Before saying Arrivederci! to the year, Little Italy is celebrating every last bit of 2024 with festive happenings. From shopping local to donating toys for a charitable cause and above all, celebrating the 25th Annual Little Italy Tree Lighting & Christmas Village, this charming neighborhood is brimming with exciting things to do with friends, family and the community!
Shop local, shop Little Italy!
‘Tis the season to shop local, amici! The neighborhood is packed with small businesses offering everything from unique gifts, stylish clothing and home décor to specialty imported Italian items. Kicking off on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, the Small Business Season is the perfect time to discover this vibrant shopping and dining community. Whether you’re hosting family this time of the year or hunting for distinctive holiday presents, Little Italy’s local shops have everything you need. This year, show your support for the businesses that help make this neighborhood such a lively and cultural gem.
Little Italy Tree Lighting & Christmas Village
Join the celebration as Little Italy marks the 25th Anniversary of its Annual Little Italy Tree Lighting & Christmas Village on Saturday, Dec. 7 from 4 to 8 p.m. What started in 1999 as a small community event has since grown into one of San Diego’s favorite holiday traditions. Over the years, it exploded into a grand spectacle, featuring dazzling lights, towering nutcrackers, and a Christmas Village filled with holidaymakers and vendors.
The highlight of the evening will be the Tree Lighting Ceremony at 6:30 p.m. in Piazza della Famiglia, where both the classic 25-foot tree and Joshua Hubert’s enchanting Aurora Tree will be illuminated. Visitors can also enjoy a special visit from Santa Claus, live entertainment, and plenty of holiday-themed bites and sips. Stretching along India Street between W. Cedar and W. Grape Streets, the Christmas Village offers an ideal chance to shop for unique gifts and support the neighborhood’s local businesses.
Little Italy Toy Drive
Spread joy this holiday season by contributing to the Little Italy Association’s Toy Drive, benefiting New Alternatives, Inc. through Dec. 18th, you can drop off new, unwrapped toys at participating Little Italy businesses. With over 6,000 toys donated in previous years, this annual effort aims to bring even more happiness to children in need. This year, donation boxes come with a QR code that links directly to a foster child’s wish list. By visiting New Alternatives’ Amazon Holiday Gift Registry, you can select a gift that will be shipped directly to the organization, ensuring every child experiences a Buona Natale filled with joy.
These events not only bring the magic of the holiday season to life but also foster a sense of insieme (togetherness) that strengthens the Little Italy community. By supporting local businesses and participating in the festivities, visitors and residents alike can contribute to the vibrant culture that makes the neighborhood so unique. It’s through these shared traditions that Little Italy continues to thrive as a cherished gathering place in San Diego. The Little Italy Association wishes everyone a Buon Natale!
