Featured SoCal Events and Services
Harbor Glow lights up the San Pedro waterfront— early-bird pricing ends Friday, November 13

Bundle up and bring the family to West Harbor in San Pedro for Harbor Glow, a walk-through holiday light experience running November 20 through January 3. Explore glowing ocean scenes and winter displays along the waterfront. Book by Friday, November 13 to take advantage of early-bird pricing. Families visiting together can choose a Family Pack, which includes admission for two adults and two … [Read More...]
IllumaNature: California Coastin’ at the Santa Barbara Zoo

Get ready for a completely reimagined nighttime experience at the Santa Barbara Zoo! IllumaNature: California Coastin’ transforms the Zoo after dark into an immersive, glowing journey through California’s iconic landscapes. Wander among thousands of lights, explore interactive installations and encounter illuminated wildlife inspired by the animals that make our state so special. Travel from … [Read More...]
Before the Forest Falls, Aquarium of the Pacific’s Award-Winning Film’s Public Debut on November 11

Photo Credit: The Aquarium of the Pacific. As Southern California’s kelp forests disappear at an alarming rate, the Aquarium of the Pacific’s animal care and conservation team is working relentlessly to turn the tide. A new award-winning film, created by documentary filmmaker Chris Stanford, follows the Aquarium of the Pacific team in their quest to save two endangered kelp forest species: … [Read More...]
11/21&22: Aquarium’s Autumn Festival will feature music, dance, storytelling, and more

Northern Shaolim Kung Fu – Lion Dance during Northern Shaolim Kung Fu – Lion Dance during 23rd annual Autumn Festival at Aquarium of the Pacific on November 16, 2024 in Long Beach, California. Photo Credit: The Aquarium of the Pacific. The festival, now in its twenty-fifth year, will take place on November 21 and 22, 2026. The Aquarium of the Pacific’s twenty-fifth annual Autumn … [Read More...]
SoCal City Kids News

The new Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center at the California Science Center opens to the public on Friday, November 13, 2026.
November 11, 2026 By DeniseB Leave a Comment
The new Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center at the California Science Center opens to the public on Friday, November 13, 2026, the only place in the world to see a complete, authentic space shuttle system, with a flown orbiter, solid rocket boosters, and external tank, displayed in a 20-story-tall launch configuration. This transformative 200,000-square-foot expansion of the California Science … [Read More...]

Holiday Ice Rink Pershing Square DTLA- Nov 12, 2026 -Jan 3, 202
November 9, 2026 By DeniseB Leave a Comment
Skaters enjoying the Holiday Ice Rink Pershing SquarePhoto Credit: Bryan Allen The Holiday Ice Rink Pershing Square returns to downtown Los Angeles this winter, open from Thursday, November 12, 2026 to Sunday, January 3, 2027. Our annual celebration event takes place on Thursday evening, November 19, in Pershing Square.Open seasonally, The Holiday Ice Rink Pershing Square has brought … [Read More...]

Free Children’s Storytime & Book Signing in Calabasas on Nov. 7
November 6, 2026 By DeniseB Leave a Comment
Debut children's author Michelle Grace will host a free storytime and book signing at Barnes & Noble on Saturday, November 7, at 11 AM. The event will also feature giveaways, complimentary essential oil samples, and more. Her debut book, I'm Right Here, is written for children ages 4–8 and follows a mother's love across the universe as she searches for her shining star. Saturday, … [Read More...]

P.F. Chang’s Launches New Children’s Book Supporting Starlight Children’s Foundation
November 6, 2026 By DeniseB Leave a Comment
yummy! P.F. Chang's has released a new digital children's book, Meet Bao: The Spirit of Strength, written by Jenny Liao and illustrated by Adriane Tsai. The heartwarming story follows Bao, the Horse of Strength, as he teaches young readers about courage, kindness and compassion. Created in partnership with Starlight Children's Foundation, the book aims to bring comfort and joy to children … [Read More...]

Spooky Season at Santa Monica Place – Line Dancing, Cooking Classes & More!
October 16, 2026 By DeniseB Leave a Comment
Credit: Santa Monica Place Here’s a quick look at what’s happening: Western Wednesday: Halloween Edition Wednesday, October 28 from 6–8 p.m. HaLouLouWeen Night Saturday, October 31 at 6 p.m. until late Kid’s Halloween Baking Classes at The Gourmandise School Sunday, October 25 from 2–4:30 p.m. Saturday, October 31 from 10 A.M–12:00 p.m. Halloween Harvest Date Night at … [Read More...]
Featured Products
Nest & Notebooks: Printables for Learning and Time Together

A story to read with your child, a writing activity for a quiet afternoon, or a journal you can fill in together—Nest & Notebooks offers printable resources for learning and family life. Available on Teachers Pay Teachers, the collection includes short stories with questions for reading practice, beginnings of stories for children to finish, and journals where they can write or draw about … [Read More...]
Halloween Treats that aren’t Candy!

A healthier option! Looking for something other than candy to give the kids this Halloween? They are sure to get more candy than they need! Here's a healthier option that kids and adults are going to love! My favorite is the all mango! Crispy Green, maker of Crispy Fruit freeze-dried fruit snacks made with just one ingredient, has a few easy ideas for adding something different to the … [Read More...]
Spooky and Fun Halloween Gift Suggestions for the Kids!

Available on OrientalTrading.com Oriental Trading 54" x 54" Halloween Let's Get Spooky Fleece Tied Blanket Craft Kit | MSRP: $27.99 | Available on OrientalTrading.com Decorate your haunt with a blanket featuring a haunted house! This convenient craft kit includes two pieces of fleece with pre-cut fringe that kids can tie together to create a blanket that has the image of a haunted house, … [Read More...]
More Back-to-School Must-Buys!

Here are some of my favorite food products for Back-to-School time! Clover Sonoma Greek Yogurt is a must-try! As families gear up for back-to-school season, many parents are looking for nutritious snacks and breakfasts that keep kids energized and focused throughout the day. I'm reaching out on behalf of Clover Sonoma. We’d welcome the opportunity to support you on a lifestyle or … [Read More...]
Back-to-School for College Students!

Here are some great gift suggestions for your college students! This Air Fryer is the coolest! Fritaire Air Fryer upgrades dorm cooking beyond ramen and microwave meals. Its 1500W halogen heating system and vortex convection technology create crispy, evenly cooked food, while the self-cleaning glass bowl makes cleanup quick and easy in compact living spaces. I love how stylish this is and … [Read More...]
More Back-to-School Food Must-Buys!

Amasar Better Breakfasts with Breadfruit: Amasar's Fiber-Forward Innovation Helps Families Fuel the School DayPuerto Rico-based Amasar helps families simplify back-to-school mornings with naturally gluten-free, fiber-forward breakfast solutions. As families prepare for another school year, one nutritional challenge continues to concern health professionals: most Americans consume far less … [Read More...]
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Giveaways
Media Reviews
The Cat in the Hat * Get Ready For A Wild Ride Filled With Laughter, Colorful Surprises, And Plenty Of Mayhem

Meet the Cat in the Hat you don’t know! In the wonderfully whimsical tradition of Dr. Seuss, The Cat in the Hat comes to the big screen in his animated theatrical feature film debut, an all-new, epic adventure with an edge, where mischief, magic and mayhem reign supreme. Doing what he does best, the Cat—voiced by Bill Hader—spreads joy to kids in his hilarious, signature and singularly irreverent … [Read More...]
Books of the Week: November 6, 2026

Fun for kids of all ages who love football! Do you have a young football fan in your life? They may think they know the game... but do they really know all the greatest of the NFL? Help them become an expert with the newest addition to the widely successful middle-grade WHO GOT GAME? series, WHO GOT GAME? FOOTBALL by New York Times bestselling author and … [Read More...]
Klara and the Sun * Based On Kazuo Ishiguro’s Novel, Reimagines Science Fiction By Asking Whether Kindness Matters More Than Being Gifted

Based on the bestselling novel from Nobel Prize-winner Kazuo Ishiguro and written and directed by Academy-Award® winner Taika Waititi (Jojo Rabbit), Klara and the Sun introduces audiences to Klara (Jenna Ortega), an Artificial Friend who wants nothing more than to find the perfect home. When Klara meets Josie (Mia Tharia), each immediately senses a kindred spirit in the other. Josie has a fraught … [Read More...]
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Beauty and Fashion Corner

Summer Fragrance Must-Have!
My favorites are Chakra 4 and Chakra 7 Looking for the perfect Summer perfume collection? Auratherapy has you covered! Their motto is Spray. Breathe In. Transform. Everyone loves a chakra boost! Return to your center with their expertly crafted essential oil perfumes, designed to heal with intention. Each spray initiates a mood shift-from easing stress to inspiring focus-bringing your chakras … [Read More...]

Looking for Summer Skin Care? The Olea Essence Skincare Collection is a Must-Try!
Olea Essence, a skincare brand rooted in the power of unfiltered extra virgin olive oil and botanical ingredients, introduces its comprehensive line of natural skincare products designed to nourish, restore, and rejuvenate skin from head to toe. Featuring regenerative olives grown on Olea Essence Farms and a 100% olive oil–based skincare line where the regenerative olives are grown on the Olea … [Read More...]

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...]
Pet Corner

Bentley, Nov. 6 Pet of the Week
Bentley is a dream to drive! Her volunteer friends said that she’s super-mellow, knows “sit” and “stay” commands, and is easy to walk. During the Halloween parade at the shelter, Bentley watched all the doggies go by, and there was no reactivity whatsoever on her part. All her gears work great! Bentley came to our shelter with a leg problem but behaved beautifully and patiently when the vet took … [Read More...]

Dunson, Oct. 30 Pet of the week
Looking for his forever home! Here’s Dunson, a funny-face fellow who at only a year old has done almost everything a shelter dog can do! He’s had so much fun doing it, too, and so have all his volunteer pals at Long Beach Animal Care Services. Dunson spent two months boarding as a foster with one volunteer. He attended an event with another and did great both in the car and with the people … [Read More...]

Sunshine, Oct. 23 Pet of the Week
AWWWWWW! You are my Sunshine, my only Sunshine … Meet our only Sunshine, all ready for you to snap on her leash and go trick-or-treating! And her buddy volunteer Kristi says she’s a treat to walk! Sunshine checks in often with her walker, and even though she’s curious about everything around her, she never pulls on the leash. Bikes, passing humans—no reaction at all. But she loves to interact … [Read More...]

Jonas, Oct. 16 Pet of the Week
AWWWWWW! Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Just ask the Long Beach Animal Care Services (LBACS) vet team, their cat volunteers and anyone who meets Jonas. Jonas is a 9-year-old senior fellow who came to LBACS in June. He was, frankly, a mess—he had mange, conjunctivitis, a few missing teeth and entropion, an ocular condition in which the eyelid margin rolls inward, causing eyelashes and fur … [Read More...]











