Tag: events

Fun sculptures debut at San Diego waterfront park!

Children delight in a fun work of art unveiled today on San Diego's beautiful waterfront!
Children delight in a fun work of art unveiled today on San Diego’s beautiful waterfront!

Three super fun sculptures made their debut this morning on San Diego’s waterfront! They’re located in the wonderful, huge one-year-old park that surrounds the County Administration Building. Created by world-renowned artist Niki de Saint Phalle, the pieces are on long term loan from the Niki Charitable Art Foundation to the County of San Diego.

Niki de Saint Phalle, born in France in 1930, loved San Diego and adopted it as her own. Several of her imaginative works can be seen around the city. In the past I’ve blogged about a few of her pieces. Here and here.

As someone said during today’s opening ceremony, Niki would love the idea of children romping on her playful sculptures. She believed that art should not be segregated from everyday life. Public art was very important to Niki.

San Diego County Supervisor Ron Roberts introduces those responsible for some great new public art.
San Diego County Supervisor Ron Roberts introduces those responsible for the installation of great new public art.
Ron Roberts and the great granddaughter of renowned artist Niki de Saint Phalle reveal a sculpture titled 19 Baseball Player.
Ron Roberts and the great granddaughter of renowned artist Niki de Saint Phalle reveal a sculpture titled #19 Baseball Player.
It's Tony Gwynn, Mr. Padre! The sculpture was unveiled the day after Tony would've turned 55 years old.
It’s Tony Gwynn, Mr. Padre! The sculpture was unveiled the day after Tony would’ve turned 55 years old.
San Diego's beloved baseball legend Tony Gwynn holds a bat and faces a very large pitching mound (with slides)!
San Diego’s beloved baseball legend Tony Gwynn holds a bat and faces a very large pitching mound (with fun slides)!
Another very cool sculpture draws a crowd for its public debut at the San Diego County Administration Center.
Another very cool sculpture draws a crowd during its public debut at the San Diego County Administration Center.
Niki de Saint Phalle's 1999 Cat is made of fiberglass, resin, steel armature, ceramic tiles, tumbled stones, stained and mirrored glass.
Niki de Saint Phalle’s 1999 Cat is made of fiberglass, resin, steel armature, ceramic tiles, tumbled stones, stained and mirrored glass.
Kids play on a newly installed fat hollow Cat. The interactive sculpture sits next to the playground in San Diego's super cool, one-year-old waterfront park!
Kids play on a newly installed fat hollow Cat. The interactive sculpture sits next to the playground in San Diego’s super popular, one-year-old waterfront park!
Look at this! It's the colorful Serpent Tree! Rising like a huge multi-headed Hydra on the north side of the park, it's hard to miss!
Look at this! It’s the colorful Serpent Tree! Rising like a huge multi-headed Hydra on the north side of the park, it’s hard to miss!
Another fun addition to San Diego's already awesome Embarcadero. Lots of people are certain to enjoy these fantastic sculptures!
Another fun addition to San Diego’s already awesome Embarcadero. Lots of people will enjoy these fantastic sculptures!

UPDATE!

I was walking past Waterfront Park in 2018 when I suddenly noticed the cat sculpture had been replaced with a seal! When I spoke to a security guy, he said someone fell madly in love with Cat and purchased it!

Here are photos of the fun replacement sculpture, Large Seal (element of Seals), 1999…

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Pics of Garden Party of the Century in Balboa Park!

Child gives potted plant to spectator during floral wagon parade in Balboa Park.
Child gives potted plant to spectator during floral wagon parade in Balboa Park.

It was a memorable day in Balboa Park!

To celebrate its centennial, San Diego’s historic Balboa Park is throwing a number of special events this year. Today our beautiful park was the scene of the Garden Party of the Century. And what a party it was!

As the title suggests, the emphasis was on gardening and the many incredible gardens of our world-class urban park. Spring flowers filled every corner, and lots of people came out to enjoy excellent exhibits. A unique parade also took place, as you’ll see in the following photographs.

The event’s main ceremony involved Marines from San Diego’s Marine Corps Recruit Depot, which is perhaps a mile (or two) from the park. The Marines played an instrumental role during the early days of Balboa Park, which was created for the 1915 Panama-California Exposition. The mere presence of a Marine camp inside the large park back then eventually helped to preserve many of the wonderful old Spanish Colonial Revival-style buildings visitors marvel at today.

Many tents with horticulture exhibits were around Balboa Park for the Garden Party of the Century. Some can be seen next to the Botanical Building.
Many tents with horticulture exhibits were around Balboa Park for the Garden Party of the Century. Some can be seen next to the Botanical Building.
These friendly folks explained that dahlia blooms can be as large as fourteen inches!
These friendly folks explained that dahlia blooms can be as large as fourteen inches!
Displays concerning gardening were front and center during the special Balboa Park Centennial event.
Displays concerning gardening were front and center during the special Balboa Park Centennial event.
These master gardeners showed me what a ladybird larva looks like! (It's the critter on the right.)
These master gardeners showed me what a ladybird larva looks like! (It’s the critter on the right.)
There were lots of flower arrangements and botany-themed art throughout the park!
There were lots of flower arrangements and botany-themed art throughout the park!
It's still early in the morning, so some exhibitors are still setting up near the reflecting pool.
It’s still early in the morning, so some exhibitors are still setting up near the reflecting pool.
This super cool lady talked to me about the work of the City of San Diego Environmental Services Department.
This super cool lady talked to me about the work of the City of San Diego Environmental Services Department.
Smiling lady from the San Diego Epiphyllum Society.
Smiling lady from the San Diego Epiphyllum Society.
Lots of plants were for sale in the park, including on the Casa del Prado patio.
Lots of plants were for sale in the park, including on the Casa del Prado patio.
Ducks and baby ducklings were swimming about the lily pads in the Balboa Park reflecting pool!
Ducks and baby ducklings were swimming about the lily pads in the Balboa Park reflecting pool!
Sign shows the way to the Rose Garden across Park Boulevard.
Sign shows the way to the Rose Garden across Park Boulevard.
One example of Balboa Park's Adopt-A-Plot volunteer gardening program--this plot is in Sefton Plaza.
One example of Balboa Park’s Adopt-A-Plot volunteer gardening program. This plot is in Sefton Plaza.
A photo I took this morning of beautiful flower beds in the Alcazar Garden.
A photo I took this morning of beautiful flower beds in the Alcazar Garden.
Another exhibitor near the Moreton Bay Fig Tree and Natural History Museum has a cool trash can painted with flowers and a bee.
Another exhibitor near the huge Moreton Bay Fig Tree and Natural History Museum has a cool trash can painted with flowers and a bee.
The Navy was showcasing its environmental programs.
The Navy was showcasing its environmental programs.
Marines cross street in front of the Casa del Prado Theatre building.
Marines cross street in front of the Casa del Prado Theater.
The floral wagon parade staged in a parking lot by the Balboa Park carousel.
The floral wagon parade was staged in a parking lot by the Balboa Park carousel.
Musicians stand ready for the beginning of the big parade through Balboa Park.
Musicians stand ready for the beginning of the big parade through Balboa Park.
San Diego's own Fern Street Circus has gathered for the parade holding colorful banners.
San Diego’s own Fern Street Circus has gathered for the parade holding colorful banners.
Other performers from the Fern Street Circus wait a bit further down the parade route for the spectacle to begin.
Other performers from the Fern Street Circus wait a bit further down the parade route for the spectacle to begin.
The Garden Party of the Century Parade is underway and turning onto El Prado!
The Garden Party of the Century Parade is underway and turning onto El Prado!
Kids, families, wagons and flowers. An overcast day after our recent stormy weather.
Kids, families, wagons and flowers. An overcast day after our recent stormy weather.
Here come drummers and a flag down the festive parade route!
Here come drummers and a flag down the festive parade route!
Look at the boldly colored dresses and fantastic costumes!
Look at the boldly colored dresses and fantastic costumes!
Here come some lush, wonderful floral wagons.
Here come some lush, wonderful floral wagons.
Garden Party of the Century parade turns the corner and heads down El Prado toward Plaza de Panama.
Garden Party of the Century parade turns the corner and heads down El Prado toward Plaza de Panama.
Flower-laden wagons pass in front of ornate Casa del Prado.
Flower-laden wagons pass in front of ornate Casa del Prado facade.
A bee is followed by a beekeeper!
A bee is followed by a beekeeper!
The parade approaches the reflecting pool as it passes booths lining El Prado.
The parade approaches the reflecting pool as it passes booths that line El Prado.
This lady in an elegant old-fashioned dress was handing out goodies to the watching crowd.
This lady in an elegant old-fashioned dress was handing out goodies to the watching crowd.
A painter in Balboa Park gets an eyeful as the parade passes by.
A painter in Balboa Park gets an eyeful as the parade passes by.
Uncle Sam and lots of other happy San Diegans.
Uncle Sam and lots of other happy San Diegans.
Dr. Seuss seems to be a favorite author of the City of San Diego Park and Recreation Department!
Dr. Seuss seems to be a favorite author of the City of San Diego Park and Recreation Department!
The cool parade finally reaches the Plaza de Panama in front of the San Diego Museum of Art.
The cool parade finally reaches the spacious Plaza de Panama in front of the San Diego Museum of Art.
A second parade nears! Marines from San Diego's MCRD march down El Prado for a special historic ceremony.
A second parade nears! Marines from San Diego’s MCRD march down El Prado for a special ceremony.
The band leads the way as marchers from the Marine Corps Recruit Depot enter Plaza de Panama.
The band leads the way as marchers from the Marine Corps Recruit Depot enter Plaza de Panama.
The Marines played an important role in Balboa Park's beginning, and are duplicating their march from 100 years ago!
The Marines played an important role in Balboa Park’s beginning, and are duplicating their march from 100 years ago!
Marines stand at attention before San Diego mayor, MCRD commandant and other dignitaries speak during the special Balboa Park Centennial event.
Marines stand at attention. The San Diego mayor, MCRD commandant and other dignitaries spoke during the special Balboa Park Centennial event.
Civilian and military bystanders look on as a memorable San Diego event is taking place.
Civilian and military bystanders look on as a memorable San Diego event is taking place.
Proudly marching Marines head west down El Prado toward California Tower and Museum of Man.
Proudly marching Marines head west down El Prado toward California Tower and Museum of Man.
Marines start across the Cabrillo Bridge to reproduce a famous photograph from one hundred years ago!
Marines start across the Cabrillo Bridge to reproduce a famous photograph from one hundred years ago!

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Art made of coins helps Rady Children’s Hospital!

Never Stop Dreaming. It's the face of Mickey Mouse made of quarters!
Never Stop Dreaming. It’s the face of Mickey Mouse made of quarters!

Today a very special event took place: the Miracle Mile of Quarters!

Every year, the Division 100 Miracle Mile of Quarters Kiwanis Club San Diego (that’s quite a mouthful) raises money for Rady Children’s Hospital in a unique way. Thousands of patiently collected quarters are used by local kids to create works of inspirational art!  The money is then donated to the hospital!

I took some pics of the glittering artwork late this morning.  I thought you might enjoy them.

Would you like to help others with this important effort? Rady Children’s Hospital has saved thousands of young lives over the years. Click here and become a hero!

Judges look at the highly original artwork. Kids assembled quarters collected by local Kiwanis Club Divisions.
Judges look at the fun, original artwork. Kids assembled quarters collected by local Kiwanis Club Divisions.
Division 100 Miracle Mile of Quarters Kiwanis Club San Diego created this annual event to raise money for Rady Children's Hospital.
Division 100 Miracle Mile of Quarters Kiwanis Club San Diego created this annual event to raise money for Rady Children’s Hospital.
Inspiration Fountain in front of the pediatric hospital shows children flying kites.
Inspiration Fountain in front of the pediatric hospital shows children flying kites.
Photo of beautiful Rady Children's Hospital in San Diego, California. This is a world-class life-saving medical facility that touches thousands of lives.
Photo of beautiful Rady Children’s Hospital in San Diego, California. This is a world-class life-saving medical facility that touches thousands of lives.
Kiwanis International, founded in Detroit, Michigan, is 100 years old!
Kiwanis International, founded in Detroit, Michigan, is 100 years old!
Artwork fashioned from shiny silver coins depicts two infants.
Artwork fashioned from shiny silver coins depicts two infants.
Rady is the sixth largest children’s hospital in the country! It was established in 1954.
Rady is the sixth largest children’s hospital in the country! It was established in 1954.
A dolphin and a heart glitter in the sunshine.
A dolphin and a heart glitter in the sunshine.
Kids (and adults) created fun artwork with the quarters. Millions of dollars have been raised over the years.
Kids (and adults) created unique artwork with the quarters. Millions of dollars have been raised over the years.
Absolutely anyone can help out when it comes to a good cause! Kiwanis is celebrating its centennial this year.
Absolutely anyone can help out when it comes to a good cause! Kiwanis is celebrating its centennial this year.
Hundreds of coins form one huge happy coin!
Hundreds of coins form one huge happy coin!
Discover the Cure!
Discover the Cure!
Service is Timeless.
Service is Timeless.
A chef made of coins serves up a Kiwanis birthday cake!
A chef made of coins serves up a Kiwanis birthday cake!
Most of the artwork emphasized service.
Most of the artwork emphasized service.
Do you want to build a future?
Do you want to build a future?
Bright coins on the long red carpet form different imaginative works of art.
Bright coins on the long red carpet form thoughtful works of art.
Young lady places coins to form a cool image as the art competition nears its conclusion.
Young lady places coins to form a cool image as the art competition nears its conclusion.
Unlock your heart with service.
Unlock your heart with service.
Be a hero for your community.
Be a hero for your community.
Key leaders take the risk.
Key leaders take the risk.
Like Big Hero 6, service is super!
Like Big Hero 6, service is super!
Kirby is going to smash difficult diseases!
Kirby is going to smash difficult diseases!
Robot Hope and robot -ful.
Robot Hope and robot -ful.
The Miracle Mile of Quarters is a wonderful San Diego tradition.
The Miracle Mile of Quarters is a special San Diego tradition.

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First annual Earth Day on the Bay in San Diego.

Our big blue marble Earth dangles in the sky on San Diego's Embarcadero for an Earth Day event.
Our big blue marble Earth dangles in the sky on San Diego’s Embarcadero for an Earth Day event.

Last weekend Earth Day was observed at the jam-packed EarthFair in Balboa Park. This weekend, the first annual Earth Day on the Bay took place. The event was centered around the Maritime Museum of San Diego, and concentrated on maintaining a healthy coast and ocean. Admission to all the awesome museum ships was free, and being a cheapskate, I decided to walk down to the Embarcadero and enjoy myself!

Earth Day on the Bay featured free admission to the Maritime Museum of San Diego and many environmental organizations with exhibits.
Earth Day on the Bay featured free admission to the Maritime Museum of San Diego plus many organizations with environment-themed exhibits.
The historic 1898 steam ferryboat Berkeley, the museum's hub, is also featuring nature photography by Ansel Adams and others.
The historic 1898 steam ferryboat Berkeley, the museum’s hub, is also featuring nature photography by Ansel Adams and others.
The TOPtoTOP Global Climate Expedition ship is visiting San Diego at the moment.
The TOPtoTOP Global Climate Expedition ship is visiting San Diego at the moment.

As I walked across the deck of the Berkeley, enjoying views of our beautiful big San Diego Bay, I happened to notice an unusual boat docked among the museum’s ships. The hull included the United Nations Environment Programme logo. Apparently, people participating in the TOPtoTOP Global Climate Expedition are visiting San Diego for a couple days.  They gave a talk yesterday at the museum about their mission. According to their website, it is to inspire children in classrooms and share examples of nature’s beauty, and foster innovations for a green planet. They believe that great human goals and progress can be achieved in balance with nature.

TOPtoTOP, docked by other museum ships, is equipped with many solar panels. It's sailing around the globe using only human and natural power sources.
TOPtoTOP, docked among other museum ships, is equipped with many solar panels. It’s sailing around the globe using only human and natural power sources.
The various Earth Day exhibitors on the waterfront included the Port of San Diego, with a report on their conservation and other green projects.
The various Earth Day exhibitors on the waterfront included the Port of San Diego, with a report on critical conservation and other green projects.
The first annual Earth Day on the Bay attracted a modest crowd, but it's a good start!
The first annual Earth Day on the Bay attracted a modest crowd, but it’s a good start!
This big inflatable whale allowed humans to grasp the scale of the marine mammal.
This big inflatable whale allowed humans to grasp the scale of the marine mammal.
I enjoyed a unique harbor tour on a Maritime Museum boat, which I'll blog about shortly!
I enjoyed a harbor tour on a very unique Maritime Museum boat, which I’ll blog about shortly!

I got two cool blog posts coming up! I had a couple of fun adventures today! Plus I still have lots of photos from my extensive Saturday walk around Liberty Station. I’d better get busy!

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Art, smiles and activism at 2015 EarthFair!

EarthFair was held in San Diego's Balboa Park to celebrate Earth Day.
EarthFair was held in San Diego’s Balboa Park to celebrate Earth Day.

Late this morning I took a walk through this year’s EarthFair. You might have seen my blog last year, when I posted photographs from the gigantic event. Every year EarthFair attracts tens of thousands of enthusiastic San Diegans to Balboa Park to celebrate Earth Day. It’s billed as the largest free annual environmental fair in the world, and that sounds true to me! It’s huge!

Many of the over 300 exhibitors throughout Balboa Park can be seen at the event every year, and last year I featured many in photos. So I figured this year I’d focus slightly more on close up images. Super colorful art on signs, shirts, gifts and canvases provided many opportunities for my camera. I also saw a lot of smiles!

Cool graphic on EarthFair shirt. Balboa Park attracted a huge crowd as usual!
Cool graphic on official EarthFair shirt. The annual Balboa Park event attracted a huge crowd as usual!
One many signs with environmental messages... love the Earth. Plant a tree.
One of many handmade signs with environmental messages… love the Earth. Plant a tree.
Bright sunflowers on table of urban farming advocates.
Bright sunflowers on table of urban farming advocates.
Super smile advertising the Cacaofest, celebrating the cultures behind the chocolate! I'm there!
Super smile promoting the Cacaofest, which celebrates the cultures behind the chocolate! I’m there!
Solar-powered rotating globe held in a human hand.
Solar-powered rotating globe held in a sculpted human hand.
Creating art out of perfectly good food saved from dumpsters. I blogged about these guys last year!
Creating art out of perfectly good food saved from dumpsters. I blogged about these guys last year!

Donate Don’t Dump is a project undertaken by Rob Greenfield. Check out my blog from last year, if you’d like!

A powerful smile from the artist behind Nuts and Beans are Powerful Proteins!
A powerful smile from the artist behind Nuts and Beans are Powerful Proteins!
Protecting animals was one major theme at EarthFair.
Protecting animals was one major theme at EarthFair.
This guy is Dr. Wilderness. He had a family magic show. Great outfit!
This cool guy is Dr. Wilderness. He had a family magic show. Great outfit!
This smiling Dad and daughter musical duo was raising money to help build school gardens.
This cheerful Dad and daughter musical duo was raising money to help build school gardens.
A flower and smile, and I learned how copper gives slimy snails an electrical shock!
A flower and a smile.  I learned how copper gives slimy snails an electrical shock!
A happy blue whale out of water.
A happy blue whale out of water.
Lots of tie-dye could be seen throughout Balboa Park.
Lots of tie-dye could be seen throughout Balboa Park.
Many crafts, clothes and goods for sale featured lush color and spiritual imagery from Eastern religious traditions.
Many crafts, clothes and goods for sale featured lush color and spiritual imagery from Eastern religious traditions.
A super cool painting of Mr. Padre, Tony Gwynn, created by artist Michael Rosenblatt.
A super cool painting of Mr. Padre, Tony Gwynn, created by artist Michael Rosenblatt.

Is this painting of local baseball legend Tony Gwynn awesome, or what? It has a Facebook page!

Lots of hand-crafted musical instruments were for sale.
Lots of hand-crafted musical instruments were for sale.
Some guys carry flags in preparation for a small Earth Day parade through Balboa Park.
Some guys carry flags in preparation for a small Earth Day parade through Balboa Park.
Sam Garcia, Jr. works at a canvas. Several talented artists were at work for all to see.
Sam Garcia, Jr. paints a canvas. Several talented artists were at work for all to see.
Creative kids (or adults) could color these huge panels however they pleased!
Creative kids (or adults) could color these huge panels however they pleased!
Large panels on display featured fantastic artwork, many images with a 1960s feel.
Large panels on display featured fantastic artwork, many images with a 1960s feel.
This human skull really caught my attention!
This human skull really caught my attention!
Beautiful wild animals in an exotic nature scene.
Beautiful wild animals in an exotic nature scene.
What's your sign. This panel showed activist signs photographed during 25 years of EarthFair.
What’s your sign? This panel showed activist signs photographed during the 25 years of EarthFair.
This very nice Quaker lady advocates vegetarianism.
This very nice Quaker lady advocates vegetarianism.
Kids' art shown at The Project Lennon table. The organization promotes peace and positive outlets for urban youth.
Kids’ art shown at The Project Lennon table. This organization promotes peace and positive outlets for urban youth.
Local vegan and vegetarian groups had different booths and some humorous signs.
Various vegan and vegetarian groups had different booths and some humorous signs.
I wonder what the animal rights folks would think of this. Animals used to fight poverty.
I wonder what the animal rights folks would think of this? Animals used to fight poverty and hunger!
Which one of these is the real animal. That happy parrot on top.
Which one of these is the real animal? That happy parrot on top!
Sign states that every year 30,000 species go extinct.
Sign states that every year 30,000 species go extinct.
I saw lots of banners with peace signs and rainbow colors.
I saw lots of banners with peace signs and rainbow colors.
This butterfly was flitting about in the San Diego spring breeze.
This butterfly was flitting about in the San Diego spring breeze.
Food was also a major topic, and appeared in unusual works of art.
Food was also a major topic, and appeared in unusual works of art.
This totem pole was made of recycled materials!
This totem pole was made of recycled materials!
A table in the kids activity area promoted imagination and creativity.
A table in the kids activity area promoted imagination and creativity.
Harry Eubanks of Rivers Eden paints cool art on old bits of wooden fencing.
Harry Eubanks of Rivers Eden paints cool art on old bits of wooden fencing.
Fun art from recycled everyday items in the Repair and Reuse tent.
Fun art from recycled everyday items in the Repair and Reuse tent.
The art of peace by Da Vinci, Warhol, Picasso and other famous artists.
The art of peace by Da Vinci, Warhol, Picasso, Van Gogh and other famous artists.
Arts and crafts were for sale in a large area of grass near Park Boulevard.
Arts and crafts were for sale in a large vendor area on the grass near Park Boulevard.
Lion dances would take place later in the day!
Lion dances would take place later in the day!
Volunteer today! Plant a butterfly garden in Balboa Park!
Volunteer today! Plant a butterfly garden in Balboa Park!  Do it!
Art was encouraged everywhere I turned. I enjoyed taking a walk through the 2015 EarthFair!
Art was encouraged everywhere I turned. I enjoyed taking a walk through the 2015 EarthFair!

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Daughters of American Revolution in Balboa Park.

Table includes an Exposition Cook Book, letters, activity books, and other DAR documents.
Table includes an Exposition Cook Book, letters, activity books, and other DAR documents.

When I was in middle school, I won a medal from the Daughters of the American Revolution for an essay I wrote about Francis Scott Key. I’d forgotten all about it until yesterday.

After checking out the English Village Fete at the International Cottages, I moseyed across Pan American Road to see if anything was going on in the Balboa Park Club building (which used to be the New Mexico state building during the 1915 Panama-California Exposition).

In the big Balboa Park Club Ballroom, San Diegans young and old were having a blast dancing. In the smaller Santa Fe Room, as a part of Balboa Park’s centennial events, a few smiling people were showcasing elaborate historical displays.

I was welcomed enthusiastically. The Daughters of the American Revolution San Diego Chapter was holding this event to commemorate our country’s founding and the long, interesting history of the DAR.

Fascinating material covered two rows of tables.  Many displays concerned tracing one’s ancestry and how to search historical archives. To be a member of the lineage-based organization your family tree must include a participant in the American Revolution.

The Daughters of the American Revolution has placed various historical plaques throughout San Diego over the years. I’ve documented two plaques on my blog. One is on the outside of the Santa Fe Depot. The other is in the plaza in front of Balboa Park’s Museum of Man.

The Balboa Park Club building designed to appear like an adobe in America's Southwest.
The Balboa Park Club building was designed to appear like an adobe in America’s Southwest.
Daughters of the American Revolution memorabilia exhibited in Balboa Park.
Daughters of the American Revolution memorabilia exhibited in Balboa Park.
A Daughters of the American Revolution magazine from 1916.
A Daughters of the American Revolution magazine from 1916.
Interesting graphic shows first 12 Regents of San Diego DAR.
Interesting graphic shows first 12 Regents of San Diego DAR.
Arrival in San Diego of President General of the National Society was big news in 1915.
Arrival in San Diego of President General of the National Society was big news in 1915.
A cool exhibit by an African American lady shows her rich family history.
A cool exhibit by an African American lady shows her rich family history.
Pins and medals of all sorts. Some contain the names of patriotic relations.
Pins and medals of all sorts. Some contain the names of patriotic relations.
One exhibit encourages and assists Hispanic Americans searching for their ancestors.
One poster encourages and assists Hispanic Americans searching for their ancestors.
Some beautiful quilts were out for visitors to admire.
Some beautiful quilts were out for visitors to admire.
One example of china with a 1915 San Diego Chapter emblem were on display.
Example of china produced by the San Diego Chapter in 1915.

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History lives at English Village Fete in Balboa Park.

House of England tent featured British food in San Diego, a distant corner of America.
House of England tent featured British food in San Diego, a distant corner of America.

As you might have read in my last post, lots of folks converged upon Balboa Park today in a variety of historical costumes. They were celebrating the beautiful park’s one hundred year anniversary.

Most of these participants headed to the International Cottages area in the early afternoon, where a costume parade, chivalry event, dramatic performance from Shakespeare, and other activities took place. The House of England held an English Village Fete on the lawn.

I missed most events but did capture some fun pics…

Buckingham Palace Queen's Guard in front of the House of England cottage.
Buckingham Palace Queen’s Guard in front of the House of England cottage.
British bobby on patrol talks to a gentleman at unique Balboa Park event.
British bobby on patrol talks to a gentleman at unique Balboa Park event.
Attire from different periods of history were seen at the English Village Fete.
Attire from different periods of history were seen at the English Village Fete.
Lots of Union Jacks and gifts celebrating England were for sale.
Lots of Union Jacks and gifts celebrating England were for sale.
This nice lady in a bonnet was selling honey produced in San Diego.
This nice lady in a bonnet was selling honey produced in San Diego.
There was even a model train display on the lawn during the fun event.
There was even a model train display on the lawn during the fun event.
England is a member of the House of Pacific Relations International Cottages.
England is a member of the House of Pacific Relations International Cottages.
Royal coat of arms of the United Kingdom inside the House of England cottage.
Royal coat of arms of the United Kingdom inside the House of England cottage.
People in period costumes enjoy some treats inside the small cottage.
People in period costumes enjoy some treats inside the small cottage.
Beatles display on a wall inside the House of England cottage.
Beatles display on a wall inside the House of England cottage.
A cool Alice in Wonderland exhibit features the Mad Hatter.
A cool Alice in Wonderland exhibit features the Mad Hatter.
Some guys are repositioning the Union Jack at cottage door.
Some guys are re-positioning the Union Jack at cottage door.
Sherlock Holmes tries to unravel a mystery. Who's that scruffy, suspicious-looking guy walking around taking pictures.
Sherlock Holmes tries to unravel a mystery. Who’s that scruffy, suspicious-looking guy walking around taking pictures?
Local Shakespeare expert talks about the Bard and his contributions to literature and our everyday language.
Local Shakespeare expert talks about the Bard and his contributions to literature and our everyday language.
Event attendees listen intently to a talk about the Elizabethan era.
Event attendees listen intently to a talk about the Elizabethan era.
Many penny-farthing bicycles could be spied around Balboa Park today.
Many penny-farthing bicycles could be spied around Balboa Park today.
Join us for a nice cup of tea!
Join us for a nice cup of tea!

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Victorians, suffragettes and steampunk in a park!

San Diego Costume Guild members help Balboa Park celebrate its centennial.
San Diego Costume Guild members help Balboa Park celebrate its centennial.

Today a really cool event was held in San Diego called the Balboa Park Centennial Informal Gathering. A bunch of history lovers, park supporters, assorted clubs and organizations (including the San Diego Costume Guild) gathered together in Balboa Park and everyone wore period attire. The idea was to recreate what Balboa Park might have looked like one hundred years ago, when the 1915 Panama-California Exposition opened.

During my walk through the park, I saw folks everywhere wearing fancy dresses and hats . . . carrying parasols . . . sporting old-fashioned police and military uniforms . . . wearing suffragette sashes or steampunk goggles . . . riding high-wheeled penny-farthing bicycles . . . and lots of puzzled tourists looking about in complete astonishment. It was great!

Balboa Park Centennial Celebration marks 100 years of a truly amazing place.
Balboa Park Centennial Celebration marks the 100 year anniversary of an amazing place.
Folks in old-fashioned dresses and nostalgic garb were walking up and down El Prado.
Folks in old-fashioned dresses and nostalgic garb were walking up and down El Prado.
This 19th century fashion predates 1915, the year of the Panama-California Exposition in Balboa Park,
This 19th century fashion predates 1915, the year of the Panama-California Exposition in Balboa Park,
Two elegant ladies paused to smile for my camera in the park's central plaza.
Two elegant ladies paused to smile for my camera in the park’s big central plaza.
Some people dressed for the occasion enjoying the warm San Diego sunshine.
Some people dressed for the occasion were enjoying the warm San Diego sunshine.
Lots of very fancy hats could be seen everywhere I turned.
Lots of very fancy hats could be seen everywhere I turned.
Many in historical costumes would reenact a political march in support of Votes For Women.
Later in the afternoon, folks wearing historical costumes would reenact a political march supporting Votes For Women.
Two suffragettes with Votes For Women sashes follow a guy dressed in World War I era military uniform.
Two suffragettes with Votes For Women sashes follow a guy dressed in World War I era military uniform.
Back in 1915, the right for women to vote was an important issue and movement.
Back in 1915, the right for women to vote was an important issue and movement.
A display in the Balboa Park Club building included Women's Rights memorabilia from a hundred years ago.
A display in the Balboa Park Club building included Women’s Rights memorabilia from a hundred years ago.
Some people had steampunk goggles in the International Cottages area, where event participants converged.
A few people sported steampunk goggles. Event participants converged on the International Cottages lawn area.
Visitors from Balboa Park's past seem to come to life before my very eyes.
Visitors from Balboa Park’s past seem to come to life before my very eyes.
A bustle of Victorian activity in front of the House of England cottage.
A bustle of Victorian activity in front of the House of England cottage.

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Scottish culture, history celebrated in San Diego.

Clan Logan's crest is a pierced human heart. HOC MAJORUM VIRTUS, translated from Latin is Valour of My Ancestors.
Clan Logan’s crest is a pierced human heart. HOC MAJORUM VIRTUS, translated from Latin is Valor of My Ancestors.

I’d read that the 12th Annual San Diego Tartan Day being held in Balboa Park would end at four o’clock this afternoon. So I arrived during my walk with a good hour to spare. Or so I thought! At three o’clock, the event was already drawing to a close!

I did manage to get some interesting photos. A number of tents and folks in costume were scattered about the lawn of the House of Pacific Relations International Cottages. Unfortunately, I missed the dancing and music. Maybe next year…

A robed Highlander with walking stick strides across the lawn at Balboa Park's International Cottages. Historical dresses, kilts and patterned tartans were abundant.
A robed Highlander with walking stick strides across the lawn at Balboa Park’s International Cottages. Historical dresses, kilts and distinctive tartans were abundant.
The House of Scotland in Balboa Park was the center of today's 12th Annual San Diego Tartan Day.
The House of Scotland in Balboa Park was the center of today’s 12th Annual San Diego Tartan Day.
Some leftover treats in the House of Scotland cottage as the event draws to a close.
Some leftover treats in the House of Scotland cottage as the event draws to a close.
Displays in Scotland's small cottage celebrate rich history, art and culture.
Displays in Scotland’s small cottage celebrate rich history, art and culture.
The crests of many diverse clans hang on one wall.
The crests of many diverse clans hang on one wall.
This merry fellow was looking down at cottage visitors from a spot near the ceiling.
This merry fellow was looking down at cottage visitors from a spot near the ceiling.
The Scottish Clan and Tartan Information Center drew a great deal of interest.
The Scottish Clan and Tartan Information Center was attracting a great deal of interest.
Exhibit on one outdoor table helped identify many differently patterned tartans.
Exhibit on one outdoor table helps identify many differently patterned tartans.
Participants from The Stewart Society of Edinburgh brought to life Scotland's rich heritage.
Participants from The Stewart Society of Edinburgh celebrate Scotland’s rich heritage.

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Balboa Park: The War Years comes to Auto Museum.

International M-2-4 Rocket Truck used in the Pacific during World War II.
International M-2-4 Rocket Truck used in the Pacific during World War II.

An interesting new exhibit will open this coming Friday, April 3 at the San Diego Automotive Museum. Part of this year’s Centennial Celebration, the new exhibit is called Balboa Park: The War Years. According to one website: “The (auto museum) floor will be transformed into a USO show venue to tell the story of the impact that war had on San Diego and the entire West Coast.” As part of the museum’s general admission, visitors will be able to check out a dozen-or-so 1940s period vehicles used by the American military during the Second World War.

I was lucky to experience a small taste of the exhibit this afternoon. A rocket launching truck and anti-tank gun were waiting to be rolled from the outside parking lot into the museum during my Sunday walk through Balboa Park.

Here are several pics…

This historical military vehicle comes from the Marine Corps Mechanized Museum at Camp Pendleton north of San Diego.
This historical military vehicle comes from the Marine Corps Mechanized Museum at Camp Pendleton north of San Diego.
One of many interesting vehicles arriving for the upcoming Balboa Park The War Years exhibit at the San Diego Automotive Museum.
One of many interesting vehicles arriving for the upcoming Balboa Park: The War Years exhibit at the San Diego Automotive Museum.
US WW2 37mm M3 Anti-Tank Gun backing up to the museum's big side door!
US WW2 37mm M3 Anti-Tank Gun backing up to the museum’s big side door!

(After doing some searching on the internet, I’m pretty sure I have the above caption correct. If I don’t, leave a comment!)

Cool guy from San Diego Automotive Museum smiles for the camera!
Cool guy from San Diego Automotive Museum smiles for the camera!

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