It’s officially Summer, which means the days are longer, the nights are warmer, the cocktails are colder, and the season’s events are about to kick off!
Living in Orange County, we are provided so many options when it comes to entertainment, and during the summer months, the list of offerings seem to grow extensively. With a wide selection of summer outings, here are our top picks for events to attend this summer that are perfect for date night, family night, or taking a group out on the town!
1. Summer Concerts in the Park
Location: Multiple
When: June- August
From June to August, Summer concerts around Orange County kick off with new groups taking the stage each weekend. Each with their own style of music–from reggae to jazz to cover bands– they provide the perfect setting to pack a picnic and hang out with friends while listening and dancing to some of your favorite tunes.
2. Cooking with Chef Mead | Summer Cocktails
Location: Roger’s Gardens, Corona del Mar
When: June 24
The Farmhouse at Roger’s Gardens has received raved reviews for their seasonal menu filled with innovative bites and fresh libations. Lead bartender Anthony Laborin is taking you on a guided cocktail tour showing you how to make perfect summer cocktails with the seasons freshest ingredients.
3. Sawdust Festival
Location: Laguna Beach
When: June 29- September 2
The famous Sawdust Festival attracts people from all over the world (200,000 to be exact) to experience the outdoor arts and crafts festival while sipping wine, listening to live music, and mingling with the local artists. Watch as they create beautiful art pieces right in front of you or partake in complimentary hands-on workshops. The festival even entertains the kids with a children’s art booth and refreshments making it the perfect outing for the family!
4. Old Glory Boat Parade
Location: Newport Beach Harbor
When: July 4
The Old Glory Boat Parade invites boaters to decorate their vessels according to the theme, which this year is Valor – Through the Generations. Spectators are invited to watch as the boats pass by in hopes of winning “best dressed” at the event! As an attendee, you will have the option to indulge in a pancake breakfast, listen to rock and jazz music, and watch the incredible fireworks display at this all day event!
5. Pageant of the Masters
Location: Laguna Beach
When: July 7 – September 1
Arguably one of the most unique productions in the world, the Pageant of the Masters gives you an artistic experience unlike any other. Situated in an outdoor theater, witness the incredible theatrical performance where famous works of art are brought to life onstage. A narrator guides you through the experience, telling the story behind each art piece while an orchestra plays its original scores. Be sure to bring binoculars, a blanket, and seat cushions!
6. The Orange County Fair
Location: Costa Mesa
When: July 13 – August 12
The iconic OC Fair is an Orange County staple. Both locals and tourists flock to the much-anticipated entertainment hub to pet llamas, eat deep-fried, bacon-wrapped, sugar-coated fare, play carnival-style games, ride thrilling rides, watch headlining acts at the Pacific Amphitheater, and check out the artistic abilities of the locals. A fun event for all ages, The Orange County Fair is the perfect way to spend a warm summer day or night.
7. Ocean Festival
Location: San Clemente Pier
When: July 21-22
The San Clemente Ocean Festival is a volunteer organization committed to the development and provision of ocean safety, the environment, and the community. The event provides an incredible venue for world-class athletes, residents, and visitors to participate in an abundance of activities such as a 5K run, SUP surfing competition, one-mile ocean swim, kid’s Dolphin Dash and surf contest, ocean art show, live performances, and so much more. For volunteer opportunities check out their website above!
8. 10th Annual Lobsterfest
Location: Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort, Newport Beach
When: August 5
An event that sells out every year, Lobsterfest is an annual beach party at the Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort. Live Maine lobster is flown in fresh in the morning and prepared onsite for the feast. With plenty of admission styles, from general to VIP, there are so many options to choose from when it comes to enjoying delicious food and complimentary premium wines!
9. San Clemente Fiesta Street Festival
Location: San Clemente
When: August 12
Taking over two blocks of scenic Avenida Del Mar, the 65th annual music and food festival plays host to a selection of entertainment offering something for every attendee! Listen to live music all day long, snack on delicious bites, partake in the fun salsa challenge, play contests and games, view the incredible arts, crafts, and motorcycle show, and get the kids involved in an array of activities that fills the day!
10. Pacific Wine & Food Classic Festival
Location: Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort, Newport Beach
When: August 18
Regarded as one of the best food and wine festivals in the world, the Pacific Wine and Food Classic was acknowledged by the International Food, Wine, and Travel Writer’s Association as one of the top ten food and wine festivals in the world. Serving up gourmet summer inspired fare, the festival is an inventive west coast epicurean event that shouldn’t be missed. The all-inclusive experience not only showcases local chef’s and their incredible cuisine preparation skills, but also serves up 150 wines, cold beer, and craft cocktails for a day filled with flavor and fun.
