Tucked beneath towering eucalyptus trees in Laguna Beach Canyon, the Sawdust Art Festival is celebrating a major milestone this summer: 60 years of art, community, and creative spirit. Now open through September 6, the beloved festival continues to draw families, art lovers, and curious visitors looking for an experience that feels both vibrant and deeply rooted in local culture.
What began in 1965 as a small gathering of independent artists has grown into one of Southern California’s most cherished creative traditions. Despite its evolution, Sawdust has held tightly to its founding philosophy: art should be accessible, personal, and created by the very people sharing it.
Today, more than 180 local artists fill the open-air grounds with handcrafted works spanning painting, ceramics, jewelry, glass, sculpture, and more. Visitors can stroll winding paths, meet artists in their booths, and watch live demonstrations that bring each piece to life. It is this direct connection—artist to visitor—that continues to set Sawdust apart.
For families, the festival offers an especially welcoming environment. Kids can engage with art in a hands-on way, sparking creativity beyond the classroom, while parents appreciate the relaxed, outdoor setting. The festival’s casual layout makes it easy to explore at your own pace, whether stopping to listen to live music or pausing for a quick creative activity.
Even four-legged family members are part of the experience. With its open-air design and laid-back atmosphere, Sawdust is a comfortable outing for those who enjoy bringing their pets along for the day, making it a true reflection of Laguna Beach’s lifestyle.
Beyond the art, the festival has expanded its offerings this year to include an elevated culinary lineup. Guests can enjoy everything from coastal-inspired dishes and sushi to Wagyu burgers and nostalgic soft serve. Local favorite Taco Loco also joins the mix, adding to the distinctly community-driven feel of the event.
Despite its growth, Sawdust remains deeply connected to its roots. Long-time artists, including founding members, still play an active role in shaping the festival’s identity. That continuity is part of what makes the experience feel so authentic, visitors are not just viewing art, but stepping into a living creative legacy.
“This milestone is a celebration of the artists and community members who have shaped Sawdust over the past 60 years,” says General Manager Thomas Hartmann. “It’s still a place where guests can connect directly with artists and experience the creative energy that defines Laguna Beach.”
That energy extends beyond the summer months. Through year-round classes, workshops, and its Sawdust Enrichment Fund, the organization continues to support arts education and provide opportunities for local students and underserved communities.
Whether it is a spontaneous afternoon outing or a planned family tradition, the Sawdust Art Festival offers something increasingly rare: a chance to slow down, connect, and experience creativity together. Six decades in, it remains not just an event, but a meaningful part of Laguna Beach’s cultural heartbeat.