The City of Irvine is celebrating moms with three different Mother’s Day events this year, ranging from an artsy night out at the Orange County Great Park to an adventurous morning exploring the Irvine Open Space Preserve.

Mother’s Day Dessert and Paint Night is a unique opportunity to spend time with Mom riding the iconic Great Park Balloon, enjoying a special dessert, and taking a painting class at the Artist Studios. Kids 5 and older can bring Mom on Saturday, May 13, or Sunday, May 14, from 3 to 5 p.m.; children 12 and older can join the fun Saturday, May 13, from 7 to 9 p.m. Price is $44 per child ages 5-18 and $54 per adult. Advanced registration is required by Wednesday, May 10. In the event of inclement weather, a balloon ride voucher will be provided. The Great Park is located at Sand Canyon and Marine Way. For more information or to register, visit ocgp.org.

On Sunday, May 7, dress in princess or tea party attire for Mother’s Day Princess “Tea” at Northwood Community Park. Children ages 2.5-12 can bring their moms, grandmas, aunts or special friends to enjoy breakfast, crafts, vocal performances, and story time while interacting with princesses from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Prices range from $15 to $20. Northwood Community Park is located at 4531 Bryan Ave. Registration is required; visit irvinequickreg.com to sign up. 

If your mom loves the outdoors, bring her and the whole family to Wilderness Access Day in Bommer Canyon on Saturday, May 20. Hikers, mountain bikers and equestrians can explore the vast, beautiful Irvine Open Space Preserve on designated trails open for self-guided access 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Registration is recommended. The Bommer Canyon trailhead is located at 6400 Shady Canyon Drive. Visit letsgooutside.org/explore/iosp for more information and to register.