(photo credit: Scarlett Baily)

San Diego’s creative economy reached a new milestone this year, as Arts District Liberty Station has been named one of California’s newest state-designated cultural districts, a recognition the City of San Diego proudly supported. 

The designation announced Dec. 12 by the California Arts Council took effect Jan. 1 and runs through Dec. 31, 2030. Arts District Liberty Station now joins 23 other cultural districts statewide recognized for their strong concentration of arts, culture and creative activity. 

From the City’s perspective, the designation validates years of investment, collaboration and vision. Part of the redevelopment of San Diego’s former Naval Training Center, Arts District Liberty Station has transformed former barracks and training facilities into a destination where arts, culture and community come together. 

“Arts District Liberty Station has become one of San Diego’s most important creative hubs, and this designation from the California Arts Council reflects the real impact it has on our city,” said San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria. “The City was proud to support this application, which recognizes the artists, galleries, museums, creative organizations and public art that have helped transform a former Naval Training Center into a thriving arts and entertainment destination.”  

Arts District Liberty Station spans 100 acres and includes more than 100 museums, galleries, studios and nonprofit organizations. Over the past 25 years, the district has overseen the preservation of 26 historic buildings and transformed 18 of them into active, creative spaces that serve residents and visitors alike. 

The California Arts Council administers the California Cultural Districts program. It was created to help communities use art and culture as tools to strengthen local economies, attract tourism and preserve historic places. Districts are selected through a competitive process that includes peer review and site visits. 

As part of the designation, Arts District Liberty Station will receive $10,000 over two years, along with official state certification, technical assistance and access to statewide marketing and branding resources. These resources will support the district’s growth and expand opportunities for arts and cultural experiences. 

“It is wonderful that Arts District Liberty Station received this official cultural district status,” said Councilmember Jennifer Campbell. “This designation will help bring more state support and visibility to the many creatives and organizations who make this community vibrant and welcoming for residents and visitors alike.” 

For the City, the designation is more than an honor; it also helps elevate San Diego’s creative economy, strengthens partnerships between arts, small businesses and the community, and brings new visibility to the artists and organizations that make the city unique. 

For residents and visitors, the designation will enhance awareness of the many opportunities to experience art, culture and creativity in a historic setting that reflects San Diego’s past and future. 

Cultural Affairs advances the City’s arts, culture and creative industries. As a division of the Economic Development Department, Cultural Affairs drives an equitable and inclusive creative economy and arts ecosystem that reflects the region’s cultural diversity and works to advance San Diego as a global city. To learn more, visit sandiego.gov/cultural-affairs.