An Evening Where Music and Cuisine Take Center Stage

For decades, Mainly Mozart has stood as one of San Diego’s most distinguished cultural treasures — a celebration of artistry, excellence, and the timeless beauty of classical music. Founded with the vision of making world-class performances accessible and engaging, the organization has grown into a cornerstone of the region’s arts scene, drawing celebrated musicians, devoted patrons, and curious newcomers alike into its orbit.

Known for its extraordinary orchestral performances and commitment to music education, Mainly Mozart goes beyond the concert hall. It is an organization rooted in community, creativity, and connection — elevating classical music through innovative programming while nurturing the next generation of musicians and music lovers.

On March 14, that same spirit of refinement and creativity takes on a new expression as Mainly Mozart hosts an intimate culinary celebration at the iconic Westgate Hotel in downtown San Diego.

Set within one of the city’s most elegant and historic hotels, the evening promises a curated experience where fine dining and classical music intertwine. Guests will be immersed in an atmosphere of sophistication — enjoying thoughtfully prepared cuisine, inspired pairings, and live musical moments that reflect the artistry and excellence for which Mainly Mozart is known. More than a traditional gala, the culinary event is designed as a sensory journey — one that invites conversation, indulgence, and appreciation for the creative disciplines that bring people together. Each detail of the evening reflects the organization’s philosophy: that art, whether heard or tasted, is meant to be experienced fully and shared generously. Beyond its elegance, the March 14 event plays an essential role in supporting Mainly Mozart’s mission. 

Proceeds from the evening help sustain the organization’s performances, educational initiatives, and community outreach — ensuring that classical music continues to thrive in San Diego and beyond. It is an evening for those who appreciate beauty in all its forms — from the cadence of a perfectly played passage to the pleasure of a thoughtfully crafted dish — and for those who believe that the arts remain a vital part of a vibrant, connected city.

A WinterFest Welcome at The Conrad

On Wednesday, March 25, 2026, La Jolla’s cultural calendar shines a little brighter as the La Jolla Music Society WinterFest Gala returns to The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center—an evening where artistry, community, and philanthropy meet in true LJMS style.  More than a glamorous night out, the WinterFest Gala is a celebration with purpose: guests gather to champion the Music Society’s work onstage and beyond it, supporting Artistic excellence and Learning & Engagement programs that bring music into more lives across San Diego.  

This year’s gala—chaired by Liqun Wang and Marco Londei—promises a sweeping evening of elegance and impact, culminating in a rare recital experience with one of classical music’s most beloved stars.  Guests will step into the night with a 5:00 pm Champagne Reception, followed by the energy and excitement of a 6:30 PM live auction and paddle raise—a signature moment where generosity fuels the future of music in our community. At 7:00 pm the spotlight turns to the stage for Lang Lang, piano, performing selections from the works of Chopin—a centerpiece performance designed to be both intimate and unforgettable. The evening continues with an 8:00 pm elegant seated dinner, and concludes with a 9:30 PM after-party celebration worthy of a WinterFest finale.  

Whether you’re a longtime supporter or attending for the first time, the WinterFest Gala is an invitation to be part of something lasting—an evening of beauty that helps ensure the next extraordinary performance, the next inspired student, and the next community connection through music.  

The San Diego Crew Classic

The San Diego Crew Classic is the premiere spring rowing regatta. It is highly regarded among rowers spanning generations.

But the SDCC is more than just an event for rowing. San Diego is famous for its multi-faceted and multi-cultural experiences, events, and destinations. The Crew Classic is not only an athletic event with competitors at the peak of physical fitness, but a social gathering for enthusiasts to enjoy great local food, a beer garden with San Diego’s famous local craft breweries, and shopping all while soaking in Mission Bay, just a mile from the beach.

The San Diego Crew Classic spans a lifetime of rowing, bringing athletes from novice to Olympian together, and is the place for rowers to “grow up”.  Many athletes first spring regatta experience is at the SDCC as high school competitors. As a teenager, the SDCC is the greatest introduction to the world of rowing: it is larger than life — the jumbotron, the considerable number of spectators, and rowing shells as far as the eye can see.  As a collegiate athlete, the SDCC means a chance to size up the spring’s competition across the nation and to earn rankings which will affect the rest of the season. 

As alumni, the SDCC is the place to reconnect with former teammates, friends, and coaches. Many alumni continue to race in both alumni and masters’ club events. It is a common meeting place for families, children, and friends too. The Crew Classic is a place to educate your children and families on the beauty of the sport of rowing, the importance of physical activity and a healthy lifestyle, and what it means to be a teammate and to support one another. 

The San Diego Crew Classic watches young athletes and individuals mature into socially responsible adults who will further the lessons learned on the waters of Mission Bay, and introduces generation after generation to the sport of rowing.