There’s something going on each month in beautiful San Diego. If your wedding weekend happens to coincide with one of the city’s unique events, it will make a nice activity for your out-of-town guests. Or you might try something for a memorable wedding party outing. Here are some top picks and as always, be sure to visit event websites and social media for updates.
San Diego Winter Events for Wedding Guests
January: It’s the start of Gray Whale watching season. Now through April, the gentle giants of the sea will begin their 10,000-mile migration from the Baja to Alaska. By land or sea, book a tour to see these majestic creatures. And for the golfers in your group, the renowned Torrey Pines Golf Course is host to the PGA Farmers Insurance Open this month.
February: It’s Museum Month! Did you know there are over 90 museums in the San Diego area? During February, many offer half-price admission. Be sure to tell your out-of-town wedding guests. San Diego also celebrates in February with a Chinese Lunar New Year Fair.
Spring San Diego Events for Wedding Parties and Guests
March: The calendar is starting to fill up with the arrival of spring. The Gaslight District revels in St. Patrick’s Day. There’s also a Cherry Blossom Festival and the nearby Borrego Springs Film Festival. Or how about a new way to see San Diego’s spectacular waterfront? Take in the annual San Diego Crew Classic. Golfers can check out the LPGA JTBC Classic. And March marks the opening of the Carlsbad Flower Fields. Now through Mid-May, see fifty beautiful acres of Giant Tecolote Ranunculus flowers. Plan a bridesmaids’ luncheon or other wedding party gathering in the Mediterranean Garden (capacity 50).
April: Batter up! It’s the start of Major League Baseball with the San Diego Padres. And April also showcases the Lakeside Rodeo, the premier rodeo of Southern California. Flower aficionados will enjoy the Coronado Flower Show. And don’t forget all the tasty food and beverage festivals – tacos, beer, wine, brunch – and Restaurant Week.
May: Old Town is the place to be for Cinco de Mayo. Here you’ll find non-stop music and entertainment including the luchadores, or wrestlers, classic lowriders, along with ice-cold cocktails and spicy snacks. Looking for more live music? Then head out to Gator by the Bay, San Diego’s Madi Gras in May.
Summertime Fun in San Diego
June: Enjoy an evening under the San Diego stars. The San Diego Symphony offers a Summer Pops series of 15-20 live concerts. Or take in the lights of the midway at the San Diego County Fair, the largest fair in California. And Taste of Italy makes a great weeknight bridal party outing.
July: It’s the one, the only – it’s Comic-Con International! Or visit the Comic-Con Museum, open year-round. The Museum is part of San Diego’s Residents Free admission days, so include a stop on a bridal party outing. If your out-of-town guests are looking to discover some true San Diego history, mark this month’s calendar for the Festival of the Bells at San Diego de Alcala – California’s oldest missionary, established in 1769.
August: Balboa Park plays host to Twilight Concerts midweek during the month – another easy and FREE San Diego wedding party outing. You’ll also find a free summer concert series at Point Loma Park. Or make trackside reservations for dining at the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club to kick off a bachelor(ette) night on the town.
San Diego Fall Festivals and Holiday Events
September: The San Diego Festival of the Arts is a relaxing way for your out-of-town wedding guests to while away some time. It’s typically held the weekend after Labor Day. There are over 150 artists plus food, wine, and entertainment. September also brings the Pacific Islander Festival, a showcase of cultures, customs, food, and entertainment held at Mission Beach’s Ski Bay.
October: Take in something different with the San Diego International Film Festival. Or sip some of California’s finest and enjoy the scene at the LaJolla Wine & Art Festival. And San Diego has one of the top Halloween haunts in America with the Haunted Trail Balboa Park.
November: Thanksgiving isn’t the only reason to enjoy fine food and beverages. One of the best in the country, the San Diego Food + Wine Festival is a week-long culinary celebration. November also welcomes Fleet Week to San Diego with events open to the public. And enjoy one of the longest-running music festivals, the San Diego Jazz Fest.
December: From land or water, San Diego has holiday lights covered. Celebrate the season with San Diego Bay’s Parade of Lights with over 80 boats. Experience Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo. Visit the Wonderland at San Diego Botanic Garden. Or enjoy a December night in Balboa Park.
What Else Can Your San Diego Wedding Guests Do?
Ghost tours and murder mysteries are also popular go-to’s for wedding party outings and out-of-town guest activities. Ghost tours are available by bus or trolley. Or you can stroll through the streets of San Diego. You can also enjoy murder with a meal at The Dinner Detective and even host your own interactive murder mystery.
San Diego is a beautiful, charming place filled with incredible sights and events. Hopefully, your wedding guests will take a few extra days to explore just some of what the city has to offer.
