Free things to do in San Diego this weekend

Fri, Sep 25–27

143 things to do across 56 venues in San Diego this weekend (Fri, Sep 25–27): 52 family, 34 art & exhibitions. Updated nightly, free as listed by the venue.

Friday, September 25, 2026 58

  1. 9:00 AM

    Gentle Yoga

    Lemon Grove Library · Lemon Grove

    This program features exercises done seated and standing and is a great way to burn calories, reduce stress, increase endurance, build core strength, and feel better overall. This event takes place every Friday at 9am. This is before the library opens, please come to the front…

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  2. 10:00 AM

    Drop-In Tech Help

    Would you like to learn how to access the San Diego County Library's vast collection of Ebooks, Eaudiobooks, Emagazines and newspapers? Come on by the Fletcher Hills Library every Friday from 10a.m. - 11a.m. and library staff can assist you.

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  3. 10:00 AM

    Cribbage

    Poway Library · Poway

    Join us for a fun and friendly game of Cribbage . Bring your own board if you have one. All levels are welcome. Instructions will be provided.

    Tickets & details
  4. 10:00 AM

    Tai Chi

    Poway Library · Poway

    Introductory Tai Chi classes with instructor, Patty Bozorgchami. The graceful movement and meditation helps with balance and breathing.

    Tickets & details
  5. 10:00 AM

    Buck-A-Bag Booksale

    Valley Center Library · Valley Center

    Fill your bag with books of your choice (4-5 books a bag) and pay only $1. You can find the Buck-A-Bag sale tables in the library, near the bookstore. Come, browse, and buy! All sales help support the Valley Center Library. For more information about the Friends of the Valley…

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  6. 10:00 AM

    Tots and Blocks

    San Marcos Library · San Marcos

    Bring your little ones for play time at the library! Children 0-5 and their caregivers are encouraged to play with the toys provided by the library. *Toys only available during Tots and Blocks. This program is generously sponsored by the San Marcos Friends of the Library.

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  7. 10:00 AM

    American Red Cross Blood Drive

    Encinitas Library · Encinitas

    To schedule an appointment please sign up online at www.redcrossblood.org and enter: SDLibrary or call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767 Photo ID Required to Donate Want to know if you are eligible to donate? Call the Red Cross Donor Support Center at 1-866-236-3276 Streamline…

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  8. 10:00 AM

    Chinese Mahjong Meetup

    Alpine Library · Alpine

    Join us once a week for Chinese mahjong from 10 a.m. - noon in the Alpine Library Community Room. Adults of all skill levels are welcome to play. No registration required. Bring your Mahjong set, if you have one.

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  9. 10:00 AM

    50% off Encore Bookstore Sale

    Vista Library · Vista

    Friends of the Vista Library Encore Book Store: All books, CDs, and DVDs are 1/2 price. Cash and card accepted. The Friends of the Vista Library, which is comprised of volunteers, is an independent non-profit organization, which, through processing item donations, running the…

    Tickets & details
  10. 10:30 AM

    Cyber Seniors - Tech Help Class

    San Marcos Library · San Marcos

    Cyber-Seniors provides FREE technology support and training for older adults. Sign up for classes online, ask staff for assistance or call us at 760-891-3012. Walk-ins welcome! Please bring any questions or devices you'd like training on. If you need passwords please remember…

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  11. 10:30 AM

    Baby Storytime

    Alpine Library · Alpine

    Babies experience the sounds and structure of language through rhythm, rhyme, and repetition. Plan on a fifteen-minute program with time for baby and caregiver socializing afterwards. Geared toward pre-walkers.

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  12. 10:30 AM

    Senior Nutrition Program

    Jacumba Library · Jacumba

    Join us for Adult lunches every Friday at 10am. San Ysidro Health’s East County Senior Nutrition Program provides fresh frozen, nutritious lunches for adults ages 60 and older in the rural Mountain Empire Area. .

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  13. 10:30 AM

    Baby Storytime

    Imperial Beach Library · Imperial Beach

    Enjoy songs, fingerplays and short stories for your littlest ones. Geared for pre-walkers 0-18 months and their caregivers. Followed by play time, with age appropriate toys for babies 0-18 months.

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  14. 11:00 AM

    Tech Help

    Need help with your email? Struggling to navigate a website? New to using a smartphone or tablet? Come to the Rancho San Diego Library for technology assistance ! We’re experienced with tech problem-solving and are eager to assist you ! No reservation required. Walk-Ins welcome!

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  15. 11:00 AM

    Tai Chi

    Lemon Grove Library · Lemon Grove

    Join us to experience the art of Tai Chi in a calm and welcoming setting. Through slow, controlled movements, Tai Chi can enhance balance, strength, flexibility, and mobility. All skill levels are encouraged to participate.

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  16. 12:00 PM

    TABLE: ALPHA Project

    Vista Library · Vista

    Alpha Project is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) human services organization that serves over 4,000 men, women, and children each day. Services offered include affordable housing, residential substance abuse treatment, supportive housing for people with special needs, basic and emergency…

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  17. 1:00 PM

    Crest Craft Circle

    Crest Library · El Cajon

    Bring your own craft or make something at the library! We have supplies available, and we can teach you the basics. Or, join us to share your skills. Socialize or have a quiet place away from home to get some crafting done.

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  18. 1:00 PM

    Beading & Jewelry Club

    Valley Center Library · Valley Center

    Join us on Friday afternoons from 1:00–4:00 pm to explore the art of beading and jewelry-making with instructor, LaDawna Williams. Bring your current projects and creative ideas—some beads and supplies will be provided. Discover how fun and rewarding beading can be! Open to all…

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  19. 2:00 PM

    Feeling Fit Club

    Alpine Library · Alpine

    The Feeling Fit Club is a FREE functional fitness program for older adults focusing on aerobic endurance, strength, flexibility, and balance to maintain independence. All levels are welcome! sponsored by Aging & Independence Services, County of San Diego Health and Human…

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  20. 3:00 PM

    Paint n' Sip: Fingerpainting Fun!

    Cardiff-by-the-Sea Library · Cardiff-by-the-Sea

    At this painting session, kids can create a masterpiece with fingerpaints, and sip from one of their choices of juice boxes! Ages 3-12; please be sure that your child is in clothing that will be allowed to get messy. No sign-up is required, but supplies will be limited. This…

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  21. 3:00 PM

    ESL English classes/ Clases de Ingles

    Encinitas Library · Encinitas

    Laubach Literacy Council of San Diego, in partnership with the County library, is offering English classes. All materials are provided. Space is limited. Please reach out to the library for registration. Laubach Literacy Council of San Diego en alianza con la Biblioteca del…

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  22. 5:00 PM

    Food Distribution

    Spring Valley Library · Spring Valley

    Stop by the Library to pick up free groceries for you and your family! Feeding San Diego is providing dry goods and fresh produce for this walk-up distribution. BRING YOUR OWN BAGS. *While supplies last. ¡Pase por la biblioteca para recoger alimentos gratuitos para usted y su…

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  23. All day

    Digital Fridays/ Viernes Digitales

    Borrego Springs Library · Borrego Springs

    Would you like help downloading the latest magazines, ebooks, and audiobooks for free? Do you need assistance using the Libby app on your new phone or tablet? Stop by and receive help from library staff on the use of the library's many free and fun digital resources. Bring your…

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Saturday, September 26, 2026 51

  1. 8:00 AM

    Little Italy Mercato (Saturday)

    A certified Saturday farmers market in Little Italy running year-round, rain or shine, offering fresh fruits and vegetables, pastured eggs, meat, seafood, bread, pastries, cheese, coffee, and specialty treats. Local artists, crafters, candles, and handmade soaps are also…

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  2. 10:00 AM

    Writers' Workshop

    Alpine Library · Alpine

    The Writers’ Workshop is for all levels, from beginner to seasoned writer. Share your work with the group, get feedback, ask questions, and have fun! All writing styles and genres are welcome, whether you want to write a memoir, develop better editing skills, or start or finish…

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  3. 10:00 AM

    Bag O' Books Sale

    El Cajon Library · El Cajon

    Join us for another monthly 'Bag of Books' event; exactly what it sounds like. Fill up a bag with as many books as you can for only $3! All proceeds benefit the Friends of the El Cajon Library. Cash Only.

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  4. 10:00 AM

    Tech Help 2.0

    Valley Center Library · Valley Center

    Learn how to use your smart phone, tablet, laptop and other devices. Get help with internet searching, email, downloading apps, eBooks, and more. Sign-up recommended. Walk-in appointments are now also available.

    Tickets & details
  5. 10:00 AM

    Knitting Club

    Valley Center Library · Valley Center

    Join us Saturday mornings at 10:00 am and learn the art of knitting and crocheting. Bring a pair of needles and we'll help you start your project. Yarn and additional supplies provided. See how much fun and gratifying knitting can be! Open to all skill levels.

    Tickets & details
  6. 10:00 AM

    50% off Encore Bookstore Sale

    Vista Library · Vista

    Friends of the Vista Library Encore Book Store: All books, CDs, and DVDs are 1/2 price. Cash and card accepted. The Friends of the Vista Library, which is comprised of volunteers, is an independent non-profit organization, which, through processing item donations, running the…

    Tickets & details
  7. 10:30 AM

    Gentle Yoga

    Valley Center Library · Valley Center

    ** ON PATIO ** Join instructor Bunny on Thursdays and instructor Carol on Saturdays for Gentle Yoga. Bring your own yoga mat and water. Classes are designed to enhance vitality and a sense of well-being. You will learn the elements fundamental to the practice-both the how and…

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  8. 10:30 AM

    Clay Japanese Garden

    Rancho Santa Fe Library · Rancho Santa Fe

    Samira will help you create your very own Japanese Garden made our of clay. All supplies are provided, but space is limited. Please register online or call the branch at 858-756-2512 to reserve your spot. Registration opens Tuesday, September 1st.

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  9. 10:30 AM

    Junk Journaling Class

    Lincoln Acres Library · National City

    Unleash your creativity and make a journal that's uniquely yours. Join us for a fun, hands-on junk journaling class where you'll combine paper, photos, artwork, ephemera, other decorative materials to create a one-of-a-kind journal. Materials will be provided.

    Tickets & details
  10. 11:00 AM

    Buck-A-Bag Booksale

    Valley Center Library · Valley Center

    Fill your bag with books of your choice (4-5 books a bag) and pay only $1. You can find the Buck-A-Bag sale tables in the library, near the bookstore. Come, browse, and buy! All sales help support the Valley Center Library. For more information about the Friends of the Valley…

    Tickets & details
  11. 11:30 AM

    Saturday Family Movie Matinee

    Cardiff-by-the-Sea Library · Cardiff-by-the-Sea

    Spend some family time together watching a movie with us in our air-conditioned community room. Popcorn and juice boxes will also be available. We'll be showing either a Hot.Right.Now. title or a popular childrens' film! Please call the library for the planned movie title.…

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  12. 11:30 AM

    Saturday Cinema Club - Hoppers

    El Cajon Library · El Cajon

    Join the Saturday Cinema Club every month to watch movies at the library! This month we're watching Hoppers (2026), directed by Daniel Chong. Starring Piper Curda, Bobby Moynihan, Jon Hamm, Kathy Najimy, and Dave Franco. "Animal lover Mabel seizes an opportunity to use a new…

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  13. 1:00 PM

    Painting at the Library

    Crest Library · El Cajon

    Try your hand at painting in this informal session and take home a finished painting. Materials are provided and no prior experience is necessary. Space is limited, please call 619-442-7083 to RSVP or stop by the Crest branch to reserve a spot. This program is designed for…

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  14. 1:00 PM

    Adult Book Club

    Ramona Library · Ramona

    Join us as we discuss our title for the month. It will be a great opportunity to meet and greet with other book lovers and discover new authors as we discuss our current title of the month. Reserved copies available at the library. eBook and eAudiobook versions are available in…

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  15. 1:00 PM

    Paint with Christy Ross!

    Lemon Grove Library · Lemon Grove

    Try your hand at a painting class with Christy Ross in this informal session and take home a finished painting. Materials provided. All levels welcome. Space is limited. This program is designed for Adults and Teens. Sign-ups begin on Sept 12 at 10am . To register, please visit…

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  16. 3:00 PM

    Valley Center Fiddle Club

    Valley Center Library · Valley Center

    Learn to play the violin and fiddle! All ages welcome. Suzuki method & classical technique with some old-time fiddling thrown in for fun! For more info, contact instructor Jamaica Rafael Dieter by calling 818-554-0744 or via email at jamaicadieter@gmail.com. Classically trained…

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  17. 10:00 PM

    Flashback: A 2010s EDM Tribute Party

    Nova SD · San Diego

    Ages 21+**NOTE ON RSVPS** RSVPs do not guarantee entry, admittance is based on capacity on a first come first serve basis. Doors open at 10pm, early arrival suggested. Or, if you would like to guarantee admittance and arrive any time, you may purchase a General Admission Ticket.…

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Sunday, September 27, 2026 11

  1. 10:30 AM

    Yoga

    Poway Library · Poway

    New Instructor Kirani leads a class focused on gentle movements with breathwork to build strength and flexibility. *Suitable for all levels of ability. Please bring a yoga mat and water.

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  2. 11:00 AM

    Volunteer Interest Session

    El Cajon Library · El Cajon

    Join us at the El Cajon Library to for a new volunteer interest session. Interested participants will learn about what it takes volunteer at the library, different positions available, and how volunteering serves our communities.

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  3. 1:00 PM

    Mending Meetup w/Good Neighbor Thrift

    Vista Library · Vista

    Join us for our beginner-friendly Mending Meetup. Bring clothing that needs repair. Some supplies available for use, sharing with your neighbors is encouraged! Únete a nuestra reunión de remendado para principiantes. Trae ropa que necesite reparación. Hay algunos materiales…

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  4. 2:00 PM

    Teach Me How: Get to Know Claude AI

    San Marcos Library · San Marcos

    Instructor Anil Agrawal will take you from Curious to Confident in 60 minutes! Learn to talk to AI like a Pro! What is AI? What is Claude? Using Claude for Everyday Life Setting up Claude Desktop (Free & Pro options) Demo: Answering everyday questions Demo: Writing emails &…

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On view this weekend 23

  1. On view · through Sun, Nov 15

    Farm to Craft

    An entry-level exhibition at the Mingei International Museum drawn from its Permanent Collection, exploring the global significance of grains as both sustenance and a source of human creative inspiration.

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  2. On view · through Sun, Nov 1

    To Catch a Fish

    An exhibition at the Mingei International Museum featuring over sixty works of craft and art related to fishing, showcasing both utilitarian fishing objects and works that illuminate the deep relationship between people and fish.

    Tickets & details
  3. On view · through Sun, Jan 10

    Cecil Beaton's Fashionable World

    The first exhibition dedicated to Cecil Beaton (1904–1980) at the San Diego Museum of Art, celebrating his multifaceted career as a photographer, fashion illustrator, Oscar-winning costume designer, social caricaturist, and writer who was a towering force in British and American…

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  4. On view · through Sat, Jan 2

    Learn English with Laubach

    Vista Library · Vista

    APRENDE INGLÉS (¡según tu horario!) Clases de inglés gratuitas para adultos Para más información llame al (760) 812-4243. LEARN ENGLISH (on your schedule!) Free English Lessons for Adults For more information call (760) 812-4243. LAUBACH LITERACY OF SAN DIEGO COUNTY

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  5. On view · through Wed, Sep 30

    September Scavenger Hunt

    Crest Library · El Cajon

    Find all 9 pictures hiding in the Crest library and claim a prize! Youngsters, kids, teens, and families are encouraged to visit the library to find them all! Scavenger hunt images will change monthly with different themes and hiding places.

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  6. On view · through Wed, Sep 30

    September Videogaming at Crest

    Crest Library · El Cajon

    It's not just books at the library: Crest has videogames for patrons to enjoy, too! Visit Crest during its open hours and ask the front desk staff for access to the original Xbox One or Nintendo Switch. Please be mindful of others who also want a turn!

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