Take a look at the top things to do this month in Irvine.

• JOIN THE RANCH COMMUNITY TO CELEBRATE OUR VETERANS

All are welcome to join us in The Ranch Park tomorrow, November 9 to celebrate our Veterans! The event will begin at 10 a.m. Joining us will be special guest speaker, Staff Sergeant & Drill Instructor Marine Jeremiah Chambers. There will be refreshments and fellowship after, as well as a memorabilia table. This event is sponsored by Real Estate with Russ and Andrew Paul, VA Loan Specialist. Learn More

• SHOP FOR ART AT THE HOLIDAY FAIRE

Irvine Fine Arts Center’s Holiday Faire features holiday music and handmade ceramics, jewelry, crafts, clothing, and food items for sale. Friday, November 8, 5–9 p.m., and Saturday, November 9, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. $2/person; 12 and younger, free. Learn More

• HONOR TROOPS AT VETERANS DAY CEREMONY

The City of Irvine hosts a special ceremony in the Colonel Bill Barber Marine Corps Memorial Park Formal Garden to pay tribute to our nation’s troops — past and present. 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Monday, November 11. Free. Learn More

• DONATE TO THE HOLIDAY TOY DRIVE

Donate new, unwrapped gifts for infants or children up to age 12 to support Irvine’s adopted Marine Battalion families. Donations accepted at Irvine City Hall, Irvine Police Department, and Orange County Great Park Visitors Center through December 13. Learn More

• HAVE CHILDREN WRITE A LETTER TO SANTA

Heritage and Turtle Rock community parks will be accepting and sorting Santa’s mail this season. All letters will receive responses, which can be picked up where the letter is dropped off. November 18–December 16. Free. Learn More

• CHECK OUT THE SILVER EXHIBITION OPENING

Silver is a photography exhibition featuring 20 artists who call the Irvine Fine Arts Center Photography Lab a creative home. Opening reception is Saturday, November 23, 4–6 p.m. Gallery hours vary; exhibit runs through January 11. Free. Learn More

• COMPETE IN A KIDS CHESS TOURNAMENT

Chess players can challenge their minds at the 44th Staser Fall Scholastic Chess Tournament. There is a free K–8 non-rated section and a $25 K–12 rated section on Sunday, November 17, at the Orange County Great Park. Registration required. Learn More

• KICK OFF THE HOLIDAYS WITH ART ON A SOCK

Paint a festive design on your own stocking to start holiday celebrations in Irvine. November 23, 10 a.m.–noon and 2–4 p.m. Ages 5+; $40. The seasonal fun continues during “Holidayz at the Park” and a tree lighting ceremony in December. Learn More

• SIGN UP FOR WINTER CLASSES & ACTIVITIES

Registration for winter activities, programs, and camps in Irvine opens November 15 at yourirvine.org. Learn a new sport, take up a fun hobby, and make friends in classes available for all ages. Preview activities now before signing up yourself or your kids. Learn More

• SEE ARTIST STATEMENT EXHIBIT ON DISPLAY

Ever seen a photo taken without a camera? Artist Statement showcases how artists have challenged our understanding of traditional art mediums. Exhibition runs through November 10 at the Orange County Great Park Gallery. Free. Learn More