Featured SoCal Events and Services

OC Parks March Featured Programs & Events

MARCH 2026 FEATURED EVENTS March 3, 11 & 31 – Spring Fling Preschool Program 10:15 – 11:15 a.m. | OC Zoo at Irvine Regional Park This program is for ages 3 to 4 only. Class includes hands-on learning, fun crafts and meeting zoo creatures up close! Cost is $5 per child (one parent included). Parent or guardian must accompany their child for the entire program. Parking is $3 per … [Read More...]

Springtime in The Inlands: Route 66 Centennial, Superblooms and Local Culture

Photo by Diamond Valley Marina. As spring returns to The Inlands, the region is transforming into a premier destination for road-trippers, nature lovers and culture seekers. From the historic 100th anniversary of Route 66 to the vibrant peaks of the San Bernardino Mountains, spring 2026 offers a rare blend of nostalgia and adventure. 100 Years on the Mother Road This year marks … [Read More...]

March Is Mermaid Month at Ventura Harbor Village 

Make waves this March with Mermaid Month at Ventura Harbor Village with two fun-filled days of seaside adventure on Saturdays March 7 and 21, perfect for mermaid fans of all ages. Enjoy ocean-inspired festivities, special events, a nod to pirates, and themed treats.  Grab mer-mazing mermaid merchandise from Ventura Harbor Village shops, take a photo at the mermaid shell photo opp and participate … [Read More...]

St. Paddy’s Day Street Party + Outdoor Bar on Third Street Promenade (March 14)

Courtesy of Downtown Santa Monica, Inc.   Downtown Santa Monica, Inc. is celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in Irish spirit with St. Paddy’s Day on the Promenade, a lively evening of live music, games, photo ops and festive fun on the iconic Third Street Promenade.  Taking place on Saturday, March 14, 2026, from 6 to 9 p.m., the free event will transform the 1300 block of … [Read More...]

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SoCal City Kids News

Aquarium releases Porkchop, a rescued sea turtle, after nearly one year of rehabilitation

Porkchop, a rescued green sea turtle is released into the San Gabriel River after nearly a year of rehabilitation and medical care at Aquarium of the Pacific on Friday, February 27, 2026 in Long Beach, California. Photo Credit:  Robin Riggs. After receiving nearly one year of rehabilitation and medical care at the Aquarium of the Pacific, a rescued green sea turtle has made its way back … [Read More...]

Places to go in LA: California Science Center’s Newest exhibit-Mummies Of The World: The Exhibition

Produced by World Heritage Exhibitions Mummies of the World: The Exhibitionbrings together over 30 naturally and intentionally preserved human and animalmummies from South America, Europe, and ancient Egypt. Since its world premiere at the California Science Center in 2010, the exhibition has fascinated millions throughout Europe and the United States. It returns to Los Angeles for its closing … [Read More...]

 Laguna Art Museum Collaborates with Over 100 Renowned California Artists for the 44th Annual California Cool Art Auction

Shepard Fairey, Another Day in the Coal Mine, 2023. AP, Silkscreen on wood panel. 18 x 24 in. Courtesy of Shepard Fairey/OBEY GIANT ART  Laguna Art Museum has announced the return of its signature fundraising event, the 44th Annual California Cool Art Auction, a vibrant celebration of California art, creativity and community. Featuring works by more than 100 distinguished California … [Read More...]

 “Dreams Gather Here” Opens at ReflectSpace, Feb. 17

 ReflectSpace at Glendale Central Library is pleased to present Dreams Gather Here, a solo exhibition by Rachel Hakimian Emenaker, on view from February 17 through April 26, 2026. The exhibition explores how the cultural memory of diasporic communities is preserved in the history of material objects. Moving across geographies that include Armenia, Lebanon, Russia, South America, and … [Read More...]

Enjoying Live Events Without Overspending

Live events bring energy and excitement that can’t be replaced by screens. Concerts, sports games, and theater shows create shared moments that people remember long after the event ends. As interest in live entertainment continues to grow, so does awareness around ticket pricing and how quickly costs can rise. Finding ways to manage these expenses has become part of the planning process for … [Read More...]

Featured Products

Valentine’s Day 2026 Gift Suggestions

Love these ideas! MetalPlex Wall Art This Valentine’s Day, MetalPlex offers a meaningful way to celebrate love with personalized metal wall art handcrafted in Austin, Texas from eco‑friendly recycled aluminum, with prices starting at $53. From infinity symbols with custom hearts to metal heart designs, couple name signs, and romantic phrases like “I Love You,” “You & Me,” and … [Read More...]

New Year! Is Gluten-Free one of your Goals?

 Éban’s Bakehouse Every January, millions of Americans commit to feeling better, eating cleaner, and eliminating foods that don’t serve them, including gluten. Whether someone has a diagnosed sensitivity or simply feels better without it, one of the biggest challenges is sticking to those goals when favorite comfort foods feel off limits. That’s where Éban’s … [Read More...]

Last Minute Holiday Gift Suggestions-Also Great for the New Year!

Great gift for History lovers! New York’s Secret Subway: The Underground Genius of Alfred Beach and the Origins of Mass Transit (Island Press, Sept. 30, 2025) by public radio host and acclaimed historian Matthew Algeo uncovers the riveting true story of Alfred Beach, the mild-mannered 19th-century inventor who secretly built America’s first operational subway beneath Broadway. It was an … [Read More...]

Holiday Must-Haves!

One Minute Christmas Tree One Minute Christmas Tree delivers hand-selected, premium Christmas trees straight to your door—quickly, effortlessly, and with heart. Family-owned and rooted in tradition, the brand combines top-tier tree quality with a mission to spread holiday joy, including charitable donations to families in need. Fun and easy to set this one up! And, it is also available on … [Read More...]

Gift Ideas from The Queen Mary for Everyone On Board Your List

Credit: The Queen Mary Five unforgettable gift ideas for the history buff, entertainment lover, and “ship-ee” in your life. It’s beginning to look a lot like ship-mas! Searching for the perfect gift for the history enthusiast or that hard-to-shop-for person on your holiday list? Look no further! The Queen Mary in Long Beach has something special for everyone. From exclusive memberships and … [Read More...]

It’s Time for Stocking Stuffer Ideas!

https://oldtrapper.com/collections/beef-jerky Does someone on your gift shopping list love Beef Jerky? Old Trapper has you covered! They have a great variety, and it tastes so fresh! There's Old Fashioned, Peppered, Teriyaki and even Hot Spicy! You may have to try them all to see which one is your favorite! I do like the Teriyaki one the best! You can find individual bags in the stores or you … [Read More...]

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Giveaways

Media Reviews

Books of the Month: March 2026

An intensely brave, gorgeously written story about a gay Muslim teen who has to choose between being true to himself or his faith—and his realization that maybe they aren’t as separate as he thought.Now a senior at the top-ranked high school for Muslim teenagers, Pakistani Canadian Ramin can’t wait for the fresh start of college. He’s spent his whole life following the word of Allah, his parents, … [Read More...]

GOAT * Fast-Paced Action, Innovative Animation, Strong Storyline Plus Stephen Curry

A small goat with big dreams gets a once-in-a-lifetime shot to join the pros and play roarball, a high-intensity, co-ed, full-contact sport dominated by the fastest, fiercest animals in the world. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Braedyn M. comments, “GOAT is the absolute, well, G.O.A.T. (greatest of all time)!  Fast paced action, innovative animation styles, a strong and relatable storyline, plus … [Read More...]

Books of the Week: February 22, 2026

Perfect book for the upcoming Spring! Little Bunny’s To-Do List  By Helen Kemp Zax; Illustrated by Kiersten Eve Eagan Perfect for Easter and everyday reading, this charming picture book follows the Easter Bunny through a delightfully busy day—harvesting jellybeans, coloring eggs, knitting tiny sweaters, and more—guided all the while by his trusty to-do list. Young readers join … [Read More...]

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Beauty and Fashion Corner

It’s still Butterbeer Season! ORLY Butterbeer Nail Polish and Nail Care Products are a Must-Buy!

Harry Potter/Orly Butterbeer was first introduced in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban as the trio huddled in The Three Broomsticks. With its butterscotch and shortbread notes, Butterbeer has become a global fan favorite.  Butterbeer Season is the annual salute to the flavor, scent and look of Butterbeer and takes place between March 1 and May 31. I love the nail products available … [Read More...]

Eco-Friendly Teen Skincare Line is a Must-Try!

SKWAD SKWAD, founded by Elise Kandrac, was inspired by her concern for her teenagers' self-esteem and the gender-specific nature of skincare products for young teens. The Hawaiian values are reflected in the brand's mission. SKWAD is committed to environmental responsibility, choosing packaging and ingredients with the planet in mind. Their marine-safe formulations are custom-made, and they … [Read More...]

Regenerative Glow: Glen Ivy Hot Springs New Radiant Results Facial Featuring Luminant Skincare Line

Images courtesy of Glen Ivy Hot Springs.  Experience the ultimate skincare innovation with Regenerative Glow by Glen Ivy Hot Springs. Combine the new Radiant Results facial and Luminant skin care products by [comfort zone] for a comprehensive approach to radiant, healthy skin. After just one Radiant Results facial and consistent use of the Luminant skincare routine for … [Read More...]

Luv Ur Skin Products are a Must-Try!

Luv Ur Skin (LUS) Luv Ur Skin (LUS) is an Australian-based brand that offers the best natural skincare for this age group and their sensitive skin. Izzi Dymalovski launched Luv Ur Skin when she was 13-years-old. While dealing with her skincare issues and searching for the right products, she put her trust in nature and a powerful native Australian plant extract, Plantolin, to give … [Read More...]

Pet Corner

RJ, Feb. 27 Pet of the Week

AWWWWWWWW! Want a challenge? We present RJ, a glossy, black kitten. He had been adopted previously but became ill in his new home, so his owners returned him. The veterinarians found out that he’s FIV-positive, which means that he has a virus that affects his immune system. RJ grew up in an isolation ward at Long Beach Animal Care Services without much interaction or socialization, but … [Read More...]

Wetherby, Feb 20 Pet of the Week

AWWWWWW! Let's find him a forever home!! Wetherby won’t remove his hat yet because it’s been so weatherly outdoors. Wetherby’s a perfect example of a German shepherd: affectionate, loyal, and a glutton for play and exercise. Approach him with a pull-toy, and get ready for a tug-of-war workout for both of you. Wetherby wears a lot of hats, and the one he’s got on right now is his foster dog … [Read More...]

Paisley, Fri. 13 Pet of the Week

Paisley is a good, good girl! She recently took a Fido Field Trip with shelter volunteer Patti, and she was a model passenger once Patti helped her get her rear end into the car. But Paisley’s no lazybones (hey, did someone say “Bones”?)—the field trip included a trip to the Zoom Room where she played like a puppy, and she sure loved the double-double Puppy Patty that Patti (no pun intended, … [Read More...]

Holly, Feb. 6 Pet of the Week

Long Beach Animal Care Services volunteers often select dogs to participate in Fido Field Trips. These involve taking the lucky pups out into the community to enjoy a day walking around the street on a leash, maybe go pick up a Pup Patty at In-N-Out, and best yet, spend time at the volunteer’s home so the doggie can remember what it was like not to be cooped up in a kennel! These little trips give … [Read More...]