Annual Events

Morro Bay has a roster of signature annual festivals, athletic events, and recurring pop up markets that showcase its unique coastal heritage and community creativity.

If you’re planning a getaway and want to catch something special while you're here, these annual events offer a great way to experience the personality and charm of Morro Bay.

January

Morro Bay Bird Festival

Each January, birders gather in Morro Bay to spot more than 200 species during one of the top bird festivals in the country. This long-running event includes guided tours, educational workshops, and plenty of chances to connect with fellow nature lovers.

March - April - May

Citywide Yard Sale

For a weekend in March, Morro Bay becomes a treasure hunter’s dream. Over 150 yard sales pop up across town, from cozy front yards to sprawling estate sales. Locals and visitors roam the streets in search of vintage finds, quirky gifts, and one-of-a-kind bargains.

Morro Bay Kite Festival

Bright kites fill the sky on an April weekend and families fill the beach during this high-flying coastal tradition. The festival features free kites for kids, a candy drop, and a Friday night kickoff with food, s’mores, and light-up kite flights. It’s colorful, creative, and the best part - it’s completely free.

Cruisin’ Morro Bay Car Show

At the end of April, start of May, engines rev, chrome gleams, and the streets of Morro Bay transform into a rolling tribute to classic cars. This three-day celebration draws car lovers from across California for live music, local food, and more than 500 eye-catching vehicles parked throughout town. It’s part show, part social hour, and all-around nostalgic.

September - October

Avocado & Margarita Festival

Celebrate Morro Bay’s Avocado and Margarita Street Festival on Morro Bay’s Embarcadero in late September. Join a fantastic day of food, drink, live music, art & crafts, specialty vendors, and fun in beautiful Morro Bay on the waterfront!

Witches Paddle

Costumed paddlers take to the water in late October. It’s a tradition to watch the witches and wizards crossing the bay by kayak or paddleboard in a scene you have to see to believe.

Morro Bay Maritime Festival

The Maritime Festival offers an October Sunday afternoon of waterfront experiences for all ages, focused on the maritime history and community.

December

Lighted Boat Parade

Celebrate the season with a yuletide boat parade and holiday trees glowing around town. Take an evening walk or drive to see them all.

Year Round & Recurring Events

Morro Bay Main Street Farmers Markets

Every Saturday afternoon, enjoy the downtown streets of Main and Morro Bay Boulevard for fresh local produce, craft goods, treats, and music.

Waterfront Market

Each summer season, from about May through October, shop a lively pop up marketplace on the Embarcadero, behind one of Morro Bay's most popular fish markets

Art in the Park

One of Morro Bay's longest running events shows up for three days each Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day weekends.

October 24

Witches & Warlocks Paddle

A festive, spooky display of costumed paddlers and kayakers! Watch the fun from The Embarcadero and support local restaurants and shops. Make it a weekend getaway and book your stay early.

  • This is a non-sanctioned, meetup-style event. It is not a fundraiser.
  • It is not organized or sponsored by the City of Morro Bay, the Morro Bay Harbor Department, or Visit Morro Bay.
  • Participants should prioritize water safety by reviewing all local rules before heading out.
  • Life jackets (PFDs) are required for all paddlers. Citations can occur for non-compliance.
  • Operating any water vessel while intoxicated is strictly prohibited.
  • Keep a respectful distance from wildlife: 100 feet from otters and 50 feet from seals, sea lions, and dolphins.
  • Follow local traffic laws, park only in designated spots, and practice patience.
  • Be respectful and supportive of the local businesses on the waterfront.
  • Morro Bay Harbor Department brochure CLICK HERE
  • For Paddleboard safety CLICK HERE
  • For Kayak safety CLICK HERE
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October 24

Morro Bay Main Street Farmers Market

The Morro Bay Main Street Farmers Market is a certified California Farmers Market that runs every Saturday in downtown Morro Bay at Main St. and Morro Bay Blvd. Enjoy two blocks of farmers, fresh food, and artisan crafts. Every Saturday 2:30 - 5:30 (5:00 winter).

Every Saturday 2:30-5:30 pm (winter 5:00)
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