8 Must-See Events Drawing Us to San Diego in 2017
San Diego's iconic beaches, renowned breweries, and top-tier attractions are compelling reasons to visit. But the 2017 event lineup seals the deal with unforgettable experiences.
Iconic gatherings like Comic-Con® International define the city, while newcomers like the Extreme Sailing Series™ make their SoCal debut. Here are eight standout events our travel experts can't miss:
1. A Beach Weekend Party Packed with San Diego-Style Games
Fiesta Island lives up to its name during the 64th Over-the-Line Tournament (July 8-9 and 15-16), hosted by the Old Mission Beach Athletic Club. This unique bat-and-ball game features teams of three, wooden softball bats, and no bases—just lines in the sand.
Imagine the ultimate beach party on Mission Bay, uniting locals and visitors for two weekends of fun. Enjoy free admission, bike valet, and shuttles. To play, register in person on May 6 at Beachcomber and Pennant bars in South Mission Beach or online from May 8. Follow @ombac on Twitter for updates.
2. Cheer 'GOOOOAL!' at the CONCACAF Gold Cup™
The U.S. hosts the 2017 biennial CONCACAF Gold Cup™—North, Central, and South America's premier men's soccer championship. On July 9, Group C double-header matches light up Qualcomm Stadium in San Diego.
First: Mexico vs. El Salvador, fueled by one of Latin America's fiercest rivalries. Followed by Jamaica vs. Curaçao in their Gold Cup debut.
3. Meet Real-Life Superheroes at the Nation's Top Comic Event
Comic book artists, celebrities, and fans converge on San Diego for Comic-Con® International (July 20-23)—America's largest comic and pop culture convention. Geek out with superheroes, their actors, and autographs in Artists' Alley.
Expect film previews, pro workshops, the Masquerade costume contest, and 350+ hours of programming. Dress as your favorite character—the convention center will buzz with cosplay.
4. A Music Festival with Pools, Spas, and Comedy
The Del Mar Fairgrounds host KAABOO® (Sept. 15-17), San Diego's premier music festival. Rock out to Red Hot Chili Peppers, P!nk, Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers, and Muse on a man-made beach or from an overlooking pool.
Beyond music: comedy shows, live public art, an indoor spa, gourmet cuisine, and craft beers elevate this event.
5. Up-Close Action at the Extreme Sailing Series™
For the first time in six years, the Extreme Sailing Series™ hits the Americas (Oct. 19-22). Watch high-speed, foiling 32-foot catamarans race just 16 feet offshore at Harbor Island.
The race village offers live music, beer gardens, boat pit access, and VIP water viewing. 
6. Prove San Diego's Title as Craft Beer Capital
With 130+ breweries—from Stone Brewing and Karl Strauss to Mother Earth Brew Co. and Modern Times—San Diego Beer Week (Nov. 3-12) lets you sample them all.
Kickoff features the VIP Brewer Takeover and San Diego Brewers Guild Festival (Nov. 3-4) with 60+ breweries. Over 500 events culminate at the Beer Garden at The Lodge at Torrey Pines on Nov. 12.
7. Classy Horse Racing at the Breeders' Cup®
Don your finest derby hat for the Breeders' Cup® World Championships at Del Mar (Nov. 3-4). Since 1984, top global thoroughbreds compete for a $6 million prize.
Coincides with Del Mar's Fall Bing Crosby Season (Nov. 1-26). New trackside luxury chalets, a sandy beach bar with screens, and a taco-tequila festival await.
8. Crown World Champion Adaptive Surfers
Surf fans and the International Surfing Association gather at La Jolla Shores for the ISA World Adaptive Surfing Championship. This third annual Paralympic-style event features surfers from 20+ countries vying for medals. Set for fall 2017—check for dates. 
Ready to Visit? Don't Miss San Diego's Must-See Spots
Sponsored by the San Diego Tourism Authority, funded in part by the San Diego Tourism Marketing District Corporation with City of San Diego Tourism Marketing District assessment funds.
