Celebrate the Fall Season at These Neighborhood Events in San Diego
The season has changed from summer to fall, which isn’t saying much if you live in California. Still, while the weather is a bit cooler, events and festivals are in full swing across San Diego. From film festivals to parades to holiday fairs, celebrate fall festivities in these San Diego neighborhoods.
Downtown San Diego — San Diego International Film Festival
If you want to get a taste of hollywood life with red carpets, film premieres, and celebrity interviews, check out the San Diego International Film Festival running Wednesday, October 10 through Sunday, October 14. Opening night features the film premiere of Can You Ever Forgive Me? starring Melissa McCarthy at the Balboa Theatre. If you purchase a VIP ticket, which range from $400 to $550, it will get you access to the film screenings and panels, the VIP lounge with complimentary drinks and hor d’oeuvres, the red carpet show, and more. And if you want to continue with the festivities, you can check out the official after-party of the film festival at the Omnia Nightclub, which will feature casino gaming tables, live music as well as a DJ, giveaways, a photo booth, and more.
Another Downtown event that’s a bit more laid-back and family-friendly is the San Diego Veterans Day Parade on Saturday, November 10. You’ll want to arrive early and grab a good spot in the Embarcadero so you can view this patriotic event that honors the dedication and contribution of U.S. Veterans from all branches of the military. The parade will include marching formations of Veterans organizations, music bands, civic organizations, decorated floats, and flag processions. The 2018 parade route begins on North Harbor Drive in front of the County Administration Building near the Fountain Plaza at the Waterfront Park, then heads south past the USS Midway, and concludes at the Pacific Highway.
Gaslamp Quarter — Fallback Festival
The 16th Annual Fallback Festival on Sunday, November 4is a historic street fair that the children will surely enjoy. Presented by the Gaslamp Quarter Historical Foundation and taking place in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter, this festival will allow families to step back in time and experience what the Old West was like. The family-friendly fest features pony rides, live entertainment, panning for gold, multiple vendors, and much more. The Fallback Festival is free to the public, although some of the activities will require a small fee. All event proceeds benefit the Gaslamp Quarter Historical Foundation, which provides locals and visitors with museum exhibits, programs, and tours through the Davis-Horton House—the oldest residence in the Gaslamp Quarter.
Encinitas — Encinitas Holiday Street Fair
Kicking off the fall festivities in Downtown Encinitas is the Encinitas Holiday Street Fair on November 18. Since 1989, this one-day neighborhood event has provided the community with plenty of family-friendly activities, attractions, food vendors, and live music entertainment as well as arts, handmade crafts, antiques, and ethnic imports. With more than 450 booths, the Encinitas Holiday Street Fair is a great one-stop-shop for the holidays, just remember to bring your own reusable bag because merchants are not allowed to give out single-use plastic bags. The street fair is located down the center of six blocks along South Coast Highway 101 and two blocks from the Pacific Ocean.
Old Town — Halloween at the Whaley House
There’s no better way to celebrate the fall season than by going to a haunted house. From October 24 to October 31, The Whaley House in Old Town will extend its operating hours to host Halloween at the Whaley House. Learn about the Whaley family’s history and the mystery surrounding their deaths in the Whaley House. Built in 1857 on land that was once used for public hangings, the Whaley House is known as one of the most haunted houses in America. If you’re a skeptic who doesn’t believe in such spooky stories, you’ll still learn about the history of the house. You can also find many 19th century artifacts, including furniture and lighting, as well as mid-19th century Greek Revival architecture.
Downtown El Cajon — 72nd Annual Mother Goose Parade
In Downtown El Cajon, you’ll find the 72nd Annual Mother Goose Parade on Sunday, November 18. This free event starts at 1 p.m. and features a lively procession of colorful and decorated floats, clowns, horses, and marching bands. The Mother Goose Parade is the largest parade in San Diego County and attracts thousands of people. This free and family-fun event is a great way to continue celebrating the holiday season.