Things to Do in San Diego in July

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 4th of July Fireworks Shows in San Diego

Come along as we guide you through where to find the best 4th of July fireworks displays our city has to offer. Whether you’re a seasoned local or a newbie just figuring out how to pronounce “La Jolla,” we’ve got you covered. Buckle up and prepare for a 4th of July fireworks show in San Diego that’ll knock your flip-flops off!

Check Out These Comic-Con Food, Drink, and Party Specials!

What would Comic-Con be without Comic-Con food, drinks, and parties?! Here’s a run-down of some of the most interesting specials we’ve seen around town!

Outdoors at ARTS DISTRICT Liberty Station: Art, Music, and More

Find a new favorite pastime outdoors and bask in the sun at ARTS DISTRICT Liberty Station this month. As summer sets in, this vibrant arts and culture center will be hosting a huge array of experiences and activities.

4th of July Specials Around San Diego

From fireworks displays to BBQ feasts, seafood delicacies, and special events, there’s something for everyone. So, grab your friends and family and head out to your local favorites to savor the flavors and celebrate the 4th of July in San Diego!

Start Off Your Weekends With Nat at Night

This is your chance to explore all four floors of the Museum, test your trivia knowledge at Trivia in the Atrium, and hit the rooftop for a San Diego sunset and TGIF cocktail while enjoying delicious bites from Wolf in the Woods. It’s the perfect way to ease into the weekend!

Cuddle up Under the Stars for Movies on Del Beach

Talk about a uniquely ‘San Diego’ experience! Snuggle up on Del Beach for your favorite family movies and cult classics in a theater under the stars! Stay cozy around a private bonfire with s’mores and relax in a beach daybed while you watch for an upscale experience, or sit right on the beach in Del Beach sand chairs.

Celebrate Music Sin Fronteras at the ARTS DISTRICT Summer Music Series

Summer is here, and live music at ARTS DISTRICT Liberty Station is in full swing with the Summer Music Series!

Watch a Movie With a View at Manchester Grand Hyatt

The Rooftop Cinema Club at the Manchester Grand Hyatt Embarcadero has unveiled its new late-summer lineup of +150 new releases and yesteryear hits, as well as exciting special events.

An Explosion of Sound at the San Diego International Summer Organ Festival

Every Monday evening, you can enjoy a moving performance at the 36th annual San Diego International Summer Organ Festival—the largest organ festival in the U.S.

July Nature Events for the Whole Family

Nature Collective is a local conservation and science education nonprofit organization that works to restore habitats, provide healthier waters, and increase wildlife diversity. They are dedicated to providing experiences for people to fall in love with nature. Don’t miss these special events!

Experience the Magic of Balboa Park’s Twilight in the Park Concert

Tuesdays to Thursdays

From June through August, the Twilight in the Park Concert Series brings together music lovers from across the region for evenings filled with melodious tunes and a lively atmosphere.

San Diego County Fair Goes Retro!

Ends July 7

The 2024 San Diego Fair will celebrate past decades, from the ’50s to the ’90s, with themed activities and attractions. Experience the ‘50s happy days, ‘60s twists, ‘70s disco, ‘80s big hair, and ‘90s flannel, all under the San Diego sun.

11 Things to Do In San Diego For the 4th Of July

July 4

Looking for things to do in San Diego for the 4th of July? You’re in luck—there is no better place to celebrate the 4th of July than America’s Finest City! From the beautiful beaches that beckon people from near and far to the festive community events that stretch back generations, there’s something to do in practically every neighborhood.

Experience an Old-fashioned 4th of July at Old Town San Diego

July 4

California State Parks invites you to celebrate an old-fashioned 4th of July at Old Town San Diego State Historic Park! Join park staff and volunteers celebrating as early San Diego residents did in the 1800s with games, crafts, and live music from Billy Lee and the Swamp Critters!

Enjoy BBQ and Fireworks on the Berkeley Deck This 4th of July

July 4

Dig into a yummy 4th of July BBQ dinner and enjoy spectacular fireworks viewing from the McKinney Deck of the 1898 Berkeley or the waterfront barge to the rear of the Berkeley.

The Commodores This 4th of July at The Rady Shell

July 4

Celebrate the 4th of July at The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park with the Commodores! Then relax and stay after the concert for a front-row seat to the Big Bay Boom fireworks display over San Diego Bay.

Ziggy Marley to Perform With The San Diego Symphony Orchestra

July 5

Ziggy Marley joins the San Diego Symphony Orchestra for an evening of music at The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park. This event is one of the stops on his Circle of Peace Tour.

Get Your Party On at Belmont Park’s Almost Nakey Freedom Fest!

July 6

Get ready for an epic celebration at the Almost Nakey Freedom Fest at The Plunge and Beach House in Belmont Park! This 4th of July weekend marks the 99th anniversary of Belmont Park and the 248th anniversary of the USA. Don’t miss the festivities!

Harry Connick Jr. Live at The Rady Shell

July 6

Enjoy a spectacular evening with Harry Connick Jr. at The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park! Set against the stunning backdrop of San Diego Bay, this event promises an unforgettable performance by the renowned musician, blending his signature style of jazz, pop, and swing.

Family Fun: Tanabata Festival at the Japanese Friendship Garden

July 7

Enjoy the summer sun and join the Tanabata Festival at the Japanese Friendship Garden! Originating from Chinese folklore, the Tanabata celebration centers on the meeting of Orihime and Hikoboshi. This year’s festival will be full of kid-friendly fun, like games, performances, crafts, and great food!

One Night Only – Japanese & Italian Flavors Collide in San Diego

July 9

Two culinary forces, Ambrogio by Acquerello and Matsu, are joining together for a can’t-miss evening! Prepare for an incredible evening that will feature creative dishes and one-of-a-kind culinary creations using the best of seasonal ingredients.

Kick Off San Diego Swim Week in Style: Cover Release Party at Techo Beso

July 11

During the party, SDSW will unveil the 2024 magazine cover, featuring the hottest swimwear trends of the season from showcasing designers. Mingle with industry insiders and fashion enthusiasts under the starlit sky with music, cocktails, and plenty of style inspiration!

Beethoven by the Bay: An Evening of Classical Masterpieces

July 12

Experience the elegance of classical music at this annual all-Beethoven concert presented by the San Diego Symphony at The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park. Enjoy a night under the stars while immersing yourself in the timeless beauty of Beethoven’s masterpieces​.

Celebrate the East Village Community at the 12th Annual East Village Block Party

July 13

Featuring local small businesses, live music and entertainment, tasty bites, beer and cocktails, local retail vendors, photo opportunities, and a bunch of fun family-friendly activities, the event will celebrate the return of East Village’s very own San Diego Padres.

Grand Cinema Under the Stars at Fairmont Grand Del Mar

July 13

Fairmont Grand Del Mar is thrilled to bring Grand Cinema Under the Stars, presented by Fatboy, a global furniture and lighting lifestyle brand, to the resort this summer. Enjoy movie nights at the resort’s newly reimagined outdoor lounge, Grand Social, while relaxing on Fatboy’s one-of-a-kind loungers.

Sound Strike and Marine Band to Light Up Little Italy

July 13

The Marine Band’s full 40-member group and renowned local ensemble “Sound Strike” will take over the Piazza della Famiglia, bringing with them the vibrant sounds and lively energy for the Marine Band San Diego Summer Concert!

Shark Summer Makes a Splash at Birch Aquarium

Starts July 13

It’s Shark Summer at Birch Aquarium! Have you ever wondered what species swim in our local waters? Or wanted to know what makes sharks such unique animals? This July, dive deep into the world of these amazing animals, with fin-tastic fun for shark fans of all ages!

Savor the Flavor at Camino Fest

July 14

Camino Fest 2024 isn’t just a festival; it’s a celebration of community. With family-friendly activities and a chill vibe, it’s perfect for everyone. Whether you’re a music lover, foodie, or just looking for a fun day out, Camino Fest 2024 has something for you!

Get Your Bets And Your Best Attire Ready…It’s Opening Day At Del Mar!

July 20

There’s race day… and then there’s Opening Day! Attracting thousands of locals and visitors alike, the West Coast tradition will feature fan-favorite events like the Hats Contest, the return of the Opening Day Party and the official After Pony Party.

Pride 5K Run and Walk Kicks Off Local Pride Festivities

July 20

Dress up in your wackiest rainbow outfit, lace up your shoes, and meet up in Hillcrest. This event, sponsored by Mission Fed Credit Union, is a kickoff to the annual Pride Week festivities in San Diego.

Join the After Pony Party Fun at Rancho Valencia!

July 20

To kick-off race season in style this summer, Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa will once again host their annual exclusive After Pony Party—the official opening day after party of the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club. Our most reliable party-going friends tell us that this party is the place to be for opening day!

The Annual San Diego Pride Parade is Back!

July 20

The annual San Diego Pride Parade is the largest single-day civic event in the region, and is among the largest Prides in the United States, attracting over 250,000 cheering supporters of the LGBTQ community!

Vibes by the Bay: San Diego Bayfest 2024 With Sublime and More!

July 20

You’re in for an unforgettable experience at this year’s San Diego Bayfest with its impressive lineup of artists! This year’s festival will showcase performances by Sublime with original members Eric Wilson and Bud Gaugh, featuring Jakob Nowell, Atmosphere, Goldfinger, Barrington Levy, Makua Rothman, and Kyle Smith.

Be Out and Proud at San Diego Pride Festival 2024!

July 20

The annual Pride Festival includes multiple entertainment stages, +100 entertainers with a diverse lineup of performances, dozens of vendor booths, exhibits, cultural presentations, delicious food booths, and over 40,000 of your closest friends!

A Night of Jazz With the Lao Tizer Band

July 20

DownBeat “Jazz Group of the Year ” nominee The Lao Tizer Band will make their debut appearance at Lou Lou’s Jungle Room in support of their forthcoming August 2024 album and video release, AMPLIFY.

Unleash the Fun at the Annual Cardiff Dog Days of Summer

July 21

This fur-tastic, FREE event features a variety of dog-related vendors, rescue groups, pet adoption agencies, an exciting agility course, and a swift paws lure course. The San Diego Fire Department will also be putting on various rescue demonstrations throughout the day.

Your Family’s Next Movie Night – Moana at North City Plaza!

July 26

Movie lovers and voyagers alike are invited to North City’s plaza to watch the family-favorite movie and enjoy special appearances from themed movie characters Moana and Maui, and maybe even a surprise visit from Hei Hei, the rooster!

Hit Up the Best Bars in Town With Comic Con Bar Crawl San Diego

July 27

Calling all heroes and villains! Join +300 guests at the Comic Con Bar Crawl San Diego! Come in your best cosplay and roam the streets of Gaslamp, stopping in and out of over 10 bars and nightclubs with one all-access pass.

Unleash Your Inner Connoisseur: Whiskies of the World in SD

July 27

The highly anticipated Whiskies of the World event, America’s largest whiskey-tasting tour, returns to San Diego this year with more than 150 expressions from the globe’s most sought-after distillers and makers for the ultimate tasting experience.