Tag: festivals

Come enjoy the 2016 International Summer Organ Festival!

The 2016 International Summer Organ Festival in Balboa Park's Spreckels Organ Pavilion will feature some of the world's great organists! If you've never been to this event, time to go check it out!
The 2016 International Summer Organ Festival in Balboa Park’s Spreckels Organ Pavilion will feature some of the world’s great organists! If you’ve never been to these concerts, time to go check it out!

It starts tomorrow evening! It’s time again for that annual world-famous cultural event in Balboa Park: the International Summer Organ Festival! I promised to say something about these amazing weekly concerts on my blog, so I better do it today before it’s too late!

Anyone who has attended the International Summer Organ Festival in past years knows that many of the world’s greatest concert organists perform during the 10 week blockbuster event. The free concerts are held on Monday evenings in Balboa Park’s Spreckels Organ Pavilion. Concerts begin at 7:30 and last about 2 hours, with a brief intermission to eat, drink, talk, visit the gift shop and stretch legs. Thousands of music buffs and ordinary folk (like myself) come out to listen to the Spreckels Organ’s awesome and versatile voice.

As many of you might know, the Spreckels Organ recently regained the title of World’s Largest Outdoor Organ. And when an organist “pulls out all the stops”, you can hear this King of Instruments clear across Balboa Park!

One more thing–I learned that gourmet sandwiches will be available at the concession area this year–they’re large enough to feed two. So why not make an evening of it? Perhaps walk around beautifully lit Balboa Park before the evening concert or afterward!

Oh–and I should mention that on the Fourth of July, a special concert will feature a spectacular tribute to musical Americana, including favorite rags, marches, Gershwin and more. All played by Dave Wickerham, who is a top-notch theatre organist. (I’ve heard him before, and the way he plays is just unbelievable.)

Click the photo above that contains information about the performances. The image will enlarge and you can mark your calendars. If you’re not in San Diego, I believe the concerts will be streamed on the internet. To learn more about that possibility, and more about the Spreckels Organ Society and their concerts and educational programs, click here!

Ross Porter, Executive Administrator of the Spreckels Organ Society, shows us the newly printed program which visitors will receive at every free summer Monday night performance.
Ross Porter, Executive Administrator of the Spreckels Organ Society, shows us the newly printed program which visitors will receive at every free summer Monday night performance.
I needed some photos for today's blog post, so I captured a smile in the outdoor gift shop. I missed this afternoon's free Sunday concert because I was on a secret mission.
I needed some photos for today’s blog post, so I captured a smile in the outdoor gift shop. I missed this afternoon’s free Sunday concert because I was on a secret mission and had to go elsewhere.
About an hour to go before the free Sunday afternoon concert at 2 o'clock. The Spreckels Organ Pavilion is home to the world's largest outdoor organ and brilliant Civic Organist, Dr. Carol Williams!
About an hour to go before the free Sunday afternoon concert at 2 o’clock. Volunteers and curious folk are Just hanging out. The Spreckels Organ Pavilion is home to the world’s largest outdoor organ and brilliant Civic Organist, Dr. Carol Williams!

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I live in downtown San Diego and love to walk! You can follow Cool San Diego Sights via Facebook or Twitter!

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Fun photos of San Diego Zoo Centennial Festival!

The San Diego Zoo is 100! And this evening, it celebrated with an amazing centennial festival in its home--Balboa Park!
The San Diego Zoo is 100! And this evening, it is celebrating with a big centennial festival in its beautiful home: Balboa Park!

Late this afternoon, I walked through Balboa Park to check out the beginning of the huge San Diego Zoo Centennial Festival! As you might’ve guessed, our world-famous zoo has turned a hundred years old!

The San Diego Zoo began when the 1915 Panama-California Exposition came to an end in 1916.  The exposition’s veterinarian, Harry Milton Wegeforth, heard the caged lions roar. He turned to his brother and said: “Wouldn’t it be splendid if San Diego had a zoo! You know…I think I’ll start one.”

The rest is history. A century of amazing history!

The big festival today featured all sorts of fun and educational stuff, as you’ll see in my photos. I can hardly believe the size of the crowd that turned out!

I went home before dark and missed a world-record attempt in the Spreckels Organ Pavilion–the most hand puppets performing at one time. Regrettably, I also missed the opening of the big mystery boxes–gifts from the zoo to the San Diego community. As of this moment–as I publish this post–they still haven’t been opened! I’ll provide an update when I learn what was inside!

UPDATE!

From what I read the following morning, the three huge gift boxes on stage contained a puppet elephant, a puppet condor, and an 11-foot-high puppet lion that roared at the conclusion of an epic evening performance!

I should’ve stayed to watch! Apparently the Broadway-style show was amazing, and featured Tony and Grammy Award-winning singer Heather Headley, lots of dancing, the performing puppets, and an inspiring light show. If you want to check out some pics, here are a bunch of good ones!

A huge crowd walks down El Prado in Balboa Park, enjoying exhibits and entertainment celebrating the world-famous San Diego Zoo.
A huge crowd walks down El Prado in Balboa Park, enjoying exhibits and entertainment celebrating the world-famous San Diego Zoo’s centennial.
People listen to live music in the Plaza de Panama. Many people wore hats or shirts decorated with animals.
People listen to live music in the Plaza de Panama. Many people wore hats or shirts decorated with animals.
Sign lists the various activities at the San Diego Zoo Centennial community celebration.
Sign lists the various activities at the San Diego Zoo Centennial community celebration.
Zoo staff and volunteers help kids create animal-themed art.
Zoo staff and volunteers help kids create animal-themed art.
These mariachis were almost ready to perform!
These mariachis were almost ready to perform!
Street magician excites a kid.
Street magician excites a kid.
Musicians were everywhere. It was a big party for San Diego.
Musicians were everywhere. It was a big party for San Diego.
A botanicals exhibit explained how the San Diego Zoo isn't merely saving endangered animal species, but saving rare plants, too! I'm going to blog about it shortly.
A botanicals exhibit explained how the San Diego Zoo isn’t merely saving endangered animal species, but saving rare plants, too! I’m going to blog about this shortly!
Look who I spotted giving an interview. The celebrated and much beloved zoo spokesperson Joan Embery!
Look who I spotted giving an interview. The celebrated and much-beloved zoo spokesperson Joan Embery!
Lots of cool zoo gifts and fun commemorative stuff for sale, of course!
Lots of cool zoo gifts and fun commemorative stuff was for sale, of course!
Another exhibit showed how the zoo helps wildlife researchers using modern digital recording technology in the field.
Another exhibit showed how the zoo helps wildlife researchers using modern digital recording technology in the field.
Several local high schools were having their proms tonight, and I spotted many fancy dresses throughout Balboa Park. I'm not sure about this photo shoot!
Several local high schools were having their proms tonight, and I spotted many fancy dresses throughout Balboa Park. I’m not sure about this photo shoot!
It's still an hour before the main programming begins, but people are already gathering in the Spreckels Organ Pavilion. There's the large mystery box on the left!
It’s still two hours before the main programming begins, but people are already gathering in the Spreckels Organ Pavilion. There are the large mystery boxes!
Zoo team member was super friendly and answered several of my questions. Every zoo representative I talked to was enthusiastic, knowledgeable and really nice.
This super friendly San Diego Zoo team member answered several of my questions. Every zoo representative I talked to was enthusiastic, knowledgeable and really nice.
Some dancing up on the stage. At eight o'clock, the main program would begin.
Some dancing up on the stage. At eight o’clock, the main program would begin.
A tiger roams through Balboa Park.
A tiger roams through Balboa Park.

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Help protect the environment: Cool ideas at EarthFair.

Use cans and old kitchen tools for plant pots! Dryer lint as cotton with nail polish remover to take off polish!
Use cans and old kitchen tools for plant pots! Dryer lint as cotton with nail polish remover to take off polish!

Late this morning, I walked from Cortez Hill to the 2016 EarthFair in Balboa Park. The cool event, corresponding with Earth Day, is the largest annual environmental fair in the world!

Thousands turned out for 2016 EarthFair in Balboa Park, where San Diego celebrates Earth Day and learns how to help the environment.
Thousands turned out today for the 2016 EarthFair in Balboa Park.  San Diego residents celebrated Earth Day and learned how to help protect the environment.

I blogged about EarthFair the last couple of years and showed you a little bit of almost everything–so this time I decided to take a different, more practical approach. As I walked through San Diego’s garden-like Balboa Park, I searched the many exhibits for useful ideas about things we can do in our daily lives to protect the environment.

Here are a few things I found. Please read the captions! And feel free to share!

1. Ideas for creatively repurposing used household items.

One major theme of EarthFair was re-using and repurposing old items that might otherwise be thrown away. I noted some cool ideas and took pics!

Poster shows many creative repurposing ideas! Click photo to enlarge and read some cool, very unusual ideas that you might try!
Poster shows many creative repurposing ideas! Click photo to enlarge and read some cool, very unusual ideas that you might try!
These shiny, colorful handbags were made from recycled Kool-Aid and Capri Sun packets!
These shiny, colorful handbags were made from recycled Kool-Aid and Capri Sun packets!
Take old clothes to make new clothes for homeless and toys for kids.
Take old clothes to make new clothes for homeless and toys for kids.
Recycling vintage fabric into baby bibs.
Recycling vintage fabric into baby bibs.
Turn old sweaters into beautiful pillows.
Turn old sweaters into beautiful pillows.
People check out the world's largest fair celebrating Earth Day--EarthFair in San Diego's sunny Balboa Park!
People check out the world’s largest festival celebrating Earth Day–EarthFair in San Diego’s sunny Balboa Park!

2. Tasty ways to use up excess fruits and vegetables.

One display created by the County of San Diego provided excellent information about how to use leftover or surplus fruits and vegetables, to avoid unnecessary waste. Those pics came out blurry, so here’s what I noted:

Spinach–add to sandwiches, soups, egg dishes, pasta or smoothies.

Bananas–add to cereal, yogurt or smoothies. Blend frozen bananas with milk and vanilla for a healthy dessert.

Citrus–add to green or fruit salads, soups, pasta or sauces. Add peels to vinegar for a simple household cleaner.

Tomatoes–add to salads, egg dishes, sandwiches or pasta. Use to make fresh salsa, tomato sauce or bruschetta.

Onions–add to salads, soups, egg dishes, sandwiches or stir-fry. Pickle red onions. Make onion preserves.

Peppers–add to sandwiches, salads, egg dishes or stir-fry. Steam and puree to make soup or a sauce for meat or pasta.

Avocados–add to smoothies, salads, sandwiches, egg dishes or baked goods. Spread on toast. Use in pasta sauce with lemon, garlic, oil and basil.

Beets–add to salads, soups or stir-fry. Use roasted beets in place of meat on sandwiches.

Broccoli and Cauliflower–add to salads, soups, egg dishes or stir-fry. Add finely chopped or grated cauliflower to rice.

Berries–add to fruit or green salads, hot or cold cereals, smoothies or yogurt. Use in a fruit salsa served with bread or chips.

Potatoes–add to salads, soups or egg dishes. Use russet potatoes to make potato skins. Use leftover baked potatoes to make hashbrowns.

Corn–add to soups or salads. Use to make a fresh corn salsa. Bake into cornbread or potato pancakes.

3. Things you can do to help protect the environment–and save money!

Here are a few displays I photographed that contained some great advice! Click the photos to enlarge them!

Compost can be made with shredded paper, grass clippings, wood chips, garden leftovers, leaves, livestock manure, chopped up yard debris and used coffee grounds.
Compost can be made with shredded paper, grass clippings, wood chips, garden leftovers, leaves, livestock manure, chopped up yard debris and used coffee grounds.
To save energy, use efficient lighting, adjust your thermostat, install solar, reduce driving, and keep you car maintained and tires properly inflated.
To save energy, use efficient lighting, adjust your thermostat, install solar, reduce driving, and keep your car maintained and tires properly inflated.
Check to see if your city offers free utility inspections and efficiency analysis. In San Diego, a free water survey program is available.
Check to see if your city offers free utility inspections and efficiency analysis. In San Diego, a free water survey program is available.
Ride a bicycle to work! In San Diego, Bike to Work Day in 2016 is Friday, May 20. You might consider walking or taking public transit, too!
Ride a bicycle to work! In San Diego, Bike to Work Day in 2016 is Friday, May 20. You might consider walking or taking public transit, too!
Many San Diegans saved energy, reduced air pollution and stayed healthy by riding their bicycles to EarthFair!
Many San Diegans saved energy, reduced air pollution and stayed healthy by riding their bicycles to EarthFair!

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I live in downtown San Diego and love to walk! You can follow Cool San Diego Sights via Facebook or Twitter!

Do you love Balboa Park? Follow my special new blog which I call Beautiful Balboa Park!

International Folk Dance Spring Festival in Balboa Park!

Artwork hung near entrance of the Balboa Park Club depicts Greek folk dancers.
Artwork hung near entrance of the Balboa Park Club depicts Greek folk dancers.

A great event is going on this weekend in Balboa Park! If you happen to be in San Diego, you might like to check it out!

The International Folk Dance Spring Festival is being held in the very beautiful Balboa Park Club building, and everyone is invited. The fun event is put on by the International Dance Association of San Diego County.

Anyone who attended the festival today could learn how to Greek dance! Tomorrow, Sunday, you’ll have the opportunity to learn and observe other styles of folk dancing. It’s easy to participate and lots of fun! And it’s a great social activity that provides healthy exercise!

I learned that the International Dance Association of San Diego County is eager to welcome new members. Do you enjoy folk dancing? Do you wish to learn? Are you merely curious and would like to read some more interesting information? Then click here to check out their website! They have numerous classes and special dances throughout the year!

Curious visitors enter the Balboa Park Club building, to enjoy the 2016 International Folk Dance Spring Festival.
Curious visitors enter the Balboa Park Club building, to enjoy the 2016 International Folk Dance Spring Festival.
Costumes are a fun aspect of authentic folk dancing. But you don't need one to participate!
Costumes are a fun aspect of authentic folk dancing. But you don’t need one to participate!  Come as you are!
People get ready to perform a social dance in the amazing 13,000 square feet ballroom inside the Balboa Park Club.
People get ready to perform a social dance in the amazing 13,000 square feet ballroom inside the Balboa Park Club.
People at the International Folk Dance Spring Festival in Balboa Park learn Greek dancing!
Ordinary people at the International Folk Dance Spring Festival in Balboa Park learn Greek dancing!
Life is beautiful. Indeed, it is!
Life is beautiful. Indeed, it is!
The stunning, historic grand foyer of the Balboa Park Club is decorated for spring. Buy stuff here during the festival to support the International Dance Association of San Diego County.
The stunning, historic grand foyer of the Balboa Park Club is decorated for spring. Buy stuff here during the festival to support the International Dance Association of San Diego County.
International Folk Dancing in Balboa Park is celebrating 69 years! Recreational folk dance is taught, demonstrated and performed for free in a stylish, air-conditioned ballroom!
International Folk Dancing in Balboa Park is celebrating 69 years! Recreational folk dance is taught, demonstrated and performed for free in a stylish, air-conditioned ballroom!
The Balboa Park Club is the site of a San Diego folk dance festival, running this weekend. Go check it out! Or, better yet, go and learn how to folk dance!
The Balboa Park Club is the site of a San Diego folk dance festival, running this weekend. Go check it out! Or, better yet, go and learn how to folk dance! Why not?

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I live in downtown San Diego and love to walk! You can follow Cool San Diego Sights via Facebook or Twitter!

Do you love Balboa Park? Follow my special blog which I call Beautiful Balboa Park!

Jacaranda spring festival coming to Cortez Hill!

Those pink spring blooms, I believe, actually belong to Pink Trumpet Trees in Tweet Street Park, site of the upcoming Jacaranda Spring Thing!
Cheerful blooms cover Pink Trumpet Trees in Tweet Street Park.  The neighborhood park is site of an upcoming spring festival!

This morning, when I saw a large temporary sign on the street outside my front door, I went to investigate. And look what I discovered! A neighborhood spring festival is going to take place on Cortez Hill!

It’s called Jacaranda Spring Thing! (Yes, there are lots of beautiful Jacaranda trees on Cortez Hill. Many can be found in Tweet Street Park where the festival will take place.)

The free outdoor event will feature food trucks, a special Home Depot workshop (about fixing up your outdoor patio), live music, a book truck, a photo booth . . . all sorts of fun stuff!

Okay, are you interested? It takes place on April 16 at Tweet Street Park, along Date Street between 8th and 9th Avenue, from noon to 4pm.  Here’s a link with more info.  (By registering at that link, the organizers at the Downtown San Diego Partnership can get an idea of how many people might show up.)

A special neighborhood event is coming to Cortez Hill. The Jacaranda Spring Thing takes place Saturday, April 16, from 12pm-4pm.
A special neighborhood event is coming to beautiful Cortez Hill. The Jacaranda Spring Thing takes place Saturday, April 16, from 12pm-4pm.
I love walking along Date Street through sunny Tweet Street, a park dedicated to city birds.
I love walking along Date Street through sunny Tweet Street, a park dedicated to city birds.
Spring is in the air on Cortez Hill. The gentle season brings new life and great natural beauty.
Spring is in the air on Cortez Hill. The gentle season brings new life and great natural beauty.

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I live in downtown San Diego and love to walk! You can follow Cool San Diego Sights via Facebook or Twitter!

Photos of 2016 Padres FanFest at Petco Park!

Padres fans have a ball at today's big FanFest at Petco Park. An exhibition game was played in the afternoon against the Chicago White Sox.
Padres fans have a ball at today’s big FanFest at Petco Park. An exhibition game was played in the afternoon against the Chicago White Sox.

This morning I walked across downtown to check out Padres FanFest!  The big annual event is held at Petco Park just prior to baseball’s Opening Day. It provides fans a taste of the upcoming Padres season. This is the third year in a row I’ve attended, and I really enjoyed it! Here are some pics!  Go Pads!

Thousands of fans turn out to get a preview of the Padres' 2016 baseball season. There were many family activities throughout Petco Park.
Thousands of fans turn out to get a preview of the Padres’ 2016 baseball season. There were many family activities throughout Petco Park.
Young Padres fans test their batting ability at KidsFest at Petco Park.
Young Padres fans test their batting ability at a special KidsFest area.
Photo of the busy children's baseball field, an awesome feature of the public park situated beyond Petco Park's outfield.
Photo of the busy children’s baseball field, an awesome feature of the public park situated beyond Petco Park’s outfield.
Young batter smashes a hit in the tiny ball field at Park at the Park. Baseball is fun for everyone!
Young batter smashes a hit in the tiny ball field at Park at the Park. Baseball is fun for everyone!
Kid infielders charge a batted wiffle ball at the miniature baseball field in Park at the Park.
Kid infielders charge a batted wiffle ball at the miniature baseball field in Park at the Park.
A friendly Coast Guard mascot attracts as much attention from kids as the nearby inflatable batting cage.
A friendly Coast Guard mascot attracts as much attention from kids as the nearby inflatable batting cage.
The San Diego Padres pulled out all the stops during 2016 FanFest. It appeared that many people were buying tickets for the upcoming season.
The San Diego Padres pulled out all the stops for this year’s Fan Fest. It appeared that many people were buying tickets for the upcoming season.
Phil's BBQ is a local favorite. Lots of tasty stuff was available at concessions inside and outside the stadium, including old classics like hot dogs.
Phil’s BBQ is a local favorite. Lots of tasty stuff was available at concessions inside and outside the stadium, including old classics like hot dogs.
Popular professional baseball players were signing autographs for San Diego fans.
Many popular Major League Baseball players were signing autographs for lined up fans.
Sign on back of the huge videoboard highlights the team's past accomplishments. This year Petco Park will host the 2016 MLB All-Star Game!
Sign on back of the huge videoboard highlights the team’s past accomplishments. This year Petco Park will host the 2016 MLB All-Star Game!
Some graphics at Petco Park commemorate Padres Hall of Famers.
Some graphics at Petco Park commemorate Padres Hall of Famers.
2016 FanFest allowed people to watch batting practice for the afternoon's exhibition game. A sunny spring day. The Pads will soon Play Ball!
2016 FanFest allowed people to watch batting practice for the afternoon’s exhibition game. Another sunny spring day in San Diego. The Pads will soon Play Ball!
Fans watch and hope to catch a ball during White Sox batting practice. The field looks green and ready for the coming season!
Fans watch and hope to catch a ball during White Sox batting practice. The field looks green and ready for the coming season!
I hope lots of Padres batters hit this bullseye on the Western Metal Supply building during the 2016 season. Hope springs eternal!
I hope lots of Padres batters hit this bullseye on the Western Metal Supply building during the 2016 season. Hope springs eternal!
A lucky fan in the stands gets an unexpected autograph from the Padres bullpen!
A lucky somebody in the stands gets an unexpected autograph from the Padres bullpen!
Padres starting pitcher James Shields stretches and warms up in the bullpen.
Padres starting pitcher James Shields stretches and warms up in the bullpen.
Padres FanFest is an exciting annual event at Petco Park!
Padres FanFest is an exciting annual sports event at Petco Park!
A player smashed a line drive over the wall during batting practice. If someone can catch the ball, they might possibly win a prize: tickets to the Homerun Derby before this year's All-Star Game!
A player smashed a line drive over the wall during batting practice. If someone can catch the ball, they might possibly win a cool prize: tickets to the Homerun Derby before this year’s All-Star Game!
A busy vendor walks about with drinks and snacks.
A busy vendor walks about with drinks and snacks.
Padres fans rest behind the Tony Gwynn statue atop the hill in the grassy Park at the Park.
Padres fans rest behind the Tony Gwynn statue atop the hill in the grassy Park at the Park.
Padres faithful kick back in the stands and absorb the sights and sounds of San Diego baseball.
Padres faithful kick back in the stands and absorb the sights and sounds of San Diego baseball.
Superstar pitcher James Shields signs autographs for lots of excited fans during 2016 FanFest at Petco Park.
Superstar pitcher James Shields signs autographs for lots of excited fans during 2016 FanFest at Petco Park.

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Photos of International Mariachi Festival in National City.

A friendly Mariachi band smiles as photos are taken!
A friendly Mariachi band smiles as photos are taken!

Today I rode the trolley down to the South Bay to enjoy the big 2016 National City International Mariachi Festival and Competition.

The annual cultural event takes place in Pepper Park, which is located close to where the Sweetwater River empties into San Diego Bay.

I was absolutely amazed by the color, the energy, the sheer happiness of those participating and watching. Hopefully my photos provide a taste…

A colorful arch welcomes visitors to Pepper Park and the 2016 National City International Mariachi Festival!
A colorful arch welcomes visitors to Pepper Park and the 2016 National City International Mariachi Festival!
The Mariachi Scholarship Foundation has benefited many music-loving students in San Diego County.
The Mariachi Scholarship Foundation has benefited many music-loving students in San Diego County.
Fantastic sombreros attracted my camera at the festival's Mariachi Scholarship Foundation table.
Fantastic sombreros attracted my camera at the festival’s Mariachi Scholarship Foundation table.
The grand stage drew the largest crowd. Many excellent Mariachi groups and baile folklorico dancers wowed the audience.
The grand stage drew the largest crowd. Many excellent Mariachi groups and baile folklorico dancers wowed the audience.
A smiling senorita at the International Mariachi Festival and Competition in National City.
A smiling senorita at the International Mariachi Festival and Competition in National City.
Members of Danza Folklorico Las Florecitas perform Mexican folk dances in Pepper Park.
Members of Danza Folklorico Las Florecitas perform Mexican folk dances in Pepper Park.
Mariachi musicians perform on the main stage at the 2016 National City International Mariachi Festival and Competition. They received loud cheers.
Mariachi musicians perform on the main stage at the 2016 National City International Mariachi Festival and Competition. They received loud cheers.
A cheerful dress on a beautiful day in San Diego's South Bay. A nearby boat ramp leads into the channel of the Sweetwater River.
A cheerful dress on a beautiful day in San Diego’s South Bay. A nearby boat ramp leads into the channel of the Sweetwater River.
Colorful, energetic folklorico dancing on a smaller, non-competitive stage.
Colorful, energetic folklorico dancing on a smaller, non-competitive stage.
A diverse audience from San Diego, Tijuana and the surrounding region. Even many of the participants enjoyed the non-stop entertainment.
A diverse audience from San Diego, Tijuana and the surrounding region. Many of the participants also enjoyed the non-stop entertainment.
Taking a break to stretch my legs, I walked out on the short pier in National City's Pepper Park. Visible is a huge car carrier ship docked in San Diego Bay. It transported imported vehicles from Asia.
Taking a break to stretch my legs, I walked out onto the short pier in National City’s Pepper Park. Visible is a huge car carrier ship docked in San Diego Bay. It transported imported vehicles from Asia.
Looking back at the smaller stage. Some dancers wearing bright yellow are getting ready for their turn to perform.
Looking back at the rear of the smaller stage. Some dancers wearing bright yellow are getting ready for their turn to perform.
Young dancers on stage whirled, stepped smartly, then whirled again.
Young dancers on stage whirled, stepped smartly, then whirled again.
Mexican culture is warm, happy and lots of fun.
Mexican culture is warm, happy and lots of fun.
These ladies in costume were taking their turns at one of the festival's many prize wheels!
These ladies in traditional costume were taking their turns at one of the festival’s many prize wheels!
Dancing with joy.
Dancing with joy.
A typical scene from the annual Mariachi festival in National City.
A typical scene from the annual Mariachi festival in National City.

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I live in downtown San Diego and love to walk! You can follow Cool San Diego Sights via Facebook or Twitter!

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Irish pride on display at big St. Patrick’s Day Parade!

Irish damsels on horseback linger before start of the 2016 St. Patrick's Day Parade in San Diego.
Very elegant Celtic damsels on horseback linger before start of the 2016 St. Patrick’s Day Parade in San Diego.

Here come a bunch of fun pics! I took these this morning as folks were getting ready for the big annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival in San Diego. I saw all sorts of Irish pride on display. Lots of smiles. Lots of laughter. Enjoy!

Members of the 3rd West Cork Brigade were dressed in period costume to demonstrate their Irish pride.
Members of the 3rd West Cork Brigade were dressed in period costume to demonstrate their Irish pride.
Irish gentlemen in green jackets cross the grass at the west end of Balboa Park.
Irish gentlemen in green jackets cross the grass at the west end of Balboa Park.  The festival was just getting started.
An Old Irish Pub sign at the big St. Patrick's Day Festival next to the parade route.
An Old Irish Pub sign at the big St. Patrick’s Day Festival next to the parade route.
This funny fellow was carrying the Morning Paper down Sixth Avenue.
This funny fellow was carrying the Morning Paper down Sixth Avenue.
I see this friendly smiling clown every year at the parade!
I see this friendly smiling clown every year at the parade!
Young and old alike celebrate Ireland and wear the green.
Young and old alike celebrate Ireland and wear the green.
I saw lots of Irish Setters, of course.
I saw lots of Irish Setters, of course.
Someone watches as members of local United States Marine Corps band practice. Photo taken near Balboa Park's lawn bowling green.
Someone watches as members of local United States Marine Corps band rehearse. Photo taken near Balboa Park’s lawn bowling green.
Marine Band San Diego gets ready to participate in the 2016 St. Patrick's Day Parade.
Marine Band San Diego gets ready to participate in the 2016 St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
Irish dancing was being performed on one stage an hour before the parade got underway.
Irish dancing was being performed on one stage an hour before the parade got underway.
Bagpiper players and drummers form a circle as they practice for the big parade.
Bagpipe players and drummers form a circle as they practice for the big annual parade.
One of several large Irish Wolfhounds that were checking out the festivities.
One of several large Irish Wolfhounds that were checking out the festivities.
Some musicians get ready on a trailer beside the parade route. They're advertising Rope the Musical.
Some musicians get ready on a trailer beside the parade route. They’re advertising Rope the Musical.
And here are some old-fashioned penny-farthing enthusiasts.
And here are some old-fashioned penny-farthing enthusiasts.
Folks prepare their float for the St. Patrick's Day Parade. It will feature a big orange shamrock.
Folks prepare their float for the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. It will feature a big orange shamrock.
The mascot of a local business gets a necklace of shiny green beads!
The mascot of a local business gets a necklace of shiny green beads!
Smiles, laughter, great fun, and lots of Irish pride.
Smiles, laughter, great fun, and lots of Irish pride.

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I live in downtown San Diego and love to walk! You can follow Cool San Diego Sights via Facebook or Twitter!

Do you like to read short pieces of thought-provoking fiction? Please visit Short Stories by Richard.

Fun photos of Seaport Village Spring Busker Festival!

Murrugun the Mystic prepares to swallow a real sword. He currently holds the world record for longest sword swallow. He has starred on AMC's Freakshow and many other television shows.
Murrugun the Mystic prepares to swallow a real sword. He currently holds the world record for longest sword swallow. He has starred on AMC’s Freakshow and many other television shows!

Wow, what a day! Where do I begin? How about with this weekend’s awesome Seaport Village Spring Busker Festival!

This is the third year in a row I’ve attended the fantastic event. It’s as good as ever! Here are some photos from today to prove it!

If you’re in San Diego tomorrow, head on over to Seaport Village to check out the busker action! On Sunday the various acts will be performing from 12pm – 6pm.

The 2016 Seaport Village Spring Busker Festival features many of the world's best street performers on several stages.
The 2016 Seaport Village Spring Busker Festival features many of the world’s best street performers on several stages.
I saw a few world-class jugglers, including the UniProShow's amazing Jamey Mossengren, a seven-time World Unicycle Champion!
I saw a few world-class jugglers, including the UniProShow’s amazing Jamey Mossengren, a seven-time World Unicycle Champion!
A performing duo called Her Majesty's Secret Circus Show had a funny act that included juggling, silliness and lots of bad jokes.
A performing duo called Her Majesty’s Secret Circus Show had a funny act that included juggling, silliness and lots of bad jokes.
A wicked-looking knife getting readied at the Seaport Village Spring Busker Festival!
A wicked-looking knife getting readied at the Seaport Village Spring Busker Festival!
A secret agent with a bow and plunger prepares to shoot at a bullseye held by another secret agent on a unicycle.
A secret agent with a bow and plunger prepares to shoot at a bullseye held by another secret agent on a unicycle.
CREW was providing crazy good percussive beats using old garbage cans and other odd household objects.
CREW was providing crazy good percussive beats using old garbage cans and other odd household objects.
Fantastic break dancing and acrobatics were the specialty of the super entertaining Flying Tortillas!
Fantastic break dancing and acrobatics were the specialty of the super entertaining Flying Tortillas!
Audience members are readied for a rare stunt. A member of the Flying Tortillas will run and launch himself bodily over six people!
Audience members are readied for a rare stunt. A member of the Flying Tortillas will run and launch himself bodily over six people! Can he make it? You’ll have to go see for yourself!
Murrugun the Mystic breathes fire. He is keeping the old circus sideshow traditions alive.
Murrugun the Mystic breathes fire. He is keeping the old circus sideshow traditions alive.

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Lion dances and fun in downtown San Diego!

Lion dancer meets small visitor to the 34th Annual 2016 San Diego Chinese New Year Food and Cultural Fair.
Lion dancer meets small visitor to the 34th Annual 2016 San Diego Chinese New Year Food and Cultural Fair.

To celebrate the Chinese New Year, a special festival is being held this weekend in downtown San Diego, in the historic old Chinatown section, now known as the Asian Thematic District. The event is called the 34th Annual 2016 San Diego Chinese New Year Food and Cultural Fair, and it’s being put on by the San Diego Chinese Center (SDCC). You can find the fun on two blocks adjacent to the San Diego Chinese Historical Museum. There are lion dances, drummers, temple dancers, story telling, a kung fu demonstration, and just lots and lots of cool sights.

I walked through the festival this morning around 10 o’clock and observed the opening ceremonies. Here are some colorful pics!

The CCBA Lucky Lion Dancers would soon be heading down the street through the crowd.
The CCBA Lucky Lion Dancers would soon be heading down the street through the crowd.
Tables in front of the San Diego Chinese Historical Museum contained arts, crafts and many unique cultural objects.
Tables in front of the San Diego Chinese Historical Museum contain arts, crafts and many unique cultural objects.
These funny faces were for sale in a vendor's booth. There was lots of Chinese food and a variety of colorful wares for visitors to purchase.
These funny faces were for sale in a vendor’s booth. There was a lot of Asian food and a variety of colorful wares for visitors to purchase.
Uniquely beautiful Asian art could be seen up and down the street during the San Diego Chinese New Year Food and Cultural Fair.
Uniquely beautiful art could be seen up and down the street during the San Diego Chinese New Year Food and Cultural Fair.
Anyone could have their name written in Chinese!
Anyone could have their name written in Chinese!
2016 is the Year of the Golden Monkey. Monkey is the ninth zodiac animal in the twelve year cycle of the Chinese calendar.
2016 is the Year of the Golden Monkey. Monkey is the ninth zodiac animal in the twelve year cycle of the Chinese calendar.
The opening ceremony included an elaborate lion dance, then the display of this banner by San Diego dignitaries.
The opening ceremony included an elaborate lion dance on stage, then the display of this banner by San Diego dignitaries.
The energetic, exciting lion dance resumed, and people fed the lions red envelopes full of money for good luck!
The energetic, exciting lion dance resumed, and people fed the lions red envelopes full of money for good luck!
An explosion of lettuce from the hungry lions during the dance was cleaned up on the stage afterward! Lettuce symbolizes a fresh start in a new year.
An explosion of lettuce from the hungry lions during the dance was cleaned up on the stage afterward! Lettuce symbolizes a fresh start in a new year.
A drummer helps spur the dancing lions, a Laughing Buddha and a monkey into action!
A drummer helps spur the dancing lions, a Laughing Buddha and a monkey into action!
A long Chinese dragon on display. I believe a dragon dance would take place later. One of many cool sights at the annual San Diego festival!
A long Chinese dragon on display. I believe a dragon dance would take place later. One of many cool sights at the annual San Diego festival!

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