Events & Festivals

Celebrate the season at the Beachside Fall Festival, where classic amusement park rides meet retro-themed fun for all ages. Enjoy live music and weekly pumpkin jams as you explore nostalgic displays and festive activities. This lively event offers a unique blend of seaside charm and autumn excitement, making it a...

The ocean's mysteries come to life as Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego casts a spell of science and seasonal fun with Halloween Aglow! This year's event takes place on October 23 and 24 from 6 to 8:30 p.m. for two unforgettable nights of Halloween...

On October 22, dive into an evening filled with cool science, hauntingly delicious drinks, live music and more during Oceans at Night: Halloween! This 21+ event features live entertainment, interactive games, a Kelp Forest Dive presentation and more! Tickets are $59.95 and go on sale Sept. 23.

A mile-long illuminated trail winds through the San Diego Botanic Garden, featuring more than 20 vibrant light installations created by artists from around the world. As you walk the path, you'll encounter a mix of new pieces and returning favorites, all set to lively music, with seasonal food and festive...

San Diego Beer Week in San Diego, California, is a celebrated 10-day event highlighting the city’s renowned independent craft beer scene. Hosted by the San Diego Brewers Guild, the festival brings together over 150 local breweries for a series of special events, including limited-edition beer releases, tap takeovers, and curated...

Niteharts is a multi-day festival taking place over three days in October 2026. The event offers a variety of performances and activities at Snapdragon Stadium. You can purchase tickets and pre-purchase parking to plan your visit.

Local makers, artists, and wellness practitioners gather at WorldBeat Cultural Center on the second Sunday of each month for this community market. You can browse handmade arts and crafts, unique clothing, plants, and organic produce while grabbing something delicious to eat. Massage services are also available, making it easy to...

Southern California's largest outdoor ice skating rink sets up each winter at the Viejas Outlet Center in Alpine, with a surface larger than the famed Rockefeller Center rink in New York. The surrounding grounds come alive with holiday lights, entertainment, and a seasonal water show, and you can also browse...

Board a vintage train at the Pacific Southwest Railway Museum for a 90-minute holiday journey through the San Diego backcountry. Elves lead sing-alongs and serve hot chocolate and cookies as the train winds toward the North Pole, where Santa and Mrs. Claus climb aboard to visit with every passenger. Trains...

A Thanksgiving morning tradition in Coronado, this 5K draws runners and walkers of all ages to a scenic route along San Diego Bay. The course at Tidelands Park makes for a festive way to start your holiday before the big meal. Registration tends to fill up quickly, with all proceeds...