Agaperabba Entertainment

Safe Firework(Fourth) Celebrations in Los Angeles Areas

2011-06-27T20:38:00.000-07:00

We will be at The American Legion in the City of Monterey Park....

http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=229495260395853

Join us in celebrating our Independence Day!

American Legion will be open for BBQ hot dogs and hamburgers, a cold beer and great seats in viewing the City of Monterey Park's fireworks display!

Want to park in our lot? Arrive early and pay $5.00

The Auxiliary will also be providing face painting (by Agaperabba), candied apples, popcorn, cotton candy and patriotic goodies such as hats, pins, flags and more!

“America, we love you” is the theme for this year’s spectacular Independence Day Celebration, to be held from 3 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. at Barnes Park, (350 S. McPherrin Avenue). The day will feature entertainment, food, and fun for the entire family. Patriotic activities include children's crafts, music by the Monterey Park Concert Band, the announcement of the July 4th Poster Contest winners, and the introduction of new citizens and Military families. New U.S. citizens and Military families are encouraged to contact the Special Events Manager or at (626) 307-1388 to be included in the program. The day will conclude with a stirring Firework Show at 9:00 p.m.

Additional parking has been reserved at Repetto School (650 S. Grandridge Ave) and St. Stephens Church (320 W. Garvey Avenue) for the event.

Approximate schedule for 2011 at the park

3:00 PM BBQ and Fun at the Legion
Food Booths Open, Crafts & Games begin at the Park
4:00 PM Band
5:15 PM Poster Contest Winners, New Citizens, Military Families, and Dignitaries
6:30 PM Band (Classic Rock and R&B hits)
8:00 PM Golden Stars Sky Diving Team Demonstration
8:15 PM Band
9:00 PM Firework Spectacular - Please note - Ramona Avenue will be closed around 7:30 p.m. until the conclusion of the firework show.

Please stop by and get face painted, eat a burger, talk with a Vet or have a soda or adult beverage before watching the firework display!

If you can't make it, here are a few other options:

July 3

Avalon
Isthmus Cove Barge
9:00 p.m.

Cudahy
Cudahy Park
5220 Santa Ana St. (Field that backs up to the Riverbed)
9:00 p.m.

La Mirada
La Mirada High School (Soccer Field)
13520 Adelfa Ave.
9:00 p.m.

La Puente Park
501 N. Glendora Ave.
9:00 p.m.

Norwalk
Cerritos College
12350 Imperial Highway (Parking Lot)
9:00 p.m.

South El Monte
South El Monte High School
1001 N. Durfee Ave.
9:00 p.m.

July 4

Alhambra
Almansor Park
800 S. Almansor St.
Fireworks begin at 9 p.m.
See the show from anywhere in the park. Limited parking, so arrive early.
Bring your own picnic or purchase food from various Youth Group Food Vendors. http://www.cityofalhambra.org/government/Fireworks.html

Artesia
Artesia Community Park
12000 block of South Street / Elaine
Admission is free
9:00 p.m.

Baldwin Park
Sierra Vista High School
3600 Frazier Ave. (Field behind bleachers)
9:00 p.m.

Burbank
Starlight Bowl
1249 Lockheed View Drive
Celebrate America and our heritage at this fun and festive Independence Day event for the entire family. Join the Starlight Bowl and The United States Air Force for an evening of great entertainment filled with surprises. See a flyover, the induction of new enlistees, United States Air Force Veteran Daniel Rutherford singing the National Anthem, Surfin’ USA, The Burbank Philharmonic Orchestra and of course the best fireworks show in Los Angeles.
Gates open at 5:30 p.m.
Entertainment from 6:30 - 9:00 p.m.
Fireworks - 9:00 p.m http://www.starlightbowl.com/july4.html

Calabasas
Calabasas High School
22855 W. Mulholland Hwy.
9:00 p.m.

Castaic Lake
Castaic Lake Recreation Area (Lower Lake)
32132 Castaic Lake
9:00 p.m.

Cerritos
Cerritos High School
12500 E. 183rd Street
9:00 p.m.

Claremont
Pomona College (Hammer Throw Field)
6th Street / N. Mills
9:00 p.m.

Commerce
Rosewood Park (Parking lot of Youth Center)
2535 Commerce Way
9:00 p.m.

Culver City 4401 Elenda Street (Culver City High School)
9:00 p.m.
invite you to attend our annual Fourth of July fireworks show at Culver City High School. Gates open at 5PM, entertainment begins at 6:30PM, and the fireworks start at 9PM. and the The
if you'd like to see a map of the vicinity. Parking is available in nearby lots for $5 per car. Enter those lots off of Braddock Dr. at Huron Ave., two blocks east of Sepulveda Blvd.Culver City High School is located at 4401 Elenda Street.
For 55 years the Exchange Club of Culver City has been dedicated to bettering the lives of our community's children with a special focus on the prevention of child abuse. The suggested donation of $2 per person (children under 5 are free) will help us continue those efforts.
If you're hungry you'll be able to purchase hotdogs, soda, and Kettle Corn. You can also get tickets for the Exchange Club's raffle, which features grand prizes of an LCD flat screen tv and $100 gift certificates good at Westfield Fox Hills Mall! There will be great live music, too.
Please note that you are not allowed to bring alcohol or fireworks of any kind onto the school grounds.
http://culvercityfireworksshow.com/

Diamond Bar
Diamond Bar High School - Baseball Field
21400 E. Pathfinder Rd. (Pathfinder & Brea Canyon)
9:00 p.m.

Gardena
Rowley Park (Baseball Field)
13220 S. Van Ness Ave.
9:00 p.m.

Hansen Dam
11770 Foothill Blvd.
Lake View Terrace
4th of July Celebration at Hansen Dam is in its 17th year and is a free fun- filled family Cultural Affair which includes Gourmet Food Trucks, Music, Raffles & Prizes, Free Water Slide Kid Zone and other entertainment, which culminates with one of the most dramatic fireworks displays in the area.
Visit the kids zone sponsored by Shrek The Musical coming to the Pantages Theatre July 12-31. Get to the Hansem Dam July 4th, 2011 between 12-1PM to see Shrek perform live on the main stage!
$10.00 (Parking lot fills fast, please arrive early to secure a good spot)
Monday, July 4th 11:00 pm http://www.hansen4th.com/home/index.php

Hollywood
Hollywood Bowl
2301 North Highland Ave.
July 4th Fireworks Spectacular with special guests Daryl Hall & John Oates
Saturday, July 2, 2011, 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, July 3, 2011, 7:30 p.m.
Monday, July 4, 2011, 7:30 p.m.
323.850.2000 http://www.hollywoodbowl.com/tickets/performance-detail.cfm?id=4229

Huntington Beach Main St. from Pacific Coast Highway to Ellis
July 4, 2011 4th of July Parade - The biggest parade west of the Mississippi for Independence Day includes an entire day of fun. The parade begins on Pacific Coast Highway at Main Street at 10 a.m. and travels up Main Street to Gothard Street, usually lasting about 2.5 hours. Time: 10 a.m. Location: Main Street from Pacific Coast Highway to Ellis.
FIREWORKS AT THE BEACH
PANCAKE BREAKFAST
SURF CITY RUN & VENDOR EXPO
VENDOR EXPO
Those Guys, band - at Perqs Nite Club. Time: 7 p.m. Location: 117 Main St. Huntington Beach, CA. Phone: (714) 960-9996.
http://www.huntingtonbeachevents.com/calendar.html#4th_of_July_Information

Huntington Park
Salt Lake Park (Northwest Soccer Field)
3401 E. Florence Blvd.
9:00 p.m.

La Crescenta
Crescenta Valley High School
2900 Community Ave.
Entrance is via La Crescenta Elementary
Tickets are $5 each; children under 2 get in for free.
9:00 p.m. http://www.cvfireworks.com/

La Habra
La Habra High School (Baseball Field)
801 Highlander
9:00 p.m.

Lancaster
Antelope Valley Fairgrounds
2551 West Ave H http://www.avfair.com/

Lancaster
Lancaster Municipal Stadium
2400 W. Avenue I
Lancaster
6:55 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.

Long Beach
The Queen Mary
1126 Queen's Highway
Join us for a day of fun in the sun and an unforgettable 4th of July celebration. The day’s festivities include entertainment throughout the day:
• Strolling performers, Balloon Artists, Face Painters and Uncle Sam!
• On the main stage you can groove to the tunes of Flattop Tom & His Jump Cats, an energetic and dynamic band playing blues and swing (12:00 p.m. & 4:00 p.m.)
• GRAMMY Nominated, Lisa Haley and the Zydekats, one of the most joyful Americana/Cajun/Zydeco acts on tour today (4:30 p.m. & 8:30 p.m.)
• Dance the night away on the Verandah Deck located on the stern of the ship with a DJ Craig playing your favorite dance mixes from Classic Rock and Roll and Disco to the hottest jams of today (7:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.)
• Fireworks at 9:00 p.m.
http://www.queenmary.com/July-Fourth.aspx

Lynwood
Lynwood City Park
Baseball Field
11301 Bullis Rd.
9:00 p.m.

Malibu (Private)
Barge off the Coast
80 Malibu Colony Road
9:00 p.m.

Malibu (Private)
Barge off the Coast
21528 Pacific Coast Highway
9:00 p.m.

Malibu (Private)
Barge off the Coast
27910 Pacific Coast Highway
9:00 p.m.

Malibu (Private)
Barge off the Coast
22338 Pacific Coast Highway
9:00 p.m.

Pacific Palisades
Palisades Charter High School
15777 Bowdoin Street
July 4th
Entertainment 6:30 p.m.
Fireworks 9:00 p.m. http://palisadesparade.org/Fireworks.php

Pasadena
Rose Bowl
"Americafest 2011"
Family Fun Festival & Food Court on Area H
6:00 pm
7:00 pm
9:05 pm
Active Military with ID FREE
http://www.rosebowlstadium.com/RoseBowl_Americafest.php

Pico Rivera
Meller Elementary School (West grass area)
6016 Rosemead Blvd.
9:00 p.m.

Pomona
Pomona Fairplex
1101 W. McKinley
Pomona
It’s the 25th annual fireworks spectacular at Fairplex. Monster trucks and motoX extreme get the crowd cheering and the stupendous fireworks are the grand finale. The nighttime programming is a crowd pleaser and has played to a sold-out audience since its inception in 2002. It puts the boom in KABOOM!
The FMX riders delivering the colossal speed, moves, jumps and spins are the amazing Jimmy Fitzpatrick, Jeff Griffin, Julian Dusseau and Nick Dunn. And, then the dusty big boys appear led by Bounty Hunter, Iron Outlaw, Time Fly's, Fired Up and Obsession. Drivers navigate these behemoths weighing between 9-11 thousand pounds perched on 66 inch tires kicking up the dust and excitement levels exponentially.
*Please note that all riders and drivers are subject to change without notice.
Monster Truck and Big Air Free style Motocross 8 p.m.
Fireworks Spectacular 9:20 p.m. (Gates open at 5 p.m.)
Tickets are available online and at the kiosk at the Fairplex Credentials Office weekdays from 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. beginning Monday, May 9 –July 4 (or until sold out).Reserved Box Seats $19.50
Trackside Bleachers $17.50
General Seating $15
Buffet at Top of the Park $45
Free, ages 2 and younger
http://www.fairplex.com/fp/eventscalendar/kaboom.asp

Porter Ranch
Porter Ranch
Welcome to the 13th Annual 4th of July Spectacular presented by Shepherd of the Hills Church and Shapell Homes; one the largest 4th of July shows in all of Southern California. This event features an aerial fireworks presentation, inflatable "moon bounces" for the kids and a wide variety of local food vendors. In addition, we will have a Civil Air Patrol Cadets color guard presentation honoring military service men and women.
When: July 4, Gates open at 4:30
Cost: Free
Parking: Free http://www.theshepherd.org/4th

Redondo Beach
Seaside Lagoon
200 Portofino Way, Redondo Beach
Gates open at 2:00, Fireworks at 9:00 p.m.
Kids 4th Annual Freedom Parade at 7:00, Live Entertainment until 10:00 p.m. http://www.redondofireworks.com/

Rosemead
Rosemead Park
9200 Mission Avenue
9:00 p.m.

South Gate
South Gate Park
Corner of Pinehurst and Tweedy
9:00 p.m.

Sunland-Tujunga
Verdugo Hills High School
10625 Plainview Ave.
4:00 to 10:00 p.m. http://stnc.org/

Torrance
Barge off Coast of Torrance Beach
Palos Verdes and Via Rivera.
9:00 p.m.

Whittier (Private)
Friendly Hills Country Club
8500 Villa Verde Drive / Mar Vista
9:00 p.m.

Woodland Hills
Warner Park
5800 Topanga Canyon Blvd.
Entertainment starts at 6 p.m.
Fireworks at 9 p.m. http://valleycultural.org/dennis-p-zines-july-4th-extravaganza-july-4/

Summer

2011-06-22T04:06:00.000-07:00

Welcome to summer! We hope your outdoor parties are a huge success with water games, outdoor adventures and great family fun! More ideas to come but for your specific party check out our website www.agaperabba.com and call us for next party!

Happy New Year 1.1.11

2011-01-01T18:41:00.001-08:00

It's a brand new year.

A brand new chance to start fresh in choices, chances and Christ.

Yes, I know this is my party planning blog, but Christ is part of every party that I plan or entertain at, in my actions (God willing) and my motivation. He gives me the courage to enter into a strangers home and create a connection with this family in participating in their very important and special events. I adore my job. It's giving me life long friends as well as many, many clients that I would do just about anything for.

So, thank you all and hopefully we will start our 11th year of business with a bang!

1.1.11 11th Anniversary!

Fun Christmas Craft for Kids

2010-12-15T23:23:00.000-08:00

Christmas Crafts for Kids - Reindeer Craft Treat Holder

A Reindeer craft that kids can make and give as a gift.
These whimsical little reindeer can serve as place card holders
for a holiday table, party favors, or give a large reindeer as a gift,
filled with the recipients favorite candy!

They are an easy and inexpensive craft for classrooms or scout troops.

You'll Need:
Scissors
Craft glue, glue stick or glue dots
Terracotta clay pots; 2"-5"
Plastic eyes
Red pom-poms (glitter pom-poms are a fun addition!)
Three shades of brown craft foam, cardstock paper or construction paper;
we combined all three to make our reindeer family.

parts pictured for the large reindeer
2 antlers
2 large ears
2 small ears
2 eyes
one red nose

How to Make It:
First, with one shade of brown, cut the antlers to match the size of
your pot. If you are making the larger reindeer, use a child's handprint as pattern. Then, cut the ears with the other brown. We used a lighter shade of brown to add yet another layer to the ears but that's not necessary.

Attach they ears to the back of the pot. Then add the antlers.

Glue the eyes and nose the front. Fill the pot with candy, nuts or other goodies. It's that simple!

90th Birthday Roaring 20's Style

2010-11-30T19:50:00.000-08:00

I'm excited to be helping plan my Grandmother's 90th birthday party in January!

The theme has been set: Roaring 20's !!

I'm exicited to share with all my readers the process and the final day, so stay tuned.

Twitter Party Tips of the Day - November 2010

2010-11-30T19:41:00.000-08:00

Party tip of the day: November 2010

Party tip of the day: Keep the party manageable, try to keep a 5 kids to 1 adult ratio unless of course u hire professionals like Agaperabba!

Party tip of the day: Now is a great time to start planning ur Christmas open house! A fantastic way to enjoy company throughout the day!

Party tip of the day: Jumpers are a great add to a party but bring your child flip flops so they won't b running around on the cold floor in socks

We offer Party planning and event entertainment for all occasions! Call to book your birthday or Christmas party today! www.agaperabba.com

Party tip of the day: Flowers can be a beautiful add-on to your event but think thru the size of centerpiece, table length etc. before u buy!

Party tip of the day: 1 of 25 kids have food allergies, don't forget to talk with the parents before you plan a meal full of nuts, eggs & milk!

Party tip of the day: Please,Please cover your rental tables! Go to the 99 cent store,buy disposables,it will bring color & safety to the event!

Party tip of the day: Always make a few extra goodie bags just in case you have a sibling or extra guest! Don't use them, donate to a shelter

Party tip of the day: Order your birthday supplies earlier, if ordering them online that way you don't any added stress to your day :)

Addition to today's party tip: Entertainers can only entertain so many kids at one time, so please don't expect 40 kids to be painted in 1 hr.

Party tip of the day: PLEASE DON'T tell your entertainers 20 kids guests and actually have 40 show up! Most work on a per kid & hourly basis

Party tip of the day: With Thanksgiving approaching don't forget to include the kids in the cooking, prep and the event all together!

Party tip of the day: Don't keep up with the Joneses! Your 2 year old will not remember that you spent $1000 on a party! Spend wisely!

Party tip of the day: think outside of the box when choosing invitations! Odd is different and can be awesome!

Veteran's Day Freebies

2010-11-09T12:03:00.001-08:00

In honor of our Veterans, several companies offer discounts and freebies!

2010 Veteran’s Day Free Meals and Discounts

2010 Free Veterans Day Meals

Applebees – free meal, Thursday, Nov. 11: Military veterans and active-duty Service Members will be able to eat free at any Applebee’s across the U.S. on Veteran’s Day, Thursday, Nov. 11, 2010. There will be 7 entrées to choose from. Guests will be asked to show one or more of the following as proof of service: U.S. Uniform Services ID Card (active/reserve/retired), Current Leave and Earnings Statement (LES), Photograph in uniform, Wearing uniform, Veterans Organization Card (e.g., American Legion and VFW), or DD214. For more information and participating locations visit: http://www.applebees.com/vetsDay/default.aspx.

McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood Restaurants – free lunch or dinner, Sunday Nov 7: McCormick & Schmick’s is celebrating their 12th annual Veteran’s Appreciation Event on Sunday, November 7. Veterans will be able to choose a complimentary lunch or dinner entrée on Sunday, November 7. Some of the special offerings include Cashew-Crusted Tilapia, Grilled Atlantic Salmon, Seafood Fettuccini Alfredo and Cedar-Planked Salmon. Eligible veterans include anyone who served in the active military, naval, or air service, and who was discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable. Veterans must provide proof of military service in the form of an active, retired, or reserve ID card, VA Card, VFW Card, American Legion Card, discharge papers, DD214 or other Veterans ID. For more information visit: M&S Veterans Appreciation Day.

Golden Corral – free meal, Monday Nov. 15: The 9th annual Golden Corral Military Appreciation dinner will be held on Monday, November 15, 2010 from 5 pm to 9 pm in all Golden Corral Restaurants nationwide. The free “thank you” dinner is available to any person who has ever served in the United States Military. If you are a veteran, retired, currently serving, in the National Guard or Reserves, you are invited to participate in Golden Corral’s Military Appreciation Monday dinner. For more information visit http://www.goldencorral.com/military/.
Special thanks to Golden Corral: To date, Golden Corral restaurants have provided over 2.2 million free meals and contributed over $3.3 million to the Disabled American Veterans organization.

Chili’s – free meal, Thursday, Nov. 11. Chili’s is offering all military veterans past and present their choice of one of 6 meals. This offer is available during business hours on November 11, 2010 at participating Chili’s in the U.S. only. Dine-in from limited menu only; beverages and gratuity not included. Veterans and active duty military simply show proof of military service. See flier for more information.

Hooters – free Meal, Thursday, Nov. 11. Hooter’s is serving up a free meal to military veterans all day on Veterans Day. Offer good for all veterans and active duty military personnel. Choose one of the new specialty items on the Hooter’s menu. Offer valid at participating Hooters only; open to all active duty and military veterans with valid military ID orproof of military service. Drink purchase required. For more information, visit, www.HootersVeteransDay.com.

Outback Steakhouse – free Bloomin’ Onion and Beverage, Thursday, Nov. 11. Outback Steakhouse is honoring America’s military veterans by offering active duty military and veterans a free Bloomin’ Onion and beverage of choice (one non-alcoholic drink). This offer is available to the following Military Personnel who have one of the following forms of identifications on November 11, 2010: U.S Uniform Services Identification Card, U.S Uniform Services Retired Identification Card, Current Leave and Earnings Statement (LES), DD form 214 Veterans Organization Card (i.e., American Legion and VFW), Photograph in Uniform, Wearing Uniform. For more information, visit, http://www.outback.com/pressroom/pr_101018.aspx.

Uno Chicago Grill, Thursday, Nov. 11. Uno’s is offering a free entree or individual pizza with a purchase of an entree or pizza of equal or greater value. Offer good for all military for veterans and active duty military. ID or proof of service required: Show up in uniform (if your service permits), provide military ID, show a picture of yourself in uniform, or have other ID showing proof of service. More info here.

America’s Incredible Pizza Company, Thursday, Nov. 11. Two Missouri locations are offering thanks to our nation’s veterans by offering a free meal from 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm on Veterans Day, Thursday, November 11, 2010. This free dinner is a way of saying thank you and includes an unlimited buffet and drink at either location in Saint Louis or Saint Peters, Missouri. Note: America’s Incredible Pizza Company operates franchises, so this offer may only be limited to the locations listed.

Texas Roadhousefree meal, Thursday, Nov. 11. Offer varies by location; our local Texas Roadhouse is offering a free meal from opening until 4pm. Other locations may vary in offer, hours, or availability. Call ahead to your local restaurant for more information.

Krispy Kreme – Free doughnut. Available only at participating Krispy Kreme stores. Offer available to all active-duty, retirees & veterans on Thursday November 11th. Be sure to call ahead to verify your local Krispy Kreme is participating.

T.G.I. Friday’s – Buy one get one free Nov 11-14. At participating locations for anyone with an old or current military ID. November 11-14. Hat tip to Military Wives Saving.

Subway – Free Six Inch Sub. Many subway locations offer a free six inch sub to military veterans on Veteran’s Day. However, Subway restaurants are franchises, so this offer may only be available in select locations. Please contact your local Subway for more information regarding Veteran’s day specials.

Boston’s Gourmet Pizza – free individual pizza. All military veterans and active duty military personnel can enjoy an FREE individual one topping pizza this Veteran’s Day 5-7 PM! There are two Boston’s Gourmet Pizza & Sports Bar locations in the Denver area. The Highlands Ranch location is just off of C-470 and Broadway, at 53 W. Centennial Blvd. The newly re-opened Parker location is just off of C-470 and Parker Road at 19340 E Cottonwood Dr.

Barmuda – free meal. Barmuda is offering a free meal to all active duty members and veteran’s in all restaurants. More information.

Home Depot and Lowes Coupon Updates
Update: Home Depot and Lowes 10% Military Discount Available Everyday.

Home Depot: The Home Depot(R) is offering all active duty personnel, reservists, retired military, veterans and their families a 10 percent discount off their purchases in honor of Veteran’s Day. The offer is valid on purchases of up to $2,000 for a maximum of $200 and is available at The Home Depot stores, The Home Depot Design Center locations, Yardbirds and EXPO Design Center(R) locations. The 10% discount is available everyday for active duty and retirees, but not veterans. Home Depot makes this offer available to all veterans on most military holidays.

Lowes: Lowe’s Companies, Inc. will offer all active, reserve, honorably discharged, retired military personnel and their immediate family members a 10 percent discount on in-store U.S. purchases made during the Veterans Day holiday. The discount is available Nov. 6 – Nov. 11. The discount is available on in-stock and special order purchases up to $5,000. To qualify, individuals must present a valid military ID or other proof of service. Excluded from the discount are sales via Lowes.com, previous sales, and purchases of services or gift cards. Like Home Depot, Lowes offers this discount daily to active duty military members, but not to veterans. However, they extend the offer to military veterans on military holidays.

Free Park Admission for Veterans Day

Colonial Williamsburg Free Admission. Colonial Williamsburg honors America’s Veterans with a procession down Duke of Gloucester Street, 4:30 p.m., beginning at the Capitol. The parade culminates in a public ceremony, with militia and cannon crew firing volleys in recognition of those who serve. Hear Colonial Williamsburg’s Fifes and Drums, and speakers from past and present. Active duty military, guard and reservists, retirees, veterans and their dependents enjoy free admission passes on the following dates: Nov. 6-11.

Knotts Berry Farm Military Tribute Days – Free Admission. Knott’s Berry Farm has an annual Military Tribute where they offer military members past and present by offering free park admission. This year the Military Tribute Days run from November 1 – 25 November (Thanksgiving Day). Veterans or current serving military personnel plus one guest get in FREE with proper ID presented at Knott’s turnstile (DD214, Veterans Administration Hospital ID or Active Military Service ID). Purchase up to six additional tickets for just $15 each. More info.

Fee Free Day at National Parks. To honor America’s service men and women, Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar today announced that areas managed by the department would not charge entrance fees on Thursday, November 11, 2010. Over 100 national Parks will be participating in this event. More information.

Free Admission Anheuser-Busch Parks for Military Members
Here's to the Heroes
Anheuser-Busch Parks. Anheuser-Busch Parks offers Active Duty Service Members free admission for them and up to 3 dependents to any of their parks once a year. Throughout 2010, members of the military and as many as three direct dependents may enter SeaWorld, Busch Gardens or Sesame Place parks with a single-day complimentary admission. The Here’s to the Heroes program is only available to Any active duty, activated or drilling reservist, or National Guardsman. For more information and to register, visit: http://www.herosalute.com/states/overview.html.

Eligible parks include:
Adventure Island
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay or Williamsburg
SeaWorld Orlando, San Diego, or San Antonio
Sesame Place
Water Country USA
Not valid at Discovery Cove and Aquatica. Christmas Town at Busch Gardens in Williamsburg, Va. is not included as part of this program.
Bed and Breakfast for Vets
In the second year of the program, B&Bs for Vets has organized over 800 participating Bed and Breakfasts and Inns across the US and Canada will be offering veterans a free night’s stay on November 10th, the night before Veterans Day. This offer is available to both active duty military members and veterans with ID, but space is limited. Each Inn and B&B has at least one room available for this promotion and reservations must be made directly through the participating Inns and B&Bs. For more information visit B&Bs for Vets.

Free Hugo® Canes for Veterans.
Sam’s Club® locations nationwide will distribute 36,000 Hugo® canes free of charge on November 10th, 11th and 12th, 2010 to U.S. military veterans in need of mobility assistance. Limited quantities available, while supplies last. Sam’s Club® Membership is not required, but proof of military service may be required. For more information, visit HugoSalutes.com.

More discounts:

Build-A-Bear Workshop stores. 20% discount from November 11 – 15th for active-duty military. Get $10 OFF orders $50 or more at Build-A-Bear Workshop® use coupon code 95309 at check out Click here!

Sport Clips – FREE haircut to active-duty military & veterans. Offer only available at select locations. Please call to verify local participation.
Dollar General. 10% discount on entire purchase on Veteran’s Day. Offer good for all active-duty military, retirees, veterans, Guard/Reserve, & immediate family members. More info.

Sleep Number Stores. Free travel pillow to all active duty military & retirees now through Nov. 14. Find your “sleep number” setting, and get a free pillow – easy!
Cabela’s. Cabela’s is giving their standard employee discount to all US military veterans, active duty military, Guard/Reserves, law enforcement, fire and EMS personnel on Nov. 11-12. Discount varies from 5% to 50%, depending on the item. (I received this information from an active duty military member who forwarded an e-mail that was distributed base wide, however, I have not been able to confirm this; please contact Cabela’s before assuming this offer is in place).

Jos. A. Bank Veteran’s Day coupons:
All Executive suits $177, 2nd $57 – Lowest prices this year for suits! You save $866 when you buy 2!
All Traveler and Signature Suits $377, 2nd $97
All Joseph & Signature Gold Suits $577, 2nd $197
ALL SPORTCOATS, BLAZERS AND DRESS PANTS 50% OFF
JOS A BANK VETERANS DAY SALE ORDERS $175+ SHIP FREE Valid: NOVEMBER 11, 2010.
Valid: November 11, 2010

End of October

2010-10-29T08:07:00.000-07:00

October is ending and that means the holiday sesaon is upon us!

Thanksgiving means family, birthdays and cooking! I'm going to try to spend November sending you all some yummy recipes, fun activities and some inspriation for those that are missing family members or don't have any at all.

Looking for something? Let me know and I'll be happy to provide it!

Don't forget that the holidays book up quickly so if you are interested in our services for your company, family or event, call and book today!

YIKES! Alternatives....

2010-10-25T09:00:00.001-07:00

It's hard to believe how fast time can pass and I don't post. No reason really, busy, lazy, sick, new activities, daily grind...you name it, you choose the reason.

So, that dreaded season of halloween is upon us :( . As I've stated before, we do not celebrate, but to each their own.

Just in case your looking for something safe and different to do with the kids, here are a few SoCal Harvest Festivals going on:

Faith Community Church
West Covina
The Best Festival
10/31/10
www.go2faith.com

Cornerstone
Anaheim Hills
Harvest Fest
10/31/10
www.mycornerstoneconnection.com

Knott Avenue Christian Church
Anaheim
Mega Night
10/29/10
http://www.kacc.com

Companerismo Cristiano Forsquare
Downey
Harvest Festival
10/31/10
www.companerismo.org

Sea Coast Grace
Cypress
Trunk or Treat
10/31/10
www.seacoastgrace.org/

First Baptist Church
Downey
Trunk or Treat
10/31/10
www.fbcdowney.com

Saddleback Church
Lake Forest
Blocktober
10/31/10
www.saddleback.com

Florence Avenue Four Square
Sante Fe Springs
Harvest Fest
10/31/10
http://www.fafc.org/

Calvary Chapel
Fullerton
Harvest Fest
10/31/10
www.calvaryfullerton.org/

Abundant Hope Christian Center
Downey
Harvest Hoedown
10/31/10
www.abundanthopechristiancenter.com

Trinity United Presbyterian
Santa Ana
Fall Festival
10/31/10
www.trinityconnection.com/

Faith Community Church of the Nazarene
Yorba Linda
Harvest Shindig
10/27/10
http://www.fcnaz.org/Faith_Community.html

Brea Olinda Friends Church
Brea
Fall Feast
10/31/10
http://brea-olindafriends.weebly.com/calendar.html

Yorba Linda Friends Church
Yorba Linda
Family Fun Fest
10/31/10
http://ylfc.org

Mission Viejo Christian Church
Mission Viejo
Harvest Festival
10/31/10
http://mvcchome.org/

Our Savior Lutheran Church
Arcadia
Harvest Fest
10/31/10
www.oslcarcadia.com

Hillside Community Church
Rowland Heights
Harvest Festival
10/31/10
www.churchofthenazarene.org

Calvary Chapel
Downey
Fear Not Fest
10/31/10
http://www.ccdowney.com/home/

St. Stephen's of the Valley Lutheran
Palmdale
Harvest Festival
10/31/10
http://www.ssov.org/

Taft Avenue Community Church
Orange
Family Fall Festival
10/31/10
http://www.taftavenue.org/

A Calvary Chapel BendiZion Ministry
Sylmar
Sylmar's Harvest Festival
10/31/10
www.bendizion.com

College Ave. Church of the Nazerene
Whittier
Trunk or Treat
10/31/10
http://www.cacnaz.org/

The Garden Church
Chatsworth
Carnival Fair
10/31/10
www.TheGarden.cc

Wilshire Avenue Community
Fullerton
Trunk of Treat
10/31/10
www.wilshireave.com

Compass Church
Laguna Niguel
Fall Feast
10/31/10
http://www.compasschurch.org/

Christian Mission Church
27812 Forbes Rd. Laguna Niguel
Harvest Festival
10/31/10
more info 949-212-1025

Calvary Chapel Chino ValleyTrunk or Treat 6:30pm
12205 Pipeline Ave
Chino, CA 91710
http://calvaryccv.org

Light The Night Halloween Alternative
Free candy, free train rides, carnival games for the preschoolers and elementary age kids and more!
Date: Sunday October 31 2010
Time: 5pm to 8pm
Venue: Calvary Chapel Bakersfield
Address: 6501 Schirra Court
City: Bakersfield State:CA Zip:93313
Phone: 661-397-6000
Website: www.westbrook.org

Out of Darkness
Music, food, games, and more.
Date: Sunday October 31 2010
Time: 3:30pm to 9pm
Venue: Calvary Pico Rivera
Address: 8110 Paramount Blvd.
City: Pico Rivera State:CA Zip:90660
Phone: 562-777-5134
Website: www.CalvaryPicoRivera.org

Fall Harvest Night 2010
An evening of food, Biblical-based games, and worship music.
Date: Sunday October 31 2010
Time: 5pm to 9pm
Venue: Calvary Chapel Monrovia
Address: 123 West Pomona Avenue
City: Monrovia State:CA Zip:91016
Phone: 626-359-5116
Website:

Harvest Night
Games, bounces houses, contests and prizes, food, music and more.
Date: Sunday October 31 2010
Time: 6pm to 9pm
Venue: Calvary Chapel Perris Valley
Address: 3060 Barrett Avenue
City: Perris State:CA Zip:92571
Phone: 951-943-5979
Website: www.CCperrisValley.com

The Country Bumpkin Family Fair
Petting zoo, bounce house, candy, face painting, arts and crafts, games and more.
Date: Sunday October 31 2010
Time: 4:30om to 7:30pm
Venue: Homeschool Campus OC
Address: 2987 Mesa Verde Drive
City: Costa Mesa State:CA Zip:92626
Phone: 714-549-0530
Website: www.HomeSchoolCampusOC.com

High Seas Adventure
Halloween Alternative event.
Date: Sunday October 31 2010
Time: 6pm to 9pm
Venue: Refuge
Address: 7800 Edinger Avenue
City: Huntington Beach State:CA Zip:
Phone: 714-891-9495
Website: www.RefugeFamily.com

Hallelujah Carnival
Free games, train rides, candy and much more!
Date: Sunday October 31 2010
Time: 6pm to 8pm
Venue: Oasis Community Church
Address: 23750 Alessandro Blvd.
City: Moreno Valley State:CA Zip:92553
Phone: 951-653-0737
Website: www.OasisChurchMV.com

Harvest Festival
Music, food, games, prizes and more.
Date: Sunday October 31 2010
Time: 5:30pm to 8:30pm
Venue: Christian Mission Church
Address: 27812 Forbes Road, Suite A

Sorry for any duplicates!

Enjoy and give God the glory in all that you do!
City: Laguna Niguel State:CA Zip:92677
Phone: 949-212-1025
Website: www.cmcnow.org

Party Tip of the Day - July

2010-08-06T00:03:00.000-07:00

Enjoy a few of our Party tips for the month of July...

Party tip of the day: need a fun, easy centerpiece? Get a vase, fill with colorful candy and tie a bow! Makes a great balloon weight too!

Party tip of the day: Keep your food warm if it will be left out longer then an hour! Nobody likes eating cold food that has turned!

Did you miss me? Party party party what a blast the last 5 day were!! Hope you're ready for your own killer event so call us! 626.692.4918

Party tip of the day: Keep the games simple & age appropriate. What's easy for adults might be hard for a child, make sure it's kid friendly!

Party tip of the day: Make your own favor boxes and decor just by printing the patterns! Need some help email me for the directions!

WELCOME to our new followers!! Were excited to almost hit 1000! We love sharing our party tips and hope to share them with the world!

Have you RT @Agaperabba Share our party tips, our party entertainment and more with your friends! Thanks!

Party tip of the day: if you ask your guests to dress in costume make sure you have a few extra get ups! You don't want anyone left out!

Party tip of the day: have fun by asking your guests to dress up per your theme! Get them involved!

Party tip of the day: Summer is here and so are the bugs! Make sure you cover your food and throw away trash far from you guests!

Party tip of the day: Having an over the hill party? Use cans of ensure as your balloon weights! Ur guests will laugh :D Happy Friday!

Party tip of the day: Join a team and celebrate with a World Cup party! Scrimmage, Drills and more! Need help? Just give me a call!

Party tip of the day: plan for finger foods or chips and dip while the main meal cooks or arrives...people need to munch :)

Summertime

2010-08-05T22:58:00.001-07:00

Hope this finds you all enjoying your summer! Southern California has been on the cool end but how can you complain?

Summer party season is also in full force and with that here are some fun ideas in the sun!

Indoor Summer Party Ideas

Here's how to make the best of an indoor summer party:

1. Make it a beach theme party.
2. Decorate your interiors based on beach themes and use fans, air conditioners, air coolers etc. to keep the room breezy.
3. Move away your chairs and sofas and get some boulders (look-alike cushions will do) and mats with beach towels draped over them.
4. Place a couple of beach umbrellas in the room if you can get hold of some.
5. Use a 'beach scene' wallpaper on a prominent wall.
6. If a projector can be arranged, use it to project a 'live' beach scene on a wall.
7. Keep the dress code for the party a beach theme'. That doesn't necessarily mean swimsuits - sailors and fish can also be included. Let your guests be creative!
8. An old surf board will also add to the look.
9. Serve seafood and lots of cool beverages.
10. As for you...get a special look - how about a mermaid dress with sequined seashells?

Outdoor Summer Party Ideas

A lawn, garden, a local park or even your backyard will be a lovely place to host your summer party outdoors.

1. Clean Up! Whichever spot you choose, be sure to clean it up thoroughly to avoid any hazards for your guests.
2. Make proper arrangements for ample light and mosquito repellents. Lanterns can be hung on tree trunks to present a lovely sight.
3. If the party is not on a very short notice, prepare in advance. Build a Garden Pond. It would be the 'coolest' thing to happen to your party!
4. A garden figure such as a birdbath or a small fountain will complete the picture.
5. You can set up a tent and make your party a 'Camping Party'. You can also have a 'Campfire'. If there are no open fires - some pieces of wood with red construction paper can work just as well... with a little imagination!
6. A game of scavenger hunt with clues to the prize hidden under small rocks, flower petals, tree trunks etc. will spice up the evening.
7. If you have a musical talent amongst your guests, be sure to arrange for a guitar or other such musical instrument or let that guest know beforehand to come prepared with it.
8. A gas barbecue will be perfect for the food, but if you don't have one - improvise with a charcoal grill or super sandwiches and salads.
9. Use paper plates and other disposable utensils. Place neatly painted garbage cans for trash. If your community recycles, make sure to have a separate place to toss empty cans.
10. If you have a swimming pool nearby, a 'Moonlight Swim' will be the perfect finale to your Summer Party... If there's no swimming pool have some scary stories ready to tell around the campfire and bring back memories of summer camp...before everyone goes home to bed!

Enjoy your summer!

Thank you

2010-07-08T10:41:00.000-07:00

Running a business is difficult but it makes it worthwhile when you get emails from past customers saying the kids still talk about the party and say "it was the best party ever"

I'm thankful for my returning customers and if your out there know that your business is appreciated!

Fourth of July Family Fun 2010

2010-06-30T15:01:00.000-07:00

American We Love You, Monterey Park

Come support your Veterans!! American Legion Post 397 will be open at 1:00 pm on July 4th serving food, drinks (alcoholic and non), play some pool, eat cotton candy, candied apples and get the kids (or you) face painted! 338 S. Ramona Avenue, Monterey Park 91754 *Please note all alcoholic beverages must be consumed on Legion property!Then join the fun at Barnes park across the street! “America, we love you” is the theme for this year’s spectacular Independence Day Celebration, to be held from 3 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. at Barnes Park, (350 S. McPherrin Avenue). The day will feature entertainment, food, and fun for the entire family. Patriotic activities include children's crafts, music by the Monterey Park Concert Band, the announcement of the July 4th Poster Contest winners, and the introduction of new citizens and Military families. New U.S. citizens and Military families are encouraged to contact the Special Events Manager or at 626) 307-1388 to be included in the program. The day will include a dramatic Skydiving Exhibition at 8 p.m. and conclude with a stirring Firework Show at 9:00 p.m. Additional parking has been reserved at Repetto School (650 S. Grandridge Ave) and St. Stephens Church (320 W. Garvey Avenue) for the event.

4th of July AmericaFest at the Rose Bowl

One of the largest fireworks displays in Southern California with music and food vendors in the nearby Arroyo.When: July 4th, food court opens at 2 pm; stadium opens at 6 pm, Drum and Bugle performances begin at 7, Fireworks at 9:05 pm.Where: The Rose Bowl Stadium, PasadenaCost: $13 General Admission, Kids 7 and under free, advance tickets go on sale in May through www.ticketmaster.com. Tickets go on sale at the gate about a week before the event. Cash only at the stadium.Parking: $15 cash for carsInfo: 626-577-3100, www.rosebowlstadium.com/RoseBowl_Americafest.htm

Palisades Americanism Parade

Old fashioned Independence Day Parade followed by entertainment and a fireworks display.When: July 4th, 2:00 parade, 6:30 pm entertainment, 9 pm fireworksWhere: Parade on Sunset Blvd. in Pacific Palisades between via de la Paz and Drummond St., Entertainment and fireworks at Palisades Charter High School.Info: www.palisadesparade.org

July 4th Fireworks, Marina Del Rey

Traditional fireworks extravaganza over the main channel in Marina del Rey programmed to patriotic music broadcast over FM radio KXLU, 88.9 and relayed over loudspeakers in Chase Park.When: July 4, 9 pmWhere: Chase Park, 13650 Mindanao Way (1 block west of Admiralty Way), Marina del Rey. Also viewable from Fisherman's Village and Marina BeachCost: FREEInfo: 310-305-9545, http://www.visitmarinadelrey.com/sg/july_4/index.html

July 4th Fireworks at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum

This free fireworks show launched from near the LA Memorial Coliseum is not actually in the Coliseum, but can be viewed from areas around Exposition Park including from Christmas Tree Lane or from the south lawn. Bring blankets or lawn chairs to enjoy the show.When: July 4, 8:45 pmWhere: Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, 3911 S. Figueroa Street, Los Angeles, CACost: FREEParking: available at 39th and Figueroa St.; Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. and Hoover St.; also at the USC CampusInfo: www.lacoliseumlive.com

Mr. & Mrs. Muscle Beach, Venice Beach

Body building pageant on the beach.When: July 4th, 9 am to 5 pm, pre-judging 10 am, finals 1 pmWhere: Venice Recreation Center, 1800 Ocean Front Walk, Venice BeachCost: Free to watch, $80 to competeInfo: http://musclebeachvenice.com, 310-399-2775Annual Vision Outside 4th of July Jazz and Blues Festival in Leimert ParkCelebrate the 4th of July at the Vision Theatre in Leimert Park with jazz and blues, children’s arts and crafts, face painting, delicious food, and free watermelon.When: July 4, 1:00 pm – 7:00 pmWhere: Vision Theatre back lot, 3341 W. 43rd Pl., Los AngelesCost: FreeInfo: 213-202-5500, www.culturela.org

4th of July BBQ at the Aquarium of the Pacific

Enjoy the Aquarium at night and get a fish-eye view of the Queen Mary fireworks. Combo tickets include admission to the aquarium plus an Independence Day B-B-Q buffet with home-style grilled entrees and decadent deserts. When: July 4, 5:00 - 10:00 pm Dinner 6 - 8 pm, Aquarium opens at 9 amWhere: Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach, 320 Golden Shore, Long BeachCost: Aquarium Admission is $11.95 for everyone after 5 pm. Regular admission is $20.95 Adult, $11.95 child 3-11, $17.95 seniors, Aquarium plus dinner $34 Adult, $27 Child. Advance reservations required for dinner.Info: 562-590-3100, www.aquariumofpacific.org

BBQ, Brews and Red, White & Blues

The Queen Mary Independence Day celebration will be an old-fashioned BBQ with Carolina, Texas, Kansas City and St. Louis BBQ represented as well as corn-on-the-cob, baked beans, funnel cake and other barbecue favorites. For desert, there's a build-your-own strawberry shortcake station. There will be 2 stages of live music, strolling entertainers and a children's area, culminating in the spectacular 4th of July fireworks show. Special hotel rates are available.When: July 3-4 11 am to 9 pm, Fireworks on the 4th at 9:00 pm (DJ on the back of the ship from 8 pm - 11 pm)Where: The Queen Mary, 1126 Queens Highway, Long Beach, CA 90802Cost: $24.95 Adult, $12.95 children 5-11, $21.95 military/seniors, tickets at the box office or onlineParking: $15Info: www.queenmary.com

Long Beach Kids' July 4th Bike Parade

Children and adults are encouraged to decorate their bikes and themselves for this annual patriotic procession on wheels that takes place on the beach bike path in Long Beach. In addition to the bike parade, the event will include competitions for children 12 and younger, including a Patriotic Oratory Competition (advance submission required), watermelon seed spitting, and patriotic costume contest. When: 10 am Where: Granada Ave and the bike path, Long Beach, CA 90803Cost: FreeParking: Free parking in Granada Beach Lot for the event, metered street parkingInfo: http://justinrudd.com/bikeparade.html

4th of July Celebration in San Pedro

Live music, U.S. military exhibits, tours of a Navy frigate, armed forces, and U.S. Coast Guard demonstrations, displays by the LA City Fire Department’s firefighting boat, and the Washington Artillery Reenactment group followed by fireworks.When: July 4, 12:00 noon – 10:00 pmWhere: Cabrillo Beach, 3720 Stephen M. White Dr., San PedroCost: FreeInfo: 310-548-7401, www.laparks.org

Soccer with Fireworks - LA Galaxy vs. Seattle Sounders FCLA Galaxy will take on the Seattle Sounders FC on July 4th with post game fireworks at the Home Depot Center in Carson. Also the first 5,000 fans in attendance will receive a free upper deck trading card. When: July 4th, 2010, 7:30 PM Where: Home Depot Center, Carson CA Cost: $20 and upParking: $15 Info: www.lagalaxy.com, 1-877-342-5499

Annual San Fernando Valley Independence Day Celebration A holiday celebration in the San Fernando Valley featuring music and other live entertainment, food, and fireworks. Take a swim in the 1.5-acre swim lake available for use during the day. When: July 4, 10 am – 10:00 pm Where: Hansen Dam Recreation Area, 11770 Foothill Blvd., Lake View TerraceCost: FreeInfo: 1-888-LA PARKS (527-2757), www.laparks.org

Irwindale Speedway NASCAR Races and Fireworks Show NASCAR K&N Pro West Series 200 Race and Auto Club Late Model Firecracker 100 races followed by a fireworks show.When: July 3, 4 pm – 10 pm, Gates open at 4, Autograph sessions at 5:45, races start at 7 pm Where:Toyota Speedway at Irwindale, 500 Speedway Drive, Irwindale, CA 91706Cost: General Admission $15, Reserved $25, Senior $12, Children 12 and under free (free ticket required).Info: www.toyotaspeedwayatirwindale.comJ

July 4th Fireworks Festival in Studio City This is a fun-filled family festival featuring exhibits, music, food, fireworks, a children’s fun zone, and a business exposition in a back lot at CBS Studios.When: July 4, 5:00 – 9:30 pm, gates open at 4:30 pmWhere: CBS Studio Center, 4024 Radford Ave., Studio City, Los AngelesCost: Adults $15 advance, $20 at the gate, Children 6-12 $8 advance, $10 at the gate, add $20 for rooftop viewing access or pay $100 for VIP tickets.Parking: FreeInfo: 818-655-5916, www.studiocitychamber.com

Annual Dennis P. Zine July 4th Extravaganza in Woodland Hills

Huge Fourth of July fireworks festival in the West Valley with food vendors, play zone, a free concert and fireworks show.When: July 4, Concert 6:00 - 8:00 pm, fireworks to live music at 9:05 pm Where: Warner Park, 5800, Topanga Canyon Blvd., Woodland HillsCost: FreeParking: $15 in any of the Warner Center structures between Topanga and Canoga or Califa and OxnardInfo: 818-704-1358, www.valleycultural.org

4th of July Spectacular in Porter Ranch The FREE festival and fireworks show at Shepherd of the Hills Church in Porter Ranch includes moon bounces and face painting for the children, an outdoor stage show as well as optional food purchases from over a dozen local food vendors; all capped off with a twenty-one minute aerial fireworks display. When: July 4, 4:30 pm – 10 pm, Gates open at 4:30Where: Shepherd of the Hills Church , 19700 Rinaldi Street, Porter Ranch, CA 91326Cost: FreeParking: FreeInfo: www.theshepherd.org/events/4th-of-july-spectacular

Independence Day Celebration and Parade in Huntington Beach The “largest and oldest parade of its kind west of the Mississippi,” a 5K run/walk, bands, clowns, celebrities, floats and fireworks on “Surf City’s” famous Main Street. When: Parade July 4, Festival July 3, 4, 5Where: Festival at Pier Plaza at Huntington Beach Pier, Parade runs along Main Street from Pacific Coast Highway to Clay Ave.Cost: Free, reserved parade seating and fireworks seating is available for a fee.Info: www.hb4thofjuly.org View HB Parade Photos.

City of Diamond Bar’s Annual 4th of July Blast

Spend the summer afternoon at the park with family, friends, and neighbors. Bring a picnic or enjoy a variety of concessions available. Kids’ crafts, face painting, and patriotic musical performances lead up to the fireworks display.When: July 4, 5:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.Where: Diamond Bar High School, 21400 Pathfinder Rd, Diamond BarCost: FreeInfo: 909-839-7070, www.cityofdiamondbar.com

Old Glory Boat Parade Decorated boats parade through Newport Harbor When: July 4, 1-5 pmWhere: Newport Harbor/Balboa IslandCost: FreeInfo: www.balboa-island.net, (949) 673-5070

Dana Point 4th of July Fireworks Show The City of Dana Point presents an aerial sky show, featuring a musical simulcast presented by radio station KSBR 88.5 FM. Arrive early to picnic over the Harbor on the cliffs of Blue Lantern Park or Heritage Park. When: July 4, 9 pm, beach opens at 6 amWhere: Doheny State Beach, 25300 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, CA 92629Cost: FreeInfo: www.danapoint.org, (949) 248-3530Note: Fireworks are NOT permitted on the beach.

Fullerton Community Fireworks Show and Festival An old-fashioned Fourth of July party, the festival features live entertainment, games for all ages, food booths and a special aerial fireworks display. When: July 4, 5-9:30Where: Fullerton High School Stadium, Lemon St. & Berkeley Ave. Fullerton, CA 92832Cost: Free. Fee for some activitiesInfo: www.cityoffullerton.com, (714) 738-6545

Disney's Celebrate America! A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky A special 4th of July fireworks display over Disneyland set to music. When: July 1-4, 9:30 pmWhere: Disneyland CaliforniaCost: Regular Disneyland Admission appliesInfo: www.Disneyland.comMore: Disneyland Visitors Guide

Fun Father's Day Craft

2010-06-17T21:53:00.000-07:00

Make this cute father's day card for your gramps, uncle, stepdad or dad...

Total Time Needed:
30 Minutes or less

Even if the dad in your house isn't a shirt-and-tie kind of guy, he's sure to love this stylish Father's Day card.

Materials
Decorative scrapbook paper
Glue
Scissors

Instructions
1. To make one, first cut a 4- by 12-inch rectangle from a piece of decorative scrapbook paper and fold it in half to create a double-layer 4- by 6-inch rectangle.

2. Form the collar by cutting 2 matching 1-inch-long horizontal slits about 1 inch below the fold.

3. Fold over the 2 flaps as shown, then glue them down with a 5-inch-long tie shape cut from another piece of decorative paper glued between them. Glue a pair of small buttons to the collar.

4. Once the glue has dried, lift the bottom front of the card and write a Father's Day greeting inside.

Just for Dad...Family fun 6/18-20

2010-06-14T20:59:00.000-07:00

Friday, June 18

18th Annual Warehouse Sale @ Mrs. Nelson Book Fair Warehouse
When Fri, June 18, 8am – 4pm
Where1648 W. Orange Grove Ave., Pomona

Description Don't miss your chance to purchases cookbooks and books for children and young adults for 40% - 70% off regular prices. The warehouse is on the south side of the street and is white with blue trim. Lot parking is limited, but shoppers may also park on Orange Grove. For more information, call 909.865.8550 or visit http://www.mrsnelsons.com/book-fair-company

Butterfly Pavilion @ Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden
When Fri, June 18, 10am – 3pm
Where 1500 N. College Ave., Claremont
Description Don't miss the opening of the garden's newest attraction - an interactive exhibition designed to allow visitors to walk among and learn about native Southern California butterflies. Hundreds of butterflies will call the temporary enclosure home. In addition to standard RSABG admission fees, the entry fee for the Butterfly Pavilion is $2 per person. For more information, visit http://www.rsabg.org.

Teen Anime and Manga @ Alhambra Civic Center Library
When Fri, June 18, 3pm – 5pm
Where 101 S. First St., Alhambra

Description If you love Anime, Manga or both then come on down to the library where each month teens meet to watch and discuss the latest in Anime and Manga. The Anime and Manga group meets on the first and third Fridays of the month.

Farmers' Market and Green Living Information @ Claremont Packing House
When Fri, June 18, 5pm – 8pm
Where 586 W. First St., Claremont

Description Shop for fresh, local organic produce. Collect green information, ideas and inspiration. Proceeds support the Claremont Forum and the Prison Library Project. For more information, call 909.626.3066.

Twilight Night: Aloha Luau @ Kidspace Museum
When Fri, June 18, 5pm – 8pm
Where 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena

Description Kick off your summer with a tropical getaway. Come dressed in aloha shirts and hula skirts. Make your own lei, participate in hula dancing and drumming, taste a tropical fruit drink and enjoy Hawaiian BBQ by Wolfgang Puck. The Polynesian Paradise Dancers will perform and teach the hula and other Polynesian dances at 6:30pm in the Amphitheater. Admission is $5 per guest for both members and nonmembers.

Family Game Nights @ Mrs. Nelson's, LaVerne
When Fri, June 18, 6pm – 7pm
Where Mrs. Nelson's Toy and Book Shop, 1030 Bonita Ave., LaVerne

Description Family-friendly games are featured at the weekly Family Game Night (instead of PJ Storytime). Each week a new game will be featured and attendees will have the opportunity to purchase that game (and all other games made by the featured game's manufacturer) for a 10% discount. For more information, call 909.599.4558 or visit www.mrsnelsons.com.

Kids Concert III @ Longfellow Elementary School
When Fri, June 18, 6pm – 7pm
Where Auditorium, 1065 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadena

Description Welcome summer with a Summer Solstice presentation of string instrument and choral music. This FREE concert is part of the Verdugo Young Musicians Association (VYMA) Music Project at Longfellow Elementary School, which was launched September 2009 as an after-school music education program. In partnership with Pasadena LEARNS, the program provides free instruments and classical musical instruction to students in grades 1 to 6. The performance includes choir, orchestra, chamber ensemble and Kindergartners demonstration as a musical bonus. The project is inspired by El Sistema, the successful Venezuelan music education model that produced LA Philharmonic Music Director Gustavo Dudamel. Admission is free, but donations are accepted. A fund-raising bake sale will be on site.

Night Walk @ Descanso Gardens
When Fri, June 18, 7pm – 9pm
Where 1418 Descanso Dr., La Canada

Description Docents Jim and Joanne Jackson lead an enchanting evening walk through the Gardens. Participants must be 12 and older. Sensible shoes, flashlight and jacket. Advanced reservations required. $10 members, $15 non-members. Call 818.949.7980 to register.

Saturday, June 19

18th Annual Warehouse Sale @ Mrs. Nelson Book Fair Warehouse
When Sat, June 19, 8am – 4pm
Where 1648 W. Orange Grove Ave., Pomona

Description Don't miss your chance to purchases cookbooks and books for children and young adults for 40% - 70% off regular prices. The warehouse is on the south side of the street and is white with blue trim. Lot parking is limited, but shoppers may also park on Orange Grove. For more information, call 909.865.8550 or visit http://www.mrsnelsons.com/book-fair-company

Victory Park Farmers' Market Pasadena
When Sat, June 19, 8:30am – 12:30pm
Where Victory Park, Sierra Madre Blvd at Paloma St, Pasadena, CA
Description What better way to buy fresh fruits & veggies than from a certified farmers' market. Sellers only sell what they grow, so you know where your food came from -- locally! Other vendors offer jams, jellies, fish, and more. Cash only altho EBT Electronic Benefit Transfers also accepted. 626-449-0179

Household Hazardous Waste Collection @ LA County Flood Control Maintenance Yard
When Sat, June 19, 9am – 3pm
Where 160 E. Longden Ave., Irwindale
Description Round up your household hazardous waste and bring your items to this free event.

FREE Family Nature Hikes @ Eaton Canyon Nature Ctr
When Sat, June 19, 9am – 11am
Where Eaton Canyon Nature Center, 1750 N. Altadena Dr., Pasadena
Description Family nature walk held every Saturday morning @ Eaton Canyon Nature Center , weather permitting, 9 to 11 a.m. Walking shoes, sunscreen, water, hats are recommended for this guided walk geared toward families with small children. Meet in front of the building. 626-398-5420.

FREE Pasadena Chalk Festival @ Paseo Colorado
When Sat, June 19, 10am – 7pm
Where Near Macy's, 400 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena

Description For centuries, artists have painted beautiful images on the streets of great cities, using chalk as their medium and the street pavement as their canvas. The Pasadena Chalk Festival continues the legacy of the street painting art form. Hundreds of Madonnari (Italian for street painter) coming from all across Southern California will use over 25,000 pieces of chalk will attempt to establish a world record creating spectacular murals on concrete areas the size of two city blocks. For more information, call 626.795.8891 or visit http;//www.pasadenachalkfestival.com

Cars! Cars! Cars! Father's Day Weekend @ Kidspace
When Sat, June 19, 10am – 5pm
Where 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena

Description Bring your Dad down to Kidspace for this special family event inspired by cars. Have fun painting race cars or driving remote control cars in the interactive gardens. “Kids Are 1st” will offer free child identification cards. They will also be conducting car seat inspections on Saturday, June 19th by reservation only. On Sunday at 3 pm, enjoy a large screen viewing of Disney/Pixar movie Cars. Reserved seating only; popcorn included.

Butterfly Pavilion @ Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden
When Sat, June 19, 10am – 3pm
Where 1500 N. College Ave., Claremont

Description Don't miss the opening of the garden's newest attraction - an interactive exhibition designed to allow visitors to walk among and learn about native Southern California butterflies. Hundreds of butterflies will call the temporary enclosure home. In addition to standard RSABG admission fees, the entry fee for the Butterfly Pavilion is $2 per person. For more information, visit http://www.rsabg.org/.

Pasadena Critical Mass
When Sat, June 19, 10am – 12pm
Where Memorial Park, 150 N Raymond Ave AVE, Pasadena, CA 91103

Description Pasadena Critical Mass is a fun social bike ride for all ages and ability levels. We ride the streets of Pasadena at a slow and easy pace. You're welcome to bring your kids on the ride - make sure they can ride predictably in a straight line, or bring them on a tag-a-long or in a trailer. Helmets are required by law for anyone under 18. The group often provides music on the ride and often finish the morning at a park to play or for a picnic.

Basics of Organic Vegetable Gardening @ Descanso Gardens
When Sat, June 19, 10am – 11am
Where Nature's Table, 1418 Descanso Dr., La Canada
Description Learn the basics and raise healthy, tasty vegetables for your family. Descanso display horticulturist Mike Brown shows you the basics of sustaining your garden organically by maintaining balance and good health without the use of pesticides and herbicides. Free for members; $10 for non-members. No walk-ins. Class size is limited and advanced registration required. Call 818.949.7980 to register.

Silk Road Storytime @ Pacific Asia Museum
When Sat, June 19, 10:30am – 11:30am
Where Pacific Asia Museum, 46 North Los Robles Avenue, Pasadena California 91101 Description Gather in the silk travelers’ tent to hear stories from China, the home of Confucius. Free with admission: $7 adults, $5 students 12+ & seniors 65+. FREE for ages under 12. FREE parking.

FREE Children's Craft @ Lakeshore Learning
When Sat, June 19, 11am – 3pm
Where3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena

Description Drop in and enjoy FREE crafts for kids ages 3 and up. For more information, call 626.356.3848 or visit www.lakeshorelearning.com.

FREE Music Kickoff Concert @ Pasadena Central Library
When Sat, June 19, 11am – 1pm
Where Donald Wright Auditorium, 285 E. Walnut St., Pasadena
Description Get ready to keep the beat as acoustic musicians kick off the all-day Make Music Pasadena Festival. This FREE event is appropriate for all ages.

Weekly Knitting Group @ Hill Avenue Branch Library
When Sat, June 19, 2:00pm – 2:30pm
Where Hill Avenue Branch Library, 55. S. Hill Ave., Pasadena
Description Learn the art of knitting with Betty Parnell. All levels, from beginners to long-time knitting lovers, are welcome. For more information, call 626.744.7264.

Monrovia Old Town Family Cinema Night @ Library Park
When Sat, June 19, 8pm – 10pm
Where321 S. Myrtle at Lime

Description Bring a lawn chair or blanket and join your neighbors for a FREE family-friendly movie, "Sandlot," in Old Town's beautiful Library Park.

Sunday, June 20

Farmers' and Artisans' Market @ Claremont Village
When Sun, June 20, 8am – 9am
Where 2nd St. and Indian Hill Blvd. ()
Description Shop for fresh local and organic produce, plants, flowers and cheeses, gifts and jewelry made by local craftspeople, used books and more. Sponsored by The Claremont Forum.

Certified Farmers' Market @ Alhambra
When Sun, June 20, 8:30am – 1:00pm
Where Monterey St., (1 block east of Garfield, 1/2 block south of Main)

Description Shop for fresh, local fruits and produce at this bustling Alhambra market that meets every Sunday except Easter. This market is well known for unusual Asian fruits and vegetables that aren't available at other San Gabriel Valley Farmers' Markets For more information about the Alhambra Certified Farmers’ Market, call 626.570.5081 weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Sunday Market in the Park @ Old Town Monrovia
When Sun, June 20, 9am – 2pm
Where 100 Block of West Lime Ave., adjacent to Library Park

Description Monrovia is now hosting a second weekly Farmers Market every Sunday in Old Town. The market features farm-fresh produce, cut flowers, baked goods and fine food products. For more information, call 626.303.6600.

Father's Day Concert @ Descanso Gardens
When Sun, June 20, 9am – 10am
Where 1418 Descanso Dr., La Canada
Description Bring dad to the Gardens on Father’s Day for food, flowers, foliage and entertainment! Kick back and enjoy a free concert by Grammy Award nominee Lisa Haley and the Zydecats from 1 to 3 p.m. on Descanso’s Main Lawn. Lisa and her high-spirited band have been called “the most joyful Americana/Cajun/Zydeco act on tour today.” The day also features barbecue selections from Patina Catering from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Limited table and chairs are available, so bring blankets and folding chairs to dine among the trees. (No outside picnics are allowed.)

Cars! Cars! Cars! Father's Day Weekend @ Kidspace
When Sun, June 20, 10am – 5pm
Where 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena

Description Bring your Dad down to Kidspace for this special family event inspired by cars. Have fun painting race cars or driving remote control cars in the interactive gardens. “Kids Are 1st” will offer free child identification cards. They will also be conducting car seat inspections on Saturday, June 19th by reservation only. On Sunday at 3 pm, enjoy a large screen viewing of Disney/Pixar movie Cars. Reserved seating only; popcorn included.

Butterfly Pavilion @ Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden
When Sun, June 20, 10am – 3pm
Where 1500 N. College Ave., Claremont

Description Don't miss the opening of the garden's newest attraction - an interactive exhibition designed to allow visitors to walk among and learn about native Southern California butterflies. Hundreds of butterflies will call the temporary enclosure home. In addition to standard RSABG admission fees, the entry fee for the Butterfly Pavilion is $2 per person. For more information, visit http://www.rsabg.org/.

FREE Pasadena Police Department Classic Car Show @ Paseo Colorado
When Sun, June 20, 11am – 4pm
Where Colorado Blvd., between Marengo and Euclid

Description Bring Dad or any car lover to the FREE Car Show featuring more than 150 Classic Cars from 1930 to 1974. Trophy Categories include Open & Closed Automobiles and Light Trucks, Hot Rods, Stock Modified and an Import Class. Trophies will be awarded for 1st Place in each division, with special recognition for Best in Show, People's Choice and the Police Chief's Favorite. The event will also include an auction for a Police Helicopter Ride, a 50/50 cash drawing, live music, food booths and raffle prizes. For more information, call Tom Pederson at 626.744.4507.

FREE Concert with Lisa Haley and the Zydecats @ Descanso Gardens
When Sun, June 20, 1pm – 3pm
Where 1418 Descanso Dr., La Canada

Description Bring dad to the Gardens on Father’s Day for food, flowers, foliage and entertainment! Kick back and enjoy a free concert by Grammy © nominee Lisa Haley and the Zydecats on Descanso’s Main Lawn. Lisa and her high-spirited band have been “the most joyful Americana/Cajun/Zydeco act on tour today.” The day also features barbecue selections from Patina Catering from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Limited table and chairs are available so bring blankets and folding chairs to dine among the trees. (No outside picnics are allowed.)

Father’s Day Picnic
Sunday, June 20 11:30a Aquarium of the Pacific, Long Beach Show your father just how much you care by treating him to a fun-filled day at the Aquarium. The entire family (and extended family) can celebrate Father's Day at the Aquarium with a special

Father’s Day / Juneteenth Celebration June 19 & 20, 2010 12 - 5pm
Saturday, June 19 12:00p Leimert Park Village Courtyard, Los Angeles Barbara & Friends Web TV Show & The Music Arts Network Barbara Morrison will be joining Lenny Williams, formerly of Tower of Power, Brenda Lee Eager, Marva Smith, Evan Pigford's Mixed Bag

Father's Day Brunch at Fleming's
Sunday, June 20 11:30a Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar, Los Angeles Celebrate dear old Dad with Father's Day Brunch at Fleming's. The three course brunch is served from 11:30am to 3pm, and the regular dinner menu is served all day and evening.

GBBB's 1ST Annual Dance-a-Thon
Friday, June 18 6:00p African American Fire Fighter Museum, Los Angeles Register Today Save A Child One Family At A Time June 18, 2010 Please join us a the African American Firefighter Museum 1401 S.

Children’s Institute, Inc. Annual Project Fatherhood Conference
Friday, June 18 8:30a Radisson Hotel Los Angeles Westside, Culver City Strengthening Relationships Between Fathers and Their At-Risk Children The annual one-day conference features nine workshops that explore the pivotal role of fathers in the lives of their children.

LA FONDA Father's Day Celebration
Sunday, June 20 12:30p La Fonda on Wilshire, Los Angeles LA FONDA on Wilshire Invites you to come Celebrate Father's Day on Sunday, June 20th, 2010. Mariachi Showtimes are- 12:30p, 2:00p, 6:00p, 8:30p.

Father's Day Silent Matinee: The Kid
Sunday, June 20 2:00p Cinefamily, Los Angeles Father's Day Silent Matinee: The Kid

Free Workouts for Dads at 24 Hour Fitness over Father's Day Weekend
Saturday, June 19 12:00a 24 Hour Fitness West Hollywood, Ca, West Hollywood In celebration of Father’s Day, 24 Hour Fitness invites all dads and other guests to exercise for free at any 24 Hour Fitness club in the Los Angeles area over Father’s Day weekend.

May is upon us....

2010-04-26T15:32:00.000-07:00

I've been a bad blogger! I get so busy with work and life, that I forget that I'm suppose to be blogging & tweeting!

Wanted to take a second to share some upcoming Family May activites in the Los Angeles Area:

Wednesday, April 28, 2010 FREE 6 to 7pm Family Fun Night @ Blue Chair Books 177 N. Glendora Ave., Glendora Enjoy a FREE night of fun and games for all ages.

Friday, April 30, 2010 9am – 4:30pm Mt. Sacs Plant Sale @ Descanso Gardens 1418 Descanso Dr., La Canada Flintridge. The Horticulture Department from Mt. SAC fills Magnolia Lawn with a wide range of indoor and outdoor varieties that may include palms, clivia, ficus, impatiens, ivy, parrot’s beak, perennials and assorted garden treasures. Free with Gardens admission.

Saturday, May 1, 2010

FREE 8am - 11am Create a Butterfly Garden @ Hastings Branch Library 3325 E. Orange Grove Blvd., Pasadena. Bring your gardening tools, sun screen, hats and gloves and join in planting new native drought tolerant plants sure to attract Monarchs, Queens, Swallowtails, Painted Ladies, Buckeyes, Red Admirals, Suphurs, Whites, Gray Hairstreaks, Skippers and Azures! To sign up for this event contact Rhonda Stone at rstone@cityofpasadena.net or 626.744.4740 or just show up.

8am - 10am Family Bird Walk @ LA County Arboretum 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia. Naturalist/Recreation Leader Ray Jillson will lead you on a 2 to 4 hour walk through the Arboretum in search feathered friends. Children are welcome but must be with an adult. The family bird walk is held on the first Saturday of each month. Meet in front of the rotunda at 8am and wear comfortable walking shoes, a hat and weather-appropriate clothing. Bring bottled water and binoculars. Free with admission. For more information, call 626.821.3222. 9am -

4:30pm Mt. Sacs Plant Sale @ Descanso Gardens, 1418 Descanso Dr., La Canada Flintridge The Horticulture Department from Mt. SAC fills Magnolia Lawn with a wide range of indoor and outdoor varieties that may include palms, clivia, ficus, impatiens, ivy, parrot’s beak, perennials and assorted garden treasures. Free with Gardens admission.

10am - 4pm Carnival in the Park @ Sierra Madre Nursery School, 611 E. Sierra Madre Blvd., Sierra Madre. Kids can enjoy pony rides, a petting zoo, arts and crafts, digging for buried treasure and lots of Carnival games at Sierra Madre Community Nursery School's Annual Carnival in the Park. Goodies for adults include a live plant booth, a handmade goods shop and a dessert booth, just in time for Mother's Day. Food and drinks will also be available for purchase. For more information, call 626.355.1655.

12pm - 2pm 1st Annual "Big Hat Tea" @ Inland Valley Mocha Moms 7120 Golden Vale Dr., Riverside. Come with love in your heart and a hat on your head! The Inland Valley Mocha Moms want to see your biggest, boldest fedora, beret, bowler or Sunday-best hat at their first annual "Big Hat Tea." Spend the afternoon indulging in a special high-tea spread, speakers and shopping. The Mocha Moms promise that this is "not your grandmother's tea." Cost for the event is $20 per person. Proceeds will benefit sickle cell anemia.

Sunday, May 2, 2010

FREE1pm - 6:30pm Cinco de Mayo Celebration @ Barnes Park Ampitheater 350 S. McPherrin Ave., Monterey Park. Celebrate Cinco de Mayo at this festival that includes Folklorico Dancers, Mariachis and other traditional Mexican music. Dora the Explorer will be making an appearance and will pose for photos with children. Authentic Mexican food, including carne asade tacos, nachos, taquitos, and pan dulce, will be available for sale from the Monterey Park/Morelia Sister City Association.

3pm - 5pm Family Day @ Pasadena Museum of California Art, 490 East Union St., Pasadena. Join the family fun with arts and crafts activities based on our current exhibitions at Pasadena Museum of California Art. All ages are welcome.

Tuesday, May 4, 2010

FREE 4pm - 8pm Family Night: Lineage Dance @ Kidspace Children's Museum, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena. Free admission for all guests to this 3-acre indoor/outdoor educational extravaganza! Explore the Digging Deeper Gallery, Interactive Gardens, Early Childhood Center and more. Regular admission is $9 peradult/child. During this month's Free Family Night, Lineage Dance Company will showcase contemporary and classic dance forms to visiting families. Dancers will hold workshops so children can express themselves through movement. This program is made possible in part by the Pasadena Art & Culture Commission and the City of Pasadena Cultural Affairs Division. For more information, call 626.449.9144.

Friday, May 7, 2010

FREE 3pm - 4pm Teen Anime and Manga @ Alhambra Civic Center Library 101 S. First St., Alhambra. If you love Anime, Manga or both then come on down to the library where each month teens meet to watch and discuss the latest in Anime and Manga. The Anime and Manga group meets on the first and third Fridays of the month.

FREE 6pm - 9pm Free Admission to Norton Simon Museum of Art 411 W. Colorado Boulevard, Pasadena. Admission is free for all after 6pm the first Friday of every month. Saturday, May 8, 2010 9am - 4pm

FREE Children's Literature Day @ Mt. San Antonio College Theater, Student Life Center (Building 9C), 1100 N. Grand Ave., Walnut Bring the whole family to this FREE event designed to help families raise readers. Children's authors will be on hand all day to read from and sign copies of their books. Live entertainment will also be on going throughout the day. For more information and a complete schedule, visit the Website.

10am - 12pm Family Adventures @ LA County Arboretum 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia. Join your adventure guide at The Arboretum for a new and exciting nature adventure on the second Saturday of the month. May's theme is Exploring Tropical Plants. Family Adventures are FREE with admission to The Arboretum. Come early as space is limited to 25. Children of all ages are welcome. Family adventures will go on rain or shine so dress appropriately. Meet by the fountain in front of the Oak Room.

FREE 10am - 12pm Kids in the Kitchen @ Junior League of Pasadena 145 N. Raymond Ave., Pasadena. This FREE event for kids 4th to 6th graders and their parents/caregivers will teach healthy eating and making your own nutritious snacks. Meet some NFL stars and supermodel Josie Maran and take home some great recipes to share with your family. Pre-registration is required. Please visit the Website or call 626.796.0244.

10am - 5pm Mother's Day Spa @ Kidspace Museum, 480 N Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena. Take your mom to the Kidspace Spa for Mother’s Day and create a spa gift bag with gifts you made for mom throughout the day. * Using all natural materials from the Kidspace gardens, mix your own facial scrubs, assemble sachets and make all natural soaps. * Create Mother’s Day cards. * Buy your mom a massage. A professional massage therapist will be at Kidspace so you can let you mom relax, ($1/minute) * Enjoy a brunch basket from Wolfgang Puck Catering! Pre-order Brunch Baskets Online. All orders are non-refundable.

10am - 2pm Mother's Nest Pampering Event @ Belle's Nest 55 N. Baldwin Ave., Sierra Madre. Calling Mothers and others. Pamper yourself for Mother's Day just a little early. Relax in the garden, unwind with a soothing chair massage and a restorative foot bath while nibbling on sumptuous bites amid the eclectic offerings of Belle's Nest. The foot baths will be provided by the Four Graces, the ladies who provided the chair massages and footbaths at the February Orange Cat Mom Mixer. Cost is $20 per person. For more information, visit The Four Graces online.

FREE 11am - 12pm Family Tour @ Pacific Asia Museum 46 North Los Robles Avenue, Pasadena, Second Saturday of every month at 11am Enjoy a docent-led tour of collection highlights in a family-friendly format. Best for ages 4 and up, adult participation required. Free, but reservations required; call (626) 449-2742 ext. 31.

Sunday, May 9, 2010

10am - 5pm Mother's Day Spa @ Kidspace Museum 480 N Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena Take your mom to the Kidspace Spa for Mother’s Day and create a spa gift bag with gifts you made for mom throughout the day. * Using all natural materials from the Kidspace gardens, mix your own facial scrubs, assemble sachets and make all natural soaps. * Create Mother’s Day cards. * Buy your mom a massage. A professional massage therapist will be at Kidspace so you can let you mom relax, ($1/minute) * Enjoy a brunch basket from Wolfgang Puck Catering! Pre-order Brunch Baskets Online. All orders are non-refundable.

Tuesday, May 11, 2010

FREE 11am - 12pm Dia De Los Ninos @ Bob Lucas Branch Library 2659 N. Lincoln Ave., Altadena. Celebrate children, books and culture with story telling troupe We Tell Stories, who will perform their hit story - plat Cunetos de la Familia/Stories of the Family. Cultural crafts include tissue paper flowers, paper bag pinatas and papel picado. Free book giveaways and other prizes. This event repeats at 3:30pm.

FREE 6:30pm - 7:30pm Build Your Own Stuffed Animal @ Altadena Library 600 E. Mariposa St., Altadena Children ages 3 - 8: Build your own collectible stuffed animal. Select an animal to stuff and then decorate a T-shirt for your new friend. Space is limited and pre-registration is required! Visit the library Website for details about how to sign-up. Wednesday, May 12, 2010

10:30am - 11:30am Sunny Tales from Around the World: Pasadena Museum of History Storyteller @ San Rafael Branch Library 1240 Nithsdale Rd., Pasadena. PMH is launching a monthly storytelling series in collaboration with the Pasadena Public Library, San Rafael branch. On the second Wednesday of every month, the Museum’s beloved storyteller Sunny Stevenson will enthrall her listeners with stories from her vast repertoire. Please join us!

6pm - 8pm ADULTS FREE DATE NIGHT Foreign Film @ Arcadia Library Auditorium, 20 W. Duarte Rd., Arcadia. Who says "date night" has to come on a weekend? Every second Wednesday, Arcadia Library shows a FREE foreign film. Guests are welcome to bring dinner, and the library will provide FREE dessert. May film is About My Mother, which won a 1999 Academy Award for Foreign Language Film. The film from Spain is rated R. Thursday, May 13, 2010

5pm - 10pm Play Days Carnival @ Barnes Park 350 S. McPherrin Ave., Monterey Park. Enjoy four days of rides, attractions and entertainment during the Monterey Park Play Days. Pre-Sale Ride Coupons will be available from May 1 until May 13th. Click here to see some of the rides that may becoming to Monterey Park! All rides are specially priced at $1/ride on Thursday. For a complete schedule of entertainment, go to the Website.

Friday, May 14, 2010

FREE 3:30pm - 5:30pm FREE Jazz Music Clinic @ Pasadena John Muir High School Auditorium, 1905 Lincoln Ave., Pasadena. This FREE clinic is open to all Southern California music students in elementary, high school and college levels to support the return of jazz education. An all-star assemblage of talented jazz musicians –vocalist Lalah Hathaway, saxophonist Louis Van Taylor, pianist Donn Wyatt, drummer Stephen Foster, trumpeter and musical director Noland Shaheed, along with other special guests – will share their talents. Admission is free; Pasadena Unified School District (PUSD) students must show their student ID, and registration is required for all non-PUSD students. For reservations, call the Jazzy Jam-Pasadena Hotline at 626. 744.8081 or email. Limited seating is available and reservations are on a first come, first served basis. Reservation deadline: Wednesday, May 7, 2010. For additional information, visit the Website.

5pm - 10pm Play Days Carnival @ Barnes Park 350 S. McPherrin Ave., Monterey Park Enjoy rides, attractions and entertainment during the Monterey Park Play Days, through May 16. See Thursday calendar.

FREE 6pm - 7pm Family Game Nights @ Mrs. Nelson's Toy and Book Shop, 1030 Bonita Ave., LaVerne. Family-friendly games are featured at the weekly Family Game Night (instead of PJ Storytime). Each week a new game will be featured and attendees will have the opportunity to purchase that game (and all other games made by the featured game's manufacturer) for a 10% discount. For more information, call 909.599.4558

More to come!

www.agaperabba.com
Party planning and event entertainment

January 2010 Party Tips of the Day

2010-02-04T20:28:00.000-08:00

Party tip of the day: Lists and organization is key to a productive & successful party! Email me for your free checklist agaperabba@msn.com

Party tip of the day: Instead of chips and dips make sweet potato chips with cucumber dip! Healthy works too! 11:16 PM Feb 2nd

Party tip of the day: You don't always do a princess theme for a little girl! Think outside the box! 12:02 AM Jan 31st

Party tip of the day: Hire someone to keep the kids busy during the big game! 11:19 PM Jan 24th

Donate at hopeforhaitinow.org make ur donation! Anything helps! Or call toll free 1-877-99-HAITI 1:01 AM Jan 23rd from web
Delete

Party tip of the day: Don't wait till the last minute to book your entertainment, get your rentals or book your venue-the earlier the better 10:44 PM Jan 22nd

Party tip of the day: Don't forget a fun and unique give-a-way aka favor for your party guests! 12:24 AM Jan 22nd

Party tip of the day: Add some sugar to the mix with a candy buffet, cotton candy or candy apples! Who doesn't like a little treat! 12:53 AM Jan 21st

Party tip of the day: support our local face painters! 12:52 AM Jan 20th

Party tip of the day: look around at what is going on in the world to create your next special event!!! www.agaperabba.com 10:07 PM Jan 18th

Party tip of the day: Avatar, Princess & the Frog, Sherlock Holmes...movies or PARTY THEMES!!! Let us make your next birthday original and fun! 10:05 PM Jan 18th

Party tip of the day: Need a reason to have a party? check out the January holidays http://www.holidayinsights.com/moreholidays/january.htm 7:24 PM Jan 5th

Check out all the new laws in Cali http://www.mercedsunstar.com/105/story/1251936.html?storylink=omni_popular 11:16 PM Jan 3rd

Party tip of the day: On a budget? It's okay to use a hodgepodge of party supplies and colors...I keep of box of old supplies just in case! 10:15 PM Jan 3rd

Party tip of the day: Balloons, balloons, balloons! Every party becomes just a little more festive with balloons! 1:02 AM Jan 3rd

Party tip of the day: New Years Party-Make sure to have non-alcoholic beverages for designated drivers & anyone who does not wish to drink.

Happy New Year

2010-01-02T20:03:00.000-08:00

Bringing in the New Year with a goal of decluttering the junk, including party supplies of parties past!

Looking forward to blogging more this year then last and celebrating with you all on your special occasions!

Don't forget to check us out on Twitter for your free party tip of the day !!

Thank you to all our past customers for keeping Agaperabba up and running! We appreciate you!

Let's not take CHRIST out of Christmas :)

2009-12-15T00:06:00.000-08:00

The true meaning of the Candy Cane

Look at the Candy Cane
What do you see?
Stripes that are red
Like the blood shed for me

White is for my Savior
Who's sinless and pure!
"J" is for Jesus My Lord, that's for sure!

Turn it around
And a staff you will see
Jesus my shepherd
Was born for Me!

Candy Canes are YUMMY!
When you see a candy cane, are you reminded of how much Jesus loves you? Jesus came to earth over 2000 years ago to demonstrate His love for the WHOLE world!

A GREAT IDEA
Share the love of Jesus with your neighbors and friends! Make a few of the crafts and recipes below. Print the story of the candy cane and attach to your "gift." Dress in Christmassy colors and visit your neighbors. Wish them "Merry Christmas" and give them your candy cane gift :) It will warm their heart as well as yours this season!

The LEGEND of the Candy Cane
A Candymaker in Indiana wanted to make a candy that would help us remember who Christmas is really about. So he made a Christmas Candy Cane. He incorporated several symbols for the birth, ministry, and death of Jesus Christ.
He began with a stick of pure white, hard candy. White to symbolize the virgin birth and sinless nature of Jesus. Hard candy to symbolize the solid rock, the foundation of the Church, and firmness of the promises of God.
The candymaker made the candy in the form of a "J" to represent the name of Jesus. It also represented the staff of the "Good Shepherd".
The candymaker then included red stripes. He used three small stripes and a large red stripe to represent the suffering Christ endured at the end of his life.
The candy became known as a Candy Cane - a decoration seen at Christmas time. The meaning has faded, but still gives joy to children young and old, whom Jesus loves and treasures.

Nothing warms the heart like HOT COCOA!
Candy Cane Cocoa
4 cups milk3 (1 ounce) squares semisweet chocolate, chopped4 peppermint candy canes, crushed1 cup whipped cream4 small peppermint candy canes
Heat the milk until steaming hot - NOT boiling. Add the chocolate and crushed peppermint candy and allow them to melt and become smooth.
Pour into Christmas mugs and garnish with whipped cream. Add candy cane stirring stick to make it extra special :)

Candy Cane Recipe Ideas

Candy Cane Fudge
1 package vanilla milk chips 1 can Pillsbury Vanilla Creamy Supreme Icing 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract 4 drops of red food coloring 2 Tablespoons of peppermint candy canes (chopped)
Put vanilla chips in pan on the stove at medium heat. Continue stirring until the chips have melted. Add icing to pan and continue stirring. Take off heat and add peppermint extract until dissolved. Pour mixture into a pan. Take food coloring and add one drop in each corner of pan. Take butter knife and begin stirring until the food coloring has been swirled into the fudge. Add chopped peppermint pieces to top of fudge. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and place in the refrigerator until the fudge has harden. Cut into small pieces.

Chocolate Candy Cane Bites
4 3-oz. chocolate bars, 2 semisweet 1 milk & 1 white chocolate1/2 c Crushed candy canes
Using 3 separate bowls for the 3 different types of chocolate, melt the candy bars. Stir half of the candy into the semisweet chocolate. Set aside a little of the candy for sprinkling and then stir the remaining candy into the other 2 types of chocolate. Drop by teaspoons onto a parchment lined tray. Top each with a drop of the milk and the white chocolates. Sprinkle with the candy and allow time to harden.

Candy Cane Cookies
Ingredients:1 cup butter - softened 1 cup confectioners' sugar 1 egg 1/2 tsp. peppermint extract 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1/4 tsp. salt 1 cup finely crushed candy canes 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
Directions:Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. In a large bowl, with an electric beater on medium speed, cream the butter and confectioners' sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and the peppermint and vanilla extracts and beat until well blended. Gradually add the flour and salt; mix well. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and chill for 1 hour. Coat two baking sheets with non-stick cooking spray. In a shallow bowl, combine the crushed candy canes and the granulated sugar; mix well. Shape the chilled dough into 1-inch balls then roll each ball in the candy cane mixture; place on the baking sheets and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until browned. Immediately remove from the baking sheets and place on wire racks to cool.

Candy Crunch White Bark
Ingredients:1 pound vanilla-flavor candy coating3/4 cup crushed fruit-flavor candy canes
Line a baking sheet with foil; set aside. Heat candy coating in a heavy medium saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly until candy is melted and smooth. Remove from heat.
Stir in 1/2 cup of the crushed candy canes. Pour mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread mixture to about 3/8-inch thickness. Sprinkle with the remaining crushed candies.
Chill candy about 30 minutes or until firm. (Or, let candy stand at room temperature for several hours until firm.) Use foil to lift firm candy from the baking sheet; carefully break candy into pieces. Store tightly covered up to 2 weeks. Makes 1 pound (16 servings).

Jesus is the REASON for the season!
From the book of Luke:

2:7
And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

2:8
And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.

2:9
And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

2:10
And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

2:11
For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

2:12
And this [shall be] a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

2:13
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

2:14
Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

Candy Cane Craft Ideas

Candy Cane Reindeer
What do you need?1 12" pipe cleanerRibbon - Christmas ColorWiggley eyes 4mm or 5mm1 1/4" red pom-pomScissors, glue
Loop the pipe cleaner underneath the curved end of the candy cane. Twist until it's nice and tight. Spread the ends apart to form the antlers. Glue the eyes and nose in place. Decorate with the ribbon around the reindeer's neck :)

Candy Cane Candle
What do you need?1 small round candleEnough candy canes to go around the candle.*** Canes need to be same height as candle ***GluePretty Christmas Ribbon
Glue each of the candy canes to the candle until the candle is completely covered.
Decorate with Christmas ribbon and bow :)

Spy Secret Agent Birthday Party

2009-11-30T23:50:00.000-08:00

Secret Agent Party

Secret Agent Institute Nancy Drew, Kim Possible, Alias, Spy Kids, Inspector Gadget, Men in Black, 007, James Bond, Get Smart, Agent 99

The training starts when your guests arrive and receive a special agent spy kit and will learn the art of disguise, crack codes, conduct surveillance operations and have a fantastic time learning the secrets of the spy world.

Spy Kids InstituteParty Package for 8 children
*1.5 hours of Unique and Fun Training Activities in the form of Party Games, Crafts & Top Secret Activities
*Two Agent Party Hosts
*Detective Decorations
*Spy Kit for Each Child (Favor Bags)
*Individual Photos for each guest (Agent ID Badge) Contact us to start the mission!

Extra Supplies, Cake, Cake Plates & Cups, Invitations, Piñata, Tables and Chairs

Age Suggestion is 7 & up. Younger children will need the assistance of an adult with many of the activities.

OUR THEMES
Arty Party . Baby 1st Birthday . Baby Gym . Ballet . Barnyard Blast . Beach Party . Beading Blast . Boys Sleepover . Build a Friend . Butterfly Madness . Candyland . Character Party . Chef’s Special . Circus Circus . Cowboy Hoedown . Dancing Divas . DJ Dance Party . Fabulous 50’s . Fairy Dreams . Fashion Fab . Gameland . Garden Kids . Girl Scouts . Glamour Gal . Hawaiian Festival . Indiana Jones Adventure . Jungle Mania . Make-over Magic . Party Girlz . Pirate Party . Pop Star . Pretend Sleepover . Princess/Prince . Road Rally . Secret Agent/Spy . Scrapbooking . Slumber Girlz . Spa Day . Special Forces/Soldier . Sports Fun . Super Hero . Tea Party Classic . Teddy and Me Tea . Tie Dye Flashback . Under the Sea

DON'T SEE WHAT YOUR LOOKING FOR? NO PROBLEM, WE'LL CREATE A THEME AND ACTIVITIES FOR YOUR EVENT!

Agaperabba Entertainment(626) 692-4918 Email us at: Agaperabba@msn.com

Edible Play Dough Recipes

2009-11-20T16:21:00.000-08:00

Edible Play Dough Recipes

Peanut Butter/Graham Cracker Play Dough
Equal amounts of Peanut Butter and Marshmallow Cream
Graham Crackers
First, have the children wash their hands before beginning so they can safely lick their fingers during this project. Allow children to crumble up Graham Crackers into crumbs, then set these aside. Let them have just a little touch of the Marshmallow Cream and a little touch of peanut butter to feel the different textures and to lick off their fingers. Mix the peanut butter and Marshmallow Cream together and have the children notice the change in texture. Cover surface area with wax paper or use a breadboard, let children make into shapes. Roll shapes in Graham Cracker crumbs, then eat!Storage: When not using, MUST be stored in an airtight container.

Kool-Aid Play Dough
1 cup flour1 cup water
1/2 cup salt
3 teaspoons Cream of Tartar
1 package Kool-Aid Mix (any flavor of unsweetened)
1 tablespoon cooking oil
Mix dry ingredients together in a large saucepan. Slowly add water mixed with oil and stir over medium heat until mixture thickens to dough. Turn out onto a heatproof bread board or counter top and knead until cool enough for children to handle. Dough will be the color of the Kool-Aid mix and will smell like the Kool-Aid mix. (Can be stored in a tightly covered container for up to six months) Jell-O Play Dough 1 cup flour1/2 cup salt1 cup water1 tablespoon oil2 teaspoons Cream of Tartar1 (3-1/2 oz.) package "unsweetened" Jell-O
Mix all ingredients together and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until consistency of mashed potatoes. Let cool and knead with floured hands until dry.Storage: This recipe needs to cool completely "before" storing it in an airtight container!Note: The items made from this play dough recipe can be painted when they are dry.

Oatmeal Play Dough
1 part flour
2 parts oatmeal1 part water
Mix ingredients together and form into shapes.
Note: The items made from this play dough recipe can be painted when they are dry.

Peanut Butter Play Dough
one 18-oz. jar creamy peanut butter
6 tablespoons honey
3/4 cup non-fat dry milk
Mix ingredients together, using varying amounts of dry milk for desired consistencies. Knead it with fingers, forming into desired shapes, adding other foods like M&M's or peanuts for eyes, mouths, etc. Great fun!
Storage: When not using, MUST be stored in an airtight container.

Cream Cheese Play Dough
8 oz. package of cream cheese
1/2 cup non-fat dry milk
1 tablespoon honey crackers or bread slices
Combine cream cheese, milk and honey in a bowl and mix until well blended. Mold sculptures on was paper.Storage: Unused portions
MUST BE STORED in an airtight container and kept refrigerated! Because cream cheese is perishable, use the expiration date on the cream cheese package as your guide for how long you can keep this play dough.Note: The shapes can then be placed on crackers or bread slices, decorated with edibles (celery or carrot slivers, raisins, dried fruit pieces, nuts, or seeds for a healthy snack ... then eat!

Enjoy! http://www.agaperabba.com/

Lincoln's Thanksgiving Proclamation

2009-11-20T14:41:00.000-08:00

Lincoln's Thanksgiving Proclamation
Abraham Lincoln
It is the duty of nations as well as of men to own their dependence upon the overruling power of God; to confess their sins and transgressions in humble sorrow, yet with assured hope that genuine repentance will lead to mercy and pardon; and to recognize the sublime truth, announced in the Holy Scripturesand proven by all history, that those nations are blessed whose God is the LORD.

We know that by His divine law, nations, like individuals, are subjected to punishments and chastisements in this world. May we not justly fear that the awful calamity of civil war which now desolates the land may be a punishment inflicted upon us for our presumptuous sins, to the needful end of our national reformation as a whole people?We have been the recipients of the choicest bounties of heaven; we have been preserved these many years in peace and prosperity; we have grown in numbers, wealth and power as no other nation has ever grown.But we have forgotten God. We have forgotten the gracious hand which preserved us in peace and multiplied and enriched and strengthened us, and we have vainly imagined, in the deceitfulness of our hearts, that all these blessings were produced by some superior wisdom and virtue of our own. Intoxicated with unbroken success, we have become too self-sufficient to, feel the necessity of redeeming and preserving grace, too proud to pray to the God that made us.It has seemed to me fit and proper that God should be solemnly, reverently and gratefully acknowledged, as with one heart and one voice, by the whole American people. I do therefore invite my fellow citizens in every part of the United States, and also those who are at sea and those who are sojourning in foreign lands, to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November as a day of Thanksgiving and praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the heavens.

--Abraham Lincoln - October 3, 1863

Family fun - Visit a California Farm

2009-10-24T22:08:00.000-07:00

CALIFORNIA FARMS - Please call the farm ahead of time and check times and dates of availability! Happy Harvest!

Kern County (Bakersfield area)
Dries Farms - Apples and Raspberries 22710 Highline Road, Tehachapi, CA. Phone: 661-823-9829. Open: Wednesday through Saturday, 10 am to 5 pm; Closed Monday and Tuesday.
Happy Trails Family farm - pumpkins, summer squash, tomatoes, picnic area, petting zoo, farm animals, birthday parties, school tours, events at your location (call for info)20348 Orchard Street, Tehachapi, CA 93561. Phone: (661) 822-5800. Email: clhorvath@yahoo.com. Directions: And for a map to our farm, click here. Crops are usually available in August, September, October. Open: "See our website for current hours;". Payment: Cash, Check, Visa/MasterCard, Discover. (ADDED: November 15, 2008)
Hartnett Farm - follows organic methods, apples, apricots, peaches, plums, Cider mill (fresh apple cider made on the premises), and prepicked produce, school tours21850 Highway 202, Tehachapi, CA 93561. Phone: 661-822-4677. Email: hartnettfarm@yahoo.com. Directions: Exit Tehahcapi 202 from Hwy 58, turn right on Valley Blvd which becomes Hwy 202. Follow Hwy 202 about 6 miles. Hartnett farm will be on the left side, long white fence and sign post in front of orchard. And for a map to our farm, click here. Crops are usually available in September, October, November. Open: Sundays 11am to 6pm Cherries: June 10th through June 30th. Plums: August Peaches: August We follow organic methods, but are not yet certified. Payment: Cash, Check. U-pick or we pick; six varieties of apples. U-press cider.
Knaus Ranch - apples, prepicked produce, gift shop, snacks and refreshment stand, restrooms, picnic area, school tours19042 Cherry Lane, Tehachapi, CA 93561. Phone: 661-822-4142. Email: ronnie@knausappleranch.com. Directions: From Bakersfield ca. take the 58 east to Tehachapi Ca. take the first exit (202 and correctional inst. exit) pass 2 traffic lights and one stop sign and we are just to the right passed the stop sign ( Tucker road and Cherry Lane) From L.A and Palmdale take the 14 north to Mojave and the 58 west to Tehachapi and it will be the 3rd exit (202 and correctional institution exit). And for a map to our farm, click here. Crops are usually available in September, October. Open: See our website for current hours. September 19th through October 31st until all the apples are gone. Payment: Cash, Check. We have U pick or We pick Apples (Red and Golden Delicious) ;jam's ; jelly's ; butter's ;crafts, apple peelers ;apple chip's and much much more. We accommodate large groups and school's and plenty of parking. (UPDATED: August 18, 2008)
Kolesars' Apples - apples, cherriesPhone: 661-945-9027. Directions: corner of Highline and Casey Drive, Tehachapi, CA. Five varieties of apples at our u-pick orchard. July 1,2,&3 open to pick cherries 9-4.
MaryAnn's Country - figs18940 Palm Avenue, Bakersfield, CA, 93314. Phone: 661-589-4435. Email us at: maryann@maryannscountry.com. We have a petting zoo environment, goats, rabbits, chickens, doves, pigeons, horses, dogs, cats, butterflies, etc. We also have several carriages and wagons that we give rides on...we pull these wagons and carriages with BIG BEAUTIFUL BLACK PERCHERON draft horses. We have a picnic area and room enough to park a large R.V. We open at 8:00 a.m. Monday to friday, close at dark. Saturday, open at 9:00 am to --close at dark. Sunday open after church 1 p.m.---close at dark..
Murray Family Farm - Strawberries, Asparagus, Sweet Cherries (17 varieties), Apricots, Apriums, Blueberries, Blackberries, Yellow and White Nectarines, Plums and Pluots, Summer Veggies, Sweet Corn, Melons, Heirloom Tomatoes, Asian Pears, Apples, Pumpkins and Gourds, Winter Veggies, Mixed Citrus, Oranges 6700 General Beale Road, Bakersfield, CA 93307. Phone: 661-330-0100. April – May: Strawberries, Asparagus April – July: Sweet Cherries (17 varieties) May – July: Apricots, Apriums May – Aug: Blueberries, Blackberries May – Oct: Yellow and White Nectarines May – Oct: Plums and Pluots May – Oct: Summer Veggies May – Oct: Sweet Corn, Melons June – Oct: Heirloom Tomatoes September – Nov: Asian Pears September – Jan: Apples October – Nov: Pumpkins and Gourds Nov – April: Winter Veggies Nov – July: Mixed Citrus All Year: Oranges
Just click here to see the recipe!
Los Angeles

5 Star Ranch - follows organic methods, cherries40109 90th St. West, Leona Valley, CA 93551. Phone: 661-270-9101. Email us at: dan@5starranch.com. Directions: From Los Angeles: Interstate 5 North to Hwy 14 North Exit Palmdale Blvd. Go west 10 miles to 90th St. West Turn left to 40109. Click here for a map to our farm. We are open June. Our hours are: Saturday and Sunday 8am to 1pm until picked out. We follow organic methods, but are not yet certified. We have Bing and Rainier cherries!
A BarnYard Party.com - pony rides, farm animals, birthday parties, school tours, events at your location (call for info)We Come To Where The Party Or Event Is, Any Where In California. Phone: 562 394 7456. Email: ponypals4@earthlink.net. Open: All year. We can do church and school events any day of the week. We will soon have wagon rides with our pony. We dress ponies for each holiday. Payment: Cash, only. animals have been in movies. we will take money orders for deposit and cash at the party or event. Thank You!
Al-Salam Farms - poultry3980 Whittier Blvd., Los Angeles, CA. Phone: 323-267-1857. Government authorized Halal. It is zabihah halal. You can pick your own chicken and have it hand slaughtered. (Note: Eewww! Some things I don't wanna see.. But, I guess it's better than store bought. )
Amber's Cherry Farm - cherries, snacks and refreshment stand, restrooms, picnic area9300 Leona Avenue, Leona Valley, CA 93551. Phone: 661-270-1919. Email us at: ambersfarm@adelphia.net. Directions: From Los Angeles: 5 freeway north to the 14 freeway north to Palmdale. Exit Palmdale Blvd. Turn left (west). Go 10 miles to Leona Valley and follow the orchard signs. : Click here for a map to our farm. Crops are usually available in May, June. Open: Friday, Saturday & Sunday 8am-6pm for general public. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday for private groups (e-mail for an appointment date: ambersfarm@adelphia.net ) Cherries: May 25-June 15 or until sold out. Access our website for harvest dates, maps, photos, etc or call us at 661-270-1919 for voice recording giving u-pick harvest dates. Dates will vary so call or check our web site before coming up! Payment: Cash, only.
Big John's Cherry Ranch - follows organic methods, apricots, cherries, 9258 Leona Avenue, Leona Valley, CA 93551. Phone: 661-270-9565. Email: upickfarm@dslextreme.com. And for a map to our farm, click here or see this page on their website! Crops are usually available in May, June, July. Open: Monday thru Friday 8 to 5; Saturday and Sunday 8 to 5; Important: You must call before you come to check on conditions for that day; There are times we May not be open in order for the fruit to ripen; We also May have sold out for the year. We follow organic methods, but are not yet certified. Payment: Cash, Visa/MasterCard. follows organic methods, Almonds, Lavender, Lilac, snacks and refreshments, restrooms. (UPDATED: May 10, 2008)
Brian Ranch Airport U-Pick Orchard - apples, Asian pears, apricots, cherries, nectarines, peaches and pears.34810 Largo Vista Road, Llano, CA, 93544. Phone: 661-261-3216. Phone: 661-261-3216. Email: felice@brianranch.com. Open: June 1 - October 15 on Saturday and Sunday from 8am to 2pm and other times by appointment. And if you want to also get off the ground, they have airplane flights available. Directions: One mile north of Pearblossom Hwy (SH 138), 25 miles east of Palmdale and 25 miles west of Victorville. Mailing address is PO Box 355, Llano. (near Pearblossom CA)
Bright Ranch - Bing cherries10600 Leona Avenue, Leona Valley, CA 93551. Phone: 661-270-0905. Email us at: briteranch@qnet.com . Directions: From Los Angeles: Freeway 5 north to Freeway 14(to Lancaster/Palmdale). Exit Palmdale Blvd. and turn left (west), approximately nine miles to 4-way stop sign (90th St. west), turn left, then make first right turn on Leona Avenue. Go two miles to Bright Ranch on left. Click here for a map to our farm. We are open June, August. Our hours are: seven days a week until picked out. 8 am to 4 pm. Please call for more up-to-date information. Cherries - early June. (Note, August 2005: they no longer grow Asian pears).
Cal Poly Pomona - strawberries4102 S. University Drive, Pomona, CA 91768. Phone: (909)869-4906. Email: dghostetler@csupomona.edu. Directions: Farm Store at Kellogg Ranch, Located just south of Temple Avenue; Use University Dr. or South Campus Dr. See this page for a map. Open: Monday to Sunday 10 am to 6 pm. Cal Poly Pomona will be starting their u-pick strawberries program this spring. It is adjacent to their Farm Store which offers a Trader Joes -like environment and many fruits/veggies/meats raised on the campus by students. In October they also have an amazingly huge pumpkin patch and festival. Payment: Cash, Credit cards.
The California Strawberry Festival - strawberriesStrawberry Meadows of College Park, 3250 South Rose Avenue, Oxnard, California. Phone: 888-288-9242. Each year strawberry lovers unite for the premier outdoor event tempting any appetite for fun. The California Strawberry Festival is Saturday and Sunday, May 14 and 15 from 10 am to 6:30 pm each day. Strawberry Meadows of College Park in Oxnard – California's Strawberry Coast. Admission: $12 Adults, $5 Youth (5-12), $8 Seniors (63+), $8 Active Military and Dependents with ID, Children 4 and under are free. Take the FREE Strawberry Express. Get off the freeway, park and ride our shuttle.

Cherry Pit Ranch - cherries, already-picked produce (of the pyo crop), restrooms, picnic area40164 90th Street West, Leona Valley, CA 93551Email: cherryfarmer@thecherrypitranch.com. Open: Weekdays from 9am to 5pm; Saturday and Sunday from 8am to 5pm; Cherries normally ripen the second week in June and last three weeks; Watch our website for exact ripening dates. Click here for current open hours, days and dates. Directions: See our website and click on the "Map & Address" index. Click here for a map and directions. Cherries normally ripen the first weekend in June and last only three weeks; Please email us and we'll email you a notification of ripening dates. Payment: Cash, only. (UPDATED: July 31, 2009)
Hobart's Cherries - Cherries40121 95th Street West, Leona Valley CA 93551. Phone: 661-270-0342. Call for current days and hours we will be open, please call our daily-updated answering machine at: As the oldest cherry orchard in the valley, we are proud to offer a variety of sweet and semi-sweet cherries from large, mature trees. Many of our trees are over 40 years old, and offer more cherries and shade than younger orchards. Amongst our 280 fruit trees, 70% are Bing sweet cherries, and the rest make up a wide mixture of varieties, including Royal and Queen Anne semi-sweets (great for pies and canning). No herbicides, insecticides, or pesticides have been used on our orchard. Please call before planning to visit, as our hours and days vary, Usually, we open at the end of May with sweet cherries, 8-5 on weekdays and 7-5 on weekends. We usually have cherries for 3-4 weeks, but may be closed certain days, in order to allow more cherries to ripen. On some of our busier days, we have had to close early, as all of the ripe fruit has been picked out. NOTE: Anyone picking more than 40 lbs of cherries can arrange a private appointment before or after normal business hours. The best way to do this is to leave a message on our answering machine, with your name and telephone number.
Jlfarms - cherries, 7651 Avenue U, Littlerock, CA 93543. Phone: 661-944-9903. Email: jifarms77u@hotmail.com. Open: Thursday and Friday 10am to 5pm Saturday and Sunday 8am to 5pm; Monday thru Wednesday by appointment. Directions: Los Angeles: Take the Golden State 5 Freeway, North to Antelope 14 Freeway (To Lancaster/Palmdale), take the Angeles Forest Freeway exit toward Pearblossom highway Stay straight on Pearblossom for 5 miles, turn right onto 138 Freeway, turn left onto 75th Street (2.8 miles), turn right onto E Avenue U. Click here for a map and directions. Payment: Cash, only. UNFORTUNATELY, the cherries are ripening slower than we thought they would. We will NOT be able to open on May 30th.We will certainly be open for picking Thursday June 4th thru the 4th of July weekend. Check website for updates or call. (UPDATED: May 27, 2009)
Jones Family Halloween Farm - corn (sweet), pumpkins, summer squash, snacks and refreshment stand, restrooms, picnic area, face painting, petting zoo, farm animalsGlendale, CA 91204. Phone: 8187951320. Email: mcshalloweenfarm@yahoo.com. Directions: We are in the middle of los Angeles right off the 5 freeway. And for a map to our farm, click here. Crops are usually available in September, October, November. Open: Saturday and Sunday 11 am to 6 pm starting September 12th ending Monday November 2nd. Halloween events start September 12th! Please Email to be placed on our waiting list. We follow organic practices, but are not seeking certification. Payment: Cash, only. Halloween pumpkin Picking Events, face painting, petting zoo, small picnic area. If you would like to visit one of our weekend events please contact the farm email! We limit our farm to 200 pumpkin pickers per day. (ADDED: December 30, 2008)
Kenny O Design - flowers, pumpkins, pumpkin patch- already gathered from the field, and prepicked produce, gift shop7353 Clybourn av, sun valley, CA 91352. Phone: 818-759-7159. Fax: 818-759-7166. Email us at: kennyodesign@sbcglobal.net. Directions: 5 freeway north to Sunland Blvd south to Valerio make left to Clybourn av. we are located the corner of Valerio and Clybourn And for a map to our farm, click here. Crops are usually available in October. Open: Tuesday thru Sunday 9 am to 5 pm Friday open till 7 pm Sunday hours are 10 am to 4 pm call for extended holiday hours October thru December pumpkin patch is open October 6 thru October 31 flower shop and nursery are open year round. cut flowers and arrangements available year round Payment: Cash, Check, Visa/MasterCard, AmEx. tropical plants, bedding plants, banana trees, hanging baskets, indoor and outdoor plants
NorthSide U Pic em Sweet Cherries - cherries, restrooms9729 Northside Drive, Leona Valley, CA 93551. Phone: 661-270-1290. Email us at: fluhartys@adelphia.net. Directions: From Los Angeles, to the 14 Antelope Valley Freeway, Palmdale Blvd., west for 10 miles. Right on 90th Street West to Northside Drive. And for a map to our farm, Click here. Click here for picking updates. Crops are usually available in June. Open:
Rhodes Orchard - cherries 10600 Leona Ave, Leona Valley, CA 93551-7307. Phone: (661) 270-1569. They have Ranier, sour pie, and Bing cherries.
Sky Meadow Farms - No pesticides are used, apples, apricots, cherries, peaches, already-picked produce (of the pyo crop), restrooms, picnic area, farm animals, school tours11212 Elizabeth Lake Road, Leona Valley, CA 93551. Phone: 661 270 9524. Open: Saturday And Sundays Only, from 9 am to 5 pm. - BE SURE TO CALL BEFORE YOU GO - AND SPEAK TO A LIVE PERSON - see the note below. Click here for current open hours, days and dates. Directions: Take the Antelope valley freeway 14 north Exit Palmdale Boulevard West keep going west till it changes to Elizabeth Lake Road Just 1 mile past 90th Street West Left hand side. Click here for a map and directions. Cherries - June Apricots -June - July Apple - August - November Peaches - September - October. We do not use pesticides on the crops. Payment: Cash, Check. We also sell Firewood for camping, Barbequing, Smoking, and winter supply for heating. Oak fruit woods and Pine. (ADDED: July 02, 2009)A visitor writes on September 17, 2009: "We visited this farm this past Sunday (9/13/09) and they are NOT open! Your website, their website and their phone all say they are open but when we got there, we were told the crop was not good this year and no one was allowed to pick. Please save others the unnecessary and frustrating drive with kids! Thank you!"
Tyler Family Farm - follows organic methods, peaches, and prepicked produce18245 Lancaster Road, Lancaster, CA 93536. Phone: 661-724-1735. Email: chuckwt@yahoo.com. Directions: We are located 4 miles west of the Calif. Poppy Reserve. From Lancaster at Hwy 14 take Avenue I, West appx. 22 miles (Avenue I becomes Lancaster Road at 120th Street West). From Hwy 5 take Hwy 138 East for appx. 25 miles to 170th Street West (look for Calif. Poppy Reserve sign), turn South for appx.2 3/4 miles(170th St. West ends at Lancaster Rd.) Turn West on Lancaster Road for 1 1/4 miles. And for a map to our farm, click here. Crops are usually available in September, October. Open: 8am to 6 pm, 7 days a week during harvest. Harvest runs from late September through mid Oct. We have a orchard of 2200 dwarf Sprauge Last Chance peach trees, all picking is from the ground, no ladders needed. We follow organic methods, but are not yet certified. Payment: Cash, only.
Villa del Sol Sweet Cherry Farms - cherries, snacks and refreshment stand, restrooms, picnic area6989 Elizabeth Lake Road, Leona Valley, CA 93551. Email us at: info@upickcherries.com. Directions: 14 Freeway to Palmdale Blvd., west til it turns into Elizabeth Lake Road. At corner of Elizabeth Lake Road and Godde Hill Road. And for a map to our farm, Click here. Open: Monday to Friday 8am to 5pm Saturday and Sunday 8am to 6pm Payment: Cash, Check, Visa/MasterCard, Discover, AmEx.
Windy Ridge Cherries - Cherries9811 Leona Avenue, Leona Valley, CA 93551. Phone: 661-270-9106. Click here for a map. You are welcome to call to find out about cherries, weather and orchard opening dates. Email at wrcherries@antelecom.net . We will look forward to your visit.
Yingst Ranch - U-pick and pre-picked stone and tree fruit including apricots, peaches, plums, pears, apples, and persimmons35349 80th Street East, Littlerock, CA, 93543. Phone: 661-944-2425. Open: June 15-October 30, 8am-5pm. Closed Mondays. Directions: From Pearblossom Hwy in Littlerock (CA Route 138) North on 80th St approx 1,000 feet. First ranch on left side of street. 8 miles east of Palmdale.
Youngblood Farms - apples, peaches7624 East Avenue U, Littlerock, CA 93543. Phone: 661-944-5823. Fax: 661-947-0087. Email: youngbloodfarm@mail.com. Open: Please call the farm for an appointment at 661-944-5823. Directions: Highway 138 to 75th Street East head North to Avenue U to 7624 East Avenue U, Littlerock, Ca. 93543. Click here for a map and directions. Harvest starts around August for the peaches and September for the Apples. Payment: Cash, only. Look forward to seeing you!. (ADDED: June 27, 2009) (UPDATED: September 13, 2009)
Leona Valley has many more cherry orchards listed on this map.- The area even has its own website. Cherry Information Hotline (24 Hours): (661) 266-7116. U-Pic Orchards are generally open June through July. Sweet cherries should be available for picking during the first week of June. Orchards will begin opening May 28th to June 4th. Cherry Parade is usually early to mid June (check their website)
Do you know of any other pick-your or so of Los Angeles? If you do, tell me about them using the Feedback form! Thanks!!!!!
Orange County
- pumpkins, strawberries5380 3/4 University Drive, Irvine, California 92612. Phone: 949-653-2100. Fax: 949-653-9050. Email us at: Tanaka Farms - Strawberries, pumpkins and other vegetables and fruits. Corn maze. Guided wagon ride around the farm5380 3/4 University Drive, Irvine, CA, 92612. Phone: 949-653-2100 or 949-653-9050. Email: TanakaFarms@aol.com. Directions: 2 miles north of I-5 and I-405 interchange, take I-405 to University Dr - South to Strawberry Farms Rd on corner. Click here for a map to our farm. and another map is here. We are open for summer hours weekdays 9am-6pm weekends 9am-5pm produce stand Tour hours Weekends 9:30am, 11am, and 1pm. Weekdays by reservations 714-968-6588 Then Mid-March through October 31st., Monday through Friday 9am to 5:30pm, Saturday & Sunday 9am to 5pm. Open again Thanksgiving Weekend for Christmas Trees. The produce stand is open all year around seven days a week 9 am to 5 pm. 2006 strawberry prices: $12 per person per basket and free for 2 and under (but they don't get a basket). We also have CSA fundraiser available (UPDATED: July 06, 2008) Comments from a visitor on August 8, 2008: "I took my husband & son to Tanaka Farms for their "Pick-your-own- strawberries" we went on a guided wagon tour that included several stops to taste fresh picked produce from their farm, we then had 15 minutes to pick and eat as many strawberries as we could. Our 1 1/2 year old son LOVED it. Sure they were the most expensive basket of strawberries ($13 per basket) my husband or I had ever purchased, but those pictures were priceless !! They also offer a Watermelon tour which we intend to go do as well."
Riverside County
Cali-Dragon Farm - Follows organic practices, corn (sweet), pumpkins, 2308 Washington Street, Riverside, CA 92506. Phone: 626-589-7327. Fax: 909-948-5903. Email: ninh.andy@gmail.com. Open: 9am to 6pm from 09/20/2009 to 11/24/2009. Directions: take 60 FWY to 91 WEST. Exit Madison Avenue ; Turn left and go straight until the end of road which becomes Victoria Avenue , Turn left on Victoria. Turn right on Washington Street, We are on your right hand side after the house. Click here for a map and directions. Pumpkins (Mid September to November 2009; Corn Mid September; Sugar Cane (February 2010), zucchini (November 2009), cucumber (may-November 2010). We follow organic practices, but are not yet certified. Payment: Cash, only. (ADDED: September 19, 2009)
Temecula Berry Co - blueberries, Honey from hives on the farm, and prepicked produce, snacks and refreshment stand, restrooms, school tours39700 Cantrell Road, Temecula, CA 92591. Phone: 951 225-5552. Email: mike@temeculaberryco.com. Directions: From I-15 East on Rancho California Rd Left on Butterfield Stage Left on La Serena Right on Walcott. Straight on Walcott for 1 mile which turns into Cantrell Road or the farms entrance. From there just follow the signs. Click here for a map and directions. Crops are usually available in May, June. Open: U - Pick blueberries on Saturday and Sunday from 8am to 6pm Farm fresh blueberries sold 7 days a week. May 10 to July 6. Payment: Cash, Check. Blueberries, Strawberries and honey sold 7 days per week. U-pick on Saturday and Sunday, or by appointment for your group. Drop by for a great time with the kids. See you soon--Temecula Berry Co. (ADDED: April 18, 2008)
Providence Farm - follows organic methods, cherries, grapes, pears, peaches, Honey from hives on the farm, and prepicked produce, gift shop, restrooms, picnic area, farm animals, birthday parties40376 Brookside Avenue, Cherry Valley, CA 92223. Phone: (951) 845-1210. Fax: (9510 845-1210. Email: mycherryfarm@yahoo.com. Directions: From Los Angeles, take either the 60 Freeway East or the 10 Freeway East. Exit off the 10 Freeway on Beaumont Avenue. Turn left and head north on Beaumont. Turn right on Brookside Avenue. From Palm Springs, take the 10 Freeway West and exit onto Highland Springs Blvd. Turn right and travel north on Highland Springs Blvd. until you reach the country club. Turn left onto Brookside Avenue. And for a map to our farm, click here. Crops are usually available in June, July, August, September. Open: Saturdays and Sundays, 10am to 5 pm. We follow organic methods, but are not yet certified. Payment: Cash, only. We are a small, family owned farm. We sustainably grow wall of our crops and never use any chemicals. Weeds are controlled with our sheep and pests with natural predation. We also harvest and sell Asian pears, Shiro plums, Meyer Lemons, English walnuts, Fuji apples, apricots, a variety of fresh and dry herbs, farm fresh eggs, honey, and smoking chips in our country stand. An admission fee applies during the cherry season. Hold your next private outdoor function at our farm. Below are examples of some of the events Providence Farm hosts. Parties - When you celebrate a birthday at Providence farm, you and your guests will enjoy a country ambience complete with hay rides for you and your guests and interaction with farm animals. Your reservation ($100 minimum) will provide you with use of two picnic tables for up to 15 guests for two hours. Additional guests $6 each. Extra options available include a clown, treat bags, fruit picking experience, and more. Please call or email to inquire. Special Events - Providence Farm provides you and your guests with a fun, relaxed country atmosphere. Providence Farm has hosted weddings, anniversary parties, and community barbecues, all customized. Let us know how we can help make your next event a memorable one.
Wohlgemuth's Cherry Orchard - ORGANIC cherries1106 E. Eleventh Street, Beaumont, CA, 92223. Phone: 951 845-1548 (No calls after 7pm Please). Email us at: cherrykol@msn.com. Usually June, 8 am to 4 pm, closed Mondays. Restrooms, sell strudel. Organic since the 1940's. Click here for Current Picking Conditions <
San Bernardino County
Greenspot Farms - Apples, other berries, pumpkins, Christmas trees-you choose and you cut, Christmas trees- you choose and we cut, Precut Christmas trees, Christmas wreaths and boughs, Mistletoe, Christmas-themed park, Santa appearances, Christmas decorations, saws provided, trees bagged, trees tied, pumpkin patch-pick in the field, pumpkin patch- already gathered from the field, train rides, corn maze, haunted corn maze, straw or hay bale maze, gift shop, snacks and refreshment stand, restrooms, picnic area, tractor-pulled hay rides, face painting, pony rides, petting zoo10133 Ward Wy., Mentone, CA 92359. Phone: 909 794-7653Directions: From I-10 in Redlands Take university off ramp go left to Lugonia right to Ward Wy. about 4 miles go right on Ward Wy. And for a map to our farm, click here. Crops are usually available in May, October, November, December. Open: Monday to Sunday 8 am to 6 pm. Haunted hayride last 2 weekends of October. Evenings only. Payment: Cash, Check.
Riley's Log Cabin Farm - U-Pick Apples, Raspberries, U-Press Cider, Hayrides, Bakery, BBX, Archery/Tomahawks, Living history & Hoedowns12201 South Oak Glen Road, Yucaipa, CA 92399. Phone: (909) 797-4061. Open: weekends from 10-4 from August through November (fall) and May-June (spring). We are closed on Mondays. See this page for hours and directions.
Rileys At Los Rios Rancho - follows organic methods, apples, chestnuts, pears, pumpkins, raspberries, Cider mill (fresh apple cider made on the premises), prepicked produce, gift shop, snacks and refreshment stand, restrooms, picnic area, petting zoo, birthday parties, weddings and wedding parties, school tours39611 Oak Glen Road, Oak Glen, CA 92399. Phone: 909-797-1005. Fax: 909-797-2207. Email: info@losriosrancho.com. Directions: From the I-10 Freeway Exit Yucaipa Blvd and go north Make a Left onto Oak Glen Road Follow Oak Glen Road to Los Rios Rancho. Click here for a map and directions. Crops are usually available in July, August, September, October, November, December. Open: 7 Days a Week, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Raspberries: Late July through 1st frost Apples: August - November Pumpkins: Late September - end of October Chestnuts: November - December Pears: August - September. We follow organic methods, but are not yet certified. Payment: Cash, Check, Visa/MasterCard, Discover. Supper Shows and Hoedowns Apple Butter Hoedown Currier and Ives Christmas Dinner and Dance Chuckwagon Supper Shows. Picking: Apples mid-August until they are picked out (call!); Berries - Available from mid-August until the end of September and Pumpkins - Available from the end of September through the end of October; U-Press Cider 12-4, (7 days a week). And, on weekends only: Horse-drawn Hayrides from 11-4, Little Seedling Ranch from 11 -4, Large cider press in operation from 11 - 2 and Packing House Tours at 1:00 pm. They have an annual Thanksgiving weekend Apple Butter Festival celebrates this fine old tradition, and we invite families to come up and share in it. We’ll have a hands-on demonstration of apple butter making the old-time (and slow!) way - outdoors in a big copper kettle; plus many more activities. There are restrooms, picnic, hiking, take credit cards, offer tours to groups, cider pressing, hay rides, petting zoo, and a great barbeque and gift shop. Also offer up public dinners with a live band that plays bluegrass. (Suggested by a visitor, ADDED: October 05, 2009) A visitor writes on October 05, 2009: "I love this place. I am addicted to it. I have to go back every fall." (UPDATED: May 28, 2008)
Riley's Farm - Apples, corn (sweet), olallieberries, cherries, pears, peaches, pumpkins, strawberries, cucumbers, flowers, raspberries, zucchini, pumpkin patch-pick in the field, and prepicked produce, tractor-pulled hay rides12261 S. Oak Glen Road, Oak Glen, CA 92399. Phone: 909-797-7534. Fax: 909-790-2552. Email us at: info@rileysfarm.com. And for a map to our farm, Click here. Crops are usually available in June, July, August, September, October, November. Open: Monday to Saturday 10 am to 5 PM Payment: Cash, Check, Visa/MasterCard, Discover, AmEx. Living History, Revolutionary War and Civil War field trips, Banquets, Dances, General Store. The cherries are at a different location/entrance; see this page. (UPDATED: August 09, 2009, from their website)
Roaring "L" Ranch - follows organic methods, apples, cherries, pears, peaches, restrooms, picnic area11124 Monte Vista Road, Phelan, CA 92371. Phone: 760 868-6826. Email: patlyons2002@yahoo.com. Directions: One block west of Johnson Road between Goss and Rancho. And for a map to our farm, click here. Crops are usually available in June, July, August, September, October. Open: Please call ahead for dates and time; you can email them to ask to be placed on their email update list. Cherries are usually ready by the first week in June; Asian Pears are available in September. We follow organic practices, but are not seeking certification. Payment: Cash, only. (ADDED: August 29, 2008) (UPDATED: June 04, 2009, from their email)
Snow-Line Orchards - Follows organic practices, blackberries, raspberries (Autumn, yellow), Cider mill (fresh apple cider made on the premises), gift shop, snacks and refreshment stand, restrooms, picnic area, petting zoo, farm animals, school tours, events at your location (call for info)39400 Oak Glen Road, Oak Glen, CA 92399. Phone: 909 797-3415. Fax: 909 797-3485. Email: Scott: scotth4@earthlink.net or Linda: linda@snow-line.com. Open: Open: 9:00 to 5:00 seven days a week mid - August to December. Directions: From Palm Springs area, West on I-10. Exit Beaumont Avenue, go North about 9 miles. From LA area, East on I-10, exit Oak Glen Road, turn left on Oak Glen Road. Go about 5 miles. From Riverside & Orange County 91 Freeway to 60 Freeway, exit Beaumont Ave. Go North about 9 miles. Snow Line is about one mile East of Oak Glen Village. We follow organic practices, but are not seeking certification. Payment: Cash, Check, Debit cards, Visa/MasterCard. Usually new berries ripen by Thursday and Friday. (UPDATED: August 11, 2009)
Star Ranch Winery - Grapes, Pistachios, and prepicked produce, restrooms, picnic area, petting zoo35355 Highway 18, Lucerne Valley, CA 92356. Phone: 760-248-2228. Email us at: deborahpost@sisp.net. Directions: From Interstate 15, exit Bear Valley Road (Victorville) follow until road runs out then turn right (Highway 18) follow approximately 15 miles until the Big Bear turnoff (there will be a 76 Gas Station) go right on the turnoff (Still is hwy 18). Star Ranch is located exactly 5 miles ahead on the right. Look for a long chain link fence with a stone and iron entryway. And for a map to our farm, Click here. Open: Call for information Payment: Cash, only. We will begin to harvest pistachios on November 1st. Growers of Pistachios and Grapes. Feeders of pet geese, ducks, chickens, dogs and cats. Restaurant coming soon.
Stetson Creek Ranch - Follows organic practices, apples, 31 Hill Ranch Road (forest Service Road 1n86), Angelus Oaks, CA 92305. Phone: (909) 389-9410. Alternate Phone: (714) 315-1277. Email: patti@stetsoncreekranch.com. Open: Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 10 am to 4; Other times for groups by appointment. Directions: From I-10, Redlands. Exit University Avenue and go North. At Lugonia Avenue go right. Lugonia becomes Highway 38 into the San Bernardino Mountains. 5 miles East of Angelus Oaks, look for Mile Marker 24.91. Our pull out is on the left (North) side of the highway. During our open hours we have a sign at Highway 38. From Big Bear, take highway 38 South. Passing Jenks Lake Road West, our turn out is the next one on the Right. Look for our sign during open hours. Click here for a map and directions. Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. We follow organic practices, but are not yet certified. Payment: Cash, only. Various heirloom varieties of apples. This orchard was planted approximately 100 years ago and those magnificent old trees are still producing huge amounts of juicy delicious apples! We have Romes, Red Delicious, Winesap, McIntosh, Stayman and other varities! Visit our website for map and directions. We are 2.2 miles down a dirt Forest Service road and it is rocky. The Forest Service recommends high clearance vehicles for this road. (ADDED: August 31, 2009)
Willowbrook Apple Farm - Pick your own Stayman Winesap Apples. Press your own cider. 12099 S. Oak Glen Road, Oak Glen, CA, 92399. Phone: 909-797-9484. Email: Willowbrookapple@aol.com. Open: Weekends October to November 12 10 am until dusk. Call for weekday morning picking. Sample apple butter. Enjoy a fresh dipped caramel apple. Browse fall home accents. Pet horse and chickens. Directions: Exit 10 Freeway at Live Oak/Oak Glen Road in Yucaipa. Head north on Oak Glen Road for 12 miles.
Wohlgemuth's Organic Cherry Orchard - ORGANIC, cherries1106 E. Eleventh Street, Beaumont, CA 92223. Phone: 951 845-1548 (No calls after 7pm Please). Email us at: cherrykol@msn.com.The cherry-picking season starts as early as the last week of April or as late as the last week of June. The season usually ends by the end of June. In 2005 they were finished as of July 2, 2005. BUT always check their website to find out what the picking conditions are! For a map or directions, click here! There are restrooms and a few benches under a tree. Varieties of cherries: Sweet Tartarian, Bing, Royal Ann, Windsor, Hardy Giant and Lambert.
San Diego County
Apple Lane Orchard - apples2641 Apple Lane, Julian, CA Phone: 760-765-2645
Bates Nut Farm - pumpkins, pumpkin patch-pick in the field, straw or hay bale maze, gift shop, snacks and refreshment stand, picnic area, tractor-pulled hay rides, face painting, pony rides, petting zoo15954 Woods Valley Road, Valley Center, CA 92082. Phone: 760-749-3333. Fax: 760-749-9499. Email us at: info@batesnutfarm.biz. Directions: We are located approximately 12 miles east of Escondido, CA. And for a map to our farm, Click here. Crops are usually available in January, February, March, April, May, June, August, September, October, November, December. Open: Bates Nut Farm is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm except Thanksgiving and Christmas. A 40+ year tradition, the Bates Nut Farm Pumpkin Patch is held October 1st -- 31st. Bates Nut Farm is open year round, except Thanksgiving and Christmas. We offer a wide selection of nuts, dried fruit, candy, homemade fudge and gourmet food items. We specialize in gift baskets and ship anywhere in the USA. You will enjoy our picnic area and farm zoo too! Payment: Cash, Check, Visa/MasterCa Road. In October, Family Fun on the Farm includes pony rides, bounce, face painting, BBQ, live music and more! Craft Fair October 1 & 2; Fine Arts Faire October 8 & 9; Scarecrow Contest on October 8; Costume Parade & Contest on October 29. Please check website for details and events throughout the year. A visitor writes (October 18, 2005): "I just wanted to RAVE about the fun my family had at the Bates Nut Farm Pumpkin Festival. There were so many activities, food was great and the pumpkins, WOW, so many to choose from. I have a 3 year old son and he did not want to come home, we will definitely return next year. Thanks for taking the time to have this website available to people. It helped us."
Calico Ranch - Fruit stand and U-pick apples and pears4200 Highway 78, Julian, CA, 92036. Phone: 760-765-3620 or 858-586-0392 or 858-586-0522. Email: cmybliss@aol.com. Open: Fri-Sunday 9 am to 5pm, September to Oct. More than 100 types of apples and pears on 30 acres. Directions: Located on Hwy 78 at Calico Ranch Road between San Ysabel and Julian. Located in Spencer Valley, 3 miles from Julian.
Carlsbad Strawberry Co. - Camarosa Strawberries. PO Box 479, Carlsbad, CA, 92018-0479. Phone: Matt Neehaus at 760-519-4154. Email us at: m1h2ouse@yahoo.com. Directions: Located on Hwy 5 at Cannon Road in Carlsbad. Open: U-Pick Fields open April 17th through June this year, perhaps as late as July 4th weekend. Open 7 days a week, 9:00 am to 6:00 pm to the general public. 2006 prices: $5.00 small bucket or $10.00 large bucket Free Educational Field trips, $3.00 each (small bucket) for Students, Girls Scouts & Brownies, Boy Scouts & Cub Scouts, Boys & Girls Clubs, Church Groups, and other qualified large groups. No admission charge for accompanying adults who do not wish to pick strawberries..
. 9308 Westhill Lane, Lakeside, CA 92040. Phone: 619-379-7092. Email us at: lcamberos@cox.net. Click here for picking updates. And for a map to our farm, click here. Crops are usually available in January, February, March, April, May, June, September, October, November, December. Open: Monday to Friday, by appointment only. Payment: Cash, Check.
Heritage Farms - U-pick pumpkins , U-Pick strawberries, farm market21345 San Pasqual Road, Escondido, CA. Phone: (760) 746-8822. Open: call for picking hours. Offers customers fresh organic produce, corn maze (in the Fall), petting corral, tortoise races, picnic area.
Julian Mining Company - follows organic methods, corn (sweet), olallieberries, pumpkins, raspberries, Cider mill (fresh apple cider made on the premises)4444 Orchard Land & Hwy 78, Julian , CA 92036. Phone: 909 499 1611. Email: julianminingcompany@aol.com. Directions: From San Diego take 78 East toward Julian. We are a located 3 miles east of Julian on Left hand side btw Orfila Winery and Spencer Valley School. Click here for a map and directions. Click here for picking updates. Crops are usually available in July, August, September, October. Open: Weekends throughout the fall and Christmas season; Call for times and availability 909 499 1611. Raspberries and Olallieberries July-October, Pumpkins October-November, U-Press Apple Cider September 15 pm to December 1, Corn June-October. We follow organic methods, but are not yet certified. Payment: Cash, Check. Julian Mining Company also offers various living history tours and field trips such as the California Gold Rush, Civil War Adventure, Native American tour, and Creation Science tours. For those that 'drop by' a bag of mining rough can be purchased and used at the extensive sluice box, Gold Panning trough, or 'rockers' to reveal gold and other semi-precious gems and minerals. Other activities include tomahawk throwing and archery.
Lake Sutherland Farms - U-pick blackberries and raspberries20625 Sutherland Dam Road, Ramona, CA, 92065. Phone: 760-788-4360. Email: tsunami105@aol.com. Open: Thurs, Friday, Saturday and Sun; Berry picking season is the month of August. Directions: Take Hwy 78 5 miles east of Ramona on the way to Julian. At intersection of Hwy 78 and Sutherland Dam Road, follow the signs that indicate "Lake Sutherland". (UPDATED: July 11, 2009)
MJ Ranch - Apples and Pears 1070 Farmers Road, Julian, CA, 92036. Phone: 760-765-2423. Many varieties of both apples and pears. No pesticides used on our Apples & Pears. Open: every Saturday and Sunday from 10-5, from Sept.10 until September 25. Directions. Prices: no admission charge. We provide 1 peck bags (roughly about ten pounds) for your fruit at $10.00 a bag (2005 prices) with no charge for entering or picking in the orchard.
Mountain Valley Ranch Pumpkin Patch - Christmas trees, Pumpkins, corn maze, petting zoo, hayrides, haunted house842 Hwy 78, Ramona, CA. Phone: 760-788-8703. Petting zoo with birds, calves, pigs and ponies. Large corn maze and take a hayride tour of the ranch. Open

Raven Hill Orchard- apples (many different varieties)1284 Julian Orchards Drive, Julian, CA 92036. Phone: (760) 765-2431. Open: . usually mid-August through October, possibly November, 7 days/week, 9am to 5pm. Email: ulsterboyeire@aol.com . A visitor writes on April 23, 2009: "I thought it was great. It's very casual, the owner is very friendly, and if there isn't a crowd, he'll give you a personal tour of the orchard. They do also sometimes sell fresh-squeezed apple cider. They appear to take cash only. Very friendly. The owner (Patrick Brady) told me that he is raising the trees organically. He is a sculpture artist originally from Ireland, and he has some of his work displayed at the entrance of the orchard. " (Suggested by a visitor, ADDED: April 23, 2009)
Lake Sutherland Farms - blackberries20625 Sutherland Dam Road, Ramona, CA. Phone: 760-788-9499. They also have a roadside stand with blackberries, U-pick, farm tours, black berries, blue berries, soaps & preserves, gifts/crafts.

Summer's Past Farm - herbs, pumpkin patch, corn maze, herbal soapmaking15602 Old Hwy 80, Flinn Springs, CA, 92021. Phone: (619) 390-1523. A visitor writes: "There is a lot to do for children like making a fairy garden, corn mazes, sweet pea mazes. There is also herb paper making, herb soap making, herbal oil, vinegar, and more in there class schedule, Very child friendly, coffee bar with pastries, fun, touristy, and wonderful animals everywhere. A shop for those who want to buy the harvested goodies.. "
Victoria's Garden - Strawberries, Watermelons, Pumpkins, Hay Rides, Maze13120 Willow Road, Lakeside, CA 92040. Phone: (619) 390-9571. U-Pick Strawberries and Barnyard Animals, Straw Play Area, Bounce Jump, Straw Horses, Picnic Areas, Pony Rides, Giant Slide, Farm Stand & Nursery. Open: 7 days a week, 10 am to 2 p.m. Monday through Thursday 10 am to 6 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
Wholesome Heritage Farms Pumpkin Patch - U-pick strawberries, follows organic methods, 21345 San Pasqual Road, Escondido, CA. Phone: 760-746-8822. Open year-round. Fresh organic produce, U-pick strawberries, corn stock maze (in the Fall), petting corral, tortoise races, picnic area. School and group tours welcome. $5 per person and includes a pumpkin. Open through October 31, noon-6 pm.
Weidners' Gardens - U-pick operation for flowers, plants, bulbs695 Normandy Road, Encinitas, CA, 92024. Phone: 760-436-2194 or 760-436-3681. Email: staff@weidners.com. Open: Monday to Sunday 9:30 - 5. Closed Tuesday. Winter . Open: 9:30-4:30. Workshops, farm tour, garden/nursery tour, ag gifts/crafts. Directions: I-5 to Leucadia Blvd. Exit, then east to Notmandy Rd at Piraeus St.
San Luis Obispo County
Avila Valley Barn - Apples, nectarines, olallieberries, peaches, pumpkins, Other fruit or veg, Precut Christmas trees, Christmas wreaths and boughs, Mistletoe, Christmas decorations, trees tied, pumpkin patch-pick in the field, pumpkin patch- already gathered from the field, straw or hay bale maze, and prepicked produce, gift shop, snacks and refreshment stand, restrooms, picnic area, tractor-pulled hay rides, petting zoo560 Avila Valley Drive, San Luis Obispo, CA 93402. Phone: 805-595-2810. Fax: 805-595-2810. Email us at: customer_support@avilavalleybarn.com. Directions: Coming north or south on Hwy 101 take the Avila Valley Drive exit and go west. Avila Valley Barn is located just past Ontario Rd on the right side. Parking available on property. And for a map to our farm, Click here. Open: seasonally from May through December, 9 am to 6 pm. Click here for picking updates. Payment: Cash, Check, Visa/MasterCard, Discover. We also grow and sell the following fruit: olallieberries, cherries, raspberries, strawberries, apricots, peaches, white peaches, nectarines, white nectarines, apriums, pluots, pears, gravenstein apples, gala apples, golden delicious apples, mutsu apples, jonagold apples, braeburn apples, fuji apples, empire apples, granny smith apples, laura red apples. We also grow and sell the following vegetables: tomatoes, sweet onions, summer squash, green beans, and winter squash. Anything we don't grow on our farms, we get from neighboring farms including broccoli, cauliflower, lettuces, potatoes, peppers, garlic, green onions, eggplant, green and red cabbages, carrots, leeks, brussel sprouts, fresh herbs, cilantro, parsley, and basil.Christmas tree varieties:PreCut varieties: Douglas Fir, Noble Fir. A visitor writes: Apple picking starts in September and pumpkins in October. The farm also offers a market, hay-bale maze, hot roasted corn harvested from its fields, and fresh-baked pies, including olallieberry and pumpkin pie. You can feed the goats, pigs, cow, ponies, ostrich, peacocks, turtle, etc... Hayrides for fruit picking and pumpkins too. A haybale maze for the little ones and one for the adults. Christmas trees already cut for sale. Nice clean restrooms. Open: They sell BBQ'd corn, fresh apple cider and great coffee.. A visitor writes on March 07, 2009: "While we haven't been recently, it's a real gem of the Central Coast. The staff is so friendly and helpful. The produce is wonderful! "
Blue Sky Gardens - ORGANIC, U-Pick blackberries, Pumpkin Patch with haunted house and corn maze, organic u-pick summer vegetables19505 Walnut Ave (Garden Farms), Atascadero, CA 93422. Phone: 805-438-5801. Email: bluesky@calinet.com. Blackberries in June. Halloween activities in October. Vegetables, June through October. Petting zoo with farm animals, fresh range eggs.
Cal Poly Fruit and Crops - apples, apricots, blackberries, blueberries, boysenberries, olallieberries, pears, peaches, pumpkins, raspberriesCalifornia Polytechnic State University Use the Highland Drive entance off of Hwy 1, San Luis Obispo, CA 93407. Phone: 805-756-2224. Email: orchardmanager@calpolyfruitandcrops.com. Directions: From Hwy 101 in San Luis Obispo, Take Highway 1 north toward Morro Bay, Right on Highland Drive, Follow the signs to the designated U-Pick area, Parking is free on weekends. And for a map to our farm, click here. Crops are usually available all year. Open: Saturdays 10am to 1pm Occasionally Wednesdays 3pm to 5pm Picking is available when the crops are ready. Please click here for for information on what's in season. Payment: Cash, Check. We have Satsuma Tangerines in the Winter months and Various Navel Oranges, blood oranges and other citrus for most of the year. We also have many varieties of prepicked avocados that change throughout the year.
Happy Grapes - U-Pick operation Thompson Grapes13005 Salinas Road, Atascadero, CA, 93422. Phone: 805-462-0347. Email: RevPClaire@aol.com. Open: Sept/October weekends. Call first. Small weddings on site. Directions: From Paso Robles: Take Hwy 101 South to Santa Barbara Rd exit, turn left (west) on Santa Barbara. Right on El Camino Real, left on Santa Clara Road, left on Salinas Road.
Hollyhock Farms - ORGANIC, U-pick. Veggies, fruits and flowers200 Hollyhock Lane Templeton, CA, 93465. Phone: 805-239-4713. Email: hollyhoc@calinet.com. Open: All year for farm stay; June- December for crops and flowers. Observe a fully functioning organic farm. Hands-on farm experience if desired. Wine tasting. Farm stay accommodates 2 people with option to have children camp on front lawn. Breakfast included in cottage rental. Car shows, wine festival. Small number of rare and unusual farm animals. Directions: Highway 101 to Templeton. Exit on Vineyard. Proceed east and take El Pomar Road to Hollyhock Lane (approximately 4 miles). Turn left onto Hollyhock Lane and drive about one mile.
Jack Creek Farms - Apples, beans, carrots, cucumbers, flowers, olallieberries, plums, pumpkins, tomatoes6 miles West of 101 on Highway 46 West (State Route Marker 16) West of Paso Robles, CA, Templeton, CA 93465. Phone: Phone: 805-238-3799. Email us at: info@jackcreekfarms.com . Directions: Our farm is in rural Templeton, California. We are located approximately 6 miles west of Highway 101 on Highway 46 West - midway between Paso Robles and Cambria. Our gate is at Highway marker 16. Click here for a map to our farm. We are open July, August, September, October, November. And our hours are: We are open seasonally July through early November. Please check our website for dates and hours of operation. Our 5th generation family farm is nestled in the coastal foothills of central California near the historic communities of Templeton and Paso Robles. We take great pride in that we grow all of the produce we offer at our farm store. We have demonstration gardens, an antique apple path and offer educational tours. We also have farm animals on site and an antique tractor display. Visit our recently planted u-pick olallieberry patch. U-pick old-fashioned flower varieties throughout the summer and u-pick pumpkin patch in the fall. Also u-pick heirloom apples, plums and some summer vegetables in season. We are pleased to offer you fresh and wholesome foods, as well as taste of country each time you stop by. Please check out our website for hours of operation and map.
McCall Farm B&B - apples, avocados, peppers, plums, tomatoes, pumpkins6250 Santa Rosa Creek Road, Cambria, CA. Phone: 805-927-3140. Apples: mid August through October, Avocados: Year round, Peppers: mid August through October, Plums: July, Tomatoes: mid August through October, Oranges: Year round, Pumpkins. Email: mccallfarm@earthlink.net.
Santa Barbara County
Ballard Apple Farm and Seein' Spots Miniature Donkeys - Follows organic practices, apples, apricots, Fresh eggs, already-picked produce (of the pyo crop), restrooms, picnic area, pony rides, petting zoo, farm animals, school tours2599 Baseline Avenue, Solvang, CA 93463. Phone: 805-688-2275. Email: linda@seeinspotsfarm.com. Open: We are open Wednesday through Sunday from 10:00 to 4:00 all year long. Directions: We are located in the heart of the Santa Ynez Valley in beautiful Ballard. From highway 154 take the Ballard turnoff and follow Baseline Avenue about three miles. From Solvang going toward Santa Ynez turn left on Rufugio Road and left again on Baseline Avenue and we are about a half mile down on the right. You will see a red sign with donkeys out front. Drive up to the barn and park. Apricots: July Apples: September through December Eggs: All year long Our Miniature Donkey Petting Zoo and Kiddie Rides are available all year and we always have babies to play with!. We follow organic practices, but are not yet certified. Payment: Cash, Check. We are a family run miniature farm and we love to share our animals. We have Kiddie Rides for small children on our miniature donkeys and donkey hugs are always available to everyone!. (ADDED: October 12, 2009)
Quacken Farms - follows organic practices, pumpkins, walnuts, prepicked produce, gift shop, snacks and refreshment stand, restrooms, picnic area, pony rides, farm animals2921 Ontiveros Road, Santa Ynez, CA 93460. Phone: 805-688-3613. Email: info@quackenfarms.com. Directions: Driving North from Santa Barbara, take Highway 154 North to Roblar. Turn left or West on Roblar, in a 1/4 mile at the fork in the road, veer left onto Ontiveros. We are 1/4 mile down on the right. Driving South from Santa Maria, take Highway 154 South to Roblar. Turn right or West on Roblar, in a 1/4 mile at the fork in the road, veer left onto Ontiveros. We are 1/4 mile down on the right. Click here for a map and directions. Crops are usually available in September, October, November. Open: Saturday and Sunday, 10 am to 5 pm, please check our website for updated hours. Click here for current open hours, days and dates. Opening September 27th through November. We follow organic practices, but are not seeking certification. Payment: Cash, only. Fun for the whole family! We also offer a Toddlers Play Area and Country Store. Organically grown fresh fruits and vegetables: apples, walnuts, lettuce, carrots, squash, zucchini, cucumbers, radishes. Fresh flowers in season. (ADDED: September 08, 2008)
Restoration Oaks Farm - Blueberries1980 US Highway 101, Gaviota, CA. Phone: 805-686-5718. Alternate phone: 805-683-2143. Email: cjacks@restorationoaksranch.com. Open: Call for availability and hours. Directions: Email, or call or see this page. A visitor writes on May 26, 2009: " I've been driving by and seeing their huge Pick Your Own Blueberries sign for months but I have not gone there yet. I just called to confirm they are open and my daughter and I plan to go this weekend and pick blueberries" (Suggested by a visitor, ADDED: May 26, 2009)
Ventura County
Pete's Pumpkin Patch - corn (sweet), herbs/spices, melons, pumpkins, school toursExit Off 101 Freeway At Central Avenue, Camarillo, CA 93010. Phone: 805-207-3363. Alternate Phone: 805-983-8589. Fax: 805-988-9452. Open: Open 7 days a week; 9am to Dark. Directions: Exit 101 freeway at Central Avenue look North/East to the Hillside. Can't miss us. Click here for a map and directions. Payment: Cash, Check, Debit cards, Visa/MasterCard, Discover, AmEx. (ADDED: September 29, 2009)
Underwood Family Farms is a pick-your-own grower of a wide variety of fresh vegetables and fruits in Ventura County, California. They offer a wide variety of services and activities tailored for the entire family, including pick-your-own produce, birthday parties at their Farm Animal Center, school tours, gift baskets (shipped anywhere in the U.S.), and the Fall Harvest Festival in October. You can also visit them at one of their Farm Markets, located in Somis or at Tierra Rejada in Moorpark, where you can purchase their field-fresh produce and say hi to their farm animals. Or visit them at one of the 12 Certified Farmers' Markets that they participate in throughout the week. NOTE: There is admission fee to pick, so be sure you read this page on Underwood's website.
Underwood Family Farms - Somis5696 Los Angeles Avenue Somis, CA 93066Phone: 805-386-4660Fax: 805-386-3994-6037Farm Market, Animal Center, Gift Baskets, Specialty Produce
Underwood Family Farms - Moorpark (Tierra Rejada)3370 Sunset Valley Road (Formerly Moorpark Road)Moorpark, Ca 93066Phone: 805-529-3690Fax: 805-529Farm Market, Animal Center, Pick Your Own Produce, Plant Center, Fall Harvest Festival (September 27-October 31), Fall Festival Craft Fair (September 27 & 28), Wagon Rides, Birthday Parties, Educational Tours
Fall Harvest Festival at Tierra Rejada Family Farms, .Pick-your-own pumpkin in our HUGE pumpkin patch, Clydesdale-drawn hay rides, antique and new farm equipment and machinery displays, fun photo ops, GIANT PUMPKIN display, and pick-your-own fruits and vegetables. Arts & Crafts, Baby animal petting and grooming corral, Pony rides.

Farmers Markets, Farm Stands and Farmer's Markets (NOT pick-your-own, unless they are also listed above)
San Bernardino County
Diamond I Ranch - Fresh local eggs, Fresh eggs14715 Peyton Drive, Chino Hills, CA 91709. Phone: 909-268-9876. Email: jenbi10@aol.com. Open: 8:00am to 7:00pm; but call for appointment. Directions: Chino Hills on Peyton Dr between Euclyptus and Morning field. Payment: Cash, only. Free Range Organic Eggs Blue, Green Brown and White gathered daily from happy chickens. Call for an appointment to pick up your beautiful eggs. (ADDED: July 27, 2009)
Snow-Line Orchards - Follows organic practices, Baked goods, Preserves, jams, jellies, apples, blackberries, chestnuts, raspberries (Autumn, red), raspberries (Autumn, yellow), tomatoes, Cider mill (fresh apple cider made on the premises), gift shop, snacks and refreshment stand, restrooms, picnic area, petting zoo, farm animals, school tours, events at your location (call for info)39400 Oak Glen Road, Oak Glen, CA 92399. Phone: 909 797-3415. Fax: 909 797-3485. Email: scott@snow-line.com or linda@snow-line.com. Open: Open: 9:00 to 5:00 seven days a week mid - August to December. Directions: Palm Springs area, West on I-10. Exit Beaumont Avenue, go North about 9 miles. From LA area, East on I-10, exit Oak Glen Road, turn left on Oak Glen Road. Go about 5 miles. From Riverside & Orange County 91 Freeway to 60 Freeway, exit Beaumont Ave. Go North about 9 miles. Snow Line is about one mile East of Oak Glen Village. We follow organic practices, but are not seeking certification. Payment: Cash, Check, Debit cards, Visa/MasterCard. Antique shop. Apple cider mini donuts. (UPDATED: August 11, 2009)
Ventura County
Pete's Pumpkin Patch - Wide variety of seasonal, locally grown fruits and vegetables, school toursExit Off 101 Freeway At Central Avenue, Camarillo, CA 93010. Phone: 805-207-3363. Alternate Phone: 805-983-8589. Fax: 805-988-9452. Open: Open 7 days a week; 9am to Dark. Directions: Exit 101 freeway at Central Avenue look North/East to the Hillside. Can't miss us. Click here for a map and directions. Payment: Cash, Check, Debit cards, Visa/MasterCard, Discover, AmEx. (ADDED: September 29, 2009)

Farm Venues for Events
Ventura County
The Painted Pony Farm - petting zoo, weddings and wedding parties, school tours, events at your location (call for info)15315 Ojai Road, Santa Paula, CA 93060. Phone: 805-525-9820. Email: paintedponyfarm @gmail.com. Open: March 15 pm to October 31 Monday to Friday 10 am 2 pm Reservation are a must October open every Saturday 10 am to 4. Directions: Located 6 miles from Santa Paula and 9 miles from Ojai on highway 150. Click here for a map and directions. Payment: Cash, Check. (ADDED: September 01, 2009)

Fall Party Ideas

2009-10-02T00:56:00.000-07:00

Been working so hard, I've let my blog fall away at the wayside.

In the next few days I will have a good list of Fall party ideas and locations in Socal to have a great harvest.

Be ready! Keep your eyes open and come back soon!

Thanks for being so loyal :) and while you wait, check out our party tips of the day on Twitter @agaperabba

Agaperabba Entertainment

Phone Number Change!!

2009-09-07T18:16:00.001-07:00

Thanks for visiting our Blog! We wanted to let you all know that we've changed our phone number to: 626-692-4918

Please update your phone, email or phonebook!

Thanks so much and sorry for any inconvenience!

Agaperabba Entertainment

Independence Day!

2009-06-29T15:35:00.000-07:00

Enjoy the fourth of July in style

City of San Marino's Annual 4th of July Celebration 4 - 9pm Lacy Park,1485 Virginia Rd, San Marino (map) Ongoing game booths and bingo from 4 to 7 pm, a community parade at 5 pm, stage entertainment from 5:30 to 9pm and a fireworks display at approximately 9pm. The park's Virginia Road entrance opens at 7am. No entrance via St. Albans Road until 3pm. Guests may reserve areas using blankets, chairs and ropes. No stakes will be permitted in the ground. Wristbands must be purchased for the park festivities. Contact the city Recreation Department 626.403.2200.

FREE Sierra Madre 4th of July Celebration 10am – 4pm Memorial Park, 222 W. Sierra Madre Blvd, Sierra Madre (map) Celebrate with a parade, FREE Dixieland music, and outdoor games. The parade “where half the town marches and the other half watches,” starts at 10am followed by outdoor games and festivities in the park. The Nightblooming Jazzmen performing noon - 4pm; food booths and beer garden 10am - 4pm. More info: 626. 355.7394.

FREE Lakeshore Fun Firecracker Craft, 11am - 3pm 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena (map) Kids celebrate our nation's birthday by creating kid-safe firecracker decorations. No reservations required. Store closes at 4pm for the holiday.

West Covina Independence Day Celebration Edgewood Middle School 2 - 11pm 1625 W. Durness St. West Covina (map) A carnival, live music and, of course, fireworks for fun on the fourth also benefits the Muscular Dystrophy Association. This is the 19th annual celebration and the entrance fee to the carnival is only $1. Carnival lasts until 11pm with extra costs for rides & food. FREE live music 5 - 9pm with FREE fireworks afterwards. Make it a full day with a $4 pancake breakfast 8 - 11am @ Hurst Ranch, 1227 S. Orange Ave. More info: 626.939.8430

South Pasadena Festival of Balloons Parade, 11am Mission and Diamond Streets, South Pasadena (map) A Fourth of July parade and more for the whole family. Start with a 7am pancake breakfast at the Fire Dept. Parade open ceremonies at 10:30a.m; parade kicks off @ 11am. Gates open @ 5:30pm at the Southa Pasadena High School Field for the 9pm fireworks. Buy $7 tickets at the pancake breakfast or $10 tix at the gate. More info: 626.818.8000

Americafest 4th of July Celebration @ the Rose Bowl 2 - 9:30pm. Rose Bowl, 1001 Rose Bowl Drive, Pasadena (map) The Rose Bowl's 4th of July celebration in has kept the Star Spangled spirit flying for 83 years. The day combines a safe and entertaining family activity and the biggest and best fireworks show in Southern California.
The fun begins outside the stadium with food vendors, entertainment, crafts, exhibits and inflatable rides for kids outside the stadium starting at 2pm. The stadium gates open at 6pm with the Drum Corps International (DCI) Marching Music's Major LeaguesTM, presenting five of the nation's best Drum and Bugle Corps performing field shows and music at 7pm. At 9:05pm the fireworks show lights the night. The 30-minute show is choreographed and produced by world-renown Pyrospectacular.
General admission tickets are $13, children under age 7 are free. Preferred seating tix for adults and children: $25. Call 800.745.3000 for tickets, or use www.ticketmaster.com. Parking is $15.

Palisades Americanism Parade Old fashioned Independence Day Parade followed by entertainment and a fireworks display.When: July 4th, 2:00 parade, 7 pm entertainment, 9 pm fireworksWhere: Parade on Sunset Blvd. in Pacific Palisades between via de la Paz and Drummond St., Entertainment and fireworks at Palisades Charter High School.Info: www.palisadesparade.org

July 4th Fireworks Extravaganza, Marina Del Rey A traditional fireworks extravaganza over the main channel in Marina del Rey programmed to patriotic music broadcast over FM radio KXLU, 88.9 and relayed over loudspeakers in Chase Park. When: July 4, 9 p.m. Where: Chase Park, 13650 Mindanao Way (1 block west of Admiralty Way), Marina del Rey. Also viewable from
Fisherman's Village and Marina BeachCost: FreeInfo: 310-305-9545, http://www.visitmarinadelrey.com/sg/july_4/index.html

Mr. & Mrs. Muscle Beach, Venice BeachBody building pageant on the beach. When: July 4th, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., pre-judging 10 am, finals 1 pm Where: 1800 Ocean Front Walk, Venice BeachCost: Free to watch, $80 to competeSponsor: City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and ParksInfo: http://musclebeachvenice.com, 310-399-2775

Annual Vision Outside 4th of July Jazz and Blues Festival in Leimert ParkCelebrate the 4th of July at the Vision Theatre in Leimert Park with the rich cultural heritage of the diverse sounds of jazz and blues. There will also be children’s arts and crafts, face painting, delicious food available, and free watermelon.When: July 4, 1:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Where: Vision Theatre back lot, 3341 W. 43rd Pl., Los AngelesCost: FreeSponsor: City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural AffairsInfo: 213-202-5500, www.culturela.org

4th of July BBQ at the Aquarium of the PacificEnjoy the Aquarium at night and get a fish-eye view of the Queen Mary fireworks. Guests can also choose special combo tickets to enjoy admission to the aquarium plus an Independence Day B-B-Q buffet with home-style entrees hot off the grill and decadent deserts. When: July 4, 5:00 - 10:00 pm Dinner 6 - 8 pm, Aquarium opens at 9 amWhere: Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach, 320 Golden Shore, Long BeachCost: Aquarium Admission for the evening will be $11.95 for everyone after 5 pm. Regular admission is $20.95 Adult, $11.95 child 3-11, $17.95 seniors, Aquarium plus dinner $34 Adult, $27 Child. Advance reservations required for dinner.Info: 562-590-3100, www.aquariumofpacific.org

Long Beach Sea Festival July 4th Festival Festival activities from Belmont Pier to the Shoreline Marina with a view of the fireworks over the Queen Mary. There will be live music, BBQ and Beer Garden, boat rides, and reserved seats for fireworks viewing on the Belmont Veterans Memorial Pier. Marina Green off Pine Avenue and Shoreline Drive will host the Long Beach Car Show with live bands and art exhibits July 4th and 5th with a view of the fireworks. The Queen Mary herself is also a great place to view the fireworks if you get there early enough to beat the traffic and enjoy the street performers, karaoke and nightclub acts.When: July 4 noon to 10 pm at the Pier, Fireworks at 9:00 pm. Car Show July 4 and 5, entertainment 3-10 pm. Where: Car Show at Marina Green Park east of Shoreline Village, Party on the Pier 99-39th Place, Long Beach, CA 90803 Cost: $20 for Party on the Pier, Car Show TBDParking: Outdoor pay lots are at Shoreline Village and the Shoreline Marina (get ticket from parking machine). There’s a metered all-day lot at Alamitos Beach. Street meters are 9 am - 9 pm daily. Pay parking structures are available at the Aquarium, the Pike and the Convention Center. Pay lot at Belmont Pier. Red Passport buses run between downtown and Belmont Shore. Info: Party on the Pier, www.longbeachcarshow.com, www.queenmary.com

4th of July Celebration in San PedroLive music, U.S. military exhibits, tours of a Navy frigate, armed forces, and U.S. Coast Guard demonstrations, displays by the LA City Fire Department’s firefighting boat, and the Washington Artillery Reenactment group firing cannons along the coastline followed by fireworks.When: July 4, 12:00 noon – 10:00 p.m.Where: Cabrillo Beach, 3720 Stephen M. White Dr., San PedroCost: FreeInfo: 310-548-7401, www.laparks.org

Annual San Fernando Valley Independence Day Celebration A holiday celebration in the San Fernando Valley featuring music and other live entertainment, food, and fireworks. Take a swim in the 1.5-acre swim lake available for use during the day. When: July 4, 12:00 noon – 10:00 p.m. Where: Hansen Dam Recreation Area, 11770 Foothill Blvd., Lake View TerraceCost: FreeSponsor: City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and ParksInfo: 1-888-LA PARKS (527-2757), www.laparks.org

Irwindale Speedway NASCAR Races and Fireworks Show California Highway Patrol 200, NASCAR Camping World West Series Race and Auto Club Late Model Firecracker 100 races followed by a fireworks show.When: July 4, 4 pm – 10 pm, Gates open at 4, Autograph sessions at 5:45, races start at 7 pmWhere:Toyota Speedway at Irwindale, 500 Speedway Drive, Irwindale, CA 91706Cost: General Admission $15, Reserved $35, Senior $12, Youth 6-12 $7.50, Children 12 and under free (free ticket required).Info: www.toyotaspeedwayatirwindale.com

July 4th Fireworks Festival in Studio City This is a fun-filled family festival featuring exhibits, music, food, fireworks, a children’s fun zone, and a business exposition in a back lot at CBS Studios.When: July 4, 4:30 – 9:30 pmWhere: CBS Studio Center, 4024 Radford Ave., Studio City, Los AngelesCost: Adults $15 advance, $20 at the gate, Children 6-12 $8 advance, $10 at the gate, add $20 for rooftop viewing access or pay $100 for VIP tickets.Sponsor: Studio City Chamber of CommerceInfo: 818-655-5916, www.studiocitychamber.com

Annual Dennis P. Zine July 4th Extravaganza in Woodland HillsHuge Fourth of July fireworks festival in the West Valley with food vendors, play zone, a free concert and fireworks show.When: July 4, Concert begins at 6:00 pm, fireworks to live music at 9:05 pm Where: Warner Park, 5800, Topanga Canyon Blvd., Woodland HillsCost: FreeParking: $15 in any of the Warner Center structures between Topanga and Canoga or Califa and Oxnard Sponsor: Valley Cultural CenterInfo: 818-704-1358, www.valleycultural.org

Independence Day Celebration and Parade in Huntington Beach The “largest and oldest parade of its kind west of the Mississippi,” a 5K run/walk, bands, clowns, celebrities, floats and fireworks on “Surf City’s” famous Main Street. When: Parade July 4, Festival July 3, 4, 5Where: Festival at Pier Plaza at Huntington Beach Pier, Parade runs along Main Street from Pacific Coast Highway to Clay Ave.Cost: Free, reserved parade seating and fireworks seating is available for a fee.Info: www.hb4thofjuly.org View HB Parade Photos.

City of Diamond Bar’s Annual 4th of July BlastSpend the summer afternoon at the park with family, friends, and neighbors. Bring a picnic or enjoy a variety of concessions available. Kids’ crafts, face painting, and patriotic musical performances lead up to the fireworks display.When: July 4, 5:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.Where: Diamond Bar High School, 21400 Pathfinder Rd, Diamond BarCost: FreeSponsor: City of Diamond BarInfo: 909-839-7070, www.cityofdiamondbar.com

Old Glory Boat Parade Decorated boats parade through Newport HarborWhen: July 4, 1-5 pmWhere: Newport Harbor/Balboa IslandCost: FreeInfo: www.balboa-island.net, (949) 673-5070

Dana Point 4th of July Fireworks Show The City of Dana Point presents an aerial sky show, featuring a musical simulcast presented by radio station KSBR 88.5 FM. Arrive early to picnic over the Harbor on the cliffs of Blue Lantern Park or Heritage Park. When: July 4, 9 pm, beach opens at 6 amWhere: Doheny State Beach, 25300 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, CA 92629Cost: FreeInfo: www.danapoint.org, (949) 248-3530Note: Fireworks are NOT permitted on the beach.

Fullerton Community Fireworks Show and Festival An old-fashioned Fourth of July party, the festival features live entertainment, games for all ages, food booths and a special aerial fireworks display. When: July 4, 5-9:30Where: Fullerton High School Stadium, Lemon St. & Berkeley Ave. Fullerton, CA 92832Cost: Free. Fee for some activitiesInfo: www.cityoffullerton.com, (714) 738-6545

An event for the Boys & Girls Club in Long Beach

2009-06-03T22:22:00.000-07:00

Party Tip of the day Birthday 3-6

2009-05-11T23:48:00.000-07:00

Party tip of the day: 6th Birthday-Great age for traditional boy/girl party with pirates, princess, sports, tea, superhero or fairy Enjoy!5 minutes ago from web

Party tip of the day: 5th birthday-ACTIVE is the word that comes to mind! Great age for the CEC or indoor inflatable party -ACTIVE!8:57 PM May 7th from TweetDeck

Party tip of the day: 5th Birthday-They're old enough now to pick their own party theme & help with the planning. Let them get involved!10:31 PM May 6th from web

Party tip of the day: 4th Birthday - Great age to add activities like a gym, bubbles or even a messy art party! Time to get creative!12:08 AM May 6th from web

Party tip of the day: 3rd birthday traditional party games like duck-duck-goose work great no winner just fun and a pull string pinata!9:16 PM May 4th from web

Tip of the day: 2nd Birthday! Debate continues if a 2y/o needs a big character bash-if you have the funds then go for it! it's a great age!9:09 PM Apr 27th from web

Party tip of the day: 1st Birthday! Remember to have an activity that the birthday child can enjoy! Ballpit

Party Tip of the day April 14-24

2009-04-27T23:38:00.000-07:00

Tip of the day: 2nd Birthday! Debate continues if a 2y/o needs a big character bash-if you have the funds then go for it! it's a great age!

Party tip of the day: 1st Birthday! Remember to have an activity that the birthday child can enjoy! Ballpit, toys, blocks etc all work well!

Missed a few day so this week we will cover party tips for 1-5 year olds! Enjoy!

Party tip of the day: A party is a great way to give back, have guests donate or contribute to the charity of your choice instead of gifts

Party tip of the day: Adult event - Create a custom cocktail for your guests to try and guess its ingredients! Great meet & greet activity!1:27 PM Apr 20th from web

Party tip of the day for teens: Just stay out of sight and make sure that no one gets in trouble! Remember you were a teen once!

Celebrating Cooking

2009-04-15T22:20:00.000-07:00

Theme Advertisement!

Does your little one love to be in the kitchen? Then have a Cooking Party!

"Cooking Basics Party" Includes: • 2 to 2 1/2 hour "hands-on" kids cooking party
• A fun recipe for each child (Over 20 Kid-friendly recipes to choose from)
• All ingredients and supplies needed
• Food creation for each child
• Disposable aprons and Official Chef's hats
• Basic invitations and table coverings
• Soothing Tea for mom or dad and lemonade for the kids
• Complete clean-up of party area
• A cool, fun and safe cooking adventure!

Party Tip of the day April 7-13

2009-04-13T14:53:00.000-07:00

Apr 13th
Party tip of the day: Be flexible!No matter how carefully you plan something unexpected will happen! Have a "Plan B" relax & have a good time!

Extra
http://twitpic.com/3a13i - Indiana Jones Theme Party!

Apr 10th
Party tip of the day: Need an activity for the little hands? use large, fat, washable crayons and a large roll of white paper for doodling

Apr 9th
Party tip of the day: Need a great theme for you next party? check out www.agaperabba.com we have most DIY theme ideas available! Have fun!

Apr 8th
Party tip of the day: Please teach your child manners BEFORE the party - greet guests, opening gifts, sharing etc. are all important!

Apr 7th

Party tip of the day: GET HELP! Kids or adult parties take work so ask friends/ family to help out the day of the event! www.agaperabba.com

Easter 09 Southland Events

2009-04-09T23:33:00.000-07:00

Easter Events

Your Local Chruch for Sonrise or Easter Sunday Service!

Calvary Chapel Montebello -
Good Friday at Montebello City Park Amphitheater will take place at 7:00p.m.
Easter Services at Montebello City Park will take place at 6:00, 8:00 & 10:00a.

Calvary Chapel Chino Valley and Pastor David Rosales invite you to join us for Easter Services on April 10th and April 12th. 12205 N. Pipeline Chino, CA 91710 USA
Good Friday Services*, April 10th - 12noon & 7:00pm
We will have worship with our own CCCV worship team during our noon service and we will be joined by The Kry during our evening service.
Easter Sunday Services*, April 12th - 6:00am, 8:00am, 10:00am, 12noon
Our own CCCV worship team will be providing worship during our Easter morning services.

For the Kids

Spring Eggstravaganza
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Breakfast starts at 8:00 am, activities begin at 9:00 am
Activities include stage entertainment, children's crafts, field games, a petting zoo, moonbounces, visits with the Spring Bunny, and of course, the candy scramble for children 12 years of age and younger.
LOCATION: Henry Boisseranc Park 7520 Dale Street

Easter Egg Hunt
Saturday, Apr 11 10:00a to 2:00p
at Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden, Arcadia, CA
The great easter egg hunt fees: regular arboretum admission fees apply for non-members, plus $10 per child to participate in the event. The event cost for members is $5 per child. Pre-registration is not necessary. Easter baskets will be provided for every paid child at the event.
No outside baskets allowed

Saturday April 11
Spring Egg Hunt
Ages: 10 years old and under
Time: 10:30 Sharp!
Location: Oak Knoll Park 5700 Orange Avenue
Crafts, activities, food, egg hunt with toy and candy filled eggs, visits with the Easter Bunny (Please, don’t forget your camera!). Don't be late, this event starts at 10:30 SHARP!

Saturday April 11th
Flashlight Egg Hunt
Ages: 12 - 17 years old
Time: 7:00 pm
Location: Arnold/Cypress Park 8611 Watson Street
Admission: FREE - Bring your Flashlight and basket!
INFORMATION: City of Cypress - (714) 229-6780

The Glory of Easter at the Crystal Cathedral
Long-running musical passion play featuring over 100 actors, soaring angels and special effects.
When: Runs for about 10 days before Easter
Where: Crystal Cathedral, 12141 Lewis St, Garden Grove, CA 92840
Cost: $35-$45, $20 Discount nights available
Parking: Free on site Info: www.crystalcathedral.org/glory_easter/
Note: Not recommended for children under 9 years old due to vivid portrayal of Christ's death. Dress warmly.

Fountain Valley Annual Easter Egg Hunt
Saturday, April 11, 2009
8 am - 11 am
Egg Hunt begins at 10:00 am
DON’T BE LATE! Or your child may miss the egg hunt. Remember to have a basket or sack for your child to collect their eggs. We encourage parents to remain out of the hunt areas so children can enjoy collecting their own goodies. Everything will begin at 8am, and the Egg Hunt, Carnival Games, Crafts, Face Painters, Bounce House and are all free so come join us for all the fun! For children 11 and under.

Pancake Breakfast provided by the FV Kiwanis Club
$4.00 pre sale, $5.00 day of event per person, $15.00 pre sale for a family of 5
LOCATION: Recreation and Sports Park
INFORMATION: 714-839-8611

Fullerton Spring Holiday Festival & Monster Egg Hunt
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Arts & crafts faire, community performances on stage, a children’s area with face painting, art workshops and games, a monster egg hunt where kids search for hidden eggs containing monster toys and stickers, gallery tours of our student art exhibit by high school students, and tours of our historic villa. The Easer Bunny may even be seen hiding eggs! Everything is FREE. This festival open house is a gift to the community. Everyone volunteers their time to put it together. Food vendors will be available but people are encouraged to bring their own food in to the park and picnic in our theatre while they watch the show.
LOCATION:Muckenthaler Cultural Center 1201 West Malvern Avenue Fullerton
INFORMATION: 714-839-8611

Huntington Beach Annual Easter Hunt
Saturday, April 11, 2009
9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.
The Huntington Beach Kiwanis Club and the City of Huntington Beach Community Services Department present the annual Easter Hunt in Huntington Central Park. Bring your kids to this free hunt! Easter hunt, game booths, entertainment, exhibits, refreshments and a visit from the Easter Bunny with plenty of candy for the children. Pancakes and other refreshments will be available for purchase.
LOCATION: Huntington Beach Central Park
INFORMATION: 714-536-5486

Easter Sunrise Service at the Hollywood Bowl
Non-denominational Easter service with multi-denominational clergy and a 240 voice choir, 250 children in the Living Cross and Children's Choirs in nature's cathedral, decorated with thousands of Easter Lilies and ending with the mass release of the White Birds of Peace.
When: Easter Sunday, 5:30 to 7 am, gates open at 3:30 am
Where: The Hollywood Bowl, 2301 N.
Highland Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90068
Cost: Free Parking: Free stacked parking on site
Info: www.hollywoodbowleaster.com, (323) 463-7111
Note: Disabled seating available, sign language interpretation provided

Bel Air Presbyterian Easter Service at the Hollywood Bowl
The combined traditional and contemporary service will include a 100 person choir and contemporary worship band. When: Easter Sunday, 11 am, doors open at 9
Cost: Free Parking: Free stacked parking on site Info: www.belairpres.org, (818) 788-4200

Bunny's Spring Fling at the LA Zoo & Botanical Gardens
Kids can make bunny ears, pet bunnies and have their photo taken (for a fee) with Big Bunny and other cartoon characters at this three-day event at the LA Zoo. There will be crafts, face painting, music and more.
When: Easter Weekend, 10 am - 4 pm
Where: the LA Zoo, 5333 Zoo Drive, Los Angeles, CA, in Griffith Park, off the I-5 and 134 Freeways
Cost: Check website Parking: Free Info: www.lazoo.org

Haute Dog Easter Parade
500 pooches in bunny ears and bonnets will parade along the sidewalks of Belmont Shore in Long Beach on Easter Sunday. Pet fair will continue at Livingston Park. Best canine Easter outfit wins dog food for a year. There are prizes for human finery as well.
When: Easter Sunday, 2:30 pm, approximately an hour.
Where: Event starts at Livingston Park, Livingston Dr. at Park Ave in Long Beach
Cost: Fee for dog participation, Free to watch. Folding chairs are available to rent.
Parking: metered street parking Info: www.HauteDogs.org

The Great Easter Egg Hunt at the Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden
Activities for children of all ages include nature crafts, eco games, and photo opportunities. Easter baskets are provided for every paid child; no outside baskets will be allowed.
When: Saturday before Easter, 10 am - 2 pm, Arboretum hours 9 am - 5 pm
Where: LA County Arboretum, 310 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia, CA 91007
Cost: General admission, plus fee per child to participate in the hunt.
Info: www.arboretum.org, 626-821-5897

Easter Parade
Fred Astaire and Judy Garland star in Irving Berlin's Oscar-winning classic, Easter Parade (NR), billed as the "happiest musical ever made. " What better way to wrap up the holiday?
Aero Theatre 1328 Montana Avenue Santa Monica, CA 90403
Ages: 5-18 Time: 7:30pm Cost: Adults $10; Children, Students, Seniors $8

Giggles 'n' Hugs Easter Egg Hunt
The restaurant invites families for an egg hunt in the play area, with treats and prizes for the kids to find, including some eggs stuffed with Giggles 'n' Hugs membership cards. The winner of the karaoke contest gets a monthly membership card, too. 310.478.4847
Ages: 0-8 Time: Karaoke 11:30am; Egg hunt 12:30pm Cost: Free with paid admission
Giggles 'n' Hugs 11701 Wilshire Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90025

Easter on the Farm
Families can spend the whole day at the farm with the Easter Bunny, egg hunts, tractor-drawn wagon rides, egg dying, and a variety of baby animals to pet. 805.523.2957; 805.529.3690 Ongoing Daily 4/11/09 - 4/12/09; check with location for exceptions.
Ages: All Ages Time: 10am-4pm Cost: Adults & Children (2 & up) $5, (under 2) free
Underwood Family Farms 3370 Sunset Valley Road Moorpark, CA 93021

Easter Brunch & Egg Hunt
Family Easter brunch at Descanso Gardens is a holiday classic. Kids can participate in egg hunts on Saturday on the main lawn (every 45 minutes) and pose with the Easter Bunny. Brunch is available both Saturday and Sunday; Advance reservations are required for brunch. An early arrival is recommended for the egg hunts, as baskets sell out.
818.790.3663 http://www.descansogardens.org Ongoing Daily 4/11/09 - 4/12/09; check with location for exceptions. Ages: All Ages Time: 9am-2pm
Cost: Brunch: Adults $45; Children (4-12) $15; (Under 3) Free; Members $38; Egg hunts: $5/basket
Descanso Gardens 1418 Descanso Drive La Canada Flintridge, CA 91011

Easter Bunny Train
Fillmore & Western Railway offers a special Easter Lunch train excursion, with a visit and treats from the Easter Bunny. During lunch, the train takes guests on a three-hour tour of Heritage Valley's orange and lemon blossoms. Advance reservations for lunch are required - but not for the train ride alone. Either way, everyone gets a visit with the big bunny.
800.773.8724 http://www.fwry.com Ages: All Ages Time: 12n-3pm
Cost: Lunch: Adults $47; Children (4-12) $26, (2-3) $23; Ride only: Adults $24; Children (4-12) $14, (2-3) $10; Infants on lap free Fillmore & Western Railway Co. 351 Santa Clara Street Fillmore, CA 93015

Gospel Brunch at House of Blues
Sunday Gospel Brunch at the House of Blues is 45 minutes of roof-raising music accompanied by a huge buffet. Shows are held each Sunday; advance reservations are recommended to guarantee seating.
323.848.5100 http://www.hob.com/la Ongoing Each Sun; check with location for exceptions.
Ages: All Ages Time: 10am & 1pm Cost: Adults (13 and up) $40.50; Children (5-12) $19, (under 5) free
House of Blues - Sunset Strip 8430 W Sunset Blvd. West Hollywood, CA 90069

Irvine The Great Egg Hunt
Saturday, April 11, 2009
10:00am - 1:00pm
Bring your loved ones and join your neighbors in celebrating springtime. Participate in the various games, crafts and activities, take a family picture with Mr. Bunny (don't forget your camera); and hunt for special prizes in our annual 'Great Egg Hunt'. Hunt will be divided into age groups.
Registration fee is $12 per child. Parent or guardian must attend with an enrolled child. Ages 2-12. Limited walk ins accepted at Limited walk ins accepted at Woodbridge Park (Alton & Lake) on the day of the event. *Limited to one hunt per child!
LOCATION: Woodbridge Community Park 20 Lake Road Irvine, CA INFORMATION: 949-724-6734

Easter Service & Egg Hunt
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Services at 9:00 and 11:00am
Join us as we gratefully celebrate Easter Sunday with the official Grand Opening of the MC Beachside Campus. We'll even have an Easter Egg Hunt for the kids! Invite your friends, your neighbors, and join in the celebration!
LOCATION:Mariners Church Beachside Campus 18110 Magnolia Street Fountain Valley, CA, 92708 e
INFORMATION: 949.854.7600

Irvine Park Railroad Easter Eggstravaganza
Saturday, March 28th through Saturday, April 11th
At the Irvine Park Railroad Easter Eggstravaganza, children and adults can ride the train through beautiful Irvine Regional Park. And, children ages 2 through 12 can participate in an Easter egg hunt. Each egg will be filled with candy or a prize. Easter egg hunts begin daily at 10:00 AM and tickets may be purchased to participate in an egg hunt at a specific time. Please bring an Easter basket for each child that will be participating in the Easter egg hunt. Irvine Park Railroad will also offer Easter baskets for sale. Tickets must be purchased on the day of the event in order to receive a wristband for the Easter egg hunt. Children can also meet the Easter bunny and have their picture taken with him at a cost of $10.00 per photo and there will be other activities to enjoy during the Easter Eggstravaganza including hay rides, a moon bounce, picture stands and a lot more.
LOCATION: 1 Irvine Park Road Orange, CA 92869 INFORMATION:714-997-3968

Placentia Easter Egg-citement!
Saturday, April 11, 2009
8 am - 11:30 am
8:00 a.m.- Pancake breakfast hosted by Placentia Rotary Club
10:00 a.m. - the egg hunt will begin at and different areas will be designated for different age groups; 1 – 2 years, 3 – 4 years, 5 – 7 years, and 8 – 10 years.
Plastic eggs will be hidden throughout the park filled with candy, prize coupons, and assorted goodies!
There will also be face painting, and family games for all ages! Don’t forget to bring a container for your eggs and your camera to take a picture with the Easter Bunny!
LOCATION: Kraemer Memorial Park 201 N. Bradford Avenue INFORMATION: 949-993-8232

San Clemente Easter Eggstravaganza
Saturday, April 11, 2009
10am-1pm
It's the great big egg event that you just don't want to miss - Egghunts, unlimited action, plus Little Bo Peep and her herds of sheep, a wandering Path of Random Facts, and the usual indulgences - like scrumptious food, face painters, strange animals, jugglers big and small and other astounding acts of fun! Pancake breakfast provided by San Clemente Kiwanis and Key Club will be available for a nominal fee.
LOCATION:San Gorgonio Park 2916 Via San Gorgonio San Clemente INFORMATION: 949-361-8264

EASTER BRUNCHES

Castaway
1250 Harvard Dr, Burbank, CA 91501
Perched up on the hill in Burbank, this special-occasion destination offers an Easter Brunch buffet into the early evening. $34.95 for adults; $14.95 for kids. Receive $5 off if you get there in the first hour, between 9am and 10am.

Jar
8225 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036
Easter brunch with a multicultural spin at this beloved Beverly Boulevard spot features a la carte American comfort foods like corn pancakes and chilaquiles with creme fraiche.

Polo Lounge at the Beverly Hills Hotel
9641 Sunset Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90210
The Pink Palace continues its time-honored tradition with a three-course prix-fixe brunch, a complimentary beverage, and candy for the kids from the Easter Bunny in the lobby. $89 adults; $45 for children under 10.

Cafe Del Rey
4451 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey, CA 90292
Enjoy sublime harbor views with a prix-fixe Easter brunch menu, including choices of brioche French toast, grilled asparagus salad, and a prime sirloin burger, $75 adults; $25 children.

House Of Blues
8430 W Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069
Sophisticated down-home cooking in the world's most opulent shanty--the gospel brunch is an L.A. classic. Prices range from $19 to $40.50 per person.

Roy's Restaurants
800 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90017
This sophisticated Hawaiian-fusion restaurant will be giving the holiday an island makeover, highlighted through three courses such as crab and lobster rangoons, chevre-crusted salmon and Kona coffee chocolate mousse. There's also a special menu for kids with more traditional dishes. $30 adults; $12 children.

McKinley's Grille
Sheraton Fairplex, .Pomona
10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Place: McKinley's Grille at the Cost: $28.95 for adults and $14 for Children...

Amaranta Cocina Mexicana
6600 Topanga Canyon Road Ste 1029, Canoga Park, CA 91303
This authentic Mexican kitchen in the West Valley will be featuring a la carte brunch fare with a decidely Latin spin, such as white corn tamales stuffed with cheese and sour cream, and eggs in tomato and Serrano chili sauce.

Ivy At The Shore
1535 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Celebrate Easter with a swanky brunch at this famed seaside restaurant just steps from the Pier. No special menu, just all the usual supects like huevos rancheros, homemade scones, salads and more.

Campanile
624 S La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036
Fabulous Cal-Med mainstay features a delightful a la carte Easter brunch, with dishes like eggs in a hole, beef brisket hash and wild mushroom quiche. Pastries are $5 each or $15 for a basket.

Parkway Grill
510 S Arroyo Pkwy, Pasadena, CA 91105
Easter is one of only two times during the year that this Pasadena mainstay offers brunch; a la carte items include tiger shrimp corndogs, smoked salmon frittata and apricot-stuffed French toast.

The Clubhouse Restaurant - Easter Brunch Buffet
3333 Bristol Street Costa Mesa 714 708-2582
10:30 am - 5 pm
Buffet menu includes a carving station, omellete station, hot buffet entree, cold displays, salads and a dessert table. Reservations suggested.
LOCATION:

Terra Nova Easter Brunch
Wyndham Orange County 3350 Avenue of the Arts Costa Mesa, California
Reservations required (714) 442-8593
9 am - 2 pm
When making your reservations, be sure to specify if you prefer dining inside in the TerraNova or outdoors lakeside. This years brunch features: Fresh Fruits and Produce, Muffins and Croissants baked daily, cooked to order Omelets, Eggs Benedict, Cheese Blintzes, Country Style Potatoes, Belgian Waffles, French Toast, Bacon, Sausage, and Scrambled Eggs. Luncheon items include Shrimp Cocktail, Smoked Salmon, Gourmet Salads, Chicken Piccata, a Carving Station, Wild Rice Primavera, Seasonal Vegetables, Assorted Desserts, and a decadent Chocolate Fountain. $25.95 per person / $9.95 (12 and under).

Brought to you by Agaperabba Entertainment www.agaperabba.com

Happy Easter! Handprint Wreath

2009-04-09T17:58:00.000-07:00

EASTER HANDS WREATH

It's fun to compare and see how they've grown doing these year after year.

Materials you will need for this wreath are glue, scissors, and three colors of pastel paint or construction paper.

There are two ways to do this craft.

One is to trace the child's hand onto paper and cut out the prints.

The second is to make paint handprints on the paper and cut those out.

Make nine handprints (3 of each colour).

Cut out the prints and glue to form a wreath.

You can decorate the wreath further with pictures.

stickers!
hand drawn artwork
pictures from coloring books
magazines or fliers
photos

OPTIONAL: put a saying in the center of the wreath ... "Little hands made by God"

Happy Easter - Jelly Bean Poem

2009-04-08T19:44:00.000-07:00

Easter Poem - Jelly Beans

You will need to buy a small packet of jelly beans or other candy that contains sweets of each color mentioned below.

Red is for the blood He gave.
Green is for the grass He made.
Yellow is for the sunflowers so bright.
Black is for the dark of night.White is for the grace He gave.
Orange is for the sun He made.
Purple is for the hours of sorrow.
Pink is for our new tomorrow.
A bag full of jelly beans,colourful and sweet.
It's a prayer, a promise, and a child's treat.

Happy Easter! Tomb Cookies

2009-04-08T19:26:00.000-07:00

It's that time of the year to celebrate Easter!

Easter is an important part of any Christians life since we believe that it's the death and Resurrection of Jesus! The Good News and the Hope. During this time spend it teaching the kids about the meaning of Easter - it's not just bunnies and eggs!

My favorite was Tomb Cookies, teaching my stepdaughter the meaning of Easter and the fun of learning and cooking together!

Ingredients
Bible
1 cup whole pecans
1 tsp. vinegar
3 egg whites
pinch of salt
1 cup granulated sugar
1 qt. or gal. size zipper bag
wooden spoon
tape

Preheat oven to 3000 F or 1500 C.
Place pecans in ziploc bag and let kids beat them with the wooden spoon to break into
small pieces. Explain that after Jesus was arrested, He was beaten by the Roman soldiers.
Read: John 19:1-3. Then Pilate took Jesus and had him flogged. The soldiers twisted together a crown of thorns and put it on his head. They clothed him in a purple robe and went up to him again and again, saying, "Hail, king of the Jews!" And they struck him in the face.
Let each child smell the vinegar. Add teaspoon of vinegar into the mixing bowl.
Explain that when Jesus was thirsty on the cross He was given vinegar to drink.
Read John 19:28-30. Later, knowing that all was now completed, and so that the Scripture would be fulfilled, Jesus said, "I am thirsty." A jar of wine vinegar was there, so they soaked a sponge in it, put the sponge on a stalk of the hyssop plant, and lifted it to Jesus' lips. When he had received the drink, Jesus said, "It is finished." With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.
Add egg whites to vinegar. Eggs represent life. Explain that Jesus gave His life to give us life. Read John 10:10-11. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. "I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep."
Sprinkle a little salt into each child's hand. Let them taste it and brush the rest into the bowl. Explain that this represents the salty tears shed by Jesus' followers, and the bitterness of our own sins.

Read Luke 23:27. A large number of people followed Him, including women who mourned and wailed for Him.
So far the ingredients are not very appetizing. Add 1 cup of sugar. Explain that the sweetest part of the story is that Jesus died because He loves us. He wants us to know and belong to Him.
Read Psalm 34:8. Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him.
John 3:16. "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten son, that whoever believeth in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life."
Beat with a mixer on high speed for 12-15 minutes until stiff peaks are formed. Explain that the color white represents the purity in God's eyes of those whose sins have been cleansed by Jesus.

Read Isaiah 1:18. "Come now, let us reason together," says the Lord. "Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool."

John 3:1-3. Now there was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a member of the Jewish ruling council. He came to Jesus at night and said, "Rabbi, we know you are a teacher who has come from God, for no one could perform the miraculous signs you are doing if God were not with him." In reply Jesus declared, "I tell you the truth, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again."

8. Fold in broken nuts.

9. Line the cookie sheet with waxed paper. Drop mixture by spoonfuls onto waxed paper. Explain that each mound represents the rocky tomb where Jesus' body was laid.

Read Matthew 27:57-60. As evening approached, there came a rich man from
Arimathea, named Joseph, who had himself become a disciple of Jesus. Going to Pilate, he asked for Jesus' body, and Pilate ordered that it be given to him. Joseph took the body, wrapped it in clean linen cloth, and placed it in his own new tomb that he had cut out of rock. He rolled a big stone in front of the entrance to the tomb and went away.

10. Place the cookie sheet in the oven, close the door and turn the oven OFF. Give each child a piece of tape and seal the oven door. Explain that Jesus' tomb was sealed.

Read Matthew 27:65-66. "Take a guard," Pilate answered. "Go, make the tomb as
secure as you know how." So they went and made the tomb secure by putting a seal on the stone and posting a guard.

11. Go to bed. Explain that they may feel sad to leave the cookies in the oven overnight. Jesus' followers were in despair when the tomb was sealed.

Read John 16:20. "I tell you the truth, you will weep and mourn while the world
rejoices. You will grieve, buy your grief will turn to joy." And John 16:22 "So with you~ Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy."

On Easter morning, open the oven and remove the cookies. Take a bite. Notice that the cookies are hollow!

On the first Easter Jesus' followers were amazed to find the tomb open and empty.

Read Matthew 28:1-9. After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb. There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it. His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow. The guards were so afraid of him that they shook and became like dead men. The angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; He has risen, just as He said. Come and see the place where He lay. Then go quickly and tell His disciples: "He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see Him. Now I have told you." So the
women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell His
disciples. Suddenly Jesus met them, "Greetings," He said. They came to Him, clasped his feet and worshipped Him.

Enjoy and Celebrate!

Twitter Party Tip of the Day Mar 23rd

2009-03-23T22:28:00.000-07:00

Missing a few days in between since we've been busy with PARTIES!! Enjoy today's tip!

Agaperabba Party tip of the day: GET HELP! Kids or adult parties take work so ask friends/ family to help out the day of the event! www.agaperabba.com

Twitter Party Tip of the Day Mar 18

2009-03-18T14:31:00.001-07:00

Agaperabba Party tip of the day: Kids love to be kept BUSY! Have fun cheap activities ready for them to play, even it it's sidewalk chalk or army men!

Twitter Party Tip of the Day Mar 16 & 17

2009-03-17T13:25:00.000-07:00

(Tues) AgaperabbaParty tip of the day: How long should a party last? 1hr is enough time for a toddler/pre-school party. Older children 2-2.5 is plenty!

(Mon) AgaperabbaParty tip of the day: Make the party manageable! A child's party should have guests that equal the age of the birthday child.

Twitter Party Tip of the Day Mar 12th

2009-03-12T23:26:00.000-07:00

Agaperabba Party tip of the day: Kids remember what they did at a party much more than what they ate or plate/napkin color-don't sweat the small stuff!

Twitter Party Tip of the Day Mar 9 & 10

2009-03-11T16:25:00.000-07:00

Tuesday March 10th Party tip of the day: Adding to yesterday's tip - ask your child what type of party he/she wants and be flexible! Remember it's THEIR party!

Monday March 9th Party Tip of Day: involve your child in party planning & preparation, nothing better to see your kids eyes light up at their accomplishment

Twitter Party Tip of the Day Mar 6th

2009-03-06T15:44:00.000-08:00

Agaperabba Party tip of the Day: Forget filling refrigerator/cooler, instead use your washing machine! Put bags of ice in washer & fill tub with drinks - no mess clean up!

Jungle Safari or Reptile Party

2009-03-05T22:31:00.000-08:00

Does your child love animals? Have a Reptile or Jungle Party!

REPTILE EDUCATION
Party Includes:Education on 4-6 different species of Reptiles or Arachnids - Habitat, Care & Safety

JUNGLE MANIA
Party Includes:Face Painting, 5-6 Jungle Party Games, Coloring Sheets, Fun Bags 1.5 Hours for 8-10 Guests

Deluxe Party Includes:Reptile Education Party Games Face Painting Full Size Party Bags Personalized Activity Book Decorations Stock Invitations 2.5 Hours for up to 15 Guests

Where we would be Happy to help with your upcoming party, here are a few DIY Jungle Party idea:

Fun Invitations for a Jungle Safari Party include:
Drawing or photo of favorite jungle animal (monkey, zebra, tiger giraffe, etc.)
Photo of your child in safari gear
Drawing or photo of safari vehicle (Jeep)

Fun Decorations for a Jungle Safari Party include:
Plastic or stuffed animal toys
Green, yellow & orange balloons
Green streamers
Real ivy, vines, palm fronds and other available greenery
Animal Cuts outs or posters

Fun Games & Activities for a Jungle Safari Party include:
Barrel of monkeys game
Safari (find pictures of animals)
Twister
Pin the tail on the zebra
Real Jeep or SUV that kids can play in
Jungle Book or Tarzan movies
Animal Bingo
Charades (animal of course!)

Fun Arts & Craft ideas for a Jungle Safari Party include:
Animal masks
Beading (wooden beads)
Modeling clay or pipe cleaner animals
Jungle scene mural
Animal Chalk
Pompom animal

Fun Foods for a Jungle Safari Party include:
Peanut butter & jelly sandwiches
Trail mix (nuts, raisins, m&ms)
Fruit kabobs or fruit salad
Cupcakes with colored sugar
Animal crackers
Veggie platter

Fun Party Favors for a Jungle Safari Party include:
Small plastic or stuffed jungle animals
Finger cuffs (woven straw party trick)
Disposable cameras
Toy binoculars
Animal finger puppets
Stickers

If we can help in any way please feel free to contact us at
agaperabba@msn.com 626.289.8184 http://www.agaperabba.com/

Twitter Party Tip of the Day Mar 5th

2009-03-05T22:28:00.000-08:00

Agaperabba Party Tip of the day: Manage RSVP stragglers by calling & politely say 1) love them to attend your party & 2) want to know if they can make it.

Twitter Party Tip of the Day Mar 4th

2009-03-04T14:23:00.000-08:00

AgaperabbaParty tip of the Day: Beach Party? use a surfboard as a table; use simple sand and shells as your table decor; Don't forget to play LIMBO!

Twitter Party Tip of the Day Mar 3rd

2009-03-03T23:26:00.000-08:00

AgaperabbaParty tip of the day: Invite family members that you have disconnected with to your next family event, you never know where life can take it

Today's post is dedicated to my Grandma Alice, April 21, 1923 - February 21, 2009

Twitter Party Tip of the Day Feb 20/21 Oscars

2009-02-20T16:05:00.000-08:00

Agaperabba Party tip of the Day(Sat)-Oscar Party Get guests comfortable clear out coffee table & leave room for chairs, beanbags, pillows for"audience"

Agaperabba Party tip of the Day: (Fri)Oscar Party-Tack up the movie posters and lay out the red carpet for friends & use commercials to play trivia games!

Twitter Party Tip of the Day Feb 18th

2009-02-19T12:56:00.000-08:00

Agaperabba Party tip of the Day: Send out your birthday invites at least 5-6 weeks in advance!

Twitter Party Tip of the Day Feb 17th

2009-02-17T19:59:00.000-08:00

Agaperabba Party tip of the Day: DIY Balloons? Make sure you tie them all together at the top-this will prevent balloons flying everywhere hitting people in the face!

Twitter Party Tip of the Day Feb 16th

2009-02-16T19:17:00.000-08:00

Agaperabba Party Tip of the Day: Teach your child to be a gracious recipient of all gifts - send THANK YOUS! Cards, notes, pictures are most missed!

Twitter Party Tip of the Day Feb 15th

2009-02-15T17:49:00.000-08:00

Agaperabba Party tip of the Day: Serving kids food? PLEASE have wipes available to the using - your guests will thank you!

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY

2009-02-14T14:39:00.001-08:00

We're getting ready to go to work....yes, we work on Valentine's Day!

We don't need a certain day of the year to tell each other that we love the other.

So my Life Tip of the Day is to Enjoy the ones you LOVE daily!

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!

Valentine Week Friday - Something for Everyone

2009-02-13T15:52:00.000-08:00

Recipes for Giving L O V E

Chocolate Kiss Cupcakes

Homemade cake mix or store bought cake mixChocolate kisses candy, unwrappedFrostingMake cake mix according to direction. Place muffin liners in muffin pan. Pour dough into each cup and place an unwrapped chocolate kiss in the middle of each cupcake. Bake according to directions. Allow to cool and frost. Your valentine will find a yummy hidden kiss inside their cupcake.

Heart Cupcakes

This is an easy way to make a Valentine recipe for your friend. Making heart shape cupcakes can be made simply by using large marbles or tin foil wrapped up in a marble size ball. Before placing cake mix into cupcake liners. Place a marble ball on the outside of the liner. This will shape the top into a heart shape.

Homemade Chocolate Kiss

½ Cup butter5 cups marshmallows or 40 large marshmallows 6 Cups crispy rice cereal6 oz. Package of chocolate chips Funnels of desired size In microwave safe bowl add butter, marshmallows and chocolate chips. Melt in microwave several minutes until chocolate and marshmallows are completely melted. Stirring occasionally. Place rice cereal into large bowl and pour chocolate mixture over top. Stir to coat evenly. Cool slightly so you can handle the mixture. Butter inside of large funnels. Press warm rice mixture into funnel and allow to cool. Place upside down and unmold from funnel. Wrap in plastic or tin foil. Write a little note to your Valentine on a long strip of paper and wrap up with the paper sticking out of the top.

Cookie Bouquet

Sugar cookie dough Sucker sticks Frosting Prepare sugar cookie dough according to directions. Cut out dough into heart or flower shapes with a cookie cutter. Place a sucker stick into each cookie. Bake according to directions. Allow to cool and frost. To give to your Valentine place cookies on the stick in a vase. Tie with a bow and attach a Valentine note.

Pink Divinity

2 2/3 cups sugar2/3 cup light corn syrup1/2 cup water2 egg whites1 teaspoon vanilla extract1 to 2 drops red food coloringIn a saucepan add sugar, corn syrup and water. Cook on medium and stir until sugar is dissolved. Turn to low and continue cooking without stirring until a candy thermometer reads 260 degrees. (you may need an adult's help with this step) Meanwhile in a mixing bowl add 2 egg whites. Beat on high until stiff peaks form. Once candy thermometer reads 260 degrees add the hot mixture to the egg whites while mixing. Add vanilla and red food coloring. Continue to mix until thickens. Lay out a sheet of waxed paper and drop candy by spoonfuls making mounds. Let cool.

Red Rice Treats

Prepare rice krispies treats from a recipe and add red food coloring. Spread into a 13x9 pan and cool. With a heart cookie cutter cut rice krispies out. This is a simple and easy kids recipe they can make for their friends this Valentine's day.

Valentine Oatmeal Cookies

These cookies are spotted with Red (Craisins or dried cranberries) and white chocolate chips. This makes an easy Kids Valentine recipes.2/3 Cup butter2/3 Cup brown sugar2 large eggs1 teaspoon baking soda1/2 teaspoon Salt1 1/2 Cups flour1 1/2 Cups oats1 6 ounce package of Craisins dried cranberries1 Cup white chocolate chipsIn mixing bowl cream together butter and brown sugar. Add in eggs, baking soda and salt. Mix together then add flour. Mix until well blended. Stir in white chocolate chips and Craisins. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Roll into small balls and place on a cookie sheet. Bake for 10 minutes until golden brown.

Breakfast Valentine Recipes

Love Potion Smoothie 1/2 cup frozen strawberries1/2 cup frozen raspberries1 small carton of yogurt1/2 Cup ice cubes1 cup apple juicePlace strawberries, raspberries and juice in blender. Blend several seconds. If you would like a thicker smoothie add more fruit or for a drinkable smoothie add 1/4 Cup more juice. This is one of those Valentine recipes that can be used year round.

Fruit Flowers

Kids can use their creativity to make flowers out of cut fruit. Try using sliced strawberries for a flower and petals and use sliced kiwi for stems. Sliced peaches, raspberries, or blueberries all work great also. Create a flower on a plate or turn this simple Valentine recipe into a bouquet of flowers for your

Heart shaped pancakes

Use a metal cookie cutter and pour pancake batter inside.
Cut toast into heart with a cookie cutter and spread with red jam.
Drizzle a heart with honey or maple syrup on oatmeal or hot cereal.
Spread strawberry cream cheese, then strawberry jam on top of a tortilla. Roll up and cut into slices.

Biscuits shaped like hearts and serve with eggs.

I hope making a few of these recipes gives you a delightful Valentine's Day!

Twitter Party Tip of the Day Feb 13th

2009-02-13T15:48:00.000-08:00

Agaperabba Party Tip of the Day: keep your toilet clean during parties- place a container of antibacterial, bathroom cleaning wipes near the toilet, most guests will utilized what is provide and it keeps the room and toilet in tip top shape!

Valentine Week Thursday - Love Pops

2009-02-12T15:10:00.000-08:00

L O V E POPS

INGREDIENTS
12 craft sticks
1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup butter, softened
1/3 cup packed light brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 egg
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
12 (1 ounce) squares white chocolate
1 egg white
1 1/4 cups confectioners' sugar
3 drops red food coloring

DIRECTIONS
Soak craft sticks for one hour in a bowl of cold water.

In small heavy saucepan over very low heat, stir chocolate chips until melted and smooth. Remove from heat; let cool.

In large bowl with electric mixer at medium speed, beat butter, brown sugar and vanilla until fluffy. Beat egg in well; beat in cooled chocolate. With mixer at low speed, beat in flour, cocoa powder and salt until smooth. Divide dough in half.

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) and grease 2 large cookie sheets.

Roll each half out to 1/8 inch thickness between 2 sheets of wax paper; freeze, in wax paper, 5 minutes. Peal top sheets of wax paper off dough; cut dough out using 3-inch heart-shaped cutter.

Reroll scraps; freeze again 5 minutes; cut out. Place half of the hearts 1 inch apart on prepared cookie sheet.
Drain sticks, pat dry. Place one stick on each heart to make 2 1/2 inch handle, pressing lightly into dough. Place remaining hearts on top; press edges gently to seal. Bake about 12 minutes until firm to touch. Cool on wire racks.

In 2-quart heavy saucepan over very low heat, or in top of double boiler set over barely simmering water, stir white or milk chocolate until melted and smooth; if using both chocolates, melt in separate 1-quart pans. Remove from heat.
Holding each lollipop by handle, dip into chocolate to coat on both sides; let excess chocolate drip back into pan. Place each lollipop as it is coated on wax-paper-lined cookie sheet; refrigerate 20 minutes until chocolate is set.

To Make Icing: In large bowl with electric mixer at high speed, beat egg white and confectioners' sugar until very smooth. If desired, remove small portion of icing to separate bowl; tint with drops of food coloring. Spoon icing into decorating bag fitted with small writing tip; pipe over lollipops in desired patterns. Decorate with assorted candies and decors; attaching with dots of icing

Twitter Party Tip of the Day Feb 12th

2009-02-12T15:02:00.000-08:00

Agaperabba Party tip of the day: Does you child love Elmo or Dr. Seuss? Have a fish bowl centerpiece - just remember to keep the fish in the shade!

Valentine Week Wednesday Magnet Craft

2009-02-11T19:08:00.000-08:00

Salt dough is a really fun medium and you can make so many things from it!

Try these adorable heart-shaped magnets for the refrigerator and pins to give as gifts.

What you'll need:
½ cup salt
1 cup flour
½ cup water
Wooden spoon
Rolling pin
Extra flour
Heart-shaped cookie cutters
Magnets
Pin backs
Hot glue
Acrylic paint (pink, white, red, light blue, yellow, white, pink, silver)
Pink and orange glitter glue
Gold glitter paint
Toothpick
Paint brush
Acrylic sealer
Wax paper
Cookie sheet

How to make it:

Preheat the oven to 250 degrees F.

Mix together, salt, flour, and water until dough is formed.

Knead the dough on a floured surface until the mixture is elastic and smooth. If dough is too sticky, sprinkle with flour and continue to do so until stickiness is gone. Do not add too much flour as this will dry out the dough and cause it to crack before it's baked.

Roll out the dough to about ¼" thick with a rolling pin that has been dusted with flour.

Use different sized heart-shaped cookie cutters to create as many pieces as you like.

For smaller children, use a single shape to make it easier at painting time. For older children, you can double up and even triple some of the hearts for a 3D affect as we did (see photo).

Place all hearts onto an ungreased cookie sheet and place into the preheated oven.

Bake for 2 hours.

Remove from oven and allow to cool completely.

Paint with acrylic paints, glitter glue and/or glitter paint and spray finished projects with acrylic sealer.

To write the words on the conversation heart pins, use a toothpick dipped in white paint.

Hot glue a round magnet to the back of larger hearts to hang on the fridge, and a in back to the conversation hearts.

Tips:

To make 3D polka dots, simply roll salt dough into small ball shapes and place on top of heart before placing into oven.

Parents should not allow small children to handle a glue gun as burns can occur. Older children should be closely supervised if allowed to handle it themselves.

Salt dough will not keep for later projects as it gets hard and cracks. Depending on how many hearts you plan to make, you can either halve the recipe or double it.

Twitter Party Tip of the Day Feb 11th

2009-02-11T19:04:00.000-08:00

Agaperabba Party Tip of the Day: Cut the food in half! To save cut hot dogs, corn, chicken nuggets, muffins etc. the kids won't even notice and you'll be amazed how much food isn't wasted!

Valentine Week Monday

2009-02-09T23:40:00.000-08:00

Speading the word of our blog has been harder then I thought, I've started "advertising" on the blog listings, let's see if we get a few more readers. After all I don't want all these tips and expertise to go to waste! ;)

So here is to Monday's day of L O V E

CHOCOLATE-WALNUT LACE COOKIE ICE CREAM SANDWICHES
Serves 4

¼ cup granulated sugar

1½ Tbsps. butter ¼ cup quick-cooking rolled oats

2 Tbsps. chopped walnuts

1 Tbsp. unsweetened cocoa powder

½ tsp. baking powder

½ tsp. vanilla extract 1 large egg white

1 pt. low-fat strawberry or chocolate ice cream

Heat the oven to 325 degrees. Line a large baking sheet with foil and coat it with cooking spray or brush it with oil. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar and butter. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture is melted and bubbling, about 1 to 2 minutes. Transfer the mixture to a medium bowl. Add the oats, walnuts, cocoa, baking powder and vanilla, then stir to combine. Set aside. In a small bowl, use a fork to beat the egg white until it is slightly frothy. Measure out 1 tablespoon of the beaten white and stir it into the cookie batter; discard the remaining egg white or reserve for another use. Drop half tablespoonfuls of the batter about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet to make 12 cookies. Bake for 8 to 12 minutes, or until the cookies look dry and are just beginning to color on top. Slide the sheet of foil and cookies off the baking sheet and onto a flat surface. Let the cookies cool completely. Peel the cookies off the foil. To assemble the sandwiches, set a cookie in the center of a dessert plate. Top with ¼ cup of the ice cream. Set a second cookie on top of the ice cream, then top that with another ¼ cup of ice cream. Set a third cookie on top. As you assemble the sandwiches, place them in the freezer until ready to serve.

Nutrition information per serving (values are rounded to the nearest whole number): 232 calories; 82 calories from fat; 9 g fat (4 g saturated; 0 g trans fats); 16 mg cholesterol; 33 g carbohydrate; 5 g protein; 2 g fiber; 150 mg sodium.

Valentine Week

2009-02-09T00:39:00.000-08:00

Sharing the L O V E holiday with all of you I will post some fun and easy sweetheart treats and ideas this week.

Today is heart-shaped cupcakes.

They're easy to make and require no special pans or molds.

To make some, line your cupcake tins with baking liners. Then prepare a batch of your favorite batter and fill the cups halfway. Place a small marble or a 1/2-inch ball of aluminum foil between each liner and one side of the tin (a great job for kids). This will push the paper into the batter to form the notch in the heart.

Bake the cupcakes at the temperature specified by your recipe but check for doneness a few minutes early. Let the cupcakes cool, then remove the marbles or foil balls. Frost with icing and top with colored sugar or sprinkles.

Twitter Party Tip of the Day Feb 8th

2009-02-09T00:31:00.000-08:00

Agaperabba Party tip of the Day: When using a fondue or chocolate fountain, use a plastic table cloth underneath because there will be a mess and this way, you can toss it all away!

Twitter Party Tip of the Day Feb 7th

2009-02-07T20:59:00.000-08:00

Agaperabba Party Tip of the Day: Don't wait until the last minute to book your kids party entertainment -last minute calls make me feel bad saying No, sorry we're booked :(

Twitter Party Tip of the Day Feb 6th

2009-02-06T15:54:00.000-08:00

Agaperabba Party tip of the Day: Having trouble with a stain the day after the party? check out How Stuff Works and their long list of stain removals! http://tinyurl.com/2dt9ja

Twitter Party Tip of the Day Feb 5th

2009-02-05T14:17:00.000-08:00

Agaperabba Party tip of the Day: When weighing down linens on a blustery day, use fishing weights on the corners!

www.agaperabba.com
Party planning & event entertainment for all occasions

Twitter Party Tip of the Day Feb 2nd

2009-02-03T21:15:00.000-08:00

Agaperabba Party tip of the Day: Have a craft day! to stay budget friendly you can do eco-friendly crafts and a garden party! www.agaperabba.com

Indiana Jones Birthday Party Theme

2009-01-30T13:05:00.000-08:00

Do you have an Indiana Jones in your home? We can help with our new IJ Party!!!

Party Package
*Face Painting
*Party Activities
-Make and practice with a whip!
-Tug of War
-Scavenger Hunt
-Find the Gold
-Mummify a barbie!
-Find the Golden Idol
-Skull Pinata
-Mummy Wrap
-Snake Pit with Sacred Stones
-Poison Dart Game
*Goodie Bags

Add-on's include Fedora Hats and/or treasure bag for each guest, food, decor, rentals

1.5 hours of adventure!

Call today to book your event! www.agaperaba.com
Agaperabba Entertainment
Party Planning and Event Entertainment for California

Twitter Party Tip of the Day Jan 30th

2009-01-30T13:04:00.000-08:00

Agaperabba Party Tip of the Day: Don't worry about birthday rsvp's Nobody replies! 70-75% of people will attend your party except for bad weather days!

Twitter Party Tip of the Day Jan 29th

2009-01-29T22:40:00.000-08:00

Agaperabba Party Tip of the Day: Having a kids birthday? Don't forget to provide foods that THE KIDS will eat! Easy finger foods work GREAT!

Twitter Party Tip of the Day Jan 28th

2009-01-28T14:29:00.000-08:00

Agaperabba Party Tip of the Day: Not creative? Hire someone (like Agaperabba.com) to do your dirty work! We're happy to make your event wonderful!

Twitter Party Tip of the Day Jan 27th

2009-01-27T23:26:00.000-08:00

Agaperabba Party Tip of the Day: On a budget? Select finger foods and cake...don't think you have to feed 50 people a full meal!

Twitter Party Tip of the Day

2009-01-26T13:36:00.000-08:00

Agaperabba Party Tip of the Day: Have someone other then yourself take pictures on those special days! Nothing like looking back & your missing!

Twitter Party Tip of the Day

2009-01-25T16:10:00.000-08:00

I've decided to use twitter to to give one-line party tip helps. I'm going to attempt to do it every day and then turn around and post that tip here! Enjoy

Today's Party Tip of the Day:
Agaperabba When doing a pinata - pre-bag the candy to save from the mess and chaos!

Do you Twitter?

2009-01-24T21:00:00.001-08:00

Nothing ventured, Nothing gained!

Come twitter with us!

http://twitter.com/Agaperabba