the Absolute best Summer Activities in Santa Ana, CA
Fireworks, music festivals, and family fun are only a few of the reasons why summer is one of our favorite seasons. And with tons of great activities and events to attend, Santa Ana, CA, is a great place to be this time of year!
Santa Ana is a large city with almost daily shows, events, fairs, and all manner of fun summer activities. We’ve put together a list of our favorite upcoming summer activities and events. If you’re looking for some fun this summer, read on!
Summer Activities
Santa Ana Zoo
The Santa Ana Zoo is beautiful all year round, but they have special activities planned just for the summer.
This summer, experience Sunset at the Zoo. This unique activity is held in the evening, 5:30–7:30 p.m., on June 26 and July 26. Watch the lively animals in the cool evening temperatures. All proceeds from this activity will go toward this year’s primate habitat upgrades. Then, on August 20, join the Zoofari 2022 from 5:30 to 11 p.m. The gala will be raising funds for the zoo and include animal experiences, entertainment, cocktails, and live and silent auction bidding.
Located at Prentice Park, the zoo is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Additional attractions at the zoo include the Zoofari Express Train, the Conservation Carousel (featuring endangered animals), and the Fifty Monkeys Ferris Wheel.
Museums
Santa Ana offers several amazing museums, perfect for visiting during the hot summer months:
The Bowers Museum features multiple special exhibits and sponsors events throughout the summer, perfect for the entire family. For example, the Summer Solstice Festival is scheduled for June 19 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. This will be the closing event for the “Crown Jewels of the Walt Disney Archives” exhibition. The event is free and includes face painting, food tasting, music, and special performances.
The Lyon Air Museum will be hosting a “Showcase Your Hot Rod” event on July 16 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Visitors will be able to see the beautiful warbirds as well as the incredible hot rods on display. Spectator tickets are $13 for general admission, $6 for children (children under five are free).
Santa Ana Walking Tour
Santa Ana takes great pride in its heritage and the community. In fact, Downtown Santa Ana is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and several buildings are registered landmarks, with architecture from the first few decades of the 20th century.
Join this walking tour on June 19 at 2 p.m. The walk lasts 2.5 hours, and tickets start at $12 (children 13 and under are free when accompanied by a paying adult). Tickets can be purchased up to an hour in advance of the tour, but no walk-ins are available.
Monthly Night Market
Take advantage of the cooler summer nights by visiting the Gente Night Markets! Vendors include makers, artisans, food vendors, and more. Applications are now open for vendors, or you may choose to volunteer at one of these events.
On the first Saturday of every month, from 4 to 9 p.m., come and enjoy food, drinks, music, and unique brands. VIP tickets sell out quickly but offer passholders extra perks, experiences, and products.
Events
Movies in the Park
Santa Ana will be hosting the annual Movies in the Park this year. The movies are free, and Kettle Corn is provided to the first 500 attendees. Free headsets are available for those who wish to watch the movies in Spanish. Preshow activities include arts and crafts, special appearances, and more.
Movies are held every Wednesday from June 8 through August 31 at select city parks. Gates open at 5:30 p.m., and the movies begin at dusk. Bring your own blankets or chairs. Seating is based on a first-come-first-served basis.
Fourth of July Celebration
Join Santa Ana as the city celebrates its 10th Annual Fourth of July Celebration. This city-sponsored event includes activities, food trucks, vendors, live entertainment, and a fireworks display. Events begin at 5 p.m. and end at 9:30 p.m. at Centennial Regional Park (3000 West Edinger Avenue).
Parking is free and available onsite. Bring your own chair and blanket. Dogs must be on a leash, and no alcohol is allowed. The event is free and the perfect family activity to celebrate the Fourth of July. Arrive early to get the best seats.
2nd Annual Frida Fest
Join downtown Santa Ana for the 2nd Annual Frida Fest. Shop local vendors (including food, handmade goods, and more), enter the look-alike contest, and meet local artisans, all while listening to live entertainment.
Hosted by the Gente Night Market, the event begins at 1 p.m. and ends at 6 p.m. Located at the Heritage Museum (3101 W. Harvard Street), the event is intended for people of all ages.
East End Block Party Music Festival
The popular music festival is back for 2022! This festival highlights Santa Ana’s musicians and artists. Hosted in downtown Santa Ana at the Yost Festival Grounds, this year’s line-up includes NHale, Big Fun, Doughboy Tony, Shock Therapy, Joynoise, and more. With so much talent, East End Block Party is going to be a jam this year.
Tickets are free but do require preregistration to ensure your spot. The event begins at noon and ends at 10 p.m. on June 11.
Santa Ana is a close-knit community full of culture and heritage. Summer is no exception. If you’re looking to relocate to a beautiful city with community events all year long, consider The California Palms Apartments. We offer fabulous amenities in a city you’ll love to call home.
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