Laguna Beach's Festival of Arts is bringing back one of the most unique theatrical experiences in the world this summer with the 2026 Pageant of the Masters production, "The Greatest of All Time."

The show runs nightly from July 9 through Sept. 4, transforming famous works of art into living pictures, real people posed on stage to recreate masterpieces with remarkable precision. This year's theme digs into some of the most influential artists, artworks and creative achievements in history, and gives audiences a chance to think about the stories and innovation behind some of the world's greatest artistic accomplishments.

The lineup includes Rome's Trevi Fountain, designed by architect Nicola Salvi, and the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., home to Daniel Chester French's sculpture of Abraham Lincoln. The production also recreates work from artists including Claude Monet, Johannes Vermeer, Norman Rockwell, Vincent van Gogh, Frida Kahlo and Pablo Picasso. Beyond the art history lesson, "The Greatest of All Time" invites the audience to weigh in on their own picks for the G.O.A.T.s of the art world as these influential pieces come to life on stage.

A ticket to the Pageant of the Masters also gets you into the Festival of Arts Fine Art Show, which USA Today recently named one of the top 10 art festivals in the country. Arrive early and spend the day browsing work from more than 100 award winning Orange County artists, catch some live music, watch demonstrations, take a class or pick up an original piece directly from the artist who made it.

The Pageant of the Masters only runs for eight weeks each summer, and that's part of what makes it special. Once the curtain closes on Sept. 4, this particular production is gone for good.

The Festival of Arts is sponsored in part by Volvo Cars, City of Hope Orange County, Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club, and KOST Radio 103.5. A separate ticket is required to attend the Pageant of the Masters and may be purchased at PageantTickets.com. 

Earl of Sandwich has returned to the Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort with its largest and most immersive location yet, bringing new dining experiences while staying true to the history and hospitality that have defined the brand for generations.

Founded by hospitality entrepreneur Robert Earl in partnership with the Montagu family, including John Montagu, the 11th Earl of Sandwich, the restaurant traces its roots to 1762, when the 4th Earl of Sandwich inspired the creation of one of the world's most recognizable meals.

Alongside its signature toasted sandwiches, the new location introduces The Carvery, where premium pastrami is carved fresh throughout the day in full view of guests. The new Earl's Pastrami features slow-cooked pastrami layered with Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, Dijonnaise, and Thousand Island dressing on marbled rye. Fan favorites including The Full Montagu and The Original 1762 remain on the menu, joined by deli sandwiches, wraps, salads, and other longtime classics.

The expanded bakery adds even more reasons to stop by, serving oversized cookies, cinnamon rolls, and seasonal treats throughout the day. Guests can also visit The Pub, an all-new gathering spot offering draft beer, wine, frozen cocktails, and seasonal beverages.

To celebrate the opening, Luke Montagu, the 12th Earl of Sandwich and a direct descendant of the family behind the iconic sandwich, will visit Anaheim for the grand opening festivities on July 15. More than 260 years after the sandwich first gained popularity, the event offers a connection to the brand's unique history and the family that helped make it famous.

Located in the Downtown Disney® District at Disneyland® Resort, Earl of Sandwich is open daily from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 8 a.m. to midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. For more information, visit EarlOfSandwichUSA.com

A new wellness experience has arrived in Costa Mesa. Invita Head Spa recently opened its doors, and I had the opportunity to visit and experience a treatment firsthand.

Inspired by the Japanese tradition of scalp care, Invita is designed to promote healthy hair, a healthy scalp, and total relaxation. The treatments combine scalp analysis, therapeutic massage, cleansing, and nourishing hair care into one blissful experience. It's the perfect way to unwind, and I couldn't help but think it would also be a wonderful way to spend time with a friend.

One of the things I appreciated most was how personalized everything felt. My scalp was analyzed before the treatment so I could actually see its condition, I selected my own aromatherapy fragrance, and the team explained the process along the way. It felt thoughtful from beginning to end.

The spa itself is beautiful. Every detail has been carefully considered, creating a peaceful, spa-like atmosphere that immediately puts you at ease.

Invita exclusively uses the complete Milbon professional haircare line, a premier Japanese salon-exclusive brand known for its innovative, science-based approach to scalp and hair health. Whether you're experiencing dryness, buildup, thinning hair, or simply want to give your scalp some extra attention, there's a treatment designed for your individual needs. They recommend starting with the Basic Head Spa treatment, which includes a comprehensive scalp analysis and helps determine the best treatment plan going forward.

If you'd like to enhance your visit, Invita also offers a variety of add-ons, including hair styling with or without hot tools, light therapy for hair loss, and a private VIP room for an even more elevated experience.

For those who plan to return, the annual membership is an excellent value. For $100 per year, members receive 10% off treatments for themselves and a friend, 20% off products, a complimentary birthday treatment, and invitations to exclusive member events.

I left feeling refreshed, relaxed, and with my hair and scalp feeling exceptionally clean and healthy. Invita is a wonderful addition to Costa Mesa, and if you're looking for an hour to completely disconnect and recharge, I highly recommend treating yourself to the experience.

Open daily 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. 

3001 Harbor Blvd Ste D, Costa Mesa. +1949.805.0600

Noble Ace officially opened in Laguna Beach's historic Heisler Building, bringing a fresh dining option to the heart of downtown.

Open nightly beginning at 4:30 p.m., the restaurant offers a modern American menu from Executive Chef Magellan Moore, who spent 12 years as head chef at Mastro's Ocean Club Newport Beach. Signature dishes include Short Rib Stroganoff with handmade pappardelle and Jumbo Beef Potstickers served with blue cheese fondue and a beet and chive salad.

The cocktail menu is equally creative, featuring drinks such as a cantaloupe and olive oil martini and a mezcal cucumber Collins, along with a curated wine list. A wine locker program is also in the works, allowing guests to store bottles on-site for future visits.

Founded by Elizabeth and Tom Schreiber, Noble Ace brings together a team with deep roots in Orange County hospitality. The restaurant is led by General Manager Hillari Galindo and Assistant General Manager Danny Reyes, both longtime hospitality professionals.

Designed by Ralitsa Kombakis of Studio Rallou, the space combines the character of the historic Heisler Building with the feel of a modern supper club.

Open Sunday through Thursday from 4:30 to 10 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 4:30 to 11 p.m.

Noble Ace is located at 400 S Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, and more information can be found at www.thenobleace.com.

This year's Fourth of July carries a little extra weight: America turns 250. Whether you're drawn to live music on the water, fireworks over the harbor or a hands-on workshop to get into the spirit, Orange County's coastline has plenty of ways to mark the occasion. Here are spots worth adding to your holiday weekend itinerary.

Lido Marina Village (July 2)

Kick off the long weekend early at Lido Marina Village's Patriotic Pop Up on the Lido Deck, set for Thursday, July 2, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Patriot Brass will perform live patriotic favorites while guests try their hand at seasonal workshops, including a patriotic floral arranging class with French Buckets and a watercolor American flag workshop led by Bailey Art Studios. Pink Lady Creamery will be on hand serving handcrafted ice cream, rounding out a festive waterfront afternoon for families, friends and visitors getting an early start on the celebration.

Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina (July 3-5)

For a holiday spent on the water, Newport Dunes' annual Independence Day on the Back Bay celebration returns with live music, food trucks, watersports and family activities all weekend, capped by a fireworks display over the Back Bay on July 4. Guests can kayak, paddleboard, cruise Newport Harbor aboard a Duffy boat or splash around the Inflatable Aquatic Park, with live entertainment running throughout the weekend ahead of the 9 p.m. fireworks show. 

Photo by Mike Novak

Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa | Huntington Beach (July 4)

For a front-row seat to Huntington Beach's Fourth of July festivities, check into the Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa. Located steps from the sand, the resort puts guests in the heart of the action, from the city's iconic parade to fireworks over the Pacific. Spend the day at the beach, enjoy a bonfire and s'mores, and take advantage of dining options ranging from casual beachfront fare to upscale coastal cuisine.

Starting rate: From $450 per night.

Dana Point Harbor (July 4)

Dana Point Harbor offers a full day of options, from soaking up the sun at Doheny State Beach and Baby Beach to watching fireworks light up the night sky. For waterfront views, book a spot on July 4th Fireworks on the Water Cruises at Dana Wharf or aboard Capt. Dave's Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari. By land, stop by Delanya's Smokin' Hot Texas BBQ's limited-edition community pop up or grab a dinner reservation at a waterfront restaurant while they last. The official fireworks show, hosted by the City of Dana Point, kicks off at 9 p.m. just offshore of Doheny State Beach.

Mark your calendar for Thursday, Aug. 6, when Festival Ballet Theatre brings its beloved "Gala of the Stars" back to the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall for a one-night-only celebration of ballet.

Now in its 17th year, the gala pairs international ballet stars with a select group of young protégés for an evening that's equal parts mentorship and masterclass. This year's headliner is Maria Khoreva, first soloist of the Mariinsky Theatre, who joins guest artists from American Ballet Theatre, Dutch National Ballet, Mariinsky Ballet, New York City Ballet, Stuttgart Ballet, Tulsa Ballet and Vienna State Opera. (Guest artists are subject to change.)

The evening unfolds in two parts. At 6 p.m., the program opens with an optional one act performance from the young protégés, dancers chosen for their exceptional promise who've just wrapped two weeks of intensive training under top artistic directors from the Royal Ballet School, Youth America Grand Prix and San Francisco Ballet Training Program. Then at 7 p.m., the main event takes the stage: a one act performance featuring the world renowned guest artists themselves.

It's a rare chance to watch seasoned stars and rising talent share one stage, all in celebration of the same craft.

This year's gala also marks a bigger milestone: the 38th anniversary of Festival Ballet Theatre, Orange County's premier resident ballet company. The young protégés taking part will be coached by Royal Ballet School Artistic Director Iain Mackay, along with YAGP founders Larissa Saveliev and Gennadi Saveliev, and a roster of esteemed guest faculty.

Tickets are available now at scfta.org.

600 Town Center Dr, Costa Mesa.

Summer at the track is back. The Del Mar Thoroughbred Club just released details on its 2026 Summer Racing Season, and tickets are on sale now at dmtc.com/tickets. The season runs from Opening Day on Friday, July 17, through Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 7.

Founded more than 80 years ago by Bing Crosby, Del Mar remains the only seaside racetrack in the country, and this year's lineup includes 37 stakes races plus a packed calendar of trackside events.

Opening Day presented by Caesars Sportsbook brings back the annual Hats Contest and the Opening Day Party presented by Pacifico, with live DJs and specialty cocktails. New for 2026 is the Seabiscuit Society VIP Party, a ticketed event in the Grandstand's sixth-floor Skyroom with ocean views, hosted food and drink, and serious see-and-be-seen energy.

Fridays got a refresh too. First post time moves up to 2 p.m. (it was 4 p.m.), with closing weekend, Sept. 5-7, starting at 1:30 p.m. New Friday perks include 25% off signature drinks and select beer until 4 p.m., a ticketed Turf Club happy hour with two drinks and two appetizers, and weekly complimentary spirits tastings from brands like Bulleit Bourbon.

The trackside event calendar mixes old favorites with new additions:

• July 18: Tacos & Tequila
• July 26: Family Fun Day (new)
• Aug. 1: Uncorked: Del Mar Wine Fest
• Aug. 8: Turf & Surf Fest (new)
• Aug. 15: Taste of New Orleans
• Aug. 22: The $1 million Pacific Classic, now moved off Labor Day weekend
• Aug. 29: College Day
• Sept. 5: BBQ & Beer Fest (new)
• Sept. 6: Family Fun Day

On the food and drink front, chef Bryn McArthur of Amaya at the Fairmont Grand Del Mar is back curating Taste of the Turf Club, one of the only ways to experience the Turf Club without a membership. Sunday brunch gets a refreshed menu with bottomless beverages, and local pop-ups return to Plaza de Mexico every Sunday.

Diamond Club members should mark Free & Easy Thursdays: free admission, $5 Brandt Beef hot dogs, $5 16-ounce Michelob Ultra drafts and $5 refillable sodas at select concessions.

General admission starts at $10, with options that scale all the way up to trackside tables. Full details and tickets at dmtc.com.

Sherman Library & Gardens is preparing to welcome Hazeltine’s, a new restaurant overlooking the gardens and Pacific Coast Highway in Corona del Mar. The restaurant will be operated by Damian Orozco, owner of the historic Tea House on Los Rios in San Juan Capistrano, and will focus on seasonal purveyor-to-table cuisine, thoughtful hospitality, and an expanded dining experience for Sherman guests.

Named after Moses Hazeltine Sherman and his daughter, Hazeltine’s will feature brunch, lunch, dinner, a full-service bar, and catering for Sherman events. The new two-story restaurant space also returns dining to the garden’s original roots, when light lunches were once served from the Tea Garden to visitors decades ago.

Before the restaurant officially opens, Sherman is offering a preview through the new Hazeltine’s Afternoon Tea Experience, held select Sundays throughout the summer and fall during seasonal garden exhibitions and installations.

The curated tea service includes loose leaf organic tea, seasonal scones with preserves and clotted cream, tea sandwiches, petit fours, strawberries and cream, and optional Champagne service. Vegetarian and gluten-free accommodations are available with advance notice.

Upcoming tea dates include July 19, Aug. 16, Sept. 13 and Oct. 18 at Sherman Library & Gardens in Corona del Mar. Reservations and advance payment are required here, and space is limited.

Sherman Library & Gardens is located at 2647 E. Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar.

The Los Angeles fitness and longevity studio known for its red and blue light workouts, infrared heat, and celebrity following has officially landed in Orange County. BURN opened its doors in Newport Beach this week, marking its first location outside LA.

The studio is celebrating with complimentary classes through the week. Spots are filling fast, but reservations are still open through the BURN app, so grab one while you can.

Opening week also brings surprise giveaways and partnerships with wellness and beauty brands including Counter Beauty, Beauty F(x), Kopari, Arrival Creatine, Taavi and Summer Fridays.

On Tuesday, BURN celebrated its Orange County debut with a ribbon-cutting alongside the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce. Founder Maria Chase and business partner David Charvet cut the ribbon together, officially welcoming the community to the studio's newest location.

What sets BURN apart:

45-minute classes built around Chase's proprietary BURN Method, including BURN45, ISO BURN and BURN & BUILD. BUILD, the brand's heavy weight-lifting class, will open in a separate studio at the same location this fall. The studio takes a "biostacking" approach, layering exercise with recovery and longevity tools, including medical-grade LED and near-infrared red light therapy built directly into the workout. Classes are designed to support strength, recovery, energy and long-term health.

BURN Newport Beach is located in Peninsula Village along Newport Harbor, joining a curated mix of dining, retail and wellness concepts in the waterfront development. 

2280 Newport Blvd, Suite 101 in Newport Beach.

Photo Credit: Blaire Going for BURN

Three years in the making, The Curated Life Shoppe opened in Laguna Beach this past April, and it was worth every moment of the wait.

Owner Michelle Trotter spent years traveling to France, handpicking products on each trip and putting them into storage until she found the right space to present them. She was specific about what that space needed to be. "I just knew that the base of the interior had to be white to highlight the beauty of each product," she says.

The result is a boutique destination filled with one-of-a-kind home goods, tabletop pieces, textiles and lifestyle products sourced directly from France and across Europe. Think French turbans, scarves and velvet pillows, hand-painted pillows, beach towels with matching duffle bags, Turkish towels and robes, wine glasses, 24-karat gold-rimmed cups and saucers, and soaps that might just replace your entire skincare routine.

The products have stories behind them, and Trotter sought them out intentionally. As she traveled and sourced, she listened for the makers who lit up when they talked about their craft. It was almost always women. "It wasn't just trial and error," she says. "It was apprenticeship and intention in crafting."

Two items have her particular attention. Her favorite beach bag and weekender, available in shades she calls mango and mojito, comes from a small-shop artisan in Toulouse who has scaled to meet growing demand without sacrificing quality. Then there are the soaps from Marseilles, which she stocks because they transformed her own skincare routine. "Allow such an indulgence without the flight to France," she says.

Trotter's love affair with French culture started in her teenage years, flipping through fashion magazines and gravitating toward the avant-garde color and design of the 1980s. Decades later, she traded holiday gifts one year for a family trip to Europe and never looked back. The experience became the foundation for her future travels, friendships built across the Atlantic, and eventually the inspiration for one of her children to settle in Paris permanently.

What she brings back from France is harder to bottle than any product. "When in France, I am always at peace, moving quietly, absorbing the ease of the people around me," she says. She describes sitting in a friend's brasserie, watching regulars place a coin on the counter each morning without a word, just a nod. That kind of easy exchange is the spirit she's after at The Curated Life.

Open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday to Saturday. 

The Curated Life is at 1540 S Coast Hwy in #104 Laguna Beach. 949.818.5433