News Summary
Southern California is buzzing with a variety of exciting events from August 1 to 3, including concerts, art festivals, and surf competitions. The region will host the Sawdust Art Festival, the U.S. Open of Surfing, and performances by Lady Gaga and Maren Morris. Additionally, community activities such as movie nights and live music events at local parks are scheduled. With a diverse lineup catering to all interests, this weekend is ideal for residents and visitors looking to soak up the summer atmosphere and enjoy quality entertainment.
Southern California’s Exciting Summer Festivities: Concerts, Art Festivals, and Surf Competitions from August 1–3
Southern California is set to welcome a spectrum of vibrant events this weekend from August 1 to 3, showcasing music, art, surfing, and community activities. With a mixture of beachside festivals, concerts, art shows, and outdoor movie nights, residents and visitors have ample opportunities to enjoy the summer festivities.
This weekend is particularly special as many summer concert series are nearing their end, making it a prime time for attendees to experience local bands and performances before the season wraps up. Here are some highlighted events taking place across the region:
Art and Culture
- Sawdust Art Festival in Laguna Beach: This festival features over 180 local artists, live demonstrations, hands-on classes, live music, and a delectable selection of food and drinks. The festival runs through August 31 at Laguna Canyon Road.
- Pageant of the Masters in Laguna Beach: A unique theatrical art experience that recreates famous artworks every night until August 29, starting around 8:30 p.m.
Surf Competitions
- International Surf Festival in South Bay: This multi-day celebration features surf contests, beach volleyball, paddle races, and lifeguard competitions. The festival runs from July 30 to August 3.
- U.S. Open of Surfing in Huntington Beach: A premier event hosted by the World Surf League that showcases professional surfers, live music, and a vendor village from July 26 to August 3.
Concerts and Live Music
- Lady Gaga – The Mayhem Ball: Scheduled for August 1 and 2 at The Kia Forum, this concert promises theatrical sets and powerful vocals.
- Terranea Sound Series in Rancho Palos Verdes: Enjoy live music with an ocean backdrop featuring Cassie B on Friday and Fair Avenue on Saturday, with doors opening at 6 p.m. and music starting at 7 p.m.
- Redondo Beach Summer of Music: An evening of free live music will take place on the pier on August 2 from 6–8 p.m. at Fisherman’s Wharf.
- Manhattan Beach Concerts in the Park: A family-friendly concert is scheduled for August 3 from 5–7 p.m. at the Polliwog Park Amphitheater.
- Maren Morris: The Dreamsicle Tour at The Wiltern: A performance on August 2 at 6:30 p.m.
- Hard Summer Festival in Hollywood Park: This two-day EDM and hip-hop festival features notable artist performances on August 2 and 3.
- OC Fair & The Hangar Tribute Shows in Costa Mesa: The fair runs Wednesdays–Sundays through August 11, with a Pink Floyd tribute band set to perform on August 2 at 8:15 p.m.
Additional Entertainment
- Angel City FC Watch Party in El Segundo: Join fellow fans on August 1 at 3:00 p.m. at Rock & Brews to catch the match against the Seattle Reign.
- Rooftop Movies at The Montalbán: Screenings of classic films Scarface and Beverly Hills Cop are set for August 1 and 3 at 8:15 p.m.
This weekend’s lineup in Southern California offers a diverse mix of events across various venues, catering to all interests. With everything from surfing competitions to lively music festivals, the summer atmosphere is expected to be electric. The Hard Summer Festival will also add to the excitement with live performances and after-parties enhancing the festive vibe throughout the region.
The abundance of activities ensures there is something for everyone to enjoy, making August 1-3 a weekend not to be missed in Southern California.
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Additional Resources
- LAist: Best Things to Do This Weekend
- TimeOut: Things to Do in Los Angeles
- Mommy Poppins: Summer Festivals and Carnivals in LA
- KTLA: Take the Surfliner to Southern California Events
- ABC7: Disability Pride Month Events in Southern California
- Wikipedia: Southern California
- Google Search: Southern California events August
- Google Scholar: Southern California festivals
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Southern California
- Google News: events in Southern California
Author: STAFF HERE COSTA MESA
The Costa Mesa Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HERECostaMesa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Costa Mesa, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the OC Fair, performances at the Pacific Amphitheatre, and community gatherings at The LAB Anti-Mall. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce and Visit Costa Mesa, plus leading businesses in retail, entertainment, and innovation that shape the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HERESantaAna.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
