One thing I love about Northern California is its incredible events. Throughout the year, towns big and small find ways to celebrate, and the town of Ripon is one of our favorites. During the last full weekend of February, Ripon combines history, excitement, community, and memories to host the Almond Blossom Festival. It’s a four-day event in Northern California ...
One thing I love about Northern California is its incredible events. Throughout the year, towns big and small find ways to celebrate, and the town of Ripon is one of our favorites. During the last full weekend of February, Ripon combines history, excitement, community, and memories to host the Almond Blossom Festival. It’s a four-day event in Northern California that everyone in the family will enjoy.
Located in San Joaquin County and approximately an hour south of Sacramento, Ripon is a community based on agriculture. In fact, this Northern California town is best known for its high production of almonds and is even known as “The Almond Capitol of the World.”
Since 1962, Ripon has celebrated its almond production and agricultural history by hosting the Almond Blossom Festival. This is one of the largest traditions in the area, with events taking place all weekend long. This year, the 63rd annual Almond Blossom Festival will take place from Thursday, Feb. 20 to Sunday, Feb. 23. It’s an event you’ll want to mark on your calendars today — you won’t want to miss it.
This festival is run by the Ripon Chamber of Commerce, and this team of individuals knows how to fill a weekend full of exciting events. The festival kicks off Thursday with a bake-off where individuals can display their skills and yummy goodies. Friday, festival vendor booths open at Mistlin Sports Park, along with the Apple Blossom Carnival. This area is where the young and young at heart may want to spend all of their time.
Saturday is also packed with excitement, beginning with both a pancake breakfast and breakfast burrito events. And you’ll want to build up your energy and stamina so you can also participate in the fun run with one mile and 8K races. A diaper derby, bake sale, and dance are also on the schedule for that day. However, one of the favorite family-friendly events at the Apple Blossom Festival is the parade, which begins at 1:00 p.m. in downtown Ripon (the parade begins at Stockton Avenue). The fun continues on Sunday with vendor booths, carnival, and live music.
And that's just the beginning of the activities offered during this event. As I said before … this weekend is packed with activities. You can view the full lineup of activities on the Ripon Chamber of Commerce website. Be aware that participation in some events does require a small fee.
Bring excitement to your February by attending the Almond Blossom Festival in Ripon, California. It’s an event full of activities, community, history, and so much more.
For more information on this annual event, make sure to visit the Ripon Chamber of Commerce website.
What are your favorite festivals in Northern California? What are your favorite things to do in Ripon? Let me know by filling out this form. And if this is your first time visiting Ripon, California, I recommend booking a stay in a cozy vacation rental.