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Here’s what you should do this weekend

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FresYes Writing Team

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Looking for something to do this weekend? Here are some fun suggestions for events happening in Fresno and beyond.

do this weekend 58

do this weekend 58

do this weekend 58

do this weekend 58

Friday

At 6 p.m. Friday, the Rocky Rock Band is bringing high energy 90s rock and dance music to Engelmann Cellars. All you 21 and overs can enjoy music, wine, and food from Steve’s Tacos.

Also at 6 p.m., the Fresno Grizzlies are celebrating Halfway 2 Halloween with a haunted house inside Chukchansi Park and trick-or-treating stations for the kids. Make sure to check out the special Halloween-themed merch!

Grammy-nominated ensemble Trio Ellas performs at the Warnor’s Theatre in downtown Fresno at 7 p.m. Expect traditional Mexican songs alongside songs by Roy Orbison and Death Cab for Cutie. 

The Good Company Players will perform Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical hit Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat at 7:30 p.m. both Friday and Saturday.

L.A. comedian Rick Wood is headlining Slice of Comedy at DiCicco’s in Clovis. The fun starts at 8 p.m. 

Pink Ladies and T-Birds can celebrate the 40th anniversary of the movie Grease at the historic Crest Theatre. Movie starts at 8 p.m. Come in costume and get a free popcorn!

do this weekend 58

do this weekend 58

do this weekend 58

do this weekend 58

do this weekend 58

Saturday

Start your Saturday with a Group Mindfulness Walk at 8 a.m. Meet at Todd Beamer Park in Fresno and stroll neighborhoods, parks, churches, Clovis Unified Schools, orchards, and the new campus of Clovis Community College.

Or take a kayak tour down the San Joaquin River at 8:30 a.m. The San Joaquin River Parkway and Conservation Trust does these tour periodically, so check their Facebook page for tours throughout the summer.

At 11 a.m., take a drive south for the second annual Pride Visalia. Enjoy a day of food, drinks, entertainment, music, drag shows, community booths, vendor booths, art, and photo booths.

Wine enthusiasts will want to head to Trelio in Clovis at 1 p.m. for the Spring 2018 Cellar Tasting. Cost is $45 per person and there will be over 40 different wines available.

Full Circle Brewing Co. will be the place for pop punk as Belmont, Crooked Teeth, Young Culture, Light of Mine, and more take the stage at 7 p.m. This is an all ages event; cost is $12 at the door.

At 7:05 p.m., the Fresno Grizzlies host the El Paso Chihuahuas on the field and a Rib Throwdown on the concourse! Gates open at 6:05 p.m. 

At Chukchansi Gold Resort and Casino, enjoy the sounds of Daughtry. This 21 and over show starts at 8 p.m. 

do this weekend 58

do this weekend 58

Sunday

 Join the Fresno Grizzlies at 11 a.m. for Sunday Brunch in the Party Deck. Mmm mimosas …

At 3 p.m., visit the Paul Shaghoian Concert Hall in Clovis for the final concert of the Fresno Community Concert Band’s 25th Anniversary Season. The concert will celebrate conductor Robert Nielsen’s tenure, featuring hand-picked music especially for the occasion.

300+ young musicians will gather on and off stage at the William Saroyan Theatre at 4 p.m. for the Youth Music Extravaganza. Joining the group will be world-renowned pianist Steven Vanhauwaert. 

…

What else is going on this weekend? Add your event to the comments.

Here’s your FresYes guide to May races, runs and walks

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Sarah Soghomonian

TV Producer and fan of all things fabulous.Bulldog Born, Bulldog Bred!

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May is one of the best months to get outside and enjoy the beauty around us. There are plenty of races set to take place in the Central Valley. Many are fundraisers for local charities and organizations.

There is something for all levels. From simple walks to trail runs, FresYes is breaking it all down for ya!

guide to May races

Fresno Olé 5-Que—Sugar Pine Trail

When: Saturday, May 5

Cost: 5K and 2K is $40. Kids 12 and under is $20.

Sign-up

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo by mixing a little fitness with fiesta! This night race turns into a party after you cross the finish line. Adult participants receive two tacos, a beer, fruit bar, T-shirt, and finisher’s medal. There are goodies for the kids too, including a finisher’s sombrero. Proceeds benefit Kids Kasa Foster Care.

Fiesta 5K Ole—Visalia

When: Saturday, May 5

Cost: $30 for adults. Kids 12 and under is $20.

Sign-up

There’s a similar Cinco de Mayo race taking place in Visalia. This one benefits Visalia Emergency Aid, which operates a food pantry.

guide to May races

Kerman Almond Festival Scholarship Run 5K & Kids’ Fun Run—Kerman

When: Saturday, May 5

Cost: $25. Kids $10.

Sign-up

This race at Kerckhoff Park features run and walk options. Following the race, stay for the Kerman Almond Festival. There will be live music, food, arts and crafts, and plenty of family fun.

Paseo de Mariposa 5K, 12K and Caterpillar Crawl—Mariposa

When: Saturday, May 5

Cost: 12K is $50, 5K is $20. Registration ends 5/2 at noon.

Sign-up

Located near Yosemite, this race starts at the Mariposa Courthouse, which is the oldest courthouse still in use west of the Rockies. It dates back to 1851. Participants are invited to walk in the Butterfly Parade, which takes place after the run.

Yosemite Half Marathon—Bass Lake

When: Saturday, May 12

Cost: $160. Registration ends 5/11 at 6 p.m.

Sign-up

This race isn’t for beginners. The fast, scenic course makes this a popular run each year. The race does not go through Yosemite National Park, but is held in Bass Lake. Be prepared: this race sells out.

Mother’s Day 10K, 2-Mile and Kids’ Fun Run—Woodward Park

When: Saturday, May 12

Cost: $30. Kids is $20. Prices increase 5/5.

Sign-up

Celebrate Mother’s Day a day early by getting fit with mom. The top mother/daughter and mother/son finishers will receive a special award. This race is organized by the Greater Madera Kiwanis Club.

Visalia River Run 5K & 10K—Golden West High School

When: Saturday, May 12

Cost: 10K is $40. 5K is $35.

Sign-up

This race starts at Golden West High School, but most of the race takes place along the St. John River Trail.

guide to May Races

Kingsburg Dala Horse Trot 10K Run & 2-Mile Walk/Run

When: Saturday, May 19

Cost: 10K is $40. 2-Mile is $25. Kids $15.

Sign-up

Lace up those running shoes and take in the sights and sounds of Kingsburg. This race is held in conjunction with the Kingsburg Swedish Festival.

Airways 2-Mile Walk & 5K Run—Woodward Park

When: Sunday, May 20

Cost: 5K is $25. 2-Mile is $20.

Sign-up

This race pays tribute to Jovante Woods. The young man passed away in 2010 after suffering a major asthma attack. His parents, Ickey and Chandra Woods, founded the Jovante Woods Foundation to raise funds for research on childhood asthma. Ickey played in the NFL. He was a fullback for the Cincinnati Bengals. Participants will receive a finisher’s medal and get to meet Ickey.

guide to May races

Clovis Memorial 2-Mile Walk/Run and 5K Run

When: Saturday, May 26

Cost: $35 for adults. Kids and seniors is $25, Vets and active military are free. Prices increase 5/13.

Sign-up

Celebrate Memorial Day and pay tribute to our veterans and military at this family-friendly race. The 5K is timed, but the 2-mile run/walk is not.

Taco Run 5K—Woodward Park

When: Saturday, May 26

Cost: $25

Sign-up

One thing is clear; Fresnans love themselves some tacos! This inaugural taco-themed race benefits Home Blessing Foundation, which provides affordable housing for the homeless. Participants will receive an “I Run for Tacos” T-shirt.

Proteus Inc. 6th Annual 5K Scholarship Run/2K Walk and Kids Fun Run—Visalia

When: Saturday, May 26

Cost: 5K is $25. 2K is $10. Kids $5.

Sign-up

This race at Valley Oaks Golf Course in Visalia benefits scholarships for graduating seniors or those already enrolled in college.

Do something in Fresno: Jan. 2-4

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FresYes Writing Team

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Every Friday I do a post about the cool stuff happening in the Fresno area. It’s called “Here’s what you should do this weekend,” and if you’re ever thinking there isn’t anything to do in town, you should check it out. You’ll feel so moded.

But here’s the thing: Cool stuff happens in Fresno all the time, not just on the weekend. So with that in mind, I’m launching a new weekly post called “Do something,” which will cover events happening Monday through Thursday. Why not just make the “Weekend” post longer? I dunno. I guess I just like to make things difficult for myself.

But also, some people avoid going out on the weekends (me), so this post is for them (us), and I don’t want these events getting lost in the shuffle. 

So, do something.

Tuesday

do something Jan 2

Tuesday Night Board Games

Where: 1920 Tea Club, 732 W. Bullard Ave., Fresno
When: 6 to 11 p.m. Tuesday 
What: Open board-gaming hosted by Fresno Board Gamers. Bring your favorite game or come learn a new one.
Details: [More]

New Year’s Salsa Classes at Studio 65

Where: Pete and Carmen’s Salsa Dance Academy, 2965 N. Maroa Ave., Fresno
When: 7 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday 
What: All levels, beginners to advanced
Details: $65 two times a week, $45 once a week. [More]

Just The Tips Tuesdays featuring Anna Valenzuela comedy show + open mic

Where: DiCicco’s, 408 Clovis Ave., Clovis
When: 8 to 10 p.m. Tuesday 
What: Anna Valenzuela is a Los Angeles-based comedian. Open mic starts after the headlining show. Bring tip money to pay the out-of-town comics.
Details: Free. [More]

Wednesday

do something Jan 2

Ice Age Animals Kid’s Camp

Where: Valley Animal Center, 3934 N Hayston Ave., Fresno
When: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday
What: For 3 days, let your kids explore the world of ice age animals while on break from school before the winter break. Kids will learn about these fascinating creatures from the past through arts & craft projects, games, as well as their favorite, our special guests.
Details: Sign-ups are available for kids ages 8-12 years old. Cost is $100 per child, $80 for Valley Animal Center Volunteers. [More]

Arsenal v Chelsea soccer match

Where: Strummer’s, Fresno
When: 11:45 a.m. Wednesday
What: The first of three meetings between these London rivals in the month of January.
Details: [More]

Ice Skate Visalia

Where: Garden Street Plaza, Visalia
When: 4 p.m. Wednesday
What: Ice Skate Visalia, hosted by the Visalia Parks & Recreation Department, offers the ultimate outdoor entertainment experience in Visalia. Enjoy a unique and fun skating experience on synthetic ice, which makes skating easier and safer for all ages.
Details: Admission is $10 and includes skate rental. [More]

Wooly Wednesdays by Ideaworks

Where: Clovis Veterans Memorial District, 808 4th St, Clovis
When: 5:30 p.m. Wednesday
What: Learn about fiber source and processing, and experience spinning by using Ideaworks spindles, spinning wheels and other fiber prep equipment. 
Details: Free, kid friendly. [More]

Workshop: Pre-Production

Where: CMAC, 1555 Van Ness Ave., Fresno
When: 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday
What: Explore strategies to effectively plan a community access television show in the CMAC studio or on location. Topics include idea generation, script writing, rundowns, underwriting, legal issues, production and post-production options.
Details: [More]

Thursday

do something Jan 2

ARTS & HOPS at the Beer Garden

Where: Tioga-Sequoia Brewing Co., Fresno
When: 4 to 11 p.m. Thursday
What: Music: Native Earthian; Artist: Amanda Angle; Food truck: Burgers and More
Details: Free admission, kid friendly. [More]

ArtHop at M Street Arts Complex

Where: M Street Arts Complex, 1419 M St., Fresno
When: 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday
What: Featured Exhibits: “Gaman” by McLane High School Students, “Renovare”, Gallery 25 Members Exhibit, Student Show by students from Ma Ly Atelier.
Details: Free admission, kid friendly. [More]

Kickoff Meet & Greet the Candidate: Daren Miller

Where: Kocky’s Bar & Grill, Fresno
When: 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday
What: Hosted by Elect Daren Miller Fresno City Council District 3, this is a public event for everyone to meet and greet the candidate.
Details: [More]

ArtHop at Broadway

Where: Broadway Studios, Fresno 
When: 6 to 9 p.m. Thursday
What: Hosted by D. Kerper Arts.
Details: [More]

Cloudship at Gazebo Gardens

Where: 3204 N Van Ness Blvd., Fresno 
When: 6 p.m. Thursday
What: Join the band in the beer garden and enjoy the incredible food trucks Fresno offers.
Details: [More]

Demo: Doctor Who Time of Daleks

Where: Crazy Squirrel Game Store, 464 E Bullard, Suite 105, Fresno
When: 6 to 9 p.m. Thursday
What: Ever wanted to be the Doctor? Travel in time and space, meet companions and have adventures? In Doctor Who: Time of the Daleks you do just that, with every player picking a Doctor and trying to thwart the Daleks’ master plan of erasing the Doctor from history.
Details: Game room fees apply as normal. If you purchase or special order a copy of the game being demoed that evening you will receive a 10% discount. [More]

Breaking Up Is Hard To Do—Good Company Players

Where: Roger Rocka’s Dinner Theater, 1226 N Wishon Ave., Fresno
When: 7 to 10 p.m. Thursday
What: Set at a Catskills resort in 1960, this is the sweetly comic story of Lois and Marge, two friends from Brooklyn in search of adventure and romance one wild Labor Day weekend. 
Details: Rated PG. Click for ticket prices. [More]

From Sousa to Star Wars, symphony orchestras will bring music into your life

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JoAnn Hallum

Houseplant killing optimist- freelance writer -kid herder

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When was the last time you sat down and listened to music without words? You hear it all the time, whether you realize it or not. In movies and on TV, emotions from joy to fear to love are evoked in part thanks to the music, whether it’s something traditional and classic like Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5 or the Star Wars soundtrack.

That music is now taking center stage thanks to a number of local orchestra symphonies. Yes, it’s symphony season in the Valley, and if you think that means putting on fancy clothes and sitting in a theater listening to music by a bunch of long-dead European guys, you’re in for a big surprise (though sometimes it’s that, which is fun!).

symphony orchestras

A great evening for some Pops in the Park

Pops in the Park takes the music outside

To kick off orchestra season, I trekked to Tulare last Saturday to enjoy some quality sounds from the Sequoia Symphony Orchestra (formerly known as the Tulare County Orchestra).

Every year, Tulare’s Zumwalt Park hosts Pops in the Park, a kid-friendly outdoor event with fun activities and great music. I’ve been looking for ways to introduce my kids to classical music, and this was the perfect way to do that. The symphony is generally for all ages, but Pops in the Park is the event to attend if you’re trying to ease young people into music appreciation.

First of all, there’s food. People brought picnics, and food trucks were on hand for those of us who didn’t pack a dinner. When I arrived, I made a beeline for the Quesadilla Gorilla food truck and enjoyed a cheese, bacon, and chicken quesadilla.

symphony orchestras

Behold, the ‘dilla that’s sweeping the Valley

My kids instantly swarmed the instrument “petting zoo.” Various instruments from oboes to cellos were on hand for kids to touch and even play.

Of course, my kids went right for the tuba. All in all, it was a noisy, educational experience, but I had cheese so I was feeling tolerant. I think I even clapped for their efforts, which looking back, was generous of me. There was also a bounce house and face painting—both great ways to build excitement for the evening’s concert.

symphony orchestras

It’s always a good day when you’re six and have access to a drum.

The concert began at eight with a whirlwind of strings and closed with John Philip Sousa (American march enthusiast and creator of the tuba-like sousaphone). Playing crowd favorites from animated films like How to Train Your Dragon and Moana, a festive atmosphere filled Zumwalt Park.

At one point, all the kids were offered light-up batons to wave in the darkness. After a short lesson from conductor Bruce Kiesling, they even helped to conduct a song.  

Families clapped along to marches and children ran around on the grass, whirling to music from the movie Grease. As a parent, it was nice to experience culture without having to worry about my kids’ behavior. I highly recommend this event for anyone with small kids and a desire to hear excellent music. 

symphony orchestras

Pops in the Park is an annual event, so you’ll have to wait awhile for the next one, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t plenty of other live music spectaculars to take advantage of until then.

This season, the Sequoia Symphony Orchestra will present concerts with a variety of themes, from next month’s “October is for Lovers” to December’s “Holiday Madness,” January’s “The Planets,” and “Movie Night: the music of John Williams” in February (more on him in a bit).

You can get all of the details on these shows on the symphony’s website here.

symphony orchestras

Indiana Jones, ET and Harry Potter—all in the same room

Speaking of John Williams, on Saturday, Sept. 16, the Fresno Philharmonic kicks off its season with a pops performance featuring his music, which kids (and adults) always love.

The composer of basically all of the movie music you loved growing up, Williams is responsible for the soundtracks of the Indiana Jones and Harry Potter movies, JAWS and Star Wars. John Williams is always a fan favorite, so tickets are selling fast.

If you’re interested in other Pops performances, the Fresno Phil will present “Home for the Holidays” in December and “Great Balls of Fire,” which features the music of Elton John, Billy Joel, Ray Charles, George Gershwin, Jerry Lee Lewis, in May (See? It’s not just music from the 18th century.)

Of course, if you’re looking for something a bit more traditional, there will also be concerts featuring music from the likes of Beethoven and Tchaikovsky, to name a couple. A list of upcoming Masterworks shows can be found here.

symphony orchestras

More information

There’s nothing like live music. Make sure to get your tickets for the Sequoia Symphony Orchestra when they go on sale Monday, Sept. 18. Performances are at the historic Fox Theater in Visalia. You can follow them on Facebook here.

Tickets for the Fresno Philharmonic, which holds performances at the Saroyan Theatre in Fresno, can be found here. They start at $25. Follow them on Facebook here.

Fresno + Etsy = Easy Online Local Shopping for Christmas

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Kendra Gilbert

Writer at FresYes.com
Kendra Gilbert is a writer born and raised in Clovis. She has written for publications from Boston to Los Angeles and loves writing about fashion and people most of all. The abbreviated list of things she enjoys outside of writing includes: thrifting, photography, harmonica, beer, movies, hiking and skee ball.
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Santa isn’t the only one making a list this time of year. While he’s busy checking off who’s naughty and nice, everyone living outside of the North Pole is making lists of what to get their loved ones for Christmas — regardless of their good or bad behavior. Often, those lists include gifts from local shops around town. But for those who prefer shopping online, finding locally-made treasures on the internet is a little harder to do.

Handmade marketplace Etsy is a great first stop to find unique gifts made by individuals and small businesses. But it’s also a crowded marketplace. In the past, FresYes has featured several local makers with shops on Etsy — The Painted Press, Make Pie Not War, and most recently, Natasha Holland’s handmade maps. But in the spirit of lists, and hopefully helping you check a couple items off yours, here is a guide to shopping local on Etsy this holiday season.

CRAFTS AND HOME DECOR

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The Rugged Heart – Fresno-based wood gifts and home decor shop. They even have a set of wood dinosaurs for the little guy in your life.

Project Wildflower – The local favorite for woven wall hangings and hand-made leather wall pockets is getting back up and running just in time for Christmas. Check out Instagram for updates on when the shop will be replenished, as items sell quick!

ART WORK AND PAPER GOODS

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Paper Thin Studio – Clovis-made paper goods that are so, so good.

Rob Carey Original Artwork – Watercolor sketches of people, places and things from Fresno and around the world.

MOMS, DADS, AND COUPLES

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Keep Life Simple Design – Mostly for engaged and married couples, this shop also has a little something for everyone when it comes to slogan t-shirts and gifts.

JEWELRY

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BlueJboutique7 – Simple, delicate and customizable jewelry out of Fresno. How cute is the puzzle piece necklace?

Ciscos Kids – Any little girl would love to have one of these fun necklaces.

Pressed Rose Jewelry Co – Pretty jewelry out of Visalia. Your teenage daughter would probably love the cactus suede choker/bolo necklace.

FOR THE GUYS

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Catkuma Patent Press – Can’t buy your guy a vintage motorcycle for Christmas? Then buy him one of these black and white patent prints of a vintage motorcycle. Or just about anything else.

FOR BABY

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All Lovely Made – Lovely, hand-made and personalized gifts for the tiniest tots. Based in Fresno.

BATH AND BEAUTY

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The Black Sheep Soap Co. – Clovis-made bath time goodies.

FresYes Fun: Easter events around the Valley

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Natali Carrera

Natali Carrera is a devoted coffee addict who also loves her twelve-year-old son, husband of 17 years and bargain hunting at Target. She works in the field of education and is also a freelance writer and YouTube vlogger (as a hobby). She's been told "bubbly" is the best descriptor of her personality, though she wonders if what people really mean is that she talks too much. Natali is a lifelong Fresno resident and Fresno State grad.

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If you’re looking for some family fun for the upcoming Easter weekend, you’re in luck because Fresno and the nearby surrounding areas have some great Easter egg hunts and events planned for you! The events listed below are open to the public, so take a look at the times and locations and choose the event(s) that work best for your family. Want to help make Easter fun for everyone? Contact any of the hunt organizers and offer to donate eggs for the hunts, I’m certain that would be a welcome act of kindness!

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Fresno Easter Egg Hunts and Activities:

Melody Park
(On Shields between Clovis and Fowler)
Special activities daily from 3pm – 7pm March 30 – April 3rd with an annual Easter Egg hunt on Tuesday, March 30th at 4:30pm. (Free)

Southgate Church
7249 E Kings Canyon Rd.
The Golden Egg Hunt held by Southgate church offers games, face painting, a photo booth and 2,000 filled eggs to find, lots of prizes, and refreshments. This event will be held from 10am – noon on Saturday, April 4th. (Free)

People’s Church
7172 N. Cedar Ave.
The Most-Eggcellent Easter Egg hunt will take place this Saturday in the North Field at People’s Church from 9am to 11am and offer 100,000 hidden candy-filled eggs!

Matthews Harley Davidson
555 N Abby St
Fun Easter activities planned throughout the day Saturday, April 4th. (Free)

Celebration Church (Fresno campus)
4842 W. Jacquelyn Ave.

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Offering candy, giveaways, games, prizes and an Easter Bunny meet and greet for everyone to enjoy. Hunts begin at 9am, 11am and 1pm on Easter Sunday, April 5th. (Free)

Fresno Chaffee Zoo
894 W. Belmont Ave.
Animal Eggspectations Enrichment Day at the Chaffee Zoo will take place on Saturday, April 4th from 9am – 6pm. Animals will participate in various Spring-themed and Easter enrichment activities while visitors enjoy the view. Zoo admission is $7 for adults and $3.50 for children ages 2-11. (Under 2 is free)

Outside of Fresno/Nearby Cities:

Clovis:
Action Community Church
Bicentennial Park
84 N. Sunnyside Ave.

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“This is a community event for our city, so EVERYONE is invited to be part of the fun. There will be a ginormous Easter egg hunt, inflatables, BBQ and all you can eat cotton candy!” (Saturday, April 4th from 11am – 1pm)

Celebration Church (Clovis campus)
100 W. Ashlan
Offering candy, giveaways, games, prizes and an Easter Bunny meet and greet for everyone to enjoy. Hunts begin at 9am, 11am and 1pm on Easter Sunday, April 5th. (Free)

Madera:
Flipside Church
(Event held at Liberty High School)
12220 Rd 36
Easter Egg Hunt to be held on Sunday, April 5th after the 10am service (so about 11am) with thousands of eggs to find! (Free)

Visalia:
Visalia Naz
3333 West Caldwell Avenue
Family fun, games and food from 9am – 12pm on Saturday, April 4th. (Free)