The holidays in San Diego have a vibe all their own. It’s not about snowy streets and bundled-up shoppers—it’s about palm trees wrapped in lights, craft fairs in Little Italy, and tamales on Christmas Eve.
This season is the perfect time to connect with customers in a way that feels personal and relevant to our community.
Here are some of our favorite ways to use the spirit of the season to get even better marketing results.
1. Showcase Your Local Ties to Build Trust
Use events like December Nights, the Parade of Lights, or Old Town’s Las Posadas in your campaigns. For example, run a special offer for customers who attend these events or create themed posts around them.
Add touches that only locals would get, like referencing Santa surfing at La Jolla Shores or holiday shopping at the Gaslamp Artisan Market.
2. Run Targeted Online Ads to Drive Foot Traffic
Use platforms like Google Ads or Facebook to target ZIP codes around your storefront. Run ads like “Last-Minute Gifts in Little Italy—Shop Local!” to catch nearby shoppers.
You can also promote around high-traffic events like farmers markets or holiday fairs. For example, “Swing by our shop during the Encinitas Holiday Street Fair for exclusive deals!”
If you want to run ads, they should focus on getting people to act now, like “Visit today for free gift wrapping!” or “In-store special: 20% off ornaments this weekend.”
3. Make Your Website and Social Media Holiday-Ready
Shoppers are browsing on their phones, especially when looking for last-minute deals. Make sure your site loads fast, works on mobile, and highlights seasonal products or services.
Giving your audience a peek into your holiday spirit can also help you and your business be more relatable. For instance, upload festive images of your storefront, products, or team to your profile. People love visuals.
4. Run Seasonal Promotions People Actually Want
Holiday promotions work best when they’re simple, clear, and feel connected to what people in San Diego care about this time of year.
For one, try creating offers that tie into the holiday spirit. For example, “Get a free tamale with every $20 purchase—this week only!” for a restaurant or “Holiday bundle: Surf gear essentials for $50—only until Dec. 24!” for a local shop.
Show love to your regulars with exclusive offers. Send an email saying, “We appreciate you! Stop by this weekend for a free holiday gift with any purchase.”
5. Focus on Last-Minute Shoppers
A lot of us love to procrastinate, especially during the holidays. Make it easy for those last-minute shoppers to buy from you.
If you sell online, emphasize fast, local delivery options. Use promotions like “Order by Dec. 22 for guaranteed San Diego delivery before Christmas!” to build urgency.
Digital gift cards are a lifesaver for last-minute shoppers. Make sure they’re featured on your site and in your email campaigns if you offer them.
Let’s Make This Your Best Season Yet!
At the end of the day, holiday marketing for San Diego businesses doesn’t have to be complicated.
Focus on what makes your business unique, stay connected to the community, and make it easy for customers to shop with you—whether they’re stopping by your store in Mission Hills or ordering online from their couch in PB.
If you need help running campaigns or making your seasonal marketing shine, we’ve got your back. Let us handle the digital side so you can focus on running your business and enjoying the holidays.
Call 619-337-8088 or send us a message to get the ball rolling – a member of the CMC Advertising team will be with you ASAP!
