The 54th annual Festival of Whales will begin on Friday, March 7, without its signature parade to kick off festivities this year. Instead, the city will host a three-day carnival at Lantern Bay Park, featuring a Ferris wheel overlooking the Dana Point Harbor, rides, games, a beer garden and more.
“It has been a cherished part of the festival ever since, and we look forward to its return next year,” Kalez said. “In the meantime, the Festival of Whales continues to offer incredible experiences for all ages, with exciting new additions like Dockside Drafts, Modern Makers Mart, Little Folk Club, and, of course, the Festival of Whales Carnival. The celebration carries on, and there’s still so much to enjoy.”
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Looking forward to the 55th annual festival next year, Bryon Ward, President of Burnham-Ward Properties and one of the Dana Point Harbor Partners, said the “Dana Point Harbor Partners is committed to the Festival of Whales Foundation and eagerly anticipates the return of the parade in 2026.”
“With the revitalization, the harbor will be able to welcome even more participants in this cherished community celebration as the premier whale-watching destination,” Ward continued.
“Upon completion, the community can look forward to increased public access, greater parkscapes and improved infrastructure to enhance the festival weekend’s full lineup of events for the next 50 years of celebration.”
