Labor Day Events
When: Sept 2-4
Where: Varies
Labor Day is a day to celebrate workers and marks the end of Summer. From street fairs and music festivals, to car shows and family picnics, there are plenty of activity options for Labor Day Weekend.
Oktoberfest
When: Sept 4 - October 30
Where: Old World Market, Huntington Beach
This OC celebration of German heritage promises a month of beer, sausages, fundraisers, family activities and general merriment. With family nights, extended happy hour Wednesday through Saturday, and a weekly Kinderfest -- “Oktoberfest for kids” -- and various artisain retail vendors, there’s something at Oktoberfest for everyone to enjoy.
Tall Ships Festival
When: Sept 9-11
Where: Ocean Institute, Dana Point
A nautical education event, the Tall Ships Festival invites you to "explore the majesty and wonder of tall ships through the smells, sounds and sights of real working tall ships." Activities include boat tours, cruises, a ships parade and nautical adventures for the kids. See the website for ticket and activity pricing and details.
Doheny Days Music Festival
When: Sept 10-11
Where: Doheny State Beach, Dana Point
After a seven year hiatus, the Doheny Days Music Festival returns to Dana Point. This two-day event features a line up including performances by Weezer, Neon Trees, Ben Harper, Cake, and Ziggy Marley among others. Tickets are on sale now, with the weekend pass being the best deal at $80 for both days. Visit the website for additional details.
O.C. Japan Fair
When: Sept 10
Where: Orange County Fairgrounds, Costa Mesa
This culture fair, celebrates the combination of Japanese history and Otaku, or "obsessive interests," culture that make up what is considered "Cool Japan." The fair features authentic Japanese cuisine, live music, a sake village, budo matches, a custom car show and more. General admission is $5. Visit the website for additional details.
Orange County Brew Ha Ha
When: Sept 10
Where: Hidden Valley Park, Irvine
The annual Bree Ha Ha Beer Festival is a beer lover’s with an afternoon of beer tasting, food, live entertainment, and beer seminars. Admission is $40 and part of the proceeds from the event will be donated to the Fallen Fire Fighters Relief Fund.
BB Jazz Festival
When: Sept 10
Where: Huntington Beach Central Park
This annual jazz festival features live performances from Rachelle Ferrell, The Toni Rich Project, Warren Hill, Brian Simpson, and more. Tickets range from $45 for general admission, to $185 for Platnum VIP seating. Event proceeds are donated undisclosed children’s charities.
9/11 Remembrance Memorial Service
When: Sept 11
Where: Pearson Park Amphitheater, Anaheim
The city of Anaheim hosts a memorial service in honor of the 10th anniversary of the tragic 9/11 terrorist attack. The event is also in remembrance of the lives lost and the sacrifices made by emergency responders.
Dozynki Harvest Festival
When: Sept 17-18
Where: Polish Center, Yorba Linda
In a tradition dating back to 16th Century Poland, the Harvest festival celebrates the “bountiful harvest” of the season. The festival features Polish cuisine, beer, music, folk dancing and tours of the Pope John Paul II Polish Center.
Taste of Newport
When: Sept 16-18
Where: Fashion Island, Newport Beach
A three-day celebration of food, music and wine, Taste of Newport features cuisine from local restaurants, premium wines from Southern California and live performances by Joan Jett, The Barenaked Ladies, Taylor Dayne and ABBA: The Concert. General admission is $25. Visit the website for more details.
Mardi Gras Extravaganza
When: Sept 24
Where: Ralph Brennan's Jazz Kitchen, Anaheim
This fundraiser for the Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Orange County, features live jazz, casino games, Cajun cuisine and silent auctions. Tickets are $200 and the proceeds benefit the Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Orange County. Sponsorship opportunities are available as well. See the website for details.