September is one of the best months to experience California. The summer crowds begin to ease, coastal weather remains excellent, wine country enters harvest season, and cities across the Golden State fill their calendars with music festivals, food events, cultural celebrations, art shows, fairs, sporting events, and early fall attractions.
From California Wine Month and the Monterey Jazz Festival to the Ohana Festival, Solvang Danish Days, Sausalito Boat Show, Route 66 Cruisin’ Reunion, and the opening of Los Angeles’ new Lucas Museum of Narrative Art, September 2026 offers something for almost every kind of traveler.
The official Visit California September 2026 calendar highlights events throughout Northern, Central, and Southern California, making September an excellent time for a California road trip.
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Quick Guide to California Events in September 2026
| Event | Date | Location | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| California Wine Month | September 1–30 | Statewide | Wine lovers |
| Paul Bunyan Days | September 4–7 | Fort Bragg | Families & heritage |
| Santa Barbara County Farm Day | September 6 | Santa Barbara County | Families |
| Sequoia Dark Sky Festival | September 11–13 | Sequoia & Kings Canyon | Stargazing |
| Festa Italia | September 11–13 | Monterey | Food & culture |
| Solvang Danish Days | September 18–20 | Solvang | Culture & families |
| Monterey Jazz Festival | September 25–27 | Monterey | Music lovers |
| Ohana Festival | September 25–27 | Dana Point | Concerts |
| Same Same But Different | September 25–27 | Lake Perris | Music & wellness |
| Ocean Way Festival | September 26–27 | Santa Monica | Music & beach |
| Portola Music Festival | September 26–27 | San Francisco | Electronic music |
| Underwood Fall Harvest Festival | Begins September 26 | Moorpark | Families |
1. California Wine Month — All September
If there is one statewide celebration that defines September in California, it is California Wine Month.
Throughout September, wineries across regions such as Napa Valley, Sonoma County, Paso Robles, Santa Barbara County, Temecula Valley, and the Central Coast host tastings, vineyard tours, harvest experiences, dinners, and other special events.
September is particularly interesting because California’s wine regions begin moving into harvest season. Visitors can combine winery visits with scenic drives, outdoor dining, farmers markets, and vineyard experiences.
For travelers interested in food and wine, California Wine Month is one of the best reasons to plan a September road trip.
Best for: Couples, foodies, wine lovers and weekend getaways.
2. Paul Bunyan Days — Fort Bragg
September 4–7, 2026
Head to Fort Bragg on the Mendocino Coast for Paul Bunyan Days, one of Northern California’s long-running community celebrations.
The festival celebrates the area’s logging history and features a combination of family activities, traditional competitions, food, music and quirky events. Visitors can expect activities such as a logging show, tricycle races, barbecue, local beverages and a famous fireman’s water fight.
The event has been part of Fort Bragg’s identity since 1939, making it particularly interesting for travelers looking for something beyond California’s major metropolitan festivals.
3. Santa Barbara County Farm Day
September 6, 2026
California’s agricultural landscape gets a spotlight during Santa Barbara County Farm Day.
More than 15 farms, ranches and agricultural organizations open their doors for tours and activities across Santa Barbara County and the Santa Ynez Valley.
Visitors can experience tractor rides, tastings, demonstrations, farm tours and family activities while learning about the crops and agricultural products produced in the region.
It is an especially good choice for families because many activities are designed to be educational as well as entertaining.
4. Redding Roots Revival
September 11–12, 2026 — Redding
Music lovers heading into Northern California should consider Redding Roots Revival.
The two-day festival brings national and regional performers to several stages around downtown Redding. The setting also gives visitors an opportunity to combine live music with the outdoor attractions of the surrounding Shasta Cascade region.
With multiple stages and more than 15 acts scheduled, it is a strong choice for travelers who prefer smaller music festivals with a regional feel rather than enormous city festivals.
5. Winesong — Fort Bragg
September 11–12, 2026
The Mendocino Coast combines wine, food and scenery during Winesong.
Friday focuses on Pinot, while Saturday features a major tasting at Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens with more than 100 wineries, breweries, spirits producers and restaurants.
The event also supports rural healthcare through the Mendocino Coast Healthcare Foundation, giving visitors an opportunity to enjoy a food-and-wine weekend while supporting a local cause.
6. Sequoia Dark Sky Festival
September 11–13, 2026
For something completely different, head into the mountains for the Sequoia Dark Sky Festival at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.
The event focuses on astronomy and nighttime exploration, with activities including stargazing, talks and educational programs. The parks’ dark skies provide an excellent backdrop for viewing stars away from the lights of California’s major cities.
Daytime visitors can explore giant sequoias and mountain scenery before staying into the evening for astronomy activities.
The event is particularly attractive for families, photographers and anyone interested in astronomy. Visit California describes it as one of Central California’s major dark-sky events.
7. Festa Italia — Monterey
September 11–13, 2026
Monterey celebrates its Italian heritage with Festa Italia, a weekend centered around food, music, dancing and cultural traditions.
Expect Italian favorites including pasta, calamari, arancini, cannoli, sausage sandwiches and other festival foods.
The event reflects Monterey’s historic connection to Italian immigrants and the fishing communities that helped shape the city.
For visitors already exploring Monterey, Cannery Row and the Central Coast, Festa Italia can easily become part of a larger weekend itinerary.
8. Ventura Art & Street Painting Festival
September 12–13, 2026
Art takes over Ventura during the Ventura Art & Street Painting Festival.
Visitors can browse paintings, photography, pottery, jewelry and other artwork while watching artists transform sidewalks into large-scale chalk murals.
Families are also catered to with dedicated children’s activities.
The combination of an outdoor art market, street painting and the Ventura waterfront makes this a good choice for travelers looking for a relaxed Central Coast weekend.
9. Solvang Danish Days
September 18–20, 2026
The charming Central Coast town of Solvang becomes even more Scandinavian during Solvang Danish Days.
The 2026 celebration marks the festival’s 89th edition and features Danish food, music, dancing, traditional celebrations and a parade.
One of the most recognizable traditions is the aebleskiver breakfast, featuring the spherical Danish pancakes associated with Solvang.
If you’re planning a Santa Barbara or Santa Ynez Valley trip in September, Danish Days is an excellent reason to add Solvang to the itinerary.
10. Open Studios Napa Valley
September 19–20 and September 26–27, 2026
Art lovers can explore Napa Valley beyond wineries during Open Studios Napa Valley.
More than 50 artists participate in self-guided studio tours across Napa and nearby communities. Visitors can meet artists, watch demonstrations and purchase locally created artwork.
The two-weekend format makes it easier to build a customized Napa itinerary combining art, wine, restaurants and scenic drives.
11. Monterey Jazz Festival
September 25–27, 2026
One of California’s biggest September music events is the Monterey Jazz Festival.
The festival takes place at Monterey County Fairgrounds and features dozens of performances spread across multiple stages.
The 2026 lineup includes major names such as Herbie Hancock and Ron Carter, Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis, Ravi Coltrane and Cécile McLorin Salvant.
With its combination of world-class jazz and Monterey’s coastal setting, this is one of the standout music events on California’s September calendar.
12. Halloween Horror Nights — Los Angeles
Begins September 3, 2026
Halloween arrives early in Southern California with Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood.
The 2026 event features haunted houses, scare zones and other nighttime attractions, with experiences inspired by properties including Hellraiser, Stranger Things 5 and Sinners.
The event runs from September into November, making September a good opportunity to experience the Halloween atmosphere before the peak October crowds.
Best for: Adults, teenagers and horror fans.
13. The Maritime Festival — Dana Point
September 11–13, 2026
Dana Point’s waterfront becomes a celebration of maritime history during The Maritime Festival.
The event features mock cannon battles, pirate adventures, mermaid shows and activities aboard multiple ships.
Visitors can also enjoy live music, food trucks and vendors around the waterfront.
For travelers exploring Orange County, the festival offers a different side of Southern California beyond beaches and theme parks.
14. Route 66 Cruisin’ Reunion — Ontario
September 18–19, 2026
California is celebrating the centennial of Route 66 in 2026, making September a particularly good month for road-trip enthusiasts.
The Route 66 Cruisin’ Reunion in Ontario brings classic cars, live music and Americana-style entertainment to the original Route 66 corridor.
The event showcases dozens of blocks of classic automobiles and provides a nostalgic look at one of America’s most famous highways.
15. Lucas Museum of Narrative Art Opens in Los Angeles
Opens September 22, 2026
One of the biggest cultural openings of September is the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art in Los Angeles.
Located in Exposition Park, the enormous museum focuses on visual storytelling through areas such as film, comics, children’s books and other forms of narrative art.
The museum features approximately 300,000 square feet and dozens of galleries.
Tickets for opening-period dates are available in advance, making this one of the most significant new attractions for visitors coming to Los Angeles in late September.
16. Ohana Festival — Dana Point
September 25–27, 2026
Music fans should put Ohana Festival high on their California September itinerary.
Held at Doheny State Beach in Dana Point, the three-day festival combines a major music lineup with the Southern California beach atmosphere.
The 2026 lineup includes Pearl Jam, Maná, Billy Idol, Bad Religion, Tyler Childers, Jon Batiste and the Pixies, among others.
Because the festival takes place directly alongside the Southern California coastline, it offers a distinctly California festival experience.
17. Same Same But Different Music Festival
September 25–27, 2026 — Lake Perris
For a more relaxed music festival experience, Same Same But Different takes place at Lake Perris State Park.
The weekend combines music with art installations, yoga, wellness activities and outdoor recreation.
Because visitors can also swim, paddleboard and enjoy the lake, this is an appealing option for travelers who want their festival weekend to include more than concerts.
18. Ocean Way Festival — Santa Monica
September 26–27, 2026
A new music festival is coming to Santa Monica’s beach in September 2026.
Ocean Way Festival combines live music with an oceanfront setting, with The Killers and Olivia Dean among the headliners.
The lineup also includes artists such as Sublime, Jack White and Durand Jones & the Indications.
For visitors staying in Los Angeles, this could be one of the most visually distinctive music events of the month.
19. Portola Music Festival — San Francisco
September 26–27, 2026
San Francisco’s Pier 80 hosts Portola Music Festival, a two-day electronic and alternative music event.
The 2026 lineup includes artists such as Robyn, Swedish House Mafia, Zara Larsson and Dog Blood.
The festival is designed for adults and is listed as a 21-and-over event, making it more appropriate for groups of friends and nightlife-focused travelers than families.
20. Pacific Coast Fog Fest — Pacifica
September 26–27, 2026
Pacifica celebrates one of its most recognizable natural characteristics during Pacific Coast Fog Fest.
The free community event combines a parade, live music, local food and craft vendors.
It is a particularly good choice for travelers who want to experience a smaller Bay Area community event rather than a major ticketed festival.
21. Underwood Family Farms Fall Harvest Festival
Begins September 26, 2026 — Moorpark
Fall begins early at Underwood Family Farms.
The Fall Harvest Festival features a pumpkin patch, corn maze, farm animals, wagon rides and hay-climbing pyramids.
Different weekends feature different themes, with additional entertainment such as live music, pig races and roaming performers.
For families traveling around Los Angeles and Ventura County, this is one of the best September events for children.
Best September Events by Region
Northern California
Northern California is ideal for travelers interested in wine, art, coastal scenery and smaller community festivals.
Top choices include:
- Paul Bunyan Days in Fort Bragg
- Winesong in Fort Bragg
- Redding Roots Revival
- Windsor Chili Cook-Off
- Calistoga Harvest Table
- Open Studios Napa Valley
- Sausalito Boat Show
- Valley of the Moon Vintage Festival
- Portola Music Festival
- Pacific Coast Fog Fest
The region is particularly attractive for a September road trip because visitors can combine wine country with the Mendocino Coast, San Francisco Bay Area and Gold Country.
Best September Events in Central California
Central California is perfect for combining festivals with scenic road trips.
Recommended events include:
- Santa Barbara County Farm Day
- Festa Italia in Monterey
- Sequoia Dark Sky Festival
- Ventura Art & Street Painting Festival
- Solvang Danish Days
- Whale Rock Music & Arts Festival
- Monterey Jazz Festival
A Central Coast itinerary can easily connect Santa Barbara, Solvang, San Luis Obispo, Paso Robles and Monterey.
Best September Events in Southern California
Southern California offers some of the biggest entertainment choices in the state.
Top September events include:
- Halloween Horror Nights
- Norco Fair
- The Maritime Festival
- Route 66 Cruisin’ Reunion
- Lucas Museum opening
- Ohana Festival
- Same Same But Different
- Ocean Way Festival
- Underwood Fall Harvest Festival
- San Diego Spirits Festival
This region works particularly well for travelers combining Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego and the Inland Empire.
Best California Events in September for Families
Families have plenty of options in September.
Some of the best choices include Santa Barbara County Farm Day, Underwood Family Farms Fall Harvest Festival, Pacific Coast Fog Fest, Paul Bunyan Days, Ventura Art & Street Painting Festival, Valley of the Moon Vintage Festival, and Sequoia Dark Sky Festival.
Families should check age restrictions and ticket requirements before traveling, especially for evening Halloween events and major concerts.
Best California Events in September for Music Lovers
California’s September music calendar is especially strong.
The Monterey Jazz Festival is the obvious choice for jazz fans, while Ohana Festival, Ocean Way Festival, Portola Music Festival, Redding Roots Revival, and Whale Rock Music & Arts Festival offer very different musical experiences.
If you’re planning around music, book accommodations early because major festival weekends can increase demand in coastal destinations.
Best Free Things to Do in California in September
California also offers several ways to enjoy September without spending heavily on admission.
One notable date is September 17, National Park Free Entrance Day, when participating national parks offer fee-free entry in recognition of Constitution Day.
September 20 is California Surfing Day, another opportunity to head to the coast and experience one of the state’s signature sports.
Other free or low-cost events include Pacific Coast Fog Fest and portions of Valley of the Moon Vintage Festival, while many community festivals throughout the state have free public areas.
Best California September Weekend Getaways
Labor Day Weekend: September 4–7
Consider Fort Bragg for Paul Bunyan Days, Norco for its annual fair, or the Central Coast for a quieter beach getaway.
September 11–13
This is an excellent weekend for Monterey, Sequoia and Kings Canyon, Santa Barbara County or Fort Bragg.
September 18–20
Solvang Danish Days, Open Studios Napa Valley and various Bay Area festivals make this a strong weekend for culture, food and art.
September 25–27
This is arguably the busiest major-event weekend of the month, with the Monterey Jazz Festival, Ohana Festival, Ocean Way Festival, Portola Music Festival, Sausalito Boat Show and other events happening around the state.
California Weather in September 2026
September is generally an excellent travel month in California, but conditions vary dramatically by region.
Coastal areas such as San Diego, Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, Monterey and San Francisco can remain comfortable and sunny, although evenings may be cool.
Inland Southern California can still be very hot during the day, while mountain destinations can become considerably cooler after sunset.
If you’re attending outdoor festivals, bring layers, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes and a light jacket for evenings.
Tips for Attending California Events in September 2026
Book early for major festivals. Events such as Ohana Festival and Monterey Jazz Festival can make nearby hotels significantly more competitive.
Plan around geography. California is enormous. Do not assume that two events that look close on a statewide calendar are easy to visit on the same day.
Reserve wine-country experiences. Napa, Sonoma, Paso Robles and Santa Barbara wineries can become busy during harvest season.
Check parking and transportation. Large festivals often have dedicated parking, shuttles or rideshare zones.
Pack layers. California September temperatures can change considerably between morning, afternoon and evening.
Check official event pages before leaving. Festival schedules, admission rules and performance times can change.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the biggest events in California in September 2026?
Some of the biggest September events include the Monterey Jazz Festival, Ohana Festival, Portola Music Festival, Ocean Way Festival, California Wine Month, Halloween Horror Nights and the opening of the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art.
What is happening in California on Labor Day weekend 2026?
Labor Day weekend runs September 4–7, 2026. Major events include Paul Bunyan Days in Fort Bragg and Norco Fair, along with many local beach, food and community events.
Is September a good time to visit California?
Yes. September is one of California’s strongest travel months because summer weather continues across much of the state while some peak-season crowds begin to decline. It is also harvest season in many wine regions.
What is the best California event for families in September?
Underwood Family Farms’ Fall Harvest Festival, Santa Barbara County Farm Day, Ventura Art & Street Painting Festival and Sequoia Dark Sky Festival are among the strongest family-friendly choices.
What is the best California music festival in September 2026?
That depends on your music preference. Monterey Jazz Festival is the standout for jazz, while Ohana Festival offers a major rock and alternative lineup, and Portola Music Festival focuses more on electronic and dance music.
Is California Wine Month in September?
Yes. California Wine Month runs throughout September, with wineries across the state offering special tastings, tours, dinners and harvest-related experiences.
What new attraction opens in California in September 2026?
The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art in Los Angeles opens September 22, 2026. The museum focuses on visual storytelling and is located in Exposition Park.
Final Thoughts
September 2026 is an exceptional month for exploring California. Instead of having one dominant statewide event calendar, the Golden State offers a collection of completely different experiences—from Napa harvest celebrations and Monterey jazz to Southern California beach concerts, family farm festivals, astronomy events and early Halloween attractions.
For a classic California experience, combine California Wine Month with Napa or Sonoma, plan a Monterey weekend around the Jazz Festival, or head south for the Ohana Festival and Southern California beaches.
For families, farms, museums, national parks and harvest festivals offer plenty of alternatives to large concerts.
And for road-trippers, September may be one of the best months of the year to travel through California because the state’s regional event calendar gives you a reason to keep moving.
