Mark your calendar for this year’s hottest events
Parades, festivals, and the performing arts draw the Orange County beach communities together for sun and fun. Scroll through 11 of Newport’s most exciting events for summer 2019 and discover something for everyone.
May 31–June 2 | Hyatt Regency Newport Beach Jazz Festival
Don’t miss summer’s kickoff event. The annual three-day festival has featured the biggest names in jazz since 1954. This year’s lineup includes Sax to the Max, Morris Day and the Time, George Benson, and other renowned artists for an unforgettable evening of music, food, and friends to feed your soul. Details
June 1 | Corona del Mar Scenic 5K
Every year, competitive runners and amateurs alike look forward to weaving through the gorgeous Corona del Mar real estate during this legendary 5K event in CdM Village. Enter the 5K or 2-mile Celebration Walk, and cheer on kids in the Dolphin Dash. Live entertainment and an awards ceremony are included; plus, registrants are treated to a complimentary post-event feast at local eateries. Details
June 2 | Balboa Island Parade
An island tradition for the whole family, the 26th annual parade and after party’s theme this year is “Our Treasured Island.” Bring your beach chairs and watch the spectacle—children on bikes, island dogs, decorated golf carts, vintage cars, floats, and marching bands—followed by live music and dancing in the street! Details
June 15 | Newport Beach Art Exhibition
The Newport Beach City Arts Commission will host the 55th annual juried art exhibit, showcasing more than 250 works of art. Held at the civic center, the event is free to the public, giving art lovers a day to view and purchase original paintings, sculptures, and photography, while enjoying food, live entertainment, and an awards reception. Details
June 16 | Concerts on the Green
June 16 kicks off the first of four concerts to be held at the Newport Beach Civic Center Green. The City of Newport Beach sponsors the series every summer, free to the public. Bring beach chairs, blankets, and a picnic dinner (or buy from gourmet food trucks), and get into an eclectic mix of music, starting with The Side Deal. Details
June 23–30 | Baroque Music Festival
Experts in classical music of the Baroque era will perform five concerts over the eight-day festival’s 39th season. Titled “Bach: The Master and His Milieu,” the performances include large-scale works, solo recitals, and chamber music at various venues, including Sherman Library & Gardens in Corona del Mar. Details
June 28–September 1 | Sawdust Art & Craft Festival
Held in Laguna Beach—Newport’s neighbor to the south—this massive art-and-craft event draws crowds from across Orange County. Meander along sawdust paths within a hand-built, open-air village where the Sawdust (a nonprofit now in its 53rd year) exhibits the work of local artisans and offers art classes year-round. Details
July 4 | Independence Day on the Back Bay
Bring your beach chairs and umbrellas for a fun day at the bay. It begins at 2 p.m. and crescendos after nightfall with the most spectacular fireworks display in Orange County. Enjoy tribute bands that play Credence Clearwater, Santana, and Journey; rent kayaks and paddleboats; order drinks at the full bars; and eat at on-site food trucks. Details
July 7–August 31 | Pageant of the Masters
Art comes to life at this world-class event in Laguna Beach where humans pose within elaborate tableaux vivants, living re-creations of classical and contemporary works of art. This year’s theme is “The Time Machine,” a journey back and forth in time to art discoveries around the globe. The exhibition takes place in an outdoor amphitheater and features a live orchestra. Details
July 10–September 18 | Sunset Jazz at Newport
Now in its 10th year, the 11-week series of Wednesday evening jazz concerts begins July 10. Relax in the Rose Garden at Newport Beach Marriott Hotel & Spa, wine and dine alfresco, and listen to a different group each night. Sway to the music of such greats as The Four Freshman, John Pizzarelli Quartet, and The Tom Kubis Big Band. Details
August 17 and 18 | Pacific Food & Wine Classic
Reserve your place at Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort for this award-winning food-and-wine extravaganza. The more than 60 local chefs serving summer-inspired cuisine include Brian Huskey of Tackle Box and Alejandra Padilla of Five Crowns. Details