Hotel del Coronado will be a magical winter-holiday destination this year. The “A Holiday Through Time” theme is a celebration of more than 135 years of holiday memories, taking guests through the eras that shaped The Del’s extraordinary legacy. 

This season’s theme brings these distinct chapters of history to life through festive decor, including themed Christmas trees representing different eras, and immersive seasonal experiences that honor the traditions, memories and magic that have defined The Del for more than a century.

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What’s new at Hotel del Coronado for Christmas 2026

Starting in late fall, Hotel del welcomes the return of the famed two-story Christmas tree in the lobby and holiday experience favorites including:

Skating by the Sea (Nov. 20-Jan. 3)

Skaters of all ages are welcome for ice skating at The Del’s iconic red turret on the hotel’s Windsor Lawn. Tickets are $35-$45 per person for general admission, with a $5 discount for hotel guests, members, military, and first responders; each Skating by the Sea session is 90 minutes.

Frostbite Lounge (Nov. 20-Jan. 3)

Cozy fire pits and luxury lounges trim the ice rink on an elevated platform where guests can relax with spectacular skating and sunset views while sipping holiday drinks and nibbling gourmet bites. 

Beachside Igloos (Nov. 20-Jan. 3)

Igloos feature a cozy living room, a roaring fire pit, ingredients for premium s’mores and a dedicated server ready to deliver holiday-themed libations and snacks.

Lightshow Spectacular (Nov. 20-Jan. 3)

The grove of towering Norfolk Island Pines on the Founders Lawn is the scene of a dynamic light show orchestrated to a holiday soundtrack. The complimentary 10-minute show takes place every 30 minutes from 5-9 p.m. nightly.

NEW: Holiday Lodge (Select Dates, Nov. 25-Jan. 3)

A festive transformation of the historic Laundry building, this new holiday experience features glittering lights, festive décor, a family-friendly pub-style menu, holiday shopping and children’s activities including cookie and stocking decorating.

Thanksgiving Dinner (Nov. 26)

The Del’s Thanksgiving buffet will be hosted in the beautifully restored Crown Room. Dine beneath soaring sugar pine ceilings and ornate chandeliers designed by Wizard of Oz author L. Frank Baum.

Holiday Movies on the Beach (Friday & Saturday nights, Nov. 20-Dec. 31)

Guests can enjoy “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” “The Polar Express,” and more classic holiday movies under the stars. Experiences can be upgraded to include a private bonfire with s’mores and plush daybed. Reservations are required.

Jingle Roast (Dec. 1-27) 

December introduces the famous Hotel Del roast experience with guest Santa hats, a cozy fire and roast holiday-themed s’mores. Reservations are required, with one pit accommodating up to 10 guests.  

Photos with Santa (Select Dates, Dec. 4-24)

Guests of all ages can capture a classic photo with Old St. Nick and receive a professionally printed image.

Elf Deliveries (Select Dates, Dec. 12-24) 

Santa’s elves deliver personalized themed bags to guest rooms filled with holiday goodies, including a stuffed animal and holiday treats. Available to overnight guests only.

Victorian Tea (Dec. 18-22)

A classic Victorian Tea for the holidays in the beautifully restored Crown Room. Visitors will sample a variety of teas, finger sandwiches and sweets. There is also a special kids’ plate so little ones can join in the experience.

Gingerbread House Decorating (Select Dates, Dec. 5-27) 

Build the ultimate gingerbread house with colorful candy décor and festive icing. The Del’s culinary team will pre-assemble the gingerbread houses so family and friends have more time to decorate.

Christmas Eve Dinner (Dec. 24)

A decadent Christmas Eve buffet dinner serves up a variety off traditional favorites in the stunning Crown and Coronet rooms.

Christmas Day Brunch (Dec. 25)

The Del welcomes guests to feast with loved ones in the beautifully restored Crown and Coronet rooms. 

Rockin’ New Year’s Eve Party at The Laundry (Dec. 31)

Rock in the New Year with an unforgettable night of music, merriment, and memories. The Del’s historic Laundry will feature a live band, a full open bar, a tantalizing array of tray-passed bites and a decadent dessert bar.

What to know before you go

When: Nov. 20, 2026-Jan. 3, 2027
Where: Hotel del Coronado, Coronado, California
Reservations: Holiday events require advance reservations and prepayment.

For more information, visit hoteldel.com/experience/holidays.