Pretend City’s Soiree Funds Future Play
Guests gather to support Irvine’s Pretend City, the nonprofit children’s museum, as it prepares for a major expansion. Photo credit The Vine
Irvine's beloved Pretend City is preparing for a significant transformation. On the evening of Thursday July 27th, the children’s museum’s fans and supporters gathered at the Balboa Bay Club for the nonprofit’s third annual Summer Soiree. For the first time, renderings of Pretend City’s new location at the Great Park were on display for all to see.
As guests scrutinized prizes available for raffle winners, they sipped on signature cocktails made with the Exclusive Sips Sponsor for the evening, Casa Azul. Passed appetizers included the Bay Club’s Lobster House Roll, Coconut Shrimp Butterflied Prawn, Tikka Spiced Chicken Satay, and Vegetable Samosa. A buffet of flat breads, sliders, and garlic fries kept guests happily snacking throughout the evening.
Before the evening’s live auction for a stay at a newly renovated beach-front vacation home donated by Monica Wong, Pretend City officials shared personal stories about the significance of the museum’s impact on Orange County families. Pretend City Chairman of the Board Erin Boyl then shared news about the new location in the sprawling Great Park and how it will enhance the nonprofit’s mission.
“We’re going to become a regional destination for all children and families, because [the Great Park] is much more central, it’s easier to get to, and there are more ways for people to access us,” said Boyl, who added that Pretend City has already secured 60% of the funding needed for the new $65 million state-of-the-art museum. Boyl said that Irvine has provided Pretend City with an interest-free $25 million loan.
“We could not be more grateful for their competence and their support in what we’re endeavoring upon,” said Boyl of Irvine’s generosity.
Pretend City hopes to break ground on the site in the fall of 2024, with doors opening in the fall of 2026.
“The future is so bright, not just for Pretend City but most importantly for the children of Orange County and our community at large,” Boyl said. “An investment in our children means a safer, better, and more productive society for all going forward.”
With over $100,000 raised at the event, Pretend City is still focused on serving the community in its current location even as it plans for a bright future.
Learn more about Pretend City’s programs and future fundraisers here.