San Diego's Vibrant Cultural Calendar: October's Must-See Events and Festivals

 

San Diego's Vibrant Cultural Calendar: October's Must-See Events and Festivals

Thursday

Sumo: La Jolla Playhouse World Premiere - Japanese Sumo Wrestling Play

Witness the world premiere of Lisa Sanaye Dring's captivating play, featuring the training and struggles of six men aspiring to success at an elite sumo wrestling center in contemporary Japan. Don't miss this thrilling experience.

When: Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m.; Thursdays and Fridays at 8 p.m.; Saturdays at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.; Sundays at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. (*Available through October 22*)

Where: Mandell Weiss Forum, La Jolla Playhouse, 2910 La Jolla Village Drive, La Jolla.

Tickets: Priced from $25 to $64. For reservations, call (858) 550-1010 or visit (https://lajollaplayhouse.org).

Doubt: A Parable - Gripping Pulitzer Prize-Winning Drama

New Village Arts presents John Patrick Shanley's Pulitzer Prize-winning drama. Follow a conflicted nun's moral dilemma as she grapples with allegations against a potentially abusive priest.

When: Thursdays through Saturdays at 7:30 p.m.; Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays at 2 p.m. (Available through October 22)

Where: Conrad Prebys Theatre at the Dea Hurston New Village Arts Center, 2787 State St., Carlsbad.

Tickets: Ranging from $28 to $48. For reservations, call (760) 433-3245 or visit [NewVillageArts.org].

Joyce Forum Jewish Short Film Festival - A Celebration of Global Cinema

Explore a diverse selection of 25 short films from across the world, curated into five distinct programs. Engage in filmmaker discussions and immerse yourself in the art of storytelling.

When: Running from Thursday to Saturday

Where: Lawrence Family Jewish Community Center, 4126 Executive Drive, La Jolla.

Tickets: Each program is individually priced at $18 for general admission and $15 for LFJCC members. Experience all programs with the All-Access Pass, available for $60 or $48 for members. Learn more at [2023jfjsff.eventive.org].

Friday

Welcome to Sleepy Hollow: A Haunting Musical Thriller

The Oceanside Theatre Company presents Heather Megill's "Welcome to Sleepy Hollow." Immerse yourself in this spine-tingling musical inspired by Washington Irving's "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow," where a timid New York schoolteacher encounters the legendary headless horseman.

When: Fridays at 8 p.m.; Saturdays at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.; Sundays at 2 p.m. (Available through October 29)

Where: Brooks Theater, 217 N Coast Hwy, Oceanside.

Tickets: Priced between $35 and $40. To book your seats, visit (https://oceansidetheatre.org).

Dishwasher Dreams - A Heartfelt Solo Performance

The Old Globe presents Alaudin Ullah's moving solo performance, featuring percussion, that delves into the tale of his Bangladeshi father's pursuit of the American dream and its profound impact on his own life.

When: Friday at 8 p.m.; Saturday at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.; Sunday at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Where: Sheryl & Harvey White Theatre, The Old Globe, 1363 Old Globe Way, San Diego.

Tickets: Starting from $33. For reservations, call (619) 234-5623 or visit (https://theoldglobe.org).

'Turn of the Screw - Gothic Horror Adaptation'

Discover the eerie world of Jeffrey Hatcher's stage adaptation of Henry James' 1898 gothic horror novella. Uncover the spine-chilling story of an English governess haunted by two malevolent ghosts while caring for two innocent children.

When: Opens on Friday and runs through October 29. Showtimes: Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m.; Sundays at 2 p.m.

Where: Black Box @ Diversionary Theatre, 3434 Park Blvd., University Heights.

Tickets: Priced from $35 and up. For ticketing information, visit (https://chalkcirclecollective.com).

Harvest Festival Art and Craft Show

Immerse yourself in a celebration of art and craftsmanship. The Harvest Festival Art and Craft Show will showcase hundreds of talented artists and crafters from across the country. Explore a diverse range of items, including jewelry, ceramics, seasonal decor, children's clothing, photography, oils, sculptures, woodworks, and Halloween accessories. Enjoy food, kids' activities, demonstrations, contests, and even meet adorable dogs available for adoption through Operation Greyhound.

When: Running from Friday to Sunday

Where: Del Mar Fairgrounds, 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd., Del Mar.

Tickets: General admission is $9, with discounts available for seniors, military, and youths. Children under 12 enter for free when you bring nonperishable items for the local food bank. Operating hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. Learn more at (https://harvestfestival.com).

Thibaudet/Batiashvili/Capuçon Trio - Musical Excellence

La Jolla Music Society presents a captivating concert featuring pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet, violinist Lisa Batiashvili, and cellist Gautier Capuçon. Prepare to be enchanted by their exceptional performances.

When: Friday at 7:30 p.m.

Where: Baker-Baum Concert Hall, 7600 Fay Ave, La Jolla.

Tickets: Priced between $56 and $88. For reservations, call (858) 459-3728 or visit (https://theconrad.org).

Australian Haydn Ensemble - U.S. Premiere

UCSD ArtPower presents the U.S. premiere of the Australian Haydn Ensemble, an 11-piece chamber orchestra, performing exquisite works by Haydn, Mozart, and J.C. Bach. Don't miss this extraordinary musical experience.

When: Friday at 7:30 p.m.

Where: Baker-Baum Concert Hall, 7600 Fay Ave, La Jolla.

Tickets: Ranging from $50 to $65. Explore more at (https://artpower.ucsd.edu).

Saturday

Solar Eclipse Viewing Party - A Celestial Spectacle

Join the Fleet Science Center for a thrilling Solar Eclipse Viewing Party in Balboa Park. Experience the solar eclipse, which begins at 8:09 a.m. and concludes at 10:52 a.m. Astronomer Lisa Will and other experts will be on hand to

 answer questions and discuss this spectacular celestial event. Eclipse glasses and other merchandise will be available, along with coffee, breakfast, and special programming in the Craveology Café and the North Star Science Store. The Fleet galleries will open early at 9 a.m. for additional programming.

When: Saturday at 8 a.m.

Where: Bea Evenson Fountain in Balboa Park.

Admission: Free. For more details, visit (https://www.fleetscience.org/events/solar-eclipse-viewing-party).

Howl-O-Ween Festival - A Spooky Celebration

The Helen Woodward Animal Center invites you to its Howl-O-Ween Harvest Family Festival. Enjoy delightful animal encounters, trick-or-treat stations, a hay maze, creative crafts, face painting, a mini pumpkin patch, and a visit to the Midnight Mystery Laboratory. The festival will be held on multiple dates: Saturday, October 21, October 28, and October 29.

When: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday and October 21, 28, and 29.

Where: 6461 El Apajo Road, Rancho Santa Fe.

Tickets: Prices are $13.75 for kids aged 2-17 and $7 for adults aged 18 and older. Learn more at (https://animalcenter.org/howl-o-ween-harvest).

Halloween Movie Night - A Family-Friendly Extravaganza

Oceanside Parks and Recreation presents a spooktacular Halloween movie night. Enjoy trick-or-treating around the historic buildings of Heritage Park before settling down to watch "The Addams Family" on the lawn at 6:30 p.m. Bring your chairs, coats, and blankets. There will also be mini pumpkin decorating (while supplies last), crafts for the little ones, and much more.

When: 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday.

Where: Admission is $7; free for children under 4. Kids are encouraged to wear costumes. Explore more at (https://conta.cc/3LAEfo6).

'Washi Transformed: New Expressions in Japanese Paper' - Art Exhibition

The Mingei International Museum unveils an art exhibition featuring over 30 works by nine contemporary Japanese artists, celebrating the art of washi, Japanese handmade paper. Was an integral part of traditional art forms like painting, calligraphy, origami, and more. Immerse yourself in the creativity and tradition of washi.

When: Opens Saturday and runs through January 7.

Where: Mingei International Museum, 1439 El Prado, Balboa Park.

Admission: Open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays-Sundays (with extended hours until 8 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays). For more details, call (619) 239-0003 or visit (https://mingei.org).

Fall Fun Festival - A Day of Family Fun

Alta Vista Botanical Gardens invites you to their annual Fall Fun Festival, featuring a wide range of free children's activities. These include painting pumpkins, crafting origami bats, painting kindness rocks, creating nature weavings, designing eggshell mosaics, and discovering fascinating worms. Enjoy music by Vic Moraga and dance performances by the Moreton Bay Fig Morris Dancers. A Family Discovery Walk will guide you through the lower gardens, and vendors will offer arts and crafts, sweet treats, and plants for sale. You can also savor a barbecued lunch provided by the Amigos de Vista Lions. Don't miss the colorful parade of scarecrows in the scarecrow contest, arriving at noon.

When: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday.

Where: Alta Vista Botanical Gardens, 1270 Vale Terrace Drive, Vista.

Admission: Entry to the gardens is free during the festival. Learn more at (https://altavistabotanicalgardens.org).

"The Lost Weekend: The Photography of May Pang" - Exclusive Photo Exhibit

Experience an exclusive exhibit featuring the personal photos of May Pang, a former music executive who dated John Lennon during an 18-month separation from Yoko Ono in the early 1970s. Her intimate and candid snapshots provide a unique glimpse into their time together.

When: Saturday from noon to 7 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 6 p.m.

Where: Legends Gallery, 1205 Prospect St., La Jolla.

Admission: For inquiries, call (858) 456-9900 or visit (https://legendsgallerylajolla.com).

50th Annual Serbian Festival - A Celebration of Culture

The 50th Annual Serbian Festival promises an enchanting cultural experience. Live bands will perform Serbian music throughout the day, accompanied by captivating folk dancing starting at 2 p.m. Delight in a delectable array of Serbian foods, including pastries, cabbage rolls, barbecued sausages, grilled pork skewers, pastries, crepes, baklava, and Serbian coffee. Noon to 11 p.m. on Saturday at St. George Serbian Orthodox Church in Bay Park. Church tours begin at 2 p.m. Admission is $5, and it's free for military, first responders, and children 12 and under. Learn more at (https://sdserbianfestival.com).

"Monty Python's Spamalot" - Hilarious Comedy Musical

Theatre at the Welk presents "Monty Python's Spamalot," a hilarious comedy musical inspired by the classic film "Monty Python and the Holy Grail." Be prepared for a rollicking good time.

When: Saturdays at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.; Sundays at 1 p.m. (Available through October 29)

Where: Welk Resort Theatre, 8860 Lawrence Welk Drive, Escondido.

Tickets: Priced from $31 to $62. To reserve your seats, visit (https://tickets.thewelksandiego.com).

Ladies at the Lake Fall Market - A Unique Shopping Experience

Ladies at the Lake presents its eighth annual Fall Market. Discover a variety of vendors offering holiday items, including candles, jewelry, spices, preserves, and other unique goods. Relish delectable fare from food trucks and enjoy a cup of coffee while you shop.

When: Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Where: Santee Lakes, Lake 1 and 10 under the gazebo.

Admission: Free, with parking available for $7. For more information, visit (https://www.facebook.com/santeelakes).

Sunday

An Evening With Peter Sagal - NPR's Renowned Host

San Diego Theatres invites you to spend "An Evening With Peter Sagal." The beloved host of National Public Radio's "Wait, Wait... Don't Tell Me!" will regale you with funny stories, insightful commentary on current events, and his unique take

 on the latest news. Besides his 25 years hosting the popular quiz program, Sagal is a celebrated writer, humorist, and author of "The Book of Vice: Naughty Things and How to Do Them" and "The Incomplete Book of Running."

When: Sunday at 7 p.m.

Where: Balboa Theatre, 868 Fourth Ave., San Diego.

Tickets: Start at $30. Reserve your spot at (https://sandiegotheatres.org/event/2023/10/evening-peter-sagal).

Mariachi Herencia de Mexico - A Musical Extravaganza

La Jolla Music Society presents the Chicago-born ensemble, Mariachi Herencia de Mexico. Enjoy their music from the album "Herederos" ("The Heirs") with guest singer Marisol "La Marisoul" Hernández.

When: Sunday at 3 p.m.

Where: Baker-Baum Concert Hall, 7600 Fay Ave, La Jolla.

Tickets: Priced from $35 to $73. Learn more at (https://theconrad.org) or call (858) 459-3728.

Ongoing Events

Pumpkin Train - Halloween Adventure

Embrace the Halloween spirit with the Pacific Southwest Railway Museum's Pumpkin Express Halloween Celebration. Journey through the San Diego County mountains aboard vintage rail cars adorned with festive decorations. Explore a themed display building, featuring Halloween scenes and an eerie cast of ghosts and ghouls. Hop on a train to a pumpkin patch where kids can pick pumpkins to decorate. For the brave, there are scary railroad cars to explore.

When: Saturdays and Sundays, through October 29. Trains depart at 10:30 a.m., 11:45 a.m., 1:45 p.m., and 3 p.m.

Where: Campo Depot, 750 Depot St.

Tickets: Prices range from $9.95 to $39.95. Reserve your spot at (https://www.psrm.org/pumpkin).

Free Museum Admission for Kids in October - Family-Friendly Fun

Enjoy a fantastic October with over 50 museums and cultural attractions across San Diego County offering free admission for children under 12. Participating institutions include the Barona Cultural Center & Museum, Chicano Park Museum & Cultural Center, Fleet Science Center, Japanese Friendship Garden, and San Diego Air & Space Museum. Up to two kids can enter for free with each paid adult ticket.

For More Details: Explore the list of participating museums and attractions, along with coupons for admission, at (https://sandiegomuseumcouncil.org/specials/kidsfree).

The Links at Petco Park - Golfing at the Ballpark

Tee off at Petco Park on the Links at Petco Park golf course. This unique golfing experience features nine different holes spread throughout the ballpark, including one shot from the playing field. Some holes will be themed for fall and Halloween.

When: Available through October 22. Tee times are available starting at 7 a.m.

Where: Petco Park, 100 Park Blvd., San Diego.

Prices: Begin at $100. Reserve your tee time at (https://www.padres.com/thelinks).

"Border Crossers" - Art and Politics of the U.S.-Mexican Border

UC San Diego Qualcomm Institute presents "Border Crossers," a multimedia exhibit featuring inflatable and robotic sculptures, video, and drawings. Created by artists Chico MacMurtrie and Amorphic Robot Works, this exhibit explores the politics of the U.S.-Mexican border.

When: Runs through December 8.

Where: Atkinson Hall, 9500 Gilman Drive, UC San Diego, La Jolla.

More Information: Explore the exhibit at (https://galleryqi.ucsd.edu).