Events
41st Annual Maritime Festival
Sept. 12-14. The festival features a spectacular array of fun activities including visiting Tall Ships, Sails ‘n Ales Craft Beer Party, Cannon Battles, Pirate and Mermaid Ball, Beer Garden, Mermaids Swim Shows, and more. From the debut of The Californian, the Official Tall Ship of California, to whimsical additions like the Mermaid and Mateys Breakfast, and the flavorful U.S. debut of the American Burger Cup, this year’s festival is packed with dynamic programming for guests of all ages. The Ocean Institute, 24200 Dana Point Harbor Dr, Dana Point. More Information
San Juan Capistrano Skate Park Ready to Ride
Now Open. After nearly 20 years, the long-awaited skatepark nestled in the heart of San Juan Capistrano is finally completed and ready to welcome skaters of all ages and skill levels. Featuring an expertly designed layout, the park features everything from bowls, to transitions, flat and round rails, hubba ledges, and much more. Hours vary. 26091 Camino Del Avion, San Juan Capistrano. More Information
Creep It Real Orange County
Sept. 12-14. Come hang ten (or how ever many boney fingers you have), cause this year’s theme is where spooky season meets the beach. Blending haunted beach vibes with sunset chills and skeleton thrill, enjoy 3 days of creepy fun each night. Dive into a wicked mix of spooky shopping, social-worthy photo ops, live music, delicious food & drinks, roaming creeps ready for selfies and more. Friday-Sunday, from 4-10 p.m. Heritage Museum of Orange County, 3101 W. Harvard Street, Santa Ana. More Information
Food + Drink
American Burger Cup
Sept. 12-14. This weekend, Dana Point becomes the burger capital. Six food trucks will battle for the grand prize, joined by fries and desserts to complete this all-American feast, with a winner announced Sunday evening. Three days of flavor, music, and the ultimate burger experience at Dana Point Harbor. Don’t just hear about it — be part of it. Hours vary. 24200 Dana Point Harbor, Dana Point. More Information
G E M I N I Launch Party
Sept. 12. A new project from the team behind P10neer – the lauded Costa Mesa cocktail bar – and Hopper and Burr is set to take flight this weekend with an opening launch party complete with a DJ and more. The new project is designed to be an immersive wine bar, giving guests an intimate and relaxing experience as they imbibe on the best juice planet Earth has to offer. Friday, 6-11 p.m. 202 W 4th St, Santa Ana. More Information
Sushi and Sounds at Landers
Opens Soon. Blue Moon Sushi – and inventive, locally owned and sourced sushi pop-up – is bringing its tastes and talents to Landers Liquor Bar this weekend. A locally-loved venue known for live music and raucous fun, Landers is always a fun time out. Now, with the addition of Blue Moon Sushi, the night just got even better. Serving from 5-11 p.m. 2101 Harbor Blvd, Costa Mesa. More Information
Arts + Culture
I want it that way!
Now-Sept. 21. The blockbuster musical & Juliet features a playlist of iconic pop hits from the genius songwriter/producer Max Martin including “Since U Been Gone‚” “Roar,” “Baby One More Time,” “Larger Than Life” and “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” Don’t miss this pull-out-all the stops musical sensation that brings the audience to its feet. Now – Sept 21 only, at Segerstrom Center for the Arts. 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787. scfta.org
Fiestas Patrias
Sept. 13-14. Celebrate our local Hispanic and Latino communities at Santa Ana’s very own Fiestas Patrias. Open to all, the free weekend-long festivities include a parade and street fair, vendors, live music, carnival rides and more – all commemorating Mexican independence and celebrating the various Latin American communities that reside throughout Orange County. Street closures, event location, schedule of events, and more can be found here.
Jean Stern Presents: The Life and Art of George Brandriff
Sept. 14. Come for an illustrated lecture about the life and art of Laguna Beach artist George Brandriff who, by 1927, joined the Laguna Beach Art Association and built a studio in Laguna Beach where he painted in his free time. A dentist, Brandriff made a life-changing decision in 1928 when he chose to be a full-time professional painter and moved permanently to Laguna. Sunday, 10 a.m.-11 a.m. 307 Cliff Drive, Laguna Beach. More Information
Gershwin Swings: The Barclay Jazz & Beyond Orchestra
Sept. 12. Led by Shelly Berg, the Tom and Mayumi Adams Music Director, this 19-piece big band brings a fresh approach to the genre through new compositions, compelling arrangements of jazz classics. The performance will feature guest artists Patti Austin and Paquito D’Rivera and together, they will pay homage to the music of American composers George and Ira Gershwin. Friday at 8 p.m. 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine. More Information
Photo credits: All other images are courtesy of the businesses and venues.
