The weekend is here, and the region is closing out November with a mix of early holiday celebrations, art festivals, concerts, and community events. Here are some of the top happenings from Friday through Sunday.
Mannheim Steamroller Christmas
Chip Davis’ iconic holiday production returns with a blend of synthesizers, orchestral arrangements, and rock influences that reimagine classic carols. The show features about 15 musicians performing on more than 20 instruments, enhanced by multimedia effects for an immersive seasonal experience.
Where: San Diego Civic Theatre
When: Nov. 21–22, 7:30 p.m.
San Diego Anime Con
A three-day convention featuring educational panels, interactive sessions, a cosplay café, contests, artist booths, vendors, and plenty of merch. Open to newcomers and longtime fans alike.
Where: Handlery Hotel, Mission Valley
When: Nov. 21–23
Hours: Day 1 (3–8 p.m.), Day 2 (10 a.m.–12 a.m.), Day 3 (10 a.m.–6 p.m.)
Santa’s After Party
A beachfront holiday pop-up bar offering seasonal cocktails, festive music, and a laid-back coastal atmosphere. A cozy way to ease into the holiday spirit.
Where: Castillos del Mar, Rosarito
When: Nov. 21–30
Hours: 2–10 p.m.
Baja’s Best Arts & Crafts Festival
The inaugural edition of this cross-border arts festival will feature more than 45 local and regional artists showcasing work in painting, ceramics, glass, textiles, handmade jewelry, and more.
Where: Hacienda 43, Rosarito
When: Nov. 22
Hours: 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Martín Ricca
The Argentine pop singer—known for his work in telenovelas and early-2000s hits like “Cupido” and “Corazones rotos”—performs an intimate set in Tijuana.
Where: Black Box, Tijuana
When: Nov. 22
Hours: 7 p.m.
Beer Run Festival
A recreational run followed by a music-driven festival featuring craft beer and local food vendors.
Where: Parque Morelos, Tijuana
When: Nov. 22
Hours: 5 p.m.
Los Auténticos Decadentes
The legendary Argentine band marks its 30th anniversary with a show packed with classics including “Mi vida loca” and “Cómo me voy a olvidar.”
Where: El Foro, Tijuana
When: Nov. 22
Hours: 9 p.m.
Encinitas Holiday Street Fair
One of North County’s largest holiday markets, featuring more than 450 vendors offering handmade gifts, crafts, and food. The fair includes three live-music stages, family activities, and a kid- and dog-friendly beer garden.
Where: South Coast Highway 101, Encinitas
When: Nov. 23
Hours: 9 a.m.–4 p.m.
An Evening with John Legend — “Get Lifted” 20th Anniversary Tour
John Legend celebrates two decades of Get Lifted with a performance of the album in full, along with several of his other hits.
Where: The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park, San Diego
When: Nov. 23
Hours: 7:30 p.m.
Rady Children’s Ice Rink
An outdoor ice skating rink benefitting the Thriving After Cancer Program at Rady Children’s Peckham Center. Admission includes skate and helmet rental.
Where: Arts District Liberty Station — 2875 Dewey Rd., San Diego
When: Nov. 20, 2025–Jan. 4, 2026
Hours: Daily, 10 a.m.–10 p.m. (holiday hours may vary)
