Mendocino Whale Festival

Whale Fest is making a splash in Mendocino the weekend of March 6–8, 2026—and like the migrating leviathans we adore, this year’s celebration is bigger, bolder, and breaching with fun.

Even better, 2026 marks the 50th anniversary of the legendary Whale War, when Mendocino proudly stood up for its whales—so expect an extra dose of fin-flipping pride in the air.

The weekend lineup includes a Chowder Tasting Competition, Wine Walk, trolley rides, guided whale talks and walks, whale-themed activities and education, family-friendly fun, and plenty more to keep you happily occupied between whale sightings.

Is there a better time to visit Mendocino? We’ll wait while you think about it.

And if March 6–8, 2026 doesn’t fit your migration schedule, no worries—the whales cruise by all winter long. Visit anytime through April to catch the awe-inspiring migration of Fort Bragg’s favorite cetaceans. After all, the whales don’t check calendars—and neither should you.