The “Simpsons Forever” Celebrates 300 hours on Disney+

October 16, 2020

Disney+, which launched last November giving “The Simpsons” a new streaming home, is now the ultimate entertainment hub for fans of Springfield’s most famous residents. With the recently added 31st season and nearly 300 hours of the world’s longest-running scripted primetime sitcom, today Disney+ kicked off its new “Simpsons Forever” brand campaign celebrating the forever place of everyone’s favorite family in the hearts and homes of fans around the world.

The service also debuted “The Simpsons Horror” collection, including 30 episodes of the iconic genre-bending “Treehouse of Horror” franchise. The new collection is the latest in Disney+’s series of themed sets including “The Simpsons Predicts,” “The Simpsons Travels,” “The Simpsons Rock” and “The Simpsons Sports” collections. As part of the “Simpsons Forever” campaign, Disney+ will curate more collections of episodes for new viewers to discover. Every month, Disney+ will also highlight its favorite episodes themed to current events and trends in Disney and pop culture.

“The Simpsons” Forever Faves of November 2020:

“The Mandalorian” Returns / “Co-Dependents’ Day” (Season 15, Episode 15)

Disappointed by a Cosmic Wars movie, Bart and Lisa go to wine country to complain to the filmmaker.

“The Right Stuff” Streaming Now / “Deep Space Homer” (Season 5, Episode 15)

In an attempt to send an average man into space, Homer and Barney are recruited as astronauts. Homer saves the mission from disaster but is dismayed when credit goes to a carbon rod.

Monday Night Football on ESPN / “Bart Star” (Season 9, Episode 7)

Bart joins a junior-league football team. When Homer becomes coach, he replaces quarterback Nelson with the less talented Bart.

30 Years of “Home Alone” / “Homer Alone” (Season 3, Episode 15)

When Marge goes to a local spa, she leaves Bart and Lisa with Patty and Selma and Maggie with Homer.

Nov. 3 Election Day – “Sideshow Bob Roberts” (Season 6, Episode 5)

Sideshow Bob runs for mayor as the candidate of Springfield’s Republican party. He wins and attempts to construct a freeway overpass where the Simpson home stands.

Nov. 26 Thanksgiving Day – “Thanksgiving of Horror” (Season 30, Episode 8)

Three tales of Thanksgiving terror: a bloody first “turkey day,” a virtual Marge cooks for survival against real Marge, and a space mission is threatened by a murderous side dish.

Nov. 27 Black Friday – “Tis the 30th Season” (Season 30, Episode 10)

After a terrible Black Friday where Marge can’t get the gift the kids desperately want, the Simpsons try to spend a relaxing Florida Christmas.

After first premiering on television nearly 31 years ago, “The Simpsons” is now one of the most popular franchises around the world and remains one of Disney+’s most-streamed series since the service launched last November.

With its “Simpsons Forever” campaign, Disney+ is celebrating fans’ forever love of Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa, and Maggie and the service’s comprehensive collection of “The Simpsons” entertainment. The campaign will come to life all year long with on-service content and product updates, special events, social activations, and surprise and delight moments.

Disney+ recently surprised guests at the Disney+ Drive-In Festival with special “The Simpsons” screenings during its nightly lineups. And earlier this year, the service launched a product update allowing fans to enjoy “The Simpsons” episodes in their original aspect ratio and also offered the short “Maggie Simpson in ‘Playdate with Destiny’” across its social channels for free.

To watch all of “The Simpsons” content on Disney+ including 31 seasons of the series, animated shorts “Maggie Simpsons in ‘The Longest Daycare’” and “Maggie Simpson in ‘Playdate with Destiny,’” and “The Simpsons Movie,” visit DisneyPlus.com/SimpsonsForever.

Sold-Out Knott’s Taste of Fall-O-Ween 2020 is Impressive

Russell Tom

September 29, 2020

Knott’s Taste of Fall-o-ween is a hidden gem that is not to be missed this Halloween season. In fact, it may very well be the most positive entertainment highlight of 2020. It has redefined what a “Knott’s Spooky Farm” can really offer. This can easily be the start of a new seasonal offering warrant its own separate hard-ticket event on non-scary Farm days. An equal competitive match against Disney’s Halloween Parties. In fact, Disney could learn a lesson or two from Knott’s.

The event doesn’t give a hint of feeling slapped together at the last minute. It’s well thought out given the health restrictions from putting on full shows and ride experiences. The operation gives a sense this was planned well over a year in advance.

If you ever experienced and enjoyed Ghost Town Alive! in the summers at Knott’s Berry Farm, you’ll love their Halloween edition! The spirits of Calico become the undead in the daytime. They’ll also energetically coax guests into returning to the town at nightfall to experience Calico like never before with colorful lighting and breezy fog effects. Even the recorded spiel played over the park speakers offer fun character-themed safety reminders.

The cemetery rises with the spellbinding immersion of ghostly projections highlighting a grave of a citizen that once walked the earth. You may have even already met their spirit earlier in the day! Makes a Disney fan want to see Disney imitate this creativity for their Haunted Mansion queue.

Fall-o-ween Daytime Atmosphere

1 of 27

If anyone has been sore or timid about missing out on the previous food events at Knott’s Berry Farm, Taste of Fall-o-ween blows away all prior conceptions. Not only is the atmosphere and interaction the most extensive, but the food quality has also been raised another level. Any negative aspects from before were practically forgotten.

If you plan on only spending a couple of hours in the park, you might as well just spend the whole day and night. It really does bring a little bit of joy the world could use right now. Alongside even more hand sanitizer stations, seating, social distance markers, pre-recorded safety reminders, face masks, and limited park capacity.

Food quality and portion size have stepped up this season. The pastrami items are very flavorful. The side tip of the soft-serve ice cream on the Graveyard Funnel cake made it look like a witch’s hat. A sweet but not overpowering treat. The pumpkin spice ratio in the Pumpkin Bun will test your taste buds. Cannoli contained a pumpkin pie-like filling. Riblets look sad with its over-sized paper plate, yet still tasty. Vegetarian Meatball made me forget there was no meat used.

The sweet potato waffle fries are delicious in their own right. The aroma alone from the curry was to die for. The Cookiewich uses soft serve in Calico and hand-scooped in the Boardwalk. But equally messy. The Boysenberry smoothie was rich even in the small cup size. I was too full to try the Pumpkin Spice Pecan Crumble Bar in the park. So I took it home and later ate it with whip cream topping. Verdict: So Good! And very sharable.

Food Tasting Photo Gallery

1 of 25

Camp Snoopy is its own slice of family-friendly adventure that becomes Camp Spooky upon nightfall. Trick-or-treating for candy is an additional cost for adults but is included in children’s Taste Cards. Or just skip the candy and be taken on a delightful stroll through this end of the theme park. It’s not uncommon to take a daylight AND nightlight tour. You’ll also have a better chance at spotting the Headless Horseman riding here on the search for a head to chop.

Camp Snoopy Trick-or-Treat Trail

1 of 33

Ghost Town comes ALIVE in the evening. The ‘Into the Fog’ art exhibit makes a triumphant return just across from the awaiting Knott’s Bear-y Tales: Return to the Fair 4D interactive dark ride.

Nightfall and Art Exhibit

1 of 16

Knott’s Scary Farm Halloween Haunt may be canceled for 2020, but Knott’s Berry Farm rose to the challenge and excelled beyond any expectations. Treat yourself to a day of Halloween fun with Knott’s Taste of Fall-o-ween at Knott’s Berry Farm before tickets sell out. Tasting Cards available online at www.knotts.com. The event operates Friday through Sundays until November 1, 2020, but as of the publication date, the event is sold out.

Disney+ Announces Outdoor Screening Series

Socalthrills Staff

September 25, 2020

From October 5-12, 2020, movies will come to life at the Disney+ Drive-In Festival at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, California. The screening series will bring guests together to enjoy the best of Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic under the stars in a safe and entertaining experience.

The week will kick off with the world premiere of “The Right Stuff” before it starts streaming Friday, October 9 on Disney+. After six nights of fan-favorite screenings open to the public, the series will wrap with the premiere of the Disney+ Original Movie “Clouds,” debuting October 16 on the service.

The festival will be filled with beloved movie nights celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Walt Disney Animation Studios film “Tangled” and the 40th anniversary of “Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back” alongside the Los Angeles return of “The Sound Of Music Sing-A-Long”for the 55th anniversary of the Rodgers & Hammerstein classic film.

In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, the festival will feature the Pixar Animation Studio film “Coco” on Wednesday, October 7 while Marvel Studios’ “Captain Marvel” will screen on Sunday, October 11 in celebration of International Day of the Girl. On Friday, October 9, guests can join Disney+ for a frightfully fun Halloween-themed night featuring “Hocus Pocus” and more spooky surprises in store. Each night will get started with a classic animated short, fan-favorite episodes of “The Simpsons” or sneak peek trailers from Disney+ Originals on the big screen.

Capacity is extremely limited and reservations will be required to attend. Beginning Monday, September 28 at 10 a.m. PT, fans can register for complimentary tickets at www.disneyplus.com/drive-in. One registration is required for each vehicle, with a maximum of four guests per vehicle. Event capacity is extremely limited and reservations will be required.

Disney+ Drive-In Festival 2020 Schedule

Monday, October 5 – “The Right Stuff” – World Premiere Screening (Invite Only)

Tuesday, October 6 – “Tangled” 10th Anniversary Screening
(Open to the public. Register beginning September 28)

Wednesday, October 7 – “Coco” Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month
(Open to the public. Register beginning September 28)

Thursday, October 8 – “Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back” 40th Anniversary Screening
(Open to the public. Register beginning September 28)

Friday, October 9 – “Hocus Pocus” Disney+ Halloween Night
(Open to the public. Register beginning September 28)

Saturday, October 10 – “The Sound of Music Sing-A-Long” 55th Anniversary Screening
(Open to the public. Register beginning September 28)

Sunday, October 11 – “Captain Marvel” Celebrating International Day of the Girl
(Open to the public. Register beginning September 28)

Monday, October 12 – “Clouds” – World Premiere Screening (Invite Only)

In compliance with State and County requirements, the Disney+ Drive-In Festival will follow safety guidelines to protect all guests and staff:

Guests must remain in their vehicles for the duration of the program.
No sitting outside of the vehicle will be allowed.
Congregating of any type is prohibited.
Social distancing of at least 6 feet will be enforced at all times.
Face coverings must be worn when interacting with attendants, and when exiting vehicles to visit the restrooms.

LEGOLAND CA Opens Miniland for Halloween!

Robbie Bulus

September 24, 2020

Fall is a time for costumes, treats and family fun, and even though LEGOLAND California is still awaiting approval to open, the Resort is joining in the festivities with an outdoor experience: Halloween in Miniland! Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday during October (Oct. 2-4, 9-11, 16-18, 23-25, 30 & 31) the Park’s Miniland U.S.A becomes a not-so-spooky Halloween destination filled with activities, tasty treats and one of a kind LEGO Halloween decor inviting families to wear their favorite costumes and have safe fun.

Halloween in Miniland is a special outdoor experience and admission can be purchased online for as low as $12.99. Guests are required to purchase tickets online in advance to reserve access to Miniland for their desired dates and time to visit.

Halloween in Miniland features character meet and greets, virtual costume contests, a Miniland scavenger hunt, LEGO building activities, and, of course, a goody bag filled with candy and a LEGO surprise!

In addition, LEGOLAND Hotel and LEGOLAND Castle Hotel will also join in on the Halloween fun with festive decor throughout the fall season! Guests visiting SEA LIFE aquarium will be treated to special Halloween decorations and LEGO models that will be on display underwater in the aquarium’s tanks.

Families can enjoy savory food options at Smoke House BBQ and NINJA Kitchen and satisfy sweet cravings with LEGOLAND California’s world-famous Granny’s Apple Fries. The treats don’t stop there as families can also take a stroll through The Big Shop to find the latest must-have LEGO sets.

As guests and employees’ health and safety remain the top priority at LEGOLAND California Resort, guests will experience some differences in Miniland including reduced capacity, cashless payments, social distancing practices and enhanced cleaning regimes.

Face coverings (PPE) will be required for all guests three years old and up as well as for staff members. Guests are highly encouraged to visit the Resort’s website for further guest experience and visiting details. For more information, and to purchase tickets to Halloween at Miniland or SEA LIFE aquarium, visit www.legoland.com/california.

SeaWorld’s Spooktacular is Back and Kids Free in October!

Socalthrills Staff

September 24, 2020

Guests looking for Halloween fun this year can head to SeaWorld’s Spooktacular—featuring physically distanced Halloween dance parties, ALL-NEW Cookie Decorating with Cookie Monster and Elmo, fall flavor-inspired menu items and yes, CANDY! Spooktacular kicks off October 2 and continues Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays through November 1. In addition to enhancing the park’s already strict health and safety measures, capacity will be significantly limited to create even more open space for guests to enjoy 40 acres of the park’s expansive property. Tickets for Spooktacular are on sale now with the ultimate treat: SeaWorld is offering one child, aged 3 to 9, FREE admission with one full-paid adult admission through November 1! Annual Pass Members and Fun Card holders also receive FREE admission to Spooktacular and must make a reservation to visit the park. Guests are encouraged to purchase their date-specific tickets and make reservations soon because space is limited.

SeaWorld’s spacious outdoor environment on beautiful Mission Bay provides the perfect backdrop for safe Halloween fun. Seasonal celebrations with physical distancing measures will be spread out throughout the park during Spooktacular, including an outdoor Monster Mash DJ Dance Party, the return of the popular Pumpkin Scavenger Hunt, and an ALL-NEWupgrade experience, Cookie Decorating with Cookie Monster and Elmo. For even more fun, families can safely dance and celebrate together at the ALL-NEW Sesame Street Halloween Dance Party and capture photos with their furry friends dressed in festive Halloween costumes on colorful parade floats. And of course, it wouldn’t be Halloween without candy…kids can follow the colorful Spooktacular Trail to the Candy Garden where sweet treats await and will be delivered through a candy chute – an ALL-NEW safe and fun trick-or-treating experience.

SeaWorld’s Shark Encounter becomes even spookier during Spooktacular with dozens of jack-o-lanterns placed throughout the exhibit for kids to spot. Guests can also visit all of their favorite animal viewing areas including penguins, otters, dolphins, orcas, and sea lions and attend the world-famous Dolphin, Sea Lion and Orca Encounter live educational presentations with physically distant seating. Finally, a new fall-inspired menu will tempt everyone’s sweet tooth with candy-corn cotton candy, pumpkin cheesecake, and other culinary treats. Adults have the opportunity to enjoy a fresh pumpkin ale, glass of wine or one of SeaWorld’s all new seasonal specialty cocktails.

Reservations for SeaWorld Spooktacular are required, must be made in advance, and are very limited in order to manage capacity. For a limited time, guests can save up to $20 by purchasing advance date-specific tickets for as low as $73.99 for adults (10 and older) and $63.99 for children (ages 3 to 9). Children under 3 are free.

For even more incredible value, the park is offering a Spooktacular Dine & Drink bundle good for admission, plus dishes from our new chef-curated menu and alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. For only $93.99 adults (10 and older) will get admission to the park PLUS a choice of six food items and/or alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages. For only $78.99 children (3 to 9) will get admission to the park PLUS a choice of four food items and/or non-alcoholic beverages.

Guests taking advantage of the Kids Free offer through November 1 will get one FREE child ticket (for children ages 3 to 9) with the purchase of one full-price adult ticket.

Annual Pass Members and Fun Card Holders get free admission to Spooktacular and other seasonal events like SeaWorld’s fan-favorite Christmas Celebration coming back again in November. SeaWorld’s Annual Passes are available at the lowest price of the year for a limited time and start as low as $9 per month. The new “Best Benefits Ever” include unlimited admission for the rest of 2020 and all of 2021, FREE parking, up to 50 percent off in-park purchases, access to special rewards and Pass Members will be among the first to ride the park’s all-new Emperor, California’s tallest and fastest floorless dive coaster opening in 2021. Guests can also “pay for a day” and get a 2021 Fun Card good for unlimited admission* for the rest of 2020 for FREE and all of 2021 for the price of general admission.

For more information, park hours and to purchase tickets, visit SeaWorldSanDiego.com. All ticket purchases help to fund wildlife rescue and rehabilitation efforts, habitat protections, and ocean health initiatives.

Marvel Studios “WandaVision” Premiers it’s first Trailer

Russell Tom

September 20, 2020

Marvel Studios’ captivating new series “WandaVision,” which premieres in late 2020 on Disney+, just unveiled its first trailer on ABC’s broadcast of the 72^nd Primetime Emmy® Awards.

Starring Elizabeth Olsen and Paul Bettany, “WandaVision” marks the first series from Marvel Studios streaming exclusively on Disney+.

The series is a blend of classic television and the Marvel Cinematic Universe in which Wanda Maximoff and Vision—two super-powered beings living idealized suburban lives—begin to suspect that everything is not as it seems.

“WandaVision” is coming soon to Disney+.

SeaWorld San Diego Announces ‘Best Ever Benefits’ for Pass-holders

Robbie Bulus

September 18, 2020

SeaWorld San Diego is thrilled to announce all-new safe and fun Halloween and Christmas festivities this year as well as the launch of an updated Annual Pass Program that gives fans the opportunity to enjoy the park’s holiday thrills as much as they want in 2020. Plus, they can plan to come back again and again for all of 2021 and be among the first to ride the park’s all-new Emperor, California’s tallest and fastest floorless dive coaster.

Get your kids’ Halloween costumes ready for SeaWorld’s Spooktacular starting Friday, Oct 2. The fan-favorite will feature spooky surprises and fall fun for kids, like a pumpkin scavenger hunt, a candy trail that will lead to a safe and fun trick-or-treating experience, cookie decorating with some furry friends and a Spooktacular dance party.

Families will also enjoy all new fall flavor-inspired menu items, including caramel and chocolate dipped apples and caramel corn while adults can indulge in cocktails, seasonal beers and wine, all with enhanced safety measures and Halloween décor throughout the park. Pass Members will receive unlimited admission with no additional purchase required. Spooktacular will run Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through Nov. 1. Online reservations will be required and available soon.

The park’s annual Christmas Celebration will launch in November and include some of the park’s most cherished yuletide traditions. Admission to Spooktacular and Christmas Celebration are both included with an Annual Pass. SeaWorld Annual Passes are available at the lowest price of the year for a limited time and starting as low as $9 per month. The new “Best Benefits Ever” also include FREE parking, up to 50 percent off in-park purchases, access to special rewards and much more. Advance reservations are required to help manage capacity.

“We are so excited about today’s announcements. As a parent and grandparent, I know how important it is to have activities planned for kids around the holidays that are both fun and safe,” said Marilyn Hannes, park president of SeaWorld San Diego. “With our new Annual Pass options, families can enjoy Halloween and Christmas festivities in a physically-distanced, outdoor environment as many times as they’d like in 2020, and return to see us again in 2021 as we get ready to launch our most thrilling coaster yet, Emperor, in the spring.”

SeaWorld San Diego Pass Membership Benefits

Unlimited free admission for the rest of 2020, including Spooktacular and Christmas festivities
Unlimited admission, without block-out dates, for all of 2021
FREE parking ($25 savings)
First to ride Emperor in 2021, California’s tallest and fastest floorless dive coaster
Up to 50 percent off in-park purchases
Access to exclusive Pass Members rewards and offers
For a limited time, Passes are available at the lowest price of the year for as low as $9 per month
Free admission for Pass Members and Fun Card holders to the final two weekends of Zoo Days: Bayside BBQ & Brews (Sept. 18–20 and Sept. 25–27) with the advance purchase of a $30 food and beverage lanyard

For a full overview of Annual Pass options, visit: https://seaworld.com/san-diego/annual-pass/

Reservations for SeaWorld must be made in advance online and are limited to manage capacity. For more information, park hours and to purchase tickets, visit SeaWorldSanDiego.com. All ticket purchases help to fund wildlife rescue and rehabilitation efforts, habitat protections, and ocean health initiatives. Follow SeaWorld San Diego on Facebook and Instagram for the latest park updates and information.

SeaWorld Health and safety

In compliance with state safety guidelines for zoos, SeaWorld, a licensed, permitted and accredited zoo, is operating with enhanced health and safety protocols for cleaning and sanitizing, physical distancing, face covering requirements, and temperature screenings. SeaWorld San Diego is committed to the health and safety of our guests, employees, and the animals in our care. The park has worked diligently with state and local health officials, outside consultants and attraction industry leaders to enhance our already strict health, safety and cleanliness standards.

These protocols and guidelines will be modified based on evolving industry standards and methodologies, public health, and governmental directives, and advancing scientific knowledge on the transmissibility of COVID-19. SeaWorld San Orlando is excited to continue to provide our guests with fun, inspiring and memorable experiences, while addressing important health and safety needs during this time. For detailed information about the measures that guests can expect when visiting the resort, including key operational changes, visit https://seaworld.com/san-diego/park-info/park-safety/faq/

Food, Wine and Luxurious Villas at South Coast Winery Resort & Spa

Greg Aragon, Writer Greg's Getaway

September 18, 2020

I’ve stayed in lots of luxurious and unique hotel rooms around Southern California, but I’ve never stayed in one that sits among lush vineyards. That is until this past weekend when I experienced South Coast Winery Resort & Spa.

Situated on 63 lush acres in Temecula’s burgeoning wine country, South Coast Winery Resort & Spa is a relaxing and idyllic destination for wine lovers and those who just want a relaxing getaway. The property boasts award-winning wine tasting, a gourmet restaurant, full-service spa (currently closed), a large pool area with cabanas, and a hotel with villas located in the vineyards.

My getaway to the resort began recently when a friend and I checked into a spacious, 575 square-foot villa suite, with stunning mountain views and a patio set among the grapes. The room also features a luxurious king bed, a living room with fireplace, dining area with microwave, refrigerator, kitchen sink and dining table, and a marble and granite bathroom with oversized Jacuzzi tub and walk-in shower.

After checking in to the villa, we decided to sample some of the winery’s most popular varietals. The front desk sent a golf cart to pick us up at our room and take us to the tasting area, where we sat outside on a large outdoor patio and sampled a flight of red wines. The smooth, fruity and earthy journey of wines included award-winning Grenache, Tempranillo, petit verdot and merlot.

From the tasting we took a stroll around the rolling estate. Founded by Jim Carter, the winery opened in 2003, followed by the restaurant and resort in 2006, and then the spa in 2007.

About South Coast Winery Resort & Spa

Today, South Coast Winery Resort and Spa has garnered more than 5,000 awards and medals for the grapes it’s grown and wine it’s produced. In 2016, it broke records with its fourth win in the California State Winery of the Year Wine Competition.

“I wanted to share the complete wine country experience,” says Jim Carter. “Guests not only enjoy the finest wines paired with the finest foods, but they stay in a private villa right in the middle of a vineyard. We are Temecula Valley’s only full-service winery-resort that gives them a glimpse of our lifestyle in one of the most beautiful places in Southern California.”

The winery produces 45 wine labels, the majority of which are available for sampling. This includes robust reds such as tempranillo, cabernet sauvignon, grenache, petit syrah, merlot and pinot noir, to whites including sauvignon blanc, viognier, pinot grigio, chardonnay and riesling. Also available are sparkling wines, desert wines and other specialty offerings.

While walking around the vineyards and dirt walking paths lining the resort, we spotted numerous bunny rabbits, old wind mills, hot air balloons, and a romantic, pumpkin-shaped horse carriage being pulled by two Clydesdale horses. The resort is currently offering packages that include an overnight stay, wine and either a ride in a hot air balloon or a horse carriage.

After touring the property we headed back to our villa and relaxed on the patio, with a bottle of South Coast Boulder Red 2.0. A bit Southern France and a tad Southern California, this wine features a balanced and clean taste, with the right amount of silky tannins.

For dinner we strolled over to the resort’s signature restaurant, The Vineyard Rose. Housed in an elegant, Tuscan-inspired dining room with open beams and a relaxing wine bar and terrace, The Vineyard Rose Restaurant serves contemporary California cuisine sourced from the season’s freshest, locally-grown ingredients. Because of the current California regulations, indoor seating is unavailable, but the restaurant boasts beautiful outdoor dining on its front patio or back veranda.

Our dinner at The Vineyard Rose began with a tasty shrimp cocktail and a glass of South Coast pinot grigio. For the main course I devoured seared day boat scallops with cauliflower, pork belly, asparagus tips and pea tendrils. My friend enjoyed grilled filet mignon with potatoes, wild mushrooms, asparagus and red wine reduction.

In the morning we stepped into summer paradise at the resort’s grand pool area, where we rented a cabana for the day. The large tent cabana provided shade from the sun and featured comfortable lounge chairs and a couch, and service from the poolside café. To meet current safety requirements, the pool is currently open by reservation only.

I concluded the evening with a glass of wine and a bubble bath in my villa’s giant Jacuzzi tub.

South Coast Winery Resort and Spa is located at 34843 Rancho California Road, Temecula, CA 92591. For more information on staying at the resort and current specials, including the Horse & Carriage Package or the Hot Air Balloon Package, call 951.587. 9463 or visit: www.southcoastwinery.com

Full Episode of ‘black-ish’ will be Animated for the First Time

Socalthrills Staff

September 16, 2020

The Johnsons and “black-ish” return to ABC with a special one-hour television special on SUNDAY, OCT. 4 (10:00-11:00 p.m. EDT), on ABC. The two back-to-back episodes, which will air ahead of the official season seven premiere, will follow the Johnsons as they navigate the upcoming election, with Junior (Marcus Scribner) embarking on his journey as a first-time voter and Dre (Anthony Anderson) launching an exploration into local politics.

The special will be presented in part as an animated episode. Oscar® winner Matthew A. Cherry (“Hair Love”) is set to direct. An official premiere date for the highly anticipated seventh season will be announced shortly

In “Election Special Pt. 1,” (10:00-10:30 p.m. EDT), Junior is excited for his first time voting but discovers he has been purged from the voter polls so he does a deep dive into why – trying to understand the systems in place for voter registration. “Election Special Pt. 1” is directed by Matthew A. Cherry and written by Eric Horsted.

Then, in a special animated episode, “Election Special Pt. 2,” (10:30-11:00 p.m. EDT), Dre’s colleague Stevens (Peter Mackenzie) makes an ill-advised decision to run for Congress, so Dre enlists his family’s help and campaigns against him but gets caught up with fundraising and private interest groups. “Election Special Pt. 2” is directed by Matthew A. Cherry and written by Graham Towers & Ben Deeb.

In its upcoming seventh season, “black-ish” will continue to tell stories that shine a light on current events through the lens of the Johnson family, addressing the global pandemic, systemic racism and the movement for social justice and equality.

The series stars Anthony Anderson as Andre “Dre” Johnson, Tracee Ellis Ross as Rainbow Johnson, Yara Shahidi as Zoey Johnson, Marcus Scribner as Andre Johnson Jr., Miles Brown as Jack Johnson, Marsai Martin as Diane Johnson, Laurence Fishburne as Pops, Jenifer Lewis as Ruby, Peter Mackenzie as Mr. Stevens, Deon Cole as Charlie Telphy and Jeff Meacham as Josh.

ABC’s “black-ish” was created by Kenya Barris and is executive produced by Barris, Courtney Lilly, Laura Gutin Peterson, Anthony Anderson, Laurence Fishburne, Helen Sugland, E. Brian Dobbins and Michael Petok.

“The Mandalorian” Season 2 Trailer Debut!

Robbie Bulus

September 15, 2020

Disney+ has shared the new trailer, key art and new images from the highly anticipated second season of Lucasfilm’s critically acclaimed series, “The Mandalorian.”

The Mandalorian and the Child continue their journey, facing enemies and rallying allies as they make their way through a dangerous galaxy in the tumultuous era after the collapse of the Galactic Empire.

“The Mandalorian” stars Pedro Pascal, Gina Carano, Carl Weathers and Giancarlo Esposito. Directors for the new season include Jon Favreau, Dave Filoni, Bryce Dallas Howard, Rick Famuyiwa, Carl Weathers, Peyton Reed and Robert Rodriguez.

Showrunner Jon Favreau serves as executive producer along with Dave Filoni, Kathleen Kennedy and Colin Wilson, with Karen Gilchrist serving as co-executive producer.

The new season premieres Friday, October 30, streaming only on Disney+.

“The Mandalorian” New Pics

The Wonderful World of Mickey Mouse coming to Disney+

Robbie Bulus

September 14, 2020

Mickey Mouse and friends are heading to Disney+ in the all new-animated shorts series, “The Wonderful World of Mickey Mouse.” From the team behind Disney Channel’s Emmy Award-winning “Mickey Mouse” cartoon shorts, the new Disney+ original series will debut on Mickey’s birthday, Wednesday, November 18, with two new shorts rolling out every Friday beginning November 27. Ten shorts will premiere this year, with 10 additional shorts set for Summer 2021.

In “The Wonderful World of Mickey Mouse,” it’s nothing but fun and excitement for Mickey and his best pals – Minnie, Donald, Daisy, Goofy and Pluto – as they embark on their greatest adventures yet, navigating the curveballs of a wild and zany world where the magic of Disney makes the impossible possible.

The Wonderful World of Mickey Mouse

Each seven-minute short is filled with laugh-out-loud comedy, modern settings, timeless stories, new music and the unmistakable classic art style of the “Mickey Mouse” shorts. The series will include stories inspired by various lands at Disney parks and cameos by classic Disney heritage characters.

Marked by a contemporary art style that harkens back to Mickey’s 1928 beginnings, the “Mickey Mouse” cartoon shorts premiered on Disney Channel in 2013 and ran for five seasons, consisting of a total of 96 episodes, and garnered seven Primetime Emmy Awards, two Daytime Emmy Awards and 21 Annie Awards.

The shorts inspired a global line of consumer products, toys and clothing as well as the new attraction, Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, the first ride-through attraction in Disney history starring Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, now open at Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. All five seasons of the shorts are currently available to stream on Disney+.

“The Wonderful World of Mickey Mouse” is produced by Disney Television Animation with Emmy Award-winning artist and director Paul Rudish serving as executive producer and supervising director. Christopher Willis, the Emmy Award-winning composer of the “Mickey Mouse” shorts, also provides the music for this series.

New Knott’s Taste of Fall-O-Ween Full Food List

Socalthrills Staff

September 10, 2020

Knott’s Taste of Fall-O-Ween will take place Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, September 25 -November 1. The only way to experience the limited time Knott’s Taste of Fall-O-Ween is with a tasting card purchased in advance at knotts.com (a tasting card is required for event entry).

Event hours will be Fridays and Saturdays from 12pm -9pm and Sundays from 12pm to 8pm. Regular tasting cards (ages 12+) are priced at $35 (plus tax) and will include five food tastings and Junior tasting cards (ages 3-11) are $20 (plus tax) and include three tastings plus a trip through the Camp Snoopy Trick-or-Treat Trail.

Tasting cards are date specific and must be purchased online at knotts.com or through the Knott’s Berry Farm mobile app prior to the date of visit. Knott’s Taste of Fall-O-Ween hotel packages are also available at Knotts.com. In order to manage proper physical distancing of guests, Knott’s Taste of Fall-O-Ween tasting cards will be limited each day and may sell out.

Food items listed are from Booth locations and tasting card items

A. Wagon Wheel Pizza
• Butternut Squash Soup in a Bread Bowl with Chives
• Perilous Pizza-Pizza slice with Buffalo Chicken, Jalapeno’s, Ranch and Mozzarella
Cheese
• Cauliflower Pizza Slice with a Vegan Cheese and Bell Peppers
• Boysenberry Smoothie-GF, V

B. Spurs Booth- Slaughterhouse booth
• Asian Chicken Drumsticks

C. Pemmican Pickle
• MAD Shirley Temple, Grenadine, Sprite and a Cherry

D. Calico Fry Co.
• Pastrami Tater Tots, Hot Pastrami, Diced Garlic Pickles, Mornay Cheese Sauce over Tater Tots, served with Boysenberry Mustard
• Battered Buffalo Cauliflower Florets, Deep Fried Cauliflower BITES tossed in our House Buffalo Sauce over Spring Mix and Cotija Cheese

E. Sutter’s Grill
• Open Face Reuben Sandwich, Hot Pastrami on a Thick Rye Bread with Swiss Cheese, Sauerkraut and Russian Dressing
• Pastrami Tater Tots, Hot Pastrami, Diced Garlic Pickles, Mornay Cheese Sauce over Tater Tots, served with Boysenberry Mustard
• Battered Buffalo Cauliflower Florets, Deep fried Cauliflower BITES tossed in our House Buffalo Sauce over Spring Mix and Cotija Cheese

F. Sutter’s Funnel Cake
• Graveyard Funnel, Chocolate and Vanilla Funnel Cake with Oreo Dirt Crumbles, Chocolate Ice Cream, a Chocolate Drizzle and Worms
• The Great Pumpkin Bun, Deep Fried Cinnamon Roll with a Pumpkin Icing and sprinkles
• Caramel Apple Cheesecake Trifle

G. Ghost Town Grub
• Graveyard Funnel, Chocolate and Vanilla Funnel Cake with Oreo Dirt Crumbles, Chocolate Ice Cream, a Chocolate Drizzle and Worms
• The Great Pumpkin Bun, Deep Fried Cinnamon Roll with a Pumpkin Icing and sprinkles
• Caramel Apple Cheesecake Trifle

H. Fireman’s BBQ- Endgame Booth
• Spicy Sausage with a Bacon Onion Jam on a Hoagie Roll
• Corn on the Cob with a Spicy Hot Taki Mayo
• MAD Shirley Temple-GF, V

I. Wilderness Broiler- Paranormal Booth
• Headless Meatball Sandwich, a Large Beef and Pork Meatball on a Hawaiian bun
with Provolone Cheese in a Marinara Sauce with a Side of Sweet Potato Chips
• Vegetarian Meatball Sandwich, Plant Based Meatballs in a Marinara Sauce with
Vegan Mozzarella Cheese and a side of Sweet Potato Chips
• Sweet Potato Waffle Chips with a Curry Mayo Dip -GF, V
• Blood Orange Lemonade-GF, V

J. Wilderness Dance Hall Patio
• Cheeseburger Mac and Cheese with Bacon and a Panko Crumb Topping
• Sausage and Chicken Jambalaya with Diced Green Onions
• Assorted Boysenberry Beer-V
• Boysenberry Wine-GF, V
• Glass of Red or White Wine- GF, V
• Boysenberry Sangria –GF, V
• Seasonal Cider-GF, V

K. Gourmet Churro Factory
• Pumpkin Spice Churro Sticks with a Candy Corn Sugar and Bavarian Cream Dip
• “I See U” Sour Apple Cream Puff

L. Chowhouse Ice Cream
• Orange Sugar and Chocolate Fudge Cookiewich with Pumpkin Soft Serve Ice Cream
• Orange Creamsicle Icee Float-Orange Cream Icee with Vanilla Soft Serve Ice Cream
• Blood Orange Lemonade-GF, V

M. Calico Saloon
• Assorted Boysenberry Beer-V
• Boysenberry Wine-GF, V
• Glass of Red or White Wine-GV, V
• Boysenberry Sangria –GF, V
• Pumpkin Cider-GF, V
• Boysenberry Smoothie-GF, V

N. Judge Roy Bean
• Shrimp and Vegetable Curry bowl over Rice with Cilantro
• Assorted Boysenberry Beer-V
• Boysenberry Wine-GF, V
• Glass of Red or White Wine-GV, V
• Boysenberry Sangria –GF, V
• Pumpkin Cider-GF, V

O. Gourmet Coffee Hut-Voodoo Booth
• Acai Bowl with Pumpkin Granola, Banana’s, Berries and Almond Butter
• Boysenberry Smoothie-GF, V

P. Charleston Circle Booth-Infected booth
• Cheeseburger Mac and Cheese with Bacon and a Panko Crumb Topping
• Sausage and Chicken Jambalaya

Q. BoardwalkPierBooth-PumpkinEaterBooth
• Spicy Sausage with a Bacon Onion Jam on a Hoagie Bun
• Corn on the Cob with a Spicy Hot Taki Mayo

R. Coasters Diner
• Creepy Cheesy Burger Slider with Onion Rings, and a Knotty Sauce with some Fries
• Diablo Fries- French Fries, Chili, Shredded Cheese, Hot Cheeto Powder, Crispy Jalapeno Strips
• Vegetarian Slider with Cheese, Tomato and a Green Spinach Aioli on a Pretzel Bun
• Beeting Hearts Salad-Mixed Greens, Artichoke Hearts, Roasted Red Beets, Butternut Squash and Toasted Pepita’s with a Raspberry Vinaigrette
• Blood orange Lemonade-GF, V
• Assorted Boysenberry Beer-V
• Glass of Red or White Wine- GF, V
• Frozen Bloody Lemon Slime Margarita-GF, V

S. Boardwalk BBQ Booth #1
• Grim Reaper Sandwich-Prime Rib Sandwich, Shredded Cheese on A Hoagie Bun with a Horseradish Sauce-GF
• Burnt Ends Riblets on Garlic Mashers

T. Boardwalk BBQ Booth #2
• Assorted Boysenberry Beer -V
• Glass of Red or White Wine-GF, V
• Boysenberry Sangria-GF,V
• Pumpkin Cider-GF, V

U. Log Ride Funnel Cake
• Graveyard Funnel, Chocolate and Vanilla Funnel Cake with Oreo Dirt Crumbles, Chocolate Ice Cream, a Chocolate Drizzle and Worms
• The Great Pumpkin Bun, Deep Fried Cinnamon Roll with a Pumpkin Icing and sprinkles
• Caramel Apple Cheesecake Trifle

V. Log Ride Mix It Up
• Orange Creamsicle Icee Float-Orange Cream Icee with Vanilla Soft Serve Ice Cream

W. Strictly On-A-Stick
• Hot Cheeto corn dog with Nacho Cheese Dip

X. Dippin’ Dots
• Orange Sugar and Chocolate Fudge Cookiewich with Pumpkin Hand Scooped Ice Cream
• Hocus Pocus Float, Fanta with Peach Sherbet

Y. La Papa Loca
• Diablo Fries-French Fries, Chili, Shredded Cheese, Hot Cheeto Powder, Crispy Jalapeno Strips
• Jalapeno Poppers with a Chipotle Ranch
• Sweet Nachos, Boysenberry Flour Tortilla Chips with Cinnamon Sugar and a
Boysenberry Jam Dipping Sauce

Z. Fiesta Dogs
• Devil Dog, All beef Dog with Hot Peppers
• Chili Colorado Served with Mexican Rice, and a Flour Tortilla AA.Fiesta Booth – Tooth Fairy Booth
• Cookies and Scream Whoopie Pie
• Coniferous Cannoli with a Pumpkin Mascarpone filling and Pecans
• Full Moon Mint Julep-Blackberry, lemonade, mint, lychee fruit floating as garnish
• Buenaveza Salt and Lime Lager -V
• Michelada
BB. Cantina
• Green Monster Chicken Tamale with a Green Chili Verde Tamale, Red Jalapeno Sauce, Cotija Cheese
• Grilled Chicken Taco with a Corn Salsa and an Avocado Crema on a Corn Tortilla
• Frozen Bloody Lemon Slime Margarita-GF, V
• Buenavela Salt and Lime Lager -V
• Michelada-GF, V

For all details regarding Taste of Fall-O-Ween and the park’s current health and safety screenings, please visitknotts.com.

Full details here:

The New Knott’s Taste of Fall-O-Ween Starts September 25!

1...110111112...382 Page 111 of 382

-Advertisement-

Socalthrills.com

The “Simpsons Forever” Celebrates 300 hours on Disney+

“The Simpsons” Forever Faves of November 2020:

Sold-Out Knott’s Taste of Fall-O-Ween 2020 is Impressive

Disney+ Announces Outdoor Screening Series

Disney+ Drive-In Festival 2020 Schedule

LEGOLAND CA Opens Miniland for Halloween!

SeaWorld’s Spooktacular is Back and Kids Free in October!

Marvel Studios “WandaVision” Premiers it’s first Trailer

SeaWorld San Diego Announces ‘Best Ever Benefits’ for Pass-holders

SeaWorld Health and safety

Food, Wine and Luxurious Villas at South Coast Winery Resort & Spa

About South Coast Winery Resort & Spa

Full Episode of ‘black-ish’ will be Animated for the First Time

“The Mandalorian” Season 2 Trailer Debut!

“The Mandalorian” New Pics

The Wonderful World of Mickey Mouse coming to Disney+

The Wonderful World of Mickey Mouse

New Knott’s Taste of Fall-O-Ween Full Food List

Latest Posts

Disney Legend Martha Blanding to Address Cal State Fullerton’s Class of...

Lights, Camera, Summer Fun! Universal Mega Movie Summer Opens June 13

Disneyland Turnstiles Upgraded to New Entry Gates

Disney’s Snow White Comes to Digital May 13

Tickets for Disney’s “Lilo & Stitch” On Sale Now

Diego Luna from Disney+ Series Andor Makes Surprise Appearance