Firebird Ballet, BBQ Secrets and Migrating Bird Watch

Here is a look ahead to events and happenings in Mission Viejo and Orange County for Monday, Oct. 7. 

1. Buster Balloon's Halloween Spooktacular Family Fun Night is being hosted in Laguna Niguel Friday at 7 p.m. Friday. A spooky, 45-min. comedy with balloon creations costs $5 at the door. The event happens at Crown Valley Community Park, 29751 Crown Valley Pkwy.
   
2. The Firebird ballet will be held Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. at the Irvine Barclay Theater, 4242 Campus Dr. Scored by Igor Stravinsky, this Russian folk tale tells about a magical, glowing bird and a prince who enters an evil and magical world. Tickets are $40 for adults, $37 for seniors and $30 for children. Info: (949) 854-4646.
3. Master the BBQ—Crossline Community Church, 26301 Via Escolar, hosts a backyard grilling class Saturday at 8 a.m. Learn the difference between grills and smokers, and how to use injections, dry rubs, marinades and more. Info: (949) 916-0250.
4. Want to see what new birds are migrating in the fall to South Orange County? The Irvine Ranch Conservancy invites anyone interested to the Orchard Hills Trailhead for a free three-hour bird watch on Friday starting at 8 a.m. Register here.