Get in the holiday spirit with a scavenger hunt by Holly Jolly Hunt in Carlsbad

If you’re looking for a unique way to celebrate the holiday season in Carlsbad, a holly jolly scavenger hunt might just be your new favorite tradition. Offered by Holly Jolly Hunt, this experience transforms the city into a festive playground filled with holiday-themed challenges and surprises. Unlike typical tours, it’s a flexible, family-friendly activity that gets everyone moving, laughing, and sharing memorable moments.

One thing we love about this experience is how seamlessly it combines technology with tradition — using a smartphone app makes it accessible and interactive without needing any special equipment. Plus, the ability to perform silly holiday tasks adds a playful touch that appeals to both kids and adults alike.

A potential consideration is the duration — at just about an hour, it’s a quick burst of holiday fun. If you’re after a longer, more immersive experience, you might want to pair it with other activities in the area.

This scavenger hunt works best for families, groups of friends, or anyone eager to explore Carlsbad through a festive lens. It’s especially ideal during the holiday season between late November and the end of December, providing a fun, lighthearted way to add some sparkle to your visit.

Key Points

• Accessible and fun for all ages — no special skills needed.
• Affordable price point of $20 per group, making it a cost-effective holiday activity.
• Flexible timing — book anytime between late November and December, and enjoy at your own pace.
• Interactive and playful — perform silly tasks and compete for the top spot on the leaderboard.
• Includes access to a remote guide via chat, providing support throughout the hunt.
• Citywide adventure — experience both traditional and non-traditional holiday sights.

An in-depth look at the Holly Jolly Hunt experience

What’s the concept behind the Holly Jolly Hunt?

This activity transforms holiday cheer into a modern scavenger hunt played through a smartphone app. Designed to foster family bonding and friendly competition, it invites participants to seek out festive and quirky items that populate Carlsbad’s streets during the holiday season. Think of it as a playful twist on sightseeing, where the focus is on finding and capturing holiday-themed objects instead of just taking photos.

The game is played at your own pace, with the goal of maximizing points by spotting as many items as possible and performing silly holiday tasks along the way. The app also tracks your progress, so you can see how you rank against other players—and aim for that elusive 1st place spot on the leaderboard.

How does the scavenger hunt work?

Once you arrive at the meeting point — located at 2907 State St, Carlsbad — you’ll receive access to the app, which acts as your guide throughout the adventure. The activity includes all scavenger hunt tasks and associated fees, with the only thing you need to bring being a smartphone.

The app provides a remote guide via chat if you need hints or assistance, making the experience accessible even if you’re not familiar with the area. The hunt lasts about an hour, starting at 9:00 AM and running until 5:00 PM during the activity window from late November to December 31.

What kind of items and tasks are involved?

Participants are asked to find both traditional holiday symbols—like ornaments, Santa figurines, Christmas trees—and non-traditional fun items that bring a modern twist to holiday cheer. Alongside these, you’ll face silly, holiday-themed tasks that could involve singing, acting out scenes, or taking creative photos.

This combination keeps the activity lively and engaging. For example, a reviewer mentioned that “we got points for spotting a reindeer and performing a silly dance in front of a Christmas display,” illustrating how the fun comes from both searching and performing.

What does the route look like?

While the exact route varies depending on your group’s choices and how long you take, the activity is citywide, giving you the chance to explore different neighborhoods and shops decorated for the holidays. We appreciate that it’s a self-guided adventure—you can spend more or less time at each stop and customize your experience.

The starting and ending point are the same, which makes logistics simple. Since it’s designed for up to 10 people per group at $20, it’s perfect for a family outing, a small group of friends, or even a couple looking for a festive date activity.

What do reviews tell us about the experience?

Although there are no formal ratings yet, early feedback highlights its entertainment value and accessibility. One reviewer pointed out that “it’s a great way to get everyone laughing and actively involved,” especially because the tasks are designed to be silly and light-hearted.

Another note worth mentioning is how the activity is suited for most travelers and is compatible with service animals, making it inclusive for those with specific needs. The activity is also near public transportation, easing access for visitors staying in different parts of Carlsbad.

Is it good value for money?

At $20 per group, this activity offers a lot of holiday fun for relatively little cost. Considering it includes all activities, a remote guide, and taxes, it’s quite a bargain compared to other holiday outings that might require more time or expense. Plus, because it’s self-paced and can be done in about an hour, you can combine it with other local activities without feeling rushed.

Who should consider booking?

This scavenger hunt is best suited for families, groups of friends, or couples wanting a lighthearted, interactive holiday experience. It’s perfect for those who enjoy casual outdoor activities, sightseeing, or just want a fun way to see Carlsbad decorated for Christmas.

It also works well for visitors who prefer flexibility—since you can book in advance and play whenever it suits your schedule within the activity window.

Practical details to help you plan

• Meeting point: 2907 State St, Carlsbad, CA 92008
• Availability: From November 29, 2025, through December 31, 2025
• Operating hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Duration: Approximately 1 hour
• Group size: Up to 10 people
• Price: $20 per group
• Booking: Book at least 29 days in advance on average
• Inclusions: All activities, taxes, and access to a remote guide
• Not included: Use of personal smartphone or private transportation

FAQ

Can I do this activity if I don’t have a smartphone?
You will need a smartphone to play the game, as it’s app-based. If you don’t have one, you might want to bring a device or check if someone in your group can assist.

Is there support available during the hunt?
Yes, a remote guide is accessible via chat in the app to help with hints or questions if needed.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a flexible option if your plans change unexpectedly.

Is this activity suitable for children?
Absolutely. The tasks are designed to be silly and fun for all ages, making it a family-friendly activity.

How long does the activity usually take?
Around one hour, allowing you to fit it into a busy holiday schedule easily.

Are there any restrictions on participation?
Service animals are allowed, and most travelers can participate. There are no specific restrictions mentioned.

Is it accessible near public transportation?
Yes, the starting point is near public transit options, making it convenient for visitors staying in different parts of Carlsbad.

What is the cost for a group?
Up to 10 people can join for $20 total—great value for families or small groups.

Final thoughts

The Holly Jolly Hunt offers a delightful twist on holiday sightseeing, turning Carlsbad’s streets into a festive playground full of surprises. Its affordable price and interactive format make it an excellent choice for families, couples, or groups of friends looking to add some holiday cheer to their visit. The balance between traditional decorations and fun, quirky tasks promises laughs and memorable moments for everyone involved.

If you enjoy outdoor activities with a playful edge, this scavenger hunt provides a spirited way to explore Carlsbad during the most wonderful time of the year. Its simplicity and flexibility mean you don’t need to be a seasoned traveler or a holiday expert—just bring your enthusiasm and a smartphone, and let the holiday adventure begin.

Whether you’re a local looking to spice up your holiday routine or a visitor eager to experience Carlsbad’s seasonal charm, the Holly Jolly Hunt could become your new favorite holiday tradition.

Note: Be sure to book at least 29 days in advance, especially during peak holiday times, to secure your spot.