San Diego’s contemporary art scene has a standout night on the calendar. The Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego (MCASD) is bringing back its Avant Garde Ball for a second edition, and if the sold-out inaugural event was any indication, this one is going to be memorable.

What Went Down Last Year – And What’s Coming This Time

The first Avant Garde Ball drew more than 400 creatives, innovators, and cultural leaders for a night blending art, music, and fashion. This year builds on that with new art activations, live performances, and immersive experiences across the museum’s galleries, which stay open all evening.

The theme, Larger Than Life, draws from Giants: Art from the Dean Collection of Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keys. The dress code leans into that energy – bold colors, unexpected proportions, and statement silhouettes welcome.

A Night With Deep San Diego Roots

Local photographers MJ Pimentel, Oscar Cruz, and Chata – featured in the companion exhibition The Dean Collection Presents: Hometown Heroes – will be on-site for a meet and greet in the galleries.

San Diego’s own The Rosin Box Project will bring the theme to life through an interactive dance performance woven throughout the event spaces.

The food comes straight from Barrio Logan, with signature bites from Alchemy Choose Thy Poison, Hayes Burger, Fish Guts, and more.

The Lineup Bringing the Energy

The night features live sets and DJ performances from five acts:

• Saint Misty – synth-pop blending ’70s/’80s inspiration with clever, fresh-feeling lyrics
• THE FAZES – queer, POC, female-fronted disco-punk with an ’80s and futuristic edge
• Goldie – vinyl-only DJ spinning rare funk, soul, disco, and house
• XOCHI – San Diego-Tijuana DJ blending dance music with vibrant LATAM rhythms
• lydon & faeth – San Diego electronic duo playing groovy live house and breakcore

Going VIP? Here’s What That Gets You

VIP holders get access to an exclusive lounge with a private performance by Carrington Kelso – a Black, queer storyteller delivering cinematic pop, R&B, and electronic music built for movement. Perks also include a dedicated bar, elevated bites, a limited-edition gift, and a curated swag bag.

Ticket Pricing to Know

Through April 24, general tickets run $135 for members and $150 for non-members, with VIP at $405 and $450, respectively. Starting April 25, last-chance pricing applies: $162/$180 general and $486/$540 VIP (member/non-member).

Upgrading to MCASD’s Avant Garde membership unlocks discounted tickets at just $75, available through May 2. One thing to keep in mind – this is a 21+ event.

See you there!

This is one of those San Diego nights that’s equal parts art, music, community, and a good time – all under one roof in La Jolla.

📆 Saturday, May 2, 2026 | 8 PM – 12 AM
📍 700 Prospect Street, La Jolla
🎟️ View ticket options here
ℹ️ Visit their website here for more details

See you there, San Diego!