Pacific Standard Time in San Diego
James Turrell, Stuck Red and Stuck Blue, 1970, construction materials and fluorescent lights, overall dimensions: 33 x 40 x 33 in., Collection Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego, Museum Purchase, Elizabeth W. Russell Foundation Funds.
Have the time to take in some amazing Southern California post World War II art in San Diego?
Pacific Standard Time is a highly ambitious and unprecedented collaboration of over 60 cultural institutions across Southern California coming together to celebrate the birth of the Southern California art scene from 1945 to 1980. The art scene was so big during that era that the exhibitions had to be spread over 60 cultural institutions. That’s a lot of art!
It turns out that San Diego was a hotbed of artistic talent during this time. San Diego’s Museum of Contemporary Art is actually one of the oldest contemporary art museums in California and the U.S. – it has been in existence since 1941. San Diego’s art scene has been contemporary for more than 70 years – not too shabby!
We are so pleased that two San Diego museums will be participating in this mostly Los Angeles affair. The San Diego museums are: Mingei International Museum and the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego (Downtown San Diego and La Jolla).
As of press time, we were able to take a preview of the exhibitions at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Downtown and La Jolla. The art collection and the quality of the installation is truly phenomenal. We were impressed with the artists’ ability to play with light, media, depth, and perception. In a nutshell, it is an experience that visitors and residents should take in and experience for themselves. A big thumb’s up!
On that note, we hope that folks from Los Angeles take time to come to San Diego to visit our San Diego-based exhibitions and visa versa. Los Angelenos can take the train to downtown San Diego, exit the historic Santa De Depot, make a left and go right into the Museum of Contemporary Art, San Diego. The museum is located conveniently adjacent to the train terminal. Want to make it an overnight stay but are concerned you don’t have wheels to get around? Fear not, there is plenty to do in the downtown area without a car. Here is one our articles about getting around San Diego without a car.
If you live in San Diego and want to go to LA to view the various exhibitions in downtown Los Angeles, we suggest that you let Amtrak do the driving for you. Take the Surfliner to LA’s Union Station. Union Station is your final destination and a good number of the museums that are participating in Pacific Standard Time are located in downtown LA. It’s a great way to go!
PACIFIC STANDARD TIME MUSEUMS IN SAN DIEGO
San Diego Craft Revolution: From Post-War Modern to California Design
Oct 16, 2011 – Apr 15, 2012
Mingei International Museum
In Balboa Park, the Mingei’s exhibition related to Pacific Standard Time opened on October 16, 2011 and it is chock-full of objects made by artists living in San Diego at the time of their creation. The art on display, much like most of the items at the Mingei, is for the most part, utilitarian. From wood desks to lamps to neck ties to plates and even front doors, San Diegans were creating beautiful pieces that were ahead of their time. A number of these artists were professors at local universities and community colleges inspiring students to create their own art and make a living doing it.
What we liked most about this exhibition was that this art was bought by patrons who helped support the continued work by these artists. Without a strong customer base, San Diego’s local art scene from the 1960s-1970s would not have grown and expanded. Another interesting part of the local art scene was that a number of the artists were married couples and that most of the artists would socialize together. They encouraged each other to keep experimenting and to keep creating art. This camaraderie reminded us of the current relationship among San Diego’s brewing community that fosters growth and collaboration.
The Mingei’s exhibition features over 60 artist-craftsmen including Toza and Ruth Radakovich, Rhoda Lopez, Jack Hopkins, Arline Fisch, Ellamarie and Jackson Woolley, Larry Hunter, Kay Whitcomb and James Hubbell. The Mingei has put up a list of all the artists on their website – it is an impressive list. They also have an Events Page.
Phenomenal: California Light, Space, Surface
Sep 25, 2011–Jan 22, 2012
Museum of Contemporary Art – Downtown San Diego and La Jolla
The Museum of Contemporary Art’s exhibition crosses both of its museums and will feature the works of 13 artists whose innovative use of industrial materials helped define an era of unique art making in Southern California during the 1960s and 1970s. Downtown’s exhibitions tend to be larger installations than the exhibition in La Jolla so be sure to visit both museums if you want to experience the full exhibition of contemporary art.
When in La Jolla, be sure to stand underneath Spencer Finch’s light-based site-specific installation called Rome (Pantheon, Noon, June 14, 2011). There is a large white dot that marks the spot where the light mimics the light that the artist experienced when was in Rome on June 14, 2011.
Another experience at the La Jolla museum is to go through Bruce Nauman’s site-specific Green Light Corridor heading toward the ocean. We’re not going to tell you what happens but, rest assured, it is worth the journey.
We encourage fans of the arts to go to both museums to take in San Diego’s segment of Pacific Standard Time. The cost of admission is worth it!
If you have any comments that you would like to share with us and the rest of the universe, please feel free to provide relevant comments below.
Would you like our latest edition to land in your inbox? All you need to do is subscribe. To subscribe to the blog, look for the SUBSCRIBE button just below the photo on the upper right-hand corner. If you want to find out about things to do in San Diego, go to San Diego Travel Tips.com. We can be reached at: sdtips @ sandiegotraveltips.com For even more information, follow us on Twitter!
San Diego Oktoberfest 2011
Here in San Diego, and probably in towns and cities across America, when we think of Oktoberfest we tend to think of big German beer-drinking festivals accented with German music, food, and the typical festival booths. This year, much like every other year,we expect thousands of folks to show up to the various Oktoberfest celebrations in San Diego and be German for a day or two.
We appreciate this fall tradition and can attest to the fun and frivolity that come with most of the Oktoberfests in San Diego. Of course, the real deal Oktoberfest started over 200 years ago in Germany. It is now recognized as the “Largest Volksfest (People’s Fair) in the World” – Wikipedia.
Here’s how San Diego will celebrate Oktoberfest in 2011:
(Courtesy Photo) Oktoberfest San Diego
LA MESA OKTOBERFEST 2011 – September 30 – October 2
Many San Diegans think that the La Mesa Oktoberfest is THE only game in town because it brings people from all over the region via car, bus, and trolley. It doesn’t hurt that the City of La Mesa rolls out the barrels in order to spur tourism. Best of all, admission is free!
Friday, September 30th – 11:00 a.m. to 11: 00 p.m.
Saturday, October 1st – 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Sunday, October 2nd – Noon to 5:00 p.m.
Location: La Mesa Boulevard, Downtown La Mesa
*Please consider taking the San Diego Trolley. You can plan your trip here.
More information for La Mesa Oktoberfest
EL CAJON OKTOBERFEST 2011 – September 30 – October 2 & October 7-9
The German American Society of El Cajon always flies in a REAL oompah-pah band from Germany for both weekends of Oktoberfest. Some swear that El Cajon’s Oktoberfest is the most authentic of all the Oktoberfests in San Diego. Best of all, you have two weekends to take it all in. While small in area, they pack a lot of food, beer, and entertainment into their big party. Street parking is available if the parking lot is full.
TWO WEEKENDS: September 30th – October 2nd, & October 7th – 9th, 2011
Friday, September 30th – 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Saturday, October 1st – Noon to 10:00 p.m.
Sunday, October 2nd – Noon to 9:00 p.m.
Friday, October 7th – 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Saturday, October 8th – Noon to 10:00 p.m.
Sunday, October 9th – Noon to 9:00 p.m.
Admission: $5 for adults 21 and up. Free for military with ID.
Location: 1017 S Mollison Avenue, El Cajon
Directions: From San Diego take I-8 East, turn right on So. Mollison Ave., drive 1 ½ miles to clubhouse on left.
More information for Oktoberfest in El Cajon
CARLSBAD OKTOBERFEST 2011 – October 1
The City of Carlsbad’s Oktoberfest is also very popular with the locals. This seaside city’s annual Oktoberfest celebration features live music, traditional German food and games at Holiday Park.
The event, which goes from 12:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., is FREE but donations are welcome.
Location: Map
Location: Holiday Park is located between Tamarack Avenue and Carlsbad Village Drive off the I-5 Freeway
OCEAN BEACH OKTOBERFEST 2011 – October 7-8
No one can dispute that Ocean Beach does everything differently. If it isn’t the festival you’d enjoy, go out and watch the people. There’s always entertainment in Ocean Beach. They’ll have two stages with live music and the World Famous Sausage Toss.
October 7th – 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
October 8th – 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Location: Newport Avenue at the beach
More information for Ocean Beach Oktoberfest)
TEMECULA OKTOBERFEST 2011 October 8
The 4th Annual Oktoberfest Celebration comes to Temecula courtesy of the Mount Palomar Winery featuring yep, a German band, German music, food, beer, and fun.
October 8 & 9 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Location: 33820 Rancho California Road, Temecula
More contact information on Mt. Palomar Winery’s Oktoberfest
JULIAN OKTOBERFEST 2011 – OCTOBER 8 & 9
A favorite autumn ritual of San Diegans is to head for the hills of Julian to go take in a scenic drive and have some apple pie. Here’s another reason to go east to Julian – their Oktoberfest! If you’ve been itching to take a day trip and take advantage of some lovely fall weather then, by all means, please head out to this lovely mountain town.
October 8 & 9 – 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Location: Rabobank Parking Lot, 2033 Main Street, Julian
OLIVENHAIN OKTOBERFEST 2011 OCTOBER 9
Local breweries including Stone with live German music and traditional grub. Fun is free. Food $12-20 Beer will cost you, too.
October 9, 2011 – 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Location: Olivenhain Meeting Hall at 432 Rancho Santa Fe Road in Encinitas.
NORTH PARK OKTOBERFEST 2011 October 22
North Park enters the Oktoberfest festivities this year with their festival scheduled for 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. on October 22nd. The whole German scene will be held in the parking lot behind the Birch North Park Theatre. Be on the look out for the traditional stuff: German food, beer, music and the “Chicken Dance.”
Location: 2891 University Avenue
LOOKING FOR THE ENCINITAS OKTOBERFEST & THE RAMONA OKTOBERFEST?
We are sorry to report that this year, Encinitas and Ramona will not be having their Oktoberfest celebrations.
PROST!
If you have any comments that you would like to share with us and the rest of the universe, please feel free to provide relevant comments below.
Would you like our latest edition to land in your inbox? All you need to do is subscribe. To subscribe to the blog, look for the SUBSCRIBE button just below the photo on the upper right-hand corner. If you want to find out about things to do in San Diego, go to San Diego Travel Tips.com. We can be reached at: sdtips @ sandiegotraveltips.com For even more information, follow us on Twitter!
Comic-Con 2011 San Diego
Superman and Comic-Con 2011 San Diego
Comic-Con, the annual festival of animation and the popular arts begins with Preview Night on Wednesday, July 20th, continues with the full convention on Thursday, July 21st, and concludes on Sunday, July 24th, 2011.
During the four days of Comic-Con, an amazing influx of creative people come together to commune with each other. Thousands of people, many dressed as their favorite comic or video game characters, descend on downtown San Diego to interact with each other, to buy and trade collectibles, and to hear the latest news on their favorite forms of entertainment, whether in print, online, or in 3-D.
We have designed this guide to accommodate the needs of a variety of people, including people that will be attending the event, tourists that will be visiting Downtown San Diego during the event, as well as people that live in San Diego and are interested in learning more about it.
First Time Going to “The Con”?
If this is your first time at Comic-Con, let us give you a bit of advice. Despite the largesse of this international convention, attendees are remarkably polite and respectful. Many families attend the convention as part of their summer vacation and many more individuals attend because they are devoted fans of their favorite popular arts. This is prime people-watching and the looking is encouraged, not discouraged. Tolerance of long lines and tolerance of different kinds of costumes is a must. We recommend that you leave your judgement at home and just come to take in the experience.
The Comic-Con Experience
The Comic-Con experience extends beyond the San Diego Convention Center as it literally spills out onto the streets and sidewalks of the Gaslamp District. For example, two years ago, traffic was held up briefly so because an unofficial light saber duel took place.
The San Diego Convention Center is completely consumed by Comic-Con. A map of the various meeting rooms and halls can be found in the official printed catalog or online. Here is an Exhibit Hall Map that you can refer to during your Comic-Con experience.
KÀ by Cirque du Soleil Comes to Comic-Con for Opening Night! – The resident production of KÀ by Cirque du Soleil at MGM Grand in Las Vegas will make their first ever appearance at Comic-Con with a free public performance on the opening night of Comic-Con. Utilizing an unprecedented display of 3-D projection and live performance, KÀ will transform a brick wall into the site of an epic battle between good and evil.
When: Thursday, July 21, 2011
8:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Final Countdown to performance begins on outside of PETCO Park. Please arrive no later than 9:00 p.m.
9:30 p.m. – Performance from KÀ by Cirque du Soleil (time is approximate)
Where: Performance will take place on the outside of PETCO Park on Tony Gwynn Drive.
What Has Changed in Downtown San Diego Since Comic-Con 2010
The Pedestrian Bridge to Nowhere Has Opened! – Remember the bridge construction across from the Hilton Bayfront? It is a pedestrian bridge that was supposed to have been completed in 2010. It wasn’t. After some project delays, the bridge finally opened. What does that mean? You can cross over Harbor Drive (the street in front of the Convention Center) without having to wait at the intersection of the trolleys, the cars, and all those people. It is located just north of the Hilton Bayfront and it lets you out right by Petco Park.
New Restaurants Have Opened in the Gaslamp – Bub’s is a casual place that offers fresh air, cheap beer, and an indoor basketball throwing area. Cafe Sevilla opened in what was once Bondi, the failed Aussie bar. Let’s see if Spanish cuisine and beverages make it in this locale. And last but not least, Hodad’s, Ocean Beach’s legendary burger joint, finally finished construction late last year and has been serving up their tasty burgers, fries, onion rings and frosty cold ones to the masses.
The Gaslamp Quarter Association Welcomes Comic-Con – Although Comic-Con takes place at the San Diego Convention Center, the area that it is located in is called the Gaslamp Quarter. This year, the folks at the Gaslamp Quarter Association have a dedicated a page to the fan boys and fans girls to help them figure out what to do when they are not waiting for panels to start and where to get more interesting grub than the Convention Center’s nachos.
East Village Has a Brewery – Appropriately housed in the old Wonder Bread building (yeast, people), Mission Brewery offers some good local craft beer in a spacious setting. Best of all, the ceiling is high enough to accommodate food trucks inside the building. Can’t beat that. Speaking of food trucks, expect to see more of them this year since the food truck phenomena finally reached San Diego in a big way.
TIP! Wear your Comic-Con badge and/or come in costume and the Mission Brewery will shave $1 off your frosty pint. This offer is good for Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. They are located at 14th & L, on the other side of the pedestrian bridge over Harbor Drive.
History Buffs Can Take In a Comic-Con Museum Exhibition – The San Diego History Center in Balboa Park (a short ride away from Downtown) has mounted a display of Comic-Con memorabilia from the personal collection of the founder of Comic-Con himself, Shel Dorf. “Comic-Con: The Early Years, Memorabilia from the Shel Dorf Collection” showcases some of the earliest promotional material used for the Comic-Con convention as well as revealing some little-known facts about one of San Diego’s most treasured annual events.
Hello Kitty! Maneki Neko Beckon You to Balboa Park – The Mingei International Museum in Balboa Park specializes in unique folk art exhibitions representing many cultures around the world. Of particular interest to Comic-Con attendees is the 155 beckoning cat collection called Maneki Neko. It is a fun exhibition and it has proved to be a big draw. The cats are located on the 2nd floor and they are waiting for you to come and raise your paw.
The Food Trucks Are Coming – Yes, San Diego has finally embraced the concept of portable good eats and folks are very excited about these meals on wheels. The good people at San Diego Food Trucks told us that a gaggle of them will convene as a Food Truck Food Court, located at a parking lot near The Con at First Avenue/Island & Second Avenue & J. Here is a map.
Food Truck Schedule: Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., although most trucks will be gone by 8:00 p.m.
Please note that the entrance will be off First Avenue, right next to the Comedy Central Interactive Park. Warner Brothers, Disney, and Comedy Central/South Park will also be doing projects in the lot. Fun, fun!!
Celebrity Spotting at Comic-Con 2011
One of the most intriguing aspects of Comic-Con is that famous celebrities attend the convention in costume and sometimes even try out an act with the public. It has become a given that major movie studios and TV networks have come to Comic-Con to show previews and make presentations that showcase cult, favorite and brand new shows. In fact, so many appearances are made that we don’t even have the final list at press time. If you want the latest information, be sure to go to Comic-Con’s ever-changing special guest list.
Panels With Celebrities
Thursday, July 21st Highlights
- 11:15 p.m. to 12:15 p.m. – The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 1— Summit Entertainment presents a sneak peek at the highly anticipated next chapter of The Twilight Saga. Exclusive footage from The Twilight Saga Breaking Dawn Part 1; filmmaker and cast Q&A session providing details on the first half of the two-part finale. Location: Hall H
- 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Napoleon Dynamite— Original cast members from the hit indie film including Jon Heder, Tina Majorino, Efren Ramirez, Jon Gries, Sandy Martin, Diedrich Bader and executive producer Mike Scully present a new animated series based on the main character. Location: Room 7AB
- 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. – FilmDistrict Studio Panel— FilmDistrict introduces two upcoming features: Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark, a Guillermo Del Toro production starring Katie Holmes and Guy Pearce, and Drive, directed by Nicolas Winding Refn, starring Ryan Gosling, Carey Mulligan, Ron Perlman, and Christina Hendricks. Exclusive footage will be presented and a Q&A will be held for both films. Location: Hall H
- 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. – Game of Thrones Panel and Q&A Session— Based on the bestselling fantasy book series “A Song of Ice and Fire” by George R. R. Martin, HBO’s Game of Thrones concluded its 10-episode debut season on June 19. Some of the cast featured in the first season and appearing on this panel are (in alphabetical order) Emilia Clarke as Daenerys Targaryen, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau as Ser Jaime Lannister, Peter Dinklage as Tyrion Lannister, Kit Harington as Jon Snow, and Jason Momoa as Khal Drogo. Moderated by George R. R. Martin, who also serves as a co-executive producer and writer on the series. Location: Ballroom 20
- 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. DC: Mad about MAD— Featuring short animated parodies, crazy commercials, pretend promos and classic gags inspired by the iconic magazine, join MAD magazine editor John Ficarra, art director Sam Viviano and Spy vs. Spy artist Peter Kuper, along with MAD series producers Kevin Shinick and Mark Marek, for a sizzle reel of laughs from season one, a sneak peek at Season 2, and a Q&A session. Location: Room 25ABC
- 10:15 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. Epix Pictures: The Captains — William Shatner is joined by fellow Star Trek captain Avery Brooks to present a preview of the EPIX Pictures original documentary produced and directed by Shatner, in which he travels the world to interview all the actors who’ve played Starfleet captains. The discussion and Q&A session is moderated by Kevin Smith. Location: Room 6BCF.
- 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. – The Big Bang Theory Screening and Q&A — The show’s producers and stars return to San Diego with a special screening and Q&A. Executive producers Chuck Lorre, Bill Prady, and Steve Molaro join stars Johnny Galecki, Jim Parsons, Kaley Cuoco, Simon Helberg, Kunal Nayyar, Mayim Bialik, and Melissa Rauch for a fun and lively discussion. Location: Ballroom 20
- 2:45 p.m. to 3:45 p.m. – DreamWorks: Fright Night— Colin Farrell, Anton Yelchin, Christopher Mintz-Plasse, Imogen Poots, Dave Franco, director Craig Gillespie, and screenwriter Marti Noxon take the dais to give fans a taste of the horrific fun to come in DreamWorks Pictures’ 3D reimagining of the classic horror film. Location: Hall H
- 1:00 p.m. to 12:00 p.m. – Archie Comics: The Future of Riverdale and Beyond— Archie’s co-CEO Jon Goldwater, president Mike Pellerito, and editor-in-chief Victor Gorelick, iVerse’s Michael Murphey, creators Dan Parent (Kevin Keller) and Michael Uslan (Batman, Life with Archie), and Archie executive director of publicity and marketing Alex Segura (Archie & Friends) present a look into the future of Archie stories, major announcements, special guest stars, digital plans, and much more! Location: Room 23ABC
Saturday, July 23rd Highlights
- 11:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. – TWIXT: Francis Ford Coppola and Dan Deacon— Legendary filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola and acclaimed musician Dan Deacon present sequences from Coppola’s latest film, TWIXT, and involve the audience in a dress rehearsal of the completely unique and innovative way they plan on performing it. Plus a Q&A session. Location: Hall H
- 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. – Designing the SuperHero Costume: Costume Designers, Costume Illustrators and Superhero Costume Builders— Costume designers work with costume illustrators to translate graphic artists’ renderings into wearable, functioning, cinematic costumes. Hear the inside stories from the people who bring the superhero costume to life. Moderator Deborah Nadoolman Landis (member of Costume Designers Guild, Local 892, costume designer, Raiders of the Lost Ark, director of the David C. Copley Center for Costume Design at UCLA) is joined by costume designers Christine Bieslin-Clark (co-costume designer, Tron: Legacy) and Ellen Mirojnick (G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra), Christian Beckman of Quantum FX, Inc. (specialty costume fabricator, Tron: Legacy, Watchmen), costume manufacturers Mary Ellen Fields of Bill Hargate Costumes (Iron Man 2), and Marilyn Madsen (Star Trek TV series), and costume illustrators Constantine Sekeres (Thor, Green Lantern) and Christian Cordella (GI Joe 2: Cobra Strikes, Captain America: The Last Avenger). Location: Room 23ABC
- 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. – Further over the Rainbow: A First Look at Dorothy of Oz— Join the author and creator, Roger Baum (great grandson of L. Frank Baum), songwriter, producers, and various cast members of Summertime Entertainment’s Dorothy of Oz, as they discuss the many angles of creating the anticipated new 2012 animated musical starring Lea Michele, Megan Hilty, Martin Short, and Patrick Stewart. Be the very first to see the footage, hear the music, and witness a surprise new casting announcement. Q&A to follow. Location: Hall H
- 8:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. – HBO’s True Blood Presents the Comic-Con International Masquerade— Fabulous original and re-created costumes crafted by talented attendees appear on stage before an audience of thousands, with impressive awards and cash prizes bestowed to those judged most outstanding. Doors will open for audience seating at 7:45 pm, but the line will start much earlier! Tickets will be required for seating, and will be given out free to those lining up near Ballroom 20 beginning at 2:00 pm Saturday until all tickets are gone. The masters of ceremonies will once again be writer/artists Phil Foglio and Kaja Foglio of Studio Foglio. (Note: overflow seating is available in Rooms 5AB, 6A and in the Sails Pavilion; tickets not required for overflow areas). Location: Ballroom 20
Autographs - Like every year, Comic-Con 2011 will also be featuring a wide spectrum of guests that will be on hand to sign autographs. Located upstairs in the Sails Pavilion, the Autograph Area is the place to go for a special memento from a variety of artists, authors, and actors from every era of popular culture.
The Autograph Area is open from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, and from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Sunday.
COMIC-CON LOGISTICS
Daily Schedule
- Wednesday, July 21st (Preview Night) – 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. (4-Day Memberships ONLY)
- Thursday, July 22nd – 9:30 a.m. to 7:00p.m. *
- Friday, July 23rd – 9:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. *
- Saturday, July 24th – 9:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. *
- Sunday, July 25th – 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
* Additional nighttime events and programming run until after midnight.
Comic-Con 2011 Parking Information – Parking in downtown San Diego is limited but there are a number of paid parking lots that you can secure if you arrive early. Don’t bother trying to park at a meter because there aren’t enough long-term meters near the San Diego Convention Center, although you can always give it a try. You can purchase an official Comic-Con Parking Pass in advance and online through Comic-Con. There are various parking lots (both on-site and off-site) that are participating in this demonstration project.
Comic-Con Can Shuttle You for Free – If you are one of the thousands that plan to travel to San Diego for Comic-Con, please take advantage of Comic-Con’s free shuttle service. Comic-Con knows just how impacted parking can get in the downtown area. In order to ease congestion and increase convenience, Comic-Con has chartered specially marked buses to shuttle between various convention hotels and the San Diego Convention Center.
The good folks at Comic-Con have also taken locals into account – even if you’re not staying at a downtown hotel, you can still utilize this service by parking your car at a structure away from the Convention Center and taking the shuttle.
Comic-Con and Public Transportation – The San Diego Metropolitan Transit Service (MTS) will be providing Red Line special event service from Qualcomm Stadium to the Convention Center every 15 minutes all four days of Comic Con. Parking is free and plentiful at Qualcomm Stadium (this is where the San Diego Chargers football team play) EXCEPT Wednesday night due to a special event at the stadium..
Insider’s Tip: Transit riders should purchase a day pass for $5. Better yet, buy a four-day pass for only $15.
Hotel Accommodations – If you have not booked your hotel room yet, be sure to visit Comic-Con’s official hotel information page. Last minute discounts for hotel rooms may be available.
Disabled Services - Comic-Con’s Disabled Services Department’s goal is to make everyone feel welcome and comfortable as possible at Comic-Con. Special attention is paid to attendees who need assistance with mobility and language.
- Wheelchairs are available for loan in 2-3-hour increments on a first-come, first-serve basis at the San Diego Convention Center with a picture ID and a $20 deposit.
- A special rest area for the disabled, elderly, expectant moms, and parents with babies.
- Cold storage of medications.
- American Sign Language interpreters for the deaf during the large panels and the Masquerade.
- Special limited seating for the disabled for large programming events and the Masquerade.
Child Care Services for Comic-Con – Comic-Con has a long-standing tradition of providing a childcare vendor (KiddieCorp) to service those conventioneers who wish to give their kids a break from all the action.
May the Force Be With You – Whew! That was a lot of information to digest (and to write). The Comic-Con experience is just that, an experience. If you have been curious, go. If you haven’t been curious, you shouldn’t even have gotten down this far. If you have been going for years, good for you!
If you have any comments that you would like to share with us and the rest of the universe, please feel free to provide relevant comments below.
Would you like our latest edition to land in your inbox? All you need to do is subscribe. To subscribe to the blog, look for the SUBSCRIBE button just below the photo on the upper right-hand corner. If you want to find out about things to do in San Diego, go to San Diego Travel Tips.com. We can be reached at: sdtips @ sandiegotraveltips.com For even more information, follow us on Twitter!
Like this:
4th of July Fireworks San Diego 2011
San Diego Big Bay Fireworks (Photo Courtesy: sailangle.com)
Here’s the quick and dirty information on where to find some of our favorite 4th of July fireworks displays in San Diego in 2011:
Big Bay Boom Fireworks Show
9:00 p.m. The big daddy of them all. Fireworks explode all around the Big Bay. The colorful display can be seen from Chula Vista, Harbor Island, North Embarcadero, Shelter Island and Seaport Village. The shindig will last about 17 minutes. Go early and expect traffic. Check the website for more and updated information on shuttles, etc.
La Jolla Cove Concert and Fireworks
9:00 p.m Fireworks can be seen from La Jolla Shores, Scripps Park and La Jolla Cove. Parking might be nuts so go early and enjoy the 5:00 p.m. concert.
9:15 p.m. The community of Lake Murray puts on fireworks show over Lake Murray. Lake Murray Community Park, 7001 Murray Park Drive, San Diego.
Mira Mesa’s Fireworks & Activities
9:00 – 9:30 p.m. Fireworks at Mira Mesa High School.
San Diego County Fair Fireworks Show
9:00 p.m. This is the big fireworks show that takes place at the San Diego County Fair 2011. The fireworks show is free with fair admission.
City of Vista Red, White and Boom Celebration
9:00 p.m. This fireworks show is brought to you by The City of Vista and it will be held at Brengle Terrace Park, 1200 Vale Terrace Drive.
Would you like our latest edition to land in your inbox? All you need to do is subscribe. To subscribe to the blog, look for the SUBSCRIBE button just below the photo on the upper right-hand corner. If you want to find out about things to do in San Diego, go to San Diego Travel Tips.com. We can be reached at: sdtips @ sandiegotraveltips.com For even more information, follow us on Twitter!
San Diego County Fair 2011
San Diego County Fair
San Diego County’s fair features all the normal stuff you would expect to find: garden shows, gadget demonstrations, animal talent and human talent competitions, hobby and craft exhibits, pie-making and pie-eating competitions, carnival rides, talent shows, and live music. All of this happens throughout the picturesque Del Mar Fairgrounds. Suffice to say, a feast for the eyes and ears, not just the stomach.
The 2011 San Diego County Fair will be serving up all the fun this summer from June 10-July 4, 2011.
We always say this because it’s true. Many people, both locals and tourists alike, still refer to this annual summer event as the Del Mar Fair. A few years back, the Del Mar Fair was renamed the San Diego County Fair in order to capture all of San Diego County, and not just the lovely coastal City of Del Mar.
What’s New This Year, You Ask?
The theme of the 2011 San Diego County Fair is “Race to the Fair.”
A new theme exhibit, “Cruisin’ California,” will feature rotating car shows, a NASCAR driving simulator, a “drive” along Route 66 and much more.
A couple of new attractions should strike a nerve or two, especially if you are an avid fan of hot dogs, elephants and/or a smoker who has been wanting to quit.
Pinks! Hot Dogs from Los Angeles will be opening up a booth this year. If you are a foodie, you know that these dogs are real weiners! Take that, Swifty Swine!
The fine folks at the Fine Art area will be setting up a Pachyderm (as in elephants) Painting Exhibit. Paintings will be done by a very talented elephant will be part of a special display. Best of all, proceeds will be donated to charity.
Have you been wanting to quit smoking but are at a loss? Why not take advantage of the free smoking cessation hypnosis offered twice at the San Diego County Fair this year? Longtime hypnotist, Mark Yuzuik, will conduct two stop-smoking hypnosis sessions on two Wednesdays, June 15 and June 29, from 3:00 p.m. to -4:00 p.m. in the Turf Club. Best of all, this event is free with admission to the Fair.
FOOD, GLORIOUS FOOD!
Let’s face it, most people go to the San Diego County Fair to sample the food and well, let’s be honest, pig out. Fairgoers can take comfort in knowing that there is a lot of ground to cover and a lot of fish to fry at the San Diego County Fair so you will be getting some exercise. Last year, all the rage was about the chocolate-covered bacon and the fried butter. We haven’t heard what the latest trend is for this year’s fair but we’re sure the local press will let us know.
Money-Saving Tip: If you really want just a taste of all the goodies available at the San Diego County Fair this year, plan your visit for a Tuesday. We really like the “$2 Taste of the Fair Tuesday” which allows you to graze through participating food vendors’ booths and sample a cream puff, a fried zucchini, some freshly fried potato chips, Texas-sized doughnuts, deep-fried Twinkie, etc. Maybe we should just call it “Fat Tuesday”…
We’ve got much more information about the San Diego County Fair in our annual article on our travel website, SanDiegoTravelTips.com.
Read the rest of this article here. Relax, no log-in required.
Would you like our latest edition to land in your inbox? All you need to do is subscribe. To subscribe to the blog, look for the SUBSCRIBE button just below the photo on the upper right-hand corner. If you want to find out about things to do in San Diego, go to San Diego Travel Tips.com. We can be reached at: sdtips @ sandiegotraveltips.com For even more information, follow us on Twitter!
San Diego Free Outdoor Summer Movies 2011
San Diego Free Outdoor Summer Movies 2011 (Photo Courtesy: Balboa Park - Screen on the Green at the San Diego Museum of Art)
Summer movies are known to be big box office blockbusters for Hollywood producers and studios. In San Diego, the mild summer nights provide the perfect backdrop for outdoor movie watching. Best of all, most of the outdoor summer movie screenings are FREE and are usually located in public spaces.
We have selected some of our favorite outdoor summer movie venues for your viewing pleasure.
Please note that the very popular Cinema Under the Stars in Mission Hills is not part of this list because they charge admission and this article is about free movie screenings. But, you can still click on the link above to get to that movie series.
We know that we might have missed a few free movie series. If we did, please feel free to share that information with the rest of the class in the comment section below.
San Diego Free Outdoor Summer Movies 2011
NEW! The USS Midway offers a FREE movie, “Independence Day”, July 2nd on the flight deck of the USS Midway. Doors open at 7:00 p.m. Movie starts at 8:30 p.m.
County of San Diego Summer Movies in the Park Series - Once again, the County of San Diego is hosting the region’s largest free outdoor summer movies series. The movie series goes from June 3, 2011 to September 17, 2011. Over 40 family-friendly films will be screened outdoors at public venues all over San Diego County. The San Diego County Department of Parks and Recreation has teamed up with the cities of San Diego, National City, La Mesa, San Marcos, Oceanside, Poway and Lemon Grove and the U.S.S. Midway to put on the big show.
Various locations. Please check this link for the full schedule.
Stone Late Night Movie Series – Beer and a movie sure sounds good doesn’t it? How about having a great craft beer in your hand as you swill and watch movies under the stars of Escondido? On Wednesday nights from June 1 - August 31, 2011, the good folks at Stone Brewing are hosting a free, summer-long outdoor cinema screening series.
The screenings start at either 8:00 p.m. or 8:30 p.m. (unless otherwise noted) and are geared for folks ages 21 and up (unless noted). Why the 21 and up rule? Because Stone would like you to enjoy the film with a pint of beer in your hand. Buying beer and food is the least you can do, right? The movies at Stone Brewing cross many genres and styles ranging from “The Princess Bride” to “Blazing Saddles” to the crowd favorite, “Fast Times at Ridgemont High.”
Important Tips: Bring lawn chairs and blankets since it can get a bit chilly and there aren’t enough chairs to go around at Stone. Plan to arrive fairly early to the venue since spaces get filled up quickly. Stone distributes wristbands at the host stand in the afternoon, and then beginning at 6:30 p.m. at the top of the stairs.
The list of movies is quite long. Here is a quick link to Stone Brewing’s free movie schedule for the summer.
Stone Brewing is located at 1999 Citracado Parkway in Escondido.
San Diego Museum of Art Screen on the Green – The San Diego Museum of Art (SDMA) is celebrating its 11th year of offering this popular free summer movie series in Balboa Park. Screen on the Green offers three film screenings that take place at sunset in the heart of Balboa Park. Viewers are invited to “pack a picnic, grab a blanket, and bring their friends” to enjoy a leisurely evening on the east lawn. Traditionally, more than 800 viewers attend each film. This program is free to the public. The art exhibit-related film series begins on July 22nd, continues on August 5th, and concludes on August 19, 2011. All three movies start at 8:00 p.m. and go until 10:00 p.m. The movies are screened on the East Lawn located near the Botanical Building and the Casa del Prado in Balboa Park.
This communal outdoor event is free, and it is very popular with the locals. Be sure to arrive early so you can relax while others scurry and scootch for a good spot later. Be sure to either pack a blanket or your low-level beach chairs so that you are not sitting on the lawn all evening. Remember that bugs live in the grass and itching may occur. Be sure to bring your favorite movie snack with you and why not bring some to share with your movie neighbors?
2011 Screen on the Green Schedule
“The Fountainhead” (1949) – July 22nd
Presented in conjunction with Gustav Stickley and the American Arts and Crafts Movement.
“The Train” (1964) – August 5th
Presented in conjunction with the San Diego Museum of Art’s Permanent Collection.
TBA – August 19th
This film will be presented in collaboration with the San Diego Asian Film Foundation, and will celebrate the Museum’s renowned collection of Asian Art.
The San Diego Museum of Art is located at 1450 El Prado in Balboa Park.
City of La Mesa Summer Movies - The Jewel in the Hills is sponsoring a Dive-In movie on July 15, 2011 and a Movie in the Park on July 29, 2011.
Dive-In Movie – July 15, 2011 at 8:00 p.m.
“Toy Story 3” - La Mesa Municipal Pool, 5100 Memorial Drive
Movie in the Park on July 29, 2011 at 8:00 p.m.
“Despicable Me” – La Mesita Park, 8855 Dallas Street
Santee Lakes Movies by the Lake - This year ’round recreation area located in and around a man-made lake sponsors a very popular summer movie series. Since the climate is hotter as you head east, summer nights by the lake sound very nice to folks who don’t want to chill out too much. The cost? A nominal charge for parking IF you are NOT a resident of Santee.
Movies by the Lakes – 2011
‘Yogi Bear’ - June 24th
“Open Season 3″ - July 8th
“The Ant Bully” - July 22nd
“Tangled” - August 5th
“Toy Story 3″- August 19th
Santee Lakes is located at 9310 Fanita Parkway in Santee.
Did we miss your favorite outdoor summer movie screening? If so, please send us a comment and we’ll update this posting.
Would you like our latest edition to land in your inbox? All you need to do is subscribe. To subscribe to the blog, look for the SUBSCRIBE button just below the photo on the upper right-hand corner. If you want to find out about things to do in San Diego, go to San Diego Travel Tips.com. We can be reached at: sdtips @ sandiegotraveltips.com For even more information, follow us on Twitter!
San Diego Free Outdoor Summer Concerts 2011
Outdoor Summer Concerts in San Diego 2011 (Photo Courtesy: The Del Mar Foundation)
San Diego is summer concert central and people flock to parks, beaches, and outdoor amphitheaters to take in the local sounds of musicians and singers.
From the East to the West, outdoor summer concerts pepper San Diego county’s communities and offer something unique to do during the summer. Best of all, each community’s concert series has its own flavor and style. For the most part, the concerts become an extension of the communities themselves. Best of all, most the concerts are free!
If you are visiting San Diego and want to find out where the locals go, be sure to check our list of San Diego summer concerts. You’ll be welcomed! And, if you don’t have a beach chair, be sure to bring a beach towel, blanket, or hotel towel to sit on.
San Diego Summer Concerts Guide 2011
Alpine Concerts in the Park - Starts on June 26, 2011; various dates; all start at 5:30pm.
Alpine Community Center, 1830 Alpine Boulevard
Balboa Park Spreckels Organ Society - Year ’round Sunday concerts at 2:00 p.m.
Spreckels Organ Pavilion, Balboa Park
Balboa Park International Summer Organ Festival - Begins June 20, 2011; Monday concerts - 7:30 p.m.
Spreckels Organ Pavilion, Balboa Park
Balboa Park Twilight in the Park - Begins June 21, 2011; Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday concerts – 6:15 p.m. to 7:15 p.m.
Spreckels Organ Pavilion, Balboa Park
Carlsbad TGIF Jazz in the Park - Begins June 24, 2011; Friday concerts – 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Various locations, please check the website.
Chula Vista Village Walk - Begins June 5th; Sunday concerts – 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Village Walk at Eastlake, Eastlake Parkway & Miller Drive
Chula Vista Village Vibes - Begins July 13, 2011; Wednesday concerts – 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Memorial Park Bowl, 373 Park Way
Coronado Ferry Landing - Begins June 4, 2011; mostly Saturday and Sunday concerts – 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
1201 1st Street
Coronado Concerts in the Park – Begins May 30, 2011; Sunday concerts – 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. except July 4th & September dates.
Spreckels Park, 7th Street & Orange Avenue
Del Mar Racetrack Summer Concert Series - Begins July 20, 2011; mostly Friday concerts.
The concerts take place after the races and are free to racing attendees/$20 for non-race attendees.
New venue! Seaside Stage, 2260 Jimmy Durante Boulevard
Del Mar Twilight Concerts – Begins June 21, 2011; third Tuesday of the month concerts – most start at 7:00 p.m.
Powerhouse Park, 1600 Coast Boulevard, Del Mar
El Cajon Concerts on the Green - Begins May 6, 2011; Friday concerts – 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Prescott Promenade, E. Main Street & Prescott Avenue
Encinitas Summer Concert Series - Begins July 10, 2011; four Sunday concerts in July and August - 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Moonlight State Beach, 400 B Street
La Jolla Concerts by the Sea - Begins July 10, 2011; Sunday concerts – 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Ellen Browning Scripps Park, 1133 Coast Boulevard
La Mesa Sundays at Six - Begins June 12, 2011; Sunday concerts – 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Harry Griffen Park, 9550 Milden Street
Lemon Grove Concerts in the Park - Begins July 7, 2011; Thursday concerts in July and August 4th & 11th – 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Berry Street Park, 7071 Mt. Vernon Street
18th Annual Mission Hills Concerts in the Park - July 4, 2011 from 10:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Two additional Friday concerts in July from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Pioneer/Mission Hills Park, 1425 Washington Place
North Park Bird Park Summer Concerts - Begins July 2, 2011; four Saturday concerts – 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Bird Park, 28th Street & Thorn Street
Oceanside Concerts in the Park - Friday Concerts 7/15/11 & 8/26/11 - 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Rancho del Oro Park, 4700 Mesa Drive, Oceanside
Pacific Beach Concerts on the Green - Begins July 24, 2011; Sunday concerts – 4:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Kate Sessions Park, Lamont Street just north of Beryl Street
Point Loma Summer Concerts - Begins July 15, 2011; Friday concerts in July and August – 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Point Loma Park, 1049 Catalina Boulevard
Poway Summer Concert Series - Begins June 26, 2011; Sunday concerts – 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Various locations, please check the website.
San Marcos Concert - August 13, 2011 at 6:00 p.m.
Hollandia Park, 12 Mission Hills Court
Santee Summer Concert Series - Begins June 16, 2011; Thursday concerts – 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Town Center Community Park East, New Venue! 550 Park Center Drive, Santee
Scripps Ranch Symphony in the Park Series - Begins June 12, 2011; 2nd Sunday of the month concerts – 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Hoyt Park, Scripps Ranch Boulevard & Aviary Drive
Solana Beach Concerts at the Cove - Begins June 16, 2011; Thursdays in June, July, and August – 6:00 p.m. to 7:45 p.m.
Fletcher Cove Park, 140 S. Sierra Avenue
University Heights Summer in the Park Concerts - Begins July 8, 2011. Friday concerts held every Friday in July and the first Friday in August – 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Trolley Barn Park, 1998 Adams Avenue
Vista Summer Music Concerts - Begins June 24, 2011; Friday concerts – 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Corner of Main Street and S. Indiana Avenue
Would you like our latest edition to land in your inbox? All you need to do is subscribe. To subscribe to the blog, look for the SUBSCRIBE button just below the photo on the upper right-hand corner. If you want to find out about things to do in San Diego, go to San Diego Travel Tips.com. We can be reached at: sdtips @ sandiegotraveltips.com For even more information, follow us on Twitter!
