Balboa Park December Nights

Balboa Park December Nights, the nation’s premier holiday festival, will take place on Friday, December 2, 3 p.m. to 11 p.m., and Saturday, December 3, noon to 11 p.m. Participating Balboa Park museums (including the Fleet Science Center!) open their doors free of charge from 5 to 9 p.m. both evenings. The Fleet opens both days at 10 a.m. with regular admission prior to 5 p.m.

As always, the event brings families and friends together to spread holiday joy, enjoy merriment in Balboa Park and kick-off the “most wonderful time of the year.”

Those who attend will participate in a truly multicultural experience, enjoying food, music and entertainment from around the world.

Visit Balboa Park December Nights for more information.

December Nights at the Fleet

The Fleet Science Center will be open 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on December 2 and 3. Regular admission prices apply until 5 p.m. each day. Starting at 5 p.m., exhibit gallery admission is free. 

December Nights at the Fleet includes:

• Fun for all ages with 100+ hands-on exhibits.

• Live Tesla coil demonstrations every hour, starting at 5:30 p.m.

• Create a Tiny Cardboard Gingerbread House to take home in Studio X, while supplies last.

• Dance party for the entire family in our upstairs galleries. 

• A photo opportunity with the Fleet's own Antarctica penguin.

• Stellar holiday shopping at the North Star Science Store, with a selection of delightfully nerdy gifts you won't find anywhere else.

Please note: The skating rink will be closed on Friday and Saturday, December 2 and 3, during December Nights.

 Don't miss The Black Hole Lounge by Craveology!

This indoor escape is the perfect spot to get lost in! 

• Enjoy local craft beers and wine

• Indulge with food from Craveology

• Take part in interesting conversations with Two Scientists Walk Into a Bar

• Play fun board games available for you and your friends and family.

Come join us for all the festive holiday fun!

Parking and Transportation Information

The Fleet's main parking lot will be open to disabled parking ONLY all day Friday and Saturday (December 2 and 3). The nearest public parking will be at Inspiration Point or the San Diego Zoo. Find out about all of your December Nights parking and transportation options here, including free and paid parking, public transit, shuttles and more.