San Diego Weekend: Racing, Music, and Free Admission Options
The city’s fall calendar kicks off with Del Mar racing, a Deftones-curated concert, and complimentary entry for military members.
By Mei Melnyk ·
San Diego’s fall season opens with a packed schedule of events for the weekend of November 6 to 8. The city’s calendar features everything from horse racing to curated music festivals, with several major venues offering free entry to specific groups.
Del Mar racetrack opens its fall meet on Friday, November 6. General admission tickets start at $8. Diamond Club members receive free gate admission, while guests aged 62 and older can enter free with valid ID. Those guests also receive a racing program and a seat at designated gates.
The San Diego Food and Wine Festival runs from November 1 through November 8. The event gathers chefs, winemakers, and innovators from both San Diego and Mexico. Admission costs vary by ticket type.
Saturday brings two major attractions. SeaWorld hosts Military Appreciation Weekend, granting free admission to active duty and veteran members of the U.S. armed forces for SeaWorld, Busch Gardens, and Sesame Place. The park will also hold a patriotic firework show in honor of Veterans Day. At Petco Park, the Deftones present Dia de los DEFTONES at 3:35 p.m. The one-day festival is curated by the band and features live performances.
Family and community events fill the rest of Saturday. Great Big Family Play Day runs from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Liberty Station, with tickets starting at $7.18. The Gem Diego Show takes place Saturday and Sunday at the Liberty Station Conference Center. It is free to attend and features 30 dealers, 20 exhibits, and lapidary demonstrations. North Park hosts a free street fair from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. to showcase local businesses.
Sunday concludes the weekend with cultural and creative options. Slow Fashion Day runs from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. with free admission. The event includes a designers market, live music, and upcycled workshops. The Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego offers free admission to all visitors on the second Sunday of the month, which falls on November 8. Hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
This guide spans the north, south, east, and west of San Diego County. It aims to provide fresh and affordable activities for residents.
Source: KNSD
