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The Grill at The Westin, Long Beach: Gourmet American Fare at an Affordable Price

Posted on March 6, 2019

Chicken Linguine at The Grill at The Westin in Long Beach

Tucked inside The Westin in Downtown Long Beach is a little gem called The Grill. And It’s not only for hotel guests!

Last weekend, we had the pleasure of eating at The Grill for my belated birthday dinner, and let me just say I’m glad we took a Lyft there because I was in a total food coma by the time we left! I chose some of the more indulgent foods because we were celebrating, and I waddled out of the restaurant full of butter and garlic and with a big smile on my face.

I waddled out of the restaurant full of butter and garlic and with a big smile on my face.

Pomegranate Green Tea cocktail at The Grill at The Westin in Long Beach

If you have never eaten at The Grill, you will find that there are rich foods, fresh foods, classic foods, pretty much every type of American entree you can think of. Whether you are looking for a summer salad for lunch, a buttery pasta for dinner, or just some drinks with friends, you will find it here.

There are rich foods, fresh foods, classic foods, pretty much every type of American entree you can think of.

When we arrived at The Grill, someone greeted us immediately and I noticed the restaurant had a really intimate vibe. You can feel that you’re in a hotel in a way that makes you wish you were vacation too, but it’s situated far enough from the lobby that you aren’t distracted by excessive foot traffic.

I started with a Pomegranate Green Tea cocktail, which was a strong but tasty martini. There were a number of other specialty cocktails, but this one is my favorite! (Another reason I’m glad we didn’t drive – these drinks go down way too easily!) There is an extensive beer and wine list as well, and Jason went with a Cabernet for himself.

The atmosphere was light, and quiet but not too quiet.

The atmosphere was light, and quiet but not too quiet. I got a Caesar salad before my dinner and was really

Caesar salad at The Grill at The Westin in Long Beach

impressed with the size of it. I easily could have shared it (but I didn’t want to because it was so good!)

For our entrees, I got the Shrimp Linguine and Jason got the turkey burger. My linguine was amazing. The sauce was buttery and garlicky, the shrimp were huge, and it was garnished with bacon that was cooked to perfection. Jason said his burger was great as well. It was gone before I finished my first shrimp so I know it had to have been good.

The shrimp were huge, and it was garnished with bacon that was cooked to perfection.

Chocolate lava cake at The Grill at The Westin in Long Beach

Every server who stopped by our table was incredibly friendly. They asked what occasion we were celebrating and when we had finished our meals, someone brought out a chocolate lava cake for my birthday! It was warm and gooey and even came with a candle on top. Jason doesn’t eat sweets at all, so I ate most of this delicious dessert all by myself (which left me wondering if other diners just assumed I didn’t want to share…)

Prices were really reasonable for such high quality food, with most entrees in the $14-24 range.

Prices were really reasonable for such high quality food, with most entrees in the $14-24 range. They had a variety of apps like nachos and flatbread pizzas that were in the lower price range also. It was mostly American fare: there were the classics like burgers and sandwiches, and then your more dinner-style entrees like salmon and steak. There were several pastas too, and I was in the mood for carbs!

We are always looking for new happy hours that have good prices.

They have a really great happy hour with even cheaper prices on apps and great drink specials, which would be perfect for a night out with friends or a date night. Jason and I are always looking for new happy hours that have good prices, but we don’t always want a sports bar vibe. The Grill is the perfect spot to fill that niche.

ExploreLongBeach

Cafe Sevilla: A Romantic Culinary Tour of Spain

Posted on February 23, 2019

Cafe Sevilla Long Beach tapas bar night club

What exactly is Cafe Sevilla: A nightclub? A tapas bar? A happy hour chill spot? A fancy restaurant? It’s literally all of these things! We had visited the nightclub section of Sevilla before, and had also tried some of their tapas at the downtown tasting events, but last weekend we had the opportunity to have dinner in the restaurant for the first time.

There is really something for every budget on the menu.

Flight of sangria at Cafe Sevilla Long Beach

My expectation was that it was going to be VERY expensive, which is one of the reasons we had never gone for dinner before. However, we realized there is really something for every budget on the menu. They had great happy hour specials and an assortment of tapas in the $7-15 range. There were reasonably priced bottles of sangria, you could opt for a family-style dinner, and they even have brunch. You could go for drinks and apps and spend $40 on a date night, or $150 on a date night. Both would be excellent, but different.

They had great happy hour specials and an assortment of tapas in the $7-15 range.

Because this was a belated Valentine’s Day date for us, we decided to splurge and do the “Journey Through Spain” 5 Course Dinner for 2, which was $79.50. Even though the price tag was a splurge for us, it was a steal considering all that it came with. We got to choose 3 different appetizers, 1 entree each, and a dessert. AND! When you opt for this dinner, you can take $20 off a bottle of select wines or pitchers of sangrias, so we did that as well. (Be careful, their sangria packs a punch!)

Even though the price tag was a splurge for us, it was a steal considering all that it came with.

Albóndigas al Jerez at Cafe Sevilla in Long Beach

Around the time we ordered, the live music started. It was Latin Jazz and the perfect volume for conversation. A few couples even got up and danced over the course of our dinner. It really added to the ambiance and the overall vibe was very romantic.

The overall vibe was very romantic.

So, back to the food. For our first appetizer, we chose the Albóndigas al Jerez, which was meatballs in a garlic wine sauce. It was light and delicious.

For our second appetizer, we ordered Grilled Spanish Salchichas, or flambéed sausages. This was extra fun because they came and flambéed them tableside. And who doesn’t love seeing a giant flame go up next to their table?

This was extra fun because they came and flambéed them tableside.

For our third app, we got the Mushroom and Fig Coca Flatbread. We normally stick to carnivore meals (as you may have noticed from our first 2 app choices), but this flatbread gave the meat apps a run for their money. It was surprisingly substantial for a meatless dish and almost could have been a meal of its own.

Mushroom and Coca Flatbread Cafe Sevilla Long Beach

It was surprisingly substantial for a meatless dish and almost could have been a meal of its own.

For our entrees, I got the salmon with a chimichurri sauce. It was cooked to perfection and I loved the black rice it came with. (Can you tell I’m not officially a food blogger? I’m sure it has a real name besides “black rice”, but it wasn’t on the menu, so just know that it’s an excellent bonus side dish.)

Jason got the 16 hour braised short ribs, which he also said were delicious and tender. Also around this time, we decided to order a flight of sangria so we could sample more flavors. I always thought sangria was just red wine and fruit, but there are so many varieties! And the flight is really aesthetically pleasing too.

I always thought sangria was just red wine and fruit, but there are so many varieties!

Almond Tarta de Santiago at Cafe Sevilla in Long Beach

And then the dessert came! It was an Almond Tarta de Santiago. It was sweet and moist and also practically could have been another meal, as well. It came out warm and tasted incredibly fresh. After we had eaten as much as we could (because we were already pretty stuffed!) we headed over to the nightclub for one last drink.

Our nightclub visit ended up being rather short (because sangria!) but we danced to a few songs and enjoyed the last of our romantic evening. We will definitely be returning for future date nights, and can’t wait to try out their salsa lessons on Tuesdays nights too.

ExploreLongBeach

The Most Romantic Valentine’s Day Events in Long Beach

Posted on February 11, 2019

Valentine's DInner at Cafe Sevilla in Long Beach

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner!

Are you looking for a romantic dinner? A cruise? An overnight stay? How about something for you and your pet? Check out this round up of where to spend Valentine’s Day 2019 in Long Beach!

Fuego at the Maya: A Four-Course Prix Fixe Menu with an Epic View, An Overnight Stay at Hotel Maya, or a Sunday Valentine’s Brunch

Fuego at the Maya in Long Beach

If you have never been to Fuego, it has a romantic vibe year-round. Indoor-outdoor seating, waterside fire pits, and live music. For Valentine’s Day dinner, you can purchase the 4 course-dinner for $105/person with optional wine pairing for an additional $30/person.

The menu boasts dishes such as the Pepper Crusted Waygu Beef with whiskey peppercorn sauce, Baja striped Bass with chipotle black bean sauce, and a Silky Lobster Bisque laced with Hennessey’s cognac. Reservations are required and you can make them at http://www.facebook.com/fuegolongbeach

Indoor-outdoor seating, waterside fire pits, and live music.

If you are looking for more than a dinner, they are offering a Valentine’s Day hotel package as well. The “Be Maya Valentine” package starts at $289/night and includes a complimentary water-view upgrade, a s’mores kit, and complimentary champagne breakfast for 2 in Fuego. You can call (562) 435-7676 to make reservations for Be Maya Valentine.

The “Be Maya Valentine” package includes a complimentary water-view upgrade, a s’mores kit, and complimentary champagne breakfast for 2 in Fuego.

Lastly, if going out on the big day isn’t your style, there will be a Valentine’s Day brunch the Sunday following Valentine’s day. This will include a complimentary glass of house champagne or mimosa, one entree, and an endless feast of the chef’s selection of salads. Fuego ceviche, Fuego taco station, and desserts. This brunch is $45 per adult and $18.50 for children 12 and under (sans entree.). Kids 3 and under are free.

My Vintage Valentine at the Queen Mary: A Four Course Dinner, A Vintage Burlesque Performance, A Tango Duet, and Contortionist Performances

My Vintage Valentine at the Queen Mary in Long Beach

Hop aboard the Queen Mary this Valentine’s Day for romance and classic glamour. Their four course dinner, which will be served in the Grand Salon, includes dishes such as the Asiago Crusted Organic Chicken Breast and Pan-Roasted Sea Bass. There will be a love story interwoven throughout the dinner courses with performances including burlesque dancers, tango duets, and a daring contortionist.

My Vintage Valentine has 2 seating times – one at 5:30 for $125/person, and one at 8:30 for $135/person. Following the dinner and show, guests are welcome to stay aboard and enjoy cocktails and music at the bar in the Windsor Salon. You can purchase tickets for My Vintage Valentine at https://www.queenmary.com/calendar-of-events/valentinesday/home/

There will be a love story interwoven throughout the dinner courses with performances including burlesque dancers, tango duets, and a daring contortionist.

The Chelsea’s Chowder House, which is also onboard the Queen Mary, will offer Valentine’s Day specials as well. Dinner service is from 5-10 p.m. on Sunday through Thursday, and 5-11pm on Friday’s and Saturday’s.

Cafe Sevilla: A Four-Course Dinner, A Flamenco Performance, and Complimentary Nightclub Access – Valentine’s Day AND Valentine’s Eve

Valentine’s DInner at Cafe Sevilla in Long Beach

Take a trip to Spain this Valentine’s Day at Cafe Sevilla. They will be offering a 4-course Valentine’s Day dinner and flamenco show for $69/person at 7 pm. The art of Flamenco expresses emotion and passion through dance, and many describe the experience of watching Flamenco performances as “moving.” You can compliment this diner with a $25 Spanish wine pairing, or select from their variety of specialty Valentine’s Day cocktails. This menu will be offered in their dining room as well for $59/person.

Want to beat the Valentine’s Day crowd? Celebrate Valentine’s Eve on February 13th instead! You can still enjoy their savory 4 course menu and flamenco show for $69/person, and the Valentine’s menu is available in the dining room on the 13th as well for $59/person..

The art of Flamenco expresses emotion and passion through dance, and many describe the experience of watching Flamenco performances as “moving.”

This package includes complimentary nightclub access so if you aren’t ready to call it a night after dinner and the show, get ready to dance! You will be amazed how the romantic atmosphere of the dining room turns a little bit spicy once you head to the nightclub! If you are looking for a way to end your evening on a sexy note, dancing at Sevilla is a sure way to do it.

You can visit the Cafe Sevilla website for more information or to make reservations, call: (562) 495-1111

Saint & Second: A Three Course Prix Fixe Dinner that Includes an Upscale Flair on All the Classics

Saint and Second in Belmont Shore in Long Beach

Saint & Second is known for its locally-sourced cuisine and hundreds of curated whiskeys. If you are looking for classic American entrees with an upscale flair, this is the place for you this Valentine’s Day. Their three course prix fixe menu lets you choose from dishes such as Colorado Rack of Lamb with hazelnut pesto and a Grilled Maine Half Lobster with a truffle beurre blanc.

Saint & Second is known for its locally-sourced cuisine and hundreds of curated whiskeys.

Desserts include options such as their famous Peanut Butter Cinnamon roll and their Brandy and Vanilla Braised Pineapple. The Saint and Second Valentine’s Day dinner is $75/person with optional wine pairing for an additional $30, and reservations can be made on their website.

Spirit Cruises: A Romantic Dinner and a 2.5 Hour Cruise Around the Harbor

Spirit Cruises in the Long Beach Harbor

Celebrate Valentine’s Day on the water! Spirit Cruises is offering a 2.5 hour cruise along with a decadent dinner and table-side champagne pours for $89/person. Dinner includes a Classic Caesar Salad and entrees such as Filet Mignon and Baked Salmon Filet. You can get either white wine or champagne poured at your table and after-dinner well cocktails at the bar.

If you have never taken a Spirit Cruise, get ready to see the harbor as you’ve never seen it before. The views of Shoreline Village, the Queen Mary, and the coastline are beautiful.

The views of Shoreline Village, the Queen Mary, and the coastline are beautiful.

There are 2 seatings on Valentine’s Day – from 6-8:30pm or from 9-11:30pm. There is an additional cruise on Saturday night if you want to avoid the Valentine’s Day crowd or have work the next morning.

You can reserve your spot by calling (310) 548 – 8080

Aquarium of the Pacific: A Three Course Dinner Under the Sea

Valentine’s Day at the Aquarium of the Pacific

Take a trip under the sea this Valentine’s Day at the Aquarium of the Pacific. Their cash-bar will open at 7 pm where you can gaze upon the harbor from the rooftop Veranda. Dinner will be served in the Great Hall at 7:30 pm and will include Cabernet-braised beef short ribs with piquillo pepper cream sauce and a pistachio cake with hibiscus puree for dessert. There is a specialty entree upon request for those who are Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-free, or Dairy-free. (Must be requested at time of ticket purchase.)

Their cash-bar will open at 7 pm where you can gaze upon the harbor from the rooftop Veranda

The price for tickets is $79 for members and $89 for non-members (which if you are not a member, I highly suggest joining because there are a ton of cool things to do here.). You can upgrade to VIP tickets for an additional $20 and be seated in one of the galleries where you can be up close to one of their exhibits.

You can find out more or purchase tickets for Valentine’s Day at the Aquarium of the Pacific on their website.

Healthy Spot: Puppy Love Yappy Hour for your Furry Valentine

Puppy Love Yappy Hour at The Healthy Spot in Long Beach

Does your real Valentine have fur? Do you wish there was a way to celebrate with him or her where they could also enjoy other dogs? Check out Puppy Love Yappy hour. This FREE event will be held on February 12th from 6pm-8pm at Healthy Spot in Long Beach. The event includes cocktails and snacks for humans (must be 21+ for cocktails); refreshments, cookies, and treats for pups – provided by The Honest Kitchen; and of course the company of other loving pets and pet parents.

The event includes cocktails and snacks for humans, and refreshments, cookies, and treats for pups

To attend this event, your pet must be current on all vaccines and be on-leash throughout the entire event.

Tickets for Puppy Love Yappy Hour can be reserved online. You can also contact social@healthyspot.com with any additional questions.

If you are busy on February 12th and don’t mind making the drive, there will be additional events on February 13th in both LA and Marina del Rey.

ExploreLongBeach

The Social List, Long Beach: Farm Fresh Ingredients and a Trendy Vibe

Posted on January 30, 2019

The Social List is a Modern European tavern on Retro Row in Long Beach that is known for its tasty brunch.

They host various social events that make everyone feel like family, including whiskey tasting and art shows. Their ingredients are fresh and locally sourced, and everything is made in-house.

The Social List is known for its tasty brunch.

We visited over the weekend for brunch and the first thing I noticed was that it was busy! But what can you expect with fresh ingredients and bottomless mimosas?! I had the Chicken Fried Steak and Eggs, with my eggs over easy. Their homemade gravy includes pork chorizo (yum!), and the biscuit is fresh-baked.

Their homemade gravy includes pork chorizo, and the biscuit is fresh-baked.

Chicken Fried Steak and Eggs at The Social List

I also got a side of their homemade salsa that they make daily in small batches for brunch. It was oh-so-fresh and the perfect amount of spicy for me (Take a small bite first if you don’t like spice – it packs some heat.) The breading on the chicken somehow managed to stay crispy underneath all the gravy (lots of gravy!!) and the chicken was moist. I probably could have split this entree with a girlfriend because it was rich and filling.

Their homemade salsa is made daily in small batches for brunch.

My first drink was a mimosa, which you can get bottomless at brunch for $16. It was refreshing, and you could tell the OJ in it was fresh-squeezed.

For my second drink, I wanted to try something The Social List is known for, so I asked our server, and he recommended the Triple Crown. It’s their take on a Whiskey Sour, but a strong one, in my opinion. It came with their logo on the top of the foam, which I thought was pretty cool. It also had a bit of a kick, so I asked our server what made it spicy and he told me they make their own honey habanero syrup, which they use in place of a simple syrup that would go in a traditional whiskey sour.

They make their own honey habanero syrup.

Triple Crown Whiskey Drink at The Social List

He also told me their staff tastes every batch of the honey habanero syrup, because peppers vary in spice (something I knew from my serving days! I used to get a lot of complaints when customers would order the same jalapeño dish twice and the first time it was medium spicy and the next it was practically inedible!). The staff tastes each batch of the honey habanero syrup and rates it for spice level. Then it’s labeled so the bartenders know how much to use to keep the spice level constant in their drinks.

Kids’ meals were $6 – grilled cheese, mac n cheese, chicken tenders, spaghetti and meatballs, or PB&J.

They had kids’ options as well. Prices were $6 for grilled cheese, mac n cheese, chicken tenders, spaghetti and meatballs, or PB&J. They come with fries and milk. I thought $6 was really reasonable for a kids’ meal. If I wanted to bring mine for brunch, I might call ahead and ask for a corner table, if possible. They’re 1.5 and 3.5 years old so they tend to get up a lot and on a busy weekend, I wouldn’t want them to get underfoot.

Everything is fresh and locally sourced.

Prices in general were reasonable. They were closer to the high-end when compared with similar dishes at other restaurants, but when you look at the fact that everything is fresh and locally sourced, that’s to be expected. I’m okay with paying a dollar or two more to get quality ingredients. (Burgers/sandwiches were around $12 to get an idea.) Speaking of prices, they also add a 3% surcharge to every bill to cover health insurance for all full-time employees. You are not required to pay it, and if you don’t want to, you can ask to have it removed from your bill. I think it’s great that they offer health insurance, so to me an extra 3% is worth it (and even more reason to continue being a patron!)

They offer health insurance to all full-time employees.

You can find The Social List menu on their website. You’ll see they also have some Vegetarian and Vegan options. They have a happy hour from 3pm – 6 pm, Monday – Friday. I will definitely be back to try more of their dishes!

ExploreLongBeach

The 6 Best Spots to Watch the Super Bowl in Long Beach

Posted on January 29, 2019

Where is the best place to watch the Super Bowl in Long Beach? Well, that really depends on what you’re looking for. Long Beach is such a diverse city with a huge variety of restaurants, and there is really something for everybody. Check out this guide to find the best place to meet your Super Bowl needs:

For the DRINKER: Panama Joe’s

Panama Joe’s Super Bowl Specials

You know what the Super Bowl is really about: Drinking. I mean football! (But also, drinking…) Panama Joe’s is where you will get the most bang for your buck if you’re going to be doing some drinking, because they’re offering an open bar from 3:30 until the end of the 3rd quarter. This includes wells, calls, premiums, beer, and wine (shots are excluded.) Tickets can be purchased for $39.99/person. They sell out every year, so make sure to purchase asap if you want to reserve a spot. There will be a variety of food specials ranging from $1.99 old-school tacos to steak or chicken fajita plates that come with all the toppings. They will be raffling off over $1000 in prizes, including Laker’s tickets at halftime. Don’t forget to enter their Super Hot Wing eating contest – if you think you can handle the heat. Winner gets $100!

Rasselbock food and drinks

For the BEER CONNOISSEUR: Rasselbock

You like your sports, but premium beer is also up there on your priority list. You’re not about to watch the Big Game while drinking regular domestic beer. Rasselbock is your place. They have 35 different German and Belgian beers, homemade Sangria, and a great selection of German and Californian wines. They have fresh and authentic German cuisine, including Vegan, Vegetarian, and kid-friendly dishes. There are a lot of small plate options as well that are perfect for sharing (the sausage platter is to-die-for!) Everybody dressed in football jerseys will get happy hour pricing (25% off!!) and they will be offering food specials all day. They are taking reservations, so be sure to call and reserve your spot.

For the ULTIMATE SPORTS FAN: Legends

Legend’s Long Beach Big Screen TV

You’re here for the big game. I mean, this is the SUPER BOWL! You aren’t going to settle for anything less than a big screen because you don’t want to miss anything. Legends is your spot. They have the largest HD quality projection television in the country, as well as one of the largest private collections of sports memorabilia. They have a ton of snacky apps, including their fried pickles and their “not your mom’s popcorn” – my fav is the lemon cayenne flavor! There is a $10 cover charge the day of the Super Bowl and Legends will not be taking reservations, so make sure you get there early to claim a spot. The price of cover also includes a raffle ticket and they will be raffling off prizes over the course of the day – including skateboards, surf boards, mountain bikes, and more.

Ashley’s on Fourth Beer-Brined Smoked Ribs

For the DIVE BAR LOVER AND SECRET FOODIE: Ashley’s On Fourth

Do you wish you could go somewhere with the low-key vibes of a dive bar, but that is still clean and has good food? Ashley’s on Fourth is your spot! Since the new owners took over, Ashley’s still boasts all of the desirable qualities of a dive bar – pool tables, arcade games, and karaoke nights, but with an updated menu. Think a fresh take on classic bar foods. You can still find tacos, burgers, and hot dogs, but with a farm-fresh look and a little bit of flair.

For the Super Bowl Ashleys will be reservation-only, so book ASAP. A table for 4 is $100 and includes 2 drinks/person and a shared BBQ platter for the table upon arrival (or Vegetarian option.) $25/extra person and 10 person max. Table will be available 1 hour prior to kick off. There will be table service all throughout the game and discounts on food and drinks all day. $50 deposit required to book, full refund issued with 48 hour cancelation notice.

For the SPORTS FAN WHO LOVES A FAMILIAR VIBE : Long Beach Pizza Co

Long Beach Pizza Co Food and Drink

You want to go somewhere “where everybody knows your name.” (Yes, I’m old enough to make a Cheers reference!) Your spot is the Long Beach Pizza Co. Okay, so maybe if you have never been there, they won’t ACTUALLY know your name, but it still has a really intimate feel. The Long Beach Pizza Co has good vibes, great Italian food, is family-friendly, and has low prices. (Seriously, amazing prices for the food they have. No one tell them they could charge way more for their incredible Italian food! ) For the Big Game, Dos Equis Amber and Becks will be $3.50 and a large 2 topping pizza + 10 pieces wings will be $19.99. They will be taking reservations so call to reserve your spot!

For the BUFFALO WING ADDICT (dine-in or take-out!): Cali Shrimp and Wingz House

Cali Shrimp N Wingz

Get ready for gourmet wings in TWENTY FIVE different flavors. Cali Shrimp and Wingz is a new wing house in Long Beach and it’s owned by a chef, so you know the flavors are good. They will be showing the Big Game at the restaurant, there is no cover, and they are not taking reservations so it’s first-come, first-served. There is no alcohol yet (they are awaiting a license) so this could be a great spot for the non-drinker or someone who wants to avoid the Super Bowl drinkers. They are also taking orders if you are watching at home and want to impress your guests with your tasty game-day spread. You can pick up or they do delivery so you don’t even have to leave your couch! There is a 50 wing MINIMUM. Orders need to be in by this Thursday, so don’t delay on placing your order.

ExploreLongBeach

Halloween Weekend Long Beach 2018

Posted on October 26, 2018

Get ready for a spooooky weekend! Here are some of the Halloween events going on Friday the 26th, Saturday the 27th, and Sunday the 28th.

Friday

Pumpkin Decorating Party 4-8 pm

Long Beach Creamery Downtown

222 East Broadway

Friday October 26th 4:00 – 8:00 pm

Come join us at our Downtown location for a festive crafty party!

$5 allows you to choose a style of pumpkin to DIY with the help of our friendly ice cream ambassadors!
Will you choose the classic vampire bat, with googly eyes? Or maybe the donut, how deliciously adorable!

YMCA Haunted Maze 5-9 pm

Shoreline Village

401 – 435 Shoreline Village Drive

Stop by this Halloween season and enjoy our YMCA Haunted Maze. Located above Shenanigan’s, the maze will be open to the public starting October 12.

For only $6 you can buy a ticket to the end of the world. Test your survival skills through a maze of post-apocalyptic thrill for all ages. Will you survive or become get left behind? Find out who’s “most likely to survive a zombie annihilation” amongst your friends and family!

Los “Scare” rritos Trunk or Treat 530 – 7 pm

Los Cerritos Elementary

515 W San Antonio Drive

A free trunk or treating event for all families.

Prizes for best costume: most original, spookiest & funniest!

NEW ACTIVITIES ADDED:
Food truck, craft table, Club Los “Scare”-rritos – A fun dance party for kids, raffle ticket sales with a grand prize of Disneyland tickets (proceeds will go towards Outdoor Science Program)

Raffle tickets are available at event or presale by contacting Cynthia capgerhart@gmail.com

Trunk participation RSVP to angelleatham7064@gmail.com OR sign up in the office
********* cars arrive @ 5pm for set up

Candy DONATIONS graciously accepted in the office

4th Fridays on 4th Street 6-9 pm

4th Street between Temple and Cherry

Halloween events include:

Trick or Treating, Sideshow Street Performers, Aura Photo Booth, Local Artists, Live Music, Mariachi Divas, Make-Up Artists, Pumpkin Patch, Creature Crawl Marching Band, and for an extra special treat, we have famous Mentalist / Magician, Mark Edward who will be playing the infamous fortune teller Zoltar at the Art Theater ticket booth.

Be sure to stop by the Art Hot Spots and check out the special events at these participating businesses……

CASA DE LUXE
1930 E. 4TH ST
Pop Ups: Life After Death Arts, Stay Anchored, BYO Long Beach, Lovely Little Bags in Long Beach, Graciela’s Goodies, Made by YUB baked goods

SALUD JUICE
1944 E 4TH ST
Pumpkin Painting + Art Hot Spot – art vendors

HOBO JANE BOUTIQUE
412 CHERRY AVE
Pirates of Bohemia popping up with amazing jewelry. Live Music by Gino Martez

FAR OUTFIT
2020 E 4TH ST
Halloween Party Costume Contest EVERY HOUR 7-9, Halloween Movies, Selfie Wall, Prizes for Best Costumes, Games, Drinks and Snacks and CANDY. All Ages. Come in costume or “get killed” at the door.

ART THEATRE OF LONG BEACH
2025 E 4TH ST
Face painting, Mark Edward as Zoltar

ART DU VIN
2027 E 4TH ST
Canele Chocolate: Gourmet Chocolate featuring delicious superfood treats including truffles, buttercups, bonbons, and wellness bites.

ARTISTIC EDGE ART AND FRAMING
410 ST LOUIS AVE
David Weidman Art Show. Portfolio showing at 6:30pm by his daughter Lenna Weidman. We will also have music by Jon Zell., Moon Cat café.

THE HANGOUT
2120 E 4TH ST
Pop Up w/ Loose Change Rings, Pirates of Bohemia Henna & Kerra with her Halloween Makeup, Live Band, DJ, High Priestess/Priest Costimum Contest, Devils Stew, Devils Brews, Voodoo Freak Show Performers, Tarot Reader & Artists Pop Up in the Garden

THE SOCIAL LIST
2105 E 4TH ST
Special Vendors, Live artist, Live Music by TED

TREBOR/NEVETS
2116 E 4TH ST
Live Music by Mark Rufus Anthony

4TH ST VINE
2142 E 4TH ST
Live DJ by DJ Eusebio Akasa and DJ DustDigg

MEOW
2210 E 4TH ST
Live Music by Katie Ferrara

THIRD EYE RECORDS
2234 E 4TH ST
Punk Rock Art & Photo Exhibit from 6pm-10pm.

SONGBIRD BOUTIQUE
2240 E 4TH ST
Face Painting and art for sale by @rickstache0. Pirates of Bohemia – tooth candy charms, henna, hair wraps, jewelry, custom-made jewelry while you wait, glitter tattoos and organic blue jagua tattoos. Art Hotspot, Mannequin American

PORTFOLIO COFFEEHOUSE
2300 E 4TH ST
Art Opening by Daniel Gavin & Art Hot Spot- art vendors, live music.

Lastly, to help you learn more about great happenings in Long Beach, we have a great list of community vendors including, all along Aids Assistance Thrift Store and The Center.

Costumes Encouraged!! ?

Bike Valet on St. Louis and free trolley rides provided from 6-9pm.

This month, we’ll be donating proceeds from our 4th Street tote bags to Burbank Elementary.

#FOURTHFRIDAYS is a free year-round event hosted monthly by 4th Street Long Beach

Halloween Family Night 630 – 930 pm

Aquarium of the Pacific

100 Aquarium Way

Halloween Family Night

Dress up in your coolest costume and trick or treat through our exhibits with your family and friends. Our upcoming Halloween Family Night will offer a unique opportunity to explore the Aquarium, make a craft, learn about animal blood types, investigate touch pool animals, and venture into our famous Biofact Boneyard.

WHEN
FRIDAY, OCT 26, 2018 | 6:30 PM–9:30 PM

COST
$17.95 per person.

Members get in free.

Dark Harbor 7 pm – 1am

The Queen Mary

1126 Queens Hwy

Southern California’s most authentically terrifying haunt will once again rise from the depths on September 27. Regarded as one of the most haunted places on Earth, the Queen Mary’s Dark Harbor is a thrill-seekers’ delight, blurring the lines of history and hysteria, and
this year, you’ll find yourself disoriented with an entirely NEW park footprint along with NEW maze designs, INTERACTIVE alternate paths, and THRILLING live entertainment.

Starting September 27 – November 2, General Admission ticket prices start at just $20 online with optional limited upgrades to:
• Fast Fright
• ALL-NEW Evil Express Pass
• VIP
• Ultimate Scream Experience
• Creepy Cabanas
• Private Patios (available while supplies last).
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.queenmary.com/dark-harbor.

Saturday

Day of the Dead Family Festival 10 am – 5pm

Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA)

628 Alamitos Ave

Explore Día de los Muertos, a vibrant celebration of life and loved ones at MOLAA’s annual family festival! Learn more about this cultural tradition through art workshops, live performances, gallery tours, face painting, food and unique craft vendors. Día de los Muertos attire strongly encouraged – Come dressed as a calavera!

FREE ADMISSION

—

Event Schedule:

10:00 – 11:00AM
Mask-making workshop
(Robert Gumbiner Park)

10:45AM
Semillitas Pre-School & Kalpulli Tlaltekuhtli Aztec Dancers performance
(Robert Gumbiner Park)

11:00AM
Semillitas Pre-School & Kalpulli Tlaltekuhtli Aztec Dancers procession
(Robert Gumbiner Park / MOLAA)

11:00 – 4:30PM
Art workshops, Interactive activities, Sugar Skull decoration, Face Painting, Live DJ sets with #DJZibaZ
(Viva Event Center)

11:00 – 5:00PM
Craft vendors, Food / Drink vendors
(back lot)

12:30PM
Children’s Story Time
(Screening Room)

2:00 – 3:00PM
Docent Tours of the Galleries
(meet in lobby)

Sculpture Garden Performances:

11:45AM – 12:45PM
LA Opera’s Zarzuela Project with Mariachi Voz de America

1:30 – 2:30PM
Ballet Folklorico Nueva Antequera with Maqueos Music Philharmonic Band

3:30 – 4:30PM
Romero Y Perez (Spanish Fusion: classic flamenco with a modern twist)

Healthy Halloween Festival 11am – 2pm

Farm Lot 59

2714 California Ave

Dress up and Join us for our 4th Annual Healthy Halloween Festival on Farm Lot 59!
A Portion of Ticket Sales go Toward Funding the Farm Lot!
No Tricks, only Healthy Treats and Fun for the Whole Family!
Reminders
*Bring a Bag for Treats!
*Bring water (there will be a water refilling station)
*Wear sensible shoes that walk well on dirt and grass
*Be festive and come ready for fun!
Schedule
-Drums and Drum Circle throughout the event
-Farm Lot Tour at 10am and 1pm
-Kids Yoga TBA
Parking
*Please use event address and directions on FarmLot59.org
*When you arrive at the farm, there will be a parking attendant to direct you. Once parking inside the gates fill up, you are welcome to park on the neighboring streets, just not along California ave. Please make sure you park to the side and do not block any roads.

Long Beach Zombie Walk 2pm – 10 pm

Shoreline Village

401-435 Shoreline Village Drive

Calling all rotting, brain-eating, flesh-dripping folks in varying states of decay! Join Shoreline Village this Saturday, October 27 for an all-day celebration of all things Undead from 2pm to 10pm, including live music, vendors, outdoor movies, trick-or-treating, and of course, a ghoulish walk/shuffle down Rainbow Harbor – FREE, courtesy of your hosts at Shoreline Village and participating sponsors!

We’re teaming up with Long Beach Stuff, The Frida Cinema, and the team behind the original Long Beach Zombie Walk to bring you a ghastly day to remember, kicking off with live music by Long Beach talents at 2pm, outdoor movies when the sun goes down, and at 8pm, a Zombie Walk through Shoreline Village and Rainbow Harbor!

PARKING INFO

Shoreline Village parking WILL sell out for this event! In the event that you arrive after our lot (401-435 Shoreline Village Dr., Long Beach, CA 90802) is full, we recommend parking in either of the lots listed below:

Aquarium Parking/Queensway Bay Garage
99 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, CA 90802

Self-Park:
The first 30 minutes are free
30 min to 1.5 hours – $3
1.5 to 2.5 hours – $6
2.5 to 4 hours – $9
4 to 5 hours – $12
5 to 8 hours – $15
8 to 24 hours – $16

Long Beach Convention Center lot
Pine Ave/Seaside Way, Long Beach, CA 90802
Parking is $15 per car per entry

-We will have a FREE BIKE VALET again this year for anyone who wants to ride their bike

SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES:

YMCA Youth Institute Haunted Maze
2PM – 9PM

VENDOR/SPONSOR VILLAGE
2PM – 10PM
– DJ Thin Man spinning dark, Goth, and Halloween tunes at Sponsor Village!
– The Thick Shake Factory, California
– Red Eye Media tee-shirts
– Zombie Mobile!
– Specialty Shopping

SHORELINE VILLAGE GROOVY GHOULIE MAIN STAGE
2PM – CALYXA
3PM – LA TROIENNE
4PM – DATE NIGHT
5PM – SAINT SHIVERS
6PM – MODUS
7PM – JANE AUSTRONAUT
8PM – DCHAV
9PM – FELLOW ROBOT

SHORELINE TRICK-OR-TREATING*
2PM – 10PM
* Children 12 and under, and must be in costume! Participating businesses are throughout Shoreline Village.

THROUGHOUT SHORELINE VILLAGE
2PM-10PM, Shoreline Village Trick-or-Treating
4:30PM – 7:30PM – Halloween Face Painting for Kids
5PM – Magic Show #1
5PM – 8PM – Spooky Balloon Art
5PM – 9PM – Caricature Artist
6PM – 9PM – Lindsey Hundley and Ghouls
6PM – 8PM – Fortune Teller
7PM – Magic Show #2
8PM – Stilt Walker

PORT OF LONG BEACH OUTDOOR CINEMA
5PM -Acrobatic Zombie Performance #1
6PM – Acrobatic Zombie Performance #2
6:15PM – NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD
7:45PM – Acrobatic Zombie Performance #3
8PM – SHAUN OF THE DEAD

SPECIALTY FOOD & DRINKS AT SHORELINE VILLAGE
Funnel House: Pumpkin-pie snicker-doodles, pumpkin ice cream & yogurt!
Shenanigans Irish Pub & Grille: Specialty Drinks – Papa’s skinny potion & astral margarita elixir!
Louisiana Charlie’s: Specialty Drinks – Orange Scream!

And of course…the LONG BEACH ZOMBIE WALK at 8pm!

Share our event with your fellow lovers of all things spooky, and celebrate Halloween weekend with us at Shoreline Village! See you on the 27th!

THIS IS A FREE EVENT + REQUIRES NO TICKETS

Howl-oween Festival 2 pm – 6pm

El Dorado Nature Center

7550 Spring Street

$5 per person at the gate. Children under 5 free.
Parking is $7.00.
Last trail entry at 5:00pm, Event ends at 6pm.

Join us for creepy crawlers and haunted hoots, as you trick and treat your way along the trails! Don’t forget to wear your Howl-oween finest.
For more information please call (562) 570-1745.
This is a family friendly event. Parent participation is required for children under 16 years of age.

Spooktacular Halloween Carnival 3pm

Hamburger Marys

330 Pine Ave

??HALLOWEEN CARNIVAL ??

OCTOBER 27th NO COVER!
3pm-6pm

It’s just an old fashion family oriented day with some fun holiday games!

This event is all ages!!!

PIE EATING
BOBBING FOR APPLES
PUMPKIN ? CARVING
DRESS UP COMPETITION
AND THROW A PIE AT YOUR FAVORITE DRAG QUEENS

Even a little impromptu drag show!

All money raised will go directly to the Imperial Court of Long Beach!

Hosted by the NUMBER ONE CLOWN

PSYCADELLA!

Along with Empress SABREENA!
And some very special guests to added !

COME SHOW YOUR SPOOKY SPIRIT!

Party at the Boathouse 5pm – 12 am

Boathouse on the Bay

190 N Marina Drive

Join us at the Boathouse on the Bay for our annual Halloween Party and Costume Contest with Prizes! Featuring the spooktacular sounds of Trish & Buzzy starting at 9 PM. Costume Contest with Prizes at 10:30 PM!

YMCA Haunted Maze 5-9 pm

Shoreline Village

401 – 435 Shoreline Village Drive

Stop by this Halloween season and enjoy our YMCA Haunted Maze. Located above Shenanigan’s, the maze will be open to the public starting October 12.

Spooktoberfest

Rasselbock

4020 Atlantic Ave

Joins us for our Spooktoberfest celebration on Saturday, 10/27 starting at 6pm. This special event is as well our last day of our Oktoberfest celebration for 2018 and features German Zombie staff, spooky decoration, live music and our costume contest (scariest outfit wins a Rasselbock gift card)!
Bring your friends. Prost!

Dark Harbor 7 pm – 1am

The Queen Mary

1126 Queens Hwy

Sunday

Fall Fest 12 pm – 3pm

The Pike Outlets

95 South Pine Avenue

Join us for the Fall Fest at The Pike Outlets on Sunday, October 28, 2018, 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. located in the Main Plaza.

Enjoy FREE trick or treating around The Pike Outlets’ stores, face painting, and magic shows! Purchase a Halloween craft for $2.00 and all proceeds will be donated to The Boys & Girls Clubs of Long Beach.

Costumes encouraged, but please no masks. Enter our costume contest at the event for a chance to win a $100 Gift Card to The Pike Outlets. Post a photo of your child’s costume on The Pike Outlets’ Facebook Page by 10/29 to enter. Pet costumes are also welcome!

We hope to see you there!

Trick or Treat at Farmer’s Marketplace 10 am – 2 pm

Farmer’s Marketplace of Long Beach

5000 E Spring Street

Trick n Treat at the Farmers Marketplace of Long Beach. FREE Trick n Treat bag at the information booth. Come out for a fun day of Trick n Treating all the vendor booths. FREE Face-painting, jumper slide, & kids play area. Wear your costumes!

Certified farm fresh produce, organic chicken, honey, fresh seafood, hot foods, bakery & pastries, eggs coffee, roasted peanuts, Italian Gelato & Sorbetto, speciality vendors, Live Entertainment, shaded dining area.

KLBP Presents Beetlejuice 11am – 2pm

Art Theatre of Long Beach

2025 E 4th Street

Dust off your dancing shoes and get ready to jump in the line for KLBP’s inaugural Movies and Mimosas series with a special screening of Tim Burton’s cult-classic, Beetlejuice!

Bring the whole family out for this fun-filled event and help support the launch of KLBP, Long Beach Public Radio.

Costumes strongly encouraged! Opportunity drawing and more fun surprises TBA!

About Beetlejuice

After Barbara (Geena Davis) and Adam Maitland (Alec Baldwin) die in a car accident, they find themselves stuck haunting their country residence, unable to leave the house. When the unbearable Deetzes (Catherine O’Hara, Jeffrey Jones) and teen daughter Lydia (Winona Ryder) buy the home, the Maitlands attempt to scare them away without success. Their efforts attract Beetlejuice (Michael Keaton), a rambunctious spirit whose “help” quickly becomes dangerous for the Maitlands and innocent Lydia.

Rated PG, 1 hour, 33 mins

Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/beetlejuice-tickets-51327045575?aff=efbeventtix&fbclid=IwAR33EiCnMLOF-1hvAKBpTeCGfp4F7sHnhVSVgTJrXTZmk2Lhon4lYmiyjmc

Belmont Fall Festival 12pm – 2pm

Sound House Church

365 Monrovia Ave

You’re invited to attend the Belmont Fall Festival sponsored by Sound House Church on Oct. 28th! We will have a rock wall, petting zoo, trackless train, carnival games and more! We will also have T.K. Burgers handing out $5 meals from their food truck. This is a free event that the entire family can enjoy.
The festivities begin at 12 p.m. at Will Rogers Middle School in Belmont Shore and will last until 2 p.m. All are welcome to attend.
*Please do not wear scary costumes*

Subtract on the Pier of Fear 2pm – 10 pm

Belmont Pier

15 39th Place

Tickets >> SUBTRACTMUSIC.COM/PIER
Halloween Edition – best costume wins a very special prize!
Legend is a word used all too often these days, but when it comes to Doc Martin, there’s hardly a better description of the humble man that has been there from the very beginning. Easily one of our favorite DJs, he whips the dance floor into an absolute frenzy every time he’s behind the decks. For the 30th edition of Subtract On The Pier, he will be performing an extended 5 hour B2B set with our founder Anton Tumas. Supporting set by Junior.

Doc Martin
Sublevel • Crosstown Rebels
soundcloud.com/sublevel-music

Anton Tumas
Subtract Music • Love Long Beach
soundcloud.com/antontumas

Junior
Sunny Side Up

Tickets
Presale tickets highly recommended
subtractmusic.com/pier

Location
Belmont Veterans Memorial Pier
(End of the pier)
15 39th Place
Long Beach, CA 90803

Sound
Subtract x Danley Sound Labs

Travel
Plenty of street and paid parking

Amenities
Fully stocked bar and food menu
Upstairs lounge with open air ocean views

Terms And Conditions
All ticket sales are final
No outside food or drinks
No backpacks or satchels
No purses larger than 8.5″ x 11″
21+ with government issued ID

Follow our Instagram to win tickets
https://www.instagram.com/subtractmusic

Haute Dog Howloween Parade 230 pm

Marina Vista Park

5355 E Eliot St

Justin Rudd and his Community Action Team host the biggest Halloween pet event in whe world. There is a vendor and pet adoption fair from 12:30-4:30 p.m., but the highlight of the day is the 500+ costumed dogs as they parade a few blocks in front of a few thousand gawkers and a panel of judges.

The winner will get dog food for a year from Belmont LaunderPet and Zignature.

There is no charge for humans to walk in the parade (with or without costumes and with or without pets), and it’s free to spectate.

Co-hosted by Councilwoman Suzie Price.
Howloween.info

Facebook page: www.facebook.com/Howloween

YMCA Haunted Maze 5-9 pm

Shoreline Village

401 – 435 Shoreline Village Drive

Stop by this Halloween season and enjoy our YMCA Haunted Maze. Located above Shenanigan’s, the maze will be open to the public starting October 12.

Haunted Atlantis 630 pm – 9 pm

Aquarium of the Pacific

100 Aquarium Way

Celebrate Halloween with a DJ dance party for kids under 18 and their families!

The Aquarium will transform into a dance club for kids and their parents to celebrate Halloween with Haunted Atlantis, presented in partnership with Kids Dance Society. Dance alongside hula hoopers and Circuit Breaker the dancing robot. Snap a photo in the photo booth and add to your look with face painting and glitter tattoos. Glow items and LED flashing accessories will be available for purchase. Family friendly costumes welcome. Parents can sit back and enjoy drinks and snacks in the Great Hall. The entire Aquarium will be open during this event, except Lorikeet Forest.

Kids Dance Society transforms Los Angeles nightclubs and private exclusive venues into a family-friendly daytime dancing event, where children and their adults can listen and dance to electronic dance music, current club music and mixes provided by known and respected DJs. Kids can see live performances by professional dancers, hula hoopers, stilt walkers and much more. Its events for both adults and children are a new way to bring families together to dance, inspire, create and share together positive vibes in a community of like spirits, in an environment that is both safe and stimulating for all.

Also meet our Pacific Pals puppets roaming through the galleries to learn fascinating and funny facts about the ocean. You can also join #TeamOcean and come up with ideas for how to keep our ocean healthy in a new film showing in our Ocean Science Center. This new Science on a Sphere show from XPrize’s Ocean Initiative aims to inspire people of all ages to come up with new ways to create a better future for our ocean and its inhabitants.

WHEN
SUNDAY, OCT 28, 2018 | 6:30 PM–9:00 PM

COST
Cost: $25 per person; $23 per Aquarium member; and under 3 is free.

TICKETS
Click here to purchase your tickets!
https://tickets.aquariumofpacific.org/WebStore/shop/ViewItems.aspx?Merchant=AOPKDS&CategoryGroupExternalID=KDS&CategoryExternalID=KDS

Members, please call to purchase your discounted tickets.

RSVP/
INFO
(562) 590-3100, ext. 0

Dark Harbor 7 pm – 12am

The Queen Mary

1126 Queens Hwy

ExploreLongBeach

The Love Long Beach Festival

Posted on July 19, 2018

Getting ready for Love Long Beach!

Happy 6th anniversary to the Love Long Beach Festival! (Click here if you don’t need to read about it because you already KNOW you want tickets!)

This annual event is put on by Subtract Music and Alfredo’s Beach Club, and is always a great time. There will be 2 stages this year with DJs spinning EDM and Dance music, as well as yoga, art, food, drinks, and activities for kids.

There will be 2 stages this year with DJs spinning EDM and Dance music, as well as yoga, art, food, drinks, and activities for kids.

I know what you’re thinking: kids at a music festival?! But this is actually a family friendly event! We go every year with our kids and they always have a blast.

Katie painting at Love Long Beach 2017

Last summer’s family-friendly activities included a drum circle, hula hoops, yoga, and painting, amongst other things. (So dress for mess if you plan on letting your littles paint!)

The vibes here are unlike anywhere else I’ve been. We like to go with the kids one day so we can enjoy it as a family, and without the kids one day so we can have some grown up fun! It’s nice to let loose and dance without having to keep track of 2 littles! Especially because once the sun goes down, the real action begins.

Once the sun goes down, the real action begins!

Fire dancing at Love Long Beach 2017

If you are a local, you know that this festival used to be held at the Granada Boat launch, but summer of 2017 it was moved to Shoreline Aquatic Park due to its increase in size. They also had to start charging a small ticket fee ($15/person, 16 and under still free) to accommodate all the things that go along with a larger crowd. Trust me when I say that you get way more than you pay for.

Bring a blanket or folding chairs and post up for the day and enjoy the people watching (it’s AMAZING), the vibes, the music, the food, and of course there is booze for adults. Make a point to join in some of the activities as well. While this is technically a “music festival”, it is nothing short of an experience.

Katie learning to drum at Love Long Beach 2017

Click here to get more details and a list of prohibited items

Click here to get tickets.

I DON’T WANT TO READ – GIVE ME A RECAP:

Hours: July 27th and 28th, 11 am – 10 pm

Cost: $15/person. 16 and under are free. Buy tickets here.

Stroller Friendly: Yes, it was easy to navigate with the stroller

Alcohol: Yes

Parking: NOT at Shoreline Aquatic Park but there is a parking garage near The Pike Outlets. We recommend walking, public transportation, or biking if possible (there is a free bike valet!)

Food: No outside food or drinks for adults, but baby/toddler foods and drinks are okay.

Quick Tips for families:

-Bring earplugs for the kids if you’re going to be close to the music.

-Bring sunscreen because shade is limited.

-Depending on how long you’re going to be staying, you might want a blanket to throw down so you have somewhere to post up. If you plan on staying and enjoying the music for a while, I would suggest also bringing some snacks and toys for the kids. My toddler played legos for a little bit between dancing sessions.

Location: Shoreline Aquatic Park, 200 Aquarium Way, Long Beach CA 90802

ExploreLongBeach

Long Beach Aquarium of the Pacific

Posted on July 15, 2018

Our aquarium visit was: 20% looking at aquatic life, 40% playing outside in the water, 10% crying because the other sibling was being lifted up to look at an exhibit, 10% whining about the heat, 10% bumping into the stroller and spilling Mom’s beer, and 10% eating snacks, but overall, the kids had a blast.

Penguins, sea lions, frogs, all types of fish, sharks, and rays

The Long Beach Aquarium of the Pacific is one of our favorite outings because there is so much to do for all ages. There is obviously a ton of aquatic life. Penguins, sea lions, frogs, all types of fish, sharks, and rays. There are touch tanks for sea anemones, starfish, stingrays, sharks and jellyfish. There is a lorikeet forest where you can purchase nectar and the birds will land on you to eat it.

There are puppet shows, animal feeding and training shows, and also short movies

In addition to the exhibits, there is so much more to do. There is a shaded area with tables that has coloring pages and crayons for kids. There is a really cool splash pad outside that is half shaded and half in the sun that my kids love. Some days we go and all they do is play in the water. There’s a boat that is perfect for climbing and a few other animal models to climb on. There are puppet shows, animal feeding and training shows, and also short movies (for a small additional fee.) And there’s also beer for adults!

We have an annual pass and we go at least once a week and never get bored.

We have an annual pass and we go at least once a week and never get bored. I would definitely recommend visiting if you are local to Southern California, and purchasing a pass if you plan to go at least twice a year.

: Isabelle in the splash pad

: Seahorse

: Katie crawling through the tunnel

: Penguin being transported

: Me and the girls in the Lorikeet forest

Daily Life ExploreLongBeach

EPIC Series Obstacle Race

Posted on May 6, 2018

The ultimate EPIC Sunday Funday! Almost exactly 1 year after my c-section and I am so proud to have just finished my first EPIC series obstacle race. It was the perfect mixture of challenging but still achievable (even for someone who may have neglected to do weights for almost a month.)

Almost exactly 1 year after my c-section and I am so proud to have just finished my first EPIC series obstacle race

I loved that this race was so obstacle-heavy, and also that each obstacle had the option to do beginner, intermediate, and hard variations. I stuck with beginner and intermediate and am feeling like I’m on top of the world, and also a little bit like I got hit by a truck.(If you look through the photos, you will see the “hit by a truck” look on my face towards the end! But in a good “I’m a badass” kind of way.)

If you look through the photos, you will see the “hit by a truck” look on my face towards the end! But in a good “I’m a badass” kind of way

It felt so good to push myself in different ways for each obstacle. Running and climbing come really easily to me, so I was able to breeze through those obstacles. Climbing the rope and hoisting the keg with a pulley were great intermediate challenges because they were hard and different, but I still did okay. The upper body challenges were the toughest for me.

Does anyone else cry after really intense workouts or am I a total weirdo?

Carrying the keg around the track for that last lap was brutal! I couldn’t even get it onto my shoulders without help! But once it was on there, I made my way around the track and finished. And totally cried at the end out of pride and relief. (Does anyone else cry after really intense workouts or am I a total weirdo?) If you are looking for a fitness challenge, definitely check out the Epic course in your city. You can use promo code PARENTDAZE for 10% off at any of their events in 2018! Here is their link! https://www.epicseriesocr.com/

Did I mention there was a kids’ course too? For $20, Katie got to participate in the kids’ EPIC course! She loved learning new workouts and testing her limits. And I loved sharing this fitness experience with her. It was a great opportunity for the whole family to enjoy fitness together. And watching Katie made me realize I need to improve my planking! Hers is on point!

: Pre race!

: Hoisting the keg

: Climbing is my jam!

: Carrying the keg. Dying here!

: Oh-so-tired!

: Katie hitting the tire

: Attempt at box jumps

: Katie’s plank > my plank

Daily Life ExploreLongBeach

Date Night at the Long Beach Aquarium Member’s Prom!

Posted on May 4, 2018

We had an amazing childless night at the Long Beach Aquarium Member’s Prom last night. It was Roaring 20s themed and I could not have asked for a better night. We had so much fun drinking and dancing, and actually got to look at the animals without having to chase our kids. And to top if off, we Postmated happy meals and sundaes from Mcdonalds after we got home and ate them on the couch! It’s nice to have some time alone to remind us why we fell in love. I woke up today feeling so lucky to have someone as wonderful as Jason. (And perhaps a tad like I had one too many beers . But mostly lucky.)

Long Beach Aquarium of the Pacific: http://www.aquariumofpacific.org/

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