Good morning, Orange County. You’re reading Thrive OC, your weekly guide to the best local spots, happenings, and hidden gems across the coast and beyond. Here’s what’s on deck:

Let’s dive in.

— Dave Berry

Looking for farm-to-table flavors in a chic setting? Andrei's Conscious Cuisine & Cocktails in Irvine brings carefully sourced American dishes to a modern, loungy space that's perfect for a night out.

Must-try dishes? The juicy lamb burger and Scottish salmon never disappoint. Bonus points for cozy vibes by the fireplace or their private dining room for special occasions.

Where: 2607 Main St, Irvine, CA 92614 | Phone: (949) 387-8887

Spring doesn’t have to mean a packed schedule and another drink you regret tomorrow.

This season, I’m reaching for something different: Vesper by Pique.

Pique is known for blending ancient botanicals with modern science to create elevated wellness essentials. Vesper might be my favorite yet. It’s a non-alcoholic, adaptogenic aperitif that delivers the relaxed, social glow of a cocktail. Without alcohol or the next-day fog.

It’s what I pour when I want something special in my glass on a bright spring evening. Each sip feels celebratory and uplifting. Relaxed body. Clear mind. No haze. No sleep disruption.

Crafted with L-theanine, lemon balm, gentian root, damiana, and elderflower, Vesper is sparkling, tart, and beautifully herbaceous.

If you’re ready for a new kind of happy hour, try Vesper here. 🌿✨

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A lively community night where CdM Village comes alive with open businesses, live music, pop-ups, and interactive experiences. Expect everything from street performances to local giveaways and family-friendly activities. 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM | Corona del Mar Village (PCH) | Event Info

The Fullerton Night Market returns for the 2026 season with live music, food, and local makers in the heart of downtown. It’s the kind of weekly community event that’s perfect for casual wandering and seeing what catches your eye. 4:30 PM-8:30 PM | Downtown Plaza, 125 E. Wilshire Avenue, Fullerton | Event Info

A full-scale showcase of luxury yachts, marine innovation, and waterfront lifestyle. Expect immersive exhibits, entertainment, and a chance to explore everything from small watercraft to high-end vessels. Times vary | 3424 Via Lido, Newport Beach, CA 92663 | Event Info

Join the community for a lively evening of Lotería, the traditional Mexican game similar to bingo, with prizes and plenty of fun for families and friends. 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM | Family & Youth Center, 14722 Newport Ave, Tustin | Event Info

A free outdoor movie night featuring Shrek, plus games, food, and a laid-back atmosphere. Bring a blanket and settle in for a fun evening. 6:00 PM | 100 Park Ave, Aliso Viejo | Event Info

A high-energy, family-friendly event bringing together the off-road and overland community with live music, food, vendors, and demos. Expect BMX/MTB showcases, a kids zone, and a full day of outdoor culture. 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | 330 W Birch St, Brea | Event Info

A full-day festival celebrating island and reggae music, with live performances, food, and a strong community vibe. Starting at 12:00 PM | Great Park Live, Irvine | Event Info

A global food experience with 40+ vendors offering dishes from around the world. Come hungry. 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM | 201 W Center Street Promenade, Anaheim | Event Info

A high-energy night market packed with collectibles, streetwear, food, and music, all with a nostalgic Pokémon twist. 2:00 PM – 9:00 PM | 206 E 4th Street, Santa Ana | Event Info

A creative, slightly whimsical night market with local makers, food trucks, live music, and a fun, energetic vibe. 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM | 25282 Marguerite Pkwy, Mission Viejo, CA 92692 | Event Info

A weekend of unlimited tastings from dozens of vendors, live music, and food trucks. One of the bigger wine events of the season. Times vary | OC Fair & Event Center, Costa Mesa | Event Info

A Guinness World Record attempt right on the coast. Learn swing dancing, enjoy live music, and be part of something unique. No experience needed. 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM | 100 Main St, Newport Beach | Event Info

If you saw something glowing across the sky last Monday night, you weren’t imagining it. A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launched from Vandenberg, sending Starlink satellites into orbit and creating a bright, sweeping plume visible across Southern California. The launch happened just before 8 PM and was delayed a day due to weather. Another launch is already scheduled, so you might get a second chance to catch the show.

A major new project could be coming to Tustin. The city has selected a local developer to begin negotiations on transforming 52 acres of Tustin Legacy into a mixed-use space with retail, entertainment, housing, and open areas. The vision centers around a walkable, community-focused environment, similar to other successful OC developments. If approved, this could become one of the area’s most significant new hubs over the next few years.

History just happened right off the Southern California coast. NASA’s Artemis II crew safely splashed down in the Pacific near San Diego after a 10-day mission around the Moon—the first time humans have traveled toward the Moon in over 50 years and the farthest distance ever reached by a crew. After a high-speed, high-heat re-entry, the astronauts were safely recovered by teams in the ocean, marking a major step forward in NASA’s return to deep space.

Balboa swing, featured in this weekend’s record attempt, originated in Newport Beach during the Big Band era. It developed in crowded beach pavilions like the Balboa Pavilion, where dancers created a smooth, close-hold style that has since spread worldwide.

Think you know OC? Reply with your best trivia, and we might feature it next!

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Looking for live tunes? Here’s what’s happening:

Friday, April 17:

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