Natali Carrera - FresYes!

DEFY Trampoline Park Offers Big Fun & Affordable Monthly Memberships

February 14, 2020 by Natali Carrera Leave a Comment

In the Fresno and nearby metro surrounding area, there are now three indoor trampoline parks:

Aerozone is located on Ashlan and Cedar and features multiple rooms of entertainment including specially designated areas intended for use by younger children. A highlight for older kids is the number of dodgeball courts available for play. This park is also the most affordable to visit by the hour.
Skywalk is located just north of Fresno off of Freeway 41 in Madera. There are some unique, fun features here like a rock-climbing wall and obstacle course in addition to a rope swing over foam pit attraction.
DEFY is located in Clovis off of Herndon and Peach Avenues and is the newest trampoline park in the area. This park in the priciest of the three, but also offers the most unique variety of activities that I’ve seen and seems to be particularly attractive to older kids.

I recently had the opportunity to check out DEFY for the first time when my son was invited to a birthday party held there. I was really impressed at the expansiveness, organization and fun atmosphere, the helpfulness of the staff and the wide variety of activities and apparatuses available for jumpers to enjoy.

DEFY is national trampoline park chain with locations across the country that first opened in our area last January. To be completely honest – their pricing being higher than the other local trampoline parks was a bit of a deterrent to taking my son previously. However, after visiting I realized it really is quite an exceptional place, and if you take advantage of DEFY’s Monthly Flight Pass options, it makes DEFY an awesome and affordable place to count on for helping kids get their energy out in a healthy way, regardless of the weather outside.

Though Flight Time can be purchased in hourly increments ($16/hour or $24/two hours, or for ages under 6 $12/hour, $21/2 hours), monthly flight passes offer tons of jump time for less than the cost of a one-time two-hour pass.

There are three monthly Flight Club membership levels. For $20/month, you can jump every day for up to 2 hours each day. For $25/month you can jump for as long as you like on weekdays and 2 hours on weekend days. And for $45/month, you can jump for as long as you like, every single day.

DEFY is one of those places that I could describe for you in words, however, it will be much better represented with photos. I snapped quite a few on our recent visit to try to capture the variety of activities available.

As you enter the facility, you walk into a large foyer with computers that allow you to electronically sign safety waivers prior to purchasing jump time at the front cashier’s desk.

Once inside, there is a large lounge area where spectators can relax and observe those jumping in their group. (There is also an upstairs viewing area, however at times it is reserved for private parties). There is a snack bar with lots of food options to enjoy, and it also provides pizza for birthday parties.

There are private party rooms available on the left wall just past the snack bar. Party packages are available at three price points per jumper. More party information can be found here.

The jump space is divided into many sub-spaces each offering different experiences and types of equipment.

Punching bags, balance beams, aerial silks and a wall to climb at DEFY

Obstacles courses above foam pits at DEFY

Wipe Out or American Gladiator reminiscent obstacles in the foreground and dodge ball and ramp trampolines can be seen in the background

This particular attraction was very popular during our visit to DEFY. You can sit on a giant ball and zip line across the room. Next to it you can hop parkour style from uneven surface to uneven surface.

Aerial silks, a huge foam pit and additional zip line attractions at DEFY

I hope you enjoyed my mini photo tour of DEFY in Clovis, and if you’re looking for a great place to jump around (queue Kris Kros Jump in your head now, that’ll be stuck in your head for the rest of the day – sorry, not sorry ;-)) consider checking them out soon, and keep in mind the monthly Flight Passes offer tons of jumping fun for less than a two-hour one-time flight! Enjoy!

DEFY is located at 636 N. Halifax Avenue off of Peach and Herndon in Clovis. For hours of operation, safety information and more visit their website here.

8 UNIQUELY AWESOME AND FRESNO WAYS TO CELEBRATE VALENTINE’S DAY 2020

January 28, 2020 by Natali Carrera Leave a Comment

Whether you are part of a couple, celebrating singlehood or a little bummed by not having been hit with cupid’s arrow recently, the impending arrival of Valentine’s Day can bring with it a bit of stress. Whether you’re feeling the pressure to plan the perfect date or simply deciding how to enjoy your Valentine’s Day Friday night (yup, it’s on a Friday this year friends) I want you to know I’ve got your back!

There are some super cool events happening in Fresno in honor of Valentine’s Day 2020, and one is sure to make your night great whether you spend it with your better half, your “Galentine’s” or your awesome self.

FOR THOSE WHO ENJOY WINE-TASTING:

Fresno County Wine Trail’s Wine & Chocolate Lover’s Weekend

Technically, this event takes place the weekend before Valentine’s Day, however, it is my personal favorite way to celebrate Valentine’s Day. This event features all Fresno County Wine Trail Wineries (plus one distillery and two breweries) and for a one-time price of $10 (in advance, $15 day of), you’ll receive a wristband that lets you enjoy tastings at all locations on both Saturday, February 8^th and Sunday, February 9^th. (Click here to purchase a wristband.)

Participating wineries include the following:

In order for everyone in your party to enjoy tastings and ensure safe travel between wineries, I highly recommend purchasing a seat on Golden Eagle Charter’s wine busses. They stop at 5 eastward and southern locations on Saturday, and Sunday’s bus stops at 5 westside locations. The cost is just $40 per person, and it includes the wristband and a comfy seat on a charter bus with a friendly and easy-going driver. To book your tickets, call Golden Eagle Charter at 559-275-2910.

FOR THOSE WHO WANT TO ENJOY A SPECIAL, FINE DINING EXPERIENCE:

Dine in the Dark

The Painted Table’s Chefs are hosting a unique dining experience at the Fresno Art Museum on Friday, February 14^th at 7pm. “Chefs Matt Moore & Barbara McCormick will present a three-course meal in a pitch-dark environment. Your senses of taste, sound, smell, and touch will be heightened, creating a memorable, sensory experience.” Seating is limited, tickets are $125 and include craft cocktails. To purchase tickets, call 559-441-4221.

Dine & Dance – Masked!

Zivelli Winery, located at 5840 N. Biola (West of 99, in 93723), will be hosting a Valentine Masquerade Dinner Dance from 6:30-9:30pm on Valentine’s night. Dinner, dessert, wine and dancing are all included for the ticket price of $75 per person. Fancy attire is not required; however, all guests shall wear their best masks for an evening of intrigue and fun. This event does sell out, so purchase tickets as soon as possible if you’re interested.

Wine & Dine

For a more traditional dinner option in a lovely venue – consider the Ramos-Torres Winery’s Valentine Dinner. Ramos-Torres is located in Kingsburg, just a short drive on the 99 South of Fresno at 1665 Simpson Street. This four-course meal that includes a decadent dessert (click for menu options) is $150 per couple and will begin at 6:30 on February 14^th. For tickets, click here.

FOR THOSE WANTING A FUN, THROWBACK NIGHT OUT:

Tioga-Sequoia Beer Garden’s 80’s Prom

You better find your crimper because Tioga Sequoia Brewery & Beer Garden invites you to “Dust off your cassettes and tease up your hair for a totally tubular Back to the 80’s Prom Night!” This Valentine’s Night event has no cover charge, will feature food trucks, live music, special brewery releases and if you’re bringing a date, there will be special “prom packages” for purchase. This event is open to all ages. For more information, click here.

90’s Dance Night

Are the 80’s too much of a throwback for you? Never fear, Full Circle Olympic in the Tower District will happily host you and your crew for a 90’s Alternative Dance Night instead! The cover charge for this 5-hour fun fest is just $10. DJ Wreck Wiem will be playing all your favorite grunge rock from the 90’s as well as some slow jams for the couples in attendance. All ages are welcome. Click here for more info.

*Bonus*: You could probably get away with saying you “time-traveled” if you attend both events in the same night!

FOR THE CREATIVES

Make Your Own Blown Glass Heart with Ballis Glass

Ballis does a fantastic job of walking their guest artists through the process of creating their own custom blown-glass creations. “This (2-hour) class includes everything you’ll need to design a one of a kind glass heart. You get to choose your own colors, add them to molten glass and then sculpt it into a heart.” There are multiple nights available for this event – check dates and book your spot for $55 here.

FOR THE HOMEBODIES:

Heart-Box Full-of-Tacos & Netflix Night

Taqueria El Premio Mayor is well-known for making some of the absolute best street tacos around. They’re so good, even Food Science Celebrity Alton Brown tweeted about them. So, if you really want to show your special someone (or yourself!) some love, do it the Fresno-taco-loving-way by purchasing a special edition heart-shaped box of tacos on Valentine’s Day and enjoy them during your Netflix night in. Follow Taqueria El Premio Mayor on social for details about how to get your heart box o’tacos. Details to come very soon!

So, whether you want to eat well, imbibe on lovely, local wine, throwback to your youth and get down, create a glass masterpiece or just stay home and enjoy some bomb tacos this Valentine’s Day, Fresno is a GREAT place to be.

Modernist Craft Cocktails brings owners with Fresno roots to Downtown Fresno

January 17, 2020 by Natali Carrera Leave a Comment

Downtown Fresno and Fresno area social media accounts have been buzzing about one of our city’s newest, locally owned businesses, Modernist Craft Cocktail Bar, that just opened its doors this week! Modernist is located between Inyo and Mono at 719 Fulton Street in the up and coming Downtown Brewery District.

Modernist owners Carmen Serrato and Po Tsai were kind enough to spend some time answering my questions about Modernist and their Fresno roots, and I’m excited to share their story with you!

Tell us a little bit about yourselves. Where did your passion for making amazing classic and craft cocktails come from?

Modernist is a passion project on many fronts for both of us.

For Carmen, who was born in Fresno, this is a chance to re-connect with the city while paying forward all the cocktail experiences that shaped her life since leaving Fresno for college, and the early parts of her career in New York City.

Carmen has lived in NYC, London, Shanghai, and San Francisco and had the opportunity to frequent some of the world’s top bars and fell in love with the craft of cocktails. Now that she’s back in California, the recent revitalization efforts and investment in downtown have inspired her to bring together her appreciation of downtown Fresno and passion for cocktails.

Po has been similarly influenced by pivotal cocktail experiences throughout his life (usually 50/50 on the direction of “pivotal” but always memorable). Modernist stems from his passion for cocktails, social impact, and entrepreneurship.

“Modernist is an opportunity to create unique expressions of an age-old concept (bars), during a time of change (revitalization), in an unique geography (downtown Fresno), expanding the community’s offerings for natives and visitors alike.”

What factors made you decide to make Downtown Fresno’s Brewery District Modernist’s home?

Carmen is a Fresno native, who frequented the streets of downtown growing up, and graduated not too far, from Edison High School – so after seeing all the revitalization efforts happening, she knew she wanted to be part of it.

“We want to help propel downtown Fresno towards its future as a vibrant hub by bringing new experiences and new nightlife to the urban core of Fresno, through the establishment of the Modernist. Being in the Brewery District, there is an immediate opportunity to add to the developing nightlife scene with a different product offering: craft cocktails.”

How has the experience been so far getting everything going behind the scenes? Any tips for others who might be considering opening a business Downtown?

“Fresno is experiencing a wave of new bar concepts which requires time to adapt to and optimize for. The alcohol industry has historically not been one to receive much in terms of business development incentives, given the nature of the industry. Depending on the goals of the city and city planning, a streamlined process to get through permitting and processing will potentially encourage and expedite growth and development in target areas like Downtown.

On the positive side, our neighbors and the Downtown Fresno Partnership have been extremely supportive throughout the process. We feel so welcomed and encourage other businesses to continue to support each other!”

What do you hope your customers notice/appreciate when they come to Modernist?

“People are the first thing and the last thing. We are strong believers in the bond of human connection and want to provide a reason for people to connect, and an experience to do so over. We aim to provide a personable experience, where we encourage customers to engage with our bartenders to learn more about the cocktails and have them help you find the perfect one for you. We develop drinks that can cater to a range, from educating the cocktail first-timers to intriguing the long-time connoisseur – we aim to deliver a memorable experience that you want to come back for!”

For fun: what are three other Downtown businesses you love and think everyone should know about?

Carmen and Po had a hard time narrowing it down to three. But ultimately, they chose these awesome places:

Libelula – “A great farm to table spot on Broadway. Just looking at their food pics has us drooling.”

Root General – “A very stylish shop always providing a memorable experience and a huge supporter of local artisans and local designers!”

Tioga & Zack’s – “Both amazing breweries, and our neighbors!”

Your online menu looks fantastic – do you have a favorite drink, and has there been a signature crowd favorite so far from the pop-ups you’ve been hosting?

“Two personal favorites are the Johnny Appleseed, a spirit-forward whiskey cocktail with light apple and hints of orange, a great alternative to an Old Fashioned! And our own take on the Cloak & Dagger, a lemony cocktail whose ingredients present complexity in flavor and is topped with absinthe foam.”

Carmen continues to share, “A couple of crowd favorites have been the Barry Naught’s Farm with fruit flavors and a buttery finish, and the Hawaiian Tux made with a house pineapple tequila with a collection of flavors that are bright yet boozy with a natural sweetness. But you should try all of them and pick your own favorite. Just because it’s a crowd favorite, does not mean it will be yours ;)”

Modernist officially opened to the public on January 14^th. They will be open 7 days a week:

Monday: 4pm – 12am

Tuesday: 4pm – 12am

Wednesday: 4pm – 12am

Thursday: 4pm – 12am

Friday: 4pm – 1:30am

Saturday: 12pm – 1:30am

Sunday: 12pm – 12am

For parking, street parking in the area is the way to go or use Uber/Lyft. Be sure to stop in and welcome Carmen and Po to Downtown and enjoy one of their delicious cocktails soon. You can also follow Modernist on Instagram here.

Helladogmoms to Throw Pup Friendly Event & Support Local Rescue Group ARF -January 11th

January 9, 2020 by Natali Carrera Leave a Comment

Are you both local and a dog lover? If so, I have a fantastic event to share with you!

This Saturday, January 11^th, dog-loving local lifestyle brand Helladogmoms will be hosting a special Launch “Pawty” celebrating their line of “dog-mom” and new “dog-dad” gear at The Shop at KLSD in Downtown Fresno. But wait, there’s more!

Not only can you shop for super cute tees, hats, totes and other gear that proclaim your love for your furry companions, but you’ll also have the opportunity to take advantage of a variety of dog-focused activities – and YES, your dog is welcome to join you for all the fun!

Huddlbooth photography will be present, to capture fun photos of you with your pup enjoying the event, and famed local artist Elowyn Dickerson will be on-site creating live, custom paintings of canine companions. Speaking of fame – possibly the most famous Fresno dog, Fresno State’s own Victor E. Bulldog will be on-site accepting pets and cuddles (but sorry, I don’t think he can sign autographs, given the whole lack of opposable thumb issue).

Treats from the Rolling Donut await you this Saturday!

If you and your pooch have a sweet-tooth during the event, the Rolling Donut truck will be there to take care of you donut cravings (their mini-donuts are among my most favorite foods in all of Fresno – they’re served hot, fresh and with your choice of a wide range of toppings) and Producer’s Dairy will be providing dog-friendly puppuccinos for Rover.

Natali’s pup Rocco is thinking about those puppuccinos already!

As if all this wasn’t already fantastic for those of us with furry besties, Helladog moms will be donating a portion of all sales from the event to Animal Rescue of Fresno (ARF), a non-profit rescue group that works very hard each day to save homeless pets and help them find their forever homes. ARF is a group I’ve personally fostered dogs for in the past, and those who work with the organization are truly dedicated to doing what’s best for each future-pet, including providing for emergency medical treatment, surgeries and vet care for animals found or brought in in trouble. Raffle tickets will be available for purchase during the event, with sales benefitting ARF as well and prizes include a custom Helladogmoms bracelet made by local jewelry maker and designer Make Pie Not War and grooming services from Brittany’s Bark Avenue.

If you love dogs, and all of this sounds wonderful to you – but you simply can’t attend the Launch Pawty this Saturday, you can still support ARF and their mission in a variety of ways. You can make an easy donation online here, you can donate items from their wishlist directly to the shelter, or you can volunteer your time in helping animals by working at an adoption event, helping with animal socialization at the shelter, or assisting with the promotion of the shelter and its mission. For more information on ways to support ARF, click here.

Christine Brown, Helladogmom’s founder with husband and furbabies

Enjoy Food from Downtown Favorite Kikku in New, North Fresno Location

December 30, 2019 by Natali Carrera Leave a Comment

As a big fan of all types of Asian cuisine, I was saddened when I learned fast-casual Japanese-Korean fusion restaurant Koja Kitchen had closed earlier this year. However, the blow was greatly softened when I learned one of my favorite fast-casual Japanese restaurants, Kikku Japanese Food, would expand into its former location making it easy to enjoy my favorite Spicy Crispy Chicken near home as well as for lunch Downtown.

Kikku has been serving up fast and tasty fare on Tulare and M streets in Downtown Fresno for the last 17 years. The Downtown restaurant is open from 10:30am – 6:30pm on weekdays. Their new location, Kikku Kitchen, in the Park Place Shopping Center on Palm and Nees (just doors down from the FresYes office – woot!) offers expanded hours, 11am – 8pm every day except Sundays, and a new menu format.

My husband and I had the opportunity to check out the North Fresno location this week. The former Koja Kitchen layout and décor has been updated, and the arrangement of the tables feels more open and spacious than before. New light fixtures help to make the ambiance warm and inviting.

The Kikku Kitchen menu offers guests the opportunity to build their own combination plate starting with either white or brown rice, then choosing vegetables or salad and finally a protein of preference. Longtime Kikku customer favorites include my personal favorite, the Spicy Crispy Chicken, which is made with chicken breast that is lightly breaded, served piping hot and crisp with a side of the chef’s special spicy brown sauce with is made in-house from scratch. Other favorites are the Teriyaki Chicken which is marinated and made from tender, grilled chicken; and the Ginger Beef with is made from thinly sliced tri-tip.

One major difference in menu options between the Downtown location and the new, North Fresno location is the addition of Poke Bowls. While the Downtown restaurant offers sushi rolls, the new Kikku Kitchen is offering patrons one of California’s current favorite menu offerings – Poke. Both salmon and tuna poke are available, or guests can order a combination of both.

When it comes to getting lunch, especially during the busy workweek, convenience and speed is often of the utmost importance – so another newer addition for Kikku is the availability of an app that will allow customers to order and pay for their food in advance, and pick up their order quickly in-store. The app is available for both Android and iPhones, and on-app orders require just twenty minutes advance notice.

Whether you visit the original Kikku location Downtown, or the newer North Fresno Kikku Kitchen, you’re sure to enjoy tasty food, prepared fresh and great customer service. I’ve personally never been to Kikku and not been personally helped by co-owner Silvia Wahyudi. She and her husband Andri started the restaurant together and put a strong emphasis on customer care. Silvia recognizes all of her regular customers, and despite the restaurant often being very busy, she always manages to greet them and ask them about their family, work or children.

If you’ve never been to Kikku at either location, I highly recommend remedying that soon! And if you’re a Downtown regular but also find yourself in North Fresno, I know the Wahyudis would love to see you in their new digs!

Local Store Owners Share Their Picks for Top Gifts for Her this Holiday Season

December 4, 2019 by Natali Carrera Leave a Comment

Are you wanting to support local entrepreneurs this holiday season by shopping small businesses for gifts? You’re in luck because I have three amazing places for you to shop for the women in your life as well as what you need to know to choose the perfect gifts once you’re there. I spoke to the business owners at each location and got you top-notch recommendations for their most universally appealing items sure to please any gift recipient, as well as all the details on each store’s holiday hours, and special seasonal events and services. Read on to find out all you need to know to shop local and delight the special women in your life this December.

The Foundry (Special Pop Up Location in Fig Garden Village)

Holiday Hours: 10am-6pm, Sundays 11am-4pm

The Foundry is well-known in Clovis for its beautifully curated and displayed selection of clothing, accessories, children’s items, home décor, and gifts. This holiday season, Fresno shoppers can enjoy a special Foundry Fresno Pop Up location next to Madewell in Fig Garden Village on Shaw and Palm! The Pop Up (which feels like a fully decorated and artfully arranged permanent store) offers an impressive selection of holiday décor, home goods, children’s items, women’s clothing, jewelry, serving ware and gifts. I asked Marketing Director, Taylor, to point me in the direction of three of the most popular items for gifts in the store. Here’s what she recommended:

Capri Blue Volcano Candles – these candles have a cult following and smell like lightly sugared citrus and tropical florals. “We can barely keep them on the shelf,” explained Taylor, “everyone loves them!”

Barefoot Dreams Robes – these robes, though a bit of an investment, are one of the softest, cuddliest and most comforting items a person could possibly wear. You’ll have to touch one to understand it for yourself, but anyone who receives one as a gift will definitely feel pampered and cozy.

Locally Made Jewelry – The Foundry carries several lines of beautiful and unique handmade jewelry. Two lines that are particularly popular and universally appealing are Five and Two (who’s owner got her start in Fresno and now lives in LA) and Make Pie Not War (lovingly created in Fresno by Alana Little).

Special Holiday Services

The Foundry can assist with gift wrapping and shipping most items purchased in-store, to out of area recipients for your convenience. The Fig Garden Pop Up will be open until December 31, 2019.

KLSD (located Downtown at 1755 Broadway St #105)

Holiday Hours: Tues-Fri 10am-6pm Sat 11am-4pm

KLSD got its start making custom clothing designs and wedding items and has branched out to offer a wide array of clothing, accessories, jewelry, home décor and more. I asked owner Alexandra Register for her recommendations on fantastic gifts from some of the most popular items from her store, and she shared these three gems:

KLSD’s Be A Good Human shirt or sweater (both are unisex! Link 1, 2, 3) – with a great fit, super soft feel and awesome design, this selection is sure to bring a smile to your favorite do-gooder’s face. (Full disclosure: I fell in love with this in black and bought one for myself!)

Stronger Together women’s tee or unisex sweater – the perfect gift for those who want to rise by lifting others.

For the Fresno Fan – an awesome Fresno poster. “This is a custom colorway Fresno poster designed for us by local artist Thomas Wayne Mason,” says Register. (So cool!)

December’s Delightful In-Store Event Plan

KLSD also hosts awesome events! Check out their December line-up:

Art Hop featuring Smith & Len

Thursday, December 5th, 5-9 pm

Charcuterie Styling Workshop with Chef Shayna

Wednesday, Dec 11th, 6:30-8 pm. Tickets available here for a limited time.

Natural Dyed Hair Scarves Workshop with Smith & Len

Wednesday, Dec. 18th Tickets available online soon!

Follow KLSD on Social Media for details on events and shop updates!

Instagram Facebook Pinterest YouTube

Happy House (6033 N. Palm Avenue in NW Fresno)

Holiday Hours: 10a-6p Tuesday-Saturday and 11a-4p Sunday (starting December 15th until Christmas)

Happy House is new on the scene, opening just last month, however it began with a bang and the crowds have continued to flock to the unique boutique offering a curated selection that features clothing, home décor, furniture, children’s items, serving ware, dried florals, and vintage goods from over 75 small businesses, 25 of which are Valley-based. “We are adding to our local roster every week and are so amazed by all the talent in Fresno! All of our Christmas ornaments are made by different Fresno artists,” shared Owner and Curator Marielle Parrish, who also offered the following great gift recommendations:

Moroccan glassware sets of 6. They come in various styles, are handblown and are made of recycled glass. “Be sure to grab them quickly when you see them in-store because they tend to sell out as soon as they arrive!”

Ceramic items: mugs, planters, and vases

(And for little ones) Handmade wooden toys- “they are beautiful, timeless and get the kiddos to use their imaginations.”

In-store Holiday Happenings

12th at 6 pm- Giftwrap Art Workshop with Art by Elowyn

13th at 6:30 pm- Botanical Line Drawing: Christmas Ornament Edition with Little Barn Art Studio

17th at 6:30 pm- Charcuterie Board workshop with Natalie of Jade Magnolia (this sold out within the first day!)

Pop-ups:

Happy House will be popping up at the Daughter’s of Simone Holiday party at their headquarters on December 6th from 6-9p and again the next day at the Dreamer Co-Op Kinship from 11a-4p in downtown Fresno. At the Dreamer Co-op Happy House will be collaborating on new items with PCH the Label, which is sold exclusively at Happy House.

“At Happy House, we aim to cultivate togetherness and celebrate creativity & our various workshops will do just that,” Parrish explains. “We are also hosting a very special give back event on December 10^th from 6-8p with our dear friend Alex of Daphne Mae Photography. All the profits from her prints (& framing provided by Happy House) sold that evening will go directly to the Evangel Home which benefits women and children. Happy House will also be donating 10% of profits and collecting unwrapped toy donations for the children of the home for Christmas.”

Special Local Holiday Events are Coming! Mark your calendars now.

November 27, 2019 by Natali Carrera Leave a Comment

With Thanksgiving taking place so late in the month of November this year, the Christmas season is creeping up on us all very quickly! Fresno and nearby surrounding cities offer an awesome array of ways to ring in the holiday, but you’ve got to calendar them quick because they are almost upon us!

Here are 7 awesome ways to stoke your Christmas spirit with family and friends in the coming weeks.

Special Events

Santa’s Fly-In – November 29th @ 9 am

Santa will be arriving in the Riverpark Shopping Center on Blackstone and Nees on Black Friday at 9 am! He will be available for photos in front of the Edwards Movie Theater beginning at 10 am. If you’re out shopping, be sure to take the kids to see Santa arrive in Riverpark in a helicopter right at 9, it’s an experience sure to delight!

Santa Claus Lane Opening – November 29th @ 6pm

Santa Claus Lane is a musically synced, beautifully lit neighborhood experience located at 3116 Indianapolis in Clovis (off of Gettysburg and Locan). The Lane will celebrate the start of its 5th year of operation this year with an opening night celebration and food trucks from 6-10pm on November 29th.

Christmas Tree Lane Walk Nights – December 3^rd and December 11^th, 6-10pm

Fresno’s Famous Christmas Tree Lane is a 97-year old tradition the features beautifully lit homes amongst a canopy of decorated evergreens lining Van Ness Avenue between Shields and Shaw Avenues. Traffic is one-way, and though the lane is lit throughout December, it is closed to traffic on just two nights, which this year are the 3rd and 11th. Grab some cocoa, your gloves, and walking shoes and prepare for a great night in the brisk air with fellow seasonal revelers. For more details, click here.

Parades

Reedley Electric Farm Equipment Parade – December 5th, 3:30pm-8:30pm

This long-running parade features farm equipment of all types and sizes decorated and lit for the holidays! Little ones who love trucks and vehicles will especially enjoy this experience. Bundle up tight, go early for food that will be available for purchase and to claim a good seat. The parade goes through downtown Reedley, but the main location is listed as 1101 G Street. This parade usually begins once its dark, but festivities begin as early as 3:30pm that afternoon. Reedley is located to the southeast of Fresno, and is an easy 45 minute drive away.

Fresno Christmas Parade – December 7th, 2pm

This parade is celebrating its 90^th year by caravanning down Fulton Avenue in Downtown Fresno and holiday-themed floats celebrating each decade of the parade’s existence! This daytime parade is one of the areas oldest, and allows you to double up and see two great parades in the same day, since it takes place at 2pm and the Clovis Parade begins in the evening on the same date.

Clovis Children’s Electric Christmas Parade – December 7th, 6:30pm

This parade features lights, marching bands, cheer squads, horses, cars and more and is attended by thousands each year! Be sure to arrive early to get a good spot for viewing.

Pageantry of Lights Christmas Night Parade – December 14th, 6pm

This Kerman-based parade which begins at C street on Madera Avenue and proceeds to G street ushers Santa into the town of Kerman. This is a fun evening of festive lights and small-town charm sure to delight the young and old alike. Bring your own chairs and blankets and get cozy with your favorite people to enjoy this event.

Happy House Opens Offering Curated Artisan and Vintage Goods, Just in Time for the Holidays

November 13, 2019 by Natali Carrera Leave a Comment

What if there were a local store, that had the ambiance of Anthropologie, the curated finds of a really good vintage store, and handmade artisan goods made by talented, small business owners all in one place? Sound perfect? You’re in luck, because this store, Happy House, just opened in the Opus 1 shopping center on the northwest corner of Bullard and Palm Avenues.

Happy House is the realization of a lifelong dream for new store owner, Marielle Parrish. “I’ve dreamed of having a store just like this since I was two years old – no exaggeration,” she said when I made my first trip this past weekend. “Ever since I could remember, I just had an eye for things. I can’t quite explain it, but I love decorating and making our home happy, and throwing big, backyard dinner parties complete with decorated tablescapes for friends to show them I care.”

Parrish’s store is filled with a variety of items to bring joy to your life and home, and great giftable items for showing those you love that you care, as well. She’s also proud to use her woman-owned business to support other female entrepreneurs. “85% of the goods in my store come from women-owned businesses, and I personally select each item for its quality and craftsmanship.” She motioned to pretty, orange, painted dishtowels featuring contrasting fall gourds in white. “Each of the towels by this artist is handmade using wood-carved stamps that she creates herself!”

Parrish shared that her entire family is in the field of law, however, after attempting to go that route herself initially, she realized how strongly she felt pulled to fulfill her dream of owning her own store. So, to gain experience she worked in the retail industry as an Events Manager at Madewell in Figarden Village. She learned how to help customers find just what they were looking for, how to host successful in-store events and the ins and outs of store management. And then, the perfect location for her dream store became available, and the time felt right. Parrish made the leap, and within just about a month’s time, fully fitted the space and stocked her store – opening doors for the first time on Tuesday, November 5^th.

Some of the items you can find in Parrish’s Happy Home boutique include area rugs, dinnerware and serving items, vintage glassware, specialty food items, totes, wreaths, dried floral bouquets, personal care items such as natural skincare and cosmetics, children’s gifts, antique and handcrafted furniture, and jewelry. The items in the shop will be constantly changing, as Parrish finds new, artisan goods and amazing antique items to share with her customers.

Happy House is located behind Hemisphere Home in the Opus 1 Shopping Center. The store is open from 10 am to 6 pm, Tuesday through Saturday, and closed Sunday and Monday. If you’re looking to decorate your home, entertain this holiday season, purchase gifts from local shops or just engage in some relaxing retail therapy, you’re definitely going to want to make a trip to Happy House soon.

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