Live music in San Diego, CA

Wander through every level of the museum, then make your way to the rooftop to watch the sun set over San Diego with a weekend kickoff cocktail. Pick up food from Wolf in the Woods and The Craft Taco. On certain dates, get creative at Sketchparty, test your knowledge in trivia, or unwind to music from a rooftop DJ. It offers a smooth start to the weekend. Admission is half price, and members and Balboa Park Explorers receive free entry. Tickets are available online or at the door.

This concert series on the deck highlights music across many genres. Guests can pair the performance with food and drinks from Topwater Grill while they listen.

That Beatles Cover Band brings a faithful Beatles experience to Allied Gardens First Fridays, spanning the catalog from early hits like Twist and Shout and Can’t Buy Me Love to ambitious studio creations such as Strawberry Fields Forever and Tomorrow Never Knows. The performance highlights the raw energy of the early years alongside the inventive sounds of the later period, all rendered with careful attention to the original recordings.

Sounds of the Square brings live music to the Clairemont Town Square Food Court for a relaxed evening of classic rock and surf favorites. Look for songs by The Beatles, The Beach Boys, Canned Heat, Dick Dale, The Doors, The Eagles, Fleetwood Mac, Jethro Tull, Jimi Hendrix, Joe Cocker, Pink Floyd, The Rolling Stones, Santana, Tom Petty, Traffic, The Ventures, The Zombies, and more. The band features Jackson Hines on keyboard and vocals, Travis Gooden on guitar and vocals, Chris Martinez on drums and vocals, Billy Jolt on bass and vocals, and Carly Hines on flute and vocals. Attendees are welcome to bring family, friends, and lawn chairs, and arriving early to pick up food from the center’s restaurants is a great way to settle in before the music starts.

Rat Pack Reborn brings a classic swing vibe back to Golden Island for the 264th edition of Dim Sum & Jazz, a beloved weekly pairing of live music and dining in San Diego. Led by vocalist and guitarist Jefferson Schildgen with Dan Bailey on piano, Fred Ubaldo on bass, and Josh Frontiero on drums, the group pays tribute to the rat pack era, performing favorites from the 1940s and 60s and honoring icons like Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin. Golden Island offers handmade dim sum all day, every day, along with a wide selection of authentic Asian dishes, and features a professional stage and sound system plus a ballroom style dance floor where dancing is welcome. Nationally touring artists and standout local jazz musicians regularly take the stage as part of this ongoing series.

A karaoke night at VFW Post 1512 Encanto offers singing along with food and drinks. Everyone is welcome, whether planning to perform or simply cheer from the crowd.

Enjoy a jetty-side party at Aquarius Bar and Grille as Gone Blonde delivers a lively blend of soul, R&B, rock and pop built for dancing. Expect crowd-pleasing favorites that keep the energy high, and bring those boogie shoes because the dance floor will be calling. A San Diego favorite for fun-time tunes, the band keeps the good vibes going from the first chord to the last.

Fleetwood MAX! takes the stage at SRT, Scripps Ranch Theater for its first appearance at this venue. Experience a debut show at this theater.

All ages are permitted to attend. Guests younger than 18 must be accompanied by a parent, guardian, or a responsible adult who is at least 25 years old and has written authorization. The schedule and any supporting performers may change. Parking is available in the structure across the street, and ticket purchases include validation for that garage, which can be redeemed at the venue. Ticket access includes a public onsale, Citi cardmember presale and preferred tickets, an artist presale, and a Live Nation presale.

At The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park, this high-energy concert salutes Disney and Pixar music from the 1980s and 1990s. Broadway veterans lead the evening with powerhouse vocals, arena-style lighting, and towering animation that fills the stage. The program journeys through songs and moments from Hercules, A Goofy Movie, Toy Story, The Little Mermaid, Newsies, Aladdin, The Lion King, Tarzan, Mulan, Beauty and the Beast, Pocahontas, and favorites from The Disney Afternoon. Featured performers include Jared Dixon, known for portraying Simba in The Lion King and Aaron Burr in Hamilton. Alyssa Fox brings credits as Elsa in Frozen and Elphaba in Wicked. Arielle Jacobs is celebrated for Jasmine in Aladdin and performances in Wicked and Here Lies Love. Josh Strickland originated Tarzan on Broadway and appeared on American Idol. Raena White adds roles such as Serabi in The Lion King and Mama Morton in Chicago.

Little Feat is performing live at Humphreys Concerts By the Bay. The show is scheduled to start in the evening.

Catch an evening of pop rock, alternative pop, and synth sounds at Music Box in San Diego. The lineup features The Strike along with Kids That Fly. The show starts at 8:00 PM.

Day We Ran and Still Blank are set to perform at Casbah in San Diego. The show starts at 8:30 PM.

Midday karaoke takes over The Brass Rail, hosted by Big Mike and Gerald. Expect a warm crowd, spirited performances, and encouragement for every genre, whether you want to sing or simply enjoy the show. The full bar is available, there is no cover, and it is easy to make a day of it with friends as you choose your favorite tracks and step up to the mic.

Celebrate the debut of a trot legend with fellow CARATs at a special cupsleeve event for SEVENTEEN. The gathering is focused on commemorating Pi Cheolin’s official debut as a trot idol, with a fun day planned for memories and good vibes.

Enjoy drinks and food surrounded by art and plenty of room to dance on the shaded patio at the Cosmopolitan Hotel. Live local swing music fills the air as part of the Old Town Summer Art Fair.

Live music takes center stage three days each week with a mix of solo performers, duos, and trios for every kind of listener. All performances are free and open to everyone, with no tickets required. Weekday happy hours are available at Yard House and NOVO Brazil Brewing. On Saturdays, a farmers market adds local vendors, fresh finds, and upbeat energy throughout the season.

Turn up the sparkle at The Brass Rail as Big Mike and Gerald lead a disco T-dance filled with timeless grooves and retro dance anthems. Expect go-go performers, a friendly floor where everyone can move, and an upbeat vibe from start to finish. There is no cover. Drink deals include $4 beers, $8 pitchers, and $6 well drinks.

Explore the San Diego Zoo after dark during its Nighttime Zoo, when the park shifts into a lively celebration with live music, pop and rock sets, interactive dance moments, acrobatic and cultural performances, wildlife themed entertainers and puppets, and a festive evening parade. Cooler temperatures often spark more animal activity, offering a fresh way to see the exhibits while catching special shows, enjoying a drink, or taking a sunset stroll through the grounds. The plan allows flexible arrival, and participants may wander separately and reconnect later. Tickets are available at a retail price of 78 dollars, with a group discount option of 65 dollars. Parking is 16 dollars per vehicle, with free parking available for those who carpool. Carpool spots are offered at 5 dollars per person. A 15 percent discount on in park food and beverages can be shared by the organizer. This gathering follows community guidelines that emphasize an inclusive, respectful environment and personal responsibility for safety. Disruptive or unsafe behavior is not permitted, and organizers and hosts are not liable for injuries, accidents, or incidents.

West Coast hip hop icons Too $hort and Warren G take the Bayside Amphitheater stage for a high‑energy salute to the sounds that defined the 90s. Too $hort brings his no‑holds‑barred style with staples like Blow the Whistle and The Ghetto, while Warren G delivers smooth G‑funk favorites including Regulate and This D.J. The performance is included with park admission. General seating is first come, first served and may reach capacity, so arrive early with your entire group because entry will close once the venue is full. Reserved seating upgrades offer prime views and a more premium experience, available while supplies last.

Band Overboard brings its Southern California yacht rock vibe back to Campland on the Bay for an evening of smooth sunset tunes. The performance is free and open to the public.

The Tower Bar hosts a night of live music with Carveliners featuring Brian from JFA, joined by Hamapple, Gizzards, and Jagged Lines. Admission is $10, and each paid entry includes a raffle ticket for a chance to win a framed, hand drawn original of the flyer.

Halo Effect brings a rocking Saturday night to OB at Northside Tavern.

Finnish pop sensation Rajaton teams up with the San Diego Symphony Orchestra for a celebration of Bee Gees classics and other disco favorites. Enjoy silky harmonies and dance-ready rhythms with hits like Night Fever, More Than a Woman, Nights on Broadway, Grease, and more. Pull out sequins and bell bottoms, and get set to move to the sounds of this iconic era.

Chris Mitchell Jazz delivers a nearly three-hour concert that blends his R&B style with selections from his broader catalog, pushing past conventional genre borders. The performance is shaped around the sounds of 90s and 2000s R&B, complemented by visual elements, appearances from special guests, and a lineup that includes classic hits. It also salutes the social media following behind the Begging For Sax series, bringing that online momentum to the stage in a full live experience.

Shandawg Productions presents a night at McGuffies featuring Warpath, Sleeping Faceless, and Stretcher. Enjoy live music with food and drinks available throughout the evening.

Karaoke takes over Deano's Pub East with a lively party where anyone can step up and sing. Whether you thrive onstage or want to try a favorite track for the first time, the microphone is ready. Expect ice-cold beer, upbeat vibes, and plenty of laughs with friends. This East County hangout keeps the energy high and the good times rolling.

Catch Lily Fitts for an evening show at SOMA in San Diego. The lineup is listed for a single performance starting at 8:00 PM, with tickets available through the linked ticketing partner.

Get ready for an electronic music lineup featuring Lane 8 along with Ashibah, Kasbo, Qrion, and YOTTO. The show takes place at Waterfront Park in San Diego and starts in the afternoon.

Experience a Latin jazz dinner in an indoor patio setting with live music by Irving Flores alongside vocalist Kaylee Daugherty. Enjoy dinner and drinks as the performance unfolds. Reservations can be made on the venue website, and seating is limited. For the best view and sound, reserve a regular table.

Catch O.A.R., Gavin DeGraw, and Lisa Loeb live at Cal Coast Credit Union Open Air Theatre at SDSU. The show starts at 6:30 PM, with all times listed as local to the venue.

At Epstein Family Amphitheater at UC San Diego, the Siudy Garrido Flamenco Company presents Flamenco Íntimo, an immersive suite created by Latin GRAMMY nominated choreographer Siudy Garrido with award winning composer and guitarist José Luis de la Paz. The Santa Barbara Independent praised the work as a powerful reimagining of a classic tradition. Rooted in the essence of flamenco, the program journeys through Guajiras, Seguirillas, Alegrías, and Soleá, blending authenticity with a contemporary point of view. Garrido leads the company, known for collaborations with Gustavo Dudamel and the Los Angeles Philharmonic. The music features the expressive flute of Eric Chacón, the guitar of Víctor Franco, and percussion by Adolfo Herrera, joined by the resonant voices of José Jesús Díaz “Cachito” and Ismael Fernández. The senior corps de ballet—Orianna Torres, Isabella Calicchio, María Larrea, Sara Mayorca, and Federica Freites—animates the stage with refined, passionate choreography. Presented in collaboration with Flamenco Arts Festival Santa Barbara.

BINI brings its SIGNALS world tour to San Diego Civic Theatre, showcasing the eight-member Filipino pop group of Aiah, Colet, Maloi, Gwen, Stacey, Mikha, Jhoanna, and Sheena. Powered by viral hits like "Cherry On Top" and over a billion streams, the group has built a dedicated global following and emerged as a leading pop force from Southeast Asia. Often called the Philippines' Nation's Girl Group, they continue to elevate Asian pop worldwide with honors that include recognition as a Spotify Breakout Artist, a historic spot as the first Filipino group announced for the Coachella lineup, and wins at the Awit Awards and Brazil's BreakTudo Awards. Their album FLAMES followed a breakthrough stretch that also brought a Best Asia Act nod at the MTV Europe Music Awards. Ticket access includes presale options through BLOOM Membership, Goldenvoice, SDT, and Spotify, along with a public onsale.

Gipsy Kings featuring Nicolas Reyes performs at The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park. Nicolas Reyes, a co-founder and the band's guiding voice for over three decades, leads a group that has spent years at the top of world music charts. This concert highlights the enduring sound and energy of their long career.

Live music happens three days each week with a mix of soulful soloists, lively duos, and terrific trios, offering something for a wide range of musical tastes. Performances are free and open to the public, and no tickets are required, creating an easygoing setting where good vibes and dancing fit right in. Weekdays also feature happy hour at Yard House and NOVO Brazil Brewing. Each Saturday, the Valley Vibes Farmers Markets bring together local vendors, fresh finds, and plenty of feel good energy all season long.

Celebrated as the country’s largest organ festival, the 38th Annual San Diego International Summer Organ Festival is presented by the Spreckels Organ Society at the Spreckels Organ Pavilion. The series showcases acclaimed international artists performing on the historic Spreckels Organ, a monumental outdoor instrument with 5,098 pipes that soar up to 32 feet and nine percussion instruments placed throughout the building. Under the artistic direction of Raúl Prieto Ramírez, San Diego’s Civic Organist, each performance lasts about 90 minutes and offers free admission with support from the Society’s sponsors, donors, members, and volunteers. The season features a diverse lineup throughout the summer, and the Pavilion also hosts weekly Sunday concerts.

Enjoy a seasonal series of salsa dancing under the stars, powered by live music from the Manny Cepeda Orchestra. This free event welcomes partners, friends, and families to spend an evening on the dance floor on select dates throughout the summer.

At San Diego Civic Theatre, a new musical follows 17-year-old Ali, a fierce and searching teen in 1990s New York, on her path to freedom, passion, and identity. Struggling with the rules of her devoted single mother, she meets a neighbor who becomes a mentor and opens the door to the piano, setting her on a transformative journey. With music by Alicia Keys, a 16-time Grammy Award winner, the show weaves new songs with beloved hits to capture the heartbeat of the city. At its core, it is a mother-daughter love story about discovering purpose and the community that lifts you. Directed by Michael Greif, choreographed by Camille A. Brown, and written by Kristoffer Diaz, this New York Times Critic's Pick brings Broadway energy and emotional fire to the stage.

Live music sets the tone for the season with a rotating mix of solo artists, duos and trios. Performances are free and open to all, with no tickets required and a dance-friendly atmosphere. Pair the tunes with happy hour at Yard House and NOVO Brazil Brewing. The series also highlights the Valley Vibes Farmers Markets, where local vendors, new discoveries and upbeat energy add to the experience all season long.

Since 2014, Opera Wednesdays has presented outstanding opera performances at the La Jolla Community Center, now spanning more than a dozen seasons. The series features accomplished vocalists from the local area, across the region, and from national and international stages in a comfortable, intimate setting that lets the music shine. It welcomes longtime opera fans as well as first-time listeners, with a focus on artistry, accessibility, and a warm sense of community. Admission is free through the generosity of the hosts and the partnership with the La Jolla Community Center. A suggested contribution of $20 to $30 per person is appreciated, and all funds go directly to the artists to help sustain live opera in San Diego. Audiences keep coming back for the expressive power of the human voice.

Chula Vista hosts an open-air concert featuring TOTO performing alongside Christopher Cross and The Romantics. The California setting elevates the mood, with every song landing with extra impact in the outdoor atmosphere. Enjoy an evening of live music from three well-known artists under the sky.

Get ready for Helado Negro at Epstein Family Amphitheater. The show is scheduled for Wednesday evening, and Reyna Tropical is listed as part of the lineup.

Catch Off With Their Heads live at Casbah in San Diego. The show starts at 8:30 PM. Supporting acts listed on the page include Mermaid Island.

Rooted in San Diego’s summer scene along Mission Bay, this annual luau brings together the tastes, sounds, and dance traditions of Polynesia for families and friends. Guests are greeted with a lei and a welcome Mai Tai, then enjoy an all-you-can-eat buffet while kids explore a special activity bag. Live entertainment carries the night as Pride of Polynesia presents traditional island music and dance, featuring graceful hula and thrilling torch dancers.

Back in San Diego, Gino and the Lone Gunmen return to Tio Leo's Lounge for an evening built around vintage style rock and roll, rockabilly, and more. Expect a dance friendly set that keeps the room moving from start to finish.

Goose performs live at this show. For each ticket sold, $1 will be donated to Western Sun Foundation, a volunteer-run 501(c)(3) that directs financial support to small and mid sized nonprofits in the communities Goose fans travel through. No portion of the ticket purchase is tax deductible. Ticket access includes multiple presales through Ticketmaster, Spotify, Live Nation, and Citi cardmember options, along with an artist presale, followed by a public onsale.

San Diego now has a fresh take on trivia with Music Game Night, a challenge devoted entirely to music. A new theme is created each week to keep things lively. Look to Instagram on the day of the event for a helpful hint. For a quick preview of the format, a short demo is available on the website.

Enjoy a live show at Casbah featuring Playlunch and Sego. The night runs in the evening, with doors and timing shown for the performance starting at 8:30 PM.