Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade

Last week marked the 109th Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade in Newport Beach, CA. It's the longest-running lighted boat parade in the country and contains as many as 100 vessels of all types decorated for the holidays. The parade only runs for a few days each December and is a huge event that draws large crowds of spectators who watch from the shore, purchase tickets to ride on one of the many boats that are part of the parade, or if you're one of the millionaires that have a home or boat in Balboa, you have the pleasure of watching from your property (both of which host lavish parties taking place at the same time!).

When riding on a boat you have the opportunity to be part of the parade. Boats line up and cruise around the harbor allowing patrons to see spectacular homes and water crafts decorated to the nines. During the voyage, people watching the parade wave and shout good tidings to the passengers on the boats. It was pretty fun to experience so much holiday cheer. This was my first year attending and I definitely recommend riding on one of the boats for the unique experience, but my one complaint was that being on the boat limits your view of the other vessels. Next year I want to go again and watch from the shore.

Tips for the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade:

• Arrive several hours before your boat departs/the parade starts due to insane traffic and parking. And be prepared to walk a distance to get to your destination.
• Try to attend on the first or last night (Wednesday or Sunday) to see the fireworks show.
• Check out Groupon/Living Social several weeks before the parade to get big ticket discounts.
• Take your family! This is a fun things to do with kids and adults alike.

Fun note: this year Vicki Gunvalson of “Real Housewives of Orange County” was the Grand Marshall. It would have been fun to see her kick off the festivities, especially since I attended opening night, but I opted for the later parade time. Keep an eye out, maybe it'll be featured on next season of RHOC!

Aquarium of the Pacific Holiday Celebration

This December, visit Aquarium of the Pacific to experience a seasonal celebration, complete with Santa Diver, Penguin Walk, "fish"mas treats, holiday-themed characters, and more! The fun takes place December 2 through 24.

The Aquarium, although located in sunny Southern California, transforms into a winter wonderland fun for kids and adults alike. There's something magical about a big, bright Christmas tree surrounded by falling snow with a tank full of colorful sea life in the background! And in true marine fashion, see Santa swim with the fishes in between posing for pictures in his traditional attire.

On weekends, crafts, Hanukkah storytelling, and real snow are highlights not to be missed. And every day at 10 a.m., see penguins up close as they waddle their way to their habitat, marching in front of the otters in the Northern Gallery.

During a preview of the holiday experience, we got to interact with one of those penguins who hammed it up for the audience!

Admission to the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach is $29.95 for adults, $26.95 for seniors (62+), and $17.95 for children ages 3-11. For additional information on all of the holiday activities taking place, visit the Aquarium Holidays page.

Spark of Love Toy Drive 
A toy drive runs daily December 2 through 24 and supports the Long Beach Fire Department Spark of Love Toy Drive. Aquarium guests who donate a new, unwrapped toy – at a $15 value or more – will receive a coupon valid for $10 off adult/$3 off child, up to 4 total admissions. Aquarium members will receive a complimentary Aquarium admission ticket for each toy donated (max of 6).

Crystal Cove Christmas Tree

Christmastime in Southern California may not involve snow, but we find our ways to be festive. So when I heard about a Christmas tree right on the beach I knew I had to see it - and it was just as magical in person as I imagined!

Located at Crystal Cove, a section of coastline between Laguna and Newport beaches that's also referred to as Newport Coast, the tree is a bit hard to find if you don't know where you are going, but that's also part of it's charm. There were quite a few people making it hard to get unobstructed views in photos, but it wasn't as crowded as I expected and with a little patience I was able to get some good shots. I also went at sunset which I imagine is the most popular time.

The easiest way to find the beach and tree is to search for directions to The Beachcomber Café which will direct you to the Los Trancos lot across the street from the beach (which you can't actually see from the street). When you park in the lot you can either take a 5-10 minute walk on a path that leads under the street or you can take a Beachcomber shuttle for $1.50 a person each way. The lot parking is $5 an hour/$15 max or if you go to the Beachcomber and spend $15 you get three hours validated. The food at the restaurant is really good and I suggest that option!

The display is put on by Crystal Cove Alliance that preserves Crystal Cove, including historic beachfront cottages that you can rent. If you live locally, try to get out there to see it this year. Otherwise, add it to your bucket list for next year!

Sawdust Festival - Winter Fantasy

Yesterday I checked an item off my bucket list - the Sawdust Festival! Basically it's a craft fair that takes place in Laguna Beach in summer and winter (winter being the Winter Fantasy). And you know it's pretty awesome when Lauren Conrad attends. In fact, LC was in her hometown visiting the festival the day before we went. The setup is such that we probably would have seen her, too. So close!

I didn't end up purchasing anything because crafts being sold are pretty pricey, but it was still so fun to walk around the winter wonderland and explore with my friend.

I didn't end up purchasing anything because crafts being sold are pretty pricey, but it was still so fun to walk around the winter wonderland and explore with my friend.

Unfortunately, Sunday was the last day of the festival for2016. If you plan to visit during next summer or winter, set aside two hours to explore and $20 to park. Winter Fantasy tickets were $8 for adults, $4 for ages 6-12, and free for 5 and under, but be sure to check the Sawdust site for pricing in case anything changes.