Upcoming Events: January 23-29, 2017

Los Angeles Restaurant Week
January 13-27
Various locations
http://www.discoverlosangeles.com/dinela-los-angeles-restaurant-week

This dining event showcases the best in food Los Angeles has to offer. All participating restaurants will feature prix-fixe menus for locals and visitors alike. Lunches range from $15-25, while dinners range from $25-45.

11th Annual Newport Beach Restaurant Week
January 16-29
Participating restaurants in Newport Beach
http://dinenb.com/restaurant-week/

This 14-day period of restaurant specials takes place at participating restaurants in Newport Beach. Many restaurants will serve special prix-fixe three-course meals ranging from as low as $10 to as high as $40, or more for a few select locations.

Puesto Irvine Grand Opening
5:00 pm – 8:00 pm, January 24
Puesto, Irvine
http://eatpuesto.com/
http://puestograndopeningwithlocale.eventbrite.com/

Popular San Diego Mexican restaurant Puesto will open their first Orange County location this week. The $10 admission gets you in one free margarita (for those 21 or over) and free small eats while supplies last.

OC Roller Derby Orientation
7:30 pm – 8:30 pm, January 25
The Rinks, Huntington Beach
http://www.ocderby.com/ticketsevents/2017/1/25/new-skater-orientation

If you ever wanted to try roller derby, you have a chance to join a league. Click the link to send your information to them, and then show up to orientation this Wednesday night in Huntington Beach.

Animé Los Angeles 13
2:00 pm – 9:00 pm, January 26
9:00 am – 10:00 pm, January 27-28
9:00 am – 2:00 pm, January 29
Ontario Convention Center, Ontario
http://www.animelosangeles.org/

Anime & manga fans will not want to miss Animé LA this weekend, an expo with almost everything imaginable related to anime. From workshops to panels to demos to contests to live music to dances to adult content and more, Animé LA will surely contain something to sate your anime needs. A full weekend pass costs $70, while single-day passes cost $35.

Meat Up BBQ’s 2nd Year Anniversary
5:00 pm – 10:00 pm, January 26
Meat Up BBQ, Placentia
http://www.meatupbbq.com/
http://www.facebook.com/events/129099250927298/

Meat Up BBQ turns two years old this week, and to celebrate, they will have special beers on tap, food specials, as well as an anniversary glass available to patrons this Thursday night. This event has no admission fee.

NHL Fan Fair – Los Angeles 2017
5:00 pm – 10:00 pm, January 26-27
10:00 am – 8:00 pm, January 28
Los Angeles Convention Center, Los Angeles
http://www.nhl.com/fans/all-star/fan-fair

Hockey fans will not want to miss this event for all things NHL this weekend in Downtown LA. Visitors will find vendors, demos, autograph signings mini hockey rinks, and more. Tickets cost $20 for adults, with a $5 discount available for seniors, children, students, and active military. Parking at the convention center costs $20 per vehicle.

Happy Hour Benefit: Big Brothers Big Sisters Mixer
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm, January 26
Wild Goose Tavern, Costa Mesa
http://www.goosebar.com/
http://www.facebook.com/events/1261578187234244/

This Thursday night, Costa Mesa’s Wild Goose Tavern will have a charity fundraiser event. 100% of sales during this time will go to charity. They will also have complimentary appetizers during this time.

1st Annual The Classic Auto Show
10:00 am – 7:00 pm, January 27
9:00 am – 7:00 pm, January 28
9:00 am – 5:00 pm, January 29
Los Angeles Convention Center, Los Angeles
http://www.theclassicautoshow.com/

A new car expo debuts at the LA Convention Center this weekend. Come see all things automotive, from model cars to accessories and more. Tickets to this expo cost $25 presale or $30 at the door. Children may enter for $10. Parking at the convention center costs $20 per vehicle.

SoCal Etsy Guild Market – Riverside
10:00 am – 9:00 pm, January 27-28
11:00 am – 7:00 pm, January 29
Galleria at Tyler, Riverside
http://socaletsyguild.com/

Free to attend for all ages, the SoCal Etsy Guild will hold its monthly vendor market this weekend, filled with dozens of vendors selling apparel, accessories, and more.

2017 Orange County Home & Garden Show
12:00 pm – 7:00 pm, January 27
10:00 am – 7:00 pm, January 28
10:00 am – 6:00 pm, January 29
Anaheim Convention Center, Anaheim
http://www.homeshowconsultants.com/

This free and all-ages expo will showcase the latest in home improvement, remodeling, interior-design, decorating, landscaping, and more. Bring cash for parking, which costs between $5 to $10.

36th Annual Tet Festival
4:00 pm – 10:00 pm, January 27
11:00 am – 10:00 pm, January 28
11:00 am – 9:00 pm, January 29
OC Fair & Event Center, Costa Mesa
http://www.tetfestival.org/

Celebrate the Lunar New Year at this family-fun festival this weekend at the OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa. Costing just $5 per person to enter, this festival will feature hundreds of booths selling merchandise, crafts, food, and more. Children will love all the rides available, while everyone will enjoy the music, dance, and parade. Parking at the venue costs $8 – see the website for additional info on where to park for free and take a shuttle.

2017 Golden State Tattoo Expo
4:00 pm – 12:00 am, January 27
12:00 pm – 12:00 am, January 28
12:00 pm – 7:00 pm, January 29
Pasadena Convention Center, Pasadena
http://www.goldenstatetattooexpo.com/

Check out hundreds of tattoo artists from around the globe at this tattoo convention this weekend in Pasadena. Admission costs $25 per day or $60 for the entire weekend.

12th Annual San Diego Tet Festival
5:00 pm – 10:00 pm, January 27
11:00 am – 10:00 pm, January 28
11:00 am – 9:00 pm, January 29
Mira Mesa Community Park, San Diego
http://www.sdtet.com/

Celebrate the Lunar New Year at this festival all weekend at Mira Mesa Park in San Diego. Free to attend for all ages, this fest will feature many traditional music and dance performances, fashion shows, merchandise vendors, and plenty of food & drinks.

Flavors: Historic California
7:00 pm – 9:30 pm, January 27
The Autry Museum, Griffith Park
http://theautry.org/events/special-events/flavors-historic-california

Immerse yourself in the wonders of California’s “Farm To Table” culinary phenomenon this Friday night at The Autry Museum. Admission costs $50 and provides unlimited food samples while supplies last.

Pancakes & Booze Art Show
7:00 pm – 1:00 am, January 27
Fifty Seven Degrees, San Diego
http://www.pancakesandbooze.com/

For just a $5 cover, guests get treated to unlimited pancakes and many artists from across the country showcasing their works. Guests can also witness body painting, stencil art, art battles, sculptures, graffiti, and more. No one under 21 may enter.

Alex’s Bar 17th Anniversary Shows
8:00 pm – 1:00 am, January 27-28
Alex’s Bar, Long Beach
http://www.alexsbar.com/event/1407167-strung-out-long-beach/
http://www.alexsbar.com/event/1410036-throw-rag-long-beach/

Long Beach’s Alex’s Bar turns seventeen years old this week, and to celebrate, they will have two nights of punk rock this weekend. Tickets to each of these show vary in price, so click on a show’s link for details. No one under 21 may enter.

SoCal Spartan Race Super & Sprint 2017
6:00 am – 6:00 pm, January 28
Lake Elsinore Diamond, Lake Elsinore
http://www.spartan.com/en/race/detail/1730/overview

Test your might at one of the more well-known national obstacle courses this Saturday in Lake Elsinore. Run, climb, crawl, and traverse all sorts of obstacles as you make your way to the finish line for sweet bragging rights. Registration varies, with the basic registration costing $159 per individual – see the website for a breakdown of all prices.

Santee Active Lifestyle Expo
9:00 am – 1:00 pm, January 28
Santee Trolley Square, Santee
http://www.santeeactiveexpo.com/

Free to attend for all ages, this event in Santee will with athletic demostrations, free breakfast (while supplies last), vendors, activities, live entertainment, workshops, and more.

Bricks LA 2017
10:00 am – 5:00 pm, January 28-29
Pasadena Convention Center, Pasadena
http://www.bricksla.com/

The ultimate all-ages Lego convention comes to the Pasadena Convention Center this weekend. For just $10 admission, gain access to dozens of Lego vendors, artists, displays, interactive demos, and more.

APCA Asian Pacific Lunar New Year Festival
10:00 am – 7:00 pm, January 28
Mission Inn Courtyard, Downtown Riverside
http://lunarfestriverside.com/event-101/

At this free and all-ages festival this Saturday in Downtown Riverside, celebrate Lunar Yew Year with food, entertainment, vendors, merchandise, entertainment, arts & crafts, games, music, exhibits, fireworks, and more.

Hello Kitty Cafe Pop-Up – Torrance Appearance
10:00 am – 8:00 pm, January 28
Del Amo Fashion Center, Torrance
http://hellokittycafe.us/
http://www.facebook.com/events/1377190198967001/

SoCal Hello Kitty fans will not want to miss this rare opportunity to experience the Hello Kitty Cafe. This weekend, visitors will enjoy macarons, minicakes, and other Hello Kitty treats not found anywhere else.

Lunar New Year Festival 2017 in Monterey Park
10:00 am – 9:00 pm, January 28-29
Garvey Avenue, Monterey Park
http://www.lunarnewyears.com/

Celebrate Chinese New Year on the streets of Monterey Park this weekend. At this free and all-ages street fair, visitors can expect to find food, treats, vendors, arts & crafts, live entertainment, games, and more. Consult with the website to see where to park.

2nd Annual San Gabriel Lunar New Year Festival
11:00 am – 10:00 pm, January 28
San Gabriel Mission Playhouse, San Gabriel
http://sglunarnewyear.org/

Celebrate the upcoming lunar new year with this FREE and all-ages festival in San Gabriel this Saturday afternoon. Visitors will find music, dance, art, food trucks, a beer & wine garden, tea garden, live calligraphy, fortune telling, and more.

Skyland Ale Works Grand Re-Opening
12:00 pm – 10:00 pm, January 28
Skyland Ale Works, Corona
http://www.skylandaleworks.com/

Skyland Ale Works has expanded their tasting room and will finally reopen their doors to the public this Saturday afternoon. Stop on by and check out their new space.

1st Annual Los Angeles Beer & Food Festival
2:00 pm – 6:00 pm, January 28
Mack Sennett Studios, Silverlake
http://labrewersguild.org/

The LA Brewers Guild will put on their first beer festival this Saturday afternoon in Silverlake. General admission costs $60 and starts at 3pm, while VIP admission costs $75 and starts at 2pm. All attendees receive a souvenir glass and unlimited food & beer while supplies last. No one under 21 may attend.

Night On Broadway
4:00 pm – 11:00 pm, January 28
Globe Theater, Downtown Los Angeles
http://nightonbroadway.la/

An evening of arts, culture and, entertainment arrives in Downtown LA this Saturday night. Check the website linked above for a full list of events, which details any admission fees or age limits.

Out Of The Park Pizza 6th Anniversary Party
6:00 pm – 10:00 pm, January 28
Out Of The Park Pizza, Anaheim
http://www.outoftheparkpizza.co/
http://www.facebook.com/events/738608069624045/

Out Of The Park Pizza will celebrate their sixth year in business this weekend and they want you to join in on the festivities with lots of strong beers. They have not posted any information yet, but in previous years, it acted as a beer festival, costing about $40 general admission for access to unlimited food and beer while supplies last. Previous years also had VIP admission for $10 more to gain access to VIP-exclusive beers.

Smut Peddlers @ The Observatory
8:00 pm – 1:00 pm, January 28
The Observatory, Santa Ana
http://www.smutpeddlers.net/

Get your weekly dose of punk rock this Saturday night in Santa Ana with the Smut Peddlers and more. Tickets to this all-ages show cost $10.

Museums Free-For-All
January 29
Participating Museums, Southern California
http://www.socalmuseums.org/

This Saturday, participating Southern Californian museums will allows visitors in free of charge. Check the website linked above for a full list of participating locations.

CalComicCon 2017
9:30 am – 4:30 pm, January 29
Yorba Linda Community Center, Yorba Linda
http://www.calcomiccon.com/

A small comic expo will come to Yorba Linda this Sunday. Admission to this all-ages event costs $10, and will contain dozens of comic artists and vendors. I do not expect a heavy cosplay population, but the event still will have some.

5th Annual Lunar New Year Celebration
11:00 am – 3:00 pm, January 29
Westfield Santa Anita, Arcadia
http://www.westfield.com/santaanita/events/all-events/lunar-new-year-celebration-event/36625

Enjoy a free and all-ages Lunar New Year celebration this Saturday in Arcadia with live entertainment, arts & crafts, games, specials, and more.

Viejos Tiempos Ska Fest
5:00 pm – 1:00 am, January 29
Union Nightclub, Mid-Wilshire, Los Angeles
http://www.facebook.com/events/360877877608028/

Get your skanking on at this skacore show this Sunday night in Los Angeles. Tickets to this all-ages show cost $20.

Punk Rock Revolution IV
7:00 pm – 2:00 am, January 29
Blacklight District Lounge, Long Beach
http://www.facebook.com/events/1337590166265458/

Release some inner aggression at this FREE local punk rock show in Long Beach this Sunday night. No one under 21 may enter.

Upcoming Events: November 9-15, 2015

7th Annual San Diego Beer Week
November 6-15
San Diego County
http://sdbw.org/

This 10-day festival celebrates the prominence of craft beer in San Diego County. During these ten days, restaurants, bars, breweries, and other businesses will host special events and hold special deals all pertaining to craft beer. Check the website for a list of all events and businesses participating in San Diego Beer Week.

Green Flash 13th Anniversary Release: Hand Shake IPA
12:00 pm – 9:00 pm, November 9
Green Flash Brewing, Sorrento Valley, San Diego
http://www.greenflashbrew.com/event/green-flash-13th-anniversary-release-event-hand-shake-ipa-20151109/

Green Flash Brewing releases their 13th anniversary beer today at their tasting room down in San Diego. Enjoy the Hand Shake IPA all day in the tasting room, meet the brewers from Green Flash and Alpine Beer Company from 4pm to 6pm, and check out the various 13th anniversary merchandise available for sale.

The Fall of Troy: Adventour Time
6:30 pm – 11:30 pm, November 10
The Irenic, North Park, San Diego
http://www.sodabarmusic.com/calendar.php?event_id=2532
http://thefalloftroy.com/

Post-hardcore band The Fall of Troy currently tours across the nation, and that tour swings through Southern California this week. Ticket prices for these all-ages shows depend on the location, so click on a show’s link above for details.

The Menzingers: On Tour
6:00 pm – 11:00 pm, November 10
The Observatory, North Park, San Diego
http://observatorysd.com/?event_id=6065355
http://themenzingers.com/

Punk band The Menzingers currently tour across the nation, and that tour swings through Southern California this week. Tickets to these all-ages shows vary, so click on a show’s link above for details.

The Briefs: Live in Southern California
7:30 pm – 12:30 am, November 10, The Echoplex, Echo Park http://www.theecho.com/event/961599-briefs-los-angeles/
8:00 pm – 1:00 am, November 12, Soda Bar, Normal Heights, San Diego http://www.sodabarmusic.com/calendar.php?event_id=2593
http://www.thebriefsofficial.com/

Rock out to punk rock bands this weekend in Los Angeles and/or San Diego. No one under 21 may enter any of these shows.

Swingin’ Utters: On Tour
8:00 pm – 1:00 am, November 11, The Roxy Theatre, West Hollywood http://www.theroxy.com/event/877665-swingin-utters-west-hollywood/
8:00 pm – 1:00 am, November 12, The Garage, Ventura http://holdmyticket.com/checkout/event/221151
9:00 pm – 2:00 am, November 13, The Hideout, Normal Heights, San Diego http://www.eventbrite.com/e/swingin-utters-san-diego-music-thing-tickets-18196283574
8:00 pm – 1:00 am, November 14, Slide Bar, Fullerton http://www.slidebarfullerton.com/calendar
http://swinginutters.com/

Punk band Swingin’ Utters currently tour across the nation, and that tour swings through Southern California this week. Each show has a different ticket price and age limit, so click on a show’s link for details.

Avengers Superheroes Half Marathon Weekend
10:00 am – 12:00 am, November 12
5:30 am – 8:00 pm, November 13
5:30 am – 4:00 pm, November 14
5:30 am – 11:30 am, November 15
Disneyland Resort, Anaheim
http://www.rundisney.com/avengers-half-marathon/

The Avengers Superheroes Half Marathon returns this weekend with a plethora of things to see and do. Participate in any of the races, check out the health & fitness expo, and stick around for after-parties throughout the weekend. The website has an extensive list of everything going on this weekend, so consult with the website for more details.

Business & Beer @ Strand Brewing
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm, November 12
Strand Brewing, Torrance
http://businessnbeer.com/strand-brewing-company-november-12-2015/

This monthly networking event for small business owners visits a South Bay brewery every second Thursday of the month. This week, they will hit up Strand Brewing in Torrance. If you have involvement with a small business, love craft beer, or both, then stop by this Thursday night.

The Misfits: On Tour
7:00 pm – 12:00 am, November 12, Majestic Ventura Theater, Ventura http://www.venturatheater.net/event/892239-misfits-ventura/
7:00 pm – 12:00 am, November 13, The Glass House, Pomona http://www.theglasshouse.us/event/884465-misfits-pomona/
7:00 pm – 12:00 am, November 14-15, The Roxy Theatre, West Hollywood http://www.theroxy.com/event/861381-misfits-west-hollywood/
http://www.misfits.com/

Legendary punk band The Misfits currently tour across the nation, and that tour sweeps through Southern California this week. These all-ages shows have different ticket prices, so click on a show’s link for more details.

Craft Beer + Bites @ SILO
6:00 pm – 9:00 pm, November 12
SILO in Makers Quarter, San Diego
http://www.eventbrite.com/e/craft-beer-bites-beer-week-edition-tickets-18397901619

This mini beer fest takes place close to Downtown San Diego this Thursday evening. For $30 presale or $35 at the door, attendees get treated to ten pairings of tapas and craft beer. In addition, attendees will find outdoor games (bocce ball, beanbag toss, glorified Jenga, and more) and local designers/makers. Attendees may even bring their pets as well! No one under 21 may attend.

Downtown Los Angeles Art Walk (Second Thursdays)
6:00 pm – 10:00 pm, November 12
Downtown Los Angeles
http://downtownartwalk.org/

This free monthly event takes place over many blocks in Downtown Los Angeles. Many galleries will open late, and some parking lots will contain more art, vendors, food trucks, entertainment, and more. Unless you know business owners, free parking barely exists in Downtown LA, although some meters only operate until 8pm. First-time visitors should attend with someone who has gone here prior.

Manic Hispanic: Live in Southern California
8:00 pm – 1:00 am, November 13, Karman Bar, Laguna Niguel http://www.eventbrite.com/e/english-presents-manic-hispanic-tickets-18988152074
8:30 pm – 1:30 am, November 14, Characters Sports Bar, Pomona http://www.gonzopresents.com/event/224694

Manic Hispanic will headline two shows in Southern California this week. Tickets to these shows vary in price, so click on a show’s link for details. No one under 21 may enter either of these shows.

Lagwagon: On Tour
8:00 pm – 1:00 am, November 13, The Troubadour, West Hollywood http://www.troubadour.com/event/932953-lagwagon-performing-trashed-los-angeles/
7:00 pm – 12:00 am, November 14, The Observatory, North Park, San Diego http://observatorysd.com/?event_id=6126545
8:00 pm – 1:00 am, November 15, The Troubadour, West Hollywood http://www.troubadour.com/event/932957-lagwagon-performing-hoss-los-angeles/
http://www.lagwagon.com/

Punk band Lagwagon currently tours across the nation, and that tour moves through Southern California this week. Tickets to these all-ages shows vary in price, so click on a show’s link above for details.

Radioactive Chicken Heads @ El Cid
9:30 pm – 12:30 am, November 13
El Cid, Silverlake
http://www.radioactivechickenheads.com/

Rock out this Friday the 13th with these funky rock bands in Silverlake. The cover for this show costs $13.

Bubble Run – San Diego
8:00 am – 12:00 pm, November 14
Sleep Train Amphitheater, Chula Vista
http://www.bubblerun.com/upcoming-locations/san-diego/

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.

6th Annual Nuke the Fridge Con
9:00 am – 5:00 pm, November 14
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 Sarah Underwood, Stan Lee, and more. The first 100 guests receive a goodie bag! Please note that this event now only lasts one day instead of the full weekend like in previous years.

Repticon Los Angeles
9:00 am – 5:00 pm, November 14
10:00 am – 4:00 pm, November 15
OC Fair & Event Center, Costa Mesa
http://repticon.com/losangeles.html

Check out two days of reptiles, amphibians, exotic pets, pet products, seminars, and more this weekend at the OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa. General admission starts at 10am and costs $15 for both days, $10 for one day, or $5 for children. Online-only VIP admission costs $12 for adults or $5 for children, allows admission to both days, and allows entry at 9am on Saturday.

Escondido Tamale Festival
10:30 am – 4:30 pm, November 14
Grape Day Park, Escondido
http://www.escondidotamalefestival.org/

Indulge on tamales at this FREE and all-ages festival this Saturday in Escondido. This event will features dozens of food vendors, live entertainment, vendors, arts & crafts, and more. Everything comes at cost, so guests should bring plenty of cash for this day. A special VIP package costs $35 that includes exclusive gourmet tamales along with craft beer and wine pairings.

Barrel-Aged Speedway Stout & Hawaiian Speedway Stout Release Party
11:00 am – 10:00 pm, November 14
AleSmith Brewing, San Diego
http://alesmith.com/

Come taste one of San Diego’s most coveted brews this Saturday at the AleSmith tasting room in San Diego. They will also have a handful of other variations of this brew on tap for you to try.

2nd Annual San Diego Cheese & Beer Festival
12:00 pm – 5:00 pm, November 14
Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens, Liberty Station, San Diego
http://www.sdcheesefest.org/

Indulge in gourmet cheeses and craft beers this Saturday afternoon in Liberty Station in San Diego. General admission costs $45 and starts at 1pm, while VIP admission costs $75, starts at 12pm, and includes VIP seating. All attendees receive 12 cheese and beer pairings. No one under 21 may attend.

Walker’s Wild Ride
12:00 pm – 6:00 pm, November 14
Orange & Santa Ana
http://www.firestonebeer.com/events/walkers-wild-ride.php

Firestone Walker will tap four very rare sour beers at four different locations in Orange County this Saturday. Visit their website for a schedule of their stops; however, which beer they tap at each location remains a secret!

1st Annual Cali Uncorked Festival
12:00 pm – 7:00 pm, November 14
Oak Canyon Park, Silverado
http://www.uncorkedfest.com/

The organizers behind Orange County Brew Ha Ha bring to you this new festival unlike anything ever before: Cali Uncorked. This festival combines craft beer, wine, food, music, and comedy all in one location. With over a hundred different beers and wines to sip on, you will not run out of different things to try here. General admission costs $50 and starts at 1pm, while early admission costs $65 and starts at 12pm. All guests receive unlimited beer and wine tasters while supplies last. Food comes at cost, so guests should bring extra cash for food here. No one under 21 may attend.

Skyland Ale Works 1st Year Anniversary
12:00 pm – 9:00 pm, November 14
Skyland Ale Works, Corona
http://www.skylandaleworks.com/

This little microbrewery in Corona has survived a year in the craft beer industry, and they will celebrate at their tasting room in Corona this Saturday. They will have their anniversary ale on tap, plus a few variations of the anniversary ale as well. Prepay for the commemorative anniversary glass to receive a beer pour with the glass; otherwise, guests can buy the anniversary glass for $6.

Helm’s Brewing 3-Year Anniversary
12:00 pm – 9:00 pm, November 14
Helm’s Brewing, Kearny Mesa, San Diego
http://www.helmsbrewingco.com/

Helm’s Brewing turns three 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. This celebration has no ticket or cover charge – simply show up, and pay for cold ones as you go.

Balboa Craft Beer Festival
1:00 pm – 5:00 pm, November 14
Balboa Village, Newport Beach
http://www.balboabeerfest.com/

Enjoy beach weather and craft beer this Saturday afternoon near Balboa Island. General admission costs $55, and includes unlimited beer AND food. No one under 21 may attend.

Root Beer Floats with Stateside Crafts
2:00 pm – 5:00 pm, November 14
Long Beach Creamery, Long Beach
http://longbeachcreamery.com/
http://www.facebook.com/events/985623561502786/

Stop by Long Beach Creamery in Bixby Knolls this Saturday afternoon for delicious refreshing root beer floats for just $6 each.

La Quinta Brewing’s 2nd Anniversary Party
2:00 pm – 9:00 pm, November 14
La Quinta Brewing, Palm Desert
http://www.laquintabrewing.com/

La Quinta Brewing turns two 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 day. This event has no ticket or cover charge – simply show up, and enjoy good times.

Outpost Festival
2:00 pm – 11:00 pm, November 14
East End, Downtown Santa Ana
http://outpostfest.com/

A music, art, food, and multicultural event comes to Downtown Santa Ana this Saturday. General admission costs $40, while VIP admission costs $80 and includes access to a VIP tent.

Orange Coast Magazine’s Annual Wine Affair
3:00 pm – 5:00 pm, November 14
Sub-Zero and Wolf Showroom, Costa Mesa
http://www.orangecoast.com/wineaffair/

Sample many wines from some of the top wineries on the west coast this Saturday Costa Mesa. In addition to all the wine, local restaurants will also sample hors d’oeuvre to go with the wines. Admission costs $75 presale or $99 at the door. Use promo code yelpwine to receive admission for $55. No one under 21 may attend.

Art Crawl Experience
6:00 pm – 10:00 pm, November 14
Center Street Promenade, Downtown Anaheim
http://www.downtownanaheim.com/artcrawlexperience

Downtown Anahiem will see a variety of activities and exhibits this Saturday night. Visitors can expect to find tons of art exhibits, live music, food, food trucks, drinks, yoga, dance, and more. Visitors may park for free in the parking structure located at S Clementine Street and W Oak Street.

Bang Boom Bash
6:00 pm – 12:00 am, November 14
Mid City Arthouse, Los Angeles
http://bangboombash.com/

Music, burlesque, and booze all collide in one event this Saturday night in Los Angeles. General admission to this raunchy show costs $12, while VIP admission costs $18 and includes a special cup and drink ticket. No one under 21 may attend.

All Female Art Show
8:00 pm – 1:00 am, November 14
Public Beer & Wine Shop, Long Beach
http://www.publicbeerwineshop.com/
http://www.facebook.com/events/938676562894052/

Five local artists will showcase their art work in Downtown Long Beach this Saturday night, in addition to special beers on tap for breast cancer awareness. This event has no cover charge. No one under 21 may enter.

2nd Annual Mosaic Craft Fair
10:00 am – 4:00 pm, November 15
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.

Patchwork Indie Arts & Crafts Festival
11:00 am – 5:00 pm, November 15
Marine Stadium, Long Beach
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.

Wild Goose Tavern’s 3rd Anniversary Party
3:00 pm – 9:00 pm, November 15
Wild Goose Tavern, Costa Mesa
http://www.goosebar.com/

Wild Goose Tavern turns three years old this weekend, and to celebrate, they will have a party at their place in Costa Mesa this Sunday. During the first hour, guests will receive complimentary appetizers. Throughout the night, they will have a silent auction, raffles, merchandise for sale, and more. A portion of food sales will go towards a charity too. This event has no cover charge – simply show up and have a good time.

Top 5 Southern California New Breweries of 2014

Dozens of microbreweries have opened their doors to the public in Southern California in 2014. The rising popularity of craft beer lends well to the establishment of all of these new breweries, and the rate of growth exceeds many people’s expectations. While breweries pop up all over the place, craft beer enthusiasts sometimes have a difficult time keeping track of them all, especially for those out-of-town. Although I have visited more brewery grand openings than I can count on my hands, these five remain a staple in my routine brewery visits. Note that this list does not contain any breweries from San Diego County, which has seen the greatest expansion of breweries in 2014 than the rest of the west coast. However, Wet ‘N Reckless Brewing holds a dear place in my heart, and the loss of them in 2014 really made it difficult for me to support anyone else but them in their time of need. That said, I sincerely hope that you as the reader of this post lend any support you have for Wet ‘N Reckless, as all craft beer fans wish for them to return to the scene sooner than later.

5. The Dudes’ Brewing Company

After MUCH anticipation from craft beer fans throughout Southern California, Dudes’ Brewing in Torrance finally opened their doors to the public in 2014. For over a year prior, Dudes’ Brewing has graced Southern California with their presence at multiple beer festivals, such as Bock Fest or Drink Good Beer Fest. Most, if not all, people who have encountered Dudes’ Brewing will recall the Grandma’s Pecan and/or the Kölschtal Eddy beers, as these two essentially represent the flagship beers of Dudes’ Brewing. With the opening of their doors this past weekend, Dudes’ Brewing marks yet another entry into the South Bay craft beer scene.

4. MacLeod Ale Brewing Co.

Craft beer has a huge market in Southern California that continually expands annually. MacLeod Ale Brewing Co. opened their doors to the public in 2014 with a grand opening complete with food trucks, bagpipe players, and of course, beer. Now you may think to yourself, “Oh great, another brewery.” Let me tell you that this brewery with a Scottish background sets themselves apart from the others by focusing on cask ales. Most breweries have their own niche with what they brew, and MacLeod chose cask beers. Out in the San Fernando Valley, breweries have not established themselves as part of the community, largely due to Anheuser Busch’s dominance in this territory. MacLeod hopes to break ground and start getting microbreweries out to this area.

3. Skyland Ale Works

Skyland Ale Works aims to bring a sense of community to the craft beer scene in Corona. Following the untimely closure of Main Street Brewery, Corona has lacked a brewery of its own, and if not for the various supermarkets and restaurants carrying craft beer, would turn Corona into just that one city that people would pass through between Orange County and the Inland Empire. Located just off the 91 Freeway in West Corona, Skyland Ale Works makes full use of their small working space. Stepping into the tasting room, you immediately get the feeling of a Mom & Pop joint, as it does not feel like money bleeds out of the walls here, unlike certain other breweries. Craft beer enthusiasts ought to seek out Skyland Ale and support them to promote the growth of craft beer.

2. Barley Forge Brewing Co.

Tucked away behind The Camp in Costa Mesa in the triangle created by the 405, 55, and 73 freeways, Barley Forge had already forged a legacy of their own among Orange County’s craft beer enthusiasts. Although I had not personally heard of Barley Forge up until their grand opening, the name easily spread out through the veins of Orange County and as far down as San Diego County during the Brewers Guild Fest. One look at their tasting room, and one will understand how this brewery has generated so much buzz prior to their grand opening. In stark contrast to another brewery that also had their grand opening that same day, a waltz into the Barley Forge tasting room will have you feeling like you just walked into a millionaire’s playground. I mean, just how much money went into building this masterpiece? I can safely say that the folks behind Barley Forge proved their point that they intend to stay in this industry for a very long time.

1. Beach City Brewery

Prior to 2014, Huntington Beach never truly had a standalone microbrewery. In downtown, they may have Huntington Beach Beer Company, but they qualify more as a brewpub, and they do not widely distribute their beers. Huntington Beach also has Brewbakers, but they function more as a homebrew store than an actual brewery. In 2014, Huntington Beach welcomed their first actual microbrewery with Beach City Brewery, the latest addition to the Orange County craft beer family. Located in an industrial block off the intersection of Beach Blvd and Slater Ave, this microbrewery has already greeted many craft beer fans with their more approachable brews (as opposed to strong brews) at recent beer festivals. At long last, craft beer fans can finally check out this brewery’s tasting room and taste the beers at any time during business hours. They may appear small, but Beach City Brewery has already put in tons of work with their production, and they proudly distribute canned beers as the only Orange County brewery to can their beers. Expect great things from Beach City Brewery in the years to come.

Beer Up – Skyland Ale Works Brings A Much-Needed Craft Beer Presence To Corona

In the craft beer industry, the location of a microbrewery’s facilities can make or break the business. For the most part, a microbrewery will have a tasting room in the same building as the production facility. Very few breweries have a tasting room separate from the actual brewery; for example, Ohana Brewing has its brewery near Downtown Los Angeles, while its tasting room resides in Alhambra. Microbreweries essentially require a building designed for industrial purposes, such as a warehouse. Since industrial buildings tend to exist in large clusters near each other, this explains the phenomenon that many microbreweries tend to exist in clusters, such as many of the microbreweries in the South Bay. While groups of breweries can exist near each other like this, some areas just do not have any real breweries at all. If you draw a quadrilateral from Downtown Los Angeles to the middle of the San Gabriel Valley to Anaheim to the South Bay, one will notice a stark lack of microbreweries (sans Downey Brewing, which hardly counts since they do not bottle nor distribute their products). Another city used to have virtually no microbreweries present, but as of this past weekend, that city returns to the craft beer scene.

Skyland Ale Works aims to bring a sense of community to the craft beer scene in Corona. Following the untimely closure of Main Street Brewery, Corona has lacked a brewery of its own, and if not for the various supermarkets and restaurants carrying craft beer, would turn Corona into just that one city that people would pass through between Orange County and the Inland Empire. Located just off the 91 Freeway in West Corona, Skyland Ale Works makes full use of their small working space. Stepping into the tasting room, you immediately get the feeling of a Mom & Pop joint, as it does not feel like money bleeds out of the walls here, unlike certain other breweries. As of their grand opening this past Saturday, Skyland Ale had seven beers on tap, plus in-house brewed root beer (vanilla ice cream optional). Their seven beers, listed as Name, ABV, IBU:

• IPA, 7.0, 85
• Agave Wheat w/ Honeydew, 7.5, 15
• Irish Amber, 6.2, 25
• Belgian Blonde, 6.4, 30
• Chocolate Porter, 6.8, 20
• Chocolate Porter w/ Chipotlé, 6.8, 20
• IPA w/ Green Chiles, 7.0, 85

They planned to have the regular Agave Wheat without honeydew available, but the batch did not pass the quality test.

Craft beer enthusiasts ought to seek out Skyland Ale and support them to promote the growth of craft beer. Interested visitors can find them at 109 N Maple St Ste C in Corona, on the corner of Maple St and Pomona Rd. Like them on Facebook and follow them on Twitter for future updates going on at Skyland Ale. As always, stay on the lookout for new craft beers in your local area!