Coronado Times

Opening reception - Viewpoints: Artistic Expressions from the Point Loma Artists Association
2025-11-09 14:00 - 16:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Spreckels Reading Room, 640 Orange Ave., Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
The Point Loma Artists Association is pleased to present Viewpoints, an exhibition featuring a vibrant collection of 2D and 3D works from 30 member artists who live and create on the Point Loma peninsula. From painting and photography, to sculpture, glass, and pottery, Viewpoints celebrates the diverse voices and creative energy of our community. The exhibit will be in the Spreckels Reading Room Gallery from November 2025 through January 2026.

About the Point Loma Artists Association
Celebrating 25 years of creative collaboration, the Point Loma Artists Association was founded in 1999 by a small group of local artists dedicated to connection, education, and artistic growth. Today, our members — working in mediums from mosaic to woodworking — continue to promote the arts through community events, exhibitions, and shared inspiration across San Diego.

Sharp Coronado Hospital presentation: How music helps us survive the holidays
2025-11-13 17:00 - 18:00 | Coronado Community Center, 1845 Strand Way, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
The holidays can be joyful but stressful — learn how music can help.
Sharp Coronado Hospital warmly invites you to “How Music Helps Us Survive The Holidays” on Thursday, Nov. 13, 5–6 pm at the Coronado Community Center. This all-ages event is designed to be inclusive, exploring the decisive role of music in reducing stress, lifting spirits, and strengthening family bonds. Enjoy interactive activities and expert advice that you can use every day this holiday season. Everyone’s welcome, and we encourage you to register at www.coronado.ca.us/civicrec, by phone at 619-522-7342, or in person at 1845 Strand Way. Your presence will make this event even more special.
Direct Link: https://bit.ly/MusicHealsHolidays

Wine & Lecture: Historic Districts 101
2025-11-13 17:30 - 19:00 | Coronado Historical Association, 1100 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
What makes a neighborhood historic—and why does it matter?
Join us for an engaging evening exploring the ins and outs of historic districts. From quaint main streets to architecturally significant neighborhoods, historic districts help communities preserve character, foster civic pride, and encourage thoughtful stewardship through tools like the Mills Act and the California Historical Building Code.
This lecture will also highlight Coronado’s own historic preservation program, including how to create historic districts, how property owners can benefit from designation, and what recent updates to the municipal code mean for Coronado’s future. Attendees will leave with a clear understanding of the steps involved in creating a historic district in their own neighborhood.
Whether you’re a homeowner, longtime resident, preservation enthusiast, or simply curious about how communities protect their past, this talk will offer practical insights and local perspective.
Join us on Thursday, November 13, at 5:30 pm for a wine & cheese reception followed by the lecture from 6 to 7 pm.
Tickets are available now
Member ($15.00 each)
Non-Member ($20.00 each)
Important Registration Information: Capacity is limited and reservations are required. No walk-ins will be admitted.
If you have any questions, please email info@coronadohistory.org or call (619) 435-7242.

Holiday Shopping Fair ~ Sponsored by Coronado Hospital Auxiliary
2025-11-14 09:00 - 14:00 | Sharp Coronado Hospital Auditorium Sandermann Education Center, 265 Soledad Place, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Get started on (or continue) your holiday shopping while you support the Sharp Coronado Hospital Auxiliary.

Coffee & Mingle with Coronado Police Department Senior Volunteer Patrol
2025-11-14 11:00 - 11:45 | John D. Spreckels Center, 1019 Seventh Street, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Start your day with good company and conversation at the John D. Spreckels Center. Enjoy a warm beverage, light refreshments, and friendly discussion with members of the Coronado Police Department Senior Volunteer Patrol.
This casual gathering welcomes the community to connect, share stories, and strengthen relationships in a relaxed, social setting.
Intended for adults age 18+
To register or learn more, visit www.coronado.ca.ushttps://www.coronado.ca.us/civicrec/civicrec, call 619-522-7343, or stop by the Spreckels Center in person.

Alchemy Concert
2025-11-14 13:00 - 14:00 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Ephraim Reitman started playing guitar at twelve years old and developed an affinity for Latin based music. He began playing with the local musicians in his Philadelphia neighborhood. At 15 he started studying percussion with Butch Ballard, a drummer for Count Basie and Duke Ellington, which in turn help his guitar playing. In 1976 he joined The Wire and Wood Band as a percussionist and vocalist. He is currently the percussionist for Elegencia Doub’le, a piano duo.
Don Boyd was born Pomona, CA (many, many decades ago). He attended Mount San Antonio College, Cal State Los Angeles. He studied Jazz and played in various Jazz groups and multiple Top-40 bands from 1977 through present day. Married Rita Boyd on June 25 1994 and moved to Oceanside in September 1994. He has three amazing children; Wyatt Boyd, Savannah Boyd and Gabriel Boyd (ages 24 – 28).
Ephraim and Donn met in the fall of 2022 and formed Alchemy shortly after, finding common musical ground in their love for blues, jazz, folk and Latin compositions.

FOCUS Holiday Boutique
2025-11-15 09:00 - 14:00 | Coronado Cays Yacht Club, 30 Caribe Cay Boulevard, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Kick off the holiday season at the FOCUS Holiday Boutique – support children in need
Celebrate the spirit of giving and get a head start on your holiday shopping at the Holiday Boutique benefiting FOCUS (Friends of Children United Society). Join us on Sunday, November 15, 2025, from 9 am to 2 pm at the Coronado Cays Yacht Club, located at 30 N. Caribe Cay Boulevard, for a day filled with fabulous finds, festive cheer, and community support.
This special event features more than 50 local vendors, offering a vast selection of clothing, handbags, accessories, jewelry, books, gourmet food, holiday decor, designer chocolates, candles, paper goods, hostess items, and much more — perfect for stocking up on gifts or treating yourself. Entrance is just $10, and all proceeds benefit at-risk children in San Diego County.
Enjoy a complimentary champagne cocktail, along with coffee, pastries, and snacks available at no charge. A full bar will be open all day for your enjoyment. Stay for lunch and savor a delicious taco bar lunch for just $4.
It’s the perfect way to kick off your holiday season while making a meaningful difference. Your support helps provide aid and comfort to vulnerable children throughout San Diego County.
Photo courtesy of FOCUS
For more information about FOCUS, please visit www.focus-sdkids.org.
Join us for a day of shopping, socializing, and giving! Your generosity helps create brighter futures for children in need.

Doggie Yoga at PAWS of Coronado
2025-11-16 11:00 | PAWS of Coronado, 1395 First Street, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
A gathering of movement, laughter, and love, led by Stephanie Clegg.
A heart-lifting class where gentle yoga meets joyful connection. As you breathe and flow, playful pups wander among the group, reminding us of the simple medicine of presence and joy. Together, we’ll stretch the body, calm the mind, and open the heart to the healing energy animals so naturally share.
All ages (kids must be with an adult). Please bring a yoga mat, an open heart, and a spirit ready to smile.
This class takes place at PAWS of Coronado on First Street.
REGISTER HERE

Everyone A Reader volunteer training
2025-11-17 09:00 - 10:00 | Coronado Unified School District, 201 Sixth Street, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Coronado Unified School District is excited to bring back the Everyone A Reader (EAR) program, a countywide initiative that began in 1995. EAR volunteers are specially trained to provide one-to-one reading support to students in grades 1-3 who need extra reading support.
Both Village and Silver Strand Elementary Schools have had EAR programs in the past, but the program has been paused since the pandemic.
“We are excited to bring this program back to our schools,” said Senior Director of Learning Dr. Megan Battle. “It’s a proven and effective way to help students build reading skills and confidence, and it also supports teachers by giving students the extra attention they need.”
The benefits of EAR reach both students and volunteers. Students gain valuable skills and build confidence, which can lead to success in later grades. For volunteers, it’s a meaningful opportunity to make a tangible difference in a child’s life while also building connections in the community.
To participate, volunteers must complete a training session before working with students. CUSD is hosting a one hour workshop on Monday, Nov. 17, 9-10 am in the District Office, 201 Sixth Street. Volunteers must also have a CUSD volunteer clearance including Livescan Fingerprint. The district will reimburse up to $50 for the cost of fingerprinting, which can be used for all volunteering in the district for a lifetime.
“We welcome all community members, even without students in school, to participate in this rewarding program. Some of our best volunteers are grandparents!” said Dr. Battle.
Volunteers will coordinate directly with teachers to set schedules that work best for them.
If you are passionate about reading and want to make a positive impact, this is a wonderful way to get involved.

Van trip to the Visions Museum of Textile Art
2025-11-19 10:00 - 14:00 | John D. Spreckels Center, 1019 Seventh Street, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
All aboard for a day trip from the John D. Spreckels Center to the Visions Museum of Textile Art at Liberty Station, where you’ll explore stunning contemporary quilts and textile masterpieces in a vibrant, inspiring space.
The visit includes a docent-led tour followed by free time to enjoy lunch on your own — bring your own or choose from nearby dining options.
The event will take place on Wednesday, Nov. 19 from 10 am to 2 pm. We’ll depart from the John D. Spreckels Center at 1019 Seventh Street.
Cost varies based on senior discount and residency. Transportation is provided as part of your registration.
To register or learn more, visit www.coronado.ca.us/civicrec, call 619-522-7343, or stop by the Spreckels Center in person.

Coping with grief during the holidays, in-person virtual presentation
2025-11-20 14:00 - 15:00 | John D. Spreckels Center, 1019 Seventh Street, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
The John D. Spreckels Center is partnering with Sharp Coronado Hospital to offer a free, live virtual presentation: Coping with Grief During the Holidays.
Grief can feel especially heavy during the holiday season. This compassionate discussion, led by experienced medical professionals from Sharp Coronado Hospital, will explore healthy ways to understand, navigate, and cope with loss during this time of year.
This program is part of Sharp Coronado Hospital’s ongoing series of quality health presentations, created in response to community feedback.
To register or learn more, visit www.coronado.ca.us/civicrec, call 619-522-7343, or stop by the Spreckels Center in person.

November Spice It Up, Coronado!
2025-11-21 14:30 - 15:30 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Like a book club, but for cooking! Explore new spices each month, pick up samples, cook at home, and discuss your creations in our monthly Zoom discussion.
For the month of November we will be sampling medieval European spice blend Poudre Douce.
See photographs and recipes from past Spice It Up, Coronado! HERE, then click on Open Access.

Holiday book and gift sale
2025-11-22 10:00 - 15:00 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
FALL FUNDRAISER 🍂
Holiday Books & Gift Sale
Find pre-loved books for children and adults, plus coffee table books, DVDs, holiday cards, Christmas books, and unique gift items — perfect for thoughtful, sustainable holiday shopping. All proceeds support Library programs — visit CoronadoFOL.org to learn more about how we help our beloved Coronado Public Library.
Family and Member Corner! Enjoy face painting and fun activities for young readers while you browse. The Friends of the Coronado Public Library are also hosting a special book signing with Eric Wolfinger in celebration of his latest work, The Blue Food Cookbook (book signing 12-1 pm).
Credit and debit cards preferred. Please bring your own bags.
Event will be canceled in the event of rain.

"Rooted in Fire: A Celebration of Native American and Mexican Cooking" with Pyet Despain
2025-11-22 15:00 - 16:00 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Join us for an inspiring afternoon with Pyet DeSpain, winner of Gordon Ramsay’s Next Level Chef and author of the debut cookbook Rooted in Fire: A Celebration of Native American and Mexican Cooking. Pyet will share how her heritage infuses every recipe with tradition, resilience, and deep respect for the earth, weaving together stories, flavors, and ancestral wisdom. DeSpain won’t be the only award winning chef in attendance at this event as she will be in conversation with Masterchef winner Claudia Sandoval!
This event is free and open to the public. Seating is first-come, first-served, subject to availability. Limited preferred seating is available with purchase of Rooted in Fire: A Celebration of Native American and Mexican Cooking through Adventure’s by the Book. Please visit adventuresbythebook.com/calendar-event/despain-pyet-11-22-25/ for more information.

Best of the Best Book Club: "There, There" by Tommy Orange
2025-11-26 11:00 - 12:00 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
The Coronado Public Library’s Best of the Best Book Club meets regularly on the fourth Wednesday of each month to discuss books that have won major awards.
For our October meeting, we will discuss the 2018 National Book Critics Circle Award winner There, There by Tommy Orange, a wondrous and shattering novel that follows twelve characters from Native communities: all traveling to the Big Oakland Powwow, all connected to one another in ways they may not yet realize.
Place this title on hold via our online catalog, or check out the e-book through the CloudLibrary app.
About There, There
Among them is Jacquie Red Feather, newly sober and trying to make it back to the family she left behind. Dene Oxendene, pulling his life together after his uncle’s death and working at the powwow to honor his memory. Fourteen-year-old Orvil, coming to perform traditional dance for the very first time. They converge and collide on one fateful day at the Big Oakland Powwow and together this chorus of voices tells of the plight of the urban Native American — grappling with a complex and painful history, with an inheritance of beauty and spirituality, with communion and sacrifice and heroism
A book with “so much jangling energy and brings so much news from a distinct corner of American life that it’s a revelation” (The New York Times). It is fierce, funny, suspenseful, and impossible to put down — full of poetry and rage, exploding onto the page with urgency and force. There There is at once poignant and unflinching, utterly contemporary and truly unforgettable.

Coronado Turkey Trot presented by Rady Children's Hospital Auxiliary
2025-11-27 08:00 | Tidelands Park, 2000 Mullinex Drive, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Join us for the 12th Annual Turkey Trot presented by the Coronado Unit of the Rady Children’s Hospital Auxiliary on Thanksgiving, Nov. 27, at Tidelands Park. This family-friendly 5K welcomes runners and walkers of all ages. Enjoy a beautiful course along the San Diego Bay and celebrate the holiday with a fun, festive atmosphere. For our 15 and under runners, your age-based pricing discount is already built in as soon as you enter your birth date.
All net proceeds benefit the Orthopedics and Scoliosis Center at Rady Children’s Hospital-San Diego. Register early as this event sells out every year!
6:30 a.m. – Packet Pick-Up Opens
7:35 a.m. – Pre-Race Warm Up with Coronado Fitness Club
8 a.m. – 5K Start
9:15 a.m. – Awards Ceremony (Overall Winners)
9:30 a.m. – Event Concludes
* Subject to change
Packet Pick-Up
Saturday November 22nd, 2025
Spreckels Park
601 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
RACE DAY, November 27, 2025
Tidelands Park
2000 Mullinex Dr, Coronado, CA 92118
6:30 a.m. – 8 a.m.
Walk-up Registration is available at Packet Pick-Up if the event is not sold out. Photo IDs are required. You may pick up for a friend if you have a copy of their photo ID. NO EXCEPTIONS! Photos of ID shown on cell phones are accepted. Please plan on attending one of the pre-race packet pick-ups; out-of-towners may pick up on race morning beginning at 6:30 a.m., but it is discouraged.

Shop Small - Small Business Saturday
2025-11-29 | CA
Small Business Saturday is a community and family event that gives residents and visitors extra incentives to go out and visit all of their favorite places.
Small Business Saturday in Coronado is a vital occasion that encourages support of the unique local shops and services that define our charming island community. On this special day, shoppers can explore the distinctive boutiques, art galleries, and eateries that offer everything from handcrafted gifts to delicious treats, showcasing the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of Coronado’s small business owners. Supporting these local establishments not only helps boost the economy but also fosters a strong sense of community, allowing residents to connect with their neighbors and celebrate the character of our town. By choosing to shop local on Small Business Saturday, we can ensure that Coronado remains vibrant and thriving, making it a truly special place to live and visit.
Coronado MainStreet is providing prizes of an Electra Bike donated by Hollands Bicycles, $100, and $50 in Coronado Cash, for five lucky shoppers. There will be entertainment at various spots during the day and some stores will offer surprises of their own.
Emerald Keepers will be offering sustainable gift wrapping using recyclable and compostable material. If you’re out shopping, be sure to stop by the gift-wrapping station at Rotary Plaza on Orange Avenue.
To be eligible for a prize, turn in your Shop Small passport at the Coronado MainStreet table in Rotary Park between 11 am and 3 pm on Nov. 29 for a chance to win.

Makers Monday: Yarn wrapped forest
2025-12-01 15:30 - 16:30 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Coronado Public Library presents: Yarn Wrapped Forest
Winter has arrived! San Diego may not have wintery forests, but you can make your own at the library. Use yarn and liquid starch to make a forest of whimsical wintery trees.

Library Decorating Day
2025-12-02 15:30 - 17:00 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
The Children’s Holiday Ornament and Library Decorating Day is an annual Coronado Library tradition. Each year, kids make two ornaments – one for the Children’s Area tree and one to take home. This year’s ornament is a melted snowman using materials made from our 3-D Printer in the Digital Media Lab!
Kids and families can enjoy refreshments while making their ornaments and other holiday crafts. This year we will be making festive paper chains to decorate the children’s area and cookies to wear in the holiday parade. Those who would like to walk with the Library in the Holiday Parade on Friday, December 5 are welcome to join us starting at 5:30 in the Winn Room that day.

Holiday Festival at the Hotel del Coronado
2025-12-03 15:00 - 21:00 | Hotel del Coronado, 1500 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Join The Del for its annual Holiday Festival. This community event includes performances by Coronado school children, Skydiving Santa followed by photos, Skating by the Sea®, and a dazzling fireworks show.
Schedule of Events
CORONADO SCHOOL PERFORMANCES
Vista Terrace | Times TBA
Join Coronado schools as they sing holiday favorites and spread holiday cheer.
SKATING BY THE SEA
Windsor Lawn | 4-10 pm
Take an ice skating adventure on San Diego’s only beachfront ice rink.
SKYDIVING SANTA
Del Beach | 4:30 pm
Surprise and delight your little ones as Santa skydives onto Del Beach to join them for the Holiday Festival.
Courtesy photo.
PHOTOS WITH SANTA
Location TBA | 5-8 pm
Capture the magic of the holiday season with a meeting and photo with Santa himself. Santa Passes will be distributed on-site for families to secure a time slot. No online reservations for this date.
Courtesy photo
“WONDER OF OZ” LIGHTSHOW SPECTACULAR
Founders Lawn | 5-9 pm
Experience the magic as The Del’s historic pine trees are draped in a spectacular light show with a whimsical Oz-inspired soundtrack and snow flurries. The show takes place every 30 minutes.
Nighttime Christmas fireworks show at Hotel del Coronado as seen from across Glorietta Bay. Courtesy photo
FIREWORKS SHOW
Del Beach | 6:45 pm
Look to the skies over Del Beach for a dazzling fireworks display to celebrate the season.
Holiday Festival event times and details are weather permitting and may be subject to change.

Holiday card workshop
2025-12-04 10:30 - 12:00 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Learn how to create beautiful designs on thin metal sheeting in this unique and creative craft. Then turn them into festive cards, just in time for the holidays! Card artist Sylvia Hwa will show you how in this hands-on workshop.

Timeless flute journey concert
2025-12-05 13:00 - 14:00 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Experience a journey of solo flute pieces spanning different cultures and times with musician Pam Vliek Martchev. She will be featuring the flute, alto flute, and piccolo, as well as composers like Marin-Marais, Bozza, Karg-Elert, and more.

Pam Vliek Martchev served as principal flute with the Boulder Philharmonic in Colorado for 10 seasons, and has been a guest principal flutist of the San Diego Symphony, Pacific Symphony, Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra, Santa Barbara Symphony, Reno Chamber Orchestra, California Chamber Orchestra, and Long Beach Opera.
She has been featured on many chamber music series such as La Jolla Summerfest, Art of Elan, Jacaranda, Chamber Music Unbound in Mammoth, Blanco Performing Arts in Texas, the Tannahill Arts Festival in Scotland, Le Salon de Musique, Bruman at UCLA, Dilijan, and LACMA Sundays Live. She is currently a member of the woodwind quintet Presidio Winds. You may have heard her on movie soundtracks, CD recordings, television specials, and in the San Diego pit for broadway shows such as King and I, Phantom of the Opera, Wicked, and My Fair Lady.
A native of Long Island, NY, she began attending the Manhattan School of Music pre-college program at age 12, and continued another four years for her Bachelor of Music – her primary teachers were Harold Jones and Linda Chesis. During her student years, she won prizes in many competitions, was a soloist with the Long Island and Massapequa Philharmonic, and was featured on WQXR’s Young Artist Showcase.
She has been a guest teacher at the Universidad Autónoma de Baja California (UABC); University of Oregon, Eugene; University of Nevada, Reno; and Manhattan School of Music. Her students have auditioned successfully for conservatory degrees across the country, top prizes in national competitions including the NFA High School Soloist, the National Youth Orchestra, and CA All-Southern and All-State ensembles. She is a Haynes Artist, and is the flute professor at San Diego State University, Pt. Loma Nazarene University, the University of San Diego, and San Diego Summer Music Institute (SDSMI)

Holiday parade and tree lighting
2025-12-05 18:00 | CA
Get ready for Coronado’s 50th Annual Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting happening Friday, December 5 at 6 pm from 8th & Orange to RH Dana & Adella. Celebrate the golden milestone with 50+ festive parade entries, our big tree wrapped in over two miles of lights, and a special visit from Santa himself.
After the lighting, stay for the Coronado Community Band’s holiday concert in Rotary Park, the perfect way to kick off the season.
This cherished tradition is proudly presented by the Coronado Chamber of Commerce, with generous sponsorship from the City of Coronado, EDCO, California American Water, and Discover Coronado.

Coronado Philharmonia Holidays in Coronado concert
2025-12-06 19:00 - 21:00 | Coronado Performing Arts Center, 650 D Avenue, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Celebrate the holiday season with the Coronado Philharmonia at their 5th annual Holidays in Coronado Concert, taking place on Saturday, December 6 at 7 pm at the Coronado Performing Arts Center. Featuring the incredible Christopher Hollyday Jazz Quartet, this will be an unforgettable evening of music and cheer.
GET TICKETS

CIFF Student Classic Film: "Scrooge"
2025-12-07 13:00 - 15:45 | Winn Room, Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
On Sunday afternoon, Dec. 7 at 1 pm, in the Library’s Winn Room, the Coronado Island Film Festival (CIFF) Student Classic Film Series presents a special Advent movie event for the entire family, screening Scrooge, the acclaimed 1951 British Renown Studios movie adaptation of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. The screening will be followed by the first public announcement of the 2026 Student Classic Film Series “The Art of Adaptation” schedule of classic films. This Scrooge screening is a FREE event and open to the public of all ages.
Attendees are asked to please bring an unwrapped toy to the screening as part of Downtown Lions Club toy giveaway to underserved children.
Charles Dickens’ Christmas novella is, arguably, the single most adapted literary story in stage and cinematic history. A great many film critics insist that Brian Desmond Hurst’s 1951 film version has never been equaled. The screenplay by Hurst and Noel Langley (a The Wizard of Oz screenwriter) Hurst’s adroit direction, and C. M. Pennington-Richards’ haunting black and white cinematography, completely convince audiences of Scrooge’s spiritual transformation from bitter, friendless curmudgeon, into a man so overcome by gratitude and joy, simply to be alive on Christmas morning, that he finds himself gleefully shouting, “Merry Christmas!” to all within earshot; a man whose renovation of heart is so profound that many who knew, feared, or loathed him, suspect he has gone mad.
The lion’s share of credit for the film’s enduring power belongs to the extraordinary performance of Alastair Sim. Sim “inhabits” the title role, playing the miserly scenes with perfect notes of sarcastic humbug. Sim’s Scrooge is a man utterly alone and satisfied to be so; a man who has no use for other people. Sim never suggests Scrooge is an evil man, but, rather, a man whose spirit has been gravely, though not irreparably, warped by the vagaries of a difficult life. It is the subtlety and restraint Sim brings to the role that make Scrooge’s redemption in the final act believable, moving, and memorable. The final scenes of Scrooge radiating humility, warmth and delight reuniting with his family at his nephew’s Christmas party, and finally, walking the streets of London as Tiny Tim leaps into his arms are images to carry in your heart throughout the Christmas season. The entire community is invited to join us for the perfect “table setter” for Advent. As Tiny Tim reminded us, “God bless us, everyone!”
The screening will be followed by the first public announcement of the 2026 “The Art of Adaptation” schedule, screening two Golden Age classics monthly from February through May 2026. The Student Classic Series is designed to expose High School and Middle School Students to the greatest motion pictures made by the masters of the craft during The Golden Age of Hollywood (mid-30s to early 1960s). It provides a unique opportunity for Coronado’s young people to learn about the history of Hollywood’s Studio Era and the cultural legacy it bequeathed to us all.

Cookies for the holidays baking demo
2025-12-08 11:00 - 12:00 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Need ideas for your holiday baking this year? Get inspired at this fun baking demo with Chef Tommy of Big City Chefs!
Space is limited, registration is recommended. Walk-ins will be accommodated as space permits.
About Chef Tommy:
Food has been my passion for as long as I can remember! I spent a lot of my childhood helping my mom in the kitchen experimenting with flavors and learning the magic of cooking. By age sixteen, I was working as a busser soaking in the energy of a busy restaurant.
Instead of following my culinary dreams, I took a detour and instead went to college to study accounting. I received a Bachelor of Science and cruised through a successful five-year sales career. Despite my successes, I always felt I was meant for something more and decided to pursue my true calling in the restaurant world.
I kicked things off as a server in Charleston, SC before moving to San Diego, where I worked my way up to General Manager at Knotty Barrel. Along the way, I enrolled at the Institute of Culinary Education and gained experience working at Michelin-starred Gramercy Tavern in NYC, Trust and as Sous Chef at Sandpiper Wood Fired Grill & Oysters. By December 2024, I was ready to break free from the traditional kitchen grind and launched my own personal chef and catering company.
Now, I’m thrilled to be working with Big City Chefs offering catering, cooking classes and more! Whether you’re looking for an unforgettable meal or a hands-on cooking experience, I’m here to take you on a culinary adventure!

Coronado School of the Arts first annual Showcase Night
2025-12-09 18:00 | Coronado Performing Arts Center, 650 D Avenue, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
CoSA Dance Conservatory. Photo by Kel Casey, courtesy of CUSD.
Enjoy an evening of free performances, films, animations, behind the scenes documentaries of the Coronado School of the Arts (CoSA) visual art studio, and technical theatre productions on Tuesday, Dec. 9 at 6 pm in the Coronado Performing Arts Center at 650 D Avenue.

Art lovers of all ages across San Diego are encouraged to attend this fun, family friendly, and free event. Information about 2026-2027 applications for prospective CoSA students will be available in the lobby as well as information for potential Board Members, Community Supporters and Patrons of the Arts.
Conservatory of Classical and Contemporary Dance senior, Eleanor McClelland shares that she “found a group of friends and immediately felt connected to the school.” Visual Arts junior, Wendy Alcaraz, who will be sharing one of her original fashion designs at the Showcase recalls, “All the artists learn from one another and in my first year, half of my time was invested in watching others create and learning from their strengths.” Guests will have an opportunity to meet student artists, CoSA Foundation Board Members and faculty of the Coronado School of the Arts.
See why CoSA is a Life Changer.
CoSA Visual Arts Conservatory.. Photo courtesy of CUSD.
About CoSA
Coronado School of the Arts (CoSA) is San Diego County’s premier public school arts conservatory, home to 200 scholar artists grades 9 through 12, who attend the nationally ranked Coronado High School. CoSA provides an intense, pre-professional arts education to students from Coronado and from all over San Diego, who are admitted after a competitive application/audition process.
Each school day, CoSA offers approximately three hours of instruction, pairing young artists with educators who are also industry specialists. With a curriculum designed by professional artist/educators, students are immersed in their chosen specialty in one of six conservatories: Classical and Contemporary Dance, Digital Arts (Animation, Filmmaking and Graphic Design), Instrumental Music, Musical Theatre & Drama, Theatre Production, Design & Management and Visual Art. CoSA is a State of California-approved Career Technical Education program.

Crafty Hour: Upcycled paper wreaths
2025-12-09 18:30 - 19:30 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Feeling crafty? Join us on the second Tuesday of every month for arts and crafts.
In the month of December, we’ll celebrate the holidays by creating a beautiful floral wreath out of recycled paper towel rolls.
Can’t make it to this program? Check back here the day after this program is scheduled to download the instructions so you can recreate this craft at home.

Armchair Travel: Bill Altaffer, “The World’s Most Traveled Person”
2025-12-10 18:00 | John D. Spreckels Center, 1019 Seventh Street, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
This month’s Armchair Travel presentation on Wednesday, Dec. 10, features renowned world explorer Bill Altaffer, internationally known as “The World’s Most Traveled Person.” Bill will share insights and stories from his third journey to Albania since the country’s transition to democracy.
Albania has become an increasingly popular destination, appreciated for its welcoming atmosphere, dramatic landscapes, and rich, complex history. Travelers can explore striking castles, traditional towns, and significant archaeological sites, along with a coastline that is drawing attention as an emerging Mediterranean getaway.
Bill will also introduce us to Kosovo, Albania’s neighboring independent state, celebrated for its mountain scenery, natural beauty, and vibrant cultural life.
This monthly Armchair Travel program offers an engaging evening of exploration and storytelling — perfect for anyone interested in discovering new cultures and destinations. Light bites provided. Doors open at 6 pm and the presentation begins at 6:30.
The presentation takes place at the John D. Spreckels Center, located at 1019 Seventh Street. To register or learn more, visit www.coronado.ca.us/civicrec, call 619-522-7343, or stop by the Spreckels Center in person.

Coronado School of the Arts Visual Arts Conservatory "All at Once" exhibition and fashion show
2025-12-11 17:30 - 19:00 | Black Box Theater 650 D Avenue, Coronado, 92118
COSA Visual Arts. Courtesy CUSD
Come experience “All at Once,” an exhibition of original artworks, live model figure drawings and a student designed fashion show. The opening reception for the exhibit is free and open to the public on Thursday, Dec. 11 starting at 5:30 pm and closing at 7 pm in the Black Box Gallery on the Coronado High School campus, 650 D Avenue.
You won’t want to miss the fashion show which hits the runway at 6 pm.
Aspiring fashion designer and visual art student, Wendy Alcaraz collaborated with her fellow artists to design a clothing line based on artworks produced in the studio. The artworks will be projected as the artists themselves model the clothing inspired by their artworks. This year there will be digital illustrations on display. Junior Isabella Vilcans will display some prized hand-blown glass. Some of the most stunning figure drawings we have had in years will be featured in the show. The evening will also include an extensive exhibit of paintings and drawings from studio workshops as well as original bodies of artwork and a Senior Showcase highlighting choice pieces from the graduating class of 2026’s four years of study.
Come and delight in the array of creativity … All at Once!
About CoSA
Coronado School of the Arts (CoSA) is San Diego County’s premier public school arts conservatory, home to 200 scholar artists grades 9 through 12, who attend the nationally ranked Coronado High School. CoSA provides an intense, pre-professional arts education to students from Coronado and from all over San Diego, who are admitted after a competitive application/audition process.
Each school day CoSA offers three or more hours of instruction, pairing young artists with educators who are also industry specialists. With a curriculum designed by professional artist/educators, students are immersed in their chosen specialty in one of six conservatories: Classical and Contemporary Dance, Digital Arts (Animation, Filmmaking and Graphic Design), Instrumental Music, Musical Theatre & Drama, Theatre Production, Design & Management and Visual Art. CoSA is a State of California-approved Career Technical Education program.
