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Don’t Miss These 5 Must-See Nutcracker Productions in Orange County

Issue # 0303

Author

Joshua Tjia
05 Dec

In this Irvine Insider Issue . . .

😁 Laugh Of The Day

🌤️ Irvine Weather

🩰🎄 Don’t Miss These Must-See Nutcracker Productions in Orange County

❄️☕️🍫 Celebrate the Holidays at Winter Fest – Dec. 13 at Woodbridge Village Center

🎺🎶 Handel’s Messiah Comes to Life with Pacific Symphony This Sunday

🎁🎄🎁 Celebrate Christmas in Irvine with Tree Lighting, Holiday Market, and Dazzling Lights

🎅🏻📫 Share Your Christmas Wishes with Santa—Submit Your Letter Today

🎄💔 Fight Seasonal Sadness: A Senior’s Guide to Joy and Well-Being

🐺🌳 Protecting Nature, Preserving Wildlife: A Look Back at World Wildlife Conservation Day

🎨🌨️ Family Ornament Decorating at Irvine Katie Wheeler Library

🎼🎼 Upcoming High School Music Calendar

🐈🐈‍⬛ More Than Just a Cute Feature: The Fascinating Role of Cat Whiskers

🏀 UCI Basketball’s Devin Tillis Dominates the Western Slam with MVP Performance

🏀🏐🎾⚾ UCI Anteaters Upcoming Home Games

🏀🏀 Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS

🏀 Woodbridge Boys Basketball Dominates Churchie JV, 76-49, in Portola-Woodbridge Classic

🏈🎾 High School Athletics Calendar

🚔📱 Irvine Police Seek Suspect in LA Fitness Cell Phone Theft

🍏🥭🍑 Local Farmers Markets

🌟🏪🎉Irvine’s Best Kept Secrets: Is Your Business One of Them?

📅📅 Lots of Local Events

📞💡 Useful Contact Information

What do Santa's elves learn in school?

The elf-abet.

We hope this joke brings some laughter to your day! 😁

Don’t Miss These Must-See Nutcracker Productions in Orange County

This holiday season, Orange County offers an array of Nutcracker performances, each bringing its own twist to the timeless classic. From world-class productions to intimate, family-friendly shows, these events celebrate the magic of Tchaikovsky's beloved ballet while showcasing the creativity and talent of local and international artists. Here's a look at five standout performances you won't want to miss:

1. American Ballet Theatre 

  •  Where: Segerstrom Center for the Arts, Costa Mesa

  •  When: Dec. 12-22

  •  Highlight: Chloe Misseldine debuts as Clara in Alexei Ratmansky's innovative rendition.

  •  Cost: Starting at $32.77

  •  Contact: scfta.org | 714-556-2787

2. Festival Ballet Theatre 

  •  Where: Irvine Barclay Theatre, Irvine

  •  When: Dec. 7-24

  •  Highlight: Blends local talent with renowned guest artists like Tiler Peck of New York City Ballet.

  •  Cost: Starting at $54

  •  Contact: festivalballet.org 

3. Ballet Project OC 

  •  Where: Yorba Linda Cultural Arts Center, Yorba Linda

  •  When: Dec. 20-22

  •  Highlight: Interactive and intimate, with an immersive lobby experience.

  •  Cost: $50

  •  Contact: balletprojectoc.org 

4. Long Beach Ballet 

  •  Where: Terrace Theater, Long Beach

  •  When: Dec. 14-22

  •  Highlight: Lavish production with pyrotechnics, live animals, and a full orchestra.

  •  Cost: Starting at $38

  •  Contact: longbeachnutcracker.com 

Whether you're seeking a traditional spectacle or a fresh, modern take, these performances capture the magic of The Nutcracker while offering something special for everyone.

Celebrate the Holidays at Winter Fest – Dec. 13 at Woodbridge Village Center

Join the holiday celebration at Winter Fest at Woodbridge Village Center on Friday, December 13, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM.

  • Enjoy live holiday music, winter crafts, family-friendly activities, a s’mores bar, and festive photo opportunities.

  • Don’t miss the chance to enter a free raffle to win a Porsche Mini Car, courtesy of Fletcher Jones Southern California.

  • Come and make magical holiday memories at Winter Fest!

Handel’s Messiah Comes to Life with Pacific Symphony This Sunday

Handel’s Messiah will be performed by Pacific Symphony and Pacific Chorale this Sunday, Dec. 8, at 3 PM. Audiences can look forward to an afternoon of majestic music, featuring soaring trumpets, thundering timpani, and the renowned “Hallelujah Chorus.” This timeless masterpiece promises to bring joy and reflection to the holiday season. Tickets are available at pacificsymphony.org/handels-glorious-messiah.

Celebrate Christmas in Irvine with Tree Lighting, Holiday Market, and Dazzling Lights

Celebrate the Christmas season with these festive holiday events in Irvine:

  • Illuminate Irvine
    📅 Saturday, December 7, 3–8 p.m. (Tree lighting at 5 p.m.)
    📍 Great Park Palm Court Arts Complex
    🎄 Enjoy live music, family-friendly activities, and the Christmas Tree lighting. Bring a new, unwrapped gift for children up to age 12 to support the Irvine 2/11 Marine Adoption Committee Holiday Toy Drive.

  • Irvine Fine Arts Center Holiday Market
    📅 Saturday, December 7, 3–8 p.m. & Sunday, December 8, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
    📍 Irvine Fine Arts Center
    🛍️ Shop unique, handcrafted holiday items from 28 skilled vendors and artisans.

  • Holidayz at the Park
    📅 December 7–29
    📍 Great Park Palm Court Arts Complex
    🌟 Stroll through sparkling Christmas light displays that twinkle and shimmer throughout the season.

Admission and parking for all events are free!
For more information, visit cityofirvine.org/events.

Share Your Christmas Wishes with Santa—Submit Your Letter Today

Writing to Santa is a delightful way to share your holiday cheer, wish list, and good deeds!

  • Start with a cheerful greeting, introduce yourself, explain why you’re writing, highlight your good deeds, share your thoughtful Christmas wishes, and thank Santa before signing your name.

  • Drop off your letters at Heritage Community Center, Turtle Rock Community Park, or Northwood Community Center by December 13.

  • Gus the Elf will ensure every letter gets a reply within a week, which you can pick up at the drop-off location.

  • Visit cityofirvine.org/letterstosanta for more info.

Fight Seasonal Sadness: A Senior’s Guide to Joy and Well-Being

Seasonal sadness and depression, especially for seniors, can be common during the holidays due to loss, isolation, or health concerns, says UCI Health geriatrician Dr. Renee Abueg.

  • Triggers like flu season, COVID-19 concerns, and holiday pressures can worsen feelings of sadness.

  • Warning signs include persistent low mood, disinterest in activities, sleep or appetite changes, irritability, or concentration issues.

  • Reach out for help if needed, including contacting 988 for crisis support.

  • Coping tips include setting realistic expectations, staying active, eating well, connecting with loved ones, volunteering, and limiting exposure to distressing news.

  • Honor loved ones with meaningful traditions and create new ones. Don't forget to be kind to yourself and take care of your well-being this holiday season.

Protecting Nature, Preserving Wildlife: A Look Back at World Wildlife Conservation Day

Yesterday was World Wildlife Conservation Day! The day highlighted the importance of protecting spaces like the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks to ensure a thriving future for the wildlife that inhabits them. It served as a reminder of the collective effort needed to preserve these natural treasures.

Family Ornament Decorating at Irvine Katie Wheeler Library

Join a fun, family-friendly Ornament Decorating event at the Irvine Katie Wheeler Library on Monday, December 9, from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Families can create unique ornaments by filling clear baubles with decorative materials to cherish for years. Perfect for kids and families who love crafts!

Upcoming Northwood High School’s Music Calendar

  1. Wed, December 5, 7:00 - 8:30 PM: Instumental Music Winter Concert

  2. Fri, December 13, 7:00 - 8:30 PM: Winter Gala Concert

For the latest updates or additional details, please visit https://timbmusic.org/events/

Upcoming University High School's Choirs Calendar

  1. Thu, December 5, 7:00 PM: A Winter Celebration at Big Theater.

For the latest updates or additional details, please visit https://www.uhschoirs.org/2024-25-season.html

Upcoming Woodbridge High School's Music Calendar

  1. Thurs, December 12, 7:00 - 9:00 PM: Winter Concerts: Concert Orchestra, Symphonic Orchestra and Philharmonic Orchestra

  2. Fri, December 13, 7:00 - 9:00 PM: Winter Concerts: Concert Band, Symphonic Band and Wind Ensemble

For the latest updates or additional details, please visit https://www.whs-music.org/

Upcoming Woodbridge High School’s Vocal Music Calendar

  1. Fri, December 6, 7:00 PM: Winter Celebration Concert at WHS Performing Arts Center.

For the latest updates or additional details, please visit https://woodbridgechoirs.weebly.com/calendar.html

Upcoming Irvine High School's Music Calendar

  1. Wed, December 18, 6:00-10:00 PM: IM Winter Concert

For the latest updates or additional details, please visit https://www.vimb.info/calendar

More Than Just a Cute Feature: The Fascinating Role of Cat Whiskers

Cat whiskers aren’t just adorable—they’re vital sensory tools that help cats navigate their world.

  • These thick, deeply rooted hairs are packed with nerve endings and act like radar, detecting air currents and vibrations to sense nearby objects, even in the dark.

  • Whiskers also aid in balance, protect cats’ eyes, and communicate emotions like curiosity or fear.

  • Strategically located on a cat’s face and body, whiskers help them avoid obstacles and gauge tight spaces.

  • Because they’re so essential, whiskers need care—never pull, cut, or overstimulate them, and use flat dishes to prevent discomfort. Whiskers are as functional as they are charming!

UCI Basketball’s Devin Tillis Dominates the Western Slam with MVP Performance

Devin Tillis, UC Irvine men's basketball redshirt senior, earned Sgt. Pepperoni's Anteater of the Week after leading the team to victory in the Western Slam Championship and being named tournament MVP. Tillis excelled with standout performances, including 15 points against Kennesaw State, 11 rebounds versus Kent State, and a career-high 25 points in the final against Towson. Across the tournament, he averaged 16 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 2.7 assists, shooting an impressive 69.2% from the field.

UCI Anteaters Upcoming Home Games

Men’s Basketball

  1. Thu, Dec 5: vs Cal State Bakersfield, 7:00 PM

🏐⚽🏀 Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS 

Women’s Basketball

  1. Sat, Dec 14: vs Glendale, 3:00 PM

Men’s Basketball

  1. Fri, Dec 13: vs Mt. San Antonio, 5:00 PM

  2. Fri, Dec 20: vs Cypress, 7:00 PM

  3. Mon, Dec 30: vs Alumni, 6:00 PM

Woodbridge Boys Basketball Dominates Churchie JV, 76-49, in Portola-Woodbridge Classic

Woodbridge High School’s boys basketball team secured a dominant 76-49 victory over Australia’s Churchie JV team during the Portola-Woodbridge Classic. The Warriors led throughout the game, showcasing strong performances from junior Jaiden Sabino and sophomore Garrett Dicostanzo, who scored 18 points each, with contributions from Jason Briggs and Zaccaria Saleh (10 points each). Coach Steve Scoggin praised the team’s effort and highlighted Dicostanzo’s emergence as a key scorer. Churchie’s Director Aaron Harding commended his team’s effort despite limited experience together. The event continues through Saturday, featuring games at Woodbridge and Portola.

High School Athletics Calendar

** Updated With December Schedule

Upcoming Irvine High School’s Varsity home games:

November 2024  

Friday, December 6

  • 05:00 PM: Soccer, Boys VR vs. Estancia at Irvine High School Stadium

Tuesday, December 10

  • 04:00 PM: Water Polo, Girls VR vs. Portola at Woolett Pool

Irvine Police Seek Suspect in LA Fitness Cell Phone Theft

Irvine Police are seeking help identifying a suspect who stole multiple cell phones from the LA Fitness basketball court on Barranca. If you can assist in identifying this individual, contact [email protected].

Irvine’s Best Kept Secrets: Is Your Business One of Them?

We know our community is brimming with businesses that have fascinating stories and big hearts. If you’re a local business owner making waves, crafting unique experiences, or simply putting a smile on our faces, we want to chat with you! “Irvine Insider” is eager to shine a light on the unsung heroes of our city. Let’s collaborate and let the community know what makes your business special.

Click the link below and fill out the Local Business Spotlight Application Form to be featured and let’s celebrate the spirit of Irvine together!

Irvine Insider is sent to a local audience of Irvine residence Monday through Friday with 50% - 60% open rate. Our newsletter is a great way to reach Irvine residents.

  • Kaiser Permanente Irvine Farmers Market

  • Saturday Farmers Market at Mariners Church Irvine

    • When: Saturday, 8 AM - 12 PM

    • Where: 5428 Bonita Canyon Dr, Irvine, CA 92603

  • Great Park Certified Farmers Market

  • Manassero Farmers

    • When: Daily, 9 AM - 4:30 PM

    • Where: 33 Irvine Valley, Irvine, CA 92604

  • Tanaka Farms

    • When: Daily, 9 AM - 5 PM

    • Where: 5380 3/4 University Dr, Irvine, CA 92612

    • More Info:Tanaka Farms

November 1 - December 14 Annual Holiday Toy Drive

November 18 – December 13 Letters to Santa

November 29– December 29 Hikari Festival of Lights

December 5 - 7 Art of the Spanish Guitar 8 PM

December 7 - 8 Holiday Market 3 - 8 PM

December 7 - 15 Holiday Makers Mart 10 AM - 4 PM

December 8 Handel's Glorious Messiah 3 PM

December 17 Holiday Organ Spectacular 7:30 PM

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