As the leaves begin to change and the crisp autumn air settles in, Orange County comes alive with a vibrant tapestry of events and festivities that make October a truly magical time of the year. From charming fairs that harken back to simpler times to lively festivals celebrating the rich diversity of this Southern California paradise, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, grab your calendars and get ready to immerse yourself in the enchanting world of October events in Orange County.
Huntington Beach Oktoberfest
September 17 through November 5, 2023
Wednesday through Sunday
Join us for a new casual drinking and dining experience in our spacious outdoor patio and Biergarten. Come enjoy the sounds of OKTOBERFEST with German Music, Food, and of course, Imported Beer. OKTOBERFEST is different this year due to the pandemic. Please note masks will be required upon entry and at all times when not seated at your designated area.
LOCATION:
Old World Festival Hall
7561 Center Avenue
Huntington Beach
INFORMATION:
714-696-TAP1 (8271)
Corona Del Mar Annual Sandcastle Contest
Sunday, October 1, 202310 am to 4:30 pm
Hosted by the Commodores Club of the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce, thousands of sightseers will descend on “Big Corona Beach” to view amazing sand sculptures created by participants ranging from novice to expert.
Whether you’re a participant or a spectator, it’s a perfect way to spend the day with family and friends.
LOCATION:
Corona del Mar State Beach
(Marguerite & Ocean Blvd., Corona del Mar)
INFORMATION:
949-729-4400
Costa Mesa Orange County Children’s Book Festival
Sunday, October 1, 2023
The Orange County Children’s Book Festival is designed specifically for children of all ages. This family-fun festival attracts more than 30,000 visitors who will be entertained and delighted by authors, illustrators, booksellers, animals, storytellers, costumed characters, train rides, crafts, food and entertainment, and much much more.
Admission and parking are free.
LOCATION: Orange Coast College
2701 Fairview Road
Costa Mesa
INFORMATION:
(714) 838-4528
Tustin Tiller Days
October 6-8, 2023
Tustin Tiller Days has been a regular event in Tustin since 1957. The event provides an opportunity for Tustin to celebrate Orange County’s agricultural heritage. Features Parade (on Saturday at 10 am), carnival, rides, food and entertainment.
No admission fee
LOCATION: Columbus Tustin Middle School and Recreation Center
17952 Beneta Way Tustin, CA 92780
Tustin, CA 92780
INFORMATION:
714-573-3326
Laguna Beach Laguna Beach Plein Air Painting Invitational
October 7-15, 2023
The Laguna Beach Plein Air Painting Invitational will be held in Laguna Beach, a famous seaside community and historic artist colony. North America’s most renowned plein-air landscape painters will compete for prestigious prizes and participate in the week of events, including public paint-outs and artist meet and greets.
LOCATION
Festival of Arts Grounds
Laguna Canyon Road
Laguna Beach
Glitterfest – Fullerton
Sunday, October 8, 2023
This event features a collection of creative folks who express their talent through mixed media art. It includes handmade jewelry, sculptures, primitive dolls, paper whimsy, and much, much more!
LOCATION:
Spring Field Banquet & Conference Center
501 N Harbor Blvd
Fullerton, CA 92832
San Clemente Carnival Colossal October 12-15, 2023
San Clemente’s four-day Carnival Colossal and Food Truck Festival is offering thrill rides, games, food, a one-day Special Needs Resource Fair, and two days of games of strength presented by the International Highland Games Federation.
LOCATION:
Vista Hermosa Sports Park
987 Avenida Vista Hermosa
San Clemente
Newport Beach Newport Beach Film Festival
October 12-19, 2023
Set in beautiful Newport Beach, a few blocks away from the spectacular coastline and less than an hour from Hollywood, the Festival annually hosts several premieres and galas for a singular festival experience. This year’s festival will be screening over 100 feature films and 30 short film programs in Orange County.
LOCATION:
Various theaters in Newport Beach, Costa Mesa & Santa Ana
CONTACT:
949-253-2880
Dana Point Doheny Wood
Saturday, October 14, 2023
The show is free to woodie owners and spectators. The state beach does have a park entry fee. Over 150 Classic Woodies and Beachcruisers. Food, friends, fun, raffles, and awards.
LOCATION:
Doheny State Beach [south end of the park]
Dana Point, CA
INFORMATION:
714 968-9798
Irvine Irvine Global Village Festival
Saturday, October 14, 2023
10 am–6 pm
Annual festival representing cultures from around the world; international cuisine; kids’ crafts and activities; cultural and religious exhibits; and an international marketplace. Immerse yourself in cultural displays, indulge in international cuisine, explore the International Marketplace, and keep the little ones in motion with many activities.
Festival admission and parking are free.
LOCATION: Orange County Great Park
6000 Great Park Blvd.
Irvine, CA
INFORMATION:
949-724-6606
Silverado Annual Silverado Country Fair and Folk Festival
October 14-15, 2023
The Annual Silverado Country Fair and Folk Festival is one of the best family events of the season, which explores the wonders of the area’s Old West rustic culture, great live Bluegrass, Country, and Folk music, Wild West reenactments, handmade arts and crafts, 1800’s activities & lock ’em up makeshift jail, tasty food, beer & wine saloon, plus some silly ‘ole time contests, all nestled under the Oak trees below Orange County’s famous Saddleback Mountain.
LOCATION: Silverado Community Center & Fairgrounds
27641 Silverado Canyon Rd
Silverado, Ca
INFORMATION:
714-649-2411
Orange St NorbertFest
Friday, October 20, 2023
The annual St. Norbertfest (formerly Oktoberfest) continues to grow and helps to build the parish, school, and the Orange community. There will be great food, fun games such as Sumo Mania, bingo, raffles, exciting rides, and awesome entertainment for everyone—it’s a perfect time for fellowship!
LOCATION:
St. Norbert Catholic Church
300 E. Taft Avenue
Orange, CA 92865
INFORMATION:
(714) 637-4360
San Clemente Walk to End Alzheimer’s
October 21, 2023
The Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s® is full of flowers, each carried by someone committed to ending this disease. Because, like flowers, our participants don’t stop when something’s in their way. They keep raising funds and awareness for a breakthrough in the fight against Alzheimer’s and all other dementia.
Walk to End Alzheimer’s is happening — and you can join us at your local event or Walk From Home in your neighborhood. No matter where you participate, know that your health and safety are our top priorities. All local events will implement safety protocols, including physical distancing, contactless registration, hand sanitizing stations, and more. Per CDC guidelines around crowded outdoor settings, we ask that all Walk attendees be vaccinated against COVID-19 or wear a mask when in an overcrowded area. Masks will be available on-site.
LOCATION:
Mike Ward Community Park
20 Lake Road
Irvine, CA
