San Diego art events and happenings this week

San Diego's vibrant arts scene is in full swing this weekend, offering a diverse array of events for enthusiasts of all kinds.

 

EXPO Design Market at MCASD

 

The Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego (MCASD) is hosting its third annual EXPO Design Market, a two-day event celebrating publishing, design, music, and community. Attendees can explore goods from local vendors, enjoy curated DJ sets, and participate in artist talks. Notably, gallery admission is offered at half-price during the event, providing an excellent opportunity to view exhibitions like "Giants" and "Hometown Heroes." The event runs from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday at MCASD's La Jolla location.

 

'The Color of Silence' Exhibition

 

Art Produce Gallery in North Park is unveiling "The Color of Silence," a collaborative exhibit curated by Francisco Eme. This exhibition pairs visual art with performance to delve into the interplay between noise and silence. The opening reception is scheduled for Saturday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., featuring performances by Joe Cantrell and Amy Cimini. The exhibit will be on display through July 1.

 

North Park Music Festival

 

Music lovers can immerse themselves in the North Park Music Festival, showcasing over 30 live acts across various venues in the neighborhood. Performers include Gaslamp Killer, 18 Scales, Clinton Davis, and more. A $25 wristband grants access to all venues and performances, with VIP passes offering additional perks. The festival takes place from noon to 9 p.m. on Saturday at multiple locations throughout North Park.

 

La Jolla Symphony & Chorus: 'Echoes of the Divine'

 

The La Jolla Symphony & Chorus presents "Echoes of the Divine," featuring the premiere of Akari Komura's "outgrowth," this year's Nee Commission recipient. The program also includes Arvo Pärt's "Berliner Messe" and Maurice Duruflé's "Requiem." Performances are scheduled for 7:30 p.m. on Saturday and 2 p.m. on Sunday at UC San Diego's Mandeville Auditorium.

 

Pattie Gonia: 'SAVE HER!'

 

Drag performer and climate activist Pattie Gonia brings her environmental drag show "SAVE HER!" to San Diego. The performance addresses various climate issues through a blend of glam and activism. The show is set for 8 p.m. on Saturday at Music Box in Little Italy.

 

DISCO RIOT's Queer Mvmnt Fest 2026

 

DISCO RIOT's annual Queer Mvmnt Fest spotlights 2SLGBTQIA+ dancers and choreographers through performances, films, discussions, and workshops. Events are held throughout the week at various locations, with highlights including a variety show on Friday and a featured artist showcase on Saturday at Malashock's Black Box Studio Theater.

 

Golden State Ballet: 'A Midsummer Night's Dream'

 

Golden State Ballet presents its rendition of Shakespeare's "A Midsummer Night's Dream," featuring choreography by artistic director Raul Salamanca. The company will also perform Houston Thomas’ "The Four Seasons," set to Max Richter's reimagining of Vivaldi's work. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, and 1 p.m. on Sunday at Balboa Theatre downtown.

 

Peel Lit Reading

 

Local literary magazine Peel Lit hosts a reading in support of Burn All Books, a local small press and zine haven. The event features readings by Jac Jemc, Kazim Ali, Ana Carete, Paola Capó-García, Ignacio Carvajal, and others. The reading is free and includes a raffle and auction to support the space. It takes place at 7 p.m. on Friday at Burn All Books in Normal Heights.

 

'The Monsters' at La Jolla Playhouse

 

Playwright and actor Ngozi Anyanwu's new work, "The Monsters," explores mixed martial arts and family dynamics between estranged siblings. Directed by Tamilla Woodard, the production stars Anyanwu alongside Sullivan Jones. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Saturday, and 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Sunday at La Jolla Playhouse.

 

'Woodswoman: Earthseed' at New Children's Museum

 

Artist Saya Woolfalk's new installation, "Woodswoman: Earthseed," invites families to explore a whimsical world inspired by science fiction and nature. The installation opens with a free, all-ages reception and artist talk featuring Woolfalk in conversation with Ayana Jamieson. The event is from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday at the New Children's Museum downtown.

 

With such a rich tapestry of events, San Diego offers something for everyone this weekend. Whether you're drawn to visual arts, music, theater, or dance, the city's cultural landscape is vibrant and inviting.