The Malibu Life

Labor Day Weekend in Malibu: What to Do, See & Explore in 2026

From the return of the Malibu Chili Cook-Off to live music, beach days and one of Pepperdine’s most meaningful traditions, here’s how to spend Labor Day Weekend in Malibu.

See Pepperdine’s Waves of Flags

One of Malibu’s most striking September traditions returns during Labor Day Weekend.

On Saturday, September 5, volunteers will begin raising nearly 3,000 flags across Pepperdine University’s Alumni Park for the annual Waves of Flags display. Each flag represents a life lost during the September 11 attacks, with additional national flags honoring victims from countries around the world.

This year is especially meaningful as it marks the 25th anniversary of 9/11. The flag raising takes place from 10 AM to 2 PM, and the display will remain up through September 18.

It is a beautiful and moving sight along PCH, and a meaningful stop to make during the holiday weekend.

Learn more about Waves of Flags

Catch the Malibu Coast Music Festival

The Malibu Coast Music Festival is happening throughout late summer, with two performances falling directly on Labor Day Weekend.

“The Fruits of Our Labors” will be performed Friday, September 4 and Monday, September 7 at 7:30 PM, featuring musicians from the Malibu Coast Music Festival in an intimate salon-style concert setting.

Reservations are required and seating is limited.

View Festival Details

Spend a Morning Around Malibu Lagoon & the Pier

For a slower Malibu morning, start with a walk around Malibu Lagoon then wander through the gardens and grounds of the historic Adamson House.

Malibu Lagoon is a great spot for nature trails, bird watching and beach access. From there, walk out onto the Malibu Pier, grab something to eat or stay for the ocean views.

To learn more about the Adamson House and Malibu’s local history,  read our guide here.

Head West for a Beach Day at Leo Carrillo

If the goal is one last real summer beach day, head a little farther west.

Leo Carrillo State Park is a great option for a picnic, beach walk or afternoon along the coast. For anyone bringing a dog along for the weekend, dogs are allowed in the park’s day-use areas and on North Beach.

Pack lunch, bring a beach chair and stay through the late afternoon.

Labor Day Tradition

And, Of Course, the Malibu Chili Cook-Off

We couldn’t make a Malibu Labor Day guide without mentioning it. The 43rd Annual Malibu Chili Cook-Off runs September 4 through September 7 with chili tastings, carnival rides, live music, local vendors and plenty more.

We already put together a full guide with everything you need to know, so we’ll keep this one short.

Read Our Malibu Chili Cook-Off Guide

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