11 affordable summer events in San Diego

Save all summer long with low and no-cost activities.

There's so much to love about San Diego, and there's no shortage of affordable summer events and activities to enjoy. If you're looking for ways to save, check out these budget-friendly events and unique experiences in our incredible county.

1

Come Play Outside

The San Diego Parks Foundation created Come Play Outside to help families spend time outdoors safely during the COVID-19 pandemic. Explore low and no-cost programs like nature camp, deep sea fishing and swimming lessons for our community.

2

Coronado Summer Concert Series

Don't miss the Coronado Summer Concert Series in Spreckels Park. Enjoy 17 concerts from July through September ranging from a '70s cover band to a swing band.

3

Discover & Go

Did you know the San Diego Public Library gives away free family day passes to museums and attractions? To browse available passes, all you need is a library card.

4

Free yoga (and more) at San Diego public libraries

Unwind at a no-cost yoga class by visiting a library near you. Yoga isn't the only free activity. You'll also find film screenings, concerts, clubs and classes in their schedule of events.

5

Historic walking tours

Stay active and be a tourist in your own town by joining a walking tour. You'll learn about San Diego's history while visiting unique locations. The Balboa Park women's history tour, Gaslamp walking tours and Old Town walking tour are great places to start.

6

Parks After Dark

Bring the whole family to Parks After Dark from June 5 to August 1 for an evening of free activities. From 5-8 pm, you'll find games, community resources and live music for all ages.

7

Resident free days in Balboa Park

So many museums, so little time! City and County of San Diego residents get free admission to many museums in Balboa Park on select Tuesdays and Thursdays. See your options and don't forget to bring a photo ID.

Night owls, Nat at Night is for you. The Natural History Museum stays open until 11 pm and has half-price admission after 5 pm.

8

Summer Sera

Listen to live music, shop and enter your dog into a costume contest at the all-ages Summer Sera at the Little Italy Mercato. Join in from 4-8 pm on Wednesday, July 1.

9

Summer Movies in the Park

Watch a free movie under the stars at a nearby park. Bring blankets, chairs and snack for an unforgettable evening. Check out the schedule to find your favorite blockbuster. Movies start 15 minutes after sunset, so arrive early to get set up.

10

TGIF Concerts in the Parks

The City of Carlsbad's TGIF Concerts in the Parks combines music and art at free concerts all summer. Concerts will be held at different Carlsbad parks from 4-8 pm.

11

Twilight in the Park

From June through August, head to the Twilight in the Park concerts at Balboa Park for a summer of live music. Listen to everything from a Beatles cover band to the San Diego Jazz Orchestra at the Spreckels Organ Pavilion from 6:30-7:30 pm.

Save more this summer and feel your best

Whether you're enjoying these events with friends, family or going solo, there's something for everyone.

And if you need a break from the heat, stop by one of the many Cool Zones across the county. They're free, air-conditioned places like libraries and community centers that are open to the public.

Support your health this summer with our no-cost Best Health® wellness program. As a Sharp Health Plan member, you can join fun wellness challenges, get no-cost health coaching and much more. Explore the program's tools to help you meet your wellness goals and create an account to find everything in one place.

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