Holiday at the Rancho Event
Guests can explore the historic park illuminated with seasonal lights and festive decorations, including a festival of trees in the barn. Activities include holiday cookie decorating, crafts, a plush snowball fight, face painting, train rides, and a visit from Santa. An outdoor movie screen features a holiday film, alongside live musical performances and a tree lighting by the pool.
Sat, Dec 5, 2026 All ages
See more other Christmas activities near Carlsbad
Plan Your Visit
Tickets
All activities and entertainment are included with admission. Food, beverages, and souvenir photos are available for an additional charge.
Hours
5 to 8 p.m.; holiday tree lighting at 6 p.m.; holiday movie starts at 6:15 p.m.
Food & Drink
Food and beverages are available for an additional charge.
Parking
Parking is at Carrillo Elementary School (2875 Poinsettia Lane), with access to Carrillo Rancho through the school campus.
Location
Tips & Advice
- Buy tickets in the presale, which closes the day before, because tickets at the door are sold only until the event sells out.
- Register every child, including kids three and under who get in free, and set up a Carlsbad Connect account first since one is required.
- Park at Carrillo Elementary School on Poinsettia Lane and walk through the school campus to reach the ranch.
- Head to the sand near the pool for the tree lighting, then stay for the holiday film that starts right after on the outdoor screen.
- Bring extra spending money for food, drinks and souvenir photos, since those cost extra while all activities are included with admission.
Links & Contact
Run by City of Carlsbad Parks & Recreation
Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their website.
Frequently Asked Questions
What activities are included?
Admission includes cookie decorating, crafts, a plush snowball fight, face painting, train rides, festive entertainment, an outdoor movie and a visit from Santa. You can also see the festival of trees in the barn and the Holiday Gift Boutique.
Is there food and drink?
Yes. Food, drinks and souvenir photos are sold separately.
Where do we park?
Park at Carrillo Elementary School on Poinsettia Lane. You reach the ranch through the school campus.
Do little kids need to register?
Yes. Children 3 and under get in free, but they still need to be registered. You need a Carlsbad Connect account to register.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The event may be changed or canceled in bad weather.
Browse Christmas in Carlsbad
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.