From SoCal’s largest free two-day music festival to a traditional Oktoberfest to a costumed townie ride, here are the top things to do in San Diego during the last weekend of September:
2013 Adams Avenue Street Fair
Featuring more than 90 musical acts performing on 7 stages, the Adams Avenue Street Fair is Southern California’s largest free two-day musical festival. In addition to the exciting musical lineup, there will be beer gardens, a beer tasting area, giant carnival rides, and more than 300 food, arts and craft vendors selling their specialties throughout the street fair venue.
Where: Adams Avenue Between 32nd and 35th Streets, San Diego, CA 92116
When: September 28-29, 2013
Cost: Free
> Find out more about the 2013 Adams Avenue Street Fair
Oktoberfest in El Cajon
Prost! Come and enjoy authentic German food, a great selection of German beers, traditional folk dancing performances, compete in numerous games and contests, check out vendor and craft booths, and treat the kids to their own Kids’ Zone. Bring your family and friends to El Cajon and experience a real German Oktoberfest!
Where: 1017 South Mollison Avenue, El Cajon, CA 92020
When: September 27-29, 2013
Cost: Adults – $5. Under 21 – Free
> Find out more about Oktoberfest in El Cajon
> Celebrate at Oktoberfests throughout San Diego County
Poway Rodeo
Professional rodeo cowboys from around the country compete in events such as Bareback and Saddle Bronc Riding, Barrel Racing, Tie Down Roping, Steer Wrestling, Team Roping and Bull Riding. Kids will also enjoy the Boot Scramble where they give up one of their shoes and then race to find it on the other side of the arena. There’s also a free dance for everyone 21 and over after the rodeo each night.
Where: Poway Valley Riders Association – 14336 Tierra Bonita, Poway, CA 92064
When: September 27-28, 2013
Cost: $10-$55
> Find out more about the Poway Rodeo
Tour de Fat San Diego
If dressing freaky, riding bikes, listening to bands and drinking beer are things you like, then don’t miss the most fun fundraiser around…Tour de Fat is coming back to town! Each day begins with a giant bicycle parade that weaves through city streets, designed for people of all skill levels; all are welcome and colorful costumes are encouraged. For the rest of the afternoon, the stages heat up with world-class acts and the park becomes a celebration unlike any other!
Where: Golden Hill Park – 2590 Golden Hill Drive, San Diego, CA 92102
When: September 28, 2013
Time: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Cost: Admission and High Fives Free. Donations accepted for Townie Ride
> Find out more about Tour de Fat San Diego
Oceanside Harbor Days
Bring the whole family for two event-filled days of sun, sand and surf! Experience fun activities including the new sandcastle competition, entertainment stage, arts, crafts and food booth areas, Nail ‘n’ Sail competition, military, public safety displays and more.
Where: Oceanside Harbor, Oceanside, CA 92054
When: September 28-29, 2013
Time: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Sunday ends at 5:00 PM
Cost: Free
> Find out more about the Oceanside Harbor Days
Cabrillo Festival
For the 50th year, San Diego will celebrate the day in 1542 when Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo landed on the shore that is now San Diego. Learn more about San Diego’s early history at this fun event for the whole family. In addition to the re-enactment, the festival is filled with educational activities, cultural demonstrations and exciting folkloric performances that bring to life the traditions of the Native American, Mexican, Portuguese and Spanish cultures that are part of the Age of Exploration.
Reminder: You are entering an active military base. Identification and car insurance is required. All individuals are subject to search. All vehicles are expected to adhere to base speed limit of 25 MPH. No talking on cell phones while driving.
Where: Naval Base Point Loma – End of Rosecrans Street, San Diego, CA 92106
When: September 29, 2013
Time: 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM
> Find out more about the Cabrillo Festival
Even More Top Things to Do in San Diego
- Convivio Classic Film Series: It Started in Naples – September 26, 2013
- San Diego Restaurant Week Extension – Through September 27, 2013
- ArtSplash Carlsbad – September 28-29, 2013
- 15th Annual Trolley Dances – September 28-29, 2013
- San Diego Night Market – September 28, 2013
> Browse the San Diego Event Calendar
Know of some other top things to do this weekend? Let everyone know in the comments below.