Published: Jul 14, 2015 | 09:00 AM

Dine Under the Stars at the Sea and Sage Audubon Summer Barbecue

The annual Sea and Sage Audubon’s annual Summer Barbecue is a must for those who have always wanted to enjoy a sunset dinner at the Irvine Ranch Water District’s San Joaquin Marsh. The event is scheduled for Saturday, July 25, from 5-10 p.m

This year’s featured speaker is Catherine Hamilton, who will take barbecue participants on an inspirational journey of birds and art. Hamilton grew up exploring the mountains and deserts of Southern California with a paint brush in hand and a love for the birds and wildlife. She became a contemporary artist in New York City and a full-time bird enthusiast. Combing her two passions, this adventure turned into four years of birding, painting in the field and in studios, and visiting museum ornithological collections.

This event is very popular and always sells out, so reservations are necessary. The menu will include chicken and freshly grilled hot dogs, salad, beans, chips, fresh fruit, cake, lemonade, and coffee. A veggie wrap will be provided for those who specifically request it on their reservation forms. The event is staffed entirely by Sea and Sage volunteers.

This family event will feature something for everyone:

• Dining in the meadow (6-7 p.m.)
• A sale of used nature books (5-7:15 p.m.)
• Evening walks around the marsh after dinner (6:30-7:50 p.m.)
• Catherine Hamilton’s program (starts at 8:15 p.m.)
• Evening walks after the program

Tickets for the barbecue and program are $20 for adults and $7 for children under five. Tickets include meals and beverages, evening marsh walk and program. Activities will begin at 5 p.m. Arrive early to sign up for the wildlife walks, as they are limited to 20 people.

For more information, reservations, and directions, call Sea and Sage Audubon at (949) 261-7963. The marsh is a hidden oasis located in the heart of Irvine. For more information on the Marsh, please visit the IRWD website.