SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) -- Football players from the two teams facing off in the DIRECTV Holiday Bowl spent a few hours Wednesday morning celebrating Christmas at SeaWorld San Diego. The amusement park hosted players from Washington State and Syracuse universities, as well as coaching staff, taking them through a number of thrilling rides and attractions and educating them about animal welfare. A parade, 5K and tailgate party: San Diego ramps up for Holiday Bowl A selected group of players from Washington State University got up close and personal with the California sea lions, while some from Syracuse interacted with the dolphins and learned how the park's specialists care for them. Other activities taking place leading up to the big game include the Snapdragon Bowl Bash in downtown San Diego as well as the annual Holiday Bowl Parade, set to take place along the harbor front. The teams will play at Snapdragon Stadium on Friday, Dec. 27. Kickoff is scheduled for 5 p.m. Pacific Standard Time (8 p.m. Eastern).