Happy Wednesday!
Big news just dropped for South OC concert lovers:
1. Ohana Festival released its 2026 lineup, and people are setting their alarms for the presale tomorrow morning.
Pearl Jam, Eddie Vedder, Tyler Childers, Alabama Shakes, Billy Idol, and Mana are all headed to Doheny this September, with presale access opening tomorrow (Thursday at 10am)
2. Also… somehow it’s already summer concert season again. We rounded them up into one easy-to-navigate page so you can stop bouncing between city websites trying to figure out who’s playing where. Find that here.
To all the new readers, welcome to The Scene… Our motto is: the more you know, the more you’ll go. That’s what this newsletter is all about, sharing ideas big and small to make it easier (and more fun) to get out and enjoy OC.
See you out there!
Lorna & Jason
What's Inside...
🗓️ THIS WEEKEND’S PICKS
~~ FRIDAY MAY 15th ~~
🪼 Bioluminescence Night Cruise
A glowing after-dark ocean experience—watch the water light up as you cruise Dana Point Harbor with marine experts.
May 14–17 | 8:30pm | Ocean Institute, Dana Point
🌅 Sunset Serenades: Street Corner Renaissance
Doo-wop a cappella with classic harmonies by the coast.
Fri, May 15 | 6:30pm | Heisler Park Amphitheater, Laguna Beach
🎸 Live Music at Oso Creek
An outdoor summer concert kickoff with a high-energy ‘80s tribute band, plus drinks and a special event menu in a garden-style setting. It’s free.
Fri, May 15 | 6–8pm | Oso Creek Golf Course, Mission Viejo
☘️ Riverdance
The iconic Irish dance spectacular returns for its 30th anniversary, blending thunderous footwork, live music, and breathtaking choreography.
May 15 – 17, 2026 | Times vary | Segerstrom Hall, Costa Mesa
🎤 Linda Ronstadt Experience
American Idol star Tristan McIntosh delivers a stunning tribute to former superstar Linda Ronstadt with a powerhouse backing band.
May 15–17, 2026 | Laguna Playhouse, Laguna Beach
🛍️ Mermade Market
A curated 3-day market with a mix of indoor shopping (grab a basket, browse at your own pace) and outdoor vendors, plus live music, food, and a fun, festival feel.
May 15–17 | Community House, Dana Point
🎶 🎶 Checkout all of this weekend’s Live Music Options
➡️ NEXT WEEK
Scroll down to see events happening next week and beyond.
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~~ SATURDAY MAY 16th ~~
🎶 Phil Collins & Genesis Tribute Night
“In The Air Tonight” brings the hits from Phil Collins and Genesis to The Coach House where every seat is close to the stage.
Sat, May 16 | The Coach House, San Juan Capistrano
🍷 Spring Vintage Wine Walk
An afternoon of wine, bites, and strolling through downtown San Juan with tastings from 16+ local spots, plus live music at River Street Marketplace.
Sat, May 16 | 2–6pm | Downtown, San Juan Capistrano
🎉 Fiesta Night Market
Tacos, live music, margaritas, and a beer garden with local makers mixed in—basically a Friday night with better decisions.
Sat, May 16 | 5–9pm | North Paseo at Los Osos, Mission Viejo
💧 Water Festival
A lively, family-friendly event with hands-on exhibits, wildlife encounters, live shows, and interactive activities focused on water and sustainability.
Sat, May 16 | 10am–1pm | Rancho Santa Margarita
🛍️ Handmade Market in Irvine
Two sunny days of handmade vendors, live music, kids crafts, and pet-friendly stroll-around energy—the kind of easy outing that somehow turns into three hours.
May 16–17 | 10am–4pm | Woodbridge Village Center, Irvine
✨ Glow Festival
An open-air beauty and wellness market with curated brands, shopping, samples, pop-ups, and plenty of photo ops.
Sat, May 16 | 12–5pm | The District at Tustin Legacy, Tustin
👒 Garden Tea & Derby-Style Fashion Show
Dress up in your best hat and settle in for an afternoon of tea, finger sandwiches, and a full-on garden party vibe—plus a fashion show and raffle to keep things lively.
Sat, May 16 | 12–3pm | Dr. Willella Howe-Waffle House, Santa Ana
🍺 Brew at the Zoo
Sip craft beer from 20+ breweries while wandering the Santa Ana Zoo after hours because honestly, IPA tastes better near a capybara.
Sat, May 16 | 5–8pm | Santa Ana Zoo, Santa Ana
~~ SUNDAY MAY 17th ~~
🎨 Balboa Island Artwalk
Stroll a mile of local art, live music, and seaside vibes along Balboa Island’s bayfront. Free to attend and perfect for a spring day in the sun.
Sun, May 17, 2026 | 9am–5pm | Newport Beach
🌿 Yoga on the Farm
Morning yoga, meditation, and a sound bath surrounded by open air and farm scenery.
Sun, May 17 | 9am | Sendero Farm, Mission Viejo
🤠 Line Dancing at Knowlwood
Country music, dancing, and boots on the floor at Knowlwood Restaurant for this Sunday night line dancing session.
Sun, May 17 | 4–8pm | Knowlwood, Irvine
🚗 Cigars & Cars Charity Showcase
Exotic cars, premium cigars, and a polished country-club-meets-car-meet vibe come together for this upscale charity event.
Sun, May 17 | 11am–2pm | Onyx Indoor Golf & Café, Lake Forest
🔮 Crystal Bowl Sound Bath
Sink into a candlelit sound bath surrounded by crystal singing bowls and soft harmonic vibrations.
Sun, May 17 | 7pm | Alchemy Bowl Sound Temple, Laguna Beach
🎶 🎶 Checkout all of this weekend’s Live Music Options
➡️ NEXT WEEK
Scroll down to see events happening next week and beyond.
Live Music 🎶 🎶 🎶
Whether you’re looking for some relaxing acoustic guitar, an upbeat jazz ensemble, a folky singer-songwriter, or some good old rock ‘n’ roll… we have it listed!
Hundreds of live music events from all your favorite locations around South OC…
New events added weekly !
Summer Concert Series
It’s already summer concert season again. We rounded them up into one easy-to-navigate page so you can stop bouncing between city websites trying to figure out who’s playing where…
🤔 Trivia Time
Which four-time Olympic gold medalist and diving icon attended Mission Viejo High School?
A. Michael Phelps
B. Mark Spitz
C. Tom Daley
D. Greg Louganis
(Scroll to bottom for answer)
🦄 🌈 Nice News
💋 Palm Springs Plans Marilyn Monroe World Record Attempt
Palm Springs is celebrating what would have been Marilyn Monroe’s 100th birthday with an attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the largest gathering of people dressed as Marilyn Monroe. The event takes place May 30 near the city’s famous “Forever Marilyn” statue.
☕ New Late-Night Coffee Spot in Mission Viejo
Americano’s Coffee recently opened in Mission Viejo, serving organic coffee, matcha drinks, teas, and house-made sweet creams in a cozy café setting. One thing that stands out: they’re open until 10pm, making it one of the few late-night coffee options in the area.
🏒 Ducks Win = BOGO Ice Skating
When the Ducks win during the playoffs, participating OC ice rinks offer buy-one-get-one free public skating the following day. Locations include Anaheim Ice, Great Park Ice in Irvine, Irvine Inline, Yorba Linda Ice, and KHS Ice.
✈️ Aviation Museum Coming to Irvine
The Great Park is getting a major new addition in spring 2027: the Flying Leatherneck Aviation Museum, featuring more than 40 historic Marine Corps aircraft plus aviation exhibits, education programs, and a research library.
Did you know? John Wayne Airport also has its own aviation museum. The Lyon Air Museum showcases rare vintage aircraft, military vehicles, and classic cars right next to the runway in Santa Ana.
⚡ Disneyland’s Autopia Is Going Electric
After 70 years of gasoline fumes and tiny traffic jams, Disneyland is finally giving Autopia an electric makeover. Disney has started designing and testing fully electric ride vehicles, with plans to retire the current gas-powered cars in early 2027.
🗓️ NEXT WEEK…
✏️ Add these events to your Calendar
MONDAY MAY 18th
🎪 Circus Vargas
Acrobats, daredevils, and classic circus magic under the big top for one last night in San Clemente. T
Last night: Sun, May 18 | Circus Vargas, San Clemente
TUESDAY MAY 19th
🤠 Line Dancing with Champagne Cowgirl
Boot-scootin’, country tunes, and a packed dance floor at Swallows Inn with Champagne Cowgirl leading the fun.
Tues, May 19 | Swallows Inn, San Juan Capistrano
🎤 K-Pop Dance Night
Learn high-energy K-pop choreography in a fun, beginner-friendly outdoor class.
May 19 & 26 | 6:30pm | Argyros Plaza, Costa Mesa
WEDNESDAY MAY 20th
Line Dancing
Goody’s Tavern, 7pm, San Clemente
Shorecliffs Golf Club, 4pm, San Clemente
Bigshots Billiards, 8pm, Lake Forest
Murray Community Center, 9:15am, Mission Viejo
THURSDAY MAY 21st
🎤 Pam Tillis Live + Jolene Dixon
Grammy-winning country artist with multiple No. 1 hits like “Maybe It Was Memphis” and “Mi Vida Loca,” bringing decades of hits to the stage, joined by rising country-pop artist Jolene Dixon.
Thu, May 21 | 8pm | The Coach House, San Juan Capistrano
🎨 Reflections on Water Closing Reception
See Ryan Jensen’s moody coastal paintings before the exhibit wraps, with a final evening reception celebrating his California-inspired works. Free
Thu, May 21 | 6:30–8pm | Moulton Museum, Laguna Hills
FRIDAY MAY 22nd
🎶 Coldplay + U2 Tribute Night
Two back-to-back tribute bands—Coldplay USA and The U2xPERIENCE—bringing all the anthems from “Yellow” to “With or Without You.”
Fri, May 22 | 8pm (6pm doors) | The Coach House, San Juan Capistrano
💃 Salsa Dancing Night at River Street
A free, social dance night with beginner-friendly instruction, upbeat music, and an open dance floor. No partner needed—just show up and move.
Fri, May 22 | 6–9pm | River Street Marketplace, San Juan Capistrano
🌅 Sunset Serenades
Free sunset concert in Laguna
Fri, May 22 | 6:30pm | Heisler Park Amphitheater, Laguna Beach
🏠 Home, I’m Darling
A sharp, funny, slightly dark comedy that peels back the picture-perfect 1950s fantasy to reveal what’s really going on underneath.
May 22 – June 14 | Cabrillo Playhouse, San Clemente
🎪 Circus Vargas
The big top rolls into Laguna Hills with acrobats, aerialists, and family-friendly circus thrills. Expect two hours of high-flying stunts and classic circus fun.
May 22–Jun 8 | Circus Vargas, Laguna Hills
SATURDAY MAY 23rd
🎸 The English Beat at The Coach House
The legendary ska band behind “Mirror in the Bathroom” and “Save It for Later” returns for two nights of high-energy ‘80s hits.
Sat, May 23 | The Coach House, San Juan Capistrano
🌶️ Chili Cook-Off in Mission Viejo
Sample chili from 20+ cooks, plus live music, beer and wine, all supporting scholarships for local students.
Sat, May 23 | 11am–2pm | Murray Center, Mission Viejo
🚙 Trucks, Bikes & Coffee Meetup
Classic trucks and bikes (1950s–mid ’90s), all ages welcome. Free and open to the public.
Sat, May 23 | 9–11am | San Juan Capistrano
🌙 Lake Forest Eats
Street food, local vendors, shopping, and night-market vibes take over ONYX Golf for one lively Friday night in Lake Forest.
Sat, May 23 | 5–9pm | ONYX Golf, Lake Forest
🛍️ Old Towne Vintage Market
A laid-back vintage market with 30+ vendors, live DJ, and a mix of clothing, decor, and finds worth digging for—plus coffee, food, and cocktails to keep you fueled.
Sat, May 23 | 11am–4pm | American Legion Post 132, Orange
🏴 Scottish Fest Returns
Cabers will fly, kilts will swirl, and the Highland Games take over OC for a weekend of strength, music, and Scottish tradition.
Sat & Sun, May 23–24 | OC Fair & Event Center, Costa Mesa
SUNDAY MAY 24th
🤠 Dana Point Trolley Hop
Ride the trolley stop-to-stop with a $5 wristband unlocking food and drink specials at local spots—country theme, bandanas for the early birds.
Sun, May 24 | 12–5pm | Dana Point, Dana Point
✏️ PLAN FURTHER AHEAD:
To see what’s happening even further ahead, check out our full Event Finder listing. There’s 100’s of ideas, and fun things to do, to help you get out and enjoy OC.
New events added daily !
In Case You Missed It…
😍5 South OC Dive Bars Locals Still Love
🏠OC Has 3 Pockets of Mid-Century-Modern Homes You’ve Probably Never Seen
🌄 Red Rock Canyon Feels Like a Mini Sedona But it’s Right in Lake Forest
📸 This Weeks Snapshot
And for Mother’s Day last Sunday… we took a trip down to The Ecology Center in San Juan Capistrano for an immersive tour, followed by lunch.
We started off our activities in the Peace Dome exploring mind/body/spirit wellbeing. (They regularly have various yoga classes, soundhealing, Qi Gong classes - check them out).
Then we enjoyed a slow field walk through some of their 28-acre organic farm. We picked a few strawberries in the glorious sunshine - amazingly tasty. (Join them on Friday May 15th for Strawberry-U-Pick).
And we finished off with an amazing lunch: freshly squeezed juices, sourdough flatbreads cooked in their outdoor oven, and a variety of salads and vegetables picked fresh from the fields.
About Us:
Lorna’s an OC native who has lived in Spain, France and New Zealand but always returns home for the tacos, the trails, and the beautiful tree-lined streets of Mission Viejo.
Jason’s a Brit who swapped pub life for paddleboards and now splits his time between aquascaping and crafting perfect cocktails. We started The Scene because there’s so much to see, do, and savor.
Thanks for letting us be a small part of your weekend.
🧐 Trivia Answer:
✅ D — Greg Louganis
Greg Louganis attended Mission Viejo High School before becoming one of the greatest divers in Olympic history.
At just 16 years old, Louganis won Olympic silver, launching a career that would eventually earn him four gold medals. He later swept both the 3-meter springboard and 10-meter platform events at the 1984 and 1988 Olympics, a feat no other male diver has matched in consecutive Games.
During his years training in Mission Viejo, the city became nationally known for producing elite divers, helping earn its reputation as a diving powerhouse. 🏊♂️
It’s A Wrap..
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Publication Disclaimer: Everything included here is accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication. It is always best to double-check links to be sure event information hasn’t changed if you plan on attending something.
*Affiliate Disclaimer: This publication contains affiliate links which means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We only share things we believe in. Anything you buy through our affiliate links supports the ongoing publication of The Scene. We greatly appreciate your trust in us. Thank you!
©️ 2025 The Scene: South OC | All content and information set forth above was created by Lorna Ladd and Jason Ladd and is the intellectual property of this publication. It is protected under US copyright law, including but not limited to “The Digital Millennium Copyright Act.” Unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or duplication of any material, in whole or in part, without express written authorization & consent, is strictly prohibited by law and may result in legal action. Violators will be subject to prosecution to the fullest extent of the law.