Author: Savannah Brooks

A daring haunted maze is creating buzz as Orange County’s legendary Halloween destination embraces an unexpected tribute to animation history. BUENA PARK, CA — Halloween entertainment is getting an imaginative twist at Knott’s Scary Farm, where a haunted attraction inspired by the early days of animation is attracting attention for its surprising references to Disney history. The new maze, titled Inked, introduces guests to a fictional 1933 animation studio called Mortimer Morbid, where cartoon characters take on a disturbing life of their own. What begins as a nostalgic journey into vintage animation quickly transforms into a dark experience filled with unsettling imagery, sinister characters and theatrical horror. The attraction has generated attention for its apparent references to early Disney cartoons, including imagery resembling the famous Steamboat Willie character. The fictional studio’s name, Mortimer Morbid, also recalls the name Mortimer Mouse, which Walt Disney originally considered before settling on Mickey Mouse. Rather than presenting familiar animated characters in their traditional family-friendly setting, the maze reimagines the visual language of classic cartoons through a horror-inspired lens. The result is an unusual combination of entertainment history, satire and the immersive storytelling that has helped make Knott’s Scary Farm one of Southern California’s best-known seasonal attractions. According to recent reporting by SFGATE, the maze features several references that longtime Disney enthusiasts may recognize, including visual nods to early animated works and classic theme park storytelling. The creative approach also underscores the different entertainment identities of Orange County’s two famous theme park destinations. While Disneyland is internationally associated with family entertainment and magical storytelling, Knott’s Scary Farm has built its reputation around darker experiences designed for horror fans. The history between the two parks adds another dimension to the attraction. Walt Disney and Walter Knott shared a mutual respect during the early development of Southern California’s theme park industry. Today, their respective parks continue to influence the region’s tourism and entertainment economy, drawing visitors from across the country and around the world. For Halloween enthusiasts, Inked provides another example of how haunted attractions are evolving beyond traditional jump scares and horror imagery. By combining elaborate sets, cultural references and immersive environments, modern Halloween entertainment increasingly emphasizes storytelling alongside suspense. As Halloween approaches, Knott’s Scary Farm is giving Orange County visitors a chilling new reason to explore the darker side of animation history.

One of Southern California’s most anticipated film festivals returns with international premieres, independent cinema and eight days of entertainment. NEWPORT BEACH, CA — The spotlight is shining on Orange County as the 27th annual Newport Beach Film Festivalofficially begins Thursday, October 15, bringing filmmakers, industry professionals and movie enthusiasts together for an extraordinary celebration of cinema. Running through October 22, the festival transforms Newport Beach into a destination for film premieres, cultural events, networking opportunities and conversations about the future of entertainment. This year’s festival features an impressive international program, with more than 100 feature films and 250 short films representing 21 countries, according to Visit Newport Beach. The lineup spans a wide range of genres, including dramatic features, documentaries, international films, independent productions and emerging filmmakers’ work. For movie lovers, the festival offers a rare opportunity to experience films that may not yet have reached mainstream theaters, while also providing access to discussions and events involving the creative minds behind the productions. The Newport Beach Film Festival has established itself as an important gathering for the entertainment industry, attracting filmmakers seeking to introduce their projects to audiences, critics and potential collaborators. Its coastal location provides a distinctive atmosphere, combining Southern California’s entertainment culture with Newport Beach’s restaurants, shopping destinations and waterfront attractions. The festival also plays a meaningful role in supporting local businesses. Visitors attending screenings and special events have opportunities to explore nearby restaurants, hotels and retail establishments throughout the city. Beyond the glamour of opening night, the event highlights the importance of independent storytelling and the creative talent shaping the next generation of filmmaking. Special programming includes films focused on art, architecture, environmental issues and action sports, reflecting the festival’s commitment to diverse voices and perspectives. For Orange County residents, the festival represents an opportunity to enjoy an international cultural experience without traveling to Hollywood or Los Angeles. As filmmakers and audiences gather for eight days of screenings and celebrations, Newport Beach once again takes its place on Southern California’s entertainment calendar. The 2026 Newport Beach Film Festival continues through October 22, offering film enthusiasts an opportunity to celebrate cinema in one of Orange County’s most iconic coastal communities. Official website: NewportBeachFilmFest.com

The reopening of Ketchum-Libolt Park marks another step toward improving neighborhood recreation and creating welcoming public spaces across the city. COSTA MESA, CA — Families in Costa Mesa have a newly renovated outdoor destination to enjoy following the official reopening of Ketchum-Libolt Park, part of a broader effort to improve recreational opportunities throughout the city’s Westside neighborhoods. City and police officials celebrated the park’s transformation on October 12, unveiling improvements designed to make the neighborhood gathering space more welcoming, accessible and enjoyable for residents. The approximately $2.5 million renovation introduced updated recreational amenities, including new playground equipment inspired by public safety, while preserving the park’s important historical significance. Ketchum-Libolt Park honors Costa Mesa police officers James Dave Ketchum and John Mike Libolt, who lost their lives in a helicopter crash while serving the community in 1987. The redesigned park provides a place where children can play, parents can gather and neighbors can enjoy outdoor recreation. The project also represents a significant investment in the Westside community, with funding support that included $1.2 million secured through California Assemblymember Cottie Petrie-Norris. Meanwhile, city leaders are advancing plans to expand recreational opportunities near Shalimar Park. During an October 6 meeting, the Costa Mesa City Council supported a concept for a new community center adjacent to the park, responding to residents who have called for additional neighborhood programs and gathering spaces. The proposed facility would offer approximately 2,100 square feet for community activities, meetings and services. Although funding and construction plans for the building have not yet been finalized, the proposal highlights the city’s continuing focus on providing spaces that serve families and young people. Investments in public parks can help improve neighborhood quality of life by encouraging outdoor activity, strengthening community connections and providing accessible spaces for recreation. For Costa Mesa residents, the reopening of Ketchum-Libolt Park is more than a construction milestone. It represents renewed attention to the places where families create memories and neighborhoods grow stronger. As Costa Mesa continues improving its parks and public facilities, the city is creating more opportunities for residents to connect, play and enjoy their community.

City officials are exploring new ways to protect beaches, homes and businesses as concerns grow over future storms and rising ocean levels. NEWPORT BEACH, CA — Newport Beach is taking a closer look at its coastal protection strategy after powerful ocean waves and unusually high tides caused significant flooding along portions of the city’s famous shoreline. The recent coastal emergency brought ocean water into streets near the Balboa Peninsula, creating dangerous conditions for motorists and raising concerns among residents and businesses. The flooding followed a combination of elevated ocean conditions and the effects of Tropical Storm Rachel, putting additional pressure on beaches already affected by erosion. During an October 13 City Council study session, Newport Beach officials discussed measures to strengthen the community’s defenses against future coastal flooding. Among the strategies under consideration are additional sand replenishment, continued maintenance of protective sand berms, improvements to stormwater management and expanded efforts to protect vulnerable shoreline areas. City officials emphasized that keeping beaches protected requires consistent investment and preparation, particularly as Southern California faces the possibility of more intense winter storms associated with El Niño conditions. The city has already used emergency resources to reinforce protective barriers, manage flooding and maintain access to affected neighborhoods. The issue extends beyond beachfront homeowners. Newport Beach’s coastline supports a thriving local economy that includes restaurants, hotels, retail establishments and recreational businesses. For these businesses, maintaining safe and accessible beaches is essential to preserving one of Orange County’s most popular visitor destinations. Although the immediate flooding emergency has eased, the recent conditions serve as a reminder of the challenges facing coastal communities throughout Southern California. As Newport Beach evaluates long-term solutions, protecting its famous shoreline while preserving public access and the area’s natural beauty remains a central priority. For residents and visitors, the message is clear: Newport Beach’s coastline remains one of Orange County’s greatest attractions, but safeguarding it will require continued preparation and investment.

Orange County’s summer calendar is getting a new kind of festival. The OC MENA Festival, scheduled for Friday, June 19, through Sunday, June 21, 2026, at the OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa, is preparing to transform the fairgrounds into a three-day celebration of Middle Eastern and North African culture, entertainment and community. The event is expected to combine the energy of a live music festival with the warmth of a family cultural gathering. Across the weekend, guests will find concerts, food vendors, marketplace shopping, carnival rides, art, comedy, family programming and spaces designed for all ages. For…

There is something special about finding a café that feels both welcoming and well designed. Chrome Coffee Studio delivers that balance, offering a space where quality coffee meets a relaxed, inviting atmosphere. Located in Torrance, the café provides a refreshing alternative to more crowded or fast-paced coffee spots. Its design is simple and clean, creating an environment that encourages guests to settle in and enjoy their time. Whether you are stopping by for a quick drink or staying a while, the space adapts easily to your needs. The menu focuses on carefully prepared beverages that highlight both flavor and consistency.…

Orange County is home to countless global food influences, and International Meat and Deli in Garden Grove offers one of the most distinctive experiences. The specialty market focuses on Eastern European foods and ingredients that celebrate traditional flavors. The Romanian owned shop features a carefully selected assortment of imported goods. From smoked meats and sausages to specialty cheeses and packaged products, customers can explore a variety of authentic items. For many visitors, the deli is a place to reconnect with familiar tastes from home. For others, it offers an opportunity to discover a new culinary culture. The friendly atmosphere and…

In a city where surf culture meets civic debate, Huntington Beach is once again at the center of a conversation about growth, identity, and the future of its coastline. City officials have voted to move forward with a full environmental impact report for a large proposed mixed use development along Pacific Coast Highway, setting the stage for what could become one of the most transformative coastal projects in recent memory. The 92 acre site, a former industrial property near the shoreline, has long stood as a reminder of the city’s working class roots. Now, it may become something entirely new.…

Orange County has its share of burger joints, but there is one Los Angeles based chain that continues to pull serious burger fans north. For The Win, the smash burger concept born during the 2020 lockdown, has quickly become a staple in Southern California’s burger conversation. Originally operating as Papilles, a Michelin recognized French bistro, the team pivoted during the pandemic and focused entirely on burgers. That decision paid off. The formula is straightforward but precise. High quality beef is smashed thin with grilled onions directly on the griddle, creating those signature crispy edges. Each burger is served on a…

Orange County’s fashion landscape continues to diversify, with emerging niches gaining traction among style-conscious shoppers. One notable example is the growth of modest fashion — styles that appeal to those seeking coverage without compromising contemporary design. According to recent local reporting, OC welcomed its first dedicated modest-wear boutique, La Zwina, which offers a curated range of modest clothing for everyday and formal occasions. Annenberg Media La Zwina’s founder cited a gap in the market for stylish yet modest apparel that expresses personality and meets cultural wardrobe needs. OC’s fashion community has responded with support, embracing the boutique’s blend of color,…