A Little Rain Will Not Stop The Fall 2016 Santa Ana Patchwork Indie Arts & Crafts Festival

The Fall 2016 Santa Ana Patchwork Indie Arts & Crafts Festival returned to Downtown Santa Ana this past Sunday afternoon. This semi-annual arts & crafts fair consists of a series of Sunday fairs in Long Beach, Oakland, and Santa Ana. To envision Patchwork Fest, imagine an arts & crafts fair, but catered to a modern trendy crowd. The many local vendors set up their booths here, selling their wares, merchandise, apparel, accessories, foods, desserts, music, and so on. Patchwork Fest emphasizes supporting the local community, a perfect follow-up to Small Business Saturday that took place the Saturday prior, a day prior to Patchwork Fest.

Completely free to attend to the public, Patchwork Fest openly welcomes pets, and boasts a free bike valet for visitors. Each branch of the streets featured over a hundred different local vendors all selling their various goods and/or services. Visitors who get hungry could enjoy fresh hot eats from the various food vendors throughout the event area, or can browse through the various food booths in the fest for portable eats. Although the rain arrived in waves throughout the day, a little wetness did not stop the vendors from going strong, nor did the rain stop the thousands of visitors from seeking out great gifts. As the day progressed, the rain started to thin out, and the day ended with the visible sun setting over the horizon.

As a FREE event open to all ages and all pets, Patchwork Fest presents a welcome opportunity to support the local community. If you did not make it to Patchwork Fest, fret not – Patchwork Fest will return to its full glory around May to June next year. Come experience what makes Patchwork Fest a repeat success, and support local businesses while having fun. For more information about this Sunday’s event and future events, make sure you keep up with Patchwork Fest by liking them on Facebook and following them on Twitter.

Upcoming Events: November 28 – December 4, 2016

The Public House by Evans Brewing Co. – Grand Opening
5:00 pm – 7:00 pm, November 30
The Public House by Evans Brewing Co., Fullerton
http://www.evansbrewco.com/pub
http://www.facebook.com/events/322004384852317/

Although they have already opened under a soft opening, Evans Brewing will officially open their doors to the public starting this Wednesday in Downtown Fullerton. They will have complimentary appetizers, beers, and wines for the first two hours.

The Inspired Market – Rancho Cucamonga
4:00 pm – 9:00 pm, December 1
Thomas Winery Plaza, Rancho Cucamonga
http://theinspiredmarket.com/

This free and all-ages arts & crafts fair takes place on the first and third Thursdays of each month in Rancho Cucamonga. Swing on by and check out the various vendors here selling accessories, apparel, and more.

Riviera Village Holiday Stroll
5:00 pm – 9:00 pm, December 1
Riviera Village, Redondo Beach
http://www.rivieravillageredondo.org/events/

Explore Riviera Village in Redondo Beach this Thursday evening and enjoy holiday-themed festivities such as horse-drawn carriage rides, holiday music, a parade at 6pm, local shopping sales, food & drink specials, and more.

32nd Annual Pomona Harvest Festival
10:00 am – 6:00 pm, December 2-4
Fairplex, Pomona
http://harvestfestival.com/

Shop thousands of handmade American arts & crafts in hundreds of booths over the weekend. Find beautiful jewelry, clothing, specialty foods, photography, hand-turned wood, ceramics, and more. Admission costs $9 for Adults, $7 for Seniors, $4 for Youth, and 12 & under get in free.

Bibigo Torrance Grand Opening
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm, December 2
Bibigo, Del Amo Fashion Center, Torrance
http://www.bibigousa.com/
http://www.facebook.com/BibigoUSA/photos/a.114259088633083.17412.105791026146556/1371132796279033/

A new Bibigo opens their doors to the public this Friday afternoon in Torrance. Visit from noon to 3pm to receive a FREE bowl while supplies last.

4th Annual Good Food Showcase
1:00 pm – 4:00 pm, December 2
Coastal Roots Farm, Encinitas
http://www.sdchip.org/

Check out local farms, chefs, and products this Friday afternoon in Encinitas. Admission costs $10 and gets you access to all the exhibitors on site.

20th Annual Pizza Port Carlsbad Strong Ale Festival
2:00 pm – 10:00 pm, December 2-3
Pizza Port Bottle Shop, Carlsbad
http://www.pizzaport.com/locations/pizza-port-carlsbad/
http://www.eventbrite.com/e/pizza-ports-20th-annual-strong-ale-fest-tickets-28933299277

Submerge yourself in strong beers this weekend at Pizza Port in Carlsbad. General admission costs $45, starts at 5pm, and includes a souvenir glass and eight beer tasters. VIP sessions cost $70, start at 2pm, and also include complimentary food and access to purchase rare bottles.

38th Annual Balboa Park December Nights
3:00 pm – 11:00 pm, December 2
12:00 pm – 11:00 pm, December 3
Balboa Park, San Diego
http://www.balboapark.org/decembernights

This free and all-ages event allows visitors to check out the museums of Balboa Park free of charge, and enjoy the live holiday-themed entertainment.

53rd Annual Ski Dazzle Ski Show & Snowboard Expo
3:00 pm – 11:00 pm, December 2
11:00 am – 10:00 pm, December 3
12:00 pm – 6:00 pm, December 4
Los Angeles Convention Center, Downtown Los Angeles
http://www.skidazzle.com/

Check out all things ski, snowboard, and other winter/snow sports this weekend in Downtown LA. Daily admission costs $20 for adults or $5 for children, and grants access to the full show floor filled with over a hundred different vendors. Bring cash for parking as well.

First Fridays
5:00 pm – 10:00 pm, December 2
Various locations
Long Beach: http://firstfridayslongbeach.com/
Venice: http://www.abbotkinney1stfridays.com/

This monthly artwalk occurs on the first Friday of every month. Each location offers different activities, but most will contain food & drink specials, art exhibits & displays, street performers, and more. Venice and Long Beach have the two largest gatherings of all First Fridays. Other locations include Westchester, Fullerton, and City of Industry. Most First Fridays locations cost nothing to attend, while the local businesses uphold their standard rules (e.g. bars 21+ only).

Uptown Village Market
5:00 pm – 10:00 pm, December 2
11:00 am – 5:00 pm, December 3
Expo Arts Center, Bixby Knolls, Long Beach
http://uptownvillagemarket.com/

Local artists and vendors will display and sell their wares at this FREE art fest. Guests can look at some interesting works of art, while browsing through all the merchandise available to purchase. The organizers will provide free refreshments, while live bands and singers will keep guests entertained.

Seal Beach Christmas Parade 2016
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm, December 2
Main Street, Seal Beach
http://www.sealbeachlions.org/christmas-parade.html

Enjoy a free and all-ages holidays parade this Friday night in Old Town Seal Beach. Make sure you arrive early to secure parking and a good spot along the parade route.

LA Weekly Sips & Sweets 2016
7:00 pm – 11:00 pm, December 2
Petersen Automotive Museum, Mid-Wilshire
http://microapp.laweekly.com/sips-and-sweets/

Indulge on desserts and alcohol this Friday night in Los Angeles. General admission costs $45 and starts at 8pm, while VIP admission costs $65 and starts at 7pm. All attendees receive unlimited food and drinks while supplies last. No one under 21 may attend.

Skacore Night in Corona
7:00 pm – 1:00 am, December 2
M15 Concert Bar & Grill, Corona
http://www.facebook.com/events/1612566002381050/

Get your skanking on at this skacore show in Corona this Friday night. The cover for this all-ages show costs $6.

Kat’s Birthday Bash!
8:00 pm – 2:00 am, December 2
Blacklight District Lounge, Long Beach
http://www.facebook.com/events/1080466678718433/

Get your weekly dose of local punk rock this Friday night in Long Beach. They have not specified a cover charge, so have cash available on hand for that. No one under 21 may enter.

Agent Orange: Live in Southern California
8:00 pm – 12:00 am, December 2, The Karman Bar, Laguna Niguel http://www.facebook.com/events/1809772199294487/
8:30 pm – 12:30 am, December 3, The Casbah, Middletown, San Diego http://www.casbahmusic.com/event/1321759-agent-orange-san-diego/
http://www.agentorange.net/

Legendary surf punk band Agent Orange will headline shows in Southern California this weekend. The ticket price varies with each show, so click on a show’s link for details. No one under 21 may enter these shows.

Guttermouth: Live in San Diego
8:30 pm – 12:30 am, December 2
Soda Bar, Normal Heights, San Diego
http://xxx-guttermouth-xxx.com/

Legendary punk rock band Guttermouth will headline a show in San Diego this Friday night. Tickets to this show cost $15 presale or $17 at the door. No one under 21 may enter.

Pulley: Live in Long Beach
9:00 pm – 2:00 am, December 2
Alex’s Bar, Long Beach
http://www.x-members.com/
http://www.alexsbar.com/event/1321037-pulley-long-beach/

Punk rock band Pulley will headline a show in Long Beach this Friday night. Tickets to this show cost $10 presale or $12 at the door. No one under 21 may enter.

3rd Annual Run For A Claus
6:30 am – 11:00 am, December 3
University of California Irvine (turnaround at center of campus), Irvine
http://www.runforaclaus.com/

Participate in a 5K run this Saturday morning in Irvine. Kids may opt to participate in a 1-mile fun run instead. Registration for either run costs $40 for adults, with the price going down for younger participants.

3rd Annual Grand Central Market Holiday Marketplace
9:00 am – 6:00 pm, December 3-4
Grand Central Market, Downtown Los Angeles
http://www.grandcentralmarket.com/events/817/third-annual-holiday-marketplace

This weekend at Grand Central Market in Downtown LA, retail popups will offer special holiday products, while market vendors will have holiday deals on their goods. Visitors will also find cookbook signings, live music, and arts & crafts for the little ones.

Foodie Con 2016
9:00 am – 6:00 pm, December 3
10:00 am – 5:00 pm, December 4
The Reef, South Central, Los Angeles
http://www.foodiecon.org/

If you have gone to Artisanal LA, this will feel very familiar. Check out this event in Los Angeles this weekend filled with dozens of vendors selling and/or sampling various food & beverage products. The event will also have speakers, demos, activities, and miscellaneous vendors. Admission costs $30 for one day, $45 for both days, $55 for VIP admission (early entry plus other goodies), or $7 for children. Attendees can find free street parking in the nearby neighborhoods.

Holiday Vintage Pop Up at Ms. Vintage
10:00 am – 2:00 pm, December 3
Ms. Vintage Clothing, Grant Hill, San Diego
http://www.facebook.com/events/1187235731369529/

A special vintage pop-up will take place in San Diego this Saturday morning. Free to attend for all ages, check out dozens of vendors selling vintage apparel, accessories, and more.

The Original International Tiki Market Place
10:00 am – 3:00 pm, December 3
Elks Lodge 1952, Garden Grove
http://www.facebook.com/events/1624508447842415/

For $10 admission gain access to a plethora of tiki-themed vendors in Garden Grove this Saturday afternoon. Admission comes with a $10 voucher for a drink.

46th Annual Candy Caneland & Craft Faire
10:00 am – 4:00 pm, December 3
Ehlers Event Center, Buena Park
http://www.buenapark.com/city-departments/community-services/special-events/candy-caneland-craft-faire

Enjoy a free and all-ages holidays event this Saturday in Buena Park. Attendees can expect plenty of fun activities for the entire family. Bring cash for food and vendors.

San Diego STEAM Maker Festival
10:00 am – 4:00 pm, December 3
Del Mar Fairgrounds, Del Mar
http://www.sansmf.org/

An interactive educational event for all ages comes to Del Mar this Saturday. Admission costs $8 for adults or $6 for children, and provides access to all the vendors, exhibitors, demos, games, activities, and more.

2016 Holiday Craft Faire
10:00 am – 6:00 pm, December 3-4
Whimsic Alley, Los Angeles
http://www.whimsicalleyla.com/

Check out this FREE and all-ages event going on this weekend in Los Angeles. Visitors will find plenty of arts & crafts from local designers with a passion for pop culture and the holidays.

22nd Annual Nutcracker Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Village
10:00 am – 7:00 pm, December 3
Center Street Promenade, Downtown Anaheim
http://www.downtownanaheim.com/tree-lighting

Completely FREE to attend for all ages, this Christmas tree-lighting celebration lasts all day. During the day, guests can partake in breakfast with Santa, kids’ crafts & activities, a food fair, live entertainment, train rides, snow play, and more. The actual tree lighting begins at 6pm. If you need something to do with family, bring them to Downtown Anaheim this Saturday night.

PlayStation Experience 2016
10:00 am – 10:00 pm, December 3
10:00 am – 6:00 pm, December 4
Anaheim Convention Center, Anaheim
http://www.playstation.com/en-us/campaigns/2016/playstation-experience/

Check out all things Sony and PlayStation, including the new PS VR and PS4 Pro, this weekend at the Anaheim Convention Center. Admission to this all-ages expo costs $45 for Saturday, $40 for Sunday, or $75 for both days.

2nd Annual Go Little Tokyo Holiday Marketplace
10:00 am – 10:00 pm, December 3-4
Little Tokyo, Downtown Los Angeles
http://www.golittletokyo.com/holidays/

Free to attend for all ages, visitors to Little Tokyo in Downtown LA this weekend will find lots of holiday festivities, activities, sales, specials, and more.

53rd Annual North Park Toyland Parade & Festival
11:00 am – 3:00 pm, December 3
North Park, San Diego
http://www.toylandparade.com/

A free and all-ages festive parade takes place in North Park this Saturday morning. Following the parade, lots of holiday activities will take place in North Park on both 30th Street and University Avenue.

6th Annual Los Angeles International Tea Festival
11:00 am – 5:00 pm, December 3-4
Japanese American National Museum, Downtown Los Angeles
http://teafestivalla.com/

Sample teas from around the world, and sample Japanese cuisine at this tea festival. General admission to this all-ages festival costs $20. Guests can park for free on the street on Sunday. On Saturday, all lots and meters will operate normally.

9th Annual Unique LA Holiday Show
11:00 am – 6:00 pm, December 3-4
The California Market Center, Downtown Los Angeles
http://www.uniquemarkets.com/markets-la/

Their website describes this event best: “The largest independent design show in the country, attendees get the rare chance to meet and shop directly from over 350 hand-selected designers and artists. The exciting two-day shopping event makes it easy for you to buy local and support LA’s economy, discover great design and deals, join in community, and have a blast.” The $15 admission allows for unlimited reentry for both days, and anyone buying presale online will receive a free tote bag. Guests over 21 can receive free cocktails, while all guests may receive other free drinks, like teas and waters. The show will also feature some of LA’s most popular restaurants and food trucks serving their delicious food. Parking directly at the venue costs $6, while nearby parking lots will range from $3-5.

Artisanal LA Holiday City Market
11:00 am – 7:00 pm, December 3
1st & Huntington, Arcadia
http://artisanalla.com/

Artisanal LA brings you this one-of-a-kind street fair this Saturday. At this free and all-ages event, visitors to this European market inspired local shopping experience will find food, drinks, treats, art, apparel, accessories, live entertainment, arts & crafts, and more. Have some cash available for parking, as free parking does not exist anywhere near this area.

Holidayfest on South Lake Avenue
12:00 pm – 5:00 pm, December 3
Corporate Center Pasadena, Pasadena
http://www.southlakeavenue.org/events/calendar/south-lakes-2016-holiday-celebration-12-5pm/

Free to attend for all ages, this holiday festival will surely keep you and your family entertained. Visitors will find holiday activities, in-store specials & deals, Santa Claus, horse-carriage rides, live music, arts & crafts, games, food, drinks, and more.

2016 Chula Vista Starlight Parade & Frosty’s Snow Hill
12:00 pm – 8:00 pm, December 3
Memorial Park, Chula Vista
http://www.starlightparade.com/

Family-friendly festivities will take place in Chula Vista this Saturday. Starting at noon, visitors will find snow at Memorial Park, plus other activities. A Christmas parade will start at 6pm on 3rd Avenue.

Carols & Barrels – A Holiday Beer & Wine Festival
1:00 pm – 5:30 pm, December 3
Port Pavilion on Broadway Pier, San Diego
http://carolsandbarrels.com/

This looks like another big corporate beer festival, so stay wary. This one takes place in Downtown San Diego at the same place that the popular San Diego Brewers’ Guild Festival takes place. General admission costs $55 and starts at 2pm, while VIP admission costs $85 and starts at 1pm. All attendees receive a souvenir cup and unlimited drinks while supplies last. Bring extra cash for parking and food. No one under 21 may attend.

24th Annual Holiday Sonata in Uptown Whittier
4:00 pm – 9:00 pm, December 3
Streets of Uptown Whittier
http://whittieruptown.org/event/24th-annual-holiday-sonata/

Bring out the family to this free and all-ages event on the streets of Uptown Whittier. Visitors will experience Christmas Village, Santa Claus, horse-drawn carriage rides, live music, carolers, live entertainment, local shopping sales, food & drink specials, and lots more.

2017 Miss California USA Pageant
4:00 pm – 9:00 pm, December 3-4
Terrace Theater, Long Beach Convention Center, Downtown Long Beach
http://www.misscausapageant.com/

On Saturday, catch the Miss California USA & Miss California Teen USA Preliminary Competition. On Sunday, see the Final Show Dress Rehearsal and the Final Coronation Show. Ticket prices range from $60 to $80 for the competitions, while tickets to the dress rehearsal cost about $30.

2016 Encinitas Holiday Parade
5:00 pm – 7:30 pm, December 3
Coast Highway 101, Encinitas
http://cityofencinitas.org/index.aspx?recordid=16661&page=21

Enjoy a free and all-ages Christmas tree lighting ceremony followed by a holiday parade this Saturday evening in Encinitas.

37th Annual Ocean Beach Holiday Parade
5:00 pm – 8:00 pm, December 3
Newport Avenue, Ocean Beach, San Diego
http://obtowncouncil.org/ob-for-the-holidays/

Bring the family out to this local holiday parade this Saturday evening in Ocean Beach. Arrive early to find parking and secure a spot to watch along the parade route.

1st Annual Riverside Wine & Beer Festival
5:00 pm – 9:00 pm, December 3
Riverside Municipal Auditorium, Riverside
http://www.riversidelive.com/EventDetail?tmeventid=0B00514F0CC45E94&offerid=38236

A wine and beer festival will take place in Downtown Riverside this Saturday night. The website does not show ticket prices currently, but they will have general admission that starts at 6pm and VIP admission that starts at 5pm. No one under 21 may attend.

34th Annual Belmont Shore Christmas Parade
6:00 pm – 9:00 pm, December 3
2nd Street, Belmont Shore, Long Beach
http://www.belmontshore.org/christmas-parade/

Police will close 2nd Street beginning at 5pm from Livingston through Bay Shore. As one of Belmont Shore’s most popular annual events, parking fills up intensely within a mile radius. I recommend parking way away and either bike or walk to Belmont Shore.

54th Annual LA Harbor Holiday Afloat Boat Parade
6:00 pm – 9:00 pm, December 3
Ports O’ Call, San Pedro
http://laharborholidayafloat.org/

Enjoy a free and all-ages holiday boat parade with thousands of sparkling lights this Saturday night in San Pedro. Visitors have plenty of spots along the river to view the parade from – check the website for the parade route and viewing spots.

OC Roller Derby – Winter Wonderslam
6:00 pm – 9:00 pm, December 3
The Rinks, Huntington Beach
http://www.ocderby.com/

Watch intense & brutal girl-on-girl action at this roller derby bout this Saturday night in Huntington Beach. Tickets to this roller derby bout cost $15.

South Park Winter Walkabout
6:00 pm – 10:00 pm, December 3
30th Street, South Park, San Diego
http://www.southparksd.com/walkabout.html

During this free and all-ages quarterly stroll through South Park, visitors can check out all the of the local businesses as they have specials and activities available.

Iron Triangle Brewing’s One-Year Anniversary
7:00 pm – 12:00 am, December 3
6:00 pm – 9:30 pm, December 4
Iron Triangle Brewing, Downtown Los Angeles
http://www.irontrianglebrewing.com/
http://bit.ly/ITBoneyear

Downtown LA’s Iron Triangle Brewing celebrates a year in the SoCal craft beer industry this weekend with beer and live music. Tickets cost $20 presale or $25 at the door, and gets you in to Sunday night at the tasting room. No one under 21 may attend.

Pomona Swap Meet & Classic Car Show
5:00 am – 2:00 pm, December 4
Fairplex, Pomona
http://www.pomonaswapmeet.com/

See thousands of original and restored classic cars at the Fairplex this Sunday morning. Many of the vendors will also sell automotive accessories, parts, and more as well. This all-ages show cost $10 to enter, while children 10 and under get in free with a paid adult admission. Parking costs $10 per vehicle – guests must enter via gate 17 on Fairplex Drive, directly off the 10 freeway.

Autism Speaks Walk – Orange County
9:00 am – 1:00 pm, December 4
Angel Stadium, Anaheim
http://www.autismspeakswalk.org/faf/home/default.asp?ievent=1156297

Walk for charity this Sunday morning in Anaheim. Raise certain amounts of money to qualify for rewards, which you can find out about on their website.

10th Annual Home for the Holidays Pet Adoption Fair
10:00 am – 3:00 pm, December 4
Irvine Animal Care Center, Irvine
http://www.cityofirvine.org/animal-care-center/home-holidays

A pet adoption fair will take place in Irvine this Sunday, which will have hundreds of pets available for adoption, plus mobile food vendors, other pet accessory vendors, demos, a silent auction, and more. Although free to attend for all ages, they suggest a $2 donation per person to attend.

3rd Annual Mosaic Craft Fair
10:00 am – 4:00 pm, December 4
The Alhambra at Urban Community, Alhambra
http://www.mosaiccraftfair.org/

Get crafty at this arts & crafts fair this Sunday afternoon in Alhambra. Free to attend for all ages, visitors will find dozens of independent designers selling their goods, a handful of mobile food vendors, a beer garden, live music, entertainment, and more.

4th Annual Winter Drive
10:00 am – 4:00 pm, December 4
Industry Hills Expo Center, City of Industry
http://www.autoconevents.com/winter-drive-2016/

See all things cars at this car show presented by AutoCon this Sunday in the City of Industry. Attendees will find hundreds of classic & customs cars, a huge vendor village, demos, food trucks, import models, and more. Although free to attend for all ages, they suggest donating an unwrapped toy worth $10 or more upon entering.

38th Annual Corona Del Mar Christmas Walk
11:00 am – 4:00 pm, December 4
Corona Del Mar’s Business District, Corona Del Mar
http://www.cdmchamber.com/events/christmas_walk.asp

Free to attend for all ages, many businesses in Corona Del Mar will have specials and activities this Sunday afternoon.

7th Annual SoNo Fest & Chili Cookoff
11:00 am – 5:00 pm, December 4
32nd & Thorn, North Park, San Diego
http://sonofestchilicookoff.com/

Check out this free and all-ages event this Sunday afternoon in North Park that will have chili, a beer garden, a kids’ zone, vendors, live music, and more. Although free to attend, visitors can pay $20 to receive a handcrafted ceramic bowl and five restaurant chili tastings.

2nd Annual Mac & Cheese Smackdown
12:00 pm – 7:00 pm, December 4
Bank of America Center, Downtown Los Angeles
https://www.timeout.com/los-angeles/things-to-do/mac-and-cheese-smackdown-2016

Gorge yourself out on mac & cheese from seven of Los Angeles’ top chefs this Sunday afternoon in Glassell Park. $30 admission gets you two hours of all-you-can-eat mac & cheese while supplies last. Three two-hour sessions will take place: 12pm-2pm, 2:30-4:30, and 5pm-7pm.

65th Annual Downey Christmas Parade
1:00 pm – 4:00 pm, December 4
Downey & Florence, Downey
http://www.downeychamber.com/event/christmas-parade/

Enjoy a free all-ages holiday parade in Downey this Sunday afternoon.

City of Irvine’s Winter Wonderland
3:00 pm – 8:00 pm, December 4
Irvine Civic Center, Irvine
http://www.cityofirvine.org/news-media/calendar-of-events/event/winter-wonderland-0

Irvine will have a free and all-ages holiday-themed event this Sunday evening. Visitors will find Christmas lights, a Christmas tree, arts & crafts, games, train rides, food & drinks, Santa Claus, and more.

22nd Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony & Candlelight Choir Procession
3:30 pm – 7:30 pm, December 4
Old Towne Plaza Area, Orange
http://www.cityoforange.org/depts/commserv/special_events/tree_lighting_ceremony_n_candlelight_choir_procession.asp

Come to Orange this Sunday evening for holiday cheer and family fun with traditional carols and a tree lighting ceremony at 5:15pm.

Preview: The Fall 2016 Santa Ana Patchwork Indie Arts & Crafts Festival

The Fall 2016 Santa Ana Patchwork Indie Arts & Crafts Festival returns to W 2nd St & N Sycamore St in Downtown Santa Ana this coming Sunday. This semi-annual arts & crafts fair consists of a series of Sunday fairs in Long Beach, Oakland, and Santa Ana. To envision Patchwork Fest, imagine an arts & crafts fair, but catered to a modern trendy crowd. As I describe it to others, imagine an art fair full of hipsters, but in a non-offensive way. The many local vendors set up their booths here, selling their wares, merchandise, apparel, accessories, foods, desserts, music, and so on. Patchwork Fest emphasizes supporting the local community, a perfect follow-up to Small Business Saturday that takes place this Saturday, a day prior to Patchwork Fest.

Completely free to attend to the public, Patchwork Fest openly welcomes pets, and boasts a free bike valet for visitors. Each branch of the streets will feature dozens of different local vendors all selling their various goods and/or services. Check out the few music booths around the area, which will host local musicians. Visitors who get hungry can enjoy fresh hot eats from the various food vendors throughout the event area, or can browse through the various food booths in the fest for portable eats. As this event takes place in Downtown Santa Ana, visitors will walk by a handful of great local restaurants as well.

As a FREE event open to all ages and all pets, Patchwork Fest presents a welcome opportunity to support the local community. Commuting visitors should look for parking in the neighborhood to the south. Come experience what makes Patchwork Fest a repeat success, and support local businesses while having fun this Sunday. For more information about this Sunday’s event and future events, make sure you keep up with Patchwork Fest by liking them on Facebook and following them on Twitter.

Beer Up – Orange County Welcomes Another Microbrewery Called Gunwhale Ales

Nothing can stop the big boom of craft beer in the country. Times have changed, and the people want quality over quantity. During the 20th century, mass production and the advent of media and advertising meant that the big corporations got word of their mass-produced products out to the public, overshadowing the local mom & pop shops. As time passed, preferences changed to the local goods, and the big corporations started to buy out the little guys. We now enter the 21st century, where the internet reigns supreme as far as advertising and information trading goes. As such, people want something different and unique, not the same things seen everywhere. So when a new local establishment pops up, people will surely flock to it, such as with Gunwhale Ales in Costa Mesa.

Saying hello to another microbrewery in Orange County, we arrive at Gunwhale Ales. Located in Costa Mesa just across the street from Barley Forge (another microbrewery), Gunwhale Ales has arrived to dish out their take on craft beers. They already have an expansive facility with a spacious brewing area and plenty of seating, including an enclosed patio. Upon taking a step into the building, we discover an entirely different world than the urban sprawl on the outside. Gunwhale Ales follows a hunting theme, complete with decorations that would remind one of the outdoors, woods, and woodsmen. Similarly, the brews follow a sort of trend with the saisons and farmhouse ales offered. To add on to the outdoors theme, instead of the typical brown glass growlers that most other breweries offer, Gunwhale Ales carries crowlers instead. They function just as well as traditional brown glass growlers, but will not break due to its aluminum build.

Check out Gunwhale Ales in Costa Mesa open Tuesdays through Sundays starting at 11am. In the meantime, check out Gunwhale Ales on Facebook and Twitter to see what else they have in store.

Upcoming Events: November 21-27, 2016

2016 Los Angeles Auto Show
9:00 am – 9:00 pm, November 18-27
Los Angeles Convention Center, Los Angeles
http://laautoshow.com/

Check out the newest and latest cars, trucks, exotics, and more. General admission costs $12 on weekdays or $15 on weekends.

37th Annual San Diego Jazz Festival
7:00 pm – 11:00 pm, November 23
6:00 pm – 11:00 pm, November 24
10:30 am – 12:00 am, November 25
9:30 am – 12:00 am, November 26
8:00 am – 6:00 pm, November 27
Town & Country Resort Hotel, Mission Valley, San Diego
http://www.sdjazzfest.org/

Enjoy a weekend filled with jazz this week in San Diego. Admission varies depending on when you want to attend, which you can buy at the gate.

4th Annual Turkey Bowl
9:00 pm – 2:00 am, November 23
Character’s Sports Bar, Pomona
http://gonzopresents.com/event/257519

As they do every year, Characters Sports Bar will host a pre-Thanksgiving show in Pomona this Wednesday. The cover charge for this show costs $15. No one under 21 may enter. Guests can find plenty of free street parking nearby.

Thanksgiving
November 24
United States

Happy Turkey Day! Take a breather and relax on this national holiday.

Long Beach Turkey Trot 5k/10k Run/Walk
6:00 am – 11:00 am, November 24
Belmont Olympic Pool, Long Beach
http://justinrudd.com/trot.html

This fun run takes place on Thanksgiving morning. Four different runs start at 7am, 8am, 9am, and 10am. The registration fee now costs $40 per person for any run. Participants may park in nearby beach parking lots for free until the end of the event, upon which officials will enforce the parking meters.

39th Annual Dana Point Turkey Trot
6:00 am – 11:00 am, November 24
Dana Point Harbor, Dana Point
http://www.turkeytrot.com/

Another Thanksgiving fun run takes place in Dana Point. Registration costs $40 per person. As with any fun run, participants do not receive prizes for winning.

Turkey Trot Los Angeles
6:30 am – 11:00 am, November 24
Grand Park, Downtown Los Angeles
http://turkeytrot.la/

Moving from Santa Monica to Los Angeles, the Turkey Trot will combine a fair with a race, with a costume contest, turkey calling contest, potato sack races, and other fair-themed activities. Registration currently costs $35, but will increase to $40 starting Thursday.

Thanksgiving Extra-Noodle Challenge 2016
11:00 am – 10:00 pm, November 24
Shin-Sen-Gumi Hakata Ramen, all five locations
http://www.shinsengumigroup.com/

Looking for a feast this Thanksgiving without doing the cooking? Head to any of Shin Sen Gumi’s five ramen locations throughout Southern California this Thursday for their noodle challenge. For $10, get all-you-can-eat ramen for 30 minutes. This fee includes one bowl of ramen, one bowl of soup, then unlimited “EXTRA” noodles until time runs out. A free t-shirt goes to men who eat six EXTRA noodles or women who eat four EXTRA noodles. The men’s and women’s champion of each store will receive a $50 gift certificate after the day’s end.

LosCon 43
9:00 am – 8:00 pm, November 25-26
9:00 am – 2:00 pm, November 27
LAX Mariott Hotel, Los Angeles
http://loscon.org/

This annual convention has something to do with science fiction/fantasy. Registration for this weekend-long fandom event costs $60.

The Interrupters: Live in Southern California
7:00 pm – 11:00 pm, November 25, Glass House, Pomona
7:00 pm – 11:00 pm, November 26, The Irenic, North Park, San Diego
http://www.wearetheinterrupters.com/

Ska band The Interrupters currently tour across the continent, and that tour will conclude in Southern California this weekend.Each show has a different ticket price and age limit, so check on their website for full details for each show.

D.I. @ The World Famous Doll Hut
8:00 pm – 1:00 am, November 25
The World Famous Doll Hut, Anaheim
http://www.facebook.com/events/176276032779912/

Get your weekly dose of punk rock this Friday night at the Doll Hut in Anaheim. Tickets to this local punk rock show cost $10 presale or $12 at the door. No one under 21 may enter.

Matamoska’s 15th Anniversary Show
8:00 pm – 1:00 am, November 25
The Observatory’s Constellation Room, Santa Ana
http://www.observatoryoc.com/node/2834

Get your skanking on this Friday night at this skacore show in Santa Ana. Tickets to this all-ages show cost $8. Arrive early to park at the venue’s parking lot for free. Arrive too late, and end up parking in a parking lot down the street for $10 per vehicle.

10th Annual Rockabilly Extravaganza & Cavalcade of Beauty Pin Up Contest
9:00 am – 6:00 pm, November 26
Riverside Municipal Airport, Riverside
http://rockabilly66.com/

An all-ages rockabilly show takes over the Riverside Airport this Saturday. For $10 admission, visitors will find live music, classic cars, live entertainment, a pin up contest, arts & crafts, food, drinks, and more.

Zine Queens Vol. 2: The Library Is Open
11:00 am – 5:00 pm, November 26
Long Beach Main Library, Downtown Long Beach
http://darcycrashdistro.tumblr.com/post/150638740650/zine-queens-vol-2

Art lovers rejoice – Long Beach gets their own Zine Fest this Saturday afternoon. This free and all-ages event will feature dozens of local and/or independent authors and publishers sharing their magazines, comics, and other DIY material. Workshops and speakers will engage attendees with more material.

6th Annual We Heart Eagle Rock Block Party
11:00 am – 6:00 pm, November 26
Eagle Rock Blvd & Colorado Blvd, Eagle Rock
http://www.facebook.com/events/581579565375648/

Several shops in Eagle Rock will participate in this local Small Business Saturday celebration with sidewalk sales and other specials. Every shop will host their own specials, and some will have public activities, such as bounce houses or arts & crafts.

2nd Annual Adams Avenue Spirit Stroll
2:00 pm – 5:00 pm, November 25
Smitty’s Service, Normal Heights, San Diego
http://www.adamsavenuebusiness.com/event-info/adams-avenue-spirit-stroll/

For $24, guests will get to sample holiday cocktails from 14 different locations along Adams Avenue this Saturday afternoon. No one under 21 may participate.

Radioactive Chicken Heads: Live in Tarzana
9:00 pm – 1:00 am, November 26
Maui Sugar Hill Saloon, Tarzana
http://radioactivechickenheads.com/

The Radioactive Chicken Heads will headline a FREE show this Saturday night in Tarzana. No one under 21 may enter.

Death By Stereo Plays “Into The Valley of Death”
9:00 pm – 2:00 am, November 26
Alex’s Bar, Long Beach
http://www.alexsbar.com/event/1379438-death-by-stereo-long-beach/

Hardcore punk band Death By Stereo will headline a show in Long Beach this Sunday night. Tickets to this show cost $13 presale or $15 at the door. No one under 21 may enter.

Patchwork Indie Arts & Crafts Festival
11:00 am – 5:00 pm, November 27
2nd & Sycamore, Downtown Santa Ana
http://dearhandmadelife.com/patchwork-show/

This semi-annual arts & crafts fair consists of a series of Sunday fests at different locations: Long Beach, Oakland, and Santa Ana. As with any typical arts & crafts fair, Patchwork will feature many traditional forms of art and merchandise, but also mixes in alternative art – thinking outside the box, or Rebel Art. Featuring clothing, accessories, home goods, jewelry, pet items, and more, this FREE fest caters to a wide & diverse crowd. Food trucks will serve guests during the fest. Always remember to carry cash, since most vendors only accept cash. The surrounding neighborhood contains plenty of free street parking.

3rd Annual La Habra Tamale Festival
11:00 am – 6:00 pm, November 27
La Habra Community Center, La Habra
http://www.lahabraca.gov/677/Tamale-Festival

Free to attend for all ages, this event will have various food vendors, arts & crafts, merchandise vendors, live music, live entertainment, a churro-eating contest, Santa Claus, and more.

Immersing Into Asian Pop Culture at the 2016 Pacific Media Expo

An expo featuring the expansive world of Eastern culture took place this past weekend, as the 2016 Pacific Media Expo returned to the Pasadena Convention Center. As its name suggests, this expo featured just about everything revolving around Asian pop culture, from the fashion to the fiction to the food to the art to the music and so much more. Attendees would encounter art, music, dance, entertainment, cosplay, fashion, anime, manga, comics, video games, merchandise, accessories, food, drinks, treats, and tons of other things that could keep one occupied for more than just a weekend. Many attendees went all out and dressed for the occasion, while other fans simply attended to check out the latest in Asian pop culture.

Due to the excess amount of photos in this blog post, photos will appear in reduced resolution. Please visit the Facebook album to view all of the photos in a larger resolution.

I attended two out of the three days, so I will do my best to chronicle my adventures at the 2016 Pacific Media Expo. With so much to do, I often found myself bouncing back and forth between rooms, programs, and seminars. Upon my arrival on Friday afternoon, I immediately started to scout out the area to get a feel for the layout of this expo. At one point, I did end up in a section of the convention center dedicated to an entirely different event. Roaming around revealed to me that the expo took place on both sides of the convention center: the ballrooms and the conference rooms on the other side of the theater. Starting with the conference rooms, these rooms held mainly the fashion rooms, with markets, shops, and fashion-based programs in the back room. This side also had the gaming room for those attendees wanting to relax a bit between programs.

After checking out the conference rooms, I roamed over to the ballrooms. The front two ballrooms contained a variety of seminars and programs. The next three ballrooms would contain the Artists’ Market (display), the Main Stage (entertainment), and the Exhibit Hall (vendors). As the Exhibit Hall also contained food vendors in an enclosed space, the scent of food wafted all throughout the room plus a small section of the foyer in front of that ballroom.

Now that I had scouted out the entire expo area, I started to explore the rooms individually to discover the programs. One ballroom had a lip-sync dance show, while another had a panel discussing retro video games. Wandering back to the conference rooms, I discovered a fashion panel presented by a butler café.

As the sun set, the expo’s Opening Ceremonies started to take place. This mainly involved the expo’s special guests introducing themselves, talking about their experience traveling here in Southern California, and previewing what they will do that weekend at the expo. Also around this time, the Swap Meet started to set up in the ballroom foyer, which attracted dozens of attendees to come check out the goods. Typically the items found at the Swap Meet cost less than the items in the Exhibit Hall. Attendees would likely find rare goods as well. Following the Opening Ceremonies, a few more programs took place involving cosplay and martial arts.

Capping off the night, a concert took place featuring Hitomi from a maid café in Akihabara, Japan. Essentially a one-woman show, Hitomi danced and sang in her cutesy style. Since she speaks exclusively Japanese, Hitomi had a translator with her between songs when she spoke to the audience. She also got the audience involved in some sort of Rock-Paper-Scissors game that the maids do regularly at their café in Japan. She gave out autographed posters to those who bested her in that game. After this concert, I called it a night so that I could return the next day with energy to make it through the night.

On Saturday, I arrived at the expo at about the same time as I had on Friday, meaning that I arrived in the middle of another concert, this one featuring Stephanie Yanez. Unlike Hitomi, Stephanie can speak English, so she had no issues communicating with the audience.

Following the concert, I got to check out many more programs and activities of the expo. These activities included a business fashion panel, yoga room, DDR-like game, panel discussing idol culture, meet & greet with Hitomi, live art session, and indie fashion panel.

Just like the previous night, the Swap Meet opened after sunset, attracting dozens of people the come check out the goods. Also at this time, the Fashion Swap Meet took place in the conference rooms area, focused more on apparel and accessories rather than fandom goods.

Saturday’s main event involved the Masquerade Cosplay Contest. Over a dozen attendees participated in this contest to exhibit their outfit and character, since the contest required participants to do something to act in character. Some of the participants merely posed, while others performed some dance routine. After the participants strutted their stuff, an intermission show took place that featured a professional group of women performing their act for the audience. Finally, awards of varying categories went out to the participants.

With the main event over, night had fallen, indicating the start of the more mature programs of the expo. A few Truth Or Dare programs took place, both of which got very dirty as time progressed. After that, the ballrooms converted to a dance hall and a singalong room. The final event in the conference rooms involved speed dating. According to some of the returning attendees, last year’s speed dating delivered a lot of success in terms of matching people up. I had never attended Pacific Media Expo before, and this year’s speed dating broke the expectation of how speed dating should look. Basically, only about seven women showed up, some of which did not have any interest in dating or already had a partner – they participated simply to participate, but not to find romance. Compare that with the 20+ guys that showed up, most of which appeared as the stereotypical hikikomori.

Alas, I did not return to the expo on Sunday, as the first two days had greatly drained all of my energy. Fret not, for I still managed to capture many of the cosplays of the 2016 Pacific Media Expo. Even to those not interested in anime or manga, everyone should attend an expo/con of this nature just to see everyone dressing up in costume. At any expo involving comics, video games, anime, manga, and more, any attendee cannot avoid seeing another guest participating in the inevitable cosplay for the duration of the event. Cosplay has turned into a staple for any sort of expo in this industry, and the fans proudly donned their best gear for this expo. Watch in amazement the best of the best of this year’s Pacific Media Expo.

With the Pacific Media Expo having drawn to a close, it paves the way for additional similar expos in Southern California, one of the world’s largest communities of Asian pop culture outside of Japan. With connections to Anime Impulse, Anime Los Angeles, and Ninja Con, Southern California’s anime & manga industry coexist in a vast community of connected fans & friends. Stay in touch with the Pacific Media Expo to learn about future events and opportunities by liking them on Facebook and following them on Twitter.

At Salute Beer Fest, We Salute Those Who Stood in Line for an Hour Just for a Few Beers

On a weekend with multiple craft beer festivals taking place at the same time, I chose to attend the one least known to the public: Salute Beer Fest. This beer festival took place at The Phoenix Club in Anaheim on Saturday afternoon immediately following Veteran’s Day, where it combined breweries with military-themed vendors and exhibits. VIP admission started at 11:30 am while general admission started at 1pm, and the festival ended at 4:30 pm. Based on what I saw on Salute Beer Fest’s website, this event has taken place across the country in the past; however, it has no links or sources to show for previous festivals. Sadly, this started to show itself as its true form as the event progressed.

An exorbitant amount of issues at this event caused it to leave a sour taste in many people’s mouths. Primarily, the organizers totally botched the entrance procedure. They advertised that VIP admission would start at 11:30 am; however, the staff did not appear ready by then. In fact, volunteers started to unwrap cups and place them out after 11:30 am. The staff did not pre-check any of the attendees waiting in line to enter – they started checking ID’s after the start time. If they wanted to operate more efficiently, they could have checked people in, given them their wristbands and cups, and had them wait to the side to all enter at 11:30 (they had a huge open area to the left where a second line could have waited to enter). the staff also did not delegate the lines properly – they first pulled will-call attendees out for a second line that included the Groupon attendees. After waiting in that line for ten minutes, they said that Groupon needed to get back in the other line that already stretched out to the street. As a result, I ended up standing in line in the hot sun for an hour. Want to know what else they did that totally ruined this experience? Once you get to the front of the line to scan your ticket, the staff charged you a transaction fee before you could enter! They said I needed to pay a $3.75 transaction fee because they did not charge it when they sold tickets online. This outright LIE stacks on top of the Eventbrite fees, meaning that this transaction fee went to an unknown location since whoever bought tickets online already paid an online transaction fee. Most of the attendees frustratingly paid this transaction fee since they had already waited an hour in line, so the frustration of waiting simply caused them to cave up and pay the fee.

After you deal with the fiasco of the entrance, you enter the beer festival area only to discover 17 breweries, some of which appear to have gotten thrown in the last minute. Salute Beer Fest had plenty of mobile food vendors to feed everyone, and enough other vendors to keep people occupied, including a whisky vendor. However, people paid for a beer festival, not to visit food trucks or check out vendors. General admission appears to have gotten in fine, as I did not witness any lines at 1pm.

1. All-American Ale Works
2. Legacy Brewing
3. Knee Deep Brewing
4. Golden Coast Mead
5. Angel City Brewery
6. Hangar 24 Brewery
7. Evans Brewing
8. Ballast Point
9. Big Sky Brewing (no jockey box)
10. Cerveza Imperial (no jockey box)
11. Pyramid Brewing
12. Magic Hat Brewing
13. Sierra Nevada (no jockey box)
14. Bootlegger’s Brewery
15. Lagunitas Brewing
16. Karl Strauss
17. Hess Brewing

Despite my photos making the fest look fine, this event frustrated many so much that they left early, including myself. I had already tasted a beer from every participating brewery within my first hour inside the venue. As far as Orange County beer festivals go, the major ones have over 50 breweries participating, giving people true value for the price they pay. If Salute Beer Fest comes back, save yourself some trouble and do not spend any money on it.

Preview: The 7th Annual Nuke the Fridge Con

The 7th Annual Nuke the Fridge Con returns to the Frank & Son Collectible Show in Rowland Heights this Saturday. This FREE and all-ages event showcases countless forms of pop culture, reaching out to fans of nearly anything imaginable. Taking place inside a large warehouse with multiple aisles filled with vendors and booths, the Nuke the Fridge Con has all the memorabilia to satisfy any collector’s dream. From comics to video games to anime to sports, any visitor can easily find something that will interest him/her, or at the very least find the right gift for friends and/or family. In the previous years, this event had lasted two days: Saturday and Sunday. This year, it will only last for one day due to the celebrity appearances, namely those of professional wrestling.

The Nuke the Fridge Con attracts thousands of visitors annually due to its free cost and amount of content. As it takes place in mid-November typically, this event makes a great opportunity to search for holiday gifts for your friends and/or family. With so much to see here, you have little reason to not go to Nuke the Fridge Con. Give them a like on Facebook and a follow on Twitter to see what else they have planned.

Upcoming Events: November 14-20, 2016

13th Annual San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival
November 14-20
Various locations, San Diego
http://www.sandiegowineclassic.com/

All week, check out all things food & wine all over San Diego County. From wine tastings to cooking classes to seminars to food sampling, if it has to do with food or drinks, it will happen during this time. On Saturday, experience the grand finale with a massive food & wine tasting festival at Embarcadero Marina Park North in Downtown San Diego. General admission to this festival costs $145 and starts at 12pm, while early admission costs $185 and starts at 11am. No one under 21 may attend.

Women’s Beer Forum
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm, November 16
Eagle Rock Brewery, Eagle Rock
http://www.eaglerockbrewery.com/womens-beer-forum/

$14 gets you a flight of four beers from various breweries. Judging by historical posts about this event, it appears that men may not participate in this.

Beaujolais Nouveau Day
November 17
Worldwide
http://www.beaujolaisnouveauday.com/

Every year on the third Thursday of November, wine enthusiasts worldwide celebrate the arrival of this passionate wine with fireworks, music, festivals, and more. Check in with your favorite local restaurant, bar, or winery to see if they will participate in the celebration of this glorious wine.

Creamistry Koreatown Grand Opening
12:00 pm – 10:00 pm, November 17
Creamistry, Koreatown
http://creamistry.com/
http://www.facebook.com/events/153460365121294/

A new Creamistry opens their doors the public this Thursday in Koreatown. The first 200 customers receive a free t-shirt with the purchase of any item. From 3pm to 5pm, all customers receive one free single scoop of ice cream.

AleSmith Cask Nite
5:00 pm – 10:00 pm, November 17
Meat Up BBQ, Placentia
http://www.meatupbbq.com/
http://www.facebook.com/events/221444861609772/

Meat Up BBQ brings back their monthly pint nite this Thursday night. Buy a beer, and keep the glass while supplies last.

Pennywise: Live in Southern California
8:00 pm – 1:00 am, November 17, House of Blues, Downtown San Diego http://www.houseofblues.com/sandiego/EventDetail?tmeventid=0A0050FD9C4F2A0F
8:00 pm – 1:00 am, November 18, Majestic Ventura Theater, Ventura http://www.venturatheater.net/event/1272249-pennywise-playing-about-ventura/
http://www.pennywisdom.com/

Famous punk rock band Pennywise currently tours across the country, and that tour will conclude on the west coast this weekend. Ticket prices to these all-ages shows vary, so click on a show’s link to view prices.

Nekromantix: Live in Southern California
8:00 pm – 1:00 am, November 17, Brick By Brick, Linda Vista, San Diego http://brickbybrick.ticketfly.com/event/1376864-nekromantix-special-guests-san-diego/
8:00 pm – 1:00 am, November 18, The Observatory, Santa Ana http://www.observatoryoc.com/node/2802
http://www.nekromantix.net/

Popular psychobilly band Nekromantix currently tours across the country, and that tour will conclude in Southern California this weekend. Ticket prices and age limits vary by show, so click on a show’s link for details.

2016 Los Angeles Auto Show
9:00 am – 9:00 pm, November 18-27
Los Angeles Convention Center, Los Angeles
http://laautoshow.com/

Check out the newest and latest cars, trucks, exotics, and more. General admission costs $12 on weekdays or $15 on weekends.

The Mom Made Market Orange County
3:00 pm – 9:00 pm, November 18
10:00 am – 3:00 pm, November 19
OC Fair & Event Center, Costa Mesa
http://the-mom-made-market.ticketleap.com/the-mom-made-market-orange-county/

Visit over a hundred arts & crafts vendors this weekend at the OC Fair in Costa Mesa. Admission to this all-ages event ranges from $2 to $8.

Progressive International Motorcycle Show – Long Beach
3:00 pm – 8:00 pm, November 18
9:30 am – 8:00 pm, November 19
10:00 am – 5:00 pm, November 20
Long Beach Convention Center, Downtown Long Beach
http://motorcycleshows.com/longbeach

See all-things motorcycles this weekend at the Long Beach Convention Center. Admission varies, with a one-day adult general admission costing $16.

La Quinta Brewing’s 3rd Anniversary Party
5:00 pm – 9:00 pm, November 18
La Quinta Brewing, Palm Desert
http://www.laquintabrewing.com/

La Quinta Brewing turns three years old this week, and to celebrate, they will have their special anniversary beer on tap plus a few other special beers. In addition, they will have a food vendor on site, plus live music throughout the night. This event has no ticket or cover charge – simply show up, and enjoy good times.

Santa Ana Art Mixer
7:00 pm – 10:00 pm, November 18
Bowers Museum, Santa Ana
http://www.downtown-santaana.com/event/santa-ana-arts-mixer/

Mix and mingle with local artists and makers this Friday night in Santa Ana. Free to attend, this event requires registration via their website.

The Aquabats: Live in Anaheim
7:00 pm – 12:00 am, November 18
City National Grove of Anaheim, Anaheim
http://www.theaquabats.com/
http://www.citynationalgroveofanaheim.com/events/detail/the-aquabats

Legendary ska-punk band The Aquabats will headline a show in Anaheim this Friday night. Tickets to this all-ages show cost $25.

1st Annual Punk Rock for Preemies
9:00 pm – 2:00 am, November 18
Paladino’s, Tarzana
http://www.facebook.com/events/1112696532155702/

Enjoy some local punk rock this Friday night in Tarzana. Tickets to this show cost $15, and a portion of ticket sales goes to charity. No one under 21 may enter.

41st Annual Turkey Trot
6:00 am – 12:00 pm, November 19
Vincent Lugo Park, San Gabriel
http://www.sangabrielcity.com/530/Turkey-Trot

A Thanksgiving fun run takes place in San Gabriel this Saturday morning. Registration costs $35 per person. As with any fun run, participants do not receive prizes for winning.

The Color Run 5k – Orange County
7:00 am – 1:00 pm, November 19
Huntington State Beach, Huntington Beach
http://thecolorrun.com/locations/huntington-beach-ca/

The color run that started it all returns to Huntington State Beach this Saturday morning. This fun run takes the racing out of a 5k or 10k, and places participants in a running course where they will get showered with bright colors. All runners should wear white for this run, as they run through the course and absorb all the colors flying through the air. Registration for this color run costs $50 per solo participant, or $45 per person if registering as a team of four or more. Waves of runners will start at 9am and launch every few minutes following that for up to two hours, so do not fret about getting there on time.

Bubble Run – San Diego
8:00 am – 12:00 pm, November 19
Sleep Train Amphitheater, Chula Vista
http://www.bubblerun.com/upcoming-locations/san-diego-ca/

Tired of the same 5k run everywhere? If you have had your fill of color runs and glow runs, try your hand at the Bubble Run. Participants wear all white and run through colored foam bogs in this 5k race around the Sleep Train Amphitheater. Registration costs $40, and all levels of runners may participate. Space will fill up fast, so register early, and try to carpool to this event.

Barbells for Beers
9:00 am – 1:00 pm, November 19
Wicks Brewing, Riverside
http://www.wicksbrewing.com/
http://www.eventbrite.com/e/barbells-for-beers-tickets-26486089607

Get a good morning workout with a partner, then cap it off with some food and beer this Saturday in Riverside. Registration costs $60 per team.

7th Annual Nuke the Fridge Con
9:00 am – 5:00 pm, November 19
Frank & Son’s, Rowland Heights
http://nukethefridge.com/

Check out Nuke the Fridge Con happening this Saturday in Rowland Heights. This FREE event features many famous people in the comics industry, such as Nichelle Nichols, Billy Dee Williams, and more.

2016 Designer Con
9:00 am – 6:00 pm, November 19
10:00 am – 5:00 pm, November 20
Pasadena Convention Center, Pasadena
http://www.designercon.com/

This design event takes place this weekend in Pasadena. What started as an expo for designer toys and collectibles has evolved into including apparel and accessories. Designer Con now features toys, apparel, art, crafts, and more, ranging from fine, traditional, modern, urban, and contemporary. Single-day admission costs $10, while weekend admission costs $15.

31st Annual Elves’ Faire
10:00 am – 4:00 pm, November 19
Pasadena Waldorf School, Altadena
http://www.elves-faire.com/

This FREE and all-ages fair will allow visitors to enjoy medieval activities, games, live music, food, entertainment, and more.

Hermosa Beach Holiday Sidewalk Festival
11:00 am – 6:00 pm, November 19-20
Downtown Hermosa Beach
http://business.hbchamber.net/events/details/holiday-sidewalk-festival-3399

Check out this free and all-ages event this weekend in Downtown Hermosa Beach. Visitors will find arts & crafts, live entertainment, music, dancing, games, sidewalk sales, food & drink specials, and more.

Gunwhale Ales Grand Opening
11:00 am – 8:30 pm, November 19-20
Gunwhale Ales, Costa Mesa
http://www.gunwhaleales.com/

Another Orange County brewery opens their doors to the public this weekend in Costa Mesa. This event costs nothing to attend – simply show up, and enjoy a cold one or two.

Cranksgiving Los Angeles XVI
12:00 pm – 2:00 pm, November 19
Echo Park Lake, Echo Park
http://www.facebook.com/events/318338861837453/

A bicycle ride, scavenger hunt, and food drive collide in one event this Saturday. Bring out your bike, some fitness gear, and some cash, and race to see who can collect or buy the most food for the food drive charity. The event itself costs nothing to attend, but participants will need some money to pay for food to donate.

5th Annual Alpine Kraft Bierfest
12:00 pm – 4:00 pm, November 19
Alpine Village, Torrance
http://www.alpinevillagecenter.com/events/kraft-bierfest/

More than 30 microbreweries will serve over 50 different beers this Saturday afternoon at Alpine Village in Torrance. General admission to this beer festival costs $25 presale or $30 at the door. No one under 21 may attend.

Stereo Brewing’s IPA Day
12:00 pm – 12:00 am, November 19
Stereo Brewing, Placenta
http://www.stereobrewing.com/

Recently-opened Stereo Brewing will release their first batch of IPA’s this Saturday, and you can taste them all and score a t-shirt to commemorate the release. A flight of five beers plus the t-shirt costs $25 presale or $35 at the counter.

The Rare Experience Beer Fest
1:00 pm – 6:00 pm, November 19
Stout, Studio City
http://www.stoutburgersandbeers.com/beerfest/

Sample some really rare beers from across the nation this Saturday afternoon in Studio City. General admission costs $50, starts at 2pm, and comes with ten 4oz beers. VIP admission costs $70, starts at 1pm, and comes with 12 4oz beers. Attendees should bring extra cash to pay for food at the venue. No one under 21 may attend.

Helm’s Brewing 4-Year Anniversary
4:00 pm – 10:00 pm, November 19
Helm’s Brewing, Kearny Mesa, San Diego
http://www.helmsbrewingco.com/
http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2708719

Helm’s Brewing turns four years old this week, and to celebrate, they will have a plethora of special brews on tap at their tasting room in Kearny Mesa this Saturday. $25 gets you a souvenir glass plus ten beer tasters, or pay $5 more for unlimited beers tasters for the duration of your visit. No one under 21 may attend.

A Drinking Game: So I Married an Axe Murderer
8:00 pm – 11:00 pm, November 19
ACME Studios, North Hollywood
http://www.adrinkinggame.com/

Enjoy some drinks and solve a mystery this Saturday night in North Hollywood. Admission costs $20 but does not include alcohol – attendees should bring their own drinks.

Suicidal Tendencies: Live in Ventura
8:00 pm – 1:00 am, November 19
Majestic Ventura Theater, Ventura
http://www.suicidaltendencies.com/

Legendary hardcore band Suicidal Tendencies currently tours across the nation, and that nation concludes in Ventura this Saturday night. Tickets to this all-ages show cost $25 presale or $28 at the door.

The Dwarves: Live in Downtown Los Angeles
9:00 pm – 12:00 am, November 19
LA Space Camp, Downtown Los Angeles
http://www.thedwarves.com/

Punk rock band The Dwarves will headline a show in Downtown LA this Saturday night. The cover for this show costs $10. No one under 21 may enter.

Youth Gone Mad: Live in Downtown Los Angeles
10:00 pm – 2:00 am, November 19
Five Star Bar, Downtown Los Angeles
http://www.facebook.com/events/989922907784862/

Rock out to some local punk rock this Saturday night in Downtown LA. The cover for this show costs $7. No one under 21 may enter.

26th Annual Encinitas Fall Street Fair
9:00 am – 4:00 pm, November 20
South Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas
http://www.encinitas101.com/events/holidaystreetfair/

This FREE street fair takes place this Sunday in Encinitas. Featuring 450 unique food, arts & crafts vendors, five music stages, rides & games, and a beer garden hosted by Stone Brewing and Port Brewing, people of all ages will enjoy this street fair. Due to the compact nature of this area, parking can get extremely difficult to locate. Arrive early, or take public transportation to arrive safely.

24th Annual Arroyo Arts Collective Discovery Tour
9:30 am – 5:00 pm, November 20
Southwest Museum, Mount Washington
http://www.arroyoartscollective.org/

This Sunday, check out homes and studios of artists and craftspeople around Highland Park, Eagle Rock, and surrounding areas. This self-guided tour costs $10 presale or $15 on the day of the event, and allows access to art purchasing, building tours, and more. While strolling, check out some of the great places to grab a bite or sip, such as Fusion Burgers, Donut Friend, The Oinkster, and more.

39th Pasadena Doo Dah Parade
11:00 am – 2:00 pm, November 20
Colorado Blvd, East Pasadena
http://pasadenadoodahparade.info/

The weird and wacky get their own parade this Sunday afternoon in Pasadena. Register on the website to secure a spot along the parade route to watch, free for all ages.

2016 Miracle on Main Street – Tree Lighting
2:00 pm – 7:00 pm, November 20
Main Street, Downtown Huntington Beach
http://www.hbdowntown.com/
http://www.facebook.com/events/1674782902771762/

Free to attend for all ages, a Christmas tree-lighting ceremony will take place in Downtown Huntington Beach this Sunday afternoon, as well as a plethora of other festive events.

1st Annual San Diego Ramen Festival
4:00 pm – 8:00 pm, November 20
Sushi On A Roll, Downtown San Diego
http://sdramenfest.com/

Pig out on ramen, sake, and more this Sunday evening in Downtown San Diego. General admission costs $35 presale or $40 at the door, and comes with four ramen samples plus a ticket good for a fifth ramen sample or a beverage. VIP admission costs $60 presale or $65 at the door, includes two additional tickets, a goodie bag, and access to a VIP area. No one under 21 may attend.

Beef It Up – Eat Chow Has Opened Their Third Location in Downtown Santa Ana

Southern California truly represents a mecca for unique eats. As a huge melting pot, Southern Californians can find almost any type of food from all over the world here. Aside from the variety, we can find all sorts of levels of cooking skills as well. From the cheap fast food spots to the fancy pricey joints, a restaurant exists for just about anybody. You can have a place with something fancy like lobster tacos that cost a few dollars. On the other hand, you can have a place with something common like a hamburger that costs a bit more for greater quality. For the latter, these restaurants that serve up common foods of higher quality typically fall under the moniker of a gastropub, and a lot of these have popped up across the nation in the past handful of years. In fact, another one popped up in Downtown Santa Ana last week under the name Eat Chow.

Last Wednesday, Eat Chow opened the doors to their third location in Downtown Santa Ana to the public. This humble restaurant has garnered a huge following ever since their discovery by the Orange County locals. Eat Chow does not boast too much, perhaps because their foods speaks for itself. Eat Chow takes common foods and makes them well, from their burgers to the sandwiches to the entrées and more. Clearly a lot of care has gone into the dishes, evident by how much of the food’s natural flavor one can taste. In addition to the heightened food quality, Eat Chow doles up generous portion sizes too. Their Ancho & Coffee Crusted Petite Filet plate costs $18 and gets you a lot on the plate. Filet Mignon normally costs a lot more than that, so you get great value at Eat Chow with anything they serve, even their drinks. With a vast lineup of beverages, it would take someone months to sip on everything that Eat Chow has to offer.

See what other things Eat Chow has in store by liking them on Facebook and following them on Twitter.