Laguna Beach winter art festivals launch November–December 2026
Laguna Beach will host the Sawdust Winter Fantasy festival and related art events from 20 November to 20 December 2026. The programme runs throughout that period and targets travellers seeking cultural and coastal experiences in Southern California.
In this story
At a glance
- What changes
- New winter art festivals added to Laguna Beach calendar
- Timing
- Events run from 20 November to 20 December 2026
- Who is affected
- Visitors planning a holiday in Laguna Beach during the winter months
The details
- Announced by
- Laguna Beach official tourism organisation
- Takes effect
- 20 November to 20 December 2026
- New rule
- The city will hold Sawdust Winter Fantasy on Laguna Canyon Road, plus gallery exhibitions, artisan markets and community activities throughout November and December 2026.
Festival Overview
Sawdust Winter Fantasy transforms the Sawdust Art Festival grounds into a festive marketplace for five weekends between 20 November and 20 December 2026. The event features more than 180 local artists, live demonstrations, food stalls and entertainment each Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 11 am to 7 pm.
Additional cultural programming includes the Laguna Art Museum’s Art + Nature Celebration Week (1–9 November), the Laguna Craft Guild market on 15 November, the First Thursdays Art Walk on 3 December and Hospitality Night on 4 December.
Ticketing and Admission
Adult admission is US$12, seniors (65+) pay US$10, children aged six to twelve pay US$5 and children five or younger enter free. An adult festival pass covering all days costs US$29. Veterans receive complimentary entry when they present valid military identification.
- Tickets are sold online and at the venue on the day of each weekend
- Parking is limited; organisers advise using the free trolley from Lot 16 at 1900 Laguna Canyon Road
Visitor Logistics
Laguna Beach lies about 50 miles south of Los Angeles and 70 miles north of San Diego. The nearest airport is John Wayne Airport, 16 miles away, with additional options at Long Beach, LAX and San Diego International. Ground transport includes private cars, arranged transfers and the city’s free trolley, which runs a non‑summer schedule from 8 September 2026 to 25 June 2027.
Parking at Act V/Lot 16 costs US$5 on operating weekends. Travelers should verify trolley times, parking fees and any schedule changes before departure.
What this means for travellers
Trip planning
- Travelers with bookings during 20 Nov‑20 Dec should confirm festival dates and opening hours before finalising accommodation.
- Visitors planning beach activities should check lifeguard schedules and tide conditions, as swimming conditions may vary.
Cost and documents
- Ticket prices range from US$0 to US$29; veterans need valid military ID for free entry.
- Parking at Lot 16 incurs a US$5 charge on weekend days.
What you need to do
- Buy or reserve festival tickets ahead of the first weekend if attending multiple days.
- Arrange transport to the venue and consider the free trolley to avoid limited parking.
- Check the non‑summer trolley timetable for any service changes before travel.
Who this affects
-
Visitors attending Sawdust Winter Fantasy
The festival runs from 20 Nov to 20 Dec 2026 with specific admission fees and operating hours.
What to do Purchase tickets, bring ID if a veteran, and plan transport to the venue.
-
Veterans planning to attend
Veterans receive complimentary admission when presenting appropriate military identification.
What to do Bring valid military ID to claim free entry.
-
Families with children
Children aged five or younger enter free; ages six to twelve pay a reduced fee.
What to do Ensure children’s ages are known to apply the correct ticket price.
-
International travellers arriving via Los Angeles or San Diego
Laguna Beach is a short drive from major Southern California airports and offers shuttle and trolley options.
What to do Book ground transport and verify trolley schedules for the winter period.
Frequently asked questions
When does Sawdust Winter Fantasy take place in Laguna Beach?
Sawdust Winter Fantasy runs from 20 November to 20 December 2026, operating on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays across five weekends.
How much does an adult ticket cost for the festival?
An adult ticket costs US$12, while a full‑festival adult pass is US$29.
Are there free admission options for any visitors?
Children five years old or younger enter free, and veterans receive complimentary admission with valid military ID.
What transport options are available to reach the festival site?
Visitors can drive, use arranged transfers, or take the city’s free trolley from Lot 16; parking is limited and costs US$5 on weekends.
Do I need to book tickets in advance for Sawdust Winter Fantasy?
Tickets can be purchased online or on the day, but buying ahead is recommended for multiple‑day attendance to guarantee entry.
