Well hello {{first name | there}}
This weekend has lots going on…
You can sip cocktails under the chandeliers at the Ritz’s New Orleans pop-up… wander a flea market in Silverado… or settle into a candlelit theater while a string quartet takes on 90s hits.
There’s comedy (including one for a cause), ghosts in San Juan, line dancing in Irvine, yoga on a farm, and yes… just two spots left for Align & Design if you’ve been meaning to sign up.
Keep scrolling and make a plan!
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 FEB 27th ~~
🕯️ Candlelight: 90s Unplugged
A string quartet brings iconic ’90s hits to life under candlelight inside the art deco beauty of the Lido Theater.
Thu, Feb 27 | 8:15pm | Lido Theater, Newport Beach
🎭 The Cottage
A laugh-out-loud British comedy packed with secrets, surprise guests, and very bad timing inside a countryside love nest.
Feb 27 – Mar 22 | Times vary | Cabrillo Playhouse, San Clemente
🎤 Comedy for a Cause Fundraiser
Enjoy a night of stand-up at the Irvine Improv featuring Chris Porter, finalist on Last Comic Standing and seen on Comedy Central. proceeds support OC Sober Gals and women in recovery.
Fri, Feb 27 | Show 7:30pm | Irvine Improv, Irvine
👻 Capistrano Ghost Walk
A nighttime tour through Old Town San Juan Capistrano sharing eerie tales of spirits, bandits, and the 1812 Mission earthquake.
Fri, Feb 27 | 7pm | San Juan Capistrano
😂 Left Coast Comedy with Luke Binkow
Stand-up hits the Left Coast Tasting Room with sharp, high-energy sets from top local comics.
Fri, Feb 27 | 7:30–9pm | Left Coast Brewing Co., San Clemente
🛍️ Sugar Plum Festival
A giant sprawl of handmade goods, vintage finds, antiques, and collectibles.
Fri–Sun, Feb 27–Mar 1 | OC Fair & Event Center, Costa Mesa
Scroll down to see what’s happening next week and beyond:
➡️ NEXT WEEK
🎶 🎶 Checkout This Weekend’s Live Music Options
~~ SATURDAY FEB 28th ~~
🎨 Align & Design: Art Journaling Workshop
Only 2 More Spots! A 2.5-hour guided workshop where you’ll create a handmade art journal to manifest your dreams (like a vision board but better) All materials + light breakfast and mimosas included.
Sat, Feb 28 | 10am–12:30pm | Mission Viejo
🛍️ Silverado Canyon Flea Market & Artisan Fair
A laid-back canyon market with vintage finds, handmade goods, and local vendors set against rustic Silverado charm.
Sat, Feb 28 | 9am–2pm | Silverado Canyon Community Center, Silverado Canyon
🏃 Oso Fit 5K Fun Run & Community Health Fair
Run or walk the Oso Creek Trail, cheer on the kids’ races, and explore a free community health fair.
Sat, Feb 28 | 7:30–11am | Murray Community Center, Mission Viejo
🤠 Knockin’ Boots Line Dancing
Lessons kick off at 6pm, then it’s boots-on-the-floor until late.
Feb 28 | 6–10pm | Knowlwood | Irvine
🛍️ Dreamers Market Sip n’ Stroll
Spend your Saturday sipping, strolling, and shopping through Old Town Tustin with local vendors and small businesses lining the streets for this community market.
Sat, Feb 28 | 12-5 pm | Old Town Tustin
Scroll down to see what’s happening next week and beyond:
➡️ NEXT WEEK
🎶 🎶 Checkout South OC Live Music Options
The Key To Quality Sleep
USDA organic Sleep Gummies are designed to help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. The best part? They’re made without melatonin, so you can skip the weird dreams and the next-day grogginess.
Each gummy combines full-spectrum hemp with calming botanicals, including valerian root, chamomile, and lavender. They work naturally to help relax your body and quiet your mind, promoting a restful sleep cycle. Because good days start with great nights!
Save 30% off your first order with code GOODFEELS
~~ SUNDAY MARCH 1st ~~
🌿 Yoga on the Farm
Flow, meditate, and unwind with a gentle outdoor yoga session and sound bath at Sendero Farm. Bring your mat and soak in the peaceful farm setting.
March 1 | 9-10am | Sendero Farm, Mission Viejo
🫖 Bridgerton Tea at Morning Lavender
An afternoon of Regency-inspired tea with sweet treats, delicate sips, and live music — florals and dramatic flair encouraged.
Fri, Feb 27 + Sun, Mar 1 | Morning Lavender, Tustin
🎤 Debby Boone & Pat Boone
A nostalgic evening of pop, jazz, Broadway, and storytelling as Debby Boone performs hits and classics, joined by her legendary father for a special appearance.
Sun, Mar 1 | Doors 5pm, Show 7pm | Coach House Concert Hall, San Juan Capistrano
🎳 Lucky Strike Bowling Night- Save 20%
A polished take on bowling with full bar service, upgraded food, and a sleek lounge feel.
Any night | Lucky Strike/ Bowlero | Aliso Viejo or Ladera Ranch
Scroll down to see what’s happening next week and beyond:
➡️ NEXT WEEK
🎶 🎶 Checkout South OC Live Music Options
🤔 Name That Spot
Which Orange County city is home to a neighborhood of mid-century modern homes built by Joseph Eichler in 1960?
A) Costa Mesa
B) Orange
C) Tustin
D) Santa Ana
(Scroll to bottom for answer)
🌈🦄 Nice News
🍸 New Orleans Bar Pop-Up at the Ritz
A Top 50 bar in the U.S. (freshly crowned by Food & Wine) is rolling into the Ritz-Carlton’s Lobby Bar in Dana Point for a limited residency, bringing French Quarter vibes with craft cocktails and live cocktail singers.
🐾 Off-Leash Dog Park Moves Forward in San Clemente
San Gorgonio Park is the preferred site for San Clemente’s future off-leash dog park after strong survey support from 800+ residents. The plan includes one main park plus a possible dog run at Bonita Canyon, with design details still to come.
🎨 New Outdoor Photo Exhibit in Mission Viejo
Mission Viejo’s Parkway Gallery has unveiled a new public art display featuring landscape photography by local artist Rose Fredenhall. The large-scale images are installed on the pillars along Crown Valley Parkway and Marguerite Parkway.
🍽️ K’ya Laguna Makes a Long-Awaited Comeback
After nearly four years, the beloved Laguna Beach staple has reopened at La Casa Del Camino with a fresh look and a Spanish-inspired menu of shareable plates, craft cocktails, and live music.
⛽ Costco Fuel Station Approved in Mission Viejo
A standalone Costco gas facility is coming to 25732 El Paseo in the Mission Viejo Freeway Center. Plans include 40 pumps under a 17,000+ sq ft canopy, plus office and employee space. Construction is underway, completion targeted for Summer 2026.
🍊 RHOC Season 20 Is Officially Filming
The Real Housewives of Orange County has hit a major milestone with Season 20 now in production. Heather Dubrow, Tamra Judge, Shannon Beador, Gina Kirschenheiter, Jennifer Pedranti, Emily Simpson, and returning OG Vicki Gunvalson are confirmed back, while Katie Ginella and Gretchen Rossi are out. Streaming continues on Peacock.
🗓️ NEXT WEEK…
✏️ Add these events to your Calendar
MONDAY MARCH 2nd
🎷 Jazz Lab Concert
An evening of live jazz featuring talented Saddleback College musicians in the McKinney Theatre.
Mon, Mar 2 | 7:30pm | Saddleback College, Mission Viejo
Badlands Park Hike
Three scenic miles through sandstone cliffs and coastal canyon views. Dog-friendly.
Mon, Mar 2 | 6pm | Laguna Niguel
🏓 Ping Pong
Drop-in ping pong games. All skill levels welcome.
Mondays, through Mar 30 | 12–2pm | Aliso Viejo Ranch | Aliso Viejo
TUESDAY MARCH 3rd
🌱 Microgreen Madness
Grow tiny greens with big payoff in this hands-on gardening workshop.
Tues, Mar 3 | 10am | OC Public Libraries, Laguna Woods
🥟 Empanada Tuesday at Villa Roma
All cooked empanadas are half off — stock up or eat them fresh out of the oven.
Tues, Mar 3 | 9am–8pm | Villa Roma, Laguna Hills
WEDNESDAY MARCH 4th
🎭 The Shark is Broken
A hilarious comedy takes you on a deep dive into making a major motion picture with zesty, feuding co-stars. Shaw, Dryfuss and Scheider take center stage as they bond, argue, drink, gamble, and pray for an end to the shoot.
Weds, Mar 4 thru Sun, Mar 22 | Laguna Playhouse, Laguna Beach
💃 Latin Ballroom Dance
Learn the basics of salsa, bachata, merengue, and samba — with a focus on style and confidence on the dance floor.
Wednesdays, Mar 4–May 27 | 7–8pm | Community Center, RSM
🌺 Adult Beginner Hula Class
Join Hālau Hula Lani Ola for a welcoming beginner session—learn the basics, connect with community, and move to the rhythm of the islands.
Session begins on Weds, Mar 4 | 5:30pm | Laguna Hills
THURSDAY MARCH 5th
🎨 Reflections on Water: The Artistry of Ryan Jensen
An opening reception for Ryan Jensen’s solo exhibition exploring maritime scenes along the California coast. Meet the artist. Free.
Thurs, Mar 5 | 6:30–9 pm | Moulton Museum, Laguna Hills
🎩 Comedy+ Magic for Adults
An adults-only comedy magic by Eric Eaton, packed with sharp humor, illusions, and mischief.
Thurs, Mar 5 | 8pm | Irvine Improv, Irvine
🎨 First Thursdays Art Walk
Laguna Beach throws open its gallery doors once a month for a self-guided evening of art, culture, and creative wandering.
First Thursday of every month | 6-9pm | Laguna Beach
FRIDAY MARCH 6th
🐳 Dana Point Festival of Whales
Three days dedicated to the California gray whale migration with parades, harbor events, live music, hands-on activities, and prime whale watching.
Fri–Sun, Mar 6–8 | Dana Point Harbor | Dana Point
Dana Point Festival of Whales Carnival
Rides, games, and classic fair food roll in as part of the 55th Annual Festival of Whales.
Mar 6–8 | Afternoon hours | Lantern Bay Park, Dana Point
🕯️ Queen vs. The Beatles by Candlelight
A string quartet performs the biggest hits from Queen and The Beatles—Bohemian Rhapsody, Here Comes the Sun, We Will Rock You, and more—set against the oceanfront elegance of The Ritz-Carlton under candlelight.
Fri, Mar 6 | 8:45pm | The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel, Dana Point
🤠 Cowboy Canyon Nights
Line dancing, beer & wine, and local vendors take over Giracci Vineyards for this high-energy country night under the Silverado sky.
Fri, March 6 | 6–10pm | Silverado
SATURDAY MARCH 7th
🎈 Magical Migration Parade
A classic Dana Point parade with oversized balloons, colorful floats, and a family-friendly crowd.
Sat, Mar 7, 2026 | 10am | Dana Point Harbor | Dana Point
🪩 El Presidente Ball
Step back into early California at this signature Swallows season event celebrating the roots of San Juan Capistrano.
Sat, Mar 7, 2026 | 6–10pm | El Adobe de Capistrano | San Juan Capistrano
🏮 Lantern Festival
Celebrate the first full moon of the lunar calendar with glowing lanterns, cultural performances, lantern decorating.
Sat, Mar 7 | Segerstrom Concert Hall, Costa Mesa
🎨 Elephant Paint & Sip
A guided painting class where you’ll create your own elephant masterpiece while you sip.
Sat, Mar 7 | 6–8pm | Gallery Dana Bay, Dana Point
🎨 California Cool Art Auction
Laguna Art Museum’s signature fundraising night featuring a live auction, silent bidding, and a lively paddle-raise celebrating California artists.
Sat, Mar 7 | Evening | Laguna Art Museum, Laguna Beach
📚 Katie Wheeler Library Grand Opening
Celebrate the newest Irvine Public Library location with a ribbon cutting, entertainment, and family-friendly activities.
Sat, Mar 7 | 10am–12pm | Katie Wheeler Library, Irvine
🌸 A New Season of Art Arrives in Irvine
Exhibition exploring renewal and transformation through painting, sculpture, and mixed media.
Free Opening Reception: Fri, Mar 7 | 2–4pm | Irvine Fine Arts Center, Irvine
On view Mar 7–May 16
🐝 Bee Hotel Workshop
Build a bee hotel and learn how to support local pollinators.
Sat, Mar 7 | 11am | El Toro Library, Lake Forest
SUNDAY MARCH 8th
🍽️ OC Restaurant Week
Restaurants across Orange County roll out special menus for one week only. No tickets or passes needed.
Sun, Mar 8–Sat, Mar 14 | Participating Restaurants | Orange County
🕯️ Fleetwood Mac by Candlelight
A string quartet tribute brings Dreams, Landslide, The Chain, and more to life under candlelight at the oceanfront Ritz-Carlton.
Select Dates & Times | 60 Minutes | The Ritz-Carlton, Dana Point
🌿 Nature Meditation Walk
A gentle guided walk through Laguna Coast Wilderness Park with quiet reflection, light mindfulness moments, and a closing tea ceremony made from native plants.
Sun, Mar 8 | 9–11am | Nix Nature Center, Laguna Beach
🚗 Cars & Café
A laid-back morning of classic cars, custom builds, coffee, food, and raffles—spectators and photographers welcome.
Sun, Mar 8 | 8–10am | River Street Marketplace, San Juan Capistrano
🛍️ Coast Vintage Market
Authentic vintage from highly curated collections to family treasures—every booth is a surprise. Free admission and parking.
Sun, Mar 8 | 8 AM–3pm | Laguna Hills Mall Parking Lot, Laguna Hills
🎶 Concert on the Water
Live bands perform from a floating stage just offshore while you relax on the sand with beach chairs and blankets. Free .
Sun, Mar 8 | 12–5pm | Baby Beach, Dana Point
✏️ PLAN FURTHER AHEAD:
To see what’s happening even further ahead, check out our full Event Finder listing.
New events added daily…
📸 This Weeks Snapshot
Last weekend we stopped by the O’Neill Museum in downtown San Juan Capistrano, a restored 1870s adobe tucked along Los Rios Street.
The O’Neill family played a key role in preserving it, and today it’s a time capsule of early ranch life, complete with original-era furnishings and stories that shaped South OC.
At more than 150 years old, it has the creaky floors to prove it and depending on who you ask, a ghost or two!
Make a day of it: wander Los Rios, check out the museum then grab a margarita at El Adobe.
📍 O’Neill Museum
31831 Los Rios St, San Juan Capistrano
🎥 Watch the video to step inside.
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:
✅ B — City of Orange
These homes were built in 1960 by Joseph Eichler as part of his mission to bring modern architecture to everyday families. Eichler believed good design should not be reserved for the wealthy.
His homes featured open floor plans, indoor atriums, radiant heating, and walls of glass to create affordable, light-filled, indoor-outdoor living.
The Orange tract, of 84 homes often referred to as Fairmeadow, is one of only two Eichler communities in Orange County. The other tract is in Anaheim with 76 homes, built a few years later.
While Eichler built thousands of homes in Northern California, OC only got a small, design-forward slice. That’s why this pocket in Orange still feels like a mid-century time capsule.
It’s A Wrap..
🎈Not yet a subscriber? You’ll get early access to The Scene—delivered every Wednesday at 8:45pm! Sign up here.
🙋♀️ Have an event you want to list? Learn more
📰 Want to advertise? Learn more
🥱 Boring Stuff
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.