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Winter Wonders in Costa Mesa: Festive Activities for a Magical Holiday Escape

Posted on November 26, 2024 | 11:38am

‘Tis the season! If you’re in the mood for some festive fun, look no further. Grab your beanies, charge up your phones, and get ready to experience Costa Mesa winter activities full of holiday vibes!

Top 5 Winter Activities & Events in Costa Mesa

Feel the Holiday Magic at Winter Fest OC

Dive headfirst into the holiday spirit at Winter Fest OC, Southern California’s largest winter festival! Glide through their enchanting ice-skating trail, enjoy winter-themed cocktails inside a cozy fireside igloo, speed down a 150-foot ice tubing slide, and experience a dazzling light show perfectly synchronized to your favorite holiday songs. It’s a must-do event with plenty of attractions for all ages and so many festive photo ops to fill your IG stories!

  • Open select dates from Nov 22 – Jan 5

Find the Perfect Gift Shopping at South Coast Plaza

It’s time to get your holiday shopping done, and where better to do it than at South Coast Plaza? The magical holiday décor transforms this famous shopping destination into an atmospheric winter wonderland. Find the reindeer carousel and a whimsical Santa Express train inside the center’s festive corridors, or track down Santa to take memorable professional photos. Try your hand at holiday crafts with Santa’s Craft Shop workshops. With an unparalleled selection of high-end stores and holiday essentials, South Coast Plaza offers a luxurious holiday shopping experience. 

  • Santa’s Craft Shop open Dec 6 – 24
  • Santa Photos available Nov 22 – Dec 24

Snap-Worthy Moments at the Town Center Park Tree 

Capture the holiday spirit by visitingthe massive Christmas tree in Town Center Park to take photos, easily located right in front of The Westin South Coast Plaza. If you’re in the mood for a tasty meal, try Vaca, a renowned Spanish restaurant with a perfect view of the tree. And here’s a bonus – it’s just steps away from Segerstrom Center for Arts and South Coast Repertory so you can top off your night with a live holiday performance!

Indulge in Sweet Delights at Sidecar Doughnuts & Coffee

Satisfy your craving for a sweet treat with freshly made donuts from Sidecar Doughnuts & Coffee. With accolades from CN Traveler, this culinary sensation is also a local favorite. Keep an eye out for their limited-time holiday options. From bourbon delights to peppermint perfection, experience the joy of the season in every bite.

Photo by South Coast Repertory

Become Part of the Tradition with “A Christmas Carol” at South Coast Repertory 

The holidays in Costa Mesa aren’t complete without watching a performance of “A Christmas Carol” at Tony Award-winning South Coast Repertory. Watching the story performed on stage is a long-held tradition and the absolute best way to enjoy this classic, heartwarming tale.

  • Runs from Nov 30 – Dec 24

Even More Festive Things to Do this December in Costa Mesa

Photo by Inspired Art Wine

Holiday-Themed Painting at Inspired Art Wine

Multiple Dates from Dec 1 – 22

This December, pick up a glass (or two) of wine and let your inner artist shine with over a dozen guided painting sessions featuring winter and holiday themes.

Laser Holidays II at the OCC Planetarium

Dec 3, 14, 15, 20, & 22

Step into the LAZERDOME for a holiday-themed laser show featuring seasonal music from across the decades. Experience 21st-century holiday cheer with a unique, high-tech show that delights the senses.

Holiday Maker’s Hive Market

Dec 7

A local hub of culture, food, and style, The CAMP will host a special market that will spark your holiday spirit with vendors for gifts, singing by carolers, and a free Santa Claus photo op.

Creative Babe Market

Dec 7

Support local artisans and track down holiday gifts at this family-friendly event with 100+ local vendors. Free admission and the opportunity to meet beloved cartoon character Bluey (with photo ops) make it an ideal outing for the whole family!

DIY Winter Wreaths at the Centennial Farm Workshop

Dec 7

Say goodbye to plastic, store-bought holiday decorations and make your own winter wreath at this family-friendly workshop in the beautiful Millennium Barn. Be sure to RSVP by the Nov 30 deadline!

Photo by Segerstrom

American Ballet Theatre’s The Nutcracker

Dec 12 – 22

This beautiful rendition of Tchaikovsky’s classic tale features dazzling choreography by the famous Alexei Rratmansky. This timeless story offers pure joy for the entire family.

Holidays Around the World

Dec 14

Discover how cultures around the world celebrate their holiday traditions through a day of live music and dance. The event is free with Plaza Pass, and be sure to bring your own folding chairs.

Snoopy House Holiday Display

Dec 13 – 20

Dec 16 (Sensory Friendly Event)

Stop by Costa Mesa City Hall for live performances, train rides, sledding, food vendors, Santa photos, and more. Admission is free for all ages.

Silent Night Silent Disco

Dec 20

Put on your holiday best and get ready for a unique disco experience. Pick up your pair of light-up headphones at the venue and get moving on the dance floor with holiday classics and hits.

Photo by Segerstrom

Joss Stone: Merry Christmas, Love

Dec 20 & 21

GRAMMY Award-winner Joss Stone will be accompanied by Pacific Symphony for two nights of soul music and Christmas magic.

Truffle Making at the Centennial Farm Workshop

Dec 21

Indulge in cocoa couture with a hands-on class. In two hours, you’ll have learned to melt, mix, chill, and roll hand-made truffles that you can take home in gift boxes for sweetening your holiday. RSVP online by December 14.

See What Else Costa Mesa Is Up To

To see all the top events happening over the holiday season, check out our Costa Mesa events calendar.

Book Your Overnight Stay

Skip the stress and tension of the in-laws’ house and instead celebrate the holiday season in comfort, peace, and style with an overnight stay at a Costa Mesa hotel. With central locations, these top options put you at the heart of the city’s seasonal festivities while offering a cozy, quiet space to return to in the evening for the ultimate relaxation. Beat the holiday rush and lock in your stay today.

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Posted in Misc

Costa Mesa: An Easy Weekend Getaway From the Inland Empire  

Posted on October 8, 2024 | 10:55am

Need some end-of-year travel inspiration? It’s time for a reset and Costa Mesa is here to deliver. It’s just a quick drive away from the IE which means no long flights and no overcomplicated itineraries. This Orange County hidden gem is easy to get to but far enough to switch things up!  

Retail Therapy 

Holiday shopping at South Coast Plaza will have you knocking out that gift list (or treating yourself—we don’t judge). This shopping paradise is packed with hundreds of luxury shops and your go-to brands. Where else can you strut through a two-story Gucci store and then do the same at a two-story Balenciaga?

For a shopping adventure that’s a bit more eclectic and artsy, head over to The Lab! Explore one-of-a-kind shops like Plant Matter, May Martin, and 1978—all creatively housed in retro Airstreams. And for a cool keepsake, walk across the street to The CAMP and take some pictures at Booth. This viral, celeb-loved vintage photo booth gives you an iconic black-and-white photo strip for just $5!

Deliciously Instagrammable 

Photo by Calo Kitchen + Tequila

Love food? The foodie scene here is chef’s kiss with eateries that are basically begging for a photo op! Here’s a list of the most aesthetic and tasty spots in Costa Mesa:  

  • The Plot – Best known for their Beet Reuben sandwich 
  • Ahba – Best known for their double smashed wagyu Ahba Burger  
  • Maizano – Best known for their grilled octopus Encacahuatado 

But really, the list could go on forever! Click here to start planning your Eatcation® adventure and discover even more of our top recommendations. 

Relax, Relax, Relax  

Photo by Costa Mesa Ceramics

For some well-deserved “me time,” Costa Mesa perfectly blends relaxation with one-of-a-kind experiences, creating the ultimate self-care getaway. Start by giving your skin some much-needed love with a custom facial at Facial Lounge. Next, take your zen to the next level with snake yoga at LXRYOGA—yes, snakes! It’s the perfect mix of relaxation and adrenaline, with ball pythons. Want to round out your wellness escape with a little creativity? Pop over to Costa Mesa Ceramics and roll up your sleeves—there’s something incredibly calming about crafting your own pottery masterpiece. 

Sips and Shenanigans

Photo by Pie Society

Let’s be real: no staycation is complete without a few fabulous drinks! Check out Ruin Bar, a hidden gem that feels like your hip friend’s secret speakeasy. For an aura of mystery enjoy a round of creatively crafted cocktails at P10neer hidden inside Dick Church’s restaurant 

For a quirky twist, swing by Pie Society, where pizza meets prohibition, and your cravings for carbs and cocktails are both satisfied. And if you’re in the mood for a cozy vibe, Oak & Coal has your back with some killer sake and mouthwatering yakitori.  

But wait, there’s more! If a round of drinks leaves you itching to hit the dance floor, Costa Mesa has plenty of spots where you can bust a move. Check out these top places to dance.  

Recharge and Repeat 

After a day of shopping, dining, and unwinding, why not treat yourself to a comfy stay in one of Costa Mesa’s hotels? Booking a hotel not only means you won’t have to worry about the drive home (hello, no designated driver drama), but it also gives you a cozy spot to recharge for another day of adventure. So go ahead, treat yourself—you’ve earned it! 

Heading here during the fall? Be sure to check out our blog for all things fun and fall in Costa Mesa

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Posted in Food, Hotels, Locals, Misc, Music & Art, Play, Shopping, Travel

5 Reasons Why Senior Travelers Will Love Costa Mesa

Posted on September 25, 2024 | 12:19pm

#1 – It’s an Eatcation®

Costa Mesa has the most Michelin-starred restaurants in Orange County, including six recognized Michelin guide stand-outs, and that’s just the beginning. Costa Mesa’s culinary landscape is a mix of upscale dining, local favorites, and craveable bites.

Discover Mercado González, the first concept of its kind from the multi-generational González family, responsible for the 40+ Northgate Markets across SoCal. This wonderland of Mexican food, drink, and culture features churros, tortillas, mole, agua fresca, and so much more created right in front of you.  

For carnivores, visit Butcher’s House Brasserie, where they practice the craft of butchery, with a menu anchored by dry-aged steaks and chops. New this fall is Ospi, modern Italian meets classic, with a twist of Brooklyn counterculture.

Vaca, located in Costa Mesa’s Arts Plaza, is a Michelin recognized tapas restaurant, helmed by Bravo TV’s Top Chef alumus Executive Chef Amar Santana. Try their exceptional Spanish cocktails paired with an atmosphere of California comfort.


#2 – Relax and take in the arts


Broadway? You’ve been there, done that, and you don’t want to fight crowds for a ticket or a cab—but you still love the shows. Segerstrom Center for the Arts brings Broadway shows and beloved musical classics to Costa Mesa, without the price tag, traffic, or hassle of Los Angeles or Manhattan.

SCFTA’s 2024-2025 calendar includes Hadestown, Annie, Hamilton, and Mamma Mia! Arrive early and grab dinner or a cocktail at Silver Trumpet, just steps away from the theatre. Silver Trumpet, inside Avenue of the Arts Costa Mesa, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, creates themed cocktails for the Broadway season, like “The Hamilton’s Temptation,” a blend of Templeton’s Rye and blood orange-infused liqueur that harkens to the Caribbean origins of Alexander Hamilton.


Segerstrom Hall has many accessibility features, like opened captions, wheelchair locations, easy access to elevators, ASL interpreters, and audio description. You can request a large print program or binoculars.



Visit the Samueli Theater for intimate conversations or small-format jazz or cabaret. This fall, Tony Kushner, Pulitzer and Emmy-winning playwright and creator of Angels in America: A Gay Fantasia on National Themes takes the stage with Frank Rich, television producer of Succession and Veep. The conversation between Kushner and Rich is once in a lifetime and one of kind, a dream evening for purveyors and patrons of art, drama, and great conversation. 


Click here to check for available tickets. 


#3 – You can drive, but you don’t have to

Vacation should be for relaxing and exploring, not hopscotching your way through Southern California’s endless circuit of freeways.

Costa Mesa is located just a few miles away from John Wayne Airport, and it’s easy to pick up a rental car at the airport or schedule a shuttle from one of Costa Mesa’s many excellent hotels.

Skip the chaos and confusion of LAX and fly in direct to Orange County. John Wayne Airport offers many non-stop flights from all over the United States. From Atlanta to Newark, or even to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, there’s over 35 non-stop destinations that connect directly with Orange County, and even more seasonal destinations.

Stay near the beach to soak in the sun or stay in the Arts Plaza for shopping and theater. Both are easily walkable. If you prefer to drive, Costa Mesa is the perfect gateway to your SoCal adventure.


#4 – Budget-friendly travel

Can Southern California be budget-friendly? Yes, and you don’t have to sacrifice high quality accommodations to stay within your travel budget. Costa Mesa has excellent hotels at a range of prices, from select-service and wallet-friendly, to full-service with all the bells and whistles. Staying in Costa Mesa puts you right in the middle of everything Orange County has to offer.

There’s plenty to do and see at no cost. Take in the arts and culture that Costa Mesa is known for at the self-guided Art Walk tour or Isamu Noguchi’s California Scenario. Both are free and can be experienced at your own pace. At Orange County Museum of Art (OCMA), all visitors receive free entry for ten years due to a generous grant. OCMA hosts several exhibits at a time, indoors and well-curated to fill an afternoon without overwhelming a day. Recently, OCMA has welcomed “Yves Saint Laurent: Line and Expression,” an exhibit of original drawings and dresses from the famed fashion designer.


#5 – Or live large with luxury

South Coast Plaza brings luxury to Costa Mesa—as well as spacious parking lots, many spots to sit and rest, and air conditioning. It’s the little things, right?

New to the international shopping destination’s designer roster is a 5,000 sq ft Giorgio Armani boutique and adjacent Armani Caffè, bringing together style and culinary excellence. Don’t shop till you drop. Instead, make a pit stop for cold brew and a pastry to recharge.


Bvlgari is also fusing fashion and food, introducing the first-ever Bvlgari Lounge in North America. It’s described as a chic bar and café with light refreshments. The lounge opened at South Coast Plaza in the summer of 2024.

The CEO of Bvlgari North America, Herve Perrot, reflected on the new boutique: “I think there is a Bvlgari before and a Bvlgari after South Coast Plaza. “You will see that when you visit the store. This is quite impressive.”

If you’re a fan of the classics, Gucci has a recently remodeled, two-story footprint with exclusives available only at South Coast Plaza.  

South Coast Plaza has multiple concierge locations equipped with strollers, wheelchairs, bottled water, and anything else you might need for your Shopcation.



Whether you’re retired and looking to make the most out of a fixed income or looking to live it up with kids and grandkids, Costa Mesa represents the heart of Southern California, without all the fuss of bigger cities.

Make it an Eatcation®, Artcation, Shopcation, or little-bit-of-everything-Cation. Ready when you are!

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Posted in Misc

Sip, Savor, and Celebrate the Best of Fall in Costa Mesa

Posted on September 23, 2024 | 5:21pm

As the air turns crisper and leaves turn gold, fall for the sights, sounds, (and spooks!) of Costa Mesa. With countless exciting events, comforting and craveable flavors, and one-of-a-kind Halloween happenings, Costa Mesa is a must-visit this season. Whether you’re a local or planning your next vacation, here’s your ultimate guide to celebrating fall in style. 

Beat the Morning Chill with Seasonal Sips 

Kickstart your day with a visit to two local gems, NUDAE Coffee andCoffee Nature. These neighborhood-favorite coffee shops are a great place to taste the season and warm your soul. 

AAPI (Asian & Pacific American) and female-owned, NUDAE Coffee recently celebrated their first anniversary, and it’s no surprise their espresso, lattes, and brunchy food are so beloved. For Fall, they’re offering limited-edition brews like “The Great Pumpkin,” a PSL made with warming spices, pumpkin puree, vanilla, and oat milk. It’s topped with salted maple whip and fresh grated nutmeg—yum.  

If you prefer to pass on pumpkin spice season, keep an eye out for “Ghost of Uncle Earl” featuring house made syrup using Art of Tea’s Earl Grey Creme, club soda, and a vanilla cream top. Only served iced, it tastes like Vanilla Coke as an Italian soda.  

Meanwhile, Coffee Nature brings together the unexpected in “Pumpkin Matcha,” pairing pumpkin syrup and pumpkin oat milk with matcha. Don’t miss “The Andy Apple” latte, a delicious blast of Autumn with apple juice, apple butter syrup, chai, and cinnamon.  

Get into the Fall Spirit at Tanaka Farm

For the ultimate fall vibes head over toTanaka Farms and explore Hana Field Pumpkin Patch. Wander through the eight acres of pumpkins and snap Instagram-worthy photos amidst the vibrant orange backdrop. With so many pumpkins to choose from, you’re bound to find the perfect one for carving or decorating. For even more fun, check out their family-friendly corn maze, wagon ride, and cow train!  

They are open every Saturday & Sunday from 10am to 5pm starting October 5th through October 27th. Book your pumpkin patch experience here

Hocus Pocus Beetle Juice Drag Show 

You’re going to want to drop this one in the group chat! From September 28th through October 26th, catch Orange County’s most wicked drag performance at STRUT Bar & Club

The Hocus Pocus Beetle Juice drag show is filled with fun surprises that will leave you spellbound all while you sip on your favorite poison from the bar—because what’s a little witchcraft without a drink in hand? We recommend trying their citrusy “Midnight Cabaret-tini” or their fizzy “My Ex Jack’s Lemonade!” 

Snake Yoga & Horror-Themed Axe Throwing 

A spooky season calls for spine-tingling fun, and we double dare you to take a snake yoga class at LXR YOGA! This unique experience invites you to stretch and interact with friendly non-venomous ball pythons. In small-group sessions, you’ll first learn how to hold these scaly companions and get comfortable with their gentle nature. Then you’ll draw a crystal, and the rock you pick will reveal which snake gets to join you on your yoga adventure. The class is beginner-friendly and unfolds at a gentle pace so you can connect with your breath and the snakes!  

If snake yoga is too much of a stretch, try an axe-throwing season at Slashers Axe Throwing & Ales. This horror themed axe-throwing venue is fully decorated with memorabilia from your favorite scary movies including iconic figures like Freddy Krueger, Leatherface, and Jason Voorhees. Not only do they have giant axes for you to throw but their projection targets are interactive, so you can play games like Battle Stations, Tick Tack Toe, and Alien Attack. As you put your axe-throwing skills to the test, enjoy a round of their spooking themed cocktails and make sure to try their new All Hallows Treat chocolate peanut butter stout.  

Fall’s Fashion and Fun

No visit to Costa Mesa is complete without a trip to South Coast Plaza, Southern California’s ultimate luxury shopping destination! Shop the latest fall fashion trends at their newest boutiques including Courreges, Amiri, Jil Sander, and Maison Margiela. With an array of designer labels and collections to choose from, you’ll find everything you need to give your wardrobe a seasonal glow-up.  

If you’re looking for an eclectic and artsy shopping experience, make your way over to The Camp. Its open-air layout, quirky art installations, and lush green spaces invite you to explore one-of-a-kind shops and funky pop-up vendors. This October, it’s all about good tunes and ghoulish fun! On October 19th, attend their Autumn Music Fest, dress up in your favorite tie-dye attire and listen to local bands play folk, rock, and indie tunes. Then on October 30th get ready for a spooky Boo Bash with haunted markets, horror trivia, and an outdoor screening of Hocus Pocus. 

Need a show-stopping costume for your holiday festivities? Check out the Halloween Bootique inside Triangle Square. Open all year long, this shop has the best costumes and accessories to bring your wildest vision to life!   

Cultivate Your Creativity  

Pick up a paintbrush—and a glass of wine—at Inspired Art Wine, a studio, bar, and gallery. All throughout October, Inspired is hosting painting sessions with a side of spooky season. Paint your own trick-or-treat scene, or sign up for October 19th‘s mashup of Vincent Van Gogh’s iconic “Starry Night” with Harry Potter’s Hogwarts.  

No experience is necessary, and all supplies are provided.  

If you prefer to be a patron (rather than a painter) of the arts, Costa Mesa is the home of award-winning and internationally recognized theatres and concert halls. South Coast Repertory opens their 2024-2025 season with the cult-favorite “Little Shop of Horrors” by Howard Ashman and Alan Menken.  

The classic creature feature runs from September 21st to October 19th, 2024.  

Turn up the volume and bring the whole family for “Halloween Fandemonium!” at Renee and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall. A live DJ pairs with Pacific Symphony, and Halloween magic is made. Hear all your favorite Halloween classics, plus music from beloved films like Frozen and Star Wars.  

Don’t miss the activities held in the lobby before and after the show. There’s coloring, crafts, and more. Costumes highly recommended! Suitable for ages 5 and up.

Savor the Season in Costa Mesa 

Fall is the best season to visit, with so much happening and so many new things to try. From exclusive seasonal lattes at NUDAE Coffee and Coffee Nature, to wandering through Hana Field Pumpkin Patch, and immersing yourself in the vibrant energy of South Coast Plaza, Costa Mesa is the place to be this fall.  

Embrace the season, explore the city, and make this autumn your most vibrant and memorable one yet! Find more fall happenings here

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Posted in Events, Food, Misc, Music & Art, Play, Shopping, Travel

How to Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month in Costa Mesa

Posted on September 12, 2024 | 12:44pm

Hispanic Heritage Month (HHM) is a time to celebrate the rich culture and amazing contributions of the Hispanic and Latino community. Observed annually from September 15 to October 15, HHM is celebrated both locally and nationwide across the United States. Costa Mesa, which translates to “coastal tableland” in Spanish, has a deep- rooted connection to Hispanic culture that dates back to the late 18th century when Spanish missionaries and soldiers first settled in the area. Today, the city celebrates its diverse community through food, art, and colorful cultural events that honor Hispanic traditions.

Read on for our favorite ways to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month in Costa Mesa!

Food

Costa Mesa’s food scene is packed with bold Hispanic and Latin flavors. You can eat your way through Mexico at Mercado Gonzalez, a giant Mexican food market with over 20 puestos, or food stations, dishing out everything from tacos to churros, carnitas to ceviche, and so much more! Foodies should treat themselves to an upscale dining experience at Maizano and order their famous Encacahuatado, a grilled octopus dish complimented by a rich peanut red mole.

For a delicious twist on traditional Peruvian lomo saltado, start your culinary journey at Costa Contemporary Kitchen. Then, sip on award-winning margaritas at Playa Mesa before indulging in a flavorful four meat, Michelin recognized paella from Vaca. Coffee lovers (you know who you are) should swing by Hola Adios Coffee Shop for a caffeine fix and try their mouthwatering barbacoa burrito.

We could rave about the food all day, but we’ll let our restaurant list do the talking— check it out for all our top restaurants!

Art, Music, and Dance

Diego Sepulveda Adobe

Journey through California’s rich past by visiting the Diego Sepulveda Adobe museum. Located in Estancia Park, the adobe is one of Costa Mesa’s most historic sites showcasing nearly 200 years of local history. Originally a travel stop and later a ranch house, each room has been restored to showcase four key periods in Orange County history: Indian, Mission, Spanish, and Victorian. Visit on the 1st and 3rd Saturdays of the month to explore this historical hidden gem!

ARTime Barro

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month hands-on at ARTime Barro, a local Mexican-owned pottery studio in Costa Mesa. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, their workshops and classes cater to all skill levels. With a deep commitment to fostering creativity and community, ARTime Barro stands out as a must-visit destination. You’ll not only gain knowledge of ceramics but also take home a handcrafted keepsake from your visit.

Sevilla OC

Photo by Sevilla

Experience Southern California’s longest-running flamenco dinner at Sevilla OC! These shows offer a rich blend of visuals, sounds, and flavors that will transport you right to Spain. Enjoy a mouthwatering three-course paella dinner while being blown away by a stunning two-part Flamenco performance. These dancers, trained in Spain and masters of their craft, will truly mesmerize you with their powerful and soulful movements that channel centuries of tradition.

Special Events

Photo by Segerstrom Center for the Arts

Latinx Heritage Month Kickoff

September 14, 2024

Kick-off Hispanic Heritage Month with an evening of outdoor celebrations at Segerstrom Center for the Arts. This free, family-friendly event will feature live music, a traditional Bolivian dance performance, food trucks, free face painting, and so much more!

Descanso Don Julio Tequila Pairing Dinner

September 16, 2024

Celebrate Mexican Independence Day with a special four-course tequila-pairing dinner at Descanso. Don Julio Ambassador, Jeff Blakey, will guide you through a tasty menu featuring churros, passion fruit aguachile, tamales de pato, and hanger steak cooked right in front of you on a sizzling plancha. Each course is perfectly paired with premium tequila and concludes with a special gift.

Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration

September 27, 2025

Join the City of Costa Mesa at Lions Park for their 3nd Annual Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration from 10 am – 2 pm. Enjoy food, games, activities, DJ music along with special cultural performances.

OC Pride Parade and Festival at OC Fair and Event Center

September 27, 2025

Get ready—the OC Pride Festival & Parade is coming back to the OC Fair & Event Center! This is Orange County’s official Pride celebration, bringing glitter, music, rainbows, and all the love. Enjoy an exciting lineup of Spanish and English performers, plus diverse programming—from Teen Pride to Pride Family Camp, and explore over 150 LGBTQIA+ and ally-owned vendors. Get your tickets before they sell out!

Photo by Segerstrom Center for the Arts

Sonia De Los Santos

October 11 – 12, 2025

Experience an evening with Sonia De Los Santos. Born in Monterrey, Mexico, has been performing in Spanish and English since 2007. Her joyful songs—often inspired by Latin American rhythms like huapango, cumbia, salsa, and festejo, as well as North American folk traditions—celebrate themes of childhood, friendship, and her journey from Mexico to New York.

Costa Mesa offers plenty of ways to honor Hispanic Heritage Month, from discovering new restaurants and flavors, to exploring local history, and being part of cultural events and performances. For a complete experience, book an overnight stay at one of Costa Mesa’s hotels and make it a fun getaway!

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Posted in Misc