Featured SoCal Events and Services
The Queen Mary’s Dark Harbor Makes a Haunting Return for Its 13th Season
The Queen Mary’s Dark Harbor returns for its 13th season, opening September 18 and running select nights through November 1. Tickets start at $50.99 on select nights. This fall, the world’s most haunted vessel summons guests back into the fog with six terrifying mazes, including the all-new Shipwrecked: Brace for Impact and reimagined versions of Lullaby, Infirmary, and Big Top Terror. Across the … [Read More...]
Magic of the Jack O’Lanterns Illuminates South Coast Botanic Garden With More Than 10,000 Carved Pumpkins
More than 10,000 hand-carved jack-o’-lanterns will illuminate South Coast Botanic Garden this fall as Magic of the Jack O’Lanterns returns to Palos Verdes. Presented by Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group, a leading producer and operator of immersive experiences, the family-friendly Halloween event will welcome guests on select nights from September 18 through November 1. Set … [Read More...]
9/26&27: Aquarium’s Baja Splash Cultural Festival, 25th anniversary
Pictured: Danza Azteca Cultural Ketzaliztli to celebrate twenty-five years of being part of the Aquarium's first cultural festival: Baja Splash Photo Credit: Aquarium of the Pacific In celebration of the beauty and diversity of cultures found from Mexico to Central and South America to Cuba, Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, and beyond, the Aquarium of the Pacific will host its twenty-fifth … [Read More...]
Cheers to 30 Years! Free Encinitas Oktoberfest Returns Sept. 27
Where else can you experience Bavaria with ocean breezes, family-friendly surf-town vibes, dogs in lederhosen, brats and craft beer? It’s all happening at the 30th Annual Encinitas Oktoberfest on Sunday, September 27 from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. This beloved community tradition and premier Oktoberfest in San Diego County is back for its 30th year, bigger and better than … [Read More...]
SoCal City Kids News
Aquarium invites SoCal higher education students to apply to its CELP Scholar Program
CELP Scholar 2026 Cohort Announcement at Aquarium of the Pacific on Saturday, March 14, 2026 in Long Beach, California. Photo Credit: The Aquarium of the Pacific. Students currently enrolled in a community college, undergraduate, masters, or PhD program in Southern California are invited to apply for the 2027 cohort of the Aquarium of the Pacific’s Community, Equity, Learning, and Persistence … [Read More...]
Celebrate KIDS FIRST! 35th Anniversary (And Win a Trip to Portugal!)
For 35 years, KIDS FIRST! has helped parents and educators navigate youth media. From honest reviews to red-carpet interviews by our 65 youth reporters, we empower families to make informed media choices. To celebrate our official 35th Anniversary on September 26, we’re giving back to the supporters who make our mission possible. Donate by September 26 for 35th Anniversary … [Read More...]
Aquarium releases critically endangered frogs into local mountains, marking its 1000th released
Recently released mountain yellow-legged frogs rest in a stream in the San Gabriel Mountains after being raised and released by the Aquarium of the Pacific into their native habitat August 19, 2026. Credit: The Aquarium of the Pacific. Approximately 653 critically endangered southern mountain yellow-legged frogs (Rana muscosa) were recently released into their native California mountain region … [Read More...]
Aquarium Helps Nearly 500 Trafficked Animals After Recent Seizure By Wildlife Officials
Pictured: Confiscated animals behind the scenesPhoto Credit: Aquarium of the Pacific The Aquarium of the Pacific provided immediate help by taking in nearly 500 animals, including endangered and near threatened species, after a large seizure by wildlife officials. Animals included marine fish, invertebrates, and sharks. The animals arrived at the Aquarium on June 19, 2026, and staff worked … [Read More...]
New QM Cares Merchandise Collection Gives Queen Mary Visitors a Way to Give Back as the Ship Celebrates a Year of Community Impact
Proceeds Support Initiatives Benefiting Queen Mary Team Members, Local Families and the Greater Long Beach Community. Photo Credit: The Queen Mary. The Queen Mary in Long Beach is giving guests a new way to support the community. With the launch of its new QM Cares merchandise collection, visitors can help benefit the ship’s Queen Mary Cares initiatives with every purchase, transforming … [Read More...]
Featured Products
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...]
It’s Time for Back to School!
A Must-Have this school year! The back-to-school season is all about getting organized, and adding a simple hand-cleaning solution to your family's routine can make a big difference. Handzies delivers a true soap-and-water clean in a convenient wipe. Made with natural castile soap, water, and essential oils, Handzies helps keep hands fresh and clean throughout busy school days from the … [Read More...]
More Summer Fun for the Kids!
Smart Games IQ Flow SmartGames IQ Flow by Smart Toys & Games MSRP: $14.99 | Ages 7+ | Available at Specialty Toy Stores & Amazon Smart Games IQ Flow is an addictive travel puzzle game that challenges players to solve 120 progressive challenges ranging from easy to expert. IQ Flow provides hours of engaging brain-building fun, developing essential STEM skills like … [Read More...]
Summer Food Faves!
Perfect for quick Summer meals! Looking for something quick and easy to make for dinner this Summer? Safe Catch has a great option that is also healthier! Better than many chicken nuggets! They’re made with wild-caught Alaska pollock, have 18g of protein per serving, and use avocado oil instead of the typical seed oils. No added sugar. They also taste great so the kids will love them! What … [Read More...]
More Featured Products...
Media Reviews
Practical Magic 2 * That Perfect Mix Of Magic, Romance, Family, Humor, And A Little Mystery
A multi-generational family of witches, cursed to be loveless for centuries, attempts to break the spell by confronting dark secrets and sacrificing for each other. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Kennedy P. comments, “The Owens witches are back. I absolutely loved stepping back into this world and seeing these beloved characters and their family story continue. Practical Magic 2 has that perfect mix … [Read More...]
The Magic Faraway Tree * A Star-Studded, Family Oriented Movie That Has The Perfect Balance Of Whimsy, Adventure, And Intricate Character Arcs
Adapted from Enid Blyton’s beloved classic novel The Magic Faraway Tree, the film centers on Polly (Foy), Tim (Garfield), and their three children - a modern family forced to relocate to the remote English countryside. As they adapt to their new lives, the children discover a magical tree and its extraordinary and eccentric residents, including treasured characters Moonface (Anozie), Silky … [Read More...]
Books of the Month: September 2026
KALEIDOSCOPE OF HOPE: How Butterfly Life Cycles Reflect Our World by Miranda Paul, illustrated by Hari & Deepti Over a decade ago, Miranda Paul and her children read A Place for Butterflies by Melissa Stewart – they’ve been hooked on helping pollinators ever since. From re-landscaping their yard and participating in community science projects, to raising … [Read More...]
More Media Reviews...
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
Rally, Sept.18 Pet of the Week
AWWWWWWWW! Rally has earned his name. He’s a 4-year-old Longtime Legend, meaning that he’s been at Long Beach Animal Care Services for over a year. That’s mainly because has been spending his weeks and months dealing with knee surgery that Friends of Long Beach Animals covered. And Rally has rallied and continues to rally! He’s learning to walk gently on leash and enjoys rides in the car. On … [Read More...]
Malachite, Sept. 11 Pet of the Week
AWWWWWWW! Meet Malachite. This handsome one-year-old came to the shelter with a group of young dogs, all of whom have since found their homes. So why is Malachite still waiting? If you ask his friends at the shelter, they’ll tell you the truth: the shelter just isn’t where he shines. Malachite is a sensitive, shy soul, and when he feels overwhelmed in his kennel, he doesn’t always know what to … [Read More...]
Bobbi Sox, Sept. 4 Pet of the Week
AWWWWW! Meet sweet Bobbi Sox. She’s only about 8 months old, and she’s already experienced tragedy. Bobbi was found after she was hit by a car—the incident caused a seizure and left her with head trauma and a wobbly walk. But it didn’t affect her personality—Bobbi just wants cuddles and pets, to hang out with people, and a nap on your lap. Bobbi needs more than just a loving home—she needs … [Read More...]
Prince, Aug. 28 Pet of the Week
AWWWWW! Long Beach Animal Care Services is partnering with Helen Sanders CatPAWS for the Sweet 16 Special. The adoption promo offers an adoption fee of only $16 for any cat 3 months and over until Labor Day, Sept. 7. We hope you’ll consider Prince, who’s Sweet 16 himself and very special! His adoption fee is actually $5, to encourage a senior adoption—with his glossy black coat and … [Read More...]
