The Delightful and Divertido Day of the Dead

Unlike Halloween, which focuses on all things scary, Dia de los Muertos (or Day of the Dead) focuses on family and friends who have passed, and remembering the joy in their lives.  The Mexican fiesta dates back to the Aztecs, and was originally celebrated at the beginning of summer, however when the Spanish colonized Mexico in the 16th century, the celebration was moved to the end of October to coincide with All Saint’s Eve.  Traditionally altars are adorned with photos of those who have died, marigolds, sugar skulls, and pastries.  This a three-day holiday which begins on October 31st and ends on November 2nd.  Being a town that was settled by the Spanish, San Diego is the perfect place to enjoy Day of the Dead.

 For a bit of fun and history mixed together head over to the Centro Cultural de la Raza in Balboa Park this Sunday (Nov. 1) and Monday (Nov. 2).  The play, ‘Journey of the Skeletons’ is a multicultural comedy that retells the history of the Day of the Dead, that young and old will enjoy.  Both entertaining and educational, the play delves into the ancient Aztec history that evolved into today’s Day of the Dead celebration.  Tickets start at $12 for adults and $10 for children, students, and seniors.  Sunday’s show starts at 7:00 pm and Monday’s performance will begin at 8:00 pm.  

On Monday, November 2nd, from 7:30 to 9:00 p.m. the Amigos del REP (the San Diego Repertory Theatre) will perform ‘Historias Tenebrosas’ (Sinister Tales).  The Lyceum Space Theater downtown will be transformed into a multistage maze where the audience will be led  from stage to stage to hear different myths, folktales and chilling stories acted out by performers.  This evening, meant for people of all ages, will have you shrieking and laughing, and is completely free.  In the tradition of Dia de los Muertos, there will be chocolate con pan dulce (hot chocolate and pastries), as well as candy and face painting.  

 La Vista Memorial Park Mortuary in the National City neighborhood will host its 7th annual Dia de los Muertos on November 1st (from noon to 10:00 pm) and November 2nd (6:00-9:00 p.m.).   This event has grown to be the largest San Diego Day of the Dead festivity on cemetery grounds.  It’s a free jubilee, that will have lively music, singing, and folk dancing.  Come hungry as there will be yummy food and hand crafted gifts to purchase.  Spending an evening in a cemetery, celebrating life and those who have departed, in a joyous way, is the epitome of Day of the Dead.  

From October 31st to November 2nd, Old Town San Diego will be filled with non-stop Dia de los Muertos activities.  Free crafts, such as paper flower making and decorating your own paper mask, will be enjoyed by the young and young at heart.  More advanced crafts like painting plastic sugar skulls ($5-10) and making and decorating paper mache masks ($10-15) will also be available.   There will be over 40 traditional and contemporary altars set up for display and on November 2nd there will be a candle light procession from Whaley House to the cemetery (electric candles will be for sale at several places in Old Town).  Visitors are encouraged to come dressed in Day of the Dead costumes and if you don’t have a costume, you can have your face painted to resemble a sugar skull.  There will be music, dancing and more happy ways to honor those who have passed.  

 Dia de los Muertos manages to combine the words of the living and the un-living in a muy divertido (super fun), non-frightening way.  We love all the lively happenings this coming weekend that will focus on this Spanish Aztec tradition.  Why not spend the whole Day of the Dead festivities anchored at a Mission Bay vacation rental, where you can choose which of these jovial events you’ll want to haunt?  Chances are, you’ll want to stop by all of them.  

Spook-tacular Times in San Diego

The history of Halloween goes back about 2,000 years to the Celts who lived in Ireland, the United Kingdom and northern France and their Samhain celebration on November 1st.  They believed the night before Samhain, the dead returned as ghosts, so the living would leave food and wine on their doorsteps to keep the ghosts at bay.   The Celts would also wear masks when they went outside, so the ghosts would mistake them for fellow spirits.  The traditional family-friendly Halloween that we know really began in the 1950s.  In honor and the more tame version of All Hallow’s Eve San Diego will be hosting some spine-chilling and spooky activities this weekend.

Ghouls and boys of all ages are going to love a visit to Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography and their ‘Haunted Aquarium.’   From 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm this Friday and Saturday (Oct 23rd & 24th), they will transform their halls into an eerie, yet highly entertaining, educational party.  Rarely seen sea creatures such as the Humboldt Squid (renamed ‘Frankensquid,’ of course), glowing sea-deep fish, skeleton shrimp and sea spiders.   

Kids will be able to make and take home their own version of slime from seaweed, as well as other creepy crafts.  Costume prizes for those in the best (family-friendly) costumes will be handed out, and the cafe will be open until 8:30pm in case you feel peckish.  Billy Lee and the Swamp Critters band will also keep the party hopping with live music.  Tickets can be bought online for $17 or $19 at the door.  

 The Maritime Museum will be hosting ‘Haunted Tales of our Seafaring Past’ this Saturday (Oct 24th) and next Saturday (Oct. 31st).  You can decide if the Star of India is haunted as your tour guide leads you through the ship with a lantern.  Tour the Star of India as you hear ghost stories from the ship’s past.  Tours guides will lead you through by lantern and entertain you with tales of ghost sightings and unexplained phenomenons.    The tours begin at 6:00 pm and occur every 15 minutes, with the last one beginning at 9:15 pm.  

 For those who love Jack-O’-Lanterns and all the imaginative designs the carved gourd can take on, then The Rise is the event for you.  Taking place in New York, Los Angeles and San Diego, professional artists have hand carve thousands of pumpkins for display.  The Rise of the Jack-O’-Lantern will be at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park this weekend (Oct. 23-25th) from 6:30 to 10:30 pm.   Over 5,000 illuminated Jack-O’-Lanterns will be displayed on a scenic trail (1/3 mile), including a dragon made up of hundreds of pumpkins that is over 50 feet long!  Advanced tickets are required and prices start at $30.

 This weekend and next weekend Belmont Park in Mission Bay will transform itself into ‘Boomont Park,’ for its third annual Halloween celebration.  On Friday from 6:30 to 7:30 pm and Saturday and Sunday from 1:30 to 2:30 pm and 6:30 to 7:30 pm there will be free trick or treating, and a costume contest on Saturday at 5:00 pm.  Speaking of costumes, kids dressed with receive a free kids meal at the WaveHouse with the purchase of an adult meal.  There will be the Booming Manor Haunted House (recommended for kids ages 7 to 12), a pumpkin patch where you can paint your purchased pumpkin for free, and Laser Tag will have a ghoulish makeover with zombies lurking around every corner.   One of the more entertaining events for spectators and participants will be at the Zip Line and Rock Wall, where people dressed as superheroes will get 50% off tickets.  Check out their website for even more events and details.  

Downtown will get a hair-raising spin with the ‘Ghosts of the Gaslamp Walking Tour’ on Friday, Oct. 30th.  The tour happens every Friday at 5:00 pm, but we think the night before Halloween is the perfect  eve  to step out and learn about the horrifying history of Gaslamp Quarter.  Reservations need to be made at the latest the Thursday before at 4:00 pm for the half-mile tour.  A historian will lead you through hotels, funeral parlors, saloons and end at the Willian Heath Davis House (one of the most haunted buildings in San Diego) all the while relating frightening stories from their past.   Adult tickets are $20, kids range from $10 to $8 (7 and under are free), with discounts for seniors and active military, and college students. 

For a bit of culture spooky culture, head over to Copley Symphony Hall to watch The Nightmare Before Christmas and here the San Diego Symphony Orchestra perform Danny Elfman’s score for the film.  The movie will be projected on a big screen with the dialogue and the orchestra will accompany the film’s unforgettable soundtrack.   The film will be shown on Friday (Oct. 30th) at 8:00 pm and Saturday (Oct 31st) at 5:00 pm and tickets start at $20.  On Friday, everyone is encouraged to dress up and arrive early (7:15 pm) for a fun costume contest.  

All things creepy-crawly and trick-or-treating don’t need to be limited to one night of the year.  This year for All Hallow’s Eve, San Diego has something for everyone.  How about a celebrating Halloween by the sea in one of our not-haunted residents at Mission Bay?  You’ll be close to all the chilling, nightmarish, and overall enjoyable action for the next 10 days.

Catching a Bite

The San Diego coastline is dotted with some remarkable piers. We have the longest wooden pier (Oceanside) and the longest concrete structure (Ocean Beach) on the West Coast.  Our piers aren’t just for taking in breathtaking vistas, we’ve also got some great food joints on some of them as well.  Take advantage of the cooler temperatures and longer days (Daylight Saving Time won’t kick in until November 1st) with a leisurely meal outside.  

Oceanside has the second longest pier in San Diego (1,942 feet long) and is the farthest north pier in the county.  A quick 40 minute drive north from Mission Bay will take you to an expansive beach with a pier that has an old-time feel, but don’t be fooled, this sturdy structure was built in 1988.  The retro look has a lot to do with the 1950’s style diner, Ruby’s, located at the very  end of the pier.  Ruby’s consistently delivers thick, delicious shakes, tasty burgers and fries.  However, Ruby’s secret weapon is their unbelievable breakfasts.  From their French toast made from thick slices of their cinnamon rolls or hearty omelettes stuffed with thick-cut bacon, cheese, avocado and served with ‘housemade’ salsa, you cannot make a wrong choice here.   They’re open from 7:00 am to 9:00 pm (except on Friday and Saturday they close at 10:00pm) and breakfast is served until 11:30am.  

San Diego’s longest pier is the T-shaped structure in Ocean Beach, which was constructed in 1966.  Step back in time at the Ocean Beach Pier Cafe, which sits halfway down the pier. Here you will find a no-frills cafe, with a friendly staff and generous portions.   Order the perfectly sweet chocolate chip pancakes for breakfast or the enormous breakfast burrito.  For lunch try the famous lobster tacos while you take in views of surfers below.  An added bonus: locals claim that this is the best coffee in Ocean Beach.  Keeping in tune with OB’s party vibe, the pier is open 24 hours, however the Ocean Beach Pier Cafe is open from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm. 

Our southern most pier in the city and on the West Coast of the United States can be found at Imperial Beach.  On clear days, as you stroll down the pier, you can catch a glimpse of Mexico and Los Coronados Islands.  The Tin Fish is a tasty restaurant at the end of Imperial Beach Pier, with panoramic views of the ocean.  Casual fare like fish and chips (waffle fries) are served in baskets with their savory home made sauce.  All the fish tacos are amazing, and for the adventurous eater, you do not want to miss the grilled calamari tacos.   Open from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm, The Tin Fish will make you feel like you’re eating in the middle of the ocean. 

Although not technically over the water, Pier 32 Waterfront Grill, made our list thanks to their  their delectable food and views of the marina and harbor.  You can dine inside, but our choice is always to eat al fresco, especially with the outside heat lamps that ensure comfortable eating, no matter how chilly it might get.  Feast on garlic fries or any one of the grilled sandwiches.  This is a place you’ll want to bring the little ones for sure, as they have a giant sand box next to the restaurant where they will enjoy playing.  They’re open for lunch from 11:00am to 2:00pm Monday through Thursday, Friday from 11:00 to 7:00pm, and on Saturday and Sunday they’re open from 9:00am to 7:00 pm.

There’s nothing quite like sitting over the ocean, feeling the sea breeze, and enjoying a delicious meal.  You might even consider a Pier Pilgrimage so you can sample all of these great restaurants.  If you’re staying in Mission Bay at one of our Vacation Rentals you’ll be surrounded by all these enjoyable eateries, not to mention the gorgeous views that await at the end of these piers.

Oktoberfest in San Diego

We are at the height of celebrating Oktoberfest which means it’s time to fill your stein with foamy drafts and tucking into warm, doughy pretzels this weekend.  This ‘holiday’ stems back to the wedding of Crown Prince Ludwig (later King Ludwig I) on October 12 in 1810 in the state of Bavaria.  However, there’s more to this ‘fest than drinking beer, especially in San Diego.  There are some great family-oriented activities that will be enjoyed by herr, frau and kinder alike.

Although Ocean Beach doesn’t have a lot in common with the thick forests of Bavaria, this Friday and Saturday (October 9 and 10th), the base of the pier will be turned into a German village on the shore.  This is the 11th year Ocean Beach has hosted O.B. Oktoberfest, and this year promises to be the best one yet.  The two-day festival begins Friday at 4:20pm and goes until 11pm that night.  The fun begins again on Saturday at 9am with a 2K family run, which benefits the Ocean Beach Community Foundation, which promotes local youth sports.  

 Friday’s festivities will be geared toward the 21-and-over crowd with live music and a beer garden complete with German microbrew tastings.  Saturday morning kicks off will two races, the family 2K ($25 covers a family of six people) or the 5K, which starts at 10:00am and has a $30 fee.  Entry in the races will gain you access to the day’s activities and those runner who are over 21 will receive two complimentary beers.   

A traditional German band will be playing  ‘Oom-Pah' music to get the crowds in the mood for a fun-filled day.  The whole family will love the different contests, such as the annual Sausage Toss Competition for a chance to win $10,000, as well as the food and craft vendors.  There will  be a shuttle running from the beachside festival to various locations around San Diego to cut down on driving (check out the map HERE for more info).  The $5 entry fee is good for both days.  

A short 20 minute drive east of Mission Bay is El Cajon and their three-day Oktoberfest party.  From October 9th to the 11th, you’ll feast on bratwurst, potato pancakes, sauerkraut and pastries, listen to the Guggenbach-Buam band (who flew in from Germany!), and sample their German beers (if you’re over 21, of course).  No Oktoberfest is complete without the Chicken Dance.  That’s right, this funny song has been part of the German celebration for the last two decades.  The kinder will love the colorful folk dances, all the sing-alongs, and the Kid Zone.  There will be games, contests, craft booths, and more, that will make you feel like you’ve been transported to Bavaria.  If you are under 21 or active military duty, the event is free, for everyone else it’s $5 to enter.   

 Next Sunday, October 18th, you can take part in a truly unique way to celebrate Oktoberfest at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park.  You can celebrate with the animals, while having a delicious dinner buffet in the Nairobi Village and listening to live music from 5:00 to 7:00pm.   The regular entry fee is required in addition to the meal price, (Safari Park member’s pay $44.95 for adults and $18.95 for kids, while adult non-members are $57.95 and non-member kids are $31.95), but when else can you say that you celebrated a Bavarian holiday that dates back over 200 years while gazing at an African savannah?

 If you want to indulge in authentic and delicious German fare on a non-Oktoberfest day, than head over to Kaiserhof, a German pub and restaurant that feels like you’ve entered a  cottage in the Black Forest.  Even if you don’t normally crave sauerkraut (their’s is especially yummy though) and goulash, this place is worth a visit for the charming, warm atmosphere alone (but the food is darn good, too).  Although there are many notable items on the menus (the bar menu differs a little from the main restaurant), the apple strudel is a not-to-missed item.  And, did we mention they have an extensive selection of German beers on tap?    

 This is the perfect weekend to be brushing up on those few Deutsche words that you might know (like ‘danke schoen!’) and getting ready for some hearty German dishes.  Mission Bay Vacation Rentals can be ‘home base’ you as you hit all the festivities.  Remember, this might be the only time of the year where the ‘chicken dance’ is mandatory fun, so you won’t want to be left out.  

Kids Free San Diego!

Around 30 years ago, the San Diego Zoo started to offer free entry for kids during October to boost sales during a normally slow month.  That tradition has now expanded to over 100 companies over San Diego county for the entire month of October.   “Kids Free San Diego” offers everything from free food to free museum tours and even rides on the Amtrak train for kids with an accompanying paid adult.  

Most companies restrict the deal to two free children for every one adult, except for the San Diego Zoo, which only specifies that the amount of children per paying adult must be within reason.  Either way, it’s an amazing opportunity for friendly family fun that doesn’t break the bank.  

Check out a complete list of participating companies HERE and specifically which museums (there are over 40!) which will have free entry HERE.  Note that some places, like the Birch Aquarium, require you either download or print out the coupon in order to take advantage of the deal.  A lot of places define a child as ’12 and under,’ however some places like the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park limit the age to '11 and under.’  

If you’ve ever wanted to book a week for the family at Mission Bay Vacation Rentals, now is the time.  There are enough fun activities and meals to last beyond a seven-day stay.  Below is a list of our favorite picks:

 Belmont Park

Our favorite amusement park is chock full of deals this month!  Kids will receive an Unlimited Ride wristband with the purchase of one full priced adult Unlimited Ride wristband.  With the purchase of an adult unlimited laser tag wristband, one child will also receive an unlimited laser tag wristband.  Kids will love the free cotton candy they get when an adult buys an ice cream cone at The Sweet Shoppe.   You must print out the Coupon (HERE) to redeem these goodies and more!

Restaurant Deals

If you visit the Patio on Lamont during breakfast, kids will get free pancakes with the purchase of an adult breakfast.

If you’ve ever wanted to try the delicious and upscale Brazilian barbecue, Fogo de Chao Brazilian Steakhouse, then this is the month to do it.  Children receive one complimentary  dinner with the purchase of an adult full-priced churrasco dinner, or entree.

For ‘shopaholics,’ Bloomingdales is letting kids eat free at their cafe.  So the whole family will benefit when you need to take a break from a shopping spree for some grub.

Museums & Culture

As we mentioned before, there are over 40 museums taking part in this amazing deal.  Balboa Park will be especially fun for the whole family, as most of their museums will offer up to two free children’s entry for every one paying adult.   You can visit as many museums as you like, just be sure you print out a coupon for the museum you want to visit.  Here are a few that we are especially excited about sharing with the kids:  

The New Children's Museum

USS Midway Museum

Japanese Friendship Garden

San Diego Museum of Art

San Diego Air & Space Museum

Family Entertainment

For every one adult full-priced ‘Adult Hopper’ ticket bought to LEGOLAND, you will get one free ‘Child Hopper’ ticket.  The ‘Hopper’ tickets allow you entry to LEGOLAND, LEGOLAND Water Park, and SEA LIFE Aquarium.  

The San Diego Zoo started it all and the fact that they let more than two children in per one paying adult is pretty awesome.  Just note that the Zoo as well as the San Diego Safari Park define children as 11 and under.  

For educational fun, the lovely Birch Aquarium in La Jolla will engage visitors of all ages.  Just be sure you print out your coupon before you go.  

On the Sea

Two kids can ride free with Flagship Cruises and Events per paid adult for all one and two-hour San Diego Harbor Tours.   

October will be the month that the whole family should learn to surf thanks to Surf Diva La Jolla, where every private surf lesson bought for an adult or child, another child will receive a free private lesson as well. 

Everyday California offers tours and rentals for kayaking and snorkeling, as well as paddle boarding and surfboard rentals.   For every paying adult, one child will be free.    

The whole fam will love taking a gondola cruise through San Diego Bay from the Gondola Company.  Up to four kids ride free for every paying adult couple.   

Take a one or two-hour cruise on Hornblower Cruises and two kids will ride free per adult.   

 By Land & Air

The Amtrak Pacific Surfline train hugs the coast of Southern California for stunning views as it makes its way to San Diego.  This month, one child will receive a free ticket per adult. 

For the truly adventurous,  Corporate Helicopters are offering one free child ride per paying adult for a 30-minute ride over San Diego, but you will need to have a minimum of two adults booked per ride. 

Take a ride on one of San Diego’s charming trolleys through Old Town or La Jolla and Mission Bay on the Old Town Trolley Tours.  For every paying adult, one child will be able to ride for free.