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Let the Good Times Roll

Dana Point Events

Explore Dana Point's diverse event calendar, where coastal charm meets cultural vibrancy. From lively festivals and artisan markets to maritime celebrations and culinary showings, there's always something exciting happening in this picturesque Southern California town. Join locals and visitors alike in enjoying the unique blend of entertainment, community gatherings, and outdoor activities that make Dana Point a destination worth discovering year-round.

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Dana Point Festival of Whales

Dana Point Harbor 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, CA

The 53rd Annual Dana Point Festival of Whales returns March 1-3, 2024 to the Dana Point Harbor. Celebrate the return of the California gray whales as they grace our coast during their annual, awe-inspiring migration. Families and friends of all ages can enjoy a weekend of fun-filled activities and events including a Parade, Concert on […]

Stand Up To Trash Beach Cleanup and Lunch & Learn

Ocean Institute 24200 Dana Point Harbor Dr, Dana Point, CA, United States

What would happen if everyone picked up at least one piece of trash? Join Stand Up To Trash for a day of fun on the water, beach and surrounding areas to cleanup our natural world. We encourage the “BYOB” philosophy (bring your own bucket or reusable bag, reusable gloves, water bottle or coffee cup) to help […]

Welcoming of the Whales Kickoff Ceremony & Reception

Ocean Institute 24200 Dana Point Harbor Dr, Dana Point, CA, United States

The Festival of Whales and Ocean Institute invite you to a sunset welcoming ceremony by members of the local Acjachemen Nation, along with a Dana Point Surf Club paddle out at the Marine Protected Area beach behind the Ocean Institute. Following the beach ceremony, a reception will be held inside the Ocean Institute. The event […]

Festival of Whales Cardboard Classic & Dinghy Dash

Baby Beach 34445 Ensenada Pl, Dana Point, CA, United States

Westwind Sailing is honored to host the 8th annual Cardboard Classic & Dinghy Dash during the Dana Point Festival of Whales! This event is a fun-filled, family-oriented day that includes a cardboard boat building contest and race (the Dinghy Dash), business boat exhibition and public vote, food, event celebrity emcee – Jim Taylor, music and […]

Festival of Whales Clam Chowder Cook-Off

Baby Beach 34445 Ensenada Pl, Dana Point, CA, United States

Come join the fun at the 12th Annual Fish for Life Clam Chowder Cook-Off during Festival of Whales on Saturday, March 8 from 11am-3pm. The cost to taste all chowders is $15. Adults 21 years or older with a valid driver’s license can enjoy a $7 drink garden featuring Tito’s Vodka, Los Molinos Beer and […]

2025 Festival of Whales

Dana Point Harbor 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, CA

Save the date for the 54th Annual Festival of Whales happening March 7-9, 2025! Welcome to the Dana Point Festival of Whales, where oceanic wonders and coastal celebrations collide! We invite you to immerse yourself in a maritime extravaganza like no other. Nestled in the heart of Dana Point, our festival pays homage to the […]

Festival of Whales Art in the Park

Dana Point Harbor Walkways near Island Drive 24500 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, CA, United States

During the Festival of Whales, browse through booths of local artisans presenting artwork in a variety of mediums including painting, photography, gems & fossils, art glass & sea glass, wood, pottery, jewelry, textiles, and much more.

Festival of Whales Concert on the Water & BBQ

Baby Beach 34445 Ensenada Pl, Dana Point, CA, United States

Bring your beach chairs and blankets to enjoy an afternoon of music, food, and spirits! This FREE concert is held at Baby Beach in the Dana Point Harbor with the bands playing on a specially designed floating dock. Band Lineup: 1:00-2:30pm: Upstream 3:00-4:30pm: Surf's Up BBQ specialties will be available to purchase, served by the […]

Event Series Festival of Whales Carnival

Festival of Whales Carnival

Lantern Bay Park 25111 Park Lantern, Dana Point, CA, United States

The City of Dana Point invites you to the Festival of Whales three-day carnival, a spectacular celebration with ocean views! Friday, March 7 | 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM Saturday, March 8 | 3:00 PM – 10:00 PM Sunday, March 9 | 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM     Bring your family and friends to enjoy an […]