ROSEVILLE, Calif. — The 31st annual Mountain Mandarin Festival is moving from Auburn to Roseville, organizers announced.
The festival happens every November and typically takes place at the Gold Country Fairgrounds, but it will take place at @The Grounds in Roseville. It's scheduled from November 22-24.
Patrick Storm, a spokesperson for the festival, said the primary reason for the move was due to a rental increase between $16,000 and $20,000 at the fairgrounds.
"We're not ordering fruit from anywhere in California or Mexico, every fruit is handpicked and sold by the farmers at the festival," Storm said. "We're not celebrating mandarins, we're celebrating Placer County mandarins."
This isn't the first time the festival has changed locations. The festival started in Newcastle and moved to Auburn after it created too much traffic for the community.
"In a time when many festivals are facing challenges, the Mountain Mandarin Festival humbly strives to better serve our community. Relocating to @the Grounds in Roseville, we remain committed to celebrating the Placer County mandarin harvest with gratitude and dedication. Together, let's cultivate a spirit of togetherness and joy as we embrace our shared traditions and future endeavors," Gary Gilligan, the executive director of the festival, said in a statement.
There will be more than 250 vendors across the festival for people to enjoy Placer County Satsuma Mandarins. Storm said there is more parking at the location in Roseville and better accessibility for people.
Storm said those who want to ensure they get their hands on the orange fruit make sure to go early as the mandarins will sell out.
Mountain Mandarin Festival Schedule
Friday, Nov 22: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Saturday, Nov 23: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sunday, Nov 24: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
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