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2025 Chula Vista Christmas Tree Lighting

🎄Happy Holidays from District 2!🎄

Dear District 2 Residents,

The Office of District 2 would like to extend our best wishes to you and yours this holiday season. I am completing my third year of service as your City Council Representative and my sixth month as a California Coastal Commissioner. I am grateful to live in and serve Northwest Chula Vista.

Our beautiful city is a reminder of what the holidays represent: togetherness, tradition, and new beginnings. The Chula Vista community never fails to show up for each other. This year, you found new local businesses to support, you joined the conversation at community meetings, or you lent a helping hand to a neighbor in need. Chula Vista carried on new & old traditions, including the Lemon Festival, the Starlight Parade, Christmas Circle, and flag-raising ceremonies for month-long observances. We also celebrated the openings of the new Gaylord Pacific Resort, Sweetwater Park, and Casa Casillas. Don't forget the ongoing restorations of Eucalyptus Park & Hilltop Park! The Chula Vista Fire Department also welcomed their next Fire Chief, Christopher Manroe! Manroe has over 27 years of experience, spending 17 years in Chula Vista. Congratulations to Chief Manroe and to Chief Harry Muns on his retirement. There's a lot to be joyful about as we reach the end of the year, and plenty to look forward to in the new year. What was your Chula Vista highlight of 2025?

Keep reading for lots of holiday resources and upcoming events.

Cordially yours in service,

Councilmember Jose Preciado

City of Chula Vista, District 2

Spotlight on: 2-1-1 San Diego

211 San Diego is a trusted source for information and connections to community, health, and disaster resources. Help is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and in more than 200 languages. They maintain a database of more than 6,000 services and resources, updated on a real-time basis. You can search this database yourself, as well! Below are just a few San Diego County events we found when searching "holiday" in the 211 Resource Database. Make a search and find any resource you need!

San Diego Rescue Mission Christmas Dinner

San Diego Rescue Mission will provide an indoor seated meal, hot showers, haircuts, bag storage, pet care, and more on Saturday, December 20th at 120 Elm St, San Diego, CA 92101. Learn more.

Serving Seniors Christmas Meal

Serving Seniors will provide free holiday meals for older adults on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day at the Gary and Mary West Senior Wellness Center, 1525 4th Ave, San Diego, CA 92101. Two lunch seatings are offered on both days, with breakfast available on Christmas Eve only.

Open to adults aged 60+. New participants must bring a valid photo ID to enroll in services.

Christmas Eve – Sunday, Dec. 24th

           Center open 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM

           Breakfast: 8:00 AM

           Lunch: 11:00 AM and 12:15 PM

Christmas Day – Monday, Dec. 25th

           Center open 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

           No Breakfast

           Lunch: 11:00 AM and 12:15 PM

Shaback Christmas Extravaganza

Shaback Altruistic Inc. is hosting its 32nd Annual Christmas Extravaganza on Wednesday, December 24th from 12:00 to 5:00PM at 404 Euclid Ave, San Diego, CA 92113. This celebration will have entertainment, activities, and resources for individuals and families experiencing hardship during the holiday season.

There will be a meal distribution, grocery giveaways, and a Toys for Tots giveaway.

**REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED TO ACCESS SERVICES**

Open to San Diego County families who have children between the ages of 0-16. Children must not have already received Toys for Tots from another organization. Proof of age and residency required.

Click for registration form.

Feeding San Diego Map

Find food pantries and distributions near you with Feeding San Diego's food map! See the hours and eligibility requirements, as well.

Enter your zip code and find a location that works for you!

Jacobs & Cushman San Diego

Food Bank

Check out the San Diego Food Bank's food locator map.

Enter your location and find the best site for you!

SBCS Food Distributions

SBCS has updated their list of remaining dates for food distribution in 2025! See the flyer for when and where to get free food for your family this holiday season. Learn more.

If you're interested in volunteering, please contact the team at 619-271-5149 or volunteer@csbcs.org. Must be 18+.

Past Events

Starlight Parade & Festival 2025

This year's Starlight Parade & Festival was a great turnout of neighbors, businesses, organizations, artists, and more along historic Third Ave. We celebrated with a Tree Lighting Ceremony, a nighttime market, live music, and the culminating parade. The holidays are the warmest amongst the community. We hope you had a fun time with your families and friends. If you weren’t able to make it, don’t worry! We’ll see you next year.

News to Know

City Offices Closed on

December 25th & January 1st

All City offices and facilities will be closed on Thursday, December 25th & Thursday, January 1st, for Christmas and New Year's holidays. Trash services will be affected by the holidays—pickup will be delayed by one day both weeks.

*Note: City offices will close at 3:00PM on 12/24 and 12/31.*

Winter 2026 Guide to Recreation

After a 15-year hiatus, the Parks & Rec Department has brought back Guide to Recreation, a 73-page full-color document highlighting all classes and programs at Chula Vista recreational facilities for Winter 2026.

Find the next class for both you and the family! Click to read.

Free Rabies & Microchip Clinic

Chula Vista Animal Services will hold a FREE rabies & microchip clinic on Saturday, December 20th from 9:00-10:30AM at the Chula Vista Animal Care Facility.

*First come first serve, while supplies last(limit 50)

*Chula Vista, National City & Lemon Grove residents only

Please bring:

- Your government issued ID (must be at least 18 yrs old)

- Proof of residency

- Dogs need to be on a leash

- Cats in carrier

Limit to 3 per household.

*Your ID does NOT count as proof of residency. Your proof of residency must be in YOUR name and current within 60 days

Residents from other zip codes are welcome to purchase the rabies ($10) and microchips ($5). While supplies last.

Free MTS Rides on New Year's Eve

MTS is offering free rides on Wednesday, December 31st, after 6:00PM to help you get home safely!

This service is available across San Diego on all MTS buses & trolley lines, as well as NCTD COASTER, SPRINTER, and BREEZE services.

All trolley lines will also run extra late-night past 2:00AM!

See the full schedule.

Public Tobacco Use

& Accessibility Survey

Chula Vista wants to hear from you! We're gathering community feedback to better understand tobacco use and access in our city. Your input will help guide future programs and policies that support responsible practices and promote community well-being.

We have two quick, anonymous surveys available:

• One for residents
• One for businesses that sell tobacco products

Click to take the survey.

Upcoming Events in District 2

Christmas Circle

District 2's very own Christmas Circle is back to light up your night! Bring your pups and do a walking tour of each house, or stay in your car and drive through! The displays can be found at Whitney St & Mankato St from 5:00-10:00PM.

The residents put in many hours to ensure our community can enjoy this beautiful display—make sure to give your thanks and treat each home in and around the neighborhood with respect!

Hot Cocoa & Game Night

Bring your family and friends to celebrate the holiday season at the Chula Vista Woman's Club! Hosted by the Parks & Rec Department, join Holiday Hot Cocoa & Game Night on Friday, December 19th at 6:00PM.

Here, you'll build your own hot cocoa, play board games, card games, and other family-friendly activities. There will also be music and photo ops! All ages are welcome. Cost: $5/resident, $6/non-resident.

Get your tickets!

Saturday Sketching

Join Casa Casillas for a free self-guided still life sketching class. Bring your favorite drawing tools, settle in, and sketch at your own pace. The class takes place on Saturday, December 20th at 12:00PM at Casa Casillas, 50 Fourth Ave. No registration required, but is appreciated for planning. Call 619-585-5782 to register.

Grand Posada @ Chula Vista Center

Save the date! The Chula Vista Center is hosting a Grand Posada on Sunday, December 21st, 3:00-6:00PM!

Celebrate the holiday season with the community: enjoy FREE toys, art installations, festive workshops, live performances, artisan market, family-friendly activities, and more. A vibrant cultural celebration for everyone!

🎁 1000+ Toy Giveaway

🎨 Art Stations & Workshops

🖼️ Holiday Art Exhibition

💃 Folklorico Dance

🎶 DJ & Live Music

🛍️ Vendors & Artisan Market

🎅 Visit with Santa

…and more!

Peace Out 2025 @ Living Coast

Say Peace Out to 2025 on Wednesday, December 31st, from 6:00-9:00PM, at the Living Coast Discovery Center!

This special New Year's Eve celebration will feature animal ambassadors, a live DJ, local food trucks, specialty cocktails, and more. This event is family-friendly! Dress in your grooviest get-up and get down on the dance floor.

Get your tickets!

Community Clean-up

South Bay Sustainable Communities is hosting a community clean-up on Saturday, January 3rd, 8:30AM at the corner of C St and N Glover. Earn your community service or bring the family out for a fun and helpful activity!

RSVP at 619-738-4188.

City of Chula Vista Calendar of Events

Resources and References

Weekly Flu Vaccine Clinic

Get your flu shot in Chula Vista!

The Chula Vista Fire Department is offering FREE weekly flu vaccine clinics from now to March 24th, 2026 at the Civic Center Library.

Tuesdays, 10:00AM–2:00PM, 365 F Street, Chula Vista

• Ages 6 months & older
• For community members who are uninsured or under-insured
• Bring an ID with full name and date of birth

Click to schedule your appointment or scan the QR code.

E-Bike Ordinance

Enforcement Begins

Enforcement for the new E-Bike Ordinance in Chula Vista has started.

IMPORTANT:

• Riders must be 12+ to operate Class 1 or 2 e-bikes.
• No passengers unless the rider is 18+
• Class 1 & 2 e-bikes: no riding on sidewalks in business districts & signed areas
• Class 3 e-bikes: no riding on all sidewalks citywide

Helmets required for:

• All Class 3 riders
• Anyone under 18 on Class 1 or 2 e-bikes
• These updates build on California State Law to keep our streets and sidewalks safer for everyone.

Learn more: www.chulavistaca.gov/ebikes

Norman Park Senior Center

Monthly Newsletter



Stay up-to-date with recreational activities at Norman Park Senior Center by reading their monthly newsletter! Click to read the December issue.

Cooking Oil Disposal

Did you deep-fry a turkey or other food for the holidays, and still don’t know what to do with the leftover cooking oil? You are in luck!

The City of Chula Vista’s Household Hazardous Waste Facility takes your used cooking oil at no cost and keeps it out of the landfill. You can bring up to 15 gallons of used cooking oil per visit. They are open Wednesdays & Saturdays from 9:00AM to 1:00PM at 1800 Maxwell Road. 

Learn more.

Congregational Place Applications



Chula Vista's newest affordable senior housing is now accepting applications! Located at 305 E Street, Congregational Place will feature 55 one-bedroom apartments for individuals age 55 and above. The first floor will house San Ysidro Health, which will operate PACE. Rental fees range from $930-$1,860.

Download an application and mail it today! Or, input your information to have an application sent to you. Questions? Contact Congregational Place at 562-257-5100.

Chula Vista Museum

and History Center

**FREE TO THE PUBLIC**

Open Fridays from 1:00 to 4:30PM at 261 Garrett Ave, across from the Civic Center Library.

For more information, call 619-316-2642.

Casa Casillas

**FREE TO THE PUBLIC**

Stop by and visit Casa Casillas, Chula Vista’s newest artist space!

50 4th Ave, Chula Vista, CA 91910

(619) 585-5782

Hours:

Wednesday–Thursday | 12:00PM–7:00PM.

Friday–Saturday | 10:00AM–5:00PM

Sunday | 1:00PM–5:00PM

Monday–Tuesday | Closed

Explore local art, creativity, and community!

Follow on Facebook and Instagram for the latest art workshops.

FREE Bayfront Shuttle

Hop on the free Bayfront Shuttle! Chula Vista’s new Bayfront Shuttle is now running daily from 8:00AM to 6:00PM! This zero-emissions, all-electric shuttle makes it easier than ever to explore our scenic waterfront and more—from the Living Coast Discovery Center to Downtown Chula Vista and the newly opened Gaylord Pacific Resort.

Blue Line: Connects the Bayfront to E Street & H Street Transit Centers

Green Line: Connects the Bayfront to nearby key destinations

Visit chulavistaca.gov/bayfrontshuttle for more information.

Shallow Rental Subsidy Program

for Older Adults (55+)



The City has launched a Pilot Rental Subsidy Program to support older adult (55+) renters. This pilot initiative is part of the City’s ongoing efforts to expand housing stability, reduce displacement, and support aging in place for some of the community’s most vulnerable residents.

While the program has reached full capacity, we encourage you to add your name to the waitlist. This ensures you can be contacted if openings become available. Click to learn more.

From SDG&E: Energy-Saving Tip

Energy-saving tip: Use natural light. Take advantage of the sun’s natural heat by opening curtains and blinds during the day. This can help warm up your home without using extra energy.

Find more energy-saving tips at sdge.com/SimpleSteps.

Free Legal Research Assistance

Did you know you can receive free legal research assistance from a San Diego Law Librarian here in Chula Vista? Visit the Civic Center Library every 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month from 10AM-3PM to find resources for legal aid.

*Law librarians cannot give you legal advice, but they can guide you to resources and show you how to use them*

Chula Vista Reuse Center

Supply your household and reduce waste! The Chula Vista Reuse Center at 1800 Maxwell Rd offers a range of products, from full cans of paint to automotive fluids, household cleaners, and even propane canisters! **All products offered are full and unopened.**

Limits apply: Up to 15 gallons of paint and 5 household items per visit. One visit per month, first-come, first-served, while supplies last.

Questions? Contact 619-691-5122 or environmentalservices@chulavistaca.gov.

Living Coast & Museums for All

The Living Coast Discovery Center is now a member of Museums for All! Museums for All lets SNAP recipients enjoy free or discounted entry to over 1,400 U.S. museums with their EBT card.

Through this program, Living Coast admission tickets are just $3 per person for up to 4 people per EBT card. Learn more.

Support the California Coast



Councilmember Preciado is on the California Coastal Commission, representing the San Diego coast! One way to support the protection of the California coast and ocean is to purchase a Whale Tail Plate. The special plate funds non-profit groups doing important education and conservation work, provides free resources for educators, and empowers volunteers to take action to protect the coast. Order yours today!

Weekly Free Health Services

Chula Vista Community Collaborative teamed up with National University to provide FREE health services with a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner. Appointments are available weekly from 9:30AM to 3:30PM at the New Directions Family Resource Center. No Medi-Cal is needed. Make an appointment today.

Free Motor Oil Disposal

Chula Vista residents, who have single-family home trash and recycling service have the following options to recycle used motor oil and filters:

1. Bring used motor oil and filters to a Certified Used Oil Collection Center. Used Oil Collection Centers also provide FREE drain pans. Visit www.wastefreesd.org or call 1-800-237-2583 for the nearest location. *Used Oil Collection Centers will not accept used oil that has been contaminated with water, antifreeze, gasoline, etc.
2. Arrange for curbside collection by calling Republic Services at (619) 421-9400. Call at least 24 hours prior to your regular collection day.
3. Bring your used oil and filters to the Household Hazardous Waste Collection Facility for FREE.

• This facility will accept used oil that has been contaminated with water, antifreeze, gasoline, etc.

Chula Vista Disaster Preparedness

From the Chula Vista Disaster Council:

Click here to see how the City of Chula Vista is prepared for various natural disasters.

FREE Community Shuttle

Attention District 2! The City of Chula Vista has partnered with Circuit to provide residents aged 55+ with free rides within the limits of the Northwest (see map). Residents under 55 can ride for a fare of $2 per rider. Catch a ride to a doctor's appointment, the grocery store, to see a movie, and more!

Rides are ADA-accessible and door-to-door while using all-electric vehicles. As of February 2024, over 33,000 rides were given, with an average wait time of around 9 minutes.

To request a ride, download the Ride Circuit app or call 619-650-6386 and press option 7. Shuttle service is available Monday through Friday from 7:00AM to 7:00PM.

Submit a Service Request Today!

Did you know the City of Chula Vista has an official app for reporting non-emergency issues, such as graffiti, potholes, abandoned vehicles, and more? With ACT Chula Vista, you can upload photos, see nearby issues, and check on the status of your report.

Use ACT Chula Vista now!

File an Online Police Report

The Chula Vista Police Department has an online reporting tool for non-emergencies. Before reporting, make sure the incident meets ALL requirements below:



• This is not an emergency.
• This incident occurred within Chula Vista City limits.
• There are no known suspects.
• This did not occur on a state freeway.
• The incident falls under one of the following categories:

1. Harassing phone calls
2. Hit and runs
3. Identity theft
4. Lost property
5. Theft of property
6. Theft from a vehicle
7. Vandalism
8. Vehicle tampering

Click for more details.

Do You Know You Live in District 2?

Chula Vista's District 2 sits North of L Street and West of Paseo del Rey.

Contact our office -

General Inquiries: district2@chulavistaca.gov

Senior Council Aide: Diana Quintero - dquintero@chulavistaca.gov

Important Contacts

Code Enforcement Violations -

619-691-5280

ex. sewage spills, junk, zoning

Public Works Non-Emergency -

Download ACT App or 619-397-6000

ex. graffiti, potholes, tree trimming

In Case of Emergency - dial 9-1-1

Non Emergency - 619-691-5151

CVPD Traffic Unit - 619-476-5320

Fire Administration - 619-691-5055

Animal Care - 619-691-5123

CV Senior Connect - 619-409-1932

Parks & Recreation - 619-409-5979

Homeless Services - homelessness@chulavistaca.gov

Affordable Housing Programs -

619-691-5047

Republic Services - 619-421-9400

SDG&E - 1-800-411-7343

Sewer Billing - 619-691-5117

District 2 Office - 619-585-5713

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