San Diego Design Week is where creativity meets civic impact. Powered by Design Forward Alliance, this annual citywide festival celebrates the power of design to drive change across business, education, culture, and community.
Now in its sixth year, SDDW spotlights how San Diego’s designers are building a more impactful, sustainable, and forward-thinking region. From product innovation and digital experiences to public art and civic design, our events explore the future of design through panels, workshops, studio tours, and immersive exhibitions.This year’s theme, Design for Impact, brings together designers, students, and community leaders to tackle challenges in clean water, energy, fitness, and public spaces. The week features citywide activations, a central design showcase at the Mingei Museum, and our signature Design Challenges, real-world initiatives that turn creative ideas into public good.

Whether you’re a designer, entrepreneur, artist, educator, or changemaker, join us in shaping what’s next.

IMPORTANT NOTE: We are selling tickets this year to cover the cost of the evening social events. Most of our content will remain free, including:

• 9/17 – AI in Design @ Mingei Museum
• 9/19 – Design in Education @ UCSD Design Lab
• 9/20 – Industry Day @ Mingei Museum
• 9/21 – Community Showcase and Clean Water Design Challenge @ Nissan Design
• Community hosted events throughout the week

Ticket Types:
Full Conference Pass: Full access to the above events, all free community events, the Opening Ceremony, and evening happy hours on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. DDX is excluded.
Free Community Pass: Access to the above events. Opening Ceremony, happy hours, and DDX are excluded.
A la carte tickets available to the Opening Ceremony and daily happy hours.

So even if you don’t plan to join us for networking, grab a FREE Community Pass and experience tons of incredible content!