With summer in full swing, there’s plenty of things to discover in San Diego!
It’s August which means it’s about time we make the most of the last months of summer in the city. Luckily there are plenty of ways to enjoy the summer fun in sunny San Diego! From food festivals to dazzling exhibits and pool parties, here are 10 fabulous things to do in San Diego this August
San Diego Museum of Art
The SDMA has world-class exhibitions year-round. One of which is Monet to Matisse: Impressionist Masterpieces from the Bemberg Foundation. This spectacular works in this exhibition were collected by Georges Bemberg (1915–2011). The Argentine-French writer and musician managed to amass one of the finest art collections in all of Europe, and now we San Diegans have access to all of its wonders! The exhibition was recently extended until October 10!
On August 6 San Diego Museum of Art’s book club, Art of Reading, highlights fictional works which pair with the museum’s exhibits. This August, the club will discuss Deborah Davis’ Strapless: John Singer Sargent and the Fall of Madame X. It may seem strange to us now, but this gorgeous painting caused a colossal scandal and brought ruin to the model Madame X.
Location: 1450 El Prado, San Diego
San Diego Soul Food Fest
Make sure to save your appetite on Saturday, August 6, because the city will have one amazing culinary event, the San Diego Soul Food Festival! Delicious food from across the diaspora will tickle your taste buds and hopefully expose you to the vast range of food from local businesses, both large and small. Different black-owned eateries will be highlighted, and we can’t wait to try all the food! The general admission tickets provide access to various food vendors, entertainment, chef panels, and more! The tasting tickets provide the previous and three tastings from any of the participating vendors. The festival takes place from 11 am to 3 pm.
Location: 4000 University Avenue, San Diego
ArtWalk @ Liberty Station
This year marks the 16th ArtWalk in the beautiful Liberty Station. What is particularly impressive about this event is how it celebrates art from both sides of the border! There will be over 150 artists from several states in the U.S and Mexico to demonstrate their notable works of art. The Art District at Liberty Sation will have paintings, photography, glass and ceramic, jewelry, and sculpture. This is one of San Diego’s premier venues for the arts, museums, dining, and entertainment. The fabulous outdoor setting is perfect for those who continue to feel more comfortable outdoors. They have a verdant lawn, show-stopping water features, and even free parking!
Location: 2751 Dewey Road
Toro Nagashi Festival
The Japanese Friendship Garden will host the Toro Nagashi Festival. During the festival, the Bon Odori will be performed. It is a traditional style of dance that honors the spirit of one’s ancestors. The festival will take place on August 5 and 6 from 10 am to 6 pm. There will be many things to enjoy: delicious food, Taiko Drummers, a Japanese chorus, Bon Odori, and Toro Nagashi! The floating lanterns or Toro Nagashi will take place in the flower garden. There will also be DIY floating lanterns available for sale in the Inamori Pavilion.
Location: 2215 Pan American Rd E, San Diego
Bike The Bay
San Diego is a really outdoorsy city. However, suppose you haven’t exercised erm.. as much as you should. In that case, this Bike The Bay is a perfect chance to exercise in a fun and different setting. On August 22 the ride will start at Embarcadero Marina Park South. This non-competitive 25-mile bike ride and perfect for all abilities. The mostly flat ride covers the San Diego Bay via the Bayshore Bikeway. It is a one-time chance to ride your bike over the Coronado Bay Bridge! After a fantastic ride, there will be festivities to enjoy, such as food, beverage, a beer garden, and entertainment at Embarcadero Marina Park South.
Location: Embarcadero Marina Park South
Film in the Garden
Do you love watching great films from around the world? Pick out your spot. We recommend getting there early, around 5 pm. The movies start at 8:00 pm. These outdoor films are brought to you by the SDMA exhibit on the Botanical lawn in Balboa Park. We recommend you make a whole lovely picnic out of it and bring a blanket and dinner. Your dog is also allowed!
Location: 1450 El Prado, San Diego
Dog Days Of Summer
Dog Days of Summer is the biggest dog-centered event in town! This all-day event brings in over 10,000 attendees from all over San Diego. The event takes place on August 8 from 11 am until 5 pm. You’ll find vendors, pet adoptions from local shelters and rescue organizations, dog and kid zones! We recommend that your dog be dressed to the nines since a doggie photo booth is waiting for them.
Location: Encinitas Community Park, 425 Santa Fe Dr.
Chauffeured Vineyard Adventure
Wine and gourmet food sounds like the perfect day for us! This VIP adventure is a perfect afternoon of fun for all wine lovers! The tours operate from Wednesdays to Sundays. The pick-up time on Sat/Sun is between 10:30 am, and 11:45 am, and drop-off is at 6p m. On weekdays these are one hour later. This winter tasting VIP experience was voted #1 for Food and Drink on TripAdvisor and delighted guests since 2010. On your tour, you’ll get an expert local guide to take you to the best that San Diego has to offer!
San Diego Dog Beach
San Diego beach days are pretty much perfect. However, bringing your good boi will make them even better! Dog Beach in Ocean Beach is a fantastic option, and your good boy or girl will absolutely love it! The dog paradise known as Dog Beach is the northern portion of Ocean Beach. Dog Beach is a vast sandy wonderland perfect for a day of fetch!
Location: 1950 Abbott St, San Diego
North Park Farmers Market
August days are ideal for visiting a farmer’s market. The North Park Farmers Market is a fantastic option and is on every Thursday, rain or shine, from 3 to 7:30 pm! You will have a wonderful time picking out the freshest local produce, flowers, and delicious food. You’ll find vendors specializing in goods like fresh micro greens, empanadas, home-baked goods, macramé, and so much more! You will have a fabulous time shopping and eating all day long!
Location: between 29th and Ray Street on North Park Way, San Diego
Featured image: Shutterstock