PICK OF THE MONTH: Knott’s Merry Farm
Saturday, December 1 – Monday, January 6
The fun of Knott’s Merry Farm is now underway and continues through Jan. 5 with all its usual merriment and some new additions, too. This year, the park debuts a new holiday-themed production at the Calico Mine Stage called “Home for the Holidays” to enchant park-goers with traditional Christmas tunes, performers, festive lights, dancing toys and dazzling snow, all happening on the most ambitious stage ever created at Knott’s. Of course, some of the Merry Farm favorites are back, including the “Merry Christmas Snoopy!” ice show at the Charles M. Schulz Theatre, featuring Snoopy, the Peanuts gang and a cast of world-class ice skaters. And you don’t want to miss the historic Bird Cage Theatre as it brings to life a classic Charles Dickens’ tale, “A Christmas Carol” and its new holiday sequel “Marley’s Wings” — answering the question: Has Ebenezer Scrooge really changed? Other highlights include Santa’s Christmas Cabin and the wintry Snow and Glow experience. Daily hours and shows available on its website.
Knott’s Berry Farm, 8039 Beach Blvd., Buena Park
714-220-5200 | knotts.com
Skating Under The Stars
Sunday, December 1 – Sunday, January 5
Winter is extra nice at the Irvine Spectrum Center’s ice rink. Skating typically is available 3 pm-11 pm daily (although it’s closed 5:30 pm-6 pm and 8:30 pm-9 pm for cleaning). The fun includes Themed Thursdays’ fun and special themed nights, like Crazy Christmas Hats (December 12) and Ugly Holiday Sweater (December 26). Find more rink details on its website.
Irvine Spectrum Center, 670 Spectrum Center Dr., Irvine
714-462-7027 | irvinespectrumcenter.com
A Christmas Carol
Tuesdays – Sundays, December 1 – December 24
SCR’s celebrated original adaptation of the Charles Dickens classic reaches its 40-year milestone this year. It’s also actor Hal Landon Jr.’s 40th (and final) year playing Scrooge. There’ll be no show December 4 and December 8’s 2:30 pm show is an interpreted performance. Check website for showtimes. No children under the age of 6 will be admitted.
Segerstrom Stage, South Coast Repertory 655 Town Center Dr., Costa Mesa
714-708-5555 | scr.org
Lil’ Dickens Carolers
Sunday, December 1 – Sunday, December 22
A quartet of Christmas Carolers will be strolling Roger’s Gardens throughout the day serenading guests with a lovely repertoire of holiday favorites and sacred Christmas carols. Their singing makes the perfect accompaniment to your strolling Roger’s Gardens looking for some enchanting accessories or holidays gift items at the Christmas boutique.
Roger’s Gardens, 2301 San Joaquin Rd., Corona Del Mar
949-640-5800 | rogersgardens.com
Winter Fest
Thursday December 19-Sunday January 5
The nine-lane Snowflake Summit ice tubing slide, Santa’s Toy Carnival, the 19th century-themed SoCal Dicken’s Village (with Santa’s Favorite Furry Friends petting zoo), two giant walk-through ornaments, and Flying Santa are among this seasonal extravaganza’s returning favorites. Plus, Penny’s Snow Play & Slides has doubled in size and there’s a new Ice Skating Trail too. There’s just too much fun to describe!
OC Fair & Event Center, 88 Fair Dr., Costa Mesa | winterfestoc.com
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Julio says
Very interesting magazine, gave as many important info.