2000s

2000


Two films use the Plaza for location shots: Big Mama's House has the Plaza standing in for the South, and The Man Who Wasn't There uses it for scenes in a 1949 black and white film noir. First Paint the Towne outdoor painting contest is held in Old Towne, concluding at Depot Park. Old Towne gallery owners begin ArtWalk once a month on Thursday nights, featuring their galleries and exhibits. Flag Day ceremony at Santa Fe Depot Park June 14 commemorates the beginning of Veterans' Memorial construction. The Millennium Clock is dedicated October 15, also at the Santa Fe Depot Park. The completed Veterans' Memorial was dedicated November 11th in honor of all veterans.
Historical Photo - Two 1950s cars

2001


Restoration of Plaza Park and Plaza Square. Plaza area is used for filming of a Nickelodeon Channel movie.
Historical Photo - Present day Orange

2002


The Plaza Preservation Celebration is held on January 19, 2002 to celebrate the reopening of Plaza Park following the restoration of Plaza Park and Plaza Square.
Preservation ceremony for fountain

2003


Grijalva Park at Santiago Creek opened April 19, 2003. The 15-acre park, located at Prospect and Spring streets, was named in honor of early settler, Don Juan Pablo Grijalva, soldier, settler, rancher and pioneer, who came to California with the Anza expedition in 1775. His legacy includes the only Spanish rancho in Orange County.