Celebrate the Holiday Season in the Heart of the Village!

The holiday season is one of the most festive times of the year in Carlsbad Village, and the Carlsbad Village Association is inviting you to join in the fun. From shopping local and supporting small businesses to enjoying twinkling window displays and live music under filled with holiday cheer, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this season.

Small Business Saturday | November 29, 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Spend the day in downtown Carlsbad and celebrate the Shop Small movement in style. Enjoy live music, a scavenger hunt, tasty treats, and free tote bags while supplies last. Come early and stay all day and have multiple chances to win restaurant and retail gift cards given away every half hour starting at 11:30am. You could win a $100 gift card to Campfire or a $50 gift card to Handel's Ice Cream. There are retail gift cards from Aranelle, Jayden Presleigh Salon, Village Faire Shopping Center, and so many more. Over $2,000 will be up for grabs on the Gift Card Giveaway Tree. Check in at the booth at the corner of Grande Ave. and State St. on November 29th starting at 11:00am for your free, no purchase necessary door prize ticket. Discover local favorites, meet business owners, and feel the Village energy all while kicking off the holiday season.

Holiday Window Decorating Contest | December 3–December 16

Carlsbad Village is lighting up with creativity! Local shops are transforming their windows into festive works of art. You will start to see them pop up the weekend of Small Business Saturday. Take a stroll through downtown and admire the dazzling displays . . . then it's time to vote for your favorite! Each window will have a QR Code to the online ballot so that you can cast a vote for "People's Choice." The winning shop will receive $250 to a restaurant in the Village for a team gathering, will receive a free 1/4 page ad from Carlsbad Magazine, and will also be featured in the January issue of Carlsbad Magazine, this year's sponsor. It’s a great way to support local businesses and get into the holiday spirit.

Musical Kickoff to the Holidays | December 5, starting at 4:00 pm

Ring in the season with a joyful evening of music in the Village. The Carlsbad Village Association is turning the parking lot at the corner of Grand Ave. and State St. into a musical venue for the night! Enjoy performances from Carlsbad Unified’s talented middle and high school choir and orchestra students, including the Carlsbad High School Holiday Jazz Band. Local soloists will also share holiday tunes with you as you warm up with hot cocoa and cookies at our treat station. Join us and let the music fill you with holiday cheer.

The holidays are brighter when celebrated together. Come experience the charm, creativity, and community spirit that make Carlsbad Village the perfect place to celebrate the season. Stay tuned for more details as these events draw nearer.