Discover the best of Southern California this winter with our comprehensive guide to February 2026 events in Orange County and the Coachella Valley. Whether you’re chasing a personal best at the Surf City Marathon in Huntington Beach or immersing yourself in mid-century design during Modernism Week in Palm Springs, February is the ultimate time to experience the region’s diverse lifestyle. From the cultural vibrant Tet Festival in Costa Mesa to the historic Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival in Indio, this month offers a unique blend of coastal energy and desert charm.
CENTRAL OC
Surf City Artisan Fair | February 13-16, 20-22 + 27-28 | 10am – 5pm | Downtown Business Improvement District, Huntington Beach Pier Plaza, Huntington Beach
Held at the Huntington Beach Pier on Fridays and select weekends, the Surf City Artisan Fair celebrates coastal creativity with a diverse showcase of handcrafted jewelry, pottery, and art. This eco-friendly event connects the community through live music and interactive workshops while providing a vital platform for local entrepreneurs to thrive. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, join us at the pier to discover unique treasures and experience the vibrant spirit of Surf City!
Fight Club OC | Thursday, February 12 | 6pm | The Hangar, 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa
Experience the high-octane energy of Fight Club OC, a nationally recognized hybrid Boxing and MMA series held six times a year at The Hangar in Costa Mesa. This premier Thursday night promotion delivers an immersive fan experience, featuring a massive 40-foot LED HD video board with instant replays and exciting giveaways from local favorites like Gina’s Pizza, Newport Ribs, and Descanso Restaurant. As the country’s top club fight show, we promise that while we’ll sell you the whole seat, you’ll only need the edge!
SOUTH OC
UVSA Tết Festival | Friday, February 13 – Sunday, February 15 | Friday: 4-10pm; Saturday: 11am-10pm; Sunday: 11am-9:30pm | Golden West College, 15744 Goldenwest Street, Huntington Beach
Celebrate the Year of the Horse at the 2026 UVSA Tết Festival, the nation’s largest Vietnamese Lunar New Year celebration! This vibrant three-day cultural immersion invites the community to experience a traditional Vietnamese Village, authentic cuisine, and live entertainment, including the prestigious Miss Vietnam of Southern California pageant and a signature firecracker show. From festive games and rides to a dazzling array of local vendors, the festival serves as a vital bridge for heritage and connection, offering FREE admission to those in traditional attire or military uniform during select hours.
Pet Parade & Animal Rescue Expo | Saturday, February 21 | 11:30am | Historic Town Center Park, 31806 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano
Bring your furry, feathered, or scaled friends to the 2026 San Juan Capistrano Pet Parade. Part of the historic Fiesta de las Golondrinas, this beloved community tradition invites pets of all shapes and sizes to compete for titles like “Best Team Costume” and “Most Unusual Pet.” Registration begins at 10am for just $5, with the parade kicking off at 11:30am, offering a morning of whimsical fun for families and animal lovers alike. Whether you’re entering your pet or cheering from the sidelines, it’s a perfect way to celebrate the spirit of San Juan Capistrano!
2nd Annual Wildlife Jewels World Wildlife Day Celebration | Saturday, February 28 | 2-5:30pm | Newport Beach Civic Center Community Room, 100 Civic Center Drive, Newport Beach
Enter the wild at the 2nd Annual Wildlife Jewels World Wildlife Day in Newport Beach, a free celebration honoring our planet through art, fashion, and hands-on conservation. Experience an afternoon of fashion shows, community art, interactive painting, and pollinator planting, while learning to protect global wildlife and monarch butterflies—perfect for any nature lover ready to turn passion into protection!
COACHELLA VALLEY
Palm Springs Modernism Week | Thursday, February 12 – Sunday, February 22 | Times Vary | Various locations throughout greater Palm Springs
Immerse yourself in the world-renowned Modernism Week, the premier celebration of midcentury architecture, design, and culture, returning to Palm Springs. This 11-day festival features over 400 events, including exclusive home tours of rarely seen residences, signature double-decker bus tours, and the celebrated Palm Springs Modernism Show at the Convention Center. From festive garden parties and the high-energy Modernist Motown opening night to vintage trailer exhibitions and engaging design talks, the event offers a unique glimpse into the desert’s iconic aesthetic. Whether you’re a design aficionado or a vintage enthusiast, join the global community in the Coachella Valley to honor the preservation and sustainable modern living that defines this desert oasis!
Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival | Thursday, February 12 – Sunday, March 1 | Times Vary | Riverside County Fairgrounds, 46350 Arabia Street, Indio
The Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival returns to Indio, celebrating the Coachella Valley’s rich agricultural heritage with its iconic “Return to the Oasis” theme. This 13-day tradition features high-octane arena events like monster trucks and demolition derbies alongside the historic Arabian Nights pageant and the festive Presidents’ Day Parade. Visitors can enjoy exhilarating carnival rides, livestock competitions, and a world-famous array of date-inspired treats, from signature shakes to unique fair foods. It’s an essential desert experience that combines classic fairground fun with a unique cultural celebration perfect for the whole family.
Whether you’re exploring the coastal charm of Orange County or the mid-century allure of the Coachella Valley, February 2026 offers a perfect snapshot of the Southern California lifestyle. These events celebrate the unique culture and vibrant communities that make our region so special. If you’re looking to find your place in one of these iconic neighborhoods, visit SurterreProperties.com today. You can also explore our exclusive listings now!
February 2026 Events in Southern California: FAQs
1. What are the best events in Orange County in February 2026?
Orange County offers a diverse lineup this month, including the UVSA Tết Festival in Huntington Beach, the San Juan Capistrano Rotary Classic Car Show, and the Laguna Beach Music Festival. From cultural celebrations to automotive history, there is something for every interest.
2. When and where is the 2026 UVSA Tết Festival?
The 2026 UVSA Tết Festival, celebrating the Year of the Horse, will be held from February 13th to 15th at Golden West College in Huntington Beach. It is the nation’s largest Vietnamese Lunar New Year celebration.
3. What is Modernism Week 2026 in Palm Springs?
Modernism Week 2026 takes place from February 12th to 22nd in Palm Springs. It is an 11-day festival celebrating midcentury modern architecture, design, and culture through home tours, bus tours, and the Palm Springs Modernism Show.
4. Are there any free events in Dana Point this February?
Yes! The Books & Blooms: Enemies to Lovers Edition is a free community event held at Dana Point Harbor on February 7, 2026, featuring over 60 vendors, author readings, and plant-themed activities.
5. Where can I see classic cars in Southern California this month?
The 22nd Annual SJC Rotary Classic Car Show is happening Saturday, February 7, 2026, at its new location: the Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park in San Juan Capistrano. It features nearly 400 exotic and restored vehicles.
6. What is the Riverside County Fair and National Date Festival?
Held in Indio from February 12 to March 1, 2026, this festival celebrates the Coachella Valley’s agricultural heritage with monster trucks, demolition derbies, carnival rides, and famous date-inspired treats.
7. When is the Palm Springs Vintage Market held?
The market takes place the first Sunday of every month at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. In February 2026, there is also a special bonus market held in conjunction with Modernism Week.
8. Is there a Lunar New Year parade in Irvine in 2026?
Yes, the Lunar New Year Parade & Festival at the Great Park in Irvine is scheduled for Saturday, February 7, 2026, featuring a parade, lion dances, and cultural performances starting at 11:00 AM.
9. How can I attend the San Juan Capistrano Pet Parade?
The Pet Parade takes place on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at Los Rios Park. Part of the Fiesta de las Golondrinas, registration starts at 10:00 AM and is open to all pets for a small entry fee.
10. How can I find real estate near these popular SoCal event locations?
To find homes in these vibrant communities, visit SurterreProperties.com. As a leading boutique real estate brokerage in Southern California, Surterre Properties connects buyers with luxury listings in Orange County and the Coachella Valley.
