Top Events and Festivals on Catalina Island Fall 2019
Image: @reegz_86
Fall may be back to school season – but it’s also the perfect time to slip away for a little island getaway. From the lack of crowds to the weather, the food and diverse line up of events – fall is one of the best times to visit Catalina Island! Check out our list of the top events & festivals on Catalina Island this fall!
Best Weather
The weather in Catalina Island is at its best during the fall and spring, making fall one of the best times to visit. With crisp air, sunny skies and beautiful blue waters, it’s the perfect time to visit our beautifully warm island.
Low Crowds
Imagine having an island vacation without the busy summer crowds. Catalina Island during the fall is less trafficked, meaning you’ll have a fun time in the sun and sand with less competition for popular activities like zip lining, glass bottom boat tours, golfing and shopping.
Whale Migration
Every October, whales begin their 6,000-mile journey from Alaska to Baja Mexico to breed. This means that on your boat ride to and from the island and while relaxing on the beach, you can spot these gentle giants making their way South.
Lobster Season
Foodies everywhere can celebrate the launch of spiny lobster season on Sept. 29th! Throughout the fall, lobster hunters collect these tasty crustaceans around Catalina Island by net and scuba diving. Prefer to enjoy your meal without the work? Many local restaurants on the island feature lobster on their menus!
Fun Fall Events
Get out and enjoy Catalina Island like a local with these fun events going on this fall!
Sept 6 & 7
Touted as one of the most unique and entertaining wine and music events of the year, it is no wonder that Catalina’s Wine Mixer has become a sell-out affair. Sample and purchase high-end wines, eat delicious food, dance to the best music and finish the weekend off with the annual showing of Step Brothers!
Annual Catalina Festival of Art
Sept 20-22
As the longest-running art event in California, the Catalina Festival of Art brings artists from all over the world to show and sell their unique creations. Peruse through photography, sculptures, paintings and more or enjoy the children’s art show and charity art auction!
Sept 25-29
Voted by filmmakers as one of the top 50 film festivals in the world; the Catalina Film Festival features over 100 films, nightly events and endless entertainment.
Oct 3-6
Don yer best and make like a pirate for the 30th Annual Buccaneer Days on Catalina Island. This fun 4-day event features live music, buried treasure hunts, gruel and grog for one and all!
October 31
Put on your favorite costume and join island residents, visitors and school children for the annual Halloween parade down Crescent Avenue. Come goblins, ghouls, witches and more for this Spooktacular family-friendly event!
Nov 2
Swim, bike and run across beautiful landscapes in Avalon at this end of the season event! This race allows athletes to challenge themselves while getting to experience the diverse terrain and stunning landscapes Catalina Island has to offer.
November 16
Experience the beauty of Catalina Island with this ultimate trail running event. Run through peaks, vistas and popular attractions and be rewarded at the summit by a breath-taking view of the Pacific Ocean and the other islands.
Live Music Events
During the fall months, there are a host of live music events on Catalina Island that encompass an eclectic mix of genres that will have you booking the next boat here! Highlights include:
Groove IslandSept 27-30
A must-attend music event of the year, Groove Island is organized by the internationally acclaimed “Groove Cruise” and promises a fully immersive music experience with beautiful island scenery. Featuring beloved EDM artists, a zipline, eco tours and other island adventures this event blends music and a Catalina experience perfectly.
Oct 10-13 and 17-20
As the longest-running smooth jazz festival in the world, the Jazz Trax Festival brings the best vibes and artists from all over the globe. With over 22 of the biggest names in smooth jazz playing over the two consecutive weekends- you’re guaranteed to see the show of a lifetime.
Oct 12
Chart-topping saxophonist and composer Euge Groove will be dazzling the Avalon Ballroom with his smooth jazz and funk inspired music played alongside his old friends Perry White and Lindsey Webster.
Hot off the Range Catalina Concert Series
Oct 17
For over two decades Hot Off the Range has been a local favorite in Avalon. Featuring local bands from a vast array of different genres, this event will get music lovers of all persuasions up and moving!