Orange County Almanac

In Santa Ana, before shopping malls and tract homes, the place to shop was Main Street, which in the 1940s, ‘50s and ‘60s was lined with grand department stores and elegant shops.

One of the grandest stores was the Buffums on Main and 9th streets. The store featured an imposing rock facade framed by large palm trees. It was home to the famous Yorba Room restaurant, which was decorated in Early California style. On noon each Thursday, models wearing the latest fashions strutted around the restaurant.

That Buffums closed in 1987. The building is now occupied by the Orange County Department of Probation.

Today

This is the final day of the weeklong Newport Harbor Christmas Boat Parade. The 86th annual event, which runs from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., features about 200 decorated boats.

Viewing is available at many locations in the harbor, including restaurants. Grandstand seating is provided by the Newport Harbor Jaycees for a fee of $5 to $7. The fee includes shuttle transportation from the Newport Dunes Resort at 1131 Backbay Drive in Newport Beach.

Information: (714) 729-4400.