Kidsguide Holiday Guide 2015

KIDSGUIDE MORE ON KIDSGUIDEMAGAZINE.COM

WINTER 2015

Holiday Guide

WIN pg. 49

Winter Camps Attractions Indoor Playgrounds

PLUS Snow Play Ice Skating Holiday Shows

450+ Ideas for Winter-Break Fun

速

Using The Holiday Guide The 2015 Holiday Guide is filled with tons of winter-break fun! Here’s how it works:

fall/winter issue of Kidsguide available at libraries and kid-friendly retailers.

It has thousands of additional ideas!

1) When looking for something to do on a particular day, first check the individual dates for what’s happening—pages 12-48. 2) Then look at the “Monthlong Events” found on pages 4-10, and the specialty sections listed below. 3) Don’t miss the advertisers! They offer activities and services all month long. Be sure to tell them, “I saw you in Kidsguide.” 4) Sign up on our website for The Buzzz. This newsletter brings events directly to your inbox. 5) Finally, pick up a free copy of the 2015/16

Important: Be sure to confirm dates and times before going to any activity—things can change. Plan ahead—some activities require reservations.

Monthlong Events................................................................4-10 Nutcracker Performances.........................................................6 Indoor Playgrounds.................................................................10 Daily Events.......................................................................12-48 Snow Days..............................................................................16 Tubing & Sledding...................................................................22 Ice Skating.........................................................................26-27 Attractions..........................................................................34-35 Holiday Performances.......................................................38-39 Winter Camps....................................................................42-43 Spotlight on Kid-Friendly Businesses .............................46-47

PUBLISHER • Liz Davis EDITORS • Pam Chotiswatdi, Audrey Eftychiou AD SALES • Tiffany Salter CONTACT: 562.799.0140 info@kidsguidemagazine.com Legal stuff: “Kidsguide® Copyright 2015 Liz Davis. All rights reserved. No portion of this magazine may be used for a derivative work, reproduced or copied—mechanically, electronically, or by any other means, including photocopying—distributed, or displayed without prior written permission of the publisher. The materials herein are provided on an “as is” basis and the publisher of this magazine, KIDSGUIDE, Inc., expressly disclaims all warranties, including without limitation the warranties of currentness, correctness, completeness, merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, non infringement of intellectual property, and freedom from errors. KIDSGUIDE, Inc. assumes no liability or responsibility for any loss or injury arising out of errors, omissions, uses, or participation as a result of publication of all magazine editions to the fullest extent permitted by law. KIDSGUIDE, Inc. is not in any way recommending or endorsing any program, business, activity, or advertiser listed within this magazine. Names, addresses, fees, descriptions, and services listed in KIDSGUIDE are subject to change. We sincerely request that any errors be brought to the publisher’s attention so that they may be corrected in future editions.”

kidsguidemagazine.com • Be sure to sign up on our website for The Buzzz for more fun stuff to do!

2 kidsguide holiday guide 2015

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Monthlong Events Adventure to Santa DreamPlace at South Bay Galleria in Redondo Beach Through December 24: DreamPlace takes families on a magical sleigh ride to the North Pole with Shrek and his friends. A virtual sleigh ride transports guests to see Santa Claus as well as interactive activities for children and parents to enjoy along the way. Daily, visit website to reserve a day and time. Photo packages, $35-75. www.dreamplaceexperience.com

your kids are bobbing around the dodgeball court or hopping into the foam pit, they will have a blast! Call for admission prices. Buena Park, Tuesday. Laguna Hills, Wednesday and Thursday. Redlands, Monday and Thursday. Call for times. Prices and hours subject to change without notice.

Anaheim’s Farmers Park Market Sundays: Shop from certified growers, artisan foods and handmade crafts. Music most Sundays. 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Free admission. 400 S. Anaheim Blvd. www.downtownanaheim.com/farmersparkmarket

Billy Beez Date Night Fridays: Parents enjoy the Anaheim Garden Walk, while kids (4-12) have supervised fun. Plus, parents show their Billy Beez receipt at neighboring restaurants for discounts. Friday, call for hours and pricing (2½ hours includes one free drink and activities). 400 W. Disney Way, Anaheim. (657) 207-4841. www.us.billybeez.com

Aquarium of the Pacific Free Shark Lagoon Nights December 4, 11, 18 and January 1: Get up close with the ocean’s ultimate predators. Touch bonnethead, bamboo and epaulette sharks and see large sharks on display, including the sand tiger. Learn about sharks, shop, purchase drinks and snacks, and enjoy live music.

Fridays, 6-9 p.m. Free. 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach.

(562) 590-3100. www.aquariumofthepacific.org

Brainstorm Minecraft Night for Kids Date Night for Parents Fridays: Parents drop off the kids and enjoy a night out on their own. Three hours of awesome games on the custom Brainstorm server and game maps with favorite instructors. Pizza and drinks included.

Friday, 6:30-930 p.m. $35. Register online. 5430 Trabuco Road, Ste. 150, Irvine. (949) 607-8676. www.brainstormedu.com/register.php

Back Bay Science Community Day Sundays: Tour the facility, including the loop trail and marine life. Plus, hands-on activities to help kids learn more about the ocean. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Free. 600 Shellmaker Island, Newport Beach. www.backbaysciencecenter.org/community-day

California Science Center’s Journey to Space Exhibit Daily: Explore living and working in space and learn about NASA’s more distant missions. Take a turn managing the energy of a simulated orbiting space station, operate a robotic arm, and find out how astronauts eat, sleep and even go to the bathroom in space. Complete your space experience by seeing “Journey to Space 3D” on the center’s seven-story IMAX screen! Timed tickets available, 10 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Exhibit only: adults, $9.75; youth (13-17), $8.25; kids (4-12), $6.25. Exhibit and IMAX movie: adults, $16.75; youth (13-17), $13.50; kids (4-12), $10.50. 700 Exposition Park, Los Angeles. (213) 744-2019. www.californiasciencecenter.org

• Big Air Cosmic Nights Buena Park, 8320 On The Mall, (844) 550-JUMP; Laguna Hills, 23251 Avenida de la Carlota, (949) 305-9788; and Redlands, 1101 California St., (909) 335-7275. www.bigairusa.com. See ad on page 2.

Cosmic Nights: They turn down the lights, turn up the music and fire up the lasers and strobes. Enjoy access to all the attractions at the park. The price of admission covers the entire duration of Cosmic Nights. Friday and Saturday: Buena Park and Redlands, 8-11 p.m.; and Laguna Hills, 8:30-11 p.m.

Prices and hours subject to change without notice.

Special Needs Day: Join Big Air for one of their Special Needs Days! Guests will have a blast exploring trampolines and other attractions. Parents, siblings, aides, family and friends are all welcome to join in on the fun! $7 per jumper for up to two hours with one caregiver/therapist for free. Additional family members also jump for $7. This is a blend-in event during regular operating hours. Laguna Hills, every Tuesday, 3-9 p.m. Buena Park, December 8; 3-9 p.m. Prices and hours subject to change without notice.

Toddler Time: A special time just for little ones to jump around at their own pace without older kids.

In addition to opening the attractions, they provide extra balls and toys for the little kiddos. So whether 4 kidsguide holiday guide 2015

Cabrillo Marine Aquarium Weekend Tidepools December 12, 13, 23, 26 and 27: Attend an informative slide show in the John M. Olguin Auditorium, then come along on the naturalist-led ramble on the rocks to see animals in their natural habitat. Outdoor clothing and sneakers advised. Young children must be accompanied by adults. Saturday, December 12, 2:30-4 p.m.; Sunday, December 13, 3-4:30 p.m., en Español 2:30-4 p.m.; Wednesday, December 23, Family Time Tidepool Walk, 2:30-4 p.m.; Saturday, December 26, 2:30-4 p.m.; and Sunday, December 27, sunset walk, 3-4:30 p.m. Free. 3720 Stephen M. White Drive, San Pedro.

(310) 548-7562. www.cabrillomarineaquarium.org Children’s Museum at La Habra Little Picassos Wednesdays: Join the museum for a paint date for lots of creative play. There are easels, washable paints,

brushes and paint smocks available for use. 11 a.m. 3 p.m. Included in paid admission. 301 S. Euclid St., La Habra. (562) 383-4236. www.lhcm.org Chuck Jones Center for Creativity Saturdays: A great place for kids to express themselves creatively. Good for all ages (must be accompanied by an adult). Saturdays, 12:30-3:30 p.m.

Free, but a nominal donation is suggested to help cover the cost of materials. 3321 Hyland Ave., Costa Mesa. (949) 660-7793. www.chuckjonescenter.org Cirque du Soleil Kurios in Los Angeles December 10 - February 7: Step into the curio cabinet of an ambitious inventor who defies the laws of time, space and dimension in order to reinvent everything around him. Dodger Stadium, Los Angeles. $56+, VIP tickets and back-stage tours are also available. www.cirquedusoleil.com • Discovery Cube Orange County 2500 N. Main St., Santa Ana. (714) 542-2823. www.discoverycube.org/oc. See ad on page 5.

Science of Gingerbread - November 27 - January 3: Inside the kitchen, much more is going on than pouring and mixing—it’s science at work! Discovery Cube Orange County’s Science of Gingerbread exhibition features hands-on kitchen science activities, decorating demonstrations and award-winning gingerbread houses on display.

Winter Wonderfest - December 12-13 and December 19 - January 3: 100 tons of snow has come to Orange County with themed attractions and real science at Discovery Cube OC! Learn the science behind sledding down ice ramps and how snowflakes are formed, then put your knowledge to action with real sledding and snowflake making. Plus, engineer a candy car racer and compete in the Gingerbread Derby.

Hot Wheels Race To Win - Through January 3: Visit the exhibit to become part of a race team and build and test the fastest speed machines on the planet! Take a behind-the-scenes look at the thrilling world of racing and explore the scientific process for designing fast cars, compete in the Pit Stop Challenge, see and learn about real car parts, and more! Don’t miss the opportunity to push the limits of your imagination and learn about the world of racing in this interactive exhibit.

• Discovery Cube Los Angeles Curious George Let’s Get Curious Through January 3: Experience the insatiable curiosity of Curious George in this interactive exhibit that will lead you on a fun and educational adventure! Help George climb a building, sort and weigh fruits and vegetables at the produce stand, explore the control station on George’s space ship and more. Daily. Included with admission. 11800 Foothill Blvd., Los Angeles. (818) 890-1761. www.discoverycube.org/la lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

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kidsguide holiday guide 2015 5

Nutcracker

Playground before each show, 9 a.m. and 10 a.m. $25-50. 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa. (714) 755-5799. www.pacificsymphony.org

The original story was written by E.T.A. Hoffmann in 1816. Alexandre Dumas rewrote the story to appeal to children in 1847. By 1892, choreographer Marius Petipa asked Tchaikovsky to write music for the ballet. In various interpretations, the story is of a young girl who receives a nutcracker as a Christmas present.

The Nutcracker comes to life as they journey to the Land of Sweets.

The Nutcracker by the Los Angeles Ballet December 5-27: December 5-6, Alex Theater, Glendale; December 8-9, Valley Performing Arts Center, Northridge; December 12-13, Dolby Theater, Hollywood; December 18-20, Royce Hall, UCLA; and December 26-27, Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center. www.losangelesballet.org

• Long Beach Ballet Presents “The Nutcracker” December 12-13 and 19-20: The 33rd anniversary of Southern California’s most popular production of “The Nutcracker.” The Long Beach Ballet will once again present its trade-mark flying sleigh, amazing pyrotechnics, magical theatrical effects, full symphony orchestra and guest appearances by world-class ballet stars. “Crammed with special effects, the familiar Long Beach Ballet version of ‘The Nutcracker’ has nearly everything money can buy. Opulent, family-oriented holiday entertainment, seek no further!” Lewis Segal, Los Angeles Times. Performances held: Saturday, 2 and 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, 2 p.m. $31-68; VIP tickets, $98.

Group discounts are available. Long Beach Terrace Theater, 300 E. Ocean Blvd., Long Beach. (877) 852-3177. www.longbeachnutcracker.com. See ad on page 7.

The Nutcracker by Bob Baker Marionette in LA Through January 10: Saturday and Sunday, 2:30 p.m. Weekdays, 10:30 a.m. shows often offered, visit their website for schedule. Reservations and ticket purchase available online, $20 per person.

1345 W. First St., Los Angeles. (213) 250-9995. www.bobbakermarionettes.com Nutcracker for Kids in Costa Mesa December 5: Saturday, 10 and 11:30 a.m. Musical

The Nutcracker in Canoga Park December 6-7 and 13-14: Saturday, 2 and 7 p.m.; and Sunday, 2 p.m. Adults, $25; kids (3-12), $18.

Madrid Theatre, 21622 Sherman Way, Canoga Park.

(818) 347-9938. www.californiadanceacademy.com The Nutcracker in Huntington Beach December 5-6 and 12-13: Saturday, 2 p.m. (December 12 only) and 7 p.m.; and Sunday, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. (December 6 only). $20-30. Huntington Beach High School, 1905 Main St., Huntington Beach. (714) 902-9423. www.balletetudes.com American Ballet Theatre The Nutcracker at Segerstrom Center for the Arts December 10-20: A new Southern California tradition begins with American Ballet Theatre’s newest Nutcracker, created by artist in residence Alexei Ratmansky and featuring sets and costumes from Richard Hudson (Broadway’s Lion King). A cast of more than 100 performers including students from their own ABT William J. Gillespie School. Visit their website for show day, times and ticket prices and purchase. 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa. (714) 556-2787. www.scfta.org

for ticket purchase. 42051 Main St., Temecula. (866) 653-8696. www.temeculatheater.org The Nutcracker in Rancho Cucamonga December 18-20: Friday, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, 2 p.m. $24-46. Lewis Family Playhouse, 12505 Cultural Center Drive, Rancho Cucamonga. www.lewisfamilyplayhouse.com The Hot Chocolate Nutcracker in Los Angeles December 18-19: Friday, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. $34-125. Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, 135 N. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. (213) 9727211. www.musiccenter.org/hotchocolate The Nutcracker by the Anaheim Ballet December 19: Journey to Candyland with the traditional Christmas tale performed by the Anaheim Ballet. Saturday, 2 and 7 p.m. $22-45. City National Grove of Anaheim, 2200 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim. (714) 712-2700. www.anaheimballet.org The Nutcracker in Torrance December 19-20: Saturday and Sunday, 2 p.m.

Adults, $36; kids (12 and younger), $25. El Camino College Center for the Performing Arts. (310) 3295345. www.southbayballet.org The Nutcracker in Downey December 19-20: Saturday, 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, 2:30 p.m. $25-29. Downey Theater, 8435 Firestone Blvd., Downey. (562) 861-8211. www.downeytheatre.org The Nutcracker Swings in Los Angeles December 19-20: Saturday and Sunday, 8 p.m. $20-60.

The Wilshire Ebell Theatre, 743 South Lucerne Blvd., Los Angeles. (323) 292-1932. www.cityballetofla.org

The Nutcracker in Glendale December 11 and 13: Friday, 8 p.m.; and Sunday, 2 and 6 p.m. $15-45. The Alex Theatre, 216 N. Brand Blvd., Glendale. (818) 243-2539. www.redchairproductions.org

The Nutcracker in Irvine December 19-21: Saturday, 2 and 7 p.m.; Sunday, 3 p.m., and Monday, 2 p.m. $26-30. 4415 Portola Pkwy., Irvine. (888) 718-4253. www.mapleconservatory.com

Nutcracker in Fullerton December 11 and 13: Friday, 8 p.m.; and Sunday, 2 p.m.

Visit their website for ticket information. Fullerton College Campus Theatre, 321 E. Chapman Ave., Fullerton. (714) 526-3862. www.nouveauchamberballet.com

The Nutcracker in Huntington Beach December 19-20: Saturday, 7 p.m.; and Sunday, 2 p.m. $18-24. 1905 Main St., Huntington Beach. (714) 9639771. www.coastcityballet.com

The Nutcracker at the Warner Grand in San Pedro December 12-13: Saturday and Sunday, doors open at 7 p.m.; show at 8 p.m. Find ticket prices and purchase on their website. 478 W. 6th St., San Pedro.

(310) 548-2493. www.grandvision.org The Nutcracker at the Irvine Barclay Theater December 12-24: Visit their website for show days and times. Adults, $42-45; kids (12 and under), $40. 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine.

(949) 854-4646. www.thebarclay.org The Nutcracker in Mission Viejo December 17-20: Thursday and Friday, 7 p.m.; Saturday, 2 and 7 p.m.; and Sunday, 1 and 6 p.m. $22-26. Saddleback College - McKinney Theater, 28000 Marguerite Pkwy., Mission Viejo. (949) 582-4656. www.lagunadancetheatre.com The Nutcracker Ballet in Temecula December 17-23: Show times vary, visit their website

The Nutcracker in Anaheim December 19-21: Saturday - Monday, visit their website for times and to purchase tickets. $15-25.

1952 W. La Palma Ave., Anaheim. (714) 404-0002. www.strongdancestudios.com Nutcracker Tea Holiday Party in Newport Coast December 20: Sunday, noon. Adults, $90; and kids, $45, excluding tax and service charge. Purchase your tickets on their website. 22701 S. Pelican Hill Road, Newport Coast. (888) 507-6427. www.pelicanhill.com Great Russian Nutcracker at the Wiltern December 20-21: Sunday, 3 and 7 p.m.; Monday, 7 p.m. $40-120. Wiltern Theater, 3790 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles. www.nutcracker.com The Nutcracker at The Broad Museum November 28 - December 6: Days and times vary, visit their website for details. $40. 1310 11th St., Santa Monica. (310) 828-2018. www.westsideballet.com

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kidsguide holiday guide 2015 7

“How the Grinch Stole Christmas” at The Old Globe in San Diego Through December 26: Based on the classic Dr. Seuss book. Features songs from the popular animated version of “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.”

The Old Globe Theatre is once again transformed into the snow-covered Whoville, right down to the last can of Who-hash. Days and times vary; 11 a.m. matinee performances are open to all ages; everyone must have a ticket; kids under age 3 will not be admitted except during 11 a.m. performances.

Note: Special sensory-friendly performance, Saturday, December 12, 10:30 a.m. $89-109. 1363 Old Globe Way, San Diego. www.theoldglobe.org

www.fwry.com Christmas Tree Train Weekends Nov. 28 - Dec. 13 Departing 10am & 2pm Santa Shopper/Christmas Tree Train Dec. 19 & 20 Departs at 12pm only North Pole Express Selected Dates • 4:45, 6 & 7:30 pm Nov. 28-Dec. 26 Dinner with Santa • Dec. 21 & 22

805.524.2546 Reservations Required

Fashion Island Nightly Tree Lighting Moment November 9 - January 3: Enjoy the lighting of Fashion Island’s towering tree, Disney style. During this special tree lighting moment, watch as the tree twinkles to life with custom Disney holiday music and glittering lights. Daily, 5 p.m. 401 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach. www.shopfashionisland.com Free Admission Days at Southern California Museums Ongoing: Free admission is offered on varying days at the following museums. For contact information, visit www.tinyurl.com/KGmuseums Daily: Hammer Museum and The Broad. Monday Friday: Chapman University Permanent Exhibits, Wells Fargo History Museum, Los Angeles County Museum of Art, for Los Angeles residents after 3 p.m.

Tuesday - Saturday: Dominguez Rancho Adobe Museum, Flight Path Learning Center and Museum.

Tuesday - Sunday: California African American Museum, Getty Center.

Wednesday - Monday: Getty Villa.

Wednesday - Sunday: Homestead Museum, Rancho Los Alamitos, Rancho Los Cerritos, The Paley Center for Media.

Thursday - Tuesday: Los Angeles County Museum of Art (ages 17 and under are always free).

Sundays: Museum of Latin American Art.

Tickets Only $14-24

First Tuesday: Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County and Page Museum at the La Brea Tar Pits.

Kidspace, first Tuesday night from 4-8 p.m.

Second Tuesday: Los Angeles County Museum of Art and Autry National Center.

Thursdays: Skirball Cultural Center.

Make This Your Holiday Tradition

December 11-20 Friday & Saturday at 8pm Sunday at 2pm

(562) 494-1014 • lbplayhouse.org 5021 E. Anaheim St., Long Beach 8 kidsguide holiday guide 2015

First Thursday: Huntington Library, Art Collections and Botanical Gardens with reserved tickets.

Third Thursday: Japanese American National Museum (and every Thursday, 5-8 p.m.). Thursday nights: Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA), 5-8 p.m.

First Friday: Norton Simon Museum, 5-8 p.m.

Friday: Long Beach Museum of Art.

Frogg’s Bounce House Date Night Fridays: Drop the kids off and enjoy a night out! 5-8 p.m. $10 per hour for first child, $8 per hour for additional children within same family; includes pizza dinner. 16121 Brookhurst St., Fountain Valley. (714) 418-0442. www.froggsbouncehouse.com Grand Park Lights Up the Holidays November 29 - December 25: The park is magically lit, with a 35-foot tree as the centerpiece. Daily. Free. 200 N. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. www.grandparkla.org • Holiday Skate Center 175 N. Wayfield St., Orange. (714) 997-5515. www.holidayskate.com. See ad with coupon for two for one holiday special on page 14.

Family Night - Saturdays and Sundays: A family up to five can skate, including skate rental, for this special deal! Saturdays, 7-9:30 p.m., $7.50 each; and Sundays, 6:30-8:30 p.m., $6 each.

Kids Skate - Saturdays: Skate to kid’s music and play games. Recommended for ages 10 years and under, with a parent. Saturdays, 10 a.m. - noon. Admission, $6; skate rental, $3.

Flashback Skate Night - Tuesdays: Skate and groove to music hits from the 60s, 70s and 80s. All ages. Tuesday, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Admission, $6; skate rental, $3.

Holiday TV Shows Schedule November 27 - December 31: Enjoy classic holiday TV shows with the family. Check your local listings for time changes. All times are in PST. www.tinyurl.com/2015TV Infinite You Meditation Studio Tuesdays: Classes are donation based. Instructors teach the “SEED” method (Simple Easy Everyday Method) to help kids build self-confidence, learn to focus, be still, increase self-awareness and learn empathy. Kids (8-12), 5:30 p.m.; teens (12+), 6:30 p.m. 234 E. 17th St., Ste. 113, Costa Mesa. (949) 873-5134. www.infiniteyoumeditation.com Logan’s Candy-Making Demonstration in Ontario November 27-28 and December 5, 9-12, 15-18, 19, 21-23 and 28: See the craftsmanship and care put into all of the handmade, gourmet candies. Visit their website for schedule of times. Demonstrations are limited to available space. Please arrive 15-20 minutes prior to demonstrations to ensure availability.

Please note: public restrooms are not available, plan accordingly. 125 W. “B” St., Ontario. (909) 984-5410. www.loganscandies.com/candydemos.php Macy’s Letters To Santa Through December 23: Kids can create a letter to Santa and drop it off at Macy’s (or send it virtually online). For every letter received, Macy’s will donate $1 to Make-a-Wish (up to $1 million dollars). Daily. Free. www.social.macys.com/believe/#/santapostoffice Natural History Museum “Secrets from the Tombs” Exhibit Through January 18: “Mummies: New Secrets from the Tombs,” includes 20 mummies and coffins from ancient Egypt and Peru, archaeological treasures, a walk-in tomb recreated from ancient Egypt, the Minirlots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

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kidsguide holiday guide 2015 9

Indoor Playgrounds • Big Air Trampoline Park Big Air Trampoline Parks have become the area’s best indoor trampoline parks. Unique features include Climbing Wall, Battle Beam, Lil Air (for jumpers ages 6 and younger), Open Main Court, Dodgeball Courts, Foam Pit, Slam Dunk Basketball and The Bullpen. Great location for birthday and team parties, groups and corporate team building. Seasonal park promotions and specials are listed on their website. Reservations for groups of 15+ are required and made online or by calling Event Sales. Buena Park, 8320 On The Mall, (844) 550-JUMP; Laguna Hills, 23251 Avenida de la Carlota, (949) 305-9788; and Redlands, 1101 California St., (909) 335-7275. See ad on page 2.

More Indoor Playgrounds Indoor playgrounds offer play equipment with unique features. Parties, family sessions, scout/group programs, open play, camps and parents’ night out may be offered. Check websites for discounts and special days.

AdventurePlex – 1701 Marine Ave., Manhattan Beach. (310) 546-7708. www.adventureplex.org

BounceU Huntington Beach – 5445 Oceanus Drive, #115. (714) 892-4842. www.bounceu.com/huntingtonbeach

BounceU Orange – 428-A W. Katella Ave. (714) 744-JUMP. www.bounceu.com

Fun City Bounce – 14545 Valley View Ave., Ste. F, Santa Fe Springs. (562) 926-7864.

Jump N’ Jammin – 27741 Crown Valley Pkwy., Mission Viejo. (949) 582-5890. www.jumpnjammin.com

Kid Concepts U.S.A. – 22844 Hawthorne Blvd., Torrance. (310) 465-0075. www.kidconceptsusa.com

Playland Cafe – 880 Roosevelt, Irvine. (949) 829-2789. www.playlandcafe.com

Pump it Up – Anaheim Hills, (714) 693-9663; Huntington Beach, (714) 847-9663; Irvine, (949) 261-7867; and Lake Forest, (949) 951-9663. www.pumpitupparty.com

Pumper Jumpers – 160 E. Imperial Hwy., Fullerton. (714) 525-7529. www.pumperjumpers.com

Scooter’s Jungle – 921 Via Rodeo, Placentia, (714) 223-5730 and 25 Journey, Aliso Viejo, (949) 349-9090. Location also in El Segundo. www.scootersjungle.com

Seascape Kids Fun – 4771 E. Hunter Ave., Anaheim. (714) 970-7100. www.seascapekidsfun.com

Jumping Fun Kids – 7501 Commonwealth Ave., Buena Park.

(714) 787-4994. www.jumpingfunkids.com

Trampoline Parks: See Big Air listed on this section. GetAir, 5142 Argosy Ave., Huntington Beach, (714) 916-5815, www.getairsurfcity.com. Rockin’ Jump, 1411 S. Village Way, Santa Ana, (714) 249-7676, www.sna.rockinjump.com.

Sky High Sports, 2970 Airway Ave., Costa Mesa, (714) 437-5867, www.ocy.jumpskyhigh.com. Sky Zone, 1301 N. Kellogg Drive, Anaheim, (714) 693-0250. www.skyzone.com.

Twinkle Twinkle Kids Cafe – 2065 Palos Verdes Drive, Lomita. (310) 530-4535. www.kidscafetwinkle.com

We Play Loud Kids’ Indoor Playground – 24350 Swartz Drive, Lake Forest. (949) 3289616. www.weplayloud.com

10 kidsguide holiday guide 2015

dis mummy of a 14-year-old boy, and the Gilded Lady mummy on view for the first time since 1893. Daily, 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. $10-22, includes museum admission. 900 Exposition Blvd., Los Angeles. www.nhm.org Newport Harbor Christmas Boat Parade and Holiday Cruises December 5-15 and December 21 - January 3: Holiday cruises are offered on the nights of the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade. Monday Sunday, 5:30, 7 and 8:30 p.m. departure times.

Call for prices and to register. (949) 673-1435. www.newportbeachboatparade.com Old World German Village German Christmas Market and Boutique December 6, 13, 20: Now at Old World you can stroll through the cobblestone streets and shop at various vendors and village shops. Enjoy live entertainment and quality family time. Sundays, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

7561 Center Ave., Huntington Beach. (714) 8958020. www.oldworld.ws Operation Santa Paws 2015 December 1-18: An annual collection of pet toys, shelter supplies and treats that are delivered to shelter and rescue dogs and cats. Deliveries will be made on December 19th to animals in need. Visit their website for program details and drop-off locations. www.hautedogs.org/santapaws.html • Pretend City CHOC Toy Drive December 1-23: Help spread holiday cheer to patients at CHOC Children’s Hospital! Pretend City Children’s Museum partners up with the Orange Coast Harley Owner’s Group (OCHOG) and Orange County HarleyDavidson to benefit the patients at CHOC Children’s Hospital by collecting new, unwrapped toys all month long. Bring a child’s toy valued at $5 or greater to receive one free admission the day of your visit with a purchase of one additional admission. Daily, visit their website for schedule. 29 Hubble, Irvine. (949) 4283900. www.pretendcity.org. See ad on page 37.

Roger’s Garden’s Visit with Santa November 27 - December 20: Bring kids to Roger’s Gardens and take a professional photos with Santa Claus. Santa will be in the original Disneyland bandstand gazebo. Friday - Sunday, noon - 6 p.m. 2301 San Joaquin Hills Road, Corona Del Mar. (949) 6405800. www.rogersgardens.com Trolley Tour of Lights in Long Beach December 10-30: Board a classic cable-car trolley for a waterfront tour. Each tour includes hot cocoa and a sugar cookie, a souvenir Santa hat and candy cane, holiday music and light narration. 30-minute tour, 5:15, 6, 6:45, 7:30, 8:15 and 9 p.m. start times. Adults, $30; kids, $20. 5236 E. 2nd St. (in front of Legends), Long Beach. (562) 888-2870. www.longbeachtrolley.com Winter Fantasy at the Sawdust Art Festival in Laguna Beach Weekends through December 20: A winter-themed arts and crafts faire offering Santa visits, art activities, strolling carolers, magicians, puppet shows and children’s playhouse. Weekends, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Adults, $7; kids (6-12), $4; kids (under 5), free; season pass, $9. 935 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach. (949) 494-3030. www.sawdustartfestival.org lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

kidsguide holiday guide 2015 11

Daily Events All Day Skate at Fountain Valley Skating Center November 27: Skate that turkey off and boycott black Friday with games, prizes and fun! Friday, noon - 6 p.m. $12; includes skate rental, a hot dog, and a fountain soda. 9105 Recreation Circle, Fountain Valley. (714) 847-0022. www.fvsc.com Black Friday Mini-Camp Workshop and Parents Night Out at Lil’ Chef School in Irvine November 27: Parents take advantage of the oneday mini camp that will allow them to shop while their kiddos cook up a feast. The camp theme this year is “black.” Recipes include Black Friday dip, black bean and corn enchiladas, black forest cake and blackberry supremes! Friday, 9 a.m. - noon and 1-4 p.m. $69 ($59 per sibling discount) for one session or $100 ($95 per sibling) for both sessions. That evening, it’s Parent’s Night Out while kids enjoy making (and eating) pizza and cookies.

5:30-8:30 p.m. $45 ($20 per additional sibling).

15435 Jeffrey Road, #132, Irvine. (949) 6798390. www.lilchefschool.com Tree Lighting in Seal Beach November 27: Watch the annual tree lighting with holiday activities and family fun. Friday, 4-7 p.m.

Eisenhower Park, Ocean and Main. (562) 7990179. www.sealbeachchamber.org All-American Boys Chorus in Newport Beach November 28: The All-American Boys Chorus will kick-off the holiday season at the beautiful Roger’s Gardens with free afternoon performances. Saturday, 1:30 p.m. Free. 2301 San Joaquin Hills Road, Corona Del Mar. www.taabc.org “Elf on the Shelf” Story Times at Barnes & Noble November 28: Head to Barnes & Noble to celebrate Scout Elf Return Week with fun activities at Santa’s Boot Camp. Friday, 11 a.m. Bella Terra, Huntington Beach; Amerige Heights Town Center, Fullerton; Town and Country, Orange; and Irvine Spectrum.

Also Friday, noon, Marina Pacifica Mall, Long Beach.

Free. www.stores.barnesandnoble.com/events Lakeshore Learning’s Free Saturday Workshops November 28: Kids (3+) make a nature picture frame. Saturday, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. No reservations necessary. Carson, (310) 537-4778; Fountain Valley, (714) 963-8255; and Laguna Hills, (949) 462-9353. www.lakeshorelearning.com/freecrafts4kids Shop ‘N’ Drop Mad Science Saturdays In Huntington Beach November 28: Parents enjoy holiday shopping, while kids (5-12) have fun with hands-on experiments. All kids must be potty trained. Also available December 19. Saturday, 9 a.m. - noon. $34-35, plus $5 material fee. November 28 at Murdy Community Center Hall A. December 19 at City Gym and Pool. (714) 960-8884. www.huntingtonbeachca.gov 12 kidsguide holiday guide 2015

Hollywood Christmas Parade in Los Angeles November 29: The Hollywood Christmas Parade celebrates with Santa, marching bands, celebrities and more. Penn and Teller are the marshalls in this year’s parade. The U-shaped parade route will travel east to Vine, south on Vine to Sunset Boulevard and west on Sunset, back to Orange. Sunday, 6 p.m. Starts at Hollywood and Orange. Grandstand tickets are available on Ticketmaster. www.thehollywoodchristmasparade.com Messiah Sing-Along at Nixon Library November 29: Tune up your voices for the annual Handel’s Messiah sing-along, conducted by Glenn P. Wanke and presented by the Yorba Linda Arts Alliance. Sunday, seatings at 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Free.

18001 Yorba Linda Blvd., Yorba Linda. (714) 9935075. www.nixonfoundation.org Patchwork Indie Art and Craft Festival in Santa Ana November 29: Fun family shopping with more than 100 vendors displaying their handmade goods; plus enjoy kids arts and crafts, food and music. Sunday, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Free admission and parking. 2nd at Sycamore St., Santa Ana. www.dearhandmadelife.com Union Station Youth and Family Tours November 29: Families (5+) explore Union Station, its relationship with Los Angeles, and its train history.

Please note: this tour does not include boarding a train.

Also offered December 6 and 13. Sunday, 11 a.m. $510. Reservations required and are found on their website. Parking, $5-15. Tour meets in the Alameda Street entrance lobby, near the information counter. 800 N. Alameda St., Los Angeles. www.laconservancy.org Tree Lighting at Grand Park LA November 30: Grand Park will be lit up magically for the holidays with a 35-foot tree as a highlight. Monday, 5-6 p.m. Free. 200 N. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. www.grandparkla.org Free Family Night at Kidspace in Pasadena December 1: It’s time for the Winter Solstice! Create solstice lanterns, build bird feeders, and listen to star stories in celebration of Mother Earth and her transition into winter. Tuesday, 4-8 p.m. Free.

480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena. (626) 449-9144. www.kidspacemuseum.org Here Comes Santa at the Orange Library December 1: Kids (all ages) meet the big guy himself and tell him their wishes. Parents may bring cameras to take a picture of their child with Santa. Tuesday, 6-7:30 p.m. Free. 407 E. Chapman Ave., Orange. (714) 2882400. www.cityoforange.org/depts/library LA Opera Youth Auditions in LA December 1 and 6: Be a part of LA Opera’s Communi-

ty Opera production of The Festival Play of Daniel. The team is looking for youth and adult performers (actors, dancers, singers)—anyone over age 11 is invited to participate. The LA Opera production will feature a cast and chorus of nearly 500 from Los Angeles-area community groups. Attend either workshop to join the production: Thursday, 6-8 p.m. and Sunday, 1-3 p.m.

Performances are set for March 4-5 at Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels. Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, 135 N. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. (213) 972-3157. www.laopera.org/community-opera Tree Lighting in Garden Grove December 1: Enjoy festive entertainment, refreshments and a visit by Santa and Mrs. Claus, along with a Christmas tree lighting. Tuesday, 6:30 p.m. Village Green Park, 12732 Main St., Garden Grove. (714) 741-5200. www.ci.garden-grove.ca.us Annual Queen Mary Tree Lighting December 2: Enjoy live entertainment, a visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, refreshments and the annual lighting of the Queen Mary Christmas tree at this festive event at the Holiday Village at CHILL. Wednesday, 8 p.m. (877) 342-0738. www.queenmary.com • Kids Happy Hour at Dream Come True Party Room December 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17, 23 and 30: Time for the kiddos to unwind from a long day. Stop by for happy hour and play dress-up from the Castle Wardrobe, face painting, snacks and crafts. Offered most Wednesdays and Thursdays, 3-4 p.m., contact to confirm. $8. 3962 Studebaker Road, Ste. 204, Long Beach. (562) 2701400. www.dreamcometruepartyroom.com. See ad on page 33.

Tree Lighting Ceremony in Artesia December 2: Join the community of Artesia for a tree lighting ceremony with Santa Claus, games and treats for kids. Wednesday, 5:30-8:30 p.m. Free.

Artesia Park, 18750 Clarkdale Ave., Artesia. (562) 860-3361. www.cityofartesia.us • Weekly Tea Time at Dream Come True Party Room in Long Beach December 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30: Tea time includes dress-up play from the Castle Wardrobe, mini muffins, tea or juice in fancy teacups, etiquette and storytelling. Offered most Wednesdays, 4-5 p.m., contact to confirm. $12, per child; reservations required. 3962 Studebaker Road, Ste. 204. (562) 2701400. www.dreamcometruepartyroom.com. See ad on page 33.

Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony in Signal Hill December 3: The public is invited to attend the annual tree lighting ceremony which will officially ring in the start of the holidays. Enjoy festive treats and holiday music. Inclement weather will cancel the event. Thursday, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Discovery Well Park, 2200 Temple Ave., Signal Hill. (562) 989-7330. www.cityofsignalhill.org lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

kidsguide holiday guide 2015 13

Return of the Jedi Screening at Huntington Beach Central Library December 3: The 40th Anniversary Celebration of the Central Library continues with a showing of the “Return of the Jedi.” Two viewings offered. Costumes are encouraged. May the Force be with you! Thursday, 4 and 7 p.m. Free; seating will be on a first-come, firstserve basis. 7111 Talbert Ave., Huntington Beach.

(714) 842-4481. www.hbpl.org

562/485-3085

Mental Health Services for Children and Families • Case Management • Crisis Intervention • Intensive Mental Health Treatment • Individual, Group & Family Therapy

• Field Capable Clinical Services • Full Service Partnership • School-Based Services • Psychological Testing & Psychiatric Medication

English/Spanish • Medi-Cal Accepted

www.tgclb.org

Christmas Melodrama and Ice Cream Social at OCC December 4-6 and 11-13: Orange Coast College’s Repertory Theatre Company stages an Old-Fashioned Christmas Melodrama and Ice Cream Social. Boo the villain and cheer the hero in the annual holiday melodrama and sing-along. Plus a visit by Santa; parents are encouraged to bring their cameras. Fun for the whole family! Friday, 7 p.m.; Saturday, 2:30 and 7 p.m.; and Sunday, 2:30 p.m. Adults, $7-9; kids (seniors and students), $5-7. Orange Coast College Drama Lab Theatre, 2701 Fairview Road, Costa Mesa.

(714) 432-5880. www.orangecoastcollege.edu Christmas Tree Lighting in Mission Viejo December 4: Ring in the holiday cheer with a performance by St. Killian Choir and the South Coast Freestyle Dance Company performing “A Storybook Nutcracker.” Plus hot cocoa and baked goods available for purchase. Friday 6-8 p.m. Free to attend. 27741 Crown Valley Pkwy., Mission Viejo. www.gokaleidoscope.com Christmas Tree Lighting in Tustin December 4: Kick-off the holiday season at this free event with holiday carols, stage entertainment, and the traditional tree lighting. Friday, 6 p.m. Tustin Library Courtyard, 345 E. Main St., Tustin. (714) 573-3326. www.tustinca.org Dive-In Movie at Fullerton Community Center December 4: Join the community center for a screening of “The Grinch.” Watch from the pool or outside under the stars. Friday, doors open at 6:30 p.m.; movie begins at 7:30 p.m. $5 per person. 340 W. Commonwealth Ave, Fullerton. (714) 738-6575. www.onlinedigitaleditions.com/cityoffullerton Gingerbread House Workshop at Lil’ Chef School in Irvine December 4: Kids make a one-of-a-kind masterpiece to display at their house during the holidays, accompanied by hot chocolate, popcorn and Christmas music to sway in the holiday spirit. Friday, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Call or visit their website for fees and to register. 15435 Jeffrey Road, #132, Irvine.

(949) 679-8390. www.lilchefschool.com Harvest Festival Original Art and Craft Show in Pomona December 4-6: Boasting an array of more than 24,000 unique handmade items at affordable prices, it’s the shoppertunity that only comes around once a year. The show features more than 200 exhibitors, live entertainment, strolling performers, a kids’ zone with interactive activities and specialty foods. Friday, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; and Sunday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Adults, $9; kids (13-17), $4; kids under 12, free.

Fairplex in Pomona, 1101 W. McKinley Ave., Pomona.

(909) 623-3111. www.harvestfestival.com/pomona

14 kidsguide holiday guide 2015

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lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

kidsguide holiday guide 2015 15

Snow Days • Winter Wonderfest at Discovery Cube in Santa Ana December 12-13 and December 19 - January 3: 100 tons of snow comes to Orange County with themed attractions and real science at Discovery Cube OC. Learn the science behind sledding down ice ramps and how snowflakes are formed, then put your knowledge to action with real sledding and snowflake making. Activities include snow tubing, sledding, snow learning stations and snow play area.

2500 N. Main St., Santa Ana. (714) 542-2823. www.discoverycube.org. See ad on page 5.

Lighting of the Newport Beach Back Bay November 27: Families enjoy snow, Santa photo op, ice exhibit, musical entertainment and hot chocolate (for a nominal price). Friday, 1-8 p.m. Call for admission and activity fees. 1131 Back Bay Drive, Newport Beach. (949) 729-3863. www.newportdunes.com Santa Arrival and Snow Play in Anaheim November 29: Play in real snow, make crafts, visit and take photos with Santa, face painting, balloon artist, train rides, enter gift card drawings and holiday shopping. Sunday, noon - 3 p.m. Free admission. 2180 E. Lincoln Ave., Anaheim. (714) 956-3411. www.anaheimtownsquare.com/upcoming-events Nutcracker Holiday Village and Tree Lighting in Anaheim December 5: Features tree lighting, food, shopping, holiday music from the Anaheim Ballet and Anaheim Union High School Choir, free pictures with Santa from 3-5:45 p.m., free train rides and free crafts for kids. Plus, free snow play, so bring your mittens, boots and camera. Saturday, 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.; and lighting at 6 p.m. Free. Downtown Anaheim, Center St. Promenade and Lemon St. (714) 956-3586. www.downtownanaheim.com/tree-lighting Winter Wonderland in Los Alamitos December 5: Featuring a snow play area, activities, Santa’s Village, a tree-lighting ceremony, a make-andtake mini sewing project as well as a fashion show (both presented by The Sewing Lab), refreshments and entertainment. Saturday, 4-7:30 p.m. Free admission. Saturday, 4-7:30 p.m. St. Isadore Historical Plaza, 10961 Reagan St., Los Alamitos. (562) 430-1073. www.cityoflosalamitos.org Snow Wonderland at the Anaheim Marketplace December 6: Play in over 25 tons of snow. Plus, live entertainment, free hot chocolate, crafts and a bunch of giveaways. Sunday, noon -4 p.m. Free. 1440 S. Anaheim Blvd. (714) 999-0888. www.anaheimindoormarketplace.com Winter Family Festival in Studio City December 13: Play in more than 70 tons of snow! Plus, music, crafts and restaurant samples. Sunday, 1-4 p.m. Free admission. Guests are encouraged to bring canned and packaged food (no glass please); new, unwrapped toys; baby supplies; pet supplies; new or gentlyused children’s books (K-12); and new or gently-used clothing and blankets. 12621 Rye St., Studio City. (818) 769-4415. www.studiocityresidents.org Winter in Willmore at Drake Park December 19: Sledding and snow play, holiday lights, treats, crafts and pictures with Santa! Please bring a can of food to donate. Saturday, 1-6 p.m. Free. 951 Maine Ave., Long Beach. (818) 266-7110. www.willmorecity.org Snow Days at Kidspace Museum December 26-30: Play in real snow, make snow angels and snowmen, and snowballs. Check out live performances each day and discover the science of snow. Saturday - Wednesday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Included with museum admission. 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena. (626) 449-9144. www.kidspacemuseum.org

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Holiday Event at American Girl in LA December 4, 11 and 18: Nothing makes the holidays merrier than sharing time together! So gather friends, girls and dolls for a fun in-store event celebrating traditions, with wish-themed activities, party-planning and decorating ideas, gingerbread-inspired recipe boxes, and more. This event includes a meal together and the opportunity to make great memories! Friday, 5:30-6:30 p.m. $45 per person; registration required.

Los Angeles. (877) 247-5223. www.americangirl.com Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony in Bellflower December 4: Join in the festivities as the City of Bellflower lights their holiday tree. Santa Claus will arrive during the event. Entertainment will be provided by the Mayfair High School Vocal Ensemble. There will also be a rink for scooters and skates (children are encouraged to wear a helmet to enter the rink) and holiday crafts.

Refreshments will be served, including complimentary peach cobbler, coffee and hot cocoa. Friday, 6:30 p.m.

Friendship Square, 16559 Bellflower Blvd., Bellflower.

(562) 804-1424, Ext. 2261. www.bellflower.org Holiday Tree Lighting in Lakewood December 4: Join the City of Lakewood for their premier tree lighting with sing-alongs, free children’s games, a visit from Santa, “snowfall” and several photo opportunities. Plus, there will be food trucks. Friday, 6:30-8 p.m. Civic Center Plaza, 5000 Clark Ave., Lakewood. (562) 866-9771, Ext. 2160. www.lakewoodcity.org/treetickets Moonlit Marshmallows in Irvine December 4: Make warm and gooey s’mores by the campfire. Bring a flashlight and dress warmly. Friday, 6:30-7:30 p.m. and 7:30-8:30 p.m. $3 per person; adults must accompany children under 18. Preregistration required. Turtle Rock Nature Center. Irvine Community Services Department. www.quickreg.ci.irvine.ca.us “Polar Express” Story Time at Barnes & Noble December 4: In celebration of the 30th anniversary of “The Polar Express,” head to Barnes & Noble for a Pajama Party. Friday, 7 p.m. Marina Pacifica Mall, Long Beach; Bella Terra, Huntington Beach; Amerige Heights Town Center, Fullerton; Town and Country, Orange; Fashion Island, Newport Beach; and Irvine Spectrum.

Free. www.stores.barnesandnoble.com/stores Seal Beach Christmas and Holiday Parade December 4: Holiday parade along Main Street includes a visit from Santa. Friday, 7 p.m. Main St., Seal Beach. (562) 799-0179. www.sealbeachca.gov Seasonal Sensory Playgroup at Mother’s Beach December 4: Join in on the fun at Mother’s Beach, use Christmas tree branches as paint brushes. This sensory playgroup is designed to exercise your child’s creativity by using nature to make something memorable.

Take home your new creation or gift it to a loved one for the holidays! Friday, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Long Beach.

(562) 439-3425. www.ahwinstitute.com Ugly Sweater Workshop at Fashion Camp OC December 4-5: Kids (7+) can learn to hand sew a one-of-a-kind ugly holiday sweater for the season.

All materials included. Friday, 3:30-6 p.m. and Saturday, 9-11:30 a.m. $39. The District at Tustin Legacy, 2477 Park Ave. (714) 259-0946, (949) 364-1856. www.fashioncampoc.com lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

WINTER FUN STARTS HERE! • December 13 & 20 Figure Skating Show • December 21 - January 1 Extended Skate Sessions with Festive Decorations & Music • January 2 Celebrate U.S. Figure Skating Association’s National Skating Month • Select Fridays, 6-6:30 pm Free Ice Skating Lessons; call for dates

Public Session • Skating School • Party Packages Fitness Center • Broomball • Figure Skating • Private Lessons Private Ice Rental • Adult Hockey League • Group Exercise Classes California Wave Youth Hockey

Visit our new ice rink in Ontario, too!

For more information: (909) 986-ICE-1 www.ontariocenterice.com

EAST WEST ICE PALACE

lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

(562) 809-6200 www.EastWestIcePalace.com 11446 Artesia Blvd.,Artesia kidsguide holiday guide 2015 17

3D Printer Instruction for Teens in La Habra December 5: Teens print out interesting designs on the 3D printer or even make some of their own inventions, like an ornament for the holidays. Flash drives are recommended but not mandatory. Also offered December 12. Saturday, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. La Habra Library, 221 E. La Habra Blvd., La Habra. (714) 5267728. www.ocpl.org/libloc/habra 23rd Annual Holiday Sonata in Whittier December 5: Celebrate the season with horse-drawn carriage and trolley rides, caroling, entertainment, photos with Santa and more, while browsing through the shops and restaurants of Uptown Whittier. Saturday, 4-9 p.m. Free admission. Greenleaf Ave. and Philadelphia St. (562) 696-2262. www.whittieruptown.org A Civil War Christmas in Wilmington December 6-7: This 16th Annual Holiday Celebration should not be missed—it’s become a holiday tradition for thousands! The Banning Museum and the Drum Barracks Museum sponsor free horse-drawn carriage rides between the two sites, which are each decorated for true holiday delight. Admission to both museums and the carriage rides are free. Now that’s the holiday spirit! Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. 1052 Banning Blvd., Wilmington. (310) 548-7509. www.drumbarracks.org Belmont Shore’s Annual Christmas Parade December 5: The Belmont Shore Christmas Parade takes place on E. 2nd Street from Livingston Ave. to Bayshore Ave., and back. Thousands line the street to watch the 100+ entries and more than a dozen marching bands. This year’s theme is “Miracle on 2nd Street.” Saturday, 6-9 p.m. Free to spectate. 2nd St., Long Beach. (562) 434-3066. www.belmontshore.org Breakfast and Brunch with Santa in Lake Forest December 5: Join Santa for a home-style cooked breakfast and brunch with pancakes, scrambled eggs, sausage, juice and milk. There will be holiday melodies, cookie decorating, and story time with Santa. Be sure to invite your friends and family as Mrs. Claus and Santa’s elves will be on hand to join the fun! Saturday, 8:30-10:30 a.m. $6 per person; kids (2 and under) are free; preregistration required, no tickets at the door. Lake Forest Community Center, 25550 Commercentre Drive, Lake Forest. (949) 461-3450. www.lakeforestca.gov

holiday crafts, games, snack time, movie and a visit from Santa. A great time for parents and caregivers to do holiday shopping sans kids. Saturday, 9 a.m. 2 p.m. $10 per person, plus $10 material fee. Attendance is limited; register early. Murdy Community Center, 7000 Norma Drive, Huntington Beach. (714) 960-8884. www.huntingtonbeachca.gov Candy Caneland and Craft Faire in Buena Park December 5: An annual holiday carnival with games and Santa, plus holiday craft and food booths. Saturday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. 8150 Knott Ave., Buena Park.

(714) 562-3860. www.buenapark.com Chili Holiday Event in La Mirada December 5: Spend time with family and friends enjoying live entertainment by holiday carolers and students from local schools, plus kids’ arts and crafts, games and photos with Santa. Bring nonperishable food and toys to help make gift baskets for local children and families. Saturday, 5-8 p.m.

Free. 13806 La Mirada Blvd., La Mirada. (562) 902-3191. www.splashlamirada.com Christmas at Mission San Juan Capistrano December 5: Held in conjunction with the City of San Juan Capistrano’s annual tree lighting ceremony and community-wide holiday celebration. Families enjoy a fun, festive and memorable evening with musical performances, photo opportunities with Father Christmas, food vendors and the beautiful historic Mission festively lit up for this special event. Saturday, 5:30-8 p.m. Adults, $5; kids (411), $3. 26801 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano.

(949) 234-1300. www.missionsjc.com Creation Station at Rancho Los Cerritos December 5: Kids (6-11) drop in for an afternoon of good-old fashioned fun! Create unique seasonal crafts and participate in engaging rancho-themed activities. Today’s theme is “Gorgeous Green.” Kids choose from an array of art materials and nature supplies to make holiday cards, decorate a tree ornament, and sew a Christmas stocking, Saturday, 1-4 p.m. Visitors can also take a free tour of the house, decorated for the holidays, or a garden tour between 1-5 p.m. Free. 4600 Virginia Road, Long Beach.

(562) 206-2040. www.rancholoscerritos.org

Breakfast with Santa in La Habra December 5-6: Get your fill of holiday cheer and yummy treats as you make an ornament for your tree and pose for photos with Santa Claus. Saturday and Sunday, 8:30, 9:45 and 11 a.m. Adults, $12; kids, $10. Reservations required; tickets include breakfast, holiday craft, photo with Santa Claus and admission into the museum. Children’s Museum at La Habra, 301 S. Euclid St. (562) 383-4236. www.lhcm.org

Elf at LA’s Million Dollar Theatre December 5: After inadvertently wreaking havoc on the elf community due to his ungainly size, a man (Will Ferrell) raised as an elf at the North Pole is sent to the U.S. in search of his true identity. Get your seasonal cheer on as you find strolling Christmas carolers and holiday food galore inside the theater, or next door, at Grand Central Market’s cornucopia of sweet and savory options. Saturday, doors open at 6 p.m., movie at 8 p.m. $20. 307 S. Broadway St., Los Angeles. www.streetfoodcinema.com

Breakfast with Santa in Westminster December 5: Gather the family to have breakfast with Santa. Saturday, 9-10:30 a.m. $8. Space is limited and early registration is recommended. Westminster Community Services and Recreation, 8200 Westminster Blvd. (714) 895-2860. www.westminster-ca.gov

Family Fossil Day in Buena Park December 5: Families (6+) can explore Ralph B. Clark Regional Park’s rich fossil history and visit the marine fossil site for hands-on fossil excavation; bring a picnic lunch and stay to enjoy the park afterward. Saturday, 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.; meet at the

Candy Cane Capers In Huntington Beach December 5: Kids (5-12) sing carols and join in on 18 kidsguide holiday guide 2015

amphitheater. Parking, $5. The Ralph B. Clark Park and Interpretive Center, 8800 Rosecrans Ave., Buena Park. (714) 973-3170. www.ocparks.com Family Hike at Upper Newport Bay December 5 and 19: An easy way for families of all ages to learn more about Upper Newport Bay and enjoy the trails around it with an informal talk by a ranger. The hike will last approximately one hour on paved and dirt trails, with some stairs. Bring sun protection and water. Saturday, 10:30 a.m. Meet on the patio of the Muth Interpretive Center. 2301 University Drive, Newport Beach. (949) 923-2290. www.ocparks.com/uppernewportbay Festival of Trees in Yorba Linda December 5: Free event for the entire family! Enjoy free photos with Santa, free kids’ area, free games and crafts, vendor and entertainment, plus delicious food trucks. Saturday, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. 16850 Bastenchury Road, Yorba Linda. (714) 986-2380.

Free AAA Car Seat Safety Class in Laguna Hills December 5: Join the Auto Club for a free class on the proper use of car seats, including how to select the right seat for your child and tips on car seat installation. Adults only; they will not install the car seat, but provide tips. Saturday, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Registration required. Saddleback Memorial Medical Center, Women’s Center, 24451 Health Center Drive, Laguna Hills. (714) 885-2312. www.calif.aaa.com Gingerbread Houses at Art To Grow On December 5-6 and 12-13: Bring the entire family and learn how to frost, design and decorate your very own gingerbread house! Includes all holiday candies, lollipops, gum-drops, candy canes, snow icing and more! Saturday - Sunday, 11 a.m. or 2 p.m. $85.

Reservations required at picasso@art2growon.com.

Manhattan Beach Creative Arts Center, 1560 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach. (310) 6256028. www.art2growon.com/community-events Here Comes Santa at the Orange Library El Modena Branch December 5: Kids (all ages) meet the big guy himself and tell him their wishes. Parents may bring cameras to take a picture of their child with Santa. Saturday, 3-4:30 p.m. Free. 380 S. Hewes Ave., Orange. (714) 288-2450. www.cityoforange.org/library Ho Ho Night Hike in Brea December 5: Come see Carbon Canyon Regional Park in a completely different setting—in the dark!

Park rangers will lead a hike to the Redwood Grove showcasing the natural wonders that can only be seen at night. The Ho Ho Night Hike will feature fun activities, including a visit to the Nature Center, hot cocoa and cookies, a live animal presentation and a hike through the wilderness area. Please dress warmly, wear good walking shoes and bring a flashlight.

(No pets, please.) Saturday, 5:30-8 p.m. Registration recommended at carboncanyon@ocparks.com. Free.

4442 Carbon Canyon Road, Brea. (714) 973-3160. www.ocparks.com/carboncanyon Holiday Crafting and Winter Walk at The Reserve at Rancho Mission Viejo December 5: This holiday season create handmade gifts and treasured keepsakes using natural and recycled lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

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materials. Head away from the mall and into nature and enjoy winter morning crafting, sipping hot cocoa and walking to Mother Oak tree. Recommended for ages 6 and up. Saturday, 9:30-11:30 a.m. $5 per person.

Registration required on their website. The Richard and Donna O’Neill Conservancy. www.rmvreserve.org Holiday Lamplight Celebration in Los Angeles December 5-6: Experience the annual Holiday Lamplight Celebration with tours beginning at 4 p.m. Explore Victorian homes at Heritage Square’s annual holiday event. Saturday - Sunday, 4-9 p.m. Adults, $30, kids (6-12), $15; not suitable for kids under 6. Reservations required. Heritage Square Museum, 3800 Homer St., Los Angeles. (323) 225-2700. www.heritagesquare.org Holiday Treats for the Aquarium’s Animals December 5-6: In celebration of the holiday season, diver Santa will deliver an ocean of gifts to the Aquarium of the Pacific’s sea otters, seals, sea lions, birds, fish and other animals. Families can enjoy holiday music, crafts, special presentations, unique photo opportunities, shopping and more. Saturday and Sunday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Adults (12+), $28.95; seniors (62+), $25.95; kids (3-11), $14.95; and free for children under age 3 and Aquarium members. 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach.

(562) 590-3100. www.aquariumofpacific.org Holiday Light Parade at the USS Iowa December 5: Join a special Holiday Light Parade.

Featuring a visit from Santa Claus, holiday crafts for children, carolers and holiday music, hot cocoa, candy canes and much more. Saturday, 6-9 p.m. Adults, $20; kids (6-11), $10. 250 S. Harbor Blvd., San Pedro. (877) 446-9261. www.pacificbattleship.com Hot Wheels Garage Event in El Segundo December 5: See life-sized custom Hot Wheels cars, play with Hot Wheels tracks and enter a raffle, plus face-painting, balloon animals, $2 ice cream sundaes, and photos with Santa Claus. Saturday, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Adults, $10; kids (11-17), $5; kids (10 and under), free. Automobile Driving Museum, 610 Lairport St., El Segundo. www.automobiledrivingmuseum.org International Day with the Critters at Santa Ana Zoo December 5: International Holiday with the Critters featuring festive decorations, international stations, crafts, animals and music. Gift shop discounts. Saturday, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Included with admission.

Santa Ana Zoo, 1801 Chestnut Ave., Santa Ana. (714) 953-8555. www.santaanazoo.org

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20 kidsguide holiday guide 2015

Lakeshore Learning’s Free Saturday Workshops December 5: Kids (3+) make a wintery snowglobe.

Saturday, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. No reservations necessary. Carson, (310) 537-4778; Fountain Valley, (714) 963-8255; and Laguna Hills, (949) 4629353. www.lakeshorelearning.com/freecrafts4kids Piecemakers Christmas Village Event December 5: Shop 80 hand-picked vendors offering clothing, gifts and home decor, plus antiques and collectibles, music, food and family fun. Saturday, 9 a.m. 4 p.m. Free admission and parking. 1720 Adams Ave., Costa Mesa. (714) 641-3112. www.piecemakers.com Sugar Rush Event at the OC Fair and Event Center December 5-6: A dessert-themed food market exlots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

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Tubing & Sledding • North Pole Tubing Park at Mountain High December - Mid-March: For the best snow tubing, head to the North Pole Tubing Park at Mountain High’s North Resort! The North Pole Tubing Park is the largest sliding facility in Southern California with up to ten lanes, two moving carpets and custom tubes. Saturdays, Sundays and holidays, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Full day, $35; two hours, $20; kids (36-42” tall with paying adult), $15; and season pass, $99. Tubes are included in the ticket price. Kids under 36” tall are not permitted for safety reasons. Visit their website for directions and more details. (888) 7547878. www.mthigh.com/mountain/north-pole-tubing-park. See ad on page 23.

Alpine Slide and Snow Play Through Mid-March: Enjoy tubing and snow play, plus take a chairlift ride to the top of the Alpine Slide where riders navigate their own individually-controlled sleds down their choice of two quarter-mile-long cement tracks filled with high-banked turns and long straightways. Go-Karts and mini-golf also offered.

Daily, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. (Christmas Day, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.). Tubing: $25 per person ages 7 and up, includes inner tube and unlimited rides down eight runs; kids (2-6) are free with a paying adult. Alpine Slide: $6, single ride; $25, five-ride book. Kids ages 2-6 and under 48” may ride for free with an adult ages 18 and older. 800 Wildrose Lane, Big Bear Lake. (909) 866-4626. www.alpineslidebigbear.com Big Bear Snow Play Through Mid-March: Head to the hills! It’s prime tubing time at Big Bear Snow Play. Daily, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. (Christmas Day, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.). Tubing: $30 per person ages 7 and up, includes inner tube and unlimited rides down eight runs. Kids (2-6) are free with a paying adult. 42825 Big Bear Blvd., Big Bear Lake. (909) 585-0075. www.bigbearsnowplay.com Mt. Baldy Tubing Park Thanksgiving weekend to end of snow season: Ride to the top of Sugar Pine Chair Lift for a zip downhill at the Mt. Baldy Tubing Park. Daily sessions are 90 minutes each, starting at 8:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. Kids must be at least 36” tall. Check weather conditions first at (909) 982-0800 and get there a half-hour early for your ski-lift ride. Open weekends only, until they get enough snow. $5 for riders 36-42” tall; $15-20 for riders 42” and taller. (909) 982-0800. www.mtbaldyskilifts.com Snowdrift Snow Tubing Park Through Mid-March: Tubing fun on snow tubes that are specially designed with belly straps and handles. Beginner, intermediate and advanced slopes available. Monday Friday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.; Saturday, Sunday and holidays, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Call first for pricing and to confirm good conditions. Highway 18, four miles past Running Springs. (909) 867-2640. www.snowdrift.net Snow Valley Snow Play Through Mid-March: Enjoy a scenic chair lift ride followed by a thrilling downhill sled ride. Snow accessories, including snow boots, gloves and waterproof pants, are available for purchase in the Sport Shop.

Plus, watch your friends and family take part in the snow play adventure while enjoying some food or a drink on a sun deck. Friday - Sunday, plus holidays, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Full day, $11-35. Snow Valley Mountain Resort. (909) 867-2751. www.snow-valley.com

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perience of the sweetest kind. Featuring interactive entertainment, sweet treats from some of the best pastry chefs in Southern California, and exciting chef’s challenges and food displays. Saturday and Sunday, noon - 5 p.m. $10-50. 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa. www.bigbiteevents.com Tamale Festival in Indio December 5-6: All kinds of tasty tamales, plus a carnival, parade, live music and entertainment, a car show and Kiddie Land activities. The event was ranked among the top 10 “All-American Food Festivals” in the nation by the Food Channel! Saturday, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Free admission. Downtown Indio, Corner of Miles and Oasis. (760) 832-8620, Ext. 46. www.tamalefestival.net Toyota Symphonies for Youth at the Music Center December 5: Symphonies for Youth mixes music with fun and fantasy for children ages 5-11. Join musical adventures with English composer Benjamin Britten.

Dive into some of Britten’s best loved works, including “The Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra.”

Recommended for kids ages 5-11. Saturday, 11 a.m. $27.50-31.50. 111 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles.

(213) 972-7211. www.laphil.com Tree Lighting Festivities in Fountain Valley December 5: Enjoy pictures with Santa, games, crafts, and much more! Food will be available for purchase to support local youth organizations. Mad Science will host a science “snow” booth. Saturday, 4:30-8 p.m. 16400 Brookhurst St., Fountain Valley.

(714) 839-8611. www.fountainvalley.org Tree Trimming Party and Marionette Show in Huntington Beach December 5: Friends of the Children’s Library presents their annual Tree Trimming Crafts and Holiday Extravaganza puppet show performed by the incredibly talented Swazzle Puppets. Kids go home with their own collection of holiday ornaments, the experience of a wonderful puppet show, and have the opportunity to see Santa as well. Saturday, 10 a.m. $4 per person. 7111 Talbert, Huntington Beach. (714) 375-5107. www.hbpl.org Victorian Christmas at Heritage Hill December 5: Festive holiday entertainment, kids’ crafts, historical exhibits, handicraft vendors, tours through historic buildings staffed by docents, and visits with Santa Claus. Saturday, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Adults, $4; kids (3-12), $3. 25151 Serrano Road, Lake Forest. (949) 923-2232. www.ocparks.com/historic/heritage/events Winter Market in Fullerton December 5: Enjoy live holiday entertainment, free pictures with Santa, holiday shopping at vendor and food booths, face painting and a bounce house. Bring a new, unwrapped toy for the Spark of Love toy drive, sponsored by Fullerton firefighters. Saturday, noon 4 p.m. Free admission. Fullerton Downtown Plaza.

(714) 738-6545. www.cityoffullerton.com • Young Explorers Academy at Columbia Memorial Space Center December 5: You and your young explorer can join their Young Explorers Academy on the first Saturday of every month. Kids (3-6) and their guardian will explore, experiment and create during hands-on and participant-led activities based on various early lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

childhood topics. Saturday, 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Story time, live from space, 1-2 p.m. $12 per child/ guardian pair; includes all-day admission. Space is limited! 12400 Columbia Way, Downey. (562) 2311200. www.columbiaspacescience.org. See ad on page 29.

Corona Del Mar Christmas Walk December 6: The Corona Del Mar Chamber of Commerce presents the community’s most popular event of the year. This is a can’t-miss special event filled with holiday festivities for family, friends, residents and visitors looking for a spectacular way to ring in the holiday season. Each year “The Walk” brings together thousands of funloving people into the Village of Corona Del Mar for live entertainment, food, prizes and games in true holiday spirit. Sunday, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Free.

2855 E. Coast Highway, Corona Del Mar. (949) 673-4050. www.cdmchamber.com Deck the Halls Concert in Long Beach December 6: The Southern California Brass Consortium presents an evening of new works and holiday classics, including “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” “We Three Kings,” and “Deck the Halls.” Sunday, 7 p.m. $15-20. Los Altos United Methodist Church, 5950 E. Willow St., Long Beach. www.socalbrass.org DIY Holiday Workshop at the Hammer Museum December 6: As they do every year, students (9-14) will invent a holiday. This time around, they’ll use their holiday to hawk all the holiday-themed wares they can on a fake home shopping channel. Led by Aaron Davidson, who develops kids’ shows for Amazon Studios. Sunday, 11 a.m. Free. The Hammer’s free collaborative workshops, presented with 826LA, are designed for groups of up to 20 students. Reservations are encouraged. 10899 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles. (310) 915-0200. www.hammer.ucla.edu Festive West at The Autry December 6: Craft origami dragons, learn the art of papel picado and play traditional games to celebrate winter holidays enjoyed across the American West. At 2 p.m. and 3 p.m., see puppet shows that reveal the cultural origins of various holiday traditions. Fun for families with children ages 4+. Sunday, 1-4 p.m. Included with museum admission. 4700 Western Heritage Way, Los Angeles. (323) 667-2000. www.theautry.org Hanukkah Celebration at Farmers Market LA December 6: Celebrate Hanukkah with the lighting of a giant menorah, music, and arts and crafts. Sunday, 2:30-5 p.m. Free. 3rd St. and Fairfax Ave., Los Angeles. www.farmersmarketla.com Holiday Parade and Pier Lighting in Huntington Beach December 6: Light up the Huntington Pier and light up snowflakes on Main Street with a children’s holiday parade featuring Mr. and Mrs. Claus, performances, and hot chocolate and cookies. To kick off the holiday season, thousands of community members will countdown to the Huntington Beach giant snowflake lighting during the annual “Light a Light of Love” holiday celebration and fundraiser to benefit nonprofit Community Service Program’s (CSP) Huntington Beach Youth Shelter, a “safe haven” for homeless, runaway, abused and at-risk youth. Sunday, entertainment, 3:30-7 p.m.; Children’s lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

Improv Monologues Scenes Movement Save your DRAMA for Winter Camps! Character Study December 21-23 Call today December 28-30 Musical to reserve 9am-1pm • Ages 7-13 Theater your spot! actingoutcamp.com Audition Techniques (562) 901-0111 kidsguide holiday guide 2015 23

Holiday Parade, 4:30-5:15 p.m.; Surf City Santa Meet and Greet, 5:15 p.m.; and Snowflake Lighting Ceremony on the Pier, 6 p.m. sharp. Huntington Beach Pier Plaza. (714) 960-9276. www.cspinc.org • Hooray for Hanukkah at Pretend City December 6-14: Celebrate Hanukkah at Pretend City! These rich and diverse circle times will teach your child about the Hanukkah miracle and traditional symbols. Games, finger-play rhymes, art projects, and activities are part of the fun. 11-11:30 a.m. Free with admission. Pretend City Children’s Museum, 29 Hubble, Irvine. (949) 428-3900. www.pretendcity.org.

See ad on page 37.

Joyful Jingles in Irvine December 6: Celebrate winter as snow falls over the Irvine Civic Center and the community gathers for games, crafts, music, hot chocolate, entertainment and food. Event includes a Joyful Jingles holiday concert and visit from Santa Claus. Sunday, 3-5 p.m. Admission is free. One Civic Center Plaza, Irvine. (949) 724-6080. www.quickreg.ci.irvine.ca.us Kwanzza Holiday Celebration in Los Angeles December 6: Come and decorate a canvas bag or embellish a ceramic tile to share with others during the holiday season. Sunday, museum opens at 11 a.m.; event begins at 2 p.m. Free. California African American Museum, 600 State Drive, Los Angeles.

(213) 744-7432. www.caamuseum.org Menorah Lighting in Belmont Shore December 6: Join a Menorah Lighting with Chanukah crafts, face painting, dreidles, donuts, prizes and chocolate gelt for kids. Sponsored by Belmont Shore Business Association and Shul by the Shore. Sunday, 4 p.m. Free. 5254 E. 2nd St., Long Beach. (562) 621-9828. www.shulbytheshore.org Menorah Lighting in Newport Beach December 6: Join the OC’s largest Menorah Lighting Ceremony, with a children’s choir performance, dreidles, holiday doughnuts, balloon animals, face painting, entertainment, crafts and treats for kids. Sunday, 3 p.m. Free. 401 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach. (949) 721-9800. www.jewishnewport.com Orange County Walk Now for Autism Speaks December 6: Join thousands of autism supporters and families affected by autism for the 12th annual Orange County Autism Walk. Sunday, 6 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Free registration and resource fair. Angels Stadium of Anaheim, 2000 E. Gene Autry Way, Anaheim. www.walknowforautismspeaks.org Roar Into Chanukah Happening at the Alpert JCC in Long Beach December 6: Join the JCC for a reptile show, photo booths, colossus slide, bounce houses, crafts, obstacle course, sticky wall, face painting, cookie decorating and boutique shops. Kosher lunch items available for purchase. Sunday, 11:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. $10 per child for reptile show and unlimited attractions. Free for adults. 3801 East Willow St., Long Beach. (562) 426-7601. www.alpertjcc.org Target Free First Sunday Festival of Lights in La Habra December 6: Festivals of Lights celebrates in24 kidsguide holiday guide 2015

ternational festivals including Diwali, Hanukkah and Las Posadas. Make beautiful crafts reflecting these cultures traditions. Plus, storytelling and music. Sunday, 1-2:45 p.m. and 3:15-5 p.m.

Free. A total of 500 people are admitted on Target Free Sundays. Hand stamps for both sessions are distributed at 1 p.m. and are on a first-come, first-served basis. There is no museum admittance once all 500 slots are filled. Children’s Museum at La Habra, 301 S. Euclid St. (562) 3834236. www.lhcm.org Target Free First Sunday at the Bowers Museum and Kidseum December 6: Today: Celtic Winter Solstice. Gather family and friends for music, dance, and arts and crafts. Sunday, 11 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Free.

Admission to the permanent exhibitions is sponsored by Target. Festivals are sponsored by The Nicholas Endowment. 1802 N. Main St., Santa Ana. (714) 567-3677. www.bowers.org Tree Lighting and Candlelight Choir December 6: Gather in Plaza Square for an evening of holiday cheer, live music, and family fun. The Orange Master Chorale presents music of the season as a live orchestra and singers fill the night air with song. Youth activities and yummy treats for a nominal charge. Sunday, 3:30 p.m., ceremony begins at 5:15 p.m. Old Towne Orange Plaza. (714) 744-7278. www.cityoforange.org Union Station Youth and Family Tours December 6: Families (5+) explore Union Station, its relationship with Los Angeles, and its train history. Please note: this tour does not include boarding a train. Also offered December 13. Sunday, 11 a.m. $5-10. Reservations required and are found on their website. Parking, $5-15. Tour meets in the Alameda Street entrance lobby, near the information counter. 800 N. Alameda St., Los Angeles. www.laconservancy.org Victorian Christmas at the Bembridge House December 6: Rediscover the magic of an oldetyme Christmas. Experience a family-friendly celebration focused on holiday traditions in this lovingly decorated historic house. There will be refreshments and crafts for kids in the Carriage House, a garden boutique and Christmas caroling by the South Coast Chorale singers. Don’t forget to bring your camera to take lots of holiday photos! Sunday, noon - 4 p.m. $10; kids (10 and under), free. RSVP required. 953 Park Circle, Long Beach. www.lbheritage.org Christmas Tree Lighting in Laguna Niguel December 7: Mingle with friends, munch on cookies, sip hot chocolate and enjoy the songs of the season. Kid’s activities include crafts, photo booth, cookie decorating, balloon twisting and more. Then, watch for Christmas’ most treasured celebrity, Santa Claus! Bring your own camera for pictures. Get into the spirit of giving by donating a new toy to the families of the 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment and the USS McClusky. Saturday, 5-7 p.m. Free admission. Parking is available

at the library, on Hillhurst at the former County Courthouse off Pacific Island Drive (free shuttle from this location). Laguna Niguel City Hall, 30111 Crown Valley Pkwy., Laguna Niguel. (949) 362-4351. www.cityoflagunaniguel.org Grand Re-Opening of the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles December 7: Today is the first day that the Petersen Automotive Museum is open to the general public. The new museum features three themed floors. Visitors are encouraged to start their experience on the “History” floor and work their way down to the “Artistry” floor. By experiencing the museum in this way, visitors are able to better appreciate the impact and application of the automobile. Explore new exhibits and collections, such as Hot Rods and Customs, Precious Metal, Cars Mechanical Institute, Forza Motorsports Racing Experience, Made in Italy and much more. Monday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Adults, $15; teens, $12; and kids (3-12), $7. 6060 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles.

(323) 930-2277. www.petersen.org Tree Lighting Ceremony and Community Sing in Westminster December 7: Visit with Santa during and after the ceremony. Monday, 6-7:30 p.m. Free. Westminster Civic Center, 8200 Westminster Blvd., Westminster.

(714) 895-2860. www.westminster-ca.gov Tree Lighting Ceremony in Downey December 7: Join a tree lighting ceremony with entertainment, a snow play area, arts and crafts, and photos with Santa. Monday, 6-8:30 p.m.; lighting at 6:30 p.m. Downey Civic Center, 11111 Brookshire Ave. (562) 904-1895. www.downeyca.org Tree Lighting in La Habra December 7: Join the city’s tree lighting ceremony with instrumental and vocal performances of holiday songs by local choral groups, soloists and bands. The ceremony concludes with the mayor and city council members throwing the switch that lights the large Coast Redwood planted in front of City Hall. Monday, 6-6:30 p.m. City Hall Steps, 201 E. La Habra Blvd., La Habra. www.lahabracity.com Chanukah Story Time in Huntington Beach December 8: Children come in their PJs for a special Chanukah story time. Dreidels and gelt for all kids.

Tuesday, 7 p.m. Free. Huntington Beach Central Library, 7111 Talbert Ave., Huntington Beach. (714) 863-0757. www.hebrewacademyhb.com Here Comes Santa at the Orange Library Taft Branch December 8: Kids (all ages) meet the big guy himself and tell him their wishes. Parents may bring cameras to take a picture of their child with Santa. Tuesday, 5-6:30 p.m. Free. 740 E. Taft Ave., Orange. (714) 288-2430. www.cityoforange.org/library Holiday Family Night at Fullerton Library December 8: Kids (3-6) can join the library staff for an evening of stories, songs, games, crafts of the season and a surprise or two in the Osborne Auditorium. Tuesday, 6:30 p.m. Free. 353 W. Commonwealth Ave., Fullerton. (714) 738-6338. www.fullertonlibrary.org lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

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Hope for the Holidays Opera Concert in Duarte December 8: Join LA Opera artists for a delightful holiday concert featuring holiday songs and American Songbook favorites. Tuesday, noon - 1 p.m. Free. City of Hope, 1500 E. Duarte Road, Duarte. www.laopera.org AAA Teen Driving Workshop in Mission Viejo December 9: This free interactive workshop provides resources and walks pre-permit teens (14-15) and their parents through many important driving topics, including the California Graduated Driver Licensing components, the risks and responsibilities of driving, the parent’s role in the learning process, how to pick a safe vehicle and what to look for in a driving school.

Wednesday, 6-8:15 p.m. Free; RSVP online. Murray Community Center, 24932 Veterans Way, Mission Viejo. www.aaa.com/safety4teens Tamale Festival and Las Posadas in Placentia December 9: Join the 20th annual Tamale Festival and Las Posadas, featuring a procession re-enacting the travels of Mary and Joseph, live entertainment, and fresh and delicious tamales for sale. Kids will have an

Ice Skating

Outdoor Burbank Outdoor Ice Skating December 10 - January 3: Steps away from hundreds of shops and restaurants decked out for the holiday season. Daily, times vary, check their website for times and special events and themed nights. General admission, $10; skate rentals, $4; and Bobby the Seal rentals, $6. Learn-to-Skate classes on Saturdays, $20 includes lesson, skate rental, and sameday session (no re-entry): kids (5-15), 9-9:25 a.m.; and adults (16+), 9:25-9:50 a.m. Third St. and Orange Grove. www.dtnbur.com/event/the-rink-in-downtown-burbank Downtown Disney Winter Village in Anaheim Through January 6: Lace up your skates and take to the ice on Olafs Frozen Ice Rink. It’s the perfect place to get into the holiday spirit as you glide along to holiday tunes. An entire Downtown Disney Winter Village will spring up around ESPN Zone and AMC Theatres adding extra cheer. Visit quaint holiday cottages, browse for gifts in the shopping chalets and admire a 30-foot Christmas tree. Monday Thursday, 3-10:30 p.m.; and Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 3-11:30 p.m. Adults, $17; kids (3-9), $15; annual passholders and Disney resort hotel guests: adults, $15; kids (3-9), $13. All prices include tax, skate rental and helmets. Anaheim. (714) 7814565. www.tinyurl.com/disneyicerink 26 kidsguide holiday guide 2015

opportunity to visit with Santa Claus, receive a gift and pose for individual pictures. Wednesday, 4-9 p.m. Free to attend. Old Town Placentia. 100-200 Santa Fe Ave., Placentia. www.facebook.com/placentiatamalefest Cypress Community Holiday Sing December 10: Cypress Recreation sponsors this community event featuring school performances, train rides, sledding, cookie decorating, visits with Santa and refreshments. Thursday, 6 p.m. Free. Civic Center Green. (714) 229-6780. www.cypressrec.com Up Up and Away Kids Consignment Sale December 10-13: At Up Up and Away, families can save money and make money at the same time. Consignors earn top dollar for their items while buyers save a ton of money purchasing name-brand, new and nearly new items (clothing, toys, strollers, highchairs, books, outdoor play, etc.) at less than half the cost of department stores. Anything and everything babies and kids need, use and want, all under one roof. You do not need to be a consignor to attend and purchase items. Thursday, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m., Friday

Irvine Spectrum Outdoor Ice Rink Through February 15: The festive outdoor Holiday Ice Rink returns to Giant Wheel Court. Daily, open skate and skate sessions offered. Skate sessions are one hour long, adults and kids with skate rental, $19; without skate rental, $15; toddlers, $15 (skates are included, 8-12T). Helmets are optional but recommended and provided free of charge. Season passes, $199 (includes skate rental). Ice scooter rental, $5 (subject to availability and management’s discretion). Note: Open skate available Monday - Thursday, excluding extended session and holidays. Find open session times and single-session schedules on their website. 71 Fortune Drive, Irvine.

9497488280. www.skatespectrum.com LA Kings Holiday Ice Outdoor Ice Skating November 28 - December 31: The annual LA Kings Holiday Ice brings outdoor ice skating to Nokia Plaza L.A. LIVE in Downtown LA. November 28 - December 13: Monday - Friday, 5-8 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. - midnight; Saturday and Sunday, 3-7, 7:30-9:30, and 10 p.m. midnight. December 14-31: daily, 3-7, 7:30-9:30, and 10 p.m. - midnight. Admission, $10-17. VIP pass, $30.

800 W. Olympic Blvd., Los Angeles. (866) 548-3452. www.lalive.com/events-calendar/holidayice Long Beach Queen Mary’s CHILL November 20 - January 10: Socal’s favorite frozen family event is back and now, one ticket gets you unlimited access! So bring your gloves and parkas and head down to the Queen Mary for some chilly winter fun at Socal’s only frozen winter holiday event. The all-new Dickens-themed Ice Kingdom takes you on an icy journey through the classic “A Christmas Carol.” Also new to CHILL this year is Polar Paintball, North Pole Village, the Enchanted Garden and Hedge Maze. The Ice Kingdom is hand carved from more than two million pounds of ice, and walk through magnificent ice sculptures and slides. Zip down CHILL’s ice tubing run and take a spin on the outdoor ice skating

and Saturday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Sunday, 10 am. - 4 p.m. (Many items 50% off on Sunday). Free to attend. Visit their website for sale address, and more information about consigning, shopping or volunteering. www.upupandawaykidsconsignment.com Breakfast with Santa in Newport Beach December 11: Join a fun breakfast with Santa, plus crafts and photos. Friday, 9:30-11 a.m. $15 per person; kids (2 and under), free. Preregistration required. Newport Coast Community Center, 6401 San Joaquin Hills Road,, Newport Beach. (949) 2708100. www.newportbeach.gov Christmas Prince of Peace Pageant in Long Beach December 11-13: The Prince of Peace Pageant is an event sponsored by six churches with displays telling the story of Christmas, complete with actors and live animals. Enjoy the story of Christmas with a candlelit outdoor walk. Follow the path through many nativity scenes. Delightful singers, musicians, chimes and handbells complete the joyous celebration. Friday - Sunday, 7:30-9 p.m. Performances

rink. And with one ticket unlimited-access, you can go as many times as you wish. Plus, enjoy same-day visit to the majestic Queen Mary. Open daily, excluding November 30, December 7, and January 4, 5 and 6. Online tickets, starting at $24.99. 1126 Queens Highway, Long Beach. (877) 342-0738. www.queenmary.com/chill Pershing Square Outdoor Ice Skating Through January 18: Pershing Square ice rink is open daily including holidays. Special events include DJ Thursday nights, skating exhibitions, Single in the City skate night, a Snoopy on Ice Showcase, the Winter Holiday Festival and the Polar Bear Skate, among others. Call for event dates. General admission: $9 per person; skate or hockey skate rental, $4. Group rates and private party options are available. 532 South Olive St., Los Angeles. (213) 624-4289. www.holidayicerinkdowntownla.com Riverside’s Mission Inn Ice Skating Through January 3: Go for a whirl on the outdoor ice rink at Riverside’s historic Mission Inn Hotel, as part of their 23rd annual Festival of Lights. Through December 20: Monday - Thursday, 4-10 p.m.; Friday, 4-11 p.m.; Saturday, noon - 11 p.m.; Sunday, noon - 10 p.m.

December 21 - January 3: weekdays, noon - 11 p.m.

Christmas Eve: noon - 9 p.m. Closed Christmas. $12 per hour per person; $3 skate rentals. 3649 Mission Inn Ave., Riverside. (951) 826-5273. www.riversideca.gov San Diego Skating by the Sea November 26 - January 7: Hotel Del Coronado’s iconic Victorian building will have thousands of glittering white lights, providing the backdrop for its inaugural DELights and 11th annual Skating by the Sea. The ice rink is located seaside on Windsor Lawn and features views of the Pacific Ocean and Coronado Beach. Daily, call for hours. $25 per person, includes skate rental. 1500 Orange Ave., Coronado. (619) 435-6611. www.hoteldel.com

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and refreshments are free for all. 5500 block of Wardlow Road between Bellflower Blvd. and Woodruff Ave. www.tinyurl.com/LBprinceofpeace Family Art Night at the Norton Simon Museum December 11: Family Art Night presents Holiday Popup Card. What might pop up when you think about the holidays? Is it family, the changing season, a delicious meal? Explore these themes in the Museum’s collections and create a holiday pop-up card for a loved one.

Friday, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Included with admission. Meet at the entrance gallery. 411 Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

(626) 449-6840. www.nortonsimon.org Holiday Cookie Exchange with Lil’ Chefs School December 11: Kids will celebrate the holiday season, make cookies from scratch and take them home for family and friends to enjoy, along with the recipes to make more. They will make Eggnog Cookies, Peppermint Hug Sugar Cookies and White Chocolate Gingerbread Cookies, served with hot cocoa and apple cider. Friday, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Call or visit their website for fees and to register.

Santa Monica Outdoor Ice Skating Through January 18: Slice through the ice in a festive atmosphere filled with holiday cheer and balmy ocean breezes. The rink is periodically cleared for short periods to groom the ice. If raining, the rink will remain open in light rain or drizzle conditions, closing only for heavy downpours. Monday - Thursday, 2-10 p.m.; Friday, 2 p.m. - midnight; Saturday, 11 a.m. - midnight; and Sunday, 11 a.m.- 10 p.m. $15, includes skate rental. Visit their website for holiday and school-break hours. 1324 5th St., Santa Monica. (310) 260-1199. www.downtownsm.com/ice Temecula on Ice December 12 - January 3: Start practicing those double axels and salchows, as Temecula On Ice returns for the holiday season! Features include a state-of-the-art ice rink, comfortable rental skates, the always popular Bobby skating aid and its own radio station playing the best ice skating music in Temecula. Sunday - Thursday, 10 a.m. - 9:30 p.m.; Friday - Saturday, 10 a.m. - 11 p.m. Visit the Web for holiday hours. Admission, $10; skate rental, $5; Bobby skating aid, $6. Town Square Park, 41902 Main St., Temecula. (951) 297-9423. www.temeculaevents.org/iceskating Woodland Hills Outdoor Ice Skating Through January 24: The biggest outdoor ice skating rink in Southern California, Woodland Hills Ice features over 7,000 square feet of 100 percent real ice. The facility is open seven days a week for public skating, learn-to-skate classes, birthday parties and more. Monday - Thursday, 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Friday - Saturday, 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Check the Web for holiday hours and daily schedules. All-day pass, $20; adults (9+), $15; kids (8 and under), $13; kids under 3 are free with paid adult. Season passes and skate mate rental also offered. Westfield Prom-

lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

15435 Jeffrey Road, #132, Irvine. (949) 6798390. www.lilchefschool.com Holiday-Inspired Mommy N’ Me Baking with Lil’ Chefs School in Irvine December 11: You and your tiny chef (3-5) can enjoy this holiday-inspired Mommy N’ Me baking class with Lil’ Chefs. Together, learn to make Candy Cane Cookies from scratch, and enjoy hot chocolate. Visit their website to register. Friday, 1-2 p.m. 15435 Jeffrey Road., #132, Irvine. (949) 6798390. www.lilchefschool.com Holly Jolly Light Tour in Mission Viejo December 11-12: Enjoy a VIP reception and tour the home lighting contest displays aboard deluxe transportation. Friday and Saturday, reception at 5 and tour at 6-7:30; and reception at 7 and tour at 8-9:30 p.m. $10 per person. (949) 470-3062. www.mvactivities.com Kids’ Night Out In Cypress December 11: Kids (5-12), get ready for a fun night

enade, 6100 Topanga Canyon Blvd., Woodland Hills.

(818) 854-4151. www.woodlandhillsice.com

Indoor • East West Ice Palace 11446 Artesia Blvd., Artesia (562) 809-6200 www.eastwesticepalace.com Ice rink offers public skating, skating classes for kids (3+) and adults, freestyle sessions, in-house hockey, hockey classes, youth travel hockey league, adult hockey league, stick time and broomball. Competitive synchronized skating teams and classes also available.

A collection of Michelle Kwan memorabilia is available in the gallery. Fitness center is open to the public and offers group exercise classes. Check website for details on ice schedule and events. See ad on page 17.

• The Rinks Anaheim ICE (714) 535-RINK Huntington Beach Inline (714) 901-2629 Irvine Inline (949) 559-9949 Lakewood ICE (562) 429-1805 Westminster ICE (714) 248-9611 Yorba Linda ICE (714) 692-8776 www.The-Rinks.com Guests of all ages enjoy skating at The Rinks. With several daily public skating sessions, skate rentals and full-service snack bars, they offer the coolest fun for you and your friends! Plus, The Rinks offer a variety of learn-to-skate and hockey programs for all ages and skill levels. For skating session times, prices and class information, visit them online or call. Locations: 300 W. Lincoln Ave., Anaheim; 5555 McFadden Ave., Huntington Beach; 3150 Barranca Pkwy., Irvine; 3975 Pixie Ave., Lakewood; 13071 Springdale, Westmin-

out with friends. This program will have kids busy the whole night with games, crafts, a movie, dinner and dessert. Parents take this opportunity to catch a movie, check out a new restaurant, or have a quiet night at home. Friday, 6-10 p.m. $15 per child. Minimum enrollment is required two days prior to date.

(714) 229-6780. www.cypressrec.com Long Beach Daisy Avenue Tree Lighting and Parade December 11-12: Celebrating its 62nd year, see the brightest street in Long Beach light up during a Friday night ceremony. Come back the following night for the Daisy Avenue Christmas Tree Lane Parade!

Bring blankets and chairs. Friday, 7 p.m.; and Saturday, 5 p.m. Daisy Ave., between Hill St. and PCH. (562) 570-7777. www.longbeach.gov/district7 Nocturnal Walk in Black Star Canyon December 11: Families enjoy an easy night hike through Black Star Canyon which is home to many nocturnal animals that forage at night, and are guided by the night sky. This program is appropriate

Indoor Outdoor ster; and 23641 La Palma Ave., Yorba Linda. See ad on page 15.

More Indoor Ice rinks: Aliso Viejo Ice Palace (949) 643-9648 Ice only. Skating and hockey (2½+). 9 Journey, Aliso Viejo. www.avicepalace.com

KHS Ice Arena (714) 422-1236 Ice only. Hockey clubs. Broomball also offered. 1000 E. Cerritos Ave., Anaheim.www.khsice.com

Lake Forest Ice Palace (949) 305-9658 Ice only. Figure skating and hockey available. 25821 Atlantic Ocean Drive, Lake Forest. www.lficepalace.com

Paramount Iceland (562) 633-1171 Ice only. Skating school, freestyle, broomball and hockey. 8041 Jackson St. www.tinyurl.com/PIskate

kidsguide holiday guide 2015 27

for the whole family and will include various stops to discuss nocturnal wildlife and stars. This is not a paved trail, no strollers please. Evenings in the canyon are chilly, please dress warm. This program will be presented in English and Spanish. Friday, 6-8 p.m. Visit website to register. (949) 640-9956. www.letsgooutside.org Open House and Concert on Catalina Island December 11: Enjoy free admission and gift-shop discounts at the Catalina Island Museum, followed by a Holiday Symphony Concert in the historic Casino Theatre, featuring an ensemble from one of the top universities on the West Coast, the distinguished Stanford Symphony Orchestra. Friday, open house, 4 p.m.; concert, 7 p.m. Free. www.catalinamuseum.org Parade of Lights in Dana Point Harbor December 11-12 and 18-19: The annual boat parade of light sails into the harbor. Friday and Saturday, 7:30 p.m. Free to spectate by the water’s edge.

(949) 496-5794. www.danapointharbor.com Pennypickle’s Winter Wonderland in Temecula December 11: A night for families to have fun and make memories, visit Santa, be entertained, and enjoy a festive evening of “chilled” surprises. Dress warmly because this event is held outside and there’s real snow to play in! Friday, 5-8:30 p.m.

Activity prices vary, cookie decorating in the dining room, $5 per cookie (five tickets) and Snowball Playland in the music room for kids up to age 6 only, $3 per child for 15 minutes (three tickets per child).

You can pre-purchase tickets and reserve your time slot for cookie decorating and Snowball Playland by phone. 42081 Main St., Temecula. (951) 308-6376. www.pennypickles.org 3D Printer Instruction for Teens in La Habra December 12: Teens print out interesting designs on the 3D printer or even make some of their own inventions, like an ornament for the holidays. Flash drives are recommended but not mandatory. Saturday, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. La Habra Library, 221 E. La Habra Blvd., La Habra.

(714) 526-7728. www.ocpl.org/libloc/habra • Asian-American Santa at JANM December 12: Have your photo taken with AsianAmerican Santa in Nerdbot’s Hawaiian-style photo booth—a JANM holiday tradition! Saturday, noon - 3 p.m. Free! 100 N. Central Ave., Los Angeles. (213) 625-0414. www.janm.org/events.

See ad on page 31.

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28 kidsguide holiday guide 2015

Breakfast with Santa in Huntington Beach December 12: Put on your best holiday gear and bring the family to enjoy festivities including a pancake breakfast, holiday music, arts and crafts, and a picture with Santa. Saturday, 8:30-10:30 a.m.; and 9:30-11:30 a.m. $10 per person; registration required, space is limited. Murdy Community Center, 7000 Norma Drive, Huntington Beach. (714) 9608884. www.huntingtonbeachca.gov Breakfast With Santa In Seal Beach December 12: Enjoy a holiday breakfast with Santa, bounce houses and photo opportunity. Saturday, 8-10:30 a.m. Free; first-come, first-served.

151 Marina Drive. (562) 431-2527, Ext. 1344. www.sealbeachca.gov lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

Candlelight Walks at Heritage Hill December 12-13: Two enchanting evenings with luminary-lit paths, park aglow with holiday lighting, strolls through restored historic buildings adorned in holiday decor, carolers, live entertainment, storytellers, visits with Santa, and refreshments available for a nominal fee. Saturday - Sunday, 5:30-8:30 p.m. Admission, $5. 25151 Serrano Road, Lake Forest. (949) 9232232. www.ocparks.com/historic/heritage • Christmas Countdown at Pretend City December 12-23: It’s time to begin the 12 Days of Christmas Countdown! The weeks that lead up to Christmas are an exciting and magical time for young children. The wait for Christmas day can seem almost endless. These daily activities will help to channel your young child’s anticipation into simple activities that celebrate the holiday. 29 Hubble, Irvine. (949) 4283900. www.pretendcity.org. See ad on page 37.

• Christmas Ornament Sewing Party and Breakfast in Long Beach December 12: Enjoy a morning of hand-sewing felt Christmas ornaments and yummy breakfast. Includes three ornaments. Breakfast consists of fairy pancakes, granola, fruit and juice. Saturday, 9:30-11 a.m. Kids, $28, includes one adult. Dream Come True Party Room, 3962 N. Studebaker Road, Ste. 204. (562) 270-1400. www.dreamcometruepartyroom.com. See ad on page 33.

Christmas Parade in Whittier December 12: Bands, floats and community groups march up Greenleaf Avenue in Historic Uptown Whittier during the 63rd Annual Christmas Parade. Saturday, 10 a.m. - noon. Free. Whittier Boulevard and Greenleaf Ave. www.whittieruptown.org Christmas Tree Lane Lighting in Altadena December 12: For the 95th year, officials flip the switch on a mile of deodar cedar Christmas trees strung with 10,000 lights at the oldest, large-scale Christmas lighting spectacle in the country. Includes holiday treats, entertainment, community booths and photos with Santa.

Saturday, festival 2 p.m., lighting ceremony 6 p.m. Walk the lane and see the lights from dusk to midnight through January 1. Santa Rosa Ave. between Woodbury Ave. and Altadena Drive, Altadena. www.christmastreelane.net Christmas Vacation at LA’s Historic Palace Theatre December 12: The Griswold family’s plans for a big family Christmas predictably turn into a big disaster (PG13). Get your seasonal cheer on as you find strolling Christmas carolers and holiday food galore inside the theater’s cornucopia of sweet and savory options. Saturday, doors open at 6 p.m., movie at 8 p.m. $20. 630 S. Broadway, Los Angeles. www.streetfoodcinema.com Cookies with Santa in Signal Hill December 12: Kids visit Santa and enjoy cookies.

Saturday, 1-2:30 and 3:30-5:30 p.m. $5 per person, preregistration required. 1780 E. Hill St., Signal Hill.

(562) 989-7330. www.cityofsignalhill.org Countdown to Christmas at the Homestead Museum December 12: Celebrate the season of sharing at the Homestead. Enjoy self-guided tours of the museum’s decorated historic houses, sing along with lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

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kidsguide holiday guide 2015 29

festive carolers, and visit with Santa Claus. Make a variety of crafts (perfect for gift-giving!) and ride a trackless train for a small fee. Sweet treats will be available for purchase. Saturday, noon - 4 p.m.

Admission, $2-4. Bring an unwrapped toy valued at $10 or more and your group will be admitted free.

15415 E. Don Julian Road, City of Industry. (626) 968-8493. www.homesteadmuseum.org Dickens Day Celebration in Carson December 12-13: The highlight will be Mr. Charles Dickens himself entertaining guests in the museum’s Heritage Theater retelling “A Christmas Carol” and becoming Scrooge, while randomly using his audience as cast members. Be sure to come dressed in your finest Victorian dress because it would be humbug otherwise! Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. with three shows each day. $20, advance tickets are highly recommended and group discount is available. The International Printing Museum, 315 Torrance Blvd., Carson. (310) 5157166. www.printmuseum.org Family Sailing and BBQ in Newport Beach December 12: Families enjoy learning the basics of sailing or refresh their skills on a Harbor 20 keelboat with the instructor aboard. Bring food to grill on the BBQs to top off your sailing adventure. Saturday, 10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. and 2-5 p.m. Family consists of three to five participants. Fee per person, $50-55.

Newport Sea Base, 1931 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach. Registration through Irvine Community Services Department. www.quickreg.ci.irvine.ca.us Family Walk in Black Star Canyon December 12: Enjoy an early evening family (ages 8+) hike in Black Star Canyon. Hike along a flat trail and cross a creek and watch for red-tailed hawks and mule deer. The hike averages two to three miles round trip (easy pace with a medium level of interpretation). Level-2. This program is for participants who would enjoy a slower-paced and level hike. Wear comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes, and bring water for the hike. Be ready to enjoy the sounds and smells of early evening. Saturday, 3-5 p.m. Visit their website to register. www.letsgooutside.org Fishing with Santa at Whittier Narrows December 12: Annual derbies provide an opportunity for kids (2-15) to enjoy fishing while competing for prizes and trophies. This morning, Santa joins in the fun! Saturday, 8 a.m. - noon; registration begins at 8 a.m. Free. Whittier Narrows, 823 LexingtonGallatin Road, South El Monte. (916) 322-8911. www.wildlife.ca.gov • Gliding thru the Holiday Cinemas at The Rinks Lakewood ICE December 12: Come to The Rinks - Lakewood ICE for their 6th Annual Holiday Show, “Gliding Thru the Holiday Cinemas.” Tickets go on sale December 1 at www.showtix4u.com and will also be available for purchase one hour before each show at the door. Saturday, show times, 2 and 5:30 p.m.

3975 Pixie Ave, Lakewood. (562) 429-1805, Ext. 228. www.lakewoodice.com. See ad on page 15.

• Holiday Hoedown and Ranch-Style Breakfast at Rancho Los Alamitos December 12: Please join family and friends at 30 kidsguide holiday guide 2015

Rancho Los Alamitos to create another year of holiday memories. The program, designed for families with children age 12 years and under, features Santa and Mrs. Claus greeting boys and girls, a scrumptious breakfast buffet, California Cowboy Band, pony rides, petting corral with barnyard animals, holiday games and crafts, and activities.

Children can also write and mail a letter to Santa and they will receive a response! Parking is available at CSULB Parking Lot 11A with shuttle service to the Rancho. Saturday, 9 a.m. - noon. Reservations required. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit their website or call the number listed. This event is a sell-out every year, so please reserve your tickets as soon as possible. 6400 E. Bixby Hill Road, Long Beach. (562) 431-3541. www.rancholosalamitos.org. See ad on page 20.

Holiday Merriment at the Homestead Museum December 12: Christmas in Southern California changed dramatically between the days of the Mexican ranchos and the Roaring Twenties. Partake in holiday merriment exploring the museum’s beautifully decorated historic houses. Saturday, 3-7 p.m.; tours depart every 30 minutes. $12-15. Ticket price includes a reception with wine, hors d’oeuvres, and live music; along with a keepsake wineglass for parents. 15415 E. Don Julian Road, City of Industry.

(626) 968-8493. www.homesteadmuseum.org • JANM Free Family Days: Mele Kalikimaka December 12: Celebrate the holidays, JANM style! KoAloha Ukulele will lead musical performances, hands-on workshops, crafts, and other holiday-inspired ukulele fun. Plus, take a special holiday photo with Asian American Santa (available until 3 p.m. only). Sunday from 11 a.m. 4 p.m. Free. 100 N. Central Ave., Los Angeles.

(213) 625-0414. www.janm.org/familydays. See ad on page 31.

Kids Bop Kids Make Some Noise Tour at Club Nokia December 12: Kids Bop Kids are talented young performers Ashlynn, Bredia, Grant and Matt who sing on the best-selling Kidz Bop albums. Their latest release, Kidz Bop 29, debuted at #4 on the Billboard Top 200 chart. Saturday, doors open at 11 a.m.; show starts at noon. $25-100. 800 West Olympic Blvd., Los Angeles. (888) 929-7849. www.clubnokia.com LA International Children’s Film Festival December 12-13: The 11th annual festival will present full-length and short animated, live action and documentary films from around the world, for toddlers to teens. Filmmakers and actors will be present for question-and-answer sessions after each screening.

Saturday - Sunday, films start at 10:30 a.m. Free. Los Angeles County Museum of Art. www.lacma.org Lakeshore Learning’s Free Saturday Workshops December 12: Kids (3+) can create a Holiday Wreath. Saturday, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. No reservations necessary. Carson, (310) 537-4778; Fountain Valley, (714) 963-8255; and Laguna Hills, (949) 462-9353. www.lakeshorelearning.com/freecrafts4kids

Naples Boat Parade in Long Beach December 12: Twinkling Christmas lights decorate the small boats that cruise the canals of Naples, while larger boats sail through the bay. Hundreds of homes and boats are festively decorated throughout the season, inspired by an annual decorating competition. Saturday, 6 p.m. Free to spectate. Long Beach.

(562) 598-9401. www.naplesca.com Riley Wilderness Park Loop in Coto De Caza December 12: Families with kids (5+) are welcome to join the Sierra Club’s Little Hikers for a moderately paced 3.5-mile round-trip, 200-foot gain hike through the valleys and ridges of the wilderness park in the foothills of the Santa Ana Mountains. Saturday, 9 a.m. Meet at the parking lot in the park at the east end of Oso Parkway.

Bring water, munchies, sturdy shoes. Free; parking, $3. Rain/recent rain cancels. 30952 Oso Pkwy., Coto De Caza. www.littlehikers.org Santa Run 5/10K and Kids’ Fun Run in Irvine December 12: Wear your Santa hat and holiday costume to Orange County’s best holiday run. It’s stroller-friendly! Medals are given to the top three finishers by age group, plus prizes for the best running Santa, best non-Santa holiday costume and best kids’ holiday costume. Saturday, races start at 8 a.m., kids half mile fun run, 10 a.m. $25-45.

Hicks Canyon Elementary School. Free shuttles from Beckman High School, 3817 Viewpark Ave., Irvine. www.renegaderaceseries.com Snoopy House in Costa Mesa December 12-23: The Snoopy House display has been an Orange County tradition for more than 48 years. Snoopy House features holiday scenes and is available for nightly viewing. Daily, 5:30-9 p.m. with Santa visits from 7-9 p.m. Free. Costa Mesa City Hall, 77 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa. (714) 7545300. www.tinyurl.com/cmsnoopyhouse Southern California Children’s Chorus Holiday Concert December 12: Enjoy the Southern California Children’s Chorus as they perform their Christmas concert. Saturday, 5 p.m. Please call for ticket purchase.

Calvary Church Santa Ana. 1010 N. Tustin, Santa Ana. (949) 250-9114. www.sccchorus.org Stocking Workshops with Fashion Camp December 12 and 19: Kids create Christmas stockings. No sewing required. All ages welcome.

Project will take about an hour to complete. Saturdays, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. $25. The District in Tustin Legacy, 2477 Park Ave., Tustin. (714) 259-0946. www.fashioncampoc.com Surfing Santa and Live Concert at the Redondo Beach Pier December 12: Surfing Santa makes his annual appearance along with a holiday concert and Surfing Santa photo ops. Saturday, 3-5 p.m. Free admission and parking. The event benefits Love in the Mirror, a youth-led charity and their annual toy drive for homeless and disadvantaged youth.

Attendees are invited to bring a new unwrapped toy valued at $5 or more in exchange for a chance to win prizes. 100 Fisherman’s Wharf, Redondo Beach. www.redondopier.com lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

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Family Day in El Segundo December 13: Meet up with friends or bring your family for a day of fun! Explore Experience 19: TOUCH, put on your Art Detective cap and search for clues in a Scavenger Hunt, and make art inspired by some LA’s legendary Art-making Cannot beofapplied toartists. the last twomaterials all ages single and abilityday levels.

10 a.m. - 5 weeks offorcamp, orSunday, 1/2 days. p.m. Free. El Segundo Museum of Art, 208 Main St., El Segundo. (424) 277-1020. www.esmoa.org

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Jenny Nocco (562) 477-9034 JennyNocco888@gmail.com • Vans Skatepark Holiday Skate Clinics December 12: Vans Skatepark in Orange, a 40,000-square-foot facility, offers two different Holiday Clinics on Saturday, December 12 and 19. Instruction is offered for beginner to advanced street skateboarders, ages 6-16. Pizza lunch is included. Clinic hours: 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. $40 for members; $50 for non-members. Space is limited, so sign up today. 20 City Blvd., West, Orange. (714) 769-3800. www.vans.com. See ad on page 13.

Artist and Author Jan Brett Book Signing in Newport Beach December 13: Meet Jan Brett as she discusses her book, “The Turnip,” signs books and gives an illustration demo. Sunday, 5 p.m.; book sales will begin at 4 p.m.

Due to time constraints, signing will be limited to books purchased at this event. Seating is on first-come, firstserved basis, limited by room capacity. Free admission, first 100 families will receive a free signed poster. Central Library Friends Room, 1000 Avocado Ave., Newport Beach. (949) 717-3830. www.awhaleofatale.com Daisy Avenue Entertainment Nights in Long Beach December 13, 18, 19 and 20: Head to the brightest street in Long Beach, Daisy Avenue’s Christmas Tree Lane, for free holiday entertainment. Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 7 p.m. Free. Daisy Ave. between Hill St. and PCH. 101 E. 28th St., Long Beach. (562) 5707777. www.longbeach.gov/district7

32 kidsguide holiday guide 2015

Family Flick Presents the Sound of Music at the Hammer Museum December 13: In its 50th anniversary year, the classic musical screens at the Hammer. Julie Andrews stars as an Austrian governess who restores joy to seven young charges and to film audiences. All ages are welcome. Feel free to take a break with infants and toddlers in the theater lobby, where the films are simulcast on a large monitor. Sunday, 11 a.m. Free.

10899 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles. (310) 443-7000. www.hammer.ucla.edu • Figure Skating Show at East West Ice Palace December 13: The show will feature skaters from their Basic Skills Learn-to-Skate program in choreographed group numbers, as well as solo performances by EWIP singles and pair skaters who are regional, sectional, and national-level competitors. Sunday, 1:15 p.m. Also offered on December 20, 6:15 p.m.

Contact for adult admission price; kids 5 and under, free. 11446 Artesia Blvd., Artesia. (562) 809-6200. www.eastwesticepalace.com. See ad on page 17.

Free Concert at Nixon Library December 13: Tap your toes along with the Kid Singers, conducted by Paul McNeff. Sunday, 12:30 p.m.

Free. East room. 18001 Yorba Linda Blvd., Yorba Linda. (714) 993-5075. www.nixonfoundation.org Geminid Meteor Shower Viewing at Limestone Canyon December 13: Gear up for this amazing star-gazing night and capture this season’s meteor shower! The evening begins by stretching out under the stars to capture one of this season’s spectacular outer galactic shows. View the different stars, constellations and hear stories of astronomy folklore and watch for meteors crossing the night sky. Please dress in warm layers as the evening is cool against the canyon.

Also, you are welcome to bring your own blankets and chairs to sit and enjoy the show. This program will not include a hike. Sunday, 7-9 p.m. Visit the website to register. 18751 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach. www.letsgooutside.org Hanukkah Family Festival at Skirball December 13: Celebrate Hanukkah with music, dance, art making, storytelling, and a host of other family-friendly activities that explore the themes of hope, courage and perseverance. Families of all backgrounds welcome! Sunday, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Adults, $10; kids (under 12), free. Los Angeles. (310) 440-4500. www.skirball.org Holiday Ice Show in Paramount December 13: Paramount Iceland presents a holiday show that features more than 40 local and international skaters of all ages and levels. Sunday, 5-7 p.m.

Call for ticket prices. 8041 Jackson St., Paramount.

(562) 633-1171. www.paramounticeland.com

Live Nativity Play and International Celebration at Old World December 13: Each year Old World Village plays host to the International Celebration of Christmas, a celebration that brings together a diverse group of churches, singers and dancers for a celebration that highlights the true meaning of the holiday season. All proceeds and donations from the event benefit local charities. Sunday, 6 p.m. Call (714) 390-9493 for more details. 7561 Center Ave., Huntington Beach.

(714) 895-8020. www.oldworld.ws Magnificat Messiah and Meritage in Anaheim December 13: A holiday concert featuring J.S. Bach’s Magnificat and G.F. Handel’s Messiah along with seasonal favorites. Sunday, 4 p.m. $21. Anaheim United Methodist Church, 1000 S. State College Blvd., Anaheim. (714) 519-6370. www.focmusic.org Old Time Christmas Festival at Rancho Los Cerritos December 13: This popular holiday festival begins with music, storytellers, crafts and activities, and even a visit from Santa, amidst the lavishly decorated adobe home. Once the sun goes down, the Rancho will be lit by candles and oil lamps, and costumed living-history docents will share their memories of Victorian-era holidays at the Rancho.

Light refreshments will be served. Sunday, 1-7 p.m. $5. 4600 Virginia Road, Long Beach. (562) 2062040. www.rancholoscerritos.org Posada Navideña at the Anaheim Marketplace December 13: Watch Christmas carolers as they sing throughout the Marketplace ending at the Nativity set with a re-enactment of Mary and Joseph. Live festive music, plus a piñata breaking to end festivities. Saturday, noon - 4 p.m. 1440 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim. (714) 999-0888. www.anaheimindoormarketplace.com Queen Anne Cottage Holiday Tours at the Los Angeles County Arboretum December 13: Stroll down memory lane and view treasures and furnishings normally seen only through the windows of the charming Victorian-era cottage. The dwelling, decorated in its Christmas finery, has become a Southland tradition for holiday visitors. Tours will be available throughout the day; also stop by the historic Coach Barn of the Santa Anita Depot. Sunday, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Free with admission; $3 suggested tour donation. 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia. www.arboretum.org Santa and the Polar Express in Lomita December 13: Visit with Santa and enjoy a special reading of “The Polar Express” at the Lomita Railroad Museum. Bring the entire family—there will be lots of activities for the kids and a free photo with Santa!

Sunday, 1-4 p.m. $10 per family. 2137 W. 250th St., Lomita. (310) 326-6255. www.lomita-rr.org Santa Visits Lil’ Devils in Long Beach December 13: Bring family, friends, kids and pets for a visit and picture with Santa. Sunday, noon. $5 per sitting, download and print as many copies as you want. 2218 4th St., Long Beach. (562) 439-0555. www.facebook.com/lildevilsboutique Sounds of the Season with the All-American Boys’ Chorus December 13: Join the All-American Boys’ Chorus lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

Storytime • Happy Hour • Weekly Tea Time • Play Dates • Meeting Space • Parties Specializing in theme parties with style and charm!

(562) 270-1400 dreamcometruepartyroom.com 3962 Studebaker Road, Ste. 204, Long Beach

lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

Upcoming Events Christmas Ornament Sewing Party and Breakfast: Dec. 12 Alice in Wonderland Tea Party: Dec. 19 Before the Ball Princess School and Dance Party: Jan. 23

kidsguide holiday guide 2015 33

CHILL at the Queen Mary in Long Beach November 20 - January 10: Bring your gloves and parkas and head down to the Queen Mary for some chilly winter fun at Socal’s only frozen winter holiday event. The all-new Dickens-themed Ice Kingdom takes you on an icy journey through the classic “A Christmas Carol.” Also new to CHILL this year is Polar Paintball, North Pole Village, the Enchanted Garden and Hedge Maze. The Ice Kingdom is hand carved from more than two million pounds of ice, and walk through magnificent ice sculptures and slides. Zip down CHILL’s ice tubing run and take a spin on the outdoor ice skating rink. And with one ticket unlimited-access, you can go as many times as you wish.

Plus enjoy same-day visit to the majestic Queen Mary. Open daily, excluding November 30, December 7, and January 4, 5 and 6. Online tickets, starting at $24.99. 1126 Queens Highway, Long Beach. (877) 342-0738. www.queenmary.com/chill • Columbia Memorial Space Center 12400 Columbia Way, Downey (562) 231-1200 www.columbiaspacescience.org Hands-on learning center that is dedicated to bringing the wonder and excitement of space science to children of all ages. It also serves as the national memorial for the Space Shuttle Columbia’s seven crew members, lost in 2003. The 20,000-square-foot visitor center is equipped with not only amazing technology and visual teaching exhibits, but also constantly holds engaging classes and workshops. The Space Center also hosts the only Challenger Learning Center in the greater Los Angeles area, where you can: Return to the Moon, or go on a Voyage to Mars, and experience the real-life excitement of working in Mission Control or in the Spacecraft; available for field trips, team-building exercises and parties of 16 or more.

Tuesday - Saturday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Closed Sunday and Monday. $5 per person (4+). See ad on page 29.

• Discovery Cube 2500 North Main St., Santa Ana (714) 542-2823 www.discoverycube.org Discovery Cube Orange County is filled with interactive and hands-on exhibits in themed areas including: Inspector Training Course, Helicopter Tours, Boeing Rocket Lab, Eco Challenge, Dino Quest and Science of Hockey. Visitors will explore science like never before with a virtual earthquake, hurricane simulator, a cloud maker and more! Check out “Hot Wheels – Race to Win” (open now!), “Science of Gingerbread” (opening November 27) and “Winter Wonderfest” (opening December 12). There’s always something new to explore at the Cube! Field trips, outreach, special events, sleepovers and teacher workshops are also available. See ad on page 5.

Festival of Lights at The Mission Inn Hotel November 27 - January 3: Your family will be swept away by more than 3.6 million+ brilliant lights transforming Riverside’s historic hotel into magic. In addition to the external light display, throughout the season The Mission Inn Hotel and Spa features a decorated Christmas tree, appearances by Santa Claus and Dickensian carolers singing cheerful holiday tunes, authentic horse-drawn carriages, live reindeer, and hundreds of characters dressed in 17th century costumes to entertain crowds and evoke the spirit of the season. Daily, 5:30-11 p.m. Note: Day trip visitors can also extend their Festival of Lights tour by dining, shopping or taking in High Tea. Plus, you can stay the night, check out the Festival of Lights room packages.

3649 Mission Inn Ave., Riverside. (951) 784-0300. www.riversideca.gov/fol • Fillmore & Western Railway Co. Santa Clara and Central Ave., Fillmore. (805) 5242546. www.fwry.com. See ad on page 8.

Christmas Tree Train - Weekends, November 28 December 13: Take a train ride to a private Christmas tree farm, where you can find the perfect precut tree or cut your own (there are limited numbers of cut your own due to drought). Crews net the tree and stack it on the flatcar for the ride back to Fillmore. Food and beverages are served on board, and you can shop at the Caboose Garden Center and Gift Emporium. Saturday and Sunday, departures at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Adults, $25; youth (412), $15; kids (2-3), $10.

North Pole Express Train - November 28, December 4-6, 11-13, 16-23 and 26: Celebrate Christmas with a one-hour ride aboard a vintage train. Wear your pajamas, dress warm, and remember to bring your camera to take pictures with Santa after the train ride. Vendors will be on-site so you can purchase unique holiday gifts. Train departs at 6 and 7:30 p.m.; additional 4:45 p.m. departures on December 19-23. Adults, $29; kids (2-12), $19.

Santa Shopper Train - December 19-20: During the last weekend before Christmas, take a train ride to the Loose Caboose Garden Center and Gift Emporium for those great last-minute Christmas gifts. If you still need a perfect tree, it’s just a short walk to the Tree Farm where you can buy one and haul it back on the train. Saturday and Sunday, noon. Adults, $25; youth (4-12), $12; kids (2-3), $10.

Dinner with Santa on a Train - December 21 and 22: Gather the family for a holiday dinner hosted by Santa Claus. Have your wish list ready, and be sure to bring a camera for a photo with Ol’ Saint Nick. Dinner includes a choice of turkey or ham with all the fixings and a holiday dessert. Monday and Tuesday, departs at 5:30 p.m. and returns at 7:30 p.m. Adults, $47; kids (2-12), $26.

• Golf N’ Stuff Family Fun Park December 1-31: With Golf N’ Stuff’s “North Pole Fun Pack,” the kids can enjoy two full hours unlimited use of go-karts, bumper boats, bumper cars, Disk ‘O Thrill ride and kiddie train. Plus, enjoy one round of miniature golf, a cool cookie and a 12-ounce soda. All for just $16 per person (prices subject to change without notice). Park opens

daily at 10 a.m.; they’re even open on Christmas Day at 2 p.m. 10555 E. Firestone Blvd., Norwalk.

(562) 868-9956. www.golfnstuff.com. See ad on page 25.

• Holiday Skate Center 175 N. Wayfield St., Orange (714) 997-5515 www.holidayskate.com Holiday Skate Center is one of the premier family fun entertainment centers in the Orange County area. They pride themselves on providing a clean, safe, friendly, and fun facility for your entire family. They offer skating for all ages, as well as birthday parties, private parties and fundraiser options. Call today to book your event!

Enjoy their Christmas Special: two can skate for the price of one during winter break, December 21 - January 10; see ad on page 14 for coupon.

Irvine Park Railroad Christmas Train November 27 - December 23: Tis 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 Santa Claus. The train will depart from the brightly-lit train station and drop passengers off at the North Pole. Children can share their wish list with Santa and have their photo taken with him too. You may take pictures with your personal camera or you may purchase a photo taken by Irvine Park Railroad. Daily, visit their website for train times. Admission, online purchase only: general, $12; infants (under 24 months), free. Check their website for more activities and their fees. Irvine Regional Park, Orange.

(714) 997-3968. www.irvineparkrailroad.com Irvine Spectrum Disney Holiday Light Show November 27 - January 3: This special tree lighting moment occurs throughout the night, with showtimes beginning at 5:30 p.m. and running every hour to closing. New sparkling effects and lighting “magic” will bring the tree to life this year, along with a delightful new holiday soundtrack.

And of course, everyone enjoys hearing the voice of Mickey Mouse, who leads a holiday sing-along.

It’s a sparkling moment of magic and wonder for the whole family to enjoy! Irvine Spectrum, Edwards Court, 71 Fortune Drive, Irvine. (949) 753-5180. www.shopirvinespectrumcenter.com Jungle Bells at San Diego Zoo December 12-23, 25-31, and January 1-3: The San Diego Zoo’s annual winter celebration, Jungle Bells is back and this year, filled with holiday cheer! During the three-week wintery celebration, guests can experience holiday-themed animal presentations and a nightly tree lighting ceremony, as well as other festive activities. Daily, zoo, 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. for the Jungle Bells celebration, most of the activities concentrated in the early evening from 4-8 p.m. Included with zoo admission. 2920 Zoo Drive, San Diego. (619) 2311515. www.sandiegozoo.org L.A. Zoo Lights and Reindeer Romp November 27 - January 3: With the flick of a switch, the zoo is set aglow with breathtaking displays, including thousands upon thousands of LED lights, flurries of illuminated snowflakes, stunning 3-D animated pro-

jections and glittering light tunnels. See real reindeer, visits with Santa Claus (select dates), and enjoy steaming hot chocolate, churros and other holiday goodies for sale. Daily, except Christmas Eve and Christmas.

Adults, $13-16; kids (2-12), $11-14. 5333 Zoo Drive, Los Angeles. (323) 644-4200. www.lazoolights.org • Pirate’s Dinner Adventure 7600 Beach Blvd., Buena Park (714) 690-1497 www.piratesdinneradventureca.com In the spirit of the holidays, join Pirate’s Dinner Adventure’s “Pirates Take Christmas” for a night of fun and adventure, as they bring a holiday twist to the high seas! Help cheer on Santa to save Christmas: scoundrel pirates have captured Santa and Mrs. Claus, threatening an end to the holiday season and disappointing all of the good girls and boys of the world. You and your family and a little holiday magic can help ensure Santa defeats the pirates and saves the season. Plus, enjoy a traditional holiday dinner offered all month long. Buy one adult ticket at general admission and receive an additional ticket of equal or lesser value when you mention code KIDSBOGO15; good for shows through December 30, 2015; see ad on page 19 for restrictions.

Train to Santa’s Workshop in Perris December 5-6, 12-13 and 19-20: Climb aboard Santa’s North Pole Special and embark on a magical train ride and visit with Santa Claus himself at his North Pole workshop. Ride the train where Santa’s elf “Jingles” will lead your family in Christmas songs, holiday trivia games and storytelling. Santa greets the guests as they arrive at the workshop. Visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus at the play area where children can play on Thomas play tables and do various craft activities. Enjoy refreshments at the Pinacate Station boarding area. Saturday and Sunday, call for times. $10-15. Trains fill up fast, so make your reservation early. Empire Railway Museum, 2201 S. A St., Perris. (951) 943-3020. www.oerm.org Winter Fest OC in Costa Mesa December 18 - January 3: Experience winter with a wonderland of attractions and entertainment. Attractions include sliding down a six-lane ice hill on an innertube, ice skating rink with private rink-side VIP cabanas in the Hanger Building, Christmas lights and decorations and a nightly tree lighting celebration with snow fall. Plus walk-thru and take pictures with the world’s largest ornament! Winter Fest also includes stage and strolling entertainment from magic shows to carolers, arts, crafts and games for kids in the North Pole building, and North Pole LTD trackless train, 30 carnival rides and games in the Midway, season-inspired foods, and of course Santa Claus.

Daily, 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.; except Christmas day, 2-11 p.m. Admission: $15-25. Ice slide fastpass, unlimited ride wristbands, season passes and VIP Cabanas are also available for purchase. 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa. www.winterfestoc.com Winter Zoobilation at Santa Ana Zoo December 1-31: The Santa Ana Zoo will be transformed into a winter wonderland called Winter Zoobilation, with magical decorations, faerie lights and falling snow. Guests will be treated to beautiful, original hand-crafted decorations, perfect for pictures, that depict Santa’s Workshop, sweet shop and post office. The Zoofari Express Train ride and

Attractions KIdsguide’s list of fun holiday picks for winter-break. From train rides with Santa and reindeer romps at the zoo to seasonal attractions at local theme parks, our list is a great place to start holiday traditions for your family. Be sure to visit websites before going and look for deals and discounts and holiday hours.

Conservation Carrousel will also be lit up in holiday regale and the Treetop Toys Zoo Gift Shop will be filled with great stocking stuffers and gifts. Daily. Included with admission. 1801 Chestnut Ave., Santa Ana. www.santaanazoo.org Theme Parks Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure (714) 781-4565 During the Christmas holiday, enjoy Tim Burton’s “Nightmare Before Christmas” at the Haunted Mansion, Christmas Fantasy Parade, Disney ¡Viva Navidad!, It’s a Small World Holiday and Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle. 1313 Disneyland Drive, Anaheim. www.disneyland.com

Knott’s Berry Farm (714) 220-5200 For the holiday season, Knott’s Merry Farm brings Christmas entertainment including “A Christmas Story,” “The Story of the Magi” and “Krazy Kirk and the Hillbillies” at the historic Birdcage Theater, ice show spectacular with Snoopy, Snoopy’s merriest tree lightings and Santa. 8039 Beach Blvd., Buena Park. www.knotts.com

Legoland (760) 918-5346 Holiday Snow Days and Winter Nights at Legoland, through January 3, Legoland California Resort’s coolest holiday celebration is about to blow in. The park transforms into a winter wonderland featuring more real snow than ever before with a tubing area, lighting of the world’s largest Lego Christmas tree and concludes with the annual Kids’ New Year’s Eve Party. Guests enjoy festive entertainment plus nightly fireworks December 26-31. For information on extended hours beginning December 6,visit their website. Daily. All activities are included with regular park admission: adults, $83; kids (3-12), $73; parking, $15. One Legoland Drive, Carlsbad. www. california.legoland.com/holidaysnowdays

Six Flags Magic Mountain (661) 255-4111 During “Holidays in the Park,” November 27 - January 3, the park is transformed into a winter wonderland with lights, carolers and personalized meet-and-greets with Santa. 26101 Magic Mountain Pkwy., Valencia. www.sixflags.com SeaWorld (800) 257-4268 SeaWorld’s Holiday Celebration, November 21- January 3, includes Shamus Christmas killer whale show, Clyde and Seamore Save Christmas sea lion and otter show, SnowWorld, Santa’s Cottage and the

lighting of SeaWorld’s 320-foot Christmas Tree of Lights. Daily. Included with admission. 500 SeaWorld Drive, San Diego. www.seaworldsandiego.com

Universal Studios Hollywood (800) UNIVERSAL Grinchmas at Universal Studios, December 5 - January 5, is a holiday experience that’s fun for the whole family. Enjoy a helping of Wholiday cheer with photos with Grinch and his dog Max, join the Backlot Whobilation as the Whos sing and dance through Whoville, stand beneath the towering 60-foot Grinchmas tree and soak in the festive park decorations. Weekends through December 13; then daily, December 19 January 3. Included in the price of park admission.

100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City. (800) UNIVERSAL. www.universalstudioshollywood.com Family Fun Centers Most centers feature arcades. Some offer airsoft, gokarts, mechanical bull, laser tag, miniature golf, RC raceways, paintball and more. Most offer party and group packages. Coupons and discounts are often found on their website. Find a list of centers on Kidsguide’s website, www.tinyurl.com/familyfuncenters.

as they perform their “Sounds of the Season” concert featuring 80 choristers, handbells, soloists, and alumni and graduate choruses. Sunday, 4 p.m.

Check their website for ticket pricing. SOKA Performing Arts Center, 1 University Drive, Aliso Viejo. (714) 708-1670, Ext. 16. www.taabc.org Theatrical Variety Show in Hollywood December 13: Join a fun show for kids featuring professional comedians, magicians, puppeteers, musicians and more, plus games, prizes and plenty of interactive fun. Sunday, 11 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. $8.99 advance tickets; $10 at the door. Kids under 2 are free.

Metered street parking on Melrose with a two-hour limit, free two-hour street parking on Vista, Gardner and neighborhood streets, and valet available for $6 at Antonio’s Restaurant next door. Zephyr Theatre, 7456 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles. www.marzos.com Tuba Christmas in LA December 13: Hear traditional Christmas songs played by seasoned tuba players of all ages.

Sunday, 7 p.m. Free. Forest Lawn Hollywood Hills, 6300 Forest Lawn Drive, Hollywood Hills. www.tubachristmas.com Union Station Youth and Family Tours December 13: Families (5+) explore Union Station, its relationship with Los Angeles, and its train history. Please note: this tour does not include boarding a train. Sunday, 11 a.m. $5-10. Reservations required and are found on their website. Parking, $5-15. Tour meets in the Alameda Street entrance lobby, near the information counter. 800 N. Alameda St., Los Angeles. www.laconservancy.org Cocoa with Santa at Rancho Los Cerritos December 15 and 19: Kids enjoy delicious cocoa and marshmallows with Santa, make holiday crafts, enjoy stories, tour the beautifully decorated 171-year-old adobe house and learn how Victorian-era kids celebrated the holidays. Parents are welcome to take photos. Tuesday, 4-5:30 p.m. and Saturday, 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. $10 per person, includes a photo with Santa. Reservations required. 4600 Virginia Road, Long Beach. (562) 206-2040. www.rancholoscerritos.org Frosty the Snowman Workshop December 15: Kids (3-5) join in the fun and create gifts for the holidays, including puzzle wreaths, reindeer keepsakes, ornaments that sparkle, and a tasty graham cracker house. Tuesday, 3:30-5 p.m. $17; plus a $6 material fee. Pre-registration required through Cypress Recreation. Ehlers Community Center, 8150 Knott Ave., Buena Park.

(714) 229-6780. www.ci.cypress.ca.us Holiday Concert in Dana Point December 15-16: Join South Orange County School of the Arts for their student showcase, featuring dance, instrumental music, musical theatre and vocal performances. Tuesday - Wednesday, 7 p.m. $12-15. Dana Hills High School, 33333 Street of the Golden Lantern, Dana Point. (949) 240-1994. www.socsarts.org Holiday Family Bilingual Story Time December 16: Join a bilingual holiday story time for families, with stories in Spanish and English. Wednes36 kidsguide holiday guide 2015

day, 6-6:30 p.m. Orange Library, 407 E. Chapman Ave., Orange. (714) 288-2400. www.cityoforange.org • Holiday Toy Drive at The Rinks Anaheim ICE December 16: Donate new, unwrapped, toys, books, and games and skate for free and be entered to win Anaheim Ducks raffle items. Plus, enjoy holiday activities and crafts and meet Wild Wing, Power Players and Street Team. Wednesday, 7 p.m. - 9 p.m. The Rinks - Anaheim ICE, 300 W. Lincoln Ave., Anaheim.

(714) 535-RINK. www.the-rinks.com. See ad with coupon for free skate rental on page 15.

• Las Posadas Fiesta at Pretend City December 16: This day invites families to celebrate the first day of this nine-day Mexican Christmas celebration. Through special activities and events your children will have a better understanding of the history of this celebration in which so many partake. Kids make Posada piñata ornaments, Posada placemats, and luminaria path crafts in the art studio. This celebration takes place during the Christmas Countdown, so refer to the countdown’s daily activities found on their website.

Wednesday, all day. Included with admission. Pretend City Children’s Museum, 29 Hubble, Irvine. (949) 4283900. www.pretendcity.org. See ad on page 37.

Los Posadas on Olvera Street in Los Angeles December 16-24: This nine-night presentation of the journey of Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem is portrayed with singing, ballet folklorico entertainment, a candlelight procession on Olvera Street and a children’s piñata breaking each evening. Daily, 5:308:30 p.m. Free to attend. Olvera St., Los Angeles. www.olvera-street.com So You Think You Can Dance Tour at Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles December 16: Celebrating its 12th season and its new Stage v. Street format, the top 10 finalists will make their way across North America performing in 70 cities as part of the tour. The Season 12 tour lineup includes Team Stage’s Gaby Diaz, Edson Juarez, Jim Nowakowski, Hailee Payne and Derek Piquette; and Team Street’s Megan “Megz” Alfonso, Eddie “Neptune” Eskridge, Virgil Gadson, Jessica “JJ” Rabone and Jana “Jaja” Vankova. Wednesday, 8 p.m. $39.95-69.95. 777 Chick Hearn Court, Los Angeles. www.microsofttheater.com Story Time With Santa Claus at La Habra Library December 16: Free story time and photo opportunity with Santa for children. Bring your camera! Wednesday, 10:30 a.m. Free. 221 East La Habra Blvd., La Habra. (714) 526-7728. www.ocpl.org/libloc/habra Viewing of the Newport Beach Boat Parade at Newport Sea Base December 16-20: Join the Sea Base on their lawn for a view of the 107th annual Newport Beach Boat Parade.

Grandstand seating, chairs available on request, bring blankets. Wednesday - Sunday, opens at 6 p.m.; parade starts passing in front of the base around 8 p.m. $10 advance tickets; $20 night of event. Snacks and refreshments for purchase. Note: there is no parking at the base; passenger drop off only. 1931 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach. (949) 642-5031. www.newportseabase.org

All That Holiday Glitter Workshop December 17: Kids (6-12) create projects that sparkle, including homemade gifts to give for the holidays. Kids use their creativity to make evergreen wreaths, clay pot bells, ornaments that glitter, and a delicious treat too. Thursday, 4-6 p.m. $17, plus a $6 material fee. Pre-registration required through Cypress Recreation. Ehlers Community Center, 8150 Knott Ave., Buena Park. (714) 2296780. www.ci.cypress.ca.us Holiday Movie and Games at the Fullerton Library December 17: Bring your family for a fun-filled evening at the library, including age-appropriate movies for you to enjoy. Thursday, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Free. 353 W. Commonwealth Ave., Fullerton. (714) 738-6338. www.fullertonlibrary.org • Holiday Open House and Tour at Rancho Los Alamitos December 17-19: Enjoy the yuletide sparkle of the ranch house, the magnificently trimmed tree, mantles and hearths festooned with greens, holiday treats and strolling carolers. Thursday - Saturday, 4-8 p.m. Free; parking reservations are required.

The decorated ranch house will be open for regular tours through Sunday, December 20, 1-5 p.m.

6400 E. Bixby Hill Road, Long Beach. (562) 4313541. www.rancholosalamitos.com. See ad on page 20.

Huntington Harbor Cruise of Lights December 17-23: A narrated cruise through the waterways of Huntington Harbour to see the holiday lighted homes and decorations. Days and times vary.

Adults, $19; kids (2-12), $12. Huntington Beach.

(714) 840-7542. www.cruiseoflights.org • Sensory Sensitive Holidays at Pretend City December 17: Holidays often mean a change in schedules, a houseful of people, loud holiday songs, hustle and bustle, and sights and smells that can be overwhelming to some children. Take a break today as Pretend City creates a sensorysensitive environment in their city. You can expect: dimmed lights and minimal sounds, and a sensitive Santa photo opportunity (photos will end promptly at 5 p.m.). Don’t miss this autism-friendly museum environment designed for children who benefit from a less stimulating surroundings. Thursday, 1-5 p.m. Included with admission. Pretend City Children’s Museum, 29 Hubble, Irvine. (949) 4283900. www.pretendcity.org. See ad on page 37.

Star Wars Marathon Event at Regal Theaters December 17: All seven movies. One epic journey.

See each of the six previously released Star Wars episodes in digital 2D beginning with The Phantom Menace and concluding with the opening of Star Wars: The Force Awakens in 3D! Guests will also receive a lanyard featuring exclusive marathon art.

Thursday, find times and tickets on their website. www.regmovies.com Charles Dickens Carolers at Kaleidoscope Mission Viejo December 18: Join some holiday cheer with The Charles Dickens Carolers. Friday 6-8 p.m. Free to lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

attend. 27741 Crown Valley Pkwy., Mission Viejo. www.gokaleidoscope.com Free Holiday Movie Screening on the USS Iowa December 18: Bundle up and join a free evening of fun! Battleship Iowa and the LA Harbor International Film Festival present a screening of “Dr. Suess’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” Friday, 5 p.m. Admission: free; limited seating will be available on a first-come, first-seated basis. Guests may bring their own chairs and blankets. Cookies, coffee, and other beverages will be available for purchase. 250 S. Harbor Blvd., San Pedro. (877) 446-9261. www.pacificbattleship.com

Learn to Bake Pies for the Holidays at Lil’ Chefs School in Irvine December 18: At this holiday-inspired workshop, lil’ bakers learn how to make pie dough from scratch, including how to roll, shape and bind dough. They will make a Sweet Potato Pie and a Cranberry Cream Pie. Each child will make their own individual pie and hopefully save some to bring home and share. Recipes are included. Visit their website to register. Friday, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

15435 Jeffrey Road, #132, Irvine. (949) 6798390. www.lilchefschool.com Social Skills Playgroup at Mother’s Beach December 18: Meet at Mother’s Beach where your little ones will have the opportunity to build their social skills through songs, games and stories. During this holidaythemed playgroup, participants will explore different holidays celebrated all over the world. Friday, 4:30-

Unwrap the

Celebrate the magic of the holidays all month long Hooray for Chanukah Celebrations Christmas Countdown Festivities Las Posadas Celebrations Santa Claus Visits Pretend City Festival of Kwanzaa Snow-tastic Art Projects Don’t miss our Annual Noon Years Confetti Countdown Countdown celebrations at 10am, 12pm, 2pm, and 4pm!

www.pretendcity.org 29 Hubble | Irvine, CA 92618 | 949.428.3900

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Call Us Today to Schedule a Free Diagnostic Assessment. lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

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• Intensive Program in Reading, Math and Writing (including Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2 & Higher Math) • One-to-One Instruction • FREE DIAGNOSTIC ASSESSMENT • Great Family Discount Plans • All Credit Cards Accepted • Monthly Payment Plans

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$50 FREE TUITION with Ad Atlantic Ave

Homeschool Holiday at the Aquarium of the Pacific December 18: The aquarium is opening their doors to homeschool families, networks, students, parents and teachers. With winter-themed activities, kids learn about the amazing ocean and how animals cope with cold water. Enjoy special activities throughout the aquarium where students of all ages can investigate, experiment and discover.

Not able to attend Homeschool Holiday? Consider visiting on any other day and receive the same group rate. As a homeschool group, all you need is a minimum of 10 people for group admission, or 20 for a classroom or theater program. Friday, 9 a.m. - noon. $6 per participant. Aquarium of the Pacific, 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach. (562) 590-3100. www.aquariumofpacific.org

Carson St.

4215 Atlantic Avenue Long Beach, CA 90807 (Behind Trader Joe’s; NEXT to Domino’s Pizza)

562-653-4380

kidsguide holiday guide 2015 37

Buy Tickets Now! •Adventure The Wallisto Santa DreamPlace at Don’t miss Dan Zanes in March, The Girl Who Forgot to Sing Badly and The Lightning Thief in April and Seedfolks in June. 9390 N. Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills.

(310) 746-4000. www.thewallis.org. See ad on page 3.

Guys and Dolls: December 1-20: Guys and Dolls is a delightful musical based on Damon Runyon’s fond stories of gamblers and showgirls. The bad guys aren’t really dangerous, the dolls have superhuman patience, and what everybody wants deep down inside is to reform and lead respectable lives. Classic songs and great comedy make Guys and Dolls an odds-on favorite to please the entire family. Days and times vary (no performances on December 4, 7 or 14), visit their website for schedule and tickets, starting at $29.

A Christmas Carol in Costa Mesa November 27 - December 27: In the 36th production, recapture the spirit of an old-fashioned Christmas with this cherished Dickens classic and all your favorite characters: Tiny Tim and the Cratchit family, the Fezziwigs, the Ghosts of Christmas past, present and yet-to-come and, of course, Ebenezer Scrooge himself. Ages 6+.Check website for performance times and ticket prices. 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa. (714) 708-5555. www.scr.org Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical in Cerritos November 27-28: See all of your favorite characters as they come to life in Rudolph The RedNosed Reindeer: The Musical. It’s an adventure that teaches us that what makes you different can be what makes you special. Friday, 7 p.m. Saturday, noon and 4 p.m. $35-65. Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts, 12700 Center Court Drive, (562) 467-8819. www.cerritoscenter.com The Holiday Gem in Garden Grove November 27 - December 20: Be a part of a new tradition and ring in the holidays at The Gem Theatre with a fun for the whole family holiday review!

Backed by live musicians, stunning costumes and a whimsical set, Santa Claus, his tap dancing elves and a cast of talented performers close out the season in true holiday fashion! Days and times vary, visit their website for details. $10-25. 12852 Main St., Garden Grove. (714) 741-9550, Ext. 21. www.onemoreproductions.com A Child’s Christmas in Wales in Long Beach November 27 - December 13: Watch the anecdotal retelling of a Christmas from the point of view of a young child. The play is a romanticized version of Christmases past, portraying a nostalgic and simpler time. Originally prose by Dylan Thomas. Friday and Saturday, 8 p.m.; 38 kidsguide holiday guide 2015

and Sunday, 2 p.m. $10-20. 4250 Atlantic Ave., Long Beach. (562) 997-1494. www.lbshakespeare.org It’s a Wonderful Life Radio Show in Fullerton November 27 - December 27: The beloved American classic comes to captivating life as a live 1940’s radio broadcast. With the help of an ensemble that brings a few dozen characters to the stage, the story of idealistic George Bailey unfolds as he considers ending his life one fateful Christmas Eve. Friday and Saturday, 8 p.m.; and Sunday, 2 p.m. 400 E. Commonwealth Ave., Fullerton. (714) 525-4484. www.stagesoc.org A Very Electric Christmas at The Grove of Anaheim November 28: When a young bird gets separated from his parents, while flying south for the winter, his holiday adventure begins as he attempts to be reunited with his parents and make it home to celebrate Christmas. Saturday, 7 p.m. $29.50-39.50. 2200 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim. www.citynationalgroveofanaheim.com Gallery Family Christmas in Anaheim November 28 - December 20: Gather the family for an evening of storytelling and laughter. Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 7 p.m. $18-20. The Gallery Theater, 3152 E. La Palma Ave., Ste. G, Anaheim. (714) 6309870. www.thegallerytheatre.com Alvin and The Chipmunks Live on Stage in Anaheim December 1: The world’s most famous chipmunk trio accompanied by the Chipettes delights fans of all ages with performances that feature world-class production, music, special effects, and immersive interactivity to encourage audience participation.

Tuesday, 6 p.m. $25-45. 2200 E. Katella Ave. (714) 712-2700. www.citynationalgroveofanaheim.com A Snow White Christmas in Laguna Beach December 2-27: This British holiday tradition dating to the 1700s mixes classic fairy tales, familyfriendly magic and modern pop songs. Days and times vary, visit their website for details and ticket purchase. $20-80. Special savings with a Family 4-Pack offer for only $99 in the balcony. Golden Tickets are available as an add-on to any child’s ticket for an additional $50 each and are limited to ten per performance. A Golden Ticket allows the ticketholder (ages 4-14) a special on-stage singalong experience during the production. To purchase a Golden Ticket, please select the price, type “Child + Golden Ticket” when selecting your seats.

606 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach. (949) 497-2787. www.lagunaplayhouse.com A Christmas Carol in Westminster December 3-6 and 17-20: Based on the Charles Dickens classic, the musical tells the story of a bitter old miser named Ebenezer Scrooge. Thursday - Sunday.

Visit their website for show times and tickets. 14140 All American Way, Westminster. (714) 793-1150. www.rosecentertheater.com A Christmas Carol in San Marino December 4: Get into the spirit of the season with a lively, interactive performance of Charles Dickens’ holiday classic, A Christmas Carol, performed by Will and Company, The Music Center’s educational

touring ensemble. The program includes a pre-show sing-along of favorite holiday tunes. Friday, 7-8 p.m. $10-15 per person. Purchase tickets online. The cafe will be open until 7:15 p.m. before the start of this event. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino. (800) 838-3006. www.huntington.org Merry-Achi Christmas in Cerritos December 5: Merry-Achi Christmas returns with a colorful and traditional Mexican holiday celebration full of seasonal songs, dance and festive merriment.

Featuring Sol de Mexico de Jos Hernandez Mariachi, Reyna de Los Angeles, and Grandeza Mexicana Ballet Folklorico company. Saturday, 7 p.m. $35-86.

12700 Center Court Drive, Cerritos. (562) 4678819. www.cerritoscenter.com Festival of Carols at Walt Disney Concert Hall December 5 and 12: Ring in Christmas at Walt Disney Concert Hall with your favorite carols. Come early at 1 p.m. and hear the lobbies filled with the glorious sound of carols played by a professional brass quintet. Santa will be available to meet with kids after the performance. Saturday, 2 p.m. Visit the website for ticket prices. 111 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. (213) 972-7282. www.lamc.org Miracle on 34th St. in Rancho Cucamonga December 5-6 and 12-13: When Kris Kringle, a nice, old man from a retirement home gets a job working as a Christmas Santa at Macy’s, his honest and generous spirit winds up unleashing waves of good will throughout New York City, along with a hint of magic in the heart of a very practical little girl. Recommended for ages 8+. Saturday, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; and Sunday, 2 p.m. $16-22.50. Lewis Family Playhouse, 12505 Cultural Center Drive, Rancho Cucamonga. www.lewisfamilyplayhouse.com Waters of the Earth in La Mirada December 6: Waters of the Earth explores the rich folklore and mythology of seafaring peoples from all over the globe. This exciting performance also includes an introduction to the tradition of sea chanteys, songs sung by working sailors on all kinds of ships. Songs from Irish, New England, and African American/Afro Caribbean traditions will be taught and sung during the performance. With their delightful blend of storytelling, movement, masks, and live music, Boxtales Theatre Company has been creating unique theater experiences for young audiences for more than 20 years. Sunday, 1 and 3:30 p.m. $10-15. La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts, 14900 La Mirada Blvd., La Mirada. (714) 994-6310. www.lamiradatheatre.com Peter Pan and Tinkerbell A Pirate Christmas December 9 - January 3: Tinkerbell, Wendy and Peter Pan embark on a wild quest to foil the pirates’ plot to kidnap Peter for Captain Hook’s Christmas present in this flying, singing, swashbuckling adventure. Featuring comedy, magic, dancers from “So You Think You Can Dance,” and contemporary music from Taylor Swift to the Bee Gees. Show days and time vary. $25-125; Golden Tickets are available as an add-on to any child’s ticket for an additional $65 each and are limited to 10 per performance. One must buy a regular ticket for a seat

lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

in the theater before one buys a Golden Ticket. A Golden Ticket allows the ticketholder (children only) a special on-stage sing-along experience during the production. 39 S. El Molino Ave., Pasadena.

(626) 356-7529. www.pasadenaplayhouse.org Disney On Ice presents Frozen December 9 - January 4: Enter a fantastical winter wonderland beyond imagination as Disney On Ice presents “Frozen.” Audiences will be magically whisked away into the wintery world of Arendelle by dazzling special effects and astonishing skating as you sing and dance along to Disney classics. Hosted

by Mickey and Minnie, with special guest appearances by beloved Disney characters. As an added bonus, arrive early and learn the snowman dance at the Stonyfield YoKids and Disney Magic of Healthy Living Dance-Along Pre-Show. Performances in Los Angeles, Anaheim and Long Beach. For tickets and information, visit www.disneyonice.com/frozen.

• A Christmas Carol in Long Beach December 11-20: For nearly 170 years, Bob Cratchit, Tiny Tim, Ebenezer Scrooge and the ghosts of Christmas past, present and future have reminded us that even the most miserly can find redemption in kindness and generosity toward others. This year the Long Beach Playhouse brings Dickens’ story to life in its Mainstage Theater from December 11-20. Fridays and Saturdays, 8 p.m.; and Sundays, 2 p.m. Tickets, $14-24. Long Beach Playhouse, 5021 E. Anaheim St., Long Beach. (562) 494-1014. www.lbplayhouse.org. See ad on page 8.

It’s Magic! Holiday Edition at Norris Center for the Performing Arts December 12: Magicians and masters of illusion will conjure up an evening of spellbinding holiday fun that is perfect for the entire family. Saturday, 7:20 p.m. $48-58. 27570 Crossfield Drive, Rolling Hills. (310) 544-0403, Ext. 221. www.norristheatre.org Peter and the Wolf in Costa Mesa December 12: Celebrate the holidays as a family at the Philharmonic Society with some of music’s most beloved classics. Saturday, 3 p.m. $15-75.

Segerstrom Center for the Arts. (714) 556-2787. www.scfta.org Christmas Fantasia at Segerstrom Center for the Arts December 8: Enjoy favorite carols and breathtaking masterpieces performed by Vanguard University’s 200-member choir and orchestra. Carols and holiday favorites make this a family-friendly night. Tuesday, 8 p.m. $25-55. (714) 556-2787. www.scfta.org The Young Americans Present The Magic of Christmas December 11-13 and 16-20: In this special holiday production, The Young Americans will take you on a ride to a magical place. Show days and times vary, visit their website for schedule. $13-50. 14900 La Mirada Blvd., La Mirada. (714) 994-9801. www.lamiradatheatre.com Winter Fantasy in Long Beach December 12-13: Features beginning level dancers and special guests in a festive and casual atmosphere, lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

Holiday Performances plus their annual Nutcracker production, “Kingdom of the Sweets.” Saturday, noon, 3 p.m. and 6 p.m.; and Sunday, noon and 3 p.m. $12-18. Millikan High School.

(562) 594-5818. www.impactdancecenter.com A Sleeping Beauty Christmas in Neverland December 12-13 and 19-20: Join Sleeping Beauty’s first Christmas since she was saved by the prince.

Saturdays and Sundays, 2 p.m. (Sunday, December 21 at 4:30 p.m., no cocoa party). One Hour Musical with optional Cocoa Party at 1 p.m. $10 pre-pay, show only; $15 Cocoa Party and show. Ticket prices are an additional $2 at the door. Ebell Theater, 626 French St., Santa Ana. (714) 542-6939. www.broadwayontour.org Colors of Christmas in Cerritos December 12: The popular annual tradition returns with Grammy winner Peabo Bryson with Taylor Dane, Jennifer Holliday, and Ruben Studdard in a program full of holiday cheer and seasonal favorites. Saturday, 8 p.m. $55-100. Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts, 12700 Center Court Drive. (562) 467-8819. www.cerritoscenter.com Messiah Sing-Along at the Walt Disney Concert Hall December 16: With orchestra on stage, artistic director Grant Gershon will conduct you and 2,199 other singers in this joyful performance. Bring your own score or buy one in the lobby and join the chorus.

Hallelujah! Wednesday, 8 p.m. Visit their website for ticket prices. 111 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. (213) 972-7282. www.lamc.org

Holiday Sing-along with the LA Phil December 19: It’s the jolliest holiday sing-along in town! Accompanied by the hall’s huge organ, a choir and a jazz combo, you’ll sing songs of the season like The 12 Days of Christmas, Jingle Bells, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, and many others. Great for children of all ages! Saturday, 11:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. $38-92.50. Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. (323) 850-2000. www.laphil.com Soon it will be Christmas Aloha Kalikimaka December 20: Let your spirits soar! Join five beloved Southern California Kumu Hula and their award-winning halau as they share this aloha and holiday-infused dance and music performance. Discover and experience the unique spiritual connections of Hawai’i. Sunday, 3 p.m. $22-28. Artani Theatre, 244 S. San Pedro St. Los Angeles. (213) 628-2725. www.jaccc.org Tis the Season in Costa Mesa December 20-21: Resounding brass and organ, angelic children’s voices, and the splendid singers of the Pacific Chorale bring seasonal classics and popular favorites to life in one of Orange County’s best-loved holiday traditions. Sunday, 5:30 p.m. and Monday, 8 p.m. $29-139. Segerstrom Center for the Arts. (714) 556-2787. www.scfta.org Holiday Organ Spectacular in Costa Mesa December 22: Fast becoming an Orange County tradition, this holiday spectacular captures the spirit of the season with classical and holiday favorites. Tuesday, 7:30 p.m. $15-75. Segerstrom Center for the Arts. (714) 556-2787. www.scfta.org

A Cirque Christmas in Costa Mesa December 18-19: Holiday tunes add a special sparkle to this jaw-dropping fusion of fliers, acrobats, contortionists, dancers, jugglers and strongmen who perform their cirque acts while Pacific Symphony provides a joyous soundtrack perfect for the most wonderful time of the year.

Friday - Saturday, 8 p.m. $78200. Segerstrom Center for the Arts. (714) 556-2787. www.scfta.org Charlie Brown Christmas at CSULB December 19: Get the entire family into the holiday spirit by enjoying classic Vince Guaraldi Christmas tunes performed by contemporary jazz pianist David Benoit. Saturday, 8 p.m.

Ticket prices vary. CSULB - Carpenter Performing Arts Center, 6200 Atherton St. (562) 985-7000. www.carpenterarts.org

kidsguide holiday guide 2015 39

• All Ages Astronomy Club in Downey December 19: The Columbia Memorial Space Center welcomes aspiring astronomers of all ages to join the monthly Astronomy Club meetings. Meetings include a fascinating program about the night sky and a chance for members and guests to get together and talk about all things astronomy, plus information on how to pick the proper telescope, how to use a telescope, how to build a telescope, and how to identify different celestial objects. 7-9 p.m. $2 fee required for all non-members. 12400 Columbia Way, Downey.

(562) 231-1200. www.columbiaspacescience.org.

See ad on page 29.

5:30 p.m. American Health and Wellness Institute, Long Beach. (562) 439-3425. www.ahwinstitute.com • 1995 and Beyond - A Holiday Celebration at The Rinks - Anaheim ICE December 19: The Rinks - Anaheim ICE proudly presents their annual holiday show, “1995 and Beyond - A Holiday Celebration,” reflecting back on their last 20 years of holiday shows. Saturday, 2:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at the door or in advance at the program office. The Rinks - Anaheim ICE, 300 W. Lincoln Ave., Anaheim. (714) 5357465. www.The-Rinks.com. See ad on page 15.

• Alice in Wonderland Tea Party in Long Beach December 19: Join a proper sit down evening tea service with characters from Alice in Wonderland.

Features tea sandwiches, scones, desserts and looseleaf tea. Plus, crafts, games, face painting and more!

Saturday, 6-8 p.m. $35 per person (adults and kids).

RSVP, space is limited. Dream Come True Party Room, 3962 Studebaker Road, Ste. 204, Long Beach. (562) 270-1400. www.dreamcometruepartyroom.com. See ad on page 33.

All About Kids Family Hike in Bommer Canyon December 19: Hey kids, bring your parents out to this fun, guided hike in the wilderness south of Irvine. Search for animal clues left along the trail and discover what it’s like to be a wild animal kid. A short, easy hike suitable for the younger members of the family. Great for ages 4 and up. Parent(s) or guardian must be in attendance.

Saturday, 9-11 a.m. Visit the website to register. 28373 Alicia Pkwy., Laguna Niguel. www.letsgooutside.org 40 kidsguide holiday guide 2015

modated. 3720 Stephen M. White Drive, San Pedro.

(310) 548-7562. www.cabrillomarineaquarium.org Parade of 1,000 Lights in Long Beach December 19: Watch dozens of yachts decked out with holiday lights cruise along the coast. With the best viewing points at Shoreline Village, the parade will wind from Shoreline Marina to Rainbow Harbor, past Pine Avenue Pier and alongside the Queen Mary. Saturday, 5 p.m. Free. Long Beach. www.shorelineyachtclub.com

Artic Lights at the Moorpark College Teaching Zoo December 19-20: The Exotic Animal Training and Management Program at Moorpark College presents Arctic Lights. Join holiday-themed animal performances, children’s activities and enjoy baked goods.

Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Adults, $8; kids (3-12), $6. 7075 Campus Road, Moorpark.

(805) 378-1441. www.zoo.moorparkcollege.edu

Parents’ Night Out in Newport Beach December 19: Kids gather around the campfire for games in the nature center while parents hit the town! Kids (5+) eat dinner, learn about campfire safety and build a campfire to roast s’mores, play games and end the night in the museum watching a movie on the big screen. Saturday, 5:30-11 p.m. $35 per child, $30 for siblings. Environmental Nature Center, 1601 E. 16th St., Newport Beach. (949) 6458489. www.encenter.org

Christmas Festivities at Farmers Market LA December 19-24: The Original Farmers Market is decked out in yuletide finery to welcome the season.

Celebrate the holidays with music, arts and crafts, variety shows, Dickensian carolers and more. Daily.

Free. 3rd and Fairfax, Los Angeles. (323) 933-9211. www.farmersmarketla.com

Shop ‘N’ Drop Mad Science Saturdays In Huntington Beach December 19: Parents enjoy holiday shopping, while kids (5-12) have fun with hands-on experiments. All kids must be potty trained. Saturday, 9 a.m. - noon. $34-35, plus $5 material fee. City Gym and Pool.

(714) 960-8884. www.huntingtonbeachca.gov

Family Day at the Norton Simon Museum December 19: Family Day presents “What’s Your Story?” Explore how gestures and expressions in scenes of Renaissance paintings tell a story. Using a Renaissance-inspired storyboard, draw scenes from moments in your own life when you might have felt a certain way, like cheerful, proud, silly or sad. Saturday, 1-3 p.m. Free with admission. 411 Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. (626) 449-6840. www.nortonsimon.org

Star Party at Griffith Observatory December 19: Look through a large variety of professional and home-built telescopes to view the sun, planets, the moon and deep sky objects, like double-stars, star clusters and nebulae. The observatory’s Zeiss 12inch refractor and computer controlled 11-inch lawn telescopes are set up throughout the event. Saturday, 2-9:45 p.m. Free. 2800 E. Observatory Road, Los Angeles. (213) 473-0800. www.griffithobservatory.org

Lakeshore Learning’s Free Saturday Workshops December 19: Kids (3+) can make a festive card holder. Saturday, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. No reservations necessary. Carson, (310) 537-4778; Fountain Valley, (714) 963-8255; and Laguna Hills, (949) 462-9353. www.lakeshorelearning.com/freecrafts4kids

Tuba Christmas in Anaheim December 19: Hear traditional Christmas songs played by seasoned tuba players of all ages at this annual event. Saturday, noon. Free. Downtown Disney. Anaheim. www.tubachristmas.com

Mini Holiday Trees Workshop in San Marino December 19: Kids (7-12) put a new spin on tradition by creating mini holiday trees made from fresh greenery and cut flowers in this workshop led by the floral design team from Flower Duet. Since ancient times, evergreen trees have been a central part of winter solstice celebrations. Saturday, 1-2:30 p.m. $25-35.

Preregistration required. Huntington Library, Art Collections and Botanical Gardens, 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino. (800) 838-3006. www.huntington.org Ocean in Art Gyotaku at Cabrillo Marine Aquarium December 19: Create one-of-a-kind gifts as you practice the art of Gyotaku fish printing. Fee includes paint and paper. Please bring fabric or clothes to print on during this studio workshop.

Saturday, 9:30 a.m. - noon. $18; preregistration required by December 11. Walk-ins cannot be accom-

• Vans Skatepark Holiday Skate Clinics December 19: Vans Skatepark in Orange, a 40,000-square-foot facility, offers a Holiday Clinic on Saturday, December 19. Instruction is offered for beginner to advanced street skateboarders, ages 6-16.

Pizza lunch is included. Clinic hours: 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. $40 for members; $50 for non-members. Space is limited, so sign up today. 20 City Blvd., West, Orange.

(714) 769-3800. www.vans.com. See ad on page 13.

Breakfast with Santa at Descanso Gardens December 20: Share a jolly morning with the Man in Red! The event includes a sumptuous breakfast buffet catered by The Patina Group, with choices sure to appeal to all ages, plus a Gingerbread S’mores workshop. Reservations required by December 13.

Sunday, 9:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. Adults, $66; kids, $28. (818) 949-4200. 1418 Descanso Drive, La Canada Flintridge. www.descansogardens.org Family Christmas Concert at Nixon Library December 20: Bring the whole clan and enjoy holiday favorites with the Green-Orozco families. Sunlots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

day, doors open at 1:30 p.m.; music at 2 p.m. Free.

18001 Yorba Linda Blvd., Yorba Linda. (714) 9935075. www.nixonfoundation.org

includes all supplies. 5875 E. Appian Way, Long Beach. www.tinyurl.com/makersville Holiday Festival at the Muckenthaler December 20: The festival features home and gallery tours, performances, food and an arts and crafts fair.

Plus, free art workshops for kids, a children’s play

Family Drumming Circle at Kidseum December 20: Join in the fun with professional Mexican drummer, Martin Espino and participate in a family drumming circle. Make your own instrument to take home! Recommended for ages 2-8. Grandparents and parents welcome. Sunday, 1:30-3:30 p.m. 1802 N. Main St., Santa Ana. (714) 567-3694. www.bowers.org

area, and a special appearance by Santa Claus. Sunday, noon - 4 p.m. Free. 1201 W. Malvern Ave., Fullerton. (714) 738-6595. www.themuck.org Desserts with Santa at the Aquarium of the Pacific December 21: Celebrate the holidays at the Aquari-

Now Enrolling for Summer & Fall 2016

• Figure Skating Show at East West Ice Palace December 20: The show will feature skaters from their Basic Skills Learn-to-Skate program in choreographed group numbers, as well as solo performances by EWIP singles and pair skaters who are regional, sectional, and national-level competitors. Sunday, 6:15 p.m.

Contact for adult admission price; kids 5 and under, free. 11446 Artesia Blvd., Artesia. (562) 809-6200. www.eastwesticepalace.com. See ad on page 17.

Spaces are limited 3621 E. Broadway, Long Beach • 562.438.4904 • www.kidworkscc.com

Family Days at Makersville in Long Beach December 20-22: Join the Makersville community as they make gifts for fellow family members. The sewing room is filled with fabric, patterns and ideas from makers who will assist in creating that perfect stocking stuffer.

The computer room is open and makers will assist in creating an animated digital holiday card that can be sent to friends and family throughout the world. The craft room will be filled with paper and supplies for making cards, books, portraits, signs and jewelry. Sunday, 1-4 p.m. (half day only); Monday and Tuesday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. $25 for a half day and $40 for a full day of making;

CHILDREN’S CENTER Pre-K Programs 7 am-5:55 pm or 8 am-Noon After School Kindergarten Program: 11:30 am-5:30 pm

Book Your Tour Today

Welcome!

If you’re looking for uncompromising excellence in education and a Biblical Worldview, Valley Christian Schools welcomes you to visit. We’re happy to share about our outstanding outcomes!

Admissions Open House Days Saturday, January 23, 2016

VC Middle School - 12:00pm VC High School - 2:00pm

Saturday, February 6, 2016

VC Elementary School - 10:00 am

Learn more at vcschools.org or for a personal tour, call 562.860.0557 lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

kidsguide holiday guide 2015 41

• Acting Out Theater Camp’s Winter Workshops (562) 901-0111 www.actingoutcamp.com Make new friends at Acting Out Theater’s winter camp. Each day offers a different workshop for kids (ages 7-13) including scene study, improvisational games and activities, musical theater, character study, audition techniques and so much more. December 21-23 and 28-30, Mondays - Wednesdays, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. After camp may be offered, 1-4 p.m., depending on interest and availability. Email: actingoutcamp@yahoo.com. Call to reserve your child’s spot. See ad on page 23.

Alpert JCC Camp Komaroff School-Break Camps (562) 426-7601 3801 E. Willow St., Long Beach www.alpertjcc.org Kindergarten - 8th graders can spend winter-break days at camp! Program includes exciting daily themes, swimming, sports, arts and crafts, and more. Covers LBUSD school vacation days, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. each day; extended hours available. Visit website for more information and pricing.

Anaheim Community Services (714) 765-5219 www.anaheim.net/ezrecconnect CampVenture Winter Day Camp (6-13) is a week-long camp filled with special activities, including crafts, games, movies, nature, science, cooking, sports and an excursion. December 21-23, Extreme Recess; December 28-30, Rockin’ New Year’s Eve; and January 4-8, Gameshow Mania.

Aquarium of the Pacific Winter Camp Adventures (562) 590-1630 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach www.aquariumofthepacific.org Aquarium of the Pacific offers two winter camps: Sea Squirt Camp, where kids (ages 5-6) discover the underwater world of sea creatures, December 22-24; and Winter Day Camp (ages 7-9), a marine life exploration through behind-the-scenes tours, interaction with Aquarium husbandry staff members, games, crafts and hands-on time with various sea animals—all documented in a keepsake camp journal, December 29-31.

Art Steps Yorba Linda (714) 524-2248 Mission Viejo (949) 454-9555 www.artstepsclasses.com Kids (7+) create festive winter sculptures of Snoopy’s gang for Christmas or Hanukkah. All classes introduce and reinforce fundamental classic, realistic drawing and painting skills.

December 28-31, Monday - Thursday. $215, plus $10 for materials; sibling discount, $18 off.

• Big Air Trampoline Park Winter Adventure Camp 1101 California St., Redlands (909) 335-7275 www.splashkingdom.net Spend your winter break jump-

42 kidsguide holiday guide 2015

ing, making friends, having fun and much more! Big Air Trampoline Park, located at Splash Kingdom, offers three sessions of Winter Adventure Camp: December 21-23 (closed December 24 and 25), $85; December 28-31 (closed January 1), $112; and January 4-8, 2016, $140. Plus, $5 per day for lunch.

Pre-register for two or more campers and save $40.

See ad on page 2.

Boys and Girls Club Day camps (5-18) are offered at most branches during vacation breaks and school holidays, usually Monday Friday, 6:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. (hours vary). Most clubs also offer overnight and leadership camps (13-18). See www.tinyurl.com/KGboysandgirlsclubs for information on vacation drop-in programs and club locations.

Brainstorm STEM Winter Camps 5430 Trabuco Road, Ste. 150, Irvine (949) 607-8676 www.brainstormedu.com Three-day winter camps: Minecraft University: Robotics (9 a.m.) or Dinocraft (1 p.m.); or Lego Engineering: Jedi Academy (9 a.m.) or BatttleBots (1 p.m.). December 21-23. $169. Call for age ranges and details.

Build It Workspace (714) 947-0800 4478 Cerritos Ave., Los Alamitos www.buildit.ws Children (8+) gain the confidence to design and build their ideas through hands-on learning with traditional and advanced tools at Build It Workspace’s Winter Camps. Participants create their designs using 3D printers, 3D design software, laser cutters, and vacuum-molding techniques.

Traditional tools such as saws, drills and sanders are also incorporated to finish their project. Morning and afternoon sessions are available, December 7-11 and 14-18. Full day sessions, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., are offered December 21-23 (Build Your Own 3D Printer Camp) and 28-30 (Build Your Own Rocket Camp). Visit the website for more information or call for details.

• Columbia Memorial Space Center Winter Camps 12400 Columbia Way, Downey (562) 231-1200 www.columbiaspacescience.org Kids (grades 3-8) join the center for winter workshops that are out of this world! December 2123: Robotics; December 28-30: Aerospace.

Monday - Wednesday, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. See ad on page 29.

Costa Mesa Community Services (714) 754-5161 www.ci.costa-mesa.ca.us Winter Camp Costa Mesa (grades K-6) - Sports, games, skits, arts and crafts, and excursions. December 21-24 and 28-31, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., extended hours, 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. $136-170 per week.

Limited spots fill up quickly.

Cypress Recreation and Parks (714) 229-6780 www.cypressrec.com Camp Cypress Spring Camp (5-12): March 14-18, 7:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. $21 per day with additional fees for excursions each day.

Elevation Studios Winter-Break Intensive 1900 E. 27th St., #101, Signal Hill (562) 424-2711 www.elevationstudios.com Two-day Intensive dance program during winter break. Intermediate to advance levels for ages 9 to adult. December 28-29, 6-9 p.m.

Fullerton Parks and Recreation 303 W. Commonwealth Ave., Fullerton (714) 738-6575 www.ci.fullerton.ca.us Hillcrest Winter Day Camps: Kids (5-12) get active outdoors and explore, create and learn through various arts, crafts and enrichment projects. December 21-23 and 28-30, $125-185. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., with extended hours, 7 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Gryphon Fencing & Fitness Studio 971 Via Rodeo, Placentia (714) 519-1343 www.GryphonFencing.com Go from Zero to Zorro! Vacation-break camps will teach your child the sport of fencing. In the popular Go Medieval Camp, kids learn archery, fencing and build a working catapult. Camps offer the chance to have fun, meet new friends, learn new skills and build confidence. Email: info@gryphonfencing.com.

Irvine Recreation 1 Civic Center Plaza, Irvine (949) 724-6610 www.Irvinequickreg.org Winter camps, December 21 - January 1, arts (612), ICamp (5-12), soccer (5-12), Winter X-Cursion (10-12) and Winter Teen Camp (11-15), $21-135.

Lake Forest Community Services 25550 Commercentre Drive, Lake Forest (949) 273-6960 www.lakeforestca.gov Holiday Hoopla Rockin’ Winter Camp and Winter Adventure Camp, December 21-24 and 28-31.

LangoKids Irvine 9070 Irvine Center Drive, Ste. 135, Irvine (714) 864-4680 www.langokidsirvine.com Camp Lango is a Spanish immersion camp offered during school breaks designed to give children (5-10) a unique experience. Kids get to spend time having fun, acquiring a second or third language, and taking pretend trips along with a passport to different destinations in Latin America or Europe. Extended care in the morning and afternoon is available for free.

Lil’ Chef School 15435 Jeffrey Road, #132, Irvine (949) 679-8390 www.lilchefschool.com Two three-day Christmas camps, December 21-24

lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

and 28-31, 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Kids make winter desserts to traditional holiday dishes.

Mad Science (562) 916-8500 www.westorangecounty.madscience.org From building bridges and digging dinosaurs to readying rockets and cracking codes, children in Mad Science camp participate in scientific explorations that are so much fun, they forget they’re learning! Winter camp, December 28-31, 9 a.m. - noon.

My Gym Children’s Fitness Center Long Beach 3287 Industry Drive, Signal Hill (562) 986-0066 www.mygym.com/longbeach My Gym Children’s Fitness Center offers one of the best camp programs in town. Children of all ages can enjoy a day of camp with hands-on arts and crafts, music, dance, games, and overall emphasis on learning solid skills and fundamentals in sports and gymnastics. Themed days and activities add to the fun and atmosphere of the program. Winter camp (3+, must be potty trained), December 22, 12:30-4:30 p.m.; December 23. 1:45-4:45 p.m.; December 28-29, 12:30-4:30 p.m.; December 30, 1:45-4:45 p.m.; December 31, 11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.; and January 1, 11:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. Choose one day or all seven days.

Newport Beach Recreation and Senior Services (949) 644-3151 www.newportbeachca.gov/recreation Winter camps (December 21-23) include Lego Robotics (5-12), Academic Chess (5-12), Holiday Art (5-14), Camp Broadway Star (7-12) and Stage Play (4-6). $90-165.

Pacific Conservatory, Music & Arts Education (714) 545-1217 www.pacificconservatory.com Your child (ages 3-12) will experience music, art and theater each fun-filled day at DiscoveryARTS Camps.

These popular camps introduce the joys of artistic expression through singing, dancing and related art projects. Camps include: Beauty and the Beast Enchanted Christmas, Descendants, The Nutcracker and Frozen Fever. December 21-24 and 28-31. A Musical Madness extension program will also be available, 2-4:15 p.m.

• Rainbow Chefs (855) 485-2433 www.rainbowchefs.com From Food Science to Restaurant Challenge, aspiring young chefs (ages 5+) will enjoy these extraordinary culinary arts camps that combine fun, kid-friendly recipes with health education to inspire a love for cooking and healthy eating. All food and cooking utensils are provided. See ad on page 40.

Signal Hill Community Services (562) 989-7330 www.cityofsignalhill.org Winter camps (grades K-5) - Games, and arts and crafts, December 14-18 and 28-31, $32-40.

lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

Winter Camps • Skatedogs (714) 313-8787 www.skatedogs.com Kids will make new friends, advance their skateboarding skills, and most importantly, have fun at Skatedogs’ winter-break skateboarding camps offered through city parks and recreation departments. Contact for details.

They also offer after-school and weekend classes, private lessons and birthday parties. See ad on page 29.

• Southern California Tennis Academy Holiday Camps 2800 Studebaker Road, Long Beach (562) 425-0553 www.sctennisacademy.com The SC Tennis Academy is hosting two weeks of Developmental Holiday Camps. The camps will run December 21-23 and December 28-31, 9 a.m. noon. The Developmental Camp is for beginning to intermediate players, ages 5-16. They will learn proper stroke fundamentals and footwork patterns with the highest quality of instructors. This program prepares each player for eventual tournament and competitive play. Each day consists of a 15 minute warm-up, drop-feeds, games, service drills and music games to finish the day. There is a snack break also provided in the middle of the day. Snacks, water and Gatorade provided for all participants. For more information, visit their website at www.sctennisacademy.com or email Brittnie Furuvald atbrittnie@sctennisacademy.com. See ad on page 11.

Sylvan Learning Centers Downey (562) 622-9210 Huntington Beach (714) 848-6072 Long Beach (562) 429-8320 www.sylvanlearning.com At Sylvan Camps kids have fun! Campers learn robotics and game design while strengthening their math, reading and writing skills. Call today for details.

ange, a 40,000-square-foot facility, offers two different Holiday Clinics on Saturday, December 12 and 19. Instruction is offered for beginner to advanced street skateboarders, ages 6-16. Pizza lunch is included. Clinic hours: 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. $40 for members; $50 for non-members. Space is limited so sign up today. See ad on page 13.

• Winter Hockey at The Rinks - Irvine Inline 3150 Barranca Pkwy., Irvine (949) 559-9949 www.irvineinline.com Kids join The Rinks - Irvine Inline on December 2123 and December 28-30 to improve their hockey skills at Winter Hockey Camps. The two-day camps are only $149 and include a lunch, and dry-land and on-rink training from The Rinks coaching staff. See ad on page 15.

• YMCA of Orange County - Winter Camp Too Cool for School www.ymcaoc.org/wdc YMCA Winter Day Camp is a great way for children to have fun in a safe and supportive environment during the holiday break. Camps are located right on campus at local Orange County schools and kids will enjoy daily activities, including: cooking, arts and crafts, team-building, science, special events, field trips, service learning and more! Camp starts December 21 and space is limited. Enroll your kids today! See ad on page 9.

YMCA www.ymcaoc.org,www.lbymca.org www.campoakes.org, www.camp.ymca.org Individual branches offer day camp (5-15) during traditional and year-round school vacations. Financial assistance is available. See www.tinyurl.com/KGYMCA for contact information.

Tom Hicks 2015 Christmas Baseball Camp (562) 425-2446 www.tomhicksbaseballcamps.com Camp, for ages 5-14, is offered at Heartwell Park in Long Beach, December 28 - January 2 (no camp on Friday, January 1). Hours: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., with extended hours offering in-depth hitting instruction, 8-9 a.m. and 3-4 p.m. For more information, visit their website.

• Vans Skatepark Holiday Skate Clinics 20 City Blvd., West, Orange (714) 769-3800 www.vans.com December 12 and 19: Vans Skatepark in Or-

kidsguide holiday guide 2015 43

um. Explore the exhibits during special evening hours and enjoy cookies and desserts with Santa. Monday, 6:30-9:30 p.m. Adults (12+), $28.95; kids (3-11), $18.95; member adults, $18.95; member kids, $8.95. 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach. (562) 5903100. www.aquariumofpacific.org • Extended Skate Session at East West Ice Palace December 21 - January 1: For winter break, East West Ice Palace will be extending their public session hours and celebrating the holidays with festive decorations and music. Come and join in on the fun! Public session times vary by day, call or visit their website for details and schedules.

11446 Artesia Blvd., Artesia. (562) 809-6200. www.eastwesticepalace.com. See ad on page 17.

“How the Grinch Stole Christmas” Screening in Costa Mesa December 21: Bring family and friends to watch a free screening of “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” on the big screen! Pajamas welcome. Plus, hot cocoa, coffee and cookies. Monday, doors open at 5:45 p.m.; movie at 6:30 p.m. Free. Neighborhood Community Center, 1845 Park Ave., Costa Mesa. www.costamesaca.gov Winter Break Crafts at the Mission San Juan Capistrano December 21 - January 1: Kids (6-12) enjoy special winter-break activities at the Mission, including lasso/jump ropes (Monday), miniature adobe brick houses (Tuesday), cornhusk dolls/action figures (Wednesday), mini coiled clay pots (Thursday) and arrowhead necklaces (Friday). Monday Friday, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. $5 per child in addition to admission. No crafts December 24 or 25. 26801 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano. (949) 2341315. www.missionsjc.com • Winter Solstice Celebration at Pretend City Children’s Museum December 21: The beginning of winter is marked by the solstice, the shortest day of the year. The day’s activities will explain what the winter solstice is and how it has been observed by various cultures throughout history. This celebration takes place during their Christmas Countdown, so refer to the Christmas Countdown daily activities found on their website.

Monday, visit their website for daily schedule. Included with admission. 29 Hubble, Irvine. (949) 428-3900. www.pretendcity.org. See ad on page 37.

Christmas Party for Little Ones in Long Beach December 22: Let’s celebrate the holidays by having a Christmas party! Little ones can decorate sugar cookies, play holiday games, sing Christmas songs and listen to stories. Tuesday, 10:30 a.m. - noon. American Health and Wellness, 5580 E. 2nd St., Ste. 101, Long Beach.

(562) 439-3425. www.ahwinstitute.com 55th Annual Free LA County Holiday Celebration December 24: Join music ensembles, choirs and dance companies from the many neighborhoods and cultures of the region to celebrate the season during this free, three-hour holiday show that is perfect for the whole family. The program will be broadcast on PBS SoCaL, the PBS station for greater Los Angeles. Wednesday, 3-6 p.m. Doors open at 2:30 p.m. (lines form much earlier). Free; no reservations or tickets to the show; 44 kidsguide holiday guide 2015

first come, first seated. Dorothy Chandler Pavilion at The Music Center, 135 N. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. (213) 972-3099. www.lacountyarts.org/holiday.html

9:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. $15; kids 5 and under, free. Pasadena City College, 1570 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

(626) 795-4171. www.tournamentofroses.com

• Begin a Holiday Tradition with a Round of Golf at Golf N’ Stuff December 25: Bring family and friends for Christmas fun at Golf N’ Stuff. They offer challenging miniature golf, exciting rides including go-karts, bumper boats, bumper cars, Disk ‘O Thrill ride and kiddie train. Plus, be sure to utilize their “North Pole Fun Pack,” just $17, offered throughout December. Friday, opens at 2 p.m. 10555 E. Firestone Blvd., Norwalk. (562) 868-9956. www.golfnstuff.com. See ad on page 25.

New Year’s Celebration at Bowers Kidseum December 30: Celebrate the New Year with Kidseum! Craft the day away with fun New Year’s themed projects. Kids create hand-made reusable confetti poppers and colorful noisemakers that they can use at home during the real countdown. Every hour on the hour, beginning at noon, kids have the opportunity to practice their best New Year’s countdowns.

In the Glow Cave, kids make glowing wish wands.

Wednesday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. At 3 p.m., a balloon drop in the center of Kidseum. Included with admission. 2002 N. Main St., Santa Ana. (714) 5500906. www.bowers.org

• Festival of Kwanzaa at Pretend City December 26-30: Kwanzaa is here, and there are so many fun things to do! Each day children can light another candle on the Kinara and join in activities to celebrate the Kwanzaa principle of the day, including working at the family stand, making gifts for family and friends, playing African games, and even having a “feast!” Saturday - Monday, visit their website for daily schedule. Included with admission. Pretend City Children’s Museum, 29 Hubble, Irvine. (949) 4283900. www.pretendcity.org. See ad on page 37.

Lakeshore Learning’s Free Saturday Workshops December 26: Kids (3+) create Happy New Year glasses. Saturday, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. No reservations necessary. Carson, (310) 537-4778; Fountain Valley, (714) 963-8255; and Laguna Hills, (949) 462-9353. www.lakeshorelearning.com/freecrafts4kids • Saturday Science at Columbia Memorial Space Center December 26: Head to Columbia Memorial Space Center for presentations and discussions on the latest news in science. Saturday, noon - 4 p.m. Included with admission. 12400 Columbia Way, Downey.

(562) 231-1200. www.columbiaspacescience.org.

See ad on page 29.

Equestfest with the Tournament of Roses December 29: Watch beautiful horses and talented riders perform drills and dances and demonstrate trick riding and roping. Stroll through the stables, talk to riders and learn about the various tack and the many different breeds, while enjoying the vendor court, displays, great music, food and drinks. Tuesday, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., show begins at noon. $15-40; parking, $10. Los Angeles Equestrian Center, 480 Riverside Drive, Los Angeles.

(626) 795-4171. www.tournamentofroses.com Open House at Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary December 29-31: Join a day of fun, education and adventure, including guided nature walks, nature crafts, free hot apple cider and cookies. Tuesday - Thursday, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Free. 29322 Modjeska Canyon, Silverado. (714) 649-2760. www.tuckerwildlife.org Tournament of Roses Bandfest in Pasadena December 29-30: Bandfest features the prize-winning bands of the 2016 Rose Parade performing their field shows. Three shows over two days give everyone a chance to see these talented musicians, dancers and auxiliary performers. Tuesday, 1:30 p.m.; Wednesday,

• Noon Year’s Eve at Discovery Cube Orange County December 30-31: Ring in 2016 with a special family-friendly New Year celebration, with a ginger ale toast, dance party, confetti blast countdown celebration and more. Included with general admission.

Wednesday and Thursday. 2500 N. Main St., Santa Ana. (714) 542-2823. www.discoverycube.org. See ad on page 5.

• Annual Noon-Year’s Confetti Countdown at Pretend City December 31: Twas’ the day before New Year’s and all through the city, the citizens are stirring and buzzing about! With sparkling streamers and festive party hats, this is one celebration you won’t want to miss. Enjoy stories, family New Year’s resolution art project, rock ‘n’ roll dance party and a New Year’s Eve countdown at noon, 2 and 4 p.m. Thursday, included with admission. Pretend City Children’s Museum, 29 Hubble, Irvine. (949) 4283900. www.pretendcity.org. See ad on page 37.

Family New Year’s Eve at Los Angeles Zoo December 31: Celebrate 2016 in style with “skip-theline” express entry to L.A. Zoo Lights, a dinner buffet, sparkling apple cider for kids, dessert, a ride on the zoo’s special conservation carousel, kids’ crafts, a DJ dance party and live broadcast of New York’s Times Square ball drop at 9 p.m., after which you’re welcome to experience L.A. Zoo Lights until closing. Thursday, 6 p.m. Adults, $65; kids (2-12), $40. 5333 Zoo Drive, Los Angeles. (323) 644-4200. www.lazoolights.org Family New Year’s Eve Party at Cal Bowl December 31: Join Cal Bowl for a fun familyfriendly New Year’s Eve with bowling, drawing for prizes, pizza, soda and Tutti Frutti Yogurt Bar. Thursday, call for times. $20 per person or $100 up to 6 people per lane. 2500 E. Carson St., Lakewood. (562) 421-8448. www.calbowl.com Family-Friendly New Year’s Eve in Long Beach December 31: Beginning at 5 p.m., the waterfront amphitheater in Downtown Long Beach comes alive with a flurry of family-friendly activities, including live bands, face painting, balloon artists, a trackless train and a 9 p.m. fireworks show over the lighthouse peninsula. Thursday. Free. www.downtownlongbeach.org First Night 2015 in Fullerton December 31: Stop by Downtown Fullerton to ring lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

in the New Year! Enjoy kids activities, rides, live entertainment, food vendors and a fireworks show at midnight. Thursday, 7 p.m. - midnight. Admission is free; rides and activities, minimal fee. Downtown Fullerton. Harbor Blvd., Pomona Ave., and Wilshire Ave. (714) 738-6545. www.cityoffullerton.com Kids’ New Year’s Eve Celebration at Legoland California December 31: The New Year’s Eve festivities kickoff early at Legoland California with a party that lets kids celebrate the ringing in of 2016 without missing their bedtime! Like the famous ball dropping in Times Square, Kids’ New Year’s Eve features live music, entertainers and a countdown of its own with a huge Lego brick that drops 22 feet into 2016 followed by a spectacular fireworks display. Includes performances by some of the top children’s entertainment groups in the nation. Thursday, begins at 2 p.m. $78+. One Legoland Drive, Carlsbad. (760) 918-5346. www.california.legoland.com/en/KNYE

ers, dance to the music of Clint Perry and the Boohoo Crew performing 11:30 a.m., and countdown to the “noon year” at noon. Thursday, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Please arrive early and anticipate a line upon arrival.

The balloon drop will occur at noon. Please note: the Museum will close early at 3 p.m. Included with admission. 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena. (626) 4499144. www.kidspacemuseum.org Noon Year’s Eve Party at My Gym December 31: Join My Gym for a fun “Noon Years” celebration. Thursday, 11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., choose a one-hour time slot. Call for details and prices. 3287 Industry Drive, Signal Hill. (562) 9860066. www.mygym.com/longbeach

New Year’s Eve at Knott’s Berry Farm December 31: Count down the New Year with music, live entertainment and performances of the “Merry Christmas, Snoopy!” ice show. Plus, mesmerizing fireworks will cover the night’s sky.

Thursday, call for times. Included with admission.

8039 Beach Blvd., Buena Park. (714) 220-5055. www.knotts.com New Year’s Noon Party in La Habra December 31: No longer will your little ones feel left out by the late night New Year’s festivities!

The whole family can celebrate the countdown to 12 o’clock noon! Complete with hat making, face painting, dancing and a balloon drop, the Children’s Museum knows how to ring in the New Year in style. Thursday, 10 a.m. - noon. Please RSVP to (562) 383-4236. Reservations required. Children’s Museum at La Habra, 301 S. Euclid St., La Habra. (562) 383-4236. www.lhcm.org Noon Year’s Eve at Kidspace December 31: Ring in the noon year at Kidspace with live music, streamers, sparkling cider, and a balloon drop. Celebrate the end of 2015 and beginning of 2016! Arrive early to make party hats and noisemaklots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

Polar Bear Plunge in San Pedro January 1: Join the Cabrillo Beach Polar Bears for the first swim of the year, plus the crowning of their new king and queen. After a brief swim or dip, everyone gets an official certificate, plus coffee, hot cocoa and cupcakes provided by the Lady Polar Bears.

Thursday, 11:30 a.m. Cabrillo Beach Bathhouse, 3800 Stephen M. White Drive, San Pedro. (310) 5487554. www.cabrillobeachpolarbears.com

DANCE

New Year’s Eve All-Night Skate in Fountain Valley December 31: Ring in 2016 at Fountain Valley Skating Center, where you and your family can skate and play games all night. Gather your friends and pillows, and prepare to be entertained. Admission includes a hot dog and soda, and a doughnut after 6 a.m.

Thursday, 9 p.m. - Friday, 7 a.m. $20 per person.

9105 Recreation Circle, Fountain Valley. (714) 8470022. www.fountainvalleyskatingcenter.com New Year’s Eve at Grand Park LA December 31: Now in its third year, Grand Park’s N.Y.E. LA has become the go-to central gathering place in Los Angeles where Angelenos ring in the New Year. Grand Park’s N.Y.E. LA includes music, dancing and compelling art installations, along with a remarkable countdown, featuring 3-D digital video mapping on two sides of City Hall. Thursday, 8 p.m. - 1 a.m. Free. Downtown Los Angeles. www.grandparkla.org

All-Day Skate in Fountain Valley January 1: Spend the first day of 2016 skating all day! Friday, noon - 6 p.m. $12, includes skate rental. 9105 Recreation Circle, Fountain Valley. www.fountainvalleyskatingcenter.com

FUN

MUSIC ART

ORANGE COUNTY SCHOOL OF THE ARTS FOUNDATION

2016 WINTER/SPRING SESSION February 20 - MAY 14, 2016 SATURDAY ART CLASSES (various grades) Ballroom Dance Creative Writing Guitar Musical Theatre Training Painting & Drawing

$500 $550 $450 $625 $575

(12:00 - 2:00 pm) (9:00 am - noon) (2:00 - 4:00 pm) (1:00 - 4:00 pm) (1:00 - 4:00 pm)

*Participation in these classes does not guarantee acceptance into OCSA

Click here: www.ocsarts.net/communityclasses For more information call 714.560.0900 ext. 5630 or 3259.

All classes are held on the school campus and taught by OCSA’s professional artist teachers.

1010 N. Main Street, Santa Ana, CA 92701 | 714.560.0900 | www.ocsarts.net

2016 SUMMER ARTS ACADEMY: June - July 2016

Online registration for summer program starts mid-January, 2016 at www.ocsarts.net/summer kidsguide holiday guide 2015 45

Our Picks!

• California Music Studios Jennifer Paterson, President (800) 227-6222 www.CaliforniaMusicStudios.com Did you know that music students have better math and science skills, score 61% higher on the SATs, and are 52% more likely to attend college than the average student? California Music Studios invites your family to enjoy all the benefits that learning music has to offer through private instruction in the comfort of your home or in one of over 300 locations. CMS offers lessons in all instruments and styles of music, and will find you the highly trained, university graduate teacher that best suits your needs. Their friendly staff is available to assist students seven days a week, and their teachers are happy to set a lesson schedule that is convenient for you. California Music Studio’s free recital program keeps students motivated, and with over 65 performances a year, students are able to perform regularly.

Please call or visit their website today to see what makes them different. See ad on page 31.

• Dream Come True Party Room 3962 Studebaker Road, Ste. 204, Long Beach (562) 270-1400 www.DreamComeTruePartyRoom.com Step into a picture-perfect party at the Dream Come True Party Room. This is not your typical party place, it’s a whimsical setting that both adults and children will love! They also offer play dates, Kid’s Happy Hour, weekly tea time, family music programs and special events (see “Calendar”). Choose from more than a dozen unique and magical themes for your party, including Tower Princess, Woodland, Mermaids, Pretty in Pink, Pirates, Bollywood/Arabian Nights, Ice Princess and many more. Parties include use of the party room, magical decorations and props, tableware, dress-up outfits and face painting, plus crafts, storytelling, games and music. Food is provided. Add-ons can include colorful invitations, balloon art, glitter hairdos, a crowning ceremony, party favors or fairytale character appearances. See ad on page 33.

• The Guidance Center (562) 485-3085 www.tgclb.org In Long Beach since 1946, the agency provides English/Spanish mental health assessment and treatment, including individual, group, and family counseling and psychotherapy, medication, and psychological testing for children, teens and their families for a wide range of behavioral, social, emotional, family and school problems. Clinic locations in Long Beach, San Pedro, Compton and school-based services in Avalon. See ad on page 14.

46 kidsguide holiday guide 2015

• Japanese American National Museum 100 North Central Ave., Los Angeles (213) 625-0414 www.janm.org Established in 1985, the Japanese American National Museum promotes understanding and appreciation of America’s ethnic and cultural diversity by sharing the Japanese American experience. JANM is a hybrid institution that straddles traditional museum categories and strives to provide a voice for Japanese Americans as well as a forum that enables all people to explore their own heritage and culture.

Open Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.; and Thursday, noon - 8 p.m. See ad on page 31.

• Keen Ramps (562) 715-8643 www.keenramps.com Keen Ramps manufactures premium quality skateboarding and action-sports ramps, based out of Long Beach, California. They’re committed to offering affordable obstacles ideal for all ages and skill levels. Whether you want a small kicker ramp for your little one to learn how to catch some air, or you’re looking to deck out your entire backyard with a custom mini-half pipe, nobody will get you rolling better than Keen Ramps. Plus, for a limited time you can receive 10% off your entire order when you enter “Kidsguide 2015” at checkout! They also offer a unique and not-to-mention affordable rental service for birthday parties and events—what better way to take your party to the next level with a mobile skatepark delivered to your home or any preferred destination! Rental packages start at just $199. Keen Ramps has the expertise, equipment and crew to exceed you and your child’s wildest expectations. Let the good times roll!

Email: info@keenramps.com. See ad on page 25.

• Kidnastics Quality Gymnastics and Cheerleading Training Center 10712 Reagan St., Los Alamitos (562) 431-1102 www.kidnastics.net Kidnastics has been pleased to offer quality gymnastics instruction for over 38 years. As a recreational gymnastics and cheerleading facility with over 23,000 square feet of full-line gymnastics equipment and various levels of spring floors, they offer nothing but the best instructional classes for your children. Here, children learn all levels of gymnastics and cheer. Known for their quality and effective instructional classes, they strive to provide a positive and fun experience by teaching the importance of staying fit and having fun with gymnastics and cheer. They offer a variety of classes for children 12 months through the teen years. Programs include TotNastics, their early motor development classes designed for children 12-36 months, and gymnastics and tumbling classes for ages 3 years and up. In addition to their great gymnastics program, they also offer competitive cheer programs: HSC All Stars for ages 3-18 years; for all skill levels, their newly developed special needs teams, exciting seasonal gymnastics camps throughout the year, and birthday party packages. See ad on page 28.

• Kid Works Children’s Center 3621 E. Broadway, Long Beach (562) 438-4909 www.kidworkscc.com Kid Works offers preschool, pre-k, pre-k enrichment and after-school kindergarten programs. Curriculum and environment are designed to stimulate, challenge, and allow children time and space to work. Kid Works’ definition of the child’s day of work is “Play with a Purpose.” Everything they do or offer children has a purpose, which is key to the child’s development.

Children learn through hands-on experiences, whether gardening, cooking or painting. The staff is dedicated to the idea that children develop and learn best in an atmosphere that is warm, safe, encouraging, understanding, motivating and fun! Visit their website for detailed information, including daily activity schedules.

Email: kidworkscc@hotmail.com. See ad on page 41.

• Lice Clinics of America-Los Alamitos 4012 Katella Ave., Ste. 104, Los Alamitos (562) 431-LICE (5423) www.lcalosalamitos.com Lice Clinics of America is the largest network of lice treatment centers in the world. The Los Alamitos Clinic is the exclusive regional provider of the AirAllé, a revolutionary, FDA-cleared medical device that uses heated air to kill lice and their eggs in a single, one-hour treatment so powerful that they can guarantee the results for 30 days! No toxic chemicals, no pesticides, no follow-up appointments, no athome combing, no hourly rates or extra charges.

They offer a flat, per person rate, 100% lice-freeguarantee Email: ihatelice@lcalosalamitos.com.

See ad on page 33.

• OCSA’s Foundation Arts Enrichment Program 1010 N. Main St., Santa Ana (714) 560-0900, Ext. 3259 or 5630 www.ocsarts.net/communityclasses Enroll now for the winter/spring session of OCSA’s Foundation Arts Enrichment Program, with classes beginning February 20. The Saturday art classes, offered for a variety of grades, are available in Ballroom Dance, Creative Writing, Guitar, Musical Theatre Training, and Painting and Drawing. All classes are held on the school campus and taught by OCSA’s professional artist teachers. Also, online registration begins mid-January for their 2016 Summer Arts Academy, which will run June - July; mark your calendar now! See ad on page 45.

• Pretend City Children’s Museum 29 Hubble, Irvine (949) 428-3900 www.pretendcity.org Pretend City Children’s Museum is an interconnected city designed just for children (infant-8). The city is comprised of a grocery store, farm, doctor’s office, art studio, amphitheater, beach, marina, construction site and many other exhibits. At Pretend City, children learn through role play based on real-world experiences as they dress up as a police officer, deliver the mail, create art, compose music or put out a fire. Designed to align with the California State Standards and Preschool Learning Foundation, Pretend City’s educational pro-

lots more fun at kidsguidemagazine.com

grams engage children (pre-school - 3rd grade) through school field trips, where the museum is the classroom and learning comes to life. See ad on page 45.

• Rainbow Chefs (855) 485-2433 www.rainbowchefs.com Looking for a one-of-a-kind birthday party idea? Cook up a delicious event with Rainbow Chefs, who combine fun, kid-friendly recipes with health education to inspire a love for cooking and healthy eating. Your party guests (ages 5+) will have a great time getting their hands on quick and easy do-it-yourself recipes that they get to eat! At your home, their venue, or at your favorite party location, you can sit back, relax and let Rainbow Chefs do all the work. Full customizable party themes include Cupcake Wars, Iron Chef Challenge, Around the World and more! See ad on page 40.

• Skatedogs (714) 313-8787 www.skatedogs.com After-school and weekend classes in skateboarding, one of the world’s fastest growing sports. Offered in conjunction with the recreation departments of Beverly Hills, Brea, Cerritos, Cypress, Glendora, Huntington Beach, Irvine, Lakewood, Long Beach, Los Alamitos, Manhattan Beach, Newport Beach, Redondo Beach, Seal Beach and Tustin. They offer classes for all ability levels. Kids (6-13) will make new friends, advance their skateboarding skills, and most importantly, have fun—all in Skatedogs’ private skatepark.

They also offer private lessons, birthday parties and camps during school breaks. See ad on page 29.

• Southern California Tennis Academy 2800 Studebaker Road, Long Beach (562) 425-0553 www.sctennisacademy.com The Southern California Tennis Academy Developmental program is for beginning to intermediate players, ages 5-16. All players learn proper stroke fundamentals and footwork patterns, which prepares each athlete for eventual tournament and competitive play. All players are separated into their appropriate level and work with coaches from the academies high-performance workout. The year-round after-school program runs Monday - Friday 5-7 p.m.

Winter, spring and summer camps run weekly, Monday - Friday, 9 a.m. - noon. For more information, visit the website at www.sctennisacademy.com or email Brittnie Furuvald at brittnie@sctennisacademy.com.

See ad on page 11.

Spotlight on Businesses • United States Youth Volleyball League (888) 988-7985 www.USYVL.org USYVL provides an eight-week instructional youth volleyball league for boys and girls, ages 7-15. This is a great opportunity for children to learn and play volleyball in a fun and positive environment. Every site has a volleyball instructor (clinician) who guides the volunteer coaches and the players in a structured teaching method to ensure participants are developing proper volleyball skills. USVL offers many locations in Orange County, including: Aliso Viejo, Fountain Valley, Huntington Beach, Irvine, Laguna Niguel, Lake Forest, Mission Viejo and San Clemente. See ad on page 21.

• Valley Christian Schools Admissions’ Open House Events www.vcschools.org January 23 or February 6: Visit the Valley Christian Schools campuses. Valley Christian Schools offers an extraordinary education where Christian students develop in a variety of areas: academics, including AP and Honors courses; fine arts, robotics and sports, missions and service—all with Christ at the center.

Contact Diane at (562) 860-0556 for more information. Saturdays. Middle School, Cerritos campus, January 23, noon. High School, Cerritos campus, January 23, 2 p.m. Elementary School, Bellflower campus, February 6, 10 a.m. See ad on page 41.

• Vans Skatepark 20 City Blvd. West, Orange 92868 (714) 769-3800 www.vans.com Vans Skatepark is a 40,000-square-foot facility featuring a full skate and BMX course for all skill levels, ages six and older. The location also houses a full Vans retail store and skate pro shop. Birthday party packages, private lessons and skate camps are available. Vans Skatepark is open seven days a

week, 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. (9 p.m. on Sundays). Please go to vans.com/skateparks for more information.

Sign up for Holiday Clinics on Saturday, December 12 and 19. See ad on page 13.

• Wise Woman’s Resources (562) 477-9034 Wise Woman’s Resources offers effective mortgage refi programs to drop your payments. Additionally, they offer an energy efficiency home improvement program with 100% financing, and no money down. This program is not based on your FICO score and no proof of employment or income is required. Call Jenny Nocco at (562) 477-9034 or email JennyNocco888@gmail. com for more information. See ad on page 32.

• YaYa’s Performance Academy (562) 355-2004 www.yayasacademy.com YaYa’s Performance Academy is a youth- and family-based program that provides the community with the opportunity to actively participate in and explore the art of musical theatre in a safe, positive and nurturing environment. They strive to keep the performing arts alive at the local level by producing high-quality productions and by training participants in singing, acting and dancing. They welcome participants of all backgrounds, abilities and levels of experience, and believe theatre is a way to bond families and unite our diverse community through this collaborative art form. All who enroll and complete the training are guaranteed a role in the show. Upcoming performance includes “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” in January, and spring show with rehearsals February - May. See ad on page 48.

• The Tutoring Center 4215 Atlantic Ave., Long Beach (562) 653-4380 www.tutoringcenter.com Are you happy with your child’s grades? Call The Tutoring Center today to schedule your Free Diagnostic Assessment. The Tutoring Center uses a unique system known as “The Rotational Approach to Learning.”

Your child will receive intense one-to-one instruction in reading, math (all levels) and/or writing to rapidly increase academic skills while also improving concentration, focus and attention span. See ad on page 37.

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kidsguide holiday guide 2015 47

Rose Parade Float Showcase in Pasadena January 1-3: Walk within feet of the floral and animated masterpieces. Come rain or shine, take a closer look at the design and workmanship that went into each float entry and learn more about the float process. Comfortable walking shoes and early arrival are suggested. No pets or bikes allowed. Friday, 1-5 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. $10. Sierra Madre and Washington boulevards. www.tournamentofroses.com

tional Skating Month! Find discounts for all new skating school registrants, all public skating admission and gym memberships, plus pro-shop and snack bar specials. They will have raffles, giveaways and more. Also, free ice skating lessons, on select Fridays, 6-6:30 p.m.

Discounts on select services will be offered throughout January and February in honor of the sport’s celebration; call for details. 11446 Artesia Blvd., Artesia. (562) 8096200. www.eastwesticepalace.com. See ad on page 17.

Surf City Splash at Huntington Beach Pier January 1: Celebrate the New Year with a dip into the chilly Pacific Ocean. Be sure to wear your bathing suit.

No wetsuits—that’s cheating! Thursday, registration, pancake breakfast, and craft fair, 8 a.m.; costume contest, 11 a.m.; the big splash into the ocean, noon.

Registration $20 online, $30 at the event, benefiting Huntington Beach International Surfing Museum and local surf clubs. All participants receive a T-shirt, breakfast and certificate of appreciation. 325 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach. www.hbsurfcitysplash.com

• Oshogatsu Family Festival in LA January 3: Celebrate the Year of the Monkey with fun cultural activities and performances, special foods, and fun crafts. Start your new year off right with a free bowl of lucky zaru soba (cold buckwheat noodles) while supplies last. See Shan the Candyman create monkey candy sculptures, which will be raffled off throughout the day; watch Kodama Taiko perform a traditional mochitsuki (Japanese rice pounding ritual); and enjoy a shishimai (Japanese-style lion dance) with Kinnara Taiko; and more. Sunday, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Free!

100 N. Central Ave., Los Angeles. (213) 625-0414. www.janm.org/oshogatsufest2016. See ad on page 31.

Tournament of Roses Parade January 1: The 127th Rose Parade features floral floats, spirited marching bands and high-stepping equestrian units along the 5.5-mile route down Colorado Boulevard. Experience the magic of New Year’s Day in an unrivaled celebration. Friday, 8-11 a.m.

Grandstand seating, $48-95. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. www.tournamentofroses.com • U.S. Figure Skating Association’s National Skating Month Celebration in Artesia January 2: Join East West Ice Palace to celebrate Na-

48 kidsguide holiday guide 2015

• You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown with Yaya’s Academy in Long Beach January 8-10, 15-17: It’s “an average day in the life of Charlie Brown.” Little moments picked from all the days of Charlie Brown, from Valentine’s Day to the baseball season, from wild optimism to utter despair, are all mixed in with the lives of his friends.

Snoopy, Lucy and more are strung together on the string of a single day, from bright uncertain morning to hopeful starlit evening. Join the Peanuts gang in

this fast-paced, lighthearted musical, guaranteed to please audiences of all ages! Check their website for performance times and ticket prices. CSULB’s Link Theater, 2892 N. Bellflower Blvd., #302, Long Beach.

(562) 355-2004. www.yayasacademy.com. See ad on page 48.

• Before-the-Ball Princess School and Dance Party in Long Beach January 23: Join Dream Come True Party Room for a fun evening of dinner and dancing. But before you can enjoy the evening like a princess, you must do your chores and make your evil stepmother and sisters happy. Enjoy dress-up, princess make-up, craft, games and dancing. Pizza dinner will be served.

Space is limited, advance reservations required.

Kids, $35, includes one adult. Saturday, 6-7:30 p.m.

3962 Studebaker Road, Ste. 204, Long Beach. (562) 270-1400. www.DreamComeTruePartyRoom.com. See ad on page 33.

• Valley Christian Schools Admissions Open House Events January 23 or February 6: Visit the Valley Christian Schools campuses. Valley Christian Schools offer an extraordinary education where Christian students develop in a variety of areas: academics, including AP and Honors courses; fine arts, robotics and sports, missions and service—all with Christ at the center.

Contact Diane at (562) 860-0556 for more information.

Saturdays. Middle School, Cerritos campus, January 23, noon. High School, Cerritos campus, January 23, 2 p.m.

Elementary School, Bellflower campus, February 6, 10 a.m. www.vcschools.org. See ad on page 41.

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The Gift That Keeps on Giving

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