Little Italy’s exciting end-of-year events

If you’re looking for a spot to have some fun as the year wraps up, Little Italy’s got you covered! From the ghoulish celebrations of Halloween and dancing the night away to the sounds of America at the Fleet Week concert, to getting ready for the holiday season, there is no shortage of entertainment in this vibrant urban neighborhood.

Trick-or-Treat on India Street: A hauntingly fun night for the family

Calling all families of goblins and monsters, it’s time to put on your best costume and get ready for Trick-or-Treat on India Street! Taking place from on Oct. 27 from 3:30 to 7:30 p.m., the event will feature an array of local businesses and neighbors, inviting families of all ages to peruse down India Street and trick-or-treat as the spook-tacular sounds of Halloween music fill the air. The Piazza della Famiglia will be getting a visit from a giant 13-foot Jack Skellington and the Christmas Wreath Monster as it transforms into a Nightmare Before Christmas-themed experience. With pumpkins stacked sky high, fun photo opportunities at the Oogie Boogie backdrop, and locally conjured Halloween treats and goods, this event will highlight the community’s small businesses as they show off their spooky spirit!

Anchors away: Fleet Week Concert Series sets sail for a night of celebration

Join Little Italy for a special evening of music at the Fleet Week Concert Series! As part of the annual Fleet Week celebrations, this series will honor our military service members with a spectacular lineup of performances. The Navy Band Southwest Rock Band will take the stage on Sunday, Nov. 3 and the Marine Band San Diego Sound Strike on Monday, Nov 4. to perform stirring renditions of classic American tunes, patriotic anthems, and contemporary hits. Nov. 4 also marks Gunnery Sergeant John Basilone’s birthday, a United States Marine who received the Medal of Honor for his actions at the Battle of Guadalcanal during World War II. He was the only enlisted Marine in World War II to receive both the Medal of Honor and the Navy Cross. This family-friendly event is a perfect way to show support for our armed forces and honor a remarkable figure while enjoying an unforgettable night of live music. Don’t miss out on this tribute to those who serve!

Looking ahead: Small business season, unique tours, and holiday celebrations

The holiday shopping season is just around the corner, and what better way to find unique gifts than by exploring the local shops of Little Italy! Small business season is the perfect time to get carefully curated and crafted presents for friends and family. Little Italy is your go-to area to get fresh ingredients for your holiday meals, find thoughtful trinkets to give, shop for new styles for winter, and more. For a quick dive into all of the special local spots this neighborhood has to offer, get an official tour with So Diego Tours! Starting Oct. 1, in partnership with the Little Italy Association, visitors and locals alike can explore all the community has to offer with guided wine, food, and beer tours. Not what you’re looking for? There will be customizable tours available for those looking to explore a particular aspect of the neighborhood. To book a tour and learn about all of Little Italy’s local gems, visit the Little Italy website.

On Dec. 7 from 4 to 8 p.m., prepare to walk through a winter wonderland at the beloved Little Italy Tree Lighting & Christmas Village! Adorned with twinkling lights, 10-foot-tall nutcrackers, and kinetic tree holiday displays, the streets of the neighborhood will bring holiday cheer for all. The tree lighting will be double the fun with both a permanent 25-foot tree and Joshua Hubert’s magical Aurora tree. Patrons can enjoy live music and entertainment, get unique stocking stuffers with a range of seasonal vendors, experience a traditional Italian tree lighting ceremony, and most importantly, meet Santa to make sure all of their holiday wishes come true!