Festival of Whales Returns March 6–8 with Cardboard Classic & Dinghy Dash at Dana Point Harbor Sponsored by Frank's Irvine Subaru!

Dana Point’s iconic Festival of Whales returns March 6–8, bringing three days of ocean-inspired fun, community connection, and family-friendly activities to Dana Point Harbor. This annual celebration honors the gray whale migration while highlighting the vibrant coastal culture that makes Dana Point such a special place to live, work, and visit.

One of the most anticipated events of the weekend is the 9th Annual Cardboard Classic & Dinghy Dash, hosted by Westwind Sailing at Baby Beach on March 7th from 8:00 AM to 12:30 PM. This high-energy, family-oriented event features a cardboard boat-building contest and race where teams design and race their own “vessels” made entirely of corrugated cardboard and duct tape. Armed with nothing but paddles and creativity, sea-hardy captains compete in age-division races for bragging rights, awards, and plenty of laughs.

The Cardboard Classic is free and open to the public, making it a perfect activity for spectators and families to enjoy together. In addition to the Dinghy Dash races, the morning includes the popular Buddy Barge exhibition, where local businesses, organizations, and community groups pre-build boats that are displayed for public viewing and voting before competing in their own race. The event also features food, music, awards, and a celebrity emcee to keep the energy high throughout the morning.

All proceeds from the Cardboard Classic benefit the Dana Point Aquatic Foundation, supporting educational boating programs for at-risk youth and boaters with special needs in our community. From handcrafted awards made by local Boys & Girls Club kids to goody bags and judged categories like “The Titanic,” the event is packed with heart, humor, and community spirit.

Whether you’re racing, cheering from the shore, or just soaking in the Festival of Whales atmosphere, this weekend is a celebration of creativity, compassion, and coastal connection. More information at www.festivalofwhales.com