2024 Southern California Events Festivals & Fairs

Your Guide to Southern California Events

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Some of the most exciting events in Southern California only come around once a year. Every month, you can find a fair, festival, or activity that makes a great day trip. This calendar provides information on annual events from Los Angeles to San Diego. Find fun things to do this weekend with family and friends.

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2024 Free Entrance Days in the National Parks
Monday, November 11 – Veterans Day

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Search Events by Month

January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December

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January 2024 Events

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L.A. Zoo Lights: Animals Aglow

L.A. Zoo Lights: Animals Aglow is the Los Angeles Zoo’s all-new wintertime attraction. It will transform its grounds into an immersive landscape filled with spectacular lantern sculptures of animals among blooming flowers, towering trees, and more.

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K-PLAY! FEST

There are two exciting days of K-pop fandom at the K-PLAY! The organizers of ANIME Impulse, Asian American Expo, KTOWN Night Market, Sneaker Expo, and The Eat Show presented FEST. The event will occur at the Fairplex; tickets are available at www.kplayfest.com/tickets. Experience the ultimate K-Pop celebration

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Whale Watching

(January – March) View gray whales heading down the coast to Baja, California—discounts, where to view from shore. Peak whale watching season is January and February along the Southern California coast.

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Palm Springs Tram

(Year-Round) The Palm Springs Tramway takes visitors from the hot desert floor to the cold San Jacinto mountains. Take an exciting trip on the world’s largest rotating tramcars with up to 80 passengers.

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Goat Hill Junction

(Third weekend of the month) Fairview Park free train rides. Kids and adults love riding these little trains around Fairview Park in Costa Mesa. Ride as many times as you like for free.

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Southern California February Events

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Valentine’s Day Ideas for Southern California

Southern California offers an almost unlimited selection of fun and affordable things to do on Valentine’s Day. Valentine’s Day is on Wednesday this year.

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 Los Angeles Travel and Adventure Show

Learn about travel destinations in California and around the globe. Win trips and free giveaways: vacation destinations, show-only discounts, contests, and live entertainment. The Los Angeles Travel and Adventure Show is where to start if you plan to travel.

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OC Tet Festival at  Centennial Park Santa Ana

 The OC Tet Festival marks the beginning of the new year and is the most crucial celebration in the Vietnamese-American community. This Lunar New Year marks a time of renewal, rejuvenation, and remembering our loved ones and ancestors. Free Admission

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Union of Vietnamese Students Tet Festival

This Tet Festival is held at the Orange County Fairgrounds and competes with the Tet Festival in Santa Ana. Vietnamese food and entertainment all weekend long. 

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Harbor Breeze Valentine Cruise

Harbor Breeze in Long Beach offers a Valentine’s Celebration Cruise aboard the Luxury Yacht Sir Winston. Enjoy an excellent live Sax Player, Champagne Greeting, and Appetizers upon Boarding.

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Universal Studios Discount

Save over $59.00 on select dates. Get ready for the ultimate Hollywood movie experience! Universal Studios Hollywood has a world of fun-filled adventures the whole family will love.

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Riverside Fair and Date Festival

Pageants, rides, and attractions highlight this annual fair. The Fair started as a celebration of the annual date harvest. Today, the date festival is one of the most significant events in the Inland Empire. The crowning of the Date Festival Queen and monster truck racing are all part of the fun.

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San Diego Zoo Safari Park

1800-plus acres of exotic animals and botanical gardens carved out of the picturesque San Pasqual Valley’s hills and canyons outside Escondido, California.

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March 2024  Southern California Events

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Carlsbad Flower Fields Fields

The Carlsbad Flower Fields highlights include a miniature rose garden, a sweet pea maze, the American Flag of Flowers, a 1,500-square-foot poinsettia display, and acres of beautiful flowers. Tickets must be purchased in advance, or can you see the flower fields for free?

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Conscious Market on Third Street Promenade

Downtown Santa Monica, Inc. is excited to announce that Conscious Market is returning to the Third Street Promenade on Saturday, March 2, from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. It will showcase a variety of elevated and sustainable brands and products from over 40 local businesses with a focus on zero waste and self-care.

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Dark Sky Festival Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park hosts a multiple-day event every spring, inviting visitors to learn about space. The event features ranger programs, guest speakers from NASA, and hands-on activities. Death Valley National Park is rated as a Gold Tier Dark Sky Park, with the highest darkness rating.

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Dana Point Festival of Whales

The Dana Point Whale Festival is one of Southern California’s largest whale celebrations. Visitors come from all over Southern California to celebrate the annual migration of gray whales from Alaska to Mexico. This fun-filled event draws thousands of visitors to Dana Point Harbor each year.

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Solvang Century Cycling Event

The Solvang Century is a yearly 100-mile cycling event in and around Solvang and the Santa Ynez Valley. The event has a limit of 1000 riders. Even if you are not a cyclist, March is an excellent time to visit Solvang before the summer vacation crowd arrives.

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Pacific Coast Sportfishing Travel and Outdoors Show

The Pacific Coast Sportfishing Travel and Outdoors Show will be held at the Orange County Fairgrounds in Costa Mesa, CA. With over 500 booths, the show will offer the best in fishing, boats, travel, and outdoor gear. There will also be many family activities, a free kids’ trout pond, live bands, and delicious food. Take advantage of this exciting event!

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Ventura Harbor Mermaid Month

Ventura Harbor Village is a popular seaside attraction that brings visitors worldwide together to celebrate the 9th Annual March Mermaid Month. Enjoy various family-friendly activities with a sea theme, including mermaid craft stations, interactive booths, chalk art displays, and even a Mermaid Dance Party (taking place on March 16 only). You can also enjoy live entertainment, a free kids’ mermaid coloring activity table at the Mermaid Gallery, and much more!

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Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve

(Mid-March- Mid-April) The reserve expects the best bloom from mid-March through April. Poppies open mid-morning and curl up in the late afternoon if it’s cold, so check the weather forecast before visiting the Poppy Fields.

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South Bay Orchid Society Show/Sale

The Orchis Show showcases dozens of blooming orchids from various genera, including species and hybrids. They are grown to perfection by hobbyists who are members of the society, as well as by local California commercial growers, nurseries, and well-known international vendors.

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Winter Winter Nationals Pomona

In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip will sponsor one of NHRA’s most historic races, the Winternationals. Be prepared for a loud and wild event—don’t forget your earplugs!

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Swallows Day Mission San Juan Capistrano

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO  The mission is to celebrate the swallows’ return from their winter home in Argentina. The 63rd Annual Swallows Day Parade and Mercado Street Fair will be held in March 2024.

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April Events, Shows, and Activities

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Southern California Wildflower Super Bloom 2025

From early March through May, wildflowers will sprout across Southern California. Some of the best places to view wildflowers are:

• Anza Borrego Desert State Park
• Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve
• Palos Verdes Peninsula
• Joshua Tree National Park
• Quail Hill and Sandy Canyon in Irvine
• Walker Canyon, north of Lake Elsinore
• Diamond Valley Lake in Hemet
  

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Renaissance Faire Irwindale

Games, rides, arts and crafts, food, music, and dance, recreating the celebratory spring day in 1574. Immerse yourself in a village of over 1,200 costumed performers and artisans, including dazzling acrobats, internationally acclaimed musicians, and entertainers, juggling jokers and jesters, willful wenches, and newly arrived, jousting knights who are ready to celebrate. Event Website.

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Carlsbad Flower Fields

(Open through Mother’s Day) Carlsbad Flower Fields are easy to spot along the San Diego freeway. The flowers bloomed in the hills above the Pacific Ocean for nearly fifty years.

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O.C. Spring Home & Garden Show

The garden show is free to attend, but parking is paid. At the Anaheim Convention Center, you can discover the latest trends in home improvement, interior design, and landscaping. You can also attend informative seminars and demos to enhance your home’s beauty and value.

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Peacock Day LA Arboretum

(Saturday, April 20, from 9 am to 2 pm) Come and join us at the L.A. Arboretum for Peacock Day, a fun-filled event for the whole family. You’ll have the chance to participate in various activities and events such as family crafts, face painting, photo opportunities, peacock talks, library storytime, and exploration of the curiosity cart. Foodies will be delighted to know that the Peacock Cafe and Bar will be open, and there will also be food trucks.

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CicLAvia – Venice Blvd

The public is invited to a one-of-a-kind experience, a unique pop-up park for a day. Whether you prefer walking, jogging, biking, roller skating, or simply spectating, CicLAvia – Venice Blvd connects Palms, Mar Vista, and Venice Beach, offering a 5.75-mile temporary park for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy. The event is always free, and participants can show up anywhere along the route at any time to explore the west side of the Venice Blvd corridor and take advantage of the open streets.

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OSI Presents “Party at the Market”

Join us in Woodland Hills, California, for ‘OSI Presents: At the Market’ – an exciting farmer’s market event that’s more than just a party; it’s a movement! Admission is completely free for all guests who RSVP. You’ll have access to the freshest, organic produce on us. Enjoy dancing to the beats of Utopia’s KG Superstar and DJ Jerry Flores, and experience an unforgettable extravaganza!

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Pizza City Fest Los Angeles

Pizza City Fest, a delicious way to give back, brings together Southern California’s best pizza makers for a two-day event at L.A. LIVE. Attendees can taste pizza, watch live demos, and attend panel discussions with culinary experts. The best part? A portion of all tickets benefits our charitable partner, which provides culinary, job, and life skills to more than 25,000 middle and high school students.

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Morro Bay Kite Festival

Come and join the excitement at Morro Bay Kite Festival, where kite enthusiasts of all ages gather to relish the legendary winds of the coastal town. You will discover one of the most enjoyable free events on the Central Coast at the Morro Bay Kite Festival! The festival is hosted on the beach just north of Morro Rock, where you can witness kites of every size and color soaring high in the abundant wind.

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Celebrate Earth Day at Birch Aquarium

This event features an hourly parade, people-powered music, and interactive stations demonstrating collective action toward tackling our planet’s greatest climate challenges.

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Fallbrook Avocado Festival

The Fallbrook Avocado Festival is a fun family event. Plan on arriving early; over 50,000 visitors will attend. Enjoy arts and crafts, farmers’ markets, food courts, live entertainment, guacamole contests, and children’s activities.

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Aquarium of the Pacific Long Beach

Indoor and outdoor attractions are now open. View sea creatures from Southern California, Northern Pacific, and Tropical Pacific together. Kids and adults will love the aquarium’s touch tanks and be amazed by Shark Lagoon and the Penguin Habitat. Discount available –

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San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park

The San Diego Zoo and San Diego Safari Park are now open. One, and two-day passes are available along with hotel packages.

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May Events Southern California Events

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LA County Fair

The LA County Fair is the largest in the nation and offers an eclectic mix of world-class concerts, interactive exhibits, food, shopping, carnival rides, and a lineup of arts and crafts. Discount Tickets Available.

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Top Ten Memorial Day Weekend Things to Do

Memorial Day weekend starts summer in Southern California, even though the official first summer day is in mid-June: festivals, theme parks, kid’s activities, road trip ideas, and places to camp.

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Fleet Week San Pedro, California

(Memorial Day Weekend) LA Fleet Week® is an annual, multi-day celebration of our nation’s Sea Services held on the L.A. Waterfront at the Port of Los Angeles over the extended Memorial Day Weekend. The event features ship tours, military displays, live entertainment, and food vendors, providing lots of fun for the entire family. And best of all, the weekend event is FREE to the general public!

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Garden Grove Strawberry Festival

This year, the Garden Grove Strawberry Festival’s 63rd Annual Festival will be held Memorial Day Weekend at the Village Green Park at Euclid and Main Street. Our Theme is Celebrating Kindness.

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Fiesta Hermosa

Fiesta Hermosa is a three-day festival held over Memorial Day weekend and then again on Labor Day weekend. It is billed as the largest arts & crafts fair in Southern California. The festival takes place on and around the pier in downtown Hermosa Beach.

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Adventure at Campland & Mission Bay R.V. Resort

Campland offers a variety of activities, such as watersports rentals, including kayaking and paddleboarding, pickleball competitions, arts and crafts sessions for kids, and delicious food at the Campland Cantina. On the other hand, Mission Bay R.V. Resort provides a peaceful environment and has 147 spacious new campsites. Whether you plan to camp overnight and enjoy all the activities or stop by for a day of beach fun and delicious food, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

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123 Farm Lavender Festival

(May 3, July 31, 2024) Southern California’s largest lavender festival is held on the grounds of Highland Springs Ranch and Inn, Cherry Valley, California. Walk through acres of blooming lavender plants, marketplace, hayrides, and lavender-inspired food. The lavender festival this year has new hours of 5-10 pm. Enjoy the lavender fields in the late afternoon to early evening.

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Mother’s Day Events: Where To Take Mom

Mother’s Day is a special occasion in Southern California for spending quality time with family, friends, and especially mom. Many options are available, such as restaurants, wineries, attractions, and destinations that offer special events on this day. Whatever you decide to do, remember that the most important thing is to show your mom how much you love and appreciate her.

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Renaissance Faire Irwindale

Enjoy 16th-century games, rides, arts, crafts, food, music, and dance, recreating the celebratory spring day in 1574 when the world arrived to entertain Queen Elizabeth in the English Seaport Deptford. The admission price includes all entertainment.

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Temecula Valley Balloon & Wine Festival

Live entertainment, hot air balloon flights, wine tasting, food, and arts and crafts booths. Wine tastings from Temecula Valley wineries. Balloon Glow after sunset. Lake Skinner Park.

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Fountain Valley Crawfish Festival

The Crawfish Festival serves succulent scores of seasoned Cajun crustaceans prepared to mouth-watering perfection in the world’s most giant crawfish pots. But there’s much more to do here than crawfish — savor New Orleans-style dishes like chicory coffee and beignets and dance to Cajun & zydeco tunes.

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OC Greek Festival

The Festival is held at St. John’s Greek Orthodox Church in Anaheim. There is an outdoor marketplace and ‘Zorba’s Kids Zone with carnival rides and games. Food booths will sell delicious Gyros, Feta Fries, Loucanico, and sweet Greek pastries such as Baklava, Kataifi, Melomakarona, and Chocolate Trigona.

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California Strawberry Festival Oxnard

The festival is held during peak season and celebrates everything strawberry. Visitors enjoy delicious berry delicacies, including strawberry beer and fresh-picked, chocolate-dipped, glazed, and powdered strawberries.

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June Events

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San Diego County Fair

The San Diego County Fair takes place at the Del Mar Fairgrounds from mid-June through the Fourth of July weekend every year. The fair offers a mix of traditional and contemporary games and rides, and its lively midway with sparkling lights and vibrant sounds entices numerous visitors from Southern California to bask in the enchanting summertime atmosphere.

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Electrify Expo Long Beach

The expo will occur at the Long Beach Convention Center on June 1-2, 2024. With over 1 million square feet of outdoor space, you can test-drive and ride the latest electric cars, trucks, motorcycles, e-bikes, e-scooters, and more from top brands such as Tesla, Ford, Kia, and others.

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New West Summerfest, Moorpark, California

Enjoy an unforgettable evening of music, delectable food, and delightful company in a picturesque setting. Enjoy the iconic hits of Jason Scheff, the renowned lead vocalist of the legendary Chicago band, and his exceptional bandmates. The musical extravaganza continues with the country tunes of Geyer’sevon Geyer’s band and the classical delights performed by New West Symphony orchestra members. Summerfest is a music event you want to attend.

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Imaginarium Lakewood

(Lakewood Center, now through Sunday, August )Experience the all-new “Where Light Meets Magic” at Imaginarium, an interactive light exhibit at Lakewood Center. This spectacular event is open for a limited time until Sunday, August 4. Guests of all ages are welcome to enter a mesmerizing world where light comes to life through immersive displays that will ignite your imagination and enchant your senses.

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Brea Summer Festival

The Brea Summer Festival starts the summer season at St. Angela Merici School, 575 S. Walnut Ave, Brea, CA. It is the largest festival in North Orange County and offers free concerts on all three nights.

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Pismo Beach Classic Car Show

The show is scheduled to run from May 31st to June 2nd, 2024. The Pismo Beach Classic Car Show is back for another year, bringing chrome, engines, and the sweet smell of nostalgia. It’s a family-friendly event with live music, vendors, and a charity cruise. Who doesn’t love a good cause and a parade of classic cars?”

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Wild Rivers Waterpark

Open weekends are in May. It is open daily from May 29 to August 23. The water covers 20 acres and boasts 20 thrilling rides. Wild Rivers is the go-to destination for families seeking an exciting, affordable day of water-based entertainment in Southern California.

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X Games Ventura California

Get ready for the 2024 summer edition of the X Games, coming back to Ventura! The event will take place at the Ventura County Fairgrounds. It will feature three days of adrenaline-fueled action with top athletes from Skate, BMX, and Moto X. Various ticket options are available, including General Admission, SuperFan, and Owner’s Club, with prices varying depending on the package. Metrolink is extending its service to accommodate fans attending the X Games in Ventura.

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Things To Do on Father’s Day

Father’s Day may not receive as much attention as Mother’s Day, but it remains a significant occasion to honor fathers across the globe. While a card or a phone call may suffice for most dads, we have compiled a list of activities to make this day even more special for your dad and put a smile on his face.

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Leona Valley Cherry Picking

Leona Valley orchards will be open to the public for U-Pick cherries. With picturesque views of white cottony tree canopies against clear blue skies and the sweet smell of cherry blossoms, Leona Valley is a beautiful place to spend an afternoon or weekend, especially in late spring to early summer.

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California Watermelon Festival

(June 22 -23, 2024) The California festival is where you can eat watermelon to your heart’s content while listening to live music, shopping for local artisan goods, playing games, enjoying carnival rides, and so much more! Every ticket includes all-you-can-eat watermelon.

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This Weekend in Orange County

List of fun things to do in and around Orange County, CA. Food tours, concerts, shows, and outdoor activities. You will find them if you are looking for fun activities in the OC.

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Ojai Music Festival

The city of Ojai holds its concerts in the Libbey Bowl. Considered a highlight of the summer classical music season, the Ojai Music Festival is a four-day series of concerts, symposia, and auxiliary events set in the idyllic Ojai Valley, California’s Shangri-la.

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Highland Springs Lavender Festival

Guided tours, marketplace, hayrides, and lavender-inspired food. Highland Springs Resort also hosts a Sausage and Beer Festival in August and an Olive and Wine fare in October featuring olive oil pressed from its trees.

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July Events

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Sawdust Art Festival

(June 30th thru Sunday, September 3rd) Laguna Beach area artists display artwork and crafts from hundreds of local artists. The festival also features glass blowing, complimentary hands-on art workshops, a dynamic children’s art booth, three live music stages, and food vendors.

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Orange County Fair

(July 19 through Aug. 18, 2024) One of Orange County’s most eagerly awaited annual events rolls into Costa Mesa, bringing all the sights, sounds, and smells of a 125-year-old tradition: rides, shows, speedway racing, animals, and a farm display. The Orange County Fair is a beloved annual event that offers entertainment, food, rides, shopping, exhibits, and more. With 23 days and nights of fun, there’s something for everyone to enjoy

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Island Packers Summer Schedule to the Channel Islands

With Summer in full swing, visitors can now board an Island Packers vessel to experience cruises and specialty trips as part of the company’s full transportation schedule to the Channel Islands National Park, in addition to popular Summer whale watching. Trips from Ventura Harbor are offered on select days, and Island Packers, the official concessionaire of Channel Island National Park, recommends that visitors make a reservation in advance.

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Los Angeles’ Historic Little Tokyo Neighborhood

One of the oldest neighborhoods in Los Angeles is celebrating its remarkable milestone of 140 years of rich Japanese American history, filled with resiliency to remain a vibrant community. Established in 1884, Little Tokyo has endured over a century of adversities, and today is a thriving cornerstone of the Japanese American community and one of four remaining Japan towns.

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San Diego Bayfest Waterfront Park Festival

San Diego Bayfest is an exciting music festival featuring a diverse lineup of artists and a lively atmosphere. The event will occur at the scenic Waterfront Park in downtown San Diego. Doors will open at noon, and attendees can look forward to a day filled with high-energy musical performances, local food vendors, and various craft beers and cocktails. The festival is open to adults aged 21 and older.

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San Clemente Ocean Festival

Dedicated to promoting and supporting ocean safety, the environment, and the community by providing a quality athletic venue and enjoyable family event. Enjoy a weekend with thrilling competitions, engaging activities, and unforgettable experiences. From the adrenaline-pumping lifeguard competitions to the heartwarming family events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

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4th annual “Ride With Josh” Fundraising Bike Ride

The 2024 ride will launch from Rapha’s store in Santa Monica, offering three rides for all skill levels, including beginner, intermediate, and advanced. “Ride With Josh” was founded by Sterling Simms, vice president of A&R at Columbia Records. Simms, who sits on City of Hope’s Future Hope Committee, named the ride in honor of his late brother Joshua, who lost his battle with diabetes at age 19.

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Oxnard Salsa Festival

A two-day celebration of everything salsa. Presented by Oxnard Downtown, the annual event features spicy food, top-notch music, and entertainment, attracting 50,000 salsa lovers to the City of Oxnard for the two-day action-packed celebration. Admission to the festival is around $12, including fees, and children 12 and under get in for free. For those looking to indulge in the salsa-tasting lounge, tickets are about $32 and include general admission, tortilla chips, six salsa samples, and a choice of beer, margarita, or bottled water.

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Twin Lakes Bridgeport Fish Fest

(July 26-27) There will be live music, great food, kids’ entertainment, and lots of fishing during the event. We will also be raffling off some great prizes. Twin Lakes Fish Fest is an annual fundraiser to help fund the Twin Lakes Trout Foundation. The Fish Fest is about having fun, raising funds, and catching fish. It’s like a carnival, but you can reel in trout instead of cotton candy! The event occurs at the beautiful Twin Lakes Resort in Bridgeport, CA.

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August 2024 Southern California Events

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Sawdust Art Festival

(June 30th thru Sunday, September 3rd) Laguna Beach area artists display artwork and crafts from hundreds of local artists. Located in Laguna Canyon. The festival also features glass blowing, complimentary hands-on art workshops, a dynamic children’s art booth, three live music stages, and food vendors.

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Orange County Fair

(July 19 through Aug. 18, 2024) One of Orange County’s most eagerly awaited annual events rolls into Costa Mesa, bringing all the sights, sounds, and smells of a 125-year-old tradition: rides, shows, speedway racing, animals, and a farm display. The Orange County Fair is a beloved annual event that offers entertainment, food, rides, shopping, exhibits, and more. With 23 days and nights of fun, there’s something for everyone to enjoy

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Orange International Street Fair

The event will start at 10 am and run until 10 pm daily. Arts and crafts booths will showcase the highest-quality handmade items. Food booths representing 16 ethnicities, all run by local non-profit organizations, will also be present. Entertainment will be available on six stages: All-American Street, German Street, Greek Street, Irish Street, Mexican Street, and Polynesian Street. 

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Ventura County Fair

The fair features live entertainment, contests, interesting fried food, nostalgic and modern games and rides, horseshoes, and everything else you would expect from a county fair. The fair includes Agriculture, Amateur Art, Flowers, Gems and minerals, Hobbies and collections, Home Arts, Horse Shows, and Large Livestock.

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Tanaka Farms Melon Tours

Enjoy a guided wagon ride around Tanaka’s 30-acre farm to see and learn about the growth process of various summer fruits and vegetables. Indulge in a refreshing, juicy watermelon, the perfect antidote for the summer heat. Tanaka Farms is proud to cultivate melons, including Canary Melons, Cantaloupes, Honeydews, and even the rare Yellow Watermelon.

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Southern California Road Trip Ideas

Pack up the camping gear and head to a lake, a state park beach.  Enjoy the scenery, take pictures, and discover new and exciting places.

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2024 Dana Point Classic Car Show

Come to Del Prado Avenue and join thousands of other spectators for an exciting outdoor event featuring over 250 classic cars, music, vendors, food trucks, and more. This event is perfect for families, friends, and even dogs, and best of all, it’s entirely free for spectators.

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Woodland Hills Home & Garden Show

The Woodland Hills Home & Garden Show is an event that brings together local businesses, home improvement experts, and garden enthusiasts to showcase products and services related to home improvement, landscaping, and gardening. Attendees can expect to find a variety of vendors offering everything from patio furniture to organic gardening supplies. The show features workshops, demonstrations, and expert advice on home improvement projects and gardening techniques. Admission is free.

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Kayak Trip to La Jolla Sea Caves

Chances are you will get wet on this trip, but it’s all part of the fun. Kayaking is an experience that the whole family can enjoy. Kayaking is a safe, fun outdoor activity.

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September Southern California Events

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Labor Day Weekend Things To Do

Over the Labor Day weekend, popular things to do include camping and visiting a theme park, beach, or a fair or festival.

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Pacific Airshow Huntington Beach

The country’s biggest airshow by attendance is returning to Huntington Beach, featuring the largest display of military equipment in the event’s history. Attendees can look forward to thrilling performances by the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, Canadian Forces Snowbirds, and, for the first time in Huntington Beach, the F-22 Raptor Demonstration team.

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Fountain Valley Lobster Festival

(September 6-8, 2024.) The Long Beach Lobster Festival has moved to Fountain Valley Mile Square Park this year. Same festival, different location. The Original Lobster Festival has become a tradition for thousands of festival-goers annually.

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See Canyon San Luis Obispo Apple Season

The apple season in See Canyon typically runs from September through early December. During this time, visitors can pick apples, enjoy homemade apple products like pies, pastries, and ciders, and explore the scenic beauty of See Canyon. The Avila Apple Trail, which you can follow, leads through these orchards, offering a chance to taste different apple varieties and products.

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Orchid Festival Santa Ana Zoo

(September 20, 21, 22, 2024) The festival is free with Zoo Admission. Parking is free. All Tickets will give you full access to the festival and any or all of the animal, bird, and butterfly exhibits at the Santa Ana Zoo Urban Forest.

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Danish Days Solvang

(Fri, Sept 20 – Sun, Sept 22, 2024) Experience Authentic Foods, Music, Folk Dancing, and three Parades. Numerous events are held over three days, including the Living History Festival, Old World Artisans Marketplace, Viking Beer & Wine Garden, Viking Encampment, and Kids Corner.

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Old West Days Randsburg

(Third Saturday in September) Head out to the desert for country music and old-west events. On Sunday, there is a Street Fair with live music, vendors, arts & crafts, antiques, old-west gunfights, and a motorcycle show.

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Julian Apple Picking

Apples. Red & Golden Delicious, McIntosh, Jonathon, Arkansas Black, Lady Apples – U-Pick apples should be available in early September. Check with an orchard for details.

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Port Of Hueneme Banana Festival

(September 28, 2024 | 10 AM – 5PM | ) Highlights include live entertainment,  port tours, and a vendor marketplace. Enjoy offerings with a special banana treat at our vendors as they get creative to win “top banana” recognition with their custom delicacies.

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Calico Days at the Ghost Town

(Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024) The Calico Ghost Town event features music, shows, and games for people of all ages to recall the days when silver mining was king. Returning to Calico Days for the third year is the Pico Pistolero Old West Card Room. Learn how to play the old West’s table games like Doc Holiday, Bat Masterson, and Wyatt Earp.

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October Southern California Events

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The Big List of Southern California Halloween Events

Southern California Halloween events and festivals: pumpkin patches, theme parks, haunted houses, and mazes. Scary festivals from Los Angeles to San Diego. The best thing about living in SoCal is you are never too far away from something fun to do—Halloween events from Los Angeles to San Diego.

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Kids FREE OCTOBER in San Diego is Back

•   Kids Free Theme Parks and Attraction Offers:

•   Kids Stay for Free Hotel Offers:

•   Kids Free Packages: Hotel and Attraction Offers:

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Orange County Auto Show

((Oct. 3 – Oct. 6, 2024, Anaheim Convention Center) The Orange County Auto Show features hundreds of new cars and trucks. Visitors to the car show can also test-drive many of these new vehicles. Kids’ areas, as well as classic, exotic, and custom cars, will be displayed. https://www.autoshowoc.com/

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Pacific Airshow Huntington Beach, California

(October 4-6, 2024)The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, F-22 Raptor Demonstration Team, and A-10 Demo Team will perform at this year’s event. This year’s Pacific Airshow will feature a world-first – a temporary runway on the beach for attendees to get up close with select aircraft.

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Knott’s Halloween Haunt

Knott’s Scary Farm is Southern California’s most significant and haunting Halloween activity! The transformed theme park encompasses 13 uniquely haunted attractions and mazes, sinister shows, a dozen thrill rides in the dark, and more than 1,000 horrifying creatures. Check out our ticket deals.

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24th Annual Elvis Festival – The Spirit of Elvis

Join us for a day of entertainment on Historic Main Street in Garden Grove, California. Our lineup includes live performances, strolling musicians, food trucks, vendors, and restaurants. We will also celebrate National Adopt a Shelter Dog Month by honoring local rescue dogs and pets available for adoption.

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Oak Glen Apple/ Pumpkin U-Pick

U-Pick apples and pumpkins only 90 minutes from Los Angeles. Apple picking season runs through the end of November. Check with each farm for details on seasons, events, and hours. Oak Glen is a beautiful family day trip destination, especially during fall.

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The Scarecrows are Coming to Cambria

Every October, scarecrows take over the charming town of Cambria. You will find 100 to 200 scarecrows handcrafted by volunteers, artists, and businesses on display throughout the town’s East and West Villages and the quaint San Simeon community. https://cambriaca.org/the-scarecrows-are-coming/

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Griffith Park Haunted Hayride

Southern California’s original Haunted Hayride is located in Griffith Park. Guests ride aboard a tractor-pulled hay wagon through the woods of Griffith Park—a sideshow with the backward Scary-Go-Round. The slideshow includes a house of mirrors, free psychic reading, and a place to buy souvenirs. All attractions included.

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Gem-O-Rama Trona CA

Free admission to the festival. Visitors are allowed to drive onto Searles Dry Lake and collect minerals. This is the only time the dry lake is open to the public. Dealers exhibit geodes, salt crystals, and Pink Halite gathered near the dry lake at the gem show.

November Southern California Events

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Thanksgiving Weekend Day Trips

List day trips and activities that will please the whole family. Several amusement parks offer discount tickets, including a list of free activities. Use this guide to plan your Thanksgiving weekend adventures.

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Los Angeles Auto Show

(November 22 through December 1, 2024) The LA Auto Show highlights automobile innovations in design, luxury, and performance. Check out hundreds of cars from domestic and international manufacturers. Over 100 new vehicles will be available for test rides—Custom, exotic, classic autos, and brand-new models.

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Sawdust Winter Festival

(November 22nd to December 22nd) The Laguna Beach Sawdust Art Festival Winter Fantasy. This annual event is not your typical gathering of local arts and crafts artisans. It is unique because each booth is hand-built and operated by the artist.

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San Diego Botanic Gardens Lightscape

(November 15, 2024, to January 5, 2025) Lightscape illuminates San Diego Botanic Garden evenings with more than one million holiday lights, tunnels, fire, sculptures, and artistic installations. An immersive walk-through experience guides guests to North Pole Village on a mission to meet Santa Claus and save the holidays.

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L.A. Zoo Lights: A Wild Wonderland of Light

(November 15, 2024–January 5, 2025) L.A. Zoo Lights is a not-to-be-missed holiday light experience that glows brighter each year.  This year’s event features more light animals than ever, spectacular new additions – hand-crafted and high-tech – and returning favorites.

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Ridgecrest Petroglyph Festival

(November 2-3, 2024) The festival is held annually in Ridgecrest, CA, celebrating the Coso people, specifically the region’s 10,000-year-old petroglyphs of the Coso Rock Art District.

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46th Annual Dana Point Turkey Trot

(Thanksgiving Day) Get rid of the excess calories from your pre-Thanksgiving meal by participating in a 5K, 10K, 15K Combo, or Kids 1-Mile Gobble Wobble running/walking event in the scenic Dana Point Harbor! Your registration fee includes a Commemorative T-Shirt, a Medal, a Race Bib with Timed Results, and a Virtual Goody Bag.

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Oasis Camel Dairy 

Feed camels, Pomegranates, petting zoo, magic shows, and farm tours.  Oasis Camel Dairy Farm is one of Southern California’s most unique attractions. Located in Ramona, It bills itself as “an oasis from the ordinary”’, and that’s the truth.

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Things to do in Orange County on Thanksgiving

Here is a list of fun things to do on Thanksgiving weekend in Orange County. Attractions, activities, parks, and day trip ideas, along with a few hidden gems. This list is excellent for both out-of-town visitors and locals.

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December Southern California Events

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Southern California Christmas Events

Discover the best places and events to celebrate the Christmas season in Southern California.  Our list covers popular family attractions, including parades, Christmas lights, shows, train rides, festivals, and activities.

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Sawdust Winter Art Festival

( November 17th-December 17, 2023)Check out the Laguna Beach Sawdust Art Festival Winter Fantasy for that perfect, extraordinary holiday gift. This annual event is not your typical gathering of local arts and crafts artisans. It is unique because each booth is hand-built and operated by the artist.

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Harvest Festival Pomona

(December 1-3, 2024) Holiday bliss is a treasured tradition. This event transforms the Fairplex into a winter wonderland for the West Coast’s largest and most prestigious indoor showcase.

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Mountain High Opening Day

Mountain High, the closest winter resort in Southern California, has opened for the 2023/2024 season. Visitors can do November 30o-bottom skiing and snowboarding at the resort, just 90 minutes from Los Angeles and Orange County. Whether you want to learn how to ski or snowboard or spend a day in the terrain park with friends, Mountain High is the perfect destination.

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Lightscape Los Angeles Arboretum

(Los Angles Lightscape) November 9, 2023, through January 12, 2024) Lightscape Los Angeles returns with stunning new installations along a newly expanded trail. Wander through dazzling color, light, and sound displays, including the spectacular Winter Cathedral. Reserve your tickets now for the holiday season.

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L.A. Zoo Lights: A Wild Wonderland of Light

(Nov 18–Jan 22, 2024) The holiday light experience has glowed brighter each year. This year’s event features more light animals than ever – hand-crafted and high-tech.

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Wonderland & Holiday Marketplace 2023

(Saturday, December 16, 2023, from Noon to 4 pm. ) Come to Ventura Harbor Village to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, take a photo, and even get up close to two of their reindeer. Enjoy the magic of the season with wandering carolers and holiday characters. Listen to a live band, play in the simulated snowfall, and create holiday crafts for free.

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Holiday Season at Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood

From December 22, guests will journey into the magical world of their beloved holiday movies and TV shows. The studio tour offers delightful opportunities for holiday-themed photos, capturing joyful moments amidst iconic sets such as the Gazebo of Gilmore Girls and the cozy atmosphere of Luke’s Diner. Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood is committed to creating a festive and enjoyable experience for all visitors.

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Descanso Gardens’ Enchanted: Forest of Light

(Nov. 20–Jan. 8, 2024) During this colorful and interactive experience, you can stroll through a mile of Descanso Gardens’ most popular areas while marveling at the gorgeous lighted displays.

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Ventura Harbor Parade of Lights & Fireworks 2023

(Friday, December 15, and Saturday, December 16, 2023) It is a genuinely enchanting moment when the spectators catch sight of the stunning boats decorated in vibrant colors and festive décor during the annual Ventura Harbor Parade of Lights & Fireworks. This year, the Hawaiian tropical theme is titled “Hula Holiday.” The event is free for all, with complimentary admission and parking.

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Festival of Lights Downtown Santa Monica

(Thursday, December 7 through Thursday, December 14) At sundown, celebrate the Festival of Lights during the Hanukkah season with nightly menorah lightings on the 1400 block of Third Street Promenade (between Santa Monica Blvd and Broadway). The lighting ceremonies will begin at sundown, with the final lighting ceremony at the ice rink.

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Christmas Light Boat Parade Newport Beach

It is the biggest and best Christmas boat parade in California.  Watch beautifully decorated yachts, boats, kayaks, and canoes sail along the harbor in the 109th Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade, hosted by the Commodores Club of Newport Beach.

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San Diego Botanic Garden Lightscape

November 18 through January 1))One hundred twenty-five thousand lights decorate the San Diego Botanic Gardens. Garden of Lights is a magical holiday experience for the whole family, so bring them down for an evening of Christmas fun at the gardens.

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Fairplex Pomona Harvest Festival

(December 3 -5 at the Ontario Convention Center) Friday: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm; Saturday: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm; Sunday: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. Browse over 24,000 handmade creations at the Pomona Harvest Festival. Gift-giving gets a personal touch when you choose unique, one-of-a-kind gifts. With over 300 exhibitors, you will indeed find that perfect present.

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Capistrano Lights Mission San Juan Capistrano

A family event where guests can experience the season’s festive spirit in one place. The event includes nightly musical tree lighting and decorative light displays.

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POLAR EXPRESS™ SoCal Train Museum

(Trains Depart November 19th-December 30th, 2023)Join us for a magical one-hour journey to meet Santa! When you board the train, our friendly car hosts will go through the coach and punch your golden ticket. Then, enjoy a cup of hot chocolate and a delicious cookie served by our dancing chefs. Passengers can also follow along with the classic children’s book, “The Polar Express,” by Chris Van Allsburg.

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Knott’s Christmas Village

(November 17, 2023 – January 7, 2024) Free admission is Monday through Thursday. Get into the holiday spirit at Knott’s. Park admission is required to visit the Crafts Village. You can get in for free for eight days this year.

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Dana Point Harbor Christmas Light Parade

View from anywhere in the harbor for free, or take a cruise and be part of the parade. Awards will be for Judges’ Choice, Best Use of Lights, Best Animation, Most Colorful, The Most Original, Best Sailboat, and Powerboat.

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Bates Nut Farm Christmas Festival

(Friday, December 9th, from 4 pm to 8 pm) Take a hayride to Santa’s shop for holiday gifts. Bates Nut Farm will host its most giant Arts and Crafts Fair over the Thanksgiving weekend.

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Christmas Train Irvine Park

Irvine Park Railroad’s annual Christmas Train. Come with family and friends and take this enchanting night ride through historic Irvine Regional Park to meet Santa Claus.

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 San Diego Auto Show

The San Diego Auto Show is the second-largest automotive event in California, with activities for the whole family. There will be prize giveaways and a particular Camp Jeep area for kids during the show. Test-drive new cars or check out the exotic car section to find the vehicle of your dream

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Submit Southern California Events

Please send event info to info@daytrippen.com –  Date of Event – Location – Event website – Special Offers – A brief event description.