Old Town San Diego State Historic Park is celebrating travel and transportation from the era of real horsepower during Stagecoach Days. These free events feature a different theme each Saturday such as: Days of the Vaqueros, Women of the West, Soldiers and Citizens, TwainFest, and Taste of the Past.

Attendees will enjoy afternoons filled with activities that reflect life in early San Diego and celebrate the West on the move. Through living history activities and demonstrations, stories, and songs, visitors will gain an appreciation for early modes of transportation and daily life. All activities are geared toward children and adults of all ages.

July 8: “Games and Amusements.” Try your hand at 19th-century games and amusements.

July 15: “Women of the West.” Women played an important part in the development of the West. The contribution of women on the settlement of the West will be shown through activities and demonstrations. One of the highlights of the day will be the annual Quilt Walk throughout the park, featuring antique quilts.

July 22: “Taste of the Past.” Food is an important part of our culture. See how food was prepared, acquired, and celebrated. This Saturday will explore the foods, preparation, and dining experience of people in early San Diego.

July 29: “Soldiers and Citizens.” The military has been part of San Diego since its inception. Following the Mexican–American War, the soldiers of many cultures had a large impact on life in San Diego. See historic uniforms, weapons, and hear the stories of these soldiers.

August 5: “Trades That Shaped Westward Expansion.” As towns developed in the West, so did the need for specialized trades and artisans. Old Town San Diego will present pivotal 19th century trades that helped shape the community of San Diego.

August 12: “Days of the Vaquero.” Vaqueros were the first cowboys in California. They were highly skilled equestrians and cattle herders who were an integral part of the early cattle trade in California. This day will celebrate their horsemanship techniques and other aspects of Californio culture.

August 19: “TwainFest.” This popular festival celebrates literacy and the literary works of Mark Twain and other 19th-century authors. Excerpts from famous works will be depicted by costumed San Diego actors at a variety of park venues throughout the day.

August 26: “West on the Move.” The California Gold Rush brought thousands of people to San Diego. While some stayed, many more passed through seeking their fortunes further north. On this Saturday, there will be demonstrations and activities that interpret how transportation affected the lives of these people on the move.