As the holiday season approaches, San Diego transforms into a festive haven filled with twinkling lights, joyful music, and seasonal celebrations. For seniors, December is a wonderful time to connect with family and friends, explore the local community, and participate in heartwarming traditions. At Lantern Crest Senior Living in Santee, we embrace this magical time of year by offering a variety of holiday-inspired activities and outings that are both enriching and enjoyable for our residents.
Whether you enjoy strolling through dazzling light displays, indulging in seasonal treats, or crafting handmade gifts, December in San Diego offers something for everyone. Here’s a look at some of the top festive activities perfect for seniors living in or near the Santee area, along with the many ways Lantern Crest brings the joy of the season to life.
1. Explore Holiday Light Displays
San Diego boasts some of the most beautiful holiday light displays in Southern California, many of which are senior-friendly and accessible. Whether enjoyed on a scenic drive or as a leisurely group outing, holiday lights offer a cheerful way to get into the spirit of the season.
- Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo: This annual event transforms the zoo into a winter wonderland with festive lights, live music, and holiday-themed animal presentations. It’s an ideal excursion for seniors who enjoy walking and wildlife in a fun, illuminated setting.
- Candy Cane Lane in Poway: For a more relaxed experience, take a scenic drive through this local neighborhood where residents go all out with their decorations. It’s a classic holiday tradition that brings back nostalgic memories and offers plenty of photo opportunities.
- Starlight Circle in Santee: Right near Lantern Crest, this local favorite features homes decked out in elaborate displays. It’s a perfect way for residents to enjoy festive cheer without having to travel far.
2. Enjoy Seasonal Performances and Music
Live entertainment is a hallmark of the holiday season, and San Diego offers a variety of concerts, plays, and musical events throughout December. From classic Christmas carols to ballet performances, there are many ways to enjoy holiday music and the arts.
- Holiday Pops at the San Diego Symphony: Seniors with a love for classical music will enjoy this beloved annual concert featuring traditional carols, a live orchestra, and special guest vocalists.
- The Nutcracker Ballet: For many, this timeless performance is a must-see. Several venues in the San Diego area, including the California Center for the Arts, offer senior-accessible shows throughout December.
At Lantern Crest, residents don’t have to travel far to enjoy music and entertainment. We bring live holiday performances right to our community, creating festive moments that everyone can enjoy together in comfort.
3. Holiday Crafts and Decorating
Creative expression plays a big role in our December activity calendar. Whether it’s making ornaments, designing wreaths, or decorating cookies, engaging in hands-on crafts helps spark joy and build community among residents. It’s also a wonderful way to create personalized gifts for loved ones.
Throughout the month, Lantern Crest’s Life Enrichment team hosts seasonal workshops and themed events designed to celebrate the season and encourage creativity. These activities are tailored to all ability levels, ensuring that everyone can participate and enjoy the holiday spirit.
4. Seasonal Dining and Festive Treats
One of the best parts of the holiday season is the food! From classic comfort dishes to holiday cookies and mulled cider, December offers a chance to enjoy warm, nostalgic meals with a seasonal twist.
Lantern Crest’s dining experience embraces this fully, with chef-prepared holiday menus that include traditional favorites and new creations. Residents can enjoy themed meals in a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for sharing laughter and stories with neighbors and visiting family.
5. Community Giving and Volunteering
The holiday season is also a time for giving. Many seniors find joy and purpose through volunteering or participating in community drives that support local charities and families in need.
At Lantern Crest, we organize seasonal donation drives and opportunities to give back to the community. Whether it’s collecting toys, creating care packages, or writing holiday cards for deployed military personnel, these activities foster a strong sense of connection and meaning during the holiday season.
6. Holiday Movie Nights and Memory Sharing
Nothing says “cozy December evening” like a holiday movie and a cup of cocoa. Lantern Crest regularly hosts seasonal movie nights featuring classics like It’s a Wonderful Life and White Christmas, creating a relaxed and nostalgic experience for residents.
In addition, we encourage memory-sharing events, where residents can tell their favorite holiday stories, share family traditions, or show photos from past celebrations. These moments of reflection help strengthen bonds and bring the true spirit of the season to life.
7. Safe and Festive Outings
While many seniors enjoy staying close to home during the holidays, others love the adventure of exploring San Diego’s seasonal offerings. With safety as a top priority, Lantern Crest organizes optional outings to local holiday events, Christmas markets, and scenic drives. Transportation is provided, and our team ensures that every outing is comfortable and accessible for all residents.
December at Lantern Crest Senior Living
At Lantern Crest, December is a time of warmth, community, and celebration. Our full calendar of festive activities ensures that residents are surrounded by joy, comfort, and companionship all month long. With opportunities to be creative, stay active, and celebrate meaningful traditions, seniors can enjoy a fulfilling and festive holiday season in the heart of Santee.
If you’re considering senior living for yourself or a loved one, there’s no better time to see the Lantern Crest difference. We invite you to explore our vibrant community and learn more about how we make the holidays—and every day—special for our residents.
Contact us to schedule a visit or learn more about our December activities and events.
