Huntington Beach, the original Surf City USA®, is the quintessential Southern California getaway and a magnet for surfers and four-legged travellers. The Surf City Surf Dog, held annually in September, attracts both with its world-famous dog surfing competition and family-friendly activities that include pet adoptions, canine play zones, vendor booths, food trucks and plenty of photo ops. The Pacific Air Show returns Sept. 30–Oct. 2, featuring the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, with the Afterburner Music Festival added for the first time in the event’s six-year history. From mid- September through October, Old World Village beckons those who have a fondness for lederhosen and dirndls to participate in one of Orange County’s oldest and largest Oktoberfest celebrations. Since 1977, this Bavarian-style village has been the backdrop for authentic German fare and was voted as having the “Best Bratwurst” in the state. There’s also plenty of German bier, oompah bands, competitions — such as the stein-holding contest — and more.
