California, December 19, 2025
California is preparing to host significant events in the near future that aim to bolster its tourism sector and stimulate economic activity across the state. Key highlights include the 37th Palm Springs International Film Festival, Coachella 2026, the 2026 World Cup, and the 84th World Science Fiction Convention. These large-scale events are expected to attract millions of visitors, showcasing California’s vibrant culture and commitment to improving its infrastructure to support tourism growth.
California’s Tourism Industry Gears Up for Major Events in 2026
Los Angeles, California – California is gearing up for an exciting year in 2026, hosting a series of major events that promise to boost tourism and invigorate economic activity statewide. Among the highlights are the 37th Palm Springs International Film Festival, Coachella 2026, the prestigious 2026 World Cup, and the highly anticipated 84th World Science Fiction Convention. These events not only attract visitors from around the world but also showcase the resilience and entrepreneurial spirit that defines California’s cultural landscape.
With a focus on enhancing infrastructure and reducing barriers to entry for event organizers and businesses alike, California aims to position itself as a leading destination for world-class experiences. A supportive regulatory environment can promote growth in the tourism sector, allowing small businesses to thrive and offering a vibrant array of attractions for visitors and locals.
Upcoming Major Events in 2026
- 37th Palm Springs International Film Festival: Scheduled from January 2 to 12, 2026, this festival will showcase 168 films from 72 countries, including 53 premieres and 44 Oscar submissions. Opening with Maryam Touzani’s Spanish drama “Calle Málaga” and closing with Brian Cox’s British drama “Glenrothan”, the festival is set to be a major draw for film enthusiasts.
- Coachella 2026: Taking place from April 10 to 19, 2026, at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, this landmark festival will celebrate its 25th edition with headliners like Sabrina Carpenter, Justin Bieber, Karol G, and Anyma. The event proved its popularity by selling out within a week of its announcement, further solidifying its place in the music festival landscape.
- 2026 World Cup: With Los Angeles and the Bay Area selected as host locations, the 2026 World Cup is projected to generate over $1 billion in economic impact. An estimated $594 million will benefit Los Angeles County, while the Bay Area anticipates up to $630 million, drawing hundreds of thousands of international visitors.
- 84th World Science Fiction Convention (LAcon V): Scheduled for August 27-31, 2026, in Anaheim, this convention will feature prominent figures in the science fiction community, making it a must-attend event for genre enthusiasts.
Infrastructure Developments to Support Tourism
To manage the anticipated influx of visitors during these major events, California is investing in critical infrastructure projects:
- LAX Automated People Mover: Set to open in 2026, this multi-billion-dollar project will upgrade Los Angeles International Airport, providing efficient access to terminals and integrating services with the Metro Transit Center.
- Metro D Line Subway Extension: Expected to commence operations in Winter 2026, this subway extension will significantly reduce travel times and improve access to key areas along Wilshire Boulevard.
- West Harbor – San Pedro: Slated for completion in early 2026, this $170-million development will transform the old Ports O’Call site, creating a vibrant 42-acre waterfront destination featuring dining, retail, and entertainment spaces.
Economic Impact and Tourism Growth
The anticipated economic activity from the 2026 World Cup and other events is expected to rejuvenate local economies, creating jobs and opportunities throughout California. As the state reaffirms its position as a global hub for tourism, entrepreneurs and local businesses are anticipated to benefit from heightened consumer activity and international exposure.
Additional Events and Attractions
In conjunction with these major events, California will also host an array of additional attractions in 2026, including:
- Frieze Los Angeles 2026: This premier art fair will return to the Santa Monica Airport campus from February 26 to March 1, 2026, showcasing 95 international and local galleries.
- U.S. Open Women’s Championship: The prestigious tournament will take place at the Riviera Country Club in Pacific Palisades in 2026, highlighting LA’s role in the world of women’s golf.
- San Diego Bay Food + Wine Festival: Projected to attract over 14,000 attendees, this festival underscores San Diego’s status as a leader in culinary tourism.
Through these exciting events and strategic infrastructure investments, California demonstrates its commitment to enhancing tourism and economic vitality throughout 2026.
FAQ
What are the major events California is hosting in 2026?
California is set to host several major events in 2026, including the 37th Palm Springs International Film Festival, Coachella 2026, the 2026 World Cup, and the 84th World Science Fiction Convention (LAcon V).
When and where is the 37th Palm Springs International Film Festival taking place?
The 37th Palm Springs International Film Festival is scheduled from January 2 to 12, 2026, in Palm Springs, California.
What is the expected economic impact of the 2026 World Cup in California?
The 2026 World Cup is expected to generate over $1 billion in economic activity across California, with Los Angeles County and the Bay Area hosting hundreds of thousands of visitors.
What infrastructure projects are being undertaken to support tourism in California?
California is investing in significant infrastructure projects, including the LAX Automated People Mover, the Metro D Line Subway Extension, and the West Harbor – San Pedro development, to accommodate the influx of visitors in 2026.
What other events and attractions are planned in California for 2026?
Other events and attractions in California for 2026 include Frieze Los Angeles 2026, the U.S. Open Women’s Championship, and the San Diego Bay Food + Wine Festival.
Key Features of California’s 2026 Tourism Initiatives
| Event | Date | Location | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| 37th Palm Springs International Film Festival | January 2-12, 2026 | Palm Springs, CA | Showcasing 168 films from 72 countries, including 53 premieres and 44 Oscar submissions. |
| Coachella 2026 | April 10-19, 2026 | Indio, CA | Featuring headliners Sabrina Carpenter, Justin Bieber, Karol G, and Anyma; sold out within a week of announcement. |
| 2026 World Cup | Dates to be announced | Los Angeles and Bay Area, CA | Expected to generate over $1 billion in economic activity, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors. |
| 84th World Science Fiction Convention (LAcon V) | August 27-31, 2026 | Anaheim, CA | Featuring guests of honor such as Barbara Hambly, Ronald D. Moore, Colleen Doran, Dr. Anita Sengupta, Tim Kirk, Geri Sullivan, Stan Sakai, and Ursula Vernon as the toastmaster. |
| Frieze Los Angeles 2026 | February 26 – March 1, 2026 | Santa Monica, CA | Art fair featuring 95 international and local galleries within a custom-designed indoor-outdoor structure. |
| U.S. Open Women’s Championship | Dates to be announced | Pacific Palisades, CA | Bringing one of golf’s most prestigious tournaments to Los Angeles. |
| San Diego Bay Food + Wine Festival | Dates to be announced | San Diego, CA | One of the nation’s largest luxury culinary events, projected to draw over 14,000 attendees. |
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Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
