The magic of the holidays is upon us and filled with love, joy and peace! This wonderful season brings communities and people together in genuine appreciation of our many blessings, which is why I cherish this time of year so much.

It is my sincere hope and prayer that you are able enjoy this special time with family, friends and loved ones. To see a listing of holiday festivities near you, please visit the 'Out & About in South County' section of my newsletter below.

From our Fifth District family to yours, wishing you a safe and Happy Holiday Season!

Give yourself the gift of stress-free shopping, visiting, & holidaying. ‘Tis the season to let OC Flex drive. Relax and enjoy the holiday season with safe on-demand rides in one of our comfortable eight-person OC Flex vans. OC Flex is available in two geographic zones, including parts of Aliso Viejo, Laguna Niguel, Mission Viejo.

On New Year’s Eve, count on OC Flex to be your designated driver with service till 2 AM.

OC Flex is also the perfect choice for family get-togethers during winter break and for students home for the holidays. Passengers 13 and above can ride without adult accompaniment.

Thanks to some special savings, it’s a great time to ride OC Flex for less:

• First ride free - Download the OC Flex mobile app, enter coupon code FREERIDE, and receive a $4.50 credit in your account.
• Ride together and save - 50% off group rides with OC Flex mobile app. Groups must ride with the person who booked the trip. 2/$4.50, 3/$6.75, 4/$9
• Free rides with referrals - Refer a friend through the OC Flex mobile app. You both get a free ride!

Just a reminder – your fare includes unlimited rides all day within each OC Flex zone. Download the app today and enjoy the comfort and convenience of OC Flex. Find out more here.

To help Orange County residents celebrate safely, OCTA is once again offering free rides on fixed-route buses on New Year’s Eve between Tuesday, December 31 at 6 PM and Wednesday, January 1 at 2:30 AM.

More than 157,000 people have taken advantage of this special free bus service since it began 17 years ago. OC Bus is one the safest and most convenient ways to get around on New Year’s Eve or any other day of the year. 

OCTA’s handy trip planner makes it easy for new and experienced riders to determine times and routes. Find the trip planner here along with a map of popular Orange County holiday destinations.

On Christmas and New Year’s Day, OC Bus will operate on a Sunday/holiday schedule. Learn more here.

No need to stay up late New Year's Eve in Mission Viejo! Ring in the New Year with crafts, music and fun for the whole family December 31 from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM in the Saddleback Room at City Hall, For more information, click here.