Recreation

If you've resolved to spend more time with family, shed those holiday pounds or simply get more active, head to the great Mission Viejo outdoors. With more than 50 parks, trails and vast open spaces, the options are almost endless here for exploring, exercising and simply enhancing your life.

In fact, we've got some of the best parks in Orange County. Take Pavion Park and La Paws Dog Park, for example.

Do you know the difference between a Mynock and Gundark or which docking bay the Millennium Falcon was kept on Mos Eisley?  Sport your favorite Star Wars-themed costume and head to the Mission Viejo Civic Center for a fun trivia event on January 27.

This free Star Wars Trivia program is from noon to 2 p.m. in the City Hall Saddleback Room, just across from the library at 200 Civic Center.

If you served our country any time from 1975 to the present day, we want YOU for the Wars of Freedom Veterans event in March.

This nostalgic day filled with music, gifts and patriotic moments begins at 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 24 at the Norman P. Murray Community and Senior Center.

The event includes a “Welcome Home Heroes” reception at 11 a.m. followed by a catered lunch, program and performance by the Marine Corps Band at 2 p.m.

Think you can handle Polar Bear Plunge? Then mark your calendar for the Sierra Snow Summit on Saturday, January 20.

The spa at the Sierra Recreation Center will be transformed into a mini winter wonderland as part of a family-friendly event from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Are you ready to roll the dice with some new friends? If so, make plans for the Middle School Teen Scene GIANT Game Night on January 12 at the Montanoso Recreation Center, 25800 Montanoso Drive.

For students in grades 6-8, this exciting evening is from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and features music, snacks and games like Jenga, Dominos, Connect 4, Uno and others.  Pizza and snacks sponsored by Tutor Doctor.

Mission Viejo Teen Scene events are open to teens regardless of school or city affiliation, so bring your friends for an enjoyable and memorable time.

Jump-start your New Year’s resolution by purchasing a 1-month “Holiday Pass” to the Montanoso and Sierra Recreation and Fitness Centers and Marguerite and Felipe Tennis Centers.

The pass – which makes the perfect holiday gift – is available for single, couple and family memberships through January 31.  It’s is a great way for students, individuals and family members to experience our recreation and tennis centers for the first time.

Congratulations to the winners of the City of Mission Viejo's 5th Annual Scarecrow Contest!

.  Most Humorous - " Mummy Mommy" by MOMS Club of Mission Viejo

.  Spookiest - "Serpent" by Mission Viejo Homeschoolers

.  Best Traditional - "Margaret" by Daughters of the American Revolution

.  People's Choice - "Best Buddies" by Trabuco Hills High School