Dr. Seuss’s Original Lorax Tree in San Diego

The lone Lorax tree in Scripps Park, La Jolla. (Courtesy of San Diego Tourism)

In 1937, a long line of publishers rejected a children’s book that would later become a classic. Penned by Theodore Geisel, And to Think That I Saw It on Mulberry Street immortalized a street in the author’s hometown, Springfield, Massachusetts. The book was eventually picked up by a publisher, the first in a long line of classics penned by Geisel, a.k.a. Dr. Seuss.

His first book may have Massachusetts roots, but after World War II Geisel made his way to San Diego, California and moved into an observation tower in ritzy La Jolla. His newly adopted hometown became part of literary history, too. In this home and his studio on Mt. Soledad, Seuss wrote more than 40 children’s books—including the immortal The Cat in the Hat. And though he died in 1991, his legacy still looms large in both San Diego and the history of literature for kids.

“Seuss is the best selling and most influential children’s author in the United States,” Dr. Philip Nel, director of the children’s literature program at Kansas State University, tells Smithsonian.com. “He teaches children not only how to read but why and how to think. He wants children to take an interest in their world and make a better world.” … read more –>  http://www.smithsonianmag.com/travel/…

San Diego County Median Home Price Up By 6.4%

Home prices across Southern California continued to increase in May but the pace at which they went up appeared sluggish, said the S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller Indices released Tuesday.

San Diego County’s median home price, adjusted for seasonal swings, increased 6.4 percent in the last 12 months, while Los Angeles and Orange Counties increased 5.4 percent …

National home prices increased 5 percent — unchanged from last month …

The rate at which prices in San Diego are increasing has been mostly flat or decreasing since the start of the year. The median price year-over-year was up 6.9 percent in January, 6.4 percent in February, 6.2 percent in March and 6.3 percent in April. …

The median home price in San Diego County hit $495,000 in June, CoreLogic reported last week.

David Blitzer, managing chairman of the Index Committee at S&P Dow Jones Indices, said in May’s report that the housing market was strong, in part because sales of existing homes reached the highest monthly level since 2007.   Read more –>   http://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/news/2016/jul/26/home-price-socal-may/

San Diego’s Best Restaurants 2016

Specific Cuisines:

……………………………………………………………………………………

Best Middle Eastern

Readers’ Pick: Meze
Runner-up: The Kebab Shop
Critic’s Pick: Khyber Pass

……………………………………………………………………………………

Best Italian

Readers’ Pick: Solare Ristorante
Runner-up: Cucina Urbana and Cucina Enoteca
Critic’s Pick: Solare Ristorante

……………………………………………………………………………………

Best Greek

Readers’ Pick: Meze
Runner-up: Cafe Athena
Critic’s Pick: Cafe Athena

……………………………………………………………………………………

Best Mexican

Readers’ Pick: Talavera Azul
Runner-up: Puesto
Critic’s Pick: Bracero Cocina

……………………………………………………………………………………

Best French

Readers’ Pick: Bleu Bohème
Runner-up: Cafe Chloe
Critic’s Pick: The Marine Room

……………………………………………………………………………………

Best Indian

Readers’ Pick: Bombay
Runner-up: Royal India
Critic’s Pick: Taste of the Himalayas

……………………………………………………………………………………

Best Chinese

Readers’ Pick: Szechuan Mandarin
Runner-up: Dumpling Inn
Critic’s Pick: Dumpling Inn

……………………………………………………………………………………

Best Japanese

Readers’ Pick: Sushi Ota
Runner-up: Blue Smoke
Critic’s Pick: Wa Dining Okan

……………………………………………………………………………………

Best Thai

Readers’ Pick: Supannee
Runner-up: Amarin
Critic’s Pick: Supannee

……………………………………………………………………………………

Best Vietnamese

Readers’ Pick: Le Bambou
Runner-up: Saigon on Fifth
Critic’s Pick: Saigon on Fifth

……………………………………………………………………………………

Best Korean

Readers’ Pick: Manna Korean BBQ
Runner-up: Tofu House
Critic’s Pick: Do Re Mi

……………………………………………………………………………………

Best Filipino

Readers’ Pick: Tita’s Kitchenette
Runner-up: Manila Sunset
Critic’s Pick: Tita’s Kitchenette

……………………………………………………………………………………

Best Russian

Readers’ Pick: Pomegranate
Runner-up: Pushkin
Critic’s Pick: Pomegranate

……………………………………………………………………………………

Best Ethiopian

Readers’ Pick: Muzita
Runner-up: Red Sea
Critic’s Pick: Muzita

……………………………………………………………………………………

Best Vegetarian/Vegan

Readers’ Pick: Café Gratitude
Runner-up: Civico 1845
Critic’s Pick: Café Gratitude

……………………………………………………………………………………

Best Barbecue

Readers’ Pick: Phil’s BBQ
Runner-up: Coops West Texas BBQ
Critic’s Pick: Coops West Texas BBQ

……………………………………………………………………………………

Best Steakhouse

Readers’ Pick: Cowboy Star
Runner-up: Donovan’s
Critic’s Pick: Cowboy Star

……………………………………………………………………………………

Best Seafood

Readers’ Pick: Ironside FIsh & Oyster
Runner-up: Truluck’s
Critic’s Pick: Mitch’s

……………………………………………………………………………………

Best Breakfast/Brunch

Readers’ Pick: Talavera Azul
Runner-up: Snooze
Critic’s Pick: Café 21

……………………………………………………………………………………

for other additional individual categories of:   (1) Overall, (2) Atmosphere, (3) Specific Dishes, (4) Drinks, go to –> http://www.sandiegomagazine.com/San-Diego-Magazine/June-2016/…

The Beauty of A Japanese Garden

JAPANESE GARDEN AT BALBOA PARK,

SAN DIEGO, CA, USA

courtesy of:  https://www.facebook.com/ats.tran.5?fref=nf

SAN DIEGO FEB, 2016 FUN EVENTS

February 1 – 28, Museum Month: Half-Off Admission

Leap into 45 museums in San Diego this February. Presented by Macy’s, this popular event allows participants to enjoy half-off entry fees at 45 San Diego Museum Council membership museums.

Time: refer to website

Price: Museum admission prices vary

Location: refer to website

For more info:  www.sandiegomuseumcouncil.org

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February 1 – 29, Romantic Valentines Winery Chauffeured Tour

Spoil your sweetheart with a Romantic Valentines tour of San Diego’s beautiful wineries. Enjoy romantic, panoramic vineyard views as you and your loved one taste superb local wines (about 18 pours!), paired with gourmet food, and lots of FUN!

Time: 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Price: $149 per person

Location: call for more information

For more info:  858.551.5115 or www.sdbeerwine.com

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February 1 – 29, Beer My Valentine Beer & Food Walking Tour

SHOW THE LOVE! Take your Valentine out for some local and international craft beers and brew up some love on this ROMANTIC Valentine’s Beer and Food Walking Tour.On this exciting 3-hr guided walking tour you’ll enjoy three tour stops for award-winning beer tastings, including local craft beers, along with VIP food pairings.

Time: 2:15 PM to 5:15 PM

Price: $89 per person

Location: call for more information

For more info:  858.551.5115 or www.sdbeerwine.com

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February 3, First Wednesdays: Euphoria Brass Band

Euphoria Brass Band is a San Diego-based musical collective that serves up a contemporary mix of old school New Orleans brass band jazz, funky street beats, and new school edginess with a West Coast feeling! Their incendiary, high energy shows are guaranteed to get a crowd smiling, dancing, and having a good time. Euphoria Brass Band always leaves ‘em wanting more!

Time: 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Price: General Admission – Free

Location: 340 N Escondido Blvd., Escondido, CA 92025

For more info:  800.988.4253 or artcenter.org

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February 4 – 14, San Diego Jewish Film Festival

This year the festival will showcase a total of 60 films of the best contemporary Jewish-themed films from around the world celebrating life, human rights, and freedom of expression. The mission of the Film Festival is to offer outstanding world cinema that promotes awareness, appreciation and pride in the diversity of the Jewish people to attendees of the community at large.

Time: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM

Price: $13.75

Location:  4126 Executive Dr., La Jolla, CA 92037

For more info: 858.362.1347 or www.sdcjc.org/sdjff

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February 5 – 7, Chocolate Lover’s Weekend

Whether you are a couple looking for a romantic get-away or a family of chocolate fanatics looking for a memorable weekend, join us for an indulgent stay filled with chocolate!

Time: call for more information

Price: call for more information

Location: 111 N Second Ave., Chula Vista, CA 91910

For more info: 619.427.3601 or koa.com

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February 5 – 14, SDJT Presents: Pinocchio

Carlo Collodi’s classic tale is told through a clever new interpretation — a story within a story. While refurbishing an unfinished stage, a group of Italian construction workers happen upon an audience patiently awaiting the next performance of “Pinocchio.”

Time: 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Price: $13-$15

Location: 3366 Park Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92103

For more info: 619.239.8355 or visit juniortheatre.com

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February 5, San Diego Brazil Carnival Mardi Gras

This spectacular brazilian mardi gras ball will feature pulsating samba beats, beautiful & sexy samba dancers, electrifying capoeira performances, and nonstop brazilian music. There will be fun, feathers, fantasy and much, much more… So come have the time of your life at one of the best brazilian carnivals on the west coast!

Time: 9:00 PM to 11:45 PM

Price: $22-$99

Location: 360 5th Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101

For more info: 619.224.4684 or www.brazilcarnival.com

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February 11, International Guitar Night

International Guitar Night (IGN) is a fiery acoustic extravaganza featuring master performer Brian Gore along with a celebrated cast of guitar luminaries including German guitar virtuoso Andre Krengel, world-renowned fingerstyle innovator Mike Dawes, and Gypsy guitar prodigy Lulo Reinhardt.

Time: 7:30 PM to 9:00 PM

Price: $30-$40

Location: 340 N Escondido Blvd., Escondido, CA 92025

For more info: 800.988.4253 or artcenter.org

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February 12 – 14, Valentine’s Day Weekend Cruises

Find romance between the sea and sky with San Diego Valentine’s dinner and brunch cruises from Hornblower. You’ll enjoy spectacular Bay views with famous San Diego landmarks, wonderful food to choose from with our special Valentine’s Day menus and music for dancing.

Time: 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM

Price: $67.95 per adult

Location: 1800 North Harbor Dr., San Diego, CA 92101

For more info:  619.686.8715 or  www.hornblower.com

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February 13, Monster Energy AMA Supercross

Monster Energy AMA Supercross, an FIM World Championship, is the world’s premier stadium motorcycle circuit, comprised of 17 races of heart-stopping racing action in some of the largest venues in North America.

Time: 6:30 PM to 10:00 PM

Price:  $20-$70

Location: 100 Park Blvd., San Diego, CA 92101

For more info: 619.795.5555 or  sandiego.padres.mlb.com

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February 14, Jump Start Your Heart 5K

Join us for the 5th Annual Jump Start Your Heart 5K where you can walk, run and celebrate as you support the Children’s Heart Foundation.

Time: 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM

Price: $40-$45

Location: 2688 E Mission Bay Dr., San Diego, CA 92109

For more info:  631.875.9895 or  www.jumpstartyourheartsd.com

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February 14, Valentine’s Day Sweetheart’s Dinner Cruise

Snuggle on deck under the stars as you float by San Diego’s sparkling nighttime skyline on this 2 1/2-hour bay cruise, and see your Valentine’s eyes sparkle back.

Time: 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Price: Adult – $99.50 Children – $59.70

Location: 1990 N Harbor Dr., San Diego, CA 92101

For more info: 800.442.7847 or www.flagshipsd.com

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February 19, Atomic Groove Happy Hour

Come get your dance on with Atomic Groove Happy Hour and the Atomic Groove Fly Girlz! One of North County’s best happy hour, featuring fun dance hits from the 60s to today!

Time: 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM

Price: $7

Location: 143 S Cedros, Suite T, Solana Beach, CA 92075

For more info:  858.481.8140 or bellyup.com

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February 22 – 28, San Diego Theatre Week

Over 30 San Diego performing arts organizations have come together to collaborate on and promote the first annual San Diego Theatre Week, a week-long celebration of performing arts that will serve to promote the vast array of performing arts in the city.

Time: call for more information

Price: Prices and discounts vary by theatre

Location: 1317 Horton Plaza (7th Floor), San Diego, CA 92101

For more info: 858.381.5595 or  www.sandiegotheatreweek.com

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February 24 – March 20, Now You See It

The United States premiere of an outrageously funny farce by the French master of the form, Georges Feydeau, in a brilliant translation by British playwright Kenneth McLeish. Now You See It takes audiences on a dizzying escapade fueled by jealousy bordering on paranoia, a philandering husband, hypnotism, a spurned lover and a scandalous discovery. Furiously fast and clever, this visual and verbal treat is guaranteed to tickle your funny bone.

Time: call for more information

Price: $34

Location: 987 Lomas Santa Fe Dr., Solana Beach, CA 92075

For more info:  858.481.1055 or northcoastrep.org

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February 26, Rihanna

It’s hard to believe that Rihanna is only 27 years old. Yet within the 9 years since the start of her musical career, she’s become the youngest solo artist to score 13 no. 1 singles on the Billboard hot 100 – the fastest to do so – she’s sold more than 54 million albums and 210 million tracks worldwide.

Time: 7:30 PM to 10:00 PM

Price: $35-$165

Location: 5500 Canyon Crest Dr., San Diego, CA 92182-4210

For more info: as.sdsu.edu

_______________________________________________________

courtesy of:  

IVAN SOLIS, JR.  / Sr. Sales Executive / Ivan.Solis@Title365.com  / (619) 804-9000

KRISTINE COSTA / Sales Executive / Kristine.Costa@Title365.com

Title 365 / 8880 Rio San Diego Drive / Suite 1100 / San Diego, CA 92108 / (619) 857-6347

SAN DIEGO JAN, 2016 FUN EVENTS

January 1, New Year’s Day Brunch Cruise

Toast to the New Year with a delicious Champagne brunch, free-flowing champagne, and amazing San Diego Bay views.

Time: 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM

Price: Starting at $62.95 per person (Price Subject to Change)

Location: 1800 North Harbor Dr., San Diego, CA 92101

For more info:  888.467.6256 or visit www.hornblower.com

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January 2, Pajama Jam: New Year’s Family Night Out

Celebrate the New Year at an after-hours party at The New Children’s Museum! Jump into your jammies and join us for delicious dinner, New Year’s theme art activities, games, music, entertainment and our famous countdown balloon drop! Adults will enjoy one drink token with ticket and the chance to win amazing prizes in an opportunity drawing.

Time: 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM

Price: $15-$35

Location: 200 W Island Ave., San Diego, CA 92101

For more info:  619.233.8792 or visit www.thinkplaycreate.org/fundraising-events

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 January 6, First Wednesdays: Besos de Coco

Besos de Coco is stirring up a great deal of excitement with their fresh and intense sound that maintains its roots in the romantic music of the old-world Mediterranean, Latin American, and Jazz traditions. Tap-dancer Claudia Gomez Vorce, double-bassist Evona Wascinski, and classical guitarist / vocalist Lorraine Castellanos make up this musically magnetic trio.

Time: 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Price: General Admission – Free

Location: 340 N Escondido Blvd., Escondido, CA 92025

For more info:  800.988.4253 or visit artcenter.org/event/besos-de-coco

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January 9 – 24, SDJT Presents: Ivy+Bean the Musical

Pancake Court is no ordinary cul-de-sac! Start with two completely opposite 8-year olds: Ivy, the quiet reader who loves magic and wants to be a witch, and Bean, the outgoing, rambunctious and often devious counterpart who has never been shy.

Time: 11:00 AM

Price: $11-$15

Location: 1650 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101

For more info:  619.239.8355 or visit juniortheatre.com

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January 10, 2014 – January 29, 2016 Gaslamp Ghosts Walking Tour

Take a stroll through the Gaslamp’s haunted history with Davis House historian, Sandee Wilhoit, who will recount ghostly happenings of the past…and of the present. Visit hotels, saloons, brothels and a long-ago funeral parlor, and end your tour inside the Gaslamp’s most haunted edifice – the William Heath Davis House.

Time: 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM

Price: Adults – $20

Location: 410 Island Ave., San Diego, CA 92101

For more info:  619.233.4692 or visit www.gaslampquarter.org

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January 14 – 16, Cristela Alonzo

Cristela Alonzo made TV history in 2014, by being the first Latina to create, produce and star in a network TV sitcom, “Cristela,” an achievement which caps a whirlwind year. She released “Some of the Hits,” her first stand-up CD through Comedy Central and will be making her feature film debut in the upcoming Angry Birds movie.

Time: 8:00 PM to 11:00 PM

Price: $18

Location: 818 B 6th Ave., San Diego, CA 92101

For more info:  619.795.3858 or visit  americancomedyco.com

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January 15, Quicksilver

“Fantasticus: Extravagant and Virtuosic Music from 17th-century Germany” Led by violinists Robert Mealy and Julie Andrijeski, Quicksilver brings together some of the leading historically informed performers in America today.

Time: 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM

Price: General – $30-$35

Location: 743 Prospect street, La Jolla, CA 92037

For more info:  619.291.8246 or visit www.sdems.org

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January 15, Jerry Seinfeld

America’s premier comedian, Jerry Seinfeld, will be performing his signature stand-up routine. Seinfeld has been hailed for his uncanny ability to joke about the little things in life that relate to audiences everywhere.

Time: 7:30 PM to 11:00 PM

Price: Starting at $46.50

Location: 3666 Fourth Ave., San Diego, CA 92103

For more info:  www.broadwaysd.com/jerry-seinfeld.htm

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January 16, Kids Marathon Mile at LEGOLAND California

LEGOLAND® California is host to a special, 1-mile fun run for kids of all ages and abilities.  Before the doors open to the public, they’re opened for us to enjoy the sights and sounds of LEGOLAND®! Participants can run, walk, skip or stroll, or even be pushed in a stroller or carried on a back as they wind through the park, making their way to an exciting, spectator-filled finish line. Each finisher is presented with a shiny finisher’s medal and treated to a fun post-event party with a DJ, activities, light refreshments and booths. The event concludes at 10 a.m. with the opening of LEGOLAND® and SEA LIFE™ Aquarium where registered participants age 12 & under can enter the park for free and moms and dads can enter for 50% off admission.

Timeline:

• 6:30 AM: LEGOLAND parking lot opens (parking is free at this time with no reentry)
• 7:00 AM: Event day registration
• 8:00 AM: Mile races start

Time: 6:30 AM to 10:00 AM

Price: $10-$30

Location: One LEGOLAND Dr., Carlsbad, CA 92008

For more info:  619.291.8246 or visit www.carlsbadmarathon.com

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January 16 – March 6, The History and the Hair Story

The History and the Hair Story: 400 Years Without a Comb is a journey through the history of the African American hair industry and its role in our present culture. From its origins in the seat of civilization to the epicenter of the civil rights movement, the comb’s untold story takes the spotlight in this exhibition by way of 400 years’ worth of artifacts, photography, historical accounts, propaganda, and much more.

Time: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Price: General Admission – $8, Kids 12 & Under – Free

Location: 340 N Escondido Blvd., Escondido, CA 92025

For more info:  800.988.4253 or visit artcenter.org

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January 24, Nordic Landscapes | Mingle @ the Mingei

Music of Scandinavia: Edvard Grieg, Jean Sibelius, Carl Nielsen, Christian Sinding & Kaveli Aho woodwind quintet, violin, cello, piano.

Time: 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Price: General – $30

Location: 1439 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101

For more info:  619.231.3702 or visit www.classicalmusicsandiego.com

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January 29, The Opening Night: Ed Ruscha Then & Now

Celebrate MCASD’s latest exhibition at The Opening Night with cocktails, live music, food trucks, guided tours, and more! The iconic artist Ed Ruscha first gained attention in the 1960s for work that combines text and image with deadpan takes on American vernacular culture. An innovator of West-Coast Pop and Conceptual Art, Ruscha’s work defies and exceeds both categories, drawing upon popular media, commercial culture, and the landscape of Los Angeles.

Time: 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Price: Included with admission

Location: 700 Prospect St., La Jolla, CA 92037

For more info:  858.454.3541 or visit www.mcasd.org

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January 31, 2015- June 17, 2016 San Diego Invites the World: The 1915 Expo

The definitive commemorative exhibition of the 1915 Exposition is set in a framework of innovation as an event and as a showcase of innovations in commerce, industry, agriculture and arts/culture during that era.

Time: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Price: Included with admission

Location: 1649 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101

For more info:  619.232.6203 or visit www.sandiegohistory.org/The1915Expo

_______________________________________________________

courtesy of:  

IVAN SOLIS, JR.  / Sr. Sales Executive / Ivan.Solis@Title365.com  / (619) 804-9000

KRISTINE COSTA / Sales Executive / Kristine.Costa@Title365.com

Title 365 / 8880 Rio San Diego Drive / Suite 1100 / San Diego, CA 92108 / (619) 857-6347

Sunset at Balboa Park

BALBOA PARK, SAN DIEGO, CA, USA

courtesy of:  https://www.facebook.com/ats.tran.5?fref=nf

Christmas at Old Globe Theater, Balboa Park

Old Globe Theater, Balboa Park, San Diego, CA, USA

courtesy of:  https://www.facebook.com/SamAntonioPhotography/

Botanical Building, Balboa Park

Botanical Building, Balboa Park, San Diego, CA, USA

courtesy of:  http://celebratebalboapark.org/

Hospitality House at Balboa Park

Hospitality House, Balboa Park, San Diego, CA, USA

courtesy of:  https://www.facebook.com/walter.o.koenig?fref=nf

SAN DIEGO DEC, 2015 FUN EVENTS

December 1 – 31, LEGOLAND Holiday Snow Days and Winter Nights

Build a snowman with LEGO® accessories and throw real snowballs at colorful targets. Ride snow tubes down a hill. Experience the magic of Winter Nights with shows, music, and twinkling lights. There’s even a food truck with yummy treats served by Santa’s Elves. Stay for the nightly fireworks over Miniland USA, December 26-30.

Time: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Price: Free with admission

Location: One LEGOLAND Dr., Carlsbad, CA 92008

For more info.:  california.legoland.com/holidaysnowdays

December 2 – 27, Festival of Christmas

San Diego’s favorite Holiday Play with Music. For 2015 we present All I Want For Christmas by Associate Artistic Director, Kerry Meads. This year’s script is set in San Diego’s “Little Italy” district. The year is 1949 and the sleepy little town is going through big changes. It’s a memorable holiday show filled with song, dance, laughter and love…and great music of the season. A perfect show for the entire family!

Time: 2:00 PM to 10:00 PM

Price: $24-$78

Location: 1142 Orange Ave., Coronado, CA 92118

For more info:  619.437.6000 or visit www.lambsplayers.org/show.php?id=362

December 4, Coronado Christmas Parade & Open House

Festivities kick off at the Ferry Landing with Santa arriving at 3:20 PM, with carolers and snow fun at snow mountain. Also, at the Hotel del, experience ice skating like no other- you can ice skate on the beach!

Time: 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Price: Free

Location: 1201 1st Street, Coronado, CA 92118

For more info:  619.435.7242 or visit www.coronadochamber.com/holiday-parade-and-open-house.html

December 4 – 5, Balboa Park December Nights

Balboa Park December Nights, the nation’s premier holiday festival, will take place for the 38th consecutive year. As always, the event brings families and friends together to spread holiday joy.

Time:12:00 PM to 11:00 PM, Friday starts at 3:00 PM

Price: Free

Location: House of Hospitality, San Diego, CA 92101

For more info:  www.balboapark.org/decembernights

December 4 – 23, Holiday Wonderland at Petco Park

Holiday Wonderland is back at Petco Park for the second year and it’s bigger and better than ever. Be transported through a spectacular holiday wonderland full of fun for the entire family for 12 nights in December.

Time: 4:30 PM to 9:30 PM

Price: Adult – $15 Child – $10 Kids Under 3 – Free Military

Location: 100 Park Blvd., San Diego, CA 92101

For more info:   sandiego.padres.mlb.com/sd/ticketing/holiday.jsp

December 4, Brew School’d Improv Comedy at Cellar 3

Earn your Honorary Doctorate in beer with four very questionable geniuses and one guy who really knows his brews. Five beer experts take the stage, but four have backstories that are almost too wild to believe! Can you guess which one of your Cicerone for the night is the real deal and who is all suds? Taste along with the on-stage experts throughout the show. Tickets include 4 beer tasting.

Time: 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Price: $20

Location: 12260 Crosthwaite Cir., Poway, CA 92064

For more info:  858.263.3883

December 5 – 30, Garden of Lights

After the sun goes down in December, the Garden is transformed into a dazzling winter wonderland with over 100,000 sparkling lights illuminating the Garden for a magical holiday experience!

Time: 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Price: Members – $8 Non-members – $14

Location: 5230 Quail Gardens Dr., Encinitas, CA 92024

For more info:  760.436.3036 or visit www.sdbgarden.org/lights.htm

December 5, North Park Toyland Parade & Festival

Unwrap some magic this holiday season and partake in the festive fun, at the 52nd Annual North Park Toyland Parade & Holiday Fair. The historic neighborhood of North Park will warmly welcome friends and family to bundle up and delight in San Diego’s most joyful parade.

Time: 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM

Price: Free

Location: University Avenue, San Diego, CA 92104

For more info:  www.toylandparade.com

December 5, Chula Vista Starlight Parade

Holiday cheer is near! The Chula Vista Starlight Parade is back and brighter and bigger than ever and will be taking place Saturday, December 5th, 2015! The parade will immediately follow the Third Avenue Village Association’s Holiday in the Village event.

Time: 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM, parade starts at 6:00 PM

Price: Free

Location: 353 3rd Ave., Chula Vista, CA 91910

For more info:  www.starlightparade.com

December 5, Holiday Tree Lighting & Winter Wonderland Festival

Holiday Tree Lighting and Winter Wonderland Festival is an annual community event where we bring the North Pole to the heart of Escondido. Children will have the chance to frolic in real snow, decorate their very own Christmas cookies, and create fun, hand-made gifts for their loved ones.

Time: 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Price: Free

Location: 340 N Escondido Blvd., Escondido, CA 92025

For more info:  800.988.4253 or visit artcenter.org/event/holiday-tree-lighting-festival

December 6, 2015 SoNo Fest & Chili Cook-Off

Chili + beer + holiday shopping + kids fun fest = one perfect Sunday in December. Mark your calendar for the 6th annual SoNo Fest & Chili Cook Off.

Time: 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Price: Free admission (Chili Bowl and 5 Tastings – $20)

Location: Thorn & 32nd Streets in North Park

For more info:  www.sonofestchilicookoff.com

December 6, La Jolla Christmas Parade & Holiday Festival

Spread some holiday cheer at the Annual La Jolla Christmas Parade & Holiday Festival in downtown La Jolla. The event includes marching bands, floats, equestrian units, vintage automobiles and an appearance by Santa Claus.

Time: 1:30 PM to 5:00 PM

Price: Free

Location: Girard Ave. & Prospect St., La Jolla, CA 92037

For more info:  www.ljparade.com

December 12, Breakfast with Santa

Santa Claus is coming – to the Safari Park! He’ll be here for breakfast, and would love to see you and your family. Gather at the Safari Park’s scenic Kilima Point for a delicious and bountiful breakfast with the jolly ol’ elf himself. You’ll also enjoy a visit with some of our animal ambassadors.

Time: 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM

Price:  $24.95 Children Ages 3-11 – $15.95

Location: 15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd., Escondido, CA 92027

For more info:  619.718.3000 or visit www.sdzsafaripark.org/dining-events

December 12, Poway’s Christmas in the Park

Are you looking for a great way to get into the holiday spirit and create family memories that will last a lifetime? Witness Christmas traditions come to life!

Time: 3:30 PM to 8:30 PM

Price: Free

Location: 14134 Midland Rd., Poway, CA 92064

For more info:  858.668.4576 or visit www.poway.org

December 12, Mission Bay Christmas Boat Parade of Lights

This free, distinctly California celebration features boats decorated for the annual holiday season that will sail around Mission Bay. A highly anticipated event in the San Diego community, dozens of vessels take to the water for the parade.

Time: 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Price: Free

Location: 1215 El Carmel Place, San Diego, CA 92109

For more info:  858.488.0501 or visit www.mbyc.org

December 12, Oceanside Harbor Parade of Lights

Fishing boats, sail boats, yachts, kayaks and dingys dressed up in holiday swag and circle the Oceanside Harbor to enchant onlookers at the harbor, restaurants and beach.

Time: 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Price: Free

Location: Oceanside Harbor, Oceanside, CA 92054

For more info:  www.visitoceanside.org

December 13, Gaslamp Holiday Pet Parade

Deck those paws with bells so jolly and jingle all the way through the Gaslamp Quarter for the Gaslamp Holiday Pet Parade presented by Downtown Ace Hardware and Market Street Veterinary Clinic.

Time: 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM

Price: Free, $15 to participate

Location: 401 K Street, San Diego, CA 92101

For more info:  619.233.5227 or visit www.gaslamp.org/pet-parade

December 24 – 25, The Magic of Christmas

Experience the magic of the holidays at the Westgate! Celebrate the holidays with family and friends at the Westgate hotel. Enjoy a refined four-course dinner in the Westgate Room or experience a lavish Christmas Day Buffet in the elegant Le Fontainebleau Room.

Time: 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Price: Starting at $62

Location: 1055 Second Ave., San Diego, CA 92101

For more info:  619.238.1818 or visit www.westgatehotel.com

December 30, Port of San Diego Big Bay Balloon Parade 

America’s largest balloon parade contains many massive air balloons plus motorized floats, marching bands, community groups, and drill teams. Cheering crowds align the streets to watch them pass by. This event is in conjunction with a 5K run, wiener dog race, and a family festival.

Time: 9:30 AM to 7:30 PM

Price: visit website

Location: Harbor Dr./Cedar St. – Harbor Dr. – Pacific Hwy.

For more info:  sandiegobowlgames.com/parade

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courtesy of:  

IVAN SOLIS, JR.  / Sr. Sales Executive / Ivan.Solis@Title365.com  / (619) 804-9000

KRISTINE COSTA / Sales Executive / Kristine.Costa@Title365.com

Title 365 / 8880 Rio San Diego Drive / Suite 1100 / San Diego, CA 92108 / (619) 857-6347

San Diego’s Historic Hotel Del ……

Hotel del Coronado:
(also known as The Del and Hotel Del) is a beachfront luxury hotel in the city of Coronado, just across the San Diego Bay from San Diego, California. It is one of the few surviving examples of an American architectural genre: the wooden Victorian beach resort. It is one of the oldest and largest all-wooden buildings in California and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1977, and is a designated California Historical Landmark.
When it opened in 1888, it was the largest resort hotel in the world. It has hosted presidents, royalty, and celebrities through the years.

courtesy of:  https://www.facebook.com/GLBrannock

San Diego’s Main Central Library

San Diego’s New Main Central Library at Park Blvd.
366,673 square ft, 9 story, more than a million books

courtesy of:  https://www.facebook.com/

SAN DIEGO NOV, 2015 FUN EVENTS

Nov 01 – Jan 3, Ingenious! The World of Dr. Seuss

The highly popular traveling Dr. Seuss exhibition will include signature elements for the Balboa Park Centennial, emphasizing San Diego as the renowned author’s home and Theodor Geisel as the world’s most celebrated children’s author and an innovator.

Time: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Price: call for info.

Location: 1649 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101

For more info. call 619.232.6203 or visit www.sandiegohistory.org/Ingenious_TheWorldofSeuss

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Nov 1 – 2, Old Town San Diego’s Day of the Dead

Día de los Muertos, celebrated on November 1 and 2 of each year, is considered to be one of the most important holiday’s of the year by many in Mexico and other Latin American countries. The unity between life and death is celebrated when families come together and offer hospitality to the spirits of their loved ones.

Time: visit website

Price: Free

Location: 2613 San Diego Ave., San Diego, CA 92110

For more info: visit www.dayofthedeadsd.com

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Nov 1, Celebration Run San Diego Half Marathon & 5K

From the starting line party to the finish line festival, we will keep you motivated and motivated as we celebrate together. This is more than just a race – it’s a celebration!

Time: 5:30 AM to 12:00 PM

Price: $20-$120

Location: 1100 W Mission Bay Dr., San Diego, CA 92109

For more info. visit www.celebrationrun.com

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Nov 1, 2015 Carlsbad Fall Village Faire

Each year, the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce hosts the faire in May and November. Now in its 41st year, the free event has grown to be so popular that it not only continually attracts people from all over Southern California, but also from other states. Some visitors even plan their vacations around the bi-annual event. 

Time: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Price: Free

Location: Grand Ave. between Carlsbad Blvd. and Jefferson St., Carlsbad CA 92008

For more info.: visit www.carlsbad.org

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Nov 2, Amigos del REP presents Historias Tenebrosas

Cultural holidays, Halloween and Dia de Los Muertos come together as Amigos del REP perform “Historias Tenebrosas” in a thrilling, chilling multi-staged reader’s theatre storytelling event fun for the entire family.

 

Time: 7:00 PM to 9:30 PM

Price: Free

Location: 79 Horton Plaza, San Diego, CA 92101

For more info. call 619.544.1000 or visit www.sdrep.org/showinfo.php?showid=241

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Nov 5 – 14, San Diego Asian Film Festival

San Diego is home to the largest Asian Film Festival on the West Coast and features more than 130 films from 15 different countries at five different venues in San Diego. Experience national and international films, get up close and personal with filmmakers and cast with Q&A and photo opportunities.

 

Time: call for info.

Price: $15 (individual) / $150-$250 (passes)

Location: 7510 Hazard Center Dr., San Diego, CA 92108

For more info. call 619.400.5911 or visit festival.sdaff.org

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Nov 6 – 15, San Diego Beer Week

Building off the success of the past five San Diego Beer Weeks, the San Diego Brewers Guild is preparing for San Diego Beer Week 2015 (SDBW), November 5-15. San Diego Beer Week is a ten-day celebration inspiring people to drink local, craft beer and promoting San Diego’s thriving brewing culture with multiple events happening across the county.

Time: call for info.

Price: Varies

Location: 7510 Hazard Center Dr., San Diego, CA 92108

For more info. call 858.450.9277 or visit www.sdbw.org

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Nov 6 – 7, Brewers Guild Festival

Join us for the 13th Annual San Diego Brewers Guild Festival at the Port Pavilion on Broadway Pier in downtown San Diego. This two-day event is the official kickoff of San Diego Beer Week. Enjoy samples from more than 50 San Diego County breweries!

Time: 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM

Price: $15-$100

Location: 1000 N. Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92101

For more info. visit sdbw.org/guild-festival

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Nov 14, Escondido Tamale Festival

The event will feature local celebrity chef judges Chef Claudia Sandoval, winner of MasterChef Season 6 and Executive Chef James Montejano 

from San Diego’s La Valencia Hotel! Great food, live music & 

entertainment, tamale contests, chihuahua costume contest!

 

Time: 10:30 AM to 4:30 PM

Price: Free, VIP Experience – $35

Location: 321 N Broadway, Escondido, CA 92025

For more info. call 760.839.4777 or visit visitescondido.com/7761/escondido-tamale-festival

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Nov 15 – 22, San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival

The San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival returns to America’s Finest City November 15-22, 2015, and is bigger and better than ever. Food, wine, and local enthusiasts can expect to see exciting new additions throughout the week as well as the return of festival classics such as the iconic Grand Tasting and signature Taco TKO Fish Taco Competition.

Time: call for info.

Price: Varies by event

Location: 7510 Hazard Center Dr., San Diego, CA 92108

For more info. call 619.342.7337 visit www.sandiegowineclassic.com

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Nov 19 – Jan 3, Fantasy on Ice

Ice skating? Outside? In San Diego? Yes! Sycuan and Rady Children’s Hospital Auxiliary are teaming up to present Fantasy on Ice with support from SENTRE Partners, NBC 7 San Diego, Liberty Station and many Friends of Rady Children’s.

Time: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM

Price: $10-$14

Location: 2640 Historic Decatur Rd., San Diego, CA 92106

For more info. call 619.222.1970 or visit fantasyonicesd.com

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Nov 21, 69th Annual Mother Goose Parade

The largest parade in San Diego County is also the largest of its type west of the Mississippi. Each year, the Mother Goose Parade attracts thousands of spectators to the streets of El Cajon.

Time: 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM

Price: Free

Location: call for info.

For more info. call 619.444.8712 visit www.mgpelcajon.com

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Nov 21 – Jan 3, SeaWorld Christmas Celebration

Where can you find Shamu, Santa and sea lions this holiday season? SeaWorld, of course! It’s all part of SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration®, kicking off November 21.

 

Time: call for info.

Price: with admission 

Location: 2640 Historic Decatur Rd., San Diego, CA 92106

For more info. call 800.257.4268 or visit www.seaworldsandiego.com

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Nov 24 – 29, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, the smash hit Broadway musical, is coming to San Diego! Based on the Academy Award-winning animated feature film, this eye-popping spectacle has won the hearts of over 35 million people worldwide.

Time: call for info.

Price: Starting at $23.50 

Location: 3666 Fourth Ave., San Diego, CA 92103

For more info. call 619.564.3000 or visit www.broadwaysd.com/beauty-and-the-beast.htm

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Nov 25 – 29, San Diego Jazz Fest

The 36th San Diego Jazz Fest over Thanksgiving will present a variety of traditional jazz music, from ragtime to swing to Dixieland at the Town & Country Resort and Hotel in Hotel Circle. Jazz bands and musicians from across the U.S. will perform.

Time: call for info.

Price: $20-$50

Location: 500 Hotel Cir. North, San Diego, CA 92108

For more info. call 619.297.5277 visit www.sdjazzfest.org

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 Nov 25 – 30, Thanksgiving Camping Weekend

Camping on Thanksgiving has become a Tradition! We’re thankful to have you with us over this long weekend. Our registered guests will enjoy an outdoor movie, autumn crafts, and your favorite outdoor activities!

 

Time: call for info.

Price: See website for current prices.

Location: 111 N Second Ave., Chula Vista, CA 91910

For more info. call 619.427.3601 or visit koa.com/campgrounds/san-diego/events

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courtesy of:  

IVAN SOLIS, JR.  / Title365 / Ivan.Solis@Title365.com / 619.804.9000

Balboa Park Named One Of Nation’s 6 Great Public Spaces

 

 

Fountain in front of  San Diego Museum of Art in Balboa Park.                  Photo by Katie Schoolov

Balboa Park in San Diego was designated by the American Planning Association Thursday as one of the nation’s six great public spaces in conjunction with National Community Planning Month.

The American Planning Association cited the 1,200-acre park’s variety of uses, with a zoo, museums, performance areas, golf course, dog park and trails. Balboa Park, opened for the 1915 Panama California Exhibition, is celebrating its centennial this year.

Other locations on American Planning Association’s Great Places in America list are:

— the Santa Fe Railyard in Santa Fe, New Mexico, a disused rail hub that underwent extensive renovations and now includes a large farmers market, gardens and gathering spaces;

— Hermann Park in Houston, a 445-acre attraction adjacent to Rice University that’s much like Balboa Park in that it includes a zoo, museums and other amenities;

— Flint Farmers Market in Flint, Michigan, a 110-year-old operation that serves residents of the economically disadvantaged downtown area;

— Millenium Park, Chicago, a 24.5-acre area that serves as an urban gathering spot on what used to be in what the American Planning Association called an “industrial wasteland;” and

— Pearl Street Mall, Boulder, Colorado, a four-block commercial area more than 100 years old.

“Public spaces are essential as gathering places and recreational venues in our communities, and designing them to be innovative, multifunctional, and culturally beneficial requires thoughtful collaboration and planning,” said American Planning Association President Carol Rhea. “The Great Public Spaces of 2015 illustrate how to effectively create spaces that enhance the lives of residents and visitors alike, and we commend them on this tremendous achievement.”

The public will have the opportunity to suggest an additional favorite public space, neighborhood, or street to earn a People’s Choice designation, according to the American Planning Association.

During the first half of October, individuals can offer suggestions via American Planning Association’s social media channels using the hashtag #greatplaces. American Planning Association will select five finalists, after which the public can visit the organization’s website to vote for a favorite.

The “People’s Choice” winner will be announced in early November. The American Planning Association said it plans to promote the winner on its website and social media outlets, and will host a local celebration.

courtesy of:  http://www.kpbs.org/news/2015/oct/01/

SAN DIEGO OCT, 2015 FUN EVENTS

Sept. 25 – Nov. 1, The Haunted Hotel   Spine tingling, heart pounding effects that are so real they will keep you screaming for your life as you try to find your way out. Time/Place: See website for schedule. / 424 Market, San Diego Contact: (619) 231-0131 / www.hauntedhotel.com

Sept. 25 – Nov. 1, The Haunted Trail   Enter the mile long Trail through the twisted grove of pines and gnarled oaks. Visitors watch your back! Time/Place: See website for schedule. / Balboa Park Contact: (619) 231-0131 / http://www.hauntedtrail.net

Sept. 25 – Nov. 1, The Scream Zone   A year-to-year favorite is the House of Horror, along with our newest attraction known as KarnEvil, and the Haunted Hayride. Time/Place: See website for schedule. / Del Mar Fairgrounds Contact: (858) 755-1161 / http://www.thescreamzone.com

Sept. 30 – Oct. 4, San Diego Film Festival  Independent films, filmmakers, actors, panels and parties. Produced by the nonprofit San Diego Film Foundation. Time/Place: See website for schedule. / Reading Cinemas, Gaslamp Quarter &  ArcLight Cinemas, La Jolla Contact: (619) 818-2221 / http://www.sdfilmfest.com

Oct. 1, An Outside Perspective: The Impossible Railroad  An Outside Perspective invites visitors to explore issues emerging from the exhibitions on view. Learn about the history of the rail industry in San Diego and its relationship to the 1915 Panama-California Exposition. / Time: 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM / Price: Members – Free  |  Students and seniors – $8  |  Nonmembers – $10 / Location: 1001 Kettner Blvd at Broadway, SD, CA 92101 / For more info.: visit www.mcasd.org

Oct. 2 – 31, Boomont Park Fall Festival and Haunt  Boomont Park is back with even more family-friendly Halloween festivities and fun during this month-long event! / Time: 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM / Price: Entry to Festival – Free Rides and Some Activities / Location: 3146 Mission Blvd., San Diego, CA 92109 / For more info. call 858.228.9283 or visit www.belmontpark.com

Oct. 2 – 3, La Mesa Oktoberfest  A tradition for our community is the annual Oktoberfest. This activity brings visitors and vendors from all over the region to La Mesa for a weekend dedicated to family, friends, great food and entertainment. / Time: 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM / Price: Free / Location: Spring Street and La Mesa Boulevard / For more info.: visit www.lmvma.com

Oct. 2 – 4, MCAS Miramar Air Show  Welcome to Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, home of the 3d Marine Aircraft Wing and the largest military air show in the nation. The theme for the 2015 MCAS Miramar Air Show, which runs October 2-4 2015 is “A Salute to Veterans and Their Families.” We take great pride in the men and women who fight our country’s battles and the families who support them. / Time: see website / Price: Free, preferred seating – $30-$300 / Location: Marine Corps Air Station Miramar / For more info. visit www.miramarairshow.com

Oct. 2 – 25, Rise of the Jack O’ Lanterns  Lighting up the night this October at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park in Escondido is the most unique and iconic family-friendly fall event, RISE of the Jack O’Lanterns! See more than 5,000 hand-carved illuminated Jack O’ Lanterns created by professional artists and sculptors arranged in creative ways along a 1/3-mile scenic walking trail all set to an original music score produced exclusively for The RISE! / Time: call or visit website / Price: $22-$30 / Location: 15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd. Escondido / For more info.: visit www.TheRise.org

Oct. 2 – 11, Oktoberfest in El Cajon  Come and enjoy authentic German food, such as bratwurst, ox-on-the-spit, potato salad, potato pancakes, sauerkraut, red cabbage and a variety of German pastries. We offer a great selection of German beers and liquors, and soft drinks and water, to enjoy with your friends and family! / Time: 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM / Price: Adults – $5, Under 21 & Active Military – Free / Location: 1017 South Mollison Avenue, El Cajon / For more info. call 619-442-6637 or  www.oktoberfestelcajon.com

Oct. 3, Pacific BeachFest  Visitors and residents of San Diego are welcome to “Discover the Action” this year at the annual Pacific BeachFest. This one-day event is perfect for visitors looking to enjoy all that San Diego beaches have to offer. / Time: 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM / Price: Free / Location: Pacific Beach Boardwalk between Diamond Street and Thomas Street, San Diego, CA 92109 / For more info.: call 858.273.3303 or visit www.pacificbeachfest.org

Oct. 3, Wienerschnitzel Wiener Nationals  The 19th annual Wienerschnitzel Wiener Nationals kicks off in San Diego at Qualcomm Stadium. The top sixteen dogs from the qualifying round will advance to the San Diego final at the Del Mar Race Track. The top dogs from San Diego will advance to the championship at the Port of San Diego Holiday Bowl Balloon Parade. / Time: 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM / Price: $10 for participating dachshunds. Free for humans and non-racing dogs. / Location:  Qualcomm Stadium Rugby Fields / For more info. call 619.283.5808 or visit sandiegobowlgames.com/wiener-dog-races

Oct. 3, Carlsbad Oktoberfest  Be a part of this Carlsbad premier tradition with several hundred of your closest friends, family and neighbors for a day of great food, awesome music, and festive fun. / Time: 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM / Price: Children – Free / Adult In Advance – $12 / Adult Day of – $15 / Location: Chestnut Avenue and Pio Pico Drive, Carlsbad / For more info.: visit www.rotaryoktoberfest.org

Oct. 3, Planting Hope Gala   Cocktail reception, three-course dinner, live music, inspiring stories of restoration, and an opportunity to support the life-changing work of Plant With Purpose. Time/Place: 5:30pm / Omni La Costa Resort & Spa: 2100 Costa Del Mar Road, Carlsbad   Contact: (800) 633-5319 / http://www.plantwithpurpose.org/gala/

Oct. 3 – 30, LegoLand Brick-or-Treat Party Nights  Brick-or-Treat Party Nights is back and better than ever! It’s a one-of-a-kind party every Saturday Night in October, PLUS Friday, October 30 from 5:00 to 9:00 PM. / Time: 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM / Price: $70-$90 Evening Only – $35-$45 / Location: One LEGOLAND Dr., Carlsbad, CA 92008 / For more info. visit california.legoland.com/BOT

Oct. 5, San Diego Music Awards   Presents awards recognizing many different genres of music. Time/Place: 7pm / Humphreys Concerts by the Bay: 2241 Shelter Island Drive, San Diego Contact: www.sandiegomusicawards.com

Oct. 7-18, Del Mar International Horse Show   The world-class competition attracts an elite field of internationally recognized horses and riders. Time/Place: See website for schedule. / Del Mar Fairgrounds   Contact: (858) 755-1161 / http://www.delmarfairgrounds.com

Oct. 9 – 11, Without Walls Festival 2015  This year’s event boasts numerous collaborations with renowned San Diego theatre and dance companies, along with several national and international artists. / Date:  2015 / Time: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM / Price: visit website / Location: 2910 La Jolla Village Dr., La Jolla, CA 92037 / For more info.: Call 858.550.1075 visit lajollaplayhouse.org/wowfestival

Oct. 10, Julian Cider Run  BBQ lunch, cider samples, apple pie, music & games at a private home with a beautiful view in Julian. All motorcycles & other forms of transportation welcome.   Time/Place: 9:30am / Address given upon RSVP Contact: (619) 296-2135 / http://www.aseltine.org

Oct. 10, Fall Festival for Families   A great chance to get your kids outdoors to discover their environment, enjoy nature and share art and music. Time/Place: 10am-3pm / Alta Vista Gardens: 1270 Vale Terrace, Vista Contact: http://www.avbg.org

Oct. 10, Carnival 4 Canines & Friends   A community event for the whole family with the focus on responsible pet ownership. Time/Place: 10am-2pm / Lake Jennings Park: 9535 Harritt Rd. Contact: http://www.facebook.com/carnival4canines

Oct. 10 – 11, Cardiff Surf Classic & Green Fair  Grassroots community event that pays homage to our Earth. Time/Place: 9am-5pm / Cardiff Reed Contact: (760) 436-0431 / http://www.cardiffsurfclassic.com

Oct.10 – 11, La Jolla Art & Wine Festival  The 2015 La Jolla Art & Wine Festival returns to La Jolla for its seventh annual season on October 10th and 11th in the heart of the village, on Girard Ave. / Time: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, Sunday until 6:00 PM / Price: Free / Location: Girard Ave. and Prospect St., La Jolla, CA 92037 / For more info.: Call 858.228.6542 visit www.ljawf.com

Oct.10, Old Town’s Fall Festival  Old Town San Diego State Historic Park is kicking off the fall season October 10 with its annual Fall Festival. The museums and merchants in the state park will host family-friendly games, activities and entertainment reminiscent of an old-fashioned harvest celebration. / Time: 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM / Price: Free / Location: Old Town San Diego State Historic Park / For more info. visit www.parks.ca.gov/oldtownsandiego

Oct. 11, Little Italy FESTA!  Now, the Little Italy Festa is the largest Italian American festival on the West Coast. Hip and Historic Little Italy welcomes over 120,000 attendees with the tantalizing sights, sounds and aromas of Italian culture. / Time: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM / Price: Free / Location: 2210 Columbia St., San Diego, CA 92101 / For more info.: visit www.littleitalysd.com

Oct 13 – 24, San Diego Italian Film Festival  The ninth annual San Diego Italian Film Festival showcases the best of new Italian film and culture with a series of premieres ranging from engaging dramas and entertaining comedies to documentaries telling unique stories. / Time: visit website / Price: Starting at $8 / Location: 1649 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101 / For more info. visit www.sandiegoitalianfilmfestival.com

Oct. 17, Walk to End Alzheimer’s   There is no cost to walk, however we highly encourage you to join/start a team and fundraise to help find a cure. Time/Place: 6:30am / Balboa Park Contact: (858) 966-3319 / www.act.alz.org

 Oct.18, Safari Park’s Oktoberfest Celebration  Enjoy a delicious and bountiful dinner buffet to celebrate Oktoberfest at the Safari Park. There will be live music and a convenient cash bar. Families are welcome! / Time: 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM / Price: Members: Adult – $44.95 Children – $18.95 Nonmembers: Adult – $57.95 Children – $31.95 / Location: 15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd., Escondido / For more info.: Call 619.718.3000 or visit sdzsafaripark.org/dining-events

Oct. 22, 3rd Annual Whiskey & Wine BBQ  We are excited to celebrate our very own hand-selected Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Whiskey and our wonderful partner Trinitas Cellars with our 3rd Annual Whiskey & Wine BBQ. / Time: 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM / Price: Tickets start at $80 per person / Location: 9700 N Torrey Pines Rd., La Jolla, CA 92037 / For more info. Call 844.806.2529 or visit estancialajolla.com

Oct. 24, Out Of The Darkness Community Walk   Benefits local and national suicide prevention and awareness programs of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. Time/Place: 8:30am / NTC Park at Liberty Station / Contact: http://afsp.donordrive.com

Oct. 30, The Orange & Black Ball   A masquerade gala to raise awareness and funds that benefit the museum’s art education and outreach programs. Time/Place: 6pm-12am / Balboa Park: Timken Museum / Contact: (619) 239-5548 / http://www.timkenmuseum.org

Oct. 31, Monster Bash   San Diego’s biggest Halloween Block Party returns transforming over eight city blocks into the largest Halloween event in California. Time/Place: 6pm / Gaslamp Quarter & East Village / Contact: (619) 233-5008 / www.SanDiegoMonsterBash.com

Oct. 30, Hallo-wine and Spirits® Party  Celebrate Halloween at San Diego’s famous haunted hotel on Friday, October 30. Don your best costume and join us for the 6th annual, adults-only, “Hallo-wine and Spirits” Party full of spooky surroundings, great eats, delicious wines and dancing until you drop! / Time: 7:00 PM to 11:45 PM / Price: visit website / Location: 1500 Orange Ave., Coronado, CA 92118 / For more info.: visit hoteldel.com/events/hallowine

Oct. 25 – Dec. 31, Monsters!  Find out what’s hiding under the bed! See beasts familiar and strange, real and imagined, kind-hearted and troublesome, from across the span of human history and culture! You’ll learn where they come from, what they look like, how they behave, and how to defeat them! / Time: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM / Price: Included with Admission / Location: 1350 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101 / For more info. Call 619.239.2001 or visit www.museumofman.org/monsters

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courtesy of:  

IVAN SOLIS, JR.  / Title365 / Ivan.Solis@Title365.com  / (619) 804-9000

FIRST AMERICAN TITLE / sandiegocs@firstam.com / (619) 742-0193

Leading Economic Indicators, July 2015

August 31, 2015 — The USD Burnham-Moores Center for Real Estate’s Index of Leading Economic Indicators for San Diego County fell 0.4 percent in July. Five of the six components in the Index were down, led by big drops in initial claims for unemployment insurance and help wanted advertising. Down more moderately was consumer confidence and the outlook for the national economy. Building permits were also negative, but only slightly so. The only positive component was local stock prices, which were up strongly in July.

July’s decrease broke a string of thirteen consecutive monthly increases in the USD Index. Although the increase in the Index had slowed in recent months, the decline was unexpected as a couple of recently strong components (building permits and the outlook for the national economy) turned negative. Despite the drop and despite concern that five of the six components were negative, the outlook for positive growth in the local economy remains unchanged for now. Economists look for three consecutive changes in a leading index as a signal of a turning point in an economy, so the months ahead are critical. The numbers for the local economy remain good at this moment, with the unemployment rate at 5 percent and year-over-year job growth approaching 50,000. But there is concern about the deterioration of the labor market components in the Index (see below), and these need to be watched carefully in the months ahead, particularly in light of the recently announced layoffs at Qualcomm.

Index of Leading Economic Indicators The index for San Diego County that includes the components listed below (July) Source: USD Burnham-Moores Center for Real Estate	-0.4%
Building Permits Residential units authorized by building permits in San Diego County (July) Source: U.S. Census Bureau	-0.09%
Unemployment Insurance Initial claims for unemployment insurance in San Diego County, inverted (July) Source: Employment Development Department	-1.38%
Stock Prices San Diego Stock Exchange Index (July) Source: San Diego Daily Transcript	+1.23%
Consumer Confidence An index of consumer confidence in San Diego County , estimated (July) Source: The Conference Board	-0.51%
Help Wanted Advertising An index of online help wanted advertising in San Diego (July) Source: The Conference Board	-1.03%
National Economy Index of Leading Economic Indicators (July) Source: The Conference Board	-0.48%

Highlights:  Although the decline in residential units authorized by building permits was minor, it broke a string of six consecutive monthly increases in the component, with all six of those increases being significant. This drop was due to permits for only 207 multi-family units being authorized in July, which is the lowest number for any month this year. . . After turning negative for the first time in months in June, both labor market components accelerated their moves to the downside in July. Initial claims for unemployment insurance jumped above the 16,000 mark for the first time since last August, while help wanted advertising hit its lowest level since October. This has not been reflected yet in the local labor market, where seasonally adjusted local unemployment rate was 5.0 percent in July. This was up compared to the 4.8 percent rate in June but down a lot from the 6.5 percent rate in July 2014. . . Local stock prices did well in July, matching the performance of the broader market averages. Local stocks had run counter to the broader averages the last two months. With the recent turmoil in the markets, though, this component is likely to turn negative for August. . . Sentiment among consumers continues to fall, with local consumer confidence dropping for the third consecutive month, with the trend being more negative with each month. . . The national Index of Leading Economic Indicators dropped for the first time since February. As was the case with building permits, the drop came even though the component had been up strongly in recent months. Similar to the local Index, it remains to be seen whether this is a one month aberration or whether this signals a negative turning point for the national economy. GDP growth for the second quarter was strong, with the “second” estimate coming in at a higher than expected 3.7 percent annualized rate. This compares to the “advance” estimate of 2.3 percent and a growth rate of 0.6 percent in the first quarter.

July’s increase puts the USD Index of Leading Economic Indicators for San Diego County at 139.6, down from June’s reading of 140.1. There were revisions in the previously reported values of the Index for March and April and in the changes in the Index for March and May.

          Index      % Change

2014   

JUL     128.0           +0.3

AUG    128.3           +0.3

SEP     129.0           +0.5

OCT    129.7           +0.5

NOV    131.4           +1.3

DEC    132.4           +0.7

2015  

JAN     134.2           +1.4

FEB     135.8           +1.2

MAR    137.7           +1.4

APR    138.9           +0.8

MAY    139.6           +0.5

JUN     140.1           +0.4

JUL     139.6         -0.4

For more information on the University of San Diego’s Index of Leading Economic Indicators, please contact:

Professor Alan Gin                             TEL: (858) 603-3873

School of Business Administration       FAX: (858) 260-4891

University of San Diego                 E-mail: agin@sandiego.edu

5998 Alcalá Park                             Website: http://www.sandiego.edu/~agin/usdlei

San Diego, CA 92110                        Twitter: @alanginusdsba

 

 

SAN DIEGO SEPT, 2015 FUN EVENTS

September 4, Party in the Park

Join San Diego’s biggest happy hour at Party in the Park before every Friday game. Live music and entertainment.

Time: 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM

Price: Check website for seat pricing

Location: 2455 Cushing Rd., San Diego, CA 92106

For more info: padres.com/party

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September 4 – 6, 45th Annual Barona Powwow

Join the Barona Band of Mission Indians for a weekend of contest dancing in all categories, camping, drums and cultural immersion. Dancers will be competing for over $60,000 in prize money!

Time: see website

Price: Free

Location: 1095 Barona Road, Lakeside, CA 92040

For more info:  www.barona-nsn.gov

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September 5, Julian Grape Stomp Fiesta

Every September the Julian Chamber of Commerce celebrates the harvest of the grapes with a real, old-world style grape stomp and fiesta at the Menghini Winery. This grape stomp out-does all others by providing two barrels for stomping – one for adults and one for children.

Time: 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM

Price: $5-$15

Location: 1150 Julian Orchards Dr., Julian, CA 92036

For more info: call 760.765.1857 or www.julianca.com

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September 7, Labor Day Lunch Cruise on San Diego Bay

Red, white and cruise! Get out on the Bay during the first day of the summer season. Enjoy a lavish lunch buffet featuring a savory selection of all your favorite dishes including free-flowing beer and champagne.

Time: 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM

Price: Adults Starting at – $62.95 Price subject to change

Location: 1800 N. Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92101

For more info: 619.686.8715 or www.hornblower.com/port/overview/sd+labordaybbq

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September 8, Before 1915: Balboa Park’s Early History

Nancy Carol Carter, horticultural historian, will discuss how Balboa Park weathered 47 turbulent years before the world swept into San Diego to visit the Panama-California Exposition of 1915.

Time: 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM

Price: Free

Location: 9001 Wakarusa Street, La Mesa, CA 91942

For more info: Call 619.232.7931 or visit  www.sdmart.org/calendar/lecture-1915

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September 9, Swashbuckling Movie – Robin Hood: Men in Tights

This summer, the Headquarters at Seaport is hosting free screenings of swashbuckling classics in the center’s open air courtyard.

Time: 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM

Price: Free

Location: 789 West Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92101

For more info. Call 619.686.8715 or visit theheadquarters.com

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September 10, Taste of Downtown

Enjoy tantalizing tastes from more than 50 Restaurants located throughout the Gaslamp Quarter, Headquarters, Financial District and East Village neighborhoods! Complimentary shuttle service.

Date:  2015

Time: 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Price: $30-$35

Location: see website

For more info:  www.downtownsandiego.org

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September 11 – 13, Horrible Imagining Film Festival

The horror genre has long been a staple of film and literature, boasting a significant number of fans and devoted connoisseurs who dedicate much time and money to its exploration.

Time: see website

Price: $10-$80

Location: 1649 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101

For more info: www.hifilmfest.com

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September 12 – 13, Giro di San Diego GranFondo

Southern California meets Italy at the Giro di San Diego Gran Fondo, a celebration of cycling, food, and San Diego’s North Coast.

Time: see website

Price: $10-$174

Location: 150 South Sierra Ave., Solana Beach, CA 92075

For more info:  www.girosandiego.com

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September 12, 2nd Annual Carlsbad Brewfest

Celebrating craft beer with tastings from more than 30 local & national breweries, music, entertainment, games & food vendors.

Date: 2015

Time: 12:00 PM to 4:30 PM

Price: $10-$45

Location: 3400 Pio Pico Dr., Carlsbad, CA 92008

For more info.  www.carlsbadbrewfest.org

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September 12, South Bay Pride Art & Musical Festival

South Bay Pride Art and Music Festival will be a day (and night) of fun for all. The fun starts at noon at the Bayfront Park in Chula Vista, next to the South Bay Harbor on Marina Parkway.

Date:  2015

Time:12:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Price: Free

Location: Bayside Park, Chula Vista, CA 91910

For more info.: southbaypride.org

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September 13, San Diego Brazilian Day Festival

With over 60,000 attendees expected, this is touted as the largest Brazilian festival on the West Coast. A free, fun and family friendly festival, activities include a street fair with more than 150 vendors, food court, kids zone and carnival parade complete with floats. Music from Brazil is the sound for the day with 2 stages for bands and performing groups.

Time: 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM

Price: Free

Location: call for more info.

For more info. Call 619.867.3231 or visit www.bzday.com.br/en

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September 18 – 20, San Diego Bayfair

San Diego Bayfair’s World Series of Powerboat Racing – a family festival tradition for more than 40 years speeds to the finish line.

Time: call for info.

Price:  $20-$250

Location: 1404 Vacation Rd., San Diego, CA 92109

For more info.: Call 760.789.8870 or visit www.sandiegobayfair.org

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September 18 – 20, 21st Annual San Diego Festival of Beer

This year’s Festival will return to  the Broadway Pier. The indoor/outdoor event will feature live music and nearly 60 different breweries serving up 120 varieties of tasty brews.

Time: 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM

Price: $40-$50

Location: 1000 North Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92101

For more info: sdbeerfest.org

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September 20 – 27, San Diego Restaurant Week

This September, San Diego Restaurant Week, presented by Lexus Dealerships of San Diego, will celebrate local…keepin’ it fresh – really fresh.

Time: call for info.

Price: $10-$50

Location: see website

For more info: www.SanDiegoRestaurantWeek.com

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September 20, Encinitas Oktoberfest

The 20th Annual Encinitas Chamber of Commerce Oktoberfest will be held on Sunday, September 20!

Time: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Price: Free

Location: Mountain Vista Drive and El Camino Real, Encinitas, CA 92024

For more info: www.encinitasoktoberfest.com

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September 25 – 26, Poway Rodeo

Professional rodeo cowboys from around the country compete during the 42nd Annual Poway Rodeo.

Time: call for info.

Price: $5-$45

Location: 14336 Tierra Bonita, Poway, CA 92064

For more info.: Call 866.776.7633 or www.powayrodeo.com

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September 26 – 27, 20th Annual Pacific Islander Festival

A free event that showcases the cultures and customs of Melanesia, Micronesia and Polynesia with continuous entertainment throughout the weekend. Held at Mission Bay’s Ski Beach, the event also features food, music and specialty crafts unique to each culture.

Time: call for info.

Price: Free

Location: Vacation Road, San Diego, CA 92109

For more info. Call 619.699.8797 or www.pifasandiego.com

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September 26 – 27, Adams Avenue Street Fair

Southern California’s largest free two-day music festival is held each year during the last weekend in September in the community of Normal Heights. The event also features beer gardens and beer tastings, giant carnival rides, exotic foods and more than 350 arts and crafts booths.

Time: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Price: Free, Craft Beer Test – $20

Location: 34th and Adams Avenue, San Diego, CA 92116

For more info:  www.adamsavenuebusiness.com

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September 26 – November 1, SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular

Where can kids meet some spooky and not-so-spooky animals, pose for pictures with mesmerizing mermaids and trick-or-treat in a sea-inspired atmosphere? It’s all part of SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular, where Halloween meets the sea!

Date: 2015

Time: call for info.

Price: Included with park admission

Location: 500 SeaWorld Dr., San Diego, CA 92109

For more info. Call 800.257.4268 or seaworldparks.com/seaworld-sandiego

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courtesy of:  

IVAN SOLIS, JR.  / Title365 / Ivan.Solis@Title365.com / 619.804.9000

SAN DIEGO AUG, 2015 FUN EVENTS

August 1, Bocce Bash

Join the fun at Liberty Station, Saturday, August 1st for the inaugural Bocce Bash! This fundraiser for the San Diego Bowl Game Association will feature round-robin bocce tournament play, live entertainment, beer provided by New Belgium, and more! No experience needed. Bocce equipment provided. Must be 21 or over to participate.

Time: 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM

Price: Team Registration: $80-$50

Location: 2455 Cushing Rd., San Diego, CA 92106

For more info:  619.283.5808 or visit sandiegobowlgames.com/bocce-bash

August 1, Unleashed by Petco Surf Dog Competition

Get stoked! It’s time for the most adorable surf event of the year. At the Unleashed by Petco Surf Dog Competition, the most fearless dogs will jump on their boards, paddle out and hang 20! This event must be seen to be believed. Bring the whole family for a day of rad competitions, goodies and fun!

Time: 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM

Location: 2 Elder Ave., Imperial Beach, CA 91932

For more info:  unleashedby.petco.com/surfdog

August 2, Summer Pops Goes Classical – A Night in Spain

An elegant, deeply passionate musical visit to Spain. The evening features music from celebrated Spanish composers, including Enrique Granados (Three Spanish Dances), and Manuel de Falla.

Time: 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM

Price: $20-$79

Location: 206 Marina Park Way, San Diego, CA 92101

For more info:  619.283.5808 or purchasing.sandiegosymphony.org/single/eventDetail.aspx?p=4992

August 3, Film in the Garden: The Little Fugitive

Perfectly capturing the magical atmosphere of 1950s Coney Island, The Little Fugitive (1953, not rated) is a charming adventure story told from the perspective of a seven-year-old boy who takes refuge there after mistakenly believing he’s killed his brother.

Time: 7:30 PM to 10:00 PM

Price: Nonmember – $5

Location: 1450 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101

For more info:  619.232.7931 or visit www.sdmart.org/calendar/film-garden-1

August 5, Free Outdoor Concert: SummerFest Under the Stars

Come to the famous La Jolla Cove and join SummerFest Music Director Cho-Liang Lin for a free concert to kick off the festival. Bring your picnic and enjoy this wonderful, family-friendly SummerFest tradition featuring a stunning ocean backdrop!

Time: 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Price: Free

Location: La Jolla Cove, La Jolla, CA 92037

For more info:  858.459.3728 or visit www.LJMS.org

August 7, ScholarShare’s Toddler Time: Story Time

Practice your A-B-C’s and read along with us during our morning story time. Recommended for ages 4 and under.

Time: 10:00 AM to 11:30 PM

Price: Free with admission

Location: 200 W Island Ave., San Diego, CA 92101

For more info:  619.233.8792 or visit www.thinkplaycreate.org

August 8, Farm to Bay Food & Wine Classic

This unforgettable tasting event on San Diego Bay celebrates the sights, sounds and flavors that make San Diego so unique. Farm to Bay is the only local fundraiser that takes place within a national wildlife refuge, set against the beautiful backdrop of San Diego Bay.

Time: 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM

Price: $80

Location: 1000 Gunpowder Point Drive, Chula Vista, CA 91910

For more info:  619.409.5900 or visit www.thelivingcoast.org

 August 14-15, Summer Pops – Sinatra at 100

Ol’ Blue Eyes is back! Frank Sinatra – the most popular male vocalist of the twentieth century never really left us. His music, that unmistakable voice, will play on forever: “Fly Me to the Moon,” “Strangers in the Night” and “My Way,” just to name a few. Don’t miss Cary Hoffman, today’s premiere Sinatra vocalist, as he salutes The Chairman of the Board with his acclaimed “My Sinatra” presentation.

Time: 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM

Price: $20-$92

Location: 206 Marina Park Way, San Diego, CA 92101

For more info:  619.235.0804 or purchasing.sandiegosymphony.org/single/psDetail.aspx?psn=4946

August 15-16, ArtWalk NTC @ Liberty Station

Formerly ArtWalk on the Bay, ArtWalk NTC @ Liberty Station builds upon the success of the past years at San Diego’s Bayfront. This 10th annual event takes place in San Diego’s flagship arts and culture district, NTC @ Liberty Station, once San Diego’s Naval Training Center, and now a mecca for artist studios, galleries, museums and performing arts groups.

Time: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Price: Free

Location: 2645 Historic Decatur, San Diego, CA 92106

For more info:  www.artwalksandiego.org/ntc

August 16 – September 20, The Comedy of Errors

Laughter will ring out under the stars as Shakespeare’s hilarious tale of mistaken identity takes the outdoor stage. A young man and his servant arrive in town, unaware that each of them has a separated-at-birth identical twin already there.

Time: 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM

Price: Tickets start at $29

Location: 1363 Old Globe Way, San Diego, CA 92101

For more info:  619.234.5623 or visit www.TheOldGlobe.org

August 19, Discovery Lab! – Real Live Reptiles

TRNERR invites the community to a series of open houses to excite and engage the minds of your entire family. Learn about the native reptiles who call San Diego home. Meet them up close and in person with the US Geological Survey biologists that study them.

Time: 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM

Price: Free

Location: 301 Caspian Way, Imperial Beach, CA 91932

For more info:  619.575.3613 or visit trnerr.org/discovery_labs

August 20, The Art of Music – Opus Orange

The Art of Music Concert Series: Opus Orange. In tribute to the musical performances that were a central component of the 1915 Panama-California Exposition, the Museum marks the centennial of this event with monthly concerts throughout the year that explore the duet of the visual and musical arts.

Time: 7:30 PM to 9:00 PM

Price: Free

Location: 1450 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101

For more info: 619.232.7931 or visit www.sdmart.org/calendar/art-music-concert-series-5

August 24, Summer Shakespeare Film Screening: West Side Story

The Old Globe throws open its doors for a special series of Shakespeare films, continuing its celebration of the Globe’s 80th Anniversary and Balboa Park’s Centennial.

Time: 8:00 PM to 11:00 PM

Price: Free

Location: 1363 Old Globe Way, San Diego, CA 92101

For more info:  619.234.5623 or www.theoldglobe.org/events/Summer_films_2015.aspx

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courtesy of:  

IVAN SOLIS, JR.  / Title365 / Ivan.Solis@Title365.com / 619.804.9000

Picture Window Views of San Diego With RealtorPeg

courtesy of:  http://photobucket.com/

SAN DIEGO FIREWORKS EVENTS – July 4th, 2015

July 3, Oceanside

The public is invited to the City of Oceanside Fireworks Show on July 3, 2015 from 6:00 to 10:00 PM.

Time: 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM

Location: 3302 Senior Center Drive, Oceanside, CA 92056

For more info: visit www.ci.oceanside.ca.us

Big Bay Boom!

The Big Bay Boom July 4th Fireworks Show is back, promising another spectacular display over San Diego Bay. Fireworks will be discharged simultaneously from barges placed strategically around the Bay off Shelter Island, Harbor Island, Embarcadero North, Seaport Village, Embarcadero South Marina Park and Coronado Ferry Landing.

Date: July 4, 2015

Time: Fireworks will begin at 9:00 PM

Price: Advance – $13 / Day of – $15 / Reserved – $23

Location: visit website for details

For more info: visit www.bigbayboom.com

Ocean Beach

Celebrate the fourth of July in Ocean Beach with a spectacular fireworks display off the OB Pier!

Date: July 4, 2015

Time: 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM / Fireworks at 9:00 PM

Location: 5091 Niagara Ave., San Diego, CA 92107

For more info: visit www.oceanbeachsandiego.com

Mira Mesa

The Mira Mesa Town Council is honored to once again present the annual Mira Mesa 4th of July Parade and Family Fun Day in the Park.

Date: July 4, 2015

Time: 8:00 AM to 9:30 PM / Fireworks at 9:00 PM

Location: 8575 New Salem Street, San Diego, CA 92126

For more info: visit www.miramesatowncouncil.org

SeaWorld

SeaWorld will light up the sky with an amazing fireworks extravaganza to celebrate the 4th of July. Fireworks will start at 10:10 PM and will last approximately 17 minutes.

Date: July 4, 2015

Time: 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM / Fireworks at 10:10 PM

Location: 500 SeaWorld Dr., San Diego, CA 92109

For more info: call 800.257.4268 or visit seaworldparks.com/en/seaworld-sandiego

Scripps Ranch

Come and enjoy a fun filled day for family and friends at the annual Scripps Ranch 4th of July Parade and Festivities.

Date: July 4, 2015

Time: 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM

Location: Aviary Drive & Canyon Lake Dr., SD, CA 92131

For more info: visit www.scrippsranch.org/events/4th-of-july.html

Julian

The stars and stripes will move down Main Street during this year’s Julian Fourth of July parade, prompting selection of It’s a Grand Old Flag as the theme for the annual patriotic celebration.

Date: July 4, 2015

Time: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Location: Main St., Julian, CA 92036

For more info: visit www.julianparade.com

Legoland

The summer heats up at LEGOLAND with a star-spangled Fourth of July celebration, “Red, White and Boom!”. The awe-inspiring fireworks show begins at 8:30 PM and blends patriotic music with dazzling pyrotechnics.

Date: July 4, 2015

Time: 10:00 AM to 9:30 PM

Location: One LEGOLAND Dr., Carlsbad, CA 92008

For more info: call 760.918.5346 or visit www.LEGOLAND.com

El Cajon

Celebrate the 4th of July in El Cajon with a good old fashioned picnic, children’s activities, vendors and fireworks!

Date: July 4, 2015

Time: 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM

Location: 1675 East Madison Avenue, El Cajon, CA 92019

For more info: visit www.ci.el-cajon.ca.us

Rancho Santa Fe

Pack a few blankets and chairs for Rancho Santa Fe’s Annual 4th of July Parade & Picnic with live music, food, fun and more.

Date: July 4, 2015

Time: 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM

Location: 16948 Avenida De Acacias, Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92091

For more info: visit www.rsfassociation.org

Santee

Rock out with 80s All Stars playing hits from the 80s, a patriotic ceremony, inflatable zone, food trucks and fireworks.

Date: July 4, 2015

Time: 3:30 PM to 10:00 PM

Price: Free / Parking – $5-$15 / Reserved Canopy – $135

Location: 550 Park Center Drive, Santee, CA 92071

For more info: visit www.ci.santee.ca.us

Escondido

Join 20,000 patriotic festival-goers for the 52nd Annual Independence Day Festival & Fireworks in Escondido.

Date: July 4, 2015

Time: 4:00 PM to 9:30 PM

Location: 5340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido, CA 92025

For more info: visit artcenter.org/event/independence-day-festival

Ramona

It’s an unforgettable experience when the skies over Ramona explode with color during the annual Ramona Rotary Community Fireworks and Family Picnic on July 4.

Date: July 4, 2015

Time: 5:30 PM to 10:00 PM

Location: 1521 Hanson Lane, Ramona, CA 92065

For more info.: visit www.ramonarotary.org

Vista

Celebrate the 4th of July in Vista at the Moonlight Amphitheatre with live music, an honorary ceremony, family fun and fireworks!

• 7:00 AM: Brengle Terrace Park opens
• 5:00 PM: Moonlight Amphitheatre opens
• 7:00 PM: Honorary Ceremony on the Moonlight Stage
• 7:35 PM: The Mar Dels performs on the Moonlight Stage
• 9:00 PM: Fireworks

Date: July 4, 2015

Time: 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM

Price: $5

Location: 1200 Vale Terrace Drive, Vista, CA 92084

For more info: visit www.ramonarotary.org

La Jolla

Come celebrate 4th of July with friends, family, and fireworks at La Jolla Cove! Come early to find your spot and enjoy some of the best sunset views in America’s finest city!

Date: July 4, 2015

Time: 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM / Fireworks at 9:00 PM

Location: 1180 Coast Blvd., La Jolla, CA 92037

For more info: visit www.lajollabythesea.com

_______________________________________________________

courtesy of:  IVAN SOLIS, JR.  / Title365 / Ivan.Solis@Title365.com / 619.804.9000

Picture Window Views of San Diego With RealtorPeg

AS SEEN IN BALBOA PARK!

courtesy of:  http://photobucket.com/

Hidden San Diego – Galleta Meadows Estate Sculptures

Somewhere in the harsh, sparse desert of Borrego Springs roam massive mammoths, serpent, saber tooth, gomphotherium, camel, birds and sloths. Really. And it’s not some Hollywood movie set. In fact, it’s one of the most awe-inspiring sculpture displays you may have never heard about.

I’ve covered other artistic and sculptural secrets around San Diego, including Queen Califia’s Magical Garden, the Bear at UCSD, and the Scripps Turd. But there’s one collection of sculptures where the stark desert setting gives the artwork even more of a visual impact.

Dennis Avery, land owner of Galleta Meadows Estates in Borrego Springs envisioned the idea of adding free-standing art to his property with original steel welded sculptures created by artist/welder Ricardo Breceda, who is based in Perris, California.

The life-size or larger sculptures are of creatures that once roamed the Borrego Valley when it was a lush forest. Mammoths, camels, turtles, wild horses and giant sloths are some of the pieces that have been attracting the curious to town.

Avery, of the Avery Label fortune, owns about three square miles of undeveloped property throughout Borrego Springs. He commissioned Breceda in 2008 to create a collection of metal prehistoric creatures.

The display, dubbed “Sky Art” by Avery, was initiated in the spring of 2008 with the placement of a family of gomphotheres, prehistoric elephant-like mammals that roamed North America, including the San Diego area, almost 4 million years ago. The largest of Breceda’s tusked creatures measures 12 feet tall and 20-feet long.

In just a few years, the collection grew to include sculptures of animals that were once found in the area, like sabertooth cats, giant tortoises, prehistoric camels, Columbian mammoths, Merriam’s tapirs, extinct horses, ground sloths, and massive birds. Avery’s quirky collection, many of which are visible from Borrego Springs Road, grew even more unique with the addition of – somewhat incongruously – human figures like a gold miner, Spanish padre, Native American, farm workers along with popular dinosaurs such as a spinosaurus, velociraptor, allosaurus and Tyrannosaurus rex.

In all, there are 129 figures of Breceda’s creations.

The latest of Breceda’s creations is probably the most spectacular – a 350-foot sea serpent that seemingly burrows and emerges from the desert sand. With the head of a dragon and a rattlesnake’s tail, the serpent, which cost around $40,000, took four months to craft, and it took another three months to erect it in Borrego Springs.

Although Ricardo Breceda’s creations are part of Avery’s Galleta Meadows Sky Art collection, the menagerie isn’t just situated in a single place. Most of the sculptures can be found along the Borrego Springs Road both north and south of downtown Borrego Springs. Most of the collection is scattered north of Christmas Circle, the roundabout in the center of Borrego Springs. A number of other sculptures are displayed south of Christmas Circle along Borrego Springs Road before you get to Yaqui Pass Road.

The Breceda creatures can easily be seen from your car while driving, but you can park your car off the pavement and get up close to take pictures. Just be careful – you’re in the desert environment, so you’ll need to take precautions because you’re in rattlesnake country. In addition, be aware that there is traffic traveling at high speed along Borrego Springs Road.

courtesy of:  http://sandiego.about.com/

San Diego Leading Economic Indicators, April 2015

Note:   The tentative release date of next month’s report is June 30.

The USD Burnham-Moores Center for Real Estate’s Index of Leading Economic Indicators for San Diego County rose 0.9 percent in April.  Once again, all six components were positive.  Building permits led the move, followed by strong gains in help wanted advertising and the outlook for the national economy.  There were smaller increases in initial claims for unemployment insurance, consumer confidence, and local stock prices.

With April’s increase, the USD Index has now increased for 11 months in a row.  This would have been the fourth consecutive month where all six components of the Index were up, but a revision of the national Index of Leading economy indicators for February pushed that component into the negative column.  This was also the first month in 2015 where the gain was less than the significant one percent level, although it was very close.  The outlook continues to be for strong growth in the local economy for the rest of 2015 and at least through the early part of 2016.  Recent employment reports have put the year-over-year increase in wage and salary employment at over 40,000, which would be the best annual gain since 2000.  The strongest sectors of the economy at this point are professional, scientific, and technical services (+8,200 jobs year-over-year), leisure and hospitality (+6,500), and health care (+4,900).  The first is particularly important for San Diego because it includes research and development jobs in science and technology that are high paying and important to the local economy.

Index of Leading Economic Indicators   The index for San Diego County that includes the components listed below (April)Source:  USD Burnham-Moores Center for Real Estate	+0.9%
Building Permits   Residential units authorized by building permits in San Diego County (April)Source:  U.S. Census Bureau	+1.89%
Unemployment Insurance   Initial claims for unemployment insurance in San Diego County, inverted (April)Source:  Employment Development Department	+0.65%
Stock Prices   San Diego Stock Exchange Index (April)Source:  San Diego Daily Transcript	+0.14%
Consumer Confidence   An index of consumer confidence in San Diego County, estimated (April)Source: The Conference Board	+0.25%
Help Wanted Advertising   An index of online help wanted advertising in San Diego (April)Source: The Conference Board	+1.04%
National Economy   Index of Leading Economic Indicators (April)Source: The Conference Board	+1.29%

Highlights:  A huge surge in multi-family units pushed residential units authorized by building permits to its highest level since March of last year.  A total of 991 units were authorized in April, of which 719 were multi-family units. . . The labor market variables remain strong, although both initial claims for unemployment insurance and help wanted advertising were less positive than they have been in recent months.  The net result was that the seasonally adjusted local unemployment rate was 5.1 percent in April, which was unchanged from March but down from 6.4 percent in April 2014.  The non-seasonally adjusted rate was 4.9 percent, making April the first month since April 2008 where the local unemployment rate was less than 5 percent. . . Although the gains have not been spectacular, consumer confidence has now risen for 15 months in a row, which is the longest current streak any of the six components. . . Local stock prices were lower at the end of April than at the beginning, but the USD Index uses the average of prices for the entire month as the point of comparison.  Although local stocks faltered at the end of the month, they were strong enough in the middle April to lead this component to a modest gain . . . The downward revision in February broke a run of 13 straight increases in the national Index of Leading Economic Indicators. But there was a solid gain in March and a strong increase in April, so the outlook for the national economy remains positive.  There was a hiccup in the first quarter though, with the “advance” estimate of the GDP growth rate for that quarter coming in at a disappointing 0.2 annualized rate.  This compares to growth rates of 4.6 percent, 5.0 percent, and 2.2 percent for the second, third, and fourth quarters of 2014 respectively.  It is still an improvement over the first quarter of last year, when the economy shrank at a 2.1 percent annualized rate.

March’s increase puts the USD Index of Leading Economic Indicators for San Diego County at 138.9, up from March’s reading of 137.7.  Revisions in the national Index of Leading Economic Indicators for November, December, February, and March affected the previously reported changes for those months.  For the previously reported values for the Index and for the individual components, please visit the Website address given below.

For more information on the University of San Diego’s Index of Leading Economic Indicators, please contact:

Professor Alan Gin                           TEL:  (858) 603-3873

School of Business Administration     FAX:  (858) 260-4891

University of San Diego                   E-mail: agin@sandiego.edu

5998 Alcalá Park                                     Website: http://www.sandiego.edu/~agin/usdlei

San Diego, CA 92110                               Twitter:  @alanginusdsba

SAN DIEGO JUNE, 2015 FUN EVENTS

June 5 – July 5, San Diego County Fair 

Start your summer at the 2015 San Diego County Fair – Friday, June 5 through Sunday, July 5 (closed Mondays and the first two Tuesdays). For centuries, people across the world have traveled to World’s Fairs to celebrate innovations, art and agriculture. In 1915, people flocked to San Diego for the Panama-California Exposition, held in Balboa Park. To celebrate the 100th anniversary of this milestone event, and the history and influence World’s Fairs have had on the modern-day, the 2015 San Diego County Fair theme is A Fair To Remember: A Celebration of World’s Fairs and Balboa Park.

Time: visit website for details

Location: Del Mar Fairgrounds – 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd., Del Mar, CA 92014

For more info: 858.755.1161 or visit www.sdfair.com

June 5 – 7, San Diego Greek Festival

St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox Church invites you to join the annual Greek Festival. Sharing our heritage, culture, music, traditions, customs and culinary skills with you, our neighbors and friends in San Diego and Southern California.

Time: visit website for details

Location: 3655 Park Boulevard, SD, CA 92103

For more info:  619.297.4165 or visit www.sdgreekfestival.com

June 5 – 6, San Marcos Rock, Blues & BBQ Festival 

After 15 years of holding their event in Allen’s Wrench parking lot, the Allens decided to join with the City of San Marcos and let their event grow. This will be the 5th year with the city of San Marcos and the Allens are happy to see their event growing. Come join the fun!

Time: 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Location: 31950 Sycamore Drive, San Marcos, CA 92069

For more info:  www.allenswrenchrocknbbq.com

June 6, Walk To Cure Arthritis

Symptoms of arthritis include pain, fatigue, and inflammation. A good way to help combat arthritis is to walk. Walking moves the muscles and lubricates the joints for more flexibility. So, let’s move together by participating at this walking event. Proceeds benefit the Arthritis Foundation.

Time: 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM

Location: Liberty Station

For more info: Nancy Coate @ (858) 492-1090 x-6711 or visit www.sdarthritiswalk.org

June 6 – 14, 2015 World Famous Mud Run at Camp Pendleton

Even more obstacles packed for 2015 than ever before! For the Hard Corps runner, test your skills on the original 10K course. This course includes military obstacles that will get your juices pumpin’. Keep the traditions going strong by tackling the original World Famous Mud Run.

Time: visit website for details

Location: MCB Camp Pendleton, CA 92055

For more info: www.mccscp.com/mudrun-details

June 8, 19th Annual Gerry Wilson Golf Classic

There is “a hole lotta fun” of golf at a premier golf and lifestyle club in Solana Beach. Proceeds from the tournament help the BBB Foundation, a 501(c)3, expand the free services and programs it offers to the over 3 million consumers living in San Diego. The BBB and its Foundation serve to protect consumers and help ethical businesses succeed.

Time: 9:30 AM to 7:00 PM

Location: 1505 Lomas Santa Fe Drive, Solana Beach

For more info: 858.451.8100 or visit

www.bbb.org/sdoc/get-involved/attend-an-event/golf

June 10, Discovery Lab! – Mudflat Madness

TRNERR invites the community to a series of open houses to excite and engage the minds of your entire family. Discover what wiggles, crawls, and squirms in your backyard all-you-can-eat mudflat buffet.

Time: 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM

Location: 301 Caspian Way, Imperial Beach, CA 91932

For more info: 619.575.3613 or visit trnerr.org/discovery_labs

June 11, Fashion Week San Diego Viva La V Series

Join Fashion Week San Diego at the beautiful La Valencia Hotel for our 3rd Viva La V event of the year!! Guests will enjoy an afternoon of fun, food, and fashion while sipping on their favorite cocktail and culinary masterpieces from the executive chef, James Montejano.

Time: 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM

Location: 1132 Prospect Street, La Jolla, CA 92037

For more info: 858.270.9466 or visit fashionweeksd.com/events/3rd-fwsd-viva-la-v-series-featuring-lady-lane-gfash

June 13, San Diego Oysterfest

The 6th Annual San Diego Oysterfest brings an amazing live music performance to the beautiful bayside setting of Marina Embarcadero North. 2015 Headliner is Thievery Corporation.

Time: 12:00 PM to 7:30 PM

Location: 500 Kettner Blvd., San Diego, CA 92101

For more info: www.oysterfestsd.com

June 13 – 14, Annual Inter-Tribal Powwow

Join the San Luis Rey Band of Luiseño Mission Indians for the 18th Annual Inter-Tribal Powwow with arts and craft booths, food, dancers, drums, an opportunity drawing and contest dancing.

Time: 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM

Location: 4050 Mission Ave., Oceanside, CA 92057

For more info:  www.slrmissionindians.org/read-me

June 14, Wild Horse Tail Half Marathon & 10K

The Wildhorse Trail Half Marathon and 10K is brought to you by DirtDevilRacing.com and is the second in the Half Marathon and Progressive Race Series.

Time: 7:00 AM

Location: 2234 Wueste Road, Chula Vista, CA 91915

For more info:  www.dirtdevilracing.com

June 18 – 21, San Diego International Boat Show

Whether you’ve been yearning for a yacht, coveting a family cruiser, or anxious to dive into the exciting and healthy world of paddle sports, now is the time to make that dream a reality with boats for sale in addition to dozens of booths showcasing the newest nautical gear, gadgets and accessories.

Time: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM

Location: 1380 Harbor Island Drive, San Diego, CA 92101

For more info:  www.sandiegointernationalboatshow.com

June 19 – 21, San Diego International Beer Festival

With more than 400 beers from around the world to choose from, beer aficionados will enjoy hard-to-find specialty craft brews alongside favorites from our local brewing scene. Specialty vendors will be selling a variety of accessories and gifts for the beer lover – from unique apparel to beer dog bones!

Time: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Location: 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd., Del Mar, CA 92014

For more info:  www.sandiegobeerfestival.com

June 20, Fairy Festival

Fairies! Come celebrate summer at the Hamilton Children’s Garden. Wear your fairy costume or come just as you are. Create a fairy house, make fairy treasures, leave messages on the wishing bush, or shop in the Fairyland market. Be sure to bring your camera for a picture with the Fairy Princess.

Time: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Location: 230 Quail Gardens Dr., Encinitas, CA 92024

For more info:  760.436.3036 or visit www.sdbgarden.org/fairyfest.htm

June 21, Father’s Day Paintball

Give your dad a Father’s Day gift to remember this year. Forget the socks and tools; give your Dad an adrenaline rush paintball experience. Hit the paintball field with DAD for a day!

Time: 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM

Location: 1699 Main Street, San Diego, CA 92113

For more info:  619.363.2827 or visit totalcombatpaintball.com

June 26 – 27, Real Hypnosis, Real Funny

Laugh until you hurt, gasp in amazement with Marshall Sylver, the greatest hypnotist of all time! Blending hilarious entertainment with his jaw-dropping hypnotic expertise into a one of a kind dynamic theatrical production filled with laughter, music, dance and amazement. Past life regression, time travel, walking on broken glass and more!

Time: 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM

Location: 121 Broadway, San Diego, CA 92101

For more info:  619.363.2827 or visit www.spreckels.net/calendar.html 

June 27, Distilled:  San Diego Spirit & Cocktail Festival

New for 2015, the San Diego County Fair presents Distilled: San Diego Spirit & Cocktail Festival, Saturday, June 27 from 1:00 to 5:00 PM in the famed Paddock, Red Star Café, Paddock Tavern and 17 Hands Restaurant.

Time: 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM

Location: 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd., Del Mar, CA 92014

For more info:  858.755.1161 or visit www.distilledsandiego.com

_______________________________________________________

courtesy of:  IVAN SOLIS, JR. Sr. Sales Executive eMail: Ivan.Solis@Title365.com 8880 Rio San Diego Drive, Suite 102, San Diego, CA 92108, Phone: 619.804.9000