For over 80 years, the Laguna Beach Festival of Arts has been one of the nation’s oldest and most prestigious juried art shows. The event features select paintings, photography, sculpture, furniture, ceramics, and more from 140 of Orange County’s finest artists. Starting in early July, art enthusiasts can view the works on display, and also take advantage of demonstrations and art workshops, daily art tours, live music, special events, on-site restaurants, and much more.

SPECIAL EVENTS Concerts on the Green: Live music from award- winning jazz musicians on select summer Saturdays. Family Art Day: This event is designed to get kids in touch with their creative side. Art, Jazz, Wine, and Chocolate: A delicious celebration of the finer things in life. Festival Runway Fashion: This year’s theme asks fashion designers to create inspired couture using reclaimed or recycled materials. Sunday in the Park Music Series: A musical series featuring many styles, from ethereal to jazz fusion.

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Dates: July 5 to August 31, 2015 Hours of Operation: Open daily 10am to 11:30pm Lodging: Numerous hotels and Laguna Beach vacation rentals

The Pageant of the Masters is an annual event hosted as part of the Festival of Arts, and is world-renowned for bringing original artwork to life. This year’s theme, “The Pursuit of Happiness,” takes viewers on a sentimental journey through depictions of pastimes and activities that have given people joy through the ages. The stage show features actors posing to look exactly like their counterparts in paintings and illustrations, set to an original score and complete with live narration, sets, and sophisticated lighting.

Held each summer, Laguna Beach’s Sawdust Fair stems from a history of independence. The event was started in 1966 by a group of artists who weren’t accepted into the Festival of Arts exhibition. Over the years, the event has earned its own recognition, with works on display ranging from photography, wearable art, glassworks, and more. The Sawdust Festival also boasts more than a month of classes and other events for visitors to enjoy.

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Dates: June 26 to August 30, 2015 Hours of Operation: Open 10am to 10pm Parking: Metered parking and pay lots are available. The Sawdust Art Festival is also a 5 to 10 minute walk from points in downtown Laguna Beach, including Main Beach, vacation beach rentals, and the other Laguna Beach art festivals.

Many art festivals in Laguna Beach share the work of talented residents; however, Art-A-Fair goes above and beyond in order to feature international artists as well. The show exhibits stunning works from a group of 125 unique artists. All pieces on display are available for purchase, including mixed medium, photographs, paintings, and much more.

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Dates: June 26 to August 30, 2015 Hours of Operation: 10am to 9pm (Sun.-Thurs.), 10am to 10pm (Fri.-Sat.) Tivoli Too!: A gourmet meal in this stunning European courtyard on the grounds of the festival is not to be missed.

Sunset Cove offers oceanfront vacation rentals and extended-stay accommodations in Laguna Beach, complete with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. The Villas at Sunset Cove boast an idyllic atmosphere for kicking back and enjoying all the California Riviera has to offer, from art festivals to sightseeing on the coast. Website: Phone:

Summary In the summer months, Laguna Beach comes alive with a variety of art festivals, showcasing works from local and international artists alike. Events like Art-A-Fair, the Festival of Arts, and the Sawdust Fair are wonderful opportunities to pick up a new piece to display in your home, while enjoying your vacation rental in Southern California on the beach.