California in 2026: Super Bowl, FIFA World Cup, Coachella, and the Biggest Events by Month
by The Conversation
From the Rose Parade and Super Bowl LX to the FIFA World Cup, Coachella, and iconic holiday festivals, California will host world-class events throughout 2026. Here is a complete month-by-month guide to the Golden State’s biggest festivals and experiences.
Why Your 2026 U.S. Trip Should Be to California
California is preparing a year-long lineup of mega-scale festivals and global events set to captivate travelers from around the world in 2026. From world-class sporting competitions to historic parades and cultural festivals, the Golden State will be buzzing every month. Here is a month-by-month guide to the events shaping California’s biggest travel year yet.
The 137th Rose Parade took place spectacularly on January 1st / Visit California
January — Rose Parade and the Start of Route 66’s Centennial Journey
The year opens with the 137th Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena on Jan. 1, themed “Magic in Teamwork.” The parade honored heroes of the Eaton Fire and delivered a moving message of unity. On Jan. 3, the Route 66 Centennial Road Trip, “The Drive Home,” began at Santa Monica Pier, marking 100 years of the iconic highway. Vintage cars traveling the full route will later be showcased at the Detroit Auto Show.
February — Super Bowl LX and a Revamped NBA All-Star Game
On Feb. 8, Super Bowl LX takes place at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, with the Lombardi Trophy on the line. On Feb. 15, the NBA All-Star Game arrives at Intuit Dome in Los Angeles, debuting a new USA vs. World round-robin format that pits American and international stars against each other.
The BNP Paribas Open will be held from March 1st to 15th / Visit California
March — Tennis Showdowns and a Premier Cycling Festival
From March 1–15, the BNP Paribas Open brings the world’s top tennis players to Indian Wells. On March 28–29, the 21st Tour de Murrieta features elite cycling races, including a one-mile sprint Grand Prix and a four-mile circuit race, alongside live music and family-friendly programs.
Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival / Visit California
April — Coachella Shaken by BIGBANG’s Return
April belongs to the Coachella Valley Music & Art Festival, where K-pop group BIGBANG headlines the 2026 lineup alongside global stars such as Justin Bieber and Sabrina Carpenter. Later in the month, the Stagecoach Country Music Festival continues the momentum, while Santa Barbara’s 55th Earth Day Festival (April 25–26) showcases one of the West Coast’s largest green car exhibitions.
BottleRock Festival in Napa Valley / Visit California
May — Rowing Championships and Napa Valley’s Culinary Showcase
From May 29–31, the IRA National Rowing Championships return to Lake Natoma near Sacramento for the first time in six years.Over Memorial Day weekend, BottleRock Napa Valley blends top-tier wine, gourmet cuisine, and live performances, offering a definitive California lifestyle experience.
NASCAR Race / San Diego Tourism Authority
June — Mountain Music and a Historic NASCAR Race
On June 19–20, Trail End Music Festival takes place in Etna, Siskiyou County, spotlighting emerging artists. On June 21, NASCAR makes history with its first-ever race held inside a military base at Naval Base Coronado, celebrating the U.S. Navy’s 250th anniversary.
SoFi Stadium / Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board
July — FIFA World Cup Fever Takes Over California
California becomes a centerpiece of the 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage. Matches will be held on July 1 at Levi’s Stadium in Northern California and on July 2 at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, igniting summer football excitement.
Reggae on the River, a reggae festival, takes place the first weekend of August / Visit California
August — Reggae Rhythms and Ironman Challenges
In early August, Reggae on the River, a legendary festival with a 40-year history, returns to Humboldt County. On Aug. 16, Ironman 70.3 North California debuts in Redding, featuring a swim in Whiskeytown Lake and a challenging cycling course through Shasta County.
Dark Sky Festival / Visalia Tourism Office
September — Starry Skies and Beachside Music
From Sept. 11–13, Central California’s largest Dark Sky Festival takes place at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, with astronomer-led stargazing programs. At Doheny State Beach, the Ohana Festival combines over 35 live performances with environmental discussions.
Capital Airshow / Renzo Córdoba Tourism Office
October — Air Shows and Classic Car Nostalgia
On Oct. 10–11, the California Capital Airshow celebrates its 20th anniversary at Sacramento Mather Airport. On Oct. 2–3, Crescent City hosts the 35th Sea Cruise Outdoor Car Show, featuring more than 250 classic cars cruising through downtown.
November — Harvest Festivals and Coastal Marathons
On Nov. 7, Madera hosts a harvest festival celebrating pomegranates, fruits, and nuts from the fertile Central Valley. On Nov. 8, runners from around the world gather for the Monterey Bay Half Marathon, racing along scenic coastal routes.
December — Victorian Christmas and a Dazzling Finale
Every December weekend, Daly City transforms with the Great Dickens Christmas Fair, recreating 19th-century London. The year concludes with the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade, a 118-year-old tradition that lights up the coastline and closes out California’s landmark year in spectacular fashion.
Reference Written by Son Ko-eun Provided by Travie
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