Coronado Times

Library Decorating Day
2025-12-02 15:30 - 17:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
The Children’s Holiday Ornament and Library Decorating Day is an annual Coronado Library tradition. Each year, kids make two ornaments – one for the Children’s Area tree and one to take home. This year’s ornament is a melted snowman using materials made from our 3-D Printer in the Digital Media Lab!
Kids and families can enjoy refreshments while making their ornaments and other holiday crafts. This year we will be making festive paper chains to decorate the children’s area and cookies to wear in the holiday parade. Those who would like to walk with the Library in the Holiday Parade on Friday, December 5 are welcome to join us starting at 5:30 in the Winn Room that day.

Holiday Festival at the Hotel del Coronado
2025-12-03 15:00 - 21:00 | Hotel del Coronado, 1500 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Join The Del for its annual Holiday Festival. This community event includes performances by Coronado school children, Skydiving Santa followed by photos, Skating by the Sea®, and a dazzling fireworks show.
Schedule of Events
CORONADO SCHOOL PERFORMANCES
Vista Terrace | Times TBA
Join Coronado schools as they sing holiday favorites and spread holiday cheer.
SKATING BY THE SEA
Windsor Lawn | 4-10 pm
Take an ice skating adventure on San Diego’s only beachfront ice rink.
SKYDIVING SANTA
Del Beach | 4:30 pm
Surprise and delight your little ones as Santa skydives onto Del Beach to join them for the Holiday Festival.
Courtesy photo.
PHOTOS WITH SANTA
Location TBA | 5-8 pm
Capture the magic of the holiday season with a meeting and photo with Santa himself. Santa Passes will be distributed on-site for families to secure a time slot. No online reservations for this date.
Courtesy photo
“WONDER OF OZ” LIGHTSHOW SPECTACULAR
Founders Lawn | 5-9 pm
Experience the magic as The Del’s historic pine trees are draped in a spectacular light show with a whimsical Oz-inspired soundtrack and snow flurries. The show takes place every 30 minutes.
Nighttime Christmas fireworks show at Hotel del Coronado as seen from across Glorietta Bay. Courtesy photo
FIREWORKS SHOW
Del Beach | 6:45 pm
Look to the skies over Del Beach for a dazzling fireworks display to celebrate the season.
Holiday Festival event times and details are weather permitting and may be subject to change.

Holiday card workshop
2025-12-04 10:30 - 12:00 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Learn how to create beautiful designs on thin metal sheeting in this unique and creative craft. Then turn them into festive cards, just in time for the holidays! Card artist Sylvia Hwa will show you how in this hands-on workshop.

Timeless flute journey concert
2025-12-05 13:00 - 14:00 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Experience a journey of solo flute pieces spanning different cultures and times with musician Pam Vliek Martchev. She will be featuring the flute, alto flute, and piccolo, as well as composers like Marin-Marais, Bozza, Karg-Elert, and more.

Pam Vliek Martchev served as principal flute with the Boulder Philharmonic in Colorado for 10 seasons, and has been a guest principal flutist of the San Diego Symphony, Pacific Symphony, Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra, Santa Barbara Symphony, Reno Chamber Orchestra, California Chamber Orchestra, and Long Beach Opera.
She has been featured on many chamber music series such as La Jolla Summerfest, Art of Elan, Jacaranda, Chamber Music Unbound in Mammoth, Blanco Performing Arts in Texas, the Tannahill Arts Festival in Scotland, Le Salon de Musique, Bruman at UCLA, Dilijan, and LACMA Sundays Live. She is currently a member of the woodwind quintet Presidio Winds. You may have heard her on movie soundtracks, CD recordings, television specials, and in the San Diego pit for broadway shows such as King and I, Phantom of the Opera, Wicked, and My Fair Lady.
A native of Long Island, NY, she began attending the Manhattan School of Music pre-college program at age 12, and continued another four years for her Bachelor of Music – her primary teachers were Harold Jones and Linda Chesis. During her student years, she won prizes in many competitions, was a soloist with the Long Island and Massapequa Philharmonic, and was featured on WQXR’s Young Artist Showcase.
She has been a guest teacher at the Universidad Autónoma de Baja California (UABC); University of Oregon, Eugene; University of Nevada, Reno; and Manhattan School of Music. Her students have auditioned successfully for conservatory degrees across the country, top prizes in national competitions including the NFA High School Soloist, the National Youth Orchestra, and CA All-Southern and All-State ensembles. She is a Haynes Artist, and is the flute professor at San Diego State University, Pt. Loma Nazarene University, the University of San Diego, and San Diego Summer Music Institute (SDSMI)

Holiday parade and tree lighting
2025-12-05 18:00 | CA
Get ready for Coronado’s 50th Annual Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting happening Friday, December 5 at 6 pm from 8th & Orange to RH Dana & Adella. Celebrate the golden milestone with 50+ festive parade entries, our big tree wrapped in over two miles of lights, and a special visit from Santa himself.
After the lighting, stay for the Coronado Community Band’s holiday concert in Rotary Park, the perfect way to kick off the season.
This cherished tradition is proudly presented by the Coronado Chamber of Commerce, with generous sponsorship from the City of Coronado, EDCO, California American Water, and Discover Coronado.

Coronado Philharmonia Holidays in Coronado concert
2025-12-06 19:00 - 21:00 | Coronado Performing Arts Center, 650 D Avenue, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Celebrate the holiday season with the Coronado Philharmonia at their 5th annual Holidays in Coronado Concert, taking place on Saturday, December 6 at 7 pm at the Coronado Performing Arts Center. Featuring the incredible Christopher Hollyday Jazz Quartet, this will be an unforgettable evening of music and cheer.
GET TICKETS

CIFF Student Classic Film: "Scrooge"
2025-12-07 13:00 - 15:45 | Winn Room, Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
On Sunday afternoon, Dec. 7 at 1 pm, in the Library’s Winn Room, the Coronado Island Film Festival (CIFF) Student Classic Film Series presents a special Advent movie event for the entire family, screening Scrooge, the acclaimed 1951 British Renown Studios movie adaptation of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. The screening will be followed by the first public announcement of the 2026 Student Classic Film Series “The Art of Adaptation” schedule of classic films. This Scrooge screening is a FREE event and open to the public of all ages.
Attendees are asked to please bring an unwrapped toy to the screening as part of Downtown Lions Club toy giveaway to underserved children.
Charles Dickens’ Christmas novella is, arguably, the single most adapted literary story in stage and cinematic history. A great many film critics insist that Brian Desmond Hurst’s 1951 film version has never been equaled. The screenplay by Hurst and Noel Langley (a The Wizard of Oz screenwriter) Hurst’s adroit direction, and C. M. Pennington-Richards’ haunting black and white cinematography, completely convince audiences of Scrooge’s spiritual transformation from bitter, friendless curmudgeon, into a man so overcome by gratitude and joy, simply to be alive on Christmas morning, that he finds himself gleefully shouting, “Merry Christmas!” to all within earshot; a man whose renovation of heart is so profound that many who knew, feared, or loathed him, suspect he has gone mad.
The lion’s share of credit for the film’s enduring power belongs to the extraordinary performance of Alastair Sim. Sim “inhabits” the title role, playing the miserly scenes with perfect notes of sarcastic humbug. Sim’s Scrooge is a man utterly alone and satisfied to be so; a man who has no use for other people. Sim never suggests Scrooge is an evil man, but, rather, a man whose spirit has been gravely, though not irreparably, warped by the vagaries of a difficult life. It is the subtlety and restraint Sim brings to the role that make Scrooge’s redemption in the final act believable, moving, and memorable. The final scenes of Scrooge radiating humility, warmth and delight reuniting with his family at his nephew’s Christmas party, and finally, walking the streets of London as Tiny Tim leaps into his arms are images to carry in your heart throughout the Christmas season. The entire community is invited to join us for the perfect “table setter” for Advent. As Tiny Tim reminded us, “God bless us, everyone!”
The screening will be followed by the first public announcement of the 2026 “The Art of Adaptation” schedule, screening two Golden Age classics monthly from February through May 2026. The Student Classic Series is designed to expose High School and Middle School Students to the greatest motion pictures made by the masters of the craft during The Golden Age of Hollywood (mid-30s to early 1960s). It provides a unique opportunity for Coronado’s young people to learn about the history of Hollywood’s Studio Era and the cultural legacy it bequeathed to us all.

Cookies for the holidays baking demo
2025-12-08 11:00 - 12:00 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Need ideas for your holiday baking this year? Get inspired at this fun baking demo with Chef Tommy of Big City Chefs!
Space is limited, registration is recommended. Walk-ins will be accommodated as space permits.
About Chef Tommy:
Food has been my passion for as long as I can remember! I spent a lot of my childhood helping my mom in the kitchen experimenting with flavors and learning the magic of cooking. By age sixteen, I was working as a busser soaking in the energy of a busy restaurant.
Instead of following my culinary dreams, I took a detour and instead went to college to study accounting. I received a Bachelor of Science and cruised through a successful five-year sales career. Despite my successes, I always felt I was meant for something more and decided to pursue my true calling in the restaurant world.
I kicked things off as a server in Charleston, SC before moving to San Diego, where I worked my way up to General Manager at Knotty Barrel. Along the way, I enrolled at the Institute of Culinary Education and gained experience working at Michelin-starred Gramercy Tavern in NYC, Trust and as Sous Chef at Sandpiper Wood Fired Grill & Oysters. By December 2024, I was ready to break free from the traditional kitchen grind and launched my own personal chef and catering company.
Now, I’m thrilled to be working with Big City Chefs offering catering, cooking classes and more! Whether you’re looking for an unforgettable meal or a hands-on cooking experience, I’m here to take you on a culinary adventure!

Coronado School of the Arts first annual Showcase Night
2025-12-09 18:00 | Coronado Performing Arts Center, 650 D Avenue, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
CoSA Dance Conservatory. Photo by Kel Casey, courtesy of CUSD.
Enjoy an evening of free performances, films, animations, behind the scenes documentaries of the Coronado School of the Arts (CoSA) visual art studio, and technical theatre productions on Tuesday, Dec. 9 at 6 pm in the Coronado Performing Arts Center at 650 D Avenue.

Art lovers of all ages across San Diego are encouraged to attend this fun, family friendly, and free event. Information about 2026-2027 applications for prospective CoSA students will be available in the lobby as well as information for potential Board Members, Community Supporters and Patrons of the Arts.
Conservatory of Classical and Contemporary Dance senior, Eleanor McClelland shares that she “found a group of friends and immediately felt connected to the school.” Visual Arts junior, Wendy Alcaraz, who will be sharing one of her original fashion designs at the Showcase recalls, “All the artists learn from one another and in my first year, half of my time was invested in watching others create and learning from their strengths.” Guests will have an opportunity to meet student artists, CoSA Foundation Board Members and faculty of the Coronado School of the Arts.
See why CoSA is a Life Changer.
CoSA Visual Arts Conservatory.. Photo courtesy of CUSD.
About CoSA
Coronado School of the Arts (CoSA) is San Diego County’s premier public school arts conservatory, home to 200 scholar artists grades 9 through 12, who attend the nationally ranked Coronado High School. CoSA provides an intense, pre-professional arts education to students from Coronado and from all over San Diego, who are admitted after a competitive application/audition process.
Each school day, CoSA offers approximately three hours of instruction, pairing young artists with educators who are also industry specialists. With a curriculum designed by professional artist/educators, students are immersed in their chosen specialty in one of six conservatories: Classical and Contemporary Dance, Digital Arts (Animation, Filmmaking and Graphic Design), Instrumental Music, Musical Theatre & Drama, Theatre Production, Design & Management and Visual Art. CoSA is a State of California-approved Career Technical Education program.

Crafty Hour: Upcycled paper wreaths
2025-12-09 18:30 - 19:30 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Feeling crafty? Join us on the second Tuesday of every month for arts and crafts.
In the month of December, we’ll celebrate the holidays by creating a beautiful floral wreath out of recycled paper towel rolls.
Can’t make it to this program? Check back here the day after this program is scheduled to download the instructions so you can recreate this craft at home.

Armchair Travel: Bill Altaffer, “The World’s Most Traveled Person”
2025-12-10 18:00 | John D. Spreckels Center, 1019 Seventh Street, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
This month’s Armchair Travel presentation on Wednesday, Dec. 10, features renowned world explorer Bill Altaffer, internationally known as “The World’s Most Traveled Person.” Bill will share insights and stories from his third journey to Albania since the country’s transition to democracy.
Albania has become an increasingly popular destination, appreciated for its welcoming atmosphere, dramatic landscapes, and rich, complex history. Travelers can explore striking castles, traditional towns, and significant archaeological sites, along with a coastline that is drawing attention as an emerging Mediterranean getaway.
Bill will also introduce us to Kosovo, Albania’s neighboring independent state, celebrated for its mountain scenery, natural beauty, and vibrant cultural life.
This monthly Armchair Travel program offers an engaging evening of exploration and storytelling — perfect for anyone interested in discovering new cultures and destinations. Light bites provided. Doors open at 6 pm and the presentation begins at 6:30.
The presentation takes place at the John D. Spreckels Center, located at 1019 Seventh Street. To register or learn more, visit www.coronado.ca.us/civicrec, call 619-522-7343, or stop by the Spreckels Center in person.

Coronado School of the Arts Visual Arts Conservatory "All at Once" exhibition and fashion show
2025-12-11 17:30 - 19:00 | Black Box Theater 650 D Avenue, Coronado, 92118
COSA Visual Arts. Courtesy CUSD
Come experience “All at Once,” an exhibition of original artworks, live model figure drawings and a student designed fashion show. The opening reception for the exhibit is free and open to the public on Thursday, Dec. 11 starting at 5:30 pm and closing at 7 pm in the Black Box Gallery on the Coronado High School campus, 650 D Avenue.
You won’t want to miss the fashion show which hits the runway at 6 pm.
Aspiring fashion designer and visual art student, Wendy Alcaraz collaborated with her fellow artists to design a clothing line based on artworks produced in the studio. The artworks will be projected as the artists themselves model the clothing inspired by their artworks. This year there will be digital illustrations on display. Junior Isabella Vilcans will display some prized hand-blown glass. Some of the most stunning figure drawings we have had in years will be featured in the show. The evening will also include an extensive exhibit of paintings and drawings from studio workshops as well as original bodies of artwork and a Senior Showcase highlighting choice pieces from the graduating class of 2026’s four years of study.
Come and delight in the array of creativity … All at Once!
About CoSA
Coronado School of the Arts (CoSA) is San Diego County’s premier public school arts conservatory, home to 200 scholar artists grades 9 through 12, who attend the nationally ranked Coronado High School. CoSA provides an intense, pre-professional arts education to students from Coronado and from all over San Diego, who are admitted after a competitive application/audition process.
Each school day CoSA offers three or more hours of instruction, pairing young artists with educators who are also industry specialists. With a curriculum designed by professional artist/educators, students are immersed in their chosen specialty in one of six conservatories: Classical and Contemporary Dance, Digital Arts (Animation, Filmmaking and Graphic Design), Instrumental Music, Musical Theatre & Drama, Theatre Production, Design & Management and Visual Art. CoSA is a State of California-approved Career Technical Education program.

Emerald Keepers Beach Cleanup
2025-12-13 08:00 - 10:00 | Hotel Del Beach
Emerald Keepers will be cleaning up the beach near the Hotel Del on Dec. 13. Look for the Emerald Keepers flag near the intersection of Ocean Boulevard and F Avenue.
King tides in early December bring additional trash ashore that gets trapped in the rocks and dunes. Help us clean the beach before nesting season.
Please bring gloves, pickers, and buckets if you have them.

Ride the Lights 2025
2025-12-14 16:45 | Spreckels Park, 601 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Participants will meet at Spreckels Park at 4:45 pm for the 2.5-mile bike ride. After the event, participants can enjoy cookies, cocoa, and other holiday festivities. The event is hosted by the City of Coronado Mobility Commission and sponsored by the City of Coronado, Optimist Club of Coronado, and Coronado Rotary Club.
Rules:

Obey all traffic laws
Use a front headlight and a rear reflector
Wear a helmet if under the age of 18 (highly encouraged for all ages)
Children under 13 must be accompanied at all times by an adult
Be aware of your speed, all bikes and e-bikes are required to ride safely and follow the officer leading the group

San Diego Bay Parade of Lights (1 of 2)
2025-12-14 17:30 - 19:45 | San Diego Bay, 200 Marina Park Way, San Diego, CA, 92101, United States
The 55th Annual San Diego Bay Parade of Lights will illuminate the bayfront on Dec. 14 and 21, 2025.
Photo: San Diego Bay Parade of Lights
The San Diego Bay Parade of Lights is a time-honored holiday tradition brought to San Diego by the boating community. Continuing its long-standing San Diego tradition, the 55th annual San Diego Bay Parade of Lights promises to dazzle and entertain bayfront crowds during two December evenings: Dec. 14 & 21. Participants in this year’s holiday boat parade will decorate their boats to fit this year’s theme: An Out of This World Christmas 👽🛸
The San Diego Bay Parade of Lights brings more than 100,000 San Diego residents and visitors to the shores of San Diego Bay each year. The procession of approximately 80 lavishly decorated boats will dazzle and delight. There is no cost to view the parade.
This year, for the seventh time, the parade will proceed to the pier at Cesar Chavez Park before making the turn to Coronado, giving spectators another area to view the parade.
The procession will start at 5:30 p.m. and will follow the predetermined parade route.
The APPROXIMATE arrival times of the parade at various locations are:

Shelter Island (start of parade) 5:30 p.m.
Harbor Island 5:45 – 6:15 p.m.
Seaport Village 6:20 – 6:45 p.m.
The Embarcadero 6:50 – 7:15 p.m.
The Pier at Cesar Chavez Park 7:20 – 7:30 p.m.
Ferry Landing on Coronado 7:40 p.m.

Festive wreath workshop at the Spreckels Center to kick off Spirit Week
2025-12-15 09:30 - 11:00 | John D. Spreckels Center, 1019 Seventh Street, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Sample Wreath
The John D. Spreckels Center invites the community to welcome the season with a hands-on Holiday Wreath Workshop on Monday, December 15, 9:30–11 am. Participants will craft their own 6-inch holiday door wreath—a festive decoration to brighten any home.

This workshop also launches a weeklong celebration of holiday spirit at the Spreckels Center. Throughout the week, guests are encouraged to join in fun, themed-activities and daily dress-up prompts that spread cheer and community connection. Those who participate can earn entries into the Holiday Spirit Week Raffle, with prizes awarded on Friday. To learn more about each day’s theme, guests are encouraged to call or visit the Center for details.
The wreath craft will be taught by the friendly staff at the John D. Spreckels Center, located at 1019 Seventh Street in Coronado. The cost to attend ranges from $10–$16, depending on senior discount and residency.
To register or learn more, visit www.coronado.ca.us/civicrec, call 619-522-7343, or stop by the Spreckels Center in person. Join us for creativity, community, and a joyful start to the season!

Mystery Book Club: "Playing for the Ashes"
2025-12-15 14:00 - 15:00 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
The Coronado Public Library’s Mystery Book club meets regularly on the third Monday of each month. Receive reminder emails about our meeting by registering. Registration is encouraged but not required.

This month we will be discussing Playing for the Ashes by Elizabeth George. Check out the book in print from the Coronado Library catalog by clicking here, or ebook and e-audiobook format by checking the catalogs of your Libby and CloudLibrary apps.

Best of the Best Book Club: "A Psalm for the Wild-Built" by Becky Chambers
2025-12-17 11:00 - 12:00 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
The Coronado Public Library’s Best of the Best Book Club meets regularly on the fourth Wednesday of each month to discuss books that have won major awards. Please note the different date this month due to the holiday.
For our December meeting, we will discuss the 2022 Hugo Award winner A Psalm for the Wild-Built by Becky Chambers, a novel that asks us: in a world where people have what they want, does having more matter?
Place this title on hold via our online catalog, or check out the e-book through the CloudLibrary app.

About A Psalm for the Wild-Built
It’s been centuries since the robots of Panga gained self-awareness and laid down their tools; centuries since they wandered, en masse, into the wilderness, never to be seen again; centuries since they faded into myth and urban legend.
One day, the life of a tea monk is upended by the arrival of a robot, there to honor the old promise of checking in. The robot cannot go back until the question of “what do people need?” is answered.
But the answer to that question depends on who you ask, and how.
They’re going to need to ask it a lot.

CHS interns: America250 Project presentations
2025-12-17 15:00 - 16:00 | 1000 Orange Ave, 1000 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Join the Coronado Historical Association and the Coronado Public Library for special presentations by the fall 2025 Coronado High School interns. In celebration of America’s upcoming 250th Anniversary, the interns will share their projects, which feature interviews with members of the Coronado High School Class of 1976.
This event is free and open to the public. No RSVP required. Seating is first-come, first-served.

Tween Dungeons and Dragons Club
2025-12-19 15:30 - 17:30 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
The Tween Dungeons and Dragons Club is for students aged 8-13. Beginners are welcome and Dungeon Masters are provided by The Goblin Guild.
Registration is required as we have a very limited number of seats. Walk-ins may not be accommodated.
This program is made possible by the Friends of Coronado Library.

Holiday sing-along
2025-12-20 14:00 - 15:30 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Get into the spirit of the season as the Coronado Library hosts its annual holiday sing-a-long, with warm support from the Friends of the Coronado Public Library. Led by Crown City Chorale, a subset of Coronado’s Musica Vitale, all are encouraged to bring their singing voices — and holiday bells — to this festive event. Enjoy treats of cocoa and cookies provided by the Friends as we gather for an afternoon of music, laughter, and holiday cheer!

San Diego Bay Parade of Lights (2 of 2)
2025-12-21 17:30 - 19:45 | San Diego Bay, 200 Marina Park Way, San Diego, CA, 92101, United States

Family Feud: Snowy Showdown
2025-12-30 12:30 - 13:30 | John D. Spreckels Center, 1019 Seventh Street, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Wrap Up the Season with a Festive Family Feud: Snowy Showdown at the Spreckels Center

As the holiday season comes to a close, the John D. Spreckels Center invites the community to join in one last burst of festive fun at our Family Feud: Snowy Showdown on Tuesday, December 30, from 12:30–1:30 p.m.
Four teams will be formed to face off in a friendly, fast-paced competition to guess the most popular answers to holiday-themed survey questions. Expect plenty of laughter, lighthearted rivalry, and a joyful atmosphere perfect for the season’s grand finale. While the grand prize may be “small but mighty,” the bragging rights are huge—and the fun even bigger.
This event is offered at a cheerful, budget-friendly rate, with prices ranging from $5–$9, depending on senior discount and residency.
Whether you’re competing or cheering from the audience, this snowy showdown promises a delightful hour of entertainment and community spirit.
To learn more about this event or other seasonal activities, visit www.coronado.ca.us/civicrec, call 619-522-7343, or stop by the John D. Spreckels Center at 1019 Seventh Street in Coronado. Let the holiday games begin!

Holiday Bowl Parade & Game Day 5K Run/Walk
2026-01-02 10:00 | CA
Port of San Diego welcomes you to enjoy the annual Port of San Diego Holiday Bowl Parade and Game Day 5K
Photo courtesy of David Frerker for Sports San Diego.
The Port of San Diego welcomes visitors to the Port of San Diego Holiday Bowl Parade presented by Kaiser Permanente on Friday, January 2 at 10 a.m. along the San Diego Bay waterfront.
“The parade is a wonderful way to celebrate the holidays and mark the start of a new year with marching bands, colorful balloons, festive floats, and more,” said Chair Danielle Moore, Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners. “Whether you’re in town for the game or a local resident, this family-fun and free event welcomes visitors near and far to experience and enjoy our beautiful San Diego Bay waterfront.”
This year’s parade is expected to draw more than 100,000 street-side spectators and a nationwide television audience. The parade is free to attend and watch, and the public can also choose to buy Grandstand Seating Tickets. In addition to enjoying a procession of giant balloons and local performers, parade spectators will be greeted by special guests including Port of San Diego Board Commissioner Sid Voorakkara.
The parade will be live streamed on CBS 8, and it can be viewed at holidaybowl.com. The website also has more information on the Port of San Diego Holiday Bowl Parade, including parking, parade route, grandstand tickets, volunteering, and all Holiday Bowl events.
Before the parade, thousands will also participate in the annual Game Day 5K Run/Walk taking place along the waterfront. The Port is title sponsor of the Holiday Bowl Parade and Game Day 5K Run/Walk through its Tidelands Activation Programs (TAP). TAP is an annual grant program through which the Port supports events of all sizes that engage and inspire visitors to enjoy San Diego Bay.

Learning to relax through mindfulness
2026-01-04 14:00 - 15:00 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
This winter series taught by UCSD’s Jamie Pineda will provide insights into relaxation and how to experience the mind freer from emotional reactivity. It will offer information on what mindfulness is and how to develop it to live a stress free, happier, and healthier life.
Perfect for beginners and experienced practitioners alike. Sessions begin weekly on Sundays starting Jan. 4. Attend one class or all four.

Class 1: Learning to Relax
We will explore what creates an unbalanced mind and why learning to relax is important. Most of us believe that getting rid of thoughts is the way to a calm and peaceful mind. The key is in how to do it. By allowing the mind to rest as it is, we can turn down the volume of thinking so it no longer bothers us. We call this way of attending “mindfulness.”

Jaime Pineda is professor of neuroscience, cognitive science, and psychiatry at the University of California, San Diego. He is the author of several books, the latest being Controlling Mental Chaos: Harnessing the Power of the Creative Mind (Rowman & Littlefield, 2023). He is a long-time contemplative practitioner and a certified Mindfulness Meditation Teacher (MMTCP, 2025). He now dedicates his time sharing the insights he’s learned as a neuroscientist and mindfulness student.

Vision board workshop: Positive intentions for the New Year
2026-01-06 18:00 - 19:00 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Start the year with inspiration. Set your intentions, explore your aspirations, and create a vision that reflects your hopes for the year ahead—all while connecting with others and fostering new friendships.
Vision boards are collections of images, drawings, and other visuals arranged together to represent your goals and ambitions. They serve as a source of inspiration and motivation to help you focus on your aspirations.

Ginger Lou is a mixed media artist, teacher, and creative guide who inspires others to explore their own artistic vision. She leads engaging workshops and classes, helping students unlock creativity through hands-on projects and expressive practices. In addition to teaching, Ginger Lou has created Moments of Light, a mantra, writing, and art journal that encourages daily reflection and creative expression.

A passionate explorer of California’s natural beauty, she also designs a line of one-of-a-kind jewelry featuring ancient abalone and pressed flowers, as well as a boutique clothing line inspired by her photography and collage art. Her work blends history, nature, and personal expression into pieces that are as meaningful as they are visually captivating.

Discover more of her work and creative offerings at linktr.ee/gingerlouart.

Poetry for the People
2026-01-07 11:00 - 12:00 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
This year’s course will feature poems by state poets laureate. The responsibility of a State Poet Laureate is essentially the same as the U.S Poets Laureate, “…to make public appearances at poetry readings or literary events and to promote awareness of poetry.” 46 states and the District of Columbia have a State Poet Laureate, most appointed for a one or two-year term.
Those participating in Poetry For The People XXlll will read selections from these State Poet Laureates and, most importantly, are encouraged to bring to the discussions their own insights, observations and perceptions. Class members’ contributions are a vital part of the class experience.

Chuck Kamar received his bachelor’s from Boston State and his master’s from Boston University. He taught for 34 years in the Newton Public Schools, the last 20 of which were at Newton North High School. In 1998 he won the Paul E. Elicker Award for Excellence in Teaching.

Register to receive reminder emails for this series. Registration is encouraged, but not required.

FILM FORUM CORONADO: "East of Eden" (1955)
2026-01-07 18:00 - 21:00 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Coronado Public Library, in partnership with the Coronado Island Film Festival, presents FILM FORUM CORONADO, taking place the first and third Wednesday of each month at 6:00 p.m. in the library’s Winn Room. Film expert Ralph DeLauro provides a brief introduction to each film and leads a discussion afterwards, often including pointers about how lighting or camera angles contribute to a scene’s mood or propel the story.
January 7: East of Eden (1955, PG, 115min)
James Dean’s electrifying screen debut highlights this feverishly poetic retelling of Cain and Abel. A rebellious son (Dean), along with his competitive brother, vie for the affection of their stern father (Raymond Massey). Co-starring Burl Ives, Julie Harris and Jo Van Fleet.

New Year, Healthy Family: A free wellness presentation
2026-01-08 17:00 - 18:00 | Coronado Community Center, 1845 Strand Way, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Kick off the new year with healthy habits for the whole family. Join us for a FREE Healthy Lifestyle Presentation on Thursday, January 8, from 5–6 p.m. at the Community Center, presented by medical professionals from Sharp Coronado Hospital. This informative workshop is designed for parents and focuses on simple, practical ways to improve nutrition, boost physical activity, support better sleep, and manage stress — all while modeling healthy choices for your children at home. Parents will leave with helpful tools and strategies to inspire lasting, positive lifestyle changes for their family.
To make it easy to attend, children’s activities will be available in a separate room from 4:45–6:15 p.m. for ages 5–12. Start the year feeling informed, motivated, and supported — space is limited, so plan to attend.

The Hive of Five: Historical fiction author event
2026-01-08 18:30 - 19:30 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
One incredible night, five New York Times bestselling historical fiction authors.

Kate Quinn (The Astral Library), Stephanie Dray (Becoming Madam Secretary), Kristina McMorris (The Girls of Good Fortune), Allison Pataki (It Girl), and Madeline Martin (The Secret Book Society) will come together to share the research, revelations, and hidden histories that bring their novels to life, offering readers a rare glimpse into the past through their collective expertise. After their discussion, a Q&A and book signing will follow.
This event is free and open to the public. Seating is first-come, first-served, subject to availability. Limited preferred seating is available with purchase of the newest release of one of the authors through Adventures by the Book. Please visit https://adventuresbythebook.com/calendar-event/history-hive-1-8-26/ for more information.

Kate Quinn is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of historical fiction whose work spans ancient Rome, the Italian Renaissance, and most recently the 20th century with hits like The Alice Network, The Huntress, The Rose Code, The Diamond Eye, and The Briar Club. A native of Southern California with degrees in Classical Voice from Boston University, she now lives in Maryland with her husband and rescue dogs. Her upcoming novel, The Astral Library (February 2026), offers a fantastical adventure inviting readers into a world where books become portals to new lives and limitless possibilities.

Stephanie Dray is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author known for richly researched historical novels such as The Women of Chateau Lafayette, My Dear Hamilton, and America’s First Daughter. Her award-winning work on the often-overlooked Founding Mothers has been translated into eight languages. Based in Maryland with her husband, cats, and a home full of history books, she recently released Becoming Madam Secretary, about trailblazing labor secretary Frances Perkins, and will soon publish A Founding Mother, an intimate portrait of Abigail Adams timed to the nation’s 250th anniversary.

Kristina McMorris is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author of ten historical works, including the million-copy bestseller Sold on a Monday and the international bestseller The Ways We Hide, a top Target pick of 2022. A recipient of more than twenty national awards and a former television host who began her career at age nine, she now divides her time between San Diego and Oregon, where she’s raising two collegiate sons. Her latest novel, The Girls of Good Fortune, explores family, identity, and buried histories tied to Portland’s mysterious Shanghai Tunnels.

Allison Pataki is a New York Times bestselling author of numerous historical novels—including Finding Margaret Fuller, The Magnificent Lives of Marjorie Post, and The Queen’s Fortune—as well as a memoir and children’s books, with her work translated into more than 24 languages. A former news writer and producer, she has contributed to major media outlets and appeared on national television programs. A Yale graduate and certified yoga instructor, she lives in New York with her family. Her forthcoming novel, It Girl (March 2026), chronicles the dramatic rise of America’s original “It Girl.”

Madeline Martin is a New York Times and internationally bestselling author of historical fiction and romance, including The Booklover’s Library, The Keeper of Hidden Books, and The Librarian Spy, with her novels translated into more than 25 languages. Living in Florida with her family and two spoiled cats, she credits her love of history to her upbringing as an Army brat in Germany. Her newest release, The Secret Book Society, a USA Today bestseller, transports readers to Victorian London for a tale of a forbidden book club, dangerous secrets, and brave women defying convention.
