Events
115th Annual Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade
Through Dec. 17. An Orange County holiday tradition returns. Elaborate Christmas light displays of bayfront estates with their Ring Of Lights competition and one of the largest decorated boat parades in the country. 100 beautifully decorated yachts and boats of all sizes will once again light up Newport Beach nightly from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Parking can be found at Marina Park, 1600 W Balboa Blvd, Newport Beach. christmasparadeboats.com
Tamalfest
Dec. 16. Tamalfest is an annual family-friendly food festival that curates local food, businesses, and live entertainment for an unforgettable night. The 4th Annual DTSA Tamalfest will showcase 15 local restaurants with wonderful food, live music, photo ops, kids activities, and much, much more. Tickets can be found here. Saturday, 3 p.m.-10 p.m. West 4th Street, Santa Ana. dtsafeelgoodevents.com
DesignerCon
Dec. 15-17. The annual DesignerCon at the Anaheim Convention Center, is a key event for those interested in toys, art and unique collectibles featuring over 700 vendors displaying a wide range of items. This year, actor and musician Corey Feldman will be there, promoting a special Corey Feldman x FUNKO Pop! based on his music video. A major highlight is the Hollywood 100 Show, where 100 artists present their take on the Hollywood sign. Friday, 5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, 10 a.m. 8800 W Katella Ave., Anaheim. Get Tickets Now
Holidays at the Harbor
Now Open. Dana Point Harbor Partners is spreading holiday cheer by hosting the annual holiday light display consisting of over 700,000 lights. Themed, lighted exhibits throughout the Harbor include a giant whale sculpture, lighted palm trees, giant ornaments, the popular “Merry Kiss Me” arch and much more. Santa will be available for photos on the 15th. Hours vary. 34571 Golden Lantern Street, Dana Point. danapointharbor.com
The Birdhouse Tees Off
Dec. 15. A new, luxurious way to perfect your golf game is set to open this weekend. Play over 500 courses worldwide in luxurious private suits, enjoy casual games with friends, or just come and practice your drive. This is a new golf experience unlike anything around and should not be missed. Schedule your times today and come enjoy. Starts Friday at 1 p.m. 23521 Ridge Route Dr, Suite B, Laguna Hills. thebirdhousegolf.com
Food + Drink
Sweetgreen Huntington Beach Opens
Now Open. Sweetgreen, a mission-driven brand known for its high-quality ingredients and a chef-crafted menu of core and seasonal salads, bowls, plates and sides, has built an extensive network of trusted local farm partners throughout Southern California. The new location also features groundbreaking automated technology one must see to believe. Monday-Wednesday, 10:30 a.m-9 p.m. Thursday-Sunday, 10:30 a.m.-10 p.m. 18681 Main Street, Huntington Beach. sweetgreen.com
Oliver’s Trattoria Opens
Now Open. Sister location to the Michelin Bib Gourmand 2021 recipient restaurant, Oliver’s Osteria, is now open. This new restaurant promises to transport guests to Italy with the same quality ingredients and astounding flavors that have made the original Laguna Beach location so adored. Currently open for dinner service only. Sunday-Thursday, 11:30 a.m.- 9 p.m. Friday-Saturday, 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m. 6511 Quail Hill Street, Irvine. oliverstrattoria.com
Tamale Fest Afterparty
Dec. 16. What better way to celebrate Tamalfest than with a massive, (unofficial) afterparty. Come to Native Son and enjoy a live DJ set, and cocktail specials, including Nixta Licor de Elote and Abasolo Mexican Whisky. Oh, and of course, tamales. Come dance the night away and keep the holiday party vibes going at this wonderful event. Saturday 8 p.m. to midnight. 305 East 4th Street, Sana Ana. nativesonbar.com
Everywhere’s Winter Wonderland
Dec. 16. Everywhere Beer Co. are getting all of their friends together to bring a little holiday twinkle to Orange. This weekend, come for a holiday spectacular, including 15 tons of snow for sledding and playing, ugly sweater contests, exclusive brews, and more. It’s all capped off by an outdoor screening of Jingle All The Way, presented by their friends at The Frida Cinema. Saturday, at 11 a.m. 1501 W. Orangewood Ave, Orange. everywherebeer.com
Arts + Culture
Dr. Seuss’ Classic Live at Segerstrom
Starts Dec. 19. Celebrate the true meaning of Christmas when this heart-warming holiday tale comes to life at Segerstrom Center for the Arts! Be transported to the whimsical world of Whoville with the hit songs “You’re A Mean One, Mr. Grinch” and “Welcome Christmas.” 10 shows only, Dec 19 – 24. 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787. scfta.org
Art Workshop: Figure Drawing
Dec. 15. Taking inspiration from the exhibition Breaking the Rules: Paul Wonner and Theophilus Brown, join Peter Zokosky, Chair of MFA Drawing + Painting at LCAD, for a figure drawing workshop. Learn the basics of how to draw the human form with a live model. Supplies are included with the purchase of a ticket. Please note: This workshop will feature a live nude model. All attendees must be 18 years or older. 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. 307 Cliff Drive, Laguna Beach. lagunaartmuseum.org
The Holiday Classic Concludes
Through Dec. 17. Make your season merrier with The Nutcracker. Featuring the superstar dancers of American Ballet Theatre and live music by Pacific Symphony, experience this timeless masterpiece that leaves audiences with warm feelings of joy, cheer and holiday magic. The show runs through the 17th only at Segerstrom Center for the Arts. 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787. scfta.org
Photo credits: All other images are courtesy of the businesses and venues.
