Community events in San Diego County: From Santee Street Fair to Vista Strawberry Festival (2024)

Table of Contents
BONITA Genealogy buffs meet at library CARLSBAD Cleanup at Tamarack State Beach Women’s Republican group hosts speakers CHULA VISTA Discounted pet adoption fees at shelter Free car seat safety check CORONADO Youth chess tournament at library ENCINITAS Animal shelter offers reduced fees ESCONDIDO Africa Day celebration set for May 25 Showcase of student Ag projects Library holds monthly book sale Submarine veterans meet May 25 JULIAN Volunteers sought to clear trails LA MESA Parkinson’s Support Group meets May 22 Class on Avoiding Elder Scams OCEANSIDE Surf Museum holds photo awards ceremony Library collecting donated books Retired teachers meet May 20 Last days to see ‘The Science of Surfing’ exhibit Independence Parade accepting applications RANCHO BERNARDO Artist to give workshop at Oasis Center SAN DIEGO Boys to Men Mentoring Network raises $400,000 at fundraiser Fallen Hero Honor Ride Valley Vibes summer concert series kicks off Tijuana-based Chimæra Ensemble in concert Hubbell presentation, exhibit at library La Jolla Music Society presents speaker series San Diego Doggy Dash coming up Meeting focuses on resources to fight hunger Association for Advancement of Science holds conference Free admission for teachers at USS Midway Museum SAN DIEGO COUNTY Upcoming blood drives Feeding San Diego seeks volunteer drivers SAN MARCOS ‘State of Your Community’ event SANTEE Street Fair and Craft Beer Festival City hosts Heroes Golf Classic Tournament Tai Chi group meets Mondays Friday Nights Live continues SOLANA BEACH Playground reopening at La Colonia Park VISTA Annual Strawberry Festival on May 26 Free class on family history research Solutions for Change Academy celebrates graduation ceremony FAQs References

BONITA

Genealogy buffs meet at library

The Chula Vista Genealogical Society education meeting is from 1 to 3 p.m. May 21 in the Bonita-Sunnyside Branch Library Community Room, 4375 Bonita Road. The topic for discussion is immigration records and how they are used in genealogy. Bring your laptop or tablet. You may be able to share with someone.
There will be a chance to have questions answered. Register at chulavistagenealogysociety.wildapricot.org. Walk-ins also welcome.

CARLSBAD

Cleanup at Tamarack State Beach

A beach cleanup is from 9 to 11 a.m. May 25 at Tamarack State Beach near Lifeguard Tower 34, hosted by Surfrider Foundation San Diego County. Heavy rain cancels the event. Registration and event information can be found at sandiego.surfrider.org/events.

Women’s Republican group hosts speakers

The Carlsbad Republican Women Federated group hosts Dan McAllister, San Diego County treasurer-tax collector, and Aaron Byzak, candidate for the Tri-City Healthcare District, Zone 5, at its May 28 meeting at the Holiday Inn, 2725 Palomar Airport Road. McAllister will discuss housing, property tax issues and the local economy, and Byzak will talk about his candidacy. The group will present a donation to Pathway Health Clinic, which provides services for at-risk women in the Tri-City area. Doors open at 10:30 a.m., and the program begins at 11 a.m. Cost is $44; $39 for club members. RSVP and pay by noon May 21 at carlsbadrepublicans.com.

Advertisem*nt

CHULA VISTA

Discounted pet adoption fees at shelter

Chula Vista Animal Services is offering a discounted adoption fee of $25 for all dogs during the month of May. Typically, fees run up to $95. Nearly 150 dogs are looking for homes. The Chula Vista Animal Care Facility, at 130 Beyer Way, has seen a considerable influx of animals lost or in need of care in recent years, and is now facing “an urgent situation.” Adoptable dogs are spayed or neutered, microchipped and vaccinated. The Chula Vista Animal Care Facility is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays, except on Saturday when it is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. It is closed from noon to 1 p.m. for lunch. The Chula Vista shelter is also the home facility for the cities of National City, Imperial Beach and Lemon Grove. Visit chulavistaca.gov/departments/animal-care.

Free car seat safety check

A free car seat installation check by the Chula Vista Fire Department is from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 25 in the Macy’s parking lot at the Chula Vista Center, 555 Broadway. Attendees will learn proper installation from a certified technician. The service is offered in an effort to reduce injury from improperly installed car seats. No registration is needed; just stop by. Visit chulavistaca.gov.

CORONADO

Youth chess tournament at library

The sixth annual San Diego-Azerbaijan Youth Chess Tournament is from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. May 25 at the Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave. The tournament, co-sponsored by the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Global Neighborhood Project, welcomes young chess enthusiasts ages 8-18 to show their chess skills. Participants can register online at the library’s website, coronadolibrary.org. For questions, email Jacosta9918@sdsu.edu.

ENCINITAS

Animal shelter offers reduced fees

The Rancho Coastal Humane Society offers programs that reduce pet adoption fees for people who qualify:

Better with a Buddy – Adopt one cat, kitten, or dog and get the second one (within a year) for just $25. This program does not include puppies.
Two Purr One – Adopt two kittens (within two weeks) and pay the adoption fee for only one of them.

Seniors-For-Seniors – The adoption fee will be paid by a RCHS donor for any senior person (60 years or older) adopting a senior pet (7 years or older).

Pets for Patriots – Adoption fees waived for San Diego veterans. To qualify, apply online before visiting the shelter. Visit www.sdpets.org.

Better with a Buddy: Adopt one cat, kitten or dog and get the second one (within a year) for $25. This program does not include puppies.

Two Purr One: Adopt two kittens (within two weeks) and pay the adoption fee for only one of them.

Seniors-For-Seniors: The adoption fee will be paid by a RCHS donor for any senior person (60 years or older) adopting a senior pet (7 years or older).

Pets for Patriots: Adoption fees waived for San Diego veterans. To qualify, apply online before visiting the shelter.

The shelter is at 389 Requeza St. Visit sdpets.org.

ESCONDIDO

Africa Day celebration set for May 25

An Africa Day celebration is from 2 to 5 p.m. May 25, hosted by Klaman & Co. at Speckle Rock Vineyards, 16138 Highland Valley Road. The event will celebrate the continent’s heritage, featuring curated experiences, educational activities and a showcase of African craftsmanship. Highlights include performances, traditional dances and cuisine from different regions of the continent along with interactive workshops and storytelling about African history, art and traditions. There will be handcrafted textiles, artisanal décor and other handcrafted items. Tickets are $65-$75. Visit klaman.com.

Showcase of student Ag projects

Escondido High School hosts the Cougar Showcase from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. May 30 at 1535 N. Broadway. The evening will include an Ag project showcase, farm tours, plant sales, culinary activities, a car show, student performances, STEM (science, technology, engineering and math), children’s activities and sport activities. The event is free to attend and open to the community. There will be free food for children under 18 while supplies last. There will also be vendors. Registration is recommended at shorturl.at/oxGPR.

Library holds monthly book sale

The Friends of the Escondido Public Library bookstore holds its monthly half-price sale from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 24-25 at the library, 239 S. Kalmia St. All items in the store will be 50 percent off (25-cent minimum), including a wide variety of fiction, nonfiction, collectors books and DVDs and CDs along with an extensive children’s section, with books, DVDs and VHS. Call (760) 839-4832 or visit library.escondido.org.

Submarine veterans meet May 25

The United States Submarine Service Inc. Scamp Base meets at 10 a.m. May 25 at Charlie’s Family Restaurant, 210 N. Ivy St. The veterans group is open to submarine crew who have qualified to wear the warfare specialty pin, the dolphins (Silver or Gold). Others can apply to become associate members. Visit ussvi.org.

JULIAN

Volunteers sought to clear trails

Cuyamaca Rancho State Park’s trails maintenance volunteer unit is looking for volunteers to help with trail maintenance. The group clears trails of brush and fallen tree branches and works on grading on over 80 miles of park trails. Work party days are four hours on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays. Contact the volunteer coordinator at cmcurtis@pacbell.net or (858) 278-3280.

LA MESA

Parkinson’s Support Group meets May 22

The San Diego East County Parkinson’s Support Group meets from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. May 22 at the United Church of Christ of La Mesa, 5940 Kelton Ave. The event is aimed at folks with Parkinson’s disease and their care partners, friends and family. The meeting will include educational information and fun activities. For questions, email altamura13@myyahoo.com.

Class on Avoiding Elder Scams

A free class on Avoiding Elder Scams will be from 2 to 3 p.m. May 21 hosted by Sharp Grossmont Hospital Community Resource Center at Grossmont Healthcare District Conference Center, 9001 Wakarusa St. The class will provide scam prevention tips and will discuss common scams. Free on-site parking is available. Register at (800) 827-4277 or visit sharp.com/classes.

OCEANSIDE

Surf Museum holds photo awards ceremony

The California Surf Museum holds its second J.R. Gurrey, Jr. Photo Competition Awards Presentation at 6 p.m. May 21 at 312 Pier View Way. This photo competition was open to middle and high school students. Winning photos will be on display at the museum through mid-July. This competition is named in honor of A.R. Gurrey Jr. (1874 – c.1927), a surfer and pioneer in surf photography. Admission is free. RSVP to (760) 721-6876. Visit surfmuseum.org.

Library collecting donated books

The Friends of the Oceanside Public Library will host “Bring Your Books Day!” from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. June 1 at its sorting facility, 169 Roymar Road. Community members are asked to bring gently used books, DVDs, CDs, magazines and puzzles. Volunteers will be available for curbside unloading. The Friends group sells the donations at its three bookstores; at the Thursday Oceanside Farmers Market; and through an Amazon store. Proceeds fund library collections, literacy efforts in the Oceanside community and programs for all ages along with technology resources. For a donation location map and other information, visit oplfriends.org.

Retired teachers meet May 20

Division 45 of the California Retired Teachers Association meets from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 20 at the Broken Yolk Cafe, 2434 Vista Way. The speaker will be Chris Ing from MiraCosta College’s Technology Career Institute. The cost for lunch is $20. Call (760) 753-1319.

Last days to see ‘The Science of Surfing’ exhibit

“The Science of Surfing” exhibit is open through May 29 at the California Surf Museum and later will be moved to the San Diego State University Library. The multimedia exhibit shows connections between science and the evolution of modern surfing. The exhibit, aimed at all ages, features wave art and photographs along with videos that follow STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) guidelines and the California Next Generation Science Standards, so the exhibit can be used as a learning tool for students from elementary school and beyond. Through charts, diagrams, photographs, art and video monitors, the exhibit explains tides, types of surf breaks, wave energy and surf conditions along with care of the oceans. The California Surf Museum is at 312 Pier View Way. Visit surfmuseum.org.

Independence Parade accepting applications

The Oceanside Independence Parade is accepting participant applications from businesses, community organizations, nonprofits, car and motorcycle clubs, and elected officials, among others. The 28th annual parade starts at 10 a.m. June 29 at the intersection of North Coast Highway and Wisconsin Avenue and will head north on Coast Highway to Civic Center Drive. More than 100 parade entries are expected to march, roll, walk and drive down historic Highway 101. This year’s parade theme is “Celebrating Our Heritage,” highlighting the community’s cultural roots. June 3 is the deadline for parade applications. To participate or volunteer, visit oceansideparade.com.

RANCHO BERNARDO

Artist to give workshop at Oasis Center

North County Society of Fine Arts hosts guest artist Joanne Newman for a workshop from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. May 25 at the Oasis Center, 17170 Bernardo Center Drive. Newman will demonstrate her techniques for painting acrylic seascapes and landscapes. Fee is $50; $40 for members. Visit ncsfa.org/workshops.

SAN DIEGO

Community events in San Diego County: From Santee Street Fair to Vista Strawberry Festival (1)

From left, attendees Dene Oliver, Stedman Graham, Ken Druck, Joe Sigurdson, Tammy Perry and Attila Tota.

(Alan Hess Photography)

Boys to Men Mentoring Network raises $400,000 at fundraiser

A crowd of nearly 300 gathered for the second Rooted in Resiliency Celebration, hosted by the Boys to Men Mentoring Network at Coasterra on Harbor Island. The event raised nearly half a million dollars to expand mentoring programs to help struggling teen boys. The program featured bestselling author and educator Stedman Graham, whose insights on self-identity and leadership resonated deeply with attendees. The Spring Valley-based nonprofit plans to expand into 10 more schools in the 2024-25 school year and reach more than 1,000 boys throughout San Diego County. Proceeds from the fundraiser play a key role in accomplishing the nonprofit’s goals. Since its founding in 1996, Boys to Men has guided more than 13,000 boys toward reaching their potential through the principles of “Listen, Accept and Encourage.” Currently, the nonprofit empowers 750 boys weekly through in-school and after-school programs at 38 schools in 11 districts across San Diego County. Visit boystomen.org.

Fallen Hero Honor Ride

The fourth annual Bouquet Ride is set for May 25 to honor the memory of Cpl. Gregory “Shortie” Millard and other heroes who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the country. More than 200 cyclists are expected to join the ride, which starts at 9 a.m. from California Bicycle Inc., 7462 LaJolla Blvd., in La Jolla, and heads to Rosecrans National Cemetery in Point Loma. Kevin, Jill and Jason Millard, owners of California Bicycle, are among the Gold Star Families that will be recognized at the event. There will be a laying of wreaths and flowers for all of the fallen, followed by brief comments. The ride time to the site is about one hour. Refreshments will be provided. On May 27, all are invited to the national Memorial Day honor ceremony at Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery, 1700 Cabrillo Memorial Drive. Visit fortrosecransmemorialday.com.

Valley Vibes summer concert series kicks off

The Valley Vibes summer concert series kicks off May 25 and will feature local musicians performing several times a week through Sept. 2 at Mission Valley, an open-air shopping center. Performances including solo, duo and trio groups will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays and from 3 to 6 p.m. Saturdays in the AMC Theatres Court, 1640 Camino Del Rio North. Artists include Jemille Vialet, Marelle, Helena Holleran, Farrah Camu, Johnny Martin, Rachel Jay and Aura Walmer. Admission is free. Visit bit.ly/3WhkmZc.

Tijuana-based Chimæra Ensemble in concert

The Tijuana-based Chimæra Ensemble, a new orchestra of instrumentalists, will perform at 7 p.m. May 25 at the First Unitarian Universalist Church, 4190 Front St., in Hillcrest. The program includes well-known
classical repertoire, along with music by Latin
American composers not typically included in the Western classical canon. Admission is free with registration at frontstreetproductions.org.

Hubbell presentation, exhibit at library

The Ilan Lael Foundation will host a free presentation on “James Hubbell and Sim Bruce Richards: Collaborations” at 6 p.m. May 21 in the San Diego Central Library, 330 Park Blvd., as part of its exhibition “Architecture of Jubilation: The Art and Vision of James Hubbell.” The presentation will be led by Keith York, principal of Modern San Diego and author of “The Sensuous Environment.” York will discuss the decade’s long friendship between acclaimed artist James Hubbell and architect Sim Bruce Richards. Visit ilanlaelfoundation.org.

La Jolla Music Society presents speaker series

La Jolla Music Society and Changemaker present a new Speaker Series featuring renowned changemakers who have pushed the boundaries in their fields and whose work reveals insights about our planet. Speakers will tell their stories live in The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center’s Baker-Baum Concert Hall, 7600 Fay Ave., with photos and video on the big screen. On May 23, at 7 p.m. Terry Virts will give a presentation on “How to Astronaut.” Tickets start at $23. Visit theconrad.org/speaker-series.

San Diego Doggy Dash coming up

The San Diego Doggy Dash is from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. May 25 at Mission Hills Park/Pioneer Park, 1521 Washington Place. Participants can run with a furry friend. Highlights include a 100-foot sprint, agility training, dog grooming, photos, videos and prizes. Tickets are $25-$110. Visit bit.ly/3wCfzqY.

Meeting focuses on resources to fight hunger

The Salvation Army San Diego and San Diego Hunger Coalition will hold a luncheon meeting from noon to 1:30 p.m. May 23 to raise awareness about hunger in the community. The meeting will exploring ways to increase access to nutritional resources locally, such as Calfresh. The meeting is at the Kroc Center in the Community Room, 6845 University Ave. Register at hungerawareness.eventbrite.com.

Association for Advancement of Science holds conference

The nonprofit American Association for the Advancement of Science – Pacific Division, which is more than a century old, will hold its annual conference from June 17-20 at the University of San Diego, Joan B. Kroc Institute for Peace and Justice, 5998 Alcala Park. There will be speakers from the natural, physical, social and health sciences along with engineering and artistic/humanistic areas of science. The speakers come from high schools, community colleges, universities and from industry and government. The conference has a heavy focus on student work. The nonprofit is accepting abstracts from potential presenters. Cost is $95; $50 for students; (cost goes up in June). Visit aaaspd.org/2024-annual-meeting.html.

Free admission for teachers at USS Midway Museum

The USS Midway Museum provides free single-day admission for active and certified K-12 San Diego County credentialed classroom teachers through May 31 to thank teachers for their work. This free ticket offer is available at the Midway ticket booth only. Teachers must provide proof by presenting a teacher credential ID. The offer is available to teachers only. Visit midway.org/visit/special-offers.

SAN DIEGO COUNTY

Upcoming blood drives

The San Diego Blood Bank will hold blood drives in the following parking lots (unless otherwise noted):

  • Church of Christ (Iglesia Ni Cristo), 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 18 at 401 Broadway, El Cajon.
  • Vista Village Shopping Center, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. May 18 at 401 Vista Village Drive, Vista.
  • King of Kings Lutheran Church, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 19 at 2993 MacDonald St., Oceanside.
  • St. Patrick Catholic Church, 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. May 19 at 3821 Adams St., Carlsbad.
  • Albertsons, 1 to 6 p.m. May 21 at 1459 Main St., Ramona.
  • Padre Dam Municipal Water District, 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 22 at 9120 Carlton Oaks Drive, Santee.
  • Scripps Institution of Oceanography, 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. May 22 at 8664 Kennel Way, San Diego.
  • VFW Post 1774, 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. May 22 at 8118 University Ave., La Mesa.
  • Good Samaritan Retirement, 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. May 23 at 1515 Jamacha Way, El Cajon.
  • City of Encinitas, 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. May 23 in Public Works parking lot, 160 Calle Magdalena, Encinitas.
  • San Diego High School, 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. May 23, parked in quad at 1405 Park Blvd., San Diego.
  • Skyline Hills Branch Library, 2 to 4:30 p.m. May 23 at 7900 Paradise Valley Road, San Diego.
  • Steele Canyon High School, 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 24 at 12440 Campo Road, Spring Valley.
  • Rancho Bernardo Community Presbyterian Church, 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. May 26 at 17010 Pomerado Road.
  • ATA College, 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. May 28 at 1810 Gillespie Way, Suite 104, El Cajon.
  • Point Loma High School, 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. May 29 in small gym at 2335 Chatsworth Blvd., San Diego.
  • Barons Market, noon to 5 p.m. May 30 at 1347 Tavern Road, Alpine.
  • Bressi Ranch Village Center, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. May 30 at 2629 Gateway Road, Carlsbad.
  • Bonita-Sunnyside Branch Library, 12:30 to 3 p.m. May 31 at 4375 Bonita Road, Bonita.

Donors must be 17 and older, weigh at least 114 pounds, and be in good health. Photo identification is required. To make an appointment or find more drives, call (800) 469-7322 or visit sandiegobloodbank.org. Walk-ins are also welcome.

Feeding San Diego seeks volunteer drivers

Feeding San Diego, a nonprofit Feeding America partner food bank that provides hunger-relief and food rescue, needs volunteer drivers to pick up food from grocery stores and other food donors and deliver it to nearly 200 partner organizations. The partners help get food to people experiencing food insecurity throughout San Diego County. Food rescue drivers must be 18 or older. Volunteer drivers use their own personal vehicle for food rescue pickups; but the nonprofit can train drivers to use refrigerated vans provided by Feeding San Diego if needed and approved by the transportation team. Volunteers can commit to a recurring pickup for at least six months or support sporadic pickups as needed, which is more flexible for volunteers who can’t make a weekly commitment. Visit feedingsandiego.org/volunteer.

SAN MARCOS

‘State of Your Community’ event

The city of San Marcos holds a “State of Your Community” event from 4 to 6 p.m. May 21 at City Hall, 1 Civic Center Drive. Speakers include Mayor Rebecca Jones and Andy Johnsen, superintendent of San Marcos Unified School District. Jones will give highlights of the past year and discuss topics such as the city’s ongoing efforts to encourage residents to rediscover offerings of San Marcos in recreation and wellness, a summary of economic development, and ways the city is enriching their “Spirit of Service” for the community. A recreation and wellness resource fair will kick off the event at 4 p.m., followed by the program at 5 p.m. The resource fair will include a selection of local San Marcos recreation and wellness establishments. Light refreshments will be available at the fair. Admission is free. Visit san-marcos.net.

SANTEE

Street Fair and Craft Beer Festival

The Santee Street Fair and Craft Beer Festival is from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. May 25 at Town Center Parkway and Riverview Parkway. The festival, hosted by the Santee Chamber of Commerce, will showcase local breweries and will feature 300 food and vendor booths, art displays, a kids zone and live local entertainment. Admission is free. Visit santeestreetfair.com.

City hosts Heroes Golf Classic Tournament

Active-duty military and the public are invited to play in the city of Santee’s Heroes Golf Classic Tournament on May 31 at Carlton Oaks Golf Course, a par 72 course, at 9200 Inwood Drive. Check-in is at 7 a.m. and shotgun start is at 8 a.m. The tournament is a four-player best ball scramble format, and funds raised will support the city‘s adopted military members’ annual birthday ball. Proceeds will go toward costs such as child care at the ball and subsidized costs for ball attendees, so that every military member can afford to attend. Tickets are $125 for the public, $75 for active duty, and there is also an option to sponsor an active-duty player for $75. At the event, players will receive a breakfast burrito, lunch, two drink tickets, a golf cart and range balls, tickets to an opportunity drawing, giveaway items and opportunities to participate in contests. Visit cityofsanteeca.gov.

Tai Chi group meets Mondays

The Continuing Tai Chi Hill group will meet at 10 a.m. Mondays at Simmons Family Park, 2180 Rocky Point Way. Beginner Tai Chi will be held at 8:45 a.m. There is no charge to participate. Interested beginners should email donkeelewis@gmail.com to reserve a spot.

Friday Nights Live continues

Friday Nights Live entertainment continues from 5:30 to 7 p.m. May 24 at the Santee Trolley Square, 9884 Mission Gorge Road. The event features Expressions Dance Studio. Grab a bite to eat at one of the Santee Trolley Square eateries or pack a picnic dinner and enjoy live entertainment and kids activities. The city’s Public Services Division will showcase some of its heavy machinery as part of “Touch-a-Truck” Night. Admission is free. Visit cityofsanteeca.gov/our-city/special-events/friday-nights-live.

SOLANA BEACH

Playground reopening at La Colonia Park

A La Colonia Playground grand reopening will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. May 22 at La Colonia Park, 715 Valley Ave., to celebrate the completion of the Tot Lot children’s playground. Along with the ribbon-cutting ceremony with City Council members and Mayor Lesa Heebner, there will be live band music, inflatable bounce houses, face painters, refreshments, giveaways and balloon caricatures. Admission is free. For questions, call (858) 720-4430.

VISTA

Annual Strawberry Festival on May 26

The 13th annual Vista Strawberry Festival is from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. May 26 in historic downtown. The day kicks off with a 5K run at 7:30 a.m. Highlights include a costume contest, a strawberry pie eating contest and a strawberry ice cream sundae eating contest along with live music and entertainment on three stages, a beer garden, a food court and a street fair filled with vendors of all types. Little Miss Strawberry will be crowned at the event. Admission is free. There is free parking and shuttles every 15 minutes from Vista High School and the Vista Courthouse. Visit strawberryfest.com.

Free class on family history research

The Vista FamilySearch Center, 1310 Foothill Drive, will present a free class on How to Begin your Family History Research — Part 1 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. May 23. This is the first of a two-part class aimed at the genealogy beginner. It also serves as a refresher class on Family History research. Part 2 will be held June 27. Visit sites.google.com/view/vista-fhc/home.

Solutions for Change Academy celebrates graduation ceremony

The Vista-based nonprofit Solutions for Change holds its spring graduation ceremony from 6:30 to 8 p.m. May 23 at Calvary Chapel Vista, 885 E. Vista Way, to celebrate the achievements of the families that the nonprofit has helped to overcome addiction, dependency, codependency, childhood trauma, mental illness, unemployment, broken relationships and deep loss. This event honors the dedication of students graduating from the Solutions for Change Academy. RSVP at bit.ly/3wBSHrE.

If your nonprofit would like to submit an event listing or photos of events that have happened recently, please email linda.mcintosh@sduniontribune.com. Include the name of the group, date and time of event, address, cost and contact information for readers within the email text. Photos should be sent as JPEGs. Include the names of those in the photos from left to right along with the photo credit and permission from the photographer to use the photo in The San Diego Union-Tribune.

Community events in San Diego County: From Santee Street Fair to Vista Strawberry Festival (2024)

FAQs

How many people attend the Vista Strawberry Festival? ›

Vista, CA. The 2024 Vista Strawberry Festival drew nearly 100,000 people to downtown Vista on Sunday with costume contests, a 5k, vendors and more.

Is the Vista Strawberry Festival free? ›

The Vista Strawberry Festival is free and open to the public!

What is the theme for the San Diego County Fair 2024? ›

With a nod to nostalgia and a focus on fun, the 2024 Fair will give our yesteryears another moment in the San Diego sun. Bop your way around the happy days of the '50s.

Where is the largest strawberry festival? ›

The California Strawberry Festival is one of the largest food festivals in the United States, attracting over 50,000 visitors each year. Held annually in Oxnard, California, this festival is a celebration of all things strawberry, with a focus on local agriculture and the bounty of strawberries grown in the region.

What city hosts the California Strawberry Festival? ›

YOUR CAR. The California Strawberry Festival is at the Ventura County Fairgrounds at 10 W Harbor Blvd in Ventura. Ventura is approximately 68 miles north of downtown Los Angeles and 27 miles south of Santa Barbara.

How much are the wristbands for the Strawberry Festival? ›

Special one-price ride-all-day wristbands will be offered for all festival days at $35 per wristband on Friday and $40 each on Saturday, Sunday and Monday. Tickets for individual rides can also be purchased separately at $1 per ticket and rides require 3,4, 5, 7 or 8 tickets each.

What is the strawberry capital of California? ›

Oxnard is considered by many to be the Strawberry Capital of the World. The coastal climate and early Spring weather contribute to our success. That Southern California weather we all enjoy with warm sunny days and cool breezy nights, provide perfect strawberry growing conditions.

Can you visit Strawberry Fields for free? ›

Entry to the cafe, shop and gardens is free. Tickets to our visitor experience should be booked in advance here.

How old is the San Diego County Fair? ›

The San Diego County Fair, previously known as the Del Mar Fair, has been a staple to the San Diego community since 1880 and secured its current home at the fairgrounds in 1936. The fair has only been suspended twice, during World War II and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

How much are the San Diego County Fair? ›

Fair Admission Ticket Prices
Wed & Thu (except July 4)Fri
Adult - General (age 13-61)$16 advance $20 day of event$20 advance $25 day of event
Senior (age 62+)$13 advance $17 day of event$17 advance $22 day of event
Youth (age 6-12)$13 advance $17 day of eventFREE!
Children (age 5 and younger)FREE!FREE!

How long does the San Diego Fair last? ›

2024 Fair Dates

The 2024 San Diego County Fair is open June 12 through July 7 (closed Mondays & Tuesdays.)

How many people go to Strawberry Fields? ›

Originally conceived to provide a platform for emerging artists, the festival has blossomed into a gathering of 12,000 attendees from around the world. Adventure into the Wildlands to experience a kaleidoscope of musical genres from emerging and established live and electronic artists across multiple stages.

How many people attend the Florida Strawberry Festival? ›

About the Florida Strawberry Festival

Each year, over 600,000 visitors enjoy the Festival's headline entertainment, youth livestock shows, exhibits of commerce and, of course, its strawberry shortcake.

How many people attend the Strawberry Festival in Portland TN? ›

Each year in mid-May the festival brings 40,000+ people together to celebrate the importance of the strawberry industry to Portland's heritage.

How much does it cost to get into the Florida Strawberry Festival? ›

Adults (ages 13+): $15 Children (ages 6-12): $5 Children (ages 5 and under): FREE with paid adult admission.

References

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Manual Maggio

Last Updated:

Views: 5742

Rating: 4.9 / 5 (49 voted)

Reviews: 88% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Manual Maggio

Birthday: 1998-01-20

Address: 359 Kelvin Stream, Lake Eldonview, MT 33517-1242

Phone: +577037762465

Job: Product Hospitality Supervisor

Hobby: Gardening, Web surfing, Video gaming, Amateur radio, Flag Football, Reading, Table tennis

Introduction: My name is Manual Maggio, I am a thankful, tender, adventurous, delightful, fantastic, proud, graceful person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.