From Film to Foodie Fests, Weāll See You in SD This Fall
As the sweltering summer sun begins to set and the first cool, crisp fall breeze blows into town, thatās a sure sign that itās time for San Diegoās incredible array of fall festivals. Each year, SoCal residents flock to San Diego, a city known for its never-ending sunshine, to experience a different kind of fun in the form of delicious treats, eats and entertainment. Whether youāre looking to snack on some award-winning pumpkin pie, dance the night away to live music or simply soak up the cozy, autumn vibes, San Diego has you covered. So don your favorite sweater and get ready to experience fall at its finest as we showcase eight incredible fall festivals to attend in San Diego this season.
Coronado Island Film Festival
Date: Nov. 8-12
First on our list is one of San Diegoās most beloved traditionsāthe Coronado Island Film Festival. Just over the bridge from downtown, this charming island has been a Hollywood retreat since filmās golden era. Since 2016, the festival has showcased works from filmmakers of all levels, bringing together artists, fans, and industry leaders. Beyond exclusive screenings, enjoy celebrity meet-and-greets, live music, and prestigious awards ceremonies.
This yearās Leonard Maltin Industry Tribute Awards Gala at Loews Coronado Bay Resort will honor industry icons and rising stars. Whether you’re a dedicated film buff or just looking for an exciting dive into cinema, this fall festival is a must.
Location: Coronado
Beachside Fall Fest at Belmont Park
Date: Sept. 9-Oct. 31
Of course, no matter the season, no visit to San Diego would be complete without spending some time on the sandy shores of one of the cityās renowned boardwalks. Beachside Fall Fest at Belmont Park allows guests to do exactly that while also enjoying some fun fall festivities. The fest runs all the way until Halloween and features everything one could want at an outdoor fall festival: rides, games, pumpkin carving, sweets, treats and more! The fest is the perfect place to bring your kids as well, with free trick-or-treating starting at 5 p.m. on every Sunday in October and an exciting Glow N Float Pumpkin Patch!
Location: Mission Beach
San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival
Date: Nov. 8-12
No fall festival list is complete without a San Diego foodie favorite, and the San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival delivers. Set along the glittering waterfront, this beloved event invites guests to indulge in fine wine and dining. With specialty culinary experiences, exhibits, and tastings, itās a paradise for food lovers. Over 100 local and national chefs, artisans, and industry pros bring their best to the table. This festival guarantees an unforgettable experience that will send your taste buds soaring.
Location: Port of San Diego
Carlsbad Village Street Faire
Date: Nov. 5
For nearly 40 years, the Carlsbad Village Street Faire has welcomed visitors from all over Southern California to experience one of the largest outdoor fairs in the country. Featuring over 900 different vendors showcasing everything from fine art to delicious food and beverages, this biannual event continues to draw crowds into the quaint streets of Carlsbad Village. And after taking one stroll through the rows upon rows of vendors, it is easy to see why. For anyone looking to shop, dine and explore one of the stateās most beloved events and areas, this is the event for you.
Location: Carlsbad
Taste of North Park 2023
Date: Oct. 7
On Saturday, Oct. 7, San Diego is setting aside one of its most beautiful areas for what is sure to be one of the most mouthwatering events of the season. The highly anticipated Taste of North Park is set to welcome in dozens of local restaurants, food trucks, breweries, wineries and artisans as they flood North Parkās main street to offer up an unrivaled array of delicious eats. The event will also feature games, prizes and even live music, making it as entertaining as it is delicious. Be sure to snag your tickets in advance to ensure access to all the tasty treats being offered at this one-of-a-kind showcase.
Location: North Park
11/16
Ocean Beach Oktoberfest
Date: Oct. 6-7
Each year, all across the globe, citizens gather for their cityās annual Oktoberfest, and San Diego is no exception. The Ocean Beach Oktoberfest takes all the beloved elements of this adored Bavarian holiday, including beer, brats and banter, and adds its own unique San Diego flavorādonāt expect any polkas here. This raucous event features everything from concerts to competitions, including the famous pretzel toss event. What ensures to be one of the most exciting and amplified events of the year, Ocean Beachās Oktoberfest is perfect for those looking to dance the night away while sipping on some of the finest ale around.
Location: Ocean Beach
Fall Back Festival
Date: Nov. 5
Looking for fun autumn festivities suited for the whole family? Hosted in San Diegoās iconic Gaslamp Quarter, Fall Back Festival allows guests of all ages to revel in the history and culture of San Diego while also enjoying classic fall faves like their famous pie-eating contest. Featuring fun educational events, exhibitions and activities in and around some of the areaās most historic sites, this event is sure to leave attendees with lasting memories and a heart full of fall spirit.
Location: Gaslamp Quarter
Old Town DĆa de los Muertos
Date: Nov. 2
Finally, no list of fall festivities would be complete without mentioning one of the most iconic events of the season: DĆa de los Muertos. Luckily, Old Town San Diego takes it upon itself to celebrate this important event in Latin culture by annually hosting one of the coolest and most authentic DĆa de los Muertos celebrations around. Explore San Diegoās historic district while also enjoying authentic cuisine, music and events, including the spectacular candlelight procession. So whether you are looking to celebrate yourself or to explore San Diegoās rich and vibrant Hispanic history and culture, this festival is sure to delight.
Location: Old Town
