The Best November Events Near Carlsbad & San Diego

There’s something truly magical about November along the Southern California coast. The summer crowds have eased, the ocean breeze feels just a little crisper, and the community comes alive with local markets, art fairs, and early holiday festivities. For travelers staying in Carlsbad Village, it’s one of the best times of year to experience a slower, cozier side of coastal living where beach walks meet handmade gifts and local charm fills every weekend.

Whether you’re visiting with family, a partner, or friends, here’s your guide to the best November events near Carlsbad and San Diego that will make your fall getaway unforgettable.

Carlsbad Village Street Faire – Sunday, November 2, 2025

If you’ve never experienced the Carlsbad Village Street Faire, you’re in for a treat. On Sunday, November 2, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., the heart of downtown Carlsbad transforms into one of the largest one-day street fairs in the nation. More than 750 vendors line the streets, filling the air with the scent of roasted almonds, sizzling kettle corn, and live music drifting through the coastal breeze.

Visitors will find everything from handmade jewelry and artisan crafts to home décor, clothing, plants, and local eats truly something for everyone. It’s a family-friendly event, with a designated Kids Zone, international food court, and live entertainment that gives the village a contagious energy.

For guests staying in Carlsbad Village, there’s no need to worry about parking or traffic the fair is right outside your door. You can wake up slowly, enjoy a morning coffee on the patio, and stroll right into the heart of the event. After browsing the booths and grabbing lunch from one of the food trucks, wander back to the beach for a sunset walk. That’s the magic of November here no rush, no stress, just authentic coastal living.

San Diego Made Holiday Market – November 15 & 16, 2025

Just a 40-minute scenic drive south brings you to Liberty Station in Point Loma, where the San Diego Made Holiday Market returns on Saturday, November 15 (10 a.m. – 5 p.m.) and Sunday, November 16 (10 a.m. – 4 p.m.). This highly anticipated annual event is perfect for travelers who love discovering local artisans, sustainable goods, and unique holiday gifts you can’t find anywhere else.

The festival features over 125 local makers selling everything from handmade candles and ceramics to jewelry, clothing, and seasonal décor. Between booths, you can enjoy live music, craft cocktails, and bites from gourmet food trucks all set against Liberty Station’s historic Spanish-style architecture.

It’s more than just a market it’s a community celebration of creativity and small business. Many visitors plan their day around it: brunch at one of the Liberty Public Market cafés, an afternoon of shopping, and a relaxing evening drive back up the coast. It’s the kind of day that makes you fall in love with San Diego all over again and it pairs perfectly with a weekend stay in Carlsbad, where the nights are quieter and the ocean is just steps away.

Hillcrest Farmers Market – Every Sunday, Year-Round

For those looking for a more low-key local experience, the Hillcrest Farmers Market offers a taste of San Diego’s community spirit every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Located on University Avenue between Herbert Street and Park Boulevard, this vibrant market is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

You’ll find fresh produce, locally roasted coffee, flowers, artisanal baked goods, and international street foods that make wandering the stalls a delicious adventure. It’s also a great spot for picking up picnic supplies to bring back to Carlsbad imagine lounging on the sand with a basket of local fruit, fresh bread, and pastries from the market.

The energy here feels authentic and welcoming, offering a different kind of joy than the big festivals more intimate, more neighborly, and just as memorable. If your guests enjoy discovering the real heartbeat of Southern California, this is one to add to the itinerary.

Why November Is the Perfect Time to Visit

November in Carlsbad and San Diego offers that rare balance between serenity and celebration. The weather stays comfortably warm ideal for beach days and evening walks but the city begins to take on a festive sparkle as holiday lights appear and markets open.

It’s a month that feels both relaxed and full of life. You can spend the morning browsing handmade art, the afternoon enjoying fresh seafood at the harbor, and the evening watching a glowing sunset from the sand all without the summer crowds.

For families, it’s a chance to travel before the holiday rush; for couples, it’s an opportunity for a peaceful escape by the sea. And for everyone, it’s a reminder that California’s coast shines brightest in the quieter months.

Plan Your November Stay in Carlsbad Village

If you’re planning a trip to Southern California this fall, November is one of the best times to visit and Carlsbad Village makes the perfect home base. You’ll be within walking distance of the Carlsbad Village Street Faire, minutes from coastal dining and shopping, and an easy drive from the San Diego Made Holiday Market and other city attractions.

Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, our beachside rental puts you steps away from everything that makes Carlsbad special. So pack your sweater for those cool coastal evenings, bring your appetite for adventure, and come experience a season filled with charm, color, and community.

Book your November stay today and discover why fall by the beach just might be your new favorite tradition.