Don’t let the end of festive merriment dampen your spirits! The lively city of San Diego continues to bask in the aftermath of holiday euphoria with much excitement to offer. With an abundance of dining opportunities, vibrant nightlife, and a variety of activities, San Diego will surely keep the winter blues distant. Here, we delve into the top experiences to explore in San Diego this January, promising an exciting start to your year.
SoundON Festival of Contemporary Music: An Auditory Adventure
January 8 – 11
The 2015 edition of the SoundON Festival of Contemporary Music offers a platform for the dynamic and explorative ensemble, NOISE. This unique event exhibits some of the most innovative work in the world of music with debut performances from esteemed composers such as Mark Menzies, Christopher Adler, and the festival’s recurrent hit, Juan Campoverde Q. Other highlights include musical masterpieces from Sidney Marquez Boquiren and New York’s own Eric Wubbels. As a nod to the legends of the field, the festival also includes performances of pieces by Pierre Boulez, Elliott Carter, and San Diego’s native maestro, Chinary Ung. The Athenaeum’s Joan & Irwin Music Room and the School Studio on Park Blvd. in University Heights will serve as the enchanting venues for these performances.
Experience Winter Magic at the Poway Winter Festival
January 9 & 10
Step into a winter wonderland right in the heart of the city with the enchanting Poway Winter Festival. Scheduled to take place from 5:00 to 9:00 PM on Friday, January 9, and from 4:00 to 9:00 PM on Saturday, January 10, at the Poway Community Park, the festival offers a unique experience of snow-clad charm.
Here’s what you can look forward to:
- Snow play: Feel the cool snowflakes melt between your fingers as you whizz down the exhilarating sled hill;
- S’mores galore: Bask in the aroma of marshmallows roasting over an open fire as you prepare your own delicious s’mores;
- Ice Skating: Lace up your skates and glide around the ice rink—no matter your age or skill level;
- Local Vendors: Explore aisles of local vendors displaying a myriad of unique products and artisanal goods.
Experience the magic of a snowy mountain town without leaving the comfort of sunny San Diego at the Poway Winter Festival!
Borrego Springs Film Festival: A Century of Cinematic Excellence
January 15 – 19
Since the early 20th Century, Borrego Springs has become a of beacon for filmmakers. The dazzling desertscapes found their first admirer in Nell Shipman, a pioneering filmmaker and actress in 1920, and the love story between the reel and the springs has continued since. Genres spanning from silent films, comedies, and science fiction to war themes and westerns have all found a home in Borrego Springs.
This January, be part of the ongoing tradition as Borrego Springs hosts its Film Festival. Independent and major studios come together to celebrate their creations, amidst the awe-inspiring backdrop of the Anza-Borrego desert. The festival provides an ideal retreat from the bustling city life, immersing attendees in the magic of cinema while basking in the serenity of the springs.
Cabrillo National Monument’s Whale Watch Weekend & Intertidal Festival
Saturday, January 17 & Sunday, January 18
Set aside your weekend for a marine extravaganza at The Cabrillo National Monument’s 28th annual Whale Watch Weekend and Intertidal Life Festival. Running from 10am to 4:30pm on both days, the festival serves as a learning and exploration platform for marine life enthusiasts.
Expect a medley of engaging activities including:
- Premier Whale Watching: Cabrillo National Monument offers one of San Diego’s most scenic spots for observing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat;
- Tide Pool Exploration: Discover the fascinating life forms that call the tide pools home;
- Environmental Education: Participate in informative sessions about marine preservation and the adverse effects of plastic pollution, such as the Great Pacific Garbage Patch;
- Interactive Storytelling for Children: Young attendees can enjoy captivating stories about the sea and its myriad creatures.
This festival not only brings attention to the importance of ocean conservation but also provides fun, interactive educational experiences for the whole family.
Energizing Kids’ Mile at LEGOLAND: Fun-Centric Marathon for Children
Saturday, January 17, 7:45 am
LEGOLAND California is hosting an interactive and enjoyable 1-mile marathon specifically designed for children of all ages and abilities. Before the park opens its doors to the general public, it invites children and their parents to embark on a fun-filled run within its creative confines. From running and walking to skipping or simply strolling, participants are encouraged to complete the mile in their own unique style. Children even have the option of being pushed in a pram or being carried on a parent’s back.
This energizing mile finishes amidst cheering spectators, adding to the children’s sense of accomplishment. Each participant receives a dazzling finisher’s medal and can enjoy a lively after-party filled with engaging activities, refreshing snacks, and an energetic DJ. When LEGOLAND opens at 10 am, registered participants aged 12 and under receive complimentary entry, while parents can enjoy 50% off on their admission price.
Sheila R. Hardin San Diego Multicultural Festival: A Celebration of Diversity
Saturday, January 17, 11 am-5 pm
Experience the vibrancy of diverse cultures at the 17th Annual Sheila R. Hardin San Diego Multicultural Festival. This family-friendly event promises a day brimming with joyous celebration of San Diego’s rich cultural and traditional heritage. The festival offers a kaleidoscope of entertainments from around the world, food stations serving global delicacies, vendors showcasing their artisanal wares, and much more.
Festival highlights include:
- A beautiful downtown waterfront park adding a scenic touch to the event;
- Traditional heritage music and dance performances showcasing a variety of cultures;
- Ethnic markets providing a glimpse into global handicrafts and merchandise;
- Local and regional vendors offering a range of interesting products;
- A dedicated kids’ zone, replete with engaging activities to keep the little ones entertained;
- Multicultural storytelling sessions, offering glimpses into varied cultural narratives.
The Picture-perfect Carlsbad Marathon & Half-Marathon
Sunday, January 18, 6:15 am
Prepare for a fantastic running experience unlike any other at the Carlsbad Marathon & Half-Marathon, proudly presented by the Tri-City Medical Center. These sought-after winter events offer the picturesque backdrop of the Pacific Ocean and the charming Carlsbad Village—formulating this race an unforgettable one. Race participants will enjoy mild weather conditions, a route that takes them by the California coastline, filled with scenic ocean views, and a lively atmosphere with live music at every mile.
The Runners’ Rewards:
- A technical fabric t-shirt to commemorate the race;
- A goodie bag stuffed with surprises;
- A finisher’s medal as a proud proof of their achievement.
Starting and finishing at Westfield Plaza Camino Real at 2525 El Camino Real, Carlsbad, both the races promise an unparalleled experience to both the participants and cheering bystanders.
35th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade: A Celebration of Equality
Sunday, January 18, 2 pm
Get ready for one of the biggest nationwide celebrations dedicated to the life and achievements of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the influential American civil rights leader. The 35th annual parade is set to bring the Harbor Drive alive with color, energy, and a spirit of unity.
The parade features:
- Floats depicting inspiring scenes;
- Melodious high school bands;
- Enthusiastic drill teams from colleges and fraternities;
- Engaging participation from churches, organizations, and peace and youth groups.
Organized by the Zeta Sigma Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., the oldest African American fraternity, founded in 1906. This grand parade is an annual tribute to Dr. King’s monumental contribution towards racial equality and peace.
Culinary Delights at San Diego Restaurant Week
January 18 – 24
Ditch the kitchen and indulge your senses at San Diego Restaurant Week! Offering a gastronomic tour around the city from January 18-24, the event invites you to feast on delectable culinary creations from over 180 participating restaurants.
Food enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of two-course lunches pegged at $10, $15, and $20, while sumptuous three-course dinners are available at $20, $30, $40, or $50. With a wide range of local and international dishes, there’s a flavorful experience awaiting for every palate. No tickets required, simply reserve a spot at a participating restaurant, order from their exclusive prix-fixe menu and embark on a culinary adventure!
Spotlight on Cinema: San Diego Black Film Festival
January 29 – February 1
The San Diego Black Film Festival takes center-stage as one of the year’s first and largest black film festivals. With a focus on “African American & African Diaspora Cinema,” the festival screens over 100 films annually, showcasing genres from comedy, drama, and documentaries to animation, GLBT, horror, and religious themes.
The festival’s mission is to continue to build a world-class platform for diverse cinema arts. It is a fantastic opportunity for filmmakers, lovers of cinema, and enthusiasts looking to explore the wide spectrum of African American and African Diaspora cinema.
Energetic Entertainment at Monster Jam 2015
Saturday, January 31, 7 pm – 10 pm
Ready for a thrilling experience unlike any other? Monster Jam, one of the world’s largest and renowned monster truck tours, is coming to Petco Park in San Diego for the first time! The event, scheduled over two nights (January 17 and 31), features massive trucks and fearless drivers, providing a mesmerizing spectacle.
Watch iconic monster trucks such as the Grave Digger driven by Carl Van Horn, Dragon, Son-uva Digger, Monster Mutt Rottweiler, NEA Police, and Captain’s Curse in action, along with many others. This adrenaline-fueled event is sure to entertain and astound!
Conclusion
San Diego, rich with diverse experiences and adventures, continues its energy and vibrance into January. From jubilant marathons and parades to compelling film festivals and the bustling Restaurant Week, San Diego has an exciting palette of events lined up. Whether you’re a food connoisseur, an avid runner, a film enthusiast, or a fan of monster trucks, there are unique experiences waiting for you. So, embrace the new year with an array of unforgettable activities that San Diego has to offer in January. To learn more about San Diego, check Events in April. It’s a great way to discover local culture and activities in this beautiful coastal community.