North County and San Diego Events August 2018
Del Mar Racing Season
July 18 – September 3
Location: Del Mar, 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd
San Diego horse racing takes place where the “turf meets the surf” at the Del Mar Racetrack. Fans flock to the track each summer to wager on their favorite horses during the popular, annual Del Mar Thoroughbred Club racing season, mid-July through early-September. Be part of the magic and nostalgia of this long-time horse race tradition dating back to 1937. That was when Bing Crosby greeted the first guests, and Seabiscuit won by a nose in the infamous race in 1938. This season features the nation’s top race horses, trainers and jockeys, and plenty of fun in the sun.
Concert Series
Don’t miss the Del Mar Summer Concert Series. Concerts are free with racetrack admission purchased prior to the last race.
The American Watercolor Society 151st Traveling Exhibition & Local Color
July 14 – August 26
Location: Escondido, California Center for the Arts, 340 N Escondido Blvd
Each year the American Watercolor Society holds a juried exhibition that draws thousands of entries from artists throughout the world. The top selections are included in a traveling exhibition, touring museums and galleries nationwide. This exhibition includes portraiture, landscape, still life, abstract imagery and more.
Local Color
Along with this exhibit is Local Color. Escondido artist and curator, Linda Doll, has brought together ten of our local signature member level artists from the American Watercolor Society and National Watercolor Society. Each artist, working within their own style and theme, was asked to create new works for display and sale in this exciting exhibition.
Oceanside International Film Festival
August 1 – 5
Location: Oceanside, various theaters
Held every August, Oceanside International Film Festival officially kicks off a season of various film festivals. These are conducted annually in San Diego County and usually continue through the fall. Established in 2009, OIFF is an opportunity for independent filmmakers to have their work screened and judged. It also gives film buffs a jump-start chance for viewing local and international films at a place in Southern California known for its rich history, beautiful beaches, and artistic freedom.
Over the course of the festival, OIFF will screen over 50 films and showcase some of the best San Diego has to offer in local craft brew and catering. Cost is $10 to $70.
TGIF Concerts in the Parks
August 3, 10, 17
6 – 8 PM
Location: Carlsbad, various parks
For over 30 years, the City of Carlsbad Cultural Arts Office has presented live music events throughout the city. When summer rolls around in Carlsbad, everyone gears up for TGIF Concerts in the Parks! The 2018 season runs Friday nights through August 17, from 6 to 8 p.m. It features great music, food and a chance to dance the night away with friends and neighbors in a beautiful outdoor setting. All fields open at 4 p.m.
Music for Everyone
This year’s band lineup offers a music genre for everyone, and includes rock, funk, soul, blues, jazz, Latin, country and swing. Concerts are free. They are open to the public and will take place in four beautiful Carlsbad community parks. As onsite parking is limited, a free shuttle service is available at most concert locations.
The music at TGIF is just the beginning. A variety of food vendors are onsite at the events, or you can bring your own feast from home. Family Open Studios is back with free, hands-on art making activities for all ages.
Oceanside Yacht Club Charity Regatta
August 4 – 5
Location: Oceanside Harbor, 1950 Harbor Dr North
The Oceanside Yacht Club (OYC) is hosting the annual Charity Regatta to benefit The Elizabeth Hospice on Saturday, August 4 and Sunday August 5. It will take place at OYC located at 1950 Harbor Drive North, Oceanside. The two-day event begins with sailboat races on August 4 and August 5. Daily post-race parties are open to the public free of charge beginning at 3:00 pm Saturday and 2:00 pm Sunday.
Auction, Raffle & Live Music
Food and drink are available for purchase both days along with a silent auction, raffle, awards and live music. The Grand Prize Raffle Drawing includes a 7-day Holland America Cruise for 2 to the Caribbean, Mexico or Canada/New England or Alaska. The cruise drawing is $20 per ticket. The public can join the fun “on the water” and board a luxury powerboat for a $100 per person donation to The Elizabeth Hospice. Enjoy live music by local bands.
Vista Rod Run
August 5
9 AM – 2 PM
Location: Vista, Downtown
This year is the 29th Annual Rod Run. Vista is proud to once again host a collection of classic, hot rod and specialty vehicles along with their owners. There will be over 300 domestic and imported, specialty vehicles including classic and custom hot rods, street rods, muscle cars, and trucks.
The annual Rod Run features live music, a raffle, vendors, trophies, and a 50/50 drawing. Hosted by the Vista Village Business Association.
Sunday Summer Concerts by the Sea
August 5, 19
3 – 5 PM
Location: Encinitas, Moonlight Beach, 400 B St
This summer, Encinitas Parks and Recreation brings more fun to our beach concert experience. Each concert date features cool, hands-on exhibits, demos, concerts and free stuff! All you need to do is show up. How cool is that? There are two concert dates in August. August 5 features the reggae band, New Leaf. On August 19 the rock bank, The Pettybreakers, will be playing.
On the Sand
Summer Concerts are held right on the sand at beautiful Moonlight Beach in Encinitas. Come enjoy fun at the beach. Remember that glass, alcohol, smoking and dogs are prohibited on our beaches.
33rd Annual Oceanside Longboard Surfing Club Contest and Beach Festival
August 11 – 13
Location: Oceanside, Junior Seau Pier Amphitheatre, 200 The Strand N
There are three events taking place on the south side of the Oceanside pier: the Oceanside Longboard Annual Surf Contest and Beach Festival, the Guy Takayama Pro-Am Noseriding Event, and the Guy Takayama Pro-Am Open. The 34th annual event features coalition surf teams from all over California. The event will include a beach festival in the amphitheater with merchandise vendors, music, food and a beer garden.
The event is free to spectators and shoppers, and sponsored by The Oceanside Longboard Surfing Club (OLSC). It is held to raise funds for charitable purposes. This year, we will be honoring the first responders that serve us in Oceanside and the surrounding communities.
Movies in the Park
August 11
8 PM
Location: Vista, Brengle Terrace Park, 1200 Vale Terrace Dr
The Movies series is the perfect chance to enjoy a fun FREE night with the family outdoors and under the stars. Come early, bring a blanket, a picnic and get a good seat! Bring jackets as the nights are cool!
STAR WARS: The Last Jedi
This month’s featured movie is STAR WARS: The Last Jedi, rated PG-13. It will begin at 8:00 PM.
Snores ‘n S’mores Family Campout
August 11 – 12
5 PM – 9 AM
Location: Carlsbad, Aviara Community Park, 6435 Ambrosia Ln
Join us for an INCREDIBLE adventure that starts when you check in at the information booth. Design your own super hero at the superhero craft station. Then, test your speed as you DASH around in a light battle challenge. Outrun your enemies in Violette’s FORCE FIELD orbs and use SYNDROME’S laser arm technology while fighting the OMNIDROID. Mark off each area as you complete the task, then return back to the information booth for a fun prize.
Enjoy a BBQ dinner and end the evening with popcorn, s’mores and a movie under the stars. The morning includes a continental breakfast and a hike on one of Carlsbad’s many scenic trails.
Preregistration
Dinner and a continental breakfast are provided. Preregistration is required. Visit www.carlsbadconnect.org to register.
Cardiff Dog Days of Summer
August 12
11 AM – 6 PM
Location: Cardiff-by-the-Sea, Encinitas Community Park, 425 Santa Fe Dr
Cardiff-by-the-Sea is ready to celebrate man’s best friend! Set in this beautiful beach community, this FREE event features over 100 dog-related vendors and rescue groups, pet adoption agencies, live music, dog contests, kids’ activities, a beer and wine garden, food trucks and more!
Enjoy refreshing blends and brews at The Lost Abbey Beer & CG Di Arie Wine Oasis situated next to the main stage. Enjoy a wide variety of music that will keep playing two hours after the festival closes. A portion of the proceeds from drink sales will benefit Rancho Coastal Humane Society. So drink up for a good cause!
The event is hosted by Cardiff 101 Main Street and the City of Encinitas. Last year’s event drew over 5,000 attendees throughout the day. This year we expect an estimated 8,000 to attend.
Summer Jazz Concert
August 12
5 – 7 PM
Location: Encinitas, San Diego Botanic Garden, 230 Quail Gardens Dr
Spend the evening listening to the Big Band and Jazz Hall of Fame Orchestra. They will be performing the hits of Glen Miller, Benny Goodman, Tommy Dorsey, Count Baise, Artie Shaw, Stan Kenton and many more.
CD’s will be available for purchase the day of the concert. This event will be held in the Gazebo Lawn and chairs will be provided.
Cost
Adult member $15. Adult non-member $25,
Youth member $5. Youth non-member $10.
Jazz Festival food will be Feel Good Coffee Cart serving light fare, snacks and beverages. You are also welcome to bring a picnic lunch.
Moonlight Presents The Hunchback of Notre Dame
August 15 – September 1
8 PM
Location: Vista, 1200 Vale Terrace Dr
From the Oscar-winning team of Alan Menken (Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin) and Stephen Schwartz (Wicked, Godspell) comes the lushly scored retelling of Victor Hugo’s epic story of love, acceptance, and what it means to be a hero.
The sweeping story follows deformed bell ringer Quasimodo and his adventures during the annual revels of the Feast of Fools. At the feast he is treated cruelly by all but the beautiful gypsy, Esmeralda. She alone sees the beauty beneath his exterior, and her kindness is the basis for a friendship that brings its own rewards.
Stone 22nd Anniversary Celebration & International Beer Festival
August 17 – 18
Location: San Marcos, Cal State San Marcos, 333 S Twin Oaks Rd
The Stone 22nd Anniversary Celebration & Invitational Beer Festival is not only the largest craft beer festival in Southern California. It’s also our largest annual charitable event. We’re proud to support our community by donating 100% of the proceeds from this event and by promoting a culture of social responsibility, collaboration and involvement.
Friday
Friday night is the brewers’ reception with more than 40 beers on tap, many of which won’t be available Saturday. Sample beers with no tabs or tokens required. Enjoy the cigar lounge, commemorative 22nd anniversary tasting glass, complimentary gourmet fare by Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens and live music.
Saturday
Saturday will include a commemorative 22nd anniversary tasting glass, endless 2 oz samples and an expansive festival area with three levels and lots of shade. There will be over 55 participating breweries, 100+ amazing beers, complimentary artisan snacks, free parking, a cigar lounge, and live music.
THIS EVENT IS 21 AND OVER ONLY, INCLUDING DESIGNATED DRIVERS. Every festival we turn someone away for not having a valid ID. Don’t be that person. BRING YOUR ID! Sorry, no infants, children or pets.
World Bodysurfing Championships
August 18 – 19
Location: Oceanside, Oceanside Pier, 300 The Strand N
Beachsport.org announces the 42nd Annual World Bodysurfing Championships to be held adjacent to the Oceanside Pier August 18-19, 2018. Approximately 350-400 bodysurfers from around the world compete in their respective age divisions for trophies and prizes. The Men and Women’s Grand Champions will be crowned on Sunday afternoon, the final day.
The contest is projected to start at 6:30 am each morning. Keep an eye on the schedule. Times may change based upon the number of applications received.
Carlsbad Music Festival
August 24 – 26
Location: Carlsbad, St Michael’s by the Sea, 2775 Carlsbad Blvd
The Carlsbad Music Festival is an eclectic mix of creative music ranging from contemporary classical, to indie rock, to world music, to electronic. We’ll also have a beer garden, food trucks, and artisan market steps from the beach.
Phenomenal
The music festival is a mix of free and paid concerts. KPBS said it is “one of the area’s most innovative music showcases,” and the San Diego Union-Tribune called it “phenomenal.”
San Diego International Kids’ Film Festival
August 24 – 26
Location: Carlsbad, Oceanside, various locations
This year, the SDIKFF will screen over 150 films from 30+ countries. There will be American filmmakers along with film delegations from China, Korea, Taiwan, Canada, Mexico, Russia, Japan, India, France, UK, Germany and many more.
Films will be shown at Schulman Auditorium at 1775 Dove Lane in Carlsbad, the Senior Center at 799 Pine Avenue in Carlsbad, and the OHS Performing Arts Center at 1 Pirates Cove Way in Oceanside.
Vista Historical Society’s Barbecue at the Museum
August 25
3 – 7 PM
Location: Vista, 2317 Old Foothill Dr
The Vista Historical Society is holding their annual barbecue at the museum featuring pit barbecue, live music, line dancing and a bounce house. There will even be a dessert contest with the winner taking home $100!
Menu & Cost
Enjoy beef brisket, pulled pork, hot dogs, coleslaw, corn on the cob and dessert. Cost is $15 for adults and $10 for kids 10 and under. Beer and wine will be served for $3 a glass.
Float n’ Flick
August 25
6 – 9 PM
Location: Carlsbad, Alga Norte Aquatic Center, 6565 Alicante Rd
Cool off and watch a movie under the stars while floating in our warm water pool! Watch A Bug’s Life, rated G, on the giant inflatable screen. The movie will start at dusk. The event ends when the movie is over. You can purchase pool floats for the first hour of the event or while supplies last.
Enjoy dinner at the Dive in Grill open during the event. Menu includes made-to-order grilled burgers, chicken sandwiches, pizza, shaved ice, ice cream and other tasty treats.
Tickets
Tickets are $8 per person, and kids ages 3 and under are free. Save time and avoid lines by picking up event wristbands in advance. Wristbands will be available for pick up starting three weeks before the event at Alga Norte Aquatics Center ONLY during regular business hours. All sales are final; absolutely no refunds. Wristbands that are picked up in advance that are lost or not brought to the event will not be replaced. No exceptions.
LeucadiART Walk
August 26
10 AM – 5 PM
Location: Encinitas, Leucadia, along N Coast Highway 101
- Local juried artists displaying original art in specified areas along Coast Highway 101 in Leucadia.
- Free open air trolley rides! Beat a parking hassle by parking at Encinitas City Hall (505 S Vulcan) and taking the trolley to the event.
- Six places for live music!
- LIVE art, dance and art demonstrations.
- Our Craft Beer Garden featuring beers from The Lost Abbey and popular musical acts from our region!
- New and improved Children’s Art Pavilion with multiple art stations sponsored by Scripps Health.
- A FREE, collectible retro road map of Leucadia showcasing sponsors, event locations and participating businesses locations.
- More than 5,000 people turn out for this event.