Neighborhood celebrates anniversary with sock hop

Halecrest residents are gathering for a weekend of chili, entertainment and community as the neighborhood commemorates its 50th anniversary.

The three-day celebration, presented by the Halecrest Hall of Fame Community Assn., kicks off today with a 1950s-themed sock hop, complete with ’50s-priced fare.

Saturday’s third annual chili cook-off will feature the culinary stylings of 18 contestants, as well as a classic car show and several local food and product vendors. From 2 to 5 p.m., the public is invited to Halecrest Park and Tennis Club, 3107 Killybrooke Lane in Costa Mesa, for the free gastronomic event, which includes children’s crafts and a golf cart raffle.

The festivities culminate Sunday with a picnic and “drive-in” movie at the club, also celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.

“Halecrest is unlike any other neighborhood,” said event organizer Jennifer Christ. “Everyone is like family and we are just very fortunate to be a part of something so wonderful.”

For more information, contact Christ at (714) 557-2606 or christj@clubhotel.com.

— Jessie Brunner