Festivals in California, 2024

Music Festivals:

Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival (April):

Held in Indio, Coachella is one of the most famous music festivals globally. Featuring a mix of popular headliners and indie artists, its vast array of music genres attracts attendees from all over the world.

Stagecoach Festival (April):

Right after Coachella, Stagecoach takes place in Indio as well but focuses on country music. It features top names in country along with roots and folk musicians.

Outside Lands (August):

Set in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park, this music, food, and art festival draws huge crowds with its diverse lineup of performers ranging from indie rock to electronic and hip-hop.

Cultural Festivals:

Dia de los Muertos Celebrations (October-November):

Various cities such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego host Day of the Dead festivals. These events often include altar exhibitions, parades, and traditional Mexican music and dance performances.

Chinese New Year Parade (February):

San Francisco’s Chinatown comes alive with one of the largest Chinese New Year celebrations outside of Asia. Expect colorful dragon dancers, firecrackers, and cultural performances.

Food & Drink Festivals:

California Wine Festival (Santa Barbara, April; Dana Point, June):

Celebrating the state’s rich wine heritage, this festival offers tastings of local wines and gourmet foods, with ocean views and live music.

Gilroy Garlic Festival (July):

Known as the “Garlic Capital of the World,” Gilroy’s Garlic Festival offers a culinary celebration featuring garlic-infused foods, cooking demonstrations, and live entertainment.

Eat Drink SF (August):

A premier food festival in San Francisco, this event showcases the city’s top chefs and restaurants, offering food lovers a chance to sample gourmet dishes and drinks from local vendors.

Arts & Film Festivals:

Sundance Film Festival Satellite Events (January):

Though the main Sundance Festival happens in Utah, California hosts satellite events in cities like Los Angeles. Independent film lovers can enjoy screenings of award-winning films and documentaries.

Palm Springs International Film Festival (January):

Known for its glitz and glamour, this festival attracts A-list celebrities and showcases a wide range of international films.

Laguna Beach Festival of Arts and Pageant of the Masters (July-September):

One of the most famous fine arts festivals in California, it combines art exhibitions with the “Pageant of the Masters,” where famous artworks are recreated with live models.

Seasonal & Holiday Festivals:

Pasadena Rose Parade (January 1st):

Known for its iconic flower-covered floats, this New Year’s Day parade is a must-see and precedes the Rose Bowl game.

Christmas Boat Parade (Newport Beach) (December):

A festive spectacle where beautifully decorated yachts and boats sail through the harbor, adorned with holiday lights and decorations.

Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival (October):

Held in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park, this free festival features a wide range of bluegrass and folk music, attracting families and music lovers alike.

Upcoming 2024 Festivals:

BottleRock Napa Valley (May):

This wine country festival offers a blend of music, food, and craft beer, with a focus on Napa’s finest wines and local culinary delights.

Monterey Jazz Festival (September):

A premier jazz festival with performances from some of the biggest names in jazz, set along the scenic California coast.

Burning Man (August-September):

Though technically in Nevada, Burning Man draws thousands of Californians to the Black Rock Desert. The week-long festival of art, music, and self-expression is an iconic cultural event.

These festivals highlight California’s rich cultural and artistic diversity, making the state a prime destination for festival lovers throughout the year. From world-renowned music festivals to unique culinary events and cultural celebrations, there’s something for everyone in the Golden State!