Animated Painting
Through January 13.  San Diego Museum of Art.  1450 El Prado, Balboa Park.  Animated Painting  features 25 cinematic works by 14 international contemporary artists adapting traditional painting and drawing methods to the concepts and technologies of animation.  619-232-7931.  www.sdmart.org.
Wheelchair Accessible.

Dead Sea Scrolls
Through December 31.  San Diego Natural History Museum.  1788 El Prado, San Diego.  Ancient.  Authentic. Amazing.  Travel back in time two millenia and experience for yourself 27 Dead Sea Scrolls exclusively at Balboa Park in San Diego.  877-946-7797.  www.sdnhm.org.
Wheelchair Accessible.

December Nights
December 7 - 8.  5 - 10pm.  Balboa Park.  1549 El Prado, San Diego.
This popular, park-wide holiday event features sparkling lights, color and music with traditional celebrations and three holiday-themed entertainment areas.  And in the spirit of the holidays, participating Balboa Park museums open their doors free of charge.  619-239-0512. 

Garden of Lights
December 7 - 9, 13 - 23, and 26 - 30.  5 - 9pm.  Quail Botanical Gardens.  230 Quail Gardens Drive, Encinitas.  Take a stroll through the Gardens and experience the radiance of more than 90,000 sparkling lights illuminating plants and trees.  Plus, enjoy horse-drawn wagon rides through garden paths, marshmallow roasting, a visit with Santa and crafts for all ages.  760-436-3036.  www.qbgardens.org.
Wheelchair Accessible.