San Diego Comic-Con International (SDCC) (July — Preview Night Wednesday, main convention Thursday–Sunday (2026 dates: July 22–26)). The world's largest comic book and popular culture convention, held annually since 1970. Over 130,000 attendees at the San Diego Convention Center. Founded 1970; moved to San Diego Convention Center in 1991.
San Diego Pride Festival (July (2026 dates: July 18–19)). Annual LGBTQ+ pride festival held at Marston Point in Balboa Park, featuring parade, music, and community events. One of the largest pride events on the West Coast.
MCAS Miramar Air Show (Late September — typically a three-day weekend (2026 dates: September 25–27)). Annual military air show at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, billed as the largest military air show in the United States with approximately 700,000 attendees annually.
Fleet Week San Diego (Late October – early November (2025 dates: October 30 – November 9)). Annual free public celebration of the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard featuring ship tours, Blue Angels air show, Parade of Ships through San Diego Bay, and military ceremonies.
San Diego Beer Week (November (typically ten days, first or second week of November)). City-wide craft beer celebration organized by the San Diego Brewers Guild, featuring events at bars, breweries, and restaurants throughout San Diego County. San Diego is known as 'Capital of Craft Beer.'
Port of San Diego Holiday Bowl Parade (Late December (typically December 27)). Annual balloon parade along the bayfront in downtown San Diego, billed as 'America's largest balloon parade' with over 100,000 street-side spectators. Preceded by the Holiday Bowl college football game.