Auburn, California, was once a hub for people seeking fortune during the mid-19th century California Gold Rush. Now, it’s an ideal location for a fun excursion, presenting visitors with a variety of activities to enjoy. You can spend a day doing anything from visiting historic Old Town to participating in a large-scale festival like the Mountain Mandarin Festival.
The festival is a highly anticipated event in Auburn and event planners anticipate at least 30,000 people in attendance. It's the ultimate celebration of the mandarin and the dedicated farmers that grow them. At least 17 different mandarin farmers will be on hand selling 10-pound bags of the ever popular fruit. Almost everything at the festival centers around the mandarin including food vendors selling mandarin-infused treats and craft vendors selling mandarin-themed products. Food options at the event will obviously include mandarin flavored items, but patrons will also find a wide selection of festival fare. The entertainment at the event will cover a broad spectrum, from chefs conducting demonstrations using mandarins to the Miss Mandarin Pageant. ResortsandLodges.com got the opportunity to interview Karen Spencer, representative for the festival, to talk about this unique citrus themed celebration.
RAL: Tell me a little bit about the event.
KS: This will be the 23rd year of the Mountain Mandarin Festival. It attracts between 30,000 and 35,000 people each year.
RAL: What is the typical demographic makeup of the event? Children? Families? Couples?
KS: Everyone loves mandarin oranges, all ages attend.
RAL: What makes this event unique?
KS: The Mountain Mandarin Festival celebrates the new harvest of locally grown mandarin oranges which are known for their intense, sweet flavor picked ripe from the tree - free samples abound.
RAL: Take me through the activities of a day at the event.
KS: Stroll among the local mandarin growers and taste the different fruit. Visitors are able to shop in four buildings, buying Mandarin BBQ sauces, syrups, olive oils, dressings, and dozens of other Mandarin inspired concoctions. More than 250 vendors in five buildings will be selling Mandarin scented lotions, soaps, and candles, along with artisan-crafted jewelry, home accessories, and holiday items.
RAL: What entertainment will attendees encounter?
KS: Entertainment includes live stage music, strolling entertainers, the Miss Mandarin Pageant, and a cooking stage with guest chef demonstrations.
RAL: What will patrons find for dining options?
KS: From amazing wood-fired pizza and hand-made beignets to a wide variety of festival food - each vendor must have a mandarin-based menu item. Plus, the popular Absolut Mandarin Bar with creative adult beverages featuring mandarins.
RAL: What is the environment like?
KS: The Festival takes place under the autumn-leaved trees of the Gold Country Fairgrounds in Auburn. The tangy scent of citrus is in the air as visitors discover fresh chocolate-covered Mandarins, Mandarin pizza or pulled pork, and Mandarin milkshakes.
RAL: What can an attendee expect to find for local lodging?
KS: There are multiple bed and breakfasts in the community. We are located in the California Gold Country and within 30 minutes of the entire Sacramento Valley. There are also RV campgrounds nearby.
RAL: Does the event support a special cause in the community? (School funds, etc.)
KS: The Mandarin Education Foundary and the Newcastle Area Business Association support the event. The festival supports the Boy Scouts, Alta Vista School Kitchen Project, Salvation Army, and other local charities. The event also awards four $1500 scholarships each year.
RAL: Why should people come to your event?
KS: Not only will you get the opportunity to buy this holiday staple, you can shop for unique gifts and decor in the fresh mountain air of the Sierra Foothills - visitors are also in the heart of California's Gold Country with many historical sites and excursions nearby.
For more information about the Mountain Mandarin Festival, please visit their website.