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10 San Diego Nonprofit Events to Attend This September

Our picks for this month’s can’t-miss charity fundraisers and galas
Courtesy of MCASD

Cardiff Greek Festival

September 7–8

Cardiff-by-the-Sea looks to Europe on September 7-8, 2024, with the Cardiff Greek Festival. This family-friendly event celebrates Greek culture through food, music, and dance, with proceeds supporting local Greek cultural organizations.

Promises2Kids Dream On Concert Gala

September 9

Presented by Kevin & Raegan Prior, philanthropist and Promises2Kids Board Member emeritus Joan Waitt will host the 2024 Promises2Kids Dream On Concert gala at her home in La Jolla. This star-studded event benefits foster children and features performances, gourmet dining, and live auctions. All proceeds support Promises2Kids programs.

FilmOut San Diego LGBT Film Festival

September 12–15

From September 12-15, 2024, multiple venues in San Diego will host the FilmOut San Diego LGBT Film Festival, one of Southern California’s longest-running LGBTQ film festivals. The event showcases films highlighting LGBTQ stories, with proceeds supporting local LGBTQ organizations.

Girl Scouts San Diego Urban Campout

September 13

The Girl Scouts San Diego Campus in Balboa Park will host the Urban Campout on September 13, 2024. This unique fundraising event features outdoor-themed activities, gourmet dining, and live entertainment. Proceeds support Girl Scouts San Diego’s programs that empower young girls through leadership and outdoor education.

Gala at the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego

September 14

The Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego in La Jolla will hold its annual gala on September 14, 2024. This vibrant evening features craft cocktails and a seaside dinner curated by renowned Chef Tim Kolanko, offering an unforgettable experience that supports the museum’s mission while enjoying stunning coastal views.

EcoLife Conservation Gala

September 14

On September 14, 2024, the LaFayette Hotel in San Diego will host the EcoLife Conservation Gala. This event supports EcoLife’s mission of environmental sustainability while also helping humanity through innovative cooking stoves and aquaponics. It features fine dining, live entertainment, and opportunities to contribute to initiatives that protect wildlife, natural resources, and vulnerable communities.

OMBAC Classic Longboard Surfing Contest

September 21

Pacific Beach will host the OMBAC Classic Longboard Surfing Contest at Crystal Pier on September 21, 2024. This nostalgic competition, featuring vintage surfboards, celebrates San Diego’s surfing culture and supports The Prevent Drowning Foundation of San Diego.

Pacific Islander Festival

September 21-22

On September 21-22, 2024, Ski Beach in Mission Bay will host the Pacific Islander Festival, celebrating the rich traditions and cultures of the Pacific Islands. The event features music, dance, and food, with proceeds supporting local Pacific Islander community programs.

Hope Lives Here Charity Golf Classic

September 26

On September 26, 2024, the Grand Golf Club in Del Mar will host the Hope Lives Here Charity Golf Classic. Organized by Father Joe’s Villages, this luxurious golf event supports veterans experiencing homelessness. The day includes tournament play, a gourmet lunch, and an awards reception, with all proceeds going towards critical services provided by Father Joe’s Villages.

La Jolla Concours d’Elegance

September 28–29

La Jolla Cove will set the stage for the La Jolla Concours d’Elegance on September 28-29, 2024. This event, featuring vintage cars and chic VIP receptions, showcases exquisite automotive design, and proceeds benefit local charities.

By Jackie Bryant

Jackie is San Diego Magazine's content strategist. Prior to that, she was its managing editor. Before her SDM career, she was a long-time freelance journalist covering cannabis, food/restaurants, travel, labor, wine, spirits, arts & culture, design, and other topics. Her work has been selected twice for Best American Travel Writing, and she has won a variety of national and local awards for her writing and reporting.

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