April in California feels like the state is fully waking up. Wildflowers begin covering hillsides, festival season takes over the desert, and food and wine events fill the coast. It’s one of the best months to experience California’s variety, from outdoor adventures to cultural celebrations. If you’re planning a spring trip or looking for weekend ideas, here are the best things to do in California in April.
1. The Silver Belt, Sugar Bowl: March 30–April 4
This annual ski competition at Sugar Bowl features elite athletes competing in a rugged freeride course. The main event takes place on April 4, with qualifiers happening in the days leading up to it.
2. Stand Up, Chow Down, Anaheim: April 3–4
This food and comedy festival blends stand-up performances with chef-driven dining experiences across the Anaheim Packing District. Some events include full meals, while others give you access to explore the food hall at your own pace.
3. Native California Pow Wows Begin: April 4
Starting April 4, Native communities across California host pow wows featuring traditional dancing, singing, and drumming. These events are often free and open to the public, making them a great way to experience Indigenous culture. Expect food vendors, craft booths, and meaningful cultural performances.
4. Wildflower & Nature Festival, Oroville: April 4
Held at Riverbend Park, this festival celebrates spring blooms with local vendors, food trucks, and outdoor activities. Visitors can browse handmade goods, enjoy seasonal food, and even join guided kayak tours along the Feather River.
5. American River 50-Mile Endurance Run, Folsom: April 4
This scenic endurance race follows the American River through oak woodlands and historic Gold Rush trails. While the full 50-mile race is the highlight, shorter distances are also available.
6.Glowing Wild, Redding: Begins April 4
This after-dark experience transforms Turtle Bay Exploration Park into a glowing wonderland of illuminated lanterns. The displays are inspired by plants and animals and are paired with live music and food vendors.
7. Poppy Jasper International Film Festival: April 8–15
This film festival highlights independent films from diverse and underrepresented voices. Screenings take place in Morgan Hill and Gilroy, along with Q&As and panel discussions.
8. Pebble Beach Food & Wine: April 9–12
This high-end culinary event brings together top chefs, wineries, and food experts from around the world. Guests can enjoy tastings, seminars, and special dining experiences along the scenic coast. It’s one of California’s most prestigious food festivals.
9. Spring SF Restaurant Week: April 10–19
Restaurants across San Francisco and the Bay Area offer prix fixe menus at discounted prices. It’s a great opportunity to try new spots or revisit favorites without spending as much. Options range from casual brunches to multi-course fine dining.
10. Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival: April 10–19
Coachella brings massive crowds, major artists, and large-scale art installations to the desert. Even if you do not have tickets, the entire area turns into a lively festival scene. Expect parties, pop-ups, and a high-energy atmosphere throughout Indio.
11. Ventura County Farm Day: April 11
This event opens up local farms to the public for tours, tastings, and hands-on experiences. Visitors can learn about agriculture while enjoying fresh produce and family-friendly activities. Some stops include tractor rides and olive oil tastings.
12. Battle of the Brews, Santa Rosa: April 11
Craft beer lovers can sample a wide range of brews from local and international breweries. The event also includes a judged competition and a crowd-voted favorite.
13. Chico BrewFest, Chico: April 11
This festival features more than 40 beers from over 20 breweries, including regional favorites. It also supports local charities, making it both fun and meaningful.
14. Whalefest Monterey: April 11–12
Celebrate marine life with exhibits, live music, and interactive experiences at Fisherman’s Wharf. Visitors can also join boat tours and learn about ocean conservation.
15. Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival: April 11–12 & 18–19
Held in San Francisco’s Japantown, this festival celebrates Japanese culture and spring blooms. Expect performances, food stalls, and cultural exhibits over two weekends. It’s one of the largest cherry blossom festivals in the country.
16. Clovis Big Hat Days & Rodeo: April 11–12
Big Hat Days kicks things off with a street fair full of food, crafts, and live music. Later in the month, the Clovis Rodeo brings classic Western competitions and entertainment. Together, they showcase the town’s strong cowboy heritage.
17. Santa Rosa Symphony’s Celebrate America: April 12
This family-friendly concert features well-known American classics and patriotic songs. Guests can enjoy live music along with sing-along moments.
18. Santa Barbara Kite Festival: April 12
This coastal festival fills the sky with colorful kites of all shapes and sizes. There are contests, games, and activities for both kids and adults. The oceanfront setting makes it so scenic.
19. Kamome Festival, Crescent City: April 13–19
This festival celebrates a unique sister-city relationship with Rikuzentakata, Japan. Events include cultural activities, food experiences, and guided tours. It’s a meaningful blend of history and international connection.
20. Godwit Days Birding Festival, Arcata: April 16–19
Birdwatchers gather to observe migratory species traveling along the Pacific Flyway. The event includes guided tours, workshops, and educational talks.
21. Monterey Sea Otter Classic: April 16–19
This large cycling event attracts athletes from around the world. It features races, recreational rides, and gear demos.
22. Red Bluff Round-Up: April 17–19
One of the largest rodeos in the country, this event features classic competitions and skilled riders. It also includes family-friendly entertainment and themed events. The atmosphere is energetic and deeply rooted in tradition.
23. California Poppy Festival, Lancaster: April 17–19
Celebrate California’s state flower during peak bloom season. The festival includes rides, live music, and food vendors near the famous poppy fields.
24. Kool April Nites, Redding: April 17–26
This event celebrates classic cars with cruises, shows, and themed activities. Visitors can see vintage vehicles and join in family-friendly events.
25. Butter & Egg Days Parade, Petaluma: April 18
This long-running festival highlights Petaluma’s agricultural roots. It features a parade, food vendors, and quirky contests. The atmosphere is playful and community-focused.
26. UC Davis Picnic Day: April 18
One of the largest student-run events in the country, this day includes parades, exhibits, and campus tours. Visitors can explore the university while enjoying unique traditions and activities.
27. Giants Exhibit, San Diego: Begins April 18
This art exhibit showcases works from Alicia Keys and Swizz Beatz’s personal collection. It features pieces from artists around the world along with a curated soundtrack. The experience blends visual art with music and culture.
28. Santa Clarita Cowboy Festival: April 18–19
This event celebrates Western heritage with live music and craft demonstrations. Visitors can browse vendors and learn traditional skills.
29. LA Times Festival of Books: April 18–19
Held at USC, this event brings together authors, readers, and publishers. It features book signings, panels, and live performances. It’s one of the largest literary events in the country.
30. Celebration of the Whales, Oxnard: April 19
This coastal event celebrates migrating whales along the Santa Barbara Channel, a designated Whale Heritage Area. Visitors can enjoy family-friendly activities, chalk art, exhibits, and access to spots like the Channel Islands Maritime Museum and the Gray Whale Migration Trail.
31. Taste of the Peninsula: April 23–May 3
Restaurants across San Mateo County offer special menus highlighting local flavors. The event focuses on both bayside and coastside dining.
32. Stags Leap Vineyard to Vintner, Napa Valley: April 24–26
This event offers exclusive access to Napa Valley wineries and vineyards. Guests can enjoy tastings, tours, and intimate dining experiences.
33. La Jolla Concours d’Elegance: April 24–26
This luxury car show features rare and vintage vehicles displayed along the coast. Visitors can admire classic designs while enjoying ocean views. It is both elegant and scenic.
34. Stagecoach Festival, Indio: April 24–26
This country music festival follows Coachella and brings a different vibe to the desert. Expect big-name artists, themed experiences, and a lively crowd. It’s one of the biggest country music events in the U.S.
35. San Francisco International Film Festival: April 24–May 4
One of the longest-running film festivals in the U.S., this event showcases global cinema. It includes premieres, documentaries, and independent films.
36. Rhododendron Parade, Eureka: April 25
This spring parade celebrates blooming flowers in Humboldt County. Expect decorated floats, bands, and community groups.
37. Levi’s GranFondo, Windsor: April 25
Cyclists can ride through Sonoma County on routes of varying difficulty. The event offers scenic views of vineyards and the countryside. It’s popular with both beginners and experienced riders.
38. California Duck Days, Davis: April 25
This nature-focused event highlights local wildlife and bird species. Visitors can join tours, meet ducklings, and explore exhibits.
39. Panda Fest, San Diego: April 25–26
This traveling food festival features Asian street food from dozens of vendors. Visitors can also enjoy cultural performances and activities.
40. Chico Wildflower Ride & Festival: April 25–26
Cyclists can ride through blooming landscapes in Butte County. Routes are available for all skill levels.
41. Opening Day on the Bay, San Francisco: April 26
Decorated boats sail along the waterfront in this long-standing maritime tradition. The parade includes a fun annual theme and festive atmosphere.
42. Star Wars Experiences Begin at Disneyland: April 29
New characters and themed experiences arrive at Galaxy’s Edge. Visitors can also attend special after-hours Star Wars nights.
43. Taste Alexander Valley, Sonoma County: All Month
Throughout April, wineries in Alexander Valley offer special tastings, discounts, and exclusive experiences. You can meet winemakers, explore vineyards not usually open to the public, and attend special events like wine classes and dinners.
44. Ojai Pixie Tangerine Month, Ojai: All Month
April is peak season for Ojai’s famous pixie tangerines, known for their sweetness and easy-to-peel skin. Local shops, restaurants, and spas celebrate with themed menus, products, and experiences.
