Holiday Events in

Avalon Catalina Island

Tis' the season to travel! Here are some amazing events at Catalina Island 26 miles across the sea!
Avalon Half-Marathon
California's ultimate trail half-marathon will challenge you with climbs, peaks and vistas unlike any you will experience at any other half marathon.   You will start in the town of Avalon, run past the Wrigley Mansion, and then enter the Interior for a few miles of climbs.  You will be rewarded at the summit with sweeping views of Pacific Ocean where on a clear day will see two other islands that comprise the Channel Islands.    After running past the summit you will run downhill through the Wrigley Memorial before finishing back in town.  
Date & Time:: Nov. 16.

First Fridays at the Museum - Holiday Kick Off
This month's First Fridays at the Museum is considered the kick-off to the Holiday Season! The evening features a Museum Store Sale, a visit from a special guest and more! Stay tuned for additional details.
First Fridays at the Museum provide an opportunity to explore the museum's galleries, digital theater, open-air plazas and shop in the Museum Store after dark. Each month features a themed program and a specialty cocktail, wine and beer.  
Date & Time: Dec. 6. 
Location: 217 Metropole Ave, Avalon.
(310) 510-2414

26th Annual "Shop Catalina"
Join us for an afternoon and evening of holiday cheer, entertainment, shopping and fabulous savings! Our island shops open their doors and offer rarely offered discounts on your favorite island jewelry, art, clothing, unique gifts, housewares and more.
In-store prize drawings at participating shops
Community Tree Lighting with Santa on Wrigley Stage at 5 pm
Strolling, costumed holiday carolers, The Jingle Singers
Canned food drive & photos with Santa at Antonio's Cabaret
Beach side photo ops
Opportunity to win two reservations to the 2019 New Year's Eve Gala
Date & Time: Runs hrough Dec. 31. This is the ONLY day to pick up your Shop Catalina Discount Card, which is valid on purchases through Dec. 31.
For extra savings, pair your visit with a Best of Winter Boat & Hotel Package. 
Date & Time: Dec. 7. 
Location: Wrigley Stage, Shops in Avalon.

Polar Bear Swim & Plunge
Join the City of Avalon & the Catalina Swim Club for a New Year’s Day Polar Bear Swim at 7:30am at Casino Dive Park, Intermediate to Advanced Swimmers, approximately 1 mile, and Polar Bear Plunge at 11:30am, Middle Beach, family fun – just plunge or swim the pier with us. Hot chocolate & light refreshments served. 
Date & Time: Jan. 1. 
Location: 1 Green Pleasure Pier, Avalon.

Avalon 50K/50M Benefit Run
The Avalon 50 Mile Benefit Run is coming up on it's 39th Anniversary! Come over, see the buffalo, the incredible vista’s and experience YOUR ultimate challenge on Catalina Island.
Race weekend consists of two events- the 50 Mile Run and in it's 2nd year, the Avalon 50K. The Avalon 50K (31 miles) runs a good portion of the traditional 50 Mile Run but will not run the out and back to Two Harbors, instead turning south at Little Harbor Overlook and heading back through Ben Wesson, Eagles Nest and up Middle Ranch Road to the finish in Avalon. You will experience the same great views, the commradarie, the tradition and the excitement of the 50 Mile – but just a bit less of it.
If you have ever thought of venturing out to Catalina Island, this is the year to come Run Catalina!
This race is part of the SoCal Ultra Series. Series members can earn points by competing in this race.
In cooperation with our host, the Avalon 50K/50M are CUPLESS COURSES! We will have water and electrolyte mix at every aid station. For hydration, participants have the option to purchase a $6 reusable cup from our merchandise store or provide their own hydration system. Thank you for helping us reduce the footprint on the island!
Date & Time: Jan. 11.
Location: Crescent & the Pier, Avalon, CA - Santa Catalina Island Co.