The holiday season at Hotel del Coronado promises to be unlike any other in 2025, as the iconic seaside resort introduces “A Holiday in Oz”, a celebration inspired by L. Frank Baum’s beloved tales of Dorothy and her companions. With ties to the famed author, who frequented the property between 1904 and 1917, The Del draws on its history and whimsical architecture to bring Baum’s fantasy world to life on the Southern California coast.
Guests can expect a season filled with enchantment, creativity, and cherished traditions, all while enjoying the luxury and grandeur that have made Hotel del Coronado a symbol of hospitality for more than a century.
Honoring History with a Fresh Beginning
This year’s holiday program carries special meaning as it follows the completion of a $550 million restoration project spanning six years. The transformation safeguarded the hotel’s Victorian charm while upgrading guest amenities to world-class standards.
At the heart of the festivities lies the Victorian Garden Courtyard, which will be transformed into a fantasy-inspired wonderland. A dazzling projection of the famous yellow brick road will lead visitors through scenes honoring Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tin Woodman, and the Cowardly Lion. Towering Christmas trees adorned with glittering ornaments and whimsical displays will make guests feel as though they’ve stepped into the Land of Oz itself.
Beloved Traditions Return to the Coast
While the Oz-inspired décor adds a new dimension to the celebrations, Hotel del Coronado continues to honor traditions that guests eagerly anticipate each year.
The lobby will once again feature a towering, two-story Christmas tree adorned with thousands of lights and ornaments. Outdoors, the “Skating by the Sea” rink makes its return, offering the unique experience of gliding across the ice with the Pacific Ocean as a backdrop. Families, couples, and friends can enjoy skating sessions under the California sun or beneath twinkling holiday lights.
More than just an attraction, the ice rink continues its legacy of giving. A portion of proceeds from ticket sales will benefit Make-A-Wish San Diego, providing hope and joy to children and families facing critical illnesses. The blending of holiday spirit with charitable impact underscores The Del’s role as both a cultural icon and a community partner.
The festivities will officially begin on November 21, 2025, and continue through January 4, 2026, allowing plenty of time for both visitors and locals to take part in the seasonal magic.
Culinary Excellence Joins the Celebration: Nobu Arrives at The Del
As if the holiday spectacle were not enough, Hotel del Coronado is celebrating the arrival of Nobu, the globally acclaimed Japanese restaurant brand. Known for its innovative cuisine blending Japanese tradition with Peruvian influences, Nobu is expected to become a highlight of the property’s dining scene.
The new restaurant brings a sophisticated culinary experience to the resort, allowing guests to pair their festive adventures with world-class cuisine. For food lovers and travelers seeking an elevated dining experience, the addition of Nobu reinforces The Del’s reputation as a premier destination not just for accommodations but also for gastronomy.
A Holiday Destination That Stands Apart
Few destinations combine history, luxury, and creativity in the way Hotel del Coronado does. Its Victorian-era architecture, oceanfront setting, and enduring traditions create a backdrop unlike any other in the country.
The “Holiday in Oz” celebration is more than just themed décor; it is a tribute to imagination, storytelling, and the enduring power of shared experiences. The celebration ties together sparkling décor, beloved activities, charitable giving, and world-class dining to offer something for every type of traveler.
For families, the season offers opportunities to create cherished memories. For couples, it provides a romantic setting under glowing lights and starry skies. For locals, it is a chance to return year after year, weaving The Del into the fabric of their own traditions.
A Season to Remember
As 2025 draws to a close, Hotel del Coronado stands ready to offer one of its most memorable holiday seasons yet. By blending Oz-inspired enchantment, community-centered traditions, and the arrival of a globally renowned restaurant, The Del reaffirms its place as a must-visit holiday destination in Southern California.
For those seeking a holiday filled with wonder, culinary delights, and coastal charm, Hotel del Coronado’s “Holiday in Oz” celebration promises to deliver an unforgettable experience. Whether stepping onto the yellow brick road, skating by the sea, or dining at Nobu, visitors will find themselves immersed in a holiday story that is as magical as it is timeless.
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