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Best time to visit California depends on what activities you would like to experience. The quiet and uncrowded period from January to March can be perfect for a trip, particularly if you are into winter sports and whale watching. Movie addicted will be happy to catch Academy Awards in wintertime. April and May invite you to California's fantastic national parks to discover powerful waterfalls, winding hiking trails, and hypnotizing poppy blooming. The packed period between June and August is perfect for a beach holiday, rafting or kayaking on crystal clear waters of Lake Tahoe or watching Perseid Meteor Shower. Moro Rock and Mount Shasta are here for you during hot and sunny summer. Balmy weather in September–October and spectacular foliage create a perfect backdrop for the grape harvest. November and December are all about Christmas spirit and changeable weather. New Year's Eve Fireworks, Boat Parades and SnowGlobe Festival will impress you to the moon and back.

164 things to do in California

Sierra Madre Wistaria Festival

March 19, 2025 Event

Every spring over a million purple blossoms drape from the tangled branches, and you can visit the place only during the annual Wistaria Festival

Cycling

April–October Activity

Picturesque scenery, varied terrain, and gentle weather conditions attract cyclists to the Golden State

Rafting

April–September Activity

California's rivers are strong, fast, and full of water flow

Scenic Road Trips

all year round Activity

Driving along a large number of picturesque roads with stops near the highlights and most unique spots can be a perfect vacation plan

Kayaking and Canoeing

May–October Activity

A perfect way to relax and enjoy the beauty of the surrounding nature

Paddleboarding (SUP)

May–September Activity

One of the most enjoyable and fun water activities is popular all along the California coastline

Disneyland

mid-January–early March | August–mid-November Activity

Try avoiding busy weekends and school holidays to enjoy shorter queues in the day full of rides and fun

Brown Pelicans

January–October Nature

Come and see unique brown pelicans in their natural habitat

AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am

January 29-February 2, 2025 Event

One of the world's most popular golf events unfolds annually in Northern California, attracting top pros, amateurs, and numerous celebrities

Point Reyes National Seashore

January–May Nature

If you are looking for a stunning coastal scenery, you are on the right path

Palm Springs International Film Festival

January 2-13, 2025 Event

Meet some A-list stars and attend exciting presentations and special events followed by glamourous night parties

Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes

October–February Nature

These coastal dunes are a site of interest for several unique reasons. Find out why!

Amgen Tour of California

Event

The world's top cyclists cover hundreds of kilometres of spectacular roads and grueling passes; you'll see fascinating sprints and dramatic finishes

Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival

February 13–March 2, 2025 (on selected dates) Event

From monster trucks to camel races and stunning music performances to remarkable food, there's so much more to do at the fairground

Hoes Down Festival

October 5-6, 2024 Event

A great place to celebrate the harvest season is Full Belly Farm where the fun never ends, especially for kids

Remington Hot Springs

all year round Nature

One of the few free public hot springs welcome everyone

Beach Season

May–September Activity

A huge number of varied beaches with white sands and clear waters give you the chance to choose a perfect spot within the coastline of the Golden State

Skiing at Lake Tahoe

late November–late April (best in February) Activity

Magical sparkling scenery and a wide range of activities attract people to Lake Tahoe each winter

Big Sur Road Trip

March–May | September–March Activity

Beautiful coastline, amazing forests, and gorgeous mountains—Big Sur has it all

Mount Shasta

June–late October Nature

This majestic mountain draws lots of hikers, climbers, and mystics

Kiteboarding

April–August Activity

Just choose the right season and the right spot to enjoy your favourite water activity in the Sunny State

Surfing

October–March (all year round) Activity

Amazing swells, great weather conditions, and various opportunities on dozens of ideal surfing beaches are waiting for you in the Golden State

Burney Falls

March–May | September–November Nature

Enjoy watching the beauty and hearing the roar of this jaw-dropping, massive and powerful falls

Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade

December 14, 2024 Event

This spectacular boat show is a great Christmas time family event

Festival of Arts of Laguna Beach

July 6–August 30, 2024 Event

One of the most unique art events in the world with plenty of art treasures to observe

Sutter Buttes

late October–mid-May Nature

Some enthusiasts try to reach the summit of the highest mountains in the world, but how about the smallest?

Bristlecone Pines

mid-May–November Nature

One of the longest living organisms on our planet can be found in the high mountainous regions of California

Kinetic Grand Championship

May 25–27, 2024 Event

See the weirdest vehicles along the varied track or join the kinetic sculpture race and have fun

Santa Barbara International Film Festival (SBIFF)

February 4-15, 2025 Event

The red carpet is rolled out, and movie stars are ready to pose in front of the cameras

Temecula Valley Balloon & Wine Festival

May 17–19, 2024 Event

This three-day event can be the most romantic escape filled with the taste of good wine, spectacular flights, and pleasant time

California State Fair

July 12-28, 2024 Event

The Fair has been attracting people for over 150 years. Come and join this spectacular celebration

BottleRock Napa Valley

May 23-25, 2025 Event

This music festival in Napa Valley combines amazing performances with culinary shows

Surf Dog Competition

August 23–24, 2023 Event

Dog surfers from all over the country gather along the Imperial Beach and Huntington Beach shoreline to take part in surfing competitions and win the first prize. You should witness it in order to believe it

Monterey Jazz Festival

September 27-29, 2024 Event

Top names of jazz gather together in one place to share their talent among real fans. Don't miss one of the greatest jazz events in the world!

Painted Dunes in Lassen Volcanic National Park

May–October Nature

The striking colours of volcanic ash dunes are especially spectacular during glow hour

SnowGlobe Music Festival

December 29–31, 2021 Event

Celebrate New Year's Eve with a cold, fresh mountain view, perfect powder, your favorite snow activities, and the world's best musicians—all in one place

BNP Paribas Open

March 2-16, 2025 Event

If you are a tennis fan, this is your chance to see favorite players up close

Sea Otter Classic

April 10-13, 2025 Event

Check out these fascinating racing competitions and one of the largest bike expos in the US—this event is a real celebration of cycling

Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade of Lights

December 18-22, 2024 Event

Enjoy the sight of hundreds of beautifully decorated vessels

US Open of Surfing

August 3–11, 2024 Event

If you are looking for some amazing moves on waves, this event is definitely for you

Comic-Con International

July 25-28, 2024 Event

If you are a true comic fan this event should be number one on your list! Step into the world of fiction, act like your favourite hero, and meet your idols

Sequoia National Park

May–October Nature

Visit the home of giant sequoias and discover the biggest among the biggest by sheer volume

Bubblegum Alley

all year round Activity

Art can have various forms, and the residents of San Luis Obisco have found a new one

Tufa Towers of Mono Lake

June–mid-September Nature

Weird limestone creations that emerge from the lake surface attract naturalists and curious tourists. Are they natural, or is it another art installation?

Salton Sea

October–May Nature

Visit the largest lake in California located in the desert. The Salton Sea was created due to extreme natural forces and has been changing from year to year, and may disappear in the nearest future

Devils Postpile National Monument

mid-June–October Nature

These unique symmetrical columns created by the forces of nature attract people from all over the world

Moro Rock Hike

April–October Activity

Take a deep breath and start one of the most beautiful hikes to the top of this bald granite rock formation with stunning views of Sequoia National Park

Forestiere Underground Gardens

March–November Nature

This unique manmade underground world features fruit gardens and amazing stonework

Perseid Meteor Shower

late July–late August (best in mid-August) Nature

Stars begin to fall in the middle of summer—get ready to make some wishes

Bald Eagles

November–March Nature

It is believed that the Bald Eagle symbolizes strength, courage, freedom, and immortality

Monarch Butterflies

mid-November–mid-March Nature

Tens of thousands of North American monarchs head to California for their honeymoon, and wedding night falls on Valentine's Day

Monticello Dam Morning Glory Spillway

November–March Nature

An enormous drain hole that resembles a portal to another world is especially impressive during the rainy season

Sunset at Keyhole Arch, Pfeiffer Beach

mid-December to mid-January Nature

Winter in California can reveal some real magic of light

Glass Beach

June–August Nature

Ocean is an artist able to turn rubbish into treasure—check out smooth rubies, sapphires and other jewels that used to be pieces of broken glass

Elephant Seals

December–March Nature

These seals with elephant noses roam the ocean searching for food, and go ashore to breed and molt

Ladybug Migration in California

November Nature

Everyone loves a ladybug on their hand, but imagine hundreds of thousands! This can happen near San Francisco

World's Ugliest Dog Contest

June 21, 2024 Event

Beauty varies. Even the ugliest living being can make someone happy

Poppy Season in the Antelope Valley

late February–early May (peak in late March–early April) Nature

After winter rains, dry hills burst with new life as billions of technicolor orange poppies bloom

Ice Plant Bloom

May Nature

One of Pacific Grove's most prominent sights

Coachella

April 12-21, 2024 Event

One of the biggest and most popular music festivals is a chance to meet all stars in one place

Super Bloom in Anza-Borrego Desert

late February–April (best in mid-March) Nature

This unusual phenomenon proves that even dry and harsh places like deserts are actually alive!

Heart Rock Falls

March–November Nature

The power of water carved a heart in a solid stone. Such natural sites inspire and give hopes

Pacific Crest Trail

May–September Activity

From Mexico to Canada or reverse, a crest of mountains follows along the western states of the USA, washed by the Pacific waters—it's one of the world's most scenic natural corridors

California Roots Festival

May 23-25, 2025 Event

Discover what California’s best raggae fest can bring

Naples Boat Parade

December 21, 2024 Event

One of the most beautiful holiday traditions in California

California Strawberry Festival

May 17-18, 2025 Event

Strawberry pizza anyone?

Sierra Nevada World Music Festival

June 21–23, 2024 Event

Groove to the sweet vibes of roots reggae and world music

California International Marathon

December 8, 2024 Event

With spectacular State Capitol Finish this marathon features an easy downhill course and can help you to qualify for the Boston Marathon

Bowling Ball Beach

all year round (low tide) Activity

Huge spherical stones lining the beach make it unique and beautiful

Carson Mansion

all year round Activity

The most famous Victorian home on the West Coast

Black Star Canyon Hike

November–May Activity

This remote canyon in the Santa Ana Mountains is popular with hikers and black magic followers

Lick Observatory

June–September Activity

Visit the first permanent mountain top observatory in the world

Cool Patch Pumpkins Corn Maze

late September–October Activity

Kick off the holiday season and get lost in the world’s largest corn maze

Long Beach Christmas Lights

December Event

Houses around Naples Island are known to put on the best displays in Southern California

Christmas Lights

mid-November–early January Event

Immerse yourself in a festive Christmas atmosphere

Los Altos Festival of Lights Parade

December 1, 2024 Event

A popular holiday event draws spectators from all over Silicon Valley

Enchanted Forest of Light

November 17, 2024–January 5, 2025 Event

A magical light display in Los Angeles County

Huntington Harbour Boat Parade

December 14–15, 2024 Event

A maritime extravaganza by the beach is one of the best in California

Palm Springs Festival of Lights Parade

December 7, 2024 Event

A signature holiday event of Palm Springs and Coachella Valley

Winter Fest OC

November 22, 2024-January 5, 2025 Event

Winter wonderland does exist in Southern California, you'll find it in Orange County

Mossbrae Falls

year round (best time: March–November) Activity

A hidden gem of Northern California

Mount Tallac

May–October Activity

Prepare to be stunned by beautiful vistas of Lake Tahoe

Bassi Falls

April–June (best in late April–May) Activity

A beautiful and popular site in El Dorado county

Phantom Falls

November–April Nature

This waterfall is as hard to find as its name suggests

Matilija Falls

March–November Nature

A strenuous canyon hike to a few beautiful waterfalls

Calla Lily Valley & Garrapata Beach

late January–late April (best in mid-February–early April) Nature

One of the most picturesque coastal areas in Big Sur

Rae Lakes Loop

June–September Activity

Beautiful lakes nestled in scenic High Sierra mountains

South Yuba River Swimming Holes

March–October Activity

A great way to relax during hot summer days

Prewitt Ridge

March–November (all year round) Activity

Watch the sea of clouds from one of the most beautiful camps in California

Thousand Steps Beach Pools

March–early June | September–December Activity

One of the best hidden treasures of the Orange County

Reggae on the River

August 2-4, 2024 Event

A community-driven world class reggae festival

Joshua Tree Music Festival

October 10–13, 2024 Event

Great lineup in the middle of Mojave desert

Surf Ranch Pro

to return in 2023 Event

Unbelievable surfing in California's heartland along with beach fun, music and parties

Wasteland Weekend

September 25–29, 2024 Event

Spend a few days of your life in a "Mad Max" movie setting

Lightning In A Bottle

May 22-27, 2024 Event

Dance, party and socialize at this boutique music festival

Lassen Peak Trail

mid-June–September Activity

Stand atop an active volcano with the largest lava dome on Earth

Borrego Springs Metal Sculptures

October–April Activity

A very Californian desert attraction

Big Pine Lakes

early May–October Nature

Seven dazzlingly beautiful lakes in a single-day hike..let's go?

Howland Hill Road

all year round Activity

Ride through towering old-growth redwoods of Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park

Cherry Blossom

March–late April Nature

Delicate sakura opens the tree blooming season in the Golden State

Glendora Mountain Road

all year round Activity

Alpine scenery is just an hour away from downtown Los Angeles

Sonora Pass

mid-May–mid-November Activity

A beautiful drive in Sierra Nevada mountains

Napa Valley Jazz Getaway

June 5-9, 2024 Event

A must-do event for a true jazz enthusiast in Yountville

Whale Watching

mid-December–mid-April (all year round) Nature

From North to South, California observes the giant marine creatures migration every year

Pear Lake Trail

May–October Activity

A popular hiking destination in Sequoia National Park

The Big Fresno Fair

October 2–14, 2024 Event

The largest entertainment event in San Joaquin Valley

Halloween Events in California

September–October Event

Amusement parks, scary attractions and amazing costume parties throughout the state

Big Sur International Marathon

April 27, 2025 Event

The most scenic run in the whole United States

Almond Bloom

mid-February–early March Nature

The first sign of spring on the Pacific Coast

California Fall Colors

late September–early November Nature

Admire bronze and amber foliage throughout the Golden State

Poway Winter Festival

January 10–11, 2025 Event

Experience winter fun in Southern California

New Year's Eve

December 31 Event

Discover best places to visit during NYE in The Golden State

Tarantula Migration

September–October Nature

Watch a fascinating natural phenomenon in California's parks and deserts

Cathedral City Hot-Air Balloon Festival

November 22-24, 2024 Event

Not just balloons! A fall festival in Coachella Valley offers something for everyone

Escondido Water Lantern Festival

January 2025 Event

This unique eco-friendly event will give you a sense of magic

Wings Over Camarillo Air Show

August 17-18, 2024 Event

Witness impressive flight demonstrations and aerobatics on California's Central Coast

Capital Airshow

July 13–14, 2024 Event

Let the Californian sun help you relax while you enjoy this two-day extravaganza

Comic Con Revolution Ontario

May 17-18, 2025 Event

The two-day family-friendly popular culture convention at Ontario Convention Center

Stargazing

all year round (but the best months are April-October) Nature

If you want to escape loud city life, then stargazing in California is your thing

California Cheese Festival

March 22-24, 2024 Event

Find out what wine will complement Red Hawk cheese, how the cheese is produced, and many more exciting things at California Cheese Festival

Lake Arrowhead Oktoberfest

September 14-October 27, 2024 (every Saturday and Sunday) Event

Drink beer, hit the dance floor, and have unforgettable fun at Lake Arrowhead Oktoberfest in California

Malibu 4th of July Fireworks & Events

Event

The "Bu" is waiting for you on the 4th of July

Oxnard 4th of July Events

Event

Parades and festivities in Channel Islands Harbor

Antioch 4th of July Fireworks & Parade

July 4 Event

Grab your camera because you will certainly want to remember this celebration

Caruthers District Fair

September 25–28, 2024 Event

The largest and longest-running free-gate fair in the Golden State

Carlsbad Village Street Faire

May 5, 2025 Event

Grab your little ones to celebrate life together at this awesome street fair

Santa Maria Valley Strawberry Festival

April 26-28, 2024 Event

Fall in love with strawberries at this family-friendly event

Lake Sabrina Fall Colors

mid-September-early October Nature

Enjoy fall foliage at one of California's most mesmerizing spots

Camarillo Christmas Parade

December 14, 2024 Event

Camarillo Christmas Parade offers a great chance to celebrate winter with a family

Light at Sensorio

all year round Event

Light at Sensorio invites you to Paso Robles to enjoy several fantastic light installations, including Field of Lights and Light Towers. You will be stunned for sure!

Solvang Christmas

December 6, 2024–January 10, 2025 Event

This Danish-style month-long Christmas celebration welcomes you to have lots of fun

Morro Bay Witches & Warlocks Paddle

October 26, 2024 Event

Over 500 witches celebrate Halloween paddling in Morro Bay

Patterson Apricot Fiesta

May 30-June 1, 2025 Event

Check out a long-standing tradition of the Apricot Capital of the World

Balloons Over Angel Fire Hot-Air Balloon Festival

June 14-16, 2024 Event

Save the date for this Pinterest-like hot-air balloon festival!

ClovisFest & Hot Air Balloon Fun Fly

September 28–29, 2024 Event

An annual ballooning celebration by the Clovis Chamber of Commerce

Estrella Warbirds Wings & Wheels

May 13, 2025 Event

An annual Paso Robles show featuring aircraft and auto displays

Tulare County Renaissance Faire

April 13-21, 2024 (weekends only) Event

Medieval entertainment and over 30 vendors in Visalia

Shasta Renaissance and Fantasy Faire

May 25-26, 2025 Event

A great choice for your Memorial Day Weekend to remember!

Escondido Renaissance Faire

April 20–May 5, 2024 | October 26–27, 2024 | November 2–3, 2024 (weekends) Event

A biannual medieval festival in southern California

Kearney Renaissance Faire

November 9-10, 2024 Event

Experience a Tudor-era village, full of family-friendly fun

California International Airshow Salinas

October 3-5, 2025 Event

A world-class, spine-chilling, and family-oriented airshow event!

Central Coast AirFest

September 21-22, 2024 Event

One of the most popular annual festivals in Santa Maria

Apple Valley Airshow

October 12–13, 2024 Event

Enjoy a variety of flyby demonstrations and static aircraft displays at this show

Fresno Pirate Festival

May 18-19, 2024 Event

A family-friendly weekend event at Kearney Park

Idyllwild Renaissance Faire

September 28–29, 2024 Event

Immerse yourself in a medieval fantasy nestled in the San Jacinto mountains

Folsom Renaissance Faire

September 28-29, 2024 Event

Travel back in time at this magnificent medieval fair

Subaru Newport Beach Jazz Festival

May 31-June 2, 2024 Event

Enjoy three days of the finest jazz, R&B, and soul vibes

Northern California Renaissance Faire

September 14-October 20, 2024 Event

The fictional village of Willingtown comes to life every fall

The Central Coast Renaissance Festival

July 20-21, 2024 Event

Get a glimpse of the medieval era at this amazing Renaissance fest

Paul Bunyan Days in Fort Bragg

August 30–September 2, 2024 Event

Deep in the heart of Fort Bragg, where the legend of Paul Bunyan comes to life

Vista Viking Festival

September 21–22, 2024 Event

California's premier Viking Festival

Medieval Festival of Courage

October 5–6, 2024 Event

A vibrant event that harkens back to times when knights roamed the land

KVMR Celtic Festival

May 3-5, 2024 Event

A fun-filled weekend fair with five musical and six demonstration stages

Healdsburg Jazz Festival

June 15–23, 2024 Event

This one-of-a-kind jazz fest in California has a very special feel to it

Concord Jazz Festival

August 7, 2024 Event

Revel in jazz tunes swirling around the amphitheater in Concord Hills and around the town's streets

Artichoke Festival

June 8–9, 2024 Event

A food festival in the "Artichoke Center of the World"

Marysville Peach Festival

July 19-20, 2025 Event

The sweetest fest in the West

Tehachapi Apple Festival

October 12-13, 2024 Event

The best party of fall season in Downtown Tehachapi

Cambria Christmas Market

November 29–December 31, 2024 Event

Book a stay at Cambria Pines Lodge and enjoy holiday magic overnight

Scottish Highland Gathering and Games

August 31–September 1, 2024 Event

Go back to the medieval times at this one-off festival!

Novato Art, Wine & Music Festival

June 8–9, 2024 Event

An all-weekend celebration of local music, craftsmanship, and wine in the North Bay Area

Mountain View Art & Wine Festival

September 7–8, 2024 Event

An action-packed, multi-cultural celebration of art near Silicone Valley

Pacific Surfliner Train Trip

all year round Activity

A comfortable trip along the coast of California, passing vibrant beaches and surf cities.

Newport Beach Film Festival

October 17-24, 2024 Event

A first-class international film program during the 8-day festival contains over 300 feature and short films

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