About the 50th Anniversary

The City of Irvine was incorporated in 1971, and we're excited to celebrate our 50th anniversary this year. We will be honoring this anniversary with interactive events, online activities, and more exploring Irvine's past, present, and future. 

Irvine at 50

Watch this video retrospective of the City of Irvine's first 50 years, produced by the City's ICTV team. 

Hometown Highlights Video Series

The Hometown Highlights video series is a collection of stories from individuals who grew up in Irvine who grew up here in Irvine and is continuing to serve and provide leadership in our community. View our video series on YouTube.

Chuck Jones: Season of Creativity

The City of Irvine is thrilled to partner with the Chuck Jones Center for Creativity to spotlight artist Chuck Jones and his iconic career through a Great Park Gallery exhibition and interactive programming featuring his world-famous cartoon characters. The community will have opportunities to participate in art and creativity programs, educational lectures, and a film series all inspired by Jones’ work and legacy. For more information on events surrounding this exhibition, visit cityofirvine.org/chuckjones

We Are Irvine: Living Resource Guide Series  

In honor of the City’s 50th anniversary, the City of Irvine and South Coast Chinese Cultural Center (SCCCC) are collaborating to offer the “We Are Irvine: Living Resource Guide Series” for Chinese-Irvine newcomers, in Mandarin. The nine series event will occur monthly, beginning August 2021. The collective efforts of the City and SCCCC will highlight lessons learned from Chinese American immigrants and Irvine residents, and support new residents by minimizing anxieties due to language barriers, misunderstandings, or other unknowns. 

50th Anniversary Photo Contest

​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! The contest aimed to capture the essence of Irvine — our neighborhoods and residents, open space, history, and events. Submissions for the contest are now closed. All photos can be viewed online, and the grand prize winner and finalist photos can be seen at City Hall.  

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 which is located at the Orange County 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. View the schedule below to ensure you leave your mark on history with the City of Irvine. Make sure you post to social media and use the hashtag #Irvine50thPhotos to join in on the celebration!