Field Trips in Orange County Archives - Page 5 of 46

Knotts Berr-y Tales Returns in Summer 2020

Posted on November 8, 2019 | Filed Under: Field Trips in Orange County | Leave a Comment

Knott’s Berry Farm announced today in honor of their 100th anniversary celebration that the Bear-y Tales theme park ride is returning to the theme park in 2020. But this time with a twist! Bear-y Tales is an all-new 4-D interactive dark ride, bringing to life a continuation of the classic attraction initially commissioned by the Knott Family and created in 1975 by the legendary attraction designer Rolly Crump. Rolly Crump is also famous for his work on the Enchanted Tiki Room, Haunted Mansion and It’s a Small World at Disneyland.

Berry-y Tales Returns To Knott’s Berry Farm in 2020

Knott’s Bear-y Tales: Return to the Fair will take guests on an exciting journey through reimagined show scenes that are reminiscent of the original dark ride, including the Boysenberry Pie Factory, Frog Forest, Fortune Teller Camp, Thunder Cave, and Weird Woods, culminating in a celebration at the County Fair.

The new story lines takes place 34 years after the original adventure and follows Boysen Bear and Girlsen Bear as they travel to the Country Fair to earn the blue ribbon prize for their famous boysenberry pies, but Crafty Coyote is back along with his mischievous pups intent on stealing all the pies for themselves.

Guests will climb aboard ride vehicles equipped with jelly blasters to try and recover the stolen boysenberry pies as they travel through whimsical and beautiful environments while competing for the highest score. New digitally rendered scenes will recreate the most popular scenes from the original attraction.

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14 Fun Holiday Boat Parades in Southern California

Posted on November 2, 2019 | Filed Under: Field trips in Los Angeles, Field Trips in Orange County, Field Trips in San Diego, Field Trips in Santa Barbara, Field Trips In Ventura, Holiday Events | 6 Comments

Updated for 2020

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There’s nothing better than watching a parade during the holiday season. Wait!…maybe there is. It’s a boat parade! You can’t help but get into the spirit of the season with lights gleaming off the cool ripples of the water and the holiday sounds coming from the lavishly decorated vessels.

That’s why at SoCal Field Trips, we have created an extensive list of Holiday Boat Parades in Southern California for your enjoyment!

From Santa Barbara to San Diego, we have listed over 14 spectacular events. You can either attend a large one like the L.A. Harbor Holiday Afloat Parade with over 100 boats or a smaller one such as the Naples Island Annual Boat Parade, which has a hometown feel. So spend the evening with your family and friends down at the water front enjoying the sights and sounds of the holiday season!

Holiday Boat Parades in Orange County

Dana Point Harbor Boat Parade of Lights, Dana Point

December 4, 5, 11 & 12 @ 7:30 pm

This year’s parade theme is “Fiesta Holiday.” 100 boaters compete in the categories of style, intricacy and outlandishness. Past years’ entries have featured towering light displays and inflatable snowmen riding motorcycles and planes. In 2008, one boater even outfitted his craft with rotating wooden attachments that gave the appearance of dolphins swimming alongside. The parade starts by the water’s edge at 7:30 pm.

credit: alisolagunanews.com

Huntington Harbor Boat Parade, Huntington Beach (returning in 2021!)

A “Rock and Roll Fantasty” is this year’s theme which means decorators will have a wide list of songs and start to choose from. Besides the fun and excitement, they have 16 trophies to award in categories ranging from ‘Most Religious’ to ‘Best Commercial Entry’. Unlike many other boat parades, the Huntington Harbour Boat Parade is an entirely volunteer effort.

credit: Huntington Harbor Boat Parade

Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade, Newport Beach

December 16, 17, 18, 19 & 20 @ 6:30 pm – 9:00 pm

The Christmas Boat Parade is one of the oldest and most popular holiday traditions in southern California and even the nation. In 1908, a gondola and eight canoes decked out in Japanese lanterns started the tradition, which has grown into a spectacle expected to draw more than a million viewers over its five nights. The parade starts at 6:30 p.m. with boats leaving from Bay Island, making their way around the harbor, and returning at 9 p.m. In all there are just under registered 100 boats taking part in the contests.

For the first time in its 112-year history, the parade will also be streamed to viewers, giving the world a front-row seat to the annual Southern California spectacular. The virtual viewing experience will take place on multiple platforms including web, social media and the city’s local broadcast channel NBTV and will run all five nights of the parade.

The show will include the parade’s entirety, the Ring of Lights home competition, entertaining interviews with participants and spotlights on the Grand Marshal frontline heroes and local charities.

QUICK LINKS: Discount Tickets for Newport Beach Light Displays with Newport Landing Cruises

credit: christmasboatparade.com

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Discount Tickets to Nutcracker Performances in Southern California (Updated 2019)

Posted on October 14, 2019 | Filed Under: Field trips in Los Angeles, Field Trips in Orange County, Field Trips in Riverside, Field Trips in San Bernardino, Field Trips in San Diego, Field Trips in Santa Barbara, Field Trips In Ventura, Holiday Events | 24 Comments

This post may contain an affiliate link.

Do you remember when you were a child and your parents took you to see the world famous Nutcracker for the first time? I do. I was approximately 8 or 9 years old when my mother took me. I remember getting dressed up in my Christmas best and wearing my little pretty black suede shoes. Everyone in the theater was dressed to the hilt and so prim and proper.

A few years ago, I took Field Trip Boy and Field Trip Girl to see their first performance of the Nutcracker at the Huntington Beach Central Library. It was specifically tailored for children. Field Trip Girl especially enjoyed the ballet and was enamored with the enchanting music, beautiful costumes and meeting the cast afterwards.

In 2019, the essential holiday tradition continues! Join Clara and her beloved Nutcracker as she travels to the Land of Snow, and to the Palace of the Dolls where all of her favorite doll companions come to life. There are over 50+ Nutcracker Performances in Southern California this holiday season. Dates and tickets prices vary. Please see the complete list below for details.

Nutcracker Performances in Los Angeles Area

Los Angeles Ballet @ Cerritos Center, Cerritos (Nov. 30 & Dec. 1)

Inland Pacific Ballet @ Bridges Auditorium, Claremont (Dec. 21-22)

Discover the joy of the holiday season with this spectacular production of The Nutcracker; the story of a young girl named Clara who receives a magical nutcracker doll on Christmas Eve, and sets out on a wondrous journey to the Land of the Snow and the Kingdom of Sweets in a fantastic dream with battling mice, dancing snowflakes, waltzing flowers, and the delightful Sugar Plum Fairy. Meet the cast after the performance for photos and autographs.

Los Angeles Ballet @ Alex Theatre, Glendale (Dec. 7-8)

Los Angeles Ballet’s The Nutcracker is the city’s own holiday tradition, perfect for celebrating the season. Set to Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, you will be captivated as Clara and her beloved Nutcracker battle a most memorable Mouse King, encounter dancing Snowflakes and travel to the Palace of the Dolls. Los Angeles Ballet stays true to the traditions of the holiday story with some surprises! This production is set in 1912 Los Angeles. Throughout the five scenes in two acts you will find hints and tastes of Southern California – a Spanish style home, calla lilies, bougainvillea, the snowy forests of the Sierras, Venice archways, a moonlit Pacific Ocean and more!

Dance Creations @ Aguora Performing Arts Education Center, Agoura Hills (Nov. 22-23)

Dance Creations present The Nutcracker, an 1892 two-act ballet, originally choreographed by Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov with score by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. The libretto is adapted from E. T. A. Hoffmann’s story “The Nutcracker and the Mouse King”.

Degas Dance Studio @ Agoura Performing Arts Education Center, Agoura Hills (Dec. 7-8)

Bring your whole family to share and enjoy this wonderful holiday tradition with a family friendly full ballet production. Featuring Music by Tchaikovsky, professional as well as pre-professional and student performers, beautiful costumes and magical digital backdrops.

The Red Chair Children’s Production Company @ Alex Theatre, Glendale (Dec. 14-15)

Now in its 14th year, The Red Chair’s energetic rendition of this holiday classic features young artists, ages 5 to 18, in principal and supporting roles along with adults. A cast of over 100 will bring to life the enchanting storybook tale of a young girl’s magical Christmas Eve that takes her, and the audience, on a delightful and exciting journey. Designed to captivate the youngest audience member with its lavish sets and glittering costumes to the oldest with its quality ballet production, Red Chair’s Nutcracker is truly the magical way for all ages to start the holidays!

Los Angeles Youth Ballet @ Alex Theatre, Glendale (Dec. 21-23)

Internationally renowned ballet stars and prominent role models Ashley Murphy and Brooklyn Mack guest star in Los Angeles Youth Ballet’s critically-acclaimed production of The Nutcracker by award-winning choreographer Andrea Paris-Gutierrez, which caps the holiday season with four performances.

Los Angeles Ballet @ The Dolby Theatre, Hollywood (Dec. 20, 21, 22, & 24 )

Antelope Valley Ballet @ Lancaster Performing Arts Center, Lancaster (Dec. 14-15)

AV Ballet’s 20th Anniversary season at the Lancaster Performing Arts Center begins with a celebration of their 20th production of The Nutcracker. The best known and most beloved of all AV Ballet productions, this Christmas tradition has been seen by tens of thousands. Clara’s holiday journey with her Nutcracker through a battle filled with rats, a magical snowstorm and her visit to an enchanted confection created castle has become a mainstay in our community.

Long Beach Ballet @ The Long Beach Convention Center, Long Beach (Dec. 14-15 & 20-22)

This stunning version of Tchaikovsky’s classic ballet by artistic director David Wilcox has been a Southern Californian holiday favorite for over 30 years years. Accompanied by full symphony orchestra, the Long Beach Nutcracker also boasts sparkling sets and costumes, a cast of over 200, dazzling pyrotechnics and magic effects — along with a special appearance by Rebel, Long Beach Ballet’s gorgeous white Arabian horse. The Los Angeles Times calls Long Beach Ballet’s The Nutcracker “opulent, family-oriented holiday entertainment,” and The Huffington Post raves that it “enchants children and their parents with spectacle and awe.”

Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker @ The Wiltern, Los Angeles (Dec. 21-22)

DEAL ALERT: Get discount tickets starting at $39.00 on Goldstar.com or $39.00 on Groupon.com

Bringing holiday joy and goodwill with its 2018 Dove of Peace tour, Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker is inspired by the Bolshoi’s 1957 version of Tchaikovsky’s classic. In this always heartwarming spectacle, the young Masha and her Nutcracker Prince arrive in the Land of Peace and Harmony, where the Dove takes Masha on a magical trip across the globe, introducing her to the rich and colorful cultures of the world. Filled with premier Russian dancers, larger-than-life nesting dolls, handmade costumes, young local dancers — and even a falling snow effect — this perennial favorite is sure to cast its seasonal spell over the entire family, leaving kids “wide-eyed with delight” (The New York Times). And there’s no better place for you and your family to get swept up in the spirit of the holiday than at the beautiful, historic art-deco palace known as L.A.’s Wiltern.

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How To Get Free Tickets To Southern California’s Best Attractions

Posted on October 13, 2019 | Filed Under: Field trips in Los Angeles, Field Trips in Orange County | 2 Comments

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Fall is a great time to check out many of the local entertainment venues here in Southern California. By the end of September, tourists have come and gone and there’s less traffic in the Southland to deal with. Thankfully many local tourist spots in Southern California also are offering exclusive discounts to residents only. Better yet, some tickets are even free (a small service fee applies).

Goldstar.com highlights events in Los Angeles, Orange County, the Inland Empire and San Diego with everything from family-friendly theater to comedy shows to concerts and more.

So, here’s a roundup of the best fall entertainment deals in Southern California for families! As always, if you find a great deal that you like, make sure to purchase it immediately. Once tickets are sold, they are gone forever!

Happy Field Tripping!

Jilleen

Southern California Entertainment Discount Tickets

Complimentary Tickets to the Museum of Monsters, Los Angeles

A very fluffy selfie museum, just in time for Halloween! Museum of Monsters (M.o.M) puts a whimsical twist on the selfie museum, adding interactive exhibits and Immersive environments . You are invited into a world of benevolent monsters, the type of fluffy imaginary creatures we befriended as children. Museum of Monsters offers all the trappings of a selfie museum with a setting that gives you all the storybook feels. The exhibit distinguishes itself with a touch of narrative and curiosity. Designed around 10 unique rooms within a world of friendly, human loving monsters, guests will experience countless selfie moments, cuddly monster experiences and tactile activities including interactions with the slime the monsters love so much. Snap a selfie with a monster, jump into a furry ball pit and get your hands on some slime. Museum of Monsters will be open for its Halloween/Fall 2019 program thru Nov 21st! Museum of Monsters is all ages appropriate, great for Families and adventure seakers young and old!

Complimentary Tickets to Moonlight Forest, LA Arboretum, Arcadia

Moonlight Forest is a fantasy of lights that takes you to new places. Dive under the seas with exotic fish and a giant shark in our new Ocean Visions exhibit. Next step into a winter wonderland with our new Polar Dreams experience featuring playful penguins and cuddly sled dogs. Enjoy other themes and entertainment by live acrobats, dancers and other performers plus free parking. If you’re looking for illuminating entertainment for your holiday guests, bring them to Moonlight Forest!

Complimentary Tickets to The Second City’s Really Awesome Improv Show, LA

Los Angeles magazine called The Really Awesome Improv Show “the best kids’ comedy show.” Patton Oswalt also praised the show, saying “Your kids get to act like goofballs. Highly recommended,” while The Tolucan Times declared “a most impressive, quick on their feet (and wit) troupe.” Now celebrating a nine-year run, The Really Awesome Improv Show features improv games that rely on audience suggestions and participation and is great for the whole family. There’s a rotating cast so you’ll see different faces and games each week. Great for birthday parties and family outings, enjoy The Really Awesome Improv Show at The Second City in Hollywood.

Complimentary Tickets to Museum of Dream Space, Los Angeles

Museum of Dream Space (MODS) is the first museum mainly exhibiting digital art in the United States. The design concept of MODS is illuminated by art design from Yayoi Kusama (famous of infinite rooms) and the development of digital art. MODS is a world full of live images reacting on motion. You have a chance to visit a magical world with incredible Illusions supported by very unique technology. Come and take numerous amount of incredible pictures and videos and be a part of MODS world at the Beverly Center in Los Angeles.

Complimentary Tickets to Long Beach Comic Expo, Long Beach

Comics, cosplay, anime, manga, video games — whatever fandom you’re currently obsessed with, it’s good to know that places like Long Beach Comic Expo still exist! Unlike the insanity of LA and San Diego cons, this expo gives you a bit more room to breathe as you geek out with other die-hard fans while meeting your favorite creators, celebrity guests and exhibitors.

Complimentary Tickets to see The Patchwork Girl of Oz, Barnsdall Gallery Theatre, Los Angeles

Celebrating 40 years of presenting soulful, imaginative dance that takes audience members on their own journey of self-discovery, Louise Reichlin & Dancers / Los Angeles Choreographers & Dancers present an inspiring family-friendly weekend filled with dance and multimedia, featuring the award-winning dance/multimedia narrated production of The Patchwork Girl of Oz. Colorful costumes, multimedia set, and spectacular dance present a dazzling interactive journey into the land of Oz – one that ignites imaginations of young and old alike. In this narrated story adapted from L. Frank Baum, we follow characters from the Wizard of Oz and introduce new ones – like the exuberant title character the Patchwork Girl. Based on the L. Frank Baum book, this magical modern-day fable includes vivid costumes, interaction, music and multimedia sets. It’s appropriate for all ages from tiny ones to discriminating grandparents. Known for stories for the young, Baum was way ahead of his time, with super strong female characters, diversity as part of his storyline, and advanced technology – he has Glinda, Sorceress of the South, invent wireless technology at the beginning of the story- and this was in 1913!

Complimentary Tickets to see Miracle on 34th Street, Actors Co-op Theatres, Hollywood

For anyone who has a difficult time getting into the true spirit of Christmas, Miracle on 34th Street is the show to see. You will want to bring the entire family to enjoy this classic, told in the style of a live 1940’s era radio broadcast. Staged with live Foley effects and a score of favorite holiday tunes, Miracle on 34th Street is sure to be a highlight of the season.

Complimentary Tickets to see Disney’s My Son Pinocchio Jr., David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre, La Jolla

The classic tale of toymaker Geppetto’s little wooden puppet is given new life in this JCompany Youth Theatre production starring young actors. This new musical, which retells the classic Disney story from Geppetto’s perspective, features the beloved classic songs, “When You Wish upon a Star” and “I’ve Got No Strings,” alongside a host of new songs by Tony, Oscar & Grammy winner Stephen Schwartz (Hunchback, Pocahontas, Wicked). Geppetto learns the joys of being a father and loving his child unconditionally. Join all the classic characters you know and love, along with some exciting new ones, as Geppetto journeys beyond the toyshop to discover the meaning of family. Special Thanks to our Show Sponsor Geppetto’s Toys.

Complimentary Tickets to see Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, The Grove Theatre, Upland

A Christmas Carol goes with the winter season like hot chocolate, woolly socks and a warm blanket. Ebenezer Scrooge may be a miser, but seeing his cranky face is like meeting an old friend. Settle in, get cozy and get the holiday season going with this gorgeously theatrical version of a time-honored Chrismastime tradition.

More Activities for Kids in Southern California:

75+ Splash Pads in Southern California

7 Free Disney Summer Movie Nights in Anaheim

How to See A Free Concert Rehearsal at the Hollywood Bowl

20+ Water Parks in Southern California

Top 6 Knott’s Spooky Farm Activities For Kids

Posted on October 4, 2019 | Filed Under: Field Trips in Orange County | 2 Comments

Last Saturday, my family had a not-so-spooky day at Knott’s Berry Farm in Buena Park, California! We attended their annual Halloween family-friendly celebration called Knott’s Spooky Farm. This daytime event is a non-scary celebration of cheer rather than fear with shows and activities geared for kids ages 3-11. The fall daytime Seasons of Fun event is included with regular park admission or your 2019 Knott’s Berry Farm Season Pass.

Families are invited to participate and join in the Halloween fun at several key areas within the park – Ghost Town, Calico Park, Fiesta Village and Camp Snoopy. This special limited-time event serves up live entertainment, trick-or-treating, a costume contest and exclusive festivities tailored just for little ones.

Top 6 Not-To-Miss Knott’s Spooky Farm Activities

Ghost Town Treat Stops

We attend Knott’s Spooky Farm every year and like to bring along our good friends to enjoy it with us. First, my children and their friends go trick or treating through Ghost Town. Since Knott’s has expanded the trick-or-treating path to six stations, my little ghouls are able to interact with even more spooky, but friendly shopkeepers, than in years past. Children are encouraged to wear their costumes while trick-or-treating, while parents can pick up a treat bag for their kids at the main entrance. The treat bags that contain event maps and other goodies are distributed from opening until 4:30pm.

Check Out The Best Halloween Costumes For Kids!

Morph Alien Pick Me Up Inflatable Blow Up Costume Disney Fairies Tinker Bell The Pirate Fairy Girls’ Costume Marvel Spider-Man Toddler Costume Disney Mary Poppins 2 Pc. Girls Costume, with Hat Size: Med Star Wars: The Force Awakens Child’s Stormtrooper Costume, Medium

While walking around Calico, the friendly ghosts hand out treats to the children, tell funny ghost stories from the school house steps, take spooky pictures with visitors and do personal coffin fittings. If your lucky enough, the ghosts might even show up in one of your pictures!

This year’s trick of treat stations are located at the Dress Shop, Post Office, Calico Bank, Gun Shop Peak In, Undertaker and Town Hall. I highly recommend that you arrive early in costume to go trick or treating at Knott’s Berry Farm. Since the lines can get fairly long, the earlier you go, the better. Also, as it gets closer to Halloween, the park can fill to capacity.

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