Close out your summer in style! August is packed with an incredible lineup of events across sunny Orange County and the vibrant Coachella Valley.
Whether you’re a local looking to savor every last moment of the season in August or visiting Southern California to soak up the sun, there’s something for everyone this month. From end-of-summer concerts and festivals to art walks and wellness events, both regions are alive with energy and inspiration.
Mark your calendars — August brings together beach days, desert nights, and endless summer vibes for a truly unforgettable experience.
Central Orange County
The Sounds of Summer Live Music
When: Every Saturday in August · 12-4pm
Where: Cabo Wabo Sand Bar Lawn, 21351 Pacific Coast Hwy, Huntington Beach
End your beach day with live music and ocean views at The Sounds of Summer Concert Series. Every Saturday in August, enjoy lively performances, coastal sunsets, and craft cocktails — the perfect soundtrack to your summer evenings by the sea.
Lexus US Open of Surfing
When: Now through Sunday, August 3 · Times Vary
Where: Huntington Beach Pier, Huntington Beach
Catch the action at the Lexus US Open of Surfing through August 3. This iconic event blends world-class surf competition with beachside energy, live music, food, drinks, and fan-favorite brand activations. Head to the sand near the pier for sun, surf, and serious summer vibes — all FREE to the public.
OC Fair
When: Now through Sunday, August 17 · Times Vary
Where: OC Fair & Event Center, 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa
The annual OC Fair returns with thrilling rides, live concerts, farm exhibits, outrageous fair food, and more. Don’t miss the Pacific Amphitheatre concert series, home-grown competitions, and interactive experiences perfect for all ages.
Maker’s Hive Market
When: Saturday, August 2 · 11am-4pm
Where:
Discover local creativity at the Makers Hive Market, returning to The CAMP in Costa Mesa this August. Shop a curated collection of artisan goods, handcrafted jewelry, home décor, wellness products, and more — all while enjoying The CAMP’s signature eco-chic vibes, live music, and community energy. It’s the perfect way to support local makers and soak up the best of Orange County’s creative scene.
Live on the Lawn Concert Series
When: Saturday, August 9 · 4-7pm
Where: Neiman Marcus Bloomingdale’s Courtyard, Fashion Island®, 401 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach
Soak up the summer vibes at Fashion Island’s Live on the Lawn event on August 9. Enjoy a stylish evening of live music, al fresco dining, and coastal breezes on the Fashion Island lawn — the perfect way to unwind in true Newport Beach fashion. Bring your blankets, grab a bite, and enjoy the sounds of summer.
6th Annual Newport Beach Summer Garden Party
When: Saturday, August 9 · 4-7pm
Where: Sherman Library & Gardens, 2647 East Coast Highway, Corona del Mar
Celebrate summer in full bloom at the 6th Annual Newport Beach Summer Garden Party. Enjoy garden tours, art displays, live music, and delicious bites in a lush, coastal oasis. This vibrant community event blends nature, culture, and local charm — a must for garden lovers and Newport Beach locals alike.
Petals & Pistons Car Show
When: Saturday, August 16 · 7:30-10:30am
Where: Sherman Library & Gardens, 2647 East Coast Highway, Corona del Mar
Fuel your Saturday morning with a unique blend of horsepower and horticulture at the inaugural Petals & Pistons Car Show on August 16. Enjoy a stunning lineup of classic, vintage, European, and luxury cars alongside the beauty of Sherman’s lush gardens. This FREE, family-friendly event celebrates craftsmanship, design, and community — with food and beverages available for purchase.
Concerts on the Green: Pacific Symphony
When: Sunday, August 17 · 6-7:30pm
Where: Newport Beach Civic Green, 100 Civic Center Drive, Newport Beach
Soak in the sunset and live music at Concerts on the Green! This FREE, family-friendly event invites you to bring your blankets, lawn chairs, and picnic essentials for an evening of great tunes — the perfect way to close out a summer Sunday in coastal style.
South Orange County
Summer Concerts
When: Saturday, August 2 & 9 · 5:30pm
Where: Mike Ward Community Park, 20 Lake Road, Irvine
Spend your August evenings enjoying live music at Irvine’s Mike Ward Community Park. These FREE, family-friendly concerts kick off at 5:30pm and feature lively performances from local favorites. On August 2, catch Your Mom with ’90s hits and more, and on August 9, groove with DW3 as they bring R&B, soul, and old-school funk to the stage. Bring your blankets, low-back chairs, and your summer spirit — great food and good times await.
Music in the Park
When: Sunday, August 3, 10 & 17 · 5pm
Where: Bluebird Park, 772 Cress Street, Laguna Beach
Enjoy music under the summer sky at Laguna Beach’s Concerts in the Park this August. Held at Bluebird Park, these FREE, family-friendly Sunday concerts invite you to bring your blankets, beach chairs, and picnic fare for an evening of live music and laid-back Laguna vibes — all set against the city’s beautiful coastal backdrop.
Concerts in the Park
When: Sunday, August 3, 10 & 17 · 2:30-6pm
Where: Sea Terrace Park, 33418 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point
Keep the summer vibes going with Dana Point’s Summer Concerts in the Park this August at Sea Terrace Park. These FREE, family-friendly concerts feature two bands, great music, and a lively community atmosphere. Bring your lawn chairs, grab a bite, and enjoy an afternoon of live music with ocean breezes and good company.
First Thursdays Art Walk
When: Thursday, August 7 · 6-9pm
Where: Galleries throughout Laguna Beach
Experience Laguna Beach’s vibrant art scene during the First Thursdays Art Walk on August 7. From 6-9pm, explore local galleries, meet artists, and enjoy an inspiring evening dedicated to the arts. This FREE monthly event celebrates Laguna’s creative community and invites art lovers to stroll, discover, and connect along the coast.
Fiesta Music Festival
When: Sunday, August 10 · 10am-7pm
Where: 100 & 200 Blocks of Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente
Celebrate summer at the San Clemente Fiesta Music Festival on August 10, a beloved community tradition featuring live music, local food, contests, games, and family-friendly fun. Held in charming downtown San Clemente, this FREE event captures the best of coastal living with a lively mix of entertainment and small-town spirit.
Summer Concert Series
When: Thursday, August 14 · 6-8pm
Where: San Clemente Municipal Pier, 622 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente
Enjoy a perfect summer night at the pier. This FREE, family-friendly event invites you to bring your blankets, lawn chairs, and picnic essentials for an evening of live music by the beach from the Wheeland Brothers, all set against the backdrop of ocean views and sunset skies.
Ramps & Amps
When: Saturday, August 16 · 10am-7pm
Where: Domingo Avenue and Sepulveda, Dana Point
Get ready for high-energy action and jaw-dropping tricks at this adrenaline-filled skate and BMX showcase! Watch professional riders deliver impressive stunts and skills in a thrilling, FREE family-friendly event packed with excitement for all ages.
Sounds of the Spectrum
When: Saturday, August 23 · 6-8pm
Where: Giant Wheel Lawn, Irvine Spectrum Center, 670 Spectrum Center Drive, Irvine
Head to Irvine Spectrum Center on August 23 for live weekend entertainment in a vibrant outdoor setting. Enjoy music, entertainment, and the energy of one of Orange County’s most popular shopping and dining destinations — the perfect way to cap off a summer Saturday.
Desert Cities
Wellness Day at The Shops
When: Saturday, August 2 · 12-4pm
Where: The Shops at Palm Desert, 72840 California 111, Palm Desert
Refresh your mind and body at Wellness Day at The Shops in Palm Desert — a lively afternoon dedicated to health, beauty, and fitness. Enjoy a vendor fair, special guest speakers, wellness demos, and fun activities like the Step & Spin Challenge. Collect stamps for prizes and giveaways while discovering how local experts can support your wellness journey. FREE and family-friendly!
Splash House
When: Friday-Sunday, August 8-10 & 15-17 · Times Vary
Where: The Riviera, The Saguaro & The Renaissance, Palm Springs
Dive into one of Palm Springs’ hottest summer events: Splash House returns August 8–10 and August 15–17. This iconic poolside music festival blends house beats, resort vibes, and after-hours parties for a weekend of sunshine, DJs, and nonstop fun. Soak it up at some of Palm Springs’ most stylish resorts for the ultimate desert summer experience.
Second Saturdays in Indio
When: Saturday, August 9 · 6pm
Where: Miles Avenue Park, 82540 Miles Avenue, Indio
Celebrate community vibes at Second Saturdays in Indio. This FREE monthly event brings Downtown Indio to life with live music, delicious food vendors, family-friendly entertainment, and a rotating lineup of local and regional performers. Every month offers something new—perfect for all ages and music tastes!
There’s no shortage of exciting and festive events happening across Orange County and the desert this August—it’s one of the countless reasons Southern California is such an incredible place to call home. Ready to embrace the ultimate Orange County or desert lifestyle? Connect with our real estate specialists at SurterreProperties.com and explore our exclusive listings today!
