Presented by OC Archives in Action, the Orange County Archives Bazaar: Green is the New Orange: The Environment, Art, and Us, brings together libraries, special collections, and cultural institutions. Showcasing materials from these collections, this event highlights the known and unknown stories of Orange County. In addition to institutional collection displays, the bazaar will feature discussions, presentations, and activities for all ages.

In support of Life on the Base: MCAS El Toro, the Great Park Palm Court Arts Complex presents a three-part live swing and jazz music series, Swingin’ in the Palm Court. Inspired by the swing and jazz music that filled the banquet halls of early MCAS El Toro, this event echoes the recreational activities service men and women partook in while stationed here. Bring folding chairs and blankets for seating around the Gallery and Palm Court; no advance registration is needed for these free events.

In support of Life on the Base: MCAS El Toro, the Great Park Palm Court Arts Complex presents a three-part live swing and jazz music series, Swingin’ in the Palm Court. Inspired by the swing and jazz music that filled the banquet halls of early MCAS El Toro, this event echoes the recreational activities service men and women partook in while stationed here. Bring folding chairs and blankets for seating around the Gallery and Palm Court; no advance registration is needed for these free events.

In support of Life on the Base: MCAS El Toro, the Great Park Palm Court Arts Complex presents a three-part live swing and jazz music series, Swingin’ in the Palm Court. Inspired by the swing and jazz music that filled the banquet halls of early MCAS El Toro, this event echoes the recreational activities service men and women partook in while stationed here. Bring folding chairs and blankets for seating around the Gallery and Palm Court; no advance registration is needed for these free events.

The City of Irvine is pleased to present Life on the Base: MCAS El Toro, a historical photography exhibition at the Great Park Gallery. An opening reception will be held Sunday, February 19, 1–3 p.m. 

Marine Corps Air Station El Toro opened in 1943 giving opportunities to young men and women who would come to call the base and surrounding areas home. While their days included the expected activities of life on a military base, their free time and recreational activities were fun and diverse.

The Irvine Fine Arts Center is pleased to announce its first exhibitions of the New Year: Aries Rising and North Node. The exhibitions run concurrently Saturday, March 11–Saturday, May 20. A free opening reception with the artists is Saturday, March 11, 2–4 p.m., and is open to the public. For more information, visit irvinefinearts.org/exhibitions.

The Irvine Animal Care Center invites the community to its 17th annual Super Pet Adoption & Fundraiser event. Local pet rescue groups will bring dogs, cats, and birds for adoption. This annual event features vendors and services for pets and their humans that includes gourmet food trucks, a bake sale, and a drawing giveaway. Tickets will be sold at the door: $5 for adults, free for children. Event parking is free. For more information, visit irvineanimals.org/superpet.

The Irvine Fine Arts Center hosts the 29th annual Studio Arts Festival. The juried festival will showcase Southern California artists and their original works of art in ceramics, sculpture, jewelry, painting, photography, fiber, and glass. The festival will feature art and interactive demonstrations for all ages and is an excellent opportunity to find unique, handmade crafts. Admission and parking are free. For more information, visit irvinefinearts.org/studioartsfestival.

The City of Irvine hosts its annual Memorial Day Ceremony in the Formal Garden. Attendees can memorialize our troops’ sacrifice by writing down a brief remembrance that will be posted on a memory board at the event. Cards are provided for well-wishers to send a message of appreciation and support to members of Irvine’s adopted 2/11 Marine Battalion.

Memorial Day is a time of remembrance for Americans to honor those who have given their lives while defending our nation. In partnership with Northwood Memorial Committee, a special candle lighting ceremony will be held at the Northwood Gratitude and Honor Memorial. Bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating.