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Best Upcoming Events In OC To Bring the Family This Spring

Header_FestofWhales 610
(Credit: Dale Frink)

Thanks to its pleasant climate, Orange County residents typically don't suffer as much "cabin fever" as the rest of the county. Spring in the OC does, however, offer plenty of opportunities to get out of the house to enjoy what the state has to offer. From events that explore nature up close to national touring companies and expositions, you are sure to find something for the whole family this spring in Orange County.

arbor day celebration
(Credit: stefanolunardi/shutterstock)

Arbor Day Celebration
Central Park
7821 Walker Street
La Palma, CA 90623
www.cityoflapalma.org
Date: April 19, 2016 from 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

The Lorax, Dr. Seuss' classic character, spoke for the trees when no one else would. In La Palma, you and your family also can speak for the trees during the Arbor Day Celebration. On April 19, bring the family to this Orange County destination for a day of tree planting and school age crafts. The younger members of the family may also submit coloring and art contest entries before April 19. Contest forms can be picked up at the La Palma Community Services Office or downloaded from the city website.

Sesame Street's Bert and Ernie
Sesame Street's Bert and Ernie (Photo by Matthew Simmons/Getty Images)

Sesame Street Live: Make A New Friend
City National Grove of Anaheim
2200 East Katella Avenue
Anaheim, CA 92806
(74) 712-2700
www.citynationalgroveofanaheim.com
Dates: May 27 and 28, 2016

Since its inception, "Sesame Street" has focused on diversity, inclusion and building self-confidence. "Make a New Friend," a new traveling show features Elmo, Grover and the rest of the gang, introduces everyone to Chamki, Grover's friend who is visiting Sesame Street from India. Bring the family to City National Grove in Anaheim on May 27 and 28 for a great time. Ticket prices range from $20 in the upper tier to $45 down in the Gold Circle.

whale
(credit: Mogens Trolle/shutterstock)

Annual Gray Whale Migration
Newport Landing Whale Watching
309 Palm Street Suite A
Newport Beach, CA 92661
(949) 675-0551
www.newportwhales.com
Dates: Continuing through May 31, 2016

As the weather turns warmer, Orange County is a great place to see beautiful gray whales as they make their way to the summer feeding grounds. Newport Landing Whale Watching can take you and the family out on a cruise to see these majestic mammals along the Newport Beach Coastline. The company offers three cruises daily that offer great opportunities for whale watching. During the week, adult tickets are $32 while children under 12 and seniors pay $26; toddlers under 2 are free. Weekend rates are $36 for adults and $30 for children and seniors.

Related:  Best Beaches for Kids in Orange County

America's Family Pet Expo
(credit: Michelle T./Yelp)

America's Family Pet Expo
OC Fair & Event Center
88 Fair Drive
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
(714) 708-1500
www.petexpooc.org
Dates: April 22-24, 2016

The OC definitely is a pet-friendly area, which makes it perfect for this event. Spread over three days in April, the Pet Expo offers plenty of products designed for dogs, cats, reptiles, birds and fish. If you are thinking about getting a pet for the kids, the Expo offers hands-on opportunities and good pet education. The police department also will be on hand to demonstrate how their canine officers keep the OC safe. General admission to America's Family Pet Expo is $13; seniors pay $11 and children ages 6-12 are $8. Active and retired military members and children ages 5 and under are free. Please remember, though, to keep your pets at home before coming to the Event Center.

Irvine Park Railroad
(Credit: Courtesy of Irvine Park Railroad)

California History Education Program Public Day
Irvine Park Railroad
1 Irvine Park Road
Orange, CA 92869
(714) 997-3968
www.irvineparkrailroad.com

California has a rich, diverse and colorful history and this educational events explores quite a bit of it. Parents and children can see what it was like to be a miner and how people got across the state before automobiles and highways. Tickets are $14.00 per person and you will need to call the number shown above to make reservations. You are welcome to bring a picnic or sack lunch or you may purchase food from the snack bar.

Related: Best Family-Friendly Spring Break Getaways Near Orange County

Born in St. Louis, Missouri, Steven Bryan calls Irvine, California his home. A freelance writer for more than 20 years, he has interviewed a wide range of notable celebrities, including a variety of up-and-coming musicians and artists as well. Passionate about movies and comic books, he also makes an annual pilgrimage to the San Diego Comic-Con.
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