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Top Things to Do in Irvine: Trails, Dining, Family Fun, Sports, and Must-Visit Attractions

Issue # 0320

Author

Joshua Tjia
10 Jan

In this Irvine Insider Issue . . .

😁 Laugh Of The Day

🌤️ Irvine Weather

⚠️💨 Staying Safe Together: Stay Prepared for Wildfire Risks and Power Outages

🔥🚒 Essential Supplies Needed for Wildfire Victims – Donation Drive at Tanaka Farms

🏃🏻‍♀️🌳🍱 Top Things to Do in Irvine: Trails, Dining, Family Fun, Sports, and Must-Visit Attractions

📖📚Create Mini Bookshelves at Teen/Tween Craft Workshop in Irvine

😷 Fast and Effective Sore Throat & Strep Throat Treatment in Orange County

🌿🧤 Restore Nature at Peters Canyon: Volunteer for Habitat Improvement on Jan 11

🖼️ Discover the Stories Behind the Art: Free Events at Irvine Fine Arts Center

🎼🎼 Upcoming High School Music Calendar

🐕🐩 Free Adoptions for Seniors: Meet Your New Best Friend

🏐 UC Irvine Men's Volleyball Sweeps Menlo 3-0; Henno Becomes All-Time Ace Leader

🏀🏐🎾⚾ UCI Anteaters Upcoming Home Games

🏀 IVC Men’s Basketball Stuns No. 8 Santiago Canyon with Season-High 93 Points

🏀🏀 Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS

🏀 Crean Lutheran and Mater Dei Girls Basketball Teams Shine in Rancho Cucamonga and Kiernan Classics

🏈🎾 High School Athletics Calendar

🚓🛒 Irvine Police Arrest Suspected Shoplifter After Skateboard Escape Attempt

🍏🥭🍑 Local Farmers Markets

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

📅📅 Lots of Local Events

📞💡 Useful Contact Information

What do you call a cow that’s out of this world?

An animal in udder space.

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

Staying Safe Together: Stay Prepared for Wildfire Risks and Power Outages

A Red Flag Warning has been in effect across much of Southern California from Tuesday, January 7, at 1 p.m. through Friday, January 10, at 6 p.m., due to high fire risk caused by warm temperatures, low humidity, and strong winds.

  • Southern California Edison (SCE) may implement Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) to reduce wildfire risks by proactively shutting off power in elevated weather conditions.

  • Residents in high fire risk areas are most likely to be impacted, but interconnected grids may affect others.

  • To stay safe during outages, unplug electronics, keep phones charged, use battery-powered radios for updates, and avoid opening refrigerators.

  • Never touch downed power lines; call 911 immediately.

  • For more safety tips, visit SCE’s Prepare for an Outage site or the Orange County Fire Authority website.

  • Report downed trees via the Access Irvine app or city helplines, and sign up for emergency alerts at AlertOC.org.

Essential Supplies Needed for Wildfire Victims – Donation Drive at Tanaka Farms

Tanaka Farms in Irvine is hosting a donation drive this Saturday, January 11th, from 9:30 AM to 5 PM to support those affected by recent wildfires, in partnership with @thelamission. Urgent needs include:

  • water

  • hygiene kits (N-95 masks, toiletries, etc.)

  • blankets and tarps

  • non-perishable food

  • new/gently used clothing (including socks and cold-weather gear).

Your donations can help provide comfort and safety to those in crisis.Share to spread the word!

Top Things to Do in Irvine: Trails, Dining, Family Fun, Sports, and Must-Visit Attractions

Whether you’re new to Irvine or a long-time resident, there’s always something exciting to explore. From scenic trails to diverse dining options and family-friendly activities, here are some of the top things to do in and around the community:

  • Hiking Trails

    • Jeffrey Open Space Trail: Perfect for walking, running, and biking. Join Run OC every Wednesday at 6 PM.

    • Quail Hill Trailhead: A 2-mile loop off Sand Canyon.

    • Bosque Trail (Great Park): Runs through most of the Great Park.

    • Peter’s Canyon Regional Park: Great for longer hikes, just over the Irvine border.

  • Diverse Restaurants

    • Oliver’s Trattoria (Italian)

    • All That Korean BBQ

    • Cha Cha’s Latin Kitchen

    • Aria Kitchen (Mediterranean/Mexican Fusion)

    • Izakaya Osen (Sushi)

    • Postino (Italian/Wine Bar)

  • Library Events for Kids

    • Visit Irvine’s libraries (Heritage Park, University Park, Katie Wheeler) for free weekly kid-friendly events.

  • Sports and Recreation

    • Facilities for pickleball, tennis, golf, soccer, and more.

  • Additional Favorites

    • Ride the train at Irvine Park Railroad.

    • Visit Tanaka Farms.

    • Shop and dine at Irvine Spectrum.

    • Watch movies at local theaters (Irvine Spectrum, University Center, Woodbridge, The District, Tustin Marketplace).

Explore these gems and make the most of what Irvine has to offer!

Create Mini Bookshelves at Teen/Tween Craft Workshop in Irvine

Join a fun crafting session to create mini bookshelves, perfect for teens and tweens! The event takes place on Sunday, January 12, from 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM at Irvine Heritage Park Library. This hands-on workshop is open to ages 12-17 and is part of the Crafts & DIY series.

Fast and Effective Sore Throat & Strep Throat Treatment in Orange County

A sore throat can be uncomfortable and disruptive, but the right treatment can bring quick relief.

  • For viral infections, which often resolve within a week, simple remedies like staying hydrated, gargling with warm salt water, and using throat lozenges can ease symptoms. Over-the-counter pain relievers and soothing teas may also help.

  • However, persistent or severe sore throats may signal a bacterial infection like strep throat, requiring medical care. Orange County urgent care centers offer rapid strep tests and throat cultures for accurate diagnosis. When needed, antibiotics are prescribed to treat the infection, alleviate discomfort, and prevent complications, ensuring a faster recovery.

Restore Nature at Peters Canyon: Volunteer for Habitat Improvement on Jan 11

Join OC Parks for Restoration Day on Saturday, January 11, from 7:30 AM to 9:30 AM, starting at the Peters Canyon parking lot. Volunteers will help improve native habitats by weeding, watering, or planting as needed.

  • Bring gardening gloves, water, snacks, sun protection, and clothes suitable for getting dirty.

  • This free program includes parking passes for volunteers and requires a moderate hike to the restoration site with tools.

  • Advance registration is required, and the minimum age to participate is 10.

  • For questions, contact resource specialist Shelly Marshall at (714) 973-6625 or [email protected].

Discover the Stories Behind the Art: Free Events at Irvine Fine Arts Center

Engage with the artists behind the exhibitions at Irvine Fine Arts Center! On Saturday, January 11, at 3 p.m., join Ann Phong and Gloria Gem Sánchez for a walkthrough of For Me and You, exploring themes of culture, environment, and personal narratives.

On Saturday, January 18, at 2 p.m., hear Randi Hokett, Zara Kuredjian, and Patricia Liverman discuss their creative processes and the themes of End as Beginning.

Both events are free, no RSVP required, with exhibitions on view through January 25. More info at cityofirvine.org/arts.

Upcoming Northwood High School’s Music Calendar

No events scheduled for January.

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

Upcoming University High School's Choirs Calendar

  1. January 10, 7:00 PM-10:00 PM: Winter Show, Performing Arts Center

  2. January 23 - 24, 7:00 PM: Legends Concert, 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. January 10, 7:00 PM-10:00 PM: Winter Show, Performing Arts Center

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

Upcoming Woodbridge High School’s Vocal Music Calendar

  1. February 8: SCVA Vocal Jazz Festival, Saugus HS (Santa Clarita).

  2. February 27 - March 1: Shrek the Musical, 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. March 5-8, 7:00 PM: Mary Poppins Musical, Irvine Performing Arts Center.

  2. March 13, 6:30 PM: Festival Concert, Irvine Performing Arts Center.

  3. March 15, All Day: Irvine Jazz Festival, Irvine High School Campus.

  4. March 18, 7:00 PM: District Jazz Festival, Woodbridge HS Performing Arts Center.

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

Free Adoptions for Seniors: Meet Your New Best Friend

The Irvine Animal Care Center's Seniors Helping Seniors program waives adoption fees for individuals 62+ adopting senior pets, making it easier to find a loving companion.

  • Look for the green “senior” stamp on kennel cards to identify adoptable senior animals.

  • Visit from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. to meet pets like Sheera, Bella, and Peppermint.

  • More info: cityofirvine.org/animals.

UC Irvine Men's Volleyball Sweeps Menlo 3-0; Henno Becomes All-Time Ace Leader

No. 3 UC Irvine swept Menlo 3-0 (25-14, 25-10, 25-21) at the UCSB/Asics Invitational, led by a dominant service line performance with 14 aces. Reigning National Player of the Year Hilir Henno became UCI’s all-time ace leader with 185, surpassing Carson Clark. Henno also tallied nine kills and hit .500. Middle blocker Maxim Grigoriev matched Henno with four aces, hit .667 with seven kills, and tied for the team lead in blocks (4). UCI out-hit Menlo .431 to .048 and held an 8-2 blocking advantage. Six Anteaters recorded aces, and notable contributions came from Nolan Flexen (8 kills, .500 hitting, 6 digs), William D’Arcy (6 kills), and libero Shane Aitken (5 digs in his debut). UCI faces Tusculum next at the Invitational.

UCI Anteaters Upcoming Home Games

Women's Basketball

  1. Sat, Jan 11: vs UC San Diego, 2:00 PM

Men's Basketball

  1. Thu, Jan 16: vs Cal State Fullerton, 7:00 PM

  2. Sat, Jan 18: vs Cal Poly, 7:00 PM

IVC Men’s Basketball Stuns No. 8 Santiago Canyon with Season-High 93 Points

The Irvine Valley men’s basketball team secured its first Orange Empire Conference win with a 93-86 upset over No. 8-ranked Santiago Canyon, snapping their opponent's five-game win streak. The Lasers delivered a season-best performance, shooting 58.6% from the field and recording 17 assists on 34 field goals. Freshman Yanis Aldeguer led with 23 points, supported by Allen Moser’s 19 points and key free throws late in the game. IVC led by 20 points in the first half and held off Santiago Canyon’s comeback efforts. The Lasers next face Riverside.

🏐⚽🏀 Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS 

Men’s Basketball

  1. Fri, Jan 17: vs Saddleback, 6:00 PM

Men’s Baseball

  1. Fri, Jan 17: vs Mt. San Antonio (Scrimmage), 11:00 AM

Women’s Basketball

  1. Wed, Jan 15: vs Riverside, 6:00 PM

Crean Lutheran and Mater Dei Girls Basketball Teams Shine in Rancho Cucamonga and Kiernan Classics

Rancho Cucamonga Classic: Crean Lutheran (15-2) defeated Buena Park 69-62, led by Sydnee Norwood (25 points), Micaela Hanning (21 points), and Elise Randolph (8 points). They open Century League play Tuesday against El Dorado.

Kiernan Classic: Mater Dei (15-2) dominated Centennial 83-30, with Addie Deal earning MVP honors (22 points, 10 assists, 4 rebounds). Key contributions came from Kaeli Wynn (19 points), Lanie Stores (11 points), and Devyn Kiernan (10 points). Fairmont Prep beat Sage Hill 63-46, with Adyra Rajan as MVP. Sierra Canyon crushed Mission Hills 84-46, and Etiwanda routed Monache 65-26.

High School Athletics Calendar

** Updated With January Schedule

Upcoming Irvine High School’s Varsity home games:

January 2025

Friday, January 10

  • 5:00 PM - Girls' Soccer (VR) vs. Portola at Irvine High School Stadium

  • 5:30 PM - Girls' Basketball (VR) vs. Northwood at Irvine High School Game Gym

Saturday, January 11

  • 10:00 AM - Boys' Wrestling (VR) - Andrew Pena Classic at Irvine High School Game Gym

Tuesday, January 14

  • 5:30 PM - Girls' Basketball (VR) vs. Laguna Beach at Irvine High School Game Gym

Wednesday, January 15

  • 5:00 PM - Boys' Wrestling (VR) vs. Northwood at Irvine High School Game Gym

  • 5:00 PM - Girls' Wrestling (VR) vs. Northwood at Irvine High School Game Gym

Friday, January 17

  • 5:00 PM - Girls' Soccer (VR) vs. St. Margarets Episcopal at Irvine High School Stadium

  • 5:30 PM - Girls' Basketball (VR) vs. University at Irvine High School Game Gym

  • 7:00 PM - Boys' Basketball (VR) vs. Northwood at Irvine High School Game Gym

Irvine Police Arrest Suspected Shoplifter After Skateboard Escape Attempt

A man attempting to steal merchandise at the Spectrum Target in Irvine loaded the items into a stolen backpack and tried to escape on a skateboard. However, a swift response from the Spectrum team and Irvine Police led to his quick arrest. James Patrick Murphy, 40, of Costa Mesa, was taken into custody and booked at Orange County Jail for shoplifting, resisting arrest, and violating probation.

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

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