And, if she’s shelling out her own money for new stuff, the Trabucco Hills High junior has a set budget for how much she’s willing to spend, which, frankly, she said, is often for clothes not as cool as the vintage pieces she finds for a significantly reduced cost while thrifting with her friends.

“Anything over $25 is crazy for a T-shirt; most sweatpants should cost about $40,” the 16-year-old from Lake Forest said, adding that she’ll sometimes splurge up to $100 for jeans or sweats that are a better quality. And if, by chance, somebody gave her a designer pair of jeans for over $200, she’d be thankful, of course, she said, but she might question the person’s choices. “It’s crazy to spend that on something that could be bought cheaper.”

She shares that mindset with her twin sister, Shelby Kwon, and their friends and classmates, Sofia Kim, 17, and Chloe Park, 17, who together have undertaken a special project to create a thrift store at their high school.

In October, with help from teacher Kara Johnson, they opened Monty & Millie’s Exchange, a thrift shop set up in a classroom and open to students at lunch on Wednesdays. Besides clothes, there are also shoes, household items and toys.

Each student who shops can get up to two things for free. Since opening, the shop and its concept have been hugely popular with students, teachers and other school staff. When open, a wait line often extends outside the building the shop is in. Donations come from the school community and the broader Mission Viejo and Lake Forest communities. Word about it is spread via social media, the school’s PTSA and its Associated Student Body.

Johnson, a special education teacher, said she introduced the thrift store idea to the four girls during the summer.

The Kwon twins, Kim and Park each participate in Johnson’s unified track program, which pairs special education and general education students for sports. The four girls, who play on the high school’s soccer team in the winter, joined the track program and trained alongside students with special needs for the California Interscholastic Federation or CIF.  Johnson is also on the board for Special Olympics Southern California and the CIF Advisory Committee for Unified Sports for the Southern Section and CIF State.

The thrift exchange was created with two goals in mind: to give THHS students a convenient way to shop, thrift, and exchange clothes on campus and to provide students with disabilities some hands-on experience learning the ins and outs of retail operations.

Johnson said she was inspired by a program at a San Diego school where a thrift shop was opened to help adult students with disabilities learn useful skills. While she saw the benefit to her special education students, she also wanted to take advantage of the teen thrifting craze.

Teens see the activity as a cool way to spend time together — instead of malls, thrift stores are the hangout now — while also being financially savvy and finding creative ways to style themselves with vintage clothes. Social media and influencer inspirations are also fueling the trend.

“It played a huge factor,” Johnson said. “It was a combination of providing work skills for our students, providing a trendy shopping experience for all students, and keeping it free rather than charging students, to make it accessible for all.”

When she ran the idea by the Kwon sisters, Kim and Park, each was enthusiastic and loved the idea.

“Thrifting is just really popular because of how expensive things are, and it’s a way to get clothes and still have good style,” said Park. “A lot of it is having good style by getting something vintage.”

Park explained that what makes vintage clothes so attractive is that the items are often one-of-a-kind, not available anywhere else.

To get things going, the four teens gave up their free time over the summer to collect donated clothes. Johnson had put the word out to other teachers and school staff, and by August, they had more than 50 gigantic bags filled with inventory.

“We thought it was a really good idea and it was also a way to give back to our community and school,” Olivia Kwon said, adding that she and the others then washed, folded and hung the clothes.

As they sorted through the clothes, they discovered some highly coveted items, like anything from Free People and Brandy Melville, said Kim.

“They’re really good quality,” Park chimed in.

Other finds were prom and high school dance dresses that typically get worn once and then discarded. Some students can’t afford those, Kim said, adding that investing in one dance isn’t a good financial idea either.

As luck would have it, a nearby home goods store, At Home, was shutting down and donated tables, hangers, shelves, and a variety of retail supplies to the project. Those, Johnson said, help make Monty’s & Millie’s Exchange — named after the school’s two mustang mascots — more authentic.

The store officially opened in October and is staffed by Johnson’s special education students, who are building real-life skills through folding, organizing and decorating the store and keeping eager shoppers at bay. Students get 10 minutes each to shop.

Controlling those shoppers falls partly to Brady Sugg, one of Johnson’s standouts, who keeps the students in line while they wait for their turn to come in.

“I try to keep them from rushing the line,” the 17-year-old said, ” and I tell them to be quiet.”

Besides his other duties of sorting by size and gender, stocking clothes and doing laundry, managing the students coming in helped prepare him for an internship at Walgreens this fall.

There, he’s frequently asked to help people find something they’re looking for.

While Sugg said working with “older people is scarier,” he said the experience he’s gained at Monty & Millie’s Exchange has made him more confident. He also said he likes the “good vibes” from the happy shoppers and said the shop has a “nice smell.”

And, while he’s waiting to score some of the school’s popular spirit gear, Sugg said he’s watched a lot of students walk away with great finds.

Among those on a recent day was Ava Wong, who happily showed off a plaid skirt and knitted sweater.

“I figure I can make a cute outfit with these,” she said as she was checking out. “I usually find a lot of gems I wouldn’t find anywhere else.”

And, Keitha Stowers was checking out the racks with long dresses. Though she didn’t find any she liked that day — she prefers long sleeves, and most were strappy — she did score two sweaters.

A fan of thrifting, she really liked that it was also something she could do at school.

“Thrifting is so popular, especially among women my age,” she said. “It’s a cheap teenage activity, and you get something nice.”

Johnson said she’s not surprised by the shop’s success and credits it to the students’ hard work.

“I still think a ton of kids don’t know about it, but we wanted to start small and manageable,” she said. “Once everyone knows about it, we will get another classroom for backstock. I want to sustain it.”

ATHLETE OF THE YEAR

Summer Wilson, Irvine, Senior 

Irvine senior Summer Wilson had a record-setting season.

Wilson set a CIF State Championships record with her winning time of 16 minutes, 20 seconds over the 5,000-meters course at Woodward Park, which has hosted the CIF State meet since its inception in 1987.

She won the CIF Southern Section Division 2 race in the CIF Southern Section Championships in November with a time of 15:14.50 on the “rain course” at Mt. San Antonio College. That is the best time for any high school girl in national cross country history for a 3-mile course.

Wilson also set the course record at Irvine Regional Park with her winning time of 15:47.3 on the 3-mile course for the Orange County Championships in October.

Wilson was proud of all of her achievements, especially the state meet record.

“Being a state champion was a huge goal for me,” Wilson said. “But also breaking the state record and the course record was special.”

She competed in the Nike Cross Nationals in Oregon earlier this month. Her 23rd-place finish in 17:49.70 on a 5,000-meter course was not the greatest finish of her senior year, but qualifying for that national event was a major accomplishment.

Wilson will continue her high school running endeavors in the spring with the track and field season. She was a CIF Southern Section champion last season in the 3,200 meters. Wilson finished seventh in that event at last season’s CIF State Championships.

Next fall she will attend Duke University, which has been a lifelong goal.

“As a kid I envisioned myself attending Duke,” said Wilson, who has a 4.42 grade-point on a weighted scale. “I’ve always wanted to go to a strong academic school.”

Wilson went into this season ready to pursue her huge goals, including pursuing the CIF State finals record of 16:25 set by Sadie Englehardt of Ventura in 2024, a record Wilson broke by an impressive margin.

“It comes down to talent but mostly how hard you’re willing to work,” Wilson said. “I feel like I came in super dedicated. This year meant a lot to me.”

COACH OF THE YEAR

Chase Frazier, JSerra

Chase Frazier led JSerra to CIF State and CIF Southern Section championships this season. The Lions also won the Woodbridge Invitational team championship, the first Orange County girls team to accomplish that.

JSerra became only the second Orange County school to win a CIF Southern Section girls country championship for the fifth season in a row. (Corona del Mar is the other county school to do so.)

Frazier, 40, completed his fifth season as JSerra’s girls cross country coach. He also coaches the school’s boys cross country team, which also won a CIF-SS title this season.

ALL-COUNTY FIRST TEAM

Emma Alba, Beckman, So.

Millie Bayles, Trabuco Hills, Sr.

Taryn Coulston, Santa Margarita, Jr.

Anna Desormeau, Trabuco Hills, Sr.

Carol Dye, Santa Margarita, Jr.

Maya Pawlowicz, JSerra, Fr.

Monserrat Santillan-Silva, Century, Sr.

Lilly Schroeder, El Toro, So.

Brooklyn Tennant, JSerra, Fr.

Summer Wilson, Irvine, Sr.

ALL-COUNTY SECOND TEAM

Ava Crocker, El Toro, So.

Amber Dazey, Tesoro, Sr.

Mackenzie Forrest, Tesoro, Sr.

Reese Holley, JSerra, Jr.

Sedona Sweginnis, San Clemente, Jr.

Alahna Thomas, Santa Margarita, Sr.

Skylar Watts, Trabuco Hills, Sr.

Gweneth Williams, El Toro, Jr.

Kate Woodside, Esperanza, Sr.

Isabella Wrobleski, Yorba Linda, Jr.

Detroit-based Rocket Cos. restructured the operations of Mr. Cooper since the two businesses completed their combination in a $14.2 billion all-stock transaction on Oct. 1.

“The site will continue to operate and will not be closed,” wrote Angela Greenfeather, executive vice president and chief human resources officer with Mr. Cooper, of the Lake Forest business in a Dec. 8 letter filed with the state’s Employment Development Department.

The layoffs are effective Jan. 16.

The permanent layoffs were mentioned in a notice filed with the EDD as part of the federal Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act — commonly referred to as WARN. Notifications are required when an employer lays off more than 50 employees.

Founded in 1994, Mr. Cooper initially announced plans to layoff 88 workers in mid-November at its business at 25500 Commerce Centre Drive. However, wrote Greenfeather, 14 more positions were identified in the January layoffs, she said.

Among the worker positions cut were vice presidents in charge of strategic initiatives and loan processing, underwriters, loan processors, funding staff and business analysts.

The combined Rocket Cos. and Dallas-based Mr. Cooper Group Inc. created a business representing one in every six mortgages in the United States.

The merger united Mr. Cooper’s servicing operations with Rocket’s scale in mortgage origination and its growing real estate and technology platform. As part of the transaction, Mr. Cooper and its servicing operations will transition under the Rocket brand.

Rocket has been on a buying spree, Bloomberg reported in October. The company announced deals for Mr. Cooper and home-search platform Redfin Corp. in just a three-week span this year. Rocket is looking for “greater control over the entire process of buying, selling and financing a home,” Bloomberg said. The deal for Redfin was completed in early July.

“By combining mortgage servicing and loan origination, along with home search through Redfin, we are paving the path for Americans to own the dream,” Rocket Chief Executive Officer Varun Krishna said in a statement Oct. 1.

Corona del Mar proved that Tuesday. Five players for the Sea Kings scored in double figures in their 74-71 win over Cypress in the Orange County North/South Challenge at Tesoro High.

Junior guard Maxwell Scott scored 17 points. Senior guards Aiden Cole and Oliver Nakra scored 14 points each, senior guard Luke Mirhashemi scored 13 points and sophomore guard Nolan Scott added 11.

The Sea Kings, No. 4 in this week’s Orange County Top 25, are undefeated at 12-0. No. 6 Cypress is 10-5.

Cypress took a 54-53 lead into the fourth quarter. A 3-point basket by Nakra was an important one, giving Corona del Mar a 64-60 lead. Nakra made another 3 a couple of minutes later, and a basket by Maxwell Scott later pushed the Sea Kings’ lead to 71-64.

The Centurions twice trimmed their deficit to three points in the fourth quarter but did not get closer.

Mirhashemi liked the Sea Kings’ effort Tuesday.

“We played super hard,” Mirhashemi said. “Our coaches do a great job of getting us prepared for every game.”

Junior guard Brennen De La Cruz led Cypress with 18 points. Senior guards Ryan Gov and Ethan Mai scored 13 points each for the Centurions.

The Orange County North/South Challenge is being played for the 26th time. The event is dedicated to the late Tim O’Brien, who coached at Northwood, Estancia and elsewhere in Orange County boys basketball.

Also in the Orange County North/South Challenge on Tuesday:

No. 2 Crean Lutheran 72, No. 7 Los Alamitos 69: Hunter Caplan made four free throws in the final 17 seconds to keep the Saints ahead in the final game of the eight-game event.

Crean Lutheran is 10-3. Los Alamitos is 4-6.

Caplan, a junior guard, scored a game-high 24 points including five 3-point baskets. Crean Lutheran 6-11 senior Chadrack Mpoyi scored 16 points.

Los Alamitos was led by sophomore guard Isaiah Williamson’s 19 points. Senior forward Tyler Lopez scored 17 points and sophomore guard Riley Bowers 15 added 15 points for the Griffins.

The Griffins led at various times during the fast-paced game, including a 67-66 lead with 1:35 left in the fourth quarter. Los Alamitos’ frenetic style bothered Crean Lutheran, but Crean Lutheran’s size advantages were in a large way responsible for the Saints’ victory.

No. 12 Tesoro 61, Irvine 46: Max Draper scored 18 points with 17 rebounds for the Titans (13-2).

Carson Hatch added 15 points for Tesoro.

No. 18 San Clemente 59, No. 23 Woodbridge 49: Bryan Blake scored 24 points and Desi Gutierrez scored 23 for the Tritons (7-7) in their win over the Warriors (10-4).

No. 21 Fountain Valley 67, Trabuco Hills 65 (OT): Kenneth Nguyen made two 3-point baskets in overtime for the Barons (12-0) in their victory over the Mustangs (9-7).

Nguyen finished with a team-high 21 points including four 3-pointers. Nguyen made his other two 3s in the fourth quarter. Isaac Chinchilla scored 17 points and James Pennington contributed 13 points for Fountain Valley.

Ryan Hull scored 24 points for Trabuco Hills. Devon Williams added 19 points for the Mustangs.

San Juan Hills 68, Tustin 51: Rocco Jensen’s 27 points led the Stallions (9-5) over the Tillers (8-8).

Stallions coach Jason Efstatiou said Tuesday’s game was a rare one for San Juan Hills because the team finally had a full-health roster.

San Juan Hills got off to a solid start and had a 27-6 lead at the end of the first quarter.

In other North/South Challenge games Huntington Beach defeated Dana Hills 69-39 and Northwood defeated El Toro 74-57.

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.

Heritage Hill Park in Lake Forest is lit up with Christmas lights, including the St. George’s Episcopal Mission (church), December 7, 2025, during the 39th annual Candlelight Walk. (Photo by Steven Georges, Contributing Photographer)

Families gather for a showing of The Wizard of Oz by The Puppets & Players’ Little Theatre, December 7, 2025, at the 39th annual Candlelight Walk in Heritage Hill Park in Lake Forest. (Photo by Steven Georges, Contributing Photographer)

The SoCal Holiday Brass, from left, Adam Bhatia, Drew Ninmer, Dillon MacIntyre and Gabriel Sears plays Christmas songs, December 7, 2025, at the 39th annual Candlelight Walk in Heritage Hill Park in Lake Forest. (Photo by Steven Georges, Contributing Photographer)

People move past displays of lights as they walk up to the St. George’s Episcopal Mission (church), December 7, 2025, at the 39th annual Candlelight Walk in Heritage Hill Park in Lake Forest. (Photo by Steven Georges, Contributing Photographer)

The Rodriguez Family of Santa Ana sits for a family photo with artificial snow falling as it sparkles, December 7, 2025, at the 39th annual Candlelight Walk in Heritage Hill Park in Lake Forest. This weekend is the Holiday Lights event. (Photo by Steven Georges, Contributing Photographer)

Multiple families stop to have their kids photo taken in front of a wall of lights, December 7, 2025, during the 39th annual Candlelight Walk in Heritage Hill Park in Lake Forest. (Photo by Steven Georges, Contributing Photographer)

Puppeteer Laurie Branham, of The Puppets & Players’ Little Theatre, puts out a show for the kids, December 7, 2025, at the 39th annual Candlelight Walk in Heritage Hill Park in Lake Forest. (Photo by Steven Georges, Contributing Photographer)

Two girls stop to listen to the Lil Dickens Carolers sing Christmas songs, December 7, 2025, at the 39th annual Candlelight Walk in Heritage Hill Park in Lake Forest. (Photo by Steven Georges, Contributing Photographer)

Guest walk through a tunnel of lights, December 7, 2025, at the 39th annual Candlelight Walk in Heritage Hill Park in Lake Forest. (Photo by Steven Georges, Contributing Photographer)

Ben Threestar plays Christmas songs on his guitar as people come to visit the St. George’s Episcopal Mission (church), December 7, 2025, at the 39th annual Candlelight Walk in Heritage Hill Park in Lake Forest. (Photo by Steven Georges, Contributing Photographer)

People walk the grounds lit up with Christmas lights, December 7, 2025, at the 39th annual Candlelight Walk in Heritage Hill Park in Lake Forest. (Photo by Steven Georges, Contributing Photographer)

Ben Threestar plays Christmas songs on his guitar as people come to visit the St. George’s Episcopal Mission (church), December 7, 2025, at the 39th annual Candlelight Walk in Heritage Hill Park in Lake Forest. (Photo by Steven Georges, Contributing Photographer)

The Hart family of Lake Forest take a family selfie, December 7, 2025, at the 39th annual Candlelight Walk in Heritage Hill Park in Lake Forest. (Photo by Steven Georges, Contributing Photographer)

Four-year-old Elliott Panella of Lake Forest works on a ginger bread house ornament at the crafts table, December 7, 2025, during the 39th annual Candlelight Walk in Heritage Hill Park in Lake Forest. (Photo by Steven Georges, Contributing Photographer)

The Lil Dickens Carolers, from left, Jason Pascual, Montica Kirsch, Tisha Bellantuoni and Bryan Vickery sing Christmas Carols, December 7, 2025, at the 39th annual Candlelight Walk in Heritage Hill Park in Lake Forest. (Photo by Steven Georges, Contributing Photographer)

Carter, 9, and Cameron, 5, of Portola Hills, and the rest of the Lowenstein family have their photo taken with Santa, December 7, 2025, at the 39th annual Candlelight Walk in Heritage Hill Park in Lake Forest. (Photo by Steven Georges, Contributing Photographer)

Families walk through a maze of lights, December 7, 2025, during the 39th annual Candlelight Walk in Heritage Hill Park in Lake Forest. (Photo by Steven Georges, Contributing Photographer)

Families walk through a tunnel of lights, December 7, 2025, at the 39th annual Candlelight Walk in Heritage Hill Park in Lake Forest. (Photo by Steven Georges, Contributing Photographer)

Celebrate the holiday season at Heritage Hill Historical Park by exploring its historical buildings decked out with dazzling lights and seasonal decorations.

There will be spots decorated for photo opportunities throughout the park, which is home to four restored historic buildings from the Saddleback Valley’s earlier eras.

Last weekend the park featured its Candlelight Walk with Santa Claus, family activities and performances.

For this second weekend of holiday festivities at the county park, visitors will be free to wander on their own, but there won’t be the activities. Pets are welcome on leashes no longer than six feet.

Light refreshments will be available for purchase.

If you go

When: 5 to 9 p.m. on Dec. 12-14

Where: Heritage Hill Historical Park, 25151 Serrano Road, Lake Forest

Cost: Free

Information: ocparks.com/heritagehill

1. Santa Margarita 10-3

2. Mater Dei 8-3

3. Mission Viejo 9-2

4. Servite 6-5

5. Orange Lutheran 3-9

6. Los Alamitos 12-2

7. San Clemente 9-5

8. JSerra 3-7

9. Tustin 9-2

10. Yorba Linda 8-3

11. Corona del Mar 9-2

12. San Juan Hills 2-10

13. Edison 7-6

14. Crean Lutheran 10-1

15. Huntington Beach 8-3

16. La Habra 11-3

17. Capistrano Valley 8-3

18. Laguna Beach 9-2

19. Villa Park 7-6

20. Dana Hills 10-2

21. Aliso Niguel 8-4

22. Troy 10-2

23. El Modena 5-6

24. Western 6-6

25. Orange 6-5

–

26. Tesoro 3-7

27. El Toro 6-5

28. Trabuco Hills 4-6

29. Newport Harbor 3-7

30. Beckman 11-3

31. Fullerton 9-3

32. Brea Olinda 10-4

33. Irvine 9-4

34. Foothill 3-7

35. Pacifica 8-4

36. Marina 6-5

37. El Dorado 4-6

38. Cypress 3-7

39. Portola 6-5

40. Segerstrom 8-3

Wilson finished in a time of 16 minutes, 20 seconds as she won the Division 2 race at Woodward Park in Fresno. She set a new course record for girls at the state meet.

Wilson broke the record of 16:31 set by Claudia Lane of Malibu in 2017.

Wilson, who last week won a CIF Southern Section championship, signed with Duke.

Hunter gave the Dana Hills boys five consecutive wins at the state championships. The Dana Hills senior won the Division III race with in 14:55.3.

Former Dolphins standouts Evan Noonan (three titles, 2022, 2023, 2024) and Jai Dawson (one title, 2021) began the streak.

JSerra boys won and girls won team championships Saturday.

The JSerra girls won a state championship for the fifth year in a row with their victory in Division 4. JSerra is only the third school to win five straight CIF State cross country titles.

Freshman Maya Pawlowicz was the first runner for the Lions to cross the finish line. She finished in seventh place.

The JSerra boys won the Division 4 title. The Lions finished second in Division 4 last year.

El Toro’s girls won the Division 3 team championship. The Chargers were state Division 2 champions last year.

Santa Margarita junior Carol Dye finished third in Division 3 at 17:22.2

In the Division 1 boys team standings, San Clemente was second to Redondo Union and Beckman was fourth.

Woodbridge junior Aidan Antonio finished third in the Division 2 race at 14:50.1 to lead Woodbridge to a second-place team finish. Jesuit was first.

Trabuco Hills senior Millie Bayles was third in the Division 1 race at 17:00.3 to lead the Mustangs to third place in the Division 1 team standings.

Goodwill of Orange County opened its 25th retail store and donation center last week in Foothill Ranch.

The 20,000-square-foot space at Foothill Ranch Towne Centre takes the place of a shuttered 99 Cents Only Store. The thrift sells a wide selection of gently used clothing, accessories, home décor and odds and ends.

A drive-up donation center for gently used goods is located to the side of the building.

In August, the nonprofit opened a store in Costa Mesa, replacing a shuttered Ace Hardware store on Harbor Boulevard.

The Foothill Ranch shopping center in Lake Forest is in for big change when Costco gets moving on its next warehouse store, which is taking the place of the dormant Regal Cinemas.

Business columnist Jonathan Lansner wrote in June that Costco intends to demolish the movie theater, replacing it with a 160,811 square-foot warehouse store on the 16-acre site. The theater, which operated under the Regal and Cinemark brands, last showed films in September 2024.

The new Costco will not have a gas station. Instead, Costco is developing a gas station (only) in Mission Viejo. That plan includes building a 40-pump station at at 25732 El Paseo.

Address: 26542 Towne Centre Drive

Aliso Viejo pets store offers food, toys and baths, too

A new pet store in Aliso Viejo is settling into its new home at The Commons, the newly redeveloped shopping center on Aliso Creek Road.

Pet Evolution is the creation of Rick Zarski and Martin Balcaitis, both of longtime Orange County residents and pet “parents.” They have three dogs: Jonathan, Gina and Maggie.

“We started Pet Evolution due to our passion for pet care!” the duo told the Register. Their aim was simple: to bring healthier food and snacks to adored furry companions.

We asked a few questions about the store, which opened this spring. Their answers have been lightly edited for length.

Q: What can you tell us about the store and what it sells?

A: Pet Evolution sells high quality, healthy food, treats and toys. None of our food contains any fillers like corn, soy, wheat or any by-products and only humanely sourced meats. We have a selection of gently cooked and frozen or freeze dried raw products as well.

We also have a treat table with single source treats like puffed cow snouts, duck heads and chicken feet.

Q: Does the store offer grooming services?

A: We have a full grooming salon offering baths to full hair cuts. We specialize in Golden Doodle cuts.

Prices for grooming start at $70. We also offer mobile nail trims on the weekends. We come to you and trim your dog’s nails in our custom van. This is a great option for senior or nervous pets. We also offer walk-in nail trims in the store every day.

Q: Do you offer DIY pet-washing stations?

A: Yes, self-wash is amazing! We supply all of the shampoo and towels that you need as well as a high-velocity dryer. No time limit and no appointment needed. Single washes start at $28, and we offer monthly memberships as well! The best part is we do all the clean up! We have four tubs that are the perfect height so you aren’t hurting your back at all. The dogs love them, too.

The store is at 26541 Aliso Creek Road, next door to Trader Joe’s. For more information, go to petevolution.com or call 949-281-7653.

Target accepting clothing donations

Target has launched a Clothing Take Back Program, an effort to keep textiles from joining garbage at the landfill.

The retailer is installing donation bins at eight Orange County stores where shoppers can drop off clothing of any brand. There are some exceptions on the list, and we’ll get to that in a bit.

Target is getting ahead of a new law in California that requires producers and sellers to manage the “reuse, repair and recycling” of garments under Senate Bill 707, also known as The Responsible Textile Recovery Act. Merchants and producers have until July 1, 2026 to submit plans to do so.

Participating Orange County stores include:

• Aliso Viejo / La Paz Road
• Buena Park / Orangethorpe Avenue
• Costa Mesa / E. 17th St.
• Garden Grove / Brookhurst
• Huntington Beach / Garfield and Beach
• Irvine Spectrum
• La Habra / W. Imperial Highway
• Westminster / Beach Boulevard

Target notes the clothing can be in “any condition” but it must be clean and dry. It will not accept swimwear, rain or snow gear, footwear, bags or purses.

The clothing will be recycled or disposed of “responsibly,” the retailer notes.

For more information, go to target.com/c/clothing-take-back-program/-/N-ducoz

On the move

Brian Maxwell is the first chief people officer for the law firm Kahana Feld in Irvine. He will oversee the firm’s “talent strategy and organizational culture” at offices nationwide while leading initiatives on recruiting, retaining and developing top talent and enhancing employee relations. Maxwell worked at Deloitte for 25 years, many of them as a managing director of human resources divisions.

Justin Hassani is a new associate in the business law firm Cummins & White’s Civil Litigation Department in Newport Beach. His background is in judgment enforcement, real property and intellectual property litigation.

On board

Newly elected officers at the Orange County United Way Board of Directors include Chairman Lawrence R. Armstrong, chairman at Ware Malcomb; Vice Chair Shirin Behzadi, CEO at Shirin Behzadi LLC; Treasure Hugh Conners, who is retired from BMO; and Secretary Maggie O’Sullivan. New board members include Meg Appelgate, Greg Backley, Tara Balfour, Kim Chips, Steve Churm, John Combs, Linh Nguyen, Bill Parente, Mike Ruane and Ernest Schroeder.

Good works

Volunteers at Hyundai turned out in the pouring rain Saturday, Nov. 15, donating 750 turkeys to families in need from its national headquarters. The donations went out using a network of nonprofit partners including Boys & Girls Clubs, YMCA of Orange County, WISEPlace, Habitat for Humanity, Orange County United Way, Rady Children’s Health, UCI Health, Altamed, among others.

Girls Inc. of Orange County’s annual College Bound Luncheon raised $450,000 for the nonprofit’s programs that mentor girls into college programs. The multi-year College Bound pathway guides girls from middle school through their senior year of high school, offering STEM exploration, career mentoring, campus visits, and senior-year application support. Last year, Girls Inc. of OC awarded $222,000 in scholarships to 20 girls. For more information, go to girlsinc-oc.org.

Status Update is compiled and written by Business Editor Samantha Gowen. Submit items and high-resolution photos to sgowen@scng.com. Allow at least one week for publication. Items are edited for length and clarity.

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