San Clemente Carnival Colossal Returns October 8–11, 2026
Looking for things to do in San Clemente this weekend? The San Clemente Carnival Colossal is back October 8–11, 2026, bringing four days of carnival rides, classic games, food, live music and family-friendly fun to Vista Hermosa Sport Park.
Hosted by the Friends of San Clemente Beaches, Parks & Recreation Foundation, Carnival Colossal is more than just a fun local event. It is also the organization’s largest fundraiser of the year, with proceeds supporting San Clemente beaches, parks, playgrounds and youth recreation programs.
San Clemente Carnival 2026: Quick Details
Event: Carnival Colossal
Dates: Thursday, October 8 through Sunday, October 11, 2026
Location: Vista Hermosa Sport Park
Address: 987 Avenida Vista Hermosa, San Clemente, CA
Admission: Free
Ride Tickets: Available at the event
The carnival runs for four days, making it an easy addition to a San Clemente weekend itinerary for families, friends and local residents.
San Clemente Carnival Hours
Here is the 2026 Carnival Colossal schedule:
- Thursday, October 8: 5:00 PM–10:00 PM
- Friday, October 9: 5:00 PM–11:00 PM
- Saturday, October 10: 2:00 PM–10:00 PM
- Sunday, October 11: 2:00 PM–10:00 PM
There is also a sensory-friendly hour on Thursday from 4:00–5:00 PM, featuring modified sound and lighting for guests with special needs and younger children before the carnival officially opens for the evening.
What to Expect at Carnival Colossal
Carnival Colossal has something for a wide range of ages and interests.
Carnival Rides
The midway will feature rides including the Gravitron, Super Slide and bumper cars, along with additional carnival attractions.
Carnival Games
Classic carnival games and prize booths will be available throughout the event. If you're looking for a fun activity for the kids, the games are a big part of the Carnival Colossal experience.
Food Trucks
Hungry after riding the attractions? Food trucks will be at the carnival all four days, offering plenty of options for grabbing something to eat while enjoying the event.
Live Music
Live bands will perform on Saturday and Sunday, giving the weekend portion of the carnival an added community-event atmosphere.
Beer Garden
Adults can enjoy the weekend beer garden, which will be open Saturday and Sunday afternoons. The official event page lists Oktoberfest pours from Los Molinos Beer.
Carnival Colossal Is Free to Attend
One of the best things about Carnival Colossal is that admission is free. Visitors only need to purchase tickets for the rides they want to enjoy.
Full-priced ride tickets will be available for purchase at the carnival, and the organizers also note that last year's tickets will be accepted.
Why Carnival Colossal Matters to San Clemente
Carnival Colossal is one of the community's signature fundraising events.
According to the Friends of San Clemente, proceeds from the carnival go back into San Clemente's beaches, parks, playgrounds and youth recreation programs. The organization is a local 501(c)(3) nonprofit focused on supporting the city's beaches, parks, recreation facilities, youth programs and community events.
That means attending the carnival is not only a fun way to spend an afternoon or evening in San Clemente—it also helps support amenities and programs that make the community special.
Things to Do in San Clemente This Weekend
If you're searching for San Clemente events this weekend, Carnival Colossal is a great option to add to your plans.
San Clemente is known for its beaches, pier, coastal trails, parks and community events, and Carnival Colossal brings a different type of entertainment to the city. Whether you're taking the kids to ride the midway, meeting friends for food and music, or simply checking out a local community event, there is plenty to enjoy.
Event location:
Vista Hermosa Sport Park
987 Avenida Vista Hermosa
San Clemente, CA
Frequently Asked Questions About the San Clemente Carnival
When is the San Clemente Carnival in 2026?
Carnival Colossal takes place Thursday, October 8 through Sunday, October 11, 2026, at Vista Hermosa Sport Park in San Clemente.
Where is Carnival Colossal in San Clemente?
The carnival is held at Vista Hermosa Sport Park, 987 Avenida Vista Hermosa, San Clemente, California.
Is the San Clemente Carnival free?
Yes. Admission to Carnival Colossal is free. Ride tickets are sold separately at the event.
What time does the San Clemente Carnival open?
Thursday and Friday begin at 5:00 PM, while Saturday and Sunday begin at 2:00 PM. Thursday also features a sensory-friendly hour from 4:00–5:00 PM.
Are there rides at the San Clemente Carnival?
Yes. Carnival Colossal features carnival rides including the Gravitron, Super Slide and bumper cars, along with the full midway.
Is there food at Carnival Colossal?
Yes. Food trucks will be available all four days of the carnival.
Is there live music?
Yes. Live bands are scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, along with a weekend beer garden.
Enjoy One of San Clemente's Local Community Events
If you live in San Clemente or are visiting for the weekend, Carnival Colossal is a great way to enjoy the community while supporting local parks, beaches and recreation programs.
For the most current information, including any schedule or ticket updates, check the official Friends of San Clemente event page before heading to the carnival.
Planning to explore more of San Clemente? Check out our other local guides and community events for ideas on things to do, places to visit and ways to enjoy life in San Clemente and throughout South Orange County.