Event Dates
From: Awaiting dates
To: Awaiting dates
Red Dress Party San Diego 2027
This is a night of music and dancing mixed with charity and fun.
Red Dress Party San Diego 2027
Red Dress Party San Diego is a celebration to raise awareness and funds for organizations that serve the local HIV/AIDS community; but not your typical fundraising gala, this event is so much more.
- Visiting San Diego for the event? Stay close to the gay bars and take a ride share to the host venue. Try the Kings Inn Hotel, with a great pool, gym and perfect location.
The Party
- Next Edition: Awaiting dates.
- Red Dress Party San Diego takes over the San Diego Natural History Museum in Balboa Park from 8 pm to midnight.
- Everyone attending must wear a red dress or dress-inspired outfit. The rule applies to everyone, regardless of gender.
- Expect everything from elaborate celestial gowns and red togas to sexy interpretations of zodiac signs.
- Jeans, khakis, casual streetwear and black suits are not permitted. Your outfit should be predominantly red.
- The event combines DJs, dancing, bars, entertainment and VIP areas with a fundraising drive supporting organisations serving San Diego’s HIV community.
- VIP guests can enter from 7.30 pm, giving them an extra half hour before general admission begins.
- Part of the fun is seeing just how far guests take the red dress theme. Previous editions have featured everything from classic cocktail dresses to elaborate costumes, drag looks and barely-there creations.
- Book tickets in advance as ticket prices increase as the event approaches.
The Venue
- San Diego Natural History Museum in Balboa Park, with the entire museum transformed for the night.
- Enter through the Main Foyer and red carpet before exploring the different party areas spread across the building.
- Head downstairs for the main dance floor, high-energy DJ sets, casual seating and the Luxe Lounges.
- The upper levels remain open during the party, letting guests explore the museum’s exhibits, fossils, murals and displays between sets.
- Head to the rooftop Estrella Lounge for Latin beats, seating and views across Balboa Park.
- Coat check is available, handy if your red dress requires a change into more dance-friendly shoes later in the evening.
- The event is strictly 21+.
The Cause
- Red Dress Party San Diego is produced by Think Red Project, a nonprofit organisation raising funds and awareness for organisations serving San Diego’s HIV community.
- The event has raised over $480,000 for local HIV services during its first decade.
- The 2026 fundraising target is $70,000, which would make it the organisation’s largest single-year contribution.
- Funds support services ranging from HIV testing and prevention to treatment, counselling and care.
Where to Go Before the Party
Start your evening in Hillcrest before taking a short taxi or rideshare to Balboa Park.
- Urban MO’s – One of Hillcrest’s busiest gay bars and restaurants, with a large patio, cocktails and a fun mixed crowd. A good choice for an early dinner and drinks before changing into full Red Dress mode.
- Flicks – Long-running gay video bar on University Avenue with a lively local crowd, DJs and plenty of space for meeting friends before the party.
- Number One Fifth Avenue – Relaxed gay neighbourhood bar on Fifth Avenue with a large patio and an easy-going crowd, convenient for Balboa Park.
- Rich’s San Diego – Hillcrest’s largest gay nightclub, with multiple dance areas, DJs and late-night parties. Save this one for after Red Dress if you want to continue beyond midnight.
Where to Stay
Stay in Hillcrest for the gay bars and restaurants around University Avenue, or Downtown San Diego for a wider selection of upscale hotels, restaurants and attractions. Balboa Park sits between the two districts.
- Inn at the Park – Historic all-suite property directly on the western edge of Balboa Park, with spacious rooms and a terrace. One of the closest hotel options to the 2026 venue.
- Alma San Diego Downtown, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel – Stylish Downtown hotel with contemporary rooms, a rooftop pool and an excellent location for Balboa Park, the Gaslamp Quarter and Hillcrest.
- Pendry San Diego – Five-star Gaslamp Quarter hotel with sophisticated rooms, a rooftop pool, several restaurants and bars and plenty happening nearby after the party.
- The US Grant, a Luxury Collection Hotel – Landmark luxury hotel in Downtown San Diego with elegant rooms and grand interiors, convenient for Balboa Park, Little Italy and the Gaslamp Quarter.
Recommended Hotels
Where to stay close to all the gay bars.
Our top 4 hotels with the best rates.
Where we stay!
Solamar Hotel is a Kimpton, a great
gay-friendly chain perfect location
Official Website
For further information and advice on
Red Dress Party visit The Website
Gay Map of San Diego
The gay scene in San Diego is located mostly in the trendy Hillcrest neighborhood, just northeast of Balboa Park and a short drive or cab ride from downtown. Several others are in the districts just to the east of Hillcrest: University Heights and Normal Heights.
Address: 550 J Street, San Diego, CA 92101, USA
- Stylish hotel with clean lines and modern interiors.
- Rooftop pool draws a social daytime crowd.
- Multiple bars and restaurants add strong nightlife appeal.
- Rooms feel polished with upscale finishes.
- Central setting suits dining, events, and city stays.
- Popular choice for travelers seeking an energetic base.
- Website
Address: 910 Broadway Circle, San Diego, CA 92101, USA
- Modern hotel with rooftop pool and fitness studio.
- Offers on-site dining and pet-friendly rooms.
- Located near Gaslamp Quarter and Petco Park.
- Features spacious rooms with city views.
- Hosts events in versatile meeting spaces.
- Ideal for both business and leisure travelers.
- Website
Address: 520 E Street, San Diego, CA 92101, USA
- Historic hotel with preserved 1913 architecture and European flair.
- Offers rooftop terrace with panoramic downtown views.
- Rooms feature marble, brass, and vintage woodwork.
- Located steps from theaters, dining, and nightlife.
- Includes on-site fondue and wine bar options.
- Popular for its charm and central location.
- Website
Address: 525 Spruce Street, San Diego, CA 92103, USA
- Historic boutique hotel with spacious, suite-style accommodations.
- Features rooftop terrace offering panoramic city views.
- Located near Balboa Park and San Diego Zoo.
- Suites include kitchenettes and modern amenities.
- Ideal for extended stays and leisure travelers.
- Provides a blend of classic charm and contemporary comfort.
- Website
Address: 1642 University Ave, Suite 100, San Diego, CA 92103, USA
- LGBTQ-owned restaurant offering California-Mediterranean cuisine.
- Features an open-air atrium with modern urban architecture.
- Hosts themed events and seasonal decor experiences.
- Provides a welcoming atmosphere for all guests.
- Recognized as a unique dining destination in San Diego.
- Open: Tue–Thu 4pm–10:30pm; Fri 4pm–12am;
- Sat 10am–12am; Sun 10am–5pm
- Website
Address: 1807 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101, USA
- Longstanding gay bar with glam décor and chandeliers.
- Offers strong drinks and daily happy hour specials.
- Features pool table, jukebox, and themed nights.
- Welcoming to LGBTQ+ community and allies alike.
- Known for its friendly staff and inclusive atmosphere.
- Open: Daily 10am–2am
Address: 929 Broadway, San Diego, CA 92101, USA
- Historic dive bar with vintage decor and neon lights.
- Offers cheap drinks and a selection of microbrews.
- Features pool tables, jukebox, and local art displays.
- Welcomes a diverse crowd in a laid-back setting.
- Known for its unpretentious atmosphere and strong pours.
- Open: Daily 12pm–2am
Address: 222 W Washington St, San Diego, CA 92103, USA
- Cozy dive bar offering affordable drinks and friendly service.
- Features pool tables, jukebox, and sports TVs.
- Hosts trivia nights and occasional events.
- Popular spot in the Hillcrest community.
- Known for its unpretentious atmosphere and strong pours.
- Open: Mon–Thu 2pm–2am; Fri–Sun 11am–2am
Address: 1017 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92103, USA
- Long-standing gay video bar with nightly events and karaoke.
- Features go-go dancers, themed nights, and drag shows.
- Offers affordable drinks and a lively dance floor.
- Hosts popular events like Welfare Wednesday and RUSH.
- A staple in San Diego's LGBTQ+ nightlife scene.
- Open: Mon–Thu 4pm–2am; Fri–Sat 2pm–2am; Sun 12pm–2am
Address: 1220 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92103, USA
- Vibrant LGBTQ+ bar with a femme-forward atmosphere.
- Features drag shows, bingo, and themed dance nights.
- Offers modern comfort food and creative cocktails.
- Boasts a spacious patio with fire pits and colorful decor.
- A cornerstone of San Diego's queer nightlife scene.
- Open: Tue–Thu: 2pm–12am; Fri: 2pm–2am;
- Sat: 11am–2am; Sun: 11am–10pm
Address: 1458 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92103, USA
- World’s first out-and-proud gay brewery with cheeky beer names.
- Offers stone-fired pizzas, oven-baked wings, & house-made pretzels.
- Features a dog-friendly patio and lively indoor seating.
- Hosts events like drag shows, trivia, and sports screenings.
- A staple in San Diego's LGBTQ+ nightlife scene.
- Open: Mon–Fri 2pm–9pm; Sat 11am–10pm; Sun 10am–8pm
- Website
Address: 3845 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92103, USA
- Longstanding gay dive bar with a welcoming atmosphere.
- Features karaoke, trivia, and drag performances.
- Offers affordable drinks and friendly service.
- Includes a spacious back patio with pool tables.
- A staple in Hillcrest's LGBTQ+ nightlife scene.
- Open: Mon–Thu 3pm–1:30am Fri–Sat 12pm–2am Sun 12pm–1:30am
Address: 3537 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92103, USA
- Retro tavern with red booths and a classic jukebox.
- Known for juicy ribs, patty melts, and strong drinks.
- Offers specialty cocktails like the Hemingway Daiquiri.
- Features a covered patio and friendly, attentive staff.
- Popular neighborhood spot welcoming to all patrons.
- Open: Mon–Tue 5pm–2am; Wed–Thu 2pm–2am; Fri–Sun 12pm–2am
- Website
Address: 1027 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92103, USA
- Lively gay sports bar with a welcoming atmosphere.
- Offers classic American fare and handcrafted cocktails.
- Features multiple TVs for sports viewing and events.
- Hosts daily happy hours and themed nights.
- Popular spot in Hillcrest's LGBTQ+ community.
- Open: Mon–Thu 3pm–1am; Fri 3pm–2am;
- Sat 10am–2am; Sun 10am–1am
- Website
Address: 1051 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92103, USA
- San Diego's largest gay nightclub with two spacious dance floors.
- Hosts themed nights, drag shows, and top DJs weekly.
- Features VIP booths, outdoor patios, and vibrant lighting.
- Offers a high-energy atmosphere for dancing and socializing.
- A cornerstone of Hillcrest's LGBTQ+ nightlife scene.
- Open: Wed–Thu 10pm–2am; Fri–Sun 9pm–2am; Sat 9pm–4am
Address: 1403 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92103, USA
- Longstanding dive bar with a rock 'n roll vibe.
- Features pool tables, jukebox, and outdoor patio.
- Cash-only establishment with ATM on-site.
- Welcomes LGBTQ+ community and allies alike.
- Known for strong drinks and friendly atmosphere.
- Open: Daily 7am–2am
- Website
Address: 3610 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92103, USA
- Neighborhood gay bar with strong drinks and friendly staff.
- Features pool table, jukebox, and relaxed atmosphere.
- Offers front and back patios for casual gatherings.
- Hosts events like karaoke and themed nights.
- Popular spot in Hillcrest's LGBTQ+ community.
- Open: Daily 11am–1:30am
Address: 3796 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92103, USA
- Historic gay bar with vibrant drag shows and themed nights.
- Features go-go dancers, DJs, and a spacious dance floor.
- Offers happy hours, karaoke, and diverse events weekly.
- Welcomes a diverse LGBTQ+ crowd in a lively setting.
- A cornerstone of San Diego's queer nightlife scene.
- Open: Mon 3pm–8pm (3rd Mon 3pm–2am); Tue 3pm–10pm;
- Wed–Thu 3pm–2am; Fri 3pm–2am; Sat 12pm–2am; Sun 12pm–close
Address: 308 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92103, USA
- Gay-friendly bar and grill with a vibrant atmosphere.
- Hosts drag brunches, themed nights, and dance events.
- Offers a diverse menu including burgers and cocktails.
- Features an outdoor patio and lively dance floor.
- A staple in San Diego's LGBTQ+ nightlife scene.
- Open: Mon–Thu 10am–11pm; Fri 10am–1am; Sat 9am–1am;
- Sun 9am–11pm
Address: 2028 Hancock St, San Diego, CA 92110, USA
- Multi-level venue with immersive lighting and sound systems.
- Hosts top DJs spinning house, techno, and bass music.
- Features rooftop lounge and spacious dance floors.
- Offers VIP bottle service and relaxed dress code.
- Inclusive space welcoming the LGBTQ+ community.
- Open: Thu 9pm–1:30am; Fri 9pm–2am; Sat 9pm–4am
Address: 2046 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92104, USA
- Laid-back gay bar with pool tables and a spacious patio.
- Offers strong drinks, happy hour specials, and bar games.
- Hosts events like drag race viewings and game nights.
- Features a diverse crowd and welcoming atmosphere.
- A staple in San Diego's LGBTQ+ nightlife scene.
- Open: Mon–Thu 12pm–12am; Fri–Sat 12pm–2am; Sun 12pm–12am
- Website
Address: 4012 30th St, San Diego, CA 92104, USA
- Neighborhood bar offering karaoke six nights a week.
- Serves hearty bar food and daily drink specials.
- Features a spacious patio and welcoming atmosphere.
- Hosts themed events and trivia nights regularly.
- Popular spot in North Park's LGBTQ+ community.
- Open: Mon 4pm–1am; Tue–Thu & Sun 11am–1am;
- Fri–Sat 11am–2am
- Website
Address: 3040 N Park Way, San Diego, CA 92104, USA
- Gay leather bar with a masculine, low-key vibe.
- Hosts kink-themed nights and underwear contests.
- Offers affordable drinks and daily happy hour.
- Features pool table and casual indoor space.
- Popular with locals in North Park's LGBTQ+ scene.
- Open: Mon–Thu 4pm–2am; Fri–Sun 2pm–2am
Address: 1839 Adams Ave, San Diego, CA 92116, USA
- Neighborhood gay bar with a laid-back, welcoming vibe.
- Offers pool table, jukebox, and outdoor patio seating.
- Hosts karaoke nights, trivia, and Sunday BBQ events.
- Known for affordable drinks and friendly atmosphere.
- A staple in University Heights' LGBTQ+ community.
- Open: Daily 11am–2am
- Website
Address: 4545 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92116, USA
- Gay bar offering live entertainment and community events.
- Features drag shows, karaoke, and themed nights.
- Serves cocktails in a cozy, inclusive setting.
- Hosts art exhibits and cultural gatherings regularly.
- A cherished spot in San Diego's LGBTQ+ nightlife scene.
- Open: Wed–Sat 5pm–close; Sun 1pm–7pm; Mon–Tue Closed
- Website
Address: 2820 Lytton St, San Diego, CA 92110, USA
- Cocktail-focused bar with a relaxed, vintage-inspired atmosphere.
- Serves classic and seasonal drinks with house-made ingredients.
- Features an intimate lounge and spacious outdoor patio.
- Hosts events like karaoke and DJ nights weekly.
- Welcomes a diverse crowd in San Diego's Point Loma area.
- Open: Thu–Sun 6pm–12am; Mon–Wed Closed
- Website
Address: 1835 Columbia St, San Diego, CA 92101, USA
- Rooftop gay happy hour with panoramic bay views.
- Features live DJs, affordable drinks, and lively crowd.
- Located atop Porto Vista Hotel in Little Italy.
- Popular Friday gathering for locals and visitors alike.
- Offers a relaxed atmosphere to kick off the weekend.
- Open: Fridays 5pm–10pm
Recommended Hotels in San Diego
Book with confidence. Get the best Prices from our partner Booking.com
We have chosen hotels in San Diego that keep you close to all the shops, restaurants & bars
Pendry San Diego
4 Star, Fab Pool
- 4 Star – Restaurant, Outdoor Pool, Fitness Center
- Close to the gay district
- Free WiFi, 24-hour front desk, very good breakfast
- Offers restaurant, outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, bar, free WiFi, 24-hour front desk, and room service.
The Westin
4 Star, Readers Choice
- 4 Star – Sundeck, Outdoor Games, Spa Services
- Close to the gay district
- Flat-screen TV, refrigerator, coffee machine
- Features sundeck with games, spa services, swimming pool, rooms with flat-screen TVs, refrigerators, and coffee machines.
Gaslamp Plaza Suites
3 Star, Great Value
- 3 Star – Historical European-Style, Marble Architecture
- Close to the gay district
- Seating area, Flat screen cable TV, DVD player
- Historical hotel with European style, marble architecture, stylish rooms with seating areas, cable TVs, and DVD players.
Inn at the Park
3 Star, Location
- 3 Star – Located On Balboa Park West Edge
- A short taxi ride to the gay bars
- Piano bar, fully equipped kitchen facilities, spacious
- Unique suites on Balboa Park West edge, piano bar, traditional historic charm, spacious suites with kitchen facilities.
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