Events in Newport Beach, CA

An open creative meetup in the OCUUC community room brings together painters, quilters, sketchers, crafters, and other makers to work on individual or collaborative projects in a relaxed, supportive setting. Everyone is welcome, whether an experienced artist, a hobbyist, a friend of OCUUC, or someone brand new. Attendees share news about workshops and exhibitions, trade tips on materials and techniques, and contribute to outreach by making original-art greeting cards for the OCUUC caring committee and bracelets that show support for the Ukrainian community. The group also curates art displays in the administration building lobby, featuring work by OCUUC members and friends, with recent themes including The Art of Travel and Art & Activism and a solo showcase of acrylic paintings by Elizabeth Kilchoer.

A community-focused Brazilian Zouk gathering that begins with an open level class taught by Marissa Rivera, suitable for everyone and no partner is required, then flows into a social with music from DJ Amastrus, DJ Viktor, and a special guest. Birthday rodas and a performance add to the celebration. Guests may bring snacks, and light refreshments will be provided. Held at Vivid Movement in Costa Mesa. Pricing is $30 in advance or $35 at the door. A carpool discount is available for those traveling from San Diego.

Celebrate the close of summer with a beach gathering hosted by the OC Women’s Group, created for both long-standing members and newcomers looking to build real-life connections in a relaxed coastal setting. Expect a laid-back, breezy, and energetic vibe as the community comes together to unwind and recharge. The afternoon features a social mixer with local leaders and opportunities to meet women from nearby neighborhoods and across Orange County. Light refreshments and summery snacks will be available, and attendees may bring their own beach-friendly beverages. Music will set the tone throughout, and a celebratory toast will cap the evening to honor what the group has achieved this year, including a milestone of 11,000 members. To stay comfortable, consider bringing a beach chair or blanket and a light jacket for cooler moments, and feel free to invite a friend to share the experience.

Aliso Beach will host a community potluck with drumming and dancing under the full moon. Participants must confirm their spot through the Social Friends WhatsApp group, since interest alone does not guarantee participation. A coordinated list is being set up so attendees can choose what to contribute. Food should be strictly vegetarian, excluding eggs, meat, poultry, mushrooms, seafood and fish. The gathering is alcohol and drug free, with no smoking or weed. The focus is clean food, kindness and a spirit of purity inspired by the moon, the ocean and the earth.

La Casa presents Orangewood Rocks, a live music night at the Lido Theatre with performances by M Street and The Burritos. General admission is $60 and seating is first come, first seated. A popcorn and a soda are included with every ticket, and alcohol service will be available for purchase. There will also be opportunity tickets for prizes and a 50/50 split the pot cash drawing. Ticket purchases and donations support children served by the Orangewood Children & Family Center, funding educational outings, enjoyable activities, and essential personal items for kids in care. Attendees can reserve spots, include guests, and select their level of support. This event is not affiliated with the Orangewood Foundation.

Ian Bagg takes the stage for a live performance at Irvine Improv.

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Orange County SC hosts Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC at Championship Soccer Stadium at the Great Park complex in Irvine for a meeting between teams from different conferences. Pittsburgh is known for disciplined defending and swift counterattacks, while Orange County prefers to dictate the pace at home, setting up a clash of approaches that could hinge on a handful of decisive moments. With late-season points influencing the playoff picture, the matchup should feature sharp focus and intensity from kickoff.

California Bridal & Wedding Expo brings together a curated group of wedding experts at the OC Fair & Event Center. Whether the vision is a sophisticated black tie celebration or a laid back ceremony in the sand, attendees can receive practical guidance and inspiration to shape lasting memories for the big day.

Attacca Quartet launches the season with a program that places Beethoven in conversation with the composers he continues to inspire. Recognized for clarity, rhythmic drive, and adventurous choices, the ensemble pairs Beethoven’s Op. 131, a late quartet prized for its seamless arc and introspective depth, with music by Caroline Shaw, Paul Wiancko, and Radiohead. Heard side by side, these works highlight connections that bridge centuries of musical ideas. In this setting, Beethoven’s voice emerges as immediate and alive. As an opening statement for the season, the concert presents Beethoven as both a starting point and a continuing force.

Non-anesthetic teeth cleaning for dogs and cats is available at Penny's Pup Wash. Each appointment takes less than an hour and supports fresh breath and clean teeth. A veterinary screening or exam is required. This is a one day event with limited appointments. See Get Tickets for details.

Enjoy a performance by Social Distortion at The Masonic in San Francisco.

With a new song now on country radio, Mitch and his band will play plenty of country music and sprinkle in a few surprise songs.

A candle-making workshop by Wickid Candle at Parc Cafe sets a relaxed wine-inspired vibe. Tickets are available on Eventbrite, with VIP admission priced at $50 and seating limited to 20.

At Segerstrom Center for the Arts, Isaiah Collier treats John Coltrane’s music as a vibrant, evolving art rather than a copy. Inspired by Coltrane’s spiritual force and bold improvising, he carries that lineage through a voice that is urgent, wide ranging, and intimately his own. The performance salutes a pivotal figure in jazz and shows how the tradition continues to develop from one generation to the next. Collier exemplifies a rising movement in American jazz, musicians who cherish their heritage yet resist boundaries. The result is both rooted and charged, giving longtime fans new angles to consider while welcoming first-time listeners to Coltrane’s lasting legacy.

Snarky Puppy brings a dynamic blend of jazz, funk, and groove, powered by complex rhythms, adventurous improvisation, and tight-knit musical chemistry. Each moment showcases world-class musicianship, channeling creativity and momentum into a live experience filled with energy and musical brilliance.

Experience the songs of Juan Gabriel reimagined for strings in a candlelit setting at The Lido Theater in Orange County. This concert offers an intimate, multi-sensory atmosphere as a string quartet brings beloved melodies to life. It is a tribute presentation and is not associated with, endorsed, or sponsored by the artist, the estate, or official representatives. The concert lasts 60 minutes, doors open 45 minutes before the music begins, and there is no late entry after the start. Attendees must be at least 8 years old, and anyone under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. The balcony is reachable only by stairs, and seats are assigned within each zone in the order of arrival. The tentative setlist features Buenos Días Señor Sol, Así Fue, Abrázame Muy Fuerte, La Diferencia, Querida, No Tengo Dinero, Por Qué Me Haces Llorar, Siempre en Mi Mente, Amor Eterno, Pero Qué Necesidad, El Noa Noa, and Caray. Music is performed by Range Ensemble, a Los Angeles based string quartet.

A candlelit tribute to 90s favorites fills The Lido Theater in Orange County with an intimate, multi-sensory atmosphere as Range Ensemble, a Los Angeles string quartet, performs arrangements of songs like Everlong, Don't Speak, Zombie, Ironic, Wonderwall, High and Dry, Enter Sandman, Under the Bridge, Fly Away, Hallelujah, Tears in Heaven, and Smells Like Teen Spirit. This experience celebrates the music of the era as a tribute and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the original artists, their estates, or official representatives. The performance runs for 60 minutes. Doors open 45 minutes before the music begins, and there is no late entry once the show starts. Guests must be at least 8 years old, and anyone under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Balcony access is by stairs only. Seating is assigned within each zone on a first come, first served basis.

At the TACA National Autism Conference, families, caregivers, educators, and professionals come together from across the country for a weekend centered on practical help and learning. Attendees can explore four dedicated tracks and more than 40 sessions that share actionable strategies and insights. A bustling exhibitor hall showcases autism-focused resources, products, and services to support individuals and their loved ones at every stage. Throughout the weekend, there are opportunities to ask questions, listen to encouraging firsthand experiences, and connect with people who understand both the challenges and the triumphs of supporting individuals with autism. Whether you are parenting someone newly diagnosed or guiding a loved one through adulthood, this conference offers reliable information, useful tools, and a community you can count on well beyond the event.

Iconic 90s hip hop is reimagined through string arrangements in a candlelit setting at the Hyatt Regency Newport Beach. Expect medleys celebrating music by the Fugees and Lauryn Hill, Jay-Z, Nas, Outkast, Missy “Misdemeanor” Elliott, A Tribe Called Quest, Wu-Tang Clan, 2Pac, The Notorious B.I.G., and Dr. Dre. The performance runs 60 minutes, doors open 45 minutes before the show, and late entry is not permitted once it begins. Guests must be 8 years or older, and anyone under 16 must attend with an adult. The venue is ADA compliant. Seating within each zone is assigned on a first come, first served basis. This is a tribute experience and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the original artists, their estates, or official representatives.

This is all about embracing getting older and having a blast.

Set at UCI Campus, Aldrich Park, this community ride and run supports cancer research and honors survivors as well as loved ones remembered. Participants can choose from a 5K run and walk, road cycling routes of approximately 14, 35, 60, or 100 miles, and a 20-mile mountain bike ride. Whether tackling the longest route, exploring the dedicated mountain bike course, or sharing a 5K with family and friends, there is an option for every pace. Routes take in scenic stretches around Orange County. Funds raised benefit research at the UCI Health Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center and Rady Children’s Health.

https://www.anti-cancerchallenge.org/TeamRodriguez

This event presents a curated showcase of standout automobiles in Orange County, paired with food and cocktails. The display spans vintage machines, modified builds, early muscle, exotics, and motorcycles. A limited number of spaces remain for vehicle displays across all categories.

The 56th U.S. National Speedway Championship brings one of the most coveted honors in American motorcycle speedway to Costa Mesa Speedway. This premier individual contest determines the United States National Champion, recognizing the top rider of the season. Competitors earn their places through regional qualifying and season-long results, and the racing showcases the elite ranks of Division 1. The winner gains nationwide recognition and potential international opportunities. On-site features include motorcycle vendors such as Lifestyle Cycles and others, along with food and drinks and a live band. General admission is $30 for ages 11 and up, and children under 10 are admitted free. Parking at the OC Fair is $15 for cars and motorcycles. This is a cashless event, so card payment is required.

Experience a night of live music as Urgent_LA, featuring Jeff Lyons, brings the classic hits of Foreigner to the stage. Pair the show with dinner and drinks for a complete evening. Recent performances sold out, so purchasing tickets early and reserving a table in advance is recommended.

RemiX ignites the room with a dynamic mix of funk, R&B, and New Jack Swing built to get you moving. More than a concert, it is an immersive groove where deep rhythms, bold vocals, and nonstop momentum drive the night. Longtime followers will recognize the feel, and first timers have a perfect chance to dive in.

At Segerstrom Center for the Arts, Brooklyn Rider unveils a program that places Beethoven’s String Quartet in C major, Op. 59, No. 3 in conversation with music ranging from Haydn to contemporary voices. Written as part of the Razumovsky set commissioned by Count Razumovsky, Beethoven’s work represents a turning point in his evolution, expanding the quartet’s expressive scope and structural daring. By presenting it alongside earlier and modern perspectives, the concert traces how his ideas grew out of the chamber tradition and continue to shape it today. Known for finely tuned ensemble work, an inquisitive spirit, and advocacy for new music, the quartet approaches this repertoire with balance and clarity, honoring the past while speaking directly to the present. The program reflects a season-wide focus on Beethoven as both a steward of tradition and a driver of artistic change.

Anesthesia-free dental cleanings for dogs and cats help freshen breath and keep teeth clean. Each appointment takes under an hour, and a veterinary screening or exam is required beforehand. This is a single-day offering with limited availability. For more information and to reserve a spot, select Get Tickets.

At Irvine Barclay Theatre in Irvine, experience a live conversation with Yotam Ottolenghi as he celebrates his forthcoming cookbook, SIMPLE TOO, the follow up to Ottolenghi Simple. The program explores what cooking simply can look like in busy, modern life, sharing recipes that fit real schedules so even a half formed plan can become a deeply satisfying meal. Through stories about developing the book with co author Verena Lochmuller and practical kitchen tips, Ottolenghi highlights ingredients and techniques that shape the new collection, including lightly dressed beans, black chickpeas, generous uses of sesame, sweet and spicy contrasts, pasta finished directly in its sauce, and whole meals roasted on a single tray for easier cleanup. He will also introduce the Fundamentals chapter, a set of make ahead flavor builders for the fridge such as spring onion oil, green salsa, za’atar oil, confit tomatoes, and chili crisp that lift weeknight cooking with minimal effort. Arvida Book Co. serves as the bookstore for this event. A leading voice in contemporary food, Ottolenghi is known for vibrant, vegetable forward cooking and has authored beloved titles including Plenty, Jerusalem, Simple, Flavor, and Sweet, alongside a body of work in delis and restaurants that champions bold flavors and accessible techniques.

Chris Isaak, the celebrated singer, actor, and music icon, has been announced as part of the 2026 Summer Concert Series presented by UCI Health, joining the lineup for the season.

Houston Ballet appears at Segerstrom Center for the Arts for the first time with Sons de L’âme, a program set to the piano music of Frédéric Chopin. Marking its first West Coast appearance, the production places pianist George Li onstage with sixteen dancers, featuring solos, intricate partnering, and full-ensemble passages that spotlight both technical precision and the romantic character of Chopin’s scores. The choreography and live piano are closely interlaced, encouraging a dynamic exchange where movement and music drive one another. The title translates to Sounds of the Soul, underscoring this conversation between dance and piano.

Early registration is open for a two-day Bay to Bay MS Ride that travels from Irvine to Carlsbad on day one, then continues from Carlsbad to San Diego on day two. Participants will cover 50 miles each day for a total of 100 miles. A 50 percent discount is available with the code CLUBK26. Additional details will follow. For more information, please contact Tony Wright directly.

Learn the essentials of mosaic creation with guidance from Ron Shearer, building a piece you will be proud to display. Begin with the basics of design, materials, cutting techniques and careful placement using glue to set your layout. Between sessions, complete a small at-home task that prepares you for the follow up class, then return to focus on fine details and finish your artwork. This welcoming workshop suits absolute beginners as well as those looking to refine their skills, and enrollment is limited to 10 students. The fee is $350 per person and includes six hours of instruction across two weekends, along with all materials such as mosaic glass tiles, a design and backing board, and a pair of nippers to keep. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. The class takes place at Sawdust Art Festival, Healy House Studio.

Newcomers are welcome for a guided outing on the Turtle Rock trails. Depending on turnout and the number of leaders, the group may split into two options, one easier and one moderate. Seasoned leaders with 20 to 30 years of local experience will select routes that explore the area around French Hill, with possible segments on the Shady Canyon Trail or a walk toward Bommer Canyon to keep things varied. Please bring water and light hiking boots. Meet at Turtle Rock Community Park and use the parking lot. Leaders will be in the lot rather than by the tennis courts. Dogs are not permitted.

A monthly 80s dance party energizes a revered O.C. venue known for great food, a full bar with Guinness on tap, and lively weekend crowds. Expect music trivia, prizes, and giveaways alongside dance-floor favorites. Bring friends, wear your sunglasses, and enjoy a night that goes all out for a great time.

Orange County welcomes award-winning singer-songwriter Cassie B to Westwood Costa Mesa for a high-energy night of live music and nonstop entertainment. Recently recognized as Best Pop Artist at the San Diego Music Awards, she brings dynamic vocals and an interactive set that blends current pop, country favorites, crowd singalongs, and original songs, built to keep the dance floor moving. Among Southern California’s most in-demand live acts, her appearances include major festivals, casino venues, city concert series, Disneyland California Adventure, and performances alongside marquee events around the country. The performance unfolds at this Orange County nightlife destination.

This event features pumpkins, music, and food to enjoy.

From the pages of S. E. Hinton’s landmark novel to the screen version by Francis Ford Coppola, this story reaches the stage as a vibrant new musical. The book is crafted by Adam Rapp with Justin Levine. Music and lyrics come from Jamestown Revival’s Jonathan Clay and Zach Chance together with Tony Award winner Justin Levine, who also oversees music supervision, orchestrations and arrangements. Rick Kuperman and Jeff Kuperman create the choreography, and Tony Award winner Danya Taymor directs. Entertainment Weekly has praised the production for its ability to inspire a new generation.

NBFF’s European Spotlight is planned as a festive evening within the film festival, centered on a special showcase. More information will be announced soon, with further details on the program to follow.

Spend three nights at a 3.5-acre, Santa Fe inspired retreat space in the high desert of Joshua Tree, created for women who have been carrying a lot and are ready to pause and reset. The pace favors presence over productivity. Each day weaves together therapeutic yoga, breathwork, and deeply restful yoga nidra with group life coaching circles. Complementary healing experiences include Reiki and sound healing, along with a guided hike in Joshua Tree National Park and private stargazing. A private chef prepares every meal so participants can fully relax. The villa offers spaces for movement and reflection, including an outdoor yoga pavilion and indoor studio, a saltwater pool and jacuzzi, a contemplative labyrinth, a rooftop patio, and a boulder fire pit beneath wide open desert skies. The retreat is led by Karley, an ICF-certified life coach and 500-hour yoga therapy specialist based in San Diego. Group size is intentionally limited to ensure personal attention and a truly supportive experience.

A Halloween-themed West Coast Swing weekend blends social dancing with trick-or-treat fun, a pro showcase, and a festive costume competition. Hosted by Jordan and Tatiana, the weekend features the famed Scary Strictly, hotel room trick-or-treating, the returning Swingthing Carnival, a Friday night meet and greet, late night dancing, and workshops with top professionals. Competitive highlights include WSDC sanctioned Jack and Jill contests, the All-American Jack and Jill known as Monster Mash, and a special Karaoke Pro Jack and Jill on Sunday. The celebration also includes a costume parade and concludes with the Sunday night Meech'n'Ghosts party.

Rise Against brings its live show to Great Park Live in Irvine, CA, spotlighting a collective approach to music that aims to bring people together through creativity. Fans from the past 25 years were invited into the process, contributing artwork for the band's latest music video releases for Damage Is Done and Ricochet.

Relive the sound of the 90s as 90s Rockshow takes over Ivan’s House for a high-energy celebration of the decade’s alternative and rock anthems. Sing along to hits from Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Green Day, Foo Fighters, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and more, in a tribute to the music that defined a generation.

At Segerstrom Center for the Arts, Yellow Bird Chase transforms a humble storeroom into a playground of imagination. A clumsy maintenance team spots an enchanting yellow bird and launches a spirited pursuit that seems to soar over land, skim across the sea, and sweep through the sky, all without stepping outside. Pirates, monsters, and plenty of slapstick stumbles pop up along the way. This dialogue-free, all-ages production delivers its tale through playful movement and vivid visuals.

At Lido Theatre, Natural Science presents a Rush tribute performed by a three-piece that captures the band’s precision, drive, and playful spirit. Every note is delivered live, highlighting intricate musicianship, soaring vocals, and thunderous grooves with no shortcuts. The trio’s tight chemistry and sense of fun turn the room into a shared celebration for longtime devotees and those just discovering the music. Expect signature hits as well as deeper favorites, played with an intensity that shows why these songs still connect. Many leave smiling, air-drumming, and eager for more.

A single-day clinic at Dog Republic offers gentle, anesthesia-free dental cleanings for dogs and cats. Sessions are designed to freshen breath and leave teeth cleaner, and typically take less than an hour. A veterinary screening and exam are required. Appointment availability is limited, and additional details are provided in the ticketing section.

At Segerstrom Center for the Arts, pianist and composer Jason Moran enters a creative conversation with the music of Duke Ellington. Performing with Pacific Symphony, he brings Ellington’s works into the present, spotlighting their craft, swing, and emotional reach with the sweep of an orchestra. The program treats this repertoire as living and changeable, open to reinvention, expansion, and surprise rather than preserved as a museum piece. Framed as the “Then” of the season, it honors the past as a continuing source of ideas that still shapes American music today.

Now in its second season, Taste of the Arts is a six-night subscription that pairs outstanding live performance with exceptional dining. Each evening begins with a three to four course dinner at a carefully selected nearby restaurant, with plenty of time to enjoy every course before the show. The series ranges across theater, dance, music, and spectacle, so each night offers a fresh experience. This edition features the Broadway course at Segerstrom Hall with The Outsiders, the previous year’s Tony Award winner for Best Musical. Adapted from S. E. Hinton’s seminal novel and Francis Ford Coppola’s iconic film, it explores themes of friendship, family, and belonging. Dinner is at Antonello Ristorante, established in 1979, where traditional recipes meet modern influences. The restaurant presents a classic Northern Italian menu in an elegant, Tuscan-inspired setting with attentive service.

Halloween fun comes to the OC with the Darryls, bringing high-energy vibes to the Elks Lodge. A festive night of lively entertainment sets the scene for a spirited celebration.

The Wayfarer hosts a free live show featuring The (John) Candy and the live debut of Looks Bad Sounds Worse. It marks a return to the stage after more than two years. Exclusive merchandise will be available in limited quantities, including shirts, stickers, and discography CDs Vol. 1 and Vol. 2. The announcement notes there is always a chance it could be the last show.

A Halloween-themed trail challenge at Crystal Cove State Park features 6-hour and 4-hour run options. Participants can look forward to tough climbs, ocean views, and lively ridgeline descents for a festive day on the trails. To celebrate the organizer’s birthday, cake will be served. Runners who have completed Pirate’s Cove are eligible for special discounts through a personalized registration code from the organizer.

Born in 1978 as the Human Race Triathlon, this Newport Beach tradition continues at the same waterfront site and is billed as the longest running triathlon in the world to operate from one location. It also serves as the Cal Tri Events National Championship, with registration typically ranging from 1,500 to 2,000 participants. The venue is Newport Dunes, home to the Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina. Twelve race formats are offered to suit a range of athletes. The Olympic-distance slate includes Triathlon, RunBikeRun, SwimBike, SwimRun, a 1,640-yard swim, and a 10K run. The Sprint-distance slate mirrors those options with Triathlon, RunBikeRun, SwimBike, SwimRun, a 400-yard swim, and a 5K run. In general, swim and run legs follow standard distances, while the bike segment can vary by course. Travel is straightforward, with John Wayne Airport (SNA) situated roughly four miles from both the venue and the Hyatt Regency Newport Beach, the host hotel. Once in town, Orange County attractions are close by, including Disneyland Park, Disney California Adventure Park, the shops and restaurants of Balboa Island, the Balboa Island Ferry, and Newport Beach.

Brentano String Quartet presents a reflective program at Segerstrom Center for the Arts, tracing motifs of loss, introspection, and quiet tension through works by Beethoven and Mozart. Beethoven's F major Quartet, Op. 18 No. 1, from his early period, features a slow movement shaped by the tragic tomb scene in Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. At the program's core is Mozart's D minor Quartet, K. 421, a searching chamber work noted for operatic urgency and striking dramatic power. The program concludes with Beethoven's F major Quartet, Op. 59 No. 1, part of the Razumovsky set, where the composer broadened the quartet's scale and expressive reach. Heard together, these pieces show how the string quartet can illuminate deeply felt emotional landscapes.

Bluey's Big Play arrives at Segerstrom Center for the Arts with the Heeler family in their debut live stage production. The show showcases skillfully built puppets to animate the characters, offering a fresh onstage take on Bluey brought vividly to life.

Tony Award recipient Joaquina Kalukango returns to Samueli Theater, bringing the power, presence, and emotional depth that have made her one of Broadway’s most electrifying artists. Celebrated for her breakthrough in Paradise Square, she showcases a voice that can blaze with gospel fervor, settle into a tender whisper, and reach straight to the soul. This performance highlights a singular artist in full command of her gifts.

Doctor Wu pays tribute to the music of Steely Dan with a 12 piece ensemble from Los Angeles. The group began in 2000 under Grant Saidiner and later welcomed Anthony Egan and Guillermo Ayan. Ticket options include Reserved Table Seating, which provides seats at a table. For this option, arriving about an hour and a half before showtime is recommended, and dinner and drinks are available to purchase in the club throughout the evening. General Admission offers entry to the performance but does not promise a table or a seat. The VIP Booth is a flat fee option for up to six people with booth seating near the front of the stage. For this option, arriving about an hour and a half before showtime is also suggested, and dinner and drinks are available for purchase in the club all evening.

OC Kids Expo is a family-focused gathering that brings together children, parents, educators, community groups, and organizations around learning, creativity, entrepreneurship, and child development. The event features hands-on stations, interactive experiences, and educational activities that nurture thinking, social and emotional growth, and practical life skills in ways that suit different ages. As part of the Kid-Friendly World ecosystem, it blends learning, play, innovation, entrepreneurship, technology, and community involvement in one shared space, giving families the chance to discover opportunities that reach beyond entertainment and emphasize lasting growth and learning. It also serves as a collaborative space for partners, sponsors, and community members to try new ideas, test solutions, and connect directly with families. Instead of a conventional trade show, the focus is on active participation, learning by doing, and collaboration across education, business, research, and community efforts.

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Walk for Hope 2026: Orange County brings the community together at City of Hope Orange County in Irvine for a shared purpose, to put an end to cancer for everyone. Launched in 1997, the effort has raised almost $50 million to support those affected by cancer and to drive City of Hope’s mission forward. This is not just a walk. It is a movement that unites survivors, their families, and supporters to fund research, deliver breakthrough treatments across all cancer types, and expand compassionate patient care. Participants register and create personal fundraising pages, take part in person or join virtually, and often form teams with friends and family to increase their impact. Whether honoring a loved one, celebrating survivorship, or striving for a future without cancer, every step helps move hope forward.

Water for Elephants is presented at Segerstrom Center for the Arts as a fresh musical adaptation of the celebrated novel, brought to life with grand visuals and inventive stagecraft. The production blends showstopping spectacle with genuine emotion. Critics have embraced it, with Time Out New York highlighting its exhilarating energy and The New York Times praising its heart and creativity, designating it a critics’ pick.

An onstage conversation features Ina Garten, the beloved cookbook author and television host widely known as the Barefoot Contessa, giving audiences an opportunity to hear from one of the country's most trusted authorities on home cooking and hospitality.

The MMRF Southern California Walk brings the Team for Cures community together at William R Mason Regional Park to support the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation. Participants walk in solidarity to help speed the search for cures, advance research, and empower people living with multiple myeloma. Each step reflects a shared commitment to a future free of this disease.

Experience Metallica’s music transformed by candlelight in Orange County as The Lido Theater hosts an intimate tribute performed by a string quartet. Across a 60 minute performance, hear classical interpretations of favorites such as One, Enter Sandman, Fade to Black, and Nothing Else Matters. The music is performed by Range Ensemble, a string quartet from Los Angeles. Doors open 45 minutes before the show begins, and late entry is not permitted once the performance starts. Seating is assigned on a first come, first served basis within each zone. The event welcomes ages 8 and up, and anyone under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Please note that balcony access is by stairs only. This tribute concert is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the artist, their estate, or official representatives.

DROC and Ducati Newport Beach host a free Bike Night that is open to all Ducati owners, whether riding a Panigale, Monster, Multistrada, or another model. The gathering focuses on camaraderie and a shared passion for these Italian motorcycles, drawing enthusiasts from Orange County and beyond. Wearing DROC or Ducati gear is encouraged. This month's edition takes place a week earlier than the usual schedule to avoid a conflict with Thanksgiving. Admission is free, and RSVPs are requested only to help gauge attendance.

Explore the Turtle Rock area on a guided outing that welcomes newcomers. Depending on the number of leaders and participants, the group may split into easy and moderate options. Experienced leaders who have spent decades on these trails will shape routes that could circle French Hill, follow the Shady Canyon Trail, or continue toward Bommer Canyon to keep things varied. Bring water and wear light hiking boots. Meet at Turtle Rock Community Park and use the parking lot off Turtle Rock Drive; leaders will be in that lot rather than by the tennis courts. Please, no dogs.

A monthly 80s dance party takes over an O.C. venue with food, a full bar that includes Guinness on tap, and lively weekend crowds. The night pairs throwback hits with music trivia, plus prizes and giveaways. Wearing shades fits the playful theme, and the focus is on keeping the dance floor moving.

Take a peaceful break from the holiday rush with a candlelit concert by members of Pacific Chorale. In the cozy sanctuary of Our Lady Queen of Angels in Newport Beach, Artistic Director Robert Istad leads a program of beloved carols, contemporary choral selections, and quiet moments for reflection. This long-standing Orange County tradition highlights the wonder, warmth, and gentle joy of the Christmas season, welcoming anyone who cherishes beautiful singing, sacred settings, and meaningful holiday customs. Complimentary hot cocoa will be available to ticket holders after the concert.

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The 47th Annual Corona del Mar Christmas Walk features a Beer Garden with a headliner returning for the 17th consecutive year. Attendees can gather with friends, dress for the conditions, and enjoy a festive atmosphere.

The Candlelight series brings a multi-sensory concert bathed in candlelight to Orange County, transforming The Lido Theater into an intimate setting for a strings tribute to the music of Juan Gabriel. A Los Angeles based string quartet, Range Ensemble, is set to perform favorites including Buenos Días Señor Sol, Así Fue, Abrázame Muy Fuerte, La Diferencia, Querida, No Tengo Dinero, Por Qué Me Haces Llorar, Siempre en Mi Mente, Amor Eterno, Pero Qué Necesidad, El Noa Noa, and Caray. The performance runs about 60 minutes, with doors opening 45 minutes beforehand and no late admittance. Recommended for ages 8 and up, and anyone under 16 must attend with an adult. The balcony can be reached only via stairs, and seating within each zone is assigned in order of arrival. This is a tribute presentation and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the artist, the estate, or official representatives.

Candlelight concerts bring a multi-sensory atmosphere to remarkable venues across Orange County, and this edition lights up The Lido Theater with a 90s Unplugged program performed by Range Ensemble, a string quartet from Los Angeles. A tentative set features Everlong by Foo Fighters, Don’t Speak by No Doubt, Zombie by The Cranberries, Ironic by Alanis Morissette, Wonderwall by Oasis, High and Dry by Radiohead, Enter Sandman by Metallica, Under the Bridge by Red Hot Chili Peppers, Fly Away by Lenny Kravitz, Hallelujah by Jeff Buckley, Tears in Heaven by Eric Clapton, and Smells Like Teen Spirit by Nirvana. The concert lasts 60 minutes, doors open 45 minutes before the music begins, and there is no late entry once the performance starts. Guests ages 8 and older are welcome, and anyone under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Seating is assigned on a first come, first served basis within each zone, and the balcony is accessible only by stairs. This is a tribute concert experience that is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by any artist, estate, or official representatives.

Tituss Burgess takes center stage for a solo spotlight in the Samueli Theater at Segerstrom Center for the Arts. With a career defined by wide-ranging credits and many attention-grabbing roles, this appearance keeps the focus squarely on him in a close-up setting.