It’s easy enough to see what you’re getting with San Joaquin Valley Homes. You’ll find lots of information on our website, can email or phone agents if you have questions, and check out models when you visit our neighborhoods.

As much as you will enjoy your new home, you’ll also enjoy the surrounding area and its multitude of cultural events. Despite the Central Valley’s well-deserved reputation for being a farming powerhouse for the country, it’s not all tractor-pulls when the locals get together. You may be surprised at the breath and depth of annual events available to you and your family. 

Food

As you may suspect for an agricultural region, food acts as a centerpiece for many celebrations. A humble fruit, for example, gets its due in the Madera Pomegranate Festival, held every November. Expect recipes, demonstrations and meals featuring the delicious fruit. As part of the entertainment, the Pomegranate Parachuters, a bevy of beauties from the local skydiving center, perform.

Come February, that same location appeals to more refined tastes with the Wine and Chocolate Weekend. Tours of the local vineyards are a must with pairings of wine and chocolate acting as highlights.

If you want to try more exotic delicacies, go for the lamb kebobs, stuffed grape leaves and other Mediterranean specialties of the Armenian Food Festival in Visalia. Typically held around May, the extravaganza’s signature dishes can be had for dine-in or take-out.

History

California’s Central Valley is full of history. You can experience the Old West at the Chowchilla Western Stampede, held in the city for which the event is named. For one weekend in March, a hundred or so head of cattle are herded through Robertson Boulevard downtown by cowboys on horses. If you’ve got the skill, enter the cow roping or barrel racing contests and win some cash or a belt buckle.

In October, travel back to the 1860s with Civil War Revisited, presented by the Fresno Historical Society and the American Civil War Association. Mingle with the likes of Abraham Lincoln and Stonewall Jackson as you visit military encampments and civilian scenes. The main events are the battle re-enactments featuring authentically garbed Union and Confederate Soldiers. 

Fairs and festivals

As in many agricultural communities, the Central Valley celebrates its farming heritage at county fairs, such as the Tulare County Fair, held in September. Enjoy a parade and rodeo, local and national entertainers, and thrill to a carnival ride or two. If you’re in the market for some naturally raised beef, save your pennies for the Junior Livestock Auction.

In October, the Taste the Arts Festival in Visalia encourages you to admire and buy paintings, jewelry, sculptures and steel work created by over 70 regional artists. And it’s not too early to book your seats at the Great Western Gospel Music Fan Festival, held in April at the Visalia Convention Center. Nationally known performers like The Hoppers and Legacy Five will be appearing appearance alongside West Coast favorites like Blue Diamonds and the Johnson Family Quartet.

If you want more information about the activities open to you in the Central Valley or are interested in buying a new home here, please contact us.

Lisa Walker

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