Operation Santa Claus is a 12-season Carlsbad tradition led by local firefighters who collect toys and donations for families in need. Each December, fire engines roll through neighborhoods spreading holiday cheer and reminding the community what service truly looks like.

Explore the backstory of Carlsbad’s Amigos Light Show, a neighborhood holiday display known for synchronized lights, family traditions, and the Cocoa for a Cause event benefiting local school families.

Looking for places to donate toys in Carlsbad before the holiday season ends? This roundup shares the local spots still accepting new, unwrapped toys for Toys for Tots and other community drives. From Village favorites to family friendly locations, here is your easy guide to giving back and spreading joy in Carlsbad this week.

Discover Carlsbad local Alice Han, creator of @pickleball_diaries and leader of the longtime “Shady Ladies” pickleball crew. From her favorite courts around Carlsbad to her community volunteering at Agua Hedionda Lagoon and fostering rescue dogs, Alice shares the places, rituals, and local spots that make life in Carlsbad so special. Explore her top seven Carlsbad favorites in this week’s Local’s Eye feature.

San Diego native and mom of two, Yesenia (@sandiegogirlmom), shares her favorite Carlsbad spots — from family adventures on the coast to the small local businesses her girls love most. Her picks blend everyday magic with the easygoing rhythm of North County life.

Carlsbad mom and community-builder Codie Cabral shares the seven things she loves most about life here. From sunset culture and coastal train sounds to golf cart adventures into the Village with her kids. Her picks blend simple, grounding moments with the outdoorsy spirit of Carlsbad, all woven together with the same presence and playfulness that inspired her to start Moms Who Kinda Surf.

Nearly 100 years after its debut, the Carlsbad Theatre is getting a new life. Local creative Bradley Wentzel is leading the revival, blending nostalgia, community, and modern vision to bring this Village landmark back to its rightful place at the heart of Carlsbad.

Carlsbad Days founder Marissa McLaughlin shares her seven favorite local spots — from sunset burrito nights on the sand to Jazzercise classes that feel more like therapy than a workout. Her picks highlight the laid-back rhythm of Carlsbad life, blending family moments, community favorites, and simple pleasures that remind you why living here feels so special.

Carlsbad goes off year-round — from The Flower Fields and Carlsbad 5000 in spring, TGIF Concerts and beach days in summer, to Jurassic Pumpkin Patch, Oktoberfest, whale watching, holiday lights, and winter hikes.

Explore Carlsbad Village like a local — from Carlsbad Alkaline Water and Wildland Restaurant to Board & Brew, State Street Farmers’ Market, Rebel Villa, Choice Juicery, and more favorite neighborhood spots.