Illustration of felt carolers in red coats and hats holding songbooks and lanterns beside a snowman on snowy steps (Carols by Candlelight)

Carols by Candlelight

Attendees experience a family Christmas concert featuring live performances of country hits and seasonal holiday songs by headline artists. Alongside the musical entertainment, the benefit includes silent and live auctions as well as raffle prize giveaways. Net proceeds from the event directly support pediatric healthcare at Rady Children's Hospital in San Diego.

Map It Details Official site

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Plan Your Visit

When

Ages

All ages

Going?

Location

Poway Center for the Performing Arts · 15498 Espola Rd, Poway, CA 92064 Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 ⚪ (4/5)

Best For

Families and country music fans

Vibe

Festive and heartfelt

Energy Level

Low

Photo Friendly

Low

Tips & Advice

  • Order early if you want VIP Lower Orchestra seats, since the best seats left are assigned when you buy and you can ask for close or centered.
  • Watch your mailbox about two weeks before the concert, because tickets ordered online are sent by mail.
  • Be sure of your date before you order, since all ticket sales are final with no refunds or exchanges.
  • Think about adding a Ticket for a Hero, which goes free to first responders and active-duty military and their families for the holidays.
  • Plan to join the live and silent auctions or the raffle, since the net proceeds from the concert go to Rady Children's Hospital.

Special Events & Promotions

  • 2026 headliners: Deana Carter, Maddie Font (of Maddie & Tae), Anna Vaus, and Eve Selis with Back to the Garden
  • Ticket for a Hero: buy a ticket that's given free to first responders and active-duty military

Links & Contact

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

Who is performing this year?

The 2026 headliners are Deana Carter, Maddie Font (of Maddie & Tae), Anna Vaus, Eve Selis with Back to the Garden, and founder Steve Vaus. They sing country hits and holiday songs.

Is it suitable for families?

Yes, Carols by Candlelight is a family Christmas concert.

Is there anything besides the music?

Yes. Every concert has live and silent auctions plus raffle prizes, and the net proceeds benefit Rady Children's Hospital in San Diego.

How does seating work?

VIP Lower Orchestra seats are in the first 15 rows, and you can ask for close or centered. Orchestra seats are on the main floor from row 16 back. The best seats available when you order are chosen for you and mailed two weeks before the show.

What is a Ticket for a Hero?

It's a ticket you buy that's given free to first responders and active-duty military to say thank you and brighten the holidays for them and their families.

Browse Christmas in Poway

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.

Contributors & Updates

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