Last week, in Travel Freak’s Wild Wednesday Column we visited Huntington Beach to discover the Top 10 Things to Do at Surf City USA. Now, we continue our coastal cruise in California, and head down to San Diego for a summer of festive events to enjoy.
San Diego has 70 miles of sparkling beaches, an endless list of summer events and some of the country’s best family attractions. Among these are the Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park, SeaWorld San Diego, and the LEGOLAND California Resort. Plus, you’ll find the recreation opportunities are endless; surf in the morning and tee off on a world-class golf course before lunch, then spend the rest of the day boating along the California coast. San Diego also has dazzling array of visual and performing arts, shopping destinations and tasty selections to sample at local restaurants. We’re exploring some of the upcoming must-see festivals, and with such much to see and do – San Diego is a must-see summer destination!
Heroes and Villains Unite At Comic-Con International
(photo credit Josh Schubert)
Slip on your cape, and gather your armor for the Comic-Con International later in July 24-27 at the San Diego Convention Center. Super heroes, villains, and an array of imaginative creatures will be in attendance for this signature summertime event. This is the largest comics and pop culture event in the United States, and brings together artists, celebrities, and fans for a weekend filled with events for every age.
Among the events for families at Comic-Con International is San Diego International Children’s Film Festival takes place on Sunday at Comic-Con International. This is a fun day-long program of entertaining short films from around the world for children of all ages. Films take place at various locations throughout the county so everyone can join in the fun. And, don’t forget to join the annual Masquerade that will feature all of your favorite characters from Comics and Sci-Fi adventures. From comics to artists, to movie memorabilia and all things related to pop culture, you’ll discover something amazing to experience with family and friends at Comic-Con International.
Summer Music Festivals In Balboa Park
Spreckels Organ Pavilion in Balboa Park presents two free concert series during the summer. During the Annual International Summer Organ Festival that runs through Mid August you can hear the majestic sound of one of the world’s largest outdoor pipe organ while enjoying music played by renowned concert organists at 7:30 p.m. on Monday evenings. The Twilight in the Park Summer Concerts feature a mix of musical performances, including military bands, Dixieland jazz, big band swing and Latin salsa. Concerts are held through Late August at 6:15 p.m. on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings.
U.S. Sand Sculpting Challenge and 3D Art Exposition
(photo via US Sand Sculpting Challenge Facebook)
When was the last time you built a sand castle? If it’s been awhile and you want to see how the pro’s take a pile of sand and transform it into stunning works of art, then head San Diego at the end of August through the first of September for the annual U.S. Sand Sculpting Challenge and 3D Art Exposition. Thousands will gather alongside San Diego Bay at the B Street Cruise Ship Terminal as artists carve and mold 300 tons of sand into beautiful sculptures. You’ve never seen an event as amazing as this – when artist’s slowly create stunning works from nothing but sand. The event also includes music, entertainment, tasty food, and unique rides for kids including a zipline that flies over the show.
San Diego LGBT Pride Parade and Festival
Share the spirit of unity at the Annual San Diego LGBT Pride Parade and Festival in Mid July. This is one of the most popular events of its kind in the country, and San Diego’s Pride Festival includes a mile-long parade through Hillcrest, in addition to a two-day festival in Balboa Park filled with activities for the whole family to enjoy. There will also be a number of cultural events to join like the Bare: A Pop Opera, which runs through early August at the Diversionary Theater at 4545 Park Blvd in San Diego. And, the First Annual San Diego Trans* Pride and March takes place at Balboa Park, located at 1549 El Prado. During the events you can view works by local artists, music, and games for everyone. Another popular event is the Post Pride Clean Up in which you can help clean up along parade route and side streets, and afterward’s everyone will meet for happy hour and appetizers at one of the local water holes.
Join San Diego’s Festive Summer Events
This is just the beginning of the festive summer events and festivals to enjoy in San Diego. To explore more area attractions, recreation, and the schedule of upcoming events, attractions, restaurants and more, visit the San Diego Tourism Authority’s website or call 619-236-1212.
(photo credit Joanne DiBona)
Wild Wednesday Facts:
Movie fans will find many film locations, and here several to visit while visiting San Diego:
The Kansas City Barbecue in downtown San Diego was the backdrop for several Top Gun bar scenes, which starred Tom Cruise.
The Hotel del Coronado was the backdrop for the 1959 comedy classic Some Like it Hot, featuring Marilyn Monroe, Tony Curtis and Jack Lemmon.
Fans of Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy, starring Will Ferrell, can join the “Panda Watch” at the San Diego Zoo.
Will you join San Diego’s Summer Festivities?