Community Link Newsletter: August 15-22, 2024

Read City News and Sign up for Classes

Read the fall edition of Inside Irvine for the latest information on City news and activities.

In this issue, you can learn how to join us in celebrating the beauty and richness of Irvine's diverse community by attending the City's fall festivals in September and October. Plus, read about Irvine's park system ranking among the best nationally for the ninth consecutive year, and learn how the City is integrating artificial intelligence into emergency preparedness efforts.

Browse all programs and events available for kids and adults this season in the fall Activity Guide. Registration for classes opens August 15. Learn more at insideirvine.org. 

Enjoy Live Music in Irvine

Join us this weekend for our final Summer in the City concerts. Kicking off the weekend of music is DW3, a R&B, Soul, and Old School Funk band that will play Saturday, August 17, at 5:30 p.m. at Mike Ward Community Park — Woodbridge. Bring picnic-style treats or purchase snacks from gourmet food trucks. 

If you prefer a different genre of music, head over to Great Park Live Sunday, August 18, for a free outdoor concert featuring the Pacific Symphony. Symphony in the Cities attendees can enjoy family-friendly activities beginning at 5:30 p.m., followed by the concert at 7 p.m. 

Visit cityofirvine.org/summer for more information. 

Show off your Pet and Raise Funds

There is still time to show off your pet in the Irvine Animal Care Center's annual Photo Fundraiser. Submit your favorite photo of your pet online and invite your family and friends to vote for your photos.

Eligible photos with at least five votes at the end of the contest will be included in the 2025 Irvine Animal Care Center wall calendar. The top 13 winners will have their pets featured in a full-page photo in the calendar. 

All proceeds help provide top-tier care and life-saving programs at the center. Learn more at irvineanimals.org/photofundraiser. 

Enjoy Food and Fun at the Great Park 

Do you visit the Great Park on the weekends? If so, visit The Layover — the Great Park's new eatery, where you can grab a bite to eat and enjoy refreshing beverages and free family activities. 

Open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on weekends, this reimagined food and beverage location is conveniently located at the Terraced Lawn, within the Great Park Sports Complex. The Layover will offer more food and beverage options for those attending concerts and events at Great Park Live, a sporting event at the Sports Complex, or just exploring the Great Park. 

Learn more at cityofirvine.org/thelayover. 

Serve our Families and Children

The City of Irvine is accepting applications for two volunteer parent/guardian positions on the Irvine Child Care Committee.

The Irvine Child Care Committee acts in an advisory capacity to the Community Services Commission by providing input on the needs of families and children in Irvine and child care-related issues.

Applicants must be the parent or guardian of a child younger than 12 years old at the time of the application submittal and be willing to commit to a two-year term of active service from January 2025 through December 2026. Learn more at cityofirvine.org/childcare. Applications are due Thursday, August 29, at 5 p.m. 

This Week in DE&I

There are many cultural and religious holidays celebrated and recognized throughout our community this month. Learn about some of the significant dates being observed in Irvine below and on our DE&I calendar.

August 15: National Liberation Day of Korea/Victory Over Japan Day:
This day commemorates the liberation of Korea from Japanese rule in 1945. While Korea has been an independent nation for centuries, it was invaded multiple times, the last being the period of Japanese rule. The day the United States and Allied powers helped liberate Korea from 35 years of Japanese rule became known as Victory Over Japan Day. It took three years after Korea became independent in 1945 for the nation to establish the Republic of Korea. 

Upcoming Meetings & Events

Saturdays and Sundays, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Great Park's New Eatery: The Layover