California’s Biggest Annual Events in 2026: From the Rose Parade to Coachella
California hosts some of the most diverse and high-profile annual events in the United States. From film festivals and music weekends to food celebrations, sporting events, and cultural traditions, the Golden State offers something memorable every month of the year.
Read more: 2026 California Public School Calendar: Key Dates, Breaks, and What Parents Need to Know
January: Rose Parade & Rose Bowl Game
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| The Rose Parade, also known as the Tournament of Roses Parade, is an annual tradition in Pasadena, California |
Rose Parade
Held every January 1 in Pasadena, the Rose Parade features elaborate floral floats, marching bands, and equestrian units.
Rose Bowl Game
One of college football’s most historic bowl games, held at the Rose Bowl Stadium.
Read more: Unique California State Holidays: History, Significance & Festivities
February: Lunar New Year & Pebble Beach Pro-Am
Lunar New Year Festival (San Francisco)
One of the largest Lunar New Year celebrations outside Asia, featuring parades, street fairs, and cultural performances.
AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am
A popular PGA Tour event combining professional golfers and celebrities along the Monterey Peninsula.
March: Film, Food, and Desert Festivals
Palm Springs International Film Festival
A major awards-season event attracting filmmakers, actors, and industry insiders.
Spring Food & Wine Festivals
Cities like San Diego and Napa Valley host seasonal food and wine events celebrating California cuisine.
April: Coachella & Stagecoach
Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival
One of the world’s most influential music festivals, held over two weekends in Indio.
Stagecoach Festival
A major country music festival that follows Coachella at the same venue.
May: Cinco de Mayo & Wine Country Events
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| Cinco de Mayo |
Cinco de Mayo Celebrations
Large-scale celebrations in Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Jose featuring parades, music, and street food.
Napa Valley Spring Wine Festivals
Seasonal tastings and vineyard events marking the start of the busy wine-tourism season.
Read more: More Cultural Events Canceled: Cinco de Mayo, And El Carnaval de Puebla
June: Pride Month & Outdoor Culture
San Francisco Pride
One of the largest Pride celebrations in the world, with a massive parade and civic center festivities.
LA Pride
A major LGBTQ+ event in Los Angeles combining concerts, parades, and community programming.
July: Independence Day & Summer Festivals
Fourth of July Celebrations
Fireworks light up San Diego Bay, San Francisco Bay, and major coastal cities.
Summer Music & Cultural Festivals
July is peak season for outdoor concerts, beach festivals, and county fairs across California.
August: State Fair & Surf Culture
California State Fair
Held in Sacramento, this event celebrates agriculture, food, music, and innovation.
US Open of Surfing
The world’s largest surf competition, combining sports, music, and beach culture.
September: Film Festivals & Wine Harvest
Fall Film Festivals
Smaller film festivals and screenings take place across California cities.
Wine Harvest Season
Napa, Sonoma, and Paso Robles celebrate harvest with tastings, vineyard dinners, and special events.
October: Halloween & Cultural Events
West Hollywood Halloween Carnaval
One of the largest Halloween street events in the U.S.
Fleet Week San Francisco
An annual event featuring naval ship tours and air shows over the bay.
Día de los Muertos Celebrations
Observed throughout California, especially in Los Angeles and San Diego.
November: Thanksgiving & Film Awards Season
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Thanksgiving Events
Community parades, charity runs, and holiday kick-off celebrations.
Awards Season Begins
Film screenings, premieres, and industry events ramp up in Los Angeles.
December: Holiday Lights & New Year Celebrations
Holiday Celebrations
Disneyland Resort, Union Square in San Francisco, and downtown LA feature large-scale holiday decorations and events.
New Year’s Eve Celebrations
Fireworks, concerts, and countdown events across major California cities.
Why California Events Stand Out
California’s annual events reflect its global influence in entertainment, food, technology, sports, and cultural diversity. From Coachella and Pride to historic traditions like the Rose Parade, the state offers year-round reasons to visit.
