Welcome to the Labor Day weekend! Wondering how to spend it? We have you sorted with a variety of activities to bid farewell to summer. Explore magnificent sand art, indulge in a bacon fest, and enjoy Tchaikovsky’s melodies seaside with our handpicked top 5 events in San Diego this weekend! Remember to verify ticket availability before heading out, as events might reach full capacity.
If you’re interested in San Diego Labor Day Weekend 2016, you may also like our article about San Diego events in November 2016.
Gourmet Bacon and Brews Celebration
- Date & Time: Saturday, September 3rd; 1:00 PM – 5:30 PM;
- Location: Liberty Station (Preble Field).
The city’s passion for pork is showcased at the 4th annual Gourmet Bacon and Brews Celebration! A paradise for bacon aficionados, the event presents unlimited tastings of innovative bacon dishes from top local eateries such as Crazee Burger and Slater’s 50/50, paired with an array of craft beers from renowned breweries. Day-of-event general admission is priced at $65.
Annual Citywide Stickball Championship
- Date & Time: Saturday, September 3rd & Sunday, September 4th; 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM;
- Location: Little Italy; intersecting at State St & W Ash St.
Experience the excitement of the 18th Annual Citywide Stickball Championship, spanning two days of community and competition. Teams vie for the coveted Jillie Trophy amidst the vibrant atmosphere of Little Italy. Spectators can revel in the nostalgia of this East Coast-originated street game and partake in a local tradition that brings together sport and heritage.
Sand Sculpting Challenge & Dimensional Art Exhibit
- Dates: Friday, September 2nd through Monday, September 5th; 9 AM to 7 PM;
- Location: B Street Cruise Ship Terminal Pier; 1140 North Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92101.
Prepare to be amazed by one of the world’s most impressive sand sculpting competitions! An incredible 300 tons of sand is imported onto the B Street Cruise Ship Terminal Pier, setting the stage for a monumental clash of creativity as World Master Sand Sculptors from across the globe go head-to-head with America’s finest. These aren’t just sculptures; they’re massive statements of art, with each piece weighing in excess of 10 tons and stretching the limits of three-dimensional artistry. As you wander through the sculptural wonders, enjoy an array of live performances featuring big bands and talented vocalists, activities tailored for children including a sand box and rides, an assortment of gourmet food trucks to satiate your hunger, and of course, the unmatched view of the idyllic San Diego bay.
1812 Tchaikovsky Spectacular
- Dates: Friday, September 2nd and Saturday, September 3rd; starting at 7:30 PM;
- Location: Embarcadero Marina Park South.
As the Summer Pops season draws to a close, it aims to leave a lasting impression with a pyrotechnic and musical showcase that will illuminate San Diego Bay. The San Diego Symphony will enchant audiences with a stirring rendition of Tchaikovsky’s legendary 1812 Overture, synchronized with a dazzling fireworks display that promises a grand farewell to the summer festivities. Secure your spot for this sensational musical journey, with tickets beginning at $20 and available for purchase now.
Festival of Sail
- Dates: Saturday, September 3rd through Monday, September 5th; 9 AM to 5 PM;
- Location: Maritime Museum of San Diego.
The Festival of Sail is the most grandiose Tall Ship festival on the West Coast, transforming the North Embarcadero into a nautical wonderland for four days brimming with adventure. Witness the majestic sail into San Diego Bay, feel the thunder of cannon salutes, and partake in numerous activities suitable for all ages. The festival features an up-close experience with a petting zoo for children, creative craft activities, face painting, thrilling tall ship cannon battles, a special Festival of Sail bay cruise lasting 30 minutes, a relaxing beer garden for the adults, a plethora of live entertainment, and a wide array of arts and crafts vendors, along with an abundance of food and beverage options to choose from.
Conclusion
Labor Day Weekend in San Diego in 2016 was an unforgettable blend of culinary delights, sports events, art exhibits, and musical performances. The city hosted a series of lively events, from the Bacon Fest at Liberty Station, the engaging Stickball Tournament in Little Italy, the astonishing Sand Sculpting Challenge at B Street Cruise Ship Terminal Pier, to the awe-inspiring 1812 Tchaikovsky Spectacular at Embarcadero Marina Park South, and the thrilling Festival of Sail at the Maritime Museum. As the summer season drew to a close, the city offered a vibrant array of fun, engaging, and cultural activities, ensuring that residents and visitors alike ended their summer on a high note.