Top California Festivals in 2025: Date, Location, Activities, Tickets, and Advice

Overview of California Festivals in 2025

California, with its diverse population, vibrant cities, and scenic landscapes, is a year-round festival destination that offers a vast range of cultural, culinary, artistic, and musical events. In 2025, the Golden State’s festival calendar reflects its multicultural identity, creativity, and passion for innovation. From January’s Napa Lighted Art Festival illuminating the winter nights to the Palm Springs International Film Festival closing out the year in style, California’s festivals celebrate every facet of life.

Spring kicks off with global music events like Coachella and Stagecoach in Indio, welcoming music lovers from all over the world. The summer heats up with Outside Lands in San Francisco and BottleRock in Napa, blending music, food, and art. Meanwhile, autumn features the unique Dia de los Muertos celebrations across cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco, honoring the Mexican tradition of the Day of the Dead.

In addition to these iconic events, California’s regional festivals showcase the state’s culinary and agricultural heritage. The San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival offers a sophisticated culinary experience along the coast, while the LA County Fair pays homage to the state’s farming roots with a mix of traditional fair attractions and modern entertainment. Throughout the year, there are countless opportunities to immerse oneself in California’s local culture, from food festivals celebrating fresh, organic produce to film festivals bringing global cinema to the state’s theaters.

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Full List of California Festivals in 2025. Image: KnowInsiders

Full List of California Festivals in 2025: Significance, Activities

January

1. Napa Lighted Art Festival

• Date: January 18 - February 16, 2025
• Location: Downtown Napa, California
• Significance: This festival transforms Napa into a luminous art experience, showcasing innovative light-based artworks that highlight the city's historic architecture.
• Activities: Attendees can enjoy a free, walkable outdoor experience featuring light installations, 3D mapping projections, and interactive exhibits created by local and international artists. The festival also includes workshops and artist talks.
• How to Get There: Napa is accessible via San Francisco International Airport (SFO) or Oakland International Airport (OAK). Shuttle services and parking are available.
• Tickets: The festival is free to the public.
• Advice: Dress warmly for evening strolls and consider visiting local restaurants and wineries that may offer special promotions during the festival.

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February

2. Noise Pop Music and Arts Festival

• Date: February 20 - March 2, 2025
• Location: Various venues across San Francisco, California
• Significance: Noise Pop is a premier indie music and arts festival that has been showcasing emerging and established artists since 1993.
• Activities: The festival features live performances from indie bands, art shows, film screenings, and panel discussions. It's a platform for discovering new talent and experiencing San Francisco's vibrant arts scene.
• How to Get There: San Francisco is accessible via San Francisco International Airport (SFO). Public transportation is recommended to navigate between venues.
• Tickets: Individual event tickets and festival badges are available, with prices varying by event. Tickets can be purchased through the official Noise Pop website.
• Advice: Plan your schedule in advance to catch your preferred performances and events, as venues are spread throughout the city.

March

3. Rolling Loud California

Rolling Loud California

• Date: March 14-16, 2025
• Location: Hollywood Park, Los Angeles, California
• Significance: Rolling Loud is one of the largest hip-hop festivals globally, bringing together top artists and emerging talents in the genre. Its California edition is a major event in the hip-hop community, attracting fans from across the nation.
• Activities: Attendees can enjoy performances from over 100 hip-hop acts across multiple stages, explore art installations, and indulge in a variety of food and beverage options. The festival also features merchandise vendors and interactive sponsor activations.
• How to Get There: Hollywood Park is accessible via Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Public transportation and rideshare services are recommended due to limited parking.
• Tickets: General Admission (GA) tickets provide access to all stages and general areas. GA+ and VIP tickets offer additional amenities such as expedited entry and exclusive viewing areas. Tickets can be purchased through the official Rolling Loud website.
• Advice: Arrive early to navigate security checks and secure good viewing spots. Stay hydrated and wear comfortable footwear, as the festival grounds are extensive. Be mindful of the festival's policies on prohibited items.

April

4. Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival

Coachella Valley Music

• Date: April 11-13 and April 18-20, 2025
• Location: Empire Polo Club, Indio, California
• Significance: Coachella is one of the most iconic music and arts festivals worldwide, known for its diverse lineup, art installations, and trendsetting influence on music and fashion.
• Activities: The festival features performances by artists across various genres, large-scale art installations, a Ferris wheel, and numerous food and beverage vendors. Attendees can also explore boutique shops and participate in interactive experiences.
• How to Get There: Indio is approximately 130 miles east of Los Angeles. Shuttle services are available from major cities, and on-site camping is an option for attendees.
• Tickets: General Admission and VIP passes are available, with options for camping and shuttle services. Tickets typically sell out quickly, so purchasing during the advance sale is recommended.
• Advice: Prepare for hot daytime temperatures and cooler nights. Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and plan your schedule to catch your favorite artists, as the festival grounds are vast.

Festivals in California. Image: KnowInsiders

5. Stagecoach Festival

• Date: April 25-27, 2025
• Location: Empire Polo Club, Indio, California
• Significance: Stagecoach is the premier country music festival on the West Coast, featuring top country artists and celebrating the genre's rich heritage.
• Activities: In addition to live music, the festival offers line dancing lessons, a honky-tonk dance hall, and a variety of food and drink options, including BBQ and craft beers.
• How to Get There: The festival shares the same location as Coachella, with similar transportation and accommodation options.
• Tickets: General Admission and VIP passes are available, with options for reserved seating and camping. Tickets can be purchased through the official Stagecoach website.
• Advice: Embrace the country theme by wearing appropriate attire. Explore the various festival zones to fully experience all activities offered.

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May

6. BottleRock Napa Valley

• Date: May 23-25, 2025
• Location: Napa Valley Expo, Napa, California
• Significance: BottleRock Napa Valley is a unique festival that combines music, world-class wine, gourmet food, and craft beer, reflecting Napa Valley's reputation as a culinary and wine destination.
• Activities: Attendees can enjoy performances from renowned artists across multiple genres, wine and food tastings, and culinary demonstrations by celebrity chefs. The event also features a spa area and VIP lounges, adding a luxury touch to the festival experience.
• How to Get There: Napa is accessible via San Francisco International Airport (SFO) or Oakland International Airport (OAK). Shuttle services and parking passes are available for transportation within the Napa Valley area.
• Tickets: General Admission, VIP, and Platinum passes are offered, each with different levels of access and amenities. Tickets can be purchased through the official BottleRock website.
• Advice: Arrive early to explore the culinary and wine options between music performances. It’s recommended to plan your schedule carefully to enjoy both the music stages and culinary gardens fully.

California Roots Music and Arts Festival

• Date: May 23-25, 2025
• Location: Monterey County Fairgrounds, Monterey, California
• Significance: Known as "Cali Roots," this festival celebrates reggae, roots, and hip-hop music while promoting sustainability and community through art and music.
• Activities: The festival features live performances from top reggae and hip-hop artists, live art installations, and a vendor village with sustainable goods. The festival also has sustainability initiatives such as recycling programs and eco-friendly vendors.
• How to Get There: Monterey is accessible via Monterey Regional Airport (MRY) or San Jose International Airport (SJC), with local transit and rideshare options available.
• Tickets: General Admission and VIP passes are available, with options for single-day or full weekend access. Tickets can be purchased through the California Roots website.
• Advice: Take part in the sustainability programs offered by the festival, and explore the art installations. Accommodations in Monterey fill up quickly, so early booking is advised.

August

7. Outside Lands Music and Arts Festival

Outside Lands Music and Arts Festival

• Date: August 8-10, 2025
• Location: Golden Gate Park, San Francisco, California
• Significance: Outside Lands is a premier music and arts festival on the West Coast that combines top-tier music performances with art installations, food, wine, and craft beer, embodying San Francisco's artistic and culinary culture.
• Activities: Attendees can enjoy performances from artists across multiple genres, interactive art installations, and a dedicated area for food and wine tastings. The festival also features a comedy tent and eco-friendly initiatives like waste diversion programs.
• How to Get There: Golden Gate Park is accessible by public transportation within San Francisco, and attendees are encouraged to use rideshare options due to limited parking.
• Tickets: General Admission, VIP, and Super VIP options are available, with benefits including access to exclusive lounges and viewing areas. Tickets are available through the Outside Lands website.
• Advice: Dress in layers to adapt to San Francisco’s unpredictable weather, and plan your schedule to fully experience both the music and culinary offerings.

September

8. LA County Fair

• Date: September 6-29, 2025
• Location: Pomona, California
• Significance: The LA County Fair is one of California’s longest-running fairs, celebrating agricultural heritage with a mix of traditional fair attractions, food, and entertainment.
• Activities: The fair includes carnival rides, livestock exhibits, food stalls with unique treats, concerts, and shopping pavilions. The fairgrounds also host educational exhibits on agriculture and sustainability.
• How to Get There: The fair is accessible from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and surrounding areas by car, with ample parking available.
• Tickets: General Admission tickets are available, with discounted rates for children and seniors. Tickets can be purchased at the fair’s official website.
• Advice: Arrive early to explore the diverse attractions, and try the famous fair foods like deep-fried desserts and barbecue.

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October

9. Fleet Week San Francisco

• Date: October 6-13, 2025
• Location: San Francisco, California
• Significance: Fleet Week celebrates the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard with air shows, ship tours, and community events, honoring military service.
• Activities: The main highlight is the air show featuring the Blue Angels, along with ship tours, military demonstrations, and a Veterans Art Exhibit. Family-friendly activities include live music and educational displays.
• How to Get There: Fleet Week events are held throughout San Francisco, accessible by public transportation and rideshare services.
• Tickets: Most events, including the air show, are free to the public. VIP options with premium seating may be available for certain areas.
• Advice: Bring ear protection for the air show, as it can be loud. Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot for the Blue Angels.

November

10. Dia de los Muertos Festival (Day of the Dead Festival)

• Date: November 1-2, 2025
• Location: Various locations, including Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego, California
• Significance: Dia de los Muertos is a Mexican cultural celebration to honor the lives of departed loved ones. California, with its large Mexican-American community, celebrates this festival with vibrant displays and altars, keeping alive the tradition of remembering ancestors.
• Activities: Attendees can experience colorful parades, traditional music and dance performances, elaborate altars (ofrendas) adorned with marigolds, candles, and photos, and sugar skull face painting. The celebration includes traditional foods like pan de muerto (bread of the dead).
• How to Get There: Major cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego have accessible public transit systems and rideshare options to festival locations.
• Tickets: Many events are free to the public, but some special exhibitions and performances may require a ticket.
• Advice: Embrace the tradition by dressing in Día de los Muertos attire and participating in the face painting. Arrive early to witness altar setups and explore the various aspects of this meaningful celebration.

11. San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival

San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival

• Date: November 11-17, 2025
• Location: Various locations along the San Diego Bay, San Diego, California
• Significance: This premier culinary festival celebrates California’s rich wine and culinary scene, showcasing some of the best local chefs, wineries, and artisans in the San Diego area.
• Activities: Attendees can enjoy wine tastings, gourmet food pairings, cooking demonstrations, and special events such as the Grand Tasting along the scenic San Diego Bay. There are also interactive classes and wine seminars for food enthusiasts.
• How to Get There: Fly into San Diego International Airport (SAN). The festival venues along the bay are accessible by car or public transit.
• Tickets: Tickets range from $85 for individual events to $200+ for all-access passes. Tickets can be purchased through the festival's website.
• Advice: Dress comfortably for walking and wine tasting, and bring an extra layer for cooler evening temperatures by the bay. Book tickets early, as the Grand Tasting is a popular event that sells out quickly.

A map of California, showcasing major festival locations for 2025 with iconic symbols for each event. Image: KnowInsiders

December

12. Palm Springs International Film Festival

• Date: December 5-16, 2025
• Location: Various theaters in Palm Springs, California
• Significance: The Palm Springs International Film Festival is one of the most prestigious film festivals in North America, showcasing a wide array of films from around the world. It draws cinephiles, industry professionals, and Oscar contenders, offering a sneak peek at award-season favorites.
• Activities: The festival features screenings of international films, panel discussions with directors and actors, and the star-studded Gala Awards night. Attendees have the opportunity to view a curated selection of feature films, documentaries, and short films.
• How to Get There: Fly into Palm Springs International Airport (PSP). Festival venues are centrally located and accessible by car or shuttle services.
• Tickets: Individual screening tickets and festival passes are available, with options for the Gala Awards night. Tickets can be purchased through the festival’s official website.
• Advice: Book screenings early, as popular films often sell out. Be prepared for warm daytime weather and cooler nights in Palm Springs.

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13. Christmas Tree Lane Lighting Ceremony

• Date: December 13, 2025
• Location: Altadena, California
• Significance: Christmas Tree Lane is one of California’s oldest holiday traditions, with nearly a century of history. This mile-long stretch of Deodar cedar trees on Santa Rosa Avenue is decorated with festive lights to celebrate the holiday season.
• Activities: The lighting ceremony includes live music, food vendors, and holiday-themed activities for families. Attendees can walk or drive down the lane to enjoy the twinkling lights and holiday atmosphere.
• How to Get There: Altadena is a short drive from Los Angeles, accessible by car or rideshare services.
• Tickets: Free to attend.
• Advice: Dress warmly and bring a thermos of hot chocolate to fully enjoy the outdoor festivities. Arrive early to secure a parking spot nearby, as this popular event draws large crowds.

Conclusion

The festival scene in California is as diverse and vibrant as the state itself, offering a wide variety of experiences that reflect the rich tapestry of cultures, lifestyles, and landscapes across the region. Whether you’re interested in cutting-edge music festivals, traditional cultural celebrations, or gourmet food and wine events, California’s 2025 festival lineup has something to offer every kind of festival-goer. For locals and tourists alike, these festivals provide a unique way to experience the essence of California, capturing the spirit of community, creativity, and celebration that defines the state.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the best months to attend festivals in California?

• California’s festival season is nearly year-round, but spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are especially popular due to milder weather and a packed festival lineup. Major events like Coachella, Outside Lands, and Dia de los Muertos take place during these months.

2. Do I need to buy tickets in advance?

• Yes, for many major festivals like Coachella, Outside Lands, and the Palm Springs Film Festival, it’s highly recommended to purchase tickets in advance as they often sell out. For smaller or local festivals, tickets may be available at the door, but early purchase is still advised.

3. Are California festivals family-friendly?

• Many festivals in California are family-friendly, especially county fairs, food festivals, and cultural events like Dia de los Muertos. However, some music festivals may be more suited to adults, so always check age guidelines before attending with children.

4. What should I wear to festivals in California?

• California’s climate varies by region and season. For spring and summer festivals, light, breathable clothing, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes are recommended. In cooler months, especially at outdoor events, it’s best to layer clothing and bring a jacket for the evenings.

5. Are there eco-friendly festivals in California?

• Yes, several California festivals are committed to sustainability. Outside Lands, for example, has eco-friendly initiatives, and the California Roots Music Festival promotes sustainable practices. Many events prioritize recycling, composting, and eco-friendly vendors.

6. How can I stay updated on California festival schedules?

• Most festivals have official websites and social media pages where they post updates, ticket sales, and lineup announcements. Websites like Visit California and Eventbrite also provide listings and ticket information for festivals around the state.

7. Are California festivals accessible for people with disabilities?

• Major festivals generally provide accessible facilities and services, including ADA-compliant seating, accessible restrooms, and parking. It’s a good idea to check the event’s website or contact organizers ahead of time to confirm specific accommodations.

8. Can I bring pets to California festivals?

• Most large festivals do not allow pets, though service animals are usually permitted. Some smaller, outdoor events may be pet-friendly, but always check the festival’s policy beforehand.

9. Are there any California festivals that celebrate local food and wine?

• Absolutely! California is famous for its food and wine festivals, including the San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival, BottleRock Napa Valley, and the Los Angeles Food & Wine Festival. These events often feature tastings, cooking demonstrations, and a chance to sample local produce, wines, and cuisine.

10. Is there public transportation to California festival venues?

• Many festivals, especially those in larger cities, are accessible by public transportation or rideshare services. Festivals like Outside Lands in San Francisco offer shuttle services, while others may have parking or public transit options detailed on their websites.

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