Little ones can practice bug collecting, insect-themed arts and crafts, and even taste cooked mealworm larva (eww!) at the San Diego Botanic Garden’s two-day fest. July 12–13, free for members; free with admission for non-members, sdbgarden.org
San Diego Zoo Summer Camps
Everyone from kindergarteners to high school seniors can take a walk on the wild side in a variety of five-day camps that dig into animal behavior, behind-the-scenes zoo secrets, scavenger hunts, and more. June 23–August 22, $212+, sandiegozoo.org
Tiger Trail
Cats aren’t known for swimming, but at the new Safari Park exhibit, watch as the endangered Sumatran tigers show off their hydrophilic skills, and learn how the fierce animal lives in Indonesia’s diverse island conditions. $36+ (admission), sdzsafaripark.org
Flow Camp
It’s every kid’s dream to play at an amusement park for a whole week. In this camp, they’ll finesse their flowboarding skills with Belmont Park’s signature FlowRider, and have access to park rides, laser tag, rock climbing, mini golf, and more. June 16–August 15, $299, belmontpark.com
LEGOLAND Chima Water Park
The Carlsbad resort recently gave its water park a refresh with a new theme pegged to the Chima LEGO TV series. Cool down in the wave pool, water slides, build-a-boat stations, and a lush tropical forest. $82+ (admission), legoland.com
Sea Days at Birch Aquarium
This monthly exploratory event teaches kids about the wild, wacky, and wonderful world of oceanography, with hands-on activities and chats with Scripps scientists. May 17–August 16, $11+ (admission), aquarium.ucsd.edu
The Museum of Contemporary Art’s creative program invites six-to-12-year-olds to channel their inner Picassos at their weeklong workshops led by contemporary artists. This year’s themes include mixed media and sculpture. July 28–August 15, $90-$390, mcasd.org
Theatre Arts School of San Diego
Thespian kids will thrive as they learn proper theatrical techniques in a non-competitive environment. Prices range from $195–$397, theatreartssd.org
Lux Art Institute
This popular six-week Summer Art Camp for kids is back to help your mini artists hone their creative skills. Each week has a different discipline, like drawing, book arts, mixed media, and sculpture. Prices start at $170, luxartinstitute.org
iD Tech
Calling all future Steve Jobs! These summer programs at UC San Diego and CSU San Marcos are perfect for programmer-wannabes.Code.org’s Hour of Code includes one-on-one instruction and an emphasis on 21st-century skills like problem-solving and creativity, as students program games, animations, and more. Prices vary, idtech.com
Despite June gloom, it’s finally time to drag out your grills and start prepping your kitchen for a summer full of the finest grilled meats. There’s nothing quite like three uninterrupted months dedicated solely to hot charcoal, a full gas tank, and unhealthy amounts of barbecue sauce. Sure, there are tons of grilling guides out there (not that you, a grill master, would need one), but what about a guide on where to find the types of meats that deserve to be grilled?
San Diego’s butcher shops offer something for every meat lover, from premium Wagyu to sustainable, locally sourced meats. It’s your time to impress your friends and family with your knowledge of meat cuts and to argue about the best way to smoke these premium proteins. Plus, it’s never too early to start preparing for that unspoken Fourth of July BBQ competition that you must win this year.
So, whether you’re a meat connoisseur who never misses a cook out or just a casual carnivore like me, we’ve got you covered with eight of the best butcher shops in San Diego.
Courtesy of the Wise Ox
The Wise Ox
With two locations in North Park and La Costa, The Wise Ox offers a unique butcher experience. You can sign up for a class to practice your knife skills and learn breakdown techniques on a heritage breed pig, then treat yourself to a generous Philly cheesesteak sandwich. Chef Brad Wise (Rare Society, Fort Oak) and his team have also curated the Ox Box, a monthly meat subscription featuring around 10 pounds of premium proteins, all vacuum-sealed for easy storage. The box even includes recipes and tricks for dishes like Shawarma Whole Chicken and Mojo Pork Loin.
7750 El Camino Real Suite P, La Costa and 2855 El Cajon Blvd #1, North Park
Iowa Meat Farms Siesel’s Meat
Since 1968, Siesel’s Old Fashioned Meats and its sister shop, Iowa Meat Farms, have been San Diego’s best-kept secrets, catering to home-cooking enthusiasts and local foodies alike. Known for their friendly environment and butchers who know regulars by name, these shops offer an impressive array of more than 300 cuts of beef, Berkshire pork, free-range poultry, and even exotic meats like alligator and ostrich. Beyond meat, their vast retail spaces are stocked with top-notch produce, artisanal cheeses, gourmet condiments, and specialty items from near and far. Who knows, maybe alligator is the flare you didn’t know your grilling needed.
6041 Mission Gorge Rd, Grantville and 4131 Ashton Street, Bay Park
Sepulveda Meats & Provisions
Sepulveda Meats & Provisions is a beloved neighborhood butcher shop in Golden Hill, known for its warm customer service and tasty meats. With interesting offerings like fresh quail and a mass selection of sausages, it’s a must-visit for meat lovers. It’s no surprise that locals eagerly anticipate their daily chalkboard updates showcasing the latest sausage selections. I think it’s time to break up with the grocery store (and move to Golden Hill).
1220 28th St, Golden Hill
Courtesy of The Butchery Quality Meats
The Butchery
The Butchery, with its latest location in Del Mar, is a great spot for high-quality meats, artisan cheeses, craft beer, and wine. This isn’t just a typical butcher shop; it’s an all-in-one gourmet grocery store and meat-dedicated restaurant with a hand-cut meat selection ready for you to take home. Dubbed “Best Butcher Shop in San Diego” in 2019, it offers a selection ranging from dry-aged and wet-aged steaks to an extensive list of pre-marinated meats and even more obscure options.
3720 Caminito Ct #200, Del Mar
Ranch 45
Who doesn’t love their meals with a side of community spirit and a dash of dry-aged goodness? Just across from the Del Mar race track, Ranch 45 is Solana Beach’s hidden gem for those who appreciate quality eats and meats. Whether you’re stopping by for beef tallow fries, steak tasting or picking up some dry aged cuts from their small butcher shop, it’s clear they take their farm-to-table mission seriously. With all-natural meats and a commitment to no-hormone, no-antibiotics products, it’s the kind of place that feels as welcoming as it does delicious.
512 Via De La Valle #102, Solana Beach
Courtesy of The Meatery
The Meatery
If you are not a world traveler, don’t worry, your meats still can be. Founded during the pandemic, The Meatery provides restaurant-quality proteins to consumers, with special Meatery box deals and specials. They specialize in Japanese A5 Wagyu, Australian Wagyu, and American Wagyu, along with other first-rate meats. For the ultimate Wagyu experience, head to Mission Gorge, where their entire Wagyu inventory awaits, alongside prime beef, veal, fish, premium pork and lamb from New Zealand.
6160 Fairmount Avenue, Grantville
Tip Top Meats
At Tip Top Meats, it really is “all about the meats.” This butcher shop has been a carnivore’s dream since 1967, with owner John Haedrich emphasizing, “there is no substitute for quality.” Not only do they offer delectable dishes at their Eatery and a European market full of specialty items, but they’re also one of Southern California’s last hanging meat buyers, guaranteeing freshness and flavor. From their hand-cut Angus Beef steaks and praised service to custom orders and whole-roasted specialties, they’re ready to turn any office party into a delicious soiree.
Temporarily closed; new location coming soon. Follow their Instagram for updates.
Cowboy Star Restaurant and Butcher
Craving a woodfired elk rack chop? Thought so. Cowboy Star serves up this dish in their rustic, cowboy-themed restaurant (complete with exposed beam ceilings). Open Monday to Thursday 3 p.m.-10 p.m., Friday and Saturday 4 p.m.-10:30 p.m., Sunday 4 p.m.-9 p.m., they feature prime cuts like New York Strip, 21-day aged Prime Ribeye, and Hokkaido A5 Wagyu NY Strip flown in from Japan. Best of all, you can embark on a complete culinary adventure and indulge in to-go favorites like macaroni and cheese and chocolate chip bread pudding.
Isabella Dallas is a freelance writer for San Diego Magazine and the Arts and Culture Editor at The Daily Aztec in her final year at San Diego State University. She previously worked as an editorial intern for SDM, but when she’s not writing, you can find her trying the best coffee spots in SD, devouring the latest rom-coms, and indulging in anything and everything pop culture.
The new multimillion-dollar, 12-acre park promises soak-happy fun with towering splash fountains in the middle of downtown. Free, co.san-diego.ca.us
Insect Festival
Little ones can practice bug collecting, insect-themed arts and crafts, and even taste cooked mealworm larva (eww!) at the San Diego Botanic Garden’s two-day fest. July 12–13, free for members; free with admission for non-members, sdbgarden.org
San Diego Zoo Summer Camps
Everyone from kindergarteners to high school seniors can take a walk on the wild side in a variety of five-day camps that dig into animal behavior, behind-the-scenes zoo secrets, scavenger hunts, and more. June 23–August 22, $212+, sandiegozoo.org
Tiger Trail
Cats aren’t known for swimming, but at the new Safari Park exhibit, watch as the endangered Sumatran tigers show off their hydrophilic skills, and learn how the fierce animal lives in Indonesia’s diverse island conditions. $36+ (admission), sdzsafaripark.org
Flow Camp
It’s every kid’s dream to play at an amusement park for a whole week. In this camp, they’ll finesse their flowboarding skills with Belmont Park’s signature FlowRider, and have access to park rides, laser tag, rock climbing, mini golf, and more. June 16–August 15, $299, belmontpark.com
LEGOLAND Chima Water Park
The Carlsbad resort recently gave its water park a refresh with a new theme pegged to the Chima LEGO TV series. Cool down in the wave pool, water slides, build-a-boat stations, and a lush tropical forest. $82+ (admission), legoland.com
Sea Days at Birch Aquarium
This monthly exploratory event teaches kids about the wild, wacky, and wonderful world of oceanography, with hands-on activities and chats with Scripps scientists. May 17–August 16, $11+ (admission), aquarium.ucsd.edu
Summer C.A.M.P
The Museum of Contemporary Art’s creative program invites six-to-12-year-olds to channel their inner Picassos at their weeklong workshops led by contemporary artists. This year’s themes include mixed media and sculpture. July 28–August 15, $90-$390, mcasd.org
Theatre Arts School of San Diego
Thespian kids will thrive as they learn proper theatrical techniques in a non-competitive environment. Prices range from $195–$397, theatreartssd.org
Lux Art Institute
This popular six-week Summer Art Camp for kids is back to help your mini artists hone their creative skills. Each week has a different discipline, like drawing, book arts, mixed media, and sculpture. Prices start at $170, luxartinstitute.org
iD Tech
Calling all future Steve Jobs! These summer programs at UC San Diego and CSU San Marcos are perfect for programmer-wannabes.Code.org’s Hour of Code includes one-on-one instruction and an emphasis on 21st-century skills like problem-solving and creativity, as students program games, animations, and more. Prices vary, idtech.com
Summer camp isn’t just for kids. At least not in Carmel, where the 500-acre Carmel Valley Ranch offers a lot more than just rest and relaxation. How about a workshop on pickling and canning, or a class taught by a regional artist? Also beginning this month, book a Honey & Lavender Harvest Weekend. Learn to make lavender soap using one of the property’s 7,500 lavender plants or harvest sweet stuff at the Ranch’s Italian honeybee farm. The resort chef uses both in his homemade lavender and honey ice creams. Come next year, they’ll be harvesting their own Pinot Noir grapes, to be released in 2016. And parents, take note: The Ranch offers kids’ camps with programming created by elementary school teachers. carmelvalleyranch.com
Today’s seniors are more connected than ever, with a renewed focus on retirement as a time of discovery and enriching experiences. The ultimate reward for a retirement well-earned is the wisdom to appreciate it all, and what better place to enjoy that unique perspective than Vi at La Jolla Village, in the heart of San Diego.
All-access pass to good living.
As a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC), Vi provides access to a connected and fulfilling community while making it easy to plan for future care, should the need ever arise. With a care plan in place, residents enjoy greater financial predictability and long-term value, freeing them to focus on making the most out of retirement.
Resort-style amenities at the epicenter of a cultural hub like San Diego offer a retirement experience unlike any other. Paired with exceptional dining, spacious accommodations and dedicated staff, the best of maintenance-free living is all around. And with the introduction of Vista 360 Well-Being, Vi’s panoramic approach to wellness, there are more ways than ever for residents to access it all.
The harmony of mind, body and community.
Courtesy of Vi at La Jolla Village
The key to longevity is striking the right balance in maintaining an active lifestyle with an active mind in a fulfilling community. With newly renovated community spaces and restaurants, Vista brings a variety of opportunities for residents to elevate their well-being through Vi-exclusive “Signature Experiences.”
Vista Enrich takes an evidence-based approach to brain vitality, keeping residents at the forefront of cognitive health through exergaming (exercising + gaming), nutritional plans and informative workshops. It is also home to The Brain Vitality Studio, an innovative facility dedicated to cognitive fitness that has garnered national recognition.
Vista Discover invites residents into stimulating educational experiences, from chef-led cooking demos and guided wine tastings to lectures at local universities and intimate lectures following cultural outings.
While Vista Enrich focuses on brain health and Vista Discover engages residents intellectually, Vista Explore cultivates a sense of adventure through curated travel and local excursions. But broadening one’s horizons doesn’t always require a plane ticket. One recent event brought a taste of the world right to the community: an onsite “jazz cruise” featuring live music and global cuisine served at a series of themed “ports” all within the community’s own ballroom.
“Location, location, location”
Courtesy of Vi at La Jolla Village
One of the biggest perks of life at Vi at La Jolla Village is its proximity to just about everything. With easy access to transportation and local attractions just steps away, residents can explore and engage with their community at their own pace.
“There are trolley and bus stops within a 5-minute walk that will get you to the beach, UCSD Campus, medical appointments, downtown La Jolla or San Diego, et cetera. We rarely use our car,” said resident Tom Yager.
With the best of San Diego just steps away, residents don’t just live in the city, they live within reach of everything that makes it special.
The best of all worlds.
Courtesy of Vi at La Jolla Village
At Vi at La Jolla Village, retirement isn’t a chapter to slow down; it’s an invitation to discover more. Tailored community experiences created by Vista, paired with the vibrant pulse of San Diego just outside the door, mean that residents don’t have to choose between security and adventure, connection and independence. They get all of it.
This is what an all-access pass to good living looks like: the comforts of an elevated lifestyle, a community built for growth and a city made for discovery – all in one place.
To learn more about Vi at La Jolla Village or for details on available floor plans, visit ViatLaJollaVillage.com/SDM.
October 2: Drew Brees Celebrity Pickleball Tournament
Former NFL quarterback Drew Brees will host a slew of celebrity athletes, chefs, and other hunger-relief supporters for a Celebrity Pickleball Tournament to raise money for Feeding San Diego. The tournament at the Barnes Tennis Center in Point Loma is part of the Del Mar Wine & Food Festival, which has raised more than $100,000 for Feeding San Diego and other local nonprofit organizations since 2023.
October 3: Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute Illumination Gala
Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute will celebrate 50 years of groundbreaking research at its Illumination Gala at the Fairmont Grand Del Mar. Support from the gala will help Sanford Burnham Prebys continue to advance medicine and change lives.
Courtesy of San Diego Humane Society
October 3: San Diego Humane Society’s 40th Annual Fur Ball
San Diego Humane Society supporters—both people and pets—will get dressed to the nines for the 40th annual Fur Ball. Proceeds from the event at San Diego Humane Society’s Gaines Street campus will support the organization’s efforts to care for more than 40,000 animals each year.
October 3: Voices for Children Starry Starry Night Gala
Voices for Children will celebrate the impact of its Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs) at its Starry Starry Night Gala on the Heron Lawn at the Park Hyatt Aviara Resort. The 46-year-old organization is the only agency in the county designated to provide CASAs to advocate for local foster children.
October 3: Autism Society of San Diego Diamond Anniversary Gala
Show off your sparkle at the Autism Society of San Diego Diamond Anniversary Gala at the Town & Country Resort. The nonprofit will celebrate six decades of service with dinner, entertainment, and special guests.
October 11: Robin’s Nest Rescue Rockin’ Robin Music Fest
More than 30 performers will take the stage to support Robin’s Nest Rescue at its fourth annual Rockin’ Robin Music Fest. The five-acre animal sanctuary in Ramona will also celebrate America’s 250th birthday, showcase local artisans, and introduce guests to some of its rescue animals.
October 17: Adjoin Soil to Soul Garden Party
Local nonprofit Adjoin will host a whimsical garden party fundraiser at a private home in La Mesa. The Soil to Soul Garden Party will support Adjoin’s mission to build inclusive communities and support independence for people with disabilities and veteran families experiencing homelessness.
October 24: Living Coast Discovery Center Farm to Bay
Enjoy bites, beverages, and animal encounters at Living Coast Discovery Center’s Farm to Bay fundraiser. The annual event at the nonprofit zoo and aquarium on the San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge will support coastal conservation efforts.
Sarah Sapeda is San Diego Magazine’s Custom Content Editor. In her 15 years in San Diego journalism, she has covered charitable events, health care, education, crime, current events, and more.
15 Things to Do in San Diego This Weekend: September 15-20
Stop by Adams Avenue Street Fair, sample the Capital of Craft Beer Fest, and experience the new exhibition Visiones Nocturnas: Queer Nightlife in Contemporary Art
This week marks summer’s last hurrah before the seasonal transition to fall, and there are plenty of ways to make the most of it. There’s the Surf Lounge Festival, the fifth annual BirdStock, and the two-day Adams Avenue Street Fair, all of which boast a plethora of live music options and local artisans. There are also world premieres, including the first chances to see the play A Black-billed Cuckoo at La Jolla Playhouse and MCASD’s Visiones Nocturnas: Queer Nightlife in Contemporary Art exhibition. On top of that, the Padres are back in town, and fans can pack the stands at Petco Park to support the team in their playoff push.
With September being Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, the Emilio Nares Foundation will present its 23rd annual Harvest for Hope fundraiser dinner this Thursday (5:30 p.m.). Guests will have the chance to try food from a curated selection of more than 20 chefs, breweries, and wineries from the SoCal and Baja regions while supporting a worthwhile cause. General admission is $250 online; tickets support free medical transportation, emotional care and critical services through the Emilio Nares Foundation for kids facing cancer and life-threatening diseases.
5300 Grand Del Mar Court, Del Mar
Capital of Craft Beer Fest
September 19
Though San Diego Beer Week won’t start pouring until Nov. 6, Christmas has come early for enjoyers of locally crafted brews. The 21-plus Capital of Craft Beer Fest returns Saturday (1-4 p.m.) at Broadway Pier, with local food and merchant vendors, performances by 80s Resurrection and Agent 51, and best of all, more than 70 beers to sample via unlimited two-ounce tastings.Ticket options include general admission ($57) and VIP passes ($78), which come with in-and-out privileges and an exclusive hour of premium beer sampling from noon to 1 p.m.; a portion of proceeds will go towards the San Diego Brewers Guild.
1000 North Harbor Drive, Embarcadero
Taste of Bonita
September 19
Toast to Bonita’s culture, history, and cuisine this Saturday (5-9 p.m.) during the Taste of Bonita. Held at the Bonita Museum and Cultural Center, this charitable and educational soirée will feature tastings from local restaurants, as well as silent auction drawings, children’s activities, artisans and craft items, and a gallery exhibit on BonitaFest. Tickets, which come with unlimited tastings and a beverage, are $55 for guests ages 12 and older, $20 for ages 5-12 years old, and free for kids ages four and younger; proceeds will help support the year-round free programming offered by the Bonita Historical Society.
4355 Bonita Road, Bonita
Courtesy of We the Commas
Concerts & Festivals in San Diego This Weekend
BirdStock Music Festival & Artisan Market
September 19
Who needs Woodstock when there’s BirdStock? This Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., all are invited to La Jolla’s Bird Rock neighborhood for entertainment from local musicians, an artisan market, and all-day activities to fundraise for arts and music programming at La Jolla Coastal Conservancy and Bird Rock Elementary. The 5th annual BirdStock Music Festival & Artisan Market will also include live DJs, a wine and beer garden, VIP libation areas, food trucks, pro BMX athletes and skateboarders, pickleball, a pet parade, and a custom hat bar.
5500-5700 La Jolla Boulevard, La Jolla
Surf Lounge Festival
September 19
The legend of Pacific Beach’s bygone Surf Lounge lives on this Saturday from 2-10 p.m. during this 21-plus party at The Soap Factory. Surf Lounge Festival is a passionate celebration of surf culture with a healthy dose of indie rock, featuring performances by the bands Summer Salt, Three-Legged Dog, Tropa Magica, Couch Dog, and Bēd. The festivities will also include five vinyl DJs, tattoos, and 20 local vendors. General admission is $50, and $60 the day of the festival.
2995 Commercial Street, Logan Heights
Earth, Wind & Fire at Civic Theatre
September 19
Technically, “the 21st of September” doesn’t arrive until Monday, but any concert from Earth, Wind & Fire is certainly cause for celebration. The legendary group is still carrying its legacy of love, soul, and R&B brilliance more than five decades after its formation. Experience the jubilant rhythms of the band’s greatest, most danceable hits when they play the Civic Theatre this Saturday (8 p.m.). Tickets start at $138 for this concert.
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.
NewBridge School is San Diego’s only school dedicated to the education of students with dyslexia and related learning profiles. For 30 years we have successfully served students with dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, receptive/expressive language disorders, ADHD, executive functioning and memory deficits. Students transition successfully into academically rigorous high schools and colleges across the country. Why NewBridge? Training, training, training (plus intensive individualization, and comprehensive program design). All teachers are trained and retrained biennially in Orton-Gillingham, the only approach proven to remediate dyslexia based on Science of Reading research, and complete a year-long training program. Every aspect of our program is designed around our students’ learning styles and needs. Every class is taught by a highly-trained expert, and our Speech/Language and Occupational Therapy teams embed throughout the day. Our multisensory, multi-tiered math program has been developed in conjunction with sister schools and experts across the country. Don’t wait—early intervention is magic!
