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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

Join us for an afternoon of culture, community, and connection as Civic Center Plaza comes alive with live cultural performances, local vendors, and experiences that showcase cultures from around the world. Browse a variety of vendors offering international food and drinks, handcrafted art, and unique goods while enjoying live music and cultural programming presented by Centered for World Music. Taste of Diversity is a celebration of the people, traditions, and stories that make San Diego a welcoming place for all. Visit: https://downtownsandiego.org/events/taste-of-diversity/

Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated from September 15 until October 15. We've compiled a list of nine events in San Diego to celebrate Hispanic culture.

Chalk Circle Collective presents a brand new play in an experimental workshop production to Cygnet Theatre's Joan Performing Arts Center. "Advanced Persistent Teenagers" by Deepak Kumar (House of India at the Old Globe) follows 2 teenage hackers, Axyz and Lapras, who only know each other through online voice chat. When their hacker collective, dark w0rld, abruptly disbands, the boys find themselves adrift. Searching for purpose—and still craving the rush—the two launch a plan that may just change the hacker world forever. This "workshop production" is a novel concept rarely seen in the landscape of professional theatre. The 2-person play will be fully staged and produced - but because this workshop process is an opportunity for playwright Deepak Kumar to revise and explore, the actors will have new rewrites for every performance. With new script pages in hand, our two incredible actors will navigate a different and unique version of the play each night. There will even be 2 alternate endings on the 2 weekends at the Joan so you can come back and see just how much has changed! Becks Redman, artistic producer at the Old Globe, directs this production starring Devyn Wade and Giancarlo Lugo. Chalk Circle Collective is the avant garde theatre company behind last year's "The Strangers" at the Old Town theatre and the award-winning productions of "Constellations" and "The Turn of the Screw" Chalk Circle Collective on Facebook / Instagram

The Chicano Block Party is an annual celebration of Chicano art, culture, and community presented by the California Center for the Arts Museum in honor of Chicano Heritage Month in California. Inspired by the exhibitions and artists featured at the Museum, the event brings together artists, musicians, lowrider clubs, community organizations, and visitors for a day of art, music, food, and cultural programming. Event Highlights Lowrider Car Show Presented in collaboration with Lady Lowriders Car Club, the car show celebrates the craftsmanship, creativity, and cultural traditions of lowrider culture. Art Market & Printmaking Fair Browse original artwork, prints, zines, books, apparel, and handmade goods from local artists, publishers, and independent vendors. The Museum Sculpture Courtyard will also feature live printmaking demonstrations and hands-on activities organized in collaboration with the San Diego Printmaking Society. Live Music & DJs Enjoy music throughout the day from local DJs and performers across the campus. Artist Workshops & Demonstrations Participate in hands-on activities and learn directly from artists, printmakers, and community organizations. Live Mural by José Hugo Sánchez Visit the Museum galleries to watch José Hugo Sánchez create a new mural throughout the day as part of his exhibition Amoxtlis. Pop-Up Installations Discover temporary artworks and creative interventions presented throughout the campus by invited artists and community collaborators. California Center for the Arts, Escondido on Facebook / Instagram

For animation lovers, the creations of Chuck Jones have been a staple of many childhoods. During Comic-Con week, the Chuck Jones Gallery in Seaport Village invites visitors to view original animation art, new releases and special presentations and panels. Special guests include Disney artist Steve Barton, “The Simpsons” animator Stephen Reis and Ben Olson, an animation director and licensed Warner Bros., Hanna-Barbera and Disney fine artist. Thursday, July 23-Saturday, July 25 | Chuck Jones Gallery, 809 W Harbor Drive, Seaport Village

The SAMAHAN Filipino American Performance Arts & Education Center will present its 39th annual Philippine Cultural Arts Festival on the Presidents Way Lawn along Park Boulevard in Balboa Park at 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, August 22 and on Sunday, August 23. Admission is FREE. This beloved community Festival is made possible through generous grant funding from the Dr. Lolita D. Carter Endowment administered by the San Diego Foundation, support from the County of San Diego Supv. District 4, Community Enhancement Program, and contributions from individual donors. Dubbed SamaFest 2026, the festival is a family-oriented celebration centered on cultural heritage, vibrant entertainment and meaningful networking. Held at a strategic, accessible location in Balboa Park, the festival has consistently attracted a large and diverse crowd of park visitors over the years. It offers San Diego locals as well as tourists a welcoming opportunity to discover and appreciate Philippine culture and performing arts through traditional dances and live music. This two-day event showcases vibrant folk and ethnic dances from various regions of the Philippines, performed by the graceful dancers of SAMAHAN Arts and accompanied by the lively sounds of the SAMAHAN Rondalla, Kulintang and Gangsa (gong) Music Ensembles. Each dance and ethnic ritual is brought to life with colorful, beautifully crafted traditional and regional attire, specially worn for each performance. The festivities also feature mainstream entertainment, including contemporary dance numbers, vocal acts by local guest artists, and thrilling martial arts demonstrations. Adding to the experience are visual art displays by local creators, vendors selling handmade crafts, books, and unique goods, along with a mouthwatering selection of Filipino and Asian fusion dishes and desserts, including the ever-popular halo-halo. Samahan Fil-Am Performing Arts on Facebook / Instagram

First, we look over some data to determine both the personal cost and regional economic impact of Comic-Con. Then, a congressman says a detention center policy is getting in the way of his ability to conduct oversight visits. Also, we’ll tell you how a newly updated Air attack base helped to stop the wildfire in Ramona. Next, a preview of the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art and the International Bicycle Film Festival. And, some weekend event ideas taking place across the county that you and yours could take part in.

The Library's Autumn Concert Series takes place on Fridays from September 9 to October 3. Each concert will begin at 1 p.m. in the Winn Room. Doors will open 15 minutes prior to the performance. On September 25, we will have Vania Pimentel on the piano. She will perform her "Mostly Brazilian" program, which features musicians like Itiberê, Nazareth, and Nepomuceno, with also an homage to the Spanish composer Manuel de Falla, 150 years from his birth.

Join us on August 21 from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. for ARTS After Dark: Animal Felt Tiles! We’ll learn how to design animal felt prints and will have various decorative elements to add dimension and texture to the piece. The event will be led by our amazing ARTS Artist, Alondra. 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! A Reason To Survive (ARTS) on Facebook / Instagram