September is a magical month in San Diego, whether you’re ready to leave the summer behind or not. You can start scouting for apple-picking spots and pumpkin patches, but you can also escape to a beach for a brunch with views, or enjoy a refreshing ice cream. This month is whatever you want it to be! Here are 12 fun things to do in September, for some inspiration.
1. CRSSD
This fall, CRSSD Festival comes back to San Diego to celebrate a major milestone: 10 years of showcasing the very best in house, techno, and electronic music. Since debuting in 2015, CRSSD has earned a reputation as one of the country’s most beloved festivals for dance music fans. Unlike the typical EDM experience, its atmosphere is more laid-back and thoughtfully curated. Many describe it as a true “boutique festival.” This year’s line-up includes Empire of the Sun, John Summit, Chris Stussy, Boys Noize and more. It takes place on September 27 and 28, at Waterfront. For the full breakdown and more info, check out this page.
2. Del Mar Wine + Food Festival returns this September in San Diego
The Del Mar Wine + Food Festival has quickly become a standout event, with every edition living up to its reputation. Expect beloved industry stars like Guy Fieri and Troy Johnson, and mom-and-pop eateries serving dishes you’ll crave long after the weekend ends. Created by locals, the festival celebrates “the good life” with an epic coastal cookout, craft brewers, and acclaimed winemakers for an unparalleled tasting experience. It’s no wonder Thrillist named it one of the top food festivals in the nation! It takes place September 10 – 14, at Surf Sports Park in Del Mar.
3. Hispanic Heritage Month
This September in San Diego is a special time to celebrate and explore Hispanic cultures, and their wonderful achievements and contributions. From the Barrio Logan’s art crawl to Chicano Park and its museum, you’ll find plenty of events to mark this occasion. And don’t forget to support local business! Some of the best food we have in our city comes from the Hispanic community. Check out “the best chilaquiles in San Diego” at historical El Carrito, which used to be an old cable car, a shoeshine stand, and later on, a space for local politicians to meet.
4. Explore pumpkin patches
Yep, it’s that time of the year...pumpkin everything! From your lattes to your latest photo shoots, life gets orange this September in San Diego. There are plenty of spots that you can explore. One of our favorites is Bates Nut Farm, a century-old farm in beautiful Valley Center. For many families, this is a beloved yearly tradition – start yours, or keep it going. The season starts on September 18 and continues through the end of October.
5. America’s most haunted house
Halloween may be in October, but many of us are ready to get spooky. Luckily, we just happen to have America’s most haunted house right here in San Diego…also known as California’s Finest Home. The Whaley House was a central pillar of the Old Town San Diego community. It was also the city’s first commercial theater, the county courthouse, and a general store. But, the property was also infamous as the site where horse thief Yankee Jim Robinson was publicly executed. Moreover, Whaley’s son got sick and died of scarlet fever shortly after moving in. People report lingering paranormal activity ever since.
6. Taste of Gaslamp
San Diego’s longest-running tasting tour returns to the historic Gaslamp Quarter, featuring over 20 restaurants, chef-crafted bites, a self-guided foodie adventure, and an after party at Margaritaville’s rooftop. This beloved culinary event returns on September 20, from 1 – 4 PM. Tickets are $55 if bought in advance. It sells out every year, so don’t sleep on it!
7. Check out Queen Califia’s Magical Circle this September in San Diego
If you want to escape the “real world” for just a little while, head to Escondido and step into a fairytale. Kit Carson Park has something for everyone, from hiking trails to a fitness court, and more…but its most dazzling feature is Queen Califia’s Magical Circle. Bursting with color and imagination, this sculpture garden is often compared to Barcelona’s Park Güell. It also holds a unique distinction: it’s the only sculpture garden in the United States created by world-renowned French-born artist Niki de Saint Phalle.
8. Stay at this unique spot in the desert
Whether you’re an alien enthusiast or simply looking for the weekend escape that you’ll never stop talking about, you should check out this spot. This UFO Airbnb, known as AREA 55 is nestled right by beautiful Joshua Tree, and attracts space enthusiasts and glamping lovers from all around the world. There are only 85 such houses in the world, and this is the only one you can spend a night in. It has everything you’d expect from a modern glamping spot, like a hot shower and a beautiful outside BBQ and kitchen. No internet connection, though – perfect for disconnecting!
9. Explore unique ice cream shops this September in San Diego
Not really ready to say goodbye to summer yet? We get it. The sun’s still up temperatures are more than friendly…sounds like the perfect time for a refreshing ice cream. We have a couple of gems in San Diego, but some shops went the extra mile when it comes to unique flavors. Stella Jean’s serve a delicious Guava Cream Cheese, Salt & Straw have a Peach and Blue Cheese ice cream, while Little Fox came up with a Coconut Mango Cream with Curry and Lime Cashews flavor. Check out this page for more crazy finds!
10. Julian Grape Stomp Festa
The Julian Grape Stomp Festa returns this September in San Diego, for its 28th anniversary. Enjoy local wine tastings, live music, food vendors, and the beloved tradition of grape stomping. Tickets are $25 and include a souvenir wine glass, a tasting (21+), stomping, and entertainment, with additional pours available for purchase. Bring lawn chairs, small bills for vendors, and valid ID for tastings. It’s a lively, old-world celebration you won’t want to miss – be at Menghini Winery on September 6.
11. Spend a day in California’s oldest European settlement
California’s story began right here in Old Town San Diego. Today, the plazas of Old Town are filled with artists, markets, and lively performances. Centuries ago, this was a place where ranchers and soldiers laid the foundations of what would grow into the state’s second-largest city. Spend a day in this wonderful part of the city, and check out the preserved adobes, Whaley House, or the famous Bazaar del Mundo. Don’t forget to stop for an amazing meal at El Agave.
12. Celebrate Oktoberfest this September in San Diego
Can’t wait for October to celebrate Oktoberfest? El Cajon starts celebrating early! The first weekend of fun activities takes place on September 26, 27 and 28. This lively celebration offers authentic German food, beer, and pastries alongside folk dancing, choir performances, live music, stein-holding contests, and more. Highlights include the Opening Day Parade, keg tapping, and crowning of the 2025 Oktoberfest Queen.
13. Jonas Brothers in Chula Vista
Are you ready for some serious nostalgia? Beloved Jonas Brothers are stopping by Chula Vista on September 4, at North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre. They’re currently on their ‘Greetings From Your Hometown’ tour. Lately, the band tends to bring a surprise guest, making this show even more of a not-to-miss. Just a couple of weeks ago, Demi Lovato herself joined and made us all re-watch Camp Rock for the hundredth time. Tickets start at around $40.