The La Jolla Art & Wine Festival returns for its 17th year with exciting new additions that reflect the event’s commitment to evolving with the community.

This year’s free two-day festival introduces a Local Spotlight Artist program, expands the family area to include STEAM activities, and offers VIP tickets for the Wine & Beer Garden alongside the renowned juried art show featuring over 170 artists.

Spotlight on Local Talent

The inaugural Local Spotlight Artist program honors Taylor Dunfee, a La Jolla-based photographer and tattoo artist whose personal story of recovery following a near-fatal motorcycle accident has led to a powerful new body of illustrative work.

This program reflects the festival’s recognition that La Jolla has incredible artistic talent that deserves special recognition within the broader art community.

Dunfee’s work will be exhibited alongside artists from the U.S. and Mexico showcasing mediums including painting, sculpture, ceramics, photography, and glasswork. The Local Spotlight Artist concept creates a way to celebrate the creative community that calls La Jolla home while supporting emerging and established local artists.

Expanded STEAM Programming

The newly rebranded Geppetto’s Family Art & Science Center represents a significant expansion from its previous arts and crafts focus.

Now offering engaging, hands-on STEAM experiences for children of all ages, the center includes participation from La Jolla Youth Robotics, Living Coast Discovery Center, and other organizations.

This expansion aligns with the festival’s mission to support both art and science programs in local public schools, recognizing that creativity and scientific thinking often work together. For families, it means kids can experience art-making alongside robotics and discovery activities that spark different types of curiosity and learning.

VIP Wine & Beer Garden Experience

While the festival remains free and open to the public, the Wine & Beer Garden continues as a popular ticketed experience for guests 21 and older. The new VIP tickets include 12 tastings, a dedicated VIP entrance, and an exclusive limited-edition festival tote, providing a premium experience within the already popular garden.

The Wine & Beer Garden features over 35 wineries, breweries, distilleries, and local restaurants set against live music and entertainment. The VIP tier acknowledges that some of us want a more elevated experience while keeping the general admission option accessible.

Supporting Local Education

Executive Director Brenda Chand emphasized that these additions make the festival “more immersive and inclusive than ever before.” All proceeds from the La Jolla Art & Wine Festival Foundation support underfunded art, music, science, physical education, and technology programs in San Diego Unified public schools.

The expanded STEAM programming and continued support for arts education create a direct connection between the weekend’s celebration and ongoing support for creative and scientific learning throughout the school year.

Planning Your Visit

Wine & Beer Garden tickets are priced on a sliding scale from $50–$65 for General Admission and $70–$85 for VIP, depending on when you purchase. Early bird pricing through July offers the best value, with prices increasing each month leading up to the event.

See you there!

Ready to experience the 17th year of this beloved festival with exciting new additions? La Jolla’s art scene is about to showcase everything that makes this community special.

📆 Saturday & Sunday, October 11–12, 2025
📍 Girard Ave, San Diego
🎟️ Free festival | Wine & Beer Garden tickets can be purchased here
ℹ️ More info here

See you there, San Diego!