In partnership with

Good morning, Orange County, and Happy Memorial Day 🇺🇸 You’re reading Thrive OC, the newsletter that's always sunny, even when the June Gloom hits. Here’s what’s on deck today:

• Brunch Perfection in Costa Mesa

• Jazz Festival Returns (+ Other Awesome Events)

• Local Beers Win Big

• Hotel Laguna Faces Backlash

• Honda Center's $1B Upgrade

Let’s dive in.

— Dave Berry

🍽️ Restaurant of the Week: Lemon & Thyme

If cozy vibes, mouthwatering comfort food, and the perfect brunch are your thing, look no further than Lemon & Thyme in Costa Mesa.

This quaint spot dishes out delicious small plates alongside carefully selected wines and beers. Whether you’re craving thick-cut French toast or light, savory bites, they’ve got you covered.

Don’t miss: Their Sunday brunch—perfect for a relaxed morning meetup.

📍 Where: 1907 Harbor Blvd, Costa Mesa, CA

🏄 Local News You Should Know

🍺 OC Breweries Take Home Gold at the 'Olympics of Beer'

Orange County's craft beer scene is on top of the world—literally! At the recent 2025 World Beer Cup, Anaheim’s very own Golden Road Brewing and Brewery X, along with Everywhere Brewery in Orange, snagged prestigious gold medals against global competition.

Golden Road’s famous Mango Cart earned top honors in the Fruit Wheat Beer category, while Brewery X’s Super Slap was crowned best American-Style IPA. Everywhere Brewery's Shifted Visions dominated the Juicy or Hazy IPA category.

OC breweries made an impressive showing—California beers overall took home 76 awards. Time to toast with some local brews!

🏖️ Hotel Laguna Under Fire Over Private Beach Claims

Laguna Beach residents aren't thrilled with Hotel Laguna, which is facing renewed criticism—and possible fines—for placing "private property" signs and furniture on public beaches.

California's Coastal Act prohibits businesses from obstructing public beach access without permits. Hotel Laguna previously faced similar violations and promised compliance, yet residents and officials claim the issue persists.

The California Coastal Commission hopes to resolve this by May 23. Otherwise, the hotel might face steep penalties—up to $11,250 per day.

🏟️ Honda Center Getting $1 Billion Upgrade Ahead of Olympics

Big news for sports and entertainment fans: Anaheim’s Honda Center will undergo a massive $1 billion upgrade ahead of hosting indoor volleyball during the 2028 Summer Olympics.

Expect impressive new features, including:

• A five-story digital entrance

• Improved food and beverage areas

• Enhanced luxury suites and private event spaces

• Three new parking garages totaling 6,000 spots

Officials promise these renovations won't interrupt current events and should solidify Honda Center’s reputation as a top-tier global destination.

📅 Upcoming Events 🎉

🎺 Newport Beach Jazz Festival (May 30 – June 1)

Since 1996, OC’s iconic Jazz Fest brings legendary performers and rising stars to the Hyatt Regency Newport Beach. Expect three days packed with amazing tunes and laid-back vibes. Event Details Here.

When: May 30 – June 1 | 11AM–11PM

📍 1107 Jamboree Rd, Newport Beach

🍜 626 Night Market OC (May 30 – June 1)

Inspired by Asia’s famed open-air night bazaars, the 626 Night Market at the OC Fairgrounds features hundreds of food and craft vendors, live entertainment, and endless tasty bites. Don't miss this culinary paradise. Tickets & Info.

When: May 30 – June 1 | 4PM to 11PM

📍 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, CA 92626

🎨 Sawdust Art Festival (Starting June 27)

Laguna Beach’s beloved nine-week art fest is back! Explore whimsical pathways, handmade art from over 180 artists, live music, and creative workshops. More Info.

📍 935 Laguna Canyon Rd, Laguna Beach, CA 92651

🔍 Dana Point Citywide Scavenger Hunt (June 1–30)

Explore Dana Point’s vibrant history through an interactive, month-long scavenger hunt hosted by "Stand Up to Trash." Discover iconic local spots from Salt Creek to Doheny. Join the Adventure.

📍 Del Prado Ave, Dana Point, CA 92629

🍸 Thrive After Dark (Date & Location TBA)

We’re thrilled to announce Thrive OC’s first-ever live event: Thrive After Dark. Enjoy an intimate evening of live music, short talks from creative local minds, and genuine connections—no awkward networking, just real conversations and a little unpredictability. Spots will be limited, VIP members get discounted tickets.

Reply “Yes” to this email if you’re interested!

🌟 OC Trivia: Did You Know?

Did you know that Laguna Beach was once home to one of California’s earliest artist colonies? Established in the early 1900s, this creative hub quickly grew into a bustling arts community, eventually leading to iconic events like the Sawdust Festival and the renowned Pageant of the Masters.

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

🎉 VIP Shoutouts!

A big welcome to our newest Thrive OC VIPs—Melanie and James! Thanks for being part of the community—we’ve got some exclusive perks coming your way! 🚀✨

🎶 Live Music This Weekend

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

Friday, May 30:

1. Alza Italian Kitchen (Rancho Santa Margarita) – Jason Bohen, 6:00 PM

2. Barnoa Wine Company (San Clemente) – Sandii Castleberry, 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM

3. Bigshots Billiards Bar & Grill (Lake Forest) – The Trip, 8:30 PM

4. Knuckleheads (San Clemente) – High Ball Steppers, 8:00 PM – 11:55 PM

5. The Drake (Laguna Beach) – Rain Bissou Band, 6:30 PM – 10:30 PM

6. The Coach House (San Juan Capistrano) – Yachty By Nature, 9:00 PM

7. Campus JAX (Newport Beach) – The Reflexx, 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM

8. Biergarten (Huntington Beach) – The Flux Capacitors, 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM

9. La Santa (Santa Ana) – Beborn Beton, Gentleman Junkie, Blaklight, 9:00 PM

10. Perqs Bar (Huntington Beach) – Back to the Future 80/90’s, 9:00 PM – 1:00 AM

11. The Harp Inn (Costa Mesa) – SuperDelux, 8:30 PM – 12:30 AM

12. The Wayfarer (Costa Mesa) – Sega Genecide, 10:00 PM

🌦️ 7-Day Weather Forecast

🌅 Sunrise & Sunset in OC

🙌 Shop Local & Rep OC in Style

Thrive OC is more than your go-to newsletter for events and local news—we're your source for uniquely curated OC-inspired essentials, apparel, and more. Check out our latest arrivals, designed to keep you stylish and comfortable all season long:

🌸 Florira Notched Neck Short Sleeve Tee

Soft, lightweight, and effortlessly chic, this everyday tee features a stylish notched neckline for a casual yet polished look. Perfectly pairs with jeans, shorts, or skirts—ideal for brunch, errands, or relaxing weekends.

✨ Contrast Trim V-Neck Short Sleeve Knit Top

Upgrade your casual style with this ultra-soft knit top featuring contrast trim detailing. Flattering, breathable, and just the right amount of stretch—great for layering, lounging, or working from home in comfort.

As always, FREE shipping on every order! Every purchase directly supports Thrive OC, helping us spotlight the best of Orange County every week.

💛 Want to support but not shopping today? You can still help keep Thrive OC running strong — Donate here.

Or, take your OC experience to the next level—join Thrive OC VIP for exclusive discounts, VIP event access, and insider perks while supporting local businesses!

Your support means the world—thank you for being part of the Thrive OC community! 🙌

The Daily Newsletter for Intellectually Curious Readers

Join over 4 million Americans who start their day with 1440 – your daily digest for unbiased, fact-centric news. From politics to sports, we cover it all by analyzing over 100 sources. Our concise, 5-minute read lands in your inbox each morning at no cost. Experience news without the noise; let 1440 help you make up your own mind. Sign up now and invite your friends and family to be part of the informed.

Join for free today!

📢 Want to Advertise?

Do you have a business, product, service, brand, or event that you want to promote or feature? Contact us!

And if you loved this newsletter, forward it to a friend 👇

Thanks!

Thanks for reading Thrive OC today. If you found something useful, please share it with someone who you think could Thrive in OC.

P.S. We value your thoughts, feedback, and questions - feel free to respond directly to this email!

… and if you enjoyed this email, be sure to thank the person who forwarded it to you and subscribe to get your own copy!