Every fall, La Jolla Village transforms into one of the most walkable art experiences in Southern California – and this October, it’s back for its 18th year.

The La Jolla Art & Wine Festival takes over Girard Avenue from Prospect Street to Torrey Pines Road for a free, two-day open-air celebration of fine art, local libations, live music, and community.

Over 170 Artists, All in One Place

The heart of the festival is its juried art show, featuring more than 170 artists from across the U.S. and Mexico.

Whether you’re a serious collector or just someone who appreciates a well-crafted piece, there’s a lot to take in – painting, sculpture, ceramics, jewelry, photography, glasswork, and more spread across one of La Jolla’s most iconic stretches.

With new artists joining the lineup this year, the range of work on view is broader than ever, so even if you’ve come before, there’s fresh ground to cover.

Heat, Metallic Powders, and a Connection to the Ocean

Douglas Merskin is one name to slow down for. The Florida-based mixed media artist works in mineral pigments, metallic powders, and acrylic paints, then takes heat to the substrate and bends it into shape.

The pieces come out three-dimensional, with a flow that moves like water. He came to art sideways, after years in construction and design-build, and that instinct still shows.

His work sits in private collections around the country, and he is a featured artist at The Perry Gallery right here in La Jolla. Find him on Girard Avenue and stand in front of one.

Wine, Beer, and a New VIP Experience

For those 21 and up, the Wine & Beer Garden brings together premier wineries, local craft breweries, and select spirits for a curated tasting experience.

New this year, a VIP upgrade option offers an elevated version of the garden experience for anyone looking to take things up a notch.

More to Explore

Beyond the art and the drinks, the weekend packs in live entertainment, a two-day silent auction, interactive experiences, and a pet adoption station. Families can head to the Geppetto’s Toys Family Art Center, where hands-on activities keep the creative energy going for kids of all ages.

A Festival With Purpose

Since its founding, the La Jolla Art & Wine Festival Foundation has raised more than $1.7 million to support arts, music, science, and technology programs at five La Jolla public schools – Bird Rock, La Jolla, and Torrey Pines Elementary, Muirlands Middle School, and La Jolla High School – reaching more than 4,000 students each year.

Attending is free, and the Wine & Beer Garden tickets are on sale now.

See you there!

Girard Avenue comes alive this fall with art, wine, and good company. The La Jolla Art & Wine Festival is the kind of weekend that reminds you why we love living here.

📆 October 10 – 11, 2026 | 10 AM – 6 PM
📍 Girard Avenue, La Jolla
🎟️ Festival admission is free
ℹ️ Find more details here

See you there, San Diego!