Dana Point Festival of Whales

Mark the annual gray whale migration from the shore with this festival, now in its 55th year, which offers a full weekend of marine-themed activities, educational exhibits, family-friendly entertainment, whale-watching excursions, marine conservation talks and a cardboard-boat-building contest and Dinghy Dash in Dana Point. Things kick off Friday with a sunset whale-welcoming ceremony by members of the local Acjachemen Nation, followed by a reception with live music and food trucks. This year, the Magical Migration Parade is back after a year off, which will be joined by the second annual Festival of Whales Carnival, complete with carnival rides, games, food and a beer garden with an ocean view. See the full lineup of events here.