California’s biggest summer festivals and events
California is known for beautiful weather, celebrities, movies, surf and fun. In particular, the state’s summer music festivals, wine and film events, and food fairs are huge attractions for residents and tourists alike. As a California native, I experienced many of these and can say they are sure to offer a good time! So, get out your calendar and start planning, here are California’s biggest summer festivals and events.
Outside Lands Music and Arts Festival
This festival offers a wine tasting tent, local organic farmer’s market, wonderful music and food all in the shadow of the beautiful Golden Gate Bridge. Held every summer in Golden Gate Park, this party is one of the most exciting summer events of the San Francisco summer. This year you can catch it from August 5- August 7th.
Vans US Open of Surfing
“Surf City, U.S.A.,” a.k.a. Huntington Beach, California hosts the US Open of Surfing every year with amazing pros showing off their skills and winning medals. This multi-day surfing celebration and beach party is the largest surf event in the world. They are also skateboarding and BMX events, bands, movies, car shows, and more. It’s the perfect event for any surfing fan, or ocean lover. In 2016, check it out from July 23, July 30th
Los Angeles Film Festival
This week-long event includes varied feature-length movies, eclectic shorts produced by local students, and music videos. Special events include poolside chats with movie stars and filmmakers, music and film occasions at the Grammy Museum, and more. This year it will run from June 1st through the 9th.
California State Fair
Folks come to the capital city of Sacramento each July from all over from near and far for this extravaganza that includes stimulating exhibits, remarkable attractions, live entertainment, and much more. Eating, drinking and being merry is what the state fair is all about. This year you can catch the fair from July 8th-24th.
Temecula Valley Balloon and Wine Festival
About 40,000 attendees come from near and far to experience this event. Over three days of fun, balloons, and wine, visitors and residents enjoy the stunning hot air balloons and delicious award-winning wines. They can also enjoy live music and entertainment. This year it will be held from May 20th to the 22nd.
The Untz Festival
The Untz Festival takes place at the Mariposa Fairgrounds in Mariposa, California and is a 3 day music and entertainment event with a pre-party, camper area, and more. Join the fun from June 2nd-4th this year.
Country Summer
This event is full of performances by country music artists. Those stars and hit songs are the main attraction, but the event is truly a tourist destination in and of itself. Western-themed attractions, country-inspired food and plenty of delicious drinks abound. Join the fun from June 3rd to the 5th!
FYF fest
Los Angeles, California is home to the FYF Fest, which was founded in 2004. The 4 stage affair showcases many varieties of music as well as art, and more. The fest’s night market is a place where people can buy food while watching the concerts. This year plan for August 27-28.
Huck Finn Jubilee
This event is meant to respect and encourage evolution of bluegrass music. At the festival, visitors will find an array of performers: including national Grammy nominated and award-winning bands. In 2016, catch it from June 10th-12th.
Whether you love wine, music, food, art, outdoor activities, or sports; California has something to offer. There is no better time to visit than the summer when it’s warm and the festivals and events are going on all over the state!
