Browsing: Entertainment

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.

Orange County’s summer calendar is getting a new kind of festival. The OC MENA Festival, scheduled for Friday, June 19,…

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There are restaurants you visit for a meal, and then there are places you return to for the feeling. Katsin…