Summer in Full Swing: Can’t-Miss August Events in Laguna Beach

August in Laguna Beach is a vibrant celebration of art, music, community, and coastal charm. Whether you're a local or planning a late-summer getaway, this beachside town offers a calendar full of experiences you won’t want to miss. From world-renowned art festivals to free concerts in the park, here’s your guide to the best events happening in Laguna Beach this August 2025.

Festival of Arts & Pageant of the Masters

Dates: July 2 – August 29, 2025
Location: 650 Laguna Canyon Road
Step into a world where art comes to life—literally. The Festival of Arts is a juried fine art show featuring over 100 local artists, live music, wine tastings, and interactive art demos. Come evening, the world-famous Pageant of the Masters takes center stage, recreating classical and contemporary works of art with real people posing in elaborate sets. This year’s theme, “Gold Coast: Treasures of California,” promises to dazzle.

Learn more & get tickets

Sawdust Art Festival

Dates: June 27 – August 31, 2025
Location: 935 Laguna Canyon Road
If you’re looking for something a bit more bohemian, head across the street to the Sawdust Art Festival. This beloved local tradition showcases 180 Laguna Beach artists in a whimsical village setting. With live music on three stages, glassblowing and pottery demos, art classes for all ages, and delicious local eats, it’s a perfect outing for the whole family.

Plan your visit

Laguna Art-A-Fair

Dates: June 27 – August 31, 2025
Location: 777 Laguna Canyon Road
Art-A-Fair rounds out the trio of summer art festivals, featuring artists from across the globe. From sculpture to jewelry and photography, you’ll discover a wide variety of fine art forms in a serene garden setting. Bonus: live music on weekends and frequent artist workshops.

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Music in the Park

Dates: Sunday evenings through August (concerts begin at 5 PM)
Location: Bluebird Park
Bring your picnic basket and low-back beach chair for a Laguna local favorite: free concerts in Bluebird Park. This family-friendly series features an eclectic lineup of live bands each Sunday evening, set in one of the most scenic parks in town.

See full lineup

Tribute Bands, Jazz Nights & Pairing Events

Dates: Wednesdays & Thursdays in August
Location: Festival of Arts Grounds
Every week, the Festival of Arts hosts themed evenings including Tribute Band Wednesdays, Jazz Thursdays, and Wine & Chocolate Pairings. Come early before the Pageant and enjoy curated entertainment and tastings with your art.

View the special events calendar

First Thursdays Art Walk

Date: Thursday, August 7, 2025 | 6 PM – 9 PM
Location: Downtown Laguna Beach
Laguna Beach’s gallery scene opens its doors for a free evening of exhibits, artist meet-and-greets, and live performances. Trolley service is provided, making it easy to explore at your own pace.

More details here

Bonus for the Little Ones: Ocean Institute at Rivian

Date: Wednesday, August 6, 2025 | 10 AM
Location: Rivian South Coast Theater
Hosted in partnership with the Ocean Institute, this hands-on marine science experience is geared toward kids and families, blending education and fun in a coastal-themed setting.

Check the full event list

Final Tips for August Visitors:

• Parking: Arrive early or use the city’s trolley system to avoid traffic headaches.

• Tickets: Buy ahead online for Pageant of the Masters and special festival events.

• What to Bring: Layers for cooler evenings, sunscreen for mid-day, and comfy shoes for gallery-hopping.

Whether you're soaking in the magic of a “living painting” under the stars or dancing barefoot to live music in the park, August in Laguna Beach offers something special for every age and interest. Make the most of the season—and maybe even make a few traditions of your own.

Let us know if you’d like personalized event recs or local dining ideas to round out your day in Laguna!