Things to Do in San Diego in May
May in San Diego is packed with can’t-miss festivals and coastal celebrations.
Dance to zydeco beats at Gator by the Bay, sip and sample your way through the Taste of Cardiff, explore creativity at the Coronado Art & Wine Festival, and soak up sun and music at Fiesta del Sol – there’s something for every kind of weekend plan.
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!
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.
Cinco De Mayo Specials Around San Diego
Get ready to celebrate Cinco de Mayo in style with specials from your favorite restaurants and bars across San Diego!
Where to Celebrate Mom This Mother’s Day in San Diego
It’s time to roll out the red carpet and treat Mom like the queen she is this Mother’s Day! We bet you’ll find something she’ll love in our guide to the top San Diego restaurants, hotels, spas, and more, offering specials to help you celebrate the amazing moms in your life.
North Park San Diego: The Complete Neighborhood Guide
This is the locals’ guide to North Park in 2026: what just opened, where to eat, where to drink, where to grab coffee, and how to spend an actual day here. We update it every month because North Park moves that fast.
The Best Rooftop Bars in San Diego Right Now
From the classics that define the category to a few lesser-known spots that reward the people who know where to look, these are the San Diego rooftop bars worth planning a night around in 2026.
Catch Movies Under the Stars All Month Long at Rooftop Cinema Club
Movie nights get a major upgrade this May with over 80 films, themed events, and skyline views in Little Italy. From fan-favorite classics to sing-alongs, dog-friendly screenings, and special nights, this open-air cinema experience delivers the perfect mix of entertainment, atmosphere, and unforgettable rooftop vibes.
Cruise Into Summer Nights at Cajon Cruise in El Cajon
Every Wednesday
Rev up your midweek plans at this summer tradition where classic cars, modern rides, and gleaming chrome line the streets. Enjoy live music, local eats, and a welcoming community vibe as Main Street transforms into a gathering spot for families, car lovers, and anyone chasing fun summer nights.
Carté Hotel in Little Italy Has a Packed May
Rooftop house music, a Memorial Day poolside BBQ, an intimate Sofar Sounds showcase celebrating AAPI Heritage Month, a Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon finish line party, and Padres watch parties with wagyu burgers and poke bowls. Carté Hotel is giving Little Italy a busy month.
Out at the Park: Pride Night at Petco Park
May 1
Celebrate community, inclusion, and baseball at this Pride Night experience. Enjoy the game alongside a festive crowd, themed entertainment, and special moments that highlight love and diversity. It’s more than a ballgame – it’s a joyful gathering of fans coming together for an unforgettable night at the ballpark.
Grab Your Crew for a Cinco de Mayo Fiesta in the Gaslamp
May 1
Turn up the energy in the Gaslamp Quarter with a citywide fiesta packed with tacos, tequila, and nonstop entertainment. Hop between venues, enjoy welcome drinks, and soak in music, dancing, and festive vibes. It’s a high-energy celebration of culture, flavor, and nightlife in the heart of downtown.
Experience Star Wars Like Never Before Under the Stars
May 1
Step into a galaxy far, far away as the iconic film comes alive with a full symphony orchestra performing its legendary score in sync with the movie. From thrilling battles to unforgettable themes, this immersive concert transforms a classic cinematic adventure into a powerful, one-of-a-kind live experience.
Dance, Dine & Celebrate at Viva La Música at SeaWorld
May 1 -17
Turn up the energy at this festival celebrating Latin culture with live concerts, authentic cuisine, and entertainment throughout the park. From high-energy performances to flavorful bites and cultural showcases, it’s a lively, family-friendly experience that brings music, flavor, and community together by the bay.
Unlock San Diego’s Cultural Treasures With The Big Exchange
May 1 – 18
The Big Exchange turns your museum membership into an all-access pass, unlocking free entry to more than 50 cultural destinations across San Diego. Explore museums, gardens, aquariums, and historic sites, discover new favorites, and experience the region’s vibrant arts scene through this exciting, community-wide cultural celebration.
Shop Local & Soak Up Spring at La Mesa Village
May 2
Celebrate creativity and community at this outdoor market featuring over 120 local makers, unique handmade goods, and interactive experiences. Stroll through charming streets filled with music, food, and art while discovering one-of-a-kind finds. It’s a feel-good day supporting small businesses and local talent.
Saddle Up for Good Vibes & Tan Lines on the Rooftop
May 2
Kick back at a sun-soaked rooftop party with western flair, where live music, DJs, and line dancing keep the energy high. Sip cold drinks, enjoy themed bites, and play lawn games while soaking in skyline views. It’s a hangout made for dancing, mingling, and daytime vibes.
Get Inspired by Bold, Boundary-Pushing Art at Matrix Multiplied
On view starting May 2
Step into a dynamic exhibition where artists redefine printmaking through experimental, hybrid techniques. Discover layered works blending traditional methods with digital processes, collage, and sculpture. With multiple mediums and thought-provoking themes, this immersive showcase invites you to explore creativity, storytelling, and the intricate process behind each striking piece.
Dress to Impress for a Night at the Opera Ball
May 2
Step into an elegant evening of music and culture at this Spanish-inspired gala in La Jolla. Indulge in tapas, dinner, and operatic performances, then dance the night away at an after-party. It’s a glamorous night bringing the community together and supporting the arts.
Shine Bright at Jewels of the Cosmos: A Gala for a Cause
May 2
Step into a celestial-inspired evening of elegance, where shimmering décor, fine dining, and entertainment set the stage. Enjoy dancing and auctions while supporting meaningful community initiatives. This glamorous fundraiser blends cosmic wonder with philanthropy, creating a night where celebration and impact truly take flight.
Sip, Savor, and Go Wild at the Zoo’s Tastiest Night Out
May 2
Indulge in an all-inclusive evening of bites, brews, and wines from top local vendors as you explore the San Diego Zoo after hours. Enjoy live entertainment, unique wildlife encounters, and party zones – all while supporting global conservation efforts in this culinary celebration.
Step Into Stillness at Kate Tova’s Immersive Art Exhibition
Opens May 2
Slow down and explore a deeply personal, visually striking exhibition that reflects on burnout, rest, and renewal. Wander through immersive galleries filled with dreamlike landscapes and dynamic works that invite reflection, healing, and pause – offering a rare moment to reconnect with yourself in today’s fast-paced world.
Step Into the Avant-Garde at MCASD
May 2 – 3
Enter a high-energy celebration where art, fashion, and music collide in a one-of-a-kind museum takeover. Expect immersive installations, live DJs, and expressive style inspired by contemporary art. It’s a boundary-pushing night designed for creatives ready to celebrate culture and self-expression.
Sip, Savor & Unwind at L’Auberge Uncorked
May 3
Raise a glass at this oceanfront wine celebration featuring exceptional local and international vintages. Meet winemakers, enjoy live music, and indulge in gourmet bites while taking in stunning coastal views. It’s a relaxed yet refined experience that blends great wine, good company, and laid-back luxury by the sea.
Create, Explore & Connect at Growing Together in La Jolla
May 3
Bring the whole family for a creative, community-driven day filled with art, music, and hands-on fun. Explore La Jolla’s vibrant murals through an interactive tour, enjoy workshops, live performances, and playful activities, and help create a collaborative artwork.
Cinematic Escape at the San Diego French Film Festival
May 3 – 7
Immerse yourself in a captivating lineup of contemporary francophone films showcasing diverse stories, cultures, and perspectives. Enjoy screenings, filmmaker appearances, and a cultural atmosphere that brings the beauty of French-language cinema to life. An inspiring experience for film lovers and curious minds alike.
Chase the Golden Hour & Celebrate Local Art in San Diego
May 7
Experience an evening celebrating youth creativity through immersive art installations, interactive exhibits, and live entertainment. Enjoy music, food, and hands-on activities while exploring works created by local students. It’s a feel-good, community-driven event that brings art, connection, and creativity together.
Taste Your Way Through Cardiff’s Best Bites & Sips
May 7
Stroll through charming Cardiff-by-the-Sea and sample standout dishes, craft drinks, and local favorites at every stop. With live music, vibrant energy, and plenty of delicious discoveries, this community celebration offers an evening of flavor and coastal vibes.
Let the Good Times Roll at Gator by the Bay
May 7 – 10
Dive into a Louisiana-style festival filled with zydeco, blues, and nonstop dancing by the waterfront. Savor authentic Cajun and Creole flavors – from gumbo to fresh crawfish – while enjoying over 100 live performances. It’s a family-friendly celebration bursting with music, culture, and bayou-inspired fun.
Show Up for a Cause at the Phillip Collum Scholarship Fundraiser
May 8
Honor a meaningful legacy at this heartfelt evening dedicated to supporting students through scholarship opportunities. Enjoy a welcoming atmosphere, community connection, and inspiring moments that celebrate giving back. It’s a purpose-driven gathering where every contribution helps open doors and create brighter futures.
Yoga Among the Orchids at San Diego Botanic Garden
May 9
San Diego Botanic Garden’s Open Air Yoga puts you in the middle of lush gardens for a gentle morning class – fresh air, natural sounds, and actual nature as your backdrop. Stick around after to explore Orchids in the Wild, with hundreds of orchids displayed across immersive tropical environments.
Sip, Stroll & Discover at the Coronado Art & Wine Festival
May 9
Spend the day wandering Coronado’s charming streets while exploring over 100 artist booths. Enjoy live music, curated wine tastings, and gourmet bites, all set against a coastal backdrop. This festival blends art, flavor, and community – while supporting local schools.
Good Music, Free Treats, and a Neighborhood Worth Wandering
May 9
Kensington’s Spring Walkabout is back for its 8th year – and it’s completely free. Grab your stamp card, wander through the Village, and collect treats and giveaways from local businesses along the way. Live jazz, a chance to win some great prizes, and a beautiful neighborhood to explore. What more do you need?
A Balboa Park Tradition is Back
May 9 & 10
The 38th Annual Balboa Park Pow Wow returns, bringing together Native singers, drummers, and dancers from across the Southwest for a free, family-friendly weekend of Indigenous music, dance, and art. Find handcrafted jewelry, taste fry bread, and experience a celebration of heritage that’s been a San Diego staple for nearly four decades.
Build a Better Burger and Win at barleymash
Kicking off May 10
barleymash is running a burger contest all month – cook your best burger, post it on Instagram or TikTok tagging barleymash, and Executive Chef Kevin Templeton judges. The winner gets their burger on the menu, a content shoot with Chef Kevin, and a month of free burgers.
Roll Up Your Sleeve & Back Your Crew at San Diego’s First Responder Blood Drive
May 10 -23
Join a meaningful community effort where giving back meets a little friendly competition. Support your favorite first responder team as agencies go head-to-head in donation counts, all while helping save lives. It’s a simple, powerful way to make an impact and show up for those who serve San Diego.
Take Your Yoga Practice Outside at San Diego Botanic Garden
May 14 & 16
One hour of gentle movement surrounded by lush gardens in Encinitas – San Diego Botanic Garden’s Open Air Yoga is the kind of class that actually feels like an escape. Stick around after to explore Orchids in the Wild, running through early June.
Kona Kai’s Beach Bake & Shake
May 14
Dig into a coastal feast with a California twist on a classic clambake, featuring fresh seafood, seasonal bites, and laid-back beachside fun. Enjoy games, music, and waterfront vibes as you relax, mingle, and savor every bite at this gathering by the bay.
The Nat After Dark
May 15
Every Friday night, the San Diego Natural History Museum stays open late for Nat at Night – five floors of exhibits, rooftop drinks, small bites from Wolf in the Woods, tacos from The Craft Taco, and admission that drops to half price after 5 PM. Science has never looked this good.
Make an Impact at Concert for Cures
May 15
Experience an unforgettable night at Petco Park as global superstar P!NK headlines a powerful concert for a cause. Enjoy high-energy performances while joining a community united by music and hope. Every ticket supports lifesaving cancer research, making this more than a show – it’s a meaningful, purpose-driven celebration.
Beach Sport, Craft Beer, and Food Trucks at the OTL Beer Fest
May 16
The 10th Annual Over the Line Beer Fest at Mariner’s Point combines competitive beach sport with San Diego craft beer and a fleet of food trucks. Whether you’re playing, watching, or just working through the beer lineup, it’s a full day well spent.
Shop Small, Shop Local: The San Diego Spring Market is Back
May 16 – 17
Over 100 independent makers, artists, and small brands are taking over Port Pavilion at Broadway Pier for two days of shopping, DIY stations, photo walls, and good snacks. Tickets are flexible and budget-friendly, kids under 12 are free, and everyone goes home with a tote bag.
San Diego’s AANHPI Eats Week is Back
May 16 – 24
Seven AANHPI-owned restaurants across San Diego are offering exclusive prix-fixe menus and specials for nine days in honor of AANHPI Heritage Month. Hakata ramen, Vietnamese-French cooking, Hawaiian fusion, and more – all from family-run kitchens with real stories behind the food.
The Oldest Children’s Kite Festival in the US is Right Here in Ocean Beach
May 16
Running since 1948, the Ocean Beach Kite Festival is free, open to everyone, and exactly as fun as it sounds. Kite building, flying demos, games, crafts, and food at Robb Field – with the whole neighborhood showing up to fill the sky with color.
Step Inside La Jolla’s Hidden Gardens for a Rare Escape
May 16
Unlock the gates to some of La Jolla’s most stunning private gardens, rarely open to the public. Wander through lush landscapes, discover unique designs, and enjoy live music and artistic touches along the way.
Bring the Whole Crew for a Day of Culture, Music & Bayfront Fun in Barrio Logan
May 16
Enjoy a family-friendly celebration along the Barrio Logan waterfront, filled with live performances, cultural showcases, and interactive activities for all ages. From music and dancing to games, art, and local vendors.
Free Art Tours Are Coming to Cyclovia
May 17
Cyclovia is going next level this year. Free guided walking tours are launching along the car-free route, led by local historians who know every mural, mosaic, and sculpture on these streets. Two tour lengths, zero cost, and stories you won’t find anywhere else. Sign up on the spot.
Downtown Escondido’s Annual Street Festival is Worth the Drive North
May 17
Nearly 30 years in, the Escondido Street Festival takes over Historic Grand Avenue with hundreds of vendors, multiple live music stages, a beer and wine garden, and a full spread of local and international food. Free to attend and worth the trip up north.
The Craft Tequila Conversation Comes to San Diego
May 17
The Tahona Tour lands at Solare Lounge for an afternoon of guided tastings and real talk about what “craft tequila” actually means. Featuring Volcan de mi Tierra, Fortaleza, Alto Canto, Trujillo, and Agave Matchmaker, the event includes a presentation, panel discussion, and plenty of pours worth paying attention to.
REGENERATE! Returns to Coastal Roots Farm
May 17
Coastal Roots Farm’s REGENERATE! Eco-Performance Fest returns for its third year with four original works blending Jewish tradition, ecological storytelling, dance, and live music – all set across a working farm in Encinitas as the sun goes down. Choose your performance stream, then party in between.
Run Across the Coronado Bridge at the Navy Bay Bridge Run/Walk
Not many races put you on the Coronado Bridge with bay views the whole way. The 39th Navy Bay Bridge Run/Walk offers a four-mile or 10K option, both crossing the bridge, with proceeds supporting quality-of-life programs for San Diego’s military community.
Eat Your Way Through Pacific Beach This Wednesday
May 20
One ticket gets you a self-guided tour through Pacific Beach’s best restaurants and shops along Garnet Avenue – fresh seafood, tacos, cocktails, sweet treats, and more. Come hungry and plan to discover a few new favorites along the way.
Pedal Your Way Across San Diego for Bike Anywhere Day
May 21
Join a region-wide celebration of biking that invites you to ride anywhere – from work to the beach – while exploring San Diego’s extensive bikeways. Stop by fun pit stops for freebies, snacks, and community vibes, all while promoting a healthier, more sustainable way to get around.
Grand Social is Back at Fairmont Grand Del Mar
Starts May 22
Fairmont Grand Del Mar’s outdoor music series runs every Friday and Saturday this summer – live performances across three levels with bocce courts, wood-fired dishes, handcrafted cocktails, and private fire pit cabanas. May kicks off with Yacht Rock, Americana, Cuban Latin, and a 90s night.
SeaWorld’s Summer Spectacular is Here
Kicking off May 22
A nightly drone show, a new Shark Encounter exhibit, reimagined animal experiences, and live concerts every Saturday through late August – SeaWorld San Diego is stacking the lineup this summer. Plenty of reasons to go more than once.
SeaWorld San Diego is Lighting Up the Night Sky This Summer
Begins May 22
SeaWorld’s new nightly drone show, Ocean of Dreams, sends 600 synchronized drones into the sky for a 12-minute aerial display of sea creatures and neon light formations. It’s California’s first nightly drone show, and it runs all summer alongside a new Shark Encounter exhibit and live concerts.
Come Face-to-Fin With Sharks at SeaWorld’s Shark Encounter
Opens May 22
Dive into an immersive underwater journey where sharks glide above and around you in a stunning walk-through tunnel. Discover multiple species up close, explore interactive exhibits, and learn about shark behavior and conservation. This thrilling experience blends education and adventure for a jaw-dropping look at ocean life.
Start Your Day With Purpose at the Harvey Milk Diversity Breakfast
May 22
Gather with community leaders, advocates, and allies for a morning honoring the legacy of Harvey Milk. Celebrate diversity, recognize changemakers, and uplift voices working toward equality in this meaningful event that brings people together in the spirit of unity, hope, and lasting impact.
The Best Free Saturday Morning in San Diego
May 23
Fit Athletic is bringing a free, all-levels vinyasa flow class to The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park – one of the most beautiful open-air waterfront settings in the city. Led by instructor Viktoria Talbot, this one-hour session welcomes all skill levels. Space is limited, so lock in your spot early.
Meet the Founders Behind Fierce & Kind: The Human Spirit
May 25
Come meet Basem and Cyndi in person, taste what they’ve been working on, and pair it all with hors d’oeuvres in one of San Diego’s best whiskey bars. It’s an exclusive, intimate event – the kind where you actually get to hear the story directly from the people who lived it.
A Fireside Chat in South Park Worth Clearing Your Wednesday For
May 27
Parlay House San Diego hosts transformational coach and bestselling author Hema Crockett for an honest conversation about perfectionism – what it costs, where it comes from, and what becomes possible when you stop performing. Real talk, shared stories, and a room full of people who get it.
Stand Up for Service: Military Comics Take the Mic Drop Stage
May 27
San Diego’s Armed Services Arts Partnership is hosting a fundraiser showcase at Mic Drop Comedy Club, featuring a lineup of military-affiliated comics bringing sharp jokes and honest stories to the stage. Every ticket supports creative arts programs for the local military community. Free parking, no item minimum – just a great night out for a great cause.
Pull Up a Seat at the Vintners Table for an Unforgettable Wine Experience
May 28
Gather around for an intimate evening where local winemakers share their craft over a thoughtfully curated, multi-course meal. Savor expertly paired wines, seasonal dishes, and rich storytelling in a warm, vineyard setting.
Free Hip Hop Night is Hitting the Streets of North City
May 29
San Marcos is throwing a street party, and it’s completely free. North City’s “Dancing in the Street” series returns with live hip hop performances, a guided dance class, open dancing, a DJ, farmers market, and food and drinks from local eateries. All ages, all experience levels, all welcome.
The Catalina Wine Mixer is the Perfect Excuse to Spend a Weekend on the Island
May 29 – 30
Escape to a sun-soaked beach party where fine wines, live music, and nonstop energy take over the shoreline. Sip curated tastings, dance to top DJs, and soak in oceanfront vibes at Descanso Beach Club. It’s a high-energy island celebration blending music, flavor, and coastal fun.
See How Contemporary Ballet Gets Made – Live Onstage
May 29 – May 31
The Rosin Box Project pulls back the curtain with Incubator Lab: The Making, Magnified – three nights at the Light Box Theater at Liberty Station where dancers workshop new choreography in real time, right in front of the audience. It’s contemporary ballet at its most raw and unfiltered.
Go Wild for a Cause at Lions, Tigers & Bears’ Country Gala
May 30
Step into a one-of-a-kind countryside celebration where live entertainment, gourmet dining, and exciting auctions come together for a meaningful cause. Enjoy up-close moments with rescued animals while supporting their care and protection.
Feel the Rhythm & Soak Up the Sun at Fiesta del Sol
May 30 – 31
Kick off summer at this free, beachside celebration filled with live music, local art, delicious food, and family-friendly fun. Dance to nonstop performances, browse unique vendors, and enjoy oceanfront vibes.
Get out there and enjoy our amazing city!
See you there, San Diego!
