Dancers in the Plaza

Throughout the year, Old Town San Diego State Historic Park hosts many different events in the park. The dates of these events change every year, so make sure to check in here to get updates on what is going on in the park.

If you are interested in having a private event, such as a wedding or reunion, in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, please visit our Weddings and Private Events page for more information about how to schedule an event.

 blacksmith weddings 
Virtual Events Wedding & Private Events

California State Parks Week: Pastimes at Old Town San Diego

California State Parks invite you to celebrate California State Parks Week: Pastimes of Old Town San Diego!

Saturday June 14th, 2025

11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Come play outside at Old Town San Diego State Historic Park with19th century games in the plazaChallenge family and friends of all ages to wheelbarrow races, tug of war, sack races and other competitive lawn games. Don’t forget to relax and enjoy a collaborative game of graces or try your hand at the old fashion hoop and stick! Make the decision to nourish your health and well-being this summer and make a new memory at Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. These free games will be available in the Plaza de Armas throughout the day, no reservations required.

pastimes in Old town San Diego
  • Where to meet: Plaza de Armas
  • What to bring: Closed toe shoes
  • What to expect: Sunshine, 1st place and participation ribbons, and fun for the whole family! 

 

An Old Fashioned Fourth of July

California State Parks invite you to celebrate an Old Fashioned 4th of July at Old Town San Diego State Historic Park!

Friday July 4th, 2025

11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Are you looking for a FREE and fun way to celebrate the 4th of July? Bring your family and celebrate an Old Fashioned 4th of July at Old Town San Diego State Historic Park!

From 11am to 3pm, visitors can join park staff and volunteers in celebrating our country's independence with living history demonstrations, historic walking tours, and hands-on art activities!

Come play outside at Old Town San Diego State Historic Park with 19th century pastimes in the plaza! Challenge family and friends of all ages to wheelbarrow races, tug of war, sack races and other competitive lawn games. Don’t forget to relax and enjoy a collaborative game of graces or try your hand at the old fashion hoop and stick!

Arrive early for the 11am kickoff with the annual flag raising ceremony featuring local scouts. Stay and listen to live music by Billy Lee and The Swamp Critters. End the day by participating in the annual watermelon eating contest and placing a bid in this year's community-made quilt raffle.

Parking for this event is free in any of the lots surrounding Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. 

4th of july

  Join us for an Old Fashioned 4th of July at Old Town San Diego State Historic Park and make a new memory with California State Parks.

 


 Thank you to our Fourth of July Event Partners

This event is made possible through the Boosters of Old Town San Diego a non-profit organization committed to supporting history, culture, and historic preservation in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. Learn more about the Boosters of Old Town at boostersofoldtown.com.  

State Parks boosters San Diego Old Town BOOT Logo old town logo
Thank you to our benefactors 
The San Diego River Park Foundation & the Daughters of the American Revolution
 
  Daughters of American Revolution
Logo