Events
Events
A Year-Round Guide for 2024-2025
San Diego, California, is a vibrant city known for its beautiful beaches, sunny weather, and diverse cultural offerings. Its dynamic event calendar makes it a year-round destination for travelers. From world-class music festivals and cultural celebrations to unique local traditions and seasonal festivities, San Diego’s events offer something for everyone. This guide provides a detailed look at the notable events happening in San Diego throughout 2024 and 2025, highlighting what makes each event special and offering practical information to help you plan your visit.
January
San Diego Brew Fest
- Dates: January 6, 2025
- Location: Liberty Station, 2455 Cushing Rd, San Diego, CA 92106
- Contact Information: (619) 756-7992
- Description: The San Diego Brew Fest is an annual celebration of craft beer, featuring unlimited samples from over 70 breweries, food trucks, and live music. The event showcases local brewers and provides a vibrant atmosphere for beer enthusiasts.
- Highlights: Sample a wide variety of craft beers, enjoy gourmet food from local food trucks, and listen to live music performances.
Farmers Insurance Open
- Dates: January 22-28, 2025
- Location: Torrey Pines Golf Course, 11480 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037
- Contact Information: (858) 452-3226
- Description: This prestigious PGA Tour event attracts top golfers from around the world. Held at the scenic Torrey Pines Golf Course, the tournament offers thrilling golf action against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean.
- Highlights: Watch world-class golfers compete, enjoy beautiful coastal views, and participate in various fan activities.
San Diego Restaurant Week
- Dates: January 12-21, 2025
- Location: Various locations across San Diego
- Contact Information: (619) 233-5008
- Description: San Diego Restaurant Week is a biannual culinary event featuring over 180 participating restaurants offering special prix-fixe menus. It’s a fantastic opportunity to explore the city’s diverse culinary scene.
- Highlights: Enjoy multi-course meals at discounted prices, discover new restaurants, and savor a variety of cuisines.
February
San Diego Jewish Film Festiva
- Dates: February 6-16, 2025
- Location: Lawrence Family Jewish Community Center, 4126 Executive Dr, La Jolla, CA 92037
- Contact Information: (858) 457-3030
- Description: Celebrating its rich history, the San Diego Jewish Film Festival showcases a diverse array of films that explore Jewish identity, culture, and history.
- Highlights: Film screenings, guest speakers, panel discussions, and special events.
San Diego Mardi Gras
- Dates: February 25, 2025
- Location: Gaslamp Quarter, 614 5th Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
- Contact Information: (619) 233-5227
- Description: San Diego’s Mardi Gras celebration in the historic Gaslamp Quarter features a lively parade, live music, and vibrant street performances. The event transforms the district into a festive carnival atmosphere.
- Highlights: Parade with elaborate floats, live entertainment, and costume contests.
San Diego Tet Festival
- Dates: February 7-9, 2025
- Location: Mira Mesa Community Park, 8575 New Salem St, San Diego, CA 92126
- Contact Information: (858) 215-4838
- Description: The San Diego Tet Festival celebrates the Vietnamese Lunar New Year with cultural performances, traditional food, and family-friendly activities.
- Highlights: Lion dances, cultural exhibits, Vietnamese cuisine, and carnival rides.
March
San Diego Comic Fest
- Dates: March 6-9, 2025
- Location: Four Points by Sheraton, 8110 Aero Dr, San Diego, CA 92123
- Contact Information: (858) 277-8888
- Description: San Diego Comic Fest is an intimate and fan-friendly comic convention that celebrates comics, science fiction, and pop culture. The event features panels, artist alley, and special guest appearances.
- Highlights: Panels with industry professionals, artist alley, cosplay contests, and vendor exhibits.
St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Festival
- Dates: March 15, 2025
- Location: Balboa Park, 1549 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101
- Contact Information: (619) 234-0739
- Description: San Diego’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Festival is a festive celebration of Irish culture. The event includes a parade, live music, dance performances, and family-friendly activities.
- Highlights: Parade with marching bands and floats, Irish dancing, food vendors, and kids’ zone.
San Diego Latino Film Festival
- Dates: March 12-22, 2025
- Location: AMC Fashion Valley 18, 7037 Friars Rd, San Diego, CA 92108
- Contact Information: (619) 230-1938
- Description: This annual film festival showcases Latino filmmakers and their works, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Latin America.
- Highlights: Film screenings, Q&A sessions with filmmakers, and special events.
April
La Jolla Concours d’Elegance
- Dates: April 12-13, 2025
- Location: Ellen Browning Scripps Park, 1133 Coast Blvd, La Jolla, CA 92037
- Contact Information: (619) 233-5008
- Description: La Jolla Concours d’Elegance is a prestigious car show featuring classic automobiles, exquisite designs, and vintage motorcycles.
- Highlights: Display of rare and historic vehicles, awards ceremony, and VIP hospitality suites.z
Mission Federal ArtWalk
- Dates: April 26-27, 2025
- Location: Little Italy, San Diego, CA 92101
- Contact Information: (619) 615-1090
- Description: Mission Federal ArtWalk is San Diego’s largest and longest-running art festival, showcasing works from local, national, and international artists.
- Highlights: Art displays, live music, interactive art activities, and food vendors.
San Diego EarthFair
- Dates: April 20, 2025
- Location: Balboa Park, 1549 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101
- Contact Information: (858) 272-7370
- Description: San Diego EarthFair is one of the largest free environmental fairs in the world, featuring exhibitors, entertainment, and educational activities.
- Highlights: Eco-friendly products, environmental organizations, live music, and kids’ activities.
May
Gator By The Bay
- Dates: May 8-11, 2025
- Location: Spanish Landing Park, 3900 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
- Contact Information: (619) 234-8612
- Description: Gator By The Bay is a lively festival celebrating Louisiana culture with live music, dancing, and authentic Cajun and Creole cuisine.
- Highlights: Zydeco and blues bands, dance lessons, and a crawfish boil.
San Diego Surf Film Festival
- Dates: May 16-18, 2025
- Location: Misfit Gallery, 565 Pearl St, La Jolla, CA 92037
- Contact Information: (858) 454-3541
- Description: The San Diego Surf Film Festival showcases surf films from around the world, celebrating the surf culture and lifestyle.
- Highlights: Film screenings, Q&A sessions, and surf art exhibits.
Fiesta Old Town Cinco de Mayo
- Dates: May 2-4, 2025
- Location: Old Town San Diego, 4002 Wallace St, San Diego, CA 92110
- Contact Information: (619) 291-4903
- Description: This vibrant celebration of Mexican culture features live music, traditional dance performances, and authentic Mexican cuisine.
- Highlights: Mariachi bands, folklorico dancers, and a car show.
June
San Diego County Fair
- Dates: June 7 – July 4, 2024
- Location: Del Mar Fairgrounds, 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd, Del Mar, CA 92014
- Contact Information: (858) 755-1161
- Description: The San Diego County Fair is a massive event featuring carnival rides, live entertainment, agricultural exhibits, and delicious fair food.
- Highlights: Concerts, rides, animal shows, and food competitions.
Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon
- Dates: June 2, 2024
- Location: Balboa Park, 1549 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101
- Contact Information: (800) 311-1255
- Description: This popular marathon attracts runners from all over the world, with live music along the course and a festive post-race concert.
- Highlights: Live bands along the race route, cheer zones, and a finish line festival.
San Diego International Boat Show
- Dates: June 20-23, 2024
- Location: Spanish Landing Park, 3900 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
- Contact Information: (858) 633-5393
- Description: The San Diego International Boat Show showcases the latest in boating and marine products, with exhibits, seminars, and on-water activities.
- Highlights: Boat displays, sailing lessons, and marine product demonstrations.
July
San Diego Comic-Con International
- Dates: July 18-21, 2024
- Location: San Diego Convention Center, 111 W Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
- Contact Information: (619) 525-5000
- Description: Comic-Con is the largest comic and pop culture convention in the world, featuring panels, celebrity appearances, and exclusive merchandise.
- Highlights: Cosplay contests, panel discussions, and sneak peeks of upcoming films and TV shows.
Big Bay Boom
- Dates: July 4, 2024
- Location: San Diego Bay, San Diego, CA
- Contact Information: (619) 686-6200
- Description: Big Bay Boom is San Diego’s spectacular Independence Day fireworks show, with fireworks launched from multiple barges in the bay.
- Highlights: Fireworks display synchronized to music, viewing from various locations around the bay.
Over-the-Line Tournament
- Dates: July 13-14 and July 20-21, 2024
- Location: Fiesta Island, San Diego, CA 92109
- Contact Information: (619) 881-4565
- Description: This unique beach softball tournament is a San Diego tradition, featuring teams of three and a festive beach party atmosphere.
- Highlights: Competitive games, beach parties, and creative team costumes.
August
Tiki Oasis
- Dates: August 8-11, 2024
- Location: Crowne Plaza Hotel, 2270 Hotel Cir N, San Diego, CA 92108
- Contact Information: (619) 297-1101
- Description: Tiki Oasis is the largest and longest-running Tiki event in the world, celebrating Polynesian pop culture with music, art, and cocktails.
- Highlights: Tiki-themed parties, live music, art exhibits, and a marketplace.
Imperial Beach Sandcastle Competition
- Dates: August 3-4, 2024
- Location: Imperial Beach, CA 91932
- Contact Information: (619) 424-3151
- Description: This annual competition showcases incredible sand sculptures created by professional and amateur artists.
- Highlights: Sand sculpture displays, live entertainment, and family activities.
Latin Food Fest
- Dates: August 16-17, 2024
- Location: Embarcadero Marina Park North, 400 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101
- Contact Information: (619) 312-1212
- Description: Latin Food Fest is a culinary celebration of Latin cuisine, featuring tastings, cooking demos, and live entertainment.
- Highlights: Gourmet food tastings, chef demos, and live music.
September
San Diego Blues Festival
- Dates: September 7, 2024
- Location: Embarcadero Marina Park North, 400 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101
- Contact Information: (619) 299-7012
- Description: The San Diego Blues Festival features performances by top blues musicians, with proceeds benefiting the San Diego Food Bank.
- Highlights: Live blues music, food vendors, and craft beer.
San Diego Bayfair
- Dates: September 13-15, 2024
- Location: Mission Bay, San Diego, CA
- Contact Information: (760) 789-8870
- Description: San Diego Bayfair is a premier powerboat racing event, featuring thrilling races, live music, and family-friendly activities.
- Highlights: Powerboat races, food vendors, and kids’ zone.
Cabrillo Festival
- Dates: September 28-29, 2024
- Location: Cabrillo National Monument, 1800 Cabrillo Memorial Dr, San Diego, CA 92106
- Contact Information: (619) 557-5450
- Description: The Cabrillo Festival celebrates the landing of Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo in San Diego Bay, with cultural performances and historical reenactments.
- Highlights: Living history demonstrations, traditional dances, and educational exhibits.
October
La Jolla Art & Wine Festival
- Dates: October 12-13, 2024
- Location: Girard Ave & Prospect St, La Jolla, CA 92037
- Contact Information: (619) 233-5008
- Description: This free festival showcases fine art, wine, and beer from local and international artists and vintners.
- Highlights: Art displays, wine and beer tastings, and live music.
San Diego Film Festival
- Dates: October 15-20, 2024
- Location: Various venues in downtown San Diego
- Contact Information: (619) 818-2221
- Description: The San Diego Film Festival features a diverse selection of films, including premieres, documentaries, and independent films.
- Highlights: Film screenings, panel discussions, and celebrity appearances.
CRSSD Festival
- Dates: October 5-6, 2024
- Location: Waterfront Park, 1600 Pacific Hwy, San Diego, CA 92101
- Contact Information: (619) 531-1534
- Description: CRSSD Festival is a biannual electronic music festival featuring top DJs and live acts in a scenic waterfront setting.
- Highlights: Live electronic music, craft beer, and food vendors.
November
San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival
- Dates: November 10-17, 2024
- Location: Various locations throughout San Diego
- Contact Information: (619) 312-1212
- Description: This week-long festival celebrates San Diego’s culinary scene with wine tastings, cooking classes, and gourmet dining events.
- Highlights: Grand tasting event, celebrity chef appearances, and wine seminars.
San Diego Veterans Day Parade
- Dates: November 11, 2024
- Location: Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA
- Contact Information: (619) 239-2300
- Description: This annual parade honors military veterans with marching bands, floats, and military displays.
- Highlights: Parade with military units, vintage military vehicles, and patriotic performances.
Mother Goose Parade
- Dates: November 24, 2024
- Location: Main Street, El Cajon, CA 92020
- Contact Information: (619) 444-8712
- Description: The Mother Goose Parade is one of the largest parades in San Diego County, featuring colorful floats, marching bands, and character appearances.
- Highlights: Floats, marching bands, and family-friendly entertainment.
December
December Nights
- Dates: December 6-7, 2024
- Location: Balboa Park, 1549 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101
- Contact Information: (619) 239-0512
- Description: December Nights is a festive holiday event featuring light displays, live music, and food from around the world.
- Highlights: Holiday lights, international food, and cultural performances.
Parade of Lights
- Dates: December 8 & 15, 2024
- Location: San Diego Bay, San Diego, CA
- Contact Information: (619) 224-2240
- Description: The Parade of Lights is a holiday boat parade featuring beautifully decorated boats cruising through San Diego Bay.
- Highlights: Festively decorated boats, viewing from various locations around the bay.
San Diego Holiday Bowl
- Dates: December 27, 2024
- Location: Snapdragon Stadium, 9449 Friars Rd, San Diego, CA 92108
- Contact Information: (619) 283-5808
- Description: The Holiday Bowl is an exciting college football bowl game held annually in San Diego.
- Highlights: Pre-game festivities, marching bands, and a thrilling football game.
Getting to the Events
- Public Transportation: San Diego offers convenient public transport options through MTS buses and trolleys.
- Parking: Many events have designated parking areas. It’s advisable to arrive early to secure a spot.
- Accessibility: Most event locations are accessible to people with disabilities. Contact the event organizers for specific accessibility information.
Accommodation Recommendations
During peak event times, hotels can fill up quickly. Consider booking well in advance. Recommended areas to stay include downtown San Diego, La Jolla, and Mission Valley, all of which offer a range of accommodations from budget-friendly to luxury.
Insider Tips
- Best Times to Attend: Arrive early to avoid crowds and get the best spots for viewing and participation.
- Local Customs: Respect local traditions and practices, especially during cultural and historical events.
- Other Attractions: While attending events, explore nearby attractions like Balboa Park, the San Diego Zoo, and the USS Midway Museum.
Safety and Comfort
- Stay Safe: Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Keep your belongings secure.
- Dress Appropriately: Wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for the weather and type of event.
- Stay Hydrated: Bring water, especially for outdoor events. Many events also have food and drink vendors.
Planning Your Visit
San Diego’s rich event calendar offers something for everyone, from cultural celebrations and music festivals to sporting events and food fairs. Each event provides a unique opportunity to experience the city’s vibrant culture and community. Plan your visit to coincide with these events for an enhanced travel experience that showcases the best of San Diego. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s always something new and exciting happening in this beautiful coastal city. Enjoy your time in San Diego and make the most of its incredible events!
Ticket Purchasing and Pricing
- San Diego Brew Fest: Tickets are available online starting at $50. VIP tickets are $75.
- Farmers Insurance Open: Ticket prices vary; general admission starts at $60. Tickets can be purchased online or at the event.
- San Diego Restaurant Week: No tickets required; prix-fixe menus range from $20-$60.
- San Diego Jewish Film Festival: Tickets are available online or at the box office, with prices ranging from $12-$15 per film.
- San Diego Mardi Gras: General admission is $30; VIP tickets are $70, available online.
- San Diego Tet Festival: Free entry; some activities may require a fee.
- San Diego Comic Fest: Tickets available online, ranging from $20-$50.
- St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Festival: Free entry; some activities may require a fee.
- San Diego Latino Film Festival: Tickets are available online or at the box office, with prices ranging from $10-$15 per film.
- La Jolla Concours d’Elegance: General admission tickets are $65; VIP tickets are $150.
- Mission Federal ArtWalk: Free entry.
- San Diego EarthFair: Free entry.
- Gator By The Bay: Tickets range from $30-$35 for single-day entry; available online.
- San Diego Surf Film Festival: Tickets range from $15-$25 per screening; available online.
- Fiesta Old Town Cinco de Mayo: Free entry; some activities may require a fee.
- San Diego County Fair: General admission starts at $15; tickets can be purchased online or at the event.
- Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon: Registration fees range from $100-$150; register online.
- San Diego International Boat Show: Tickets range from $15-$20; available online or at the event.
- San Diego Comic-Con International: Tickets range from $50-$75 per day; available online (highly competitive).
- Big Bay Boom: Free viewing.
- Over-the-Line Tournament: Free entry.
- Tiki Oasis: Tickets range from $25-$100; available online.
- Imperial Beach Sandcastle Competition: Free entry.
- Latin Food Fest: Tickets range from $15-$30; available online.
- San Diego Blues Festival: Tickets range from $20-$50; available online.
- San Diego Bayfair: Tickets range from $20-$30; available online.
- Cabrillo Festival: Free entry.
- La Jolla Art & Wine Festival: Free entry; wine and beer garden access starts at $35.
- San Diego Film Festival: Tickets range from $12-$15 per film; available online.
- CRSSD Festival: Tickets range from $135-$300; available online.
- San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival: Ticket prices vary; events range from $50-$200.
- San Diego Veterans Day Parade: Free entry.
- Mother Goose Parade: Free entry.
- December Nights: Free entry.
- Parade of Lights: Free viewing.
- San Diego Holiday Bowl: Ticket prices vary; general admission starts at $40.