KIDSGUIDE MORE ON KIDSGUIDEMAGAZINE.COM
WINTER 2016
Holiday Guide
PRIZES pg 60
Winter Camps Chill Outings Holiday Performances
Snow Play Ice Skating & Lots More!
450+ Ideas for Winter-Break Fun
Using The Holiday Guide The 2016 Holiday Guide is filled with tons of winter-break fun! Here’s how it works:
the digital version at www.kidsguidemagazine.com. It has thousands of additional ideas!
1) When looking for something to do on a particular day, first check the individual dates for what’s happening—pages 10-54. 2) Then look at the “Monthlong Events” found on pages 4-8 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 2016/17 fall/winter issue of Kidsguide available at libraries and kid-friendly retailers or view
Important: Be sure to confirm dates and times before going to any activity— things can change. Plan ahead—some activities require reservations.
Monthlong Events...................................................................4-8 Daily Events........................................................................10-54 Nutcracker Performances...................................................12-13 Snow Days...............................................................................18 Indoor Playgrounds.................................................................22 Ice Skating..........................................................................32-33 Holiday Performances.........................................................36-37 Tubing & Sledding....................................................................40 Chill Outings........................................................................46-47
PUBLISHER • Liz Davis EDITORS • Pam Chotiswatdi, Audrey Eftychiou AD SALES • Tiffany Salter CONTACT: 562.799.0140 info@kidsguidemagazine.com Spotlight on Kid-Friendly Businesses .....................................52 Winter Camps.....................................................................55-59 Schools & Tutoring....................................................................56 Legal stuff: “Kidsguide® Copyright 2016 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.”
kidsguidemagazine.com • Be sure to sign up on our website for The Buzzz, our free weekly e-letter.
2 kidsguide holiday guide 2016
lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com
Monthlong Events Aquarium of the Pacific Fridays through December 30: Free Shark Lagoon Nights. Get up close with the ocean’s ultimate predators. Guests touch and learn about sharks, shop, purchase drinks and snacks, and enjoy live music. 6-9 p.m. 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach. (562) 590-3100. www.aquariumofthepacific.org Big Air Trampoline Park Call for admission prices and times. Buena Park, (844) 550-JUMP; Laguna Hills, (949) 305-9788; and Redlands, (909) 335-7275. www.bigairusa.com Sunday - Thursday: Big Air Toddler Time - A special time just for little ones to jump around at their own pace without older kids. Friday and Saturday: Big Air Cosmic Nights They turn down the lights, turn up the music and fire up the lasers and strobes. • Columbia Memorial Space Center Saturdays: Join the CMSC for Saturday Science with fun and educational science activities and demonstrations. December 3, 10, 17 and 24, $5 per person. 12400 Columbia Way, Downey. (562) 231-1200. www.columbiaspacescience. org. See ad on page 51. • Discovery Cube OC and LA Orange County (714) 542-2823 Los Angeles (818) 890-1761 www.discoverycube.org December 17 - January 8: Winter Wonderfest. Enjoy tubing down a 75-foot snow ramp, snow sledding, weather learning stations and a snow play area. OC and LA locations. See ad on page 5.
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.
Saturday: Kids skate to kid’s music, and play games. Recommended for ages 10 years and under, with a parent. 10 a.m. - noon. Admission, $6.50; skate rental, $4.
Tuesday - Saturday: Dominguez Rancho Adobe, and Flight Path Learning Center and Museum.
Tuesday: Flashback Skate Night. Skate and groove to music hits from the 60s, 70s and 80s. All ages are welcome! 6:30-8:30 p.m. Admission, $6.50; skate rental, $4.
Tuesday - Sunday: California African American Museum, and Getty Center. First Tuesday: Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County and La Brea Tar Pits. Kidspace, first Tuesday night, 4-8 p.m. Second Tuesday: Los Angeles County Museum of Art and Autry National Center. Wednesday - Monday: Getty Villa. Wednesday - Sunday: Homestead Museum, Rancho Los Alamitos, Rancho Los Cerritos, and The Paley Center for Media. Thursday: Skirball Cultural Center. Thursday - Tuesday: Los Angeles County Museum of Art (kids ages 17 and under are always free). First Thursday: Huntington Library, Art Collections and Botanical Gardens with reserved tickets. Third Thursday: Japanese American National Museum. Thursday night: Long Beach Museum of Art, 3-8 p.m.; Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA), 5-8 p.m.; and Japanese American National Museum from 5-8 p.m.
November 25 - January 1: Science of Gingerbread. Inside the kitchen, much more is going on than pouring and mixing it’s science at work! Discovery Cube Orange County’s exhibition features handson kitchen science activities, decorating demonstrations and award-winning gingerbread houses on display. Daily. Included with admission.
First Friday: Norton Simon Museum, 5-8 p.m.
Free Admission Days at Museums Ongoing: Free admission is offered on varying days at the following museums. See Museums at www.kidsguidemagazine.com for contact information and museum details.
Saturday and Sunday: At Family Nights, a family up to five can skate, including skate rental, for a special deal! Saturdays, 7-9:30 p.m., $8 each; and Sundays, 6:30-8:30 p.m., $6.50 each.
Daily: Hammer Museum. Sunday: Museum of Latin American Art. 4 kidsguide holiday guide 2016
Friday: Long Beach Museum of Art. • Holiday Skate Center 175 N. Wayfield St., Orange. (714) 997-5515. www.holidayskate.com. See ad on page 14.
Movie Deals and Movie Theater Child Care Daily: Find family-friendly bargains on favorite movies in theaters now or great deals on old classics from Norwalk to San Juan Capistrano. Charter Centre Cinemas - Huntington Beach - $3 daily, $2 extra for 3-D movies; Wednesday Movie Special (after 6 p.m.), includes two admissions, two popcorns and two sodas, $11, and Sunday movies are $1.50 (plus 3D film surcharge), 7822 Warner Ave., Huntington Beach, (714) 596-3456. Norwalk 8 - $2-3 daily, $2 extra for 3-D movies, 13917 Pioneer Blvd., (562) 8045615. San Juan Capistrano - Tuesday special, $6 all day (excludes 3D films), 26762 Verdugo St., (949) 661-3456. South Coast Village - Classic film Wednesday and daily matinee, $8, 1561 W. Sunflower Ave., Santa Ana, (714) 557-5701. Westminster 10 - $5.50 all day Sunday (3D surcharge applies), 6721 Westminster Blvd., (714) 893-4222. www.regencymovies.com Century Huntington Beach in Bella Terra Cinemark Disney screens four Disney films on the big screen daily (line-up changes weekly). Daily pass for all four movies, $5; weekly, $10; monthly, $20; and quarterly, $40. 7777 Edinger Ave., #170, (714) 3734573. www.tinyurl.com/cinemarkdisney Four Stars Cinemas (showing new movies) 12111 Valley View St., Garden Grove, (714) 934-6377, Tuesday and Thursday Family Discount Days, $5 ($2 extra for 3D movies). www.4starcinemas.com Picture Show - 2800 Main St., Santa Ana Mall, (714) 836-7469, $2-3 daily; $4 for 3-D movies. www.pictureshowent.com In-Lobby Child PlayCenter at Harkin Cerritos 16 Kids (3-8) play games, read books, enjoy toys, and of course, watch movies, while mom and dad catch a movie. Walk-ups are welcome and reservations are recommended. 239 Los Cerritos Center, (562) lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com
D L! 2N UA N AN
DEC 17 - JAN 8
™
A snow storm of thrills and excitement is heading towards OC and LA during Winter Wonderfest! Experience over 100 tons of real snow, tube down a 75 foot ramp, engineer a candy car to compete in the Gingerbread Derby, and explore the science of weather. Don’t miss this arctic adventure at two locations in Southern California! LOCAL SPONSORS
Discovery Cube is closed Christmas Day, December 25
GET YOUR TICKETS TODAY AT DISCOVERYCUBE.ORG Discovery Cube is a registered 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. All rights reserved © Discovery Science Foundation.
Winter Fantasy at the Sawdust Art Festival in Laguna Beach Weekends through December 18: 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, $8; kids (6-12), $4; kids (under 5), free; Season pass, $10. 935 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach. (949) 494-3030. www.sawdustartfestival.org Holiday Entertainment at the Irvine Spectrum Through December 18: This season celebrate the weekend at Irvine Spectrum Center with live holiday entertainment on Saturdays and Sundays. View lineup on their website. Subject to change without notice. 71 Fortune Drive, Irvine. (949) 753-5180. www.shopirvinespectrumcenter.com The Little Mermaid in Westminster November 27 - December 4 and December 16-18: Rebellious 16-year-old mermaid Ariel is fascinated with life on land. On one of her visits to the surface, she falls for a human prince. Friday - Saturday, 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, 2 p.m. $1525. Rose Center Theater, 14140 All American Way, Westminster. www.rosecentertheater.com Little Women at Chance Theater November 25 - December 23: Watch a new musical from the classic novel of American literature. A coming-of-age tale filled with drama, romance, humor (and song!), during the Civil War. Show times vary, visit their website for times and to purchase tickets. $35. Chance Theater. 5222 E. La Palma Ave., Anaheim. www.chancetheater.com
865-4140. Additional location in Chino Hills. www. harkinstheatres.com/playcenter.asp 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 Holiday TV Shows Schedule Through December 26: Enjoy classic and new 6 kidsguide holiday guide 2016
holiday TV shows with the family. Check your local listings for time changes (all times are in Eastern). www.christmastvschedule.com Macy’s Letters To Santa Through December 24: Kids create a letter to Santa and drop it off at a Macy’s store (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
• CHOC Toy Drive at Pretend City November 25 - December 24: 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 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 one free admission the day of your visit with the purchase of one additional admission. 29 Hubble, Irvine. (949) 428-3900. www.pretendcity.org. See ad on page 50. Visit Santa at Roger’s Garden’s in Corona Del Mar November 25 - December 18: Bring kids to Roger’s Gardens and take professional photos with Santa Claus. Santa will be in the original Disneyland bandstand gazebo. Friday - Sunday, 9 a.m.- 6 p.m. 2301 San Joaquin Hills Road, Corona Del Mar. (949) 640-5800. www. rogersgardens.com lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com
Give the Gift of Theater this Holiday Season
The
Wallis 2016/2017 Season THEATER FOR YOUNG AUDIENCES 1/21 & 22
Morgan’s Journey
2/8 - 3/5
Kneehigh’s 946: The Amazing Story of Adolphus Tips
4/22 & 23
Elephant & Piggie’s We are in a Play!
FAMILY CONCERTS 1/29
Dan Zanes & Friends
4/29
Santa Cecilia Orchestra Trio
VISIT THEWALLIS.ORG TO JOIN OUR EXCITING SEASON OF THEATER, MUSIC, DANCE AND MORE!
PHOTO BY STEVE TANNER
CONNECT WITH US: 946: The Amazing Story of Adolphus Tips
310.746.4000 TheWallis.org/tyfa
Festival of Lights at The Mission Inn Hotel in Riverside November 25 - January 7: Be swept away by more than 3.6 million+ brilliant lights transforming Riverside’s historic hotel into magic. In addition to the external light display, The Mission Inn features a decorated Christmas tree, appearances by Santa Claus and Dickensian Carolers singing cheerful holiday tunes, authentic horse-drawn carriages, live reindeer, and characters dressed in 17th-century costumes to evoke the spirit of the season. Daily, 5:30-11 p.m. Note: Day trip visitors can also extend their Festival of Lights 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) 7840300. www.riversideca.gov/fol Enchanted: Forest of Light at Descanso Gardens November 26 - January 8: Two theatrical lighting houses have created 12 unique, largescale lighting experiences that illuminate a mile-long walk through 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 the Japanese Garden, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. Be sure to stop for hot cocoa (or an adult beverage). Daily, 5-10 p.m. Adults, $28; kids (3-18), $24. 1418 Descanso Drive, La Canada Flintridge. (818) 949-4200. www.descansogardens.org Grand Park Lights Up the Holidays November 26 - December 25: Grand Park will be magically lit for the holidays, with a 45-foot tree as the centerpiece. Daily, 5:30-10 p.m. Free. 200 North Grand Ave., Downtown Los Angeles. www.grandparkla.org Dancing-Light Tree and Snowfall at Universal CityWalk November 27 - December 25: Universal CityWalk celebrates the holiday season with visits with Santa, their dancing-light Christ8 kidsguide holiday guide 2016
mas tree, music and lights at 5 Towers (see schedule on their website). Plus, nightly snowfall every hour from 6-9 p.m. Daily. Free to spectate. 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City. www.citywalkhollywood.com Operation Santa Paws 2016 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 17th to animals in need. Visit their website for program details and drop-off locations. (562) 439-3316. www.hautedogs.org/santapaws.html North Pole Nights on the USS Iowa in San Pedro December 1-4, 9-11, 16-18, 23, 30 and 31: Stroll through an illuminated North Pole Village in front of the historic Battleship Iowa. Featuring an interactive tour through the decked halls, a mailbox, located in the enlisted mess hall, where kids write letters to the troops overseas or send to Santa at the North Pole. Families have the opportunity to become an official member of Vicky’s Order of the Blue Noses, take a downhill ride on the Arctic Slide, and lace up ice skates and spin around the ice rink on the fantail. Plus, food trucks, cookies, treats, hot cocoa and other beverages for purchase. Friday and Saturday, 5-10 p.m.; and Sunday, 5-9 p.m. Dockside activities, free. Tour, $12. Ice skating with skate rental, $15. 250 S. Harbor Blvd., San Pedro. (877) 4469261. www.pacificbattleship.com Valley Kids Consignment in San Fernando Valley December 1 - January 4: Items for newborns to juniors, including strollers, toys, games, books, furniture, shoes, sporting goods, clothes, diapers, blankets, bedding, outdoor toys and more. Daily, 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. $16 to enter; free for new mommies, consignors and volunteers. 18425-A Nordhoff St., Northridge. www.valleykidsconsignment.com
Newport Harbor Christmas Boat Cruises December 2-13 and December 19 - January 1: Holiday cruises are offered nightly on the nights of the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade. Daily, 5:30, 7 and 8:30 p.m. departure times. $32+. Registration by phone or online. (949) 673-1435. www.newportbeachboatparade.com Grinchmas at Universal Studios December 3 - January 1: A grinchy-green “Grinchmas” returns to Universal Studios Hollywood with a Who-lebration. Featuring a 60-foot-tall Grinchmas. The spirit of Grinchmas will also come to life aboard the Studio Tour, with performances by Who-ville Whos re-enacting popular scenes and songs from the film, “Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” Weekends through December 11; then daily, December 16 - January 1. Call for specific dates and times. Included in park admission. (800) UNIVERSAL. 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City. (800) 864-8377. www. universalstudioshollywood.com Trolley Tour of Lights in Long Beach December 8-28: Board a classic cable-car trolley for a waterfront tour that showcases 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. start times: adults, $30; kids (12 and under), $20. 5236 E. 2nd St. (in front of Legends), Long Beach. (562) 888-2870. www.longbeachtrolley.com Weekend Tidepool at Cabrillo Marine Aquarium December 10, 11, 24:, 27. 29 and 31: Attend an informative slide show in the John M. Olguin Auditorium, then come along on the naturalist-led ramble on the rocks to see animals in their natural habitat. Outdoor clothing and sneakers advised. Young children must be accompanied by adults. Visit their website for days and times. Free. 3720 Stephen M. White Drive, San Pedro. (310) 5487562. www.cabrillomarineaquarium.org lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com
celebrate the holidays with Pirate’s Dinner Adventure!
$
25 Off
Adults* $
15 Off
Children*
*Valid for up to 9 guests, subject to availability.
Scoundrel pirates have captured Santa & Mrs. Claus! You, and your family, and a little holiday magic can help ensure Santa defeats the pirates and saves the season!
For Tickets and Showtimes call
1.866.439.2469
piratesdinneradventureca.com 7600 Beach Blvd. Buena Park, CA 90620
follow us on our social pages
Holiday show runs 12/5/16 - 12/25/16. Reservations required. Mention code: KG-Holiday. Offer valid for general admission only. Not valid with any other promotion, discount, or group reservation. Tax and fees not included. Valid up to 9 guests. Gratuity not included and will be charged for parties of 10 or more. Expires 12/30/16. Subject to availability.
Daily Events Black Friday Pajama Party in Irvine November 24: Sign up for Storybook Pajama Party on the night of Black Friday! While parents shop, the kiddos create a storybook, sip some hot chocolate, meet new friends, and have some party fun! Thursday, 10 p.m. - midnight. $30, includes storybook, games and treats. Get more details and register on their website. 825 Spectrum Center Drive, Irvine. (949) 396-1840. www.storymakery.com Christmas Crafts and Vintage Market at Bates Nut Farm November 25-27: Bates Nut Farm hosts their largest arts and crafts fair of the year. The Christmas Arts, Crafts and Vintage Market features over 80 artisans, selling a variety of American handmade crafts and fine art. Live bands perform on the Bates Stage. Take a free hayride with Santa on Friday and Saturday. Friday - Sunday, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Live music, noon - 3 p.m. Admission and parking are free. Breakfast: $6 adults/$5 children, includes pancakes, eggs, bacon, coffee and orange juice. Proceeds benefit local charities. 15954 Woods Valley Road, Valley Center. (800) 6420348. www.batesnutfarm.biz All Day Skate at Fountain Valley Skating Center November 25: Skate that turkey off and boycott Black Friday with games, prizes and fun! Friday, noon - 6 p.m. $13; includes skate rental, a hot dog, and a fountain soda. Stay half day for $7.50. 9105 Recreation Circle, Fountain Valley. (714) 847-0022. www.fvsc.com Turtle and Tortoise Care at Kidspace November 25: Join Kidspace’s Nature Specialist and explore proper pet care and housing for your animal friends. Friday, 3-3:30 p.m. Included with admission. 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena. (626) 449-9144. www.kidspacemuseum.org • Black Friday Mini-Camps at Lil’ Chef School November 25: Parents take advantage of this one-day Mini Camp that allows them to shop while their kiddos cook up a feast. In the morning session, Lil’ Chefs will learn Baking 101: they will bake favorite brunch items, including Maple Breakfast Casserole, Eggnog Pancakes, and Black Forest Cake. During the afternoon session, Lil’ Chefs will prepare pasta from scratch served with a bolognese meat sauce and for dessert, Chocolate Lovers Trifle. That evening, parents can get some holiday shop10 kidsguide holiday guide 2016
ping done while their child makes pizza dinner from scratch. Includes three yummy toppings and pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting for dessert. Ages 3+ (children must be potty trained). Friday, morning or afternoon session, 9 a.m. - noon or 1-4 p.m., $49; both morning and afternoon sessions, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., $109; sibling discounts available. Evening session, 5:30-8:30 p.m., $45. 15435 Jeffery Road, #132, Irvine. (949) 679-8390. www.lilchefschool.com. See ad on page 16. Candy Making Demonstration in Ontario November 25-26 and December 3, 9, 12-16, 19-23, and 28: Every year in December, Logan’s Candies host candy-making demonstrations to the public and by group appointment. Go see the craftsmanship and care they put into all of their handmade, gourmet candies. They even share the candies that they make right in front of you. See schedule of times on their website. Demonstrations are limited to available space. Show up 15-20 minutes prior to demonstrations to ensure availability. Please note: public restrooms are not available, plan accordingly. 125 W. B St., Ontario. (909) 9845410. www.loganscandies.com Lighting of Back Bay and Polar Paradise at Newport Dunes Free event parking Friday and Saturday, and with Back Bay Bistro validation on Sunday. 1131 Back Bay Drive, Newport Beach. (949) 729-3863. www.newportdunes.com November 25: Lighting of Back Bay: Festivities include live musical performances by OC Song and Dance, and the Corona Del Mar High School Choir, a roaming magician, three puppet shows and a visit by Santa Claus who will flip a massive switch to illuminate dozens of floating “trees” and other holiday decoration on the water. There will also be screening of “Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” Plus, buildyour-own s’mores, cookies, hot cocoa and cider. Seafood chowder, hot dogs, chili and corn muffins for purchase. Friday, performances at 3 p.m.; Santa arrives at 5:30 p.m.; movie at 6 p.m. All activities are free. November 25-27: Polar Paradise: Kick off the holiday season at Newport Dunes with a weekend of family fun, including live perfor-
mances, Santa’s arrival and the lighting of the bay, movie screenings, ice and snow activities, a train ride and puppet shows. Friday - Sunday, visit their website for daily schedules. Guess What! Santa’s Coming! in Temecula November 25: 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. Friday, 6 p.m. Call for admission fee. Pennypickle’s Workshop, 42081 Main St., Temecula. (951) 308-6376. www.pennypickles.org • Food and Family Friday at Pretend City Children’s Museum November 25: Pretend City will be a great place to get away from all the Black Friday madness. They will be playing with Thanksgiving leftovers in the Real Cafe, dancing and singing to Turkey Songs in the City Park, and reading books about thankfulness in the Orange Plaza. Friday, check their website for schedule of activities. Included with admission. 29 Hubble, Irvine. (949) 4283900. www.pretendcity.org. See ad on page 50. Christmas Tribute to Charlie Brown in Brea November 26: Five-time Grammy nominee, world-class contemporary jazz pianist, composer and conductor, David Benoit and his quartet play the beloved holiday music made famous by Vince Guaraldi on the original Charlie Brown Christmas special. Making a special appearance will be the Brea Junior High School Choir. Saturday, 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. $18-36. Brea Curtis Theater, 1 Civic Center Circle, Brea. (714) 990-7722. www. curtistheatre.com Holiday Festival at Calico Ghost Town November 26: 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 Lightwire Theater Presents a Very Eclectic Christmas in Anaheim November 26: Follow the story of a young bird, named Max and his family, as they begin their journey south for the winter. When Max gets blown off course and ends up at the lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com
North Pole, his adventure begins! Dancing toy soldiers, caroling worms and performing poinsettias light up the stage in Lightwire Theater’s “A Very Electric Christmas.” Audiences of all ages will treasure this magical and captivating tale of family, friendship and hope set to timeless holiday hits, including Nat King Cole, Mariah Carey and Tchaikovsky. Saturday, 8 p.m. $29.50-42.50. 2200 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim. (714) 712-2700. www. citynationalgroveofanaheim.com Cardboard City at Kidspace November 26: Discover your inner architect! Build, play, and pretend to your imagination’s delight by turning ordinary cardboard into a collectively designed metropolis in the Kidspace Central Courtyard. They provide the cardboard and tools, and you provide the vision! Saturday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Included with admission. 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena. (626) 449-9144. www.kidspacemuseum.org
Lakeshore Learning’s Free Saturday Workshops November 26: Kids (3+) make skiers. 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 Mad Science Winter Workshop with Huntington Beach Recreation November 26 and December 17: Keep your brain from going into deep freeze this winter with a Mad Science Winter Workshop! Kids have a blast in three hours of science games and experiments to break up the ice and bring on the fun. Saturday, 9 a.m. - noon. $35, register through Huntington Beach Recreation. $5 materials fee due first day of class. Murdy Community Center. www.huntingtonbeachca.gov, www.westorangecounty.madscience.org Tree Lighting in Seal Beach November 26: Watch the annual tree light-
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.
• American Ballet Theatre Presents The Nutcracker in Costa Mesa December 9-18: An irresistible Southern California tradition returns as American Ballet Theatre and Segerstrom Center for the Arts present Alexei Ratmansky’s sumptuous production of The Nutcracker. A cast of more than 100 performers will take you on a dreamlike adventure, amid colorful, larger-thanlife scenery, dancing toy soldiers, mischievous mice, sparkling snowflakes, and a glittering Christmas tree! Audiences will be thrilled by ABT’s most celebrated dancers and delighted by sets and costumes by Tonywinning designer Richard Hudson as the ballet unfolds to Tchaikovsky’s beloved score. Wednesday - Sunday. Check the website for performance times and principal dancers, including Misty Copeland. 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa. (714) 556-2787. www. scfta.org. See ad on page 3. • Long Beach Ballet Presents The Nutcracker December 10-11 and 17-18: The 34th 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 worldclass 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. Performances held: Saturday, 2 and 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, 2 p.m. $34-78; VIP tickets, $115. Group discounts are available. Long Beach Terrace Theater, 300 E. Ocean Blvd., Long Beach. (877) 852-3177. www. longbeachnutcracker.com. See ad on page 11. The Nutcracker by Bob Baker Marionette Theater in LA November 13 - January 15: Featuring over 100 of Bob Baker’s famous marionettes, including all the characters: Clara and the Nutcracker Prince, the Sugarplum Fairy, the Mouse King, and many more. Saturday and Sunday, 2:30 p.m. Weekdays, 10:30 a.m. Reservations and ticket purchase available online, $20 per person. 1345 W. First St., Los Angeles. (213) 2509995. www.bobbakermarionettetheater.com The Nutcracker Ballet in Temecula November 25-27: Friday, 7 p.m.; Saturday, 2 and 7 p.m.; Sunday, 1 and 4 p.m. $18-22. 42051 Main St. (866) 653-8696. www.temeculatheater.org The Nutcracker in Rancho Cucamonga November 26-27 and December 3-4: Saturday, 2
ing with holiday activities. Saturday, 4-7 p.m. Eisenhower Park, Ocean and Main. (562) 7990179. www.sealbeachchamber.org Winter Village Festival in Sierra Madre November 26: 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. tinyurl.com/sierramadre2016 Tamale Festival of La Habra November 27: 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 booths. New this year will be the inclusion of the city’s holiday tree lighting ceremony. Sunday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Find a schedule of events and entertainment on their
and 7:30 p.m.; and Sunday, 2 p.m. Tickets start at $21. Lewis Family Playhouse, 12505 Cultural Center Drive. www.lewisfamilyplayhouse.com The Nutcracker at The Broad Stage November 26 - December 4: Days and times vary, visit their website for details and ticket purchase. $45. 1310 11th St., Santa Monica. (310) 828-2018. www.westsideballet.com/nutcracker The Nutcracker at the Music Center in LA November 26 and December 3: For kids ages 5-11. Saturday, 11 a.m. $22-26. Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave. (213) 972-7211. www.laphil.com The Nutcracker Ballet in Fullerton December 3-4: Saturday and Sunday, 6:30 p.m. $18-30. Plummer Auditorium, 201 E. Chapman Ave. www. tinyurl.com/nutcrackerfullerton The Nutcracker in Costa Mesa December 3: Saturday, 10 and 11:30 a.m. Try a musical instrument, meet the performers and enjoy musical arts and crafts during the Musical Playground at 9 a.m. and 12:15 p.m. $35-60. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 615 Town Center Drive. (714) 755-5799. www.pacificsymphony.org The Nutcracker in Newport Beach December 3: 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 The Nutcracker in Huntington Beach December 3-4 and 10-11: Saturday, 2 p.m. (December 10 only) and 7 p.m.; and Sunday, 2 p.m. $20-30. Huntington Beach High School, 1905 Main St. (714) 902-9423. www.balletetudes.com
website. Free to attend. (562) 383-4211. www. lahabracity.com/677/tamale-festival Tree Lighting in La Habra November 27: 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 Hollywood Christmas Parade in Los Angeles November 27: The Hollywood Christmas Parade celebrates with Santa, marching bands, celebrities and more. Olivia Newton-John is the marshall in this year’s parade. The U-shaped parade route starts at Hollywood and Orange and travels east to Vine, south on Vine to Sunset Boulevard and west on Sunset, back to Orange. Sunday, 6 p.m. Grandstand tickets are available on TicketMaster. www.thehollywoodchristmasparade.com
story in rhyme, about looking past physical differences to appreciate the person (or dragon) underneath. George and Blaise are pen pals, and they write letters to each other about everything: their pets, birthdays, favorite sports, and science fair projects. There’s just one thing that the two friends don’t know: George is a human, while Blaise is a dragon! What will happen when these pen pals finally meet face-to-face? Sunday, 1-32 p.m. Free to attend. 5535 E. Spring St., Long Beach. (562) 208-5862. www. gatsbybooks.com Messiah Sing-Along at Nixon Library November 27: Tune up your voices for the annual Handel’s Messiah Sing-Along. Sunday, two performances, call for times. Free. 18001 Yorba Linda Blvd., Yorba Linda. (714) 993-5075. www. nixonfoundation.org/sunday-concerts
various vendors and enjoy German food and gluhwein. Plus, live entertainment and family quality time. Sunday. 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. 7561 Center Ave., Huntington Beach. (714) 8958020. www.oldworld.ws Patchwork Indie Art & Craft Festival in Santa Ana November 27: Fun family shopping with over 100 vendors displaying their handmade goods, plus kids’ arts and crafts, food trucks and music. Sunday, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Free admission and parking. 2nd at Sycamore Street, Santa Ana. www.dearhandmadelife.com
Dear Dragon Story Time and Crafts at Gatsby Books in Long Beach November 27: A sweet and clever friendship
German Christmas Market and Boutique at Old World German Village November 27: Now at Old World, shop at
• Sensory Sensitive Holidays at Pretend City Children’s Museum November 28: Holidays often mean a change in schedules, a houseful of people, loud holiday songs, hustle and bustle, and sights and smells that can be overwhelming to some children. Take a break today as Pretend City creates a sensory-sensitive environment in their
The Nutcracker by the Los Angeles Ballet December 3-24: December 3-4, Alex Theater, Glendale; December 10-11, Dolby Theater, Hollywood; December 16-18, Royce Hall, UCLA; and December 22-24, Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center. Ticket prices vary by venue. www.losangelesballet.org/the-nutcracker
select Regal Theaters nationwide. Visit the website for locations and times. www.regmovies.com
College, 16007 Crenshaw Blvd. (310) 329-5345. www.southbayballet.org
The Nutcracker at Huntington Beach Library December 13-14: Tuesday - Thursday, 4 and 7 p.m. performances. $5 per person. 7111 Talbert Ave. (714) 375-5107. www.hbpl.org
The Nutcracker in Downey December 17-18: Saturday, 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, 2:30 p.m. $25-29. Downey Theater, 8435 Firestone Blvd. (562) 861-821. www.downeytheatre.org/event
The Nutcracker with American Girl in LA December 4: Sunday, 11 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. $70 per person; reservations required. 189 The Grove Drive. (877) 247-5223. www.americangirl.com The Nutcracker at Kidspace Museum in LA December 4: Sunday, 1 p.m. Included with admission. 480 N. Arroyo Blvd. (626) 449-9144. www. kidspacemuseum.org Winter Fantasy and Nutcracker in Long Beach December 10-11: Saturday, noon, 3 and 6 p.m.; and Sunday, noon and 3 p.m. $12-18. Millikan High School, 2800 Snowden Ave. (562) 594-5818. www. impactdancecenter.com The Nutcracker in Glendale December 10-11: Saturday, 2 and 7 p.m.; and Sunday, 2 p.m. $25-45. The Alex Theatre, 216 N. Brand Blvd. (818) 243-2539. www.redchairproductions.org The Nutcracker in San Pedro December 10-11: Saturday, 2 and 7 p.m.; Sunday, 2 p.m. $19-39. 478 W. 6th St.. (310) 548-2493. www. grandvision.org The Nutcracker at the Irvine Barclay Theater December 10-24: Visit their website for show times. $42-55. 4242 Campus Drive. (949) 854-4646. www.thebarclay.org The Nutcracker at Regal Theaters December 11: From the Bolshoi Ballet in Moscow to
The Nutcracker in Mission Viejo December 15-18: Thursday and Friday, 7 p.m.; Saturday, 2 and 7 p.m.; and Sunday, 1 and 6 p.m. $2226. Saddleback College, 28000 Marguerite Pkwy. (949) 582-4656. www.lagunadancetheatre.com Great Russian Nutcracker at the Wiltern December 16-17: Friday, 7 p.m.; Saturday, 1 and 5 p.m. Tickets start at $30. 3790 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles. www.nutcracker.com The Hot Chocolate Nutcracker in LA December 16-17: Starring Debbie Allen, Raven Symone and many more! 135 N. Grand Ave. (213) 9727211. www.musiccenter.org/hotchocolate The Nutcracker by the Anaheim Ballet December 17: Saturday, 2 and 7 p.m. $25-50. City National Grove of Anaheim, 2200 E. Katella Ave. (714) 712-2700. www.anaheimballet.org The Nutcracker in Huntington Beach December 17-18: Saturday, 7 p.m.; and Sunday, 2 p.m. $18-25. Coast City Ballet, 1905 Main St. (714) 963-9771. www.coastcityballet.com The Nutcracker in Torrance December 17-18: Saturday and Sunday, 2 p.m. Adults, $34; kids (12 and younger), $24. El Camino
The Nutcracker in Fullerton December 17 and 18: Saturday, 8 p.m.; and Sunday, 2 p.m. $28-35. The Nouveau Chamber Ballet at Fullerton College Campus Theatre, 321 E. Chapman Ave. (714) 526-3862. www.nouveauchamberballet.com The Ultimate Nutcracker Experience in Irvine December 17-19: Saturday, 2 and 7 p.m.; Sunday, 3 p.m., and Monday, 6:30 p.m. $26-30. Northwood Performing Arts Theatre, 4415 Portola Pkwy., Irvine. (888) 718-4253. www.mapleconservatory.com The Nutcracker in Calabasas December 19-20: Saturday, 2 and 7 p.m.; and Sunday, 12:30 and 5 p.m. $20-30. Performing Arts Education Center, 22855 Mulholland Hwy. (818) 3479938. www.californiadanceacademy.com
Author Event at the Storymakery in Irvine December 2: Hang out with a renowned author, Henry Herz. He’ll speak about his books and tips on becoming an author. After, Storymakery leads a workshop on how to create a storybook. Friday, 6:30 p.m. Free to attend; option to purchase a signed copy of Henry’s book and the storybook your child creates. 825 Spectrum Center Drive, Irvine. (949) 396-1840. www.storymakery.com
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(714) 997-5283
Must present coupon to cashier. Void 1/10/17
175 N Wayfield St, Orange, CA 92867 WWW.HOLIDAYSKATE.COM
city. You can expect: dimmed lights and minimal sounds, and a sensitive Santa photo opportunity. Don’t miss this autism-friendly museum environment designed for children who benefit from less stimulation. Reservations required. 29 Hubble, Irvine. (949) 428-3900. www.pretendcity.org. See ad on page 50. Tree Lighting Ceremony in Artesia November 30: Join the community of Artesia for a tree lighting ceremony with Santa Claus, games and treats for kids. Wednesday, 5:30-8:30 p.m. Free. Artesia Park, 18750 Clarkdale Ave., Artesia. (562) 860-3361. www.cityofartesia.us Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony in Signal Hill December 1: 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. Thursday, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Discovery Well Park, 2200 Temple Ave., Signal Hill. (562) 9897330. www.cityofsignalhill.org Snowy Crafts in Corona Del Mar December 1: Get ready for winter with snowthemed crafts for kids (3-8). Thursday, 3-4 p.m.
14 kidsguide holiday guide 2016
Corona Del Mar Branch Library, 420 Marigold Ave., Newport Beach. (949) 644-3075. www. newportbeachlibrary.org La Virgen de Guadalupe in Los Angeles December 1-2: A 14-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 The Polar Bear Express Pajama Story Time at Barnes and Noble Locations December 2: All aboard! Kids go in their PJs and join a magical evening with the Barnes and Noble annual Polar Express Story Time. Coloring and activities to follow, including writing a Dear Santa letter. Friday, 7 p.m. Free to attend. 901-B South Coast Drive, Costa Mesa. 7881 Edinger Ave. #110, Huntington Beach. 6326 E. Pacific Coast Hwy., Long Beach. www.barnesandnoble.com
Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony in Bellflower December 2: 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 listen to holiday wishes. Plus, a rink for scooters and skates (children are encouraged to wear a helmet to enter the rink) and holiday crafts. Refreshments will be served. Friday, 6:30 p.m. Friendship Square, 16559 Bellflower Blvd., Bellflower. (562) 8041424, Ext. 2261. www.bellflower.org Jake Shimabukuro Performs the Ukulele December 2: When a YouTube clip of Jake Shimabukuro’s performance of “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” went viral, the ukulele sensation’s career skyrocketed, landing him on the Billboard World Album Chart several times and leading to collaborations with Bette Midler, Yo-Yo Ma, Ziggy Marley, and Chris Botti. 12700 Center Court Drive. (562) 4678819. www.cerritoscenter.com Little Naturalists Presents Flower the Skunk in Newport Beach December 2: Kids (3-5) and their parent or guardian read “Big Tracks, Little Tracks,” track the center’s own Flower the Skunk, and make animal tracks. Little Naturalist programs are outdoor experiential education classes designed for 3-5 year olds and their adult guardians. Thursday, 9:30-10:30 a.m. $5-8, preregistration required. Environmental Nature Center, 1601 E. 16th St., Newport Beach. (949) 6458489. www.encenter.org Ugly Sweater Workshop at Fashion Camp OC December 2, 3, and 10: Kids (7+) learn to hand sew a one-of-a-kind ugly holiday sweater for the season. All materials included. Visit their website for days and times. $39. 2477 Park Ave., Tustin. (714) 2590946. www.tustin.createdesignsew.com Tree Lighting in Hawaiian Gardens December 2: Join the City of Hawaiian Gardens for caroling, refreshments, entertainment, 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) 4202641. www.hgcity.org Christmas Tree Lighting in Mission Viejo December 2: Ring in the holiday cheer with a perlots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com
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Parties • Boy & Girl Scout Activities At-School Classes • Field Trips Adult Classes & Corporate Cooking Events 949-679-8390 • www.lilchefschool.com 15435 Jeffrey Road, #132, Irvine formance by Accelr 8 Ballet Company with Pave School of Performing Arts. Plus, hot cocoa and baked goods available for purchase. Friday 6-8 p.m. Free to attend. 27741 Crown Valley Pkwy., Mission Viejo. www.gokaleidoscope.com/events
Christmas Tree Lighting in Tustin December 2: 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
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 dropoff site of the Toys for Tots toy donation drive through December 18, so bring toy donations to the event. Friday, 4-6 p.m. Free admission and parking. This event is free with free parking on the cemetery grounds. Woodlawn Cemetery, Mausoleum and Mortuary, 1847 14th St., Santa Monica. (310) 4587-8717. www.smgov.net Family Fossil Day in Buena Park December 3: Families (6+) 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. - 12:30 p.m.; meet at the amphitheatre. Parking, $5. The Ralph B. Clark Park and Interpretive Center, 8800 Rosecrans Ave., Buena Park. (714) 9733170. www.ocparks.com Holiday Treats for the Aquarium’s Animals December 3-4: In celebration of the holiday season, diver Santa delivers an ocean of gifts to the Aquarium of the Pacific’s sea otters, seals, sea lions, birds, fish, and other animals. Families enjoy holiday music, crafts, special presentations, unique photo opportunities, shopping and more. The Seal and Sea Lion Habitat will be decked out for the “season” with frozen “fishmas” treats. Guests can watch the sea otters savor candy-cane shaped 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 members. 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach. (562) 590-3100. www.aquariumofpacific.org
• Polar Express Pajama Party at Muzeo in Anaheim Free Holiday Movies Screening on the USS Iowa in San Pedro December 2 and 10: Polar Express Pajama Parties December 2, 9 and 16: Bundle up and join a at Muzeo are fun-filled events that include: admisfree evening of fun! Screened outdoors in front sion to Muzeo Express, viewing of the holiday faof the historic ship. Friday, 6 p.m. December 2: vorite, Polar Express, hot cocoa, snacks and crafts. How the Grinch Stole Christmas. December 9: The new Muzeo Express (open through January Hot Wheels Garage Event in El Segundo Elf. December 16: Frozen. Free. Limited seat8), made up of both new and vintage model trains, December 3: Family-friendly fun at the next ing is available on a first-come, first-served celebrates trains and their importance in CaliforHot Wheels event. See life-sized custom basis. Guests Guide are encouraged to dresscheck appro- one Hot nia history, including themed of California Wheels cars and play with Hot Wheels his is a proof of your ad that willlayouts appear in Kidsguide’s Holiday 2016. Please of the priately, bring jackets, blankets and outdoor landmarks as well as a vintage department store tracks. Enter the raffle to win prizes. Plus, following boxesKids, and$15; faxadults, or mail the SIGNED proof will form chairs. Concessions beASAP. available, no coolwindow sponsored by Macy’s. face-painting, balloon animals, $2 ice cream ers or outside food and beverages allowed. 250 $10; member adults, free. Drop-offs welcome. sundaes, and photos with Santa Claus. SatS. Harbor Blvd., San Pedro. (877) 446-9261. Recommended for ages 5-12. Children under 5 urday, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Donation suggested: [ ] I approve of my ad with the corrections marked www.pacificbattleship.com must be accompanied by an adult. Friday, DeAdults, $10; kids (11-17), $5; kids (10 and [ ] I approve of my ad without corrections cember 2, 5:30-8:30 p.m. Sunday, December 10, under), free. 610 Lairport St., El Segundo. Tree of Life and Holiday Open House 9 a.m. - noon. 241 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim. www.automobiledrivingmuseum.org _________________________________________ DateCemetery _____________________________ at Woodlawn (714) 956-8936. www.muzeo.org/tickets. See ad December 2: Features performances by the on page 55. Bank of America Patrons John Adams Middle School Choir, an “ugly holiReceive Free Admission to Museums You are Seal 100% responsible for proofreading your ad. Remember to double-check phone numbers, addresses, day sweater” contest, a holiday movie, light reBeach Christmas and Holiday Parade December 3-4: Bank of America is helping its mailPlus, it backcustomers to us as soon as ling. If youDecember have any2:corrections, please mark them freshments clearly onand thisphotos proofwith andSanta fax or Claus. Holiday parade along Main become “cultured” through their Street includes proof a visit for from Santa. Friday, 7 will send you a revised approval. Our policy is to send one revised proof at no charge. Additional changes program “Museums on Us,” giving bank cardp.m. Main St., Seal Beach. (562) 799-0179. holders free admission to cultural venues in e (minimum $25). www.sealbeachca.gov Southern California. Photo ID and a valid Bank
Petsguide • FAX: 562.799-0142 • PHONE: 562-799-0140 10313 Los Alamitos Blvd. • Los Alamitos, CA 90720
16 kidsguide holiday guide 2016
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WINTER FUN STARTS HERE! • Extended Skate Sessions with Festive Decorations & Music December 24 - January 7
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Snow Days Snow Los Angeles at Elysian Park Through December 23: Snow Los Angeles is a nineacre winter wonderland, with over 10,000 square feet of downhill snow tubing lanes, plus a blizzard every hour and a giant snowman forest light show. Stop for a snow globe photo op with the family, and warm up with hot chocolate and apple cider. Thursday - Sunday, 4:30-10:30 p.m. $12-45; free parking. The Old Lodge - Montecillo De Leo Politi. Stadium Way and Scott Ave., Los Angeles. www.snowlosangeles.com Polar Paradise at Newport Dunes November 25-27: 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, ice and snow activities, a train ride and puppet shows. Friday - Sunday, check their website for daily schedules. Free event parking Friday and Saturday. 1131 Back Bay Drive, Newport Beach. (949) 729-3863. www.newportdunes.com Winter Village Festival in Sierra Madre November 26: 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 Christmas at Mission San Juan Capistrano December 3: Celebrate the holidays with Mission San Juan Capistrano! Held in conjunction with the city’s annual tree lighting ceremony and communitywide 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, 5:308 p.m. Adults, $6; kids (4-11), $4. 26801 Ortega Hwy. (949) 234-1300. www.missionsjc.com Nutcracker Holiday Village and Tree Lighting in Anaheim December 3: Ring in the holidays with a tree lighting celebration, snow play, train rides, shopping and more! Free pictures with Santa from 2-4:30 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. - 5:30 p.m. Free. Downtown Anaheim, Center St. Promenade and Lemon St. (714) 956-3586. www. downtownanaheim.com/tree-lighting Winter Wonderland at the Plaza in Los Alamitos December 3: 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, a make-and-take mini sewing project as well as a fashion show (both presented by The Sewing Lab), refreshments and entertainment. Saturday, 4-7:30 p.m. Free admission. 10961 Reagan St., Los Alamitos. (562) 430-1073. www.cityoflosalamitos.org
Santa Arrival and Snow Play in Anaheim November 29: Join Anaheim Town Square for Santa’s arrival. Plus, play in real snow, make crafts, visit and take photos with Santa, enjoy face painting, a balloon artist, train rides, and holiday shopping, plus enter gift card drawings. Sunday, noon - 3 p.m. Free admission. Anaheim Town Square, 2180 E Lincoln Ave. (714) 956-3411. www.anaheimtownsquare.com Garden Grove Family Winterfest December 3: Bring the family and join the fun! The 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 from 4-7:15 p.m. Plus, inflatables, carnival games, train rides, music and crafts. Saturday, 4-7:30 p.m. $10 per person, limited tickets available only by pre-sale through December 2 at Garden Grove City Hall. Atlantis Play Center, 13630 Atlantis Way, Garden Grove. (714) 741-5200. www.ci.garden-grove.ca.us Snow Wonderland in Anaheim December 4: Play in over 25 tons of snow for families. There will be live entertainment, free hot chocolate, crafts and giveaways. Sunday, noon 4 p.m. 1440 S. Anaheim Blvd. (714) 999-0888. www.anaheimindoormarketplace.com Snow Day at Irvine Spectrum December 10: Located in Edwards Court and hosted by Active Ride Shop, kids join in on some snowy fun and learn to snowboard on a mini hill, while older kids participate on a larger snow hill. Enjoy an afternoon of fun and meet Wild Wing and the Power Players from the Anaheim Ducks too! Saturday, noon - 4 p.m. Free to
attend. Edwards Courtyard, 71 Fortune Drive, Irvine. www.shopirvinespectrumcenter.com Winter Family Festival in Studio City December 11: Kids slide, build and play in more than 70 tons of snow while they get into the holiday spirit! This free 6th annual event also features music, crafts and restaurant samples at “A Taste of the Holidays.” Sunday, 1-4 p.m. Free admission. Guests are encouraged to bring canned and packaged food (no glass please); new, unwrapped toys; baby diapers, wipes, formula, and other supplies; pet beds and other supplies; new or gently-used children’s books (K-12), and clothing and blankets to donate for the holidays. 12621 Rye St., Studio City. (818) 769-4415. www.studiocityresidents.org Winter Fest OC in Costa Mesa December 16 - January 1: Winter Fest is coming to town, blowing tons of family fun into the OC Fair and Event Center. Winter Fest features a full outdoor ice rink, 130-foot, six-lane Snowflake Summit ice slide, a new-for-2016 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. An entirely new Festival of Lights walk-through holiday light show features more than two million sparkling lights. Daily, check the website for times. $15-30. 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa. www.winterfestoc.com • Winter Wonderfest at Discovery Cube OC and LA December 17 - January 8: Snow and science fun combine at Discovery Cube this winter with a wonderland of attractions! Learn the science behind sledding down ice ramps and how snow is formed, then put your knowledge into action with real sledding and snow play. Activities include tubing down a 75-foot snow ramp, snow sledding, weather learning stations and a snow-play area. Orange County, 2500 N. Main St., Santa Ana, (714) 542-2823. Los Angeles, 11800 Foothill Blvd., Sylmar, (818) 686-2823. www.discoverycube.org. See ad on page 5. Winter in Willmore at Drake Park December 17: Enjoy sledding and snow play, holiday lights, treats, crafts and pictures with Santa! In the spirit of the season, please bring a can of food to donate. Saturday, 1-6 p.m. Free. 951 Maine Ave., Long Beach. (562) 659-9455. www. willmorecity.org 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. Monday - Friday, 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Included with museum admission. 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena. (626) 449-9144. www.kidspacemuseum.org
NOW OPEN Jan. 8th thru
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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 Museum, The Living Desert, Discovery Science Center (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 “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” Story Time at Barnes and Noble December 3: “Grow Your Heart three Sizes!” and celebrate all things Grinch with a reading of the classic. Collect a good deed badge and track booklet to log all the good things this holiday season. Activities to follow. Saturday, 11 a.m. Free to attend. 901 B South Coast Drive, Costa Mesa. 6326 E. Pacific Coast Hwy., Long Beach www.barnesandnoble.com Belmont Shore’s Annual Christmas Parade December 3: The Belmont Shore Christmas Parade takes place on East 2nd Street 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 “A Candyland Christmas.” Saturday, 6-9 p.m. Free to spectate. 2nd St., Long Beach. (562) 4343066. www.belmontshore.org Candy Caneland and Craft Faire in Buena Park December 3: An annual holiday carnival with games and Santa, plus holiday craft and food booths. Saturday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. 8150 Knott Ave., Buena Park. (714) 562-3860. www.buenapark.com Redwood Grove Hike in Carbon Canyon Regional Park December 3: Join OC Parks’ trained staff on an easy 1.1-mile hike to the park’s Coastal Redwood grove. 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, 8:30-10 a.m. Free; parking, $5. Participants should bring water, sunscreen, 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/carboncanyon Breakfast with Santa in La Habra December 3-4: 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 20 kidsguide holiday guide 2016
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 Father/Daughter and Mother/Son Math Maze Game Tournament in Carson December 3: Kids (grades 3-8) and their parents join Math Maze and compete for trophies and prizes. Math Maze brings a fresh awareness wherein the student becomes the teacher, there is discovery leading to laughter and sheer fun. Saturday, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Register on site. Carson Community Center Adult Activity Room, 3 Civic Plaza Drive, Carson. www.mathmaze.us • Young Explorer Program in Downey December 3: Kids (3-5) 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 admission. 12400 Columbia Way, Downey. (562) 231-1200. www.columbiaspacescience.org. Also see Columbia Memorial Space Center’s Saturday Science on page 4. See ad on page 51. A Civil War Christmas in Wilmington December 3-4: 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. 1052 Banning Blvd., Wilmington. (310) 548-7509. www.drumbarracks.org Festival of Trees in Yorba Linda December 3: Free event for the entire family. Enjoy photos with Santa, a kids’ area, games and crafts, vendors and entertainment, plus food trucks. Saturday, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Free. 16850 Bastenchury Road, Yorba Linda. (714) 9862380. www.tinyurl.com/feistvaloftrees2016 Tree Lighting Festivities in Fountain Valley December 3: 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. 16400 Brookhurst St., Fountain Valley. (714) 839-8611. www.fountainvalley.org Winter Market in Fullerton December 3: Enjoy live holiday entertainment,
free pictures with Santa, holiday shopping at vendor and food booths, face painting and a bounce house. Bring a new, unwrapped toy for the Spark of Love toy drive, sponsored by Fullerton firefighters. Saturday, noon - 4 p.m. Free admission. Downtown Plaza, Fullerton. (714) 738-6545. www.cityoffullerton.com Victorian Christmas at Heritage Hill December 3: Relive the holiday customs of yesteryear for the last time at Heritage Hill’s 35th and final Victorian Christmas. The park’s four historic buildings will be festively decorated for the season with live music, dance performances, local craft vendors, and food for purchase. Bring your Christmas list and visit with Santa. Enjoy hands-on activities including Christmas ornament and card making, candle dipping, butter churning, Victorian-inspired crafts and games, and cookie decorating with Mrs. Claus. Saturday, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Admission, $5. 25151 Serrano Road, Lake Forest. (949) 9232230. www.ocparks.com/historic/heritage Holiday Lamplight Celebration in Los Angeles December 3-4: Tours begin 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) 2252700. www.heritagesquare.org Tree Trimming Party and Puppet Show in Huntington Beach December 3: Join Huntington Beach Library’s annual tree decorating party. This year features a performance by the Luce Puppet Company, called “Wacky Winter Adventure.” Kids also make an ornament and visit Santa during the event! Saturday, either 10-10:45 puppet show with 11 a.m. ornament making session, or ornament making, 10-10:45 a.m. with the puppet show at 11 a.m. Tickets, $4 each. The puppet show is held in the Tabby Theater, ornament making is in the Talbert Room at the Central Library, 7111 Talbert, Huntington Beach. (714) 3755107. www.hbpl.org Candy Cane Capers In Huntington Beach December 3: Kids (5-12) sing carols, make holiday crafts, play games, have snack time, watch a movie and visit with Santa. A great time for parents and caregivers to do holiday shopping without the kiddos. Saturday, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. $10 per person, plus $10 material fee. Attendance is limited; register early. Murdy Community Center, 7000 Norma Drive, Huntington Beach. (714) 960-8884. www.huntingtonbeachca.gov lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com
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Indoor Playgrounds Indoor playgrounds offering play equipment with unique features. Parties, family sessions, scout/group programs, open play, camps and parents’ night out may be offered. Check websites for discounts and special days. AdventurePlex - 1701 Marine Ave., Manhattan Beach. (310) 546-7708. www.adventureplex.org Billy Beez - Anaheim Garden Walk, 400 W. Disney Way. (657) 242-2430. www.billybeezus.com BounceU - Huntington Beach, (714) 892-4842; and Orange, (714) 744-JUMP. www.bounceu.com/ orange. www.bounceu.com/huntingtonbeach Frogg’s Bounce House - 16121 Brookhurst St., Fountain Valley. (714) 418-0442. www.froggsbouncehouse.com Jump N’ Jammin - 27741 Crown Valley Pkwy., Mission Viejo. (949) 582-5890. www.jumpnjammin.com Kid Concepts U.S.A. - 22844 Hawthorne Blvd., Torrance. (310) 465-0075. www.kidconceptsusa.com Oodles’ Kids Gymnastics Academy - 19101 Bloomfield Ave., Cerritos. (562) 888-1496. www.oodlesusa.com Playland Cafe - 880 Roosevelt, Irvine. (949) 8292789. www.playlandcafe.com Pump it Up - Anaheim Hills, (714) 693-9663; Huntington Beach, (714) 847-9663; Irvine, (949) 261-7867; Lake Forest, (949) 3821231; and Torrance, (310) 533-9377. www. pumpitupparty.com
Pumper Jumpers - 160 E. Imperial Hwy., Fullerton. (714) 265-7121. www.pumperjumpers.com Scooter’s Jungle - Placentia, (714) 223-5730; and Aliso Viejo, (949) 349-9090. www.scootersjungle.com Seascape Kids Fun - 4771 Hunter Ave., Anaheim. (714) 970-7100. www.seascapekidsfun.com Jumping Fun Kids - 7501 Commonwealth Ave., Buena Park. (714) 787-4994. www.jumpingfunkids.com Twinkle Twinkle Kids Cafe - 2065 Palos Verdes Drive, Lomita. (310) 530-4535. www.kidscafetwinkle.com We Play Loud - 24350 Swartz Drive, Lake Forest. (949) 328-9616. www.weplayloud.com Trampoline parks: Big Air Trampoline Parks, Buena Park, 8320 On The Mall, (844) 550-JUMP; Laguna Hills, 23251 Avenida de la Carlota, (949) 3059788; Redlands, 1101 California St., (909) 335-7275. www.bigairusa.com GetAir, 5142 Argosy Ave., Huntington Beach, (714) 916-5815, www.getairsurfcity.com Rockin’ Jump, 1411 S. Village Way, Santa Ana, (714) 249-7676. www.sna.rockinjump.com Sky High Sports, 2970 Airway Ave., Costa Mesa, (714) 437-5867. www.ocy.jumpskyhigh.com Sky Zone, 1301 N. Kellogg Drive, Anaheim, (714) 693-0250. www.skyzone.com
Chili Holiday Celebration and Tree Lighting in La Mirada December 3: Santa spreads holiday cheer as guests enjoy live entertainment, crafts and games. Free chili, hot dogs, warm drinks and cookies will be served. Keepsake photos with Santa and train rides will be available for a small fee. Families may also participate in the holiday wreath auction. Nonperishable food items and unwrapped toys will be collected to support local families in need. Saturday, 5-8 p.m. Free. Splash! 13806 La Mirada Blvd., La Mirada. (562) 902-3191. www.cityoflamirada.org Christmas Tree Lighting in Laguna Niguel December 3: 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? In the back of the lot, there will be two inflatables, please thank the YMCA, they’re quite conversational. 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 Breakfast and Brunch with Santa in Lake Forest December 3: 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, 8:3010:30 a.m. or 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. $8 per person; kids (2 and under) are free; preregistration required, no tickets at the door. Lake Forest Community Center, 25550 Commercentre Drive, Lake Forest. (949) 461-3450. www.lakeforestca.gov Lakeshore Learning’s Free Saturday Workshops December 3: Kids (3+) craft a polar bear. 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/freecrafts4kids Annual Community Christmas Tree Decorating and Lighting In Long Beach December 3: Join holiday fun with tree decorating, caroling, free arts and crafts, and a kids photo booth with Santa. Plus, make and decorate cookies, cards, wreaths, ornaments and door hangers. Saturday, activities and photos
22 kidsguide holiday guide 2016
lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com
RUN AWAY TO THE CIRCUS!
Join Chuckles, Giggles, and Snickers the clowns for fun, laughs & excitement in our very own indoor Big Top Show THE CIRQUE MAGIQUE!
Enjoy a delicious brunch as our circus performers from around the world entertain you with their interactive, magical and hilariously funny acts!
For Prices, Showtimes & Reservations W W W.CI RQU EM AGIQU E SHOW.COM
A Rawhide Country Christmas at Rawhide Ranch in Bonsall December 3-4 and 10-11: 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 an arts and crafts fair. Saturday and Sunday, 3-8 p.m. Free admission, minimal fee for activities and BBQ dinner. Parking, $10. 6987 W. Lilac Road, Bonsall. (760) 758-0083. www. rawhidechristmas.com Tamale Festival in Indio December 3-4: 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. The event was ranked among the top 10 “All-American Food Festivals” in the nation by the Food Channel! Saturday, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Free admission. Downtown Indio. Corner of Miles and Oasis, Indio. (760) 832-8620, Ext. 46. www.tamalefestival.net
begin at 3 p.m.; tree lighting at 5 p.m. Pet photos at Uptown Dog Park, from 2-3 p.m. Free to attend; minimal fee for photos. Sherer Park, 4600 Long Beach Blvd., Long Beach. (562) 570-1674. www.tinyurl.com/2016tree Make a Christmas Ornament at Lowe’s December 3: Kids build their own wooden Christmas ornaments and get a free apron, goggles and patch. Saturday, 10 a.m. Free, registration required. Find your nearest location and register on their website. www. lowesbuildandgrow.com
be available to visit and take pictures with kids. The Long Beach community can help by attending Santa’s Breakfast with the proceeds benefitting Miller’s Children Hospital. Saturday, 8-11 a.m. Adults, $10; kids (12 and under), $7. Breakfast includes bacon, eggs, potatoes, muffins, coffee, tea and orange juice. Reservation required by phone. 435 Shoreline Village Drive, Long Beach. (562) 432-6500. www.parkerslighthouse.com
Gingerbread Houses at Michaels December 3: Kids construct a gingerbread house and try to resist the temptation to snack on building supplies. Buy a Wilton gingerbread kit and the supplies are included. Saturday, 1-3 p.m. Visit their website for locations; call for gingerbread kit price. www.michaels.com
Piecemakers Christmas Village Event in Costa Mesa December 3: A whimsical holiday event in a quaint village setting, the fair features over 70 artists with hand-crafted treasures, antiques and collectibles, plus kids’ activities, stage entertainment and great food booths. Saturday, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Free admission and parking. 1720 Adams Ave., Costa Mesa. (714) 6413112. www.piecemakers.com
Kids Club Sprout Stockings at Michaels December 3: Kids (3+) make a Sprout Stocking. Saturday, 10 a.m. - noon. Parent or guardian must remain on the premises. $2, includes supplies. www.michaels.com
Creation Station at Rancho Los Cerritos December 3: Enjoy old-fashioned fun and crafts for kids ages 6-10. Saturday, 1-4 p.m. Free. 4600 Virginia Road, Long Beach. (562) 206-2040. www.rancholoscerritos.org
Santa’s Breakfast at Parker’s Lighthouse in Long Beach December 3: Santa arrives by yacht and will 24 kidsguide holiday guide 2016
Duck the Halls Family Parties in Tustin December 3, 10 and 17: 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 included. Saturday, 2-4 p.m. 2961 El Camino Real, Tustin. (714) 7304124. www.shopthemarketplace.com Explore the Bay Family Hike in Newport December 3 and 17: An easy way for families of all ages to learn more about Upper Newport Bay and enjoy the trails around it with an informal talk by a ranger. The hike will last approximately one hour on paved and dirt trails, with some stairs. Bring sun protection and water. Meet on the patio of the Muth Interpretive Center. Saturday, 10:30 a.m. Free. 2301 University Drive, Newport Beach. (949) 9232290. www.ocparks.com/parks/newport Holiday Afloat Boat Parade at the USS Iowa December 3: Watch the Los Angeles Harbor Holiday Afloat boat parade while sitting on the historic wood decks of Battleship Iowa. More than 50 vessels of all shapes and sizes will participate in this annual event including powerboats, sailboats, tall ships and harbor-working craft. The parade approximately runs 90 minutes. Saturday, 6-9 p.m. $12 per person. 250 S. Harbor Blvd., San Pedro. (877) 446-9261. www.pacificbattleship.com lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com
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Boys & Girls Clubs of Huntington Valley
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Open the door to winter fun!
e WINTER BREAK p w
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Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:30am - 6:00pm Dates: December 19-30, 2016, closed 12/26 Rates: $95/Week 1, $80/Week 2, or $32/day
3 locations
Optional hot lunches and fun field trips and special events are available every day! Call your local branch for more information.
HUNTINGTON BEACH 2309 Delaware Street • 714-374-2600
FOUNTAIN VALLEY 16582 Brookhurst Street • 714-531-2582
Golden West College Campus 15645 Gothard St • 714-899-5900
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Breakfast with Santa in Westminster December 3: 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 24th Annual Holiday Sonata in Whittier December 3: 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 American Girl Welcomes Santa in LA December 4: 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. Sunday, 9-10 a.m. $25 per person; reservations required. 189 The Grove Drive, Los Angeles. (877) 247-5223. www.americangirl.com LA Opera Youth Auditions in LA December 4: Be a part of LA Opera’s Community Opera production of Noah’s Flood. The team is looking for youth and adult performers (actors, dancers, singers—anyone over age 11 is invited to participate. The LA Opera production will feature a cast and chorus of nearly 500 from Los Angeles-area community groups. Attend either workshop to join the production: Tuesday, 4-8 p.m. or Sunday, 1-5 p.m. Performances are set for May 6 at Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels. Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, 135 N. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. (213) 9723157. www.laopera.org/community-opera Radio City Christmas Spectacular in Fullerton December 4: Art of Dance and Ballet Academy presents its holiday program, the Radio City Christmas Spectacular. Sunday, 1 and 4 p.m. $15. El Dorado Performing Arts Center, 1651 Valencia Ave., Placentia. (714) 630-3323. www.adbacademy.com Orange County Walk Now for Autism Speaks December 4: 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 26 kidsguide holiday guide 2016
Victorian Christmas at the Bembridge House in Long Beach December 4: 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, a garden boutique and Christmas caroling by the South Coast Chorale singers. Sunday, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. $10; kids (10 and under), free. RSVP required. 953 Park Circle, Long Beach. www.lbheritage.org
all sorts of intergalactic holiday lovers. Led by author and space food connoisseur Kim Adelman. Sunday, 11 a.m. Free; parking $6. 10899 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles. (310) 915-0200. www.hammer.ucla.edu
Winter Solstice Festival at Bowers Museum December 4: Join the procession from downtown or Saint Joseph church to Bowers at 11 a.m. Enjoy a guitar ensemble folkloric, and Aztec dancers starting at noon. Sample Mexican bread and hot chocolate (while supplies last). Sunday, 11 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. 1802 N. Main St., Santa Ana. (714) 5673600. www.bowers.org
Holiday Parade and Pier Lighting in Huntington Beach December 4: Light up the Huntington Pier and snowflakes on Main Street with a children’s holiday parade featuring Mr. and Mrs. Claus, performances, and 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 the nonprofit Huntington Beach Youth Shelter, a “safe haven” for homeless, runaway, abused and at-risk youth. Sunday, see schedule on their website. Huntington Beach Pier Plaza. Huntington Beach Pier. (714) 960-9276. www.cspinc.org
Target Free First Sunday Festival of Lights in La Habra December 4: Celebrate international festivals of lights, including Diwali, Hanukkah and Las Posadas. *A total of 500 people are admitted on Target Free Sundays. Session times are 1-2:45 and 3:15-5 p.m. 301 S. Euclid St., La Habra. (562) 383-4236. www.lhcm.org Corona Del Mar Christmas Walk December 4: The Corona Del Mar Chamber of Commerce presents the community’s most popular event of the year filled with holiday festivities for family, friends, residents and visitors looking for a spectacular way to ring in the 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 Santa’s Workshops with Fashion Camp December 4 and 16: Kids (7+) join Fashionable Friday and create and design their own Santa’s Workshop! Sunday, December 4, 9 a.m. - noon; and Sunday, December 16, 3:30-5:30 p.m. $49. 2477 Park Ave., Tustin. (714) 259-0946. www.fashioncampoc.com DIY Holiday Workshop at the Hammer Museum December 4: In the future, the moon will be the ultimate holiday-themed vacation destination for holidays both new and old. This workshop’s participants invent a new holiday, then design a themed lunar resort to attract
Deck the Halls Concert in Long Beach December 4: 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
Winter Wonderland at the Irvine Civic Center December 4: Celebrate winter as “snow” falls over the Irvine Civic Center and the community gathers for games, crafts, music, hot chocolate, entertainment and food. The event includes a Joyful Jingles holiday concert and visit from Santa Claus. Sunday, 3-8 p.m. Admission is free; registration not required. 1 Civic Center Plaza, Irvine. www.quickreg.ci.irvine.ca.us BubbleMania in La Mirada December 4: Jaws will drop, laughter will explode and brains will be whirling from this high-energy show. From super solutions and surface tension, fog and helium-filled bubbles, to cube bubbles and human-sized bubbles— it’s an interactive bonanza! Casey Carle has combined his unique and popular bubbling skills with engaging, fun and age-appropriate science for schools and science centers nationwide. Bubbles are not just for popping anymore! Sunday, 1 and 3:30 p.m. $12 per person. Family pack is also available. La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts, 14900 La Mirada Blvd., La Mirada. (714) 994-6310. www.lamiradatheatre.com Santa Cares at Laguna Hills Mall December 4: Kids with special needs are invited to spend a special time with Santa. Sunday, 8-10 p.m. Make reservations on their website. 24155 Laguna Hills Mall, Laguna Hills. (949) 586-8283. www.noerrprograms.com/santacares lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com
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 Hope for the Holidays Opera Concert in Duarte December 5: Join LA Opera artists for a delightful holiday concert featuring holiday songs and American Songbook favorites. Monday, noon - 1 p.m. Free. 1500 E. Duarte Road, Duarte. www.laopera.org
LA Children’s Chorus Winter Concerts December 4 and 11: Acclaimed for its pure sound that has made it one of the most indemand children’s choirs in the country, Los Angeles Children’s Chorus presents its popular Winter Concert, a stocking stuffer of holiday and classical music ranging from Bach to Irving Berlin. Sunday, 7 p.m. Adults, $26-44; kids (17 and under), $13-22. Pasadena Presbyterian Church, 585 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. (626) 793-4231. www.lachildrenschorus.org Theatrical Variety Show in Hollywood December 4: Marzo’s shows are hilarious, enriching, and unforgettable live entertainment that take place in a fun, comfortable, family-friendly theatre with a convenient afternoon time slot. It’s a modern take on a classic format, starring professional acts in an immersive experience the whole family will love. Sunday, 11 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. $8.99-10. Zephyr Theatre, 7456 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles. www.marzos.com • Holiday Tea and Celtic Christmas Show at Muzeo in Anaheim December 4: The air will be filled with the wonderful sounds of the Starlight Carolers as you tour the Muzeo Express: Holiday Model Trains exhibition (open through January 8), and sip hot cider. Enjoy savory tea sandwiches and holiday sweets while watching the Celtic Christmas Show performed by Tin Box Theatricals, an entertaining compilation of rousing songs, endearing stories, hilarious sketches and delightful poetic verse from the British Isles. Performed by professional actors, singers and musicians, this show will leave audiences of all ages with a song in their hearts and a smile on their faces. 2-4:30 p.m. Adults, $60; kids, $40; 28 kidsguide holiday guide 2016
member-adult, $50; member-child, $30. 241 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim. (714) 956-8936. www.muzeo.org/tickets. See ad on page 55. Tree Lighting and Candlelight Choir December 4: 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) 7447293. www.cityoforange.org Santa Cares at South Bay Galleria December 4: Santa Cares is an opportunity for children with special needs and their families to enjoy a photo session with Santa. Extra care has been taken to support the sensory, physical and other developmental needs of children so they can enjoy this wonderful holiday tradition. Sunday, 8-10 a.m. Make reservation on their website. 1815 Hawthorne Blvd., Redondo Beach. (310) 3717546. www.noerrprograms.com/santacares Tuba Christmas in LA December 4: Hear traditional Christmas songs played by seasoned tuba players of all ages. Sunday, 7 p.m. Free. Forest Lawn, 6300 Forest Lawn Drive, Hollywood Hills. www.tubachristmas.com Tree Lighting Ceremony in Downey December 5: Join a tree lighting ceremony
Tree Lighting Ceremony and Community Sing in Westminster December 5: 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 during the event. Please bring canned goods to donate to those in need. Monday, 6:30 p.m. Free. Westminster Civic Center, 8200 Westminster Blvd., Westminster. (714) 8952860. www.westminster-ca.gov Cypress Community Holiday Sing and Tree Lighting December 6: 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, (714) 229-6780. www.cypressrec.com Holiday Family Night at the Fullerton Library December 6 and 13: Bring your family for a fun-filled evening of stories, songs, crafts of the season, and a surprise or two in the Osborne Auditorium. Tuesday, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free. 353 W. Commonwealth Ave., Fullerton. (714) 7386338. www.fullertonlibrary.org Tree Lighting in Garden Grove December 6: 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 Tree Lighting and Toy Drive in Buena Park December 6: A special Winter Follies performance, tree lighting and visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, plus Snoopy and princesses, knights and pirates. Seasonal treats and warm refreshments 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. Tuesday, 6 p.m. Free to attend. 6650 Beach Blvd., Buena Park. (714) 562-3860. www.buenapark.com lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com
Yaya’s Performance Academy Presents…
JANUARY 13-15 & January 20-22 Fridays @ 7:30 pm Saturdays @ 2:00 & 7:30 PM SUNDAY @ 2:00 PM
UNIVERSIty theater at CSULB FOR TICKETS go to : www.yayasacademy.com
Free Family Night at Kidspace in Pasadena December 6: Celebrate the winter solstice traditions from around the world at Kidspace. Participate in winter ice experiments, make your own apple cider mix, and much more! Don’t miss a special cultural performance at 6 p.m. Tuesday, 4-8 p.m. Free. 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena. (626) 4499144. www.kidspacemuseum.org Holiday Tree Lighting in Lakewood December 6, 12-13 and 19-20: Join the City of Lakewood for a tree lighting with carolers and entertainment. Plus, refreshments for purchase. Monday and Tuesday, 6 p.m. Civic Center Plaza, 5000 Clark Ave., Lakewood. (562) 866-9771, Ext. 2160. www.lakewoodcity.org Here Comes Santa Claus in Orange December 6: Kids of all ages 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 The Jungle Book in Los Angeles December 6: Tears of Joy Theater performs the story “Jungle Book” based on the book by Rudyard Kipling. Explore the Indian jungle with Mowgli as he tries to discover to which family he belongs. The audience participates as members of the wolf pack as this powerful play unfolds. Meet his teachers and protectors: Baloo the bear, Bagheera the panther, and Akela the wolf. Laugh at the hijinks of the monkeys and root for Mowgli as he faces his nemesis: the mighty tiger, Shere Khan. Tuesday, 6:30 p.m. Adults, $15; kids, $10. Theatre Raymond Kabbaz, 10361 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles. www.tinyurl.com/junglebookla Holiday Chocolate Truffles for Teens in Orange December 7: Teens (grades 7-12) learn to make creamy and decadent chocolate truffles using an easy, no-bake recipe. Make some for friends and family for the holidays. Wednesday, 6-8 p.m. Free. Orange Public Library and History Center, 407 E. Chapman Ave., Orange. (714) 288-2400. www.cityoforange.org/library Tamale Festival and Las Posadas in Placentia December 7: The Placentia Tamale Festival and Las Posadas is a family-friendly day of free fun for all! An Orange County original celebration, the fest invites you to enjoy delicious tamales and perhaps even take some home. Take in the Las Posadas procession, meet Santa Claus with the kids and enjoy a performance by the Grammy-award-winning Mariachi Divas. Wednesday, 4-9 p.m. Old Town Placentia, 100-200 Santa Fe Ave., Placentia. www.placentiachamber.com 30 kidsguide holiday guide 2016
• Santa Visits at Pretend City December 7, 12, 14, 19 and 22: Go to Pretend City for visits with Santa and enjoy the museum while you are there. Mondays and Saturdays, 10:30 a.m. - noon; and Thursday, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Included with admission. 29 Hubble, Irvine. (949) 428-3900. www. pretendcity.org. See ad on page 50.
p.m. Free. 1860 Anaheim Ave., Costa Mesa. www.costamesaca.gov
Student (Teens) Meet-Up at Amélie, A New Musical at the Music Center in LA December 8: Students (13-23) join a preshow event and performance of “Amélie, A New Musical.” Play games, enjoy snacks, hang out with student theatregoers, get the VIP treatment, and see the show! Amélie captured hearts in the five-time Oscarnominated film. Embark on a mesmerizing journey with inquisitive and charmingly shy Amélie as she turns the streets of Montmartre into a world of her own imagining, while secretly orchestrating moments of joy for those around her. Thursday, meet-up at 7 p.m.; show at 8 p.m. $20. Student ID required. 135 N. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. (213) 6282772. www.centertheatregroup.org
• Holiday Cookie Exchange with Lil’ Chefs December 9: What better way for kids to prepare for the holidays then by learning how to bake some incredible sweet treats, with extras to send home in a decorated box. Lil’ Chefs (5+) will make and decorate gingerbread cookies, cinnamon spiced hot chocolate cookies and Oreo chocolate truffle cups. 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 16.
Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony in Stanton December 8: Join the City of Stanton for a tree lighting with entertainment. Plus, photos with Santa. Thursday, 5:30-7 p.m. Civic Center, 7800 Katella Ave., Stanton. (714) 890-4270. www.ci.stanton.ca.us Free AAA Car Seat Safety Class in Newport Beach December 9: 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, 6:30-8 p.m. Registration required. Hoag Memorial Hospital, 1 Hoag Drive, Newport Beach. (714) 885-2312. www.aaa.com Harry Potter Magical Holiday Ball at Barnes and Noble in Costa Mesa December 9: Dress like your favorite Harry Potter character, wear your holiday best or come as you are and join dancing, music, activities and giveaways. Friday, 7 p.m. Free to attend. 901 B South Coast Drive, Costa Mesa. (714) 444-0226. www.barnesandnoble.com Teen Screening of “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” December 9: Teens (grades 7-12) watch a screening of “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” at the Downtown Rec Center Gym. Friday, 4-6
Parade of Lights in Dana Point Harbor December 9-10 and 16-17: The annual boat parade sails into the harbor. Friday and Saturday, 7:30 p.m. Free to spectate by the water’s edge. (949) 496-5794. www.danapointharbor.com
• Mommy and Me Gingerbread House Workshop in Irvine December 9: A great workshop for the tiny chefs (3-6), with the help of a parent, to learn how to decorate a gingerbread house using icing, candy and sprinkles. Tiny chefs will learn how to make a Christmas tree using sugar cones and frosting. Friday, 1-2 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 16. Holly Jolly Light Tour in Mission Viejo December 9-10: 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 Breakfast with Santa in Newport Beach December 9: 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.newportbeachca.gov Family Art Night at the Norton Simon Museum December 9: Alberto Giacometti looked carefully at people and described his experience through sculpture. Find inspiration from one another the way you might see each other stand, walk or move and create a tall figure using wire and foil. Designed for families with kids ages 6-10. Friday, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Included with admission. Meet at the entrance gallery. 411 Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. (626) 449-6840. www.nortonsimon.org lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com
lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com
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Holiday Writing Workshop at Storymakery December 9: Build a Santa, snowman or ice princess story. Writers lead kids through imagination, fun and writing. Plus, enjoy hot chocolate and holiday treats while the storybooks are made. Thursday and Friday, 6:308:30 p.m. $24.99, register on their website. Includes writing workshop, copy of the book and poster, games, dancing, hot chocolate and treats. 825 Spectrum Center Drive, Irvine. (949) 396-1840. www.storymakery.com Parents Night Out at Open House Creative December 9: Drop the kids (6+) off for several rotating art activities and pizza dinner. Several
mediums available. Friday. 6-9 p.m. $40. Preregistration 24 hours ahead. Online registration available. 1602 Babcock St., Costa Mesa. (949) 438-5674. www.openhouse-creative.com Christmas Prince of Peace Pageant in Long Beach December 9-11: 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
Ice Skating Outdoor • CHILL at the Queen Mary in Long Beach Through January 8: Light up the holidays this winter at the Queen Mary’s CHILL as they proudly present “Alice in Winterland,” an incredible holiday adventure illuminating a holiday inspired re-imagination of the classic Lewis Carroll story. Grab your skates and twirl around the 6,000-square-foot outdoor ice skating rink. Stroll through the North Pole Village, delight in the Peppermint Parlor. Stop by the Queen Mary Village’s post office to send a letter to Santa. Take a spin on the Swinging Sleigh Ride, the Giant Rocking Horse or play Prancer’s Paintball for holiday thrills. Stop by the Gingerbread House to make your own edible creation, and visit Santa and Mrs. Claus at the Claus Cottage. Adults, $39.99-54.99; kids (4-11), $29.99-44.99. Date special, $69.99, and Family-Pack Special, $149.99. Save $5 off general admission with promo code QMCHILL. 1126 Queens Hwy., Long Beach. (877) 342-0738. www.queenmary.com/chill. See ad on page 19. Outdoor Ice Skating Rink at the USS Iowa Through January 8: Lace up your ice skates and take a spin around an ice rink on an actual battleship. The Los Angeles Kings Holiday Ice Rink will be open for the holiday season on Battleship Iowa’s fantail. Daily, 3-10:30 p.m. $15, skate rentals included. 250 S. Harbor Blvd., San Pedro. (877) 446-9261. www. pacificbattleship.com, www.lakingsholidayice.com 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 18, Monday
- Friday, 5-8 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. - midnight; Saturday and Sunday, 3-7 p.m.; 7:30-9:30 p.m.; and 10 p.m. - midnight. December 19 - January 8, 3-7 p.m.; 7:30-9:30 p.m.; and 10 p.m. - midnight. Adults, $17; kids, $13. 95 S. Pine, Long Beach. (877) 225-5337. www.tinyurl.com/icerinkatthepike, www. lakingsholidayice.com Outdoor Ice Skating in Santa Monica Through January 16: 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. 1324 5th St., Santa Monica. (310) 260-1199. www. downtownsm.com/ice Outdoor Ice Skating at Pershing Square Through January 16: Join a winter wonderland with a host of free community and special events (see schedule on their website). 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 • OC Chill Ice Rink at Irvine Spectrum Center Through January 16: The festive outdoor Holiday Ice Rink returns to Giant Wheel Court at Irvine Spectrum Center. Daily, open skate and skate sessions offered. Skate sessions are 75-minutes long, adults and kids with skate rental, $20; without skate rental, $16; toddlers, $16 (double-blade skates are included, 8-12T). Helmets are optional but recom-
between Bellflower Blvd. and Woodruff Ave. www.tinyurl.com/princelb • Nights of a 1000 Lights at Sherman Library and Gardens December 9-10: Experience a dazzling holiday display of luminarias, lights and good cheer, as Sherman Gardens is illuminated with a thousand holiday lights and festive decorations. Enjoy a stroll through the magically-lit gardens as luminary bags line the walkways guiding visitors from one magical experience to the next. The sounds of live Christmas music by The Goodfoot band will fill the air and homemade tamales and wine or champagne will be available to warm the soul; enjoy complimentary coffee, hot chocolate and
mended and provided free of charge. Season passes, $199 (includes skate rental). Ice scooter rental, $5 (subject to availability and management’s discretion). Note: Open skate available Monday - Friday, excluding extended session and holidays. Find open session times and single-session schedule on their website. 670 Spectrum Center Drive, Irvine. (949) 748-8280. www.shopirvinespectrumcenter. com. See ad on page 43. Outdoor Ice Skating in Redondo Beach Through January 8: The annual LA Kings Holiday Ice brings outdoor ice skating to the beach. Make the most out of the holiday season and enjoy outdoor ice skating and take advantage of the beauty of the South Bay. Group tickets and parties available. Daily, visit their website for skate sessions. Admission, $17; kids (6 and under), $13. 239 N. Harbor Drive, Redondo Beach. (310) 387-1370. www.lakingsholidayice.com Outdoor Ice Skating in Woodland Hills Through February 20: 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 Skating by the Sea in San Diego November 24 - January 2: Skating by the Sea returns to Hotel Del Coronado for the 12th year. The spectacular ice rink is located seaside on Windsor Lawn and features stunning views of the Pacific and Coronado beach. The Del’s iconic Victorian Building, adorned with thousands of white lights, provides a magical backdrop as holiday music fills the air and guests enjoy hot chocolate and libations. Weekdays, 4-10 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. $25 per person, includes skate rental. 1500 Orange Ave., Coronado. (619) 435-6611. www.hoteldel.com/events/skating-sea Outdoor Ice Skating LA Kings Holiday Ice at Nokia Plaza November 26 - January 7: The annual LA Kings Holi-
cookies. Each section of the gardens will have unique lighting and decorations ranging from a canopy of twinkling stars over an enchanted evergreen forest to an underwater oasis in the Conservatory. The centerpiece of the display will be a grand 20-foot Christmas tree surrounded by an eye-popping display of flowers. The Tea Garden will be glittering in gold in honor of the Library and Garden’s 50th anniversary. Antique toys and a classic Christmas scene will be on exhibit in the Adobe. There will also be a special children’s activity. Members, $8; non-members, $12; kids (5 and under), free. 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 6.
Christmas Tree Lane Lighting in Altadena December 10: For the 96th year, officials 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
day Ice brings outdoor ice skating to Nokia Plaza L.A. LIVE in Downtown LA. November 26 - December 18: Monday - Friday, 5-8 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. - midnight; Saturday and Sunday, 3-7, 7:30-9:30, and 10 p.m. midnight. December 19 - January 7: Daily, 3-7, 7:309:30, and 10 p.m. - midnight. Admission, $14-18. VIP pass, $35. 800 W. Olympic Blvd., Los Angeles. (866) 548-3452. www.lakingsholidayice.com
9-9:25 a.m.; adults, 9:25-9:50 a.m. $20, includes lesson, skate rental, and skate session at 10 a.m.
Special Events: December 1, 8, 15, 22, and January 5, 12: DJ Music, 7-9:30 p.m. December 11 and January 8: Learn to Curl, 8:30-9:30 a.m. December 1: Silent Night Skate Party, 8:30-9:30 p.m. January 1: Polar Bear Skate, skaters are invited to dress in beach attire and skate to the beat of DJ Howly’s tunes for an invigorating welcome to 2017. Prizes awarded for theme, originality and overall appearance, 2:30-3:30 p.m. Outdoor Ice Skating in Temecula December 8 - January 2: 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.; 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, $6; Bobby skating aid, $6; NYE Skate Special, $20. Town Square Park, 41902 Main St., Temecula. (951) 2979423. www.temeculaca.gov/1120/temecula-on-ice Outdoor Ice Skating in Downtown Burbank December 15 - January 8: 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. Third St. and Orange Grove, Burbank. www.dtnbur.com Special events: December 15: Opening day special. December 17: Entertainment by School of Rock, Santa Skate Hour, Meet ‘n Greets of local talent and special guest performances. December 18: Learn to Curl, $10 admission, 9-9:50 a.m. No experience necessary. Every Saturday: Learn-to-Skate classes, kids (5-15),
Gingerbread Houses at Art To Grow On December 10-11: Learn how to frost, design and decorate a gingerbread house. Includes all holiday candies, lollipops, gum-drops, candy
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 memorabilia is available in the gallery. Fitness center is open to the public and offers group exercise classes. Check website for details on ice schedule and events. See ad on page 17. • 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.The-Rinks.com Guests of all ages enjoy skating at The Rinks. With
canes, snow icing and more! Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. or 3 p.m. $85. Register online. Manhattan Beach Creative Arts Center, 1560 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach. (310) 625-6028. www.citymb.info/registration Children’s Holiday Party in Bellflower December 10: 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 Ho Ho Night Hike in Brea December 10: See Carbon Canyon Regional
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 21. More indoor skating rinks: Aliso Viejo Ice Palace 9 Journey, Aliso Viejo www.avicepalace.com KHS Ice Arena 1000 E. Cerritos Ave., Anaheim www.khsice.com
(949) 643-9648
(714) 422-1236
Lake Forest Ice Palace (949) 305-9658 25821 Atlantic Ocean Drive, Lake Forest www.lficepalace.com Paramount Iceland Ice only. 8041 Jackson St. www.paramounticeland.com
(562) 633-1171
Breakfast with Santa in Huntington Beach December 10: Enjoy a pancake breakfast, holiday music, arts and crafts, and a picture with Santa. Saturday, 8:30-10:30 a.m.; and 9:30-11:30 a.m. $10 per person; registration required, space is limited. Murdy Community Center, 7000 Norma Drive, Huntington Beach. (714) 960-8884. www.huntingtonbeachca.gov Holiday Wreaths Workshop in San Marino December 10: Kids (7-12) learn how to create handmade miniature wreaths to “deck the halls” during the holidays. 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
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 features a visit to the Nature Center, hot cocoa and cookies, a live animal presentation and a hike through the wilderness area. 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 Snoopy House in Costa Mesa December 10-23: 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
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.tinyurl.com/fishinthecity Star Party at Griffith Observatory December 10: Look through 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
Long Beach Daisy Avenue Tree Lighting and Parade December 10: See the brightest street in Long Beach light up, plus the Daisy Ave. Christmas Tree Lane Parade! Bring blankets and chairs. Saturday, 5 p.m. Daisy Ave., between Hill St. and PCH. (562) 570-7777. www.longbeach.gov
Candlelight Walks at Heritage Hill December 10-11: Luminary-lit paths, park aglow with holiday lighting, strolls through historic buildings adorned in holiday decor, carolers, 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) 9232230. www.ocparks.com/historic/heritage
Dinner with Santa at Descanso Gardens December 10-11, 17-18: Share a jolly evening with the man in red! The dinner includes a buffet and fun activities for the youngsters. Saturday and Sunday, 7 p.m. Call or visit their website for prices. Register by December 6. 1418 Descanso Drive, La Canada Flintridge. (818) 949-4200. www.descansogardens.org
Holiday Merriment at the Homestead Museum December 10-11: Enjoy crafts, music, visiting with Santa Claus, and more! Saturday and Sunday, noon - 4 p.m. Picnics are welcome. Admission is free. 15415 E. Don Julian Road, City of Industry. (626) 968-8493. www.homesteadmuseum.org
Fishing with Santa at Whittier Narrows December 10: Annual derbies provide an 34 kidsguide holiday guide 2016
Dickens Day Celebration in Carson December 10-11: Mr. Charles Dickens himself entertains guests retelling “A Christmas Carol” and becoming Scrooge, while using his audience as cast members. Wear your finest Victorian dress. Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. with three shows each day. $25 or $80 for a group of four, advance tickets are recommended and group discounts are available. The International Printing Museum, 315 Torrance Blvd., Carson, (310) 515-7166. www.printmuseum.org Tree Treasures at Kidspace Museum December 10: Paint a masterpiece with natural pine branch brushes, explore the scents and origins of winter spices, and adopt your very own pine tree sapling. Saturday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Included with admission. 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena. (626) 449-9144. www.kidspacemuseum.org • Star Wars Skate Night at The Rinks – Anaheim ICE December 10: 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) 535-RINK. www.The-Rinks.com. See ad on page 21. • Passport to the Holidays Skating Show at The Rinks - Lakewood ICE December 10: Go to The Rinks - Lakewood ICE for their 7th annual holiday show, “Passport to the Holidays.” Saturday, 5 p.m. $10, balcony seating; $15, reserved seating. Tickets can be purchased online at www.showtix4u.com or at The Rinks - Lakewood ICE. 3975 Pixie Ave., Lakewood. (562) 429-1805, Ext. 228. www. lakewoodice.com. See ad on page 21. • An Evening of Celebration Holiday Skating Show at The Rinks - Yorba Linda December 10: Join The Rinks - Yorba Linda lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com
IvyCrest Montessori P R I VAT E S C H O O L PROGRAMS Infant/Toddler (6 weeks - 2 years) Pre-Primary (2 - 3 years) Primary (3 -6 years) Elementary (6 - 12 years) ACADEMICS Botany
Math
Geography
Practical Life
Geometry
Sensorial
History
Zoology
Language
Theater
Lego Engineering
Ballet
Foreign Language
Cooking
Martial Arts
Fine Art
Piano
Guitar
Power Sports
Gymnastics
Science
Jazz
STEM
Tap
Voice
2025 East Chapman Avenue, Fuller ton, Califor nia 92831 (714) 879-6091 • www.ivycrest.org
Holiday Performances Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas at the Old Globe in San Diego Through December 26: A wonderful, whimsical musical based on the classic Dr. Seuss’ book. The Old Globe Theatre transforms into the snow-covered Whoville, right down to the last can of Who-hash. Days and times vary; 11 a.m. matinee performances are open to all ages; everyone must have a ticket; kids under age 3 will not be admitted except during 11 a.m. performances. Note: Special sensory-friendly performance, Saturday, December 10, 10:30 a.m. $89-109. 1363 Old Globe Way, San Diego. www.theoldglobe.org Life and Adventures of Santa Claus in Long Beach November 25 - December 11: Why does Santa make toys? Why must he deliver them all in one night? How can he live forever? Written by L. Frank Baum (Wizard of Oz), this tale tells the story of the fairies, wood nymphs, and forest creatures who saved the life of an abandoned human baby, who then grew up to be the immortal Santa Claus. A holiday classic for the whole family. Friday and Saturday, 8 p.m.; and Sunday, 2 p.m. $12.50-22.50. 4250 Atlantic Ave., Long Beach. (562) 997-1494. www.lbshakespeare.org A Christmas Carol in Costa Mesa November 25 - December 24: Recapture the spirit of an old-fashioned Christmas with this timeless Dickens classic and all your favorite characters. Ages 6+; no children under age 6 will be admitted; regardless of age, everyone must have a ticket, sit in a seat and be able to sit quietly through the performance. Visit their website for performance times and ticket prices. 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa. (714) 708-5555. www.scr.org It’s a Wonderful Life Radio Show in Fullerton November 25 - December 18: Captivating life as a live 1940’s radio broadcast. 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, 5 p.m. Additional shows, December 10 and 17, 4:30 p.m.; and December 18, 5 p.m. 400 E. Commonwealth Ave., Fullerton. (714) 525-4484. www.stagesoc.org The Holiday Gem in Garden Grove November 25 - December 18: 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. 12852 Main St., Garden Grove. (714) 7419550, Ext. 221. www.onemoreproductions.com Irving Berlin’s White Christmas at the Pantages in Hollywood November 29 - December 4: Irving Berlin’s White Christmas tells the story of a song-and-dance team putting on a show in a magical Vermont inn and falling
for a stunning sister act in the process. Days and times vary. $35-135. 6233 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood. (323) 468-1700. www.hollywoodpantages.com
day, 2 and 7 p.m. $17-20. 1045 N. Armando St., Ste. B, Anaheim. (714) 630-7378. www.stagedoorrep.org
Holiday Concert in Dana Point November 29-30: Join South Orange County School of the Arts for their student showcase. Tuesday Wednesday, 7 p.m. $12-15. Dana Hills High School, 33333 Street of the Golden Lantern, Dana Point. (949) 240-1994. www.socsarts.org
Festival of Carols at Walt Disney Concert Hall December 3 and 10: Ring in the holidays with favorite carols and songs of the season. Santa will be available to meet with kids of all ages after the performance. Saturday, December 3, 2 p.m.; December 10, 8 p.m. $29-109. 111 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. (213) 972-7282. www.lamc.org
A Christmas Carol in Temecula December 1-11: Bring the family to watch the holiday classic. Thursday - Sunday, 7:30 p.m. $10-25. 42051 Main St., Temecula. (866) 653-8696. www. temeculatheater.org
Vienna Boys Choir in Costa Mesa December 3: The Vienna Boys Choir feature classical masterpieces and holiday favorites. Saturday, 3 p.m. Tickets start at $25. 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa. (714) 556-2787. www.scfta.org
A Christmas Carol in San Marino December 2: Get into the spirit of the season with a lively, interactive performance of Charles Dickens’ holiday classic. The program includes a pre-show sing-along of favorite holiday tunes. Friday, 7-8 p.m. $10-15 per person; purchase tickets online. The cafe will open before the start of the event. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino. (800) 838-3006. www.huntington.org
Family Christmas Concerts at Nixon Library December 4, 11, and 18: Bring the whole family and enjoy holiday favorites. Sunday, doors open at 1:30 p.m.; music at 2 p.m. Free. See lineup on their website. 18001 Yorba Linda Blvd., Yorba Linda. (714) 993-5075. www.nixonfoundation.org
A Christmas with Scrooge in Irvine December 2-30: Join a production of a Christmas classic. Thursday, 7 p.m.; 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). 36-C Mauchly, Irvine. (949) 753-1996. www.musicaltheatrevillage.net Elf Jr. Kids Cast in Santa Ana December 2-18: Celebrate your family’s inner elves with a performance of this new holiday classic. Friday, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, 2:30 and 7:30 p.m.; and Sunday, 2:30 p.m. Call for ticket prices. The Attic Community Theater, 2834 S. Fairview Ave. (714) 856-0571. www.ocact.com Merry-Achi Christmas in Cerritos December 3: A traditional Mexican holiday celebration full of seasonal songs, dance and festive merriment. With Sol de Mexico de Jos Hernandez Mariachi joined by Americas first all-female Mariachi, Reyna de Los Angeles, and Grandeza Mexicana Ballet Folklorico company. Saturday, 7 p.m. $35-86. 12700 Center Court Drive, Cerritos. (562) 467-8819. www.cerritoscenter.com Christmas in the Air in Temecula December 3-4: Enjoy holiday sing-alongs. Saturday, 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, 2 p.m. $11-18. 42051 Main St., Temecula.(866) 653-8696. www.temeculatheater.org A Christmas Carol in Anaheim December 3-17: Watch the classic Christmas story come to life on stage. Friday and Saturday, 8 p.m.; Sun-
Christmas Fantasia at Segerstrom December 6: Enjoy favorite carols and breathtaking masterpieces performed by Vanguard University. Tuesday, 8 p.m. Tickets start at $25. 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa. (714) 556-2787. www.scfta.org Sleeping Beauty and Her Winter Knight at Laguna Playhouse December 7-30: Broadway and TV stars perform in this interactive musical fairy tale with comedy, magic and pop music. Sleeping Beauty and Her Winter Knight is based on the European fairytale. Days and times vary, visit their website for details and ticket purchase. 606 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach. (949) 497-2787. www.lagunaplayhouse.com A Cinderella Christmas in Pasadena December 8 - January 8: An interactive version of the age-old fairytale of Cinderella set to modern music. Show days and time vary. $25-125; Golden Tickets are available as an add-on to any child’s ticket for an additional $75 each (limit of 10 per performance). A Golden Ticket provides the ticket holder (ages 4-12 only) with a special onstage sing-along experience during the production, and a gift bag with special surprises. Pasadena Playhouse, 39 S. El Molino Ave., Pasadena. (626) 3567529. www.pasadenaplayhouse.org Olate Dogs Santa Paws Holiday Show at the Grove of Anaheim December 9: The Olate Dogs are the winning participants from season seven of America’s Got Talent. Led by Richard Olate and his son Nicholas, the Olate Dogs are a high-energy, fast-paced canine theatrical act filled with amazing dog tricks, human acrobatics and
humor. Friday, 7:30 p.m. $25. 2200 E Katella Ave., Anaheim. www.citynationalgroveofanaheim.com Christmas Melodrama and Ice Cream Social at OCC December 9-11 and 16-17: 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. $7-9. Orange Coast College Drama Lab Theatre, 2701 Fairview Road, Costa Mesa. (714) 432-5880. www.orangecoastcollege.edu The Young Americans Present The Magic of Christmas in La Mirada December 9-11 and 14-18: The Young Americans take the audience on a ride to a magical place. Christmas in the northern mountains, snow, and a small town. Wednesday - Friday, 8 p.m.; Saturday, 2 and 8 p.m; and Sunday, 2-7 p.m. $29-60. 14900 La Mirada Blvd., La Mirada. (714) 994-9801. www.lamiradatheatre.com Colors of Christmas in Cerritos December 10: The annual tradition returns with Oleta Adams, Jon Secada, Melissa Manchester, and American Idol champ Ruben Studdard delivering holiday tunes and seasonal cheer. Saturday, 8 p.m. $55100. Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts. 12700 Center Court Drive, Cerritos. (562) 467-8819. www. cerritoscenter.com A Christmas Carol in Long Beach December 10-18: The Long Beach Playhouse brings Dickens’ story to life in a quick-paced, highly theatrical re-telling of the classic tale. Thursday, Friday and Saturday, 8 p.m.; and Sunday, 2 p.m. Tickets, $14-24. Long Beach Playhouse, 5021 E. Anaheim St. (562) 494-1014. www.lbplayhouse.org Elf Jr. in Santa Ana December 10-11 and 17-18: Embrace your families’ inner elf by watching Buddy’s journey that finds the meaning of Christmas. Optional cocoa party before the show. Saturday and Sunday, 2 p.m., cocoa at 1 p.m. Show only, $10-12; show and cocoa, $15-17. 626 French St., Santa Ana. (714) 542-6939. www.broadwayontour.org Elf Jr. in Long Beach December 10-11: Join Children’s Theatre of Long Beach for their performance of Elf Jr. Saturday, 5:30 p.m.; and Sunday, noon. Visit website for ticket prices. 3759 Orange Ave., Long Beach. www.childrenstheatreoflongbeach.org A Christmas Carol at Calvary Chapel of the Harbour December 12-13 and 15-18: Join the ACTS Drama group for a free performance of a holiday classic. Monday - Tuesday and Thursday - Sunday, 7 p.m. Free. 16450 Pacific Coast Hwy., Ste. 100, Huntington Beach. (562) 592-1800. www.ccoth.com Disney On Ice Worlds of Enchantment December 15 - January 8: An ice spectacular showcases beloved characters from DisneyPixar’s Cars, Toy Story 3, Disney’s The Little Mermaid plus the enchanting Frozen. Get warmed up with Mickey’s
Dance-Along Pre-Show Party. Enjoy high-speed stunts of DisneyPixar’s Cars. Dive into adventure with Ariel from The Little Mermaid. Watch heroic action when Buzz, Woody, Jessie and the gang escape Sunnyside Daycare. Plus, enter the wintery world of Arendelle with sisters Anna and Elsa and pals Olaf and Kristoff. Los Angeles, Staples Center, December 15-18; Anaheim, Honda Center, December 21-25; Long Beach Arena, December 28 - January 1; and Ontario, Citizen’s Bank Arena, January 4-8. Tickets start at $25. www.disneyonice.com/frozen A Christmas Carol Radio Show in Long Beach December 16-18: The Long Beach Shakespeare Company presents the classic 1939 radio edition of A Christmas Carol. Friday and Saturday, 8 p.m.; and Sunday, 2 p.m. $12.50. 4250 Atlantic Ave., Long Beach. (562) 997-1494. www.lbshakespeare.org Disney’s Frozen Sing-Along in Rancho Cucamonga December 17: Get ready for the winter season by reliving the magic of Disney’s animated hit Frozen in a sing-along event the whole family can enjoy. On-screen lyrics make it easy to join in the fun, and dressing up is encouraged. Saturday, 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. $15. Lewis Family Playhouse, 12505 Cultural Center Drive, Rancho Cucamonga. www.lewisfamilyplayhouse.com Charlie Brown Christmas at CSULB December 17: Get the entire family into the holiday spirit with Christmas tunes performed by jazz pianist David Benoit. Saturday, 8 p.m. $45. CSULB - Carpenter Performing Arts Center, 6200 Atherton St., Long Beach. (562) 985-7000. www.carpenterarts.org Cirque Musica in Anaheim December 17: Cirque Musica performs feats of strength, skill, and grace to holiday music favorites performed by a live symphony. Saturday, 7:30 p.m. Tickets through TicketMaster. 2695 E. Katella Ave. www.hondacenter.com Holiday Candlelight Concert with the Pasadena Symphony December 17: Top off the holiday season in All Saints Church, Pasadena’s equivalent of a classic European cathedral. An array of choruses join Sarah Uriarte Berry featuring the most popular and cherished holiday melodies performed by candlelight. Saturday, 4 and 7 p.m. $20-150. 132 N Euclid Ave., Pasadena. (626) 793-7172. www.pasadenasymphony-pops.org Holiday Pops Spectacular at the Warner Grand Theatre December 17: Celebrate the holiday season with the Golden State Pops Orchestra and Chorale for a festive performance of 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 Halau Holiday Celebration in Los Angeles December 17: Join four Southern California Kumu Hula and their award-winning halau as they share this aloha and holiday-infused dance and music performance. Special performance by Ukuleles for Little Tokyo. Saturday, 7 p.m. $22-28. Artani Theatre, 244 S. San Pedro St., Los Angeles. (213) 628-2725. www.jaccc.org
Holiday Sing-Along with the LA Phil December 17: Accompanied by Walt Disney Concert Hall’s huge pipe organ, a choir and a jazz combo, enjoy singing numerous popular songs of the season. Saturday, 11:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. $32.5084. Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S Grand Ave., Los Angeles. (323) 850-2000. www.laphil.com Messiah Sing-Along at the Walt Disney Concert Hall December 18: Join the 36th annual Messiah SingAlong. This year, the Master Chorale will be onstage to sing along with the audience. Sunday, 7:30 p.m. $39-89. 111 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. (213) 9727282. www.lamc.org Tis the Season in Costa Mesa December 18-19: 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 Holiday Organ Spectacular in Costa Mesa December 20: Enjoy a mix of sacred and holiday music. Tuesday, 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $15. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa. (714) 556-2787. www.scfta.org • Elf the Musical at Segerstrom Center for the Arts December 20 - January 1: This modern day Christmas classic is sure to make everyone embrace their inner Elf. Recommended for families with kids ages 7 and up. Tuesday - Friday, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, 2 and 7:30 p.m.; and Sunday, 1 and 6:30 p.m. Tickets start at $25. 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa. (714) 556-278. www.scfta.org. See ad on page 3. Klezmatics Hanukkah Concert in Costa Mesa December 22: Often called a “Jewish roots band,” the Klezmatics have led a popular revival of this ages-old, nearly forgotten art form. 8 p.m. 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa. (714) 556-2787. www.scfta.org Fiesta Navidad at Segerstrom December 23: Celebrate the cultural traditions of Mexico with music and a re-enactment of Joseph and Mary’s sojourn to Bethlehem in La Posada, and upbeat music and traditional ballads, dancing and a singalong of holiday favorites. Friday, 8 p.m. Tickets start at $29. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa. (714) 556-2121. www.scfta.org 57th Annual Free LA County Holiday Celebration December 24: Choirs, music ensembles and dance companies from the many neighborhoods and cultures of LA celebrate the season during this free three-hour extravaganza. The event will also be broadcast live on local public television. Saturday, 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.lacountyarts.org
so much more @
kidsguidemagazine.com ICE for the “Evening of Celebration Holiday Skating Exhibition Show.” Saturday, 6 p.m. Free admission. 23641 La Palma Ave., Yorba Linda. (714) 692-8776. www.The-Rinks.com. See ad on page 21. Lakeshore Learning’s Free Saturday Workshops December 10: Kids (3+) design hats. Saturday, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Free. No reservations necessary. Carson, (310) 537-4778; Fountain Valley, (714) 9638255; and Laguna Hills, (949) 462-9353. www. lakeshorelearning.com/freecrafts4kids Family Bird Walk at the Arboretum December 10: 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. 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia. www.arboretum.org LA International Children’s Film Festival December 10-11: The 12th 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. Saturday - Sunday, 10:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. Free. Los Angeles County Museum of Art. www.lacma.org Full Moon Hike on the Mesa in Bommer Canyon December 10: Families with kids (8+) enjoy a full moon hike on the Mesa in Black Star Canyon. At an easy pace, allowing time to enjoy the surrounding sights and sounds, 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 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, 5-7 p.m. Register on their website. 28373 Alicia Pkwy., Black Star Canyon. www.letsgooutside.org Christmas at the OC Zoo December 10: Join holiday fun at the OC Zoo including 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 38 kidsguide holiday guide 2016
p.m. Included with zoo admission; $2 per person; parking, $5. 1 Irvine Park Road, Orange. www.ocparks.com/zoo Winter Wonderland at Placentia Library December 10: Celebrate the season with holiday crafts, treats, and a visit from Santa. Children make holiday cards that the library will take to a local senior center. Saturday, 2-3:30 p.m. Free to attend. 411 E. Chapman Ave., Placentia. (714) 528-1906. www.placentialibrary.org Free 1K Kids’ Penguin Waddle in Pomona December 10: 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. Race Saturday, age-group waves start at 9:45 a.m. Kool ‘N Fit Festival, Saturday, 7 a.m. - noon and Sunday, 6 a.m. - noon. Free; donations of unwrapped toys are encouraged, for Toys for Tots. 1101 W. McKinley Ave., Pomona. www.runholidayhalf.com • Saturday Science at Columbia Memorial Space Center in Downey December 10, 17 and 24: Join the CMSC for Saturday Science that offers fun and educational science activities and demonstrations. Call or visit their website for more times and details. $5. 12400 Columbia Way, Downey. (562) 2311200. www.columbiaspacescience.org. See ad on page 51. Surfing Santa and Concert at Redondo Beach Pier December 10: 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. The event benefits Love in the Mirror, a youth-led charity and their annual toy drive for homeless and disadvantaged youth. Attendees are invited to bring a new unwrapped toy valued at $5 or more in exchange for a chance to win pier prizes. 100 Fisherman’s Wharf, Redondo Beach. www.redondopier.com Santa Run 5/10K and Kids’ Fun Run in Irvine December 10: 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. Hicks Canyon Elementary School. Free shuttles from Beckman High School, 3817 Viewpark Ave., Irvine. www. renegaderaceseries.com Breakfast With Santa In Seal Beach December 10: Enjoy a holiday breakfast with Santa with bounce houses and photo opportunity. Saturday, 8-10:30 a.m. Free, first-come, first-served. 151 Marina Drive. (562) 4312527, Ext. 1344. www.sealbeachca.gov The Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra in Costa Mesa December 10: The festive and spirited program features classics by Leonard Bernstein, from his Broadway musical “Candide.” Go early or stay late to enjoy engaging lobby activities, including the Philharmonic Society’s hands-on Music Mobile instrument demonstration, always a favorite. Saturday, 2 p.m. $15. 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa. (714) 556-2787. www.scfta.org Parade of 1,000 Lights in Long Beach December 10: 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 Cookies with Santa in Signal Hill December 10: Spend 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. Saturday, 9 a.m. Limited space available. Call to preregister and for location. (562) 989-7330. www.cityofsignalhill.org Southern California Children’s Chorus Holiday Concert December 10: Enjoy the Southern California Children’s Chorus as they perform their Christmas concert. Saturday, 5 p.m. Please call for ticket purchase. Calvary Church Santa Ana, 1010 N. Tustin, Santa Ana. (949) 250-9114. www.sccchorus.org Elf at LA’s Million Dollar Theatre December 10: Get your seasonal cheer on with an Elf screening, strolling Christmas carolers and holiday food galore inside the theater, or next door, at Grand Central Market’s cornucopia of sweet and savory options. Satlots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com
Tubing & Sledding • Alpine Slide and Snow Play 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 highbanked turns and long straightways. Go-Karts and mini-golf also offered. Daily, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. (Christmas Day, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.). Tubing: $30 per person ages 7 and up, includes inner tube and unlimited rides down eight runs; 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 ages 18 and older. 800 Wildrose Lane, Big Bear Lake. (909) 866-4626. www.alpineslidebigbear.com
www.bigbearsnowplay.com/tubing.html. See ad on page 2.
• Big Bear Snow Play Mid-November through Easter: Day and night “glow” tubing at Big Bear Snow Play. Daily, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. and Friday, Saturday and holiday glow night sessions, 5-9 p.m. (Christmas Day, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.). Day tubing, $30; night tubing, $25. Kids (2-6) are free with a paying adult. 42825 Big Bear Blvd., Big Bear Lake. (909) 585-0075.
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 and 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
• 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 $25. Tubes are included in the ticket price. Take advantage of their Early-Bird 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.com for directions or call toll free (888) 754-7878. See ad on page 41.
Snowdrift Snow Tubing Park Through March: Snowdrift offers tubing fun on snow tubes that are specially designed with belly straps and handles. Beginner, intermediate and advanced slopes available. Monday Friday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.; Saturday, Sunday and holidays, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Call first for pricing and to confirm good conditions. Highway 18, four miles past Running Springs. (909) 8672640. www.snowdrift.net Snow Valley Snow Play Through March: Enjoy a chairlift ride followed by a downhill sled ride. Snow accessories, including snow boots, gloves and waterproof pants, are available for purchase. Plus, take part in the Snow Play adventure while enjoying some food or a drink on a sun deck. Friday - Sunday, plus holidays, 10 a.m. 4 p.m. Call or visit their website for snow conditions and ticket prices. Snow Valley Mountain Resort, (909) 867-2751. www.snow-valley.com Also see: “Snow Days” on page 18 for more snow fun!
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urday, doors open at 6 p.m., movie at 8 p.m. $20. 307 S. Broadway St., Los Angeles. www. streetfoodcinema.com/elf-3 • Vans Skatepark Holiday Skate Clinics December 10 and 17: Vans Skatepark in Orange, a 40,000-square-foot facility, offers two Holiday Clinics on Saturday, December 10 and 17. 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 nonmembers. Space is limited, so sign up today. 20 City Blvd., West, Orange. (714) 7693800. www.vans.com. See ad on page 15. Christmas Parade in Whittier December 10: 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. Free. Whittier Blvd. and Greenleaf Ave., Whittier. www.whittieruptown.org/parade Posada Navideña at the Anaheim Marketplace December 11: 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 Piñata breaking. Sunday, noon - 4 p.m. 1440 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim. (714) 999-0888. www.anaheimindoormarketplace.com Autry Explorers The Gift of Giving at The Autry December 11: Explore the hidden stories of Los Angeles families from the 1890s and learn how generosity has influenced Los Angeles. Each Explorer will have the opportunity to create a unique gift that allows their generosity to flourish beyond the Autry. Plus, a special activity area with books, puzzles and toys. Sunday, 1-4 p.m. Included with museum admission. 4700 Western Heritage Way, Los Angeles. (323) 667-2000. www. theautry.org Family Day at El Segundo Museum of Art December 11: Explore the BRAIN exhibit with family and friends, take part in a scavenger hunt, and design a special award for yourself, a family member, or friend! Art-making materials available for all ages and skill levels. Sunday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Free. 208 Main St., El Segundo. (424) 277-1020. www.esmoa.org Holly Days with Meritage Vocal Ensemble in Anaheim December 11: A holiday concert featuring seasonal favorites. Sunday, 4 p.m. $21. Anaheim United Methodist Church, 1000 S. State Collots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com
lege Blvd., Anaheim. (714) 519-6370. www. focmusic.org Heritage House Christmas Tour at Fullerton Arboretum December 11 and 18: Join costumed docents who explain how Christmas was celebrated “in the old days.” Father Christmas will stroll the area around Heritage House for photo opportunities with children and families. View a 1928 work truck that was used in orange groves. Plus, refreshments and seasonal vocal and instrumental performances on the porch. Singing along is encouraged. Sunday, 2-4 p.m. Donations welcome. 1900 Associated Road, Fullerton. (657) 278-3407. www. fullertonarboretum.org
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. Call for (714) 390-9493 more details. 7561 Center Ave., Huntington Beach. (714) 895-8020. www. oldworld.ws Holiday Ice Show in Paramount December 11: Paramount Iceland presents a holiday show that features more than 40 local
and international skaters of all ages and levels. Sunday, 5-7 p.m. Call for ticket prices. 8041 Jackson St., Paramount. (562) 633-1171. www.paramounticeland.com Old Time Christmas Festival at Rancho Los Cerritos December 11: Discover the traditions of Victorian Christmastime, make historic crafts, sip warm cider, and enjoy the company of costumed docents as you explore the decorated adobe. Sunday, 1-4 p.m. $5. 4600 Virginia Road, Long Beach. (562) 206-2040. www.rancholoscerritos.org
Family Flick Presents The Wizard of Oz at the Hammer Museum December 11: Whether for the first time or the hundredth, sing along with Dorothy and her friends as they journey through Oz. Recommended for ages 6 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 Santa Visits Lil’ Devils in Long Beach December 11: Bring family, friends, kids and pets for a visit and picture with Santa. Sunday, noon - 4 p.m. $5 per sitting, download and print as many copies as you want. 2218 4th St., Long Beach. (562) 439-0555. www. facebook.com/lildevilsboutique Santa and the Polar Express in Lomita December 11: 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, 1-4 p.m. $10 per family. 2137 W. 250th St., Lomita. (310) 3266255. www.lomita-rr.org Queen Anne Cottage Holiday Tours at the LA Arboretum December 11: 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, part 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 Live Nativity Play and International Celebration at Old World Huntington Beach December 11: Each year Old World Village lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com
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Pet Photo Night with Santa at Westminster Mall December 11: Bring your furry friend to meet Santa and take a picture with the jolly man himself. Sunday, 6-9 p.m. 1025 Westminster Mall, Westminster. (714) 898-2559. www.simon.com Here Comes Santa Claus in Orange December 12: Kids meet Santa 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/library • Christmas Countdown at Pretend City December 12-23: It’s 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 daily activities help to channel your young child’s anticipation into simple activities that celebrate the holiday. Daily, visit their website for schedule. Included with admission. 29 Hubble, Irvine. (949) 428-3900. www.pretendcity.org. See ad on page 50. Geminid Meteor Shower December 13: Tonight is likely the peak night of the 2016 Geminid meteor shower, though under the light of the full moon. Watch from late Tuesday evening until dawn Wednesday. 18751 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach. www.tinyurl.com/geminiedmeteor Here Comes Santa at the Orange Library Taft Branch December 13: Kids of all ages meet the big guy himself and tell him their wishes. Tuesday, 5-6:30 p.m. Free. Orange Library and History Center, 740 E. Taft Ave., Orange. (714) 2882430. www.cityoforange.org/library Cocoa with Santa at Rancho Los Cerritos December 13 and 17: Enjoy delicious cocoa and treats, make holiday crafts, enjoy stories, and meet Santa. Tuesday, 4 p.m. and Saturday, 11 a.m. $12 per person, includes a photo with Santa. Reservations required. 4600 Virginia Road, Long Beach. (562) 206-2040. www.rancholoscerritos.org Viewing of the Newport Beach Boat Parade at Newport Sea Base December 14-18: Join the Sea Base on their lawn for a view of the 108th annual Newport Beach Boat Parade. Wednesday - Sunday, opens at 6 p.m.; parade starts passing in front of the Sea Base around 8 p.m. $10 advance ticket; $20 night of event. Snacks and refreshments for purchase. Note: there is no parking at the base; passenger drop off only. 1931 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach. (949) 642-5031. www.newportseabase.org 42 kidsguide holiday guide 2016
Holiday Open House and Tour at Rancho Los Alamitos December 14-16: Celebrate the holiday and enjoy an evening visit to Rancho Los Alamitos. Visit the decorated ranch house and complimentary holiday refreshments. Evening tours feature seasonal music enjoyed under the eaves of the Horse Barn. The Rancho Gift Shop will be open for shopping. Wednesday - Friday, 4-8 p.m. Free; parking reservations are required. 6400 E. Bixby Hill Road, Long Beach. (562) 431-3541. www. rancholosalamitos.com • Anaheim Ducks Holiday Toy Drive Skate at The Rinks - Anaheim ICE December 14: Join The Rinks for their annual Holiday Toy Drive Skate Night. Donate new, unwrapped toys, books and games and skate for free as well as be entered to win Anaheim Ducks raffle prizes. The night includes holiday activities and crafts as well as appearances by Wild Wing, Anaheim Ducks Power Players, and Anaheim Ducks Street Team. Wednesday, 7-9 p.m. Free with new, unwrapped toy, books, and/or games. Call for details. 300 W. Lincoln Ave., Anaheim. (714) 535-7465, Ext. 0. www. The-Rinks.com. See ad on page 21. Family Movie Night at Fullerton Library December 15: Bring your family for a funfilled evening at the library. Call for movie title. Thursday, 6:30-8 p.m. Free. 353 W. Commonwealth Ave., Fullerton. (714) 738-6338. www. fullertonlibrary.org Tween Holiday Crafts in Orange December 15: Tweens (8-12) get into the holidays by creating their own cards and ornaments. Thursday, 3:30-4:30 p.m. 407 E. Chapman Ave., Orange. (714) 288-2400. www.cityoforange.org/depts/library Ronald McDonald House OC Toy Drive December 15-17: Help bring cheer to kids undergoing medical treatments by dropping off new, unwrapped toys or gifts at the Orange County Ronald McDonald House. Thursday, 4-8 p.m.; Friday, 1-8 p.m.; and Saturday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. 383 S. Batavia St., Orange. (714) 639-3600. www.rmhcsc.org/orangecounty Kids Night Out In Cypress December 16: Kids (5-12), get ready for a fun night out with friends. This program will have kids busy the whole night through with games, crafts, a movie, dinner and dessert! Parents take this opportunity to catch a movie, check out a new restaurant, or Christmas shop. Friday, 6-10 p.m. $15 per child. Mini-
mum enrollment is required two days prior to date. (714) 229-6780. www.cypressrec.com Huntington Harbor Cruise of Lights December 16-19 and 22-23: In its 54th 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. (714) 8407542. www.cruiseoflights.org • Gingerbread House Decorating Workshop with Lil’ Chefs December 16: Lil’ Chefs (5+) make and decorate gingerbread cookies to add to premade gingerbread houses. They 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 favorite holiday jingles. Friday, 5:30-7:30 p.m. $59 for up to two kids per gingerbread house. Visit their website to register. 15435 Jeffery Road., #132, Irvine. (949) 679-8390. www. lilchefschool.com. See ad on page 16. • Las Posadas Fiesta at Pretend City Children’s Museum December 16: Go to Pretend City with your family to celebrate the first day of this nineday Mexican Christmas celebration. Through special activities and events your children will have fun learning about the history of this celebration. Friday, all day. Included with admission. 29 Hubble, Irvine. (949) 428-3900. www.pretendcity.org. See ad on page 50. Naples Boat Parade in Long Beach December 17: 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: “Naples Boat Parade 70th Year a Platinum Celebration.” Saturday, 6 p.m. Free to spectate. (562) 598-9401. www.naplesca.com Ocean in Art Gyotaku at Cabrillo Marine Aquarium December 17: Create one-of-a-kind gifts while practicing the art of Gyotaku fish printing. Fee includes paint and paper—bring fabric or clothes to print on during this studio workshop. Saturday, 9:30 a.m. - noon. $18; preregistration required by December 16. Walk-ins cannot be accommodated. 3720 Stephen M. White Drive, San Pedro. (310) 548-7562. www.cabrillomarineaquarium.org lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com
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Saturday, 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. $35-45. Fee includes one accompanying adult. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino. (800) 838-3006. www.huntington.org
mous Air in G. Saturday, 7 p.m., Beverly O’Neill Theater, Long Beach. Sunday, 7:30 p.m., Zipper Hall, Colburn School of Music, Los Angeles. $75-170. www.musicaangelica.org
Victorian Holiday Cards Children’s Workshop in San Marino December 17: Kids (5-12) send vintage “season’s greetings” to friends and family by designing Victorian-style holiday cards in this workshop with instructor Laura Moede. Saturday, 1-3:30 p.m. $25-35. Fee includes one accompanying adult. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino. (626) 405-2100. www.huntington.org
Family Day at the Norton Simon Museum December 17: Vincent van Gogh once lived in what he called his Yellow House. He made a painting of his bedroom that had blue walls, a green window and yellow chairs, with everything in its place. He loved it so much that he made three paintings of his bedroom. Kids (4-10) can think about their dream bedroom, what color it might be and what furniture it might have, and create a dream bedroom diorama using small boxes and mixed media. Saturday, 1:30-3:30 p.m. Free with admission. 411 Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. (626) 449-6840. www.nortonsimon.org
Kids Night Out at Alpert JCC in Long Beach December 17: Kids (grades K-8) join Alpert JCC for a night of fun, including dinner, movie, crafts and games, while their parents enjoy a night out or holiday shipping. Saturday, 5-10 p.m. $35-40. Sibling discounts. Registration must be completed by Wednesday, December 14. 3801 E. Willow St., Long Beach. (562) 4267601. www.alpertjcc.org Charles Dickens Carolers at Kaleidoscope Mission Viejo December 17: Join some holiday cheer with The Charles Dickens Carolers. Saturday, 6-8 p.m. Free to attend. 27741 Crown Valley Pkwy., Mission Viejo.www.gokaleidoscope.com • Star Wars Family Fun Night at Columbia Memorial Space Center December 17: 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, Star Wars fans are invited to gather for an inter-galactic experience of learning through 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. Plus, join the Junior Explorers (6-8) from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, 6:30-9:30 p.m. Admission, $5; CMSC members, free. 12400 Columbia Way, Downey. (562) 2311200. www.columbiaspacescience.org. See ad on page 51. Culinary Christmas Kids’ Workshop in San Marino December 17: Kids (7-12) celebrate the holidays in sweet style with chef Ernest Miller and make old-fashioned treats that are perfect for gift giving, stocking stuffing, and enjoying.
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Lakeshore Learning’s Free Saturday Workshops December 17: Kids (3+) make a fun, frosty photo frame. Saturday, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Free. No reservations necessary. Carson, (310) 537-4778; Fountain Valley, (714) 9638255; and Laguna Hills, (949) 462-9353. www.lakeshorelearning.com/freecrafts4kids Artic Lights at Moorpark College Teaching Zoo December 17-18: 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 Baroque Christmas Performance in Long Beach and Los Angeles December 17-18: A concert perfect for the Yuletide celebration opens with Johann Sebastian Bach’s 3rd Orchestral Suite complete with three heralding trumpets, timpani and the fa-
• Kids Decorate a Holiday Tree at Sherman Library and Gardens December 17: Children decorate a small living tree with festive lights, fruit, ribbon and a bird in a nest. Saturday. 9:30 a.m. Friends, $30; non-members, $35; second child, $25. 2647 E. Coast Hwy., Corona Del Mar. (949) 673-2261. www.slgardens.org. See ad on page 6. Starlight Train Ride in Torrance December 17: Join Southern California Live Steamers for the annual Starlight Train Ride. Saturday, 5-8 p.m. $5 boarding tickets. Call for more information. 2290 Washington Ave., Torrance. (310) 328-0236. www. southerncalifornialivesteamers.org • The Elf on the Shelf Holiday Skating Show at The Rinks - Anaheim ICE December 17: The Rinks - Anaheim ICE presents their annual holiday show, “The Elf on the Shelf - Belief on Ice.” Saturday, 4 p.m. Adults, $15; kids (12 and under), $10. Tickets can be purchased at The Rinks - Anaheim ICE Program Office. 300 West Lincoln Ave., Anaheim. (714) 535-7465, Ext. 0. www.The-Rinks.com. See ad on page 21. Tuba Christmas in Anaheim December 17: Hear traditional Christmas songs played by seasoned tuba players of all ages. Saturday, noon. Free. Downtown Disney. www.tubachristmas.com Breakfast with Santa at Westminster Mall December 17: Families have breakfast with the jolly man himself! Santa will host a yummy meal, crafts and entertainment for the whole family. Reservations required as space is limited. Saturday, 8-10 a.m. Free. Westminster Mall, 1025 Westminster Mall, Westminster. www.westminstermall.com lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com
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kidsguide holiday guide 2016 45
Chill Outings • CHILL at the Queen Mary in Long Beach November 23 - January 8: Light up the holidays this winter at the Queen Mary’s CHILL as they proudly present “Alice in Winterland,” an incredible holiday adventure illuminating a holiday inspired re-imagination of the classic Lewis Carroll story. Wander through an immersive 14,000-square-foot experience that tells the story of Alice in Winterland. Grab your skates and twirl around the 6,000-square-foot outdoor ice skating rink. Stroll through the North Pole Village, delight in the Peppermint Parlor. Stop by the Queen Mary Village’s post office to send a letter to Santa. Take a spin on the Swinging Sleigh Ride, the Giant Rocking Horse or play Prancer’s Paintball for holiday thrills. Stop by the Gingerbread House to make your own edible creation, and visit Santa and Mrs. Claus at the Claus Cottage. Adults, $39.9954.99; kids (4-11), $29.99-44.99. Date special, $69.99, and Family-Pack Special, $149.99. Save $5 off general admission with promo code QMCHILL. 1126 Queens Hwy., Long Beach. (877) 342-0738. www.queenmary.com/chill. See ad on page 19. • Columbia Memorial Space Center A hands-on learning center that is dedicated to bringing the wonder and excitement of space science to children of all ages. It also serves as the national memorial for the Space Shuttle Columbia’s seven crew members, lost in 2003. The 20,000-squarefoot visitor center is equipped with not only amazing technology and visual teaching exhibits, but also constantly holds engaging classes and workshops. The Space Center also hosts the only Challenger Learning Center in the greater Los Angeles area, where you can: Return to the Moon, or go on a Voyage to Mars, and experience the real-life excitement of working in Mission Control or in the Spacecraft; available for field trips, team-building exercises and parties of 16 or more. Tuesday - Saturday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Closed Sundays and Mondays. $5 per person (4+). 12400 Columbia Way, Downey. (562) 231-1200. www.columbiaspacescience.org. See ad on page 51. • Discovery Cube Orange County Discovery Cube Orange County is filled with interactive and hands-on exhibits in themed areas including: Discovery Theater, Inspector Training Course, Boeing Rocket Lab, Eco Challenge, Science of Hockey, and more. Visitors will explore science like never before with a virtual earthquake, hurricane simulator, a cloud maker and more! Check out Winter Wonderfest, December 17 - January 8 and Science of Gingerbread that runs through January 1. There’s always something new to explore at the Cube! Field trips, outreach, special events, sleepovers, and teacher workshops are also available. 2500 North Main St., Santa Ana. (714) 5422823. www.discoverycube.org. See ad on page 5. • Pirate’s Dinner Adventure In the spirit of the holidays, join Pirate’s Dinner Adventure’s “Pirates Take Christmas” for a night of fun
and adventure, as they bring a holiday twist to the high seas. Help cheer on Santa to save Christmas! Scoundrel pirates have captured Santa and Mrs. Claus, threatening an end to the holiday season, and disappointing all of the good girls and boys of the world. You and your family and a little holiday magic can help ensure Santa defeats the pirates and saves the season. Enjoy a delicious four-course meal served during the show. Buy one adult ticket at general admission and receive an additional ticket of equal or lesser value when you mention code KGBOGO16; good for shows through December 25, 2016; restrictions apply. 7600 Beach Blvd., Buena Park. (714) 690-1497. www.piratesdinneradventureca.com. See ad on page 9. • The Cirque Magique in Buena Park Run away to the circus, with The Cirque Magique. Join your hosts, Chuckles, Giggles, and Snickers the clowns for fun, laughs and excitement in their very own indoor Big Top Show. Enjoy a delicious brunch as their circus performers from around the world entertain you with their interactive, magical and hilariously entertaining acts. If you are looking for things to do in Orange County and to be entertained at a dinner theater fit for the whole family, then give them a call and start your adventure! Saturdays, noon and Sundays, 11 a.m.; please check-in 45 minutes early. 7600 Beach Blvd., Buena Park. (866) 439-2469. www.cirquemagiqueshow.com. See ad on page 23. • Fillmore & Western Railway Holiday Trains 364 Main St., Fillmore. (805) 524-2546. www.fwry. com. See ad on page 44. Christmas Tree Train - Weekends, November 26-27, December 3-4, 10-11: 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 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, $25; youth (4-12), $15; kids (2-3), $10. North Pole Express Train - Selected dates November 26 - December 26: Celebrate Christmas with a onehour 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 onsite so you can purchase unique holiday gifts. Train departs at 6 and 7:30 p.m.; additional 4:45 p.m. departures on December 19-23. Adults, $29; kids (2-12), $19. Santa Shopper Train - December 17-18: 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, $25; youth (4-12), $12; kids (2-3), $10. Dinner with Santa - December 19-20 and 23: 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. Monday and Tuesday, departs at 5:30 p.m. and returns at 7:30 p.m. Adults, $47; kids (2-12), $26. • Golf N’ Stuff December 1-31: With Golf N’ Stuff’s “North Pole Fun Pack,” the kids can enjoy two full hours unlimited use of: go-karts, bumper boats, Disk ‘O Thrill ride and kiddie train. Plus, enjoy one round of miniature golf, a cool cookie and a 12 oz. soda. All for just $18 per person (regularly $28; 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) 8689956. www.golfnstuff.com. See ad on page 45. • Glo Mini Golf Grab your passport and experience your dream vacation in 27 holes. All the wonders of the world are explored in this one-of-a-kind, glow-in-the-dark miniature golf course. Take a selfie at the Eiffel Tower, Great Wall of China or Amazon Jungle. Eight-foot murals surround you as you navigate through the map of global landmarks. Add the 3D glasses for a visual that’s better than IMAX. And check out Rockbot, a social jukebox that lets you pick the music playing at GLO right from your phone. $12; kids (3 and under), free. Party packages, too. 1299 Galleria at Tyler, Ste. E106, Riverside. (888) 896-8419. www. glominigolf.com/?kidsguide. See ad on page 43. • Holiday Skate Center Holiday Skate Center is one of the premier family fun entertainment centers in the Orange County area. They pride themselves on providing a clean, safe, friendly, and fun facility for your entire family. They offer skating for all ages, as well as birthday parties, private parties and fundraiser options. Call today to book your event! 175 N. Wayfield St., Orange. (714) 997-5515. www. holidayskate.com. See ad on page 14. Irvine Park Railroad Christmas Train December 1-23: Take a 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 Santa and have their photo taken with him too. 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, $12. Activity tickets, $5 each, or book of 15 for $60 (cannot be used for train ride). Parking, $3-7. Irvine Regional Park, Orange. (714) 997-3968. www.irvineparkrailroad.com
Adventure to Santa DreamWorks in Redondo Beach and Rancho Cucamonga Through December 24: An unforgettable journey inspired by a child’s most memorable experience of meeting Santa Claus. Families take a magical sleigh ride to the North Pole with the help of Kung-Fu Panda and his friends, combining ageold tradition of the holidays with ultra-modern technological wizardry. There is a virtual sleigh ride that transports guests to the North Pole to see Santa Claus as well as interactive activities for children and parents to enjoy along the way. Daily, visit website to reserve a day and time. Photo packages, $35-75. South Bay Galleria, 1815 Hawthorne Blvd., Redondo Beach; and Victoria Gardens, 1-15 and Foothill Blvd., Rancho Cucamonga. www.dreamplaceexperience.com L.A. Zoo Lights and Reindeer Romp at the Los Angeles Zoo Through January 8: With the flick of a switch, the zoo is set aglow with breathtaking displays. Guests enjoy a disco-ball forest, glittering twinkle tunnels, 3-D animated projections, and a laser show set to music with interactive photo-op and a new waterfall feature in the Children’s Zoo. Daily, except Christmas Eve and Christmas. Adults, $9-14+; kids (2-12), $9-11+. 5333 Zoo Drive. (323) 644-4200. www.lazoolights.org San Diego Zoo Jungle Bells December 10-23, 25-31 and January 1-2: The San Diego Zoo’s annual winter celebration is filled with holiday cheer! 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. Included with zoo admission. 2920 Zoo Drive, San Diego. (619) 2311515. www.sandiegozoo.org 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. Adults, $59; kids (4-12), $49. Kids ages 3 and under are free. 28950 California 18, Skyforest. (909) 744-9373. www.skyparksantasvillage.com Train to Santa’s Workshop in Perris December 2-4, 9-11 and 16-18: Embark on a magical train ride and visit with Santa Claus himself at his North Pole workshop. Ride the train where elves 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. 2201 S. A St., Perris. (951) 9433020. www.oerm.org Winter Fest OC in Costa Mesa December 16 - January 1: Winter Fest is coming to town, blowing tons of family fun into the OC Fair and Event Center. Winter Fest features a full outdoor ice rink, 130-foot, six-lane Snowflake Summit ice slide, a new-for-2016 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. An entirely new Festival of Lights walk-through holiday light show features more than two million sparkling lights. Daily, check the website for times. $15-30. 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa. www. winterfestoc.com Winter Zoobilation at Santa Ana Zoo December 1-31: The Santa Ana 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) 9538555. www.santaanazoo.org
Theme Parks Disneyland and California Adventure Through January 6, enjoy holiday festivities such as the Christmas Fantasy Parade, It’s a Small World and Haunted Mansion Holiday, Paint the Night parade, and Disney Viva Navidad Street Party at California Adventure Park. 1313 Disneyland Drive, Anaheim. www.disneyland.com Knott’s Berry Farm Through January 8, enjoy “Merry Christmas, Snoopy!” on Ice, “Christmas Time is Here, 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, write letters to Santa with milk and cookies, visit with Santa, and seasonal treats. 8039 Beach Blvd., Buena Park. www.knotts.com Legoland Holidays at Legoland, November 25 - January 1, plus a New Year’s Eve kids’ celebration. One Legoland Drive, Carlsbad. www.legoland.com SeaWorld Wintery Wonderland, November 19 - January 1, features holiday attractions, including Santa’s Cottage, reindeer and a Christmas Village. www. seaworldsandiego.com Six Flags Magic Mountain A winter wonderland with thousands of lights, carolers and personalized meet-and-greets with Santa and his helpers. Seasonal goodies, including hot chocolate, cider, custom fudge, and holiday-inspired funnel cake flavors. 26101 Magic Mountain Pkwy., Valencia. www. sixflags.com Universal Studios Hollywood During the Christmas holiday, Grinchmas takes over the park with celebrity story times, tree lightings and snow, December 3 - January 1. 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City. www.universalstudioshollywood.com.
Tabby Theater. 7111 Talbert Ave., Huntington Beach. (714) 842-4481. www.hbpl.org • Holiday Skate Center’s Christmas Special December 21 - January 10: Enjoy Holiday Skate’s Christmas Special, where two can skate for the price of one during Winter Break. Must use coupon on page 14 of Kidsguide’s Holiday Guide to redeem deal. 175 N. Wayfield St., Orange. (714) 997-5515. www.holidayskate.com.
Gingerbread House Making in Long Beach December 17: Join gingerbread house making with Wild Child. Saturday, 1-3 p.m. Call for details and fees. Wild Child, 306 Cerritos Ave., Long Beach. www.wildchildparty.com
ing, storytelling, and other family-friendly fun. Families of all backgrounds are welcome! Sunday, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Adults, $10; kids (under 12), free. 2701 N. Sepulveda Blvd., Los Angeles. (310) 440-4500. www.skirball.org
Christmas Festivities at Farmers Market LA December 18-24: 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
Winter Break Crafts at Mission San Juan Capistrano December 19-30: Kids (6-12) enjoy special winter break activities at the Mission, including panning for gold, adobe brick making and arrowhead necklace making. Monday - Friday, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. $5 per craft or $10 for three crafts, in addition to admission. No crafts December 24 or 25. 26801 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano. (949) 234-1315. www.missionsjc.com
Kids Bop Kids Life of the Party Tour at the Grove of Anaheim December 18: The kids’ music brand is taking its 15th birthday celebration on the road. The biggest pop songs of the year and awesome new dance moves. Sunday, 5 p.m. $25. 2200 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim. www. citynationalgroveofanaheim.com Holiday Festival at the Muckenthaler December 18: 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 International Day with Critters at Santa Ana Zoo December 18: International Holiday with the Critters featuring festive decorations, international stations, crafts, animals and music. Gift shop discounts. Saturday, noon - 3 p.m. Included with admission. 1801 Chestnut Ave., Santa Ana. (714) 953-8555. www.santaanazoo.org Hanukkah Family Festival at Skirball December 18: This year’s festival honors the light of creativity and hope that helps the whole community achieve great things together. Revel in the spirit of the holiday with music, dance, printmak48 kidsguide holiday guide 2016
Pennypickle’s Polar Express in Temecula December 19: Moms and dads, enjoy some “alone time” during this busy season while your PJ-and-robe-clad child (5-10) boards Professor Pennypickle’s Polar Express for fun activities and adventures! You may send food and drinks for your child if you wish. Saturday, 5:30-7:30 p.m. $25. 42081 Main St., Temecula. (951) 308-6376. www.pennypickles.org Fly with Santa at Bowers Kidseum in Santa Ana December 20-23: Santa will roll up to Kidseum on his motorcycle at 11 a.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, 11 a.m. - noon. Included with Kidseum admission. 1802 N. Main St., Santa Ana. (714) 4801520. www.bowers.org Holiday Magic Show at Huntington Beach Central Library December 20: Join a free holiday show full of “interactive magic,” giving the audience a chance to participate in the magic tricks. Tuesday, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. First-come, first-seated.
• Winter Solstice Celebration at Pretend City Children’s Museum 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 through cool activities and art projects. Wednesday, visit their website for schedule. Included with admission. 29 Hubble, Irvine. (949) 428-3900. www.pretendcity.org. See ad on page 50. Cookies and Stories with Mrs. Claus at Children’s Museum at La Habra December 22: Sweet Mrs. Claus is coming for a visit to read stories and share cookies with visitors. Visitors are encouraged to come in their jammies. Saturday, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Included with admission. 301 S. Euclid St., La Habra. (562) 383-4236. www.lhcm.org Ornament and Card-Making Fun at Huntington Beach Central Library December 22: Make fun ornaments for their tree and a special card for the unexpected house guest. Thursday, 2-4 p.m. Free to attend. Tabby Theater. 7111 Talbert Ave., Huntington Beach. (714) 842-4481. www.hbpl.org Screening of Babe at the Skirball in LA December 22: Join a movie adventure with Babe. Thursday, 1 p.m. included with admission. 2701 N. Sepulveda Blvd., Los Angeles. (310) 440-4500. www.skirball.org Holiday Movie Morning Marathon at Huntington Beach Central Library December 23 and 30: Stay all day watching fun holiday movies. Friday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Free to attend. 7111 Talbert Ave., Huntington Beach. (714) 842-4481. www.hbpl.org Musical Chanukah Shabbat Dinner at the Alpert JCC December 23: 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) 4267601. www.alpertjcc.org lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com
Welcome Exceptional Education with Christ at the Center Admissions Open House Days High School January 21, 2017 2:00pm
Middle School January 21, 2017 12:00pm
Elementary School February 4, 2017 10:00am
Learn more at vcschools.org or plan an Educational Success Consultation and tour @ 562.860.0557
FREE
Introductory Art Class Huntington Beach location coming soon!
lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com
kidsguide holiday guide 2016 49
Los Posadas on Olvera Street in Los Angeles December 24: This presentation of the journey of Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem is portrayed with singing, dancing, a candlelight procession on Olvera Street and children’s piñata breaking. Saturday 5:30-8:30 p.m. Free to attend. Olvera St., Los Angeles. www.olvera-street.com • Extended Skate Session at East West Ice Palace December 24 - January 7: For winter break, East West Ice Palace will be extending their public-session hours and celebrating the holi-
Unwrap the
days with festive decorations and music. Come and join 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 17. • Hooray for Chanukah at Pretend City Children’s Museum December 24 - January 1: 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 through games, finger-play rhymes, art proj-
Christmas Countdown Hooray for Chanukah Festival of Kwanzaa Celebrate Las Posadas Santa Claus Visits Snow-tastic Art Projects Don’t miss our Annual Noon Years Confetti Countdown Countdown celebrations at 10 AM, 12 PM, 2 PM, and 4 PM!
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www.pretendcity.o
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• Begin a Holiday Tradition with a Round of Mini Golf at Golf N’ Stuff December 25: Bring family and friends for Christmas fun at Golf N’ Stuff. They offer challenging miniature golf and exciting rides, including go-karts, bumper boats, Disk ‘O Thrill ride and kiddie train. Plus, be sure to utilize their “North Pole Fun Pack,” just $18 (regularly $28), offered throughout December. 10555 E. Firestone Blvd., Norwalk. (562) 868-9956. www. golfnstuff.com. See ad on page 45.
Hanukkah Celebration at Farmers Market LA December 27: Celebrate Hanukkah 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
Celebrate the magic of the holidays all season
©2016 Pretend City Children’s Museum.
• Chanukah Storytime and Menorah Lighting in Huntington Beach December 25: Come enjoy stories, songs, arts and crafts, gelt and lots more! Sunday, festivities begin at noon. Hebrew Academy Preschool, 14401 Willow Lane, Huntington Beach. RSVP by text to (714) 863-0757. www.hebrewacademypreschool.org. See ad on page 24.
• Festival of Kwanzaa at Pretend City December 26-30: 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!” Monday - Friday, visit their website for daily schedule. Included with admission. 29 Hubble, Irvine. (949) 428-3900. www.pretendcity.org. See ad on this page.
Gift of Play
29 Hubble | Irvine, CA 92618 | 949.428.3900
ects and more. Daily, visit their website for schedule. Included with admission. 29 Hubble, Irvine. (949) 428-3900. www.pretendcity.org. See ad on this page.
Chanukah Story Time in Huntington Beach December 27: Children come in their PJs for a special Chanukah story time. Dreidels and gelt for all kids. Tuesday, 7 p.m. Free. Huntington Beach Central Library, 7111 Talbert Ave., Huntington Beach. (714) 863-0757. www.hbpl.org Open House at Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary December 27-29: Join Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary for a day of fun, education and adventure, including guided nature walks, nature crafts, free hot apple cider, cookies, and staff meetand-greets. Tuesday - Thursday, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Free. 29322 Modjeska Canyon, Silverado. (714) 649-2760. www.tuckerwildlife.org lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com
Menorah Lighting in Newport Beach December 28: Join the OC’s largest Menorah Lighting Ceremony with Rabbi Mintz. Wednesday, 5:30 p.m. Free. 401 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach. (949) 721-2000. www. shopfashionisland.com Menorah Lighting in Belmont Shore December 28: Enjoy Chanukah Grand Menorah Lighting, kosher BBQ, raffles, music, latkas and donuts, plus Chanukah crafts. Sponsored by Belmont Shore Business Association and Shul by the Shore. Wednesday, 5 p.m. Free. 5254 E. 2nd St., Long Beach. (562) 621-9828. www.shulbytheshore.org
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 Tournament of Roses Bandfest in Pasadena December 30-31: Bandfest features the prizewinning bands of the 2017 Rose Parade performing their field shows. Three shows over two days give everyone a chance to see these talented musicians, dancers and auxiliary performers in action. Friday, 1:30 p.m.; Saturday, 9:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. Pasadena City College football stadium. $15; kids 5 and under, free.
1570 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. (626) 7954171. www.tournamentofroses.com Hap-Pea All-Year Story Time at Barnes and Noble Long Beach December 31: Just in time for New Year’s, the peas from the bestselling LMNO Peas are back for more fun. This time exploring the months of the year. Saturday, 11 a.m. Free to attend. 6326 E. Pacific Coast Hwy., Long Beach. (562) 431-2253. www.barnesandnoble.com Kidseum New Year’s Celebration in Santa Ana December 31: Celebrate the New Year with
Kids Paint Day at Signal Hill Library December 28: Kids (9-12) paint a picture on canvas. All materials will be supplied. Wednesday, 2-4 p.m. Register by calling or visiting the library. 1780 E. Hill St., Signal Hill. (562) 9897323. www.cityofsignalhill.org/library Pokemon Coloring for Kids at Huntington Beach Central Library December 29: Join the fun of the Pokemon craze and color your favorite character’s picture. Thursday, 10 a.m. - noon. Free to attend. 7111 Talbert Ave., Huntington Beach. (714) 842-4481. www.hbpl.org Screening of March of the Penguins at Skirball in LA December 29: Bring the family and get chilly with the emperor penguins in this Academy Award-winning film. Experience a journey that spans hundreds of miles across a frozen continent. This is the incredible true story of a family’s quest to bring new life into the world. Thursday, 1 p.m. Included with admission. 2701 N. Sepulveda Blvd., Los Angeles. (310) 440-4500. www.skirball.org • Parent’s Night Out and New Year’s Celebration with Lil’ Chefs December 30: Parents enjoy a night out, while your kids (3+) enjoy making their own pizza dinner from scratch, including three yummy toppings, along with Black and White cookies for dessert. Kids will have a pre-New Year’s Eve Celebration, complete with hats, blowers and New Year’s Punch to drink! Friday, 5:30-9:30 p.m. $45; $20 per sibling. Children must be potty trained. 15435 Jeffery Road., #132, Irvine. (949) 679-8390. www.lilchefschool.com. See ad on page 16. Equestfest with the Tournament of Roses December 30: Get up close and personal with the 2017 Rose Parade equestrian units at Equestfest. Watch horses and riders perform drills and dances. Stroll through the stables, talk to riders and learn about the various tack and breeds. Plus, vendor court, displays, great music, food and lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com
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Spotlight • Hot New Release Amazon Children’s Books: Where Do You Live, Animal Friend? www.llaurabullock.com From a blue bird in a tree, to an orange octopus in the sea, how different all their homes can be! Perfect for young readers ages 0-5. Older children enjoy reading the book out loud to their younger siblings. Makes a great gift! See ad on page 57. • Kidnastics Quality Gymnastics and Cheerleading Training Center 10712 Reagan St., Los Alamitos (562) 431-1102 www.kidnastics.net Kidnastics has been pleased to offer quality gymnastics instruction for over 37 years. As a recreational gymnastics and cheerleading facility with over 23,000 square feet of full-line gymnastics equipment and various levels of spring floors, they offer nothing but the best instructional classes for your children. Here, children learn all levels of gymnastics and cheer. 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. They offer a variety of classes for children 12 months through the teen years. Programs include Totnastics, their early motor development and coordination classes designed for children 12-36 months, and gymnastics and tumbling classes for ages 3 years and up. In addition to their great gymnastics program, they also offer competitive cheer programs: HSC All Stars for ages 4 years and up, plus their seasonal summer day camps. Visit the website or call the number listed for more program information. See ad on page 53. • Lice Clinics of America 4012 Katella Ave., Ste. 104, Los Alamitos 2050 Artesia Blvd., Ste. 103, Torrance (800) 920-LICE (5423) www.LiceClinicsLosAlamitos.com www.LiceClinicsSouthBay.com Lice Clinics of America is the largest network of lice treatment centers in the world. The Los Alamitos and South Bay Clinics are the exclusive regional provider of the AirAllé, a revolutionary, FDA-cleared medical device that uses heated air to kill lice and their eggs in a single, one-hour treatment so powerful that they can guarantee the results for 30 days! No toxic chemicals, no pesticides, no followup appointments, no at-home combing, no
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hourly rates or extra charges. They offer a flat, per person rate, 100% lice-free-guarantee. Email: Ihatelice@liceclinicslosalamitos.com, Ihatelice@liceclinicssouthbay.com. See ad on page 39. • South Coast Rep Youth 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 10. Learn more and sign up for classes at www.scr.org or call (714) 708-5577. See ad on page 54. • Southern California Tennis Academy 2800 N. Studebaker Road, Long Beach (562) 704-2241 www.sctennisacademy.com The Southern California Tennis Academy Developmental Program is for beginning to intermediate players, ages 5-16. All players learn proper stroke fundamentals and footwork patterns, which prepares each athlete for eventual tournament and competitive play. All players are separated into their appropriate level and work with coaches from the academy’s high-performance workout. The year-round after-school program runs Monday - Friday 5-7 p.m. Winter camps run weekly, Monday - Friday, 9 a.m. noon. For more information, visit the website at www.tinyurl.com/sctawinter or email Brittnie Furuvald at brittnie@sctennisacademy.com. See ad on page 27. • 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 10 and 17. See ad on page 15.
Kidseum! Craft the day away with fun New Year’s-themed projects, including confetti poppers and noisemakers. The kiddos practice countdowns every hour on the hour, beginning at noon. In the Glow Cave, make glowing wish wands. Saturday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.; 3 p.m., a balloon drop takes place in the center of Kidseum. Included with admission. 2002 N. Main St., Santa Ana. (714) 550-0906. www.bowers.org Family New Year’s Eve Party at Cal Bowl in Lakewood December 31: Join Cal Bowl for a fun familyfriendly New Year’s Eve with bowling, drawing for prizes, pizza, soda and Tutti Frutti Yogurt Bar. Saturday, 5-7:30 p.m. $25.95 per person; $129.99 per lane (up to 6 people per lane). 2500 E. Carson St., Lakewood. (562) 4218448. www.calbowl.com New Year’s Noon Party in La Habra December 31:The whole family celebrates the countdown to 12 o’clock noon! Complete with hat making, face painting, dancing, and a balloon drop. Saturday, 10 a.m. - noon. Reservations required. Please call to RSVP. Free to CMLH members and visitors with paid admission. 301 S. Euclid St., La Habra. (562) 3834236. www.lhcm.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. Saturday, 8 p.m. - 1 a.m. Free. www.downtownlongbeach.org First Night 2017 in Fullerton December 31: The City of Fullerton celebrates the 25th anniversary of the annual “First Night Fullerton.” Enjoy kids activities, rides, live entertainment, food vendors, roaming entertainment and a fireworks show at midnight. Saturday, 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 NYELA New Year’s Eve LA at Grand Park December 31: For the fourth year, Grand Park + The Music Center’s NYELA 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. Saturday, 8 p.m. - 1 a.m. Free. Downtown Los Angeles. www.grandparkla.org lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com
Noon Year’s Eve at Kidspace December 31: Experience the balloon drop at noon, sip and toast cups of sparkling cider, and create your own party hats and noisemakers to ring in 2017. Dance as you count down to the stroke of noon. Saturday, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Included with admission. 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena. (626) 449-9144. www.kidspacemuseum.org Kids’ New Year’s Eve Celebration at Legoland California December 31: “Midnight” comes early for families at Legoland California Resort, with a re-creatation of the Times Square ball drop with a giant Lego brick falling 22 feet in the air. 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. Saturday, begins at 2 p.m. One Legoland Drive, Carlsbad. (760) 918-5346. www.california.legoland.com
the Pacific Ocean. Be sure to wear your bathing suit. No wetsuits - that’s cheating! Sunday, registration and pancake breakfast, 9-11 a.m.; splash at noon. Registration $20, benefits Huntington Beach International Surfing Museum. Participants receive breakfast and a certificate of appreciation. 405 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach. www.hbsurfcitysplash.com Polar Bear Plunge in La Mirada January 1: Be among the first in 2017 to bravely plunge down the waterslides of Buccaneer Bay into the chilly catch pool. Adventurers receive a photo, plus admission to recreational swim-
ming in the heated 25 yard pool. Hot chocolate, coffee and mochas will also be available for purchase. Sunday, 2-4 p.m. Splash! La Mirada, 13806 La Mirada Blvd., La Mirada. (562) 9023191. www.splashlamirada.com Polar Bear Plunge in San Pedro January 1: Join the Cabrillo Beach Polar Bears for the first swim of the year, plus the crowning of their new king and queen. After a brief swim or dip, everyone gets a certificate, plus treats. Sunday, noon. Cabrillo Beach Bathhouse, 3800 Stephen M. White Drive, San Pedro. (310) 5487554. www.cabrillobeachpolarbears.com
Family New Year’s Eve at LA Zoo December 31: Celebrate the New Year in style with express entry to LA 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 with complimentary champagne for adults (21+) and sparkling apple cider for kids. Cash bar available. After the party, families are welcome to enjoy Zoo Lights until closing. Saturday, 6 p.m. Adults, $69; kids (2-12), $45. 5333 Zoo Drive, Los Angeles. (323) 644-4200. www.lazoolights.org • 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! Saturday, confetti launches at 10 a.m., noon, 2 and 4 p.m. Included with admission. 29 Hubble, Irvine. (949) 428-3900. www.pretendcity.org. See ad on page 50. New Year’s Eve Family Musical Revue in Santa Monica December 31: Enjoy a complimentary buffet supper followed by family-friendly Rudie-DeCarlo musical revue, with prizes, sing-alongs, dancing in the aisles, humor and other delights culled from five decades of audience favorites. Saturday, 6 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Adults, $49.5069.50; kids (under 12), $29.50-39.50. 1211 4th St., Santa Monica. (310) 394-9779. www. santamonicaplayhouse.com Surf City Splash 2017 at Huntington Beach Pier January 1: Celebrate the New Year with a dip into lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com
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Tournament of Roses Parade January 2: The 128th Rose Parade features floral floats, spirited marching bands and highstepping equestrian units along the 5.5-mile route. Monday, 8-11 a.m. Grandstand seating available for purchase. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. www.tournamentofroses.com Rose Parade Float Showcase in Pasadena January 2-3: Walk within feet of the masterpieces, and take a closer look at the design and workmanship that went into each float and learn more about the float process from Tournament volunteers on hand. Comfortable shoes
and early arrival are suggested. Rain or shine. Monday, 1-4 p.m.; Tuesday, 9 a.m. 4 p.m. $13. Sierra Madre and Washington boulevards, Pasadena. www.tournamentofroses.com
a dynamic drumming performance by Taikoproject and more. Sunday, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Free. 100 N. Central Ave., Los Angeles. (213) 6250414. www.janm.org
Oshogatsu Family Festival in LA January 8: Celebrate the Year of the Rooster with cultural activities and performances, foods and crafts. Start your new year off with a free bowl of lucky zaru soba (cold buckwheat noodles), while supplies last. See Shan the Candyman create rooster candy sculptures, which will be raffled off. Watch Kodama Taiko perform a traditional mochitsuki (Japanese rice pounding ritual). Enjoy
• Peter Pan - The High Flying Adventure in Long Beach January 13-15 and 20-22: Fun-filled musical adventure with lost boys, high-stepping pirates, the delightfully dangerous Captain Hook and the perennial charm of the boy who won’t grow up— Peter Pan. Friday - Sunday, see website for times. CSULB’s University Theater. (562) 355-2004. www.yayasacademy.com. See ad on page 29. • Morgan’s Journey at The Wallis January 21-22: A captivating exploration of joyous, yet challenging, childhood experiences, and offers active participation. Follow Morgan the Clown on a journey of discovery; delight in the wise sock puppet who becomes his companion. Encountering inevitable growing pains, Morgan learns a valuable and moving lesson about love and the true meaning of friendship. Recommended for ages 4-8. 9390 N. Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills. (310) 746-4000. www. thewallis.org. See ad on page 7. • Valley Christian Schools - Open Houses January 21 and February 4: High School open house, January 21, 2 p.m.: administrators and students will share about the VC vision on curriculum; tour the campus and meet teachers. Middle School open house, January 21, noon: VCMS offers an extraordinary education where students from Christian families develop academically, spiritually, athletically and emotionally. Elementary School (Bellflower campus) open house, February 4, 10 a.m.: VCES focuses on educating growing students in character, Biblical Worldview and top curriculum. Valley Christian Preschool, a joyful and wonderful place for infant through pre-kindergarten age, offers tours daily. (562) 263-3030. 17700 Dumont Ave., Cerritos. www.vcschools.org. See ad on page 49. • Dan Zanes at The Wallis January 29: Dan Zanes occupies a unique place in American music where sea shanties, English music hall, West Indian folk music, play-party songs and the spirit of early rock ‘n roll and soulful originals collide. Dan Zanes and Friends return to The Wallis with their bilingual English and Spanish concert for all ages. The Grammy Award-winner has toured the world sharing handmade 21st-century social music with enthusiastic crowds of kids and kids-at-heart. His widely-acclaimed music has been featured on Sesame Street, Playhouse Disney, Nickelodeon and more. Sunday, 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. 9390 N. Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills. (310) 246-3800. www. TheWallis.org. See ad on page 7.
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lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com
Winter Camps • Acting Out - Winter Camps (562) 901-0111 www.actingoutcamp.com Make new friends at Acting Out Theater’s winter camp. Each day offers a different workshop for kids (ages 7-13) including scene study, improvisational games and activities, character work, ensemble building, audition techniques and much more. Unique material is covered in each session, so sign your child up for one or both weeks—receive a discount when you register for both sessions! Session 1: December 27-29, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Session 2: January 1-4, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. Both camps run 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Full-day option may be offered, depending on interest and availability, please inquire. Call today to reserve your child’s spot! Email:actingoutcamp@yahoo.com. See ad on page 45. Alpert JCC Camps 3801 E. Willow St., Long Beach (562) 426-7601, Ext. 1205 www.alpertjcc.org
lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com
When schools out, the AJCC is the place to be. TK - 8th graders spend winter break at camp! Program includes exciting daily themes, swimming, sports, arts and crafts, and more. Covers LBUSD school vacation days. 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. each day; extended hours available. Visit their website for more information and pricing.
Sea Squirt Camp, kids (5-6) discover the underwater world of sea creatures, December 22-24; and Winter Day Camp (7-12), a marine life exploration through behind-the-scenes tours, interaction with aquarium staff, games, crafts and hands-on time with sea animals—all documented in a keepsake camp journal, December 29-31.
Anaheim Community Services (714) 765-5219 www.anaheim.net/ezrecconnect CampVenture Day Camp (6-13) - Activities include crafts, movies, science, cooking, sports, and weekly excursion. December 19-23, Let it Snow; December 26-30, Imagine This; and January 2-6, Adventureland. 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.; extended hours, 7:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. Fees start at $54.
Art Smart Studio for Kids - Winter Camps 3823 E 7th St., Long Beach (562) 439-4777 www.artsmartstudioforkids.com/camps December 26-30, Things That Fly, Roar and Growl; and January 2-6, Big, Bigger, Biggest Sculpture Camp, 830 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Three days, $145; four days, $160; and five days, $190.
Aquarium of the Pacific Winter Camp Adventures 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach (562) 590-1630 www.aquariumofpacific.org Aquarium of the Pacific offers two winter camps:
• Art Steps 18212 Imperial Hwy. Yorba Linda (714) 524-2248 24000 Alicia Pkwy., #31 Mission Viejo (949) 454-9555 www.artstepsclasses.com Fine art day camps in Mission Viejo and
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Schools & Tutoring • Club Z! In Home Tutoring Services (562) 206-2501 www.clubztutoring.com/longbeach Club Z! In-Home Tutoring Services, the world’s largest in-home tutoring program, tutors all subjects and all ages. Offering one-on-one instruction in your home and flexible scheduling for the busiest students, their tutors enrich, maintain and/or remediate reading, writing, math and science skills, organization/study skills, foreign languages, SAT/ACT prep, college assistance, and kindergarten readiness. All tutors are certified teachers or degreed professionals who customize programs for students using their schools’ curriculum. Club Z recently launched Z Prep! Online Tutoring. Students and tutors work one-on-one, face-to-face in private tutoring sessions on a brand new virtual learning platform with pen and paper-like capabilities. Online tutors accommodate even the busiest academic, work or athletic schedules. Club Z! offers affordable rates, flexible scheduling, and tutoring in the convenience of your home! Call or visit their website. See ad on page 34. • The Hebrew Academy Preschool 14401 Willow Lane, Huntington Beach (714) 863-0757 www.hebrewacademypreschool.org Preschoolers experience a rich program in a loving Judaic environment where developmentally appropriate academics are taught together with the skills and knowledge that will become their foundation for all future education. Their teachers are experienced and caring professionals, who provide a happy and stimulating program in a safe and secure setting. Freeway close and conveniently located. Core preschool hours are from 8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. with a choice of half day or partial week and extended care from 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. Please call for more information. See ad on page 24. • IvyCrest Montessori 2025 E. Chapman Ave., Fullerton (714) 879-6091 www.ivycrest.org Widely recognized for academic excellence, IvyCrest Montessori private school has been familyowned and operated since 1970. Their programs for infants, toddlers, primary and elementary-age children are conducted in a warm, loving, nurturing environment. AMS credentialed Montessori teachers and caregivers invest themselves fully in your child’s personal and academic development. They also feature a School of the Arts program for students to learn music, dance, athletics, science, STEM, fine art, cooking, Lego engineering, and foreign languages. Their Integrated Arts After-School Program allows students from nearby public schools to participate in the arts. See ad on page 35.
• Kid Works Children’s Center 3621 E. Broadway, Long Beach (562) 438-4904 www.kidworkscc.com Kid Works offers preschool, pre-k, pre-k enrichment and after-school “Spanish Dual Immersion” kindergarten programs. Curriculum and environment are designed to stimulate, challenge, and allow children time and space to work. Kid Works’ definition of the child’s day of work is “Play with a Purpose.” Everything they do or offer children has a purpose, which is key to the child’s development. Children learn through hands-on experiences, whether gardening, cooking or painting. The staff is dedicated to the idea that children develop and learn best in an atmosphere that is warm, safe, encouraging, understanding, motivating and fun! Visit their website for detailed information, including daily activity schedules. Email: kidworkscc@hotmail.com. See ad on page 28. • 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 languagebased 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 on page 8. • Valley Christian Schools Cerritos area (562) 860-0556 www.vcschools.org At Valley Christian you’ll find an inescapable link between excellence in education and a Biblical Worldview. 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 welcome 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. Also see page 54 for open house dates. See ad on page 49.
Yorba Linda, offered in half-day and full-day options, can include media, cartooning, clay, art history, figure drawing and portraiture, still-life study, Anime and more. See ad on page 49. • Boys and Girls Clubs of Huntington Valley Huntington Beach (714) 374-2600 Fountain Valley-Kingston (714) 531-2582 Golden West College (714) 899-5900 www.tinyurl.com/bgcwintercamp During winter break, the Boys and Girls Club offers the same outstanding programs and activities as their normal before- and afterschool program in an extended full-day format giving children in grades K-8 lots of activities to choose from: computer learning centers, sports, arts and crafts, cooking, and indoor and outdoor games. In addition, special events, a lunch program, daily field trips, and much more are offered to keep children engaged and having fun! Dedicated spaces with age-appropriate programs and activities are designed for kindergartners and preteens. December 19-30, Monday - Friday, 6:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. Locations: 2309 Delaware St., Huntington Beach; 16582 Brookhurst St., Fountain Valley; and Golden West College (Gothard and Center entrance), Huntington Beach. See ad on page 25. Boys and Girls Clubs 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) during school breaks. See Youth and Family Groups at www. tinyurl.com/youthfamgroups for information on vacation drop-in programs and club locations. Boy Scouts of Long Beach Winter Camp 5875 Appian Way, Long Beach (562) 427-0911, Ext. 211 www.longbeachbsa.org/seabase Winter Tech Camp for scouts (10-17) and friends. Play with robots, design games and earn merit badges in Robotics, Space Exploration, Inventing, Digital Technology, Programming, Game Design and more. Build It Workspace 4388 Cerritos Ave., Los Alamitos (714) 947-0800 www.buildit.ws These full-day, weekly camps inspire young makers (6+) to tinker at the intersection of design, technology and art. Developed by engineers and designed to emphasize the practical applications of science and tech, camps can include Build It’s: Fashionista in Yarns and Fabrics, and Techie Jewelry; Skate Park; Moviemaking Studio; Coding Space Invader; Junior Lego; Moving Art; and others. lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com
Center Stage Studio Winter Camp 27101 Aliso Creek Rd., #136, Aliso Viejo (949) 305-9758 www.thecenterstagestudio.com Musical Theater Camp (6-12) features Star Wars the Musical, December 27-30, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.; show on Friday, $250. Costa Mesa Community Services (714) 754-5300, (714) 754-5083 www.costamesaca.gov Winter Camp (grades K-6) - Games, skits, arts and crafts, and sports. December 27-30 and January 3-6, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., extended hours, 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. $136-165 per week. Limited spots fill up quickly. Elevation Studios’ Winter Break Intensive 1900 E. 27th St., #101, Signal Hill (562) 424-2711 www.elevationstudios.com Intensive dance program during winter break, December 28-29. Intermediate to advance levels for ages 10 and up. Fullerton Parks and Recreation (714) 738-6575 www.fullertoneconnect.com Hillcrest Winter Day Camp - Kids (5-12) get active outdoors and explore, create and learn through various arts, crafts and enrichment projects. De-
cember 19-30, $125-185. Camp runs 10 a.m. 4 p.m., with extended hours, 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. Gryphon Fencing and Fitness Studio 971 Via Rodeo, Placentia (714) 519-1343 www.GryphonFencing.com Go from Zero to Zorro! Vacation-break camps will teach your child the sport of fencing. In the popular Go Medieval Camp, kids learn archery, fencing and build a working catapult. Camps offer the chance to have fun, meet new friends, learn new skills and build confidence. Email: info@gryphonfencing.com. International Water Polo Club Los Alamitos (949) 533-5216 www.internationalwaterpoloclub.com In their school-break camps, serving all communities, focus is on getting kids used to the water in a non-competitive environment. In their youth program, kids strengthen swimming skills and are taught the basic fundamentals of water polo in a fun, safe setting. Irvine Community Services (949) 724-6610 www.Irvinequickreg.org Winter camps, visit their website or call for details.
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Kick It Up 8125 and 8129 E. Wardlow Road, Long Beach (562) 430-1812 www.kickitup.com The following winter-break camps are offered December 19-23. Ages 3-7, 9 a.m. - noon, $105. Ages 8-13, 12:30-4:30 p.m., $140. Elsa’s Winter Adventure (3-7) - Camp brings to life the magical story of Frozen through song and dance! Your child will enjoy developing their character and singing their heart out to “Let It Go!” Camp day includes dance, vocal and acting technique, rehearsal, games, crafts and more. The week is concluded with a musical performance Friday afternoon for friends and family. A Descendants’ Winter - Camp brings to life the musical fantasy of Descendants, a story about the exiled children of defeated villains attending a prep school with the heroes’ children. Camp day includes dance, vocal and acting technique, rehearsal, games, crafts and more! The week is concluded with a musical performance Friday afternoon for friends and family. Lake Forest Community Services 25550 Commercentre Drive, Lake Forest (949) 273-6960 www.lakeforestca.gov Holiday Hoopla Rockin’ Winter Camp and Winter Adventure Camp, December 19-23 and 26-30. Call for details, ages and fees. Lakewood Recreation and Community Services (562) 866-9771, Ext. 2408 www.lakewoodcity.org/recreation Gymnastics, Yoga, and Art Winter Camp (413): December 26-28, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., $75. Elsa’s Winter Adventure Camp: December 1923, ages 3-7, 9 a.m. - noon; and ages 8-13, 12:30-4:30 p.m., $90. Mad Science (714) 668-9174 www.westorangecounty.madscience.org From building bridges and digging dinosaurs to readying rockets and cracking codes, kids in Mad Science camp participate in scientific explorations that are so much fun they forget they’re learning! My Gym Children’s Fitness Center Long Beach 3287 Industry Drive, Signal Hill (562) 986-0066 www.mygym.com/longbeach Children of all ages can enjoy a day of camp with hands-on arts and crafts, music, dance, games, and overall emphasis on learning solid skills and fundamentals in sports and gymnastics. Winter camps, December 27 - January 58 kidsguide holiday guide 2016
5. Tuesdays, 12:30-4:30 p.m.; Wednesdays, 1:45-4:45 p.m.; Thursdays, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m., and Fridays, 2:15-5:15 p.m. Call for prices. On Stage Music Academy 2221 Palo Verde Ave., Long Beach (562) 598-0111 www.onstagemusicacademy.com On Stage Music Academy offers winter music camps designed for young musicians (812 and 13-16) of all levels. For the beginner musician, they offer music exploration. And for experienced musicians, they offer music intensive camps. Rancho Rio Verde Horsemanship Camp 1000 W. Carson St., Long Beach (310) 830-2060, (714) 624-5754 www.rrvridingclub.com Small group instruction in riding and vaulting (gymnastics on horseback). Each camper has a horse to care for during the week. Horsemanship skills are taught by qualified instructors. Ask about their two-day beginner camps for moms and dads. Call to sign up today! Sandie Mercer Ranch at Lakewood Equestrian Center 11369 Carson St., Lakewood (562) 425-1905 Weekly extended lesson program at Shady Acres for ages 7-16. Learn all about horses; horseback riding two times daily. Weekly sessions, 9 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Enrollment is limited. Sewing Lab Los Alamitos 4215 Katella Ave., Los Alamitos (562) 296-8021 www.sewinglablosalamitos.com Fun and friendly sewing day camp for boys and girls (grades 2+) during winter break. • Skatedogs’ Winter Break Camp (714) 313-8787 www.skatedogs.com Whether you are just learning or ready to learn advanced tricks, this camp is right for you! Make new friends, advance your 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. December 26-30: Huntington Beach Sports Complex, 9 a.m. - noon, $167, register at www.tinyurl.com/skatedogshb. December 27-30: Irvine University Community Park, 8:30-11:30 a.m., $120, register at www.tinyurl.com/skatedogsirvine See ad on page 48.
• Southern California Tennis Academy Holiday Camps 2800 N. Studebaker Road, Long Beach (562) 704-2241 www.sctennisacademy.com The SC Tennis Academy is hosting two weeks of Developmental Holiday Camps. Camps run December 26-30 and January 2-6, 9 a.m. noon. The Developmental Camp is for beginning to intermediate players, ages 5-16. They learn proper stroke fundamentals and footwork patterns with the highest quality of instructors. This program prepares each player for eventual tournament and competitive play. Each day consists of a 15 minute warm-up, drop-feeds, games, service drills and music games to finish the day. There is a snack break also provided in the middle of the day. Snacks, water and Gatorade provided for all participants. For more information, visit their website at www. tinyurl.com/sctawinter or email Brittnie Furuvald at brittnie@sctennisacademy.com. See ad on page 27. 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 Camps kids have fun! Campers learn robotics and game design while strengthening their math, reading and writing skills. Tom Hicks Baseball Camps (562) 425-2446 www.tomhicksbaseballcamps.com Camps, offered during Christmas vacation, focus on individual instruction and improvement. Camps are available in Long Beach and the surrounding areas. Visit their website for dates. Valter Paiva Junior Tennis Camps Billie Jean King Tennis Center 1040 Park Ave., Long Beach (562) 266-8882 www.valtertennis.com The Junior Tennis Camp program offers training sessions for beginners to college-level players (ages 5-18). All coaches are USPTA-certified. This is the opportunity for kids to have loads of fun while discovering and enjoying the game of tennis and learning valuable skills. Full-day and half-day camps. Early drop-off and late-pick available upon request. Winter Camp, two sessions, December 26-30 and January 2-6. Signup now; weekly and daily drop-ins available! • Vans Skatepark Holiday Skate Clinics 20 City Blvd., West, Orange (714) 769-3800 www.vans.com December 10 and 17: Vans Skatepark in Orlots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com
ange, a 40,000-square-foot facility, offers two different Holiday Clinics on Saturday, December 10 and 17. 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 nonmembers. Space is limited so sign up today. See ad on page 15. • Winter Hockey Camp at The Rinks – Anaheim ICE 300 West Lincoln Ave., Anaheim (714) 535-7465, Ext. “0” www.The-Rinks.com December 19-22: The Rinks - Anaheim ICE proudly hosts the All-World Hockey Institute
Winter Hockey Camp from Monday, December 19 - Thursday, December 22, each day 8 a.m. - 3 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 21. YMCA’s Camp E.L.K. (760) 249-3822 www.campelk.org Winter overnight camp (8-14), December 27 January 1. Enrollment is limited to just 40 campers so early registration is encouraged. Financial assistance is available to those who qualify. The grounds are quite likely to have snow, which will allow for additional activities like sledding.
Participants also get the opportunity to ring in the New Year with an eventful celebration. Camp E.L.K. is located just an hour and a half from both Orange and Los Angeles counties, and bus transportation to and from camp is provided. $510 per camper. Ask about sibling discounts. YMCAs www.ymcaoc.org,www.lbymca.org, www.campoakes.org, www.camp.ymca.org Individual branches offer day camps (5-15) during traditional and year-round school vacations. Financial assistance is available. For contact information, see Youth and Family Groups at www.tinyurl.com/youthfamgroups.
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