Spring is only three months out of the year, so make sure to you don’t miss San Diego’s favorite Spring events. From spectacular festivals to the garden fresh food and drinks served at restaurants, the Spring season is definitely a time for new beginnings. If you’re looking to do some touring in San Diego, check out these ideas. 

Spring Festivals

The San Diego Zoo Garden Festival

Mark your calendars for May 10 and 11 for the San Diego Zoo Garden Festival!  There are tons of activities like classes on gardening techniques and conserving plant species around the world and in your own backyard. Also, enjoy the special garden-inspired meals and snacks available during the Festival.

Vista Strawberry Festival

Vista was once the strawberry capital of the world and it still has many strawberry fields today. Come in your favorite strawberry themed garb on May 24th as you watch the kids getting messy in the pie eating contests. Feel the wind through your hair on the exhilarating rides and enjoy tasty food right in the heart of Historic Downtown Vista. This year is the first ever 10k Strawberry Run, where USA Track and Field (USATF) members run for a chance to win prize money.  All participants are winners and will receive a finishers medal, fruit cup and beer.

The Festival of the Arts in North Park

This annual spring event is a local tradition that showcases amazing pieces of art ranging from all mediums, and takes place on the 16th of May. The Festival of the Arts celebrates the art of music and dance with numerous live stages throughout the event. The authenticity of one of the oldest neighborhoods in San Diego attracts many creative individuals.. Dive into the ever growing art scene by admiring or purchasing pieces from the local artists.  A Kids Art Block is set up just for kids, where they can use their imagination and create their very own masterpieces. While the kids get crafty with their art,  the adults can also get crafty by sampling local craft brews from many of San Diego’s local favorite breweries.

Fun Fact:  Did you know since the Spring Season usually brings friends together, we tend to drink more local beer.

Spring Flavor at Bars and Restaurants

Heavenly Cupcakes

Known for their variety of flavored cupcakes, they are now serving refreshing fruit bouquets and chocolate dipped strawberries. Tasty!

Ciro’s Pizzeria and Beerhouse

Two new cocktails are now available for you to enjoy with their delicious pizza. The first is called Pimms Pineapple Mojito.  Its a fresh blend of Pimms #1, White Rum, fresh mint, fresh lime and pineapple juices as well as their house made simple syrup.  The other cocktail is called Chartreuse Collins, which is a take on the classic Tom Collins but with a more refreshing twist. This flavorful fusion consists of gin, yellow chartreuse, mint, house made simple and fresh lemon juice topped with sparkling water.

The Red Door Restaurant and Wine Bar

We love farm to table, and The Red Door does a great job at using locally grown ingredients!  Try these new spring dishes and cocktails!

Start off with the Roasted Beet & Basil Salad. A tasty combination of garden greens, garden beets, sunflower sprouts, blue cheese, slivered almonds, basil, and orange vinaigrette.

Next, enjoy The Shrimp & “Frumplings” is a citrus grilled baja shrimp dish with shaves fennel, garden greens slaw, a creamy tarragon dressing, as well as fried potato dumpling shrimp(the frumpling), goat cheese, and bacon jam.

Finish of the dining experience with a the Spring Thyme cocktail. A fusion of vanilla vodka, ginger liqueur, garden tangerine, and of course the thyme.

There you have it, a collection of places to see and food and drink to love this Spring. What a great way to treat yourself after all that Spring cleaning!