Entry to the festival is completely free, and there’s plenty to enjoy without spending a cent. From live music and performances to carnival games, crafts, and local vendors, it’s an afternoon designed to bring together families, neighbors, and visitors. The stage lineup this year is especially strong, showcasing local student performances, high-energy cover bands, the crowd-pleasing Taylor Swift Experience tribute, and even a set by the U.S. Navy 32nd Street Brass Band. The day wraps up with FastTrax keeping the energy high until the festival’s close, ensuring the event ends on a celebratory note.
Beyond the music, the University Heights Fall Festival offers an incredible variety of things to see and do. Kids can enjoy bounce houses, face painting, a petting zoo, and hands-on activities in the art and science tents. There’s also a butterfly garden, carnival-style games, and a pumpkin patch that perfectly capture the flavors of fall. For adults, a dedicated beer and wine garden offers craft beer from University Heights’ own Kairoa Brewing Co. and wine from Clos Wine Shop.
While the event is free, activity and drink tickets help support a good cause - 100% of proceeds go to Alice Birney Elementary, a Title I public school serving more than 530 students. The funds directly benefit essential enrichment programs in art, music, theater, gardening, and Spanish, all of which are not covered by the district’s budget. Early bird discounted tickets for activities and drinks are on sale through Friday, October 17, at 4:30pm, and will be available for pickup at Will Call on the day of the event.
Festivalgoers can also browse the artisan market, featuring handcrafted goods and unique items from San Diego makers. A variety of food trucks and vendors will be serving up local favorites throughout the day, each accepting direct payment for easy convenience.
Free parking is available next to Birney Elementary, with additional street parking nearby. Guests are encouraged to set their GPS to 4345 Campus Avenue for parking access or to take the #11 bus, which stops right in front of the festival. Attendees are encouraged to bring a reusable water bottle, a blanket for lounging on the grass, and their fall spirit - but pets should stay home.
The University Heights Fall Festival takes place Saturday, October 18, from 12–5pm at Birney Field, 4324 Park Boulevard in San Diego’s University Heights. For more information and to purchase early bird tickets, visit uhfallfestival.com.
Originally published on October 11, 2025.
Free parking is available next to Birney Elementary, with additional street parking nearby. Guests are encouraged to set their GPS to 4345 Campus Avenue for parking access or to take the #11 bus, which stops right in front of the festival. Attendees are encouraged to bring a reusable water bottle, a blanket for lounging on the grass, and their fall spirit - but pets should stay home.
The University Heights Fall Festival takes place Saturday, October 18, from 12–5pm at Birney Field, 4324 Park Boulevard in San Diego’s University Heights. For more information and to purchase early bird tickets, visit uhfallfestival.com.
Originally published on October 11, 2025.
