San Diego is buzzing with activity this weekend, showcasing a variety of events that highlight the city’s vibrant culture and community spirit.
From the colorful festivities of San Diego Pride to the exhilarating races at the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
The weekend kicks off with San Diego Pride, a celebration of the LGBTQ community featuring a free Pride Parade on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Attendees can experience a multitude of events at the Pride Festival in Balboa Park, which includes four stages showcasing music, drag performances, and dance.
Headlining the festival are popular artists Kehlani and Kim Petras, with the event running from noon to 10 p.m. on Saturday and noon to 9 p.m. on Sunday.
Tickets for the festival start at $39 for a single-day pass and can reach up to $233 for a VIP weekend experience, highlighting the city’s commitment to inclusivity and celebration.
In addition to the Pride festivities, the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club celebrates its 86th summer season with Opening Day on Saturday.
With a vibrant atmosphere, spectators can witness horse racing from the Stretch Run or enjoy VIP experiences in designated areas such as The Grand or the Celebrity Grill.
Attendees are also encouraged to dress to impress for the Hats Contest, with awards for categories including Most Glamorous and Best Racing Theme.
Admission for Opening Day begins at $72, making it a perfect outing for race enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
For those who enjoy live performances, San Diego is hosting a variety of concerts this weekend.
The Driver Era, a popular alt-rock duo, will perform a concert at Gallagher Square on Wednesday at 7 p.m., with tickets starting at just $30.
On Friday, guests can immerse themselves in the tunes of Incubus at the North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre, where the band will perform their classic album “Morning View” in its entirety.
This concert is set to provide fans with an evening filled with nostalgia and engaging hits.
In the realm of food and drink, culinary enthusiasts can partake in Bill Oakley’s An American Culinary Curiosity Dinner series on July 15th and 16th.
The dinners will spotlight unique regional dishes, providing participants with an exquisite five-course meal at Ponyboy on Tuesday and a seven-course experience at Ballast Point Miramar on Wednesday.
Ticket prices for these exclusive dining events range from $114 to $120 per person, promising an adventurous culinary journey for all attendees.
Meanwhile, on Sunday, the Whiskey & Fire San Diego event at Liberty Station seeks to tantalize the taste buds of whiskey lovers and foodies alike.
This event, which runs from 4:15 p.m. to 7 p.m., will feature over 20 local chefs and more than 50 whiskey partners, offering samples and chef demos.
General admission tickets are available for $125, while VIP admission, providing early access, is priced at $175.
Art and theater lovers will also find plenty to engage with this weekend, with various productions showcasing both classic and modern themes.
“Steel Magnolias” will be performed at Lamplighters Community Theatre through August 3rd, showcasing the poignant tale of a group of Southern women in a Louisiana beauty salon.
Tickets for this heartfelt production are priced at $30.
Meanwhile, the musical comedy “A Gentleman’s Guide to Love & Murder” opens at North Coast Repertory Theatre on Wednesday, showcasing a mix of humor and intrigue with a devious succession plot.
Preview tickets are available for $65, while regular performances are $75, promising an entertaining theatrical experience.
For art enthusiasts, the exhibition “Water Stories” is on display until August 2nd at The Photographer’s Eye gallery, featuring works that explore important water issues in various contexts.
This exhibition showcases the work of notable artists like Stefan Frutiger, William Bay, and Terri Warpinski, and can be explored for free on Fridays and Saturdays.
Additionally, the Filipino American Friendship Festival is set to take place at NTC Park on July 19th, celebrating Filipino culture through music, food, and interactive activities.
This free festival will run from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and promises fun for all ages with entertainment, a karaoke stage, and a lumpia-eating contest.
As part of the ongoing San Diego Wellness Week, residents and visitors can also participate in various wellness activities around the city, culminating in a closing party at the Museum of Contemporary Art.
This week-long celebration of health and wellness will offer a plethora of interactive classes and experiences, suitable for individuals seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.
Finally, film aficionados can catch a special screening of the cult classic “To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar” at UltraStar Mission Valley Cinemas on July 16th, celebrating its 30-year legacy in LGBTQ cinema.
Tickets for this nostalgic film screening are available for $16, promising a night of entertainment and community engagement.
For sports fans, San Diego FC will host two home matches this week, battling against Toronto FC and Vancouver Whitecaps at Snapdragon Stadium, with tickets starting at $21.
The home matches are poised to be thrilling experiences, especially with special events planned for community engagement and fan enjoyment.
As this weekend unfolds, San Diego truly proves to be America’s Finest City with its diverse array of events, inviting everyone to participate in the vibrant community activities, enjoy live entertainment, delight in culinary adventures, and engage with the arts.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s no shortage of excitement and joy to be found in San Diego.
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