Weekend Picks: Events Happening Around Carlsbad
July 24–26, 2026
Looking for plans this weekend? Whether you're searching for family-friendly activities, live music, local food and wine, or a relaxing evening out, Carlsbad has something for everyone. From community concerts and neighborhood gatherings to a wine festival benefiting local nonprofits, here's your guide to what's happening around town this weekend.
Summer Sounds
Kick off your weekend at the Bressi Ranch Summer Social Hour Series
This free community event features Summer Sounds, with a live steel drum performer, along with lawn games like Giant Jenga, Corn Hole, Connect 4, Ladder Toss, and more. Guests can also enjoy a fun dirty soda bar while spending a summer evening outdoors with family and friends.
When: Friday, July 24 6:00–8:00 PM
Location: Bressi Ranch Village Center
2629 Gateway Road, Carlsbad, CA 92009
Admission: Free
Link: Summer Sounds
TGIF Concerts in the Parks
Another Friday night favorite is TGIF Concerts in the Parks, one of Carlsbad's longest-running summer traditions.
Pack a blanket or lawn chair, grab dinner to-go from a local restaurant, and enjoy free live music in one of Carlsbad's beautiful parks. The concert series features a variety of musical styles and is perfect for families, couples, and groups of friends.
When: Friday, July 24 4:00–9:00 PM
Location:Calaveria Hills Community Center
2997 Glasgow Dr, Carlsbad, CA 92010
Admission: Free
Link: TGFI
Front Row Saturday: Besos Jazz Trio
Start your Saturday with an afternoon of live music at the Carlsbad City Library.
The Besos Jazz Trio combines soulful jazz guitar and bass with the rhythmic artistry of tap dance, creating a unique performance that's both entertaining and memorable.
When: Saturday, July 25 5:00–6:00 PM
Location: Carlsbad City Library
1775 Dove Ln, Carlsbad, CA 92011
Admission: Free
Link: Front Row Saturday
Carlsbad Wine & Food Festival
Wrap up Saturday evening at one of Carlsbad's premier summer events.
Hosted by the Rotary Club of Carlsbad, the Carlsbad Wine & Food Festival brings together local restaurants, wineries, breweries, and craft cocktails for an evening of incredible food, drinks, and entertainment.
When: Saturday, July 25
Food & Wine Festival: 4:00–7:00 PM
DJ Dance Party: 7:00–9:00 PM
Location: Viasat Campus
2456 Town Garden Road
Carlsbad, CA 92009
Tickets: $125
This event is for guests 21 and older.
Link: Wine & Food Festival
Make the Most of Your Weekend
Whether you're enjoying live music under the stars, spending time with family at Bressi Ranch, discovering local artists, or sampling some of the best food and wine Carlsbad has to offer, there's no shortage of ways to enjoy the weekend.
Check back each week for more local events, community happenings, and things to do around Carlsbad and North County San Diego.