Uncle Fluffy Opens Soon at Triangle Square

There is something sweet to look forward to in Costa Mesa this December. Uncle Fluffy, the popular Japanese cheesecake and dessert cafe, is opening at Triangle Square. It will be the second Orange County location for this family-owned shop known for its viral, airy and jiggly Japanese-style cheesecake.

Guests can enjoy signature cheesecakes in specialty and seasonal flavors along with a selection of tarts, including cheese, chocolate, matcha, mango and pistachio. The menu will also feature macarons, mochi, and a full lineup of hot and iced espresso drinks, matcha, blended coffees, and fruit smoothies.

“Coastal Orange County has been very welcoming to Uncle Fluffy and we’re excited to open at Triangle Square later this year,” said Rafik Hanna, owner of the California franchises. “The city of Costa Mesa is known for its great dining options and our viral desserts and drinks will be the next go-to spot.”

Uncle Fluffy will be located on the street level of Triangle Square on Newport Boulevard between 19th Street and Broadway.

American Ballet Theatre’s ‘The Nutcracker’ Returns to Segerstrom Hall

American Ballet Theatre’s beloved production of The Nutcracker returns to Segerstrom Hall December 11–21, 2025, accompanied by Pacific Symphony, for its 10th season at the Center.

Praised by the Los Angeles Times as “ravishing and clever enough to inspire multiple viewings” and called “jaw-droppingly beautiful” by the Orange County Register, this holiday favorite features choreography by Alexei Ratmansky, one of today’s most celebrated choreographers. The production dazzles with stunning sets and costumes by Tony Award winner Richard Hudson and Tchaikovsky’s timeless score performed live by Pacific Symphony.

The story follows young Clara, who receives a nutcracker doll at her family’s Christmas party. That night, in her dreams, the doll transforms into a handsome prince and whisks her away on a magical adventure through a world of dancing snowflakes, waltzing flowers, and a battle between toy soldiers and a mischievous mouse army. More than 100 performers bring this enchanting tale to life on stage.

A treasured holiday tradition for Southern California audiences, The Nutcracker is a joyful celebration for the whole family.

VIP Sweet Seats
A limited number of Sweet Seats are available for all performances. Each ticket includes prime orchestra seating, a Segerstrom Center keepsake ornament, a Nutcracker collectible poster, Läderach chocolates, a holiday cookie, and a commemorative 10th anniversary tote bag, creating an elevated holiday experience.

Segerstrom Center for the Arts
600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa
scfta.org | Box Office: 714.556.2787 | Group Sales: 714.755.0236

Thanksgiving Getaways: Where to Celebrate, Relax, and Feast in Southern California

With Thanksgiving quickly approaching, more travelers are trading kitchen prep for festive getaways that blend great dining, relaxation, and holiday tradition. From the sun-drenched desert to the Pacific coastline, these standout California hotels and resorts offer memorable ways to gather and give thanks.

Whether you want a glamorous celebration in the city, a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature, or a classic coastal Thanksgiving with ocean views, here are holiday escapes worth considering.

Desert Thanksgiving

La Quinta Resort & Club, La Quinta

Framed by the Santa Rosa Mountains, La Quinta Resort & Club pairs Hollywood legacy with modern luxury for a sun-soaked Thanksgiving retreat. Guests can choose from three special holiday dining experiences.

Adobe Grill adds a Mexican twist with dishes including turkey roulade, lamb stew, apple salad, and bread pudding. Twenty6 offers a festive menu featuring elevated takes on Thanksgiving classics. Morgan’s in the Desert serves a refined holiday dinner with herb-crusted turkey breast, sweet potato cheesecake, and seasonal sides. Signature cocktails make the celebration even more special.

Reservations: Visit the resort online to book.

City Thanksgiving

Fairmont Century Plaza, Los Angeles

In the heart of Century City, Fairmont Century Plaza creates a polished and effortless Thanksgiving celebration. Lumière features a prix-fixe holiday dinner with seasonal soup or garden salad, herb-roasted turkey breast roulade with traditional sides, and a choice of pumpkin crème caramel or Bahibe-spiced shortbread with brown sugar cream. Elegant service and a sophisticated setting make this a standout Los Angeles holiday dining experience.

Reservations: Available through the hotel’s website.

Hideaway Thanksgiving

Ojai Valley Inn, Ojai

For a peaceful getaway, Ojai Valley Inn offers a serene holiday surrounded by rolling hills and golden sunsets. The Farmhouse hosts a Thanksgiving Grand Buffet celebrating local produce, seasonal entrees, desserts, and sparkling beverages. Families can enjoy a classic buffet at The Oak, while Olivella offers a three-course menu inspired by the flavors of the season. Whether dining fireside or outdoors, this is a warm and intimate way to celebrate.

Reservations: Book online.

Coastal Thanksgiving

Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa, Huntington Beach

Celebrate with ocean breezes and endless views at Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa. The Huntington Ballroom hosts a Thanksgiving buffet from noon to 4 p.m. with roasted turkey, prime rib, honey-glazed ham, pumpkin maple bisque, roasted root vegetables, and fall-inspired salads. Pumpkin pie, apple cobbler, s’mores bars, and other sweet treats complete the feast. Guests can also choose a three-course Thanksgiving menu at Watertable, a traditional turkey special at Pete’s Sunset Grille, or in-room dining.

Reservations: Visit hyattregencyhuntingtonbeach.com.

Oceanfront Thanksgiving

Shore Hotel, Santa Monica

Shore Hotel invites guests to gather at Shoreside Restaurant & Bar for a Thanksgiving feast overlooking the Pacific. Served Thursday, Nov. 27, from noon to 10 p.m., the holiday menu includes roasted turkey with housemade cranberry sauce, aromatic stuffing, whipped potatoes, sautéed green beans, roasted acorn squash soup, and pumpkin pie with vanilla bourbon whipped cream. Thanksgiving specials are offered alongside the full Shoreside menu. It is the restaurant’s first Thanksgiving celebration and a beautiful new beachfront tradition.

Reservations: Book online through the restaurant.

Thanksgiving Dinner Buffet

Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina, San Diego

Marina Kitchen & Bar hosts a waterfront Thanksgiving dinner buffet on Thursday, Nov. 27, from 4 to 9 p.m. The menu features citrus-brined smoked Diestel turkey breast, slow-roasted prime rib, seafood cioppino, Moroccan lamb chops, and a vegan meatloaf option. Classic sides include Yukon Gold mashed potatoes, wild rice pilaf, candy yams, and mac and cheese. Dessert highlights include pumpkin cheesecake, sweet potato crème brûlée, pecan pie, and apple cobbler. Pricing begins at $95 per adult and $39 per child, plus tax and service charge.

Reservations: Available on the hotel’s website.

Image Courtesy Fairmont Century Plaza