The Dana Point Festival of Whales

March 6 – 8, 2026 at Dana Point Harbor

The Dana Point Festival of Whales returns March 6–8, continuing a proud coastal tradition that began more than five decades ago. Founded by local visionary Don Hansen, whose passion for whale watching helped put Dana Point on the map, the Festival has grown into one of the longest-running celebrations of its kind in the country. This year’s milestone anniversary will be especially meaningful with the longawaited return of the Festival’s beloved “Magical Migration” Parade.

Set against the stunning backdrop of Dana Point Harbor, the Festival honors our city’s identity as the Dolphin & Whale Watching Capital of the World. Each year, thousands gather to witness gray whales traveling along our coastline during one of the longest migrations of any mammal on the planet. Whale watching excursions, marine education programs, and hands-on ocean experiences allow visitors of all ages to connect with the marine environment in unforgettable ways.

The return of the Parade brings an extra spark of excitement to this year’s celebration. Families will gather along the Harbor as marching bands fill the air with music and colorful floats created by local schools, nonprofits, and community groups make their way down the route. It’s the kind of joyful hometown tradition that brings generations together — grandparents, parents, and kids all sharing in the moment — and creates the memories that keep families coming back year after year.

Festival weekend will also feature signature favorites including the Blessing of the Whales kick-off event at the Ocean Institute, Clam Chowder Cook-Off, Dinghy Dash, Concert on the Water, Festival of Whales Carnival, live entertainment, educational lecture series, and family-friendly activities throughout the Harbor. These events create lasting memories while supporting local nonprofit organizations that serve our community year-round.

Whether you’re a longtime resident or first-time visitor, this year’s Festival is a chance to celebrate our ocean heritage and experience Dana Point at its very best.

Mark your calendars for March 6–8, 2026 – and join us for a weekend of whales, waves, and community.

Visit FestivalOfWhales.com for the full schedule and details!

The 66th Annual Swallows Day Parade

The 66th Annual Swallows Day Parade and Mercado Street Faire returns in all its glory on Saturday, March 21 to Downtown San Juan Capistrano. The Street Faire runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with the parade starting at 11 a.m. This year’s Swallows Day theme, “Trails, Tails & Traditions – 250 Years!,” relates to The Mission San Juan Capistrano’s celebration of 250 years here in 2026. The parade will feature equestrian groups from all over the state, with wagons, carriages, floats, re-enactment troupes and marching bands — a fun-filled family-friendly event!

Since 1960, the Annual Swallows Day Parade has been one of the largest non-motorized parades in the nation. The festivities are a reminder of the city’s equestrian heritage and pays homage to the swallows and their annual return to San Juan Capistrano. The Parade, Fiesta Grande, Hoos’ Gow Day and related events are produced by the all-volunteer organization, the San Juan Capistrano Fiesta Association. All funding comes from the community in the form of sponsorships, donations, fundraisers and merchandise sales. The week of Swallows Day offers a trough of happenings. On Wednesday, March 18 from 6 to 10 p.m., the festivities kick-off with the Fiesta Grande at Swallows Inn. Cowboys can compete in a variety of competitions including Best Moustache, Hairiest Man, and Best Beard, while cowgirls vie for Best Outlaw Woman, Best Prairie Girl and other categories. Friday of Swallows Day week includes Hoos’ Gow Day throughout the downtown area. The sheriff and his deputies will be rounding up city slickers not wearing Western gear as well as clean-shaven men, requiring a donation to the Fiesta Association to cover their bail. Come down and check out the hilarious antics. Afterwards at 4 p.m., head over to Los Rios Park with the kids for the 9th Annual Frog-Jumping contest.

The Mercado Street Faire will be happening all day long during Swallows Day, boasting some incredible vendors, live country music, a kid’s zone and plenty of food! The Fiesta Association would like to thank the food vendors who will be serving their delights in the Mercado and the multiple sponsors who helped to support the faire.

For more information on all Swallows Day festivities, please visit www.SwallowsParade.com.

Let The Festivities Begin

South OC is decking the halls, lighting the trees and rolling out the fun. Whether you’re after twinkling lights, hometown parades or merry markets, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate the season in style.

SAN CLEMENTE
In San Clemente, the annual Santa’s Village by the Sea and Puttin’ on the Glitz is December 6 from 4 – 9 p.m. This family-friendly celebration transforms the area around the community center into a winter wonderland, featuring live music, food, hot chocolate, popcorn, games, and even a sledding hill. Local businesses create a fun and festive evening of late-hours holiday shopping and dining, with carolers and street musicians on Avenida Del Mar. Don’t miss Santa’s arrival — starting at the top of Del Mar at 4:30 p.m. The festivities culminate with the lighting of the community Christmas Tree.

DANA POINT
Dana Point’s Holidays at the Harbor runs nightly through the new year. Visitors can enjoy strolling through the harbor’s holiday lights while snapping a picture at the Merry Kiss Me light display. On December 6, Dana Point will also host its Jolly Trolley event, where Santa and his elves will visit various parks to distribute pre-packaged treats, with the final stop at La Plaza Park for the Tree Lighting ceremony and holiday celebration. Mark your calendar for the annual Boat Parade of Lights taking place December 12 to 14 at 6:30 p.m. Boaters decorate their vessels and vie for awards, creating a dazzling display on the water. Lastly, on December 8, Pines Park’s Tree Lighting will take place from 4:30 – 5:30 p.m. As part of the tree lighting, Santa and his elves will arrive at Pines Park on his Jolly Trolley to hand out pre-packaged treats for children up to 12 years of age. Residents are requested to bring an unwrapped toy for the Toy Drive.

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO
The city will host their annual Christmas Tree Lighting Celebration on December 6 at Historic Town Center Park. Beginning at 4 p.m., attendees will enjoy pre-show entertainment, a holiday stage production, and the tree lighting countdown set to begin at approximately 5:45 p.m. Afterwards, locals can stroll over to Los Rios Street and meet costumed characters and enjoy free family activities, including pictures with Santa. The historic Mission San Juan Capistrano kicks off Capistrano Lights on December 19. Visitors will enjoy holiday performances, including Dickens-era carolers, selfies with Santa and beautiful light displays. Capistrano Lights will run on select evenings through December 30, with a nightly tree lighting at 5:05 p.m.

LAGUNA NIGUEL
On December 6 from 5 – 8 p.m., Laguna Niguel will celebrate their Tree Lighting Ceremony at 5:30 p.m.! Enjoy cookie decorating, holiday crafts, games, live entertainment, special moments with Santa, and more. Be sure to gather for the magical annual Holiday Parade taking place on December 13 from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Experience the unique sights and sounds of the holidays with decorative parade floats, marching bands, youth groups, and exotic cars. No parade would be complete without a visit from Santa!

48th Annual Dana Point Turkey Trot

This Thanksgiving, families are invited to lace up their running shoes and take part in one of Southern California’s most cherished holiday traditions—the Dana Point Turkey Trot.

For over 40 years, this iconic event has brought together thousands of runners, walkers, and spectators to celebrate Thanksgiving with a fun, active start to the day. Known for its playful tagline, “Run the race before you stuff your face,” the Turkey Trot offers participants a chance to enjoy a scenic run along Dana Point’s beautiful coastline before indulging in their holiday feast.

The event caters to all ages and abilities, making it the perfect family-friendly outing. Participants can choose between two 5K races, a 10K, or opt for the 15K combo race, all offering breathtaking views of the harbor, beaches, and surrounding cliffs. Kids can get in on the action too, with the one-mile Kids’ Gobble Wobble—a fun run for children 12 and under that lets the youngest racers enjoy the excitement of race day.

The Dana Point Turkey Trot is more than just a race—it’s a community tradition. Many families return year after year to spend their Thanksgiving morning together, creating lasting memories and enjoying the festive atmosphere. With racecourse entertainment, a health and wellness expo, and plenty of post-race refreshments, the event offers a full day of fun for everyone.

Join the thousands of runners and walkers who make the Dana Point Turkey Trot part of their holiday tradition. Register today and spend Thanksgiving morning making memories at this beloved community event. This event tends to sell out each year!

WANT TO SAVE ON REGISTRATION?

Use code TURKEYDISH when signing up to receive $5 OFF per registration (exclusive to The Local Dish readers). This is the perfect opportunity to gather the whole family or invite friends to join in on this festive community event!

Visit TurkeyTrot.com.

San Clemente Ocean Festival

The Original “The Greatest Show on Surf” Returns

Before the Olympics land on our sand, experience the original coastal showdown that’s been making waves for nearly five decades. The San Clemente Ocean Festival is back for its 47th year and this one’s set to shine brighter than ever.

Join us July 19–20, 2025 at the iconic San Clemente Pier for a weekend packed with athletic feats, beachside beats and sun-drenched fun for the whole crew. From lifeguard legends and groms to dory teams and bodysurfers, watch as wave warriors compete for glory, medallions and local bragging rights.

SATURDAY HIGHLIGHTS:
– National Doryman Association Races (cue the splash zone)
– Groms Rule^® Surf Contest: Push-In Division
– 12th Annual Dolphin Dash Kid’s Beach Run
– FREE sunset concert featuring A Bunch of Guys (not Creedence, but close enough)
– BBQ dinner on the sand, blankets encouraged
– Woodies on the Pier—vintage rides + salty vibes

SUNDAY STOKE:
– More grom action in the surf
– 2nd Annual Bodysurfing Invitational
– Sand Sculpting Competitions
– The legendary Great Rubber Duck Race
– VWs Buses on the Pier—good vibes + classic rides

ALL WEEKEND LONG:
– Youth Pavilion packed with crafts, games & beachside fun
– Ocean-inspired Art Show in Parque del Mar
– Pancake breakfast by the SC Lifeguards (stack ‘em high, support the tribe)

Admission is FREE and getting there is easy; ride the train or hop on our complimentary shuttle from San Clemente High School.

Irvine Greek Fest

A Taste of Greece

45th Annual Irvine Greek Fest

Get ready to be Greek for a day—or an entire weekend—as the beloved Irvine Greek Fest returns for its 45th year at St. Paul’s Greek Orthodox Church. From June 20–22, the church campus at 4949 Alton Parkway transforms into a lively celebration of food, culture, music, and family fun. This long-running tradition has been a summer highlight since 1980, drawing crowds from across Orange County.

Festivalgoers can enjoy authentic Greek cuisine, boutique shopping, live entertainment, and cultural experiences. The “agora” marketplace features artisan vendors, a bookstore, and a kids’ zone with carnival rides. Live Greek music by the Takis Kokotas Band and folk dancing by the Agape and Zoi youth groups (Saturday & Sunday at 3 and 5 p.m.) keep the energy going all weekend.

Food is a major highlight, with a menu full of time-tested favorites—lamb, gyros, saganaki, spanakopita, dolmathes, Greek salad, and pastichio— plus sweets like baklava and the crowd-favorite loukoumathes (honey-drenched doughnut holes). Stop by the kafenio for Greek coffee and frappés, or the taverna bar for Greek beer, wine, and a big screen showing weekend sports.

Guests can also tour the church’s stunning interior, featuring 20,000 square feet of handcrafted mosaic iconography—some of the most unique sacred artwork in Orange County. Church tours run throughout the weekend and offer insight into Orthodox Christianity’s rich heritage.

Festival hours are Friday 5 to 10 p.m., Saturday noon to 10 p.m. and Sunday noon to 9 p.m. Admission is $5 for adults; children under 12 are free. Seniors 65+ receive free admission Saturday from noon to 5 p.m., and veterans, military, and first responders are always free. Free parking and shuttle service are available from the Lake View Senior Center, and bike racks are on-site.

Proceeds benefit the ministries and outreach of St. Paul’s Greek Orthodox Church. For more info, visit IrvineGreekFest.com or follow @irvinegreekfest on social media.

ST. PAUL’S GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH
4949 Alton Pkwy, Irvine | 949.733.2366 | IrvineGreekFest.com

47th Annual Dana Point Turkey Trot

This Thanksgiving, families are invited to lace up their running shoes and take part in one of Southern California’s most cherished holiday traditions—the Dana Point Turkey Trot.

For over 40 years, this iconic event has brought together thousands of runners, walkers, and spectators to celebrate Thanksgiving with a fun, active start to the day. Known for its playful tagline, “Run the race before you stuff your face,” the Turkey Trot offers participants a chance to enjoy a scenic run along Dana Point’s beautiful coastline before indulging in their holiday feast.

The event caters to all ages and abilities, making it the perfect family-friendly outing. Participants can choose between two 5K races, a 10K, or opt for the 15K combo race, all offering breathtaking views of the harbor, beaches, and surrounding cliffs. Kids can get in on the action too, with the one mile Kids’ Gobble Wobble—a fun run for children 12 and under that lets the youngest racers enjoy the excitement of race day.

The Dana Point Turkey Trot is more than just a race—it’s a community tradition. Many families return year after year to spend their Thanksgiving morning together, creating lasting memories and enjoying the festive atmosphere. With live entertainment, a health and wellness expo, and plenty of post-race refreshments, the event offers a full day of fun for everyone.

Join the thousands of runners and walkers who make the Dana Point Turkey Trot part of their holiday tradition. Register today and spend Thanksgiving morning making memories at this beloved community event.

Want to save on registration? Use code TURKEYLD24 when signing up to receive $5 OFF per registration (exclusive to The Local Dish readers). This is the perfect opportunity to gather the whole family or invite friends to join in on this festive community event!

47th Annual Dana Point Turkey Trot
Dana Point Harbor
949.496.1555
TurkeyTrot.com
X (Twitter): @turkeytrot
Facebook: @danapointturkeytrot

The 69th Fiesta Music Festival to be Held on Sunday, August 11th

Three Stages of Live Music • Food & Beverages • Business Expos and More!

The San Clemente Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to announce that the 69^th Fiesta Music Festival will take place on Sunday, August 11, 2024, from 10am-7pm on the 100 and 200 blocks of Avenida Del Mar.

The Fiesta is a city-partnered summer celebration for the entire family– an all-day festival for residents and visitors to enjoy. Through their participation, local nonprofit organizations earn funds that finance local youth scholarships, community events and giving initiatives.

With downtown closed to traffic, Avenida Del Mar will be filled with live music from three stages throughout the day. In addition to popular performers on the upper and lower stages, this year’s main stage headliners include: Long Beach Dub All Stars, Buck-O-Nine, Tijuana Panthers, 3LH, Ted Z and the Wranglers, Wes Chiller and Grooveswitch.

Patrons will enjoy delicious food booths, arts and crafts vendors, marketing booths, games and exhibits. Dozens of downtown shops and restaurants will also be open for business. Additionally, the kids’ zone will run from 10am-5pm in the parking lot, adjacent to the library.

To support easy event access, two main bike corrals will be available– one in front of the Community Center at Avenida Del Mar, and the other in the alleyway next to Artifex, behind South of Nick’s. Enter the opportunity drawing for a chance to win an e-bike and bike accessories from EPIC Power Bikes.

A free shuttle service will run from 10am-7pm from San Clemente High School, located at 700 Avenida Pico. The city’s trolley will also run from 10am-8pm, with pickup at the Outlets at San Clemente, in front of Starbucks. A modified downtown trolley schedule will begin running on Saturday evening starting at 6pm through Sunday at 8pm, with stops throughout the downtown area. For those coming from out of town via train, take Metrolink’s Orange County and IEOC lines to the San Clemente Pier Station.

The San Clemente Chamber of Commerce would like to thank our generous 2024 Presenting Sponsors: The City of San Clemente, Left Coast Brewing Company, Sunwest Bank, CR&R Environmental Services, Rod’s Tree Service and South Coast Water District.

2024 Contributing Sponsors include: Casablanca Inn, COA Entertainment, ECS Payments, EPIC Power Bikes, GarageRock! Records, MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center, Ocean Estate Law, OCTA/Metrolink, Orange County Supervisor Katrina Foley, Power Plant Records, Rareview Creative Agency, Rainbow Sandals, Raya’s Paradise San Clemente, ROOS STUDIOS, San Clemente Times, San Clemente Journal, SDG&E, San Clemente Villas by the Sea and  SoCal Sound.

“We appreciate San Clemente’s support and look forward to seeing you at the 69^th Fiesta,” said Chamber of Commerce Director of Operations Arlen Flores.

The Fiesta Music Festival is free to attend. Enhanced safety checks will be implemented. Bags, strollers, etc. will be subject to search and no outside alcohol or weapons of any kinds will be permitted. Non-consent will result in denial of entry. Also, styrofoam and non-support animals are not permitted, per the city’s event ordinance.

Contact the chamber office for more details at info@scchamber.com or visit our Fiesta event page at scchamber.com

About San Clemente Chamber of Commerce
The San Clemente Chamber of Commerce is a voluntary organization of business and professional men and women who have joined together for the purpose of promoting the general welfare and prosperity of the local business community. The Chamber’s mission is to protect the free enterprise system, champion business and strive for a healthy economy and a better quality of life in our community.

San Clemente Ocean Festival

July 20-21

The San Clemente Ocean Festival is returning to the San Clemente Pier on July 20th and 21st, with newly replenished sand on the beaches! Enjoy an action-packed weekend where lifeguards, junior lifeguards, swimmers, bodysurfers, multi-sport athletes, and young surfers compete for medallions and cash prizes. Don’t miss the National Doryman Association Races on Saturday, with two-person teams paddling 300-pound dory boats through the surf.

On Saturday, watch the Groms Rule® Surf Contest and the 12th Annual Dolphin Dash Kid’s Beach Run, featuring nearly 200 children, south of the pier. As evening falls, spread out your beach blanket and enjoy a barbeque dinner and a free concert featuring Creedence & Co.

Throughout both days, the Youth Pavilion will be full of games, crafts, and entertainment for families. Car enthusiasts can admire 15 different Woodie cars each day and explore an ocean and beach-themed art show in Parque del Mar.

Start each day with a pancake breakfast prepared by the San Clemente Lifeguards. Proceeds support the San Clemente Surf Lifesaving Association.

On Sunday, watch the continuation of the Groms Rule® Surf Contest, the NEW! Bodysurfing Invitational, and the Sand Sculpting competitions. Sponsor a duck in the Great Rubber Duck Race!

To avoid traffic and parking hassles, park for free at the Outlets at San Clemente and take the shuttle, or ride the train directly to the festival. For event registration, volunteering, and more information, visit www.OceanFestival.org.

ADMISSION IS FREE.
For more information about the different activities, a complete schedule of events, to register for competitions and contests, or to volunteer, please visit the website at oceanfestival.org.

Irvine Greek Fest

44th Annual Irvine Greek Fest

A tradition since 1980, St. Paul’s Greek Orthodox Church will hold its 44th Annual Irvine Greek Fest on June 21, 22, and 23. The festivities will take place at St. Paul’s Greek Orthodox Church in Irvine. A family-fun event, the Irvine Greek Fest offers something for everyone. Much like a Greek street fair, the festival will offer amazing Greek food and pastries, an “Agora” (marketplace), boutique shops, kids’ play zone, live Greek music all weekend and Greek folk dance. Event attendees can also enter an opportunity drawing.

The Irvine Greek Fest will take place from 5 to 10 p.m. on Friday, 12 to 10 p.m. on Saturday, and 12 to 9 p.m. on Sunday. All parking is free at Lake View Senior Center and shuttles transport attendees to the front gate of the festival.

“We’re delighted to invite everyone to be “Greek for a day,” with all of the food, music, dancing, and family fun our Festival has to offer!” says Father Steven Tsichlis, Senior Pastor of St. Paul’s Greek Orthodox Church. “Wander the grounds of our campus and savor the wonderful aromas and tastes of Greece while listening to the sounds of the bouzouki! You’ll feel like you’re in Greece!”

This year’s menu of traditional Greek food offers time-tested and perfected favorites including lamb, Greek French fries, Gyros, Pastichio (Greek lasagna), Loukaniko (Greek sausage), Spanakopita (spinach and feta cheese pie), Dolmathes (stuffed grape leaves) and more.

Greek beer and wine will be available in the Taverna bar.

All proceeds from the event benefiting St. Paul’s ministries and their charitable outreach. Festival admission is $3 per person with children under the age of 10 admitted free. Seniors 65+ are admitted free on Saturday from Noon to 5pm. Veterans, active service military and families, and first responders are always free. This year, all dads and grads are FREE on Sunday, June 23rd! Please visit www.IrvineGreekFest.com for more information.

St. Paul’s Greek Orthodox Church
4949 Alton Pkwy, Irvine
949.733.2366
IrvineGreekFest.com