San Diego! October promises an incredible month for music enthusiasts throughout our city. From energetic electronic rhythms to smooth R&B tunes, there’s a sound for everyone as the weather cools and the arts scene intensifies. We anticipate a fantastic lineup featuring both well-known performers and promising new artists, offering memorable nights filled with rhythm and melody.
This year’s October concert schedule is full of diverse genres, ensuring that whatever your musical preference, you’ll find something to enjoy. Expect chart-topping artists making stops in San Diego, alongside highly regarded independent acts bringing their distinct sounds to our local stages. Prepare to be impressed by headline shows and discover your next favorite artist right here in America’s Finest City. The stage is set for a memorable month of live music.
- Nation of Language performing live — an indie/new wave highlight at Music Box on Oct. 17, 2025. Source: thescenesd.com
One of the must-see events is the electronic duo Slander, scheduled to perform at The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park on Friday, October 17, 2025. The show begins at 5:00 pm and is for ages 18 and over. Joining them for a night of powerful beats are special guests NGHTMRE, Blanke, Ska, and Redline. This concert is free, providing an excellent chance to experience top-tier electronic music in a beautiful waterfront location without cost.
Another significant event is legendary artist John Legend, marking the 20th anniversary of his influential album “Get Lifted.” This R&B and Soul artist will perform at The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park on Sunday, November 23, 2025, starting at 7:30 pm. This event, suitable for all ages, is also free, a special offering for the community. Presented by Live Nation, this performance celebrates two decades of music and soulful artistry that has resonated with millions globally.
- Felly on stage, promoting his new album ‘Ambroxyde’ — set to perform at Music Box on Oct. 25, 2025. Source: thescenesd.com
For those who appreciate indie and new wave music, Nation of Language will perform at the Music Box venue on Friday, October 17, 2025. Known for their energetic performances and critically acclaimed albums, this band consistently delivers a compelling live show. Their return to San Diego is expected to be a night of energetic synthesizers and engaging melodies that will appeal to fans of sophisticated, danceable music.
Adding to the diverse musical offerings in October is Felly, scheduled to play at Music Box on Saturday, October 25, 2025. Felly skillfully combines indie, alternative, and hip-hop elements, creating a sound that is both distinctive and widely appealing. With the recent release of his album “Ambroxyde” and a career defined by continuous creativity, his performance is eagerly awaited by fans keen to experience his latest material and his well-known songs live.
- John Legend — Get Lifted 20th Anniversary Tour performance at The Rady Shell (Nov. 23, 2025). Source: thescenesd.com
In addition to these featured acts, look out for other exciting events. Comedian Aziz Ansari is presenting his “Hypothetical Tour” at The Magnolia on Saturday, October 26, 2025, promising an evening of humor and insightful social commentary. For rock fans, The Black Jacket Symphony will perform AC/DC’s classic ‘Back In Black’ at The Magnolia on Friday, October 25, 2025, delivering an accurate and powerful interpretation of a beloved album. These additional events further enrich the cultural experiences available in San Diego this October.
Getting tickets for these performances is simple. For events presented by Live Nation or other major organizers, tickets are usually available through Ticketmaster and other authorized sellers. For venue-specific information, including addresses for The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park (222 Marina Park Way) and Music Box, it’s best to check the venue websites directly. We suggest subscribing to local event listings and venue newsletters for the most current information on ticket sales, potential deals, and other happenings in San Diego’s active music scene.
San Diego’s concert venues are preparing for an exceptional October, offering a varied selection of sounds and experiences for locals and visitors. From free, large-scale shows at The Rady Shell to smaller performances at Music Box, the city is alive with musical energy. We anticipate these fantastic events, celebrating the impact of live music and the remarkable talent performing on our stages. Prepare for a month filled with memorable shows and shared experiences!
