Your Weekend Guide to San Diego: November 21-23
As the holiday season approaches, San Diego is buzzing with a diverse array of events designed to delight locals of all ages. From festive light displays and musical performances to unique cultural experiences and community gatherings, there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of your weekend from Friday, November 21st, to Sunday, November 23rd. Get ready to explore the best our city has to offer!
Friday Fun: Kick Off Your Weekend
Start your weekend early with a mix of music, food, and dazzling spectacles.
“Wicked For Good” Listening Party
Fans of the musical “Wicked” won’t want to miss this special listening party for the new film’s music. Vinyl Junkies is hosting the event, promising prizes and giveaways. Immerse yourself in the enchanting sounds before seeing the movie.
When: 4 p.m. Friday
Where: 2235 Fern St., San Diego
More Info: vinyljunkies.net
Friendsgiving
Gather your chosen family for an unlimited food and/or drinks Friendsgiving celebration. Enjoy an all-you-can-eat buffet for $40 per person, or opt for the open bar at $60. Reservations are highly encouraged to secure your spot.
When: 10 p.m. Friday
Where: Louisiana Purchase, 2305 University Ave., San Diego
Reservations: opentable.com/r/louisiana-purchase-sd-san-diego
Drone Art Show by Fever
Witness a spectacular aerial display featuring over 500 illuminated drones choreographed to classical music from Vivaldi’s “The Four Seasons” and Tchaikovsky’s “Swan Lake.” This 65-minute performance promises a truly unique light show experience.
When: 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday
Where: Chula Vista Elite Athlete Training Center, 2800 Olympic Parkway, Chula Vista
Cost: $41.80
More Info: thedroneartshow.com/san-diego
Skating by the Sea
The iconic ice rink at the Hotel del Coronado opens this Friday, offering a magical seaside skating experience that runs through January 4th. Enjoy festive fun with stunning ocean views.
When: Time slots vary (opens Friday)
Where: Hotel del Coronado, 1500 Orange Ave., Coronado
Cost: $35-$40
More Info: hoteldel.com/events/skating-by-the-sea
Vienna Boys Choir presents “Christmas in Vienna”
Experience the renowned Austrian youth choral group as they bring their annual holiday tour to San Diego. A beautiful evening of classic carols and festive music awaits.
When: 8 p.m. Friday
Where: Jacobs Music Center, 750 B St., downtown
Cost: $39-$94
More Info: sandiegosymphony.org
Santee Holiday Tree Lighting
Join the community for Santee’s annual Holiday Lighting event. Enjoy sledding, live music, photos with Santa, games, face painting, crafting, and seasonal treats, culminating in the tree lighting at 6:15 p.m.
When: 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday
Where: Santee Trolley Square, 9884 Mission Gorge Road
Cost: Free
More Info: cityofsanteeca.gov/calendar/events/santee-holiday-lighting/45982
Saturday Adventures: Something for Everyone
Saturday brings a mix of pet-friendly events, holiday cheer, and cultural arts.
Doggie Street Festival
The 16th annual Doggie Street Festival returns to Liberty Station, aiming to help foster dogs find their forever homes. This family-friendly event features pet services, information from veterinarians, auction prizes, live music, and food vendors.
When: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday
Where: 2455 Cushing Road, San Diego
Cost: Free admission
More Info: doggiestreetfestival.org
Yo Ho Ho-liday Tavern
Margaritaville Hotel San Diego’s LandShark Bar & Grill transforms into a pirate-themed holiday pop-up. Enjoy nautical holiday decor, special cocktails, food specials, and live appearances from pirates on Saturday evenings in December.
When: Open daily from 11 a.m. to close (Nov. 22 to Dec. 31)
Where: Margaritaville Hotel San Diego Gaslamp Quarter, 435 6th Ave., San Diego
Cost: Free to enter
More Info: margaritavilleresorts.com/margaritaville-hotel-san-diego/live-entertainment/holiday-happenings
San Diego Symphony with Pianist Steven Osborne
Conductor Anja Bihlmaler leads the orchestra in a performance featuring Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 4, Sibelius Symphony No. 1, and Olly Wilson’s Shango Memory.
When: 7:30 p.m. Saturday
Where: Jacobs Music Center, 1245 Seventh Ave., Downtown
Cost: $42-$125
More Info: sandiegosymphony.org
Artist Nick Cave Presentation
The San Diego Museum of Art hosts a conversational interview with American contemporary artist Nick Cave, discussing his work including sculpture, performance art, and video. His sculpture “Rescue” is currently on display.
When: 4 p.m. Saturday
Where: Copley Auditorium, SDMA, 1450 El Prado, Balboa Park, San Diego
Cost: $25-$35
More Info: sdmart.org
Sunday Serenity & Seasonal Delights
Wind down your weekend with art, crafts, and classical music.
Jewels of the Season Exhibit
The annual exhibit of unique, handcrafted ornaments by San Diego artists Florence Hord and Elizabeth Schlappi returns. Over 1,000 ornaments adorn a Christmas tree, encircled by an antique train from the San Diego Model Railroad Museum.
When: Ongoing
Where: Timken Museum of Art, 1500 El Prado, San Diego
More Info: timkenmuseum.org/news/timken-museum-of-art-presents-jewels-of-the-season-a-dazzling-celebration-of-art-imagination-and-seasonal-splendor
Pumpkin Succulent Workshop
Extend pumpkin season with a hands-on workshop to create a succulent planter from miniature pumpkins. Guests receive two pumpkins, succulent clippings, moss, dried flowers, and decorative accents, plus complimentary coffee or a mimosa.
When: Noon to 2 p.m. Sunday
Where: Molly’s Mission Beach, 3770 Mission Blvd., San Diego
Cost: $38.50
More Info: volosports.com
Hausmann Quartet presents “Folk Songs”
The quartet concludes its 2025 season with a performance of Bela Bartok’s Fifth Quartet aboard the historic 1898 steam ferryboat Berkeley at the Maritime Museum of San Diego.
When: 2:30 p.m. Sunday
Where: Maritime Museum of San Diego, 1492 N. Harbor Drive, downtown
Cost: $10-$60
More Info: sdmaritime.org/visit/special-events/concert-series
Ongoing Theatrical Productions
For those who love live theater, several productions are running throughout the weekend and into December:
- “Rent” at New Village Arts in Carlsbad (through Dec. 24)
- “Master Class” by The Roustabouts Theatre Company and Scripps Ranch Theatre (through Dec. 14)
- “Beauty’s Daughter” by OnWord Theatre at Diversionary Theatre Black Box (through Nov. 30)
- “¡Cómo el Grinch robó la Navidad!” (Spanish concert presentation) and “Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” at The Old Globe (through Dec. 31)
- “Dungeons & Dragons Twenty-Sided Tavern” at Balboa Theatre (through Nov. 23)
- “Eisenhower: This Piece of Ground” at North Coast Repertory Theatre (through Dec. 14)
- “The Strangers” by Chalk Circle Collective at Old Town Theatre (through Nov. 30)
- “Young Audiences” at OnStage Playhouse (through Dec. 7)
- “Working Girl” at La Jolla Playhouse (extended through Dec. 14)
- “The Waverly Gallery” by Backyard Renaissance Theatre at Tenth Avenue Arts Center (through Dec. 6)
- “To My Girls” at Diversionary Theatre (through Dec. 7)
Weekend Event Snapshot
| Event Highlight | Target Audience | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Doggie Street Festival | Pet Owners, Families | Free Admission |
| Drone Art Show | All Ages, Tech Enthusiasts | Moderate ($41.80) |
| Vienna Boys Choir | Music Lovers, Adults | Premium ($39-$94) |
| Skating by the Sea | Families, Couples | Moderate ($35-$40) |
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the top picks for families this weekend?
For family fun, consider the Doggie Street Festival, Skating by the Sea, the opening of “Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” at The Old Globe, the 4 S Dance Academy’s “The Nutcracker,” and the Fleet Science Center’s “Sea Otters” IMAX film. - Are there any free events happening in San Diego this weekend?
Yes, several events are free, including the Doggie Street Festival, the Santee Holiday Tree Lighting, the Mount Miguel High School Foundation’s holiday craft fair, and the Ilan-Lael Foundation Art & Peace Picnic. - Where can I find holiday-themed activities?
Get into the holiday spirit with Skating by the Sea, the Santee Holiday Tree Lighting, the “Yo Ho Ho-liday Tavern” pop-up, the Timken Museum’s “Jewels of the Season” exhibit, and theatrical productions like “The Nutcracker” and “How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” - What performing arts events are scheduled?
The weekend is rich with performing arts, including “Rent,” “Master Class,” “Beauty’s Daughter,” “The Grinch” in English and Spanish, the “Dungeons & Dragons Twenty-Sided Tavern,” “Eisenhower: This Piece of Ground,” the Vienna Boys Choir, San Diego Symphony, “Young Audiences,” “Working Girl,” “The Waverly Gallery,” “To My Girls,” and the Hausmann Quartet.
With such a vibrant lineup, San Diego offers an abundance of activities to enjoy. Remember to check specific event websites for any last-minute changes or reservation requirements, and have a fantastic weekend!
San Diego November Weekend Guide
