Catalina Island is abuzz with events in May.
Cinco de Mayo Celebrations
Catalina Island’s vibrant Spanish heritage sets the stage for an unforgettable Cinco de Mayo celebration. The Catalina Museum for Art & History will host festivities featuring live music, traditional performances by Ballet Folklorico Quetzal, and flavorful Mexican cuisine from local vendors. Maggie’s Blue Rose will join in with festive food and drink specials—including signature margaritas—and will host a performance by Grupo del Baile Tierra Bella. Over on the waterfront, in the late afternoon, the Wrigley Stage will come alive with music and dance. It's also an ideal time to explore Catalina’s popular Margarita Trail.
13th Annual Catalina Arts & Crafts Festival
Now in its 13th year, the Catalina Arts & Crafts Festival returns over Mother’s Day Weekend, running Friday through Sunday. Presented by the Catalina Art Association, this free event showcases the work of local and regional artisans. Visitors are invited to stroll the booths along Avalon's scenic Crescent Avenue and discover unique, handcrafted gifts—just in time for Mother's Day.
‘Round the Island Shipwrecks & Film History Tour of Catalina Island
It's not every day that you can cruise ALL the way around Catalina Island. Embark on an unforgettable journey around Catalina Island, where history and Hollywood intertwine! This unique opportunity, a fundraiser for the Catalina Musuem of Art & History, sets sail on May 14.
Experience the golden age of cinema at the Silent Film Showcase, the Catalina Museum for Art & History's annual celebration of classic film, taking place May 16 and 17. The event kicks off on opening night at the museum’s Ackerman Family Amphitheater with a special 3-D screening of Creature From the Black Lagoon (1954). On Saturday, join the 100th anniversary celebration of The Phantom of the Opera with a memorable screening in the historic Avalon Casino Theatre.
Now in its 22nd year, the Art Deco Society of Los Angeles will present the Avalon Ball on Saturday, May 17, in the historic Catalina Casino Ballroom. This enchanting evening invites guests to don vintage attire and step back in time, dancing to the timeless Big Band sounds of the 1920s and 1930s.
The west end village of Two Harbors will host the first annual Two Harbors Beach Brew & BBQ on May 24. Set against a scenic beachfront backdrop, the event will feature BBQ tastings from a lineup of barbecue experts, including Avalon Smoke House, Harbor Reef Restaurant, and Crazy Gringo BBQ. Guests can also enjoy live music and craft brews from Trusted Gut.
Avalon’s culinary scene takes center stage on May 29 during the annual Taste Around Avalon, a spirited evening where guests stroll through town sampling creative bites and sips from participating restaurants. Offerings span four categories: appetizers and main dishes, sweets and treats, cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages. Guests cast their votes for their favorites, with winners earning not only a prize—but island-wide bragging rights.
2025 marks the 10th anniversary of the Catalina Wine Mixer, a two-day celebration set for May 30–31. Inspired by the cult classic Step Brothers, the event features a special screening of the film, along with a lively beach party, live music, dancing, great food, and—naturally—plenty of wine tastings.
See all upcoming events on Catalina Island.
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