Rosie, a four-year-old Magellanic penguin, is making her debut at the Aquarium of the Pacific. The public can now see Rosie swim and interact with her fellow penguins in the June Keyes Penguin Habitat.

Each penguin in the Aquarium’s habitat has a distinct personality, and Rosie is quiet, curious, and playful. She is being fed restaurant-quality food by the Aquarium’s animal care staff, including capelin, squid, and her favorite so far: herring. “We are so excited to have Rosie join our Magellanic penguin colony. She seems like she will be a bright addition to the group with her curious and social nature. We are looking forward to getting to know her as she settles in and begins to explore our habitat,” said Ashley Loper, Aquarium of the Pacific aviculturist II. Rosie came from an Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accredited facility. The Aquarium of the Pacific participates in the AZA Species Survival Program (SSP) for Magellanic penguins.

Magellanic penguins are a medium-sized, temperate species native to the coasts of Argentina and Chile in South America. The public is also welcome to view Rosie and the rest of the penguins on the Aquarium’s live webcam. She can be spotted in her hot pink, orange, and yellow band around her flipper. The Penguin Cam is brought to us courtesy of explore.org, the philanthropic media organization and division of the Annenberg Foundation.

AQUARIUM: The nonprofit Aquarium of the Pacific is a community gathering place dedicated to connecting people to and conserving nature. The Aquarium’s vision is to foster an inclusive community that works together to create our sustainable future. Home to more than 12,000 animals, Aquarium exhibits include Our Living Coastline, the Southern California Gallery, Pacific Visions, and Shark Lagoon. Beyond its animal exhibits, the Aquarium offers educational programs for people of all ages, including First Wednesdays featuring a variety of guest speakers. The Aquarium offers memberships with unlimited FREE admission for twelve months and other special benefits. To make a donation to help support the Aquarium, please visit the donation webpage. To visit, reservations are required for everyone and can be made at aquariumofpacific.org or by calling (562) 590-3100.

Credit: Aquarium of the Pacific.

The most wonderful time of the year gets even brighter with the triumphant return of Magic of Lights presented by PNC Bank.  Produced by Family Entertainment Holdings, LLC, Magic of Lights will make its highly anticipated return to Empire Polo Club for the fourth consecutive year. Shining under the stars of the Coachella Valley, The Empire Polo Club will once again be transformed into a breathtaking winter wonderland featuring a spectacular drive-through light display and enchanting Holiday Village Powered by IID (Imperial Irrigation District). This beloved holiday tradition opens November 18 and runs through December 31.

Special “start of the season” pricing for a special sneak peek of the magic for a limited time of $24.99 to valid November 10-14, 2025. Don’t miss your chance to see the lights before the season officially opens!  Regular season price (November 15-December 31) is $35.99. Continue the magic throughout the holiday season with a season pass for only $79.99 (restrictions apply).

Throughout the engagement, guests can enjoy $5 off weekday discounts at the box office with valid ID. Discount nights include Military Mondays and First Responders & Healthcare Workers Wednesdays, presented by KESQ News Channel Three. Tuesdays are Double Drive-Thru Nights. Additional promotional nights will be announced at MagicOfLights.com/CoachellaValley.

Magic of Lights 2025 will debut the brand-new 750-foot Palm Tree Tunnel, making it one of the longest in California, plus more of your holiday favorites, all constructed with millions of individual LED lights to create a memorable holiday experience for the entire family.

“Magic of Lights has become a beloved holiday tradition for families right here in the Coachella Valley,” said Ken Hudgens, CEO of Family Entertainment Live. “We’re proud to return to the Empire Polo Club and continue spreading the joy, wonder, and togetherness that make this season so special in our community.”

“We’re thrilled to once again host the Coachella Valley’s beloved holiday tradition, Magic of Lights,” said Mark Girton, VP/GM of Empire Polo Club/Empire Grand Oasis. “This year, guests can look forward an array of dazzling new displays and festive activities in the Holiday Village Powered by IID, creating memorable experiences for the entire family. Each holiday season, Magic of Lights brings joy and wonder to the community, and we’re proud to be part of a tradition that has truly become a must-see (and do!)  on everyone’s holiday list.”

Guests can experience the wonder of Magic of Lights’ most treasured holiday scenes from the warmth and comfort of your vehicle, including the whimsical Prehistoric Christmas, enchanting Winter Wonderland, the classic 12 Days of Christmas, delightful Toyland, playful festive Elves, and the magnificent Reindeer Road. Journey through the awe-inspiring 200-foot Enchanting Tunnel of Lights alongside additional captivating illuminated tunnels that will transport you into a world of holiday splendor.

“PNC is thrilled to once again serve as presenting sponsor for one of the most magical events of the holiday season,” said Jarrod Ingle, PNC regional president for Orange County & Inland Empire. “This celebration is all about bringing together families, friends, and neighbors to share in the joy of community and festive traditions. We can’t wait to experience the incredible displays and memories that await us this year.”

Other dazzling displays include the 32-foot-tall, animated Mattel’s Waving Christmas Barbie®, a Prehistoric Christmas scene, with life-sized dinosaurs celebrating the season, and the iconic BIGFOOT® Monster Truck. With over two million sparkling lights, Magic of Lights offers a nostalgic and festive experience that everyone will love.

Plus, don’t miss the expanded Holiday Village powered by IID, where families can step out of their vehicles and explore a wonderland of walk-through attractions and an array of delightful holiday activities creating cherished memories—all at no additional cost.

“IID is pleased to be a new sponsor of the Coachella Valley’s dazzling Magic of Lights holiday tradition, where we will proudly be powering up the special Holiday Village that follows the wonderful drive-through light display,” said IID Board Chairwoman Gina Dockstader. “Be sure to make your way to the Holiday Village Powered by IID to continue to the magic of this special time of year.”

QUICK FACTS – MAGIC OF LIGHTS

• 2+ million lights illuminate each Magic of Lights experience
• 12.6 miles of light cord power every Magic of Lights event
• 3,750 dedicated staff hours required to construct each magical display
• Steel frameworks are precision-designed, cut, bent and welded into approximately 800 individual frames, combined in various configurations to create massive holiday scenes. Every frame is engineered using cutting-edge CAD technology and handcrafted in-house following detailed 15-page design specifications.
• Each Magic of Lights installation utilizes roughly 10 miles of steel framework and 10 miles of LED lighting woven throughout the displays, incorporating 10 distinct colors of LED bulbs.
• Magnificent scenes, including the animated Mattel’s Waving Christmas Barbie, soar up to 32 feet tall and stretch several hundred feet in length.

Magic of Lights illuminates the night from 5:30pm-9:00pm Sunday – Thursday and 5:30pm-10:00pm Friday and Saturday beginning November 18 through December 31. Tickets for this extraordinary holiday celebration are available for purchase starting today, with convenient per-vehicle pricing.

For a complete schedule and to purchase tickets, visit MagicOfLights.com/CoachellaValley

Segerstrom Center for the Arts proudly celebrates a dazzling milestone—the 10th anniversary of Southern California’s most cherished holiday tradition, American Ballet Theatre’s breathtaking production of The Nutcracker. Returning to the grand stage of Segerstrom Hall for 14 enchanting performances, December 11–21, 2025, this spectacular production continues to captivate audiences with its timeless magic, exquisite dancing, and lavish design. Co-presented by the Center and American Ballet Theatre, this landmark season features ABT’s international all-star cast under the visionary leadership of Artistic Director Susan Jaffe, with choreography by Alexei Ratmansky and Tchaikovsky’s iconic score performed live by Pacific Symphony.

A decade after its debut, The Nutcracker remains the region’s most magnificent holiday celebration—an unforgettable experience for audiences of all ages. American Ballet Theatre has produced several critically acclaimed productions of this family-friendly classic tale of Clara and the Nutcracker over the years. The Nutcracker, with its timeless music by Tchaikovsky and splendid costumes and scenery, is the perfect way to introduce children to ballet and inspire them to study dance and become a little Clara or Nutcracker Prince themselves.

This production, with choreography by Alexei Ratmansky, scenery and costumes by Tony Award^® winner Richard Hudson (Disney’s The Lion King), and lighting by Tony Award^® winner Jennifer Tipton, received its World Premiere in 2010.   

Casting for The Nutcracker

ABT Artistic Director Susan Jaffe has released principal casting which will include Isabella Boylston as Clara, the Princess, and James Whiteside as The Nutcracker Prince on Opening Night, Thursday, December 11. 

A number of dancers are making their debuts in their roles –Michael de la Nuez, Léa Fleytoux, Joseph Markey, Jarod Curley and Jake Roxander.

Thursday, December 11 at 7 p.m. Isabella Boylston, James Whiteside

Friday, December 12 at 7 p.m. Catherine Hurlin, Joseph Markey*

Saturday, December 13 at 2 p.m. Chloe Misseldine, Jarod Curley*

Saturday, December 13 at 7 p.m. Hee Seo, Cory Stearns

Sunday, December 14 at 11:30 a.m. SunMi Park, Calvin Royal III

Sunday, December 14 at 4:30 p.m. Christine Shevchenko, Michael de la Nuez*

Tuesday, December 16 at 7 p.m. Skylar Brandt, Herman Cornejo

Wednesday, December 17 at 7 p.m. Christine Shevchenko, Michael de la Nuez

Thursday, December 18 at 7 p.m. Léa Fleytoux*, Jake Roxander*

Friday, December 19 at 7 p.m. Hee Seo, Joo Won Ahn

Saturday, December 20 at 2 p.m. Skylar Brandt, Herman Cornejo

Saturday, December 20 at 7 p.m.  SunMi Park, Daniel Camargo

Sunday, December 21 at 11:30 a.m.  Catherine Hurlin, Joseph Markey

Sunday, December 21 at 4:30 p.m. Léa Fleytoux, Jake Roxander

*Indicates the first time in the role

American Ballet Theatre’s The Nutcracker 

Segerstrom Center for the Arts 

Segerstrom Hall 

Ticket start at $39

December 11– 21, 2025

Thursday, December 11 at 7 p.m.

Friday, December 12 at 7 p.m.

Saturday, December 13 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Sunday, December 14 at 11:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

Tuesday, December 16 at 7:00 p.m.

Wednesday, December 17 at 7 p.m.

Thursday, December 18 at 7 p.m.

Friday, December 19 at 7 p.m.

Saturday, December 20 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Sunday, December 21 at 11:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

In-person and Phone- 

The Box Office 

600 Town Center Drive 

Costa Mesa, CA 92626 

(714) 556-2787 

Monday 10 am – 2 pm 

Tuesday through Friday Noon- 5 pm 

Closed Saturdays and Sundays 

Online – SCFTA.org 

Credit: Segerstrom Center for the Arts®

The Holiday Ice Rink Pershing Square returns to downtown Los Angeles this winter, open from Thursday, November 20, 2025 to Sunday, January 11, 2026.  Our annual Opening Celebration takes place on Thursday evening, November 20, in Pershing Square.

Open seasonally, The Holiday Ice Rink Pershing Square has brought winter fun to sunny Los Angeles for more than 25 years. At 7,200 square feet, it is the city’s largest outdoor rink, offering visitors professional-quality ice for skating and entertainment, welcoming more than 45,000 skaters and 221,000 spectators annually. The rink fosters community, while embracing winter fitness and fun. This year’s beneficiary is once again the City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation & Parks. Sponsors include DTLA Alliance, Classical California KUSC, Metro and Metrolink.

“Whether you are a Los Angeles resident or simply visiting for the holiday season, the Holiday Ice Rink Pershing Square is an absolute must when it comes to embracing winter in Los Angeles,” says Willy Bietak, president of Los Angeles-based Willy Bietak Productions.

Special programs for the 2025-26 holiday season

Opening Celebration
Thursday, November 20, 2025 I 5 – 7pm
We’re kicking off the season with an unforgettable celebration featuring on-ice performances and special treats from Sprinkles. After the performances, hit the ice for some skating fun with friends and family.

DJ Spotlight – Collection of LA’s hottest DJs
Select Thursdays, December 4 – January 8  I 7 pm to close
Get ready to groove at DJ Spotlight, the ultimate weekly event where LA’s hottest DJs take you on a genre-spanning musical journey! From soul and funk to disco and new wave, and all the way through modern pop and 90s throwbacks, we’ve got your favorite tracks covered.

Classical Sundays presented by Classical California KUSC
Sundays I Noon and 1:30pm sessions
Join us every Sunday for our Classical Sunday Skate Sessions! Glide gracefully on the rink as you immerse yourself in the soothing sounds of classical music, presented by Classical KUSC. Enjoy the beauty of skating to timeless melodies in a serene setting that elevates your experience.

Learn To Curl – Hosted by the Hollywood Curling Club I $25
Select Saturdays in December
Looking for a fun and unique way to spend your Saturday? Join us for our one-hour Learn-To-Curl lessons hosted by the Hollywood Curling Club! Experience the thrill of sliding stones on the ice and enjoying the camaraderie of fellow curlers.

Located at 532 South Olive Street, this landmark destination is easily accessible by car, bus, Metro (Pershing Square stop) or Metrolink. General admission to the rink, including skate rental, is $22, locker rental is $5, and skate helpers are $6.  Tickets can be purchased in advance starting October 8 online at www.holidayicerinkdowntownla.com.

Private parties are available on select Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays from 4:30pm-7:30pm session. Private parties are not available Nov 24-28,2025 and Dec 22, 2025  – Jan 4, 2026 (The rate for a private party is $10,000. Sessions are not open to the public if sold to a private party.)  

Reach us on Social Media     

Official Hashtag:  #HolidayIceRinkDTLA Facebook: facebook.com/HolidayIceRinkDTLA Instagram: @HolidayIceRinkDTLA

TikTok:    @HolidayIceRinkDTLA

ReflectSpace is pleased to present a solo exhibition of first-generation Colombian-American artist Carolyn Castaño. Born, raised, and educated in California, Castaño’s work reflects her experience as the daughter of immigrants—iterative, interdisciplinary—moving drawings and paintings from the two-dimensional flatness of paper or canvas to digitally printed fabric, to videos that incorporate animated drawings, to furniture pieces, to nail decals featured within the larger context of a video.

In Viajero del Tiempo/Time Traveler, Castaño draws on her late father’s photographic archive—comprising 4,000 photographs, films, and videos—to consider the fragility and ephemerality of memory and identity. The pictures in the exhibition are juxtaposed next to drawings of the landscape (inspired by Alexander von Humboldt’s landscapes and botanical studies) to consider how the land figures in the trajectory and memory of the migrant/immigrant.

The exhibition will include archives, mixed media work as well as work from Castaño’s “Future Ruana” series that is named after the humble woolen poncho worn in the Andes and used as a multipurpose, utilitarian object. Castaño reimagines the ruana as a metaphorical object with speculative implications like a magic carpet.

Complementing Castaño’s work, the PassageWay will feature photographs by young women from the Las Fotos Project—an organization that elevates the voices of teenage girls and gender-expansive youth from communities of color through photography and mentoring. Viajero del Tiempo/Time Traveler is curated by Ara and Anahid Oshagan.

Carolyn Castaño is a Los Angeles–based artist whose eco-feminist practice spans painting, installation, video, and artist books. Her work explores landscape, migration, and female and family identities through a blend of drawing, photography, and performance with patterns drawn from textiles, design, and geometric abstraction. Castaño is the recipient of the 2025 Guggenheim Fellowship in Fine Arts, the 2013 Joan Mitchell Foundation Grant, and fellowships from the California Community Foundation and the City of Los Angeles.

Recent solo exhibitions include Craft Contemporary and the Orange County Museum of Art. Her work has been featured in group exhibitions LACMA and the 56th Venice Biennale. Castaño is a Professor of Drawing and Painting at Long Beach City College and holds degrees from the San Francisco Art Institute and UCLA.
 

Exhibition Dates:

November 15, 2025 – February 1, 2026 

Opening Reception:

Saturday, November 15, 2025, 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM

Artist Talk:

Exhibiting artists will participate in an artist talk on Thursday, January 22, 2026, 6:30 PM; more information can be found at ReflectSpace.org.

Location:

ReflectSpace / Glendale Central Library

222 East Harvard Street

Glendale, CA 91205

Phone: (818) 548-2021

Credit: REFLECTSPACE

Let’s be honest—family beach days always sound easy in your head, but somehow everyone’s sunscreen ends up in the sand, the snacks disappear by noon, and someone inevitably forgets the towels. But it doesn’t have to be chaos in flip-flops! With a little bit of planning (and a dash of patience), you can turn a family beach day into a memory everyone wants to repeat—grandparents, toddlers, and even the moody teens in tow.

Pack Like a Pro (But Don’t Overdo It)

Here’s the golden rule: you’ll need less than you think…except when it comes to snacks. Load up a sturdy beach tote with:

• Sunscreen (reapply, reapply, reapply!)
• Hats and sunglasses for everyone (yes, even Grandpa)
• Towels (plus one for emergencies—trust me)
• A pop-up shade or lightweight umbrella

I always pack a mix of quick snacks—think grapes, crackers, pretzels—and plenty of water. Skip anything chocolatey (it melts) or that could go bad in the sun. If you’re bringing someone from a senior living community or have little ones along, add extra water and easy-to-eat treats so nobody gets cranky.

Plan for Comfort and Downtime

There’s something magical about the ocean breeze, but after a while, even the most die-hard beach bum needs a break. Bring folding chairs, a good book, and consider a lightweight blanket or mat for sandy naps.

If Grandma’s joining, look for a beach with easy boardwalk access or handicap-friendly paths—lots of spots now have special mats so everyone can get close to the water. A simple, portable seat cushion or easy-up shade can go a long way for folks who need extra support or just want to sit back and people-watch.

Bring the Fun (But Not a Whole Toy Store)

You don’t need a carload of gear to keep kids happy at the beach. A bucket, a shovel, and maybe a ball can fuel hours of imagination. Older kids and adults might like frisbees or beach paddleball, but don’t be surprised if the best toys are shells and smooth stones.

If you want to score “coolest adult at the beach,” bring along a waterproof deck of cards or reusable water balloons. Sometimes, the best fun is just chasing the waves or building the world’s “worst” sandcastle together.

Keep an Eye on Safety

Rip currents are no joke. Always set up your base near a lifeguard station and remind everyone of basic safety: grownups swim near kids—no exceptions. If anyone in the group goes walking, especially the littles or those who tire easily, give them a whistle or set “check-in” times.

Capture the Memories (But Stay in the Moment)

It’s tempting to try and snap a picture of every cute moment, but you’ll cherish a few great photos way more than a hundred blurry candids. Pick your phone moments, then put it away and join the fun. The best beach day memories usually come from splashing beside someone or sharing watermelon on a towel—not scrolling through your inbox.

Embrace the Sand (and Maybe the Chaos)

Here’s the trick—sand is going to end up everywhere, someone will forget something, and the weather might not listen to your plans. Roll with it and focus on the laughs, the stories, and the shared adventure. With good company and a little prep, every day at the beach can feel like just what the family needed—even if you track home half the shoreline in your car.

Keeping Baby Close and Safe

It’s completely natural for parents to want their newborns close by. Dr. William Sears, a board-certified pediatrician, recommends that babies sleep in the same room as their parents, but not in the same bed, for at least the first year. Room-sharing allows parents to respond quickly to feeding needs and offers emotional reassurance for both parent and child.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) emphasizes that co-sleeping, meaning sharing a bed, is not safe under any circumstances. The safest setup is a separate sleep surface, such as a bassinet, that allows closeness without risk. A well-designed bassinet offers the perfect compromise between proximity and safety.

Safety Standards to Look For

When shopping for a bassinet, the first thing parents should check is safety certification. Look for the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) or the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) labels — both are trusted indicators that a product meets or exceeds established safety standards. These certifications ensure the bassinet has passed rigorous testing for stability, materials, and construction quality.

It’s also important to review the manufacturer’s age and weight recommendations. For example, Arm’s Reach® Co-Sleeper® bassinets are designed for infants up to about five months old, or until a baby begins to push up on hands and knees — whichever comes first. Once your child reaches this stage, it’s time to transition to a crib to maintain a safe sleep environment.

Portability and Convenience

One of the main advantages of a bassinet is portability. Many models are lightweight and easy to move from room to room, making them a convenient choice for parents who want to keep their baby close during naps or overnight travel. This flexibility can make a huge difference in those early months, when having your baby nearby can simplify nighttime feeding and provide peace of mind.

Firm Support and Safe Sleep

A safe bassinet isn’t just about sturdy construction, because the mattress matters, too. Babies should sleep on a firm, flat surface. A soft or overly flexible mattress may seem comfortable but can actually pose suffocation risks. Parents should always check that the mattress is firm enough to hold a baby’s weight without sagging, and that the sheet fits snugly around it.

The Benefits of Keeping Baby Within Arm’s Reach

Having your baby within reach at night can promote bonding and make those countless nighttime feedings a little easier. The Arm’s Reach® Co-Sleeper® bassinet, first introduced in 1997, was the pioneer in this space. It securely attaches to a parent’s bed, creating a safe and convenient setup that allows parents to comfort their baby without getting up. All while maintaining a separate sleep surface.

This proximity helps parents and babies feel connected, especially in the first few months when establishing sleep routines and emotional security is so important.

Final Thoughts

A bassinet can be a wonderful addition to your nursery, especially during your baby’s first months of life. When choosing one, prioritize safety certifications, age guidelines, and firm mattress support. Think about how it will fit into your home and daily routine, whether that means portability for flexible sleeping arrangements or easy access for nighttime care.

 Get ready for a Halloween experience like no other: Castle Dark is back at Castle Park in Riverside, bringing terrifying thrills and family-friendly fun to Southern California. Running on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from September 19 through November 1, Castle Dark 2025 offers visitors a full night of scares, excitement, and entertainment—all included with a Castle Dark ticket. Tickets include access to all mazes, scare zones, live shows, and park rides.

National-Scale Haunts and Highlights for 2025:

• Three All-New Mazes: Step into twisted worlds with Feary Tales (dark fairy tales), Midnight Manor (a cursed mansion), and Containment Breach (science gone wrong).
• Chilling Scare Zones: When night falls, twisted characters roam The Endless Chapter, The Forgotten Kingdom, and Outbreak, filled with monsters, creatures, and spine-tingling surprises.
• Live Shows: Echoes from the Grave debuts as a theatrical performance set to mesmerize audiences.
• After Dark Party: Step into the Big Top Tent for high-energy fun with a live DJ, delicious food, refreshing beverages, and specialty cocktails and drinks for guests 21 years and older.

For families seeking more treats than scares, Castle Park also presents Día de los Muertos every Saturday and Sunday from noon to 5:30 p.m., September 20 through November 2. The event celebrates Mexican and Latin American fall traditions with vibrant decorations, local performers, kid-friendly activities, and trick-or-treating.

Tickets & Admission:

• Castle Dark tickets are on sale now at Castle Park :: Ticket Selection :: Castle Dark Tickets
• Annual Passholders enjoy free admission.
• Gates open nightly at 7 p.m. Recommended for ages 13 years and older.

Castle Dark promises thrills for Southern California and visitors from across the nation. Don’t miss your chance to experience the ultimate Halloween event—including rides, mazes, and scares—all in one night.

For more information on Castle Park, visit https://castlepark.com