March in Orange County and Coachella Valley is a herald of spring. Get ready for a plethora of engaging activities and events that cater to every taste and interest!
From the lush, flowering valleys of Orange County to the serene, sun-drenched expanse of Coachella Valley, the regions exude vibrant energy. Whether you’re drawn to exhilarating outdoor adventures, sophisticated cultural gatherings, or delectable dining experiences, there’s something to entice every explorer. Gear up to immerse yourself in the diverse and dynamic spirit of Southern California as we journey through the most anticipated and thrilling March events. Keep reading to make the most of this enchanting month!
Central Orange County
OC Lantern Festival 2024
When: Saturday, March 2 · 11 am
Where: Renee and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa
Advance tickets are sold out, but a standby line will be available at the Lantern Festival this Saturday! This FREE event invites families to celebrate the Year of the Dragon with Pacific Symphony. The ancient Lantern Festival welcomes spring and family reunions. It’s a time to release past burdens and embrace future hopes. Together with the South Coast Chinese Cultural Center, the event offers music, dance, art, riddles, and food. The concert hall lobby will light up with lanterns, and the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall will host performances by local artists.
Orange County Restaurant Week
When: Sunday, March 3 – Saturday, March 9 · Times Vary
Where: Various restaurants throughout Orange County
Embark on a gastronomic journey with OC Restaurant Week. Dive into a world of enticing menus hand-picked for this event. There are a myriad of restaurants and culinary experiences to choose from. Don’t miss this annual chance to savor unique flavors and dishes crafted just for this occasion!
Aloha Fair
When: Sunday, March 3 · 10 am – 4 pm
Where: 16160 Beach Boulevard, Huntington Beach
Experience Polynesian enchantment with live Hawaiian music and dance at this FREE festival. Immerse yourself in island culture as you shop for unique arts and crafts, savor Hawaiian shave ice from food trucks, and enjoy a family-friendly atmosphere. Head to the BJ’s, Party City, and AAA parking lot complex for a day filled with aloha!
Hug & Groom Rescued Horses
When: Sunday, March 3 · 11 am – 1 pm
Where: Huntington Central Park Equestrian Center, 18381 Goldenwest Street, Huntington Beach
Join the Free Rein Foundation for their monthly Hug & Groom event! It’s a unique opportunity to meet, groom, and bond with the incredible horses rescued by the foundation. These horses play a vital role in equine-assisted therapy programs, offering healing and comfort. During the event, you’ll get hands-on experience caring for four to six of these special animals. Friendly volunteers will be there to introduce you to each horse and guide you through the process!
20th Anniversary Kite Party
When: Saturday, March 9 – Sunday, March 10 · Times Vary
Where: Huntington Beach Pier (north and south side), 200 Pacific Coast Highway, Huntington Beach
Visit the Huntington Beach Pier for an unforgettable kite extravaganza! Watch skilled kite flyers perform dazzling displays on both sides of the pier. This event welcomes everyone to observe and even fly their own kites in designated areas beyond the main field. Enjoy spontaneous professional demonstrations all day. No registration required for spectators—open and FREE to all!
South Orange County
Dana Point Festival of Whales
When: Friday, March 1 – Sunday, March 3 · Times Vary
Where: Dana Point Harbor, 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point
Dive into the Dana Point Festival of Whales, a celebration of sea life and coastal culture! Dana Point becomes a maritime wonderland, honoring the breathtaking whales migrating past our shores. Experience a world of ocean-themed fun, from whale watching to conservation talks, all set against the backdrop of Dana Point’s stunning seascape. The festival, now in its 53rd year, offers activities and insights for everyone. Celebrate the ocean’s marvels and the spirit of community at this unforgettable gathering where the wonders of nature meet cultural festivity. Come down for an adventure where the ocean’s grandeur comes to life!
Tomatomania!
When: Friday, March 1 – Sunday, March 10 · 9 am – 6 pm
Where: Roger’s Gardens, 2301 San Joaquin Hills Road, Corona del Mar
The ultimate tomato plant sale returns to Roger’s Gardens for its thirteenth year! Dive into the biggest, most exciting tomato plant sale globally, hosted by Scott Daigre and the Tomatomaniacs. Discover a stunning array of more than 250 heirloom and hybrid tomato plant varieties, featuring new additions for 2024. Plus, don’t miss the debut of the eagerly awaited Tomato of the Year!
2024 Patriots Day Parade
When: Saturday, March 2 · 10 am – 1:30 pm
Where: Parade starts at Laguna Beach High School on Park Avenue, proceeds down Park Avenue to Glenneyre Street and turns right, proceeds to Forest Avenue and turns right, proceeds up Forest Avenue to City Hall, and disperses down Ocean Avenue, Laguna Beach
Since its inception in 1967, the Patriots Day Parade has been a yearly highlight every first Saturday in March. The parade showcases a diverse array of participants, including civic and veterans’ organizations, school bands, floats, vintage cars, and quirky novelty groups. It’s also a time to pay tribute to local heroes who have contributed to the community and individuals who have served the country during wars or national crises. The theme for this year’s parade is “Laguna Heritage” — come on out and celebrate!
Hoag Classic
When: Wednesday, March 20 – Sunday, March 24 · Times Vary
Where: Newport Beach Country Club, 1600 East Coast Highway, Newport Beach
For one special week, Newport Beach and Orange County become the center of attention worldwide. Crowds gather at the Newport Beach Country Club, creating an electrifying atmosphere. This tournament is a highlight of the PGA TOUR Champions! The Hoag Classic stands out for its philanthropy, raising over $20 million for local charities, including Hoag. It also supports our military through its Military Appreciation Day, benefiting groups like the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation and more.
Egg-A-Pool-Looza
When: Saturday, March 23 · 1 – 5 pm
Where: William Woollett Jr. Aquatics Center, 4601 Walnut Avenue, Irvine
Welcome spring at this pool party celebration, complete with a poolside egg hunt, family splash time, and even a chance to snap photos with the Easter bunny. Kids can bounce around in the inflatable houses, get creative with spring crafts and games, and even get their faces painted. Treats will be available for purchase. Safety is a top priority, so lifeguards will be on duty. This event is for children aged 14 and under.
Ocean Institute’s Speakeasy Circus
When: Saturday, March 23 · 6 – 11 pm
Where: Ocean Institute, 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point
Step into a night of wonder at the Ocean Institute’s circus-themed gala. Experience a fusion of entertainment and philanthropy, set against a backdrop of magical acts and culinary wonders. Prepare for an evening filled with enchantment, sumptuous food, and lively dancing at this unique circus celebration. Best of all? There’s live music by Casey Abrams.
Swallows Day Parade + Mercado Street Faire
When: Parade: Saturday, March 23 · 11:00 am; Mercado: Saturday, March 23 · 9 am – 5 pm
Where: Parade: Mission San Juan Capistrano, 31414 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano; Mercado: Historic Town Center Park, 31872 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano
Famed for their faithful return, the swallows of San Juan Capistrano are celebrated with an annual homecoming parade. This has been renowned as the largest non-motorized parade in the nation. This year, the parade carries the spirited theme “Saddle Up San Juan.” It weaves through the downtown area, prompting street closures by 10am, and features an all-day mercado. The mercado offers a children’s play zone, entertainment, and over 100 booths for an engaging community experience!
Sensational Springtacular
When: Saturday, March 30 · 9 am – 12 pm
Where: Vista Hermosa Sports Park, 987 Avenida Vista Hermosa, San Clemente
Come on down for an incredible day! The Sensational Springtacular will be filled with bunny meet-and-greets, lively music, springtime games, summer camp deals, and much more. Secure your pre-sale wristbands now — and save $5 when buying multiple wristbands together.
Desert Cities
Palm Springs Art Festival
When: Saturday, March 9 – Sunday, March 10 · 10 am – 5 pm
Where: Frances Stevens Park, 538 North Canyon Drive, Palm Springs
Celebrate 40 years of artistic excellence at the Palm Springs Art Festival. Experience a vibrant day filled with art and culture in Frances Stevens Park. This milestone 40th anniversary event showcases an array of local and regional talent, presenting unique creations across all art forms. Think fine crafts, clay, glass, jewelry, paintings, photography, sculpture, wood, and more. Discover and acquire exquisite pieces to cherish forever at the Palm Springs Art Festival!
Taste of Indio
When: Thursday, March 14 · 4 – 7 pm
Where: Coachella Valley History Museum, 82616 Miles Avenue, Indio
Step into the world of exquisite flavors at the 8th Annual Taste of Indio event. Set against the enchanting backdrop of the Coachella Valley History Museum in Downtown Indio, this event promises a night filled with diverse and rich tastes from Indio’s finest restaurants. Enjoy an evening of lively entertainment, savory tastings, museum tours, and a cash bar.
Fashion Week El Paseo
When: Friday, March 15 – Thursday, March 21 · Times Vary
Where: Various venues throughout Palm Springs
Luxury, art, and fashion converge in an extraordinary week as the globe’s renowned designers unite to showcase their creations. Experience this unique event in Greater Palm Springs and immerse yourself in the fashion trends of the present, future, and beyond!
Palm Desert Food + Wine Festival
When: Thursday, March 21 – Sunday March 24 · Times Vary
Where: The Gardens on El Paseo, west side upper level parking deck, 73-545 El Paseo, Palm Desert
Dive into a four-day culinary adventure featuring top national chefs, exquisite wines, and interactive cooking demos. The event kicks off with a James Beard Gourmet Luncheon, followed by grand tastings offering a taste of local and regional delights. You’ll also enjoy a selection of over 60 wines and craft beers. Experience the pinnacle of gastronomy in the Coachella Valley, where extraordinary talent and breathtaking views converge for an unparalleled culinary experience.
Of course, there are too many amazing events throughout Orange County and the desert this March 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.
