Coronado Times

Holiday Festival at the Hotel del Coronado
2025-12-03 15:00 - 21:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | 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.

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.

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.

Threads of Resilience: Celebrating human resilience through dance
2025-12-12 19:00, 2025-12-13 19:00 | Coronado Performing Arts Center, 650 D Avenue, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Photo courtesy CUSD
The Coronado School of the Arts (CoSA) Conservatory of Classical and Contemporary Dance invites audiences to Threads of Resilience, a powerful showcase of original dance works that explore personal transformation and strength. The concert takes the stage Dec. 12 and 13 at 7pm at the Coronado Performing Arts Center at 650 D Avenue. Tickets are available at www.cosafoundation.org/events.
“Adversity and resilience are innate to the human experience,” said Caryn Ipapo-Glass, COSA Dance Director. “In times of divisiveness and polarity it can be difficult to hold on to empathy, or to remember that we collectively have lived experiences that unify us. Our journeys may be vastly different, but joy, fear, love, and loss are universal; and the opportunity for personal growth is always present. Cathartic connection is one of the most powerful aspects of dance, and one of the things I love most about it. When artists are brave enough to share, and audiences are brave enough to be present and to feel, that is when powerful human connections are made.”
This remarkable concert features 10 original dance works, choreographed by both faculty and student artists, and will also include six innovative short dance films that push the boundaries of artistic expression; featuring “Resilience Poems” written by several of the COSA Dance students.
Each dance piece represents a deeply personal narrative, capturing moments of profound life experiences where individuals have confronted adversity and emerged transformed. The choreographers explore themes of resilience, personal growth, and the human spirit’s remarkable capacity to overcome challenges.

“This concert marks my first artistic endeavor with my COSA Dance students and colleagues. Transition in and of itself can be adverse. With it comes a great deal of uncertainty, vulnerability, and required trust. It has been an absolute honor to work within this collective of students and colleagues and I am tremendously grateful for the opportunity we were given to come together to thread and weave our lived experiences, and to witness the impact of our collective resilience,” said Ipapo-Glass.
For more information about this compelling evening of dance, visit CoSASanDiego.com.
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.

San Diego Bay Parade of Lights (1 of 2)
2025-12-14 17:30 - 19:45 | San Diego Bay, 200 Marina Park Way, San Diego, CA, 92101, United States
The 55th Annual San Diego Bay Parade of Lights will illuminate the bayfront on Dec. 14 and 21, 2025.
Photo: San Diego Bay Parade of Lights
The San Diego Bay Parade of Lights is a time-honored holiday tradition brought to San Diego by the boating community. Continuing its long-standing San Diego tradition, the 55th annual San Diego Bay Parade of Lights promises to dazzle and entertain bayfront crowds during two December evenings: Dec. 14 & 21. Participants in this year’s holiday boat parade will decorate their boats to fit this year’s theme: An Out of This World Christmas 👽🛸
The San Diego Bay Parade of Lights brings more than 100,000 San Diego residents and visitors to the shores of San Diego Bay each year. The procession of approximately 80 lavishly decorated boats will dazzle and delight. There is no cost to view the parade.
This year, for the seventh time, the parade will proceed to the pier at Cesar Chavez Park before making the turn to Coronado, giving spectators another area to view the parade.
The procession will start at 5:30 p.m. and will follow the predetermined parade route.
The APPROXIMATE arrival times of the parade at various locations are:

Shelter Island (start of parade) 5:30 p.m.
Harbor Island 5:45 – 6:15 p.m.
Seaport Village 6:20 – 6:45 p.m.
The Embarcadero 6:50 – 7:15 p.m.
The Pier at Cesar Chavez Park 7:20 – 7:30 p.m.
Ferry Landing on Coronado 7:40 p.m.

Musical storytime takeover with Nightingale Music
2025-12-16 11:00 - 11:30 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Enjoy a special storytime takeover by Nightingale Music. We’ll play with lollipop drums, rainbow scarves, tambourines, maracas and more. Marvin the Monkey will come by and teach us the major scale and we’ll learn to stomp and dance like the elephants in the jungle. We’ll pop bubbles to the beat and have a guitar time sing-a-long. Nightingale Music classes bring out your child’s natural ability for music and create a relaxed, playful environment for learning, so don’t miss the fun Tuesday, December 16 at 11 am.
Toddler storytime will resume as normal after this fun takeover.

Christmas Elf Adventures Holiday Workshop
2025-12-18 15:30 - 17:00 | Club Room, 1985 Strand Way, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
The Elf Adventures Holiday Workshop is here. Young elves ages 6-11 are invited to join in for a festive day filled with winter crafts, holiday baking, reindeer games, and loads of holiday fun. It’s happening Thursday, Dec. 18, from 3:30 to 5 pm in the Club Room in Glorietta Bay Park.
Dress in your favorite holiday attire and come ready for adventure. Sign up by calling 619-522-7342 or visiting coronado.ca.us/register. Let’s make this the jolliest holiday yet.
Direct Link: https://bit.ly/ChristmasElfAdventures

Tween Dungeons and Dragons Club
2025-12-19 15:30 - 17:30 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
The Tween Dungeons and Dragons Club is for students aged 8-13. Beginners are welcome and Dungeon Masters are provided by The Goblin Guild.
Registration is required as we have a very limited number of seats. Walk-ins may not be accommodated.
This program is made possible by the Friends of Coronado Library.

San Diego Bay Parade of Lights (2 of 2)
2025-12-21 17:30 - 19:45 | San Diego Bay, 200 Marina Park Way, San Diego, CA, 92101, United States

Musical storytime takeover with Ralph's World
2025-12-29 11:00 - 12:00 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Get ready for a fun filled morning of music with Ralph’s World at this special Baby Storytime takeover. Perfect for littles (and their bigger siblings) to enjoy musical favorites and interactive fun.
Baby storytime will resume as normal the following week.

Family Feud: Snowy Showdown
2025-12-30 12:30 - 13:30 | John D. Spreckels Center, 1019 Seventh Street, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Wrap Up the Season with a Festive Family Feud: Snowy Showdown at the Spreckels Center

As the holiday season comes to a close, the John D. Spreckels Center invites the community to join in one last burst of festive fun at our Family Feud: Snowy Showdown on Tuesday, December 30, from 12:30–1:30 p.m.
Four teams will be formed to face off in a friendly, fast-paced competition to guess the most popular answers to holiday-themed survey questions. Expect plenty of laughter, lighthearted rivalry, and a joyful atmosphere perfect for the season’s grand finale. While the grand prize may be “small but mighty,” the bragging rights are huge—and the fun even bigger.
This event is offered at a cheerful, budget-friendly rate, with prices ranging from $5–$9, depending on senior discount and residency.
Whether you’re competing or cheering from the audience, this snowy showdown promises a delightful hour of entertainment and community spirit.
To learn more about this event or other seasonal activities, visit www.coronado.ca.us/civicrec, call 619-522-7343, or stop by the John D. Spreckels Center at 1019 Seventh Street in Coronado. Let the holiday games begin!

Teen "Lord of the Rings" cosplay watch party
2025-12-30 13:00 - 16:00 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Watch The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (rated pg-13) on Tuesday, Dec. 30. Come cozy or dressed as your favorite LOTR or fantasy character. Snacks provided. Costumes are encouraged, but no masks that completely cover your face, or weapons, fake or otherwise. Adults are welcome, only if accompanied by a teen.
For students entering or finishing 6th-12th grade.

Noon Year
2025-12-31 11:00 - 12:30 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
It’s time to say goodbye to 2025 and hello to 2026, but midnight is way too late! Celebrate the new year with a 2026 headband, streamers, and a balloon drop at noon sharp.

Holiday Bowl Parade & Game Day 5K Run/Walk
2026-01-02 10:00 | CA
Port of San Diego welcomes you to enjoy the annual Port of San Diego Holiday Bowl Parade and Game Day 5K
Photo courtesy of David Frerker for Sports San Diego.
The Port of San Diego welcomes visitors to the Port of San Diego Holiday Bowl Parade presented by Kaiser Permanente on Friday, January 2 at 10 a.m. along the San Diego Bay waterfront.
“The parade is a wonderful way to celebrate the holidays and mark the start of a new year with marching bands, colorful balloons, festive floats, and more,” said Chair Danielle Moore, Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners. “Whether you’re in town for the game or a local resident, this family-fun and free event welcomes visitors near and far to experience and enjoy our beautiful San Diego Bay waterfront.”
This year’s parade is expected to draw more than 100,000 street-side spectators and a nationwide television audience. The parade is free to attend and watch, and the public can also choose to buy Grandstand Seating Tickets. In addition to enjoying a procession of giant balloons and local performers, parade spectators will be greeted by special guests including Port of San Diego Board Commissioner Sid Voorakkara.
The parade will be live streamed on CBS 8, and it can be viewed at holidaybowl.com. The website also has more information on the Port of San Diego Holiday Bowl Parade, including parking, parade route, grandstand tickets, volunteering, and all Holiday Bowl events.
Before the parade, thousands will also participate in the annual Game Day 5K Run/Walk taking place along the waterfront. The Port is title sponsor of the Holiday Bowl Parade and Game Day 5K Run/Walk through its Tidelands Activation Programs (TAP). TAP is an annual grant program through which the Port supports events of all sizes that engage and inspire visitors to enjoy San Diego Bay.

The Hive of Five: Historical fiction author event
2026-01-08 18:30 - 19:30 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
One incredible night, five New York Times bestselling historical fiction authors.

Kate Quinn (The Astral Library), Stephanie Dray (Becoming Madam Secretary), Kristina McMorris (The Girls of Good Fortune), Allison Pataki (It Girl), and Madeline Martin (The Secret Book Society) will come together to share the research, revelations, and hidden histories that bring their novels to life, offering readers a rare glimpse into the past through their collective expertise. After their discussion, a Q&A and book signing will follow.
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 the newest release of one of the authors through Adventures by the Book. Please visit https://adventuresbythebook.com/calendar-event/history-hive-1-8-26/ for more information.

Kate Quinn is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of historical fiction whose work spans ancient Rome, the Italian Renaissance, and most recently the 20th century with hits like The Alice Network, The Huntress, The Rose Code, The Diamond Eye, and The Briar Club. A native of Southern California with degrees in Classical Voice from Boston University, she now lives in Maryland with her husband and rescue dogs. Her upcoming novel, The Astral Library (February 2026), offers a fantastical adventure inviting readers into a world where books become portals to new lives and limitless possibilities.

Stephanie Dray is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author known for richly researched historical novels such as The Women of Chateau Lafayette, My Dear Hamilton, and America’s First Daughter. Her award-winning work on the often-overlooked Founding Mothers has been translated into eight languages. Based in Maryland with her husband, cats, and a home full of history books, she recently released Becoming Madam Secretary, about trailblazing labor secretary Frances Perkins, and will soon publish A Founding Mother, an intimate portrait of Abigail Adams timed to the nation’s 250th anniversary.

Kristina McMorris is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author of ten historical works, including the million-copy bestseller Sold on a Monday and the international bestseller The Ways We Hide, a top Target pick of 2022. A recipient of more than twenty national awards and a former television host who began her career at age nine, she now divides her time between San Diego and Oregon, where she’s raising two collegiate sons. Her latest novel, The Girls of Good Fortune, explores family, identity, and buried histories tied to Portland’s mysterious Shanghai Tunnels.

Allison Pataki is a New York Times bestselling author of numerous historical novels—including Finding Margaret Fuller, The Magnificent Lives of Marjorie Post, and The Queen’s Fortune—as well as a memoir and children’s books, with her work translated into more than 24 languages. A former news writer and producer, she has contributed to major media outlets and appeared on national television programs. A Yale graduate and certified yoga instructor, she lives in New York with her family. Her forthcoming novel, It Girl (March 2026), chronicles the dramatic rise of America’s original “It Girl.”

Madeline Martin is a New York Times and internationally bestselling author of historical fiction and romance, including The Booklover’s Library, The Keeper of Hidden Books, and The Librarian Spy, with her novels translated into more than 25 languages. Living in Florida with her family and two spoiled cats, she credits her love of history to her upbringing as an Army brat in Germany. Her newest release, The Secret Book Society, a USA Today bestseller, transports readers to Victorian London for a tale of a forbidden book club, dangerous secrets, and brave women defying convention.

Villa-Lobos Festival Concert: "A Pasch Premiere - Three Friends in Rio"
2026-01-09 13:00 - 14:00 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Cellist Lars Hoefs and pianist Aline Alves come back to Southern California from Brazil, presenting their Villa-Lobos Festival. They will play music by a range of Latin American composers in this three concert series.
This year’s festival kicks off with the “A Pasch Premiere – Three Friends in Rio,” performed by the Blue Rose Trio. The Blue Rose Trio consists of Rose Chen on piano, Karl Pasch on clarinet, and Lars Hoefs on cello. Aline Alves will be featured on piano.
This concert is free and no reservations are required. Seating is first-come, first-served, general admission. Doors open at 12:45 p.m.
This concert is presented in partnership with Coronado Arts.

From Plate to Page: An evening with Jessica Secrest
2026-01-13 19:00 - 20:00 | Coronado Performing Arts Center, 650 D Avenue, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Coronado Public Library, in partnership with Warwick’s Bookstore, welcomes @applesauceandadhd Jessica Secrest as she discusses her new cookbook OF COURSE IT’S GOOD! on Tuesday, January 13.
This event is a fundraiser for the Friends of the Coronado Public Library and a paid ticket is required to enter. Ticket options are:

$10 entry only
$31.60 for admission for one person and one copy of OF COURSE IT’S GOOD
$39.83 for admission for two people and one copy of OF COURSE IT’S GOOD
Check-in starts/doors open at 6:15 pm. Please print out your tickets or have the QR code available on your phone.
Seating is first-come, first served.
“With Book” ticketholders will receive a paperback copy of OF COURSE IT’S GOOD at check-in.
Additional books will be available for purchase at this event.
The Performing Arts Center is directly behind the Coronado Public Library. You can view a parking map HERE. The two lots marked “school parking lots (for select events only)” will be available.
Purchase tickets online HERE.

About the Author
Jessica Secrest is a mom, home chef, and the creator of the popular social media page @applesauceandadhd.

About OF COURSE IT’S GOOD: None of the Nonsense, All of the Flavor
Prepare delicious meals with this no-frills, all-flavor recipe collection from Jessica Secrest, the wildly popular home chef known for her hostile humor and affordable recipes. Her long-awaited debut cookbook has an array of mouthwatering meals that focus on low-effort ingredients and techniques — think pre-shredded cheese, tater tots galore, and your handy-dandy slow cooker — so you’ll have an endless source of recipes to feed your family without wasting time or money.
Jessica’s signature style is present throughout each page, loudly guiding you in the kitchen and reminding you that tasty cooking doesn’t always need to be done with a smile. Recipes include:
– The BEST Baked Mac and Cheese
– Taco Potato Tot Casserole
– Egg Roll in a Bowl
– Cowboy BBQ Burgers
– Teriyaki Pork
– Fried Pickle Quesadillas
– Sloppy Joe Fries
– Slow Cooker Spinach Artichoke Dip
Whether you are looking to tackle weeknight dinner, Sunday breakfast, or an out-of-nowhere dessert craving, you’ll have Jessica in your corner each step of the way, aggressively reminding you that no matter what you create, there’s no doubt it’ll be good.

Villa-Lobos Festival Concert: "Brazilian Poetry, Eyes of the Beloved, and Bachianas Mexicanas"
2026-01-16 13:00 - 14:00 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Cellist Lars Hoefs and pianist Aline Alves come back to Southern California from Brazil, presenting their Villa-Lobos Festival. They will play music by a range of Latin American composers in this three concert series.
The second concert of this year’s festival, “Brazilian Poetry, Eyes of the Beloved, and Bachianas Mexicanas,” will feature a variety of musicians and instruments including: Daniel Parente, soprano, Daniel Kamon on saxophone, Ching-Ming Cheng on piano, Lars Hoefs on cello, Aline Alves performing poetry recitation, and Venus Rey Jr., a visiting composer and speaker.
This concert is free and no reservations are required. Seating is first-come, first-served, general admission. Doors open at 12:45 p.m.
This concert is presented in partnership with Coronado Arts.

FILM FORUM CORONADO: "The Last of Sheila" (1973)
2026-01-21 18:00 - 21:00 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Coronado Public Library, in partnership with the Coronado Island Film Festival, presents FILM FORUM CORONADO, taking place the first and third Wednesday of each month at 6 pm in the library’s Winn Room. Film expert Ralph DeLauro provides a brief introduction to each film and leads a discussion afterwards, often including pointers about how lighting or camera angles contribute to a scene’s mood or propel the story.
January 21: The Last of Sheila (1973, PG, 120 min)
Composer Stephen Sondheim and actor Anthony Perkins crafted a deliciously bitchy little bonbon that takes assault on Hollywood secrets. A nasty producer (James Coburn) lures a sordid group of friends to holiday on his yacht — aiming to unmask one of them as the hit-and-run killer of his wife Sheila. The star-studded cast includes James Mason, Dyan Cannon, Richard Benjamin, Raquel Welch and Joan Hackett.

CIFF Monthly Classic Film: “Network” (1976)
2026-01-28 17:30 | Village Theatre, 820 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Director: Sidney Lumet
Starring: Faye Dunaway, William Holden, Peter Finch, Robert Duvall, Ned Beatty, Beatrice Straight
Synopsis: When veteran anchorman Howard Beale is forced to retire his 25-year post because of his age, he announces to viewers that he will kill himself during his farewell broadcast. Network executives rethink their decision when his fanatical tirade results in a spike in ratings.
Runtime: 2 hours 2 minutes

In the Abstract artist reception & exhibit opening
2026-01-28 17:30 | C3 Gallery, 1845 Strand Way, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
We’re kicking off the year with art, creativity, and community!
Join us for the In the Abstract Artist Reception & Exhibit Opening on Wednesday, January 28 at 5:30 pm at the C3 Gallery in the Coronado Community Center.
Featuring the work of 23 artists, this exhibition celebrates abstract art in all its forms. Bring a friend and enjoy a fun, welcoming evening surrounded by art.

Villa-Lobos Festival Concert: "The Pride of the Caribbean and Spanish Flair"
2026-01-30 13:00 - 14:00 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Cellist Lars Hoefs and pianist Aline Alves come back to Southern California from Brazil, presenting their Villa-Lobos Festival. They will play music by a range of Latin American composers in this three concert series.
This year’s finale, “The Pride of the Caribbean and Spanish Flair,” is a celebration of strings. This concert will feature Francisco Vila on the cello, Isaac Allen on violin I, Batya MacAdam-Somer on violin II, Travis Maril on viola, and Lars Hoefs on cello.
This concert is free and no reservations are required. Seating is first-come, first-served, general admission. Doors open at 12:45 p.m.
This concert is presented in partnership with Coronado Arts.

Ink & intrigue: "Hooked" with Caitlin Rother
2026-02-05 19:00 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Join us for an evening with Caitlin Rother, bestselling author and investigative journalist, as she explores the twists and turns of her latest thriller, Hooked, set right here in San Diego. Drawing on her background in true-crime reporting — including her acclaimed Death on Ocean Boulevard, set in Coronado — Rother brings real-world tension and insight to her fiction. Hear how investigative journalism fuels her suspenseful storytelling and what it takes to keep readers guessing until the final page.
Books will be available for sale at the event and a book signing will follow the talk.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Investigative reporter Katrina Chopin is back home in San Diego on a mission (or two). The first is personal: reheating the cold case of her parents’ murder and investigating her brother’s reported suicide. The second involves a new spate of deaths with alleged causes that just don’t smell right. She and Detective Ken Goode need each other’s help for both. But she has to keep the sexy surfer at arm’s length, because dating him is off limits. For now.
Teaming up, they make coordinated progress down each path. Digging deeper into La Jolla’s corrupt network of elites, they uncover a pattern of lies, depravity, and greed. And with every new discovery, Katrina is pulled closer to danger…and to Goode.
Sharing sexy phone calls and sunset drinks isn’t exactly following the rules, but fully crossing that line could jeopardize the case. As they start to connect the dots, they realize they must risk everything to bring down the shadowy cabal that kills to keep its secrets.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Caitlin Rother has written or co-authored 16 books, ranging from true crime to thrillers and memoir. A New York Times bestselling author and investigative journalist, Rother worked nearly 20 years for daily newspapers. Writing books full-time since 2006, she draws from decades of watchdog reporting on topics from addiction to suicide, mental illness, murder, government, political corruption and the criminal justice system. A popular speaker, she has appeared more than 250 times on TV, radio, and podcasts as a crime expert. A former writing instructor of 10 years, she coaches a limited number of aspiring author clients. In her spare time, she goes ocean swimming, sings and plays keyboards in a jazzy, bluesy trio called In the Lounge. Explore the photo galleries and learn about her latest titles, backlist, videos, and podcasts at caitlinrother.com.

The Love Songs of Gregory Page
2026-02-06 13:00 - 14:00 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Get ready for Valentine’s Day as world-renowned troubadour, poet, and international touring and recording artist Gregory Page visits the Coronado Public Library for an afternoon of his timely and timeless original and re-imagined love songs. Please join us to experience the brilliant, romantic, nostalgic and evocative songbook of this true artist who captures his world travels (and our hearts) through the lens of music.

K-Pop Demon Hunters Fan Fest
2026-02-06 17:00 - 20:00 | Coronado Community Center, 1845 Strand Way, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Looking for a fun and unique Friday night for your child? Join us at the Coronado Community Center for the K-Pop Demon Hunters Fan Fest, happening Friday, Feb 6, 5–8 pm. Designed for ages 8–14, this youth-focused celebration of fantasy, fun, and fandom features dancing, sing-alongs, ramen, crafts, movies, and so much more! Registration is limited, so secure a spot by calling 619-522-7342 or visiting www.coronado.ca.us.
Direct Link: https://bit.ly/KPopFanFest

Coronado Philharmonia Orchestra celebrates Valentine’s Day with renowned cellist Paul Tseng in “Mon Valentin”
2026-02-14 19:00 - 21:00 | Coronado Performing Arts Center, 650 D Avenue, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
The Coronado Philharmonia Orchestra will hold a special Valentine’s Day concert featuring internationally acclaimed cellist Paul Tseng as guest soloist. This romantic evening, Mon Valentin, takes place on February 14 and promises an unforgettable celebration of passion, elegance, and musical artistry.
Tseng will perform two beloved masterpieces of the cello repertoire: Saint-Saëns’ Cello Concerto No. 1, a work of dazzling virtuosity and emotional intensity, and Fauré’s Élégie, a deeply expressive meditation on longing and beauty. Together, these works offer a program rich in lyricism and romantic depth — perfect for an evening devoted to love and music.
An internationally recognized artist, Paul Tseng has appeared in prestigious venues such as Carnegie Hall and the Cairo Royal Opera House. A prize-winning chamber musician, he is a member of the acclaimed Delphian Trio and holds degrees from The Juilliard School and the Peabody Conservatory. Tseng also serves as Artistic Director of the San Diego Music Society, where he continues to champion innovative and inspiring musical experiences.
Audiences are invited to join the Coronado Philharmonia Orchestra for this enchanting Valentine’s Day performance — an evening where romance meets artistry in one of San Diego’s most intimate concert settings.
The 7 pm performance will follow a 6:30 pm pre-concert talk.
PURCHASE TICKETS: coronadophilharmonia.org
