Tourism Authority announces fall festivities and events including Halloween parade, Catalina Film Festival, Buccaneer’s Weekend and more
AVALON, CALIF. (September 2022) – Love Catalina, the official Catalina Island Tourism Authority, is excited to announce upcoming events for visitors to enjoy this fall on Catalina Island. From a festive Halloween parade and an array of fall themed events to film festivals and live music, there is something for the whole family to experience this season.
EVENTS:
Catalina Film Festival – September 21-25
The 12th annual Catalina Film Festival returns this fall. Featuring almost 200 films, nightly events and entertainment, the Catalina Film Institute hosts what filmmakers have voted one of the top 50 film festivals in the world for over 10 years in a row. In celebration of education and imagination, the Catalina Film Institute is sure to surprise and delight guests with the perfect backdrop for unparalleled premieres, yacht and mansion parties, industry networking and more. Films are screened at multiple venues around the island, including the iconic, art deco, 1,200-seat Avalon Theatre — the world’s first sound theatre. Catalina Film Festival is a competitive festival with awards in up to 11 film categories, along with prestigious industry honors. Festival passes start at $90. For more information and to purchase tickets, click here.
Buccaneer’s Weekend – October 6-8
Don your pirate attire and enjoy fantastic food and live entertainment for the 32nd annual Buccaneer’s Weekend at Two Harbors. The legendary three-day pirate party includes a costume contest, treasure hunts around the island, DJ sets and featured musical acts from Kelly Boyz, Splyce and Humble Hooligans, and more. Click here for more information and to purchase tickets.
Catalina Island JazzTrax Festival – October 13-16, October 20-23
The longest running Smooth Jazz festival in the world is coming to the Descanso Beach Club for back-to-back weekends this October. Each weekend opens with Thursdays Unplugged Under the Stars then continues Friday through Sunday inside the historic Casino Ballroom. Highlights for this year’s lineup include Damien Escobar, Dave Koz and Mindi Adair. For more information including the full list of performers and to purchase tickets, click here.
Bats in the Belfry – October 29
For the second year in a row, Bats in the Belfry is back at the historic Avalon Theatre benefiting the Catalina Chimes Tower Foundation. The festivities kick off with a Cocktail Party at 6:30 p.m., followed by a magic performance from Jonathan Levit at 7:30 p.m. and ending with a screening of “Sleepy Hollow” at 9 p.m. In addition, visitors looking for a little extra thrill can walk through the “Tower of Terror” Haunted House in the Casino as part of the event. To purchase tickets and for more information, click here.
Halloween Walking and Golf Cart Parade – October 31
Celebrate spooky season at the free annual Halloween Walking Parade down Crescent Avenue with contests for best child, adult and family themed costumes. Judging will take place at 3:30 p.m. at via Casino with the parade to follow at 4 p.m. After the parade, enjoy Trick-or-Treating along the streets of Avalon. Click here for more information.
Sun Country Micro Brew Festival in Two Harbors – November 5
Celebrate the 20th Annual Micro Brew Fest on the beach in Two Harbors from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Sample a selection of microbrews from around the world while listening to live music on the beach. The event includes unlimited tastings of all participating breweries, complimentary appetizers throughout the event, and a keepsake beer glass. In addition, a silent auction will be put on by the Avalon Lions Club, along with games and photobooths. A portion of proceeds from this event will benefit students of Avalon High School through the Sophie Tarbuck Scholarship Fund. Tickets on sale now here. Please note: This is a 21 and over event. Must be 21 years of age or older to attend.
New Years Eve Gala – December 31
The 49th annual New Year’s Eve Gala celebration will return this year in the world-famous Casino Ballroom. Guests will enjoy a gourmet buffet, live music from The Perfect Event’s Christien Anthony Band, a champagne toast and more. Reservations are priced at $199 per person and are now available for purchase here.
BUSINESS UPDATES:
El Rancho Escondido Trophy Room Reopening
Tucked away 12 miles outside Avalon, the hidden El Rancho Escondido has announced the reopening of the Trophy Room Museum. Guests are encouraged to visit and experience the history of the equestrian facility to learn about the champion horses that once roamed the property, historical rodeos, the old-fashion saddles and iron works, and even a restored short film that gives a glimpse into the past of the ranch. For more information click here.
Catalina Adventure Sailing
Love Catalina’s newest member Catalina Adventure Sailing is the only sailing charter based out of Avalon Harbor. Experience the tranquility and peacefulness of having the engine off and the sails up to attract wildlife and dolphins for miles. The expert captain and staff know the local waters and make guests feel welcome and comfortable while aboard for a tailored cruise. The brand new vessel, the 2022 Catalina 385 38’ sailboat, provides unforgettable memories for families, couples and groups. For more information and to book a charter, click here.
For more information about Catalina Island, please visit www.lovecatalina.com.
About Love Catalina Island:
Love Catalina Island Tourism Authority is the Island’s official source of visitor information. Originally founded in 1949, the nonprofit is comprised of approximately 230 member organizations, working closely with city officials, local businesses and the community at large to attract visitors and support the local economy. Love Catalina Island is governed by an elected board of directors and is funded in part through the collection of Transient Occupancy Taxes. For more information, please visit www.lovecatalina.com. Travelers can also join the conversation on Facebook (www.facebook.com/lovecatalinaisland) Instagram (@LoveCatalinaIsland) and Twitter (@LoveCatalina_).
