10 min readNov 21, 2025

Things To Do in LA Around Thanksgiving: Events and Attractions

Thanksgiving is a time of togetherness and gratitude, one of those cozy seasons when pumpkin pies bake, sweaters come out, and cold winds roll in. In 2025, the holiday falls on Thursday, November 27, landing right in the middle of the year’s chilliest stretch. As temperatures drop across the Northeast and Midwest, many families trade icy sidewalks for sunshine - and California becomes one of the most popular escape routes. Travelers from New York, Michigan, Ohio, Illinois, and Pennsylvania often head west (or south) when the cold hits, joining the large flow of Americans who leave snow-prone states in favor of warmer regions during late fall.

And while California’s late-November rainy season can bring some showers, the state’s mild temperatures and bright coastlines still feel like a warm welcome compared to freezing winds back east - meaning you can truly enjoy your Thanksgiving celebrations without bundling up like it’s a snowstorm.

Universal Studios Adventures

Universal Studios Hollywood is wide open from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM - because who says turkey should have all the fun? Instead of mashed potatoes, you can mash through cinematic adventures, meet your favorite characters. Of course, there’s no full-blown Thanksgiving parade here, but early hints of holiday cheer- garlands, snowflakes, and even a dash of Grinchmas make the park feel ready for December.

Thanksgiving crowds aren’t too terrifying - average waits hover around 40 minutes - so rise early, grab an Express Pass, and ride like a pro. Hungry? Some table-service restaurants accept reservations, while quick bites like The Three Broomsticks are first-come, first-served. Don’t miss the seasonal goodies: Grinch-themed donuts, hot Butterbeer, and holiday cocktails that scream, “I’m on vacation and I deserve this!” And when you need a breather from adrenaline, take a stroll outside the park: The Grove’s holiday shopping, outdoor ice rinks, Venice Beach boardwalk, or a golden Malibu sunset make perfect post-ride relaxers. Thanksgiving at Universal is basically a two-for-one deal: thrills plus a sneak peek at the holiday magic, without the stress of long lines or holiday chaos.

A Fairytale Feast: Disneyland Week

No place blends the warmth of Thanksgiving with Disney magic quite like Disneyland Resort in Anaheim. During Thanksgiving Week, the park transforms into a fairytale of twinkling lights, festive parades, and mouthwatering themed treats. The variety of dishes is incredible - from roasted turkey legs to Mickey-shaped beignets (and yes, a few extra calories - but don’t worry, “calories don’t count on Thanksgiving”). The best part? Disneyland is open on this special day, welcoming families with magical entertainment and festive cheer.

The worst part is that the park during Thanksgiving week is one of the most crowded and expensive times of the year. In fact, for the week of Thanksgiving, from November 24 to November 29, ticket prices rise from $199 to $224, according to Disney’s website.

Thanksgiving Day itself tends to be a bit less crowded than the surrounding days, giving you a chance to enjoy the park’s magical holiday spirit with just a little more breathing room. And if you’re planning to visit with children, whether from nearby or another state, and want to avoid long drives, we’ve put together a helpful guide to the closest airports to Disneyland so you can get there quickly, skip parking hassles, and start your holiday adventure stress-free.

Raise a Glass: Coastal Wine Tours to Be Thankful For

A Hausa Proverb once noted, “Give thanks for a little, and you will find a lot.” For adults and families with grown kids a coastal wine escape may become the perfect option. California’s wine country from Santa Barbara to Paso Robles and Temecula Valley offers cozy vineyards combined with ocean views and testing that turn every moment into a celebration of togetherness. Just imagine golden hills, a gentle Pacific breeze, and a picnic basket full of local cheese, fresh fruit, and gratitude.

Here is the list of top wine regions recommended for visiting:

Napa Valley: Classic elegance and world-renowned Cabernet Sauvignons.
Sonoma County: Family-run vineyards and cozy, countryside charm.
Paso Robles: Sun-kissed rolling hills and boutique wineries.
Santa Ynez Valley: Ideal for scenic drives and peaceful getaways.
Temecula Valley: Close to LA and San Diego, perfect for a weekend retreat.

So, in case you are planning a wine tour during Thanksgiving week, you can skip the unnecessary stress of driving by renting a comfortable and luxurious private van. Transfers make it easy, safe, and comfortable to sip your way through California’s best vineyards.

Sun, Sand, and Fun: Santa Monica Pier Adventures

Imagine how you are enjoying beachside bliss when the tourist numbers drop and the vibe turns relaxed. Santa Monica in November is a perfect place to make that dream come true. Everything during this season is perfect: warm air, the sunsets turn the sky pink and gold creating a comfortable atmosphere for families craving fun and relaxation. You can spend your day in Santa Monica Pier, where kids can ride the Pacific Wheel, play arcade games and enjoy street performers who fill the boardwalk with energy and fun. As a bonus you can taste seasonal traits like caramel popcorn and warm churros. The Pier is open to the public daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM, including holidays.

Run for a Cause: LA’s Marathons and Parade Cheer

If you are thinking that Thanksgiving is all about pies and parades, then we suggest you add running shoes to this list. The LA’s beloved Turkey Trot Race Day is not just a marathon, it's the official start of the Thanksgiving season. Every year this marathon units thousands of people in downtown LA for a joyful mix of fitness, community and gratitude.

The event runs for three festive days, November 22, November 26, and November 27 with designed courses for every age. Usually races start at 8:00 a.m at Grand Park circling through iconic downtown landmarks. Registration fees range from $45 - $77, mostly depending on the race category and include a finisher’s medal, event T-shirt and post-race snacks.

Turkey Trot Marathon

If you are looking for a fun Thanksgiving morning activity, then Van Nuys Turkey Trot is the best option for you. All the participants are allowed to choose from 5K (3.1 miles), 10K (6.2 miles), 15K (9.3 miles), or Half Marathon routes that wind through the scenic, tree-lined streets of Van Nuys.

The race starts at 7:30 a.m. on Thanksgiving day with registration fees at $40 for adults and $25 for kids. Open to both runners and walkers, it’s a fun, family-friendly way to stay active and enjoy the holiday spirit before sitting down to your Thanksgiving feast.

La Canada Thanksgiving Day Run

Another heartwarming event that you can catch on this day is Thanksgiving Run & Food Drive in La Canada. The event welcomes families with different start times 8:00 a.m. for adults and 9:00 a.m. for kids. By joining this event, you can add deeper meaning to the holiday by combining gratitude with generosity.

And when your sneakers are off and your medals are shining, don’t miss the city’s grand finale: the Hollywood Christmas Parade, rolling down Hollywood Boulevard in late November. This star-studded spectacle marks LA’s magical handoff from Thanksgiving to Christmas, a reminder that in the City of Angels, the season of giving truly runs deep.

Ocean Adventures: Holiday Fun at SeaWorld

If your family is a big fan of marine life and outdoor shows, then SeaWorld San Diego is the ideal destination for you. The park is fully open on Thanksgiving Day and celebrates with dazzling sea life encounters, festive decorations, and themed treats that make the day unforgettable.

While SeaWorld does attract more visitors during the Thanksgiving holiday, it’s generally less crowded than the days that follow, giving families the perfect balance between excitement and space to explore comfortably.

Family Adventures At the San Diego Zoo

If you thought Thanksgiving was all about turkeys, wait until you meet the pandas, elephants, and flamingos at the San Diego Zoo. The zoo is open on Thanksgiving Day, welcoming visitors from across generations to explore nearly 3,500 animals along its lush shaded pathways. Thanksgiving here truly feels like a world tour in a single day - enhanced by seasonal décor and themed events that turn a regular visit into an unforgettable holiday adventure.

For families looking to make the day extra special, the zoo also offers a Thanksgiving Day Buffet in the Treetops Room (two seating: 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m.), priced at $85 for adults and $65 for children ages 3-11, including tax (zoo admission is required for non-members).

It rarely feels overwhelmingly crowded - especially if you arrive early in the day. After your visit, consider complementing it with a stroll through Balboa Park or a visit to Old Town San Diego to wrap up your Thanksgiving celebration in style.

Aquarium of the Pacific - Long Beach

Thanksgiving reminds us to pause and appreciate life’s simplest blessings. For a calm and family-friendly holiday, the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach is open Thursday, November 27, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Watch colorful sea creatures, learn about ocean conservation, and enjoy peaceful harbor views.

Don’t miss the Thanksgiving Feast on the Rooftop Veranda, with traditional favorites like herb-basted turkey, candied yams, and pumpkin desserts. Reservations run 10:30 a.m.–3:00 p.m., and tickets include Aquarium admission: $95 per adult, $72.50 per child ($70/$47.50 for members). It’s a relaxing yet memorable way to celebrate the holiday.

Thanksgiving in Long Beach offers more than just home-cooked turkey - this year, you can enjoy festive feasts without lifting a finger in the kitchen. From ocean-view buffets to elegant dining rooms and global flavors, the city’s top restaurants and cruises serve up memorable ways to give thanks. Whether you crave Mediterranean twists or classic holiday fare, Long Beach has plenty of options to make your Thanksgiving weekend delicious and stress-free.

The Spirit of Thanksgiving, California-Style

It does not matter which destination you choose, a Thanksgiving in California puts one thing above all - gratitude under the sun. Whether you’re riding roller coasters, watching dolphins leap, or toasting at a vineyard, each experience is a reminder that the best holidays aren’t about where you are, but who you’re with.

If Thanksgiving is about slowing down and sharing moments with family, January in California is about stepping out and exploring. From charming small towns to bustling cities hosting festive markets and seasonal events, California offers countless magical places to celebrate Christmas. Whether it’s ice skating in Pasadena, exploring the festive displays in San Francisco, or strolling through the holiday lights in Lake Arrowhead, there’s something for everyone.

So pack your bags, bring your loved ones, and celebrate the holidays the California way — with warmth, joy, sunshine, and memories that last a lifetime.

Thankful, grateful, and ready for the next holiday magic!

How to Match July Events in California to Your Group Plan

Not every event fits every group, and that's part of the fun. Before booking tickets, think about who's coming, how far everyone wants to travel, and what kind of day you're hoping to have. Some groups want a lively afternoon with cocktails, music, and great food. Others prefer a relaxing countryside escape or a family-friendly cultural festival. Couples may enjoy an elegant day at the races, while friends celebrating birthdays might lean toward casino entertainment or craft beer tastings.

Practical details matter just as much. Before heading out, check ticket availability, age restrictions, parking options, expected traffic, walking distances, ferry schedules if applicable, and how everyone will get there and back safely.

Del Mar Opening Day

For many Southern Californians, nothing says summer quite like Del Mar Opening Day. The famous Del Mar races return on Friday, July 17, 2026, with gates opening at 11:30 a.m., welcoming thousands of visitors to the iconic Del Mar Race Track. Whether you know it as the Del Mar horse races, the Del Mar Race Track, or simply the Delmar race track, Opening Day has become one of California's signature summer traditions. It's about much more than horse racing. Fashion plays a starring role, with guests wearing colorful dresses, tailored suits, and elaborate hats that have become synonymous with Opening Day. Add live racing, excellent dining, and an energetic social atmosphere, and it's easy to see why friends, couples, and even corporate groups return year after year. Because this event draws large crowds, it's wise to purchase tickets early, arrive ahead of post time, and plan transportation before race day. Parking fills quickly, and traffic around the venue can become heavy throughout the afternoon.

Ticket prices for Del Mar Opening Day start at around $73 for standard admission, with premium seating and exclusive experiences available at higher prices. Guests can also upgrade to packages like The Party (starting at $134), which includes Opening Day admission plus access to a private party with DJs, bars, and exclusive entertainment. For those planning to continue the celebration, the Official After Pony Party at Rancho Valencia starts at $325 per person (plus fees) and includes a welcome cocktail, an all-night gourmet buffet, live DJ entertainment, and VIP-style amenities. Ticket prices may vary based on availability and seating selection.

Pechanga's Whiskey & Wings Festival

If your group believes great weekends begin with barbecue, live music, and premium whiskey, Pechanga has you covered. Pechanga's Whiskey & Wings Festival returns to Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula on Saturday, July 11, 2026, bringing together some of Southern California's favorite flavors in one lively afternoon. Guests can enjoy unlimited wing tastings paired with whiskey samples while exploring specialty side dishes, live entertainment, and interactive experiences throughout the event.

Attendees also vote for their favorite wing flavor, while a live auction adds even more excitement to the day. Since the festival is exclusively for guests 21 and older, every attendee must present a valid government-issued photo ID upon entry. The event is an excellent choice for adult birthday celebrations, bachelor or bachelorette parties, casino weekends, or simply a fun outing with friends. Because whiskey tastings are part of the experience, having a professional driver allows everyone in the group to relax and fully enjoy the day without worrying about getting home safely.

General Admission starts at $120, while VIP tickets cost $160. Admission includes unlimited whiskey tastings, chicken wings, specialty sides, live music, and access to the live auction. VIP guests also receive early entry for extra tasting time. Designated Driver tickets are available separately.

Two Harbors Brew Fest

If your group has been looking for an excuse to visit Catalina Island, the Two Harbors Brew Fest is a great one. Held on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at Harbor Sands in Two Harbors, this annual event pairs ocean views with craft beer, live music, and Catalina's laid-back island atmosphere. It's an excellent choice for groups of friends, couples, and craft beer lovers looking for a unique summer outing. General Admission starts at $106.01 per person and includes unlimited beer tastings from participating breweries, complimentary appetizers, a limited-edition souvenir beer glass, live entertainment, and access to the Lions Club silent auction. Guests who want an enhanced experience can purchase VIP tickets, which include early entry, exclusive beachfront access, a private cash bar, and additional perks. The festival is for guests ages 21 and older, and a valid photo ID is required for entry. Keep in mind that ferry transportation to Catalina Island is not included with admission and must be booked separately. If your group is traveling from Los Angeles or other Southern California communities, planning transportation to the ferry terminal in advance can make the day much easier. Traveling together eliminates the hassle of coordinating multiple vehicles, paying for parking, and organizing return trips, so everyone can start enjoying the experience before they even reach the island.

Santa Rita Hills Lavender Farm

Not every summer outing has to be fast-paced. If your group would rather spend the afternoon surrounded by fragrant purple fields than cheering from grandstands, the Santa Rita Hills Lavender Farm offers one of California's most peaceful July experiences. The farm's annual Lavender Festival takes place on July 11, 18, and 25, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Admission is free, but guests are encouraged to reserve one of the limited-entry tickets in advance since attendance is capped to create a more enjoyable experience.

Visitors can stroll through blooming lavender fields, browse handcrafted goods from local artisans, enjoy food vendors, sip refreshing lavender lemonade, and listen to live music while taking in the beautiful Santa Ynez Valley scenery. Those looking for a more hands-on activity can also register for optional wreath-making classes using freshly harvested lavender. It's an excellent destination for families, couples, grandparents, photographers, and friends looking for a relaxing summer day trip. If you've searched for Santa Rita Hills Lavender Farm photos, you'll quickly understand why the farm has become such a popular stop during lavender season. The rows of vibrant blooms provide stunning backdrops for summer pictures.

Before visiting, keep a few practical tips in mind. Parking is limited, so arriving early is recommended. Closed-toed shoes are encouraged because visitors will be walking through farm paths, and since the property is an active lavender farm, bees are naturally present around the flowers. Only trained service dogs are permitted on the property.

Planning Around July 4th Events in California

There's no question that Independence Day is one of the busiest travel weekends of the year. From fireworks over the waterfront to concerts, parades, and family celebrations, 4th of July events in California attract huge crowds across the state. However, some groups prefer planning their outings after the holiday rush. The events featured in this guide offer excellent alternatives throughout July, giving travelers more flexibility and often a more relaxed experience. If you're specifically searching for 4th July Los Angeles 2026, 4th of July events Los Angeles, 4th of July events Sacramento, fireworks at Disneyland, celebrations aboard the Queen Mary, the Hollywood Bowl, or waterfront festivities, be sure to check out our dedicated July 4th group travel guide for a complete roundup.

When a Luxury Sprinter Van With a Driver Makes Sense

One of the biggest challenges with group outings isn't choosing the event—it's figuring out how everyone will get there. Multiple cars often mean multiple arrival times, parking headaches, rideshare coordination, and someone volunteering to be the designated driver. For larger groups, that can turn an exciting day into a logistical puzzle before the event even begins. That's especially true for adult festivals like Pechanga's Whiskey & Wings Festival and the Two Harbors Brew Fest, where tastings are part of the experience. It also applies to destinations with limited parking, busy race-day traffic, ferry schedules, or scenic day trips that involve several hours on the road.

Traveling together allows everyone to enjoy the journey instead of worrying about directions, parking lots, or separating into different vehicles. For groups throughout Southern California, TourVanGo provides luxury Mercedes Sprinter van transportation with professional drivers based in Burbank. Their services include airport transfers, corporate outings, wine tours, casino trips, family celebrations, sporting events, concerts, and transportation to destinations across California. Instead of coordinating multiple vehicles, groups can relax, socialize, and arrive together making the day feel like part of the event itself.

Final Thoughts

California proves every July that summer is about much more than Independence Day. Whether your group wants the excitement of the Del Mar horse races, the lively atmosphere of Pechanga's Whiskey & Wings Festival, the cultural traditions of the Long Beach Dragon Boat Festival, the island escape of the Two Harbors Brew Fest, or the peaceful beauty of the Santa Rita Hills Lavender Farm, there's an event that fits almost every travel style. The best group trips aren't just about the destination, they're about spending quality time together without unnecessary stress. Planning ahead, choosing the right event, and arranging reliable transportation can make the difference between a hectic day and an unforgettable one. For groups traveling across Southern California, a luxury Mercedes Sprinter van with a professional driver offers a convenient way to stay together, skip parking hassles, and simply enjoy everything July has to offer.

Must-Visit Spots in California in Late June

Late June is one of the best times to start exploring California before the peak summer crowds arrive. The weather is warm, the days are long, and many of the state's most anticipated events are just getting underway. It's the perfect window for planning outings around evening concerts, outdoor entertainment, and creative summer festivals without dealing with the busiest July travel period.

Whether you're listening to live music under the stars, wandering through an art festival surrounded by coastal scenery, or simply looking for an excuse to spend more time outdoors, late June offers the kind of experiences that make California summers memorable. From iconic concert venues in Los Angeles to artistic communities along the coast, this is when the summer season begins to hit its stride.

The Hollywood Bowl Is Basically California's Outdoor Living Room

There are concert venues. And then there's the Hollywood Bowl. The moment those giant white arches light up, you know you're experiencing one of the most iconic summer traditions in California. Not surprisingly, searches for the Hollywood Bowl seating chart, Hollywood Bowl tickets, and Hollywood Bowl upcoming events explode every summer. People want the best seats, people want the best shows, and people definitely want to know where they're parking before they arrive.

One of the most anticipated performances this summer is the Tabernacle Choir Hollywood Bowl appearance on June 24, 2026. The special Songs of Hope Benefit Concert marks exactly 100 years since the choir first performed at the venue back in 1926.That's right. A full century. While you're planning your evening, remember that Hollywood Bowl parking deserves its own reality TV show. Parking at Hollywood Bowl is limited, fills quickly, and uses stack parking. Translation? If the car in front of you stays until midnight, congratulations, you're staying until midnight too. Considering the Hollywood Bowl capacity exceeds 17,000 guests, planning ahead is strongly encouraged if you'd rather spend the evening enjoying music instead of staring at brake lights.

Sawdust Art Festival in Laguna Beach for Art, Live Music, and Demonstrations

If your idea of a perfect California summer day involves ocean air, live music, and discovering artwork you actually want to take home, the Sawdust Art Festival deserves a spot on your calendar. Running from June 26 through September 6, 2026, the festival is one of Laguna Beach's signature summer attractions and an easy addition to any late-June getaway. Unlike large commercial events that can feel rushed or crowded, the Sawdust Art Festival has a laid-back atmosphere that encourages visitors to slow down, wander, and enjoy the experience. The festival opens daily at 11 AM and features handmade artwork from more than 180 local artists. As you explore the grounds, you'll find everything from paintings and photography to ceramics, jewelry, glasswork, and other one-of-a-kind creations. The experience goes beyond simply browsing art, too. Visitors can enjoy live music performances, watch art demonstrations, and see artists actively working on their craft throughout the day.

One of the festival's most charming features is its setting. The event takes place beneath beautiful eucalyptus groves, creating a relaxed, shaded environment that feels worlds away from the usual Southern California crowds and traffic. It's the kind of place where you might arrive planning to stay for an hour and end up spending the entire afternoon. Before heading out, it's worth planning your transportation. There is limited metered parking outside the Sawdust Art Festival, especially during busy summer weekends. Visitors can also consider nearby city parking lots, and many choose to use the convenient Laguna Free Trolley to reach the festival without worrying about parking altogether. If you're visiting with family or a group of friends, it's smart to decide where everyone will be dropped off and picked up before arriving. A little planning ahead can help you spend more time enjoying the art, music, and atmosphere and less time circling Laguna Beach looking for a parking space.

Must-Visit Spots in California in July

If June is the warm-up act, July is when California summer takes center stage. This is the month when event calendars become packed with county fairs, food vendors, live music, wine tastings, and beachside celebrations happening across the state. It's also one of the best times for larger family outings, group trips, and weekend adventures because so many of California's signature summer events are in full swing. Whether you're looking for carnival rides, concerts, local food, or simply an excuse to spend more time outdoors, July offers no shortage of options.

OC Fair: The Summer Event Californians Never Skip

Ask almost anyone in Southern California when summer officially starts and they'll probably answer with another question: "When does the OC Fair start?" For 2026, the answer is July 17. The OC Fair events schedule includes rides, exhibits, livestock, concerts, contests, food vendors, games, shopping, and enough entertainment to keep a family busy all day. Checking OC Fair hours before visiting is always smart because schedules vary throughout the event. Visitors should also purchase OC Fair & Event Center tickets in advance whenever possible since daily attendance can be limited. One thing is certain. Nobody arrives planning to stay all day. Everybody stays all day.

The 2026 OC Fair runs from July 17 through August 16 in Costa Mesa and is one of Southern California's biggest summer traditions. Visitors can enjoy music, vendors, exhibits, competitions, carnival rides, food, entertainment, animals, arts and crafts, beer, and live music, making it easy to spend an entire day exploring the fairgrounds. If you're planning a visit, keep in mind that OC Fair hours vary by day, and the fair is closed every Monday and Tuesday. Admission is limited daily, so it's best to purchase OC Fair & Event Center tickets in advance. Adult tickets start at $13–$15, while children and seniors are $9, and kids 5 and under get in free.

Parking is available for on-site purchase only, so families and groups should plan their tickets, arrival time, and parking before heading out. After all, the only thing worse than missing your favorite fair attraction is spending half the day waiting in line to get in.

California Wine Festival Santa Barbara for Beachfront Wine Tasting

The California Wine Festival Santa Barbara returns on July 17–18, 2026, bringing two days of coastal wine culture that feels less like a typical tasting event and more like a weekend escape wrapped in ocean air and sunset light.

The experience unfolds across two signature settings. On Friday, guests gather for the Sunset Rare & Reserve Tasting at the iconic Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort, held in the elegant Plaza Del Sol. It’s an evening built around limited-production pours, reserve-level wines, and a relaxed coastal sunset backdrop that sets the tone from the very first glass. Then on Saturday, the energy shifts to the Beachside Wine Festival at Chase Palm Park, where the ocean becomes the backdrop for an open-air celebration of California’s wine and food scene. What makes this weekend especially appealing isn’t just the wine, it’s the full sensory experience layered into every detail.

The festival offers options for casual wine lovers and serious enthusiasts alike. General Admission to Saturday's Beachside Wine Festival starts at $85, while Early Entrance tickets cost $115 and VIP access is $155. The Friday Sunset Rare & Reserve Tasting is $135, and visitors looking to experience both events can choose the 2-Day VIP Festival Pass for $239. All ticket levels include wine and food samples, along with a commemorative wine glass.

Must-Visit Spots in California in August

August is one of those months when California seems determined to give everyone a reason to get outside. Whether you're passionate about automotive history, collector cars, live music, or coastal scenery, the state's summer calendar offers experiences that go far beyond a typical weekend outing. From one of the world's most celebrated automotive gatherings on the Monterey Peninsula to a waterfront jazz festival along the Pacific, August brings together some of California's most memorable seasonal attractions.

Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance for a California Car Show Experience

Car enthusiasts often joke that some vehicles belong in museums. At the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, they're displayed on one of the most famous lawns in the automotive world.

The 75th Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance takes place on Sunday, August 16, 2026, at The Lodge at Pebble Beach in California. Organizers describe the event as the world's premiere celebration of the automobile and an unmatched tradition of automotive excellence that has continued since 1950. What makes the event special is the variety of vehicles on display. Visitors can watch style icons, groundbreaking prototypes, and legendary racing machines compete for some of the highest honors in the collector-car world. For many attendees, it's a rare opportunity to see automotive history gathered in a single location.

Visitors have several ticket options depending on the type of experience they want. 2026 General Admission tickets start at $550 per person, with access to the show field, Concours Village, manufacturer displays, parking, shuttle service, and the official event program. Organizers note that the General Admission price will increase to $650 beginning August 1, 2026, making early booking the more economical choice. For guests looking for a more elevated experience, Club d'Elegance tickets are priced at $1,200 per person and include VIP hospitality benefits such as breakfast and lunch buffets, all-day beverage service, exclusive lounge access, VIP parking, shuttle transportation, and commemorative event gifts. Because the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance attracts automotive enthusiasts from around the world and premium ticket categories can be limited, securing both tickets and transportation well in advance is recommended.

The hardest part about summer in California isn't finding something to do. It's deciding which experience makes the cut. One weekend you're listening to music beneath the stars at the Hollywood Bowl. Next you're browsing handcrafted artwork in Laguna Beach, tasting wine along the Santa Barbara coastline, exploring the OC Fair, admiring world-class collector cars at Pebble Beach, or settling in for a waterfront jazz performance.

Make the Most of California Summer Before It’s Gone

From outdoor concerts and art festivals to wine tastings, county fairs, and world-famous car shows, California's summer calendar is packed with unforgettable experiences. The only challenge is deciding which adventure comes first.

As you plan your Summer 2026 outings, don't forget to think beyond tickets and itineraries. Popular events often come with crowded parking lots, heavy traffic, and transportation headaches. That's where TourVanGo can help. With professional chauffeur-driven Mercedes Sprinter vans for groups, TourVanGo makes it easy to travel comfortably to concerts, festivals, wine events, and special occasions throughout California. Book your plans early, gather your group, and get ready to make the most of another unforgettable California summer.