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For nearly three decades, Downtown Chula Vista’s Lemon Festival has celebrated the city’s agricultural heritage while drawing thousands of residents and visitors to Third Avenue for a day of food, entertainment and family fun
The free event returns Saturday, Aug. 15, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., transforming downtown into a citrus-themed celebration with live music, lemon-inspired treats, arts and crafts vendors, children’s activities and interactive experiences.
The 29th annual Lemon Festival honors a time when Chula Vista was known as the “Lemon Capital of the World.” During the early 1900s, thousands of acres of lemon groves helped shape the city’s economy and identity. While those groves have largely disappeared, the event continues to celebrate that legacy.
“The Lemon Festival has remained a beloved tradition because it celebrates what makes Chula Vista unique: its history, its local businesses, and its strong sense of community,” said Dominic Li Mandri, district manager of the Downtown Chula Vista Association. “It is an event that generations of families have grown up attending while also welcoming new visitors each year.”
Li Mandri said the festival gives longtime residents an opportunity to reconnect with the city’s agricultural roots while introducing newcomers to an important part of Chula Vista’s history.
“The Lemon Festival serves as a celebration of Chula Vista’s agricultural heritage and reminds people of the role the citrus industry played in shaping our city,” he said. “Through themed activations, local lemon-inspired vendors, and family friendly programming, we have an opportunity to share that story in a fun and engaging way.”
Returning visitors will find several new attractions this year along with familiar favorites. The pie-eating contest returns to the Main Stage for its second year, while the popular 7 Mile Dance Stage will once again feature performances by local dance groups.
Guests can also participate in an interactive art project using thermochromatic paint presented by San Diego Community Power, admire lemon-inspired chalk art, pose at a lemon orchard photo backdrop and receive a free lemon from Sprouts while supplies last.
The event also features the Little Lemons children’s area in Memorial Park with games and activities, three stages of live entertainment, local vendors and appearances by festival mascot Tarty the Lemon.
According to Li Mandri, the festival provides an important boost to businesses throughout downtown.
“The Lemon Festival brings thousands of visitors directly onto Third Avenue, creating opportunities for restaurants, retailers, and service businesses to introduce themselves to new customers while reconnecting with longtime supporters,” he said.
“Beyond the immediate economic impact, the festival encourages people to explore downtown, discover new favorite businesses, and return throughout the year.”
The 29th annual Lemon Festival will be held Saturday, Aug. 15, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. along Third Avenue in downtown Chula Vista. Admission is free.
