What to Do Today in Santa Ana

Updated Thursday, April 9, 2026

Santa Ana on April 9, 2026, appears to have a vibrant mix of activities ranging from live music and community events to dining and exploring local parks. There are opportunities for both daytime and evening entertainment, with a focus on community engagement and cultural experiences.

1. Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Agency Hiring Fair

The City of Santa Ana's PRCSA is hosting an in-person hiring fair for seasonal positions such as Program Leader, Lifeguard, Senior Lifeguard, and Pool Manager.

Jerome Recreation Center and Pool, 726 S. Center St.

1:00pm - 5:30pm

2. RECREAuto at Santiago Park

The recreation van is bringing the excitement of Santa Ana's community centers to Santiago Park with art, games, sports, and fun activities.

Santiago Park

4:30pm - 6:30pm

3. Police Oversight Commission Meeting

The Police Oversight Commission meets to discuss community matters.

City Council Chambers, 22 Civic Center Plaza, Santa Ana, CA 92701

5:00pm - 7:00pm

4. Orbit Culture - Death Above Life North American Tour

Live concert featuring Orbit Culture with Ov Sulfur and Atlas.

The Observatory, 3503 S. Harbor Blvd.

6:30 PM

5. Job Search Strategies Workshop

Workshop highlighting how job hunting will shift to the digital world. The workshop will cover the importance of optimizing resumes for automated tracking systems. Attendees will explore practical strategies within CalJOBS.

Santa Ana WORK Center

10:00am - 11:00am

6. Black Bear Diner

Enjoy a relaxing meal at Black Bear Diner, known for its family-friendly atmosphere and classic diner fare. Open all day.

Black Bear Diner in Santa Ana

6:00am - 10:00pm

7. Lola Gaspar

Enjoy cocktails and Mexican cuisine at Lola Gaspar, a cocktail bar and taqueria in downtown Santa Ana's historic Santora Building.

Lola Gaspar, Santora Building, Downtown Santa Ana

Open Daily

8. Olive Garden Lunch or Dinner

Enjoy Italian-American cuisine for lunch or dinner at Olive Garden near MainPlace Mall.

Olive Garden, near I-5 & CA-22 across from the Main Place Mall

Lunch: 11:00AM - 3:00PM, Dinner: 3:00PM - 10:00PM

9. Explore Santa Ana's Parks

Visit one of Santa Ana's many parks for outdoor recreation and relaxation. Options include Adams Park, Centennial Park, and El Salvador Park.

Various Parks in Santa Ana

Daytime

10. MainPlace Mall Shopping

Shop at various stores at MainPlace Mall, including Hot Topic, Kay Jewelers, JCPenney, and H&M.

MainPlace Mall, 2800 N Main St, Santa Ana, CA 92705

Mall Hours

11. Bowers Museum Visit

Explore art and artifacts from cultures around the world at the Bowers Museum.

Bowers Museum, 2002 N. Main St.

10 AM - 4 PM

12. Klub Terminal at La Santa

Experience electronic music at Klub Terminal, a 21-and-over event featuring DJs and immersive visuals.

La Santa, 220 E 3rd Street, Santa Ana, CA 92701

9:00 pm

13. Farmer's Market at OC Fair & Event Center

Shop for fresh produce and local goods.

Lot D, OC Fair & Event Center

Morning/Afternoon

14. Norms Restaurants

Enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner and anything in between all day and all night.

102 E. 17th St. Santa Ana CA 92706

Open 24/7

15. Wilderness Club: Enhanced Whale Watching

Visit the iconic Crystal Cove Marine Protected Area for a two-hour, participant-led research cruise.

Roosevelt Walker Community Center

8:00am - 1:15pm

16. Senior Spring Celebration

Welcome Spring with a cheerful celebration at the Santa Ana Senior Center! Celebrate the season with games, dancing, giveaways, and the opportunity to connect and make new friends with fellow seniors.

Santa Ana Senior Center

Various

Read the full Santa Ana city guide