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.

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!

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.

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 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, 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

One-of-a-Kind Finds – Union Hall Gallery Hosts Fine Art & 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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 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 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 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 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.

Art Alive Returns to SDMA for a Stunning Floral Celebration

April 24–27

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.

Get out there and enjoy our amazing city!

See you there, San Diego!