Whether you’re into art, beer and wine, classic cars, food, movies, music, sports or something else, there will be lots of things to do this year in Southern California. Here’s our annual month-by-month guide to dozens of the best events happening in 2018.
Jump to a month: February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December
Laguna Beach Music Festival
What: Classical and contemporary music concerts and community outreach programs highlight a program, presented by the Philharmonic Society of Orange County and Laguna Beach Live!
When: Feb. 7-11
Where: Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach
Tickets: $44-$64
Information: philharmonicsociety.org/LBMF
Los Angeles A Capella Festival
What: Performances by FACE Vocal Band, Vocalight, LoveNotes Quartet and Top Shelf, plus competitions, workshops and master classes are on tap during this three-day event.
When: Feb. 9-11
Where: El Segundo High School, 640 Main St.
Tickets: $30-$70
Information: la-af.com
San Gabriel Lunar New Year Festival
What: Ancient traditions combine with modern celebrations to mark the Lunar New Year with a street food fair, marketplace, carnival games, chalk art contest, fun zone for the kids and more.
When: Feb. 10, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Where: Mission District, 320 S. Mission Drive, San Gabriel
Tickets: Free
Information: sglunarnewyear.org
Modernism Week
What: Fans of midcentury-modern architecture, design and culture will enjoy the home tours (on foot and via bus), symposiums, lectures, film screenings art events and martini parties that make up this showcase that’s uniquely Palm Springs.
When: Feb. 15-25
Where: Various Palm Springs locations
Tickets: Free-$175
Information: www.modernismweek.com
Riverside County Fair
& National Date Festival
What: 10 days of family-friendly fun, including carnival rides, camel races, and date-inspired cuisine. Main stage music headliners include the veteran crossover band WAR (7:30 p.m. Feb. 16), country star Chase Rice (7:30 p.m. Feb. 17) and Lou Gramm, the founding member of Foreigner, with Foghat (7 p.m. Feb. 24).
When: Feb. 16-25
Where: Riverside County Fairgrounds, 82-503 Highway 111, Indio
Tickets: $9-$11, $30 for a season pass
Information: datefest.org
ScotsFestival & International Highland Games XXV
What: Scotland’s culture and history will be celebrated during this silver anniversary event, with professional and amateur competitions in piping, drumming, massed bands, darts and Highland dancing and athletics.
When: Feb. 17-18, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: Queen Mary, 1126 Queens Highway, Long Beach
Tickets: $25 adults, $12 ages 4-11; additional charge for tastings and some other activities
Information: queenmary.com/events/scotsfestival
African-American Festival
What: 16th annual celebration brings Mardi Gras second-line dancers, hip-hop and break dancers, jazz musicians, interactive drum circles, West African dancers, storytellers and more to the Aquarium of the Pacific.
When: Feb. 24-25, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Aquarium of the Pacific, 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach
Tickets: Free with Aquarium admission ($30 adults, $18 ages 3-11)
Information: www.aquariumofpacific.org
Inland Empire Bridal Show
What: Shop, compare and connect with 80 Inland Empire wedding vendors, including florists, disc jockeys, photographers, gowns and tuxedos, venues and honeymoon getaways.
When: Feb. 25, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Riverside Convention Center, 3650 Third St.
Tickets: $12
Information: www.brideworld.com
Festival of Colors
What: Live music, dance, yoga, mantras, food and the throwing of colors — eco-friendly powders (made from corn starch, food-grade dyes and fragrance) that are available on-site.
When: March 3, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Martha McLean Park, 5759 Jurupa Ave., Riverside
Tickets: $6.50-$30
Information: www.festivalofcolorsusa.com
Festival of Whales
What: Whale watching (via boats and from land), art displays and classes, classic cars, carnival, fishing clinics, sand-sculpting competitions, walking tours and more are on tap for the 47th annual event. During the peak season (December to March) for the 5,000-mile migration of the California gray whale from Alaska to Mexico, 40-50 whales pass by Dana Point each day.
When: March 3-4, 10-11
Where: Dana Point Harbor, 24650 Dana Point Harbor Drive
Tickets: Free
Information: festivalofwhales.com
Air + Style
What: Inspired by two-time Olympic gold medalist Shaun White, the fourth annual event features four of his passions — sports, music, art and culture. Phoenix, Zedd and Gucci Mane are this year’s music headliners, and more than 20 acts will be performing on two stages. New this year are a street-style snowboarding contest and additional skateboarding competitions.
When: March 3-4
Where: Exposition Park, 700 Exposition Park Drive, Los Angeles
Tickets: $149 for 2-day general admission, $239 for 2-day VIP
Information: airandstyle.com
Orange County Bridal Show
What: Shop, compare and connect with 100 Orange County wedding vendors, including florists, disc jockeys, photographers, gowns and tuxedos, venues and honeymoon getaways.
When: March 4, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Sheraton Park Hotel, 1855 S. Harbor Blvd., Anaheim
Tickets: $12
Information: www.brideworld.com
Pechanga Wine Festival & Chocolate Decadence
What: Chocolates and pastries play nicely with wines, champagnes and spirits during Chocolate Decadence on Friday, and the 10th annual wine festival takes over on Saturday with selections from top producers from California, France, Italy, Spain, Argentina, Chile, Australia, New Zealand and more plus live music.
When: March 9-10
Where: Pechanga Resort & Casino, 45000 Pechanga Parkway, Temecula
Tickets: $35 and up
Information: pechanga.com/entertain
California Irish Festival
What: Four city blocks in downtown Upland will be transformed into a showcase of Celtic-themed cuisine and food trucks, family fun, live music, vendors and a beer garden.
When: March 10-11; 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday
Where: 215 N. Second Ave., downtown Upland
Tickets: Free
Information: www.californiairishfest.com
Festival of Colors
What: Live music, dance, yoga, mantras, food and the throwing of colors — eco-friendly powders (made from corn starch, food-grade dyes and fragrance) that are available on-site.
When: March 10-11, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and until 4 p.m. Sunday
Where: Whittier Narrows Park, 750 S. Santa Anita Ave., South El Monte
Tickets: $6.50-$30
Information: www.festivalofcolorsusa.com
Beyond Wonderland
What: Electronic music and dance festival returns for its eighth outing.
When: March 16-17
Where: NOS Event Center, 689 S. E St., San Bernardino
Tickets: $149 general, $249 VIP
Information: beyondwonderland.com
International Children’s Festival
What: Dancing, singing, crafts (including Japanese origami), games and other activities highlight the 13th annual event presented by children representing a variety of cultures and nations.
When: March 17, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Aquarium of the Pacific, 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach
Tickets: Free with Aquarium admission ($30 adults, $18 ages 3-11)
Information: www.aquariumofpacific.org
Latin Food Fest
What: Opportunities to indulge in the flavors of the Americas during this celebration of Latin food, wine and spirits. “Mexico in 32 Flavors” opens the event on March 23, at 7 p.m.
When: March 23-24
Where: Santa Monica Pier Beach, 200 Santa Monica Pier A
Tickets: $19-$149
Information: latinfoodfest.com
Catalina Arts & Crafts Festival
What: Arts and crafts are for show and for sale during this spring event, presented by the Catalina Art Association.
When: March 30-April 1
Where: Avalon waterfront, Catalina Island
Tickets: Free
Information: catalinaartassociation.org
Renaissance Pleasure Faire
What: Travel back in time to the days of yore when Queen Elizabeth I ruled England. A 20-acre wooded playground offers entertainment, such as fully armored jousting, and is populated with characters wearing elaborate costumes that recall the era. Don’t miss the marketplace and pub crawl.
When: April 7-May 20, Saturdays and Sundays only, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Where: Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area, 15501 E. Arrow Highway, Irwindale
Tickets: $30 single day adults, $15 single day ages 5-12; season passes $155 (adults), $70 ages 5-12)
Information: renfair.com/socal
Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival
What: Beyoncé, Eminem and The Weeknd headline SoCal’s biggest music event of the year, with another 150 or so acts including SZA, Kygo, Haim, Tyler, David Byrne, Odesza and Portugal. The Man
When: April 13-15, 20-22
Where: Empire Polo Club, 81-800 Avenue 51, Indio
Tickets: Sold out, but available on secondary markets.
Information: www.coachella.com
Related story: How to get tickets for Coachella
California Wine Festival
What: Ninth annual event features nearly 250 selections from more than 80 wineries, plus food from 30 Orange County fine dining restaurants and gourmet food companies. Rare and reserve tasting is 6:30-9 p.m. Friday, beachside wine festival 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday.
When: April 20-21
Where: Laguna Cliffs Marriott, 25135 Park Lantern, Dana Point; and Lantern Bay Park, 25111 Park Lantern, Dana Point
Tickets: $350 and up
Information: californiawinefestival.com
Earth Day Celebration
What: Learn about what can be done to help protect the planet’s oceans during this 18th annual event.
When: April 21-22, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Aquarium of the Pacific, 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach
Tickets: Free with Aquarium admission ($30 adults, $18 ages 3-11)
Information: www.aquariumofpacific.org
Stagecoach Country Music Festival
What: Garth Brooks, a five-time CMA entertainer of the year, will headline the country music extravaganza for the first time, also performing with Trisha Yearwood on April 29. Also headlining will be the duo Florida Georgia Line on April 27, and guitar virtuoso Keith Urban on April 28. Other performers include Jake Owen, Kacey Musgraves, Lee Brice and Kenny Rogers.
When: April 27-29
Where: Empire Polo Club, 81-800 Avenue 51, Indio
Tickets: $329 for 3-day general admission (other price levels sold out)
Information: stagecoachfestival.com
Mission Federal ArtWalk
What: Seventeen blocks of San Diego’s Little Italy neighborhood, primarily along India Street, will be filled with visual and performing arts plus music, dance and interactive art experiences.
When: April 28-29, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: Little Italy neighborhood, San Diego
Tickets: Free
Information: artwalksandiego.org
Joshua Tree Music Festival
What: 16th annual spring event features an international lineup of performers on two stages, including Cory Henry & The Funk Apostles, Con Brio, Dirtwire, Yossi Fine & Ben Aylon, and The Garifuna Collective featuring Umalalli.
When: May 17-20
Where: Joshua Tree Lake Campground, 2601 Sunfair Road, Joshua Tree
Tickets: $60-$90 single-day, $170 for the four-day pass
Information: joshuatreemusicfestival.com
Surf ’n’ Suds Beer Festival
What: More than 50 craft breweries, ciders and wines will be represented at an event that sold out last year. Live entertainment includes DJ Hecktik, lawn games and food trucks.
When: May 19, starting at 11:30 a.m.
Where: San Buenaventura State Beach, 901 San Pedro St., Ventura
Tickets: $50 general admission, $65 early admission
Information: surfbeerfest.com
California Strawberry Festival
What: 35th annual strawberry jubilee dozens of food booths serving strawberry everything — kebabs, nachos, pizza, flan, funnel cake, cotton candy, beer and margaritas. For dessert? Chocolate-dipped strawberries, of course. Contests include pie-eating and best-dressed babies.
When: May 19-20, 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Where: Strawberry Meadows of College Park, 3250 S. Rose Ave., Oxnard
Tickets: $12 general, $5 ages 5-12
Information: castrawberryfestival.org
Doheny Blues Festival
What: The 21st annual event will be staged this year at a new venue, Dana Point’s Sea Terrace Park. Headliners include George Thorogood, Jimmie Vaughan and the California Honeydrops. Enjoy 24 performances on three alternating stages, plus food offerings from many Orange County restaurants, an eclectic vendor fair and craft beer selections.
When: May 19-20, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. each day
Where: Sea Terrace Park, 33501 Niguel Road, Dana Point
Tickets: $60 and up
Information: dohenybluesfestival.com
Fiesta Hermosa
What: With 20-plus types of ethnic food choices, including Greek and Thai cuisines, this biannual fiesta has lots to feast on. The musical lineup includes tribute bands performing classic rock, pop and surf music. Be sure to reel in some fish tacos prepared by Hermosa Beach lifeguards.
When: May 26-28
Where: Downtown Hermosa Beach, Pier and Hermosa avenues
Tickets: Free
Information: fiestahermosa.net
Beaumont Cherry Festival
What: The annual cherry celebration turns 100 this year with fun and festivities that include a parade, car show, carnival rides, vendor booths and live entertainment.
When: May 31-June 3
Where: Stewart Park, 650 E. Ninth St., Beaumont
Tickets: TBA
Information: beaumontcherryfestival.org
Temecula Valley Balloon & Wine Festival
What: Hot-air balloon flights, wine tastings, arts & crafts, commercial exhibits, fun for the kids and food. Lots of it. Evening highlights include concerts on the main stage and the “balloon glow.”
When: June 1-3
Where: Lake Skinner Recreation Area, 37701 Warren Road, Winchester
Tickets: $23-$33 single-day passes in advance ($30-$40 at the gate).
Information: www.tvbwf.com
Related story: Getting the most out of the Balloon and Wine Festival
Pacific Islander Festival
What: Discover the rich and diverse cultures of the Pacific Islands through traditional crafts and games, music and dance, including the hula and Tahitian drumming.
When: June 2-3, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Aquarium of the Pacific, 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach
Tickets: Free with Aquarium admission ($30 adults, $18 ages 3-11)
Information: www.aquariumofpacific.org
Taste of the Nation
What: Chefs from dozens of restaurants and award-winning California wineries. Proceeds benefit efforts to fight childhood hunger.
When: June 3, 12:30-4 p.m.
Where: Media Park, 9070 Venice Blvd., Culver City
Tickets: $110 general admission, $160 VIP admission
Information: ce.nokidhungry.org/losangeles
Hollywood Fringe Festival
What: Productions are presented by local, national and international arts companies and independent performers at more than two dozen venues in Hollywood and Los Angeles.
When: June 7-24
Where: The Broadwater, 1078 Lillian Way, Los Angeles; The Complex Theater, 6476 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles; and other L.A. area locations.
Tickets: Various
Information: www.hollywoodfringe.org
Lavender Festival
What: The 14th annual event promises all kinds of family fun, including guided tours in horse-drawn carriages of the largest organic lavender farm in Southern California. Also, take part in demonstrations on how lavender oil is extracted, opportunities to taste lavender-inspired dishes and live music. The venue is a 2,400-acre historic landmark in the San Gorgonio Pass that was used as a stagecoach stop in the mid-1800s.
When: June 8-10 and 15-17, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Highland Springs Resort, 10600 Highland Springs Ave., Cherry Valley
Tickets: $8 adults, $6 ages 13-17
Information: hsresort.com/thelavenderfestival
Playboy Jazz Festival
What: Lee Ritenour, Tower of Power, The Count Basie Orchestra and The Ramsey Lewis Quartet are among this year’s performers. Additional acts will be announced Feb. 21. George Lopez will be the host.
When: June 9-10
Where: Hollywood Bowl, 2301 N. Highland Ave., Los Angeles
Tickets: TBA (tickets go on sale Feb. 21)
Information: www.hollywoodbowl.com
L.A. Roadsters Show
What: Hundreds of 1936 and older open cars of all types and makes will be on display during this 54th annual event, which has become a Father’s Day weekend tradition.
When: June 16-17
Where: Fairplex, 1101 W. McKinley Ave., Pomona
Tickets: $20 ages 13 and older, $10 ages 6-12
Information: www.laroadstershow.com
Vans Warped Tour
What: After a long and successful run for the annual traveling music festival, 2018 will mark the end of the full, cross-country run for Vans Warped Tour, founder and producer Kevin Lyman revealed in November. The music lineup has yet to be announced for this summer.
When: June 21
Where: Fairplex, 1101 W. McKinley Ave., Pomona (also, June 22 in San Diego, June 24 in Ventura)
Tickets: $100 (tickets on sale June 1)
Information: vanswarpedtour.com
Related story: Vans Warped Tour will call it quits after 2018
Mariachi USA Festival
What: Mariachi bands from the United States and Mexico are on the lineup for the 29th annual event, which also includes folkloric dance troupes and a brilliant show-ending fireworks display.
When: June 23
Where: Hollywood Bowl, 2301 N. Highland Ave., Los Angeles
Tickets: TBA
Information: mariachiusa.com
Anime Expo 2018
What: It’s the ultimate experience for anime lovers, with panel discussions, workshops and guest speakers. Dozens and dozens of vendors and exhibitors will be displaying/selling Japanese cultural goods, plus look for concerts featuring Japanese music acts.
When: July 5-8 (pre-event the night of July 4)
Where: Los Angeles Convention Center, 1201 S. Figueroa St.
Tickets: $20-$90 (higher price levels sold out)
Information: www.anime-expo.org
Pageant of the Masters
What: “Under the Sun,” honoring Laguna Beach’s own and other artistic pioneers from around the world who left their studios in search of new inspiration, is the theme of this year’s show. Each ticket also allows admission to the Festival of Arts grounds, where original works by dozens of artists are on display and available for purchase.
When: July 7-Sept. 1
Where: Festival of Arts, 650 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach
Tickets: $15-$240
Information: www.foapom.com
Chalice Festival
What: Called the “Coachella of concentrates,” the three-day event features street artists, glass blowers, marijuana industry vendors and the makers of cannabis-based products.
When: July 13-15
Where: San Bernardino County Fairgrounds, 14800 Seventh St., Victorville
Tickets: $80-$90 single day, $140 for a three-day pass
Information: www.chalicecalifornia.com
Orange County Fair
What: The ninth largest fair in the country returns with the theme, “Free Your Inner Farmer,” and its traditional lineup of competitive exhibits, carnival rides, shopping, food and concerts at the Pacific Amphitheatre adjacent to the fairgrounds. Ticket prices for 2018 are the same as they were last year.
When: July 13-Aug. 12
Where: OC Fair and Event Center, 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa
Tickets: $12 Wednesday-Friday, $14 weekends for adults; $7 for seniors and youth every day
Information: ocfair.com
California Wine Festival
What: Billed as one of the largest outdoor wine festivals in the state, the 15th annual event includes a rare and reserve wine tasting (6:30-9 p.m. Friday) and a beachside gathering (noon-4 p.m. Saturday). Event benefits Foodbank of Santa Barbara County.
When: July 19-21
Where: Multiple venues, including Chase Palm Park, 323 E. Cabrillo Blvd., Santa Barbara
Tickets: $350 and higher
Information: californiawinefestival.com
Oxnard Salsa Festival
What: Celebrate everything salsa — food, music, dance — at an event that features an international food court, marketplace selling gourmet salsas and sauces, boutique clothing, handcrafted jewelry and apparel, and music by salsa and Latin bands.
When: July 28-29, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Where: Plaza Park, 500 S. C St., Oxnard
Tickets: Free admission; $5 for concert venue open seating
Information: oxnardsalsafestival.com
Related story: Recipe for chipotle-bacon salsa
International Surf Festival
What: Surfing and bodysurfing contests, beach run, paddleboard and dory races, and a pier-to-pier swim are highlights of a 58th annual event that promotes lifeguard service and physical fitness.
When: Aug. 1-5
Where: Hermosa Beach Pier, Hermost and Pier avenues
Tickets: Free admission
Information: www.surffestival.org
Surf ’n’ Suds Beer Festival
What: Dozens of craft breweries, ciders and wines will be represented during an afternoon of fun at Carpinteria State Beach. Live entertainment includes DJ Hecktik, lawn games and food trucks.
When: Aug. 11, starting at 11:30 a.m.
Where: Carpinteria State Beach, Linden Avenue at Sandyland Road, Carpinteria
Tickets: $50 general admission, $65 early admission
Information: surfbeerfest.com
What: One of the largest fairs in the country boasts an array on entertainment options and exhibits, including carnival rides and games, arts & crafts, products for sale, farm animals, diet-busting foods, and a wine, beer and spirits marketplace. The main stage concert series draws top acts from today and yesterday.
When: Aug. 31-Sept. 23
Where: Fairplex, 1101 W. McKinley Ave., Pomona
Tickets: TBA
Information: lacountyfair.com
Orange International Street Fair
What: Vendors selling ethnic-themed food, along with arts and crafts by local artisans, a play area for the kids and musical acts performing on eight stages are among the highlights of this annual event, an Old Towne Orange tradition since 1973.
When: Aug. 31-Sept. 2
Where: Old Towne Orange, along Glassell and adjoining streets, Orange
Tickets: Free
Information: www.orangestreetfair.org
Alpine Village Oktoberfest
What: Bavarian fun, food and beer have been tap for five decades, making this one of the longest-running Oktoberfest celebrations in Southern California.
When: September/October dates TBA
Where: Alpine Village, 833 W. Torrance Blvd., Torrance
Tickets: Free
Information: www.alpinevillagecenter.com/oktoberfest
Catalina Festival of Art
What: Approaching its sixth decade, this art show and street fair attracts artists from around the country, and also has music, entertainment, kids’ art show and charity auction. It’s the longest-running annual event on Catalina Island.
When: Sept. 15-17
Where: Avalon waterfront, Catalina Island
Tickets: Free
Information: catalinaartassociation.org
Route 66 Cruisin’ Reunion
What: Tens of thousands of classic car lovers from throughout the country will descend upon Ontario for three days of food, life music, entertainment and more than 2,000 classic vehicles.
When: Sept. 21-23
Where: Downtown Ontario, along Euclid Avenue and surrounding streets
Tickets: Free
Information: route66cruisinreunion.com
Music Tastes Good
What: Music, gourmet food (prepared by top local chefs) and art combine art tasty ingredients for a fun weekend.
When: TBA
Where: Marina Green Park, 386 E. Shoreline Drive, Long Beach
Tickets: TBA
Information: mtglb.co
Los Angeles Film Festival
What: Compelling independent films, TV and episodic work from emerging storytellers are featured alongside studio titles that are up for awards consideration, including the Oscars.
When: Sept. 20-28
Where: ArcLight Cinemas, 6360 Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles
Tickets: TBA
Information: www.filmindependent.org
Moompetam: Native American Festival
What: Traditional cultural crafts, storytelling, educational programs, live demonstrations, music and dance celebrate the indigenous California maritime cultures, including Tongva, Chumash, Luiseno and Kumeyaay.
When: Sept. 22-23, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Aquarium of the Pacific, 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach
Tickets: Free with Aquarium admission ($30 adults, $18 ages 3-11)
Information: www.aquariumofpacific.org
Joshua Tree Music Festival
What: The lineup has yet to be announced for the 13th annual fall event.
When: Oct. 4-7
Where: Joshua Tree Lake Campground, 2601 Sunfair Road, Joshua Tree
Tickets: $160 for a four-day pass (other prices to be announced)
Information: joshuatreemusicfestival.com
Catalina Island JazzTrax Festival
What: Two weekends of jazz music, under the stars and inside Catalina’s iconic casino and ballroom, which was built in the late 1920s in the art deco and Mediterranean revival styles. Oct. 11 and 18 concerts are outdoors on Descanso Beach.
When: Oct. 11-12, 18-19
Where: Avalon Casino, 1 Casino Way, Catalina Island
Tickets: $45-$95 opening concert, $154.50-$370 for the weekend
Information: www.jazztrax.com/jazz/catalina.html
Art San Diego
What: Contemporary fine art show with paintings, photography, sculpture, glasswork and more created by local and international artists. Event regularly attracting 15,000 art lovers and collectors during its four-day run.
When: Oct. 18-21
Where: Wyland Center, Del Mar Fairgrounds, 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd., Del Mar
Tickets: TBA
Information: art-sandiego.com
California Wine Festival
What: Nearly 200 selections from 60-plus wineries highlight this inaugural Huntington Beach event, which also will feature taste treats from 30 fine dining restaurants and gourmet food companies plus displays from lifestyle exhibitors.
When: Nov. 9-10
Where: Pasea Hotel & Spa, 21080 Pacific Coast Highway, Huntington Beach
Tickets: $350 and higher
Information: californiawinefestival.com
Related story: 5 predictions for 2018 in the world of wine, beer and spirits
Latin Food Fest
What: Annual showcase of chefs, Latin restaurants, caterers, wineries, distilleries and food and beverage purveyors focuses on the cuisines of the Caribbean, Central and South America, Mexico, Portugal and Spain.
When: Nov. 9-10
Where: 8808 Irvine Center Drive, Irvine
Tickets: TBA
Information: latinfoodfest.com
San Diego Wine+Food Festival
What: One of the largest wine and food festivals in the nation celebrates its 15th anniversary with selections from dozens of wineries, breweries, and purveyors of spirits, along with many of San Diego’s top restaurants. Cooking classes, tasting events and celebrity chef dinners also are on the menu.
When: Nov. 11-18
Where: Various San Diego locations
Tickets: TBA
Information: sandiegowineclassic.com
Autumn Festival
What: 17th annual celebration of Asian culture highlights the traditions of China, Japan, Korea and the Philippines via family entertainment and learning opportunities.
When: Nov. 17-18, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Aquarium of the Pacific, 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach
Tickets: Free with Aquarium admission ($30 adults, $18 ages 3-11)
Information: www.aquariumofpacific.org
Sawdust Winter Fantasy
What: Unique artwork by dozens of artists, live holiday entertainment, art classes and demonstrations, petting zoo, Santa and more highlight the 29th annual event.
When: November/December dates TBA
Where: 935 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach
Tickets: TBA
Information: sawdustartfestival.org/festivals
Festival of Lights
What: The annual holiday extravaganza begins its second quarter-century with more than 4 million LED lights, plus hundreds of animated angels, elves and other characters. This event has been named the “Best Holiday Festival” in the country by USA Today, and it’s easy to see why. The exciting “switch-on” ceremony, the night after Thanksgiving, is highlighted by a 15-minute fireworks show.
When: Nov. 23 through the first week of January
Where: Mission Inn Hotel & Spa, 3649 Mission Inn Ave., Riverside, and the downtown area near the historic landmark hotel
Tickets: Free
Information: festivaloflightsca.com
Harvest Festival
What: Annual arts and crafts show features thousands of handmade items including jewelry, clothing, photography, original art, hand-turned wood and ceramics, plus much more to browse and buy. There also will be stage and strolling entertainment, plus a fun zone for the kids.
When: Nov. 30-Dec. 2
Where: Fairplex Expo 4, 1101 W. McKinley Ave., Pomona
Tickets: $9 adults, $4 ages 13-17
Information: www.harvestfestival.com
Huntington Harbor Boat Parade
What: Presented by the Huntington Harbor Philharmonic Committee, the Huntington Harbor Boat Parade will set sail for its 56th annual procession. The route starts west of Carousel Lane.
When: Mid-December dates TBA
Where: Huntington Harbor, Huntington Beach
Tickets: Free to watch from the shore
Information: www.hhboatparade.org
Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade
What: Yachts, sailboats and even canoes will be outfitted with holiday lights and other decorations then take to the water in Newport Harbor for the 110th annual parade. Beginning nightly around 6:30 p.m., the procession starts and finishes at the tip of Lido Isle.
When: Mid-December dates TBA
Where: Newport Harbor, Newport Beach
Tickets: Free to watch from the shore
Information: www.christmasboatparade.com
