Summer Events Not to Miss in Orange County
Summer in Orange County is all about long coastal evenings, outdoor music, local festivals, art walks, and easy ways to enjoy the season close to home. From Costa Mesa and Newport Beach to Laguna Beach and nearby OC favorites, there are plenty of events worth adding to your calendar this month.
Below are some of the best summer events in Orange County for families, couples, and adults looking for a night out.
Family-Friendly Summer Events in Orange County
OC Fair
July 17 – August 16 | Costa Mesa
The OC Fair returns to the OC Fair & Event Center with carnival rides, food, exhibits, shopping, animals, games, and live entertainment. It is one of Costa Mesa’s biggest summer traditions and a great option for families looking for a full day or evening out.
OC Parks Summer Concert Series
Thursdays, July 9 – September 3 | Various OC Parks
OC Parks is hosting free Thursday night concerts all summer long. A few upcoming highlights include Flashback Heart Attack at Mason Regional Park on July 9, Queen Nation at Irvine Regional Park on July 16, and Boy Band Review at Irvine Regional Park on July 23. Bring chairs, blankets, and a picnic for an easy summer evening outdoors.
OC Parks Sunset Cinema
Fridays through August | Various OC Parks
For an easy family movie night, OC Parks’ Sunset Cinema series features free outdoor screenings with pre-show entertainment. Upcoming options include How to Train Your Dragon at Mason Regional Park on July 10, Elio at Yorba Regional Park on July 17, and The Wild Robot at Laguna Niguel Regional Park on July 31.
Family Art Day at Festival of Arts
July 12 | Laguna Beach
Festival of Arts hosts a special Family Art Day with hands-on activities, art experiences, and kid-friendly programming. It is a good way to introduce children to one of Laguna Beach’s most beloved summer traditions.
Festival of Arts
Now through Summer | Laguna Beach
The Festival of Arts is a classic Orange County summer experience, featuring local artists, live music, art demonstrations, dining, and an open-air setting just minutes from the beach. It works well for families during the day or as part of a Laguna Beach evening out.
Pageant of the Masters
July 9 – September 4 | Laguna Beach
One of Orange County’s most unique cultural events, Pageant of the Masters brings famous works of art to life with real people, detailed sets, costumes, lighting, and live narration. It is best suited for older kids, teens, and adults.
Adults-Only & Date Night Summer Events
OC Brew Hee Haw
July 17–18 | Costa Mesa
OC Brew Hee Haw returns during the opening weekend of the OC Fair with craft beer tastings, live music, dancing, and admission to the Fair. This is a 21+ event and one of the more popular adult summer events in Costa Mesa.
Pacific Amphitheatre Concerts
July & August | Costa Mesa
The Pacific Amphitheatre summer lineup gives you an easy night-out option right at the OC Fairgrounds. Upcoming shows include Midland on July 17, Chris Young on July 18, Cole Swindell on July 19, Trevor Noah on July 30, and Nile Rodgers & CHIC on July 31.
Art, Jazz, Wine & Chocolate
Thursdays at 5pm | July 9 – September 3 | Laguna Beach
Hosted at Festival of Arts, Art, Jazz, Wine & Chocolate is a strong date-night option with live jazz, wine, chocolate pairings, and the atmosphere of Laguna’s summer art scene.
Newport Harbor Sunset Cruise
Newport Beach
For a classic coastal evening, book a Duffy boat, harbor cruise, or waterfront dinner around Newport Harbor. It is simple, scenic, and one of the best ways to enjoy summer in Newport Beach.
Laguna Beach Art Walk
Laguna Beach
Pair Festival of Arts or Pageant of the Masters with dinner downtown and a First Thursday’s Art Walk. Held on the First Thursday of the month throughout the year. It is one of the easiest summer date-night itineraries in coastal Orange County.
Live Music in Newport Beach
For something more low-key, check out live music at local Newport Beach venues such as Campus JAX. It is a good option for adults looking for dinner, drinks, and a relaxed night out without committing to a large event.
Enjoy Summer Living in Coastal Orange County
One of the best parts of living in Costa Mesa, Newport Beach, and the surrounding coastal communities is how much there is to do within a short drive. From family-friendly concerts and movies in the park to art festivals, harbor nights, and live music, summer in Orange County offers something for every stage of life.
If you are thinking about making a move in Costa Mesa, Newport Beach, or coastal Orange County, we would be happy to help you explore not just the homes, but the lifestyle that makes this area so special.