Returning May 29–30, 2026, the iconic oceanfront festival transforms Descanso Beach Club into a high-energy weekend of curated wine, live music, VIP experiences, and unforgettable island moments just 22 miles off the Southern California coast.
Now in its 11th year, the Catalina Wine Mixer has become one of the most anticipated events in California blending the energy of a music festival, the atmosphere of a luxury beach club, and the fun of a legendary movie-inspired weekend escape.
A Weekend Escape Unlike Anywhere in California
The Catalina Wine Mixer isn’t just a concert or wine tasting - it’s a full island getaway.
Guests arrive by ferry to the charming seaside city of Avalon, where palm-lined streets, ocean views, beach clubs, boutique hotels, and historic landmarks set the stage for a weekend that feels worlds away from the crowded freeways of Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego.
Whether you’re booking a romantic weekend, a luxury group getaway, or an unforgettable friends trip, the Catalina Wine Mixer combines:
- Oceanfront wine tastings
- Live DJs and dancing under the stars
- VIP lounges and cabanas
- Historic island venues
- Beachfront dining and cocktails
- Late-night parties
- No flights or passports needed. Just a scenic ferry ride to the island
And unlike mainland music festivals, your experience doesn’t end when the music stops.
MEDUZA Headlines the 2026 Catalina Wine Mixer
This year’s event is headlined by GRAMMY-nominated MEDUZA, known for global hits like “Lose Control,” and massive festival performances around the world.
Additional performers include:
- MD4D
- gnash
- Patrick & the LVB
- Brent George
- DJ Michael Basic
- Ricky Rocks
- Throughout Saturday, Descanso Beach Club transforms into a vibrant beachfront festival with live music, premium wine tastings, dancing, ocean views, and the signature Catalina Island atmosphere guests return for year after year.
Friday Night Kicks Off the Island Party
The festivities begin Friday, May 29, with events across Avalon.
VIP guests can enjoy exceptional wines, elevated food stations, and live music at the historic Catalina Country Club before heading to the Opening Bash (open to the public). New for 2026, the bash is moving upstairs inside the iconic Catalina Casino Wrigley Ballroom!
Fans of the cult-classic film, Step Brothers, can also attend a special screening of the film that started it all at the legendary Avalon Theatre before the beach party continues under the stars at Descanso Beach Club. Get ready to quote the entire movie with your new best friends.
Introducing the First-Ever Wine Mixer Games
New for 2026, the Wine Mixer Games adds to the fun on Saturday with a playful competition designed to keep the party going all weekend long.
Participants can compete in activities including:
- Mini golf at Golf Gardens
- Basketball free-throw, Football ring toss & Subsoccer at Flx Biergarten
- Winers of the Wine Mixer Games will receive Catalina Island Company gift cards up to $400!
The Wine Mixer Games bring a fun, social energy to the weekend while embracing the playful Step Brother’s spirit that made the Catalina Wine Mixer famous.
VIP Experiences, Beachfront Cabanas & Ocean Views
For guests looking to elevate their experience, VIP admission unlocks exclusive early wine tastings and access to the Catherine’s Terrace VIP Lounge overlooking the music festival .
VIP amenities include:
- Premium wine tastings
- Elevated food stations
- Ocean-view lounge access
- Private restrooms
- Dedicated viewing areas
- Air-conditioned indoor spaces
- Full cash bar
Guests can also reserve private cabanas and chaise lounges at Descanso Beach Club for a true luxury beach club experience complete with personalized food and beverage service throughout the day.
Stay the Weekend on Catalina Island
One of the best parts of the Catalina Wine Mixer is turning the event into a full weekend escape.
Official hotel and ferry packages make it easy to stay steps from the festivities while enjoying everything Catalina Island has to offer.
Guests can book stays at:
- Pavilion Hotel - a recently refreshed beachfront favorite in the heart of Avalon
- Hotel Atwater - a beautifully renovated historic hotel inspired by Catalina’s 1920s golden era
Many visitors extend their stay to enjoy:
- Oceanfront dining
- Kayaking and paddleboarding
- Ziplining and island adventures
- Scenic hiking trails
- Beach club lounging
- Snorkeling in Catalina’s famous clear waters
- Exploring Avalon’s shops, restaurants, and nightlife
For guests looking to add a little adventure to their Catalina Wine Mixer weekend, Hermit Gulch Campground offers the only Catalina Island camping experience located within Avalon city limits. Nestled in scenic Avalon Canyon near the Wrigley Memorial & Botanical Garden, the campground combines the feel of a classic California outdoor escape with easy access to Avalon’s restaurants, nightlife, shopping, tours, and festivities. It’s also the gateway to Catalina’s famous hiking trails, including the trailhead for the 38.5-mile Trans-Catalina Trail, making it a unique way to experience both the energy of the Wine Mixer and the island’s natural beauty in one unforgettable weekend.
Why the Catalina Wine Mixer Has Become a California Bucket-List Event
There’s simply nothing else like it in Southern California.
Where else can you:
- Dance to world-class DJs on an island
- Sip wine beside the Pacific Ocean
- Stay in boutique beachfront hotels
- Watch a movie in a historic theater
- Ride a ferry across the ocean to a weekend beach festival
The Catalina Wine Mixer combines luxury, fun, music, wine, and island adventure into one unforgettable California weekend.
Book Your Catalina Wine Mixer Weekend
Tickets for the 2026 Catalina Wine Mixer are now available, including General Admission, VIP experiences, cabanas, and official hotel packages.
Guests must be 21+ to attend.
Learn more and secure tickets at Catalina Wine Mixer Official Event Page