Celebrate the most wonderful time of year with family-friendly festivities that will make your days merry and bright. From writing letters to Santa to tree-lighting magic at Illuminate Irvine and a magical ride aboard the Metrolink Holiday Express Train, every celebration is an invitation to share in the wonder of the season.
Irvine 2/11 Marine Adoption Committee Holiday Toy Drive (Open in new window)
November 1–December 12
Drive-thru Drop-off at Irvine Civic Center: December 6, 9 a.m.–Noon | December 12, 9 a.m.–Noon
Make the season brighter for Irvine’s adopted 2/11 Marine Battalion families and donate a new, unwrapped gift for infants or children ages 12 and younger. Drop off during normal business hours at Irvine City Hall, Irvine Police Department, and the Great Park Visitors Center.
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Holiday Faire (Open in new window)
November 7, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Great Park Palm Court Arts Complex
Step into a holiday marketplace at the Arts in Irvine Holiday Faire! Explore handcrafted gifts, artisanal treasures, and one-of-a-kind creations from local makers. Enjoy lively holiday tunes, discover something special for everyone on your list, and experience a day full of festivity.
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Letters to Santa (Open in new window)
November 24–December 12
Make your wish come true this holiday — send Santa a letter with all you want for Christmas. Letters can be dropped off at Northwood Community Center, Portola Springs Community Center (Open in new window), and Turtle Rock Community Center (Open in new window). Santa will send a reply within one week. Replies can be picked up at the designated holiday mailboxes at each participating center.
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Illuminate Irvine (Open in new window)
December 5, 3–8 p.m.
Great Park Palm Court Arts Complex
Step into a sparkling wonderland as Illuminate Irvine returns to light up the night. Capture festive photo ops, carol along to holiday classics, and enjoy merry-making moments for the whole family. The highlight of the evening will be the lighting of the Holiday Tree and Great Park Palm Court, adorned with thousands of radiant, glistening lights.
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Holidayz at the Park (Open in new window)
December 5–January 3, 2027
Great Park Palm Court Arts Complex
‘Twas the start of the Holidayz, and the Great Park came alive with festive sparkle and lights. Walk through a wonderland full of brilliant light displays, snap photos among glowing backdrops, and spot a few playful surprises.
