From American Cellist Yo-Yo Ma to the Iconic Red Hot Chili Peppers, These Shows Are Bound to be Epic
While San Diego is prized for its shimmering coastline, innovative dining and vibrant atmosphere, it is also home to some of the best live music venues in Southern California. Hosting everything from major music festivals with A-list artists to local talent at popular nightlife hotspots, this buzzing city prides itself on its ability to entertain visitors and locals year-round. And with the winter months coming to a close and a sun-soaked spring just around the corner, San Diego nightlife is ramping up by welcoming a whole host of live music events that can’t be missed. Here are eight concerts and festivals in San Diego that should be on your radar this spring.
Zakir Hussain
Date: March 18
Location: Balboa Theatre
Considered one of the most influential world music artists of our time, GRAMMY® award-winning Zakir Hussain has taken the Indian tabla beyond the framework of traditional Indian music. After multiple tours in both Europe and the Americas, this March, Hussain is welcoming an ensemble of world-class Indian musicians and performers to San Diego for a truly unforgettable musical experience at the historic Balboa Theatre.
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Yo-Yo Ma & Kathryn Stott
Date: April 6
Location: San Diego Civic Theatre
As a featured musical performer in La Jolla Music Society’s Recital Series, world-famous cellist Yo-Yo Ma alongside longtime collaborator and pianist Kathryn Stott look to continue spreading his message of hope, joy and love by performing live in San Diego this spring. Perhaps the most famous classical musician of his era, Yo-Yo Ma’s talent and dedication is unparalleled, and with Stott situated at the piano alongside him, this performance is sure to dazzle and amaze. So whether you are a longtime fan of classical music or seeking a newfound appreciation for the genre, a ticket to this show is worth every cent.
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater
Dates: April 4-5
Location: San Diego Civic Theatre
Designated a vital piece of American culture by congress in 2008, the Alvin Ailey Dance Theatre is so much more than a dance troupe. Celebrating and drawing attention to African American culture since 1958, Alvin Ailey transcends the genre of dance as director Robert Battle continues to imbue powerful storytelling, visionary choreography and breathtaking design into what can only be described as a moving emotional and intellectual experience. Performing his acclaimed work, Revelations, this Spring, the San Diego Civic Theatre offers residents and visitors an opportunity to experience the art of dance as they’ve never seen it before.
Chucho Valdés Quartet
Date: April 1
Location: The Conrad
On April 1, the great Cuban pianist and composer Chucho Valdés will take center stage at The Conrad, and you won’t want to miss it! Valdés has become one of the most influential figures in modern Afro-Cuban jazz and has won seven GRAMMY® and four Latin GRAMMY® Awards over the course of his career. His performances seamlessly blend aspects of jazz, folk and classical with Cuban rhythms to create a sensory musical experience rooted in culture and artistry. Don’t miss this sure-to-be spectacular show at The Conrad in La Jolla this spring.
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KSON CountryFest
Date: March 25
Location: Petco Park
For all lovers of country music, dust off those boots and get ready for one of San Diego’s most beloved musical events: KSON CountryFest. Hosted at the beautiful Petco Park stadium in East Village, this evening will spotlight acclaimed artists, such as Lee Brice, Parmalee, and Easton Corbin, for a night of drinks, dancing and, of course, country music. KSON 103.7 and Live Nation have teamed up to bring visitors an unparalleled seat to some of the genre’s hottest stars, making this a must-attend event for those looking for a night of two-stepping under the stars.
SZA
Date: March 13
Location: Viejas Arena
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This spring, Grammy Award nominee and rising RnB legend SZA takes center stage at one of San Diego’s biggest venues, Viejas Arena. Selling out stadiums since her debut in 2017, SZA has taken the country by storm with her rich, velvety vocals and innovative take on the RnB sound. And now, just on the heels of her second studio album, SOS, the acclaimed performer is making San Diego her next stop on tour. Grab your tickets quickly, though, as they won’t last long.
Tequila & Taco Music Festival
Dates: April 22-23
Location: Petco Park
Due to popular demand, the Tequila & Taco Music Festival is returning to San Diego this spring for two days of all things tacos, tequila, and music. With special guest Lil Jon set to perform as well as several other notable live performers, this festival of food and drink is sure to be a blast. Get ready to sample from a wide array of vendors serving up some of the best tacos, craft beer, and cocktails in the state! This event is sure to be nothing short of a two-day party.
Red Hot Chili Peppers
Date: May 12
Location: Snapdragon Stadium
Rounding our list is none other than the critically acclaimed and world-renowned rock group, Red Hot Chili Peppers, performing live this May at Snapdragon Stadium. Being adored by both fans and critics alike, the Red Hot Chili Peppers continue to be one of the most played bands in all of music. With countless hits and a huge fan base, this concert is sure to be a marquee event on the city’s calendar, elevated only by the fact that it will be taking place at the all-new Snapdragon Stadium, built in 2022 and deemed one of the premier open-air arenas in all of SoCal.
