WorldBeat Cultural Center

Cultural center · San Diego

WorldBeat Cultural Center

Cultural center · San Diego

1

2100 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101

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WorldBeat Cultural Center by null
WorldBeat Cultural Center by null
WorldBeat Cultural Center by null
WorldBeat Cultural Center by null
WorldBeat Cultural Center by null
WorldBeat Cultural Center by null
WorldBeat Cultural Center by null
WorldBeat Cultural Center by null
WorldBeat Cultural Center by null
WorldBeat Cultural Center by null
WorldBeat Cultural Center by null
WorldBeat Cultural Center by null
WorldBeat Cultural Center by null
WorldBeat Cultural Center by null
WorldBeat Cultural Center by null
WorldBeat Cultural Center by null
WorldBeat Cultural Center by null
WorldBeat Cultural Center by null
WorldBeat Cultural Center by null
WorldBeat Cultural Center by null
WorldBeat Cultural Center by null
WorldBeat Cultural Center by null
WorldBeat Cultural Center by null
WorldBeat Cultural Center by null
WorldBeat Cultural Center by null
WorldBeat Cultural Center by null
WorldBeat Cultural Center by null
WorldBeat Cultural Center by null
WorldBeat Cultural Center by null
WorldBeat Cultural Center by null
WorldBeat Cultural Center by null
WorldBeat Cultural Center by null
WorldBeat Cultural Center by null
WorldBeat Cultural Center by null
WorldBeat Cultural Center by null
WorldBeat Cultural Center by null
WorldBeat Cultural Center by null
WorldBeat Cultural Center by null
WorldBeat Cultural Center by null
WorldBeat Cultural Center by null
WorldBeat Cultural Center by null
WorldBeat Cultural Center by null

Highlights

African diaspora arts, dance, music, and flavorful food  

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2100 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101 Get directions

worldbeatcenter.org
@worldbeatcenter

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2100 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101 Get directions

+1 619 230 1190
worldbeatcenter.org
@worldbeatcenter

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Sep 2, 2025

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A nonprofit hub for African and Indigenous arts in Balboa Park, with free or donation-based exhibits and community festivals. Recognized by KPBS and city leaders for decades of grassroots cultural work.

https://www.worldbeatcenter.org/about-us/
Free Attractions in San Diego (2025)
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Susan Smith

Google
Went for the first time for a 2 day reggae concert, it was fantastic! Everyone was nice and we were honored to meet Makeda. I’ll definitely go back again! It was so much fun!

Taryn JaVonna (Taryn J)

Google
The most peaceful place! My home away from home when I need to escape the day to day for a break. Everyone is extremely nice, friendly, and great communication overall! I always leave satisfied and content, whether it be the flavorful food or just the warm feel of community and connection every time I visit.

Zachary Pesner

Google
My first time stopping by the One World Beat Cafe in person, I've had them delivered via doordash dozens of times since moving here and it's always been flavorful and delicious. Plenty of street parking and I scored a spot in the small lot at the cultural center just above the cafe. The staff was working nonstop and continuously checking in with the other diners and myself. The menu options are limited, but carefully crafted to showcase different flavor palates. I was sad they were out of my favorite Ethnobotany salad, but my fault for coming so late in the day. It's clear the entire team puts love into the experience, image, and food. Very happy with my choice to stop by late afternoon wish I had stopped by more often when I lived in the area. Thanks again!!!

Eric Cheatham

Google
Gteat Food, Great vibes! Was able to meet the owner Makeda. Connected with her since we have the same last name with different spellings. Kadeija, Nanauwe, Fr33sol, and Lavva all had great performances! Vegan Jamaican patties were delicious. Cool people, we loved it and will definitely be back!

Jeenali Kothari

Google
This place was nice. We wanted to try the vegan food but the wait took us off. Tried the chili dog and that was tasty. People were friendly and were nice. Good vibes and gives details about African history.

Theresa of The World

Google
The WorldBeat Cultural Center is a wonder. It was the best part of my visit to San Diego--I was impressed with the embrace San Diego would give to a African and Indigenous-centered establishment and was uber impressed with Makeda's extreme warmth and friendliness. My food was excellent (be sure to try the patties--I wish I had one right now!), I took a dance class and also visited the extensive gardens. My only wish is that I could have come there more, as I was invited and welcomed to do. I had to visit other sites--most impressive was Chicano Park--and so didn't get to enjoy the fullness with Miss Makeda and friends. I will be back and I would say don't hesitate to go if you are considering it...there's something for everyone and if nothing else the place is a visual delight. 🙏🏾

Adilene amaro

Google
Great classes , great food but for events I don’t recommend this place . If you are please clarify your amenities with them because it gets so hot for craft markets there . Also they are very particular on how things are wanted . When i did my event i thought i clarified everything i needed to hear but the next day of the event the cars were still parked when we needed food vendors to be outside and nothing was emptied or ready . It was definitely a bit disorganized but yes please clear things up on better communication

Ana Belly Dancer

Google
A very friendly space. Always has great cultural events. 👍 Makeda Makosa is a wonderful lady!
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Chaudhry A.

Yelp
This spot just off of Inspiration Pt. Way has a small auditorium, yard and a patio to host a variety of events. The event I made to, was about food and music. Music indoors with a stage for performers. The coolest spot is outside with shade however there is plenty of seating inside, and area to check out booths from various exhibitors. Cool and calm with street parking or the designated areas gives all the reasons to be here.
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Michael B.

Yelp
We need more spaces like this in our city. This place is a gem. The history, the culture, the love is seeping through walls and you gotta be prepared to receive it. There's multiple parts to this place. There's an outdoor garden, a cafe, the main cultural center, and more. There's a variety of different Afro-centric and Indigenous centric activities happening here from Zumba to belly dancing to Black Comics to Kwanzaa celebrations to reggae concerts, festivals, summer camps and so much more that I'd run out of room! The wild thing about this place is that it's mostly run by just a handful of people. The food is always solid too. This is an icon in the community. It's a must visit if you're a visitor. It's a community waiting to uplift you if you're BIPOC. And it's a place where you can support and learn more from and with if you're white. In short, it's a place away from home.
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Demi S.

Yelp
The Worldbeat Center is a sanctuary. The murals outside are what initially caught my attention. They are so vibrant and striking that I had to investigate further. Inside offers an array of treats and drinks, with equally comforting hangout / working zones. My boyfriend and I made a modest donation because we wanted to thank the owners of The Center for allowing a space to relax and play chess together without the pressure of buying food or drink. Ms. Makeda Dread Cheatom was so warm and kind, she even generously brought us some delicious and clean-ingredient turmeric juice as a gratitude gift. An abundance of love and positivity surrounds this safe haven. I cannot wait to come back.

Luci R.

Yelp
The food was delicious, I got the African peanut curry with plantains and though it was not a huge portion, the price was definitely reasonable! Will be going again to try other dishes!
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Sharay D.

Yelp
Beautiful hidden gem. Stumbled upon this place after leaving Balboa Park. It was empty except for a couple of people ordering food. In the back, there are beautiful art pieces that display a beautiful broken history of black people. There's a stage and they give showhich highlights talent. There's billboards that give the history that you don't learn in school which is very nice.
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Gary N.

Yelp
Small cozy cultural center, it's a cafe or bar at night, with a stage for dance performances, stand up comedy and more. By day, you could just visit to explore different cultures around the world, today I get to check out African and Indian cultures together. Parking is pretty easy to find on the street around Balboa Park
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Taura G.

Yelp
We came for the MLK Jr Event in 2022. It was okay. We wish that there was more activities to keep the guests busy and more vendors available. It was disappointing to get inside and just have one small section of African Art & artifacts to peruse in a small corner/nook. They definitely need some updates in this space. Our culture deserves a great space to gather and unite. Please consider renovation and redecorating to preserve the flow of the events
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T F.

Yelp
I had their vegan cheeseburger. It was by far the BEST vegan burger I have ever eaten in my entire life (and I've had a lot of vegan burgers). Every single ingredient was so fresh and absolutely top quality. YUM! The sweet potato fries were also very good and fresh. Their vegan bean and cheese burrito was also excellent, as was their chili. Each and every dish had a very unique and fresh taste, with delicious spices. Seriously gourmet quality food in a relaxed and casual atmosphere, and very decently priced. Very highly recommend! And we also got to meet the owner/founder of the Worldbeat Center, and she was so welcoming and a very kind person.
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David G.

Yelp
This place is a real gem in San Diego! From the moment that I walked in, I was warmly greeted by the owner. From the start, I knew that it was a special place. The decorations are cool and the food was amazingly delicious! It felt so real and natural. My stomach thanks me, & it will thank you too. I really recommend it too! : )
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Sarah M.

Yelp
The owner is absolutely an amazing soul and pours her life into the culture and food here. I'm obsessed with the combo plate and Patties. Oh lord. The pastries too. All vegan. I support this place anytime I can.
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Chris P.

Yelp
When you first enter, there isn't much as far as museum style things. However, if you stay long enough you'll see why they call it the world beat. As in, one heart beat. The unity together as cultures bring forward a story that touches the coldest heart. If it doesn't, you better check your pulse. You may be dead.
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Ron M.

Yelp
Im a white male. And a social worker. I entered and was looking at the interesting art. I was there to attend afro beats aerobics 6pm on Tuesday. A black lady came out of the office and asked why I was there. I replied aerobics. She said this is a woman class. That there are other classes with men. I said that didn't concern me as I attend 3 aerobics classes a week and they are usually mostly women. She then said we don't want any problems here. And then I could go or stay. I've never felt so excluded. I'm a social worker, so I recognize bias and hatred when I see it. So, I left
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Tiara W.

Yelp
I really was disappoint by this vegan pop up they had going on! No good vendors, a lot of false advertisement, not much to offer

Tami S.

Yelp
The atmosphere, the people, the food were all great. There was a lot of activity and the artwork alone is worth the teip

Cowrishell C.

Yelp
Johnny Osborne reggae concert tonight 8-11pm but it HAS NOT STARTED yet. It's HOTTER THAN a Bon fire in here. No air but a couple of fans. Stand n sweat or go outside with the many smokers offering you their poison and nasty lipped pipes and Blunts full of their slobber and germs. NO THANKS! But it's 11:15pm and still waiting for Johnny Osborne to start! I WANT A REFUND! Shame on this one!
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Enyioma E.

Yelp
Phew, that jerk burger is so freaking good!!! I ate it and then ordered one to go and ate it again when I got home! Soooo very good! So is the combo plate and the peanut stew. And the staff are so friendly too. Very happy to have found this place.
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Susannah K.

Yelp
Came for Black Comix event for Black History Month, and enjoyed the friendly artists inviting us over to their booths and sharing their passion for graphic arts. Kids had a blast and everything was kid friendly. The event was cool and I was surprised that we had to ask a few people to find the event. They should definitely promote it more and put signs around the park. Will definitely be back for more events here .
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Shayne C.

Yelp
First time at this venue and I was uber eggcited to hear that San Diego was having their very first vegetarian/vegan festival. Woohoo ! The goal of this event was to build a healthy and sustainable movement of conscious San Diegans. It was in support of a compassionate, plant-based, animal-friendly lifestyle. Opened to anyone: first time or long time vegetarian, vegan, pescatarian, flexitarian, locavorian, or curious foodies. Partnered up with the nonprofit organization, Animal Protection and Rescue League, the festival featured speakers, live food demonstrations, tons of giveaways, Veg leadership awards, Q&A sessions, and free food samples. Unfortunately, the live documentary screening could not be played due to technical difficulties. Hopefully, that will be resolved since I was looking forward to it. Very educational ! There was a family area which showcased San Diego County Master Garderner's Association, San Diego Seed Company, San Diego Hydroponics and Organics, and Back to Roots Mushroom Planters. Workshops included: Planting Station for Children's Seedling and Pea Pots, Children's Garden Bugs Coloring, 101's of Organic Gardening, How to Make Worm Compost Tea. Great to get the kids involved ! Indoor activities consisted of: Free Blood Pressure and Glucose Screenings provided by Operation Samahan, Acupuncture Information provided by Pacific College of Oriental Medicine, Chiropractic information provided by Biophysics Chiropractic, Photo Booth Area, Interactive Art Wall Area and more. 'Southern Fried Vegan' and 'Peace Pies' were amongst the food vendors there, but the lines seemed too long and I just didn't have the patience to wait. Recommend eating prior unless they are able to accommodate large groups with less wait. I'm optimistic this will improve. Overall, it was a pretty good show-up of people. It was a warm day and the venue got a bit stuffy and barely any circulation inside so perhaps another venue to accommodate more people in an open air setting. A few kinks here and there, but as their inaugural event, I thought it was a success. Hope San Diego continues to hold this event. I'm already looking forward to the next one. Get VEGUCATED peeps !
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Jane A.

Yelp
MUSIC VENUE I've been here a few times for music events, mainly to catch Soulful House DJ's spin. First time I came here I didn't even live in San Diego and was visiting the area with friends. The past couple times I been here, I've came for The Weekender. Most recently, Souleil. The venue isn't very big and most of the parties are outside starting in the afternoon and latest until 10pm. Not the best venue and there isn't in-and-outs. I can only stand the place 2hrs tops before itching to leave. They set the DJ's up on a small stage with partial tent coverage above the small dancing area. Few tents serving liquor and beer. Maybe one food venue if lucky serving food. It's really small and not much to do unless you dance the entire time in which I'm not drunk enough. The Souleil event was pretty cool, DJ Heather and DJ Colette performed - I have been a fan of Colette for a long time so it was nice to see her perform live. BUT I'll be real, DJ Heather had a better set. Until the next event..
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Shreyans P.

Yelp
The Worldbeat Center is one of my favorite places for vegan food in San Diego with a diverse menu of Caribbean cuisines - the jerk burger and combo plate were particularly delicious! The center offers eclectic classes and music. The Executive Director and Founder, Makeda Cheatom, has created a dynamic community and center and is incredibly generous. She gave us a tour of the garden and meditation space, where she grows all of the fresh produce which she uses in her restaurant, including the jackfruit that she used to produce our smoothies. The Worldbeat Center's exterior murals celebrating Egyptian, African, and Indigenous Cultures are absolutely beautiful. The Worldbeat Center is an absolute must-visit destination in Balboa Park and San Diego!
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T J.

Yelp
The African dance class was Amazing! Today the dance teacher taught us afro-brazilian and afro-cuban dance! Our lovely & beautiful dance teacher even gave us eduation about the dance movements we were doing!! The warm up is a workout in itself and much needed for what's to come!. The routines are easy to follow (having rythym helps too), and the drums take over your total being...whether you can follow the routine or not, you will be compelled to move your body and burn calories! Everyone is so supportive and really cheer you on to get a good workout AND again, you really absorb those drums (they make you feel like you are also a professional African dancer, even if it's your first time! Lol). The class is affordable and worth it! Tip those drummers they sound GOOD and play for well over an hr. Did I mention the class was 1 - 1/2 hrs! I will be back! Thank you for a great experience!!
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Sally M.

Yelp
I was here a couple weeks ago to watch Sola Rosa perform. (Sola Rosa is an awesome band from New Zealand; definitely check them out!) We weren't really sure what to expect, but once Sola Rosa was on stage and got people out on the dance floor, we had a great time. They were only on for maybe 1-1.5 hours but were part of a larger show. I noticed some others mentioned they don't serve alcohol here, but there was alcohol at this show. We didn't purchase any, but it was there for us if needed. The facility was a decent size and we had plenty of room to dance. They were recording the show and had it displayed on a large screen as well. There wasn't much of a crowd at the show and we were dancing right in front of the stage, so we didn't really look to the screen. Spragga (from Sola Rosa) mentioned that the sound system there was pretty good even though they did run into some sound problems during the show. Everything sounded great to me! If you go to the Worldbeat Center, be prepared to park on the street (or in one of the nearby Balboa Park lots). Also, incense seems to be always burning there, so be prepared for this very noticeable scent. I could still smell the incense for a couple days after the show (even after showering). The show itself was 5 stars; the facility 3.5 stars. I do appreciate that Worldbeat Center hosted this event and Sola Rosa made it down to SD to close out their world tour here though...so 4 stars it is!
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Sunshine L.

Yelp
Worldbeat Cultural Center is located in Balboa Park. It is mainly a venue for music events, predominantly reggae music. They have classes for drumming, yoga, tai chi; the classes are usually just a few people, from what I have seen. There is a cafe, but it seems to be lacking any business. The place has a lot of potential, but does not live up to it. I agree with the other reviewer who commented on the lack of supervision for children's classes; my feeling is that it is not the safest environment for young children. I am glad this place is here, but overall there is a bad vibe here, I can't quite put my finger on exactly what it is, but the dissonance is strongly felt.
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Carlos V.

Yelp
They have ongoing classes and events all the time. Great vibe great place to open up your mind. Mondays bellydance class is another fun one aswell. Live drummers while learning beginner techniques.
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Svelte S.

Yelp
I came here last night to see my friend perform and was pretty excited cuz I've always wanted to check this place out. The rent a cops here are an absolute joke! They were just sitting around texting and I noticed a lot of the guys flirting with VERY young female patrons. I absolutely cannot believe what I saw last night. For starters, there is NO ventilation and it gets hotter than a sauna in there. On top of that, I'm pretty sure it's all ages - my friends and I are all in our early twenties and we felt ancient being there. No joke, there must have been a few 12 year olds. These kids were so young! And they were messed up on ecstasy! These kids weren't drinking any water and were grinding against each other and it was just...it was so sad/difficult to see. There was one girl who was belligerently out of her mind, wasn't drinking any water, cross eyed, her jaw looked dislocated...I tried informing security so that maybe they could get her outside for some fresh air but no one did anything! I don't know where these 12-15 year old gutter trolls came from, but I won't be coming back here ever again. I wouldn't even come back if you paid me! I hope this event (Scream) gets shut down asap because last night was absolutely disgusting. I can't remember the promoter's name but his underlings were all messed up on ecstasy as well and so hard to communicate with! I wanted water for my friend who was performing and it seriously took over 20 minutes because they were too busy sniffing Vick's VapoRub! Now, I'm no perfect angel and I'll admit I've done my experimentation here and there...but doing drugs and not facing any consequences from what should be responsible adults = low. This event was more ghetto than the underground raves that I used to hit up in downtown Los Angeles. I WISH I COULD GIVE THIS PLACE ZERO STARS.
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Laurel T.

Yelp
I went to see Anthony B this last weekend. After the boozey shit-fest that took place at his last concert at the Belly Up, I was ready for a crazy night. I pm'ed fellow yelper Ace D. to figure out the booze situation at this venue. He informed the of the lack of and I was bit disappointed but nothing a flask and a few beers in the car couldn't handle. We had two tickets and three concert goers so we parked in the adjacent parking lot and walked in to purchase ticket number three before intending to return to car to partake in some intoxication. We had to buy tickets inside and they searched us first. Although we intended to exit and return to the venue, one of my friends decided to turn in her ticket for a wristband. She then could not re-enter the venue upon exiting so there we were, stuck in the world beat center after a mere 3 beers and at least two hours before the wonderful Anthony B. would perform. We made the best of the situation, we ate some ital food, we drank some coffee and then, we sat. Unfortunately, the lack of alcoholic libations makes for a pretty boring crowd. The artwork here is great and I really respect them for being a booze-free and all ages venue. I would return for something mellow like a class or an art show. I don't think I will be coming to another concert here anytime soon.
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Laura K.

Yelp
My organization hosted an event at the World Beat Center, and we will never work with them again. Their staff were unreliable and unprepared, which resulted in a lot of problems during the event that reflected badly on us. Though the space itself is cool, I would highly advise against holding an event there if you are considering it.
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Stephanie H.

Yelp
Worldbeat Center is at the heart of many movements and serves to cultivate peace for all living beings. I would compare this place to the museums of Balboa Park, yet it is so very much more. I love so many things about this place: the lively dance parties, the sustainable garden, the children's program, international school and the charismatic leader's passion for speaking to the rich indigenous history uniting the roots of all people. There is Kombucha on tap which is fresh and delicious. There is a cafe and kitchen open on select days. Also, you can rent the space for events! All generations and cultures are at home here. This is a place for the people. So I consider this a living museum and a place where culture and science collide in the dance of life. From the Earth to the Stars, Worldbeat Center brings wisdom into cultural consideration. As a center of expanding concern the subjects "curated" in this cultural nexus run the gamut from sustainable gardening to astronomy as the history of wisdom is given voice. Peace is a practice and in San Diego, Worldbeat Center keeps the heart beat of unity alive and well situated in this living museum of soul, spirit and sustainable prosperity.
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Bobby S.

Yelp
1st Show here: Went to see a New Zealand Reggae band called Fat Freddy's Drop back in January I think?, Great band! Check them out and also Shapeshifter from NZ they are amazing! It was packed- It was an all ages show and there was NO ALCOHOL being served. The avg age group was probably 16- 23 and the occasional family with there kids. Keep in mind this was a Saturday night show and past 9pm. I want to say good things about this place but after a hard week work I want to go out enjoy some nice music with my girlfriend and be able to enjoy a Beer or so to relax. The lack of alcohol being served makes me feel like I am at a Church Youth center or something- and I am not religious. Being in my 30's and enjoying a nice Mash Up of the dance station is what I was after and it was not delivered by venue and lack of energy in the crowd as well. This place is pretty big and its hard to get the energy up in this place unless it is packed. I am sure the under 21's loved it, maybe. Either way I will take a pass. 2nd show was for a Drum and Bass show last Friday in Feb. Got there at 10pm and it was empty and there was literally 20 rent a cops that where the opposite of chill. They where frothing at the mouth to pat me down at the empty door as I finished my cigarette before entering made the place seem as uninviting as possible. So yeah he patted me down had me empty my pockets etc. fine cool what ever. Next My girl friend went in and there was a butch looking rent a cop who went to school on her feeling up her boobs and everything- super hectic for sure! Now remember her and I are clean cut 30 somethings w 9-5's into some nice Drum and Bass, not some Hippie tweaker ally way scum. Butch Rent a cop emptied my girl friend's purse and she had pepper spray in it, so out it goes and almost out into the trash but my GF asked if she could have the "security" hold it somewhere. They where nice enough to hold it for her, but after we left at last call (130ish?) said rent a cop was no where to be seen and so was my GF's pepper spray. Drum and Bass Djs with MC's was decent. Had Ed Rush and Optical on the stage mashing up the basslines proper. Good energy later in the night. Fun for sure. SUMMARY: This place is cool if you are under age for all ages shows and do not like alcohol. I like how they support world culture and try to bring that flavor to San Diego which is great. So if you find an event here that you like assume it will be NO ALCOHOL served unless noted on there on web site and go in with an open mind. This is place is cool but only 3 stars because it is not as inviting and warm of a venue as I would like. I am more of a Bar Dynamite vibe kind of guy. Hope that helps you guys out. Big Up San Diego Junglists!
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Sarah K.

Yelp
Three years of living in San Diego and two previous visits to San Diego and not once had we been here. This place is tiny but has so many colorful things to see. Additionally they have an area where they serve drinks together with events which take place. They have two birds outside which talk away Which was a big plus for my daughter together with the drumming which was going on.
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Mutiso F.

Yelp
Makeda.....YOU ARE AWESOME LIKE YOU'RE FOOD! Veggies straight outta the garden man! Anytime I return to SD I will make sure to stop in and get full off awesome food, convo and souvenirs. I hate that I missed the drumming event that was happening on the day I was leaving. GO! ...you won't be disappointed!
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Christine M.

Yelp
Ive been here a few times a couple years ago and I enjoyed it. They hold spoken word events here from local artists and I'm always left in thought after each show. It has been years since Ive been in the spoken word scene and knew of events but it makes me reminiscent of those times. The site is small and you sit on folded chairs but otherwise it's a great little venue, which I feel is fitting for shows like these. Parking isnt bad, especially during the evening and though the site is small, you dont feel claustrophobic. It attracts very diverse, open-minded and chill as hell people so everytime I've come Ive always met super friendly people. If and when I ever have the time and they still hold spoken word events, Ill definitely bring my husband to a show. But then again, it's just my opinion..

April H.

Yelp
I am really not sure about kids summer camp. It is really hard to contact with them. ones I registered but I canceled later. So disappointed...No one pick up phone call, no reply by email and on the chat, disconnected middle of conversation all that time.......
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Will K.

Yelp
In the park? Stop by this very cool building: actually, not a building at all, but a re-purposed water container: it literally used to hold over 1 million gallons of water. Many different things happen at this venue, however, they've got a great little coffee/snack bar and are very willing to show off the facility.
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Caliph A.

Yelp
This place is legendary and very well known in the communities of people who are really about positive change and enlightenment. THE WORLD BEAT CULTURAL CENTER has been around for decades and there is a reason that is he case. When you do good and are about helping others out deserve to be around for a long time. JESSIE MARIE is great. The entire staff are worthy of mention. However if particular noteworthiness is NANA. This Brotha is BAD!! (I of course mean "bad" as in "good." ) He actually was kind enough to provide the Broom for the our Wedding Ceremony (you know...the broom that you jump over; hence the term "jumping the broom") and if this were a review of NANA alone...5 stars no doubt as he is a stand up, high quality artist, educator and person. As it stands this is a WORLD BEAT review and while not not as stellar as Nana in and of itself WORLD BEAT is still quality. THE preeminent CENTER and place for music, expression and cultural education in the city of San Diego...WORLD BEAT.
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Heru-amun P.

Yelp
This is how I will design my spaceship when its time time to fly home to Marz and live with my ancestors... The outside art is a gift from none other than Air Mike, and recalls the inside of an Ancient Egyptian pyramid and the High Science that goes along with that... This is more than an event center; this is a landmark for all cultures to evolve and revolve... A huge amount of programs designed for the children and usually free... A safe environment that welcomes and embraces diversity and insures tolerance.. ThANKH you Sister Makeda for your livication to the community.. Also check out the Prophet Vegetarian cafe inside and come watch BlackHeart Warriors launch into some heavy soundsystem vibez....
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Craig S.

Yelp
Stumbled upon this african artist oasis while having lunch in Balboa Park. What an incredible space! The murals are expansive and luring. Walking through the interior, they serve vegan/vegetarian noshes and a swell selection of Kombucha on tap and herbal teas. GREAT VIBE! The stage looks very pro and now is on my radar as a must see live music venue. I think i'm gonna sign up for one of their african drum classes!
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Helen T.

Yelp
I don't know what it's like in the day time, but I came here to watch a concert and it was pretty cool. I liked how small the venue was, but big enough for a good-sized crowd. I don't know what else they provide here, but to be honest it didn't seem like much. I'm only rating this place based on my experience at a small gig. I had a great time here, which is why I gave it 4 stars. Plus they have free parking across the street! Overall, I thought that this was a pretty good venue for artists who are just starting out or aren't too big yet.
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Julie J.

Yelp
such a funky little spot. The back kitchen is really working it pumping out food. healthy & clean food in medium sized portions. the kombucha on tap is great and fun atmosphere watching classes/music while eating.
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scott p.

Yelp
I came to a rave here and it was very well managed. I knew the people who had organized the event and I quizzed them about their interaction with the management- everything thing went smoothly. It's def. a DIY vibe- I heard snarky comments about "being at a high school dance" but you know what, I'd come to see a million events here before I'd go a single time to a gaslamp douche bag factory. DIY FOREVER. Personally, I would consider doing an event here- seems like the easiest way to get a venue in Balboa Park. The lack of air conditioning would make it hot in the summer time.
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Virginia L.

Yelp
Great little oasis in Balboa Park to relax, do some yoga and grab some great food! The peanut coconut curry was amazing, and the coffee is always great! Stop by and check it out!
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Mel M.

Yelp
Watched Etana & Morgan Heritage. Rare to be so close to Carribean artist such as these two of their caliber at an intimate venue. The Ginger Beer was just as lovely
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Nicole G.

Yelp
After years of living in San Diego, I finally had the opportunity to attend an event here. The center itself is nice enough, cozy, decorated with a good dance floor and food vending area -- although it does feel like you stepped into a live graffiti mural -- because everything, I mean everything is painted. Interesting, definitely. Not my first choice for a show because things got crowded towards the end and warm to boot, but for someplace that aims to be sustainable, arty, and green minded, I've got to hand it to them because SD could use more places like these.
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Angel F.

Yelp
I was interested in the drumming and dance classes. I've have not been able to partake in any classes here because my calls and emails were never returned. Over the summer the offered a kids camp. Same deal, multiple calls and emails with no response. On the first day of camp I took my kids anyway and there was room for them. They really enjoyed playing and dancing, but don't go expecting a bunch of communication from the leaders. I'd even say, don't send your kids unless they are smart enough to not run off with strangers cause supervision or a check out procedure is lacking. Twice I picked up my kids and did not see an adult. There were several older kids, including one of my own, who were unofficial camp leaders. If she wasn't there to look out fr her siblings I would not send them. No one got hurt and they had a good time, so guess that's what matters. At the end of camp they had a mini-recital to show what they learned. It was hot as a sweatbox.
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Anna B.

Yelp
SO unique! An oasis of multicultural embrace, art and expression. I just wish they had even more functions :-)
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Oren P.

Yelp
Popular venue for all sort of cultural classes and events. Offers a monthly Noche Cubana (usually on a Friday) with live band for Cuban/casino/salsa dancing.
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Michael S.

Yelp
This place is a absolute joke! Went there two weeks ago to volunteer my time for the children garden center. I figured it would be very beneficial for my daughter and I to experience our culture together and to learn horticultural techniques. Two weeks later I hear absolutely nothing, so I took the initiative to call them the day before to confirm our meeting. The director had the nerve to insinuate that I was being emotional because I expressed to her the lack of professionalism on her part. I'm looking for another place to have our cultural experience!
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Janette B.

Yelp
Who can take an organization seriously when they do not return phone calls or reply to emails? ! They offer all these classes and events, but if you have a question about something, forget about it- no one is gonna return your call or email
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Marissa G.

Yelp
World beat center sponsors the tribute to the reggae legends(bobfest) this year was a total disappointment. The venue it was held at this year looked like a small warehouse off the pier...i do not know why it wasn't held at the sports arena like it usually is but never again will i attend another event. It sooo was not worth the 70$ per ticket we paid. The venue was small there was no where to sit besides a couple of folded chairs they had randomly on the side. You couldn't even enjoy a beer along with the music!!! They had it blocked off in the back where you had to stand and drink it before you could go anywhere! Okay the worse part was the food!!!! They had someone provide homemade food like a potluck gross! Ohhh and i almost forgot! Since it is reggae you couldn't even smoke they claimed that the DEA was there and anyone caught smoking would be arrested. How lame is that? Of course everyone still did smoke...the fact that they had security up everyones ass was annoying! This was a complete waste of money and time!