Each week, Arts Orange County and Culture OC deliver you this look at the stories and events happening in our arts and cultural community.

Carols by Candlelight

Classic and contemporary holiday tunes come to life in a captivating setting in Newport Beach with Pacific Chorale's beloved annual concert MORE

The King's Singers Are Making a Holiday Stop at the Irvine Barclay

Ask anyone to name a male vocal group that’s been around for more than 50 years, has widely traveled and performed, and has dozens of recordings.

Most on this side of the pond would likely cite The Four Freshmen. But what about a counterpart from England?

That would be The King’s Singers, who are stopping off in Orange County on Friday night at the Irvine Barclay Theatre for a holiday-oriented concert titled “Christmas Time is Here.”

This marks the fifth time Barclay patrons have had a chance to see and hear the group.

Martin Benson: An Appreciation

Lawrence Christon literally wrote the book about the founding of South Coast Repertory and was a friend of Martin Benson for many years.

Lessons Learned While Dining on a Cruise Ship

Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or new to ocean transport, understanding a ship’s food service is a must to make the most of your time between ports. Below is my best advice for enjoying various meals on-board. And don’t wait for summertime or a special occasion to travel; simply pack according to your destination’s and weather forecast.

Vacation by cruise liner is something many people don’t experience. Five years ago I would’ve laughed if you told me I would spend my time off on a ship. Recently I returned from a 12-day voyage (plus two nights in London beforehand) on Princess Cruises. It was my fourth overseas adventure in five years and I am finally getting the hang of navigating a cruise’s culinary program.

Each week, we recommend a variety of events and experiences from the listings at SparkOC.com, our free website for Orange County's arts and cultural community.

Placentia Tamale Festival

Headlined by the Mariachi Divas, this family festival will feature the lighting of the Holiday Tree, a chance to meet Santa, and, befitting the name, the irreplaceable taste of homemade tamales MORE

Holiday Lights at Heritage Hill

OC Parks has added a festive touch to the historic site in Lake Forest, with twinkling light displays great for photo opportunities or just an appreciative stroll MORE

Sensory Friendly Snoopy Holiday House

On Monday the 16th, this installation at City Hall in Costa Mesa will modify its presentation to accommodate children who might be overstimulated in traditional festival environments - turning off flashing lights and music for greater comfort when meeting the beloved Peanuts beagle MORE

here/there: chúng tôi

This exhibit at the Black Umbrella Gallery in downtown Garden Grove, presented by the Vietnamese American Arts and Letters Association, explores the power acts of care can have to transform a community MORE