Two Chula Vista events that are not coming back in 2024

Oh, Chula Vista, you energetic little city. You’ve always had a special place in my heart, especially when it comes to finding fun family events. There’s never a dull moment here, with something for everyone to dive into month after month, especially as the warmer months bring their weekend full of fun events.

However, it would help if you braced yourselves for a bit of a bummer this year: we’re bidding goodbye to two of our beloved Chula Vista events. It’s a mystery why they’re pulling the plug, though I suspect it’s the usual suspects: cash, commitment, and the colossal effort it takes to entertain us. Sadly, these two events won’t be making their regular appearance in our summer lineup.

Las Jefa’s Market is not returning

By sheer luck, I once stumbled into an affair that quickly became a favorite of mine: Las Jefa’s Market, a haven where female entrepreneurs showcased their businesses & handcrafted items. Imagine a bustling bazaar of up to 20 vendors, each gathering under a new monthly theme. The event was located within the heart of the Otay Ranch Town Center.

The dynamic duo behind this magic, Rocky and Reyna, poured their souls into orchestrating these gatherings. My first time attending coincided with their two-year jubilee, and from then on, I was hooked, eagerly anticipating each month’s new theme and the chance to support local businesses.

Their final fiesta before a brief hiatus was a vibrant Dia De Los Muertos celebration, complete with live tunes and a spot for kiddos to unleash their creativity. Rocky hinted at a hiatus, with whispers of a revival in April at a fresh locale and a new twist. The details are still under wraps, but fear not—I’ll be on the lookout, ready to post when it’s time to rally behind them once agina in a new location.

Amps & Ales in Downtown Chula Vista is pulling the plug

Ah, Amps & Ales, the one event I always seemed to chase and never catch up to. In 2023, it grew into something bigger, sprawling beyond Memorial Park to even some of Third Avenue. I was excited to attend the event and have a good time. However, something came up, and once again, I was unable to participate in the event. Now I will never get the chance.

Amps & Ales was the popular event for lovers of local tunes and brews—a ticket was your golden key to taste-testing the finest brews & spirits in town. You also had the chance to check out up-and-coming local bands. Even without a ticket, you could’ve snagged a cheeky spot outside the perimeter, tunes tickling your ears, with a DIY six-pack sourced from a neighborhood brewery.

Rumor has it, the fest was a huge feat to pull off, financially speaking. Between fencing off public land, hiring security, and jumping through the city’s hoops, it seems the coffers couldn’t keep up. Now, there’s chatter about pivoting to more family-friendly fare. But hey, who says grown-ups don’t deserve their own playground now and then, especially with Third Avenue’s brewery scene?

What Chla Vista events are you looking forward to

Fear not Chula Vista! Our calendar is still packed with events that will keep our spirits high and our agendas full. One such event I’m eagerly anticipating is the Earth Day celebration at the marina, set for April 13th. Last year was an absolute blast, and I’m excited to see how they’ll top it in 2024.

Then there’s the CV Art Fest, which I’m on pins and needles waiting for confirmation. It had so much creativity last time, and rumors are swirling that the city’s busy dotting the i’s and crossing the t’s to bring it back this year. Rest assured, as soon as I get the green light, you’ll hear it from me first.

So, what’s got you marking your calendars in anticipation this year? I’m all ears and ready to keep you in the loop with all the goings-on around town. Remember to hit that like and follow button on Instagram and Facebook to stay connected!