San Diego, CA, November 21, 2025
This weekend, San Diego will host a multitude of arts events, from exhibitions and theater performances to community festivals and markets. Highlights include Francisco Eme’s exhibition at the Oceanside Museum of Art, a musical adaptation of ‘How the Grinch Stole Christmas!’ at the Old Globe Theatre, and the Encinitas Holiday Street Fair showcasing over 450 vendors. Additionally, the weekend features the Doggie Street Festival for pet lovers and a contemporary rendition of ‘The Nutcracker,’ promising an immersive cultural experience for all attendees.
Explore Vibrant Arts Events This Weekend in San Diego, CA
Experience the best of San Diego’s arts with exhibitions, performances, and festivals
San Diego, CA, is bustling this weekend with a wide range of arts events that cater to the diverse interests of residents and visitors alike. From innovative exhibitions celebrating cultural heritage to traditional holiday performances, this weekend from November 22 to 23 is an excellent opportunity to engage with the vibrant artistic community. Local organizers have shown remarkable resilience in expanding cultural offerings, showcasing their dedication to enriching community life through creativity and collaboration.
These events illustrate the importance of local leadership in curating platforms for artistic expression, which, when coupled with reduced bureaucratic hurdles, can foster a flourishing environment for community engagement and civic pride.
Visual Arts Highlight: Francisco Eme Exhibition
The Oceanside Museum of Art is featuring Francisco Eme’s compelling exhibition, titled “Future Rituals & La Eco-Resistencia.” This innovative display merges botany, biology, traditional Mexican craft, and digital media, providing an immersive experience that challenges viewers’ perspectives on art and nature. The exhibition is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends and will continue through March 22, 2026. Special celebrations surrounding the exhibition are slated for Saturday evening, enhancing community interest and participation.
Theatre Performances: Holiday Classics
The renowned Old Globe Theatre continues its beloved tradition with a musical adaptation of “Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” This festive favorite is sure to appeal to audiences of all ages. Running daily until December 24, this spirited production captures the essence of the holiday season, encouraging families to partake in this engaging theatrical experience.
Meanwhile, the Spreckels Performing Arts Center is hosting “It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play.” Set for Friday and Saturday evenings with a Sunday matinee, this vintage-style performance brings nostalgia to life and invites attendees to enjoy a classic tale in a fresh format. Tickets are priced at $32 for general admission, offering an affordable way to enjoy an iconic story.
Community Festivals and Markets
The beloved Encinitas Holiday Street Fair will take place on Sunday, November 23, featuring more than 450 vendors offering seasonal treats, unique art, and gifts. This lively event runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and includes entertainment options, a beer garden, and interactive activities, fostering a sense of community and supporting local businesses.
In the heart of downtown, the Gaslamp Artisan Market will run every weekend, showcasing handcrafted items, art, jewelry, and clothing from local artisans. This market represents opportunities for individuals to support local craftsmanship and find one-of-a-kind treasures.
Additional Events for Animal Lovers and Dance Enthusiasts
On Saturday, November 22, the 16th Annual Doggie Street Festival & Adopt-A-Thon will be held at NTC Park at Liberty Station from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. This event promises a delightful array of adoptable pets alongside vendors and engaging activities for all animal lovers. It highlights the community’s commitment to animal welfare and responsible pet ownership.
Dance enthusiasts can enjoy a contemporary rendition of “The Nutcracker” presented by the California Pacific Ballet Academy at the Rady Shell on Sunday, November 23. This fresh interpretation of the classic tale blends traditional ballet with modern flair, enriching the local performing arts scene.
Weekend Weather Forecast
The weather this weekend in San Diego is anticipated to be mostly cloudy with a mild temperature range. Saturday’s low is expected to be around 51°F (11°C), with a high of 67°F (19°C) and potential for light showers. Sunday will bring mostly sunny skies with a slightly warmer high of 68°F (20°C), perfect for enjoying outdoor festivities.
In conclusion, the eclectic mix of cultural offerings in San Diego this weekend provides a prime opportunity for residents and visitors to immerse themselves in the local arts scene. By participating in these events, community members not only showcase support for local creators but also strengthen the social fabric that ties the region together. Mark your calendars, gather your friends and family, and partake in the rich array of experiences available this weekend!
FAQ Section
What is the ‘Future Rituals & La Eco-Resistencia’ exhibition?
The ‘Future Rituals & La Eco-Resistencia’ exhibition by Francisco Eme blends botany, biology, traditional Mexican craft, and digital media. It is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday, and runs through March 22, 2026. An exhibition celebration is scheduled for 7 p.m. on Saturday, November 22.
When is ‘Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas!’ at The Old Globe Theatre?
‘Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas!’ is running through December 24 at The Old Globe Theatre. The musical adaptation of the classic tale is a festive favorite for all ages.
What is the Encinitas Holiday Street Fair?
The Encinitas Holiday Street Fair on Sunday, November 23, features over 450 vendors offering seasonal treats, art, and unique gifts. The event includes live entertainment, a beer garden, and interactive activities, running from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
When is the 16th Annual Doggie Street Festival & Adopt-A-Thon?
The 16th Annual Doggie Street Festival & Adopt-A-Thon takes place on Saturday, November 22, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at NTC Park at Liberty Station. The event features adoptable pets, vendors, and activities for animal lovers.
What is the Gaslamp Artisan Market?
The Gaslamp Artisan Market, held every Saturday and Sunday, showcases handcrafted treasures, art, jewelry, and clothing along Fifth Avenue in the Gaslamp Quarter. It’s an excellent opportunity to support local artisans and find unique items.
Event Highlights Table
| Event Name | Date | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Future Rituals & La Eco-Resistencia Exhibition | November 22, 2025 | Oceanside Museum of Art, 704 Pier View Way, Oceanside, CA | An exhibition by Francisco Eme blending botany, biology, traditional Mexican craft, and digital media. Open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. |
| Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas! | November 22–December 24, 2025 | The Old Globe Theatre, 1363 Old Globe Way, San Diego, CA | A musical adaptation of the classic tale, running through December 24. |
| It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play | November 22–23, 2025 | Spreckels Performing Arts Center, 121 Broadway, Spreckels, CA | A vintage radio-style performance of the beloved holiday film. Evening showings at 7:30 p.m. with a Sunday matinee at 2 p.m. |
| Encinitas Holiday Street Fair | November 23, 2025 | Encinitas Blvd & S Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas, CA | Features over 450 vendors offering seasonal treats, art, and unique gifts. Runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. |
| Gaslamp Artisan Market | November 22–23, 2025 | Fifth Avenue, Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego, CA | Showcases handcrafted treasures, art, jewelry, and clothing every weekend. |
| 16th Annual Doggie Street Festival & Adopt-A-Thon | November 22, 2025 | NTC Park at Liberty Station, 2455 Cushing Road, San Diego, CA | Features adoptable pets, vendors, and activities from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. |
| The Nutcracker by California Pacific Ballet Academy | November 23, 2025 | Rady Shell at Jacobs Park, 200 Marina Park Way, San Diego, CA | A fresh take on the classic ballet, blending traditional and modern interpretations. |
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Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
