Fall ‘What’s Happening” on Catalina Island

• Akuario Immersed Experience: Catalina Island's newest activity, "IMMERSED: Ocean Wonders," officially opened its dome theater doors on September 1st and has been receiving glowing reviews. This air-conditioned, seated, 30-minute, projected immersive experience is conveniently located in the island tour bus plaza, adjacent to the mini golf course. Audiences take a journey across the world's oceans with our camera crew, exploring Catalina's lush kelp forests and Hawaiian lava tubes; meeting majestic whale sharks, soaring manta rays, inquisitive bull sharks, playful sea lions and mesmerizing bait balls; all set to contemporary music. Open every day from 12-7:30 pm, with shows running on the hour and half-hour for maximum flexibility. Closed on Thursdays. Tickets to this entertaining, family-friendly experience cost $24.95 for children (under 12) and seniors, and $29.95 for adults.  https://book.singenuity.com/247/activity/details/2007/n/start
   
• Return of JazzTrax: For over three decades, JazzTrax has been hosting contemporary smooth jazz performances annually in Avalon Ballroom since 1987. This October, the 36th edition offers a special Thursday Evening's Unplugged Show under the stars at Descanso Beach, followed by indoor performances in the historic 1929 Avalon Ballroom over the weekend. This year's festival promises an extraordinary lineup featuring famed saxophonists like Boney James and Gerald Alright, along with vocals from the talents of Mindi Abair and Sérgio Mendes. Mindi Abair will perform a private concert at the M Restaurant with an afternoon of wine and jazz on Saturday, October 12, from 2:30 pm to 4:30 pm. Alongside renowned artists, the JaxxTrax festival continues to introduce talented up-and-coming musicians you likely haven’t heard before, such as JazzTrax 2022 Debut Artist of the Year Rebecca Jade. Enjoy breathtaking ocean views from this unique venue on the top floor of the Wrigley Casino, making every note of the music even more enchanting. After the shows, unwind at The Marlin Club and The Locker Room, where you can keep the jazz vibes alive long into the night. Purchase your tickets at www.JazzTrax.com or by calling 866-Trax Tix (866-872-9849) and get ready to experience the 36th JazzTrax festival. 
   
• Oktoberfest: Prepare yourself for an unforgettable Oktoberfest weekend taking place from Friday, September 29th, to Sunday, October 1st, 2023! No need to take an international flight to Germany—Flx Biergarten, the centerpiece of the Catalina Ale Trail, will be buzzing with excitement, offering a delightful mix of live music, delectable German cuisine, and friendly competitions. Your journey begins at Flx Biergarten, where you can acquire a 22 oz. souvenir Beer Stein, an Ale Trail Passport, and your first pint of beer—all for $20. From there, venture along the Ale Trail, gathering stamps at over 15 local venues while enjoying generous refill prices for your 22 oz. mug. The festivities kick off on Friday with thrilling Steinholding competitions at Antonio’s, followed by live music at Flx Biergarten. On Saturday, test your strength once more in the Steinholding competition and dance the night away with live performances by the Bavarian Beer Garden Band and Poor Boy Yacht Club. The weekend culminates on Sunday with a German Food and Beverage Extravaganza at Antonio’s, followed by more lively music at Flx Biergarten. This Oktoberfest promises an enticing blend of flavors, melodies and camaraderie. Remember to secure your Catalina Ale Trail Passport and Beer Stein at Flx Biergarten, and please note that all events are exclusively for those aged 21 and above. Website: https://www.visitcatalinaisland.com/things-to-do/events/oktoberfest/
   
• First Fridays at the Museum, Oktoberfest: The Catalina Museum for Art & History invites you to immerse yourself in Bavarian culture at First Fridays at the Museum: Oktoberfest! Join us on Friday, October 6, from 6 to 9 pm for this family-friendly event with live music by The Hammerstein Band, featuring traditional singing of the Schnitzelbank in both German and Catalina Island versions. Guests can enjoy brats with all the fixings, giveaways and an Oktoberfest-themed art project for kids! German beer will be available for adults, and attendees are encouraged to dress in lederhosen and dirndls with the option to B.Y.O.S. (Bring Your Own Stein) for a chance to enter a raffle! Since 2017, the Catalina Museum has been the go-to place in Avalon for Oktoberfest celebrations. Your ticket includes bratwurst with toppings and a side dish. Additional German and domestic beer, wine and refreshments will be available for purchase. Don't miss this festive evening that brings a taste of Oktoberfest to Avalon's cultural scene. Tickets are available online at $20 for members, $25 for not-yet-members and $10 for children (ages 3-15).  https://www.lovecatalina.com/event/first-fridays-at-the-museum%3A-oktoberfest/1427/ 
   
• Avelo Dive System: From October 5^th to 14^th, the Avelo team will be on Catalina Island, offering the exclusive opportunity to explore the freedom of diving at one of North America's top dive and snorkel destinations, Catalina Island. Home to over 800 mesmerizing marine species, the island will host the Avelo Dive System, which is the only dive center in the continental United States offering this distinctive certification. This unique experience includes gear nearly half the weight of standard scuba gear, a streamlined system allowing for enhanced maneuverability underwater, full focus on the marine wonders, longer air consumption and a level of safety beyond that of traditional scuba equipment. Join us and experience the future of diving on Catalina Island, no matter your skill level, and let us be your trusted guide as you venture beneath the surface. To kickstart your underwater adventure, simply give us a call at 310-510-0330 or visit our website to book your spot. https://www.catalinadiverssupply.com/
   
• Discover Scientific Diving Program with Scuba By Design: Want to try scuba diving for free on your special day at some of the best shores California has to offer.? Celebrate your birthday underwater at Catalina Island with a unique diving experience with Scuba by Design. Available from now, to December 31, 2024, bring friends and enjoy a half or full day of diving on us. Try power scuba, see the magical kelp forest, take a night dive, and learn about ocean science and conservation with Discover Scientific Diving. Beginners and adaptive divers are welcome! Avalon is an ideal base for shore diving at Casino Point Dive Park, one of the top destinations in the country that offers excellent visibility in a biodiverse marine environment. Your experience is inclusive and tailored to your unique needs, promoting wellness and upholding a commitment to diversity, equality and inclusion for a joyful experience for all. Looking to obtain your Open Water Certification? Get a discount when you bring 2 friends. Reservations required for all experiences. Dive free on your birthday requires a minimum of two participants. Let's Celebrate–give us a call and we'll design a day of diving just for you! 310.510.6363, https://www.lovecatalina.com/coupon/dive-free-on-your-birthday!/1085/
   
• 70th Anniversary at the Museum: Catalina Museum for Art & History is celebrating its 70th anniversary! Established in 1953, the museum is taking a fascinating journey back through seven decades of collecting and preserving Catalina Island's rich cultural heritage. In honor of 70 amazing years in Avalon, now featured is the "Cabinet of Curiosities: 70 Objects for 70 Years" exhibition, unveiling a hidden vault filled with rare objects, many of which have never before been publicly exhibited. These treasures from the permanent collection share incredible stories of human endurance, remarkable ingenuity and artistic excellence. Starting October 7, 2023, until May 19, 2024, the museum will also host "Time Changes All Odds: Photography and Catalina," an exploration of how photography has contributed to the island's identity since the 1800s. This exhibition showcases images capturing the island's natural beauty, snapshots of leisure activities, architectural documentation, historical records, infrastructure details and glimpses into the daily lives of its residents. It's an opportunity to witness how much has evolved while also recognizing what has remained constant. The museum's 70th-anniversary celebrations invite everyone to experience Catalina’s rich history through arts & culture. https://www.catalinamuseum.org/
   
• COMING SOON! El Rancho Escondido Tours and Horse Shows: Venture into Catalina’s picturesque interior to view the beautiful, recently renovated “hidden ranch” known as “El Rancho Escondido.” Experience the Arabian Horse Ranch built by Philip Wrigley in 1930, which today serves as a home for the family’s horses and is used to grow grapes for Rusack Vineyards. Visitors will enjoy a horse demonstration, view a selection of ribbons, trophies and Western memorabilia, and see “The Bishop’s Chapel” with its awe-inspiring views. Learn the history of ‘JORY’s Bell,’ the Baptismal Font and the original stained-glass windows of the chapel. Before returning to Avalon, enjoy a casual al fresco lunch at Catalina’s famous, mountain-top Airport-in-the-Sky. Explore El Rancho Escondido (visitcatalinaisland.com)
   
• Lobster Season: Get ready for a delectable treat as Catalina Island ushers in the lobster season, opening this culinary season on October 1st and continuing the lobster extravaganza until early spring. Indulge in the island's oceanic treasures as renowned restaurants like Steve's Steakhouse, The Lobster Trap, Maggie's Blue Rose, and Seaport Bistro feature succulent lobster dishes on their menus. Catalina Island's pristine waters are known for producing some of the world's finest lobsters, renowned for their exceptional flavor and tenderness. From buttery lobster tails to rich lobster bisque, Catalina Island is the place to savor the highest-quality lobster delights. Mark your calendars and prepare your taste buds, because lobster season is just around the corner, and the island is gearing up to serve you a mouthwatering lobster feast that's bound to leave you craving for more. Bon appétit! https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurants-g102873-zfd10915-Catalina_Island_California-Lobster.html
   
• The Catalina Island Chili Cookoff Come sample some of the best world class chili the Island & beyond has to offer! Presented by the Rotary Club of Avalon, The Catalina Island Chili Cook-Off will take place on Saturday, October 7^th from 1pm – 4pm at South Beach. Participants and attendees will enjoy an event filled with beer and wine, live music, lots of legos and of course chili as the star of the show! Everyone is welcome to enter and all chili will be judged under the Judges Best Chili and People’s Choice Chili categories for a chance to win up to $3,000 in total prize money. Entry fee is $50.00 per Contestant per Chili. Chili participants must provide at least 3 Gallons and deliver to the Cook-Off on October 7th by 11am. Chili must be prepared prior to event. Chafing dishes are provided to keep Chili warm throughout the event. Judgin (and eating!) starts at noon! To enter as a contestant or to purchase your ticket to attend, visit: https://assets.simpleviewinc.com/simpleview/image/upload/v1/clients/catalinaislandccvb/Registration_form_2023_1__575a8e30-79c2-4ed7-8bde-7daf0b11811d.pdf
   
• Buccaneer Days at Two Harbors The 33rd Annual Two Harbors Buccaneer Days is a must-attend event set to take place on October 6th and 7th at the picturesque location of Two Harbors on Catalina Island. This lively celebration offers two days of non-stop entertainment, featuring live music, a treasure hunt and a costume contest! Buccaneer Days is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of pirates and delight in the flavors of fantastic gruel and grog (pirate for food and drink) while relishing the atmosphere of this legendary event. The festivities kick off with a DJ on Friday, October 6th, followed by live performances by bands Humble Hooligans and the Kelly Boyz. Saturday, October 7th, promises more party beats, a thrilling treasure hunt and a costume contest accompanied by the high-energy band Flash Pants—all wrapped up with DJ beats by Splyce until the early hours. This Buccaneer Days event is exclusively for those aged 21 and older, offering a truly unique experience on Catalina Island's west end. It's a fantastic opportunity to embrace your inner pirate, hunt for treasure, savor delicious pirate-themed cuisine and enjoy live music in a South Pacific-inspired setting. Don't miss out on this thrilling beginning to the fall season on Catalina Island and prepare to set sail for Two Harbors aboard The Catalina Express or the Cyclone power boat or make your way from Newport Beach with the Catalina Flyer. It's an adventure you won't want to miss! View the event schedule and FAQs on the Buccaneer Days website. For more information call (310) 510-4205 https://www.eventbrite.com/e/33rd-annual-two-harbors-buccaneer-days-tickets-647152288917
   
• Fall Carnival: Have you ever seen a pumpkin patch on the beach? Experience a unique coastal tradition at Avalon's Fall Carnival! Join us in supporting Avalon Schools and local non-profits while enjoying carnival games, delectable food, live music and a charming pumpkin patch right on the beach. It's a delightful event that promises memorable moments for families and a one-of-a-kind beachside pumpkin patch you won't want to miss. https://www.lovecatalina.com/event/avalon-fall-carnival/1421/ 
   
• Halloween Kids Costume Parade/Zombie Party: Get ready for a spooktacular Halloween in Avalon, a beloved tradition for both residents and visitors. The festivities kick off with the annual Halloween Parade down Crescent Avenue, where ghouls, ghosts, mermaids, firefighters and more join in the fun. The parade line-up starts at Knabe Park at 4:30 pm, and it's an excellent opportunity for participants to showcase their favorite costumes. Following the parade, "zombies" will begin a spine-chilling crawl through Avalon, celebrating the "night of the living dead." Boaters are also encouraged to join the eerie walk, donning their most horrific zombie attire (makeup assistance available at the mole). Ghoul-tastic activities at Zombie Park, also known as Avalon Kid's Park, start at 5:30 pm and include a superhero jump house, haunted playground, camp, and more. Plus, the flat streets of Avalon are perfect for trick-or-treating, making this Halloween celebration a must-attend event for all ages.https://www.lovecatalina.com/event/annual-halloween-parade-%26-zombie-party/1410/ 
   
• Dia de los Muertos at the Museum: Join us for the 5th Annual Dia de los Muertos Family Festival, a vibrant celebration of the colorful Mexican tradition that honors both life and death. This event is part of our First Fridays at the Museum Program, but will take place on Wednesday, November 1st, from 6-9 pm. Located at 217 Metropole Avenue, Avalon, CA 90704, this free community event promises an evening filled with cultural richness. Families can engage in an art project for the kids, while adults can savor a tequila tasting. Local food vendors will satisfy your taste buds, and live music, including a performance by Ballet Folklorico Quetzal, will set the tone. One highlight is the Ofrenda/Altar and Art Contest, inviting community members to create ofrendas for a chance to win a cash prize, and creative artists can submit their Dia de los Muertos artwork for a similar opportunity. Additionally, don't miss the chance to win the 2023 Barbie and Ken Signature Edition Dia de los Muertos Dolls in the raffle. While this event is free, we kindly request registration for proper accommodation. For more information or to register, contact Kellie Costello at 310-510-4650 or kcostello@catalinamuseum.org

The Catalina Museum for Art & History is known for offering exceptional art and history exhibitions, music, dance performances, guest speaker lectures, and outstanding film screenings, making this celebration a must-attend cultural experience.https://www.lovecatalina.com/event/d%c3%ada-de-los-muertos-family-festival/155/ Register here: https://crm.nonprofiteasy.com/8351/Pages/Events/#/Details/10381// 

• Catalina Island Marathon: Join us on November 11, 2023, for the Catalina Island Marathon, featuring a range of thrilling races for running enthusiasts, including the half marathon, 10K and the prestigious Catalina Island TRIPLE CROWN Challenge. Kids are welcome too! The half marathon offers a challenging trail winding through the East End, with iconic landmarks like the Wrigley Mansion, Renton Mine Road and the island's rugged backside. Enjoy vistas of the Catalina Island Conservancy Nature Preserve and run in the territory of free-ranging bison! The 10K, a shorter yet equally exhilarating race, starts in the heart of Avalon, with city streets, hills and scenic trails. Pass by the famous Casino, the Wrigley's house, the Wrigley Memorial and Gardens and horse trails before reaching downtown Avalon. For those up for the ultimate challenge, the Catalina Island TRIPLE CROWN Challenge awaits! Complete all three Run Catalina events within 12 months—the Avalon 50K or 50 Mile, Catalina Island Marathon and Catalina Island Half Marathon—and unlock exciting SWAG including an exclusive Triple Crown FINISHER jacket, Hi-Tec shoes and a unique belt buckle. Plus, enjoy a registration discount for each race! In line with the Catalina Island Conservancy's environmental commitment, we are proud to offer Sustainable Finisher Medals to each participant when you purchase reusable soft cups or bring your own hydration systems! Join the Catalina Island Marathon for an unforgettable running adventure in this unique island paradise. Visit our website for more information: https://www.lovecatalina.com/event/catalina-island-half-marathon-%26-10k/1429/ Register here: https://www.catalinaislandhalfmarathon.com/Race/Register/?raceId=73814 
   
• Last Catalina Island Triathlon: Get ready to dive into a thrilling athletic adventure on Catalina Island! The Last Catalina Triathlon, Duathlon and 5K event is set for Saturday, October 28, 2023, offering participants a chance to experience the stunning beauty of Catalina Island and the charming City of Avalon. This event has something for everyone and is open to novices and seasoned triathletes looking for a fun challenge. The traditional "end of the year" Sprint Triathlon presents a picturesque course that includes a half-mile swim in the tranquil waters of Avalon Bay, three scenic loops around Mt. Ada passing by the iconic Wrigley Mansion and a challenging 5K run featuring the breathtaking sights of Hogs Back and Chimes Tower before finishing in the heart of downtown Avalon. If you prefer to share the experience, two-to-three-person relay teams are available for the triathlon. Looking to skip the swim? The Duathlon allows you to take on the Mt. Ada course without the aquatic portion. Teams are also welcome! A 5K run/walk option is available for participants wanting to enjoy the event without the full triathlon or duathlon experience. The Last Catalina Triathlon welcomes participants of various athletic backgrounds and levels, making it an inclusive and diverse gathering. It's an opportunity to engage in a day of sports and explore the charming Catalina Island surroundings. For more information, please visit our website: https://www.lovecatalina.com/event/catalina-island-triathlon-duathlon-%26-5k/1428/ Sign up here: https://shorturl.at/dilF9 
   
• The Inaugural Visit of Disney Magic Disney Magic will be making its inaugural visit to Catalina Island on October 23, 2023, with ongoing visits throughout the cruise season. Just in time for their 25th Anniversary, Disney Cruise Line has sprinkled some pixie dust on the Disney Magic and refurbished their original ship into what is now the star of the Disney fleet. Calling on inspiration from Disney’s “Encanto,” “Soul,” and “Moana” animated films, the Disney Magic has been reimagined into the ship of every Disney lover’s dreams. Just as before when Catalina Island previously welcomed Disney Wonder to the Avalon Port, Disney Cruise Line will be presenting Love Catalina with an honorary plaque signifying the significance of the ship to the port in a Plaque Exchange Ceremony. To book your own magical experience at sea, visit https://disneycruise.disney.go.com/ships/magic/.
   
• Bats in the Belfry Murder Mystery Dinner Step into the glamorous 1920s at the Bats in the Belfry Murder Mystery Dinner on Saturday, October 7 at the Catalina Country Club! Support the Chimes Tour Foundation in the next phase of restoration - the chimes themselves! Attendees will enjoy a 3-course meal, auctions, and immersive 'Lethal Libations' murder mystery. Dress yourself up in fun ‘20s attire and become an integral part of the unfolding drama. If you already have dinner plans for the evening, purchase tickets for the Bootlegger’s Bash after hours dance party, starting at 9:45pm, which includes dancing in the courtyard to the sounds of a DJ, a no host bar (proceeds to benefit Chimes Tower Foundation), finger foods and roundtrip shuttle service from the Tour Plaza to the beautiful Catalina Country Club. Purchase Mystery Dinner and Bootlegger’s Bash event tickets at https://my.onecause.com/event/organizations/sf-0013c00001sY5anAAC/events/vevt:87a28398-ebaf-4f01-94c0-59197fe8ce1c/home/story
   
• Second Summer Lodging Offers It may be fall on the mainland, but we are extending your summer on Catalina Island with our Second Summer specials! Book two nights of lodging at participating stays and get the third night free! Stay with us now until November 2, 2023, on Sunday through Thursday nights, and make the most of the sunny island days that continue well into November! This offer is valid for select luxury properties, private homes and budget-friendly accommodations like our famous Aurora Hotel, Catalina Canyon Inn, MVI Vacation Rentals and more. https://www.lovecatalina.com/second-summer-packages/ 
   
• Reduced Mooring Rates in Harbor Escape to Catalina Island and enjoy reduced mooring rates in Avalon Harbor & Catalina Two Harbors! From now through October 14, purchase 4 consecutive nights in Avalon Harbor and get the next 3 nights free! Then, starting October 15 through Palm Sunday, pay for any 2 nights in advance in Avalon Harbor and receive 5 consecutive nights free! Located on the southeast end of the island, the Avalon Harbor offers access to historic seaside destinations that have attracted film stars, dignitaries and presidents throughout the years! Enjoy access to numerous hotels, restaurants, beaches, spa experiences, land & ocean adventures, a golf course and a host of recreational activities. https://www.cityofavalon.com/1345/About-Avalon-Harbor 

Want to stay longer at Catalina Two Harbors and save? Now through October 31, purchase 6 nights and get the 7th night for free! Then, starting November 1 to March 31, get 5 nights free when you purchase 2! Located at Catalina Island’s west end, over 700 mooring sites are available around Two Harbors in secluded coves, landings, beaches and harbors, including Isthmus Cove, Fourth of July Cove, Cherry Cove, Emerald Bay, Howland’s Landing, Little Geiger, White’s Landing, Moonstone, Hen Rock, Buttonshell, Catalina Harbor and Wells Beach. https://www.visitcatalinaisland.com/things-to-do/two-harbors/boating/mooring-info-and-rules/