16 Fun Things To Do In San Diego In September (2023)
Want to know all the best things to do in San Diego in September? We’ve got you covered with everything you need to know!
Things To Do In San Diego In September
San Diego has plenty to offer during the Fall and Halloween season.
Though the weather won’t really feel like the Fall, you’ll still get in the spirit with a variety of events, festivals, and seasonal offerings.
Below are the best things to do in San Diego in September.
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1. Howl-O-Scream at Sea World San Diego
Sea World also hosts it’s own night time event called Howl-O-Scream, which happens on select nights from September 15th – October 29st.
During the day time park hours there are kid friendly activities.
2. Brick-or-Treat at Legoland California
Since Legoland is a kid oriented park, it’s Halloween event is entirely kid-friendly as well.
There is tons of candy, shows, characters, and more.
The event takes place on September 16, 23, 30, and select Saturdays and Sundays in October.
3. Julian
Julian, California is a great place in Southern California to see Fall foliage.
It’s an old Gold Rush town just east of San Diego.
They are known for their apples, so definitely do some apple picking while you’re there and bring home some apple pies.
If you click the link above, it goes to another blog post on our site of the Best Things To Do in Julian in the Fall.
Christopher from EcoMotionCentral says, “In my opinion, one of the best places to visit in Southern California during the fall is the Julian Apple Days Festival.
This charming, old-fashioned event takes place in the small town of Julian, renowned for its apple orchards.
The festival honors the apple harvest season and offers a variety of activities for all ages, like apple picking, hayrides, and cider tasting.
What makes it special is its unique blend of historical traditions with modern-day fun.
It’s a great place to enjoy the crisp fall air, picturesque mountain views, and of course, delicious apple pies.”
4. Halloween Movie Screenings at Rooftop Cinema Club
They show films seven nights a week at their venues in San Diego, the LA Arts District, Downtown LA, and El Segundo.
September 1st-3rd they are getting a jump start on their “Summerween” movie line up with 2+ movies per night.
Movies will include: Hocus Pocus, Friday The 13th (1980), Coraline, Halloweentown, Practical Magic, Edward Scissorhands, Scream (1996), Halloween (1978), The Nightmare Before Christmas, The Addams Family (1991), Rocky Horror Picture Show, American Psycho, and A Nightmare On Elm Street (1984).
Click for more information on Rooftop Cinema Club’s Halloween movie screenings!
5. Liberty Public Market Craftober Fest
Ravi from RoverPass shares, “this event will occur between September 22 and October 1, 2023.
No one should miss this eventful fall celebration, as the Liberty Public Market promises to be a haven for foodies, craft beer enthusiasts, and everyone looking forward to having an unforgettable time.
The exciting range of activities includes tasting diverse craft beers, delicious food, live music, Beerlympics, bingo, vinyl records, trivia, and a host of exciting prizes.”
6. San Diego Distiller’s Fest
Ravi from RoverPass also shares, this festival will take place on September 23, 2023, in a picturesque setting against the backdrop of San Diego Bay.
This annual event is the fifth-year celebration where everyone can enjoy listening to live music and taste delectable bites from local food trucks.
Besides, complimentary spirits and cocktails from over 20 distilleries and expert distillers are available for connoisseurs with VIP access.”
7. San Diego Bow Wow Brunch Cruise
In San Diego, the Bow Wow Brunch Cruise invites owners and their four legged friends to an exclusive Bow Wow Buffet on Sept. 23 to help raise money and awareness for the San Diego Humane Society .
Guests will enjoy a delicious and bountiful brunch buffet with unlimited champagne and desserts.
Additionally, Fido gets a pet buffet to choose from along with a dog relief area set up on the sun deck of the yacht.
8. San Diego Restaurant Week
San Diego Restaurant Week takes place from September 24th – October 1st.
While there are many events throughout San Diego for this, here is one we highly recommend.
Enjoy a delicious plated dinner while gliding across the water and taking in views of San Diego’s most famous sights, including the Coronado Bay Bridge, the Star of India and more.
With menu offerings handcrafted by our chefs from local, seasonal ingredients, take part in the annual San Diego Restaurant Week dining experience.
9. Haunted Trail Of Balboa Park
Christopher of EcoMotionCentral.com, shares “for Halloween enthusiasts, I’d recommend the Haunted Trail of Balboa Park.
It’s a mile-long trail through the park that’s filled with spooky surprises.”
Opening night is September 22nd.
Be sure to check out the eXperiment Maze and the Haunted Trail while you’re here.
10. Bates Nut Farm
Christopher of EcoMotionCentral.com, also shares, “in my opinion, you can’t miss the opportunity to visit the local pumpkin patches.
Bates Nut Farm is one of the best, with a massive pumpkin patch, hayrides, and a corn maze.”
The pumpkin patch opens Saturday, September 16th.
11. San Diego Padres At Petco Park
Christopher of EcoMotionCentral.com, also shares, “if you’re a sports fan, a Padres game at Petco Park is a must.
The atmosphere is electric, and the stadium offers stunning views of the city.”
There are several games still being played throughout the month of September.
12. Del Mar Food & Wine Festival
San Diego Tourism Authority shares, “the inaugural Del Mar Food & Wine Festival will take place September 6-11 at Surf Sports Park.
The festival highlights the best of the Southern California lifestyle, with a lineup of celebrity Food Network chefs including Antonia Lofaso, Brian Malarkey, and Eric Greenspan.
Plus, local chefs including Tara Monsod of Animae, Claudette Zepeda of VAGA, and Brad Wise of TRUST Restaurant Group.
Even sports legends including Drew Brees, Alex Morgan, and Rob Machado will be in attendance.”
13. ENVZN23: Urban Art Takeover
San Diego Tourism Authority also shares, “Vanguard Culture’s ENVZN23: Urban Art Takeover will transform industrial spaces, unused buildings, and public areas of Commercial Street in Logan Heights with immersive and interactive art experiences on September 2.
Attendees can expect larger than life art displays, live performances in non-traditional venue spaces, and authentic cuisine from a variety of cultures.”
14. CRSSD Fest
San Diego Tourism Authority also shares, “CRSSD Fest will bring over 36 artists to San Diego’s Waterfront Park for a two-day electronic music festival, September 23 and 24.
Performances by Flume, Underworld, Basement Jaxx, Amelie Lens and many others will set the stage for this popular event.
In addition to the music, the festival will offer craft beer, mixed cocktails, food and more.”
15. Belmont Park Fall Festival
San Diego Tourism Authority also shares, “Belmont Park presents its Fall Festival at the Boardwalk September 9 – October 31.
There will be activities and treats for both kids and adults, with trick-or-treating throughout the boardwalk, live music, and fall flavored snacks and drinks.
The park will also host its first community 5K on September 17 to raise awareness for childhood cancer.”
16. Ghosts And Gravestones Frightseeing Tour
Shreya from LowestFlightFares.com shares, “The Ghosts and Gravestones Frightseeing Tour is to die for, well, not literally of course.
Try the all black “Doom buggies” ride for a heart-throbbing experience.
Starting at $39, the trip has more frightful things to explore.
The tour is currently ongoing so catch up and hurry for a ballistic experience.
Located on Old Town Trolley Tours.”
More Fun Things To Do In Southern California In The Fall
Below are more fun things to do throughout Southern California in the Fall.
🎃 Fun Things To Do In Anaheim In September
From seasonal foods and drinks to Fall Harvest festivals, there are a ton of great things to do in Anaheim in September.
🎃 Fun Things To Do In Los Angeles In September
September is one of the best times of the year to visit LA.
There are seemingly endless things to do in all areas.
🎃 The Best Things To Do In Southern California This Fall
For even more ideas, check out our list of all the best things to do in Southern California this Fall.
We’ve got events, festivals, Oktoberfests, Fall foliage towns, and more.
Frequently Asked Questions About Things To Do In San Diego In September
Below are some of the most frequently asked questions we see about things to do in San Diego in September.
✔️ Is September A Good Month To Visit San Diego?
Yes, September is a good month to visit San Diego.
The weather is typically pleasant with warm temperatures, lower crowds, and less expensive accommodations compared to the peak summer season.
✔️ What Is The Weather Like In San Diego In September?
In September, the weather in San Diego is generally warm and pleasant, with daytime temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to the mid-70s Fahrenheit.
Rainfall is minimal, and it’s mostly sunny with occasional coastal fog.
Overall, it’s a favorable time for outdoor activities and beach visits in the city.
Conclusion: Things To Do In San Diego In September
The above things to do in San Diego in September give a little something for anyone visiting or for locals looking for something fun to do.
