Art, fireworks, festivals, and family fun all month long.

By Scott Woodburn, Real Estate Knowledge Broker

Orange County comes alive in July. From patriotic parades and oceanfront festivals to world-renowned art shows, this is the month where SoCal’s sun, surf, and community spirit shine brightest. Whether you’re a local looking for something new or visiting for the first time, here’s your curated calendar of the best things to do and see.

🎨 Art & Culture in Laguna Beach

Festival of Arts Fine Art Show

📍 Laguna Beach
📅 July 2 – August 29, 2025
Explore an open-air art show featuring over 100 local artists. On weekends, enjoy live music, art demos, food, and interactive booths. It’s a celebration of Laguna’s creative soul.

Pageant of the Masters: “Gold Coast – Treasures of California”

📍 Laguna Beach
📅 July 5 – August 29, 2025 at 8:30 PM
Watch classic paintings come to life on stage in this unique performance art tradition. The “living pictures” are recreated using real people, set to narration and music in an outdoor amphitheater.

Sawdust Festival & Laguna Art-A-Fair

📍 Laguna Beach
📅 June 27 – August 31, 2025
Handcrafted booths, art demos, margaritas, and workshops make this a lively experience for all ages. A perfect weekend outing.

🎆 July 4th Celebrations

Citywide Fireworks & Parades

📅 July 4, 2025
🎇 Fullerton: Car show + fireworks
🎇 Costa Mesa: OC Fairgrounds display (July 3)
🎇 Anaheim: Firecracker Run + Parade

Brea Country Fair

📍 Brea
📅 July 4, 2025
Start the day with a pancake breakfast and stay for the live music, classic cars, and small-town charm.

🍺 Cultural & Historical Highlights

German Heritage Day at Old World Village

📍 Huntington Beach
📅 Sunday, July 13, 2025 from 2–8 PM
A free event full of bratwurst, beer, music, and dancing at one of OC’s most iconic cultural destinations.

Boots & Bustles Victorian Fair

📍 Heritage Museum of Orange County, Santa Ana
📅 Saturday, July 19, 2025 from 11 AM – 4 PM
Travel back in time with blacksmith demos, pioneer games, and historic re-enactments.

🌊 Oceanfront Events

San Clemente Ocean Festival

📍 San Clemente Pier
📅 July 19–20, 2025
This beachside bash includes lifeguard competitions, Dory boat races, kids runs, sandcastle contests, and a local art fair.

🎡 The OC Fair Returns

Orange County Fair – “Find Your Happy!”

📍 Costa Mesa
📅 July 18 – August 17, 2025
Rides, fried everything, pig races, live concerts, and local showcases. The OC Fair is the crown jewel of summer fun in Southern California.

🎭 Outdoor Performances

Dana Point Shakespeare Festival – Twelfth Night

📍 Sea Terrace Park, Dana Point
📅 July 11–12, 2025 at 5 PM
A swashbuckling, sunset production with food trucks and local brews. Bring a blanket and enjoy Shakespeare with ocean views.

📅 Quick-View July Calendar

🎯 Insider Tips

• 🎟️ Book Pageant of the Masters and OC Fair concert tickets early—seats go fast.
• 🪑 Bring low-back chairs or blankets for outdoor shows and fireworks.
• 🥨 Dress up for German Heritage Day in traditional attire for extra fun.

Final Thoughts

From fine art to fair food, and oceanfront festivals to historical reenactments, July in Orange County offers something for everyone. Whether you're planning your weekend or building an itinerary for out-of-town guests, this guide has you covered.

If you’d like a printable version of this calendar or recommendations tailored to your location or interests, feel free to reach out!

About the Author
Scott Woodburn is a Southern California native and top 1% Buyer Specialist, helping clients build generational wealth through real estate. As a Real Estate Knowledge Broker, Scott delivers insights that connect lifestyle, investment, and community.