The most wonderful time of the year is finally here! Holiday lights are up, the smell of fresh pine is in the air and families and friends are coming together to celebrate and relax. Our holiday traditions build bonds and reinvigorate a sense of giving in the community. 

With activities for the whole family, decorations, and Santa – what’s not to love? Here are some  great ways to jump in and experience the magic of the holidays in Carlsbad this December:

Cape Rey: Festive Countdown to Christmas

Cape Rey Carlsbad Beach, a Hilton Resort and Spa, is spreading the cheer this holiday season with five full days of celebration. Resort guests and locals can join in this countdown to Christmas! All activities are held from 4 p.m.-7 p.m at the resort. 

On Monday, December 19, the Cape Rey lobby will be full of live holiday music performed in the lobby, complimentary hot cocoa and snacks at the ‘Buy One for Santa, Get One for Elf’ Holiday Happy Hour.

Tuesday, December 20 will feature ‘Ugly Sweaters & Pretty Ornaments’ where guests can decorate ornaments and holiday cards while enjoying hot cocoa and cookies. Santa has been invited to take pictures with the kids.

On Wednesday, December 21 , there will be a movie night, showing the holiday classic  “A Christmas Story”. Guests can wear their favorite Christmas pajamas and enjoy hot cocoa and  flavored popcorn while watching the movie in the ballroom.

Thursday, December 22 will be ‘Cookie Decorating & Letters to Santa’. Sugar cookies will be provided with all the materials needed to craft the perfect letter to Santa. Santa’s mailbox will be on display to make sure letters are delivered before Christmas. Complimentary hot cocoa will be served.

Lastly, on Friday, December 23, the air will be full of holiday cheer with ‘Carolers & Cocktails’. This night, suited for adults, will serve up a prix fixe small bites menu and holiday cocktails as carolers stroll through the lobby.

Cape Rey is located at 1 Ponto Rd., in Carlsbad. Phone (760) 683-5500.

Park Hyatt Aviara: Cabana Christmas Village, Teddy Bear Tea 

This year at the Park Hyatt Aviara Resort, Golf Club & Spa, the holidays are all about ambience. The inaugural year of the Cabana Christmas Village embraces all of the holiday feels. The Splash Pool will transform into a winter wonderland with crafts, carolers and visits from Santa. Cabanas will offer family-fun activities including ornament making and cookie decorating. These activities are free and open to resort guests and the public. The Cabana Christmas Village will be open until Saturday, December 31 from 2 p.m. – 6 p.m. daily. Also indulge in holiday-themed food and beverage offerings at the pool. 

Snap a photo with Santa on the following dates from 2 p.m. – 4 p.m.:

Saturday, December 10

Wednesday, December 14 

Saturday, December 17 

Wednesday, December 21 

Saturday, December 24

In addition to the Cabana Christmas Village, Park Hyatt Aviara will be hosting two holiday- themed tea events – the Teddy Bear Tea will feature entertainment from the Peppermint Princess; High Tea will offer traditional tea service with holiday-themed food throughout the month. 

Park Hyatt Aviara is at 7100 Aviara Resort Drive in Carlsbad. Phone (760) 448-1234.

Omni La Costa: Snow Days, Santa, S’mores and More 

When you think about Christmas in Southern California, you probably don’t think about snow. At the Omni La Costa Resort and Spa, guests can experience a rare Southern California ‘snow day’ all throughout the month of December. Each of the Omni La Costa’s restaurants will be participating with snow events at VUE, Bar Traza, Bob’s Steak & Chop House and outside around the firepits. 

After the snowfall, the Omni La Costa will be warming up with a cozy family Poinsettias and Pancakes brunch on Sunday, December 18 from 8 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Brunch will star jolly Old Saint Nick, the Poinsettia Princess and other fun characters. Enjoy photos with Santa, family-friendly activities and delicious holiday favorites.

But that’s not all. The Omni La Costa also has a full month of holiday activities planned including Home for the Holidays meal boxes, Holiday Artisan Markets, spa specials, seasonal fireside s’mores and more.

Omni La Costa Resort and Spa is at 2100 Costa Del Mar Road in Carlsbad. Phone (760) 438-9111.

Sheraton and Westin Carlsbad Resort: Holiday Nights Family Fun

Nighttime is when the holidays really come to life. Holiday lights brighten the sky, and the chilly weather keeps everyone together to stay warm. At the Westin Carlsbad Resort & Spa and Sheraton Carlsbad Resort & Spa, Holiday Nights from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday, December 18 will feature all of the traditional favorites – from carolers and live music to holly trolley rides, stocking decorating, pictures with Santa and complimentary hot cocoa. The cost is $8 per activity or $20 for all.

The Westin Carlsbad Resort & Spa is at 5480 Grand Pacific Drive and the Sheraton Carlsbad is at 5420 Grand Pacific Drive. 

The Forum Carlsbad: Winter Wonderlights, Santa Letter Writing and Chanukah 

As the holidays approach, it’s time to ‘shop ‘till you drop’. At The Forum Carlsbad, shopping is more than just spending money – it’s an experience. During the holiday season, the Forum Carlsbad is filling the month of December with activities to countdown to Christmas.

The Forum Carlsbad will feature a Winter Wonderlights, a festive light show with a magical snowfall, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, December 16 and Saturday, December 17. From 4:30pm to 6 p.m. on Wednesday, December 21, join Chabad La Costa for a Chanukah Celebration with a Lighting of the Menorah in the Courtyard. There will be games for children and complimentary refreshments.

On Saturdays and Sundays (through Sunday, December 18), Santa will be visiting the Forum through Sunday, December 18 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.in the Garden Area. Through Friday, December 23, children can drop their wish lists and letters to Santa in a special mailbox outside of Geppetto’s. The elves at The Forum will make sure the letters are delivered to the North Pole!

The Forum Carlsbad is at 1923 Calle Barcelona in Carlsbad. Phone (760) 479-0166. 

The Shoppes at Carlsbad: Pictures with Santa and the Gift of Giving 

One of the most joyful things you can do during the holidays is to share your blessings with gifts and acts of service. The Shoppes at Carlsbad are taking the joy of giving seriously, partnering with Feeding America to help support communities with the gift of food during the holidays.

Through Saturday, December 24, if you spend $200 or more at participating retailers, a $20 donation will be made to a local food bank through Feeding America. Shop for loved ones and also snap a photo with Santa who will be at The Shoppes at Carlsbad through Saturday, December 24 before he leaves back to the North Pole. Book a time with Santa online  and also receive a call from Santa too! 

The Shoppes at Carlsbad is at 2525 El Camino Real in Carlsbad. Phone (760) 444-0620. 

Plaza Paseo Real: Enjoy a Holiday Spectacular 

We know that the holidays are spectacular, but at Plaza Paseo Real, the ‘Spectacular’ comes to life! On Sunday, December 11  from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m, Paseo Paseo Real will be hosting a special event featuring a special visit from Santa. Celebrate the season with lots of family fun by taking photos with Santa, making holiday crafts, balloon art, face painting and much more. 

Plaza Paseo Real is at 6941-6985 El Camino Real in Carlsbad. 

LEGOLAND: Experience the Jolliest Time of the Year

LEGOLAND is a mecca of fun all year round. During the holidays, LEGOLAND lights up until Sunday, January 8 to celebrate the jolliest time of the year throughout the entire park and resort. Meet your favorite holiday characters, check out the LEGO Christmas tree with over 400 LEGO ornaments, a holiday light show with falling “snow”  and enjoy seasonal treats and shows throughout the park. Get  your ticket now to start planning your visit!

LEGOLAND California Resort  is at One Legoland Drive in Carlsbad. Phone (888) 690-5346. 

Carlsbad Village: Interact with a Unique Holiday Light Installation

Experience pathways and color play on State Street in Carlsbad Village from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. nightly from Saturday, December 10 to Monday, December 26. Pop Up Art: Colors of the Season, a unique and innovative temporary public art installation, will bring the colors of the season to the Village. 

The installation, by artist Lauren LeVieux, is an interactive experience that changes over the five-hour period each night. Depending where you are experiencing the installation, the scene and colors can be different. Located on the east side of the 2900 block of State Street, close to Grand Avenue, the light play will illuminate and transform the sidewalk into a wintery pathway the public can interact with and enjoy.

Yoga Your Way: Give Back to Local Organizations

On Saturday, December 17 and Sunday, December 18, Yoga Your Way is continuing the gift of giving by partnering with the Carlsbad Women’s Shelter and the Carlsbad/North County Animal Shelter. All you need to do is simply register for the class online and bring a donation to either or both organizations on the day of the yoga to receive a complimentary class!

Yoga Your Way is at 4700 Bayshore Drive in Carlsbad. Phone (760) 415-2402.

The post Celebrate the Holidays Throughout Carlsbad appeared first on Visit Carlsbad.

Small businesses are considered the backbone and heart of the economy. They bring the community together and help keep profits local – directly benefiting a city’s economy. Taxes from small businesses are transferred back into the parks, schools and services that are the foundation of a thriving community. For every dollar spent at a small business in the United States, approximately 67 cents stays in the local community. 

Small Business Saturday is also a great chance for small business owners to boost sales before the end of the year. While shoppers are used to hurrying to big department stores to cash in on Black Friday deals, Small Business Saturday encourages a more intimate shopping experience at local stores. 

This Saturday, November 26, 2022 you can celebrate Small Business Saturday in Carlsbad Village to boost awareness and support for local small businesses in Carlsbad. Shoppers can enjoy specials and discounts from almost every locally owned store in the Village. To add to it, there will be a hospitality booth from 10am to 5pm at the corner of Grand Ave. and State St. which will be giving away:

– $1,500 worth of dining gift cards

– Shop Small and Carlsbad logo tote bags to the first 100 people

– Reusable City of Carlsbad tote bags while supplies last

– Carlsbad swag

Check out of these local Carlsbad stores to find great gifts for the holidays and support businesses in the Village that serve our city:

Trove Marketplace 

Trove Marketplace is located in the heart of downtown Carlsbad. The shop is full of unique treasures with collections ranging from furniture and home decor to candles, jewelry and clothing. The eclectic mixture of unique gifts include everything from hand painted ornaments and charms to mermaid themed beach souvenirs. When it comes to holiday shopping, The Trove has everything you need to kick off holiday gift giving.

Stop by on Small Business Saturday for storewide discounts.

Village Rock Shop 

The Village Rock Shop was created by local entrepreneur Xenia Mateui. When she started the store, she knew that there was something special about the magical world of crystals but wasn’t sure just what. Today, Xenia’s shop is a place where local artisans can gather and share ideas. Shoppers will find a vast selection of hand-made products like natural candles, holiday earrings, aromatherapy sprays and dreamcatchers with gemstones.

The Village Rock Shop takes pride in ensuring that their crystals are of the best quality. Gems are sourced from around the world and offered at reasonable prices. Visit the Village Rock Shop on Small Business Saturday for 15% off, storewide.

Status Skate Shop

Skate culture is akin to surf culture in Carlsbad. For skaters who frequent the Carlsbad Skate Park or the Alga Norte Skatepark, Status Skateshop is a one stop shop for top of the line boards and accessories. Located in the heart of Carlsbad Village, Status is home to skateboards, longboards and one wheelers. Surfskates, fingerboards and kids boards are available as well.

Visit Status Skate Shop on Small Business Saturday for 10% off of some of the top brands in the industry including Alien Workshop, Element, Dogwood, Toy Machine, Shorty’s, Bamboo Skateboards, Onewheel Pint and much more. You even can grab protective gear, apparel and accessories while you’re at it. 

Retail Therapy Boutique 

Retail therapy is a thing, and at the Retail Therapy Boutique, owner Meghan Scholl has worked in retail for over 20 years and knows the benefits of retail therapy beyond the simple experience of shopping. When Meghan experienced the loss of both friends and family members in 2011, she found clarity in her love of clothes and realized that she wanted to offer the joy of retail with her community. 

In 2014, Retail Therapy Boutique opened with the goal to become a top destination for women who are searching for a unique place to shop for clothing, jewelry and gifts. Nestled in the Carlsbad Village, Retail Therapy Boutique is an outlet for the optimism and positivity that Meghan brings to her shop.

Make a purchase at the Retail Therapy Boutique this Small Business Saturday for a free gift.

Famulare Jewelers

During the holidays, jewelry is the key to the heart of someone special in your life. When you find a good jeweler, you can be certain that you’re purchasing a gift that will last for years. At Famulare Jewelers, a true passion for jewelry is seen in every piece that is for sale. Rita Famulare is a Graduate Gemologist from Calrsbad’s own GIA. She is committed to serving her customers and goes out of her way to find and customize jewelry for any request that comes through the door.

If you’re looking for jewelry this holiday season, visit Rita at Famulare Jewelers this Small Business Saturday for 20% off any purchase. 

Humble Olive Oils 

When you have a good product, there’s no need to be humble. Don’t be fooled by the name at Humble Olive Oils – their selection of oils and vinegars are some of the best in the city. They are family owned and operated, located on State Street in downtown Carlsbad.  Their olive oils are sourced from both hemispheres, so that their products are of the finest quality every season of the year. 

Shop premium extra virgin olive oils, infused olive oils and aged balsamic vinegars this Small Business Saturday and receive a free gift with a purchase of $25 or more.

Blues and Shoes 

With the right pair of jeans and fashionable footwear, you can show up anywhere with confidence. Blues and Shoes is a cute boutique in Carlsbad Village that features accessories, clothing and shoes at a reasonable price. Inventory is sourced from fashion events around the country and on Small Business Saturday, shoppers can receive even deeper discounts on holiday fashion with 25% off of full price items and 50% off redline items.

Beach City Smoothies 

Local shopping also means local dining. Beach City Smoothies is centrally located in Carlsbad Village, and they specialize in 100% vine ripened fruit smoothies. If you need a break from holiday shopping and refreshment to pick you up, swing by Beach City Smoothies for a relaxed beach atmosphere and delicious acai bowls, organic veggie juices and grab n’ go snacks.

Beach City Smoothies has been around since 2006 and is locally owned by Carlsbad resident Mary Jacobson. She takes pride in their ‘delicious and nutritious’ pure fruit smoothies and is committed to giving everyone who visits a fun and memorable experience. Grab a smoothie and mention Small Business Saturday on November 26 to receive 10% off all smoothies. 

The post Make Small Business Saturday a Success in Carlsbad – Saturday, November 26, 2022 appeared first on Visit Carlsbad.

The countdown to Halloween 2022 is on! From picking pumpkins and costume contests to trick-or-treating and a haunted corn maze, Halloween is spook-tacular in Carlsbad. There’s something for everyone! 

Pumpkins, Family Fun and a Haunted Corn Maze at the Carlsbad Strawberry Company

Known as a longtime local tradition, the Carlsbad Strawberry Company has been the place to go to get your fill of fall fun. This year, the tradition continues with a pumpkin patch, tractor rides, a family-friendly corn maze, a sheep and goat petting area, games and food that the entire family can enjoy. The Pumpkin Patch is open from 9am – 6pm daily through Sunday, November 6.  

But, that’s not all. The Carlsbad Strawberry Company has teamed up with the Agua Hedionda Lagoon to create a hair raising adventure that’s not for the faint of heart. The Haunted Corn Maze is open from 7pm-10pm on Fridays and Saturdays in October. Teenagers and adults can wander through the maze with a warning  – the wrong turn can result in a terrifying turn of events. Scary surprises are lurking around every corner to make you jump. A portion of your admission goes to educating the future Lagoon Stewards at the Agua Hedionda Lagoon.

The Carlsbad Strawberry Company is at 1050 Cannon Road in Carlsbad. 

A Haunted Steakhouse (…of sorts) at Park Hyatt Aviara

At Park Hyatt Aviara’s Ember & Rye, savor Halloween-inspired menu items and the restaurant’s specialty decor. Dress to impress in your favorite costume as you dine at Ember & Rye and be entered for the chance to win a bottle of wine or a gift card for a future visit. Reserve your spot at Ember & Rye from October 17 – 31 and experience a haunted steakhouse (…of sorts) during this spooky season. 

Park Hyatt Aviara Resort, Golf Club & Spa is located at 7100 Aviara Resort Drive in Carlsbad. 

Halloween Happenings at Plaza Paseo Real

This year Plaza Paseo Real calls all goblins, ghosts, and ghouls to join a Halloween event from 11am – 1pm on Saturday, October 22. The event will feature a live DJ, Halloween-themed kid crafts, face painting, balloon twisting and more. Guests are encouraged to wear Halloween costumes. Activities are free and open to the public. Visit the courtyard next to La Costa Coffee Roasting to get the festivities started.

Plaza Paseo Real is at 6941- 6985 El Camino Real in Carlsbad. 

Have Some Wicked Hot Halloween Treats at Eureka! Carlsbad

Eureka! Carlsbad is bringing some heat this year with the introduction of two new menu items that are sure to spice up any plans during the Halloween season. Scary Hot Fries are the restaurant’s signature french fries tossed in a painfully addicting ghost pepper spice blend, topped with cheeses, bacon and chipotle aioli. Daring eaters can cool the burn with a Chasing Ghosts cocktail featuring Del Maguey Mezcal, coconut milk, orgeat almond syrup and ghost pepper tincture. Don’t be a scaredy cat to try these new menu items perfect for Halloween (and offered through Wednesday, November 2). 

Eureka! Carlsbad is located at 6021 Innovation Way, Suite #110 in Carlsbad. 

Join The Forum Carlsbad for a “Spooktacular” Afternoon

A few days before the big night, The Forum Carlsbad is hosting an afternoon of Halloween fun. On Saturday, October 29, bring the family (wearing your best costumes) to enjoy an afternoon of trick or treating, music, photo booths, fun Halloween activities and appearances by creepy characters. From 2pm-6pm, each child will receive a complimentary bucket to collect candy from participating stores and restaurants. From 3pm-5pm, live music will be provided by local band Hullabaloo. 

The Forum Carlsbad is at 1923 Calle Barcelona in Carlsbad. 

Make Halloween Memories at The Beacon La Costa

For Halloween, The Beacon La Costa will host an event fondly named ‘Hey Boo!’ that starts at 3pm on Monday, October 31. Guests can enjoy pumpkin carving, story time with Maleficent, a live DJ and trick-or-treating. There will be costumed characters wandering the premises and free family photos for monster memories that will last for years. 

The Beacon La Costa is at 7710-70 El Camino Real in Carlsbad. 

Halloween is a Real Treat at The Shoppes at Carlsbad

Make sure to wear your favorite costume! The Shoppes at Carlsbad are featuring a curated trick-or-treat experience for kids from 4pm to 7pm on Monday, October 31. Select stores and restaurants will be handing out candy and goodies while supplies last. 

The Shoppes at Carlsbad is at 2525 El Camino Real in Carlsbad. 

Trick or Tee-ing at The Crossings’ Pumpkin Scramble

Have a ghoulishly fun outing on the golf course! The Crossings will feature a two-person Pumpkin Scramble starting at 1pm on Monday, October 31. The $200 package (for teams of two) includes golf with a cart and lunch. Wear your favorite costume! The day includes contests for costumes, closest to the pin and for the longest drive. Contest winners will be awarded following play. Reserve your spot today! 

The Crossings at Carlsbad is at 5800 The Crossings Drive in Carlsbad. 

Have a fa-BOO-lous Halloween season in Carlsbad! 

The post Have a Spooky Good Time in Carlsbad for the Halloween Season appeared first on Visit Carlsbad.

If you’re on the search for things you can plant before the heat sets in, some of the most popular and productive plants for springtime include warm-season vegetable seeds. These range from tomatoes and squash to eggplants, spinach, green beans, and onions. Warm-season herbs include mint, rosemary, basil, and oregano. May is also a fantastic time to plant root crops like beets, turnips, and carrots. You will also want to plant flowers in your garden to serve as pollinators. Summer annuals like petunias, marigolds, and sunflowers can be planted or seeded during the early summer months. 

The Southern California soil gives gardeners sustainable produce year-round. And whether you’re a planter or a gatherer, local produce is one of the gems that binds our community and supports our residents. Farmer’s Markets serve as a testament to the value of home grown goods. They offer a place for families and entrepreneurs to meet up and enjoy local foods and crafts. They also create local jobs, save resources, and promote shopping locally. Farmer’s markets facilitate personal connections between farmers and shoppers, and give farmers more direct access to money for their goods. Shoppers receive the freshest food in their area and get to enjoy the best of what’s grown in the region.  

Here are two markets in Carlsbad that can’t be missed:

State Street Farmer’s Market

The State Street Farmer’s Market is Carlsbad’s largest and most well-known open air market. It was created to encourage local farmers in their craft and to provide the community with a place to support the growth of local produce. 

The Farmer’s Market is open every Wednesday starting at 2:30 p.m. Fresh fruits, cheese, nuts, vegetables, fish, eggs, and honey are available year round. There are also a wide variety of food artisans with treats like kombucha, baked goods, and granola as well as hot food vendors with meals on-the-go. From gourmet grilled cheese to Thai, Indian/Pakistani, Filipino, and fresh ceviche – there is a plate for any palette. 

The State Street Farmer’s Market prides themselves on providing unique produce that can’t be found in chain grocery stores. They support certified growers and limit the amount of packaged foods. 

The market stays open until 7:00 p.m. to allow people the chance to visit after work. There is plenty of parking available throughout the Village, with public lots located on Roosevelt Street, State Street, and behind the Coaster. 

Carlsbad Ranch Market

While the State Street Farmer’s Market is the place to go for an authentic Farmer’s Market experience, the Carlsbad Ranch Market is a fresh take on the market experience. They are a local brick and mortar storefront with fresh and natural produce and groceries. They have a deli and also make their own pressed juices and smoothies. 

The Market is driven by old-fashioned service and takes pride in sourcing high quality local products. Their owner hand-picks produce from local vendors to ensure that there are fresh new choices every week. 

You can order online or visit in person on Paseo Del Norte across from Tip Top Meats.

There has never been a more important time to ‘think local’. As you’re planting your spring garden, visit either of these community markets to support local farmers and invest in your neighbors.

The post Plant a Seed and Shop Local in Carlsbad this Spring appeared first on Visit Carlsbad.

One of the most popular lists of favorites from celebrities are book lists. Reading is a solitary activity, regardless of if you’re famous or not. It is a way to enjoy adventure and fictional space without leaving the comfort of your own home. And, celebrities’ favorite book lists allow us to share that same adventure, without ever having met.

In 2021, there were a few books that were shared favorites among many different celebrities. Reese Witherspoon added Untamed to her list. The book was written by Glennon Doyle and tells the tale of a brave mother who learns that living for herself is the only way she can show her children how to truly live. Both President Obama and Kaia Gerber recommend Normal People. This story follows the inner workings of friendship in ordinary and not so ordinary circumstances of wealth, love, and the lack thereof. Oprah’s book club picked Hidden Valley Road: Inside the Mind of an American Family by Robert Kolker. The story follows a family of twelve children, riddled with mental illness and the quest to understand it. 

If one of your New Year’s resolutions is to read more – here are a few wonderful bookstores that you can visit to find your next great book:

Fahrenheit 451 Books

Located right in the Village, Fahrenheit 451 Books is devoted to the craft of the written word. Their store is packed full of great reads. Popular picks are organized alongside rare books, first editions, and old bindings. They encourage guests to take their time as they browse and the atmosphere is calm and relaxing. The staff takes pride in the books themselves, even offering repair and restoration services when needed.

Stop in for an amazing assortment of books – soft and hardcovers; fiction and nonfiction; novels, literature – you can find it all at Fahrenheit 451 Books. 

Friends of the Carlsbad Library Bookstores

The Friends of Carlsbad Library is a nonprofit organization that was created in 1957 to raise funds to support the Carlsbad City Library programs. 

Re-opening on February 8, 2022, the Friends Bookstores are located at the Dove and Cole libraries. The stores offer bargain prices for gently used books, magazines, sheet music, puzzles, and more. If you want to load up on good reads this year, Friends of the Carlsbad Libraries Bookstores is the place to get a good deal while supporting the community.

We’re almost into the second month of 2022. Add a good book or two to your list of things to do in the New Year and when the holidays roll around again, you’ll have some stories to tell. 

The post Start the Year With a Good Story appeared first on Visit Carlsbad.

In North America, gift giving abounds during the holidays. Santa leaves oversized presents under the Christmas tree in Canada and the U.S. In Mexico, Christmas is reserved for church, and gifts arrive a few days after Christmas on Three Kings Day. Across the pond, countries in Europe shower each other with gifts twice – once on the feast of Saint Nicholas on December 6th and again on Christmas Eve. In Spain and Italy, gifts are given on January 6th to commemorate the Feast of the Epiphany when the three wise men were said to deliver gifts to baby Jesus.

Regardless of where in the world you are – wintertime is the season for showering others with presents to honor holidays, religion, and family bonds. 

If you’re still on the hunt for gifts this season, here are some of the best places in Carlsbad to find just what you’re looking for.

Spin Records

Music is the gift that keeps on giving. Chances are, almost everyone on your list has a favorite tune. So, if you’re on the search for new music or vintage pressed vinyls, Spin Records is the place to go for the most unique collection of music around. The shop is a local haven for music lovers and collectors. 

Stop in today and browse the aisles –  you might just find a rare disc for your favorite indie loving, punk rock family member. 

MTA World Bazaar

Another unique stop with local one-of-a-kind gifts and international flare is the MTA World Bazaar. This little gallery has custom crafts and jewelry with global influence. There are masks and sculptures from Africa and India, as well as sterling silver necklaces, home accessories, and designer bags.

MTA World Bazaar is located in Village Faire, right in the heart of the historic village of Carlsbad. 

Humble Olive Oils

There is nothing better than a locally sourced gift that is as unique as where it came from. Humble Olive Oils is one of Carlsbad’s distinctive family owned and operated boutique shops located on State Street, right in the Village.

The store has a tasting room with infused varieties of olive oils ranging from bright citrus notes to floral herbs. There are balsamic vinegars from Italy and a selection of sauces, salts, and pastas that can be combined for the perfect holiday culinary treat. 

Carlsbad Premium Outlets

Or, if you don’t want to drive all over town tracking down items for everyone on your gift list, the Carlsbad Premium Outlets are the place to go. The Outlets have over 90 designer stores all in one place. The outdoor shopping center is right down the road from the LEGOLAND resort, and a quick drive from Carlsbad beaches. Whether you’re looking for new sneakers for your favorite nephew or a bag for the fashionista in your life, the Outlets are home to everything from the Nike Factory Store to Kate Spade.  

GiftCarlsbad Gift Card Program

Sometimes, choosing just the right gift for people on your list can be difficult. It’s hard to keep track of everyone’s wants and needs, and what someone likes can change year to year. For anyone that isn’t quite sure what to get for a loved one, the GiftCarlsbad Gift Card is the gift that won’t disappoint. GiftCarlsbad Gift Cards can be given for any amount and their value can be applied to a long list of retailers, restaurants, and entertainment venues around Carlsbad. All you have to do is visit the website, choose the amount you want to give, and send the ecard to your recipient via email or text message. Balances can be used at any combination of locations and won’t expire over time. With GiftCarlsbad, you can give the gift of choice to your loved ones while supporting the community at the same time. Buy one now to take advantage of Bonus Bucks, available for a limited time only.

This holiday, embrace the tradition of gift giving and spoil your loved ones by visiting any one of these local shopping centers. There is never a bad time to give presents to the people you care for, but the holidays are a great excuse to go all out. 

The post Where to Get Gifts in Carlsbad this Holiday appeared first on Visit Carlsbad.

If you need a place to celebrate this Thanksgiving this year, consider gathering loved ones and sharing a meal with food from any one of these great Carlsbad locations:

20|Twenty 

The Westin Carlsbad Resort & Spa is bringing two key elements together this Thanksgiving with their Friends & Feasting festivities. They will be offering seasonally sourced cuisine hosted by their team of talented chefs. The $98 Pre-Fixe menu has been curated especially for friends and family to get together and enjoy. Reservations are available from 12:00 p.m. to 8 p.m. and will feature modern dishes with fresh takes on holiday favorites. 

There will be savory spinach and Frisee salad, fall harvest root vegetable quinoa coconut curry, cabernet braised short rib with celery root puree, and much, much more. Browse the menu here and book your reservation today. 

Urban Plates

If you’re wanting to relax and kick back during the holiday, then Urban Plates can take all of the stress of cooking off your plate so that you can spend time with those you love while still enjoying top-notch cuisine.

For a homemade meal without the hard work, Urban Plates has three different pre-order meals available alongside made-to-order sides and desserts. The $139 Turkey Family Feast can serve up to eight people and includes all of the favorites. Herb-roasted turkey breast, sides, mushroom stuffing, cranberry relish, and artisan bread will be fully cooked and chilled, with heating instructions – ready to pick up on November 23rd or 24th. They will also be offering a smaller version of the feast for four people or individual turkey plates for smaller gatherings. Their sides include everything from mashed organic potatoes to macaroni and cheese and roasted brussels sprouts with turkey bacon.

Take the work out of meal prep by pre-ordering any one of their Thanksgiving meals for your family and pick it up early so that you can spend the day relaxing and being thankful this holiday.  

Buffet or Dinner at the Omni

Usually, it’s Thanksgiving dinner that people save their appetites for. This year, the Omni La Costa Resort & Spa isn’t setting a limit on when you can start eating, or how much you can have. The restaurant’s newest venue, Costa de la Luna, will be hosting a Chef’s Champagne Buffet, catered by Executive Chef Adam Solowitz. The buffet will include a full feast of holiday treats, including a cold seafood bar, Cajun deep-fried turkey, and carving stations. The cost is $125 per adult and $55 per child ages 4-10. 

Or, if you prefer a seated pre-fixe option, Bob’s Steak and Chop House will also be offering a traditional take on Thanksgiving Dinner. The restaurant will offer the finest selection of meats and sides from 3-7 p.m, and are taking reservations now. 

Park Hyatt Aviara

Another resort that is offering a variety of dining options this holiday season is the Park Hyatt Aviara. The California Salon at the Park Hyatt will be starting the day early with a Thanksgiving Day Brunch Buffet starting at 11:00 a.m. and lasting until 4:00 p.m. for only $105 for adults and $55 for children. Ember and Rye will be hosting a Thanksgiving day buffet with a family-style feast for diners of all ages. 

Lastly, the Ponto Lago will also be keeping family in mind with a Baja-California themed menu and accompanying family feast.

The Crossings at Carlsbad

Ocean views and golf greens are just a few of the reasons that The Crossings at Carlsbad feel like a vacation year-round. For Thanksgiving this year, Canyons Restaurant at The Crossings is featuring a Turkey Feast that will be hard to beat. There is a vegetarian option for $45 and a full Thanksgiving Dinner option for $50. You can upgrade your meal with bottomless mimosas for just $20 and enjoy a three-course pre-fixe menu with everything from butternut squash bisque to roasted turkey breast or ratatouille wellington with whipped potatoes, baked yams, or roasted brussels sprouts and a desert.

For dinner with a view, book a reservation at The Crossings at Carlsbad this Thanksgiving. 

Giving thanks is done in many different ways. This year, leave the meal to trusted chefs throughout Carlsbad’s community restaurants. The thanks you feel in your heart can be felt with time well spent and meals from places you love. Your friends and family will feel the love too. 

The post Seasoning Thanksgiving with Meals to Love in Carlsbad appeared first on Visit Carlsbad.

When it comes to holiday gift-giving – there are many reasons you should choose to shop local. From simple benefits like convenience to more impactful reasons like the environment and local economy – shopping locally really does help the world around you. Supporting independent businesses and neighborhood charities can directly impact community members who have been negatively affected by the pandemic. Many small shops have struggled to stay afloat during the past year. Holiday shopping is the perfect way to support these businesses and spoil your loved ones. Shopping locally allows us to invest in the community, helps create demand for local jobs, gives us quality products through sustainable goods, and produces great deals for budgets of all kinds. 

If you want to get ahead of the holiday rush and are looking for thoughtful, wonderful, and unique gifts this season – here are some great options in Carlsbad Village that check all the boxes:

Village Rock Shop

The world of crystals has been gaining traction in popular culture. This magical world of gemstones and their healing powers is rooted in local artisans and artists. And, the Village Rock Shop in Carlsbad Village has the highest quality raw, faceted, polished gemstones and customizable gift sets around.

The Village Rock Shop aims to offer the finest selection of crystals and gemstones from around the world at affordable prices. Their stones include healing crystals that are sourced from small mines. Each crystal has its own healing and balancing powers, and they have a range of options – everything from crystal jewelry to spheres, towers, geodes, and wands. There are also dreamcatchers with gemstones, homemade natural candles, aromatherapy sprays and smudging kits. 

Stop in to find a custom gem that will surprise and delight anyone on your holiday shopping list. 

Rebel Villa

One of the newer locally owned boutiques in Carlsbad Village is Rebel Villa. Owners Sonnet and Mindy set out to provide quality bohemian-inspired decor at affordable prices. Their storefront is a beautiful display of macrame, plants, and upscale accessories. The boutique is fueled by a mission to support female artisans and their products are bold and welcoming.

From plant hangers, metal wall hangings, and art prints to home textiles and indoor plants, this boutique is a one-stop-shop for wellness and living. Drop in for a gift for your favorite bohemian friend or tackle a full room renovation with home accents, wall decor, candles, and textiles.  

75 Degrees and Fuzzy

If you’re traveling to Southern California, there’s no doubt that you’ve likely heard the term ‘75 and sunny’. Our Mediterranean climate keeps us hovering right around 75 degrees, and the sun is out all year. 75 Degrees and Fuzzy is a fun play on this term and an even better clothing boutique.

The co-founder of 75 Degrees and Fuzzy grew up loving the art of dress-up and performance. Layna Hathaway has always adored fashion and has been able to apply this adoration to her store’s inventory. Each piece in the boutique is handpicked by Layna and her mom and is sourced from the Los Angeles Fashion District as well as vendors from the show MAGIC. The clothes at 75 Degrees and Fuzzy are for real women who are ‘never too old to dress up’. Pieces are modern, fashionable, and classic. Whether you need the basics or a new bodysuit and mini dress, 75 Degrees and Fuzzy has you covered. 

Coolest Shoes in California

Sometimes, a name says it all. And let’s be honest – if you’re looking for new shoes, why wouldn’t you want to get a pair that is the ‘coolest’ in California?

At Coolest Shoes in California, owners have stocked up on everything from lightweight running shoes to pillow-soft sandals. You can grab a new set of flip-flops to take to the beach or try on a new pair of running shoes for your next workout. They have comfort and style all wrapped up in a trendy local boutique. Open Monday – Saturday from 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Coolest Shoes in California has footwear with a variety of comfort features. Ventilation, orthotic arch support, and memory foam foot bedding are just a few of the things that you can find when you visit.

It’s never too early to get a jump start on holiday shopping. This year, try out any of the unique shops in Carlsbad Village to support local businesses and shower your loved ones with gifts fit for any season.  

The post Shop Local this Season in Carlsbad Village appeared first on Visit Carlsbad.

When you’ve soaked in the sun and decompressed, a good time is in order. That good time can be found at the Village Faire Shopping Center. Village Faire is a cluster of restaurants, bars, and shops just steps from the beach. If you’re planning a trip or already here – scope out the Faire for your next meal, an afternoon snack, happy hour, or place to unwind. 

The Village Faire is located just down the street from Historic Carlsbad Village. It has a unique New England-style architecture. The buildings feature a two-story view with a balcony that surrounds a fountain courtyard. There is a laid-back Caribbean vibe with over 36 shops, restaurants, and services just a block from the beach. The boutique-style shops offer everything from fun socks at Sock District to beach fashion at Mermaids Boutique. You can grab a gift for friends at Linda’s Gift or adjust your chakra with crystals, amethysts, and jade rollers from Earth’s Elements. 

For hands-on experiences, The Village Faire also has the Lynn Forbes School of Sculpture and the North County Coastal Art Gallery. The School of Sculpture is a world leader in figurative sculpture and excels in realistic portrait work. You can wander in for a quick class or browse the sculptures for sale. The Coastal Art Gallery represents member artists of the Carlsbad-Oceanside Art League and is home to seasonal showcases and competitive shows.

The restaurants at the Village Faire are where the fun starts. There is everything from down-home cooking at the Clara-Kitchen & Bar to ramen, Italian, poke, and more. Gelato Love is a great place to stop for dessert, and once you’re ready to grab a brew you can swing by American Heroes & Brew.

But, the real excitement goes down at Coyote Bar & Grill. If you happen to be walking around the Village, or have just gotten off the beach and are headed to your car, you’ve probably heard the live music coming from Coyote Bar & Grill. The restaurant is rich with entertainment, and the outdoor patio welcomes a good time – no matter what time of day it is. They have California Cuisine and over 100 tequilas to choose from. They feature live entertainment nightly and karaoke almost weekly. It has been in operation since 1989 and regardless of whether you’re visiting during the week or letting loose on the weekend, the restaurant is the heartbeat of music, fun, and, and dancing on Carlsbad Village Drive.

There is never a bad time for a trip to downtown Carlsbad. Next time you’re in town, definitely don’t miss a chance to enjoy the fun at the Village Faire. 

The post Find a Good Time at the Faire appeared first on Visit Carlsbad.

All in all, it’s no surprise that the show and the toys are a great hit. That’s why LEGOLAND opened Ninjago as a place for fans to experience the adventure in real life. LEGO Ninjago World centers around an exciting ride where guests have the ability to blast animated fireballs, lightning, shockwaves, and ice at enemies. The ride climaxes with the battle to defeat the Great Devourer. Each rider can rank their scores against friends and family.  

Starting this month, and through September, LEGOLAND is celebrating the Ninjago 10th Anniversary. 

Guests who visit during the anniversary will get the chance to celebrate the decade of Ninjago virtually and in real life. The two worlds are colliding for an adventure that is wrapped in celebration – a testament to the skills of Master Wu and his talented team of ninjas.

During the Anniversary celebration a new challenge has arisen. Master Wu and his team need guests’ help to uncover the six golden fragments of the missing Golden Amulet. The beloved team has been searching for the amulet for years – and only now can guests at LEGOLAND help get it back. The park has challenges spread out throughout Ninjago World – obstacles that you can get rewarded for as you complete them and come closer to restoring the Amulet for Master Wu, Kai, Lloyd, Zane, Cole, Nya, and Jay. 

The challenges at the park are a mixture of virtual games and real life encounters. Outside of the ride, Ninjago World will be filled with characters, demonstrations, and activities to celebrate Ninjago’s crowning achievements. La Lloyd will make an appearance and will host opportunities for young ninjas to train alongside him. There will be real life demonstrations about how to stand up to bullying with anti-bullying techniques showcased by Kidpower. And, there will be martial arts lessons from DeStolfo’s Martial Arts team.

Master Wu needs guests’ help to team up with his ninjas and protect the Ninjago legacy. The experience is only available for a limited time and is an exciting chance to celebrate Ninjago and take back the valuable Spinjitzu teachings from evil Lord Garmadon. Get your tickets now!  

The post Celebrating a Decade of Ninjago at LEGOLAND appeared first on Visit Carlsbad.