Group of people running and cycling on a wooden San Diego beach boardwalk

Why You Should Visit San Diego in 2023

Planning your travels for 2023? San Diego has fun and exciting events on the calendar for every single month. If you’re trying to plan your San Diego getaway now, but aren’t sure what time of year to visit — we’ve put together a guide that highlights one of our favorite events happening each month of the year ahead. Get inspired below!

 

January

(Photo: @farmersinsopen)

San Diego Brew Fest — January  7, 2023 @ NTC Park

The 12th annual Brew Fest is finally back. Enjoy 200 beers from over 70 breweries and 10 of San Diego’s best food trucks. Don’t forget about live bands and lawn games at this beloved local event taking place in Liberty Station. 

2455 Cushing Rd, San Diego, CA 92106 (4.2 miles away)

Farmers Insurance Open — January 25-28, 2023 @ Torrey Pines Golf Course

Played annually at the Torrey Pines Golf Course in La Jolla, the Farmers Insurance Open — one of San Diego’s biggest events — returns for 2023. The breathtaking views, world-class golf, and exciting attractions surrounding the tournaments make this a can’t-miss event. 

11480 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037 (13.3 miles away)

 

February

Museum Month — February 1-28, 2023 (at various museums throughout the city)

Enjoy discounted admission to over 50 museums at world-famous Balboa Park, and several other local museums in town. Explore the Fleet Science Center, the San Diego Air & Space Museum, the USS Midway Museum, the California Surf Museum, and many more all for 50% off! Museum Month is a great way to enjoy all that makes San Diego special. 

San Diego Tết Festival — February 4-6, 2023 at Mira Mesa Community Park

This three-day celebration draws more than 25,000 people and celebrates all things Vietnamese. Enjoy performances, lion dancing, firecrackers, carnival rides, a beer garden, and delicious foods! Visit the official website of San Diego Tết Festival for more information.

​​8575 New Salem Street, San Diego, CA 92126 (13.5 miles away)

 

March 

(Photo: @the_flower_fields)

The Flower Field Season — March 1-May 8, 2023 at Carlsbad Ranch

Be mesmerized by the colorfully coordinated and spectacular rolling hills of North San Diego as they spring to life in March. Close to 50 acres of Giant Tecolote Ranunculus flowers in bloom transform the area to something you don’t want to miss. 

5704 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, CA 92008 (30 miles away)

CRSSD Festival  — March 4-5, 2023 at Waterfront Park

With headliners like Odesza, Bedouin, and Deborah De Luca, you will want to attend the CRSSD Festival, alongside San Diego Bay. The two-day electronic music festival features more than 35 performers, craft beer, mixed drinks, food, and tons of fun.

1600 Pacific Highway San Diego, CA 92101 (5.9 miles away)

 

April

(Photo: @sdrestaurantwk)

Uncorked: San Diego — April 2, 2023 at Spanish Landing Park

Indulge in over 150 wines from across the world along with ciders, seltzers, and canned cocktails. It doesn’t get any better than delicious wines, local food trucks, live entertainment, and some stunning views! 

3900 North Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92101 (6.9 miles away)

San Diego Restaurant Week — April 3-10, 2023 at various locations throughout the city

Embark on a self-guided tasting tour of the city during San Diego Restaurant Week. Featuring hundreds of restaurants in more than 30 neighborhoods, there really is something for everyone to enjoy in our well-known foodie paradise. 

 

May

(Photo: @visitoldtownsd)

Cinco de Mayo Festival — at Old Town

Head down to Old Town and celebrate Cinco de Mayo with authentic entertainment, music, food, drinks, and more. Participating Old Town restaurants will have specials featuring your favorite dishes and cocktails. 

Gator By The Bay — May 11-14, 2023 at Spanish Landing Park

Full of music, dancing, food, and fun the Gator By The Bay brings New Orleans to San Diego. Enjoy zydeco, blues cajun, rockabilly, swing, salsa, and New Orleans jazz while eating crawfish and other NOLA delicacies.

3900 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101 (6.9 miles away)

 

June

 

(Photo: @sandiegocountyfair)

San Diego County Fair — June 7-July 4, 2023 at The Del Mar Fairgrounds

Adventure awaits at the 2023 San Diego County Fair. This major annual event signifies the kickoff to summer in San Diego every year. Explore the great outdoors, indulge in s’mores, fly through the air on thrilling carnival rides, and dance the nightt away to live entertainment.

2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd, Del Mar, CA 92014 (18.9 miles away)

USA Surfing Championships — June 13-17, 2023 at Oceanside Harbour North Jetty

Watch as amazing surfers zip, glide, and soar through the waves. This event is responsible for selecting the official USA Surf Team who will compete in international competitions! 

1374 N Pacific St, Oceanside, CA 92054 (37.6 miles away)

 

July

(Photo: @sandiegopride)

Port of San Diego Big Bay Boom — July 4, 2023 (various locations) 

The annual patriotic fireworks display happens here on Independence Day every year. So grab a lawn chair, stake out your spot, and enjoy the show.  

San Diego Pride Parade — July 15, 2023 at University Ave. & Normal St. 

Show your pride at San Diego’s Pride Parade. The event attracts over 300,000 people and is one of the biggest parades in the United States. Support, honor, and celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community as you cheer on the colorful floats and parade participants, as well as a weekend-long festival full of art, and musical performances — all very near to our hotel.

Comic-Con International — July 20-23, 2023 at San Diego Convention Center

San Diego’s signature summertime event is back with traditional events along with panels, seminars, film screenings and previews, and more! Comic-Con International attracts thousands of artists, celebrities, and comic book fans and is one of the largest comic and pop culture events in the country. 

111 W Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101 (6.6 miles away)

 

August

(Photo: @delmarracing)

Del Mar Racing Season — July 21-September 10, 2023 at Del Mar Racetrack

Don your best, and place your bets! The Del Mar Racing season starts in July and is sure to be as thrilling and exciting as ever. Enjoy the races with your friends and family.

2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd, Del Mar, CA 92014 (19.3 miles away)

 

September

(Photo: @sdbayfair)

San Diego Bayfair — September 15-17, 2023 at Mission Bay

This family-friendly event features the world’s fastest boats, a bbq competition, a beach party, and more! Watch in awe as these boats zip by at speeds that seem unfathomable. 

1404 Vacation Rd‎, San Diego, CA 92109 (5.4 miles away)

 

October

 

(Photo: @oboktoberfest)

Kids Free San Diego — October 1-31, 2023 at various locations throughout the city

San Diego is the perfect getaway for families during October. Not only is the weather great, but kids stay, eat, and play for free! With almost 100 deals on meals, attractions, activities, and more, we make it easy to enjoy San Diego.

Ocean Beach Oktoberfest — October 13-14, 2023 at the foot of Ocean Beach Pier

Get ready for the wildest Oktoberfest in San Diego! The Ocean Beach Oktoberfest includes family-friendly and adults-only activities. Of course there’s no shortage of classic German beer, delicious local craft brews, wine, and spirits. Enjoy live music, good food, and fun times! 

5099 Newport Avenue, San Diego, CA 92107  (5.5 miles away)

Other October Events: 

Pacific Beachfest — October 1, 2023 @ Pacific Beach Boardwalk

Taste of North Park — October 8, 2023 @ various locations throughout North Park

San Diego International Film Festival — October 18-22, 2023 @ various locations  

 

November

(Photo: @sdbayfest)

San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival — November 8-12, 2023 at Embarcadero Marina Park North

Your tastebuds will thank you for attending the San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival. Enjoy dozens of events, too many domestic and international wineries to count, craft beer and spirits, and delicious food courtesy of culinary legends and nationally acclaimed chefs. 

400 Kettner Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92101 (7 miles away)

Del Mar Racing Season — November 10-December 3, 2023 at Del Mar Racetrack

If you weren’t able to catch the summer racing season, now’s your chance! Enjoy elite Thoroughbred racing and musical performances. 

2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd, Del Mar, CA 92014 (19.3 miles away)

 

December

 

(Photo: @sdparadeoflights)

San Diego Bay Parade of Lights — December 11 & 18, 2023 at various spots along the Bay

Get in the festive mood at the San Diego Bay Parade of Lights. Watch with wonder and cheer as boats decked out in lights and holiday décor cruise through the bay. Each year has a different theme sure to inspire some amazing decorations. 

Holiday Market at Petco Park — TBD at Petco Park

Get some truly unique gifts for everyone on your list at the Holiday Market at Petco Park. Enjoy local artisans, stunning light displays, seasonal snacks and drinks, and even catch up with Santa!  

100 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101 (8.1 miles away)

 

So…what are you waiting for?! With tons of fun events happening year-round in San Diego, start planning your getaway now. Stay at Days Inn San Diego Hotel Circle for a location close to all the action with unbeatable offers. Book your stay today!