Spring often seems to come early to Orange County. And still, during the Spring months, we find a second bloom and events to celebrate the season for planting and the blooming of the flowers. From citrus and garden fairs to wine and film festivals -- here’s your guide to April events throughout Orange County, California.
The Blues Brothers
When: April 4-7Where: Barclay Theatre, Irvine
This critically acclaimed musical is a high energy tribute to the original Blues Brothers and features songs such as “Soul Man,” “Shake a Tailfeather” and more. Tickets start at $25 and can be purchased online or at the Barclay Theatre box office.
The Rabbit Run
When: April 7Where: O.C. Great Park
This running Easter egg hunt is a unique twist on a favored Easter tradition. Individuals and families alike are invited to run, walk or bike the 3.1 mile course at the Orange County Great Park on a search for colorful eggs filled with surprises. See website for registration fees and details.
Doheney Wood
When: April 14Where: Doheney State Beach
The Southern California Woodie Club hosts its annual woodie car show followed by a dinner for woodie owners at Donheney State Beach in Dana Point. The event starts at 8:00 a.m. and admission is free.
Green Scene Plant & Garden Show
When: April 14-15Where:Fullerton Arboretum
This is an event for novice gardeners and master horticulturists alike. With more than 100 vendors as well as workshops and lectures, the plant and garden show is designed for education and personal garden development. Admission is $6 and arboretum members get in for free.
Orange County Ragtime Festival
When: April 14-15Where: Muckenthaler Theater & Steamers Jazz Club
This two-day festival is a celebration of the history of Jazz and Ragtime music in the heart of Fullerton, Calif. The weekend will include live jazz, ragtime, vaudeville performances and other related genres across two venues, as well as music and a “storm case” featuring impromptu drawings of the performers. Admission is free but seating is limited.
La Boheme
When: April 19-24Where: Segerstrom Center
The Pacific Symphony presents Puccini’s classic heartbreaking opera in the R&H Concert Hall at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts. Tickets start at $30 and go up to $200.
La Habra Citrus Fair
When: April 19-22Where: La Habra
This third annual citrus fair in La Habra, Calif., features gourmet food trucks, local vendors, fun fair rides. General admission is free; tickets for rides are available for pre-sale or at the fair.
California Wine Festival, Orange County
When: April 20 - 21Where: Dana Point
Enjoy great food and drink at this Orange County wine festival featuring local winemakers and cuisine, live entertainment and a silent auction to benefit the Donheney State Beach Interpretive Association. This event is for those 21-and-over and resort attire is advised. See website for ticket and venue details.
Spring Fair & Art Festival
When: April 21-22Where: Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary
In honor of Earth Day, the Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary hosts this Spring fair and art festival featuring handmade arts and crafts, live music, guided hikes, birding classes and other activities for kids. Admission is $5 and free from children under 12.
Newport Beach Film Festival
When: April 26 - May 3Where: Newport Beach
Featuring more than 300 films from 40 countries, shown in six venues, the Newport Beach Film Festival pays homage to the art of filmmaking. The event showcases established and up-and-coming talent, as well as independent, studio and youth films.