Hands-On Science Takes Center Stage in 2026

Discovery Cube Orange County is rolling out a full slate of interactive exhibits and events for 2026, giving families across Southern California plenty of reasons to plan a visit. From outer space adventures to playful problem-solving rooted in STEM, the Santa Ana campus will host a year of hands-on experiences designed to spark curiosity and keep young minds engaged.

Alongside the new exhibits, Discovery Cube will debut its Lunch Lab food venue this spring. The family-friendly dining space will feature fresh options and interactive touches that tie science and learning into mealtime, extending the Cube’s mission beyond the exhibit floor.

Here is a look at what is kicking off the year in Orange County:

Solar System Encounter through Feb. 22
This immersive exhibit invites visitors beyond Earth’s atmosphere to explore the wonders of the solar system. Families can build and race Lego space vehicles, learn about volcanic activity on Mars, and take part in Impact Events that support the local community.

Cubebotics, every weekend in February
Sponsored by Southern California Edison and U.S. Bank, Cubebotics introduces kids to robotics through hands-on coding, building, and problem-solving challenges. Participants can design and program robots while seeing new technology in action, all in an engaging setting that makes STEM learning approachable and fun.

Discovery Cube Orange County is located at 2500 N. Main St., Santa Ana. Hours are Monday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Napa Rose to Reopen Feb. 6 at Disney’s Grand Californian

Napa Rose, the award-winning signature restaurant at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, will reopen Feb. 6, 2026.

The reimagined dining experience is led by Chef Andrew Sutton and Executive Chef Clint Chin and marks a new chapter for the restaurant. Building on Napa Rose’s 25-year legacy of California wine country cuisine, the refreshed concept brings new energy and global influences to the menu while honoring the flavors and craftsmanship longtime guests appreciate.

The restaurant will offer options for a range of occasions, including small bites and cocktails from an à la carte menu in the bar and lounge, a seasonal prix fixe menu in the main dining room and expanded outdoor terrace, custom Chef’s Counter experiences, and newly renovated private dining.

Menu highlights include American wagyu N.Y. with grape fennel mustardo, oak-roasted forest mushrooms, and handmade sorpresine pasta with Dungeness crab and Santa Barbara uni butter. Desserts include a Nantes carrot cake cremeux and the Elevated and Reminiscent Valrhona Chocolate Bar.

Advance reservations are recommended for the main dining room and outdoor terrace. Same-day reservations are subject to availability. Dinner is served from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Reservations can be booked at Disneyland.com and NapaRose.com.

1600 Disneyland Dr, Anaheim. (714) 781-4636

Napa Rose at Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa - American Wagyu N.Y. (Disneyland Resort/Ron DeAngelis)

Tomatomania Returns to Roger’s Gardens for Its 15th Year

The world’s largest and most fun tomato plant sale returns to Roger’s Gardens from Friday, Feb. 27, through Sunday, March 8, marking the 15th year of the beloved Tomatomania event. Led by tomato expert Scott Daigre and his team of self-proclaimed Tomatomaniacs, the annual sale features an astonishing lineup of more than 300 heirloom and hybrid tomato varieties, including new introductions for 2026. The highly anticipated Tomato of the Year will be announced soon.

More than a plant sale, Tomatomania is a full-on garden experience. Over ten days, tomato lovers and home gardeners can explore an unmatched selection of plants, get expert guidance, and find everything needed to grow standout tomatoes at home.

This year’s collection spans classic favorites such as Brandywine and Cherokee Purple, alongside exciting newcomers like dwarf heirlooms and productive hybrids. Look for eye-catching varieties including the blue-splashed Two Tasty, the vibrant orange grape Vivacious, and Cowboy, a massive, rust-colored Canadian beefsteak that always turns heads.

To make browsing easy, plants will be organized alphabetically, with dedicated sections for Miniatures, Tomatoes of the Year, and Roger’s Recommends. For those who want first pick, an online presale allows guests to preview the full selection and reserve favorites in advance.

Whether you are a seasoned gardener or planting tomatoes for the first time, knowledgeable staff will be on hand with advice on variety selection, care tips, and techniques to maximize flavor and yield. Videos and in-person conversations with fellow tomato enthusiasts round out the experience, helping set the stage for a successful tomato season.

When: Friday, Feb. 27, through Sunday, March 8, daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: Roger’s Gardens, 2301 San Joaquin Hills Road, Corona del Mar
Cost: Free
More information: www.rogersgardens.com/pages/tomatomania