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O.C. HIGHLIGHTS

Southern California Highlights

Southern California has many amenities to which to explore and create many wonder memories.

Nightspots

Costa Mesa Nightlife - Great nights alive!  The area of Triangle square is home to one of the top rated nightclubs in the country -  Sutra.  A variety of other large themed bars are within walking distance of each other.  Top names to keep in mind include the Goathill Tavern, Little Night, Chronic Cantina, Games Plus, The Helm, and The Pierce Street Annex.  Casual atmospheres with friendly people. 

For a more refined experience, check out the area of South Coast Plaza with the Performing Arts Center.  Top restaurant in this area is Chat Noir.  Top Club - The Shark Club.

Newport Peninsula Nightlife - The beaches, restaurants, and bars of Newport will take you away to bliss.  This is a regional attraction, with seafood restaurants and lively bars and entertainment.  Priority here is more in looking good and being seen.  Places not to miss include Sharkeys, 21 Ocean Front, Joes Crab Shack, Billies at the Beach, Rusty Pelican, Villa Nova, Cassidys, Class of 47, Balboa Saloon, Rudys, Blue Beet, Malarkeys, and others  all within walking distance or a short ride in a cab of each other.

Downtown HB Nightlife-  Combine Newport, Costa Mesa, and the reputation of "Surf City" to get the Main Surf Street USA.  A younger and more brash crowd hang out downtown.  All establishments are within walking distance of the pier, shops, and mostly casual beach bars.  Top spots include Sharkeys, TunaTown, Bistro 301, HB Brewing Company, Hurricanes, Crabbys Boathouse, Freds Cantina, Dukes, Perqs and Gallaghers.

Fullerton Nightlife - Downtown fullerton has transformed into one of the hottest night spots in the county.  The transformation from bedroom community to vibrant downtown is one of the best kept secrets in the county.  The proximity of Disneyland, Cal State Fullerton, and a transportation center ensures a diverse mix of people.  Enjoy up to 40 bars and restaurants in the downtown district within walking distance of each other.

Disney

Live Disney dreams like never before during The Year of a Million Dreams, a first-of-its-kind event, celebrating your dreams and the dream-making magic Disney Cast Members create every day.

Knott's Berry Farm

What was once an actual berry farm is now 160 acres of world class rides, unique family shows and one of a kind attractions. At America's favorite theme park, experience GhostRider the world's best wooden roller coaster, Supreme Scream, 30-stories up, 3 seconds down and the high-octane thrill of Xcelerator, rated the world's best launch coaster, sending riders 0-80 in 2.3 seconds. For a different type of thrill, stroll on over to Camp Snoopy, home to the beloved PEANUTS gang.

Irvine Spectrum

Irvine Spectrum Center is one of Southern California’s most popular shopping and dining destinations, visited by nearly 11 million people each year.

The Block

The Block at Orange features the best names in manufacturers’ and retail outlets including Old Navy, Ann Taylor Factory Store, OFF 5th Saks Fifth Avenue Outlet as well as high quality entertainment venues including AMC 30 Theatres, Dave & Buster's and Lucky Strike Lanes and various themed restaurants.

Honda Center

As Southern California's premier entertainment and sports venue, Honda Center hosts a variety of first-class events each year including concerts, sporting events and family shows. The 650,000-square-foot arena is home to the NHL's Anaheim Ducks and the prestigious John R. Wooden Classic. Annual events include Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, the Disney on Ice and the Harlem Globetrotters.

Angeles Stadium

Home of the Angeles.  Renovations to Anaheim Stadium began Oct. 1, 1996, reverting the 30-year old structure back to a baseball-only facility. On Sept. 15, 1997, the renovated stadium's new name was announced: Edison International Field of Anaheim. On Dec. 29, 2003, the Angels announced the stadium would be renamed Angel Stadium of Anaheim.

 

     

OCTAP #14

ArfarePlanet
Holidays at the Disneyland® Resort

Disneyland Resort, Disneyland Hotel
1150 W. Magic Way
Anaheim, CA 92802
Friday, November 21, 2008  to
Sunday, January 04, 2009

Visit www.disneyland.com for details
Map It

  Date   Event   Location

8/4/2008
to
1/4/2009
Masters of the Night: The True Story of Bats
This exhibition dispels popular misconceptions about bats, describes their ecological importance and gives visitors an appreciation of the true wonders of the bat world. Special effects, multi-sensory ...
Categories: Family Fun, Special Events
Discovery Science Center
2500 N. Main Street
Santa Ana, CA 92705
714/542.2823
Map It

10/1/2008
to
5/31/2009
Anaheim Ducks NHL Hockey
Experience the excitement of Southern California hockey as the Ducks take flight on the ice and defend their title . Visit www.mightyducks.com for season schedule, game times and more.
Categories: Annual Events, Sports & Outdoor
Honda Center
2695 East Katella Avenue
Anaheim, CA 92806
714/740.2400
Map It

11/1/2008
to
1/19/2009
Irvine Spectrum Center Holiday Ice Rink
Irvine Spectrum Center will be transformed into a winter wonderland when the festive outdoor holiday ice rink returns every day from Nov. 1 through Jan. 19, 2009. Skate sessions are one hour ...
Categories: Annual Events, Family Fun, Holiday/Seasonal Events, Special Events, Sports & Outdoor
Irvine Spectrum Center
71 Fortune Dr.
Irvine, CA 92618
949/720.2579
Map It

11/8/2008
to
4/19/2009
Giant Paintball Park
Giant Paintball Park in Costa Mesa, California has re-opened their gates to the public for another exciting season. Giant ...
Categories: Sports & Outdoor

OC Fair & Event Center - Grandstand Arena
88 Fair Drive
Costa Mesa, CA 92626

(562) 867-9600

11/20/2008
to
5/31/2009
Annual Gray Whale Watching
Newport Landing Whale Watching has served southern California for over 20 years providing whale watching and dolphin cruises. Year around cruises view many varieties of whales including the ...
Categories: Family Fun, Sports & Outdoor

Newport Landing
309 Palm Suite A
Balboa, CA 92661

(949) 675-0551

11/21/2008
to
1/4/2009
Holidays at the Disneyland® Resort
Beginning Nov. 21 through Jan. 4, Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure parks transform into alluring holiday wonderlands featuring spectacular entertainment, remarkable decorations, ...
Categories: Annual Events, Family Fun, Holiday/Seasonal Events, Entertainment & Nightlife, Special Events

Disneyland Resort, Disneyland Hotel
1150 W. Magic Way
Anaheim, CA 92802

714/778.6600
Map It

11/22/2008
to
12/14/2008
Sawdust Winter Fantasy
The Winter Fantasy runs four consecutive weekends beginning November 22, 2008 and features unique handcrafted gift items created ...
Categories: Annual Events, Family Fun, Holiday/Seasonal Events, Visual Arts & Exhibits
Laguna Canyon
935 Laguna Canyon Road
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
949/494-3030
Map It

11/24/2008
to
1/4/2009
The Science of Gingerbread
Inside the kitchen, much more is going on than pouring and mixing – it’s science at work! How many gumdrops can a frosted cookie hold? Why do some recipes call for baking powder instead of baking ...
Categories: Family Fun, Special Events
Discovery Science Center
2500 N. Main Street
Santa Ana, CA 92705
714/542.2823

11/25/2008
to
4/12/2009
Anaheim Arsenal Basketball
Come see the future stars of the NBA at a bargain price! New Head Coach Sam Vincent leads Anaheim's home team in exciting NBA Development League action at the newly renovated Anaheim Convention ...
Categories: Annual Events, Sports & Outdoor
The Arena at Anaheim Convention Center
800 W Katella Ave.
Anaheim, CA 92802
714/635-BALL
Map It

11/27/2008
to
12/31/2008
Knott's Merry Farm presents "A Charlie Brown Christmas"
Knott's Berry Farm will magically transform into Knott's Merry Farm this holiday season as they present "A Charlie Brown Christmas" with seasonal entertainment, spectacular decorations and a ...
Categories: Annual Events, Family Fun, Holiday/Seasonal Events, Special Events

Knott's Berry Farm Theme Park
8039 Beach Blvd.
Buena Park, CA 90620

714/220.5200
Map It

11/28/2008
to
4/16/2009
Whale Watching Excursions
Ahoy! Thar she blows! View the spectacular migration of hundreds of California gray whales from cold, arctic seas to the warm waters of Southern California and Baja.
Categories: Annual Events, Family Fun

Dana Wharf
34675 Golden Lantern
Dana Point, CA 92629

Reservations, 800/590-9994
Private Charters, 949/496.5794 ext. 7
Map It

11/28/2008
to
12/31/2008
SeaWorld's Holiday Celebration
Tis' the season to celebrate - SeaWorld is all decked out for the holidays. Bring your family to enjoy live music and carolers in ...
Categories: Family Fun, Holiday/Seasonal Events

SeaWorld Adventure Park San Diego
500 SeaWorld Dr.
San Diego, CA 92109

619/226.3845
Map It

11/28/2008
to
12/23/2008
Christmas Train at Irvine Park
It’s the season, once again for Irvine Park Railroad’s annual Christmas Train. Come with family and friends and take this enchanting night ride through historic Irvine Regional Park to meet ...
Categories: Annual Events, Family Fun, Holiday/Seasonal Events

Irvine Park
1 Irvine Park Rd
Orange, CA 92869
714/997-3968

12/1/2008
LEGOLAND® Christmas Tree Lighting
Only at LEGOLAND® California can you see the world’s largest LEGO® Christmas tree light up the night sky delighting visitors young and old at a special ceremony featuring a surprise celebrity ...
Categories: Annual Events, Family Fun, Holiday/Seasonal Events, Special Events
LEGOLAND® California
One LEGOLAND Drive
Carlsbad, CA 92008
760/918.LEGO (5346)
Map It

12/4/2008
to
12/6/2008
Sugar Plum Festival's "Arts and Crafts" Show
Gifts to Warm the Heart...Accessories that Make a Home! Come and enjoy a unique shopping adventure. Our festivals are seasonal and held in building 10. Over 175 artists selling Holiday Decorations* ...
Categories: Holiday/Seasonal Events

OC Fair & Event Center
88 Fair Drive
Costa Mesa, CA 92626

(562) 598-0857

12/5/2008
to
12/6/2008
Shoreline Dog Fanciers Assoc. All-Breed Dog Show
Dog Exhibition, show and competition. Public education and vendors.
Categories: Annual Events

OC Fair & Event Center
88 Fair Drive
Costa Mesa, CA 92626

(949)380-0885
12/5/2008
to
12/13/2008
34th Annual Dana Point Harbor Boat Parade of Lights
The 34th Annual Boat Parade of Lights sails into the Harbor on December 5th & 6th, 12th & 13th at 7:30pm and promises to light up your holiday season. The theme this year is “SANTA’S SEALIFE ...
Categories: Annual Events, Culture & History, Family Fun, Holiday/Seasonal Events, Special Events

Dana Point Harbor
34675 Golden Lantern
Dana Point, CA 92629

949-923-2255
12/6/2008
to
12/31/2008
Grinchmas at Universal Studios Hollywood
A traditional white Christmas and an encounter with the not-so-traditional green Grinch await guests at Universal Studios Hollywood as The Entertainment Capital of L.A. prepares to celebrate ...
Categories: Holiday/Seasonal Events, Special Events

Universal Studios Hollywood
100 Universal City Plaza, B5511-5
Universal City, CA 91608

800/UNIVERSAL
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12/7/2008
to
12/8/2008
Malibu Kennel Club All-Breed Dog Show
Dog exhibition, show and competition. Public education and vendors.
Categories: Special Events

OC Fair & Event Center
88 Fair Drive
Costa Mesa, CA 92626


12/10/2008
15th Annual Queen Mary Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony
Join us aboard the ship as we welcome the holiday season and celebrate the Queen Mary's 15th Annual Tree-Lighting Ceremony.

-The ...
Categories: Annual Events, Holiday/Seasonal Events, Special Events
The Queen Mary
1126 Queens Highway
Long Beach, CA 90802-6390
562/435.3511
Map It

12/11/2008
to
12/14/2008
Compañía Flamenco José Porcel
The most joyous of dance forms comes to vibrant life on the stage of Segerstrom Hall when José Porcel brings his renowned company to the Center. Each performance radiates vitality, passion, ...
Categories: Holiday/Seasonal Events, Performing Arts
Orange County Performing Arts Center
600 Town Center Drive
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
714/556.2787
Map It

12/12/2008
to
12/13/2008
Jazz Christmas with New York Voices
The acclaimed ensemble is certain to jazz up your holiday when they bring their sophisticated style and unique harmonies to Samueli Theater with their treasure trove of yuletide songs.
Categories: Concerts, Holiday/Seasonal Events
Orange County Performing Arts Center
600 Town Center Drive
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
714/556.2787
Map It

12/12/2008
to
12/14/2008
GEM FAIRE
Gem Faire has made special efforts in making each Gem Faire a community event! All Gem & Bead Faires are open to the public. Classes & demonstrations are offered at every Bead Faire and most ...
Categories: Special Events

OC Fair & Event Center
88 Fair Drive
Costa Mesa, CA 92626

(503) 252-8300

12/12/2008
to
12/29/2008
Newport Beach Christmas Cruises
Newport Landing has 5 ships that offer 2 cruises nightly during the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade. The first cruise departs at 5:45 pm and the second cruise departs at 8:00 pm. Each cruise ...
Categories: Annual Events, Family Fun, Holiday/Seasonal Events, Special Events

Newport Landing
309 Palm Suite A
Newport Beach, CA 92661

(949) 675-0551

12/13/2008
15th Annual John R. Wooden Classic
The UCLA Bruins will make their way to Anaheim to headline the 15th annual John R. Wooden Classic college basketball doubleheader on December 13th at Honda Center. UCLA, coming off three straight ...
Categories: Annual Events, Family Fun, Sports & Outdoor
Honda Center
2695 E. Katella Ave.
Anaheim, CA 92806
714/704.2400
Map It

12/16/2008
to
12/21/2008
CATS
There is no better way to introduce one to the wonders of live theater than with the magic, the mystery, the memory of Cats. Featuring 20 of A.L. Webber’s timeless melodies, Cats is the winner ...
Categories: Family Fun, Holiday/Seasonal Events, Performing Arts
Orange County Performing Arts Center
600 Town Center Drive
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
714/556.2787
Map It

12/17/2008
to
12/21/2008
100th Annual Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade
Join over a million viewers as you watch beautifully decorated yachts, boats, kayaks and canoes sail along the harbor in the 100th Annual Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade. Hosted by the Commodores ...
Categories: Annual Events, Family Fun, Holiday/Seasonal Events, Special Events
Newport Harbor
Newport Beach, CA 92661
949/729.4400

12/17/2008
Parade of Lights Yacht Cruise
Pacific Avalon Yacht Charters offers you the opportunity to participate in the merriment by chartering one of our yachts during the opening night of the 100th Annual Newport Beach Parade of ...
Categories: Culture & History, Family Fun, Holiday/Seasonal Events, Entertainment & Nightlife, Special Events
Pacific Avalon Yacht Charters
2901 W. Coast Hwy, Ste. 160
Newport Beach, CA 92663
949/673.8545
Map It

12/19/2008
Sarah Brightman in Concert
Sarah Brightman, the world’s biggest selling soprano of all time, who recently captivated the world with her stunning performance at the opening ceremony of the Beijing 2008 World Olympics, ...
Categories: Concerts
Honda Center
2695 E. Katella Ave.
Anaheim, CA 92806
714/704.2400
Map It

12/20/2008
to
12/31/2008
LEGOLAND® Tenth Annual Holiday Block Party
The entire theme park is transformed into a holiday wonderland featuring vibrant holiday decorations, savory meals and jolly sounds of the season. Children may also pose with a special life-size ...
Categories: Annual Events, Holiday/Seasonal Events, Entertainment & Nightlife