Like the people who throw them, birthday parties have evolved. Grandma might point out that she managed just fine without puppies and ponies, but that doesn't mean we have to. The truth is that a good party entertainer can make a budget party in the backyard or local park feel like the event of the season. If you're that mom who's never at a loss to entertain a dozen 8-year-olds, our hats are off to you (and please contact us about writing a party piece!); for everyone else, here are 20+ party entertainment companies who bring the party to your house, and we think they really take the (birthday) cake!

Every city has something uniquely its own, some quirky event or phenomenon that defies description yet defines by association. Houston has its rodeo; Boston has its tea party, and Laguna Beach has the Pageant of the Masters. 

If you've never experienced this curious gem, the private treasure of the people of Laguna, opportunity awaits you every night all summer long. But get ready to clean your glasses, because you won't always be sure what you're looking at. The extraordinary event is unlike anything else I've seen; it may not be everyone's cup of tea, but if you're raising a budding artist, if your family rocks art museums, or if you just love outdoor entertainment on a summer evening, you owe it to yourselves to check the Pageant of the Masters off this summer's bucket list.

SoCal has no shortage of beaches, including plenty of classic, family-friendly beaches right here in Los Angeles. The only problem is all those other people who seem to know about them, too. As locals, we deserve a few beaches that only we know about, where we can enjoy the Pacific Ocean in our backyard without running into all the tourists who are just as happy at Santa Monica Pier anyway. Read on to discover the beautiful hidden beaches that even some Angelenos have never visited.