Events
“Fancy AF” NYE Bash at Marriott La Jolla
Dec. 30-Jan. 1. You’ll need a few disco naps to take on this total NYE takeover of the San Diego Marriott La Jolla. The property will be closed to the public (although you needn’t be a hotel guest to attend any of the festivities) for a series of sexy themed parties across two days, including: the “Electric White Party” on Dec. 30; “The Onesie Pre-Party” on Dec. 31; and the “Fancy As F**k” NYE main event—an over-the-top luxury bash in the Marriott’s grand ballroom, featuring notable DJs and a midnight balloon drop. 4240 La Jolla Village Drive, La Jolla. Tickets
Big Night San Diego NYE
Dec. 31. They had us at Mario Lopez (pictured). Big Night San Diego is back with its 20th-anniversary NYE celebration—one of the biggest in the city. Bring your I.D. but leave the wallet at home for this massive, all-inclusive fête unfolding at Hilton San Diego Bayfront. Highlights include eight party zones; six dance floors; bands and DJs performing all night; hosted drinks and cuisine, including a lavish buffet; party favors; and a special midnight countdown hosted by Lopez. See website for full details, ticket pricing and hotel room packages. 1 Park Blvd., downtown. bignightsandiego.com
“NYE 2023 at Tower23”
Dec. 31. For a more relaxed NYE celebration by the beach, Tower23 Hotel is your spot. The oceanfront property is hosting an evening of dancing and drinks, including DJ sets (9 p.m.-midnight) and a Champagne toast at midnight. Interested in dining prior? JRDN restaurant is offering a special four-course NYE dinner and optional wine pairings, with dishes such as truffle-mushroom ramen and miso Chilean seabass; seatings are 5:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. (reservations required). NYE party tickets are $30 presale; $40 day of event. 723 Felspar St., Pacific Beach, 858.270.2323. More Info
NYE Masquerade Gala at Hotel del Coronado
Dec. 31. Black tie attire is encouraged for this Victorian-era-style soiree at Hotel del Coronado’s new Southpointe Ballroom. Admission includes a reception-style dinner buffet with carving tables, seafood, desserts and more; an open bar; live entertainment throughout the evening, including masquerade performances and an aerialist; a live nine-piece band and DJ; a fireworks show on the beach (9:40 p.m.); and a Champagne toast at midnight. Tickets range from $390 per person for general admission; $5,000 for reserved VIP lounge seating for up to eight guests (21+). 1500 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.435.6611. hoteldel.com
NYE ‘90s House Party at Bivouac
Dec. 31. If a black-tie affair isn’t your speed this year, we suggest this laid-back shindig at Bivouac Ciderworks in North Park. Dust off your favorite ‘90s party outfit (think: big scrunchies, classic grunge looks and neon fanny packs) to match the evening’s music playlist of ‘90s chart toppers (requests welcome). Festivities include Jell-O shots; cider and jungle juice; ‘90s-themed props; giveaways like disposable cameras, oversized cell phones, mini trolls and ring pops; throwback snacks and small bites; and a cider toast at midnight. 8 p.m.-1 a.m. $20-$35. 3986 30th St., North Park. Tickets
Time Warp San Diego NYE
Dec. 31. This all-out affair at Encore Event Center & Film Studio is a fabulous time warp through several decades of music and fashion. The indoor/outdoor event comprises a dozen different themed parties in one —with 30 DJs spinning across 12 distinct musical areas; cover bands performing the best of the ‘80s, ‘90s and 2000s; a silent disco; late-night karaoke; aerialists, magicians and fire performers; a hosted bar, buffet and food trucks; and a party bus pickup and drop-off. Proceeds benefit local nonprofit It’s All About the Kids Foundation. 8 p.m.-4 a.m. See website for ticket pricing. 8253 Ronson Road, Kearny Mesa. More Info
Food + Drink
NYE Festivities at La Valencia Hotel
Dec. 31. The “Pink Lady” is ringing in 2023 (and closing out its 95th anniversary celebrations) with a couple festive NYE offerings. Stop by La Sala Lounge for live music and Champagne specials beginning at 9:15 p.m. (first come; first served). Or make reservations for a special five-course dinner by executive chef Fabian Aceves at the Mediterranean Room, with seating beginning at 5 p.m. Menu highlights include beef carpaccio, braised short ribs, seared scallops, a decadent cheese course and flourless chocolate cake. Dinner is $145 per person. 1132 Prospect St., La Jolla, 855.476.6870. lavalencia.com
New Year’s Day Brunch at Amaya
Jan. 1. Kick off the new year with a festive three-course brunch at Amaya Restaurant, located at the luxe Fairmont Grand Del Mar resort. Offerings include chia pudding, steel-cut oats, a Croque Madame dish, French Toast with bruleed banana and vanilla cream, eggs Benedict, prawn toast, beetroot “tataki” (vegan) and crème-fraiche cheesecake; along with bubbly and specialty holiday libations. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. $125 person. (Afterward, work off a few calories by “glice skating” at the property’s eco-friendly glice rink. $38 per adult; $19 per child.) 5300 Grand Del Mar Court, Del Mar, 858.314.2000. granddelmar.com
Arts + Culture
2 Pianos 4 Hands at North Coast Rep
Closes Jan. 1. Relieve some holiday stress with a good laugh and some great music. Hilarious duo Jefferson McDonald and Matthew McGloin are at North Coast Repertory Theatre to perform their musical comedy show: 2 Pianos 4 Hands. Written by Ted Dykstra and Richard Greenblatt and directed by Tom Frey, the show centers on the two gentlemen as they share stories and tickle the ivories—remarking on their would-be careers as concert pianists while playing everything from Billy Joel to Bach. See website for showtimes and tickets. 987 Lomas Santa Fe, Suite D, Solana Beach, 858.481.1055. northcoastrep.org
“Lightscape” at S.D. Botanic Garden
Extended Through Jan. 8. Go walking in a one-of-a-kind winter wonderland at San Diego Botanic Garden, which presents the internationally acclaimed show “Lightscape.” The garden’s 37 acres have been transformed into an illuminated, 1-mile walking trail—filled with artsy installations that come to life after dark. The experience also comprises more than one million holiday lights, tunnels, fire features and sculptures. (And wear comfy shoes, as the walking trails span some steep hills and uneven dirt pathways.) See website for all details and tickets. 300 Quail Gardens Drive, Encinitas, 760.436.3036. sdbg.org
Photo credits: La Valencia / La Sala Lounge by Marley Kepano. All other images are courtesy of the venues and businesses featured.
