Local Cross-Cultural Events
* Upcoming Events *
Wednesday, August 5
| 4:00 PM | Varenyky Making Day Join Us for Varenyky Making Day – Choose Your Date or Come to All Three!!! We invite you to take part in our Varenyky Making Day, dedicated to preparing traditional Ukrainian dumplings. It’s a volunteer effort to support the House of Ukraine. Together, we will make varenyky that will be sold during Ukrainian Festival in Balboa Park, to raise funds for our organization. About the Dish: Varenyky are traditional Ukrainian dumplings made from unleavened dough with various fillings such as potato, cheese, sauerkraut, mushrooms, or fruit. They are typically served with sour cream or fried onions — a comforting symbol of Ukrainian hospitality.
International Cottages |
| 7:00 PM | Stage: Scapin This high-energy comedy follows Scapin, the world’s greatest con artist, as he manipulates, schemes, and straight-up lies his way through an impossible situation, always one step ahead and turning every problem into a hilarious new opportunity. When two young lovers find themselves up against stubborn, money-minded fathers, Scapin jumps into action with outrageous tricks, bold lies, and comic chaos at every turn. A fresh, modern take on Molière’s beloved farce is packed with mischief, surprises, and nonstop laughs.
North Coast Repertory Theatre |
| Stage: Cyrano Brilliant poet, dazzling swordsman, and hopeless romantic, Cyrano is as quick with a quip as he is with a blade. But behind his bluster lies shame about his physical appearance. When the beautiful, soulful Roxane—whom Cyrano has loved all his life—falls for a handsome young soldier, Cyrano’s insecurity prompts him to hide his true feelings and lend his rival the words to woo the woman they both adore. In this exuberant and irreverent adaptation of the classic Cyrano de Bergerac, comedy and pathos collide in a tale bursting with wit, romance, and panache. Cyrano is a celebration of love in all its forms—the bold, the bashful, and the heartbreakingly brave.
The Old Globe |
| 7:30 PM | Stage: The Family Album Singer-songwriter Mia Bing has been hustling for years and is on the cusp of breaking through in the music industry. Just as she receives the call that could change her career, she’s pulled back to her childhood home, where she’s once again the “disappointing” daughter of her Asian immigrant parents, still haunted by an unresolved secret. Mia must learn to use her voice to confront and heal from the past. In 2017, MILCK and AG’s “Quiet” became a viral sensation around the world as an anthem of the Women’s March. That same spirit inspired them and acclaimed playwright Sam Chanse to draw on each of their personal stories to create The Family Album, a humorous and poignant original musical about finding and reclaiming your voice and using it for change. Commissioned by La Jolla Playhouse, The Family Album features a soulful power-pop score by MILCK and AG. Director Jess McLeod is known for work that blends emotional intimacy with expansive visual storytelling. This powerful, uplifting new musical is a journey through the healing power of connection. It will hit you right in the heart.
La Jolla Playhouse |
| 8:00 PM | Stage: Much Ado About Nothing Love, laughter, and mischief take center stage in one of the greatest romantic comedies ever written. Everyone can see that headstrong Beatrice and confirmed bachelor Benedick are perfect for each other—except Beatrice and Benedick! Their friends set out to bring them together, and soon elaborate schemes, false accusations, mistaken identities, and even a bumbling police force tangle in one of The Bard’s most beguiling theatrical delights. Celebrated Shakespeare director Barry Edelstein returns to the outdoor stage with this fast-paced, witty production full of colorful characters, brilliant wordplay, and genuine heart.
The Old Globe |
Thursday, August 6
| 5:00 PM | Talk: U.S.-China Relations In welcoming U.S. President Donald Trump to Beijing in May for a summit, Chinese President Xi Jinping sought to find an answer to the question of whether China and the U.S. would be able to overcome the Thucydides Trap and create a new paradigm of major country relations. After two days of intense conversation, the two leaders offered a tentative “yes,” proposing to create a new era of what they called “constructive strategic stability.” Following in the tradition of Susan Shirk, who insists on asking difficult questions and challenging conventional wisdom, the political scientist Graham Allison will devote this lecture to examining both the promise and the limits of that vision.
Sanford Consortium |
| 7:00 PM | Stage: Scapin This high-energy comedy follows Scapin, the world’s greatest con artist, as he manipulates, schemes, and straight-up lies his way through an impossible situation, always one step ahead and turning every problem into a hilarious new opportunity. When two young lovers find themselves up against stubborn, money-minded fathers, Scapin jumps into action with outrageous tricks, bold lies, and comic chaos at every turn. A fresh, modern take on Molière’s beloved farce is packed with mischief, surprises, and nonstop laughs.
North Coast Repertory Theatre |
| Music: Monsieur Periné Monsieur Periné is a Bogotá-based musical ensemble from Colombia with an Afro-Colombian sound that mixes Latin and European flavors. Lead singer Catalina García sings in a mixture of Spanish, French, English, and Portuguese.
House of Blues |
| Stage: Cyrano Brilliant poet, dazzling swordsman, and hopeless romantic, Cyrano is as quick with a quip as he is with a blade. But behind his bluster lies shame about his physical appearance. When the beautiful, soulful Roxane—whom Cyrano has loved all his life—falls for a handsome young soldier, Cyrano’s insecurity prompts him to hide his true feelings and lend his rival the words to woo the woman they both adore. In this exuberant and irreverent adaptation of the classic Cyrano de Bergerac, comedy and pathos collide in a tale bursting with wit, romance, and panache. Cyrano is a celebration of love in all its forms—the bold, the bashful, and the heartbreakingly brave.
The Old Globe |
| 7:30 PM | Stage: The Family Album Singer-songwriter Mia Bing has been hustling for years and is on the cusp of breaking through in the music industry. Just as she receives the call that could change her career, she’s pulled back to her childhood home, where she’s once again the “disappointing” daughter of her Asian immigrant parents, still haunted by an unresolved secret. Mia must learn to use her voice to confront and heal from the past. In 2017, MILCK and AG’s “Quiet” became a viral sensation around the world as an anthem of the Women’s March. That same spirit inspired them and acclaimed playwright Sam Chanse to draw on each of their personal stories to create The Family Album, a humorous and poignant original musical about finding and reclaiming your voice and using it for change. Commissioned by La Jolla Playhouse, The Family Album features a soulful power-pop score by MILCK and AG. Director Jess McLeod is known for work that blends emotional intimacy with expansive visual storytelling. This powerful, uplifting new musical is a journey through the healing power of connection. It will hit you right in the heart.
La Jolla Playhouse |
| 8:00 PM | Music: Grupo Frontera Grupo Frontera is an American regional Mexican band from Edinburg, Texas. The band currently consists of lead vocalist Adelaido "Payo" Solís III, accordionist and backing vocalist Juan Javier Cantú, congas player Julian Peña Jr., bajo quinto player Alberto "Beto" Acosta, and drummer Carlos Guerrero.
Viejas Arena |
| Stage: Much Ado About Nothing Love, laughter, and mischief take center stage in one of the greatest romantic comedies ever written. Everyone can see that headstrong Beatrice and confirmed bachelor Benedick are perfect for each other—except Beatrice and Benedick! Their friends set out to bring them together, and soon elaborate schemes, false accusations, mistaken identities, and even a bumbling police force tangle in one of The Bard’s most beguiling theatrical delights. Celebrated Shakespeare director Barry Edelstein returns to the outdoor stage with this fast-paced, witty production full of colorful characters, brilliant wordplay, and genuine heart.
The Old Globe |
Friday, August 7
| 7:00 PM | Music: Eastern Visions Encounters with Eastern music left a lasting mark on Western composers, from the sounds of gamelan heard by Debussy at the World Fair to Lou Harrison and John Cage’s lifelong fascination with Javanese and Indian sounds, culminating in a newly created chamber work based on Rimsky-Korsakov’s Scheherazade.
The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center |
| Music: Siddhartha Music: Siddhartha
Siddhartha is the stage name of Mexican musician Fernando Iglesias, known for his indie rock and pop sound, with influences from psychedelic and electronic music. Siddhartha gained recognition in the Latin American music scene with his debut album "Why You?" released in 2008.
The Observatory North Park |
| Toro Nagashi Festival Toro Nagashi (floating lanterns) is a ceremony to honor those who have passed. The floating lanterns commemorate loved ones and wish them peace. Guests will be able to float their candle-lit lanterns (LED candles) in the lower garden stream during the evening ceremony on Friday, August 7th and Saturday, August 8th.
Japanese Friendship Garden & Museum |
| Comedy: Hans Kim Hans Kim is an innovative and groundbreaking stand-up comedy act known for his intelligent yet irreverent approach to his material. Drawing inspiration from his Korean background and broader pop culture, Hans Kim is capable of making audiences laugh in ways that few before him have been capable of.
American Comedy Co. |
| Stage: Les Misérables School Edition San Diego Junior Theatre’s production of Les Misérables brings Victor Hugo’s timeless story of hope, sacrifice, and resilience to the stage with a cast of more than 50 talented young performers. This beloved musical explores justice, mercy, sacrifice, and the possibility of change, all brought to life in a sweeping theatrical experience filled with heart, power, and unforgettable music.
Casa del Prado Theatre |
| Stage: Cyrano Brilliant poet, dazzling swordsman, and hopeless romantic, Cyrano is as quick with a quip as he is with a blade. But behind his bluster lies shame about his physical appearance. When the beautiful, soulful Roxane—whom Cyrano has loved all his life—falls for a handsome young soldier, Cyrano’s insecurity prompts him to hide his true feelings and lend his rival the words to woo the woman they both adore. In this exuberant and irreverent adaptation of the classic Cyrano de Bergerac, comedy and pathos collide in a tale bursting with wit, romance, and panache. Cyrano is a celebration of love in all its forms—the bold, the bashful, and the heartbreakingly brave.
The Old Globe |
| 7:30 PM | Stage: The Family Album Singer-songwriter Mia Bing has been hustling for years and is on the cusp of breaking through in the music industry. Just as she receives the call that could change her career, she’s pulled back to her childhood home, where she’s once again the “disappointing” daughter of her Asian immigrant parents, still haunted by an unresolved secret. Mia must learn to use her voice to confront and heal from the past. In 2017, MILCK and AG’s “Quiet” became a viral sensation around the world as an anthem of the Women’s March. That same spirit inspired them and acclaimed playwright Sam Chanse to draw on each of their personal stories to create The Family Album, a humorous and poignant original musical about finding and reclaiming your voice and using it for change. Commissioned by La Jolla Playhouse, The Family Album features a soulful power-pop score by MILCK and AG. Director Jess McLeod is known for work that blends emotional intimacy with expansive visual storytelling. This powerful, uplifting new musical is a journey through the healing power of connection. It will hit you right in the heart.
La Jolla Playhouse |
| 8:00 PM | Music: Anuhea Music: Anuhea
Anuhea is a singer-songwriter from Hawaii who specializes in the genres of pop, folk, and reggae. Her most popular tracks include "Higher Than The Clouds," "Like The Way It Feels," and "Right Love, Wrong Time."
Harrah's Resort |
| Stage: Scapin This high-energy comedy follows Scapin, the world’s greatest con artist, as he manipulates, schemes, and straight-up lies his way through an impossible situation, always one step ahead and turning every problem into a hilarious new opportunity. When two young lovers find themselves up against stubborn, money-minded fathers, Scapin jumps into action with outrageous tricks, bold lies, and comic chaos at every turn. A fresh, modern take on Molière’s beloved farce is packed with mischief, surprises, and nonstop laughs.
North Coast Repertory Theatre |
| Stage: Much Ado About Nothing Love, laughter, and mischief take center stage in one of the greatest romantic comedies ever written. Everyone can see that headstrong Beatrice and confirmed bachelor Benedick are perfect for each other—except Beatrice and Benedick! Their friends set out to bring them together, and soon elaborate schemes, false accusations, mistaken identities, and even a bumbling police force tangle in one of The Bard’s most beguiling theatrical delights. Celebrated Shakespeare director Barry Edelstein returns to the outdoor stage with this fast-paced, witty production full of colorful characters, brilliant wordplay, and genuine heart.
The Old Globe |
| 8:30 PM | Toro Nagashi Festival Toro Nagashi (floating lanterns) is a ceremony to honor those who have passed. The floating lanterns commemorate loved ones and wish them peace. Guests will be able to float their candle-lit lanterns (LED candles) in the lower garden stream during the evening ceremony on Friday, August 7th and Saturday, August 8th.
Japanese Friendship Garden & Museum |
| 9:00 PM | Comedy: Hans Kim Hans Kim is an innovative and groundbreaking stand-up comedy act known for his intelligent yet irreverent approach to his material. Drawing inspiration from his Korean background and broader pop culture, Hans Kim is capable of making audiences laugh in ways that few before him have been capable of.
American Comedy Co. |
Saturday, August 8
| 10:00 AM | Talk: The Business of Immigration Immigration has long shaped the identity, economy, and culture of the San Diego–Baja California region. Today, it remains one of the most significant—and often most debated—public policy issues facing our communities. As employers grapple with workforce shortages, governments respond to evolving immigration policies, and families pursue opportunity and security, important questions arise about the economic, ethical, and practical implications of immigration for our region\'s future. As part of the Engage San Diego: Tough Topics, Real Discussion series, moderator Andrew Blum will lead a thoughtful conversation with leaders from the private sector and local government to examine these issues from multiple perspectives. Together, the panel will explore how immigration and immigration policy influence regional economic growth, workforce development, cross-border commerce, public services, and community well-being. The discussion will consider both the opportunities and the challenges immigration presents for employers, policymakers, and the broader San Diego economy, while also examining the ethical considerations that inform business and public policy decisions. Rather than advocating for a single viewpoint, this program is designed to foster informed, respectful dialogue and deepen public understanding of one of the defining issues of our time. Through a balanced exchange of ideas, panelists will explore practical approaches to strengthening our region while recognizing the diverse perspectives that shape this complex conversation.
UCSD Division of Extended Studies |
| 11:00 AM | House of China Lawn Program Join the House of China in celebration of PandaFest Day!
International Cottages |
| 2:00 PM | Stage: The Family Album Singer-songwriter Mia Bing has been hustling for years and is on the cusp of breaking through in the music industry. Just as she receives the call that could change her career, she’s pulled back to her childhood home, where she’s once again the “disappointing” daughter of her Asian immigrant parents, still haunted by an unresolved secret. Mia must learn to use her voice to confront and heal from the past. In 2017, MILCK and AG’s “Quiet” became a viral sensation around the world as an anthem of the Women’s March. That same spirit inspired them and acclaimed playwright Sam Chanse to draw on each of their personal stories to create The Family Album, a humorous and poignant original musical about finding and reclaiming your voice and using it for change. Commissioned by La Jolla Playhouse, The Family Album features a soulful power-pop score by MILCK and AG. Director Jess McLeod is known for work that blends emotional intimacy with expansive visual storytelling. This powerful, uplifting new musical is a journey through the healing power of connection. It will hit you right in the heart.
La Jolla Playhouse |
| Stage: Scapin This high-energy comedy follows Scapin, the world’s greatest con artist, as he manipulates, schemes, and straight-up lies his way through an impossible situation, always one step ahead and turning every problem into a hilarious new opportunity. When two young lovers find themselves up against stubborn, money-minded fathers, Scapin jumps into action with outrageous tricks, bold lies, and comic chaos at every turn. A fresh, modern take on Molière’s beloved farce is packed with mischief, surprises, and nonstop laughs.
North Coast Repertory Theatre |
| Stage: Les Misérables School Edition San Diego Junior Theatre’s production of Les Misérables brings Victor Hugo’s timeless story of hope, sacrifice, and resilience to the stage with a cast of more than 50 talented young performers. This beloved musical explores justice, mercy, sacrifice, and the possibility of change, all brought to life in a sweeping theatrical experience filled with heart, power, and unforgettable music.
Casa del Prado Theatre |
| Stage: Cyrano Brilliant poet, dazzling swordsman, and hopeless romantic, Cyrano is as quick with a quip as he is with a blade. But behind his bluster lies shame about his physical appearance. When the beautiful, soulful Roxane—whom Cyrano has loved all his life—falls for a handsome young soldier, Cyrano’s insecurity prompts him to hide his true feelings and lend his rival the words to woo the woman they both adore. In this exuberant and irreverent adaptation of the classic Cyrano de Bergerac, comedy and pathos collide in a tale bursting with wit, romance, and panache. Cyrano is a celebration of love in all its forms—the bold, the bashful, and the heartbreakingly brave.
The Old Globe |
| 4:00 PM | Film: Tales from Earthsea From the legendary Studio Ghibli, creators of Spirited Away and Howl’s Moving Castle, and the director of From Up on Poppy Hill, comes an animated fantasy epic based on the classic book series by Ursula K. Le Guin As crops dwindle and dragons reappear, mankind stands on the verge of total chaos. Lord Archmage Sparrowhawk, a powerful wizard, and Arren, a troubled young prince, search for the force behind this mysterious imbalance that threatens to destroy the land of Earthsea, in a tale of redemption and self-discovery that will take your breath away. Featuring the voices of Timothy Dalton, Willem Dafoe, Cheech Marin, and Mariska Hargitay. Fathom events do not qualify for Unlimited subscriptions.
Multiple Regal Theaters |
| 5:00 PM | Music: Comunidad de Luz Philharmonic Featuring acclaimed conductor Maestro Diego Gurrera and pianist Lesi Mei Celebrate the transformative power of music and support Comunidad de Luz Shelter (an initiative of the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego) for immigrant women & children in Tijuana Mexico. This year’s concert program features two ambitious works that explore human resilience in the face of hardship. Pianist Lesi Mei will perform Sergei Prokofiev’s Piano Concerto No. 2. The second half of the program features Dmitri Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 11, “The Year 1905.”
St. Paul's Episcopal Cathedral |
| 6:00 PM | Exhibit: Culture & Colors The House of Pacific Relations at Balboa Park invites you to be a part of a vibrant, cross-cultural exhibition celebrating the diverse heritage of our community. Culture and Colors: A Celebration of Global Artistry is a one-day exhibition dedicated to showcasing the unique traditions, histories, and contemporary expressions of member houses through visual art.
Balboa Park Club |
| 7:00 PM | Music: Roots Feel the pulse of Eastern Europe in music drawn from village dances, folk songs, and centuries-old traditions. Composers channel the raw vitality of these sounds into works of sweeping drama and rhythmic fire—music that carries the spirit of the countryside onto the concert stage.
The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center |
| Toro Nagashi Festival Toro Nagashi (floating lanterns) is a ceremony to honor those who have passed. The floating lanterns commemorate loved ones and wish them peace. Guests will be able to float their candle-lit lanterns (LED candles) in the lower garden stream during the evening ceremony on Friday, August 7th and Saturday, August 8th.
Japanese Friendship Garden & Museum |
| Comedy: Hans Kim Hans Kim is an innovative and groundbreaking stand-up comedy act known for his intelligent yet irreverent approach to his material. Drawing inspiration from his Korean background and broader pop culture, Hans Kim is capable of making audiences laugh in ways that few before him have been capable of.
American Comedy Co. |
| 8:00 PM | Stage: The Family Album Singer-songwriter Mia Bing has been hustling for years and is on the cusp of breaking through in the music industry. Just as she receives the call that could change her career, she’s pulled back to her childhood home, where she’s once again the “disappointing” daughter of her Asian immigrant parents, still haunted by an unresolved secret. Mia must learn to use her voice to confront and heal from the past. In 2017, MILCK and AG’s “Quiet” became a viral sensation around the world as an anthem of the Women’s March. That same spirit inspired them and acclaimed playwright Sam Chanse to draw on each of their personal stories to create The Family Album, a humorous and poignant original musical about finding and reclaiming your voice and using it for change. Commissioned by La Jolla Playhouse, The Family Album features a soulful power-pop score by MILCK and AG. Director Jess McLeod is known for work that blends emotional intimacy with expansive visual storytelling. This powerful, uplifting new musical is a journey through the healing power of connection. It will hit you right in the heart.
La Jolla Playhouse |
| Stage: Scapin This high-energy comedy follows Scapin, the world’s greatest con artist, as he manipulates, schemes, and straight-up lies his way through an impossible situation, always one step ahead and turning every problem into a hilarious new opportunity. When two young lovers find themselves up against stubborn, money-minded fathers, Scapin jumps into action with outrageous tricks, bold lies, and comic chaos at every turn. A fresh, modern take on Molière’s beloved farce is packed with mischief, surprises, and nonstop laughs.
North Coast Repertory Theatre |
| Stage: Cyrano Brilliant poet, dazzling swordsman, and hopeless romantic, Cyrano is as quick with a quip as he is with a blade. But behind his bluster lies shame about his physical appearance. When the beautiful, soulful Roxane—whom Cyrano has loved all his life—falls for a handsome young soldier, Cyrano’s insecurity prompts him to hide his true feelings and lend his rival the words to woo the woman they both adore. In this exuberant and irreverent adaptation of the classic Cyrano de Bergerac, comedy and pathos collide in a tale bursting with wit, romance, and panache. Cyrano is a celebration of love in all its forms—the bold, the bashful, and the heartbreakingly brave.
The Old Globe |
| Stage: Much Ado About Nothing Love, laughter, and mischief take center stage in one of the greatest romantic comedies ever written. Everyone can see that headstrong Beatrice and confirmed bachelor Benedick are perfect for each other—except Beatrice and Benedick! Their friends set out to bring them together, and soon elaborate schemes, false accusations, mistaken identities, and even a bumbling police force tangle in one of The Bard’s most beguiling theatrical delights. Celebrated Shakespeare director Barry Edelstein returns to the outdoor stage with this fast-paced, witty production full of colorful characters, brilliant wordplay, and genuine heart.
The Old Globe |
| 8:30 PM | Toro Nagashi Festival Toro Nagashi (floating lanterns) is a ceremony to honor those who have passed. The floating lanterns commemorate loved ones and wish them peace. Guests will be able to float their candle-lit lanterns (LED candles) in the lower garden stream during the evening ceremony on Friday, August 7th and Saturday, August 8th.
Japanese Friendship Garden & Museum |
| 9:00 PM | Comedy: Hans Kim Hans Kim is an innovative and groundbreaking stand-up comedy act known for his intelligent yet irreverent approach to his material. Drawing inspiration from his Korean background and broader pop culture, Hans Kim is capable of making audiences laugh in ways that few before him have been capable of.
American Comedy Co. |
Sunday, August 9
| 11:00 AM | House of Italy Lawn Program This event features Italian food favorites along with a musical show that will make you feel that you are on a visit to Italy!
International Cottages |
| 1:00 PM | Stage: The Family Album Singer-songwriter Mia Bing has been hustling for years and is on the cusp of breaking through in the music industry. Just as she receives the call that could change her career, she’s pulled back to her childhood home, where she’s once again the “disappointing” daughter of her Asian immigrant parents, still haunted by an unresolved secret. Mia must learn to use her voice to confront and heal from the past. In 2017, MILCK and AG’s “Quiet” became a viral sensation around the world as an anthem of the Women’s March. That same spirit inspired them and acclaimed playwright Sam Chanse to draw on each of their personal stories to create The Family Album, a humorous and poignant original musical about finding and reclaiming your voice and using it for change. Commissioned by La Jolla Playhouse, The Family Album features a soulful power-pop score by MILCK and AG. Director Jess McLeod is known for work that blends emotional intimacy with expansive visual storytelling. This powerful, uplifting new musical is a journey through the healing power of connection. It will hit you right in the heart.
La Jolla Playhouse |
| 2:00 PM | Stage: Cyrano Brilliant poet, dazzling swordsman, and hopeless romantic, Cyrano is as quick with a quip as he is with a blade. But behind his bluster lies shame about his physical appearance. When the beautiful, soulful Roxane—whom Cyrano has loved all his life—falls for a handsome young soldier, Cyrano’s insecurity prompts him to hide his true feelings and lend his rival the words to woo the woman they both adore. In this exuberant and irreverent adaptation of the classic Cyrano de Bergerac, comedy and pathos collide in a tale bursting with wit, romance, and panache. Cyrano is a celebration of love in all its forms—the bold, the bashful, and the heartbreakingly brave.
The Old Globe |
| Stage: Scapin This high-energy comedy follows Scapin, the world’s greatest con artist, as he manipulates, schemes, and straight-up lies his way through an impossible situation, always one step ahead and turning every problem into a hilarious new opportunity. When two young lovers find themselves up against stubborn, money-minded fathers, Scapin jumps into action with outrageous tricks, bold lies, and comic chaos at every turn. A fresh, modern take on Molière’s beloved farce is packed with mischief, surprises, and nonstop laughs.
North Coast Repertory Theatre |
| Stage: Les Misérables School Edition San Diego Junior Theatre’s production of Les Misérables brings Victor Hugo’s timeless story of hope, sacrifice, and resilience to the stage with a cast of more than 50 talented young performers. This beloved musical explores justice, mercy, sacrifice, and the possibility of change, all brought to life in a sweeping theatrical experience filled with heart, power, and unforgettable music.
Casa del Prado Theatre |
| 4:00 PM | Film: Only Yesterday It’s 1982, and Taeko (Daisy Ridley) is 27 years old, unmarried, and has lived her whole life in Tokyo. She decides to visit her relatives in the countryside, and as the train travels through the night, memories flood back of her younger years: the first immature stirrings of romance, the onset of puberty, and the frustrations of math and boys. At the station she is met by young farmer Toshio (Dev Patel), and the encounters with him begin to reconnect her to forgotten longings. In lyrical switches between the present and the past, Taeko contemplates the arc of her life, and wonders if she has been true to the dreams of her childhood self. From Academy Award®-nominated director Isao Takahata (The Tale of The Princess Kaguya) and general producer Hayao Miyazaki, Only Yesterday is a masterpiece of time and tone, rich with humor and stirring emotion, and beautifully animated by one of the world’s most revered animation studios. Fathom events do not qualify for Unlimited subscriptions.
Multiple Regal Theaters |
| 7:00 PM | Stage: The Family Album Singer-songwriter Mia Bing has been hustling for years and is on the cusp of breaking through in the music industry. Just as she receives the call that could change her career, she’s pulled back to her childhood home, where she’s once again the “disappointing” daughter of her Asian immigrant parents, still haunted by an unresolved secret. Mia must learn to use her voice to confront and heal from the past. In 2017, MILCK and AG’s “Quiet” became a viral sensation around the world as an anthem of the Women’s March. That same spirit inspired them and acclaimed playwright Sam Chanse to draw on each of their personal stories to create The Family Album, a humorous and poignant original musical about finding and reclaiming your voice and using it for change. Commissioned by La Jolla Playhouse, The Family Album features a soulful power-pop score by MILCK and AG. Director Jess McLeod is known for work that blends emotional intimacy with expansive visual storytelling. This powerful, uplifting new musical is a journey through the healing power of connection. It will hit you right in the heart.
La Jolla Playhouse |
| Dance: Siudy Garrido Flamenco Company Created by Latin Grammy–nominated choreographer Siudy Garrido and award-winning composer and guitarist José Luis de la Paz, Flamenco Íntimo draws from traditional flamenco forms while embracing a contemporary vision. Combining dance and live music, the work explores the rhythm, artistry, and emotional depth that have made flamenco one of the world’s most enduring art forms. Recognized as one of the leading voices shaping flamenco today, Garrido brings together an ensemble of dancers and musicians for an evening of movement, live music, and emotion. Flamenco Íntimo offers an opportunity to experience this tradition through the lens of an artist redefining its possibilities.
UCSD Epstein Amphitheater |
| Stage: Scapin This high-energy comedy follows Scapin, the world’s greatest con artist, as he manipulates, schemes, and straight-up lies his way through an impossible situation, always one step ahead and turning every problem into a hilarious new opportunity. When two young lovers find themselves up against stubborn, money-minded fathers, Scapin jumps into action with outrageous tricks, bold lies, and comic chaos at every turn. A fresh, modern take on Molière’s beloved farce is packed with mischief, surprises, and nonstop laughs.
North Coast Repertory Theatre |
| Stage: Cyrano Brilliant poet, dazzling swordsman, and hopeless romantic, Cyrano is as quick with a quip as he is with a blade. But behind his bluster lies shame about his physical appearance. When the beautiful, soulful Roxane—whom Cyrano has loved all his life—falls for a handsome young soldier, Cyrano’s insecurity prompts him to hide his true feelings and lend his rival the words to woo the woman they both adore. In this exuberant and irreverent adaptation of the classic Cyrano de Bergerac, comedy and pathos collide in a tale bursting with wit, romance, and panache. Cyrano is a celebration of love in all its forms—the bold, the bashful, and the heartbreakingly brave.
The Old Globe |
| 7:30 PM | Music: BINI Bini is a Filipino girl group formed in 2019 through ABS-CBN's televised idol training program Star Hunt Academy, where they spent three years in preparation for their debut. The group is composed of eight members: Aiah, Colet, Maloi, Gwen, Stacey, Mikha, Jhoanna, and Sheena.
San Diego Civic Theatre |
| 8:00 PM | Stage: Much Ado About Nothing Love, laughter, and mischief take center stage in one of the greatest romantic comedies ever written. Everyone can see that headstrong Beatrice and confirmed bachelor Benedick are perfect for each other—except Beatrice and Benedick! Their friends set out to bring them together, and soon elaborate schemes, false accusations, mistaken identities, and even a bumbling police force tangle in one of The Bard’s most beguiling theatrical delights. Celebrated Shakespeare director Barry Edelstein returns to the outdoor stage with this fast-paced, witty production full of colorful characters, brilliant wordplay, and genuine heart.
The Old Globe |
Monday, August 10
| 6:30 PM | Film: Tales from Earthsea From the legendary Studio Ghibli, creators of Spirited Away and Howl’s Moving Castle, and the director of From Up on Poppy Hill, comes an animated fantasy epic based on the classic book series by Ursula K. Le Guin As crops dwindle and dragons reappear, mankind stands on the verge of total chaos. Lord Archmage Sparrowhawk, a powerful wizard, and Arren, a troubled young prince, search for the force behind this mysterious imbalance that threatens to destroy the land of Earthsea, in a tale of redemption and self-discovery that will take your breath away. Featuring the voices of Timothy Dalton, Willem Dafoe, Cheech Marin, and Mariska Hargitay. Fathom events do not qualify for Unlimited subscriptions.
Multiple Regal Theaters |
Tuesday, August 11
| 11:00 AM | Exhibit: Summer Bamboo This exhibit features "Summer Bamboo," a collection of mixed-media artworks created by students in Mieko’s monthly art classes. To create these pieces, students used collage techniques on top of traditional Japanese washi paper to capture the feeling of a summer breeze.
Japanese Friendship Garden & Museum |
| 4:00 PM | Talk: The Weeb Economy We will discuss Noah’s recent book on Japan, which has three parts: "I Want the Japanese Future Back," "FDI Is the Missing Piece," and "Why Everyone Loves Japan." This will be a tour de force to assess the contradictions of Japan today, from economics to soft power, the allure of Japan’s big cities, and why stagnation is an opportunity at this moment.
Online |
| 6:30 PM | Film: Only Yesterday It’s 1982, and Taeko (Daisy Ridley) is 27 years old, unmarried, and has lived her whole life in Tokyo. She decides to visit her relatives in the countryside, and as the train travels through the night, memories flood back of her younger years: the first immature stirrings of romance, the onset of puberty, and the frustrations of math and boys. At the station she is met by young farmer Toshio (Dev Patel), and the encounters with him begin to reconnect her to forgotten longings. In lyrical switches between the present and the past, Taeko contemplates the arc of her life, and wonders if she has been true to the dreams of her childhood self. From Academy Award®-nominated director Isao Takahata (The Tale of The Princess Kaguya) and general producer Hayao Miyazaki, Only Yesterday is a masterpiece of time and tone, rich with humor and stirring emotion, and beautifully animated by one of the world’s most revered animation studios. Fathom events do not qualify for Unlimited subscriptions.
Multiple Regal Theaters |
| 7:00 PM | Music: Santana Santana is a Latin Grammy-winning American rock band formed in San Francisco in 1966. The band was created by Mexican-American songwriter, Carlos Santana. The band won six Grammy awards in one night, tying with Micheal Jackson.
North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre |
| Stage: Cyrano Brilliant poet, dazzling swordsman, and hopeless romantic, Cyrano is as quick with a quip as he is with a blade. But behind his bluster lies shame about his physical appearance. When the beautiful, soulful Roxane—whom Cyrano has loved all his life—falls for a handsome young soldier, Cyrano’s insecurity prompts him to hide his true feelings and lend his rival the words to woo the woman they both adore. In this exuberant and irreverent adaptation of the classic Cyrano de Bergerac, comedy and pathos collide in a tale bursting with wit, romance, and panache. Cyrano is a celebration of love in all its forms—the bold, the bashful, and the heartbreakingly brave.
The Old Globe |
| 7:30 PM | Stage: The Family Album Singer-songwriter Mia Bing has been hustling for years and is on the cusp of breaking through in the music industry. Just as she receives the call that could change her career, she’s pulled back to her childhood home, where she’s once again the “disappointing” daughter of her Asian immigrant parents, still haunted by an unresolved secret. Mia must learn to use her voice to confront and heal from the past. In 2017, MILCK and AG’s “Quiet” became a viral sensation around the world as an anthem of the Women’s March. That same spirit inspired them and acclaimed playwright Sam Chanse to draw on each of their personal stories to create The Family Album, a humorous and poignant original musical about finding and reclaiming your voice and using it for change. Commissioned by La Jolla Playhouse, The Family Album features a soulful power-pop score by MILCK and AG. Director Jess McLeod is known for work that blends emotional intimacy with expansive visual storytelling. This powerful, uplifting new musical is a journey through the healing power of connection. It will hit you right in the heart.
La Jolla Playhouse |
| 8:00 PM | Stage: Much Ado About Nothing Love, laughter, and mischief take center stage in one of the greatest romantic comedies ever written. Everyone can see that headstrong Beatrice and confirmed bachelor Benedick are perfect for each other—except Beatrice and Benedick! Their friends set out to bring them together, and soon elaborate schemes, false accusations, mistaken identities, and even a bumbling police force tangle in one of The Bard’s most beguiling theatrical delights. Celebrated Shakespeare director Barry Edelstein returns to the outdoor stage with this fast-paced, witty production full of colorful characters, brilliant wordplay, and genuine heart.
The Old Globe |
Wednesday, August 12
| 7:00 PM | Stage: Scapin This high-energy comedy follows Scapin, the world’s greatest con artist, as he manipulates, schemes, and straight-up lies his way through an impossible situation, always one step ahead and turning every problem into a hilarious new opportunity. When two young lovers find themselves up against stubborn, money-minded fathers, Scapin jumps into action with outrageous tricks, bold lies, and comic chaos at every turn. A fresh, modern take on Molière’s beloved farce is packed with mischief, surprises, and nonstop laughs.
North Coast Repertory Theatre |
| Music: Helado Negro & Reyna Tropical Helado Negro is stage name for Roberto Carlos Lange, a South Florida-born musician and multidisciplinary artist known for crafting emotionally rich, bilingual avant-pop. The son of Ecuadorian immigrants, Lange stitches together memory, identity, and atmosphere to create detailed dreamscapes, producing, engineering, and mixing his own music to build a sonic world that is entirely his own. Through his ever-expanding multidisciplinary vision, Helado Negro continues to push the boundaries of experimental pop. Reyna Tropical is the project of trailblazing Mexican-born, Texas-raised guitarist and singer Fabi Reyna. Her music is a contemporary celebration of rhythmic traditions of the tropical diaspora that create a sonic homeland where Black, indigenous and queer joy can thrive.
UCSD Epstein Family Ampitheater |
| Stage: Cyrano Brilliant poet, dazzling swordsman, and hopeless romantic, Cyrano is as quick with a quip as he is with a blade. But behind his bluster lies shame about his physical appearance. When the beautiful, soulful Roxane—whom Cyrano has loved all his life—falls for a handsome young soldier, Cyrano’s insecurity prompts him to hide his true feelings and lend his rival the words to woo the woman they both adore. In this exuberant and irreverent adaptation of the classic Cyrano de Bergerac, comedy and pathos collide in a tale bursting with wit, romance, and panache. Cyrano is a celebration of love in all its forms—the bold, the bashful, and the heartbreakingly brave.
The Old Globe |
| 7:30 PM | Stage: The Family Album Singer-songwriter Mia Bing has been hustling for years and is on the cusp of breaking through in the music industry. Just as she receives the call that could change her career, she’s pulled back to her childhood home, where she’s once again the “disappointing” daughter of her Asian immigrant parents, still haunted by an unresolved secret. Mia must learn to use her voice to confront and heal from the past. In 2017, MILCK and AG’s “Quiet” became a viral sensation around the world as an anthem of the Women’s March. That same spirit inspired them and acclaimed playwright Sam Chanse to draw on each of their personal stories to create The Family Album, a humorous and poignant original musical about finding and reclaiming your voice and using it for change. Commissioned by La Jolla Playhouse, The Family Album features a soulful power-pop score by MILCK and AG. Director Jess McLeod is known for work that blends emotional intimacy with expansive visual storytelling. This powerful, uplifting new musical is a journey through the healing power of connection. It will hit you right in the heart.
La Jolla Playhouse |
| 8:00 PM | Stage: Much Ado About Nothing Love, laughter, and mischief take center stage in one of the greatest romantic comedies ever written. Everyone can see that headstrong Beatrice and confirmed bachelor Benedick are perfect for each other—except Beatrice and Benedick! Their friends set out to bring them together, and soon elaborate schemes, false accusations, mistaken identities, and even a bumbling police force tangle in one of The Bard’s most beguiling theatrical delights. Celebrated Shakespeare director Barry Edelstein returns to the outdoor stage with this fast-paced, witty production full of colorful characters, brilliant wordplay, and genuine heart.
The Old Globe |
Thursday, August 13
| 7:00 PM | Stage: Scapin This high-energy comedy follows Scapin, the world’s greatest con artist, as he manipulates, schemes, and straight-up lies his way through an impossible situation, always one step ahead and turning every problem into a hilarious new opportunity. When two young lovers find themselves up against stubborn, money-minded fathers, Scapin jumps into action with outrageous tricks, bold lies, and comic chaos at every turn. A fresh, modern take on Molière’s beloved farce is packed with mischief, surprises, and nonstop laughs.
North Coast Repertory Theatre |
| Stage: Ni Mi Madre This riotous, Obie Award-winning one-person show follows an over-the-top Brazilian matriarch scrambling to raise her queer son within a confusing American culture. Infused and enlivened by the music of Gloria Estefan and Cher, the comedy delves into the secrets of an immigrant family and the complicated love between parent and child. It is a hilarious, sharp, and deeply human celebration of queer Latine survival and identity.
Diversionary Theatre |
| Stage: Cyrano Brilliant poet, dazzling swordsman, and hopeless romantic, Cyrano is as quick with a quip as he is with a blade. But behind his bluster lies shame about his physical appearance. When the beautiful, soulful Roxane—whom Cyrano has loved all his life—falls for a handsome young soldier, Cyrano’s insecurity prompts him to hide his true feelings and lend his rival the words to woo the woman they both adore. In this exuberant and irreverent adaptation of the classic Cyrano de Bergerac, comedy and pathos collide in a tale bursting with wit, romance, and panache. Cyrano is a celebration of love in all its forms—the bold, the bashful, and the heartbreakingly brave.
The Old Globe |
| 7:30 PM | Stage: The Family Album Singer-songwriter Mia Bing has been hustling for years and is on the cusp of breaking through in the music industry. Just as she receives the call that could change her career, she’s pulled back to her childhood home, where she’s once again the “disappointing” daughter of her Asian immigrant parents, still haunted by an unresolved secret. Mia must learn to use her voice to confront and heal from the past. In 2017, MILCK and AG’s “Quiet” became a viral sensation around the world as an anthem of the Women’s March. That same spirit inspired them and acclaimed playwright Sam Chanse to draw on each of their personal stories to create The Family Album, a humorous and poignant original musical about finding and reclaiming your voice and using it for change. Commissioned by La Jolla Playhouse, The Family Album features a soulful power-pop score by MILCK and AG. Director Jess McLeod is known for work that blends emotional intimacy with expansive visual storytelling. This powerful, uplifting new musical is a journey through the healing power of connection. It will hit you right in the heart.
La Jolla Playhouse |
| 8:00 PM | Stage: Much Ado About Nothing Love, laughter, and mischief take center stage in one of the greatest romantic comedies ever written. Everyone can see that headstrong Beatrice and confirmed bachelor Benedick are perfect for each other—except Beatrice and Benedick! Their friends set out to bring them together, and soon elaborate schemes, false accusations, mistaken identities, and even a bumbling police force tangle in one of The Bard’s most beguiling theatrical delights. Celebrated Shakespeare director Barry Edelstein returns to the outdoor stage with this fast-paced, witty production full of colorful characters, brilliant wordplay, and genuine heart.
The Old Globe |
Friday, August 14
| 6:30 PM | Food: Ravioli, Tortellini & Agnolotti Workshop Get ready to roll, fold, and shape your way through the most delicious hands-on adventure! In this fun and interactive cooking class, you’ll learn how to make silky-smooth pasta dough completely from scratch. Together, we’ll transform that fresh dough into three iconic Italian pastas: Ravioli – soft, pillowy pockets ready to burst with flavor Tortellini – charming little rings with a satisfying fold Agnolotti – elegant, delicate shapes straight from the heart of Piemonte Each pasta will be filled with rich, creamy ricotta cheese, then paired with a classic tomato ragù sauce that brings everything together in a harmony of fresh, comforting Italian flavors. By the end of the class, you’ll have mastered essential pasta-making techniques—and created a plateful of deliciousness you’ll be proud to share.
Rancho Bernardo |
| 7:00 PM | Stage: Ni Mi Madre This riotous, Obie Award-winning one-person show follows an over-the-top Brazilian matriarch scrambling to raise her queer son within a confusing American culture. Infused and enlivened by the music of Gloria Estefan and Cher, the comedy delves into the secrets of an immigrant family and the complicated love between parent and child. It is a hilarious, sharp, and deeply human celebration of queer Latine survival and identity.
Diversionary Theatre |
| Music: Bill Magee Blues Band Bill Magee is a San Diego blues legend and award-winning bandleader, voted Best Blues Band by the San Diego Music Association and Reader Magazine. A former bandmate of a young Jimi Hendrix in Jimmy James and the Flames, Magee’s career has taken him from the Apollo Theater to stages alongside icons like B.B. King, Muddy Waters, Otis Redding, and James Brown. His New York/Chicago-style blues is electrifying, soulful, and deeply rooted in the traditions of the greats. After stepping away from the road to raise his family, Magee returned to the stage in San Diego — and has been lighting up the local blues scene ever since. With decades of history, masterful guitar work, and a powerful connection to his audience, Bill Magee delivers the real deal. Don’t miss the chance to experience a true blues veteran live. Experience a true blues veteran live — where history, storytelling, and powerhouse musicianship come together in an unforgettable performance.
California Center for the Arts |
| Stage: Cyrano Brilliant poet, dazzling swordsman, and hopeless romantic, Cyrano is as quick with a quip as he is with a blade. But behind his bluster lies shame about his physical appearance. When the beautiful, soulful Roxane—whom Cyrano has loved all his life—falls for a handsome young soldier, Cyrano’s insecurity prompts him to hide his true feelings and lend his rival the words to woo the woman they both adore. In this exuberant and irreverent adaptation of the classic Cyrano de Bergerac, comedy and pathos collide in a tale bursting with wit, romance, and panache. Cyrano is a celebration of love in all its forms—the bold, the bashful, and the heartbreakingly brave.
The Old Globe |
| 7:30 PM | Stage: The Family Album Singer-songwriter Mia Bing has been hustling for years and is on the cusp of breaking through in the music industry. Just as she receives the call that could change her career, she’s pulled back to her childhood home, where she’s once again the “disappointing” daughter of her Asian immigrant parents, still haunted by an unresolved secret. Mia must learn to use her voice to confront and heal from the past. In 2017, MILCK and AG’s “Quiet” became a viral sensation around the world as an anthem of the Women’s March. That same spirit inspired them and acclaimed playwright Sam Chanse to draw on each of their personal stories to create The Family Album, a humorous and poignant original musical about finding and reclaiming your voice and using it for change. Commissioned by La Jolla Playhouse, The Family Album features a soulful power-pop score by MILCK and AG. Director Jess McLeod is known for work that blends emotional intimacy with expansive visual storytelling. This powerful, uplifting new musical is a journey through the healing power of connection. It will hit you right in the heart.
La Jolla Playhouse |
| Music: Qiensave ¿Qiensave? (Quien-Sa-Be) is a Cumbia Urbana group from Salinas California with roots stretching back to Michoacán, Mexico. ¿Qiensave? creates high energy dance music that has fortunately blessed the band with the opportunity to perform throughout Californian, Arizona, Mexico, Colombia, and Virtually. While ¿Qiensave? has existed as a musical entity since 2009. Within the last few years, the band has picked up steam through touring, releasing their album “Como Ver Te” in 2016 and “Mujer” in 2019.
Soda Bar |
| 8:00 PM | Stage: Scapin This high-energy comedy follows Scapin, the world’s greatest con artist, as he manipulates, schemes, and straight-up lies his way through an impossible situation, always one step ahead and turning every problem into a hilarious new opportunity. When two young lovers find themselves up against stubborn, money-minded fathers, Scapin jumps into action with outrageous tricks, bold lies, and comic chaos at every turn. A fresh, modern take on Molière’s beloved farce is packed with mischief, surprises, and nonstop laughs.
North Coast Repertory Theatre |
| Stage: Much Ado About Nothing Love, laughter, and mischief take center stage in one of the greatest romantic comedies ever written. Everyone can see that headstrong Beatrice and confirmed bachelor Benedick are perfect for each other—except Beatrice and Benedick! Their friends set out to bring them together, and soon elaborate schemes, false accusations, mistaken identities, and even a bumbling police force tangle in one of The Bard’s most beguiling theatrical delights. Celebrated Shakespeare director Barry Edelstein returns to the outdoor stage with this fast-paced, witty production full of colorful characters, brilliant wordplay, and genuine heart.
The Old Globe |
| 9:00 PM | Music: Los Morros del Norte Los Morros del Norte are a Mexican Norteño band. The band was founded by brothers Fermin, Javier, and Tomas Beltran, and their cousin Samuel Ayon, all originally from Tamazula Durango. They made their professional recording debut in 1993.
Blue Agave Nightclub |
Saturday, August 15
| 10:00 AM | Natural Indigo Dye & Shibori Techniques Workshop Come and explore the gorgeous natural blue of indigo in this hands-on natural dye workshop! Students will learn a range of shibori dye resist processes in this hands-on, creative workshop, including tegumo (spiderweb), ori nui (stitched), and itajime (clamped) shibori methods. We will be using a natural indigo vat to dye a bamboo scarf and better understand the process and symbiotic relationship with indigo dye and this traditional textile surface design. Students will acquire the basic techniques to continue their journey into creating beautiful, unique textiles.
San Diego Craft Collective |
| 11:00 AM | House of Panama Lawn Program Our annual Lawn Program is held every year on the 3rd Sunday of August. At this event, the House of Panama sells food and shares the history of Panama and Panama’s connection to Balboa Park. We also invite different Panamanian dance groups to entertain visitors for a full hour
International Cottages |
| 2:00 PM | Stage: The Family Album Singer-songwriter Mia Bing has been hustling for years and is on the cusp of breaking through in the music industry. Just as she receives the call that could change her career, she’s pulled back to her childhood home, where she’s once again the “disappointing” daughter of her Asian immigrant parents, still haunted by an unresolved secret. Mia must learn to use her voice to confront and heal from the past. In 2017, MILCK and AG’s “Quiet” became a viral sensation around the world as an anthem of the Women’s March. That same spirit inspired them and acclaimed playwright Sam Chanse to draw on each of their personal stories to create The Family Album, a humorous and poignant original musical about finding and reclaiming your voice and using it for change. Commissioned by La Jolla Playhouse, The Family Album features a soulful power-pop score by MILCK and AG. Director Jess McLeod is known for work that blends emotional intimacy with expansive visual storytelling. This powerful, uplifting new musical is a journey through the healing power of connection. It will hit you right in the heart.
La Jolla Playhouse |
| Stage: Scapin This high-energy comedy follows Scapin, the world’s greatest con artist, as he manipulates, schemes, and straight-up lies his way through an impossible situation, always one step ahead and turning every problem into a hilarious new opportunity. When two young lovers find themselves up against stubborn, money-minded fathers, Scapin jumps into action with outrageous tricks, bold lies, and comic chaos at every turn. A fresh, modern take on Molière’s beloved farce is packed with mischief, surprises, and nonstop laughs.
North Coast Repertory Theatre |
| Music: Luisa Corredor and Ignacio Arango Enjoy a free concert of Latin American music at the Ramona Library featuring Luisa Corredor and Ignacio Arango. Luisa Corredor, a singer and teacher native to San Diego, and Ignacio Arango, a guitarist and bassist from Cuba, combine their talents to present traditional and popular music from Cuba and beyond
Ramona Library |
| Stage: Cyrano Brilliant poet, dazzling swordsman, and hopeless romantic, Cyrano is as quick with a quip as he is with a blade. But behind his bluster lies shame about his physical appearance. When the beautiful, soulful Roxane—whom Cyrano has loved all his life—falls for a handsome young soldier, Cyrano’s insecurity prompts him to hide his true feelings and lend his rival the words to woo the woman they both adore. In this exuberant and irreverent adaptation of the classic Cyrano de Bergerac, comedy and pathos collide in a tale bursting with wit, romance, and panache. Cyrano is a celebration of love in all its forms—the bold, the bashful, and the heartbreakingly brave.
The Old Globe |
| 6:30 PM | Food: Flavors of Egypt Immerse yourself in the vibrant flavors and rich traditions of Northeast Africa at our 4th Annual Flavors of Egypt, an unforgettable evening celebrating culture, cuisine, and connection. This beloved event returns, continuing to honor the culinary artistry of our award-winning Chef Hany Ali and the heritage that inspires him. As the evening unfolds, be transported by the rhythms of traditional Egyptian music, complemented by mesmerizing belly dance performances that bring the spirit of the culture to life. Enhance your experience with the intricate beauty of henna art, a timeless expression of celebration and artistry. Join us for a night where flavor, music, and tradition come together in a truly immersive experience, one that continues to grow more memorable with each passing year.
Vienza at Europa Village |
| 7:00 PM | Stage: Ni Mi Madre This riotous, Obie Award-winning one-person show follows an over-the-top Brazilian matriarch scrambling to raise her queer son within a confusing American culture. Infused and enlivened by the music of Gloria Estefan and Cher, the comedy delves into the secrets of an immigrant family and the complicated love between parent and child. It is a hilarious, sharp, and deeply human celebration of queer Latine survival and identity.
Diversionary Theatre |
| 8:00 PM | Stage: The Family Album Singer-songwriter Mia Bing has been hustling for years and is on the cusp of breaking through in the music industry. Just as she receives the call that could change her career, she’s pulled back to her childhood home, where she’s once again the “disappointing” daughter of her Asian immigrant parents, still haunted by an unresolved secret. Mia must learn to use her voice to confront and heal from the past. In 2017, MILCK and AG’s “Quiet” became a viral sensation around the world as an anthem of the Women’s March. That same spirit inspired them and acclaimed playwright Sam Chanse to draw on each of their personal stories to create The Family Album, a humorous and poignant original musical about finding and reclaiming your voice and using it for change. Commissioned by La Jolla Playhouse, The Family Album features a soulful power-pop score by MILCK and AG. Director Jess McLeod is known for work that blends emotional intimacy with expansive visual storytelling. This powerful, uplifting new musical is a journey through the healing power of connection. It will hit you right in the heart.
La Jolla Playhouse |
| Stage: Scapin This high-energy comedy follows Scapin, the world’s greatest con artist, as he manipulates, schemes, and straight-up lies his way through an impossible situation, always one step ahead and turning every problem into a hilarious new opportunity. When two young lovers find themselves up against stubborn, money-minded fathers, Scapin jumps into action with outrageous tricks, bold lies, and comic chaos at every turn. A fresh, modern take on Molière’s beloved farce is packed with mischief, surprises, and nonstop laughs.
North Coast Repertory Theatre |
| Music: Jorge Medina Jorge Medina is a singer and songwriter best known for his two decades as the lead vocalist of the legendary Mexican grupero La Arrolladora Banda el Limón de René Camacho.
Cal Coast Credit Union Open Air Theatre |
| Stage: Cyrano Brilliant poet, dazzling swordsman, and hopeless romantic, Cyrano is as quick with a quip as he is with a blade. But behind his bluster lies shame about his physical appearance. When the beautiful, soulful Roxane—whom Cyrano has loved all his life—falls for a handsome young soldier, Cyrano’s insecurity prompts him to hide his true feelings and lend his rival the words to woo the woman they both adore. In this exuberant and irreverent adaptation of the classic Cyrano de Bergerac, comedy and pathos collide in a tale bursting with wit, romance, and panache. Cyrano is a celebration of love in all its forms—the bold, the bashful, and the heartbreakingly brave.
The Old Globe |
| Stage: Much Ado About Nothing Love, laughter, and mischief take center stage in one of the greatest romantic comedies ever written. Everyone can see that headstrong Beatrice and confirmed bachelor Benedick are perfect for each other—except Beatrice and Benedick! Their friends set out to bring them together, and soon elaborate schemes, false accusations, mistaken identities, and even a bumbling police force tangle in one of The Bard’s most beguiling theatrical delights. Celebrated Shakespeare director Barry Edelstein returns to the outdoor stage with this fast-paced, witty production full of colorful characters, brilliant wordplay, and genuine heart.
The Old Globe |
Sunday, August 16
| NOON | Film: The Treasure of the Sierra Madre Two down-on-their-luck Americans (Humphrey Bogart and Tim Holt) searching for work in 1920s Mexico convince an old prospector to help them mine for gold in the Sierra Madre Mountains. Bogart delivers one of his finest performances and John Huston directed his father Walter to an Oscar for best supporting actor. Huston also garnered his own awards for best director and best screenplay. SDSU professor and author of Tex[t]-Mex: Seductive Hallucinations of “Mexicans” in America, William Nericcio will be in person to introduce the film.
Digital Gym Cinema |
| 1:00 PM | Stage: The Family Album Singer-songwriter Mia Bing has been hustling for years and is on the cusp of breaking through in the music industry. Just as she receives the call that could change her career, she’s pulled back to her childhood home, where she’s once again the “disappointing” daughter of her Asian immigrant parents, still haunted by an unresolved secret. Mia must learn to use her voice to confront and heal from the past. In 2017, MILCK and AG’s “Quiet” became a viral sensation around the world as an anthem of the Women’s March. That same spirit inspired them and acclaimed playwright Sam Chanse to draw on each of their personal stories to create The Family Album, a humorous and poignant original musical about finding and reclaiming your voice and using it for change. Commissioned by La Jolla Playhouse, The Family Album features a soulful power-pop score by MILCK and AG. Director Jess McLeod is known for work that blends emotional intimacy with expansive visual storytelling. This powerful, uplifting new musical is a journey through the healing power of connection. It will hit you right in the heart.
La Jolla Playhouse |
| 2:00 PM | Stage: Scapin This high-energy comedy follows Scapin, the world’s greatest con artist, as he manipulates, schemes, and straight-up lies his way through an impossible situation, always one step ahead and turning every problem into a hilarious new opportunity. When two young lovers find themselves up against stubborn, money-minded fathers, Scapin jumps into action with outrageous tricks, bold lies, and comic chaos at every turn. A fresh, modern take on Molière’s beloved farce is packed with mischief, surprises, and nonstop laughs.
North Coast Repertory Theatre |
| Stage: Ni Mi Madre This riotous, Obie Award-winning one-person show follows an over-the-top Brazilian matriarch scrambling to raise her queer son within a confusing American culture. Infused and enlivened by the music of Gloria Estefan and Cher, the comedy delves into the secrets of an immigrant family and the complicated love between parent and child. It is a hilarious, sharp, and deeply human celebration of queer Latine survival and identity.
Diversionary Theatre |
| 7:00 PM | Stage: The Family Album Singer-songwriter Mia Bing has been hustling for years and is on the cusp of breaking through in the music industry. Just as she receives the call that could change her career, she’s pulled back to her childhood home, where she’s once again the “disappointing” daughter of her Asian immigrant parents, still haunted by an unresolved secret. Mia must learn to use her voice to confront and heal from the past. In 2017, MILCK and AG’s “Quiet” became a viral sensation around the world as an anthem of the Women’s March. That same spirit inspired them and acclaimed playwright Sam Chanse to draw on each of their personal stories to create The Family Album, a humorous and poignant original musical about finding and reclaiming your voice and using it for change. Commissioned by La Jolla Playhouse, The Family Album features a soulful power-pop score by MILCK and AG. Director Jess McLeod is known for work that blends emotional intimacy with expansive visual storytelling. This powerful, uplifting new musical is a journey through the healing power of connection. It will hit you right in the heart.
La Jolla Playhouse |
| Stage: Scapin This high-energy comedy follows Scapin, the world’s greatest con artist, as he manipulates, schemes, and straight-up lies his way through an impossible situation, always one step ahead and turning every problem into a hilarious new opportunity. When two young lovers find themselves up against stubborn, money-minded fathers, Scapin jumps into action with outrageous tricks, bold lies, and comic chaos at every turn. A fresh, modern take on Molière’s beloved farce is packed with mischief, surprises, and nonstop laughs.
North Coast Repertory Theatre |
| Stage: Cyrano Brilliant poet, dazzling swordsman, and hopeless romantic, Cyrano is as quick with a quip as he is with a blade. But behind his bluster lies shame about his physical appearance. When the beautiful, soulful Roxane—whom Cyrano has loved all his life—falls for a handsome young soldier, Cyrano’s insecurity prompts him to hide his true feelings and lend his rival the words to woo the woman they both adore. In this exuberant and irreverent adaptation of the classic Cyrano de Bergerac, comedy and pathos collide in a tale bursting with wit, romance, and panache. Cyrano is a celebration of love in all its forms—the bold, the bashful, and the heartbreakingly brave.
The Old Globe |
| 8:00 PM | Stage: Much Ado About Nothing Love, laughter, and mischief take center stage in one of the greatest romantic comedies ever written. Everyone can see that headstrong Beatrice and confirmed bachelor Benedick are perfect for each other—except Beatrice and Benedick! Their friends set out to bring them together, and soon elaborate schemes, false accusations, mistaken identities, and even a bumbling police force tangle in one of The Bard’s most beguiling theatrical delights. Celebrated Shakespeare director Barry Edelstein returns to the outdoor stage with this fast-paced, witty production full of colorful characters, brilliant wordplay, and genuine heart.
The Old Globe |
Monday, August 17
| 4:00 PM | Raksha Bandhan Bracelets During Raksha Bandhan, sisters tie bracelet around brothers wrists and in return they get gifts and protection from their brothers. Join us as we celebrate this event with crafts, coloring pages, and music.
Carmel Valley Library |
Tuesday, August 18
| 8:00 PM | Stage: Much Ado About Nothing Love, laughter, and mischief take center stage in one of the greatest romantic comedies ever written. Everyone can see that headstrong Beatrice and confirmed bachelor Benedick are perfect for each other—except Beatrice and Benedick! Their friends set out to bring them together, and soon elaborate schemes, false accusations, mistaken identities, and even a bumbling police force tangle in one of The Bard’s most beguiling theatrical delights. Celebrated Shakespeare director Barry Edelstein returns to the outdoor stage with this fast-paced, witty production full of colorful characters, brilliant wordplay, and genuine heart.
The Old Globe |
Thursday, August 20
| 3:00 PM | Raksha Bandan Bracelets Let's celebrate the bonds of love between brothers and sisters! "Raksha Bandan" means "bond of love and protection". This festival is also known as "Rakhi". Please join us and create a Rakhi (bracelette plus decorate Rakhi Thalis/plates,) and a greeting card, as well as listen to music and have snacks. Everyone and all ages are welcome!
Mira Mesa Library |
| 5:00 PM | Food: Hokkaido Join Chefs Tim Kolanko, Wesley Remington, and Tony Coito for a multi-course meal inspired by the flavors of Hokkaido, Japan, for our August ARTIFACT at Night.
Mingei International Museum |
| 7:00 PM | Stage: Ni Mi Madre This riotous, Obie Award-winning one-person show follows an over-the-top Brazilian matriarch scrambling to raise her queer son within a confusing American culture. Infused and enlivened by the music of Gloria Estefan and Cher, the comedy delves into the secrets of an immigrant family and the complicated love between parent and child. It is a hilarious, sharp, and deeply human celebration of queer Latine survival and identity.
Diversionary Theatre |
| 8:00 PM | Stage: Much Ado About Nothing Love, laughter, and mischief take center stage in one of the greatest romantic comedies ever written. Everyone can see that headstrong Beatrice and confirmed bachelor Benedick are perfect for each other—except Beatrice and Benedick! Their friends set out to bring them together, and soon elaborate schemes, false accusations, mistaken identities, and even a bumbling police force tangle in one of The Bard’s most beguiling theatrical delights. Celebrated Shakespeare director Barry Edelstein returns to the outdoor stage with this fast-paced, witty production full of colorful characters, brilliant wordplay, and genuine heart.
The Old Globe |
Friday, August 21
| 10:00 AM | San Diego International Kids' Film Festival The San Diego International Kids' Film Festival in Carlsbad, California, celebrates global storytelling by presenting culturally diverse films created for children and youth. The festival encourages young filmmakers and highlights positive media and inspiring role models. Attendees can enjoy a unique multicultural experience while discovering new perspectives through film. This event is dedicated to blending entertainment with education, making it a must-visit for families and film enthusiasts alike.
Carlsbad Senior Center |
| 7:00 PM | Stage: Ni Mi Madre This riotous, Obie Award-winning one-person show follows an over-the-top Brazilian matriarch scrambling to raise her queer son within a confusing American culture. Infused and enlivened by the music of Gloria Estefan and Cher, the comedy delves into the secrets of an immigrant family and the complicated love between parent and child. It is a hilarious, sharp, and deeply human celebration of queer Latine survival and identity.
Diversionary Theatre |
| 8:00 PM | Comedy: JB Smoove Born in Plymouth, North Carolina, and raised in Mount Vernon, New York, J.B. Smoove is an Emmy Award-winning actor, comedian, writer, and producer whose unique brand of comedy has made him one of the most recognizable comedic performers working today. Best known for his breakout role as Leon Black on HBO’s Curb Your Enthusiasm, Smoove joined the series in its sixth season and remained a fan favorite through the show’s twelfth and final season. His performance earned an NAACP Image Award nomination and a Screen Actors Guild Award nomination.
The Sound |
| Stage: Much Ado About Nothing Love, laughter, and mischief take center stage in one of the greatest romantic comedies ever written. Everyone can see that headstrong Beatrice and confirmed bachelor Benedick are perfect for each other—except Beatrice and Benedick! Their friends set out to bring them together, and soon elaborate schemes, false accusations, mistaken identities, and even a bumbling police force tangle in one of The Bard’s most beguiling theatrical delights. Celebrated Shakespeare director Barry Edelstein returns to the outdoor stage with this fast-paced, witty production full of colorful characters, brilliant wordplay, and genuine heart.
The Old Globe |
Saturday, August 22
| 10:00 AM | San Diego International Kids' Film Festival The San Diego International Kids' Film Festival in Carlsbad, California, celebrates global storytelling by presenting culturally diverse films created for children and youth. The festival encourages young filmmakers and highlights positive media and inspiring role models. Attendees can enjoy a unique multicultural experience while discovering new perspectives through film. This event is dedicated to blending entertainment with education, making it a must-visit for families and film enthusiasts alike.
Carlsbad Senior Center |
| Talk: Peranakan Join us for this month's The Chinese American Experience & Beyond lecture titled "Peranakan - Childhood Lessons from Family, Culture, and Love." The lecture is free and held on Zoom!
Online |
| African Diaspora Carnaval Join us for an exciting carnaval filled with vibrant culture, music, and a thrilling soccer and parade of cultural attire. Whether you’re here to cheer, play, or just soak up the good vibes, it’s the perfect way to connect with the community and celebrate the African diaspora. Don’t miss out on the fun and great company!
S&S Friendly Ranch |
| 11:00 AM | Weaving Workshop Create your own pine needle and juncus reed medallion. Participants will be taught how to identify and prepare the crafting material as well as how to bring those items together using the coil weaving method, a traditional Kumeyaay basketry technique. This method is one of the cornerstones of Kumeyaay culture and craftsmanship, serving as the foundation for storage baskets, food-processing trays, baby cradles, and many other woven items used in daily traditional life.
San Diego Archaeological Center |
| NOON | House of Chamorros Lawn Program The warmth, flavors, music, and traditions of the Mariana Islands are returning to the heart of San Diego as the House of Chamorros presents the 2026 Håfa Adai Festival on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at Balboa Park. From 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., the International Lawn Stage will come alive with a vibrant celebration of CHamoru heritage, bringing families, friends, cultural practitioners, and community members together for an afternoon of food, entertainment, education, and connection. The annual Håfa Adai Festival is one of the House of Chamorros’ signature events, created to celebrate and preserve the traditional culture, dance, music, crafts, and cuisine of the Mariana Islands.
International Cottages |
| 1:00 PM | Taiwan Festival TAP-SD Taiwan Festival is a celebration of culture and community, with a mission to showcase community presence, ignite pride and networks, and showcase Taiwanese culture. Our inaugural festival in 2024 celebrated our sister city of Taichung and attracted 800+ attendees of all ages and different backgrounds to celebrate Taiwanese culture through fun games, tasty food and cultural activities. In 2025, our "Beyond Boba" festival expanded to 1500+ attendees and showcased the high quality items and creations by Taiwanese and Taiwanese American companies. TAP-SD’s 3rd annual Taiwan Festival will be on August 22, 2026 from 1-5pm at NTC Park (Liberty Station)! With over 15 years in San Diego, TAP-SD is grateful for all the support you have shown us and we are looking forward to putting this festival together again.
NTC Park Liberty Station |
| 2:00 PM | Kumiko Woodworking Workshop Kumiko is an ancient Japanese woodworking technique of assembling individual pieces of wood, without the use of nails, into geometric patterns. Kumiko has been used in constructing shoji screens, latticework, and other decorative elements in traditional Japanese architecture. In this workshop, Instructor Michael Olin guides students as they learn the basics of kumiko, including the use of hand tools to cut the pieces and assemble the frame. Each student will work on a small project to finish and take home.
San Diego Craft Collective |
| 7:00 PM | Stage: Ni Mi Madre This riotous, Obie Award-winning one-person show follows an over-the-top Brazilian matriarch scrambling to raise her queer son within a confusing American culture. Infused and enlivened by the music of Gloria Estefan and Cher, the comedy delves into the secrets of an immigrant family and the complicated love between parent and child. It is a hilarious, sharp, and deeply human celebration of queer Latine survival and identity.
Diversionary Theatre |
| 8:00 PM | Music: Dezarie Celebrate the enduring legacy of Marcus Garvey, a visionary Pan-African leader, educator, and champion of Black self-determination during an unforgettable evening of conscious roots reggae at WorldBeat Cultural Center. This year’s celebration features internationally acclaimed reggae artist Dezarie, whose powerful voice and uplifting lyrics have inspired audiences around the world for more than two decades. Hailing from St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands, Dezarie is celebrated for her spiritually grounded music, messages of justice, African consciousness, self-love, and cultural pride. With beloved songs such as Gracious Mama Africa, Love in Your Meditation, and Strengthen Your Mind, she has become one of the most respected female voices in modern roots reggae.
WorldBeat Center |
| Stage: Much Ado About Nothing Love, laughter, and mischief take center stage in one of the greatest romantic comedies ever written. Everyone can see that headstrong Beatrice and confirmed bachelor Benedick are perfect for each other—except Beatrice and Benedick! Their friends set out to bring them together, and soon elaborate schemes, false accusations, mistaken identities, and even a bumbling police force tangle in one of The Bard’s most beguiling theatrical delights. Celebrated Shakespeare director Barry Edelstein returns to the outdoor stage with this fast-paced, witty production full of colorful characters, brilliant wordplay, and genuine heart.
The Old Globe |
Sunday, August 23
| 10:00 AM | San Diego International Kids' Film Festival The San Diego International Kids' Film Festival in Carlsbad, California, celebrates global storytelling by presenting culturally diverse films created for children and youth. The festival encourages young filmmakers and highlights positive media and inspiring role models. Attendees can enjoy a unique multicultural experience while discovering new perspectives through film. This event is dedicated to blending entertainment with education, making it a must-visit for families and film enthusiasts alike.
Carlsbad Senior Center |
| NOON | House of Hungary Lawn Program Traditional Hungarian cuisine, book fair, info tent and kid’s activities, cultural performances on stage.
International Cottages |
| 2:00 PM | Stage: Ni Mi Madre This riotous, Obie Award-winning one-person show follows an over-the-top Brazilian matriarch scrambling to raise her queer son within a confusing American culture. Infused and enlivened by the music of Gloria Estefan and Cher, the comedy delves into the secrets of an immigrant family and the complicated love between parent and child. It is a hilarious, sharp, and deeply human celebration of queer Latine survival and identity.
Diversionary Theatre |
| 3:30 PM | Fiesta at the Chapel Join us for Fiesta at the Chapel! Not just a show. A gathering. Experience live music and dance performances featuring Steve Baker, Rebekah Brown, Lilian Ibarra Pantoja, Jean Isaacs, George Willis and Yoneme Grupo Folklorico; honor shared histories through an interactive Altar of Memories and explore a striking 3D industrial art exhibit celebrating resilience and unity, inspired by the spirit of service and community by Joe Pisano. Savor global flavors and drinks that showcase the unique San Diego-Tijuana border identity. This Fiesta bridges arts with the community.
CHAPEL at Liberty Station |
| 8:00 PM | Music: Omar Courtz Joshua Omar Medina Cortés, known professionally as Omar Courtz, or Ousi is a Puerto Rican singer and songwriter.
Viejas Arena |
| Music: WITCH A pioneering Zambian psychedelic act, W.I.T.C.H. (the name is an acronym, standing for We Intend to Cause Havoc) were one of the defining acts of Zamrock, a fusion of Western rock and rhythm & blues with traditional African sounds. They were among Zambia's most popular and influential bands in the 1970s as a wave of psychedelic and hard rock gained an audience in Africa. A landlocked nation in the South of Africa, Zambia was formerly Northern Rhodesia until gaining its independence in 1964, and as Zambia established its own national identity, local musicians began embracing the progressive influences of artists such as the Beatles, the Rolling Stones, and Jimi Hendrix, as well as the forward-thinking soul and funk sounds of James Brown.
Belly Up |
Monday, August 24
| 11:30 AM | Exhibit: Becoming Heirlooms Becoming Heirlooms examines the extrafunctional power of craft and art objects, not merely as artifacts, but as tools for gathering, witnessing, and remembrance. Expanding the notion of “family” beyond bloodline or inheritance, the exhibition embraces broader forms of collectivity—chosen families, cultural lineages, ideological kinships, and experiences—that serve as touchstones for our shared existence. At its core, Becoming Heirlooms considers the moment when a crafted object transcends authorship and utility to become a site of collective feeling—when an artist’s intention resonates beyond the individual viewer and ignites a shared emotional consciousness. These works become gathering points for empathy, reflection, and recognition, binding communities through the realities of the world they inhabit together.
Central Library |
Tuesday, August 25
| 7:30 PM | Stage: Much Ado About Nothing Love, laughter, and mischief take center stage in one of the greatest romantic comedies ever written. Everyone can see that headstrong Beatrice and confirmed bachelor Benedick are perfect for each other—except Beatrice and Benedick! Their friends set out to bring them together, and soon elaborate schemes, false accusations, mistaken identities, and even a bumbling police force tangle in one of The Bard’s most beguiling theatrical delights. Celebrated Shakespeare director Barry Edelstein returns to the outdoor stage with this fast-paced, witty production full of colorful characters, brilliant wordplay, and genuine heart.
The Old Globe Theatre |
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Book of the Month
The Silk Roads, A New History of the World
Recipe of the Month
Music of the Month
Eryamon' Koytnev