Create. Listen. Explore. Discover Free Art Experiences at the Great Park
Arts at the Great Park is something you can hear, touch, and experience. This lineup of free, all-ages events encourages hands-on making, shared listening, and meaningful discovery — no tickets or registration required.
Jazz in the Palm Court
Sunday, January 25, 1–3 p.m. | Saturday, April 11, 1–3 p.m. | Sunday, May 17, 1–3 p.m.
Great Park Palm Court Arts Complex
The Great Park Palm Court Arts Complex presents a three-part live music series, Jazz in the Palm Court. Inspired by a diverse range of composers and musicians, this event echoes the rich traditions and wide stylistic spectrum of jazz — from the soulful sounds of blues and swing to the bold innovations of bebop and contemporary jazz. Bring folding chairs and blankets for seating around the Palm Court.
Orizomegami Workshop: Pattern & Color
Sunday, January 25, 1–3 p.m.
Great Park Studio
Discover the beauty of Orizomegami, the traditional Japanese art of fold-dyeing paper. Participants will fold, dip, and unfold sheets of paper to reveal vibrant, one-of-a-kind patterns that blend geometry and chance. This simple yet creative self-guided activity sets the stage for colorful expressions of balance and surprise. Transform paper into stunning kaleidoscopes of color at this free, fun for all ages event. No advance registration is needed.
Orange County Archives Bazaar: Beyond the Archive
Saturday, March 14, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
Hangar 244, Great Park Gallery, and Great Park Studio
Step into the living history of Southern California, where memory meets melody and fabric tells a story. Beyond the Archive celebrates the region’s rich cultural tapestry through the voices, sounds, and threads that have shaped it. Join us for exhibitions, presentations, and activities for all ages. This free educational event is presented by OC Archives in Action in collaboration with CSUF Pollak Library, UCI Libraries, and the Great Park Gallery.
Cut, Fold, Color & Click! Paper Sculptures & More
Saturday, April 11, Noon–3 p.m.
Great Park Studio
Participants can explore the artistic and structural possibilities of everyday paper through self guided techniques like cutting, folding, bending, and layering. Learn how these basic actions can be combined to create personalized animal characters. Once your creations are complete, bring them to life in fantastical mini landscapes by artist Vonn Sumner and capture your work in a playful photo op, sharing your craft and photography skills with #ArtsInIrvine on social media! Bringing together paper craft, sculpture, art direction, and photography, this all-ages event offers a fun, group-friendly activity in visual storytelling through both two-dimensional and three-dimensional art forms.