Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy Hikes & Trails December 2022

3 days ago • Children's Events, Community Events, Community Information, Trails and Hikes

Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy Hikes & Trails December 2022

Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy continues to open its trails for all to enjoy, but in order to do so they need volunteers to help maintain the beauty in Palos Verdes. Today in the Special Events section, you can find more opportunities to help our reserves with wildlife tracking and volunteering.

Special Events

Docent Orientation (Virtual) will take place on Thursday, December 8, 2022, from 12:00 noon to 1:30 p.m. Join the group and learn how you can share your love of nature with others. Sign up at www.pvplc.volunteerhub.com.

Guided Nature Walk at Three Sisters Reserve with the Palos Verdes Peninsula Land conservancy will take place on Saturday, December 10, 2022, at 9:00 a.m. You will hike through a 21 acre habitat restoration of coast sage scrub (which is home to the threatened California gnatcatcher) while enjoying rolling hills and amazing scenic vistas. This is considered a moderate walk. Sign up at pvplc.org/calendar.

Special Activities

New Guided Nature Walk at White Point Nature Preserve on Saturday, December 17, 2022, at 10:30 a.m. Naturalists will guide you along a trail (with amazing ocean views) to discover a unique variety of wildlife in their coastal sage scrub habitat. Meet in front of the Nature Center and come inside to explore after the hike. Parking is in the lot at the dead end of 1600 Paseo del Mar, San Pedro. No Reservations are required. Preserve parking available in a gravel lot also at 1600 West Paseo del Mar, San Pedro.

Volunteer Activities

Outdoor Volunteer Day will take place at Abalone Cove on Saturday, December 10, 2022, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon. You can help the conservancy by volunteering at the newest restoration site on a breathtaking coastal reserve and help eradicate invasive weeds to protect native species. Sign up at www.pvplc.volunteerhub.com.

Rapid Response Team will take place on Fridays & Saturdays, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon. You will work alongside conservancy staff protecting important wildlife habitat by closing unauthorized trails. The tasks include trail maintenance, building fences, installing signage, and more. No experience is needed and volunteers must be 15 years of age and up. You will be working at various locations and can volunteer by going to www.pvplc.volunteerhub.com.

To read my prior article on Palos Verdes Hikes and Trails, click here.

Photo courtesy of Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy Three Sisters Reserve

South Coast Botanic Garden Presents “Merry & Bright”

1 week ago • Children's Events, Community Events, Things To Do In Palos Verdes

South Coast Botanic Garden Presents “Merry & Bright”

Palos Verdes residents can enjoy some holiday fun throughout the month of December at the South Coast Botanic Garden with the new “Merry & Bright” event which will go through December 25, 2022.

You will notice the new seasonal plantings from the moment you walk through the Garden’s gates, with photo opportunities including a twist on iconic pine trees. At the Garden, you can shop for the holidays and even enjoy Nature POP, and food and beverage at Dottie’s. Tis the season to be “Merry & Bright” no matter what holiday you are celebrating.

The California Winter Wreath and Hot Cider Workshop will take place on December 3, 7, 11, 13 & 15, 2022, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. You will enjoy a hot cider while you’ll learn how to create you own holiday wreath using California native plants which are pivotal to California ‘s ecology. They will walk you through the steps of wreath making and share the importance and history of the native plants being used. Each ticket comes with all the hardware and tools needed to create your wreath as well as access to an array of plant material. You can also bring any clippings or your own equipment if you want to make your wreath uniquely yours. The price for this class is $59 member/ $69 for non-members.

Elf in the Garden is back. This popular elf will be hiding in the Garden with his friends and will have a new location every Friday until Christmas day. Each week you can see what he is up too, and if desired you can post on Instagram using #ElfintheGarden. If you post a picture of Poppy at each of the four locations, you will be entered to win tickets to Astra Lumina.

Sean Kenney’s Nature POP! – Winter Edition will take place until December 31, 2022. On December 1, some of the 40 sculptures in the garden will be transported to a winter wonderland. You can see four of the vignettes, including 21 rabbits, become Merry & Bright. These new winter wonderland backdrops will offer all new photo opportunities for visitors.

Santa is coming to the Garden. You will have an opportunity on December 9th from 2:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. and December 10th & 11, 2022, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. for photos with Santa. Guests will receive a digital file of their photos at no cost to them. (Included with General Admission)

Holiday Shopping will be taking place all month at the kiosk in Palm Circle. Their team has been working hard to pick our perfect gifts for those special people in our lives. These are truly unique gifts you won’t be able to find elsewhere.

The price for admission for this special event is $15/adult, $11/senior, $5/child. For more information or to purchase admission tickets, click here.

The South Coast Botanic Garden is located at 26322 Crenshaw Blvd, Palos Verdes Peninsula. Due to limited space, they recommend that you contact the Garden early to make your reservations.

To read my prior article about the Garden click here.

Photo courtesy of the South Coast Botanic Garden

Palos Verdes Girls Softball Registration Is Open!

1 week ago • Children's Events, Community Events, Community Information, Things To Do In Palos Verdes

Palos Verdes Girls Softball Registration Is Open!

Palos Verdes residents who are interested in having their girls play softball next spring can register now, and the registration period ends on December 31, 2022.

Palos Verdes Peninsula Girls Softball League is a non-profit recreational softball league that serves girls ages 4 through 14 residing on the Palos Verdes Peninsula and in surrounding communities. They provide a safe, first class recreational softball program to all girls interested in fast pitch softball.

On January 8, 2023, Assessment Day will take place for girls in 8U & above, at Cornerstone School. On February 11, 2023, Opening Day will be held starting with a parade celebrating their new team colors at Cornerstone School. The cost will remain the same as last year at $200 for 6U, and $285 for 8U and above.

To review, here are the age categories for 2023:

6U – Players born in 2016, 2017 & 2018
8U – Players born in 2014 & 2015
10U – Players born in 2012 & 2013
12U – Players born in 2010 & 2011
14U – Players born in 2008 & 2009

Cornerstone School at Pedregal is located at 6069 Groveoak Place, Rancho Palos Verdes.

For more information or to start the registration process go to www.pvpgsl.org.

Photo courtesy of Palos Verdes Girls Softball

More Local Holiday Events 2022!

2 weeks ago • Children's Events, Community Events, Community Information, Redondo Beach, Things To Do In Palos Verdes

More Local Holiday Events 2022!

Local Holiday Fun

Palos Verdes residents have a few more options for holiday fun in the local area.

The Redondo Beach Police Department is presenting Let It Snow on Saturday, December 3, 2022, from 12:00 noon to 4:00 p.m. at the Seaside Lagoon. This will be a great event with a snowball throwing challenge, crazy holiday hat contest, and you will be able to make crafts at Santa’s workshop. There will also be an opportunity to take a picture with Santa on his sleigh. There is no charge for the event but they are accepting new unwrapped toys for children and families in need.

The 12th annual Holiday Concert will take place at the Redondo Beach Pier on Saturday, December 10, 2022, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. This is a wonderful outdoor holiday musical performance with Holiday Activity Books and a selfie station for those great pictures. This is also a toy drive for Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital and if you bring a new unwrapped toy valued at $5 or more, you can have a chance to win pier prizes.

Seaside Lagoon is located at 200 Portofino Way, Redondo Beach.

To read my prior article on South Bay Area Holiday Events click here.

Photo courtesy the City of Redondo Beach Community Services Department

Palos Verdes Holiday Nutcracker Tradition 2022

3 weeks ago • Children's Events, Community Events, Community Information, Things To Do In Palos Verdes

Palos Verdes Holiday Nutcracker Traditions 2022

Holiday Ballet Extravaganza

Palos Verdes residents can once again celebrate Holiday Traditions on the Peninsula with the local presentations of the Nutcracker Ballet and the Holiday Ballet Extravaganza.

The Nutcracker Ballet will be presented by several local dance studios at the Palos Verdes Performing Arts Center.

Peninsula School of Performing Arts (PSPA) will perform on Friday, November 18, at 7:00 p.m., Saturday, November 19, at 2:00 p.m. & 7:00 p.m., and Sunday, November 20, 2022, at 12:00 noon & 2:00 p.m. Tickets prices are $40 adults/$30 for children 17 and under. This beautiful production combines professionals, pre-professionals, adults, and young dancers who come together to delight audiences of all ages with this rich rendition of the classical ballet. The Nutcracker is a treat for the entire family!

The Palos Verdes Ballet is celebrating their 42nd anniversary with their production of The Nutcracker on Saturday, December 3, at 7:00 p.m., and Sunday, December 4, 2022, at 1:00 & 5:00 p.m. Ticket prices are $42 adults/$28 for children 11 and under. This is a family holiday tradition since 1980. There is truly nothing like sharing the artistry and talent of the beautifully refined dancers and international guest artists with the Palos Verdes community. You will be able to enjoy wonderful holiday music while watching the snowflakes and sword fights plus a Christmas tree that touches the sky.

The Classical Ballet Theater is presenting Holiday Ballet Extravaganza on Saturday, December 11, 2022, at 2:00 p.m. Ticket prices are $25 adult/$20 for children under 12. Enjoy the Holiday Ballet Extravaganza presented by Classical Ballet Theater – CBT Academy featuring The Nutcracker Highlights. This special performance is designed to introduce everyone to the beauty of classical ballet.

The Palos Verdes Performing Arts Center is located at 27570 Crossfield, Rolling Hills Estates. For more information, or to purchase tickets go to www.NorrisTheatre.org, or call (310) 544-0403.

To read my prior article on Palos Verdes Holiday Traditions click here.

Photo courtesy of the Classical Ballet Theater

Palos Verdes Peninsula Enjoys 25th Annual Parade of Lights 2022!

3 weeks ago • Children's Events, Community Events, Community Information, Things To Do In Palos Verdes

Palos Verdes Peninsula Enjoys 25th Annual Parade of Lights 2022!

The City of Rolling Hills Estates is again lighting up the holiday season with the annual Palos Verdes Peninsula Holiday Parade of Lights on Saturday, December 3, 2022, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. This holiday tradition is back this year again with festive floats and cheerful participants parading through the commercial district along Silver Spur Road and Deep Valley Drive, through the Promenade on the Peninsula to Norris Center Drive.

This year’s Grand Marshall is David Benoit the GRAMMY nominated pianist/composer/arranger known as one of the founding fathers of contemporary jazz. He has served as conductor with a wide range of symphonies including the Los Angeles Philharmonic, San Francisco Symphony and many more. David is currently hosting a morning radio show on KKJZ 88.1 FM, and is the Music Director & Conductor for the Asia America Symphony Association.

Also featured are retired Rolling Hills Estates Council member and past Mayor, Steve Zuckerman as Hometown Grand Marshall. Council member Zuckerman has served on the Rolling Hills Estates City Council for 25 years and as a Mayor five times. The Palos Verdes Peninsula Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year, Derek Gable, a renowned inventor (formerly worked for Mattel Toys), will serve as a Community Grand Marshall. Derek was responsible for creating and managing many big hits including items for Barbie, Hot Wheels, games and more.

The parade will showcase community and civic groups, school and youth organizations, marching bands, drill teams, equestrian units, and local businesses; others are encouraged to participate in the parade. Also as always, Santa will be joining the fun.

To read my prior article on Palos Verdes Holiday Traditions click here.

Photo courtesy of the City of Rolling Hills Estates

Local South Bay Area 2022 Holiday Events November & December

4 weeks ago • Children's Events, Community Events, Community Information, Redondo Beach, Things To Do In Palos Verdes, Torrance

Local South Bay Area 2022 Holiday Events November & December

Palos Verdes home owners are getting ino the spirit of the 2022 holiday season. Below are some of the fun events for your consideration.

Torrance Memorial Medical Center will be presenting their 39th annual “Holiday Festival” beginning Tuesday, November 29, 2022, and running through Sunday, December 4, 2022. The Festival will feature decorated trees and a holiday celebration that includes a food court, musical entertainment, children’s activities, and a large Holiday gift section. Many trees are decorated with a different theme and will be sold with the proceeds going to the Lundquist Lurie Cardiovascular Institute. The “Holiday Festival” is located in the parking lot under the big white tent adjacent to the hospital on Skypark & Medical Center Drives. The public can view the trees and boutique on Tuesday, November 29, 2022, from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., Wednesday, November 30 & Thursday, December 1, 2022, from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. The Festival Gala takes place on Friday, December 2, 2022, and the exhibit will be closed that day. For Gala reservations call (310) 517-4703. On Saturday, December 3, 2022, the exhibit is open from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., and Sunday, December 4, 2022. from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The cost is $5 per person and free for children under 3 years old. (Senior Days – Free Admission are Wednesday & Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.) Additional information is available at www.torrancememorial.org/HolidayFestival, or call (310) 517-4703. Torrance Memorial Hospital is located at 3330 Lomita Boulevard, Torrance.

In Riviera Village, the annual “Riviera Village Holiday Stroll” will take place on Thursday, December 1, 2022, from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. This is a great event for all ages with a parade featuring Santa who will be making an appearance around 5:50 p.m. and will be available for photos. The stores will be bringing out their festive wares and treats and you will definitely feel the holiday cheer. The Stroll takes place on Catalina Avenue and Avenue I in Redondo Beach.

To read my prior article on South Bay Area Holiday Events click here.

Photo courtesy of the Torrance Memorial Holiday Festival

Terranea Resort’s 2022 Thanksgiving Traditions

1 month ago • Community Events, Community Information, Things To Do In Palos Verdes

Terranea Resort’s 2022 Thanksgiving Traditions

Whether your looking for that special Thanksgiving dining experience or even a Thanksgiving Meal To-Go, the beautiful Terranea Resort located in Palos Verdes with its gorgeous views has something for every dining style.

Thanksgiving Ballroom Buffet – Celebrate with friends and family over a Thanksgiving Champagne Buffet and live entertainment. Enjoy culinary delights with a festive carving station, chilled seafood display, apple cider pressing station, and a feast worthy selection of menu offerings including chestnut stuffing, sweet potato puree, butternut squash and sage bisque, market vegetables, fruit and salad bar, charcuterie, and dessert bar. Champagne is included for your Thanksgiving toast. Seating times on Thursday, November 24, 2022, are from 12:30 p.m., 1:00 p.m., 1:30 p.m., 400 p.m., 4:30 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. Ticket Options are Adults $119 +/Children 5-12 $59 + /Children under 4 are complimentary.

Mar’sel – There is plenty to be thankful for at Mar’sel with a traditional Thanksgiving feast. Enjoy a prix fixe gourmet menu of holiday classics set in an elegant backdrop, offering unmatched Pacific views. Caviar and truffles are available table side upon request with specialty wine selections for the holidays. Seating times on Thursday, November 24, 2022, are from 1:30 – 9:00 p.m.

Nelson’s – If you are looking for a cozy and casual Thanksgiving with a view, head to Nelson’s for a lunch-style dinner with fried turkey sandwich and cranberry aioli. Nelson’s will be open on Thursday, November 24, 2022, from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. offering Thanksgiving football games on an large outdoor TV screen. Call (310) 265-2861 for more information.

Bashi – This year, Bashi is serving an Asian inspired Thanksgiving complete with a memorable family feast of Turkey Shoyu Ramen and seasonal cocktail offerings. Save room for dessert which features purple sweet potato cheesecake covered with chocolate ganache. This menu will be available on Thursday, November 24, 2022, from 12:00 noon to 9:00 p.m.

Catalina Kitchen – Enjoy a bountiful buffet this Thanksgiving in Catalina Kitchen. This will include a carving station, local seafood, traditional Thanksgiving side dishes, charcuterie, crepes and desserts. Sparkling wine toast is also included. Catalina Kitchen will be open on Thursday, November 24, 2022, from 12:00 noon to 10:00 p.m.

Sea Beans – For a no-fuss Thanksgiving feast, let Terranea create your holiday meal. Sea Beans is offering three turkey packages serving groups of four or eight. To-Go offerings include roasted butternut squash soup, ginger & spice brined free-range turkey or mushroom, leek & celery root tart, potato bread & chestnut stuffing with currents, country style mashed potatoes, sweet potato puree with marshmallow and pecan, and roasted vegetables. Of course, no Thanksgiving feast is complete without cranberry cassis compote and your choice of pie, including classic pumpkin, apple or pecan.

Online ordering deadline is Saturday, November 19, 2022, and food is available for pick up on Thursday, November 24, 2022. To order call (310) 265-1861. One year, I ordered this To-Go feast and it was fabulous!

For more information about the above restaurants and reservations call (310) 265-1861.

Terranea Resort is located at 100 Terranea Way, Rancho Palos Verdes. If using a navigation system, use 6610 Palos Verdes Drive South, Rancho Palos Verdes. For more information go to www.terranea.com or call (310) 265-2800.

To read my previous article on Thanksgiving Traditions click here.

Photo courtesy of Terranea Resort

Palos Verdes Little League Registration Opens Soon!

2 months ago • Children's Events, Community Events, Community Information, Things To Do In Palos Verdes

Palos Verdes Little League Registration Opens Soon!

Palos Verdes residents who are interested in having their children play Little League next spring, can start registering on November 1, 2022. The registration period will end on December 31, 2022, so it is important to sign up as soon as possible before we get into the holiday rush.

Palos Verdes Peninsula is divided into 4 separate Little League divisions. You will need to know your child’s 2023 baseball age and check the boundary map before registration. (Click here) The boundaries are determined by your property address. However, if you live outside of a league’s boundary but attend school within their boundary, you have been allowed to register with that league in the past.

Registration for the 2023 Spring season opens on November 1, 2022, and will remain open until December 31, 2022. On January 21, 2023, Players Evaluation Day will take place at the Valmonte field, for Minor, Intermediate and Major Players. On February 25, 2023, Opening Day will be held starting with a parade celebrating their new team colors.

To register, enter your login ID and password. After entering your child’s birth date, a league age will be calculated and the division that he or she is eligible to play in will open for registration. It will automatically assign you to a division based on your child’s age, but you have the option to have them play in a lower division. Divisions available by league age are: Tee Ball for ages 4–6, Farm division ages 6-7, Minor division ages 8–9, Intermediate division ages 10–11, and Major division ages 11-12. If you are requesting to play up a division, that will be determined by the draft (therefore by the managers in the division).

For more information or to start the registration process on November 1, 2022, go to http://www.pvlittleleague.com/home.

To read my prior article on Palos Verdes Little League click here.

Photo courtesy of Palos Verdes Little League

Palos Verdes Celebrates Harvest Festival 2022

2 months ago • Children's Events, Community Events, Community Information, Things To Do In Palos Verdes

Palos Verdes Celebrates Harvest Festival 2022

Palos Verdes residents can look forward to enjoying an afternoon of fun at a local Harvest Festival which will be held on Saturday, October 22, 2022, at the Rancho Palos Verdes Civic Center located at 30940 Hawthorne Blvd., Rancho Palos Verdes. This family friendly activity, sponsored by the City of Rancho Palos Verdes, will be held from 12:00 noon to 4:00 p.m. and you are encouraged to wear your costume. This is a great time for Palos Verdes homes owners to enjoy an afternoon outing with their family.

The event will include:

Arts & Crafts Vendors
Face Painting,
Glitter Tattoos
Caricature Artists
Trunk or Treating
Live Music & Entertainment
Beer and Wine Booth
Food Trucks & Dessert Vendors

There will be free shuttles & additional parking at the Point Vicente Interpretive Center located at 31501 Palos Verdes Drive West.

To read my last article on a local Harvest Festivals click here.

Photo courtesy of the City of Rancho Palos Verdes