San Diego is booming this July, literally. Whether it’s fireworks lighting up the bay on the 4th, the San Diego Pride Parade dancing through Balboa Park, or waterside concerts at the Shell, the city’s summer energy is in full swing. Check out Independence Day festivities, sip wine at USD’s dreamy campus, or don your most extravagant derby hat for Opening Day at the Del Mar Racetrack—this month is stacked with can’t-miss events. Here are the best things to do in San Diego this July.
Sip for student scholarships at the all-inclusive USD Wine Classic. This fundraiser on the University of San Diego campus in Linda Vista will feature a gourmet menu, live music, and tastings from over 20 wineries.
Stop by Liberty Station in Point Loma to celebrate more than 100 fabulous local restaurants, drink makers, and more at San Diego Magazine’s annual Best of San Diego Party. Tickets start at $99
Photo Credit: Brent Goldman Beck
Concerts & Festivals in San Diego This Month
Earth, Wind & Fire at the Rady Shell
July 6
Do you remember? Well, then dance like it’s the 21st night of September—because Earth, Wind & Fire has a funk-filled night in store at The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park.
The county’s LGBTQ community and its allies will show up and show out for a series of San Diego Pride festivities, including an electric two-day festival at Balboa Park.
Father John Misty at CalCoast Credit Union Open Air Theatre
July 23
Absurdity, existentialism, and poetic romance are all the hallmarks of a Father John Misty record. See him perform the transcendent Mahashmashanaat the CalCoast Credit Union Open Air Theatre on SDSU’s campus.
Beck with the San Diego Symphony Orchestra at the Rady Shell
Cats & Castles: A Studio Ghibli Fan Art Show at Thumbprint Gallery
July 11–26
Inspired by the animations of visionary Japanese filmmakers Studio Ghibli, Cats & Castles: A Studio Ghibli Fan Art Showwill showcase magical creatures and wondrous visions at Thumbprint Gallery in La Jolla.
A Gentleman’s Guideto Love and Murder at North Coast Repertory Theatre
July 16–August 10
In the musical A Gentleman’s Guideto Love and Murder, a rags-to-riches romp coming to the North Coast Repertory Theatre in Solana Beach, one man launches an audacious power grab.
Exotic Themes for the Silver Screen at the Epstein Family Amphitheater
Take a closer look at the textiles that blanket our lives with Fabulous Fiber, an exhibition at the Oceanside Museum of Art exploring the art form’s finer details.
Courtesy of Del Mar Thoroughbred Club
More Fun Things to Do in San Diego This Month
Big Bay Boom Firework Show
July 4
Here come the fireworks! Shooting off from the San Diego Bay, the Big Bay Boom will set the city’s shores aglow.
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.
