Kidsguide Holidayguide 2017

KIDSGUIDE WINTER 2017

MORE ON KIDSGUIDEMAGAZINE.COM

450+ Ideas for Crazy Fun!

Winter

camps

Cool shows

Chill

outings

Snow

Holiday

Guide

Gift guide

play

Using The HolidayGuide The 2017 Holiday Guide is filled with tons of winter-break fun! Here’s how it works: 1) When looking for something to do on a particular day, first check the individual dates for what’s happening—pages 12-50. 2) Then look at the “Monthlong Events” found on pages 4-12 for more suggestions. 3) Don’t miss the advertisers! They offer activities and services all month long. Be sure to tell them, “I saw you in Kidsguide.” 4) Sign up on our website for The Buzzz. This newsletter brings events directly to your inbox. 5) Finally, pick up a free copy of the 2017/18 fall/winter issue

Monthlong Events.................................................................4-12 Daily Events........................................................................12-50 Nutcracker Performances...................................................14-15 Snow Days...............................................................................20 Indoor Playgrounds..................................................................24 Ice Skating..........................................................................40-41 Holiday Performances.........................................................44-45 Tubing & Sledding....................................................................32 Attractions...............................................................................36 Winter Camps.....................................................................51-54 Spotlight on Kid-Friendly Businesses ...............................48-49 GiftGuide ............................................................................55-59

2 kidsguide holiday guide 2017

of Kidsguide available at libraries and kid-friendly retailers or view the digital version at www.kidsguidemagazine.com. It has thousands of additional ideas!

Important: Be sure to confirm dates and times before going to any activity—things can change. Plan ahead—some activities require reservations.

PUBLISHER • Liz Davis EDITORS • Rebecca White & Becca Saucedo AD SALES • Tiffany Salter CONTACT: 562.799.0140 info@kidsguidemagazine.com Legal stuff: “Kidsguide® Copyright 2017 Liz Davis. All rights reserved. No portion of this magazine may be used for a derivative work, reproduced or copied—mechanically, electronically, or by any other means, including photocopying—distributed, or displayed without prior written permission of the publisher. The materials herein are provided on an “as is” basis and the publisher of this magazine, KIDSGUIDE, Inc., expressly disclaims all warranties, including without limitation the warranties of currentness, correctness, completeness, merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, non infringement of intellectual property, and freedom from errors. KIDSGUIDE, Inc. assumes no liability or responsibility for any loss or injury arising out of errors, omissions, uses, or participation as a result of publication of all magazine editions to the fullest extent permitted by law. KIDSGUIDE, Inc. is not in any way recommending or endorsing any program, business, activity, or advertiser listed within this magazine. Names, addresses, fees, descriptions, and services listed in KIDSGUIDE are subject to change. We sincerely request that any errors be brought to the publisher’s attention so that they may be corrected in future editions.”

lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

SAN CLA TA US

A Nutcracker Holiday LIVE IC MUS

!

N!!

FU

FUN PHOTO BOOTH

DEC

3rd 10th 17th

10AM-1PM RSVP @ BIT.LY/SOCOHOLIDAYS

Monthlong Events Monthlong Events Aquarium of the Pacific Fridays through December 29: Get up close with the ocean’s ultimate predators during free Shark Lagoon Nights. Guests can touch and learn about sharks, shop, purchase drinks and snacks, and enjoy live music. Fridays, 6-9 p.m.

Free. 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach. (562) 590-3100. www.aquariumofpacific.org.

• Big Air Trampoline Park 23251 Avenida de la Carlota, Laguna Hills.

(949) 305-9788. www.bigairusa.com. See ad on page 22.

Wednesday and Thursday: Toddler Time - A special time just for little ones (ages 7 and under) to jump around at their own pace without older kids. So whether your kids are bobbing around the dodgeball court or hopping into the foam pit, they will have a blast! An added bonus? They guarantee your kids will enjoy better afternoon naps after a fun morning of jumping and playing at Big Air! Check out our Toddler

Time Holiday Party! Call or visit our website for admission prices and times.

Friday and Saturday: Big Air Cosmic Night - The lights go down, the music’s pumped up, and out come the lasers and glow lights. The full park is open to jump, climb, dance, and dodge after dark.

Call for information about Cosmic Night birthday parties! 8:30-11 p.m. $19 per jumper. Prices and hours subject to change without notice.

• Cookies and Milk with Santa at the Irvine Spectrum December 1-22: Decked out in his best red suit, Santa will be waiting to hear your wishes and take photos with kids of all ages. Enjoy complimentary cookies and milk, courtesy of Corner Bakery, while supplies last. Fridays, 11 a.m. - noon. Irvine. (949) 753-5180. www.shopirvinespectrumcenter.com.

See ad on page 28.

Enchanted: Forest of Light at Descanso Gardens Through January 7: Two theatrical lighting 7.25” wide x 4.65” high ad [Kids Guide]

houses have created 12 unique, large-scale lighting experiences that illuminate a mile-long walk through some of Descanso Gardens’ most beloved locations, including the Oak Grove, the Lake, Rose Garden and Camellia Forest. Three of these displays are interactive, allowing visitors to manipulate the lights and sounds. The walk concludes with a spectacular light display in Descanso’s iconic Japanese Garden, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. Be sure to stop for hot cocoa (or an adult beverage) at the illuminated Lakeside Lounge in the Oak Woodland! $28+. Daily, 5-10 p.m. 1418 Descanso Drive, La Canada Flintridge. (818) 949-4200. www.descansogardens.org Farmers Markets Find a farmers’ market everyday of the week. With local produce, ready-made foods, honey, eggs and more. Plus, some markets offer a kids corner and music, some even have rides and activities. www. goodveg.org, ocagcomm.com/services/markets, www.tinyurl.com/orangecountyfm, www.tinyurl. com/longbeachfm, www.farmersmarketla.com, www.orangehomegrown.org.

Festival of Lights at The Mission Inn Hotel in Riverside November 24 - January 6: Your family will be swept away by more than 3.6 million brilliant lights transforming Riverside’s historic hotel into

Dec. 1– 31, 2017 (choose 1 day)

rs unlimited Enjoy 2 Full Hou use of: • Go-Karts* * • Bumper Boats * • Kiddie Train

d

ture golf an Plus one round of minia a cool cookie!

$19*

Only person (Retail Value $30) per

d with any * Cannot be combine er. other discount or off hours.

Call for ride operating

Golf N’ Stuff Gift Certificates on Sale Now ®

(Cash only purchase of gift certificates.)

10555 E. Firestone Blvd.

Norwalk, CA 90650 @ 605 Fwy in Norwalk Call for park hours

Call 562-868-9956 or visit www.golfnstuff.com 4 kidsguide holiday guide 2017

lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

Gift Emporium, Piru, and Bennett’s Honey Farm.

Saturday and Sunday, board at 11:45 a.m.; depart at noon; return from 3-4 p.m. Adults, $26; seniors (60+), $24; kids (4-12), $16; toddlers (2-3), $12.

Visit their website for select Sunday rides.

Christmas Tree Train - Weekends, November 25 - December 10: Take a train ride to a private Christmas tree farm, where you can find the perfect pre-cut tree or cut-your-own; there are limited numbers of cut your own due to the drought.

Crews net the tree and stack it on the flatcar for the ride back to Fillmore. Food and beverages are served on board, and you can shop at the Caboose Garden Center and Gift Emporium. Saturday and Sunday, departures at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Adults, $26; seniors (60+), $24; youth (4-12), $16; kids (2-3), $12.

North Pole Express Train - Selected dates November 25 - December 26: Celebrate Christmas with a one-hour ride aboard a vintage train. Wear your pajamas, dress warm, and remember to bring your camera to take pictures with Santa after the train ride. Vendors will be on-site so you can purchase unique holiday gifts. Train departs at 6 and 7:30 p.m.; additional 4:45 p.m. departures on December 16-23. Adults, $30; kids (2-12), $20; under 23 months on adult lap, free.

Santa Shopper Train - December 16-17: During the last weekend before Christmas, take a train ride to the Loose Caboose Garden Center and Gift Emporium for those great last-minute Christmas gifts. If you still need a perfect tree, it’s just a short walk to the Tree Farm where you can buy one and haul it back on the train. Saturday and Sunday, noon. Adults, $26; seniors (60+), $24; youth (412), $16; kids (2-3), $12.

magic. In addition to the external light display, throughout the season, The Mission Inn Hotel and Spa features a decorated Christmas tree, appearances by Santa Claus and Dickensian Carolers singing cheerful holiday tunes, authentic horse-drawn carriages, live reindeer, and hundreds of characters dressed in 17th-century costumes to entertain crowds and evoke the spirit of the season. Daily, 4:30-11 p.m. Note: Day trip visitors can also extend their tour by dining, shopping or taking in High Tea. Plus, you can stay the night, check out the Festival of Lights room packages. 3649 Mission Inn Ave., Riverside. (951) 784-0300. www.riversideca.gov/fol 6 kidsguide holiday guide 2017

• Fillmore & Western Railway

Holiday Trains 364 Main St., Fillmore. (805) 524-2546. www. fwry.com. See ad on page 22.

Weekend Scenic Train Excursions - Weekends: Take a three or four-hour, round-trip train ride through the citrus and avocado groves of the Heritage Valley on board vintage 1930’s passenger and dining cars. Onboard lunch available for purchase. Stop at various locations during the trip, including the Loose Caboose Garden Center and

Dinner with Santa - December 20-22: Gather the family for a holiday dinner hosted by Santa Claus.

Have your wish list ready, and be sure to bring a camera for a photo with Ol’ Saint Nick. Dinner includes a choice of turkey or ham with all the fixings and a holiday dessert. Wednesday - Friday, departs at 5:30 p.m. and returns at 7:30 p.m.

Adults, $55; kids (2-12), $30; under 2, free on adult lap.

Free Admission Days at Southern California Museums Ongoing: Free admission is offered on varying days at the following museums. See Museums for contact information and museum details.

Daily: Hammer Museum and California Science Center.

Monday - Friday: Chapman University Permanent Exhibits, Wells Fargo History Museum, and Los Angeles County Museum of Art, for Los Angeles residents after 3 p.m. lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

Happy with Your Child’s Grades?

Help Your Child

Today in Reading, Math & Writing.

Call Us Today

to Schedule a Free Diagnostic Assessment.

Tuesday - Saturday: Chapman University Exhibits, Dominguez Rancho Adobe Museum, and Flight Path Learning Center and Museum.

Tuesday - Sunday: California African American Museum and Getty Center.

Wednesday - Monday: Getty Villa.

Wednesday - Sunday: Homestead Museum, Rancho Los Alamitos, Rancho Los Cerritos, and the Paley Center for Media.

Thursday - Tuesday: Los Angeles County Museum of Art (kids ages 17 and under are always free).

Sundays: Museum of Latin American Art. First Tuesday: Natural History Museum of LA County, La Brea Tar Pits, and Kidspace from 4-8 p.m.

Second Tuesday: Los Angeles County Museum of Art and Autry Museum.

Thursdays: Skirball Cultural Center.

First Thursday: Huntington Library, Art Collections and Botanical Gardens with reserved tickets.

Third Thursday: Japanese American National Museum.

Thursday nights: Long Beach Museum of Art, 3-8 p.m.; Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA), 5-8 p.m.; and Japanese American National Museum, 5-8 p.m.

First Friday: Norton Simon Museum, 5-8 p.m.

Fourth Friday: Museum of Latin American Art, 5-9 p.m.

Friday: Long Beach Museum of Art. 8 kidsguide holiday guide 2017

• Intensive Program for Children in Reading, Math and Writing (Also Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2 & Higher Math) • One-to-One Instruction • FREE DIAGNOSTIC ASSESSMENT • Great Family Discount Plans • All Credit Cards Accepted • Monthly Payment Plans

$50 FREE TUITION with Ad Atlantic Ave

LONG BEACH

Carson St.

4215 Atlantic Avenue 562-653-4380 Long Beach, CA 90807 (Same plaza as Cold Stone Creamery NEXT to Domino’s Pizza)

• Free Dance Sundays with Debbie Allen at The Wallis Second Sundays: Dancers and families of all ages can enjoy the wildly popular dance lesson sessions with three-time Emmy Awardwinner Debbie Allen and Friends every second Sunday on the Promenade Terrace. Open to the public, each session will focus on one style of dance. Noon - 1:45 p.m. Plus, reserve your tickets now for the free interactive performances by The Story Pirates in February and March. Free. The Wallis, 9390 N. Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills. (310) 746-4000. www.thewallis.org/debbiesundays.

Santa and have their photo taken with him too. You may take pictures with your personal camera or you may purchase a photo taken by Irvine Park Railroad. After visiting with Santa, hop back aboard the train and enjoy the colorful Christmas lights and decorations, as well as the magical “Tunnel of Lights,” on the ride back to Santa’s Village. Daily. Train ride, $15.

Activity tickets, $5. Book of 15 tickets, $60 ($15 savings). Activity tickets cannot be used to ride the Christmas Train. Parking, $3-7. Irvine Regional Park, Orange. (714) 997-3968. www.irvineparkrailroad.com.

Grand Park Lights Up the Holidays November 26 - December 26: Grand Park will be magically lit for the holidays, with a 45-foot tree as the centerpiece. Daily. Free.

200 North Grand Ave., Los Angeles. www. grandparkla.org

Macy’s Letters To Santa Through December 24: Kids can create a letter to Santa and drop it off at Macy’s (or send it virtually online). For every letter received, Macy’s will donate $1 to Make-aWish (up to $1 million dollars). Daily. Free. www.social.macys.com/believe

• Holiday Entertainment at the Irvine Spectrum Through December 31: This season celebrate the weekend at Irvine Spectrum Center with live holiday entertainment on Saturdays and Sundays throughout the season. 71 Fortune Drive, Irvine.

(949) 753-5180. www.shopirvinespectrumcenter. com. See ad on page 28.

Holiday TV Shows Schedule Through December 26: Enjoy classic and new holiday TV shows with the family. Check your local listings for times; all are in Eastern time. www.christmastvschedule.com Irvine Park Railroad Christmas Train December 1-23: Come with family and friends and take this enchanting night ride through historic Irvine Regional Park to meet Santa Claus. The train departs from the brightly-lit train station and drops passengers off at the North Pole. Children share their wish list with

Movie Deals and Theater Child Care Find family-friendly bargains on favorite movies in theaters now or great deals on old classics.

Norwalk 8, 13917 Pioneer Blvd., (562) 8045615, $2-3 daily; $2 extra for 3-D movies.

San Juan Capistrano, 26762 Verdugo St., (949) 661-3456, Tuesday special, $6 all day (excludes 3-D films). South Coast Village, 1561 W. Sunflower Ave., Santa Ana, (714) 557-5701, classic film Wednesday and daily matinee, $8. Westminster 10, 6721 Westminster Blvd., (714) 893-4222, $6 all day Sunday (3-D surcharge applies). www. regencymovies.com Four Stars Cinemas (new movies), 12111 Valley View St., Garden Grove, (714) 934-6377, Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday (before 6 p.m.) Family Discount Days, $6 ($2 extra for 3-D movies). www.4starcinemas.com Pictures Show, 2800 Main St., Santa Ana Mall, (714) 836-7469, $2-5 daily; $2 extra for 3-D movies. www.pictureshowent.com lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

Harkin Cerritos 16, 600 Los Cerritos Center, (562) 865-4140, offers in-lobby child PlayCenter where kids (3-8) play games, read books, enjoy toys, and of course, watch movies, just steps from mom and dad’s auditorium. Walk-ups are welcome and reservations are recommended.

Call for fee and times. Additional location in Chino Hills. www.harkinstheatres.com/playcenter.aspx Cinema City Theatres, 5635 East LaPalma Ave., Anaheim, (714) 970-6700, Super Value Days, Sunday before 6 p.m., Monday and Tuesday, $6. www.starlightcinemas.com Muzeo Express, Holiday Model Trains Through January 7: From the creators of the Nixon Library spectacular comes the annual exhibition, Muzeo Express. 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. Brought to you jointly by Toy Train Operating Society and Train Collectors Association. Tuesday - Sunday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Adults, $8; kids, $5. Muzeo, 241 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim. (714) 956-8936. www. muzeo.org.

Newport Harbor Christmas Boat Parade and Holiday Cruises December 1-12 and 18-31: Holiday cruises are offered on the nights of the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade. Monday - Sunday, 5:30, 7 and 8:30 p.m. departure times. $32+.

Registration by phone or online. (949) 6731435. www.newportbeachboatparade.com Operation Santa Paws 2017 December 1-16: An annual collection of pet toys, shelter supplies and treats that are delivered to shelter and rescue dogs and cats.

Deliveries will be made on December 16th to animals in need. Visit their website for program details and drop-off locations. (562) 439-3316. www.hautedogs.org/santapaws.html

Being Social Pays Off! Deals • Goodies •Latest Scoop

Good stuff happens when you Kidsguide

Star Wars: The Last Jedi at the El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood December 15 - January 28: In Lucas film’s Star Wars: The Last Jedi, the Skywalker saga continues as the heroes of The Force Awakens join the galactic legends in an epic adventure that unlocks age-old mysteries of the Force and shocking revelations of the past. Before the movie experience, an all-new Laser Lightsaber Show. Daily. $18+. 6838 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood. www.elcapitantheatre.com • The Heart of Robin Hood at The Wallis November 29 - December 17: Forget everything you ever knew about Robin Hood. In this modern reimagining (recommended, 10+),

10 kidsguide holiday guide 2017

lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

Robin and his unmerry gang of cutthroats steal from the rich, but it’s never occurred to them to give anything back to anyone. When wicked Prince John threatens all, bold Marion steps in to protect the poor and transform a thuggish Robin from hood to good. The classic tale goes rogue in this bold new twist on the world’s most infamous outlaw. Check website for show times and ticket prices. Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts, 9390 N. Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills. (310) 246-3800. www.TheWallis.org. See ad on page 25.

Trolley Tour of Lights in Long Beach December 5-28: Board a classic cable-car trolley for a waterfront tour that will showcase the best light displays around Long Beach. Each tour includes hot cocoa and a sugar cookie, a souvenir Santa hat and candy cane, holiday music and light narration. 30-minute tour, 5:15, 6, 6:45, 7:30, 8:15 and 9 p.m. Adults, $30; kids (12 and under), $20. 5236 E. 2nd St. (in front of Legends), Long Beach. (562) 8882870. www.longbeachtrolley.com Valley Kids Consignment in San Fernando Valley November 30 - January 28: Check out items for newborns to juniors, including strollers, pack n’ plays, toys, games, books, furniture, shoes, clothes, diapers, blankets, bedding, stuffed animals, ride on toys, outdoor toys and more. Daily, 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. $16 to enter; free for new mommies, consignors and volunteers. 18425-A Nordhoff St., Northridge. www.valleykidsconsignment.com Visit Santa at Roger’s Garden’s in Corona del Mar December 9-23: Bring kids to Roger’s Gardens and take professional photos with Santa Claus. Santa will be in the amphitheater waiting to hear every child’s wish for this Christmas season. Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

2301 San Joaquin Hills Road, Corona del Mar. (949) 640-5800. www.rogersgardens.com Winter Fantasy at the Sawdust Art Festival in Laguna Beach Weekends, through December 17: A winterthemed arts and crafts faire offering a variety of activities for kids, including Santa visits, art activities, strolling carolers, magicians, puppet shows and children’s playhouse, plus lights, decorations and real snow! Weekends, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Adults, $9; kids (6-12), $4; kids (under 5), free; Season pass, $18. 935 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach. (949) 494-3030. www.sawdustartfestival.org

12 kidsguide holiday guide 2017

Daily Events Daily Events • Black Friday Clay Workshop at Art Steps November 24: Drop the kids (7+) off while you shop! Hunt for Black Friday deals while your young artists create a holiday card, ornament, snow globe and more. Kids can get their holiday gifts ready for everyone in this one-day workshop. $115 (includes materials). Friday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. (714) 524-2248. www. artstepsclasses.com. Offered at both Yorba Linda and Mission Viejo Art Steps Studios.

Also see “Winter Camps.” See ad on page 21.

• Black Friday Frenzy at Irvine Spectrum November 24: Starting at midnight after Thanksgiving, kick off the holidays with Black Friday Frenzy. Festivities include incredible sales, DJ’s and free valet parking, ice skating, giant wheel and carousel rides. Friday, midnight - 8 a.m. Irvine Spectrum, 71 Fortune Drive, Irvine. (949) 753-5180. www. shopirvinespectrumcenter.com. See ad on page 28.

• Black Friday Mini-Camps at Lil’ Chef School in Irvine November 24: Parents can take advantage of this one-day Mini Camp that will allow them to shop while their kiddos cook up a feast. In the morning session, Lil’ Chefs will learn to bake favorite brunch items utilizing Thanksgiving leftovers to make a delicious casserole.

The afternoon session will feature Main Dish Mash Up, where Lil’ Chefs will learn how to use leftovers to create succulent new dishes.

That evening, parents can go get some holiday shopping done while your child makes their own pizza dinner from scratch. Ages 4+.

Friday; morning, afternoon, and full-day session options available, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Evening “Parent’s Night Out” session, 5:30-9:30 p.m.

Sibling discounts available. 15435 Jeffery Road, #132, Irvine. (949) 679-8390. www. lilchefschool.com. See ad on page 18.

Santa Claus is Coming to Temecula November 24: Professor Pennypickle and Santa are long-time friends (remember they have figured out how to deliver presents all over the world in one night!) so naturally there’s a cozy little cabin just waiting for him. The jolly old man will make his arrival tonight! Friday, 6 p.m. Check the web for pricing. Pennypickle’s Workshop, 42081 Main St., Temecula. (951) 308-6376. www. pennypickles.org/events.html

Lighting of the Bay at Newport Dunes November 24-26: Kick off the holiday season at Newport Dunes with a weekend of family fun, including live performances, Santa’s arrival and the lighting of the bay, movie screenings, a train ride and puppet shows. Friday - Sunday, check their website for daily schedules. 1131 Back Bay Drive, Newport Beach. (949) 729-3863. www.newportdunes.com • CHOC Toy Drive at Pretend City November 24 - December 23: Help spread holiday cheer to patients at CHOC Children’s Hospital! Pretend City Children’s Museum partners up with the Orange Coast Harley Owners Group and Orange County Harley-Davidson to benefit the patients at CHOC Children’s Hospital by collecting new, unwrapped toys all month long!

Daily, visit their website for schedule. Bring a child’s toy valued at $5 or greater to receive 25% off general admission. 29 Hubble, Irvine.

(949) 428-3900. www.pretendcity.org. See ad on page 6.

• Tree Lighting at Irvine Spectrum November 24 - December 24: The beautifully decorated 50-foot tree will come to life at night with a choreographed light show every 30 minutes. Nightly, 5-11 p.m. Edwards Court. www.shopirvinespectrumcenter.com.

See ad on page 28.

Holiday Festival at Calico Ghost Town November 25: Head to Calico Ghost Town, the Old West mining town founded in 1881, to kick off the holiday season. This fun family event includes kids’ crafts, visits with Santa Claus, a tree lighting, carolers and more holiday fun! Saturday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Adults, $8; kids (6-15), $5; under 5, free. 36600 Ghost Town Road, Yermo. (877) 387-2757. www. cms.sbcounty.gov Lakeshore Learning’s Free Saturday Workshops November 25: Kids (3+) make a “I Can Help!” chore chart. Saturday, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. No reservations necessary. Carson, (310) 537-4778; Fountain Valley, (714) 963-8255; and Laguna Hills, (949) 462-9353. www.lakeshorelearning. com/freecrafts4kids Tree Lighting in Seal Beach November 25: Watch the annual tree lighting with holiday activities. Saturday, 4-7 p.m.

Eisenhower Park, Ocean and Main. (562) 799-0179. www.sealbeachchamber.org lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

Winter Village Festival in Sierra Madre November 25: Start your holiday shopping in the quaint village of Sierra Madre, with arts and crafts, music, snow sledding, horsedrawn carriage rides, a visit from Santa and a giant Christmas tree. Saturday, noon - 8:30 p.m. Free admission. Downtown Sierra Madre. www.sierramadrechamber.com Duck the Halls in Tustin November 25, December 2, 9, and 16: Join the Duck the Halls Party, featuring holiday trees inspired and designed by the Anaheim Ducks! Plus, meet and take photos with the Anaheim Ducks’ mascot Wild Wing as well as the Power Players.

Kids crafts and games. Saturday, 2-4 p.m. See website for locations. 2961 El Camino Real, Tustin.

(714) 730-4124. www.shopthemarketplace.com Hollywood Christmas Parade in Los Angeles November 26: The Hollywood Christmas Pa-

rade celebrates with Santa, marching bands, celebrities and more. Olivia Newton-John is the marshall in this year’s parade. The Ushaped parade route will travel east to Vine, south on Vine to Sunset Boulevard and west on Sunset, back to Orange. Sunday, 6 p.m.

Starts at Hollywood and Orange. Grandstand tickets are available on Ticketmaster. Orange and Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood. www. thehollywoodchristmasparade.com Messiah Sing-Along at Nixon Library November 26: Tune up your voices for the annual Handel’s Messiah sing along. Sunday, 10 a.m. and noon. Free. 18001 Yorba Linda Blvd., Yorba Linda. (714) 993-5075. www. nixonfoundation.org Patchwork Indie Art & Craft Festival in Santa Ana November 26: Fun family shopping with over 100 vendors displaying their handmade

The Nutcracker

The original story was written by E.T.A. Hoffman in 1816. Alexandre Dumas rewrote the story to appeal to children in 1847. By 1892, choreographer Marius Petipa asked Tchaikovsky to write music for the ballet. In various interpretations, the story follows a young girl who receives a nutcracker as a Christmas present.

The Nutcracker comes to life as they journey to the Land of Sweets.

Westside Ballet in Santa Monica November 25 - December 3: Days and times vary, visit their website for details and ticket purchase. $45. The Broad Stage, 1310 11th St., Santa Monica. (310) 8282018. www.westsideballet.com/nutcracker Festival Ballet and Pacific Symphony in Costa Mesa December 2: A special Nutcracker just for kids! Join in the fun at the interactive Musical Carnival at 9 a.m. (for 10 a.m. concertgoers) and 12:15 p.m. (for 11:30 a.m. concertgoers), where kids can test drive a musical instrument, meet the performers, and enjoy musical arts and crafts, themed to the morning’s concert. Saturday, shows at 10 and 11:30 a.m. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive. (714) 556-2787. www.scfta.org Festival Ballet in Newport Beach December 2: Saturday, 2:30 and 4 p.m. Free; limited seating is first-come, first-served. Newport Beach Library, 1000 Avocado Ave. (949) 717-3800. www.newportbeachlibrary.org Ballet Etudes in Huntington Beach December 2-3 and 9-10: Saturday, 2 p.m. (December 9 only) and 7 p.m.; and Sunday, 1 p.m. (Decem-

ber 3 only) and 2 p.m. $20-30. Huntington Beach High School, 1905 Main St. (714) 902-9423. www. balletetudes.com/events December 12-13: Tuesday - Wednesday, 4 and 7 p.m. $5 per person. Advanced ticket purchase is highly recommended to guarantee a seat. Huntington Beach Central Library, 7111 Talbert Ave. (714) 375-5107. www.hbpl.org Red Chair Productions in Glendale December 3: Sunday, 2 and 6 p.m. $25-45. The Alex Theatre, 216 N. Brand Blvd. (818) 243-2539. www. redchairproductions.org/performances Miami City Ballet in Los Angeles December 7-10: Thursday - Sunday, times vary. $34+. The Music Center - Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, 135 N. Grand Ave. (213) 972-0711. www. musiccenter.org The Hot Chocolate Nutcracker in Redondo Beach December 7-10: Thursday and Friday, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, 1 and 7 p.m.; and Sunday, 2 p.m. $50-110. Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center, 1935 Manhattan Beach Blvd. www.thehotchocolatenutcracker.com

goods, plus kids’ arts and crafts, food trucks and music. Sunday, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Free admission and parking. East 4th St. at Spurgeon St., Santa Ana. www.dearhandmadelife.com Tamale Festival of La Habra November 26: Join the City of La Habra’s Tamale Festival with churro-eating contests, as well as best tamale, best dessert tamale, best salsa and hottest salsa contests. As in past years, dance performances by local studios, tamale and other food vendors, craft and other vendors, and finally the City’s Holiday Tree Lighting ceremony. Sunday, 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Find a schedule of events and entertainment on their website. Free to attend. (562) 383-4211. www.lahabracity.com Tree Lighting in La Habra November 26: Join the city’s tree lighting ceremony that takes place during the city Tamale Festival. Sunday, 5:30 p.m. 101 W. La Habra Blvd., La Habra. www.lahabracity.com

American Ballet Theatre in Costa Mesa December 7-17: Wednesday - Sunday. Wednesday - Friday, 7 p.m.; Saturday, 2 and 7 p.m.; and Sunday, 1 and 5:30 p.m. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa. (714) 556-2787. www.scfta.org The Nouveau Chamber Ballet in Fullerton December 9-10: Saturday, 7:30 p.m.; and Sunday, 2 p.m. $28-35. Fullerton College Campus Theatre, 321 E. Chapman Ave. (714) 526-3862. www.nouveauchamberballet.com Warner Grand in San Pedro December 9-10: Saturday, 2 and 7 p.m.; and Sunday, 2 p.m. $19-39. 478 W. 6th St. (310) 548-2493. www.grandvision.org Winter Fantasy and Nutcracker in Long Beach December 9-10: Saturday, noon, 3 and 6 p.m.; and Sunday, noon and 3 p.m. $13-18. Millikan High School, 2800 Snowden Ave. (562) 594-5818. www.impactdancecenter.com/winter-fantasy Festival Ballet at Irvine Barclay Theater December 9-24: Check the website for show times. $42-75. 4242 Campus Drive. (949) 854-4646. www.thebarclay.org Los Angeles Ballet in Los Angeles and Redondo Beach December 9-31: Special appearances by the Nutcracker cast of characters and Santa Claus at each performance. December 9-10, Alex Theater, Glendale; December 15-17, Royce Hall, UCLA; December 23-24, Dolby Theater, Hollywood; and December 29-31, Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center.

• Giving Tuesday at Pretend City November 28: ‘Tis the season of giving! Giving Tuesday kicks off the charitable season in America. All of their programming today will focus on giving and how children and adults can give back to the community. Tuesday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Free with admission; no reservation required. Pretend City Children’s Museum, 29 Hubble, Irvine. (949) 428-3900. www. pretendcity.org. See ad on page 6.

Tree Lighting Ceremony in Artesia November 29: Join the community of Artesia for a tree lighting ceremony with Santa Claus, games and treats for kids. Wednesday, 5-8 p.m. Free. Artesia Park, 18750 Clarkdale Ave., Artesia. (562) 860-3361. www.cityofartesia.us Aliso Viejo Tree Lighting Ceremony November 30: Kick off the holiday season for Aliso Viejo’s “All is Bright” holiday celebration and tree lighting. Bring the family out for a little holi-

Ticket prices vary per venue. www.losangelesballet. org/the-nutcracker Los Angeles Ballet at American Girl in LA December 10: Sunday, 10:45 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. $70 per person; reservations required. 189 The Grove Drive, Los Angeles. (877) 247-5223. www. americangirl.com Laguna Dance Theatre in Mission Viejo December 14-17: Thursday and Friday, 7 p.m.; Saturday, 2 and 7 p.m.; and Sunday, 1 and 6 p.m. $22-26. Saddleback College McKinney Theater, 28000 Marguerite Pkwy. (949) 582-4656. www. lagunadancetheatre.com Moscow Ballet in Los Angeles December 15-16: Friday, 7 p.m.; and Saturday, 1 and 5 p.m. Tickets start at $43. 3790 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles. www.nutcracker.com Inland Pacific Ballets in Rancho Cucamonga December 15-17: Friday, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, 2 and 7:30 p.m.; and Sunday, 2:30 p.m. $27+. Lewis Family Playhouse, 12505 Cultural Center Drive. www.lewisfamilyplayhouse.com Maple Conservatory in Irvine December 15-17: Friday, 7 p.m.; Saturday, 2 and 7 p.m.; and Sunday, 3 p.m. $24-30. Portola High School, 1001 Cadence. (888) 718-4253. www. mapleconservatory.com The Ballet Studio in Temecula December 15-23: Various dates and times, check website for details. $20-24. Temecula Theater, 42051 Main St., Temecula. (866) 653-8696. www. temeculatheater.org

day cheer, photo opportunities, ornament making, old-fashioned Christmas caroling, real snow fall, and a visit from Jolly St. Nick, as they light the 20-foot tall Christmas tree. Thursday, 5:30-8 p.m. Aliso Viejo Town Center, 26841 Aliso Creek Road, Aliso Viejo. www.cityofalisoviejo.com Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony in Signal Hill November 30: The public is invited to attend the annual tree lighting ceremony which will officially ring in the start of the holidays. Enjoy a visit with Santa, festive treats and holiday music with Signal Hill dignitaries and community members alike. Inclement weather will cancel the event. Thursday, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Discovery Well Park, 2200 Temple Ave., Signal Hill. (562) 989-7330. www.cityofsignalhill.org Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony in Bellflower December 1: See “Snow Days” for details.

Holiday Tree Lighting in Lakewood December 1: Join the City of Lakewood for a tree lighting with carolers and entertainment.

Plus, refreshments for purchase. Friday, 5:30 p.m. Civic Center Plaza, 5000 Clark Ave., Lakewood. (562) 866-9771, Ext. 2160. www.lakewoodcity.org Seal Beach Christmas and Holiday Parade December 1: Holiday parade along Main Street includes a visit from Santa. Friday, 7 p.m. Main St., Seal Beach. (562) 799-0179. www.sealbeachca.gov Tree Lighting in Hawaiian Gardens December 1: Join the City of Hawaiian Gardens for caroling, refreshments, entertainment, a visit with Santa, and crafts. Friday, 5-8:30 p.m. Free to attend. C. Robert Lee Activity Center, 21815 Pioneer Blvd., Hawaiian Gardens. (562) 420-2641. www.hgcity.org

Anaheim Ballet December 16: Saturday, 2 and 7 p.m. $25-50. City National Grove of Anaheim, 2200 E. Katella Ave. (714) 712-2700. www.anaheimballet.org

Coast City Ballet in Huntington Beach December 22-23: Friday, 7 p.m.; and Saturday, 2 p.m. $18-25. Coast City Ballet, 1905 Main St. (714) 9639771. www.coastcityballet.com/17TheNutcracker

South Bay Ballet in Torrance December 16-17: Saturday and Sunday, 2 p.m.

Adults, $34; kids (12 and younger), $24. El Camino College Center for the Arts, 16007 Crenshaw Blvd. (310) 329-5345. www.southbayballet.org

Los Angeles Youth Ballet in Glendale December 22-23: Friday, 7 p.m.; and Saturday, 2 and 7 p.m. $25+. Alex Theatre, 216 North Brand Blvd., Glendale. (818) 243-2539. www.alextheatre.org

Southern California Dance Theater in Downey December 16-17: Saturday, 7:30 p.m.; and Sunday, 2:30 p.m. $28-32. Downey Theater, 8435 Firestone Blvd. (562) 861-821. www.downeytheatre.org • Long Beach Ballet Presents The Nutcracker December 16-24: The 35th anniversary of Southern California’s most popular production of “The Nutcracker.” The Long Beach Ballet will once again present its trade-mark flying sleigh, amazing pyrotechnics, magical theatrical effects, full symphony orchestra and guest appearances by world-class ballet stars. “Crammed with special effects, the familiar Long Beach Ballet version of ‘The Nutcracker’ has nearly everything money can buy. Opulent, family-oriented holiday entertainment, seek no further!” Lewis Segal, Los Angeles Times. Matinee and evening performances. $34-78; VIP tickets, $115. Group discounts are available. Long Beach Terrace Theater. See ad on page 13.

Regal Theaters December 17: From the Bolshoi Ballet in Moscow, to select Regal Theaters nationwide. Check the web for locations and times. www.regmovies.com

Los Angeles Ballet at the Dolby Theater December 23-24: Saturday, 1 and 5 p.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. $46-124. 6801 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood. www.dolbytheatre. com.

Tree of Life and Holiday Open House at Woodlawn Cemetery December 1: Features performances by the John Adams Middle School Choir, a holiday movie, light refreshments and photos with Santa Claus. Plus, personalize and decorate ornaments in honor of loved ones who have passed away and place them on the 11-foot Tree of Life in the mausoleum; ornaments and craft decorations provided. Woodlawn Cemetery is also an official drop-off site of the Toys for Tots toy donation drive through December 17, so bring toy donations to the event. Friday, 4-6 p.m. Free admission and parking. Woodlawn Cemetery, Mausoleum and Mortuary, 1847 14th St., Santa Monica. (310) 458-8717. www.smgov.net Cinderella in San Juan Capistrano December 1-2: Cinderella is a musical version of the popular rags to riches fairytale, performed by actors (6-13) from Creative Kids Playhouse.

Friday, 4 and 7 p.m. Saturday, 1:30 p.m. $11.

Mission Basilica School, 31641 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. (949) 297-6257. www. creativekidsplayhouse.com Pomona Harvest Festival Art and Craft Show December 1-3: Santa’s helpers take note!

With strolling performers, contests, crafting demonstrations, and an interactive Kidzone, it’s a yuletide celebration for all ages. Adults, $9; kids (13-17), $4; kids 12 and under, free. Parking, $10. Friday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; and Sunday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Fairplex Expo, 1101 West McKinley Ave. Building 4, Pomona. (925) 392-7300. www.harvestfestival.com Train to Santa’s Workshop in Perris December 1-3, 8-10 and 15-17: Embark on a magical train ride and visit with Santa Claus himself at his North Pole workshop.

Ride the train where elves will lead your family in Christmas songs, holiday trivia games and storytelling. Santa greets the guests as they arrive at the workshop. Visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus at a play area, where children can play on Thomas train tables, a child-powered roller coaster and crafts.

Enjoy refreshments at the Pinacate Station boarding area. Friday - Sunday; check the web for departure times. Adults, $20; kids (2-11), $15. Trains fill up fast, so make your reservation early. Orange Empire Railway Museum, 2201 S. A St., Perris. (951) 9433020. www.oerm.org/events Beauty and the Beast in Long Beach December 1-10: Based on the Disney movie, the story tells of a prince who is transformed into a hideous beast as punishment for his cruel and selfish ways. In order to become human again, the Beast must earn Belle’s love before 16 kidsguide holiday guide 2017

it’s too late. $6. Friday and Saturday, 7 p.m.

Sunday, 2 p.m. Act Out Theatre, 3341 E. 59th St., Long Beach. www.actoutlb.com/tickets Ugly Sweater Workshop at Fashion Camp OC December 1, 2, 9, and 16: Kids (7+) can learn to hand sew a one-of-a-kind ugly holiday sweater for the season. All materials included.

Days and times vary, check website for details.

2477 Park Ave., Tustin. (714) 259-0946. www. tustin.createdesignsew.com 25th Annual Holiday Sonata in Whittier December 2: Celebrate the season with horse-drawn carriage and trolley rides, caroling, entertainment, photos with Santa and more, while browsing through the shops and restaurants of Uptown Whittier. Saturday, 4-9 p.m. Free admission. Greenleaf Ave. and Philadelphia St., Whittier. (562) 696-2262. www. whittieruptown.org Belmont Shore’s Annual Christmas Parade December 2: The Belmont Shore Christmas Parade takes place on East 2nd St. from Livingston Ave. to Bayshore Ave. and returns to Livingston Ave. Thousands line the street to watch the 100+ entries and more than a dozen marching bands. This year’s theme is “Christmas in Paradise.” Saturday, 6-9 p.m. Free to spectate.

2nd St., Long Beach. (562) 434-3066. www. belmontshore.org Breakfast and Brunch with Santa in Lake Forest December 2: Join Santa for a home-style cooked breakfast and brunch. There will be holiday melodies, cookie decorating, and story time with Santa. Be sure to invite your friends and family as Mrs. Claus and Santa’s elves will be on hand to join the fun! Saturday. See website for time and cost. Lake Forest Community Center, 25550 Commercentre Drive, Lake Forest. (949) 461-3450. www.lakeforestca.gov Breakfast with Santa in Westminster December 2: Gather the family to have breakfast with Santa, includes breakfast, crafts, a visit from Santa Claus and a small stocking for each child. Saturday, 9-10:30 a.m. $8. Space is limited and early registration is recommended. Westminster Community Services and Recreation, 8200 Westminster Blvd., Westminster.

(714) 895-2860. www.westminster-ca.gov Candy Caneland and Craft Faire in Buena Park December 2: An annual holiday carnival with games and Santa, plus holiday craft and food booths. Saturday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Ehlers

Event Center, 8150 Knott Ave., Buena Park.

(714) 562-3860. www.buenapark.com Children’s Flower Arranging Holiday Centerpieces in San Marino December 2: Kids (7-12) will learn how to create a festive holiday centerpiece using evergreen branches, fresh flowers, and bright berries in this hands-on workshop. Saturday, 1-2:30 p.m. $25-35. Preregistration required.

Huntington Library, Art Collections and Botanical Gardens, 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino.

(800) 838-3006. www.huntington.org Christmas Tree Lighting in Laguna Niguel December 2: Inside a snowflake, like the one on your sleeve, there happened an event, you must see to believe. Snag a cookie from Corner Bakery, don’t forget Chamber’s hot drink, admire the bright building, please remember to blink. Cinderella Cakes will be there, making a whimsical treat, stop by and make one, who doesn’t love a good sweet? Santa will be there, although a little tardy, beware of the Grinch, he can ruin a party. Bring your loved ones and neighbors, family members and friends; leave your pets at home, no if’s, buts, or ands. Saturday, 5-7 p.m. Free shuttle from the former County Courthouse. 30111 Crown Valley Pkwy., Laguna Niguel. (949) 362-4351. www.cityoflagunaniguel.org Christmas Tree Lighting in Mission Viejo December 2: Ring in the holiday cheer with a festive Christmas tree lighting ceremony. Cohosted by Mariners Mission Viejo, the evening will include free children’s activities and holiday caroling. The entertainment will culminate in the Christmas tree being lit. Saturday, 5 p.m. Free to attend. Kaleidoscope, 27741 Crown Valley Pkwy., Mission Viejo. www.gokaleidoscope.com Cool Crafts in Newport Beach December 2: Keep little hands busy with fun Nutracker-themed crafts for kids 3-8. Saturday, noon - 5 p.m. Free; no registration required. Central Library, 1000 Avocado Ave., Newport Beach.

(949) 717-3800. www.newportbeachlibrary.org Creation Station at Rancho Los Cerritos December 2: Kids can drop in for an afternoon of fun! Create unique seasonal crafts and participate in engaging rancho-themed activities. Today’s theme is Gorgeous Green (Christmas). Saturday, 1-4 p.m. Free. 4600 Virginia Road, Long Beach. (562) 206-2040. www.rancholoscerritos.org/calendar.html Family Fossil Day in Buena Park December 2: Families (6+) can explore Ralph B. Clark Regional Park’s rich fossil history and visit the marine fossil site for hands-on fossil excavation; bring a picnic lunch and stay to enjoy the park afterward. Saturday, 9:30 a.m. - noon; meet lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

WINTER

Santa Claus. Saturday, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Donation suggested: Adults, $10; kids (10-17), $5; kids (10 and under), free. Automobile Driving Museum, 610 Lairport St., El Segundo. www. automobiledrivingmuseum.org

Holiday World Tour

Lakeshore Learning’s Free Saturday Workshops December 2: Kids (3+) make a Frosty Friend Bookmark. Saturday, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Free.

No reservations necessary. Carson, (310) 537-4778; Fountain Valley, (714) 963-8255; and Laguna Hills, (949) 462-9353. www. lakeshorelearning.com

CAMPS December 26-29 January 2-5

9:30am - 12:30pm Someone Special & Gingerbre Me: ad Makin g Friday, De 11 am - 1 c 8 2:30 pm

use read Ho Gingerb ating Decor ec 8 Friday, D & m 6-8 p 4 y, Dec 1 Thursda 2:30 pm 1 m10:30 a

Cookie Exchan g Friday, D e ec 15 6-8 pm

Out s Night Parent’ Year’s New tion Celebra 29 ec Friday, D 0 pm :3 9 5:30-

Parties • Boy & Girl Scout Activities At-School Classes • Field Trips Adult Classes & Corporate Cooking Events 15435 Jeffrey Road, #132, Irvine

949-679-8390 • www.lilchefschool.com at the amphitheatre. Parking, $5. The Ralph B. Clark Park and Interpretive Center, 8800 Rosecrans Ave., Buena Park. (714) 973-3170. www. ocparks.com/parks Festival of Trees in Yorba Linda December 2: Free event for the entire family!

Enjoy photos with Santa, a kids’ area, games and crafts, vendors and entertainment, plus delicious food trucks. Saturday, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Free. Senior Living Community, an Eastern Star Home, 16850 Bastenchury Road, Yorba Linda. (714) 986-2380. www.tinyurl. com/FestivalOfTreesYB Fishing with Santa at Whittier Narrows December 2: Annual derbies provide an opportunity for kids (2-15) to enjoy fishing while competing for prizes and trophies. This morning, Santa joins in the fun! Saturday, 8 a.m. - noon; registration begins at 8 a.m. Free. Whittier Narrows, 823 Lexington-Gallatin Road, South El Monte. (916) 322-8911. www.wildlife.ca.gov Full Moon Hike on the Mesa in Bommer Canyon December 2: Families with kids (8+) enjoy the serenity of a moonlit night in Bommer Canyon.

This program is for participants who would enjoy a slower paced hike, are in good health and can walk on uneven surfaces in a wilderness 18 kidsguide holiday guide 2017

environment. Wear comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes, and bring water and a red-tinted flashlight for the hike. Be ready to enjoy the sounds and smells of the evening along with the full moon. Saturday, 4:30-7 p.m. Register on their website. 6400 Shady Canyon Drive, Bommer Canyon. www.letsgooutside.org Holiday Afloat Boat Parade at the USS Iowa December 2: Watch the Los Angeles Harbor Holiday Afloat boat parade while sitting on the historic wood decks of Battleship IOWA. More than 60 vessels of all shapes and sizes will participate in this annual event, including powerboats, sailboats, tall ships and harbor working craft. Santa Claus will make a visit along with carolers and holiday treats. There will also be face painting, hot cocoa, candy canes and much more. Saturday, 6-9 p.m. Adults, $12; kids (4-11), $5. 250 S. Harbor Blvd., San Pedro. (877) 446-9261. www.pacificbattleship.com Hot Wheels Garage Event in El Segundo December 2: See life-sized custom Hot Wheels cars and play with Hot Wheels tracks. Enter the raffle to win prizes. Plus, face-painting, balloon animals, $2 ice cream sundaes, and photos with

• Merry Movie Night at Dana Point Harbor December 2: Gather the family for merry movie night and watch the holiday classic, “Elf”! Jolly festivities including crafts, games, and a visit from a live elf to start the night off and after the movie enjoy the ceremonial lighting of the Ocean Institutes’ tall ship, the Pilgrim. Bring your beach chairs and blankets, sip hot cocoa, and watch Buddy the elf. Free. Food and drink available for purchase. Saturday, 3 p.m.; movie begins at 5 p.m. Baby Beach, Dana Point. www. danapointharbor.com. See ad on page 37.

Piecemakers Christmas Village Event in Costa Mesa December 2: A whimsical holiday event in a quaint village setting, the fair features over 70 artists with the finest in hand-crafted treasures, antiques and collectibles, plus kids’ activities, stage entertainment and food booths. Saturday, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Free admission and parking.

1720 Adams Ave., Costa Mesa. (714) 6413112. www.piecemakers.com Redwood Grove Hike in Carbon Canyon Regional Park December 2: Join OC Parks’ trained staff on an easy 1.1-mile hike to the park’s Coastal Redwood grove. You will use your five senses to engage with nature as you stroll to the redwoods.

You will also have an opportunity to learn about native plants along the way. Saturday, 8:3010 a.m. Free; parking, $5. Participants should remember water, sunscreen, a hat and hiking shoes. Reservations preferred; call or email carboncanyon@ocparks.com. Meet at the Nature Center. 4442 Carbon Canyon Road, Brea.

(714) 973-3160. www.ocparks.com/events Santa’s Breakfast at Parker’s Lighthouse in Long Beach December 2: Santa arrives by yacht and will be available to talk and take pictures with kids.

The Long Beach community can help support the patients by attending Santa’s Breakfast with the proceeds benefitting Miller Children’s Hospital, specifically the Child Life Department. Saturday, 8-11 a.m. Adults, $10; kids (12 and under), $7. Breakfast includes balots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

Snow Days • Snow Day LA at Elysian Park and Snow Day San Diego at Rohr Park Through December 30: LA’s largest winter tubing park is back again this year bigger and better! Located just five minutes from downtown, Snow Day LA is a winter festival featuring downhill winter tubing under twinkling-light archways, a brand new skating rink and Animated Penguin Holiday Light Path, snow blowing in the air, food trucks and more. Enjoy the VIP Experience with exclusive access to the Penguin Lounge, or stop in for a photo in the giant snow globe. Snow Day LA runs through December 16: Friday - Sunday, 6-10:30 p.m.; $16+. The Old Lodge - Montecillo De Leo Politi, Stadium Way and Scott Ave., Los Angeles. www.snowdayla.com.

December 22-23, and 25-30: The magic of winter is also coming to San Diego for the first time, featuring downhill winter tubing, a skating rink, snow blowing in the air, holiday lights, food trucks, giant snow globe for a photo op and more. $12. Rohr Park, Chula Vista. www.snowdaysandiego.com. See ad on page 29.

Winter Village Festival in Sierra Madre November 25: Start your holiday shopping in the quaint village of Sierra Madre, with arts and crafts, music, snow sledding, horse-drawn carriage rides, a visit from Santa and a giant Christmas tree. Saturday, noon - 8:30 p.m. Free admission. Downtown Sierra Madre. www.sierramadrechamber.com Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony in Bellflower December 1: Join in the festivities as the City of Bellflower lights their holiday tree. Santa Claus will arrive during the event and meet with children one-on-one to take their holiday wishes. Plus, a rink for scooters and skates (children are encouraged to wear a helmet to enter the rink), holiday crafts, and a new area for snow sledding. Refreshments will be served. Friday, 6:30 p.m.

Friendship Square, 16559 Bellflower Blvd., Bellflower.

(562) 804-1424, Ext. 2261. www.bellflower.org Anaheim Nutcracker Village & Tree Lighting December 2: Ring in the holidays with a tree lighting celebration, snow play, train rides, shopping and more! Free pictures with Santa from 3-5:30 p.m.

Bring your mittens, boots and camera. Saturday, village at 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.; and lighting at 6 p.m.; activities from 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. Free. Downtown Anaheim, Center St. Promenade and Lemon St. (714) 956-3586. www.downtownanaheim.com Christmas at Mission San Juan Capistrano December 2: Celebrate the holidays with Mission San Juan Capistrano! Held in conjunction with the City of San Juan Capistrano’s annual Tree Lighting Ceremony and community-wide holiday celebration, the event features snow play, carolers, choirs, “merry-achi” music, visits with Father Christmas, cookie decorating for kids, handcrafted gifts and seasonal delicacies. Saturday, 5:30-8 p.m. Adults, $6; kids (4-11), $4. 26801 Ortega Hwy. (949) 234-1300. www.missionsjc.com

Garden Grove Family Winterfest December 2: The exciting event features 50 tons of snow (bring mittens, jacket and boots!). Santa and Mrs. Claus will be on hand for pictures and to listen to all requests. Plus, inflatables, carnival games, train rides, music and more. Saturday, 2-5:30 p.m. $10 per person, tickets available only by pre-sale, through December 1 at Garden Grove City Hall. Tickets are limited to 1,000. Atlantis Play Center, 13630 Atlantis Way. (714) 741-5200. www.ci.garden-grove.ca.us Norwalk SnowFest & Tree Lighting Ceremony December 2: Bring the entire family as the City of Norwalk transforms the City Hall Lawn into a Snow Fest California filled with snow slides, a snow play area, game booths, a holiday train ride, craft tents, face painting, and more! Local entertainers will perform on stage throughout the day. There will also be food available for purchase. Ring in the holiday season by attending the lighting of the new 30-feet Christmas tree! Free. Saturday, 12-8 p.m. Norwalk City Hall Lawn, 12700 Norwalk Blvd., Norwalk. (562) 929-5702. www.norwalk.org Winter Wonderland at the Plaza in Los Alamitos December 2: Take part in a community event at the St. Isadore Historical Plaza, featuring a snow play area, activities, Santa’s Village, a tree lighting ceremony, refreshments and entertainment. Saturday, 4-7:30 p.m. Free admission. 10961 Reagan St. (562) 430-1073. www.cityoflosalamitos.org Snow Wonderland in Anaheim December 3: Get into the Christmas Spirit and play in the snow! The Anaheim Marketplace will have over 25 tons of snow for families to play in. There will be live entertainment, free hot chocolate, crafts and giveaways. Sunday, noon - 4 p.m. 1440 S. Anaheim Blvd.

(714) 999-0888. www.anaheimmarketplace.com Tree Lighting Ceremony in Downey December 4: Join a tree lighting ceremony with entertainment, a snow play area, arts and crafts, and photos with Santa. Monday, 6-8:30 p.m.; lighting at 6:30 p.m. Downey Civic Center, 11111 Brookshire Ave. (562) 904-7284. www.downeyca.org Winter in Willmore at Drake Park December 16: Enjoy sledding and snow play, holiday lights, treats, crafts and pictures with Santa! Families can also decorate their very own gingerbread houses. Saturday, noon - 5 p.m. Free. 951 Maine Ave., Long Beach. (562) 659-9455. www.willmorecity.org • Winter Wonderfest at Discovery Cube Opening weekend, December 16-17; open daily, December 22 - January 7: Snow is coming to Los Angeles this winter, so bundle up and investigate the science behind weather, snow play, and tubing at Winter Wonderfest. Slide down a 75-foot ramp on an inflatable tube, build snowmen, and sled in real snow during a family-fun day with-

out leaving Southern California! Orange County, 2500 N. Main St., Santa Ana, (714) 542-2823. Los Angeles, 11800 Foothill Blvd., Los Angeles, (818) 686-2823. www.discoverycube.org. See ad on page 23.

Winter Fest OC in Costa Mesa December 21 - January 7: Winter Fest is a giant wonderland of immersive wintry fun featuring a full outdoor ice rink, 130-foot, six-lane Snowflake Summit ice slide, a play park featuring real snow blown in daily for snow angels and snowman building, photos on the world’s largest rocking horse, strolling carolers and personal visits in the cabin of Mr. and Mrs. Claus. A Festival of Lights walk-through holiday light show features more than two million sparkling lights. Daily, check the web site for times. $10-30. OC Fair and Event Center, 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa. www.winterfestoc.com • Snow Days at Kidspace Museum December 26-30: Play in real snow, build your own snowman friend, perfect your snowball-making skills, and make snow angels. Continue to celebrate the season with live performances each day, winter-themed art, and the science of snow. Cookie decorating will also be available for $3 in addition to museum admission.

Break out your mittens, boots, and snow hat for a day of winter wonderland fun! Tuesday - Friday, 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Included with museum admission. 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena. (626) 4499144. www.kidspacemuseum.org. See ad on page 43.

Snow Day in Fullerton January 17: Snow Day in Fullerton features three 75foot sled runs, as well as a special toddler sled run for kids 5 and under. There will also be a Kids’ Play Area, a Blast Zone, and crafts and games for a nominal fee. Saturday, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. $15-21; preregistration is required. Remember to register early as Snow Day sells out every year. Register online or at City Hall. 1700 N. Harbor Blvd., Fullerton. (714) 7386575. www.cityoffullerton.com

CLASSES AGES FOUR - ADULT

con, eggs, potatoes, muffins, coffee, tea and orange juice. Reservation required by phone.

435 Shoreline Village Drive, Long Beach.

(562) 432-6500. www.parkerslighthouse.com Norwalk SnowFest and Tree Lighting Ceremony December 2: See “Snow Days” for details.

Tree Lighting Festivities in Fountain Valley December 2: Enjoy pictures with Santa, games, live entertainment, story time, crafts, and much more! Food will be available for purchase to support local youth organizations. Saturday, 4:30-8 p.m.; the tree will be lit between 5:30-5:45 p.m.

Free to attend. Recreation Center and Sports Park, 16400 Brookhurst St., Fountain Valley.

(714) 839-8611. www.fountainvalley.org Tree Trimming Party and Puppet Show in Huntington Beach December 2: Join Huntington Beach Library’s annual tree decorating party. Kids also make an ornament and visit Santa during the event!

Saturday, 10 a.m. - noon. Tickets, $4 each.

The puppet show is held in the Tabby Theater, ornament making is in the Talbert Room. Central Library, 7111 Talbert, Huntington Beach.

(714) 375-5107.www.hbpl.org Winter Market in Fullerton December 2: Enjoy live holiday entertainment, free pictures with Santa, holiday shopping at vendor and food booths, kids activities, beer and wine garden and more. Bring an unwrapped toy to donate to Toys for Tots. Saturday, noon - 4 p.m. Free admission. Fullerton Downtown Plaza.

(714) 738-6545. www.cityoffullerton.com A Civil War Christmas in Wilmington December 2-3: This annual holiday celebration should not be missed—it’s become a holiday tradition for thousands! The Banning Museum and the Drum Barracks Museum sponsor free horse-drawn carriage rides between the two sites, which are each decorated for true holiday delight. Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Free admission to both museums and carriage rides. Drum Barracks Museum, 1052 Banning Blvd., Wilmington. (310) 548-7509. www. drumbarracks.org Bank of America Patrons Receive Free Admission to Museums December 2-3: Bank of America is helping its customers become “cultured” through their program “Museums on Us,” giving bank cardholders free admission to cultural venues in Southern California. Photo ID and a valid Bank of America/Merrill Lynch credit or debit card must be presented. One free general admission limited to cardholder at participating institutions. Not to be combined with other offers. Museums include: Laguna Art 22 kidsguide holiday guide 2017

lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

Indoor

Playgrounds Indoor playgrounds with unique facilities.

Parties, family sessions, scout/group programs, open play, camps and parents’ night out may be offered. Check websites for discounts and special days.

• Big Air Trampoline Park Big Air Trampoline Parks are the area’s best indoor trampoline parks. See listing on page 36 for more information, and ad on page 22.

AdventurePlex (310) 546-7708 Manhattan Beach. www.adventureplex.org

Playland Cafe (949) 829-2789 Irvine. www.playlandcafe.com Pump it Up Anaheim Hills, Huntington Beach, Irvine, Lake Forest and Torrance. www.pumpitupparty.com Pumper Jumpers (714) 265-7121 Fullerton. www.pumperjumpers.com Silly Goose Playground (310) 539-2792 Lomita. www.sillygooseplayground.com

Billy Beez (657) 242-2430 Anaheim. www.billybeezus.com

Scooter’s Jungle Aliso Viejo, Placentia and El Segundo. www.scootersjungle.com

BounceU Huntington Beach (714) 892-4842 www.bounceu.com/huntingtonbeach

Seascape Kids Fun (714) 970-7100 Anaheim. www.seascapekidsfun.com

BounceU Orange (714) 744-JUMP www.bounceu.com/orange

Twinkle Twinkle Kids Cafe (310) 530-4535 Lomita. www.kidscafetwinkle.com

Frogg’s Bounce House (714) 418-0442 Fountain Valley. www.froggsbouncehouse.com

We Play Loud (949) 328-9616 Lake Forest. www.weplayloud.com

GIGIL – Play Learn Grow (562) 980-0008 Long Beach. www.gigilplay.com

Trampoline Parks: Also see Big Air in this section. Sky High Sports, Costa Mesa, (714) 437-5867, ocy.jumpskyhigh. com. Sky Zone, locations in Anaheim, Torrance, Westminster, www.skyzone.com. Rockin’ Jump, Orange County, (714) 249-7676, www. orangecounty.rockinjump.com.

GetAir, Huntington Beach, (714) 916-5815, www. getairsurfcity.com.

Jump N’ Jammin (949) 582-5890 Mission Viejo. www.jumpnjammin.com Jumper’s Jungle Gardena, Riverside, Santa Fe Springs, and South Gate. www.jumpersjungle.com Jumping Fun Kids Buena Park (714) 787-4994 www.jumpingfunkids.com

Museum, The Living Desert, Discovery Cube (excludes Sundays), LACMA, Autry National Center, Skirball Cultural Center, Hammer Museum and the Museum of Latin American Art. Check museums for hours of operation. www.museums.bankofamerica.com Breakfast with Santa in La Habra December 2-3: He sees you when you’re sleeping, he knows when you’re coming to breakfast!

Get your fill of holiday cheer and yummy treats as you make an ornament for your tree and pose for photos with jolly Santa Claus himself.

After breakfast, guests are welcome to play in the museum too! Saturday and Sunday, 8:30, 9:45 and 11 a.m. Children’s Museum at La Habra, 301 S. Euclid St., La Habra. (562) 3834236. www.lhcm.org Holiday Lamplight Celebration in Los Angeles December 2-3: Experience the annual Holiday Lamplight Celebration with tours beginning at 4 p.m. Witness as the past becomes the present among the beautiful glow of Victorian homes at Heritage Square’s annual holiday event.

Saturday - Sunday, 4-9 p.m. Adults, $30; kids (6-12), $15; not suitable for kids under 6. Reservations required. Heritage Square Museum, 3800 Homer St., Los Angeles. (323) 225-2700. www.heritagesquare.org Holiday Treats for the Aquarium’s Animals December 2-3: In celebration of the holiday season, diver Santa will deliver an ocean of gifts to the Aquarium of the Pacific’s sea otters, seals, sea lions, birds, fish, and other animals. Families can enjoy holiday music, crafts, special presentations, unique photo opportunities, shopping, and more. The Seal and Sea Lion Habitat will be decked out for the “sea-son” with frozen “fishmas” treats. Guests can watch the sea otters savor candy caneshaped ice treats, gourmet lobster tails, and their very own snowman. Throughout the day, Aquarium staff will give special gift delicacies to other marine animals as well. Saturday and Sunday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Adults (12+), $29.95; seniors (62+), $26.95; kids (3-11), $17.95; and free for children under age 3 and Aquarium members. Aquarium of the Pacific, 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach. (562) 590-3100. www.aquariumofpacific.org Tamale Festival in Indio December 2-3: Try all kinds of tasty tamales to start the holiday season, plus a carnival, parade, live music and entertainment, a car show and Kiddie Land activities. Saturday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; and Sunday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Free admission. Downtown Indio, Corner of Miles and Oasis. (760) 832-8620, Ext. 46. www.tamalefestival.net

24 kidsguide holiday guide 2017

lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

THIS HOLIDAY SEASON TAKE A TRIP TO SHERWOOD FOREST WHERE A CLASSIC TALE GOES ROGUE

“It’s a romance, a comedy and a drama. It has swashbuckling, crossdressing and acrobatics. It will be a rare theatergoer who’s not won over.”

– The Boston Globe

“A magical delight!”

– TheaterMania

written by

directed by

David Farr Gisli Örn Gardarsson and Selma Björnsdóttir

NOVEMBER 29 - DECEMBER 17, 2017 Recommended for adults of all ages and brave children.

THE ADVENT UR BEGINS E IN

TWO WEEK S

!

CONNECT WITH US

310.746.4000 | TheWallis.org/RobinHood

Official Airline Sponsor

Kasey Mahaffy, Jeremy Crawford, Christina Bennett Lind, Luke Forbes, Sam Meader. Photo by Luke Fontana.

THE WALLIS AND VESTURPORT PRESENT

dance to upbeat, kid-friendly hip-hop songs about ABCs, 1-2-3s, being polite, and more.

Your kids will have a blast dancing and singing, while learning. Don’t miss this high-energy, interactive show. You’ve never heard children’s music like this before! Sunday, 1 and 3:30 p.m. $9+. La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts, 14900 La Mirada Blvd. (562) 944-9801. www.

LaMiradaTheatre.com. Also, get your tickets now for their other family-friendly shows coming up this season - December 7-17: The Young Americans Present The Magic of Christmas; February 17: Disney’s Frozen Sing-A-Long; February 18: MatheMagic; and June 1-24: Disney’s Newsies. See ad on page 27.

Holiday Parade and Pier Lighting in Huntington Beach December 3: Light up the Huntington Pier and snowflakes on Main Street with a children’s holiday parade featuring Mr. and Mrs. Claus, performances, hot chocolate and cookies.

To kick off the holiday season, thousands of community members will countdown to the Huntington Beach giant snowflake lighting during the annual “Light a Light of Love” holiday celebration and fundraiser to benefit nonprofit Community Service Programs (CSP) Huntington Beach Youth Shelter, a “safe haven” for homeless, runaway, abused and at-risk youth. Sunday, 3:30-7 p.m. Huntington Beach Pier Plaza.

(714) 960-9276. www.cspinc.org Winter-Break Crafts at the Mission San Juan Capistrano December 2-31: Kids (6-12) enjoy special winter-break activities at the Mission, including panning for gold, adobe brick making and arrowhead necklace making. Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. $5 per craft or $10 for three crafts, in addition to admission. 26801 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano. (949) 2341315. www.missionsjc.com • A Christmas Carol at Kidspace December 3: Catch an exclusive sneak peek of A Noise Within’s “A Christmas Carol,” at Kidspace! Experience this delightfully festive, musically merry holiday tradition. Get a preview of the Dickens’ classic, then do a meet and greet with costumed actors. (Perfect photo op for family greeting cards!) Sunday, 10:30 a.m. 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena. (626) 449-9144. www. kidspacemuseum.org. See ad on page 43.

Caring Santa at The Shops at Mission Viejo December 3: Kids with special needs join a special time, before the mall opens, to meet Santa. Sunday, 9-10:30 a.m. Register on their website. 555 The Shops at Mission Viejo, Mission Viejo. www.simon.com/caring-santa Corona del Mar Christmas Walk December 3: The Corona del Mar Chamber 26 kidsguide holiday guide 2017

of Commerce presents the community’s most popular event of the year. A special event filled with holiday festivities for family, friends, residents and visitors looking for a spectacular way to ring in the holiday season. Each year the walk brings together thousands of fun-loving people into the Village of Corona del Mar for live entertainment, food, prizes and games in true holiday spirit. Sunday, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Free. 2855 E. Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar. (949) 673-4050. www.cdmchamber.com

LA Children’s Chorus Winter Concert at Walt Disney Concert Hall December 3: Acclaimed for its pure sound that has made it one of the most in-demand children’s choirs in the country, Los Angeles Children’s Chorus presents its popular Winter Concert, as part of the LA Philharmonic’s prestigious “Sounds About Town” series. Sunday, 7 p.m. Purchase tickets online. Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. (626) 793-4231. www.lachildrenschorus.org

Deck the Halls Concert in Long Beach December 3: The Southern California Brass Consortium presents an evening of new works and holiday classics. Sunday, 4 p.m. $10-20.

Los Altos United Methodist Church, 5950 E. Willow St., Long Beach. www.socalbrass.org

Orange County Walk Now for Autism Speaks December 3: Join thousands of autism supporters and families affected by autism for the annual Orange County Autism Walk. Sunday, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Free registration and resource fair.

Angels Stadium of Anaheim, 2000 E. Gene Autry Way, Anaheim. www.autismspeakswalk.org

• Disney’s Choo-Choo Soul with Genevieve in La Mirada December 3: Straight from the Disney Channel to live on stage, Choo-Choo Soul is coming for two funtastic shows! All aboard the Choo-Choo Soul with Genevieve, as she drives her musical train through magical lands with DC, her beatboxing, break-dancing engineer. The entire family will be entertained while they sing and

• Santa Cares: Autism Speaks at the Irvine Spectrum December 3: Santa Claus is coming to Irvine!

Visit jolly ol’ Saint Nick at his Crystal Cove beachinspired surf shack located in Carousel Court.

Partnering with Autism Speaks, join a special sensory-friendly morning of Santa Cares. Sunday, 8-9:30 a.m. Carousel Court. (949) 7535180. www.shopirvinespectrumcenter.com. See ad on page 28. lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY AT LA MIRADA THEATRE

DECEMBER 3, 2017

FEBRUARY 17, 2018

MARCH 18, 2018

FEBRUARY 18, 2018

MARCH 25, 2018

ON SALE NOW! • (714) 994-6310 • www.LaMiradaTheatre.com

Sensitive Santa at the Westminster Mall December 3: For children needing more time and those with special needs, Westminster Mall sets aside a special time with Santa. Sunday, 8-10 a.m. Reserve your ticket online. 1025 Westminster Mall, Westminster. (714) 8982559. www.westminstermall.com Target Free Day in La Habra December 3: Discover how children across the globe celebrate the season of giving and take part in art-making, music, and stories celebrating Christmas, Hanukah, Kwanza, Las Posadas, and Diwali. A total of 500 people are admitted on Target Free Sundays. Session times are 1-2:45 p.m. and 3:15-5 p.m. Children’s Museum at La Habra, 301 S. Euclid St., La Habra.

(562) 383-4236. www.lhcm.org Tree Lighting and Candlelight Choir December 3: Gather in Plaza Square for an evening of holiday cheer, live music, and family fun.

The Orange Master Chorale presents music of the season as a live orchestra and singers fill the night air with song. Youth activities and yummy treats for a nominal charge. Sunday, 3:30 p.m.; ceremony begins at 5:15 p.m. Old Towne Orange Plaza. (714) 744-7293. www.cityoforange.org Tuba Christmas in LA December 3: Hear traditional Christmas songs played by seasoned tuba players of all ages.

Sunday, 7 p.m. Free. Forest Lawn Hollywood Hills, 6300 Forest Lawn Drive, Hollywood Hills. www.tubachristmas.com Victorian Christmas at the Bembridge House in Long Beach December 3: Rediscover the magic of an oldetyme Christmas. Experience a family-friendly celebration focused on holiday traditions in this lovingly decorated historic house. There will be refreshments and crafts for kids in the Carriage House, Christmas favors, and a garden boutique.

Sunday, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. $10; kids (12 and under), free. RSVP required. 953 Park Circle, Long Beach. www.lbheritage.org Winter Celebration in Calabasas December 3: Join the Leonis Adobe Museum for the annual family-friendly Winter Celebration featuring holiday arts and crafts, live music, and more. The grounds and house will be decked out in holiday cheer for all to see! Members, free; non-members, $8. Sunday, 2-5 p.m.

23537 Calabasas Road, Calabasas. (818) 2226511. www.leonisadobemuseum.org Winter Wonderland at the Irvine Civic Center December 3: Celebrate winter as “snow” falls over the Irvine Civic Center and the community gathers for games, crafts, music, hot chocolate, entertainment and food. The City’s signature 28 kidsguide holiday guide 2017

lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

holiday event includes a Joyful Jingles holiday concert and visit from Santa Claus. Sunday, 3-7 p.m. Admission is free. 1 Civic Center Plaza, Irvine. www.cityofirvine.org/irvinekidsguide American Girl Welcomes Santa in LA December 3, 8, 10, and 15: Share a holiday experience that includes a jolly “ho-ho-ho!” Santa is coming to the store. The perfect photo opportunity! This festive event includes one 5x7 keepsake photo per girl, plus a delicious meal to enjoy during your visit. Recommended for girls ages 3 and up. Friday, 5:45-7 p.m. Sunday, 8:30-10 a.m. $25 per person; reservations required.

American Girl, 189 The Grove Drive, Los Angeles.(877) 247-5223. www.americangirl.com • SOCO and The OC Mix - Nutcracker Celebration and Holiday Festivities December 3, 10 and 17: It’s the most wonderful time of the year! You’re invited to celebrate the holiday season at SOCO and The OC Mix in Costa Mesa. Bring your family and friends to enjoy free, family-friendly days filled with photos with Santa, a festive photo booth, dancers from Festival Ballet Theatre, live music and holiday activities. Complimentary gift-wrapping will be available for holiday shoppers for a suggested donation to benefit Project Hope Alliance. In addition, enjoy pop-ups from some favorite small business brands like Wunderkid and Yarnover Truck. Sunday, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

For more information and details, please visit www.socoandtheocmix.com. 3313 Hyland Ave., Costa Mesa. www.sococollection.com.

See ad on page 3.

Tree Lighting Ceremony and Community Sing in Westminster December 4: This year’s event features a holiday welcome from Mayor Ta and the Westminster City Council and performances by local community groups. Plus, Santa Claus will be present for visits during the festivities. For your convenience, refreshments will be available for purchase.

Please bring canned goods to donate to those in need this holiday season. Monday, 6:30 p.m.

Free. Westminster Civic Center, 8200 Westminster Blvd., Westminster. (714) 895-2860. www. westminster-ca.gov Tree Lighting Ceremony in Downey December 4: See “Snow Days” for details.

• Young Explorer Program in Downey December 4: Some may wonder why December is the last month in the year, and why we repeat this pattern every 365 (or 364) days. Kids (3-5) can discover how the calendar came to be, and why we use it (including why the analog clock is still used today to tell time). Guardian participation is required; one guardian per child. 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. $12 non-members, or $7 for CMSC members. Fee includes all-day admis30 kidsguide holiday guide 2017

sion. Columbia Memorial Space Center, 12400 Columbia Way, Downey. (562) 231-1200. www. columbiaspacescience.org. See ad on page 10.

Cypress Community Holiday Sing and Tree Lighting December 5: Cypress Recreation sponsors this community event featuring a tree lighting, school performances, train rides, cookie decorating, visits with Santa and refreshments.

Tuesday, 6 p.m. Free. Civic Center Green, Cypress. (714) 229-6780. www.cypressrec.com • Free Family Night, “Winter Around the World,” at Kidspace in Pasadena December 5: Celebrate the winter solstice traditions from around the world at Kidspace. Participate in winter ice experiments, make and learn how to play dreidel, participate in Las Posadas, and more! Don’t miss a special cultural performance at 6 p.m. Tuesday, 4-8 p.m. Free. 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena. (626) 449-9144. www. kidspacemuseum.org. See ad on page 43.

Here Comes Santa Claus in Orange December 5: Kids of all ages can meet the big guy himself and tell him their wishes. Tuesday, 6-7:30 p.m. Free. Orange Library and History Center, 407 E. Chapman Ave., Orange. (714) 288-2400. www.cityoforange.org Tree Lighting in Garden Grove December 5: Enjoy festive entertainment, refreshments and a visit by Santa and Mrs. Claus, along with a Christmas tree lighting. Tuesday, 6:30 p.m. Village Green Park, 12732 Main St., Garden Grove. (714) 741-5200. www. ci.garden-grove.ca.us Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony in Stanton December 7: Join the City of Stanton for a tree lighting with entertainment. Plus, photos with Santa. Thursday, 6-7:30 p.m. Stanton Central Park, 10660 Western Ave., Stanton. (714) 8904270. www.ci.stanton.ca.us La Virgen de Guadalupe in Los Angeles December 7-8: A 15-year Los Angeles tradition, the city’s largest theatrical holiday production stars renowned opera singer Suzanna Guzman, plus 100 actors, singers and dancers, including children and seniors from the community. Join the tens of thousands who have become transfixed by the story of Juan Diego, a simple peasant to whom the Virgin Mary appeared on four occasions in the mountains of Tepeyac near Mexico City in 1531. Performed in Spanish with English subtitles. Thursday and Friday, 7:30 p.m. Free; reserved seating, $40. Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels, 555

W. Temple St., Los Angeles. (866) 811-4111. www.thelatc.org Breakfast with Santa in Newport Beach December 8: Join a fun breakfast with Santa, plus crafts and photos. Friday, 9:30-11 a.m. $15 per person; kids (2 and under), free. Preregistration required. Newport Coast Community Center, 6401 San Joaquin Hills Road, Newport Beach. (949) 270-8100. www.tinyurl.com/BreakfastWithSantaNB Christmas Tree Lighting in Tustin December 8: Kick-off the holiday season at this free event with holiday carols, stage entertainment, and the traditional tree lighting. Friday, 6 p.m. Tustin Library Courtyard, 345 E. Main St., Tustin. (714) 573-3326. www.tustinca.org Free AAA Car Seat Safety Class in Newport Beach December 8: Join the Auto Club for a free class on the proper use of car seats, including how to select the right seat for your child and tips on car seat installation. Adults only; they will not install the car seat, but provide tips. Friday, 5:30-7 p.m.

Registration required. Hoag Memorial Hospital, 1 Hoag Drive, Newport Beach. (714) 885-2312. www.tinyurl.com/AAACarSeatSafety • Someone Special-and-Me Gingerbread House Workshop in Irvine December 8: Tiny chefs (3-6), with the help of a parent, learn how to decorate a Gingerbread house using icing, candy and sprinkles. Friday, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. $49 includes up to three family members per house. Call or visit their website to register. 15435 Jeffery Road, #132, Irvine. (949) 679-8390. www.lilchefschool. com. See ad on page 18.

Tree Lighting and Toy Drive in Buena Park December 8: Enjoy a special Winter Follies performance, tree lighting and visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, plus Snoopy, knights and pirates. Seasonal treats and warm refreshments will be available for purchase. In honor of this season of giving, the event is also host to a toy drive benefiting local charities. Attendees are encouraged to bring new, unwrapped gifts for children. Friday, 6 p.m. Free to attend. City Hall, 6650 Beach Blvd., Buena Park. (714) 5623860. www.buenapark.com Holly Jolly Light Tour in Mission Viejo December 8-9: Enjoy a VIP reception and tour the Home Lighting Contest displays aboard deluxe transportation. Friday and Saturday, 6-7:30 and 8-9:30 p.m. $10 per person. (949) 470-3062. www.cityofmissionviejo.org • Nights of 1000 Lights at Sherman Library and Gardens December 8-9: The 4th Annual Nights of 1000 lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

Has Your Child been Diagnosed with or Identified as Having a Learning Difference such as Dyslexia or ADHD?

PRENTICE IS THE ANSWER FOR STUDENTS WHO LEARN DIFFERENTLY Dyslexia • Dyscalculia • Dysgraphia • ADHD • Anxiety

Tubing &

Sledding • Snow Los Angeles at Elysian Park and San Diego Through December 30: See “Snow Days” for details.

• Alpine Slide and Snow Play Late November - March: Enjoy tubing and snow play, plus take a chairlift ride to the top of the Alpine Slide where riders navigate their own individually controlled sleds, each with teflon runners and ball-bearing wheels, down their choice of two quarter-mile long cement tracks filled with high-banked turns and long straightways.

Go-Karts and mini-golf is also offered. Check website for seasonal dates and operating times, including Christmas Day. Tubing: $30 per person ages 7 and up, includes inner tube and Magic Carpet ride to the top. Kids (2-6) are free with a paying adult. Alpine Slide: $6, single ride; $25, five-ride book. Kids ages 2-6 and under 48” may ride for free with an adult aged 18 and older. 800 Wildrose Lane, Big Bear Lake. (909) 866-4626. www.alpineslidebigbear.com. See ad on page 2.

• Big Bear Snow Play Late-November through Easter: Day and night “glow” tubing at Big Bear Snow Play. Daily, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Glow-in-the-dark night sessions, 5-9 p.m., Friday, Saturday and holiday periods.

Christmas Eve, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Christmas Day, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Day tubing, $35 (7+); night tubing, $30. Kids (2-6) are free with a paying adult.

42825 Big Bear Blvd., Big Bear Lake. (909) 5850075. www.bigbearsnowplay.com. See ad on page 2.

• North Pole Tubing Park at Mountain High December - Mid-March: For the closest snow tubing in Southern California head to the North Pole Tubing Park at Mountain High’s North Resort! The North Pole Tubing Park is the largest sliding facility in Southern California with up to ten lanes, two moving carpets and custom tubes.

Open Saturdays, Sundays and holidays, 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Two hours $30. Tubes are included in the ticket price. Take advantage of their EarlyBird Special at 8:30 a.m. Perfect for celebrations and birthday parties. Kids under 36’’ tall are not permitted for safety reasons. Visit www.mthigh.

32 kidsguide holiday guide 2017

com for directions or call toll free (888) 7547878. www.mthigh.com. See ad on page 33.

Mt. Baldy Tubing Park Thanksgiving weekend - end of snow season: Ride to the top of Sugarpine Chair Lift #1 for a zip downhill at the Mt. Baldy Tubing Park. Daily sessions are 90 minutes each, starting at 8:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. Kids must be at least 36” tall. Check weather conditions first and get there a half-hour early for your ski-lift ride.

(909) 982-0800. www.mtbaldyskilifts.com Snowdrift Snow Tubing Park Through March: Southern California’s largest and oldest snow tubing park, Snowdrift, offers tubing fun on snow tubes that are specially designed with belly straps and handles. Beginner, intermediate and advanced slopes available.

Weather permitting, Monday - Friday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.; Saturday, Sunday and holidays, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Call first to confirm they are open for the season, for pricing and snow conditions. Highway 18, four miles past Running Springs. (909) 867-2640. www.snowdrift.net Snow Valley Snow Play Through March: Enjoy a scenic chairlift ride followed by a thrilling downhill sled ride. Snow accessories, including snow boots, gloves and waterproof pants, are available for purchase in the Sport Shop. Plus, watch your friends and family take part in the Snow Play adventure while enjoying some food or a drink on a sun deck. Weather permitting, Friday - Sunday, plus holidays, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Call or visit their website to confirm they are open for the season, snow conditions and ticket prices. Snow Valley Mountain Resort. (909) 867-2751. www. snow-valley.com

Lights celebration will include all new light displays featuring more lights than ever, including an expanded light tunnel, light orbs and light tubes. In the Central Garden a live-cut 20 foot Christmas tree will feature “natural bling.” Plus, enjoy a light show in the Tropical Conservatory that will have you “singing in the rain.” A flurry of fun awaits visitors in the Big Shade Garden and a red sparkle ceiling will dazzle in the Fern Grotto. For a Caribbean Christmas experience, sail on up to the Tea Garden where a pink paradise of poinsettias and flamingos and the sounds of Christmas music with a Calypso influence set the scene. All guests will enjoy complimentary coffee, hot chocolate, cookies and a make-your-own ‘smores station. There will also be a photo op with Santa, holiday photo booth, and fun arts and crafts. Members, $10; non-members, $15; kids (5 and under), free.

Friday and Saturday, 6-9 p.m. This is a rain or shine event. 2647 E. Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar. (949) 673-2261. www.slgardens.org. See ad on page 9.

Dinner with Santa at Descanso Gardens December 8-9 and 15-16: Share a jolly evening with the Man in Red! The dinner includes a buffet and fun activities for the youngsters. Friday and Saturday, 5 and 7 p.m. Call or visit website for prices, register by December 4. 1418 Descanso Drive, La Canada Flintridge. (818) 7903663. www.descansogardens.org Christmas Prince of Peace Pageant in Long Beach December 8-10: The Prince of Peace Pageant is a candlelit outdoor walk sponsored by six churches with displays telling the story of Christmas, complete with actors and live animals. Follow the path through many nativity scenes. Delightful singers, musicians, chimes and handbells complete the joyous celebration. Friday - Sunday, 7:30-9 p.m. Performances and refreshments are free for all. 5500 block of Wardlow Road between Bellflower Blvd. and Woodruff Ave. www. tinyurl.com/ChristmasPrinceLB • Gingerbread House Decorating Workshop with Lil’ Chefs December 8 and 14: Lil’ Chefs (5+) will make and decorate gingerbread cookies to add to their premade gingerbread houses. Lil’ Chefs will learn how to make icing, use fondant, make Christmas trees using sugar cones, and plenty of candy and sprinkles to decorate their own masterpieces. Hot cocoa and popcorn will be served during class while listening to your favorite holiday jingles. Friday, December 8, 6-8 p.m. Thursday, December 14, 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. $59; $50 for an additional sibling. Visit their website to register. 15435 Jeffery Road., #132, Irvine. (949) 679-8390. www.lilchefschool.com. See ad on page 18. lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

• Holiday Boat Parade in Dana Point Harbor December 8-9 and 15-16: Celebrate the holiday season at the spectacular 43rd annual Boat Parade of Lights at Dana Point Harbor! Enjoy a holiday extravaganza throughout the harbor each night that features carolers, superheroes, games, crafts, and free photos with Santa, and culminates with the Boat Parade. Fridays and Saturdays. Festivities begin at 4:30 p.m., “A Superhero Holiday” Boat Parade starts at 7:30 p.m. Trolley service will be available from 3:3010:30 p.m. www.DanaPointHarbor.com. See ad on page 37.

Breakfast With Santa In Seal Beach December 9: Enjoy a pancake breakfast with Santa, holiday crafts, and a photo opportunity. Saturday, 8-10:30 a.m. Free, first-come, first-served. Marina Community Center, 151 Marina Drive. (562) 4312527, Ext. 1344. www.sealbeachca.gov Children’s Holiday Gala in Long Beach December 9: The inaugural family-friendly Children’s Holiday Gala will provide fun, games, music and crafts with kid-friendly cuisine, a hot cocoa bar, a Holiday Palm Tree Lighting Ceremony and a special performance by Latin Grammy-winning artists Lucky Diaz and the Family Jam Band. Adults, $60; kids, $40.

Saturday, 3-6 p.m. Museum of Latin American Art, 628 Alamitos Ave., Long Beach. (562) 4371689. www.molaa.org Children’s Holiday Party in Bellflower December 9: Join the City of Bellflower for a holiday party with crafts, activities, refreshments and a visit with Santa. Saturday, 10:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. Free to attend. Simms Park, 16614 S. Clark Ave., Bellflower. (562) 8667510. www.bellflower.org Children’s Workshop Chocolate Unwrapped in San Marino December 9: Kids (7-12) unwrap the history of chocolate, from its ancient origins as a drink for Mayan and Aztec nobility to its modern-day uses in baking and candy making. The hands-on fun includes a tour of the “Visual Voyages” exhibition followed by a baking session. Each participant will receive a recipe book to take home. Saturday, 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. $55-65. Fee includes one accompanying adult. The Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens, 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino. (800) 838-3006. www.huntington.org Christmas Parade in Whittier December 9: Enjoy “An Old Time in Uptown” as marching bands, vintage automobiles, local dignitaries, floats, equestrians, civic groups, dance troupes, drill teams, marching bands and Santa Claus himself roll through historic Uptown Whittier. Saturday, 10 a.m. - noon.

34 kidsguide holiday guide 2017

Free. Whittier Blvd. and Greenleaf Ave. www. whittieruptown.org Christmas Tree Lane Lighting in Altadena December 9: For the 97th year, officials will flip the switch on a mile of deodar cedar Christmas trees strung with 10,000 lights at the oldest large-scale Christmas lighting spectacle in the country. The festival includes holiday treats, entertainment, community booths and photos with Santa. Saturday, festival 2 p.m., lighting ceremony, 6 p.m. Santa Rosa Ave. between Woodbury Ave. and Altadena Drive. www.christmastreelane.net Cookies with Santa in Signal Hill December 9: Spend some time with Santa and Mrs. Claus as you decorate cookies, make crafts, and enjoy other holiday activities. There will be an opportunity for the children to take a picture on Santa’s lap. Wear your favorite holiday pajamas. Saturday, 6:30 p.m. Limited space available. Call to pre-register. Signal Hill Public Library, 1780 E. Hill St., Signal Hill. (562) 989-7330. www.cityofsignalhill.org Dickens Day Celebration in Carson December 9: The highlight will be Mr. Charles Dickens himself entertaining guests in the Museum’s Heritage Theater retelling “A Christmas Carol” and becoming Scrooge, while randomly using his audience as cast members. Be sure to come dressed in your finest Victorian dress because it would be a humbug otherwise! Saturday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. with three shows each day. $25 or $80 for a group of four, advance tickets are highly recommended and a group discount is available. The International Printing Museum, 315 Torrance Blvd., Carson. (310) 515-7166. www.printmuseum.org Family Bird Walk at the Arboretum December 9: Bring your binoculars and wear comfortable walking shoes, and join an experienced birder and naturalist for a fun morning of finding and watching our fine-feathered friends.

The walk is open to all ages and levels of birding knowledge; kids must be accompanied by an adult. Saturday, 8 a.m. Free. Meet at the steps leading to the arboretum entrance. Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden, 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia. www.arboretum.org Free 1K Kids’ Penguin Waddle in Pomona December 9: Dress up as your favorite holiday character for this free kids’ 1K fun run through the Pomona Fairplex, part of the grown-ups’ Holiday Half Marathon and 5K. Each registered waddler (12 and under) receives a race bib, finisher’s certificate and penguin medal. Registration’s capped at 1,000 runners, so sign up

now. Saturday, age-group waves start at 9:45 a.m. 1101 W. McKinley Ave., Pomona. www. motivrunning.com Gingerbread Houses at Art To Grow On December 9: Bring the entire family and learn how to frost, design and decorate your very own gingerbread house. Includes all holiday candies, lollipops, gum-drops, candy canes, snow icing and more! Saturday, 10 a.m., 1, or 4 p.m. $85. Register online. Manhattan Beach Creative Arts Center, 1560 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach. (310) 625-6028. www.art2growon.com Hansel and Gretel at Segerstrom Center for the Arts December 9: Enjoy a concert for the whole family with a special, hour-long version of Engelbert Humperdinck’s beloved opera Hansel and Gretel, the classic tale of two siblings walking through the dark and foreboding woods and their daring escape from the evil witch and her gingerbread house of sweets. Tickets start at $15. Saturday, 2 p.m. 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa. (714) 556-2787. www.scfta.org Ho Ho Night Hike in Brea December 9: See Carbon Canyon Regional Park in the dark! Park rangers lead a hike to the Redwood Grove showcasing the natural wonders that can only be seen at night. The Ho Ho Night Hike will feature a visit to the Nature Center, hot cocoa and cookies, a live animal presentation and a hike through the wilderness area. Please dress warmly, wear good walking shoes and bring a flashlight. (No pets, please.)

Saturday, 5:30-8 p.m. Call to register. 4442 Carbon Canyon Road, Brea. (714) 973-3160. www.ocparks.com/events Holiday Open House at Wells Fargo History Museum December 9: Explore the interactive exhibits while also enjoying fun trivia, snacks and prizes, plus pictures with Santa. Saturday, noon 5 p.m. Free admission; metered parking. 333 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. (213) 253-7166. www.wellsfargohistory.com Holiday Season Celebration on Catalina Island December 9: Enjoy a Holiday Symphony Concert in the historic Casino Theatre, featuring the children’s choir of the McCoy Rigby Conservatory of the Arts and a select group of Avalon students followed by a screening of the holiday classic, “It’s a Wonderful Life.” Saturday, concert, 4 p.m.; screening, 5 p.m. $10-15. 217 Metropole Ave. www.catalinamuseum.org Lakeshore Learning’s Free Saturday Workshops December 9: Kids (3+) make a frosty face mask. lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

Saturday, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Free. No reservations necessary. Carson, (310) 537-4778; Fountain Valley, (714) 963-8255; and Laguna Hills, (949) 462-9353. www.lakeshorelearning.com Long Beach Daisy Avenue Tree Lighting and Parade December 9: See the brightest street in Long Beach light up, plus the Daisy Avenue Christmas Tree Lane Parade! Bring blankets and chairs. Saturday, 5 p.m. Daisy Ave., between Hill St. and Pacific Coast Hwy. (562) 570-7777. www.longbeach.gov Naples Boat Parade in Long Beach December 9: Twinkling Christmas lights decorate the small boats that cruise the canals of Naples, while larger boats sail through the bay.

Hundreds of homes and boats are festively decorated throughout the season, inspired by an annual decorating competition. Theme: “The Canals are Alive with the Sound of Music.”

Saturday, 6 p.m. Free to spectate. (562) 5989401. www.naplesca.com • “Planet Kindergarten” Author Visit at Kidspace December 9: Kids are invited to the Storyteller Studio to meet Sue Ganz-Schmitt, author of the “Planet Kindergarten” picture books. Astronaut and space-themed attire is encouraged for dress-up fun during the story time. The books will be available for purchase and Sue will autograph your copy! Saturday, 1:30-3:30 p.m.

480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena. (626) 449-9144. www.kidspacemuseum.org. See ad on page 43.

• Star Wars Skate Night at The Rinks – Anaheim ICE December 9: Join The Rinks for their Star Wars Skate Night on Saturday from 7-9 p.m. Wear your favorite Star Wars costume or apparel to enter raffles throughout the night, including autographed Anaheim Ducks items and tickets.

300 West Lincoln Ave., Anaheim. (714) 535RINK. www.TheRinks.com. See ad on page 17.

Surfing Santa and Live Concert at the Redondo Beach Pier December 9: Surfing Santa makes his annual appearance along with a holiday concert and Surfing Santa photo ops. Saturday, 2-4 p.m.

Free admission and parking. 100 Fisherman’s Wharf, Redondo Beach. www.RedondoPier.com Tuba Christmas in Anaheim December 9: Hear traditional Christmas songs played by seasoned tuba players of all ages.

Saturday, noon. Free. Downtown Disney. www. tubachristmas.com A Bach Christmas Performance in Long Beach and Los Angeles December 9-10: A holiday favorite! An all-Bach lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

Have You Signed Up for The Buzzz?

It’s a parenting game-changer! Click here. kidsguide holiday guide 2017 35

Attractions • Big Air Trampoline Park Big Air Trampoline Park is Orange County’s best indoor trampoline park. Unique features include a Battle Beam, a Climbing Wall, Lil Air (for jumpers ages 7 and younger), Main Court, Dodgeball Courts, a Foam Pit, Slam Dunk Basketball and the first trampoline Laser Maze on the West Coast! Big Air is the perfect location for birthday and team parties, group trips, and corporate team building. Seasonal park promotions and specials are listed at www.bigairusa.com/laguna-hills.

Reservations for groups of 15+ can be made by calling their Events Department. Check out their extended hours for the holidays! Laguna Hills, 23251 Avenida de la Carlota, (949) 305-9788. See ad on page 22.

CHILL at the Queen Mary in Long Beach December 13 - January 7: Embark on an International Christmas Expedition at the all-new CHILL, featuring the Ice Adventure Park and a touching tribute to cultural traditions from around the world.

Chill showcases a global sampling of food, music and live entertainment, plus ice sports. This oneof-a-kind experience will celebrate the traditions of Christmas from six different regions in an exploration of international fare and cultural celebration, dancing and live performances. On the way to Chill’s Russia area, people will go through a “snow zone” and pass through falling snow as they enter a dome where a light show that uses projection mapping recreates the famous Northern Lights. Plus, enjoy new attractions such as zip lining and the alpine lodge. Sunday night fireworks, a nightly Christmas Tree Lighting and visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus are sure to put you in the holiday spirit. CHILL is open daily (except December 31). 1126 Queens Hwy., Long Beach.(877) 342-0738. www.queenmary.com.

• Columbia Memorial Space Center The 20,000-square-foot, hands-on learning center is dedicated to bringing the wonder and excitement of space science to all ages. It is also the national memorial for the 2003 Space Shuttle Columbia’s seven crew members. 12400 Columbia Way, Downey.

(562) 231-1200. www.columbiaspacescience.org.

See ad on page 10.

• Golf N’ Stuff Family Fun Park December 1-31: With Golf N’ Stuff’s “North Pole Pack,” the kids can enjoy two full hours unlimited use of: go-karts, bumper boats and kiddie train. Plus, one round of miniature golf, and a cool cookie. All for just $19 per person (regularly $30; prices subject to change without notice). Park opens daily at 10 a.m.; they’re even open on Christmas Day at 2 p.m. 10555 E. Firestone Blvd., Norwalk. (562) 868-9956. www. golfnstuff.com. See ad with coupons on page 4.

Jungle Bells at San Diego Zoo December 8 - January 1: The San Diego Zoo’s annual winter celebration is filled with holiday cheer! During the three-week wintery celebration, guests can experience holiday-themed animal presentations and a

nightly tree lighting ceremony, as well as other festive activities. Daily, 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. for the Jungle Bells celebration. Included with admission. 2920 Zoo Drive, San Diego. (619) 231-1515. www.sandiegozoo.org L.A. Zoo Lights and Reindeer Romp at the Los Angeles Zoo Through January 7: Guests enjoy LED lights by the thousands, giant illuminated snowflakes, a disco ball forest, glittering twinkle tunnels, stunning 3-D animated projections, and a laser show set to music. The show boasts majestic screens of water with projections of fanciful animation, an animal shadow puppet installation complete with interactive photo op, a new waterfall feature in the Children’s Zoo, and a giant illuminated snake atop the LAIR. Inside the LAIR, guests are bathed in ultraviolet light for a black light party with scurrying “insects” above the rock walls. Daily, except Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas. Adults, $9-14+; kids (2-12), $9-11+. 5333 Zoo Drive, Los Angeles. (323) 6444200. www.lazoolights.org • Pretend City Children’s Museum Pretend City Children’s Museum is an interconnected city designed for children (infant-8). The city is comprised of a grocery store, farm, doctor’s office, art studio, amphitheater, beach, marina, construction site and many other exhibits. At Pretend City, children learn through role play based on real-world experiences as they dress up as a police officer, deliver the mail, create art, compose music or put out a fire. Designed to align with the California State Standards and Preschool Learning Foundation, Pretend City’s educational programs engage children (pre-school - 3rd grade) through school field trips, where the museum is the classroom and learning comes to life! 29 Hubble, Irvine. (949) 428-3900. www.pretendcity.org. See ad on page 6.

SkyPark Santa’s Village Features Santa’s House, North Pole, Polar Express train rides, Silver Bells Skating pond, Santa’s workshop, North Pole post office, Santa’s Toy Dumptruck, Blitzen’s Bungee, Frozen Falls Climbing Tower, Arrow’s Adventure, Magic Tree Bouldering Room, Serrano Archery Range, Santa Village Mining Co. and Chapel of the Little Shepherd. New attractions this year include a zipline, climbing tower, archery, hiking trails and a Fantasy Forest evening walk. Adults, $59; kids (4-13), $49. Kids ages 3 and under are free. 28950 California 18, Skyforest.

(909) 744-9373. www.skyparksantasvillage.com • Vans Skatepark Vans Skatepark is a 40,000-square-foot facility featuring a full skate and BMX course for all skill levels ages 6+. The location also houses a full Vans retail store and skate pro shop. Birthday party packages, private lessons and skate camps are available. Vans Skatepark is open seven days a week, 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. (9 p.m. on Sundays). Please go to vans.com/skateparks for more

information. Sign up for Holiday Clinics on Saturday, December 9 and 16. 20 City Blvd. West, Orange. (714) 769-3800. www.vans.com. See ad on page 7.

Winter Zoobilation at Santa Ana Zoo December 1-31: The zoo will be transformed into a winter wonderland called “Winter Zoobilation” with snow, lights and special holiday decorations for all to enjoy.

Daily. Included with admission. 1801 Chestnut Ave., Santa Ana. (714) 953-8555. www.santaanazoo.org Seasonal Fun at Theme Parks Disneyland and Disney California Adventure Through January 8, enjoy holiday festivities such as the Christmas Fantasy Parade, It’s a Small World, Haunted Mansion Holiday, and Disney Viva Navidad street party at California Adventure Park. 1313 Disneyland Drive, Anaheim. www.disneyland.com Knott’s Berry Farm Through January 7, enjoy “Merry Christmas, Snoopy!” on Ice, “It’s the Merriest Christmas Show Ever, Charlie Brown” holiday show, Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” and O. Henry’s “A Gift of the Magi” at the Bird Cage, a crafts fair, carolers, holiday decorations, and nightly snow in Ghost Town.

Plus, visit with Santa and enjoy seasonal treats. 8039 Beach Blvd., Buena Park. www.knotts.com Legoland Holidays at Legoland, November 24 - January 1, plus a New Year’s Eve kids’ celebration. One Legoland Drive, Carlsbad. www.legoland.com SeaWorld Christmas Celebration, through January 6, brings holiday attractions including Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, a Christmas village and holiday-themed animal shows. Daily. Included with admission. www. seaworldsandiego.com Six Flags Magic Mountain Holidays in the Park, through December 31. The park is transformed into a winter wonderland with lights, carolers and meet-and-greets with Santa. 26101 Magic Mountain Pkwy., Valencia. www.sixflags.com Universal Studios Hollywood Grinchmas takes over the park with story times, tree lightings and snow. 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City. www. universalstudioshollywood. com

Equipped for the next step!

Come see what a private Christian education could mean for your family!

Valley Christian High School Valley Christian Middle School Valley Christian Elementary School

Saturday, January 27 - 10:00am Saturday, January 27 - 12:00pm Saturday, February 3 - 10:00am

Learn more at vcschools.org or for a personal tour, call 562.860.0557

lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

kidsguide holiday guide 2017 37

program featuring glorious trumpets in the 4th Orchestral Suite, the tender nativity scene from the Christmas Oratorio, and the grandeur of the Magnificat. Saturday, 7 p.m., Beverly O’Neill Theater, Long Beach. Sunday, 2 p.m., Zipper Hall, Colburn School of Music, Los Angeles. $20+. www.musicaangelica.org Candlelight Walks at Heritage Hill December 9-10: Celebrate the season with two enchanting evenings with luminary lit paths, park aglow with holiday lighting, strolls through restored historic buildings adorned in holiday decor, carolers, live entertainment, storytellers, visits with Santa, and refreshments available for a nominal fee.

Saturday - Sunday, 5:30-8:30 p.m. Admission, $5. 25151 Serrano Road, Lake Forest.

(949) 923-2230. www.ocparks.com/events Holiday Merriment at the Homestead Museum December 9-10: How did Christmas in Los Angeles change from the days of the Mexican ranchos through the 1920s? See for yourself as you tour the decorated historic houses. Enjoy crafts, music, visiting with Santa Claus, and more! Saturday and Sunday, noon - 4 p.m. Picnics are welcome.

Free admission. 15415 E. Don Julian Road, City of Industry. (626) 968-8493. www. homesteadmuseum.org • Toddler Time and Toddler Time en Español at Kidspace Museum December 9-10: Toddlers (12-36 months) can explore art, science and more though song and play at Kidspace! In this preview of their Early Learner Program, get a taste of how much fun Kidspace has exploring the world in their Baby and Me, and Bebe’ y Yo classes, beginning January 2018. Toddler Time, Saturday, 9-10:30 a.m. Toddler Time en Español, Sunday, 10-11:30 a.m. $30.

480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena. (626) 4499144. www.kidspacemuseum.org. See ad on page 43.

A Rawhide Country Christmas at Rawhide Ranch in Bonsall December 9-10 and 16-17: Join a magical holiday event at Rawhide Ranch, a 40-acre working ranch and camp nestled in the hills of Bonsall. This four day Christmas family event offers something for adults and kids of all ages. Come for a couple of hours, or stay all day. Activities include pony rides, hay rides, photos with Santa, Christmas lights, BBQ dinner, holiday snacks and refreshments, horse vaulting exhibit, carolers, live music, carols around a campfire, and arts and crafts fair. Saturday and Sunday, 3-8 p.m. Free admission, minimal fee for activities and BBQ dinner. Parking, $10. 6987 W. 38 kidsguide holiday guide 2017

Lilac Road, Bonsall. (760) 758-0083. www. rawhidechristmas.com

Animal Care Center, 6443 Oak Canyon, Irvine. www.cityofirvine.org/irvinekidsguide

• Vans Skatepark Holiday Skate Clinics December 9 and 16: Vans Skatepark in Orange, a 40,000-square-foot facility, offers two Holiday Clinics on Saturday, December 9 and 16.

Instruction is offered for beginner to advanced street skateboarders, ages 6-16. Pizza lunch is included. Clinic hours: 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. $40 for members; $50 for non-members. Space is limited, so sign up today. 20 City Blvd., West, Orange. (714) 769-3800. www.vans.com. See ad on page 7.

• Illusionist Ryne Strom at Kidspace

A Snow White Christmas in Santa Ana December 9-17: Join Snow White, Rose Red, a polar bear, and seven magical elves as they face off against the Ice Queen in a classic tale of good versus evil. $10-15. Saturday and Sunday, 2 p.m. Ebell Theater, 625 French St., Santa Ana. www.tinyurl.com/SnowWhiteChristmas Family Day in El Segundo December 10: Tell a story using just your hands, fun accessories, and a polaroid camera. Art materials are provided. All ages and skill levels are welcome. Sunday, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Free.

208 Main St., El Segundo. (424) 277-1020. www.esmoa.org Hanukkah Family Festival at Skirball December 10: Inspired by the Getty’s Pacific Standard Time: LA/LA Initiative, this year’s festival explores the themes of Hanukkah through the traditions of Los Angeles’s rich and diverse Latin American communities.

Get on your feet for musical performances

by Latin Jewish bands Klezmer Juice and Pan Felipe, and learn salsa, cumbia, mambo, hip-hop, and more with the beloved dance ensembles Versa-Style and Mambo Inc. Then create a community art installation with acclaimed visual artist Sandy Rodriguez, and learn about Mexican chocolate and decorate chocolate gelt. Sunday, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Adults, $12; kids (2-12), $7. 2701 N. Sepulveda Blvd., Los Angeles. (310) 440-4500. www.skirball.org Home for the Holidays Pet Adoption Fair in Irvine December 10: Help animals find homes at the pet adoption fair. More than 40 pet rescue groups and animal shelters will bring about 600 homeless dogs, cats, rabbits and small animals for adoption. The fair also features dozens of pet-related vendors, gourmet food trucks, a silent auction, low-cost microchipping on-site, and more. Suggested donation is $2 per person or $5 per family. Sunday, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Irvine

December 10: Wonderful winter surprises await in a show full of magic, comedy and world famous illusions designed to enchant the entire family. Illusionist Ryne Strom will amaze you as he turns dreams into reality in a theatrical experience unlike anything you’ve seen before.

Sunday, 1 p.m. 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

(626) 449-9144. www.kidspacemuseum.org.

See ad on page 43.

Los Angeles Symphony Christmas Concert in Cerritos December 10: Los Angeles Symphony presents a holiday concert showcasing classic opera arias, Korean art songs, Christmas music, pieces by Handel, and more. Maestro Hyun S. Joo leads 50 musicians, a 50-member choir, and featured soloists. Sunday, 7 p.m. Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts, 12700 Center Court Drive, Cerritos. (800) 300-4345. www. cerritoscenter.com Nutcracker: The Motion Picture at the Hammer Museum December 10: Featuring sets and costumes designed by visionary author and artist Maurice Sendak, this big-screen adaptation of the Pacific Northwest Ballet’s long-running performance of The Nutcracker is a dreamy, fantastical take on the Christmas classic.

Recommended for ages 7 and up; but all ages are welcome. Feel free to take a break with infants and toddlers in the theater lobby.

Sunday, 11 a.m. Free. Parking, $6. 10899 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles. (310) 443-7000. www.hammer.ucla.edu Old-Time Christmas Festival at Rancho Los Cerritos December 10: Discover traditions of a Victorian Christmas! Make historic crafts, enjoy holiday music from a live brass band and carolers, strike the pinatas, listen to storytellers in the library, sip warm cider, get a head start on holiday shopping in the Museum Shop, and tour the adobe, lavishly decorated for the holidays. Sunday, 1-4 p.m. $5 per person. 4600 Virginia Road, Long Beach.

(562) 206-2040. www.rancholoscerritos.org Posada Navideña at the Anaheim Marketplace December 10: Watch Christmas carolers as they sing throughout the marketplace ending at the nativity set with a re-enactment of Mary and Joseph. Live festive music, plus activities for kids like face painting, jumpers, and more. Sunday, noon - 4 p.m. 1440 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim. (714) 999-0888. www.anaheimmarketplace.com lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

Queen Anne Cottage Holiday Tours at the Arboretum December 10: Stroll down memory lane and view treasures and furnishings normally seen only through the windows of the charming Victorian-era cottage at LA County Arboretum.

The dwelling, decorated in its Christmas finery, has become a Southland tradition for holiday visitors. Tours will be available throughout the day; also stop by the historic Coach Barn of the Santa Anita Depot. Sunday, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Adults, $5; kids (12 and under), $3, in addition to arboretum admission. 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia. www.arboretum.org

Here Comes Santa at the Orange Library Taft Branch December 11: Kids of all ages can meet the big guy himself and tell him their wishes.

Monday, 5-6:30 p.m. Free. Orange Library and History Center, 740 E. Taft Ave., Orange.

(714) 288-2430. www.cityoforange.org

Santa and the Polar Express in Lomita December 10: Visit with Santa and enjoy a special reading of The Polar Express at the Lomita Railroad Museum. Bring the entire family—there will be lots of activities for the kids and a free photo with Santa! Sunday, noon - 4 p.m. $15 per family (up to 6). 2137 W. 250th St., Lomita. (310) 326-6255. www.lomita-rr.org

• Holiday Fun with Literacy Workshop at Pretend City December 12: Join Pretend City as Linda Clinard Ph.D. leads a fun and engaging holiday workshop that helps families incorporate literacy into their everyday lives! This workshop will help your child improve their reading, writing, and literacy skills as you learn together side-by-side. Register prior to December 5 to be entered to win fun literacy prizes such as books and other learning materials! Tuesday, 3:30-5 p.m. $5 per family; reservation required. 29 Hubble, Irvine.

(949) 428-3900. www.pretendcity.org. See ad on page 6.

The Messiah in Anaheim December 10: A holiday concert featuring G.F. Handel’s Messiah along with seasonal favorites. Sunday, 6 p.m. $20. Anaheim Center for the Performing Arts at Servite, 1952 West La Palma Ave., Anaheim. (714) 5196370. www.focmusic.org

Menorah Lighting in Newport Beach December 12: Join the OC’s largest Menorah Lighting ceremony with singing and festive traditions. Tuesday, 5:30 p.m. Free.

Atrium Garden Courtyard, 401 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach. (949) 721-2000. www.shopfashionisland.com

lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

Tickets Only $14-24 Make This Your Holiday Tradition

December 9-23

Thurs, Fri and Sat at 8pm Sunday at 2pm (562) 494-1014 • lbplayhouse.org 5021 E. Anaheim St., Long Beach

kidsguide holiday guide 2017 39

Cocoa with Santa at Rancho Los Cerritos December 12, 15 and 16: Enjoy cocoa and treats, make holiday crafts, and meet Santa himself. Tuesday and Friday, 4 p.m. Saturday, 11 a.m. $15 per person, includes a photo with Santa. Reservations required. 4600 Virginia Road, Long Beach. (562) 206-2040. www. rancholoscerritos.org • Hooray for Chanukah at Pretend City December 12-20: Celebrate Chanukah at Pretend City. Your child will love these rich and diverse activities about the Chanukah miracle and the importance of many of the traditions of the holiday. Have fun learning about this wonderful holiday through games, finger play rhymes, art projects and activities. Daily, visit their website for schedule. Free with admission; reservation not required. 29 Hubble, Irvine. (949) 428-3900. www.pretendcity.org.

See ad on page 6.

• Christmas Countdown at Pretend City December 12-23: Its time to begin the 12 days of Christmas Countdown! The weeks that lead up to Christmas are an exciting and magical time for young children. The wait for Christmas day can seem almost endless.

These activities will help to channel your young child’s anticipation into simple activities that celebrate the holiday. Visit their website for daily schedule. Free with admission; no reservation required. 29 Hubble, Irvine. (949) 428-3900. www.pretendcity.org.

See ad on page 6.

Geminid Meteor Shower December 13: Tonight is likely the peak night of the 2017 Geminid meteor shower, though under the light of the full moon. Watch from late Wednesday evening until dawn Thursday. Despite the full moon shining from dusk till dawn, you might see some bright Gemi-

Ice Skating Outdoor • Snow Los Angeles at Elysian Park and San Diego Through December 30: See “Snow Days” for details.

• Outdoor Ice Rink at Irvine Spectrum Center Through January 7: The festive outdoor Holiday Ice Rink returns to Giant Wheel Court at Irvine Spectrum Center. Daily, starting at 3 p.m. Open skate sessions offered. Skate sessions are 90-minutes long, adults and kids with skate rental, $20; without skate rental, $18; toddlers, $16 (double-blade skates are included, 8T-3T). Helmets are optional but recommended and provided free of charge. Season passes $199 (includes skate rental). Ice scooter rental, $10 (subject to availability and management’s discretion). Note: Open skate available Monday - Friday, excluding extended session and holidays. Find open session times and single sessions schedule on their website. 670 Spectrum Center Drive, Irvine. (949) 748-8280. www. shopirvinespectrumcenter.com. See ad on page 28.

Outdoor Ice Rink at The Pike Outlets in Long Beach Through January 8: Sponsored by the Los Angeles Kings, enjoy a real ice rink at The Pike Outlets this holiday season! Through December 15, Monday - Friday, 5-8 p.m. and 8:30-10:30 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 4-7 p.m. and 7:30-10:30 p.m. December 16 - January 8, 4-7 p.m. and 7:30-10:30 p.m. Adults, $16;

kids, $15. 95 S. Pine Ave., Long Beach. (562) 4328325. www.lakingsholidayice.com Outdoor Ice Skating in Santa Monica Through January 15: Downtown Santa Monica brings a little ice to the beachside community with ICE. Monday - Thursday, 2-10 p.m.; Friday, 2 p.m. - midnight; Saturday, 10 a.m. - midnight; and Sunday, 10 a.m.- 10 p.m. $15, includes skate rental. The ice rink will operate if it rains, but will close should conditions become dangerous to skaters or staff. All ticket sales are final and there are no refunds on purchased tickets due to rain or other weather-related circumstances or said conditions’ impact on the skating surface or overall experience. 1324 5th St., Santa Monica. (310) 260-1199. www.downtownsm.com/ice Outdoor Ice Skating at Pershing Square Through January 15: Join a winter wonderland with a host of free community and special events.

Daily, skating sessions vary, visit their website for times. General admission: $9 per person; skate or hockey skate rental, $4; skate helper, $6. Group rates and private party options are available. 532 South Olive St., Los Angeles. (213) 624-4289. www.holidayicerinkdowntownla.com • Outdoor Ice Skating Rink in Tustin November 24 - January 15: Bring your family and friends this holiday season to experience the new District Freeze Ice Rink at The District at Tustin Legacy. As the largest outdoor ice-skating rink in

nid meteors flying about. www.tinyurl.com/ GeminidMeteorShower2017 Here Comes Santa Claus in Orange December 13: Kids of all ages can meet the big guy himself and tell him their wishes. Monday, 5-6:30 p.m. Free. El Modena Branch Library, 380 S. Hewes St., Orange.

(714) 288-2451. www.cityoforange.org Winter Craft-o-Rama in Balboa December 13: Kids (K-4th grade) welcome the winter holiday season with sparkly crafty fun. Wednesday, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Balboa Library, 100 E. Balboa Blvd., Balboa. www. newportbeachlibrary.org Santa’s Workshops with Fashion Camp December 13, 15, and 17: Kids (7+) join Fashionable Friday and create and design their own Santa’s Workshop! Times vary, visit

Orange County, the District Freeze features real ice, night session lighting, music and more. Open daily, visit website for skating schedule. $19, includes skate rental. $16, bring your own skates. The District at Tustin, 2437 Park Ave. (714) 259-9090. www.thedistricttl.com. See ad on page 19.

CHILL at the Queen Mary in Long Beach December 13 - January 7: 38,000-square-foot ice adventure park featuring ice skating on an ice track, ice bumper cars, a zip line, a two-story, 100-footlong ice tubing slide and much more. Open daily.

1126 Queens Hwy., Long Beach. (877) 342-0738 www.queenmary.com.

Outdoor Ice Skating in Downtown Burbank December 14 - January 7: Steps away from hundreds of shops and restaurants decked out for the holiday season. Sunday - Thursday, 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. - 11:30 p.m.

General admission, $10; skate rentals; $5; and Bobby the Seal rentals, $6. Downtown Burbank, Third St. and Orange Grove. www.dtnbur.com Special events: December 14: Opening day special.

Every Saturday: Learn-to-Skate classes, kids (5-15), 9-9:25 a.m.; adults, 9:25-9:50 a.m. $25, includes lesson, skate rental, and skate session at 10 a.m.

Outdoor Ice Skating in Temecula December 15 - January 8: Start practicing those double axels and salchows, as Temecula On Ice returns for the holiday season! You’ll find a stateof-the-art ice rink, comfortable rental skates, the always popular Bobby skating aid and its own radio station playing the best ice skating music in Temecula. Sunday - Thursday, 10 a.m. - 9:30 p.m.; and Friday - Saturday, 10 a.m. - 11 p.m. Open Christmas Day, noon - 9:30 p.m. and New Year’s Eve, 10 p.m. - 12:30 a.m. Admission, $10; skate rental,

website for details. $49. 2477 Park Ave., Tustin. www.tustin.createdesignsew.com Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade and Marina Park Family Fun Night December 13-17: Join over a million viewers to watch beautifully decorated yachts, boats, kayaks and canoes sail along Newport Harbor in the 110th Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade. View elaborate Christmas light displays of bayfront estates with their Ring-Of-Lights competition as hundreds of decorated ships of all sizes compete for top awards in over a half dozen categories.

Monday - Friday, 6:15-9 p.m. Enjoy Marina Park Family Fun Night on December 15, an event for all ages, with lots of activities including crafts for kids, photos with Santa, and food. Finish off the evening at one of the most prestigious locations to watch the annual Christmas Boat Parade, the Marina

$6; Bobby skating aid, $6; NYE Skate Special, $20.

Town Square Park, 41902 Main St., Temecula.

(951) 297-9423. www.temeculaca.gov Outdoor Ice Skating LA Kings Holiday Ice at Nokia Plaza December 17 - January 29: The annual LA Kings Holiday Ice brings outdoor ice skating to Nokia Plaza L.A. LIVE in Downtown LA. December 17 January 8: Monday - Sunday, 3-7 p.m. and 7:309:30 p.m., and 10 p.m. - midnight. January 9-12, closed. January 13-29: Monday - Sunday, 5:3010:30 p.m. Admission, $14-18. VIP pass, $35. 800 W. Olympic Blvd., Los Angeles. (866) 548-3452. www.lakingsholidayice.com Outdoor Ice Skating in Woodland Hills December 19 - January 29: Features more than 7,000 square feet of real ice. Open seven days a week for public skating, parties, and learn-to-skate classes. Daily, find skate sessions on their website.

Admission, $17; kids (6 and under), $13. VIP, $35.

6100 Topanga Canyon Blvd., Woodland Hills. (818) 296-5887. www.lakingsholidayice.com

Indoor • East West Ice Palace 11446 Artesia Blvd., Artesia (562) 809-6200 www.eastwesticepalace.com Ice rink offers public skating, skating classes for kids (3+) and adults, freestyle sessions, in-house hockey, hockey classes, youth travel hockey league, adult hockey league, stick time and broomball.

Competitive synchronized skating teams and classes also available. A collection of Michelle Kwan

Park Community Center, from 5:30-8 p.m.

Adults, $25 and kids, $15. 1600 W. Balboa Blvd. It is highly recommended to carpool and/or arrive early to avoid traffic delays, find parking and locate a viewing area. www.christmasparadeboats.com Viewing of the Newport Beach Boat Parade at Newport Sea Base December 13-17: Join the Sea Base on their lawn for a view of the 110th annual Newport Beach Boat Parade. Wednesday - Sunday, opens at 6:45 p.m.; parade starts passing in front of the Sea Base around 8:30 p.m.

Adults, $12; kids (2-15), $10. Snacks and refreshments for purchase. Note: onsite parking available only with a prepaid parking pass. 1931 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach.

(949) 642-5031. www.newportseabase. webconnex.com

memorabilia is available in the gallery. Fitness center is open to the public and offers group exercise classes. Party packages also available. Check website for details on ice schedule and events. See ad on page 11.

• The Rinks Anaheim ICE (714) 535-RINK Huntington Beach Inline (714) 901-2629 Irvine Inline (949) 559-9949 Lakewood ICE (562) 429-1805 Westminster ICE (714) 248-9611 Yorba Linda ICE (714) 692-8776 www.TheRinks.com Guests of all ages enjoy skating at The Rinks. With several daily public skating sessions, skate rentals and full-service snack bars, they offer the coolest fun for you and your friends! Plus, The Rinks offer a variety of learn-to-skate and hockey programs for all ages and skill levels, plus camps. The Huntington Beach location also offers Top Flight Street Hockey for those with special needs. For skating session times, prices and class information, visit them online or call. Locations: 300 W. Lincoln Ave., Anaheim; 5555 McFadden Ave., Huntington Beach; 3150 Barranca Pkwy., Irvine; 3975 Pixie Ave., Lakewood; 13071 Springdale, Westminster; and 23641 La Palma Ave., Yorba Linda. See ad with free skate rental on page 17.

More Skating Rinks Aliso Viejo Ice Palace - Ice only. Hockey. 9 Journey, Aliso Viejo. (949) 643-9648. www.avicepalace.com KHS Ice Arena - Ice only. 1000 E. Cerritos Ave., Anaheim. (714) 422 -1236. www.khsice.com

• Anaheim Ducks Holiday Toy Drive Night at The Rinks - Anaheim ICE December 14: Fans that bring new, unwrapped toys, books and games can skate for free and will also be entered to win an Anaheim Ducks prize (limit one raffle ticket per person). The Street Team will be hosting ornament decorating for kids and guests will also have the opportunity to skate alongside Wild Wing and the Power Players. Thursday, 7-9 p.m. 300 W. Lincoln Ave., Anaheim. (714) 535-RINK. www.

TheRinks.com. See ad on page 17.

• Santa Visits at Pretend City December 14: Go to Pretend City for visits with Santa. Meet jolly ol’ Saint Nick, tell him holiday wishes, and sit on his lap for a photo.

Thursday, 9-11:30 a.m. Free with admission; no reservation required. 29 Hubble, Irvine.

(949) 428-3900. www.pretendcity.org. See ad on page 6.

Lake Forest Ice Palace - Ice only. Figure skating and hockey. 25821 Atlantic Ocean Drive, Lake Forest.

(949) 305-9658. www.lficepalace.com Paramount Iceland - Ice only. Skating school, freestyle and hockey. 8041 Jackson St., Paramount. (562) 633-1171. www.paramounticeland.com

The Broadway Princess Party at Segerstrom Center for the Arts December 14-16: The princesses are throwing a ball, and you’re invited! Where else might a little mermaid get to duet with a beautiful bookworm? Or might an ice queen drink tea alongside a princess with a lost glass slipper? Get your ball gown out of the closet and dust off that tiara for the Broadway Princess Party. The all-star cast will sing the most beloved princess songs of stage and screen, reminiscing about their favorite fairytales and most cherished characters. Thursday - Saturday, 7:30 p.m. $89+. Samueli Theater, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa. (714) 5562787. www.scfta.org Miracle On 34th Street Live at Pasadena Playhouse December 14-23: When a department store Santa claims he’s the real thing, it takes him all the way to the supreme court. Watch what happens as this classic story finds new life on stage in a live performance of the original 1940s radio broadcast, complete with scripts in hand, a live foley artist (creating all the sounds!), a possible sing-along, and a twinkle of holiday cheer. Recommended for ages 6+, and able to sit for a little over an hour. $25+.

Member and group discounts available. See website for performance times. 39 S. El Molino Ave., Pasadena. (626) 356-7529. www. pasadenaplayhouse.org Snoopy House in Costa Mesa December 14-23: Since 1966, The Snoopy House features holiday scenes and music for nightly viewing. Daily, 5:30-9 p.m. Santa will visit nightly from 7-9 p.m. City Hall, 77 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa. (714) 754-5300. www. costamesaca.gov • Cocoa Party with Santa at My Gym Long Beach December 15: Kids 13 and younger and their family join My Gym for a Cocoa Party with Santa with pictures, cocoa and cookies, cookie decorating, snow sled rides, face painting, games, puppet shows, and more. Friday, time slots will run in 50 minute increments (4:105, 5:10-6, 6:10-7, and 7:10-8 p.m.). Call for prices and details. 3287 Industry Drive. (562) 986-0066. www.mygym.com/longbeach. See ad on page 47.

Family Art Night at the Norton Simon Museum December 15: Using black paper and a glowin-the-dark sticker sheet, create a scene of what you would like to do this winter. Then, watch your scene glow under the night sky of the Sculpture Garden. Designed for families with kids ages 4-10. Friday, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Included with admission. Meet at the entrance 42 kidsguide holiday guide 2017

gallery. 411 Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. (626) 449-6840. www.nortonsimon.org Free Holiday Movie Screening on the USS Iowa December 15: Bundle up and join a free evening of fun! Enjoy the holidays with a “Holiday Movie under the Guns” presentation of Frozen.

Screened outdoors in front of the historic ship.

Friday, 6 p.m. Free. Limited seating is available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Guests are encouraged to dress appropriately, bring light jackets, blankets and outdoor chairs.

Concessions will be available, no coolers or outside food and beverages allowed. 250 S. Harbor Blvd., San Pedro. (877) 446-9261. www.pacificbattleship.com • Holiday Cookie Exchange with Lil’ Chefs December 15: What better way for kids (5+) to prepare for the holidays than for Lil’ Chef to teach them how to bake some incredible sweet treats, with extras to send home in a decorated box. Friday, 6-8 p.m. $49; $40 per sibling. Call or visit their website to register. 15435 Jeffery Road, #132, Irvine. (949) 679-8390. www.lilchefschool.com. See ad on page 18.

Musical Chanukah Shabbat Dinner at the Alpert JCC December 15: Join community synagogues for a musical extravaganza along with Shabbat blessings and a Chanukah celebration. This will be a family-oriented Shabbat, engaging families with young children with performances by Mostly Kosher and the Temple Israel Youth Choir. Friday, 6 p.m. Family four-pack, $36; adults, $10; kids, $8. 3801 East Willow St., Long Beach. (562) 426-7601. www.alpertjcc.org Huntington Harbor Cruise of Lights December 15-18 and 21-23: In it’s 55th year, the narrated cruise sails through the waterways of Huntington Harbour to see the holiday lighted homes and decorations. Days and times vary.

Adults, $19; kids (2-12), $12. Extended tour: adults, $29; kids, (2-12), $23. Land and sea option also available. Huntington Beach. (714) 840-7542. www.cruiseoflights.org Breakfast with Santa in Huntington Beach December 16: Put on your best holiday gear and bring the family to enjoy festivities including a pancake breakfast, holiday music, arts and crafts, and a picture with Santa. Saturday, 8:30-10:30 a.m. $10 per person; registration required, space is limited. Murdy Community Center, 7000 Norma Drive, Huntington Beach.

(714) 960-8884. www.huntingtonbeachca.gov

Christmas at the OC Zoo December 16: Join holiday fun at the OC Zoo with visits with Santa, story time with Mrs. Claus, holiday kids crafts, photo area, and games. Plus, see the zoo animals receive treatfilled “gifts” and treats hidden inside Christmas trees throughout the day! Saturday, 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. Included with zoo admission; $2 per person; parking, $5. 1 Irvine Park Road, Orange. www.ocparks.com/events Elf at Saban Theatre December 16: After inadvertently wreaking havoc on the elf community due to his ungainly size, a man (Will Ferrell) raised as an elf at the North Pole is sent to the U.S. in search of his true identity. Get your seasonal cheer on as you find strolling Christmas carolers and holiday food galore inside the theater, or next door, at Grand Central Market’s cornucopia of sweet and savory options.

Saturday, doors open at 6 p.m., movie at 8 p.m. $28+. 8440 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles. www.streetfoodcinema.com • Kids Create a Winter Wreath at Sherman Library and Gardens December 16: Children will create a wreath filled with berries, carnations, a red faux bird and sprinkled with snow. Saturday, 9:30 am.

Friends, $30; non-members, $35; second child, $25. 2647 E. Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar. (949) 673-2261. www.slgardens.org.

Lakeshore Learning’s Free Saturday Workshops December 16: Kids (3+) make a winter headband. Saturday, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. No reservations necessary. Carson, (310) 537-4778; Fountain Valley, (714) 963-8255; and Laguna Hills, (949) 462-9353. www.lakeshorelearning.com • Las Posadas Fiesta at Pretend City December 16: Go to Pretend City with your family to celebrate the first day of this nine-day Mexican Christmas celebration. Through special activities and events, your children will have fun learning about the history of this celebration.

Saturday, all day. Free with admission; no reservation required. 29 Hubble, Irvine. (949) 4283900. www.pretendcity.org. See ad on page 6.

Ocean in Art Gyotaku at Cabrillo Marine Aquarium December 16: Create one-of-a-kind gifts as you practice the art of Gyotaku fish printing.

Fee includes paint and paper—please bring fabric or clothes to print on during this studio workshop. Saturday, 9:30 a.m. - noon. $18; preregistration required by December 8. Walkins cannot be accommodated. 3720 Stephen M. White Drive, San Pedro. (310) 548-7562. www.cabrillomarineaquarium.org lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

Parade of 1,000 Lights in Long Beach December 16: Watch dozens of yachts decked out with holiday lights cruise along the coast.

With the best viewing points at Shoreline Village, the parade will wind from Shoreline Marina to Rainbow Harbor, past Pine Ave. Pier and alongside the Queen Mary. Saturday, 5:30 p.m.

Free. www.shorelineyachtclub.com Santa Run 5/10K and Kids’ Fun Run in Irvine December 16: Wear your Santa hat and holiday costume to Orange County’s best holiday run.

It’s stroller-friendly! Medals are given to the top three finishers by age group, plus prizes for the best running Santa, best non-Santa holiday costume and best kids’ holiday costume.

Saturday, races start at 8 a.m., kids half-mile fun run, 10 a.m. $12-45. Free shuttles from Beckman High School. Hicks Canyon Elementary School, 3817 Viewpark Ave., Irvine. www. renegaderaceseries.com/santa-run Star Party at Griffith Observatory December 16: Look through a large variety of professional and home-built telescopes to view the sun, planets, the moon and deep sky objects, like double-stars, star clusters, and nebulae. The observatory’s Zeiss 12-inch refractor and computer controlled 11-inch lawn telescopes are set up throughout the event. Saturday, 2-9:45 p.m.

Free. 2800 E. Observatory Road, Los Angeles.

(213) 473-0800. www.griffithobservatory.org • Star Wars Family Fun Night at Columbia Memorial Space Center December 16: In a galaxy not too far away, the Columbia Memorial Space Center (CMSC) hosts its Star Wars-themed Family Fun Night! Wookies, Storm Troopers, Droids, Rebel Fighters, Ewoks, Padawans, and Jedi of all generations unite at the CMSC for fun space-related activities, games and demonstrations. At this special evening event, all Star Wars fans are invited to gather for an inter-galactic experience of learnthrough-play, Jedi style. The CMSC will provide an out-of-this-world adventure the whole family can enjoy. They hope the force brings you to the CMSC for this exciting event. Come or do not, there is no try. Saturday, 6:30-9:30 p.m.

Admission, $5; CMSC members, free. 12400 Columbia Way, Downey. (562) 231-1200. www. columbiaspacescience.org. See ad on page 10.

5K Run/Walk & Kids Fun Run Benefitting St. Hedwig School Beachfront Walk in Long Beach.

Participants receive a T-shirt and medal!

Bring the whole family!

Saturday, January 20 7 a.m. Registration 8 a.m. 5K Run/Walk 9 a.m. Kids Fun Run

Starlight Train Ride in Torrance December 16: Join Southern California Live Steamers for the annual Starlight Train Ride.

Saturday, 5-8 p.m. Call for more information.

2290 Washington Ave, Torrance. (310) 3280236. www.southerncalifornialivesteamers.org Trombone Christmas at Anaheim GardenWalk December 16: Head to Anaheim GardenWalk as lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

Register online @ www.sthedwigk8.org

Adults, $30 Kids (16 and under), $15 kidsguide holiday guide 2017 43

Holiday Performances Tinseltown Christmas in Santa Ana November 24 - December 10: Are you ready for a new version of a Christmas ghost who helps someone find the joy of Christmas? Enter the lovable spirits of Tinseltown Christmas, the all new musical comedy. It’s December 24, but Monica Ness is already sick of anything candy-striped or miseltoed. Suddenly, she is visited by the ghosts of Jimmy Stewart, Judy Garland, Bing Crosby and Natalie Wood, who have all traveled back to the land of the living to bring Monica a little Yuletide cheer, Hollywood-style. However, the ghosts’ plan quickly goes awry, leading to a hilarious and very musical adventure. Visit website for dates, times, and cost.

Attic Community Theater, 2834 S. Fairview Ave., Santa Ana. (714) 856-0571. www.ocact.com It’s a Wonderful Life Radio Show in Fullerton November 24 - December 17: The beloved American classic comes to captivating life as a live 1940’s radio broadcast. With the help of an ensemble that brings a few dozen characters to the stage, the story of idealistic George Bailey unfolds as he considers ending his life one fateful Christmas Eve. Friday and Saturday, 8 p.m.; and Sunday, 2 p.m. Additional shows, December 9, 10 and 16. Stages Theater, 400 E. Commonwealth Ave, Fullerton. (714) 525-4484. www.stagesoc.org The Holiday Gem in Garden Grove November 24 - December 17: Be a part of a new tradition and ring in the holidays at The Gem Theatre with a fun-for-the-whole-family holiday review!

Backed by live musicians, stunning costumes and a whimsical set, Santa Claus, his tap dancing elves and a cast of talented performers close out the season in true holiday fashion! Days and times vary, visit their website for details. $18-26. The Gem Theater, 12852 Main St., Garden Grove. (714) 741-9550. www.onemoreproductions.com • A Christmas Carol in Costa Mesa November 24 - December 24: Nineteenth-century London comes to life when your family joins the SCR family for the holidays. Recapture the spirit of an old-fashioned Christmas with this timeless Dickens classic and all your favorite characters—Tiny Tim and the Cratchit family, the Fezziwigs, the Ghosts of Christmas past, present and yet-to-come—and, as always, everyone’s favorite curmudgeon, Ebenezer Scrooge. Ages 6+; no children under age six will be admitted; regardless of age, everyone must have a ticket, sit in a seat and be able to sit quietly through the performance. Segerstrom Stage. Check website for performance times and ticket prices. South Coast Repertory, 655 Town Center Drive. (714) 708-5555. www.scr.org. See ad on page 39.

A Christmas Carol in Temecula November 30 - December 10: Bring the family to watch the holiday classic. Various dates and times, check website for details. $12. Temecula Theater, 42051 Main St., Temecula. (866) 6538696. www.temeculaca.gov/temeculatheater A Christmas Carol in Pasadena December 1-23: Join everybody’s favorite holiday humbug, Ebenezer Scrooge, on a fantastical journey that celebrates the spirit of the season. Bring the whole family and revel in this holiday tradition.

Days and times vary. $25-45. A Noise Within Theater, 3352 Foothill Blvd., Pasadena. (626) 3563100. www.anoisewithin.org A Christmas with Scrooge in Irvine December 1-30: Join the Musical Theatre Village for a production of this Christmas classic. Friday, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, 2 and 7:30 p.m.; and Sunday, 2 p.m. Adults, $16; kids, $14 (add $3 for opening and closing gala nights). Musical Theatre Village, 36-C Mauchly, Irvine. (949) 753-1996. www.musicaltheatrevillage.net/index.php Merry-Achi Christmas in Cerritos December 2: Merry-Achi Christmas returns with a colorful and traditional Mexican holiday celebration full of seasonal songs, dance and festive merriment.

Headlining the exciting extravaganza is the nation’s premier Sol de Mexico de Jose Hernandez Mariachi, which is joined by America’s first all-female Mariachi, Reyna de Los Angeles, and the captivating Grandeza Mexicana Ballet Folklorico company.

Saturday, 7 p.m. $35-86. Cerritos Performing Arts Center, 12700 Center Court Drive. (562) 467-8819. www.cerritoscenter.com Festival of Carols at Walt Disney Concert Hall December 2 and 9: Ring in the holidays at Walt Disney Concert Hall with your favorite carols and songs of the season sung to perfection by the Los Angeles Master Chorale. Festival of Carols has something for everyone—traditional favorites, new arrangements and undiscovered gems. Santa will be available to meet with kids of all ages after the performance. But don’t forget, he knows if you’ve been naughty or nice! Saturday, 2 p.m. $39-129.

111 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. (213) 972-7282. www.lamasterchorale.org/festival-of-carols Christmas in the Air in Temecula December 2-3: Enjoy this holiday favorite as Southwest Women’s Chorus presents Christmas In The Air! Enjoy some familiar tunes, fun new ones, and beautiful classical pieces as well. These singalongs will get you in the holiday mood. Saturday, 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, 2 p.m. $11-18. Temecula

Theater, 42051 Main St. (866) 653-8696. www. temeculaca.gov/temeculatheater Miracle on 34th Street in Rancho Cucamonga December 2-10: When Kris Kringle, a nice, old man from a retirement home gets a job working as a Christmas Santa at Macy’s, his honest and generous spirit unleashes waves of good will throughout New York City and a hint of magic in the heart of a very practical little girl. For ages 8+. $16+. Saturday, 2 and 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, 2 p.m.

Lewis Family Playhouse, 12505 Cultural Center Drive. www.lewisfamilyplayhouse.com Christmas Fantasia at Segerstrom December 5: Kick off your holiday season in style!

Enjoy favorite carols and breathtaking masterpieces performed by Vanguard University’s 200-member choirs and orchestra in the elegance and acoustical perfection of Segerstrom Concert Hall. Awe-inspiring performances of carols and holiday favorites make this family-friendly night unforgettable. Tuesday, 8 p.m. Tickets start at $25. 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa. (714) 556-2787. www.scfta.org • The Young Americans Present The Magic of Christmas in La Mirada December 7-17: In this special holiday production The Young Americans will take you on a ride to a magical place. Christmas in the northern mountains, snow, and a small town. Visit website for times. $29-60. La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts, 14900 La Mirada Blvd. (562) 944-9801. www.lamiradatheatre.com Aladdin and His Winter Wish at the Laguna Playhouse December 7-31: American Panto returns for the third year to Laguna Playhouse in Aladdin and His Winter Wish. The classic fairytale is set to modern music, complete with dancing, humor, magic and audience participation. It’s the best new holiday tradition in town! Days and times vary, visit their website for details and ticket purchase. 606 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach. (949) 497-2787. www.lagunaplayhouse.com Christmas Melodrama and Ice Cream Social at OCC December 8-10 and 15-17: The Orange Coast College Drama Department presents an old-fashioned Christmas melodrama and ice cream social. Boo the villain, cheer the hero and enjoy an ice cream treat during this fun family sing-along. Friday, 7 p.m.; Saturday, 2:30 and 7 p.m.; and Sunday, 2:30 p.m. $79. Orange Coast College Drama Lab Theatre, 2701 Fairview Road, Costa Mesa. (714) 432-5880. www. orangecoastcollege.edu

Colors of Christmas in Cerritos December 9: The lively annual tradition returns with Peabo Bryson in an all-star lineup that includes Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis, Jr., American Idol champ Ruben Studdard, and Grammy winner Jody Watley delivering holiday tunes and seasonal cheer.

Saturday, 8 p.m. $55-100. Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts, 12700 Center Court Drive. (562) 467-8819. www.cerritoscenter.com • A Christmas Carol in Long Beach December 9-23: For nearly 170 years, Bob Cratchit, Tiny Tim, Ebenezer Scrooge and the ghosts of Christmas past, present and future have reminded us that even the most miserly can find redemption in kindness and generosity toward others. This year, the Long Beach Playhouse brings Dickens’ story to life in its Mainstage Theater. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, 8 p.m.; and Sundays, 2 p.m. Tickets, $14-24. www.lbplayhouse.org. See ad on page 39.

A Christmas Carol at Calvary Chapel of the Harbour December 11-17: Join the ACTS Drama group for a free performance of this holiday classic. Monday, Tuesday and Friday, 7 p.m.; Sunday, 3 and 7 p.m.

Free. 16450 Pacific Coast Hwy., Ste. 100, Huntington Beach. (562) 592-1800. www.ccoth.com Miracle On 34th Street Live at Pasadena Playhouse December 14-23: See page 42 for details.

Disney on Ice Follow Your Heart in Anaheim December 14 - January 7: Follow your heart straight to adventure with Disney On Ice! The ice skating extravaganza features the beloved stories and characters from the smash hit animated movies Finding Dory and Inside Out for the first time in a live production.

See Cinderella, Rapunzel, Tiana and the Disney Princesses make their dreams come true through their virtues of bravery, kindness and perseverance. And celebrate true friendship with Buzz Lightyear, Woody and the Toy Story gang. Los Angeles, Staples Center, December 14-17; Anaheim, Honda Center, December 20-24; Long Beach Arena, December 27 - January 1; and Ontario, Citizen’s Bank Arena, January 3-7. Tickets start at $25. www.disneyonice.com Holiday Candlelight Concert with the Pasadena Symphony December 16: Top off the holiday season in the architecturally exquisite and acoustically sonorous All Saints Church, Pasadena’s equivalent of a classic European cathedral. An array of choruses highlight this festive concert featuring the most popular and cherished holiday melodies performed by candlelight an aural respite that is sure to summon the spirit of the season. Saturday, 4 and 7 p.m. $20+. All Saints Church, 132 N. Euclid Ave., Pasadena. (626) 7937172. www.pasadenasymphony-pops.org Holiday Sing-Along with the LA Phil December 16: Accompanied by Walt Disney Concert

Hall’s huge pipe organ, a choir and a jazz combo, you’ll enjoy singing numerous popular songs of the season. A jolly good time for the entire family! Saturday, 11:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. $33+. Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave, Los Angeles. (323) 850-2000. www.laphil.com Holiday Pops Spectacular at the Warner Grand Theatre December 16: Celebrate the holiday season with the Golden State Pops Orchestra and Chorale for a festive performance of timeless holiday film, music and traditional favorites. Saturday, 8 p.m. $28.50-60.

478 W. 6th St., San Pedro. (310) 548-2493. www. grandvision.org Tis the Season in Costa Mesa December 17-18: Resounding brass and organ, angelic children’s voices, and the splendid singers of the Pacific Chorale bring seasonal classics and popular favorites to life in one of Orange County’s best-loved holiday traditions. Sunday, 5:30 p.m. and Monday, 7 p.m. Tickets start at $29. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa. (714) 556-2787. www.scfta.org Fiesta Navidad at Segerstrom December 21: The Grammy Award-winning Mariachi Los Camperos de Nati Cano present a festive and joyous holiday performance that celebrates and honors the unique cultural traditions of Mexico. This worldrenowned band will bring a re-enactment of Joseph and Mary’s sojourn to Bethlehem in La Posada, plus upbeat music and traditional ballads, dancing and the always ebullient sing-along of holiday favorites. Thursday, 8 p.m.

Tickets start at $29. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa. (714) 556-2121. www.scfta.org A Christmas Carol Radio Show in Long Beach December 21-23: The Long Beach Shakespeare Company presents the classic 1939 radio edition of “A Christmas Carol.” Thursday and Friday, 8 p.m.; and Saturday, 2 and 8 p.m. $12.50. Long Beach Shakespeare Company, 4250 Atlantic Ave., Long Beach. (562) 997-1494. www.lbshakespeare.org

58th Annual Free LA County Holiday Celebration December 24: Bring the whole family to Los Angeles’ biggest, Emmy Award-winning holiday show. Choirs, music ensembles and dance companies from the many neighborhoods and cultures of L.A. celebrate the season during this free three-hour extravaganza, a decades-old tradition, beloved by Angelenos. The entire three hours will also be broadcast live on local public television. Sunday, 3-6 p.m. Free; no reservations or tickets to the show; first come, first seated.

Dorothy Chandler Pavilion at The Music Center, 135 N. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. (213) 972-3099. www. musiccenter.org/holidaycelebration

over 400 trombone players are expected to congregate to break the current Guinness World Record of 369 trombone players in a single concert.

The event will also feature the Billy Beez mascot, a holiday photo booth, and performances by local school groups. Saturday, 1-2 p.m. Free. 400 W. Disney Way, Anaheim. (714) 635-7410. www. anaheimgardenwalk.com Artic Lights at the Moorpark College Teaching Zoo December 16-17: The zoo will be decorated from top to bottom with sparkles and lights.

Get that last-minute gift shopping done at the merchandise table and bake sale while the kids play in real snow, drink hot chocolate, and enjoy winter-themed crafts and games. Saturday - Sunday, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Adults, $8; kids (3-12), $6. Bring in a string of working LED lights and receive a free adult admission for that day. For an extra $7 per person, guests can tour the back areas and interact with some of the animals. 7075 Campus Road, Moorpark. (805) 378-1441. www.zoo.moorparkcollege.edu • Winter Wonderfest at Discovery Cube OC and LA Opening weekend, December 16-17; open daily, December 22 - January 7: See “Snow Days” for details.

First Annual Long Beach Youth Chorus Holiday Concert December 17: Usher in the season with the Long Beach Youth Chorus’ debut holiday concert. Celebrating the musical talent among young people from diverse backgrounds in a mutually supportive environment, the LBYC will feature seasonal favorites at this first-annual performance. Sunday, 6:30 p.m. Free-will donation. Grace First Presbyterian Church, 3955 Studebaker Road, Long Beach. (562) 4203393. www.longbeachyouthchorus.org Hanukkah Celebration at Farmers Market LA December 17: Celebrate Hanukah with the lighting of a giant menorah, music, arts and crafts and more! Sunday, 2:30 p.m. Free.

3rd St. and Fairfax Ave., Los Angeles. www. farmersmarketla.com Holiday Festival at the Muckenthaler December 17: The Muckenthaler’s annual Holiday Festival features home and gallery tours, performances, an arts and crafts fair, and delicious food vendors. The family-friendly event also provides free art workshops for kids, a children’s play area, and a special appearance by Santa Claus. Sunday, noon - 4 p.m. Free. 1201 W. Malvern Ave., Fullerton. (714) 738-6595. www.themuck.org 46 kidsguide holiday guide 2017

International Day with the Critters at Santa Ana Zoo December 17: Festive decorations, international stations, crafts, animals and entertainment. Saturday, noon - 3 p.m. Included with admission. 1801 Chestnut Ave., Santa Ana. (714) 953-8555. www.santaanazoo.org LA International Children’s Film Festival December 17: The 13th annual festival will present full-length and short animated, live action and documentary films from around the world, for toddlers to teens. Filmmakers and actors will be present for question-and-answer sessions after each screening. Sunday,10:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. Free. Los Angeles County Museum of Art. www.lacma.org Live Nativity Play and International Celebration at Old World December 17: Each year, Old World Village plays host to the International Celebration of Christmas, a celebration that brings together a diverse group of churches, singers and dancers for a celebration that highlights the true meaning of the holiday season. All proceeds and donations from the event benefit local charities. Sunday, 6 p.m. 7561 Center Ave., Huntington Beach. (714) 895-8020. www.oldworld.ws/blog • Menorah Lighting Ceremony at the Irvine Spectrum December 17: Join the Irvine Spectrum to celebrate Hanukkah with music and festive traditions at the annual Menorah Lighting, hosted by the Chabad of Irvine. Sunday, 3 p.m. Edwards Court. (949) 753-5180. www. shopirvinespectrumcenter.com. See ad on page 28.

Winter Crafts in Newport Beach December 19: Kids (3-8) can drop in for some cool winter crafting fun. Children must be accompanied by an adult. No registration required.

First come, first served, limited by room capacity.

Tuesday, 4-5 p.m. Free. Newport Beach Mariners Library, 1300 Irvine Ave., Newport Beach. www.newportbeachlibrary.org Fly with Santa at Bowers Kidseum in Santa Ana December 19-22: The Reindeer are busy napping this week preparing for their big night.

Santa will roll up to Kidseum on his motorcycle at 1 p.m. Kids have the opportunity to visit with Santa’s in his red Wells Fargo Wagon and fly around the world on the Green Screen Time Machine. Tuesday - Friday, 1-2 p.m. Included with Kidseum admission. 1802 N. Main St., Santa Ana. (714) 480-1520. www.bowers.org

Cookies and Stories with Mrs. Claus at Children’s Museum at La Habra December 20: Enjoy the magic of the season!

Mrs. Claus is coming for a visit to read stories and share cookies. Visitors are encouraged to come in their jammies. Saturday, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Included in paid admission. 301 S. Euclid St., La Habra. (562) 383-4236. www.lhcm.org Christmas Festivities at Farmers Market LA December 20-24: The Original Farmers Market is decked out in Yuletide finery to welcome the season. Celebrate the holidays with music, arts and crafts, variety shows, Dickensian carolers and more. Daily. Free. 3rd and Fairfax, Los Angeles. (323) 933-9211. www.farmersmarketla.com Screening of Homeward Bound at the Skirball in LA December 21: Embark on an adventure over winter break by watching Homeward Bound. When three family pets, a playful bulldog named Chance, a sage golden retriever named Shadow, and a nervous cat named Sassy, are separated from their owners, they set out on a seemingly impossible journey across California to make their way home. Thursday, 12:30 and 2:30 p.m. Included with admission. 2701 N. Sepulveda Blvd., Los Angeles. (310) 440-4500. www.skirball.org • Winter Solstice Celebration at Pretend City December 21: Put on your warm mittens and cozy scarves. It’s officially winter! The beginning of winter is marked by the solstice, the shortest day of the year. Celebrate the winter solstice through cool activities and art projects. Thursday, visit their website for schedule. Free with admission; no reservation required. 29 Hubble, Irvine. (949) 428-3900. www.pretendcity.org.

See ad on page 6.

Tall Ships in Long Beach December 21 - January 1: Tall ships Lady Washington and Hawaiian Chieftain stop in Long Beach. Events include tours, a Battle Sail and an eight-hour sail to Dana Point. Call for details and tickets. Shoreline Aquatic Park, 200 Aquarium Way, Long Beach. (805) 477-0470. www.historicalseaport.org Lakeshore Learning’s Free Saturday Workshops December 23: Kids (3+) make an Ugly Sweater Ornament. Saturday, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. No reservations necessary. Carson, (310) 537-4778; Fountain Valley, (714) 9638255; and Laguna Hills, (949) 462-9353. www.lakeshorelearning.com • Extended Skate Sessions at East West Ice Palace December 24 - January 7: For winter break, lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

East West Ice Palace will be extending their public session hours and celebrating the holidays with festive decorations and music. Come and join in on the fun! Public session times vary by day, call or visit their website for details and schedules. 11446 Artesia Blvd., Artesia. (562) 809-6200. www.eastwesticepalace.com. See ad on page 11.

• Begin a Holiday Tradition with a Round of Golf at Golf N’ Stuff December 25: Bring family and friends for Christmas fun at Golf N’ Stuff. They offer challenging miniature golf, exciting rides including go-karts, bumper boats and a kiddie train. Plus, be sure to utilize their “North Pole Pack,” just $19 (regularly $30), offered throughout December. 10555 E. Firestone Blvd., Norwalk. (562) 868-9956. www. golfnstuff.com. See ad on page 4.

• Festival of Kwanzaa at Pretend City December 26 - January 1: Kwanzaa is here, and there are so many fun things to do! Join Pretend City each day during the Festival of Kwanzaa to “light” a candle on the Kinara.

Every day, celebrate a new Kwanzaa principle through a variety of activities, including working at the family stand, making gifts for family and friends, playing Kwanzaa games, and even having a “feast”! Daily, visit their website for schedule. Free with admission; reservation not required. 29 Hubble, Irvine. (949) 428-3900. www.pretendcity.org. See ad on page 6.

Screening of An American Tail at Skirball in LA December 28: Embark on an adventure over winter break by watching An American Tail. On route by boat from Russia to America, a young mouse named Fievel gets lost from the rest of his family, who presume, sadly, that he was cast adrift at sea. But in the bustling streets of New York City of 1885, Fievel meets an eclectic cast of characters and becomes determined to reunite with his family. Thursday, 12:30 and 2:30 p.m. Included with admission. 2701 N. Sepulveda Blvd., Los Angeles. (310) 440-4500. www.skirball.org Equestfest with the Tournament of Roses December 29: Get up close and personal with the 2018 Rose Parade equestrian units at Equestfest. Watch beautiful horses and talented riders perform drills and dances, and demonstrate trick riding and roping. Stroll through the stables, talk to riders and learn about the various tack and the many different breeds while enjoying the vendor court, displays, great music, food and drinks. Friday, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., show begins at noon. $15-40; parking, $10.

Los Angeles Equestrian Center, 480 Riverside Drive, Los Angeles. (626) 795-4171. www. tournamentofroses.com lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

WINTER CAMPS January 2 - 12:15-4:15 December 27 & January 3 - 1:15-4:45 December 28 & January 4 - 11:30-3:30 December 29 & January 5 - 1:45-5:15

Themed days • Arts & Crafts • Games Sports • Lots of Fun! Sign Up NOW!

• Parent’s Night Out and New Year’s Celebration with Lil’ Chefs December 29: Parents can enjoy a night out, while your kids (3+) enjoy making their own pizza dinner from scratch, along with edible party horns. Kids will have a pre-New Year’s Celebration, complete with hats, blowers and New Year’s Punch to drink! Friday, 5:30-9:30 p.m. $50; $30 per sibling. Children must be potty trained. 15435 Jeffery Road., #132, Irvine. (949) 679-8390. www.lilchefschool.com.

See ad on page 18.

Tournament of Roses Bandfest in Pasadena December 29-30: Bandfest features the prize-winning bands of the 2018 Rose Parade performing their field shows. Friday, 1:30 p.m.; Saturday, 9:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. $15; kids 5 and under, free. Pasadena City College football stadium, 1570 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. (626) 795-4171. www. tournamentofroses.com Dinosaur Time Trek: Shark Edition in Anaheim December 29 - January 1: At Dinosaur Time Trek, you’ll be transported through a special Time Lab

where you can observe enormous prehistoric dinosaurs and track modern-day sharks in real time.

Families can compete in the Cretaceous Challenge Zone, visit the Time Trek Theater to meet baby dinosaurs, or test their dino-knowledge in the family and individual trivia contests. $14+. Friday - Monday. Visit website for times. 800 West Katella Ave., Anaheim. www.dinosaurtimetrek.com Lakeshore Learning’s Free Saturday Workshops December 30: Kids (3+) make a My Resolution Craft. Saturday, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. No reservations necessary. Carson, (310) 537-4778; Fountain Valley, (714) 963-8255; and Laguna Hills, (949) 462-9353. www.lakeshorelearning.com • Annual Noon-Year’s Confetti Countdown at Pretend City December 31: Twas’ the day before New Year’s and all through the city, the citizens are stirring and buzzing about with sparkling streamers, blowouts, noise makers, and confetti that will make this the party of all parties!

Sunday, check website for schedule. Free with admission; no reservation required. 29 Hubble, Irvine. (949) 428-3900. www.pretendcity. org. See ad on page 6.

Family New Year’s Eve at LA Zoo December 31: Celebrate the new year in style kidsguide holiday guide 2017 47

with express entry to L.A. Zoo Lights, a dinner buffet that includes soft drinks and dessert, a carousel ride, games, DJ dance party, and live broadcast of the Times Square ball drop. Raise a toast to the new year with complimentary champagne for adults (21+) and sparkling apple cider for kids. Cash bar available. After the party, families are welcome to enjoy L.A. Zoo Lights until closing. Sunday, 6 p.m. Adults, $69; kids (2-12), $45. 5333 Zoo Drive, Los Angeles.

(323) 644-4200. www.lazoolights.org

Family-Friendly New Year’s Eve in Long Beach December 31: Downtown Long Beach welcomes the new year in style with a familyfriendly event on the waterfront, and a DTLB street party on Pine Ave. Sunday, 6-10 p.m.

Free. www.downtownlongbeach.org

live entertainment, food vendors, roaming entertainment and a fireworks show at midnight.

Sunday, 7 p.m. - midnight. Admission is free; rides and activities, minimal fee. Downtown Fullerton, Harbor Blvd., Pomona Ave., and Wilshire Ave., Fullerton. (714) 738-6545. www. cityoffullerton.com

First Night 2018 in Fullerton December 31: Stop by Downtown Fullerton to ring in the New Year! Enjoy kids activities, rides,

Kids’ New Year’s Eve Celebration at Legoland California December 31: “Midnight” comes early for fami-

Spotlight • Art Steps Mission Viejo (949) 454-9555 24000 Alicia Pkwy., # 31 Yorba Linda

(714) 524-2248 18212 Imperial Hwy. www.artstepsclasses.com Art Steps teaches realistic, classical drawing and painting skills to kids (ages 4+), teens and adults. Students receive hands-on, step-by-step guidance as they walk through lessons in a variety of subjects and media, from crayons through oil paint, gaining confidence through learning to skillfully render what they see, one step at a time. Birthday parties or scout classes at Art Steps are fun, mini art classes. Each child proudly brings home a beautiful, finished drawing in crayon, marker or pastel, as a party favor or as work toward an art badge. Fill your school breaks with fine art day camps! Half-day and full-day options offer something for every young artist (see Winter Camps for more information). Contact them for details on their new location opening soon in West Orange County! See ad on page 21.

• Kidnastics Quality Gymnastics and Cheerleading Training Center 10712 Reagan St., Los Alamitos (562) 431-1102 www.kidnastics.net Kidnastics is celebrating their 40th year anniversary in the Los Alamitos/Seal Beach community. As a recreational gymnastics and competitive cheerleading facility with over 24,000 square feet of full-line gymnastics equipment and various spring floors, they offer nothing but the best instructional classes for your children.

Here, children learn all levels of gymnastics and cheer.

They offer a variety of classes for children ages 12 months through the teen years. Programs include Totnastics, their early motor development and coordination classes designed for toddlers ages 12-36 months, instructional gymnastics classes for ages 3 years and up, and our feature program; The Go Ninja program that focuses on strength, agility and obstacle training for boys and girls ages 4 and up. In addition to their great gymnastics program, they also offer competitive

cheer programs: HSC Prep All Stars and RISE All Stars for ages 4 years and up. Plus their seasonal summer day camps. Known for their quality and effective instructional classes, they strive to provide a positive and fun experience by teaching the importance of staying fit and having fun with gymnastics and cheer. Visit the website or call the number listed for more program information. See ad on page 35.

• Kidspace Children’s Museum 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena (626) 449-9144 Find your adventure at Kidspace Children’s Museum by exploring the Arroyo Adventure and over 40 hands-on exhibits, as well as daily programming and themed events. Kidspace nurtures the potential of all children through kid-driven experiences, inspiring them to become joyful, active learners. Families can learn and play together while creating lasting memories. See ad on page 43.

• Skatedogs (714) 313-8787 www.skatedogs.com After-school and weekend classes in skateboarding, one of the world’s fastest growing sports. Offered in conjunction with the recreation departments of Arcadia, Beverly Hills, Brea, Cerritos, Cypress, Glendora, Huntington Beach, Irvine, Lakewood, Long Beach, Los Alamitos, Manhattan Beach, Mission Viejo, Newport Beach, Redondo Beach, Seal Beach and Tustin. They offer classes for all ability levels. Kids (5-13) make new friends, advance their skateboarding skills, and most importantly, have fun—all in Skatedogs’ private skatepark. They also offer private lessons, birthday parties and camps during school breaks (see Winter Camps). See ad on page 28.

• South Coast Repertory Theatre Conservatory 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa (714) 708-5577 www.scr.org The skills developed and explored in the classrooms

at South Coast Repertory Theatre Conservatory give students the ability—and the confidence—to become creative problem solvers, inspired communicators and innovative thinkers. Their classes, taught by a faculty of professional artists, are held in a safe and creative environment. Winter Conservatory classes begin January 9. Learn more and sign up for classes at www.scr.org or call (714) 708-5577.

See ad on page 39.

• St. Hedwig School 3591 Orangewood Ave., Los Alamitos (562) 296-9060 www.sthedwigk8.org Serving students from TK-8th grade, St. Hedwig School strives to develop the whole child, one who is academically competitive and who demonstrates good character grounded in Catholic values.

They aim to provide an exceptional educational experience and to empower students to face the challenges of 21st century learning and make a difference in their world. In addition to rigorous academics, St. Hedwig offers music, the arts and physical education classes, plus competitive sports and after-school enrichment programs. The entire St. Hedwig family of teachers and administrators welcome the opportunity to partner with you as parents, to guide and educate your child. Open enrollment is year-round! Call today to schedule a private tour. See ad on page 43.

• Sylvan Learning Centers Downey (562) 622-9210 Huntington Beach (714) 848-6072 Laguna Niguel (949) 349-1835 Long Beach (562) 429-8320 www.sylvanlearning.com At Sylvan, results matter and this time of the year is the perfect time to get caught up in school, stay on track, or get ahead! With Sylvan, you’ll get a personalized tutoring program tailored to the needs of your child.

Make sure your child aces the next report card and has a strong semester with their proven approach. Their

lies at Legoland California Resort, celebrating the New Year together without missing their bedtimes. Legoland California re-creates the Times Square ball drop with a giant Lego brick falling 22 feet in the air at San Diego’s largest Kids’ New Year’s Eve Party! Join in the festivities with party hats and special glasses for viewing fireworks. The party concludes just in time for the countdown at 6 p.m. with a fireworks display illuminating the sky and providing a great ending to an amazing year. Sunday,

2 p.m. $89+. One Legoland Drive, Carlsbad.

(760) 918-5346. www.california.legoland.com

centers are open year-round with a flexible schedule and budget to make it easier on you this holiday season! Call today for more details! See ad on page 51.

between excellence in education and a Biblical World view. Students enjoy outstanding training in fine arts, sports, honors and AP courses (with unparalleled pass rates), and STEM, including award-winning robotics. All courses are taught by highly-engaged Christian teachers who consider their profession a calling. They guide students to academic excellence, artistic accomplishment and athletic distinction. Preschool through 12th grade operates on four separate campuses, and offers a wide variety of experience-based and progressive learning opportunities, including multi-age classes at the elementary campus. 97% of VCHS graduates go on to colleges and universities. About 30% each year are accepted at the nation’s top 100 colleges and universities. You’re welcomed to come and see any of the Valley Christian campuses. Your first visit will include an Educational Success Consultation with one of the principals, followed by a tour. Contact Dianne Grasmeyer to schedule your visit, (562) 860-0556. See ad on page 37.

• The Prentice School 18341 Lassen Drive, North Tustin (714) 244-4600 www.prentice.org Founded in 1986, the school serves bright students in grade K-8 with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences and related learning challenges, such as ADHD and anxiety. Their mission is to empower children with learning differences to fulfill their potential by using a multi-sensory teaching approach and an adaptive learning environment. With a 10:1 student to faculty ratio, small classrooms engage students in a manner of learning that is conducive to their unique needs. Additional services include: speech and language, occupational therapy, social skills and educational assistive technology, along with a wide range of enrichment activities to develop and maximize each child’s abilities. As a private, nonprofit and nonpublic academic school accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, The Prentice School has established a reputation as one of the leading schools for students with learning differences. See ad on page 31.

• The Tutoring Center 4215 Atlantic Ave., Long Beach (562) 653-4380 www.tutoringcenter.com Are you happy with your child’s grades? Call The Tutoring Center today to schedule your Free Diagnostic Assessment. The Tutoring Center uses a unique system known as “The Rotational Approach to Learning.” Your child will receive intense oneto-one instruction in reading, math (all levels) and/ or writing to rapidly increase academic skills while also improving concentration, focus and attention span. See ad with discount coupon on page 8.

• Valley Christian Schools Cerritos area (562) 860-0556 www.vcschools.org At Valley Christian, you’ll find an inescapable link

New Years Noon Party in La Habra December 31: No longer will little ones feel left out by the late night New Year’s festivities! The whole family can celebrate the countdown to 12 o’clock noon! Complete with hat making, face painting, dancing, and a balloon drop, ring in the New Year in style. Sunday, 10 a.m. - noon. Reservations required. Please call to RSVP. Free to CMLH mem-

• Vans Skatepark 20 City Blvd. West, Orange (714) 769-3800 www.vans.com Vans Skatepark is a 40,000-square-foot facility featuring a full skate and BMX course for all skill levels ages 6+. The location also houses a full Vans retail store and skate pro shop. Birthday party packages, private lessons and skate camps are available. Vans Skatepark is open seven days a week, 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. (9 p.m. on Sundays). Please go to vans. com/skateparks for more information. Sign up for Holiday Clinics on Saturday, December 9 and 16.

See ad on page 7.

• Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts 9390 N. Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills.

(310) 746-4000. www.thewallis.org. See ad on page 25.

Second Sundays: Free Dance Sundays with Debbie Allen - Dancers and families of all ages can en-

bers. Included with admission. Children’s Museum at La Habra, 301 S. Euclid St., La Habra. (562) 383-4236. www.lhcm.org • Noon Year’s Eve at Kidspace December 31: Midnight is way past bedtime, so celebrate the new year a bit early with Kidspace!

Experience the ginormous balloon drop at noon, sip and toast cups of sparkling cider, and create your own party hats and noisemakers to ring in 2018! Dance as you count down to the stroke

joy the wildly popular dance lesson sessions with three-time Emmy Award-winner Debbie Allen and Friends every second Sunday on the Promenade Terrace. Open to the public, each session will focus on one style of dance. Noon - 1:45 p.m. Free.

February 11 and March 11: Free Interactive Performances by The Story Pirates - The Story Pirates celebrate the words and ideas of the kids of LA! Join first-rate actors and comedians on the Promenade Terrace for stories written by kids from all around the country and brand new stories written by kids (3-12) in the audience. Sundays. 2:30 p.m. Free. February 11, Toddler Show. March 11, New Story Show.

of noon! Sunday. Activities start at 10:30 a.m.

Included with museum admission. 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena. (626) 449-9144. www. kidspacemuseum.org. See ad on page 43.

• Noon Years Eve Party at My Gym December 31: Join My Gym for a fun noon year’s celebration. Sunday, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Call for details and prices. 3287 Industry Drive. (562) 986-0066. www.mygym.com/longbeach. See ad on page 47.

NYE at Winter Fest OC in Costa Mesa December 31: Winter Fest OC hosts a New Year’s Eve celebration featuring all the magic of Winter Fest. Live entertainment will include a magic show, a hypnotist and dueling pianos. New Year’s Eve will be celebrated in New York time with a 500 beach ball drop and local time with a 3,000 beach ball drop and champagne toast. Sunday, noon - 1 a.m. $10-79. 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa. www. winterfestoc.com NYELA New Year’s Eve LA at Grand Park December 31: For the fourth year, Grand Park and The Music Center’s N.Y.E.L.A. will be the go-to central gathering place in Los Angeles where Angelenos ring in the New Year.

Includes music, dancing, large-scale art installations and a unique only-in-Los Angeles New Year’s countdown, featuring 3-D digital video mapping on the side of the iconic City Hall with an integrated light show. Sunday, 8 p.m. - 1 a.m. Free. Downtown Los Angeles. www.grandparkla.org Surf City Splash 2018 at Huntington Beach Pier January 1: Celebrate the New Year with a dip into the chilly Pacific Ocean. Be sure to wear your bathing suit. No wetsuits—that’s cheating! Monday, registration and pancake breakfast, 9-11 a.m.; splash at noon. Registration $20, benefiting Huntington Beach International Surfing Museum. All participants receive breakfast and certificate of appreciation. 405

Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach. www. hbsurfcitysplash.com Tournament of Roses Parade January 1: The 129th Rose Parade features floral floats, spirited marching bands and highstepping equestrian units along the 5.5-mile route down Colorado Boulevard. Experience the magic of New Year’s Day in an unrivaled celebration. Monday, 8-11 a.m. Grandstand seating available for purchase. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. www.tournamentofroses.com Rose Parade Float Showcase in Pasadena January 1-2: Following the Rose Parade, walk within feet of the floral and animated masterpieces parked along Sierra Madre and Washington boulevards. Come rain or shine, take a closer look at the design and workmanship that went into each float entry and learn more about the float process from Tournament volunteers “white suiters” on hand. Comfortable walking shoes and early arrival are suggested. No pets or bikes allowed. Monday, 1-5 p.m.; Tuesday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. $15. Sierra Madre and Washington Blvd., Pasadena. www.tournamentofroses.com Musical Theater Workshop with Acting Out January 2: This workshop will focus on singing, dancing and showmanship. Includes fun, musical games and activities, for kids who are just eager to have fun and explore the world of musical theater. En Pointe Dance Studio, Long Beach. Tuesday, 9 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Puppetry and Improv Workshop with Acting Out January 4: Campers will make their own puppets, and learn how to use them in improvisation and scenes. Along with some awesome theater games, this makes for a fun day! En Pointe Dance Studio, Long Beach. Thursday, 9 a.m. 3:30 p.m.

Oshogatsu Family Festival in LA January 7: Celebrate the Year of the Dog with

fun cultural activities and performances, special foods, fun crafts, and more. Start your new year off right with a free bowl of lucky zaru soba (cold buckwheat noodles) while supplies last.

Sunday, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Free. Japanese American National Museum, 100 North Central Ave., Los Angeles. (213) 625-0414. www.janm.org Snow Day in Fullerton January 17: See “Snow Days” for details.

• Inaugural St. Hedwig School 5K Run/Walk in Long Beach January 20: Join other families for the inaugural 5K Run/Walk benefitting St. Hedwig School. The course will take place along the beachfront walk starting at Ocean and Granada in Long Beach. All participants will receive a T-shirt and medal. Saturday. Registration opens, 7 a.m. Start time, 8 a.m. Kids Fun Run, 9 a.m. Adults, $30; kids (16 and under), $15.

Register online now at www.sthedwigk8.org.

See ad on page 43.

• Valley Christian Schools January 27 and February 3: Valley Christian High School and Middle School will open its doors for your visit on January 27. High School, 10 a.m.: administrators and students will share about the Valley Christian vision on curriculum, followed by campus tours and opportunities to meet teachers. Middle School, noon: VCMS offers an extraordinary Middle School education where students from Christian families develop in a variety of areas—academically, spiritually, athletically and emotionally. The Elementary School (Bellflower campus) open house is February 3, 10 a.m.: VCES focuses on educating growing students in character, Biblical Worldview and top curriculum so they are well prepared as they advance. Valley Christian Preschool, a joyful and wonderful place for infant through pre-kindergarten age, offers tours daily; (562) 263-3030. 17700 Dumont Ave., Cerritos. (562) 860-0556. www.vcschools. org. See ad on page 37.

So much more @ kidsguidemagazine.com parties. schools. tutoring. sports. child care. arts. parenting resources. free stuff. more.

50 kidsguide holiday guide 2017

lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

Winter Camps Alpert JCC in Long Beach 3801 E. Willow St., Long Beach (562) 426-7601, Ext. 1023 www.alpertjcc.org When schools out, the AJCC is the place to be.

TK - 8th graders can spend winter break at camp! Program includes daily themes, swimming, sports, arts and crafts, and more. Covers LBUSD school vacation days. 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.; extended hours available. Visit website for more information and pricing.

American Camp Association (800) 428-2267 www.acacamps.org, www.acasocal.org www.campparents.com Referrals and recommendations for accredited camps.

Anaheim Community Services (714) 765-5191 www.anaheim.net/play CampVenture Day Camp (6-13) - Daily activities

include crafts, movies, nature, science, cooking, sports, weekly excursion and more. Themedweekly sessions, November - January. 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Extended hours, 7:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. Call for dates and fees.

Aquarium of the Pacific Winter-Camp Adventures 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach (562) 590-1630 www.aquariumofpacific.org Aquarium of the Pacific offers three winter camps: Sea Squirt Camp, where kids (ages 5-6) discover the underwater world of sea creatures, January 2-4; Winter Day Camp (ages 7-12), a marine life exploration through behind-thescenes tours, interaction with Aquarium staff members, games, crafts and hands-on time with various sea animals—all documented in a keepsake camp journal, December 27-29; and Winter Teen Overnight, which offers teens (ages 13-15) the chance to learn about the deep sea and ocean exploration before spending the night at the Aquarium, December 27-28.

• Art Steps - Awaken the Force 3-Day Winter Clay Workshop Mission Viejo (949) 454-9555 24000 Alicia Pkwy., # 31 Yorba Linda (714) 524-2248 18212 Imperial Hwy. www.artstepsclasses.com This three-day workshop for kids (7+) features both clay and drawing projects. Students will learn 2-D and 3-D art skills while they build and draw their favorite friends from a galaxy far, far away. January 3-5, Wednesday - Friday. 9 a.m. - noon. $170 (includes materials). Offered at Yorba Linda and Mission Viejo Art Steps Studios. See ad on page 21.

Bellflower Recreation and Parks (562) 866-5684 www.bellflower.org/depts/parks Youth Volleyball Winter Camp (8-18), beginning December 16 or January 2. Tuesday - Friday, 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. $75 per week or $125 for both weeks. Thompson Park.

Boys and Girls Club Day camps (5-18) are offered at most branches during vacation breaks and school holidays, usually Monday - Friday, 6:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. (hours vary). Most clubs also offer overnight and leadership camps (13-18). For locations see

Any Sylvan Winter Camp! *

lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

kidsguide holiday guide 2017 51

Youth and Family Groups under the Kidsguide Directory.

Build It Workspace 4388 Cerritos Ave., Los Alamitos (714) 947-0800 www.buildit.ws Unleash every child’s tech passion through the different creative spaces at Build It Workspace. From traditional woodworking and fiber art to computer coding and digital avatar creation, Build It Workspace makes the perfect blend for age-appropriate activities and challenges between the physical and digital worlds, from 3D printing through robotics.

Costa Mesa Parks and Community Services (714) 754-5161 www.costamesaca.gov Winter Camp Costa Mesa (grades K-6) - Excursions, games, skits, arts and crafts, and more.

December 26 - January 5. $165 per week. 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Downey Parks and Recreation (562) 904-7223 www.downeyca.org A variety of sports camps available, November January. Visit website or call for details.

Fullerton Parks and Recreation (714) 738-6575 www.fullertoneconnect.com Hillcrest Winter Day Camps - Kids (5-12) get active outdoors and explore, create and learn through various arts, crafts and enrichment projects. December 26 - January 5, $112-160.

Winter camps run 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., with extended hours, 7 a.m. - 6 p.m.

International Water Polo Club School-break camps focus on getting kids used to the water in a non-competitive environment. (949) 533-5216. www.internationalwaterpoloclub.com Irvine Recreation (949) 470-3000 www.cityofmissionviejo.org/recreation Winter camps available. Camp choices include arts, sports, culinary, and more. Visit their website or call for details.

• Kidnastics 10712 Reagan St., Los Alamitos (562) 431-1102 www.kidnastics.net Are you looking for a fun-filled exciting program for your children to get into? Well, look no further.

Kidnastics Gymnastics offers exciting winter and day camp programs for children ages 4 years and up. With flexible day camps programs either for the day-to-day camper or the full week, your child will enjoy instructional gymnastics along 52 kidsguide holiday guide 2017

with arts, crafts, games and much more. Visit the website or call the number listed above for more program information. See ad on page 35.

Lake Forest Community Services 25550 Commercentre Drive, Lake Forest (949) 273-6960 www.lakeforestca.gov Holiday Hoopla Rockin’ Winter Camp and Winter Break Teen Adventure Camp, December 2629 and January 2-5. Etnies Fall Skate Camp also offered. Call for details, ages, and fees.

• Lil’ Chef School 15435 Jeffrey Road, #132, Irvine (949) 679-8390 www.lilchefschool.com Two weeks of Lil’ Chef winter-camp workshops to choose from! During this year’s winter camps’ theme, “Holiday World Tour,” Lil Chefs will “visit:” Italy on Tuesday, Latin America on Wednesday, the Mediterranean on Thursday and will explore American regional foods on Friday. Throughout the camp, participants will learn how to make everything from scratch, properly measure wet and dry ingredients, learn knife skills and learn to bake some amazing sweet treats and savory favorites. All chefs wear an apron while they are at camp and will get to taste everything that they cook. Recipes will be available for the young chefs. December 26-29 and January 2-5. Both camps run Tuesday - Friday, 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Sibling discount available.

See ad on page 18.

Los Alamitos Recreation (562) 430-1073 www.cityoflosalamitos.org/recreation Winter camp (5-12): Games, arts and crafts, outdoor activities, and more. December 26 - January 5. 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.; optional extended care, 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. $25 per day/$40 per extended day.

Mathobotix (562) 594-5000 www.mathobotix.com Mathobotix Bytes and Bots STEM winterbreak camps include coding, app development, IoT, game development, and educational robotics.

• Moving Mindz 4000 Long Beach Blvd., Ste. 205, Long Beach (562) 318-9966 www.movingmindz.com Moving Mindz offers winter, spring, and summer camps to engage students in learning and exploring science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). This winter, their camps will focus on modding in Minecraft, building and cod-

ing LEGO robots, engineering structures with K’NEX, and coding your own illustrations with Python. For more information and to register your child, visit them at www.movingmindz. com. See ad on page 53.

• My Gym Children’s Fitness Center Long Beach 3287 Industry Drive, Signal Hill (562) 986-0066 www.mygym.com/longbeach December 27 - January 5: My Gym Children’s Fitness Center offers one of the best camp programs in town. Children of all ages can enjoy a day of camp with hands-on arts and crafts, music, relays, games, and overall emphasis on learning solid skills and fundamentals in sports and gymnastics. Themed days and activities add to the fun and atmosphere of their winter camps. Sign up for one day or up to four days per week. See ad on page 47.

• Gripper’s Holiday Hits

Junior Tennis Camps Newport Beach Tennis Club, 2601 Eastbluff Drive (949) 644-0050 www.gripnripjuniortennis.com Gripper’s Holiday Hits Junior Tennis Camp aims to get kids (5-14) excited about playing tennis. They help build the confidence and skills of players, whether they are first-timers or intermediate. With the use of softer balls and reduced-sized courts, children of all levels can learn the joy of tennis and increase their abilities from the coaches at Grip N’ Rip. The fun includes games, contests and prizes. Camp runs Tuesday - Friday, December 26-29 or January 2-5, 10 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Sign-up for both sessions, one session, or by-the-day. Get 10% off registration when you mention Kidsguide! See ad on page 53.

• Newport Beach Recreation (949) 644-3151 www.newportbeachca.gov/recreation This winter, your little Minecrafters will be able to navigate their solving and tactical thinking skills in a Minecraft Creation Camp.

Your child can explore their creative side in a Lisa Albert Mixed Media Art Camp. If you’re looking to build your child’s confidence, check out the City’s Day Camp where they’ll enjoy structured activities while making new friends. Little adventurers will explore the great outdoors while learning new skills in one of their Edutainment Arts camps. More camps include BMX, cooking, STEM, Jedi Engineering and more! See ad on page 26.

Sandie Mercer Ranch at Lakewood Equestrian Center 11369 Carson St., Lakewood (562) 425-1905 Holiday weekly extended lesson program at lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

4000 Long Beach Blvd., Ste. 205

Winter STEM Camps Moving STEM Education in a Whole New Direction

Register now!

December 26 - 30, 2017 January 2 - 5, 2018 Tuesday - Friday, 9am - 12pm

Modding with Minecraft • Lego Robotics K’NEX Engineering • Coding with Python

Sibling Discounts and Extended Care Available Saturday & Weekday Classes offered too!

(562) 318-9966 4000 Long Beach Blvd., Ste. 205 • • http://mindz-one.com/ lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

kidsguide holiday guide 2017 53

Sandie Mercer Ranch for ages 7-17. Learn all about horses: leading, grooming, bathing, parts of saddle and bridle, breed types, colors and markings, plus horseback riding two times daily. Weekly sessions, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Enrollment is limited. Email: sandiejmercer@ gmail.com.

Signal Hill Community Services (562) 989-7330 www.cityofsignalhill.org Winter camps offered. Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. $32-40 per week. Visit website for details. Signal Hill Park.

• Skatedogs’ Winter-Break Camps www.skatedogs.com (714) 313-8787 Whether you are just learning or ready to learn advanced tricks, this camp is right for you! Participants (5-13) make new friends, advance skills, play games, and most importantly, have fun in the Skatedogs’ private skatepark. Requirements: signed Skatedogs waiver form, skateboard, knee pads, elbow pads and helmet. For Skatedogs’ winterbreak camps, visit www.skatedogs.com to find the locations nearest you! See ad on page 28.

• Sylvan Learning Centers Downey (562) 622-9210 Huntington Beach (714) 848-6072 Laguna Niguel (949) 349-1835 Long Beach (562) 429-8320 www.sylvanlearning.com Winter Camp registration at Sylvan has begun! With full-day and half-day options during winter break, Sylvan is sure to have the perfect fit for your family’s schedule. Sylvan has options ranging from STEM camps featuring Robotics with LEGO, Game Design, and more as well as engaging academic camps featuring writing, reading and math.

Parents leave happy knowing their student used their winter break in the best way, and

students leave happy knowing they had an awesome time! See ad on page 51.

The Irvine Ranch Outdoor Education Center 2 Irvine Park Road, Orange (714) 923-3191 www.outdooreducationcenter.org Year-round camp opportunities include outdoor science camp, overnight, academic and recreational day-use. Plus, STEM Day Camps and Activity Days. Operated by the Orange County Boy Scouts of America.

Tom Hicks Baseball Camps, LLC (562) 425-2446 www.tomhicksbaseballcamps.com The 28th annual THBC prides itself on being the area’s best fundamental baseball camp.

Camps, offered during Christmas vacation, focus on individual instruction and improvement.

Camps are available in Long Beach and the surrounding areas. For more information, visit their website.

• Vans Skatepark Holiday Skate Clinics 20 City Blvd., West, Orange (714) 769-3800 www.vans.com December 9 and 16: Vans Skatepark in Orange, a 40,000-square-foot facility, offers two different Holiday Clinics on Saturday, December 9 and 16. Instruction is offered for beginner to advanced street skateboarders, ages 6-16.

Pizza lunch is included. Clinic hours: 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. $40 for members; $50 for non-members.

Space is limited so sign up today. See ad on page 7.

Westminster Community Services and Recreation (714) 895-2860 www.westminster-ca.gov After-school parks program winter-break schedule, December 26 - January 5, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. at Bolsa Chica, Liberty, and Sigler parks. Call for details.

• Winter Hockey Camp at The Rinks – Anaheim ICE 300 West Lincoln Ave., Anaheim (714) 535-7465, Ext. “0” www.The-Rinks.com December 18-21: The Rinks - Anaheim ICE proudly hosts the All-World Hockey Institute Winter Hockey Camp from Monday, December 18 - Thursday, December 21, each day,10 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. The camp is open to players ages 7-13 and will consist of on and off ice drills, scrimmages, fun and games. $375 per player. See ad on page 17.

• YMCA of Orange County Winter-Break Camps (760) 249-3822 www.campelk.org, www.ymcaoc.org See ad on page 5.

Winter Overnight Camp - Winter Camp is a great way for kids, ages 8-14, to see a whole new side of YMCA’s Camp E.L.K. Camp is likely to have snow which will allow for additional activities like sledding, snow science, archery, winter survival skills, outdoor cooking, a New Year’s Eve Party and more. December 27 - January 1. $525. Financial assistance available; sibling discounts, too. Enrollment is limited to 50 campers.

Winter Day Camp - A great way for children to have fun in a safe and supportive environment during holiday break, December 22 - January 5––right on your school campus. Join them for a “snow ordinary” winter and enjoy participating in fun STEAM-related activities, plus video making, arts and crafts, frozen frenzy games, scavenger hunts, melting math fun, and on-site special events. Find a location near you at ymcs.org/wdc.

YMCA www.ymcaoc.org, www.lbymca.org, www.camp.ymca.org Individual branches offer day camp (5-15) during traditional and year-round school vacations.

Financial assistance is available.

Got These? petsguidemagazine.com 54 kidsguide holiday guide 2017

lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

Gift Guide + Give-Away Looking for some major deals for Christmas gifts for mom, dad, or the kids? To celebrate the holidays, Kidsguide presents our first-ever Gift Guide! And bonus, you can enter to win these items by clicking here!

For Mom:

A new bag can make mom feel like a new woman so why not treat her to a little luxury this season? The Alicia Soft Tote from Pixie Mood is a bag-in-a-bag made with vegan leather! It comes in a variety of colors and is equipped with an extra inner bag that has a detachable shoulder strap. She’ll have one big bag to tote around soccer games and another for date night. It’s a win-win.

Pixiemood.com

$75.00

Moms are always on the go, let’s face it, and this is the perfect companion for her! Meet the OZ Count Water Bottle from 50 Strong. It’s durable, made in the USA, BPA-free, and counts how many ounces of water you’re taking in. It’s perfect for active mommies hitting the gym or for the ones who get their workout running after a toddler all day!

Be50strong.com

For Dad:

$7.99

We love this product so much we think it’s great for dad too!

Plus, mom and dad can be twinning and what’s cuter than that?

The OZ Count Water Bottle can also be a fun way have a little family-friendly competition and see who can drink the most water throughout the day!

Be50strong.com

Value: $7.99

The equivalent of a purse for mom…the dad bag! The Daylite 16 Backpack from Matador is perfect for dads who love to be outdoors, or simply have to pick up a few groceries on the way home from work. It’s weatherproof, features two water resistant zipper compartments and two side pockets, has a 16-liter capacity, and fits into the palm of your hand. Trust us, dad will be a happy camper!

Matadorup.com

lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

$49.99

kidsguide holiday guide 2017 55

For Baby: This is the perfect gift for an expecting family! The Vintage Fox recordable stuffed animal from My Baby’s Heart Beat kit includes a 15" soft fleece fox and a heart-shaped recorder to capture baby's heartbeat during an ultrasound. This fox is perfect for snuggling and has a velcro closure on the back so that you can insert the recording. (Ages 3+) Mybabysheartbeat.com

$39.99

We’re on permanent beach time here in So Cal and this blanket is the perfect accessory for any beach baby! The La Ula kid-size blanket from Las Bayadas is made from the softest traditional Mexican fabric, and 10% of the profits go to Costa Verde International School. It also dries incredibly fast and is super easy to take care of, making it one of our top picks for little Kidsguiders.

Lasbayadas.com

$55

When the time comes to transition to a big kid cup, we know the struggle can be real! That’s why we love these adorable JJ Rabbit CUPPIES that feature miniature animal friends at the bottom of each cup. It encourages your little one to finish their drink so they can see their animal bestie, and helps ease the transition away from the sippy cup. Plus, they come in so many cute colors, are BPA, PVC and phthalate-free, and are eco-friendly. It’s a hit all the way around! (Ages 1+) JJrabbit.com

$7.49

Mealtime can be messy, and the endless pile of bibs that need washing can creep into our nightmares, but we found a solution! The Marcus & Marcus animal-themed bibs make clean up insanely easy. Give it a quick rinse with hot soapy water or put it in the dishwasher for even easier cleanup. They’re made from food-grade, soft and stain-resistant silicone and are BPA, PVC and phthalate-free. (Ages 6 months+) Marcusandmarcusna.com

56 kidsguide holiday guide 2017

$19.99

lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

For Tiny Tots (2-6): This one is for the future architect in the house! The Tonka Mighty Builder Hard Hat Bucket Play Set is great for easy cleanup, features over 20 different construction pieces, and the top doubles as a director hat to let everyone know who’s in charge.

The price point and versatility of this product is why we love it so much and know you will too! (Ages 1+) Walmart.com/tonkahardhat

$9.99

Bath time, ahh such a struggle, but so worth it when your little munchkin smells like a flower!

These soap infused, insanely cute Sponge Animals from Spongelle made our list because of they’re sulfate and cruelty-free label. Not to mention, they’re travel friendly and can be used up to 14 times! (Ages 3+) Spongelle.com

$14

Money and math are two concepts that kids should be taught early on and this product combines both of them into a bright, interactive toy! The award-winning Pretend & Play Calculator Cash Register encourages beginning math and calculator skills while providing lots of opportunities for imaginative play.

And, the calculator is solar powered which means no battery trips to the store on Christmas morning! It even makes an adorable “cha-ching” sound when opened. (Ages 3+) Learningresources.com

$39.99

A cash register would be missing something if we didn’t include an ATM! This is the perfect tool to teach your tots about credit/debit cards and show them that they aren’t magical pieces of plastic filled with endless amounts of money (someone add that to our wishlist!). This Pretend & Play Teaching ATM Bank features coin recognition, a mechanical bill feeder, and a pretend thumbprint sensor!

Learningresources.com

lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

$39.99

kidsguide holiday guide 2017 57

For Big Kids (6-12): How cool would it be for your kids to play doctor for the day (and for you not to be the patient)? The two board games made our gift guide for their mix of fun and learning. In Dr. Microbe, kids race to grab the correct colorful microbes and place them into their petri dish to solve an incomplete challenge card! While Dr. Beaker features more of a logic race as players move molecules around the compartments of their beaker to try and match solutions on flipped challenge cards. For both games, you have to be quick on your feet and think like a scientist! Perfect for family night and holiday gatherings! (Ages 8+) Blueorangegames.com

$21.99

If doctor games aren’t your kids’ thing, we’ve got you covered. The Tumble Tree and Dice Stack games are sure to keep you on the edge of your seats and entertained for hours. We love them because they’re small enough to take on family vacations and incorporate lots of learning which is always a plus in our book! The Tumble Tree is ideal for ages 6+ and The Dice Stack is recommended for ages 7+.

Blueorangegames.com

58 kidsguide holiday guide 2017

$13.99

lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

We love reading here at Kidsguide and of course we couldn’t finish this list off without including some of our favorite holiday books this year! Our top two came down to A World of Cookies for Santa, which is a multicultural celebration of treats enjoyed all over the globe, and Hog Wild which encourages kids to sing and dance their little hearts out. (Ages 6+) A World of Cookies for Santa

$12.99

Hog Wild!: A Frenzy of Dance Music

$13.60

Board games are definitely our thing this year, can you tell? We just adore them because they get the family together and reduce that dreaded screen time that can sometimes feel like it dominates our daily lives.

These last two gifts made our guide because they are a blast to play and great for little ones just hitting the board-game world. Monkey Bingo is packed with cards featuring cheeky monkeys and mischievous primates and Flying Kiwis is a hilarious launching game where your goal is to get your fruit to paradise. Both are guaranteed to make for some serious smile overload! (Ages 6+)

lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

Monkey Bingo

$25.99

Flying Kiwis

$19.99

kidsguide holiday guide 2017 59

Best.

Parenting.

Resource.

Ever.

Events • Resources Parenting Tips • Contests Lots More!

kidsguidemagazine.com Goodness, updated daily, all year long.

We wish you peace & joy this holiday season.

Win Family 4 Packs!

• Disney on Ice Presents Follow Your Heart Los Angeles: Dec 14-17 • Anaheim: Dec 20-24 Long Beach: Dec 27 - Jan 1 • Ontario: Jan 3-7

• Discovery Cube • Santa Ana Zoo

Enter Here!