Summers are buzzing with activity in dog-friendly Idyllwild, with many special events that go on every year in June, July and August. You can visit extraordinary art galleries and other musical venues on any day, including our world class restaurants, where musicians can be heard in many locations. Here are a few of my favorite events this summer. I hope to see you there!
Idyllwild Art in the Park
May 27–28, June 10, July 1–2, July 22, August 5, September 2–3; 10am–5pm
Highway 243, Idyllwild, CA
idyllwildartinthepark.com
Held outside in the beautiful forest, Idyllwild Art in the Park is the perfect combination of art and nature. Idyllwild Art in the Park offers an eclectic mix of ceramics, paintings, glass, jewelry, woodworking, photography, fibers, live music and more, created by fabulous artists for your viewing, listening and shopping pleasure.
Third Annual Paws for Rhythm & Brews
June 3; Noon–4pm
Idyllwild Nature Center
25225 Hwy 243, Idyllwild, CA
arfbeerfest.com
Attend this wonderful fundraiser for Idyllwild Animal Rescue Friends (ARF) at the Idyllwild Nature Center. You will enjoy the day with craft beer, a live band, dancing, food vendors and family entertainment. We especially love the beer stein competition. When you attend this fun event, the purchase of your ticket(s) will help save many awesome pets in need.
Editor’s note: Most of the Nature Center is dog-friendly; however, please check with the docent about specific rules and regulations prior to bringing your dog. There is an additional entry fee for dogs.
Lemon Lily Festival, Eighth Annual
June 24 and 25, 10am–4pm
Idyllwild Nature Center
25225 Hwy 243, Idyllwild, CA
(951) 659-3850
lemonlilyfestival.com
Enjoy visiting the Lemon Lily Festival at the Idyllwild Nature Center on June 24 and 25. This year’s festival includes folk music, pony rides, a children’s pioneer town, crafts and vendors of all varieties, and special guided hikes to see blooming lemon lilies in the wild.
Editor’s note: Most of the Nature Center is dog-friendly; however, please check with the docent about specific rules and regulations prior to bringing your dog. There is an additional entry fee for dogs.
Idyllwild’s 51st Annual Independence Day Parade
4th of July; 10:00am
North Circle Drive, Idyllwild, CA
idyrotaryparade@ yahoo.com
Chuck Weisbart, (760) 578-3592
The Idyllwild Rotary is proud to present Idyllwild’s 51st Annual Independence Day Parade! Arrive early, as the parade always starts on time at 10:00am. You can even set up your chairs along North Circle Drive the night before.
Enjoy this patriotic occasion and travel back in time to an old-fashioned 4th of July. You will experience the best of small-town Americana.
Your well-behaved pet is welcome to attend—don’t forget sunscreen, a water bowl and pick-up bags!
Not pet-friendly (but fun!):
Plein Air Outdoor Painting Competition
June 10–11, Middle Ridge Winery Tasting Gallery, 54301 N Circle Drive, Idyllwild, CA
Jazz in the Pines
August 11, 6:00pm, Patrons Dinner and Dance; August 12–13, 11am–5:30pm, Performances, Idyllwild Arts, 52500 Temecula Road, Idyllwild, CA 92549, (951) 468-7210, jazzinfo@idyllwildarts.org
Meet Mayor Max
and Deputy Mayors
Mitzi and Mikey
On any day in Idyllwild, you can meet not only Mayor Max but also his deputies Mitzi and Mikey. If you’d like to set up a time to say hello, please contact Mayor Max’s Chief of Staff, Phyllis Mueller, (951) 659-0283 or mayormax.com.
Our charter as Idyllwild’s elected mayor and deputies is to convey unconditional love and do as many good deeds for others as possible. So we promise to always love you. We can’t wait to meet you!
Love always,
Mayor Max & Deputy Mayors Mitzi and Mikey