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March
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 Festival
of Whales - Dana Point
March 6-8, 2026
The
annual Dana Point Festival of Whales celebrates
the return of the once-endangered California Gray
Whale with a leviathan-size event. In addition
to whale watching at the height of whale watching
season, festival includes a kick-off parade, Sand
Sculpting, Ocean Awareness Day, musical entertainment,
on-the-water Concert, Whale of a Block Party,
Art Shows, Pancake Breakfast, BBQs, Kids Interpretive
Crafts, Classic Car Exhibits, Lectures/Seminars
at multiple venues including the Ocean Institute,
Historic Walking Tours, Paddling Events, Sailing/Rowing/Kayak/SUP
Demos, plus much more!
LOCATION:
Dana Point Harbor
Dana
Wharf Whale Watching Cruises!
Dana
Wharf Whale Watching is offering special cruises
during this event! Buy tickets online at www.danawharf.com or call (949) 496-5794 for more information! |
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 GEMfest - Newport Coast
Saturday, March 7, 2026
GEMfest is more than a conference -- it is a festive celebration where middle school girls can get information and inspiration to take on middle school, high school and the world! GEMfest attendees will hear inspiring keynote speeches, learn about local businesses and non-profit organizations at our marketplace and attend their choice of hands-on workshops teaching skills for success such as public speaking, finding your drive, coding or self defense
GEMfest is for Middle school girls in grades 6 through 8 who want to meet like-minded peers, connect with high school students who just get it, and learn from inspiring and approachable female mentors to develop healthy habits for life.
LOCATION:
Sage Hill School
20402 Newport Coast Drive
Newport Coast, CA |
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 Pacific
Symphony: Lantern Festival - Costa Mesa
March 7, 2026
11 am
Free Family event! Join us as the concert hall lobby becomes transformed for the festivities with lanterns created by community members and the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall is opened up to the public for performances featuring local music and dance groups. You’ll have the opportunity to decorate your very own lantern, take in live music, try your hand at solving a riddle,take in cultural demonstrations and more!
The Lantern Festival, which can be traced back 2,000 years, takes place 15 days after the Lunar New Year—on the first full moon night in the lunar calendar—and marks the return of spring, representing the reunion of family.
LOCATION:
Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall
615 Town Center Drive,
Costa Mesa, CA 92626 |
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 El
Presidente Ball - San Juan Capistrano
Saturday March 7, 2026
6-10pm
Journey back to the late 1800s of early California
and let the Fiesta Association show you how "the
West was fun" at this western style dinner dance.
Enjoy some great food and old-fashioned fun while dancing under the stars (weather permitting) to live country-western style music.
LOCATION:
El Adobe de Capistrano
31891 Camino Capistrano
San Juan Capistrano
INFORMATION:
949-615-1920 |
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 Knott’s Boysenberry Festival - Buena Park
Daily, March 13 - April 12, 2026
The Knott's Boysenberry Festival is our annual food and wine festival that celebrates the park's historic roots by highlighting the little berry that started it all, the boysenberry. Indulge in a tantalizing lineup of dishes ranging from savory foods with a boysenberry twist to one-of-a-kind specialty desserts and drinks including a variety of wines and craft beers that you can only find at Knott's Berry Farm during this limited-time food-inspired event.
In addition to the numerous food and drink offerings, the Knott's Boysenberry Festival offers a wide selection of local crafters, live music, musical stage shows, and fun activities for guests of all ages to enjoy.
LOCATION:
Knott's Berry Farm
8039 Beach Boulevard
Buena Park |
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 OC Wine & Spirit Fest St. Patrick’s Celebration - Silverado
March 15, 2026
12:00 PM
Prepare for an engaging and distinguished event at the OC Wine & Spirit Fest St Patrick’s celebration. Join us in the sprawling grounds of the Giracci Vineyards and Farms, nestled in the picturesque Silverado Canyon of Orange County, for a day filled with joy and revelry. Indulge in the nonstop entertainment with 4 hours of unlimited tastings of exquisite spirits, brews, hard seltzers, and wines curated from around the world. Our event aims to redefine the tasting experience in Orange County, offering an atmosphere of luxury, combined with a casual coastal flair. Immerse yourself in the lively beats of live music, hit the dance floor with your friends, and explore our selection of lifestyle vendors as you sip and savor the finest libations. You will find food booths and food trucks offering food from all over the globe.
General Admission: $100.00 Noon – 4:00pm includes unlimited tastings of wine, brews and spirits VIP Admission: $125.00 Noon – 4:00pm - Includes a luxurious private area seating & hors d'oeuvres. Promo Codes are only good for General Admission tickets!!!
LOCATION:
Giracci Vineyards & Farms Cowboy Canyon Winery
16162 Jackson Ranch Rd.
Silverado, CA 92676 |
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 The
Muckenthaler Cultural Center Bugs, Bees and Butterflies Day
Wednesday, March 18, 2026
10am-2pm
Join us for another year of Bugs, Bees, and Butterflies Day and learn about the benefits of bugs in the garden!
This free event will include arts and crafts activities for kids, Artist Marketplace with eco friendly home and garden vendors, a book fair and Environmentally focused artwork
LOCATION:
The Muckenthaler Cultural Center
1201 West Malvern Avenue
Fullerton, California 92833 |
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 Swallows
Day Fiesta Grande - San Juan Capistrano
Wednesday, March 18, 2026
6-9 pm
Fiesta Grande is the kick off of the culmination of the Swallow’s Day Parade Season. Join your friends and make new ones at this care-free evening of fun and live music. Enter to win one of several (Best Belt Buckle, Best Western Hat, etc) categories. Select Judges will award the winners of each category with a special plaque and a $50 gift certificate from the Boot Barn!
LOCATION:
Swallow's Inn
31786 Camino Capistrano
San Juan Capistrano
INFORMATION
949-615-1920 |
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 Saint
Joseph's Day at the Mission
March 19, 2026
This historic celebration full of tradition, community, and festivity, is celebrated annually on March 19, marking the return of our famous swallows to Capistrano and the coming of spring – a time of renewal and rebirth.
Typical highlights of the day include: Ringing of the historic bells, Live Mariachi music, Community presentations, Native American Storytelling
LOCATION:
Mission San Juan Capistrano
26801 Old Mission Road
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675 |
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 Swallows
Day Parade & Mercado - San Juan Capistrano
Saturday, March 21, 2026
The
Parade takes place in down-town San Juan Capistrano.
This is the nation's largest non-motorized parade.
It is totally organized and presented by the San
Juan Capistrano Fiesta Association. Arrive early;
most street closures are by 10.00 a.m. The parade
begins promptly at 11 am.
The
Mercado is a Street Fair and Market Place where
you can eat, drink, and shop at over 100 booths.
It is THE place to be after the parade! Listen
and dance to the music of The Working Cowboy Band,
a traditional country music band.
LOCATION:
Dowtown San Juan Capistrano
INFORMATION
949-615-1920 |
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 Kidstock: Family Music and Arts Festival - Irvine
March 31 - April 11, 2026
Get ready to rock, roll, sway, sing, and bop! Because we’re bringing back Kidstock Music & Arts Festival! Enjoy live musical performances throughout the week and explore a mix of musical styles! Because of your generosity during Igniting Potential, Kidstock will be bigger, brighter, and more hands-on than ever!!
COST: Included with Museum Admission
LOCATION:
Pretend City Children’s Museum
29 Hubble
Irvine, CA |
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April
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 Veggiepalooza Plant Sale - Fullerton
April 10-12, 2026
Veggie Plant Sale! Many varieties of heirloom tomatoes, sweet, mild & hot peppers, and varietal veggies. Check out over 200 varieties of ornamental plants including California natives grown here at the Arboretum.
LOCATION:
Fullerton
Arboretum
1900 Associated Road
Fullerton
INFORMATION:
(714) 278.3407 |
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 Walk
MS - Costa Mesa
Saturday, April 11, 2026
Fun, festival-like event with a 1-3 mile walk. All routes are accessible, and mobility devices are welcome. The
National MS Society's mission is to end the devastating
effects of multiple sclerosis.
LOCATION:
475 Anton BL
Costa Mesa
INFORMATION:
(800) 486-6762 |
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 Imaginology - Costa Mesa
April 11-12, 2026
10 am - 4 pm
Each April, OC Fair & Event Center transforms into Imaginology, a free family event produced by OC Fair staff that focuses on STEAM education and hands-on learning.
Children, teens, families and school groups dig into science, technology, engineering, arts and math. Imaginology provides unique experiences for attendees of all ages – from preschool to high school, and their parents and grandparents – to build, create, play, observe and interact through activities that help them see the possibilities of a future in STEAM fields. Imaginology features makeshops, demonstrations, competitions, hands-on activities and entertainment, as well as food and fun. Youth competitions give students the chance to be recognized for their unique talent and accomplishments.
Admission is free. Parking is $15
LOCATION:
Imaginology at the OC Fairgrounds
88 Fair Drive
Costa Mesa, CA |
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 Good To Go Fair at Pretend City Children’s Museum - Irvine
Saturday, April 18, 2026
9 am - 1 pm
Pretend City Children’s Museum Good To Go Fair: A FREE Family-Friendly Event! This FREE event is perfect for families with children ages 0-5. Enjoy a variety of activities, resources, and services designed to support your child’s development and overall well-being.
Screenings Available: Check your child’s developmental milstones and receive valuable insights into their growth, Vision Screenings: Detect early signs of vision issues to ensure your child’s eyes are healthy, Dental Screenings: Keep your child’s smile bright and healthy with a free dental check-up, Assess your child’s emotional well-being and get support for their mental health. And more!
LOCATION:
Pretend City
29 Hubble
Irvine, CA 92618 |
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 Annual ACES Hot Rod Resurrection - Huntington Beach
Saturday, April 25, 2026
9 am - 1 pm
Aces Car Club is once again hosting their annual Aces Hot Rod Resurrection. This event is open to pre ’65 traditional hot rods and customs & vintage/blassic bikes only. Old World offers a very unique traditional German village backdrop for our unique collection of traditional hot rods and custom, combined with food, drink and live music!
FREE ADMISSION for Spectator. FREE PARKING.
LOCATION:
Old World Village Festival Hall
7561 Center Avenue #49
Huntington Beach |
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 Earth Day Events and Activities
April
Volunteer opportunities, hikes, festivals and more!
Earth Day is April 22 (and National Arbor Day is April 30!), but there are many celebrations and events throughout the month of April
LOCATION:
Various locations and dates. Click above for listings |
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 Bolsa Chica's Earth Day Festival - Huntington
Beach
April date TBA
10 am - 2 pm
Join Bolsa Chica State Beach, the Bolsa Chica Conservancy, and Huntington Harbor to celebrate Earth Day!
This three-site extravaganza will begin at Bolsa Chica State Beach. Come by Tower 28 for a beach cleanup to give back to the Earth and your community. Across the street at the Bolsa Chica wetlands, explore the number of booths to learn about our local wildlife. Continue to Huntington Harbor for more activities!
3 LOCATIONS:
Bolsa
Chica State Beach
Bolsa Chica Wetlands
Huntington Harbor Yacht Club |
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 Rose
Garden Tour
TBA
The Rose Society of Saddleback Mountain (RSSM) sponsors Elegant and Enchanting Garden Tours of four unique and innovative private gardens in south Orange County.
The self guided tour offers visitors magnificent floral and plant displays, garden architecture and ideas for environmentally sound garden practices. RSSM funds Horticulture and Plant Science-related scholarships for college and university students
INFORMATION:
949-837-2141 |
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May
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 Spring
Citrus Fair - La Habra
May
The
La Habra Chamber of Commerce will produce its
Annual Spring Citrus Fair — full of period charm
— showcasing the history of the La Habra Valley.
Event
will include entertainment, carnival rides, local
food, exhibits & character mascots. Free Admission
LOCATION:
La Habra Boulevard between Euclid and Cypress
Streets
Phone:
562-697-1704 |
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 Chili
at the Beach - Huntington Beach
Saturday, May
Chili Cook-Off and Salsa Tasting Contest.
In
addition there will be children's activities with
kid's games and entertainment, all benefiting
the Boys and Girls Club of Huntington Valley.
LOCATION:
Main St & Pacific Coast Highway
Huntington Beach
INFORMATION:
(714) 536-8300 |
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 Rancho
Days Fiesta
May
11 am to 3 pm
Come explore the rich history of Orange County's rancho era through hands-on activities, crafts, music, dance and more!
Activities and performances include:
- Native American and Folklorico dancing
- Early California ranching hands-on activities and exhibitors
- Music, piñata breaking and crafts for children
- Charro horse riding and roping demonstrations
- Historic buildings open, courtesy of the Amigos de la Colina docents
Pets are welcome outdoors only on leashes no longer than six feet. Event and parking are free.
LOCATION:
Heritage Hill Historical Park
25151 Serrano Road, Lake Forest
949-923-2230 |
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 Annual Cinco
de Mayo Fiesta
San Clemente
May
2-6 pm
The festivities include live entertainment, a Vendor Pavilion, and a Children’s Pavilion with inflatable games, face painting, Fun on the Run Mobile Recreation, and giant slides. The entire family will enjoy this event!
LOCATION:
Max Berg Plaza Park
1100 Calle Puente
San Clemente, CA
INFORMATION:
949-361-8264 |
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 Open Garden Day - Santa Ana
May
10 am - 4 pm
Experience the inviting neighborhoods of West Floral Park and Jack Fisher Park in North Santa Ana. You are invited to stroll through our variety of gardens throughout the day. Tranquil spaces, unique planting ideas and inspiring yard designs are open for your viewing.
This one day community event offers an array of activities: lovely gardens to tour, garden expert talks & demonstrations, vintage cars to peruse, a street full of vendors selling unique garden treasures, and gourmet food trucks with plenty of tasty treats.
LOCATION:
Neighborhoods of West Floral Park and Jack Fisher Park in North Santa Ana
INFORMATION:
714-836-9777 |
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 Anaheim Children's Festival - Anaheim
Saturday, May
11 am – 3 pm
The Anaheim Children’s Festival offers families and people of all ages the opportunity to enjoy exploring and making art together. The Children’s Festival includes booths, art projects, musical and performing groups, and plenty of fun for kids and families! All art activities are FREE to all participants!
The Anaheim Children’s Festival has been going strong for 32 years and it continues to grow under the umbrella of the Muzeo Museum and their commitment to the children of the Orange County area.
LOCATION:
Pearson Park
Lemon St. & Sycamore St.
Anaheim, CA |
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 Tustin
LobsterFest - Tustin
Saturday, May
An afternoon of FUN for the family - enjoy entertainment,
games, music and prizes.
The
Tustin Lobsterfest is an annual fundraiser event
that provides financial support for the programs
and services sponsored by the Tustin / Santa Ana
Rotary Club. All
net proceeds from this event help pay for local
Rotary programs throughout Tustin and Santa Ana.
LOCATION:
Peppertree Park – Corner of First and C street
Tustin, CA |
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 Santa Ana Zoo's Party for the Planet/Endangered Species Day - Santa Ana
May
11 am - 2 pm
Celebrate Earth Day and Endangered Species Day with a scavenger hunt and special activities.
General Public – free with price of admission; FOSAZ Members – FREE. City of Santa Ana Residents – FREE.
LOCATION:
Santa Ana Zoo
1801 E Chestnut Ave
Santa Ana, CA |
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 Balboa
Island ArtWalk - Balboa
Sunday, May
9am to 5pm
Over a mile of art and live music!
Balboa Island ArtWalk features 90 artists exhibiting paintings, fine jewelry, blown glass, sculpture, and photography. Spectators will enjoy live music throughout the day on three stages along the walk Admission is free
LOCATION:
1000 South Bayfront
Balboa Island, CA |
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 Taste
of Brea & Business Expo
May
5- 9 pm
Brea's Annual Foodie Extravaganza is here! Enjoy a delicious mix of food, drinks, and fun in Brea Downtown.
Come and enjoy dancing to live music with family and friends. Spend this evening strolling the Brea Downton enjoying tasty samples from our local Brea restaurants and beer/wine providers while reveling in the beautiful domain that Brea has to offer.
LOCATION:
Downtown Birch St. promenade |
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 Strawberry
Festival - Garden Grove
May
The
festival is a parade and carnival celebrating
the city's strawberry-growing history. Free admission!
LOCATION:
Euclid St & Main St
Garden Grove, CA
INFORMATION:
714-638-0981 |
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 Sigler Park Splash Pad - Westminster
Opening day May
Opens seasonally on Weekends
The Sigler Park Splash Pad is back Memorial Day weekend and is the coolest place to enjoy some summer fun! The Splash Pad is FREE to enjoy for all from 12:00 to 5:00pm on days of operation. Check out the hours below!
It’s also the perfect spot for your next birthday party, play date, or even a Summer Camp field trip! Reserve for your private party today!
LOCATION:
Sigler Park
7200 Plaza St.
Westminster, CA 92683
INFORMATION:
For more information, please call the Community Services & Recreation Department at (714) 895-2860 or email |
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 Magic at the Majestic with David Minkin - Anaheim
May
Reality is just a story.
Join David Minkin, International Champion of Magic, for an evening of World-Class Wonders at the Anaheim Majestic Garden Hotel. The show features breathtaking magic paired with captivating narrative. Watch as solid objects melt through one another, witness time travel, experience mind reading, and feel inspired by the personal stories that weave it all together. You are welcomed into a unique world of infinite possibilities. The show features original magic, and is designed for adults, but is suitable for those who are a mature 7+.
LOCATION:
Anaheim Majestic Garden Hotel
900 Disneyland Dr
Anaheim, CA 92802
INFORMATION / TICKETS:
Purchase tickets online
Or call 888-624-4233 for more information |
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 Memorial Day Events
Monday, May 25, 2026
List of ceremonies throughout Orange County honoring those who served our country.
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 VW Rare Vintage Air d’Elegance at Old World, Huntington Beach - Huntington Beach
Saturday, May
9am-3pm
Old World offers a very unique traditional German village backdrop for spectators to enjoy this unique and rare VW car show. At the event, you can shop the stores and purchase food & drink at the many different eateries. Don’t forget to make a restaurant reservation to dine at the Biergarten restaurant!
FREE ADMISSION for Spectator. FREE PARKING.
LOCATION:
Old World Village Festival Hall
7561 Center Avenue #49
Huntington Beach |
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 San Clemente Annual Car Show - San Clemente
Saturday, May
10 am - 3 pm
What began as a few classic car enthusiasts meeting at the San Clemente Community Center, has grown into a beloved annual car show which draws thousands of spectators to view almost 300 cars on historic Avenida Del Mar. From classics, rods, muscle to exotic cars, and vintage trailers, the San Clemente Car Show has something for everyone!
Bring the entire family down to see all the cool cars and the vintage trailers. There will be a fantastic live band, dancing, and Taxpros+ hosts a fun slot car racing game for kids of all ages.
LOCATION:
Show takes place in the 100 & 200 blocks Avenida Del Mar in historic downtown San Clemente. New for 2025, professional parking specialists Parking Concepts will facilitate the load-in process for all cars, making a faster and smoother for everyone. |
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 Silverado
Chili Cook-Off & Cinco de Mayo Festival -
Silverado
2026 date TBA
Cinco de Mayo Festival, Chili Cook-Off, LIVE MUSIC & Entertainment, Artists, Vendors, Family Activities, Petting Zoo, Beer & Wine Cantina, Food & Beverages
LOCATION:
Silverado Community Center Fairgrounds
27641 Silverado Canyon Rd
Silverado, CA
INFORMATION:
714-649-2820 |
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 Annual
Muckenthaler Motorcar Festival - Fullerton
2026 date TBA
A One-of-a-kind Automotive Cultural Event. Featuring
car rally, motor movies & Concours d'Elegance
and Horseless Carriage Tour. Live
performances in the outdoor amphitheater by The
Pleasure Tones on Saturday and Janet Klein and
Her Parlor Boys on Sunday. Proceeds benefit youth
arts education and outreach programs.
LOCATION:
Held at Muckenthaler Cultural Center
1201 W. Malvern Ave.
INFORMATION:
714/738-6595 |
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 Art Crawl Experience - Anaheim
- 2026date TBA
Art Crawl Experience or simply “ACE”, an auditory explosive art walk and arts festival has been acclaimed by local artisans as the Downtown Anaheim Arts District. During the evening of an ACE, attendees stroll amongst outdoor permanent art fixtures, such as Peter Shire’s illuminated birdhouse sculptures, to discover artists demonstrating their creative process live for curious onlookers.
LOCATION:
The crawl stretches from Anaheim Blvd., to Harbor Blvd. and along Center Street Promenade. Art lovers can walk, crawl or climb aboard the Anaheim Resort Transit (ART) for complimentary rides throughout Anaheim’s Art Crawl Experience.
INFORMATION:
714 956 3586 |
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 Soka
Peace Festival - Aliso Viejo
- 2026 date TBA
This free, day-long event marks the anniversary of our university’s dedication and is open to everyone! Enjoy eclectic programming of musical performances from contemporary artists, delicious food and drink selections, and a variety of exciting activities for the whole family
Please note that while admission is free, parking for visitors is $10. Parking is limited, we recommend arriving early and carpooling. Don’t miss out on this fantastic celebration of art, music, and community!
LOCATION:
Soka University
1 University Drive
Aliso Viejo, CA 92656
INFORMATION:
949-480-4081 |
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Irish Fest @ Old World Village
Annual
'Gardenfest'
Festival of Nations
Floral
Park Home & Garden Tour
South County Pet Expo
OC
MARATHON 
Annual Crawfish Festival
Greek
Festival
Scottish Fest 
