Summer may be winding down, but September in San Diego County is rich with cultural celebrations, festivals and other big events that draw visitors from throughout Southern California.
Here’s a quick guide to some can’t-miss events that are definitely worth the drive, whether it’s a 20-minute hop or a 90-minute haul:
Nissan SuperGirl Surf Pro
Dates: Sept. 20-22, 2024
Location: Oceanside Pier, Oceanside
The Nissan SuperGirl Surf Pro is the world’s largest women’s surf contest and a celebration of female empowerment and athleticism. Held at Oceanside Pier, this three-day event attracts the top female surfers from around the globe, competing for the iconic SuperGirl cape. In addition to the surf competition, the event features live concerts, fitness classes, a female leadership panel, and a festival village with activities like skateboarding, e-sports, and fashion shows. The SuperGirl Surf Pro is free to attend and offers an inspiring weekend of surfing, entertainment, and empowerment for women and girls of all ages. Visit supergirlsurfpro.com.
Cardiff Greek Festival
Dates: Sept. 7-8, 2024
Location: Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church, Cardiff-by-the-Sea
The Cardiff Greek Festival is a beloved annual event that brings the vibrant culture of Greece to the coastal community of Cardiff-by-the-Sea. Hosted by the Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church, the festival offers a weekend of delicious Greek food, lively music and traditional dancing. Visitors can indulge in classic dishes like gyros, moussaka and baklava while enjoying performances by Greek dance troupes in colorful costumes. The event also features a marketplace with handmade crafts, jewelry and other treasures. It’s a wonderful way to experience Greek culture and hospitality without leaving San Diego County. Visit cardiffgreekfestival.com.
FilmOut San Diego LGBTQ Film Festival
Dates: Sept. 12-15, 2024
Location: San Diego Natural History Museum and the San Diego Museum of Art – Balboa Park
FilmOut San Diego, one of the longest-running LGBTQ film festivals in California, is celebrating its 24th edition in 2024. This three-day festival showcases a diverse lineup of LGBTQ+ films, including features, documentaries and shorts from around the world. The festival is a platform for LGBTQ+ filmmakers to share their stories and it fosters a sense of community through cinema. In addition to film screenings, FilmOut offers Q&A sessions with filmmakers, panel discussions and after-parties, making it a premier showcase for LGBTQ+ culture and cinema. Visit filmoutsandiego.com.
Pacific Islander Festival
Dates: Sept. 28-29, 2024
Location: Ski Beach, Mission Bay
The Pacific Islander Festival, held at Ski Beach in Mission Bay, celebrates the rich cultures of the Pacific Islands. This two-day event is a showcase of traditional music, dance, art and food from islands like Hawaii, Samoa, Tahiti and Guam. Visitors can enjoy performances by hula dancers, fire knife dancers and traditional drummers, all set against the backdrop of beautiful Mission Bay. The festival also features a cultural village where attendees can learn about the history and traditions of various Pacific Islander communities. With its family-friendly atmosphere and cultural richness, the Pacific Islander Festival is a fantastic way to experience the diverse heritage of the Pacific Islands. Visit pifasandiego.com.
Miramar Air Show
Dates: Sept. 27-29, 2024
Location: Marine Corps Air Station Miramar
The Miramar Air Show is one of the largest and most exciting air shows in the country, drawing aviation enthusiasts from all over. Held at the Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, this three-day event showcases the incredible skills of military and civilian pilots. The highlight of the show is the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, whose precision and acrobatics never fail to amaze. The air show also features static displays of military aircraft, flight simulators and opportunities to meet pilots and crew members. Whether you’re an aviation buff or just looking to be wowed by impressive displays aeronautic skill and technology, the Miramar Air Show is an event you won’t want to miss. Visit miramarairshow.com.
CRSSD Festival
Dates: Sept. 28-29, 2024
Location: Waterfront Park, Downtown San Diego
For people who love celebrating inventive music and the way it makes them move, the CRSSD Festival is a highlight of San Diego’s September events. Held at Waterfront Park in Downtown San Diego, this two-day electronic music festival features some of the biggest names in house, techno and indie dance music. The festival’s location offers stunning views of the San Diego skyline and the bay, creating a unique atmosphere. CRSSD is known for its laid-back vibe, craft beer offerings nd gourmet food vendors. With multiple stages and a lineup of world-class DJs, CRSSD Festival promises an unforgettable weekend of music and fun. Visit crssdfest.com.
