Pumpkin patches bring a touch of farm life to Southern California cities, but many have more to offer than supplying the raw materials for Halloween jack-o-lanterns.
They have carnival rides, activities for children, petting zoos and often live entertainment.
Here are some of the places at are opening between now and early October.
Los Angeles County
Cal Poly Pumpkin Festival: Oct. 1-30. Pumpkin patch with photo stops, hayrides, goat petting, corn maze, fair food and live entertainment. Tickets are only available online for reserved time slots. $6-$10 for general admission; $5-7 for ages 3-12. There will be a preview Sept. 30 with food and drink samples and entertainment; tickets are $70. AGRIscapes Center, Cal Poly Pomona, 4102 S. University Drive, Pomona. cpp.edu/~pumpkinfestival
Carved at Descanso Gardens: Oct. 7-31. Hundreds of carved pumpkins on display, hay maze, holiday foods. $20-$26 for members, $32-$38 for non-members.1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge. 818-949-4200, descansogardens.org
Forneris Farms: Oct. 8-31. Pumpkin patch and corn maze. Entry is $5, cash only, and there are additional charges for other attractions. 15200 Rinaldi St., Los Angeles. fornerisfarms.com
La Verne Heritage Foundation: Oct. 7-30. Pumpkin patch, tractor-pulled rides, petting farm. Heritage Park, 5001 Via De Mansions, La Verne. laverneheritage.org
Mr. Bones Pumpkin Patch: Oct. 7-30. Pumpkin and teepee villages, bounce houses, straw maze, petting zoo, giant rocking horses. Admission $10-$30 depending on date and time, extra charges for activities. 10100 Jefferson Blvd., Culver City. 310-276-9827, mrbonespumpkinpatch.com
Mr. Jack O’ Lanterns Pumpkin Patch, Farmers Market: Oct. 15-31. Games, activities and animals. Free admission, extra charge for activities. 6333 W 3rd St., Los Angeles. mrjackolanternspumpkins.com
Mr. Jack O’ Lanterns Pumpkin Patch, Torrance: Oct. 1-31. Games, activities and animals. Free admission, extra charge for activities. 17520 Prairie Ave., Torrance. mrjackolanternspumpkins.com
Mr. Jack O’ Lanterns Pumpkin Patch, West Los Angeles: Oct. 1-31. Games, activities and animals. Free admission, extra charge for activities. 11852 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles. mrjackolanternspumpkins.com
Pa’s Pumpkin Patch: Sept. 30-Oct. 31. Petting zoo, pony rides, corn stalks and fair foods. Advance reservations are required and can be booked online. 6701 E. Pacific Coast Highway, Long Beach. paspumpkinpatch.com
Shawn’s Pumpkin Patch: Oct. 1-31. Pumpkin bounce house, train rides, petting zoo, carnival games. No entrance fee, but activities cost $3.50-$7. 11650 Santa Monica Blvd. Los Angeles. shawnspumpkinpatch.com
Toluca Lake Pumpkin Patch: Sept. 26-Oct. 31. Petting zoo and haunted maze. $10 for admission to both. 10601 Riverside Drive, North Hollywood. 818-505-8039
Orange County
Hana Field Pumpkin Patch: Oct. 1-29. U-pick pumpkins and sunflowers, corn maze and barnyard. $10 admission, $15 for flower-picking, activities extra. 427 Anton Blvd, Costa Mesa. 949-653-2100.
Irvine Park Railroad: Sept. 17-Oct. 31 Free haunted house, hay maze, hay pyramid, picture stands. Other activities cost extra, including train and hay rides, bounce houses, face painting and panning for gold. Great Pumpkin Weigh-off, Saturday, Sept. 24. Free admission, but parking is $3-$7. Irvine Regional Park, 1 Irvine Park Road, Orange. 714-997-3968, irvineparkrailroad.com
Pick of the Patch Pumpkins: Sept. 17-Oct. 31. Giant slides and inflatables. Admission is free; wristbands for inflatables cost $17-$30. 101 W. Avenida Vista Hermosa, San Clemente. abctreefarms.net
Pumpkin City, Anaheim: Sept. 30-Oct. 31. Carnival rides, games, petting zoo, entertainment. 2180 E. Lincoln Ave., Anaheim. pumpkincity.com
Pumpkin City, Laguna Hills: Sept. 30-Oct. 31. Carnival rides, games, petting zoo, entertainment, Oktoberfest beer garden. Laguna Hills Mall, 24203 Avenida de la Carlota, Laguna Hills. pumpkincity.com
Tanaka Farms: Open now through Oct. 31. U-pick pumpkins, wagon rides, arts and crafts. $10 general admission; extra for activities. Parking passes are required, fee is $10 on weekends. 5380 University Drive, Irvine. 949-653-2100.
Zoomars at River Street Ranch: Saturday, Sept. 24-Oct. 31. Petting zoo with goats, sheep and guinea pigs, pony, train and mini-tractor rides. Admission is $15, $12 for children12 years and younger, 31791 Los Rios St., San Juan Capistrano. 949-831-6550, riverstreetranch.com
Riverside County
Big Horse Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch: Oct. 1-30. Giant maze at Big Horse Feed and Mercantile. Food vendors and beer garden on weekends. 33320 Temecula Parkway, Temecula. $15 admission, $10 parking on weekends. 951-389-4621, bighorsecornmaze.com
Hunter’s Pumpkin Patch: Open now through Oct. 30. Carnival games, rides, barrel train, food. 12125 Day St., Building Q, Moreno Valley. 951-440-2027, hunterspumpkinpatch.com
Peltzer Pumpkin Farm: Saturday, Sept. 24-Oct. 31. Petting zoo, games, mining, face painting, rides. $2 admission on weekdays, $3 on weekends, extra for attractions. Pumpkin painting classes for $20 Tuesdays and Thursdays in October. 39925 Calle Contento, Temecula. peltzerfarms.com
Pick of the Patch Pumpkins: Saturday, Sept. 24-Oct 31. Giant slides and inflatables. Admission is free; wristbands for inflatables cost $17-$30. 18614 Dexter Ave., Lake Elsinore. abctreefarms.net
Pumpkin Factory: Oct. 1-31. Rides, bounce houses, petting zoo. 1545 Circle City Drive, Corona. thepumpkinfactory.com
San Bernardino County
Frosty’s Forest: Sept. 30-Oct. 30. “Hocus Pocus”-themed corn maze, sunflower labyrinth, petting zoo, bounce houses, carnival games. $5-$10 admission. A scary corn maze called Haunted Harvest is on the property with $30 separate admission.14861 Ramona Ave., Chino. frostysforest.com, thehauntedharvest.com
Greenspot Farms: Opens Oct. 1. Rides, farm animals, duck races, crafts and hay maze. Free admission. Scary nighttime attractions will be offered Oct. 16-31, including Haunted Hayride and Haunted Trail. Tickets are $15-$30. 10133 Ward Way, Mentone. 909-794-7653, greenspotfarms.com
Live Oak Canyon Pumpkin Farm: Open now through Oct. 31. U-pick pumpkins, more than 50 attractions including corn maze, petting zoo and rides. Live entertainment in October. $10-$25 admission for adults, $5-$20 for children; extra charge for some attractions. Live Oak Canyon Road at the 10 Freeway, Yucaipa. liveoakcanyon.com
SkyPark at Santa’s Village: Oct. 8-30. Pumpkin patch, activities, live entertainment and trick-or-treating on weekends. $59 for adults, $49 for children. 28950 Highway 18, Skyforest. skyparksantasvillage.com
Feel that nip in the early-morning air? That’s right, fall is delivering cooler temperatures and shorter daylight hours, which signals California’s broadleaf trees to get their colors on. Grab a thermos of steaming, pumpkin-spiced something and hit the road—maybe to a California State Park—to see oaks, aspens, dogwoods, and willows cloaked in their candy-colored coats.
When’s the best time of year to witness this autumnal splendor? That depends on many factors: the type of tree, the region, and the elevation, to name a few. But foliage report websites such as California Fall Color and Mono County’s Fall Color Report can provide real-time conditions. Typical foliage seasons are provided below, but keep in mind that as with any general guideline, it could change—in this case, due to a single storm or cold spell. Check local websites or other resources (if you are visiting a state or national park, a call to one of their ranger stations might provide some insight). For optimal leaf-peeping without the weekend crowds, plan a midweek trip to these autumn hotspots, listed south to north:
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Julian, San Diego County
In Julian, autumn is the grandstand season, both for apple-pie eating and leaf-peeping. Sample the town’s homemade apple confections, then watch black oaks do their color-changing trick at Lake Cuyamaca in Cuyamaca Rancho State Park. A scenic 45-minute drive leads to Palomar Mountain State Park, where you can put some miles on your feet while you admire bracken ferns and leafy oaks on the Thunder Ridge and Chimney Flat Loop. Or hike the Five Oaks Trail at Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve, home to some of the oldest and largest black oaks in San Diego County. Typical peak season: early to mid-November.
Temecula Valley and Murrieta, Riverside County
In Southern California’s wine country, colorful leaves cling to gnarled grapevines after the harvest, making autumn’s magic last well into November. Savor vintages and vineyards decked out in fall colors as you drive past 19 wineries on Rancho California Road plus 10 more on De Portola Road. In neighboring Murrieta, pedal your mountain bike or hike through Cole Canyon‘s oak woodlands and Sylvan Meadows’ bunchgrass prairie. At the end of the day, nab a patio seat for fall-themed dining in Old Town Temecula.Typical peak season: late November to early December
Oak Glen, San Bernardino County
At this rural enclave in the San Bernardino Mountain foothills, autumn stakes its claim in the golden oaks punctuating the hillsides and orange pumpkins dotting Riley’s Farm. At the Wildlands Conservancy’s Oak Glen Preserve, a 2.4-mile loop leads from park headquarters downhill through the apple orchards of century-old Los Rios Rancho, Southern California’s largest apple farm. Typical peak season: mid-October to early November
Santa Maria Valley, Santa Barbara County
Southern Santa Barbara County is known for palm trees and sandy beaches, but northern Santa Barbara—aka the Santa Maria Valley—is known for tasty Pinot Noir, Syrah, and Chardonnay. Drive the 30-mile Foxen Canyon Wine Trail to see pastoral vineyards showing off their autumn regalia. Hop on your bike and ride through 14 miles of forested canyon on Tepusquet Road, a one-lane byway near Byron Winery. Or drive to Guadalupe’s Oso Flaco Lake to see golden-hued arroyo willows and walk its 1.5-mile boardwalk trail above the tranquil lake (don’t forget binoculars for bird-watching). Typical peak season: as early as August, through mid-October
NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
Bishop to Bridgeport, Inyo and Mono Counties
Expert leaf-peepers never miss a road trip on US 395 to see the Eastern Sierra’s blue-ribbon fall foliage. Catch the aspen show between Bishop and Bridgeport by side-tripping west on major roads heading into the mountains: Highway 168 from Bishop to Sabrina and South Lakes, the June Lake Loop (Highway 158) past Silver and Grant lakes, and Lundy Lake Road seven miles north of Lee Vining. Or keep north on US 395 to see quaking aspen stands glow like stained-glass windows at Conway Summit, then score even more aspen eye-candy by driving Bridgeport’s Twin Lakes Road west to Twin Lakes. The Mono County Fall Color Report offers weekly updates on where the fall colors are looking their best. Typical peak season: mid-September through October
Sonora to Sonora Pass, Tuolumne County
Every autumn, Highway 108‘s aspen groves put on a dazzling color show. Start your trip in Sonora with a hike on Dragoon Gulch Trail, taking in views of Gold Country’s colorful hills. Then head east on Highway 108, cruising up the grade past Pinecrest Lake. Pause at Donnell Vista to admire volcanic ridges gussied up in fiery yellows and oranges, then pop in to Kennedy Meadows Resort to say hello to the horses or fill up with a hearty burger before ascending another 10 miles to Sonora Pass. As you descend down the east side, the aspen show is nearly nonstop. Typical peak season: early September through October
Hope Valley, Alpine County
South of Lake Tahoe, Hope Valley’s dense aspen groves offer nearly traffic-stopping displays of glowing golds, opulent oranges, and brilliant reds. Start your drive from the west on Highway 88 in Jackson or Pioneer, then wind your way uphill until you top out at Carson Pass. A sharp descent plunges you into Hope Valley, where you’ll pull over every quarter-mile to snap another photo. Aspens border both sides of the highway, but especially showy stands are found near Red Lake and Wylder Hope Valley Resort. For even more aspen glory, take a side trip north on Highway 89 over Luther Pass into Meyers and South Lake Tahoe. Gorgeous groves show off their colors all the way north to Emerald Bay. Typical peak season: mid-October to mid-November
Nevada City and Grass Valley, Nevada County
Walk down Nevada Street in Nevada City to see century-old sugar maples and American sweetgums (liquidambars) turning a brilliant stoplight red. Planted by Gold Rush miners in the mid-1800s, these fall foliage champions pair well with the Victorian buildings lining the town’s historic district. Explore downtown, then walk the level Cascade Canal Trail, shaded by red-hued dogwoods and deep green Douglas firs. In nearby Grass Valley, stroll around Empire Mine State Historic Park, where the colorful leaves of ornamental sweetgums, silver maples, and sugar maples accent the subtler gold of native black oaks. Walk any of the trails that start at the Gold Hill Drive Trailhead to see the trees sporting their fall colors. Typical peak season: mid-October to mid-November
Pumpkin patches bring a touch of farm life to Southern California cities, but many have more to offer than supplying the raw materials for Halloween jack-o-lanterns.
They have carnival rides, activities for children, petting zoos and often live entertainment.
Here are some of the places at are opening between now and early October.
Los Angeles County
Cal Poly Pumpkin Festival: Oct. 1-30. Pumpkin patch with photo stops, hayrides, goat petting, corn maze, fair food and live entertainment. Tickets are only available online for reserved time slots. $6-$10 for general admission; $5-7 for ages 3-12. There will be a preview Sept. 30 with food and drink samples and entertainment; tickets are $70. AGRIscapes Center, Cal Poly Pomona, 4102 S. University Drive, Pomona. cpp.edu/~pumpkinfestival
Carved at Descanso Gardens: Oct. 7-31. Hundreds of carved pumpkins on display, hay maze, holiday foods. $20-$26 for members, $32-$38 for non-members.1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge. 818-949-4200, descansogardens.org
Forneris Farms: Oct. 8-31. Pumpkin patch and corn maze. Entry is $5, cash only, and there are additional charges for other attractions. 15200 Rinaldi St., Los Angeles. fornerisfarms.com
La Verne Heritage Foundation: Oct. 7-30. Pumpkin patch, tractor-pulled rides, petting farm. Heritage Park, 5001 Via De Mansions, La Verne. laverneheritage.org
Mr. Bones Pumpkin Patch: Oct. 7-30. Pumpkin and teepee villages, bounce houses, straw maze, petting zoo, giant rocking horses. Admission $10-$30 depending on date and time, extra charges for activities. 10100 Jefferson Blvd., Culver City. 310-276-9827, mrbonespumpkinpatch.com
Mr. Jack O’ Lanterns Pumpkin Patch, Farmers Market: Oct. 15-31. Games, activities and animals. Free admission, extra charge for activities. 6333 W 3rd St., Los Angeles. mrjackolanternspumpkins.com
Mr. Jack O’ Lanterns Pumpkin Patch, Torrance: Oct. 1-31. Games, activities and animals. Free admission, extra charge for activities. 17520 Prairie Ave., Torrance. mrjackolanternspumpkins.com
Mr. Jack O’ Lanterns Pumpkin Patch, West Los Angeles: Oct. 1-31. Games, activities and animals. Free admission, extra charge for activities. 11852 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles. mrjackolanternspumpkins.com
Pa’s Pumpkin Patch: Sept. 30-Oct. 31. Petting zoo, pony rides, corn stalks and fair foods. Advance reservations are required and can be booked online. 6701 E. Pacific Coast Highway, Long Beach. paspumpkinpatch.com
Shawn’s Pumpkin Patch: Oct. 1-31. Pumpkin bounce house, train rides, petting zoo, carnival games. No entrance fee, but activities cost $3.50-$7. 11650 Santa Monica Blvd. Los Angeles. shawnspumpkinpatch.com
Toluca Lake Pumpkin Patch: Sept. 26-Oct. 31. Petting zoo and haunted maze. $10 for admission to both. 10601 Riverside Drive, North Hollywood. 818-505-8039
Orange County
Hana Field Pumpkin Patch: Oct. 1-29. U-pick pumpkins and sunflowers, corn maze and barnyard. $10 admission, $15 for flower-picking, activities extra. 427 Anton Blvd, Costa Mesa. 949-653-2100.
Irvine Park Railroad: Sept. 17-Oct. 31 Free haunted house, hay maze, hay pyramid, picture stands. Other activities cost extra, including train and hay rides, bounce houses, face painting and panning for gold. Great Pumpkin Weigh-off, Saturday, Sept. 24. Free admission, but parking is $3-$7. Irvine Regional Park, 1 Irvine Park Road, Orange. 714-997-3968, irvineparkrailroad.com
Pick of the Patch Pumpkins: Sept. 17-Oct. 31. Giant slides and inflatables. Admission is free; wristbands for inflatables cost $17-$30. 101 W. Avenida Vista Hermosa, San Clemente. abctreefarms.net
Pumpkin City, Anaheim: Sept. 30-Oct. 31. Carnival rides, games, petting zoo, entertainment. 2180 E. Lincoln Ave., Anaheim. pumpkincity.com
Pumpkin City, Laguna Hills: Sept. 30-Oct. 31. Carnival rides, games, petting zoo, entertainment, Oktoberfest beer garden. Laguna Hills Mall, 24203 Avenida de la Carlota, Laguna Hills. pumpkincity.com
Tanaka Farms: Open now through Oct. 31. U-pick pumpkins, wagon rides, arts and crafts. $10 general admission; extra for activities. Parking passes are required, fee is $10 on weekends. 5380 University Drive, Irvine. 949-653-2100.
Zoomars at River Street Ranch: Saturday, Sept. 24-Oct. 31. Petting zoo with goats, sheep and guinea pigs, pony, train and mini-tractor rides. Admission is $15, $12 for children12 years and younger, 31791 Los Rios St., San Juan Capistrano. 949-831-6550, riverstreetranch.com
Riverside County
Big Horse Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch: Oct. 1-30. Giant maze at Big Horse Feed and Mercantile. Food vendors and beer garden on weekends. 33320 Temecula Parkway, Temecula. $15 admission, $10 parking on weekends. 951-389-4621, bighorsecornmaze.com
Hunter’s Pumpkin Patch: Open now through Oct. 30. Carnival games, rides, barrel train, food. 12125 Day St., Building Q, Moreno Valley. 951-440-2027, hunterspumpkinpatch.com
Peltzer Pumpkin Farm: Saturday, Sept. 24-Oct. 31. Petting zoo, games, mining, face painting, rides. $2 admission on weekdays, $3 on weekends, extra for attractions. Pumpkin painting classes for $20 Tuesdays and Thursdays in October. 39925 Calle Contento, Temecula. peltzerfarms.com
Pick of the Patch Pumpkins: Saturday, Sept. 24-Oct 31. Giant slides and inflatables. Admission is free; wristbands for inflatables cost $17-$30. 18614 Dexter Ave., Lake Elsinore. abctreefarms.net
Pumpkin Factory: Oct. 1-31. Rides, bounce houses, petting zoo. 1545 Circle City Drive, Corona. thepumpkinfactory.com
San Bernardino County
Frosty’s Forest: Sept. 30-Oct. 30. “Hocus Pocus”-themed corn maze, sunflower labyrinth, petting zoo, bounce houses, carnival games. $5-$10 admission. A scary corn maze called Haunted Harvest is on the property with $30 separate admission.14861 Ramona Ave., Chino. frostysforest.com, thehauntedharvest.com
Greenspot Farms: Opens Oct. 1. Rides, farm animals, duck races, crafts and hay maze. Free admission. Scary nighttime attractions will be offered Oct. 16-31, including Haunted Hayride and Haunted Trail. Tickets are $15-$30. 10133 Ward Way, Mentone. 909-794-7653, greenspotfarms.com
Live Oak Canyon Pumpkin Farm: Open now through Oct. 31. U-pick pumpkins, more than 50 attractions including corn maze, petting zoo and rides. Live entertainment in October. $10-$25 admission for adults, $5-$20 for children; extra charge for some attractions. Live Oak Canyon Road at the 10 Freeway, Yucaipa. liveoakcanyon.com
SkyPark at Santa’s Village: Oct. 8-30. Pumpkin patch, activities, live entertainment and trick-or-treating on weekends. $59 for adults, $49 for children. 28950 Highway 18, Skyforest. skyparksantasvillage.com
As we usher off a very hot (and fun) summer, it’s time to welcome the upcoming fall and the colder, wetter weather that comes with it. This is the perfect time to check off a few fall home maintenance items around your house. Then you can sit back and rest assured that your home is in good shape. Below is a quick checklist of home maintenance items you should be able to tackle in a few hours on a weekend. It’s time well spent that will give you peace of mind and prevent unwanted expensive surprises.
ROOFS & GUTTERS
1. Check for damaged, loose, or missing shingles. If you’re not comfortable climbing on ladders, this may be a job for a roofer or a local handyman.
2. Check for leaking, rusted, misaligned or damaged gutters & downspouts and clean them. Be sure the downspouts direct water at least 3 feet away from your foundation.
3. Cut back tree limbs growing on or over the roof or near any windows or power lines. If the trees are too close to the power lines, it’s best to let a professional tree trimmer handle it.
4. Check flashings around vent pipes, skylights, and chimneys. This is by far the biggest source of roof leaks. Roofing tar and a spatula are all you need.
EXTERIOR WALLS
1. Check painted wood surfaces for flaking paint. Patch and paint as needed.
2. Cut back and trim shrubbery against sidewalls. This tends to deteriorate wall surfaces and is a haven for rodents.
3. Maintain grading (soil) sloped away from foundation walls. This is a potentially significant problem during heavy rain.
DOORS & WINDOWS
1. Check the caulking around doors, windows and window sills. This is the #1 source of rot damage. Re-caulk as needed.
2. Check weather-stripping around doors and windows. This is a potential area of heat loss.
INTERIOR
1. Close crawl space vents in fall/winter and open in summer. This is a huge energy saver in cold weather.
2. Check to make sure that the damper of your fireplace seals tightly. Air loss through chimneys is very common. Don’t pay to heat the outdoors.
3. Check the basement for dampness and leakage after wet weather. There are many reasons for moisture penetration into basements, such as hydrostatic pressure behind retaining walls and improper exterior site drainage. The sooner you spot it, the less expensive it will be to fix it.
4. Replace batteries in carbon monoxide detectors and smoke alarms. Change old-style smoke detector batteries, or better yet, install newer style detectors with 10-year batteries.
HEATING & COOLING
1. Change or clean furnace filters, air conditioner filters, electronic filters as needed.
2. Clean around cooling equipment, removing leaves, dust, overgrown shrubbery, debris. The cleaner your system is, the more efficient it will operate.
3. Cover or remove the AC window unit for the fall/winter. Again, this is a potential source of air loss and moisture penetration.
PLUMBING
1. Exposed exterior water lines and drains should be wrapped with insulation. Water lines under the house, in the crawlspace, should also be insulated for energy efficiency.
ELECTRICAL
1. Check exterior ground fault interrupters (GFCI) for proper operation. You can buy an inexpensive GFCI tester at any hardware store.
2. Check any exposed wiring and cables for wear or damage. Replace as needed.
KNOW THE LOCATION OF IN CASE OF EMERGENCY (Year-round)
1. The main water shut-off valve. This should be opened and closed at least once a year to assure proper functioning.
2. The main electrical disconnect or breaker, in case you need to shut it off or reset a tripped breaker.
3. The electrical panel box for breakers or fuses.
4. All fire extinguishers in the house. You do have extinguishers, right?
Believe me, this may seem like a long list, but you can easily make this into a family affair and have the kids or your spouse handle some items while you handle the others. After inspecting over 8,000 homes, I can’t emphasize how much regular maintenance can prevent costly repairs or replacements in the future. Good luck and as always, please don’t hesitate to call or email me with any questions.
Tony Escamilla is the founder of Villa Home Inspections. He founded Villa Home Inspections 23 years ago in 1998. With a background as a general contractor since 2000, Tony has been in the construction industry for many more years. He has personally performed over 8,000 inspections throughout Los Angeles, Orange, and San Bernardino Counties.
Pull your calendars out and plan a picnic, get your lawn chairs ready, and get ready to head to your local park. Plus, guess what? Almost all the Orange County summer concerts are FREE!
Here are two sites that have compiled a list of all the summer concerts by respective Cities. They provide links to the actual event and/or City websites that provide complete info.
The Fourth of July is the biggest celebration of the year. Family and friends gather to celebrate Independence Day clad in red, white, and blue clothes and patriotic hats and glasses. It’s time for parades, barbecues, and fireworks. Here’s a list of events to help you find a 4th of July celebration near you.
*Some 2022 Events have been cancelled due to COVID-19. Please check the websites for details.
Safe and Sane Fireworks are allowed in certain Orange County cities with restrictions. The fireworks must be approved by the CA State Fire Marshal and each city has designated times in which fireworks can be discharged. The following cities allow Safe and Sane fireworks on July 4th on private property and residential streets only:
Anaheim: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm (No fireworks in East Anaheim)
Buena Park: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm
Costa Mesa: July 2 – July 4 until 10:00 pm
Fullerton: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm
Garden Grove: 10:00 am-10:00 pm
Huntington Beach: Noon-10:00 pm
Santa Ana: July 1st Noon-10:00 pm; July 2nd & 3rd 10:00 am – 10:00 pm; July 4th 10:00 am – 9:00 pm
Kick off your Independence Day with the community parade at 9AM, followed by a free community festival with games, a rock wall, DJ and Gamemaster, giant slide, and face painting.
AVCA July 4th Celebration Where: Grand Park/Town Center Amphitheater – 6101 City Lights Drive When: 6PM – 9:30PM
Activities: Experience the annual 4th of July Celebration and fireworks. Features face painting, community booths, create-a-card, and carnival games.
Activities: Start the day off at Canyon High School with the Firecracker Run 5K/10K (7AM) followed by the Yankee Doodle Dog Show (9:00AM) and the Fourth of July Parade (1:00PM). Move over to Peralta Park for food vendors and live entertainment. Fireworks begin at 9:00 p.m.
Activities: Pancake breakfast by the Kiwanis Club begins at 7 a.m. followed by a morning service. The Country Fair begins at 9:00 a.m. and includes a Kiddie Parade, Bow Wow contest, Teen Fun area, craft area, food, rides, live entertainment, games, and exhibits. $3 swimming at the Plunge opens at 11 a.m.
The free community celebration invites you to bring your family and friends for a memorable day with activities, live music, contests, and a fireworks show. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets and set up on the lawn for an evening of fun. Food and drinks will be available for purchase but you are welcome to bring your own picnic. The event is free, parking is $10. Fireworks start at 9:30PM.
Activities: Come watch the Pacific Symphony July 4th Spectacular Hotel California: A Salute to the Eagles. The Pacific Amphitheater event will include patriotic tunes and a fireworks display.
CYPRESS
Salute To America Where: Cypress College – 9200 Valley View Street When: Friday, July 1, 2022 5:30PM – 9:30PM
Activities: Enjoy this patriotic celebration with live music by the Smokin’ Cobras, food trucks, vendors, entertainment, and a fireworks display at 9PM.
DANA POINT
There will be a flyover at 5:55 to 6PM on the 4th of July. The Condor Squadron includes WWII North American AT-6 airplanes.
Activities: Family activities, rides for kids, food vendors, live music and more. Fireworks begin at 9:00.
HUNTINGTON BEACH
4th of July Celebration Where: Huntington Beach Neighborhoods and Downtown When: July 4th All Day
Activities: The biggest 4th of July Parade in Orange County has been modified again for 2022. There will be a parade caravan traveling through Huntington Beach neighborhoods on the morning of the 4th of July. The parade route will be announced at a later date. There is also a city-wide decorating contest that residents and businesses are invited to participate. For 2022, a Pier Plaza Festival is planned with vendors, a Ferris wheel, and a 12,000 square foot beer and wine garden. The Surf City 5K run will feature staggered start times on a course along Goldenwest and into Central Park. Finally, fireworks over the ocean have been tentatively approved. Stay tuned for more details.
July 4th Celebration Where: Founders Park – 28275 Avendale Blvd., Ladera Ranch When: July 4, 2022 – 3PM – 9:30PM
Activities: Games and activities will include a bungee, giant slides, the Wizzer, rock wall, Orbitron, zip line, race game trailer, face painting, artists, and carnival games. Fireworks at 9PM.
Schedule of Events
7:00 a.m. – 10K Freedom Run
7:45 – 11:30 a.m. – Pancake Breakfast
8:30 a.m. – 5K Freedom Run
9:30 a.m. – 1K Kids’ Firecracker Dash
10:30 a.m. – Community Parade
3:00 – 8:00 p.m. – Games & Activities
3:00 – 9:00 p.m. – Food Trucks
5:00 – 8:00 p.m. – Teen Zone
6:00 – 9:00 p.m. – Concert (Undercover – Top 40)
Dark – Fireworks
Activities: Fireworks show. This is a popular event. Come early to spend a day at the beach before the fireworks.
LAGUNA HILLS
Fourth of July Celebration Where: Laguna Hills Community Center & Sports Complex When: Cancelled
Activities: Carnival rides, games, live music, patriotic crafts, face painting, food and drinks available for purchase. No seating available, bring lawn chairs. Fireworks at 9:00 p.m.
July 4th – 5K & Kids run at Crown Valley Park (8AM), Pancake Breakfast (7:30AM – 10:30AM), Free Lap Swim & Pool Party at Laguna Niguel Aquatics Center, Patriotic Flyover (5:30PM), Concert At Crown Valley Park (6PM-8PM), an Fireworks display.
Activities: 4th of July Parade – “The Parade Is Back In Town” Parking is at El Toro High Schools back parking lot, and on Lake Forest Drive and Serrano Road. The Kiwanis will serve a pancake breakfast at 7AM in front of the high school, and the El Toro Chargers 5K run/walk begins at 7:30AM.
LA HABRA
4th of July Celebration Where: La Bonita Park: 1440 W. Whittier Blvd. When: July 4, 2022, 4:00 – 10:00PM
Activities: Fireworks show, flyover, live music by Pop Vinyl, kid’s activity booths, food vendors and general vendors. Fireworks begin at 9:00 p.m. Presale cost (June 6-30) is $5 for 13 and up, $3 for kids 3-12 years old. July 1 – 4 cost is $7 for 13 and up, $5 for ages 3-12. Limited capacity – wristbands required.
Activities: Gates open at 4:00 p.m. Fireworks begin at 9:00 p.m. Bring chairs and blankets and claim your spot to enjoy the show. There will be vendors, food, entertainment, and a family fun area. Entry will be through the Lexington or Orangewood gates.
MISSION VIEJO
July 4th Street Faire Where: Olympiad between Marguerite and Melinda When: July 4, 2022
Activities: The street faire begins at Noon and includes food, live entertainment, games, vendor booths, and family fun. Plus, fireworks will begin at 9:00 p.m.
NEWPORT BEACH
July 4 Fireworks Cruises With Davey’s Locker Balboa Peninsula, Newport Harbor Where: Davey’s Locker, Pavilion Building 400 Main Street Newport Beach 92661 When: July 4, 2022 (7 pm to 9:45 pm)
Activities: Join cruises to view the amazing fireworks shows Newport Beach is known for. Cruises start off touring Newport Beach and viewing the yachts and boats celebrating July 4th, as well as Bay Front estates going all out with Independence Day events. As the sun sets the ships choose from several huge fireworks displays and get positioned for the show. The sights and sounds of fireworks over the ocean is a magical experience. This is a sell out event. For more info and tickets go to https://cruisenewportbeach.com/book-cruise_newportbeach.html or call 949-673-1434.
For those who can’t make the fireworks cruises, fireworks shows take place from Newport Back Bay, a private barge just outside the mouth of Newport Bay, viewable from the Wedge and surrounding beach, and an amazing private show off Emerald Bay Newport Coast just south of Newport Bay.
Annual 4th of July for Families Newport Peninsula Bike Parade at 9:00AM W. Balboa Blvd. & 36th Street Community Festival 9:30 – 11:30AM Channel Place Park – 4400 Channel Place
Carnival Games + Arts & Crafts + Lawn Games & Music + Food for Sale
Annual Mariners Park Independence Day Celebration Parade begins at 10:30 on the corner of Commodore and Mariners Drive
Celebration 11:00AM – 1:30PM
Food trucks, Live music, free entertainment, eating contests, lawn games, puppet show
Activities: Guests will enjoy a weekend full of events and fun including swimming, watersports, inflatable water park, movies on the beach, and more. Fireworks show on 4th of July.
Activities: Decorated boats will be cruising the Harbor. Come out and watch or join the fun.
ORANGE
3rd of July Celebration Where: Grijalva Park – 368 N. Prospect St. When: July 3, 2022, 4-9PM
Activities: The City of Orange’s 2022 Third of July Celebration will feature music, games, kids activities, food trucks, and a fireworks display. Children 2 and under are free, general admission is $7.
July 4th Star Spangled Spectacular Where: Lago Santa Margarita Beach Club and Lakeshore Park: 21472 Avenida De Los Fundadores, Rancho Santa Margarita When: July 4, 2022 8:00AM to 9:00PM
Activities: This year, SAMLARC is hosting a 4th of July celebration complete with food, a patriotic bike parade, activities on the lake, and a fireworks display.
Activities: Enjoy a weekend packed with fun at the summer carnival featuring music, dancing, carnival rides and games, bounce house, food, exhibitors, and fireworks at 9:00 p.m. on July 4th! Free trolley service!
Friday, July 1: Carnival is 4PM – 10PM
Saturday & Sunday: Carnival runs 12PM – 10PM
Monday, July 4th: Summer Carnival & 4th of July Celebration 12PM – 10:30PM
Activities: Fireworks begin at 9:00 p.m. A livestream will begin at 8:30 at www.Tustin4thOfJuly.com with a radio broadcast of music on 91.7 FM. The High School will remain closed. Families are asked to watch the show from home.
Activities: For 2022, Villa Park rolls out the Stars On Parade masked strolling and rolling event on the 4th of July. Decorate your bike, scooter, wagon, skateboard, stroller, or scooter and join in the fun. Motorized vehicles will be permitted but will park on Taft and enter the group after walkers have passed. Line-up begins at 8:30 am.
YORBA LINDA
4th of July Fireworks Spectacular Where: Veterans Sports Park – 4756 Valley View Ave. & Yorba Linda Middle School – 4777 Casa Loma Ave. When: July 4, 2022 beginning at 5:00 PM; Fireworks at 9:00 PM
Activities: Food vendors, family activities, live band featuring Rouge Radio and fireworks display.
Do you know about the Huntington Library near Pasadena? It’s not just a Library! It’s also an Art Museum and Botanical Gardens. The Huntington is located near Pasadena at 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino, California, 12 miles from downtown Los Angeles. Visitor information: huntington.org or 626-405-2100.
PLEASE NOTE: WEEKEND RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. Advance reservations required for weekends. Capacity limited. No walk-ins. >> Reserve HERE
This weekend kicks off Huntington Library’s Summer Evening Strolls where you can enjoy the breathtaking gardens at sunset, meet your friends and dine at the 1919 Cafe. Summer Evening Strolls are only available on selected evenings through Labor Day. Check out Huntington Library’s website for detailed information on dates, hours, and tickets.
Fri., July 1 | Sat., July 9 | Sat., July 23 | Sat., July 30
Sat., Aug. 6 | Sun., Aug. 14* | Sun., Aug. 21*
Fri., Sept. 2*
*4:30–7:30 p.m. due to the earlier sunset.
KEEP IN MIND:
Advance online timed entry reservations are required.
Strolls conclude at 7:30pm beginning the weekend of Aug. 21 due to sunset.
Red Car coffee shop open until 5 p.m.
1919 Cafe open until 7 p.m.
Huntington Store open until 8 p.m.
Galleries, the Library Exhibition Hall, and the Children’s Garden are closed.
Picnicking is not permitted during Summer Strolls.
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There are plenty of other events on their CALENDAR including the following that we hand picked:
FREE DAYS – The first Thursday of every month is Free Day. Go to site for more info!
SPECIALTY TOURS – Three selections of 90-minute walking tours of the Chinese Garden, Japanese Garden, or the entire Estate!
MUSIC IN THE CHINESE GARDEN – Enjoy traditional Chinese music every Wednesday afternoon in the Garden of Flowing Fragrance. Let the music transport you to another time and place as you stroll through one of the most magical landscapes in Southern California.
Are you looking for something spectacular to grace your Memorial Day/Start of Summer BBQ? Hop on over to Instagram to browse through some amazing patriotic charcuterie boards that are truly easy enough for anyone to make and guaranteed to “Wow” your family and friends! → www.instagram.com/explore/tags/memorialdaycharcuterie
Have a blessed Memorial Day and enjoy the holiday weekend!
Brea’s Annual Foodie Extravaganza is here! Enjoy a delicious mix of food, drinks, and fun in Brea Downtown at the 2022 Taste of Brea®. Come and enjoy dancing to live music with family and friends. Spend this evening strolling the Brea Downton enjoying tasty samples from our local Brea restaurants and beer/wine providers while reveling in the beautiful domain that Brea has to offer. Got Questions? Contact the Brea Chamber office at (714) 529-3660 www.tasteofbrea.com
Sip your way through Memorial Day weekend at the 13th annual Newport Beach Wine Festival. The festival will take place at Balboa Bay Resort with multiple events each day. This beautiful waterfront setting is ideal for sipping fine wines, savoring delicious entrees, tasting craft beers and more. Learn how to cook a wine-themed meal or take the opportunity to expand your knowledge on wine characteristics and blending. See website for complete schedule of events. $65-$150 per event. 949.630.4146. www.balboabayresort.com/nbwinefestival
LOCATION:
Balboa Bay Resort
1221 West Coast Hwy
Newport Beach, CA
The festival is a parade and carnival celebrating the city’s strawberry-growing history. Free admission! INFORMATION: 714-638-0981 www.strawberryfestival.org
The event features hundreds of bagpipers and drummers, Scottish and Irish food and vendors, Scottish clans, Highland dancing and traditional Scottish feats of strength like the hammer throw, putting the stone and caber toss. Part of the United Scottish Society, the festival was established in 1932 and was called a Highland Games in the tradition of Scottish heritage. www.scottishfest.com
LOCATION:
OC Fair and Event Center
88 Fair Drive
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Enjoy Memorial Day weekend with family and friends at Knott’s Berry Farm. All active, veteran and retired US Military personnel will be honored and celebrated with complimentary admission. Up to six tickets may be purchased for family and friends at a discounted rate. End your day of fun with a spectacular fireworks show that will light up the night sky on Sunday at 9:45 p.m. F-Sa 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Sun 10 a.m.-11 p.m. See website for ticket pricing. 714.220.5200. knotts.com
LOCATION:
Knott’s Berry Farm
8039 Beach Blvd.
Buena Park, CA
Celebrate Memorial Day with the City of Laguna Hills 18th annual Memorial Day run, honoring the United States Marine Corps Dark Horse Battalion. Participants can choose between a 5K, 10K or half-marathon. Runners and walkers of all levels are invited to come out and enjoy the Memorial Day festivities. After the race enjoy food from local food trucks, a beer garden and DJ tunes. 8 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Register online. 949.975.8506. lagunahillshalfmarathon.com
LOCATION:
El Toro Road & I-5 Freeway
24155 Laguna Hills Mall
Laguna Hills, CA
Now that January is just around the corner, we present to you ten resolutions for your home this year, in the perfect spirit of new beginnings. They say home is where your heart is but a lovelier, better organized, and more comfortable place to live will surely work wonders.
CA REAL ESTATE GROUP powered by Keller Williams Realty
Christine Almarines @carealestategroup
Realtor DRE # 01412944
714-476-4637 | christine@carealestategroup.com
Michelle Kim @michellejeankim_homes
Realtor DRE # 01885912
714-253-7531 | michelle@carealestategroup.com
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Christine Almarines 
