The Friends of California Citrus Park will host the 4th Annual Citrus Festival at California Citrus State Historic Park, 9400 Dufferin Ave., on Saturday, March 28, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The event marks the height of the citrus season at one of Riverside's most historically significant landmarks, a 247-acre park that has preserved the region's citrus heritage since the Friends organization was founded in 1994.
Executive Director Susan von Zabern told the Gazette the festival has become something residents look forward to each year — and that it continues to draw new faces. "The festival is a family friendly event that offers something for everyone," she said, noting that attendance has grown steadily and that many visitors are surprised to discover the park for the first time. "Many visitors comment about not knowing the park was here or all the wonderful features that the City has to offer."
This year's festival includes an expanded kids' activity area, along with returning crowd favorites: a citrus tasting tent featuring more than a dozen varieties — sweet and sour, common and rare — cooking demonstrations by Saboreé Catering & Events, and painting classes. Live music by local band Southbound & Company, craft vendors, cultural and educational booths, food, beverages, and a beer garden round out the lineup.
Von Zabern said the festival also serves a broader educational purpose, giving the Friends an opportunity to highlight citrus's role in California's agricultural and cultural history — and to raise awareness about threats like Citrus Greening Disease, an insect-spread illness that poses a serious risk to citrus crops.
For those who want to stay connected after March 28, the Friends offer memberships at several levels, volunteer shifts at the park's gift shop on Fridays, Master Gardener workshops, and seats on working committees. The gift shop in the Visitor Center is open Friday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Parking is available at Arlington High School and Bethel Christian School, with free shuttle service to the park. Disabled parking is available on-site. Parking costs $10 at all locations.
More information: Visit californiacitruspark.com, call (951) 333-6786, or email cacitruspark@outlook.com.
