Events
San Clemente Fiesta Music Festival
Aug. 8. The Fiesta Music Festival returns, transforming Avenida Del Mar into a lively celebration of music, food, and community. Enjoy live performances across multiple stages, local food vendors, arts and crafts, family-friendly activities, and a festive parade to kick off the day. Free shuttles and trolley service make getting there easy. One of San Clemente’s longest-running traditions, the festival offers a full day of entertainment while showcasing the city’s vibrant local culture and businesses. Saturday, 11 am.-6 p.m. 100 & 200 Blocks of Avenida Del Mar. More Information
Brea Fest
Aug. 7. Guests are invited to sample delicious food and beverages donated from local restaurants while listening to live music. Enjoy exhibitions in the Gallery, demonstrations, live theatre performances, shopping in market row and so much more. “Kidsville” is sponsored by North Hills Church and includes face painting, balloon animals, make-and-take crafts, a bounce house and kid friends foods. Friday, 6:30-10 p.m. Brea Civic & Cultural Center, 1 Civic Center Circle, Brea. More Information
Saturdays at Mercado Gonzalez
Aug. 8. Welcome to Sábados de Sonora, where you can experience live regional music, hands-on cooking classes, Bacanora and other complimentary spirit tastings, open-fire grilling, and family-friendly activities inspired by the traditions of Sonora. There’s something new to discover every weekend at Mercado González. With activities like kid’s classes in the morning to live entertainment in the evening, and more. Saturday, 6 a.m.-11 p.m. 2300 Harbor Blvd., Costa Mesa. More Information
Food + Drink
Anniversary Block Party
Aug. 8. It is time to celebrate 7 years of Ahba Laguna Beach with a massive massively fun block party this weekend. Starting at 4 p.m. guests can celebrate and enjoy $2 beers, $10 burgers – yes, THE Ahba burger – and free mini soft serve. Come soak in the sunshine and community that ahs made this south Laguna Beach spot such a beloved favorite. Saturday. 31732 Pacific Coast Highway, Laguna Beach. More Information
Din Tai Fung Opens at Brea Mall
Aug. 7. Hand-folded xiao long bao arrive in North Orange County inside a new 14,000-square-foot restaurant featuring expansive indoor seating, an outdoor patio and an open kitchen where guests can watch the dumpling-making process. Reservation-only limited service begins Aug. 7, followed by the grand opening Aug. 31. Hours vary. 1065 Brea Mall, Brea. dtf.com
DJs at Bei
Aug. 7. Bei Restaurant and Bar in Costa Mesa – where guests can get a taste of Beirut right in their backyard – is making Fridays a little more lively, with DJ Night at Bei, featuring a belly dancer show and more. Enjoy great food, a full bar, good vibes, and an unforgettable atmosphere. Friday, dancing and DJ begins at 8 p.m. Reservations available online, or by calling 949.799.0064. 1951 Harbor Blvd. #B, Costa Mesa. More Information
ROL Hand Bar La Habra Opens
Now Open. The new restaurant will feature 32 seats surrounding ROL’s signature hand roll counter, where guests can watch chefs prepare each order moments before it is served. Designed to mirror the modern, intimate layout of the Fountain Valley location, the space places guests at the center of the experience, emphasizing the craftsmanship, freshness, and immediacy that define Japanese dining. Located inside Imperial Plaza at 1202 S. Idaho St., La Habra. More Information
Arts + Culture
Last Call: Ocean Encounter at Discovery Cube
Now-Aug. 23. Dive into five ocean zones through hands-on exhibits exploring coral bleaching, plastic pollution and kelp forest decline. Guests can step inside a full-scale submarine experience, watch live science demonstrations and discover practical ways to protect marine ecosystems. Continue the journey at Sea Lab, where visitors can gently touch live sharks and rays while learning about California’s coastal habitats. Open daily from 10 a.m.–5 p.m. 2500 N. Main Street, Santa Ana. discoverycube.org
Patti LaBelle and The O’Jays
Aug. 6. Legendary soul icons Patti LaBelle and The O’Jays bring decades of timeless R&B hits to the Pacific Amphitheater at the OC Fair on Fans can expect an evening of classics, powerhouse vocals, and unforgettable performances from two of music’s most celebrated acts. Concert tickets include same-day admission to the OC Fair, making it the perfect opportunity to enjoy fair food, exhibits, rides, and a night of legendary live entertainment. Thursday at 7:30 p.m. 100 Fair Dr., Costa Mesa. More Information
Seaside Studio
Aug. 8. Spend an afternoon learning the art of watercolor from award-winning artist Jason Li, who will guide participants through essential techniques and the observational skills that bring a painting to life. This hands-on workshop offers the opportunity to learn directly from a master of the medium, whether you’re picking up a brush for the first time or looking to sharpen your practice. Saturday at 11 a.m. 307 Cliff Drive, Laguna Beach. More Information
SUMMER STAGE: WE The People
Aug. 6-9. Laguna Dance announces SUMMER STAGE: WE The People, a new live dance performance series across multiple venues in Laguna Beach. The series is a celebration of community, creativity, and collaboration that connects local beauty with global artistry. The 4-night event features both FREE & TICKETED performances. Locations, event schedules, and ticket information available here.
Photo credits: All other images are courtesy of the businesses and venues.
