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Fads come and go, but since opening in 1976, Geppetto's Toys has been a favorite for unique, hand-selected toys that stand the test of time. Over the past 50 years it has grown into the largest independent toy retailer in the country with nine locations throughout San Diego County. To mark this golden milestone, Geppetto's is hosting a special all-location 50th Anniversary Celebration on Saturday, September 19 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. filled with surprises, giveaways, exclusive discounts, treats, activities, entertainment and more. "To make it 50 years in any industry is an accomplishment, let alone in one that has morphed so much over the decades," said Geppetto's owner Brian Miller. "From the changing face of traditional retail to the boom in online shopping, the impact of the pandemic, global tariffs and more, we are thrilled to have been a consistent neighborhood spot to find quality, hand-picked playthings from around the world," he added. In addition to the public celebrations, Geppetto's is pledging a $50,000 donation to Rady Children's through the sales of a commemorative 50th Anniversary "NeeDoh," the hottest toy nationwide. An addictively squishy, palm-sized sensory and stress relief toy made by Schylling, NeeDohs are filled with a non-toxic, dough-like compound that can be stretched, pulled and smushed, always returning to their original shape. The toy has been red-hot at stores around the country with parents and kids lining up whenever they are restocked. Geppetto's has commissioned thousands of anniversary NeeDohs, the only customized edition Schylling is producing this year. Proceeds from the 50th anniversary NeeDoh will go to Rady Children's with a guaranteed $50,000 donation. An active part of the San Diego community, Geppetto's has been a long time supporter of Rady Children's, including a special "Golden Ticket" contest in 2017 that offered a once in a lifetime trip to Toy Fair in New York for a lucky child through sales of commemorative chocolate bars, resulting in a $25,000 donation to the hospital. The company and the Miller family has lent support to hundreds of local causes over the past half century, including schools, social service agencies and community organizations. Some examples include Toys for Tots, La Jolla Art and Wine Festival, Words Alive and Jewish Family Services of San Diego. "Rady Children’s is honored to celebrate this incredible milestone with Geppetto’s and grateful that their success is being shared in a way that directly benefits the patients and families who rely on Rady Children’s every day,” said Alex Loker, Vice President of Philanthropy for Rady Children’s Hospital Foundation. Geppetto's dedication to a curated product selection and outstanding customer service have been two of the brand's pillars over the years, making it stand out above big-box and online retailers. Miller personally hand picks each and every toy in Geppetto's stores and is always on the lookout for the most inventive and interesting products throughout the year. "Our loyal customers turn to us for an authentic, quality retail experience and we are thrilled to deliver over the decades," said Miller. Geppetto's 50th Anniversary Celebration: Saturday, September 19, 2026 from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. All Geppetto's locations ** Giveaways, snacks, entertainment, activities and crafts, party decorations more! 50th Anniversary NeeDohs go on sale at 9 a.m. September 19; two per customer, while supplies last. Geppetto's Locations: Carlsbad - The Forum Carlsbad: 1935 Calle Barcelona -- 760-632-1107 Coronado: 1146 Orange Avenue -- 619-522-0918 Del Mar - Flower Hill Promenade: 2670 Via de la Valle -- 858-755-2100 Del Mar Highlands/Carmel Valley: 12843 El Camino Real -- 858-350-9038 Fashion Valley Mall: 7007 Friars Road -- 619-294-8878 La Jolla: 7850 Girard Ave -- 858-456-4441 Old Town Fiesta de Reyes: 2754 Calhoun St. -- 619 293-7520 Seaport Village: 835 West Harbor Drive -- 619-615-0005 Westfield UTC: 4545 La Jolla Village Drive -- 858-546-7633

Cinema Junkie talks about queer horror and indie filmmaking with Michael Varrati and Brendan Haley, the filmmakers behind "Scorch Marks," a new apocalyptic, supernatural horror tale. Their film will have its world premiere at FilmOut, San Diego’s LGBTQ Film Festival.

Scientists expand research on deep rooted plants’ ability to remove carbon from the atmosphere

The San Diego Book Festival is returning August 22, 2026 with more than 145 local and national authors participating as speakers and exhibitors. The annual event will take place on the University of San Diego campus from 10am - 4pm with anticipated attendance of 8,000.

In welcoming U.S. President Donald Trump to Beijing in May for a summit, Chinese President Xi Jinping sought to find an answer to the question of whether China and the U.S. would be able to overcome the Thucydides Trap and create a new paradigm of major country relations. After two days of intense conversation, the two leaders offered a tentative “yes,” proposing to create a new era of what they called “constructive strategic stability.” Following in the tradition of Susan Shirk, who insists on asking difficult questions and challenging conventional wisdom, the political scientist Graham Allison will devote this lecture to examining both the promise and the limits of that vision. Presider: Meghan O’Sullivan, Director, The Belfer Center; Jeane Kirkpatrick Professor of the Practice of International Affairs, Harvard Kennedy School Speaker: Graham Allison, Douglas Dillon Professor of Government, Harvard Kennedy School ------------------ This public lecture is organized by the 21st Century China Center (21CCC) at the UC San Diego School of Global Policy and Strategy. For more information about this and other 21CCC events, please visit china.ucsd.edu.

Join us on June 12 from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. for ARTS After Dark: DIY Journal Collage! We’ll learn how to use collage as a medium for reflection, introspection, and inspiration. Participants will decorate their own journal covers and be guided by prompts to engaged deeply with journal collaging. The event will be led by our amazing ARTS Artist, Monet. It’s going to be a fun evening, perfect for everyone, no matter your skill level. All materials will be provided, and there will be opportunities to purchase beer and wine. Come with a friend, loved one, or roll solo and get ready for a night of creativity and fun at the ARTS Center! Sign up early, space is limited! A Reason To Survive (ARTS) on Facebook / Instagram

Sunday's course takes high-speed cars right past the National Gallery of Art and three Smithsonian museums. Art experts worry about the works inside, but organizers say they don't expect damage.

With astonishing speed, precision, and creativity, Jake Shimabukuro has redefined what audiences believe is possible on the ukulele. Hailed around the world for his groundbreaking musicianship, the internationally acclaimed performer transforms the humble four-string instrument into a vehicle for breathtaking artistry, seamlessly blending jazz, blues, rock, classical, folk, flamenco, and traditional Hawaiian music into a sound entirely his own. Since his viral rendition of George Harrison’s “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” introduced millions to his extraordinary talent, Shimabukuro has captivated audiences across the globe with performances that are equal parts technical masterclass and heartfelt musical storytelling. His career has included collaborations with legendary artists including Yo-Yo Ma, Willie Nelson, Jimmy Buffett, Bette Midler, and Ziggy Marley, while earning praise for pushing the boundaries of contemporary instrumental music. A returning favorite among Poway audiences, Shimabukuro brings an infectious warmth and joyful energy to the stage that makes every performance feel deeply personal and celebratory. Whether delivering lightning-fast solos, delicate melodic passages, or playful improvisations, he connects with audiences through both his remarkable talent and genuine love of music. His concerts move effortlessly between high-energy showmanship and intimate musical moments, often surprising audiences with inventive interpretations of well-known songs alongside original compositions that showcase the versatility and emotional range of the ukulele. Backed by world-class musicians and infused with the spirit of the Hawaiian Islands, the evening promises a vibrant and uplifting musical journey unlike any other. Perfect for longtime fans and first-time listeners alike, this festive concert offers an unforgettable blend of virtuosity, humor, heart, and island charm. Shimabukuro’s ability to transcend musical genres while creating an atmosphere of connection and joy has made him one of the most beloved instrumental performers touring today. Audiences can expect an evening filled with dazzling musicianship, spontaneous moments, and the kind of feel-good energy that lingers long after the final note. From soulful ballads to exhilarating musical fireworks, this special performance celebrates the universal power of music to inspire, unite, and delight audiences of every generation.

Few artists embody the spirit, resilience, and soul of American music quite like Mavis Staples. A GRAMMY-winning legend, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Kennedy Center Honoree, and civil rights icon, Staples has spent more than seven decades using music to inspire hope, unity, and change. Rising to fame as the powerful voice behind The Staple Singers, she helped create some of the most enduring songs in music history, including classics like “I’ll Take You There,” “Respect Yourself,” and “Let’s Do It Again.” Her unmistakable voice — rich with soul, grit, warmth, and conviction — has influenced generations of artists across gospel, R&B, folk, rock, and Americana music. Throughout her extraordinary career, Staples has collaborated with some of the most celebrated musicians of all time, including Bob Dylan, Prince, Jeff Tweedy, Aretha Franklin, Hozier, Bonnie Raitt, and Levon Helm. Even after decades on stage, she continues to evolve as an artist, captivating audiences with new music that blends timeless soul with deeply human storytelling. Her recent acclaimed album, Sad and Beautiful World, showcases her enduring artistry and message of compassion, resilience, and connection — themes that remain as relevant today as ever. Whether performing beloved classics or newer material, Staples brings unmatched authenticity and emotional depth to every song she sings. Audiences can expect an unforgettable evening filled with powerful vocals, uplifting storytelling, joyful energy, and moments of profound reflection. More than just a concert, a Mavis Staples performance is a celebration of music’s ability to bring people together across generations. Backed by an exceptional band and guided by the charisma and warmth that have made her one of America’s most beloved performers, Staples creates a live experience that is both deeply personal and universally inspiring. From soul-stirring ballads to foot-stomping gospel and rhythm & blues, this extraordinary night promises to leave audiences energized, moved, and reminded of the enduring power of hope through music. Mavis Staples on Facebook / Instagram

Come escape the ordinary with this modern-day Vaudeville act at the historic Sunshine Brooks Theater (217 N. Coast Highway, Oceanside, CA)! A night of fun-filled jazz on the mythical Moulin Rouge stage. Our international ALL STAR cast features Luca Pino, Eva Mikhailovna (and the Pepper Moons), Idun Carling, Rosemary Watson, Billy Galewood and Dexter Berrogain. Oceanside Theatre Company on Facebook / Instagram