Events
Newport Beach Boat Parade
Through Dec. 22. 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. Showtimes and more information, such as parking details, can be found at christmasparadeboats.com
Christmas Cooking Decorating at Lido House
Dec. 21-22. Lido House presents a spirited afternoon of Holiday Cookie Decorating. Guests will enjoy decorating an array of artisanal, festive sugar cookies, with additional surprises and activities throughout the afternoon. It’s an enchanting way to celebrate the season with your loved ones. Time slots are available every 1.5 hours. Reservations can be made online. 3300 Newport Blvd., Newport Beach. More Information
Christmas Nights at Casa
Through Dec. 20. Celebrate Christmas at Casa Romantica’s annual nighttime event with thousands of twinkling holiday lights and festively decorated property and gardens. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a romantic moment with a special someone or make lasting memories with your family, there’s something for everyone. 5 p.m. – 7 p.m. 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente. 949.498.2139. More Information
The Lido Theater’s 12 Days of Christmas Movies
Through Dec. 23. The Lido Theater presents its 12 Days of Christmas Movies series featuring holiday classics like Elf, The Santa Clause, Home Alone and It’s a Wonderful Life. Set in Newport Beach’s historic, recently restored 1930s venue, the event offers a festive atmosphere complete with seasonal concessions such as hot cocoa, eggnog, popcorn and candy. Next showing is How the Grinch Stole Christmas, this Thursday, 6:30-8:15 p.m. 3459 Via Lido, Newport Beach. thelidotheater.com
Food + Drink
Calaca Mamas Cantina Launches ‘Happiest Hour’ Menu
Now Available. Calaca Mamas Cantina, Anaheim’s Day of the Dead-inspired eatery, is bringing the fiesta with an all-new Happy Hour. Available exclusively at the bar and on the patio daily, the ‘Happiest Hour’ features a variety of new small plates and drinks, this is a great way to get some more “happy” in your day. Programming runs Monday through Friday from 11 a.m.-4 p.m., and weekends from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 1550 S. Harbor Blvd., Anaheim.
Set off with Milligram for the Newport Christmas Boat Parade
Now Available. This year, let Milligram Coffee and Kitchen bring luxury to your parade experience with their beautifully curated food boxes. From elegant charcuterie spreads to decadent desserts, place your order 24 hours in advance with one of their team members or online here, and enjoy the boat parade in style and deliciousness. The Newport Christmas parade starts 6:30 p.m. every evening until December 22. 234 E. 17th Street, Suite 107, Costa Mesa. More Information
Chef’s Dinner at Social Kitchen + Craft Bar
Dec. 19. Thursdays are the new Friday at Social Kitchen + Craft Bar. Every Thursday, guests can enjoy a prix-fixe dinner for just $45 AND half-off all wines by the bottle and glass. Executive Chef Jeff Boullt has prepared a four-course dinner, with various options for guests to indulge in all night and come hungry. Reservations can be made online. Hours vary. 512 W. 19th St., Costa Mesa. More Information
The Mixing Glass’ Famous Eggnog Returns
Available Now. It’s that time of year again where The Mixing Glass and Market are excited to announce that their popular housemade eggnog is back. Their eggnog is non-alcoholic, pasteurized, and made with quality ingredients like organic Clover cream and organic eggs from a local farm. You can use it as a mixer or enjoy it on its own. You’ll never go back once you go fresh with eggnog from Mixing Glass. 1500 Adams Ave, 104a, Costa Mesa. More Information
Arts + Culture
There’s no present like the Future!
Starts Dec. 26. Back to the Future, the beloved, cinematic classic is now a Broadway musical with its destination set for Costa Mesa next week! Enjoy all your favorite moments live in this jaw-dropping spectacle adapted for the stage by the iconic film’s creators Bob Gale and Robert Zemeckis! Two weeks only, Dec 26 – Jan 5, only at Segerstrom Center for the Arts. Get your tickets yesterday! 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa. 714.556.8784. scfta.org
Winter Fantasy Concludes
Ends Dec. 22. Experience the final days of the magic of the Sawdust Art Festival’s Winter Fantasy, where creativity illuminates a wonderland of cheer. The village becomes a festive gathering filled with music, performers, and surprises around every corner. Stroll the paths and shop from 180+ local artists who’ve transformed joy into treasures, giving you the chance to gift something extraordinary. Hours vary. 935 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach. More Information
The Nutcracker Presented by Festival Ballet Theatre
Through Christmas Eve. A cherished holiday classic perfect for all ages, “The Nutcracker” is a beloved tradition. Festival Ballet Theatre’s breathtaking production features superb, colorful scenery and dazzling costumes, which make this age-old tradition sparkle like new. Be swept away by Tchaikovsky’s iconic score as the Sugar Plum Fairy, our heroine, Clara, and a cast of hundreds take you on a magical journey to mystical lands. Showtimes vary. 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine. Tickets and More Information
Photo credits: Lido House and SOCIAL courtesy of Outshine PR.Calaca Mamas courtesy of Ajenda PR. All other images are courtesy of the businesses and venues.
