Events
Pet Photos With Santa
Dec. 7. Come celebrate the holidays with your four legged family members and get your photo taken with Santa. customers can come get a professional photo – digital or instant print – with Mr. Claus himself. By making a $20 donation, with all proceeds going directly to Make-A-Wish, this is a great way to kick off the holidays with your furry friends. Sunday, from 11 a.m.-3 p.m.Pet Evolution, 2651 Aliso Creek Rd, Suite A, Aliso Viejo. More Information
Boat Rides With Santa
Dec. 6-7. Take a boat ride with Santa this holiday season around Dana Point Harbor. Tickets are $5 per person and all proceeds will benefit the Soroptimist of Capistrano Bay. Reservations are required & there is 6 person per reservation limit. You MUST Check-in 10 Minutes before your scheduled trip at Dock # 1 Times can be booked here. 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point. More Information
Fullerton Winter Market
Dec. 6. Complete with vendors, photo opportunities with Santa Claus, activities, a beer garden for the adults, holiday music performances, food vendors, and a cafe providing indoor amenities during the market, this family-friendly and free event is a great kick off to the holiday season celebrating gift giving and community. Saturday, 2-6 p.m. 301 N. Pomona Ave, Fullerton. More Information
Food + Drink
ILYA San Clemente Opens
Now Open. Acclaimed chef and restaurateur Charbel Hayek brings his signature Mediterranean artistry to San Clemente with the debut of ILYA. Known for his dynamic, modern take on Mediterranean cuisine at Los Angeles favorites Ladyhawk and Laya – and for his celebrated appearances on Top Chef – Hayek blends the relaxed elegance of Orange County with the sun-drenched flavors of the Mediterranean coast. Hours vary. 1502 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente. More Information
Coastal Cowboy Unveils A Full Holiday Transformation
Now Celebrating. San Clemente’s newest California-meets-cowboy dining spot, has officially transformed its restaurant into a vibrant winter wonderland for the entire month of December. Guests can enjoy the festive atmosphere while indulging in Coastal Cowboy’s signature all-natural, seed-oil free cooking. Open for lunch and dinner daily from 11 a.m.-9 p.m., along with a brand new weekend brunch beginning at 10 am Saturdays & Sundays. 214 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente. More Information
Tamale Festival
Dec. 6. The event features live entertainment on three stages, tamales, food vendors, retail vendors, informational booths, children’s play activities, a cantina, performances from local dance studios, holiday tree lighting, and a Holiday Firework show. Join in for the 12th Annual La Habra Tamale Festival and be a part of the local history. Saturday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. La Habra. Location and More Information
Hilton Anaheim Debuts Holiday Cocktails at Poppy’s Lounge
Now Serving. For the holidays, Poppy’s Lounge is rolling out a seasonal cocktail menu from now through year’s end, featuring festive pours like the Holiday 75 with Bombay Sapphire and Moët; a Raspberry Espresso Martini with Mijenta Reposado and Chambord; the Fa La La Fizz built on Campari, cranberry, and prosecco; a Honey Pumpkin Whiskey Smash with Knob Creek and Disaronno; and a Caramel Apple-tini with Grey Goose and cranberry. Hours vary. 777 W Convention Way Anaheim. hilton.com
Arts + Culture
A Nutcracker like no other!
Starts Dec. 11. Celebrating its 10th spectacular season at Segerstrom Center for the Arts, ABT’s The Nutcracker has wowed both audiences and critics alike. The LA Times raves “A Christmas miracle!” and the OC Register calls it “Jaw-droppingly gorgeous, a visual feast!” Experience the joy and wonder of this critically acclaimed production! Dec 11 – 21 only, at Segerstrom Center for the Arts. 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787. scfta.org
Scrooge! The Musical
Now Showing. Scrooge! The Musical is a heartwarming and festive adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic novella A Christmas Carol, featuring music, lyrics, and book by Leslie Bricusse. Scrooge! The Musical blends humor, drama, and uplifting messages in a celebration of redemption and the true meaning of Christmas. Wonderful for the entire family, ages 4 and up. Bette Aitken Theater Arts Center, 5522 E. La Palma Ave., Anaheim. Get Tickets Now
45th Anniversary of A Christmas Carol
Now Showing. Whether it’s your first time or a cherished tradition, this timeless classic is sure to rekindle your holiday spirit. Gather your loved ones and celebrate the season with festive music, joyful dancing and the heartwarming story of one magical, life-changing night in the life of Ebenezer Scrooge. Emmes/Benson Theatre Center, 655 Town Center Drive, PO Box 2197, Costa Mesa. Showtimes and More Information
Photo credits: ILYA courtesy of Moxxe PR. Coastal Cowboy courtesy of Wales Communications. All other images are courtesy of the businesses and venues.
