By Carrie Graham and Aliese Muhonen
It’s always a celebration in Santa Ana. No matter what time of year or what you’re into, there’s something fun happening in the heart of Orange County.
Year-Round
Dancing in the Streets
Dance the night away under the stars among art vendors and live music at Plaza Calle Cuatro. Free dance lessons every first Saturday of the month.
Downtown Santa Ana Artwalk
The streets come alive on the first Saturday of every month when nearly two dozen galleries open their doors, local artists and vendors line the sidewalks, and local musicians fill the air with good vibes.
Galería of Imagination Workshops
Express your creative side at these affordable fine art workshops taught by experienced artists. Guests can experiment with a range of mediums, including drawing, watercolor, and acrylic in the Galeria’s community art space at the MainPlace Mall.
Record Fair
Still searching for that mint condition vinyl of ABBA’s greatest hits? Join other music enthusiasts every first Sunday of the month to sift through thousands of records from every genre at 4th Street Market.
Museums and Theaters
Santa Ana is home to several venues rich in local and cultural history, many of which offer shows and activities year-round. Check out the Yost Theater, Bowers Museum, Frida Cinema, Wayward Artist Theater, and Heritage Museum of Orange County (HMOC) for even more fun.
ANNUAL EVENTS
MARCH
Orange County Restaurant Week
Renowned restaurants across the county showcase their unique flavors with deals on special menus and cocktails during this dining event. Whether you’re looking for date night ideas or a meal for the whole family, Orange County Restaurant Week has something for everyone.
Margarita Crawl
Enjoy some of the world’s (and our city’s) most beloved cocktails. Participating locations throughout O.C. offer special food and drink menus, with tasty margs in the starring role.
JULY
Improv Fest
If you’re a fan of shows like Whose Line Is It Anyway?, get your tickets to the OC Improv Fest. Teams of actors battle it out to decide whose imagination reigns supreme.
OCTOBER
Taste of Santa Ana
A celebration of Santa Ana’s sizzling food and beverage scene featuring bites from your local favorites.
NOVEMBER
Viva La Vida Santa Ana
The celebration continues in Santa Ana even after death. Head to 4th Street in downtown on November 4 for a vibrant Día de Los Muertos festival. Visit community-created altars dedicated to gone but not forgotten family members, watch La Catrina’s procession, and enjoy live music at this family-friendly festival to the ancestors.
Noche de Altares
Across from the Civic Center, community members, activists, and local businesses come together for Dia de Los Muertos, setting up altars to honor deceased loved ones,
bring awareness to social issues, and honor Indigenous traditions. There are also cultural performances, music, kid's art, workshops, and face painting.
Blading Cup
Watch the best rollerbladers and skaters of all ages compete on ramps and in the streets of Downtown Santa Ana for multi-wheeled glory at the Blading Cup.
DECEMBER
Tamalfest
Corn husks vs. banana leaves. Red sauce vs. green. No matter what side you’re on in the tamale world, everyone wins at this beloved holiday event. Come ready to consume your weight in delicious tamales from local restaurants along 4th Street.
Santa Ana’s event calendar is a year-round celebration of culture, art, food, and community. There’s always something to experience in this vibrant city. Mark your calendar, join the festivities, and immerse yourself in the heart of Orange County’s cultural scene.