Planning your trip and wondering about the best things to do in November 2024 in San Diego? This vibrant city has a plethora of activities lined up. From cultural festivals and food events to unique holiday celebrations, there’s something for everyone. Read on to explore the top events and activities San Diego has to offer in November 2024.
Key Takeaways
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November in San Diego is packed with cultural events like Dia de los Muertos celebrations and Fleet Week, honoring community and servicemen.
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Craft beer lovers can enjoy San Diego Beer Week, featuring tastings and brewery tours across the city from November 1-10.
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Foodies should not miss the San Diego Wine & Food Festival, running from November 3-10, showcasing top wineries and local culinary talent.
Dia de los Muertos Celebrations
Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a vibrant and deeply cultural celebration that honors lost loved ones. This year, the celebrations in the Gaslamp district will take place on November 2 and 3, marking the 14th year of this event. The district will be buzzing with free music, food, and a plethora of cultural activities.
The Gaslamp Promenade will be transformed with festive decorations, artisan vendors, and a variety of dining options. Activities for the whole family include live music, street performances, face painting, and artisan craft areas for children. It’s a chance to immerse yourself in the rich traditions of Dia de los Muertos while enjoying some authentic Mexican food.
In Chula Vista, the celebrations are equally lively, featuring a Catrin and Catrina contest, music, dancing, a lowrider car show, and an ofrenda competition. Local artisans will be showcasing their crafts, and there will be plenty of festive food and drinks to enjoy. This event truly captures the essence of Dia de los Muertos, providing a space for the community to come together and honor those who have passed.
These celebrations are a beautiful reminder of the importance of remembering and honoring our lost loved ones. The entire city comes alive with cultural performances and holiday treats that bring everyone together in a shared experience of remembrance and joy.
San Diego Beer Week
San Diego Beer Week is a must-attend event for craft beer enthusiasts. Taking place from November 1-10, this week-long celebration features craft beer tastings, brewery tours, and special releases. With a color-coded calendar, it’s easy to plan your visit and make the most of the numerous San Diego events happening across the city.
Popular neighborhoods like Miramar, North Park, Little Italy, and East Village are hotspots for brewery trails. Major breweries such as Modern Times, Ballast Point, and Stone Brewing offer special releases during this week, making it an exciting time to explore San Diego’s rich craft beer culture.
One of the highlights this year is the grand opening celebration of Weir Beer Company, featuring food and music. It’s a perfect example of how San Diego Beer Week fosters community connections between brewers and patrons, enhancing the local craft beer scene.
So, whether you’re a seasoned beer lover or just curious to try something new, San Diego Beer Week is the perfect opportunity to dive into the city’s thriving craft beer culture. Cheers to a week of great brews and good times!
Fleet Week San Diego
https://www.sandiego.com/blog/post/san-diego-fleet-week-2024/, running from November 1-11, is a time to honor and celebrate the men and women of the U.S. Navy and Coast Guard. Key activities include public ship tours of U.S. Navy and coast guard ship tours from November 8-11, and the ‘Meet the Fleet’ event on November 2 at Naval Base San Diego.
One of the standout features of Fleet Week is the Innovation Zone, open to the public on November 7, showcasing the latest in military technology and innovations. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the future of defense and technology, sure to captivate visitors of all ages.
Don’t miss the Military Family Day event on November 10, providing entertainment and activities specifically for military families. Fleet Week San Diego is a heartfelt tribute to our servicemen and women, offering a range of engaging activities and events for everyone to enjoy.
San Diego Wine & Food Festival
Image by Edsel Quern
Foodies and wine lovers, rejoice! The San Diego Wine & Food Festival, running from November 3-10, is a culinary extravaganza you won’t want to miss. This festival features hundreds of wineries, local culinary legends, and culminates in a Grand Tasting Finale at Embarcadero.
From pinot noir to cabernet sauvignon, you’ll find a wide variety of wines from both domestic and international wineries. It’s a chance to savor the best of the best while enjoying the beautiful San Diego Bay backdrop.
Local culinary legends will be showcasing their talents, making this festival a true celebration of food and drink. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just love good food, the San Diego Wine & Food Festival is the perfect way to indulge your senses.
Veterans Day Events
San Diego takes great pride in honoring its veterans, and Veterans Day events from November 9-11 are a testament to that respect. The highlight is the San Diego Veterans Day Parade on November 11, starting at 10:00 a.m. Thousands of attendees, including residents and community leaders, line the parade route to pay tribute to the brave men and women who have served. San Diego’s commitment to honoring these heroes is evident in the community’s participation.
The parade features musical entertainment throughout the day, adding a lively atmosphere to this solemn occasion. Another notable event is the Veterans Day Boat Parade in San Diego Bay, also on November 11. It’s a beautiful sight as boats adorned with flags and decorations sail across the bay in honor of our veterans.
These events are a heartfelt way to show appreciation and respect for those who have sacrificed so much for our country. Also, check out those deals and discounts https://www.sandiego.com/blog/post/veterans-day-2024-discounts-and-deals/.
Seaworld's Christmas Celebration
SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration is the perfect way to kick off the holiday season. Running from November 15 to January 5, this festive event transforms SeaWorld into a winter wonderland. Visitors can enjoy seasonal shopping, festive food and drinks, and stunning live shows.
New Christmas shows, meet-and-greets with Santa and Rudolph, and magical snowfall are just a few of the highlights. The celebration also features a cheerful Christmas parade and beautiful decorations, including San Diego’s Christmas tree and a music-activated light tunnel.
Savor seasonal treats like candy-topped hot chocolate while enjoying the festive atmosphere. SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration offers a unique and magical holiday experience for the whole family, look for special pricing available online.
Belmont Park Winter Wonder
Belmont Park’s Winter Wonder, running from November 16 to January 5, is a holiday delight for all ages. Guests can enjoy a variety of holiday-themed rides and attractions, making it a must-visit spot during the holiday season.
In addition to the rides, there are seasonal treats and festive entertainment that add to the holiday magic. Belmont Park’s Winter Wonder is a fun and festive way to celebrate the holidays with family and friends.
Holidays at LEGOLAND
Image by iStockphoto Ivan_Sabo
LEGOLAND California Carlsbad, CA holiday celebration is a family favorite, running from November 23 to January 5. One of the main attractions is the giant LEGO Christmas tree, built from over 364,000 bricks. It’s a spectacular sight that makes for great photo opportunities with holiday LEGO characters.
Live holiday shows, including ‘Jingle Jamboree’ and ‘Benny’s Ugly Sweater Party,’ add to the festive fun. Fireworks displays on select dates light up the sky, making the holiday season even more magical.
Families can also meet LEGO Santa and mail letters to him, creating cherished holiday memories. Holidays at LEGOLAND is a perfect blend of festive activities and imaginative play, making it a must-visit during the holiday season.
Thanksgiving Activities
Thanksgiving in San Diego is a time for family, fun, and food. Enjoy outdoor activities like days at the beach, shopping at outdoor malls, and nights out at rooftop bars. Traditional activities include a Thanksgiving feast, turkey trot, pro football game, and volunteering opportunities while visiting San Diego.
Thanksgiving is celebrated on November 28, and there are plenty of dining options to choose from. Restaurants like Rumorosa and Vessel Restaurant + Bar offer festive meals, while several others provide Thanksgiving dinner buffets.
The Black Mountain Turkey Burner Trail Race, scheduled for November 30, is a great option for those looking to burn off some holiday calories. San Diego offers a variety of ways to celebrate Thanksgiving, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Rady Children's Invitational
The 2024 Rady Children’s Invitational is set to take place on November 28-29 at LionTree Arena on the UC San Diego campus. This basketball tournament will feature teams like NC State, Ole Miss, Purdue, and BYU, making it an exciting event for sports fans.
The championship game is scheduled for 3 PM PST, and all tickets for the event have already sold out. The Rady Children’s Invitational is quickly becoming a beloved annual event, drawing fans from all over.
Julian Country Christmas and Tree Lighting
The Julian, CA Country Christmas and Tree Lighting event is a charming way to kick off the holiday season. Taking place on November 30 from noon to 8 p.m., this free event is held in Julian Town Square. The highlight is the Christmas Tree Lighting, which brings the community together in festive cheer.
Families can meet Santa and enjoy the small-town holiday magic. Julian’s Country Christmas is a heartwarming event that captures the spirit of the season.
Candlelight Concerts
For a unique and intimate musical experience, the Candlelight Concerts are a must-attend. These concerts aim to create unforgettable experiences by performing music in beautiful candlelit settings. The atmosphere is nothing short of magical, making each performance a special event.
One of the highlights this November is a series of military band concerts, providing stirring performances in honor of Veterans Day. Additionally, on November 15, there will be concerts featuring the timeless music of Queen and The Beatles. It’s a fantastic opportunity to hear your favorite songs in a whole new light.
Later in the month, neo-soul favorites, including hits by Prince and Childish Gambino, will be performed on November 22. These concerts showcase a variety of genres, ensuring there’s something for every music lover. The Candlelight Concerts are a beautiful way to enjoy live music during the holiday season.
Carlsbad Village Faire
The Carlsbad Village Faire is one of the largest street fairs in San Diego County. Happening on November 3 from 8 AM to 4 PM, this annual event features over 900 vendors. You’ll find a wide variety of items, including crafts, clothing, antiques, and more.
It’s a perfect place to start your holiday shopping, with unique gifts you won’t find anywhere else. The festive atmosphere, combined with local vendors and delicious food, makes the Carlsbad Village Faire a delightful way to spend a Sunday in San Diego.
Skating by the Sea
Image by Kevin Koeppen Photography
Skating by the Sea at Hotel del Coronado is a one-of-a-kind experience. Running from November 21 to January 5, this seaside ice skating rink is set on the beachfront Windsor Lawn, offering stunning views of the pacific and coronado beach. It’s a truly unique way to enjoy the holiday season in San Diego.
Each skating session lasts 90 minutes, and skate rentals are included in the ticket price. The proceeds from the event support Make-A-Wish® San Diego, making it a fun activity with a charitable cause.
For a little extra holiday magic, the Frostbite Lounge offers amenities like fire pits and holiday-themed drinks. Skating by the Sea combines the joy of ice skating with the beauty of the beach, creating an unforgettable holiday experience.
Encinitas Holiday Street Fair
The Encinitas Holiday Street Fair is a beloved community event that takes place on November 24 from 9 AM to 5 PM along the 101 Coast Highway. With over 450 vendors, it’s a fantastic place to do some seasonal shopping and find unique holiday gifts.
Parking is available at multiple locations, including City Hall and Moonlight Beach, making it convenient for visitors. The fair promotes community spirit and showcases local artisans, creating a festive atmosphere that everyone can enjoy.
In addition to the vendors, there’s a beer garden with live music acts scheduled throughout the day. Local children’s groups and musicians will also perform on the community stage, adding to the holiday cheer. The Encinitas Holiday Street Fair is a great way to kick off the holiday season with family and friends.
Santa Train North Pole Limited
Get ready for the Santa Train North Pole Limited! It’s time to hop on board! This festive train ride operates on Fridays and Saturdays from November 29 to December 21, offering a magical holiday experience for the whole family. Passengers are encouraged to arrive 30 minutes early to collect tickets and enjoy the festive environment at the Campo Depot.
The 90-minute train ride includes holiday sing-alongs, storytelling, and treats like hot chocolate and cookies. Santa and his wife make special appearances, adding to the holiday magic. It’s an enchanting way to celebrate the season with loved ones.
Ticket prices vary depending on the class of service, with children’s tickets starting at $15. Hosted by the Pacific Southwest Railway Museum, this popular event often sells out, so be sure to get your tickets early.
Dr. Seuss' How The Grinch Stole Christmas!
Experience the beloved musical ‘How The Grinch Stole Christmas!’ at the Old Globe Theatre from November 6 to December 31. Based on Dr. Seuss’s classic book, this production is now in its 27th consecutive year and has become a holiday tradition for many.
The musical features popular songs like ‘You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch’ and ‘Welcome, Christmas’. Performances last approximately 80 minutes without an intermission, and children under three years old can only attend the 10:30 a.m. shows and must sit on a parent’s lap.
It’s a heartwarming and entertaining way to get into the holiday spirit.
San Diego Asian Film Festival
The San Diego Asian Film Festival is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, running from November 7-16. This prestigious film festival showcases over 170 films from more than 35 countries, offering a diverse range of stories and perspectives. Screenings will take place at Regal Edwards Mira Mesa, as well as the San Diego Natural History Museum and Museum of Photographic Arts.
This year’s festival includes 22 film premieres, 2 world premieres, and 12 West Coast premieres, making it a significant event in the film world. It’s a fantastic opportunity to see groundbreaking films and discover new talent.
In addition to the films, the festival features over 30 Q&A sessions with filmmakers, providing an opportunity for direct audience engagement. The San Diego Asian Film Festival is a must-attend event for film enthusiasts and anyone interested in exploring diverse narratives.
Summary
November in San Diego is packed with an incredible array of activities and events. From the cultural richness of Dia de los Muertos celebrations to the festive magic of holiday events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. San Diego Beer Week and the San Diego Wine & Food Festival offer unique culinary experiences, while Veterans Day events honor those who have served.
The holiday season kicks off with SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration, Belmont Park Winter Wonder, and Holidays at LEGOLAND, providing endless fun for families. Thanksgiving activities, the Rady Children’s Invitational, and charming events like the Julian Country Christmas and Tree Lighting add to the festive cheer.
Whether you’re a local or visiting San Diego, November is the perfect time to explore the city’s vibrant culture and diverse events. So, mark your calendars and get ready to make the most of this exciting month.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Dia de los Muertos celebration in San Diego?
Dia de los Muertos in San Diego is celebrated on November 2 and 3. Mark your calendars!
What are the dates for San Diego Beer Week 2024?
San Diego Beer Week is happening from November 1-10, 2024. Mark your calendar for some great brews!
Where can I experience seaside ice skating in San Diego?
You can enjoy seaside ice skating at the Hotel del Coronado's Skating by the Sea, which typically runs from late November to early January. It's a fun spot to get your skate on with ocean views!
What is the Rady Children's Invitational?
The Rady Children's Invitational is a basketball tournament happening at LionTree Arena, UC San Diego, on November 28-29, 2024. It’s a great chance to catch some exciting hoops!
When does the San Diego Asian Film Festival take place?
The San Diego Asian Film Festival is happening from November 7-16, 2024. Mark your calendar!
