Coronado Times

Shop Small - Small Business Saturday
2025-11-29 | CA
Small Business Saturday is a community and family event that gives residents and visitors extra incentives to go out and visit all of their favorite places.
Small Business Saturday in Coronado is a vital occasion that encourages support of the unique local shops and services that define our charming island community. On this special day, shoppers can explore the distinctive boutiques, art galleries, and eateries that offer everything from handcrafted gifts to delicious treats, showcasing the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of Coronado’s small business owners. Supporting these local establishments not only helps boost the economy but also fosters a strong sense of community, allowing residents to connect with their neighbors and celebrate the character of our town. By choosing to shop local on Small Business Saturday, we can ensure that Coronado remains vibrant and thriving, making it a truly special place to live and visit.
Coronado MainStreet is providing prizes of an Electra Bike donated by Hollands Bicycles, $100, and $50 in Coronado Cash, for five lucky shoppers. There will be entertainment at various spots during the day and some stores will offer surprises of their own.
Emerald Keepers will be offering sustainable gift wrapping using recyclable and compostable material. If you’re out shopping, be sure to stop by the gift-wrapping station at Rotary Plaza on Orange Avenue.
To be eligible for a prize, turn in your Shop Small passport at the Coronado MainStreet table in Rotary Park between 11 am and 3 pm on Nov. 29 for a chance to win.

Family coed beach volleyball tournament
2025-11-30 | Coronado Central Beach, 600 Ocean Boulevard, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
The California Beach Volleyball Association (CBVA) will host its annual Thanksgiving family coed beach volleyball tournament at Coronado’s Central Beach on Nov. 30.
It’s a great way to work off that Thanksgiving dinner.
There are several divisions:

Father/Daughter 18U, 16U, 14U & 12U
Mother/Daughter 18U & 14U
Father/Son 18U & 14U

Already 51 families have signed up. Families interested in participating can enter at CBVA.com.

Makers Monday: Yarn wrapped forest
2025-12-01 15:30 - 16:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Coronado Public Library presents: Yarn Wrapped Forest
Winter has arrived! San Diego may not have wintery forests, but you can make your own at the library. Use yarn and liquid starch to make a forest of whimsical wintery trees.

Library Decorating Day
2025-12-02 15:30 - 17:00 | 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.

Inside the Hanoi Hilton: The Story of POW Doug Hegdahl
2025-12-03 11:00 - 12:00 | Zoom, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
The Coronado Public Library and Historical Association invites you to a virtual event on Wednesday, Dec. 3 as Marc Leepson, the author of the best-selling book, The Unlikely War Hero: A Vietnam War POW’s Story of Courage and Resilience in the Hanoi Hilton, discusses the amazing Vietnam War story of Doug Hegdahl, the youngest and lowest-ranking POW captured in North Vietnam and held in Hanoi.
This event will take place via Zoom. Register through the “Register Now” button below to receive the Zoom link for this event.
Register Now
“What a strange, fascinating, and ultimately powerful account of one man’s endurance of life as a POW during the American war in Vietnam . . . This book, I believe, will stand the test of time as one of the finest nonfiction narratives to emerge from the Vietnam War.” —Tim O’Brien, author of The Things They Carried

Journalist and historian Marc Leepson is the author of eleven books, including four biographies: What So Proudly We Hailed: Francis Scott Key, A Life; Lafayette: Idealist General; The Ballad of the Green Beret; and The Unlikely War Hero. A former staff writer for Congressional Quarterly in Washington, D.C., he written for many newspapers and magazines, and the Encyclopedia Britannic, and has been interviewed many times on radio and television, including on The Today Show, Discovery Channel, The History Channel, All Things Considered, Morning Edition, and The BBC NewsHour. He is Senior Writer, Arts Editor and columnist for The VVA Veteran, the magazine published by Vietnam Veterans of America, and taught U.S. history at Laurel Ridge Community College in Warrenton, Va. from 2008-15.
Marc Leepson graduated from George Washington University in 1967. After serving in the U.S. Army from 1967-69, including a year in the Vietnam War, he received his honorable discharge and went on to earn a Master’s Degree in history from George Washington in 1971. He lives in Loudoun County, Virginia.

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.

Sweet seasonal baking at the Spreckels Center
2025-12-05 11:00 - 12:30 | John D. Spreckels Center, 1019 Seventh Street, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Celebrate the season with us at the John D. Spreckels Center during a special hands-on holiday baking class. Instructors Naomi and Norma will guide participants through three festive favorites: a warm and fragrant Coffee Crumble Loaf, a decadent Creamy Biscoff Cake, and delicate, melt-in-your-mouth Mexican Wedding Cookies.
Learn new techniques, explore delicious seasonal recipes, and head home with a plate of freshly baked goods. Perfect for enjoying or sharing with loved ones. Senior and resident discounts are available. Space is limited, and registration is required at least 48 hours in advance.
To register or learn more, visit www.coronado.ca.us/civicrec, call 619-522-7343, or stop by the Spreckels Center in person at 1019 Seventh St.

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.

Artisans Alley
2025-12-06 09:00 - 15:00 | Village Elementary School, 600 6th Street, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
The 52nd annual Coronado Artisans Alley Craft Fair includes a wide selection of more than 150 vendors selling homemade crafts and unique holiday gifts, food vendors, and live performances by the Coronado Elementary, Middle and High School Bands and Choirs!
All proceeds from the fair support the Coronado Band & Choir Boosters.
Donation suggested upon entry, which includes a raffle ticket.
Additional raffle tickets available for purchase.
All vendors donate an item to be raffled.
Entrance on H Avenue.

Concert Schedule
(Subject to Change)

10 am CMS BEGINNING BAND
10:30 am CMS ADVANCED BAND
11 am CHS BAND
11:30 am CMS MUSICAL THEATRE AND CHOIR
12 pm SILVER STRAND CHOIR

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!

Makers Monday: Sculpt a poinsettia
2025-12-08 15:30 - 16:30 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Come play with some clay! This bimonthly program provides two chances to create a work of art using quick dry clay. This month, Ms. Wendy will be guiding you in creating a poinsettia. *
* This program is geared towards kids aged 7 and up. Kids under 7 will require additional parental assistance and may find the class challenging.
There is a 10 minute window for arrival. If you do not arrive within 10 minutes of the program starting, your spot may be given away based on demand.

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.

Santa Storytime
2025-12-12 11:00 - 12:00 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Bring your littles ones for a special Santa Storytime! Join Santa for a story followed by a photo meet and greet opportunity with the big guy himself.

Relaxing sound bath experience
2025-12-12 12:00 - 13:00 | John D. Spreckels Center and Bowling Green, 1019 7th Street, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Experience deep relaxation as soothing sound vibrations help you unwind, release tension, and reconnect with your inner peace. This all-levels sound healing session uses crystal singing bowls, chimes, and other calming instruments to support your nervous system and restore balance. Please bring a yoga mat, blanket, or pillow for comfort; chairs are available for seated options. Arrive early to settle in — doors close promptly at 12 p.m. to honor the peaceful space we create together.

Grinch Goo-tastic Kids Night Out holiday workshop
2025-12-12 17:00 - 20:00 | Coronado Community Center, 1845 Strand Way, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Coronado Recreation is gearing up for an evening of merry mischief, gooey creations, and festive cheer with their second annual Grinch Goo-tastic Kids Night Out on Friday, December 12, from 5 to 8 pm. This unique event, designed especially for children ages 6–11, promises a night of frolicking, fun, and festivities that your kids won’t want to miss.
Grinch enthusiasts will make their very own Grinch Slime, decorate holiday cookies, and create Grinch Crafts. There will be pizza, many games, and crazy, crazy contests.
Participants are encouraged to wear their favorite holiday jammies, adding an extra dose of Grinch-tacularity to the night. With so many activities packed into three fun-filled hours, the Grinch Goo-tastic Kids Night Out offers the perfect way for children to celebrate the season while parents enjoy a well-deserved evening break.
Space is limited, so register today for a goo-tastic good time! Call 619-522-7342 or go to coronado.ca.us.
Direct Link: https://bit.ly/GrinchKidsNightOutDec12

Threads of Resilience: Celebrating human resilience through dance
2025-12-12 19:00, 2025-12-13 19:00 | Coronado Performing Arts Center, 650 D Avenue, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Photo courtesy CUSD
The Coronado School of the Arts (CoSA) Conservatory of Classical and Contemporary Dance invites audiences to Threads of Resilience, a powerful showcase of original dance works that explore personal transformation and strength. The concert takes the stage Dec. 12 and 13 at 7pm at the Coronado Performing Arts Center at 650 D Avenue. Tickets are available at www.cosafoundation.org/events.
“Adversity and resilience are innate to the human experience,” said Caryn Ipapo-Glass, COSA Dance Director. “In times of divisiveness and polarity it can be difficult to hold on to empathy, or to remember that we collectively have lived experiences that unify us. Our journeys may be vastly different, but joy, fear, love, and loss are universal; and the opportunity for personal growth is always present. Cathartic connection is one of the most powerful aspects of dance, and one of the things I love most about it. When artists are brave enough to share, and audiences are brave enough to be present and to feel, that is when powerful human connections are made.”
This remarkable concert features 10 original dance works, choreographed by both faculty and student artists, and will also include six innovative short dance films that push the boundaries of artistic expression; featuring “Resilience Poems” written by several of the COSA Dance students.
Each dance piece represents a deeply personal narrative, capturing moments of profound life experiences where individuals have confronted adversity and emerged transformed. The choreographers explore themes of resilience, personal growth, and the human spirit’s remarkable capacity to overcome challenges.

“This concert marks my first artistic endeavor with my COSA Dance students and colleagues. Transition in and of itself can be adverse. With it comes a great deal of uncertainty, vulnerability, and required trust. It has been an absolute honor to work within this collective of students and colleagues and I am tremendously grateful for the opportunity we were given to come together to thread and weave our lived experiences, and to witness the impact of our collective resilience,” said Ipapo-Glass.
For more information about this compelling evening of dance, visit CoSASanDiego.com.
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.

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.

Musical storytime takeover with Nightingale Music
2025-12-16 11:00 - 11:30 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Enjoy a special storytime takeover by Nightingale Music. We’ll play with lollipop drums, rainbow scarves, tambourines, maracas and more. Marvin the Monkey will come by and teach us the major scale and we’ll learn to stomp and dance like the elephants in the jungle. We’ll pop bubbles to the beat and have a guitar time sing-a-long. Nightingale Music classes bring out your child’s natural ability for music and create a relaxed, playful environment for learning, so don’t miss the fun Tuesday, December 16 at 11 am.
Toddler storytime will resume as normal after this fun takeover.
