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Guides JANUARY 15, 2013

We’re Gonna Party Like It’s 1995!

A punk-rock teen arrives at the concert 20 years too late

We’re Gonna Party Like It’s 1995!
We’re Gonna Party Like It’s 1995!

Slightly Stoopid

Slightly Stoopid at the 91X Birthday Bash | Photo by IrieLive.com

I went to Point Loma High School with the guys from Slightly Stoopid. I used to put on vintage Levi’s, tie a flannel around my waist, and go to their shows at SOMA.

Remember SOMA? Pre-Sports Arena? Back when it was in Linda Vista?

That space is now a doggie daycare. Sigh… how times have changed.

On Saturday I was randomly invited to the 91X 30th Birthday Bash at the House of Blues, featuring Buck-O-Nine, Sprung Monkey, and P.O.D., with Slightly Stoopid headlining.

It was quite an event. Suge Knight was there. Flava Flav was there. Some comedian that I’ve never heard of—but the crowd went wild for—was there. I suddenly felt cooler just for being in the building.

In a wave of nostalgia, I was transported back to my days at SOMA and the YMCA, where we used to stalk the guys from Blink, collect bumper stickers from cool bands, and blast Dance Hall Crashers in my old Mazda Protégé.

Ah… high school.

Then came the reality check.

There’s nothing like wearing $400 pony hair pumps, while dancing in a puddle of spilled Coors Light, to make you think I’m too old for this.

We’re Gonna Party Like It’s 1995!

P.O.D.

During P.O.D’s set, the lead singer’s little bitty of a son came out and assisted on the drums. The kid was cute. He wore neon headphones to protect his ears from the noise. He had mini dreads. And he flung the beach balls that landed on stage back into the audience. Like I said, cute.

But when your favorite part of a punk concert is a 5-year-old with a drumstick in his hand, you know you’re OLD. I’m pretty sure the mosh pit of youngsters dancing with their middle fingers in the air could have cared less about the kid.

Full disclosure: I am still hungover. Was it the Coors Light or those two pre-concert glasses of chardonnay on ice? Tough call. And since when did hangovers start lasting three days?

Also, I may have permanently damaged my hearing. No, seriously. I had to crank up the volume when I watched the Bachelor last night—much to the annoyance of everyone else around me.

But it was worth it, and very exciting to see Slightly Stoopid play after all these years. Local boys made good. I had such a crush on Miles Doughty when I was in high school. And he was just like I remembered. To him and the band, I say, “Bravo! Way to represent!”

Oh, and happy birthday 91X!

Now I’d like to go put on my sweatpants, Google hearing loss, and pour my thirty-something self a glass of chardonnay on ice.

Amen.

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Arts & Culture JULY 30, 2025

The Best of San Diego 2025: Arts & Culture

San Diego’s cultural scene is booming—here's the innovative art, live music, iconic landmarks, and local changemakers shaping the city this year

The Best of San Diego 2025: Arts & Culture
Photo Credit: Liv Shaw

Best Semicentennial

San Diego Foundation

The San Diego Foundation (SDF) celebrated its 50th anniversary with proclamations from 15 cities and the County of San Diego, declaring May 28 as San Diego Foundation Day and launching a new campaign. It was also named Nonprofit of the Year by State Senator Akilah Weber Pierson. To date, SDF has granted over $1.8 billion to nonprofits across the region—its new Fifty & Forward campaign aims to raise $1 billion and award $500 million towards initiatives targeting education, climate resilience, and family well-being over the next decade.

San Diego Magazine's Best San Diego Arts & Culture 2025 featuring Future is Color Studio DJ set
Courtesy of Future is Color

Best Chance to Discover Your New Favorite Album

Future is Color Studio & Cafe

Tucked in the heart of Barrio Logan, Future is Color Studio & Cafe is cultivating community through clothing, conversation, coffee, and music. Focused on collective liberation, the space explores cultural tensions through dialogue; creative workshops; and Studio Sessions, weekly events like jazz nights, DJ sets, and album listenings. Swing by Fridays and Saturdays to browse the latest collection, dig into the reference library, or vibe in the Hi-Fi Listening Space. (The best part? It’s free.) Tuesdays offer intimate, ticketed listening sessions, and you can visit on Sundays with a reservation.

Best Botanical Grow-up

Botanical Building

One of Balboa Park’s most photogenic gems got a serious makeover. The iconic Botanical Building, originally built in 1915 for the Panama-California Exposition, had weathered decades of wear and termite damage until a glamorous $28 million, 32-month renovation brought it back to life. Phase one restored its signature redwood lathework and added sleek new irrigation systems, making the once overgrown space shine. Phase two is underway, with new gardens set to bloom and complete the fairytale-worthy transformation.

San Diego Magazine's Best San Diego Arts & Culture 2025 featuring Sessions by the Bay, San Diego's first license cannabis lounge
Courtesy of OpenTable

Best Lounge to Light Up In

Sessions by the Bay

Sessions by the Bay opened this year as San Diego County’s first licensed cannabis lounge. The National City spot features a large dispensary downstairs and a sleek second-floor lounge serving real-deal restaurant food and non-alcoholic drinks that you can dose yourself. Guests are actively consuming cannabis—smoking, vaping, dabbing, sipping—in a space that feels more boutique hotel lobby than head shop. It’s polished, thoughtful, designed for lingering. Finally, San Diego has a legal, regulated, public place to smoke weed.

Best Gamer Gathering

TwitchCon

You’ve heard of Comic-Con, but does the name TwitchCon ring any bells? How about Ninja, Ludwig, or Pokimane? Even if those aren’t your personal lexicon, every day, millions of people tune in to watch these streamers share video gameplay, life updates, and real-time reactions to the internet’s biggest trends on the platform Twitch. Quickly becoming one of the San Diego Convention Center’s largest annual events, TwitchCon brought together nearly 22,800 fans and creators this past year. With its 10-year anniversary on the horizon and a return slated for October, TwitchCon may have finally found its forever home in America’s Finest City.

San Diego Magazine's Best San Diego Arts & Culture 2025 featuring the newly renovated Jacobs Music Center
Photo Credit: Richard Barnes

Best Tune-Up

Jacobs Music Center

After a $125 million, four-year transformation, the historic Jacobs Music Center struck a new chord this last year. Once a 1929 movie palace, the venue is now an ornate, state-of-the-art concert hall with upgraded acoustics (including a design-forward tunable canopy), lush new seating, and a choral terrace that puts some lucky audience members right onstage. It’s an acoustically brilliant home for the musical gifts of the SD Symphony. Goodbye, old HVAC system; hello, musicians who can actually hear themselves play.

Interior of the Jacobs Music Center following a $125M renovation

Best Opportunity to Live the High Life

1011 Union Street

Noticed something new in downtown’s skyline? A $511 million, 37-story tower at 1011 Union Street is the city’s first true mixed-use skyscraper. Developed by Holland Partner Group, the building combines office spaces, trendy retail, and luxury apartments and tops ’em with a rooftop pool and deck. This vertical neighborhood aims to create a more dynamic and walkable community, elevating San Diego’s lifestyle to new heights.

San Diego Magazine's Best San Diego Arts & Culture 2025 featuring new San Diego Zoo Sumatrian tiger cub Barong
Courtesy of San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance

Best Conservation Wins

The San Diego Zoo, a pioneer in wildlife research and protection for nearly a century, has been up to some seriously exciting things lately, from innovative conservation efforts to welcoming new furry friends.

The Return of the Giant Pandas

Giant pandas are finally back at the San Diego Zoo. Yun Chuan and Xin Bao are the first two pandas to enter the US in 21 years. Go visit these adorable, fuzzy legends at the new Panda Ridge habitat.

The 50th Anniversary of the Frozen Zoo

Arts & Culture MAY 2, 2025

10 Must-See Artists at San Diego’s Wonderfront Music Festival 2025

Back for its fourth year, the festival will showcase more than 50 artists across seven stages from May 16–18

10 Must-See Artists at San Diego’s Wonderfront Music Festival 2025
Photo Credit: @ariannakharizz

The fourth annual Wonderfront Festival returns to San Diego’s Embarcadero Marina from May 16–18 this year. Since launching in 2019, the festival has grown steadily—bringing bigger names, wider audiences, and more reasons for San Diego music lovers to celebrate.

Its inaugural year featured Slightly Stoopid, MGMT, and Ben Harper as headliners, while this year’s top ticket names include Peggy Gou and Daniel Caesar on Friday; Anderson Paak & The Free Nationals and Foster the People on Saturday; and Khruangbin, Jason Mraz, and Gary Clark Jr. closing out Sunday night.

But beyond the mainstream acts, this year’s Wonderfront Festival also delivers a stacked undercard of emerging talent. To help you map out your plans for the weekend and ensure you don’t miss some of the lesser-known artists, too, we put together a list of 10 bands you can’t miss this year.

San Diego 2025 Wonderfront Festival lineup artist Khruangbin
Courtesy of Khruangbin

Khruangbin

Sunday @ 8:35 p.m. | Events.com Stage

Must Listen Track: Maria También

Where are the lyrics?” “What’s with the wigs?” You’ll likely ask yourself these questions while listening to Khruangbin. Khruangbin—which means “airplane” in Thai—gained recognition in 2022 with their EP featuring Leon Bridges (which does have lyrics, though much of their music does not). They were also recently featured in the third season of The White Lotus

But even if you’ve never heard of them before, avid fans know that nearly a decade after their debut and six subsequent albums they’re finally getting the recognition they deserve. The Grammys, fashionably late as always, finally nominated the group for “Best New Artist” last year. They might just be this generation’s Grateful Dead, with their sprawling, instrumental sets and international influences. Guitarist Mark Speer’s dreamy guitar takes center stage, supported by bassist Laura Lee and drummer Donald Johnson Jr., creating a lush, meditative groove that’s irresistible. 

San Diego 2025 Wonderfront Festival lineup artist Magdalena Bay
Courtesy of Magdalena Bay

Magdalena Bay

Saturday @ 3:20 p.m. | Cypress Ascendant Stage

Must Listen Track: Killshot

If you’re into Charli XCX and FKA Twigs, check out Magdalena Bay, an LA-based indie pop band making waves. Comprised of Mica Tenenbaum and Matthew Lewin, the duo began creating music together in high school, crafting mixtapes and eventually full-length albums with a sound and aesthetic that nods to early internet culture. 

Their sophomore album, Imaginal Disk, blends futuristic pop and electronic dance music with touches of funk. The album cover—a CD being inserted into Tenenbaum’s forehead—perfectly captures the 2000s influence. Their sound is futuristic and pulsing, yet deeply nostalgic. The duo’s music videos extend this vibe with a DIY aesthetic—not as chaotic as 100 Gecs, but with a charming green screen visual that pairs with their Y2K electronica. If they’re not already on your radar, they will be soon.

San Diego 2025 Wonderfront Festival lineup artist Daniel Caesar
Courtesy of Daniel Caesar

Daniel Caesar

Friday @ 7:30 p.m. | Cypress Ascendant Stage

Must Listen Track: Best Part

Hailing from Toronto, Canada, Daniel Caesar is one of R&B’s hottest artists today. With an upbringing shaped by the gospel music at his father’s church, Caesar broke into the mainstream with his 2017 debut album Freudian, earning widespread acclaim and Grammy nominations. Caesar’s blend of gospel with modern ballads produces music that feels both timeless and contemporary. While rap and pop dominate the mainstream currently, it seems that R&B may be experiencing a comeback thanks to artists like Caesar. 

San Diego 2025 Wonderfront Festival lineup artist Orion Sun
Courtesy of Orion Sun

Orion Sun

Saturday @ 5:05 p.m. | Hazy Stage

Must Listen Track: Antidote

If you like SZA and Frank Ocean, you’ll probably like Orion Sun, the moniker of Tiffany Majette. Her music bridges R&B and indie rock with a sound rooted in personal struggle and resilience. After being kicked out for coming out to her parents, she turned to music, drawing influence from Nina Simone and Billie Holiday, whose struggles enriched their art. Her 2013 debut track “Voicemail” gained traction on YouTube, SoundCloud, and Bandcamp, and her 2020 album A Collection of Fleeting Moments and Daydreams introduced her soulful lyricism to a wider audience. In 2023, she opened for Daniel Caesar’s Superpowers tour and followed up with a self-titled album in 2024 that further fuses indie rock with her signature lo-fi beats.

San Diego 2025 Wonderfront Festival lineup artist Peggy Gou
Courtesy of XL Recordings

Peggy Gou

Friday @ 8:40 p.m. | Events.com Stage

Must Listen Track: (It Goes Like) Nanana

For electronic music fans, Peggy Gou is a must-see. The South Korean DJ and producer has been gaining the attention of EDM fans worldwide, first with mixtapes and remixes before putting out her 2024 studio debut album I Hear You. Her music channels ’90s nightclub vibes—glowsticks, zebra prints, high-BPM loops—while resonating with millions worldwide and has massive hits including  “(It Goes Like) Nanana” which has over 600 million streams.

Cole Novak

About Cole Novak

Cole Novak is an award-winning writer with a passion for highlighting local figures, small businesses, and nonprofits. Born and raised in San Diego, Cole is passionate about photography, surfing, art, the local food scene, and the great outdoors.

Arts & Culture APRIL 25, 2025

Things to Do in San Diego This Month: May 2025

Feast at Brunch Bash, dance at Gator by the Bay, and rock out at Outlaw Fest this month

Things to Do in San Diego This Month: May 2025
Photo Credit: @photomatt72

May in San Diego means longer days, blooming flowers, and a calendar full of can’t-miss events. This month, locals can sip bottomless mimosas at San Diego Magazine’s Brunch Bash or crack crawfish shells at Gator by the Bay. Music lovers can two-step their way through The Outlaw Festival or vibe with R&B trio Flo, while beachgoers flock to Fiesta Del Sol or the annual Mission Beach Over-the-Line tournament. For fans of the arts, there’s a packed lineup of theater productions and exhibits—including one celebrating the surprisingly adorable armadillo. So grab your tickets, gather your crew, and explore all the best things to do in San Diego this May.

Food & Drink | Concerts & Festivals | Theater & Art Exhibits | More Fun Things to Do

Things to do in San Diego this month, May 2025 featuring San Diego Magazine's Brunch Bash at the Omni La Costa
Courtesy of Cambria Fischer Photography

Food & Drink Events in San Diego This May

San Diego Magazine’s 2025 Brunch Bash

May 10

San Diego Magazine presents our annual Brunch Bash, a daytime feast full of unlimited bites, mimosas, and sweet desserts from local restaurants and vendors at Omni La Costa Resort & Spa.

Gator by the Bay

May 8–11

Gator by the Bay, a spectacle of the sounds and eats—like beignets, gumbo, and 10,000 pounds of crawfish—that define Louisiana’s Cajun and Creole culture, brings the bayou to Spanish Landing Park on Harbor Island.

Things to do in San Diego this month, May 2025 featuring Flo concert at the North Park Observatory
Photo Credit: Tom Emmerson

Concerts & Festivals in San Diego This May

Flo at the North Park Observatory

May 11

Fresh off the late 2024 release of their debut album Access All Areas, British R&B girl group Flo stops by the Observatory North Park.

Interior rendering of new listening bar in Little Italy, San Diego called Kiku Room

The Outlaw Music Festival at North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre

May 15

The Outlaw Music Festival will celebrate giants of Americana sound—including Billy Strings, Bob Dylan, and Willie Nelson—at the North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre in Chula Vista.

Louis at the Balboa Theatre

May 18

At the Balboa Theatre, an 11-piece jazz ensemble will perform an immersive score to soundtrack Louis, a silent film based on the life of legendary trumpeter Louis Armstrong.

Fiesta Del Sol at Fletcher Cove Park

May 31 – June 1

Hit the beach for Fiesta Del Sol, returning for a sunny weekend at Fletcher Cove Park in Solana Beach. Enjoy free entry, more than 200 vendors, and live music from several local bands.

Things to do in San Diego this month, May 2025 featuring A Beautiful Noise at the Civic Theatre
Photo Credit: Jeremy Daniel

Theater & Art Exhibits in San Diego This May

Grease at the Moonlight Ampitheatre

April 30 – May 17

Moonlight Stage Productions in Vista kicks off its summer musical season with ’50s nostalgia favorite Grease, a tale of unlikely high school romance that boasts an irresistibly classic soundtrack.

Interior of San Diego miniatures shop Ms. Peggie's Place

The Prom at the San Diego Music Theatre

May 2 – June 1

The San Diego Musical Theatre production of the musical comedy The Prom arrives in Kearny Mesa right in time for “promposal” season with a funny and moving show of support for LGBTQ students.

Sleeping Beauty at CCA Escondido and Balboa Theatre

May 9 – 11

See the State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine’s dreamy adaptation of Sleeping Beauty, on stage for two nights at the California Center for the Arts, Escondido followed by a Sunday matinee at the Balboa Theatre.

Tuck and Roll: The Art of Armadillos at the Mingei

May 24 – January 11, 2026

The Mingei International Museum draws from its collection to highlight armadillos in all their leather- shelled, spiny-tailed glory with Tuck and Roll: The Art of Armadillos.

A Beautiful Noise at the Civic Theatre

May 27 – June 1

“Sweet Caroline” singer Neil Diamond’s journey from Brooklyn beginnings to musical superstardom unfolds throughout A Beautiful Noise, coming to the Civic Theatre in downtown.

Things to do in San Diego this month, May 2025 featuring the Over the Line Beer Fest & Tournament at the Old Mission Beach Athletic Club
Courtesy of the Old Mission Beach Athletic Club

More Fun Things to Do in San Diego This May

The Avant Garde Ball at MCASD

May 3

Embrace the innovative and unconventional in the worlds of art, music, and fashion at The Avant Garde Ball, featuring an open bar, live music, and art installations at the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego in La Jolla.

The Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego inaugural Avant Garde Ball fundraiser in 2025

Over the Line Beer Fest & Tournament at the Old Mission Beach Athletic Club

May 17

Old Mission Beach Athletic Club celebrates San Diego’s signature sport with local breweries, food trucks, and a community showdown at its Over the Line Beer Fest & Tournament.

Ryan Hardison is a freelance arts and entertainment writer and recent graduate of San Diego State. When he's not staring at his laptop, he's likely eating an adobada burrito or getting sunburnt at the beach.

Studio S JUNE 8, 2026

Seven Restaurants, One Rising Star

Yes, Chef! winner Emily Brubaker leads the robust culinary program at Omni La Costa Resort & Spa

Seven Restaurants, One Rising Star
Courtesy of Omni La Costa

For Executive Chef Emily Brubaker, Omni La Costa Resort & Spa feels like home. She grew up just a mile-and-a-half away from the 400-acre property and fondly recalls walking the golf course perimeter as a kid. Though her ambitions led her away from San Diego for nearly two decades in which she honed her craft in some of the highest of high-profile Las Vegas restaurants—including triple Michelin-starred Joël Robuchon at MGM Grand—they ultimately brought her back to North County.

Courtesy of Omni La Costa

Today, the classically French-trained chef, who’s fresh off a victory on NBC’s Yes, Chef!, judged by Martha Stewart and José Andrés, oversees Omni La Costa Resort & Spa’s seven distinct dining concepts. Her goal is to elevate the resort’s culinary program with her creative, hyperlocal ingredient-driven approach while maintaining the Spanish- inspired flavors and fresh California coastal cuisine that are the bedrock of its culinary identity.

“The San Diego food scene is really growing, and in North County alone, it’s really exploded in the last five years,” Brubaker says. “There are Michelin stars, beautiful tasting menus, craft bakers, and all this food—when I was growing up in La Costa, it was fish tacos. Now there are really cool things popping up, and I’m so happy to be here to see where it’s going to go.”

Brubaker gives chefs de cuisine at each individual restaurant autonomy, however, her influence is evident across the resort.

For example, lobby restaurant Bar Traza serves as Omni La Costa’s culinary centerpiece and features bold Spanish flavors in a lively, social atmosphere. Brubaker overhauled the menu to be more consistent and centered on casual bites with that signature vibe. Think smoky paprika, vibrant citrus, and Spanish meats and cheeses.

At VUE, the focus is on seasonal offerings, California coastal cuisine, and Baja-inspired dishes. She and Chef de Cuisine Cameron Dixon change the menu biannually, which heading into summer, will highlight farm-fresh produce and hyperlocal ingredients—the resort even has its own herb garden and honeybee hives.

Courtesy of Omni La Costa

Poolside dining options are leaning into the country’s 250th this summer with a selection of classic American dishes with an Omni La Costa twist. And Bob’s Steak & Chop House (Brubaker is a trained butcher) offers a classic steakhouse experience with elevated service.

The chef and company also plan menus for special events at the resort where her creativity can really shine. For an upcoming National Ski Association dinner, the banquet hall will be transformed into an Alpine-themed winter wonderland complete with a snow machine, savory sausages, and melty, decadent raclette. A recent dinner was built around the Carlsbad Flower Fields and each course was matched to a color of ranunculus (Did you know pink dragonfruit are grown in North County? You do now.).

“It’s my zen to be in the kitchen playing with food,” Brubaker says.

Omni La Costa’s culinary program is a key part of the resort experience. And with Brubaker’s leadership, it’s becoming a draw for visitors and locals alike.

“These aren’t just hotel restaurants, these are restaurants that you should go to. They’re destinations, and I’m really hoping for the future that’s where we’re going,” Brubaker says.

Courtesy of Omni La Costa

Brubaker is also channeling her experience on Yes, Chef! into the culture at Omni La Costa—more emphasis on teamwork and collaboration, empowering her staff to share constructive critiques, and embracing different perspectives. Alongside her leadership role, Brubaker has become an advocate for mental health in the hospitality industry, serving as chief ambassador for the Burnt Chef Project and serves on the Board of Advisors for the Apex Culinary Program, where she mentors and develops future talent.

For more on Omni La Costa Resort & Spa and its dining program, please visit omnihotels.com/hotels/san-diego-la-costa.

Partner Content
Food & Drink MARCH 3, 2025

Where to Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in San Diego, 2025

From corned beef hash and green hops to yacht parties, shamrock runs, and family-friendly festivals, here’s how to spend St. Paddy’s Day this year

Where to Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in San Diego, 2025
Photo Credit: Eric Scire

Ahhh, St. Patrick’s Day, the day many of us use as an excuse to drink a green lager, claim any ounce of Irish heritage found in our 23andMe report, and wear all your favorite green clothing at once. From corned beef hash and green hops to yacht parties, shamrock runs, and family-friendly festivals, there is something for everyone to celebrate St. Paddy’s Day this year. If you’re looking for an excuse to wear that “Kiss Me I’m Irish” t-shirt, now’s your time to shine.

San Diego 43rd Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival
Courtesy of Patch

St. Patrick’s Day Events in San Diego

The 43rd Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival

March 15

On Saturday, March 15 at 10:30 a.m. this family-friendly parade will start on Fifth Avenue and Laurel Street for its 43rd year in San Diego. The parade is free and open to all and features high school marching bands, police and fire department units, dancing groups and more. Throughout the day, enjoy more fun in Balboa Park featuring an all-ages festival from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Guests will enjoy food booths, live performances and craft vendors. Admission into the festival is $10 for adults 21 years and older and free for anyone under 21 and active duty military with I.D.

8878 Clairemont Mesa Blvd, Kearny Mesa

Things to do in San Diego this month, March 2025 featuring the ShamROCK festival in the Gaslamp Quarter downtown

7th Annual San Diego Leprechaun Run

March 15

Lace up your running shoes and join San Diego Running Co. on Saturday, March 15 for their 7th Annual San Diego Leprechaun Run 5K & Kids 1K. Participants will run through downtown Pacific Beach and receive a complimentary Leprechaun Run t-shirt, medal upon finishing, photo and a complimentary drink at the finish. The Leprechaun Run 5K will begin at 9 a.m. and the Kids 1K Run will begin at 10:30 a.m. Registration for the Leprechaun Run 5K is $59 and $35 for the Kids 1K Run.

Pacific Beach

Lamb's Player Theatre 2025 Lamb's St. Patrick's Day Cabaret show on March 16 & 17
Courtesy of Lamb’s Player Theatre

Lamb’s St. Patrick’s Cabaret Show

March 16-17

For a night of Irish tunes, head to Lamb’s annual St Patrick’s Day Cabaret. Attendees can enjoy a night at the Lamb’s Player Theatre complete with 100 minutes of uninterrupted Irish music. The annual St. Patrick’s Day concert will be on Sunday, March 16 and Monday, March 17 and begins at 7 p.m.

Leprechauns & Live Music at Seaport Village

March 16

Show off your best green garb at Seaport Village’s Leprechauns & Live Music on Sunday, March 16. Here, you can enjoy a bite to eat at a restaurant in the west courtyard, listen to some live music, and hunt for leprechauns. The event runs from 12 p.m. – 3 p.m.

Irish Music at Conrad Preby’s Performing Arts Center

March 16-17

Looking to hear some authentic Irish music this St. Patty’s Day? Check out the Irish band Goitse. Snag tickets to watch this quintet of Irish musicians play traditional tunes that will surely have you doing a jig. Goitse will be performing at the Conrad Preby’s Performing Arts Center Sunday, March 16 from 5 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. and Monday, March 17, 5:30 p.m. – 8 p.m. 

St. Patrick’s Day at the Fleet Science Center

March 15

Looking for a more kid-centric option for St Patrick’s Day, you’re in luck! At the Junior Science Club, kids can work a little science magic and learn how to change the color of cabbage or experiment with potatoes. Head to the Fleet Science Center on March 15 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Gaslamp St. Patrick's Day Music & Beer Festival in downtown, San Diego
Courtesy of the Gaslamp Foundation

St. Patrick’s Day Parties & Pub Crawls in San Diego

2025 Irish 4 A Day Pub Crawl

March 14 & 15

St. Patrick’s Day will be taking over the historic Gaslamp Quarter for a weekend-long Irish 4 A Day celebration. The festivities will take place across various bars and restaurants downtown on March 14 and March 15. Tickets to this annual event include admission to more than 20 bars in the area, live music, drink and dining deals, hotel deals, and perks from respective bars. Tickets start at $35 a day on Friday and $39 a day on Saturday. 

628 5th Ave. San Diego, Gaslamp Quarter

29th Annual ShamROCK

March 15 

St. Paddy’s Day Music and Beer Festival, best known as ShamROCK, is returning to San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter for the 29th year. The festival will be on Saturday, March 15 from 2-8 p.m. and will feature live performances from the nation’s top Irish and Celtic Rock bands, Irish dances and tribute performances. General admission tickets start at $50 for adults and go up in price on March 2. Free admission is offered for children under 4 and general admission tickets for ages 5-17 start at $30.

Gaslamp Quarter

Kiss Me, I’m Irish: San Diego St. Patrick’s Day Bar Crawl

March 15 & 17

The Kiss Me, I’m Irish bar crawl will take place this year in Pacific Beach on Saturday March 15 and Monday March 17. Participating bars include: Flamingo Deck, Baja Beach Cafe, The Beverly Beach Garden, Moonshine Beach, The Sandbox, Thrusters Lounge, Truckstop, and Woodstock’s Pizza Pacific Beach. General admission each day is $25 and is open to anyone ages 21 and older.

721 Grand Ave. San Diego, CA 92109

Guides FEBRUARY 14, 2025 (Updated Jun 24, 2024)

The Best Local Guitar Shops in San Diego

11 spots across the county where you can shop for your new favorite axe and all the accessories to keep shredding

The Best Local Guitar Shops in San Diego
Courtesy of Music Mart

A plethora of bands call San Diego home, plucking out the diverse soundtrack to our laidback lifestyle. But where do all of our super sick guitarists go to obtain their axes—and to fix them up after those especially rowdy gigs? Across the county, San Diego guitar shops serve seasoned shredders and newbie musicians alike with instruments and accessories that help drive the city’s joyful noise. Here are 11 of the best.

A pink guitar from San Diego guitar shop, Music Mart in Solana Beach

Music Mart

Long gone are the days of trying out an instrument that caught your eye… only to be met with a scoff of disdain from a 20-year-old Guitar Center employee. North County’s Music Mart understands that a test drive is critical to finding your six-stringed soulmate and encourages shoppers to jam accordingly.

Address: 122 South Solana Hills Drive, Solana Beach
Hours: 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Monday–Saturday; 12p.m.–5 p.m. Sunday.

Collection of guitars from music shop Imperial Vintage Guitars in Kearny Mesa
Courtesy of Imperial Vintage Guitars

Imperial Vintage Guitars

If your dad’s midlife crisis involved the purchase of some old guitar with a cracked neck that he insists he’ll learn to play, take him to this spot to finally get it repaired. Kearny Mesa’s Imperial Vintage Guitars specializes in second hand axes, so the store maintains its carefully curated instruments with a little more TLC than your average curio shop would.

Address: 7878 Clairemont Mesa Boulevard, Suite 5, Kearny Mesa
Hours: 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday; Wednesday by appointment only; Closed Sunday.

San Diego Master luthier Brandon Madrid building an acoustic guitar in his workshop in Allied Gardens
Antique guitar from San Diego music shop Moze Guitars in La Mesa
Courtesy of Moze Guitars

Moze Guitars

Have you ever considered starting a Hank Williams cover band but then didn’t take the plunge because you had no idea where to buy a steel guitar or banjo? Just me? Either way, Moze Guitars in La Mesa offers a niche selection of lap steel, mandolins, banjos, and of course, gorgeous guitars. Throw in a harmonica and your extra starched blue jeans, and you’re set.

Address: 8415 La Mesa Boulevard, Suite 1, La Mesa
Hours: 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Monday–Friday; 10:30 a.m.–5 p.m. Saturday; closed Sunday.

Interior of San Diego music shop Mark's Guitar Exchange in the Midway District
Courtesy of Mark’s Guitar Exchange

Mark’s Guitar Exchange

Mark’s Guitar Exchange offers perhaps the most expansive selection in the city. Conveniently, their superstore-sized selection on Midway Drive is a 10-minute walk away from teen rock haven SOMA. Go straight from the pit to the store to blow your paycheck on your new favorite guitar.

Address: 3233 Midway Drive, Midway | 945 Otay Lakes Road Unit G, Chula Vista
Hours: Midway District – 9 a.m.–6 p.m. Monday–Friday; 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Saturday; 12p.m.–5 p.m. Sunday.
Chula Vista – 12 p.m.–8 p.m. Monday–Friday; 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Saturday; 12p.m.–5 p.m. Sunday.

Red electric guitar from San Diego guitar shop Pitbull Audio in National City
Courtesy of Pitbull Audio

Pitbull Audio

Guitars are cool and all, but have you ever wanted to add an obscene number of pedals to your stage just to give yourself a reason to explain where shoegaze got its name from? Pitbull Audio in National City carries not only a multitude of guitars, but also specific audio accessories to give your music the extra oomph you need to craft your totally-not-Slowdive-inspired sound. 

Address: 300 West 28th Street, Suite 101, National City
Hours: 10 a.m.–7 p.m. Monday–Friday; 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Saturday; 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Sunday.

Interior of San Diego guitar shop Harper's Music Store in Chula Vista
Courtesy of Harper’s Music Store

Harper’s Music Store

Recommended by San Diego’s new generation grindcore and metalcore scene, Harper’s Music Store has remained a South Bay institution since 1962. A rent-to-own system starting at $19 makes all the offered instruments that much more accessible to your average high school garage band scraping together their allowance to pay for equipment.

Address: 627 H St. #B, Chula Vista
Hours: 10 a.m.–7 p.m. Monday–Friday; 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

Guitar repair at San Diego music shop Music Store Live in National City
Courtesy of Music Store Live

Music Store Live 

Have you ever needed a guitar delivered straight to your house? Music Store Live is the place for that. Although it has an in-person location in National City, the guitar shop is praised online for its free shipping and 30-day returns. Guitars, pianos, basses, and drums can all be delivered right to your doorstep. 

Address: 300 W 28th St Ste #102, National City 
Hours: 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Monday–Friday; Closed Saturday and Sunday.

Interior of Top 40 Guitars shop in Santee
Courtesy of Top 40 Guitars

Top 40 Guitars

Top 40 Guitars sources those hard-to-find items at the top of your wishlist. With a team of buyers, this guitar shop has a more curated inventory. If nothing suits you or you have your eye on another model, Top 40 Guitars will hunt down your dream guitar for you. 

Address: 8774 Cuyamaca St suit b, Santee
Hours: 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Monday–Friday; 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Saturday; Closed Sunday.

Collection of guitars at San Diego music shop Dusty's Guitars
Courtesy of Dusty’s Guitar

Dusty’s Guitar

Dusty’s Guitars in Oceanside calls itself “North County’s favorite guitar shop.” And it just might be because Dusty’s has been around since 1979. More than 40 years later, the family-owned guitar shop still specializes in guitars but it is also a full-service music store, offering repairs, lessons, and appraisals. 

Address: 1609 S Coast Highway, Oceanside
Hours: 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Monday–Friday; 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Sunday.

Interior of San Diego music shop Moonlight Music in Encinitas
Courtesy of Moonlight Music

Moonlight Music

Since 1991, Moonlight Music has been slinging guitars and hosting children’s rock bands at their Encinitas shop. A local favorite for its guitar selection, they also offer music lessons and in the summer, a weeklong children’s rock camp. Don’t forget to grab a free pick on the way out.

Address: 467 South Coast Highway, Encinitas 
Hours: 12 p.m.–5 p.m. Tuesday–Saturday; Closed Sunday and Monday.

Interior of San Diego guitar shop Music Central in Mira Mesa
Courtesy of Music Central

Music Central 

With a hefty selection of guitars, ukuleles, and every accessory to pair with, Music Central is a small-business favorite. Along with instruments for purchase, this family-owned music shop sells instructional lessons and lesson books so you can become the musical savant you’ve always wanted to be. 

Address: 8139 Mira Mesa Blvd, Mira Mesa
Hours: 11 a.m.–7 p.m. Monday–Friday; 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Sunday.

Everything SD Music
Partner Content JUNE 10, 2026

New Options for GLP-1 Users

Scripps study shows that some patients may be able to taper their dose and maintain results

New Options for GLP-1 Users
Courtesy of Scripps Health

While glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agents have been used to treat Type 2 diabetes for more than 20 years, their recent emergence as weight-loss wonder drugs marked a new frontier in medicine. But their effectiveness has left some patients wondering what to do once they’ve reached their goal. Stopping the medication could mean regaining some, if not all, of the weight. A Scripps Clinic internal medicine physician recently conducted a small study of whether GLP-1 patients who had reached their goal weight could maintain that weight by taking their regularly prescribed injection every other week instead of weekly. Spoiler alert: 30 of 34 patients did. Read more about the study here and what that may mean as pharmaceutical companies roll out oral GLP-1s.

For more nutrition, wellness, and healthy living tips, sign up for the San Diego Health newsletter here.

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