Welcome to U.P.S.E.S.
19,717 make up San Diego's
Portuguese community
We Support The Present
San Diego’s Portuguese community today is made up of immigrants from the Azores, Madeira, and mainland Portugal going back five generations in some cases. As Portuguese, we have a natural pride in our traditions and in the global accomplishments of our ancestors.
We strive to honor those who have come before us, preserve our traditions and customs, and instill in our youth the spirit of devotion to the Espirito Santo, so our community will go forward in faith and tradition, generation after generation.
Upcoming Events
Where Community, Commitment, and Collaboration Connect.
Shop Our Local Portuguese Market
Located at the back of our Portuguese Hall, The Portuguese Market is your source for imported Portuguese food. Shop online 24/7.
FESTA 2025
As Portuguese, we have a natural pride in our traditions and in the global accomplishments of our ancestors. Support Festa 2025 & learn more!
Bingo Every Thursday Night
Come join us for Bingo at the U.P.S.E.S. Hall on Thursday nights. Bring your friends and family (must be 18 years of age to play) for a night of fun games! Doors open at 4pm. Learn More.
Explore Our Venue
Our historical venue combines rich Portuguese heritage with modern conveniences, offering a unique setting for any event. Call us for more information and book your next event today!
Watch Video
Our Venue
Vision
Values
Celebrate, Gather, Enjoy. Repeat.
The UPSES Halls Venue is a cherished part of San Diego’s Portuguese community, offering versatile and elegant spaces for every occasion. From weddings to corporate functions, our venue reflects a rich history while providing modern amenities to bring your vision to life.
- Banquet Room: Capacity of 375, customizable for all events.
- Chapel: Historic, intimate setting for weddings and vow renewals.
- Bar: Nautical-themed, perfect for adult gatherings.
- Kitchen: Spacious, full-sized commercial kitchen to support any event.
Whether you’re hosting a family celebration or a large-scale event, we have the perfect setting to make your occasion extraordinary.
What Makes Us Unique:
Years of Serving the Community
Historic, Authentic Portuguese Architecture
volunteers
Purpose, Values & Goals
- Encourage religious and civic activities.
- Promote, further and support the welfare of the community.
- Foster sociability and develop a united spirit among the people of the community.
Fuelling Our Campaigns
We help donors make safe and easy US tax-deductible donations to vetted, locally-driven organizations around San Diego. California incorporates federal law (IRC Sec. 170), as of California’s current federal conformity date , relating to the charitable contribution deduction. ( Sec. 17201, Rev. & Tax. Code ; Sec. 17275.5, Rev. & Tax. Code ) Under IRC Sec. 170, as incorporated, contributions to qualified nonprofit charitable organizations, governmental entities, and conservation projects are deductible from adjusted gross income, subject to specified limitations, including the limitation on the charitable mileage deduction amount.
A Historic Event Venue in San Diego
Virtual Tour
Experience the charm and history of the UPSES Hall! Take a guided tour of our Banquet Room, Chapel, Bar, and Grand Ballroom to envision your next special event in this unique and culturally rich venue.
[Watch] The Venue Video Tour: Portuguese Hall – San Diego, CA
Banquet Room
The Grand Ballroom is the crown jewel of our venue, featuring rich wood paneling, original vintage hardwood floors, vaulted ceilings, and modern lighting. Whether you're hosting a wedding, business function, or celebration, this space can be fully customized to reflect your vision.
- Capacity: Up to 375 guests
- Customizable Layout: Soundproof partitions allow the space to be divided into three separate rooms (125 guests each)
- Amenities: Multiple entrances, utilities, audio-visual hook-ups, and a main stage for entertainment
- State-of-the-Art Kitchen Access: Perfect for catering and large events
Contact Us: Inquire About the Banquet Room
Chapel
Built in 1922, the UPSES Chapel is a stunning replica of the chapels found on the island of Terceira, Azores. With a design inspired by traditional Portuguese maritime chapels, this intimate setting is ideal for small weddings, vow renewals, and religious ceremonies.
- Perfect for: Unique and intimate ceremonies
- Historic Significance: Home to the Crown of the Holy Spirit during Festa do Espirito Santo celebrations
- Limited Availability: Bookings available, but space is limited.
Contact Us: Inquire About the Chapel
Bar & Kitchen
Entertain & Dine with Ease
Our nautical-themed bar and full-sized commercial kitchen make hosting effortless.
- Bar: Seats 75, flat-screen TVs, perfect for private parties (21+ only).
- Kitchen: Fully equipped for catering or DIY meal prep.
What People Say About Our Community
We value your feedback!
Please leave us a review by following the links below.
“Great venue. Went for luncheon a celebration of life. Perfect location near shelter island in San Diego.”
Ann Peterson
“I am a regular here for events. Two event spaces, a large and a small. The large has a stage, chandeliers, and wall lighting all dimmable to make fit any mood and can be set up for simplicity or extravagance!”
Tony Olson
“Attended a wedding reception, good parking on site, large reception room, very clean, large stage and ample dance floor. It is the kind of room you could make your own with decorations that suit your event. Lots or none. Fun or fancy, up to you. Enjoy!”
Jane Bryan
“This is a great venue for a smallish meeting, party or social event. I've attended several meetings there. It's a comfortable hall with good seating, A/V equipment, a stage and catering facilities. They also do lots of community events and dinners related to the Portuguese community. Next door is the newly restored tiny Portuguese chapel. The staff are friendly and accommodating, too. Definitely recommend for a meeting or social gathering!.”
