Getting Into the Holiday Spirit : OC LIVE!

Family-oriented holiday shows, concerts and other events abound this week. Following are a few highlights; for a full roster, consult Day by Day listings beginning on F16.

* In his “Simple Gifts” concert, Philadelphia storyteller Ed Stivender, author of “Raised Catholic, Can You Tell?,” reads excerpts from his book along with other humorous and heartwarming holiday tales. Friday at 8 p.m. at La Sala Auditorium, San Juan Capistrano Regional Library, 31495 El Camino Real. $4-$7; reservations suggested. (714) 768-1916.

* Orange Coast College’s annual Old-Fashioned Christmas Show & Ice Cream Social features a “cheer the hero, boo the villain” melodrama, plus sing-alongs, variety acts, a visit from Santa and dessert. Today through Dec. 9 at OCC’s Drama Lab, 2801 Fairview Road, Costa Mesa. $5-$9. (714) 432-5880.

* Children ages 5 to 9 can spruce up the holiday tree by making Mexican- and Eastern European-style ornaments at a hands-on art workshop Saturday at 1:30 p.m. at the Fullerton Museum Center, 301 N. Pomona Ave., Fullerton. $5; reservations needed. Children must be accompanied by an adult. (714) 738-6545.

* Holidays of yore will be recalled Saturday through live entertainment, exhibits and crafts at the Heritage Hill Historic Park’s Victorian Christmas from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 25151 Serrano Road, Lake Forest. On Dec. 9 from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m., the park also hosts its annual Candlelight Tour with music, storytelling and caroling. $2-$3 for each event. (714) 855-2028.

* The Festival of the Trees, a fund-raiser for Hoag Hospital running Friday through Monday, features 60 professionally decorated holiday trees at South Coast Plaza’s Crystal Court, 3333 Bear St., Costa Mesa. There will also be live entertainment and craft stations on Saturday and Sunday. Display is free; activity fees, $2-$3. (714) 574-7208.