The Most Epic Annual Events in California: Top 10 Must-Experience Festivals (Currently Open)
A Golden State Celebration Like No Other
California isn’t just a destination—it’s a living, breathing festival of culture, creativity, and sunshine. From coastal beaches and mountain valleys to the electric buzz of its cities, the Golden State knows how to throw a celebration. Every year, Californians and travelers from around the world flock to its iconic festivals and annual events, each one showcasing a different side of the state’s soul.
Whether you’re into music, food, film, wine, or the wild and weird, there’s something here for everyone. This list highlights the 10 most epic annual events in California that are currently open—those can’t-miss celebrations that define what it means to live and play in this legendary state.
Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival – Indio
There’s no event that screams California cool louder than Coachella. Held every April in the desert oasis of Indio, this world-famous music festival blends art, style, and sound in a way only California can.
Why it’s legendary:
One of the largest and most influential music festivals on the planet
Showcases chart-topping artists, rising indie acts, and immersive art installations
Attracts celebrities, influencers, and music lovers from every corner of the world
Signature experiences:
The iconic Ferris wheel ride at sunset over the Coachella Valley
Mind-blowing visual art installations scattered across the Empire Polo Grounds
VIP lounges and desert-chic fashion that turn every moment into a photo op
Pro Tip: Tickets sell out fast, so plan early. If you want a more laid-back vibe, try Stagecoach Festival—the country music sibling that takes over the same grounds a week later.
Monterey Car Week – Monterey & Pebble Beach
For car enthusiasts, Monterey Car Week is the Super Bowl of automotive excellence. This August event transforms California’s Central Coast into a playground for vintage automobiles, rare collectors, and luxury brands.
Why it’s unmissable:
Features world-class car shows, auctions, and historic races
Culminates with the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, where the rarest cars in the world compete for top honors
Attended by automotive legends, designers, and celebrities
Signature experiences:
Watching priceless Ferraris, Aston Martins, and Bugattis glide along the coast
Exclusive luxury showcases and after-parties at Pebble Beach resorts
The Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion at Laguna Seca Raceway
Tip: Even if you don’t have a ticket to the main concours, the free events and displays in downtown Monterey make this a dream for photographers and families alike.
BottleRock Napa Valley – Napa
If Coachella had a wine-loving cousin, it would be BottleRock. This May festival in Napa Valley pairs top-tier music acts with California’s best food and wine—a true feast for the senses.
Why it stands out:
Gourmet dining by Napa’s finest chefs
Star-studded culinary stage featuring celebrity chefs and rockstars cooking together
Clean, relaxed vibe that’s perfect for families and adults alike
Signature experiences:
Sipping a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon while listening to world-class artists
Sampling farm-to-table dishes under the California sun
Catching unforgettable moments at the Williams Sonoma Culinary Stage
Pro Tip: Bring sunscreen, a hat, and your appetite—because this event is as much about the food and wine as the music.
Outside Lands Music and Arts Festival – San Francisco
Held every August in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park, Outside Lands is one of the most scenic and eco-friendly music festivals in the country. It blends live music, local art, comedy, and California’s culinary best—all with a foggy, laid-back NorCal flair.
Why it’s unique:
Focus on sustainability and local culture
Gourmet food from Bay Area favorites like Boudin Bakery and The Bird
Dedicated areas for wine, craft beer, and cannabis experiences
Signature experiences:
Live performances across multiple stages set in lush parkland
Local food vendors serving Bay Area classics
Immersive art installations and comedy tents
Good to know: Dress in layers—San Francisco fog can make a sunny afternoon turn chilly by sunset.
San Diego Comic-Con International – San Diego
Every July, the world’s pop culture capital shifts to San Diego, where Comic-Con International takes over downtown with pure fan-fueled energy. From Marvel superheroes to indie artists, this event is the mecca for film, TV, gaming, and comic lovers alike.
Why it’s a global phenomenon:
The biggest pop culture convention in the world
Exclusive panels, film previews, and celebrity appearances
Fans dress in incredible costumes, creating a carnival-like atmosphere
Signature experiences:
Attending sneak previews for upcoming blockbusters
Meeting artists and creators in Artist Alley
Taking part in epic cosplay contests
Pro Tip: Even if you can’t score a convention badge, the Gaslamp Quarter is packed with free, themed events that bring the fun to everyone.
Rose Parade & Rose Bowl Game – Pasadena
New Year’s Day in California isn’t just about resolutions—it’s about roses, parades, and football. The Rose Parade in Pasadena is one of America’s oldest and most beloved traditions, dating back to 1890.
Why it’s timeless:
Features stunning floral floats made entirely from natural materials
Marching bands and equestrian units parade before the Rose Bowl Game
A celebration of California’s beauty and community spirit
Signature experiences:
Seeing massive floats covered in roses and petals up close
Attending the Rose Bowl Game, one of college football’s biggest matchups
Experiencing small-town charm in the heart of the Los Angeles area
Family Tip: Arrive early for curbside seats—or camp overnight for front-row views of the parade route.
California State Fair – Sacramento
If you’re looking for a true all-American celebration, the California State Fair in Sacramento is a must. Usually held in July, this family-friendly event showcases the best of the Golden State—from agriculture and art to rides and concerts.
Why it’s beloved:
Features livestock exhibits, craft competitions, concerts, and food galore
Showcases California-grown produce, wine, and cheese
Affordable, family-friendly fun
Signature experiences:
Indulging in deep-fried fair food (try the fried Oreos or giant corndogs)
Visiting the petting zoo and craft halls
Watching fireworks light up warm Sacramento nights
Pro Tip: Go midweek for smaller crowds and discounted tickets.
Stagecoach Festival – Indio
Following Coachella in late April, the desert heats up again for the Stagecoach Festival, the largest country music festival in the world. This event celebrates everything from classic country legends to the newest Nashville stars—all with a California twist.
Why it’s amazing:
Star-studded lineup featuring country’s biggest names
A desert carnival atmosphere that’s family-friendly and upbeat
Western fashion galore—cowboy boots and hats everywhere
Signature experiences:
Line dancing under the desert sky
Late-night campfires and food trucks
A “boot-scootin’” good time surrounded by mountain views
Fun Fact: Stagecoach is so loved that many Californians treat it as their yearly reunion with friends.
Palm Springs International Film Festival – Palm Springs
Each January, the desert town of Palm Springs becomes the center of the film world during its International Film Festival. What began as a small regional event is now one of the most prestigious stops on the awards season circuit.
Why film fans adore it:
Screens more than 180 international films
Attended by Hollywood A-listers and Oscar contenders
Elegant desert setting that combines luxury and art
Signature experiences:
The glamorous Film Awards Gala
Meet-and-greet Q&A sessions with directors and actors
Exploring the charming mid-century modern town between screenings
Pro Tip: Book accommodations early—rooms sell out months in advance.
Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival – San Francisco
Each April, San Francisco’s Japantown bursts into color for the Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival, one of the largest celebrations of Japanese culture in the United States.
Why it’s a springtime favorite:
Celebrates friendship between Japan and the U.S.
Features traditional dance, martial arts, music, and food
Highlights community pride and family participation
Signature experiences:
The grand parade with taiko drums, colorful kimonos, and floats
Sampling takoyaki, ramen, and matcha treats
Experiencing the beauty of blooming cherry blossoms in the heart of the city
Good to know: Admission is free, and it’s one of the best cultural festivals in California for families.
Runners-Up Worth Mentioning
While these ten are the most famous, California has hundreds of events that deserve a mention. Don’t miss:
Big Sur International Marathon – A breathtaking coastal run that doubles as a sightseeing trip.
Burning Man – Technically just across the border in Nevada, but deeply tied to California’s art scene.
LA Pride Parade – A vibrant, inclusive celebration of love and diversity.
Paso Robles Wine Festival – For oenophiles who crave small-batch experiences.
Midsummer Scream in Long Beach – A Halloween-lover’s dream in summer.
How to Make the Most of California’s Festivals
Before diving in, a few insider tips can help make your experience unforgettable:
Book early: From hotels to VIP tickets, demand is sky-high for most California festivals.
Pack smart: Layers, sunscreen, hats, and portable chargers go a long way.
Travel light: Parking can be tough—use shuttles, public transit, or rideshares.
Eat local: Each region features food vendors showcasing California’s culinary diversity.
Stay safe: Hydration and pacing are key, especially in desert and summer events.
The California Festival Spirit: A Way of Life
What makes these annual events so special isn’t just the star power or the scale—it’s the spirit behind them. Every festival reflects something uniquely Californian: creativity, community, sunshine, and diversity. Whether it’s dancing in the desert at Coachella, watching fireworks over Sacramento, or cheering on classic cars at Pebble Beach, you’ll find yourself living the California dream—one event at a time.
Conclusion: Your Year-Round California Festival Bucket List
From January’s Palm Springs Film Festival to December’s holiday parades, California offers something worth celebrating every month of the year. These events are more than dates on a calendar—they’re experiences that define the Golden State’s culture and charm.
So start planning your adventure. Grab your sunscreen, your camera, and a sense of curiosity. Whether you crave music under the desert stars, award-winning films, or small-town parades bursting with color, California’s festivals are currently open and waiting for you. Dive in, dance freely, taste boldly, and make memories that last a lifetime—the Golden State way.