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Holiday Magic Returns to the Great Park at Illuminate Irvine
Experience the spirit of the season at Illuminate Irvine Saturday, December 6, from 3 to 8 p.m. at the Great Park Palm Court Arts Complex. Hosted by the City of Irvine, this free community celebration transforms the Palm Court into a winter wonderland filled with festive lights, music, and family-friendly activities.
Guests can enjoy live holiday music, seasonal décor, games, and hands-on crafts throughout the evening. A highlight of the event is the lighting of the Holiday Tree and the Palm Court Arts Complex with Santa and Mrs. Claus, bringing the community together to celebrate the season.
Children are invited to explore Tinsel Town, the elves’ whimsical village, featuring interactive surprises and photo opportunities. Additional activities include holiday-themed games and crafts for all ages.
Attendees are encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped gift for children ages 12 and younger in support of the Irvine 2/11 Marine Adoption Committee Holiday Toy Drive, helping brighten the holidays for local military families.
The celebration continues with Holidayz at the Park, a walkable outdoor light experience at the Palm Court. Visitors can stroll through illuminated displays, take festive photos, and capture memories in Santa’s sleigh. The display is open daily from dusk to 9 p.m., December 6 through January 4, 2026.
Parking and admission are free. The Great Park is located at 8000 Great Park Blvd. in Irvine. For more information, visit cityofirvine.org/holidayz or call 949-724-6600.
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Share Joy. Give Hope. Support the Irvine Animal Care Center Holiday Donation Drive
This holiday season, your generosity helps the Irvine Animal Care Center provide care and comfort to pets in need. Every day, animals arrive seeking safety, healing, and a second chance. Your support makes it possible to meet those needs with compassion and expertise.
Holiday Donation Drive contributions help provide:
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Essential medical care — Funding surgeries, urgent treatment, and ongoing veterinary support.
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New beginnings — Assisting animals transferred from overcrowded shelters in finding safe, loving homes.
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Foster care support — Providing nurturing, temporary homes for orphaned, injured, or vulnerable pets as they prepare for adoption.
Every gift helps give pets the opportunity to heal, grow, and begin a new chapter surrounded by care.
The Holiday Donation Drive runs through January 15, 2026.
For more information, visit irvineanimals.org/holidaydrive.
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2/11 Holiday Toy Drive: Brighten the Holidays for Marine Families
Help spread holiday cheer by donating to the City of Irvine’s annual Holiday Toy Drive, benefiting families of Irvine’s adopted 2/11 Marines. Now through December 13, the community is invited to donate new, unwrapped gifts for infants and children ages 12 and younger at convenient drop-off locations throughout the City.
Nine City facilities serve as drop-off locations. There are also two drive-thru drop-off events taking place Sunday, December 7, and Saturday, December 13, from 9 a.m. to noon at the Irvine Civic Center parking lot.
For a complete list of locations and additional information, visit cityofirvine.org/holidaytoydrive or call 949-724-6606.
Your donation will help bring joy to children and support local military families.
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Happy Thanksgiving
We’re grateful for our community that makes our City such a special place to live, work, and connect. By engaging in our events, enrolling in classes, and playing in our parks and facilities, you help drive a growing, thriving City forward. Thank you for your continued involvement and support throughout the year. Wishing you a holiday filled with gratitude and a great start to the season ahead.
As you celebrate this season of gratitude, please remember that City facilities will be closed Thursday, November 27, and Friday, November 28. For a full list of City closures, visit our website, cityofirvine.org.
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City of Irvine Wall of Recognition Nominations
The nomination period for the 2025 City of Irvine Wall of Recognition is underway now through December 30. Residents are invited to nominate an individual or organization that has made a lasting impact on the Irvine community. This honor celebrates those who helped shape the City’s beginnings and those who continue to build upon its foundation of excellence for future generations.
Nomination forms and criteria are available through Community & Library Services at Civic Center West, 17101 Armstrong Ave., or online at cityofirvine.org/publicrecognition.
Completed applications must be submitted or postmarked by 5 p.m. Tuesday, December 30.
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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.
November 27: Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on gratitude and gather with family and friends. Many celebrate with a traditional meal and moments of connection.
November 28: Native American Heritage Day
National Native American Heritage Day honors the rich cultures, histories, and contributions of American Indians and Indigenous communities.
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Upcoming Meetings & Events
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Road Construction and Capital Improvement Projects
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