If you are looking for a fun and exciting new adventure in the Irvine area, it is time to check out all of the festivals that Irvine has to offer. This culture rich city has a regular schedule of events rolling through all year long that offer a variety of activities, cuisines and entertainment. While we may already be half way through the year, there is no shortage of opportunities that await you. These events are the perfect choice for a family friendly outing that won’t break the bank and can be a great alternative to the typical dinner and a movie experience.

Irvine Korean Cultural Festival

Saturday May 13th – 10am-5pm

Irvine Civic Center

2022 will mark the 13th annual celebration of the Korean Cultural Festival. The event was designed to celebrate Korea’s rich cultural history, tastes and traditions. This festival brings a unique and exciting opportunity to learn about Korean history while enjoying authentic cuisines, performances, music, art and games. Bring the whole family to this extravaganza for a fun and educational experience. Parking and admission is free.

Visit www.irvinekoreanfestival.com for more information.

Studio Art Festival

Saturday June 3rd – 9am-5pm

Heritage Park

This festival is the perfect choice for all art lovers, big and small. The juried showcase of local artist features an extensive display of original works for your viewing pleasure and purchase. A variety of ceramics, sculptures, photography, jewelry, glass and more will be displayed along with live performance, art demonstrations and more. Enjoy a bite to eat while you browse and soak up the experience courtesy of local vendors. You can even score a delicious Ice Cream sundae complete with a handmade collectible bowl! Parking and Admission is Free.

Visit bit.ly/studioartsfestival for more information.

A Taste of Greece – Annual Food Festival

June 23rd-25th – Daily hours will vary

Saint Paul’s Orthodox Church

This festival will bring together the whole family. Learn all about the cultural history of Greece as you dance to traditional music, dine on authentic fare and enjoy a taste of what its like to be Greek. You can tour the Orthodox Church, learn how to cook traditional cuisine and even shop local vendors. Admission is $3.00 per person, but Veterans, Military families and children under 10 always receive free admission.

Visit www.irvinegreekfest.com for more information.

The La Habra Corn Festival

August 4th-6th – Daily times will vary

El Centro-Lions Park

The La Habra Corn Festival was established in 1947 and has since been bringing together families for their annual celebration. Supporting and growing the local community remains the heart of this event and over the years it has evolved into something truly spectacular. The parade is amongst the oldest and largest in the country boasting an impressive line up of bands, floats, marching groups and special celebrity appearances. You can grab a henna tattoo, get your face painted and enjoy a variety of local vendors, musical entertainment, rides, attractions, and delicious eats all weekend long. You could even win a 1965 Ford Mustang this year!

Visit www.lahabracornfestival.com for more information.

Tall Ships Festival

September 8th-10th – Daily times will vary

Dana Point Harbor

While the Tall Ships Festival isn’t exactly in Irvine, it is a short drive away, and well worth the trip. You can dine with mermaids, sip on craft beers and experience the majesty of The Parade of Sail at sunset. Historical re-enactors engage in canon battles, pirate adventures and mermaid encounters while you soak in the rich maritime history of California. Tour the ships and enjoy local food, beverage, vendors, and entertainment all weekend long.

Visit www.ocean-institute.com for more information.

Global Village Festival

September 23rd – 10am-6pm

Bill Barker Park

The Global Village Festival is known for being the largest and most attended festival in Irvine. Celebrating a melting pot of culture and entertainment has been the heart of this local celebration since its inception.  You can savor delicious cuisines, shop the international marketplace and enjoy a variety of interactive, educational and cultural displays. Enjoy over 100 performances across 5 stages, and let your little ones soak in all of the activities that kid village has to offer. The 40+ local restaurants and gourmet food trucks serving up regional dishes like boba smoothies, falafel, Mexican fusion and the All American bacon wrapped hot dog will send your taste buds on a global adventure. Do yourself a favor and make sure this years Global Village Festival is marked on your family calendar.

Visit www.irvinefestival.org for more information.

Tustin Tiller Days

2022 Date & Times TBA

Columbus Tustin Park

Just a short drive away in Tustin, CA is the Tiller Days Festival. This annual event was launched in 1957 and celebrates Orange County’s agricultural heritage. This 3-day event boasts a vast selection of carnival rides, fun games and good eats. The parade, live music and entertainment courtesy of local schools and organizations bring a fun and unique touch to this community wide celebration. Schools, civic groups and other organizations are also able to come together in charity to raise funds and promote their causes. This event is a great opportunity to get the family together for a fun weekend out while making a difference. Dates for the 2017 festival are unreleased at this time. Check out their website as the fall season approaches for updates.

Visit www.tustintillerdays.org for more information.

Holiday Faire

November 3rd & 4th – Times Vary Daily

Irvine Fine Arts Center- Heritage Park

If you are the kind of person who thinks the Christmas season starts the day after Halloween, then the Holiday Faire is perfect for you. Get a jump-start of your gift shopping while supporting local artists. There are over 100 vendors with a variety of unique and personable gifts. Holiday décor, jewelry, crafts, blown glass creations, ceramics, clothing and more will be available for you to browse as this festive inspired event. Grab a few friends for a day of festive music, shopping and getting excited for the season ahead. Entry is $2 per person and free parking is available on site.

Visit https://www.cityofirvine.org/irvine-fine-arts-center/holiday-faire for more info.

Annual Christmas Train

December 1st -23rd – Times Vary

Irvine Park Railroad

Grab the kids and take an enchanting train ride to the North Pole. This annual event offers an exciting opportunity for the kids to meet Santa and enjoy a variety of activities just for them. After your journey to the North Pole you will return to Santa’s Village where the kids can decorate cookies, play carnival games, win prizes, meet Mrs. Clause and navigate Frosty’s maze. Enjoy a selection of delicious foods under the twinkling lights at this fun a festive event that your kids are sure to enjoy. For tickets, prices and parking information make sure your check out the events website.

Visit www.irvineparkrailroad.com/events for more information. Get more local moving information here.