Is the summer heat getting to you? Don’t worry, Orange County and the Coachella Valley have plenty of cool events to keep you entertained.
From outdoor adventures to indoor escapes, there’s something for everyone. Let’s dive into the hottest (literally and figuratively) events in OC and the desert this August!
Central Orange County
US Open of Surfing
When: Saturday, August 3 – Sunday, August 11 · Times Vary
Where: Huntington Beach Pier
Get ready for an epic summer showdown! The world’s premier surf competition is back, and it’s bigger than ever. Witness history in the making as surfing’s elite battle it out for glory. But the action doesn’t stop there. Experience the thrill of X Games Vert Pro, rock out to live music, including a special Sublime performance, and explore a vibrant marketplace featuring top action sports brands. From yoga and art to athlete signings, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss this unforgettable beach party!
Summer Garden Party
When: Saturday, August 3 · 4 – 7 pm
Where: Sherman Library & Gardens, 2647 East Coast Highway, Corona del Mar
Come down for an enchanting evening at the 5th Annual Newport Beach Summer Garden Party. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the gardens while enjoying a delectable light supper by 608 Dahlia. Indulge in live music, exciting raffle and silent auction opportunities, and don’t forget to showcase your creativity with our garden party hat contest! Winners will be awarded for the most imaginative headpieces. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Habitat Explorer program, providing educational field trips for local elementary school students.
The Makers Hive Market at The CAMP
When: Saturday, August 3 · 11 am – 4 pm
Where: The CAMP, 2937 Bristol Street, Costa Mesa
Join us for a day of fun, food, and fabulous finds at The Makers Hive Market pop-up! Discover unique creations from local artisans, savor delicious bites from nearby eateries, and enjoy live music while snapping memorable photos. Your furry friends are welcome too!
Symphony in the Cities
When: Sunday, August 18 · 5:30 pm
Where: Great Park Live, 8000 Great Park Boulevard, Irvine
Pack a picnic and enjoy a magical evening under the stars at Symphony in the Cities! This beloved tradition returns with a vibrant blend of classic and contemporary music. Bring your family and friends for an unforgettable experience filled with live music, pre-concert fun, and a festive atmosphere.
Fight Club OC
When: Thursday, August 29 · Doors open 6 pm
Where: The Hangar, OC Fair + Event Center, 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa
Come out and see the best of the best duke it out in boxing matches and MMA fights! This is your chance to see the excitement of these sports up close and personal.
RELISH: A Food, Wine & Spirits Experience
When: Friday, August 23 – Sunday, August 25 · Times Vary
Where: VEA Newport Beach, 900 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach
Local star chef Jamie Gwen has partnered with celebrity event planner Nicole Hirsty Saine to create RELISH. This exciting three-day event offers a smorgasbord of experiences, including intimate cooking demonstrations, informative winemaker seminars, spirit tastings, and in-depth masterclasses. Imagine interacting with world-renowned chefs like Tyler Florence, Scott Conant, and Aarti Sequeira! This is your chance to mingle with culinary icons and gain insider tips.
Halloween Boutique Opening
When: Friday, August 30 · 9 am – 6 pm
Where: Roger’s Gardens, 2301 San Joaquin Hills Road, Corona Del Mar
Step into a world of enchantment at Roger’s Gardens’ Halloween Boutique. This Southern California haven is brimming with bewitching décor and exclusive finds to transform your home into a Halloween wonderland. From spooky to sophisticated, our curated collection offers something for every taste. Immerse yourself in the magic and discover the perfect pieces to elevate your seasonal celebrations!
Ceramics + Wine Night
When: Friday, August 30 · 6 – 8 pm
Where: Costa Mesa Ceramics, 1001 West 17th Street, Suite N, Costa Mesa
Join Costa Mesa Ceramics for a night of creativity and fun! This popular event is perfect for both beginners and experienced artists. Learn the art of wheel-throwing and hand-building while sipping on wine and enjoying great company. You’ll leave with two completed pieces ready to be glazed. All materials and instruction are provided. Bring your favorite beverage if you prefer!
South Orange County
Island Nights
When: Thursday, August 1 · 6 – 9 pm
Where: Ole Hansen Beach Club, 105 West Avenida Pico, San Clemente
Beach bums and music lovers unite! Island Nights at the Ole Hanson Beach Club promises a summer soirée filled with aloha spirit. Dive into live music, take a refreshing dip in the pool (swim test required for inflatables!), and let the kids unleash their creativity with arts and crafts. Fuel up on delicious food and drinks available for purchase while soaking up the summer vibes. Space is limited, so register early for just $7 or pay $10 at the door. Don’t miss this chance for an unforgettable evening under the stars! (Note: Online registration closes Wednesday before the event at 5 pm. Wristbands may be available at the door if not sold out. Adult chaperones are required for registered minors.)
Festival of the Butterflies
When: Saturday, August 3 · 10 am – 4 pm
Where: Los Rios Park, 31791 Los Rios Street, San Juan Capistrano
Come down to the 10th anniversary of this beloved community event! Immerse yourself in a world of enchantment as thousands of breathtaking butterflies take flight. Enjoy a day of free, family-friendly fun, including captivating entertainment, educational activities, and more.
Capistrano August Dressage Show
When: Saturday, August 3 – Sunday, August 4 · Times Vary
Where: Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park, 30753 Avenida La Pata, Rancho Mission Viejo
Witness the grace and athleticism of horse and rider at the August Dressage Shows held at the stunning Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park. Whether you’re a seasoned equestrian enthusiast or new to the sport, you won’t want to miss this captivating event. Enjoy the thrill of competition as riders of all levels showcase their skills in a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere.
69th Annual Fiesta Music Festival
When: Sunday, August 11 · 10 am – 7 pm
Where: 100 & 200 blocks of Avenida del Mar, San Clemente
Enjoy live music, delicious food, and family fun at the San Clemente Fiesta Music Festival! Explore unique arts and crafts, entertain the kids in the Kids Zone, and cool off with refreshing drinks.
2nd Annual Clean the Reef
When: Saturday, August 17 · 11 am – 2:30 pm
Where: Dana Point Ocean Institute, 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point
Join the Dana Point Ocean Institute for a day of cleanup and conservation. Come together to protect the precious underwater ecosystem and raise awareness about the challenges it faces. Enjoy a day in the water with fellow dive enthusiasts while making a positive impact on our planet. Don’t forget your dive gear and a trash bag to help keep our oceans clean! As a thank you for your efforts, there will be a raffle with exciting prizes!
Beatles Day – Sawdust Art Festival
When: Saturday, August 17 · 11 am – 10 pm
Where: 935 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach
Calling all Beatles and art lovers! Shake it up for Beatles Day at the Sawdust Art Festival! Laguna Beach’s unique artist village featuring over 180 local artisans selling handcrafted treasures in various mediums hosts a tribute day to one of the most famous bands in the world. Enjoy live music on three stages, take a complimentary art class, and be entertained by roaming performers!
San Juan Summer Nites ft. Flashback Heart Attack
When: Wednesday, August 21 · 6 – 8 pm
Where: Historic Town Center Park, 31872 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano
Grab your low-back lawn chairs and come out for a FREE ’80s concert in the park! Join Flashback Heart Attack under the stars for a night of dancing and dreaming. Along with music, discover food trucks, beer/wine vendors, local vendors, and activities for kids.
Surf ‘n Caribbean Reggae Festival
When: Saturday, August 31 – Sunday, September 1 · 11 am – 7 pm
Where: Vista Hermosa Sports Park, 987 Avenida Vista Hermosa, San Clemente
Feed the Hungry with good vibes and great music! Come down for a sun-soaked charity fundraiser and enjoy live reggae, delicious food, and fun for all ages.
Desert Cities
First Wednesday Art Walk
When: Wednesday, August 7 · 5 – 7 pm
Where: Backstreet Art District, 2652 Cherokee Way, Palm Springs
Every first Wednesday, rain or shine, Backstreet Art District invites you to an evening of art and inspiration. Explore a vibrant community of artists’ studios and galleries, offering a diverse collection of original artwork. Enjoy live entertainment and delicious food while you immerse yourself in the local art scene. Don’t miss this monthly tradition!
Splash House
When: Friday, August 9 – Sunday, August 11 · Times Vary
Where: Three resorts in Palm Springs (Margaritaville, Renaissance, and Saguaro)
Dive into three days of nonstop beats, poolside vibes, and unforgettable memories. Expect electric energy, house grooves, and disco fever as you float, dance, and soak up the sun! Weekend 1 passes available only.
Friday Nights on Pierson
When: Every Friday through August 30 · 5 – 9 pm
Where: Corner of Palm and Pierson, 11940 Palm Drive, Desert Hot Springs
Fuel up your Friday nights with delicious eats at the corner of Palm and Pierson. Every Friday from 5 to 9 pm, a variety of food trucks gather to offer a smorgasbord of culinary delights. So grab your friends, pick your perfect dish on wheels, and enjoy a casual and tasty way to kick off the weekend.
With endless amazing events happening throughout Orange County and the desert this August, it’s no wonder Southern California is a top place to live! Ready to embrace the ultimate Orange County or desert lifestyle? Contact our real estate specialists at SurterreProperties.com and search our exclusive listings today.
