San Diego’s Weekend Arts & Culture: A Diverse Lineup

This weekend, San Diego’s arts and culture scene is bursting with diverse events, from thought-provoking visual art exhibitions and powerful musical performances to engaging literary discussions and festive holiday markets. Whether you’re looking to dive into local history, explore unique architectural insights, or simply enjoy a day out, there’s something for everyone across the county.

Visual Arts: Exploring Identity, History, and Creativity

Immerse yourself in powerful visual narratives opening this weekend. The Museum of Us unveils ‘Race: Power, Resistance & Change’ on November 14, 2025. This significant exhibit traces the history of race in the region from Spanish colonization through modern systems, featuring works by Cog•nate Collective, Hugo Crosthwaite, and more. Consider their “Membership on Us” program to extend your experience beyond a single visit.

For architecture enthusiasts, the Oceanside Museum of Art continues to showcase ‘Modern Simplicity: The Architecture of Irving J. Gill in Oceanside’ through April 26, 2025, highlighting the pioneering Southern California architect. And for a dose of vibrant local art, head to Barrio Logan’s Woo Studios on November 15 for ‘Clownin’ Around,’ a Checka-curated exhibit featuring 20 local artists, DJs, food, and lowriders.

Music: From Industrial Drone to Classical Elegance

San Diego’s music scene offers a compelling mix this weekend. Our local drone metal maestro, Tristan Shone, returns as Author & Punisher to the Casbah on November 13, 2025, showcasing his custom-built industrial instruments and new album “Nocturnal Birding.” Expect a very loud, unique experience.

For classical and contemporary sounds, the San Diego Symphony presents ‘Tales of Enchantment: Hadelich Plays Sibelius’ on November 14-15, 2025, featuring celebrated violinist Augustin Hadelich. Meanwhile, Art of Elan at the Mingei International Museum on November 16, 2025, brings compositions by contemporary artists like Jessie Montgomery and Pulitzer winner Caroline Shaw in a serene setting.

Fans of influential modern classical music won’t want to miss the Bang on a Can All-Stars performing pieces from Ryuichi Sakamoto’s iconic album “1996” at UC San Diego’s Mandeville Auditorium on November 13, 2025.

Books: Graphic Memoirs and Hollywood Legacies

Literary events this weekend offer unique insights. As part of One Book, One San Diego, KPBS and Little Fish Comic Book Studio host “Noodles & Doodles” with author Thien Pham on November 15, 2025. Enjoy a Vietnamese lunch, an art lesson, and a discussion of his graphic memoir “Family Style.”

At Mysterious Galaxy Books on November 16, 2025, Adam Nimoy discusses his memoir, “The Most Human: Reconciling with My Father, Leonard Nimoy,” offering a personal look at his relationship with the legendary “Star Trek” actor.

Theater: New Voices and Classic Narratives

The stage lights up with both fresh perspectives and beloved stories. OnStage Playhouse premieres ‘Young Audiences’ by Mabelle Reynoso from November 14 through December 7, 2025. This new play follows a woman’s battle to bring her Latina feminist play to the public after a school theater cancels it.

Meanwhile, New Village Arts continues its run of the Tony- and Pulitzer-winning musical ‘Rent’ through December 24, 2025, offering a poignant look at struggling artists in 1990s New York City amidst the HIV/AIDS epidemic.

Film: Biopics and Youth Storytelling

Catch compelling cinema across San Diego. Digital Gym Cinema screens ‘Peter Hujar’s Day’ from November 14-20, 2025, a biopic exploring the life of groundbreaking American photographer Peter Hujar, who passed during the AIDS epidemic.

The “Reel Voices” Screening, part of Pacific Arts Movement and the San Diego Asian Film Festival, showcases documentaries by high school students. Screenings are on November 14, 2025, at Southwestern College Performing Arts Center and November 15, 2025, at UltraStar Cinemas Mission Valley.

Festivals, Family, and Markets: Holiday Shopping with a View

Get a head start on your holiday shopping at the Holiday Marketplace at Mission Trails on November 15-16, 2025. This event supports local makers, independent artists, and small businesses, offering handmade ceramics, art, food gifts, jewelry, and more, all against the stunning backdrop of Mission Trails Regional Park.

Weekend Highlights at a Glance

FAQs

• What’s the major new art exhibit opening this weekend?
  The Museum of Us opens ‘Race: Power, Resistance & Change’ on November 14, 2025, exploring the history of race in the San Diego region.
• Where can I find unique holiday gifts while enjoying nature?
  The Holiday Marketplace at Mission Trails on November 15-16, 2025, features local artisans and food gifts, perfect for early holiday shopping.
• Are there any free family-friendly book events?
  Yes, “Noodles & Doodles” with One Book, One San Diego author Thien Pham at KPBS on November 15, 2025, is free with RSVP and includes lunch and an art lesson.
• What kind of live music is available?
  Options range from San Diego’s industrial drone artist Author & Punisher at Casbah to classical performances by the San Diego Symphony and contemporary chamber music from Art of Elan.
• Can I watch independent films this weekend?
  Absolutely, Digital Gym Cinema is showing ‘Peter Hujar’s Day,’ and Pacific Arts Movement hosts “Reel Voices” youth documentary screenings at multiple locations.

With so many rich cultural experiences on offer, make sure to mark your calendar and explore the vibrant artistic tapestry San Diego has to offer this weekend!

San Diego Diverse Weekend Arts and Culture Events