San Diego Reader

Thursday | 5

VIDEOGRAPHER’S LOUNGE: CINCO DE MAYO

The Media Arts Center hosts this free celebration of “Animation Month,” screening animated shorts and providing drinks and snacks. Mingle with others who share your passion for film!

Friday | 6

AROUND THE UNIVERSE IN 80 HOURS

Gaslight Gathering presents “Southern California’s first dedicated Steampunk and Victorian Convention.” Historians gather for lectures and panel discussion; period enthusiasts can browse and buy art, witness technological demonstrations, and take part in themed activities.

Saturday | 7

COMPLEXIONS CONTEMPORARY BALLET

The New York–based company comes to Birch North Park Theatre to perform Moon Over Jupiter, On Holiday, Goldberg Variations, Moody Booty Blues, and Rise during this recital hosted by the La Jolla Music Society.

CHOCOLATE FESTIVAL — HURRAY!

“Dozens of delectable chocolate tastings,” demonstrations, a chocolate fountain, children’s activities, vendors… Children’s author Mara Price will be on hand to sign her bilingual book, Grandma’s Chocolate/El Chocolate de Abuelita, and music will be provided by Blue Creek Band. It’s all happening at the San Diego Botanic Garden.

Sunday | 8

GATOR BY THE BAY

The tenth-annual zydeco and Cajun festival showcases music, food, dance, and “8000 pounds of crawfish straight from Louisiana!” Sample authentic Creole food, see dancers and costumed New Orleans–style parades, and hear music from a line-up that includes Maria Muldaur, Elvin Bishop, and Brian Jack and the Zydeco Gamblers.

GOSPEL BRUNCH

Give your mother a fun brunch experience at the House of Blues, where “inspiring gospel performances” by full choirs and bands will entertain while you dine on “an amazing buffet,” which features sections such as “Southern Comfort” and “Blue Bayou.”

Monday | 9

INTO THE SANCTUARY: EXPLORING THE HEALING POWER OF SONG

San Diego Hospice’s Sacred Art of Living and Dying Committee hosts “inner harmony sessions” with composer, recording artist, and educator Michael Stillwater at the Bamboo Lounge.

Tuesday | 10

MUSIC AND ART SINCE 1945

Victoria Martino’s lecture-concert series explores the “interrelationship between music and the visual arts,” focusing on “the explosive proliferation of cultural trends in the wake of World War II, leading up to the present day.”

Wednesday | 11

HOW TO TALK TO YOUR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER

Get tips for talking to the doc! Learn techniques for successful visits, including strategies for good communication, discussing sensitive subjects, and being a “knowledgeable health care consumer.”