Best End Of Summer Events To Attend in Orange County
Summer always seems to go by way too fast, even in the warm and sunny climate of Orange County. As the days grow shorter, though, Orange County plays host to many events that close out the summer months with style. 2016 sees the return of some popular festivals that celebrate art, culture and great music. Many are great opportunities for quality family time before the school year begins. Before settling into the fall, check out the last precious moments of an OC summer.
Insomniac Nocturnal Wonderland
San Manuel Amphitheater & Grounds
2575 Glen Helen Parkway
San Bernardino, CA 92407
www.nocturnalwonderland.com
Date: Sept. 2-4, 2016, 4 p.m. to 2 a.m.
In Orange County, you can stay home and grill over Labor Day weekend or head to San Bernardino for something delightfully different. This year is the 21st year for the Insomniac Nocturnal Wonderland, a popular dance music festival. Though the venue shuts down at 2 a.m. each night, camping is available next to the festival site. Previous editions of Nocturnal Wonderland featured arts and crafts as well as early morning yoga. Break the 9 to 5 routine this summer through a musical romp in San Bernardino.
Sawdust Art Festival
935 Laguna Canyon Road
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
(949) 497-9229
www.sawdustartfestival.org
Date: Through Sunday, Aug. 28, 2016 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Celebrating its 50th year, the Sawdust Arts Festival, affectionately known as the Sawdust, started as a grassroots movement by artists moving into the Laguna Beach area. In the ensuing years, the organization has grown to support winter festivals and philanthropic art programs throughout the year. The summer event, which takes place in a eucalyptus grove, features live entertainment along with the arts and crafts. The artists also are happy to demonstrate their crafts to interested visitors, too.
Pageant of the Masters
Festival of the Arts
650 Laguna Canyon Road
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
(949) 494-1145
www.foapom.com
Date: Nightly at 8:30 p.m. through Aug. 31, 2016
For decades, Laguna Beach has been a place where art comes alive, especially during the annual Pageant of the Masters. A blend of music, makeup and acting talent, the pageant is a 90-minute stage show that uses people to recreate works of art. This year's theme is "Partners," which honors pieces that came about due to great collaborations, such as artist and model. Ticket prices for Pageant of the Masters are lower during the week; it's also easier to park and enjoy what Laguna Beach has to offer during that timeframe as well.
Related: Best Art Museums In Orange County
Ghost Town 75th Anniversary
Knott's Berry Farm
8039 Beach Blvd.
Buena Park, CA 90620
(714) 220-5200
www.knotts.com
Date: Through September 5, 2016
As the summer days get shorter, Knott's Berry Farm transforms plays host to Calico, a town in the Wild West. Things are always changing in this town, and guests get to be a part of the action. This year, you also can look inside the sheriff's office and take a ride on a wooden roller coaster. Of course, Knott's also has other fun attraction and some great chicken dinners as well.
Global Village Festival
Bill Barber Park
4 Civic Center Plaza
Irvine, CA 92606
www.legacy.cityofirvine.org
Date: September 24, 2016 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Over the years, Irvine has become a cultural melting pot, and this event celebrates the diversity in a fun and entertaining way. The first Multicultural Festival began in 1998 and has since grown in size and popularity. Visitors can enjoy various art, dance and musical performances as well an international cross-section of food.
