TGI Weekend! The summer rolls on in San Diego with fun outdoor activities – from movies and concerts to horse racing, an auto show, festivals and a little live-action history lesson. Get up. Get out. Play!
Thursday, July 27
Nighttime Zoo
9 a.m. to 9 p.m., San Diego Zoo
The San Diego Zoo has extended its hours to 9 p.m. now through Sept. 4 so families can enjoy the annual “Nighttime Zoo.” Visitors can hear live music, check out special keeper talks and entertainment, and end the night by watching a parade of elaborate animal puppets. Nighttime Zoo activities are included with paid admission or zoo memberships.
Del Mar Racing
12 p.m., Del Mar Racetrack
Still “cool as ever,” the Del Mar Racing season returns to the seaside track in the North County. Gates open daily at 12 p.m., with the first post at 2 p.m. The season runs through Sept. 4, with track closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Once again, the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club’s racing season will also include concerts and other fun festivities. General admission is between $6 and $10.
Liberty Public Farmers Market
2 p.m. to 7 p.m., Near Liberty Public Market at Liberty Station
Liberty Station’s brand-new weekly farmers market goes down every Thursday near Liberty Public Market, off Perry Road. The farmers market features more than 60 vendors, from local produce growers and specialty food purveyors, to artisan gift merchants. While you peruse vendors, enjoy live performances from local musicians.
Music in the Gardens: Raelee Nikole
5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens - Escondido
Enjoy craft beer, live music and lush gardens at Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens in Escondido (1999 Citracado Parkway) during the brewery’s summer music series. All season long, patrons can groove to all kinds of musical styles – from folk and soul, to rock and pop. On July 27, Raelee Nikole takes the stage.
California Dreaming Beach Party
6 p.m. to 9 p.m., The Bahia Hotel
Every Thursday this summer – tonight through Aug. 31 – The Bahia Hotel in Mission Bay will host its “California Dreaming” Beach Party, which includes a clam bake, BBQ, brews and live beachside concert performed by The Mar Dels. Tickets are $49 for adults and $26 for kids ages 5 to 12; children age 5 and under get in free. This is summer, SoCal style, that’s for sure.
San Diego Padres vs. New York Mets
6:10 p.m., Petco Park
The San Diego Padres wrap up their series against the New York Mets Thursday night at Petco Park. Tickets start at $15.
Santee Summer Concerts
6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., Town Center Community Park East
There will be a “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Going On” in Santee Thursday night as James Kruk & The Big Boss Men – an Elvis Tribute band – take the stage for the community’s weekly summer concert series. The event is free; there will be food trucks on-hand selling dinner and family-friendly activities for the kids.
Cardiff Music Nights
6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., Pappalecco in Cardiff-by-the-Sea
Italian eatery Pappalecco is hosting “Cardiff Music Nights” this summer at its Cardiff-by-the-Sea location (2101 San Elijo Ave.), showcasing free concerts each Thursday evening. Guests can enjoy the tunes al fresco as if they were in Italy. A different artist is featured each week.
Sunset Poolside Jazz Series
6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., The Westgate Hotel
Downtown’s Westgate Hotel continues its “Sunset Poolside Jazz Series,” a summertime series featuring a different performance every Thursday night, through Aug. 31, from Southern California’s finest jazz talents at the hotel’s pool. The event includes drinks and appetizers, available for purchase. Attendees are asked to spend at least $25 on drinks and food; the entertainment is free. The Steph Johnson Trio performs on July 27.
Lionel Richie with Mariah Carey
7 p.m., Viejas Arena
Music legends Lionel Richie and Mariah Carey join forces for this mega-ticket Thursday night at Viejas Arena. The concert was originally scheduled to take place in May but had to be rescheduled so Richie could recover from a knee procedure. Now, he'll have the audience dancing "All Night Long."
Bush
7:30 p.m., Cal Coast Credit Union Open Air Theatre at SDSU
Known for a string of hits in the mid-90s, rockers Bush will play the Cal Coast Credit Union Open Air Theatre Thursday night. Tickets start at $25
Book of Mormon
7:30 p.m., San Diego Civic Theatre
Anyone who has seen this show will tell you: you can't miss "Book of Mormon." The hilarious musical comedy - called "the best musical of this century" by the New York Times - is written by "South Park" creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone and "Frozen" composer Bobby Lopez. The show follows mismatched missionaries sent to Uganda to spread the word of God. Regardless of whether or not you saw it the first time around - it's worth seeing again, and again (and then listening to the soundtrack again and again). The show runs at the San Diego Civic Theatre from July 25 to July 30.
Flicks at the Fountain
8 p.m., Carlsbad Village
Every Thursday night in July and August, the Carlsbad Village Association will host a free outdoor movie screening behind the famous fountain at the corner of State Street and Grand Avenue. The community’s annual summer movie series begins Thursday night with a screening of “Pete's Dragon.” Bring blankets, low-back lawn chairs, a picnic and enjoy the entertainment under the stars. Films begin at dusk – between 7:45 p.m. and 8 p.m.; seating starts at 6 p.m.
Latin Thursdays
9 p.m., Harrah’s Resort Southern California
Enjoy live Latin music at Harrah’s Resort Southern California every Thursday night this month at this 21+ fiesta. The shows cost $10 and are available at the door.
Friday, July 28
Coronado’s Free Summer Shuttle Service
8:57 a.m. to 9:42 p.m. (shuttle service times), Coronado
Coronado’s free summer shuttle service is back, running now through Labor Day. The service aims to make it easier for locals and visitors to cruise around Coronado and catch a ride to popular spots during the busy summer months. Hop on!
Violent Femmes
4 p.m., Del Mar Race Track
The Violent Femmes bring their cool, quirky sound to the Seaside Stage this week at the Del Mar Race Track. The Friday evening concert starts right after the final race. The show is for fans age 18 and up; general admission to the show is free with paid admission into the track.
Food Truck Friday
4 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Plaza de Panama at Balboa Park
Balboa Park’s “Food Truck Friday” is a summertime event that brings more than a dozen food trucks to the Plaza de Panama and El Prado walkway every Friday evening through Sept. 29. As you grab some food, you’ll also be able to enjoy live entertainment at the park. Stick around and check out “Balboa Park After Dark” (see below), happening simultaneously at the park Friday nights this summer. On July 28, the event will be extra festive, as it celebrates the theme "Holly Jolly July" -- a preview of the park's big December Nights event happening in early December. The evening will include a visit from Santa Claus, festive tunes and a sneak peek of what to expect when the holiday event returns to Balboa Park.
Cruisin’ Grand Escondido
5 p.m. to 9 p.m., Downtown Escondido(235 East Grand Ave.)
Downtown Escondido’s free, weekly vintage car show continues, running every Friday night through Sept. 29. Cruisin’ Grand Escondido takes over historic Grand Avenue, with more than 500 cool cars lining the streets. The event, now in its 18th year, draws thousands of attendees. Each Friday night, awards are given to the most impressive pre-1973 American-made cars. Musical entertainment includes performances across four stages: Broadway; Juniper Street; Maple Street Plaza; Kalmia & Grand.
Balboa Park After Dark
5 p.m. to 8 p.m., Balboa Park
Balboa Park’s sundown summertime program continues, with eight museums offering extended late-night hours every Friday through Sept. 29. Some museums are even offering $5 admission deals. Food vendors and live entertainment will also fill the landmark during this “Balboa Park After Dark” series.
Sunset Luau on the Bay
6 p.m., Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa
Dreaming of Hawaii? The Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa in Pacific Beach hosts its 16th season of Sunset Luaus on the shores of Mission Bay, a Friday night event complete with tropical drinks, Polynesian cuisine, and authentic island-inspired music and dancing. The Sunset Luaus runs through Sept. 1; tickets are $69 for adults, $32 for kids ages 5 to 12, and free for little one 5 and younger.
Summer Movies in the Park
6 p.m. to 10 p.m., Multiple Locations
San Diego’s fun and free “Summer Movies in the Park” presents family-friendly movies Friday night at several locations across the county, usually from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. This week, the lineup includes: "The LEGO Batman Movie" at Balboa Park's Morley Field; "The Secret Life of Pets" at Hourglass Field Community Park; "Moana" at Lincoln Acres County Park; "The Wizard of Oz" at Old Poway Park.
Bollywood by the Sea
6 p.m. to 9 p.m., The Headquarters at Seaport
The courtyard at The Headquarters will be filled with music Friday for Bollywood by the Sea, a free event featuring Bollywood performances and dance lessons. The fun is open to all ages; no experience necessary.
Counting Crows & Matchbox Twenty
7 p.m., Mattress Firm Amphitheatre
Hello there, 1990s. The Counting Crows and Matchbox Twenty pair up for this show in Chula Vista Friday night. You’ll be singing “Mr. Jones” and “3 AM” in no time. Tickets start at $32.
Puttin’ Down Roots: Veracruz Blues
7 p.m., California Center for the Arts Escondido
The California Center for the Arts in Escondido is hosting a series of concerts each Friday night at Lyric Court, and this week, the soulful, Afro-Latino group Veracruz Blues takes the spotlight. The music series focuses on the multicultural roots of American music and, each week, attendees can learn about various styles of music from local scholars and artists. The event is free; there’s also a dance floor for those who are really feeling the music.
San Diego Padres vs. Pittsburgh Pirates
7:10 p.m., Petco Park
The Padres begin their series against the Pirates Friday night at Petco Park. Tickets start at $17. It’s also “Party in the Park” night, which means there will be a pre-game concert at Park at the Park beginning at 5:30 p.m., plus drink specials and games. On the mic this time: country pop singer Jessie James Decker.
Marlon Wayans
7:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m., The American Comedy Co.
Actor, producer, comedian, writer and film director Marlon Wayans will headline the stage at The American Comedy Co. all weekend – Thursday through Sunday. Catch his stand-up act at 7:30 p.m. or 9:30 p.m. on Friday; tickets to the 21+ performance cost $35.
Saturday, July 29
DayBreak: Doughnuts Day
8 a.m., Del Mar Racetrack
It can be difficult to wake up early on a Saturday morning. But here’s something to help get you out of bed this Saturday morning: DayBreak at the racetrack. Grab some breakfast while watching morning workouts at the racetrack. Horse racing fanatics will also be able to pick the brain of former jockey and event announcer Jeff Bloom. Bloom will be there answering questions. Tickets cost $10.
Imperial Beach Surf Dog Competition
8 a.m., Imperial Beach Pier
What’s better than spending your Saturday morning with a bunch of dogs? Seeing those dogs rock out on surfboards, of course! Head down to Imperial Beach for the annual Beach Surf Dog Competition, where dozens of pups show you their skills. There will be a beer garden, food trucks and more during the event. Plus, if you furry friend wants to keep their paws on dry land, bring them along anyway and have them watch.
Snorkel with the Leopard Sharks
8 a.m., Scripps Institution of Oceanography
It’s a unique experience you don’t want to miss. Join aquarium naturalists as they head out off of the La Jolla coast to snorkel with leopard sharks in their natural habitat. To participate, you must have intermediate knowledge of swimming and have previous snorkeling experience. Participants must be 10 years or older and must supply their own gear. Tickets start at $25.
Chaparral Checklist
9:30 a.m., Mission Trails Regional Park, Visitor’s Center
Mission Trails Regional Park guides will lead hikers through the park on this morning walk, teaching them how to identify iconic plants and teaching them more about our coastal sage environment.
Vista BBQ Classic
11 a.m., Historic Downtown Vista Village
Barbecue fans, rejoice! More than 40 award-winning BBQ teams will be meeting up in Vista this Saturday for this festival, back for its ninth year. Chefs will start early and spend up to 24 hours seasoning, smoking and grilling their choice cuts of meat. The winner takes home a $10,000 cash prize and trophies. In addition to trying out lots of yummy BBQ, the event features a marketplace, a whiskey and cigar saloon, the second annual Miss Q Classic pageant and more. Admission is free; to buy sampling packets, head to the event page.
Gourmet Food Truck Festival
12 p.m., Del Mar Fairgrounds
You might want to skip breakfast if you’re heading over to the Food Truck Festival at the Racetrack this Saturday. Dozens of Southern California’s most popular food trucks will park right by the racetrack, opening their doors and serving delicious food. Paid racetrack admission will get you into the food truck area for free.
Stagecoach Days: Soldiers & Citizens
12 p.m. to 4 p.m., Old Town San Diego State Historic Park
Old Town San Diego continues its summer “Stagecoach Days” celebration with more historical demonstrations in the plaza, in the heart of the park. On Saturday, the “Soldiers & Citizens” theme will celebrate the military's role in San Diego, focusing on the Mexican-American War and the soldiers of many cultures that came to San Diego very early on. The day includes a chance to see historic military uniforms, weapons and hear the stories of these soldiers. The event is free.
Extreme AutoFest
3 p.m. to 10 p.m., Qualcomm Stadium
Gearheads, this one’s for you. Extreme AutoFest, a large-scale automotive show, will boast hundreds of tricked-out show cars, SUVs, trucks, and motorcycles from around the world, all competing for cash, prizes and, of course, bragging rights on the streets. Tickets are $25 for adults and $12 for kids ages 6 to 12; kids under 5 get in free.
San Diego Sights and Sips
5:30 p.m., Hornblower Cruises and Events
Sunshine, sailing, and cocktails come together on this Hornblower cocktail cruise. Hope on board for a two-hour cruise with champagne, light Hors oeuvres and more as you enjoy a beautiful view of the Bay during sunset. The boat leaves at 6 p.m. Tickets start at $37.50 per person.
Spirits at Sunset: Summer Cocktail Cruise
5:30 p.m., Flagship Cruises and Events
Treat yourself to a nice evening on the Bay this Saturday for the all-new Spirits at Sunset cruise. Board an 82-foot yacht for an evening for 360 views of the beautiful San Diego and bay and your favorite cocktails. Tickets start at $42.50.
Cinema Under The Stars: “O Brother, Where Art Thou?”
8 p.m., Cinema Under the Stars in Mission Hills
Watch a movie under the moonlight at the outdoor theater in Mission Hills (4040 Goldfinch St.). On the venue’s screening schedule this weekend: the classic “O Brother, Where Art Thou?”, the Coen Brothers’ movie about a trio of con men who escape from a chain gang to seek a mysterious treasure. The film plays at 8 p.m. both Saturday and Sunday.
Little Italy Summer Film Festival
8 p.m., Amici Park
Every Saturday night this summer, stop by San Diego’s Little Italy Amici Park and enjoy a series of Italian films with English subtitles. The screenings start at 8 p.m. The entry fee is a $5 donation.
Sunday, July 30
Taste of the Turf Club
11 a.m., Del Mar Racetrack
The opening weekend of the Del Mar Racetrack’s fall season is filled with goodies and fun activities! This Sunday, take a taste of a special menu as you dine at the exclusive Turf Club in Del Mar. Chef Brian Malarkey, one of the city’s most celebrated chefs, will prepare the menu for the morning. Tables are limited. Your $100 ticket will get you turf club admission for the day, a choice of an appetizer, entrée, dessert and bottomless mimosas or champagne. Attendees must comply with Turf Club Dress Code.
Phil’s Big BBQ at the Ballpark
11 a.m., Padres Tailgate Parking Lot
Try some of San Diego’s favorite barbeque, all for a good cause, at this annual event, back for the ninth time right by Petco Park. This large tailgate party will feature live music, local craft beers and more. Plus, your ticket includes admission to the 1:40 p.m. Padres vs. Pittsburgh Pirates game. The BBQ event raises money for Big Brothers Big Sisters, a one-to-one mentoring program for military children. Tickets start at $25.
Yoga Pool Party
11 a.m., Lafayette Hotel
Combine your morning yoga classes with a bit of pool time at this unique #Summerofloveyourself pool party at the Lafayette Hotel. The pool party features vinyasa, paddleboard yoga playtime, acro yoga and plenty of beautiful San Diego sunshine. Tickets start at $20.
Fast Times at Ridgemont High
2 p.m. and 7 p.m., Multiple movie theaters across San Diego County
Head back to class Sunday with a special screening of the 1982 Cameron Crowe cult classic, "Fast Times at Ridgemont High." The movie turns 35 this year and the TCM Big Screen Classics series is bringing it back to the big screen for two days only: July 30 and Aug. 2. Nine movie theaters in San Diego County will offer those screenings (at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.), including La Jolla 12, which is located about six miles from Clairemont High School -- the very campus that inspired Crowe's plot for the coming-of-age flick.
At The Old Place
2 p.m., La Jolla Playhouse
"At The Old Place", written by Rachel Bonds, makes its world premiere at the Playhouse this summer, one of five world premieres at the theater during their 2017-2018 season. The play follows a woman in her mid-40s who returns to her childhood home as she faces her breaking point. The show runs until July 30. Buy tickets here. http://www.lajollaplayhouse.org/at-the-old-place
Guys and Dolls
2 p.m., The Old Globe Theater
This Broadway classic, considered one of the greatest musicals of all time, comes to San Diego's Old Globe Theatre. The show follows Nathan Detroit, New York's infamous game organizer, who makes a bet with a notorious gambler: take mission girl Sarah Brown to dinner in Cuba. The beloved upbeat musical is directed by rising director and choreographer Josh Rhodes, who tells NBC 7 he went back to basics for his fresh take of a classic musical. The show runs until Aug. 13.
Avenue Q
3 p.m., OB Playhouse
A bright-eyed Princeton graduate comes to New York City with big dreams and a small bank account in this Tony Award-winning musical, back by popular demand. Laugh and cry-laugh as you follow the (often slightly raunchy and outrageous) lives of the neighborhood’s residents. The show is billed as a Sesame Streets for adults. Tickets start at $29; its run at the OB Playhouse ends Aug. 13.
Ken Ludwig’s "Robin Hood"
7 p.m., The Old Globe
See the timeless story of hero Robin Hood in a new light: on stage, in this brand-new, Globe-commissioned play by Ken Ledwig. Ludwig, a playwright whose works have appeared on Broadway and London's West End ("Crazy For You," "Lend Me a Tenor," "An American in Paris," and more), comes back to The Globe for this world premiere comedy. Ludwig most recently premiered "Baskerville" at the Globe, bringing Sherlock Holmes to San Diego. The piece promises thrills, romance, laughter and more. The piece runs through Aug. 27.
Free or Cheap Things to Do in San Diego
Times and locations vary
Looking to save some cash, but still enjoy the city? In San Diego, there are still plenty of activities to enjoy for free or on the cheap. Go for a hike at Torrey Pines State Park or Cowles Mountain, stroll Balboa Park, try a new craft brewery, admire the murals of Chicano Park or read a book at a downtown park. Get out there and explore America’s Finest City.
Photo Credit: NBC 7 San Diego