Coronado Times

Concert in the Park: High Tide Society
2025-07-27 18:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Spreckels Park, 601 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Making their Coronado Concert in the Park debut is High Tide Society, formerly known as AM Gold, San Diego County’s premier yacht rock band for over a decade. This 8-10 piece band, with their blend of horns, guitars, keyboards, and harmonic vocals, combines soft rock, upbeat R&B, and disco dance hits from the ’70s, ’80s, ’90s and beyond. So don your captain’s hat and your ascot tie and get ready to dance the night away.
Website: High Tide Society
Pre-Show Special Appearance by Lamb’s Players
at 5:15pm:
The ’70s – The Golden Age of the Album!

Summer on the Strand: Rad Hatter Upcycled Crafting
2025-07-30 09:30 - 10:30 | Silver Strand Youth Center, 1302 Leyte Road, Coronado, 92118, United States
Join us this Summer on the Strand! The Coronado Public Library, in collaboration with the Silver Strand Youth Center, will be hosting exciting events for all ages every Wednesday at 9:30 am all summer long! Kids, teens, and adults can sign up for our Summer Reading Program at these events, log their reads, and pick up their prizes while enjoying a different fun-filled event each week. These events will take place outside, so pack your sunscreen and a blanket to sit on and enjoy. * Please note that public restrooms are not available at this location.
This program is made possible thanks to the support of the Friends of the Coronado Public Library.

Come craft with us! This week, the Rad Hatter will be here with all the materials you need to create your own upcycled hat creation! The Rad Bag Hats are handmade from paper grocery bags and recycled materials. You’ll step up to the Hat Bar to decorate your festive memento using embellishments including ribbon, glitter, feathers, beads, recycled items, and so much more. Entertaining and engaging, the process of making Rad Hats is just as fun as what happens next: wearing them! Be sure you have a camera ready for the priceless pictures. The magic of Rad Hats lasts long after the party is over.

A Wild Encounter in Coronado – Up Close with Exotic Animals
2025-07-30 12:00 | Nautilus Room, Coronado Community Center, 1845 Strand Way, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Wild creatures are coming to Coronado! Enter the mysterious world of the rainforest—without leaving town! On Wednesday, July 30 at noon, the Coronado Community Center’s Nautilus Room becomes the gateway to Wild Wonders, an unforgettable wildlife experience. Watch in awe as captivating creatures from South America emerge from the shadows—Think a slinking boa constrictor, a wide-eyed kinkajou, or even a curious armadillo. This free event invites animal lovers of all ages to meet these exotic animals up close, guided by the knowledge and passion of a seasoned animal biologist. Let your wild side roam!

Concert in the Park: Military Appreciation Concert: Sixwire & Guest Star
2025-08-03 18:00 | Spreckels Park, 601 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Military Appreciation Concert in the Park and Awards Ceremony will begin at 5 pm honoring local military members and their families.
The Coronado Chamber of Commerce invites the community to a very special Concert in the Park on Sunday, August 3 at Spreckels Park beginning at 5 pm honoring our local military members and their families. The evening promises an unforgettable blend of patriotic pride, heartfelt recognition, and outstanding musical entertainment—all free and open to the public.
This event offers a unique opportunity for Coronado residents and the local business community to come together in gratitude and support of the brave service members who protect our nation. Join us for a beautiful evening of community, connections, and celebration.
Attendees are encouraged to arrive early and be seated by 5 pm. Bring your blankets, lawn chairs, and a picnic dinner for a meaningful and festive summer evening in Spreckels Park.
There is limited reserved parking for active-duty military members at the CUSD parking lots on Sixth and Seventh Streets.
Event Schedule
5:00 – 5:15 pm
The evening opens with the 1st Marine Division Band, performing the National Anthem and other selections, accompanied by the Coronado High School NJROTC Color Guard.
5:15 – 5:20 pm
Welcome remarks will be given by Chamber Board Member Mike Woiwode and Captain Loren Jacobi, Commanding Officer of Naval Base Coronado.
5:20 – 5:45 pm
Presentation of Military and Community Awards:

CAPT Harry T. Jenkins Memorial Award
VADM James & Sybil Stockdale Community Service Award
VADM Edward H. Martin Distinguished Community Service Award, presented by the City of Coronado

5:45 – 6:00 pm
Announcements and acknowledgments of the generous sponsors who made this evening possible – Gail & Bob Bardin, Carol Sommer, Arlene Inch and the Auen Foundation.
6:00 – 7:45 pm
The concert begins with the acclaimed Nashville band Sixwire, joined by a very special surprise guest who will remain after the show for photos with attendees.

Sixwire
A Little Bit Country, A Little Bit Rock and Roll. Sixwire is one of the busiest, hardest-working bands to come out of Nashville. In addition to performing their own spectacular shows featuring everything from their own hits to the best in pop, rock, classic rock, and even country, Sixwire regularly welcomes special celebrity guests to sit in with them. Sixwire members served as “house band” on USA Network’s “Nashville Star,” and continued their television work on FOX’s “Next Great American Band,” CMT’s “Next Superstar,” and ABC’s dramatic series “Nashville.”
The band also served as the first ever house band for the NFL Draft on ESPN, and most recently performed for the Las Vegas Raiders’ private event at this year’s Super Bowl.
And, Special Guest – To be Announced at Concert

Summer on the Strand: Storytelling with Aunt Li-Anne
2025-08-06 09:30 - 10:30 | Silver Strand Youth Center, 1302 Leyte Road, Coronado, 92118, United States
Join us this Summer on the Strand! The Coronado Public Library, in collaboration with the Silver Strand Youth Center, will be hosting exciting events for all ages every Wednesday at 9:30 am all summer long. Kids, teens, and adults can sign up for our Summer Reading Program at these events, log their reads, and pick up their prizes while enjoying a different fun-filled event each week. These events will take place outside, so pack your sunscreen and a blanket to sit on and enjoy. * Please note that public restrooms are not available at this location.
This program is made possible thanks to the support of the Friends of the Coronado Public Library.

Come hear Professional Storyteller Aunt Li-Anne enchant your imagination with “Around the World with Stories: Tales of Kids and Critters from other countries.” Embark on thrilling adventures to Mexico, Europe, and Asia, where captivating tales of children and curious critters await. Aunt Li-Anne weaves magic with her vibrant narratives, bringing to life the rich cultures and traditions of distant lands. Spark your child’s curiosity and foster a love for global storytelling. Don’t miss this unforgettable journey!

Mad Science Show – Up Up and Away
2025-08-06 12:00 | Nautilus Room, Coronado Community Center, 1845 Strand Way, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Get ready to defy gravity and explore the invisible forces all around us. Mad Science – Up Up and Away is a FREE interactive science show that will blow your mind as you discover the principles of air and pressure. From giant wind bags to vortex generators—and even a real hovercraft—you’ll see science come alive in the most amazing ways.
Join us Wednesday, August 6 at noon at the Coronado Community Center’s Nautilus Room. Open to all ages and completely free.

Concert in the Park: Betamaxx
2025-08-10 18:00 | Spreckels Park, 601 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
The ’80s Never Go Out of Style. Pac-Man, Thriller, the Berlin Wall, New Coke, The Breakfast Club, and the Cabbage Patch Doll — the 1980s were a time of political change, new technology, bad fashions, and some memorable pop music. Formed in 2009, BETAMAXX recreates and celebrates the sounds of that decade in a live musical experience.
BETAMAXX covers the whole range of ’80s music: the rock of Pat Benatar, the glossy pop of Journey, Michael Jackson’s funk, The Smiths’ jangle, and the new wave of Depeche Mode. BETAMAXX knows what people love because they loved it when it first hit the charts. The versatility and high level of musicianship within the band allows BETAMAXX to play it all.
Website: BETAMAXX

Coronado Community Center Celebrates 20 Years
2025-08-17 11:00 - 13:00 | Coronado Community Center, 1845 Strand Way, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
The Coronado Community Center is throwing a party—and you’re invited! Join us Sunday, August 17 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. as we celebrate two decades of community, connection, and countless memories at the Coronado Community Center.
Get ready to explore every corner of the building at 1845 Strand Way, where something exciting for all ages will be happening in almost every room. The fun begins at 11 a.m. with an official ribbon cutting. Enjoy hands-on crafts, carnival games, a cooking station, and interactive dance and fitness demos. Feeling adventurous? Test your skills at inflatable archery or on the climbing wall and try your luck at basketball free throws or corn hole.
Make a splash at the Aquatics Center, home to a massive inflatable obstacle course, water exercise classes, lap swim, family swim, and classic deck games.
The celebration doesn’t stop there: enjoy a treasure hunt, spin the prize wheel, get your face painted, and refuel with free pizza, drinks, and party cupcakes.
Admission is free, however space is limited. Pre-registration is required and includes general entry, goodie bag, and food. Please note additional sign-ups are required for select activities. Reserve your spot now and help us celebrate 20 amazing years of this lively, active community hub.

Concert in the Park: The Suenamis
2025-08-17 18:00 | Spreckels Park, 601 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Courtesy photo
One of our community’s newest local music groups will take the gazebo stage at Spreckels Park on August 17.
Imagine pumping quarters into the jukebox in a roadside diner along a dark highway, only to hear rock classics obscured by the clatter of dishes and the clang of the pinball machine under stark fluorescent lights. The antidote is hearing great tunes live, played and sung by a group that has the vibe just right — powerful vocals backed by the warmth and energy of a tight, soulful band.
The Suenamis have high energy and a rocking sound, featuring lead singer Sue Shirey. The versatile band also consists of: Robb Huff, Guitar and Vocals; Tricialynn Naval, Keys and Vocals; René Roques, Guitar; Phil Hammett, Bass; and Marty Bastuba on Drums.
The Suenamis

Concert in the Park: Mirage - Visions of Fleetwood Mac
2025-08-24 17:00 | Spreckels Park, 601 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Courtesy photo
Making a rare San Diego County appearance, Mirage is widely regarded as the #1 Fleetwood Mac tribute band in America. So authentic are their sounds and costumes, that you will swear you are attending a real Fleetwood Mac concert. Mirage is, in fact, the only Fleetwood Mac tribute band personally endorsed by the iconic Stevie Nicks herself. So jump into your time machine, as Mirage takes you back to the ’70s and ’80s for a concert you will not soon forget. Yes folks, the Mac is Back!
MIRAGETRIBUTE.com

Concert in the Park: Crown Town
2025-08-31 17:00 | Spreckels Park, 601 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Courtesy photo
Coronado’s own Matt Heinecke has been playing gigs in our town since he was a freshman at Coronado High School. His unique style of guitar draws on a wide range of influences, including folk, classical, rock, jazz, country and bluegrass.
Over a 20+ year career of professional performances the singer-songwriter has been featured everywhere from Coronado coffee shops to the studios of Los Angeles and Nashville. In addition to a full performance schedule, he is the band director of the Coronado Unified School District, preparing a new generation of artists for our stage and well beyond.
Crown Town

Pirates of the Sea with Richard Lederer
2025-09-13 11:00 - 12:00 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Union Tribune columnist and International Punster of the Year Richard Lederer will unlock a treasure chest of pirate jokes and riddles. Dr. Lederer will also reveal the origins of nautical words and phrases. Learn what happened when Bluebeard fell into the Red Sea, why pirates wear earrings, and more, as you laugh your way though Lederer’s musings.
Books will be available for sale after the show.

Public Safety Open House
2025-10-05 11:00 - 14:00 | Coronado Fire Department, 1001 Sixth Street, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
The community is invited to join the Coronado Fire and Police Departments on Sunday, October 5 at their Public Safety Open House. The free event kicks off National Fire Prevention Week and takes place between 11 am and 2 pm around the main Fire Station (6th Street) and the Police Department (7th Street) on D Avenue.
Meet the city’s firefighters, police officers, and beach lifeguards and learn how they protect the community. The public can take part in activities for the whole family, including station tours and safety demonstrations.

Old-Fashioned Ice Cream Social to Celebrate Coronado Rotary's 100th Anniversary
2025-10-11 13:00 - 15:00 | Spreckels Park, 601 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Coronado Rotary is celebrating its 100th anniversary by providing various gifts to Coronado throughout the year.
On Saturday, Oct. 11, they will hold an old-fashioned Ice Cream Social from 1 to 3 pm in Spreckels Park. Enjoy MooTime ice cream, music, and fellowship. The event is free and all are welcome!
Rotary members Suzanne Manuel, John Matthews, Fred Eckert, Suzanne Frontz, President Natalie Bailey, Jane Simeral, Ginger Cox, Carol Sommer, Steve Duermeyer. Courtesy photo.

Free Pumpkin Painting Activity at the Ferry Landing
2025-10-21 15:30 - 17:00 | Coronado Ferry Landing, 1201 First Street, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Celebrate the season with an afternoon of festive family fun! On Tuesday, Oct. 21, from 3:30 to 5:00 pm, the Coronado Farmers Market and Coronado Recreation and Golf Services Department are hosting a free pumpkin painting event for children ages 12 and under at the scenic Coronado Ferry Landing (201 First Street).
This outdoor gathering is the perfect chance for kids to express their creativity, enjoy the fall spirit, and take home a hand-painted pumpkin. No registration is needed — just drop in and join the fun. Create special Halloween memories with your little ones that you’ll cherish for years to come.
For more information, please call 619-522-7342.

Halloween Happening 2025
2025-10-24 15:30 - 17:30 | Spreckels Park, 601 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Get ready for some family-friendly fun at the City of Coronado Recreation and Golf Services annual “Halloween Happening” on Friday, Oct. 24 from 3:30 to 5:30 pm. “Ghouls,” “Boos,” and their families are encouraged to dress in costume and head to Spreckels Park to enjoy music, enchanting entertainment, trick-or-treating, “Spooktacular” games, jumpees, crafts, prizes, candy, and activities including a life-size Candyland game at no cost.
Food and beverages will be available for purchase as well.
Call 619-522-7342 for more details.
The fun continues across the street at the Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave., with “The Scooby Doo Halloween Mystery” at 6 pm.

Scooby Doo Halloween Mystery
2025-10-24 18:00 - 19:00 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Solve the Mystery of the Library Ghost with Scooby Doo and the Gang! A ghost has trapped the Mystery Gang inside the library’s books — can you crack the clues and set them free? Wander through the stacks, uncover hidden hints, and match each character to their story at this special after hours library event. Recommended for ages 5+
This program is made possible by the Friends of the Coronado Public Library.

Pumpkin patch and carnival fun at the Ferry Landing
2025-10-26 15:00 - 18:00 | Coronado Ferry Landing, 1201 First Street, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
The Ferry Landing is proud to host a pumpkin patch with carnival fun! Come down to the compass at the Ferry Landing on Sunday, Oct. 26, from 3 to 6 pm to join the experience of the season.
Pumpkins, carnival booth games, crafts, photo ops
It’s a festive pumpkin patch, locally. Save yourself a drive and bring a wagon filled with kids to see what the Ferry Landing is all about. With plenty of pumpkins to choose from, everyone can find the perfect canvas for their holiday jack-o-lantern.
Stay for the games! There will be carnival booth games that bring back old-time fun. For the little ones, craft stations will be set up, so bring your spooky spirit and get ready to create a masterpiece. The autumn-themed booths and decorations will make you feel fall-fabulous. Stop by Coronado Coffee Company for a pumpkin spice latte and hot chocolate to complete the vibe, or stay for dinner at one of the unbeatable waterfront restaurants.
How you spend your time at the pumpkin patch is entirely up to you. Be sure to bring your camera for the seasonal photo-op setups with themed backdrops. One thing is certain: when you visit the Ferry Landing, you’ll leave with memories to cherish.
Fall at the Ferry Landing (The Coronado Times)

Musical Halloween Storytime Takeover with Nightingale Music
2025-10-28 11:00 - 11:30 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Enjoy a special Halloween 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 creates a relaxed, playful environment for learning, so don’t miss the fun Tuesday, October 28 at 11 am.
Toddler storytime will resume as normal after this fun takeover.

Howl-o-ween at PAWS
2025-10-31 10:00 - 14:00 | PAWS of Coronado, 1395 First Street, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Join PAWS of Coronado on Halloween for spooky fun and adorable memories.
Come dressed in your best costume — humans and animals welcome!
📸 We’ll snap your photo in costume
🍬 Grab a treat on October 31 from 10 am – 2 pm
🏠 Take a photo home
All for a suggested donation of $10
Proceeds benefit the animals in our care.

Mainstreet Goes Ghostly
2025-10-31 15:00 - 17:30 | CA
Costumes on, candy bags ready! Join the Halloween fun as local businesses hand out goodies to hundreds of trick-or-treaters during this annual Coronado tradition on Halloween afternoon between 3 and 5:30 pm.
​​Coronado MainStreet will have a cauldron in Rotary Plaza to collect coupons for a drawing of their Coronado Currency gift certificate program. Coupons will be on fliers sent home with Coronado children at each school.

"Aladdin Jr." with Islander Youth Theater
2025-11-19 19:00 | Coronado Performing Arts Center, 650 D Avenue, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
CoSA Foundation and Playground Players Productions presents Aladdin Jr. with Islander Youth Theater.
Join us for a magical evening filled with singing, dancing, and fun as our talented young performers bring this beloved story to life. The show will take place at the Coronado Performing Arts Center, 650 D Ave. on Wednesday, Nov. 19 and Thursday, Nov. 20 at 7 pm.
Tickets are available at CoSAFoundation.org or at the door.
The cast is composed of 20 TK-1st grade students in the Junior show choir performing a medley prior to the cast of 50 students in 2nd-8th grade (pictured above) performing the main show. It’s family-friendly and great for audiences of all ages.
Ticket link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/aladdin-jr-with-islander-youth-theater-tickets-1744769836549?aff=oddtdtcreator

"Aladdin Jr." with Islander Youth Theater
2025-11-20 19:00 | CA

Happy Thanksgiving Charlie Brown!
2025-11-25 15:00 - 16:00 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Good Grief! It’s time for Thanksgiving with Charlie Brown! Enjoy the feature film It’s Thanksgiving, Charlie Brown! with the traditional Peanut’s thanksgiving feast and a craft.

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.

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 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.

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.
