Thursday Essentials in Newport Beach: Freebies for Kids, Park Discounts and More

1. Don't forget! Kids 12 and under get in free today at the 2013 Orange County Fair. The OC Fair & Event Center is located at 88 Fair Dr. in Costa Mesa. For more information, visit ocfair.com or call 714-708-1500.

2. Newport Bay Conservancy August 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 – presents Tideland Tykes today from 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. Conservancy staff will host a parent and child experience that may include arts and crafts, storytelling, hands-on activities or outdoor nature walks. Tideland Tykes cost $5 per students, and parking is free.
Upper Newport Bay is located at 2301 University Dr. in Newport Beach. Call 949-923-2275, or email unbic@ocparks.com to register.

3. Do you have a special talent you would like to perform on stage? The OASIS Senior Center in Corona del Mar is seeking talented residents for its 3rd annual Oasis Talent Showcase. The event will take place on Wednesday, Aug. 21 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Oasis Event Center. For more information or if you would like to perform call Jennifer at 949-718-1826.

4. Beginning today, OC Parks chops 50 percent off the price of its 2013 parking passes for county parks and/or beaches. More details here.

5. Today will start off with some morning clouds, but will become mostly sunny. Highs near the coast will be around 71, inland areas will be in the low 80s.

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