Laguna LAFs and Cheers at the First Annual Laguna Achievement Festival
In a town known for its deep roots in creativity, community, and a little bit of mischief, we at KXFM Radio were beyond thrilled to host the Laguna Achievement Festival (LAF Awards). This wasn’t just another event—we rolled out the red-carpet to honor the people, businesses, and cultural icons who make Laguna Beach the magical place we all know and love.
A Night to Remember
The LAF Awards were nothing short of spectacular. From the moment guests stepped onto the red carpet, the energy was electric. The night was a seamless blend of nostalgia and fresh energy—Laguna’s legendary pioneers rubbing elbows with its rising stars, all in an atmosphere that was part Hollywood glam, part local block party.
Prior to the ceremony, attendees mingled over delicious bites from AhbA and Rasta Taco with a cocktail…or two in hand.
Celebrating Laguna’s Best
After corralling our guests inside, Rita Rudner opened the ceremony with a monologue that had everyone roaring with laughter. The entertainment continued with performances throughout the evening by JJ & The Habibis, Molly Bergman and Oriana Geis-Falla from Opera Laguna.
Shout out to Jorg Dubin, who masterfully designed and created the gaping mouth “Laffy” trophies. Twenty-five categories were up for grabs, each celebrating a different facet of Laguna Beach. All the nominees were deserving of a Laffy, but the locals cast their votes, and the winners were decided as follows:
🏆 Best Coffee Spot: Laguna Coffee Co.
🏆 Best Breakfast: Coyote Grill
🏆 Best Swanky Joint: The Drake Laguna Beach
🏆 Hippest Hang: Brussels Bistro
🏆 Best Photographer: Doug Miller
🏆 Fav Locals Hang: Adolfo’s
🏆 Best Libation Station: Starfish
🏆 Best Fast & Reasonable Bite: La Sirena
🏆 Best Venue: Rivian Theater
🏆 Best Art Gallery: Wyland Galleries
🏆 Best 2D Artist: Andrew Meyer
🏆 Best 3D Artist: Casey Parlette
🏆 Best Retail Store: Bluebird Mercantile
🏆 Best Event: Coast Film Festival
🏆 Best Live Music Venue: Sandpiper
🏆 Best Working Band: Great North Special
🏆 Best Local Band: 133 Band
🏆 Best Female Solo Artist: Molly Bergman
🏆 Best Male Solo Artist: Shawn Jones
🏆 Best Male Surfer: Hans Hagen
🏆 Best Female Surfer: Tess Booth
🏆 Best Mountain Biker: Hans Rey
🏆 Best Late Night Dining: Jack in the Box
🏆 Legacy Award: Beth & Steve Wood
Each winner and nominee represented a piece of what makes Laguna Beach so special—a blend of history, artistry, and that undeniable Laguna ~vibe~.
More Than an Awards Show
A special thank you to Steve and Beth Wood, who not only helped produce the event, but also provided a memorable musical touch to close the ceremony. As we wrapped, guests made their way upstairs to enjoy treats from Summer Tarango’s Mercado and music by DJ Chayu. But the party didn’t stop there—Steve “The Ruckus” kept the beats going at Laguna Beer Co. next door, ensuring the festivities carried on well into the night.
It was a night that reminded us why community radio matters—because we value what makes this town unique and celebrate it. Just seven months ago, we relaunched this station with the help of our incredible jocks and modest staff, and seeing the LAF Awards come to life was a powerful reflection of just how spirited our community is.
If the energy of this inaugural effort is any indication, next year’s event will be even bigger. For those who missed out, don’t worry—you can still be part of the movement. Support KXFM Radio: Tune in, Turn On and throw us some loose change so we can keep the good times rolling. This is just the beginning of something special. The spirit of Laguna Beach is in full revival.