In 2013, Laguna Dance celebrated Jodie Gates, who was honored with the "My Hero Project" award for her outstanding contributions to the Laguna Dance Festival.

This year featured a master class with Elena D’Amario of Parsons Dance, offering participants a unique opportunity to learn from a leading artist. Engaging pre-show talks included insights from Elizabeth Koeppen, Associate Artistic Director, as well as a discussion featuring Tom Mossbrucker, Artistic Director, and Jean-Philippe Malaty, Executive Director of Aspen Santa Fe Ballet. Participants also had the chance to take a master class with Jean-Philippe Malaty, further enriching the festival experience. 

The dance festival included performances by Parsons Dance Company and the Aspen Santa Fe Ballet at the Laguna Playhouse, pre-show lectures, free outdoor public performances, and site- specific dance installations in galleries throughout Laguna Beach. The festival also included three master classes at the Laguna Beach High School.