We’re here to help you find fun things to do, outdoor events, and more events this weekend and all week long. Check back often as our list will be updated as events are announced.
September is a special time along the coast of Orange County with warm and mild days and huge numbers of blue whales feeding sometimes just several hundred yards from shore. The Blue Whale Migration is in full swing in September with cruises often seeing several blue whales or more during a single whale watching cruise. And if blue whales weren’t enough, finback whales, and minke whales or also viewed regularly. A great opportunity for even the most seasoned whale watcher. Newport Beach is regarded as one of top whale watching destinations worldwide. See why.
International foods, crafts, folk dancing and music. Many different ethnic foods and costume. The Street Fair has become known for the variety of food reflecting cuisine from around the world. They provide food, drink, entertainment and crafts to the visitors.
August . 30 – September 7, 2025 Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays Old World Village, 7561 Center Ave, Huntington Beach 714-696-TAP1 (8271)
Click link above for bands and tickets. Friday & Saturday events are ticket concerts, 21+ only, full bar, food and drinks. Sundays are free shows (No Tickets Needed) with all ages welcome (with Parents), full bar, food and drinks.
September 5-7, 2025 Fri 5-11PM | Sat 12-11PM | Sun 12-8PM Fountain Valley Sports Park 16400 Brookhurst Street Fountain Valley, CA 92708 – FREE PARKING!
Fresh Live Maine Lobsters flown in daily prepared to mouth-watering perfection in the World’s Largest Steamers. You can find all things lobster from lobster rolls to lobster mac and lobster bisque, and even lobster on-a-stick! Incredible live music – Bruno and the Hooligans, REMJ-Michael Jackson Tribute Show, Devotional The Depeche Mode Experience, Rio: A Tribute to Duran Duran, and Jumping Jack Flash THE Tribute to the Rolling Stones, to name a few. Admission $5 Fri., $15 Sat/Sun – Kids 12 and under FREE
September 7 – November 9, 2025 EVERY Wednesday through Sunday Old World Village, 7561 Center Ave, #49 Huntington Beach 714-696-TAP1 (8271)
Eat, Drink, Dance & be Merry at Southern California’s BEST & Most DIVERSE OKTOBERFEST (voted by German World Magazine) with Oom-Pah-Pa Bands directly from Germany. Sample Imported German Beers, Bratwurst, Rotisserie Chicken, Hamburgers, Pork Sandwiches, Strudel, Pretzels & more. Guests can also enter the Beer Drinking & Stein Holding Contests, and of course do the Chicken Dance! Wednesday through Saturday are adult nights & Sunday’s are family day with Dachshund Races.
September 12-14, 2025 Dana Point Harbor / Ocean Institute 949-496-2274
The largest annual gathering of tallships on the West Coast, this festival features a spectacular array of family-fun activities including live music, art shows and a variety of tasty food. Interactive living-history encampments including blacksmiths, scrimshaw artists, and the infamous Port Royal Privateers are sure to entertain and amaze guests of all ages and are not to be missed. Additionally, you can explore the historic tallships and listen to the crew share tails of adventure and life at sea.
This annual tradition celebrates Santa Ana‟s vibrant Mexican culture with a parade, performers each night, delicious food, affor dable shopping, interactive activities, and exciting carnival rides for children of all ages
September 25-28, 2025 Westminster Civic Center, 8200 Westminster Blvd. Westminster, CA
We are pleased to announce that Westminster’s Fall Festival will be returning for its 3rd year in a row! We hope to see you all again for another weekend of family fun, including delicious food, a lively beer garden, exciting live entertainment, and carnival rides!
September 27 & 28, 2025 San Juan Capistrano Community Center 25925 Camino Del Avion, San Juan Capistrano
Be Greek for the day! Enjoy authentic Greek food and pastries, live Greek music and dancing, shopping at the Greek bazaar, kid friendly activities and exhibits featuring Byzantine icons and traditional Greek costumes.
The city of Laguna Beach California has a high concentration of named beaches along it’s nine mile long waterfront. Thirty-six to be exact! While each of these beaches are excellent places to visit some have their limitations or are just not one of “best” that Laguna has to offer.
Unfortunately (for most of us) there are beachfront gated communities such as Irvine Cove, Emerald Bay, and Three Arch Bay that close off access to their beaches from the general public. Others such as Totuava have difficult access and some are simply all wet at higher tides.
On the brighter side, Laguna is known for its stunning cove beaches such as Thousand Steps, Crecent Bay, and Victoria Beach. But the focal point of the beach scene in Laguna is at Main Beach where you’ll find grass lawns, volleyball courts, shops, restaurants, and lots of people. It’s the best people-watching spot in all of Laguna.
One section of the shoreline from Main Beach to the Keyhole Rock at Pearl Street Beach is a continuous sandy beach, but it has stairwells at each street so the city has created 12 separate beach names between these end points. Walking on the sand from Main Beach to Pearl Street is a thrill and you can return on the sidewalks of Coast Highway if you’d like. There are many shops and restaurants along this route. Of course it’s possible to turn around or loop back at any of the stairways you find on the way to the end at the Keyhole. If you do the whole thing you can cross many of the Laguna beaches off your to do list.
There are a few parks in Laguna Beach worth mentioning. The crown jewel by far is Crystal Cove State Park at the north end on the border with Newport Beach. This park has six different beaches with two of them in Laguna. You can hike the trails in the park on the bluff or walk long distances on the brown sand below. Heisler Park is another worthy stop in Laguna. It’s just a few paces north from Main Beach and is home to a large picnic area above Picnic Beach and excellent tide pools at Rockpile Beach. Finally in South Laguna there is a huge park called Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park with loads of hiking and mountain biking trails. At the bottom of this canyon is family-friendly Aliso Creek Beach.
Below is our list of the best beaches in Laguna Beach ordered from north to south. As we said, even the smaller hard-to-find beaches in Laguna are worth a visit. So if you have extra time, then check this complete list of Laguna Beaches and see how many you can find!
Moro Beach is the southern beach in Crystal Cove State Park located between Laguna Beach and the Corona Del Mar area of Newport Beach, CA. For many years this was […]
Crescent Bay Beach is a large popular beach in northern Laguna Beach, CA. The main public access is on Cliff Drive one block from where it begins at North Coast […]
Shaw’s Cove is a small sandy locals beach tucked away below homes in Laguna Beach, CA. There is a public entrance to Shaw’s at the intersection of Fairview Street and […]
Fisherman’s Cove Beach is a small south-facing beach tucked away in Laguna Beach, CA. The signage at the entrance to this beach is clearly signed Fisherman’s Cove, but locals also […]
Picnic Beach is the northern beach of Heisler Park in Laguna Beach, CA. The park above the beach offers grassy areas to spread out on and many picnic tables as […]
Main Beach is the simple name given to the main centrally-located city beach in Laguna Beach, California. Main Beach is a nice sandy beach in a broad cove that faces […]
Pearl Street Beach is located below a stairway that begins at the west end of Pearl Street in Laguna Beach. Pearl Street ends at Ocean Way just one block off […]
Woods Cove Beach is in a sandy cove that has rocky points at both ends and fancy Laguna Beach homes high above the bluff. Bette Davis lived in the English […]
Victoria Beach is a long white sandy beach south of Victoria Drive in Laguna Beach. The majority of this southwest-facing beach lies in front of the private gated Lagunita housing […]
Treasure Island Beach is south of the Montage Resort in Laguna Beach, CA. This sandy beach is the north end of the same large cove that begins at Aliso Beach […]
Aliso Beach County Park is a popular sandy beach in South Laguna Beach, CA. Unlike many of the nearby beaches, Aliso Beach has a large off-street parking area next to […]
Table Rock Beach is a locally-known tucked away beach in south Laguna Beach, CA. This is an excellent sandy beach in a deep cove with homes high above. Rocks of […]
Thousand Steps Beach is one of the largest beaches in south Laguna Beach, CA. It’s a wide sandy beach with volleyball courts, restrooms, and tide pools and even caves to […]
No bored kids will be left behind this summer when you make your way through this big list of fun kids summer activities.
Keeping kids entertained and engaged throughout the summer takes a bit of creativity. Don’t worry though, we have you covered! Check out these 101 fun summer activities for kids that are guaranteed to stave off boredom and keep them excited about what’s going to happen every day. When the first day of school rolls around and their teacher asks, “What did you do this summer?,” they’ll have a lot to say!
Whether you’re entertaining very active toddler or a low-key tween, this mondo list of fun ideas for summer will come in handy for all ages and types of kids. Got a sitter or nanny helping you out this year? Make sure to share these fun summer activities and ideas with them too.
Key takeaways
Having a list of kids summer ideas and activities is key for staving off boredom.
Make sure you have age-appropriate activities for everyone.
Choose from sporty to educational activities with our comprehensive list.
Have a game night with charades, Pictionary and bingo.
Have a water balloon toss — or fight!
Crafty things to do with kids in summer
Fill one of these blank books with stories and illustrations.
Create salad spinner art by placing circles of paper inside a cheap salad spinner, squirt water-based acrylic or tempera paints on top, cover and spin away.
Make a sidewalk chalk mural.
Have an outdoor painting party using huge canvases or cardboard.
Paint with ice by freezing ice cube trays with washable tempera paint.
Mark off all the local parks on a map — then visit them, take pictures and vote for your favorite.
Take in a fireworks exhibit.
Collaborate with other kids in the neighborhood to do a “chalk walk” — have all the neighbors vote on the best sidewalk chalk obstacle courses or other creative chalk masterpieces.
Let kids paint each other with washable tempera paint and then wash it off in a sprinkler run.
Set up a bike wash and raise money for a local charity.
Plan a picnic at the park and invite friends and neighbors.
Decorate bikes and have a neighborhood Fourth of July parade.
Make paper boats and race them in a kiddie pool using straws to propel them.
Lake Mission Viejo now has seating with a view outside the fences (of course, if you live in MV and have access to the lake, then go there!). You’ll find this seating on the side of the lake along Olympiad. You can literally park your car right there at the curb and enjoy the seating and view.
You can picnic near pretty much ANY playground at a picnic table or by setting up a picnic blanket:
Who wants to go strawberry picking? Have you ever wanted to pick your own fruit, fresh from the farm? Is there any other family activity that’s as fun — and delicious? Not to mention educational, since you can help your kids learn about where their food comes from.
These hard-working family farms, near Los Angeles, and all over Southern California, offer the chance to go strawberry picking (or any other fruit in season) and enjoy seeing your food in its natural state. Sometimes called “U-Pick,” the idea is you and your family will do a bit of work and get to eat all the fresh fruit you gather.
In Los Angeles, we are lucky to be able to pick fruit all year long, nearby, within just a couple hours’ drive. The time to pick strawberries is in the spring. You pick cherries in the early summer, and apple picking happens in the fall. But there are also blueberries, apricots, plums, and pumpkins, too — just to name a few others. Plus there are all the vegetables!
Let’s go pick strawberries! Photo credit: California Strawberry Commission
Have you been searching for “Strawberry Picking Near Me in SoCal?” Or wondered about a “Strawberry Farm near me?” We’ve got you covered! You’ll find a U-Pick Farm Near Me on this awesome Google Map.
Pick Your Own Fruit: Locally Grown and Farm Fresh
We’ve got a great big list of farms to take kids where you can all pick your own fruits and vegetables. You can find U-Pick Farms in Orange County, San Bernardino, Ventura, and even San Diego County.
And if you’d rather not pick your own, most of these farms have terrific farm stands, some with drive-through, so you can get fresh fruit and veggies direct from the farm, whether you get your hands dirty or not.
Things to Know Before You Go
Wherever you go to pick, and whatever fruit you choose, we hope you and your family have a great time!
Fruits they grow: Strawberries, as well as other fruits and vegetables.
Farm Market Hours: Wednesday – Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Sunday 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Closed Mondays and Tuesdays)
U-Pick Information: $10 Admission. The picking season generally starts about April 15th each year. Be sure to check their website as well as Instagram and Facebook pages for the most up-to-date information.
Underwood: Moorpark Farm Center 3370 Sunset Valley Road, Moorpark, CA 93021
(805)529-3690
info@underwoodfamilyfarms.com
Fruits they grow: Strawberries, as well as many other fruits and vegetables including tomatoes, cauliflower, carrots, lettuce, and much more. Underwood is well-known for its seasonal festivals (Springtime Festival, Fall Harvest, and Christmas on the Farm).
Moorpark Farm Center Hours: Daily 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Closed on certain holidays, closing early on the days before certain holidays. Check their website for details.
Underwood: Somis Farm Center
5696 E. Los Angeles Ave, Somis, CA 93066
(805) 386-4660 info@underwoodfamilyfarms.com
Fruits they grow: The Somis location has been open since 1980 and offers a variety of fruits, vegetables, and specialty food items (jarred products, pickled vegetables, dried beans, honey, farm fresh eggs, flowers, and more).
Pick-your-own strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, tangerines, and figs are offered by the season. Strawberries are usually available from March through mid-June.
When you go, be sure to visit the animal center where you can see pygmy goats, alpacas, sheep, and chickens.
Somis Farm Market & Animal Center Hours: Daily 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (6:00 p.m. as of 3/9/2025). Closed on certain holidays, closing early on the days before certain holidays. Check their website for details.
This farm has “U Pick Strawberries Near Me” if that’s what you’re looking for! Photo credit: California Strawberry Commission
In the fall, try our list of Farms for Apple Picking, many of which are located in San Bernardino County.
Pick Your Own Fruit — San Bernardino County
Los Rios Rancho 39611 Oak Glen Rd., Oak Glen, CA 92399
(909) 797-1005
info@losriosrancho.com
Fruits they grow: Los Rios Rancho was established in 1906 and is known as the “largest and oldest Apple Farm in Southern California.” While they are known as an Apple Farm, Los Rios Rancho includes more than 150 acres and offers a variety of organically-grown berries, pumpkins, corn, and more. More than three acres are dedicated to strawberries, and picking season usually starts in mid-May. They also host a number of special events and festivals throughout the year.
Current Hours: Thursday – Tuesday 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (They are closed on Wednesday and they are temporarily closed on Thursday and Friday as well)
Family Farms
13406 Cypress Ave., Chino, CA 91710
(909) 717-5871
Fruits they grow: Family Farms in Chino welcomes families to pick their own strawberries seven days a week from 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. No reservation is needed. $10 per person, which includes entry and a basket of strawberries. For the most up-to-date information, be sure to check their Instagram and/or Facebook pages.
Fruits they grow: In late spring and early summer, you can pick Nicolson’s juicy, delicious strawberries from Thursday through Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Check their Facebook or Instagram pages for more information.
Berry Picking Farms — Orange County
Tanaka Farms 5380 3/4 University Dr., Irvine, CA 92612
(949)653-2100
info@tanakafarms.com
Fruits they grow: Tanaka Farms is a thirty-acre, family-owned and operated farm, established in 1940. Families can opt to take a Strawberry Picking Tour, which includes a guided wagon ride with multiple stops, allowing families the opportunity to pick fruit right where they’re growing. Strawberry Picking Tours are offered on Saturday and Sunday, beginning March 1st, 2025. Reservations may be made online. You can also opt to visit and pick strawberries without the tour. Tanaka Farms is also well-known for its seasonal festivals and many family-friendly events offered throughout the year.
Produce Market Stand & Gift Shop Hours: Daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
(Keep in mind — all tours and activities require a reservation.)
South Coast Farms
33201 Ortega Hwy, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
(949)661-9381
southcoastcsa@gmail.com
Fruits they grow: South Coast Farms was established in 1996 and is San Juan Capistrano’s only Family Farm. They grow all of their produce without the use of pesticides or fungicides. South Coast Farms U-pick is currently open on Thursday through Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Be sure to check their Instagram and Facebook pages for the latest updates.
The Ecology Center
32701 Alipaz St., San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
(949) 443-4223
Fruits they grow: The Ecology Center provides an “immersive, interactive farm experience featuring educational programming and a hands-on strawberry U-pick.” Using a field guide, families will first tour the farm and then go into the fields to “experience the bounty of the only Regenerative Organic strawberries available in Southern California.” Many special events are offered throughout the year including seasonal festivals, farm dinners, special children’s offerings, and more.
Hours: Farm Stand is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
U-Pick Strawberries is available on Saturday and Sunday ($15 per person) from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Tickets are required and must be purchased in advance (free for children under 2).
Manassero Farms
33 Irvine Valley, Irvine, CA 92618
(949) 554-5103
Fruits they grow: Strawberry picking season at Manassero Farms has just begun. The Strawberry Picking Experience includes access to the field and a single 1-pound container. For those who do not wish to pick berries and would just like access to the fields, a ticket is required. Children under 2 are free. Reservations are required.
Hours: Open Monday through Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Open on Sundays from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Photo credit: California Strawberry Commission
Strawberry Picking — San Diego County
Carlsbad Strawberry Company
1050 Cannon Rd., Carlsbad, CA 92008
(760)603-9608
info@carlsbadstrawberrycompany.com
Fruits they grow: Carlsbad Strawberry Company has been growing strawberries for generations! U-Pick is predicted to open in late March or early April. Check the website for the latest information. And while you’re there, be sure to visit with the sheep, goats, and rabbits on the farm. Once the season begins, U-Pick is available daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets may only be purchased on-site. (Visit in the fall, and you’ll find an epic Pumpkin Patch and corn maze.) They also have tractor rides and Bounceland, which will reopen soon and includes jump houses and slides for children.
Kenny’s Strawberry Farm
953 Rainbow Valley Blvd., Fallbrook, CA 92028
(888) 236-0101
info@kennysstrawberryfarm.com
Fruits they grow: Kenny’s Strawberry Farm has been growing delicious strawberries for over a decade. U-Pick opportunities usually open sometime in February or March each year. Be sure to check the website for the most up-to-date information and hours. (As of February 27th, 2025 the U-Pick Farm is closed for the season. According to Facebook, they are already sold out!)
The 65th Annual Garden Grove Strawberry Festival is scheduled for Friday, May 23rd (1 p.m. to 10 p.m.), Saturday, May 24th, and Sunday, May 25th (10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on both days), and Monday, May 26th (10 a.m. to 9 p.m.). This popular yearly event features carnival rides, live musical performances, vendor booths, games, and, of course, strawberries (and other non-strawberry food). Details, including parking information, are available online.
The California Strawberry Festival will take place on Saturday, May 17th, and Sunday, May 18th (10:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.). The Festival features over 40 food vendors, live musical performances, arts and crafts booths, and a Strawberryland for Kids (featuring rides, face painting, and more). Ticket information is available online.
Q: Is strawberry picking a good family activity?
A: Yes, you can pick strawberries with your kids, and you’ll all have fun.
Q: When is strawberry picking season?
A: Strawberry picking season varies by location and climate, but generally it occurs in the late spring and early summer months. In North America, strawberry picking season typically runs from late May to early July, although this can vary by region.
Q: What should I wear for strawberry picking?
A: It’s best to wear comfortable clothing that you don’t mind getting dirty, as well as closed-toe shoes. You may also want to wear a hat and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
Q: What should I bring when picking strawberries?
A: You’ll want to bring a container to hold your strawberries, such as a basket or a plastic container with a lid. You may also want to bring water and snacks, as well as cash to pay for the strawberries.
Q: How do I know which strawberries to pick?
A: Look for strawberries that are fully red and plump. Avoid strawberries that are unripe or overripe. You can also gently squeeze the strawberry to see if it’s ripe – it should be slightly soft to the touch.
Q: Can I eat the strawberries while picking?
A: It’s generally okay to eat a few strawberries while picking, but be sure to ask the farmer or staff at the farm if it’s allowed. They may have specific rules about eating while picking.
Q: Can I bring my pet with me to pick strawberries?
A: It’s best to check with the farm beforehand, as some may not allow pets due to health and safety concerns.
Q: Can I bring my own containers to pick strawberries?
A: It’s best to check with the farm beforehand, as some may have specific rules about the types of containers that are allowed. They may also provide containers for you to use.
Q: How much do strawberries cost when picking your own?
A: The cost of strawberries can vary depending on the location and the farm. You can expect to pay by weight or by the container. Prices may also vary depending on the ripeness and quality of the strawberries.
Q: How long do picked strawberries last?
A: Picked strawberries will typically last for a few days in the refrigerator. It’s best to eat them as soon as possible for the freshest flavor. You can also freeze strawberries for longer storage.
Disclaimer: MomsLA has made every effort to confirm the information in this article; however, things can often change. Therefore, MomsLA makes no representations or warranties about the accuracy of the information published here. MomsLA strongly urges you to confirm any event details, like date, time, location, and admission, with the third party hosting the event. You assume the sole risk of relying on any of the information in our list. MomsLA is in no way responsible for any injuries or damages you sustain while attending any third party event posted on our website. Please read our Terms of Use which you have agreed to based on your continued use of this website. Some events have paid to be listed on MomsLA.
Fri, Mar 14, 2025
The Irishman (Huntington Beach): Corned beef! True Irish! Sunday & Monday open at 11AM. 424 Olive Ave, Huntington Beach, CA 92648
Mickey’s Irish Pub (Fullerton): 𝐂𝐀𝐋𝐋𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐀𝐋𝐋 𝐋𝐄𝐏𝐑𝐄𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐔𝐍𝐒! Grab your green gear and head on down to your favorite pub in Fullerton on #StPaddysDay! We’ve got a 𝐋𝐈𝐕𝐄 fiddler, bagpiper, 𝐆𝐑𝐄𝐄𝐍 𝐁𝐄𝐄𝐑, special Irish food menu & 𝐌𝐎𝐑𝐄! 𝐎𝐏𝐄𝐍 𝐀𝐓 9𝐀𝐌! 𝐀𝐑𝐑𝐈𝐕𝐄 𝐄𝐀𝐑𝐋𝐘 𝐓𝐎 𝐀𝐕𝐎𝐈𝐃 𝐋𝐈𝐍𝐄𝐒! 100 N Harbor Blvd, Fullerton, CA 92832
Bangers and Mash with Guinness Gravy and fried cabbage
Braised Lamb “Meat Pies”—-puff pastry with mashed potato base and braised lamb, carrots and celery
Jameson Whiskey Glazed Chicken Wings
Corned Beef Grilled Cheese on Marbled Rye with Irish Cheese
Caramelized Onion and Guinness Dip with Irish Soda Bread Crisps
Irish Popcorn with Jameson Caramel
Guinness Brownie with Nitrogen Ice Cream
122 N. Glassell St., Orange
Durty Nelly’s (Costa Mesa): St. Patrick’s Day menu! Green beer, $7 Jameson shots, Karaoke at 6pm. 2915 Red Hill Ave., Costa Mesa
Malarky’s (Newport Beach): We are kickin’ off St. Paddy’s Day at 6am! Enjoy pints of green beer, brunch, drink specials, shamrock shenanigans & 𝐌𝐎𝐑𝐄! 𝐃𝐎𝐎𝐑𝐒 𝐎𝐏𝐄𝐍 𝐀𝐓 6𝐀𝐌! 𝐀𝐑𝐑𝐈𝐕𝐄 𝐄𝐀𝐑𝐋𝐘 𝐓𝐎 𝐀𝐕𝐎𝐈𝐃 𝐋𝐈𝐍𝐄𝐒! 3011 Newport Blvd, Newport Beach, CA 92663
Muldoon’s Pub (Newport Beach): Get ready for the ultimate St. Paddy’s Day celebration at Newport Beach’s favorite Irish Pub! Join us starting at 9am on March 17 for shamrocks, shenanigans, and nonstop craic as we raise a pint to Ireland’s biggest day! We’ve got a special breakfast & lunch menu, a live bagpiper & fiddler, swag & more! Arrive early to the party to avoid lines, Sláinte! 202 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach
Sidedoor (Corona del Mar): St. Pat’s Specials and Leprechaun Seamus O’Malley! Celebrate St. Paddy’s Day at SideDoor! Get ready for a night of Irish cheer! Join us on March 16th from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM for an unforgettable St. Patrick’s Day celebration! Sing along to lively Irish tunes, feast on Corned Beef & Cabbage ($31) and SideDoor favorites, and hear whimsical folk tales from Seamus the Leprechaun!
$24 ticketed event | Family-style seating
Tullamore D.E.W. flights, Guinness on draft, and more!
Don’t miss this magical evening of music, stories, and Irish spirit!
3801 East Coast Highway, Corona Del Mar
The Original Patsy’s Irish Pub (Laguna Niguel): St. Patrick’s Day is quickly approaching! Here’s a fun lineup for March 15-17!
– March 15: live band, “No. 12 Saloon” – 8:00pm to 12:00am
– March 16: live band, “The Universals” – 4:00pm to 8:00pm
– March 17: Patsy’s opens at 11:00am, $10 All day access ticket to entertainment and festivities:
Face painting
Photo ops
12:00pm to 9:00pm, Kitchen serving special event day menu
1:00pm to 3:00pm, “Plucky Charms” band performs
4:00pm to 8:30pm, “Selly & the Strays,” band performs
9:00pm to 1:00am, DJ and Dancing
28971 Golden Lantern #108, Laguna Niguel
Heritage Barbecue (San Juan Capistrano): Make your own luck this 𝗦𝘁. 𝗣𝗮𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗸’𝘀 𝗗𝗮𝘆 weekend with these chef-curated specials. Available until sell-out Saturday, March 16th and Sunday, March 17th! 31721 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano
Hennessey’s (several locations): Get ready for St. Patrick’s Day Weekend at Hennessey’s Tavern! March 14-17: Hennessey’s Tavern’s Famous CORNED BEEF & CABBAGE Plate is back for just $25! Served all day & night from March 9–17. Don’t miss out—grab yours before it’s gone for another year! Join us as we kick off the celebrations early because when St. Paddy’s falls on a Monday, the whole weekend turns green. Make Hennessey’s your St. Patrick’s Day headquarters, and let’s paint the town green together! 34111 La Plaza, Dana Point; 31761 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano; 213 Ocean Ave., Laguna Beach; 1773 Newport Blvd., Costa Mesa; 143 Main St., Seal Beach
Hiking in Orange County is popular among locals and visitors. Orange County trails range from easy to difficult and trying to figure out the best one fit for you and your dog can be a challenge. Here are some dog friendly hikes in Orange County to help you decide which is best for your next adventure. As in all hikes watch out for local animals, snakes, coyotes, and the occasional mountain lion. Take a look at these hikes to get you started. Don’t forget to pack some water for your and your fur friend and take care to preserve the OC trails on your hike. Enjoy!
Aliso Summit Trail
Length: 4 Miles Roundtrip
Location: Laguna Niguel. Hiking Trails that run along the Southern ridge of Wood Canyon and Aliso regional parks.
Condition: Unpaved
Highlights Ocean View in the middle of the trail
Dogs must be leashed
Parking: Free on Residential Streets
Level: Moderate
Las Ramblas Trail
Length: 6.3 Mile Loop
Location: San Juan Capistrano
Condition: Unpaved
Highlights: Mountain and costal views. Multiple trails. This trail is one of the most popular hiking trails during the Spring Super Bloom.
Dogs must be leashed
Parking: Free Parking in surrounding areas. Depending on if its open it has a parking lot close by.
Level: Moderate/Difficult
Notes: Look out for Mountain Bikers and Steep hills. The trail can get really muddy.
Ridgeline Trail
Length: 5.7 Miles Out and Back
Location: San Clemente
Condition: Partially Paved
Highlights: Beautiful views
Dogs must be leashed
Parking: Free on Residential Streets
Level: Moderate/Difficult hike
Black Star Canyon
Length: 6.7 Miles Out and Back
Location: Silverado Canyon
Condition: Partially Paved
Highlights: Great views, waterfall
Dogs must be leashed and are allowed off leash in some areas
Parking: Adventure Pass required, gets packed. Go early.
Welcome to the local’s favorite Orange County events site for Families! Here is a huge list of Orange CountyEvents happening THIS WEEKEND for January 31 – February 2, 2025. Fun things to do in OC this Friday, Saturday and Sunday, and many are FREE!
Looking for FREE family activities, children’s activities, community events, great food trucks, OC entertainment, live music performances or craft fairs? We’ve got the scoop! This list is organized by date.Double check event’s website to confirm details before going. To submit your event, email jill@sandytoesandpopsicles.com.
Things to Do in Orange County ALL Weekend
Here are some fun things happening multiple days during this weekend in Orange County.
Orange County Storytimes
Huge list of every story time in Orange County listed by city. Includes storytimes for public libraries, local business, and community centers.
Monster Jam Angel Stadium 2000 E. Gene Autry Way, Anaheim, CA 92806 Coming February 15 & 16, 2025
Experience adrenaline-charged fun for everyone. You’ll be on the edge of your seat watching the legendary Grave Digger®, snarling El Toro Loco, mighty Megalodon® and more push the limits in Freestyle, Skills and Racing competitions. Monster Jam. As Big As It Gets!™
OC Tet Festival Friday, January 31st – February, 2, 2025 All Day Mile Square Park Freedom Hall 16801 Euclid St, Fountain Valley, CA 92708 FREE ADMISSION
The 3-day festival will feature a variety of Vietnamese food, live entertainment, and carnival rides. Families will also have an opportunity to experience the Vietnamese Cultural Center, where they will be transported to some of the most iconic landscapes from different regions of Vietnam. The OC Tet Festival is a wonderful event for the entire family.
UVSA Tết Festival 2025 Saturday, January 31 – February 2, 2025 All Day Garden Grove Park 9301 Westminster Blvd., Garden Grove, CA 92844 FREE EVENT
Join over 50,000 guests as UVSA celebrates the Year of the Snake and the 50th anniversary of Black April (Fall of Saigon). Enjoy vibrant activities that honor Vietnamese heritage, including a cultural village, live entertainment, the Miss Vietnam of Southern California pageant, games, rides, local food vendors, and a spectacular firecracker show!
43rd Annual UVSA Tết Festival Friday, January 31st – February, 2, 2025 Times Vary OC Fair & Event Center 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, CA
This year, the UVSA Tết Festival theme, “A Spring of Remembrance” or “Xuân Hoài Niệm,” honors the Vietnamese community’s efforts in building a home abroad. Join over 50,000 guests to celebrate the Year of the Snake and commemorate the 50th anniversary of Black April. Highlights include a cultural village, live entertainment, the Miss Vietnam of Southern California pageant, games, rides, local food vendors, and a dazzling firecracker show.
Weekend Walks at Oak Canyon Nature Center
Oak Canyon Nature Center
Anaheim Hills, CA 92807 January 25 & 26, 2025
10:30am FREE EVENT
Come join us on Saturday or Sunday mornings for an hour-long, naturalist-led hike through Oak Canyon to learn about the Canyon’s plants, animals, history, ecology, and more! Each week’s hike is themed and ends at the Interpretive Center for a live animal demonstration.
Kids Play & Walk with Goats Goods and Goat Market
29458 Trabuco Creek Rd, San Juan Capistrano, CA
Friday – Sunday | Times Vary
There are sessions for Playtime & Goat Walking! Cuddle, Brush, and Play with our special Yoga Goats. Look for chicken eggs and feed worms to the hens! We have new furry friends – Bunnies and Guinea Pigs. The zipline is a big hit! Play in the rocks with our antique Tonka Trucks. We have a Shooting Gallery with Nerf guns for kids to play with.
Things to Do in Orange County – Friday, January 31, 2025
Morning Playdate with Miss Rachel Play & Parties
1901 N Tustin Street, Orange, CA January 24, 2025
10:30pm Play & Parties Playdates include Live Storytimes, Singalongs, and a special guest! Have fun with other children while paying games, singing songs, and playing with our special guest.
Lunar New Year Fun Celebration Brea Library 1 Civic Center Circle, Brea, CA, CA Friday, January 31, 2025 3:30 – 4:30pm FREE EVENT
Hisss! It’s the year of the snake. Come join us at the Brea Library and make some fun sssnake crafts to celebrate Lunar New Year.
Lunar New Year Special Celebration at Euclid Branch Library Anaheim Euclid Branch Public Library 1340 S Euclid Street, Anaheim, CA 92802 Friday, January 31, 2025 11 – 11:30am FREE EVENT
Join us for this family program and learn about the festival that celebrates the start of Spring and the New Year on the lunisolar calendar.
Wild Tales Upper Newport Bay 2301 University Drive, Newport January 31, 2025 10:00 – 10:45am FREE
Upper Newport Bay’s popular storytime is back! Wild tales will be offered every Friday and include an outdoor storytime in their amphitheater, an age-appropriate hike, and a craft project in our classroom. Each session has a new story, hike theme, and craft project.
Scales, Feathers & Fur Preschool Program at Irvine Park Irvine Park 1 Irvine Park Road, Orange, CA January 31, 2025 10:15am
Class includes hands-on learning, fun crafts, and meeting zoo creatures up close! Program is for ages 3-4 years old ONLY. Cost is $5 per child (one parent included). Parent must accompany child for entire program. Phone registration is required.
Become an OC Parks Junior Ranger! Irvine Park 1 Irvine Park Road, Orange, CA January 31, 2025 3 – 4:30pm FREE
Explore the natural wonders and history of Irvine Regional Park with OC Parks’ new Jr. Ranger program! Participants will have the opportunity to earn a Jr. Ranger badge as we explore Irvine Regional Park together. The program content is geared toward ages 7-12, but all are welcome.
Starry, Starry Night Irvine Ranch Open Space 13333 Black Star Canyon Rd, Silverado, CA January 31, 2025 4 – 6pm FREE
Come join us for an interactive evening under the stars. Immerse yourself in a scaled-down version of our solar system. Test your imagination in naming the constellations. Reenact the struggle between Orion and the Scorpion. The hike will average 2-3 miles round trip at an easy pace with a high level of interpretation. This program is for participants who would like a slower-paced hike. Wear comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes and bring water for the hike. This activity is designed with kids ages 5 – 12 in mind but, everyone is welcome.
Main Street Classic Car Show Historic Main Street, Garden Grove January 24, 2025
4-8pm FREE
The Main Street Classic Car Show is the longest-running car show in Orange County. With roughly 50 parking spaces, and the show running every Friday, you’re bound to catch a wide variety of rides on display.
Things to Do in Orange County – Saturday, February 1, 2025
OC Public Library FREE Events
Here you will find all the family-friendly library events in your Orange County library.
Home Depot Free Kids Workshop Home Depot Stores 9am – Noon FREE EVENT
Pick up your free Kids Workshops Kit on the first Saturday of each month from your local store. Build it in store. Supplies are provided. (While supplies last)
Black History Parade & Unity Festival 200 W Center Street Promenade, Anaheim
Parking is available at structures around Anaheim City Hall
February 1, 2025
9am – 4pm
Join us for a parade and street fair featuring community marching bands, dancers and parade vehicles, music and more! The event, put on by the Orange County Heritage Council, celebrates Black History Month and the contributions of African Americans to our city, region and nation. There is fun for everyone!
Free Family Concert: Once Upon a Symphony Soka Performing Arts Center 1 University Drive, Aliso Viejo, CA February 1, 2025 11am FREE EVENT
Bring your family to experience the joy of live orchestral music! The talented musicians of the Orange County Youth Symphony will perform a lively, narrated concert designed to introduce children to the beauty of classical music in a fun and welcoming environment.
Arts at the Oaks: Block Print Valentine’s Cards Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve 2145 N. Windes Drive, Orange, CA 92869 February 1, 2025 9 – 11am FREE EVENT
Join OC Parks for an introduction to block printing! Learn the basics of block printing by carving your own nature-inspired Valentine’s Day card. Block printing results in bold, graphic designs that are as simple or complicated as you want. This is a great activity for beginners and experienced artists alike who want to try something new!
Lunar New Year Celebration: The Wood Snake Festival Saturday, February 1, 2025 12 – 3pm The Market Place – Courtyard near Mathis Home I-5 at Jamboree Road, Tustin, CA 92782 FREE EVENT
It’s the Year of the Wood Snake, and that means it’s time to shed 2024 and welcome 2025 with fun and festivities for the whole family. Come enjoy martial arts, choir, and drummers performances, lion and dragon dances, and more!
Westminster Tet Parade Saturday, February 1, 2025 8:30am The City of Westminster Bolsa Avenue and Magnolia Street, Westminster, CA FREE EVENT
The Tet Parade is a grandiose event that has celebrated the Lunar New Year in Little Saigon for over two decades. Every year Vietnamese communities across the globe tune in to watch the event broadcasted by local TV stations and social media platforms. The Tet Parade features floats, marching bands, lion dances, color guards, veterans and youth organizations, martial arts, multi-cultural attires, elected officials, scout organizations, community organizations, and an array of local and international businesses.
Lunar New Year with Pacific Symphony Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall Samueli Theater 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, CA Saturday, February 1, 2025 8pm
Join Pacific Symphony’s annual festivities honoring the Lunar New Year! Celebrating the Year of the Dragon, this performance is sure to sell out once again as audiences from across our communities come together to feast on a colorful presentation of Eastern and Western music and dance.
First Saturday Tour at Bolsa Chica Wetlands Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve 18000 Pacific Coast Highway, Huntington Beach, CA Saturday, February 1, 2025 9am FREE
Enjoy a FREE monthly First Saturday tour of the wetlands! Meet at 9 a.m. in the south parking lot at the Reserve (on Pacific Coast Hwy. halfway between Warner and Seapoint, directly across the Hwy from the entrance to Bolsa Chica State Beach). Volunteer Naturalists offer presentations on the history, birds, endangered species, ecology and restoration of the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve. This is a wonderful opportunity for first-time visitors, students, small groups and local citizens to learn about this valuable coastal resource!
Black History Month at Pretend City Pretend City 29 Hubble, Irvine, CA Saturday, February 1, 2025 11am – 2:30pm
Join us as we honor and celebrate black leaders, artists, and innovators throughout the day in honor of Black History Month with engaging story time and activities.
Strawberry Shortcake Appearance at Irvine Spectrum Irvine Spectrum Center – Box Lunch
670 Spectrum Center Dr. Irvine, CA 92618 Saturday, February 1, 2025 1 – 4pm FREE EVENT
Strawberry Shortcake is making a special appearance at BoxLunch. Don’t miss out on special giveaways, photo-ops with Strawberry Shortcake, and a berry great time!
Lunar New Year Event at The Shops At Mission Viejo Saturday, February 1, 2025 10am – 3pm The Shops At Mission Viejo
555 The Shops at Mission Viejo, Mission Viejo, CA 92692 FREE EVENT
Join us for artwork exhibits & special performances by students from the Mandarin Immersion Program at Marian Bergeson Elementary School and Fred Newhart Middle School!
Kid Builders in Costa Mesa Costa Mesa Donald Dungan Library
1855 Park Ave, Costa Mesa, CA Saturday, February 1, 2025 10am – 12pm FREE EVENT
Kid Builders is coming to Costa Mesa! Don’t miss a morning of fun, learning, and community with First 5 OC, Vice Chair Katrina Foley, the Costa Mesa Donald Dungan Library, and PNC. We are excited to offer free activities and resources for families with children ages 0-5.
Laser Shows the OCC Planetarium
OCC Planetarium
2701 Fairview Road, Costa Mesa, CA Saturday, February 1, 2025 Times Vary
Regular showings are offered on weekends so everyone can come enjoy a rotating schedule of breathtaking full-dome experiences that transport you to faraway worlds.
Archery for 10 and up
Oak Canyon Nature Center
Anaheim Hills, CA 92807 Saturday, February 1, 2025
10 & 11:30am
Do you know how to shoot a bullseye? Join us for open range archery and we will teach you the basic skills needed to point, aim, and shoot an arrow. We will cover the correct way to draw a bow and talk about range safety. Ages 10 and up.
All Ages Wood Workshops
AR Workshop
31107 Rancho Viejo Road, Suite B2, San Juan Capistrano, CA Saturday, February 1, 2025 10am – 1pm
Join AR Workshop for a family DIY class to make one of their many wood projects! In the workshop, you will have the opportunity to customize your project with your choice of designer paints and (non-toxic!) stain colors.
Anaheim GardenWalk Cars & Coffee Anaheim GardenWalk 400 Disney Way Anaheim, CA
Saturday, February 1, 2025 8 – 11am FREE EVENT
California’s only indoor covered Cars & Coffee event! Every Saturday morning, call GardenWalk your home cars & coffee or simply stop by and bring your crowd for a covered C&C late morning gathering. All makes, models, projects, and finished builds are welcome. Enter at Clementine Street north (Clementine & Disney Way).
South OC Cars and Coffee Outlets At San Clemente, San Clemente
January 18, 2025Saturday, February 1, 2025
9 – 11am
FREE EVENT The name says you’ll find cars and coffee there. But you’ll also find people and conversations. And those conversations will cover anything from powertrains to politics.
Coffee and Donuts at Ted’s
Ted’s Diner
23990 Aliso Creek Rd, Laguna Niguel, CA
Saturday, February 1, 2025 7:30 – 8am
FREE EVENT
Hot Rod Car meet-up every Saturday
Classic Cars at Donut Derelicts Donut Derelicts, Huntington Beach
Every Saturday Morning FREE EVENT
Each Saturday morning, car enthusiasts from all over gather in the parking lot of Adams Ave Donuts to enjoy a donut, a cup of coffee and a spectacle of hot rods and classic cars.
Things to Do in Orange County – Sunday, February 2, 2025
OC Public Library FREE Events
Here you will find all the family-friendly library events in your Orange County library.
Renaissance Chocolate Faire Bowers Museum 1802 N. Main Street, Santa Ana, CA February 2, 2024 11am – 3pm
Enjoy chocolate tastings by local chocolatiers and delight in unique performances celebrating the Renaissance era. Special prizes will be given to the top 3 cosplays inspired by the theme of fantasy!
Aloha Fair Same complex as BJ’s & Party City 16160 Beach Blvd, Huntington Beach, CA 92647 February 2, 2024 10am – 4pm FREE Entrance
Experience the Magic of Polynesia. Live Hawaiian Polynesian dance and music performances that transport you to the islands. Explore arts and crafts vendors with unique items. Indulge in delicious Hawaiian shave ice and more from amazing food trucks. Family-Friendly event for all ages!
D. Yoder Family Sundays: Lunar New Year Sunday, February 2, 2025 10am – 2pm Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, CA FREE EVENT
Enjoy FREE admission to Casa Romantica with our annual Lunar New Year Celebration. Featuring a lion dance performance at 11 AM and arts and crafts for kids.
Woodbury Night Market: Lunar New Year Edition Woodbury™ Town Center 6460 Irvine Blvd, Irvine, CA 92620 Sunday, February 2, 2025 2 – 7pm FREE EVENT
Join us at Woodbury Town Center for the Woodbury Night Market: Lunar New Year Celebration! Enjoy delicious food, live DJ music, lion dances, acrobatics, and a snake handler presentation. Savor bites from local favorites like CHA for Tea, Handel’s, Paris Baguette, and more.
Sunday Funday Central Park Central Park Huntington Beach 6700 Central Park Drive, Huntington Beach, CA Sunday, February 2, 2025 11am – 1pm FREE EVENT
Invite your friends and family members to our next Sunday Funday at Central Park West in Huntington Beach! We are located right next to Kathy May’s Lakeview Cafe. As always, we will have plenty of free food, fun, and games! See you there!
Free Things to Do This Weekend in OC
These Orange County places are FREE to visit, and open year round to the public. They make great places to visit on the weekends with family:
Centennial Farm – OC Fair & Event Center | Times Vary
Centennial Farm is now to the public. Visit the animals and the farming gardens. Admission and parking are free
Niguel Botanical Preserve – Crown Valley Community Park | All Day
If you are looking for a scenic, family friendly nature experience, then the Niguel Botanical Preserve in Laguna Niguel is a great place to check out.
The Ecology Center – The Ecology Center, San Juan Capstrano
Every Saturday and Sunday – Open for self-guided exploration. Be sure to check their calendar for workshops and events happening every weekend! FREE
Pier Plaza Art Afair – Pacific Coast Highway & Main, adjacent to the Huntington Beach Pier
An arts and crafts fair overlooking the pacific Ocean.
Fun Things to Do this Weekend in OC
These OC places are open year round, and make great places to visit on the weekends with family:
Orange County Farmers Markets – All Over OC | Times Vary
Check out this list of all the farmers markets happening on Orange County.
Balboa Fun Zone– 600 E. Bay Avenue, Newport Beach
The Fun Zone has over 8,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor restaurants, carnival games, vendors, food and fun overlooking the Newport Harbor & Balboa Island.
Anaheim Packing District – 440 S. Anaheim Boulevard, Anaheim
One of the last remaining citrus packing warehouses in OC, that has been historically preserved and retrofitted into a market hall with restaurants, food and vendors.
Irvine Park Railroad – Irvine Regional Park, Orange | All day
Ride the train, concessions, Wheel Fun Rentals – paddleboat and bike rentals, pan for gold, OC zoo, and enjoy the park.
OCC Planetarium – Orange Coast College | Times Vary
The OCC Planetarium is an innovative and immersive experience. Regular showings are offered on weekends so everyone can come enjoy a rotating schedule of breathtaking full-dome experiences that transport you to faraway worlds.
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