Community, Compassion and a Celebration of Recovery

Strong communities begin with opportunities for people to feel supported and included. Adjoin, which has served communities since 1983, helps individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and veterans build more independent, connected lives. Its services range from supported living and vocational programs to assistance helping veterans and their families secure permanent housing in San Diego and Imperial counties.

That spirit of compassionate community support also finds expression in A New PATH—Parents for Addiction Treatment and Healing—which works to reduce the stigma surrounding addiction through education, advocacy and support. On Saturday, September 26, 2026, the organization will present its 22nd annual Strut for Sobriety! at the Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina, bringing people together during National Recovery Month to celebrate recovery and hope. 

Scheduled from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., the event will feature boutique shopping, a luncheon, an awards ceremony and a theatrical fashion show presented by Gretchen Productions. Co-chaired by Liz Crocker and Judy Lawton, with Geni Cavitt and Rory Devine serving as co-emcees, the celebration will include singers, dancers, professional models and guest models in recovery. Their participation puts a personal face on recovery and the possibilities it holds. 

Proceeds will support A New PATH’s work to reduce stigma and expand access to treatment, harm reduction and overdose prevention resources. The luncheon offers guests an opportunity to enjoy an afternoon of fashion and fellowship while supporting individuals and families affected by substance use disorders. 

Event information: Contact April Ella at 619-670-1184 or april@anewpath.org. For tickets, sponsorships and program advertisements, visit A New PATH’s Strut for Sobriety! page.

The 17th Annual San Diego Spirits Festival returns to the beautiful Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego in La Jolla on Saturday, September 26, and Sunday, September 27, 2026, inviting guests to experience one of Southern California's premier celebrations of fine spirits, craft cocktails, gourmet cuisine, and coastal sophistication. Set against breathtaking ocean views, the two-day, 21-and-over event brings together acclaimed distillers, mixologists, chefs, and entertainers for a memorable weekend that showcases the very best of cocktail culture. Festival hours are 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Saturday and 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Sunday.

Attendees will have the opportunity to sample an impressive selection of premium spirits from around the world, enjoy handcrafted cocktails prepared by expert mixologists, and savor culinary creations from local chefs and restaurants. Live music, celebrity appearances, educational tastings, and interactive experiences add to the festive atmosphere, while the museum's contemporary galleries and stunning La Jolla coastline provide an unforgettable backdrop for the event. Whether you're a seasoned spirits enthusiast or simply looking for an exceptional weekend outing, the festival offers something for every palate.

Beyond the tastings and entertainment, the San Diego Spirits Festival has earned a reputation for supporting and promoting the craft spirits industry by providing a platform for emerging and established distillers, bartenders, and beverage innovators to introduce new products, educate consumers, and celebrate excellence in mixology. The festival also hosts its respected International Spirits Competition, helping recognize outstanding brands from around the globe while contributing to the continued growth and appreciation of the industry. Unlike many tasting festivals, the event is not organized as a fundraiser for a specific charitable nonprofit but is dedicated to advancing the spirits and hospitality community through education, innovation, and industry recognition.

With its unique blend of luxury, culture, world-class spirits, exceptional cuisine, and spectacular coastal scenery, the San Diego Spirits Festival continues to be one of the region's signature lifestyle events. Whether attending for the cocktails, the culinary delights, or simply the vibrant atmosphere, guests can expect an unforgettable celebration that captures the spirit and sophistication of San Diego.

The 12th annual Taste of Rancho Santa Fe returns on Sunday, September 27, 2026, for an afternoon of food, wine and community on the lawns of The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe. From 4 to 7 p.m., guests can sample offerings from more than 70 local food and beverage partners, with an after-party beginning at 7 p.m. An opportunity drawing will feature getaways, culinary experiences and other prizes

Hosted by the Rotary Club of Rancho Santa Fe, the event is also the club’s primary annual fundraiser. Net proceeds support charitable programs serving veterans, children, seniors and families facing hardship. Tickets are available through the  making the gathering a chance to enjoy the region’s culinary talent while helping neighbors across the community. 

For four decades, one of San Diego's most anticipated charitable evenings has brought together animal lovers, philanthropists, business leaders and community advocates for a single purpose — giving vulnerable animals a second chance. On Saturday, October 3, 2026, the San Diego Humane Society will celebrate the 40th Annual Fur Ball, its Ruby Anniversary, with an elegant evening dedicated to transforming the lives of thousands of animals throughout our region.

Held at the San Diego Humane Society's headquarters in Point Loma, the black-tie-optional gala has become one of Southern California's signature fundraising events. Guests will enjoy an unforgettable cocktail reception, silent and live auctions, live entertainment, dancing, and an exceptional vegetarian dinner prepared by renowned Chef Jeffrey Strauss of Pamplemousse Grille. Well-mannered, leashed dogs are welcome to accompany their owners, adding a unique charm that has made Fur Ball unlike any other gala in San Diego.

Beyond the glamour lies a powerful mission. Every dollar raised helps support San Diego Humane Society's lifesaving programs, which care for tens of thousands of animals each year through sheltering, veterinary medicine, wildlife rehabilitation, adoptions, humane law enforcement, community outreach, and programs that keep pets and families together during difficult times. Serving San Diego County since 1880, the organization has evolved into one of the nation's leading animal welfare agencies, providing hope and healing for animals of every kind.

The 40th Anniversary marks an important milestone, celebrating four decades of generosity from donors, volunteers, sponsors and supporters whose compassion has helped write countless stories of rescue, recovery and new beginnings. From abandoned puppies and neglected horses to injured wildlife and cherished family pets in crisis, Fur Ball represents an investment in a community where every animal is treated with dignity and care.

Whether attending to support the mission, bid on exclusive auction experiences, or simply enjoy one of San Diego's most memorable charitable evenings, guests become part of a legacy that extends far beyond a single night. Fur Ball is a celebration of kindness, generosity and the extraordinary bond between people and animals—a reminder that together, a compassionate community can truly change lives.

Discover Magazines is pleased to recognize the San Diego Humane Society and its dedicated supporters as they commemorate this remarkable Ruby Anniversary. The 40th Annual Fur Ball promises to be an evening of elegance, inspiration and heartfelt purpose, all in support of creating a brighter future for the animals who depend on us most.

The Autism Society of San Diego will commemorate six decades of service to the community with its Diamond Anniversary gala on October 3, 2026, from 6:00 pm to 10 pm at the Town and Country Resort, 500 Hotel Circle North in Mission Valley. This elegant evening will celebrate 60 years of empowering autistic individuals and their families while honoring the dedicated volunteers, community partners, and supporters whose commitment has helped shape the organization's remarkable legacy.

Guests will enjoy an inspiring evening featuring a cocktail reception, dinner, entertainment, special guest recognitions, a silent auction, and tributes celebrating the organization's past, present, and future. The gala's theme. "Shine Bright Like a Diamond" reflects the Autism Society San Diego's enduring commitment to building a more inclusive community where autistic individuals can thrive and reach their fullest potential.

Beyond being a memorable celebration, the Diamond Anniversary Gala serves as one of the organization's most important annual fundraisers. Proceeds from the evening directly support Autism Society San Diego's wide range of programs and services, including family support, educational workshops, social and recreational activities, advocacy initiatives, camps, community outreach, and resources that help autistic individuals of all ages live more independent, connected, and fulfilling lives.

For 60 years, Autism Society San Diego has been a trusted source of guidance, acceptance, and hope for thousands of local families. By attending or supporting the Diamond Anniversary Gala, community members are investing in a future where every autistic individual is valued, included, and empowered. The celebration not only honors an extraordinary legacy of service but also helps ensure that these essential programs and resources remain available for generations to come.

A Gathering for San Diego’s Smallest Miracles

Miracle Babies’ “Breakfast in Sicily” luncheon brings supporters together October 7 at the Fairmont Grand Del Mar.

For parents whose newborn needs intensive care, life can quickly revolve around hospital visits, uncertain days and the overwhelming desire to be close to their baby. San Diego nonprofit Miracle Babies helps families navigate that experience with practical assistance, emotional support and a community that understands.

On October 7, the organization will bring that mission into focus with “Breakfast in Sicily,” a luncheon at the Fairmont Grand Del Mar. The gathering offers an opportunity to connect with the cause and support the families at the heart of its work.

Founded in San Diego in 2009, Miracle Babies serves families with hospitalized newborns across San Diego, Orange and Los Angeles counties. Its work addresses a challenge that can be easy to overlook: while a baby receives specialized hospital care, parents also need help managing the demands of daily life and staying connected to their child. 

The organization’s Special Delivery shuttle vans provide free round-trip transportation for parents and primary caregivers visiting babies in neonatal intensive care units, or NICUs. Those rides help remove a practical barrier to spending time at a newborn’s bedside.

Miracle Babies also offers free individual counseling and support groups in English and Spanish for parents and caregivers during and after a NICU stay. Care packages provide supplies, comfort items and resources, while in-hospital gatherings called Miracle Hours give families a chance to share a meal, connect with other parents and find support close to their babies. Together, these services address both the practical pressures and the isolation families can experience. 

That everyday work gives “Breakfast in Sicily” its deeper purpose. The luncheon is an invitation to turn community generosity into support for parents facing an unfamiliar and often frightening chapter of family life. Behind the occasion is a simple, deeply personal aim: helping families spend more time together when being together matters so much.

The San Diego International Film Festival returns October 13–18, 2026, for its 25th anniversary. Across six days, audiences can explore studio premieres, independent features, documentaries and short films, with filmmaker conversations and panels adding another dimension to the screenings. 

The celebration begins Tuesday with the Night of the Stars Tribute in La Jolla. Wednesday brings an opening-night film and party at THE LOT, before screenings move into a packed Thursday-through-Sunday program at Westfield UTC. The festival’s mix of local stories and international cinema offers plenty of chances to discover a film that might otherwise pass you by. 

The final weekend extends beyond the theater. A Saturday-night anniversary celebration at Belly Up Tavern honors award-winning filmmakers, while Sunday’s Culinary Cinema pairs a food-inspired screening with tastings from San Diego chefs. Whether you come for a single film or spend the week moving between screenings and events, the festival promises a lively meeting place for filmmakers and film lovers. 

Where the Art & Science of Cinema Converge.

Don’t just watch movies. Experience the festival.

Over the bridge and a world away, the Coronado Island Film Festival brings together filmmakers from around the globe, industry leaders, emerging artists, and passionate audiences for five extraordinary days on Coronado Island, San Diego's "Crown" City. 

Whether attending as a film lover, filmmaker, screenwriter, industry professional, or creative looking for the next collaborator, CIFF offers an experience designed around discovery, connection, and the art and business of cinema. The Leonard Maltin Industry Tribute Gala opens the celebration Wednesday evening, (Nov. 4) in the Crown Room at the iconic Hotel del Coronado, honoring extraordinary cinematic achievement and cultural impact.

Thursday Nov. 5th opens the ShortsFest, the festival’s award-winning short film exhibition, operating as a festival within the festival, spotlighting the short-form storytelling and runs thru Sunday, Nov. 8th. Industry panels led by the most respected names in entertainment journalism — Variety, Deadline, MovieMaker, and Gold Derby — set the pace for awards season, offering audiences a front-row seat to the conversations shaping the year in film. CIFF’s independent film slate gives the stage to emerging voices and visionaries.

Throughout the week, studio premieres, compelling stories of discovery, independent features, special engagements including women in film, historic Hollywood retrospectives, receptions, networking events built for real connection, create an environment where relationships form, ideas take shape, and inspiration take hold.

As a mission-driven nonprofit, CIFF supports filmmakers and screenwriters, strengthens the cinema arts, and creates opportunities for the next generation of creative storytellers.