Festival of Whales Calendar of Events

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

38th Annual Festival of Whales

1-888-440-4309 or 949-472-7888

All Events are Weather Permitting

This calendar is being released on February 12, 2009 and is the final update

Every Day of the Festival

Whale Watching The incredible 5000-mile migration of the majestic California Gray Whale from Alaska to Mexico begins in December and continues through March. During this peak season, 40 – 50 whales pass by Dana Point each day, using the Dana Point Headland’s 200-foot cliffs near the harbor as a landmark to check their migration path. Dana Point offers the BEST whale watching along the California Coast – don’t miss it! There’s a whale watching excursion for everyone – note listings on final page.

Restaurant Week Provides an opportunity for guests to experience cuisine that tantalizes the taste buds while satiating the pocket book. Delectable three-course prix fixe menus from Dana Point’s best restaurants are available during the 38th Annual Dana Point Festival of Whales, March 6 – 15, 2008. In celebration of the 38th anniversary of the Festival, you may choose from a variety of the city’s best restaurants and enjoy a three-course dinner for just $38 per person, including tax and tip, OR treat yourself to a special lunch for $38 per couple, including tax and tip. There are no tickets or passes required for Restaurant Week. You may simply dine out at as many participating restaurants as you like. Advance reservations are strongly recommended and can be made by calling the restaurants directly. Visit danapointchamber.com for more information and a list of participating restaurants.

2009 Festival of Whales Merchandise T-shirts, sweatshirts and posters will be on sale throughout the Harbor and at the Street Faire. The Festival’s long-sleeve Ts will be back again this year by popular demand along with short sleeve Ts and hoodie sweatshirts.

FREE Shuttle Service is available every day of the Festival from 10 am to 4 pm. Please visit our online map for shuttle stops, routes, parking lot and event locations. Park and ride free all day long and migrate with the whales! http://www.festivalofwhales.com/areainfo.html

Saturday, March 7

Festival of Whales Parade
Parade begins promptly at 10 am with a route along Pacific Coast Highway from Selva Road to Golden Lantern in Dana Point. FREE shuttle service to and from Harbor parking lots will be available. Arrive early, enjoy breakfast harborside, board the free shuttle and then spend the day visiting all the great events located throughout the Harbor and Dana Point Plaza. Parade entrants are encouraged to embrace the Festival’s theme of Magical Migration when designing parade floats and costumes. Awards will be given to the Best Display of Parade Theme, Best Musical Unit, Best Youth Group, and Best Local Entry. For inquiries about giant balloon sponsorships and other parade questions, please contact Jennifer Anderson at the City of Dana Point (949) 248-3593. Parade applications are on the City’s webpage, www.danapoint.org

Street Faire
Hosted by the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce, beginning immediately after the Festival of Whales Parade at Dana Point Plaza, Pacific Coast Highway North at La Plaza, 10am- 5pm. The Faire will feature arts and crafts booths, unique food vendors, kids games and live entertainment – including a “Battle of the Bands” beginning at noon each day of the Street Faire! From 9 am to 1 pm during the Street Faire enjoy the Farmer’s Market featuring locally grown, organic and specialty items. It's a family event, with fun for everyone. FREE shuttle service from most Harbor parking lots to Dana Point Plaza. 800-290-DANA or 949-496-1555. www.danapointchamber.com

So Cal Woodies
The best of the best will be on display from the official Southern California Chapter of the National Woodie Club. Immediately following the Festival parade, So Cal Woodies will be escorted from the parade to adorn the grassy area adjacent to Baby Beach. The Club’s goal is to promote the wooden car, and the role it has played throughout automotive history, especially in the California surf culture. For more information visit http://www.socalwoodies.com/

Metropolitan Club
Beep Beep! Take a stroll down the Harbor walkway and enjoy an impressive display of Nash Metropolitans. Immediately following the Festival parade, the Nash Metropolitans will be escorted from the parade to the Harbor along with the Woodies. Founded in 1977, the Metropolitan Club of California Ltd., serves the Los Angeles and Orange County areas and is devoted to the unique little car Nash Metropolitan. The Metropolitan or "Met", is a classic car that was sold by Nash and Hudson. Designed by Bill Flajole, assembled by Austin Motor Co., in England. Metro's were produced from 1954 to 1961. http://www.nashmet.net/

Volleyball Tournament
Volleyball Tournament at Doheny State Beach features two divisions: Men's Doubles & Women's Doubles open to all levels. Check in for both divisions is 8:30 am day of tournament. Tourney will start at 9 am. To pre-register please call director Rod Cutting at (949) 498-3380. Entry fee for the event is $40/team. Check in by 8:30 am and pool play will start at 9 am sharp! In the case of inclement weather, the back up day is scheduled for (Saturday) March 14. Format used will be pool play followed by single elimination playoffs. Awards will be given for 1st & 2nd place for each division. Good luck and see you at the beach!

“Whale of a Shoe” Horseshoe Tournament
Held at Doheny State Beach Park's horseshoe courts located on the beach near lifeguard station #9 just south of the overnight camping area. Tournament entry sign-ups are at the horseshoe courts Saturday morning before the 12 Noon deadline. Play begins at 12:30 pm using a tournament format appropriate for the number of players entered. Bring your own horseshoes along with a $10 entry donation and enjoy this fun tournament with prizes for the winners. Please note: The park does not allow alcohol consumption in the horseshoe court area. For more information, contact Hal Griswold at 949-496-0577 or email setibird@yahoo.com

Seashore Interpretive Family Hike
Guided family tidepool hikes through the Dana Point Marine Protected Area with Ocean Institute naturalists. Hikes are available on a first come first serve basis. Space is limited. Sign up at the front desk of the Ocean Institute after admission is paid, no additional charge. See admission info below.

Ocean Institute
During the festival weekends the learning labs will focus on new discoveries in marine mammal research and allow visitors to explore a variety of fascinating phenomena unique to the magnificent whale. Families will have the opportunity to listen to underwater whale sounds to discover how they communicate, enjoy hands-on activities, learn from special speakers each day of the festival and create fun children’s crafts.

Guest speaker to be announced from 12:30 to 1:30 pm.

Thar She Blows, aboard the tallship Pilgrim at the Ocean Institute Through living history demonstrations, presentations and exciting hands-on activities, this adventurous program offers visitors a unique glimpse into life at sea during the early American whaler. Program available 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Program included in price of admission to the Ocean Institute.

Public hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission price is $6.50 for adults (13 yrs+) and $4.50 for children (3 -12 yrs); Children 2 and under are free. Members are free.

Dana Point Fine Arts Association Show & Sale
The Dana Point Fine Arts Association, a nonprofit organization that supports a local high school art department, will host a juried art show and sale from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. The art will be on display at the Harbor Boardwalk along the boat docks in Mariner's Village on the east side of Harpoon Henry's restaurant and east of Coffee Importers. Watercolor, oil, acrylic, photography, and other media by many award-winning local artists will be available for purchase. More info contact show chairperson Frank Stockl 949-363-5247 or Franksfotoimages@aol.com.

Sailing
Take a sailing ride and learn how to steer and sail a Capri 14! Ages 5 and up, 12 – 4 pm. $15 per boat, three people maximum (half-hour session). Lifejackets provided. OC Sailing & Event Center, 949-923-2215.

Dana Point Historical Society Walking Tour
At 2 pm meet at Bella Bazaar located at 34091 Pacific Coast Highway (corner of Blue Lantern and PCH) for the Walking Tour. For more information, call 949-248-8121 or www.danapointhistorical.org. FREE

Harbor Music Series
Presented by the Dana Point Harbor Association in the Jolly Roger Courtyard in Dana Wharf and Harpoon Henry Grassy Area near Mariner’s Village 12 – 3 pm. Enjoy a variety of musical styles and sounds. 949-923-2255 or danapointharbor.com FREE

Whale of a View
Stop by our Dolphin Deck at 24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive from 11 am to 3 pm for an exclusive free viewing of Captain Dave’s award winning Wild Dolphins and Whales of Southern California documentary. Viewings will be every hour. Purchase a signed copy of Captain Dave’s DVD or stop by with your children to get a Dolphin Balloon for $1. For more information call Captain Dave’s Dolphin and Whale Safari at 949-488-2828.

Saturday Evening Campfire Program
Listen to sea tales and learn about whales, sharks and other sea life by the fire at Doheny State Beach Campfire Center (in the campground) at 6 pm. Please alert entrance station staff upon arrival so they do not charge for vehicle entrance and direct visitors to appropriate parking location/site of campfire program. Please Note: Rain cancels evening program 949-496-2704 or www.dohenystatebeach.org FREE

Alfresco Saturday Night at the Movies on Baby Beach
Bring your beach chairs and blankets and get a front row seat for this special showing of Surf’s Up. An American Academy Award-nominated computer-animated mockumentary. It stars the voices of Shia LaBeouf, Jeff Bridges, Zooey Deschanel, Jon Heder among others. FREE Hot beverages and snacks will be sold during the event. Movie will begin shortly after sunset at approximately 6:30 pm.

Sunday, March 8

Street Faire
Hosted by the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce, at Dana Point Plaza, Pacific Coast Highway North at La Plaza, 10am- 5pm. The Faire will feature arts and crafts booths, unique food vendors, kids games and live entertainment by MTV2 “On the Rise” singer/songwriter Trevor Davis! From 9 am to 1 pm during the Street Faire enjoy the Farmer’s Market featuring locally grown, organic and specialty items. It's a family event, with fun for everyone. FREE shuttle service from most Harbor parking lots to Dana Point Plaza. 800-290-DANA or 949-496-1555. www.danapointchamber.com

So Cal Woodies
The best of the best will be on display from the official Southern California Chapter of the National Woodie Club. Immediately following the Festival parade, So Cal Woodies will adorn the grassy area adjacent to Baby Beach. The Club’s goal is to promote the wooden car, and the role it has played throughout automotive history, especially in the California surf culture. For more information visit http://www.socalwoodies.com/

Kids Free Fishing Clinic and Free Fishing Trip
Dana Wharf Sportfishing invites all children to come to their dock side fishing clinic and learn hands on techniques on fishing from the experts. Prizes will be raffled off at the end of the clinic - 12:00 - 12:30 pm. After the clinic Dana Wharf will be running a fishing trip from 12:45 - 5:45, adults are $39 plus license and equipment, children 12 and under fish for FREE. Extra bonus is the chance of spotting whales, dolphins and other marine life! This trip includes equipment! More information and reservations call Dana Wharf 949-496-5794

Ocean Institute
During the festival weekends the learning labs will focus on new discoveries in marine mammal research and allow visitors to explore a variety of fascinating phenomena unique to the magnificent whale. Families will have the opportunity to listen to underwater whale sounds to discover how they communicate, enjoy hands-on activities, learn from special speakers each day of the festival and create fun children’s crafts.

Guest speaker to be announced from 12:30 to 1:30 pm.

Thar She Blows, aboard the tallship Pilgrim at the Ocean Institute Through living history demonstrations, presentations and exciting hands-on activities, this adventurous program offers visitors a unique glimpse into life at sea during the early American whaler. Program available 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Program included in price of admission to the Ocean Institute.

Public hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission price is $6.50 for adults (13 yrs+) and $4.50 for children (3-12yrs); Children 2 and under are free. Members are free.

Saturday, March 14

Farmers Market and Culinary Adventure
Featuring locally grown, organic and specialty items that will be showcased in cooking demonstrations, floral arranging, wine pairings and tastings and much, much more. Located in the La Plaza Center from 9 am to 1 pm. FREE shuttle service from most Harbor parking lots to La Plaza Center.

Festival of Whales Junior Charity Regatta 2009
Be a part of our Southern California tradition celebrating the annual whale migration as junior sailors compete for the Festival of Whales Perpetual Trophy. This year, in addition to our traditional Naples Sabots, we will be expanding the regatta to include a Laser class! Join the fun and excitement as these junior sailors compete for the coveted Festival of Whales Perpetual Trophy. The first race starts promptly at noon with the first warning at 11:55 am. This regatta is open to any advanced junior sailor with race experience and their own Naples Sabot or Laser sailboat. For more information, including directions, Notice of Race and Entry Forms please visit us at http://www.dpyc.org or call DPYC at 949-496-2900. Parking for spectators is available at Dana Point Yacht Club on the west end of Dana Drive (The Island). Entry fee of $25 includes T-shirt. Proceeds to benefit the Dana Point Youth Charitable Foundation.

Ocean Awareness Day
Presented by the Dana Point Harbor Association, featuring interactive displays, demonstrations and entertainment showcasing ocean and environmental programs and issues related to our ocean. New to the event this year is a Children’s Community Art Project “Tails of Majestic Migration”. A 5 ft. tall Sculpted Whale Tail by artist Eric Danton will be the featured art piece of the project. Children will design their own paper whale tail and then write down their “whale tale” or pledge to protect the Ocean. Artist Aileen May will help guide the children with the decorating of the tail with beautiful mosaic tiles. The event is located at Baby Beach at the OC Sailing & Events Center, 34451 Ensenada Place, 11 am – 4 pm. The event and parking is FREE and there is also FREE shuttle service from most Harbor parking lots. 949-923-2255 or danapointharbor.com FREE

The Whale of a Rubber Ducky Race
Hosted by the Dana Point Woman’s Club, this fun spin on a traditional “Rubber Ducky Race” will be held from 11AM – 2PM at Baby Beach. Rubber Ducks can be pre-purchased at the Street Faire on March 7 & 8 and at Baby Beach the day of the event. Beginning March 1, ducks can be purchased at Beacon Printing, Dana Wharf Sportfishing and at the Dana Point Woman's Club web site (see below). Prizes will be awarded to 1st, 2nd and 3rd places. $6 per Rubber Duck or 2 for $10. You do not need to be present to win. Funds raised through this event will benefit the Woman’s Club scholarship fund. 949-496-4539 or www.danapointwomansclub.com

Ocean Institute
During the festival weekends the learning labs will focus on new discoveries in marine mammal research and allow visitors to explore a variety of fascinating phenomena unique to the magnificent whale. Families will have the opportunity to listen to underwater whale sounds to discover how they communicate, enjoy hands-on activities, learn from special speakers each day of the festival and create fun children’s crafts.

Guest speaker to be announced from 12:30 to 1:30 pm.

Thar She Blows, aboard the tallship Pilgrim at the Ocean Institute Through living history demonstrations, presentations and exciting hands-on activities, this adventurous program offers visitors a unique glimpse into life at sea during the early American whaler. Program available 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Program included in price of admission to the Ocean Institute.

Public hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission price is $6.50 for adults (13 yrs+) and $4.50 for children (3-12 yrs); Children 2 and under are free. Members are free.

Sunday, March 15

Festival of Whales Grunion Run – 5K Run and Kids’ 1K Run
5K begins at 8 AM followed by the Kids’ 1K at 9 AM. Awards scheduled for 9:30 AM. Pre-registration available online at www.festivalofwhalesgrunionrun.com. Packet pick up on March 13 & 14 at Fleet Feet Sports in Laguna Niguel from 10 AM to 7 PM. The Ocean Institute is offering a special program for children of Grunion Run participants from 7 to 9:30 am. Children will learn about marine life and the mysteries of the ocean with crafts, tide pool touch tanks, and much more. Register on line at http://www.ocean-institute.org or call (949)496-2274. The cost is $10 per child through 2/28, $15 per child 3/1 – 3/7, $20 per child 3/8 – 3/14, and $25 per child for on-site registration. FREE, pre-run shuttle service will begin at 7 AM and will have pick ups from the Ocean Institute, OC Sailing & Event Center and Dana Point Harbor Drive at Golden Lantern. Proceeds to benefit the Doheny State Interpretive Association, a non-profit public benefit corporation. After the Run, hop back on the Festival’s FREE shuttle and join everyone at the Whale of a Pancake Breakfast!

Whale of a Pancake Breakfast
Hosted by the Dana Point VFW Post 9934 and Ladies Auxiliary 9934 at the OC Sailing & Event Center’s Dana Cove Room from 8:30 - 11 am. Delicious, fluffy pancakes and tasty sausage served hot off the griddle with juice, milk or coffee. All proceeds will benefit the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Share in the fun and tradition and join us for a delicious breakfast! Adults - $8, Children under 12 - $5. For information 949-388-8768

Whale of a Concert
In honor of all the whales migrating by Dana Point Headlands “singing their song” the Festival of Whales will launch its first outdoor concert at Baby Beach with bands performing on the water on a specially designed stage. Concert will begin at noon with the opening act of Tijuana Dogs. Their special performance will be followed by Garratt Wilkin & The Parrotheads. The concert is FREE to the public. Bring your beach chairs, towels and blankets and set up on the beach or grass, or anchor your vessel in the Harbor and enjoy a full afternoon of great musical entertainment. Concessions for scrumptious BBQ specialties will also be available, including a Biergarten for those over 21 years old with a valid driver’s license.

Doheny State Beach Traveling Marine Mammal Museum
12 - 3pm Meets at Doheny State Beach’s Whale Walk. There will be a variety of genuine marine mammal artifacts for visitors to actively learn and gain an appreciation of these magnificent creatures of the sea. Please alert entrance station staff upon arrival so they can direct visitors to appropriate parking location/location of Whale Walk. Please Note: Free vehicle parking at Doheny State Beach for "Traveling Marine Mammal Museum" is limited to one hour only. Rain cancels. 949-496-2704 or www.dohenystatebeach.org FREE

Ocean Institute
During the festival weekends the learning labs will focus on new discoveries in marine mammal research and allow visitors to explore a variety of fascinating phenomena unique to the magnificent whale. Families will have the opportunity to listen to underwater whale sounds to discover how they communicate, enjoy hands-on activities, learn from special speakers each day of the festival and create fun children’s crafts.

Guest speaker to be announced from 12:30 to 1:30 pm.

Thar She Blows, aboard the tallship Pilgrim at the Ocean Institute Through living history demonstrations, presentations and exciting hands-on activities, this adventurous program offers visitors a unique glimpse into life at sea during the early American whaler. Program available 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Program included in price of admission to the Ocean Institute.

Public hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission price is $6.50 for adults (13 yrs+) and $4.50 for children (3-12 yrs); Children 2 and under are free. Members are free.

Whale of a View Stop by our Dolphin Deck at 24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive from 11 am to 3 pm for an exclusive free viewing of Captain Dave’s award winning Wild Dolphins and Whales of Southern California documentary. Viewings will be every hour. Purchase a signed copy of Captain Dave’s DVD or stop by with your children to get a Dolphin Balloon for $1. For more information call Captain Dave’s Dolphin and Whale Safari at 949-488-2828.

Whale Watching Excursions

See why Dana Point is the “Whale Capital of the West!” Most excursions are 2-3 hours long. Reservations recommended.

Dana Wharf Whale Watching
(800) 979-3370 or (800) 590-9994
www.danawharf.com
Check out our schedule and BUY online at http://www.danawharf.com/ Or call 800-979-3370. Celebrate 38 years with the Originator of Whale Watching in Orange County. Take an adventure to see the California Gray Whales in their natural environment. Fun for all ages and sightings of whales or dolphins are guaranteed or come back again and ride free. Prices: Adults - $29, Senior and Military - $24, Children 3-12 years - $19, Children 2 and under are free. NEW for 2009 The Whale of a Deal at 8 am. All seats just $8 in celebration of 38 years of whale watching. Weekends only.

Dana Wharf also invites you to experience their new catamaran, the 63-foot OCean Adventure. This beautiful NEW, state-of-the-art vessel with a full-service deli-style galley offers a 4-hour Gray Whale Voyage on the weekends with a morning departure. This unique excursion will take you into the open waters of the Pacific and focus on locating large pods of the California Gray Whale. All trips feature a certified marine biologist for a one-on-one educational experience. It’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in the magical migration of the California Gray Whale: state-of-the-art vessel, trained educators and LOTS of fun! Prices: Adults - $79, Children 4-12 years old - $49, and Children 3 and under are free. Offered twice each day of the Festival. Reservation can be made at danawharf.com

Dana Island Yacht Charters
(949) 248-7400
http://www.danapointwhalewatching.com
"Sail with the whales"! No more than 6 passengers will be aboard each of our large and luxurious U. S. Coast Guard regulated Sailboats. Smaller group sizes offer more comfort & privacy. Narration provided by friendly Captain. $35 per person for a 2 hour trip. Special offer: mention this ad to reserve a private tour for only $180 – a $30 savings!

Ocean Institute Marine Mammal Cruises
(949) 496-2274
www.ocean-institute.org
More than just a whale watch, this cruise introduces participants to whales, dolphins, and sea lions using state-of-the-art equipment including satellites, plankton nets, sediment samplers, and video microscopes. Experience these magnificent animals and learn about feeding strategies, migration, and behavior patterns. Cruise times are 10 am, 12:30 pm, 1:30 pm and 4 pm on Festival weekends. Member pricing is $22/adult and $19/child (4 – 12 years old). Non-member pricing is $35/adult and $22/child (4 – 12 years old). Weekend admission to the Institute is included with the cruise ticket purchase.

Ocean Institute Whale of a Tale
From “Devil Fish” to “Friendliest Whale,” explore how time and discovery have shaped man’s perception of the magnificent Gray Whale. Join us for an exciting tallship sailing adventure as you gain new insights into man’s evolving relationship with the ocean and the giants that roam our California Coast. Available Saturdays during the Festival, March 7 and 14, 1 pm to 3:30 pm. Cost: Non-members, $40 adults, $23 children 12 & under. Members, $36 adults, $21 children 12 & under (min. age 4).

Capt. Dave’s Whale & Dolphin Safari
(949) 488-2828
www.dolphinsafari.com
Bring the kids, family and friends and get really up-close and personal with herds of dolphin up to 5,000 strong, migrating Gray Whales (Jan - April) and migrating Blue Whales (June – Oct.). Captain Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Safari in Dana Point will take you aboard a hi-tech catamaran sailboat with its exclusive Eye-to-Eye Underwater viewing POD™ for an educational and incredibly exciting experience where you’ll get a chance to get within arm’s reach of dolphin herds. See and hear the animals too with an underwater camera and hydrophone while an experienced marine naturalist explains how these animals live. Mrs. Capt. Dave’s triple fudge brownies are served. Departures daily are usually at 10:30 am and 1:30 pm. Fare: $55; ages 3-11, $35. Two and under, free. Telephone reservations are required. Phone (949) 488-2828. http://www.dolphinsafari.com Mention this listing for $5 off per person.

Aventura Sailing
(949) 493-9493
www.aventurasailing.com
Enjoy a Day Sail aboard one of Aventura's luxury sailboats. $30 per person or enjoy a Private Boat for $180, 6-passenger maximum, 2 ½ hour trips. Don't forget to bring your cameras and capture the whales...as their tails fly high!

Media Note: Full-color digital images are available online at www.festivalofwhales.org.

Please contact Penny Elia at 949-499-4499 for additional information or to book a whale watching excursion.