Things to do include festivals, concerts, luaus, presentations and more

Surf music and art festival Sessions Surf Festival runs Sept. 12–19, with a week-long celebration of surf culture through music, surf films and art exhibits. The Opening Day: Music Sessions at Seaside Reef is from noon to 10 p.m. on Sept. 12 at Seaside Reef, 2504 S. Coast Highway 101. Tickets start at $85. Visit sessionssurffestival.com/encinitas/overview. 'Keep Del Mar Green' Community Cleanup 'Keep Del Mar Green' Community Cleanup will be held Saturday, Sept. 19 from 9:30 a.m.-11 a.m.Meet at the 17th Street Del Mar Lifeguard Station before spreading out across the beach, parks, and nearby streets to collect litter, according to the Del Mar Village Association website, which added that the Del Mar Lifeguards will treat participating volunteers 'to a delicious egg and pancake brunch.' All participants must sign up for the community cleanup at www.visitdelmarvillage.com/communitycleanup For questions email info@visitdelmarvillage.com. Batiquitos Lagoon: 'Eat or be Eaten' nature walk Batiquitos Lagoon will hold a docent-led nature walk on Sept. 19 at 10 a.m. titled 'Eat or be Eaten.' Predator/prey relationships are the foundation of ecosystems. Join the docents for a leisurely 90-minute walk to learn about the complex food chain of sea and land creatures, with special attention on local snakes. This free family walk is good for all ages. Meet at the Nature Center, 7380 Gabbiano Lane, Carlsbad. In case of rain, events will be canceled and rescheduled. For more information, visit Batiquitoslagoon.org. Mastering Your Smartphone Are you puzzled by some text messages? Curious about how to send voice messages, pin important conversations, or filter unwanted messages? Interested in improving your photos, sending them by text, or organizing them into albums? Join Solana Beach Community Connections and Senior Tech Connect in a collaborative smartphone workshop offered at no cost to participants.The next set of classes will be held on Monday, Sept. 14, 21 and 28 from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. in the classroom at La Colonia Community Center, which is located at La Colonia Park, 715 Valley Avenue in Solana Beach.Space is limited to 20 participants per workshop and registration is required. Participants must register in advance for the three classes and attend at least two of them. To register, call or text the SBCC phone number at 858-284-6619. Please indicate that you're signing up for the September Sr. Tech Workshops clearly stating your name, phone number and email address. You will receive an email or text confirming your registration. If you are a senior requiring transportation, call the SBCC phone number at 858-284-6619. 21st annual Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon Approximately 50 four-legged surfing contenders will hit the waves at Del Mar Dog Beach on Sunday, Sept. 13, as Helen Woodward Animal Center celebrates the 21st annual Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon, presented by Blue Buffalo. The nation's longest-running canine surf competition will take place from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., with dogs battling it out for the coveted title of Best-In-Surf, according to a news release. The event is free to attend. The first-of-its-kind event draws crowds to the beach to watch canine athletes ride the waves while raising lifesaving funds for Helen Woodward Animal Center's orphan pets and programs. 100% of event proceeds directly support the Woodward Center's mission. The event includes a free Kids' Activity Area featuring crafts and games, pet-focused exhibitors and more.Can't make it to the beach? Fans can watch the Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon's Best in Surf Event unfold live on Facebook beginning at 12 p.m. Parking will be available at Border Avenue/Via de la Valle and Highway 101/Camino del Mar for a $20 donation. For more information or to register (registration is still open), visit animalcenter.org/surf-dog-surf-a-thon/ or call 858-756-4117, ext. 362. DMCC Annual Flu Shot Clinic Del Mar Community Connections will host its Annual Flu Shot Clinic on Friday, Sept. 18, from 12:30 p.m. – 3 p.m. at their headquarters in the Del Mar Community Building. This year's vaccination event will be held on the Del Mar Community Building patio, where flu shots and Covid boosters will be available for free to community members who bring a Medicare card. The event will include opportunities to socialize, enjoy a snack and an ocean view, and meet up with longtime friends and neighbors. This year, new Del Mar Fire Marshal Medi Maldonado will attend to meet the community and offer free resources available to keep the aging community safe, a news release stated. Those interested in participating can learn more and register for a time slot at www.dmcc.cc/fluclinic or call the DMCC office at (858) 792-7565. An expert will demystify hospice services at presentation On Monday, Sept. 14 at 11 a.m. in Del Mar Town Hall (1050 Camino Del Mar), Del Mar Community Connections will host 'Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About the Medicare Hospice Benefit But Were Afraid To Ask.' Juliet York, senior community liaison at Hospice of the North Coast, will walk attendees through the essentials of hospice care. Topics include an overview of Medicare Part A hospice benefits, guidance on who qualifies for hospice, and practical advice on the key questions to ask when interviewing a hospice provider. Designed for older adults, family members, and caregivers, the presentation will offer straightforward information to help families make informed, confident decisions during a difficult time. The presentation is free. People interested in attending can register at www.dmcc.cc/programregistration. Del Mar Seacoast Republican Women Club to host guest speakers All are invited to join Del Mar Seacoast Republican Women Club for its Wednesday, Sept. 23 membership luncheon, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., featuring three speakers.The first guest, Michael Gates, a lifelong Californian and acclaimed litigation and trial attorney, is running for California State Attorney General. He successfully served 10 years as city attorney for Huntington Beach, a news release stated.Following Gates is Shirley Nakawatase. A financial expert with four decades experience, she is a candidate for the San Diego treasurer/tax collector role. Wrapping up the line-up is Richard Bailey, candidate for San Diego City Council, District #2, who served twice as mayor of Coronado from 2016-2024; during his tenure, Coronado maintained zero city debt and a AAA rating, the news release stated.The event will be held at Lomas Santa Fe Country Club, 1505 Lomas Santa Fe Dr., Solana Beach.RSVP at www.delmarseacoastclub.com by Sept. 19.Presentation and lunch: Members $40 Non-members $45. North County Republican Women's group hosts speaker The North County Republican Women will hold a breakfast meeting at 9:30 a.m. on Sept. 16 at LaValle Coastal Club, 5690 Cancha de Golf in Rancho Santa Fe. Alicia Shuman from Educational Excellence will speak about the upcoming School Board election. Doors open at 9:15 a.m. Cost is $30; $25 for members. RSVP by Sept. 11 at www.ncrwsd.org. Rotary Club of Del Mar to hold 'Making Waves That Impact – A Sunset Luau' event Rotary Club of Del Mar will host 'Making Waves That Impact – A Sunset Luau' on Friday, Sept. 25, from 5 p.m.-9 p.m. at Powerhouse Park in Del Mar. The evening will bring together members of the community for a coastal sunset celebration featuring an authentic Hawaiian luau catered by Islanders Luau, hula entertainment, live and silent auctions, and a signature welcome cocktail, a news release stated. The event will raise funds for organizations and programs making a meaningful difference locally and internationally, including Workshop for Warriors; Boys & Girls Clubs of Northwest San Diego; Feeding San Diego; Guatemala Literacy Project; and local community and youth initiatives. These programs support veterans, young people, families experiencing food insecurity, education, healthcare, and other important community needs, the news release stated. For more information on the event and tickets go to: delmarrotary.org Powerhouse Park is located at 1658 Coast Blvd., Del Mar. Skate Jam returns to the PHR Pump Track Skate with a cop at the San Diego Police Department's Skate Jam on Saturday, Sept. 12 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Pacific Highlands Ranch Pump Track. The event will include giveaways, prizes, barbecue hot dogs, a meet and greet with San Diego Police Department volunteers, photo ops with Skateboard Hall of Famers and officers, patrol cars, a four-person relay race and a fastest lap contest. The event is held in collaboration with the San Diego Parks and Recreation Department and sponsors Bimbo, 7-Eleven, Target, RuffCase Wireless, the La Costa Racing Team and the Coastline Classic Longboard Dancing Competition. The pump track is located at Pacific Highlands Ranch Community Park at 5977 Village Center Loop Road, Carmel Valley. Coffee in the Courtyard Calvary Lutheran Church hosts Coffee in the Courtyard at 11 a.m. Sundays in the church's courtyard, 424 Via de la Valle. The community is invited to come for hot coffee, fresh pastries and camaraderie. Visit calvarylutheranchurch.org. Rancho Coastal Humane Society to hold 'Celebration of Second Chances' event Rancho Coastal Humane Society invites the community to buy tickets now for the 2026 'Celebration of Second Chances: The Next Chapter,' which will take place on Saturday, Sept. 19 at 5 p.m. at the Del Mar Country Club at 6001 Clubhouse Drive in Rancho Santa Fe. At the Celebration of Second Chances, guests will be treated to elevated food stations, cocktails, inspiring stories, exciting auction items, and more. A special tribute will also be held to honor Rancho Coastal Humane Society's longtime friends and animal advocates Jerry and Pam Cesak. 'This is one of our signature events of the year and with every ticket purchased you are providing rescue, comfort and care to abandoned companion animals, and supporting the many programs designed to keep pets healthy, happy and together with their families,' said Judi Sanzo, president and CEO of Rancho Coastal Humane Society, in the news release. Tickets are available now at SDPets.org/Gala2026 or call 760-519-8721. Del Mar Wine & Food Festival The Del Mar Wine & Food Festival (DMWFF), benefiting Feeding San Diego, returns Sept. 30–Oct. 4 with a packed lineup of celebrity chefs, acclaimed winemakers, professional athletes and new events that showcase why DMWFF has quickly become one of Southern California's most dynamic food and cultural weekends.Co-founded by sports icons Alex Morgan, Drew Brees and Rob Machado with Food Network host Troy Johnson, DMWFF was built around San Diego's unique collision of food, drink and active culture. The festival spans eight events.For the full schedule, tickets and more information, go to: delmar.wine Surfer's Point LIVE Pop-Up Concert Series CBF Productions recently announced the launch of Surfer's Point LIVE at the Del Mar Fairgrounds, bringing a pop-up outdoor concert series to San Diego County this fall with three major live music events featuring nationally recognized artists, according to a news release.Each event is designed as a limited-time destination where fans can enjoy world-class live music, great local food and drinks, and the unmistakable energy of the California lifestyle, the news release stated.The inaugural Del Mar series kicks off on Thursday, Sept. 24, with Rock & Roll Hall of Fame legends Lynyrd Skynyrd joined by special guests Loverboy.The series continues on Friday, Oct. 2, as the award-winning Boots & Brews Country Music Festival makes its Del Mar debut featuring Billy Currington and Dylan Scott.A third headline concert will be announced in the coming weeks, completing the inaugural Surfer's Point LIVE season at the Del Mar Fairgrounds.All concerts will take place in the Del Mar Arena.For tickets and additional information, visit www.surferspointlive.com. Thoroughbred Club topic at luncheon St. Peter's Episcopal Church hosts its monthly Community Lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sept. 15 in the Parish Hall, 334 14th St. The catered lunch will be followed by a presentation on 'The History of the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club,' led by local historian Larry Brooks. Suggested donation is $20. Reserve at 858-755-1616 or office@stpetersdelmar.net. 'Art and Wine in the Garden' Rancho Santa Fe residents will be among those participating in the 'Art and Wine in the Garden' event on Saturday, Oct. 3, from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. at 1230 Birmingham Dr. in Encinitas. The event will feature 14 San Diego artists, live music, food and wine. It is free and open to the public. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Oceanside Museum of Art's Youth Arts Education Programming. River Valley Fest 2026 celebrates Conservancy's 40th anniversary River Valley Fest 2026, an extra-special event to recognize San Dieguito River Valley Conservancy's 40th anniversary, will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. Oct. 11 at La Valle Coastal Club in Rancho Santa Fe. The evening includes a silent auction, seated dinner, program and live auction. Attendees will raise glasses to celebrate four decades' worth of conservation, education and recreation. For tickets, go to www.sdrvc.org 17th Annual 100 Wave Challenge to support San Diego boys Boys to Men Mentoring (B2M) will bring together surfers from across Southern California for the 17th Annual 100 Wave Challenge on Saturday, Sept. 26, at Mission Beach, with legendary professional surfers Shaun Tomson and Damien Hobgood returning to the lineup in support of B2M's mission. Created by B2M Co-founder Joe Sigurdson in 2009, the 100 Wave Challenge dares participants to catch 100 waves in a single day while raising critical funds to provide teenage boys with consistent mentors, connection, and safe spaces to navigate the challenges of adolescence. Surfers, sponsors and supporters can register, donate or learn more at 100Wave.org. To learn more about Boys to Men go to BoysToMen.org. 2026 Solutions for Change Boots & Bling Gala An evening filled with music, dancing, spirited bidding and powerful stories of lives transformed awaits guests at the 2026 Solutions for Change Boots & Bling Gala on Saturday, Sept. 19, beginning at 5 p.m. at the California Center for the Arts, Escondido. Guests are invited to embrace the Boots & Bling spirit and enjoy a lively night that combines celebration with meaningful community impact. The gala will feature a delicious plated dinner, live music, line dancing and exclusive silent and live auctions offering guests opportunities to bid on memorable items and experiences, according to a news release.Throughout the evening, guests will also hear directly from families whose lives have been transformed through Solutions for Change and receive an inside look at the organization's plans for expanding its impact. The program will celebrate the courage and accomplishments of parents working to permanently overcome homelessness, rebuild their lives and create brighter futures for their children. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are now available. For complete event details, tickets and information about becoming a sponsor, visit shorturl.at/bggi4 Annual Cardiff Greek Festival The 46th annual Cardiff Greek Festival is from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Sept. 12 and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Sept. 13 at Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church, 3459 Manchester Ave. The event features folk dance shows, live Greek music, dancing, authentic Greek food and pastries along with Greek wine tastings and a marketplace. There will be a Kids Zone and tours of the church. Chance tickets are $20 each for a chance to win $10,000 or $5,000. Admission is $4; free for children under age 12 and first responders, veterans and active military with ID. Visit cardiffgreekfestival.com. Fall Art & Wine Walk The Forum Carlsbad will host its annual Fall Art & Wine Walk from 2 to 5 p.m. on Sept. 12, featuring art, wine and live music. Artwork will be displayed in participating shops and restaurants and there will be wine tastings at the Wine Garden. Donations will be accepted at the Wine Garden to benefit Shelter to Soldier, a local nonprofit that trains shelter dogs to become service dogs for post-9/11 veterans with PTSD and related injuries. Junior surf contest open for youth The nonprofit Windansea Surf Club is accepting registration for its annual junior surf contest, The Menehune, slated for Oct. 3 at the La Jolla Shores. Long board and short board divisions are offered for boys and girls 16 years of age and under, including the Super Menehunes for 7-year-olds and under. The event attracts young competitive surfers and their families from throughout the western states, Hawaii and Baja California. The club plans to award $250 educational scholarships to the top eight age group divisions for Boys and Girls. Registration deadline is Sept. 25. Visit windanseasurfclub.org. 9/11 Heroes Run The 9/11 Heroes Run takes off at 9 a.m. on Sept. 13 at NTC Park at Liberty Station, 2670 Cushing Road, hosted by the Travis Manion Foundation. The 5K run welcomes runners and walkers of all ages and fitness levels to commemorate the 25th anniversary of 9/11 and honor the 'heroes who stepped up to serve that day and in the wars that followed.' Visit travismanion.org/events/911-heroes-run/2026-san-diego-911-heroes-run. 25th Anniversary Memorial of 9/11 A 25th Anniversary Memorial of 9/11 is at 2:30 p.m. Sept. 11 on the flight deck aboard the USS Midway Museum, 910 N Harbor Drive. There will be free museum entry from 1:45 to 3 p.m. to attend the ceremony. On this 25th anniversary of the terrorist attacks at the World Trade Center, the FDNY Retirees of San Diego, along with the USS Midway Museum, San Diego Fire-Rescue Department, National City Fire Department, San Diego Firefighters Emerald Society and The Wounded Warrior Project, will pay tribute to the fallen heroes of 9/11 and keep the promise to 'Never Forget.' The event includes presentation of colors by honor guards, pipes and drums, singing of the national anthem, reading of first responder names and tolling of the bells along with a San Diego Fire-Rescue emergency helicopter flyover, a 21-gun salute, taps and a Harbor Police fire boat water display. Visit midway.org/event/25th-anniversary-memorial-of-september-11-2026. Cars & Coffee gathering Gillie's Auto Lounge, a private automotive club, is hosting a series of Cars & Coffee gatherings for car buffs to meet at 3341 Hancock San Diego. The BMW Club Cars & Coffee is from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Sept. 13 featuring a panel discussion and Q&A on BMW collecting trends, vehicle valuations and tips for buying and selling led by auction expert Kennan Rolsen. Free admission. Visit gilliesautolounge.com. The Village Church to celebrate 70 years in Rancho Santa Fe at event In 1956, Village Community Presbyterian Church opened its doors in Rancho Santa Fe. Seventy years later, the church is marking that milestone with a 70th Anniversary Celebration on Sept. 13 and everyone is invited, a news release states. 'Across the decades, The Village Church has been a home for faith, fellowship, and community, and we are so excited to gather and celebrate this historic occasion together,' said the Rev. Dr. Jack Baca, senior pastor, in the news release. The celebration begins Sunday, Sept. 13, at 10 a.m. with a special worship service featuring new music commissioned for the anniversary, followed by a celebratory luncheon in the Fellowship Center. The day will include a few surprises as the church honors its past and looks forward to its future. 'Whether you've been here for decades or are brand new to our church, we can't wait to celebrate with you,' said Baca in the news release, who has served the congregation for nearly 30 years.For more information go to: villagechurch.org/70th-celebration Chabad Jewish Center of Rancho Santa Fe to hold 2026 High Holiday Services and Community Rosh Hashana Dinner The Chabad Jewish Center of Rancho Santa Fe invites the entire community to celebrate the Jewish High Holidays with meaningful, traditional, and inspirational services in a warm and welcoming setting. Rosh Hashana, the Jewish New Year, begins this year on Friday evening, Sept. 11, and continues through Sunday, Sept. 13. Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, begins on Sunday evening, Sept. 20, and concludes on Monday, Sept. 21. The High Holiday services will combine traditional Jewish prayer, inspiring melodies, and a welcoming community atmosphere. Services are designed to be accessible to everyone, including those who may not regularly attend synagogue. No prior affiliation or membership is required, and all are welcome, a news release stated. A special Family High Holiday Service and Shofar Blowing will be offered for families with children, providing a meaningful and engaging way for younger members of the community to experience the spirit of the holidays. In addition to the services, the Chabad Jewish Center will host a gourmet Rosh Hashana dinner, bringing families and community members together to celebrate the New Year around the holiday table. 'Rosh Hashana is a time when we come together as a community to reflect on the year that has passed and look forward with hope and optimism to the year ahead,' said Rabbi Levi Raskin in the news release. 'Our goal is to create an experience where everyone feels welcome, connected, and inspired.' Advance reservations are required. Reservations for High Holiday services can be made at JewishRSF.com/rhyk, and reservations for the Rosh Hashana dinner are available at JewishRSF.com/dinner. Space may be limited. For the complete 2026 High Holiday schedule, reservations, and additional information, visit JewishRSF.com/rhyk or contact the Chabad Jewish Center of Rancho Santa Fe at 858-756-7571 or info@jewishrsf.com. Beach & Country Guild 57th Dia Del Sol The Beach & Country Guild will present the 57th Dia Del Sol, 'Wicked for Good', on Wednesday, Oct. 7, 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. at Park Hyatt Aviara in Carlsbad. Tickets are on sale now (early bird general admission is available until Sept. 12). For more information, visit www.beachandcountry.org for up-to-date information on Dia Del Sol or email reservations@beachandcountry.org with questions regarding the event.All proceeds from the event benefit United Cerebral Palsy of San Diego. Batiquitos Lagoon Annual Kayak Fundraiser & Cleanup Event The nonprofit Batiquitos Lagoon Foundation (BLF) recently announced the 20th Annual Kayak Fundraiser & Cleanup Event on Saturday, Oct. 3 and Sunday, Oct. 4. This event allows the public to enjoy kayaking waters normally closed to boating, while simultaneously aiding in preserving the lagoon habitat by removing trash. The cost is $160 per two-person tandem kayak and is a tax-deductible donation to BLF. Tickets are now on sale.There will be four launches on Saturday and three on Sunday. This two-hour experience includes check-in, personal flotation device (PFD) provisioning, water safety instructions and approximately 90 minutes kayaking the pristine waters of the ecological reserve.Children as young as six years old are welcome to participate if accompanied by a parent or guardian. Water safety guides will accompany each group to ensure that everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience.For more information, and to purchase tickets, visit www.batiquitoslagoon.org. Proceeds from the event will benefit BLF's ongoing habitat restoration and other projects. Encinitas Historical Society monthly walking tours The Encinitas Historical Society offers monthly walking tours of downtown Encinitas on the third Saturday of every month in 2026. The tours start at 10 a.m. leaving from the 1883 One-Room Schoolhouse located at 390 West 'F' Street. There is plenty of free parking nearby. On Sept. 19, the tour will cover the south end of Coastal Encinitas from 2nd and 3rd Streets to 'K.'The tour includes a nominal charge of $10 per person. Minor children and dogs are always free. The Encinitas Historical Society is an all volunteer organization with tax exempt status and it accepts all forms of payment. You may contact the Historical Society at 760-942-9066 or info@encinitashistoricalsociety.org with any questions. Plant with Purpose puts on annual gala Local nonprofit Plant with Purpose will hold its Planting Hope Gala at 5:30 p.m. Sept. 19 at Hyatt Regency LaJolla Aventine, 3777 La Jolla Village Drive. The event will highlight the nonprofit's global community development and ecosystem restoration programs in countries around the world. Its mission is to 'reverse rural poverty, restore watersheds and renew hope, rooted in faith.' The international work is locally led, with global offices running both as independent agencies within their country and alliance partners with Plant With Purpose U.S., which supports their work. Tickets are $195. Reservation deadline is Sept. 5. Visit plantwithpurpose.org/planting-hope-gala.