Festival of Arts Pageant of the Masters
Experience art come to life! Famous masterpieces are meticulously recreated with real people in a stunning outdoor theatrical production.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cool breezes & magical ambiance
Festival of Arts Pageant of the Masters
Best Time
Cool breezes & magical ambiance
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience art come to life! Famous masterpieces are meticulously recreated with real people in a stunning outdoor theatrical production.
"ALWAYS WONDERFUL, ALWAYS MAGICAL!!! The Pageant of the Masters and Festival of Arts are annual must see events!"
Bring a Jacket! 🧥
Temperatures drop significantly after sunset in the outdoor amphitheater. A blanket or jacket is essential for comfort.
Binoculars are a MUST! 🔭
To truly appreciate the intricate details of the living art, binoculars are highly recommended. You can rent them there too.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Living Masterpieces
Irvine Bowl Amphitheater
Witness famous artworks meticulously recreated with real people, costumes, and sets. It's art that moves!
Festival of Arts Galleries
Festival Grounds
Explore a vibrant showcase of diverse artworks from local and national artists. Meet the creators and find unique pieces.
Junior Art Exhibit
Festival Grounds
Admire imaginative and creative artwork from talented students, showcasing the future of art.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Arrive Early for the Festival
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring a Jacket! 🧥
Temperatures drop significantly after sunset in the outdoor amphitheater. A blanket or jacket is essential for comfort.
Binoculars are a MUST! 🔭
To truly appreciate the intricate details of the living art, binoculars are highly recommended. You can rent them there too.
Picnic & Drinks Welcome! 🧺
You can bring your own food and drinks in a soft-sided cooler (14x14x14 inches). Perfect for a pre-show picnic!
No Cameras Allowed! 🚫
Photography and cell phones are prohibited during the show to preserve the illusion and magic.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring a Jacket! 🧥
Temperatures drop significantly after sunset in the outdoor amphitheater. A blanket or jacket is essential for comfort.
Binoculars are a MUST! 🔭
To truly appreciate the intricate details of the living art, binoculars are highly recommended. You can rent them there too.
Picnic & Drinks Welcome! 🧺
You can bring your own food and drinks in a soft-sided cooler (14x14x14 inches). Perfect for a pre-show picnic!
No Cameras Allowed! 🚫
Photography and cell phones are prohibited during the show to preserve the illusion and magic.
Consider Date Night! ❤️
The Pageant of the Masters offers a unique and romantic evening, perfect for couples looking for a memorable experience. +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Pageant of the Masters as a magical and wonderful annual event, highlighting the unique 'living art' and the vibrant Festival of Arts. Many appreciate the opportunity to spend a full day in Laguna Beach, enjoying the art and atmosphere before the evening show. The outdoor amphitheater setting and the creativity of the annual themes are frequently lauded.
"ALWAYS WONDERFUL, ALWAYS MAGICAL!!! The Pageant of the Masters and Festival of Arts are annual must see events! A great escape from the summer heatwaves to cool ocean breezes and mild temperatures of Laguna Beach.
My favorite artwork is the Junior Art Exhibit with juried artwork from grade school to high school age children. Was very happy to see this years entries were much more imaginative and creative once again versus the years after COVID lock downs.
We have a whole days outing in Laguna Beach so we have time to see the art festivals (Festival of Arts, the Junior Art Exhibit, The Sawdust Festival) and enjoy a great meal by the beach before we head to the Pageant in the evening.
Love how they show you what goes in to setting up a scene with a painting as they place models in their make-up and costumes, roll down the backdrop, and place props in. It's amazing to see the real magic happen when they light the set to create the mood and color palette of the artist, to make real people look like a part of the painting.
Be sure to bring a blanket or jacket, seat cushions and binoculars if you have them. Temperatures really drop after sunset."
Lorel Saiki
"This is a MUST see during the summer months in Laguna Beach!! The Irvine bowl does NOT have a bad seat in the house. It is like a miniature Hollywood Bowl but with a much more quaint feeling. The trees surrounding the bowl is undeniably beautiful at night. Before you enter the bowl make sure you arrive early to visit the art show and talk to the artist. They are charming and excited to sell you their art work.
The Pageant of the Masters has been running over 90 years and continues to impress and get more creative every year. It started in 1933 and recreates famous artists paintings,sculptors and statues in a three-dee form. This year was about visiting all the famous museums in California and bringing them to life. Binoculars are a MUST to see the details of each scene. You may buy, rent or bring your own. This is definitely a unique and beautiful experience well worth seeing. Unfortunately no cameras or cell phones are allowed. Eat before you go or bring your own in a 14x14x14 cooler with goodies and drinks to share. YOU WON’T BE DISAPPOINTED!!! A MUST!!!"
Sandra Mack
"Such a fun art festival and show ! Our family has made a tradition of going every year for decades now. We like to arrive early to enjoy the artisan booths prior to the show itself. We look forward to the different themes every year. This years’ was fantastic per usual! It is such an incredible mix of art and performance."
Kelly Sidney
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Pageant of the Masters is located at the Irvine Bowl in Laguna Beach, CA. Many visitors drive, but parking can be challenging. Consider using ride-sharing services or public transportation. Some TikToks mention free trolleys from Irvine to Laguna Beach, which can be a convenient option.
Limited parking is available in Laguna Beach, and it can fill up quickly. Street parking and paid lots are options, but arriving early is key. Some visitors suggest utilizing the free trolley services to avoid parking hassles.
Yes, public transportation options are available. Check local transit schedules for bus routes serving Laguna Beach. As mentioned, free trolleys from nearby areas like Irvine can be a great way to reach the venue without worrying about parking.
Driving is common, but can be stressful with parking. Many recommend ride-sharing or utilizing the free trolley services from surrounding areas. Planning your route in advance is advised.
Laguna Beach is a walkable town, but getting to the Irvine Bowl might require some navigation. Following signs for the Festival of Arts and Pageant of the Masters is recommended. Using GPS or a map app on your phone is helpful.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can be purchased directly from the official Pageant of the Masters website (foapom.com) or through authorized ticket vendors. Booking in advance is highly recommended as shows often sell out.
The Pageant of the Masters typically runs nightly from early July through late August. Always check the official website for the most current dates and showtimes for the specific year.
Ticket prices vary depending on seating location and performance date. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date pricing information.
Discounts may be available for groups or specific packages. Keep an eye on the official website or social media channels for any promotional offers.
The show typically starts at 8:30 PM. It's advisable to arrive early to explore the Festival of Arts and find your seats.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
It's a unique theatrical production where famous artworks are recreated live on stage using real people as models. Accompanied by a live orchestra and narration, it's a magical experience that brings art to life. 
Dress is typically casual to semi-casual. Since it's an outdoor evening event, comfortable clothing is recommended. Many attendees dress in layers as it can get cool after sunset.
Yes, you can bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages in a soft-sided cooler (up to 14x14x14 inches). This is a great way to save money and enjoy a picnic before the show.
Yes, the Pageant is generally considered family-friendly. The visual spectacle and live performance are engaging for all ages. The Junior Art Exhibit also appeals to younger audiences.
The theme changes annually. Past themes have included 'Gold Coast,' 'A La Mode: The Art of Fashion,' and 'Art Colony: In the Company of Artists.' Check the official website for the current year's theme.
📸 📸 Photography
No, photography and video recording are strictly prohibited during the performance to maintain the illusion and respect the artists.
Absolutely! The Festival of Arts, with its numerous artist booths and outdoor setting, offers many opportunities for beautiful photos. Capture the vibrant art and the lively atmosphere.
Late afternoon and early evening, before the Pageant show, can offer beautiful lighting for photos of the art and the grounds. Golden hour is particularly stunning.
Generally, yes, but it's always polite to ask the artist for permission before taking their photo or close-ups of their work.
The outdoor amphitheater and the various art installations throughout the Festival grounds provide picturesque backdrops. The overall ambiance of Laguna Beach also lends itself to great photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💖 Couples & Date Nights
🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Collectors
Don't miss the opportunity to discuss art with the creators. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Living Pictures
The process involves meticulous attention to detail, from makeup and costumes to lighting and staging, all designed to perfectly replicate the original paintings, sculptures, and other art forms. Each year, a new theme guides the selection of artworks, drawing inspiration from various art movements, historical periods, or specific museums.
+1 The production features a live orchestra and a narrator who guides the audience through the artistic journey. This combination of visual spectacle, live music, and storytelling creates an unforgettable experience that has become a summer tradition for many. Audience members often describe the experience as 'magical,' 'wonderful,' and 'mesmerizing.'
The dedication of the hundreds of volunteers, from performers to crew, is evident in the seamless execution of each tableau. Exploring the Festival of Arts
+1 It's an excellent opportunity to engage directly with the artists, learn about their creative processes, and even purchase unique pieces to take home. The festival grounds are alive with activity, often featuring live music performances and various culinary options.
+1 It's a perfect place to spend an afternoon, enjoying the California sunshine and the creative energy of Laguna Beach. Beyond the main art show, the Festival of Arts also hosts special events, including art classes like 'Prints and Pinots,' offering a hands-on creative experience.
The Junior Art Exhibit is another highlight, displaying impressive works by talented young artists, which is often a favorite for families. Planning Your Visit: Tips from the Community
Food and drink policies are a common point of discussion. Visitors are allowed to bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages in a soft-sided cooler (14x14x14 inches), which can be a cost-saving measure and allows for a pleasant pre-show picnic.
For those looking to make a full day of their visit, arriving early to explore the Festival of Arts is highly recommended. This allows ample time to browse the artist booths, enjoy the atmosphere, and perhaps even catch some live music before the Pageant begins.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit