Connection and creativity all summer long
Even though Carlsbad has grown and changed over time, residents agree that it still has the small-town beach community character and connectedness that made them want to live here in the first place. Diverse community members of all ages enjoy participating in the wide array of programs and events offered by the city, where they run into neighbors, meet new friends, and, most importantly, feel welcome and included.
Arts and culture play a huge role in keeping that small-town feel alive. Don’t miss out on these fabulous (and free!) opportunities:
TGIF Concerts in the Parks
From country to yacht rock, 80s new wave to salsa, funk to 90s rock – there’s music to bring everyone to the dance floor at this long-running summer concert series taking place in our beautiful parks. Pack a picnic and grab some friends for pre-concert art activities and a free dance lesson offered before each performance. Skip the parking lot and take advantage of the bike valet at all concerts, or consider using the complimentary shuttle service available at Calavera Hills and Alga Norte Community Parks.
Live music at Carlsbad City Library
If crowds aren’t your thing but you still enjoy music outdoors, Saturdays in the Courtyard are for you. Musicians spanning jazz, rock, acoustic folk, and world music delight audiences in the magical Ann Kulchin Courtyard at Carlsbad City Library. If you prefer enjoying music indoors in comfortable theater-style seats, Front Row Saturdays in the intimate Schulman Auditorium is the place to be to hear high-quality professional ensembles. Best of all, performances start at 5 p.m. and last one hour, leaving plenty of time for dinner with friends, relaxing, or anything else you’d like to do with the rest of the evening.
“alchemy + light” exhibition:
Now showing at the Cannon Art Gallery through August 23, the artists of True North Photo Society explore the interplay of alchemy and light in their newest collection of photographic works. This exhibit highlights their innovative approaches to transforming moments into luminous visual experiences. Visitors are invited to discover the subtle magic found in each image. Artist talks and hands-on open studios events are being held regularly to help you enrich your appreciation and understanding of the art-making process.
Film screenings
On Wednesdays and Fridays at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m., join us in the Schulman Auditorium at Carlsbad City Library for a state-of-the-art movie experience complete with 4K projection and cinema-quality surround sound. See blockbuster favorites, international films, and documentaries to discover new stories and places through the vision of talented filmmakers.
For kids, the popular Club Pelican summer camps return to Batiquitos Lagoon for three weeks in July. Registration is still open for this unique camp led by city art instructors and docents from the nature center that offers an escape from screens to enjoy an idyllic week exploring nature and art in one of Carlsbad’s most scenic locations.
With such vibrant choices, summer in Carlsbad can be as creative as you imagine!
Complete information is available on the city’s website: www.carlsbadca.gov/arts