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Michelin-starred Lilo in Carlsbad will mark its first anniversary with a one-night-only collaborative dinner on April 17, bringing together acclaimed local chefs Travis Swikard, Tara Monsod, and Jason McLeod. The multi-course evening will blend Lilo's celebrated menu with signature dishes from its guest chefs, offering a rare showcase of San Diego's culinary talent. The milestone follows a remarkable debut year for Lilo, which earned a Michelin star just two months after opening, landed on The New York Times' list of America's 50 Best Restaurants, and garnered national design acclaim, while chef Eric Bost was named a James Beard Award semifinalist. North County's standout venue, Frontwave Arena, welcomes SD Fight Night: Family Business on April 18. The inaugural installment of what's planned to be a series that will bring regular, high-level boxing to San Diego features local boxers (and cousins) Julius Ballo and Jonny Mansour, who'll compete separately in this double main event. This month also opens the 2026 seasons of the Oceanside Bombers Arena Football League team and the San Diego Strike Force of the Indoor Football League — both of which call Frontwave Arena their home turf, in addition to the San Diego Sockers and the San Diego Clippers G League basketball team, whose seasons wrapped in March. The Coronado Flower Show returns April 18 and 19, celebrating its 104th year as both the largest tented flower show in the U.S. and Coronado's longest-running tradition. Presented by the Coronado Floral Association, this year's theme, "Welcome to the Jungle," invites guests into an immersive world of lush installations, vibrant floral design, and imaginative botanical displays. Held in Spreckels Park, the two-day festival features horticulture and design competitions, live entertainment, educational workshops, and a lively beer and wine garden. Community-wide programming extends the celebration across the island, making it a true showcase of creativity, nature, and local spirit. What's Next L'Auberge Del Mar invites guests to its second annual L'Auberge Uncorked: A Coastal Wine Celebration on May 3 from 1 to 4pm, offering an elevated afternoon of wine, cuisine, and oceanfront ambiance. Set on the terrace overlooking the Pacific, the grand tasting showcases an impressive lineup of local and international wineries, with opportunities to connect directly with vintners and explore curated selections. The experience is complemented by live music and an indulgent array of bites, from freshly shucked oysters to carved tomahawk steak and playful coastal fare. Consider the Uncork & Unwind package, featuring the best available room rate and a L'Auberge Uncorked ticket for each adult booked in the room. Gator By The Bay returns May 7 to 10, transforming Spanish Landing Park into a lively Louisiana-inspired celebration along the San Diego Bay. The four-day festival kicks off with a free Thursday evening party, setting the stage for a weekend of more than 100 live performances across seven stages, featuring renowned Zydeco, Cajun, blues, and New Orleans funk artists. Beyond the music, guests can indulge in authentic Southern fare — including 10,000 pounds of fresh crawfish — explore cooking demonstrations, shop artisan vendors, and join in festive dancing and parades. Held over Mother's Day weekend, this family- friendly event brings the spirit of Mardi Gras to San Diego with vibrant culture, cuisine, and community. BY MIA PARK AND DEANNA MURPHY Coronado Flower Show Lilo L'Auberge Uncorked: A Coastal Wine Celebration Frontwave Arena FRONTWAVE ARENA: PHOTO BY PINK MEDIA PRODUCTIONS L'AUBERGE DEL MAR: PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF RENATO FILMS GATOR BY THE BAY: PHOTO BY JON NAUGLE @ranchandcoast RANCH & COAST MAGAZINE APRIL 2026 43