January is packed with exciting events across San Diego, offering something for everyone. Whether you're looking to experience the arts, enjoy live music, or participate in unique cultural celebrations, this guide highlights some of the most anticipated events to start the new year right.

Highlighted January Activities:

San Diego Rodeo (Jan 12 - Jan 14, 2025)
The San Diego Padres, C5 Rodeo Company Inc, and Outriders Present are hosting the first rodeo at Petco Park.

Farmers Insurance Open (Jan 22 - Jan 25, 2025)
The Farmers Insurance Open, part of the PGA TOUR, takes place annually at Torrey Pines Golf Course in La Jolla, known for hosting the U.S. Open in 2008 and 2021. This premier event combines stunning views, world-class golf, and a memorable experience.

soundON Festival (Jan 9 - Jan 11, 2025)
San Diego New Music and the Athenaeum Music & Arts Library host the soundON Festival, showcasing innovative contemporary music from global artists. This year highlights music by San Diego composer Adam Greene and includes a new piece by Mark Menzies, commissioned by the Athenaeum and supported by Garna Muller.

San Diego Brew Fest (Jan 11, 2025
The San Diego Brew Festival is back, featuring over 70 breweries, 200 beers, top local food trucks, cover bands, and lawn games at NTC Park.

Poway Winter Festival (Jan 10 - Jan 11, 2025)
From building snowmen and sledding to roasting marshmallows, enjoying a photo booth, or skating on a synthetic rink, there's something for everyone to enjoy!

San Diego Resolution Run 5K / 10K / Half Marathon (Jan 11, 2025)
The Annual San Diego Resolution Run offers 5K, 10K, and Half Marathon courses through scenic Mission Bay. Participants can explore a wellness village featuring healthy food and partner products and receive a t-shirt, custom medal, and chip-timed results.

SeaWorld Inside Look (Jan 11 - Jan 20, 2025)
This event offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to operate and maintain a leading zoological institution like SeaWorld San Diego.

Borrego Springs Film Festival  (Jan 15 - Jan 19, 2025)
The Borrego Springs Film Festival is a popular Southern California event showcasing juried films in categories such as narrative, documentary, animation, Latino, and short films, all on a large screen with vibrant community support.

San Diego Underground Film Festival (Jan 18 - Jan 19, 2025)
The San Diego Underground Film Festival features experimental films, videos, and live performances. The ninth edition offers a dynamic program with underground narratives, experimental works, live music, and projector performances by local and international artists.

Kids Marathon Mile at LEGOLAND California (Jan 18, 2025)
LEGOLAND® California Resort and In Motion present the 2025 Kids Marathon Mile, a fun 1-mile run for kids of all abilities. Participants can run, walk, skip, stroll, or be carried as they navigate the theme park to the finish line.

Carlsbad Marathon & Half Marathon (Jan 19, 2025)
A scenic winter race with beautiful ocean views, excellent course support, and lively entertainment, making for an unforgettable Martin Luther King Jr. holiday weekend run-cation.

Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade (Jan 19, 2025)
The Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Parade on Harbor Drive is one of the largest celebrations in the U.S. honoring Dr. King. The event features vibrant floats, high school bands, drill teams, colleges, fraternities, sororities, churches, and peace organizations. This year’s festivities also include a MLK 5K Walk/Fun Run and Festival.

Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day (Jan 20, 2025)
Martin Luther King Jr. remains one of the most respected African-American leaders in history. This celebration honors his enduring messages, which continue to resonate in the United States and globally.

San Diego Lunar New Year Festival (Jan 24 - Jan 26, 2025)
Ring in the new year with dragon and lion dances, firecrackers, games, food, and more in a festive celebration!

Mardi Gras at SeaWorld San Diego (Jan 25 - Mar 2, 2025)
Celebrate Mardi Gras with live music, vibrant costumes, and delicious Creole and Cajun food in a lively New Orleans-style carnival. “Laissez le bon temps rouler!”

San Diego International Jewish Film Festival (Jan 27 - Feb 8, 2025)
The festival features a curated selection of top contemporary Jewish-related films and is recognized as one of the most prestigious Jewish film festivals in the country.