8 Family-Friendly Events to Enjoy in San Diego This September
September is one of the best times to visit San Diego with kids. The weather is still warm, the summer crowds begin to thin out, and the city’s event calendar is packed with family-friendly ways to explore, play, and make memories.
Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a longer family vacation, there are plenty of things happening throughout San Diego County this September. From high-speed boat races and classic cars to cultural festivals and not-too-spooky Halloween fun, here are some of our favorite family-friendly events to add to your itinerary.
Through September 7, 2026 | Chula Vista
If you're traveling with babies, toddlers, or preschoolers, Sesame Place San Diego is a great way to spend a summer day. Sesame Summer Splash runs through September 7 and features family-friendly rides, water attractions, live entertainment, and opportunities to see favorite Sesame Street characters.
The park is especially appealing for families with younger children because there are plenty of attractions designed with little ones in mind, including water play areas and kid-friendly rides.
Parent tip: Bring plenty of sunscreen, towels, swimwear, and a change of clothes. And if you're visiting from out of town, renting your stroller can save valuable luggage space.
All Month Long | San Diego
September is a great time to add a museum day to your San Diego itinerary, especially when little ones need a break from the sun. Families can explore the many museums throughout Balboa Park and beyond, with options for children of all ages. The San Diego Museum of Art offers Family Art Adventures with guided experiences and hands-on art activities, while San Diego Natural History Museum is a great choice for curious kids who love dinosaurs, fossils, and the natural world. For interactive learning, Fleet Science Center features hands-on science exhibits, and The New Children's Museum gives younger children plenty of opportunities to create, explore, and play.
Parent tip: Museums can be an especially nice option for families traveling with babies and toddlers because they provide a comfortable break from the heat while still keeping everyone entertained. Don't forget that Destination Baby Co. can deliver a stroller, baby carrier, or other essentials directly to your San Diego accommodations, so you can explore without packing your entire nursery.
September 12, 2026 | Point Loma
Have a little car enthusiast in your family? Head to Point Loma for the Sunset Cliffs Auto Show on Saturday, September 12.
The event runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and features classic cars, trucks, motorcycles, live music, food, vendors, raffles, and a kids' zone.
It's also a great opportunity to enjoy one of San Diego's most beautiful coastal neighborhoods while you're there.
Parent tip: Bring a stroller for younger children and plan for plenty of walking. After the show, head toward Sunset Cliffs for some spectacular coastal views.
September 18–20, 2026 | Mission Bay
Get ready for some serious speed! San Diego Bayfair returns to Mission Bay September 18–20 for a weekend of powerboat racing, live entertainment, car shows, vendors, and family-friendly activities.
The event takes place across several areas of Mission Bay, including Fiesta Island, Crown Point, and East Vacation Island, with shuttle service available between locations.
For kids who love boats, cars, and anything that goes fast, this is definitely one to put on the calendar.
Parent tip: Mission Bay can get busy during major events. Bring a stroller or wagon for little ones and pack plenty of water and sun protection.
September 19–20, 2026 | Normal Heights
The Adams Avenue Street Fair is one of San Diego's biggest free community festivals, and it's a great option for families looking for a lively, local experience.
Taking place September 19–20, the two-day festival features 75 musical acts across seven stages, carnival rides, food, vendors, and entertainment throughout the Normal Heights neighborhood.
With so much happening throughout the event, there's something for family members of all ages.
Parent tip: A stroller or wagon can be especially helpful when navigating the crowds and giving tired little legs a place to rest.
September 25–27, 2026 | MCAS Miramar
Look up! The Miramar Air Show returns September 25–27, bringing incredible aerial demonstrations and aviation experiences to San Diego.
The 2026 show is scheduled to feature military aircraft, aerial demonstrations, and the Blue Angels, with general admission listed as free. Because the event takes place on an active military installation, families should check the official event information before attending for current gate times, parking, security, and prohibited-item rules.
Parent tip: This is an outdoor event, so sun protection, comfortable shoes, hearing protection for young children, and plenty of water are worth packing.
September 26–27, 2026 | Ski Beach, Mission Bay
Celebrate the rich cultures and traditions of Melanesia, Micronesia, and Polynesia at the 32nd Pacific Islander Festival of San Diego.
Taking place September 26–27 at Ski Beach in Mission Bay, the festival includes traditional dance and music, authentic island food, arts and crafts, cultural workshops, interactive demonstrations, and family-friendly activities. Best of all, admission is free.
The festival opens at 7:30 a.m. both days, and families are encouraged to use the free event shuttle because parking at Ski Beach is extremely limited.
Parent tip: Leave the big stroller at home if possible and consider a baby carrier for navigating the festival and shuttle.
Select dates beginning September 11, 2026 | Mission Bay
Who says Halloween has to wait until October?
SeaWorld San Diego's Halloween Spooktacular begins September 11 and runs on select Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays through November 2. This daytime celebration includes trick-or-treating, a pumpkin patch, interactive activities, and a pirate-themed Halloween adventure.
It's a great option for families who want to introduce little ones to Halloween without the scary atmosphere of a traditional haunted event.
Important: SeaWorld's separate nighttime Howl-O-Scream event is an adult-targeted, intense Halloween experience and is not intended for children. Families with young kids should stick with the daytime Spooktacular.
Make Your September San Diego Trip Easier
Planning a family vacation is exciting, but traveling with babies and toddlers can come with a lot of extra gear. Strollers, cribs, car seats, high chairs, toys, beach equipment—the list seems endless!
You don't have to bring it all with you.
Destination Baby Co. delivers clean, premium baby gear directly to hotels, vacation rentals, Airbnbs, grandparents' homes, and vacation properties throughout San Diego County.
Instead of checking bulky equipment at the airport or filling your car with baby gear, reserve what you need and have it waiting when you arrive.
From strollers and full-size cribs to car seats, wagons, beach gear, toys, and more, we're here to help your family travel lighter and enjoy more.
Ready for Your San Diego Adventure?
Whether you're coming for the Miramar Air Show, spending the weekend at Bayfair, exploring a local street fair, or simply enjoying a San Diego beach day, having the right baby gear can make the experience easier for everyone.
Reserve your baby gear before your trip and let Destination Baby Co. handle the rest.
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