The Top Summer Activities and Events in Anaheim You Won’t Want to Miss
When most people think of Anaheim, the first thing that comes to mind is the world-famous Disneyland theme park. While Disneyland is definitely a place worth visiting—and revisiting—there are tons of other things to do and see in Anaheim that might not be as well known.
If you will be spending time in Anaheim this summer, here are the top activities and events in the area that you won’t want to miss, including the activities, events, shows, and performances.
Summer Activities
Nearby Beaches
You can’t be in Southern California during the summer and not go to the beach! Although it is not right on the coast, Anaheim is less than an hour’s drive away from Southern California’s most popular beaches, including the beaches in Long Beach, Huntington Beach, and Newport Beach. Here are some of the best beaches near Anaheim:
- Alamitos Beach
- Bolsa Chica State Beach
- Mothers Beach
- Huntington State Beach
- Huntington City Beach
- Corona Del Mar State Beach
- Balboa Pier Beach
- Main Beach in Laguna Beach
- Little Corona Del Mar Beach
- Moro Beach
- Hermosa City Beach
- Redondo County Beach
- Manhattan County Beach
So, grab your surfboard, beach ball, and sunscreen, and spend a summer day soaking up the sun at the beach!
Drive-in Movie
This year, Anaheim Town Square will host drive-in movies throughout the summer. They will be located at the parking lot near Wells Fargo in downtown Anaheim. Entrance is free, but you must RSVP on the website to attend. Here is the movie lineup for this summer:
- June 12, 2022: Finding Nemo (8:00–10:00 p.m.)
- July 10, 2022: Monsters Inc. (8:00–10:00 p.m.)
- August 14, 2022: 10 Things I Hate About You (7:30–9:00 p.m.)
- September 11, 2022: Under the Same Moon (7:00–8:30 p.m.)
Farmers Market
There’s something cheery about strolling around a farmers market and perusing the fresh baked goods, locally grown produce, and artisan crafts. The Downtown Anaheim Certified Farmers Market has all this, plus live entertainment!
The Anaheim farmers market is located at Center Street Promenade and Lemon Street and occurs every Thursday from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. (weather permitting). This summer, spend an afternoon checking it out!
Theme Parks
Of course, we can’t forget the classic theme parks in Anaheim: Disneyland and Knott’s Berry Farm. In addition to the rides and attractions of the theme park, Disneyland Resort always has special events and activities going on. View the monthly calendar of events to see what interests you this summer!
Similarly, Knott’s Betty Farm has events throughout the summer, from taste testing to live music. Even if you have been before, it is always a good time at the theme parks in Anaheim!
Events
Reptile Super Show
Have you ever had an interest in reptiles, or would you like to lean more? This summer, Anaheim will be home to the Reptile Super Show, where reptile lovers will gather from all over to see and purchase exotic reptiles, attend educational workshops, and access supplies to create a comfortable living environment for their pets. With over 100,000 square feet of space dedicated to this exposition, this is a unique opportunity to explore the world of reptiles.
This event will take place on Saturday, July 9, 2022, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and Sunday, July 10, from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Anaheim Convention Center. Visit the website to reserve tickets, which range $10–15.
VidCon
If you are passionate about video content—or maybe you just love watching TikTok reels—Anaheim has a treat in store for you. This year’s VidCon, presented by TikTok, will take place at the Anaheim Convention Center on June 22–25, 2022. This is where the world’s most prominent digital creators connect with their fans for four fun-filled days, complete with food, activities, keynote speakers, Q&As, workshops, networking, and more. Package prices range from $59 to $755 and include varying levels of access. Buy your tickets here.
Angels Games
Anaheim is lucky to have Angel Stadium, the home field of the Los Angeles Angels, so close by! There are plenty of opportunities to attend a game throughout the summer. Here are the home games to look forward to:
- June 6–9: Boston Red Sox
- June 10–12: New York Mets
- June 20–22: Kansas City Royals
- June 24–26: Seattle Mariners
- June 27–29: Chicago White Sox
- July 12–14: Houston Astros
- July 15–16: Los Angeles Dodgers
See the specific game times here. You can get seats for prices as low as $4.
Shows and Performances
Summers in Anaheim are loaded with exciting shows and performances. Here are a few to take note of:
Sad Summer Festival
Contrary to the name, this music festival is actually quite lively and enjoyable—if you are into alternative and indie music. This year’s annual festival will feature artists including Waterpark, Mayday Parade, Neck Deep, State Champs, Against the Current, Hot Mulligan, Magnolia Park, and the Summer Set.
The Sad Summer Festival will take place at the City National Grove of Anaheim on July 9, 2022, starting at 2:30 p.m. Tickets range from $49 to $120 and can be purchased online.
Totally 80s Live
If alternative isn’t your thing, that’s okay! Instead, Totally 80s Live at the House of Blues might be more to your liking. Listen to popular 80s artists, such as The Untouchables, Gene Loves Jezebel, The Motels, When In Rome II, and Bow Wow Wow. The venue even includes a restaurant with classic Southern dishes.
Doors open at 7:00 p.m., and tickets are $25. The event is open to all ages.
Other Concerts
So many concerts are going on in Anaheim this summer that you are sure to find one that suits your taste. Here are some more concerts to look into:
- Motion City Soundtrack: July 8
- Machine Gun Kelly: July 16
- Michael Franti & Spearhead: July 29
- Red Hot Chilli Peppers: July 31
- Teyana Taylor: August 4
- New Found Glory, Four Years Strong, and Be Well: August 5
- Simple Plan & Sum 41: August 6–7
- OneRepublic & NEEDTOBREATHE: August 19
Whether you are a concert junkie, a baseball superfan, or a relax-at-the-beach kind of person, there is something for you this summer in Anaheim, California. There are plenty of summer activities, events, and shows suitable for a day with the family or a night out with friends. Check out these ideas of things you won’t want to miss!
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