Keep Your Eyes Peeled for Glass Hearts Starting this Saturday

Beginning this Saturday, February 7th, Hearts of Carlsbad Village once again invites residents and visitors to spend time downtown while searching for beautifully handcrafted glass hearts hidden throughout the Village. More than an event, it is a celebration of the people, places, and everyday moments that make this coastal downtown so special. All new format - read details below:

Hearts of Carlsbad Village first began six years ago when the Carlsbad Village Association wanted to encourage people to return to Carlsbad Village as businesses struggled following the pandemic. That first year, only 50 hearts, created by Barrio Glassworks, were hidden. It was so popular that it officially became an annual event and people quickly embraced the tradition of searching for custom blown glass hearts created by Barrio Glassworks. What started as a small gesture of encouragement has grown into one of the Village’s most meaningful annual events.

Now in its fifth official year as Hearts of Carlsbad Village, the event has been thoughtfully reimagined after listening closely to feedback from past participants. This updated approach places less emphasis on rushing and more on enjoying the experience of being in the Village, supporting local businesses, and creating lasting memories along the way.

Explore the Village

Saturday, February 7 through Friday, February 13 | 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily

Over the course of one week, a total of 250 handcrafted glass hearts, approximately 35 per day, will be hidden in plain sight during standard business hours across Carlsbad Village. You may discover one while browsing a favorite shop, visiting somewhere new, enjoying lunch, or meeting a friend for coffee.

Take a stroll through downtown, enjoy a leisurely lunch, or meet a friend for a mid-afternoon coffee. Turn your lunch break into a visit to the Village or set aside time for an unhurried afternoon of shopping and dining. The experience is intentionally relaxed, allowing space to slow down, look around, and appreciate everything the Village has to offer.

A boundary map with instructions is now available on the Hearts of Carlsbad Village landing page to help guide participants while preserving the excitement of discovery.

Additional Event Updates

The response from the community has been incredibly strong, with several event opportunities reaching capacity within hours.

Registration for the Scavenger Hunt opened at 10 a.m. on January 26 and closed at 6:31 p.m. that same day; all 265 cards were claimed during those eight hours.

The community blood drive is also fully booked. The enthusiasm surrounding both opportunities is a meaningful reflection of the generosity and spirit that continue to define Carlsbad Village.

Barrio Glassworks will be holding its much loved Seconds Sales on their patio at 3060 Roosevelt St. from 10am to 4pm on Saturday, February 14th with live demos throughout the day. Come find a one-of-a-kind treasure. Glass hearts will also be on sale; be sure to ask for the Local's Discount! Don't forget to check out their demos daily as it is a sight to behold!

From Our Hearts to Yours

At its core, Hearts of Carlsbad Village is about more than finding a glass keepsake. It is about connection. It is about stepping into a local business and being greeted with a smile, discovering a new favorite place, and experiencing the warmth that makes this community feel like home.

Beginning Saturday, we invite you to make time for the Village. Take a walk, enjoy lunch, grab a coffee, browse the shops, and linger a little longer than usual.