We’re already a few weeks into 2025 but there’s still another new year to usher in—the Lunar New Year.
The annual event is tied to the start of the Chinese calendar, which this year falls on January 29. Also known as Spring Festival or the Chinese New Year, many Asian countries and cultures celebrate this holiday in addition to China, including Vietnam and South Korea among others, with each country incorporating their own customs.
The holiday, which dates back over 3,000 years, lasts 16 days and typically takes place between the months of January and February. Each New Year corresponds to a zodiac animal, which rotates over a 12-year period. This year is the snake, which represents being cautious yet cool, with abundant sensitivity and wisdom.
Celebratory events often include special meals, festive parades, and dance troupes, and many will take place here in Orange County. Here are the best area gatherings from family-friendly presentations and events to a city-wide festival with fireworks.
Ring in a magical New Year at Disney in January and February with special menus celebrating Asian cuisine, character appearances in themed dress, festive decor, crafts and activities, and scheduled events. Don’t miss Mulan’s Lunar New Year Procession, a parade of characters and performers held on select days, as well as Hurry Home – A Lunar New Year Celebration, which is a six-minute light and water show accompanied by a musical score from Academy Award-winning composer Tan Dun.
The city of Santa Ana will host their second annual Lunar New Year Festival, organized together with the Santa Ana Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Agency and the Santa Ana Public Library. This free family-friendly event in Centennial Park will honor Asian cultures and include cultural performances and exhibits, lion and dragon dances, food vendors, a kids zone with inflatables, and culminate with a fireworks show in the evening.
The Pacific Symphony will commemorate the Lunar New Year with a ticketed performance at Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall at Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa. The program, conducted by Music Director Carl St. Clair, will include a magnificent presentation celebrating Eastern and Western cultures through a variety of dances and musical numbers.
Steelcraft, an outdoor urban eatery with multiple food vendors, will host their annual Lunar New Year festival this month at their Garden Grove location. Celebrate the year of the snake with a pop-up market, dancers, kids crafts and sensory play, and live music.
The UVSA Tết Festival bills itself as the largest Vietnamese New Year festival in the United States and this year’s 43rd annual event will celebrate the Year of the Snake, and also commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Fall of Saigon. The festival will include a cultural village, live entertainment, games and rides, food vendors, a fireworks show, and a Miss Vietnam of Southern California pageant.
For a kid-centric celebration, take children to this museum where they’ll be treated to a special event just for them. The Pretend City Children’s Museum will present a cultural performance of music and movement from the Kishin Daiko Drummers who perform Japanese percussive-style drumming, as well as a traditional lion dance.
For the last 20 years, the city of Westminster has welcomed the new year with a large celebration in the neighborhood of Little Saigon. As in the past, this year will honor the local Vietnamese community with a parade of floats, marching bands, lion dances, cultural attire, and more.
Cost: Free
When: Saturday, February 1, 2025
Time: An opening Ceremony begins at 8:30 a.m. and the parade starts at 9:30 a.m.
The Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens in San Clemente provides a wide range of programming for all ages and their weekly “Family Sundays” program will take on a Lunar New Year theme in February. For this special event, the cultural center will offer free admission that day with a celebration set tol include a lion dance as well as arts and craft projects for kids.
Written by Emily Hochberg
Emily Hochberg is a travel and lifestyle writer and editor based in Southern California with over 15 years of experience covering hotels, luxury, destinations, transportation, parenting, style, entertainment, reviews, and much more. She was previously Senior Travel Editor at Business Insider, and has written for Travel + Leisure, The Points Guy, Thrillist, US News & World Report, TODAY, Parents, Apartment Therapy, and many more. For more information on her work and travels, visit her website.
Looking for plans this New Year’s Eve? Look no further! Here are the finest events taking place this New Year’s Eve and also on New Year’s Day.
Sun-kissed beaches, vibrant fireworks, and outdoor celebrations under the starry sky, New Year’s Eve in Southern California is a magical experience. New Year’s Eve festivities are fast approaching and we couldn’t be more excited. To help you celebrate, we have curated a list of the best events in Orange County and beyond. From chic adults-only soirees to intimate, family-friendly gatherings, Southern California offers a diverse range of New Year’s Eve celebrations. As 2024 draws to a close, the region will host a plethora of events, each promising a distinctive and memorable experience. Let’s delve into some of the most noteworthy events that will usher in 2025 with style.
A Christmas Story and Home Alone are classics, but this list of funny, romantic and animated holiday flicks offers up some great alternatives.
Everyone has a favorite Christmas movie. In my family, we’ve made it a holiday tradition to gather around the television on Christmas Eve and watch The Polar Express. Even though I’ve watched it countless times, year after year, it never fails to put me in the holiday spirit. While the film that tops your personal list may not be up for debate, I’m here to offer a few new additions to your annual holiday movie marathon queue that will add a little extra holly to your jolly.
With all of the options out there, I made the effort to narrow down the absolute best Christmas moviesof all time that are sure to keep your holiday season merry and bright. This list of action, drama, rom-com and kid-friendly Christmastime flicks spans nearly nine decades of cinema. Best part? Most of these are streaming on Netflix, Max, Amazon Prime, Hulu, Disney+ and more.
Whether you’re a fan of sentimental movies about hope, like It’s a Wonderful Life, or enjoy the antics of a large family struggling to get along during the holidays — National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, anyone? — you’re bound to find a popular title to enjoy on this list.
Hosting a Thanksgiving that your family will remember for years to come includes more than just serving up an amazing meal. (Though, that’s still a major part of it.) What will really leave you and your loved ones with lasting memories will be the experience you have while spending time with each other.
That’s why Thanksgiving games are the perfect way to make Turkey Day tons more fun, especially if you have kids. We’ve rounded up a combination of festive crafts, engaging activities and challenging trivia that will keep the entire family entertained.
While bingo and scavenger hunts will almost certainly ensure a day full of fun for large groups or teams, there are also games like word search, “I spy” and Thanksgiving riddles that are still fun to play even with one or two people.
If your family happens to be partial to minute-to-win-it games, we have a few of those, too. Just don’t forget to give out special prizes to the winners. If you need inspiration, our Thanksgiving gifts can help with that.
Californians celebrate Veteran’s Day in nearly every city and community throughout the state. The events take place on November 11 and surrounding days to honor U.S. veterans who have served in the United States Armed Forces.
Veterans Day National Ceremony is held annually on November 11th, with one national service at Arlington National Cemetery. It starts with a wreath laying at the Tomb of the Unknowns and continues inside the Memorial Amphitheater with a parade of colors by veterans’ organizations.
The day will be filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country’s service and with gratitude for the victory, both because of the thing from which it has freed us and because of the opportunity it has given America to show her sympathy with peace and justice in the councils of the nations, said President Woodrow Wilson when he declared the first celebration would be called Armistice Day. Congress amended it in 1954, replacing “Armistice” with “Veterans.”
Veterans Day 2024
ALHAMBRA: Veterans Day November 11, 2024, 10-11:30 a.m. to be celebrated at Alhambra Park. The annual veterans ceremony at the Veterans Memorial in Alhambra Park, 500 N. Palm Ave. The City of Alhambra and American Legion Post 139 host the annual ceremony which includes continental breakfast at 10 a.m. followed by the ceremony at 11 a.m. The public is welcome. cityofalhambra.org
AMERICAN CANYON: Veterans Day November 11, 2024, 11 a.m.-12 p.m. City of American Canyon Community Center Gym, 100 Benton Way. Includes presentation, invocation and guest speakers. Keynote Speaker, Student performances, veterans service organization booths, and refreshments, Free, cityofamericancanyon.org
ANAHEIM: Veteran’s Day Flags of Honor November 8-11, 2024, at Eucalyptus Park in Anaheim Hills. Remembrance Ceremony November 10, 2024, 10 a.m. 200+ U.S. flags stand in solemn formation to honor our heroes. The flags fly for three days so visitors can walk through the field to read the posted dedications attached to each flag. Location: 100 N. Quintana Drive, Anaheim, CA. Free, Sponsored by Anaheim Rotary Club. facebook.com/AnaheimHillsRotaryClub/
ANAHEIM: Veteran’s Day Tribute, November 11, 2024 (must confirm), at 241 S. Anaheim Blvd, Anaheim, CA. Annual event normally taking place on Nov.11. anaheim.net/1626/Veterans-Tribute
ANTIOCH: Rivertown Veterans Day Parade memorial at the Antioch Marina November 11, 2024. Pancake Breakfast at the Antioch Veterans Memorial, 5 Marina Plaza, L Street at 8 a.m. is hosted by the Antioch Rivertown Veterans Lions Club. Veteran’s Day Ceremony starts at 9:30 a.m. The Parade starts at 11 a.m. at the Marina heads east on Second Street. deltaveteransgroup.org
ARTESIA: Veterans Day Celebration November 9, 2024, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. in Artesia Park at Veterans Memorial. Music, a Veteran’s Breakfast (free while supplies last), display booths, kids area, vehicle display of a Vietnam era Huey Helicopter, and an Air Force Flyover! Honored guest speaker for the event is Retired U.S. Army Major Ed Choi, a Purple Heart and Bronze Star recipient. Location: 18750 Clarkdale Ave., Artesia, CA cityofartesia.us
ATASCADERO: Faces of Freedom Veterans Memorial November 11, 2024 at 11 a.m. Live music and a community BBQ hosted by Kiwanis follow the ceremony. visitatascadero.com
AUBURN: Veterans Day Parade Honoring Cold War Veterans 1945 – 1991, November 11, 2024, 10:50 a.m. Parade begins at the corner of Lincoln Way and Cleveland Street and proceeds down Lincoln Way. The parade will pause at the Central Square at 11 a.m. There will be a brief patriotic ceremony with the release of doves, followed by a fly-over (weather permitting), a three volley rifle salute followed by TAPS. The parade resumes onto High Street and end at the Gold Country Fairgrounds. auburnveteransparade.org
AVALON: Veterans Day Ceremony, November 11, 2024, 11 a.m.-12 p.m. at Pebbly Beach. The Avalon VFW will host a Veterans Day Ceremony at Veterans Memorial Park in Avalon. The event includes a Presentation of the Colors by the VFW Post 4682 Honor Guard, and guest speakers. cityofavalon.com
BAKERSFIELD: Veterans Day Parade and Celebration November 11 , 2024, 10 a.m. outside KGET studios at 21st and L Streets, then heads west on 21st Street, south on G Street, then east on 20th Street. American Legion breakfast 6 a.m. Post 26 ( Veteran’s eat free) Flag Raising Ceremony 8 a.m. at Veteran’s Memorial Truxtun & S St. Veteran’s Day Parade 10 a.m. Lunch served after parade (Veteran’s eat free) eagleinfaith@gmail.com
BALDWIN PARK: Veterans Day Ceremony November 11, 2024, 1 p.m. honoring all Veterans from the community during a very special ceremony. Held at Morgan Park, Morgan Park, Cesar E. Chavez Amphitheater, 4100 Baldwin Park. Free, baldwinpark.com
BEAUMONT: Veterans Day Celebration & Parade November 11, 2024, 10 a.m. Parade begins at Beaumont & 12th St. and ends at the Beaumont Civic Center, 550 E. 6th Street where the ceremony takes place at 11 a.m. All welcomed! Free, beaumontca.gov
BELLFLOWER: Veteran’s Day Ceremony November 7, 2024, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. The public is invited to join in and honor those who have served. Veteran’s Memorial, 9918 Flower St., Bellflower, CA. bellflower.org
BREA: Brea Veterans Day Ceremony November 11, 2024, 10-11 a.m. at Brea Veterans Memorial. Join the Brea community t0 pay tribute to all military heroes, including veterans, active duty and those that made the ultimate sacrifice for our Country. Location: Civic & Cultural Center. 1 Civic Center Circle, Brea, CA. Free, breaspecalevents.com
BRENTWOOD: Brentwood Veterans Day Parade November 10, 2024, 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m. in Downtown Brentwood included veterans and veteran-owned businesses. Civilians can participate by signing up for the Flag Walk. brentwoodca.gov
BUENA PARK: Veterans Honor Luncheon November 6, 2024, 12 p.m. Location: Ehlers Event Center, 8150 Knott Ave., Buena Park, CA buenapark.com
BURBANK: Veterans Day Ceremony and War Memorial Dedication November 11, 2024, 10:15 a.m. concert with Burbank Community Band and flyover by Condor Squadron; 11 a.m. ceremony at McCambridge Park War Memorial (at the corner of Amherst & San Fernando) Cost: Free Event, burbankca.gov
CARLSBAD: Veterans Day Parade and Military Review presented by Army & Navy Academy. November 11, 2024, tribute to the brave men and women who have served and continue to serve our nation in the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Space Force, and Coast Guard. Location: 2605 Carlsbad Blvd., Carlsbad, CA. Free, armyandnavyacademy.org
CARMEL: Veterans Day Ceremony November 11, 2024, 11 a.m. Ceremony held in Devendorf Park on Ocean Avenue, honoring our veterans, sponsored by the Carmel by the Sea chapter of the American Legion. alpost512carmel.org | posted on carmelcalifornia.com
CARSON: Veterans Day Ceremony November 11, 2024, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. held in Veterans Park. Keynote speech. Location: 2400 Moneta Ave, Carson, CA. Free, ci.carson.ca.us
CASTRO VALLEY: Veterans Day Program November 11, 2024, 11 a.m. at Castro Valley Veterans Memorial, 3567 Quail Ave. Veterans of Castro Valley welcome you to cerebrate our Veterans Past and Present with a full program, including Military Honors. Special remembrance events are held every Veterans Day at 11 a.m. The public is invited. Veterans are encouraged to wear their uniforms or other clothing that distinguishes them as military veterans.
CERRITOS: Veterans Day Ceremony November 11, 2024, 10 a.m. The community is invited to attend the City of Cerritos Veterans Day Ceremony near the Cerritos Veterans Memorial in the Cerritos Civic Center. Patriotic selections performed by the Cerritos College Community Band, City Council and dignitary comments, wreath laying, and a moment of silence. In addition, children’s patriotic crafts will be offered. Parking is available at the Civic Center.Parking is available at the Civic Center. Event will occur rain or shine. Location: 18125 Bloomfield Ave., Cerritos, CA. Free, cerritos.us
CHOWCHILLA: VFW Veterans Commemoration Ceremony on November 11, 2024, 11 a.m.- 12:p.m. Veterans Memorial Park, 600 W. Robertson Blvd. Veterans Ceremony is held to pay tribute to the men and women that have given their service to our country. The public is encouraged to attend. The event is co-sponsored by Veterans of Foreign Wars & VFW Ladies Auxiliary and American Legion. Free, cityofchowchilla.org
CLAREMONT: Veterans Day Ceremony 11 a.m. at Memorial Park. The keynote speaker is General (Ret.) Austin Scott Miller. Location: 840 N. Indian Hill Boulevard, Claremont, CA. ci.claremont.ca.us
COLTON: Veterans Day Parade November 11, 2024, 10 a.m. Honor and celebrate our Colton Veterans who have served in the United States Armed Forces. Parade starts on O Street, Head North and end at ‘D’ Street. Light refreshments at the Colton Downtown Paseo, located at 135 West Valley Boulevard. Honor Ceremony immediately following the parade at Fleming Park, 525 N. La Cadena Drive. Free, ci.colton.ca.us
COMMERCE: Veterans Day Ceremony November 11, 2024, 9 a.m. at Commerce City Hall. Ceremony followed by light refreshments. Location:2535 Commerce Way, Commerce, CA. Free, (323) 887-4434
COSTA MESA: Salute to Veterans November 9, 2024, 12-3 p.m. Swing dancing and musical performances, arts & crafts, a cookie decorating contest, opportunities to connect with local veterans’ organizations, free hot dogs and drinks, and more! The community is invited to this free event. Location: OC Fair & Event Center – Heroes Hall, 88 Fair Dr., Costa Mesa, CA. Free. ocfair.com
CUPERTINO: Veterans Day Memorial Event November 11, 2024, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Cupertino Veterans Memorial Veterans Memorial at Memorial Park, Mary Ave & Stevens Creek. Line up: Invocation with Chaplain Richard Veit US Army Viet Nam Combat Veteran | National Anthem by Reyna Padron, Police Cadet, on Violin | Speakers Major General Tracy Smith, USA Commanding General 63rd Readiness Division; and Former Navy Seal Team 5 Captain CDR Tom Deitz (USN, Ret) Leadership by Example | Taps by SGT Sam Grinels, USMC | Music by West Bay Community Band. Location: 10110 Parkwood Drive, Cupertino, CA. cupertinoveteransmemorial.org
DANA POINT: P0st 9934 Veterans of Foreign Wars, Ladies Auxiliary and the City invite the public on November 11, 2024, 10 a.m. (must confirm time) at Strands Vista Park, 34201 Selva Rd. Free, vfwpost9934.org
DIAMOND BAR: Veterans Celebration November 7, 2024, 9-11 a.m. at Diamond Bar Center, 1600 Grand Ave. includes patriotic musical performances and light refreshments. Attendance is free and open to everyone, diamondbarca.gov/specialevents
DOWNEY: Veterans Day Ceremony November 11, 2024, 10-11 a.m. at The Columbia Memorial Space Center 12400 Columbia Way. The City of Downey will be holding its annual Veterans Day Ceremony. City officials will be present to take part in this special event and the public is invited to attend to help honor and pay tribute to those who have served our Country. downeyca.org
DUARTE: Veterans Day Ceremony November 11, 2024, 9 a.m. at Veterans Memorial Thorsen Park, honoring all who served. Location: Thorsen Park, 2801 Huntington Drive. Seating available at the ceremony and refreshments, donated by the Duarte Kiwanis Club will be served immediately after the ceremony. accessduarte.com
EL CERRITO: El Cerrito Flag Ceremony November 11, 2024, 8 a.m. at Sunset View Cemetery. Join El Cerrito Lions Club for a brief ceremony in honor of veterans and the annual Veterans Day placement of flags on the graves of those who served. Coffee, juice, and doughnuts. Location: 101 Colusa Ave.
ELK GROVE: Elk Grove Veterans Day Parade & Picnic. Join Cosumnes CSD and the Elk Grove American Legions with a ceremony, parade, and community picnic. 10 am ceremonial Reading of the Names to commemorate the community’s service men and women at Cosumnes CSD Administration Building, 8820 Elk Grove Blvd. The parade begins at 11:11 am at Cosumnes CSD Administration Building, 8820 Elk Grove Blvd. Travel east on Elk Grove Blvd. Turn right and head south along Elk Grove-Florin Road Turn right into Elk Grove Park and end there. Community Picnic Immediately following the parade Elk Grove Park, 9950 Elk Grove-Florin Road, Picnic sites 9A & 9B Open to the public First come, first served. cosumnescsd.gov/ 1370/Veterans-Day-Parade
FAIRFIELD: Veterans Day Parade “Never Forget, Forever Honor” & Commemoration Ceremony November 11, 2024 at 10 a.m. At 10 a.m. listen to a patriotic concert hosted by Travis Air Force Base and conducted by the Fairfield/Suisun City American Legion Reams Post 182. It kicks off inside the Downtown Theatre located at 1035 Texas Street. The Veterans Day Parade assembles at 12:30 p.m. at Webster and Kentucky Street. The parade route: Kentucky Street to Great Jones then turn up Texas Street to Washington. visitfairfieldca.com
FALLBROOK: Veterans Day Parade November 11, 2024, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Parade begins at 10 a.m. at corner of Fallbrook Street and Main Avenue, and ends at Alvarado Street. At 11 a.m. there’s a ceremony at Village Square. At 12 p.m. Noon veterans can attend a free lunch at VFW Post 1925. Fallbrook, CA. Free, fallbrookchamberofcommerce.org
FOLSOM: Wayne Spence Veterans Day Parade November 11, 2024, 9 a.m. Starts at E. Bidwell Street from Montrose Drive, heading westbound on E. Bidwell Street, then northbound on Coloma Street to Natoma Street. At the Folsom Lions Park the parade concludes with a brief ceremony at the Veterans Memorial in Folsom City Lions Park. 3,000 participants include marching bands, floats, classic cars, riders on horseback, color guard and more. Free, folsom.ca.us
FOUNTAIN VALLEY: Veteran’s Day Ceremony November 11, 2024, 10 a.m. at Veteran’s Park. Location: 17635 Los Alamos Street, Fountain Valley, CA. Free, fountainvalley.gov
FRESNO: Veterans Day Parade, Largest Veterans Day Parade on the West Coast marks 105 years on November 11, 2024, 11:11 a.m. in front of Fresno City Hall. Pre-program starts at 10 a.m. The goal is to honor all of our service men and women in a huge show of appreciation each year. In 2024 the parade offers a special salute to the United States Navy! centralvalleyvdp.org
FULLERTON: Fullerton Veterans Day Parade & Ceremony November 11, 2024, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
The parade begins at Harbor Blvd and Wilshire Avenue at 10:30 a.m. The parade goes north on Harbor Blvd and culminates at the Hillcrest Park Great Lawn at 1200 N. Harbor Blvd. The ceremony is held next to the War Memorial at 11 a.m. The program consists of songs, prayers, inspirational messages, and other remembrances to honor those who served their country through military service. The event hosted by the American Legion Post 142 is free and all are welcome to attend. cityoffullerton.com
GRAND TERRACE: The City of Grand Terrace Veterans Day Celebration November 11, 2024, 11 a.m. The Veterans Wall of Freedom Organization and the Foundation of Grand Terrace present the Veterans Wall of Freedom at 21950 Pico Street. The Veterans Day Celebration will salute veterans who have served or are serving in the United States military. The Veterans Wall of Freedom was dedicated on Veterans Day 2016. The monument spells out the word FREEDOM in six-foot block letters with over 1600 granite plaque spaces for veterans covering the front of the letters. veteranswalloffreedom.org
GREENVILLE: Annual Veterans Day Parade November 11, 2024, 11 a.m. The parade begins on Main Street and crosses Highway 89 with the ceremony being held on Main Street, Greenville, CA. Free hot dog lunch, dessert and bingo after the parade sponsored by Wolf Creek Blue Star Mothers. Free, eventbrite.com or indianvalleychamber.org
HAWAIIAN GARDENS: Veteran’s Day Commemoration November 8, 2024, 8-10 a.m. at C. Robert Lee Activity Center, 21815 Pioneer Blvd., Hawaiian Gardens, CA. Free, hgcity.org
HAYWARD: Veterans Day Ceremony November 9, 2024, 1-2 p.m. at Lone Tree Cemetery. Location: 24591 Fairview Avenue, Hayward, CA. Public invited, lonetreecemetery.com
HOLLISTER: Veteran’s Day Parade November 11, 2024, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Schedule: 11 a.m. Veterans Appreciation Ceremony and Banner Presentation at Veteran’s Memorial Building Plaza. 12 p.m. Noon BBQ Lunch $15 & veterans are free! 1:30 p.m. Veteran’s Day Parade in Downtown Hollister. Come downtown to celebrate and remember the courageous men and women of the armed forces who protect and serve the nation. downtownhollister.org
HOLTVILLE: Veterans Day Parade November 2, 2024. 10 a.m. Free Breakfast for all Veterans 7:30-9 a.m. at American Legion, 225 W. 6th Street. Veteran’s Day Parade at 10 a.m. on 5th Street from Walnut Ave. to Pine Ave, Farmer’s Market goes 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at Holt Park, 121 W. 5th St. Free, holtville.ca.gov
HUNTINGTON BEACH: Veterans Day Ceremony November 11, 2024, 11 a.m. at Pier Plaza. The event includes a flag ceremony, music and dignitary speeches. Join the City of Huntington Beach and American Legion Huntington Beach Post 133. All are welcome to honor our Vets. Location: Pacific Coast Highway at Main Street, paid parking at Huntington City Beach next to Huntington Beach Pier. hbpost133.com
IRVINE: Veterans Day November 11, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at Colonel Bill Barber Marine Corps Memorial Park. The City of Irvine hosts a special ceremony in the Formal Garden to pay tribute to our nation’s troops past and present. The event is free and open to the public. Location: 1 Civic Center Plaza, Irvine, CA. Free, cityofirvine.org/specialevents or call 949-724-6606.
IRWINDALE: Veterans Day Ceremony – November 11, 2024, 11 a.m. at Veterans Memorial. Location: 5050 N. Irwindale Avenue, Irwindale, CA. Join the city in honoring Irwindale Veterans at the annual Veterans Day Ceremony. Free, irwindaleca.gov
JACKSON: Jackson Veterans Day Parade November 11, 2024, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Downtown Jackson, Jackson, CA. According to the City of Jackson, this event begins every November 11 at 11 a.m. in Downtown Jackson. ci.jackson.ca.us
LAGUNA NIGUEL: Veterans Day Ceremony November 11, 2024, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at Sea Country Senior & Community Center, 24602 Aliso Creek Road, Laguna Niguel, CA Free, cityoflagunaniguel.org
LA HABRA: Veterans Day Program November 11, 2024, 11 a.m. at Community Center, 101 W. La Habra Blvd. The formal part of the program starts at 11 a.m. All are invited to attend this free event, lahabracity.com, (562) 383-4200.
LAKE ELSINORE: Veterans Day Observance Ceremony November 11, 2024, 9-10:30 a.m. at Lake Elsinore Stadium, 500 Diamond Drive. Everyone is welcomed and encouraged to attend this event that honors those who have selflessly and bravely served our country to protect and maintain our freedom. Recent Veteran Memorial Brick honorees will be announced and unveiled at the event. Honor a Veteran and purchase a personalized engraved brick at the City’s Veterans Memorial. Free ceremony, lake-elsinore.org
LAKE FOREST: 35th Annual Veterans Day Program November 11, 2024, 11 a.m. at El Toro Memorial Park. provided by the South Coast Chapter, Sons of the American Revolution Color Guard, Veterans and Blue & Gold Star Mothers, wreath presentation, VFW Edward J. Kearns Post 6024 honor guard firing salute, vocalist John Huntington, and Amazing Grace on the bagpipes by Richard Cook. Rain or shine. Questions (949) 951-9102. 25751. Location: 25752 Trabuco Road, Lake Forest, CA. Free, public invited, occemeterydistrict.com
LA PUENTE: Veterans Day Ceremony November 11, 2024, 9 a.m. at La Puente City Hall. Help honor the brave men and women who have selflessly served and sacrificed for our nation. Questions: (626) 855-1550. Location: 15900 Main St., La Puente, CA. Free, lapuente.org/ veterans-day-ceremony-2/
LA QUINTA: Veterans Day Ceremony November 11, 2024, 9-11 a.m. at La Quinta Civic Center Courtyard. All invited, free. Location: 78495 Calle Tampico, La Quinta, CA. laquintaca.gov
LA VERNE: Veterans Day Ceremony November 11, 2024, 11 a.m. at Veterans Hall, 1550 Bonita Ave., Free, cityoflaverne.org
LAWNDALE: Annual Field of Honor November 7-12, 2024 at Lawndale Civic Center, 14717 Burin Avenue, Lawndale, CA 90260 Flags fly in tribute to Veterans, those currently serving in the Armed Forces and those who died defending our nation on battlefields far from home. healingfield.org
LEMOORE: 11th Annual Veterans Day Parade “Heroes Welcome” November 11, 2024, 6-8 p.m. in Downtown Lemoore. The Parade honors all who served. The route is on D Street between Follett Street and Hill Street. Floats, lights and sounds encouraged. Hosted by the American Legion Post 100. Free, facebook.com/CityofLemoore/
LOMITA: Veteran’s Day Ceremony in Veteran’s Park, November 11, 2024, 11 a.m. (approx.) Location: 257th Street & Walnut. Free, lomita.com
LONG BEACH: Veterans Day Festival November 9, 2024, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. at Houghton Park. Food trucks, live music and this year Beach Streets open streets event is held in conjunction with Veterans Day event to make for more attendance as bikes, blades and pedal power takes over. The Veterans Hub of this mega event features Grand Marshal JB Jaso, Mr. Quick DJ sets, Flyovers with historic aircraft at 2 p.m., food trucks and a beer garden, boot camp style obstacle course, Skate Zone with skate park demos and skateboarding lessons by Skate Dogs Kids Zone with live performances by the Bob Baker Marionette Theater and DJ Mike, plus the Aquarium of the Pacific’s Aquarium on Wheels. Veterans Recognition Ceremony at 2 p.m. Location: Houghton Park near Veterans Valor Plaza, 6301 Myrtle Ave., Long Beach, CA. Free, longbeach.gov
LOS ANGELES: Forest Lawn Veterans Day Celebration November 11, 2024, 11 a.m. Keynote speaker, patriotic music, family friendly performances and light refreshments, public invited. Location: 6300 Forest Lawn Drive, Los Angeles, CA. forestlawn.com
MANHATTAN BEACH: Veterans Day Multi-Generation Ceremony November 11, 2024, 11 a.m.-12 p.m. at Manhattan Beach Veterans Monument, Ardmore and Valley Drive. Entertainment, guests and dignitaries, Presentation of the Colors by the Manhattan Beach Police Department Honor Guard, Singing of the National Anthem, The Pledge of Allegiance and Keynote Address. Manhattan Beach, CA 90266. citymb.info
MARTINEZ: Contra Costa County Veterans Day Ceremony November 5, 2024, 11 a.m. at Board of Supervisors Chambers where the Board will honor the Port Chicago sailors and their families. Martinez, CA. contracosta.ca.gov
MARYSVILLE: Yuba-Sutter Veterans Day Parade “Supporting Our Troops, Past, Present and Future” November 11, 2024, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. The parade route follows D Street in Historic Downtown Marysville like this: Starts at 7th Street on D Street, making a left turn across 3rd Street, then left down C Steet. Breakfast 7-10 a.m. at Elks Lodge; BBQ Lunch following parade at River’s Edge Pub. facebook.com/yubasutterveteransdayparade/
McCLELLAN: Veterans Day Open Cockpit at McClellan Park November 11, 2024, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Explore the cockpits of historic aircraft and learn about their fascinating history. Celebrate and honor our veterans while gaining a deeper appreciation for their service. Location: Aerospace Museum of California, 3200 Freedom Park Drive, McClellan, CA. $17, veterans free admission, aerospaceca.org
MERCED: Merced County Veterans Day Parade November 11, 2024, 11 a.m., Parade begins at 12 p.m. The parade, which began in 1960, travels along Main Street in downtown Merced, starting at Calimyrna Avenue and ending at O Street. All entries honor the military veterans of Merced County. co.merced.ca.us/1585/Veterans-Day-Parade
MERCED:Field of Honor November 9-16, 2024, 1-6 p.m. Includes $ Run for the Fallen 5K, 10K at Merced College on 11/10 and Veterans Parade on 11/11. Free, mercedfieldofhonor.org/
MILPITAS: Veterans Day Ceremony November 11, 2024, 9-10 a.m. Held to honor men and women who have served for the cause of America’s freedom, show your appreciation for all veterans. Light refreshments will be served following the ceremony, rain or shine. Location: Veterans Plaza at Milpitas City Hall 455 E. Calaveras Blvd. between City Hall & Community Center. ci.milpitas.ca.gov
MISSION VIEJO: Veterans Day Observance November 11, 2024, 8:30-9:30 a.m. Norman P. Murray Community Center. Keynote speaker Colonel Charles Readinger, Commanding Officer of Headquarter Battalion, First Marine Division and guest speaker retired Senior Chief, United States Navy, Gary Tegel; patriotic songs; presentation of colors by the Marine Color Guard; three-volley rifle salute; taps; sign language interpretation. Outdoor reception in the Veterans Plaza after ceremony. Location: 24932 Veterans Way, Mission Viejo, CA. Free, cityofmissionviejo.org/events/veterans-day-observance-1
MORAGA: Veterans Day Ceremony November 11, 2024, 9-10 a.m. at Moraga Commons Veterans Memorial with speakers and free refreshments. Join Moraga Boy Scout Troops 212, 234 and 246 at 1425 St. Marys Road, Moraga. moraga.ca.us
MURRIETA:Field of Honor November 9-16, 2024 at Town Square Park. Veterans Day Parade November 11, 2024, 10 a.m. Starts with National Anthem, possibly a flyover, too. Ivy & Washington, B Street to Town Square, Murrieta, CA murrietaca.gov
NEWPORT BEACH: Veterans Day BBQ November 11, 2024, 11:30 a.m.-6 p.m. at Post 291. The Funk Doctors Band performs, and BBQ is sold with a $20 deal featuring 2 meat options of BBQ Chicken, BBQ Ribs, Pulled Pork, Burger, Hot Dog and cole slaw, baked beans, potato salad. Location: 215 15th Street, Newport Beach, CA. No reservations, al291.com
ORANGE: Field of Valor November 9-15, 2024. Opening ceremony Nov.9, 2:30 p.m.; Marine Corps Birthday Nov.10, 10 a.m.; Veterans Day Ceremony Nov.11, 11 a.m.; all events at Handy Park. Flag sponsorship $35. Location: 2143 E. Oakmont Ave., Orange, CA. Free, communityfoundationoforange.org
OROVILLE: Veterans Day Parade November 11, 2024, 11 a.m. Honors service men and women with a parade down Montgomery St. from 5th St. in historic Downtown Oroville to Oroville Veterans’ for all of Butte County Memorial Park. See marching bands, floats, historic military vehicles and more. Join Exchange Club of Oroville in showing gratitude and support on this special day, honoring those who served. visitoroville.com/veterans-day-parade.html
PALM SPRINGS: Palm Springs Veterans Day Parade November 11, 2024, 3:30 p.m. The City of Palm Springs proudly presents the annual parade begins at Ramon Road and Palm Canyon Drive and heads northbound on Palm Canyon Drive to Alejo Road.
PALO ALTO: Veterans Day Recognition Event, “A Legacy of Loyalty and Serive” November 11, 2024, 3-4 p.m. The City of Palo Alto and Stanford University again partner Keynote Speaker: Congresswoman Anna Eshoo
Guest speakers: City of Palo Alto Mayor, Greer-Stone, and Stanford University Vice President and Chief External Relations Officer, Martin Shell. South Bay Blue Star Moms present a quilt to World War II Veteran Ernestine, Ernie Faxon, an American Legion member and third generation Palo Altan. Stanford University Department of Music soloist Nova Jimenez. A reception follows in the MacArthur Park Restaurant. Enjoy hors d’oeuvres, cake, and company with other attendees.
Parking is available in the adjacent parking lots to the Mac Arthur Park. Location: 3801 Miranda Ave., Palo Alto, CA. Free, public invited, cityofpaloalto.org
PASADENA: Veterans Day Celebration November 11, 2024, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. City Hall, Centennial Square. Flyover at 11:11 a.m. All are invited to join the City of Pasadena and the Pasadena Veterans Day Committee to pay tribute to veterans in the community. Enjoy Guest speaker, displays of World War II memorabilia, children’s arts and crafts, free food, Condor Squadron flyover, and more. Location: 100 N. Garfield Ave., Pasadena, CA. Free, cityofpasadena.net
PERRIS: Veterans Day Parade November 2, 2024, 9 a.m. on Downtown D Street Route. Entertainment starts at 9, parade begins at 10 a.m. Free, cityofperris.org
PETALUMA: Petaluma Veterans Day Parade and Flyover November 11, 2024, 12 p.m. Concert, 1 p.m. parade begins. Theme: Welcome Home to All Vietnam Veterans is a special tribute to armed forces who served from 1961 to 1975. Event begins with music in Walnut Park at 12 p.m. The parade starts at 1 p.m. Huey helicopters, tanks, and more than 100 entries offer pomp and circumstance. At 2:45 p.m. the service offers prayer, the Pledge of Allegiance and guest speakers at Walnut Park, 201 Fourth Street. petalumaveteransparade.com
PICO RIVERA: Veterans Ceremony “A Salute to Our Armed Forces: Those Who Served and Those That Are Serving” November 11, 2024, 10 a.m. Pico Rivera Veterans Memorial & Eternal Flame, 9001 Mines Avenue. The City of Pico Rivera hosts Veterans Day Ceremony at the Pico Rivera Veterans Memorial Plaza and Eternal Flame. Federal, state and local officials attend along with members of Pico Rivera’s Veterans of Foreign Wars and American Legion posts. Free, pico-rivera.org
PINOLE: Veterans’ Day Memorial and Flag Retirement Ceremony November 11, 2024, 11 a.m.-12 p.m. at Fernandez Park. Honor our veterans, past and present, living and deceased. Worn U.S. flags by the Boy Scouts will highlight the hour-long ceremony. Please bring your worn and tattered flags to the ceremony, where they will be retired with proper respect. There is no charge to retire a flag. facebook.com/cityofpinole
PLACENTIA: Annual Veterans Day Observance Ceremony November 11, 2024, 10 a.m. at Civic Center, 401 East Chapman Avenue. Special guest speakers, patriotic music, and the new Military Banner Recognition Program recipients will be included in the event program. In addition, the added service members to the veterans monument will be honored, and their name inscriptions will be unveiled. (714) 993-8211. placentia.org
PLEASANTON: Tri-Valley Veteran’s Day Parade (and Concert) November 3, 2024, 1 p.m. marches down Main Street. 27th annual parade theme in 2024 is Military Chaplains. Organized and hosted by the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6298, American Legion Post 237 and the city of Pleasanton to honor all who serve or have served in the nation’s armed forces, the parade includes military, equestrian, bands and around 70 groups. A patriotic concert with Pleasanton Community Concert Band follows the parade near Veterans Memorial Building. Address: 301 Main Street Pleasanton CA. Free, trivalleyvdp.com
PORTERVILLE: Veterans Day Parade “Never Forgotten”10 a.m. in Downtown Porterville. 106th annual parade, the longest running veterans day parade west of the Mississippi, is produced by American Legion Post 20 with additional sponsorship from city and other entities. Free to see, Bob Atchley, 559-359-7932 or post20adj@gmail.com
PORTERVILLE: Veterans Day Run 5K/10K, November 11, 2024, 7:30 a.m. in front of City Hall, 291 N. Main Street, Porterville, CA. $28, $10 for veterans. Race starts downtown. ci.porterville.ca.us or runsignup.com
POWAY: Veteran’s Day Ceremony in the Park. November 11, 2024, 11 a.m. Join VFW Post 7907 and the Poway Veterans Park Committee for a ceremony to honor those who selflessly served our Country. Location: 14134 Midland Road Poway, CA. Cost: Free. poway.org
REDLANDS: Redlands Veterans Day Celebration & Parade November 11, 2024, 9 a.m. RHS on Redlands Blvd. and Citrus Ave. to Jennie Davis Park. Veterans Day Observance at Jennie Davis Park at 10:45 a.m. Celebration immediately follows with food vendors, beer garden with live music, fly overs, military vehicles, vendor booths and more. Hosted by American Legion Post 106 and Post 650.
RIVERSIDE: A Salute to Veterans Parade and Expo November 9, 2024, 10 a.m. Parade: starts near the Upper Parking lot at RCC. It makes its way down Magnolia Avenue turning right on 10th, then left on Main Street. The Expo is held at the end of the parade at John G. Gabbert Judicial Plaza, 3650 11th St.. Pancake Breakfast 7-9 a.m. at Lower RCC Parking Lot is fundraiser charging fee. Free to see, asalutetoveteran.org
ROHNERT PARK: Veterans’ Day Celebration November 11, 2024, 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Free admission. Rohnert Park Community Center, 5401 Snyder Lane. rpcommunityservices.org
SACRAMENTO: City of Sacramento Veterans Day Parade November 11, 2024, 11 a.m. at The Parade begins at 11 a.m. at Crocker Museum on 216 O Street, Sacramento, traveling east on Capitol Mall, south-bound on 9th St., then to the east on N St., then north on 15th St., west on L St., and then south on 10th St. Six food trucks sell ‘eats’ after the parade. Free, calvac.org or cityofsacramento.org
SALINAS: Annual Monterey County Veterans Day Parade November 11, 2024, 1-4 p.m. Old Salinas South Main: Chestnut to Central Avenue. Opening ceremony begins at 1 p.m. and parade at 2 p.m. Over 25,000 people attend this amazing parade featuring 150 units, bands, equestrian units, military vehicles, war heroes and more. Salinas, CA Free, montereycountyveteransdayparade.org
SAN BERNARDINO: Veterans Day Salute November 11, 2024, 9 a.m. in front of the Soldiers and Sailors Monument at the Feldheym Library. Event includes veterans groups, presentations and music. sbcity.org/parks
SAN DIEGO: Veteran’s Day Parade November 11, 2024, 10 a.m. on N. Harbor Drive. Route: The one mile route proceeds south on N Harbor Drive past a long row of grand stands, and past the Wyndham Bayside Hotel, and past the B Street Pier, to Broadway where the route turns left onto Broadway for one block to Pacific Highway, and turns right onto Pacific Highway to proceed south for two blocks to end at G Street and the Dismissal Area. sdvetparade.org
SAN FERNANDO VALLEY / PACOIMA: Veteran’s Day Parade November 11, 2024, 11:11 a.m. San Fernando Mission Blvd. and Laurel Canyon Blvd. 2024 Grand Marshal Specialist 4 Edward Landin U.S. Army 1971-1973. Route: Corner of Laurel Canyon Blvd. and San Fernando Mission Blvd, proceed down Laurel Canyon Blvd.1.1 miles and culminate at the Ritchie Valens Recreation Center and Park, 10736 Laurel Canyon Blvd., Pacoima, CA (corner of Laurel Canyon Blvd. and Paxton St.). This is the largest Veterans Day event for vets in Los Angeles County. sfvveteransdayparade.com
SAN GABRIEL: Veterans Day Ceremony November 9, 2024, 10-11 a.m. at Plaza Park, 428 S. Mission Drive, San Gabriel,
CA. Brought to you by the City of San Gabriel and the San Gabriel Veterans Memorial Coalition. For additional information or questions call the Community Services Office at 626-308-2875 or email CommSrvInfo@sgch.org.
SAN JOSE: 106th Annual Veterans Day Parade November 11, 2024, 11 a.m. Opening ceremony begins at 11 a.m. at the reviewing stands in front of Plaza de Cesar Chavez. Parade begins at 12 p.m., traveling from intersection of Almaden Boulevard and Santa Clara Street; Proceeds east on Santa Clara Street; Turns right onto Market Street passing Plaza de Cesar Chavez; Ends at San Carlos Street. Silicon Valley Chapter (SVC) of Military Officers is an affiliate of the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) sjveteransparade.org
SANTA FE SPRINGS: Military Veterans Luncheon November 8, 2024, 11:30 a.m. Free event, register with City of Santa Fe Springs, santafesprings.org
SANTA MARIA: Freedom Monument Veterans Memorial Ceremony 23rd Anniversary November 11, 2024, 11 a.m. Pay tribute to 113 Santa Maria Valley Veterans who died in conflicts from World War I through the latest wars on terrorism. Free Breakfast 10-10:45 a.m. The Santa Maria Valley Chamber of Commerce and the City of Santa Maria welcome you to a special Veterans Day event at the Freedom Monument Veterans Memorial, Location: In front of the Abel Maldonado Community Youth Center, 600 S. McClelland, Santa Maria, CA. Free, santamaria.com
SHASTA LAKE: Shasta Lake Lions Veterans Day Parade November 9, 2024, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Shasta Lake Lions 31st Annual Veteran’s Day Parade, the second largest Veteran’s Day Parade in California, begins with a pancake breakfast at the fire hall (7am), followed by the parade down Shasta Dam Blvd (10am), and concludes with a luncheon at the American Legion Hall. Location: Highway 51 and Shasta Dam Boulevard, Shasta Lake CA. facebook.com/events/1692618844820365
SIMI VALLEY: Veterans Day at Ronald Reagan Presidential Library November 11, 2024, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Flyover by the Condor Squadron, Abbe Road A Cappella, Wind Ensemble 10:30 a.m.; Iwo Jima Flag Raising 10:50 a.m.; Program honoring all branches of our nation’s military, keynote speech by United States Marine Chief Warrant Officer-4 Randy Gaddo (Ret.) 11 a.m.; Reenactors from the Washington Artillery of New Orleans, Naval Base Ventura County Construction Battalion Vehicles on Display, and ‘For The Troops’ letters you can write 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Location: 40 Presidential Drive, Simi Valley, CA. Free admission to outdoor activities and ceremony (indoor museum requires ticket purchase). RSVP on website: bit.ly/4dha7t7
STANTON: Veterans Day Ceremony November 11, 2024, 9 a.m. at Stanton Civic Center. You are invited to attend the Veterans Day Ceremony in honor of the men and women in our community that have served or are serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. A light breakfast is served. Location: 7800 Katella Avenue, Stanton, CA. Pre-registration required: StantonCA.gov/VeteransDay
TEMPLE CITY: Veterans Day Celebration November 11, 2024, 10:30 a.m. @ Temple City Park Honor our local heroes with a celebration that includes the Posting of Colors, live entertainment, and possibly a vintage aircraft flyover. Location: 9701 Las Tunas Dr. Temple City, CA 91780, ci.temple-city.ca.us
TUSTIN: Veterans Day Celebration and Car Show November 9, 2024, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Veterans Sports Park. Location: 1645 Valencia Ave., Tustin, CA. Free, tustinca.org/1272/Veterans-Day-Celebration
VENTURA: Veterans Day Ceremony November 11, 2024, 11 a.m. at Ventura County Veterans Memorial. Distinguished speakers and a presentation honoring a local veteran from each military branch. Location: 800 South Victoria Avenue (Victoria Ave. & Telephone Rd.) Ventura, CA. Free, gcvf.org/veterans-day
VICTORVILLE: Veterans Day Parade and Ceremony, November 11, 2024, 9-11 a.m. at 7th and Tracy. Parade begins at 9 a.m. in Old Town Victorville. Veterans Day Ceremony immediately follows the parade at 7th Street and Forrest Avenue at approx. 9:30 a.m. Victorville, CA. Free. victorvilleca.gov
YORBA LINDA: Brick LayingVeterans Day Memorial November 11, 2024, 2 p.m. at Yorba Linda Veterans Memorial. Keynote speaker US Marine Corps Veteran Adam Sikes, Mayor Tara Campbell, Esperanza HS Army Junior ROTC presents the Colors, Los Angeles Police Emerald Society Pipes and Drums, concluding with traditional Gold Star Roll Call and Taps. The event is open to the public; a large tent set up to provide shade; bringing your lawn chairs. Location: 4756 Valley View Ave., Yorba Linda, CA. Free, yorbalindaveteransmemorial.com
Here are some other Veterans Day events and offers!
Dia de Los Muertos 2024 in Santa Ana promises an extraordinary weekend journey filled with rich cultural experiences—an immersive blend of art, music, food, and deep community connections. From the vibrant public festivals to the intimate beauty of family altars, each day offers a deeper appreciation of this cherished tradition that honors both life and death.
As you explore Santa Ana, you’ll witness a city that proudly celebrates its Latino heritage, weaving together past and present in a dynamic tapestry of remembrance, joy, and togetherness. Whether you’re drawn to the colorful altars, the lively performances, or the heartfelt community gatherings, Santa Ana’s Dia de Los Muertos is an experience you won’t want to miss.
📅 Date: Friday, November 1, 2024
🕒 Time: 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM
📍 Location: 816 E. Chestnut Ave.
Explore the Magic of the Altars with Santa Ana’s Roosevelt-Walker Community.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Santa Ana by engaging with the Roosevelt-Walker Community during their magical altar displays. Located near the intersection of E. Chestnut Ave. and S. Standard Ave., the Roosevelt-Walker Community Center serves as a hub for connection, culture, and recreation. Join this festive gathering celebrating local traditions for Día de Los Muertos 2024. This is a unique opportunity to engage directly with the people who call Santa Ana home.
📅 Date: Saturday, November 2, 2024 🕒 Time: 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM 📍 Location: 1702 Fairhaven Ave.
Visit Fairhaven Memorial Park for a peaceful day of reflection and community memorials.
For those looking for the most authentic and historic example of Dia de Los Muertos, join the Santa Ana community for family reflection day on Dia de los Muertos, November 2nd, by visiting Fairhaven Memorial Park (a historic cemetery where several notable individuals, including local celebrities, athletes, and influential figures, have been laid to rest) for a day dedicated to honoring the deceased. Participate in the community’s memorial, where families gather to remember and celebrate their loved ones. This day is about joy and remembrance, so bring flowers, photos, and offerings for the graves. Join in the celebrations, share stories, and embrace the vibrant energy of life. This historic cemetery becomes a serene space for families to gather and honor their loved ones with prayers, flowers, photos, and offerings. The tranquil atmosphere offers a time to reflect on the deeper themes of life and death that define Dia de Los Muertos and watch as families pay their respects with beautifully decorated graves and offerings for loved ones to cross over and spend the day with family.
📅 Date: Saturday, November 2, 2024
🕒 Time: 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM
📍 Location: Downtown Santa Ana, 4th Street between Ross and Birch
Noche de Altares (Night of the Altars), now in its 21st year, is the highlight of Santa Ana’s Día de Los Muertos celebrations and one of the most anticipated events of the season. Organized by El Centro Cultural de México, this vibrant event transforms the streets of Downtown Santa Ana into a stunning display of altars (ofrendas)—each one a unique tribute of love and remembrance for lost loved ones.
From noon until evening, the streets will be filled with an electric atmosphere of live music, traditional dance performances, community art installations, and dozens of intricately designed altars. Whether you’re creating an altar to honor someone special or simply enjoying the creativity of others, the air will be thick with emotion, laughter, and the tantalizing scents of delicious food.
Since 2002, Noche de Altares has invited families, artists, and local organizations to participate with beautifully crafted altars, art workshops, and live performances throughout the day. Street food vendors will offer traditional Mexican dishes such as pan de muerto (bread of the dead) and tamales, adding to the sensory richness of the celebration. This event is more than just a display—it’s a community-wide tribute that brings together people of all ages to celebrate life, memory, and the bonds that connect us to those who have passed.
📅 Date: Saturday, November 2, 2024
🕒 Time: 2:00 PM to 10:00 PM | Parade 5:00 PM
📍 Location: 120 W. 4th St.
Celebrate Día de los Muertos with El Poder de la Cultura Morelense as they bring the colorful tradition of the Chinelos de Morelos to Santa Ana. This exciting event, which runs from 2:00 PM to 10:00 PM, will feature a stunning parade of Chinelos, Catrinas, and the lively Band Carnaval at 5:00 PM, creating a festive atmosphere filled with music, dance, and culture.
The term “Chinelos” comes from the Nahuatl word “zineloquie,” meaning “disguised.” This traditional dance originated after the Spanish conquest as a way for indigenous people to mock the elaborate and formal clothing of European colonizers. However, the dance’s components can be traced back to ancient Aztec origins, making it a meaningful blend of pre-Hispanic and colonial history. The Chinelos are famous for their exaggerated costumes, featuring large hats, colorful robes, and masks, and their energetic, rhythmic dances that enliven any celebration.
With the additional presence of the iconic Catrinas—elegant skeletal figures symbolizing the blending of life and death—this event promises to be an immersive cultural experience that honors Mexican traditions and heritage.
📅 Date: Saturday, November 2, 2024 🕒 Time: 3:00 PM -10:00 PM 📍 Location: 4th Street & Between Main and French St:
At Viva La Vida experience a vibrant celebration of Life in the streets of Downtown Santa Ana
Viva La Vida is an extraordinary celebration that brings together the vibrant energy of contemporary Chicano culture and the cherished traditions of Día de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead). The streets of Downtown Santa Ana burst with life through captivating art installations created by local artists, turning the area into a colorful canvas of murals, sculptures, and interactive exhibits. Among the highlights are lowrider cars, their polished exteriors adorned with altars (called ofrendas)—carefully crafted displays that honor the memories of loved ones with photos, food, and personal mementos.
As evening falls, the figure of La Catrina—a traditional representation of death, dressed in elegant clothing and painted in skeletal form—graces the festival, reminding us to embrace life with laughter and joy, even in the presence of death. Viva La Vida beautifully captures the essence of the community as families and friends come together to celebrate and honor those who have passed. With faces painted and spirits high, attendees are encouraged to express themselves through dance and celebration, fully embracing the joyous spirit of life that defines this festival.
📅 Date: Sunday, November 3, 2024
🕒 Time: 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM
📍 Location: 2002 N. Main St.
Join the celebration with face painting, mariachi music, and a communal ofrenda (memorial altar).
On Sunday, November 3, 2024, head to the Bowers Museum, a cultural gem showcasing global art and history, for their Mexican Day of the Dead Festival. From 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM, enjoy live performances, art-making sessions, and face painting. Visitors are invited to bring a photo of a loved one to add to the ofrenda (memorial altar), honoring those who have passed.
This vibrant cultural event features face painting, mariachi music, folklórico dances, and a communal ofrenda where attendees can honor their loved ones by adding photos and mementos. You’ll also enjoy traditional foods like pan de muerto (bread of the dead) and tamales and take part in workshops like sugar skull decorating. The event offers an educational yet celebratory atmosphere, blending art, culture, and community, truly capturing the essence of Día de Los Muertos.
Author
Madeleine Thérèse Spencer is a resident of Santa Ana and a visionary leader dedicated to community development, placemaking, and the celebration of authentic cultural vibrancy in the community. As Co-Director of PlacemakingUS, a national network organization, she is dedicated to transforming the social life of public spaces and fostering inclusive, living, and thriving communities.
🍁🎃👻 Look no further if you’re planning a Halloween party or fall festival and in need of some hilarious Halloween games that are great for all ages?!
You want to know the best toddler beaches with no waves in OC? I’m going to provide you with my Top 4 plus two bonus beaches, but they come with a note of precaution.
Still water beaches, meaning no waves or surf, have a general propensity for water quality issues and they can also be good stingray habitat – at least along the warm sandy edges.
Check Heal the Bay Beach Report Card for water quality. Make sure a lifeguard is watching and ask for his/her advice about local conditions on the day you visit.
Any body of water is a dangerous place for a toddler – you should be within arm’s length of any child under 4 years old when they are wading or swimming – and this especially applies at the beach!
As long as you move forward with those precautions in mind, then you should have a grand time at these toddler beaches!
Corona Del Mar — inside the harbor (Pirate’s Cove)
Scramble down the path that leads over the rocks and take the stairs to this mini beach (NOT stroller-friendly). Check the tides before you go!
You’ll have to find parking on the street above the beach or pay for parking in the adjacent lot. Read my post about Corona Del Mar Beach.
It’s also a fun place to watch boats enter and leave Newport Harbor in the summer. The Wedge is just across the harbor and from the bluff you can see the surf pound the breakwater.
Baby Beach in Dana Point
You can park close and you don’t have to pay for parking, but this one can get incredibly busy on weekends and holidays. So arrive early!
It’s a launch point for paddleboards and kayaks, as well. Swimmers are roped off from boat traffic by a buoy line so you’ll have some room for shallow water swimming. Read my post about Baby Beach in Dana Point Harbor.
Weekday trips in the off-season are probably the least crowded. August and September can still be very warm in California.
Also, be aware that it can be 90 degrees at your house inland and foggy at the beach. Make sure you come prepared!
Some families prefer the grassy area behind the beach for relatively sand-free picnics.
Newport Dunes in Newport Beach
Parking inside Newport Dunes will cost you, but there is a wide bay for swimming and you can pay extra for access to a waterpark with float toys in the summer for playing in the water.
North Star Beach in Newport Beach’s Back Bay is in the same general geographic area as Newport Dunes (above), except the opposite side of the bay and a little further inland. So much of the area is protected as a nature preserve.
This City of Newport Beach spot is designed for launching recreational watercraft like kayaks, outriggers, canoes, and paddleboards. The beach area is VERY small, but the water play is fun and airplanes fly over from Orange County Airport. This is NOT a swimming beach, but more of a wading spot for toddlers.
There are quite a few things to be aware of at North Star Beach and also a lot of links to share about it, so I ended up writing a full post on it.
I have had one parent complain of rocks that hurt her child’s foot, but otherwise no reported issues over the years this one has been included on the list. Could be seasonal since beaches tend to have the sand wash in and out over the year (summer = more sand, less rocks)?
Mother’s Beach in Huntington Harbour
A favorite for the Huntington Beach area is Mother’s Beach inside Huntington Harbour (thanks to reader, Meg, for pointing that one out)!
This one has an awesome pirate-themed playground and it’s somewhat off the beaten path (except on popular weekends and holidays when it can be really busy)!
So that’s it! If you can think of any other toddlerbeaches in OC with NO waves, please let me know! I do know of another in Huntington Harbour, but the parking is pretty impossible so I’ve not included it here.
If you want to know about the 30+ Toddler-Friendly Parks in Orange County, then make sure you go read that blog post which highlights playgrounds with baby swings and restrooms – and other features that make them work for younger kids!
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These meaningful gifts for mom may not cost money, but will show you care all the same.
While it’s important to remind your mom how much you love and appreciate her on Mother’s Day, that reminder doesn’t have to break the bank. There are plenty of affordable Mother’s Day gifts under $25 that look anything but cheap and, if you’re crafty, you can always make a DIY Mother’s Day present for that special lady in your life. However, if the ongoing Covid-19 crisis has put you on a very tight budget, then these free and frugal Mother’s Day gifts can be used to tell your mom, grandma, stepmom, mother-in-law, or any other maternal figure you know and love just how much you care. The best part? They won’t require you to spend more than a few bucks (or no money at all!).
Saying “I love you” on Mother’s Day doesn’t have to entail an actual gift. You can show your appreciation by making a special Mother’s Day brunch, helping her around the house, or planning a Mother’s Day activity for the two of you to enjoy. A thoughtful Mother’s Day card is also a great way to express your gratitude. But if you’re looking for a small memento to give your mom on May 9, and after a particularly difficult year, then these free (or basically free) gifts are the way to go.
Your love doesn’t have to cost a thing, and these free Mother’s Day gifts prove it. The best part: These gift ideas all make perfect last-minute Mother’s Day presents if you accidentally procrastinated this year.
Courtesy of Skip to My Lou
Mother’s Day Coupon Book
Give your mom the freedom to choose how she spends her special day with a free download of an adorable book of coupons.
Forget expensive store-bought cards. There are plenty of free printable Mother’s Day cards available, which you can fill with your own heartfelt message.
Make a mini succulent even sweeter with a printable flag label, which reads, “Mom, thank you for helping me grow.” You can also decorate a mason jar plant holder if you’re feeling creative.
Nothing says Mother’s Day like breakfast in bed — and you can really make your mom’s day by having her fill out her own free printable “room service” door hanger.
Though this custom canvas requires a bit more work than simply printing and framing, you can easily create a professional-looking canvas with a few tools and a printable template.
Want to remind your mom of all her best qualities? Then fill a mason jar with slips of paper containing sweet compliments, either by themselves or affixed to small pieces of candy.
Give your mom her own custom “super mom” notepad for jotting down reminders (and you can stick them inside a cheap pencil box to make this gift extra thoughtful).
Every mom could use an emergency stash of candy, and with the help of an inexpensive plastic organizer and some treats, you can make a customized candy box.
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