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Archives for September 2024

Joshua Tree: HWY 62 Open Studio Art Tours Returns OCT 5-6, 12-13, 19-20

September 30, 2024 By Leave a Comment
Images courtesy of the artists, l-r:
Margeaux Walter, Reflections, 2023. RAP Artpostate, Atomic Dream Home, 2024. Rachel Rust and “The Folly,” 2019.

Artists Throughout Joshua Tree Region Open Their Studios

for Nature-Meets-Culture Experience;

“Art Tours After Dark” Live Music Component Added

This October, immerse yourself in the vibrant artistic community of the high desert surrounding Joshua Tree National Park as over 180 artists open their studios for the annual HWY 62 Open Studio Art Tours. Now in its 24th year, HWY 62 Open Studio Art Tours is Southern California’s largest open studio event, and it will take place over three weekends: October 5-6, 12-13, and 19-20. This year’s tour introduces “Art Tours After Dark,” featuring live music performances by local bands and musicians. The event is free and open to everyone.

Explore the unique fusion of nature and creativity on a self-guided tour through more than 130 studios nestled in the high-desert landscapes of the Joshua Tree region. Engage with local artists, discover diverse mediums and styles, and purchase art directly from the creators. The influx of artists to the Joshua Tree region promises a rich and varied artistic experience.

“HWY 62 Open Studio Art Tours is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of the incredible synergy between our natural environment and creative community. This year, we’re thrilled to enhance this experience with live music, deepening the connection between art and the rich cultural tapestry of the high desert.” said Art Tours Coordinator John Henson.

New This Year: Art Tours After Dark

As part of this year’s expanded offerings, “Art Tours After Dark” will feature live music from the thriving local music scene. Over 15 venues will host more than 70 showcases of bands and musicians throughout the three weekends. This allows visitors to enjoy art studios during the day and live music by night, with all events being free.

Companion Collective Show

A preview of the Tour’s art will be available at the new Hi-Desert Artists Center, hosting a Collective Show featuring works from over 100 participating artists. The exhibition runs from September 28 through October 27, 2024 with an artist reception on September 28 at 5 pm, providing an excellent opportunity to get a sneak peek at the art featured on the tour.

Plan Your Visit

Visitors are encouraged to plan their itinerary before arrival, given the size and scope of the event.  For information on the free event app, locations to pick up a tour catalog, or to request a mailed catalog, visit hwy62arttours.org.

Creating Community

HWY 62 Open Studio Art Tours is presented by the Morongo Basin Cultural Arts Council. The event is instrumental in fostering a sense of community among high desert artists, spotlighting their work, and celebrating their creativity in the region’s stunning natural setting. This event truly embodies the intersection of nature and culture.

Credit:  MBCAC.

Filed Under: SoCal City Kids News

Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group’s Magic of the Jack O’Lanterns Returns to Whittier Narrows Park This Fall

September 30, 2024 By Leave a Comment
Photo Credit: SoCal City Kids

 Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group, the world’s largest Halloween-themed entertainment company, today announced the return of their family-friendly event, Magic of the Jack O’Lanterns, to Los Angeles this fall with some enchanting additions for 2024. From September 20th through November 2nd, on select nights, Whittier Narrows Park will be transformed into an immersive pumpkin experience featuring a glowing array of thousands of hand-carved jack o’lanterns, mesmerizing light displays, and a variety of activities for all ages. 

Follow the illuminated trail and check out the newly added pumpkin scenes, inflatables, and bouncy pads. You’ll find magic around every corner! From pirate ships to dinosaurs and dragons, guests will also be entertained by the all-new pumpkin light show programmed to music across the entire event every 30 minutes. These pumpkin masterpieces bring to life various spooky and whimsical characters, from classic ghouls and goblins to beloved pop culture icons.

We had the opportunity to visit and we had a blast! I loved seeing all the pumpkins!

Great family fun!

Tickets start at $29.99 for adults at $24.99 (including fees) for kids on select nights. Visit www.magicofthejackolanterns.com to secure your tickets while supplies last. You can view the 2024 trailer here. 

“We are thrilled to introduce some exciting new elements to Magic of the Jack O’Lanterns this year and do something that’s never been done before at our event,” Said Greg Salyers, Vice President of Operations at Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group. “We know you’re going to love it!”

In addition to the breathtaking visual spectacle, Magic of the Jack O’Lanterns offers many activities for attendees of all ages. Visitors can Indulge in various delicious food and beverages on-site as they explore the glowing pumpkin wonderland.

2024 Add-Ons will include:

  • 3-D Jack O’Lantern Glasses: Experience the enchantment of “Magic of the Jack O’Lanterns” like never before with our 3-D glasses! These holographic lenses effortlessly turn light into magical pumpkin images, giving you an optical experience like never before!
  • S’mores Package:  New This Year! Indulge in the ultimate autumn experience with our exclusive S’mores Package at Magic of the Jack O’Lanterns! With this golden ticket in hand, you’re granted the delightful opportunity to craft your own mouth-watering s’mores surrounded by a twinkling pumpkin-lit night.
  • Preferred Parking: Sold online only. Located at Whittier Narrows Area D Parking Lot. Follow directions to Magic of the Jack O’ Lanterns, and our team will direct you to the correct lot. Be sure to have your parking ticket ready to be scanned as soon as you enter the park. Free parking is available nearby but will require a longer walk to the event.
And, you KNOW that I loved seeing Linus!

For additional information, including event specifics, ticket pricing, and more, please visit www.magicofthejackolanterns.com or connect with us on Instagram.

Filed Under: Archived Content

Fall Time Outside Fun Just Got Better with TOSY’s Flying Disc & Ring!

September 30, 2024 By Leave a Comment
So much fun!

TOSY’s Flying Disc and Flying Ring are the perfect additions to any outside fun! Easy for kids to catch and toss, making playtime even more exciting. Tough enough to handle all kinds of outdoor fun and splash-proof for water play. They even light up for fun in the evening or on cloudy days. Now, how cool is that?!

TOSY Flying Disc//$34.99 on Amazon 

The ultimate fusion of technology and outdoor fun! This patent-pending flying disc takes traditional disc play to new heights with its innovative design and advanced features. Engineered for optimal performance, the TOSY 360 boasts precision flight control and aerodynamic stability, allowing you to unleash exhilarating throws and impressive catches with ease. Its durable construction ensures long-lasting enjoyment, while the built-in LED lights illuminate the disc for exciting nighttime play. 

TOSY Flying Ring//$19.99 on Amazon  

Engineered for performance and durability, this waterproof flying ring is designed to withstand hours of play in any weather condition. Its lightweight construction and aerodynamic design ensure smooth and precise flights, allowing you to master impressive throws and catches with ease. Whether you’re enjoying a day at the beach, park, or backyard, the TOSY Flying Ring guarantees hours of entertainment for the whole family. Plus, with its built-in LED lights, the fun doesn’t have to end when the sun goes down.  Kids and even adults will have so much fun with these!

Self Disclosure: I received free samples to facilitate this post. Images were also provided.

Filed Under: Featured Products of the Week

The Queen Mary’s Dark Harbor Returns to Long Beach for 2024 Halloween Season

September 30, 2024 By Leave a Comment
Photo Credit: The Queen Mary

Named one of the Top 10 Most Haunted Places in America by Time Magazine, The Queen Mary has become synonymous with ghost sightings, scares, and paranormal activity in Southern California. From 2010-2019, the legendary Dark Harbor Halloween event captivated the residents of Long Beach and beyond until the COVID-19 pandemic and ship renovations caused the event to come to a pause. Now, for the first time in nearly four years, The Spirits Rise once again at The Queen Mary’s Dark Harbor!

“After a four-year hiatus, we’re thrilled to resurrect Dark Harbor and summon the spirits back to The Queen Mary for this coming Halloween season,” said Steve Caloca, Managing Director of the Queen Mary. “We’re grateful to be working with Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group, as well as the unwavering support of the City of Long Beach. This event holds a special place in the community’s heart, and has long been a cornerstone of Long Beach’s Halloween traditions.”

Dark Harbor is a massive Halloween festival that takes place on The Queen Mary and surrounding harbor offering hair-raising-fun entertainment and special ghoulish events throughout the frightful season. This year’s event will feature haunted mazes, live entertainment, themed bars and lounges, experiences on-board the ship, festive eats and treats and, of course, the return of well-known icons like the Captain, Ringmaster, and Scary Mary. 2024 attraction details will be released in the coming months and will include both fan favorites from the past, as well as many new surprises.

Southern California’s most haunted Halloween event opened on Friday, September 20th and will run select nights through Saturday, November 2nd.

The Queen Mary’s Dark Harbor is located at 1126 Queens Hwy., Long Beach, CA 90802. For more information, visit www.darkharborhalloween.com and follow along on Instagram and Facebook. All media requests can be sent to press@darkharborhalloween.com and all sponsorship inquiries can be directed to sponsorships@darkharborhalloween.com. 

Credit: The Queen Mary.

Filed Under: Archived Content

The Wild Robot * A Robot Stranded On An Island Makes Us Experience The Journey Of Connection, Acceptance, And Belonging

September 28, 2024 By Leave a Comment

Shipwrecked on a deserted island, a robot named Roz must learn to adapt to its new surroundings. Building relationships with the native animals, Roz soon develops a parental bond with an orphaned gosling. The Wild Robot is a 2024 American animated science fiction survival film based on the book series of the same name by Peter Brown, produced by DreamWorks Animation and distributed by Universal Pictures. The film was written and directed by Chris Sanders, produced by Jeff Hermann, and executive-produced by Sanders’ longtime collaborative partner Dean DeBlois. It stars Lupita Nyong’o as Roz, the title character, alongside an ensemble voice cast including Pedro Pascal, Kit Connor, Bill Nighy, Stephanie Hsu, Mark Hamill, Catherine O’Hara, Matt Berry, and Ving Rhames.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Emma O. comments, “The Wild Robot delivers family-friendly entertainment through a robot stranded on an island that makes us experience the journey of connection, acceptance, and belonging.  This animated film is heartwarming and laugh-out-loud fun.” Carter P. adds, “This movie is amazing. I really love that it explores the importance of self-discovery, the bridge between technology and nature and the question of what it means to be alive and connected to all living things.  The film has the most beautiful animation I have ever seen.” Avani M. adds, “This movie has so many wonderful themes in it. One is that you should be more than what you are programmed to be, whether that is by trying new things or taking a risk.” Selene W. wraps it up with, “The beloved award-winning children’s book, The Wild Robot, comes to life in a visually stunning feature film.  The Wild Robot movie highlights what it really means to be alive and connected to others in a family and in a greater community.” See their full reviews below.

The Wild Robot

Emma O., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

The Wild Robot delivers family-friendly entertainment through a robot stranded on an island that makes us experience the journey of connection, acceptance, and belonging.  This animated film is heartwarming and laugh-out-loud fun.

When a shipping container is lost at sea during a typhoon, Roz the Robot (Lupita Nyong’o), emerges as the sole survivor on an island with nothing but wildlife.  Programmed to complete a task, she has to learn to understand and interact with the animals there and she struggles with connecting and acceptance. Her journey takes a turn when she assists an orphaned goose, Brightbill, (Kit Connor) and gets help from a fox named Fink (Pedro Pascal).  Every new and confusing experience shifts Roz’s programming as she experiences things she was never programmed to imagine and finds a new way to live.

I enjoyed the humor of this film from DreamWorks Animation. The writing is great. The absurd, yet accurately dark humor, parental comments from Pinktail, a mother opossum, (Catherine O’Hara) are so relatable.  Her shocking statements make her character so enjoyable.  The animators illustrate the emotional reactions of island animals to perfection. Roz’s help initially causes more chaos than assistance.  When Roz sees a beaver building a damn, rather than help build it, her programming tells her it’s an obstacle and she destroys it.  The beaver’s response is priceless.  The confusion and disbelief when Roz provides a sticker communicating that the task is complete is hysterical.  These moments contribute to the humor and build on the character development of The Wild Robot as we watch her struggle to connect with the animals on the island.  Her adventures with Fink and Brightbill create bonding moments and we see how belonging, acceptance and connection can be influenced by kindness.

The Wild Robot provides an uplifting message of how belonging and acceptance come from one’s heart.  It successfully shows how kindness and caring are valued by all. Parents and viewers should be aware there are flashing and strobe lighting effects, loud noises and dark humor, which may be unsuitable for some viewers.

I give The Wild Robot 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. The Wild Robot releases in theatres on September 27,, 2024.

The Wild Robot
By Carter P., KIDS FIRST!  Film Critic, age 13

I love The Wild Robot.  It is beautifully animated, heartwarming and has powerful messages about stepping out of your comfort zone, being brave, kind, and showing compassion for others.

From DreamWorks Animation comes a new adaptation of a literary sensation, Peter Brown’s beloved, award-winning, #1 New York Times bestseller, The Wild Robot.  The epic adventure follows the journey of a robot named Roz, that is shipwrecked on an island and must learn to adapt to the harsh surroundings, gradually building relationships with the animals on the island and becoming the adoptive parent of an orphaned gosling. 

This movie is amazing. I really love that it explores the importance of self-discovery, the bridge between technology and nature and the question of what it means to be alive and connected to all living things.  The film has the most beautiful animation I have ever seen.  The colors of the island and forest look so realistic and I like the way the animals talk. I appreciate the scene when Roz is teaching the orphaned gosling how to fly.  The music goes so well with this particular scene and clearly emphasizes the idea of learning how to soar on your own and doing things you did not think were possible.  The Wild Robot stars Lupita Nyong’o as Roz the robot. It’s remarkable how she is able to change her voice to sound like a robot, but with feeling and so much emotion.  Pedro Pascal voices Fink the fox  and he is devious and incredibly loving.  Catherine O’ Hara voices an opossum, Pinktail and she mothers with a sense of humor.  Kit Connor voices BrightBill, the gosling who is adorable and so funny.

The Wild Robot is full of comedy, heart, bravery and incredible animation.  It is a heartwarming movie with powerful messages about trying new things, showing compassion for others and how a mother’s love is unconditional.

I give The Wild Robot 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults.  This film has something for everyone. It made me leave the theater with a smile on my face and wanting to see it again immediately.  You can watch The Wild Robot in theaters September 27, 2024.

The Wild Robot
By Selene W., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

The beloved award-winning children’s book, The Wild Robot, comes to life in a visually stunning feature film.  The Wild Robot movie highlights what it really means to be alive and connected to others in a family and in a greater community. This animated drama is sure to become a classic in the family genre and appeals to young and old alike. 

The Wild Robot is an animated drama that tells the tale of Roz (Lupita Nyong’o), a robot who finds itself stranded on a remote island inhabited only by animals as Roz searches to find a purpose. Roz is programmed to find a task, and without humans to direct it, activates “learning mode” so the animals or organisms in that environment can be understood. Along the journey of self-discovery, Roz becomes the adoptive parent of an orphaned gosling (Kit Connor). In accepting the task to take care of the gosling “unit,” Brightbill, Roz connects with both predators and prey in the island eco-system and, in turn, finds the home where she belongs.  Even though Roz doesn’t have the programming to be a mother, she learns that there is no manual or predetermined path to nurture another life.

DreamWorks Animation has done it again, adapting a wonderful book to the big screen. There are many fun and delightful characters which bring to life the humorous situations that develop in this story.  I really enjoyed the interaction between Roz and her new fox friend, Fink (Pedro Pascal).  The cleverness in their developing relationship is shown by both Lupita and Pedro, along with other talented cast members including opossum Pinktail (Catherine O’Hara), goose Longneck (Bill Nighy) and my favorite, the curmudgeon beaver Paddler (Matt Berry).  My favorite scenes and ensemble cast interaction is when Roz teaches Brightbill how to fly and when the diverse animals work together on the island.  The voice contributions of the entire cast match the quality of the animation in this production and that is praise indeed. The Wild Robot is written and directed by Chris Sanders and he really builds the emotion and characters as he masterfully creates this memorable film.  The film’s production is really beautiful – I would be remiss if I did not mention the Art Direction by Ritchie Sacilioc as well as everyone who contributed to the art, sound, music, animation and visual effects in this movie.

The film’s message is that kindness is a survival skill; and isn’t that a timely message.  Roz becomes more than what she was programmed to be; after all she was not meant to ever feel anything. The Wild Robot is an interesting exploration about the adaptation of technology in the natural world and how life evolves through adaptation.  Roz discovers love and a sense of community which helps Roz truly find her way home. 

I give The Wild Robot 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18 and, of course, adults will enjoy the message and storyline as well.  It is available in theaters September 27, 2024, so don’t miss this heart-warming tale!

The Wild Robot
By Avani M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 12

The Wild Robot is an awesome and touching movie that has many important messages. I love that it has many heartwarming moments that contrast all the happy and funny parts.

Roz, the wild robot (Lupita Nyong’o) finds herself washed ashore on a beach near a forest. She is kind to all the forest animals even when they dislike and hurt her. Once, when she is being chased, she finds a little egg which hatches into a gosling and assumes she is his mother. Roz names him Brightbill (Kit Connor) and takes care of him with the help of Fink (Pedro Pascal), a sneaky little fox who had tried to steal the egg. She teaches BrightBill how to eat, swim and fly in time for his winter migration. Just as Brightbill returns for the spring, Roz’s organization who made her come to take her back. All the animals help her fight against the organization to keep her in the forest.

The Wild Robot is such a marvelous movie with a profound storyline. All of the actors present so many different emotions. One actor that is especially great at portraying those feelings is Lupita Nyong’o as Roz. Her voice acting as a robot is remarkable and she made me feel like I was in Roz’s situation. She manages to show her complexities even as a robot, both in voice and in her animation expressions. Pedro Pascal is amazing at voicing Fink. He plays a tough character, but on the inside, he is dealing with sadness and loneliness. Kit Connor is especially funny as Brightbill. He voices him as a funny gosling who doesn’t know how to be like a regular gosling and speaks like a robot. Roz, Fink and Brightbill all become a family and this movie teaches us that a family unit doesn’t have to be made up of only those we are related to. With Roz and Fink supporting him, Brightbill is prepared for his life. The CGI and music are phenomenal – the CGI is beautiful and realistic while the music compliments what is happening in the film.

This movie has so many wonderful themes in it. One is that you should be more than what you are programmed to be, whether that is by trying new things or taking a risk. Roz has to take on the challenge of being a mother, which she is not programmed for, yet she still does it, even though she does not know how. Another major theme is that everyone has their own talent and we should put our differences aside so that we can solve problems in our community. We also learn to never give up from Brightbill’s example; the other geese say that he is too small to fly, but he proves them wrong by training day after day.

I give The Wild Robot 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters on September 27, 2024.

Filed Under: Media Reviews

Get Ready for Epic Family Fun: Monster Jam® Returns to Dominate Anaheim!

September 25, 2024 By Leave a Comment

Tickets on sale now to see the world’s most popular Monster Jam trucks and best drivers roar into Angel Stadium for three action-packed weekends on January 4-5, January 18-19 & February 15-16 to battle in the Stadium Championship Series.

Photo: Grave Digger/Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports

 Experience Monster Jam® live and become a fan for life with an ultimate day of family fun with three action-packed weekends at Angel Stadium on January 4 & 5, January 18 & 19 and February 15 &16, 2025. 

Get ready to cheer, scream, and be amazed as massive Monster Jam trucks and world champion drivers take over Anaheim for a weekend packed with high-flying action and jaw-dropping stunts.

This isn’t just any event—it’s As Big As It Getsä where 12,000-pound trucks stand on two wheels and fly through the air in competitions of speed and skill.  It’s all happening at Monster Jam, where every moment is unexpected, unscripted, and unforgettable.

Get Your Tickets Before They’re Gone!

Tickets are on sale now at Ticketmaster. Monster Jam Preferred Customers get the first chance to snag the best seats; fans can still sign up for free to grab an exclusive pre-sale code. The general public can purchase tickets starting Tuesday, September 17.

Feel the Thrill of Full-Throttle Fun

Get ready for non-stop excitement as Anaheim roars to life with gravity-defying stunts, heart-pounding races, and plenty of big air!  The world’s best drivers tear up on the dirt as they battle for the Event Championship in three competitions: Racing, Skills, and everyone’s favorite, Freestyle, where Monster Jam trucks defy the laws of physics and do the impossible.  Fans will be right in the middle of the action, helping to crown the Event Champion as they get to score the drivers in real time based on their skills, stunts, and saves.

Start the Fun Early at the Monster Jam Pit Party

The day of fun starts at the Monster Jam Pit Party on Saturday and Sunday, where families can get up close and personal with these massive trucks, snap a selfie, meet their favorite drivers, and collect autographs. It’s the perfect way to start a day of adrenaline-charged fun, packed with family-friendly activities.

Don’t Miss the Monster Jam Trackside Experience

Arrive early and get revved up with Monster Jam Trackside, happening about an hour before the event. It’s packed with driver interviews, pit crew sneak peeks, and epic giveaways that’ll get everyone pumped up before the action begins. Then, watch as the opening ceremonies set the stage for non-stop Monster Jam madness!

Meet the Superstars of Monster Jam!

These aren’t just any drivers—they’re world-class male and female athletes who have mastered controlling these 12,000-pound beasts. Whether pulling off insane backflips, nailing vertical 2-wheel tricks, or tearing up the track in all-out racing, these drivers are ready to wow fans with the most mind-blowing live motorsports action around.

January 4 & 5 and February 15 & 16 Event Lineups

January 18 & 19 Event Lineup

A group of people posing for a picture Description automatically generated

The competition is fierce as 12 top drivers battle it out for the Stadium Championship Series West title and a coveted spot in the Monster Jam World Finals® in Salt Lake City, Utah, on July 4th weekend. Fans can cheer on their favorites, like Adam Anderson in the legendary Grave Digger®; fierce and fearless Kayla Blood driving Sparkle Smashä, a six-ton unicorn with a bold attitude; Tristan England driving JCB DIGatronä which was designed in conjunction with JCB’s engineering team and inspired by JCB’s iconic construction equipment; plus more!   Plus the January 18 & 19 events will feature a completely different driver line-up as part of the Stadium Championship Series East including Tyler Menninga in the legendary Grave Digger®; Armando Castro, who makes his Stadium Championship debut behind the wheel of El Toro Loco®; Monster Jam World Finals High Jump champion Cynthia Gauthier in Lucas Stabilizerä; and more!

WHEN:           

Saturday, January 4, 2025

  • Event Time – 4:30 PM
  • Pit Party open from 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM (Event Ticket & Pit Party Pass required for entry)

Sunday, January 5, 2025

  • Event Time – 2:30 PM
  • Pit Party open from 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM (Event Ticket & Pit Party Pass required for entry)

Saturday, January 18, 2025

  • Event Time – 6:30 PM
  • Pit Party open from 2:30 PM – 5:30PM (Event Ticket & Pit Party Pass required for entry)

Sunday, January 19, 2025

  • Event Time – 2:30 PM
  • Pit Party open from 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM (Event Ticket & Pit Party Pass required for entry)

Saturday, February 15, 2025

  • Event Time – 6:30 PM
  • Pit Party open from 2:30 PM – 5:30 PM (Event Ticket & Pit Party Pass required for entry)

Sunday, February 16, 2025

  • Event Time – 2:30 PM
  • Pit Party open from 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM (Event Ticket & Pit Party Pass required for entry)

WHERE:           Angel Stadium – 2000 E Gene Autry Way, Anaheim, CA 92806

TICKETS:          Gravity-defying action, down-to-earth prices!

Tickets and Pit Party Passes are now available for purchase online at Ticketmaster.

*Ticket prices subject to change – additional venue/ticketing fees may apply

TRUCK/DRIVER LINEUP (Jan 4-5 & Feb 15-16):

Grave Digger® driven by Adam Anderson; Sparkle Smashä driven by Kayla Blood; JCB DIGatronä driven by Tristan England; Son-uva Digger® driven by Ryan Anderson; Megalodon® driven by Todd LeDuc; El Toro Loco®driven by Jamey Garner; TBA driven by Bryce Kenny; Wild Sidedriven by Zack Garner; Black Pearldriven by Cole Venard; Jester driven by Matt Pagliarulo; Kraken driven by Nick Pagliarulo; and Excaliber driven by Michael Pagliarulo

**Truck and driver line-up subject to change

TRUCK/DRIVER LINEUP (Jan 18-19):  Grave Digger® driven by Tyler Menninga; Lucas Stabilizerä driven by Cynthia Gauthier; El Toro Loco®driven by Armando Castro; Zombie® driven by Bari Musawwir; ThunderROARusä driven by Colt Stephens; TBA driven by Camden Murphy; Megalodon® driven by Kevin Crocker; Avenger driven by Jim Koehler; Monster Mutt® driven by Chris Koehler; Axedriven by Joe Foley; Vendetta driven by Mike Christensen; and Jurassic Attack driven by Dalton Widner

**Truck and driver line-up subject to change

Credit: Feld Motor Sports.

Filed Under: SoCal City Kids News

DISNEY ON ICE presents MAGIC IN THE STARS – Coming this December to Greater LA / TICKETS ON SALE NOW

September 25, 2024 By Leave a Comment
Credit: Feld Entertainment

Chart a course through the night sky to Disney On Ice presents Magic in the Stars where every story begins with a wish!  This all-new production brings the brightest Disney stars to life through cutting-edge figure skating, high-flying acrobatics, unexpected stunts, innovative lighting, thrilling special effects, eye-catching costumes, and stunning set designs.  Experience the dynamic moments that take place on the ice and in the air when Disney On Ice presents Magic in the Stars makes its SoCal debut for four weeks playing Anaheim, Los Angeles, Ontario and Long Beach from December 12, 2024 thru January 5, 2025.

Join Disney On Ice presents Magic in the Stars for a magical journey with Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Donald, and Daisy through timeless tales and today’s favorites.  The adventure begins when the North Star shines brightly and descends upon Jiminy Cricket as he welcomes and reminds the audience that the most fantastic, magical things can happen, and it all starts with a wish.

Journey to Rosas, the kingdom of wishes, to meet optimistic and sharp-witted Asha from the newest Walt Disney Animated Studios’ musical adventure Wish.  She makes an impassioned plea to the stars, which is answered by a cosmic force, a little ball of boundless energy named Star.  Together they face the most formidable of foes to save her community and prove that when the will of one courageous human connects with the magic of the stars, wonderous things can happen.  Asha and her friend Star will dazzle audiences as they skate to “This Wish,” performed by Academy Award®- winning actress Ariana DeBose.

Watch as Raya from Raya and the Last Dragon debuts live on ice and ascends into the air, lifting the show to higher heights as the strong warrior performs an aerial acro-pole routine.

For the first time on ice, escape “Into the Unknown” with Elsa and Anna from Frozen 2, hit the road with Disney and Pixar’s Lightning McQueen and Tow Mater as they cruise on the ice to “Life Is A Highway,” and reconnect with Toy Story’s Buzz Lightyear, Woody, Jessie, Rex, and Hamm.  Travel to the mountains of Colombia where the Madrigal family lives, unlock the magic in the family’s casita, and discover why “We Don’t Talk About Bruno.”  Set sail with Moana on her canoe into the open ocean, to witness her encourage Te Kā to “Know Who You Are” and transform into Te Fiti.

Pursue your dreams with Tiana, from The Princess and the Frog, as she strives to make her wish of opening a restaurant come true.  Discover the power of three wishes with Aladdin when he finds a magic lamp in the Cave of Wonders.  Reminisce with Cinderella, Snow White, Belle, and Rapunzel as they remind us to never stop wishing and dreaming.

In the end, audiences will learn that everyone has dreams they want to come true, but the brightest light shines inside of YOU!  Every one of you is a STAR! So, shine bright and let your stories light up the night sky!

A N A H E I M

WHEN:            Thursday, December 12          7:00 PM

Friday, December 13   7:00 PM

Saturday, December 14          11:00 AM, 3:00 PM & 6:30 PM

Sunday, December 15             11:00 AM, 3:00 PM & 6:30 PM

Monday, December 16           7:00 PM

WHERE:           Honda Center – 2695 E. Katella Ave. Anaheim, CA 92806

TICKETS:          Family friendly ticket pricing available – tickets can be purchased online at Ticketmaster.com or in-person at the venue box office.

*Ticket pricing is subject to change based on market demand.

L O S   A N G E L E S

WHEN:            Thursday, December 19          7:00 PM

                        Friday, December 20               7:00 PM

Saturday, December 21          11:00 AM, 3:00 PM & 6:30 PM

Sunday, December 22             11:00 AM, 3:00 PM & 6:30 PM

WHERE:           Crypto.com Arena – 1111 S. Figueroa St. Los Angeles, CA 90015

TICKETS:          Family friendly ticket pricing available – tickets can be purchased online at AXS.com

or in-person at the venue box office.

*Ticket pricing is subject to change based on market demand.

O N T A R I O

WHEN:            Thursday, December 26          7:00 PM

Friday, December 27               2:30 PM & 6:30 PM

Saturday, December 28          11:00 AM, 3:00 PM & 6:30 PM

Sunday, December 29             11:00 AM, 3:00 PM & 6:30 PM

Monday, December 30           6:30 PM

WHERE:           Toyota Arena – 4000 Ontario Center Parkway, Ontario, CA 91764

TICKETS:          Family friendly ticket pricing available – tickets can be purchased online at Ticketmaster.com or in-person at the venue box office.

*Ticket pricing is subject to change based on market demand.

L O N G   B E A C H

WHEN:            Thursday, January 2                7:00 PM

Friday, January 3                     7:00 PM

Saturday, January 4                 11:00 AM, 3:00 PM & 6:30 PM

Sunday, January 5                   11:00 AM, 3:00 PM & 6:30 PM

WHERE:           Long Beach Arena – 300 E. Ocean Blvd. Long Beach, CA 90802

TICKETS:          Family friendly ticket pricing available – tickets can be purchased online at Ticketmaster.com or in-person at the venue box office.

*Ticket pricing is subject to change based on market demand.

“Share the Magic with Elsa and Mirabel” Character Experience

Glide and dance your way into the worlds of Frozen & Encanto with music and dancing alongside Elsa and Mirabel, celebrating the amazing gifts that make each of us unique.  Enhance your Disney On Ice show ticket with a pre-show Character Experience that includes games, storytelling, crafting and interactive time with Elsa and Mirabel.  Bring your personal device for photo opportunities.

NOTE:  Each guest (ages 2 and up) must have both a Character Experience ticket and a Disney On Ice show ticket to attend; children must be accompanied by an adult.

For specific SoCal local show information please visit:

https://www.disneyonice.com/magic-in-the-stars/anaheim-ca-honda-center

https://www.disneyonice.com/magic-in-the-stars/los-angeles-ca-cryptocom-arena

https://www.disneyonice.com/magic-in-the-stars/ontario-ca-toyota-arena

https://www.disneyonice.com/magic-in-the-stars/long-beach-ca-long-beach-arena

Follow Disney On Ice social media channels: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and TikTok   

Subscribe to the Disney On Ice YouTube Channel at www.youtube.com/DisneyOnIce

Credit: Feld Entertainment.

Filed Under: SoCal City Kids News

My First Pac Pac – plush adjustable backpack that grows with your child

September 25, 2024 By Leave a Comment
By  Miniware

Your little one can bring a friend to school every day with My First Pac Pac! This adorable backpack is ready to make learning fun. Padded compartments have room for lots of stuff like art supplies, clothes, and snacks! There’s even an insulated cubby to keep foods fresh.  My First Pac Pac, is an adjustable backpack that can be made taller or smaller for children 3+.

I received one and I love how there is so much room and the insulated cubby is the best!

They can be found at https://miniware.com/collections/childrens-backpacks-bags

Self Disclosure: I received a free sample to facilitate this back- to- school featured post. Images were also provided.

Filed Under: Featured Products of the Week
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