Inside Irvine Winter 2024-25

INSIDE

WINTER 2024–25

Advancing Animal Care

OFFICIAL GUIDE TO CITY NEWS, PROGRAMS, ACTIVITIES & MORE

EXCLUSIVE IRVINE IS ONCE AGAIN NAMED THE BEST CITY TO LIVE IN

PLUS WINTER ACTIVITY GUIDE

cityofirvine.org

Inside this Issue

FEATURES

08 On the Forefront of Animal Care Irvine Animal Care Center

Visit yourirvine.org or call 949-724-6610 96 Register now and be part of the fun!

expansion and renovation project helps the City's animal and human communities thrive.

12 Advancing Efforts to Create the Gateway Preserve The City of Irvine continues to make progress establishing the Gateway Preserve, hundreds of acres of planned, accessible open space and residential housing in North Irvine.

10 Irvine is Simply the Best The City of Irvine was once again recognized as the best place to live in The Orange County Register ’s guide to the top destinations, businesses, and attractions.

Inside Irvine Editorial Managing Editor Melissa Haley Associate Editor Kristina Perrigoue Activity Guide Coordinator Carolyn Wongvitavas Contributors Heather Bartlett, Hillary Dunlap, Linda Fontes, Chris Gomez, Alyssa Jago, Tom Macduff, Jackie Miller, Hector Santin, Christina Stryffeler, Ursola Zaher Inside Irvine is published quarterly by the City of Irvine. Please address editorial correspondence to: Inside Irvine , c/o Communications & Engagement Department, City of Irvine, PO Box 19575, Irvine, CA 92623-9575 or via email at insideirvine@cityofirvine.org . For questions about the Activity Guide or advertising, call 949-724-7745 or email activityguide@cityofirvine.org . For City of Irvine hours of operation, visit cityofirvine.org . Incorporated in 1971, the City of Irvine operates under a charter law form of government. As such, the City Council makes policy decisions while the City Manager is appointed by the City Council to function as the chief executive of the City. To contact the City Council, please call 949-724-6233. Irvine City Council meetings are held the second and fourth Tuesday of each month in the City Council Chamber, located at 1 Civic Center Plaza, corner of Alton Parkway and Harvard Avenue. Regular sessions begin at 4p.m. with a possible recess prior to 5p.m. to discuss matters under Closed Session. Irvine City Council meetings are cablecast live on ICTV Channel 30 and are webstreamed live on cityofirvine.org/ictv . The programs presented in the Activity Guide section are provided through the City of Irvine’s Community Services Department. All contents are copyright 2024. Request permission in writing to reprint. Disclaimer Although Inside Irvine accepts information, the City of Irvine does not assume responsibility for errors, omissions, or misinformation in the advertisements, nor does the City recommend, endorse, or guarantee products or services provided by advertisers.

DEPARTMENTS & ACTIVITIES

01 Inside the

85 Arts 91 Pets

City Manager’s Office

02 City Priorities 06 Great Park Report 14 Going the Extra Mile 18 Events & Family Activities 23 Early Childhood 31 Children 45 Teens 52 Adults 59 Older Adults 66 Disability Services 69 Aquatics 77 Outdoors & Nature 78 Racket Sports

92 Great Park 96 Registration

97 Helpful Contacts 98 Map & Locations 100 Irvine Resources

Access IRVINE Reimagined with you in mind

Comments, questions, or suggestions? Email us at insideirvine@cityofirvine.org

Inside Irvine

Winter 2024–25

To view Inside Irvine online, please visit cityofirvine.org/insideirvine

Inside the City Manager’s Office

IRVINE CITY COUNCIL

Hello, Irvinites!

Mayor Farrah N. Khan

Vice Mayor Larry Agran Councilmember Mike Carroll Councilmember Tammy Kim Councilmember Kathleen Treseder

More than 50 years ago, the forefathers of Irvine developed a visionary concept to create a singularly unique City that balanced living, working, learning, and recreational environments. And it was from that vision that Irvine’s Master Plan was born. Through the years, Irvine has become one of the world’s premier cities by staying true to principles contained in the Master Plan. Today, as we advance key strategic projects, we continue to honor that vision. From the expansion and renovation of the Irvine Animal Care Center to the establishment of Gateway Preserve, and the addition of our City’s first gym, we are focused on enhancing the resources and green spaces that enrich the lives of our residents. Additionally, the ongoing development of the Great Park — poised to become the world’s next great metropolitan park — will solidify Irvine’s status as the capital of Orange County, offering unparalleled amenities and spaces. With all of this and so much more underway in Irvine, it’s no wonder we continue to be recognized as the best place to live in Orange County by The Orange County Register and its readers. Together, we are building on the solid foundation of our past while embracing the opportunities of the future as we serve our community in the continual pursuit of a City that offers an exceptional quality of life.

Oliver C. Chi Irvine City Manager

City Priorities

Irvine Just Got Cooler City Rolls Out First Protected Bikeway

This summer, Irvine became the first city in Orange County to apply an innovative pavement coating that extends the life of City streets while helping to reduce heat from the ground up. DuraShield Solar Reflective Grey pavement coating was applied on San Juan and San Leon as part of a pilot program. The unique grey coating, which is similar to slurry seal, reduces pavement surface temperature and may reduce ambient air temperatures. It also reduces UV and heat damage on pavement. In addition, it retains high friction in wet and dry conditions; quickly cures, enabling traffic to get back on the street the same day and reduce tracking; and does not affect driver glare. DuraShield is designed to last approximately seven years before it needs to be reapplied. City staff will monitor the pavement on San Juan and San Leon over the course of a year to analyze durability and surface and ambient air temperatures. A recognized leader in sustainability, the cool pavement pilot program aligns with the City’s climate adaptation efforts aimed at transforming Irvine into a model climate-smart city for the future. Visit cityofirvine.org/cool-pavement for more information.

Irvine has 286.42 miles of on-street and 113.24 miles of off-street bike lanes. Now, the City is making improvements to its extensive bicycle infrastructure with the addition of a Class IV protected bikeway on Cadence between Chinon and Radial. Construction on the Class IV protected bikeway, which will provide a physical separation between the bikeway and travel lanes, will be completed in November. The City is also designing improvements to better utilize roadway space for drivers, bicyclists, and pedestrians on Yale Avenue between University Drive and the 405 Freeway. For more information on Irvine’s bikeways, visit cityofirvine.org/sharestheway .

Inside Irvine

Winter 2024–25

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Game On: City Takes Steps to Establish First Indoor Gym For the past nine years, Irvine’s park system has ranked among the top 10 in the nation. It is about to get even better as the City works to establish what will be the largest municipally run gym in Orange County. While the City of Irvine has an extensive park portfolio made up of more than 60 neighborhood and community parks, the Great Park, and 16,000 acres of open space, the City has never owned an indoor gym. Community members have had access to indoor courts through joint use agreements between the Irvine and Tustin unified school districts. Now, the longstanding goal of a City-owned and operated gym in Irvine is closer to becoming a reality. In August, the City Council approved the purchase of a facility in the Irvine Business Complex (IBC). The 110,000-square-foot facility sits on a 7.3-acre site at 17300 Red Hill Ave. It will include badminton courts as well as multipurpose courts, a multipurpose room for various programming and public meeting space, office spaces, a food court area, and a reception area. It will be able to accommodate a variety of youth and adult sports organizations, tournaments, and City programming. The City is conducting outreach to the community before finalizing the gym’s program and site plan. The gym is anticipated to open in 2026. This project will enhance the quality of life in Irvine, increasing Irvine’s capacity to support a broad range of indoor sports and community events; enhancing recreational infrastructure in the IBC neighborhood; promoting wellness and healthy, active lifestyles for all residents; and fostering greater community engagement.

Irvine CONNECT irvineconnect.org

FREE SHUTTLE SERVICE

Making it easier than ever to get around the City.

Operating Hours Weekdays: 6 a.m.–8 p.m. Weekends: 8 a.m.–10 p.m.

Shuttle frequency is every 20 minutes.

For more information, call 949-72-GoBus or visit irvineconnect.org .

Irvine Civic Center Holiday Observances

In recognition of the winter holidays, City of Irvine offices will be closed and nonemergency services will be unavailable on the following dates: J November 28–29, 2024 J December 24–25, 2024 J January 1, 2025 Please visit cityofirvine.org for additional information.

IRVINE STATION

Irvine CONNECT

Irvine

City Priorities

CicloIrvine Event Returns to Irvine in 2025

City Recognized for Procurement Excellence

In May, Irvine hosted its first-ever car-free open streets event, CicloIrvine. The event was a massive success, with an estimated 10,000 attendees experiencing our City’s public spaces and local businesses in a new and innovative way. People were able to stroll, bike, and roll through nearly two miles of City streets closed to cars while enjoying food, live music, art, and engaging activities. The City is proud to bring the second annual occurrence of this event back to Irvine in 2025. The temporary reimagining of public space made possible by CicloIrvine promotes healthy, sustainable modes of transportation and fosters a greater sense of community for Irvine residents and businesses. The Irvine City Council formally established Cicolrvine as an annual event at its July 23 meeting. A date for the 2025 event and a route are in the works. Check cityofirvine.org/cicloirvine regularly for more information about this upcoming event.

a total of 198 successful applicants honored for embracing innovation, professionalism, productivity, leadership, and e-procurement. For more information about purchasing within the City of Irvine, please visit cityofirvine.org/purchasing .

The City of Irvine has once again been recognized nationally for utilizing best practices in public procurement. For the 19th consecutive year, the City’s Administrative Services Department has received the prestigious annual Achievement of Excellence in Procurement® (AEP) award from the National Procurement Institute (NPI). The award recognizes the City’s innovation, professionalism, productivity, and leadership in its commitment to acquiring quality goods and services at the best value to the City. The AEP program encourages the development of excellence as well as continued organizational improvement to earn the award annually. For 2024, the City of Irvine was one of only 72 cities from across the United States and Canada to receive the award. Irvine was one of 48 agencies in California, and the only city in Orange County awarded this honor. There was

Inside Irvine

Winter 2024–25

To view Inside Irvine online, please visit cityofirvine.org/insideirvine

Give Back this Holiday Season by Recycling Food Composting As the winter holiday season approaches, the City of Irvine encourages residents to recycle

Making Walking and Biking to School Easier Suggested Routes to School is a nationwide program that aims to create safer conditions around schools and encourages students, parents, and school staff to walk, bike, or roll to school. The City of Irvine, in partnership with Irvine Unified School District, Tustin Unified School District, and local public schools, is continuing the development of suggested routes throughout Irvine. A total of 45 schools in the City of Irvine will receive their own tailored Suggested Routes to School study. Each school will receive a School-Based Mobility Assessment, a Suggested Routes to School Map, and a Suggested Routes to School Action Plan. Over the next year, the City will work with school and district staff, parents, and the community to identify walking and bicycling challenges and recommend solutions that can improve those conditions. For more information, visit cityofirvine.org/sharestheway .

Tree Disposal For those with holiday trees, make sure to properly recycle your tree through WM, the City of Irvine’s official waste hauler. WM will collect trees for three consecutive weeks beginning December 26 at no additional charge. Leave your tree at the curb, or place cut-up tree pieces in the green waste cart with the lid completely closed. Visit wm.com for more information. Multi-family residences without curbside service may take their trees to be recycled at no additional charge to Sunset Environmental, 16122 Construction Circle West in Irvine. Trees will be accepted between December 27 and January 15: J Monday–Friday, 6 a.m.–5 p.m. J Saturday, 6 a.m.–3 p.m. Please note that trees will not be accepted on New Year’s Day. Bring a driver’s license or utility bill to show proof of residency.

food scraps. Not only will it help the environment, but it will also ensure compliance with Senate Bill 1383, a state law that requires recycling organic waste to reduce methane emissions. Organic waste in landfills emits 20% of California’s methane, a pollutant 84 times more potent than carbon monoxide. Recycling food scraps helps combat climate change, contributing to the City’s sustainability goals, and supporting food-recovery efforts for those in need. Organic waste includes food scraps such as meat, bones, dairy, fruit, and vegetables, as well as food-soiled paper products. After gathering for the holidays, properly dispose of this waste in your green cart. Residents and businesses are now allowed to use compostable bags, as well. Learn more at cityofirvine.org/sb1383 .

Discover Your District To create a more informed community, the City has launched a district dashboard highlighting key features and facilities within each of Irvine’s six newly formed districts. The interactive district dashboard was created to empower Irvine residents by providing them with a comprehensive and interactive tool to familiarize themselves with their specific districts and the resources available to them. It offers detailed information on district boundaries, key features, City facilities, and points of interest.

Visit cityofirvine.org/yourdistrict to view the dashboard and discover your district.

Great Park Report

Showcasing the Heart of the Park

The community came together in September to celebrate the future heart of the Great Park, an area spanning nearly 200 acres that will include world-class amenities and offer opportunities for relaxation, quiet reflection, musical entertainment, dining, and gatherings, such as picnics and weddings. During the Heart of the Park Showcase, renderings and markers in the undeveloped area highlighted the seven zones, providing a realistic vantage point of each feature coming to the park. Attendees could view firsthand the scale, design, and details of the carefully curated elements planned for the area.

The exciting amenities within the Heart of the Park are expected to be completed beginning in 2027. Take a closer look at what’s coming to the Heart of the Park. Amphitheater Experience the best of the best in community performances and entertainment at the amphitheater. City staff is working to carefully curate a 10,000-seat venue, drawing inspiration from the most iconic amphitheaters in the country to create a five-star setting for live music and more. Full Circle Farm The Full Circle Farm will pay tribute to the site’s agricultural heritage, serving as a community-based asset that brings the wonders of farming to life. Here, visitors can explore more than 200 commercial variety of plants, experience unique farm-to-table dining, and participate in a range of programming opportunities from cooking classes to an introduction to gardening series.

Amphitheater

Full Circle Farm

Inside Irvine

Winter 2024–25

To view Inside Irvine online, please visit cityofirvine.org/insideirvine

Grand Promenade The Grand Promenade will welcome visitors to the Great Park, setting the tone for the park experience. A tree-lined path creates a scenic and inviting atmosphere, leading visitors toward the attractions of the park, such as the Great Meadow, lakes and gardens, and cultural landmarks. Great Meadow Gather, relax, play, and connect in the Great Meadow. Surrounded by lush trees and located near the North and South Lakes, the Great Meadow will offer endless possibilities for the community to come together. North Lake Lush greenery lines the banks of the North Lake, offering shaded retreats where visitors can relax and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding parkland or take a leisurely stroll along its shores. The lake’s design incorporates sustainable features, such as eco-friendly water management systems and native plant habitats, fostering a thriving ecosystem that attracts local wildlife. South Lake The South Lake beckons with its own allure, characterized by a more intimate setting amidst rolling hills and verdant meadows. Winding pathways and boardwalks lead visitors on exploratory journeys along the water’s edge, offering glimpses of aquatic life and tranquil vistas framed by swaying reeds and gentle breezes. Timeline Bridge Journey through the past along the Timeline Bridge, which will feature the history of the Great Park and former Marine Corps Air Station El Toro, as well as international milestones, stamped onto the walkway. The Timeline Bridge will lead visitors to the North and South Lakes and will provide accessibility to all of the park’s features.

Grand Promenade

Great Meadow

North Lake

South Lake

Timeline Bridge

Learn more about the Great Park development at greatparkframework.org.

On the Forefront of Animal Care

Irvine Animal Care Center expansion and renovation project helps the City’s animal and human communities thrive.

The Irvine Animal Care Center has helped thousands of animals since its inception in 1982 — nursing sick and injured pets back to health; matching families with furry or feathered friends; and taking in transfers from overcrowded shelters. Now, more than 40 years later, the City of Irvine has broken ground on the center’s long-awaited expansion and renovations. Once complete, the Irvine Animal Care Center will feature a new veterinary clinic, refurbished kennel buildings, additional pet interaction areas, a new multipurpose room, updated administration and reception spaces, improved storm water drainage and treatment systems, and renovated landscaping. “We are proud of the collaborative efforts from the center and the City that have gone into this project,” Irvine Animal Care Center Manager Mike Cribbin said. “There is nothing that brings out humans’ humility, passion, and integrity more than caring for animals.”

Animal well-being and the Irvine community are the focal point of center upgrades. A welcoming and spacious reception area will allow staff to easily interact with the public, air-conditioned facilities and segmented spaces will increase animals’ comfort, and dedicated rooms for visitors to meet with potential pets will create a calmer environment for adoptions. The Irvine Animal Care Center also offers enhanced medical care for animals. This project will bring a new, modern medical facility with a surgical suite, increased diagnostic capabilities, and a purpose-built clinic to lower animals’ stress. “All this contributes to a higher level of care and a faster recovery time for animals, which make them more adoptable and reduces their length of stay,” Chief Veterinarian Dr. Becky Ringwald said. “The slate of improvements from this project will keep us on the forefront of animal sheltering.”

Inside Irvine

Winter 2024–25

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Care Amid Construction The center is open during renovations, with dedicated staff and volunteers continuing to provide high levels of care for center pets amid the expansion. Volunteers have donated their time, resources, and skills to keeping the animals comfortable and safe while construction occurs on-site. It’s one of many testaments to the center’s deep ties to the Irvine community and longtime volunteers. “Our Founding Volunteers were the first ones to dream of an Irvine shelter, and their empathy and dedication led the way for a facility like nothing else at the time,” Volunteer Program Supervisor Catherine Lovella said. “The partnership we have with center volunteers underpins our ability to deliver an exceptional quality of life for pets and the community — and will do so even more with the new facility.” Additionally, the renovated Irvine Animal Care Center will be LEED Gold certified, a nod to the City’s commitment to sustainability in all endeavors. The project is set to be complete by summer 2026.

“The center’s expansion continues to position the City as a leader in caring about the community,” Cribbin said. “Our animals are a part of that community, and we are proud to be of service.” Visit irvineanimals.org to learn more. Way Back When… When the Irvine Animal Care Center first opened in 1982, the nearest building was the U.S. Post Office a mile away and Sand Canyon was only one lane each way. Asparagus fields surrounded the facility and during the rainy season, center staff and volunteers had to make their way through flooded mud fields to get to work. Volunteers were instrumental in the early days of the center’s beginnings as a horse stable in Laguna Beach, and two of those Founding Volunteers even continue to donate their services today.

Irvine is Simply the Best Irvine continues to top the list as Orange County’s best place to call home.

The City of Irvine continues to be recognized as the best place to live in Orange County. In September, The Orange County Register released the “Best of Orange County 2024,” a guide to the top destinations, businesses, and attractions curated by Register readers. Irvine was voted “Best City to Live In” for the ninth consecutive year. Irvine’s schools, public safety, recreation programs, parks and trails, dining and shopping, and diversity all provide an unmatched quality of life. Home to more than 310,000 residents, Irvine continues to exemplify a livable City, master-planned for residents, businesses, and visitors alike. Irvine boasts one of the lowest per capita violent crime rates for its

size, based on FBI data. More than one-third of City land is preserved as parks, trails, and natural wildlands, and Irvine’s park system is continually ranked among the best in the nation. Looking ahead, the City continues working to enhance the community with the addition of Great Park Live and The Layover — the Great Park’s new hub for live entertainment, food, and beverages — and the continued development of more than 300 acres of new amenities underway at the Great Park. With the opening of a universal playground at Sweet Shade Neighborhood Park and the expansion and renovation of the Irvine Animal Care Center currently underway, the City continues elevating the resources and green spaces that enrich the lives of residents.

Inside Irvine

Winter 2024–25

To view Inside Irvine online, please visit cityofirvine.org/insideirvine

The coming addition of the City’s first gym will increase the capacity to support a broad range of indoor sports and community events, promoting healthy, active lifestyles for residents. In addition, the City is working to establish Gateway Preserve, which will provide new opportunities for hiking and biking, while connecting visitors to the vast 20,000-acre northern Open Space Preserve. Irvine is also expanding the reach of its sustainability efforts, including implementing eco-friendly transportation solutions with the free shuttle service, Irvine CONNECT; the addition of a Class IV protected bikeway; and the construction of the Jeffrey Open Space Trail Bicycle and Pedestrian Bridge, which will add a vital link within the City’s extensive trail network. For this year’s “Best of Orange County,” thousands of votes were cast by Register readers in more than 80 categories, and more than 40 businesses selected as winners or finalists can be found in Irvine. They are recognized in a variety of categories, including Best Four-Year College/University, Best Shopping/Dining Destination, and Best Bakery. For a complete list of winners, visit ocregister.com/best . To learn more about the “Best of Orange County” ranking, visit cityofirvine.org .

Among the Best in More Ways than One Irvine is continually recognized nationally as an outstanding place to live, work, and play. Check out a few of the accolades the City has received recently. J For the ninth consecutive year, Irvine has one

J Irvine is ranked No. 1 in Actively Play’s Best Cities for Outdoor Recreation. J Irvine is ranked No. 3 on WalletHub's list of Best Places to Raise a Family. J Irvine is ranked as the 10th Healthiest City in America by WalletHub.

of the best park systems in the nation, ranked fourth in the country and first in California by the Trust for Public Land.

J Irvine is the fifth Happiest City in America, according to a study by the personal finance outlet WalletHub.

Discover more about what makes Irvine unique at cityofirvine.org .

City Makes Strides in Establishing Gateway Preserve

The City of Irvine continues to make progress establishing the Gateway Preserve, hundreds of acres of planned accessible open space and residential housing in North Irvine.

In August, the City closed escrow and formally acquired what was the site of the All American Asphalt (AAA) plant. This milestone paves the way for Irvine to transform the 12-acre site into passive park space or a trail staging area, which will accompany additional open space in Gateway Preserve providing the community with new interpretive areas, native gardens, outdoor classrooms, and trails. “There is a lot to get excited about with this project. The trail network within the Gateway Preserve will connect to the Jeffrey Open Space Trail and OC Parks’ Limestone Canyon, giving the community opportunities to experience a wide range of destinations,” said Michael O’Connell, President and Chief Executive Officer of Irvine Ranch Conservancy (IRC), the City’s longtime partner in managing Irvine’s protected open space. “There are many benefits for the natural community as well. The City and IRC are planning restoration and enhancement projects in the Gateway Preserve that will improve habitat for wildlife and provide even more opportunities for visitors to experience them.”

In total, Gateway Preserve will span approximately 700 acres across portions of Orchard Hills and Portola Springs. Much of the open space within that area is designated as preserved land protected by the Natural Communities Conservation Planning (NCCP) program. The NCCP is a state program that identifies and provides for the regional protection of natural resources alongside economic and recreational developments. The threatened coastal sage scrub and chaparral habitats found within the Gateway Preserve area are vitally important to the preservation of rare and endangered plants and animals that rely on Irvine’s open space to survive. The City is working with IRC to ensure sensitive habitats and wildlife are protected as Gateway Preserve evolves. “Irvine is part of a globally important biodiversity hotspot. Many plants and animals that live in Gateway Preserve and the broader open space in Orange County are found nowhere else,” O’Connell said. “This means protecting and restoring a large area of open space in Irvine has even greater significance to the environment.”

Inside Irvine

Winter 2024–25

To view Inside Irvine online, please visit cityofirvine.org/insideirvine

“ ” Gateway Preserve is a testament to the City’s commitment to its residents; to creating sustainable, safe, and livable communities; and to protecting the natural environment for generations to come. Pete Carmichael City of Irvine Assistant City Manager

Additionally, the Gateway Preserve project includes improvements to the Jeffrey Open Space Trail (JOST) and development of a new residential village outside of the boundaries of the open space lands. The City has partnered with Brookfield Properties to facilitate development of the residential village. Site work will begin in late 2025, and homes will hit the market in 2027. The City broke ground on the JOST Bicycle and Pedestrian Bridge Project in March, which will complete a critical piece of the trail running from Barranca to Interstate 5. This 1.5-mile extension will provide a key linkage between trails that extend from the Pacific Ocean all the way up to the Santa Ana Mountains and Cleveland National Forest. The bridge is expected to be open to the public by early 2026. “We are excited to provide more families the opportunity to put down roots in our exceptional master-planned City,” said Irvine Assistant City Manager Pete Carmichael, “all while increasing responsible access to and protection of the Irvine Open Space Preserve.” Vist cityofirvine.org/gatewaypreserve to learn more.

Going the Extra Mile

Q&A with the Irvine Police Department Public Information Team

What key safety messages do you feel are most vital for the community to be aware of, especially with the holiday season just around the corner? Safety never takes a holiday. We need people to lock their vehicles and make sure that packages and valuables are not visible. Lock your homes and leave lights on when you leave. While shopping, be aware of your surroundings and watch your belongings. Never leave your purse or bag unattended in a shopping cart or stroller.

The Irvine Police Department’s Public Information Team consists of Public Information Specialist Kyle Oldoerp, Senior Multimedia Designer Tim Knight, Sgt. Karie Davies, and Lt. Cathy Scherer. The team has a combined total of more than 100 years of public safety experience. Their primary focus is highlighting the awesome work of the Irvine Police Department’s women and men through social media platforms, television and radio news, and print media.

Inside Irvine

Winter 2024–25

To view Inside Irvine online, please visit cityofirvine.org/insideirvine

Irvine has continually been recognized as the safest city of its size, according to FBI data. What role does the Irvine Police Department’s Public Information Team play in enhancing public safety? In the past few years, we have increased our presence in the media to be more transparent and provide a higher level of community awareness about the various careers within law enforcement. Highlighting the women and men of the Irvine Police Department is our daily responsibility. We pride ourselves in showcasing the talents, great arrests, teamwork, enthusiasm, and hard work of both our sworn and professional staff. Additionally, we educate our community with public safety tips, crime trends, and how we need the public’s assistance to be an effective police force. Our vehicles say, “In partnership with the community,” and this is featured every time we ask community members to help identify a wanted person or locate a missing member of our community. We could not be one of the safest cities for nearly 20 consecutive years if it weren’t for the collaborative and interactive partnership we have with our community. Your social media presence is both informative and humorous. How has the use of social media impacted the way the department informs and engages with residents? Our social media has become a highly effective tool for connecting and engaging with our community. By directly informing the community and showcasing the hard work that goes into keeping Irvine safe, we have raised awareness and increased trust in the community. As our audience has grown, we have had great success in finding wanted and missing persons. Follow the Irvine Police Department: @IrvinePD @IrvinePolice @IrvinePolice @IrvinePolice

Celebrate the holidays at the Great Park See more events on Page 18.

GREAT PARK 7 STARTS DECEMBER

Inside Irvine

Winter 2024–25

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Activity Guide

events & family activities 18

Registration begins November 15, 6 a.m. Celebrate the joy of the holiday season in Irvine! Join us Saturday, December 7, for Illuminate Irvine at the Great Park. Enjoy festive, family-friendly activities, timeless holiday music, and the lighting of the Holiday Tree at the Palm Court Arts Complex. While you are there, pick out the perfect gift at our Holiday Market featuring hand-crafted items from local artisans at Great Park Hangar 244. Make the season brighter for military families by participating in the annual Holiday Toy Drive. Donate a new, unwrapped gift for children ages 12 and younger by Saturday, December 14. And be sure to get your letters to Santa by Friday, December 13. View a full list of City of Irvine events beginning on Page 18. Plus, discover a variety of winter classes for all ages — from cooking and crafting to science experiments and dance. We have classes that will help you achieve your New Year’s resolutions, foster new talents, and connect with your community. Class and activity listings begin on Page 23.

early childhood

31 45 52 77 69 66 59 92 91 85 78 23

children

adults teens

older adults

disability services

aquatics

outdoors & nature

racket sports

pets arts

great park

information & resources 96

community services commission

Chair Jing Sun Vice Chair Soha Vazirnia

Commissioner Tom Chomyn Commissioner Doug Elliott

Commissioner James Mai

EVENTS & FAMILY ACTIVITIES

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 101112 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 13

GREAT PARK 7 DECEMBER DECEMBER

Illuminate Irvine December 7, 3–8 p.m. | Great Park Palm Court Arts Complex

Ring in the season with winter wonderland-inspired activities and holiday music classics. The evening includes the lighting of the Holiday Tree at the Palm Court Arts Complex. Guests are encouraged to donate a new, unwrapped gift for children up to age 12 to aid the Irvine 2/11 Marine Adoption Committee Holiday Toy Drive. For more information, visit cityofirvine.org/specialevents . Holiday Market December 7, 3–8 p.m. & December 8, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. | Great Park Hangar 244 A festive, holiday artisan-focused shopping experience at the Great Park. The event will take place entirely indoors and feature a curated selection of vendors whose handmade offerings span jewelry, ceramics, folk-crafts, woodworking, glass work, and more. For more information, visit irvinefinearts.org/events . Holidayz at the Park December 7–29, 5–9 p.m. Fridays, 1–8 p.m. weekends | Great Park ’Tis the season for family fun and holiday cheer at the Great Park. Enjoy Holidayz at the Park as the park will be transformed into a winterscape of holiday-themed art, music, and lights. Visit the Palm Court Arts Complex to enjoy interactive displays and festive photo backdrops. Visit yourgreatpark.org/holidayz for more information.

GREAT PARK 7 STARTS DECEMBER GREAT PARK 7 STARTS DECEMBER

cityofirvine.org/ holidayz

ART EXHIBITIONS

irvine fine arts gallery great park art gallery

see page 87 see page 94

Inside Irvine

Winter 2024–25

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Stay updated & follow the City of Irvine.

December Events Continued

Letters to Santa November 18–December 13

COMMUNITY 13 ENDS DECEMBER

City of Irvine is accepting and sorting Santa's mail this holiday season. Letters can be mailed or dropped off to Heritage, Northwood, and Turtle Rock Community Centers. Responses to letters can be picked up where the letter was accepted. Allow one week for responses. A drop-off/pick-up box will be available at each location. For more information, visit cityofirvine.org/letterstosanta .

Send or drop off letters to: Santa Claus c/o Heritage Community Center

Santa Claus c/o Northwood Community Center

Santa Claus c/o Turtle Rock Community Center 1 Sunnyhill Irvine, CA 92603

14301 Yale Ave. Irvine, CA 92604

4531 Bryan Ave. Irvine, CA 92620

COMMUNITY 14 ENDS DECEMBER ARTS 13 STARTS DECEMBER

art at city hall Minna Chow: Traditional Chinese Brush Painting December 13–March 21 | Opening Reception: December 17, 2–4 p.m. | Irvine City Hall

Artist Minna Chow has been living and working in Irvine for the last 40 years, creating brush paintings in the traditional Chinese style. Minna Chow: Traditional Chinese Brush Painting surveys the latest work by Chow, showcasing her love for nature and tradition. For more information, visit cityofirvine.org/artatcityhall. Irvine 2/11 Marine Adoption Committee Holiday Toy Drive Through December 14 | Irvine City Hall, Irvine Police Department & Great Park Visitors Center Make the season brighter for Irvine’s adopted Marine Battalion families and donate a new, unwrapped gift for infants or children ages 12 and younger. Drop off during normal business hours at Irvine City Hall, Irvine Police Department, and the Great Park Visitors Center. For more information, visit cityofirvine.org/211 or call 949-724-6606.

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JANUARY

More Than You Can Chew January 26–April 20 | Great Park Gallery | Exhibition Opening: January 26, 1–3pm

GREAT PARK 26 STARTS JANUARY COMMUNITY 29 STARTS JANUARY

Extending beyond aesthetics and taste, More Than You Can Chew surveys contemporary artworks that examine the cultural, economic, and political foundations that shape our culinary experiences. Acting as conduits for discourse, the artworks included in this exhibition bring new ideas to familiar subjects. Explore the complexities of food through a lens that merges the edible with artistic integrity, showcasing that some of the most simple and familiar things can hold hidden and elaborate meanings. Free Tax Filing January 29–April 15 | Harvard Community Center If you live, work, or attend school in Irvine, and your household income was less than $60,000, you may be eligible to file your taxes for free and access valuable tax credits. Appointments are available Tuesdays, noon–7:30 p.m. Visit cityofirvine.org/freetaxfiling to learn more.

Stay updated & follow the City of Irvine.

Let’s Talk History The Irvine Historical Museum connects people to and creates an understanding, empathy, and concern about the city we live in. Refreshments provided. Inst: Irvine Historical Society. Ages 12+ Su Jan 26 2:30pm–4pm IHM Free #111988 Ages 12+ Su Feb 23 2:30pm–4pm IHM Free #111989 Old Town Irvine Tour This docent-led walking tour reveals what life was like in Irvine in the early 1900s' with site tours of the bean granary, boarding house, blacksmith shop, and more. Inst: Irvine Historical Society. Ages 12+ Su Jan 12 Noon–1pm LQI Free #111985 Ages 12+ Su Feb 9 Noon–1pm LQI Free #111986 Ages 12+ Su Mar 9 Noon–1pm LQI Free #111987

FAMILY ACTIVITIES Let’s Cook Together

Explore a new recipe and develop basic culinary skills as a family. Registration covers one child and one adult only. Adult partici- pation required. Inst: Bryan Estrada. Pear Galette Ages 6–11 Sa Feb 8 10am–Noon FAC $76 #111642 Flourless Chocolate Cake Ages 6–11 Sa Mar 8 10am–Noon FAC $76 #111643 Family Art Time Parents and children experiment with painting, clay, or print- making. Parent must enroll and participate with enrolled child. Fee is per person. Mixed Media Ages 6+ Sa Jan 18 10am–11:30am FAC $9 #111623 Ages 6+ Sa Mar 15 10am–11:30am FAC $9 #111639 Painting Ages 6+ Sa Feb 8 10am–11:30am FAC $9 #111636 Printmaking Ages 6+ Sa Feb 22 10am–11:30am FAC $9 #111637 Clay Ages 6+ Sa Mar 8 10am–11:30am FAC $9 #111638 Let's Be Friends Stay up-to-date with Irvine:

Winter Registration Begins November 15, 6 a.m. at yourirvine.org .

Subscribe to Emails public.govdelivery.com/accounts/CAIRVINE/subscriber/new

Now open in Irvine!

Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center and Ambulatory Care building • Four floors of the most advanced cancer screening, diagnostics and treatments in the region. • An infusion center featuring 40 infusion chairs and breathtaking views of the wetlands. • Advanced surgical techniques, including outpatient prostate cancer surgery, which may allow you to go home the same day. • One of the largest clinical trial programs in Orange County to give you access to the latest treatments and therapies.

Joe C. Wen & Family Center for Advanced Care • Five-story, 168,000-square-foot outpatient facility. • Specialty care, urgent care, digestive health, neurosciences and comprehensive laboratory and radiology imaging services in one convenient location. • Center for Children’s Health will offer primary and specialty pediatric services. • New home of the Center for Autism & Neurodevelopmental Disorders,

providing care to individuals living with autism spectrum disorders, attention-deficit/

hyperactivity disorder and other neurodevelopmental disorders. • Urgent care open 8 a.m.–8 p.m., 7 days a week.

To learn more or to make an appointment, visit ucihealth.org/irvinehospital

Early Childhood Early Childhood Early Childhood Early Childhood The Lending Library at Irvine’s Child Resource Center gives parents and educators access to educational toys and books. Staff are available to answer questions and help select the best materials: • Early Learning Books • Child Development Activities • Parenting Resources • Family Child Care Reference Materials • Educational Toys • Lamination & Ellison Die Cut Machines cityofirvine.org/crc 949-724-6721 14341 Yale Ave.

CHILD RESOURCE CENTER Monday–Thursday: Noon–7 p.m.

cityofirvine.org/crc

early childhood

Messy, Muddy Hands & Toes Get crafty creating art with fingers, feet, mud, and suds. There will be new projects each month. Parent participation required. Supply fee: $20. Inst: Shannon Coykendall. Ages 1–6 Th Jan 9–Jan 30 9am–9:45am HPC $64 #112027 Ages 1–6 Th Jan 9–Jan 30 10am–10:45am HPC $64 #112028 Ages 1–6 Th Feb 6–Feb 27 9am–9:45am HPC $64 #112029 Ages 1–6 Th Feb 6–Feb 27 10am–10:45am HPC $64 #112030 Ages 1–6 Th Mar 6–Mar 27 9am–9:45am HPC $64 #112031 Ages 1–6 Th Mar 6–Mar 27 10am–10:45am HPC $64 #112032 Nature Keepsakes Create special keepsakes to be treasured forever utilizing mate- rials provided by nature. Parent participation required. Valentine’s Day Ages 3–5 Tu Feb 11 9:30am–10:30am TRN $20 #114116 St. Patrick’s Day Ages 3–5 M Mar 17 9:30am–10:30am TRN $20 #114117 Paint, Paste & Pour Hands-on experiences with manipulative art and sensory mate- rials. New activities each session. Parent participation required. Supply fee: $25. Inst: Rachel Westfall. Ages 1.5–6 Tu Jan 7–Jan 28 9am–9:45am QHC $60 #112560 Ages 1.5–6 Tu Jan 7–Jan 28 10am–10:45am QHC $60 #112561 Ages 1.5–6 Tu Feb 4–Feb 25 9am–9:45am QHC $60 #112562 Ages 1.5–6 Tu Feb 4–Feb 25 10am–10:45am QHC $60 #112563 Ages 1.5–6 Tu Mar 4–Mar 25 9am–9:45am QHC $60 #112564 Ages 1.5–6 Tu Mar 4–Mar 25 10am–10:45am QHC $60 #112565 Parent & Me: Art Time Parents work alongside participants as they are introduced to new mediums each week. Ages 3–5 W Jan 15–Jan 29 11am–Noon FAC $39 #111648 Ages 3–5 Th Jan 16–Jan 30 11am–Noon FAC $39 #111647 Ages 3–5 W Feb 5–Feb 19 11am–Noon FAC $39 #111650 Ages 3–5 Th Feb 6–Feb 20 11am–Noon FAC $39 #111649 Ages 3–5 W Feb 26–Mar 12 11am–Noon FAC $39 #111652 Ages 3–5 Th Feb 27–Mar 13 11am–Noon FAC $39 #111651 Slime Time It's time to slime! Using child-friendly products, children will enjoy being the creator of their own gooey goodness. They'll create new slimes every week and learn the science behind their mixture. Ages 3–5 Th Jan 23 3:30pm–4:30pm DCC $20 #114239

WINTER CAMPS Deerfield iCamp

This onsite camp includes games, crafts, sports, songs, and more. Join us for camp fun and an abundance of different activ- ities taking place each day. *No class 12/24, 12/25, 1/1. Ages 4.5–6 Tu–F Dec 23–Jan 3* 8am–1pm DCC $30 #114236 ARTS & CRAFTS Artists in Training There is an artist in everyone. Let your preschooler express their artistic side while learning different art mediums. Ages 3.5–5 Tu Jan 21–Feb 4 1pm–2:30pm FAC $45 #111603 Ages 3.5–5 M Jan 27–Feb 10 10am–11:30am FAC $45 #111601 Ages 3.5–5 Tu Feb 11–Feb 25 1pm–2:30pm FAC $45 #111604 Ages 3.5–5 M Feb 24–Mar 10 10am–11:30am FAC $45 #111602 Brush Game A colorful canvas where young artists can let their imaginations run wild, fostering creativity and early childhood development. Inst: Beauty of Music. *No class 1/20. Ages 3–6 M Jan 6–Feb 10* 10am–11am UNC $150 #113010 Ages 3–6 M Feb 24–Mar 17 10am–11am UNC $120 #113011 Clay Playhouse Your child will unleash their creativity in a playful environ- ment through adorable projects like animals and miniature food items. Join us for a world of clay, where imagination takes shape and every creation is as cute as possible. Supply fee: $20. Inst: Beauty of Music. *No class 1/20. Ages 3–6 M Jan 6–Feb 10* 11:05am–12:05pm UNC $150 #113012 Ages 3–6 M Feb 24–Mar 17 11:05am–12:05pm UNC $120 #113013 Let’s Make Dough Toss it, pat it, or bake it. Join us while we create fun projects with dough. Parent participation required. Winter Fun: Sparkle Party! Ages 3–5 W Jan 8 10am–11am HPC $20 #114465 Winter Fun: Fluffy Snow Dough Ages 3–5 W Jan 22 10am–11am HPC $20 #114467 Winter Fun: Cupid’s Flubber Ages 3–5 W Feb 26 10am–11am HPC $20 #114470

Events and family activities are available in the Events & Family Activities section of Inside Irvine . PAGE 18

Inside Irvine

Winter 2024–25

To view Inside Irvine online, please visit cityofirvine.org/insideirvine

Dance & Performing Arts Classes by SoCa Arts

In the SoCa Arts Progression Program, dancers of all ages track their individual accomplishments each week with dance goals and objectives. View full course descriptions at yourirvine.org . Achievement certificates presented to all dancers at the end of each session. More info: info@socaarts.com or 714-486-2022. *No class 1/20, 2/1, 2/17, 2/24.

All-in-One Dance Ages 3–5 Sa Ballet & Tap Combo Ages 3–6 Tu

Parent & Me: All-in-One Dance Ages 1.5–3 W Jan 15–Mar 12 9:35am–10:05am CYC $104

Jan 18–Mar 15 11:30am–12:15pm NWC $154

#112619

#112585 #112660

Ages 1.5–3 Sa

Jan 18–Mar 15 9am–9:30am

PSC $104

Parent & Me: Creative Movement & Music Ages 1.5–3 Sa Jan 18–Mar 15* 9am–9:30am UNC $92 #112664 Parent & Me: Princess Ballet & Play Ages 1.5–3 W Jan 15–Mar 12 9am–9:30am CYC $104 #112584 Ages 1.5–3 Sa Jan 18–Mar 15 9am–9:30am NWC $104 #112615 Ages 1.5–3 Sa Jan 18–Mar 15 9:55am–10:25am CYC $104 #112608 Pop Star Hip-Hop Mini’s Ages 3–5 Sa Jan 18–Mar 15 10:35am–11:20am NWC $154 #112618 Pre-Primary Ballet Ages 3–4 M Jan 13–Mar 17 3:30pm–4:15pm CYC $135 #112575 Princess Ballet Ages 3–6 Tu Jan 14–Mar 11 3:30pm–4:15pm PSC $154 #112620 Ages 3–5 W Jan 15–Mar 12 10:10am–10:55am CYC $154 #112586 Ages 3–6 W Jan 15–Mar 12 3:30pm–4:15pm QHC $154 #112672 Ages 3–6 Th Jan 16–Mar 13 4:20pm–5:05pm CYC $154 #112604 Ages 3–6 Sa Jan 18–Mar 15 9am–9:45am CYC $154 #112607 Ages 3–6 Sa Jan 18–Mar 15 10:30am–11:15am PSC $154 #112662 Tiny Tots Ballet Ages 2.5–4 Th Jan 16–Mar 13 4:25pm–5:10pm PSC $154 #112676 Tiny Tots Tap Ages 3–6 Sa Jan 18–Mar 15 10:35am–11:20am CYC $154 #112609

Jan 14–Mar 11 4:25pm–5:10pm

CYC $154

#112581 #112666

Ages 3–6

Jan 18–Mar 15* 10:35am–11:20am UNC $135

Ballet, Jazz & Tumbling Combo Ages 4–7 Tu Jan 14–Mar 11 5:20pm–6:05pm PSC $154

#112622 #112663

Ages 3–6

Jan 18–Mar 15 11:20am–12:05pm PSC $154

Ballet, Tumble & Play Ages 2.5–4 W Butterfly Ballerinas Ages 3–6 Th

Jan 15–Mar 12 11am–11:45am

CYC $154

#112587

Jan 16–Mar 13 3:30pm–4:15pm Jan 18–Mar 15* 9:40am–10:25am Jan 18–Mar 15 9:40am–10:25am

CYC $154 UNC $135 NWC $154

#112603 #112665 #112617

Ages 3–6 Ages 3–6

Sa Sa

Children’s Musical Theater Ages 3–5 M Jan 13–Mar 17* 3:30pm–4:15pm

QHC $119 QHC $119 NWC $135 PSC $154

#112668 #112670 #112611 #112628

Ages 4–7 Ages 3–6 Ages 3–6

M Tu Th

Jan 13–Mar 17* 4:25pm–5:10pm Jan 14–Mar 4 3:30pm–4:15pm Jan 16–Mar 13 3:30pm–4:15pm

Hip-Hop & Tumble Ages 3–6 Tu

Jan 14–Mar 11 3:30pm–4:15pm Jan 14–Mar 11 4:25pm–5:10pm Jan 15–Mar 12 4:25pm–5:10pm Jan 15–Mar 12 3:30pm–4:15pm

CYC $154 PSC $154 QHC $154 CYC $154

#112580 #112621 #112673 #112588 #112610

Ages 4–7 Ages 3–5 Ages 3–6 Ages 3–6

Tu W W Sa

Jan 18–Mar 15 11:30am–12:15pm CYC $154

SOCA ARTS LAST DAY PERFORMANCE All classes (except Parent & Me) include a performance for family on the last day of class. Students will demonstrate the skills they have learned in class by performing a short dance. If your student enjoys performing on the last day of class, please contact SoCa Arts at 714-486-2022 to inquire about future recital opportunities and costume costs. Seasonal recitals are only offered as an option for those enrolled in Winter and Fall sessions. Recitals are offered independent- ly by SoCa Arts, and are not City of Irvine-affiliated events.

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