Events
Bier Fest at Old World
Aug. 15-16. The special day event is packed with a variety of beers, authentic German delights, Live German Bands and an MC to keep the party going. Bier, Food & Live Music with MARKO the One Man Band. Get your taste buds ready for a special beer tasting. Saturday-Sunday, 12-5 p.m. Old World Huntington Beach, 7561 Center Ave., Huntington Beach. More Information
Final Days of The OC Fair
Ends Aug. 16. The final days of the Orange County Fair are here. Equal parts nostalgic and over-the-top, it’s where carnival rides tower over livestock barns, local artisans share space with deep-fried culinary experiments, and live concerts carry on well after sunset. The OC Fair captures the carefree spirit of summer. Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday, 11 a.m.–11 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m.–midnight. OC Fair & Event Center, 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa. More Information
New Animals at Santa Ana Zoo
Exhibits Open Now. The Santa Ana Zoo has added several new reptiles to its collection, including Chinese alligators, geckos and pythons. The newcomers give visitors a chance to get a closer look at a variety of reptiles while expanding the zoo’s animal offerings. The new animals also highlight the diversity of reptile species and offer an opportunity to learn more about their unique behaviors, habitats and characteristics. 1801 E Chestnut Ave, Santa Ana. More Information
Patriotic Surrey Nights Rides
Now Open. Wheel Fun Rentals marks America’s 250th anniversary with red, white and blue LED-illuminated Surrey rides along the Huntington Beach waterfront. The one-hour rentals begin at sunset and continue through Labor Day weekend, with single Surreys accommodating up to three riders and two small children and doubles seating up to six riders and two small children. Friday–Sunday, sunset–10 p.m.; final rental departs at 9 p.m. $35–$45. Waterfront Adventures on the Strand, 21351 Pacific Coast Highway, Huntington Beach. wheelfunrentals.com
Food + Drink
Unsung Anaheim Final Days
Pouring Through Aug. 16. As they enter their 10-year anniversary, Unsung Brewing, one of Orange County’s most celebrated breweries, is closing their Anaheim taproom this weekend. They are building a new location that fans can keep their eyes peeled for more information on, but in the meantime, come raise a glass and celebrate 10 great years of Unsung in Anaheim. Hours vary. 500 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim. More Information
Peak of Summer Jam Band at Buzz’s
Aug. 14. Ahba Costa Mesa is known for many things – great burgers, drinks, vibes, and more, but what many forget about is the great rooftop bar that sits jsut up the stairs: Buzz’s. Come to Ahba this Friday at The Camp, and head up the stairs for a star-filled sky surrounded by great drinks, people, and music, as local band Turbulence takes to the stage from 7-10 p.m. 2937 Bristol street, Costa Mesa. More Information
Alpine Wine Week at Mayfield
Through Aug. 16. Mayfield boasts one of the most unique wine club offerings in Orange County, consistently featuring non-traditional wines and wine regions. This week through Sunday they are showcasing Alpine wines to both members, and non-members alike. Members can taste the wines at no cost, but for those curious about these wines and the club itself, for only $26 you can taste all four selections from these truly unique and inventive wines. Hours vary. 31761 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. More Information
Arts + Culture
Celebrating One Year of GW Contemporary
Now Showing. GW Contemporary marks its first anniversary with Where We Meet, bringing together artists who shaped the gallery’s inaugural year alongside emerging voices representing its future. Featuring artists from Australia, Europe and across the U.S., the exhibition spans painting, sculpture, ceramics, textiles and installation. The show explores the relationships, conversations and shared artistic sensibilities that continue to define the gallery’s program, celebrating its first year while looking ahead to what comes next. 305 N Coast Hwy Unit B, Laguna Beach. More Information
Seaside Sound Bath
Aug. 15. Reconnect with your senses and experience art as a space for reflection, awareness and renewal. Join Crystal Tones Sound Temple Facilitator Rana Nader in the museum gallery as she opens portals of light in a gentle, regulating sound bath and guided meditation. Please bring a mat and blanket. Members: $20, Non-members: $25. 10 a.m. – 11 a.m. 307 Cliff Drive, Laguna Beach. More Information
Bowers Museum Quilt Fair
Aug. 16. A vibrant celebration of textile art that brings together stunning handmade quilts, talented artisans, and a welcoming community of craft enthusiasts. Guests can explore a variety of unique vendors offering handmade goods, fabrics, and creative supplies, catch our Speaker Series featuring quilt professionals on topics like genealogy, appraisals, and quilt care, and enjoy story time for kids in the galleries—making it a fun outing for the whole family. 2002 North Main Street, Santa Ana. More Information
Photo credits: All other images are courtesy of the businesses and venues.
