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7 Top Places To Celebrate Graduation In LA & OC

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With graduations coming up and happening already, you might want to have a party location lined up. This is no kiddie party with bounce houses and giant talking mice. Kick it up a notch with a fancy spot overlooking somewhere beautiful.

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Sportsmen's Lodge
12825 Ventura Boulevard
Studio City, CA 91604
(818) 769-4700
www.sportsmenslodge.com

The historic 1880's landmark, which recently underwent renovation, is a popular venue for celebrations and dinners. The Sportsmen's Lodge is known for their lavish outdoor grounds which feature towering redwood trees, ponds, waterfalls, gardens, spacious decks, and gazebos. Guests can select from 10 rooms in varying sizes for their event, many of which feature built-in stages, bars, and dance floors. The venue houses two full-service kitchens and will work to ensure your menu is personal and memorable. Be sure to mention your preference for ethnic or themed events and menus when inquiring.

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Castaway Restaurant
1250 East Harvard Road
Burbank, CA 91501-1096
(818) 848-6691
www.castawayrestaurant.com

With spectacular views and award-winning cuisine, the restaurant remains a popular venue for private parties and themed events. The restaurant offers full-service, all-inclusive event planning which can include everything from the invitations and transportation to the menu and entertainment. Select from one of 5 rooms or venture outside into their gardens for a truly unique and memorable celebration. If you prefer, you can select from one of eight special event packages.

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Mountain Gate Country Club
12445 MountainGate Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90049
(310) 476-6215
www.mtngatecc.com

Located at the base of the Santa Monica mountains, the picturesque golf course and club is an elegant setting for special celebrations and events. The Garden Terrace, popular for larger events, can hold up to 500 guests. Country Club staff will work with you to plan your event, ensuring that it's stress-free.

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The Cliff Restaurant Laguna Beach
577 South Coast Highway
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
(949) 494-1956
www.thecliffrestaurant.com

Located in the Laguna Village artist community, the Cliff Restaurant offers 180 degree ocean views and a world class menu. The venue offers a variety of full service packages and options to select from when planning your celebration. Staff can assist with personalized planning to ensure your event is unique and special.

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Angelo's and Vinci's
50 North Harbor Boulevard
Fullerton, CA 92832-1516
(714) 879-4022
www.angelosandvincis.com

The family-run restaurant, located in historic downtown Fullerton, was listed in the top five Italian restaurants in Los Angeles. The atmosphere is lively and festive and the decor reminiscent of old Italy. Their professional staff includes event coordinators, bartenders, DJs, and master of ceremonies. The restaurant's extensive menu features over 50 pasta dishes, made with fresh ingredients and imported Italian cheese. The venue is known for hand-rolling and stuffing their pastas, baking their own bread and creating their sauces from scratch. Be sure to check out their pre-selected event menus for your special celebration.

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Christmas House Inn
9240 Archibald Avenue
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730
(909) 980-6450
www.christmashouseinn.com

This historical landmark, which was built in 1904, has a rich history. It became known as the Christmas House because of the traditional festivities celebrated each year and the red and green stained glass throughout the house. Today, the house and gardens can be rented out for private celebrations. Choose from either an informal dinner party inside the house or a more traditional, formal dinner party where guests are seated in the gardens.

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Avila Terrace
3663 Main St.
Riverside, CA 92501
(805) 646-0082
www.avilaterrace.com

Located in downtown Riverside, the Avila Terrace is the original home of The Gourmet Detective, a murder mystery dinner show. These days, you can host an event at the banquet facility, which features a simple art deco Interior and Terrace overlooking the downtown mall walk. A representative from the facility can assist with catering and planning your event to ensure your celebration is personal and special.

Caryn Bailey is the mother of two and the blogger of Rockin' Mama.

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