Things to Do in San Diego in April

April in San Diego is bursting with creativity, culture, and classic charm.

Don’t miss Art Alive at The San Diego Museum of Art, where floral masterpieces take center stage; the 19th Annual La Jolla Concours d’Elegance, showcasing stunning vintage automobiles by the sea; and Adams Avenue Unplugged, a free music festival featuring local artists performing intimate acoustic sets across Normal Heights and Kensington.

Keep checking back…we’ll update it as we hear about more (there’s always more!).


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!


newest culinary destination in Carlsbad Village

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.


The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch is Back

Spring’s most colorful spectacle is here! The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch are now officially open for the 2025 season, transforming Carlsbad into a world of color and wonder as Giant Tecolote Ranunculus flowers blanket the hillside in a rainbow of blooms.


Nat at Night at San Diego Natural History Museum

Kick Off Your Weekends With Nat at Night

Explore all four floors of the Museum and test your trivia knowledge at trivia in the Atrium. And, of course, hit the rooftop for a San Diego sunset and TGIF cocktail and enjoy delicious bites from The Craft Taco. It’s the perfect way to ease into the weekend.


Have Fun at the Best Karaoke Bars in San Diego

Here are the best karaoke bars to sing to your heart’s content—or at least go throw a few back while you listen to others living vicariously through their rockstar alter egos.


most-popular outdoor cinema

Rooftop Cinema Club Releases April Lineup

April is bringing big-screen magic to Rooftop Cinema Club, San Diego’s most popular outdoor cinema, with a month full of iconic films, themed events, and fan-favorite experiences under the stars! From Titanic and Scarface to Gilmore Girls and Parks & Rec mini-marathons, plus a Silent Disco and the last chance to enjoy Fireside Films, this is a movie lover’s dream lineup.


Check Out These Locally Owned Shops Serving Up the Best Ice Cream in San Diego

From ice cream flights to warm waffle cone sandwiches, we’ve rounded up the best ice cream in San Diego— all locally owned shops. So next time you get your cream and sugar kick, stop by one of these places for a scoop, or two (or three) of the best ice cream in San Diego!


James Hubbell

Ilan-Lael Spring Tours Return With New Saturday Socials

The Ilan-Lael Spring Tours are back, offering an immersive experience into James Hubbell’s artistic world. You can explore the renowned artist’s one-of-a-kind home and studio, set against the breathtaking Santa Ysabel landscape.


big list of things to do in san diego this weekend

Matt Devine Brings an Immersive Sculpture Exhibition to OMA

Known for his ability to transform industrial materials into serene, organic forms, renowned sculptor Matt Devine invites you to experience the calming rhythms of nature through steel and aluminum sculptures, suspended works, and intricate wall installations.


special Mutt Menu at Madison

Wednesday Nights Just Got More Paw-some at Madison on Park

No more guilty goodbyes—Dinner with Dogs at Madison on Park is the perfect way to spend Wednesday nights with your four-legged bestie! Treat yourself to a delicious meal while your pup enjoys their own feast from the special Mutt Menu, crafted just for them.


La Valencia's Spring Tea

La Valencia Hotel’s Award-Winning Spring Tea Returns

The arrival of spring means the return of La Valencia’s Spring Tea, an elegant seasonal tradition set against the stunning Pacific Ocean views of the Mediterranean Room. This award-winning afternoon tea experience is the perfect way to welcome the season with fine teas, handcrafted pastries, and timeless charm.


Light Made Visible exhibition

Light, Shadow, and the Art of Perception: “Light Made Visible” Opens at The 3rd Space

April 4

Light Made Visible, the latest 3rd Space Gallery exhibition, brings together two of San Diego’s most compelling multidisciplinary artists for a poetic exploration of light, memory, and form.


Union Hall Gallery’s Fine Art and Craft Sale

April 4–13

Discover unique, handcrafted pieces at Union Hall Gallery’s Fine Art & Craft Sale in the Gaslamp. Meet local artists and explore ceramics, paintings, textiles, and more—all in one creative, community-driven weekend. Perfect for thoughtful gifts or personal treasures.


big list of things to do in san diego this weekend

The Spring Art & Wine Walk Returns to The Forum Carlsbad

April 5

Celebrate spring in style with an afternoon of local art, fine wine, live music, and community vibes at The Forum Carlsbad! Stroll the center and explore vibrant artwork from local creatives while sipping curated wine selections at the Wine Garden near YETI, hosted by Jimbo’s with a charcuterie spread from Mirabelle Charcuterie and sweet treats from McConnell’s Ice Cream and Jimbo’s cupcake bar.


Quartyard Anniversary

Celebrate 10 Years of Quartyard With Adrian Younge & More

April 5

Get ready to raise a glass to 10 years of music, art, and community at Quartyard! The East Village hangout is throwing a big anniversary bash, and it’s going to be one for the books. Headlining the night is none other than Adrian Younge, performing with his full 10-piece orchestra as part of his Something About April Tour.


Fit Athletic Yoga at The Rady Shell

April 5

Come enjoy a FREE yoga class from Fit Athletic! This “Bootcamp Yoga” session will be led by Viktoria Talbot at The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park, so be ready to WORK! Allow your body and mind to joyfully connect for a full hour in one of the most beautiful settings in all of San Diego!


North Park Festival of Beers Celebrates 15 Years of Craft and Community

April 5

The 15th annual North Park Festival of Beers features over 80 craft beers from 40+ local breweries, live music, food vendors, and a vibrant street atmosphere, bringing together beer lovers and the community for a lively celebration.


Oceanside Strawberry Festival at Mellano Farm Stand

April 5

The Oceanside Strawberry Festival at Mellano Farm Stand features ripe strawberry picking, live music, food trucks, local vendors, wine and beer, bounce houses, gem sluicing, and tractor rides on weekends, promising lots of fun for all ages.


Nature Collective April events

Celebrate Earth Month With Nature Collective’s Free Events

April 5 – 19

Explore the accessible trails of San Elijo Lagoon on a guided Discovery Tour that blends environmental education with awe-inspiring scenery. Get to know native plants and migratory birds as you move through this dynamic coastal ecosystem.


San Marcos Spring Fling Returns With Food, Fun, and Local Flair

April 6

The San Marcos Spring Fling Festival offers live music, interactive kids’ activities, over 250 vendors, delicious food, and a craft beer and wine garden. Held in North City, this lively event brings the community together for shopping, entertainment, and family fun.


Library Giving Day

April is a Big Month for San Diego Public Libraries—Here’s How to Support Them

April 6 – 28

Libraries aren’t just about books—they’re essential spaces for learning, connection, and creativity. This April, show your support for San Diego Public Libraries by donating, advocating, and joining in on the celebration.


things to do in san diego in april

The Nat Hosts Prehistoric Prom for Adults

April 11

The Secret Society of Adultologists presents a 21+ after-hours event at The Nat featuring music, mingling, behind-the-scenes access, rooftop views, and Mesozoic-themed fun.


Uncorked Wine Fest Celebrates 10 Years in San Diego

April 12

Uncorked returns to the Embarcadero with 150+ wines, zero-proof options, food trucks, lawn games, live DJs, and tastings benefiting Urban Surf 4 Kids.


Fangaea Brings Ultimate Fandom Fun to San Diego

April 12

Fangaea 2025 unites fans of sci-fi, comics, cosplay, gaming, and more for a family-friendly weekend filled with panels, tournaments, VR, music, and vendors—where all fandoms collide in one epic celebration of pop culture.


Taste of Hillcrest

Taste of Hillcrest Serves Up a Flavorful Adventure

April 12

Sample signature bites and brews from 25+ Hillcrest restaurants during San Diego’s top self-guided culinary walking tour, featuring diverse cuisines, vibrant vibes, and an unforgettable neighborhood tasting experience.


Vino & Vinyasa at Lakehouse Resort

Wellness at The Lake is Back at Lakehouse Resort

Starts April 12

The third annual Wellness at The Lake series returns to Lakehouse Resort with monthly fitness classes led by YogaSix and ClubPilates. Enjoy yoga, strength training, event-day perks, and dining at Brickmans.


Coronado Flower Show Returns for 103rd Year

April 12–13

The 103rd annual Coronado Flower Show, the largest tented flower show in the U.S., features floral displays, competitions, live entertainment, and community events. Hosted by the Coronado Floral Association, this spring tradition includes pre-show activities like homefront judging and a family movie night.


Fern Street Circus 2025

Fern Street Circus Kicks Off Its 2025 Neighborhood Tour

April 12 – 27

Fern Street Circus, San Diego’s original social circus, returns this April with its 2025 Neighborhood Tour—bringing free, family-friendly performances to local parks across the city. The tour kicks off at Park de la Cruz with a celebration of Heartman, Fern Street’s beloved 10-foot mascot, who’s turning 10 this year.


Escondido’s Arts, Culture & Creativity Month

Escondido’s Arts, Culture & Creativity Month Brings a Full Month of Free Events

April 12–28

April is officially Escondido’s Arts Culture & Creativity Month, and the city is celebrating with a packed lineup of free events, exhibits, performances, and hands-on experiences showcasing the best of local arts and culture.


Fallbrook Avocado Festival

Fallbrook Avocado Festival Celebrates All Things Avo

April 13

The beloved Fallbrook Avocado Festival returns with avocado-themed foods, artisan vendors, live music, family fun, and a showcase of the region’s agricultural heritage in the heart of downtown Fallbrook.


San Diego EarthFest Honors Earth Day in Balboa Park

April 19

San Diego EarthFest is a free, zero-waste celebration featuring 100+ eco-friendly vendors, live music, wellness activities, kids’ zones, and more in a family- and dog-friendly festival at Balboa Park.


WOW Festival San Diego

WOW Festival Returns to UC San Diego

April 24

Whether it’s an intimate theatrical moment in an unexpected setting or a large-scale outdoor production, WOW invites audiences of all ages to engage with art beyond traditional theatre walls.


things to do in san diego this weekend

Art Alive Returns to SDMA for a Stunning Floral Celebration

April 2427

Art Alive is back, transforming The San Diego Museum of Art into a breathtaking floral wonderland! This year’s theme celebrates the groundbreaking designs of Lord Norman Foster, with floral designers interpreting not only paintings and sculptures but also architecture in a stunning new way.


Bloom Bash

Don’t Miss Bloom Bash!

April 25

Bloom Bash returns for its 10th anniversary with late-night revelry, gourmet bites, craft cocktails, art installations, live music, and early access to the Art Alive floral exhibition at The San Diego Museum of Art.


La traviata – A Timeless Finale

April 25 – 27

San Diego Opera caps its 60th anniversary season with Verdi’s La traviata, a powerful story of love and sacrifice. Directed by Kyle Lang and featuring the San Diego Symphony, this beloved masterpiece promises an unforgettable operatic experience.


The 19th Annual Concours d’Elegance Rolls Into La Jolla

April 25 – 27

Renowned as one of America’s premier automotive showcases, this three-day celebration blends luxury, nostalgia, and automotive artistry for car enthusiasts and newcomers alike.


Tequila & Taco Music Festival Spices Up San Diego

April 26

The Tequila & Taco Music Festival serves up top-shelf tequila tastings, gourmet tacos, and live music by the beach in a two-day celebration of flavor, rhythm, and fun.


things to do in san diego this april

Adams Avenue Unplugged Brings Live Music to the Streets

April 26

Adams Avenue Unplugged is a free music festival featuring dozens of local artists performing acoustic sets across bars, restaurants, and coffee shops along a two-mile stretch in Normal Heights and Kensington.


Lakehouse Resort Hosts 2025 Food & Wine Festival

April 26

The Lakehouse Resort’s Food & Wine Festival offers a lakeside tasting experience featuring top-tier wineries, gourmet bites from local chefs, live music, and scenic views in a relaxed, resort-style setting.


Mission Fed Artwalk

Mission Fed ArtWalk Returns to Little Italy

April 26 – 27

The 41st annual Mission Fed ArtWalk fills San Diego’s Little Italy with over 250 artists, live music, interactive exhibits, and family-friendly activities in SoCal’s largest fine art festival.


Get out there and enjoy our amazing city!

See you there, San Diego!

Share This Post
The Latest
big list of things to do in san diego this weekend
Check out this week’s Big List of Things to Do in San Diego this weekend and make your plans! Art Alive is turning the San...
Arts District Liberty Station Open-Air Gallery
There’s a new reason to stroll through Arts District Liberty Station this spring—the launch of their Open-Air Gallery, a fresh and interactive way to experience...
Pool House Sundays
San Diego’s rooftop scene heats up this spring with the return of Pool House Sundays at The Pool House, Pendry San Diego’s third-floor day club...
Spring Nama Sake Festival
Spring is here—and so is nama season. If you’ve never tried raw, unpasteurized sake, the 2025 Spring Sake Festival is the perfect place to start....
Ilan-Lael Spring Workshops
Looking to spark your creativity this season? The Ilan-Lael Spring Workshops are back, offering a rare chance to learn hands-on art techniques in one of...
Natalie Gonzalez creation
If you’re looking for a thoughtful, visually stunning cultural experience this spring, Ventana Huichola at Oceanside Museum of Art should be on your list. This...
Recently Featured Restaurants
Dora, a vibrant new Southern Italian restaurant from the husband-and-wife team behind Cori Trattoria, is set to open in La Jolla’s Theater District this fall—and...
There’s a breezy new addition to Little Italy’s dining scene! Brisa, an island vibes and Latin-Japanese fusion restaurant, is now open at the corner of...
Downtown La Mesa has a delicious new addition—Tour de Tapas, a restaurant offering Euro small plates and sips inspired by the culinary traditions of Spain,...
Tajima Crown Point is the latest addition to San Diego’s beloved ramen scene, officially opened on December 14 at 3782 Ingraham Street. Known for its...
Wildland in Carlsbad Village is officially opening its doors, bringing rustic cuisine and coastal-inspired dining to North County. This all-day restaurant, bar, and bakery from...
Aldea in La Jolla, a 2024 runner-up for San Diego Magazine’s “Best New Restaurant,” is setting a new standard for bold Baja-inspired cuisine and elevated...