Overview: Summer in East Village

Don’t let summer slip away. Get out, get involved, and celebrate everything East Village has to offer.

As summer winds down, don’t say goodbye to the sunny weather and party vibes just yet. Instead, head on downtown and dive into this month’s lineup of East Village events, plus get a sneak peek at what’s coming up next season.

Summer’s grand finale: East Village Neighborhood Mixer and local events

Come down and celebrate the community at the East Village Neighborhood Mixer, a fun and friendly bi-monthly gathering on Aug. 28 from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Tavern & Bowl

Whether you’re a long-time resident, a newcomer, or a local business owner, come and connect with the people that make East Village great. The event will be filled with free bites, tastings, interactive games, and prizes. 

Discover the gems of the neighborhood, meet your neighbors, and get involved with what’s happening. 

Or you can soak up the last bits of summer with an event at a local spot like the Quartyard. Try out their Twisted Trivia night every Wednesday for a unique bar game that combines classics like Family Feud and a drinking competition.

If that’s not your vibe, stop by one of their weekend events like the R&B Block Party: All White Party on Saturday, Aug. 23. Jam out to hits from the 1990s and early 2000s that are sure to have you grooving. 

But wait, there’s more: Check out the Quartyard’s full list of events to keep the rest of the season booked and busy. 

You can ring in the Labor Day weekend with good vibes, great music, and community spirit at Margaritaville Hotel San Diego. From Aug. 29 to Sept. 1, the hotel is hosting a weekend of festivities to honor Jimmy Buffett Day and support the San Diego Music Foundation through its “Keep the Party Going” campaign. 

The celebration kicks off on Friday, Aug. 29, from 4 to 8 p.m. at the 5 o’Clock Somewhere Rooftop Bar with a free benefit concert featuring local musicians, a travel-themed silent auction, and tropical food and drinks (with a portion of proceeds going to the cause). 

Throughout the weekend, guests can enjoy donation-based ice cream carts, stilt walkers, airbrush tattoos, interactive photo ops, and complimentary rooftop margarita toasts every evening at 5 p.m.

Or are you looking for something completely new to try this summer? 

Punch Bowl Social just unveiled Verse Immersive, the world’s only holographic theater of its kind. Unlike traditional virtual reality, Verse uses cutting-edge augmented reality with clear-lens technology, allowing you to see both the people around you and the holographic overlays that bring immersive stories to life.

This next-level experience is perfect for corporate groups, youth parties, field trips, or just a spontaneous night out with friends. And while you’re there, take advantage of Punch Bowl Social’s signature games, craft cocktails, and scratch kitchen eats. Plus, if you’re planning an event at Punch Bowl Social, book it on a Monday or Tuesday before Aug. 30 to get 50% off all activities. That includes bowling, karaoke, arcade games, and more.

Or you can take advantage of summer booking specials at SoCAL Venues, available now through Aug. 31.  SoCAL Venues operates two of East Village’s event spaces including LUCE LOFT and VENUE 808.

Others can get in on the action at Tom’s Watch Bar.

This summer, every event reservation this season comes with a complimentary welcome drink. Plus, swing by Monday through Thursday for happy hour specials with food and drinks starting at just $4, available from open to 7 p.m. and again from 9 p.m. to close. 

There’s a new villain in town

Stop by and check out East Village’s newest brewery, Villains Brewing.

Located next to Petco Park, Villains Brewing is a one-of-a-kind, villain-themed BBQ and brewery experience. This family-friendly spot has décor that honors your favorite villains. Stop by for a quick bite or get your adrenaline pumping at scary movie nights with a ticketed five-course dinner and movie-inspired cocktails to pair with it. 

Looking ahead: Oktoberfest gets a unique twist

Mark your calendars for the ultimate Oktoberfest celebration with beer in music on Saturday, Sept. 20 from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. (times are subject to change) at the Quartyard.

Hosted in collaboration with the East Village Association, this exciting event goes beyond the traditional Oktoberfest by honoring the unique history of German influence on Mexican culture, reflecting the diverse spirit of the East Village neighborhood. 

Attendees can look forward to a wide selection of craft beers, classic Oktoberfest dishes, live Polka and banda music, tribute bands, and a variety of interactive games for a full day of fun and festivities.

Don’t let summer slip away! Get out, get involved, and celebrate everything East Village has to offer. 

For the latest updates on the East Village Association, please visit us at eastvillagesandiego.com and follow us on Instagram @EastVillageSD, TikTok @EastVillageSD and X @EastVillageSD.