Things To Do In San Diego In September

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!

Watch A Movie With a Stunning View Around You

The late-summer and early-fall weather is the perfect time to snuggle up for a movie at Rooftop Cinema Club, given it’s incredible location atop the Manchester Grand Hyatt with never-ending views of the downtown skyline!

Mission Pacific Hotel & The Seabird Resort Make it a Summer to Remember in Oceanside

From celebratory gatherings to regular happy hours to holistic wellness offerings, Mission Pacific and The Seabird invite guests and locals alike to revel in the sunshine and enjoy all that Oceanside, including locally inspired events across dining, spa and wellness, and outdoor adventure.

Check Out WNDR Museum San Diego’s Interactive Exhibits

WNDR Museum, San Diego’s immersive art and technology experience, welcomes two brand-new exhibits to its gallery. Interoptics, a multi-sensory fiber-optic experience, and Waterfaux, inspired by the power of a waterfall and the impact it has on the senses.

Buy Your Organic, Farm Fresh Produce From San Diego Animal Sanctuary & Farm

Farm fresh produce is available for purchase seven days a week; no admission fee is necessary to buy produce. Funds earned from garden sales will go directly to the animals and sanctuary. Produce includes lettuce, carrots, radishes, kale, squash, zucchini, chard and more, harvested daily.

Buy The Vegetable Mole Verde Taco At Puesto To Help An Important Cause

Puesto worked with a Scripps dietitian to develop the Vegetable Mole Verde Taco, now available on menus at all San Diego locations. For the next year, a portion of the proceeds from this taco, and some other select menu items, will go directly to support Scripps cancer care.

Witness a theatrical world of fun, comedy, and spontaneity at Cirque du Soleil

September 6 to 10

This unique production, directed by Daniele Finzi Pasca, has amazed over 10 million spectators in 20 countries and on four continents.

The Roustabouts Theatre Co. proudly presents The Savoyard Murders

September 7 to 30

This uproarious murder mystery promises to keep audiences on the edge of their seats with its scandalous secrets, over-the-top theatrics, and unforgettable characters.

Join a dinner by Chefs Claudette Zepeda &Antonia Lofaso At Del Mar Wine & Food Festival

September 7

Perched atop a picturesque bluff in the charming seaside town of Encinitas, these two award-winning powerhouse chefs will collaborate on a special multi-course menu paired with Kosta Browne wines.

SD’s Favorite Boutique Art Gallery Celebrates 5 Years

September 9

The Stefanie Bales Fine Art Gallery, a Little Italy, San Diego staple, is celebrating 5 years in business with an inspired soiree. 

Fall Fest At Belmont Park Is Back

Starts September 9

Enjoy exciting activities for both kids and adults, including free trick-or-treating, festive fall entertainment, all things pumpkins, festive fall treats, seasonal workshops, a 5K in honor of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and more.

You’re Invited To ENF’s Annual “Harvest for Hope” Fundraiser

September 10

Indulge your taste buds at the Harvest for Hope foodie festival! Experience an array of delectable bites from 19 local businesses, perfectly complemented by a selection of spirits.

Moonshine Beach And 103.7 KSON Unite For Benefit Concert To Aid Lahaina Wildfire Victims

September 12

The concert is hosted by KSON’s own Kimo Jensen with performances by country stars, Brian Kelley (Florida Georgia Line), Chase Matthew, Runaway June and Tim Dugger.

Bring Your Appetite To The Heart of Pacific Beach Restaurant Walk

September 13

The Heart of Pacific Beach Restaurant Walk offers a self-guided food tour between Dawes and Lamont Streets. The event is vegetarian-friendly and aims to showcase Pacific Beach’s diverse cuisine.

Join Chocolate & Vino as it Returns for its 15th Year

September 14

Join us for an unforgettable evening of gourmet food tastings, beverage samplings, and mingling with San Diego’s young professionals as a meaningful way to engage with Big Brothers Big Sisters and your community.

The Best Professional Women’s Tennis Talent Compete For The 2023 Cymbiotika San Diego Open

September 14 to 16

The tournament consists of a 28-player singles main draw, a 16-team doubles main draw, and a 24-player singles qualifying draw. San Diego has a rich history of hosting major women’s tennis events, marking the return of the WTA to the city for the first time since 2015.

Annual Casino di Piazza Is Back for its 2nd Year

September 15

The evening will feature craft cocktails, light hors d’oeuvres, live music, Blackjack, Craps and Roulette under the stars. Dress to impress in your very best cocktail or black-tie attire as you enjoy every detail carefully curated to give guests the most authentic Italian garden casino experience.

Cosplay Contest, Japanese Pop-Culture & More Await At Otaku Smash Fest

September 16

This ticketed event invites guests to express themselves through the art of Japanese pop-culture! Activities include music, performances, a cosplay contest, food, Cars N Anime, nunchaku lessons and so much more!

Amps & Ales Returns With A Bigger Footprint For 2023

September 16

Chula Vista’s premier festival for music and craft beverages returns, featuring an abundant selection of breweries, distilleries, and wineries, along with live music in the city’s historic neighborhood.

OMBAC Classic Longboard Surfing Contest Back For Its 29th Year

September 16

OMBAC hosts annual longboard surfing contest in Pacific Beach, where contestants must use 1969 or older longboards that are 9′ or longer with no leash. The event features Open, Wahine, and Menehune (youth 16 and under) divisions and proceeds benefit the Drowning Prevention Foundation of San Diego.

Celebrate Mexican Independence Day in Old Town San Diego

September 16

Come celebrate Mexican Independence Day in Old Town San Diego with a variety of festivities, starting with the ringing of the bell at Casa de Estudillo and a colorful Fiestas Patrias parade featuring traditional women equestrians.

Come To Mission Beach For Belmont Park’s First Community 5K

September 17

Registered participants receive a free wristband for rides and attractions at Belmont Park, which will also host its annual Fall Festival. Proceeds from the event will support Team Parker For Life, a local charity focused on raising awareness for childhood cancer.

Wounded Warrior Homes Hosts Fairways 4 Veterans Golf Tournament

September 18

Proceeds will provide transitional housing and services for single post-9/11 veterans with Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) military-related injuries and severe financial hardship through the Wounded Warrior Homes program.

Treat Your Taste Buds At The Taste Of Encinitas 2023

September 19

Indulge in culinary delights with food and drink samples from over 15 restaurants, complemented by local wine and craft beer available at 20 Sip Stops hosted by shops and salons.

An Evening With Michael Gardiner Exploring Cali Baja Cuisine

September 21

The event will be held at DIESEL, A Bookstore in Del Mar, and Michael Gardiner will be there to discuss and sign copies of his book. Come to explore the delicious and diverse world of Cali Baja cuisine!

Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa’s Annual Whiskey & Wine Bash Is Back!

September 22

The flavors of the deep South and Northern California converge at this West coast BBQ bash at Estancia La Jolla. A nod to the property’s horse ranch heritage, this southern-style feast under the stars features a menu of comfort food favorites washed down with whiskey, bourbon and wine tastings.

Get Your Tickets Now for the Miramar Air Show 2023!

September 22 to 24

Join us for the largest military air show, featuring immersive experiences, stunning aerial displays, and flight simulators. Create unforgettable memories with family and friends at the Miramar Air Show, open to the public.

Get Ready For Some Action at Poway Rodeo

September 22 to 23

The annual Poway Rodeo features professional rodeo cowboys competing to hold on for 8 seconds, along with free Rodeo Dances. Admission is free for children 5 and under in general seating, and 3 and under for preferred seating when on an adult’s lap; discounted family and kids’ VIP tickets are also available for Saturday’s performance.

Nissan Super Girl Surf Pro To Return To Oceanside Pier

September 22 to 24

The most talented US female surfers will come together to Oceanside for three days of thrilling surf and a spectator-friendly surf village focused on female empowerment. the most talented US female surfers to Oceanside for three days of thrilling surf and a spectator friendly surf village focused on female empowerment.

San Diego Zoo Celebrates Food, Wine, & Brew

September 23

Your good time does good for the planet, too, when you come out to support and save wildlife. With food, drink, and fun included, this all-inclusive night is not-to-be-missed. It’s the tastiest event to help wildlife: Join us in celebrating our passion for nature and creating a world where all life thrives!

PIFA: A Celebration of Pacific Islander Culture and Heritage

September 23 to 24

As the largest and longest-running event of its kind, PIFA attracts a diverse audience, including attendees from outside San Diego, contributing to the city’s tourism. The festival’s impact is amplified through extensive social media sharing, preserving and promoting the rich traditions and culture it represents.

Adams Avenue Street Fair Is Back With 75 Musical Acts On 7 Stages

September 23 to 24

The event, held in San Diego’s Normal Heights neighborhood, is Southern California’s largest free two-day festival. Adams Avenue businesses are proud sponsors of the event that brings the community together each year.

San Diego Distillers Guild Fest Returns For Its 5th Year

September 23

This large community event, launched in 2019 and now drawing hundreds of attendees each year, pays homage to the region’s growing craft distilling scene and is presented by the San Diego Distillers Guild.

Bring your pups At The Bow Wow Brunch Cruise

September 23

The 12th Annual Bow Wow Brunch Cruise supports orphaned pets at the Helen Woodward Animal Center. This special event offers the same delightful Champagne Brunch Cruise experience for you, your family, and your pooch.

CRSSD Festival: San Diego’s Premier Music and Arts Event Is Back At Waterfront Park

September 23 to 24

Experience the ultimate music and arts festival at CRSSD Fest. Join us for two days of electrifying performances, stunning visuals, and unforgettable moments.

Encinitas Oktoberfest & Artisan Faire Celebrates 27th Year

September 24

This free community event celebrates German heritage with live entertainment, an authentic beer garden, international food, and artisan exhibits, drawing attendees from across San Diego County.

Annual San Diego Restaurant Week Returns for its 21st Year

Starts September 24

The event features over 100 restaurants across the county offering prix-fixe menus starting at $20. No tickets are required, but reservations are recommended, and many venues offer expanded outdoor dining options.

Chef Brad Wise Is Featured Chef At A Fundraiser For Feeding San Diego

September 28

Feeding San Diego announced that its next Pairings with a Purpose Dinner Party fundraiser will be held this fall and will be helmed by acclaimed Chef Brad Wise, chef and owner of TRUST Restaurant Group.

Howl-O-Scream Brings Immersive Terror and Screams to SeaWorld San Diego

Starts September 29

Nominated as USA Today 10Best best Halloween event, guests can enter if they dare and escape through an all-new heart-stopping haunted house with 3D effects & three completely reimagined horrifying haunted houses plaguing this year’s event. 

La Mesa Oktoberfest Is Back And Celebrates 50th Year

Starts September 29

As it marks its 50th year, La Mesa Oktoberfest remains committed to upholding its cherished traditions and offering Bavarian festivities that appeal to San Diegans of all generations! La Mesa Oktoberfest provides an ideal occasion to forge lasting memories, relish the companionship of loved ones, and unite for an unforgettable weekend in a German-inspired haven right in the heart of La Mesa.

Quartyard & East Village To Host Largest East Village Oktoberfest

September 30

Quartyard has partnered with the East Village Association to host the largest celebration to date, transforming East Village into a modern faced Oktoberfest activation with one-of-a-kind Latin flair for the evolving East Village community.

It’s A Thrilling Oceanside Challenge With Marine Corps Mud Run. Ooh-rah!

September 30

With 10K and 5K courses that include rolling hills, river crossings, tall walls, muddy pits, tunnels, slippery slopes, cargo climbs, and more, this iconic event offers a taste of Marine Corps life. Enjoy the Filthy Fun Fest afterward, featuring food, music, muddy vendors, family-friendly activities, beer, Marine Corps exhibits, and the Mud Run Store.