Summer Concerts & Outdoor Music Festivals in San Diego 2026

The North Park Music Fest will kick off San Diego's summer music festival and concert season in style with 'one epic day' of live music at a dozen venues spread across the trendy North Park neighborhood.

Featuring an array of genres and 40+ acts, the event will officially be on Saturday, June 6th from 12:00pm until 9:00pm, with some performances like Cut Chemist continuing on well into the night.

With so many entertainers set to perform at the event, it was quite hard to pick just two to feature! But after much debate, we decided that the acts below are the ones you absolutely won't want to miss!

Frankie & The Witch Fingers

• Saturday, June 6th, 2026 | 8:45pm - 10:00pm

Frankie & The Witch Fingers, the headliner of the event, is set to perform at Queen Bee's from 8:45pm until 10:00pm.

An American rock band based in Los Angeles, the group features what I'd call an infectious 'Indie rock or psychedelic rock sound' that will have you moving to the beat in no time. Admission to see the band, and the 30+ acts participating in the ticketed part of the event, will cost you just $25 with advanced purchase, with a new $65 VIP option offered this year as well.

Brainstory

• Saturday, June 6th, 2026 | 5:45pm - 7:00pm

One of my personal favorite groups set to perform at the 2026 North Park Music Festival is Brainstory.

Scheduled for a 5:45pm to 7:00pm performance in the North Park Community Park, I like the fact that their set should be outside. With a soulful jazz sound mixed with some intoxicating rhythms, seeing these guys perform live should be a real treat!

Where to Stay

If you'd like a recommendation for where to stay near the 2026 North Park Music Fest, I'd suggest you see if you can snag a room at the The Lafayette Hotel and Club.

Located at 2223 El Cajon Blvd., the 4-star hotel is a mile and half from the center of North Park and walkable from many of the participating venues. A trendy and unique hotel choice, the property's eclectic décor, comfortable rooms, and famous pool make this the perfect choice to pair with the music fest!

Snapdragon Stadium frequently hosts some of the biggest touring acts during their stops in San Diego. The stadium seats 35,000 for soccer games and can hold even more for concerts and live performances.

Set to welcome a number of incredibly talented musical artists, as well as host the San Diego FC, San Diego FC Wave, and a couple of warm-up soccer matches for the upcoming World Cup, my favorite concerts of this summer season are featured below!

Zach Bryan with Heaven on Tour

• Friday, July 31st & Saturday, August 1st, 2026 | 6:30pm

Zach Bryan is so popular that he's scheduled for two shows this summer at Snapdragon Stadium. While he does fall under the country category, his music crosses boundaries, inviting everyone in.

Some of his most popular songs include "Something in the Orange" and "Pink Skies". Ticket prices start at $168.

Guns 'N Roses World Tour 2026, with special guest The Black Crowes

• Wednesday, September 2nd, 2026 | 6:25pm

This show will be huge! If you loved rock in the '80s like I did, then you likely loved Guns 'N Roses. If you're planning on going to this show, you'll get to see three founding members - Axl Rose, Slash, and Duff McKagan.

I'm sure they're going to play their fan favorites, "Sweet Child 'O Mine" and "November Rain". Ticket prices start at around $100.

San Diego FC

• All Season from February to November, 2026

So, I know that we're talking about concerts and summer music festivals but I just couldn't include SnapDragon Stadium and not mention San Diego's MLS soccer team, the San Diego FC!

The season kicked off in February and will last until November 7th, 2026 with a league wide pause set for May 24th until July 16th, 2026 to accommodate the FIFA World Cup. Tickets start at around $40, and season passes are also available.

The San Diego Wave FC of the National Women's Soccer League also plays at SnapDragon. They started their season in March and will play all the way until October 25th, 2026, also with a scheduled break for the 2026 FIFA Men's World Cup.

Where to Stay

If you're looking for overnight accommodations near SnapDragon, our team at Go Visit San Diego suggests the Hilton San Diego Mission Valley.

At about a 10-minute drive or San Diego rideshare from the stadium, the hotel's recently renovated rooms are often offered at budget-friendly rates. I also like that their connecting rooms are great for larger families, with their suites offering even more space to spread out.

Petco Park is best known as the home of the San Diego Padres baseball team, but during the summer while the team is away, it becomes a lively venue for musical acts as well.

Located in the East Village in Downtown San Diego, near the Gaslamp Quarter and San Diego Bay, the venue's impressive city views are something that adds to the excitement.

With the biggest name artists performing in the stadium, and smaller acts and festivals taking to Gallagher Square just beyond Center Field, Petco Park is set to host close to 20 performances this summer, with another ten or so already scheduled into the fall!

I'm personally really looking forward to the two featured performances below.

Ed Sheeran Loop Tour

• Tuesday, July 21st, 2026 | 5:30pm

As one of the most popular artists set to perform in San Diego this summer, I can tell you that our Go Visit San Diego team can't stop talking about this show!

Set for Tuesday, July 21st, 2026 at 5:30pm, Ed Sheeran will take the stage where he's bound to perform his hits "Perfect" and "Shape of You". As of this writing, tickets were still available via Ticketmaster starting at around $100 each.

My Chemical Romance: The Black Parade 2026

• Sunday, August 30th, 2026 | 7:00pm

My Chemical Romance is another huge name coming to Petco Park this summer.

Chances are you've heard their hits "Welcome to the Black Parade" and "Teenagers". You can buy tickets on Ticketmaster for their late August performance starting around $100.

The San Diego Padres

• All Season from March to September, 2026

I couldn't mention Petco Park without writing a little more about the San Diego Padres. Set to host a full 82 game home slate in 2026, if you're in the area, try to catch a game.

Our founder Todd and his son love to visit for a matchup, grab a hotdog, and enjoy a local (adult style for Todd) beverage or two. It's a very "San Diego" thing to do!

Where to Stay

If you're looking for overnight accommodations not far from Petco Park, I personally really like the Hard Rock Hotel San Diego.

The rock and roll themed property offers a trendy atmosphere, rooftop pool, well adorned rooms, and super convenient location walking distance to Petco Park.

With more than 30 acts scheduled for Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays between June 16th and August 27th, 2026, the Twilight Concerts in Balboa Park were an easy new addition to our list for this summer. Now choosing just two to feature below was a bit more challenging!

The outdoor summer concert series at the Spreckels Organ Pavilion in Balboa Park will include many local bands, orchestras, and ensembles that you won't see perform anywhere else.

As someone that likes to keep a close eye on my budget, I especially like that these concerts are FREE to attend and usually last just about an hour.

San Diego Jazz Orchestra

• Tuesday, July 21st, 2026 | 6:30pm

I'll be honest and say that I'm a sucker for some quality live jazz. From Aretha Franklin and Frank Sinatra to Harry Connick Jr., Ella Fitzgerald and really everything in between, hearing some of these artists' most popular tunes performed live is a party for my ears!

The San Diego Jazz Orchestra or The Sonic Colossus Jazz Orchestra, originally known as The Brad Steinwehe Jazz Orchestra, is a really talented group of musicians that I can't wait to see perform!

I have no idea what they'll play, but to me, it really won't matter. A warm summer evening in Balboa Park with the seductive sounds of jazz will absolutely be worth a visit!

Mariachi Continental de San Diego

• Tuesday, August 25th, 2026 | 6:30pm

Once again, my choice here might come with a little personal bias, but there's something I just love about a good mariachi band!

As one of the last performances scheduled for the summer 2026 concert series in Balboa Park, Mariachi Continental de San Diego is a world-class group that will perform beautiful authentic arrangements that will absolutely be a hit. Living so close to Mexico, I think it's a treat to bring my kids to a performance like this to give them a glimpse into the culture of our neighbors to the south!

Where to Stay

While there aren't any hotels directly in Balboa Park, there are a number of excellent hotel choices in Downtown San Diego.

With the neighborhoods of Little Italy, Core Columbia, the East Village, and the lively Gaslamp Quarter all within a few miles from the Spreckels Organ Pavilion, it really comes down to what kind of experience you'd like to pair with your concert.

I'll recommend The Westgate Hotel, a 4-star property located on the north edge of the Gaslamp Quarter along Second Ave. With a rooftop pool, an onsite restaurant, an afternoon tea service, and rooms and suites that I find quite luxurious, I can tell you that surprisingly to me, prices can still be quite reasonable!

Our team at Go Visit San Diego is once again excited that the annual San Diego County Fair at the Del Mar Fairgrounds is almost here!

One of the highlights of the fair will surely be the nightly concert lineup scheduled for one of three events - Toyota Summer Concert Series, the Chevy Paddock Concert Series, and Summer Nights at the Sound. Performances run from June 10th until July 5th, 2026.

With 15 exciting performances currently scheduled for the Toyota Summer Concert Series alone plus nearly 30 more scheduled as part of the Chevrolet Paddock Concert Series and Summer Nights at the Sound, we also included seeing a summer concert at this year's San Diego County Fair as part of our Best Things to Do in San Diego.

While I'll feature a couple of my favorite summer concerts below, it's also worth noting that comedian Gabriel "Fluffy" Iglesias will be performing on June 18th, and there will also be a big 250th-anniversary fireworks celebration on July 4th!

Marshmello with 4B

• Friday, June 19th, 2026 | 7:30pm

Even if you've not realized you were listening to his music, chances are you know or have at least seen the performer known as Marshmello.

His marshmallow looking mask gives him an iconic vibe. As far as his music goes, "Happier" is a fan favorite, along with "Silence". If you have teenagers like some of us on our staff, they're probably already asking to go to this show. General admission tickets start around $72 and include same-day fair admission.

Demi Lovato

• Wednesday, June 24th, 2026 | 7:30pm

If you love the song "Sorry Not Sorry", you're probably a Demi Lovato fan. But you might not know that this pop superstar is also a "New York Times" best-selling author. I'm sure this show is going to be packed!

General admission tickets start around $75 and also include same-day fair admission.

Where to Stay

Located just over a mile to the south from the Del Mar Fairgrounds, I'd highly recommend the L'Auberge Del Mar Resort and Spa for a splurge-worthy stay after a concert.

The 4-star resort features a sun-drenched pool, clean and simple rooms, and is walking distance to the beach.

A trip to SeaWorld San Diego in Mission Bay Park is always a favorite summertime destination for many San Diego families and visitors alike.

As a local tip, when you buy a Go City San Diego pass, it makes visiting SeaWorld and 30+ other attractions in the area more budget-friendly. With your pass in hand during the summer, you won't want to miss the park's electrifying Summer Spectacular Concert Series!

This year's performances run from June 6th to August 8th at the Bayside Amphitheater, with the events each night starting at 6:00pm. The best part is that general admission to the concerts is included with park admission, or a Go City San Diego pass, with a reserved seating option starting at $39.99 as well.

With nine Summer Spectacular performances between now and August, below are two I think will be a lot of fun!

Pop 2000 Tour

• Saturday, June 27th, 2026 | 6:00pm

I'm excited to see some energetic R&B and hip-hop artists coming to the Bayside Amphitheater this summer.

The show I'm most excited for is 'The Pop 2000 Tour'. It will feature O-Town, Ryan Cabrera, and LFO. Chris Kirkpatrick of NSYNC is hosting. As a former boy band fan, this is a draw in itself! Personally, I would definitely splurge for reserved seating for this show.

Jordin Sparks

• Saturday, August 1st, 2026 | 6:00pm

If you were an "American Idol" fan like me, you may remember Jordin Sparks.

She was the show's youngest winner and went on to become a pop star. Her well-known songs include, "No Air" and "Battlefield". I'm expecting an evening of nostalgic hits, powerful vocals, and a lot of memorable moments!

Where to Stay

You won't have an issue finding a fantastic hotel in Mission Bay as The Dana on Mission Bay, Bahia Resort Hotel, and the San Diego Mission Bay Resort are all nearby family-friendly choices!

You also can't go wrong with Paradise Point. The hotel is also family-friendly and waterfront, with incredible views and a location not far from SeaWorld San Diego.

The first of a couple energy-packed music festivals set to be held in Waterfront Park this summer, Into the Horizon, promises to offer a mix of electronic and live music that will carry the vibe from 'daytime warmth into evening energy'.

While there are quite a few acts set to take center stage, the two headliners are worth a mention as the ones you absolutely won't want to miss.

Tiësto

• Saturday, June 27th, 2026

Tiësto is a highly decorated icon of the electronic music scene that's redefined and elevated electronic music. A GRAMMY Award Winner that's performed at the Olympics, to say his performance will be 'incredible' will probably be an understatement.

If you've never seen Tiësto perform, or perhaps never seen a DJ at a music festival like this, I can tell you that it is a one-of-a-kind experience I think everyone should check out at least once!

Martin Garrix

• Sunday, June 28th, 2026

When I think of Martin Garrix, I think of his songs 'Animals' and 'Tremor', but he's so much more than just those hits.

His electronic and pop crossover music has led him to headline some pretty iconic music festivals and events including Tomorrowland, Coachella, Ultra Music Festival, and the UEFA EURO 2020.

Where to Stay

Located at the north end of Embarcadero near the Little Italy neighborhood, Waterfront Park offers a location not far from many of Downtown San Diego's best hotels.

My favorite option here is the InterContinental San Diego by IHG. A 4-star property with stunning bay views and one of my favorite pools in San Diego, the hotel is walking distance from the music festival.

Holo Holo is the second huge live music event coming to Waterfront Park this summer. The reggae music festival will include a full day of incredible food, island love, and eight unforgettable performances.

While I like all the acts scheduled to perform this year, my favorite two are listed below.

The Green

• Saturday, June 18th, 2026

Hawaii's reggae powerhouse, The Green, offers themes of family, resilience, and unity.

Bringing the spirit of Aloha to San Diego with songs like 'Feeling Free' and 'Coming Home', their groovy songs will have you swinging to the beat in no time!

Ekolu

• Saturday, June 18th, 2026

It's hard to believe that Ekolu has been making music for more than 25 years!

With tunes designed to inspire and connect generations, Ekolu has released 13 albums and countless singles with many more to come!

Where to Stay

While you could totally choose to stay at the InterContinental San Diego by IHG, my other favorite choice nearby Waterfront Park is the Wyndham San Diego Bayside.

The 3-star hotel features ocean views, multiple restaurants, and rooms that are just steps from the music festival. The staff is very friendly and it's quite possible to find a budget-friendly room at the hotel.

Nothing quite says 'summer is here' like a concert at The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park, which is why we also included seeing a summertime concert at the venue on our best things to do in San Diego list. The acoustics are amazing, and with a location right at the edge of San Diego Bay and the heart of downtown, it's a cool place to spend an evening.

The 2026 concert season at the Rady Shell at Jacobs Park promises to be a lot of fun. Home to the San Diego Symphony, the venue will host events starting on June 9th, running through the summer, and on until the end of October. Ticket prices vary, so I recommend finding the show you want to see and then checking out the prices from there.

The Beach Boys with the San Diego Symphony Orchestra

• Saturday, June 27th | 7:30pm

You can't go wrong with the iconic "Beach Boys" and the San Diego Symphony Orchestra.

I'm sure tickets are going to sell fast for this show! Led by the legendary Mike Love, the Beach Boys show also will salute the 60 years since their 1966 album "Pet Sounds". Tickets for this show start at $78.

American the Beautiful 250

• Saturday, July 4th, 2026 | 7:30pm

What better way to celebrate America's 250th birthday than with a concert at The Rady Shell!

The San Diego Symphony Orchestra is set to perform the sounds of our nation on this very special day. Ticket holders will be able to listen to the music, then watch a fireworks spectacular. This is bound to be one of the best Fourth of July shows in San Diego. Tickets start at just $57.

Where to Stay

Our founder Todd really loves the Pendry San Diego for an overnight stay near The Rady Shell. The 4-star property offers clean and comfortable rooms.

The Gaslamp Quarter location is also convenient to a nice selection of restaurants and nightlife establishments.

New to our 2026 edition of the best summer concerts and outdoor music festivals, we wanted to include one of our founder Todd's favorite venues to see live music during the summer, but really any time of the year.

The Belly Up Tavern offers locals and visitors alike a venue to see live concerts most nights of the week, with Friday nights often featuring multiple performances.

As a one-of-a-kind San Diego venue, some of the artists making stops at the area's music festivals have been known to make a stop here as well. The music runs the gamut from rock to pop, to country, 80's and more.

Below are two real stand-out summer performances I'm excited to see.

Ambrosia

• Saturday, June 18th, 2026 | 7:30pm

The 5-time Grammy Nominated group is set to perform a seated show on Saturday, June 18th that is surely one to consider.

Originally formed in the 1970's you may be familiar with their smooth sounding hits "How Much I Feel" and "Biggest Part of Me", with the second song there being the one that I personally really love. Advanced tickets start at $38 plus fees.

Common Sense

• Saturday, August 15th, 2026 | 8:00pm

After recently performing at the 2026 Fiesta Del Sol music festival in Fletcher Cove Park, Common Sense will be back in action in mid-August.

Offering a little something for everyone - reggae, rock, pop, funk, and soul - this Southern California band started out in Santa Barbara and has really made a name for itself over the years.

With reggae-rock influences, Common Sense has a unique style that just always ends up making for a fantastic show. Tickets are currently on sale for under $30.

Where to Stay

Located less than a mile to the south, the Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Del Mar/Solana Beach will offer you everything you'll need for a night of quality rest after an evening of live music.

Guests can expect clean rooms, friendly service, and a location that's a short walk to the beautiful Seascape Beach!

If you're on the southside of San Diego in Chula Vista this summer, the North Island Credit Union Amphitheater would be a fun place to see a show. The acoustics at this venue are outstanding, and most seats offer a great view of the stage.

While the venue hosts performances throughout the year, summertime may just be my favorite time to see a performance. Below are two I'm looking forward to this summer.

Evanescence 2026 World Tour with Spiritbox and Nova Twins

• Friday, July 17th, 2026 | 7:00pm

Rock bank Evanescence will hit the stage at the North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre this summer on Friday, July 17th. I personally love their song "My Immortal". I'm sure they'll play it at the show.

The open-air amphitheater offers standard seating options, as well as GA lawn tickets which currently can be had for just $54.

Santana & The Doobie Brothers - Oneness Tour 2026

• Saturday, July 11th, 2026 | 7:00pm

Musical legends Santana & The Doobie Brothers are making a San Diego stop this summer!

I would think this would be a packed show, so be sure to get your tickets early for this one.

I've seen GA lawn tickets for $65 with standard seats starting at just $68 a ticket. This is a great opportunity to see an outdoor show without breaking the bank.

Where to Stay

There's a unique hotel close to North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre called The Rambler. It's fun, funky, family-friendly, and affordable and our team at Go Visit San Diego would highly recommend it!