Catalina Island is the place to be all year round. Avalon hosts many events that are sure to please any visitors or Island locals from the arts, shopping, galas, music, marathons and more. 

All events are subject to change. Please see the event website for the latest information.

September

9/10 - 11  Catalina Wine Mixer
Raise a toast to the Original Catalina Wine Mixer from Step Brothers. One of California’s most unique and popular event is held on the picturesque beach of Descanso Beach Club. The event includes an array of entertainment music, food, fun, wine and more.

9/11 - 12  Catalina Crossing US Outrigger Championships
On Saturday, come out and see the women finish the longest Polynesian canoe race in the continental US, 26 miles from Newport Beach to Casino Point, Avalon. Then enjoy the after race Hawaiian festivities at the center of town; including the awards ceremony, music and beer garden. On Sunday, watch the men start their race back to Newport Beach from Lovers Cove. Proceeds of the Catalina Crossing US Outrigger Championships go to support local charities.

9/17 - 19  Catalina Festival of Art
Catalina Festival of Art is one of the longest running and most acclaimed art festivals in California! Artists from all over the country exhibit along Crescent Avenue and sell their works of fine art, sculpture, fine crafts & photography. Highlights include charity art auction and kids art show.

9/17 - 26  Catalina Island Film Festival
Catalina Film Institute hosts the 10th Annual Catalina Film Festival! Catalina Film Institute's Annual Catalina Film Festival features almost 200 films, nightly events and entertainment.

October

10/2  Catalina Island Chili Cook-Off and Salsa Contest
The Catalina Island Chili Cook-off & Salsa Competition will take place from 1PM - 5PM at South Beach. Come sample some of the best world class chili and salsa the Island & beyond has to offer! 

10/7 - 9  Sammy Hagar's Birthday Bash
Join Sammy Hagar for his Birthday Bash on Catalina Island. Visit his website to learn more about how to obtain tickets. 

10/9  Catalina Island Marathon
The Catalina Island Marathon is California’s Oldest Trail Race. This "bucket list' marathon features the exciting and historic marathon course used largely since the first year on the Catalina Island Conservancy’s lands. In addition to the marathon, the weekend features a 10k and 5k.

10/14 - 17  Catalina Island JazzTrax Festival: First Weekend 
The longest-running Smooth Jazz festival includes "Unplugged at Descanso Beach Club" on Thursday night and performances Friday, Saturday and Sunday in Casino Ballroom. 

10/21 - 24  Catalina Island JazzTrax Festival: Second Weekend 
The longest-running Smooth Jazz festival includes "Unplugged at Descanso Beach Club" on Thursday night and performances Friday, Saturday and Sunday in Casino Ballroom. 

10/21  Fall Fest
Fall Fest includes live music, food, games, hay rides, pumpkin patch on the beach and more. 

10/30  Annual Catalina Island Triathlon and Duathlon
Catalina Island is one of the most beautiful and unique settings to host a triathlon. The Catalina Island Triathlon & Duathlon attracts athletes who are looking to compete in that last race before the winter season break. This is a unique and beautiful setting that will challenge the beginner and thrill the veteran.

10/31  Annual Halloween Parade
Join ghouls and ghosts and mermaids and firefighters in a Halloween Parade down Crescent Ave.

November

11/13  Catalina Island Half Marathon
It’s the hardest race you will ever love! The Catalina Island Half Marathon includes more single track terrain than any of the other races on Catalina Island. Starting and finishing in Avalon, experience the spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean and run some of the most beautiful, rugged and breathtaking trails you will ever experience.

11/18  Catalina Island Rugby Festival
A chance to meet old friends, play a little rugby and spend some time in the sun in beautiful Avalon at the Catalina Island Rugby Festival. The tournament raises funds for the Cancer Support Community of Redondo Beach.

11/20 - 21 Ötillö Swimrun Catalina
Ötillö Swimrun Catalina is back! It is primarily a team-sport based on two persons travelling through nature and time, completely dependent on each other. The team alternates between running and swimming along a pre-marked course in nature; it can be between islands or between lakes. As a team you race within 10 meters of each other, you share the experience, the fun, the beauty and the suffering. 

December

12/31  48th Annual New Year's Eve Celebration
The Gala is on for 2021! Dance in the New Year at this black-tie optional event in the world famous Casino Ballroom. Includes gourmet buffet dinner and dessert, dancing to a live band, champagne split to toast the New Year, party favors and the classic midnight balloon drop.

Ongoing Events 

Catalina Island Community Clean Up
Roll up your sleeves and join us in keeping Avalon clean! Reoccuring the 2nd Saturday of the month.

Art To Go by Catalina Island Museum
Geared to children ages 6 – 12, the Catalina Island Museum is now offering “Art to Go.” Every Thursday, art kits will be available for pick up in front of the museum. These kits will include a specific project paired with an art lesson. Instructions and most materials are included. Projects are updated weekly, see the latest project here.