Catalina Fall Festivities
As the fall season begins to approach, Catalina Island prepares for its many upcoming events. Be sure to plan ahead and take part in some of the most iconic fall festivities that occur on Catalina Island.
Avalon Events
Catalina Festival of Art
On September 15 through the 17, the Catalina Art Association will be holding it’s 64th annual Catalina Festival of Art. It is known to be one of the longest-running art festivals in California. Showcase your work or browse through Crescent Avenue to see artists displays of fine art, sculpture, crafts, and photography. Visit CatalinaArtAssociation.org for more information!
Women’s Forum Wine Festival
The Catalina Island Women’s Forum Wine Festival is held alongside the Catalina Festival of Art on September 16. This fundraiser is located at the M Restaurant from 1 to 4pm and features more than 70 wines, food and smooth jazz. All of the proceeds support scholarships, mentoring and programs against domestic violence.
Catalina Film Festival
The 13th annual Catalina Film Festival is back on Catalina Island from September 22 to the 24. The star-studded event celebrates the history of films on Catalina Island. The Catalina Film Festival features approximately 100 films that are screened at various venues around the Island with additional entertainment, a music stage and VIP parties.
JazzTrax Festival
The Catalina Island JazzTrax Festival is a two-weekend event held on October 12-15 and October 19-22, and is the longest-running Smooth-Jazz festival. The 36th annual event kicks off on Thursday night with “Unplugged at Descanso Beach Club” then holds performances Friday, Saturday and Sunday in the famous Casino Ballroom. Please visit JazzTrax.com for the weekend schedule, the artist lineup and to purchase tickets.
Run Catalina
Participate in one of Catalina Island’s last few races of 2023 with Run Catalina. Swim it. Bike it. Run it. Tri it! Experience the ultimate end of the season triathlon at the Triathlon & Duathlon in Avalon on October 28. For the runners, Catalina Island offers a Half Marathon, 10K and Kid’s Run happening on November 11. For more information on races, visit RunCatalina.com!
Two Harbors Events
Microbrew Fest
Two Harbors presents the microbrew fest on September 9 featuring samples of beer from more than 20 breweries around the world. The event includes tastings from participating breweries, complimentary appetizers, live music and a silent auction. Part of the proceeds support the students of Avalon High School. Purchase your tickets now at VisitCatalinaIsland.com!
Buccaneers Weekend
Dress up as a pirate for the 33rd annual Buccaneer’s Weekend in Two Harbors on October 6-7. Don’t miss out on the costume contest, food, live music and hunting for buried treasure. Head to VisitCatalinaIsland.com to purchase tickets and for further information!
Most importantly don’t forget your transportation to Avalon and Two Harbors for the next fall event. Go to CatalinaExpress.com to book your reservation!
JazzTrax Festival Photo by Pat Benter; Run Catalina Photo by Scott Stolarz