One of Chula Vista’s signature waterfront festivals is making a comeback this summer, returning to a bayfront that looks considerably different than when it last hosted the event in 2019.
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HarborFest is set for Saturday, Aug. 22, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. along the South Bay marina, offering a free, day-long celebration of maritime culture, live entertainment and family-friendly activities.
“We’re excited to … celebrate everything that makes our city special, from our vibrant community to our beautiful waterfront,” Mayor John McCann said in a statement. “HarborFest brings people together to celebrate local pride, support our businesses and culture, and enjoy a fun, family friendly experience with something for everyone.”
The festival will feature live entertainment at the Flagship Stage and Waterfront Tap Garden, cultural performances at the Dockside Beats Latin Stage, an artisan marketplace, lucha libre matches, local food vendors, a classic car show and a dedicated kids area. Attendees can also kayak, paddleboard and fish for free, with seal tours available for a small fee.
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The event’s return comes as the Chula Vista bayfront undergoes a significant transformation. Since 2025, the city has opened the Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center, launched a daily ferry service to downtown San Diego, broken ground on a $15 million expansion of Harbor Park and advanced plans for the Amara Bay luxury housing development.
General admission is free, with shuttle service from nearby free parking and trolley access available. A premium “Tides & Tastes Pass” — which includes shaded lounge seating, preferred stage viewing, a chef-curated taco plate and two hosted beverages — is available for $49 through July 15, $59 through Aug. 21, and $69 on the day of the event.
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More information is available at cvharborfest.com.
