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Lights, Music, Magic: Celebrate the Holidays with Irvine's Top Festive Events

Issue # 0297

Author

Joshua Tjia
25 Nov

In this Irvine Insider Issue . . .

😁 Laugh Of The Day

🌤️ Irvine Weather

🏮🎄🏮 Lights, Music, Magic: Celebrate the Holidays with Irvine's Top Festive Events

🚦🚔 Irvine Traffic Enforcement Cracks Down on Speeding and Distracted Driving Near Schools

🎶🎼 Experience the Art of the Spanish Guitar with Mak Grgić and Pacific Symphony, Dec. 5–7

🎏🎌 Cool Japan Center Opens in Irvine, Showcasing Japanese Culture and Art

⛸️❄️ Skate, Dance, and Shine: Glide & Groove at Irvine Spectrum

😷 Comprehensive Care for Persistent Coughs in Orange County

🌱🌾 IRC and OCWR Team Up: Compost and Mulch Donation Revitalizes Native Seed Farm

☕️🖌️ Hot Chocolate, Paintbrushes, and Fun: Don’t Miss Teen/Tween Craft Hour

🎼🎼 Upcoming High School Music Calendar

🐈‍⬛ Meet Mystic: A Sweet and Independent Cat Ready for Her Forever Home

🏀 UC Irvine Men’s Basketball Shatters Records in Thrilling Victory Over Weber State

🏀🏐🎾⚾ UCI Anteaters Upcoming Home Games

⚽️ IVC Men’s Soccer Wraps 2024 Season with Four All-Conference Honors

🏀🏀 Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS

🏈 Portola Football Defeats Baldwin Park 30-14, Advances to First CIF Title Game

🏈🎾 High School Athletics Calendar

🚔📦 Irvine Police Seek Public’s Help to Identify Suspected Package Thief

🍏🥭🍑 Local Farmers Markets

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

📅📅 Lots of Local Events

📞💡 Useful Contact Information

What do turkeys give thanks for on Thanksgiving?

Vegetarians.

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

Lights, Music, Magic: Celebrate the Holidays with Irvine's Top Festive Events


Celebrate the season with these festive events around Irvine, perfect for creating holiday memories with family and friends!

  • Hikari Festival of Lights: Wander through over 1 million twinkling lights, enjoy wagon rides, crafts, Santa visits, and live music at Tanaka Farms.

    • When: Nov. 29–Dec. 29 (closed Dec. 24-25), 4:30–9:00 p.m.

    • Tickets: Adults $25-$35; Children $15-$25

  • Holiday Music at Irvine Barclay Theatre: Enjoy festive concerts, including The 5 Browns (Dec. 1), Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra (Dec. 5), Canadian Brass (Dec. 12), and The King’s Singers (Dec. 13).

  • Christmas Train: Take a magical train ride to Santa’s Village for activities like ice fishing, cookie decorating, and more at Irvine Regional Park (Nov. 29–Dec. 23).

  • The Nutcracker: Experience the magic of Festival Ballet Theatre’s production at Irvine Barclay Theatre (Dec. 7-8, 14-15, 20-24).

  • Illuminate Irvine: Celebrate with winter-themed activities, holiday music, and tree lighting at Great Park (Dec. 7, 3:00 p.m.).

Irvine Traffic Enforcement Cracks Down on Speeding and Distracted Driving Near Schools

On Thursday morning, the Traffic Bureau conducted High Visibility Enforcement (HVE) near Irvine High School, Venado, Deerfield, Greentree, and College Park Elementary, focusing on speeding, bicycle violations, and road obstructions. Officers issued 30 citations, gave multiple warnings, and noted many drivers still using cell phones while driving. Avoid texting and driving to ensure safety—and to avoid meeting one of Irvine's traffic officers!

Experience the Art of the Spanish Guitar with Mak Grgić and Pacific Symphony, Dec. 5–7


Experience the “Art of the Spanish Guitar” with GRAMMY®-nominated guitarist Mak Grgić in his Pacific Symphony debut, featuring Rodrigo’s “Fantasy for a Gentleman” and Dvořák’s Symphony No. 8, conducted by Rune Bergmann. Catch this unforgettable performance Dec. 5–7 at the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall.

Cool Japan Center Opens in Irvine, Showcasing Japanese Culture and Art

The Cool Japan Center opened on Nov. 4 in Irvine with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The cultural hub celebrates Japanese heritage through art, anime, manga, fashion, technology, and cuisine. A pre-opening event on Nov. 2 featured awards recognizing contributions to U.S.-Japan relations, including recipients like Chef Ben Ford and organizations such as Crunchyroll and Square Enix. Highlights included traditional performances, calligraphy, and Japanese wine and pastry tastings. The first U.S. gallery in the Akademeia Creative network, the center will host exhibitions, workshops, and events, with its public gallery opening on Jan. 15, 2025, at 4199 Campus Dr., Suite A, Irvine, CA. Visit cooljapancenter.org for details.

Skate, Dance, and Shine: Glide & Groove at Irvine Spectrum

Experience "Glide & Groove" ice skating at the Irvine Spectrum Center on Friday and Saturday nights, available during select evening sessions this winter season. Skate under the stars while a live DJ sets the mood with upbeat music, creating an electrifying and fun-filled atmosphere. Perfect for a memorable night out with friends or family

Comprehensive Care for Persistent Coughs in Orange County

Family Care Centers (FCCMG) offers fast, affordable treatment for persistent coughs at locations in Irvine-Woodbridge, Fountain Valley, and Costa Mesa. Open daily, their facilities provide comprehensive evaluations, in-house labs, and personalized treatment plans.

  • Common causes of persistent coughs include postnasal drip, asthma, acid reflux, smoking, and infections like pneumonia.

  • If your cough lasts over two weeks or includes symptoms like fever, wheezing, or blood, seek medical help.

  • FCCMG treatments include inhalers, antibiotics, acid blockers, and more, with referrals to specialists for severe cases. Visit for prompt care and relief.

IRC and OCWR Team Up: Compost and Mulch Donation Revitalizes Native Seed Farm

The Irvine Ranch Conservancy (IRC) has partnered with OC Waste & Recycling (OCWR) for over a decade to support habitat restoration in Orange County. Recently, OCWR donated 550 cubic yards of compost and 250 cubic yards of mulch to IRC's Native Seed Farm. The compost, incorporated into planting areas, enhances soil health, reduces compaction, and boosts yields, while mulch helps suppress weeds and retain moisture. This effort addresses declining seed yields and poor soil conditions, with IRC now planting nine species of wildflowers, including fire-following varieties. OCWR’s composting program, which creates pathogen-free material ideal for restoration, is also available free to the public at their Irvine and San Juan Capistrano facilities.

Hot Chocolate, Paintbrushes, and Fun: Don’t Miss Teen/Tween Craft Hour

Teens and tweens are invited to join the Teen/Tween Craft - Paint and Snack event for an hour of creative fun! Enjoy painting while sipping on hot chocolate in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. This event, open to ages 12 and up, will be held on Sunday, December 8, from 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM at Irvine Heritage Park Library. Don’t miss this chance to relax, get creative, and connect with friends.

Upcoming Northwood High School’s Music Calendar

  1. Wed, December 4-5, 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

Meet Mystic: A Sweet and Independent Cat Ready for Her Forever Home

Meet Mystic, a sweet and affectionate cat who’s a little shy at first but warms up quickly. She enjoys a balance of independence and companionship, thriving in a calm home with individuals over 8 years old. Mystic is a steady sidekick who loves attention but is content with solitude too. Ready to be her lifelong friend? Learn about adoption at cityofirvine.org/animals.

See video

UC Irvine Men’s Basketball Shatters Records in Thrilling Victory Over Weber State

UC Irvine defeated Weber State 93-87, led by center Bent Leuchten’s 29 points, 11 rebounds, and three blocks. Guard Justin Hohn added 21 points and six assists, while forward Devin Tillis had a perfect shooting night with 15 points and 11 rebounds. The Anteaters excelled at the free-throw line (22-27, 81.5%) and out-rebounded the Wildcats 41-31. A decisive 12-0 late-game run helped secure the win, despite Weber State’s strong three-point shooting (13-25). UCI’s win marked their first-ever victory over Weber State and moved them to 5-1 this season. Up next, the Anteaters compete in the Western Slam MTE in Alberta (Nov. 28-30).

UCI Anteaters Upcoming Home Games

Women's Volleyball

  1. Wed, Nov 27: vs First Round TBA (Big West Championship)

  2. Fri, Nov 29: vs Semifinals TBA (Big West Championship)

  3. Sat, Nov 30: vs Championship TBA (Big West Championship)

IVC Men’s Soccer Wraps 2024 Season with Four All-Conference Honors

Irvine Valley's men's soccer team wrapped up the 2024 season with an 8-12-1 overall record and a 6-7-1 mark in the Orange Empire Conference, narrowly losing nine matches by one goal. Four players earned all-conference honors: Luke Newman and Isaiah Ponce (1st Team), and Mason Tracey and Cristian Sanchez (2nd Team). Newman led the conference in assists (9) and ranked third in points (25), scoring eight goals, including four game-winners. Ponce was a reliable holding midfielder, starting 16 games. Freshman Tracey tallied four goals and five assists, while Sanchez contributed two goals and an assist across 13 starts. Coach Conor Ward praised the team’s effort all season.

🏐⚽🏀 Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS 

Men’s Basketball

  1. Wed, Nov 27: vs El Camino, 5:00 PM

Portola Football Defeats Baldwin Park 30-14, Advances to First CIF Title Game

Portola High School’s football team continued its remarkable season with a 30-14 victory over Baldwin Park in the CIF Division 11 semifinals, advancing to their first-ever championship game since starting varsity football in 2018. The Bulldogs, led by standout performances from quarterback Nash Luper, running back Diego Reyna, and defensive powerhouse Adam Nofal, displayed a balanced team effort. Luper threw two touchdown passes, including a 67-yard strike to Malachi Moore, while Reyna rushed for 132 yards and sealed the win with a late TD. Nofal dominated defensively with four sacks, breaking the school record. Kicker Ishaan Kedia contributed three crucial field goals. Portola overcame an early deficit and relentless pressure from Baldwin Park’s Aldo Hernandez and Jake Garcia. Coach Peter Abe praised the team’s resilience and legacy-building, as they now prepare to host El Rancho in the CIF finals.

High School Athletics Calendar

** Updated With November Schedule

Upcoming Irvine High School’s Varsity home games:

November 2024  

Monday, December 2

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

  • 07:00 PM: Basketball, Boys VR vs. Santa Ana at Irvine High School Game Gym

Wednesday, December 4

  • 04:00 PM: Water Polo, Girls VR vs. Canyon (Anaheim) at Woolett Pool

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 Public’s Help to Identify Suspected Package Thief

Irvine Police seek help identifying a suspected package thief who intercepted a MacBook Pro delivery at a Northwood residence on Monday, November 18, possibly using a fake ID. If you have any information, email [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

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