As spring approaches, Orange County comes alive with a vibrant mix of festivals, cultural celebrations, and family-friendly events. Whether you’re a foodie, a nature enthusiast, or someone who loves immersing yourself in local traditions, March is packed with exciting activities for all ages. From the breathtaking spectacle of migrating whales to lively parades, historical festivities, and delicious seasonal flavors, there’s something for everyone. Get ready to explore the top events happening this month and make the most of everything Orange County has to offer!
Dana Point – Festival of Whales
March 7-9, 2025
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!
Newport Coast – GEMfest Saturday, March 8, 2025
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,s 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
Huntington Beach – Irish Fest @ Old World Village March 12-17, 2025
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
Weekend of Art – Los Alamitos
March 14-15, 2025
A 2-day visual and performing arts exhibition. Local artists to join us by submitting one to three works of art in the exhibition. Saturday will also include an arts & crafts vendor fair. We encourage all artists to participate in the exhibition as well as vendors in the arts & crafts fair.
LOCATION:
Los Alamitos Community Center
10911 Oak St.
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
San Juan Capistrano – El Presidente Ball
Saturday March 15, 2025
6-10 pm
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
Silverado – OC Wine & Spirit Fest St. Patrick’s Celebration March 16, 2025
noon – 4 pm
OC Wine & Spirit Festival was created to bring a modern tasting experience to the people of Orange County with luxe vibes and a laid-back coastal attitude. It will focus on fun and be complemented by global tastings that will include wine, craft beer, spirits, hard seltzers, and more. OC Wine & Spirit Festival offers an experience that is perfect for everyone and every taste. The OC Wine & Spirit Festival has partnered with several charities to benefit them with their mission to help others.
LOCATION:
Giracci Vineyards & Farms Cowboy Canyon Winery
16162 Jackson Ranch Rd.
Silverado, CA 92676
Anaheim – Magic at the Majestic with David Minkin
March 16, 2025
4 pm
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 a 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 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
Saint Joseph’s Day at the Mission
March 19, 2025
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 19, 2025
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 carefree evening of fun and live music. Enter to win one of several categories (Best Belt Buckle, Best Western Hat, etc.). 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
San Juan Capistrano – Swallows Day Parade & Mercado
Saturday, March 22, 2025
The Parade takes place in downtown San Juan Capistrano. It is the nation’s largest non-motorized parade, totally organized and presented by the San Juan Capistrano Fiesta Association. Arrive early; most street closures are by 10 a.m. The parade begins promptly at 11 a.m.
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
Daily, March 28 – April 27, 2025
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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