The City of Irvine is celebrating its 50th anniversary of incorporation this year. Many exciting activities have already taken place to pay homage to these remarkable 50 years and more are planned, including the following exciting events. For more information, visit cityofirvine.org/50th.
50th Anniversary Photo Contest Exhibition
Irvine City Hall
December 6–March 4
In honor of the City's 50th Anniversary in 2021, we invited residents, businesses, and visitors to help us celebrate by partaking in our photo contest by submitting photos that capture the essence of Irvine — our neighborhoods and residents, open space, history, and events. Winning photos in each category will be displayed at a photo contest exhibition at the Irvine Civic Center beginning December 6, and the winning photographers will be invited to a reception event December 7. View all photo contest submissions.
50th Anniversary Symposium and Photo Exhibition Reception
Irvine City Hall
December 7; 5:30–7:30 p.m.
Join us as we celebrate Irvine past and present. We will look back on our City’s rich history with a special oral history video and symposium highlighting how Irvine came to be the model master-planned community it is today. In addition, the winning images in the City’s 50th Anniversary Photo Contest will be on display. The 24 contest finalists, including the grand prize winner and individual category winners, will be recognized at an opening reception. Admission and parking are free. Reserve your spot by registering here.
Party at the Park: Irvine's 50th Birthday Party
Great Park
Saturday, December 11; 2 p.m.–7 p.m.
The City of Irvine is turning 50, and we’re throwing a birthday party for the whole community. Bring your family and friends to Great Park on Saturday, December 11 for a family-friendly evening.
Admission is free and the event includes:
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Music and dancing
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Family fun
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Crafts and interactive activities
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Food trucks (with food available for purchase)
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Special surprises to celebrate Irvine
No registration is necessary; open to all ages.
Block Party Incorporation Celebration
Various Locations
Tuesday, December 28, 2–5 p.m.
Join a block party to celebrate the date of our City’s incorporation all across Irvine on December 28. Our largest community centers will host mini celebrations for residents throughout the afternoon, with crafts, cupcakes, and anniversary photo ops. Locations include:
- Lakeview Senior Center
- Portola Community Center
- Quail Hill Community Center
- Northwood Community Center
- Turtle Rock Community Center
1971: Building Irvine
Great Park Hangar 244
Ongoing
In 1971 the City of Irvine became an incorporated city by the State of California, enabling it to become the thriving city we know today. In collaboration with University California, Irvine, Hangar 244 at the Great Park presents 1971: Building Irvine. Through historic photography and text, this exhibition celebrates community milestones, landmarks, and spaces built after 1971 while recognizing the past that brought us here.
50th Anniversary Photo Frame Tour
"Say Cheese" and pose for a picture behind our 50th Anniversary photo frames! Snap a picture at the permanent frame that is located at the Great Park Palm Court. Or, take a picture with our traveling frame which will be stationed at our special events throughout the City through the end of the year. Make sure you post to social media and use the hashtag #Irvine50thPhotos to join in on the celebration!
50 for 50 Fitness Challenge
Through December 31
Irvine Seniors, let’s get moving in celebration of Irvine’s 50th Anniversary with the 50 for 50 Fitness Challenge, October 4 through December 31. Run, walk, bike, swim, or skate in order to complete 50 miles on your own time at any desired location. Upon completion each challenger will receive a certificate and medal at the 50 for 50 Finisher’s Celebration. Registration is $5 for seniors ages 50 and older. Sign up now and browse all available classes and activities at yourirvine.org.