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Celebrate America 250 with Family-Friendly Activities Throughout July
Join the City of Irvine as it celebrates America 250 with a monthlong lineup of family-friendly events and activities honoring the nation’s 250th anniversary. From patriotic crafts and library programs to outdoor experiences and educational exhibits, residents of all ages are invited to take part in commemorative activities throughout the community.
Highlights include Independence Day Bingo for adults ages 50 and older June 30 at Lakeview Senior Center; special story times and crafts July 1 at Heritage Park, Katie Wheeler, and University Park Libraries; and a Sparkle & Shine Bracelet Station July 13 at Northwood Community Center. Additional programs throughout the month include pioneer history presentations, a colonial textile weaving activity, a quill pen craft at the Great Park, and a Wilderness Access Day photo opportunity at Bommer Canyon Preserve.
Ongoing activities include a USA Birthday Scavenger Hunt at Irvine Public Library locations, a Park & Recreation Month passport adventure at community parks, facilities, and libraries, an America 250 exhibition at Irvine Civic Center, and the annual Field of Valor display featuring 250 American flags on the Irvine Civic Center Lawn.
View the complete schedule and learn more at cityofirvine.gov/america250.
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Summer in the City Continues with Movies and Music
Enjoy free, family-friendly entertainment during the City of Irvine's Summer in the City series. Catch Disney's Lilo & Stitch (2025) Friday, June 26, at Hicks Canyon Community Park. Food trucks open at 6:30 p.m., and the movie begins after sunset.
Then, Saturday, June 27, rock out with 4 Lads from Liverpool, a Beatles tribute band, at Mike Ward Community Park — Woodbridge. Concerts begin at 5:30 p.m.
Guests are encouraged to bring low-back chairs, blankets, and picnic-style treats, or purchase refreshments from on-site food trucks. All events are free, with no tickets or registration required.
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Discover Irvine this Park & Recreation Month
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Celebrate National Park & Recreation Month by exploring Irvine with the free City of Irvine Park & Recreation Field Guide, presented by Hoag. Beginning July 1, pick up your guide at any Irvine Public Library branch and complete fun challenges at parks, community centers, libraries, and other destinations throughout the City.
Collect stamps as you explore to earn prizes, including an exclusive 2026 Park & Recreation Month America 250 commemorative enamel pin while supplies last.
Pick up your Field Guide beginning July 1. View details online.
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Gateway Village Breaks Ground in North Irvine
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The City of Irvine and Brookfield Residential celebrated the groundbreaking of Gateway Village, marking a major milestone in the Gateway Project, which will bring new housing opportunities and expanded open space to North Irvine.
Located at Portola Parkway and Jeffrey Road, the 70-acre residential village will feature six neighborhoods with 1,138 homes, parks, and recreational amenities. The broader project also includes the 700-acre Gateway Preserve, with nearly 10 miles of new hiking and biking trails, and an extension of the Jeffrey Open Space Trail
Gateway Village will include 287 affordable apartment homes, representing 25% of the total housing supply, with the remaining homes offered for sale. Community and open space features are expected to open in early 2028.
View photos from the groundbreaking.
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Celebrate Safely This Fourth of July
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As Independence Day approaches, the Orange County Fire Authority reminds residents that the safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a State Fire Marshal-approved public display conducted by trained professionals. Fireworks cause thousands of injuries and fires nationwide each year.
Residents are reminded that all fireworks, including Safe and Sane fireworks, are illegal in the City of Irvine. Possession, sale, or use of fireworks within city limits is prohibited.
There will not be a public fireworks show at the Great Park this year. For fireworks safety tips, a list of public fireworks displays in Orange County, and information available in multiple languages, visit ocfa.org/fourthofjuly.
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Built for movement. Designed for discovery. Experience City of Irvine summer camps.
iCamps are built for kids who want to stay active, get creative, and try something new every day. From hands-on projects to games, sports, and group challenges, each day is designed to keep kids engaged and learning through play.
Choose from full-day or half-day options designed for flexible summer schedules.
Eco Explorers at Bommer Canyon takes summer outdoors with weekly hikes across Orange County trails and hands-on exploration in the City's expansive open space network.
Give your child a summer designed for curiosity and play.
Learn more and sign up at yourirvine.org.
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Watch the World Cup at Great Park Live
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June 27: Helen Keller Day
Helen Keller Day is observed annually June 27 in honor of author, lecturer, and disability rights advocate Helen Keller. Born in Tuscumbia, Alabama, Keller lost her sight and hearing following an illness at 19 months old. Through determination and education, she became an influential writer, speaker, and advocate whose work helped advance opportunities and accessibility for people with disabilities. The observance commemorates her birthday and recognizes her enduring legacy of perseverance, inclusion, and advocacy.
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