I feel fortunate to live in a city that experiences more than 300 days of sunshine year-round, but there is something about summer (except for the peculiar phenomenon San Diegan’s call June Gloom) that makes America’s Finest City even brighter. With that said, here are five happenings around San Diego that have piqued my interest and am looking forward to experiencing this summer, in no particular order:
- The Quartyard: Ever since I caught wind of what Eater San Diego describes as a “pop-up marketplace,” I’ve been anxiously awaiting updates for a solid launch date. The space, which will be built out in the burgeoning East Village neighborhood of Downtown will be designed to hold a multitude of events, including live music and perhaps even a beer festival or two as well as serve some local grub. I am hoping the vibe will end up similar to the effortlessly cool, backyard watering places of Rainey Street in Austin.
- Star Trek film screening with live score performed by the San Diego Symphony: While I’m not a Trekkie, I was a a former high school band geek (give it up for my alto sax players) and because of it have developed an affinity for live musical performance. Spending an evening outdoors, tandem to the movie and accompanied by a live orchestra sounds like the ultimate summer treat.
- Dive Dayclub at Harrah’s: Full disclosure, the marketing firm I work for does some work with Harrah’s. With the success of the launch of their new adult pool party concept last year and $160 million facelift I am having recurring visions of cooling off in the lazy river, mojito (or two) in hand. [UPDATE 2018: Dive Day Club is no longer. In it’s place, Splash –– more at the link]
- San Diego International Beer Festival: Blonde, amber, dark – I don’t discriminate. I love beer. Except for you IPA; I just don’t understand you yet. [UPDATE 2018: Oh how far we’ve come from 2014! Since then my beer palate has expanded, how can it not when San Diego is considered one the country’s craft beer capitals?]
- A day at the races in Del Mar: I made this promise to myself last year to no fruition. This year, I am determined to partake in a tradition that’s been making the rounds for more than 50 years. This is also a perfect opportunity to shop for a new dress, and one of those cool hats, so you know, I’ll be hitting two birds with one stone on this one.
Del Mar races (Photo credit: SanDiego.org)
the curious passport 