Spring Fun in Full Bloom at 2ND & PCH

2ND & PCH in Long Beach invites the community to enjoy a fun-filled month of events this April. The premier waterfront destination is hosting everything from seasonal family activities and lively cultural celebrations to shopping events and social dance nights—offering something for all ages to enjoy.

Bunnyville Photos return on select days throughout the month, starting Saturday, April 5. Families can take Easter-themed photos with the Easter Bunny, perfect for capturing springtime memories. Bunnyville will also offer a Silent Bunny session on Sunday, April 13 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., designed for guests who prefer a sensory-friendly environment. Photo packages will be available for purchase.

Noble Rotisserie will host an Easter Wonderland Breakfast and Tea Party on Saturday, April 5 from 9 to 10:30 a.m., complete with a festive menu and a visit from the Easter Bunny. Over at Ola Mexican Kitchen, the Enchanted Easter Brunch Fiesta takes place Saturday, April 12 from 10 to 11:30 a.m., featuring a special menu and Easter Bunny appearance. Reservations are required for both events.

On Sunday, April 13 from noon to 6 p.m., 2ND & PCH will celebrate the Cambodian Lunar New Year during the UNIDOS Market, with traditional performances, photo ops and a vibrant marketplace of local businesses.

Families are invited to Kids Club: Spring Break Edition on Tuesday, April 15 from 10 a.m. to noon. The event features seasonal crafts, an egg hunt, a Bunny appearance and more. That evening, guests can return for Salsa Class + Social Dancing from 6 to 9 p.m., with professional instructors and a lively dance floor.

To round out the month, The Maker’s Hive Market returns Saturday, April 26 from noon to 6 p.m. in celebration of Earth Month. Shoppers can support eco-conscious brands and browse specialty goods from local artisans.

Guests are encouraged to enjoy the center’s wide variety of restaurants, retailers and specialty services before, during or after any event.

For more information on events and a complete list of tenants visit 2ndandpch.com

Photo of Easter Bunny, courtesy of 2ND & PCH

Chef’s Table Friendship Dinner Returns to Tanaka Farms – May 3, 2025

MaxLove Project’s Chef’s Table Friendship Dinner isn’t your typical gala—it’s a night of delicious food, great wine, and even better company. Get ready for an unforgettable evening of open-flame cooking, community, and connection!

Set for Saturday, May 3, 2025, at 5 p.m. at Tanaka Farms in Irvine, this one-of-a-kind dinner features a multi-course, family-style feast crafted by Chef Cathy McKnight and a dream team of local chefs, known as Team Green. Think gourmet cooking under the stars with ingredients harvested from the farm just steps away.

The evening starts with appetizers, cocktails, and live music as you take in the breathtaking views from a hilltop perch. Everyone gets a fun tractor-pulled wagon ride to the main venue—yes, it’s as charming as it sounds! Then, settle in for a meal cooked over fire and served family-style, blending rustic vibes with culinary delights.

This year’s talented chefs include Whitney Aronoff from Starseed Kitchen, Paul Buchanan from Primal Alchemy, Richard Mead from Farmhouse at Roger’s Gardens, and Michael Puglisi from Herd & Grace, along with talented student volunteers from Orange County School of the Arts.

Wine Tasting Fun: It wouldn’t be a celebration without some amazing wines! We’ve got a fantastic lineup from Rombauer Vineyards, Bob Cabral Wines, Postino WineCafe, and Far Niente Winery. Plus, Sonoma County legend and master sommelier William “Bill” Traverso will be there to guide you through the tastings and share some great stories.

And, of course, every MaxLove Project event has a heart behind it. The Chef’s Table Friendship Dinner is all about hope, healing, and coming together as a community to support children and families facing childhood cancer and rare diseases.

Event Details:

• Guests arrive at 5 p.m.; parking is free onsite.
• Enjoy appetizers, cocktails, and live music to start the evening.
• Dinner is a multi-course, family-style meal cooked over fire.
• The program includes inspiring stories and fun ways to give back.
• The event wraps up around 9 p.m..
• Attire is “farm chic”—festive, fun, and farm-friendly footwear.

Chef’s Table Friendship Dinner
Saturday, May 3, 2025
Tanaka Farms, 5380 ¾ University Dr., Irvine

 For more info or to support this incredible cause, visit MaxLove Project’s Chef’s Table Friendship Dinner.

Image Courtesy of Marc Gewertz

Gary Howard to Be Honored at Casa Youth Shelter’s 2025 Bootstrap Ball

Casa Youth Shelter will recognize longtime board president and philanthropist Gary Howard as the 2025 Legacy Honoree at its annual Bootstrap Ball on Saturday, May 10 at Old Ranch Country Club in Seal Beach. Inspired by the resilience of the youth they serve, the gala celebrates the people who make a lasting impact—and few have done more than Gary.

For more than 20 years, Gary has championed Casa Youth Shelter’s mission with unmatched generosity and leadership. Whether stocking the pantry with steaks instead of just staples, offering his financial expertise, or leading the board with heart and integrity, Gary has always believed that young people in crisis deserve more than the bare minimum—they deserve the very best.

As a respected forensic accountant and trusted voice in the community, Gary played a key role in securing a $4 million grant to expand Casa Youth Shelter’s services, helping to ensure that youth continue to receive care and support beyond their time at the shelter.

Thanks to the time, talent, and generosity of donors and volunteers, Casa Youth Shelter has provided safety, stability, and hope to youth in crisis for more than 47 years. From overcoming abuse and homelessness to finding the tools to build a better future, the youth who come through Casa’s doors are met with support that changes lives.

The Bootstrap Ball will raise critical funding and awareness for the shelter’s programs and services. The evening will include a three-course meal, silent and live auctions, a special guest speaker who once received support from Casa Youth Shelter, and a heartfelt tribute to Gary Howard.

Tickets and event details are available HERE.