It’s January in Southern California! Escape the winter blues with a vibrant mix of exciting events!
Whether you’re seeking the desert sunshine of the Coachella Valley or the coastal charm of Orange County, January offers something for everyone. From outdoor adventures to exciting cultural experiences, get ready to kick off the new year with a bang!
Central Orange County
Fire & Ice Festival
When: Through January 5, 2025 · 4 – 9pm
Where: Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina, 1131 Back Bay Drive, Newport Beach
Ready to skate through a winter wonderland? Head to the Fire & Ice Festival for outdoor ice skating, dazzling lights, and holiday cheer! Make magical memories with friends and family as the bayside oasis is transformed into a beautiful winter wonderland.
Greek Yogurt Masterclass: Culturing Creamy Goodness at Home
When: Saturday, January 11 · 10am – 12pm
Where: OC Fair & Event Center, Centennial Farm Silo Building, 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa
Celebrate National Milk Day by making your very own creamy, probiotic-rich Greek yogurt with Chef Vina! This fun and interactive class will teach you the secrets of transforming fresh milk into delicious yogurt, all while learning about its incredible nutritional benefits. Take home your own jar of homemade yogurt starter and leave with inspiration for creative pairings. This class is a perfect opportunity to learn something new and have fun with a friend!
Surf City Artisan Fair
When: Friday & Saturday, January 17 – 18 · 10am – 5pm
Where: Downtown Business Improvement District, Huntington Beach Pier Plaza, Huntington Beach
The Surf City Artisan Fair, a vibrant celebration of creativity held at the iconic Huntington Beach Pier, is a beloved local tradition. This event showcases the talents of local and regional artisans, offering a diverse array of handcrafted goods, from jewelry and pottery to art and home decor. Beyond shopping, the fair fosters a strong sense of community with live music, artisanal food, and interactive workshops.
Cruisin’ 2 Freedom Car Cruise, Car Show & Dinner
When: Saturday, January 18, 2025 · 1 – 4pm
Where: OC Fair & Event Center, 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa
Join In-N-Out Burger and the Slave 2 Nothing Foundation for a day of classic cars, delicious food, and a whole lot of heart. This is an unforgettable event that supports organizations fighting human trafficking. See a dazzling car show featuring some seriously impressive ride and fuel up for the rest of the day with a mouthwatering Double-Double® fresh off the grill from In-N-Out Burger’s very own cookout trucks! Participate in exciting raffles, bid on incredible silent and live auction items, and walk away with a commemorative t-shirt and a special gift.
Fake Matthews Band: Dave Matthews Band Tribute
When: Friday, January 31 · 8:30 – 10pm
Where: Biergarten at Old World Huntington Beach, 7561 Center Avenue, Huntington Beach
Come down for a night of pure, unadulterated DMB fun! The Fake Matthews Band is a group of dedicated fans bringing the spirit of the Dave Matthews Band to life. So grab your friends, come sing along, and dance the night away at this FREE event.
South Orange County
Candle-Making + Wine Tasting at Laguna Canyon Winery
When: Saturday, January 4 · 6:30 – 8:30pm
Where: Laguna Canyon Winery, 2133 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach
Kick off 2025 with creativity and indulgence at Laguna Canyon Winery! Head down for a New Year’s resolution-themed candle-making workshop. This charming family-owned winery in the heart of Laguna Beach provides the perfect backdrop for a creative evening. You’ll craft two 8-ounce candles using premium supplies, select from a variety of scents to create candles that inspire your resolutions, and enjoy the winery’s cozy ambiance while your candles set. Wines and snacks will be available for purchase. Spaces are limited, so reserve your spot today and toast to a brighter, more creative year!
Family Sundays: Chamber Music Day
When: Sunday, January 5 · 10am – 2pm
Where: Casa Romantica Cultural Center & Gardens, 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente
Immerse yourself in the beauty and history of Casa Romantica. Enjoy FREE admission to this iconic cultural landmark and witness the debut public performances of the Casa Romantica Youth Chamber Music Program. Watch as talented young musicians showcase their skills and bring the elegant ambiance of Casa Romantica to life with their captivating melodies. This is a unique opportunity to support the next generation of artists and experience the magic of live music in a truly special setting.
Agave Dinner with Casamigos at Waldorf Astoria
When: Saturday, January 11 · 6 – 8pm
Where: Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club, One Monarch Beach Resort, Dana Point
Experience the launch of AVEO Table + Bar’s inaugural Agave Dinner in collaboration with the renowned Casamigos Tequila. Immerse yourself in an unforgettable evening in our private dining room, savoring a four-course culinary masterpiece expertly paired with exquisite Casamigos cocktails. Throughout the evening, engage in spirited discussions on the art of tequila-making, discover captivating tasting notes, and glean valuable home mixology tips directly from the Casamigos team. This exclusive event promises an unforgettable journey through the world of agave.
Modern Makers Mart + Hello Kitty Meet & Greet
When: Saturday & Sunday, January 11 & 12 · 10 – 4pm
Where: Woodbury Town Center, 6460 Irvine Boulevard, Irvine
Calling all makers, crafters, and fun-lovers! Discover a vibrant two-day event featuring handcrafted treasures from 45+ unique vendors, enjoy the energetic beats of live music, and keep the little ones entertained with engaging kids’ crafts and a thrilling scavenger hunt. Plus, don’t miss your chance to meet the adorable Hello Kitty on both Saturday and Sunday from 12 – 1pm! You can also bring your furry friends along for the fun.
The Lagoon Improv Show
When: Friday, January 24 · 7:30 – 8:30pm
Where: No Square Theatre, 384 Legion Street, Laguna Beach
Experience the magic of live theater with this one-hour fully improvised performance. Featuring talented improv teams from the Orange County area, the show blends hilarious characters, imaginative storytelling, and even a touch of musical charm. Get ready for a non-stop wave of laughter, creativity, and surprising twists and turns. The Lagoon Improv Show guarantees an unforgettable night of entertainment where the only thing deeper than the lagoon is the comedy!
Snowfest
When: Saturday, January 25 · 10:30am
Where: Pittsford Park, 21701 Pittsford Drive, Lake Forest
Come down for a day of winter fun in Lake Forest! Bring your friends and family to enjoy a magical winter wonderland with snow play, exciting games, and thrilling sled rides down Mount Pittsford. The fun begins at 10:30am with three exciting sessions for families to enjoy. Wristbands are $10 per person and are available for purchase at the Lake Forest Sports Park and Recreation Center. Get your wristbands today – they’re selling out fast!
Taste of San Juan
When: Thursday, January 30 · 6 – 9pm
Where: San Juan Hills Golf Club, 32120 San Juan Creek Road, San Juan Capistrano
Experience a culinary journey through San Juan Capistrano at the Taste of San Juan, the official kick-off celebration for the Fiesta de las Golondrinas. This exciting event brings together over 25 of the town’s finest restaurants and caterers, offering a delectable array of flavors and culinary creations. Don’t miss this opportunity to savor the best of San Juan Capistrano! Tickets are expected to sell out quickly, so purchase yours today.
Desert Cities
36th Annual Palm Springs International Film Festival
When: Thursday, January 2 – Monday, January 13 · Times Vary
Where: Locations vary throughout Palm Springs
Prepare to be dazzled by the glitz and glamour of the Palm Springs International Film Festival. This iconic festival promises a captivating blend of red carpet galas, star-studded premieres, and thought-provoking discussions that will enthrall any cinephile. Explore a world of cinematic wonders featuring a diverse selection of over 150 films hailing from 71 countries, including 68 exciting world premieres. This is your chance to discover the next big cinematic sensation and celebrate the magic of movies.
American Express Golf Tournament
When: Monday, January 13 – Sunday, January 19 · Times Vary
Where: La Quinta Country Club, 77-750 Avenue 50, La Quinta
Indulge in a luxurious escape to the Coachella Valley. The American Express Golf Tournament awaits, offering a captivating blend of exceptional golf, unforgettable fan experiences, and electrifying entertainment from Little Big Town and Journey. Immerse yourself in the sunshine and enjoy a world-class golfing experience.
Southwest Arts Festival
When: Thursday, January 23 – Sunday, January 26 · Times Vary
Where: Empire Polo Club, 81-800 Avenue 51, Indio
Prepare to be inspired at the 2025 Southwest Arts Festival, returning to the breathtaking Empire Polo Club in Indio. This acclaimed four-day event will showcase the work of over 200 artists, featuring a diverse array of traditional, contemporary, and abstract fine art, jewelry, and exquisite crafts. Experience the beauty of the Empire Polo Club, an internationally renowned destination known for its stunning natural landscape and breathtaking mountain views. Enjoy live music performances while exploring a captivating selection of pottery, glass, fine art paintings, and more.
Taste of Jalisco Festival
When: Friday, January 31 – Sunday, February 2 · Friday, 5 – 10pm; Saturday, 11am – 10pm; Sunday, 11am – 8pm
Where: Cathedral City Town Square & Festival Lawn, 68526 Avenida Lalo Guerrero, Cathedral City
Welcome to a vibrant celebration of Mexican culture. Embark on a thrilling journey through the world of tequila, sampling an impressive array of premium tequilas from renowned distilleries. Indulge in a culinary feast with delectable world cuisine. Enjoy the rhythmic sounds of vibrant live performers that will keep the festival atmosphere lively and energetic. Explore a vibrant marketplace featuring a curated selection of handcrafted artisanal products. Plus, there will be carnival rides and games for the little ones!
Of course, there are too many fun and festive events throughout Orange County and the desert this January to list! That’s one of the many reasons Southern California is one of the best places in the world to live. If you’re ready to live the ultimate Orange County or desert lifestyle, contact our real estate specialists today at SurterreProperties.com. You can also explore our exclusive listings now!
