• Irvine Insider
  • Posts
  • Valentine’s Week Fun for Couples & Families at Tanaka Farms

Valentine’s Week Fun for Couples & Families at Tanaka Farms

Issue # 0567

Author

Joshua Tjia
11 Feb

In this Irvine Insider Issue . . .

😁 Laugh of the Day

🌤️ Irvine Weather

🏫💵 IVC Foundation Receives $50,000 Gift for Teacher Preparation Pathway

🛠️📚 Tools, Guitars & Games: Discover Irvine Library’s Library of Things

🌾❤️🐓 Valentine’s Week Fun for Couples & Families at Tanaka Farms

🥭🧋🍊 From Mango Pomelo Sago to Milk Teas, Auntea Jenny’s Opens Its Irvine Location

🚌📝 IUSD Early College Program Offers 8th Graders a Head Start on College Credits

🧧🥟 Healthy Bites for Lunar New Year: Meaningful Dishes With Tradition

🌱🧤 Help Plant Native Seedlings at Quail Hill on Feb. 13

🖌️🎨 Explore Early 20th-Century California Art at UC Irvine Langson Museum

🎼🎼 Upcoming High School Music Calendar

🐈 Preparing Your Cat for a Calm and Safe Trip to the Veterinarian

🏃🏻‍♀️ UCI's Halle Sutherland Named MPSF Women’s Indoor Track & Field Athlete of the Week

🏀🏐🎾⚽️ UCI Anteaters Upcoming Home Games

🏀🏀 Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS

🏈🎾 High School Athletics Calendar

🍏🥭🍑 Local Farmers Markets

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

📅📅 Lots of Local Events

📞💡 Useful Contact Information

What did the octopus say to his valentine?

I want to hold your hand, hand, hand, hand, hand, hand, hand, and hand.

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

IVC Foundation Receives $50,000 Gift for Teacher Preparation Pathway

The Irvine Valley College Foundation received a $50,000 donation from Irvine Company to support the college’s Teacher Preparation Pathway, which helps students transition from community college into the teaching profession. The funding is intended to reduce financial barriers, expand hands-on and work-based learning opportunities, and strengthen program infrastructure, including $10,000 designated to establish a Teacher Preparation Funding Program for ongoing support.

Read more here

Tools, Guitars & Games: Discover Irvine Library’s Library of Things

Irvine Public Library’s Library of Things lets you borrow more than just books — including bicycle repair tools, musical instruments, games, and craft kits — all with a library card. It’s an easy way to try new hobbies, tackle projects, and save money and space without buying items you’ll only use occasionally.

Visit your local branch or browse online to see what’s available at cityofirvine.org/library.

Valentine’s Week Fun for Couples & Families at Tanaka Farms

From date nights to family fun and sweet treats, Tanaka Farms is celebrating Valentine’s Week with farm-fresh experiences in Irvine.

Happening at the Farm:

  • Valentine’s Day Dinner – Feb 14 | 6–9 p.m.
    Adults-only farm-to-table dinner with live music, a tractor ride, and barnyard time.

  • Breakfast at the Farm – Starts Feb 14 | 7:30–10 a.m.
    Fresh breakfast, tractor rides, and barnyard visits—perfect for a cozy morning.

  • Strawberry Picking Tours – Feb 12–15
    Pick sweet, in-season strawberries.

  • Chocolate-Covered Strawberries – Pickup Feb 13–14
    A classic Valentine’s treat, freshly made and ready to take home.

🍓 Plan ahead at TanakaFarms.com

From Mango Pomelo Sago to Milk Teas, Auntea Jenny’s Opens Its Irvine Location

Auntea Jenny, an internationally known tea brand, has officially opened its first Orange County location in Irvine at 14130 Culver Dr (near Tokyo Central).

  • Known for fresh fruit teas and milk teas that highlight real tea flavors, the shop is having its ribbon-cutting today, Feb. 11.

  • To celebrate, they’re offering a BOGO deal from Friday, Feb. 13 through Sunday, Feb. 15, featuring favorites like Classic Mango Pomelo Sago, Strawberry Green Tea Daifuku, and Taro Boba Milk Tea.

IUSD Early College Program Offers 8th Graders a Head Start on College Credits

IUSD’s Early College Program, in partnership with Irvine Valley College, allows academically qualified students to earn up to two years of transferable college credit while completing high school.

  • Open to current 8th graders entering any IUSD high school, the four-year program features mostly virtual coursework and pathways to UC/CSU transfer, IGETC certification, or an associate’s degree.

  • A Parent and Student Information Meeting will be held via Zoom on March 12 at 6 p.m., with more details at ivasecondary.iusd.org/ECP.

Healthy Bites for Lunar New Year: Meaningful Dishes With Tradition

Lunar New Year is a time to welcome health and prosperity through meaningful traditions—especially food. Many classic dishes symbolize abundance, longevity, and fresh beginnings, and UCI Health chefs and dietitians have given these favorites a light, nutritious spin.

Recipes:

  • 🥟 Vegetarian Dumplings: A Lunar New Year staple symbolizing wealth and prosperity, these dumplings are filled with cabbage, mushrooms, and tofu, offering a lighter, fiber-rich, plant-based twist on the classic gold-ingot–shaped favorite.

  • 🍲 Vegetarian Rice Cake Soup (Tteokguk): Traditionally eaten on Korean New Year, this clear vegetable broth with coin-shaped rice cakes represents a fresh start and a prosperous year, with added nourishment from cabbage, carrots, mushrooms, and mineral-rich nori.

  • 🥜 Peanut Cookies: A beloved Lunar New Year treat across Southeast Asia, these soft, nutty cookies symbolize luck and sharing, made with peanut butter to add protein, fiber, and heart-healthy nutrients.

Find recipes here

Help Plant Native Seedlings at Quail Hill on Feb. 13

Join a Quail Hill stewardship planting day on Friday, Feb. 13, from 9–12 p.m. and help plant native seedlings along the Quail Hill Loop. No experience needed—just register in advance, bring water, wear closed-toe shoes, and be ready for a beginner-friendly morning giving back to nature.

Explore Early 20th-Century California Art at UC Irvine Langson Museum

At Home in Sunlight: A State in Motion, 1897–1940 is on view Jan. 31–May 16, at the UC Irvine Langson Museum Interim Gallery. The exhibition presents artworks from the museum’s collection that explore how artists documented California’s changing landscapes, cities, and social life during a period of rapid growth.

Upcoming Northwood High School’s Music Calendar

  1. February 11-14: Musical -Mean Girls, NHS Theater

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

Upcoming Woodbridge High School's Music Calendar

No further events scheduled for this month.

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

Upcoming Woodbridge High School’s Vocal Music Calendar

  1. February 26-28, TBD: Cinderella, WHS Performing Arts Center

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

Upcoming Irvine High Choral’s Music Calendar

  1. February 21: CSUF SSAA Festival, CSU-Fullerton

  2. February 25-28, 7:00 PM: Seussical, IHS PAC

For the latest updates or additional details, please visit https://www.ihschoralmusic.org/calendar.html 

Upcoming Portola High School Music’s Calendar

No further events scheduled for this month.

For the latest updates or additional details, please visit https://www.phsmusicbooster.org/buy-ticket

Preparing Your Cat for a Calm and Safe Trip to the Veterinarian

Vet visits are a normal part of keeping your cat healthy, but they can be stressful if your cat isn’t prepared. Starting early and using simple, consistent strategies can help reduce fear, anxiety, and resistance over time.

Tips:

  • Use a proper carrier: Choose a sturdy carrier that opens from the top or front; removable tops make exams easier and help your cat feel secure.

  • Make the carrier familiar: Leave it out at home year-round with a soft blanket, treats, or toys so it becomes a safe, cozy space.

  • Practice positive associations: Feed treats or let your cat nap in the carrier regularly to build comfort.

  • Stay calm during loading: If your cat hesitates, gently guide them in or place them inside with the carrier top removed.

  • Reduce panic if needed: Wrap your cat in a familiar towel or blanket and place them into the carrier calmly and quickly.

  • Use calming aids: Spray synthetic pheromones on bedding and in the car about 15 minutes before travel.

  • Ask your vet about medications: Calming supplements or medications can significantly reduce stress with minimal side effects.

UCI's Halle Sutherland Named MPSF Women’s Indoor Track & Field Athlete of the Week

UC Irvine junior Halle Sutherland was named MPSF Women’s Indoor Track & Field Athlete of the Week after breaking an eight-year-old school record in the 200m with a personal-best 24.12 at the Wolf Pack Classic. She also posted a season-best 7.51 in the 60m and will compete next at the Battle Born Classic in Reno on Feb. 13–14.

UCI Anteaters Upcoming Home Games

Men’s Volleyball

  • Wed, Feb 11 – vs USC, 6:00 PM

Women’s Basketball

  • Thu, Feb 12 – vs Cal Poly, 6:00 PM

Men’s Basketball

  • Sat, Feb 14 – vs Cal State Fullerton, 7:00 PM

Women’s Water Polo

  • Fri, Feb 13 – vs Stanford, 12:00 PM

  • Sat, Feb 14 – vs Barbara Kalbus Invitational, TBA

  • Sun, Feb 15 – vs Barbara Kalbus Invitational, TBA

🏐⚽🏀 Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS 

Women's Basketball

  • Thu, Feb 12 - vs Orange Coast, 7:00 PM

Men’s Volleyball

  • Fri, Feb 13 - vs El Camino, 6:00 PM

High School Athletics Calendar

**

Updated With February Schedule

Upcoming Irvine High School’s Varsity home games:

February 2026

Wednesday, February 11

  • Beach Volleyball, Girls - 3:30 PM vs Montebello

Thursday, February 12

  • Beach Volleyball, Girls - 3:30 PM vs Esperanza

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

February 12 Free Grocery Food Box 9 AM - 12 PM

February 14 Hide & Squeak 6th Anniversary 11 AM - 2 PM

February 14 - 15 Modern Makers Mart: Woodbury Town Center 10 AM - 4 PM

February 15 America 250 3 PM

February 19 - 21 UCI Dance Visions 2026

February 21 IUSD Recycling Event 9 AM - 12 PM

February 21 IRWD Community Tour 10 AM - 2 PM

February 21 Lunar New Year 8 PM

February 26 - 28 From Mozart to Mahler 8 PM

February 28 Peter and the Wolf

We could use your help

We’ve got big plans as we get up to speed! But we need your help!

One huge way that you can help us is to spread the word for us.

Know somebody who lives in the Irvine and surrounding areas and would benefit from being kept in the know?

Please share Irvine Insider with them! It’s simple!