Events to kick the new year off right

-- Noaki Schwartz

NEWPORT MESA -- While most people had their New Year’s Eve festivities

planned, the first day of 2000 was an afterthought for many. Still, there

are a number of activities to kick off the new year, other than simply

recovering from having a little too much fun or just sitting back and

watching college football.

THE ROSE PARADE

For traditionalists, there is always Pasadena’s Tournament of Roses

Parade. This year, Newport Beach-based Ruby’s Restaurant has entered

Orange County’s only float. It depicts a Cosmic Malt Shop with two

teenage aliens and their robotic dog, Willy.

MOVIES

For those who want to take it easy, movies are always a great option. And

starting on Jan. 1, Edwards Imax Theater in Irvine is featuring

“Fantasia.” A new version of the classic Disney animation, it features

seven new sequences in addition to “The Sorcerer’s Apprentice.”

THEATER

The Theatre District features Jim Geoghan’s comic play “Light Sensitive”

at 8 p.m. tonight. Tickets are $15 to $20. The Theatre District is at

2930 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, in the back lot of The Lab Anti-Mall. For

more information call (714) 435-4043.

SEASIDE EVENTS

Davey’s Locker is featuring whale watching trips at 9 a.m., 12 p.m. and

12:30 p.m. It’s at 400 Main St., Balboa. For more information call (949)

673-1434.

SHOPPING

A number of the department stores at South Coast Plaza and Fashion Island

will be open Jan. 1, and are having some great sales.

Macy’s is having a “Last Sale of the Century.” Many items, such as

sheets, sweaters, pajamas and watches, are on sale for $19.99. Other

departments are featuring anything from 25% to 50% off.

Robinsons May and Bloomingdales are also having sales of anywhere from

33% to 50% off.

GARDEN

Start the year by planting new life into your garden. Armstrong Garden

centers will also be open and feature a sale on some of their roses as

well as 75% off their Christmas items.