It’s (un)officially summer. If Memorial Day is considered the unofficial start of the summer season, then this weekend is the first weekend of summer.
Don’t let May Gray get you down. Here are some of the top events this weekend.
Filmout San Diego LGBT Film Festival
San Diego is no stranger to film festivals. The Filmout LGBT Film Festival is unique in that it seeks to both enlightened and entertained goers through LGBT-themed screenings.
The three-day film event is held at the historic Observatory North Park Theatre where 18 films will have their premiere.
The festival starts Friday and runs through Sunday. Screenings are held at various times. Tickets range from $10 to $25.
Fiesta del Sol
You can’t have an (un)official start to summer without a kick-off party. The 36th Annual Celebration of Fiesta del Sol in Solana Beach is the quintessential kick-off party.
The free two-day event, hosted by the Solana Beach Chamber of Commerce, features some of the best musical acts around. Performances at the Belly Up also includes local talents.
The event runs from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
Temecula Valley Balloon and Wine Festival
Balloon rides, wine tastings, outdoor concerts and other entertainment are all happening at the Temecula Valley Balloon and Wine Festival.
The event, now in its 32nd year, will run all weekend in the Lake Skinner Recreation Area just east of Temecula.
Musical acts include: Chase Bryant, Kanan Road, Gloriana and Love and Theft, Daughtry, Plaint White T’s, and Cam and Chris Young.
The festival goes from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. Friday, 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday and 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Tickets range from $5 to $50.
‘Come From Away’ the the La Jolla Playhouse
This weekend, the La Jolla Playhouse will have its world premiere of the rock musical, ‘Come From Away.’ The play is centered on thousands of airline passengers who landed in Gander, Newfoundland, on Sept. 11, 2001.
What started as an average day in a small town turned in to an international sleepover when 38 planes were diverted to Gander on Sept. 11. Undaunted by culture clashes and language barriers, the spirited town cheered the stranded travelers with music, an open bar and the recognition that we’re all part of a global family.
‘Come From Away’ opens this weekend and runs through July 12. Tickets start at $25.
Beer for Breakfast
Forget breakfast in bed. And beer festivals in San Diego are a dime a dozen. But Beer for Breakfast, now that’s something else.
The Tin Roof is partnering with Coronado Brewing Company for this unique event. Patrons will receive a pint, a tasting flight and four brunch bites. Of course, when you’re at the Tin Roof, great music is almost a guarantee.
The event starts at 10 a.m. Saturday. Tickets are $35 person or $50 per couple.
D6 Night Market
Based on the vibrant night markets found throughout Asia, the D6 Night Market is a better social event than shopping trip, it is a blend of sights, sounds, smells and tastes.
The D6 Night Market is an open-air casual social gathering where you leisurely stroll, shop and eat (mostly eat)while enjoying the excitement and pleasure that comes from being part of a festive crowd.
The event goes from 4 p.m. to 10 a.m. at the Mira Mesa Community Park. Admission is free.