From the smell of barbecue to the sights and sounds of a firework display, there’s a lot to get excited about this Memorial Day. The holiday falls on May 29 and San Diego is offering a variety of ways to honor the military and its veterans. Whether you’re looking for a service to commemorate your loved one or a lighthearted cap to your week, we’ve got you covered with activities hosted throughout San Diego this Memorial Day weekend.
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Website/ 10990 N Woodside Ave 92071
Head to the Santee Drive-In Theater on May 29, starting at 6:30 a.m., and join the San Diego Association of Car Clubs in exploring the cars of the day. Whether you’re in the market for a new ostentatious car, looking to sell, or simply love cars, the event is sure to be a vehicle-lover’s dream.
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Website/ 1700 Cabrillo Memorial Dr 92106
Celebrate the military members who gave their lives to serve our country on May 29 with Fort Rosecrans. The virtual service will be live streamed starting at 10 a.m. on its website. This fort is a registered California historical landmark, so if the weather and your health allow, explore the site a bit and learn about its storied past.
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Website/ 8535 Paradise Valley Rd 91977
From May 25 to 28, the 31st annual Kuumba Festival returns to the fourth district community of Encanto for a celebration of Black youth, family, community, arts and culture and more. The weekend will feature dancing, soirees, keynote speakers, live music, food and more. Tickets
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Website/ 8715 Villa La Jolla Drive 92037
Enjoy a scenic bike ride through Rose Canyon and up Soledad Mountain to view Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial on May 29 at 8:30 a.m. Then, ride along the coast until you reach Point Loma. The 40-mile bike ride will be led by experienced San Diego Bicycle Club members.
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Website/ 6905 S La Jolla Scenic Drive 92037
Head to Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial on May 29 at 11 a.m. to honor Navy Aviation Radioman 3rd Class Walter "Uncle Bert Mintus" and other veterans. Mintus served during World War II and was on a bombing mission when his aircraft crashed. Guest speakers include Vice Admiral Kenneth Whitesell, a Naval Air Forces Commander, and Dr. Pat Scannon, who founded Project Recover.
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Website/ 3812 29th St 92104
Explore the shops and community of North Park with this special street festival on May 27 and 28. There will be live performances throughout both days and discounts at the majority of shops lining 30th Street.
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Website/ Old Town San Diego
Drink your way around San Diego with this fun-filled, comprehensive tequila tour while also learning a bit about the area. The tour starts in Old Town San Diego, travels through key tequila establishments, and ends with guests being able to craft their own tequila draft at the iconic El Agave tequila museum, bar and restaurants.
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Website/ Riverview Parkway 92071
Starting 10 a.m. on May 27, spend a day filled with food, entertainment and community. The Santee Street Fair is a free event with plenty of shopping, eating and more. There is also a pancake breakfast that will benefit local Boy Scouts for early birds; it will be served 7 to 11 a.m.
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Website/ 170 Eucalyptus Ave. 92084
Vista was once hailed as the “Strawberry Capital of the World” and now throws an annual festival celebrating the fruit. The family-friendly festival will be held on May 28 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. with a full day’s worth of activities. There will be a 5K, kids’ runs, live entertainment, fabulous food and beverage vendors, and most importantly lots of strawberries!
From festivals to memorial services, there is plenty to do in San Diego for Memorial Day Weekend.
See also: The Newest Art Exhibits in San Diego
Photography by: MALERAPRESO/ISTOCK
