By Marc & Darlynne Menkin
It’s that time of the year, Summer is winding down, the kids are headed back to school, and very soon, the days will be shorter.
For some people, September is a dreaded month because it marks the end of those fun-filled lazy Summer days. But before you get too carried away and throw yourself a pity party, remember this: we live in San Diego.
Just because the rest of the nation is trading in their flip-flops for winter boots, doesn’t mean we have to give up our Summer state of mind. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. September is a happening month.
Some of the best events kick off during this time of the year, and the best part about it? It’s easier to get around since the crazy summer crowds are gone.
So what are some of our favorite September happenings? Well if you’re on a budget, we recommend checking out the Coronado Art Walk, September 15 & 16.
It’s a free two-day festival that celebrates the world of art so everything from handcrafted jewelry to amazing photography and one-of-a-kind ceramics are featured.
There are even live bands, so bring your dancing shoes. When we heard about this event years ago, we thought it was a typical street festival. Boy, were we wrong.
The Coronado Historical Association puts on the event and does a good job at carefully selecting the artists. As a result, there are all sorts of unique and varied art, and much of it is reasonably priced.
Two years ago, we spotted so many cool items that we decided to start our Christmas shopping three months early. Come to think of it, our families really scored that year.
The Art Walk will be held from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. on both days at the Coronado Ferry Landing. We’ll be out and about on our weekly Sunday morning bike tours, so don’t forget to say hi if you see us pedaling around town. Better yet, we still have room so come join us!
Speaking of unique things to do, there are several walking events we can’t wait to check out.
Walkabout International has some fabulous walks scheduled in September and it’s all free. If you’re not familiar with this organization, this is a cool non-profit that’s all about promoting good health & fitness while exploring San Diego neighborhoods. Sounds like something right up our alley!
We suggest logging onto their website for a complete list of all the events but the Mission Hills Meander on September 21 is something that’s caught our eye. The one-hour walk is led by volunteer Pat Peterson, who’s been doing this excursion since 1993. We’re looking forward to this adventure because it explores the best of Mission Hills, including a small, out-of-the-way vineyard, a unique cotton tree and historical Pioneer Park. The walks begin at 6 p.m. For more info, visit walkabout-int.org/.
On a similar note, the Mission Hills Historic Home Tour is another walking event we always enjoy. This will be the 8th year the Mission Hills Heritage group has put on this event and for us, it seems to get better and better each year. This time, five to six homes – all of historical significance and amazing architectural design – will be featured.
Whether you’re an expert craftsman or you just like to admire from afar, this is a fun event because it’s entertaining and educational, plus it’s a great way to explore the neighborhood. It’s also a smart way to get decorating ideas! Our tip? Buy your tickets now (online at missionhillsheritage.org) because it always sells out. The event runs from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., on Saturday, September 22.
And finally, when it comes to laughter, we feel you never can laugh too much, which is why we’re super excited that Downtown has a brand new Murder Mystery Dinner Theater Show. Produced by Clever Productions, the first show is called “Speakeasy, Die Hard!” and will be held September 7 at the Dussini Loft Bar in the Old Spaghetti Factory. If you haven’t guessed, the show is all about prohibition, speakeasys, gangsters and murder.
Quite appropriate, given the history of the Gaslamp Quarter’s early Stingaree Days. Learn more at clever-productions.com.
So there you have it – a list of some of our favorite Fall happenings. If we don’t see you at one of these events, be sure to join us on one of our tours or Scavenger Hunts. Remember, there’s always time to play!
We want to hear from you
Everyone loves the movies and with the San Diego Film Festival in town, filmmakers will be out in full force, promoting their movies in creative ways. Your mission? Find a colorful movie poster or something that’s film-related and take a creative freeze-frame dance photo of you and a friend at the festival. Email us the photo to [email protected] by September 29.
The best photo will win either four tickets to an Amazing Race/Scavenger Hunt or four tickets to a Coronado Biking Adventure. Please include the names of the people and the film that’s being promoted. Good luck!
Marc & Darlynne Menkin are the co-owners of “Where You Want To Be Tours.” Many of their tours and team-building scavenger hunts feature secret Downtown areas. They can be reached at [email protected]. For more info about their walking, bicycle and bus tours of San Diego, visit www.wheretours.com.
