A Pair of Aces Book Tour to be held in Solana Beach

Friends of Solana Beach Library partners with Camino Books to present a “A Pair of Aces Book Tour with Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray” on Tuesday, July 21 at 6 p.m.

The event will be held in the Earl Warren Middle School Multipurpose Room located at 155 Stevens St., Solana Beach, adjacent to the Solana Beach County Library. The event is free and open to the public. Parking is available at the Solana Beach Library lower lot and at Earl Warren Middle School.

The two authors previously joined forces on their highly acclaimed bestseller “The Personal Librarian.”Support your local book store and pre-purchase a signed copy available through the Camino Books website at www.caminobks.com

A limited number of copies will be available for purchase at the event. For more information visit friendsofsolanabeachlibrary.org/events

‘Quality Music Education Available for All’ is speaker topic

Music has the power to unite, inspire, and transcend boundaries. Come and meet Dr. Fiona Chatwin, executive and artistic director of Villa Musica as she aims to make that power accessible to everyone. This engaging talk will occur on Tuesday, July 14 at 6 p.m. at the La Colonia Community Center, which is located at 715 Valley Avenue, Solana Beach.

This presentation is sponsored by Solana Beach Community Connections (SBCC) and the City of Solana Beach’s Parks and Recreation Department. The talk is free and open to the public. For more information, visit www.solanabeachcc.org

North Coast Repertory Theatre will present comedy Scapin

North Coast Rep will present Scapin July 22-Aug. 16. This high-energy comedy follows Scapin, the world’s greatest con artist, as he manipulates, schemes, and straight-up lies his way through an impossible situation, always one step ahead and turning every problem into a hilarious new opportunity. When two young lovers find themselves up against stubborn, money-minded fathers, Scapin jumps into action with outrageous tricks, bold lies, and comic chaos at every turn. A fresh, modern take on Molière’s beloved farce is packed with mischief, surprises, and nonstop laughs, North Coast Rep’s website states. Adapted by Bill Irwin and Mark O’Donnell, directed by Christopher Williams

For tickets and more information, visit www.northcoastrep.org/production/scapin/

Concerts at the Cove

The Concerts at the Cove series, hosted by the city of Solana Beach and the Belly Up, features local musicians performing from 6 to 7:45 p.m. Thursdays through Aug. 6 for all ages at the Fletcher Cove Park stage, 111 S. Sierra Ave. Upcoming concerts include: July 9: Buz Campbell & The Heartaches / Rockabilly; July 16: Salty Papa / R&B-Blues; July 23: Piki Moreno / Classics; July 30: Barbwire / Country; Aug. 6: Coronado Big Band / Swing Orchestra.Admission is free. The public is encouraged to bring low-back beach chairs, ground cover and picnics. No alcohol, tobacco, pets or personal barbecues are allowed during concerts. Visit cityofsolanabeach.org.

2026 Summer Twilight Concerts in Del Mar

The Del Mar Foundation’s remaining 2026 Summer Twilight Concerts will be held July 14, July 28 and Aug. 11 beginning at 6 p.m. with the Coral Del Mar Opening Act, followed at 7 p.m. with the main attraction.The concerts give families and friends the opportunity to enjoy music, dance and picnics in a beautiful setting. All concerts will be held at Powerhouse Park in Del Mar (1658 Coast Blvd.)and are free to attend.For more information go to: www.delmarfoundation.org/programs/twilight/

Summer and Songs begins July 9

The Village at Pacific Highlands Ranch’s annual live music series returns on Thursday, July 9, starting with singer Celeste Barbier. Every year the center attempts to bring back the same local talented musicians and singers, for the special performances on Thursday nights from 6-8 p.m. The live music will be held in the village square. Address: 13490 Pacific Highlands Ranch Parkway, Carmel Valley.

Coffee in the Courtyard

Calvary Lutheran Church hosts Coffee in the Courtyard at 11 a.m. Sundays in the church’s courtyard, 424 Via de la Valle. The community is invited to come for hot coffee, fresh pastries and camaraderie. Visit calvarylutheranchurch.org.

Summer study series to rediscover the Bible

The Village Church starts a summer study series July 12 on “Scripture: The Word Made Flesh” that helps people rediscover the Bible. The series includes guided video teaching and discussion, where participants explore practical ways to read, understand and embody Scripture in everyday life. The free study group meet Sundays at 11:45 a.m. in the church parlor, 6225 Paseo Delicias, and is open to all. For questions, email davidh@villagechurch.org.

Cardiff Dog Days of Summer returns for its 21st anniversary

Cardiff 101 Main Street will hold the 21st Annual Cardiff Dog Days of Summer, presented by Kahoots, on Sunday, Aug. 2, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Encinitas Community Park.

Visitors can explore more than 100 vendors offering dog-related products and services, meet local rescue organizations and adoption agencies in Rescue Row, and shop handmade goods from regional artisans in Maker’s Market Row. The event will also feature live music, dog contests, children’s activities, food vendors, and a Libation Lounge serving adult beverages, a news release stated.The event is free and open to the public. Friendly, leashed dogs are welcome. For more information about the event, the VIP Experience, becoming a vendor, or donating to the opportunity drawing, visit www.cardiff101.com or follow @cardiff101mainstreet on Instagram for ongoing updates.

18th Annual Operation Game On Golf Classic

The 18th Annual Operation Game On Golf Classic will be held on Monday, Aug. 24, at Fairbanks Ranch Country Club.

The Golf Classic is Operation Game On’s premier fundraising event, and every registration, sponsorship, and donation helps the organization continue providing life-changing programs and opportunities for veterans.

Registration begins at 10 a.m. Shotgun start begins at 11:15 a.m. The event’s Awards Banquet and Live Auction will start at approximately 4:30 p.m.To register, become a sponsor, or donate, visit www.OperationGameOn.org

Batiquitos Lagoon to hold speaker presentation on ‘Our Human Journey’

Batiquitos Lagoon will hold a presentation on July 11 at 10 a.m. titled, “Our Human Journey”, given by guest speaker and archaeologist Adam Niesley. He will discuss the story of 12,000 years of humanity in San Diego, revealing how scientists piece together a cohesive understanding of how we have adapted to changing climates, shifting coastlines, disappearing megafauna, and new food resources. Events take place outside, so please dress accordingly. Meet at the Nature Center, 7380 Gabbiano Lane, Carlsbad. For more information, visit Batiquitoslagoon.org. In case of rain, events will be cancelled and rescheduled.

Free talk on advance care planning

A free presentation on dementia directives as part of advance care planning is from 1 to 2:30 p.m. July 9 at the Pacific Highlands Ranch Public Library, 12911 Pacific Place off Carmel Valley Road, hosted by nonprofit Compassion & Choices. Visit compassionandchoices.org.

Free pet vaccination clinic

A free pet vaccination clinic is from 9 a.m. to noon July 11 at nonprofit Rancho Coastal Humane Society by the Brock’s Community Pet Food Bank on the North campus, 389 Requeza St. The clinic offers vaccinations for dogs and cats, rabies vaccinations, licensing, microchips, pet food and other supplies. The event is in partnership with Petco Love. Dogs must be on leash or in carriers and cats must be in carriers. Registration is required at sdpets.org/Vaccineclinic.

Tramonto Music Festival

The City of Encinitas invites all to experience the return of the Tramonto Music Festival, July 17–19, at the Encinitas Library (540 Cornish Drive, Encinitas).

Under the artistic direction of internationally-acclaimed pianist Jacopo Giacopuzzi, Tramonto brings together award-winning musicians from around the world for three unforgettable performances celebrating classical music, artistry, and the beauty of the Southern California coast, according to a news release.

The 2026 festival will feature internationally acclaimed musicians and award-winning artists, including pianists Jacopo Giacopuzzi and Alvise Pascucci, flutist Tommaso Benciolini, violinist Jessica Guideri, cellist Allan Hon, bassist Angelica Gasperetti, and drummer/composer Liam Wallace.

For tickets and more schedule information, visit shorturl.at/sPJAo, phone: 760-633-2746, at the door subject to availability.

Harry Potter in concert

The first Harry Potter movie will be shown during a special concert event at The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park. The audience will have two chances to see and hear the San Diego Symphony Orchestra perform John Williams’ score of “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” while the film is playing. 7 p.m. Aug. 21 and 22. The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park, 222 Marina Park Way, San Diego. $51-$173. theshell.org

Summer Nights in the garden concerts

Summer Nights is back at the San Diego Botanic Garden from 4 to 8 p.m. with extended garden hours through Aug. 6. The outdoor concert series features a variety of music and blooms on the Gazebo Lawn. Concerts range from Country Night and Honky Tonk to ’80s Cover Bands and Surf Rock, starting at 5:30 p.m., with live music continuing to 7:15 p.m. Tickets are $20; $10 for garden members at sdbg.org.

Volunteers wanted at the USS Midway Museum

Volunteers are wanted at the USS Midway Museum. This is an opportunity to share in the passion of having fun, while building a greater sense of community through an enriching volunteer experience. No military experience is required, a news release stated.Opportunities are available in ship restoration, docents, education, airwing and safety.For application and further information go to: www.midway.org/contact/volunteer-opportunities or call (619) 398-8289. Email volunteering@midway.org.

Teen foster volunteers sought

The Teen Foster Program at Rancho Coastal Humane Society gives teenagers 15 and older an opportunity to work hands-on with homeless animals while they earn service hours for their school or other organization. The average length of stay in foster care is four to six weeks. Training and parental approval are required. Call 760-753-6413 or visit sdpets.org.

Nominations sought for Real Heroes Awards

The American Red Cross of San Diego and Imperial Counties seeks nominees for its 24th Annual Real Heroes Awards. The organization is looking for community members who “step up in extraordinary ways to help others, save lives or strengthen their communities from bold, lifesaving acts to quiet moments of courage.” Honorees will be recognized in eight categories: Animal Welfare Hero, Corporate Hero, Disaster Services Hero, First Responder Hero, Gift of Life Hero, Good Samaritan Hero, Service, Armed Forces Hero and Youth Hero. Nominations are due by July 24. Visit redcross.org/sandiego/realheroes.

Torrey Pines Conservancy: Sharks, saplings, and a shoreline at risk

On July 15, from 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m., Torrey Pines Conservancy and the Torrey Pines Docent Society are hosting Dr. Chris Lowe, director of the CSULB Shark Lab, for a free public talk on why this summer may bring more white shark sightings to the local coastline, and what that actually means for anyone who swims, surfs, or spends time at the beach.Lowe and his students have spent 15 years tracking juvenile white sharks in Southern California waters using acoustic and satellite telemetry. Their research helped establish the California Shark Beach Safety Program in 2018, and their work at Torrey Pines specifically has shaped how researchers understand the way environmental conditions affect how sharks use this beach. The event is free. RSVP to:www.torreypines.org/event/sharksummer/

Comic-Con

Comics, superheroes, Japanese animation, vintage toys and cosplay fans will assemble in the San Diego Convention Center and the Gaslamp Quarter for the 2026 Comic-Con International. The yearly convention includes panel discussions, movie and television showings, an exhibitor hall, outdoor activations, a masquerade ball and more. July 22-26. San Diego Convention Center, 111 Harbor Drive, San Diego. comic-con.org

“North by Northwest” premiere

The Old Globe is hosting the North American premiere of “North by Northwest.” The play is English director Emma Rice’s interpretation of Alfred Hitchcock’s film “North by Northwest.” The story takes place in the 1950s and is about Roger Thornhill, who works in the advertising industry, and is mistaken for a Cold War spy. Rice’s version is a funnier, high-speed theatrical thriller with 1950s swing music and is shown via the Mount Rushmore backdrop, according to The Old Globe. July 3 through Aug. 2. The Old Globe, 1363 Old Globe Way, San Diego. 619-234-5623, theoldglobe.org

Spreckels 38th Summer Organ Festival

Spreckels Organ Society will put on its 38th Summer Organ Festival with Alcee Chriss III from 7:30 to 9 p.m. July 13 at the Spreckels Organ Pavilion, 2125 Pan American Road in Balboa Park. The summer-long festival features the historic Spreckels Organ with 5,098 pipes of up to 32 feet long, and nine percussion instruments located throughout the building. The music fest is directed by Raúl Prieto Ramírez, Spreckels Organ Society’s artistic director and San Diego’s civic organist. These 90-minute, free admission concerts are performed by acclaimed international artists each Monday at 7:30 p.m. July 13 to Sept. 7. Visit spreckelsorgan.org/summer-organ-festival.

Shark Summer at aquarium

A Shark Summer celebration runs through Aug. 2 at the Birch Aquarium, 2300 Expedition Way. Events and activities focus on the important role sharks play in the ecosystem and highlight conservation efforts and research. Activities range from fun talks and feedings to pop-up science and interactive stations. Activities are included with aquarium admission, except for Oceans at Night: Sharks. Admission is $29.95 to $39.95. Visit birchaquariumprograms.com/mainstore?vid=0&cid=1270.

Symphony Pops concert

A musical journey through America will be the theme of the North Coast Symphony Pops concert at 2:30 p.m. July 11 at San Dieguito United Methodist Church. The program features music that celebrates America’s people, places and spirit. Highlights include Gershwin’s “O Land of Mine,” Copland’s inspiring “Variations on a Shaker Melody,” and favorites from Broadway hits “Oklahoma!” and “Chicago.” The concert continues through New Orleans jazz, New York City and the American West. Admission is $18 general, $15 seniors/students/military, and free for children 18 and under. Visit northcoastsymphony.com.

LITVAKdance presents Dancing Outdoors: Take 4

LITVAKdance will hold its popular summer show, Dancing Outdoors: Take 4, in the beautiful gardens at ICA San Diego, North Campus in Encinitas. The show will be held Saturday, Aug. 1, at 5:45 p.m. and 8:15 p.m.Dancing Outdoors: Take 4 highlights some of the diverse dance companies and artists that reside in Encinitas. Enjoy a cocktail and watch seven styles of dance, listen to live music by Encinitas band Montalban Quintet, peruse the gorgeous natural spaces and check out ICA’s current exhibition, Unfold Projects.For tickets and more information, go to LITVAKdance.org/performsICA San Diego North is located at 1578 S El Camino Real, Encinitas.

Batiquitos Lagoon nature walk about bird migration

Batiquitos Lagoon will hold a docent-led nature walk on July 18 at 10 a.m. to learn about bird migration. Join Wildlife Biologist Viviane Marquez and learn about hummingbirds that migrate 500 miles in 24 hours, and which birds fly by night and which by day, and why birds fly more quickly in the spring than in the fall, and other fun facts. This 90-minute walk is free and good for all ages 12 and over. Meet at the Nature Center, 7380 Gabbiano Lane, Carlsbad. In case of rain, events will be canceled and rescheduled. For more information, visit Batiquitoslagoon.org.