As we enter the month of March, Orange County gives us plenty of opportunities to explore and appreciate art, crafts, and its vibrant culture. Festival of Whales is celebrating 50 years that takes place in mid-march offering whale watching trips as well as other activities related to the ecosystems connected to whaling history. In addition to the Festival of Whales, the well acclaimed Swallows Festival takes place around Saint Joseph’s Day, where attendees can delight in the mission traditions through food and entertainment. Festivalgoers can also enjoy elaborate artisans with their world-renowned works, from ceramics to paintings exhibited at different venues in Orange County. With these events and more that occupy March in Orange County, there’s no shortage of celebrating culture, art, and unique crafts for everyone to see.
Dana Point – Festival of Whales
March 4-5, 2023
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, the festival includes a kick-off parade, Sand Sculpting, Ocean Awareness Day, musical entertainment, an on-the-water Concert, a 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, Historical 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!
San Juan Capistrano Saint Joseph’s Day at the Mission
March 19, 2023
Live mariachi music, community presentations, Special Guest “Swallows Speakers”, Mission Basilica School performances, ringing of the historic bells and History of St. Joseph’s Day and Swallows Legend
Location:
Mission San Juan Capistran
Ortega Hwy
INFORMATION:
949-234-1300
San Juan Capistrano – Swallows Day Fiesta Grande
Wednesday, March 22, 2023
6-9 pm
This night of Old West entertainment consists of four contests rolled into one! Best Dressed Old West Man, Best Dressed Old West Woman, Best Belt Buckle, and the Hairiest Man (best mustache and/or beard). So don your finest Old West outfit, belt buckle, or facial hair! and enter one or more of the contests. There is a $5 entry fee (pay when you arrive) per category for each contestant entered.
For the timider, spectators are always welcome at the hilarious Fiesta Grandé.
LOCATION:
Swallow’s Inn
31786 Camino Capistrano
San Juan Capistrano
INFORMATION
949-615-1920
San Juan Capistrano – Swallows Day Parade & Mercado
March 25, 2023
The Parade takes place in downtown 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:
Downtown San Juan Capistrano
INFORMATION
949-615-1920
Buena Park – Knott’s Boysenberry Festival
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. This year’s event will introduce entirely new food offerings featuring a selection of more than two dozen food and drink items.
LOCATION:
Knott’s Berry Farm
8039 Beach Boulevard
Buena Park
Huntington Beach – Arts & Crafts Show
March 12th & 26th, 2023
Come out and shop from 10-4 pm and see over 50 unique, hand picked artisans and crafters as they showcase their latest designs, collections, products, and one-of-a-kinds! Successful crafters Justin & Ryan Clayton-Palmer @TheBottleArtCompany have created a new take on an old tradition.
FREE Admission & Parking. Presented by RC Palmer & Co.
LOCATION:
Old World Village
7561 Center Ave.
Huntington Beach
Huntington Beach – Irish Fest @ Old World Village
March 17th -19th, 2023
Come down to the Biergarten in Old World Huntington Beach for great food, drinks, and live music! During Irish Fest, Corned Beef & Cabbage and Irish Stew will be served at the Biergarten!
LOCATION:
Old World Village
7561 Center Ave.
Huntington Beach
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