Museum Month Kickoff and Balboa Park Stage Classics Today

Celebrate Culture and Local Flavor This Sunday

Happy Sunday, San Diego! Today is February 1, 2026, and it marks a major cultural milestone for our city. From the official launch of a month-long celebration of our world-class museums to iconic theater performances and bustling local markets, there is plenty to see and do across the county. Here is your curated guide to the best of San Diego today.

Kickoff: San Diego Museum Month

Starting today, the annual San Diego Museum Month officially begins. Running throughout the entire month of February, this signature event offers residents and visitors 50% off admission to more than 70 museums, historic sites, gardens, and aquariums. To take advantage of the deal, you can pick up a free digital pass online or grab a printed pass at any San Diego City or County public library. Many popular locations are participating this year, including the USS Midway Museum, the Birch Aquarium in La Jolla, and the San Diego Museum of Art. It is the perfect opportunity to spend the day exploring the rich history and vibrant art scenes of neighborhoods like Balboa Park or the Embarcadero without the usual cost.

Local Markets and Artisan Finds

If you prefer an outdoor stroll to start your February, San Diego’s legendary Sunday markets are in full swing. These community gatherings offer everything from organic produce to handmade artisan crafts:

• Hillcrest Farmers Market: Widely regarded as one of the largest in the region, this market features over 175 vendors. Visit the 3900 block of Normal Street between 9:00 AM and 2:00 PM to enjoy fresh local produce, international hot foods, and live musical entertainment.
• La Jolla Open Aire Market: Located at the corner of Girard Avenue and Genter Street, this market runs from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. It offers a boutique shopping experience where you can find unique gifts and gourmet treats.
• Gaslamp Artisan Market: Open from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, this downtown market is the go-to spot for locally made jewelry, clothing, and home decor along Fifth Avenue in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter.

Theater and Classical Music Highlights

The local stage is especially vibrant today. At the historic Balboa Theatre, you can catch the final performances of The Simon and Garfunkel Story. This theatrical-style concert experience uses projection photos and original film footage to tell the story of the famous folk-rock duo. Showtimes are available this afternoon at 2:00 PM and this evening at 7:30 PM. For fans of classical music, the San Diego Symphony presents "Music of the Night" at the Jacobs Music Center at 2:00 PM. Under the direction of world-class conductors, the symphony will perform Mahler’s epic Symphony No. 7, a grand journey from nocturnal mystery to a heroic dawn.

Community and Festive Celebrations

Families looking for entertainment can head to SeaWorld San Diego, which is hosting its Lunar New Year and Mardi Gras celebrations today from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM. These festivals include special cultural performances, themed culinary delights, and festive street decorations. Additionally, today is the final day of San Diego Restaurant Week. It is the last chance to enjoy multi-course menus at over 180 participating eateries highlighting the best of our local culinary scene.