Get ready to pucker up and dive into a citrus-filled extravaganza! The 31st Annual Mountain Mandarin Festival is rolling into town, and it’s bringing a zesty twist to your pre-Thanksgiving plans. Mark your calendars for November 22-24, 2024, because At The Grounds in Roseville, California, is about to transform into a Mandarin lover’s paradise.
A Juicy New Location
For the first time in its 31-year history, this beloved festival is moving to a brand new spot. Say goodbye to the cozy foothill town of Newcastle and hello to the spacious and stunning At The Grounds in Roseville. This change of scenery promises to add an extra splash of excitement to an already thrilling event.
From Small Seeds to Big Oranges
Who would have thought that a little festival in a tiny town would grow into such a big deal? Certainly not the organizers who launched the first Mountain Mandarin Festival 31 years ago. But here we are, three decades later, with a three-day bonanza that draws in a whopping 30,000 to 35,000 people from all over the West Coast. Talk about planting seeds and watching them grow!
What’s on the Menu?
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with all things mandarin. Local growers will hand out free samples of their fresh, juicy fruits. But that’s just the beginning. Prepare yourself for:
- Mandarin pizza (yes, you read that right!)
- Mandarin glazed wings
- Mandarin doughnuts
- Mandarin pulled pork
And if you think that’s all, think again. The festival boasts over 20 food vendors, each putting their own citrusy spin on classic dishes. Your taste buds won’t know what hit them!
Shop ‘Til You Drop
With over 200 vendors setting up shop, you’ll find everything from artisan crafts to mandarin-infused products. Stock up on:
- Jams and jellies
- Infused olive oils
- Balsamic vinegar
- Barbecue sauces
- Body care products
And don’t forget to grab a mesh bag (or ten) of fresh mandarins to take home. They’re perfect for snacking, baking, or gifting to that friend who always complains about vitamin C deficiency.
Entertainment Galore
The Mountain Mandarin Festival isn’t just about stuffing your face with delicious citrus treats (although that’s a big part of it). There’s plenty to keep you entertained throughout the weekend:
- Live music on four different stages
- A dedicated Kids Zone for the little ones
- Mandarin-themed contests (ever tried peeling a mandarin with your toes?)
- Mandarin cocktails for the grown-ups (why should kids have all the fun?)
The Nitty-Gritty Details
Here’s what you need to know to make the most of your mandarin-filled weekend:
Dates: November 22-24, 2024
Location: At The Grounds, 700 Event Center Dr., Roseville, CA 95678
Hours:
- Friday, Nov 22: 10 am to 5 pm
- Saturday, Nov 23: 9 am to 5 pm
- Sunday, Nov 24: 10 am to 4 pm
Tickets: Available online (skip the line!) or at the gate
Weather Policy: The event happens rain or shine, so bring an umbrella if needed!
Pet Policy: Sorry, Fido. Only service dogs with proper paperwork are allowed.
A Thanksgiving Tradition in the Making
Looking for something fun to do before the turkey takes center stage? The Mountain Mandarin Festival is included in our Thanksgiving Guide 2024, making it the perfect pre-holiday activity.
From Farm to Festival
Of course, the star of the show is the humble mandarin orange. Grown in the Sierra foothills, these little packets of sunshine are celebrated in all their glory during the festival. You’ll have the chance to meet and greet 15 local Mandarin growers, learn about their craft, and sample their wares.
A Boost for the Local Economy
This isn’t just a festival; it’s a celebration of local agriculture and craftsmanship. By attending, you’re supporting small businesses and farmers, helping to keep the mandarin-growing tradition alive in Placer County. Plus, you get to eat delicious food and have fun doing it. Talk about a win-win situation!
So, there you have it, folks. The 31st Annual Mountain Mandarin Festival is shaping up to be bigger, better, and more orange than ever before. Whether you’re a die-hard Mandarin fan or just looking for a fun way to kick off the holiday season, this festival has something for everyone. Just remember to wear your stretchiest pants – with all that mandarin-flavored goodness, you’ll need them!
Sources: mandarinfestival.com, Mountain Mandarin Festival Facebook Page
Header Image Source: mandarinfestival.com
