Acting Academy for Kids & Teens

Sign up for Summer Camps

by Victoria Kertz

With summer months just around the corner, now is the perfect time to plan a fun, creative routine for children and teens. The Acting Academy for Kids & Teens (AA4K) is now open for summer camp registration, and this summer’s weeklong stage productions offer so many new opportunities for your kids to shine!

Founder Stephen Zygo is thrilled to introduce five new musicals for young voices, Barbie and Ken, Wonka, Trolls 3, Mean Girls, and WISH Upon a Star, plus returning favorites Matilda and Harry Potter. With camps from June 3 through August 9, kids (ages 5 to 14) are welcome for one week, all 10 weeks, or anything in between. AA4K is truly where the summer meets the stage — it’s all about bright lights, bright futures, and delightful productions that the whole family will love. There are life lessons, too… theatre camps build strong, resilient performers who learn to overcome challenges that come their way.

This summer is particularly special for Stephen as his son will be making his return to the Z Playhouse stage per his request since he had so much fun last summer! He dreamed of the day when he would see his own children perform at AA4K, and he’s delighted that they can join dozens of theatre-loving kids in a place that makes them (and everyone) feel very comfortable. Always a safe space for students and kids, camps will again occur at the Z Playhouse in Mission Viejo and Lyceum Village in Irvine. “Both places create a space that feels like a second home,” Stephen says.

The local longtime camp has not only produced theatre majors who return each summer to be counselors but has also unlocked professional opportunities for some very talented students. Three of Stephen’s students were recently cast in an upcoming Netflix show, and others have moved on to pursue studies and careers in the arts. One camper’s parent told him AA4K camps changed her daughter’s life. “She told me, ‘My daughter loves being part of your theatre. It’s everything to her.’ I mean, WOW!” he recalls. There’s plenty of positivity, creativity, and good energy in each fun-filled week.

Yet, at AA4K, it’s not just summer camps—theatre is a yearlong production! Teen auditions are right around the corner for their summer production of Urinetown, an adapted and teen-appropriate show that runs from June through August while High School students are on summer break. Musicals continue through the Fall, Winter and Spring with sessions that will take on more full-length shows. These seasonal programs are designed to let students take their love and experiences in musical theatre to the next level.

The only category that takes a break in summer is the recently reinvigorated TV and Film Department, AA4K Studios, the only Orange County program offering IMDB credit for locally produced films starring students. “We are one of the only programs creating film and TV magic for kids,” said Courtney Yamanishi, AA4K Studios Director, about the hands-on program, which includes access to state-of-the-art cameras, lighting, and a real-world working Hollywood film crew. Kids love it because they aren’t just acting; they’re learning the craft of filmmaking.

The Z Playhouse is busy and bustling at any time of year. It hosts full-scale children’s and adult productions, piano and voice lessons, and even stand-up comedy shows.

For those eager to enroll or seek further information about AA4K, a visit to ActingAcademyForKids.com or a call to 949-427-0072 is all it takes. Aspiring directors, choreographers, or summer camp counselors are encouraged to email ActingAcademy4Kids@gmail.com with their resumes. Give your kids a sprinkle of theatrical magic—start planning now for an unforgettable experience.

Acting Academy for Kids & Teens
Ages 5-17
ActingAcademyForKids.com
949-427-0072

2024 Summer Camps

949 VOLLEYBALL CLUB
949 Volleyball Club, celebrating 15 years in San Juan Capistrano, provides summer camps for both boys and girls, ages 9 to 18, at any ability level. The club has won 12 Junior Olympic medals, as well as 6 National Championships at the 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018 Junior National Championships. The summer camp’s goal is to teach beginners the fundamentals of the game and to prepare juniors and seniors looking to compete in the NCAA. 949 Volleyball Club promotes sportsmanlike behavior inside and outside of the gym, instills the values of integrity, dedication and hard work, and focuses on having fun! Space is limited; please register early. For more information, contact Justin directly at 949.374.2890 or visit 949vb.com.

ACTING ACADEMY FOR KIDS
Acting Academy for Kids’ Performing Arts Camp offers two family-friendly South OC locations this year — Z Playhouse in Mission Viejo and Lyceum Village in Irvine/Tustin. Daily classes in music, acting, and dance immerse kids, ages 5 to 14, in an authentic performing arts experience. The week-long camps are each guided by professional educators and culminate in a student-centered production with sets, costumes, and lights. Ten distinct week-long programs run from June 3 to August 9. The “core camp” rate is $389 per week with multi-camp and sibling discounts. Go to ActingAcademyforKids.com for details and production schedules.

BRAIN BUILDERS
Brain Builders puts the “STEAM” in education — science, technology, engineering, arts, and math. Weekly summer camps start in June and children, ages 5 to 16, will learn concepts such as energy, thermodynamics, gravity, coding and more in camps such as Engineering with LEGO, Robotics, Wood Shop, Video Game Design and 3d Printing! Themed camps are structured, goal-oriented and are either a half or a full-day. Sign up for an in-person camp at the Laguna Niguel or Tustin location. Get fee info and registration details at BrainBuildersEd.org and put on your thinking cap. Use promo code “DISH24” to receive 5% off any camp.

CALIFORNIA STATE PARKS JUNIOR LIFEGUARDS
Dive into summer adventure with California State Parks Junior Lifeguards at Doheny and San Clemente State Beaches! Sessions run from June 10 to August 16, offering three action- packed opportunities to become a water safety expert. Mark your calendars for tryouts on April 27, May 4, and May 11 at San Clemente High School. Participants will not only have a blast but also gain valuable knowledge about ocean safety, teamwork, and leadership. It’s an unforgettable summer experience where adventure meets learning! whitney.alfaro@parks.ca.gov

CAMP JAMES
Located near the scenic Back Bay at Newport Dunes in Newport Beach, Camp James has been an Orange County Tradition for 35 years and was awarded “Best Day Camp” for 2016 by Parenting OC Magazine. Ages 5 to 17 will enjoy adventures and make happy memories through a variety of activities: archery, stand-up-paddleboards, STEM, watersports, drama, a climbing wall, an inflatable water park, mini-golf, laser-tag, dance, karate, fishing, crafts and more. Children love Camp James’ caring, award-winning staff, theme weeks, and crazy special events. Parents love the flexible scheduling, outstanding reputation, extended hours, and the ACA Accreditation. Go to CampJames.com to learn more.

CAMULOS FARM
Camulos Farm offers an exciting summer Horse Camp for your child! This exhilarating camp includes daily riding, horsemanship, barn tasks, and loads of fun, emphasizing the special bond between horse and rider. Starting June 17th, with three sessions available, it’s the perfect summer adventure. Campers will dive into horse care and English-style riding, guided by daily lessons on the unique connection with these majestic animals. Running Monday to Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., spots are limited. Don’t miss out on this memorable experience—book now! For details or to reserve, visit SaraBlannTraining.com or text 760.484.6564.

LET’S GO! SUMMER CAMPS BY CITY OF DANA POINT
The City of Dana Point is excited to offer a variety of summer camps at the Dana Point Community Center for kids ages 5 to 17. The summer camp lineup includes musical theater, baseball, soccer, tennis, pickleball, cooking, robot building, animation, cultures around the world, jewelry design, quilt making, science, arts & crafts, cartooning and comic creation, and more! Registration is currently open, with early registration discounts ending May 15th. To view the full class schedule with detailed descriptions, visit bit.ly/DPRecreation.

DANMAN’S DANA POINT MUSIC
Celebrating 25 years! Danman’s Dana Point Music offers five weeks of kid’s summer camps starting June 10. Campers learn band creation, setlist preparation, and live show delivery within Monday through Friday sessions. Alongside making friends, campers create a band poster, undergo a photoshoot, and rehearse for the live performance. The camp concludes with a live set at StillWater on Friday. Professional music teachers instruct on guitar, piano, drums, bass, and vocals. Bring this ad or register by May 1 for $25 off. Camps are $350 per week, inclusive of snacks and drinks. Also available is a Chess Camp for all ages/skill levels, priced at only $40. Visit Danmans.com or call 949.496.6556 for more information.

HEAT CULINARY
Register your kid for a week-long HEAT Culinary Camp offering two themes — International Pastry & Desserts and World Cuisine! During this week of cooking, your kids will have fun, learn new skills and bring home great recipes that will impress family and friends. They will gain basic cooking techniques from roasting and grilling to baking and desserts, all with interesting flavors from around the world. Each day will be full of delicious food and hands on cooking as they make new friends in the HEAT kitchen. Ages 8 to 12 years old. Parent permission slip required. HeatCulinary.com

KG BEACH CAMPS
KG Beach Camps has been a part of the Dana Point Harbor since 1987. Children, ages 4 to 13, enjoy a variety of activities offered from three different camps based out of Baby Beach, near the Ocean Institute. Age-appropriate camps range from the Mini Minnows (ages 4 to 6) to Beach Safari (ages 6 to 9), and H20 Adventures (ages 9 to 13). Campers participate in activities such as trips to the local tidepools, crab hunting, stand-up paddleboarding, sailing, kayaking, rowing, whale watching on Dolphin Dave’s Catamaran Safari, beach games, crafts and so much more. Camps fill up fast, so book early. Camps run from June 17 through August 9. Call 949.842.5211 or email SummerBeachCamps@gmail.com for more information.

LAGUNA NIGUEL SCHOOL OF MUSIC
The Laguna Niguel School of Music invites attendees to its summer programs, offering week-long music camps and weekly lessons. Participants, both adults and children, embark on a journey of musical and artistic creativity, fostering positive experiences, critical thinking skills, and self-confidence while honing superior technical abilities. With a focus on singular, unique approaches and superior teaching methods deeply rooted in childcentered education philosophies, the school facilitates an environment where students not only learn but thrive. Students attend to gain confidence, overcome obstacles, and experience healing through music, ultimately emerging as creative, thoughtful, and proficient musicians. Visit LagunaNiguelSchoolOfMusic.com to learn more.

LIL’ KICKERS
What do puppies, sharks, aliens and soccer have in common? Lil’ Kickers! Lil’ Kickers is a child development program filled with creativity, high energy activities and loads of fun. The summer program features the award-winning Lil’ Kickers curriculum, multi-sport games and a special science/ crafts curriculum. Each activity is led by professional teachers and coaches to ensure the highest quality program in a safe and comfortable environment. Lil’ Kickers South OC offers a half day program in which you can sign up for one, two, three days or an entire week to receive a discount. Register online at LilKickersSouthOC.com.

LOS RIOS ROCK SCHOOL
Beginner/Intermediate and Advanced Rock Camps are available at Los Rios Rock School in San Juan Capistrano! Pick from seven fun, full-week camps for ages 6 to 17, offering hands-on, live music training and playing with the best instructors and facility in Orange County. Parents, friends and family are invited to see campers live in concert on a professional stage on the last day of camp. Camp tuition is $399 for new students. When enrolling, be sure to ask about the “multiple camper” discount! Camps run Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. To enroll, please visit LosRiosRockSchool.com/SummerCamps. For details, call 949.456.1081 x700 or email Schedule@LosRiosRockSchool.com.

MATHNASIUM LEARNING CENTERS
Mathnasium provides students with a customized learning plan and the personalized instruction they need to build their confidence and transform their math skills. Our expert instructors don’t just teach students to memorize or calculate, but to truly understand the way math works. This is why Mathnasium students make huge strides in the classroom and become more motivated and self-assured overall. Mathnasium is North America’s leading math-only supplemental education franchise. Since 2002 the Mathnasium Method™ — the result of decades of hands-on instruction and development — has been transforming the lives of children in grades K-12, helping them understand, master and love math. For more information, visit Mathnasium.com.

SAN CLEMENTE DANCE
Voted #1 Dance Studio in San Clemente! Beginners or advanced participants, from ages 3 to adults, can choose from a wide range of options. Weekly summer sessions with once-a-week classes and week-long dance camps are available. Young dancers, ages 3 to 7, can join week-long camps filled with arts & crafts, story time, snacks, fun, and games. Intensive workshops for beginning, intermediate, and advanced dancers featuring hip-hop, jazz, ballet, tap, musical theater, and tumbling are also offered at SCDPAC and taught by some of California’s top instructors. For information on week-long Dance Intensives and additional camp and class registrations, visit SanClementeDance.com or call 949.498.7571. Auditions for their Nationally ranked competition company, Element 5, will be held in June!

SAN CLEMENTE JUNIOR LIFEGUARDS
The San Clemente Junior Lifeguard Program is an ocean and beach safety program for young people ages 9 to 16. Participants receive education and experience in ocean safety, first aid, rescue techniques, body surfing, board surfing, physical fitness, and Marine Safety operations. This funfilled, three-week program meets just north of the San Clemente Pier. New participants must first pass a mandatory swim test to be eligible to register for the Junior Lifeguard Program. The next swim tests are on March 30, April 3, and April 6. Visit the JG website at San-Clemente.org/jg or call 949.361.8261 to learn more.

SAN JUAN HILLS GOLF CLUB
Exciting news from San Juan Hills Golf Club! Mitch Mathieu and Alika Chow are thrilled to lead another summer of golf camps that are dedicated to introducing youth to the joys of golf. Designed for ages 7 and up, with a low instructor/ student ratio of 6:1, these camps prioritize personalized instruction. Beginning on June 10th and spanning six weeks, Monday through Thursday, from 9 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. (excluding the 4th of July week), each day is thoughtfully curated to maximize junior golfers’ experiences. With light snacks provided and beverages available throughout the day, young golfers can focus on honing their skills. Enrollment is simple at SanJuanHillsGolf.com, with camps priced at $390.

SANDLOT TRAINING CENTER
Located at professional skateboarder Ryan Sheckler’s private indoor skatepark in San Clemente, Sandlot Training Center offers skate lessons, camps, and parties. Our weeklong summer camps are geared for ages 6-12, with highly skilled coaches teaching the fundamentals of skateboarding in a fun instructional environment. Our goal is to help your skater improve on their current skateboarding skillset while making lifelong friends and building self-confidence along the way. SandlotTrainingCenter.com

SOUTH COAST CONSERVATORY
Join South Coast conservatory for an awesome 32nd Anniversary Summer! Learn new things and meet new friends all summer long! Five-day camps for ages 4 to 10 including Hip- Hop, Ballet, Cheer, Acting & Singing, and Circus Tricks! Choose a specialized dance intensive for intermediate and advanced levels (ages 7 to 17). All camps end with a show on the final day and extended camp options are available! All classes are taught by certified instructors who are focused on your child’s safety and happiness. Visit scconservatory.com/summer for more info or call 949.367.0099.

STRATFORD SCHOOLS
Stratford Schools has meticulously crafted the ideal camp experience for your child, blending beloved activities with essential safety measures and flexible scheduling. Academic Camps provide a platform for nurturing your child’s passion for learning, focusing on specific subjects. Our Day Camp presents a diverse range of indoor and outdoor activities, including field trips incorporated into all programs. The Inspirational Specialty Camps offer hands-on experiences to unearth new skills and talents. At Summer@Stratford, campers delve into exhilarating STEM projects, arts, crafts, music, dance, drama, and more. Witness the remarkable moments they’re poised to achieve! Discover further details by visiting us online at stratfordschools.com/summer.

TSTREET VOLLEYBALL
Ranked as the #1 Volleyball Club in Orange County, Tstreet is centrally located in the Irvine Spectrum area. Tstreet offers a full range of positionspecific, general skills, sand camps and clinics throughout the summer. Training is open to boys and girls and the program caters to elite as well as introductory level athletes. Tstreet was founded by two-time Olympic Gold Medalist coach and player Troy Tanner who brings his philosophy of “achieving one’s highest potential” to the club. Proper movement patterns and mechanics, repetitions, feedback, and fun are emphasized in all camps! Indoor training takes place at the club’s gym in Irvine. Sand training takes place at the OC Great Park and the brand new sand courts in San Juan Capistrano on the Fairmont campus. Sign up online at TstreetVolleyball.com.

VARIANT MOVEMENT
Variant Movement is an elite, competitive, competition team providing quality training and choreography for dancers in San Juan Capistrano. They offer classes for all ages and an exclusive platform for ambitious dancers seeking to elevate their performances through rigorous choreography training. Emphasizing quality over quantity, Variant Movement prioritizes excellent technique training and choreography while valuing the time and dedication of its dancers. VariantMovement.com

WESTWIND SAILING
Welcome aboard! Westwind has been providing educational boating programs for the community since 1987. Programs include sailing camps, SUP camps, Adaptive sailing, afterschool programs and boating classes for all ages and skill levels. Youth day camps are offered during Spring Break and all summer. Westwind is the 2023 Dana Point People’s Choice for “Best Camp for Kids” and is a sanctioned U.S. Sailing, Community Sailing Center and STEM Hub. Camp scholarships are available from Cal Boating and the Dana Point Aquatic Foundation (contact Westwind Sailing directly for details). Find Westwind at the OC Sailing & Events Center in Dana Point Harbor. Call 949.492.3035 for more information. WestwindSailing.com

Together4Teens 2024

An event for youth and parents to navigate the challenges that teens face today!

In 2019, a group of organizations and youth came together to create an event that brought awareness to the pressures and challenges of today’s teens. The committee included teens, mental health and healthcare organizations, and substance use prevention organizations. The event, Together4Teens, allowed teens and parents to talk with mental health professionals and community organizations, attend brief workshops, and learn about nearby resources and services. Due to its ability to successfully reach members of the community, Together4Teens became a recurring, annual event. The Wellness & Prevention Center, in partnership with the Orange County Health Care Agency, is excited to announce the next Together4Teens event on Saturday, April 13th at Capistrano Valley High School in Mission Viejo from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

We are honored to have Larissa May, a young adult who founded #HalfTheStory, as our keynote speaker. As the first youth-led nonprofit of its kind, #HalfTheStory is focused on educating, advocating, and mitigating the harms associated with social media and technology use. Following the keynote speaker, teens and parents can attend workshops, and at the end, attend a teen panel discussion. Workshops will include important topics including teen digital wellness, building self-esteem, youth mental health education, supporting LGBTQ+ youth, mindful yoga, journaling, and more! The workshop presenters are highly regarded in the community, and dedicated to helping youths improve their mental wellness so they can lead healthier, happier lives. Both youth and parents will leave equipped with knowledge, skills, and resources to navigate the challenges of growing up today.

Attendees will not only be able to visit resource tables and workshops, and engage with community organizations, but will also be served complimentary lunch from TK Burgers! We hope you’ll join us for another year of fun, learning, and community connection with our local teens and parents.

The event is recommended for children ages 12 years and up, their parents, caregivers, and other community members who work with youth. Follow Together4Teens on Instagram for more information. Register for this event at bit.ly/T4T2024.

For a sneak peek of the Together4Teens event schedule, workshops, and presenters, please visit by clicking the following button:

Irvine Greek Fest

A Taste of Greece

A tradition since 1980, St. Paul’s Greek Orthodox Church will hold its 43rd annual Irvine Greek Fest on June 16, 17, and 18. The festivities will take place at St. Paul’s Greek Orthodox Church in Irvine. A family-fun event, the Irvine Greek Fest offers something for everyone. Much like a Greek street fair, the festival will offer tasty Greek food, an “Agora” (marketplace), boutique shops, kids’ play zone, live Greek music all weekend and Greek folk dancing. Event attendees can also enter an opportunity drawing.

The Irvine Greek Fest will take place from 5 to 10 p.m. on Friday, 12 to 10 p.m. on Saturday, and 12 to 9 p.m. on Sunday. All parking is free at Lake View Senior Center and shuttles transport attendees to the front gate of the festival.

“We’re delighted to invite everyone to be “Greek for a day,” with all of the food, music, dancing, and family fun our Festival has to offer!” says Father Steven Tsichlis, Senior Pastor of St. Paul’s Greek Orthodox Church. “Wander the grounds of our campus and savor the wonderful aromas and tastes of Greece while listening to the sounds of the bouzouki! You’ll feel like you’re in Greece!”

This year’s menu of traditional Greek food offers time-tested and perfected favorites including lamb, Greek French fries, Gyros, Pastichio (Greek lasagna), Loukaniko (Greek sausage), Spanakopita (spinach and feta cheese pie), Dolmathes (stuffed grape leaves) and more.

Greek beer and wine will be available in the Taverna bar, with big screen TVs broadcasting the days sports.

All proceeds from the event benefit St. Paul’s ministries and their charitable outreach. Festival admission is $3 per person with children under the age of 10 admitted free. Seniors 65+ are admitted free on Saturday from Noon to 5 p.m. Veterans, active service military and families, and first responders are always free. This year, all dads are free on Father’s Day, June 18th! Please visit IrvineGreekFest.com for more information.

St. Paul’s Greek Orthodox Church
4949 Alton Pkwy, Irvine
949.733.2366
IrvineGreekFest.com

RCMC Weight Loss OC

Richard Mantell, MD & his wife Jennifer

Imagine your ideal self. Would you weigh less? Have more energy? No longer struggle with chronic fatigue? The wellness team at RCMC Weight Loss is there to guide you so you can take control of your life and get healthy. Whether you need assistance with medical weight loss, nutritional counseling, or increasing stamina, they can help. For many years, the clinic has aided many patients to successfully lose weight, regain energy and keep the weight off. The clinic’s approach to wellness is truly transformative and the doctors and staff are excited to share their approach with you.

“Being overweight is a medical condition, and we treat it as one,” say Dr. Richard Mantell, owner and operator of RCMC Weight Loss OC in San Juan Capistrano. “Our patients’ chances of losing weight will be significantly higher using the program at RCMC Weight Loss rather than doing it on their own.”

“Losing weight is much more than just diet and exercise. It is simply overwhelming without guidance and direction,” adds Jennifer Mantell, co-operator in the business. “Our program provides a private nutritional counselor to help keep our clients accountable for achieving their weight loss goals. Many patients have failed numerous times in their past dieting attempts, but are amazed when they find real success at RCMC Weight Loss.”

Dr. Mantell and his team can help you lose one pound a day for up to 45 days, and more importantly, keep it off. They start with determining the underlying problem for your weight gain. For many patients, eating healthy and exercising is not enough to take off the pounds. RCMC’s cutting-edge medical weight loss treatments include integrating HCG injections, lipo injections, appetite control medication and nutritional counseling.

The medically prescribed injections protect your lean muscle mass while turning your body into a fat-burning machine. HCG is part of a fast track medical weight loss program which helps patients drop pounds fast and feel more energetic than they have in years. Most notably, nutrition counseling and lifestyle advice helps patients correct negative habits that may have led to their weight gain in the first place, so the pounds stay off for good.

RCMC’s wellness team provides nutritional counseling and lifestyle advice. Their patient-proven results show that their programs deliver positive results. Obviously RCMC points out that results may vary by individuals, but they firmly believe that by proactively addressing and correcting unhealthy eating habits in combination with their medically supervised programs, they can help patients down the path to permanent weight loss. RCMC’s wellness team is committed to helping every patient embrace a healthy, positive lifestyle.

Call (949) 267-3885 today to schedule your complimentary consultation and diagnostic appointment.

31888 Del Obispo, Ste. C-2  |  San Juan Capistrano  |  949.267.3885  |  RanchoWeightLoss.com

Your Guide to South OC’s Holiday Happenings

Want to hang out with Santa this holiday season? We’ve got the DISH on where you’ll find him in South Orange County.
Take a peek at these events for some face time with Mr. Claus and his South Pole posse!

Dana Point
Cold Chillin’
The City’s annual Winter Festival and Tree Lighting returns to La Plaza Park on Saturday, December 5th. The afternoon’s events begin at noon and run until the Boat Parade at 7 p.m. This free day of fun kicks off with a white hill of the real deal – SNOW! Get there early so the little ones can slide down the hill and capture some winter magic. The festival includes a craft fair, face painting, reindeer, a petting zoo, pony rides, cookie decorating, storytelling, carolers, jazz musicians, dancers and delicious eats. The Santa Claus will be screened with complimentary popcorn immediately following the hot-chocolate-and-cookie-accompanied tree lighting at 5:15 p.m. Please remember to bring an unwrapped, new toy for the OC Spark of Love Toy Drive.

Out Of Sight
A Galactic Holiday is the theme for the 41st annual Dana Point Boat Parade. This season’s event will take place on two consecutive weekends, December 11th and 12th and December 18th and 19th at 7:30 p.m. Whether you’re riding on a boat or viewing the festivities fromthe shore, the “Out of this World” light-filled extravaganza is a must-do holiday happening. Make reservations early at your favorite waterside eatery for a warm and comfy spot.

Have A Ball
Grab the pooch and ring in the holidays at two doggy events this season. The 3rd Annual Santa Paws event will take place at the El Torito Courtyard in Dana Point Harbor on Saturday, December 5th from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. With a small donation, you’ll receive a photo of your four-legged friend with Santa himself. Hosted by the Pet Project Foundation, proceeds benefit the San Clemente-Dana Point Animal Shelter.

On Sunday, December 6th from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m., the furry fun continues at Yappy Howl-idays on the Dana Lawn at The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel. Guests are asked to bring unopened canned or dry dog food, treats or dog toys to be donated to a local animal shelter.

Don’t Rock The Boat
Take a 20-minute cruise around the harbor on a Boat Ride with Santa and his helpers. On December 5th and 6th from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., Saint Nick will be on board spreading holiday cheer and taking note of your little one’s holiday wishes. For a $3 donation, the El Camino Real Junior Woman’s Club will happily capture the moment with a keepsake photo. Santa and crew will launch from the Dana Wharf Sportfishing docks. For more information, visit DanaPointHarbor.com.

A Storied Tradition
Holiday Storytelling returns to The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel this December 4th, 5th, 11th, 12th, 18th and 19th. The Eco-Adventure Center will host classic tales to be read aloud at 5 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Donations of a new children’s book, to benefit Miracles for Kids, are appreciated.

San Clemente
Baking Memories
On Saturday, December 5th, bring the family out to visit Santa’s Village by the Sea in downtown San Clemente. Starting at 2 p.m. at the Community Center, Mrs. Claus’ Bakery will host cookie decorating for the kids and a showing of Arthur Christmas with popcorn for all. The fun includes face painting, games, a snow hill and a chance to visit with the jolly old fellow. The afternoon culminates at 5:15 p.m. with the lighting of the community tree.

Mi Casa Es Santa’s Casa
Immediately following the Santa’s Village by the Sea event on December 5th, stroll down Avenida del Mar to Christmas at the Casa from 5 to 7 p.m. Santa, Dickens carolers, hot chocolate, cookies, kid’s crafts and holiday entertainment will make for a festive night at the beautifully decorated Casa Romantica. Admission is free. To learn more, visit CasaRomantica.org.

The Giving Tree
The Angel Tree Gift Exchange, sponsored by the San Clemente Jr. Women’s Club, benefits local children, adults and seniors in need this holiday season. Open your hearts and wallets and pick up an Angel Tree Tag at the San Clemente Community Center starting Monday, December 1st. Return your wrapped gift by December 11th to brighten someone’s holiday.

Santa And His Lil’ Elves
The San Clemente Playschool is decking the halls with a morning of holiday cheer and excitement on Friday, December 11th at the San Clemente Community Center. Santa’s elves are looking for help from your little ones to create crafts and play games together. Children will sing holiday songs, enjoy special guest appearances from Santa’s helpers, make gifts for family and friends, decorate holiday cookies and much more. The workshop will be hopping from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and is open to children ages 3 to 5 years old. Pre-registration is recommended, as space is limited. Visit
San-Clemente.org/recreation to sign up today!

Food For Thought
The 7th Annual Adopt-A-Marine Holiday Dinner for service members stationed at Camp Pendleton takes place at 7 p.m. on December 13th. The Watershed Task Force is hosting an evening of merriment with our military personnel who are away from their families for the holidays. Show your appreciation this year by donating $25 to cover a Marine’s dinner, drinks and a Christmas gift. Email info@SCwatersheds.com for donation details or log on to SCwatersheds.com.

San Juan Capistrano
Making Spirits Bright
The City of San Juan Capistrano hosts its annual Tree Lighting Celebration and Downtown Festivities on Saturday, December 5th at 4 p.m. This seasonal tradition at Historic Town Center Park features a live stage show and the official lighting of the Christmas tree at 5:45 p.m. Children will have the opportunity to take photos with Santa at nearby Los Rios Park. The fun continues throughout the evening in the downtown area, the Los Rios Historic District and at Mission San Juan Capistrano. Local retailers will be hosting open houses and will stay open late with special sales and complimentary refreshments for shoppers.

On A Mission
Father Christmas will be offering a unique “photo op” at the historic Mission San Juan Capistrano on Saturday evening, December 5th from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Christmas at the Mission features the ringing of the Mission bells, an exhibition of local music performance groups and “Santa’s Workshop” with cookie and ornament decorating for kids. Food Vendors will be serving tamales, burgers, coffee, hot cider, hot cocoa, sweets and more. This treasured landmark will be festively lit up for this special after-hours event. Dickens Carolers, chamber singers, mariachis and orchestra musical performances will entertain you throughout the evening. Bring the entire family and enjoy a special night to remember.

Laguna Niguel
Lite Brite
Laguna Niguel’s City Hall will brighten up the sky at its annual Christmas Tree Lighting and Holiday Celebration on Saturday, December 5th from 5 to 7 p.m. Join in the countdown to powering up the tree while you keep warm and happy with hot chocolate and cookies. Kids will have a blast making a craft presented by Home Depot. Songs of the season will be performed by Saddleback Valley Chorale and Laguna Niguel’s rising star, Sidney Bowen. Bring your camera and snap a quick pic with Saint Nick.

A Latke Fun
A blizzard of holiday fun awaits the whole family as Chabad Laguna Niguel and the City host its Chanukah Wonderland and Menorah Lighting on Sunday, December 6th at 3:30 p.m. The merriment will happen at City Hall, with live entertainment, arts and crafts, and traditional Chanukah treats.

Walk This Way
The City of Laguna Niguel’s annual Holiday Parade takes place on Saturday, December 12th at 10 a.m. Another picture-perfect December morning will likely usher in this annual tradition, which matches perfectly with the parade’s theme: “California Dreamin.'” This year’s Grand Marshall is Kate Flannery, a comedic actress best known for her role as Meredith in the television show The Office. Over 100 exciting entries, including marching bands, floats, special guests, youth groups, equestrian units, exotic cars, military members and local heroes, will strut their stuff through the parade route. Get over to Crown Valley Parkway early to stake out the best seat for a view of Mr. Claus!