Fall color is everywhere here in the Sacramento region. Typically, we associate fall with pumpkin spice, apple pies and falling leaves…but what about oranges? In nearby Placer County, it’s the season of the mandarin. You can find everything from mandarin jelly, mandarin BBQ sauce, mandarin cookies…or just pluck a ripe and juicy fruit from a local tree and dive right in!
Sacramento and its surrounding areas is known to be the biggest and best of the Farm-to-Fork communities. With farms, wineries, and agriculture all around us, there is no reason we shouldn’t be enjoying the local produce and sampling some of the best fruits and vegetables around. And if you are looking for some unique local gifts to give this holiday season, then head to Placer County this weekend (just north of Sacramento), for their annual Mandarin Festival, November 20-22.
“The Mountain Mandarin Festival marks the official beginning of Placer County Mountain Mandarin season. The event takes place the weekend before Thanksgiving every year at the Gold Country Fairgrounds at 1273 High Street in Auburn. This 3-day celebration draws 30,000 visitors from as far away as the San Francisco Bay Area and Reno”.
You can sample fresh mandarins, olive oils, jams, jellies, syrups and more. I want to check out the Chocolate Dipped Mandarins, Mandarin Popcorn, Fudge and some of the other tasty concoctions!
There will also be cooking demonstrations, craft shows, vendors, kids’ activities and fun for the entire family. About an hour outside of Sacramento, you will be in Auburn, the heart of Gold Country. If you haven’t visited Auburn, it is a charming town that is known for their deep roots during the Gold Rush days. A visit to Auburn makes for a wonderful weekend day trip, with “mom and pop” shops, restaurants and plenty of outdoor activities. This time of year is gorgeous with the fall colors popping and the holiday season just around the corner, you will be sure to make some festive memories with your loved ones.
If you would like to check out this event the address again is: 1273 High Street in Auburn. Event hours are Friday 11am-5pm, Saturday 9am-5pm and Sunday 10am-4pm.
By Heather Crivellone
SacramentoKids.net 