CHOC Walk 2025: Walking in Honor of Elisha and Jerrica

CHOC-Walk

CHOC Walk 2025: A Walk of Love, Strength, and Gratitude

Tomorrow, I’ll be walking in the 2025 CHOC Walk in the Park, a special event that means everything to my family. This annual walk not only brings the community together but also honors the brave children who have received life-changing care at CHOC Children’s Hospital.

This year, I walk for two incredibly strong young women: my daughter Elisha and my niece Jerrica.

choc-adventure-in-the-park-2022

Why I Walk: Our CHOC Journey

CHOC has been a life-saving partner in our journey for more than two decades.

My daughter Elisha was born with a rare chromosome abnormality (Chromosome 4q Deletion). From the moment she entered this world, CHOC has been there guiding us, treating her with compassion, and helping us navigate a complex world of 24-hour care and ongoing medical needs.

My niece Jerrica battled leukemia five years ago, and CHOC stood by her every step of the way with incredible support and care.

Elisha’s Story: A Miracle in Motion

When Elisha was born, doctors told us her life expectancy was only 7 years.

Today, she is 33 years old. That’s a miracle, one made possible through love, family, and the tireless efforts of the amazing CHOC medical team.

We’ll never forget the dedication of her pediatrician, Dr. Teresa Hollander, who often called us at home after hours and remained by our side through countless challenges.

CHOC-Walk

Walking for Jerrica: Strength and Resilience

Jerrica’s fight against leukemia was incredibly tough, but she came through stronger than ever — and we are so proud of her. CHOC was a vital part of her journey, and we will always be thankful for the role they played in her recovery.

Why the CHOC Walk Matters

The CHOC Walk in the Park isn’t just a walk, it’s a powerful event that raises critical funds for CHOC’s lifesaving programs, research, and pediatric care.

Each step taken helps ensure that families like mine never walk alone.

Join Me at the 2025 CHOC Walk in the Park

💜 Event Date: Sunday, August 3, 2025
💜 Location: Disneyland® Resort – Anaheim, CA
💜 Start Time: Main Street opens at 5:30 AM | Walk begins at 6:00 AM
💜 Route: 5K walk through Disneyland® Park and Disney California Adventure® Park
💜 Parking: FREE parking available at Disneyland® Resort (structure opens at 4:00 AM)

Every dollar supports vital care and services for children at CHOC.

Donate her: https://www.chocwalk.org/

Thank You, CHOC Children’s Hospital

I’m opening my heart and sharing our story to say THANK YOU.

Thank you CHOC for saving Elisha. Thank you for giving Jerrica the care she needed. Thank you for giving families like mine hope.

We couldn’t have done this without you.

Celebrate Women’s History Month & LatinX Heritage at Segerstrom Center for the Arts

Celebrate Women’s History Month & LatinX Heritage at Segerstrom Center for the Arts

This month, Segerstrom Center for the Arts is bringing two incredible events that honor the strength, creativity, and culture of the LatinX community and women empowerment. Mark your calendars for an unforgettable weekend of music, art, and dance!

¡DAMAS! – A Girl’s Night Out You Don’t Want to Miss!

📅 Friday, March 21, 2025 | 🎟 FREE Event | 📍 Segerstrom Plaza

Celebrate Women’s History Month with ¡DAMAS!, a high-energy festival spotlighting female voices in Orange County. Enjoy live performances by Jasmine Lopez and Mariachi Las Catrinas, explore pop-ups from local women-owned businesses, snap fierce photos at Instagram-worthy spots, and take part in exciting art activities. This fully female-led event is all about community, culture, and creativity!

Ballet Folklórico de México de Amalia Hernández

📅 Saturday, March 22, 2025 | 📍 Segerstrom Center for the Arts

Experience the magic of Ballet Folklórico de México, a world-renowned dance company that has captivated audiences for over 70 years. Founded by the legendary Amalia Hernández, this breathtaking performance brings to life Mexico’s rich history through vibrant costumes, mesmerizing choreography, and powerful storytelling. From pre-Hispanic traditions to modern influences, this show is a must-see celebration of Mexican culture!

Don’t miss this weekend of music, dance, and empowerment!

For tickets and more details, visit Segerstrom Center for the Arts.

¡Celebra el Mes de la Historia de la Mujer y la Herencia LatinX en Segerstrom Center for the Arts!

Este marzo, Segerstrom Center for the Arts presenta dos eventos imperdibles que celebran la cultura LatinX y el poder de las mujeres. ¡Prepárate para un fin de semana lleno de música, arte y danza!

¡DAMAS! – ¡Una Noche de Chicas Inolvidable!

📅 Viernes, 21 de marzo de 2025 | 🎟 Evento GRATIS | 📍 Segerstrom Plaza

¡Únete a la celebración del Mes de la Historia de la Mujer con ¡DAMAS!, un festival vibrante que resalta el talento femenino en el Condado de Orange! Disfruta de presentaciones en vivo de Jasmine Lopez y Mariachi Las Catrinas, compra en pop-ups de negocios locales dirigidos por mujeres, captura momentos inolvidables en espacios perfectos para fotos, y participa en divertidas actividades artísticas. ¡Este evento liderado completamente por mujeres es una verdadera fiesta de comunidad, cultura y creatividad!

Ballet Folklórico de México de Amalia Hernández

📅 Sábado, 22 de marzo de 2025 | 📍 Segerstrom Center for the Arts

Descubre la magia del Ballet Folklórico de México, una compañía de danza reconocida mundialmente que ha cautivado al público durante más de 70 años. Fundado por la icónica Amalia Hernández, este espectáculo espectacular da vida a la historia de México con trajes deslumbrantes, coreografías impresionantes y una narración poderosa. Desde las tradiciones prehispánicas hasta la influencia moderna, esta presentación es una celebración imperdible de la cultura mexicana.

¡No te pierdas este fin de semana de música, danza y empoderamiento!

Para boletos y más información, visita Segerstrom Center for the Arts.

Step Into the Spotlight with Funny Girl at Segerstrom Center for the Arts!


Hello, fellow theater lovers!

Welcome to musical comedy heaven! Prepare to be swept off your feet by the dazzling revival of Funny Girl, gracing the stage at Segerstrom Center for the Arts. This beloved classic, featuring an iconic score by Jule Styne and Bob Merrill, has been given a fresh twist with an updated book by Harvey Fierstein. Under the masterful direction of Michael Mayer, with captivating choreography by Ayodele Casel and Ellenore Scott, this show promises an unforgettable theatrical experience. I am so excited about this show, running May 28th through June 9th!

A Story of Dreams, Determination, and Stardom

Funny Girl tells the enchanting tale of Fanny Brice, a spirited girl from the Lower East Side who defied the odds to become one of Broadway’s brightest stars. With timeless songs like “Don’t Rain On My Parade,” “I’m the Greatest Star,” and “People,” this bittersweet comedy captures the heart and resilience of a true legend. Fanny’s journey from dreamer to starlet is a love letter to the theater and a testament to the power of believing in oneself.

Exclusive Offer: Hello, Gorgeous Pride Package

Make your evening even more memorable with the Hello, Gorgeous Pride Package! For just $125, join us on Sunday, June 2nd for a spectacular pre-show reception at Outpost Kitchen at 4:30pm, followed by the 6:30pm performance of Funny Girl. This exclusive package includes orchestra tickets and fun swag, perfect for making you feel like the luckiest people in the world. Hurry, only 65 tickets are available—use promo code FUNNIEST to secure your spot!

Feel Good, Do Good: Broadway Donation Drive

Join us in making dreams come true with our Broadway Donation Drive! In partnership with the Make-A-Wish Foundation, we’re collecting beach items like flip flops, beach balls, sunglasses, towels, and disposable cameras. These donations will brighten the travel wish trips for kids, helping them create unforgettable memories. Donation bins are conveniently located on the Plaza and Orchestra lobby levels. Together, we can be the greatest stars by bringing joy to those who need it most.


Get ready for a night of laughter, inspiration, and unforgettable music at Segerstrom Center for the Arts. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to the magic of Funny Girl, this production is sure to leave you spellbound. Don’t miss your chance to be a part of this spectacular celebration of theater!

Tickets are selling fast—get yours today and let Funny Girl shine in your heart!


For more information and to purchase tickets, visit Segerstrom Center for the Arts and remember to use promo code FUNNIEST for the Pride Package. See you at the show!

American Ballet Theatre’s The Nutcracker at Segerstrom Center for the Arts

Scene from Alexei Ratmansky’s The Nutcracker. Photo: Marty Sohl.

American Ballet Theatre’s The Nutcracker at Segerstrom Center for the Arts

SoCal’s favorite holiday tradition returns with American Ballet Theatre’s critically acclaimed production of The Nutcracker. Created by celebrated choreographer Alexei Ratmansky, this dazzling holiday treat features ABT’s roster of superstar dancers alongside stunning sets and costumes by Tony winner Richard Hudson. The Pacific Symphony provides the enchanting backdrop, playing Tchaikovsky’s timeless score.

The Snow from Alexei Ratmansky’s The Nutcracker. Photo: Marty Sohl.

The Tale Unfolds:

The Nutcracker follows the journey of a young girl named Clara, who receives a nutcracker doll at her family’s Christmas party. In her dreams that night, the nutcracker doll transforms into a handsome prince, embarking on a magical journey alongside her. Together, they traverse lands filled with dancing snowflakes, waltzing flowers, a mouse army, and other exotic characters, brought vividly to life on stage by a cast of over 100 performers.

Breanne Granlund and Jonathan Klein in the Chinese Dance from Alexei Ratmansky’s The Nutcracker. Photo: Marty Sohl.

ABT’s Magnificent Rendition:

American Ballet Theatre’s The Nutcracker is a spectacle that embodies the joy of the holiday season. With its talented performers, enchanting sets, and vibrant costumes, it crafts a mesmerizing experience for audiences of all ages.

Creating Cherished Memories:

This rendition of The Nutcracker offers an opportunity to create enduring memories with loved ones. The magic woven by ABT’s performers, combined with the timeless tale and Tchaikovsky’s iconic melodies, promises to captivate and enthrall audiences throughout the performance.

Dates and Venue:

The Nutcracker by American Ballet Theatre will grace the stage of the Segerstrom Center for the Arts from December 8th to December 17th. Located at 600 Town Center Dr, Costa Mesa, CA 92626, this production invites patrons to immerse themselves in the holiday spirit and indulge in the beauty of this classic ballet.

American Ballet Theatre’s The Nutcracker at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts is a celebration of artistry, storytelling, and the magic of the holiday season. Gather your loved ones and embark on a magical journey that promises to create cherished memories for years to come.

Dance, Learn, and Play with 123 Andrés at Segerstrom Center for the Arts!

Dance, Learn, and Play with 123 Andrés at Segerstrom Center for the Arts!

Hey there, families and music lovers! Get ready to embark on a vibrant, educational, and joy-filled journey with the dynamic duo, 123 Andrés, at the Samueli Theater, Segerstrom Center for the Arts, Costa Mesa, CA. Mark your calendars for a weekend of fun and learning on December 9-10, 2023. Tickets are available now, and trust us, you don’t want to miss this!

Picture this: a lively atmosphere, infectious tunes, and an opportunity for your kids to dive headfirst into a new language and culture. That’s what awaits you at 123 Andrés, the interactive family show that’s not just a concert, but a delightful experience designed to captivate young hearts and curious minds.

Who are these magical musical wizards, you ask? Well, let us introduce you to Andrés and Christina, the husband-wife duo that has been enchanting audiences far and wide. Billboard even dubbed them “rockstars for little language learners,” and for a good reason! With their catchy songs and upbeat performances, they’ve become a household name, winning the hearts of children and families across the US and Latin America.

Their music? A fantastic blend of folk-based rhythms from Latin America and pop beats that will have your entire family grooving and singing along. But it’s not just about the music – it’s about the experience. Andrés and Christina have a knack for turning learning into a lively adventure. They’ve bagged awards like the Latin Grammy Award for Best Children’s Album and a Grammy Award nomination for Actívate. Their YouTube videos, bilingual books, and even a new PBS Kids podcast called “Jamming on the Job” are testament to their dedication to making education enjoyable for kids.

But wait, there’s more! The fun doesn’t start and end with the show. Segerstrom Center for the Arts is offering an hour of free, interactive activities for families before the performance. Imagine your little ones engaging in puppet making, drum circles, conducting lessons, and even a silent disco! It’s not just a concert; it’s a whole day of creativity, exploration, and connection.

And here’s something special: the 10 am performance on Saturday, December 9, is Sensory Friendly/Relaxed (SF/R). The Center believes in making live performances accessible to everyone in the community. These shows are designed specifically for patrons with sensory sensitivities, providing a relaxed environment where families can enjoy the magic of live entertainment together. Pre-visit guides, reduced overwhelming cues, and the freedom to move around – it’s a thoughtful approach that ensures everyone can participate and have a blast.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your tickets now! For just $20, you and your family can join 123 Andrés in this unforgettable musical adventure. Tickets are available online at scfta.org, at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts Box Office, or by phone at (714) 556-2787.

Here are the show details:

123 Andrés
Segerstrom Center for the Arts
Samueli Theater

Saturday, December 9 – 10 am (Sensory Friendly/Relaxed) & 1 pm
Sunday, December 10 – 1 pm (ASL) & 3:30 pm

In-person and Phone-
Box Office
600 Town Center Drive
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Phone: (714) 556-2787
Monday 10 am – 2 pm
Tuesday through Friday Noon- 5 pm
Closed Saturdays and Sundays

Online – SCFTA.org
Group Sales – (714) 755-0236

Get ready to dance, learn, and play – in Spanish and English – with 123 Andrés! See you there!

Lila Downs Returns for Dia De Los Muertos Concert at Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall October 11th

In the heart of October, as autumn leaves paint the town in hues of gold and red, there’s a thrilling anticipation in the air. The vibrant spirit of Dia De Los Muertos is about to come alive in a spectacular celebration, and at the center of it all is the voice of Lila Downs. On October 11, 2023, the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall will play host to a musical marvel that promises to be nothing short of magical.

As the melodies of Lila Downs fill the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, attendees will find themselves captivated by the raw emotion and sheer artistry on display. The concert promises to be a night to remember, a sensory journey that not only honors the traditions of Dia De Los Muertos but also celebrates the universal power of music to unite souls.

A Journey Into Tradition

Dia De Los Muertos, or the Day of the Dead, is a cherished Mexican tradition honoring loved ones who have passed away. It’s a time of vibrant altars, marigolds, and heartfelt remembrance. And what better way to pay homage to this rich cultural heritage than with the soul-stirring melodies of Lila Downs? With her deep-rooted connection to Mexican folk music, Lila Downs is not just a singer; she’s a storyteller, weaving tales of love, loss, and life through her songs.

The Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall

Nestled in the heart of Costa Mesa, the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall is the epitome of elegance and acoustical perfection. Its grandeur and intimate ambiance provide the ideal setting for an evening filled with music that tugs at the heartstrings. As the concert hall’s lights dim and the first notes fill the air, attendees will be transported to a world where tradition meets innovation, and where the past and present coalesce in harmony.

Lila Downs: A Voice Like No Other

Lila Downs’ voice is a force of nature, capable of evoking a myriad of emotions with every note. From haunting laments to joyful celebrations, her vocal range knows no bounds. Accompanied by a talented ensemble of musicians, she creates an atmosphere that is both electrifying and deeply moving. Prepare to be mesmerized as she effortlessly blends indigenous Mexican sounds with contemporary influences, creating a musical experience that transcends borders.

Born and raised in both Oaxaca and Minnesota, Lila Downs is the daughter of a Mixtec Indigenous woman and Anglo-American father. She has written narratives of Indigenous resistance protecting the original vision of the sacred plants and food of her Oaxacan culture while keeping the traditions of the American continent. A passionate human rights activist, Lila Downs’s lyrics often reflect stories of social injustice and the experiences within the suppressed Latin American stories of women of indigenous and working-class origins.

A Night to Remember

As the melodies of Lila Downs fill the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, attendees will find themselves captivated by the raw emotion and sheer artistry on display. The concert promises to be a night to remember, a sensory journey that not only honors the traditions of Dia De Los Muertos but also celebrates the universal power of music to unite souls.

Get Your Tickets

Don’t miss the chance to be part of this extraordinary musical celebration. Tickets for Lila Downs’ Dia De Los Muertos concert on October 11, 2023, are available NOW. Gather your friends and family, immerse yourself in the world of Mexican folk music, and let the soulful tunes of Lila Downs create memories that will last a lifetime. Join us on this magical night, where music transcends time and space, and where the spirit of Dia De Los Muertos comes alive in all its glory. ready to be enchanted, moved, and inspired by the one and only Lila Downs.

Thank you Segerstrom Center for the Arts for partnering for the Lila Downs concert. All opinions are my own.

Address:

600 Town Center Drive, 
Costa Mesa, CA 92626

 Directions 

Ticket Services
(714) 556-2787

Phone:
Monday–Friday: 10am to 5pm
(714) 556-2787 

Box Office:
Monday: 10am to 2pm
Tuesday–Friday: 12pm to 5pm
Saturday and Sunday: Closed

“Tina: The Ultimate Musical Experience” – At Segerstrom Center for the Arts July 11, 2023 – July 23, 2023


Prepare to be transported into the mesmerizing world of one of music’s most iconic figures as “Tina: The Ultimate Musical Experience” comes to the renowned Segerstrom Center for the Arts, July 11, 2023 through July 23, 2023.

This sensational production celebrates the life and extraordinary career of Tina Turner, the legendary Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll. With a combination of electrifying performances, soul-stirring music, and a powerful narrative, this upcoming show promises an unforgettable experience for audiences of all ages.

*Thank you Segerstrom Center for the Arts for partnering on this post. All opinions are my own.

About Tina Turner


Tina Turner is a true music legend whose distinctive voice, energetic stage presence, and captivating charisma have captivated audiences worldwide. Rising to fame in the 1960s as part of the Ike & Tina Turner Revue, she embarked on a successful solo career in the 1980s, earning numerous accolades and becoming one of the best-selling artists of all time. With hits like “Proud Mary,” “What’s Love Got to Do with It,” and “Simply the Best,” Tina’s music has resonated with generations and transcended genres.

The Show


“Tina: The Ultimate Musical Experience” is a riveting stage production that delves into Tina Turner’s life, from her humble beginnings in Nutbush, Tennessee, to her triumphant rise to stardom. The show explores her personal and professional journey, highlighting her resilience, strength, and unwavering spirit. Audiences will be taken on an emotional rollercoaster, experiencing the highs and lows of Tina’s life, while being treated to some of her most iconic hits performed live on stage.

The Performances:

The cast of “Tina: The Ultimate Musical Experience” features immensely talented actors, singers, and dancers who bring Tina Turner’s story to life. With their exceptional skills, they recreate Tina’s electrifying live performances, capturing her energy and captivating stage presence. Prepare to be enthralled by powerful vocals, dynamic dance routines, and a captivating atmosphere that pays homage to the essence of Tina Turner’s unforgettable concerts.

The Production:
The production values of “Tina: The Ultimate Musical Experience” are top-notch, combining cutting-edge lighting, sound design, and multimedia elements to create a visually stunning and immersive experience. Elaborate costumes, meticulously designed sets, and seamless scene transitions further enhance the authenticity of the show, transporting the audience into the world of Tina Turner.

Segerstrom Center for the Arts:
Located in Costa Mesa, California, the Segerstrom Center for the Arts is a world-class performing arts venue known for its commitment to excellence and showcasing a diverse range of artistic talents. With state-of-the-art facilities and a history of hosting prestigious productions, the center provides the perfect setting for “Tina: The Ultimate Musical Experience.”

Address

600 Town Center Drive, 
Costa Mesa, CA 92626

 Directions 

Ticket Services
(714) 556-2787

Phone:
Monday–Friday: 10am to 5pm
(714) 556-2787 

Box Office:
Monday: 10am to 2pm
Tuesday–Friday: 12pm to 5pm
Saturday and Sunday: Closed


Celebrate the Holiday Season at Citrus City Grille

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Celebrate the Holiday Season at Citrus City Grille

And just like that the holidays are here!

It’s time to enjoy the season with our loved ones. I love restaurants that are family owned and operated. Earlier this month, I dined at Citrus City Grille in Orange. Charlie Cosmas recently purchased the restaurant, and he was gracious enough to introduce himself. Cosmos is from Athens, Greece and we chatted about his bout beautiful home country, and how much we both love food and travel. I could tell he was very passionate about his dishes, and about his new restaurant.

Disclosure: Thank you Citrus City Grille for hosting us. All opinions are my own.

This eatery is located in the heart of old Orange. The colorful ambiance is warm and inviting, and it has been in operation for 27 years.

The staff is super friendly. and the menu has many traditional options with a touch of Mediterranean.

GREEK –

Romaine / Tomatoes / Onions / Kalamata Olives / Cucumbers / Bell Peppers / Feta Cheese / Oregano / EVOO-Vinaigrette 

GRILLED OCTOPUS – Extra Virgin Olive Oil / Oregano / Olives / Lemon

We truly enjoyed the high quality dishes. The ingredients are super fresh, and the food is very flavorable.

About Citrus City Grille

At Citrus City Grille, we believe dining should be an experience. Our inventive, contemporary dishes, extensive wine list and upscale atmosphere provide the ultimate in gastronomical pleasure.

At Citrus City Grille, we take family seriously. Not only is our business family owned and operated, but we consider our customers and community close as kin –  and you’ll feel that moment you walk through our doors. From our upscale-but-friendly ambiance to our hand-selected, globally curated wine selection, outrageous cocktails, and expertly prepared cuisine, stepping into Citrus City Grille is like coming home – it just tastes even better.

Happy Happy hour every day….Be sure to try any of our innovative and outrageous martinis. Join us for lunch, dinner and Live Performances Thursday – Saturday evenings.

LAND AND SEA

RIME FILET MIGNON – Roasted Potatoes / Wild Mushrooms / Wine Reduction

WILD CAUGHT CHILEAN SEABASS – Asparagus Risotto / Lemongrass Beurre Blanc Sauce

Hours

Monday – Saturday 11:30am – 10:00pm
Sunday 10:00am – 9:00

Location

122 N Glassell Street
Orange, CA 92866

(714) 639-9600

Lila Downs Returning to Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall November 8th

Lila Downs Returning to Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall November 8th

Lila Downs will be performing at the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall for one night only on November 8, 2022. You don’t want to miss this rich cultural event in Costa Mesa.

Down sings ballads about the pain of love loss, death, and she written unique compositions on social injustice. Her music is moving and extraordinary.

Known as one of Mexico’s greatest singers and cultural ambassadors, the multi-Grammy Award®- winning Mexican-American singer returns to Segerstrom Center with her new show, a celebration of music, dance and ritual.

Downs is one of the most powerful and unique voices that exist today. Downs’ music reflects the cultures of Oaxaca, Mexico, and the U.S., in which she grew up. She sings in Spanish and English, sometimes incorporating indigenous Mixtec, Zapotec and Maya. With a symbolic stage presence and emotional storytelling through song, her singing transcends all language barriers.


Disclosure: I have partnered with Segerstrom Center for this Arts for this post.

Tickets to show start at $42.00

Born and raised in both Oaxaca and Minnesota, Lila Downs is the daughter of a Mixtec Indigenous woman and Anglo-American father.

She has written narratives of Indigenous resistance protecting the original vision of the sacred plants and food of her Oaxacan culture while keeping the traditions of the American continent. A passionate human rights activist, Lila Downs’s lyrics often reflect stories of social injustice and the experiences within the suppressed Latin American stories of women of indigenous and working-class origins.

Ticket Services

Phone: Mon-Fri 10 am to 5 pm 
(714) 556-2787 

Box Office: Monday: 10am to 2pm
Tuesday–Friday: 12pm to 5pm
Saturday and Sunday: Closed

Top 10 Things To Do At Wild Rivers In Irvine

Top 10 Things To Do At Wild Rivers In Irvine

We are so fortunate to live in Southern California. The weather is like no other!

When I was a little girl, we loved to visit Wild Rivers in Irvine. My family was totally bummed when they closed on September 25, 2011. We are thrilled that they have relocated and have reopened this year. Wild Rivers is now bigger and better than ever before friends…

Here are some personal highlights of our day at Wild Rivers. The park is open seasonally, so make sure to visit before it closes!

Check out what we rated the top 10 things to do at Wild Rivers:

Thank you Wild rivers for hosting us and inviting us to play at your park. We had a blast!

There is sooo much to do and enjoy at the new Wild Rivers in Irvine.

This all-new waterpark transports you to the 1940s South Pacific and pays homage to the original MCAS El Toro. The waterpark is about adventure, discovery, and amazing fun with 20 thrilling water rides and attractions on 20-acres, nearly double the size of the original Wild Rivers.

1. For my thrill seeker friends ride, Bora Bora Boomerango!

Climb aboard a raft to begin an adventure with several other sheilas and blokes. The experience starts by navigating a winding, open-air flume. However, don’t let the tame start fool you mate, as soon you’ll be accelerating towards an abyss where you and your mates are left to plummet down a ripper drop to face a giant wall.

Are you brave enough to ride?

2. Ride Torguga!

Guests in six-person rafts take high speed twists and turns down an enclosed serpentine flume and are injected into large Aquaspheres with exciting oscillations around 90-degree corners. But that’s not all – after the Aquaspheres, guests shoot though the tight corners and high-banking turns of the Constrictor before concluding their ride by splashing into a pool.

3. Enjoy some yummy food or a treats!

Places to eat:

Pacific Grille– Lunch & Dinner, Snacks & Beverages

Island Sweets– Food, beverages, and snacks are presently sold at Pacific Grille and concession carts. Island Sweets will be opening soon.

Mustang Bar– Snacks & Beverages

Shaka Bay Grille– Lunch, Dinner, Snacks, & Beverages

4. Take your little ones to Cook’s Cove!


Central to the kid’s play area and essential in any new waterpark, this will be one of the largest rain fortresses in the world with 77 activities that are safe and fun for young children, including an 800-gallon tipping water bucket and several slides into a shallow zero entry pool. This will engage the younger kids for hours with tons of fun.

5. Race your friends at Tomcat Racers.

Your experience starts as you slide face first into one of six fully-enclosed AquaTubes that begin a 360-degree downward spiral descent. In route the excitement builds with light shining in colorful patterns through the Aqualucent tubes. With your speed increasing as you descend, each of the tubes realign (about the riders being side-by side) to begin the open air finale…a six-lane, side-by-side, steep plunge into the run out.

6. Reserve a private Cabana!

Enjoy the amazing perks of reserving a cabana.Each cabana comes with two chaise lounges, two chairs, a table, and a safe with cell phone charging to secure your personal belongings.

7. Relax and enjoy Castaway River.

When it’s time to escape the wild at Wild Rivers the gentle flowing currents of Castaway River call. Your adventure begins from either of our zero-depth beach entry points.

Grab a tube or simply take the plunge into the gentle flow and let the currents do the work.

We spent so much time here!

This 1/3-mile-long float will have you drift beneath two pedestrian bridges and past various water features, like bubbling fountains, a water wheel, and the chance to get soaked by colorful water buckets.

You can swim in the currents or relax while floating atop one of our provided tubes. Since it’s an endless river you can keep your adventure on Castaway River going for as long as you’d like.

8. Shaka Bay Wave Pool

This six-person rafting experience offers a multitude of sensations with tighter turns, higher banks and steep drops into the 20-foot diameter MEGAtube™. Riders finish by entering the eye of the storm and a zigzagging decent of fast, near vertical, oscillations before entering the splashdown pool. Typhoon will be a guest favorite.

9. Ride Typhoon!

This six-person rafting experience offers a multitude of sensations with tighter turns, higher banks and steep drops into the 20-foot diameter MEGAtube™. Riders finish by entering the eye of the storm and a zigzagging decent of fast, near vertical, oscillations before entering the splashdown pool. Typhoon will be a guest favorite.

Park Tips

Make sure to bring your:

  • Pack a water bottle to rehydrate throughout the day. (they also sell them if you don’t want to carry one)
  • Be prepared to rent a locker. You will definitely need one for your personal belongings.
  • Bring money for food, beverages, or snacks. *note no food is allowed
  • Pack your towels
  • Bring your sunblock and reapply throughout the day.

10. Last but not least… Make memories with your loved ones!

Time is so precious, and time with our family and friends is priceless!

Of course these are our personal favorite things to do. But there is sooo much to enjoy and I’m sure you will enjoy other things to. Check it out before the summer ends and it’s too late!

Happy Summer friends!~ Queen Bee Latina