You Had Me at Lemon-Aid: All You Need to Know About the Upland Lemon Festival (Besides the Obvious)
Let's face it, folks, California has a festival for everything. From the wacky (artichoke, anyone?) to the wonderful (wine, cheese, yes please!), there's always a reason to celebrate in the Golden State. But if you're looking for a citrusy good time with a delightful twist, then the Upland Lemon Festival is calling your name (and your taste buds).
Hold on a sec, you say. When exactly does this lemony extravaganza take place?
Well, buckle up, buttercup, because the Upland Lemon Festival is a seasonal soirée. Unlike some festivals that cling on longer than a fruit fly at a picnic, this citrusy celebration takes place just once a year, typically in mid-June. Why June, you ask? Well, that's when those beautiful, puckery lemons are at their peak juiciness, ready to be transformed into everything from refreshing lemonade to mind-blowing lemon meringue pie.
But wait, there's more! The festival isn't just about the fruit (although, let's be honest, lemon is pretty darn amazing). It's a full-blown celebration of Upland's citrus heritage, with:
- Food vendors galore: We're talking everything from sweet and savory lemon treats to dishes that use lemons in ways you never thought possible (lemon-infused paella, anyone?)
- A carnival that's the zest of the fest: Rides, games, and enough cotton candy to fuel a small army (with a serious sugar crash later, but hey, that's part of the fun!)
- Live entertainment that's positivelytart: From local bands to the legendary "Lemon Idol" competition (yes, it's a real thing, and yes, you should totally enter), there's something for everyone.
So, how do you squeeze the most fun out of the Upland Lemon Festival?
Here are some tips:
- Hydrate: It's California, people. It's gonna be sunny. Drink plenty of water (and maybe some lemonade, for good measure).
- Wear comfy shoes: You'll be doing a lot of walking, checking out vendors, and dodging flying lemon meringue pie (hopefully not).
- Bring cash: Not all vendors may take plastic, and you'll definitely want that perfect lemon-themed souvenir.
- Embrace the pucker power: Lemons are tart, that's their thing. But that tang is what makes them so darn delicious. So go ahead, take a bite of that lemon bar, and enjoy the zing!
Alright, alright, you convinced me. I'm sold on the Upland Lemon Festival. But I still have a few questions...
How to get there? The festival takes place in historic downtown Upland. There's plenty of parking, or you can take Metrolink for an eco-friendly option.
How to find the best lemon treats? Follow your nose! Seriously, the aroma of lemony deliciousness will lead you right to the good stuff. But don't be afraid to wander and explore – you might just discover your new favorite lemon-infused creation.
How to win Lemon Idol? Practice your best lemon-themed song (think "Lemon Tree" by Fool's Garden, but get creative!), wear your most citrusy outfit, and project confidence (and maybe a little bit of zany humor).
How to avoid a lemon-related wardrobe malfunction? Maybe skip the white shirt? Just sayin'.
How to know when the next Upland Lemon Festival is? Keep an eye out on the festival's website (
So there you have it, folks! Your one-stop guide to the Upland Lemon Festival, a celebration that's sure to leave you feeling refreshed, entertained, and maybe just a little bit puckered (in the best way possible). Now go forth, embrace the citrusy goodness, and get ready for a lemony good time!
