NowđĽHereâs whatâs happening this weekend in OC!
Imaginology Apr 13-14 @oc_fair
This event is one of the best of its kind with a focus on STEAM education. For one weekend only participate in activities, watch demonstrations and let the kids immerse themselves in the wonderful world of STEAM
Race On The Base, Sat, Apr 13 @raceonthebase
The ever-popular UWS Race on the Base Reverse Sprint Triathlon and 5K Walk/Run is here!
GardenFest Sat, Apr 13
San Clementeâs Biggest, Best Plant Sale and Garden/Household Goods Flea Market. Waterwise Plants, California Native Plants, Succulents, Cactus, Perennials, Annuals, Herbs, as well as an assortment of other types of plants. 8am-2pm at the San Clemente Community Center.
Sake Festival, Sun, Apr 14 @gokumius
More than 40 craft sakes available for tasting and izakaya style appetizer buffets at Gokumi Ramen & Yakitori with 2 time frames available. 1-3pm or 5-8pm. Tickets are $50/ Each. Must be 21+ to attend.
Paws In The Park, Sat, Apr 13
There will be plenty to bark about at this event featuring pet-related vendors, rescue groups, DJ and games, crafts, activities and more. 10am-12:30pm On The Town Green In Ladera Ranch.
Springtime in Paris Boutique, Sat, Apr 13
Immerse yourself in the allure of Parisian charm as you peruse hand-sculpted treasures crafted by our talented local artisans and crafters. Featuring over 50+ vendors, our boutique offers an array of quirky and irresistible gifts. 8am-4pm at the Norman P Murray Community Center in Mission Viejo
Try these silly easy April Foolsâ pranks for the family! This post is full of April Foolsâ ideas that bring on the laughs!Â
Do you like playing harmless and silly April Foolsâ Day pranks on your family?
I personally think itâs fun to become a little bit of a prankster once in a while to lighten the mood and make my kids laugh. Here are a few funny and easy April Foolsâ pranks for the family. These clever ideas sure to bring some giggles â even year-round when they least expect it! Ha Ha!
Try these easy April Foolsâ pranks for the family:
1. âIce Creamâ Sundaes that are savory, not sweet.
This is one of the best April Foolsâ pranks for the family! Use an ice cream scooper to serve up these âice creamâ sundaes that are actually made from mashed potatoes and gravy. Donât they look so realistic?
Collin actually played this prank on her daughter, Piper, a few years back. Check out this April Fools FAIL video as things didnât go as planned.Â
2. Bug on a Lampshade is sure to create some jump scares!
Tape a plastic bug (find plastic spiders at your local dollar store or on Amazon.com!) on the inside of a lampshade and then ask a family member to turn on the light. Yikes!
3. This Donut Box Trick is full of veggies no one expected.
This April Foolsâ prank for the family is bound to get everyone!  Grab a donut box and fill it with fresh veggies for a funny fake-out!
4. This Oreo cookie trick will result in disappointment.
Itâs a classic prank! Replace Oreo cookie filling with toothpaste! Use a butter knife to scrape off the Oreo filling and place a little white toothpaste in the middle of one side. When you put it back together, it looks exactly like a real Oreo cookie!
You could even leave some of the outer edges of the original cream filling so that from the outside, the cookie wonât look tampered with at all!
Hip Tip:Â Worried about eating toothpaste? Instead of making prank Oreos, make prank toothpaste instead. Take an old toothpaste tube and fill it up with peanut butter. When your loved one goes to brush their teeth, theyâll get a tasty surprise!
5. Thatâs not orange juice!
Do you know that orange powdered cheese packet that comes with packaged Mac and Cheese? Pour it into a pitcher, mix it with water, and it looks exactly like orange juice!Â
6. Give out some Cracker Jack carrots.Â
For a fun lunch box prank, replace a snack box like Cracker Jacks with fresh baby carrots. This trick also works well with a small bag of chips. Just remember to seal the package back up with a little double-sided tape for a more realistic effect!
7. âSpaghetti and Meatballsâ cupcakes are the perfect April Foolsâ dessert.
While itâs technically an April Foolâs prank, this easy cupcake recipe actually makes for a yummy treat amidst the joke. Plus, they look so realistic!
Hip Tip:Â Have some extra chocolate? Use it to make chocolate-covered rocks or cotton balls. Your fam will think itâs candy! Just make sure the prank recipient doesnât actually eat them!!
9. Put fake eyes on the inanimate objects in your home.
Take a page from Hip2Saveâs Liz. She gifted her nephews a pack of silly craft eyeballs. For April Foolsâ Day, the boys stuck these googly eyes on inanimate objects all over their house. The family kept finding them for weeks, so this is one April Foolsâ prank that can keeps the laughs coming!
10. Put some confetti in a vent!
You can either buy confetti or cut up some paper, stick it in someoneâs car vents, and wait for them to be covered when they turn the air on! A few of our readers did this funny prank, and the results were hilarious.
11. Place plastic wrap over your toilet bowl.
Hip2Saveâs Angie has a mom with a sense of humor! One of her easy April Foolsâ pranks for the family included placing plastic wrap over the toilet bowl. When someone has to go, hopefully they notice the clear barrier first! This prank might get a little messy  but itâs a tried a true April Foolsâ Day idea!
12. Add a special âsyrupâ to their coffee.
Angieâs daughter once pranked her on April Foolsâ Day by putting soy sauce in the coffee. Angie didnât even realize until she was in the car and sipping on her travel mug!  This idea is one of the easy April Foolsâ Day pranks for family. Itâs truly a cinch to pull off and very affordable!
13. Serve up a salty breakfast.
Start the day with a prank! For April Foolsâ breakfast, serve up a grapefruit thatâs covered in white pepper instead of sugar! Hopefully the victim doesnât feel too salty about it afterwards!
14. Perform a manicure on a heavy sleeper.
This April Foolsâ Prank was suggested by a Hip reader who tried it on her husband and we think it is too funny! If you have a very heavy sleeper in your family, surprise them on April 1st by giving them a manicure while they are sleeping. The weirder the paint job, the better!
15. Pretend you âpeedâ on the floor.
This is another reader favorite prank! Grab a bag or can of peas and place it on the bathroom floor. Shock your family when you tell them that you had an accident in the bathroom. Theyâre in for a laugh when they find out what you meant by âpeed.â
âLast year my best friend took a bag of peas from the freezer, brought it to the bathroom, set the bag on the floor, and told her parents that she had peed on the floor. her dadâs reaction was so hilarious!!!!â
16. Fake a shopping spree.
This hilarious idea came from Hip reader Tracey and we LOVE it! Save your empty Amazon packages throughout the year and âdeliverâ them to your doorstep for an unsuspecting family member to find!
âLast year I pranked my DH by saving up Amazon & Target boxes and putting them outside the front door; I even filled them with some books so they would have some weight. He was like, âumm, what did you order?!â The worried look on his face was too funny. Amazon doesnât use too many boxes these days, but itâd be easy to save up some of their shipping envelopes if you open them carefully.â
17. Star Wars fans wonât be able to get enough of this âblue milkâ!
Readerâs Digest brought up the perfect prank to get the kiddos into the April Foolâs spirit â blue milk! Simply add a few drops of blue food color to your milk carton, and you can serve up a glass of blue milk!
18. Serve up a bowl of cereal that requires a little extra work to enjoy.
Have kiddos that enjoy cereal? Good Housekeeping recommends creating some April foolâs prep a night in advance by pouring cereal and milk and adding a spoon then freezing it overnight. Your kiddos will be stumped trying to dig into this frozen bowl of cereal.Â
19. Keep the lights off.
KidsActivities.com recommends using colored tape for little ones and clear tape for older kiddos, leaving them confused about the lack of light.Â
About the writer:
Lina has a Bachelor’s Degree from Northern Arizona University with 11 years of blogging and photography experience having work featured in Today.com, Martha Stewart, Country Living, Fox News, Buzzfeed, and HGTV.
OC Register | Wed, Mar 13, 2024
Citrus City Grille (Orange): Enjoy a three-course prix-fixe menu that includes a soup or salad starter (either an organic greens salad of red grapes, apples, onions, candied pecans, cranberries and gorgonzola or a cream of broccoli soup, made with extra virgin olive oil, broccoli, celery and onions); an entree of corned beef and cabbage with carrots, roasted potatoes and horseradish cream; and key lime pie for dessert. Each course, fittingly, features shades of green. Cost is $45 per guest. 122 N. Glassell St., Orange
Dublin 4 Gastropub (Mission Viejo): Enjoy choice, comforting Irish staples and more at this Gastropub, which features Guinness brown bread with shipped butter, a sausage roll with caramelized onions, crispy potatoes and seasoned fries; a house-cured corned beef reuben sandwich, fish and chips, cottage pie, bangers and mash, and more. 26342 Oso Parkway, Mission Viejo
Durty Nellyâs (Costa Mesa): St. Patrickâs Day menu includes fish and chips, bangers and mash, corned beef and cabbage, corned beef sandwich and more. Also of note? Green beer, $6 Jameson shots and no cover charge. 2915 Red Hill Ave., Costa Mesa
Five Crowns (Corona Del Mar): On March 21, Five Crowns will host âA Killing at Killarney,â a St. Patrickâs Day-themed murder mystery dinner party. Old Irish tunes like âMolly Malone,â âMy Wild Irish Roseâ and âAn Irish Lullabyâ will fill the air as you try to solve a murder case before dessert arrives. As the murder and mayhem narrative unravels, guests will enjoy a four-course meal of stationed appetizers, including chicken lollipops and parmesan arancini, Caesar salad with little gem lettuce, Parmigiano Reggiano and croutons; an entree choice of prime rib, petite filet, herb roasted chicken or Faroe Island salmon; and creme brulee. Put on your detective hats for $145 per person. Dinner begins at 6 p.m. Reservations required. 3801 East Coast Highway, Corona Del Mar
Hennesseyâs (several locations): Iâd be remiss leaving out Hennesseyâs, a veritable Irish-themed institution since 1976. Head to any one of its locations (Orange County spots include Laguna Beach, Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano, Seal Beach and Costa Mesa) for Irish nachos, the Dublin Burger (Irish cheddar, smoked bacon, lettuce, tomato), Shepherdâs pie, fish and chips and more. 34111 La Plaza, Dana Point; 31761 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano; 213 Ocean Ave., Laguna Beach; 1773 Newport Blvd., Costa Mesa; 143 Main St., Seal Beach
Heritage Barbecue (San Juan Capistrano): Lauded barbecue restaurant will have a two-day St. Patrickâs day menu, which includes smoked corn beef served with fried cabbage, bacon and colcannon; seafood chowder featuring smoked clams and shrimp, potato, bacon and cream; colcannon with Yukon mashed potatoes and wilted kale; corned beef sandwiches and brisket burnt ends and Guinness stew. Dine-in only.  Available until they sell out on Saturday, March 16 and Sunday, March 17. (Youâll want to arrive early for this one.) 31721 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano
Macallans Public House (Brea): Noted for its extensive beer and whiskey menu, this Irish-themed spot also serves lamb Irish stew, bangers and mash, shepherdâs pie and beef wellington. 330 W Birch St., Brea
Muldoonâs Pub (Newport Beach): The pub opens its doors at 7 a.m. and early-bird revelers can enjoy live music all day long, with a bagpipe player starting at noon. Fare includes banger bites (Irish sausage with warm Dijon sauce for dipping), whiskey chicken wings, a large St. Paddyâs pretzel, Irish beef stew made with Guinness Stout, corned beef and cabbage, and more. 202 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach
OâMalleyâs (Seal Beach): Traditional Irish food here includes an all-day Irish breakfast (rasher, sausage, pork pudding, baked beans), salmon boxty, corned beef and cabbage, Guinness beef stew, bangers and mash, pan-seared chicken breast with whiskey mushroom sauce and more. Dessert highlights include a bread pudding with vanilla bean cream sauce and a Baileyâs cheesecake. 140 Main St., Seal Beach
The Original Patsyâs Irish Pub (Laguna Niguel): This Irish joint will throw a three-day St. Patrickâs Day party, from March 15 until March 17, featuring live music, suds galore and comforting food. Irish signatures include corned beef and cabbage, Irish mac and cheese (which comes studded with corned beef), bangers and mash, shepherdâs pie, Guinness beef stew and more. Donât miss out on Patsyâs bread pudding for dessert. 28971 Golden Lantern #108, Laguna Niguel
Paradise Dynasty (Costa Mesa): While neither explicitly nor literally a St. Patrickâs Day affair, the limited-edition xiao long boa collaboration could prove perfect for those who prefer the typically rowdy holiday to be an over-the-shoulder wink. The soup dumpling purveyor has teamed up with Phoholic, Little Saigonâs Michelin-recognized pho spot, to create beef pho xiao long bao. The chefs at the South Coast Plaza spot enrobe Phoholicâs 14-hour beef bone broth and beef in a sea green and white-hued dumpling skin that, in addition to being downright tasty, might make ideal #StPatricksDay fodder for Instagram. The limited-edition XLBs, available until April 30, are served with a few pho accoutrements, including Sriracha, hoisin sauce and fresh lime. 3333 Bristol St. (at South Coast Plaza), 1 Bloomingdaleâs, Costa Mesa
Sidedoor (Corona del Mar): From Friday, March 15 through Sunday, March 17, enjoy a St. Patrickâs weekend filled with live Irish music and fare. The holiday menu will include bangers and mash with two Irish pork bangers with caramelized onions, mashed potatoes, mushy peas and onion gravy ($26); corned beef and cabbage with red potatoes, carrots and parsley cream sauce ($31); and Guinness beef pot pie with red potatoes, peas, carrots and puff pastry ($23). Sidedoor will also offer Tullamore Dew flights on March 17. 3801 East Coast Highway, Corona Del Mar
Silky Sullivanâs Restaurant and Irish Pub (Fountain Valley): This Irish eatery will feature live music by the Silk Button Butchers Outside, Echo Love Chamber and Irish bagpipe players. Menu highlights include blackened shrimp tacos, Irish pub crisps with house-made potato chips topped with Irish cheddar and Dubliner cheese, and Cajun chicken breast strips.10201 Slater Ave., Fountain Valley
Daily beginning March 11, 2024: Mon-Fri at 9:30am, 11am, 1pm, & 2:30pm | Sat & Sun every 30 minutes between 9:30am and 2:30pm
Tanaka Farms is famous for their delicious, sweet, and juicy strawberries! Take a wagon ride around the farm. Learn about the farming methods and history of the farm from your friendly tour guide. You will see how fruits and vegetables grow! Make one stop to pick a seasonal vegetable*, and then the last stop on this tour is in the strawberry patch where you can pick and eat strawberries! Everyone will take home a one-pound basket of strawberries! After the tour, visit the Barnyard Educational Exhibit where you can meet and interact with their barnyard friends.
Weâve all been there: Looking forward to Saturday all week long, only for it to arrive accompanied by torrents of rain. While a rainstorm can foil certain plans, it certainly doesnât need to ruin your hopes of having a fun-filled weekend. There are plenty of ways for kids and families to enjoy each otherâs company on a rainy dayâboth safe from the raindrops and amidst them.
Here, youâll find 50 rainy day activities that will keep your kids entertained and happy.
Wavebreakmedia / Getty Images
Indoor Activities for Families
When the rain is coming down in sheets, settle in and try one of these activities.
Have storytime. You canât go wrong with a good old-fashioned storytime. If your kids are old enough, they can take turns reading.
Sort through old toys. Your playroom will be much more organized at the end, plus you may discover some old toys that you can put in storage or donate.
Go to the library. When you want to get everyone out of the house for free, the local library canât be beaten. “We have books, audiobooks, DVDs, and fun kits and backpacks to check out,” says Marty Mason, a youth services librarian at Chelmsford Public Library in Chelmsford, MA. “Plus a full programming schedule for kids.”
Bake cookies. Tie on your aprons and let little ones help with mixing, rolling out dough, and decorating.
Make pizza. While cookies are nice and easy for younger children, more advanced baking or cooking projects can be fun for elementary or middle school-aged kids, suggests Mason. Pizza is a fun one, as it’s easy to roll out the dough, spread on the sauce, and layer on the toppings.
Play a board game. The classics are great, but there are also tons of newer board games great for kids. Some of our favorites include Blank Slate, UNO Attack!, and Clue Junior.
Try mindfulness exercises. âHave kids reflect on how their week is going,â suggests Christopher Lacroix, MEd, a history teacher at Whittier Regional Vocational Technical High School in Haverhill, MA. âThis can be very beneficial for kids to help promote time management skills and set a daily schedule.â
Create a treasure hunt. If your kids are too small to figure out scavenger hunt-style clues, simply give them a list of household items that they have to track down and collect.
Visit a museum. Childrenâs museums with interactive and engaging activities are a great way to pass the time on a rainy day. Before you buy tickets, check to see if you can get a discount through your local library.
See a movieâat home. Pop some popcorn, pull out the blankets and settle in to watch a new movie or an old favorite.
Play Globle. âThis is an online geography-based guessing game that allows kids to practice and
grow their geographic knowledge on a global scale,â says Lacroix. âThe object is to figure out which country is the mystery country by guessing the names of other countries that are close to it. You can play it once a day or use the practice mode function to play as many times as you want. My grade nine students absolutely love it.â
Have a living room dance party. “This is a great way to get the wiggles out,” says Mason. Everyone in your family can take turns putting on their favorite songs.
Have an indoor picnic. You don’t have to be outside to eat on the ground. Pack a picnic basket with your children, spread out a blanket in the living room, and enjoy the meal you prepared.
Solve some riddles. âRiddles are a great way to pass the time and get kids to think outside of the box,â says Lacroix. His favorite ones force kids to call on their math skills.
Play school. As a fun twist, let your kid be the teacher and you be the student.
Jose Luiz Pelaez Inc / Getty Images
Indoor Activities for Siblings
If all of your kids are stuck inside, these activities will make for great bonding and even more fun.
Choreograph a dance. They can also learn the choreography of a popular dance online, then record it with a phone or perform it for the family.
Build a fort. “Building a blanket fort is great imaginative play,” says Mason. Couch cushions, pillows, and chairs are also encouraged.
Put on a play. Acting out a favorite picture book will make for engaging theater. Or, depending on how old your oldest is, they can come up with a story of their own, suggests Mason. Costumes are a must for the final performance.
Transform cardboard boxes. We all have that giant stack of recycling in our garagesâchallenge your kids to use the cardboard (and/or other materials like plastic bottles and egg cartons) to build new things to play with.
Play with playdough. Playdough can provide endless fun for kids from preschool age all the way to middle school, Mason says. Plus, it’s a cinch to clean up.
Make puppets and put on a show. Stuffed animals, socks, and cut-out shapes on popsicle sticks can all become puppets, while the back of a couch or a table covered with a cloth makes for a fine stage.
Build a masking tape city. Use masking tape to create roads and buildings on the floor (this works particularly well in carpeted rooms, as the tape will come off very easily), then grab some toy cars and go to town.
Write a poem or a song. Older siblings can help smaller ones think of words that rhyme with one another.
Stephen Welstead / Getty Images
Solo Indoor Activities for Kids
For times when the adults have other things to do and there’s only one child at home, these activities will keep your child engaged.
Write postcards or letters. For children who can write, give them the tools to write letters or postcards to their friends, siblings, or relatives.
Make greeting cards. Part arts-and-crafts and part writing exercise, kids can cut out words and pictures from magazines to paste on the front of their cards before writing inside. Or they can break out the crayons to make a hand-drawn card.
Line up dominos. The more dominos you have, the longer your child can spend creating designs with them and then watching them fall.
Read a book. The perfect indoor activity. Audiobooks are also great for downtime, notes Mason, if kids prefer to listen.
Put together a puzzle. Breaking out a brand-new puzzle on a rainy day can keep kids of all ages occupied for hours, says Mason.
Draw. Kids can have fun with crayons and colored pencils no matter their age. Depending on their skill level, you can print out coloring pages or pictures that they can trace or replicateâor you can just spread out the paper and see what they create.
Play video games. With adult permission and limits, educational video games and apps are an engaging way to pass the time, says Mason.
Expand a picture. A fun twist on drawing, you can have your child cut out a picture from a magazine, print out an image, or use a photo you have lying around. They will paste that photo in the center of a large sheet of paper or piece of poster board and then expand the picture around it, getting creative with the setting and anyone else in the image.
Build with Legos. Following a kit is fun, but challenging your child to build something new using all the pieces they have will help spark their creativity.
Practice an instrument. From the xylophone to the drums to the recorder to the trumpet, no child is too small to make some music, Mason says.
Cavan Images / Getty Images
Outdoor Activities for Families
A little rain never hurt anybody. As long as there isnât any thunder or lightning in your area and youâre avoiding swimming pools and running water like creeks, which can rise quickly in the rain, throw on a raincoat and boots and try some of these fun outdoor activities.
Go for a walk. Thereâs just something about splashing through puddles that hits differently from a walk on a sunny day, says Mason.
Build a shelter. Head into the yard with a tarp and some rope and see if you can build a dry shelter.
Try to make a fire. This will take a while and requires the proper skills and tools, but finally seeing those flames lick upward will be incredibly satisfying.
Play with a water table. Water itself can be endlessly entertaining, especially for young children. Set up a table outside with cups, bowls, bottles, and funnelsâthen let them enjoy themselves.
Race âboats.â If your driveway or street slopes down, have your kids grab leaves, sticks, flowers, or pinecones and race them down the running water. This option is best for families who don’t live on busy roads, but no matter what, be sure to keep an eye out for cars.
Measure the rainfall. Set out containers of different sizes and see how long it takes for the rain to fill up each.
Have a water fight. Water balloons are fun, squirt guns are too. Everyone is wet already, after all.
Build dams in puddles. Use rocks, sticks, or your hands to flood holes and impressions in the yard or driveway, then try floating things in them.
Set up a slip and slide. If you donât have an official slip and slide, a tarp works greatâand you wonât even need the hose! Try adding some dish soap, baby soap or body wash to make things extra slippery.
Draw with chalk. Chalk will still draw great in the rain, but the colors will appear slightly different.
Play with sand or mud. They become natural molding materials when wet.
Shower in the rain. Little ones will get a kick out of this one! Bring shampoo and soap outside and lather up in the rain.
Create a water band. This one works especially well if it’s raining hard. Bring out buckets, cups, covers, and other containers made of plastic or tin and see what sounds they make as the water hits themâor grab some shovels and spoons and make music of your own.
Hunt for rain-loving critters. Frogs, toads, worms, snails, and slugs all come out in the rain. See how many you can findâwithout hurting them, of course.
Dance with umbrellas. There’s something about twirling with an umbrella that makes the activity that much more fun.
Cloud peep. Check out the clouds around your house and your neighborhood and see if you can tell the difference between those that are dumping rain and those that will bring dry skies.
Go rainbow hunting. As the storm is letting up, pull on your boots and head out around the neighborhood to see if you can spot a rainbow.
By Alyssa Sybertz
Alyssa has been writing about health and wellness since 2013. Her work has appeared in print in publications like FIRST for Women, Woman’s World, and Closer Weekly and online at places like TheHealthy.com, Allrecipes.com, and OnePeloton.com. She is the author of The OMAD Diet and has served as editor-in-chief for two magazines about intermittent fasting.
You can throw a legendary Super Bowl partyâeven when you’re only watching for the commercials. Here’s what to do!
Every editorial product is independently selected, though we may be compensated or receive an affiliate commission if you buy something through our links. Ratings and prices are accurate and items are in stock as of time of publication.
It seems that the best parties in the winter all revolve around football. Even if you donât love sports, fear not. Throwing a Super Bowl party can be just as fun for the host as it is for sports fans. Stock up on tailgate snacks and slamminâ Super Bowl cocktails and letâs get going!
BRIANNA GRIEPENTROG/TASTE OF HOME
Bring on the Drinks
Football wouldnât be a great American sport without a great American beverage. Before the party, snag a local beer from the cities of the teams competing or pick up one of our favorite cheap beer brands for your shindig. If theyâre not into beer, pick a signature cocktail for each team based on their city, mascot or team colors. Mix up a pitcher of each drink ahead of time with a little splash of food coloring to match each teamâs jerseys.
TASTE OF HOME
Do a Dip
Cheesy dips are a staple of any legendary tailgate, and a Super Bowl party is no different. Look for a few creative recipes and choose one that is cheesy, one that is meaty, one that is spicy and one that is vegan to appease all the different taste preferences of your group. Look to these dip recipes for inspiration.
To be the envy of all your friends (and the star of their Instagram stories) build yourself a snack stadium. Fill a few cardboard boxes or aluminum pans with all your favorite snacks (including some of these healthy Super Bowl recipes, for a well-balanced selection). Make a field out of a frosted cake and place it in the center. Learn how to build a snack stadium with our step-by-step guide.
VIA MERCURIALCREATIONS2/ETSY.COM
Set the Scene
Make your guests feel like theyâre watching the game from the sidelines with plenty of creative decorations. From AstroTurf coasters to football drink stirrers to a festive concession stand sign, decorating for your party can be just as fun as the party itself. Decorate one half of the living room with one teamâs colors, and the other half of the living room with the other teamâs colors. Your guests can choose where they want to sit and cheer on their favorite team.
TASTE OF HOME
Wing It
The staple of any great sports viewing party is a tray of sticky, sweet and tangy chicken wings. Prepare a range of flavors from extra spicy to sweet and mild and have a few dipping sauces (like ranch or blue cheese dressing) on the side. Wings are the perfect finger food, but be sure to have plenty of cocktail napkins ready for these fall off the bone, finger-licking goods!
VIA AMAZON.COM
Show Your Spirit
Throw a competition to see who has the most (and most creative) team spirit in the group. Have a face painting kit at the ready with some colorful streamers and spray on hair dye. Challenge your friends to create the craziest costumes and have a makeshift catwalk for them to show off their team spirit.
TASTE OF HOME
Pick a Winning Dessert
What better way to wash down all those wings and beers than with sweet and decadent Super Bowl desserts! Help ease the pain for the losing team with a crowd-pleasing classic like caramel brownies or ice cream and cookie pie. Even if their team lost the game, we bet your guests will leave with a full belly and happy heart.
Laura is a New York-based freelance food writer with a degree in Culinary Arts from the Institute of Culinary Education and a degree in Journalism from Penn State. Her work has appeared in Taste of Home, Chowhound, the Culture Trip and Patch.
Show the love with Cupid-inspired, romantic dinners, heart-shaped pizzas, pies, doughnuts & more V-Day specials throughout Orange County.
ORANGE COUNTY, CA â Valentine’s Day this year falls smack in the middle of the week â Wednesday, Feb. 14.
Whether your celebrations are swanky or low-key, reservations are imperative.
So check out our annual, V-Day dining guide for some of the sweetest offers â for all tastes and budgets âat restaurants, bakeries and pizzerias throughout Orange County.
Find what appeals, scroll through the photo show above for visual inspiration, then get to booking.
And XOXO, from Patch!
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ACAPULCO: Celebrate V-Day Feb. 14-17 with three-course, “Sweetheart Menu for Two” ($55). Begin with tortilla soup or Caesar salad, then choose entrĂŠe of chicken, shrimp or steak fajitas, a fajitas duo, crab & shrimp enchiladas, or Muy Grande Platter (chicken, carnitas, enchilada, vegetables, refried beans & rice). Shareable desserts selections: Mrs. Fieldâs Sizzling Cookie; Oreo cookie ice cream torta; flan; or caramelo cheesecake. Info/bookings. Find restaurant here in Costa Mesa.
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BAYSIDE RESTAURANT: Wow your sweetheart Valentine’s Day at this harbor-front spot with three-course dinner. Selections for lobster bisque, beef tartare, filet mignon, mushroom-crusted seabass & flourless chocolate tarte or crowd-favorite, lemon meringue tart. Live music, too. Plus seating options for inside dining room or covered & heated open-air terrace. $125 per person. Reservations. At 900 Bayside Drive, Newport Beach.
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BISTANGO: Cue the romance on V-Day with this eatery’s art gallery walls & live music, plus a chef-curated, three-course dinner with surf-n-turf focus. Served Feb. 14 from 4:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. $125/person. Seatings either under palms on open-air, heated patio, or in dining room’s private booth. Reservations. At 19100 Von Karman Ave., Irvine.
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BLACK ANGUS STEAKHOUSE: Choices here! Valentine’s Day options include “Campfire Feast Dinner for Two”($68), with starter, two entrees including prime rib & salmon, two sidekicks, broccoli & mashed potatoes, plus dessert. For couples wanting a little more “Surf ‘n’ Turf Dinner for Two” ($115), with two filet mignons, two lobster tails, starter, four sides, molasses bread, dessert & two prosecco splits. Bookings. Find locales in Buena Park, Fountain Valley, Santa Ana.
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CAFE SEVILLA: Spanish-inspired menu, Latin music & flamenco entertainment are planned Valentine’s Day. Choose from four-course, prix-fixe special, with warm goat cheese dip & Spanish charcuterie to start, followed by lobster cake & citrus salad, pan-seared duck with Spanish beer glaze or lobster paella, and orange tart dessert with raspberry meringue. ($150/couple with live music 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.) Evening options include dazzling, flamenco show & dinner with three-course, lobster paella feast. ($119/person.) Plus, all Feb. 14 diners receive complimentary entry to Sevilla Ultra Lounge with live DJ & dancing. Details/reservations. At 1870 Harbor Blvd., Costa Mesa.
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CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN: Specials, including heart-shaped pizzas with crispy, thin crust, are back Feb. 9 to Feb. 14, for Valentineâs week. “Sweet Deal for Two” offers one appetizer, two entrees & one dessert for $50 (classic) or $60 for “Adventure Package.” Sweet Deal diners also score BOGO-offer bounceback card, redeemable Feb. 15 to Feb. 22. Details. Find locations here.
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EDDIE V’S PRIME SEAFOOD: Dine in style Valentine’s Day with such menu options as oysters, crab cakes, lobster, steaks, scallops, sea bass & more. And don’t miss new V-Day cocktail: “With Love, Eddie,” a bourbon indulgence. Reservations. Location in Newport Beach.
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EL TORITO: Treat your sweetheart Feb. 14-17 to three-course, Valentine special for two ($55), featuring options for tortilla soup, Caesar salad, entrÊes of fajitas, salmon or Macho Combo (pasilla chile relleno, chicken & sour cream enchilada, beef barbacoa taco & chicken tamale). Finish with shareable dessert of mudd pie, deep fried ice cream or cinnamon-crisp cheesecake. Website. See locales.
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FARMER BOYS: Award-winning burger chain plays Cupid this Valentineâs Day with debut of “Burger Bouquet.” As alternative to roses & chocolates, this “bouquet” ($30) is five Big Cheese burgers in special box with V-Day card. Sold via drive-thru, dine-in or phone-ahead, while supplies last. Website. Find restaurants in Orange County.
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FLEMING’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR: Three-course, V-Day menu for two â starring Prime Surf & Turf â will be served Feb. 8-19. Included: oysters Rockefeller & shrimp cocktail starters; bone-in NY strip; filet mignon; two crab-stuffed lobster tails; & dark chocolate torte dessert. ($230 for two.) Specialty cocktail: the Berry Basil Bliss, with gin, sherry, lemon juice & strawberry ($17). Per-guest menu options for filet mignon with crab-stuffed shrimp or Chilean sea bass available. Eateries open early at 3 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 14. Details. Locations here in Anaheim, Newport Beach.
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GELSON’S MARKETS: Create romantic V-Day celebration at home with to-go dinners for two. Options: steak & lobster; salmon & lobster tail; or cordon bleu with lobster tail. Sides include pomegranate apple salad & roasted garlic asparagus. Floral arrangements & chocolate-dipped strawberries also available for a finishing touch. Place orders online for pick-up Feb. 13-14. See info here. Find stores near you.
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KHAN SAAB DESI CRAFT KITCHEN: This twice Michelin-recognized, 100% Halal restaurant is prepping a five-course, Valentine’s Day prix-fixe feast, for Feb. 14 from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. $80 per person. Among highlights: sweet & sour potato chaat; Bazaar Salad of tomatoes, charred watermelon & cucumber; roast mashed eggplant bharta; such entrees as Manchigo corn kofta; lemon chili shrimp; chopal kabob & malai chicken tikka masala; plus banana crème brulee dessert. V-Day mocktail special is Chocolate Martini with Ghirardelli chocolate, caramel, cream & Seedlip Spice 94. Reservations. At 229 East Commonwealth Ave., Fullerton.
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KING’S FISH HOUSE: Celebrate Valentineâs Day at the “House that Seafood Built” with three-course menu starring steak & seafood specials. Among menu selections: eight-ounce filet mignon; South African lobster tail; plus appetizer, choice of sides & dessert. $80 per person. Regular menu, including Chilean sea bass, wild California spiny lobster & more, also available. Reservations. Locations here in Huntington Beach, Laguna Hills & Orange.
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KRISPY KREME: Sweeten V-Day with heart-shaped doughnuts in âDough-Notesâ box with your heart-felt sentiments. This year’s four, new flavors: You Color My World (cake batter filling, red icing & rainbow heart sprinkles); I Love You A Choco-Lot (chocolate filling & icing with rose piping); Youâre Berry Sweet (white Kreme filling, strawberry icing & sprinkles); & Without You Iâd Crumble (cookie dough filling, chocolate icing & cookie crumble). The Dough-Notes dozens box includes space for handwritten notes from giver to receiver. Available through Feb. 14. Details. Shop finder.
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LAS BRISAS: Enjoy romantic, waterfront setting, plus special five-course, prix-fixe dinner from 3 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 14 through Sunday, Feb. 18. $140/person. Menu highlights include lamb chops, filet of beef & butternut squash tamale. Or select $325 per couple option, with tomahawk steak or lobster. Champagne upgrades available for all window tables, starting at $350 per person, on Valentineâs Day. Details/bookings. At 361 Cliff Drive, Laguna Beach.
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LUCIANA’S RISTORANTE: Indulge in romantic ambiance & Italian cuisine with four-course, prix-fixe, Valentine’s Day dinner in historic Lantern District. ($85/person.) Begin with crostini flight. Then select from options as: Insalata di Barbabietole (red & yellow beets, baby greens, balsamic reduction, whipped honey goat cheese); Zuppa di Aragosta with crème fraiche & lobster; filet mignon with porcini sauce, broccolini & Lucianaâs famous butter beans; osso buco; braised chicken; salmon; Ravioli di Aragosta (homemade lobster ravioli); squid ink pasta with shrimp, scallops & crab; plus exotic desserts. Menu. Reservations. At 24312 Del Prado Ave., Dana Point.
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MARUFUKU RAMEN: This eatery is V-Day, date-night ready with menu featuring such dishes as: appetizers of pork cha-shu in Japanese steamed buns; pan-fried pot stickers; fried shishito peppers; authentic Hakata-style Tonkatsu ramen with ultra thin noodle, broth & pork & more. Night cap options include sake, imported beer & craft cocktails. Website. Location here at 8543 Irvine Center Drive, Irvine.
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MIX RESTAURANT AT HILTON ANAHEIM: Win your Valentine’s heart with deluxe, Feb. 14 dinner for two, served 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. & crafted by Executive Chef Juan Lopez & team. Menu highlights: lobster seafood bisque; beet salad; pan-seared âNaked Scallopsâ with saffron cauliflower puree; seafood ravioli; salmon; chicken; herb-crusted steak; plus “Amore” dessert of strawberry & chocolate. Reservations via OpenTable. At 777 W. Convention Way, Anaheim.
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MORTON’S THE STEAKHOUSE: Treat your Valentine to romantic dinner for two, served Feb. 9-17. Included are starters & sides, with entree choices of bone-in New York strip and twin, lobster tails. $169 for two. Dine-in only. Details/reservations. Find locations in Anaheim & Santa Ana.
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MOUNTAIN MIKE’S PIZZA: For entire month of February, heart-shaped pizzas are available for dine-in, takeout & delivery â with toppings of choice, like the chain’s signature crispy, curly pepperoni. To sweeten the deal, bite-sized Mini Churrs are $2.99 with purchase of any heart-shaped pizza. Details. Find stores.
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OJI SUSHI & SAKE BAR: Treat your sushi-loving sweetheart to luxury, all-you-can-eat Valentine’s Day dinner Feb. 14, from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. Adults/$38.99; kids, 8-13/$19.99; kids, 4-7/$14.99; & 3 and under free. For reservations, call 949-515-7400. At 1870 Harbor Blvd., Costa Mesa.
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PIEOLOGY PIZZERIA: V-Day special, Red Velvet Cookies, are back for limited time beginning Feb. 13. Freshly baked with white chocolate chips, Hersheyâs milk chocolate, semisweet chocolate chunks & milk chocolate chunks, they are available for purchase & also as free “perk” option for “Pies and Perks” members. Find locations statewide.
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POLLY’S PIES: Add a delicious twist to Valentineâs Day with heart-shaped, hand pies â in boysenberry, apple & cherry â from family-owned legacy business, founded in 1968 in Fullerton. $7.99 each. Pre-order for pick-up, or schedule a delivery/shipment of four for $35.99. Details. With 13 SoCal locations in Los Angeles, Orange & Riverside counties.
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POSTINO WINE CAFE: Make V-Day a date night to remember with âTakeout & Makeoutâ & âSnacks in The Cityâ to-go packs available through Feb. 18. Or book reservation for parties up to eight from Feb. 10-18. âTakeout & Makeoutâ ($55) includes one “snacky thing,” bruschetta, board & salad and feeds two. âSnacks in The Cityâ feeds four to six ($80) with three “snacky things,” one bruschetta, board & salad. Reservations/order info. At 2981 Michelson Drive, Irvine.
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ROUND TABLE PIZZA: Heart-shaped pizzas are on the menu for Valentine’s Day, plus get $5 off a large, heart-shaped pizza OR regular XL pizza with code HEART5 at checkout. Find locales statewide.
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RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE: Treat your Valentine to “Porterhouse Dinner for Two” or “T-Bone with Horseradish Crust.” Porterhouse is paired with lobster tails & offered only Wednesday, Feb. 14. T-bone special is served Feb.9-18. Details. See sites in Anaheim, Irvine.
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SEASONS 52: Celebrate V-Day with elegant, on-site dining of seasonal favorites & rotating wine flights, or plan romantic, at-home dinner for two with takeout option. To-go meal offers filet mignon, Yukon gold mashed potatoes, broccolini, salad, two Mini Indulgence desserts & bottle of wine for $115. Pre-order takeout 24 hours in advance for Feb. 10-18 pickup. Reservations/ordering details. Location in Costa Mesa.
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SKĂ L PIZZA: “Pizza My Heart: Valentine’s Day Specials” planned Feb. 9 through Feb. 14 (closed Feb. 13) at the health-conscious, stylishly casual eatery, AKA Malibu Farmâs cool âlittle sisterâ restaurant along Lido Marina Village boardwalk. Enjoy chef/restaurateur Helene Henderson’s offerings, including two heart-shaped pizzas: Everything Crust & Lox Pizza: white sauce, smoked salmon, tomatoes, cucumber, dill, caper berries & pickled onions; and Tomato & Spanish Chorizo: tomato sauce, mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, chorizo & oregano. Half-off bottles of wine, too. Website. At 3400 Via Oporto, Newport Beach.
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SNOOZE A.M. EATERY: Celebrate your Valentine with limited-time, sweet treat â Double Chocolate Brownie Pancakes. Offered Feb. 8 through V-Day, Feb. 14, this decadent dish features brownie buttermilk pancake topped with chocolate ganache, strawberries, blueberries & powdered sugar. Find locations in Huntington Beach, Laguna Niguel, Orange, Tustin.
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SUSIECAKES: Keep it sweet & bring home cookies, cupcakes, mini-cupcakes & cakes decorated with Valentine’s Day themes. A super cute, bakery highlight is 4-inch, “Sweetheart Cake,” perfect for two with vanilla buttercream & red and pink hearts. ($42.99.) Order info. Find shops statewide in Costa Mesa, Laguna Niguel, Newport Beach.
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TAVERN + BOWL: For a fun, V-Day with friends & family, book a lane & enjoy dinner & bowling. Menu offerings range from steak & burgers to pizza & vegetarian options. Open Feb. 14, on Valentineâs Day, from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. For more information, call 949-438-2320. OC reservations. At 1875 Newport Blvd., Costa Mesa.
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TENDER GREENS: Sweet, V-Day freebie! Diners at the chef-drive, healthy living, sustainable-focused eateries score free dessert of choice with any entree purchase on Valentineâs Day, Feb. 14. Website. Locations at UC Irvine & Irvine Spectrum.
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THE CAPITAL GRILLE: Valentineâs Day dining promises a chef-prepared, dining experience, featuring variety of wine & champagne selections, dry-aged steaks & complimentary, chocolate-covered strawberries, prepared by in-house pastry chef. Bookings. Location here in Costa Mesa.
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URBAN PLATES: Three-course, Valentineâs special ($55) will be served Feb. 9-19 for dine-in or takeout. Selections include: tomato basil soup, house or Caesar salad; char-grilled steak; chimichurri steak; salmon; two sides; rustic bread; & dessert of cookies, cakes or mango tarts. In-house diners get half-off bottles of wine, too. Find locales statewide in Aliso Viejo, Brea, Fountain Valley, Irvine, Tustin.
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WATER GRILL: Book a Valentine’s date night with chef-curated, four-course menu, along with interactive photo booth & commemorative hand-poured candle ($135/person). Dinner highlights: oyster sampler or jumbo lump crab cake; clam chowder & roasted beet salad; plus such surf nâ turf entrĂŠes as filet mignon or lobster. Dessert array offered, too, including New York cheesecake & caramel bread pudding. Optional wine pairing: $50. Reservations. At 3300 Bristol St., Costa Mesa.
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WATERTABLE AT HYATT REGENCY HUNTINGTON BEACH: Cue the romance with three-course, Valentineâs Day dinner, featuring such options as hamachi crudo, pan-seared scallops, lamb chops, tiger prawns, elk loin, NY steak, tofu, fennel & squash, plus dessert selections of orange almond cake, Six Degrees of Chocolate Cake, berry torte & more. Reservations. At Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa, 21500 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach.
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It’s never too early to start planning for Valentine’s Day or just having a handy list of ideas for a romantic date with your sweetheart! We’ve gathered ideas with the help of an old OC Register post. We hope you’ll enjoy this list! Though we’ve taken steps to ensure these places are still operating, definitely do your due diligence before heading out! đ
1. Find a lookout point:Â There are plenty of romantic views around the region, from cliffs that overlook the glistening Pacific Ocean to quiet places where you can park your car and gaze over shining city lights.
Trails that sit above the ocean, such as Point Vicente in Palos Verdes, Corona del Marâs Inspiration Point, Crystal Cove State Beachâs cliffside trails or the Dana Point Headlands, offer ocean vistas for light daytime strolls. Hilltop Park in Signal Hill is known for its epic city views above the twinkling lights. Further inland, check out the Mt. Rubidoux Trail just west of downtown Riverside, which showcases mountain ranges and the city below, but note that parking and the trial close at dusk.
Several boat charters will offer sunset rides in the Dana Point Harbor this weekend for Valentineâs Day weekend. (File photo by Ed Crisostomo, Orange County Register)
2. Take a mini cruise: Southern California has several harbors and a vast coastline for special trips out on the water.
In Long Beach, check out Harbor Breeze Cruisesâ historical tour of the Los Angeles Harbor, a 45-minute narrated cruise that includes the Long Beach skyline, the Queen Mary and wildlife hanging out in the harbor like sea lions or, if youâre lucky, gray whales.
In Newport Beach, you can charter your own Duffy boat for a more intimate cruise, packing wine and cheese or grabbing a meal from a dockside restaurant at Lido Marina Village.
In Dana Point, stop by the harborâs âLove Wallâ mural for a photo op with your own love before heading out on a cocktail cruise on Saturday or Sunday with Aventura Sailing. Captain Daveâs Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari will host sunset safaris for sweethearts and also offers romantic private charters, or join Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching all weekend for cruises at sunset with a complimentary drink and treats.
Picturesque views of Avalon. (Photo by David Dickstein)
3. Catalina Express now boarding: If you want a longer excursion, Catalina Express has charters from San Pedro, Long Beach, and Dana Point. Cruise around the island on a golf cart to take in the sights, or take some hiking shoes to traverse the scenic trails.
A gondola cruises through the Naples Island canals on an excursion booked through Gondola Getaway, which offer couples romantic gondolier boat rides through the canals in Naples. Other gondolas offer rides in Redondo, Newport and Huntington Harbour, but space is limited on Valentineâs Day weekend. (File photo by Bill Alkofer, Contributing Photographer)
4. Romantic gondola ride: Taking a romantic trip to Italy might not be in the cards this year, but you can enjoy a gondola ride around Naples in Long Beach, Huntington Harbor, or Newport Beach in Orange County. Most companies offer Valentineâs Day specials, though some are already sold out, so you may need to be flexible and book an excursion on a different day.
The UCR Botanical Gardens can be a great, scenic way to enjoy an afternoon with a loved one. (File photo by Stan Lim, The Press-Enterprise/SCNG)
5. Visit a lush garden:Â Botanical gardens can be beautiful places to explore, filled with flora and fauna of the region. Check out UC Riversideâs impressive garden located in the foothills of the Box Springs Mountains. The 40 acres on the east side of the campus feature four miles of trails, or just soak in the beauty of its 3,500 plant species from one of the benches.
Smaller botanical gardens can be found throughout the region, such as the Niguel Botanical Garden in Laguna Niguel. In the South Bay, check out the Manhattan Beach Botanical Garden in Polliwog Park or South Coast Botanical Garden in Palos Verdes.
6. Movie under the stars: Southern California is home to a handful of still operating drive-ins, including in the City of Industry, Montclair, Paramount and Riverside, that are easily found with an internet search and there are pop-ups that bring outdoor screens to even more communities. Or watch a romantic movie from the comfort of your own car at The Roadium in Torrance!
A bundled up couple takes a walk on the trail by the Point Vicente Lighthouse in Rancho Palos Verdes. Walking trails near the ocean can be a great place for a romantic stroll. (Photo by Chuck Bennett, Contributing Photographer)
7. Soak in the beach scenes: Thereâs nothing more simple or romantic than a leisurely stroll on one of the regionâs idyllic piers. Grab a meal from a local restaurant and head to the Malibu, Huntington Beach or San Clemente piers and find a spot to sit while watching surfers ride waves. The regionâs other piers â from Hermosa Beach to Newport Beach and beyond â have eateries with a view or that can pack up food to go for a picnic in the sand.
Another beach-themed idea? Snuggle up with your loved one at a fire ring with the flames keeping you warm. Grab some Sâmores fixings, a few hot dogs and watch the sun go down at any Huntington Beach stretch, Bolsa Chica or Aliso Beach in South Laguna, which have rows of fire rings available. Another popular place is Corona del Mar, but make sure you bring charcoal to burn, wood is not allowed.
Tides will be low at around sunset this weekend, making for great exploration at areas like Royal Palms Beach in San Pedro. (Photo by Brittany Murray, Press-Telegram/SCNG)
8. Explore tidepools: Plan a great sunset stroll to explore sea creatures at local tidepools in Palos Verdes, San Pedro, Newport Beach, Corona Del Mar, Laguna Beach and Dana Point. You can look up the tide report at U.S. Harbors.
9. Shop an open-air market: Been limiting your time shopping inside? There are a few open air markets where you can stroll with your loved one to pick up something special, while at the same time supporting small businesses. Check out our Farmer’s Market post or our Shopping Center Guide to get ideas!
Snowplay at Alpine Slide At Magic Mountain recreation park is one way to enjoy the Southern California mountain town. (File photo by Rachel Luna, San Bernardino Sun/SCNG)
10. Snuggle in the snow: Get cozy with your loved one on a ski lift or maybe take a scenic chair lift ride, but make sure to bundle up. If you want a snowboard or ski getaway, be warned…with Presidentâs Day the following Monday, it’ll be busy. Snow Summit, Bear Mountain, and Snow Valley are the local ski resorts.
Enjoy a day of snow play at Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain recreation park in Big Bear Lake if you want to avoid the resort crowds, but still want a thrill. There is a bobsled experience and snow play areas where you can tube down the hill.
If youâre not into playing in the snow, but want to enjoy the mountain views, check out Mount Baldyâs scenic lift rides, which take people to the Top of the Notch Recreation Area. Itâs a 20-minute ride to 7,800 feet that has views all the way to the Pacific Ocean.
Lunar New Year is just around the corner! These Orange County kid/family friendly Lunar New Year events are listed by City and span between Jan 23 to Mar 12. Happy Lunar New Year!
LUNAR NEW YEAR EVENTS IN ANAHEIM
Celebrate Lunar New Year at Disney California Adventure Park January 23 through February 18, 2024
All Day
Disney California Adventure Park
Anaheim, CA
A multicultural celebration filled with auspicious wishes for health, luck and prosperity throughout the new year! Mulanâs Lunar New Year Procession, kid-friendly crafts and activities, and Hurry Home â A Lunar New Year Celebration pre-show. Ring in the Year of the Dragon with Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Mulan, Mushu and friends dressed in vibrant attire inspired by Lunar New Year. Stroll beneath strings of ornamental lanterns, make a wish for the new year.
LUNAR NEW YEAR EVENTS IN BREA
Lion Dance Performance Saturday, February 10, 2024
11am
Brea Library
1 Civic Center Circle, Brea, CA, CA
Join us for a festive Lion Dance performance to celebrate Lunar New Year. Stay after for fun crafts!
LUNAR NEW YEAR EVENTS IN COSTA MESA
O.C. Lantern Festival 2024 Saturday, March 2, 2024
11am
RenÊe and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall Samueli Theater
615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, CA ree Family event! Bring the entire family and join us for Pacific Symphonyâs annual Lantern Festival, celebrating the Year of the Dragon! The Lantern Festival, which can be traced back 2,000 years, marks the return of spring and the reunion of family. The act of lighting and appreciating lanterns is a way for people to let go of the burdens of their old selves and express their best wishes for themselves and their families for the future.
Lunar New Year with Pacific Symphony February, February 10, 2024
8pm
RenÊe and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall Samueli Theater
615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, CA
Join Pacific Symphonyâs annual festivities honoring the Lunar New Year! Celebrating the Year of the Dragon, this performance is sure to sell out once again as audiences from across our communities come together to feast on a colorful presentation of Eastern and Western music and dance.
42nd Annual UVSA Táşżt Festival February, 9 – 11, 2024
Times Vary
OC Fair & Event Center
88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, CA
Join Pacific Symphonyâs annual festivities honoring the Lunar New Year! Celebrating the Year of the Dragon, this performance is sure to sell out once again as audiences from across our communities come together to feast on a colorful presentation of Eastern and Western music and dance.
LUNAR NEW YEAR EVENTS IN FOUNTAIN VALLEY
Teen Paper Lantern Workshop
Tuesday, February 6, 2024
4pm
Fountain Valley Library
17635 Los Alamos, Fountain Valley, CA
Itâs the year of the Dragon! Celebrate the Lunar New Year by making a dragon head made out of felt! All supplies will be provided.
Family Craft Night – Felt Dragon Head
Tuesday, February 13, 2024
4 – 6pm
Fountain Valley Library
17635 Los Alamos, Fountain Valley, CA
It’s the Year of the Dragon! Join us in making paper lanterns to celebrate the Lunar New Year.
LUNAR NEW YEAR EVENTS IN GARDEN GROVE
Lunar New Year Festival 2024
Saturday, February 10, 2024
1 – 10pm
SteelCraft Garden Grove
12900 South Euclid Street Garden Grove, CA
Join us for pop-up shops, lion dancers, live music and more!
Lunar New Year Celebration Tuesday, January 30, 2024
4pm
Garden Grove Tibor Rubin Library
11962 Bailey Street, Garden Grove, CA
Join us for a Lunar New Year themed craft, activity and snacks. Fun for the whole family!
Táşżt Themed Storytime Tuesday, February 6, 2024
10:30am
Garden Grove Chapman Library
9182 Chapman Avenue, Garden Grove, CA
Join us for a special dragon themed storytime to celebrate Lunar New Year! Dragon plushie craft to follow. Registration required, starting January 22.
LUNAR NEW YEAR EVENTS IN HUNTINGTON BEACH
Lunar New Year Maker Market Saturday, February 3, 2024
12 – 5pm
Bella Terra
7777 Edinger Avenue, Huntington Beach, CA Join us as we celebrate Lunar New Year with a Maker Market! 30+ small business vendors, Chinese musical performance by Galaxy Arts Center, Cultural Characters, and Kids Games and Activities.
LUNAR NEW YEAR EVENTS IN IRVINE
Lunar New Year Celebration Tuesday, February 6, 2024
4:30pm
Irvine University Park Library 4512 Sandburg Way, Irvine, CA
Celebrate the Year of the Dragon with fun Lunar New Year crafts and activities.
Lunar New Year Fest Saturday, February 17, 2024
2:30 – 4pm
Irvine University Park Library
4512 Sandburg Way, Irvine, CA
Celebrate the Year of the Dragon with fun games and prizes and an exciting performance at 3pm. No registration required. Free for the whole family!
Celebrate Lunar New Year at Pretend City February 10 & 11, 2024
11am – 2:30pm
Pretend City
29 Hubble, Irvine, CA
Celebrating the beginning of spring into the New Year. At 11am, enjoy a Kishin Daiko Drummers performance that embodies the translation of Kishin which is energy, spirit, and heart. At 2:30pm, Ane Thanh Lion Dance will perform traditional lion dancing with acrobatics and a live instrumental troupe to bring good luck into the New Year.
Lion Dancers Saturday, February 24, 2024
2:30pm
Laguna Niguel Library
30341 Crown Valley Pkwy, Laguna Niguel, CA
Please join us for a Chinese Lion Dance performance presented by the Southern California Youth Cultural Association. Fun for the whole family!
LUNAR NEW YEAR EVENTS IN LA HABRA
Lunar New Year Performance Saturday, January 27, 2024
2pm
La Habra Library
221 East La Habra Blvd., La Habra, CA
Enjoy a themed craft, snacks and a performance by the Southern California Youth Dragon and Lion Dance Team.
LUNAR NEW YEAR EVENTS IN LA PALMA
Lunar New Year Celebration Thursday, February 8, 2024
4pm
La Palma Library
7842 Walker Street, La Palma, CA
Let’s celebrate Lunar New Year with stories, lucky treats and fun crafts! Fun for the whole family!
LUNAR NEW YEAR EVENTS IN SAN CLEMENTE
D. Yoder Family Sundays: Lunar New Year Sunday, February 4, 2024
10am – 2pm
Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens
415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, CA
Enjoy free admission to Casa Romantica and celebrate the year of the Dragon in the upcoming Lunar New Year! Featuring lucky envelopes with fortunes (some including prizes!), and a performance with lion dancers with a martial arts demonstration.
Lunar New Year Celebration Saturday, February 10, 2024
11am – 2pm
Outlets at San Clemente
101 W Avenida Vista Hermosa, San Clemente, CA
Details to follow
LUNAR NEW YEAR EVENTS IN SANTA ANA
Táşżt (Lunar New Year) Festival Saturday, February 3, 2024
2 – 7pm
Centennial Park
2002 North Main Street, Santa Ana, CA
The City of Santa Ana will be holding its first ever Santa Ana Tết (Lunar New Year) Festival. Everyone is invited to join us for a day full of celebrating the Year of the Dragon. This event will be family-friendly and open to all residents and non-residents. Look forward to live entertainment, dancing, vendors, inflatables, and fireworks!
Chinese New Year Festival Sunday, February 4, 2024
11am – 3pm
Bowers Museum
2002 North Main Street, Santa Ana, CA
Celebrate the Year of the Dragon with a lively Chinese New Year Festival! Enjoy free art activities, face painting, and exhilarating dance and music performances. Join us in welcoming a year of strength, confidence, and luck!
Lunar New Year Celebration Saturday, February 17, 2024
12 – 2pm
MainPlace Mall
2800 N Main Street, Santa Ana, CA
Join us as we celebrate the Lunar New Year and the Year of the Dragon! We’ll have activities for the whole family!
LUNAR NEW YEAR EVENTS IN SILVERADO
Lunar New Year Celebration in Silverado Saturday, February 3, 2024
11:30am
Library of the Canyons
7531 E. Santiago Canyon Road, Silverado, CAÂ
Join us as we celebrate the Lunar New Year with a Lion Dance followed by a special lantern craft. Fun for the whole family!
LUNAR NEW YEAR EVENTS IN VILLA PARK
Villa Park Lunar New Year Celebration Saturday, February 10, 2024
10am – 2pm
Villa Park Town Center
17767 â 17871 Santiago Blvd., Villa Park, CA
Visitors can enjoy a free festive event with a photo booth with props, red envelopes with surprises and student performances.
LUNAR NEW YEAR EVENTS IN WESTMINSTER
Tết Celebration at the Westminster Library Saturday, February 3, 2024
10am
Westminster Library
8180 13th Street, Westminster, CA
Join us for cultural performances, a children’s craft and a chance to win a prize! Traditional dress encouraged!
Westminster Tet Parade Sunday, February 10, 2024
8:30am
The City of Westminster
Bolsa Avenue and Magnolia Street, Westminster, CA
The Tet Parade is a grandiose event that has celebrated the Lunar New Year in Little Saigon for over two decades. Every year Vietnamese communities across the globe tune in to watch the event broadcasted by local TV stations and social media platforms. The Tet Parade features floats, marching bands, lion dances, color guards, veterans and youth organizations, martial arts, multi-cultural attires, elected officials, scout organizations, community organizations, and an array of local and international businesses.
LUNAR NEW YEAR EVENTS IN YORBA LINDA
Lunar New Year at the Nixon Library Monday, February 12, 2024
5 – 8pm
Richard Nixon Library & Museum
18001 Yorba Linda Blvd., Yorba Linda, CA
2024 is the year of the Dragon! Celebrate family, friends and fortune with cultural performances at the Nixon Library.
Thanks!
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 Grab a donut box and fill it with fresh veggies for a funny fake-out!
 but itâs a tried a true April Foolsâ Day idea!
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