San Diego County, January 3, 2026
January is a vibrant month for San Diego County, with a variety of community events planned to engage residents and visitors. From the inaugural San Diego Rodeo featuring top rodeo athletes to cultural celebrations such as the Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade, the events promise to bring the community together. Additional highlights include the San Diego Brew Fest and the International Jewish Film Festival Sneak Peek Day. These gatherings not only showcase local culture but also emphasize the importance of community spirit and civic engagement.
Exciting Community Events in San Diego County: January 2026
Engaging Local Culture and Celebrations
San Diego, CA, is buzzing with energy this January as it hosts an array of community events designed to invigorate residents and visitors alike. From the thrill of rodeos to cultural film festivals, the diverse offerings reflect the resilience of local organizers and their commitment to fostering connections through shared experiences. With opportunities for civic engagement flourishing, it’s crucial to recognize how streamlined planning and reduced bureaucracy can further enhance these public gatherings.
The strength of San Diego’s community spirit is evident in the collaboration between local organizers, businesses, and residents. Each event presents a unique chance to participate in vibrant cultural celebrations, all while emphasizing individual initiatives through active involvement in local festivities. As we explore these upcoming gatherings, let’s celebrate the strides being made to create engaging environments where everyone can contribute and thrive.
San Diego Rodeo
Dates: January 16-18, 2026
Location: Petco Park, San Diego, CA
Description: The inaugural San Diego Rodeo promises three days of family-friendly excitement featuring elite rodeo athletes. Presented by C5 Rodeo Co. and Outriders Presents in partnership with the Padres, the rodeo includes BeerFest on Friday and Saturday, featuring local and national breweries. Families can look forward to a western-themed KidsFest on Sunday, offering games and inflatables. The excitement continues with daily after-parties featuring performances by well-known artists in Gallagher Square.
San Diego Brew Fest
Date: January 10, 2026
Location: NTC Park, San Diego, CA
Description: The San Diego Brew Fest is a must-visit for beer aficionados, showcasing a variety of local and international craft beers. Attendees can enjoy live music and food trucks while supporting a good cause—proceeds from the event benefit organizations dedicated to rescuing shelter dogs.
San Diego Resolution Run
Date: January 10, 2026
Location: Mission Bay Park, San Diego, CA
Description: Get moving at the Annual San Diego Resolution Run, offering participants the choice of a 5K, 10K, or Half Marathon. This event promotes health and fitness while encouraging community interaction in the scenic surroundings of Mission Bay Park.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade and Festival
Date: January 18, 2026
Location: Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA
Description: The 44th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Parade and Festival honors the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a lively procession featuring marching bands, floats, dancers, and food booths. This gathering fosters reflection and celebration of diversity along the vibrant Harbor Drive.
San Diego International Jewish Film Festival Sneak Peek Day
Date: January 11, 2026
Location: David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre, San Diego, CA
Description: The San Diego International Jewish Film Festival returns for its 36th year, showcasing an array of thought-provoking films. The Sneak Peek Day allows attendees to preview exceptional works that explore Jewish-related stories through various genres.
Kids Marathon Mile at LEGOLAND California
Date: January 17, 2026
Location: LEGOLAND California, Carlsbad, CA
Description: The Kids Marathon Mile offers a delightful opportunity for children of all ages to engage in a fun 1-mile run before LEGOLAND opens to the public. Each registration helps support the Merlin’s Magic Wand charity.
Borrego Springs Film Festival
Dates: January 14-18, 2026
Location: Borrego Springs Performing Arts Center, Borrego Springs, CA
Description: Celebrating its 13th year, the Borrego Springs Film Festival invites local and independent filmmakers to showcase their work. Featuring a diverse array of narrative, documentary, animation, and short films, this juried festival engages the community and stimulates discussions around the film industry.
San Diego Performers Showcase
Date: January 14, 2026
Location: Chula Vista Public Library Civic Center Branch, Chula Vista, CA
Description: For local talent, the San Diego Performers Showcase provides a platform to share artistic skills with a broader audience. Musicians, dancers, comedians, and other performers will have the chance to connect with local libraries and display their talents.
Wild Holidays at San Diego Zoo Safari Park
Dates: January 1-4, 2026
Location: San Diego Zoo Safari Park, San Diego, CA
Description: Celebrate the festive season with the Wild Holidays event at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. Enjoy enchanting light displays, fanciful characters, musical entertainment, and family-oriented activities that create a magical atmosphere for all ages.
For further information regarding these events, including tickets and additional details, it is advisable to visit the respective websites or contact the event organizers directly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the San Diego Rodeo?
The San Diego Rodeo is a three-day event featuring top rodeo athletes, BeerFest, KidsFest, and daily after-parties with live performances. It takes place from January 16-18, 2026, at Petco Park in San Diego, CA.
When is the San Diego Brew Fest?
The San Diego Brew Fest is scheduled for January 10, 2026, at NTC Park in San Diego, CA. The event offers beer tastings, live music, and food trucks, featuring a diverse assortment of local and international craft beers.
What is the San Diego Resolution Run?
The San Diego Resolution Run is an annual event featuring a 5K, 10K, and Half Marathon at Mission Bay Park in San Diego, CA. It takes place on January 10, 2026.
When is the Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade and Festival?
The 44th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Parade and Festival is scheduled for January 18, 2026, along Harbor Drive in San Diego, CA. The event honors Dr. King’s legacy with marching bands, floats, dancers, exhibits, entertainment, and food.
What is the San Diego International Jewish Film Festival Sneak Peek Day?
The 36th Annual San Diego International Jewish Film Festival Sneak Peek Day is on January 11, 2026, at the David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre in San Diego, CA. It offers a preview of the festival’s offerings, showcasing the best Jewish-related films in various genres.
When is the Kids Marathon Mile at LEGOLAND California?
The Kids Marathon Mile at LEGOLAND California is scheduled for January 17, 2026, in Carlsbad, CA. The event is a 1-mile run designed for children of all ages and abilities, with a portion of each registration supporting Merlin’s Magic Wand charity.
What is the Borrego Springs Film Festival?
The 13th Annual Borrego Springs Film Festival is a juried film festival featuring narrative, documentary, animation, Latino, and short films. It takes place from January 14-18, 2026, at the Borrego Springs Performing Arts Center in Borrego Springs, CA.
When is the San Diego Performers Showcase?
The San Diego Performers Showcase is on January 14, 2026, at the Chula Vista Public Library Civic Center Branch in Chula Vista, CA. The event provides local talent the opportunity to perform and connect with librarians across San Diego County.
What is Wild Holidays at San Diego Zoo Safari Park?
Wild Holidays at San Diego Zoo Safari Park is an event from January 1-4, 2026, featuring an expedition of light with glowing, shining, and twinkling displays. The event includes fanciful characters, musical entertainment, festive storytelling, and culinary treats, creating family fun and holiday cheer.
Event Overview
| Event | Date | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Diego Rodeo | January 16-18, 2026 | Petco Park, San Diego, CA | Inaugural event featuring top rodeo athletes, BeerFest, KidsFest, and daily after-parties with live performances. |
| San Diego Brew Fest | January 10, 2026 | NTC Park, San Diego, CA | Offers a fun-filled day of beer tastings, live music, and food trucks while supporting dog rescue efforts. |
| San Diego Resolution Run | January 10, 2026 | Mission Bay Park, San Diego, CA | Features a 5K, 10K, and Half Marathon to promote health and fitness. |
| Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade and Festival | January 18, 2026 | Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA | Honors Dr. King with a parade featuring marching bands, floats, dancers, exhibits, and food. |
| San Diego International Jewish Film Festival Sneak Peek Day | January 11, 2026 | David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre, San Diego, CA | Preview of the festival’s offerings, showcasing best Jewish-related films in various genres. |
| Kids Marathon Mile at LEGOLAND California | January 17, 2026 | LEGOLAND California, Carlsbad, CA | A fun 1-mile run for children with a portion of registration supporting charity. |
| Borrego Springs Film Festival | January 14-18, 2026 | Borrego Springs Performing Arts Center, Borrego Springs, CA | A juried festival showcasing diverse films and engaging the community. |
| San Diego Performers Showcase | January 14, 2026 | Chula Vista Public Library Civic Center Branch, Chula Vista, CA | Provides local talent the opportunity to perform and connect with libraries. |
| Wild Holidays at San Diego Zoo Safari Park | January 1-4, 2026 | San Diego Zoo Safari Park, San Diego, CA | A holiday event featuring light displays, musical entertainment, and festive activities. |
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