This month, Orange County brings you cultural celebrations, wine-pairing dinners, Thanksgiving festivities and more. See our list of 50+ top Orange County things to do in November.
Edited by Whitney Lauren Han.
Brunch at Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse
Now Available. Newly-opened Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse is now serving brunch featuring signature dishes include the egg white frittata, crab cake Benedict and the beef tenderloin. Davio’s brunch will also offer pastas, fish and steak entrees, a selection of pizzas and panini, and more. To complete the experience, guests can build their own bloody mary from the roving cart during brunch service. Su 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Irvine Towers, 18420 Von Karman Ave., Irvine, 949.477.4810. davios.com
Dark Harbor
Through Nov. 2. Named one of the top 10 most haunted places on Earth by TIME magazine, Southern California’s most terrifyingly authentic haunt has risen from the deep, dripping with history of the infamously haunted ship. Dark Harbor’s resident spirits include Ringmaster, Captain, Samuel the Savage, Graceful Gale, Half-Hatch Henry, Iron Master, Scary Mary, Voodoo Priestess and Chef. See website for times. $20+. The Queen Mary, 1126 Queens Hwy., Long Beach, 562.499.1739. queenmary.com
Lea Michele and Darren Criss
Nov. 2. Actors and vocalists Lea Michele and Darren Criss come to Segerstrom Center as they continue their wildly successful LM/DC Tour on the West Coast. 7:30 p.m. $39+. Segerstrom Hall, 600 Town Center Dr., Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787. scfta.org
Big Adventure Fest
Nov. 3-4. Get ready for this two-day music, comedy and gaming festival at the OC Fair & Event Center. Featured performers include Empire of the Sun, Modest Mouse, Cold War Kids, Patton Oswalt and Jim Jefferies. Leading and celebrated figures from comics, film and TV will be in attendance to engage with fans, showcase art, discuss their craft in exclusive panels, sign autographs and more. Noon-10 p.m. See website for ticket prices. 88 Fair Dr., Costa Mesa. bigadventurefest.com
Far Niente Winery Dinner
Nov. 3. Experience Studio’s Chef Ben Martinek’s decadent five-course dinner featuring wine pairings from Far Niente Winery. The evening begins with hors d’oeuvres including Kona kampachi tartare and lobster fritters paired with Chardonnay. Main courses such as cured Baja striped bass, seared La Belle Farms duck breast, grilled dry aged strip steak and Thai long pepper-spiced venison loin. End the night with Rogue River Blue Cheese and charred blackberries served with Dolce, Napa Valley 2007. 6 p.m. $250. Montage Laguna Beach, 30801 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.715.6420. montagehotels.com
OCMAExpand-Santa Ana Open House
Nov. 3. Explore the Orange County Museum of Art’s new OCMAExpand-Santa Ana in a former retail space until the museum’s new home is completed at nearby Segerstrom Center for the Arts in 2021. Exhibiting artists Rodrigo Valenzuela, Mariángeles Soto-Díaz, Valentina Jager, Alan Nakagawa and Kathryn Garcia will engage with visitors through talks and performances. Th 11 a.m.-8 p.m., F-Su 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Free admission and parking. South Coast Plaza Village, 1661 W. Sunflower Ave., Santa Ana, 714.780.2130. ocmaexpand.org
Tropicália Fest
Nov. 3-4. Grab your tickets to this two-day music and taco festival that will take place at the Queen Mary Park. Headlining the fest will be British singer Morrissey and rapper Cardi B. Other confirmed acts include Kali Uchis, Mac Demarco, Chicano Batman, Mazzy Star and more. Doors 11 a.m., show at noon. See website for ticket prices. 1126 Queens Hwy., Long Beach, 855.414.6141. tropicaliafest.com
Dia de Los Muertos Celebration
Nov. 4. Continuing their interactive Family Festival Series, Bowers Museum invites the community to celebrate Dia de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead). Join the celebration and enjoy pan dulce with Mexican hot chocolate, face painting, special art projects and performances by Rhythmo Mariachi Kids, Folklorico Raices de Mexico, Trio Tres Souls, and Xipe Totec Danza Azteca. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Free admission with $15 purchase of Knights in Armor ticket. Bowers Museum, 2002 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 714.480.1520. bowers.org
Newport Dunes Triathlon
Nov. 4. Get your blood pumping at these inaugural Olympic and sprint distance races in Newport Dunes. Before the annual event, come the night before for the “Tri-cation” camping experience with RV or tent camping options just steps from the race course. Available on site are food trucks, s’mores and an outdoor family movie the evening prior to the event. 7 a.m. $50-$150 triathlon, $20 tri-cation camping experience. Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort, 1131 Back Bay Dr., Newport Beach, 949.729.3863. newportdunes.californiatriathlon.org
Quartetto di Cremona
Nov. 4. International chamber ensemble Quartetto di Cremona takes center stage in the Salmon Recital Hall at the Musco Center for the Arts. The quartet is an ambassador for the international “Friends of Stradivari” project and plays the Stradivarius “Paganini Quartet” with instruments on loan from the Nippon Music Foundation, which includes the same violin played by famed virtuoso violinist Henri Temianka. 4 p.m. See website for ticket prices. Chapman University, 415 N. Glassell, Orange, 844.626.8726. muscocenter.org
Sip ‘n’ Shuck at The Deck on Laguna Beach
Nov. 4. Come hungry to the 6th annual Sip ‘n’ Shuck tasting and fundraising experience. Indulge in a variety of hand-shucked oysters, Champagne and sparkling wines, all while enjoying panoramic ocean views at the oceanfront restaurants. Beverages will be provided courtesy of Casamigos Tequila, Laguna Beach Beer Company, Nolet’s, Veuve Clicquot, Bianchi Winery, Kendall Jackson, Tito’s Vodka and more. 21+. VIP entry 1 p.m., GA 2-6 p.m. $125 pre-sale, $150 VIP. Pacific Edge Hotel, 627 Sleepy Hollow Lane, Laguna Beach, 949.494.6700. sipnshuck.com
Crepes Bonaparte’s “I Voted” Special
Nov. 6. It’s time to vote! For any guest that shows their “I Voted” sticker, Crepes Bonaparte will offer a free ice cream scoop on any sweet crepe purchase. This offer will be valid at their restaurant, as well as at their two food trucks, Gaston and Pierre. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. 115 S. Harbor Blvd., Suite A, Fullerton, 714.595.9995. crepesbonaparte.com
Dom Pérignon Champagne Dinner
Nov. 6. Executive Chef Jesus Mendoza and the culinary team at 21 Oceanfront presents an exclusive five-course Champagne dinner featuring drink pairings of Dom Pérignon. While Diego Meraviglia—U.S. Brand Ambassador of Dom Pérignon—gives his speech, enjoy dishes such as asparagus soup, uni toast with butter fried brioche, oxtail ravioli, wagyu surf and turf, and buttermilk vanilla bean bundt cake to top off the evening. Reservations required. 6:30 p.m. $325, $415 with tax and gratuity included. 2100 W. Oceanfront, Newport Beach, 949.673.2100. 21oceanfront.com
Free Dessert at SAJJ Mediterranean
Nov. 6. Vote for dessert! On Election Day, SAJJ Mediterranean is treating all customers who show off their “I Voted” sticker with a free dessert, like their signature baklava or chocolate hummus. Offer is valid all day long at all SAJJ Mediterranean locations throughout California. 22245 El Paseo, Rancho Santa Margarita, 949.709.7779. sajjstreeteats.com
Inglenook Wine Dinner
Nov. 6. Join Chef Tony, Luke and the team at CUCINA enoteca Irvine for a special five-course wine dinner with Napa Valley’s historic Inglenook Winery and Associate Winemaker Chris Phelps. Guests will enjoy five Inglenook wines paired with Chef Tony’s California-inspired Italian fare. 6 p.m. $110 (excludes service fee and tax). CUCINA enoteca Irvine, 532 Spectrum Center Dr., Irvine, 949.861.2222. urbankitchengroup.com
Honey County at THE RANCH Saloon
Nov. 7. Praised by Rolling Stone, female country trio Honey County is heading to THE RANCH Saloon for the Crossroad Country Wednesday live music showcase. The evening will also include free dance lessons by Dev, plus food and drink specials. Doors 5:30 p.m. $15 for ages 18-20, $5 for ages 21+. 1025 E. Ball Road, Anaheim, 714.817.4200. theranch.com
Women’s Empowerment Event
Nov. 7. Bank of America and Orange County United Way present Local, Global & Me, a Women’s Empowerment Series focused on investing in women to build strong communities. This second installment of the three-part series will feature a special presentation from Mary Niven—Senior V.P., Experience Development and Integration for Disneyland Resort—about her role at a renowned global brand, and how women in all job capacities and industries can come together to create positive change in their communities. 5:30-8 p.m. Free, RSVP required to Amanda Hastings at amandah@unitedwayoc.org. Irvine Improv at Irvine Spectrum Center, 527 Spectrum Center Dr., Irvine, 949.263.6141. unitedwayoc.org
Paws on the Walk
Nov. 8. Bring your pooch to sit on the patio at Fire + Ice Interactive Grill + Bar that offers visitors a unique opportunity to share select happy hours with their best four-legged friends. There will be special photo opportunity with props for you to hold and an artificial turf “green carpet” for dogs to walk on. 4Life Animal Rescue will be available to answer questions about dog adoption, feeding and care. 4-7 p.m. Anaheim GardenWalk, 400 W. Disney Way, Anaheim, 714.635.7410. anaheimgardenwalk.com
Mikhailovsky Ballet’s “Don Quixote”
Nov. 9-11. Inspired by Miguel de Cervantes’ tale of romance and chivalry, St. Petersburg’s Mikhailovsky Ballet and Orchestra returns with a premiere of the dazzling Don Quixote. This tale is about the knight-errant of la Mancha Don Quixote and his devoted squire Sancho Panza are heroic when it comes to aiding the spirited village maiden Kitri and her charming amour, the besotted barber Basilio. F 7:30 p.m., Sa 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Su 1 p.m. $29+. Segerstrom Hall, 600 Town Center Dr., Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787. scfta.org
Silver Oak and Twomey Wine Dinner
Nov. 9. Elevate your evening with sips and savory dishes at Five Crown’s highly anticipated wine dinner. The evening’s festivities begin with a cocktail reception followed by a five-course dinner prepared by Executive Chef Alejandra Padilla. Each plate will be expertly paired with renowned varietals from Silver Oak and Twomey Cellars. 6-9 p.m. $175 (includes tax and gratuity). Five Crowns, 3801 E. Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar, 949.760.0331. Tickets
“The Wonderful Music of Oz”
Nov. 9-10. Follow the yellow brick road on a musical journey with the Pacific Symphony, featuring vocalists Kelli Rabke, Law Dunford, Scott Coulter and pianist John Boswell. The orchestra will play selected songs from each of the productions, including some of the beloved classics such as “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” and “Defying Gravity.” Doors open 6:45 p.m., show 8 p.m. $45+. Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 600 Town Center, Dr., Costa Mesa, 714.755.5799. scfta.org
Driftwood Country Music Festival
Nov. 10-11. Swing over for an afternoon of country music, craft beers and barbecue at the annual country music fest. Playing host to several California breweries and beyond, festival-goers will receive a complementary tasting glass to enjoy unlimited tastings from 1-4 p.m. Locally-sourced food trucks and restaurants will be onsite to serve barbecue. In addition to the 200+ different craft beers to taste, the music stage will host performers such as Chase Rice, Big & Rich, Michael Ray, Kristian Mush (of Sugarland), Carly Pearce, Jamestown Revival and more. VIP entry at noon, 1-9 p.m. $39.50+ GA, $129.50+ VIP. Doheny State Beach, 25300 Harbor Dr., Dana Point. driftwoodfest.com
Handmade: A Maker’s Market
Nov. 10. For one day only, the non-profit’s ecological oasis in San Juan Capistrano will transform into an open-air market and modern village showcasing a variety of handmade goods from some of Southern California’s most creative artisans and makers. Most makers accept cash and credit card. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free, RSVP required. The Ecology Center, 32701 Alipaz St., San Juan Capistrano, 949.443.4223. theecologycenter.org
“Kings”
Through Nov. 10. Fresh from New York, this incisive comedic play takes an unflinching look at how things get done in Washington. The story follows new Congresswoman Sydney Millsap, who’s determined to drain the swamp, but then she meets whip-smart lobbyist Kate, who gets her clients what they want—whatever they want. See website for show times and prices. South Coast Repertory, 655 Town Center Dr., Costa Mesa, 714.708.5555. scr.org
“Legally Blonde”
Nov. 10-18. Based on the book and hit movie of the same name, this award-winning musical packs more than fabulously fun songs and visual delight. Everyone underestimates Elle Woods (herself included), but when she achieves admission to Harvard Law in order to win back her boyfriend, she is surprised to find much more in store for her future. See website for show times and prices. Irvine Barclay Theatre, 4242 Campus Dr., Irvine, 949.854.4646. thebarclay.org
Salute to Veterans
Nov. 10. Presented in collaboration with California labor unions and the Orange County Market Place, the community is invited to donate non-perishable items to help veterans in need. Expect live music by 1980s rock ‘n’ roll band Flashback Heart Attack and performances by Vanguard University of Southern California and the Pacific Symphony’s Brass Quintet. Other highlights include a complimentary hot dog lunch, a job fair, acitivities for kids and more. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. OC Fair & Event Center, 88 Fair Dr., Costa Mesa, 714.708.1500. ocfair.com
“Waitress”
Nov. 13-25. Inspired by Adrienne Shelly’s beloved film, Waitress tells the story of expert pie maker and waitress Jenna as she dreams of a way out of her small town and loveless marriage. This new hit features original music and lyrics by six-time Grammy nominee Sara Bareilles, a book by acclaimed screenwriter Jessie Nelson (I Am Sam), choreography by Lorin Latarro (Les Dangereuse Liasons, Waiting for Godot) and direction by Tony Award winner Diane Paulus. See website for show times. $29+. Segerstrom Hall, 600 Town Center Dr., Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787. scfta.org
Daniel Bonte at THE RANCH Saloon
Nov. 14. Rock-country artist Daniel Bonte is bringing his tunes to THE RANCH Saloon for the Crossroad Country Wednesday live music showcase. The evening will also include free dance lessons by Dev, plus food and drink specials. Doors 5:30 p.m. $15 for ages 18-20, $5 for ages 21+. 1025 E. Ball Road, Anaheim, 714.817.4200. theranch.com
Meet The Makers Night at The Hood
Nov. 14. Meet 16 of O.C.’s leading culinary artisans and creative entrepreneurs, who will be stationed at individual tables to share their entrepreneur journey while offering samples and items for sale. This will also be a great opportunity to collect holiday gifting ideas. 6-8 p.m. Free. The Hood Kitchen Space,
Pilobolus: “Come to Your Senses”
Nov. 14. Dive into Pilobolus’s multi-sensory experience featuring live performances of onstage Pilobolus works alongside transmedia digital creations. In this brand new repertory show, audiences will come back to their senses and explore the connection between the human body and the analog world around us. 7:30 p.m. $22-$55. Musco Center for the Arts at Chapman University, 415 N. Glassell, Orange, 844.626.8726. muscocenter.org
World Taste of Packing District
Nov. 14. Get ready to embark on a culinary expedition throughout the historic Anaheim Packing District. Each ticket includes 10 tastes from participating dining establishments including ADYA, Georgia’s Restaurant, The Kroft, URBANA and more. Live global entertainment includes Grammy-nominated Roger Espinoza and “Gypsy Fiesta”, Fontain’s MUSE, Phoenix Horse Lion Dance and The Pollen Collective. 6-9 p.m. $40. 440 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, 714.502.0255. Tickets
50th Anniversary ZD Wines Dinner
Nov. 15. In honor of the 50th anniversary of Napa Valley’s ZD Wines, Watertable will be hosting a five-course wine dinner. Menu highlights include grilled tiger prawns, roasted pork tenderloin, pan-seared duck breast, and honey and thyme pear crumble. 6 p.m. $125 (excludes tax and gratuity). Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa, 21500 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.845.4885. hyatt.com
Beaujolais Nouveau at Bistango
Nov. 16. Come dressed in your French best to celebrate the harvest and the long-awaited release of the Beaujolais Nouveau. During this French-themed celebration, enjoy special menu items to pair with the 2018 vintages, live entertainment and flights. Limited number of bottles available for retail. For reservations, call or email at info@bistango.com. 5-9 p.m. 19100 Von Karman Ave., Irvine, 949.752.5222. bistango.com
Fashion Island’s Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony
Nov. 16-17. Fashion Island’s annual tree lighting ceremony returns with holiday surprises and delights in the Neiman Marcus-Bloomingdale’s Courtyard. Hosting this event are dancers (also husband and wife) Stephen “Twitch” Boss and Allison Holker in welcoming the season with Santa and “snowfall,” as well as a live performance by The Young Americans. 6 p.m. Free. Fashion Island, 401 Newport Center Dr., Newport Beach, 949.721.2000. shopfashionisland.com
SIX Happy Hour
Nov. 16. Irvine’s newest fitness studio SIX invites the community to experience a 1980s-themed 50-minute strength focused interval training workout, followed by a refreshing happy hour. Themed workout attire is encouraged but not required. Starts at 5:30 p.m., new attendees should arrive at 5 p.m. Free. Los Olivos Marketplace, 8535 Irvine Center Dr., Irvine, 949.300.5399. sixworkout.com
Bridges: Connecting Cultures from South Korea to Puerto Rico
Nov. 17. Celebrate the rich diversity of Puerto Rico and South Korea through food, music, visual arts and dance at a new outdoor series, Bridges, that will take place throughout the year. Highlights include performances from Korean American Youth Performing Artists, OC Kpop Academy, Oskar Cartaya and The Ricannection, Taller Bula and others, as well as a collaborative finale where both cultures take the stage and create music together. 2-6 p.m. Free. Argyros Plaza, 600 Town Center Dr., Costa Mesa, 714.556.2121. scfta.org
“Muzeo Express”
Opens Nov. 17. Come celebrate the holiday season with model trains, miniature scenes and hands-on activities. Complete with historical relics showcasing the history of trains in Southern California, Muzeo Express is sure to be a holiday favorite for children and enthusiasts alike. W-Su 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $10 adults, $7 children ages 4-12, $8 students/seniors/military. Muzeo Main Gallery, 241 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, 714.956.8936. muzeo.org
Sawdust Festival’s Winter Fantasy
Starts Nov. 17. Every weekend through Dec. 16, experience this annual magical outdoor art village during the holiday season. This event features 175 artists and makers, three stages of live music and entertainment, thousands of lights and decorations, glassblowing and art demos, hands-on pottery wheel, complimentary art classes, falling snow, holiday photo-ops, outdoor cafes, festive saloon offerings and more. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. $8 adults, $6 seniors age 65+, $4 children ages 6-12, free for ages 5 and under. 935 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.494.3030. sawdustartfestival.org
Sommelier Battle – USA vs. Italy
Nov. 17. Spend the evening with Antonello Ristorante for a friendly battle of wines. Witness master sommeliers Peter Neptune and Michael Jordan go head-to-head pairing four wines each from Italy and the United States. Guests will enjoy said wines paired with a four-course meal, and vote to decide who comes out on top. 6:30 p.m. $145. 3800 South Plaza Dr., Santa Ana, 714.751.7153. antonello.com
Surfing Santa and Stand-Up Paddle Board Competition
Nov. 17-18. Have a jolly good time at this annual two-day competition where contestants dress as Santa or other holiday-inspired characters to battle it out in the waves. Prizes are awarded in seven divisions for first through fifth place. Surfing begins at 8 a.m. $60 entry fee. Salt Creek Beach, 33333 Pacific Coast Hwy., Dana Point, 949.240.2000. surfingsantacontest.org
Holiday-Inspired Gingerbread Extravaganza
Nov. 18. In celebration of the holiday season, Executive Pastry Chef Sylvain Haage and his team will spend more than 500 hours creating a spectacular gingerbread extravaganza that will be available on public display through the New Year. This display will be fashioned out of an array of homemade gingerbread, colorful candy, sweet treats, baked goods and other delectable confections. The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel, One Ritz-Carlton Dr., Dana Point, 949.240.2000. ritzcarlton.com
Holiday Open House and Tree Lighting Ceremony
Nov. 18. Get ready for the most wonderful time of the year with the annual holiday open house and tree lighting. Enjoy festivities, holiday music performed by The Jeeps and a special appearance from Santa Claus. Guests are asked to bring a new, unwrapped toy to be donated to Miracles for Kids, or canned goods and non-perishable food items to benefit the Orange County Rescue Mission. 4 p.m. Free. The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel, One Ritz-Carlton Dr., Dana Point, 949.240.2000. ritzcarlton.com
Violinist Sarah Chang
Nov. 18. Already a renowned star by age eight, Sarah Chang will make her Musco Center for the Arts debut accompanied by pianist Julio Elizalde. In addition to her performance, Sarah Chang will work with Chapman University students during a Musco Master Class. 4 p.m. $35-$65. Chapman University, 415 N. Glassell, Orange, 844.626.8726. muscocenter.org
Cat on the Mat Kitty Yoga
Nov. 20. Held on the second and fourth Tuesday every month, Catmosphere Laguna hosts Kitty Yoga with by local yoga and meditation experts. Enjoy a morning of relaxing yoga in the Kitty Lounge with the company of Catmosphere’s adoptable cats and kittens. Space is limited to 8 guests; reservations can be made online. 11 a.m.-noon. $25 per guest. 381 Forest Ave., Laguna Beach, 949.619.6369. catmospherelaguna.com
Justin Timberlake
Nov. 20. Grammy award-winning singer Justin Timberlake is bringing his charisma and catchy tunes to Anaheim for the tour of his fourth studio album, The Man Of The Woods. At every U.S. tour stop, there will be a VIP Verizon Up section, putting customers up close and personal to the stage. 7:30 p.m. See website for ticket prices. Honda Center, 2695 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.704.2500. hondacenter.com
Thanksgiving Chocolate Pop-Up Shop
Nov. 20. Looking for the perfect Thanksgiving Day hostess gifts? Sample and shop ‘s new Harvest Collection to get a few ideas at The Hood Kitchen Space. For Thanksgiving dessert, any of the Harvest Collection items would pair well with pumpkin pie or be a nice addition to a fall-themed charcuterie dessert board. Noon-7 p.m.
Back Bay Bistro’s Gourmet Thanksgiving Buffet and Holiday To-Go
Nov. 22. Dine on a festive gourmet buffet featuring slow roasted turkey, holiday sides and more at Back Bay Bistro. For those who wish to enjoy their Thanksgiving meal in the relaxation of their own home, Back Bay Bistro is also offering Thanksgiving To-Go. Call ahead by Nov. 21 to reserve your professionally prepared whole turkey and a selection of favorite holiday sides (949.729.3800). To RSVP for the buffet, call 949.729.1144. Buffet seatings: 9:30-11:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m., 2-4 p.m. Buffet: $52 adults, $25 children 10 and under; Thanksgiving To-Go: $155 (serves 4-6). 1131 Back Bay Dr., Newport Beach. newportdunes.com
Dana Point Turkey Trot
Nov. 22. Before you gobble up your Thanksgiving dinner, kick-start your morning with the 41st annual Turkey Trot. Registered participants can walk, jog or run a 5K or 10K through picturesque Dana Point Harbor and Doheny State Beach. Kids ages 5-12 can also join the fun during the Kids’ Gobble Wobble race. Enjoy special Thanksgiving menu items and prices at select restaurants in the harbor. 6-11 a.m. $42+ for 5K race, $47 for 10K race, $22+ Kids’ Gobble Wobble. See website for details. Golden Lantern and Dana Point Harbor Dr., Dana Point, 949.496.1555. turkeytrot.com
Through Nov. 22. Take Thanksgiving to-go with Grasslands Meat Market’s Thanksgiving Box this holiday season. For every two boxes sold, Grasslands will donate one box to Bracken’s Kitchen to help make the holiday brighter for an Orange County family in need. Each box provides a full turkey dinner to feed six to eight family members or friends and comes complete with favorite holiday sides. Place an order for your fully cooked Thanksgiving feast by Nov. 20 and it will be hot, fresh and ready for pick-up on Thanksgiving Day. Anaheim GardenWalk, 400 W. Disney Way, Suite 199, Anaheim, 657.208.1133. grasslandsusa.com
Splashes’ Three-Course Thanksgiving Dinner
Nov. 22. Just steps from the water, Splashes will offer a three-course Thanksgiving menu with optional wine pairings for family and friends. Menu highlights include Dungeness crab roulade, caramelized kabocha squash salad, roast Diestel Farms turkey and pumpkin tart. Lunch: noon-4 p.m., dinner: 4-8 p.m. $85/pp lunch, $110/pp dinner ($40 extra for wine pairings). Surf & Sand Resort, 1555 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 888.281.3502. surfandsandresort.com
Thanksgiving at Five Crowns
Nov. 22. Celebrate Thanksgiving like royalty at this charming replica of one of England’s oldest country inns. The festive menu boasts the classic oven-roasted free range turkey with stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, buttered Blue Lake green beans and housemade cranberry compote; or prime rib of beef that is served with au jus, Yorkshire pudding, organic whipped cream horseradish and choice of side. Guests can also choose the “Best of Both” for a portion of prime rib and a side of turkey with all the seasonal accompaniments. For those spending the holiday at home, Five Crowns offers the traditional prime rib dinner to-go. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. 3801 E. Coast Hwy., Corona Del Mar, 949.760.0331. lawrysonline.com
Thanksgiving Feast in The Backyard
Nov. 22. Savor a cornucopia of food selections in The Backyard, including brunch favorites, bottomless mimosas with an array of toppings and garnishes, plus a dessert station to top it all off. There will also be live music from a solo guitarist, a kid’s craft station featuring face painting and balloon art, a photo booth, giant lawn games and more. Seatings: 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. $75 adult, $35 kids 5-12, free for children 4 and under. Hotel Irvine, 17900 Jamboree Road, Irvine, 949.225.6780. hotelirvine.com
Thanksgiving at Vue Restaurant
Nov. 22. Want to eat out for the holiday? Enjoy a late Thanksgiving lunch or dinner at Vue Restaurant. There will be an offering of small plates such as shrimp cocktail, crab cakes, calamari rock shrimp or vegetable minestrone soup. Holiday specials include prime rib of beef, pan-seared local bass and the slow-roasted turkey dinner. There are vegan, gluten free and dairy free options available. See full menu on their website. Reservations required. 1-8 p.m. Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa, 25135 Park Lantern, Dana Point, 949.487.7516. lagunacliffs.com
Thanksgiving Bountiful Brunch
Nov. 22. Held in the Fashion Island Hotel Ballroom, dine on a Thanksgiving brunch that includes free-range turkey, carved-to-order prime rib and more. There will be a seafood station, biscuit bar, Thanksgiving desserts and assorted individual pies and Champagne to wash it all down. Live music and children’s crafts make this a day for the whole family. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. $80 adults, $20 ages 5-12, free for ages 4 and under. Fashion Island Hotel, 690 Newport Center Dr., Newport Beach, 949.760.4913. fashionislandhotel.com
Holiday Fireside Sessions at Oak Grill
Starts Nov. 23. Warm up with friends and loved ones during the holidays at Oak Grill. Live acoustic holiday music will be performed by popular local guitarists every Friday and Saturday night through Dec. 29. While staying cozy, sip on featured seasonal cocktails and snack on complimentary homemade holiday popcorn. 6-9 p.m. Fashion Island Hotel, 690 Newport Center Dr., Newport Beach, 949.760.4920. oakgrillnb.com
Lighting of the Bay
Nov. 23. Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort kicks off the holiday season with this 28th annual celebration. Families will enjoy live chorale performances, an outdoor screening of Elf, cookie decorating, holiday crafts and train rides. Santa will arrive on center stage by stand-up paddleboard and flip the magic switch to illuminate the bay with more than 50 electric Christmas trees and holiday decorations. Additional food and bar concessions will be available for purchase. 3-8 p.m. Free. Parking $10. Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort, 1131 Back Bay Dr., Newport Beach, 800.765.7661. newportdunes.com
Fashion Island Express Gingerbread Display
Nov. 26. Fashion Island Hotel’s Pastry Chef Andy de la Cruz, recently seen on Food Network, and his helpers will present another movie-themed gingerbread spectacular presentation with The Polar Express as its inspiration. On this unveiling day, Santa will be arriving with toys, and gift boxes will be placed underneath lit-up, glowing palm trees. 690 Newport Center Dr., Newport Beach, 949.760.4920. fashionislandhotel.com
Fine Chocolate 101 Workshop
Nov. 28. In collaboration with Kean Coffee, Valenza Chocolatier is hosting a workshop with Master Chocolatier Amy Jo. Guests will learn how to experience fine chocolate with four bean-to-bar varieties from different parts of the world plus an exclusive Kean Coffee Golden Mean Espresso Bonbon sample. RSVP required. 7-8:30 p.m. $10. valenzachocolatier.com
Mikhailovsky Ballet’s “Don Quixote” photo by Jack Devant. Sip ‘n’ Shuck at The Deck on Laguna Beach photo courtesy Sip ‘n’ Shuck. Handmade: A Maker’s Market photo courtesy The ACE Agency. Sawdust Festival’s Winter Fantasy photo by Sawdust Festival. Splashes’ Three-Course Thanksgiving Dinner photo courtesy Surf & Sand Resort.
[et_bloom_inline optin_id=optin_12]
