South OC November Events 2026: 4 Holiday-Season Picks
Andrea Ballesteros November 3, 2026
Andrea Ballesteros November 3, 2026
November is one of the best months to be in South Orange County. The weather is still beach-friendly, the art scene is in full swing, and the holiday season starts to sparkle along the coast. These four events cover the month from start to finish: outdoor art on Main Beach, a holiday market at a seaside estate, a winter wonderland in Laguna Canyon, and a Thanksgiving morning run in the harbor. Save the dates and bring the whole family.
When: November 1–9, 2026 · Where: Laguna Art Museum and Main Beach, Laguna Beach
Laguna Art Museum's 14th annual Art + Nature celebrates where creativity and environmental awareness meet. This year's commissioned artist is Laguna's own Kim Manfredi. Her participatory installation, A Flag Walk for Our Future, comes to life November 5–9.
Expect outdoor art, free events and hands-on activities for all ages. It's the perfect chance to explore, interact and make art together right by the ocean. Pair it with a walk along Main Beach and lunch downtown, and you have an ideal Laguna day.
Good to know: Celebration Week is already underway, so plan your visit for this week, especially Nov. 5–9 to catch the Flag Walk installation.
Learn more at lagunaartmuseum.org
When: Sunday, November 15, 2026, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. · Where: Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens, 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente
Get a head start on holiday shopping at one of the most beautiful settings in Orange County. Casa Romantica, the 1927 Spanish Colonial Revival estate of San Clemente founder Ole Hanson, sits on the bluffs with sweeping Pacific views. For the Very Merry Marketplace, it fills with festive finds that make great gifts.
Take your time browsing, then wander the seaside gardens before heading into downtown San Clemente for brunch.
See details at casaromantica.org
When: Fridays–Sundays, November 20–December 20, 2026, 11 a.m.–7 p.m. · Where: Sawdust Festival Grounds, 935 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach
The Sawdust grounds turn into a holiday village for five three-day weekends. More than 180 local artists sell handmade gifts, from jewelry and glass to ceramics and paintings. Live entertainment plays on three stages.
Kids will love the visits with Santa, the falling "snow," the petting zoo and the puppet shows. Grown-ups will love finding one-of-a-kind gifts while supporting local artists. Glassblowing demos and holiday art classes make it easy to stay all afternoon.
Admission: Adults $12, seniors $10, kids 6–12 $5, ages 5 and under free.
Get tickets at sawdustartfestival.org
When: Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 26, 2026 (10K at 7 a.m., 5K at 8:30 a.m.) · Where: Dana Point Harbor, 25001 Dana Point Harbor Dr.
Start Thanksgiving with one of the largest turkey trots in the country. Choose a 5K, a 10K or the 15K combo, or sign the little ones up for the Kids' 1-Mile Gobble Wobble. Registration includes a commemorative T-shirt and a finisher medal, and proceeds benefit local Dana Point charities.
Costumes are encouraged, so break out the turkey hats. Skip the parking hunt: free shuttles run from Dana Hills High School starting at 5:30 a.m.
Education
Breaking Down This Coastal Market by What You're Actually Buying.
Inside Newport Beach's Walkable Village by the Sea.
Inside the City Ole Hanson Called "A Painting Five Miles Long".
We will work tirelessly to ensure you have the best experience whether you are selling your home, looking to purchase an investment property or searching for your forever house. We are here for you and don’t just walk away after closing. We pride ourselves on our long term relationships with our clients and will guide you through all the necessities you need before, during and after your selling or buying experience.