1. Art exhibit
Contemporary works in “More Than You Can Chew” explore the cultural, economic and political forces shaping culinary experiences. This exhibition reveals hidden complexities and offers fresh perspectives on the meaning behind everyday eating. Great Park Gallery, through April 20, cityofirvine.org
2. Paint and Sip
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with heart-filled painting and sweet surprises at Pretend City Children’s Museum. 29 Hubble, 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Feb. 14, pretendcity.org
3. Family hike
Spend an afternoon exploring Black Star Canyon. This interpretive 3-4 mile hike follows a flat trail and dry creek, offering opportunities to spot wildlife such as red-tailed hawks and mule deer at an easy pace. Registration required. 3-5:30 p.m. Feb. 8, letsgooutside.org
4. Science show
Experience the wild world of “Doktor Kaboom!” This high-energy show blends theater with science, featuring giant test tubes, smoke-ring cannons and hilarious experiments. Irvine Barclay Theatre, 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. Feb. 23, thebarclay.org
5. ‘The Great Gatsby Ballet’
Step into the Roaring ’20s with “The Great Gatsby Ballet” by World Ballet Company. Featuring 40 dancers, handcrafted costumes and a dynamic original score, this lavish production brings F. Scott Fitzgerald’s iconic story of love and excess to life on stage. Irvine Barclay Theatre, 7 p.m. Feb. 25-26, thebarclay.org
6. The Layover
Enjoy food and drinks at The Layover, Great Park’s new eatery. The venue offers free games, inflatable slides and bounce houses that allow parents to relax while younger visitors play at the park. Terraced Lawn, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on weekends, cityofirvine.org
7. Junior ranger
Earn a junior ranger badge while exploring the diverse landscapes of Peters Canyon Regional Park. This program, geared toward ages 7-12, offers an interactive nature experience for families to enjoy. Registration required. 3:30-5 p.m. Feb. 28, letsgooutside.org.
8. Kei Akagi Trio
Renowned pianist and composer Kei Akagi brings decades of jazz mastery to the UC Irvine stage. Known for his work with Miles Davis and other jazz legends, Akagi performs original compositions alongside longtime collaborators Darek Oles and Jason Harnell. Winifred Smith Hall, 8 p.m. Feb. 14-15, arts.uci.edu
9. Farmers market
Shop for fresh, locally grown produce, handcrafted artisan goods and gourmet food at the certified farmers market at Stonegate Elementary School (formerly held at Great Park). 100 Honors, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sundays, myoccfm.com
10. Improv: Nate Bargatze
Grammy-nominated comedian Nate Bargatze is known for his dry wit and clean humor. With hit specials on Netflix and Prime Video, Bargatze’s rise reflects his growing influence in the world of comedy. Irvine Improv, Feb. 27-March 1, improv.com/irvine
