🌿 Your week ahead could be filled with some stargazing, storytime, and hikes

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There is something about that first warm stretch of the year that makes you want to say yes to everything. A park day turns into a sunset walk, which somehow turns into trivia night with friends.

We rounded up the best of what is happening around Newport Beach so you can make the most of it. If you need us, we will be debating dark chocolate versus milk on Marine Ave. See you around!

🍌 The coastal gold standard for frozen treats

Walking down from Sugar ’n Spice with a double-dipped banana in hand is a local rite of passage that never loses its charm. Since 1945, it has anchored the island with a breezy, timeless energy and a commitment to making every treat to order.

For a perfect pairing, try a Balboa Bar dipped in dark chocolate and rolled in Heath bar crumbles (the crunch is legendary!) It’s the kind of simple, elevated joy that makes a casual harbor stroll feel like a special occasion.

🎨 Design your own wearable art

BLSSD the Label has created a bright space where creativity takes center stage. You can spend an afternoon browsing through thousands of colorful patches and gold-filled charms to assemble something that is entirely your own.

Whether you are designing a custom trucker hat for a sunny afternoon or a delicate necklace with 18k gold-plated accents, this mother-daughter duo makes the process feel like a shared project among friends.

It is a lovely spot to gather for a bit of jewelry making or to pick out a thoughtful gift that carries a bit of local heart.

🌿 Adventure Awaits in Our Parks This March

The Gist: Orange County Parks is launching a full calendar of outdoor activities to celebrate the warmer weather. From guided nature hikes and scavenger hunts to stargazing parties and preschool story times, there are dozens of ways to explore our local trails and beaches throughout the month. These community programs offer a mix of free and low cost opportunities to learn about local wildlife, help with habitat restoration, or simply enjoy a guided walk through our beautiful preserves.

Why It Matters: Getting outside together strengthens our connection to the local landscape and helps preserve these natural spaces for everyone to enjoy. Events began this week with the Spring Fling Preschool Program. You can view the full schedule and register for specific activities at ocparks.com or letsgooutside.org.

🏥 A Heartfelt Gift for Local Families

The Gist: Vanessa Bryant has established the Kobe and Vanessa Bryant Family Court at Hoag Hospital in Newport Beach. This dedicated space in the Women’s Pavilion serves as a peaceful departure area for patients and newborns preparing to head home. The gift honors the family’s deep connection to the hospital where all four Bryant daughters were born.

Why It Matters: This meaningful contribution supports local healthcare services while providing a warm, comforting environment for neighbors during one of life’s most significant transitions.

🐾 Mufasa, a 10 month old Terrier mix, brings a bright spark of energy!

Weighing in at nineteen pounds, he is the perfect size for neighborhood strolls or weekend hikes. This young fellow arrived from San Bernardino with a curiosity for life and a genuine love for toys.

He is friendly with other dogs and well suited for active households with children. His adoption fee is $375.00.

To learn more about this handsome boy,

🌸 Spring Dreamers Market | Westcliff Plaza | Newport Beach | 03/07 | More
Celebrate the season with vibrant culture, local crafts, and delicious treats.

📚 Friends of the Library Closing Book Sale | Balboa Branch | Newport Beach | 03/07 | More
Final sale: $3 bags and $5 boxes of inventory, with children's books, fiction, & DVDs.

🎾 SXY Open: PPA Tour | Tennis Club | Newport Beach | until 03/08 | More
World-class pickleball professionals compete in high-stakes championship matches!

🎼 Mozart Requiem | St. Michael and All Angels | Newport Beach | 03/08 | More 
Stirring choral performance of a classical masterpiece in an intimate, resonant chapel.

🎸 Bangers: British Rock Tribute | Campus JAX | Newport Beach | 03/08 | More 
A musical journey through the iconic sounds and fashions of the British Invasion.

🍺 Trivia Night: Pizza Port | Mutt’s Eastbluff | Newport Beach | 03/10 | More
Put your knowledge to the test with cold pints of Chronic and exclusive promotional cans.

📖 Preschool Storytime | Central Library | Newport Beach | 03/12 | More 
A morning of interactive literacy, rhythmic songs, and creative crafts for young learners.

🏠 52nd Annual CDM Home Tour | Various Locations | Newport Beach | 03/13 | More
Explore designer homes with a morning reception, luncheon, and garden after-party!