Orange County’s Best Summer Activities for Families

Summer is well under way, which means warmer weather, more free time for children and of course, plenty of fun to be had in Orange County. This season, families can take time to enjoy the outdoors, see a movie under the stars and more. We’ve gathered a list of some of the best family-friendly activities to help you plan the rest of your summer.

Get Artsy 

It’s the perfect time of year for kids to get in touch with their creative sides and Color Me Mine at The Market Place is hosting Summer Paint Classes that teach children step-by-step painting techniques. Each class gives students the chance to create unique projects in a 1.5 hour session with a skilled team-member. Lessons are offered now through August 8, Monday-Friday from 10am-11:30am and can be purchased individually for $33, plus tax. Feeling inspired after class? Pick up paints and other crafting materials at Hobby Lobby or Michaels to continue creative pursuits at home.

Picnic at the Park

With Irvine being ranked the No. 1 park system in Southern California for seven consecutive years, why not enjoy Orange County’s exceptional summer weather with lunch outdoors? Not only is Irvine home to 57,500 acres of permanently preserved open space, but when you live in Orchard Hills, Portola Springs Village or Eastwood Village, you have access to over 270 parks, each perfect for a picnic. Opt for a shaded awning or picnic table offered at a local Irvine park, such Northwood Community Park, or pack comfortable seating, games and an easy-to-eat meal to make it an afternoon event at Deerfield or Heritage Community Parks. 

For a more traditional picnic, skip the table and set up your space in one of the sprawling lawns in Irvine. First, find throw pillows and blankets at HomeGoods, so you can relax in a comfortable space. Next, gather ingredients for a meal that is simple to put together but won’t sacrifice taste, like a charcuterie board. Find exceptional meats, cheeses and snacks from Whole Foods Market for an elevated picnic experience. Finally, don’t forget to bring lawn games! You can find entertaining outdoor games such as bocce ball, croquet, bean bag toss and more at Target at Irvine Spectrum Center®.

Enjoy Local Events

There’s always something new in Orange County and this summer, Saturdays are the day to get the most out of the week with Summer Fun Saturdays at The Market Place. From 12-3pm, attendees will have a chance to experience exciting games, giveaways, live DJ entertainment and more. On August 20, you’ll find the fun near the California Pizza Kitchen Courtyard. After the events, stick around for shopping and dining at the center.

If you’re looking for a fun activity the entire family can participate in, visit the OC Fair! Open Wednesday through Sunday, this annual event is going on now through August 14 and with carnival-style games, exciting food, local art exhibits and more, there is something that everyone will enjoy. 

Summer Day Camps

Education meets entertainment at Woodbridge Village Center’s Summer Day Camps. Parents can foster the newly developed skills that children learn in day camps with activities that nurture both creative and analytical thinking. Kids can enjoy art through dra gwing and painting at The Artist Lab year-round, with summer camps occurring Monday-Friday from 9am-2:30pm through August 12. If you’re excited to watch your child grow their imagination through STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics), LeXT Robo Academy provides half-day and full-day classes for children ages three and up. Summer classes are available through August 26, but regular curriculum and camps run throughout the year. 

Catch a Movie

Irvine Spectrum Center®

Gather the family to escape the heat and enjoy the latest cinematic experience at the luxury theaters at Regal Irvine Spectrum or head to Regal Edwards Market Place for Regal Summer Movie Express 2022. Now through August 17, family-friendly movies such as The Lego Movie, Sing and Croods: A New Age will be featured on screen for only $2 on Tuesdays. 

Looking for an outdoor movie-watching experience? Irvine Regional Park will be showing School of Rock on August 5, hosted by OC Parks, as part of the Sunset Cinema Film Series. Movies will be shown throughout Orange County, find out more information here. 

Summer is the perfect time to explore unique activities with your family and when you live in Irvine, there’s no shortage of fun things to do. With a little more free time for kids and exciting events nearby, it’s never been a better time to be an Irvine resident. To learn more about finding the perfect home in Irvine, click here.