You are here: Home / 2025 / Archives for December 2025

Archives for December 2025

Celebrate the Holiday Season at OC Parks’ Heritage Hill Historical Park

December 3, 2025 By Leave a Comment
Candlelight Walk at Heritage Hill Historical Park 2023/Credit: Heritage Hill Historical Park

Get in the holiday spirit at OC Parks’ Heritage Hill Historical Park this December with two weekends of family-friendly fun at Candlelight Walk and Holiday Lights. 

Celebrate the joy of the season at the 39th annual Candlelight Walk Dec. 5-7, from 5 to 9 p.m. and stroll through the decorated historical grounds during special park hours. Enjoy live musical performances from carolers and brass band musicians, holiday-themed crafts for kids, enchanting puppet show productions of “The Wizard of Oz,” and a visit with Santa Claus! Light refreshments will be available for cash purchase.

The celebration continues with Holiday Lights Dec. 12-14, from 5 to 9 p.m. Explore the historical buildings decked out with dazzling light displays and seasonal décor. Snap festive pictures at holiday-themed photo opportunities throughout the park. Pets are welcome to join the festivities outdoors on leashes no longer than 6 feet. Please note that additional entertainment and refreshments will not be available during Holiday Lights.

“We’re excited to celebrate the holiday season once again with the return of Candlelight Walk and Holiday Lights at Heritage Hill Historical Park,” said Supervisor Donald P. Wagner, Orange County Board of Supervisors. “These events offer families a wonderful opportunity to enjoy festive traditions while exploring one of Orange County’s treasured historic landmarks.”

Candlelight Walk and Holiday Lights at Heritage Hill Historical Park are free to attend with free parking. Inclement weather may cancel the events.

Heritage Hill Historical Park

25151 Serrano Road, Lake Forest, CA 92630

ocparks.com/heritagehill

(949) 923-2230 

39th Annual Candlelight Walk

Date: December 5, 6 and 7

Time: 5 – 9 p.m.

Cost & Parking: Free

Holiday Lights

Date: December 12, 13 and 14

Time: 5 – 9 p.m.

Cost & Parking: Free

Credit: OC Parks.

Filed Under: Featured Events

The Christmas on Euclid Experience Returns to Ontario with Lights, Community Events and Holiday Cheer

December 3, 2025 By Leave a Comment
Credit: GOCAL

Southern California’s most nostalgic holiday tradition is back! Presented by Greater Ontario California (GOCAL), The Christmas on Euclid Experience returns to Ontario this December, bringing lights, music and festive fun all month long.

Highlights include: 
Holiday Light Parade & Drone Show | Saturday, December 6 from 6:30 to 9 p.m.
Kick off the season as illuminated floats travel down Euclid Avenue, followed by a holiday drone show and the annual tree lighting ceremony at Ontario Town Square. Enjoy photos with Santa, cookie decorating and writing letters to Santa after the show.

Craft Fair & Festival | Saturday, December 13 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
A full day of small-town charm with horse drawn carriage rides, ice skating, live entertainment, delicious bites and shopping from local artisans at Ontario Town Square.

Ontario 5K Reindeer Run | Saturday, December 13 from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m.
The festive run begins and ends in downtown Ontario. Proceeds benefit local student scholarship programs. Registration is available at ontario5krun.com

Community Sing-A-Long | Saturday, December 20 at 6 p.m.
Gather with friends, family and neighbors for a joyful evening of caroling and holiday spirit at Ontario Town Square.

Menorah Procession | Sunday, December 21 at 6:30 p.m.
Celebrate the beginning of Hanukkah with a traditional menorah lighting and procession along Euclid Avenue.

Explore the 12 Nativity Scenes displayed along Euclid Avenue’s tree-lined median from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Day, a holiday display dating back to 1958. Find the full schedule at gocalevents.org/p/christmas-on-euclid/schedule. 

image.jpeg

Filed Under: Featured Events

 Los Angeles Children’s Chorus Rings in the Holidays with Annual Winter Concert, Dec 6-7, and Appearances with LA Opera, Pasadena Symphony

December 3, 2025 By Leave a Comment
Los Angeles Children’s Chorus PHOTO CREDIT: Ricardo Mendoza

Illustrating that children and Christmas go together like, well, Santa and Rudolph, the holidays will be a particularly busy time for the in-demand Grammy Award-winning Los Angeles Children’s Chorus (LACC), considered one of the world’s leading children’s choirs, with three significant engagements for the chorus, one self-produced and the others with LA Opera and Pasadena Symphony.

LA Children’s Chorus’ holiday offerings are anchored by its annual Winter Concert, featuring back-to-back performances at two different locations, Saturday, December 6, 3 pm, at First United Methodist Church in Pasadena, and Sunday, December 7, 2025, 7 pm, at Pasadena Presbyterian Church.Some 400 choristers from six of LACC’s ensembles will be spotlighted on two different programs featuring an array of carols, seasonal songs, and winter-themed works. The December 6 program includes LACC’s Concert Choir and Chamber Singers, both led by Artistic Director Fernando Malvar-Ruiz; the Intermediate Choir, under the direction of Associate Artistic Director Fred Meads; and the Young Men’s Ensemble, conducted by Eric Lifland. The Concert Choir also appears at the December 7 concert, along with the Apprentice Choir, led by Meads, and the Chorale, LACC’s SATB ensemble, directed by Malvar-Ruiz.
 

Additionally, 16 LACC choristers perform in LA Opera’s timeless production of Puccini’s beloved opera La Bohème, directed by Brenna Corner and led by Resident Conductor Lina González-Granados, with six performances, November 22 and 30, and December 4, 6, 10, and 14, at Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. The production stars Janai Brugger (Mimi), Oreste Cosimo (Rodolfo), Erica Petrocelli (Musetta), and Gihoon Kim (Marcello).

To cap the season, LACC joins Pasadena Symphony as a special guest for three performances of the orchestra’s popular Holiday Candlelight concert on December 12, 7 pm, and December 13, 4 pm and 7 pm, at All Saints Church in Pasadena. Larry Blank conducts the festive program, headlined by vocalist Sarah Uriarte Berry, which also features the Donald Brinegar Singers, JPL Chorus, and LA Bronze Handbell Ensemble. Favorites such as The Christmas Song, Sleigh Ride, Hallelujah! and more – all performed by candlelight – set a joyous holiday mood.

Tickets to LACC’s Winter Concert ($29) are on sale now. For tickets and information on LACC’s holiday engagements, visit www.lachildrenschorus.org or call (626) 793-4231. First United Methodist Church is located at 500 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91101. Pasadena Presbyterian Church is located at 585 East Colorado Blvd., Pasadena, CA 91101.

About the Artists
GRAMMY Award-winning Los Angeles Children’s Chorus (LACC), one of the world’s preeminent youth choruses, has been lauded as “hauntingly beautiful” (Los Angeles Times), “the best children’s chorus I have ever heard” (Esa-Pekka Salonen), and “one of the true artistic gems of Los Angeles” (Gustavo Dudamel). Led by Artistic Director Fernando Malvar-Ruiz, LACC annually appears in more than 50 public performances, including in its own self-produced concerts and in collaborations with leading organizations such as Los Angeles Opera, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Los Angeles Master Chorale, and Pasadena Symphony and POPS. The Chorus annually serves over 500 young people ages 6-18 from 40+ communities across Southern California through its seven choirs, and First Experiences in Singing and Next Experiences in Singing classes. LACC is featured in alumna Billie Eilish’s 2021 cinematic concert experience Happier Than Ever: A Love Letter To Los Angeles on Disney+, and has appeared on John Williams’ 2017 recording, John Williams & Steven Spielberg: The Ultimate Collection, and the Los Angeles Master Chorale’s critically-acclaimed Decca recording, A Good Understanding. The subject of four documentaries by Academy Award®-winning filmmaker Freida Mock, LACC is featured in the Academy Award®-nominated Sing!, about a year in the life of the choir. LACC has performed with John Mayer on NBC’s “The Tonight Show” and been featured on PBS’s “Great Performances,” BBC Radio, and PRI’s nationally-syndicated show “From the Top.” Winner of the 2022 GRAMMY Award for Best Choral Performance for its performance on the LA Philharmonic’s 2021 album, Mahler Symphony No. 8, and recipient of Chorus America’s Margaret Hillis Award for Choral Excellence, LACC frequently serves as a cultural ambassador on tours that have taken the Chorus to 22+ countries on 6 continents. LACC was founded in 1986 by Rebecca Thompson and led from 1995-2018 by Artistic Director Emerita Anne Tomlinson. For more information, please visit www.lachildrenschorus.org.

WHAT:
Los Angeles Children’s Chorus’ Winter Concert

WHO:
Los Angeles Children’s Chorus
Fernando Malvar-Ruiz, Conductor/Concert Choir/Chamber Singers/Chorale
Fred Meads, Conductor/Intermediate Choir
Eric Lifland, Conductor/Young Men’s Ensemble/Apprentice Choir

WHEN/WHERE:
Saturday, December 6, 2025, 3:00 pm
First United Methodist Church, 500 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91101
(Features: Intermediate Choir, Concert Choir, Chamber Singers, and Young Men’s Ensemble)


Sunday, December 7, 2025, 7:00 pm
Pasadena Presbyterian Church, 585 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena, CA 91101
(Features: Apprentice Choir, Concert Choir, and Chorale) 
 

TICKETS/INFORMATION:
$29
(626) 793-4231          
www.lachildrenschorus.org

Filed Under: Uncategorized

Casa Romantica is Set to Have Everyone Rockin’ Around the Casa This Holiday Season

December 2, 2025 By Leave a Comment

December Programming Includes NEW Teddy Bear Christmas Tea, Christmas Nights at the Casa, Family Sunday: Christmas Open House, and More.

The holiday season is almost here, and Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens is ready to have everyone rockin’ around the Casa this December with a festive lineup of seasonal events and community favorites. From the debut of a brand-new Teddy Bear Christmas Tea to the return of The Nutcracker and Christmas Nights at the Casa, the seaside cultural center is the perfect place to make merry memories this holiday season.

“The holidays are such a special time at Casa Romantica,” said Kylie Travis, Co-Executive Director. “We love seeing families, friends, and the community come together to celebrate through art, music, and tradition. Whether it’s your first visit or a long-standing holiday tradition, there’s truly something magical for everyone to enjoy.”

Among this year’s highlights is the Teddy Bear Christmas Tea on Saturday, December 13 at 2 p.m., a heartwarming new event designed for children and their favorite grown-ups. Guests will enjoy dainty tea sandwiches, sweet seasonal treats, and festive beverages served on elegant tiered trays surrounded by whimsical teddy bear centerpieces. The afternoon features live holiday music by Lark Knowles and a visit from Mrs. Claus herself, who will delight guests with a reading of The Night Before Christmas. 

Families can experience the magic of The Nutcracker by Ballet Academy & Movement on December 4 and 5 at 7 p.m., tailored specifically to the intimate setting of Casa Romantica’s newly reopened Main Salon. On Sunday, December 7 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Family Sunday: Christmas Open House offers free admission for families to explore Casa Romantica’s decorated spaces, write letters to Santa, and enjoy a morning of holiday fun along the coast.

The festivities continue with Casa Romantica’s signature celebration, Christmas Nights at the Casa, taking place December 12, 13, 19, and 20 from 5 to 7 p.m. Families can stroll through the illuminated gardens, sip hot cocoa or coffee from High Tide Coffee, and make s’mores under the stars. Each evening will feature live performances, including the South County Community Handbell Choir (Dec. 12), young artists from Community Outreach Alliance (Dec. 13 & 19), and the OC Sound Chorus (Dec. 20). The Casa Romantica Gift Shop will also showcase one-of-a-kind gifts and Casa-exclusive candles, adding a perfect touch of local artistry to the holiday season.

The month concludes with the Coffee Concert with High Tide Coffee on Friday, December 19 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., featuring live music by Corey Angeli. It’s a cozy morning of ocean views, warm beverages, and seasonal melodies offering a peaceful way to close out the year on a high note.

From tea parties and ballet to s’mores and song, Casa Romantica’s December lineup offers something for everyone. From concerts and cultural celebrations to garden workshops and fall festivities, Casa Romantica’s holiday programming offers a rich blend of creativity, community, and coastal charm. For a complete list of events or to purchase tickets, visit CasaRomantica.org and follow @CasaRomanticaSC on social media.

Credit:  Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens.

Filed Under: SoCal City Kids News

Make it Merry: The Holidays Arrive at Lido Marina Village

December 2, 2025 By Leave a Comment

 

A Full Season of Festive Cheer Featuring Santa’s Arrival Celebration on December 6 and the Vintage Holiday Market on December 20, 2025

Santa arrives at Lido Marina Village by sea during Santa’s Arrival Celebration. Image courtesy of Lido Marina Village.

Celebrate the holiday season at Lido Marina Village as Newport Beach’s iconic open-air shopping, dining and lifestyle destination transforms into an enchanting coastal wonderland. Enjoy a full calendar of family-friendly programming throughout the month, including the highly anticipated Santa’s Arrival Celebration at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, December 6, and the charming Vintage Holiday Market from 12-5 p.m. on Saturday, December 20. Guests are invited to explore the village and take in the festive atmosphere with live music, strolling performers, gourmet hot chocolate, artisan markets, Santa visits and more throughout December.

Santa’s Arrival Celebration (December 6) 

Kick off the season in true Southern California style as Santa arrives at Lido Marina Village by sea in an Electric Boat. Festivities throughout the day include face painting, balloon twisting, appearances by the Little Drummer Boy and Winter Ballerina, gourmet hot chocolate from the Jolly Sheep, a performance by the Holly Belles, cookie decorating with the Picnic Collective, a strolling holiday brass quartet and more surprises.

Families are invited to capture photos, meet Santa and enjoy additional holiday activations hosted by Lido’s shops and restaurants.

Vintage Holiday Market (December 20) 

Discover the Vintage Holiday Market on the Lido Deck from 12-5 p.m. on December 20, featuring a curated collection of unique, one-of-a-kind vintage items perfect for holiday gifting. Enjoy live music, gourmet hot chocolate and visits from Santa throughout the day.

Season-Long Holiday Highlights 

Lido Marina Village will be filled with holiday cheer all season. Santa will make appearances from November 29 through December 21, greeting guests on select Thursdays and Fridays from 4–8 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays from 12–4 p.m. (Full schedule available online; timing may vary during Santa’s workshop breaks).

On Saturday, December 13, the Lido Deck hosts the Female Maker Market, featuring more than 30 female artists and artisans, live entertainment and visits from Santa.

Special musical performances further elevate the festive ambiance, including The Holly Belles on December 6, lively a cappella sets from Jingle 5 on December 14 and 20, and a strolling brass ensemble on select dates.

Guests can also enjoy live holiday music every Thursday, Saturday and Sunday from 12–3 p.m. throughout the month.

In-Store Holiday Events

Lido Marina Village’s shops and restaurants will host additional seasonal experiences, including trunk shows, workshops, tastings, holiday promotions and more. A full listing of holiday happenings at Lido can be found at lidomarinavillage.com/events. 

Credit:  Lido Marina Village

Website: lidomarinavillage.com

Filed Under: Featured Events

Family Programs at Getty

December 2, 2025 By Leave a Comment

GETTY VILLA:

The Percy Jackson Quest

Dec 6, 7,13, and 14, 2025

Drop-in 10:30am–3pm

Getty Villa

Calling all fans of Percy Jackson! To celebrate Season 2 of Percy Jackson and the Olympians, all demigods (and ancient world enthusiasts) are invited to join a quest through the galleries and gardens of the Getty Villa Museum. Test your knowledge of Greek mythology and the world of Percy Jackson—complete the quest to receive a prize!

Making Scents of the Ancient World: Pylos Perfume Workshop

Dec 13, 2025 and Jan 10, 2026

Drop-in 11am-3pm

Getty Villa

In this free, drop-in, perfume-making workshop, you can create your own perfume inspired by an ancient recipe from Pylos, in southern Greece. Build custom perfumes by exploring the spices and oils favored by the Mycenaeans, some of which are still in use today, and discover how these materials were applied in antiquity.

GETTY CENTER: 

Getty Drawing Days

Dec 7, 2025 and Jan 25, 2026

Drop-in 11am–3pm

Getty Center

Do you like to draw? Join us for this fun, drop-in drawing event where participants of all ages and skill levels discover the joy of drawing from live, costumed models. Guest artists offer guidance and materials are provided—just bring your curiosity and creativity.

Artist-at-Work: Figure Drawing

Dec 7, 2025 and Jan 25, 2026

Drop-in 11:30am, 12:30pm, 1:30pm, 2:30pm

Getty Center

Join artist Peter Zokosky for live drawing demonstrations. Meet the artist, ask questions, and discover different materials and techniques for drawing people.

Credit: Getty.

Filed Under: Featured Events

Cerritos Towne Center Announces Annual Holiday Spectacular, 12.7

December 2, 2025 By Leave a Comment
Photo of previous Holiday Spectacular at Cerritos Towne Center, provided courtesy of Cerritos Towne Center.

WHAT: 

Cerritos Towne Center is transforming into a winter wonderland for its annual Holiday Spectacular. Families are invited to spend an afternoon with Santa, make decorative crafts, take photos by the Christmas tree and play winter-themed games. There will also be face painting and balloon twisting with a special holiday twist! 

WHEN:
Sunday, December 7 from 12 p.m. – 2 p.m.

WHERE:

Cerritos Towne Center

12731 Towne Center Dr, Cerritos, CA 90703

RSVP:

No RSVP required. The event is free and open to the public.

For more information, visit cerritostc.com.

Credit: Cerritos Towne Center.

Filed Under: Featured Events

NexGenLA Celebration: Family Fun with Kahlo, Lichtenstein, Pissarro, and more! December 7, 2025

December 2, 2025 By Leave a Comment
Andell Family Sundays Making Ikebana Family Activity photos by Monica Orozco LACMA

On December 7, 2025, LACMA will host a free, fun-filled day for NexGenLA members and their families! Celebrate iconic artworks from LACMA’s permanent collection on view in the Modern Art Galleries. Enjoy a variety of inspired activities and experiences across the museum campus such as hands-on art workshops, dynamic dance sessions, storytime read-alouds, face painting, and family-friendly tours.

Step into a world of imagination, creativity, and color—there’s something for everyone, and all outdoor activities are free to attend.

A full schedule can be found here: https://www.lacma.org/event/nexgenla-celebration 

Sunday, Dec 7
10 am–2 pm
WHERELos Angeles County Museum of Art 5905 Wilshire Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90036
TICKETSFREE with museum admission
All outdoor activities are free to attend without museum admission
https://www.lacma.org/event/nexgenla-celebration
Filed Under: Featured Events
Next Page »