Events happening Saturday

EVENTS

Star Wars: Where Science Meets Imagination According to the “Star Wars” films, technologies such as intelligent androids and nimble starfighters existed a long time ago in a galaxy far, far away. The new exhibition “Star Wars: Where Science Meets Imagination” explores whether such creations could (once again?) become a reality based on modern science. Discovery Science Center, 2500 N. Main St., Santa Ana. 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Thu., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Fri. and Sat., and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun. Through April 15. $25. (714) 542-2823. https://www.discoverycube.org

Downtown on Ice Los Angeles’ answer to the ice rink at New York’s Rockefeller Center offers frosty holiday fun even on balmy evenings. Framed by skyscrapers and twinkling lights, the outdoor rink is a festive environment for skating, special exhibitions, concerts, games and more. Pershing Square, 532 S. Olive St., L.A. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Thu. 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Fri.-Sun. Skating session, $6; skate rental, $2. (213) 847-4970. https://www.laparks.org/pershingsquare

Los Angeles Auto Show Go car crazy at one of the premier automotive events around. The 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show will feature more than 50 debuts from all over the world — among them the Chevrolet Spark and the Audi R8 GT Spyder — as well as concept cars such as the i3 and i8 from BMW, the Cadillac Ciel and the Jaguar C-X16. Additionally, more than 70 new green vehicles will be on display, including electric, hybrid, hydrogen fuel cell and natural gas models. To cover all other bases, there will be a Kids’ Fun Zone and huge aftermarket accessories hall. Los Angeles Convention Center, 1201 S. Figueroa St., L.A. Sat.-Nov. 27. Open every day, including Thanksgiving. See https://www.laautoshow.com for hours. $12. (213) 741-1151, Ext. 3.

Christmas Company Holiday shoppers can get a little head start while contributing to a good cause at the Christmas Company shopping festival, which raises funds for the Junior League of Orange County. Visitors will find more than 90 vendors from across the country as well as a host of events, including an opening night gala; a PJs & Pancakes breakfast with Santa; and a cooking demonstration and book signing with O.C. chef Zov Karamardian. O.C. Fair & Events Center, 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa. Sat. to Sun. Hours vary. https://www.shoptcc.com.