Iconic Gaslamp Quarter celebrates 150 years

In 1867, Alonzo Horton sailed into the San Diego Bay with a vision and a healthy dose of determination. He dreamed of transforming the dusty plain that lay before him into a thriving port city. He believed San Diego’s naturally deep harbor, vast agricultural potential, and amiable climate made the area “a Heaven on Earth.”

Horton transformed an area that was once known as “Rabbitville,” a moniker coined to poke fun at the area’s principal inhabitants, into the Gaslamp Quarter. This year, the Gaslamp Quarter Association is celebrating the 150^th anniversary of the neighborhood with several special events and a public art installation to commemorate the occasion. Here’s a look at what they have in store:

 

New logo

“Millions of people have ed under the Gaslamp Archway since it was installed nearly 30 years ago,” said Michael Trimble, executive director of the Gaslamp Quarter Association. “We felt the 150^th anniversary logo should pay homage to this iconic structure and offer a glimpse into our rich history.” The new logo, developed with the San Diego History Center, features a bold “150” superimposed with historical photographs of the district underneath the Quarter’s ed trademark and Victorian-esque filigree.

 

Public art campaign

Local artists are being commissioned to paint and decorate 15 rabbit sculptures (one for each decade) that will be on display throughout the district. Corporate patrons can sponsor these sculptures, with a percentage of funds going toward a new enhanced lighting in the Gaslamp Quarter in 2018.

 

Merchant participation

Some of the neighborhood’s 13 hotels, 130 restaurants and bars, 25 nightlife venues, 70 retailers, and five art galleries will be offering 150^th anniversary promotions to visitors. There will be no shortage of discounts, special offers, and new menu items offered in 2017. Visit Gaslamp.org/150 for more details.

 

Flat-rate parking

The Gaslamp Quarter Association and the Downtown Community Parking District want to make it easy for guests and San Diego locals to enjoy the anniversary promotions all week long. Throughout 2017, five dollar flat-rate parking will be offered at the 6^th and K Parkade Sundays through Thursdays from 6 p.m. to 3 a.m.

 

Sesquicentennial party

Capping off the events is a party 150 years in the making, coming this summer! Visit Gaslamp.org/150 for more details.