Fall into Island Events
Island time never leaves this getaway destination, no matter the time of year. Fall brings a slower crowd, warm Mediterranean weather and a load of festive events.
September
One of the longest running art festivals in California is back in Avalon. The Catalina Festival of Art takes place on September 18-20 from 10am to 5pm along the waterfront. Artists from all over display their work for sell on Crescent Avenue such as jewelry, pottery and photography.
The iconic Catalina Film Festival will be held on September 25-27 for its 16th year. It’s three whole days of screenings at Catalina Islands most treasured landmarks and hotels like the Avalon Theatre. Buy your tickets today for a weekend of conversations and celebrations.
October
Shake your pirate booty at Two Harbors annual Buccaneer Days. On October 1-3, Two Harbors will host its yearly Buccaneer Days with live music, tasty food and drinks, and a costume contest. Choose your favorite pirate attire wisely and hunt for buried treasure.
Head to South Beach for a sample of Catalina Island’s world class chili. Presented by the Rotary Club of Avalon, Catalina Island Chili Cook-Off will take place on October 3 from 1pm to 4pm. Judging categories consist of Judges Best Chili and People’s Choice Chili.
Catalina Museum for Art & History celebrates Hispanic heritage at the Hispanic Heritage and Tamale Festival on October 3 from 3pm to 7pm. This family friendly festival includes local vendors, live music, games, face painting and a tamale tasting.
The longest running smooth jazz festival in the world is hitting the town for two back-to-back weekends in October. Catalina Island JazzTrax Festival kicks off on October 8-11 and October 15-18. Unplug under the stars at Descanso Beach Club on Thursday night then continue at the Casino Ballroom on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
Each year the City of Avalon and Avalon School hosts its annual Avalon Fall Carnival for local residents and visitors. Get in the spirit of Fall on October 16 from 5pm to 8pm with savory food, fun games and friendly competition. Head down to Crescent Avenue!
Become a mermaid for the day at the second Catalina Island Mermaid Festival held on October 24-25. It’s a magical, family-friendly celebration of ocean art, music and mythical creatures! There will be so many fun activities to take part in like mermaid tours and makeovers.
Pick your best Halloween costume and walk through Avalon’s Halloween Parade and Party. The parade will start at the Old Ben Park at 4pm on October 31 and will make its way down Crescent Avenue. Rave Beyond the Grave party and trick or treating will begin shortly after at 5pm.
Dia de los Muertos Family Festival celebrates life and remembers those who are no longer with us at the Catalina Museum for Art & History. It’s a night full of activities, local food vendors, tequila tasting, music and performances, and raffles. Stop by on November 1 from 6pm to 9pm!
On November 14, runners will pave the way at the Catalina Island Half-Marathon, 10K and Kids Fun Run. Experience the sweeping views along the Catalina coastline and the Island’s breathtaking interior. Sign up now for your chance to at a medal.