Ready to make August 2025 the highlight of your summer? Here’s your no-nonsense guide to what’s happening across North County San Diego—from Del Mar to Oceanside and everything in between.
Taste of Encinitas – Aug 6 (Encinitas)
Try bites from 30+ local spots, enjoy live music, and stroll boutiques in downtown Encinitas. Great for foodies and casual strollers alike.
Summer Twilight Concert Series – Tuesdays through Aug 12 (Encinitas, Powerhouse Park)
Catch free music at sunset. Pack a picnic and soak in the coastal vibe.
Del Mar Races at the Turf Club – Summertime weekends
Enjoy thoroughbred racing, sunset cocktails, and ocean views at the Turf Club adjacent to the legendary Del Mar racetrack.
Encinitas Art Night & Sawdust Art Festival – mid-August
Art installations, live demos, handmade crafts, and gallery walkabouts. Great for creative souls and culture vultures.
Oceanside International Film Festival – (Oceanside)
The 14th annual event brings narrative, documentary, and shorts to local venues. A little indie film sparkle right by the coast.
San Diego International Kids’ Film Festival – Aug 22‑24 (Carlsbad)
Family‑friendly screenings at Schulman Auditorium tailored for the little ones—fun and educational.
Bike the Bay – Aug 24 (San Diego Bay area)
Pedal across the Coronado Bay Bridge on this scenic, non-competitive ride along the Bayshore Bikeway. Not North County per se, but tough to beat those views.
Ramona Rodeo – Aug 21‑23 (Ramona)
Rodeo action with hometown hospitality. Think bull riding, BBQ, Alan Jackson—minus the Jackson.
U.S. Senior Women’s Open – Aug 21‑24 (Chula Vista)
Golf’s big deal for women over 50 hosted at San Diego Country Club. Includes the pros and plenty of legroom for fans.
Convoy Community Market & Block Party – Aug 10 (Convoy Street, Kearny Mesa)
Celebrate San Diego’s Korean food boom with pop-up vendors, bites, and live performances in the Pan Asian Cultural District. axios.com
Frontwave Arena Events – Oceanside
New 7,500-seat venue hosting concerts, sports, and more. Perfect excuse to check out Oceanside’s revamped nightlife. Wikipedia
Weekly Highlights
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Farmers markets and art fairs bubble throughout the week in Carlsbad and Encinitas. Pam Fraser
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Pop-up concerts like Concerts in the Parks and TGIF Carlsbad keep music alive through Fridays.