Celebrate Memorial Day in San Diego at one of these seven top destinations.
By Lisa Kelley
America’s Finest City is the king of exceptions. San Diego has exceptionally beautiful sunny weather at 75 degrees about 90% of the year, locals break fashion rules and wear white jeans and sandals year-round and there’s really no distinction between seasons. However, San Diego loves to celebrate, and a three-day weekend is no exception. In true Southern California style, we’ve rounded up seven ways you can join the party and celebrate Memorial Day in San Diego.
Sing, Dance, Crawl
May 28. Join The Local Downtown for the ultimate Memorial Day patriotic pub crawl with no covers, no lines and no expensive drinks. Participants are encouraged to dress in their best red, white and blue, then experience the party at Parq, Bassmnt and House of Blues. $40/pp. 1065 4th Ave., downtown, 619.231.4447. thelocalsandiego.com
SummerSalt Memorial Day Pig Roast
May 28. Summer is in full spring with the popular SummerSalt pig roast for Memorial Day weekend in San Diego. Attendees will enjoy slow-roasted pig and comfort sides poolside, with drink specials available as well. $15/pp. 4-7 p.m. Hotel Palomar, 1047 5th Ave., downtown. summersaltpigroast.bpt.me
USS Midway Legacy Week & American Freedom Festival San Diego
May 28. Enjoy a free, family-friendly event honoring the “Greatest Generation,” with a flyover, veteran speaker and biodegradable commemorative wreathes. That evening, Kaplan University presents the 7th annual American Freedom Festival aboard the flight deck of the USS Midway. Enjoy performances by World Class Rockers, featuring former members of Journey, Santana, Boston and others, performing classic rock hits. Tickets available for purchase on the website. 7:30-10 p.m. 910 North Harbor Dr., San Diego Marina. midway.org
Rooftop Pool Party
May 29. Take in the views of America’s Finest City this Memorial Day as Rooftop600 at Andaz kicks off its Summer Pool Party Series. Enjoy beats from DJ Cherokee, giant inflatables, refreshing cocktails and panoramic views of downtown. 1-7 p.m. 600 F St., downtown, 619.849.1234. rooftop600.com
Pier Pressure Memorial Day Yacht Party
May 29. Take the party to the water aboard a Hornblower yacht, featuring three decks, six DJs, beautiful views and delicious cocktails. 3:30-7:30 p.m. 1800 North Harbor Dr., San Diego Marina, 619.330.9430. eventbrite.com
My Life Every Day USA
May 28-29. This sold-out event is a two-day party featuring a mix of DJs including Dillon Francis, Zeds Dead, Aryay, Bassjackers, Brazzaville, Cash Cash and more, from 9 p.m.-4 a.m. both Saturday and Sunday. Valley View Casino Center, 3500 Sports Arena Blvd., Midway District. myledusa.com
Swinging Sixties Pool Party at The Pearl
May 30. Finish the long weekend at The Pearl. Mondays are reserved for tasty noshes, bottomless mimosas, craft cocktails, bartender challenges and all kinds of poolside fun, set to the beats of a groovy DJ and swinging sixties theme. 1410 Rosecrans St., Point Loma, 619.226.6100. thepearlsd.com