Labor Day Weekend: Fiesta Hermosa 2014

Alexander Volz

Fiesta Hermosa, the largest arts and crafts fair in Southern California, will take place from August 30th to September 1st in downtown Hermosa Beach. The Fiesta, which is celebrated every Memorial and Labor Day weekend, is considered a kick-off for holiday shopping to score beautiful gifts that are sure to please those with an appreciation for fine art creations, as well as the more homespun crafts. Attendees enjoy the talents of over 300 artisans, including painters, jewelry makers, photographers, sculptors and hand crafters. Fiesta Hermosa also hosts a juried art competition as part of the event, which attracts some of the area’s finest artists.

The Fiesta will also offer two stages – one on the pier and one in the beer and wine garden – for Led Zeppelin, the Eagles, Jimi Hendrix, Phil Collins, Fleetwood Mac, and Crosby Stills Nash & Young tribute bands.

The Fiesta, which is considered a must attend event for local Southern California foodies, proudly promotes eighteen ethnic food varieties and also offers traditional carnival favorites such as cotton candy, caramel apples, fresh squeezed lemonade, and funnel cakes. Other beloved treats include handmade guacamole, crepes, and shaved ice. Famous for its food vendors, the Fiesta also features the Hermosa Beach Lifeguards’ renowned fish tacos. Hermosa Beach’s pier is lined with bars and restaurants, which tend to get slammed when the festival ends.

There is a kid-free, charity beer & wine garden which is served by community organizations and non-profit volunteers. Proceeds return to the attending organizations such as the Rotary, Kiwanis, HB Education Foundation, and other civic organizations, which are then expect to serve the Hermosa Beach community in continued charity efforts. It is the venue for one of the music stages so expect crowds.

With thousands of people in attendance, we suggest heading to www.fiestahermosa.net to plan ahead. Parking and shuttles are provided, though many prefer to park in neighboring Manhattan or Redondo Beach and biking down the strand to the festival.

Fiesta Hermosa will take place August 30, 31, and September 01, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. in downtown Hermosa Beach.