Saving Christmas, Helping Hands, Best Light Displays: Saturday Smiles

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA, CA — Need a break from all the doom and gloom in the world? This weekend, with the holidays in full swing, Patch has found the lighter side of Southern California news we hope you will enjoy.

Between new businesses, community members doing good around town and local events, Southern California is definitely the place to be as December takes shape.

Business

Encinitas Cottage Restaurant Serves Brunch, Lunch With SoCal Flavors

After serving up delicious breakfasts and lunches in La Jolla for 30 years, The Cottage restaurant has found its footing in Encinitas.

46-Acre Murrieta Hot Springs Resort Project Gets Spotlight

The project is returning the Calvary Chapel Bible College on Murrieta Hot Springs Road back into a wellness retreat.

Inland Empire Economic Recovery Outpacing Coastal Regions: UCR Report

Growth in employment, labor force, consumer spending, building permits and commercial real estate are factors cited in the quarterly report.

Record-Setting Holiday Travel Predicted At Palm Springs Intl. Airport

"We're planning for a very busy holiday season this year," said Executive Director of Aviation Harry Barret in a statement.

Entertainment

Cirque du Soleil Coming To Coachella Valley For First Time Ever

Four "Corteo" shows will be presented in 2023, and ticket sales are underway.

Actress Angela Bassett Getting Props In Palm Springs

Variety is honoring Bassett with its Creative Impact in Acting Award at next month's Palm Springs International Film Festival.

Local Heroes

Carlsbad Cops Assist Visitor With Return Of Lost Cell Phone

It's all about the little things this time of year. When Carlsbad Police learned of an out-of-towner losing their phone, they lent a hand.

Duck Hunter Stranded On Salton Sea Rescued By Coast Guard Helicopter

The man was adrift in a shallow area about 300 feet off the northwest shore, according to authorities.

OC Family Gets A Christmas Tree, Thanks To Firefighters, Deputies
An Orange County family got the surprise of the season when firefighters and deputies showed up at their door with a Christmas tree.

Holidays

San Diego Wildlife Alliance Puts Final Touches On Rose Parade Float

San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park are showcased in the 2023 Rose Parade, celebrating conservation and some beloved animals.

CA Christmas, Holiday Yard Displays Sought For 2022 Tour O' Lights
Do you have the best Christmas decorations in town? Send us photos and a description for Patch's 2022 tour o' lights.

Indian Tribes From Across US Are Coming To Temecula For Pechanga Powwow

The event has been on an eight-year hiatus but will return next month, officials announced.

'Holiday Road' Walk-Thru Wonderland; Menorah Lightings: SoCal Weekend

Looking for things to do this weekend in Southern California? Patch has you covered.

Christmas Events & Hanukkah Fests 2022: San Diego CountyYour guide to menorah lightings, holiday light extravaganzas, Nutcrackers, concerts, Santa & more throughout the San Diego region.

School/Sports

Malibu Boys & Girls Club Host Toy Drive In Oxnard

The Boys & Girls Club of Malibu hosted its annual toy drive and party to support families at Fred L. Williams Elementary in Oxnard.

Big Rock Park Pickleball Courts Plan More Improvements, Fundraisers

A 24-hour pickleball court closure disrupted the favored pastime for many Santee residents. Here's why they weren't sad about it.