SD Wine & Food Fest 2026: NEW EVENTS JUST ADDED

The San Diego Food and Wine Fest 2026 is shaping up to be bigger and better than ever. Of course there’s the Grand Tasting, the main event held on Nov 7th where you’ll find unlimited gourmet bites and premium wines. And the Grand Fiesta, once a bit of a tag on event at Liberty Station, goes big time this year sharing the same bay view location as the Grand Tasting and held in the same location.

But prior to the big weekend are a number of incredible culinary events. Here’s the latest rundown of this years events at the San Diego Food and Wine Fest.

---

NEWLY ADDED EVENTS FOR THE SAN DIEGO FOOD AND WINE FESTIVAL 2026

Día de Muertos Gala at Fairmont Grand Del Mar

A spectacular evening of cuisine, culture and celebration honoring José Andrés.

Oyster Jam Presented by Southwest Rapid Rewards® Credit Cards - Coming soon!

Fariyal Abdullahi, Joe Sasto, Jason McLeod + Marcus Twilegar serve up local seafood, oysters, Champagne and caviar.

The Chino Farm Legacy Dinner

Local legends, national culinary icons + Napa winemakers celebrate 80 years of Chino Farm.

Baja Culinary Expedition

Go behind the scenes in Valle for rare access to reserve wines, acclaimed chefs and legendary winemakers.

Romesco Mexiterranean Bistro 20th Anniversary Dinner

Javier Plascencia gathers an all-star cast of chef friends for a one-night-only 20th anniversary feast.

Bevan Cellars Wine Lunch at Mister A’s

Five courses, skyline views + extraordinary wines from a Napa cult favorite with 40+ perfect scores.

Passion + Favorites: An Unconventional Dinner by the Chefkateers

Three longtime chef friends cook the dishes, ingredients and wonderfully eccentric ideas they love most.

San Diego Food + Wine Festival OR Del Mar Wine & Food Festival: Which is BETTER?

It’s 2026 and I have to keep it real. In the past if someone asked me which was better, the original San Diego Food and Wine Fest or the newcomer Del Mar Wine and Food Festival I would say “do both”. Go celebrate life, go have fun, that’s what I would say.

But hey, wow, basic things like gas and food have gotten expensive this year, making doing both seem a bit too extravagant I don’t know what’s causing it (well, maybe I do) but bottom line is it’s time to choose and I’m here to tell you which one IS the best. No fluff, no double talk or ambiguity, I’m going back to my Local Wally roots and will tell it like it is.

The crowd scene at San Diego Food + Wine Fest

The HONEST TRUTH: SAN DIEGO OR DEL MAR, WHICH IS BETTER?

Between the two big wine and food festivals the one that I would pick if I could only pick one would be the San Diego Food + Wine Festival. They’re the original and while Del Mar is a strong contender there’s something about being on the bay at the OG festival that makes it hard to beat. Here’s the breakdown:

EVENT LOCATION: San Diego for the win with the location right on the bay. It feels so special, it makes you so happy you live in San Diego. The vibe, the people, it’s a total win. Del Mar is at the old polo fields and while it’s more spread out it’s less festive.

FOOD QUALITY: This one varies. After Covid the San Diego Food + Wine Festival definitely took a hit and Del Mar jumped in and frankly knocked them out. But last year San Diego took back the crown with and incredible comeback. Honestly you won’t be disappointed with either. Don’t let the food be a deciding factor.

VIP TENTS: San Diego Food + Wine Fest does their VIP tent right with ultra premium foods and wines, a live band, it feels like a great party. Del Mar’s VIP tent has been a bit “more of the same”, just another area with more food options but not essential. San Diego wins this one.

PEOPLE WATCHING AND THE VIBE: San Diego wins again. After filling up on too many gourmet bites and perhaps one too many sips of wine, you’ll find me chilling on the lawn and watching the crowds go by. It’s premium people watching, especially towards the end of the event (iykyk).

TRANSPORTATION AND PARKING: While Del Mar has a ton of parking I’m just going to say it - you shouldn’t be driving after an event like this. Just like I tell my readers at NapaTouristGuide.com there’s just no way you’re not going to drink too much, especially when there are unlimited good wines being poured.

The giant parking lot at Del Mar for me is too big of a temptation and their uber pick up and drop off is a hassle. The San Diego event on the other hand is at the huge grassy area behind Seaport Village so parking can be challenging and expensive, basically forcing you to take an Uber or the Trolley or Coaster. It’s not only convenient but removes the DUI temptation.

Search for the hidden speakeasy - it’s worth the effort!

And there are more food adventures leading up the the event and the NEW Grand Fiesta, this year being held at the same San Diego Bay location (not Liberty Station as it’s been at for years). Here’s a breakdown for all of the events for 2026.

So there you go, Local Wally recommends the San Diego Food + Wine Festival for 2026 if you can only go to one. Now look, the Del Mar event is still a great event so don’t misread this. But if you must pick just one, do the San Diego Food + Wine Fest.

San Diego's BEST Dog Rescue? Animal Lives Matter Always, or ALMA, Rises to the Top

AT A GLANCE….

ALMA, which stands for Animal Lives Matter Always, is a dog rescue charity and a great alternative to puppy mills and dog breeders. Getting a dog from them saves a dog from the streets and gives them a chance to live their best lives.

See their current photos of pups ready for adoption here.

OFFICIAL SITE FOR ALMA

If you know me then you know I’m a huge animal lover. Animals all seem to gravitate towards me (is it the treats in my pocket?). So when my dog of nearly 13 years died a few years ago I was devastated. In my search for a new pup I ran across ALMA at an adoption event and learned of the great work they are doing to save dogs and get them placed into homes.

Erin Riley-Carrasco and Suzie Williamson, the people who dreamed up ALMA, are passionate about saving dogs. So many stray dogs roam the streets of Mexico, dogs who can never dream of car rides, days at the beach, or even basics like a clean bed and safe environment. ALMA rescues these dogs, rehabilitates them, and connects them with fosters and dog lovers.

And as they say, that’s not all! ALMA has medically vetted and found Forever Homes for over 1,000 dogs & cats in the past 7 years AND sterilized over 7,200 animals through their free Spay and Neuter Clinics to help poor communities sterilize their pets, helping to slow the cycle of more unwanted pets. If you are looking for a new pup or dog make sure you check out the options at ALMA. They are doing good work and their dogs deserve a second chance.

COPING WITH THE LOSS OF A PET

If you have a friend or know of someone who has recently lost a pet there’s no better way to honor their memory than with a donation to ALMA. I did this recently and Erin wrote a nice card and mailed it telling them of the donation made in their pets name. Not an e-card, not an email, but an actual card with an actual handwritten note. Email Erin if this applies. I find this very touching and it’s a good way to not only honor the pet but help other dogs in need.

There are a lot of very good rescue dog organizations in San Diego. All of them need our help but please give ALMA a try. Really good people, very passionate about animals, and they can use your help and support. They certainly warrant consideration as San Diego’s BEST dog rescue.

Thanks,

Local Wally

CLICK THE PHOTO TO SEE THE CURRENTLY AVAILABLE DOGS READY FOR ADOPTION!

San Diego Food + Wine Festival's TACO GRAND FIESTA New Location 2026

The Grand Fiesta is the unforgettable finale of the San Diego Food + Wine Festival! Immerse yourself in a vibrant celebration of the rich cross-border culinary and cultural influence of Latin America on Southern California, featuring award-winning chefs creating world class cuisine, exceptional wines, craft beer, traditional and unique spirits of Mexico, and breathtaking, larger-than-life art installations.

NEW LOCATION: Pay attention fans of The Grand Fiesta. In 2026 the event will no longer be held at Liberty Station but rather at the SAME LOCATION as The Grand Tasting right on the bay in the area behind Seaport Village. I suspect the event will be bigger and better than ever in 2026 so get some friends together and get your tickets early.

 Stroll through the park filled with engaging experiences, savoring expertly crafted dishes from top chefs across San Diego, Southern California, and Baja. Enjoy captivating live music, engage in cultural conversations, and attend demonstrations that delve into the fascinating world of Mexican spirits and traditional culinary dishes.

DEL MAR THOROUGHBRED CLUB 2026 SCHEDULE OF SPECIAL EVENTS

San Diego's unofficial start to summer arrives on Friday, July 17, as the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club initiates its highly anticipated 2026 summer racing season. Running through Monday, Sept. 7, the 87th summer meet blends world-class Thoroughbred racing with beloved traditions, elevated dining experiences, exciting new attractions and unforgettable seaside celebrations. See below for the first two weeks of the summer season:

• Opening Day presented by Caesars Sportsbook – (Friday, July 17) SoCal’s biggest party is here! Del Mar's iconic summer celebration returns with the Opening Day Hats Contest, and The Party presented by Pacifico, a high-energy trackside experience featuring live DJs, specialty cocktails and more. New for 2026, the Seabiscuit Society VIP Party debuts in the Grandstand's sixth-floor Skyroom, offering premium hospitality and curated cuisine. 

• Tacos & Tequila Festival – (Saturday, July 18) As a fan-favorite tradition, Tacos & Tequila Fest features San Diego’s best taco vendors, frozen margaritas, refreshing cervezas and more. This event is 21+. 

• Taste of the Turf Club – (Every Sunday - Starting July 19) Del Mar’s signature Sunday brunch experience returns with a refreshed menu curated by Chef Bryn McArthur, the Executive Chef of Amaya at Fairmont Grand Del Mar. Guests can enjoy elevated offerings such as Grilled Lamb Lollipops, Blueberry Lemon Cornbread, Jidori Chicken & Waffles, handcrafted cocktails and more, all while taking in panoramic racetrack views from the Turf Club. Dress code applies!

• POP-Up Sundays – (Every Sunday - Starting July 19) Plaza de Mexico will showcase a rotating lineup of beloved San Diego restaurants serving local flavors throughout the afternoon. 

• July 19: Brandt Beef, BBQ Smoked Brisket

• July 26: North Italia

• Free & Easy Thursdays – (Every Thursday - Starting July 23)  A promotion for Del Mar’s Diamond Club members, enjoy complimentary general admission and seating andspecial concession offers including $5 Michelob ULTRA drafts, Brandt Beef hot dogs and refillable sodas at select locations. 

• Turf Club Fridays – (Every Friday - Starting July 24) Start your weekend in style with Turf Club Fridays, a weekly elevated happy hour experience in one of the racetrack’s most exclusive settings. Attendees can enjoy curated appetizers, handcrafted cocktails and beautiful views of the track. Dress code applies!

• Earlier Friday Post Times & Friday Happy Hour – (Every Friday - Starting July 24) This year, Fridays at Del Mar get a new look for 2026 with a 2 p.m. first race time to align with the rest of the racing week. TFriday Happy Hour runs until 4 p.m., offering 25% off all signature cocktails and select beers! 

• New Family Fun Day – (Sunday, July 26) Del Mar’s Family Fun Day is back and earlier than ever! This family-centric trackside event features free kids' games, face painting, inflatable attractions and activities alongside a day full of exciting racing. Kiddos 17 and under receive free admission! 

First post daily (now including Fridays!) is 2 p.m. until Sept. 5, when first post moves to 1:30 p.m. For more information, call 858-755-1141 or visit www.dmtc.com. You can follow Del Mar on Instagram and Twitter at @delmarracing or on Facebook @DelMarRaces.

Snorkel with Sharks! Not Crazy, You Can Do This!

Birch Aquarium Takes You on a Shark Snorkel - Tickets on Sale August 1st, 2026, Snorkels in September

La Jolla, CA (July 7, 2026)—Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego is thrilled to announce the return of popular Shark Snorkels this September! Join Birch Aquarium Educators for a guided snorkeling experience to get an up-close look at local sharks and rays along with other fascinating species found in our local waters. Plus learn responsible snorkeling skills as you explore the shallow waterways around La Jolla.

During this 2-hour experience, which has not been offered by the aquarium since 2019, guests will learn about Leopard Sharks, one of the most common sharks along the coast of California and vital members of the ocean ecosystem. These sharks are known for their distinctive saddle pattern along their back and for aggregating in large numbers — each summer, hundreds of pregnant females migrate to the shallow waters of San Diego to incubate in the warmer temperatures. During Shark Snorkels, guests will discover more about the role these sharks play in their environment and the conservation work being done to protect them, all while exploring their local habitat.

“Although the ocean is in our backyard, it may seem daunting to take the first steps beyond the waves,” said Matthew Arrollado, Public Programs Coordinator. “This program is an amazing opportunity to learn about and see some of La Jolla’s unique wildlife with an expert guide. Shark education and conservation are also critical for ocean health, so being able to share information about our local critters, including the docile Leopard Sharks, is such a privilege.”

Tickets for Shark Snorkels go on sale August 1. Intermediate swimming ability is required and previous snorkeling experience is recommended. Participants must supply their own gear including masks, fins and snorkels. Ages 10+ (minors must be accompanied by a paid adult). Shark Snorkels are $35 for aquarium members and $40 for the general public. 

Portland UTI Clinic Opens - a New Era in Women's Health

Wait, what does a UTI Clinic in Portland has to do with Local Wally and San Diego?

Well the connection is easy - the clinic is a owned and operated by my daughter and her associate who broke away from the traditional “here’s your antibiotics, next in line please” to something a bit more personal, focusing instead on finding underlying issues and more specific and individualized solutions for women’s health.

Traditional healthcare often has generic solutions that don’t get to the root causes. Doctors are rushed, patients are pushed through, and issues reoccur because they’re never really resolved. Not so with The UTI Clinic which offers personal attention and real solutions for women’s health issues.

The UTI Clinic

721 NW 9th Ave, Suite 100 | Portland, OR 97209 | Tel: 503.308.8634

hello@theuticlinic.org

Seeing patients in-clinic and California patients via TeleHealth - call for more information.

We’re not just changing the treatment —we reimagined the entire experience.

Welcome to a new clinic. A new standard of care. At The UTI Clinic, we combine advanced diagnostics with real listening. Whether you need help with symptoms today or answers for what keeps coming back, we treat urinary tract infections at the root—through metabolic healing, clinical precision, and care that actually feels human. Because women deserve more than short-term fixes. She deserves to be heard. To be healed. To be whole.

Help us spread the word on The UTI Clinic!

If you’re a Local Wally fan then I appreciate you telling everyone you know about The UTI Clinic. They offer both in-person and remote telemedicine appointments. And of course if you need help or have questions just reach out to them. And finally, please watch the video to help push it in the YouTube algorithm so that it’s seen by as many people as possible. Thanks so much - your pal, Local Wally.

San Diego BIG BAY BOOM Fireworks 2026 at the Rady Shell Symphony Concert!

THE RADY SHELL 4TH OF JULY CONCERT & THE BIG BAY BOOM FIREWORKS 2026 - COME FOR THE SHOW, STAY FOR THE FIREWORKS!

---

4th of JULY, 2026: RADY SHELL AND THE BIG BAY BOOM FIREWORKS!

Byron Stripling’s America The Beautiful: 250 brings the sound of our nation to life with powerful works that reflect the beauty, complexity, and spirit of America – past, present, and future. Featuring beloved classics like “Puttin’ on the Ritz,” “Yankee Doodle Dandy,” and the triumphant “Stars and Stripes Forever,” this celebratory program traces the musical moments that have defined the American story.

Celebrate 250 years of America this Fourth of July the best way we know how: at your favorite waterfront venue, with your beloved San Diego Symphony Orchestra, capped off with a premium view of San Diego’s iconic fireworks spectacular, the Big Bay Boom, immediately following the concert.

Event: America The Beautiful: 250 with the San Diego Symphony Orchestra.

• Time: Concert starts at 7:30 PM.

• Activities: Enjoy live, patriotic orchestral performances followed immediately by a front-row view of San Diego's famous Big Bay Boom fireworks over the bay.

PRO TIP: Parking will be a mess so take the trolley. Arrive early ad enjoy the food and cocktails at the Rady Shell venue - it’s great! If you are sitting in the grassy open lawn area you can bring in a low beach chair and blanket.

Local Wally’s Tips and Tickets for the Carlsbad Flower Fields 2026

Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting the Carlsbad Flower Fields

• Runs March 1st - May 10th, 2026

• Classic San Diego experience loved by locals as well as visitors - Not a tourist trap!

• Acres of flower blooms looks like a scene from the Wizard of Oz - perfect IG backdrop!

• Butterflies, tractor rides, sluice mining, sculpture gardens, U-Pick Blueberries, and specialty food options.

• PRO TIP: You must buy tickets ONLINE - no tickets sold at entrance.

---

If the world today seems a bit, well, chaotic, then how about chilling out with a classic San Diego activity that’s certain to put a big smile on your face? That’s right, it’s time for the flower fields in Carlsbad to hit their stride with acres and acres of eye popping color. How many flowers? How about 80 million? Is that enough for you?

The flowering season lasts 10 weeks and at its peak boasts 55 acres of ranunculus blooms. 2026 is shaping up to be the best year ever with a super bloom predicted due to our dry winter and recent rains meaning that even on Day 1 of the season you can expect incredible blooms. As the season wears on the sunflower fields pop, typically in April, making the season pass ticket a worthwhile purchase if you just can’t get enough.

PRO TIP: Expect the largest crowds on the weekend so a weekday visit is a good strategy. Come early and have the fields nearly to yourself.

So Many Food Options… and U-Pick-Em Blueberries too!

If all of this walking and photo snapping is making you hungry don’t worry as there are plenty of snack options with two food trucks serving tacos and pizza as well as lots of snack and drink options. There also are special food vendor pop ups throughout the season - check the official site for their schedules.

PRO TIP: Speaking as an experienced parent if you need a distraction from the cotton candy and ice cream head over to the 6 acre U-Pick-Em Blueberry patch where you can pick your own for only $8 a pint. Fresh blueberries are so much better than the supermarket variety that the kids will forget all about the kettle corn, at least for a moment. Pro Tip 2: Get the kettle corn anyway. You’ll thank me later.

---

BUTTERFLIES AND TRACTORS

With hundreds of butterflies and a stick of nectar to attract them, the Butterfly Encounter is certain to amaze and enthrall everyone, from toddlers to grand parents. There’s just something magical and oddly enchanting about butterflies landing on your hair and following you like you are like Mary Poppins (I know, she had birds fluttering around her but you get the idea). They do something similar at the San Diego Safari Park but it’s quite expensive so get your butterfly fix at The Flower Fields. Tickets are free for those under 3, $4 for kids and $8 for adults - you can purchase them when you arrive.

And for those looking for a unique way to experience the Flower Fields there’s a Tractor Wagon Ride that takes you up and down the fields. It’s perfect for when the kids have had enough of walking but you still want to see more flowers and a great way for those in wheelchairs or just walking impaired to get the full experience.

Tickets are free for those under 3, $4 for kids and $8 for adults - you can purchase them when you arrive.

---

Are the Flower Fields “worth it”?

I’ve read the comments on Reddit and FB from long time locals who remember when visiting the Flower Fields was free, a hidden gem local attraction. Well that was a long, long time ago - 25 years? And yes, free was nice but back then the Flower Fields were just that - a field of flowers that were grown as a crop for the bulbs. There were no butterflies, no exhibits, no tractor ride, you get the idea.

A standard adult ticket is $27, a child ticket is $17, pretty reasonable for an afternoon of family time. You can even bring in your own picnic lunch which saves a few bucks. And yes, there are senior and military discounts - see below. The butterfly exhibit alone makes it worth it - $8 for adults, $4 for kids, free for those under 3. Compare that to the butterfly exhibit at the San Diego Safari Park where everyone over 1 pays an additional $18.

So is it worth it? Yes, absolutely worth it just for the photos. You won’t find a prettier backdrop for photos and there is something so San Diego about a visit to The Flower Fields.

FREQ ASKED Q’S

DO I NEED TO BUY TICKETS IN ADVANCE? Yes, buy them here online as no tickets are sold at the entrance. You must pick your time to enter but if you’re late they are very flexible.

ARE THERE TICKET DISCOUNTS? Yes, Seniors get $5 off on Thursdays, Children under 3 are Free, and every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday get one free child admission with each adult admission. Also, the first week the fields are open, March 1st -6th, offers additional discounted pricing.

HOW MUCH IS PARKING? Parking is free. Unbelievable, I know, but wow, free parking.

CAN I RENT A STROLLER OR WHEELCHAIR? No, bring your own.

HOW MUCH TIME SHOULD I ALLOT FOR A VISIT? You can see it all in about an hour but if you want to experience the butterflies and visit the gardens and exhibits you should plan on 2.5 hours or so. Four hours is about the max.

Complete Guide to the San Diego Food + Wine Festival 2026 - New Lower Prices for 2026

DATE: EVENT RUNS NOV 6-8, 2026 | GRAND TASTING NOV 7TH | GRAND FIESTA NOV 8TH

---

Day by Day at the San Diego Food + Wine Festival: THE BIG EVENTS - UPDATED FOR 2026

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

ICONS + LEGENDS: aka The Grand Decant

While there are various dinner events and excursions during the week leading up to Grand Events the real excitement begins at the ICONS + LEGENDS, previously known as the GRAND DECANT on Friday, Nov 7th, 2026. This evening event runs from 6:30PM to 9:00PM with early bird VIP tickets available for those wanting to get a 30 minute head start as well as other perks.

WHAT TO EXPECT: Held at the Julep Venue at 1735 Hancock, the event features the best wines offered, including limited release and rare bottles. There are also a number of gourmet food bites to pair with your wines, though in the past this event has been much more wine-centric versus a “food and wine” event.

WALLY’S EXPERIENCE AND TIPS: I went last year and was a bit concerned that this might be a snooty or dressy affair. Hey, I do my best but once I got there found that people came as they came so there’s no need to get dressed for a night out at the clubs. Yeah, I wore my Sketchers much to my more stylish wife’s disapproval. As for the wines, there were plenty of great wines to be had but food was more on the lighter side so we stopped at In N Out on the way home. In other words, don’t come un-hungry but don’t come starving either.

COST: General Admission is $210.

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

The Grand Tasting

This is the event most people think of when they think of the San Diego Food + Wine Festival. Held on Saturday, Nov. 7th, 2026 on the San Diego Bay, this event features rows and rows of wines, spirits, beer, and glorious bites of delicious food. The scene is lively and festive and the best day drinking party you can imagine. It’s fun super fun, and definitely hits the “worth it” box.

WHAT TO EXPECT: Considered one of the BEST wine and food festivals in the nation and it’s easy to see why. The setting on the bay is stunning, the food and wine stunnier, and everyone is having a great time. The VIP tent in the past has been well worth it but if 2025 has you checking your bank balance a bit more often you won’t be feeling left out with the standard general admission ticket.

WALLY’S EXPERIENCE AND TIPS: I really love this event - come super hungry because there is so much food that you’re going to want to try. I recommend you take the Coaster or Trolley in to avoid the parking madness and mad rush at the end. The Coaster drops you at the Santa Fe station which is about a 10 minute walk, not too bad, and the trolley drops you off at the Convention Center, even closer. You could also go from Coaster to Trolley.

COST: There are two ticket levels - General Admission is just $210, early bird entrance is $260, and the VIP tent is $360 The event is from 11 - 3 for VIPs, 12 to 3 for general admission.

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

The Grand Fiesta: New Location in 2026

Held on Sunday, Nov 8th, 2026 anticipation is high for this event. Once a bit of an afterthought, a casual event held at Liberty Station, in 2026 the event will be held at the same glorious location at The Grand Tasting on the bay. Now your unlimited tacos and Baja Wines will have a view to match the event.

WHAT TO EXPECT: Rows and rows of booths making tacos, all vying for the title of BEST TACO IN SAN DIEGO in the Taco TKO event.

WALLY’S EXPERIENCE AND TIPS: This is the event to treat your friends to, the best way to spend an Sunday afternoon. The tacos are so plentiful that there is no way you’re going to try them all so be selective and don’t just grab the first one you see. Plenty of room to spread out, enjoy the live music and sip a glass of wine or some tequila and savor the San Diego lifestyle, lucky you.

In the past the early entry was an unnecessary splurge as lines were short or non-existent but with the new location this might change in 2026. Still, and I’m being honest here, you can only eat so many tacos so I’d probably stick with the GA and I’m sure you’ll have a great time.

COST: General Admission is just $155, Early Entry is $205.