Looking for something fun to do this weekend? There's always something going on in America's Finest City.
Hamilton: An American Musical
7:30 p.m. (Time vary; through Jan. 28), San Diego Civic Theatre
This is finally your shot, San Diego. The famed, Tony Award-winning Broadway musical, “Hamilton,” takes over downtown’s Civic Theatre this month, with performances through Jan. 28. Thursday’s show is at 7:30 p.m. Most performances are sold out but we’d be remiss if we didn’t tell you this hit was coming through town – and you’d wonder why the crowds near the theatre were so big. The Hamilton app is offering a digital lottery-type system where fans can enter for a chance to buy orchestra tickets for $10. “Hamilton” is the brainchild of Lin-Manuel Miranda, based on Ron Chernow’s biography of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton. Its trailblazing score blends hip-hop, jazz, blues, rap, R&B and Broadway as it unravels the story of America – then and now.
7:30 p.m. (Time vary; through Jan. 28), San Diego Civic Theatre
This is finally your shot, San Diego. The famed, Tony Award-winning Broadway musical, “Hamilton,” takes over downtown’s Civic Theatre this month, with performances through Jan. 28. Thursday’s show is at 7:30 p.m. Most performances are sold out but we’d be remiss if we didn’t tell you this hit was coming through town – and you’d wonder why the crowds near the theatre were so big. The Hamilton app is offering a digital lottery-type system where fans can enter for a chance to buy orchestra tickets for $10. “Hamilton” is the brainchild of Lin-Manuel Miranda, based on Ron Chernow’s biography of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton. Its trailblazing score blends hip-hop, jazz, blues, rap, R&B and Broadway as it unravels the story of America – then and now.
Friday, Jan. 12
Whale Watching Aboard America
11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Maritime Museum of San Diego
Experience San Diego’s whale watching season aboard America, a 138-foot sailing yacht that launches from the Maritime Museum. This 4-hour tour cruises the coastline on a quest to view the sea creatures. Light snacks and beverages are included in the ticket price, plus admission to the Maritime Museum of San Diego before or after the cruise. Tickets range from $42.50 to $85, with discounts for active duty and retired military. Check-in is 30 minutes before your departure time at the booth in front of the Berkeley Steam Ferry.
11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Maritime Museum of San Diego
Experience San Diego’s whale watching season aboard America, a 138-foot sailing yacht that launches from the Maritime Museum. This 4-hour tour cruises the coastline on a quest to view the sea creatures. Light snacks and beverages are included in the ticket price, plus admission to the Maritime Museum of San Diego before or after the cruise. Tickets range from $42.50 to $85, with discounts for active duty and retired military. Check-in is 30 minutes before your departure time at the booth in front of the Berkeley Steam Ferry.
Santiago Quesnel
1 p.m. to 5 p.m., Lux Art Institute
The works of visiting Argentinian artist Santiago Quesnel are currently on exhibit at Lux Art Institute in Encinitas (1550 South El Camino Real). Quesnel’s paintings are inspired by the memories and layered landscapes of his hometown of Buenos Aires. His art is on display at the Lux’s Artist Pavilion through Feb. 17, which is open from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Fridays. Admission to the Lux is $5 for adults and free for children ages 18 and younger. If you ride your bike there, you get in free, too.
1 p.m. to 5 p.m., Lux Art Institute
The works of visiting Argentinian artist Santiago Quesnel are currently on exhibit at Lux Art Institute in Encinitas (1550 South El Camino Real). Quesnel’s paintings are inspired by the memories and layered landscapes of his hometown of Buenos Aires. His art is on display at the Lux’s Artist Pavilion through Feb. 17, which is open from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Fridays. Admission to the Lux is $5 for adults and free for children ages 18 and younger. If you ride your bike there, you get in free, too.
Poway Winter Festival
5 p.m. to 9 p.m. (Friday & Saturday), Poway Community ParkWinter in San Diego? Well, it’s possible – at least at this festival at Poway Community Park. The annual Winter Festival goes down between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m. Friday and again Saturday, from 3:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., and will boast man-made snow, sledding, marshmallow roasting and an ice rink. As visitors enjoy those weekend activities, vendors will be on-hand selling their goodies. The event is free; a free shuttle service will be available from the Boys and Girls Club, City Hall and Tarascan parking lots.
5 p.m. to 9 p.m. (Friday & Saturday), Poway Community ParkWinter in San Diego? Well, it’s possible – at least at this festival at Poway Community Park. The annual Winter Festival goes down between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m. Friday and again Saturday, from 3:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., and will boast man-made snow, sledding, marshmallow roasting and an ice rink. As visitors enjoy those weekend activities, vendors will be on-hand selling their goodies. The event is free; a free shuttle service will be available from the Boys and Girls Club, City Hall and Tarascan parking lots.
Cardio Samba (Brazil)
6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Crown Dance StudioPower up your workout routine with this high-energy class at Crown Dance Studio (6904 Miramar Rd.). Gladys Altafani, a Sambista of the Brazilian Carnivale, leads fun every Friday. Drop-in classes cost $20; if you sign up for a membership, the price drops by a few dollars.
6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Crown Dance StudioPower up your workout routine with this high-energy class at Crown Dance Studio (6904 Miramar Rd.). Gladys Altafani, a Sambista of the Brazilian Carnivale, leads fun every Friday. Drop-in classes cost $20; if you sign up for a membership, the price drops by a few dollars.
Group Works to Restore Balboa Park Carousel
Carl Verheyen: Essential Blues
7 p.m. to 9 p.m., Museum of Making Music
The Museum of Making Music in Carlsbad (5790 Armada Dr.) hosts world-class musician Carl Verheyen for two concerts this weekend – one on Friday and the other Saturday. Verheyen, who will be joined on stage by renowned bassist Dave Marotta and drummer John Mader, will play music from his newest album, “Essential Blues.” General tickets cost $25 and premium tickets cost $30; the doors open at 6:30 p.m.
7 p.m. to 9 p.m., Museum of Making Music
The Museum of Making Music in Carlsbad (5790 Armada Dr.) hosts world-class musician Carl Verheyen for two concerts this weekend – one on Friday and the other Saturday. Verheyen, who will be joined on stage by renowned bassist Dave Marotta and drummer John Mader, will play music from his newest album, “Essential Blues.” General tickets cost $25 and premium tickets cost $30; the doors open at 6:30 p.m.
Around the World in 80 Days
8 p.m., North Coast Repertory Theatre
The North Coast Rep presents “Around the World in 80 Days,” through Feb. 4. The play is adapted by Mark Brown from the iconic novel by Jules Verne about a fearless adventurer circling the globe alive with danger, romance, and comic surprises at every turn. The fast-paced production features five actors portraying 42 characters in a race against time. Thursday’s performance is at 8 p.m.; tickets start at $39.
8 p.m., North Coast Repertory Theatre
The North Coast Rep presents “Around the World in 80 Days,” through Feb. 4. The play is adapted by Mark Brown from the iconic novel by Jules Verne about a fearless adventurer circling the globe alive with danger, romance, and comic surprises at every turn. The fast-paced production features five actors portraying 42 characters in a race against time. Thursday’s performance is at 8 p.m.; tickets start at $39.
Bill Bellamy
7:30 p.m. & 9:30 p.m., The American Comedy Co.Comic, actor and host Bill Bellamy will headline at The American Comedy Co. in downtown San Diego this weekend with performances Friday, Saturday and Sunday. His first two 21+ stand-up acts go down at 7:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Friday; tickets cost $20.
7:30 p.m. & 9:30 p.m., The American Comedy Co.Comic, actor and host Bill Bellamy will headline at The American Comedy Co. in downtown San Diego this weekend with performances Friday, Saturday and Sunday. His first two 21+ stand-up acts go down at 7:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Friday; tickets cost $20.
Cinema Under the Stars: 'American Made'8 p.m. Cinema Under the Stars (Mission Hills)Enjoy a movie under the stars at this outdoor theater on Goldfinch Street in Mission Hills. The winter/spring screening season recently began, with a movie playing at 8 p.m. now through April 29 every Friday and Saturday night. This weekend, the Tom Cruise flick, "American Made," is on the big screen. Check the Cinema Under the Stars website for a schedule of which movies are playing when throughout the season.
Saturday, Jan. 13
2018 Padres FanFest
10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Petco Park
Attention all Padres fans: this is your chance to meet some of your favorite players before they begin the 2018 season. This free event at Petco Park is filled with activities for both kids and adults, including bounce houses, a look at the new Brietbard Hall of Fame, a virtual Home Run Derby experience and so much more. The popular Padres Foundation Garage Sale will return to offer fans a chance to purchase memorabilia and collectibles. Although admission is free, you do need to claim your complimentary tickets here.
10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Petco Park
Attention all Padres fans: this is your chance to meet some of your favorite players before they begin the 2018 season. This free event at Petco Park is filled with activities for both kids and adults, including bounce houses, a look at the new Brietbard Hall of Fame, a virtual Home Run Derby experience and so much more. The popular Padres Foundation Garage Sale will return to offer fans a chance to purchase memorabilia and collectibles. Although admission is free, you do need to claim your complimentary tickets here.
Jurassic Tour
10 a.m. (Saturday through Monday), Del Mar FairgroundsThis dinosaur expo – complete with 50 life-like, moving, roaring displays – takes over the Del Mar Fairgrounds Saturday (10 a.m. to 9 p.m.), Sunday (10 a.m. to 7 p.m.) and Monday (10 a.m. to 6 p.m.). The event includes exhibitions and activities for the kids like fossil digs and rides on animatronic dinosaurs. Admission costs $27 for kids, and includes access to fossil digs, bounce houses, basketball and the Dino Theatre and Band. Dino rides can be purchased separately. Adult tickets cost $22; there are discounts for military and senior citizens.
10 a.m. (Saturday through Monday), Del Mar FairgroundsThis dinosaur expo – complete with 50 life-like, moving, roaring displays – takes over the Del Mar Fairgrounds Saturday (10 a.m. to 9 p.m.), Sunday (10 a.m. to 7 p.m.) and Monday (10 a.m. to 6 p.m.). The event includes exhibitions and activities for the kids like fossil digs and rides on animatronic dinosaurs. Admission costs $27 for kids, and includes access to fossil digs, bounce houses, basketball and the Dino Theatre and Band. Dino rides can be purchased separately. Adult tickets cost $22; there are discounts for military and senior citizens.
Travel & Adventure Show10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Saturday & Sunday), San Diego Convention CenterDiscover the world, in one weekend, all under one roof. The Travel & Adventure Show returns to the San Diego Convention Center this Saturday (10 a.m. to 5 p.m.) and Sunday (11 a.m. 4 p.m.), showcasing the many ways in which to explore our great big world. The expo features exhibitors to help you plan your next vacation, entertainment and seminars featuring travel pros. On Saturday, globetrotting TV host Samantha Brown will host a panel from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Tickets to the Travel & Adventure Show range from $11 to $22 for adults; children age 16 and under get in free when accompanied by an adult. Active duty U.S. military service members, with a valid ID, can get in free with up to four members of their family.
San Diego's Top Breweries
Lucky Street Vintage Market10 a.m. to 4 p.m., 1722 South Coast Highway #3, OceansideEvery Saturday and Sunday, Lucky Street Productions hosts its “vintage marketplace” in a large warehouse filled with vintage finds in a variety of styles. From shabby chic to oddities and French country to glam, you are sure to find the vintage style of your choice. The market sells clothing items, gardening items, architecture, craft supplies and so much more.
20th Annual Multi-Cultural Festival
11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Ruocco ParkCelebrate San Diego’s diversity by indulging in cuisine from countries around the world while musicians perform traditional music from their heritage. Retailers will be selling both cultural items and goods from local shops. This free annual event will showcase the cultures of Native Americans, Asians, Latin Americans, and Africans, just to name a few.
11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Ruocco ParkCelebrate San Diego’s diversity by indulging in cuisine from countries around the world while musicians perform traditional music from their heritage. Retailers will be selling both cultural items and goods from local shops. This free annual event will showcase the cultures of Native Americans, Asians, Latin Americans, and Africans, just to name a few.
8th Annual San Diego Brew Fest12 p.m. to 4 p.m., Liberty StationThis is one for the craft beer lovers. San Diego Brew Fest brings some of the most popular beers from around the county (and world!) together in one place. Oh, and we can’t forget to mention the ever-important food trucks. For $45 guests will get unlimited beer tastes for three hours. Get an additional hour with the $55 VIP pass.
Sunday, Jan. 14
Guided Nature Walk
9:30 a.m., Mission Trails Regional Park Visitor Center
Join a trail guide from Mission Trails Regional Park (MTRP) on this free, 1.5-hour nature walk and learn about the plants, animals, geology, history and ecology of the park. The walk begins at the Visitor Center and will head out to one of three scenic trails: The Oak Grove Loop, The Visitor Center Loop, or The Riverside Grinding Rocks. These walks are typically held at MTRP every Saturday, Sunday and Wednesday at 9:30 a.m. Wear close-toed shoes and sunscreen, and bring water.
9:30 a.m., Mission Trails Regional Park Visitor Center
Join a trail guide from Mission Trails Regional Park (MTRP) on this free, 1.5-hour nature walk and learn about the plants, animals, geology, history and ecology of the park. The walk begins at the Visitor Center and will head out to one of three scenic trails: The Oak Grove Loop, The Visitor Center Loop, or The Riverside Grinding Rocks. These walks are typically held at MTRP every Saturday, Sunday and Wednesday at 9:30 a.m. Wear close-toed shoes and sunscreen, and bring water.
Things to Do in Old Town
Carlsbad Marathon and Half-MarathonThis is the perfect event for those looking to stick with their New Year’s resolutions. What better place for a run than along the Pacific Coast in Carlsbad with hundreds of running (and walking) buddies? Not up for a marathon just yet? No worries! The Surf Sun Run 5K is another great option to keep you moving. The entry fee ranges from $50 to $150 depending on the race you choose.
38th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Parade2 p.m., North Harbor Drive and Ash StreetIt’s one of the biggest celebrations in the country to honor civil rights icon Martin Luther King Jr., according to their website. Floats and performers from around San Diego County will parade through the streets of San Diego, from its starting point at North Harbor Drive and Ash Street to the Embarcadero.
Things to Do at Balboa Park
Bite San Diego Walking Tours
Weekends, Times Vary, Locations Vary
Bite San Diego takes foodies on a three-hour or more walking tour through a select San Diego County neighborhood, offering samples of the culinary scene from at least five restaurants while showcasing the neighborhood’s history. Tours make an average of five stops at some of the most mouthwatering restaurants in San Diego. Select from walking tours in North Park, Liberty Station, Downtown San Diego, Coronado, La Jolla and Encinitas. Tours are offered Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays (depending on the location) and hours vary. For more customization, Bite San Diego offers private tours.
Weekends, Times Vary, Locations Vary
Bite San Diego takes foodies on a three-hour or more walking tour through a select San Diego County neighborhood, offering samples of the culinary scene from at least five restaurants while showcasing the neighborhood’s history. Tours make an average of five stops at some of the most mouthwatering restaurants in San Diego. Select from walking tours in North Park, Liberty Station, Downtown San Diego, Coronado, La Jolla and Encinitas. Tours are offered Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays (depending on the location) and hours vary. For more customization, Bite San Diego offers private tours.
Wynonna & The Big Noise
7:30 p.m., California Center for the Arts Escondido
Grammy-winning country music icon Wynonna Judd & The Big Noise headline the Concert Hall Sunday night at the California Center for the Arts in Escondido. Tickets to this one-night-only show range from $35 to $80.
7:30 p.m., California Center for the Arts Escondido
Grammy-winning country music icon Wynonna Judd & The Big Noise headline the Concert Hall Sunday night at the California Center for the Arts in Escondido. Tickets to this one-night-only show range from $35 to $80.
Tom Gun Live
8 p.m., The Music Box
This one isn’t for the faint of heart. The parody play of the classic Tom Cruise movie Top Gun has actors collaborating with guests to create a one-of-a-kind event. The premise: “Tom Cruise” has invited you to his birthday party where he’s reviving his role as Maverick, but unfortunately he’s running late. It’s up to you to fill in. Tom Cruise also asks you to come dressed as your favorite character from his career. It is his birthday, after all! Tickets start at $33
8 p.m., The Music Box
This one isn’t for the faint of heart. The parody play of the classic Tom Cruise movie Top Gun has actors collaborating with guests to create a one-of-a-kind event. The premise: “Tom Cruise” has invited you to his birthday party where he’s reviving his role as Maverick, but unfortunately he’s running late. It’s up to you to fill in. Tom Cruise also asks you to come dressed as your favorite character from his career. It is his birthday, after all! Tickets start at $33
Free or Cheap Things to Do in San DiegoTimes and locations varyFree or Cheap Things to Do in San Diego
Looking to save some cash, but still enjoy the city? In San Diego, there are still plenty of activities to enjoy for free or on the cheap. Go for a hike at Torrey Pines State Park or Cowles Mountain, stroll Balboa Park, try a new craft brewery, admire the murals of Chicano Park or read a book at a downtown park. Get out there and explore America’s Finest City.
Looking to save some cash, but still enjoy the city? In San Diego, there are still plenty of activities to enjoy for free or on the cheap. Go for a hike at Torrey Pines State Park or Cowles Mountain, stroll Balboa Park, try a new craft brewery, admire the murals of Chicano Park or read a book at a downtown park. Get out there and explore America’s Finest City.
Courtesy NBC SanDiego
