What to Do Today

You could do the same old routine; go to a plaza with a bunch of chain restaurants and stores, walk aimlessly in the crowds, or go see a movie that you're not really interested in, but are going to watch it for the sake of doing something.

Or, you could check one of the many things going on in Orange County that are all unique and at the same time incredibly typical of living here:

• San Juan Capistrano: Still haven't gotten your fill of summer festivals? SJC is celebrating its 50th anniversary with a $35,000 show-jumping contest, pony rides and Jack Russell Terrier races!
• Costa Mesa: Visit some of the city's most popular restaurants without breaking the bank during the city's restaurant week. Check out their site for coupons and special deals.
• Fountain Valley: the Orange County BBQ Bonanza continues through the weekend, promising music, drinks, activities for kids, and of course, all kinds of bbq.
• Mission Viejo: Famous funny people Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson will be at the Norman P. Murray Community and Senior Center, reading from their upcoming book, The Bridge to Neverland.
• Laguna Beach: Do you watch “Criminal Minds”? If so, some of the cast members will be at the  Festival of Arts from 7 pm to 8:00 pm. Take pics, shake hands, try and smuggle yourself in Shemar Moore's pocket, no wait, that'll be my hiding place... 
• Lake Forest: Get your skate on with the pros when the Etnies Skate Park celebrates the launch of its new wing. Watch the demonstrations, listen to music, grab some tacos! 
• Santa Ana: Take the downtown trolley to visit the Santiago Arts District Art Walk or the "Posse on Broadway", where eleven venues get together for a block party as only Santa Ana knows how to do it.