The 2nd Annual Catalina Mermaid Festival is scheduled to return to the City of Avalon on October 24 and 25, 2026. Set for the last full weekend of October, the event invites aspiring mermaids and mermen to experience a blend of fantastical fall magic and supernatural sea tales on Santa Catalina Island. The festival aims to add a distinctive flair to Avalon, drawing attendees to its shores for a variety of ocean-themed activities.
A central highlight of the festival will be the Mermaid and Ocean-Themed Art Festival, taking place along Crescent Avenue on both Saturday and Sunday. In addition to the art showcase, several other "fin-tastic happenings" are planned for nearby locations. These include a rubber ducky derby, a mermaid synchronized swim, and live music performances. A procession of dinghies is also part of the splashy scene, alongside a screening of "The Little Mermaid" on the sand. Mermaid Bingo is listed as another tempting draw for festival-goers.
The festival is designed to capture the island's sizable spirit by offering a dose of the supernatural with its sea tales. It builds upon Avalon's long-standing connection to mythical and magical maritime themes, reflecting an ethereal side of the city. The event creates a unique opportunity for people who appreciate such imaginative celebrations to engage with the island's coastal charm.
This annual festivity draws inspiration from Avalon's own legendary Casino Mermaid. This striking siren, created by artist John Gabriel Beckman nearly a century ago, is an Art Deco icon. The famous artwork has long symbolized the City of Avalon's mystical character, known even to mavens of mermaidiana who may not have seen it in person. The festival offers a chance for many to connect with this local symbol in a new way.
Catalina Island, while not massive, is noted for its strong community spirit. Beyond the mermaid mythos, the island is known for its real critters, such as buffalo and flying fish, which inspire both curiosity and devotion among its admirers. The island also hosts a range of other annual events, from a harbor cleanup to the New Year's Eve party held in the Casino Building, all of which contribute to the island experience cherished by its residents and visitors.
The Catalina Mermaid Festival contributes to a growing trend of mermaid-themed events in California. Mermaids and mermen across the Golden State have other opportunities for such festivities, as Ventura Harbor Village, for instance, celebrates Mermaid Month each March with spritely sightings near the water on select Saturdays. This suggests a broader appreciation for mermaid merriment that may continue to expand along California's extensive coastline.
