Bill Walton didn’t do anything halfway. With Bill, basketball was theater. Every game was an occasion, every possession a story, and every night something worth showing up for. Music was no different. As one of the Grateful Dead’s most legendary fans, Bill completely immersed himself: the shows, the dancing, the travel, the records that became the soundtrack to his life. He had a way of turning the notch up on everything, making the ordinary feel bigger, brighter, and more alive. He didn’t just live in San Diego. He was San Diego, tie-dye and all. This November 5-7, we honor Bill by spending the weekend the way he would: music, hoops, tie-dye as far as the eye can see, and the city he called home.

Bill was a Hall of Fame champion, but San Diego knew him as a devoted dad, cyclist, Deadhead, philanthropist, and friend. His tie-dye reflected the way he lived: with joy, curiosity, generosity, and an open heart. So on November 6, wear your tie-dye. Ride your bike. Play your favorite album. Talk to a stranger. Bury your feet in the sand. Open your arms wide. Be grateful for this life. Because to live a little more freely, love a little more openly, and bring a little more color into the world is to celebrate Bill.

Celebrate Bill’s love of music and the Grateful Dead with the Electric Waste Band at the Belly Up in Solana Beach. Come dressed in tie-dye for an evening of music, memories, and good vibes. Tickets are a $45 donation, with all proceeds benefiting the Bill Walton Foundation.

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Bill Walton’s impact extended far beyond the court. Affectionately known as “Mr. San Diego,” the Helix High School graduate was an NBA Hall of Famer, broadcaster, philanthropist, and passionate champion of community service. His positivity, humility, and love for San Diego left a lasting legacy. Donate blood in honor of Bill on what would have been his 74th birthday at the 3rd Annual Bill Walton Memorial Blood Drive.All donors will receive a one-of-a-kind Tie-dye T-shirt.

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The inaugural National University Bill Walton Classic celebrates college basketball in the city that shaped one of the game's most unforgettable legends. Join us at Pechanga Arena on Saturday, November 7, for a college hoops doubleheader featuring Colorado vs. San Diego State in the men’s game and  USD vs. UC San Diego in the women’s game.

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Letters to Bill

Presented By

Bill Walton lived a life that could never be contained in a single story.

So we made a space for the people who knew him to help tell it.

Letters to Bill is a place to share your memories, laughs, lessons, and moments with Bill. Whether you knew him for decades or shared just one unforgettable encounter, we’d love to hear what Bill meant to you and the mark he left on your life.

Share your letter, memory, or story below.

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