La Jolla Art & Wine Festival Returns

In its third year raising a glass to two of the finer things in life— art and wine— the La Jolla Art & Wine Festival expects over 20,000 to join the celebration this year, held on October 1st and 2nd. Artists displaying their work delve into a variety of mediums from paintings, to sculpture, ceramics, jewelry, and photography. The festival takes place from 10am to 6pm on both days and features a beer and wine garden with an illuminated atmosphere set by live music.

Returning to the centrally located Girard Avenue, some of the finest local, regional, and international artists will display their work from San Diego, Los Angeles, Orange County, Baja and beyond. The eclectic mix of original artwork and all-star entertainment is just half of this much-anticipated event. The extensive beer and wine garden with around 30 wineries and 12 local breweries will serve drinks to guests 21 and older, for a taste of some of the region's finest wines and beers. Participating wineries include Las Piedras Vineyards, Cavas Valmar, Regal Wines, Karma Champagne, and Las Rocas. Breweries serving at the festival include Karl Strauss, Lost Abbey, and Mission Brewery.

Since its launch in 2009, the Art & Wine Festival has raised over $40,000 per year, with all proceeds benefiting local elementary schools. “Using artistic and creative resources, we’re raising money for La Jolla, Torrey Pines, and Bird Rock Elementary schools, all of whom are part of the financially troubled San Diego Unified School District,” says Sherry Ahern, chair and founder of LJAWF. “The support from the local community is phenomenal and continues to gain momentum each and every year."

A live music stage with nearly a dozen acts provides a soothing soundtrack to the heavy intake of art and wine. The musical lineup stretches from 11am-6pm on both days, featuring nationally renowned blues guitarist and singer-songwriter Robin Henkel and SD Music Award Winner for “Best Jazz Album” Steph Johnson.

Welcome the fall season with two days of the La Jolla Art & Wine Festival during the first weekend of October. Tickets to the festival are $10 for general admission and $5 for children 12 and under, military and seniors over 65. Tickets can be purchased the day of the festival. For more information, visit ljawf.org.

Discover more local entertainment ideas in our San Diego events calendar.