Well, here are our suggestions for things you can do that won’t break the bank — both during the day and at night. (But if the event is outdoors, you’d better make sure it’s not canceled, since at this writing, rain was forecast.)

Anaheim: So sorry. The countdown to 2026 at the STC GardenWalk has been canceled due to a forecast of inclement weather. anaheimgardenwalk.com/event/33593-countdownto2026

Brea: Have fun counting down at the “Noon Year’s Eve” party at the Brea library, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. All ages. Enjoy a craft, snacks and a balloon drop. 1 Civic Center Circle, Brea. ocpl.libcal.com/event/16062370

Cypress: Celebrate “Noon Year’s Eve” early with Magician Dave Skale at the Cypress library. His family-friendly performance is at 11 a.m. and then stay for the balloon drop at noon. 5331 Orange Ave. Cypress. ocpl.libcal.com/event/15787730

Garden Grove: Celebrate “Noon Year’s Eve” early and enjoy a special storytime, followed by a fun craft at the Chapman branch of the Garden Grove library. Then count down together and ring in the “noon” year with a balloon drop at 12 p.m.  9182 Chapman Ave. Garden Grove. ocpl.libcal.com/event/15843994

Ladera Ranch: Head over to the family-friendly “Noon Year’s Eve” with other families at the Ladera Ranch branch library. 11:30-12:30. Crafts, fun and a balloon drop at noon. 29551 Sienna Parkway, Ladera Ranch. ocpl.libcal.com/event/15792817

Lake Forest: Celebrate “Noon Year’s Eve” early with other families at the El Toro branch library. 11:30-12:30. Crafts, fun and a balloon drop at noon. 24672 Raymond Way, Lake Forest. ocpl.libcal.com/event/15711617

Long Beach: Enjoy this family “Noon Year” celebration from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the 2nd & PCH mall. There will be games, fun and giveaways at their outdoor Kids Club (weather permitting.) Check in between 10-11:15 a.m. and enjoy crafts, face painting, bingo and a dance party before a countdown to “noon year” with bubbles. Mickey and Minnie are rumored to be there. 6400 Pacific Coast Highway, Long Beach. 2ndandpch.com/portfolio/kids-club-noon-year-bubble-show-party/

Long Beach: Head over to Shoreline Village for a free dance party, followed by fireworks at midnight. DJ Rome is scheduled to play dance music from 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. There’s a self-serve photo booth from 9 p.m. to midnight near Louisiana Charlies. Get there early, rideshare or expect a hunt for nearby parking. And then enjoy the fireworks show near the Queen Mary. 429 Shoreline Village Drive. facebook.com/events/830685192682976

Long Beach: The Long Beach Public Library is holding a “Noon New Year’s Eve Party” at several locations. Enjoy a dance party, crafts, balloon drop at noon and more.  a fun craft, a dance party and more. Hours vary but are generally from 11 a.m. until 12:30 p.m.. Check out these locations: Billie Jean King Main Library. 200 W. Broadway; Mark Twain Neighborhood Library, 1401 E. Anaheim St.; Harte Neighborhood Library, 1595 W. Willow St. longbeach.gov/library/events/

Los Alamitos/Rossmoor. Celebrate “Noon Year’s Eve” with other families at the Los Alamitos branch library. 11:30-12:30. Crafts, fun and a balloon drop at noon. 12700 Montecito, Seal Beach  ocpl.libcal.com/event/15803407

Los Angeles: Organizers are promising a huge event at Gloria Molina Grand Park downtown from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. including two stages with live music, a spectacular City Hall light show and interactive art installations. Live performances by Ruby Ibarra, Ceci Bastida, DJ Wayne Williams, Bardo and more. Food trucks will be there. Parking is $10 or ride the Metro. Gloria Molina Grand Park, 200 North Grand Ave. Los Angeles. RSVPs are not mandatory but requested at grandparkla.org/nyela

Los Angeles: Don’t want to drink? Enjoy this party sponsored by Artists In Recovery from 7-11:59 p.m. It includes an open AA meeting (all welcome to attend), live music, games, food and drinks. Even a guitar raffle. At the C.A.P.O. center, 7946 W 3rd St. Los Angeles.

Marina del Rey: Enjoy the countdown at this Glow Party at Burton Chace park, including fireworks at midnight (Organizers say rain or shine.) Plans include music, magic shows, face painting, stilt walkers, fairies, robots, a giant LED screen showing the ball drop from Times Square and more. Two fireworks shows, at 8:50 p.m. and 11:59 p.m. shot from the south jetty. The event is free but parking is paid. Plan to get there early because of traffic and parking. 13650 Mindanao Way, Marina del Rey. Check the website for parking locations. beaches.lacounty.gov/nye2025/

Redlands: This town was built on citrus, so head out for the annual NYE Orange Drop from 6 to 9 p.m. and celebrate the East Coast countdown. The countdown starts at 8:45 p.m. Music, live performances, kid zone, confetti cannons, food vendors and more. On Citrus Avenue between 6th and 8th streets. redlandschamber.org/orangedrop/

Rowland Heights: The countdown to 2026 starts at 5 p.m. at the STC Rowland Legacy (formerly the Rowland Ranch Plaza). Festivies include a dance party with live music and DJs, a Happy Market with food and shopping, giveaways and more.  There’s a community countdown at midnight. The evening runs until 1 a.m. STC Rowland Legacy, 18991 Colima Road, Rowland Heights. Reserve a free ticket online: eventbrite.com/e/ocla-countdown-to-2026-stc-rowland-legacy-tickets-1963611325333

San Juan Capistrano: Have a family-friendly “Noon Year’s Eve” party with other families at the library. 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.. Crafts, fun and a balloon drop at noon. 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. ocpl.libcal.com/event/15784435

Seal Beach: Enjoy “Noon Year’s Eve” eat the Seal Beach branch library. 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Dancing, crafts, fun and a balloon drop at noon. 707 Electric Ave. Seal Beach. ocpl.libcal.com/event/15586083

Stanton: Celebrate “Noon Year’s Eve” eat the Stanton branch library. 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Crafts, snacks, fun and a balloon drop at noon.7850 Katella Ave. Stanton ocpl.libcal.com/event/15737660

Temecula: Yes, it’s time for the annual Temecula Grape Drop festivities, from 6 to 10 p.m. It’s family friendly with an East Coast countdown at 9 p.m. and a drone show. Live entertainment, kid activities, food vendors and more. Civic Center, 41000 Main St., Temecula temeculaca.gov/1425/Holiday-Fun

Tustin: Start the new year off at the Tustin library …. at noon! Enjoy a balloon drop and fun crafts at the “Noon Year Eve” celebration from 11 a.m. to noon. 345 E. Main St., Tustin. ocpl.libcal.com/event/15881080

Westminster: Start early by celebrating “Noon Year’s Eve” early at the Westminster branch library. This is family friendly. 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Crafts, fun and a balloon drop at noon. 8180 13th St. Westminster. ocpl.libcal.com/event/15798822

UPDATE: An earlier version of this story listed First Night in Fullerton, but organizers say the event has been canceled because of safety concerns about inclement weather.

The Centurions have defeated three teams ranked in the Orange County Top 25 since Dec. 12. They beat Orange Lutheran 75-68 in the North Orange County Championships tournament before nonleague wins over San Clemente 57-50 and Fairmont Prep 59-49.

This week’s county rankings have Fairmont Prep at No. 8, Orange Lutheran at No. 11 and San Clemente at No. 18. Cypress is No. 6, having moved up from No. 17 last week.

Cypress beat Fairmont Prep without All-County point guard Ryan Gov, who was out because of a sprained ankle.

Centurions 6-7 senior forward Gavin Kroll scored 25 points and Emmanuel Igbekoyi, also a 6-7 senior forward, scored 22 in the win over Orange Lutheran.

Kroll scored 18 points with four 3-point baskets against San Clemente. He scored 18 points with four 3s and five blocked shots in the win over Fairmont Prep.

“Kroll’s been awesome,” Cypress coach Derek Mitchell said. “His offense overshadows how good his defense was last week, especially against David Abisogun of Fairmont.”

Abisogun, among Orange County’s top 10 players and a Texas State, signee, was limited to 12 points against Cypress.

Senior guard Ethan Mai took over the on-court leadership duties in Gov’s absence.

Mitchell said Gov, who committed to Azusa Pacific University this month, might play against Corona del Mar on Tuesday in the Orange County North/South Challenge at Tesoro High.

NORTH/SOUTH CHALLENGE

The Orange County North/South Challenge is Tuesday at Tesoro.

The schedule (including teams’ Orange County ranking): El Toro vs. Northwood, 9 a.m.; Dana Hills vs. Huntington Beach, 10:30 a.m.; Trabuco Hills vs. No. 21 Fountain Valley, noon; San Juan Hills vs. Tustin, 1:30 p.m.; No. 18 San Clemente vs. No. 23 Woodbridge, 3 p.m.; No. 12 Tesoro vs. Irvine, 4:30 p.m.; No. 4 Corona del Mar vs. No. 6 Cypress, 6 p.m.; No. 2 Crean Lutheran vs. No. 7 Los Alamitos, 7:30 p.m.

Admission is $12 for adults, $5 for students and those of ages 5-12. Free admission is available for children under 5 years old.

The North/South Challenge is dedicated to the late Tim O’Brien, who coached at a few schools in Orange County, including leading Estancia to a state championship in 1991. O’Brien died of cancer in 2020.

NOTES

The sit-out period for transfers who did not make a change of address upon transferring ends Friday. Many teams will improve. Among them is Fairmont Prep, where the Huskies will add 6-2 guard Jordan Ceballos, who showed much promise last season as a freshman at Crean Lutheran, and 6-8 senior forward Eric Gong from St. John Bosco. …

La Habra junior guard Javier Nash is out for the remainder of the season because of torn knee cartilage. He was a key starter for the Highlanders. …

The Charlie Wilkins Memorial Tournament is underway at Westminster High. Orange County teams in that one are Saddleback, Tarbut V’Torah, University and host school Westminster. …

Post-Christmas tournaments in Orange County include the Estancia Coast Classic at Estancia High and the Ringo Bossenmeyer/Tustin Holiday Classic at Tustin High; the latter is named for longtime Tustin coach Ringo Bossenmeyer who retired from coaching after the 2024-25 season. The Estancia tournament includes county teams Marina, Newport Harbor, San Clemente, Western and Woodbridge. The Tustin tournament includes county teams Beckman, Servite, Tesoro and Tustin. …

Many O.C. teams are playing after Christmas in The Classic at Damien tournament. The tournament has nine divisions. Crean Lutheran is in the top division, the Platinum Division.

The Friends of the Rose, a nonprofit of about 20 volunteers, has managed the 415-seat theater since it opened its doors in 2006 between 15th Street and All American Way. The theater has offered four musicals a year for nearly two decades.

The theater also features an event space, an outdoor patio and a complete kitchen, which the nonprofit oversees bookings for.

But in November, the council decided not to extend the nonprofit’s lease on the space, with thoughts of potentially turning the theater into a city-run cultural center that would also earn Westminster revenue. But no immediate new use was identified and the building was expected to sit fallow for some period of time.

The nonprofit’s lease was set to end on Dec. 31. A Rose Tribute Concert was scheduled for Dec. 30 and the theater company’s last performance of its current show, “Robin Hood and the White Arrow: The Holiday Feast of Stephen,” was Dec. 19.

But after much community pushback, Mayor Chi Charlie Nguyen requested to hold a Dec. 18 special meeting to consider reversing the decision. It was Nguyen who originally sought to end the nonprofit’s lease and to turn the theater into a cultural center that community members could apply to operate or become vendors within.

“I am the mayor of the city of Westminster and I represent each and every resident here,” Nguyen said about rethinking the decision to close the theater. “That’s why I am doing what I’m doing.”

The council voted 4-0, with Councilmember Amy Phan West absent, to extend for six months the Friends of the Rose’s contract to operate the theater.

And further extensions beyond June could be requested if future plans for that space aren’t clear by that time.

The nonprofit will now pay $5,000 per month toward the theater’s maintenance and utilities, which city officials estimated at $50,000 annually,

“We extend our sincere appreciation to the mayor, members of the Westminster City Council, and city staff for taking the time to revisit this matter and for engaging in thoughtful discussion regarding the ongoing operational management of the Rose Center Theater,” the nonprofit said in a statement on its website. 

“We are equally grateful to the many patrons, artists, families, educators, renters, and supporters who made their voices heard with clarity and care,” the group said. “Your advocacy continues to affirm the value of this space and the vital role it plays in shaping lives and building community.”

The group also invited the community to the 20th Anniversary Celebration: The Rose Tribute Concert on Dec. 30, “an evening of music, memory, and gratitude honoring the legacy of this stage and the community that continues to bring it to life.”

Information: rosecentertheater.com

The collision occurred about 2 a.m. March 8 at Beach Boulevard and McFadden Avenue, according to police. Abdallah Hussein Ali Eid ran from the crash, but police found him in the area with help from multiple witnesses, police said.

Eid of Westminster pleaded guilty Nov. 19 to vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated without gross negligence, driving under the influence of alcohol causing injury, driving under the influence of alcohol with a blood-alcohol level above the legal limit of 0.08% or more causing injury, driving under the influence of alcohol and a drug while causing injury, hit and run with permanent and serious injury, and failing to stop at an accident with a hit-and-run with death, all felonies.

Eid also admitted a sentencing enhancement for fleeing the scene of a vehicular manslaughter.

Eid was given credit for 568 days behind bars.

The victim was identified as 38-year-old Nathan Philip Perreault of Huntington Beach.

That program is “fitting for the occasion,” one of the musical’s creators Tim Nelson said. “It’s all about hope and the future and how Robin and his men turn a very distraught England into a very hopeful place.”

“And so that kind of speaks, I think, to where we are at,” said Nelson, who, as the resident theater company’s managing artistic director, dedicates long hours each week to roles such as composer, lyricist and program director.

Come Dec. 31, the Rose Center Theater in Westminster will undergo a change of management.

The theater was built in 2006 between 15th Street and All American Way to increase area residents’ access to art and theater. It has since hosted guests such as Arnold Schwarzenegger and Hilary Clinton and housed the Vietnamese American Philharmonic.

The Friends of the Rose Center, a nonprofit of about 20 volunteers organized in 1999, has managed the space since its inception. It’s been offering four musicals a year.

The theater also features an event space, an outdoor patio and a complete kitchen, which the nonprofit oversaw bookings for.

But in the new year, the city will assume responsibility for all of these amenities, and the Rose Center Theater will be closed to the public until further notice, or until it is reborn into what some Westminster City councilmembers hope will be a cultural center.

What does a change in management entail?

A name-change might be in the cards, but aside from that, the physical theater will probably remain the same, Mayor Chi Charlie Nguyen said.

The big difference, he said, will lie in the finances.

Since February, the Friends of the Rose Center and the city had been engaged in contract negotiations. In May, the city commissioned Los Angeles-based theater consulting firm TheaterDNA to conduct a study evaluating the center’s future.

That study recommended that the nonprofit remain as the theater’s managing entity.

But during a Nov. 12 meeting, Westminster councilmembers voted 3-1-1, with Councilmember Carlos Manzo opposed and Councilmember Amy Phan West abstaining, to forgo a staff recommendation for a one-year extension to the current management agreement, which would have taken it to June 30, with the option to add an additional three months.

Per the terms of that extension, the Friends of the Rose Center would have had to pay a monthly 5% venue fee to cover operational costs.

“For the nonprofit organization managing it, all they are responsible for is the cleanup after use. We have to pay for the electricity, the water — everything. I don’t think it’s fair,” said Nguyen, who instead supported not extending the leasing agreement and halting the nonprofit’s productions.

Estimates by city staff say Westminster currently pays around $50,000 annually to cover the theater’s expenses.

“This has been going on for the last 20 years,” Nguyen said. “We are not going to put out any more money.”

Manzo agreed that the city is “strapped for cash.” But aside from that assessment, he said he doesn’t understand his colleagues’ approach.

“My colleagues and I were told that this would take a long time,” Manzo said of the process for soliciting a new use for the space that he anticipates will take up the better part of a year. “So why have an empty theater?”

“The city does not own anything in there. We don’t own any of the props. So when they leave, they’re taking everything with them,” Manzo said. “Where are we going to get the funding to do anything? I don’t get the logic behind it.”

But Nguyen said it’s about giving community members an “equal pass” to use the theater.

“They can come in and apply to be a vendor or to operate this venue,” he said, adding that a cultural center would service the county’s diverse population. And in turn, he said, the city would see some revenue.

Nguyen said the city hasn’t begun the process of taking project proposals. And plans for a cultural center aren’t set in stone.

For now, Nelson said he’s focusing on delivering “Robin Hood and the White Arrow” to its final viewers — “really a tribute to everyone who worked hard to get it up and running to begin with.”

The theater company will also hold a “final goodbye,” a one-night concert on Dec. 30.

“I think the community has been very supportive,” Nelson said. “And it’s just been a nice time.”

Swift, who owns a consulting business, is now vying for California’s 70th Assembly District, an Orange County district that includes communities in Fountain Valley, Garden Grove, Los Alamitos and Westminster. It’s represented now by Assemblymember Tri Ta, R-Westminster, who is running for reelection next year.

“Nothing would make me happier than to be able to serve in my own community,” said Swift, noting she’s lived in the area for more than 20 years.  

Swift is a longtime advocate for foster youth and domestic violence victims, and she said that would be her focus in the legislature as well. She used to work for a nonprofit that advocated for children in foster care, particularly those who were aging out of the system, before pandemic-related budget cuts eliminated her position.

And Swift said she is herself a survivor of domestic violence in her past, crediting the Westminster Police Department with providing help when she needed it.

The Rossmoor resident had earlier launched a bid for a congressional district that included communities in eastern Orange County as well as some in Riverside and San Bernardino counties, represented now by Rep. Young Kim, R-Anaheim Hills.

But the redistricting ballot measure California voters passed last month redrew the district boundaries a bit, setting up a battle between Kim and fellow Republican incumbent Rep. Ken Calvert, as well as a few other Democratic and independent candidates.

Swift said she supported Proposition 50, but the shifting of California’s 40th Congressional District put her home too far outside of the district for her to feel she could truly represent the community.

“I believe the people in the new 40th (District), they need someone who is there,” Swift said of her decision to focus on a legislative seat closer to home.

Swift’s Los Angeles-based firm offers consulting services and keynote presentations that “inspire resilience, self-determination and confidence, empowering workgroups, sales teams and executive leaders alike to excel in dynamic environments,” according to its website.

She said she views herself more as a public servant than a politician, should she be elected to the Assembly.

“I plan to and will be completely present in listening to the concerns of the community,” said Swift. “I want people to know that my goal has always been throughout my life of service to be that voice to the voiceless and providing access and resources to people who are often unheard and unseen.”

In the Assembly, Ta serves on the lower chamber’s Appropriations Committee and is vice chair of the Local Government Committee as well as the Revenue and Taxation Committee. A former Westminster Council member, Ta was first elected to represent the district that includes Little Saigon in 2022.

Registered Democrats make up 35.73% of voters in the 70th Assembly District, according to the latest tally from the secretary of state’s office, while Republicans account for 33.78% and 24.58% are no party preference.

Ta beat Democrat Jimmy Pham in his reelection bid last year by nearly 10 percentage points.

Panettone, the high-rise Milanese sweet bread with a tender, golden crumb and often studded with pearl sugar or chocolate and bejeweled with dried fruits and candied citrus, is synonymous with the Christmas season. This leavened loaf, which delightfully teeters into cake territory, has turned into something of a Moby Dick for many an American baker, a holiday challenge that allows them to earn their stripes.

Famed Bay Area pastry chef Roy Shvartzapel, who’s noted for having what many consider the best panettone in the United States, called it “the mountaintop of baking.“

Requiring time, laser-like attention to detail and a counter-intuitive upside-down cooling process to prevent the airy dough from collapsing under its own heft, it’s a demanding creation most dedicated bakers take on at some point in their careers. And while many qualities of the bread can be found at a range of shops, from Trader Joe’s to Claro’s Italian Market, panettone can be a transcended experience when done well — the kind of experience two bakers are serving up in Orange County.

61 Hundred Bread

For Karlo Evaristo, baker and owner of 61 Hundred Bread, panettone has become, as he admits, an “obsession.” So much so that his dedication led him to fly to Italy to learn the craft firsthand.

He’s now hooked on the process, which he described as “pretty finnicky.” A single loaf ($65) requires a minimum of four days of work. The foundation is his lievito madre, the natural starter he cultivates, which must be in a perfect state. “It has to be in a certain state or it will just fall apart,” he said. This delicate balance is so crucial, in part, because the bread is so rich. “There’s so much fat in it, there are so many yolks and butter in it,” he noted. He goes on to add that the process is so detailed that “I don’t think I would have figured it out if I didn’t have somebody to teach me.”

The transcendental quality of his final product, a 900-gram loaf with three kinds of chocolate (white, caramelized, semi-sweet), has made his effort worthwhile. As he noted, panettone is “all i currently think about.” He plans on baking 45 to 60 leaves weekly for the holiday season. (He also suggested that he might bake these breads outside the holiday season, saying, “I think I’m going to do this indefinitely, because I’m pretty hooked.”)

Find it: 728 Poinsettia St., Santa Ana

Origin Baking Co.

For Brenden Wong of Origin Baking Company, this year marks his sixth holiday season “taking on the Mt. Everest of baking,” he noted on social media. Wong echoes the sentiment of panettone being the ultimate test, stressing that his all-natural, long-fermented bread “demands patience, precision and a lot of heart.”

ALSO READ: Are these the best maple bars in Orange County?

Wong’s panettone ($55) achieves its signature texture using his established sourdough culture for leavening. Each loaf is intensely rich and features top-notch ingredients like grass-fed butter, egg yolks and vanilla bean. His loaves are studded with candied orange peel and raisins plumped in rum. The flavor is brightened with the assistance of both lemon and orange zest. Finishing the sweet bread is an elegant, crunchy almond macaron glaze.

Describing his crafted loaves as “a true labor of love,” Wong will produce “very limited batches” each week throughout the holiday season. Preorders are now open at Origin Baking Company, with a small amount available at Wong’s December pop-ups. (Direct message Wong @origin_baking_co for pop-up details; visit originbakingco.com for preorder.)

Find it: 11901 Westminster Ave., Garden Grove

There are several ice skating rinks throughout Los Angeles, Orange County, and the Inland Empire that welcome skaters of all ages and levels. Some will even offer free skating lessons for those looking to build confidence and technique. This season, some ice skating rinks will also feature themed nights with traditional Christmas movies playing during skating sessions, along with special holiday shows open to the public to spectate or perform.

Most facilities offer skate rentals and other essentials, but if it’s your first time, it doesn’t hurt to bring some warm layers, such as athletic pants, a jacket, gloves, and a small hand towel to dry your blades when needed. The schedules for each ice skating rink vary, with most offering public open sessions. If you’re more advanced on the ice, there are also a few locations that offer freestyle sessions where skaters and dancers can practice spins and other competitive techniques.

Be sure to visit each facility’s website for admission pricing and the most up-to-date schedule and hours. Here are 10 ice skating rinks to check out in Southern California.

Holiday Ice Rink in Downtown LA

The Holiday Ice Rink at Pershing Square is a winter-season treat for those who want to celebrate the holidays on ice. The 7,200-square-foot rink gives pros and beginners a chance to skate together in an outdoor setting. On Thursdays, DJs specialize in throwback hits and EDM, and on Sundays, skaters can enjoy classical music for a more elegant experience. Locker rental, skate helpers, gloves and socks are available for purchase and rent.

When: Noon- 10 p.m. daily. Nov. 20 through Jan. 11.

Where: 532 South Olive St., Los Angeles.

Information: holidayicerinkdowntownla.com.

LA Kings Holiday Ice at L.A. LIVE!

The annual LA Kings Holiday Ice at L.A. LIVE! is back for the holiday season for a limited time. Guests hanging with friends, out for a Los Angeles Kings or Los Angeles Lakers game, looking for a romantic date night, or attending a concert can stroll around a massive Christmas tree for daily sessions. General admission tickets are available only on-site at the ice rink box office during operating hours. Check the website for the best parking location for your night out.

When: 5:30- 6 p.m., 7-8:30 p.m., 9-10:30 p.m., and 11 p.m.-12:30 a.m. daily through Jan. 10. The rink will close at 9:30 p.m. on Christmas Eve.

Where: 800 W. Olympic Blvd., Los Angeles.

Information: lalive.com.

Ice at Santa Monica

Ice at Santa Monica is back in its 17th year and changing up the programming a bit from years past. The ice rink is hosting theme nights sponsored by Disney+ and Hulu on select Tuesdays, with some nights featuring movies to lead the theme. Skate and movie nights will feature showings of “A Very Jonas Christmas Movie,” “Die Hard,” “Home Alone,” and “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas.” Theme nights, without films playing, will encourage skaters to channel their inner “Percy Jackson and the Olympians” and “Gilmore Girls,” and to show their love for their favorite superheroes and sports teams. There will be music-themed nights for ’90s/’00s hits and one on Saturday, Dec. 13, to celebrate Taylor Swift’s birthday.

When: Noon-10 p.m. daily.

Where: Downtown Santa Monica, 1324 5th St., Santa Monica.

Information: iceatsantamonica.com.

Pasadena Ice Skating Center

The Pasadena Ice Skating Center offers daily public skating sessions, but tickets can only be purchased in person. The center requires in-person admission only and requires all skaters to follow the public session guidelines posted at the rink, with each session monitored by rink staff. Walkers are available free of charge on a first-come basis, but are only for beginner toddler skaters whose waist height is not more than 26” with skates on.

When: 1-3 p.m. Mondays and Tuesdays, 11:15 a.m.-12:45 p.m. and 1-5 p.m. Wednesdays, 11:15 a.m.-12:45 p.m. and 1-5 p.m. on Thursdays,  Fridays, 11:15 a.m.-12:45 p.m., 1-5 p.m.; 8-10 p.m. Saturdays, and 2-4 p.m. Sundays.

Where: 300 E Green St., Pasadena.

Information: skatepasadena.com.

LA Kings Ice at Pickwick Gardens

The Burbank facility has been around since 1961, offering several all-ages ice-related activities, including public skating, freestyle sessions, private lessons, hockey, and more. What was once known as Pickwick Gardens became LA Kings Ice at Pickwick Gardens in 2019, after the Los Angeles Kings and American Sports Entertainment Company partnered with the Stavert family, who had owned and operated the original location for over 50 years. The NHL-sized arena features music to skate to, a shop for equipment, a lounge with Wi-Fi, LED TVs, and a snack bar with an arcade.

When: 3-4:30 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, 2:30-4 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6-7:30 p.m. Saturdays and 3:45-5:15 p.m. Sundays.

Where: 1001 W Riverside Drive, Burbank.

Information: lakingsicepickwick.com.

Winterfest OC

The OC Fair & Event Center is hosting Winter Fest in Costa Mesa, featuring ice skating among several winter wonderland activities. Visitors can enjoy an 8,000-square-foot real snow play area, a 150-foot ice tubing slide, a forest of lights, an interactive light show, live entertainment, carnival attractions, bounce houses, holiday-themed mini golf, train rides, and meet-and-greets with Santa Claus, Yowie the Yeti, Ice Princess, Jack Frost, Bear Snow, and Snow Flake.

When: 5-10 p.m. on select weekdays, 4-11 pm. Saturday and 4-10 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 28- Jan. 4.

Where: 88 Fair Dr., Costa Mesa.

Information: winterfestoc.com.

The Rinks Anaheim

The Rinks in Anaheim has been open for 30 years and offers public ice skating at several locations, including Lakewood, Yorba Linda, Corona, and more. Guests of all ages can skate at Anaheim Ice during its daily public ice skating sessions on both its NHL- and Olympic-sized surfaces. The Rinks have over 1,000 pairs of professionally maintained hockey and figure skates available for rent. It offers skate mates for new skaters or those who may need a little extra assistance on the rink. Freestyle sessions are open to singles, free skating, pairs skating, or dance only. All levels of skaters are invited to practice their double jumps and flying spins during freestyle sessions. The Rinks also offers skating lessons for all ages.

When: 6 a.m.-midnight daily.

Where: 300 W Lincoln Ave., Anaheim

Information: anaheimice.therinks.com.

Great Park Ice

This facility, under the same ownership as The Rinks in Anaheim, offers everything the Anaheim location does, including equipment rentals, skate mates, freestyle, and public sessions. What makes this ice skating facility a standout location is its restaurant and bar, which offers wines, flatbread pizzas, street tacos, loaded nachos, and other tasty, shareable entrees perfect for a night out.

When: 6 a.m.- 11 p.m. daily.

Where: 888 Ridge Valley, Irvine.

Information: greatparkice.com.

Aliso Viejo Ice Palace

Aliso Viejo Ice Palace features lively music to set the mood for both beginners and seasoned skaters. Public skating sessions are open to everyone, and on the first Saturday of every month, the ice palace offers a free skating trial class. There is also a new class in the programming of the new adult skills clinic on Saturdays, where skaters can work with instructors to improve their skills and socialize.

When: 2:15-4:45 p.m. Monday and Tuesday; 2:15 p.m.-4:15 p.m. Wednesday; 2:15-3:30 p.m. Thursday; 7:30-9:30 p.m. Friday; 12:45-2:45 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

Where: 9 Journey, Aliso Viejo.

Information: avicepalace.com.

Ice Realm- Westminster

Ice Realm Westminster reopened Nov. 5 after a year-long renovation that ushered in a new restaurant and lounge with a full menu of food and beverages, a fitness gym and pro shop for players and guests, upgraded facilities and ice systems for a better skating experience. On Saturdays, Ice Realm offers free hockey and learn-to-skate sessions, including programs in partnership with USA Hockey, which provides free gear to participants and figure skating instructors who help newcomers get started. Public skating sessions are held regularly, with an updated schedule posted each month on its website, which includes seasonal-themed nights such as Thanksgiving Skate and Ugly Sweater Night.

When: 7 a.m.-10 p.m. daily.

Where: 13071 Springdale St., Westminster.

Information: icerealmwestminster.com.

Icetown Riverside

Icetown Riverside offers free ice skating for first-time skaters ages 3-15 with registration on their website. For the December holidays, skaters of all levels are invited to register for an in-house competition to perform holiday-themed routines, which will be judged in categories such as “Best performance,” “Most Artistic,” “Most Creative,” and “Most Festive.” All skaters who participate will receive an award. Spectator admission is free. Couples in the competition are only required to pay one entry fee of $85. All competitors must register by Dec. 1.

When: 2-10 p.m. Tuesday, 2- 8 p.m. Wednesday, 2-10 p.m. Thursday, 2:45–4:45 p.m. and 7:45–9:45 p.m. Friday,1:45–3:45 p.m. and 7:45–9:45 Saturday, Sunday, 1-3 p.m.

Where: 10540 Magnolia Ave. A, Riverside.

Information: icetownriverside.com.

Center Ice Skating Arena

The Ontario Center Ice Arena features a single NHL-sized sheet of ice measuring 85 x 200 feet. It offers a variety of programs, including public skating, figure skating, and hockey teams and leagues. The Center Ice Arena is available to rent for both large and small private events, and the facility provides figure and hockey rental skates for the public, as well as a full-service pro shop for any equipment guests want to take home. A snack bar is also available for small bites.

When: Noon-5 p.m. Monday- Saturday.

Where: S Plum Ave., Ontario.

Information: ontariocenterice.com.

Orange County residents can keep busy during December with a whole host of celebrations of the season, and there are so many planned appearances by Santa Claus, it is better not to question the logistics.

In the coming weeks, cities will be lighting their community trees in events full of fun for residents, boats decked out in lights will cruise in beloved parades at the coast and on dry land and you’ll have your pick of Nutcracker performances and sing-alongs.

We have pulled together the information you need to enjoy all of these events, and dozens more, from one end of the county to the other. You are sure to find some fun things to do with your family and friends to share the yuletide spirit.

And in a touch of holiday magic, most of the events on this list are free or at little cost.

So fill your calendar and happy holidays from us to you.

ALISO VIEJO

All is Bright Holiday Celebration: Usher in the holiday season with this annual event from 5 to 8 p.m. on Dec. 4 in the Aliso Viejo Town Center Fountain & Amphitheater.  There will be train rides, crafts, entertainment and snow will fall. Santa will also help light the 22-foot Christmas tree. Information: cityofalisoviejo.com

ANAHEIM

West holiday: The West Anaheim Organization is hosting the annual Christmas tree lighting from 5 to 8 p.m. on Dec. 5, featuring photos with Santa Claus, crafts, holiday music and more. At Twila Reid Park, 3100 W. Orange Ave.

Holiday party: The lighting of a 50-foot Christmas tree will cap a day of free holiday fun Dec. 7 at Center Street Promenade in downtown Anaheim during the annual tree lighting and holiday village community event. Starting at noon, there will be pictures with Santa, shopping, entertainment, snow to play in and other activities for families. The tree lighting starts at 6 p.m. Information: DowntownAnaheim.com

Family festival: The Anaheim Hills Festival shopping center is planning a free “holiday spectacular” from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Dec. 13 with fun events for families such as photos with Santa Claus and face painting. Information: anaheimhillsfestival.com

On stage: The Chance Theater will stage the “Fancy Nancy Splendiferous Christmas” musical Dec. 5-21, with photos and autographs after each performance. “Scrooge! The Musical” will be performed from Nov. 28 to Dec. 21. For showtimes and box office: ChanceTheater.com

“The Nutcracker”: Anaheim Ballet will celebrate its annual performance of “The Nutcracker” with shows at 7 p.m. on Nov. 28 and 29 and 2 p.m. on Nov. 29 at the City National Grove of Anaheim. Ticketing and information: anaheimballet.org

Community brunch: The annual holiday brunch started by K&A Cafe and Catering returns to West Center Street Promenade in downtown Anaheim on Dec. 24. There will be a brunch to feed families and anyone who might need some extra help during the holidays. In addition to food, there will be activities for families, entertainment and a visit from Santa Claus with gifts. The brunch will last from 9 a.m. to noon. There are a variety of ways to help out. Information: Facebook.com/KAdowntowncafe

BREA

Holiday scholars: The Brea Glenbrook Women’s Club will raise money for its scholarship fund and other charitable activities with its 55th annual holiday boutique on Dec. 6. Crafts and gifts will be sold by numerous vendors from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; a $1 admission is requested at the gate, 1821 E. Greenbriar Lane, for the fundraiser. Information: breaglenbrookclub.com

Tree lighting: The annual tree lighting at the Civic & Cultural Center will occur at 6:30 p.m. Dec. 4. Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus will stop by to greet folks and take photos. Local schoolchildren will entertain. Admission is free, though photos with Santa will cost a fee.  Information: ci.brea.ca.us

Christmas with the Alleycats: The Alleycats return to the Curtis Theater with their doo-wop styling of Christmas classics for shows at 8 p.m. Nov. 28 and Nov. 29 and 3 p.m. Nov. 29 and 30. General admission is $40. Information: curtistheatre.com

Movie under the stars: The city will be hosting a holiday screening of “The Santa Clause” at 7 p.m. in City Hall Park. Admission is free; blankets and beach chairs are recommended.

Live theater: The Curtis Theatre and STAGEStheatre are presenting “It’s a Wonderful Life” as a live radio play from Dec. 18 to 21. General admission tickets are $32. Information and tickets: CurtisTheatre.com

BUENA PARK

Candy Caneland and Craft Faire: This free, family-friendly winter celebration will run 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Dec. 13. Activities include a snow slide, a visit from Santa, entertainment and more for families. Inside, there will be more artisan craft vendors for shopping at Ehlers Community Center, 8150 Knott Ave. Information: buenapark.com

Christmas tree: Santa Claus will be on hand for the city’s annual Christmas tree-lighting celebration at 6 p.m. Dec. 5 at City Hall, 6650 Beach Blvd. There will be entertainment, activities for kids and a photo area. Bring an unwrapped toy for donation to children in need. Information: buenapark.com

CORONA DEL MAR

Christmas Walk: The annual Christmas Walk in the Corona Del Mar Business District marks its 46th year.  It will feature entertainment by more than 17 local bands, food, children’s activities, a beer and wine garden, unique vendor gifts and more from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 7. Information: cdmchamber.com

COSTA MESA

Doghouse: The city’s beloved Snoopy House display will be open from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. nightly Dec. 12-19 next to City Hall. Santa will make a special visit and take photographs with families starting at 6 p.m. each night. There will also be nightly light displays and stage performances. On the weekend, there will be train rides, guest performances and special play areas. Information: costamesaca.gov

Winter Fest OC: The fairgrounds become a winter wonderland for the holidays with Winter Fest OC. Activities include a snow play area, ice tubing down a 150-foot slide, Polar Putt-Putt, a nightly tree lighting with entertainment, meet-and-greets and more. Winter Fest is open on select dates from Nov. 28 to Jan. 4 at the OC Fair & Event Center. Information and ticket prices: winterfestoc.com

‘A Christmas Carol’: South Coast Repertory will present its 45th anniversary production of Charles Dickens’ classic holiday story.  Various showtimes Nov. 29 through Dec. 28. Richard Doyle will once again return  in the role of Ebenezer Scrooge. Information: scr.org

CYPRESS

Holiday sing: The city will host a festive Holiday Sing and Tree Lighting event for the community at 6 p.m. on Dec. 2 at the Civic Center Green Corner, which is at Orange Avenue and Grindlay Street. There will be school performances, activities, train rides and a visit by Santa Claus. Chairs and blankets are encouraged. Information: cypressca.org

DANA POINT

Santa on the go: The city’s Jolly Trolley will take Santa on a tour of the community on Dec. 6 to distribute pre-packaged treats to children 12 and younger. Children can also bring a letter for Santa that will be collected and if they include a mailing address, Santa will get back to them. Stops are half an hour at: 1:30 p.m., Sunset Park; 2:30 p.m., Dana Woods Park; 3:30 p.m., Sea Canyon Park; 4:30 p.m., La Plaza Park (for the city’s tree lighting event at 5:15 p.m.).

Tree lighting: The city’s tree lighting will be 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. on Dec. 6. There will be carolers and treats. Santa arrives at 4:30 at La Plaza Park, and the tree lighting will be at 5:15 p.m.

On Dec. 8, the Jolly Trolley will be arriving with Santa to hand out treats at 4:30 p.m. at Pines Park, which will be followed by a tree lighting there at 5:15 p.m. Residents are encouraged to bring an unwrapped toy for donation. Information: danapoint.org

Santa Paws: The Pet Project Foundation will be hosting its annual Santa Paws event from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 13 and 14. People are invited to bring their pets to have their photo taken with Santa for a donation to support the Pet Project Foundation, which supports the San Clemente-Dana Point Animal Shelter. Located near the Richard Henry Dana Jr. Statue.

Boat Parade of Lights: The 50th annual Boat Parade of Lights will take place Dec. 12-14 through the harbor. The Carol of the Boats-themed parade around the harbor starts at 6:30 p.m. each night. Information: danapointharbor.com

The harbor area is also decorated with its holiday light display consisting of more than 700,000 lights, including the popular “Merry Kiss Me” arch and giant whale. The decorations will be up through Jan. 4.

FOUNTAIN VALLEY

Tree lighting: The city will celebrate the holidays with the lighting of its tree at the Fountain Valley Recreation Center on Dec. 6. The event is 4:30 to 8 p.m. and will feature family activities, pictures with Santa, live entertainment and the Hyundai Snow Zone. The tree lighting will be at 5:30 p.m., followed by fireworks. Information: fountainvalley.org

FULLERTON

Tree lighting: The city will host a community tree lighting celebration at 5 p.m. on Dec. 5 at City Hall. There will be food and craft vendors, live performances, a classic car show and Santa Claus will be available for photos. Information: cityoffullerton.com

Winter Market: The annual festival in Fullerton’s Downtown Plaza, which will take place from 2 to 6 p.m. on Dec. 6, with activities for kids and adults, with an array of artisan and unique vendors and food booths, entertainment and a beer and wine garden. Information: fullertonmuseum.com

‘The Nutcracker:’ The annual holiday production of “The Nutcracker” by the Nouveau Chamber Ballet, based in Fullerton, will be performed at 2 p.m. Dec. 20 and 21 at the Fullerton College Campus Theatre. The performance is a special 90-minute version of the holiday classic. There will be a meet-and-greet after.  Reserved seating is $25-$35. Information and tickets: nouveauchamberballet.com

Evening walks: The Fullerton Arboretum is hosting a holiday stroll through its botanical garden and a winter market from 3 to 5 p.m. on Dec. 7. There will be entertainment, tours of the Heritage House and Santa Claus will be available for photos. The cost is $10. Get tickets at fullertonarboretum.com

Holiday fun: The Muckenthaler Cultural Center’s annual Holiday Festival, which will take place from noon to 4 p.m. Dec. 21, features family friendly activities, an arts and crafts fair and live performances. Santa will be in attendance. Admission is free. Information: themuck.org

New year: The First Night Fullerton New Year’s Eve Celebration will return this year. Festivities will run from 7 p.m. to midnight Dec. 31. Admission is free. The evening will feature children’s activities, food and live entertainment. A fireworks show caps the night at midnight. Activities will take place at the Downtown Fullerton Plaza. Information: cityoffullerton.com

GARDEN GROVE

Tree lighting: Winter in the Grove on Dec. 6 will feature “Snowtopia” with snow slides made from 50 tons of snow, a holiday boutique, entertainment, a visit by Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus and the lighting of the city’s holiday tree. It runs from 3 to 7 p.m. at Village Green Park. Information: ggcity.org

Community celebration: The West Grove Jingle Jam will be held 5 to 9 p.m. on Dec. 12 at Eastgate Park. Enjoy performances, activities, a vendors village and a variety of food trucks. Santa is expected to make an appearance. Information: Facebook.com/wggjinglejam

HUNTINGTON BEACH

Light a Light of Love: A family friendly event lighting up the pier with a children’s parade and lighting the giant snowflakes on the pier. The 3:30 to 6 p.m. Dec. 7 event is free at the Huntington Beach Pier Plaza; sponsor a snowflake to benefit the Waymakers Huntington Beach Youth Shelter. Information: waymakersoc.org

‘Nutcracker’ ballet: Ballet Etudes’ cast of dancers will present the holiday classic at the Huntington Beach High School Theater. Performances are 2 and 7 p.m. on Dec. 6 and 14 and there is a 2 p.m. show on Dec. 7. For ticket pricing and Information: balletetudes.com

Boat parade: The Huntington Harbour Boat Parade will shine bright for its 63rd year on Dec. 13 and 14. Boats line up at 4:30 p.m. and the parade starts at 5:15 p.m. Public viewing from beaches only. This year the theme is “Fun With Music” and the grand marshal is Madeline Fields. Track the route and get more information at HHBoatParade.org

Cruise of Lights: The Huntington Harbour Philharmonic Committee presents the Cruise of Lights, a 45-minute narrated harbor boat tour to see the holiday lights. Adults pay $26, children $19. Cruises depart hourly each evening at 5:30, 6:30 and 7:30 p.m. Dec. 19-23. Information: cruiseoflights.org

Seasonal sounds: The Huntington Beach Union High School District’s Academy for the Performing Arts will present its annual “Sounds of the Season” at 7 p.m. Dec. 12-13 and 2 p.m. Dec. 13 in the Huntington Beach High School auditorium. Information/box office: hbapa.org/see

IRVINE

On stage: The Festival Ballet Theatre will present “The Nutcracker” in multiple performances between Dec. 6 and 24 at the Irvine Barclay Theatre. Guest dancers include Jeraldine Mendoza (Joffrey Ballet) and Tiler Peck (New York City Ballet) as the Sugar Plum Fairy and Dylan Gutierrez (Joffrey Ballet) and Roman Meija (New York City Ballet) as her Cavalier. There will be a pre-show tea with the chance to meet cast members at select shows. Information and tickets: thebarclay.org

Tree lighting: The city is hosting its Illuminate Irvine tree lighting from 3 to 8 p.m. on Dec. 6 at the Palm Court Arts Complex at the Great Park. There will be activities and entertainment, capped off with the tree lighting. Bring a toy donation for the Irvine 2/11 Marine Adoption Committee Holiday Toy Drive. Information:  cityofirvine.org

Dash with Santa: The Run for a Claus, featuring a 5K and a 1-mile kids run/walk, returns on Dec. 20 at the Great Park this year. Santa Claus is expected to join in the fun. Registration and information: runforaclaus.com

Park holiday: The Great Park will become a winterscape that will celebrate the season from Dec. 6 to Jan. 4. Holidayz at the Park will feature special decorations open dusk to 9 p.m. Stroll the decorated Palm Court and enjoy selfie stations. Information:  cityofrivine.org/events 

Holiday village: Tanaka Farms’ Hikari – A Festival of Lights will be open Wednesdays to Sundays through Dec. 28 (closed Dec. 24 and 25). There is a holiday tractor ride and the farm is festively lit. Visit with the farm animals, get a photo with Santa and experience the 30-acre working farm. Tickets start at $18 for children and $28 for adults. Information and reservations: tanakafarms.com

LADERA RANCH

Christmas fun:  There will be a Winter Fest hosted at the Town Green for the Ladera Ranch community from 2 to 5 p.m. on Dec. 6 with all kinds of activities planned. There will be inflatables to bounce in, crafts to do, carnival games and visits with Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus. At 5 p.m. Santa will help turn on the holiday lights in the park. Donations for a baby supply drive for a Camp Pendleton battalion are encouraged. Information: LaderaLife.com

Festival of Lights: The Ladera Ranch Festival of Lights will celebrate the upcoming Hanukkah season from 4 to 6 p.m. on Dec. 14. There will be music, dancing, crafts and dreidels and the traditional menorah will be lit. Information: LaderaLife.com

LA HABRA

Tamales and fun: The popular annual Tamale Festival will be Dec. 6 and include the city’s holiday tree lighting at 6 p.m. Tamale vendors will be selling their savory and sweet creations; there will also be other food for sale. There will be entertainment and other events – one area is dedicated to kids’ fun, including sledding and rides. The event runs 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Euclid Street between La Habra Boulevard and Bridenbecker Avenue and there will also be activities at City Hall, along First and Second avenues and at Portola and Brio parks. Information: lahabratamalefestival.com

Hang with Santa: The Children’s Museum at La Habra will again host Breakfast with Santa this year where children can take photos with the big guy and do activities. Sessions are 9 and 11 a.m. on Dec. 13 at the La Habra Community Center. Pre-registration required, tickets are $25 for adults and $20 for children. Information: lhcm.org

LA PALMA

Tree lighting: The city’s 39th annual holiday tree-lighting ceremony will be Dec. 3. The festivities begin with Santa’s Village at 4:30 p.m. There will be arts and crafts to do and children can write a letter to Santa. Local school children will perform and the tree lighting ceremony will start at 5:30 p.m. Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus will be part of the festivities and families will be able to visit before the ceremony. Rain would reschedule the event to Dec. 10. Information: cityoflapalma.org/treelighting

LAGUNA BEACH

Hospitality Night: The festivities begin at 5 p.m. on Dec. 5 in the Peppertree Lot (Lot 2), with entertainment and activities, and it’s where Santa Claus will arrive about 6 p.m. to greet holiday revelers before the tree lighting. There will be crafts and activities, shopping, holiday performances and more through 9 p.m. and includes entertainment on Forest Avenue. Trolley service will run until 11 p.m. Information: lagunabeachcity.net

Winter festival: The Sawdust Art & Craft Festival is hosting its Winter Fantasy from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Fridays through Sundays through Dec. 21. Along with shopping from more than 180 local artists, there are holiday performances and more. General admission is $12. Information: Sawdustartfestival.org

LAGUNA HILLS

Tree lighting: The city will host a community party to mark the lighting of the city’s holiday tree from 6 to 8 p.m. on Dec. 5 at the Laguna Hills Community Center. There will be entertainment, crafts and Santa Claus will be visiting. Information: lagunahillsca.gov

Holiday shows: The city will host a Holiday Dance & Music Extravaganza from 6:30 to 9 p.m. on Dec. 19, but it requires pre-registration. Get information on how to register at lagunahillsca.gov. The performances will be at the community center.

LAGUNA NIGUEL

Holiday parade: The annual Laguna Niguel Holiday Parade will take place at 10 a.m. Dec. 13 on Crown Valley Parkway between Nueva Vista and Crown Valley Community Park. There will be parade floats, marching bands, local organizations and exotic cars, with Santa Claus making a visit. Information:  lagunaniguelparade.com

Tree time: A Christmas tree lighting for the community will be hosted by the city from 5 to 8 p.m. Dec. 6 at City Hall, 30111 Crown Valley Parkway. There will be entertainment, crafts, games and photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus.  Information: cityoflagunaniguel.org

LAKE FOREST

Tree lighting: The city’s annual tree lighting ceremony at the Civic Center will start at 3 p.m. on Dec. 13. There will be entertainment, family activities, crafts for kids and shopping at a holiday boutique. Santa Claus and some of his friends are expected to stop by and the night will end with the city’s tree lighting at dark. The event ends about 6 p.m. Information: lakeforestca.gov

Wander Heritage Hill: Experience the historic Heritage Hill Park decked out for the season. On Dec. 5-7  explore the park and its historic buildings during the 39th annual Candlelight Walk. Stroll the grounds from 5 to 9 p.m., twinkling lights will guide visitors and there will be musical performances, holiday crafts and a visit by Santa Claus.

Then, from 5 to 9 p.m. on Dec. 12-14, the park will be open for taking pictures and wandering through its twinkling light displays.

Both events are free at 25151 Serrano Road. Information: ocparks.com/heritagehill

LOS ALAMITOS

Winter fun: Winter Wonderland will be hosted from 4 to 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 6 at 10901 Pine Street. There will be snow sledding, a Santa’s Village, entertainment and ice skating. There will also be a tree lighting. Information: cityoflosalamitos.org

MISSION VIEJO

Santa’s arrival: Santa’s arrival in Mission Viejo will be celebrated starting at 3 p.m. Nov. 30 at City Hall. There will be interactive activities, live entertainment and more through 6 p.m. when Santa will arrive on a fire engine to help with turning on the city’s holiday lights. The event is free.

The big guy will then be visiting his workshop at City Hall from 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesdays and weekends from Dec. 3 until Christmas. He’ll be hanging out to greet visitors and take photos. Information for both events: cityofmissionviejo.org

Mix it up: The city will be hosting Holiday Mix and Mingle from 5 to 9 p.m. on Dec. 20 between the Civic Center and the North Paseo, 25282 Marguerite Parkway. There will be a Whoville-themed Night Market with the Grinch, Santa’s Workshop will be open and other entertainment.

Show tradition: The “Feast of Lights” returns to Saddleback College’s McKinney Theatre with performances by the college’s Chamber singers and the Community Chorale and Symphony Orchestra. There will be an audience sing-along and student artists will have a boutique before the show. Shows are 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. Dec. 6 and 7; general admission is $32.50. Information: saddleback.edu

Drive-Through Nativity at Mount of Olives Church: Drive through or walk to experience a live retelling of the Christmas story. Enjoy live actors, animals, music and narration. Attendees are encouraged to bring nonperishable food items to donate to support families and singles in need. The free event is open from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. Dec. 12 and 13 at Mount of Olives Church. Information: moochurch.org/christmas/drive-thru-nativity

NEWPORT BEACH

Vintage Christmas: Crystal Cove Conservancy will host its annual holiday bazaar and tree lighting from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Dec. 6; it will feature shopping from local artisans and the chance to meet Santa Claus (from 3:30 to 5 p.m.), among other activities. The tree lighting program will be 3 to 5:30 p.m. Information: crystalcove.org

Menorah lighting: The Chabad Center for Jewish Life-Newport Beach and Fashion Island will host a public menorah lighting ceremony Dec. 14. The event will start at 3 p.m. and will feature singing and festive traditions. It will be in the Atrium Garden Court. Information: fashionisland.com

Lighting of the Bay: Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort will celebrate the season by lighting up its bay nightly at dusk with floating holiday decorations from Nov. 28 through Jan. 4. It offers a variety of activities, including fire dance performances, visits with Santa and more, some of which is free; look online for prices and times. Information: newportdunes.com

Hanukkah celebration: The Chabad Center for Jewish Life is presenting a Hanukkah celebration starting at 1 p.m. on Dec. 25. There will be activities for children, treats, a gelt drop from a firetruck ladder and a concert with The Moshov Band. It will be held outdoors at the center, 2240 University Drive, overlooking the Back Bay. Information: jewishnewport.com

Boat Parade of Lights: Hundreds of decorated boats will sail around Bay Island and Newport Harbor during the 117th annual event. The parade runs nightly Dec. 17-21, starting about 6:30 p.m. It starts and ends at Tip of Lido Isle. There will be fireworks at 6:15 on Dec. 17 to open the parade. There will also be a nightly drone show at 6:15 and 8:15 at the Balboa Bay Club and 6:45 and 8 at Peninsula Park. Information and map: christmasboatparade.com

ORANGE

Christmas village: Irvine Park Railroad’s Santa’s Village is open daily from Nov. 28 through Dec. 30, closed Dec. 24 and 25. Children can visit Santa and there are other activities, such as carnival games, blizzard ball and a moon bounce. Costs for activities vary, some are free. There is also a Train of Lights running Dec. 26 to 30, tickets for that go on sale, online only, at 10 a.m. Dec. 8. Information: irvineparkrailroad.com

Tree lighting: The annual tree-lighting ceremony and candlelight choir procession, taken over this year by the Orange International Street Fair, will be Dec. 7. The day will start with a Christmas market in Old Towne at 10 a.m. with arts and crafts, kids activities, photos with Santa and more. The music program and tree lighting in the plaza will start at 5:15 p.m. The event is free and open to the public. Information: orangestreetfair.org

Hanukkah celebration: Temple Beth Sholom will host a Hanukkah menorah lighting at 6 p.m. nightly in the traffic circle of the Orange Plaza from Dec. 14 to 22. Each night of Hanukkah a ceremony to light another candle will be held. Temple Beth Sholom serves a large population in Orange. Information: tbsoc.com

Holiday music: Chapman University’s Musco Center is hosting the always-popular Holiday Wassail Concert for the 61st year. It will take place at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 5 and 6 and feature Chapman’s orchestra and choirs performing holiday music. General admission is $25. Information: muscocenter.org

Library visits: Santa Claus will stop by the Orange Public Library & History Center to visit with children. Parents are encouraged to bring cameras to get photos of their children with Santa during the free event and kids can write Santa a letter. He will visit at 6 p.m. on Dec. 9. Families may line up for a ticket starting at 4 p.m.; after 6:30 p.m. tickets will be on a first-come basis. Information: orangepubliclibrary.org

Holiday music: St. John’s Lutheran Church of Orange’s “The Sounds of Christmas” concert will begin at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 5, and 2 and 5 p.m. Dec. 6. It will feature The Jubilate Choir, Cathedral Bells and the Festival Orchestra. There is no admission, but a freewill offering will be accepted. Child care is available. St. John’s is at 185 S. Center St. Information: stjohnsorange.org

PLACENTIA

Tamale Festival: The city will be combining the always popular Tamale Festival and its annual treelighting ceremony to host “A Very Tamale Holiday,” on Dec. 11. The event will be held in Old Town Placentia from 4 to 10 p.m. and feature the North Pole Playground with snow for sledding; photos with Santa Claus; entertainment and a variety of vendors selling tamales as well as desserts and handmade holiday gifts and decor.  Information: placentiatamalefestival.org

RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA

Dine with Santa: The RSM Cares Bell Tower Foundation hosts its annual Breakfast with Santa on Dec. 6 at the community center. There are two sessions, 8 a.m. and 10 a.m.; tickets are $8 for kids and $16 for adults and need to be purchased online ahead of time. Enjoy breakfast, storytime and crafts. Information and tickets: rsmcares.org

SAN CLEMENTE

Santa’s Village by the Sea: Ring in the season in downtown San Clemente from 4 to 8 p.m. on Dec. 6, with Santa’s Village by the Sea. The processional with Santa Claus will start at 4:30 p.m., arriving at the Community Center where he will hang out to take photos with families until 8 p.m. The city’s tree lighting will happen at 5 p.m. There will be games, entertainment, snow to play in and activities (purchase a wristband to participate, with a discount online for presales). Following that is music and shopping on Avenida Del Mar continues until 9 p.m. Information: san-clemente.org

Holidays at the Casa: Several holiday events are planned at the Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens, starting with a performance of The Nutcracker by Ballet Academy & Movement at 7 p.m. on Dec. 4 and 5. There will be free admission for a Family Sunday Christmas Open House from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Dec. 7; a Teddy Bear Christmas Tea at 2 p.m. on Dec. 13; Christmas Nights at the Casa to see its illuminated gardens, enjoy live performances and more from 5 to 7 p.m. on Dec. 12, 13, 19 and 20; and a Dec. 19 Coffee Concert with High Tide Coffee from 10 to 11 a.m. For more information about the events and costs, visit CasaRomantica.org

Sunsets with Santa: Santa Claus will be hanging out on the San Clemente Pier from 3 to 5 p.m. Dec. 14 and 20. Take photos with him in front of the tree and there will also be holiday music.

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO

San Juan Tree Lighting: The city’s tree lighting celebration at Historic Town Center Park will feature festivities and entertainment starting at 4 p.m. on Dec. 6, with the tree being lit at 5:45 p.m. Families can enjoy holiday activities after the ceremony in the Los Rios Historic District, including photos with Santa Claus, a train ride and more. Donations of unwrapped toys for an OCFA holiday drive are encouraged. Free shuttles will run on a loop through the area. Information: sanjuancapistrano.org

Capistrano Lights: The Mission San Juan Capistrano’s tree lighting and music program returns on select nights from Dec. 19 to 30.  There will be a special opening night event at 4:50 p.m. on Dec. 19. The evening spectacular begins at 3:30 p.m. and goes until 6:30 p.m., but tickets are valid for all-day admission. There will be a large-scale nativity, Dickens-era carolers and the nightly lighting of the tree, among other features. General admission is $20. Information and tickets: missionsjc.com

SANTA ANA

Victorian Christmas: The Santa Ana Historical Preservation Society will be hosting its fourth annual open house for the holiday from 5 to 8 p.m. on Dec. 12 and 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Dec. 13 and 14. Each room of the Dr. Willella Howe-Waffle House and Medical Museum will be decorated by a local business, organization or person and there will be crafts to do, holiday vendors and more. Information: santaanahistory.com

SEAL BEACH

Festive parade: The Seal Beach Lions Club, with an assist from City Hall, will host its annual holiday parade at 7 p.m. on Dec. 5 down Main Street. This is the parade’s 47th year, the theme is “Christmas in Toyland.”

STANTON

Holiday tree: The city is hosting a holiday celebration from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Dec. 4. Before the lighting of the city’s tree, there will be musical entertainment and arts and crafts. Santa is expected to visit. Activities are at Stanton City Hall. Information: ci.stanton.ca.us

TUSTIN

Escorting Santa: The Tustin Police Department’s Santa Sleigh has been traveling through neighborhoods each holiday for more than two decades.The sleigh will visit various streets each weekday night Dec. 1-15. Check the city calendar at tustinca.org for which streets the sleigh will try to visit each night, weather permitting.

Tree lighting: The city will host a tree lighting and holiday stroll from 6 to 8:30 p.m. on Dec. 5 in the Old Town Tustin area. There will be photos with Santa Claus, entertainment, activities for children and more. Bringing donations of new toys and pajamas is encouraged. Information: tustinca.org

District holiday: The District at Tustin Legacy will host a holiday celebration from noon to 2 p.m. on Dec. 6 with photos with Santa Claus, activities and crafts for kids and more. Information: thedistricttl.com

VILLA PARK

Santa’s tour: Santa Claus is coming to Villa Park for his annual sweep of the city on Dec. 6 – and as usual for the city, he won’t be riding a sleigh but a fire engine. Each year for Santa’s tour, the fire engine makes stops all throughout the city so Santa can meet with residents and their children. A tour route and full schedule of stops (there are new times this year) are available at vpcsfoundation.org

And that night, there will be tree lighting ceremony at City Hall with the Villa Park High Choir signing carols, treats and Santa. The ceremony will be 6 to 8 p.m.

Boat parade: The beloved Dry Land Boat Parade will return to Villa Park on Dec. 14 this year with a “Reeling in the Holidays” theme. Each year, residents decorate their trailered boats – and just about anything else with wheels – to join in a citywide display of holiday cheer. The parade starts at 5 p.m. on Taft Avenue at Villa Park High and ends there. A parade route and schedule are available at vpcsfoundation.org

WESTMINSTER

Tree lighting: The annual holiday tree-lighting ceremony will be 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 1 at the Civic Center with kids’ activities, performances by community groups and a visit by Santa. There will be food for sale. Information: westminster-ca.gov

Santa on the Go: Santa Claus will be touring Westminster parks to spread holiday cheer. He’ll be at Bowling Green Park from 10 to 11:30 a.m. and Blakey Park from 1 to 2:30 p.m. on Dec. 6; and then College Park from 10 to 11:30 a.m. and Bolsa Chica Park from 1 to 2:30 p.m. on Dec. 13. There will be crafts to do, activities, treats and more. Information: westminster-ca.gov

YORBA LINDA

Sing along: The Yorba Linda Arts Alliance Foundation will present its 21st annual Handel’s Messiah sing-along event on Nov. 30 in the East Room of the Nixon Presidential Library & Museum. There are two opportunities to enjoy the concert – and sing along – at 10 a.m. and at noon. Doors open a half hour before for the open seating. A chorus and string orchestra will be conducted by David Walterman. Bring your own music score and 18th-century costumes are encouraged. Admission is free. Information: artsyl.org

Tree lighting: The city will have a community tree lighting ceremony at 6 p.m. on Dec. 6 at the Yorba Linda Town Center. There will be entertainment, children’s crafts and “holiday magic.”

Holiday on Main Street: The community will have a chance to visit with Santa Claus and enjoy festive music throughout the night. The event, which is hosted by local merchants, is set for 4-9 p.m. Dec. 6 along Old Town Yorba Linda’s Main Street, just north of Imperial Highway and Yorba Linda Boulevard. Bring an unwrapped toy for donation.

Heroes: The Yorba Linda Veterans Memorial Association will host the annual Hometown Heroes Christmas Tree Dedication this year. The event, which is open to the community, will be at 1 p.m. on Dec. 7 at the Yorba Linda Public Library, 4852 Lakeview Ave., and honors Southern California troops who lost their lives in Iraq, Afghanistan and Vietnam. Gold Star families are invited to place a personalized ornament. Information: yorbalindaveteransmemorial.com

Boat parade: East Lake Village homes are decorating for the holidays, and the community is having its annual boat parade – with the boats decorated as well – at 6:30 p.m. Dec. 13 and 14. Food trucks will be available from 5 to 7 p.m. at the East Lake Clubhouse. The community can watch from the public streets around the lakefront neighborhood. Information: elvca.com 

Nixon holiday: The Nixon Presidential Library & Museum will host Stars, Stripes & Christmas Lights from 5 to 8 p.m. on Dec. 9. There will be patriotic-themed holiday decor, at 5 p.m. tree lighting, photos with Santa Claus and his reindeer, entertainment and more. Visitors will be able to stroll the gardens, which will be lit with candles. At 4 p.m. there will be food trucks for getting something to eat. General admission is $45. Tickets and information: nixonfoundation.org

Abdallah Hussein Ali Eid of Westminster pleaded guilty to vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated without gross negligence, driving under the influence of alcohol causing injury, driving under the influence of alcohol with a blood-alcohol level above the legal limit of 0.08% or more causing injury, driving under the influence of alcohol and a drug while causing injury, hit and run with permanent and serious injury, and failing to stop at an accident with a hit-and-run with death, all felonies.

Eid, who was driving a car, also admitted a sentencing enhancement for fleeing the scene of a vehicular manslaughter.

Eid is scheduled to be sentenced Dec. 16.

The collision happened about 2 a.m. March 8 at Beach Boulevard and McFadden Avenue, according to police.

Eid ran away from the crash, but police found him in the area with help from multiple witnesses, police said.

The victim was identified as 38-year-old Nathan Philip Perreault of Huntington Beach.