CHP, Holiday Travel and Last-Minute Christmas Shopping

Here is a look ahead to events and happenings in Mission Viejo and Orange County for Dec. 23-29.

1. In you’re flying out of John Wayne Airport during the holidays, arrive early. The period Dec. 20 to Jan. 3 is traditionally one of the airport’s busiest periods. Passengers are advised to arrive at least 90 minutes prior to departure.
   
2. If you’re planning to be on the freeways during the holiday, be careful. The CHP plans maximum enforcement from 6 p.m. on Christmas Eve to midnight on Christmas Day. Officers will be on heightened alert for drivers who speed, fail to buckle-up, or are driving under the influence.
   
3. The Mission Viejo Library will be closed Monday through Friday in observance of Christmas. On Saturday, the library will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
4. Thursday is the first day of the week-long Kwanzaa celebration, which honors African heritage in African-American culture. It was established in 1966 by activist and scholar Maulana Karenga, who is currently chair of the Africana Studies department at Cal State University Long Beach.
   
5. Tuesday is the last day for Christmas shopping, and many national chains plan to stay open late on Christmas Eve. Toys R Us stores will be open round-the-clock until 9 p.m. on Christmas Eve, and most Walmart stores will be open until 8 p.m.