As the summer heats up in San Diego, forecasted highs in the 70s invite locals and visitors alike to savor the outdoors.
This weekend marks the return of some marquee events in the area including the Over The Line World Championships, Beethoven by the Bay, and the University of San Diego Wine Classic.
For those who want to indulge in outdoor activities, don’t miss the Marine Band San Diego’s annual performance in Little Italy, along with the launch of the Friday night concert series at Point Loma Park.
If you’d rather escape the sun, movie buffs can enjoy retro film screenings at Balboa Theatre, or explore artistic tributes to Studio Ghibli at Thumbprint Gallery’s Cats & Castles exhibition.
Here’s a comprehensive list of the best activities happening in San Diego this weekend:
### Food & Drink Events in San Diego This Weekend
**Malibu Barbie Cafe Pop-Up**
Opening July 11
Kick off your weekend by stepping into the vibrant world of Barbie at the Malibu Barbie Cafe, which opens at Bayside Kitchen and Bar this Friday.
This pop-up café is designed to be a pink paradise filled with exclusive merchandise, photo opportunities, and a unique menu from chef Becky Brown.
Visitors can enjoy skating on a mini-rink for a $1 donation to Girls Inc.
Tickets starting at $25 include 90 minutes of seating, a $10 food credit, and a $5 merchandise credit. Children aged 2 and under are free.
**2137 Pacific Highway, Little Italy**
**Summer Bash at Jitters Coffee Pub**
July 12
Join Jitters Coffee Pub for a Summer Bash this Saturday from noon to 5 p.m.
The revitalized coffee shop, now with renovations and a fresh plant-based menu crafted by Felix Alcaide, promises a fun-filled day with live music, vegan fish tacos, and local vendors.
This event is free to attend.
**510 North Coast Highway, Oceanside**
**University of San Diego Wine Classic**
July 12
Wine enthusiasts can look forward to the University of San Diego Wine Classic, taking place in the scenic Garden of the Sea from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
With over 20 wineries from California and beyond, guests will enjoy unlimited tastings, gourmet food, and live music.
This fundraising event supports the school’s Alumni Endowed Scholarship Fund and includes auction items, a commemorative wine glass, and free parking.
Tickets are priced at $145, increasing to $165 on the day of the event.
**5998 Alcala Park, Morena**
### Concerts & Festivals in San Diego This Weekend
**Point Loma Summer Concerts**
Fridays from July 11 – August 8
Don’t miss the Point Loma Summer Concerts, a cherished tradition celebrating 25 years of free Friday night shows in Point Loma Park.
Kicking off this series is a performance by the George Harrison tribute band By George at 6:30 p.m., alongside Against the Grain at 5:30 p.m., topped with a patriotic performance from Anna & Rice.
Enjoy the lively atmosphere with catering from the Point Loma Farmers Market.
**1049 Catalina Boulevard, Point Loma**
**Soulja Boy & Bow Wow at Bayside Amphitheater**
July 12
The Summer Spectacular Concert Series at SeaWorld San Diego welcomes two hip-hop icons, Soulja Boy and Bow Wow, this Saturday at 6 p.m.
Fans can expect exciting performances from both stars, with all concert series performances included with park admission.
For those wanting reserved seating, upgrades are available for $70 or VIP seating for $95.
**500 SeaWorld Drive, Mission Bay**
**Marine Band San Diego Summer Concert**
July 12
This Saturday, the 35-piece Marine Band San Diego will perform a free concert in the Piazza della Famiglia at 7 p.m.
Marking 250 years of the U.S. Marine Corps, this concert will celebrate the best of American composers like John Philip Sousa and George Gershwin.
**523 West Date Street, Little Italy**
**Beethoven by the Bay at The Rady Shell**
July 13
A summer classic, Beethoven by the Bay returns to The Rady Shell, featuring the San Diego Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Marie Jacquot.
The performance, set for Sunday at 7:30 p.m., begins with the Overture to Coriolan and concludes with Beethoven’s Symphony No. 6, complemented by Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto played by violinist Clara-Jumi Kang.
Tickets are available from $54 to $130.
**222 Marina Park Way, Embarcadero**
### Theater & Art Exhibits in San Diego This Weekend
**Anastasia at Moonlight Amphitheatre**
July 9-26
Experience the enchanting story of Anastasia at the Moonlight Amphitheatre, where the musical adaptation of the animated film explores the myth of the Grand Duchess’s escape from her family’s tragic fate.
With a romantic storyline and uplifting soundtrack, this production promises to be enjoyable for all ages.
Tickets range from $45 to $67.
**1250 Vale Terrace Drive, Vista**
**Pippin at the Star Theatre**
July 11-20
Join the young prince Pippin in his quest for happiness through a series of whimsical exploits in this live stage adaptation.
The Star Theatre Company is presenting its version based on the acclaimed 2013 Broadway revival.
Expect acrobatic choreography and a live orchestra as well as opportunities for interactive audience engagement.
Tickets are priced between $22 and $32, with performances on Friday at 7:30 p.m., Saturday at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m.
**402 North Coast Highway, Oceanside**
**Cats & Castles: A Studio Ghibli Fan Art Show at Thumbprint Gallery**
July 11-26
Fans of Studio Ghibli can appreciate a unique exhibition at Thumbprint Gallery that showcases fan art influenced by the iconic animated films.
Cats & Castles features works from ten artists inspired by beloved titles such as My Neighbor Totoro and Spirited Away.
The exhibition will host a free opening reception this Friday from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.
**920 Kline Street, La Jolla**
**Conversations in Art: Dignity at the Museum of Photographic Arts**
July 11 – Jan. 4, 2026
This Conversations in Art initiative presents works exploring the theme of dignity from four local artists.
Featuring new pieces from artists Hugo Crosthwaite, Anthony Sigala, Cat Chiu Phillips, and Shinpei Takeda, attendees can dive deeper into this powerful theme beginning Thursday.
A celebration of the exhibition’s opening will include poetry readings from the AjA Project’s Back Alley Poets Club.
RSVP for the opening event to enjoy this enriching experience for free.
**1649 El Prado, Balboa Park**
**Hiding in Plain Site: Retrospective of an Unknown Artist at Union Hall Gallery**
July 12 – August 10
This exhibition unveils over 30 years of artwork by Joseph A. Henseler for public viewing.
With 88 original pieces and limited edition prints, visitors can explore a diverse array of artistic styles that highlight Henseler’s breadth of talent.
The opening night will offer live music, refreshments, and a Q&A with the artist Saturday from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
**2323 Broadway, Golden Hill**
**Jean Lowe, Abraham Razo and Kim MacConnel: Down with the Hierarchy! At Best Practice**
July 12 – August 16
Artists Jean Lowe, Abraham Razo, and Kim MacConnel combine different artistic practices in a collaborative installation showcasing elements of graffiti, florals, and unique furniture.
Down with the Hierarchy! breaks down traditional art classifications, promoting a captivating intersection of styles.
The exhibition will have a free reception with the artists on Saturday from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
**1955 Julian Avenue, Logan Heights**
### More Fun Things To Do in San Diego This Weekend
**The Basement Yard Experience at the Balboa Theatre**
July 10 & 11
Catch The Basement Yard Podcast live at the Balboa Theatre with hosts Joe Santagato and Frank Alvarez.
Their engaging and humorous performance features personal stories, debates, and audience interactions, making it a can’t-miss show.
Tickets for the two-night event are available for $64, with shows starting at 8 p.m.
**868 Fourth Avenue, Gaslamp**
**Over the Line World Championships at Fiesta Island Park**
July 12-20
Check out the 72nd annual Over the Line World Championships at Fiesta Island Park, showcasing local teams in spirited competitions on the sand.
Spectators are welcome, and those interested in joining the tournament can still register for a fee starting at $56.
**1590 E Mission Bay Drive, Mission Bay**
**Retro Rewind at the Balboa Theatre**
July 13
This Sunday, the Balboa Theatre presents a double feature as part of its Retro Rewind series, showcasing the beloved films The Goonies at 1 p.m. and The Lost Boys at 6 p.m.
Old school concessions and specialty cocktails themed around each film will enhance your cinematic experience.
Tickets range from $18 to $36 for these nostalgia-filled screenings.
**868 Fourth Avenue, Gaslamp**
Enjoy the exhilarating events happening in San Diego this weekend, whether out in the sun or mixing with arts and culture indoors.
There’s something for everyone to join in the summer fun.
image source from：sandiegomagazine
