Things to Do in San Diego in November

Top Concerts in San Diego

Want to know where to find amazing artists in concert every week in San Diego? This is your go-to list!

The Best Places to Enjoy a Thanksgiving Feast in San Diego

Whether you’re craving a traditional turkey dinner with all the trimmings, exploring innovative takes on classic dishes at some of San Diego’s finest restaurants, or opting for a delicious meal to-go, these venues have something for everyone this Thanksgiving.

The Craving

The Craving is your source for the latest menu updates, new cocktail programs, happy hours, and special offers from San Diego’s best restaurants and bars!

Where to Get Your Thanksgiving Pies in San Diego!

Wondering where to get Thanksgiving pies in San Diego? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! We take our Thanksgiving pie verrrrrrry seriously around the halls of ThereSanDiego, and we’ve taste-tested nearly every single pie in town! You can’t go wrong with any of these…but you can miss out if you wait too long. Get those orders in today!

9 Ways to Celebrate Fall in San Diego

We’re head over heels for fall in San Diego! The tourists have retreated, the weather’s perfect, and the city’s buzzing with activities. From scenic hikes and pumpkin picking to beach days without the crowds, there’s no shortage of ways to embrace the season. It’s our little slice of autumn paradise!

Your November Arts Adventure Awaits at Liberty Station

San Diego‘s creative hub is lighting up this November with a lineup that’ll make art lovers, craft enthusiasts, and culture seekers feel like kids in a candy store. ARTS DISTRICT Liberty Station is rolling out everything from hands-on workshops to mesmerizing dance performances, and yes, even some holiday magic on ice.

Pacific Dreams Merge Art and Science

Oceanside Museum of Art and Birch Aquarium unite for an oceanic culture splash. OMA’s “Transformative Currents” features 21 international artists exploring Pacific heritage, while Birch’s “Embodied Pacific” reveals underwater mysteries through artistic collaboration with Scripps scientists.

Six Great Destinations for a Fall Road Trip From San Diego

The start of fall means it’s time for a road trip from San Diego to one of our amazing regional destinations where you can get some of those fall feels! Here are six day-trip destinations—when you’re feeling like a road trip from San Diego—where you can get your autumn fix before returning to the land of eternal summer.

New Fall Experiences at Birch Aquarium

While we’re all eagerly awaiting the grand debut of Living Seas next summer, the aquarium is treating us to a tidal wave of new experiences: Riveropolis, a hands-on water play adventure; the Coral Classroom, offering a behind-the-scenes look at coral conservation; and an expanded Animal Ambassador Program featuring a new Laughing Kookaburra.

Black Americana Makes Magic at Oceanside Museum

Former Disney animator Marshall Toomey brings his storytelling prowess to Oceanside Museum of Art. His vibrant collection captures everyday Black American life with the same enchanting energy that brought Aladdin and The Lion King to life, turning ordinary moments into extraordinary memories.

Come Dance After Dark in PB

Union Kitchen & Tap evolves into Union After Dark with themed Saturday parties from throwback hip-hop to vinyl nights. Between emo singalongs and pop celebrations, innovative cocktails like guava-lavender California Soul and spicy Mr. Roboto fuel the dance floor.

Hop to It, San Diego! Beer Week is Back and Better Than Ever

November 1 to 10

A 10-day celebration spotlighting 30+ local breweries, San Diego Beer Week (Nov 1-10) culminates in the Capital of Craft Beerfest at Kilowatt Brewing. Early bird tickets include unlimited tastings, food trucks, and live music from Los Tortugas. First 100 tickets score a Brewers Guild floppy hat.

The Barn Redefined’s Christmas Wonderland is Back

November 1 to 17

Poway’s beloved holiday haven sparkles with 26 themed Christmas trees, from woodsy “Under the Stars” to multicultural “Chrismukkah.” Inside the life-sized gingerbread barn, visitors discover a vintage candy shop trailer while spreading cheer through Anvil of Hope’s toy drive.

Get Wild With Nature This November

November 2 to 16

Nature Collective opens San Elijo Lagoon’s wonders with four free adventures. From family shell hunting with rangers to winter wildlife watching tours, visitors can explore where fresh meets salt water. Green thumbs can join restoration efforts while photographers capture migrating birds.

La Jolla’s Musical November Soars

November 2 onward

La Jolla Music Society unleashes a genre-spanning feast: Sammy Miller’s joyful jazz, Hélène Grimaud’s piano mastery, and Encanto’s live singalong at the Balboa. Plus, catch rising stars Trio Bohémo and free outdoor concerts featuring mariachi and American classics.

Lights Camera Action at the 2024 Coronado Island Film Festival

November 6 to 10

The Coronado Island Film Festival transforms the island into a cinematic paradise with Amazon’s “Unstoppable” starring Jennifer Lopez and Sundance favorite “A Real Pain” with Kieran Culkin.

Santa’s Got Some Serious Competition in Carlsbad

November 7

An anonymous donor’s dazzling $100,000 toy spree at Geppetto’s Forum Carlsbad spreads holiday magic through Toys for Tots. With Marines leading the collection and Geppetto’s matching donations, locals can join this heartwarming tradition by bringing a toy for a chance at a gift card.

Sails & Ales Returns With Marina-Front Beer Bash

November 8

Kona Kai Resort’s waterfront party unites San Diego’s best breweries like Ballast Point, Stone, and Coronado with Mediterranean cuisine under the stars. Sails & Ales pairs pomegranate-braised short ribs and baklava with bay views, supporting Surfrider Foundation’s local ocean conservation efforts.

Art, Culture, and Magic Collide in the Gaslamp

November 8

EC Gallery’s three-day celebration showcases the nation’s most inspiring Native American artists, including Cara Romero’s striking photography and Jeremy Salazar’s vibrant portraits. Mix with creators while exploring contemporary artwork and designer accessories and enjoying wine, craft beer, and live music.

Frontwave Arena to Host San Diego Clippers’ Epic Home Opener

November 8

Frontwave Arena debuts with the San Diego Clippers’ electric home opener, celebrating local hero Bill Walton. Electric Wasteband brings Grateful Dead vibes to Fan Fest while lucky fans score tie-dye shirts and pre-game court time before the Clippers battle Rip City Remix.

Join The Ultimate Holiday Baby Gear Drive

November 8 onward

We’re rallying the San Diego community for DBC’s second annual holiday drive that’s spreading double the joy. Our donations of gently used baby items and new essentials will support both Ronald McDonald House Charities and Birthline of San Diego County, making a real difference for local families in need.

Get Groovy at San Diego Made’s Disco-fied Holiday Market

November 9

San Diego Made transforms NTC Park into a groovy shopping paradise with 130+ local artisans selling everything from handcrafted jewelry to unique home decor. Between the live bands, food trucks, and creative kids’ zones, this retro-themed market brings holiday shopping to life.

Liberty Station’s Living History Shines Brighter this Veterans Day

November 11

San Diego’s former Naval Training Center now pulses with arts and culture while honoring its military roots. Explore 48 acres where naval recruits once trained, now home to waterfront adventures, bustling markets, and fascinating exhibits like the landlocked USS Recruit.

SeaWorld’s Holiday Magic Makes a Splash This Winter

Starts November 15

San Diego’s ultimate winter wonderland transforms SeaWorld with Winston the Walrus’ new holiday show, real reindeer visits, and nightly snowfall under the 320-foot SkyTower Christmas tree. Between dazzling light tunnels and festive treats, even Rudolph’s made this bayside celebration home.

Garden Glows With Global Light Show

November 15 onward

San Diego Botanic Garden’s Lightscape transforms 37 acres into an illuminated wonderland, featuring new artistic installations alongside fan favorites. International artists create glowing California poppies and light tunnels along a mile-long trail, while seasonal treats sweeten the magical stroll.

Pine Valley’s Holiday Haven

November 15 onward

Camp Christmas transforms Pine Valley into a twinkling alpine spectacle with hundreds of thousands of synchronized lights, hourly water shows, and endless family fun. From winter hayrides and laser tag to BBQ feasts and s’mores under starlit pines, this mountaintop wonderland brings North Pole magic to San Diego.

Coastal Christmas Lights Up Belmont

November 15

Winter Wonder returns to Mission Beach with a million twinkling lights transforming Belmont Park into a festive boardwalk paradise. Between Peppermint Putt Putt, holiday-themed escapes, and Miracle at Draft’s charitable cocktails, beach vibes meet winter cheer.

Wags and Miles Unite at San Diego’s Most Heartwarming 5K

November 16

Shelter to Soldier’s debut race at NTC Park combines morning fitness with furry fun, transforming rescue dogs into service animals for post-9/11 veterans. Beyond the run, unleash joy at the Gratitude Festival featuring adoptable pups, live music, and a beer garden.

Border Art Comes Alive in This Exclusive Tijuana Tour

November 16

Step into Colonia Esperanza, where artist James Hubbell’s imagination transforms everyday spaces into magical masterpieces. Tour the mosaic-adorned playground at Jardin de Ninos, watch local students dance, and discover Pacific Rim Park’s breathtaking Entre Corazón y Mar views.

Melodies and Merlot Unite

November 16 onward

Mainly Mozart’s new Sommelier Series pairs world-class concertmasters with expert wine curators at Fairbanks Ranch. Starting with Philadelphia Orchestra’s David Kim, each intimate evening blends wine tastings and appetizers with masterful chamber performances between sips.

A World of Flavors Unfolds at the World Naan Festival

November 16

San Diego’s first World Naan Festival transforms Encore Event Center into a flatbread paradise, featuring creative spins on the beloved bread. Watch chef battles and baking demos, then dive into endless varieties while enjoying cultural performances and henna artistry.

Punk Rock Paradise Hits San Diego

November 16

The Offspring and Pennywise lead an explosive lineup at Punk In The Park, joined by Streetlight Manifesto and hometown heroes Buck-O-Nine. Between the legendary headbangers and three hours of craft beer sampling, this all-ages rock paradise serves up both moshing and microbrews.

AAPI Pastry Stars Take Over East Village

November 17

Six stellar AAPI pastry chefs unite at Cowboy Star for San Diego’s sweetest collab. This Friendly Feast features treasure boxes packed with ube doughnuts, Valrhona cannelés, and signature Flandan tarts, supporting future culinary stars through scholarship funds.

Ukraine’s Premier Ballet Brings Double Magic

November 19

Grand Kyiv Ballet dazzles San Diego with back-to-back classics: “Snow Queen” sets Mozart and Vivaldi to dance at the Civic Theater, while sugar plum dreams come alive in “The Nutcracker” at California Center for the Arts in Escondido.

Otay Becomes A Winter Wonderland

November 19

A dazzling 50-foot Christmas tree with 17,000 lights anchors Otay Ranch’s holiday celebration, complete with face painting, carolers, and Santa’s snowy spectacular. Between the local performances and farmers market finds, free family festivities fill Main Street.

There’s a New Sensory Cocktail Experience Coming to San Diego

November 21

Encore Event Center’s Sensory Cocktail Experience takes mixology into new dimensions with three themed rooms serving mind-bending drinks. Each custom cocktail engages multiple senses in this 90-minute journey, with non-alcoholic options ensuring everyone can join the sensory adventure.

Get Ready for San Diego’s Ultimate Noodle Night

November 21

The Handlery Hotel transforms into a ramen wonderland as San Diego’s favorite noodle festival returns. Beyond steaming bowls of authentic comfort food, visitors groove to live entertainment and explore local art while premium sake flows in the beer garden.

Liberty Station is About to Turn Up the Holiday Magic

November 21 onward

Liberty Station transforms into a winter wonderland featuring San Diego’s tallest holiday tree lighting ceremony, magical Santa meet-and-greets, and festive outdoor movie screenings. Guests can glide across Rady Children’s Ice Rink while supporting the Thriving After Cancer program. This enchanting celebration brings holiday spirit to San Diego.

Join The Bay’s Biggest Yoga Class

November 23

Fit Athletic Club brings free waterfront wellness to the Rady Shell, with instructor Viktoria Talbot leading an hour-long public yoga session. The stunning bayside venue transforms into San Diego’s most scenic yoga studio for this first-come, first-served morning flow.

See Art Through Ocean Eyes

November 23 to 24

Oceanside Museum’s PST ART weekend offers two unique ways to explore Pacific waters: meditate and mold clay oceanic forms with Marcos Lutyens, then join Ana Andrade to map microscopic environmental treasures. These free workshops bring marine art to life.

Holidays Go Grand at Del Mar

November 28 onward

Fairmont Grand Del Mar transforms into a winter wonderland with six weeks of festivities. From eco-friendly ice skating and Santa visits to the Nutcracker Tea and wreath-making workshops, the resort offers countless ways to celebrate. Seasonal dining includes holiday brunches, festive teas, and spectacular Christmas feasts.