🎃 Somewhere between spooky crafts and soft shoes, fall feels just right

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Is it just us, or is fall in Newport Beach the best kind of busy? From beachside parties to book nook storytime, there’s a little something for everyone right now.

We’re especially excited about this week’s local wins: a big honor for CJ’s Miky Lee at the film fest, a sharp new tequila blend crafted right here, and a dog named Duke who’s just waiting to be your new adventure buddy.

🍕 Harbor Views & Feel-Good Pizza

Fall might be packed with to-dos, but when farm-fresh meets waterfront chill at Skål Pizza, you know you’re in for a slow afternoon.

Founded by Malibu Farm’s Helene Henderson, this bright, breezy spot pairs wood-fired pies with views of the harbor that’ll make you forget your calendars. Try the pineapple chorizo pizza, pear-arugula salad, or a cocktail with frozen fruit; because balance, right? Learn more here.

👟 Step Lightly Into Fall

If it’s time to upgrade your kicks before the trick-or-treat chase begins, head to Allbirds at Fashion Island. The store is bright, simple, and filled with naturally comfy shoes that feel like walking on clouds.

Staff make shopping easy, whether you’re swapping sizes or finding the perfect Tree Runners. Bonus: every pair is sustainably made, so your feet and the planet both win. Learn more here.

🎬 CJ’s Miky Lee Honored at Newport Beach Film Festival

The Gist: CJ Group Vice Chairwoman Miky Lee received the Arts Champion Award at the 2025 Newport Beach Film Festival, recognizing her decades of work bridging Eastern and Western storytelling. Lee, who helped globalize Korean cinema through films like Parasite and Decision to Leave, was praised for her leadership in media and support of arts education.

Why It Matters: Lee’s influence continues to shape how Korean stories reach global audiences, strengthening creative exchange between cultures and inspiring new generations of filmmakers. Read more here.

🍹 Lido House Pours Coastal Elegance with New Tequila

The Gist: Lido House Executive Chef-Partner Riley Huddleston has unveiled a one-of-a-kind Código Tequila blanco, uniquely rested in Sauvignon Blanc barrels hand-selected in Tequila, Mexico. The result is a bright, refined spirit with coastal character; now featured at The Mayor’s Table, Topside Roof Deck, and as a special in-room cocktail amenity. Huddleston says the blend captures Newport Beach’s vibrant, sophisticated lifestyle.

Why It Matters: This collaboration brings local flair and craftsmanship to every sip, spotlighting the city’s growing cocktail culture. Read more here.

Sunshine, sea breeze, and one loyal companion: that’s Duke.

This German Shepherd and Husky mix is as bright and good-natured as a Newport Beach day. He’s friendly with everyone (dogs, cats, and kids!) and loves a good romp or a long walk along the coast.

House-trained, affectionate, and always up for adventure, Duke’s the kind of dog who makes every outing feel like a celebration. Adoption fee applies.

To learn more about this wonderful fellow, click HERE.

🚗 Car Fest 2025 | Balboa Pier | Newport Beach | 10/24–10/25 | More
Family-friendly show featuring 200+ vintage, classic, and exotic cars plus vendors & more.

💲💲 Walking With Anthony’s Stand Up for a Cause | Balboa Bay Resort | Newport Beach | 10/24 | More
Celebrate 15 years of hope & recovery at this star-studded gala benefiting SCI programs.

🎸 The Reflexx Pre-Halloween Party | Campus JAX | Newport Beach | 10/24 | More
A high-energy night of ‘80s new wave hits and Halloween fun: costumes encouraged!

🌸 Fall Female Maker Market | Lido Marina Village | Newport Beach | 10/25 | More
Shop 25+ women-owned brands with live art, poetry, pumpkin crafts, and free coffee.

🎃 Boo at the Bay: Family Halloween Party | Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve | Newport Beach | 10/25 | More
Free event with spooky stories, creepy crafts, and wacky science fun at the bay.

🩸 Journey to Blood Island | Balboa Fun Zone | Newport Beach | 10/29 | More
3-hour tiki horror cruise through a haunted Harbor featuring live performances & more!

🌟 Little Lido Kids Club: Storytime | Lido Village Books | Newport Beach | 10/30 | More
Sweet morning stories for little readers inside cozy Lido Village Books’ kids corner.

If you want to read any of our previous issues, check them out HERE on our website.