Over The Top Mommy

SoCal Fun

Southern California Resident Ticket Offer Returns for Disneyland Resort

This is not a sponsored post. All opinions are my own.

Happy 2018! There’s no better way to kick off the new year than a very special Disneyland Resort ticket offer for Southern California Residents. This offer comes just in time for guests to “get more happy” with some upcoming, exciting offerings including:

  • enhanced Star Wars experiences at Disneyland Park
  • the guest-favorite Lunar New Year celebration
  • the popular Food & Wine Festival returning at Disney California Adventure
    Park
  • the first-ever Pixar Fest, a resort-wide celebration of stories and characters from
    Pixar Animation Studios.

disneyland-resort-ticket-offerIn addition to this great offer for tickets, the three hotels of the Disneyland Resort are offering special rates on standard and premium rooms for a limited time.(see below for more information about this.) disneyland-mark-twainThe Southern California resident ticket offer* provides flexible options for two or three days of magic and adventure at special prices. For a limited time, guests may select from these purchase options, which can save Southern California residents up to 25 percent off select multi-day tickets:

• 2-day ticket with choice of one park per day for $159
• 2-day Park Hopper ticket for $204
• 3-day ticket with choice of one park per day for $199
• 3-day Park Hopper ticket for $244
Please note: These tickets are valid January 8 through May 24, 2018, excluding the following blockout dates: March 23 through April 8, 2018. Purchase from January 8 through May 21, 2018. Tickets expire on May 24, 2018.
disneyland-summer-celebrate-summer-colorful-wallThese limited-time tickets are an ideal way for Southern California residents to make
unforgettable memories and “get more happy” with family and friends. Guests using these
special tickets will enjoy a variety of classic attractions and entertaining shows throughout the resort, as well as exciting new experiences.disneyland-resort-celebrate-summer-max-passWhile you’re visiting, definitely consider adding MaxPass to your ticket. It’s a great value and has some amazing benefits, allowing you to access FastPass through the app and allows unlimited downloads of your PhotoPass photos. To read more about Disney MaxPass, go here.

disney-social-media-moms-paradise-pier-hotelSpecial hotel offers are available for guests who want to turn their visit into a getaway and stay in the middle of the magic at any of the three Hotels of the Disneyland Resort are available during the first few months of the year. Guests may save on standard and premium rooms for select nights from January 7 through April 12, 2018, if booked by March 17, 2018.** This is an ideal time to stay at the newly renovated Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, the modern classic Disneyland Hotel, or the seaside-themed Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel. For more information about these great offers, please visit Disneyland.com.

Some images may be property of Disneyland Resort and used with permission. 

Lego® Ninjago® Days at LEGOLAND® California Resort 1/13-14 + Premiere of “Lego® Ninjago® – Master of the 4th Dimension”! 4D Film

This is not a sponsored post. All opinions are my own.

Ready, set, NINJAGO® time! The new 4D film, “LEGO® NINJAGO® – Master of the 4th Dimension”, opens exclusively at LEGOLAND® California Resort on Jan. 12 and will roll out at LEGOLAND® Parks and LEGOLAND® Discovery Centers nationwide throughout 2018. The 12 minute, 4D experience will play throughout the day at LEGO Showplace Theater in the Park.lego-Ninjago-4DKids can join their favorite NINJAGO heroes at a very special dojo training session exclusively at the family theme park! Guests can become part of the 4D action as Master Wu prepares the ninjas to take on the teachings of the mysterious ‘Scroll of the 4th Dimension’ but disastrous consequences strike and Kai, Nya, Lloyd, Zane and Cole find themselves in a whole heap of trouble for not only them, but the whole universe!Lego-Ninjago-4D-charactersIn celebration of the all new 4D animated adventure, the weekend continues with LEGO® NINJAGO® Days Jan. 13 & 14.at LEGOLAND® California Resort. Guests are invited to join in the LEGO NINJAGO fun at the park and meet some of their favorite LEGO NINJAGO Movie characters including Lloyd, Sensei Wu, Kai, Jay and Nya.2018-lego-ninjago-daysFind your inner peace with other fun activities, in the park, throughout the day including:

  • THE LEGO® NINJAGO® MOVIE™ Character Meet & Greets: Meet the stars of the THE LEGO® NINJAGO® MOVIE™ in LEGO® NINJAGO® World!
  • Miniland Scavenger Hunt: Find the ninjas in Miniland U.S.A. and complete your entry form for a chance to win a LEGO® NINJAGO® prize pack!
  • WB Family GameSpace featuring THE LEGO® NINJAGO® MOVIE™ Video Game: Master new skills and upgrade your weapons in your training to find your inner ninja in this brand new video game.

lego-ninjago-collectorAll activities are included with the price of admission into LEGOLAND California Resort. For more information, visit http://www.LEGOLAND.com or call 760.918.5346.

Images are property of LEGOLAND California Resort and used with permission. 

Ring in the New Year at The Triangle in Costa Mesa

This is not a sponsored post. All opinions are my own. 

If you’re looking for something fun to do to celebrate New Year’s Eve this year, head over to The Triangle in Costa Mesa, where you’ll find a variety of dining and entertainment options, perfect for creating a memorable night with family or friends.Here are some of the offerings you’ll find there, nye-the-triangle-exteriorTavern+Bowl – Both Family and Adult Bowling packages will be offered at Tavern + Bowl on Sunday, December 31. The Family Bowling Package is $99 per lane, with up to six people on one lane. Reservations are available from 1 to 3:30pm, 4 to 6:30pm, and 7 to 9:30pm. The Family Package includes bowling, shoe rentals, and buffet-style food service with three flatbread pizzas, boneless wings and Caesar salad, along with unlimited soft drinks, and one glass of Champagne or sparkling cider per person.
The Adult Bowling Package is $129 per lane, with up to six people on one lane. Available from 10pm to 1am, this package includes three hours of bowling, shoe rentals, buffet-style food service with three flatbread pizzas, boneless wings, Caesar salad, and a shared appetizer of nachos and spinach dip, as well as unlimited soft drinks and one bottle of Champagne.nye-bowl-tavernBoth Bowling packages must be booked and paid for in advance with Tavern+Bowl’s events department. Please call 949.438.2320 for reservations.
Tavern+Bowl will also have Open Bar Packages available, with times from 9 to 11pm, and 11pm to 1am. Tickets are available for $30 per person in advance, and $40 per person at the door. Included in each ticket are domestic and premium draft beers, bottled beer, house wine, well cocktails and soft drinks. Advanced tickets can be purchased at Costa Mesa Ticket Sales.nye-la-vida-cantinaLa Vida Cantina – Celebrate New Year’s Eve with family and friends at La Vida Cantina’s festive brunch on Sunday, December 31. Guests can enjoy La Vida’s brunch menu with bottomless Mimosas and Bloody Marys from 10am to 2pm. La Vida will reopen at 5pm for a New Year’s Eve Party, which will include live music, a DJ, dancers, Happy Hour pricing including $2 street tacos, $3 Coronas and domestic draft beer, and $5 margaritas.

On Monday, Jan. 1, La Vida Cantina will also host a New Year’s Day Brunch Party from 10am to 6pm, with bottomless Mimosa and Bloody Marys, Happy Hour all day, live music and a DJ, $3 Coronas and domestic draft beer, and $5 Margaritas. Also, if you celebrate New Year’s Eve at Time Nightclub, bring your admission ticket to La Vida on Monday to get one entrée 50% off when you purchase one entrée.NYE-at-the-triangleTime Nightclub – Festivities at Time Nightclub will begin at 9pm on New Year’s Eve with DJ Morten performing. For tickets, please click here:nye-time-nightclub-1On New Year’s Day, Time Nightclub will also have a Daybreak Party from 6am until 12 noon, with more entertainment by DJs Danger House, Trevor Shawn, Rozco, Snowball and others. For tickets to the New Year’s Daybreak Party, click herenye-time-nightclub-2Saddle Ranch Chop House – A Prix Fixe menu will be available at Saddle Ranch Chop House beginning at 7:30pm, and VIP Bottle Service table reservations will be available at 10pm. Packages, which include dinner, live entertainment, a magnum of Champagne, party favors and a Champagne toast at midnight, begin at $396 for four people. To purchase tickets, click here. For more information, call 949.287.4652.nye-saddle-ranchThe Triangle is conveniently located at the end of the 55 Freeway, where Newport Blvd., Harbor Blvd. and 19th Street intersect, in Costa Mesa. The center offers seven levels of free parking, as well as a Valet on the first level near Tavern + Bowl. nye-the-triangle-logoTo sign up for their newsletter, please go here. Connect with The Triangle on Facebook and Instagram.

Images are property of The Triangle, Tavern + Bowl, La Vida Cantina, Time Nightclub, and Saddle Ranch Chop House and used with permission. 

43rd Annual Boat Parade of Lights in Dana Point Harbor

I was invited to a media event in exchange for coverage. All opinions are my own.

This holiday season, Dana Point Harbor will welcome more holiday festivities and entertainment than ever before during the 43rd Annual Boat Parade, which will take place on December 8, 9, 15 and 16.dana-point-harbor-boat-parade-of-lightsFamilies are invited to to come and celebrate this year with “A Superhero Holiday” theme at the 43rd Annual Boat Parade of Lights in Dana Point Harbor. The young and the young at heart are encouraged to dress as their favorite superheroes during the Boat Parade. dana-point-harbor-duskEveryday heroes, including first responders and military, will be collecting unwrapped toy donations for Operation Santa Claus under the corridor of lights at the pergola. Donations
will also be accepted at businesses throughout the harbor.dana-point-harbor-superherosVisitors of Dana Point Harbor are invited to participate in jolly activities with a superhero twist on select dates December 8-16, by the water’s edge. On each evening of the
parade, OC Parks will host free family activities throughout Dana Point Harbor
including:

  • games
  • crafts
  • photos and selfies with Santa
  • superhero encounters
  • live entertainmentdana-point-harbor-boat-parade-of-lights-carolers

The family-friendly festivities begin at 4:30 p.m.and culminate each night with the spectacular boat parade which starts at 7:30 p.m.dana-point-harbor-snowmanThere are so many brightly-lit and festive areas to check out down by Dana Point Harbor, making for great photo opportunities. dana-point-harbor-parade-of-lights-family-selfieFree trolleys for each night of the Boat Parade will be running from 3:30 to
10:30 p.m. and will be dropping off and picking up along Dana Point Harbor
Drive at Doheny State Beach, The Visitor’s Center, Ocean Institute, Baby
Beach, Island Way, Retail Area and back to Doheny. For more information on the evening’s festivities, please visit DanaPointHarbor.com.

 

SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration Featuring New Live Nativity Through January 6

I was invited to attend a media event in order to provide this coverage. All opinions are my own.

I was so excited when family and I were invited to a special night at SeaWorld San Diego to experience their Christmas Celebration. Wow, SeaWorld goes all out, with more than a million holiday lights, hundreds of Christmas trees and 5,000 feet of garland. The lights of SeaWorld’s 320-foot Skytower Tree of Lights, which is the largest Christmas tree in Southern California, dance in sync with classic holiday songs.seaworld-celebration-family-photo-1

What’s New at SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration for 2017
This year at SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration, there’s an all-new live holiday musical, O Wondrous Night. It brings the moving story of the Nativity and the meaning of Christmas to life through song and celebration, It is “The Greatest Story Never Told:.seaworld-o-wondrous-night The spectacular stage show is performed nightly, under the stars, in the Nautilus Amphitheater It tells the Christmas story from a new point of view: through the eyes of the animals. The musical features more than 30 carols, beautiful storytelling puppets and live majestic animals, including camels, a donkey, llamas, sheep and doves. seaworld-o-wondrous-night-nativity-sceneIt’s absolutely amazing and beautiful and will fill your heart with the true message of Christmas. Here’s a look at “O Wondrous Night”:
In addition to O Wondrous Night, all the seasonal favorites that have made SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration a family holiday tradition are back for park guests to enjoy. Here are some of the other fun holiday festivities you’ll find this year at SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration:
Rudolph’s Christmastown

Returning this holiday season is the most famous reindeer, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer in his very own area, Rudolph’s Christmastown. rudolphs-signWe were excited to see our friend Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer again this year. Did you know SeaWorld is the only theme park on the West Coast where people can meet Rudolph?rudolph-and-friends Yep! Rudolph is hanging out with his friends Clarice, Bumble, and Yukon Cornelius. You should get over there to visit him and take advantage of the fun photo opportunities. seaworld-christmas-celebration-just-rudolph Nightly Tree Lighting
There’s a nightly tree-lighting ceremony featuring the 40-foot Happiest Christmas Tree, which is accompanied by the Misfit Brass band. It was a delight to sip on hot cocoa and watch all the fun! seaworld-christmas-celebration-hot-cocoaFestive Food Offerings
There’s also an special holiday menu featuring Holiday Pizzas and delicious varieties of Mac & Cheese.  Feast on Mashed Potato, Cranberry Arugula and Classic Pepperoni Pizzas.seaworld-mashed-potato-pizzaThere’s also Holiday Mac & Cheese, Christmastown Mac & Chese and Classic Mac & Cheese.

seaworld-holiday-mac-and-cheeseSanta’s Christmas Village 
Friends and family can cozy up at Santa’s Christmas Village, where children listen to Mrs. Claus during story time. Kids can share their wish list and take pictures with Santa at Santa’s Cottage. seaworld-santa-and-mrs-clausParents can also check in for a pager that will hold their spot in line to meet Santa so that the family can explore the Village, including educational encounters with real reindeer from Santa’s workshop, “Merry Moments” with Santa’s friendly elves and delectable culinary creations. You’ll also want to join in the Christmas Sing-Along with Mrs. Claus and the Elves, as well as the Elves Dance Party. For extra fun, mae sure to stick around for when it starts to snow! seaworld-christmas-celebration-snowDolphin Island Christmas
SeaWorld’s Christmas-themed dolphin show celebrates the holidays with a tropical twist as dolphins and pilot whales perform amazing athletic feats set to island music.seaworld-dolphin-island-christmasClyde & Seamore’s Christmas Special
The park’s prank-loving pinnipeds Clyde and Seamore have a hilarious holiday time in this Christmas-themed sea lion and otter show!seaworld-christmas-sea-lionsCat’s Christmas Parlor
Outside Nautilus Amphitheater, guests will find the Cat’s Christmas Parlor, where the feline stars of Pets Rule! hang out in their own holiday-themed house. It’s so cute to see them hanging out!

seaworld-celebration-lightsAll of SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration festivities are included with park admission. (with exception of arcade-style games and reserved experiences such as Breakfast With Orcas and Santa) SeaWorld has a variety of admission ticket offers that provide tremendous value perfect for both local residents and tourists, including the SoCal Annual Pass for less than $100. seaworld-family-photo-2.Did you know….a visit to SeaWorld helps support animal rescue programs as well as provide millions of dollars in donations and in-kind services to conservation projects around the world? Seeing animals at SeaWorld supports saving them in the wild. For more information, please visit http://www.SeaWorldSanDiego.com or call (619) 222-4SEA.

Some images are property of SeaWorld and used with permission. 

Seasonal Holiday “Sanrio Village” at Tanaka Farms Now Open + Ticket Giveaway

This is not a sponsored post. All opinions are my own. 

Have you heard about the collaboration between Sanrio and Tanaka Farms in Irvine, Ca.? Together they’ve been creating unique and memorable experiences for Sanrio fans of all ages and starting with a Hello Kitty Pumpkin Patch for Halloween. .sanrio-tanaka-farms-holiday-village-1
This season, Sanrio, Inc. unveiled seasonal holiday programming, expanding upon its unique year-long partnership with the Orange County farm of all things healthy and super cute will include a new hilltop “Sanrio Village,”, holiday wagon tours, and more fun activities. During the holiday wagon tour, tour guides will lead guests through a seasonal exploration of the 30-acre farm and its rich history, including pit stops to see and taste the delicious winter vegetables growing on the farm up close. tanaka-farms-fresh-produceOn the tour, guests will also be transported to the new hilltop “Sanrio Village,” specially decorated for the holidays with various Sanrio photo opportunities and with Santa himself.Following the visit to the “Sanrio Village,” attendees will re-board the wagon and head back down to Tanaka Farm’s Holiday Market Stand, with fun arts, crafts, and holiday activities for families and children.sanrio-tanaka-farms-holiday-village-2

During this holiday period the Holiday Village is open weekends, while the market stand remains open daily, through December 17, 2017. Each paying guest for the holiday wagon tour will receive a limited edition Sanrio button and holiday crown upon entry. Pre-registration is required for attendance and the price for admission is $18 per person (children ages 2 and under are free) To purchase tickets please go here.
Join in to Give Back
In the spirit of giving back this holiday season, guests are encouraged to bring a tin of canned food which will be donated to South County Outreach. Guests that bring a can will receive a free mini Hello Kitty storybook.
New Retail Items for Purchase
Sanrio and Tanaka Farms will also debut new seasonal co-branded retail items for purchase online and at the Farm’s Market Stand including limited edition t-shirts, sweatshirts, caps, and totes.

giveaway-enter-to-winI’m also hosting a giveaway for one (1) of my readers to win a pair of tickets to the Sanrio Tanaka Farms Holiday Village. To enter my giveaway, please visit my Facebook Page here. Giveaway is open to U.S. residents only, ages 18 years and older, until December 8 and comments will close at 11:59 p.m. One winner will be chosen via Random Number Generator and notified to arrange the date of their visit. Prize has no cash value. Giveaway is in no way affiliated with Facebook.
What’s to Come in 2018
The Sanrio and Tanaka Farms collaboration will continue  into 2018 with strawberry picking in the spring  and a melon celebration in summer 2018.
About the Sanrio and Tanaka Farms Collaboration
The yearlong collaboration between Sanrio and Tanaka Farms builds on Sanrio’s mission of cultivating unique lifestyle experiences that touch every aspect of their fan’s lives. Hello Kitty and Sanrio friends will be incorporated into the educational programming provided by Tanaka Farms, teaching visitors of all ages the importance of healthy eating, as well as sustainability, responsible farming and agriculture, all while supporting their local community. Hello Kitty, Keroppi, Chococat, My Melody and Pochacco will be integrated into photo ops throughout the farm as well as daily activities and seasonal celebrations throughout the year.

Some images are property of Sanrio and Tanaka Farms and used with permission. 

Guide to Making the Most of the Holidays at the Disneyland Resort

It’s the merriest and most wonderful time of year at the Disneyland Resort. The hustle and bustle along Main Street, U.S.A. and Buena Vista Street is in full swing. With holiday decor and twinkling lights all around, both parks are adorned and ready for guests of all ages to visit this holiday season.disneyland-holidays-sleeping-beauty-castle-adornedDisney-Holidays-Buena-Vista-StreetOur family spent a day out at the resort taking in all of the sights, sounds, and holiday fun to be had. I think it’s my most favorite time of year to visit.disneyland-holidays-with-mickeyFrom riding special holiday attractions like “it’s a small world” Holiday and Haunted Mansion Holiday to watching A Christmas Fantasy Parade and “Believe….in Holiday Magic” Fireworks to enjoying holiday treats and offerings in the Festive Foods Marketplace at the Disney Festival of Holidays, we had an excited and jam-packed day.disneyland-holidays-castle-1I feel as giddy as a little girl when I visit Disneyland Resort this time of year. Of course, I could actually say that about every visit there! Do you feel that way too?holidays-at-disneyland-resort-its-a-small-world-2Since there’s so much to do at Disneyland Resort this holiday season, I’ve put together a a guide for you to be able to make the most of your visit. You don’t want to miss out on any of the magic of both parks. I highly suggest a multi-day ticket, so you can take more time exploring each of the parks’ holiday offerings. However, it is possible to fit a lot of the holiday magic into just one day. Here’s my best advice. I hope it’s helpful.guide-to-making-the-most-of-holidays-at-the-disneyland-resortSpend some time planning before you go
I’m a definite planner so before each of our visits, I’ve found myself looking online, on the Disneyland Official Site, looking at Park Hours and the Entertainment Schedule for the day we’re going to visit. It’s a great way to plan ahead and have an idea in your head of how you should map our your stay. The site also has a ton of other info, including Disneyland Resort hotel information if you’re looking to make it a complete vacation experience.disneyland-holidays-mainstreet-at-nightDownload the Disneyland Mobile App
It’s the most magical app and the official app for the Disneyland Resort. Download it on App Store and/or get it on Google Play. The Disneyland Mobile App allows you to do such things as see park hours and maps, check wait times, buy park tickets, check FASTPASS return times, see restaurant menus and make dining reservations, view Disney PhotoPass photos, locate Disney Characters, and so much more. For more info about the Disneyland Mobil app, go here.disneyland-appDo add Disney MAXPass to your ticket
By now, you’ve probably heard a lot of talk about Disney MaxPass. If you haven’t, it’s a great feature to add to your park ticket (or Annual Pass) for $10 a person. MaxPass allows you to schedule your FASTPASS reservations to your ticket ELECTRONICALLY from your phone, through the Disneyland app. What this means is you don’t have to walk over to the attraction you’re hoping to grab a FASTPASS for. You can just schedule it from your phone. You can even be in the other park as you make your reservation. It’s such a great feature. Plus, it allows gives you access to download , save, and share, all of your PhotoPass photos from the day. Character photos, family photos, photos from designated attractions! It’s a great option to add and I highly recommend exploring it, especially during the holiday season. For more information about MaxPass, go here.disney-max-pass-imagedisneyland-resort-celebrate-summer-max-passMake a dining reservation beforehand
There are so many dining options at Disneyland Resort. Some are quick dining while others are table service. There are also grab & go food options throughout both parks. I highly suggest you make 1 dining reservation ahead of time. During the holiday season, the table service restaurants can be extra busy and I know for our family, when the hunger hits, there’s only one way to make everyone better and get them back into a good mood: FOOD! It’s easy to make a dining reservation on the app or on the site. You can also call 714) 781-3463.to make one.disneyland-grilled-cheeseStrive to make it to park opening
There are a couple advantages of making it there before opening. I feel like the parking situation is lighter when it’s early in the morning. Also, if you are there early, you’ll have better access to FastPass+ reservations, especially for the big ticket attractions that tend to “sell out” quickly. My favorite reason to get to the parks before opening is to be able to experience “Rope Drop”, which is a fun countdown right before they allow guests to head into the park. Also, if you make Rope Drop in Disneyland Park, you’ll be able to see a bunch of Cast Members all along Main Street, U.S.A. as they are giving out High 4’s to guests! (They wear Mickey gloves so that’s why it’s a “High 4”). There’s truly nothing like being in one of the parks at opening though.

Utilize Disney PhotoPass Services
PhotoPass photographers are all throughout both parks and are your best bet to capture the best shots from your visit. They are equipped with professional equipment and are set up in front of attractions, with characters, and some other fun places. They also know how to capture your best side, in the day or nighttime. I already shared that one of the benefits to adding MaxPass to your day is the ablity to access all of your PhotoPass photos from the day. It’s the best money you’ll spend and our own family loves to use one of the PhotoPass photos for our own holiday card.disneyland-holidays-photopass-with-tree-1Seek out special holiday-inspired attractions
During the holidays at Disneyland Resort, there are a few attractions that have holiday overlays and you won’t want to miss out on experiencing any of them. In Disneyland Park set sail aboard “it’s a small world” Holiday and hop on a dune buggy in Haunted Mansion Holiday. In Disney California Adventure Park, be sure to get over to CarsLand and take a holly jolly spin on Mater’s Jingle Jamboree and Luigi’s Joy to the Whirl. Once January 7 passes, these specially transformed attractions will go back to their original versions. (Kind of like what happened to Cinderella at midnight.)holidays-at-disneyland-resort-its-a-small-world-1Enjoy all the holiday treats
Although there are many foods I enjoy eating when I’m visiting the parks, my most favorite this time of year are the holiday treats. Whether it’s a special bakery treat, a hand-twisted candy cane or something warm and festive to sip on, the holiday treat offerings at the Disneyland Resort are not to be missed!disneyland-holidays-festive-treats-1Watch A Christmas Fantasy Parade
There are usually 2 performances of “A Christmas Fantasy Parade” each day. It’s a beautiful parade that the whole family will enjoy watching together. All of your favorite characters and princesses make an appearance, dressed in holiday attire, as do Santa and Mrs. Claus.disneyland-holidays-santa-in-parade-1

disneyland-holidays-a-christmas-fantasy-parade-gingerbread-manFireworks are a must!
There’s nothing ore magical than watching the nightly “Believe…in Holiday Magic” Fireworks at Disneyland Park. It’s one of our family’s favorite parts about nighttime in Disneyland Park during the holidays. Be sure to plan out where you’ll want to watch it from and try to get a spot a little early.disneyland-holidays-fireworksSave room for “The Festival of Holidays” food
Over at Disney’s California Adventure Park you’ll find 12 different kiosks set up for the “Festival of Holidays”. For more information about the foods and offerings this year, go here.disneyland-holidays-festival-of-holidays-sign-1Celebrate the season with the entertainment at Disney Festival of Holidays
In Disney California Park, there is a full lineup of holiday-inspired performances that’ll warm your heart. Be sure to check times for live music and dancing, as well as performance times of the Disney ¡Viva Navidad! street party.disneyland-holidays-viva-navidad-signLook for special holiday merchandise – Every year, I look forward to the newest holiday EARs available in the shops. I had a tough time deciding this year between the black sequinned Minnie EARs with a plaid bow or the red sequinned ones with a green bow, so I bought both! I just coudn’t resist! There is so much fun holiday-inspired merchandise to choose from this time of year. It makes my Disney heart happy!disneyland-holidays-mickey-merchandisedisneyland-holidays-merchandise-ears-1disneyland-holidays-red-sparkly-earsThere’s truly no better time like the present to create new holiday memories that will last a lifetime and no better place to do so than the Disneyland Resort! Do you have plans to visit this year? Share with me in the comments. Just be sure to do so before January 7th! Happy Holidays!\\

Some images are property of Disney. 

Celebrate the Holiday Season at Knott’s Merry Farm

I was invited to attend a media event at Knott’s. All opinions are my own. 

I get as giddy as a little girl when I spot signs of the holidays at Knott’s Berry Farm. From decorated Christmas trees to holiday music and all of the festive treats, I consider myself lucky to live in Southern California where you can celebrate the holidays while still enjoying the beautiful sunny weather outside. I am all about making the most of this time of year with my family and Knott’s Merry Farm is an annual tradition for us. knotts-merry-farm-family-1I think one of the things I love most about visiting Knott’s Merry Farm each holiday season is knowing I can expect some of my usual favorites to be there but I also to get excited for what’s new each year, in addition to all of the regular attractions we normally enjoy on our visits.knotts-merry-farm-hot-cocoaThis holiday season, it looks like the culinary team at Knott’s stepped up their festive treats game, more than usual, to catch the eyes and the palettes of all the visiting foodies. Not only will you find traditional favorites such as Mrs. Claus’ milk & cookies, hot cocoa with candy cane topping, roasted nuts, and but this year, you can feast on such offerings as tamales, Christmas pizza, and candy cane churros!knotts-merry-farm-tamalesknotts-merry-farm-christmas-pizzaMmm!  There were so many yummy treats to try, you should definitely bring an appetite with you, I almost forgot about the attractions and entertainment!knotts-merry-farm-candy-cane-churroHere are the special entertainment offerings this year at Knott’s Merry Farm:

  • “Merry Christmas, Snoopy!” (in the Charles M. Schulz Theatre) – This festive ice show continues to be a favorite, year after year and is perfect for guests of all ages. The show stars the Peanuts Gang and a cast of world-class ice skaters. Watch Snoopy enjoy all of the best parts of the season including trimming the Christmas tree, awaiting Santa’s arrival, and attending the Christmas Ball! “Merry Christmas, Snoopy!”is guaranteed to warm your heart.knotts-merry-farm-snoopy-on-ice-2
  • “It’s The Merriest Christmas Show Ever, Charlie Brown!” (at the Calico Mine Stage) – Audiences can dance and sing along to a live performance of this charming holiday show. It continues to delight audiences as The Peanuts Gang star in this toe-tapping, merry musical sure to bring out the Christmas joy in all.knotts-merry-farm-christmas-show-ever
  • “A Peanuts Guide to Christmas” (at the Camp Snoopy Theater) – The Peanuts Gang offer their take and unique wisdom on surviving the holidays, while singing you a mashup of their favorite holiday tunes.
  • Charles Dickens’A Christmas Carol and O. Henry’s A Gift ofthe Magi (in the Bird Cage Theater)- Knott’s melodrama company bring classics to life.knotts-merry-farm-decorations-birdcage
  • Snow and Glow Show (in Calico Ghost Town) – After the sun sets, enjoy this show with nightly falling snow set to thousands of sparkling lights and traditional Christmas music. knotts-merry-farm-snow-and-glow

Don’t forget to look for The Calico Bell Choir, strolling throughout Ghost Town, singing the songs of the season! knotts-merry-farm-carolers-2

If you’re looking for Santa  you can find him, along with many festive holiday treats, inside of Santa’s Christmas Cabin. Commemorative Santa Photos are available for purchase.knotts-merry-farm-christmas-treeKnott’s is the perfect place to spend many a day together with friends and/or family creating new memories together, which is a great reason to grab a 2018 Knott’s Season Pass. They make great holiday gifts and include one free visit to enjoy Merry Farm in 2017, unlimited visits in 2018 with no blackout dates, discounts on select food and merchandise,  and access to exciting year-round seasonal events.knotts-merry-farm-holiday-decorA Regular Season Pass includes unlimited admission in 2018 to Knott’s Berry Farm and a Gold Season Pass includes unlimited admission in 2018 to both Knott’s Berry Farm and the newly expanded Knott’s Soak City Waterpark with no blackout dates. Now at the lowest price of the year, Regular Season Passes start at just $92.00 or six easy payments of $15.33 and Gold Season Passes are $110 or six payments of just $18.33.These offers end January 7, 2018.Applicable taxes and fees apply online. Payment plans are only available at knotts.com.
knotts-merry-farm-trainHave you been to Knott’s Merry Farm before? If so, share your favorite memory with me in the comments. Happy Holidays! knotts-merry-farm-family-2

 

{Giveaway} Winter Fest OC Returns to OC Fairgrounds December 21- January 7 + Enter to Win

This is not a sponsored post. All opinions are my own. 

Celebration Festivals is “bringing winter to the OC” with the return of Southern California’s largest winter tradition – Winter Fest at the OC Fair & Event Center.Winter-Fest-2017

This year, the forecast calls for 18 days of snow in a winter wonderland of fun as Winter Fest will run from December 21 through January 7, giving families additional time in the new year to enjoy more than 20 winter-y activities, brought back by popular demand. See Santa and his reindeer fly over the fairgrounds for four nights only before heading back to the North Pole on Christmas Day.winter-fest-2017-coverWinter Fest’s giant wonderland of family fun and date night charm is a great value with tickets available starting at only $10. Season passes are also available for all 18 days of Winter Fest to capture plenty of Instagram-worthy pictures. Every admission ticket includes:

  • Unlimited ice tubing down Snowflake Summit’s 150-foot, 8 lane mountain of ice
  • Snow Play area with real snow blown in daily – expanded this year!
  • Festival of Lights two-million-light stroll-through holiday displays – 7 new lands!
  • Nightly tree lighting celebration with parade of Winter Fest characters and snow flurries
  • fireworks and flying Santa and his Reindeer until he returns to the North Pole
  • Winter Fest themed bounce houses and slides for kids
  • The world’s largest walk-through ornament and rocking horse
  • Craft making and games in Santa’s workshop
  • Daily entertainment including live bands, magic from Jimmy H, and strolling carolers
  • Character live shows and meet and greets from popular cartoons such as Thomas the Train, Sid the Science Kid, PJ Masks, and Buddy from Dinosaur Train
  • Little Elves (Toddler) play area
  • Santa’s petting zoo
  • Arcade games
  • Snowboard Simulator

Additional attractions with a fee include:

  • Ice Skating on a full outdoor rink
  • Candy Cane carnival with more than 30 rides, attractions and games
  • Pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus in their cabin

winter-fest-oc-giant-ornamentEach night, Winter Fest will celebrate with a parade of winter characters, featuring Mayor Frost, Mrs. Claus, the Ice Princess, Penny the Penguin, carolers, Toy Soldiers on stilts, and elves. With the Winter Fest characters circled around the 30-foot-tall Christmas tree, Mayor Frost will light the tree and thrill the crowd with fireworks, falling snow, and a surprise appearance from Santa and his Reindeer flying overhead through Christmas Eve.winter-fest-oc-merry-go-roundPrivate, ice rink-side VIP cabanas start at only $69 per session, creating a destination for holiday office parties, birthday parties, family retreats or date nights. Each cabana will accommodate two to 10 people and can adapt to fit parties of up to 100 guests. The VIP cabanas offer exclusive menus with seasonally-inspired food, cocktails, a private ice rink entrance and private servers.winter-fest-oc-tubingNew Years Eve, Winter Fest plans to light up the sky with fireworks and a not-to-miss 3,000 beach-ball drop at midnight. For families looking for a fun experience to ring in the New Year with the East Coast, a special countdown, beach-ball drop and fireworks will be celebrated at 9pm.

I’m also having a giveaway for one (1) of my readers to win a family 4-pack of General Admission tickets to Winter Fest OC! Tickets may be used any of the days that Winter Fest is open. (Does not include ice skating, carnival rides or food) Giveaway will be open until 11;59 p.m. on 12/12/17. To enter, fill out the Rafflecopter form below. Good luck everyone!
a Rafflecopter giveaway

For more information on Winter Fest visit http://www.WinterFestOC.com and for the latest updates on entertainment, food and fun follow Winter Fest OC on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter or with #WinterFestOC.

Images and logo are property of Winter Fest OC.