Featured Events

‘Museum Month 2016’
Through Monday, Feb. 29

The San Diego Museum Council and Macy’s have once again teamed up to present Museum Month. Participants can pick up a “Museum Month Pass” at any area Macy’s store to receive half-off admission at participating museums for the entire month of February. Visit mcys.co/1P2bppV to find the nearest Macy’s store. Over 40 local museums will participate this year including Coronado Museum of History & Art, Gaslamp Museum at William Heath Davis House, Maritime Museum of San Diego, The New Children’s Museum, USS Midway Museum and many more in and around Downtown, plus many in Balboa Park. Visit tinyurl.com/zyx4exg for more information.

‘Pink in the Rink’
Saturday, Feb. 6

Ticket purchases for tonight’s San Diego Gulls game will benefit Susan G. Komen San Diego. A donation will be made to the foundation for each ticket purchased here: bit.ly/1KIp9EH. The evening will start with a pre-game “tailgate” featuring happy hour pricing on food and drinks, live entertainment and more. There will also be a postgame skate. The game is at 7:05 p.m. against the Milwaukee Admirals at the Valley View Casino Center (3500 Sports Arena Blvd., Midway District). For more information visit sandiegogulls.com.

Fitbit Local fitness session
Saturday, Feb. 6

Part of a free workout program hosted by local fitness experts. Today’s session will include a walk/run and farmers market shopping trip with Fitbit Local Ambassadors Sheri Matthews and Mike Sherbakov. The run/walk will begin at the end of West Cedar Street in front of the San Diego County Waterfront Park (1598 Pacific Coast Highway and 899 W. Cedar). Then a guided healthy shopping trip will occur at the Little Italy Mercato on West Cedar Street between Kettner Boulevard and Front Street. 8:30 – 9:30 a.m. Visit fitbit.com/local-events for more information.

2016 Gaslamp Quarter Mardi Gras
Saturday, Feb. 6

San Diego’s biggest block party returns with a festive parade and celebration featuring five stages of live entertainment. This year’s eclectic music lineup features Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, Mix Master Mike (Beastie Boys), Caked Up, The Aggrolites and much more. The event promises street performances, Mardi Gras-inspired entertainment, live art and the visual treats of the parade. The entire event will be from 5 p.m. – midnight with the parade at 9 p.m. Visit sdmardigras.com for VIP and general admission tickets.

East Village community cleanup
Saturday, Feb. 13 

Downtown San Diego Partnership’s Clean & Safe program will provide trash bags and supplies for this neighborhood cleanup and The District will donate lunch for all volunteers. The cleanup will be from 10 a.m. – noon. Meet at Urbana East Village Flats lobby, 450 10th Ave. Visit tinyurl.com/jew3p4k.

[See below for Valentine’s Day events]

DSDP’s 2016 Installation Dinner
Thursday, Feb. 18

A dinner will be held at the Manchester Grand Hyatt (1 Market Place, Downtown) to install the Downtown San Diego Partnership’s 2016 Board of Directors and Chairman. The reception starts at 5:30 p.m. with dinner at 7 p.m. and an after-party at 8:30 p.m. KUSI News reporter Brandi Williams will emcee the event. Visit downtownsandiego.org for more information.

‘Recipe for a Healthy and Delicious Fall’ cooking class
Thursday, Feb. 18

This is a free class by Scripps nutritionists at Jimbo’s… Naturally! (324 Horton Plaza, Downtown) featuring healthy and delicious meals. This edition’s menu focuses on heart-healthy recipes including: a raspberry green tea smoothie, super food salad with salmon, and chia seed pudding. All ages welcome. Check-in 5:30 p.m. Visit tinyurl.com/j2eb2x5 for more information.

San Diego artists showcase
Friday, Feb. 19

This eclectic event at 98 Bottles (2400 Kettner Blvd., Little Italy) will showcase local talents from visual artists to musical performers. Jazz-funk-soul outfit Tiffany Jane and The Kicks will be the “house band” for the night with several featured singers, including Jonathan Richards, Tom Andrew Potter, Jonathan Edzant, Corona Rose and Randy Robledo. Also performing will be soulful hip-hop group The Lyrical Groove. In addition to music, Culture Shock Dance Center will put on a dance performance; several artists will be displaying and selling art; there will be live painting and pottery making; spoken word performances; and more. 8 p.m. Tickets $10 in advance and $13 at the door. Visit 98bottlessd.com for more information.

San Diego Winter Brew Fest
Friday, Feb. 19 and Saturday, Feb. 20

This festival will feature craft brews from around California and beyond. Live music will be showcased both days, along with food and other vendors. Friday’s entertainment provided by The Fooks; Saturday will be Euphoria Brass Band. This is a 21-and-up event with tickets starting at $40. There will also be a VIP session on Saturday with a special hour with cheese and beer pairing. Benefits Outdoor Outreach and the San Diego Mountain Biking Association. San Diego Winter Brew Fest will kick off at 7 p.m. on Friday at San Diego Hall of Champions (2131 Pan American Plaza, Balboa Park). Visit sandiegobrewfest.com for details and tickets.

‘Symphology: The Science of Sound’
Saturday, Feb. 20

The third of four concerts by the San Diego Symphony as part of its “Family Festival” designed for children 5 – 12 years old. This edition will demonstrate how various instruments make their individual sounds. Attendees will hear how it all comes together “through the sounds and science of a symphony.” The concert starts at 2 p.m. at Copley Symphony Hall (750 B St., Downtown). Visit sandiegosymphony.org.

‘Music in Mind: Beethoven’s Sensual Pastorale’
Saturday, Feb. 20

This special multimedia presentation will feature the San Diego Symphony with guest speakers discussing various topics. The event is open to the public as well as attendees of the Association for Research in Otolaryngology conference. Dr. Charles Limb and Nina Kraus, Ph.D. will be the guest lecturers before the concert discussing various topics including: Beethoven and hearing loss; how music provides a window to the human brain; jazz improvisation and spontaneous creativity; and more. Other highlights of the event will include an appearance by local and world-renowned trumpeter Gilbert Castellanos and an opening lecture by La Jolla Symphony and Chorus music director Steven Schick. Lectures begin at 7:30 p.m. at Copley Symphony Hall (750 B St., Downtown). Tickets are $20 – $65 and can be purchased by phone at 619-235-0804 or online at sandiegosymphony.org.

San Diego Theatre Week
Monday, Feb. 22 – Sunday, Feb. 28

Over 30 local performing arts organizations are collaborating and promoting the first ever San Diego Theatre Week. The various groups will be offering special promotions throughout the week including ticket discounts, offers on concessions, cast talkbacks and more. Some offers will include performances that take place during San Diego Theatre Week and others will be for future events. Visit sandiegotheatreweek.com for more information and a list of participating organizations.

Ron Roberts presents State of the County Address
Thursday, Feb. 25

The chairman of the San Diego County Board of Supervisors, Ron Roberts, who also represents District 4, will present the annual State of the County Address at the San Diego Hall of Champions (2131 Pan American Plaza, Balboa Park) at 6 p.m. Seating is limited. Please RSVP to 619-531-5732 by Feb. 18. A reception will immediately follow the address.

Electric Bike Expo
Friday, Feb. 26 – Sunday, Feb. 28

The Electric Bike Expo will hit Liberty Station for the entire weekend with a free series of events open to the public. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about, test ride and experience electric bikes. Electric bikes utilize a battery and motor making long commutes and difficult terrain easier to navigate. The expo will be open from 3 – 8 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 26; 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 27; and 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 28. Visit electricbike-expo.com for details.

Sweet treats at Bake Sale
Wednesday, Feb. 10 – Sunday, Feb. 14

If your Valentine has a sweet tooth, head to Bake Sale (815 F St., Downtown) for a variety of heart-shaped cookies priced at $2.25 per small cookie and $3.95 per large cookie. Handmade chocolate ganache truffles will also be available for $12 for a box of six and $45 for a box of two dozen. Visit bakesalesd.com for more information.

‘Lovers and lovers of the rind’ cheese pairing class
Thursday, Feb. 11

The Cheese Store of San Diego (1980 Kettner Blvd. #30, Little Italy) will host a unique Valentine’s Day event ahead of the holiday. This class will pair gourmet cheeses with jams, charcuterie, wine, beer and other surprises. You will also learn about cheese and how to pair at home. $54 per person. Visit thecheesestoresd.com for more info and to reserve a seat.

‘Valentine’s Cabaret’ and more at The US Grant
Friday, Feb. 12 – Sunday, Feb. 14

There are several options for Valentine’s Day at The US Grant and Grant Grill (326 Broadway, Downtown). The Grant Grill will serve a four-course, French-inspired dinner with several food options along with a dark chocolate soufflé for two available Friday – Sunday ($85 per person) and an optional wine pairing (additional $55 per person). Reservations from 5:30 – 9 p.m. Call 619-744-2077 for reservations.

The US Grant’s Celestial Ballroom will host a “Valentine’s Cabaret” show by Lamb’s Players Theatre on Feb. 14 only with doors opening at 6:30 p.m. and the show at 7 p.m. Choose from a two-course tasting and the show ($59 per person) or a three-course tasting and the show ($80 per person).

Lastly the hotel will also offer a Valentine’s package with two tickets to the aforementioned cabaret show, a one-night stay, a bottle of sparkling wine at arrival and the option of a two or three-course offering of lounge fare. Call 866-716-8136 for room and package reservations.

Valentine’s events at The Headquarters
Friday, Feb. 12 – Sunday, Feb. 14

The Headquarters (789 West Harbor Drive, Marina District) will help lovers celebrate in several ways over Valentine’s weekend. On Friday, Feb. 12 there will be a free outdoor screening of “Bonnie and Clyde” from 6 – 9 p.m., along with mug shot photo-ops and the chance to check out the fully restored 1939 jail cells. Guests are encouraged to bring chairs and blankets for the screening. Also located at The Headquarters, Gelato Paradiso is offering $2.14 off any cake or 12-pack of gelato pops through Valentine’s Day. Just across the courtyard, Puesto will offer a free rose to any couple dining on Valentine’s Day. Visit theheadquarters.com for more information.

‘Galentine’s Day’
Saturday, Feb. 13

A day for ladies to celebrate the amazing women of our community at the Women’s Museum of California (2730 Historic Decatur Road, Suite #103, Liberty Station). This free event will be a chance to network with other women and explore the museum. The event will be from 1 – 4 p.m. and there will be mimosas served. Visit conta.cc/1UvKXc7 to RSVP.

‘Valentine’s Jazz Evening’
Saturday, Feb. 13 and Sunday, Feb. 14

Hornblower Cruises & Events San Diego will present two opportunities for a romantic evening at The Abbey (2825 Fifth Ave., Bankers Hill). The 1910 landmark was originally constructed as an Episcopal church and is San Diego’s only remaining Classic Revival structure. These Valentine’s weekend events will not only be a chance to admire this beautiful venue but will also include sweet and savory bites, and live entertainment by jazz musician David Patrone. Tickets start at $49 (plus tax and service fee) and include free-flowing Champagne, a reserved table and more. VIP tickets ($69 plus tax and service fee) offer VIP balcony seating, two premium drink tickets per person and more. Saturday’s event will be from 9 – 11 p.m.; and Sunday’s festivities will be from 8 – 10 p.m. Visit hornblower.com for more information and tickets.

Valentine’s Day cruises
Sunday, Feb. 14

Flagship Cruises & Events (990 North Harbor Drive, Downtown) will set sail twice on Valentine’s Day with romantic cruise options. Each cruise includes boarding Champagne, musical entertainment and dancing and 24 miles of romantic skyline views. Their brunch cruise boards at 10:30 a.m. and includes a two-hour gourmet brunch buffet, unlimited mimosas, and complimentary coffee and tea. Tickets for the brunch cruise are $69.50 for adults, $41.70 for children 4 – 12 years of age and free for children 3 and under (taxes, service charge and landing fee are additional). The dinner cruise boards at 6 p.m. and includes a three-course plated gourmet meal. Tickets for the dinner cruise are $99.50 for adults, $59.70 for children 4 – 12 and free for children 3 and under (taxes, service charge and landing fee are additional). There is also a hosted bar option for $26 per person during the dinner cruise featuring beer, wine and top shelf liquor cocktails. Visit flagshipsd.com to see the menus and book your cruise.

‘Special Valentine’s Day Sonnets’ and ‘Soulful Love Show’
Sunday, Feb. 14

A special meeting of the San Diego Shakespeare Society will be held at Upstart Crow Bookstore and Coffeehouse (835C W. Harbor Drive, Seaport Village). This free event will feature readings of some of Shakespeare’s most romantic sonnets. The event starts at 2:30 p.m. Afterward, Upstart will host live music from 5 – 7 p.m. with Stacey Murray dubbed the “Soulful Love Show.” Visit upstartcrowtrading.com or call 619-333-0141 for more information.

‘Valentine’s Day at the Museum’
Sunday, Feb. 14

This unique opportunity will start with an after-hours, love-themed art tour at The San Diego Museum of Art (1450 El Prado, Balboa Park). Tours will start every half-hour from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. After the tour, couples will enjoy a picnic in the May S. Marcy Sculpture Court and Garden at Panama 66. Their picnic basket will be packed with gourmet sandwiches, a cheese or vegan plate, chocolate truffles and a bottle of Champagne, wine or a growler of craft beer. Musical entertainment will be provided by Miss Erika Davies. Tickets are $80 for members and $90 for nonmembers. Visit sdmart.org for more information and to purchase e-tickets.

WEEKLY RECURRING EVENTS

TUESDAY

Residents Free Tuesdays in Balboa Park: Participating museums change the first four Tuesdays of the month. Free for San Diego city and county residents with ID, active military and dependents. Hours vary by museum. Visit balboapark.org/visit/Tuesdays.

Coronado Certified Farmers Market: 2:30 – 6 p.m. First and B streets at Coronado Ferry Landing. Visit welcometocoronado.com.

Sunset Trivia: Bring a team or play alone. 7 – 9 p.m. 98 Bottles, 2400 Kettner Blvd., Little Italy. Visit 98bottlessd.com.

WEDNESDAY

Comedy Open Mic: Up-and-coming comics test their skills while patrons enjoy drink and appetizer specials and no cover. 8 p.m. American Comedy Company, 818 Sixth Ave., Gaslamp. Visit americancomedyco.com.

THURSDAY

Sunset Trivia: Bring a team or play alone. 7 – 9 p.m. 98 Bottles, 2400 Kettner Blvd., Little Italy. Visit 98bottlessd.com.

FRIDAY

Weekly Downtown San Diego Partnership walkabouts: Join DSDP’s Clean & Safe program at 10 a.m. in alternating neighborhoods: Cortez Hill, Core/Columbia, Gaslamp Quarter, Marina and East Village. For more info, call 619-234-8900, visit downtownsandiego.org or sign up for their newsletter.

Take a bite out of Downtown: Hosted by food tour service Bite San Diego, join fellow foodies and winos for a historical walking tour sampling some of Downtown’s finest restaurants. 21+. Noon. Tickets are $45. Tours also on Saturday. Visit bitesandiego.com/index.php.

SATURDAY

Little Italy Mercato: 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. Rain or shine, visit over 100 booths on West Cedar Street between Kettner Boulevard and Front Street. Visit littleitalysd.com/mercato.

The Gaslamp Architectural Walking Tour: Stops on this tour include architecturally significant structures from the 1800s including Old City Hall, the Keating Building, William Heath Davis House Museum and more. 11 a.m. 410 Island Ave., Gaslamp. Visit gaslampquarter.org.

SUNDAY

Walk-in eReader and device assistance: Free and open to the public. Bring your Android and iOS devices for hands-on learning. 2 – 4 p.m. Room 222, San Diego Central Library, 330 Park Blvd., Downtown. Visit sandiegolibrary.org.

Outdoor organ concert: The San Diego Organ Society presents a free organ concert. With over 4,500 pipes, this organ is one of the largest organs in the world with a wonderful sound, playing classic and popular hits by Carol Williams. Enjoy free parking, lots of seating. Balboa Park’s Organ Pavilion. 2 p.m. Visit balboapark.org.

—Compiled by Jen Van Tieghem. Send items for inclusion to editor Morgan M. Hurley at [email protected]. 

Editor’s Note: We are trying out some changes to our calendar this year. Let us know what you think by writing to [email protected].