Weekend Preview: Best Events 2/21-26

From a massive Mardi Gras block party with world-renowned DJs, to hip hop stars invading intimate nightclubs, a high-fashion Nordstrom Designer Preview and Culture & Cocktails with a twist, discover this week’s best San Diego events.

Gaslamp Mardi Gras – Tuesday, Feb. 21

The Gaslamp Quarter presents the first mega block party of the year on Tuesday night, celebrating the spirit of Mardi Gras in SoCal style. Party-goers can expect multiple stages of themed entertainment, including world-renowned DJ Paul Oakenfold, Colette, Kele of Block Party, Scooter & Lavelle, Brett Bodley, Craig Smoove and more, as well as a traditional masquerade parade down Fifth Avenue. Get details here.

Lil Jon & DJ Felli Fel Live at Side Bar – Wednesday, Feb. 22

What? Yeah! Side Bar is taking industry Wednesday to a whole new level this week, featuring a live performance by hip hop icons Lil Jon and DJ Felli Fel. You won’t want to miss this intimate performance during downtown San Diego’s best Wednesday night industry bash. Get details here.

Nordstrom Designer Preview at Broadway Pier – Thursday, Feb. 23

The Nordstrom Designer Preview is back, showcasing the top American and European designer collections for spring. Enjoy an exclusive runway fashion show with haute looks from Lanvin, Missoni, Chanel, Oscar de la Renta, Stella McCartney and more, as you taste cocktails and hors d’oeuvres and partake in intimate boutique shopping in a waterfront setting. All ticket sale proceeds benefit Promises2Kids. Get details here.

Culture & Cocktails at San Diego Museum of Art – Thursday, Feb. 23

Echoes of the Past explores the Buddhist cave temples of Xiangtangshan through 6th century Chinese Buddhist sculpture intermixed with 21st century 3D-imaging technology. Experience the new exhibition during Culture & Cocktails as the museum opens up at night with spirits, music, art stations and themed surprises. As DJ Scott Roberts spins zen tunes, enjoy a projection-style photo booth, an Asian fusion cocktail station, and body painted models strutting through the scene. Get details here. (pictured)

Milkman Live at Stingaree – Friday, Feb. 24

Gregg Luskin, a native San Diegan now known as Milkman, is returning to his home town to spin live at super club Stingaree this Friday night. Milkman is a hip-hop, electronic and rock music producer who got his start at the University of California, Santa Barbara and has since worked with such big names as Kid Cudi, Lil’ Jon and Three 6 Mafia. Get to know the Milkman in our DJ Spotlight. Get details here.

Showstopper Theme Launch Party at FLUXX – Friday, Feb. 24

It’s that time again; FLUXX is set to unveil the new theme this Friday night. Showstopper channels the spirit of the Las Vegas showgirl, from bedazzled club décor to risqué costumes and inspired choreography. Our inside sources tell us to expect an abundance of crystals, feathers and an oversized rotating chandelier that FLUXX’s signature dancers will call home for the next six weeks. Be first to see the new theme Showstopper come to life this Friday night, with beats by DJ Brett Bodley. Get details here.

A.W.O.L. Snow in South Lake Tahoe – Feb. 24-27

Craving an adventure? A.W.O.L. Snow is taking over Tahoe Feb. 24-27, introducing the mountain town to Another Way of Life defined by fresh powder snow sports, indoor heated pool parties, and nightclub events, all fueled by the undeniable energy of Electronic Dance Music. The line-up features Cedric Gervais, Sander Kleinenberg, Chris Lake, Anthony Attalla, Manufactured Superstars and more. Get details here.

Oscar Night America San Diego – Sunday, Feb. 26

Dress up and join the who’s who of San Diego for the ultimate 84th Annual Academy Awards viewing party. A local event officially sanctioned by the Academy of Motions Picture Arts and Sciences, Oscar Night America will embrace the excitement and glamour of Hollywood, while supporting a great cause in our own backyard. Proceeds will benefit the Community Council’s Kids to Camp Program. Get details here.

More San Diego Parties & Events:

The Barrel & The Beast Dinner at Alchemy – Feb. 21

Mardi Gras After Party ft. Zen Freeman at Float – Feb. 21

Hunks All Male Vegas Revue Show at 4th & B - Feb. 22

Sassy City Chicks Fashion Bash at Horton Plaza - Feb. 23

Tower After Hours: Ireland at San Diego Museum of Man – Feb. 23

The Slpwlkrs Live at Ivy Nightclub – Feb. 23

EDM ft. Manufactured Superstars at FLUXX – Feb. 23

Taboo of the Black Eyed Peas at 207 – Feb. 24

LED Presents Sharam at Voyeur – Feb. 24

Bombs Away Live at Bar West – Feb. 25

Best Damn Barrel Night at Downtown Johnny Brown’s – Feb. 25

iTAN Customer Appreciation Weekend – Feb. 25-26

Sound Bites: Mission Monique at Mission Brewery – Feb. 26

‘A Few Good Men’ Bachelor Auction at PB Shore Club – Feb. 29

Discover more local entertainment ideas in our San Diego events calendar