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Keeping Current Matters | Feb 17, 2025

Some homeowners hesitate to sell because they’ve got unanswered questions that hold them back. But a lot of times their concerns are based on misconceptions, not facts. And if they’d just talk to an agent about it, they’d see these doubts aren’t necessarily a hurdle at all.

If uncertainty is keeping you from making a move, it’s time to get the real answers. The ones you deserve. And to take the pressure off, you don’t have to ask the questions, because here’s the data that answers them.

1. Is It Even a Good Idea To Move Right Now?

If you own a home already, you may be tempted to wait because you don’t want to sell and take on a higher mortgage rate on your next house. But your move may be a lot more feasible than you think, and that’s because of how much your house has likely grown in value.

Think about it. Do you know anyone in your neighborhood who’s sold their house recently? If so, did you hear what it sold for? With how much home values have gone up in recent years, the number may surprise you. According to Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the typical homeowner has gained $147,000 in housing wealth in the last five years alone.

That’s significant – and when you sell, that can give you what you need to fund your next move.

2. Will I Be Able To Find a Home I Like?

If this is on your mind, it’s probably because you remember just how hard it was to find a home over the past few years. But in today’s market, it isn’t as challenging.

Data from Realtor.com shows how much inventory has increased – it’s up nearly 25% compared to this time last year (see graph below):

Even though inventory is still below more normal pre-pandemic levels, it’s improved a lot in the past year. And the best part is, experts say it’ll grow another 10 to 15% this year. That means you have more options for your move – and the best chance in years to find a home you love.

3. Are Buyers Still Buying?

And last, if you’re worried no one’s buying with rates and prices where they are right now, here’s some perspective that can help. While there weren’t as many home sales last year as there’d be in a normal market, roughly 4.24 million homes still sold (not including new construction), according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR). And the expectation is that number will rise in 2025. But even if we only match how many homes sold last year, here’s what that looks like.

4.24 million homes ÷ 365 days in a year = 11,616 homes sell each day
11,616 homes ÷ 24 hours in a day = 484 homes sell per hour
484 homes ÷ 60 minutes = 8 homes sell every minute

Think about that. Just in the time it took you to read this, 8 homes sold. Let this reassure you – the market isn’t at a standstill. Every day, thousands of people buy, and they’re looking for homes like yours.

Bottom Line

When you’re ready to walk through what’s on your mind, connect with CA Real Estate Group to get the answers you need.

CA Real Estate Group | Caliber RE Group

Christine Almarines @christine_almarines
Realtor DRE# 01412944 | (714) 476-4637

Anaid Bautista @wealthwithanaid
Realtor DRE# 02179675 | (949) 391-8266

Letty Luna @lettylunarealestate
Realtor DRE# 02174000 | (562) 879-4181

PT Nguyen @sellsocalbuypt
Realtor DRE# 02223919 | (714) 756-0240

Heavy rainfall is more than just a temporary inconvenience; it can lead to a range of issues for homeowners. Whether you live in a region with unpredictable weather patterns, experience frequent storms, or only have the occasional downpour, it’s essential for homeowners to stay vigilant. After any major downpour, checking for damage around your property is crucial. Ignoring small issues now could result in bigger, more expensive problems down the road.

From the roof to the foundation, several key areas of your home may be affected by heavy rain, and knowing what to look for can save you a lot of trouble later.

1. Soil Erosion

When heavy rain hits, the water can wash away the top layer of soil, particularly in areas around your yard with poor drainage. Soil erosion can weaken the foundation of your home by destabilizing the ground around it. Over time, this can lead to shifting or settling, which may cause cracks in your foundation or driveways.

To combat soil erosion, it’s important to direct water away from your home’s foundation. Landscaping with plants that have deep roots can help hold soil in place. Adding mulch or gravel in areas where water tends to flow can also reduce erosion by slowing the water’s movement.

2. Roof Damage

Beyond simple leaks, heavy rainfall can cause more structural damage to your roof. Prolonged exposure to rain can weaken your roof’s materials, making it less effective at protecting your home. Where weather conditions can be harsh, it’s not uncommon for homeowners to face roof damage after storms. Wind and rain can tear off shingles, expose the underlayment, or cause cracks and dents in the roofing materials.

After a storm, it’s a good idea to have a professional inspect your roof for signs of damage. Contacting an experienced roofing company can ensure you catch any problems early on. Even if your roof looks intact, there could be underlying issues that require expert attention. A proper inspection helps to extend the life of your roof and protect your home from further damage.

3. Foundation Cracks

Your home’s foundation plays a crucial role in maintaining its structural integrity. Unfortunately, heavy rainfall can put significant pressure on the foundation, especially if water is allowed to pool around the base of your home. Over time, this can lead to cracks, which create entry points for water. If moisture seeps into your basement or crawl space, it can cause mold growth, wood rot, and even structural damage.

Preventing foundation issues involves ensuring proper drainage around your home. After a storm, walk around the perimeter of your house and check for any signs of water pooling near the foundation. If you notice any small cracks, it’s important to seal them immediately to prevent further water damage. Larger cracks may require professional attention to ensure the safety and stability of your home.

4. Drainage Problems

Heavy rain can also expose issues with your home’s drainage system. Proper drainage is essential for directing water away from your home and preventing it from pooling in areas where it can cause damage. However, during a storm, drainage systems can become overwhelmed, leading to standing water around your property.

Standing water can be problematic for a number of reasons. It can erode the soil, weaken your foundation, and even flood your basement. It’s important to inspect your drainage system regularly to ensure it’s functioning properly. If you notice that water is not draining as it should, consider having a professional evaluate your gutters, downspouts, and landscaping to improve water flow.

5. Basement Flooding

Basements are particularly vulnerable to flooding during heavy rainstorms. If your basement isn’t properly waterproofed, water can easily find its way through cracks in the walls or floors. Even a small amount of water can cause significant damage to your basement, including mold growth, ruined belongings, and structural issues. This can be especially problematic if your basement is finished or used as a living space.

To prevent basement flooding, check for any cracks or weak points in the foundation and ensure your sump pump is in good working order. Installing a waterproof membrane on your basement walls can also help keep water out. Regular maintenance of your drainage system and gutters will further reduce the risk of basement flooding after heavy rain.

6. Gutter Overflow

Gutters play a critical role in channeling rainwater away from your home. However, during heavy rainfall, gutters can become overwhelmed, especially if they’re clogged with leaves, twigs, or other debris. When gutters overflow, water cascades down the sides of your home, potentially damaging your siding, windows, and even your foundation. The excess water can pool around your home, increasing the risk of foundation cracks or basement flooding.

To prevent gutter overflow, it’s essential to clean your gutters regularly. Removing any debris allows water to flow freely through the system. Installing gutter guards can also help by blocking large debris from entering the gutters in the first place. After heavy rain, check for any areas where the gutters may have overflowed or detached from the house. Making these checks part of your routine maintenance will ensure your gutters continue to function properly and protect your home from water damage.

7. Mold Growth

Excess moisture is a breeding ground for mold, and after heavy rain, your home is at risk of developing this unwanted guest. Mold can grow in areas that remain damp for extended periods, such as basements, attics, and inside walls. While mold may start off as a small, unnoticeable patch, it can quickly spread and cause significant health problems, especially for those with respiratory issues.

Preventing mold growth involves ensuring your home is properly ventilated and free from excess moisture. Dehumidifiers can be used in damp areas, while ensuring windows and doors are properly sealed will prevent water from getting in. After heavy rainfall, it’s crucial to inspect areas where water may have pooled or seeped in. Any damp areas should be dried immediately, and if mold is already present, it’s best to consult a professional to safely remove it. Mold can be stubborn and difficult to eliminate, so acting quickly is key to keeping your home safe and healthy.

In conclusion, heavy rain can cause a variety of problems for homeowners, affecting everything from the roof to outdoor structures. Identifying potential issues early on and taking preventative steps can save you from costly repairs and ensure your home stays safe and secure. Regular inspections and maintenance, particularly after significant storms, are crucial to protecting your investment.

h2oc.org | Oct 29, 2020

OC Rainy Season Checklist

There’s rain in the forecast for later this week! Now is a great time to take a few simple steps to prepare your home and yard for rainy weather.

Here are a few simple steps you can take to get ready for the rainy season:

Pick up around your yard. Rain can carry trash, pet waste, yard debris or exposed household hazardous waste from your yard and other storage areas, such as the side of the house, into our storm drain system. To keep pollutants from entering our waterways, sweep up any trash or debris on hard surfaces like patios or driveways and place it in a covered trash bin. Rake up yard debris and place it in a covered trash or green waste bin. Store Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) indoors or under cover, in closed and labeled containers. You can dispose of HHW for free at any of Orange County’s four recycling centers.
Repair leaking vehicles. Rain can wash oil and other fluids from leaky vehicles into our storm drains. Now is a great time to get your vehicle serviced to prevent leaking fluids from polluting our waterways. If vehicle maintenance isn’t an option at the moment, place drip pans under leaking vehicles to help protect our beaches and waterways. Recycle used oil by taking it to service stations and other recycling centers.
Run your irrigation system and check for runoff. The start of the rainy season is a great time to make sure your irrigation system is doing its job by only giving your yard the water it needs to stay healthy. If you have a zone-based automated or manual irrigation system, try running each zone. Using a stopwatch or timer, monitor each zone for signs of runoff and note the time when runoff occurs. If you see runoff, try the following actions:
- - For runoff caused by sprinklers…
    - Align your sprinklers to only water vegetated areas. Your yard doesn’t benefit when sprinklers spray onto sidewalks or other areas that don’t need water. In addition to creating runoff, poorly aligned sprinklers can damage outdoor structures like fences. Adjusting any misaligned sprinklers and properly aiming sprinkler heads to water only vegetated areas can prevent runoff, reduce repairs, and keep your yard healthy.
    - Repair sprinkler heads and leaks. Broken or leaky sprinklers can waste thousands of gallons of water per month and cause runoff. Immediately repairing sprinklers and fixing leaks prevents runoff from entering our waterways, reduce water bills, and helps keep our ocean clean.
- - Reduce runoff by adjusting your watering schedule…
    - Cycle and soak – Shorter water cycles are good for your yard. Running multiple, shorter cycles with an hour or more break in between allows water to soak into soil and nourish your plants instead of running off as waste.
    - Change the days – Watering too many days in a row may prevent your yard from absorbing water. Adding more time between your watering days can enable your yard to absorb the water it needs while preventing runoff. Be sure to check with your local water district, HOA, or city for guidance regarding watering days in your area.
    - Water at sunrise – Watering early in the morning prevents water from being lost to wind or evaporation.
Helpful tips: For more accurate results, run your system on a day not too soon after a recent watering. Since watering needs change throughout the year, check your system for runoff every three months to ensure your yard is getting the water it needs to stay healthy year-round.
Consider hand watering outdoor plants. During the rainy season, when your yard needs less water, hand watering plants may be a good alternative to other watering systems. Garden hoses with automatic shutoff nozzles can use less water than sprinkler irrigation systems. An easy alternative to sprinklers, hand watering ensures only those areas that need water get it. Be sure to replace any leaking garden hoses and repair any leaky connections to help prevent runoff and keep our waterways clean.
When hand watering or using a non-automated system, set a timer. Lawns quickly absorb the water they need to stay healthy. Setting a timer can help you remember to move or turn off your manual watering, to prevent overwatering and ensure your yard gets the amount of water it needs. Your local water district or city may have irrigation schedules to help determine the best water scheme for your yard.
Skip watering before, during, and after rain. Watering too soon before or after a forecasted rain event (48 hours is a good benchmark) may affect your yard’s ability to absorb water and cause runoff. To prevent your yard from receiving too much water, monitor the weather forecast during the rainy season and adjust your watering accordingly.
In addition, fertilizers and pesticides can be washed off your yard and into our storm drains during rain events. Apply fertilizers and pesticides only when it is not windy and never when rain is in the 48-hour forecast. Limit pesticide use by using nonchemical methods, integrated pest management, or least-toxic pesticides whenever possible.

Here are additional resources to help you prepare for the rainy season in OC:

- Looking for guidance on how much water your yard needs? In addition to running your system to check for runoff, you can find watering guidelines and customizable calculators from bewaterwise.com and the Municipal Water District of Orange County.
- Interested in updating your irrigation system? Rebates may be available for weather-based irrigation controllers, upgraded sprinkler nozzles, drip irrigation, and rain barrels to capture water and prevent runoff. Check your local water district for current rebate programs.
- Wondering how to monitor your yard’s watering needs? Moisture meters feature easy-to-read dials to indicate if soil is dry, moist, or wet. You can find moisture meters and soil moisture sensors at home improvement stores and irrigation supply stores. Rebates may also be available.

For more ways to prevent overwatering and runoff, check out our Landscape Improvement and Capture Water pages for additional modifications you can make to your landscape to protect our local waterways and ocean.

Welcome to the local’s favorite Orange County events site for Families! Here is a huge list of Orange County Events 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.

Lunar New Year Events in Orange County
Huge list of every Lunar New Year Events in Orange County listed by city.
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 W etlands
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
Family-Friendly Tide Pools in the OC Beaches in Orange County
Check out this list of the best family-friendly tide pools in Orange County.
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.

The simple answer is: yes, a porch can increase your home value. But not just any porch — the space must be well-designed, functional, and attractive.

Here are two great resources to consult on how to transform your porch into a warm and inviting entry way to your home sweet home!

30 Cozy And Beautiful Small Front Porch Ideas You Will Love
The Creatives Hour | Sep 3, 2024

A small front porch, despite its limited space, can significantly enhance the curb appeal and functionality of a home. These porches are typically compact entry areas or seating spots, making creative use of the available square footage. Design strategies for these spaces often focus on optimizing usability while maintaining aesthetic charm, from selecting appropriate furnishings to choosing the right color schemes.

Incorporating thoughtful details into a small front porch can transform it into a welcoming and stylish entrance. Whether it’s through the clever use of vertical gardening, multipurpose furniture, or vibrant accents, each choice is crucial in maximizing both the practicality and attractiveness of the area. These design ideas not only elevate the porch itself but also contribute to the overall ambiance of the home’s exterior.

56+ Aesthetic Small Front Porch Decor Ideas (2025)
Doctor Explains | Nov 9, 2024

Creating a beautiful front porch is one of my favorite ways to make a welcoming first impression. A well-designed porch not only enhances your home’s curb appeal but also sets the tone for the rest of your home. Whether you love bold colors, elegant decor, or a rustic feel, there’s something special about each design that can inspire you to create your dream front porch.

ALSO! Read about a Texas mom who turned her porch decorating abilities into a booming side hustle that earned her $100,000 in 2020!

For 2025, the Pantone Color Institute selects PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse, a warming, brown hue imbued with richness. It nurtures us with its suggestion of the delectable qualities of chocolate and coffee, answering our desire for comfort. PANTONE created five unique color palettes featuring PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse, each conveying its own distinctive feeling and mood — SCROLL DOWN TO SEE ALL 5️⃣!

ABOUT | The Pantone Color of the Year program engages the design community and color enthusiasts in a conversation around color, highlighting the relationship between color and culture. Pantone selects a color each year that captures the global zeitgeist—the Color of the Year express a global mood and an attitude, reflecting collective desire in the form of a single, distinct hue.

Want to help fire victims? The best way to support Los Angeles in the short and long term.

California Fire Foundation Wildfire & Disaster Relief Fund

The California Fire Foundation works with community-based organizations and local fire agencies to offer financial support for residents who are impacted by the fires.

Wildfire Recovery Fund

The California Community Foundation has worked to help Los Angeles County since 1915.

The agency’s Wildfire Recovery Fund targets hard to reach communities in the area with the intent of providing long-term recovery relief.

Los Angeles Regional Food Bank

The Los Angeles Regional Food Bank is working with government agencies, nonprofit and faith-based organizations to distribute food and other essentials to those displaced by the wildfires with meals.

Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation

The Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation is a nonprofit organization that provides vital equipment for firefighters and funds programs that are critical to help the agency continue to protect communities and save lives.

Mercy Chefs

Mercy Chefs is a nonprofit organization specializing in disaster relief to provide meals to victims, firefighters, first responders and volunteers.

The organization has provided more than 28 million restaurant-quality meals across the country and around the world.

American Red Cross

The American Red Cross has hundreds of volunteers deploying to Los Angeles to assist with emergent needs of those displaced by the fire.

The agency currently has four shelters in place and plans to add more as needed, according to Los Angeles regional executive director Joanne Nowlin.

“This is significant,” Nowlin told ABC News. “It’s not just the fire, but you’ve got wind damage, you’ve got power outages, you’ve got trees falling, deteriorating air quality. This is impacting thousands and thousands of folks in Los Angeles.”

The American Red Cross provides emergency relief to residents and families impacted by disasters, providing meals, medical care and a safe place to shower and sleep.

Aliso Summit Trail

Las Ramblas Trail

Ridgeline Trail

Black Star Canyon

San Clemente Beach Trail

Colinas Bluff Trail

Salt Creek Trail

Bedford Peak

Quail Loop

Peters Canyon Loop Trail

The Top Of The World Hike

Back Bay Loop Trail

1. Soil Erosion

2. Roof Damage

3. Foundation Cracks

4. Drainage Problems

5. Basement Flooding

6. Gutter Overflow

7. Mold Growth

1 / 10

2 / 10

Bring on the Drinks

3 / 10

Do a Dip

4 / 10

Play Some Games

5 / 10

Build a Snack Stadium

6 / 10

Set the Scene

7 / 10

Wing It

8 / 10

Show Your Spirit

9 / 10

Pick a Winning Dessert

10 / 10

Hand Out Swag Bags

OC Rainy Season Checklist

Things to Do in Orange County ALL Weekend

Things to Do in Orange County – Friday, January 31, 2025

Things to Do in Orange County – Saturday, February 1, 2025

Things to Do in Orange County – Sunday, February 2, 2025

Free Things to Do This Weekend in OC

Fun Things to Do this Weekend in OC

Want to help fire victims? The best way to support Los Angeles in the short and long term.

California Fire Foundation Wildfire & Disaster Relief Fund

Wildfire Recovery Fund

Los Angeles Regional Food Bank

Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation

Mercy Chefs

American Red Cross

CA REAL ESTATE GROUP

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