Orange County

Weekend roundup

November 21-24

Events

Winter Fest OC

Begins Nov. 22. Marking its 10th anniversary, this Costa Mesa holiday event transforms Orange County into a winter wonderland. Highlights include a North Pole walk-through, snow play, ice tubing and an all-new light show featuring over 2 million lights. Guests can enhance their experience with ice skating, a carnival, polar-themed mini-golf, fireside igloos and VIP arctic cabanas, along with hot cocoa and seasonal treats to stay warm. Opening day is this Friday at 4 p.m. 88 Fair Drive, Los Angeles. winterfestoc.com

Sawdust Festival's Winter Fantasy photo courtesy Sawdust Festival

Sawdust Winter Fantasy

Begins Nov. 22. Experience the magic of Sawdust Art Festival’s Winter Fantasy. 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. 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. Sawdust Art Festival, 935 Laguna Canyon Rd., Laguna Beach. More Information

Winter Lights Holiday Musical & Festival Begins

Starts Nov. 23. Created by Discovery Cube, in partnership with the Tony Award-winning production team, Apples & Oranges Studios, this holiday musical—a special part of the Holidays at the Cube celebration—invites audiences to come and get inspired in a winter wonderland filled with spectacle, original songs, and the holiday spirit. Starts this Saturday at 10 a.m. vary. 2500 N Main Street, Santa Ana. More Information

“Boozy Garden Tea Time” at Estancia

Cinderella Tea Party

Nov. 23. This enchanting 90-minute event includes a delightful full tea service with tea sandwiches, pastries, and canapes, perfect for princesses of all ages. Wear your favorite princess gown for a truly magical experience and abundant photo opportunities. A magical experience awaits—don’t miss out on this unforgettable royal tea party. Saturday at 2 p.m. The Gem Theatre, 12852 Main St, Garden Grove. More Information and Tickets

Food + Drink

Lantern’s Edge Welcomes Guests

Now Open. Located within the beautiful Laguna Cliffs Mariott Resort, Lantern’s Edge is now open to diners. With a sweeping view at the “edge” of Dana Point’s iconic Lantern District overlooking the harbor and ocean beyond, Lantern’s Edge is a vibrant showcase of coastal California cuisine within a Mediterranean-inspired atmosphere. Hours vary. 25135 Park Lantern, Dana Point. More Information

La Vaquera Opens for Lunch and Weekend Brunch

Nov. 22. Weekday lunch, weekend brunch and an afternoon bites menu debut at La Vaquera this weekend. The menu features dishes such as roasted carrots, charred cabbage and crispy spiced potatoes, alongside larger plates including a 10 oz Black Hawk Farms American Wagyu Denver steak, 8 oz Nebraska Gold filet mignon, ½/ Mary’s Heritage chicken and oak-grilled striped bass fillet. Prices range from $30 to $64. Starts this Friday, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 31904 Paseo Adelanto, San Juan Capistrano.

Fresh Lunch Options at Trattoria Trullo

Now Available. Chef Marco Criscuolo and the team at Trattoria Trullo have decided to have a little fun with their famous focaccia recipe and create a new collection of sandwiches. Enjoy the Prosciutto e Tartufo, Pollo, or Fuoco. Stay tuned as they introduce their new fall salads as well. Available Tuesday-Sunday, 11 a.m-4 p.m. 26611 Aliso Creek Rd C, Aliso Viejo. 949.446.9715. trattoriatrullo.com

The Lido Theater Café Pop-Up Opens

Now Open. For breakfast and lunch favorites from A Market, Café guests are invited to watch a complimentary movie in the iconic, newly restored theater. Relax in front of the big screen or at a table on the patio under the marquee to enjoy the curated menu, or grab some fresh goodies to go. Open daily from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. 3459 Via Lido, Newport Beach. thelidotheater.com

Cocktails To-Go For The Holidays

Available Now. Your favorite cocktails are now available daily during opening hours to-go. P10neer has bottled some of their creations for you to enjoy when you can’t reach the bar, or if the line is too long on the weekends. Their to-go offerings fluctuate and include items from their previous menus. Ask your bartender what we have on hand next time you visit. Hours vary. 2698 Newport Blvd, Costa Mesa. Reservations

Arts + Culture

Play About Comedy Legend Joan Rivers.

Final Weekend of “Joan”

Through Nov. 24. The final shows are here. Comedian, trailblazer, and force of nature—this is the story of a pioneering mom who redefined comedy. Experience the life of a fearless, edgy, and loving American icon in this moving and funny portrayal. Showtimes and more information are available here. South Coast Repertory, 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa. More Information

LAM Kid’s Studio

Nov. 23. Unleash your imagination and create your own masterpieces at the monthly LAM Kids Studio program. With guidance from LAM’s Education Team, kids will experiment with different artistic mediums and styles, explore the museum galleries and engage in fun-filled activities. Saturday, 11 a.m.-12 p.m. 307 Cliff Drive, Laguna Beach. More Information

Photo credits: Snowing and Little Girl Smiling courtesy of Winter Fest OC. All other images are courtesy of the businesses and venues.

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