SAN DIEGO - There's no shortage of family friendly events, opportunities for beer enthusiasts, and runners this weekend.
The annual Cherry Blossom Festival is back just as our weather improves, and St. Patrick's Day celebrations will kick off around the county.
Fans of our local craft beer scene always have something fun to jump into in town and those who like to work off that beer with a run are in luck. Check out what you can't miss this weekend in San Diego:
12th Annual Cherry Blossom Festival @ Japanese Friendship Garden (2215 Pan American Road East) - Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
The Cherry Blossom Festival returns to the Japanese Friendship Garden of San Diego this weekend. the festival, also called Sakura Matsuri, marks the Japanese tradition of celebrating and enjoying cherry blossom flowers. There will also be beer and tea tasting, cultural performances, and unique cuisine to enjoy. More information.
Kinky Boots @ San Diego Civic Theater (1100 Third Ave.) - Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
The Tony Award-winning Broadway show, Kinky Boots, will play at the San Diego Civic Theater this weekend. Based on true events, the show follows a young man struggling to earn his father's acceptance and save the family shoe business. 10News reporter Jared Aarons spoke with cast members live on Facebook earlier this week (here.) More information.
37th annual St. Patrick's Day Parade and Irish Festival @ Balboa Park - Saturday
St. Patrick's Day will kick off early in San Diego, with a parade and Irish festival in Balboa Park this weekend. Enjoy live entertainment on two stages, traditional Irish fare, rides, and games. There's something for lasses and laddies of all ages. More information.
Hops in the Hills @ San Elijo Park (1105 Elfin Forest Rd.) - Saturday
Some of the area's most delicious craft beers will be available for tasting at the Hops in the Hills festival in San Marcos. More than 20 craft breweries will be represented in this festival with live music and food. Proceeds benefit San Elijo Elementary and Double Peak K-8 PTO. More information.
6th annual Taste of Bressi Festival @ Boys & Girls Clubs of Carlsbad (2730 Bressi Ranch Way) - Saturday
For its sixth year, the Taste of Bressi Festival gives residents and visitors some delectable options to sample. Beer, wine, and signature dishes can't be missed and live music and games offer up something for everyone. Proceeds benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs of Carlsbad. More information.
St. Patrick's Day 10K and 2/4 mile fun run @ Mission Bay Park (2688 E Mission Bay Dr.) - Saturday
Toss on your best St. Patrick's Day attire and lace up your running shoes for a dash through Mission Bay Park. After the race, refuel with pizza and drinks. More information.
Best Coast Beer Fest @ Embarcadero Park (200 Marina Park Way) - Saturday
Eighty breweries will be on hand at Embarcadero Park for the return of Best Coast Beer Festival. Beer lovers will get their taste of everything local and a little beyond at this event benefiting Cancer for College. Food trucks will be serving up some delicious eats and live music from Saved by the 90s, a 90s music cover band, will keep the party going. More information.
Fifth annual International Mariachi Festival and Competition @ Pepper Park (3299 Tidelands Ave.) - Sunday
National City's international mariachi festival supports youth music education opportunities and celebrates San Diego Mexican heritage. While the celebration will be full of music and Folklorico dancing, there will also be other attractions from bungee jumping to paintballing and, of course, food. More information.
San Diego Half Marathon, Relay, and 5K @ downtown San Diego (Fifth Avenue) - Sunday
The SD Half Marathon is a run organized by runners for runners that benefits community service projects and charity partners (100 percent of proceeds go toward local causes.) The route takes runners around the scenic San Diego Bay and finishes up with a Gaslamp District block party. More information.
The Science and Engineering of Lowriders @ Chicano Park - Sunday
The history, technology, and allure of lowriding will be on display at Chicano Park, as part of the San Diego Festival of Science & Engineering. This free event give historical tours of Chicano Park murals, a look into how lowriders work, and the history of lowriding culture and lowriding demonstrations. More information.
