Orange County

Weekend roundup

March 6-9

Events

Final Days of OC Restaurant Week

Through March 8. Who doesn’t love delicious food & great deals? Orange County Restaurant Week – the largest celebration of the Orange County dining scene all year long – finishes its 2025 celebration this week. Enjoy countless special menus offered at discounted prices only during this celebration of all things OC restaurants. A full list of participating restaurants can be found at ocrestaurantweek.com

Festival of the Whales

Mar. 7-9. Picture a vibrant tapestry of marine-themed activities, educational exhibits, and family-friendly entertainment that captures the essence of our deep-sea neighbors. From captivating whale-watching excursions to engaging marine conservation talks, our carefully curated program promises an unforgettable experience for attendees of all ages. Dana Point Harbor, 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point. More Information

Final Days of Solar System Encounter

Ends March 9. Embark on an immersive journey into space with the limited-time return of Solar System Encounter featuring out-of-this world imagery from the James Webb Space Telescope at Discovery Cube Orange County, currently open, but only until March 9th when it blasts off. Open daily from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 2500 N Main Street, Santa Ana. More Information

Pacific Coast Sportfishing Tackle and Boat Show

March 6-9. The Pacific Coast Sportfishing Tackle and Boat Show is the West Coast’s premier outdoor show. Located in beautiful Orange County, California, the show draws vendors from all over the country including manufacturers, retail sales, travel lodges and dealers of hundreds of outdoor products. Hours vary. 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa. More Information

Food + Drink

Nick the Greek Celebrates Grand Opening in Irvine

Now Open. Nick the Greek, the West Coast-based chain serving up authentic Greek street food, has proudly opened in Irvine, California. Following the successful opening in Yorba Linda last year, the Irvine restaurant marks the brand’s fourth location in Orange County, further expanding Nick the Greek’s Golden State footprint. Open daily 11 a.m.-9 p.m. 15333 Culver Drive, Suite 450, Irvine. 949.978.4680. More Information

Lent at Five Crowns

March 7. Elevate your dining experience during Lent with Five Crowns’ fantastic seafood specials. Each special is designed to offer the perfect combination of rich flavors and indulgence. Enjoy dishes such as Grilled California Spiny Lobster with cole slaw and charred lemon, as well as countless other culinary creations during this limited event. Friday, 4:30-9 p.m. 3801 E. Coast Highway, Corona del Mar. 949.760.0331. More Information

Mint restaurant is Back

Ramadan Offerings at MINT

Now Available. Led by Head Chef Jamil Hosseini and four-time Michelin-recognized chef Imran Ali Mookhi, Mint’s family-style menu offers 100% Halal options, including classics like Chicken Tikka Masala, signature dishes like Goat Karahi, and desserts like Deconstructed Gajrella. Mint also boasts a standout non-alcoholic beverage program, proving exceptional dining doesn’t need alcohol. Hours vary. 25381 Alicia Pkwy C, Laguna Hills. More Information

Arts + Culture

Lecture with the Curator: Scott A. Shields on Breaking the Rules

Art Walk

March 6. Enjoy this month’s art walk, with the featured exhibition – Latest and Greatest – focusing on pieces by influential California artists, works exploring the nexus of art and nature, and those by a diverse range of California-based artists with a particular effort to increase representation of women. Thursday, 6- 9 p.m. 307 Cliff Drive, Laguna Beach. 949.494.8971. More Information

The Studio at Casa Romantica

Now Open. The Studio offers a unique experience where visitors can engage with working artists in an intimate setting. This dynamic space debuts with the work of acclaimed artist Rick J. Delanty, whose vibrant landscapes capture the beauty and spirit of Southern California. Delanty’s artwork, known for its expressiveness, energy, and positive color palette, will be on display through June. Hours vary. 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente. More Information

Photo credits: All other images are courtesy of the businesses and venues.

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