As the calendar ushers in the fall and the island’s slower season, Halloween on Catalina Island ushers in a November with an array of things to do, ranging from athletic to multi-cultural.
The centerpiece of Halloween on Catalina Island is a decorated golf cart parade along with a parade of costumed children, who showcase their costumes along Crescent Avenue before dispersing to Trick or Treat at Avalon businesses. Adult revelers will find plenty of entertainment in Avalon’s many bars, which will welcome Halloween celebrants both in costume and not.
Celebrate Dia de los Muertos Catalina Island style
The Catalina Island Museum for Art & History, which has become one of the top attractions on Catalina Island, will host Dia de los Muertos on November 1. This family-friendly festival will feature live music, face painting, tequila tasting, pazole, a dance performance and an art contest. It all kicks off at 6 p.m. and is $15 for museum members, $20 for non-members and $5 for children, who must be accompanied by an adult.
As part of the First Friday Film series, the Museum will be screening Edward Scissorhands in the outdoor Ackerman Family Amphitheater. The film will begin at 6:45 pm, and beer, wine and movie snacks will be available for purchase. Tickets are $12. Bring a blanket, as it gets chilly under the night sky.
Catalina Island races and runs challenge endurance athletes
This year, the race season kicks off in October, with one of the biggest events taking place Oct. 30. The Catalina Island Triathlon & Duathlon attracts hundreds of elite athletes who plunge into Avalon’s waters, run its hills and cycle on the rugged terrain surrounding the city. Competitors can take on the triathlon course, a swim, bike, run race or take on a duathlon with a run, bike, run course. Race day will also feature a 5K run/walk.
November features the Catalina Island Half Marathon & 10K on Nov. 13. Consisting of either 13.1 miles through the island’s East End trails or a 10K on the streets and roads around Avalon, the day’s races all start and end near the waterfront. Kicking off a little later, a kids run has become a popular component.
Athletes can look forward to the Annual Avalon Benefit 50K/50 Mile Run in January and the Otillo Swimrun Catalina in March 2022.
Catalina Island honors its veterans
Catalina Island’s U.S. martial history dates back to the Civil War, when a contingent of Union soldiers arrived in Two Harbors and built barracks that now serve as the clubhouse for the Isthmus Yacht Club. Since World War I, Catalina Island residents have left their island paradise to serve their country in wartime. On Veterans Day, Nov. 11, Catalina Island’s VFW Post will honor their sacrifice and courage, along with that of all veterans, at the Avalon Veterans Memorial.
Purchase Art to Support Catalina Conservation
The Catalina Island Conservancy's 11th Annual Wild Side Art Show celebrates the longstanding tradition of plein air painting on Catalina Island. The event takes places on November 7, in person on the mainland at the Newport Harbor Yacht Club and online. Proceeds from the art show support the Catalina Conservancy's conservation, education and recreation programs, including a permanent collection of plein art that document the Conservancy's conservation efforts and progress in habitat restoration.
Catalina Island offers a tempting alternative for the holidays
There’s always something to be grateful for on Catalina Island and this year is no exception. Whether you celebrate with extended family or just yourself, the island is an intriguing destination for Thanksgiving. Several restaurants will offer Thanksgiving dinner, providing you and yours an option for the traditional repast without the worry of who must do the dishes.
Spending Thanksgiving at Catalina Island west end is a treat. Enjoy a traditional "Island Style" Thanksgiving dinner at Harbor Reef Restaurant.
Best of Winter boat and hotel packages
Realize savings when you book your Catalina Express boat and hotel together with the Catalina Island Best of Winter Packages, available November through March. Participation varies by hotel property.
Mark your calendars
Celebrate the holiday season with a peek inside the Wrigley's Mansion at Mt Ada's Holiday Open House on December 1. Enjoy community fellowship, holiday decor, treats and beverages and raise funds to support local nonprofits, including Avalon Schools.
Get your holiday shopping going at the 28th Annual "Shop Catalina" extravaganza scheduled from 12-8 pm on Saturday, December 4. It's the one day to pick up your Catalina Island savings card which is valid through the remainder of the month. Enjoy a full day of holiday fun including a visit from Santa, holiday carolers and Avalon's Annual Christmas Tree Lighting.
And of course, you don't want to miss our annual New Year's Eve Gala at the historic Catalina Island Casino! Reserve your spot today.
