When I was 18, my family took a trip to San Diego for Padres game. All it took was one post-game, traffic-filled drive down 5th Avenue through Gaslamp Quarter and I was in LOVE! The lights, the busy streets, the lively-looking bars and restaurants – I immediately fell head over heels for downtown San Diego, and said to myself and everyone else in the car that one day I would move down. So, 13 years later, sitting under twinkle lights on 5th Avenue in my best gown, dining on San Diego’s best cuisine, and celebrating 150 years of the great Gaslamp Quarter, I kind of had to pinch myself.
What a night! Not only was the gala commemorating 150 years of Gaslamp growth, it was also recognizing top local business with the Gaslamp’s annual Lamplighter Awards. Starting at 5:30, Hard Rock Hotel’s Float lounge hosted a cocktail hour and silent auction. Between auction items and elegant food samplings from Gaslamp restaurants, rabbit statues were scattered about. “Rabbitville”, as the art exhibit was called, is a nod to downtown’s past, as the area that is now Gaslamp Quarter was originally inhabited by rapidly procreating families of rabbits. Not only an interesting fun-fact and symbol of growth, the rabbits of all colors created a whimsical, “Alice in Wonderland” vibe.
After a little music, munchies and cocktails, we were directed down the stairs to 5th Avenue where the things got even more magical. Lights, flowers, and a 13-piece band greeted us! The evening proceeded with awarding Gaslamp’s favorite businesses and delicious dinner and dessert provided by Cohn Restaurant Group and Sysco foods.
The evening concluded with an epic after party at “Gaslamp’s Favorite Pub”, Henry’s Pub!
It’s crazy how things work out. I am a nurse now, as I have always planned to be, but I am so grateful to have worked as a waitress in historic Gaslamp Quarter, with its beautiful architecture and rich history. I’m so grateful to have met friends and experienced all the action that the Gaslamp brings as part of my job. From Comic Con, to Halloween, to New Years Eve, the Gaslamp is still my favorite place to be for a night out in San Diego. I am grateful to maintain my connection with downtown, as I met my partner, Steve, in Gaslamp Quarter, who is now the General Manager Henry’s Pub and the reason I was able to attend this fabulous event! Thirteen years later, I am still head over heels for America’s Finest City and Gaslamp Quarter, the Historic Heart of San Diego. Cheers to you, Gaslamp! To many more years of growth and success!
The Practical Priss 