After a three-year absence, Women of Southeast brought African American Heritage Night back to Petco Park — celebrating the history, culture, and contributions of San Diego's African American community alongside the San Diego Padres.
African American Heritage Night made its long-awaited return to Petco Park in 2026, drawing a sold-out crowd of more than 1,200 people. Organized by Women of Southeast in partnership with the San Diego Padres, the celebration honored the history and ongoing contributions of San Diego's African American community with performances, community recognitions, and entertainment throughout the night — capped off by a Padres win.
"This started as a Facebook post... and became an event within three months." — Shatia Moore, President, Women of Southeast
What began as a single idea grew, in a matter of months, into one of the largest community celebrations Southeast San Diego has seen in years — a testament to what collective action and community partnership can accomplish.
What became African American Heritage Night's return started as a single post from Women of Southeast — a call to bring the celebration back to Southeast San Diego.
Women of Southeast partnered directly with the San Diego Padres to bring the celebration back to Petco Park after a three-year absence.
In just three months, the vision became reality: a full night of performances, community recognitions, and entertainment at Petco Park.
More than 1,200 people filled Petco Park for the celebration's return — and the Padres closed out the night with a win.
42 moments from the night — performances, recognitions, and the community dancing together at Gallagher Square. The full professional gallery from Cali Camera Photography is linked below.
Event highlight videos are being compiled and will be embedded here once footage is finalized. If you have video (Padres broadcast, social clips, or personal footage) you'd like featured, send it our way.
Send us your finalized sponsor and partner list for this event and we'll build out full recognition tiles here — logos, links, and tier placement.
Coverage of the sold-out return of Heritage Night, including reflections from Women of Southeast President Shatia Moore.
Professional event photography from the evening's celebration at Petco Park.
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