👟 Your weekend & beyond: pickleball pros, beach yoga, plus experimental ice cream scoops!

_{Was this e-mail shared with you? Sign up here.}

Did February just fly by, or is it just us? One minute we were easing into the new year, the next we’re juggling film nights at the Lido, lanterns glowing at Fashion Island, and weekend plans that somehow fill up by Wednesday.

We’ve been hearing from more of you lately too, new subscribers, thoughtful business tips, event leads, and the occasional “how did I not know about this?” That message is our favorite.

There’s a lot happening in this pocket of the coast, tucked between harbor sunsets and busy restaurant patios, and it deserves more than a quick scroll past. So here’s your nudge to claim a spot on the calendar, try something you have not before, and maybe bump into a neighbor while you’re at it?

🥗 Big flavor and community spirit on tap

The Stand has become a reliable backdrop for those easy, mid-week meals with how the food is consistently excellent.

The short rib grilled cheese is a rich, savory win, but the new red curry chicken sandwich (topped with Thai basil and crispy onion strings) is the move for anyone craving something bright and unexpected.

If you're planning a gathering, their March bonus is particularly timely. All fundraisers booked throughout the month earn a generous 25% back for your organization, making it a seamless way to support a favorite cause while catching up over a Mint Chocolate Crunch shake. Hospitality truly feels as genuine as their ingredients!

🍦 Experimental scoops for the adventurous palate

Time for your walk toward the water to lead to Salt & Straw’s familiar green umbrellas and the scent of freshly pressed waffle cones!

The counter is filled with a reimagined box of chocolates, including a salted vanilla base packed with almond caramel bars and dark chocolate stracciatella. The rich brownie waffle cones are still warm when they reach your hand, providing a salty, chocolatey crunch that grounds the more whimsical, seasonal flavors.

🏮 Lunar New Year Magic at Fashion Island

The Gist: Step into a world of red lanterns and glowing installations this Saturday at the Fashion Island paseo. This one-day cultural celebration brings the spirit of the Spring Festival to our coast, featuring a Year of the Horse centerpiece near Nordstrom, lion dancing, and calligraphy demos.

Why It Matters: This is a lovely way to experience global traditions and find winter travel inspiration right here in our own neighborhood. Visit "The Hideaway" across from the Apple store on Saturday, February 28, 2026, for the full festival experience.

📽️ A Glimpse into Newport’s Rowdy Past

The Gist The Balboa Island Museum and Newport Harbor Historical Society are hosting a special screening of "Sin City: Newport Beach" tonight at the newly restored Lido Theater. This film explores our town's transformation from a 1920s playground of gambling and secret speakeasies into the coastal destination we call home today. Guests can enjoy drinks and small bites while admiring the theater's meticulous Art Deco restoration.

Why It Matters It is a rare chance to celebrate our local heritage inside a beautifully preserved landmark that shaped the heart of our community. Doors open at 5 p.m. today, February 26, with the film starting at 6 p.m. Tickets are $50 at the door or on the museum website.

🐾 Autumn is a bright spot at the Newport Beach Animal Shelter.

Bringing a sense of curiosity and playfulness to everyone she meets, this small Manx kitten weighs under six pounds and sports a lovely buff tabby coat. She is an affectionate companion who already navigates her days with house-trained manners. She enjoys the company of other cats!

To learn more about this beautiful girl,

🥁 Joe Cocker Tribute | Campus JAX | Newport Beach | 02/27 | More 
Powerful, soul-stirring performance honoring the legendary grit of blues-rock history.

🎸 Midnight Curfew | Muldoons Irish Pub | Newport Beach | 02/27 | More 
Lively performance of classic rock, mellow hits, and dance music in a cozy pub.

🎾 OC Tennis Social | Tennis & Pickleball Club | Newport Beach | 02/27 | More 
Social evening of drills and point play with terrace mocktails and coastal vibes.

🐳 World Wildlife Day Celebration | Civic Center | Newport Beach | 02/28 | More
Artistic displays and educational exhibits honoring the beauty of the natural world.

💥 80s Dance Party | The Blue Beet | Newport Beach | 02/28 | More 
High-energy 80s covers and dance floor favorites featuring vibrant live vocals.

🎻 Baroque Music Fest Gala | St. Mark Presbyterian | Newport Beach | 03/01 | More Sophisticated concert and banquet celebrating the brilliance of classical masterpieces.

🎾 The Newport Beach Open | Tennis & Pickleball Club | Newport Beach | 03/02-03/08 | More 
The world’s top pickleball professionals compete for major prizes in this tournament!

🐾 BARK: Read to a Dog | Central Library | Newport Beach | 03/03 | More 
Session for ages 6-11 to build reading fluency and confidence with friendly therapy dogs.