8. San Diego Harbor Parade of Lights

The Buzz -- This colorful December event celebrates the holiday season by dressing up local boats in strands of flickering lights and parading them through the harbor to the delight of all who watch. For boaters, a good viewing area is where the parade route turns for Coronado, near the 10th Street Terminal. For landlubbers, try the north or south ends of the Embarcadero or the path along Coronado. Parking is at a premium, so you may want to use public transportation.