Cirque Mei Comes to Segerstrom Center for the Arts Sept 14-15 #SCFTA

Photo Credit to Segerstrom Center for the Arts – Cirque Mei

This weekend my family will embark on a colorful, theatrical, and acrobatic journey…

Cirque Mei is coming to Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa September 14-15! Join us and share many jaw dropping moments while we watching some of China’s most sensational acrobats LIVE on stage.

Renowned acrobatic troupe Cirque Mei comes to Segerstrom Center for the Arts for two performances September 14 and 15 in the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall. From the People’s Republic of China, Cirque Mei brings a colorful celebration of traditional and contemporary Chinese circus acts. The company travels with a community of more than 130 circus performers who tour throughout China and the world performing many of the most popular Chinese circus routines, including hoops diving, Lion Dance, collective bicycle skills, flying meteors, foot juggling with umbrellas, female contortion and a ladder balancing act. 

About Cirque Mei

With a company of 40 elite circus artists and acrobats, these performances will include many of the most popular Chinese circus routines including Hoops Diving, Lion Dance, Collective Bicycle Skills, Flying Meteors, Foot Juggling with Umbrellas, Female Contortion, and Ladder Balancing Act.

Cirque Mei was founded in 1976 and supports a community of over 130 circus performers who tour throughout China and the world.

Photo Credit to Segerstrom Center for the Arts – Cirque Mei

Single tickets start at $29 and are available now online at www.SCFTA.org,

CIRQUE MEI
Segerstrom Center for the Arts – Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall
600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, CA

Photo Credit to Segerstrom Center for the Arts – Cirque Mei

Hope to see you there!

Saturday, September 14 at 8:00 p.m.

Sunday, September 15 at 2:00 p.m.

In Person –     The Box Office
                         600 Town Center Drive
                         Costa Mesa, CA 92626
                         Open 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. daily

Online –           SCFTA.org 

Phone –           (714) 556-2787
                         Open 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. daily

Group Sales –  (714) 755-0236
                          Open 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday – Friday

CHOC WALK 2019: Elisha & Jerrica

I have a lot of things to be grateful for…

CHOC Hospital has been a HUGE part of our lives. My daughter Elisha was born with a really rare chromosome abnormality (Chromosome 4q deletion), and also my niece Jerrica battled Leukemia 5 years ago. This year, I will walk the CHOC WALK for both Elisha and Jerrica…

CHOC-Walk

Read more about Jerrica’s story here.

They say that God only gives you what you can handle, but this has definitely been a very difficult journey for my family. I don’t usually write about this on my blog, because it’s very hard for me to open up and discuss this publicly. Elisha requires 24 hour care and nursing. She is in and out of the hospital, for numerous ongoing medical issues. It’s just become part of our “norm.”

I’ve decided to finally come out of my shell, and share our story. I feel this is important because I want to show my gratitude for everything CHOC has done for Elisha and Jerrica.

Carlos and I were young parents, and we had no idea of the amount of medical care that Elisha would need. CHOC was there for us from the very beginning. They helped us manage her care, and get the best medical treatments available. The doctors at CHOC were very compassionate, and helped us tremendously throughout most of her childhood.

Her pediatrician, Dr. Teresa Hollander, was wonderful and was very attentive. She often called us after her office hours at home, when Elisha was sick or not feeling well. She also helped us with her transition to adulthood.

Her life expectancy was only 7, but she is now she is 27 years old. I cannot say that I have done this alone. My incredible parents, familia, Dr. Hollander, and the sensational CHOC staff have been a HUGE part of her story.

This year I will walk for my daughter Elisha and my niece Jerrica!

Muchismas Gracias CHOC, we could have not done this without you!

Join me Sunday, August 11th at the 2019 CHOC WALK In the Park! Join my team or donate to #JerrBear here.

Event Day Details

  • Sunday, August 11, 2019
  • Main Street opens – 5:30 AM
  • Opening ceremony Main Street U.S.A. – 6:00 AM
  • Entrance cutoff time: 7:15 AM
  • 5K walk through Disneyland® Park and Disney California Adventure® Park.
  • Early Bird Registration $85 per person (3 and older)
  • Late Registration $95 after July 29, 2019.
  •  Walkers ages 2 and under FREE
  • CHOC Walk information booth will be available morning of for questions. 

Parking

  • FREE Parking at the Disneyland® Resort will be available for all CHOC Walk participants.
  • Parking structure opens at 4:00 AM

Good Eats: Mess Hall Market Now Open In Tustin

Written by: Victoria Eliana Camacho

Drool Alert!

Hey fellow foodie friends… There is a new modern and chic eatery in town. Check it out!

On Saturday, July 20th we hit Mess Hall Market in Tustin for their grand opening. It is located on the campus of  Flight at Tustin Legacy, the premier food hall features a collection of critically acclaimed OC innovative chefs under one roof, such as Chef Danny Godinez of Anepalco and Chef Andrew Gruel of Slapfish fame.

We also tried fresh concepts from the teams behind Another Kind Cafe, The Lost Bean, and more! We were are still in a food coma after trying all these delicious and innovative dishes.

Here is a photo recap of some to of the dishes we tried…

Thank you Mess Hall Market for inviting us to your grand opening. All opinions are my own.

We started our foodieventure with this delicious Acai Bowl from The Lost Bean. They also serve fresh brewed coffee, and smoothies. OMG the blended “Mocha Monkey” was insane good.

” Team Player” from the Fowl Play

“Crab Roll” from Slapfish on toasted bread roll. Yummm…

Photo credit to Slapfish

This “Traditional Lobster Roll” from Slapfish is served with warm tossed lightly drawn butter, mayo and lemon…

Photo credit to The Drink Bar

📍 The Drink Bar offers delicious craft drinks…

Cheers!

These loaded “Awesome Fries” were all that and some! (not for the weak of heart)

Photo credit to Fonda Moderna

¡Mas Tacas porfa! (more tacos please) from Fonda Moderna. They also have delicious guisados, seafood, and vegan options.

Check out this burger BEAST ” The Ultimate Patty Melt” from The Sandwich Society!

There is both an indoor and outdoor seating. Gotta love this view!

About Mess Hall Market

Mess Hall Market is FLIGHT’s chef-driven market food hall, offering a wide assortment of mouthwatering food and beverage options.

Start your day with gourmet coffee and an invigorating breakfast, and finish it with a drink (or fresh squeezed juice) and dinner from our full service bar and culinary shops. In between, make the most of your lunch break by stopping in for a quick bite or a working lunch with coworkers and friends in our one of a kind dining environment.

Address: 1705 Flight Way, Ste 8 Tustin, CA 92782

Hours: Mon-Sun 7 a.m.- 9 p.m .

!Salud! Victoria Eliana Camacho, goes by “Tori.” This = SoCal Latina loves to write, eat, travel, and explore. She enjoys indulging in new experiences, and share them with others. She works as an office admin in OC, and is also full time college student, majoring in Business.

Disneyland Insider Tips: Prepping for Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge


Written By: Vanessa Bañuelos-Dawson

Disneyland warmly welcomed its first visitors to the new Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge on Friday,
May 31. The widely-anticipated expansion is the largest in the Anaheim park’s history. If you’re
one of the lucky few with advanced reservations to the Planet Batuu, Queen Bee Latina has
some helpful tips and tricks to help navigate the immersive Galaxy’s Edge.


Prior to June 24–Reservations are Required
In addition to Disneyland Park admission, all “travelers” need a reservation to enter Galaxy’s
Edge. Each reservation allows guests four hours in Galaxy’s Edge, and guests can enter at a
predetermined time when Disneyland Park is open. Reservation blocks typically start at 8am,
11am, 2pm, 5pm, and 8pm (assuming a normal 8am-12am day at Disneyland).

Online reservations are no longer available, but guests staying at one of Disneyland’s three
hotels (until June 23) are able to get one reservation slot during their time of stay. Reservations
can have a total of six people, and all legal names must be included on the reservation. Adults
18+ must provide legal identification upon reservation check-in; children under 18 do not require
ID.


All with advanced reservations will receive an email (or printout if booking through a Disney
resort) with a QR code and a list of names for all the people on the reservation. A print-out of
your reservation confirmation is not necessary to check-in at Launch Bay, but you will need to
bring it up on your mobile phone.


If you’re staying at a Disneyland Resort hotel, the hotel concierge can point you to a designated
Galaxy’s Edge booking room inside your hotel, where a Castmember can confirm your
reservation, adjust the spelling of names in your party, and can provide a print-out of your
confirmation email with QR code. This service is only available during certain business hours,
so please check that with your hotel.


Land Availability Beginning June 24

Beginning June 24, advance reservations are not needed to enter Galaxy’s Edge. Disney is
likely proceeding with a FastPass-type reservation system once guests are inside Disneyland
Park. Follow the Disney Parks Blog for details when this date approaches.


Checking In on the Day of Your Reservation

If you have advanced reservations, guests are able to check-in at Launch Bay in Tomorrowland
up to two hours prior to your reservation block. I recommend that you check-in as closely as you
can to those two prior hours because there are some reports of check-in going smooth and also
of check-in taking a lot of time.


When you arrive at Launch Bay, a Disney Castmember will check to see if you have a
reservation by asking you for your reservation confirmation letter. Again, you can either shothem a print-out or a copy of it on your mobile phone. You will then be directed to a line where a
Castmember will check that all people on the reservation are present and have the appropriate
ID. Please note that the main person on the reservation needs to be present at check-in, no
names can be changed at check-in, and all people in your party need to be present at check-in.
If some of your party is not able to enter with you, your partial party is still able to enter Galaxy’s
Edge as long as the main person on the reservation is present.


At check-in, all guests on the reservation will receive a wristband. These need to be kept on the
entire stay inside Galaxy’s Edge. Prior to leaving Launch Bay, make sure every person with the
wristband has their QR code scanned by a Castmember. According to Disney, this is needed to
“activate” the wristband. Prior to leaving Launch Bay, Castmembers will also inform you of
where you are to queue up for entering the land.


Queuing to Enter Galaxy’s Edge
As soon as you leave Launch Bay, you should know which entrance you need to queue up at.
From personal experience, the 8am reservations typically queue up at the Fantasyland entrance
(just past Casey Jr. and Red Rose Tavern), and all later reservations queue up at the Critter
Country entrance (just past Hungry Bear Restaurant). There will be a large crowd gathering in
those areas as your reservation start time nears, but don’t be discouraged.


It’s up to your party to determine when to queue up for your start time. If your party is turned off
by crowds, it’s perfectly acceptable to wait up until 30 minutes prior to get into the queue. If your
party is anxious to be first for busy experiences like Savi’s Workshop for Handbuilt Lightsabers
or Oga’s Cantina, you may want to be in the queue one to two hours prior.


Castmembers are known to let the queue partially enter Galaxy’s Edge up to 30 minutes prior,
but no one will be allowed to enter the land until the reservation start time. When proceeding
through the queue, Castmembers will continually check for wristbands, so again, ensure it’s on
your wrist for your entire stay.


Experiences with Very Limited Availability
The two most popular, but limited experiences are Savi’s Lightsabers and Oga’s Cantina. If you
are looking to do both in one day, there is a very slim probability you’ll have the opportunity
unless you split up your party. Because both experiences accept only a limited amount of
people, it’s best to focus on one and try to get in line for the experience once you enter the land.
Savi’s allows less than 20 people in one 30-minute interval to make a handbuilt lightsaber. The
cost for one of the land’s most intimate experiences is $200 plus tax per lightsaber. Queen Bee
Latina was able to experience this on Opening Day, and has a breakdown of its experience here


Oga’s Cantina is a long awaited experience for Star Wars fans. The opening marks the first
public offering of alcohol in Disneyland Park. Oga’s is a family-friendly bar atmosphere with
unique drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. Three of Galaxy’s Edge’s most coveted souvenirs can be found at Oga’s—a Porg tiki mug, an Endor tiki mug, and a Rancor Beer Flight
Board with four “teeth” beer flight cups. The souvenir mugs are only available with the purchase
of its respective drink (the Cliff Dweller, the Yub Nub, and beer flight).


Savi’s and Oga’s both have a waitlist that fills rapidly. Use a Disneyland map or the Disneyland
app to find each location and safely walk to those areas. In my last experience for Oga’s, prior
to being allowed to enter the land, Castmembers informed guests of safely following behind a
Castmember with a flag. Those who sped up in front of the Castmember, or unsafely didn’t heed
the Castmember’s direction were not allowed to put in a reservation at Oga’s. Once you provide
your cell phone number to a Castmember making reservations, they will text you with a return
time window, which allows you to explore the rest of Galaxy’s Edge without waiting in a long,
unnecessary line.


There aren’t many food options at Oga’s, but try the Oga’s Obsession treat if you want to
consume something a little “out of this world.”


Readily-Available Experiences
There are several readily-available experiences at Galaxy’s Edge, all in thanks to the
reservation window system. Shopping, eating, and riding the new Millennium Falcon Smugglers
Run ride can all be done in a four-hour window.


Smugglers Run is first of two rides to open in Galaxy’s Edge, and allows for the opportunity to
be a pilot, gunner, or engineer for the majestic Millennium Falcon ship. There is a height
restriction, so be sure to check with a Castmember to see if you “youngling” can ride. To ensure
you get the “job” you want on this ride, group your friends to either five or six people, as the ride
holds six at one time. If you have any in your party that is a video game expert, they will be the
best pilot. Every “job” is interactive, as you smuggle precious cargo for the pirate Hondo
Ohnaka.


The lines for Smugglers Run were pretty tame during opening weekend. On Day 2, I waited 40
minutes, and on Day 4, I waited five minutes and then walked on for a second ride. You can
afford to ride Smugglers Run an hour or so after you enter the land. Try to ride it within your first
2.5 hours, as another large group of “travelers” will start their reservation time at your third hour.


Extend your Adventure with the Play Disney App

My favorite feature of Galaxy’s Edge is the ability to extend your personal adventure via the Play
Disney app. This app is separate from the Disneyland app, but you can connect your profiles
and set up your Star Wars character. There are several locations with hotspots to unlock special
features and earn Galactic credits (fictional money). You can also decide to aid either the
Resistance (good guys), First Order (bad guys), or the Scoundrels (out for themselves), and
each decision you make builds your personal Star Wars adventure.

Be sure to bring backup batteries for your cell phone, or buy a FuelRod battery pack inside
Disneyland if you plan to use the Play Disney app. FuelRods are $30 and you can change them
out any time you see a kiosk. So far, no FuelRod kiosks have been reported in Galaxy’s Edge.


Shopping

There are several shopping opportunities throughout Galaxy’s Edge. Custom items like Savi’s
Lightsabers and the build-your-own-droid experience at Droid Depot are the most popular
shopping locations in the land. Be sure to check out the Marketplace for fun items including
plush, wooden, and interactive toys. The Creatures Stall in the Marketplace is where you’ll find
the cutest, yet strangest pets in the galaxy to take home.


Two other locations to shop are Resistance Supply and First Order Cargo, where you can
purchase items supporting your favorite side.


Food and Beverages
There is a limited food selection at Galaxy’s Edge, so take a look at the menus for each location
to see if you want to eat inside the land, or “off-plant” at another location in Disneyland.

Quick-service food locations include Docking Bay 7 and Ronto Roasters. Quick snacks are
available at Kat Saka’s Kettle (which I loved!) and the Milk Stand. My favorite treats in the land
were the popcorn mix at Kat Saka’s and the Blue Milk made famous by Luke Skywalker in the
movie ‘A New Hope.’


If you have picky eaters, it may be best to bring snacks or eat elsewhere.


Water fountains and water bottle fill stations are readily available throughout Galaxy’s Edge. Be
sure to check out the fountain area in the Marketplace, as you may find a creature stirring in the
water tank above.


PhotoPass
Disney didn’t miss any opportunity to provide PhotoPass options inside Galaxy’s Edge. I saw
three major areas for photos inside the land, in the Resistance area, First Order area, and in
front of the Millennium Falcon. Be sure to take advantage of the great photos Castmembers can
take, and ask if you can add a “hologram” to add an extra touch of Disney magic.

There are so many things to see, do, shop for, and eat at Galaxy’s Edge. As the land develops
ways to better enhance “travelers’” experiences in the land, things will adjust accordingly. It’s
incredible to see the hard work of Disney Imagineering and LucasFilm in person. Enjoy every bit
of it, and may the Force be with you!

Vanessa Bañuelos-Dawson is a Disney-loving, nonprofit professional based in Southern California. She contributes to lifestyle blogs when not enjoying the sights, sounds, and shopping at Disneyland. A graduate (B.A. and M.A.) of Chapman University’s Dodge College of Film, she’s an avid fan of movies. 

Enjoy Knott’s Summer Nights June 7th Through August 11th

Enjoy Knott’s Summer Nights Now Through August 11th!

Knott’s Berry Farm definitely knows how to throw a party!

Last week after sun down, my hubby and our good friends Tavo and Patty, headed to enjoy the ultimate summer party at Knott’s Berry Farm!

We shared many laughs, musica en vivo (LIVE music), delicious food, and interactive games…

Thank you Knott’s Berry Farm for inviting us to #KnottsSummer Nights. All opinions are my own.

From time to time, my hubby and I like to get a break from the kids and enjoy a date night. #sorrynotsorry kids Lol

Don’t get me wrong, Knott’s Summer Nights is great for the kids too! But no doubt, I will return with them before August 11th to celebrate as well.

More shenanigans!

These two had a blast dancing the night away! We definitely shared MANY uncontrollable belly laughs. It was crazy fun!

Hey kids! Mom and Dad can be fun and cool too…

For $35 dollars you can enjoy 8 tastings, Check out the delicious summer options above!

The Knott’s Summer Nights Tasting card provides samplings of delicious one-of-a-kind summertime items at select locations throughout the midway for only $35.  Most locations and items are available from 6:00 p.m. until park closing.

The Chili in a Corn Bread Bowl was my favorite. Just thinking about it, makes me salivate. And YES, this is on the tasting card!

These Esquites (corn cup) has mayo and a little bit of spice. It reminds me of the delicious street vendors in Mexico City. (another option on your tasting card)

Chicken Skewer shown above

It was so nice to get a break from the kids, and get some adult time. Oh! Did I mention the tasting card includes craft beer and wine? SCORE!

***Must be 21 and older for alcoholic beverages.

Knott’s LIVE entertainment features a variety of bands including Suburban Legends, Hiatus and Suffragettes among others that rotate during the event nightly. Rock out to a top 40’s band at the Calico Mine Stage and bop to beats of the Boardwalk DJ around Charleston Circle Fountain.

Oversized classic games and festoon lighting set the stage for guests to enjoy their summer nights at Knott’s, while the Knott’s Party Crew encourages good ol’ fashion fun with games and competitions that will bring out the competitor in everyone.

Don’t miss out on the fun now through August 11, 2019

LIVE music, yummy summer food, Instagram photo opps, interactive experiences, and family-friendly games, it just doesn’t get better…

Knott’s Summer Nights is a definite MUST this summer! Take your ENTIRE familia. There is a little something for everyone!

Come From Away at Segerstrom Center for the Arts Now through February 17th 2019

The September 11, 2011 attacks shook the entire world to its core. I clearly remember watching the footage on the television, and feeling devastated and confused. The entire world stood still as the the chaos and tragedy unfolded. This week, my daughter Clarissa and I attended the premiere of “Come From Away” at Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa . This show is the longest Broadway running show in Canada, and it is no surprise because this unique musical is sensational!

Disclosure: Thank you Segerstrom Center for the Arts for inviting us to see “Come From Away.” All opinions are my own.

ABOUT COME FROM AWAY

This incredible musical is based on a true story that took place Gander, a small town in Canada.  This story gives audiences a glimpse in the week following the September 11th attacks, and what transpired when 38 planes were ordered to land unexpectedly in this remote town.  The characters in the musical are based on (and in most cases share the names of) real Gander residents as well as some of the 7,000 stranded travelers they housed and fed. During “ Operation Yellow Ribbon, “cultures clashed and nerves ran high, but uneasiness turned into trust, music soared into the night, and gratitude grew into enduring friendships and surprising romances.

We laughed, we cried, and the music deeply moved us. This show was like a running carousel that had seamless song and scene transitions. There was no intermission. The story is told through storytelling catchy music.

The multitalented performers flawlessly changed voices, accents, and sang harmoniously in sync. We were blown away by their insane talent and versatility.

Don’t miss this breathtaking new musical written by Tony® nominees Irene Sankoff and David Hein, and helmed by this year’s Tony-winning Best Director, Christopher Ashley.

This astounding show is a MUST-SEE and runs through February 17th at Segerstrom Center for the Arts.

*Running time (approximate): 1 hour and 40 minutes with no intermission

COME FROM AWAY Segerstrom Center for the Arts

Address: Segerstrom Hall 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, CA

February 5 – 17, 2019

Tuesday – Friday at 7:30 p.m. Saturday at 2 and 7:30 p.m.

Sunday at 1 and 6:30 p.m.

The 2 p.m. performance on Saturday, February 16, 2019 will include audio description, open captioning and sign-language interpretation.

Tickets – Start at $29 In person

Online – SCFTA.org Phone – (714) 556-2787

American Ballet Theatre: Harlequinade at Segerstrom Center for the Arts January 17-20

Harlequinade-Segerstrom

The West Coast Premiere of Harlequinade begins Thursday, Jan 17 – 20 at Segerstrom Center for the Arts. My family cannot wait to experience the magic!

On January 17, 2019, Segerstrom will celebrate the show’s opening by featuring kid friendly activities, photo opps, craft and coloring stations. The children will also have an opportunity to meet the sensational dancers from the American Ballet Theater. The pre-show activities will begin promptly at 6pm.

When my girls were little, they attended ballet classes. ( I miss those days) My youngest son would press his face against the studio window, and gaze at the ballet dancers in awe. He would call them princesses, and tell me how much he loved watching them. I can’t wait for him to experience this lovely, kid friendly show!

Thank you Segerstrom Center for the Arts for inviting us to opening night of Harlequinade. All opinions are my own.

Harlequinade-Segerstrom

The Story
In the first act, the Harlequin and Columbine are kept apart by her father Cassandre, who would prefer that his daughter marry the wealthier (and older!) Lèandre. Not to be deterred, Harlequin tries futilely to win Cassandre over, only to be turned away again and again by Cassandre and his servant Pierrot. Finally, with the help of a Good Fairy and Pierrot’s sympathetic wife Pierrette, Harlequin’s bad fortunes are turned around, and Cassandre agrees to bless the union. Harlequin and Columbine are married in the festive second act, when love finally triumphs over all.

The Center’s International Dance Series is made possible by the Audrey Steele Burnand Endowed Fund for International Dance and The Segerstrom Foundation Endowment for Great Performances. Segerstrom Center for the Arts thanks its corporate partners including Kia Motors America, Official Automotive Partner; and United Airlines, Official Airline.

Harlequinade-Segerstrom

Use promo code KIDS when purchasing your tickets!

On opening night of Harlequinade on January 17th, families can purchase a full-price ticket and receive a second ticket free for children!

Harlequinade-Segerstrom

Don’t miss this sensational show!

AMERICAN BALLET THEATRE: HARLEQUINADE
Segerstrom Center for the Arts – Segerstrom Hall
600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, CA

January 17 – 20, 2019
Thursday – Friday at 7:30 pm
Saturday at 2:00 and 7:30 pm
Sunday at 1:00 pm
Tickets – Start at $29

Phone – (714) 556-2787
Open 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. daily
Group Sales – (714) 755-0236
Open 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday-Friday

Holiday Guide To Planning Your Visit At Knott’s Merry Farm Open Now Through January 6th

knotts-merry-farm

The holidays have arrived and my kiddos are counting down the days to winter break!

Knott’s definitely knows how to put the Merry in Christmas, and there is just so many incredible things to do during this joyous celebration. It was a magical experience to see how our beloved theme park has transformed into a winter wonderland. Merry Farm is open now through January 6th, and is a great spot to visit during the holiday season with your entire family.

Spend the most wonderful time of the year with your family at Knott’s Merry Farm enjoying thrilling attractions, live entertainment, a Christmas crafts fair, festive food, lavish holiday decorations, and nightly snow in Ghost Town.

Here’s a holiday guide to help you enjoy your visit to Knott’s Merry Farm to the fullest! 

Thank you Knott’s Berry Farm for inviting my family to Merry Farm. All Opinions are my own.

knotts-merry-farm

1. Take a stroll in the park and enjoy the holiday decorations!

As you walk into the park the streets and buildings are covered in lights. It’s remarkable!

knotts-merry-farm

2. Stop At Wilderness Dance Hall For a Treat and a Picture with Santa

Santa’s warm cookies and milk are always a special treat during the holidays… Indulge in one-of-kind seasonal treats like mouthwatering pastries, exquisite chocolate dipped cheesecake on a stick, seasonal craft beers, gourmet hot chocolate with marshmallows and hot spiced holiday wine, plus much more.

Don’t forget to visit Santa and take a pic!

One of my favorite things to do is EAT at the park. Check out the holiday treats

knotts-merry-farm

3. Enjoy A Delicious Holiday Treat

One of my favorite things to do is EAT during Merry Farm! Here is  a photo recap of some tasty treats I tried at our media preview night.

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holiday-tamales-knott's

What?! Yes… Tamales are now available at Knott’s during Merry Farm. ¡Que rico!

knotts-merry-farm

4. Watch a Holiday Show

Guests of all ages can embrace the joy of Christmas at Knott’s Merry Farm, with classic shows like the Holiday Ice Show featuring Snoopy, the Peanuts Gang and a cast of world class ice skaters, the nightly tree lighting ceremony and The Christmas Carol. Plus stroll through the merry streets of Calico for unique seasonal treats, Santa’s Christmas Cabin, traditional live Christmas Carolers, a Christmas Crafts Village, an enchanting Snow and Glow show with nightly falling snow, and so much more.

Here is the official show schedule! 

knotts-merry-farm

 

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5. Go to the Calico Tree Lighting Ceremony Located in Calico Park

The Calico Tree Lighting Ceremony is a memorable experience. Christmas carolers invited the audience to sing along to Jingle Bells and other holiday favorites…

holiday-shopping-knott's
6. Head to Ghost Town For Some Holiday Shopping

I found some unique gifts at Knott’s Christmas Crafts Village and fell in love with these adorable Christmas Tree ornaments.

Ghost Town transforms into a shopping wonderland filled with dozens of local artisans selling their unique gifts. Can’t-miss highlights of the Village include artist demonstrations of chainsaw wood carving and elegant glass blowing.

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7. Let It Snow In Ghost Town! 

Every night during Merry Farm, when the sun sets on the Farm, the buildings and paths in Ghost Town’s Main Street and School House Road are filled with glow and snow! Thousands of sparkling lights dance to the beat of Christmas music while snow gently falls in this spectacular one-of-a-kind moment.

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In between the holiday shows get on the rides, enjoy some holiday treats, and enjoy the park to the fullest!  I hope you enjoy your time at Knott’s Merry Farm as much as we do…

Happy Holidays to you and your family! XO

Queen Bee Latina

The perfect stocking stuffer is now on-sale!

The perfect stocking stuffer is now on-sale. A new 2019 Season Pass includes one free visit toenjoy Merry Farm in 2018, unlimited visits in 2019 with no blackout dates, discounts on select food and merchandise, and access to exciting year-round seasonal events. A Regular Season Pass includes unlimited admission in 2019 to Knott’s Berry Farm and a Gold Season Pass includes unlimited admission in 2019 to both Knott’s Berry Farm and Knott’s Soak City Waterpark with no blackout dates. Now at the lowest price of the year, Regular Season Passes start at just $95.00 or eight easy payments of $10.00 after initial payment and Gold Season Passes are $115.00 or eight payments of just $12.00 after initial payment. These offers endJanuary 6, 2019. Applicable taxes and fees apply online. Payment plans are only available at knotts.com.

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CHOC Walk in the Park 2018- Jerrica’s Story

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This year my family and our friends will be walking the 2018 CHOC WALK in the Park at Disneyland for my niece Jerrica!

I could hear the anxiety in my sister’s voice, when she called me in mid August 2014. “Jerrica has been running a fever for several days now, and she has strange bruising on her body. I’m taking her to the pediatrician.” After her blood results showed an extremely high white blood count of over 100,000 (normal 4,300 and 10,800 cells per cubic millimeter of blood) and she was immediately sent to CHOC Hospital in Orange for further testing.

Jerrica was immediately sent to the Oncology department CHOC for further testing. As a family, we were not prepared for the news that shook us to core. Jerrica was diagnosed with AML Leukemia (Acute Myeloid Leukemia).

 

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Jerrica endured 4 aggressive rounds of chemo, yet she still managed to smile. Jerrica’s perserverance is an inspiration to many of us!

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Jerrica spent Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Eve and her 21st birthday at CHOC Hospital. The compassionate nurses and doctors were incredible and attentive during her stay.

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“There’s not enough words to describe how thankful I am for CHOC and everything they did for me and my family. Everybody at CHOC is amazing and went above and beyond for me in every way possible. They always made me feel like I was part of their family, with the continued support they gave me. Even in my lowest days, they did everything in their power to reassure me that I had the strength and power to get through fighting Leukemia. I am thankful for them for saving my life, and I will be forever grateful.” ~Jerrica Alarcon

If you would like to show your support and or join team “JerrBear” click here  https://www.chocwalk.org/teamjerrbear

 

CHOC Walk 2018 Event Day Details

  • Sunday, August 26, 2018
  • Opening ceremony Main Street U.S.A. – 6:15 am
  • Entrance cutoff time to be announced.
  • 5K walk through Disneyland® Park, Disney California Adventure® Park and Downtown Disney® District.
  •  Registration $95 after August 13, 2018.
  •  Walkers ages 2 and under FREE
  • CHOC Walk information booth will open at 5:00 a.m. in the Disney® Esplanade

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We are so excited to be participating in the 2018 CHOC Walk in the Park at the Disneyland Resort on August 26th to raise funds for CHOC Children’s Hospital!

The fundraising efforts of the CHOC Walk make an immediate impact on families going through the most challenging time in their lives. CHOC provides the highest level of care not only to patients, but to the siblings, parents, and extended family that make up their critical support teams.

Please help us exceed our fundraising goal for the benefit of the children and families of Southern California. Donate now or join Team JerrBear at CHOC’s magical morning at the Disneyland® Resort. Every dollar counts for kids!

Many Thanks,

Team JerrBear

It’s ROASTING HOT! Cool Off This Summer At Knott’s Soak City In Buena Park

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It’s 110 degrees outside and its ROASTING hot, YIKES!  What am I going to do with the kids to keep them cool? AC is turned on, we’ve eaten way too many popsicles, and being indoors is the pits. My teen daughter is on her cell phone again, and I can’t get her off. Grrr… My son yelled, “MOM, I’m hot and I’m bored!” I thought for a few seconds and had a solution, “Let’s go to Knott’s Soak City!” Our favorite Waterpark re-opened with a BIG splash this summer, and it’s the perfect splash-tacular place to cool off in this scorchio heat.

We then headed to the park to chill out and play!  Andrew rides the water slides, even the big scary ones. He’s a daredevil and has no fear.  I sit with my big floppy hat, drink a raspberry sweet tea, and float on the Lazy River. I look at my pale legs and think, gosh I need a tan. My daughter lays next to me, a slurpee in hand, “THUS IS GREAAAT MAMA!” she says with a mouthful of ice. I laugh. This is sooo nice… I ask myself, “Why didn’t we come sooner?”

Disclosure: Thank You Knott’s Soak City for Inviting my family to cool off at your waterpark. All Opinions are my own.

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 The waterpark is bigger and better than ever before, and we love it! 

Knott’s Soak City has added a 2-acre expansion and thematic renovation, new shaded seating areas, spacious cabanas and a newly remodeled Longboard’s Grill have been added to the water park.

Knott’s Soak City Park Tips

  • Arrive early to reserve a cabana or lounge chair
  • Each cabana can accommodate up to 8 guests and includes extra amenities like a table with umbrella, free tube rental, and waiter service
  • Inner tubes are available to rent for 10 dollars a day
  • Purchase a Knott’s Berry Farm’s Souvenir reusable cup to refill throughout your visit (3 refill stations are available)
  • Purchase your tickets to Knott’s Soak City online and save off the front gate price!

If you are looking for some summer fun, Knott’s Soak City Waterpark is the place to be!

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 Experience 7 new water slides!

Shore Break towers over seven stories high and offers six different thrilling water slide experiences. Four of the slides will have guests climbing into an exhilarating Aqua Launch chamber which will send riders on a vertical free fall through a series loops and curves. 

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The newest family raft ride, The Wedge, takes up to 6 riders on a thrilling and exhilarating trip navigating twists and turns and a few surprise drops down the slide tower.

Are you brave enough to try these slides?

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What to bring to the Waterpark:

  • Sunblock
  • Sunglasses, sun hats, or visors
  • Towels
  • Sandals/Shoes to walk around the park
  • Waterproof phone case (Knott’s Soak City now offers FREE wifi for guests)
  • Water bottles

*Lockers are available to keep your valuables safe.

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Our family had a blast at Knott’s Soak City!  I’m glad there is something for little kids, as well as the big ones…

Address: 8039 Beach Blvd, Buena Park, CA 90620

Hours: 10 AM – 7 PM