Your Guide to Can’t-Miss Events and Attractions
San Diego is buzzing with activities this summer, offering everything from concerts by the bay to immersive experiences at iconic attractions. Here’s a chronological rundown of the top summer events you won’t want to miss, with fresh August updates to keep your calendar packed with excitement.
June Highlights
Toyota Summer Concert Series (June 12 – July 7, 2024) Kick off the summer with the Toyota Summer Concert Series at the San Diego County Fair. This premier event features internationally known artists performing nightly on the Heineken Grandstand Stage. Experience the best in entertainment amidst the lively atmosphere of the fair.
San Diego Smooth Jazz Festival (June 22-23, 2024) Immerse yourself in the soothing sounds of smooth jazz at this two-day festival. Alongside great music, enjoy a variety of delicious cuisine and an atmosphere that’s perfect for relaxing.
Ocean Beach Street Fair & Chili Cook-Off Festival (June 22, 2024) Enjoy oceanfront fun at the annual Ocean Beach Street Fair, featuring a chili cook-off, live music, carnival rides, food vendors, and more. It’s a perfect day out by the beach for all ages.
Conrad Prebys 2023 Season at The Rady Shell @ Jacobs Park (June 28 – September 21, 2024) Experience an exciting lineup of music and movies at the picturesque waterfront concert venue, the Rady Shell. Enjoy performances under the stars in this stunning location.
Concerts at Petco Park (Starting June 30, 2024) Petco Park isn’t just for baseball fans this summer. Catch arena tours featuring blink-182, Def Leppard, Journey, and P!NK, along with indie concerts at Gallagher Square.
Nighttime Zoo at the San Diego Zoo (May 24 to September 2, 2024) Explore the San Diego Zoo after dark and experience live music, unique entertainment, and extended hours to see the animals in a whole new light.
Summer Safari Experiences at San Diego Zoo Safari Park (May – mid-August 2024) Dive into adventure with safaris like the Flightline Safari and Roar & Snore Safari. Enjoy the park’s live music and entertainment, all set in the stunning wildlife oasis of Escondido.
Sesame Summer Splash at Sesame Place San Diego (May 24 – September 2, 2024) Enjoy family-friendly fun with Sesame Street-themed rides, water attractions, and special events throughout the summer. This park is a certified autism center, offering accommodations for all visitors.
July Fun
Athenaeum Music & Arts Library’s Summer Festival (July 7 – 28, 2024) Join the cherished tradition of the Athenaeum Summer Festival, featuring pianist Gustavo Romero in a series of concerts dedicated to one famous composer each summer. Optional dinners with Romero follow each concert.
Holo Holo Music Festival (July 13 – 14, 2024) Celebrate island and reggae music over two jam-packed days. Enjoy performances by artists like J Boog, FIJI, Maoli, and Katchafire, alongside great food and company.
San Diego Bayfest (July 20, 2024) Celebrate San Diego’s beach culture at the Bayfest, featuring music, delicious food, and beverages. Embrace the coastal vibe with live performances and local delicacies.
San Diego Pride Parade (July 20, 2024) Join over 100,000 cheering spectators for one of the largest Pride parades in the United States. Celebrate diversity and inclusion with vibrant festivities and significant media coverage.
Cardiff Dog Days of Summer (July 21, 2024) Bring your furry friends to Cardiff-by-the-Sea for a celebration of dogs and dog lovers. Enjoy a day filled with pet-friendly activities in this beautiful beach community.
La Jolla Music Society SummerFest (July 26 – August 24, 2024) Experience more than 80 world-class classical artists and ensembles at the La Jolla Music Society’s SummerFest. Concerts will be held at the Conrad Prebys Concert Hall at UC San Diego.
Ramona Country Fair (July 26-28, 2024) Enjoy family fun with rides, carnival games, vendors, food, and entertainment at the Ramona Country Fair. It’s a great way to experience the local community spirit.
August Adventures
Hillcrest CityFest Street Fair (August 11, 2024) Celebrate community spirit in the heart of Hillcrest under the iconic Hillcrest sign. Enjoy music, arts, crafts, and delicious food at this lively street fair.
Chula Vista Lemon Festival (August 17, 2024) Experience zest at the Lemon Festival with live music, a lemon cookoff, kids’ zone, arts and crafts vendors, and a wine and beer garden. It’s a day full of citrus-themed fun.
Humphreys Concerts by the Bay (Now – November 16, 2024) Catch top entertainers performing on an outdoor stage next to the picturesque marina at Humphreys Half Moon Inn on Shelter Island. This long-running concert series offers a perfect summer night out.
Summer Concerts by the Water at The Rady Shell (Throughout Summer 2024) Enjoy big-name artists across multiple genres at this stunning waterfront venue, the summer home of the San Diego Symphony. Don’t miss favorites like Ziggy Marley and themed symphony concerts.
Beaches and Aquatic Adventures (Throughout Summer 2024) San Diego’s beaches are among the best in the nation, perfect for swimming, surfing, snorkeling, or just relaxing. Discover the beauty of La Jolla Cove, Mission Bay Park, and designated dog beaches.
Belmont Park Beachfront Fun (Throughout Summer 2024) Spend summer days at San Diego’s only beachfront amusement park. Enjoy classic rides, ziplining, laser tag, and oceanfront dining as Belmont Park gears up for its 100th anniversary.
USS Midway Museum 20th Anniversary (Throughout Summer 2024) Celebrate the USS Midway Museum’s 20th anniversary with a visit to this historic aircraft carrier. Explore the museum’s exhibits and enjoy the stunning views from the flight deck.
Maritime Museum of San Diego (Throughout Summer 2024) Tour historic ships like the Star of India and the USS Dolphin submarine. Enjoy the Maritime Museum’s educational exhibits and scenic waterfront location.
Cabrillo National Monument (Throughout Summer 2024) Visit this landmark for panoramic views and a deep dive into San Diego’s natural, historical, and cultural history. Explore the tidepools, lighthouse, and museum.
Birch Aquarium ‘Hold Fast’ Exhibition (Throughout Summer 2024) Discover the intersection of art and environmental awareness with the Birch Aquarium’s “Hold Fast” exhibition. Explore San Diego’s kelp forests through immersive art installations.
From music festivals and concerts to cultural celebrations and beach adventures, San Diego has something for everyone this summer. Mark your calendars and make the most of these fantastic events!
