Monthly Archives: November 2024

“SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA THEME PARK ROUNDUP” Winter 2024 by Steve Zall and Sid Fish

Here’s what’s happening for the holiday season at our local theme parks:


The Holidays at Disneyland Resort Bring Classic Traditions, New Family Favorites and the Debut of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure

Entertainment includes visits with Santa Claus at the Fantasyland Theatre and live performances at Disney Festival of Holidays


The Happiest Place on Earth is now full of bright décor, festive fun and more as Holidays at the Disneyland Resort returned this year (through Jan. 6, 2025). Guests of all ages can recreate heartfelt traditions and discover favorites such as boarding “It’s a Small World” Holiday and other beloved attraction overlays, celebrating the multicultural Disney Festival of Holidays and witnessing plenty of wintry décor throughout Disneyland Resort.

Guests can ride the newly reimagined attraction, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, now open in Bayou Country in Disneyland Park. In addition, guests can meet Santa Claus and select Disney characters at the Fantasyland Theatre in Disneyland Park, search for decorative ornaments hidden throughout Downtown Disney District in Chip and Dale’s Ornament Trail pursuit and experience new cultural performance groups at Disney Festival of Holidays in Disney California Adventure Park. Plus, Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and some of their friends are debuting new looks at Disneyland Park and Storytellers Cafe at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa are offering an all-new winter-inspired breakfast and brunch.

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure opens at Disneyland Park

Adding more excitement to the holiday season, Princess Tiana’s story comes to life in a new way at Disneyland Resort when the attraction Tiana’s Bayou Adventure opened Nov. 15, 2024, at Disneyland Park. With original music, favorite songs and intricate details throughout, guests can join Princess Tiana and jazz-loving alligator Louis as they encounter familiar faces, make new friends and travel through the bayou.

The attraction builds upon Princess Tiana’s storytelling that guests can experience uniquely at Disneyland Resort, whether it’s shopping at Eudora’s Chic Boutique Featuring Tiana’s Gourmet Secrets or dining at Tiana’s Palace quick-service restaurant. The reimagined merchandise locations now open in Bayou Country in Disneyland Park, Ray’s Berets and Louis’ Critter Club, feature themed merchandise inspired by the attraction that further immerses you into the world of Princess Tiana.

Disney Festival of Holidays and Disney ¡Viva Navidad!

The welcoming and vibrant Disney Festival of Holidays have returned to Disney California Adventure Park, highlighting a diverse season of celebrations in Southern California with a wide range of flavorful food and beverages, a variety of live entertainment, unique festival merchandise and more.

Guests can experience new and returning menu items at the Festive Food Marketplaces. The scannable Sip and Savor Pass, available for purchase in four-coupon or eight-coupon versions, can be digitally redeemed for select food and nonalcoholic beverages from participating marketplaces and dining locations in Disney California Adventure Park.*

Upbeat live entertainment expands the tapestry of diversity and brings high energy to the holiday fun. A slate of new cultural performance groups – along with returning favorites – are performing joyous music and dance across a range of genres. Plus, guests are able to enjoy holiday rhythms as iconic Disney characters march to the beat of festive music during the “Mickey’s Happy Holidays” cavalcade.

Paradise Gardens is home to the returning Disney ¡Viva Navidad! cultural celebration, which includes daily crafts, specialty dishes at Paradise Garden Grill, live music and décor inspired by Latin American traditions – with a dash of Disney flair. Here, guests may encounter Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, The Three Caballeros and Mirabel from Disney Animation’s “Encanto.” The Disney ¡Viva Navidad! Street Party performs on select days, featuring The Three Caballeros accompanied by Mexican folklórico dancers and mariachis, Brazilian samba dancers and percussionists, and more. On days when Disney ¡Viva Navidad! street party is not scheduled, guests may encounter Mirabel from “Encanto” or Miguel from Pixar Animation Studios’ “Coco” in festive street performances that celebrate the holidays and the gift of familia, outside the entrance to Paradise Gardens Park. Guests can check Disneyland.com and the Disneyland app for performance schedules.

Holiday décor, entertainment and dining

Beloved Disney characters come together for a merry musical celebration during “A Christmas Fantasy Parade” in Disneyland Park. Every night, festive fireworks and stirring music bring the season to life during the “Believe…In Holiday Magic” nighttime spectacular at Disneyland Park. “Snow” is scheduled to fall every night along the Rivers of America, near “It’s a Small World” Holiday and portions of Main Street, U.S.A., in Disneyland Park. Hundreds of fountains dance to festive music and shimmering “snowflakes” fills Paradise Bay each evening during the nighttime spectacular “World of Color – Season of Light” in Disney California Adventure Park.

Guests are also able to enjoy dozens of limited-time, holiday-themed food and beverages, including returning hits like the Mickey Gingerbread. Among the novelties available during the season is the Holiday stainless steel tumbler. For amazing bites and sights, Plaza Inn dining packages with special parade viewing for “A Christmas Fantasy Parade” and a dessert party including seating for “World of Color – Season of Light” are available to book on Disneyland.com.

Guests can hear holiday stories about Walt and the Disney family during the Holiday Time at the Disneyland Resort Guided Tour.** Highlights include holiday themed treats and reserved viewing for “A Christmas Fantasy Parade.”

Several new holiday merchandise collections can be found throughout Disneyland Resort including the Mickey Mouse Family Christmas, Holiday Red and Snowman collections. Ideal for gifting to friends and family, an assortment of merry merchandise decks the halls at holiday shopping locations like World of Disney, Emporium, Elias & Co. and more.

This year, Santa Claus and select characters visit and create photo memories with guests at the Fantasyland Theatre in Disneyland Park, which also features cookie decorating, craft making, storytelling and atmospheric music throughout the day. Santa makes stops at Redwood Creek Challenge Trail in Disney California Adventure Park, Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, Disneyland Hotel and Pixar Place Hotel daily through Dec. 24. Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and some of their friends make appearances in Disneyland Park in all-new outfits reminiscent of writing heartfelt letters during the holidays. Select characters also dress for the occasion on Buena Vista Street in Disney California Adventure Park.

At Disneyland Park, “It’s a Small World” Holiday transports guests through a world tour of good cheer, while Jack Skellington from “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas” brings whimsical sights and seasonal surprises to Haunted Mansion Holiday. In Cars Land at Disney California Adventure Park, Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters and Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree have undergone transformations to become Luigi’s Joy to the Whirl and Mater’s Jingle Jamboree.

Shining holiday décor embellishes both theme parks, Downtown Disney District and the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort. From Nov. 29 through Jan. 5, snow will also fall on the reimagined west end of Downtown Disney District. Throughout Downtown Disney District, guests can search for special ornaments along the all-new Chip and Dale’s Ornament Trail pursuit through Jan. 1, 2025. Guests can purchase an activity map at select shopping locations in Downtown Disney District and the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort to help their search and redeem it at World of Disney or Disney’s Pin Traders for a holiday keepsake.***

Guests can plan their stay at one of the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort this holiday season, located just a short stroll from both theme parks and the Downtown Disney District; check Disneyland.com for the latest hotel offers.

The Hotels of the Disneyland Resort feature special holiday offerings and entertainment. The lobby of Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa displays an impressive gingerbread house inspired by pastries and candies in the lobby, as well as Mickey’s Holiday Pajama Party breakfast and brunch at Storytellers Café with seasonal décor and select characters sporting new pajamas. Plus, Tenaya Stone Spa is presenting bookable holiday experiences like the Underneath the Tree Signature Massage and Warmth of Holiday Foot Treatment. “Goofy’s Kitchen Celebrates the Holidays!” at Disneyland Hotel once again features Chef Goofy and his pals dressed in their holiday best. New décor adorns the colorful, contemporary setting of Pixar Place Hotel for its first holiday season.

The Disneyland Resort is located in Anaheim and features two spectacular theme parks – Disneyland Park (the original Disney theme park) and Disney California Adventure Park – plus three hotels and the Downtown Disney District dining, entertainment and shopping complex. The Hotels of the Disneyland Resort are Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, the Disneyland Hotel – both AAA Four Diamond properties – and Pixar Place Hotel. Disneyland is open daily, and Holidays at the Disneyland Resort runs through January 6, 2025. For tickets and more information visit www.disneyland.com.

*An event Sip and Savor Pass will expire on the stated date and will not be valid at any other event or at any other time. Passes are nonrefundable, subject to restrictions, and not valid for Theme Park admission. Other restrictions apply. Both valid theme park admission and park reservation required for park entry.

**Separate fee and tour reservation required, and both valid theme park admission and park reservation required for park entry. Other restrictions apply. Subject to availability and change or cancellation without notice.

***Chip and Dale’s Ornament Trail pursuit is subject to cancellation or change without notice including, without limitation, dates, keepsakes and prices. Purchase limits apply. Whether you choose to search for the ornaments or not, return your map for a small keepsake. 1 Map = 1 Keepsake. Maps are valid for redemption through 1/1/2025, or while keepsake supplies last.



Knott’s Merry Farm Returns Bigger and Brighter in 2024 with New Spectacular Tree Lighting Ceremony

Guests can enjoy the holidays now through January 5, 2025


The holiday season at Knott’s Merry Farm promises to be merry and bright as the park debuts the new ‘Tis the Season Tree Lighting Ceremony. The event in Calico Park invites everyone to kick off the evening’s holiday celebration with dancers, singers, and, of course, Snoopy. Also this year, guest favorites return along with new food offerings and new merchandise as the park transforms into a dazzling winter wonderland featuring a landscape of thousands of twinkling lights and miles of beautiful garland.

Christmas in Calico continues as the Snow and Glow experience fills the buildings and paths with thousands of lights dancing to the beat of Christmas music while “snow” gently falls throughout Ghost Town. The Wilderness Dance Hall transforms into Santa’s Christmas Cabin, where the entire family can create fond memories by taking photos with Santa Claus and his friends. At The Bird Cage Theatre, Knott’s melodrama company presents a reimagined Charles Dickens classic, A Calico Christmas Carol. The theatre will also present the heartwarming Knott’s version of O. Henry’s classic tale of love and sacrifice, The Gift of the Magi, 1885.

Knott’s own vocal quartet, the Calico Carolers, transports guests back in time to a Victorian Christmas as they perform the season’s songs throughout the streets of Ghost Town. A down-home dose of Christmas cheer is in store for those who join Krazy Kirk and the Hillbillies for a foot-stompin’ show with energetic music and comedy for the whole family. Yuletide cheer is in store with Home for the Holidays, where joyous merriment takes over the Calico Mine Stage with dancing and fun set to popular holiday tunes.

Over at the Walter Knott Theater, Snoopy and the Peanuts gang take to the ice in Snoopy’s Night Before Christmas. This guest favorite returns with the Knott’s Ice-Skating Ensemble and Snoopy retelling the classic poem “A Visit from St. Nicholas” re-imagined Peanuts style.

At the Fiesta Plaza Stage, guests can enjoy Latin Caribbean and New York salsa as well as current American top 40 songs, but with a Latin band format and rhythms provided by Adelaide Pilar.

It’s not a holiday celebration without festive food. Throughout the park, guests can indulge in traditional holiday classics with a twist, including a Merry Farm favorite, the crispy breaded “Turkey Ball” filled with perfectly seasoned stuffing and sweet cranberry sauce, or the vegan and gluten-free pistachio orange cookie.Knott’s Christmas Crafts Village is back with dozens of local artisans selling their unique gifts, including chainsaw wood carvings and elegant glass blowing.

Knott’s Christmas Crafts Village is back with dozens of local artisans selling their unique gifts, including chainsaw wood carvings and elegant glass blowing.

Turn your Merry Farm experience into a holly jolly hotel getaway with an overnight stay at The Knott’s Hotel. The Knott’s Merry Farm Holiday Package includes hotel accommodations, Knott’s Merry Farm admission for one day for each registered guest, and hotel parking. Upgrade to the Hotel Breakfast Package for an unforgettable holiday celebration. For hotel reservations, please visit knotts.com.

Knott’s Berry Farm and Knott’s Hotel are located in Buena Park. Knott’s Berry Farm is open daily and Knott’s Merry Farm runs through January 5, 2025. For more information about Knott’s Merry Farm, please visit www.knotts.com or download the Knott’s Berry Farm app for your smartphone. Join the festive conversation using the hashtag #MerryFarm on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok.



Holidays at LEGOLAND® California Returns with an Elf Extravaganza!

The Merlin Entertainments theme park in Carlsbad, CA, will be ‘bricking the halls’ starting November 23


Tis the season for fa-la-la-la-LEGO® fun! LEGOLAND® California Resort’s Holidays event is turning Carlsbad, CA, into an “elf extravaganza” this festive season. Elves are using festive décor, twinkling lights, garland and even falling snow for the Holidays kicking off Nov. 23 and running select days through Jan. 5.  All festivities are included with general Park admission and select annual passes.

This year, Santa’s zaniest helpers have taken over Imagination Zone and transformed it into an elf extravaganza. Guests can immerse themselves in the holiday spirit by training to become an elf at the new Elf Training Academy, taking “elfies” with the all-new LEGO® elf characters, Ivy and Frode, or mastering their jolly good dance moves at the new Holly Hype Dance Party. And don’t miss the North Pole Postal Service where guests can mail letters to Santa by dropping them in a special mailbox, where eager elves will ensure they make their way to the North Pole.

The elf fun continues as you stroll through the Park where you’ll be greeted by the iconic three-story-tall twinkling LEGO Christmas tree built out of more than 364,481 LEGO® and DUPLO® bricks. Capture core memories with Christmas card photos in front of the larger-than-life LEGO wreath, sample sweet treats with a holiday twist, and get a head start on holiday shopping at The Big Shop. Explore festivities, including:

  • Holiday Fireworks: Watch the elves light up the sky with an end-of-day festive fireworks show on Saturdays in December and Dec. 21 through 30.
  • Holly Hype Dance Party: Join Reindeer Girl and jump, prance and boogie down in this interactive holiday dance party!
  • Brickmas Greetings: Meet and greet with our LEGO Toy Soldier, sing along with Toy Soldier’s Marching Band, and get some holiday shopping in at The Big Shop.
  • Meet LEGO Santa and Friends: Your favorite holiday LEGO characters are back and ready for holiday hugs, pictures, and selfies. Meet friends including LEGO Snowman, Reindeer Girl, Gingerbread Man, Toy Soldier and new elf characters, Ivy and Frode. Plus, T-Rex Guy has dressed up for the season and is bringing the holiday spirit inside the Resort’s newest land, Dino Valley!
  • Jingle Jamboree: Celebrate the holidays with the final show of the day and see favorite LEGO Holiday characters sing and dance to merry tunes.

After the Christmastime celebrations, ring in the New Year on Dec. 31 with dazzling fireworks, delicious treats, festive entertainment, and more at this year’s Kids’ New Year’s Eve. Countdown to LEGOLAND California’s version of midnight (which is a kid-approved 7 p.m.), with fireworks and special 3D glasses that turn the bursts into LEGO bricks!

LEGOLAND believes awesome is for everyone! To ensure every visitor has a fun Holidays experience, all LEGOLAND Resorts in North America are Certified Autism Centers after working with the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards to train and certify staff in sensory, environmental, and emotional awareness – ensuring families can build a bricktastic vacation and make unforgettable memories.

LEGOLAND California’s 2024 operating calendar can be found here. For more information about LEGOLAND California, visit our website or follow us on Facebook.  To book a Vacation Package at LEGOLAND Hotel, visit our Vacation Packages page. Guests can also purchase single-day tickets or annual passes with or without a hotel stay. 

LEGOLAND California Resort and Sea Life Aquarium are located in Carlsbad. Legoland is open on select days, and the LEGOLAND® Hotel and LEGOLAND® Castle Hotel are open daily year-round. For more information call 760-444-5600 or visit www.legoland.com/california/.



Six Flags Magic Mountain Celebrates 10 Festive Years of Annual Holiday in The Park Event

Families, friends, and thrill-seekers are invited to join in the merriment starting November 28


Six Flags Magic Mountain, the undisputed Thrill Capital of the World, lights up the holiday season with the park’s 10th Annual Holiday in the Park, on select days from November 28 through January 5. Beginning at 5:00pm, the magic of the season takes over as the park transforms into a dazzling winter wonderland with more than two million twinkling lights amidst a thrilling collection of world-class coasters and family attractions, visits with Santa, festive treats and more. From coasters to cocoa, it’s a holiday spectacular for all to enjoy!

Guests of all ages can enjoy the sights, smells, and sounds of the holiday season as the park transforms into a magical winter wonderland.

Three new festive Holiday in the Park shows include:

  • NEW! Unwrapped: Holiday Magic – As the magic of Holiday in the Park takes over each night, witness this dazzling new opening ceremony featuring an ensemble of energetic dancers and costumed characters, holiday light displays, and festive music.
  • NEW! Elf-a-Palooza – In a dazzling all-new show, Santa’s larger-than-life toy soldiers are joined by the spirited tinsel toy elf dancers where their playful antics and choreographed dance moves are sure to fill the audience with joy and wonder.
  • NEW! Reindeer Dash – A thrilling new slider show that showcases the incredible skill and magic of Santa’s reindeer as they gear up for their most important night of the year. Perfect for all ages, this lively holiday spectacle is packed with music, laughter, and a contagious festive cheer that will make your holiday season unforgettable.

Returning Holiday in the Park one-of-a-kind themed areas and entertainment:

  • North Pole Junction is home to Santa and Mrs. Claus along with their merry elves. Visit Santa in his cottage or enjoy crafts with Mrs. Claus, snap a holiday photo, pen a letter with your holiday wish list, or take a ride aboard the North Pole Express train. Beginning at 1:00pm on Holiday in the Park days through December 24. Located in Whistlestop Park; 
  • Holiday Village offers a variety of festive eats and treats including Santa’s Hot Chocolate Bar, Blitzen’s Bread Bowls, Mrs. Claus’ Homemade Sweets, and S’mores perfect roasting over an open fire pit.
  • HollyRock! takes guests back in time through a lighted time-travel tunnel into the fabulous 1950’s, for a rockabilly holiday extravaganza featuring thousands of lights, a dazzling 22-foot tree, classic cars, festive “oldies” music, and an open fire pit to roast s’mores. Located in The Underground;
  • Gleampunk District transports guests into the 19th century with the sights and sounds of the Industrial Revolution, in this beautifully lit area featuring thousands of lights along the tree-lined streets and planters. Located near Twisted Colossus;
  • Holiday Square dazzles guests with a kaleidoscope of hundreds of thousands of breathtaking colored lights on trees and buildings throughout the area sprinkled with the wonder of falling snowflakes for everyone to enjoy. Located in Six Flags Plaza; and
  • The Wishing Ridge dazzles all with a whimsical light show choreographed to festive music and thousands of glimmering lights. Located near Viper.

To add to the merriment, guests can take home Holiday in the Park gifts and souvenirs, including novelty apparel, ornaments, and soft plush toys. With a visit to the North Pole Junction, guests can meet Santa and Mrs. Claus and take home a souvenir holiday photo.

Enjoy a Taste of Holiday in the Park with a wide variety of specialty holiday-inspired main courses including cranberry ribs, traditional tamales, chicken tortilla soup, loaded baked potatoes, and many more tasty eats. Plus, indulge in festive sweets and treats including freshly made peppermint bark, festive funnel cakes and thrill shakes, and much, much more. Guests can also cozy up with loved ones and roast marshmallows over an open fire pit at one of several locations around the park.

Six Flags Magic Mountain is located in Valencia, and Holiday in the Park event days include November 28-30, December 1, 6-8, 13-31, and January 1-5. For more information on Holiday in the Park at Six Flags Magic Mountain, including operating hours and show schedules visit sixflags.com/magicmountain/events.

Six Flags Season Passes & Memberships

For the ultimate holiday gift, get 2025 Six Flags Season Passes or Memberships during the Six Flags Cyber Sale, November 25 through December 2.  For a limited time choose a Gold Membership starting at just $6.99 a month plus take advantage of huge discounts on add-ons like All-Season Dining and THE FLASH™ Pass. For more details visit sixflags.com/magicmountain.



Universal Studios Hollywood Celebrates the All-New Addition of Joyful Holidays in SUPER NINTENDO WORLD Along With “Grinchmas” and “Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” From November 29 through January 6, 2025

Holidays Extend to Universal CityWalk with Nightly Tree Lightings and an Array of Shopping and Dining Options


‘Tis the season and Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal CityWalk ‘tis the place to make unforgettable holiday memories. 

From Friday, November 29 through Monday, January 6, 2025, guests can experience the magic of the season with SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™ which features an all-new holiday celebration, while enjoying such family traditions as “ Grinchmas™” and “ Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.™” 

Plus, with so much to see and do at Universal Studios Hollywood in 2025, an Annual or Season Pass with a savings of up to $50 now through April 23, 2025, when purchasing online, is the ideal stocking stuffer for guests of all ages. Blackout dates and restrictions apply. Visit UniversalStudiosHollywood.com for details.

SUPER NINTENDO WORLD joins this year’s festivities with holiday décor, inviting guests to celebrate alongside Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach and Toad within the Mushroom Kingdom. Guests can shop for new, exclusive holiday-themed merchandise, including a holiday sweater featuring a snowman adorned in a Mario cap and scarf, a Mario snowman plush and a Mario snowman headband, along with apparel, drinkware and more.

Toadstool Cafe™, located within SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, also sweetens up their menu with an all-new holiday treat as a complement to its popular menu items.

The spirit of the Who-lidays will shine brightly this “Grinchmas” season with an assortment of fun holiday favorites, including an “Always Naughty” Grinch Spirit Jersey ® and a “Dashing through the Nope!” women’s boxy fit t-shirt along with pins, key chains, blanket, home décor and other apparel.

This year, Grinchmas serves up an array of tempting items available at the “Who-bilicious Treats” venue located within Universal Plaza. Highlights include such whimsical favorites as Who Pudding, Whoville Present Cookie, Cocoa Cookie, Grinch Donut, 2 Sizes Too Small Cupcake, Who-bilicious Cinnamon Roll, Heart Grew 3 Sizes Sugar Cookie and The Grinch™ Heart Lemonade.

“Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” spellbinds with a collection of treasures and treats offering unique magical gifts for friends and family, from a new line of sherpa items, including a blanket, backpack and trapper hat, to bespoke ornaments, stationery, apparel and home décor inspired by the Wizarding World.

With an opportunity to personalize gifts for all the special witches and wizards in one’s life, items such as robes, key chains, wands, scarves, journals and hats can be engraved with individual names and is available at select locations within “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” and at the Universal Studio Store inside the theme park.

Holiday-themed fare, including the English Holiday Meal and Pumpkin Pasty, plus a selection of Butterbeer™ – hot, cold or frozen – will further enhance the overall Harry Potter experience.

For other theme park holiday merchandise favorites, guests can visit Super Silly Stuff, the Animation Studio Store, Jurassic Outpost and the Universal Studio Store for a wide selection of collectables primed for holiday gift giving and stocking stuffers. Additionally, select items can be personalized to “Make It You-niversal,” from engraving and embossing to embroidery and embellishment at the Universal Studio Store.

Universal CityWalk joins in on the holiday festivities with nightly tree lighting ceremonies, dining and shopping. In particular, the all-new and very-popular Hello Kitty® and Friends Cafe features a selection of delicious menu items, including a 50th Cookie Sandwich, a 50th Anniversary Cake and a Sparkling 50th Drink, offered now through the end of the year to celebrate Hello Kitty’s 50th Anniversary. At the Sanrio Smile Shop, located next door, offers a variety of Hello Kitty merchandise and exclusive holiday-themed items from ornament to apparel and a must-have holiday glass tumbler.

The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen introduces a new seasonal milkshake, the Wintermint Spice Shake, available both at the Foundry milkshake bar and in the dining room. Voodoo Doughnut will feature all-new, seasonal doughnuts such as the Candy Cane, Grandma’s Hot Cocoa, Peppermint Chocolate Bar and Snowball to celebrate the holiday season. Antojitos Cocina Mexicana serves up a variety of festive-themed drinks, including Champurrado, Chestnut Horchata, Mistletoe Mule and Apple Cider Margarita. NBC Sports Grill & Brew cheers to the holidays with a tasty Peppermint Mocha Martini, while VIVO Italian Kitchen presents a new dish, Aranci, which is comprised of crispy-fried risotto, sun-dried tomatoes, pancetta, pepperoni, mozzarella cheese, Grana Padano® cheese, marinara, balsamic glaze and oregano.

Guests must be 21 years or older and have a valid photo ID to purchase or drink alcoholic beverages.

More information is available at www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com. Like Universal Studios Hollywood on Facebook and follow @UniStudios on Instagram and X (formerly Twitter). Admission to Universal CityWalk is free.

Universal Studios Hollywood in Universal City is open daily year-round, and Universal Studios Hollywood Holidays runs November 29, 2024 through January 6, 2025. For more information call 800-864-8377 or visit www.universalstudioshollywood.com.

© Nintendo. Nintendo trademarks are properties of Nintendo.

Dr. Seuss properties TM & © 2024 Dr. Seuss Enterprises, L.P. All rights reserved.

HARRY POTTER characters, names and related indicia are © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. J.K. ROWLING`S WIZARDING WORLD™ J.K. Rowling and Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Publishing Rights © JKR. (s24)



Whatever you do for the holiday season this year, we hope you have a fabulous time!

“Scene in LA” November 2024 by Steve Zall and Sid Fish

Cooler days have finally arrived, which means it’s time to spend an evening or two in one of our local venues where you can take in one of these fine productions. Don’t miss out on this great opportunity!
Covid protocols continue to be dictated by each individual venue, so bring a face mask to wear during the show in case the venue requires it. It’s a good idea to check with the theater before you attend a show to find out what their current policy is.
The information presented in this column is the latest available at the time of printing, however you should verify it with the theater to confirm it before making definite plans. Here are the shows that have announced opening dates for this month, or are already running:

OPENING


“DIVA The Play” DIVA is the story of world-renowned Australian opera singer Louisa McCrae reliving her life through the lens of a fractured mind. As she unpacks a suitcase full of memories, she is transported back to powerful moments that shaped her extraordinary life. As her mind starts slipping, can she hold onto the memories long enough to revive her broken heart? Written by Vivienne Powell, and directed by Leah Patterson, it runs November 1 through November 10 at the Zephyr Theatre in Los Angeles. For tickets visit www.DIVAtheplay.com.


“A Doll’s House” Witness the play that shook the theatre world and changed everything! This fresh adaptation of Ibsen’s intense drama as Nora Helmer, a woman ahead of her time, faces the ultimate test of courage and self-discovery. In a world that expects her to be nothing more than a devoted wife and mother, Nora dares to ask: What happens when a woman decides to reclaim herself? In her most lucid moment, Nora exclaims “I AM A PERSON”: a person who has never been seen or heard, like millions of women everywhere. Experience the revolutionary masterpiece that has captivated audiences for over a century. Written by Henrik Ibsen, and directed by Mia Christou, it runs November 1 through November 24 at the Beverly Hills Playhouse in Beverly Hills. For tickets visit www.bhplayhouse.com.


“A Good Guy” tells the story of Anna Pope, who as long as she remembers, has always wanted to be a teacher. When a series of events leads to a tragic outcome, she becomes an unexpected hero in her own classroom: a good guy with a gun. Written by David Rambo, and directed by John Perrin Flynn, it runs November 1 through November 10 at the Matrix Theatre in Los Angeles. For tickets visit www.roguemachinetheatre.org/a-good-guy.


“Joan” Comedian. Trailblazer. Force of nature. From Greenwich Village nightclubs to “The Tonight Show” to Hollywood’s red carpets, Joan Rivers made and remade her career through triumph and tragedy. This is the story of a pioneer and the story of a mom—who were one and the same. Get up close and personal with the famously edgy, fearless and loving legend in this hilarious and heartbreaking account of an American icon. Written by Daniel Goldstein, and directed by David Ivers, it runs November 1 through November 24 at the South Coast Repertory Julianne Argyros Stage in Costa Mesa. For tickets call 714-708-5555 or visit www.scr.org.


“A Streetcar Named Desire” The Streetcar Project presents Williams’s complete, unabridged text with just four performers, no props, and no set. By stripping bare to the bones one of the greatest pieces of American drama ever written, The Streetcar Project has established itself as a genuine underground sensation throughout the past year by astonishing audiences in private homes, a SoHo fashion boutique, movie theatres, churches, barns, warehouses, art galleries, and factories in and around New York City. As the ghosts of Williams’s New Orleans prepare to haunt Los Angeles, West Coasters will now have the chance to grab the ticket for which New Yorkers have been clamoring. Written by Tennessee Williams, and directed by Nick Westrate, it runs November 1 through November 3 at the warehouse at 2100 Zeno Place in Venice. For tickets visit www.thestreetcarproject.com/tickets.


“A Doll’s House Part 2” The story continues! Fifteen years after the door slammed shut, Nora Helmer returns to the home she once left behind. Now a successful author and advocate for women’s rights, she must confront the past she thought she had escaped. With sharp dialogue and surprising twists, this modern sequel delves into the complexities of marriage, identity, and the price of freedom. Don’t miss this powerful exploration of what it means to come back—and what it takes to move forward. Written by Lucas Hnath, and directed by Allen Barton, it runs November 2 through November 24 at the Beverly Hills Playhouse in Beverly Hills. For tickets visit www.bhplayhouse.com.


“One For the Road” is a chilling study of power and powerlessness. Set in an unnamed totalitarian country, the play presents a violent, disturbing portrait of political horror in which an interrogator torments a tortured prisoner and his imprisoned wife and child. Written by Harold Pinter, and directed by Miguel Perez, it runs November 2 through November 3 at the Art of Acting Studio Theatre 2 in Los Angeles. For tickets visit www.brownpapertickets.com/event/6459496.


“A View from the Bridge” delves into the complexities of family, love, and justice. Set in a tight-knit Italian-American community in 1950s Brooklyn, the play explores the lives of its characters with raw emotion and powerful storytelling. As tensions rise and secrets unravel, the audience is drawn into a world where loyalties are tested, and the consequences of one’s actions have far-reaching implications. With compelling characters and intense relationships, this timeless drama keeps audiences on the edge of their seats from start to finish. Written by Arthur Miller, and directed by David Ellenstein, it runs November 3 through November 17 at the Laguna Playhouse in Laguna Beach. For tickets call 949-497-2787 or visit www.lagunaplayhouse.com.


“It’s All Your Fault, Tyler Price!” follows Jackson, a middle school boy with big feelings who’s in big trouble after punching his bullying classmate, Tyler Price, for mocking Jackson’s sister, Lucy. Lucy, who attends the same school’s special day class, has epilepsy and related learning challenges. To avoid expulsion, Jackson’s principal insists he explain himself to the entire school. In response, Jackson stages a scrappy, heartfelt musical using music he “borrows” from his composer dad. Through each family member’s bravery, we watch healing begin for all. Written by Ben Decter and Kristin Hanggi, with music by Ben Decter, and directed by Kristin Hanggi, it runs November 7 through December 15 at the Hudson Theatre in Los Angeles. For tickets visit www.tylerpricemusical.com.


“The Goddamn Couple Down the Hall (Oh…., and Merry Christmas!)” It’s Christmas in Pasadena. And the Woodruff clan is gathering at the condo of elder daughter, Dana. Her fiancé, Chad, is preparing a gourmet feast for the holiday. The guests include Dana’s parents, Jerry and Maureen, as well as her younger sister, Sydney, and her boyfriend, Lance. What promises to be a beautiful day spent with loved ones gets turned on its head by the goddamn couple down the hall, Lucinda and Kenny, who clearly hate each other, and whose screaming matches – funny and foul-mouthed — can be heard loud and clear by the Woodruffs. When things down the hall suddenly go quiet, the Woodruffs wonder if that means Kenny and Lucinda have kissed and made up? Or could there be foul play? The family’s divided on whether they should investigate. Is it better to let sleeping dogs lie or should they dig in and try to unravel what actually happened between their feuding neighbors? Written by Mark Wilding, and directed by Charlie Mount, it runs November 8 through December 15 at Theatre West in Studio City. For tickets call 323-851-4839 or visit www.theatrewest.org.


“Private Eyes” Matthew believes his wife, Lisa, is having an affair with Adrian. Or is he just imagining it? Or is it actually a play they are rehearsing? Or is it something to keep his therapist entertained? The twists and turns keep coming, as the audience is left to determine what is actually true in this self-styled “relationship thriller”? Written by Steven Dietz, and directed by Michael Keith Allen, it runs November 8 through December 15 at the Theatre Palisades at the Pierson Playhouse in Pacific Palisades. For tickets call 310-454-1970 or visit www.theatrepalisades.org.


“Adventures In the Great Beyond” A twenty-year old rebellious devotee of new age philosophy drops out of college to follow a gregarious guru and a band of soul-searching pranksters in the middle of the Arizona desert. In this 90-minute immersive pop rock production, the stage is set for a divine musical comedy of karmic proportions. Girl meets boy, and in the story’s unconventional twist — a mother-guru romance that transcends lifetimes, offers a comical and provocative lens through which to examine intergenerational dynamics and spiritual soul-searching. This clever plot device underscores the cyclical nature of human experience, a theme that resonates with the musical’s exploration of mysticism and self-realization. For truth-seekers of all ages Adventures in the Great Beyond is a refreshing romp through life six decades into the Age of Aquarius. Featuring musical numbers about karma, meditation, miracles and more. Written and directed by Tom Chiodo, with music by Joe Nedder, lyrics by Tom Chiodo, it runs November 9 through December 8 at the Hudson Mainstage Theatre in Los Angeles. For tickets visit www.greatbeyondmusical.com.


“Fiddler on the Roof” Jason Alexander stars in a Broadway classic! Overflowing with musical hits you know and love, including “Tradition,” “Sunrise, Sunset,” “If I Were a Rich Man,” “Matchmaker, Matchmaker,” and “To Life (L’Chaim!),” Fiddler on the Roof is the heartwarming story of fathers and daughters, husbands and wives, and life, love, and laughter. Our beautiful production will introduce a new generation to this uplifting celebration which raises its cup to joy! To love! To life! Written by Joseph Stein, with music by Jerry Bock, lyrics by Sheldon Harnick, and directed by Lonny Price, it runs November 9 through December 1 at the La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts in La Mirada. For tickets call 562-944-9801 or visit www.LaMiradaTheatre.com.


“The Girl Who Made the Milky Way” The Khoisan, an ancient ethnic group with a long and intriguing history, are believed to be the oldest human inhabitants of southern Africa. In the play, a young girl, Little Sister (Stakiah Lynn Washington), evolves from struggling with her place and duties among her people to embracing her uniqueness, voice, courage, and identity. Supported by a cast of archetypal characters in the form of animals, trees, mountains and spirits (Jamela Asha, Edward Hong, Max Lawrence, Carter Michael and Makha Mthembu), Little Sister braves the dangers of the African savanna and confronts the unfair expectations the world has of her because she is a girl. Not only does she help find her father by creating the stars of the night skies, but she also discovers her true self. Written by June Carryl, and directed by Armina LaManna, it runs November 9 through November 17 at the Colony Theatre in Burbank. For tickets call 818-649-9474 or visit www.imaginetheatreca.org.


“Agatha Christie’s The Murder of Roger Ackroyd” is a thrilling tale of greed, blackmail and murder most foul. This ingenious 1926 novel cemented Christie’s reputation as the greatest mystery novelist of all time. The story’s shocking twist ending has thrilled readers for generations and has been called “the best and most cunning solution devised in her storied career.” Now, the landmark novel comes to the stage in a new and fastmoving adaptation. Filled with colorful characters, outrageous laughter and nail-biting suspense, this Christie classic is sure to leave audiences guessing, gasping and delighting in the case long after the curtain has come down. Written by Mark Shanahan, based on the book by Agatha Christie, and directed by Jules Aaron, it runs November 14 through December 15 at Theatre Forty in the Mary Levin Cutler Theatre in Beverly Hills. For tickets call 310-364-0535 or visit www.theatre40.org.


“Waiting for Godot” As Vladimir and Estragon wait and wait for the arrival of the elusive Godot, a cast of mysterious misfits interrupt their endless vigil in Samuel Beckett’s tragi-comic masterpiece that has captivated audiences for decades. Written by Samuel Beckett, and directed by Judy Hegarty Lovett, it runs November 14 through December 15 at the Gil Cates Theater at Geffen Playhouse in Westwood. For tickets call 310-208-2028 or visit www.geffenplayhouse.org.


“Arms Around America” Staged as if a radio theater company is performing a live broadcast, the evening-length shows will include four actors navigating a forest of microphones, while voicing dozens of characters. Froot will create live foley sound effects with an eclectic collection of everyday objects. Wholly contributing to the experience is a three-piece band. The performers will share the stage with eight audience members seated at a kitchen table, who will provide real-time commentary on the unfolding action. Written and directed by Dan Froot, with music by Julio Montero, it runs November 15 through November 16 at the UCLA Nimoy Theater in Los Angeles. For tickets visit www.cap.ucla.edu/event/dan-froot-company-0.


“First Date” when blind date newbie Aaron is set up with serial-dater Casey, a casual drink at a busy New York restaurant turns into a hilarious high-stakes dinner. Written by Austin Winsberg, with music by Alan Zachary & Michael Weiner, and directed by James Esposito, it runs November 15 through December 1 at the Zephyr Theatre in Los Angeles. For tickets visit www.chrtheatre.com.


“The Producers” a down-on-his-luck Broadway producer and his mild-mannered accountant come up with a scheme to produce the most notorious flop in history, thereby bilking their backers (all “little old ladies”) out of millions of dollars. Only one thing goes awry: the show is a smash hit! Written by Mel Brooks and Thomas Meehan, with music by Mel Brooks, and directed by Susan Weisbarth, it runs November 15 through December 14 at the Westchester Playhouse in Los Angeles. For tickets call 310-645-5156 or visit www.kentwoodplayers.org.


“Broadway Showstoppers in Concert” features one Broadway showstopper after another, performed by a splendid cast of Broadway and Hollywood veterans, 12 spectacular dancers, all accompanied by Fred Barton’s 16-piece orchestra! Written and directed by Scott Thompson, with music by Fred Barton, it runs November 16 through November 17 at the El Portal Theatre Debbie Reynolds MainStage in North Hollywood. For tickets call 818-508-4200 or visit www.elportaltheatre.com.


Photo by Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade

“Clue” murder and blackmail are on the menu when six mysterious guests assemble at Boddy Manor for a night they’ll never forget! Was it Mrs. Peacock in the study with the knife? Or was it Colonel Mustard in the library with the wrench? Based on the fan-favorite 1985 Paramount Pictures movie and inspired by the classic Hasbro board game, CLUE is the ultimate whodunit that will leave you dying of laughter and keep you guessing until the final twist. Written by Sandy Rustin, Hunter Foster and Eric Price, with music by Michael Holland, and directed by Casey Hushion, it runs November 29 through December 1 at the Bank of America Performing Arts Center in Thousand Oaks. For tickets visit www.BroadwayInThousandOaks.com.


CONTINUING


“Committed?” Let’s face it: Suicide Sucks. And no one knows how to handle it. How do you transform the worst thing that’s ever happened to you…? With humor as a shield and community as her anchor, Lisa uses raw honesty and biting wit to share a “Ritual for Robbie.” Written by Lisa Robins, and directed by Mitch Levine, it runs through November 3 at the Rogue Machine at the Matrix Theatre in Los Angeles. For tickets call 855-585-5185 or visit www.roguemachinetheatre.org/committed.


“Beehive: The 60’s Musical” is a wailing musical tribute to the groundbreaking female voices of the 1960’s.Featuring such beloved hits as Natural Woman, My Boyfriend’s Back, One Fine Day, Proud Mary and more, BEEHIVE: THE 60’S MUSICAL features six extraordinary women performing more than two dozen timeless hits from Aretha Franklin, Diana Ross, Janis Joplin, Carole King, Tina Turner and more. Complete with a live onstage 5-piece band and funkadelic 60’s fashions, BEEHIVE: THE 60’S MUSICAL will have audiences of all ages movin’ and groovin’ and shouting for more. Written by Fred Helsel, and directed by Augusto Guardardo, it runs through November 10 at the Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center in Simi Valley. For tickets call 805-583-7900 or visit www.simi-arts.org.


“Summertime, An Interlude” The hottest day of summer is interrupted when a community leader is rushed to the hospital. As Red fights for his life, the neighborhood bands together to hunt down his wannabe executioner. Through belly laughs, cold beer, and blunt smoke, the truth about the shooting at “Red’s Deli” bleeds out. Relationships are tested, lies are told, questions are answered, confessions are made — and before sundown, the neighborhood loses a piece of its heart forever. Written by Aniello Fontano, and directed by Dayo Ade, it runs through November 10 at Sawyer’s Playhouse in Loft Ensemble in North Hollywood. For tickets call 818-452-3153 or visit www.loftensemble.org.


Some theaters still provide online offerings in addition to or in lieu of live performances, with many events you can experience on a virtual basis. A few of these online events are only available on a one-time basis, while others are ongoing and can be viewed on-demand anytime. Visit each of the web sites below to see what they are currently offering. You will find free content as well as pay-per-view to choose from. Here are the links to web sites with online offerings:
3-D Theatricalswww.3dtheatricals.org
A Noise Within
www.anoisewithin.org
Antaeus Theatre
www.antaeus.org
Boston Court Pasadena
www.bostoncourtpasadena.org
CaltechLive!
www.events.caltech.edu
www.youtube.com
Chalk Repertory Theatre
www.chalkrep.com
Coeurage Ensemble
www.coeurage.org
East West Players
www.eastwestplayers.org
Echo Theater Company
www.echotheatercompany.com
El Portal Theatre
www.elportaltheatre.com
Films.Dance
www.films.dance
For the Record Live
www.ForTheRecordLive.com
Fountain Theatre
www.fountaintheatre.com
Garry Marshall Theatre
www.youtube.com
Hero Theatre
www.herotheatre.org
IAMA Theatre Company
www.iamatheatre.com
www.woollymammoth.net
www.queenstheatre.org
International City Theatre
www.InternationalCityTheatre.org
Kentwood Players
www.kentwoodplayers.org
www.youtube.com/kentwoodplayers
Laguna Playhouse
www.lagunaplayhouse.com
L.A. Chamber Orchestra
www.laco.org/laco-at-home
L.A. Theatre Works (fee & free)
www.latw.org/black-voices
www.latw.org/broadcasts
www.latw.org/hd-screenings
www.latw.org/setting-stage-learning
Loft Ensemble
www.loftensemble.org
Long Beach Opera
www.longbeachopera.org
Morgan-Wixson Theatre
www.morgan-wixson.org
www.youtube.com
Moving Arts
www.movingarts.org
Odyssey Theatre
www.OdysseyTheatre.com
Open Door Playhouse
www.opendoorplayhouse.org
Pepperdine University
www.arts.pepperdine.edu
Robey Theatre Company
www.therobeytheatrecompany.org
Rubicon Theatre
www.rubicontheatre.org
Sacred Fools
www.sacredfools.org
Santa Monica Playhouse
www.santamonicaplayhouse.com
Segerstrom Center for the Arts
www.scfta.org
Shakespeare Center LA
www.shakespearecenter.org
Sierra Madre Playhouse
www.sierramadreplayhouse.org
South Coast Repertory
www.scr.org
The Blank Theatre (fee)
The Blank Theatre (free)
www.patreon.com/TheBlankTheatre
www.youtube.com/TheBlankTheatreCo
The Geffen Playhouse (fee)
www.geffenplayhouse.org
The Latino Theatre Company
www.latinotheaterco.org
The Road Theatre Company
www.youtube.com
The Soraya
www.thesoraya.org
The Victory Theatre Center
www.thevictorytheatrecenter.org
The Wallis Center for the Performing Arts www.thewallis.org
Theatre 40
www.theatre40.org
Theatre 68
www.youtube.com/68centcrewtheatre
Theatre West
www.theatrewest.org
Please help keep our theaters open by supporting live theater whenever you can. On behalf of the publisher Steve Zall and our co-publisher/editor Sid Fish, we want to send our heartfelt thanks to the publicists who supply us with this content, the editors and publishers who deliver it to you, and most importantly, to our readers who rely on the information provided in our columns.
Sincerely,
Steve Zall, Publisher
Sid Fish, Co-Publisher & Editor