The beach Christmas tree at Crystal Cove State Park does not disappoint! I’d seen photos from photographer friends and heard about this Christmas tree at the beach, but never visited until 2017. Now we go every year! I hope you can see how magical it was from my UNEDITED photos! I did not change the colors or even crop these photos taken in years past – it was one of those nights when it all came out right.Beach Christmas Tree at Crystal Cove State ParkI love how simply the beach Christmas tree is decorated. The beach provides the backdrop and the sunset adds to the mood.December and January are times for ultra-low tides so it can be an awesome time to combine the family photos by the Christmas tree with tidepooling, too.Of course, all our wishes came true on our FIRST visit with a beach sunset, Christmas tree on the beach, tidepooling, AND Shake Shack milkshakes to end the day with a cherry on top. Then in 2022, we came just after sunrise for a walk on the beach and enjoyed breakfast burritos with a view. There are so many ways to do this outing and they are ALL fun!So how do you get to the beach Christmas tree at Crystal Cove State Park?Crystal Cove State Park is one of my favorite “wild” places in Orange County. It’s a stretch of beach and inland hiking trails that run from north of Laguna Beach to south of Corona del Mar/Newport Beach.If you’ve ever seen the bright yellow Shake Shack while driving on Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), then you’ve driven past the cottages and Christmas tree which are on the beach below.I’ve written a number of posts about what to do from each parking area of the park. But the beach Christmas tree is best reached from the historic district where the Crystal Cove cottages are located.Must Read:I explain how to park and get to the beach area in my Family Guide to Crystal Cove Historic District via Los Trancos.  It’s kind of complicated so it took a full post to describe all the ways to get down to the sand. Just be ready for a bit of a trek. One mom last year braved this trip on her own with her kids and reported back that they had an awesome time!How to Extend Your Beach TripTidepool or walk the beach.See the sunset.Grab a milkshake or dinner at the Shake Shack. It can be really busy. So pick a time when you can avoid crowds.Go on a date night to The Beachcomber without the kids. (You could get food to go and eat on the beach.)I suggested stopping at Fashion Island (north) or Dana Point Harbor and the Ritz Carlton (south) to see Christmas lights or another Christmas tree on your way home. What You Need to KnowHere are more things you will need to know about your December visit to the beach . . .The annual treel lighting is scheduled for Saturday, December 7th, 2024 at 5:15pm. There will be a tree lighting and Holiday Bazaar in the Historic District. Crystal Cove Conservancy says: “From 10:00AM – 6:00PM, visitors can shop for gifts from local artisans during the Holiday Bazaar, meet Santa during a beachside photo op, munch on cookies and cocoa courtesy of The Beachcomber, and hear holiday tunes sung throughout the Cove by the Santa Ana High School Choir. The event will wrap-up as we light the iconic beach tree as the sun sets along the horizon.“You can go to their website for their FULL schedule of events, but here are the highlights for families.Holiday BazaarTime: 10:00AM-6:00PMLocation: Education CommonsSanta Meet & GreetTime: 3:30PM-5:00PMLocation: Cottage #46Cookies and Cocoa by Beachcomber CafeTime: 3:00PM-5:00PMLocation: Outside Education CommonsSanta Ana High School ChoirTime: 3:00PM-5:30PMLocation: Various locations throughout the Historic DistrictTree LightingTime: 5:15PMLocation: In front of The Beachcomber CafeBe aware of weather and tides. Sometimes the trail to the beach from the parking lot closes due to weather or flooding. Sometimes there are high surf advisories and extra high tides. Sometimes there is fog at the beach and it’s chilly — you might not get to see a sunset!  And, really, who wants to be at the beach when those conditions are happening anyways?Don’t leave  your valuables in your car. These parking lots are targets because thieves know you are going to go on a hike and to the beach — and then leave your car and be gone for a while. Take all valuables with you and lock your car manually.Your food options are Crystal Cove Shake Shack up on the bluff or down at The Beachcomber at Crystal Cove. You can start with burgers and shakes up on the bluff at the Shake Shack and then take the stairs down to the beach — or end your night with a walk up the stairs to get food after visiting the beach. Or make reservations for a sit-down at The Beachcomber at Crystal Cove.Parking and getting to the beach. As I said above, Crystal Cove is between Laguna Beach and Corona del Mar/Newport Beach. My best advice for parking and navigating this area of the park is in this post: Family Guide to Crystal Cove Historic District via Los Trancos.Get the official information. Visit the OFFICIAL Crystal Cove Conservancy and Crystal Cove State Park websites for OFFICIAL information and notices.Other Holiday Lights posts on my blog:Christmas in Orange County: Mostly Free Things to Do for Families (+ Gift Ideas)Dana Point Happy HarborDays LightsEnchanted: Forest of Light at Descanso GardensNewport Dunes Lighting of the BayIrvine Park Railroad Christmas Train and Santa’s VillageThe post Beach Christmas Tree at Crystal Cove appeared first on Fun Orange County Parks.

I don’t know if there are truly best things to do around Christmas in Orange County because what is BEST for one family may not be BEST for another. Instead, I like to highlight the family-friendly and mostly free things to do during the holidays. You know, those things that might become Christmas family traditions (or at least they have for our family!). I’ve also included lists and information about experiential gift ideas!I am so excited to finally have ALL my holiday places to go and simple holiday gift ideas in one spot on the blog. They are currently scattered amongst my social media and annual blog posts, but hard to find in one place until now!I’m always trying to find playful things to do that don’t require much of you. Things that don’t only happen on one night, but you can enjoy over the whole holiday season.The things to do on this Christmas in Orange County list are things I have personally experienced doing with my family or friends who have encourage me to try them out. In fact, I used to make a December advent calendar of winter activities — yes, California winter — with the kids and now that they are grown they are making them for our family (and including all the traditions throughout the years!).Here’s the lists! Make sure you click through to the blog posts and websites for more information. And always check official sources to make sure the hours haven’t changed.Make sure you go all the way to the end of the post for a FREE printable! Free & Low Cost Family Christmas Traditions in Orange County (+ Gift Ideas) There are so many lists of how to spend money at this time of year, that I wanted to create a list of free or low cost experiences for Orange County families that are perfectly fine on their own or you can choose to add to them. I'm not saying that paying makes them better, though. They are fine just as they are. I tried to highlight the costs so it's easy for you to figure out. 1 Holiday Lights at Dana Point Harbor 2024 You can stroll through ALL the lights at Dana Point Harbor for free. If you can, support the Harbor businesses when you go! We love the M-F 4pm-7pm Happy Hour menu on the patio at Harpoon Henry's. Or try Coffee Importers Scoop Deck for coffee or cocoa and desserts like ice cream and incredible baked goods.COST: Free. Go to Blog Post 2 Beach Christmas Tree at Crystal Cove You'll definitely want to read this one, because it's a bit hard to navigate if you've never been. You'll have to park across the street in the Los Trancos parking lot and make your way down to beach via shuttle or walking. See the blog post for the tree lighting date!COST: Parking is $5/hour to $15 per day on Mon-Thursday. Or use your CA State Parks Annual Pass for free access (you can check one out at the library for free). Fri-Sun and holiday rates can go up to $20/day. If you choose to take the shuttle it is $2 per person each way for adults -- kids under 12 free with a paying adult. Go to Blog Post 3 Candlelight Walk & Holiday Lights at Heritage Hill Historical Park in Lake Forest This one is a favorite, but it has gotten more and more popular over the years. It happens 2 weekends in December. The first weekend is called the "Candlelight Walk" and it has entertainment and vendors. The second weekend is called "Holiday Lights" and it's got the same beautiful lights, but not the entertainment or vendors.COST: Free. Go to Blog Post 4 Holidayz at the Park (Great Park in Irvine) FREE! Holidayz at the Park in Irvine is an outdoor light display with fun free photo opportunities.I knew about the outdoor part, but did you know there is a Pop-Up of INDOOR photo backdrops??? I counted about 7 indoors and there are tons of opportunities with the lights outdoors!Inside the Pop-Up are super friendly staff and volunteers who will help your little one write letters to Santa and put them in one of the red mailboxes. They are also available to take family photos so everyone can be in the picture! We had so much fun discovering this festive spot with friendly helpers!COST: FREE. And the carousel is now free, as well.PARKING: FREE (park near the carousel at Great Park).PARK ADDRESS: 8000 Great Park Blvd, Irvine (but this address is really general - you will want to park near the carousel and Great Park balloon).HOURS: Outside lights on display each night. Holidayz Pop-Up photo ops open WEEKENDS only from 5pm-9pm on Fridays and 1pm to 8pm on Saturdays and Sundays. So cute - and not crowded at all when we went on a Friday at 5:15pm!TIP: Look up on the Hangar roof to see a sleigh and reindeer! Go to Website 5 Newport Dunes Christmas Lights in Newport Beach (2024) This is absolutely a must-see for my family every year. Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort is featuring a Fire & Lights Festival (no ice rink this year). Runs Nov 29th-Jan 5th. The Fire & Lights Festival is free admission and open to the public. Concessions, some activities, and holiday trees will be an additional cost. COST: FREE - Go see the lighted trees floating on the bay. Least busy nights will be Mondays & Tuesdays - because the festival isn’t happening then, but the bay will be lit up. Park for under 30 minutes and it’s free. (30 minutes to 2 hours is $10). NOT FREE: Concessions, some activities, and holiday trees will be an additional cost.  Go to Blog Post 6 Santa's Village at Irvine Park Railroad (2024) This is another one that has gotten popular. I was shocked being there at night last year with the Christmas Train crowds after dark. It is FREE to go to Santa's Village. I have seen the strategy of going around 4pm on weekdays! Santa's Village Hours: Weekdays 4pm-9pm and Weekends 10am-9pm.COST: Free to get into the village, but it does cost $3, $5, or $7 for parking at Irvine Regional Park. Free parking if you go to the park after 6pm. Go to Blog Post 7 The Snoopy House Holiday Display at Costa Mesa City Hall Photo Credit: www.sandytoesandpopsicles.com The Snoopy House at Costa Mesa City Hall has a themed light display, but also free nightly events. Only runs Dec 13th-20th. Thanks to Jill at @popsicleblog for her info on the event! It has been a family tradition for her and her kids over the years. Go to Blog Post 8 Fashion Island - 50 Nights of Coastal Lights (Multiple Nightly Lighting Shows with Snowfall) 50 NIGHTS OF COASTAL LIGHTS at Fashion Island in Newport Beach happens nightly every half hour from 5:30pm-8pm in the Neiman Marcus - Bloomingdale’s Courtyard.We were there on a Monday night and there were only a few families there enjoying the early shows. My dad was at The District with us and then also there on this night - he called this one “like The District, but bigger.”He’s right, too. This one has smoke and snowfall effects, plus at least 4 or 5 songs. The kids just LOVED it!It’s a FREE nightly experience running November 22nd through December 29th.I also loved the Santa house here and on the same night only had one family in line. We took selfies with my sis, my dad, and me from outside. I heard from a reader that they love the Santa here.PARKING: I would park outside the Barnes & Noble and go in through The Atrium. Bear to your left, walk past the escalator, and you will end up outside at the Koi Pond. The Santa House is just past the pond and then you will see the 90 foot tree beyond that. If you wait on the grassy turf area and look at the tree just before the hour or half hour, the show will start and the kids will be surprised by the music and snowfall!FOOD: There’s a food court on the bottom floor of The Atrium if you want to grab dinner while you are there.TRY THIS: Drive by Rogers Gardens on your way home because all the pine trees lining the property are glowing in gold and green lights!COST: Free. Go to Website 9 Holiday Light Show at The District Tustin (Nightly) A NEW HOLIDAY TRADITION for our family! We started this past holiday season and it was just as fun and MELLOW and NOT CROWDED this time around!Thanks to The District Tustin for this festive show that’s fun for all ages. It runs every half hour from 5pm to 11pm nightly in the AMC Courtyard. ONE SONG each half hour so you can get there a little before 5pm and get the 5pm, 5:30pm, and 6pm shows! [No one invited us for this experience - we paid our own way and I thought up these options just for you!]We like going M-F because Bar Louie has Happy Hour from 4pm-7pm and you can sit on their patio to enjoy yummy food (50% off select Bar Bites and Flatbreads) and watch the FREE light shows.OR you can get a pizza from Sal’s Pizzeria and hang out at the outdoor tables.OR go for dessert only and grab a huge serving of Dolce Gelato (the same popular shop in Laguna Beach is here, but parking is easier - especially if you show up before 5pm)!I love the simplicity of this tradition and there are tons of other restaurants right here to choose from! But those 3 options I mentioned are the ones that allow you to eat WHILE enjoying the show.You can also add in an afternoon movie that gets out before the light show starts!We didn’t rush and just enjoyed our time. Our server and the food were both excellent. They even turned down the outside restaurant music a notch for us early birds so we could hear the show. And turned on the patio heater for the grandparents. So nice of them!The District has other photo and seating options throughout the area with giant walk-inside ornaments.PARKING: We like to go in off Tustin Ranch Road and park outside the theater as close as we can to the entrance.COST: Free. Go to Website 10 What to Tell Your Family When They Ask What to Get Your Kids I bet you know what I'm going to say here! But I have made a list of things that are meaningful and memorable with links to gifts of experiences! Go to Blog Post 11 Outdoor-Places-to-Go Gifts for Southern California Families This is everything you need to know about gifts of experiences. Send this post and the one above (#8) to your loved ones and let them choose the experience! It can be a surprise and they can feel like they are gifting you with something you can use all year! Go to Blog Post 12 Places to Help OC Non-Profits (& Play!) While You Shop Local I have never seen this list ANYWHERE else and it doesn't get much traffic because no one even knows to search for it. But what if you could go play somewhere and do your gift shopping at the gift shop that benefits the nonprofit while getting some unique items for your loved ones? I am always adding more places to the list, but don't forget these little shops! Go to Blog Post I will continue to add to it as we are out enjoying the season, but it’s a good start for now!The reason I don’t have too many EVENTS on my list is because I don’t believe kids need more SCHEDULED activities. I’d rather highlight opportunities for play or open-ended visits to holiday lights. I also included some daytime ideas. We do a mixture of all these things as we go through every day in December.The first 9 options in the list below have more details in the posts above! Here are 20 more classic family things to do in December that don’t take an event or much planning!29 Mostly Free Things to Do with Kids at Christmas in Orange County Dana Point Harbor Holiday Lights (and Boat Parade)Beach Christmas Tree at Crystal CoveCandlelight Walk & Holiday Lights at Heritage Hill Historical Park in Lake ForestHolidayz at the Park (Great Park in Irvine) with weekend photo backgrounds pop-upNewport Dunes Lighting of the Bay Santa’s Village at Irvine Regional ParkThe Snoopy House Holiday Display at Costa Mesa City HallFashion Island – 50 Nights of Coastal Lights (Multiple Nightly Lighting Shows with Snowfall)Holiday Light Show at The District Tustin (Nightly)Drive by Roger’s Gardens in Newport Beach to see the green & gold lights on the pine trees surrounding it (go inside if parking allows to see the holiday model train)Check your city or community center for light displays that last all monthWatch a holiday movie at homeMake a holiday recipe togetherDiscover a new holiday scent with candles or soap (candy cane, balsam)Get a special hot chocolate out at a restaurant/bakery or try new cocoa packets from the store (Peppermint Hot Cocoa from TJs or Abuelita brand from the grocery store)Put up decorations or a treeGo to a local mall to see the decorations (South Coast Plaza, Fashion Island, Downtown Disney)Drive around to see Christmas lights with the kids in pajamas – love to do this one as a surprise!Make a Christmas music playlist or find out everyone’s favorite Christmas tuneUse the playlist for a freeze dance partyTake a walk through your neighborhood and see what lights and decorations are upBusy Toddler had the idea of putting up a wrapping station for kids with leftover wrapping paper scrapsCheck out library books about the holidays or winter seasonMake and mail a card to someone you are thinking about this seasonGet a peppermint frosty at Wendy’s (the junior size is only $.99) or a peppermint chip milkshake to share at Chick-fil-A for $6 (or soft serve ice cream with peppermint chips)– or some other inexpensive holiday treat at your favorite spotMeet friends you haven’t seen all year at a park for playtimeTry a soup picnic on a chilly nightEarly (4pm-5pm!) beach sunset viewing Start a new holiday tradition with your family! Make one up! When I was 5 years old, my dad unwittingly started the tradition of taking me and my younger sister out to go Christmas shopping for mom followed by dinner (now that I’m older I see the reason was so that mom could wrap presents). It turned into something we do every year!! It’s the only night all year my sis and I have our dad to ourselves and it’s the BEST! We’re at 45+ years and look forward to it!Ideas for Paid “Worth It” SplurgesBasically, I think you CAN get away with going through the holidays spending less than $20 to see & do some pretty cool stuff (see that list above!). Many of the FREE things are available multiple nights or throughout the season so you won’t miss them.Some of the paid events we like continue on even after Christmas. You do not need to do a paid event to enjoy the holidays!Our system? We pick and choose our free things every year depending on everyone’s mood and energy level. It’s OKAY if we miss out on some events. And then we sometimes pick ONE paid thing to do. Tickets usually sell out, so we have to commit early.How to decide? I like to spend my dollars where they do good. So, we’ve invested in experiences at:Tanaka Farms Hikari Festival of Lights 2024 (Irvine) – Our dollars go to the Tanaka family and helps sustain the farm where I like to buy produce throughout the year.Sherman Library & Gardens: Night of 1000 Lights 2024 (Newport Beach) – Our admission supports the gardens and their nonprofit.Enchanted Forest of Light at Descanso Gardens 2024 (La Cañada-Flintridge) – also supports the gardens and that nonprofit.Other ideas that are outdoorsy at the holidays:Sawdust Festival Winter Fantasy 2024 (Laguna Beach) – Here’s a tip. If you go during summer and get the annual pass, it will get you in free to the Winter Fantasy.Winter Lights: A Journey Home at Discovery Cube 2024 (Santa Ana) – A holiday show and festival that costs a bit more than admission. Great if you are member.Luminaria Nights at California Botanic Garden 2024 (Claremont/LA) – only one weekend in December.Astra Lumina Night Walk at South Coast Botanic Garden 2024 (Palos Verdes / LA) – heard this is best for adults or older kids. Or date night!Lightscape at San Diego Botanic Garden 2024Lightscape at LA Arboretum (not happening for 2024)LA Zoo Lights: Animals Aglow 2024Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo 2024Outdoor ice skating (most rinks cost $10-$30 per person — and only for kids ages 3 & up)Santa Ana Winter Village (not happening in 2024)Irvine SpectrumNewport Dunes Ice Skating Rink (changed from Fire & Ice Festival to Fire & Lights Festival – so no ice skating this year)Originally published in December 2023.The post Christmas in Orange County: 29 Mostly FREE Things to Do with Kids (2024) appeared first on Fun Orange County Parks.

Irvine Regional Park is located in Orange, but you’ll pass through Tustin, Irvine, and Orange as you climb Jamboree to reach this massive regional park. I even filed it under all three cities since it’s close to them all and worth a little extra drive. You can get in with your OC Parks annual pass or pay $3 at the gate on weekdays ($5 on weekends or more on holidays). You’ll find the scoop on the FOUR playgrounds in this blog post – plus all the other fun things for families to do at Irvine Regional Park.Directions to Irvine Regional Park in Orange County, CA: Follow Jamboree Road east to where it dead ends. You’ll need to go through an entrance kiosk and pay to park. (Address: 1 Irvine Park Road, Orange) MAP to Irvine Regional Park in OrangePlaygrounds at Irvine Regional ParkFOUR playgrounds within one park!You will probably need to look at the Park Map as you go through the playground descriptions below, but I have tried to make it easy and matched it up with the map from April 2022.This park would my pick for a fall/winter/spring birthday party – it has bathrooms and reservable picnic areas with grills. (The private Irvine Park Railroad also offers birthday party packages).Playground Near the Entrance – Park in Lot BMy favorite play area is visible from the entrance (park in Lot B). Love the large boulders accenting play area. 4 big kid and 2 baby swings. Zip track and lots of slides.The newest addition is a HUGE Group Picnic Area called Falcon Flats.Playground Nearest Outdoor Education Center – Park in Lot CLearn to ride bikes near play area by Sycamore Hill. Start on the grassy hill and continue in the parking lot. This play area has swings, too. Zip tracks and monkey bars.On Tuesdays, the Farmer’s Market is right next to this playground from 9am-1pm.Small Playground Near Zoo and Lake – Park in Lot USmallest play area near Squirrel Square Group Picnic Area and parking Lot U. This one is closest to the zoo and lake. But no swings here – just fun little ride-on spring animals.Playground at the Far End of the Park – Park in Lot M or Lot RThe last play area is tucked in a wooded area between parking lot M and R. You’ll have to walk in from either lot. On the map, this shows as two playgrounds, but I count it as one because you can park once and access both.2 baby swings and 4 big kid swings.This is also the location of the fitness equipment for working out outdoors.Lake at Irvine Regional ParkThe lakes and waterfalls provide unique opportunities for family photos.There is also Wheel Fun Rentals where you can rent paddle boats to go out on the lake.And the lake is stocked with fish for those who like to do that!Going to the OC Zoo at Irvine Regional ParkThis is such a favorite destination! It’s cheap – only $2 for adults. The animals are mostly rescues and mostly wildlife that you can see in nature in Orange County. There’s also a petting zoo area.In 2022, the OC Zoo was updated with a new Large Mammal Exhibit for cougars and a jaguar.Visit Irvine Park Railroad at Irvine Regional ParkIrvine Park Railroad is a nice outing any time of year for the sweet little train ride. But they really amp things up for holidays! There are annual events like the Pumpkin Patch and Christmas Train. You can visit for free and walk the grounds, but they charge for the activity booths and train rides.The Christmas Train features a train ride to the North Pole to visit Santa. It’s fun to be at the park on a chilly December night and drink hot chocolate in the dark.Surrey Cart and Paddle Boat Rides at Irvine Regional ParkThere’s a snack bar near the zoo and Wheel Fun Rentals rents out surrey carts and paddleboats from this location.Nature Center at Irvine Regional ParkIf you’re lucky, you’ll get there on a weekend when there are volunteers to staff the nature center. There are lots of hands-on activities for kids and educational displays about our local natural history. The last time we visited, the center was open from 11:30am to 3:30pm on Saturday and Sunday — and sometimes during those hours on weekdays if they have a volunteer.This nature center is also on my list of 17+ Family-Friendly Nature Centers in Orange County!Exercise Course at Irvine Regional ParkThere is a full bank of exercise equipment near the last playgrounds in between Lot M and Lot R. Be Aware:Parking can be hard to come by when there are special events with LONG lines of cars extended far out of the park onto Jamboree!  So bring your patience and try to get there early. During October, they have a $10 parking option 1 mile away at Santiago Canyon College.Get a map at the entrance to locate the play areas and reference the numbered parking lots.Checklist:Multiple lots ($3-$5 per entry into park, except more on holidays)Bark play surface at most playgrounds, although some have switch to recycled rubberDrinking fountains at each play areaBathrooms at each playground and near picnic areasPlenty of shade with large trees surrounding the playgroundsEasy to supervise kids at each playground with tons of room to roamKing of all picnic parks! Grills and picnic tables everywhere for large or small groups.Trash cans nearer to parking lots than play areas.Great for wildlife viewing – look for peacocks roaming the park.OC Zoo charges $2 (kids under 2 free) – Restrooms inside the zoo and inside the zoo parking lots. Try the Scavenger Hunt brochure available at the ticket booth for school-age readers – finish it and get a prize.Park opens at 6 a.m. and closes at 6 p.m. (Fall and Winter Hours) or closes at 9 p.m. (Spring and Summer Hours).Official OCParks.com page for Irvine ParkFind other nearby parks in my Central OC Parks and Playgrounds indexPrivately-owned enterprises charging their own fees – but located inside the park:Irvine Park Railroad ($8 activity tickets – more for special events)Pony rides – only Tues through Sun ($8) – closed MondaysHorse trail rides (Country Trails & Riding School – $80-$180)Originally published November 2008.The post Irvine Regional Park=4 Playgrounds + 1 Zoo + 1 Railroad + 1 Lake + Lots of Ponies appeared first on Fun Orange County Parks.

Are you looking to find out about holiday lights at Dana Point Harbor 2024?  I feel like IlluminOcean in Dana Point Harbor made a big impression on people. It was a holiday lights extravaganza that lasted only one year (2014). IlluminOcean was, for the most part, not a static light display. Most of the lights moved or had some sort of animated features and sounds to go along with them. They even had special 3D glasses to view the show. You can see what I mean with my video of this light tunnel. The public loved it and so did the harbor businesses. Ever since that year, there are holiday lights at Dana Point Harbor that are FREE to enjoy.Video of the 2014 IlluminOcean Light TunnelsDana Point Harbor Holiday Light Displays for 2024Local dad and CEO, Bruce Brenon, of Shine Illumination comes up with new concepts every year (while keeping the old favorites)! Follow the @shineillumination account on Instagram to get current news about their displays all over our area.The light display will start on November 13th, 2024 and will run through January 12th, 2025.In the past, there are static light displays that the kids will love with candy cane pillars and lighted stars hanging above. This area with starbursts overhead and the impression of snow falling is called Candy Cane Lane.Highlights of Holiday Lights at Dana Point HarborIt’s FREE!Dana Point Harbor Christmas lights 2024 runs from November 13th through January 12th. The lights stay on from dusk until dawn.The candy cane light lane is a favorite. Little kids in strollers have the best view because there are features up on the “ceiling.”Lots of the eucalyptus trees used to be lit up with green and blue along the medians and the parks that line the harbor, but they cut down the eucalyptus in 2020. Even the big tree that used to be at the roundabout in the parking lot is now gone as of 2022. (Insert sad face!) Instead, there was a tree-sized ornament tree there in 2023.There should be themed light exhibits for 2024 including a giant whale sculpture, lit-up palm trees, a giant beach ball ornament stack, and the popular “Merry Kiss Me” arch.There is often a HUGE welcome light display as you come to the entrance of the harbor. You can take photos in the belly of the whale.New a few years ago were some large statues which are fun for Instagram photo opps.What is Merry Kiss Me? Merry Kiss Me Dana Point 2024 is a holiday light display that appears in many, many Insta posts this time of year! Couples flock here like it is mistletoe. Take your photo and share with a #MerryKissMe hashtag. #HappyHarborDays and #HolidaysattheHarbor are the other hashtags for this spot at Dana Point Harbor this time of year.Many years, you can drive down towards Baby Beach just past the Marina Inn and the harbor offices to experience blue and green lights on the trees that line the road. How to Visit the Dana Point Harbor LightsHow much does it cost? $0! You can see these lights for free.Dana Point Harbor Lights 2024 Location and Directions: The Dana Point lights address is the same as Dana Point Harbor: 34571 Golden Lantern Street, Dana Point, CA. If you drive down Golden Lantern towards the harbor, you will dead end right into it. If you are taking Interstate 5, exit at Dana Point Harbor/Beach Cities and follow the signs to the harbor, making a left onto Del Obispo towards Doheny State Beach.Free parking for holiday lights at Dana Point Harbor around the shops (if you can find it). Surprisingly, one year we went on Holiday Boat Parade night and got a spot super close with no trouble! Hours: Come in the evening on a weeknight and you’ll probably find easy parking! Maybe bring the kids in their pajamas? The lights are on from dusk until dawn. Lights are on from November 13, 2024 until January 12, 2025.Restrooms at Dana Point Harbor are near Dana Wharf — AND outside the old Harbor Grill Restaurant (closed in Fall 2022) across from Beach Harbor Pizza.Dana Point Harbor Restaurants open for take-out. Coffee Importers – Espresso Bar & Scoop Deck is a great place to get a scoop of Lapperts Ice Cream or a hot cocoa. It’s open until 9pm daily.Harpoon Henry’s has seating downstairs on their outdoor patio which would be a fun place to watch the lights come on and people walk by. They have a Happy Hour patio menu which includes some pretty yummy appetizers and entrees on M-F from 4pm-7pm, Sat 12pm-4pm, and Sun 10am-2pm.Be AwareMore crowds on weekends and during the Holiday Boat Parade nights.There used to be signs everywhere that said “don’t touch the lights” so you might want to prep the kids ahead of time to look, but don’t touch.Dana Point Boat Parade & Event InformationThe 2024 “Santa’s Seaside Carnival” Boat Parade of Lights is scheduled for the weekend of December 13th-15th starting at 6:30pm.Additional Holiday Happenings:Little Folk Club returns December 13th and invites children of all ages to bring their favorite instrument for a special Christmas sing-along. To spread the holiday cheer, face painting and crafts for little ones will also be available. Little Folk Club takes place in the Clock Courtyard at Mariner’s Village from 10 – 11 a.m. The Pet Project Foundation will host its annual Santa Paws on December 7 & 8 from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. hosted at Dana Point Harbor Mariner’s Village courtyard. Pet photos with Santa will be available for a small donation with all proceeds directly supporting the Pet Project Foundation.Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching will also host the annual Boat Rides with Santa on December 7 and 8 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Take photos with Santa and his holiday helpers on this adventure at sea for a $5 donation with proceeds supporting Soroptimist of Capistrano Bay. Reservations will be required. Visit danawharf.com for more information and to purchase tickets.Visit the Harbor events calendar on their website for additional holiday happenings.If you want more inspiration for celebrating the holidays and making new family traditions, then make sure you read my post about Christmas in Orange County: Mostly Free Things to Do for Families (+ Gift Ideas). Originally published in 2014.The post Holiday Lights at Dana Point Harbor 2024 appeared first on Fun Orange County Parks.

Event date: October 30, 2024 Event Time: 01:00 PM - 02:30 PM

Event dates: November 25, 2024 - November 27, 2024Event Time: 09:00 AM - 12:00 PMLocation: 27745 Alicia ParkwayLaguna Niguel, CA 92677

Event date: November 16, 2024 Event Time: 08:00 AM - 12:00 PMLocation: Aliso Niguel High School28000 Wolverine WayAliso Niguel, CA 92656

Our family got in the habit of seeking out restaurant buffet options for Thanksgiving dinner back when we used to celebrate with my in-laws. It’s kind of an annual hobby to figure out good places to go.Unfortunately, it takes some digging to find out which restaurants offer a Thanksgiving BUFFET (not just a dinner) and then it’s challenging to navigate popular review sites which make you jump through hoops with photo slideshows or clicking to their site instead of another.I just wanted a simple LIST split into Thanksgiving Buffets, Thanksgiving Dinner, and even a Thanksgiving To Go or Thanksgiving Takeout options for taking the meal home.I hope my list helps you make plans and answers your “What restaurants are open for takeout on Thanksgiving?” and “What’s open on Thanksgiving?” questions this year. Thanksgiving falls on Thursday, November 28th in 2024.THANKSGIVING IS LATE THIS YEAR — I revise my list in late October / early November every year and many times leading up to the holiday – so check back often. Restaurants often don’t release their Thanksgiving reservations or menu until late October!2024 Thanksgiving Dinners Orange CountyI go through and check all the links multiple times each week – and reservations do start getting booked at the end of November!If it isn’t updated I will have a 2023 marker at the beginning of the post, then you can at least get an idea from 2023 menus and prices. I will also add NEW markers for places readers suggest that are newly added for 2024. As of October 21, 2024 (my last edit), there are a number of restaurants that have released their 2024 menus and reservations.2024 Thanksgiving Buffets in Orange CountyWe are back to 14+ Thanksgiving buffets! I can’t tell you the BEST Thanksgiving buffet in Orange County, but you should be able to figure out which one is a good fit for you from this list!Look further down the post for:Thanksgiving dine-in restaurantsThanksgiving takeout optionsand Thanksgiving treats.Thanksgiving Food Coma at Paséa in Huntington Beach – “Celebrate Thanksgiving with the 6th annual Food Coma buffet in Paséa’s Sapphire Ballroom, complete with carving stations, live music, favorite fall dishes, photo ops, a kids buffet and more.” $135 for adults, $65 for kids 5 – 12 years old, complimentary for kids 4 years old and younger. Pricing excludes tax and gratuity. Two hour maximum seating time. For large parties, please ensure all tickets are purchased together in one order. You do have to purchase NON-REFUNDABLE TICKETS at the time you reserve. Here’s the menu.The Resort at Pelican Hill in Newport Beach has 2 buffet options for 2024!The Great Room Lobby Lounge & Terrace Thanksgiving Buffet (11am-8:30pm) – Buffet Menu ($165 per adult, $55 for children 12 and under. Pricing excludes additional alcohol, tax & service charge. 20% gratuity will be added to parties of 6 or more.)Pelican Grill & Bar Thanksgiving BUFFET (11am-8:30pm) – Buffet Menu ($235 per adult, $55 for children 12 and under. Pricing excludes additional alcohol, tax & service charge. 20% gratuity will be added to parties of 6 or more.)Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel Thanksgiving Brunch Buffet ($250 per guest, separate child pricing not listed on the ticket page. Pricing is exclusive of tax and 25% F&B House and Staff Charge. Seating is pre-assigned in event space.). It is an incredible spread, but you must pre-pay so there are no cancellations. Thanksgiving Dinner Buffet at The Laguna Cliffs Marriott above Dana Point Harbor – A Thanksgiving dinner buffet from 2pm-7pm for $165 per adult, $79 for 4yo-11yo children. Tax & gratuity not included.(During Holidays at the Disneyland Resort, Goofy’s Kitchen will offer a festive buffet for breakfast, brunch and dinner. Book your holiday meal starting October 24, 2024.) 2023 Info: Goofy’s Kitchen at Disneyland Hotel – Brunch Buffet ($60 plus tax adults – 10 & up, $32 plus tax kids – 3-9) and Dinner Buffet ($85 plus tax adults – 10 & up, $35 plus tax kids – 3-9)Mickey’s Holiday Pajama Party Character Brunch OR Thanksgiving Character Dinner — Both on Thanksgiving at Storyteller’s Cafe at Disneyland Grand Californian Hotel – 7am-1pm Brunch Buffet ($65 plus tax per adult (ages 10 and up) and $36 plus tax per child (ages 3 to 9). Prices do not include tax and gratuities) and 1:15pm-9pm Dinner Buffet ($85 plus tax per adult (ages 10 and up) and $39 plus tax per child (ages 3 to 9). Prices do not include tax and gratuities)Tangerine Room at the Westin Anaheim Resort – This may be your best bet for variety of food at a relatively reasonable price ($85 adult, $45 for kids 12 and under – tax & gratuity not included). Click on the Thanksgiving menu tab. Reserve through Open Table.Majestic Garden Hotel near Disneyland and their Garden Court Bistro Thanksgiving Buffet – limited items, but lower price. ($47 adults, $19.95 children 3-10 years of age, children 2 and under free).Balboa Bay Resort Thanksgiving Buffet (adults $145, children $55 and does not include tax or gratuity. Members and hotel guests enjoy special pricing. 7 day cancellation policy.)O’Neill’s Bar & Grill at Arroyo Trabuco Golf Club in Mission Viejo ($110 per adult or with unlimited Champagne option for $130, $49.95 for kids 5-12 years old with children under 4 free.) Tax and 20% service charge will be automatically added.Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Thanksgiving Buffet Brunch – 12pm-4pm buffet for $145 adults, $75 kids ages 4-12. Age 3 and under free. Sales tax and 20% gratuity added. $50 deposit to secure your reservation.Mrs. Knotts Chicken Dinner Restaurant at Knotts Berry Farm – Thanksgiving Champagne Brunch – “Enjoy a Thanksgiving buffet that includes all the classics like turkey, stuffing, and mashed potatoes, plus the home-style goodness of Mrs. Knott’s fried chicken and countless other offerings. Plus champagne or pumpkin cider!” Book ahead of time starting October 28th. Adults are $72, Seniors 62+ are $65, Children 3-11 are $35.NOT in OC, but definitely an experience! Hotel Del Coronado in San Diego is an iconic historic property with a pretty amazing Thanksgiving buffet which will be “in the beautifully restored Crown Room and Coronet Rooms, and the Ocean Ballroom featuring a recently discovered and preserved original 1888 fresco mural.” It’s worth going for the dessert buffet alone! $205 adults when reservations made before November 15th and $100 for children (5-10 years old). Children 4 and under get complimentary buffet with paid adult.Aquarium of the Pacific Thanksgiving Lunch (Long Beach) – Thanksgiving lunch buffet between 11am-4pm and the price of the buffet includes Aquarium admission for non-members. “You can meet over 12,000 animals from the world’s largest ocean, then savor a traditional spread to be served buffet style on the Rooftop Veranda overlooking Rainbow Harbor. A full cash bar and seasonal cocktails will be available for purchase.” $95 per adult (ages 12+), $72.50 per Child (ages 3-11) includes Aquarium admission. Members get a bit of a discount since they already get aquarium admission! $70 per adult Aquarium member, $47.50 per Aquarium member child.Not updated for 2024 YET!2023 Heirloom Farmhouse Kitchen Thanksgiving Buffet ($105 per adult, $35 per child ages 12 & under + tax and 20% service charge) – 2 hour max dining time and you need to pay for parking.2023 Hendrix Restaurant in Dana Point – Thanksgiving Buffet (adults $85, kids 12 years and under $19)2023 Driftwood Kitchen Laguna Beach – Thanksgiving Buffet ($125 per person, $25 kids 12 and under)2023 El Torito All-You-Can-Eat Thanksgiving Buffet (Irvine, Tustin, Westminster, Yorba Linda) – “Come enjoy an All-You-Can-Eat Thanksgiving Buffet with a Turkey and Ham carving station, apple-jalapeno stuffing, chipotle-honey sweet potatoes, green bean casserole, Taco Station, Your Mexican Favorites, Soups and Salads, Dessert Bar with Pumpkin Pie, Unlimited Champagne and more! We will also be offering $5 Margaritas and Beers all-day.” Adults $38 and Kids $12.Notes:I included prices for the buffets just for comparison purposes. Some of these restaurants may already be fully booked for the holiday.In some cases, you may need to pay in advance at the time you make your Thanksgiving reservation. Make sure you call and confirm prices and details when you make your reservation.Some reservations are brunch, some midday meals, some dinner.These prices can be daunting and they can be something you save up for all year long. We have eaten humble meals at home and saved up for these kinds of incredibly memorable experiences. I do have to say that 2024 prices are CRAZY high compared to when I started this list years ago.2024 Thanksgiving Dine-In Dinners in Orange CountyGreat Maple (Anaheim location ONLY at Pixar Place Hotel) – Serving a special Thanksgiving prix-fixe in addition to their All-Day Menu. “Enjoy specials like the Maple Brined Turkey & Buttermilk Fried Turkey Duo, or the Rosemary Apple Cider Ham & Luxardo Glazed Ham Duo (or both!) served with all the fixings. Don’t forget to save room for dessert! Reservations can be made on their website: thegreatmaple.com/reservations. Newport Beach and Pasadena locations will be closed on Thanksgiving Day.Citrus City Grille in Orange – 4-course Prix-Fix menu for $55 adults and $25 children. Or order off the menu for a la carte items.Texas de Brazil in Irvine – Serving regular dinner menu and pricing all day long. Location opens at 11am. Make reservations.Montage Laguna Beach has two options. One is a family-style meal and the other is ordering off a set menu. *Price per person excludes tax and service charge. Reservations required and a 48-hour cancellation policy applies.Montage Laguna Beach “Studio Family Style Thanksgiving Feast” (set menu $230+ per adult, $55+ per child)Montage Laguna Beach “The Loft Tasting Menu” (four courses $185+ per adult, $55 per child ages 4-12)Summit House OC in Fullerton – 3 course dine-in menuFleming’s Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar 3-Course Thanksgiving – from 11am-8pm. 3-course and children’s menu at Newport Beach and Anaheim locations. Water Grill in Costa Mesa – 3-course Thanksgiving menu in addition to regular menu.The RANCH Restaurant and Saloon Anaheim – Thanksgiving menu where you pay for what you order and a children’s menu for $45. 2pm to 8pm.Five Crowns in Corona del Mar – this is a Lawry’s restaurant so Prime Rib is the main feature on their Thanksgiving menu.Bayside Restaurant Newport Beach – 3-course Thanksgiving menu ($82 per adult, $39 per child 12 and under).Chart House in Dana Point – Thanksgiving with a view. This is part of the Landry’s family of restaurants. $69-$78 for meals.Pacific Hideaway Thanksgiving Dinner Special – $85 at the Kimpton Shorebreak HotelMcCormick & Schmicks Restaurant in Anaheim – Traditional Turkey Dinner for dining in ($39 adults, $15 kids).The Winery Restaurant (Tustin) – 3 course Thanksgiving menu for $85The Capital Grille in Costa Mesa – Thanksgiving plates served family style Kings Fish House in Laguna Hills – see the Thanksgiving menu for the 3 course meal Black Angus (Fountain Valley, Buena Park, Santa Ana) – Turkey Feast for $29.99 (adults) and $12.99 (kids). Not updated for 2024 YET!2023 Prego Restaurant at The District in Tustin – Italian dine-in specials priced separately, also 3 Course Traditional Dine-In Menu (adults $65, children under 10 $30). There is a to go option in the next section.2023 Brio Tuscany Grille in Dana Point – Dine in from 2pm-7pm. Menu not available for dine-in, but also offering takeout.2023 Bosscat Kitchen & Libations in Orange and Irvine – Dine in menu with choice of Entrees, Accompaniments, and Desserts. $60/person (+$10 if you choose the Prime Rib entree). Separate web pages for Irvine menu and Orange menu.2023 Orange Hill Restaurant – Thanksgiving Day Experience – 4 course menu for Thanksgiving Brunch or Seasonal Dinner menu ($92 adults, $35 children, $30 Bottomless Mimosas)2023 Bistango Fine Dining in Irvine – Prix-Fixe menu for $79 for adults or kids for $392023 Salt Creek Grille in Dana Point – Go to Menus tab and then click on the drop-down for More Menus to see their Thanksgiving offering. Traditional Thanksgiving Dinner is $55 adults and $25 for children – with a choice of starter and dessert. Also vegetarian, fish, and prime rib options available for a slightly different price.2023 Harvest Restaurant at the The Ranch Laguna Beach – Thanksgiving menu with a la carte specials2023 Habana in Irvine Spectrum or Costa Mesa – see their Cuban cuisine Thanksgiving menu on the 3 course menu for $65 per person2023 Lucille’s Smokehouse BBQ Thanksgiving Dinner – ($34.99 for adults, $18.99 for kids).2023 Wind & Sea Restaurant in Dana Point Harbor – Thanksgiving Dinner with choice of fresh oven-roasted turkey, fresh grilled Atlantic salmon, or prime top sirloin steak with all the trimmings for $49-$59 per person with children eating at half price.2023 Harpoon Henry’s in Dana Point Harbor – Dinners similar to Wind & Sea with choice of oven roasted turkey ($49), Atlantic salmon ($49), mahi-mahi macadamia ($49), or prime rib ($65) and each entree includes: a Caesar salad, mashed potatoes, gravy, stuffing, seasonal vegetables, cranberry sauce, warm dinner rolls, and pumpkin pie. Children selections for those under 12 years old (turkey, turkey sliders, hamburger sliders, prime rib).2023 Duke’s Huntington Beach – Traditional Thanksgiving Dinner special with a Duke’s twist or order from the regular menu. ($33 adults, $16 kids). Takeout options, too. Ocean view!2023 Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach – Watertable Restaurant 3-course Thanksgiving meal for $95/per person.2023 Jack’s Restaurant in Dana Point – Thanksgiving menu where you pay for what you order. Maximum 8 guests.Choosing Your Options for Thanksgiving Dinner To GoWe have done our Thanksgivings so many different ways over the years.You can get the complete meal or just parts of the meal while you prepare the rest at home.As I see it, here are your options:Option #1 – You can order only the MAIN COURSE (turkey, prime rib, vegetarian option) and make the SIDES and DESSERTS yourself.Option #2 – You can order just the MAIN COURSE and SIDES, but make the DESSERTS yourself.Option #3 – You can order the whole deal: MAIN COURSE, SIDES, and DESSERTS.Option #4 – You can concentrate on making a homemade Thanksgiving feast and just grab DESSERTS from your favorite bakery or specialty grocery.Many of these are ORDER AHEAD – so don’t wait until the last minute to put in your order! Especially this year, they may need some extra time to get supplies.Where to Order Thanksgiving Dinner Takeout in Orange CountyStefano’s Golden Baked Hams in Yorba Linda (feed 4-6 people with a holiday ham or turkey plus 6 sides for $215)Bad to the Bone BBQ in San Juan Capistrano – order your dinner ahead of time and reheat at home on Thanksgiving DayHeritage Craft Barbecue in San Juan Capistrano – check out their pre-order which must be in by November 18th and it sells out fast!!!Lucille’s Smokehouse BBQ – Get Thanksgiving Family Feast which feeds 10 or more for $319.99 or Thanksgiving Supper which serves 6 or more for $209.99. You can also just order the main course protein or desserts. Lots of options here! Must pre-order.The Capital Grille in Costa Mesa – Thanksgiving sides at home. Get a full set up of prepared sides to serve 4 people for $135.Urban Plates – Family meals, sides, desserts to go. Locations in Brea, Tustin at the Marketplace, Irvine, Aliso Viejo. $175 for a feast that serves 6-8 people includes 2 sides, $30 for additional sides by the pan.McCormick & Schmicks in Anaheim – order a Thanksgiving Feast To Go for 4 people for $120.00. Must place orders before November 25th.Popeye’s – Order your Cajun-Style Turkey and have it delivered to your door. $99 for turkey. “The Cajun-Style Turkey is delivered to your door pre-cooked so all you have to do is thaw, heat, serve & enjoy. Feeds approximately 8-12 people.”Black Angus (Fountain Valley, Buena Park, Santa Ana) – Turkey feasts to go for 4 ($107), 8 ($211), or 12 people ($315) with the option for ordering whole pumpkin piesMrs. Knott’s Chicken Dinner Restaurant Thanksgiving  Turkey or Ham Take Home Dinners – More info to come in November.Whole Foods Market – shop holiday meals by entering your state/store.Gelson‘s – Order prepared holiday meals online and pickupA few other places to pick up your turkey if you are cooking at home:Mother’s Market – Thanksgiving meals even with vegan optionsBristol FarmsWild Fork (Laguna Niguel, Costa Mesa, Mission Viejo)The Butchery (Costa Mesa, Crystal Cove)Not updated for 2024 YET!2023 Prego Restaurant at The District in Tustin – 2 Course Traditional Thanksgiving Feast to Go ($50 per person). 1st course is a Caesar salad, 2nd course is the Main + Sides: “Slow Roasted All White Meat Turkey, Green Beans & Carrots, Creamy Potato Purée, Focaccia Stuffing, Turkey Gravy & House Cranberry.” Dessert is an add-on. Orders must be placed by November 21st.2023 The Yellow Chilli at The District in Tustin – Meal to serve 4-6 people includes: “Whole Tandoori Chicken, Grilled Masala Potatoes, Saffron Rice, Makhanwala Paneer, Garlic Naan, Butter Naan, Raita, Pumpkin Cake.” Must order by noon on November 22nd. Only $109 for the full feast.2023 Bosscat Kitchen & Libations in Orange and Irvine – Takeout feast for 4 people at $199. Separate web pages for Irvine menu and Orange menu (just scroll down past the dine in menu).2023 Taste Catering in Lake Forest – A reader let me know she caters her Thanksgiving meal from this spot. There is an eatery serving lunch during the week, but they offer catering orders for pickup on Thanksgiving day — you must pre-order.2023 Texas de Brazil in Irvine – “Pre-order your Thanksgiving feast today! With two sizing options to feed all of your friends & family, our Thanksgiving takeout feasts come fully cooked and ready to reheat at home with instructions provided.” Sizing options feed 4-10 people. 2023 Hendrix Restaurant Thanksgiving Feast To Go (feeds 8-10 people for $350, order by November 20th and pick up between 11am and 2pm on Thanksgiving Day)2023 Polly’s Pies (Fullerton, Huntington Beach, Laguna Hills, Los Alamitos, Orange, Santa Ana, Yorba Linda) – Lots of options to feed 6 or more with a Whole Turkey Feast $189.99 plus tax and tin deposit, Sliced Ham Feast $179.99 plus tax and tin deposit, Everything But the Bird with sides only $89.99 plus tax and tin deposit, and all of their Famous Pies priced individually.2023 Duke’s Huntington Beach – You can get a single portion of the Thanksgiving meal to go for $33. Or you can feed a family of 4 for $125. Extra sides and desserts available a la carte.2023 Brio Tuscany Grille in Dana Point – To-Go options are: Complete Traditional Turkey Breast Dinner To-Go ($169), Chicken Parmesan Meal ($149), Eggplant Parmesan Meal – Vegetarian ($149), or Herb Roasted Black Angus Tenderloin ($269). Must order by November 20th.2023 Bristol Farms – Order fully cooked meals from the deli department. Choose pickup or delivery. Locations in Irvine at Irvine Spectrum, Newport Beach, and Yorba Linda.2023 Albertson’s/Pavilions/Vons Market – Order turkey, ham, or roast beef holiday meals (choose your store, this link is set to Pavilions on Alicia Parkway)2023 Ralphs – order “Holiday Meal Bundles” by choosing your storeThanksgiving TreatsUrth Caffé – offers pre-order for their “famous” Thanksgiving pies to pick up in the days before Thanksgiving. There are locations in Orange and Laguna Beach.2023 Porto’s Bakery Thanksgiving – has a few seasonal options including a Turkey & Gravy version of their delectable potato balls! (I tried and they are YUM!). Also pumpkin cheesecake and danishes.2023 Blue Scoop Creamery – Ice cream pies for Thanksgiving!! They have Bourbon Pecan Chip, Pumpkin, or Cookies & Cream.2023 Elisa Marie Baking – a favorite stand at Farmer’s Markets and you can find her bakery items at hotels & gourmet food shops in OC. She has a Thanksgiving menu with pies, cornbread, and pecan bars. Yum! Support a small business woman!2023 Pop Pie Co. in Costa Mesa – Offering Thanksgiving Pies. Pre-sale until Friday, November 17th. 9 inch pies for 6-8 people. Choose from: Pumpkin Pie, Bourbon Pecan, Salted Caramel Apple Crumble, or Apple Cranberry Ginger Crumble.If you’re looking for fun things to do Thanksgiving week, read my post on 7 Fun Ways to #OptOutside During Thanksgiving!The post 14+ Thanksgiving Buffet and Restaurant Dinners in Orange County for 2024 appeared first on Fun Orange County Parks.

In this report, you’ll find a high-level snapshot of the trends shaping the market for each neighborhood across the SoCal region, from the Central Coast to Orange County. The full report is available here: SoCal Q3 2024 Market (Micro) Insights Report.The post SoCal Quarterly Market Insights Report: Q3 2024 first appeared on California Real Estate Blog.

In this report, you’ll find a high-level snapshot of the trends shaping the market for each neighborhood across Hawai’i. The full report is available here: Hawai’i Q3 2024 Market (Micro) Insights Report.The post Hawai’i Quarterly Market Insights Report: Q3 2024 first appeared on California Real Estate Blog.

Event date: October 26, 2024 Event Time: 05:00 PM - 09:00 PMLocation: 27745 Alicia ParkwayLaguna Niguel, CA 92677

I found Brush Canyon Park in Yorba Linda one day by looking at Google maps and seeing just how darn close it is to the BNSF train tracks. I knew it was worth a visit just to see how close it really was. The train tracks are RIGHT THERE – just on the other side of a fence that you can see right through (see the BNSF below?). A dream playground for any train loving kiddo!Directions to Brush Canyon Park in Yorba Linda: The 241 Tollroad dumps out right near Gypsum Canyon Road. Or if you are on the 91 Freeway, exit at Gypsum Canyon Road.  Drive across the bridge and turn right on La Palma Avenue.  It will wind around to your left and you will cross UNDER the train tracks at River Bend Drive. Brush Canyon is the first right after River Bend Drive.  Drive slowly along Brush Canyon, looking to your right. You’ll first come up on a large picnic shelter, basketball court, tennis courts, and sports field before you reach the playground and parking lot. (Park Address: 28282 Brush Canyon, Yorba Linda) MAP TO BRUSH CANYON PARK IN YORBA LINDAHighlights:Beautiful scenery – you really get the feel of being in a canyon with the hills rising up right in front of you.Even though you’re in a neighborhood park, it really feels like you’re close to nature. We’ve seen many butterflies and bluebirds hanging out here.If you were stuck in traffic on the 91 heading in or out of Orange County, this might be a good place to let the kids stretch their legs for a while.Even though the sign says the playground is recommended for 5-12 year olds, I thought it was ideal for younger kids.*We saw a grasshopper and climbed a tree on our visit.*Standing swings seemed to the highlight on the playground — and I can’t say I’ve seen them at very many playgrounds.*2 bench swings, 2 baby swingsBe Aware:There is a field for sports right next to the playground, and we have encountered youth sports on the weekends – but the playground area wasn’t very crowded while the kids were busy with their game.I imagine this one’s hot in the summer time with no shade on the playground. Nice and shaded for picnics, though.Checklist:Dedicated parking lotBark play surfaceBenches near the playground to view the kids.Restrooms also right  near the playground.2 large shaded picnic shelters, basketball court, tennis courts, sports field, and playground.Shaded picnic shelters available for reservation and permit through Yorba Linda Parks & Rec, 4845 Casa Loma Avenue, 714-961-7160.*Random input from Michele.Parks Nearby Brush Canyon ParkBox Canyon Park in Yorba LindaRonald Reagan Park in Anaheim HillsOriginally posted in May 2010.The post Brush Canyon Park in Yorba Linda: Dream Playground for Train Loving Kiddos appeared first on Fun Orange County Parks.

Mandeville Park in Laguna Hills is a true oasis surrounded by palm trees. The cool blues, greens, and tans of this neighborhood playground give it a very calming and relaxing feel. I wanted to laze around all day enjoying the view when we visited today.Directions to Mandeville Park in Laguna Hills: Hidden in the heart of Laguna Hills in the triangle between Moulton, La Paz and Alicia (not to be confused with nearby Mendocino Park). Mandeville Park is easily reached by turning on Mandeville from Moulton and following it up the hill to the dead end. Or you’ll find more parking by approaching from Alicia Pkwy to Aliso Hills, turn onto La Cienega and it winds up the hill until turning into Rio Grande Avenue. MAP to Mandeville Park in Laguna HillsRecommended by: DaraHighlights:Amazing view on clear days across the Saddleback Valley, all the way to the snow-capped San GabrielsA great sidewalk loop perfect for bikes or strollers (even equipped with fit trail stations for sit-ups and core workouts)Mostly recycled rubber play surface – even under the swings – but also a small sand area for sand toysDara says, “The park is in a fantastic neighborhood and I love that both my 6 and 2 year old are entertained.”4 bench swings and 2 baby swingsBe Aware:NO bathroomsThe fire pole on the large play set was too high for me to help my little one. Just watch the openings on the bigger structure.Checklist:Street parking in a quiet neighborhoodRecycled rubber and sand play surface with plenty of lawn for running and gamesNO restroomsLots of shade around the perimeter of the park. Nice breeze on the day I was there.Easy to sit and view kids from the variety of benches and picnic tablesPicnic area with four tables and two grills, plus more tables and benches scattered around parkFit trail is a nice addition2 separate drinking fountains (and even one for dogs)Official information on Mandeville Park from the City of Laguna HillsNearest public library: Laguna Hills Technology Branch inside the Laguna Hills Community Center Parks nearby Mandeville Park in Laguna Hills:Mendocino ParkEl Conejo ParkDinosaur ParkOriginally published in February 2009.The post Mandeville Park in Laguna Hills appeared first on Fun Orange County Parks.

Event date: November 9, 2024 Event Time: 08:30 AM - 11:30 AMLocation: 29751 Crown Valley ParkwayLaguna Niguel, CA 92677

Event dates: November 2, 2024 - November 9, 2024Event Time: 09:00 AM - 11:00 AMLocation: 100 Park AvenueAliso Viejo, CA 92656

Access City Managers weekly updates within the City of San Juan Capistrano.

Event date: October 15, 2024 Event Time: 07:00 PM - 11:59 PMLocation: 30111 Crown Valley ParkwayLaguna Niguel, CA 92677

This play idea fits into the stuff to build category.  I can always get kids excited about this project — no matter where we are and no matter the age of the kids. It’s one of those quieter outdoor activities, but it can only be done at the park or in the backyard where there’s a large palette of nature items. The kids are very deliberate in their choices and proud of the results.  This is much more simple than building mouse or fairy houses.Have the kids help you pick a nice spot. We like the sand. Then I sit with them while they collect “treasures” from all around the park. They bring it back to the spot and carefully places it in their “garden” or “home” or whatever they are choosing to make-believe that day. Depending on the age, I slowly back away and let them get lost in the activity with their siblings, cousins, or friends.The featured photo was some sort of home where they even used quills (feathers) to write letters on a piece of plywood that had washed up on the beach.  This next photo is sweet little garden using pine needles, pine cones, sticks and leaves. I love the dandelion in the pine cone.I took this photo when we visited a nearby park at the end of the day. Another little boy or girl had been having the same kind of fun that we do finding stuff to build. A campfire maybe?Let the kids get creative and lead the way. This is an especially great project for “collectors.” You know? The kids who want to bring all their treasures home from the park. Have them build something and then take a photo to put in an album for them.Originally published in May 2011.The post Stuff to Build appeared first on Fun Orange County Parks.