Small businesses are considered the backbone and heart of the economy. They bring the community together and help keep profits local – directly benefiting a city’s economy. Taxes from small businesses are transferred back into the parks, schools and services that are the foundation of a thriving community. For every dollar spent at a small business in the United States, approximately 67 cents stays in the local community. 

Small Business Saturday is also a great chance for small business owners to boost sales before the end of the year. While shoppers are used to hurrying to big department stores to cash in on Black Friday deals, Small Business Saturday encourages a more intimate shopping experience at local stores. 

This Saturday, November 26, 2022 you can celebrate Small Business Saturday in Carlsbad Village to boost awareness and support for local small businesses in Carlsbad. Shoppers can enjoy specials and discounts from almost every locally owned store in the Village. To add to it, there will be a hospitality booth from 10am to 5pm at the corner of Grand Ave. and State St. which will be giving away:

– $1,500 worth of dining gift cards

– Shop Small and Carlsbad logo tote bags to the first 100 people

– Reusable City of Carlsbad tote bags while supplies last

– Carlsbad swag

Check out of these local Carlsbad stores to find great gifts for the holidays and support businesses in the Village that serve our city:

Trove Marketplace 

Trove Marketplace is located in the heart of downtown Carlsbad. The shop is full of unique treasures with collections ranging from furniture and home decor to candles, jewelry and clothing. The eclectic mixture of unique gifts include everything from hand painted ornaments and charms to mermaid themed beach souvenirs. When it comes to holiday shopping, The Trove has everything you need to kick off holiday gift giving.

Stop by on Small Business Saturday for storewide discounts.

Village Rock Shop 

The Village Rock Shop was created by local entrepreneur Xenia Mateui. When she started the store, she knew that there was something special about the magical world of crystals but wasn’t sure just what. Today, Xenia’s shop is a place where local artisans can gather and share ideas. Shoppers will find a vast selection of hand-made products like natural candles, holiday earrings, aromatherapy sprays and dreamcatchers with gemstones.

The Village Rock Shop takes pride in ensuring that their crystals are of the best quality. Gems are sourced from around the world and offered at reasonable prices. Visit the Village Rock Shop on Small Business Saturday for 15% off, storewide.

Status Skate Shop

Skate culture is akin to surf culture in Carlsbad. For skaters who frequent the Carlsbad Skate Park or the Alga Norte Skatepark, Status Skateshop is a one stop shop for top of the line boards and accessories. Located in the heart of Carlsbad Village, Status is home to skateboards, longboards and one wheelers. Surfskates, fingerboards and kids boards are available as well.

Visit Status Skate Shop on Small Business Saturday for 10% off of some of the top brands in the industry including Alien Workshop, Element, Dogwood, Toy Machine, Shorty’s, Bamboo Skateboards, Onewheel Pint and much more. You even can grab protective gear, apparel and accessories while you’re at it. 

Retail Therapy Boutique 

Retail therapy is a thing, and at the Retail Therapy Boutique, owner Meghan Scholl has worked in retail for over 20 years and knows the benefits of retail therapy beyond the simple experience of shopping. When Meghan experienced the loss of both friends and family members in 2011, she found clarity in her love of clothes and realized that she wanted to offer the joy of retail with her community. 

In 2014, Retail Therapy Boutique opened with the goal to become a top destination for women who are searching for a unique place to shop for clothing, jewelry and gifts. Nestled in the Carlsbad Village, Retail Therapy Boutique is an outlet for the optimism and positivity that Meghan brings to her shop.

Make a purchase at the Retail Therapy Boutique this Small Business Saturday for a free gift.

Famulare Jewelers

During the holidays, jewelry is the key to the heart of someone special in your life. When you find a good jeweler, you can be certain that you’re purchasing a gift that will last for years. At Famulare Jewelers, a true passion for jewelry is seen in every piece that is for sale. Rita Famulare is a Graduate Gemologist from Calrsbad’s own GIA. She is committed to serving her customers and goes out of her way to find and customize jewelry for any request that comes through the door.

If you’re looking for jewelry this holiday season, visit Rita at Famulare Jewelers this Small Business Saturday for 20% off any purchase. 

Humble Olive Oils 

When you have a good product, there’s no need to be humble. Don’t be fooled by the name at Humble Olive Oils – their selection of oils and vinegars are some of the best in the city. They are family owned and operated, located on State Street in downtown Carlsbad.  Their olive oils are sourced from both hemispheres, so that their products are of the finest quality every season of the year. 

Shop premium extra virgin olive oils, infused olive oils and aged balsamic vinegars this Small Business Saturday and receive a free gift with a purchase of $25 or more.

Blues and Shoes 

With the right pair of jeans and fashionable footwear, you can show up anywhere with confidence. Blues and Shoes is a cute boutique in Carlsbad Village that features accessories, clothing and shoes at a reasonable price. Inventory is sourced from fashion events around the country and on Small Business Saturday, shoppers can receive even deeper discounts on holiday fashion with 25% off of full price items and 50% off redline items.

Beach City Smoothies 

Local shopping also means local dining. Beach City Smoothies is centrally located in Carlsbad Village, and they specialize in 100% vine ripened fruit smoothies. If you need a break from holiday shopping and refreshment to pick you up, swing by Beach City Smoothies for a relaxed beach atmosphere and delicious acai bowls, organic veggie juices and grab n’ go snacks.

Beach City Smoothies has been around since 2006 and is locally owned by Carlsbad resident Mary Jacobson. She takes pride in their ‘delicious and nutritious’ pure fruit smoothies and is committed to giving everyone who visits a fun and memorable experience. Grab a smoothie and mention Small Business Saturday on November 26 to receive 10% off all smoothies. 

The post Make Small Business Saturday a Success in Carlsbad – Saturday, November 26, 2022 appeared first on Visit Carlsbad.

The reality is that when you visit the coast, the delicious seafood that you get to enjoy comes from local sources. In Southern California, certain delicacies like sand dabs are unique. The more common seafood inventory is obtained directly from the Pacific Ocean or from controlled environments to cultivate aquatic organisms called aquafarms. Similar to agriculture, aquaculture is in the business of fish, not livestock. The farm-to-table process of aquaculture starts with hatcheries and employs many different processes to ensure that seafood is safe and ethically produced. 

Many of our oceans have experienced overfishing. As natural resources continue to wane, alternate sources are increasingly important. Aquaculture fills in the gap of decreasing seafood supply responsibly and sustainably. It provides lower greenhouse gas emissions than other types of farming and higher protein retention compared to more popular livestock like beef, pork, and chicken. 

If you’ve driven alongside the coast in Carlsbad, you might have seen large rows of structures in the water opposite the ocean. These are a part of Carlsbad’s very own Aquafarm. The entrance is accessible via Carlsbad Blvd, across from lifeguard beach Tower 30. 

The Carlsbad Aquafarm concentrates on shellfish. They house an R&D function in collaboration with USC’s Wrigley Marine Lab and are committed to breeding ‘better oysters for a changing ocean’. With a new majority of seafood coming from aquaculture, the Carlsbad Aquafarm knows that seafood farming needs to be done sustainability and without harm to the surrounding environment. 

Starting back in the 1950’s, the incorporation of Carlsbad started looking into aquaculture to improve the ecological health of the Carlsbad lagoon. They quickly found that shellfish were a key element for a healthy lagoon. Fast forward to today and the Aquafarm has carried that finding into the values and vision of their work. They measure their work by the quality of their seafood and the ecological health of the lagoon and are deeply invested in preserving the coastal environment by growing shellfish in harmony with natural marine surroundings. The Aquafarm strives to maintain and protect the historic waterfront of Carlsbad and surrounding habitats. 

The floating farm itself produces crops of oysters and mussels with a structure that can withstand strong tidal currents. The shellfish are submerged above the seafloor with anchored floats in trays so that predatory species and contaminants can’t reach them. Through morning harvests and tumbling that mimics tidal flows, the oysters are triple purified to ensure the utmost quality and safety. 

If you want to go visit the Aquafarm for yourself, farm tours and tastings are available. Tickets include a one-hour experience where you can discover the techniques used to grow and harvest homegrown oysters and learn about sustainable shellfish farming practices firsthand. They also include hands-on learning with an oyster shucking demonstration where you can enjoy fresh oysters with hot sauce, lemons, and water. 

In the village by the sea, the sea gives us abundant life. Visit the Carlsbad Aquafarm to learn more about what’s beneath the surface.    

The post Sustainable Vitamin Sea at the Carlsbad Aquafarm appeared first on Visit Carlsbad.

If you’re looking for a vacation that has the beauty of the Pacific Ocean and a lookout over the largest ranunculus bloom in the country, consider booking a stay at the Cassara Carlsbad. The Tapestry Collection by Hilton offers luxurious getaways built on the artistry and relaxation of their surrounding landscapes. Whether you’re on the east coast, in a neighboring street, or even right up the road in Oceanside – Carlsbad has all of the things that make a vacation feel new every time.

The Property

The Flower Fields at Carlsbad is a crowning jewel of the city. From March 1st through Mother’s Day, the Flower Fields bloom 50 acres of extraordinary color that can’t be found anywhere else. The Giant Tecolote Ranunculus flowers have been specially curated over 85 years of cultivation, transforming the rolling hills of the North San Diego coastline into a coordinated display of color and beauty. And, the Cassara Carlsbad sits atop the hills with VIP seating above the magnificent fields.

With 12 acres of its own, the Cassara is perched above the Carlsbad Flower Fields with LEGOLAND and the Carlsbad beaches right across the road. There is a complimentary shuttle to the Carlsbad Premium Outlets and the beaches. The property also features a fitness center, two resort pools, and a family splash pad for kids.

The Amenities

In addition to the pools and fitness center, the Cassara boasts a number of luxury amenities for a memorable stay. There is free wifi, room service, a fully equipped business center, golf, and an onsite restaurant. The Cassara Carlsbad Kitchen & Bar offers Mediterranean-inspired cuisine with elegant decor and European charm. The restaurant is located in the grand lobby, with easy access to the pool and views of the Pacific Ocean.

The Rooms

The rooms at the Cassara embrace Southern California coastal charm and European elegance all at the same time. Each of the guest rooms and suites has been remodeled to feature brand new furniture, classic wood accents, and sharp lines framed by cooling Mediterranean colors and architecture. Luxury bedding, down comforters, and pillows are available in every room and beds range from standard kings to double queens with partial ocean views. The suites offer things like parlor rooms, working stations, twin beds for kids, and balconies or patios.

The Tapestry Collection by Hilton boasts spectacular accommodations with exquisite decor and service that can’t be beaten. The Cassara Carlsbad showcases all of these things and more. Plan your next vacation at the Cassara Carlsbad for luxury, views, and relaxation that can’t be matched. Book a room today!

The post Celebrate Summer at the Cassara Carlsbad appeared first on Visit Carlsbad.

Today, there are over 1,200 wineries in California, and our love of wine is as strong as ever. In Carlsbad, the Southern California wineries of Temecula are a short drive away. Normally, our city is home to the California Wine Festival. Due to the pandemic, the festival has been postponed to 2022. Fortunately, there are many award winning tasting rooms in Carlsbad to try in the meantime.

La Costa Wine Co.

As the name implies, La Costa Wine Co. is a winery that is invested in the community they live in. They are locally owned and operated and take pride in playing an active part in the neighborhood that they call home. Their love of locally sourced wine is coupled with a mission to meet their community where they are. They seek to provide access to good wine – regardless of budget. By removing the pretense that lies beneath the surface of many high end wineries, La Costa Wine Co. makes drinking wine fun and inspiring, no matter where you come from.

The tasting room and bar is open every day of the week except for Mondays from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. They feature tasting events throughout the month, including $10 flights on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. The bar has a delicious outdoor menu including flatbreads, cheese boards, and panini’s to accompany the wine.

Carruth Cellars

In recent years, Carruth Cellars has taken San Diego by storm. The concept of an ‘Urban Winery & Tasting Room’ is a fresh take on wine drinking amidst a county that is jam packed with local breweries.

The Carlsbad location is a fashionable mix of outdoor seating, industrial vibes, and chic decor. Open from 1 p.m. – 8 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 1 p.m. – 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Carruth Cellars takes pride in sourcing wine from the country and serving it in ‘the city’. During the pandemic, they have expanded their offerings and now have Coastal Wine Tasting Tours with a private van ride that stops at all three of the San Diego tasting rooms. Their ‘Pay it Forward’ program sells bottles of wine that benefit the community. A portion of the proceeds for each ‘Pay it Forward’ bottle goes towards a local non-profit. Chief owner and winemaker, Adam Carruth, was born and raised in Carlsbad and attended Carlsbad High School. He started making wine in his backyard in North County and has now brought his love of California wines to his own neighborhood.

Witch Creek Winery

Another urban winery that has been around since 1993 is Witch Creek Winery. They made their home in Carlsbad in 1996 and have been here ever since. The Witch Creek Winery tasting room is ornate and homey. It has exposed lightbulbs hanging alongside ornate chandeliers, stained wood countertops and rustic chairs.

Witch Creek serves drinkable, friendly wines. Guests can enjoy live music, antique furniture and Sleeping Tiger Coffees while enjoying award winning Cabernet Sauvignon or Barbera. A tasting flight of six of Witch Creek’s own wines starts at $14 and the tasting room is open Sunday through Thursday from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m., Friday 12 p.m. – 8 p.m. and Saturday from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Little Oaks Winery

For private appointment-only wine tasting, Little Oaks Winery is the place to go. Little Oaks was started by Rich Sportsman. He lived in Palo Alto and started winemaking by repurposing the surplus of apricots in his backyard for dry white apricot wine. From there, his interest grew and he started making grape wines. As early as 2010, Rich’s wines started receiving awards from the Ramona Valley Vineyard Association.

Today, the Little Oaks Winery has a rolling selection of handcrafted vintage varietals. Their grapes are all sourced from the greater San Diego area and their Merlots, Syrahs, and Malbecs are all available for purchase.

The California Wine Festival might not be an option this year, but Carlsbad’s tasting rooms are open and ready for business. Stop by any one of these great wineries to experience why wine is such a hit in our golden state.

The post Where to Wine this Spring appeared first on Visit Carlsbad.

In Southern California, May and June are known for gray skies and a shifting marine layer as locals enjoy more mild weather. In Carlsbad, the old adage ‘April showers bring May flowers’ hits a little bit differently. The Flower Fields wrap their season in May, ending on a high note following Mother’s Day. Luckily, Southern California does not encounter the fate of being stuck inside during the winter months. The sunny skies and moderate weather are a lifesaver during the pandemic. Now that vaccinations are more widely available, we’re approaching the summer with hope in the air.

On May 6th, the city updated guidelines for residents and visitors. These milestones come right before the Memorial Day weekend, and show how far the city has come since the start of it all:

– Outdoor gatherings at parks are now allowed for up to 50 people

– Starting the week of May 10th, libraries will stay open two hours longer each day that they are open. In addition, the Georgina Cole Library will be open for visitors on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

– On May 17, community centers will be open for longer hours, 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., Monday through Friday

– On May 24, all libraries will be open six days a week, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday

– On May 25, Carlsbad’s sculpture garden will have its first new exhibit in over a year.

– The Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park will host its first wedding in over a year at the end of this month.

Food service was hit hard during the pandemic. Restaurants implemented outdoor seating, installed plexiglass between tables, and put limits on how many people they serve. Now that vaccinations are available, the city plans to allow restaurants to be fully operational by mid-June. In the meantime, here are some restaurants that have outdoor seating and are open today:

Beach Plum Kitchen

Campfire

Canyons

Chandler’s Restaurant & Lounge

Fresco Trattoria & Bar

Gregorio’s Restaurant

Harbor Fish Cafe

Knockout Pizza

Luna Grill

Paon Restaurant & Wine Bar

Pollos Maria

Senor Grubby’s

Skyline Cafe

Sub Zero

Swami’s Cafe

The Compass

The Daily News

The Landings at Carlsbad

Tin Leaf Kitchen

Tommy V’s Urban Kitchen & Bar

Twenty/20 Grill & Wine Bar

Vigilucci’s Seafood & Steakhouse

Vinaka Cafe

Our city has come a long way since the pandemic began, and there is still a way to go. Luckily, we are resilient, and our city is diverse and active as ever. Keep safety precautions in mind and explore the neighborhood – there is so much to see and do.

The post Look at How Far We’ve Come appeared first on Visit Carlsbad.

Memorial Day wasn’t technically celebrated in the U.S. until the late 19th century. The day commemorates exactly what it is named for – honoring those who have fallen in battle. One of the earliest arranged celebrations of fallen soldiers was organized by freed slaves. At the end of the Civil War, thousands of Union soldiers perished as prisoners of war. After the Confederate surrender, recently freed slaves and regiments of the U.S. Colored Troops gathered to provide a proper burial ground for their fellow soldiers. Approximately three years later, the commander-in-chief of the Union veteran’s Grand Army of the Republic issued a decree that designated May 30 as the nationwide day of memorial for the hundreds of thousands of soldiers that lost their lives in the Civil War. It officially became a federal holiday in 1971. Now, Memorial Day continues to honor veterans who have honorably served our country.  As a summer rite of passage and, more importantly, a day to remember – Memorial Day is a day to kick back, relax, and recall all of the sacrifices that those who came before us made.

Here are some ways to celebrate Memorial Day in Carlsbad this year:

Book a Stay at a Carlsbad Resort or Hotel

No matter what time of year you visit, the city of Carlsbad is a prime getaway destination. For Memorial Day, the coastline offers tourists a place to soak in the unique springtime sunsets of the west coast.

One of Carlsbad’s premier resorts, the Westin Carlsbad Resort & Spa recently reopened to locals and travelers. The resort has panoramic ocean views, two signature restaurants, pools, and ample outdoor space. For a limited time, guests can take advantage of a couple of different springtime discounts. Current packages include tickets to the Flower Fields and complimentary bicycles from the resort to get there. Through Memorial Weekend only, guests can hop on and off the Ride the Tide shuttle provided by the Westin. This open air-beach trolley drops guests off at destinations within a five-mile radius of the resort.

The Beach Terrace Inn is also running an enticing springtime deal that is perfect for Memorial Day weekend. Their Spring Revival pricing gives guests up to 20% off on various accommodations. These specials are a perfect excuse to shake off the winter chill and honor the holiday with a beach getaway that won’t break the bank.

For a luxury stay at an award-winning resort spa with eight sparkling pools and two championship golf courses – you can also consider booking a stay at the Omni La Costa Resort and Spa. For Memorial Day, guests can cash in on the Escape and Save package for up to 15% off when staying two nights or more.

Host a BBQ and Support Local Carlsbad Businesses

Modern-day Memorial Day festivities usually include good food, good drinks, and friends and family to match. For Memorial Day this year, many restaurants have reopened with takeaway options to support outdoor get-togethers.

If you are hosting a backyard barbeque for Memorial Day, or just want to kick back and enjoy a quiet meal outside – try any one of these options for a tasty summertime meal without the prep work:

– Park 101
– Notorious BBQ
– Felix’s BBQ with Soul
– Burger Lounge
– Pure Burger
– Eureka

Enjoy the Great Outdoors

Alongside booking your stay, BBQs, and bike rides – Carlsbad beaches are a free way to enjoy the long weekend and experience the beauty of the coast.

Carlsbad has over 7 miles of pristine beaches, and each has something new to see. From expansive cliffs and drop-offs to boardwalks and sandy terraces – pack a beach chair and head to South Carlsbad State Beach or Tamarack Surf Beach to soak up the sun this Memorial Day.

Rouleur Brewing Memorial Day Ride

If bicycling is your thing, this year’s Memorial Day Ride is a fun way to pay homage to fallen soldiers and support one of Carlsbad’s local breweries all at the same time.

Rouleur Brewery was built on the love of cycling and a foundation of the principles that cycling is founded on. In French, ‘Rouleur’ quite literally translates to ‘having wheels’. They brew their beer with the balance and precision that comes with their name. On Memorial Day, the brewery is hosting its first official ride in over a year. They are offering two options for this year’s ride: gravel and pavement. Coffee will be available in the tasting room starting at 7 a.m. and beer will be available starting at 11 a.m. A food truck will also be onsite for sustenance after the ride.

Holidays are a reminder to celebrate important moments in history. On Memorial Day, use the three-day weekend to remember all of the fallen soldiers that have shaped our past and continue to shape our future.

The post Memorial Day 2021 in Carlsbad appeared first on Visit Carlsbad.

The 11th Annual Small Business Saturday will take place on November 28th. While group gatherings are limited by the health pandemic, the typical main street experience will be transformed into a new and exciting way to interact with small businesses in the Village. The Carlsbad Village Association has set up an interactive Treasure Hunt that will enable guests to explore downtown. The game will keep safety measures in place while encouraging participants to learn more about the businesses, learn about the Village’s history, and experience some iconic landmarks in a new way.

The Treasure Hunt will take place from November 13th through the end of the Small Business Saturday weekend (11:59 p.m. on November 29th). It gives guests the ability to complete the hunt at their own pace while socially distancing. To participate, all you have to do is download the game card to get started. The card has a variety of tasks and questions that will require players to explore downtown in order to find the answers. After a minimum of 13 questions and/or tasks have been completed, participants can be entered into a contest to win a $50 gift card to one of Carlsbad’s local businesses.

If participants complete all of the questions and tasks on the game card, they will be entered into a Grand Prize drawing. The Grand Prize will be given to two different winners. One will receive a $100 gift card to a Village restaurant of their choice and the other will receive a gift card basket valued at $100 to Village Faire Shopping Center businesses. The entire Treasure Hunt can be completed at your own pace, and free of large gatherings. Submissions can be done remotely, by emailing event@calrsbad-village.com with a name, email, phone number, and legible answers. Winners will be chosen at random and winners will be announced on Wednesday, December 2nd.

On Small Business Saturday itself, the Carlsbad Village Association will be hosting a booth with a photo op for the interactive Treasure Hunt, as well as Small Business Saturday swag, and a last chance to take part in this year’s one-of-a-kind interactive game.

In a world of uncertainty, Carlsbad small businesses have stepped up to sustain the heart of our downtown. Over 17 local businesses have graciously contributed to Small Business Saturday, donating $1,000 worth of prizes towards purchases from small businesses in Carlsbad Village.

Shopping at small businesses makes an impact in the community. On Small Business Saturday, you can “Shop Small,” support local business owners, get a jump start on holiday gift giving, and participate in the Treasure Hunt to learn more about all of the things that make Carlsbad Village great.

The post A Safe New Twist on Small Business Saturday 2020 appeared first on Visit Carlsbad.

Westin

Westin hotels are known throughout the country for their contemporary and modern accommodations. The Westin Carlsbad Resort & Spa is a coastal Mediterranean sanctuary that embodies the beauty of Carlsbad and the surrounding coast. The Resort & Spa is a large venue that can easily host up to 500 guests. There are two charming and exquisite options for outdoor ceremonies. The Pacific lawn has a natural canopy of towering palm trees that is accented by the Mediterranean architecture of the surrounding resort. The Ocean Blue Lawn is a window to the sea and is surrounded by tropical fauna and white roses. The Palm Courtyard is the perfect spot for a reception, surrounding guests with the calming sound of running water. For more formal affairs, the resort has The Sunset Ballroom and Grand Pacific Ballroom. The staff offers many levels of wedding planning services and will help ensure that the stress of organizing accommodations, catering and bartending, and rentals are taken care of. The event team can also help with setup and cleanup on the big day.

Cape Rey

The Cape Rey, Carlsbad Beach is a Hilton Resort & Spa. It is located along the coast and offers everything a bride or groom could hope for in a beach themed wedding. The ocean view lawn and terraces provide a beautiful backdrop that accentuates the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean. The luxury resort offers an out-of-this world menu that is sourced locally and showcases some of Carlsbad’s best culinary experts. Couples can rest assured that weather won’t be a factor because Cape Rey has the option for covered outdoor space or indoor space. Whether you prefer a quaint garden gazebo or a waterfront ceremony with ocean breezes, Cape Rey offers both and can accommodate up to 300 guests.

Hilton Carlsbad Oceanfront, Meeting Rooms

Leo Carrillo Ranch

Being able to incorporate history and old school charm into your wedding day is a unique opportunity to weave creativity into your theme. At Leo Carrillo Ranch, couples can say ‘I do’ on the grounds of the rustic 1939 historical ranch and use the existing buildings and grounds to host up to 300 guests. The ranch itself lends effortlessly to vintage chic decor complete with keyhole backs, lanterns, reclaimed wood, and shiplap accents. The venue is the perfect location for an intimate fun celebration. The all-inclusive wedding packages offer everything from the ceremony and reception venue, Fruitwood folding chairs and dining tables, floor length linens and coordinated napkins, glassware, and china to onsite staff and games for guests.

The Crossings at Carlsbad

The Crossings at Carlsbad exudes all of the things that people love about Carlsbad. The lush green golf courses and valleys are accompanied by views of the ocean. The venue has a 28,000 square foot clubhouse and ceremony site that brings the beauty of the outdoors in. Exposed beams and tasteful table layouts vibe with rustic and vintage themes as well as elegant formal celebrations. Couples can choose from using the ballroom, beach, restaurant, or tented outdoor accommodations for their big day. The venue can hold up to 250 guests and has the ability to provide food and catering, event planning, bars and drinks.

The post Four Amazing Places to Say, ‘I Do’ In Carlsbad appeared first on Visit Carlsbad.

Lobster meat is chock full of protein and low on calories. In Colonial times, there were so many of these crustaceans in the northeast that they were considered poor man’s food. They were cheap, served as sustenance to prisoners and servants, and even used as fishing bait and to feed livestock. Since then, people have come to love the slightly sweat and chewy texture of the tender meat and it has become much scarcer to come by. Now, ordering lobster signifies special occasions and serves as a centerpiece for fancy meals. The crustacean is so endeared that people have devoted a National Holiday to the animal. Celebrate National Lobster Day this June 15^th by visiting one of Carlsbad’s many seafood restaurants and treat yourself to a plate of one the most delicious offerings the sea has to offer.

Bluewater Grill

Bluewater Grill is a favorite nautically themed seafood restaurant in Carlsbad. The restaurant prides itself on the freshest sustainable seafood around. Since taking the space from Fish House Vera Cruz, the location has been expanded and updated. It now houses a market, full bar, and space for pets. On National Lobster Day, Bluewater Grill is reconnecting with their New England roots and highlighting the king of all seafood sandwiches, the Lobster Roll. Warm Maine lobster, chopped celery and onions, and light mayo will be served atop an iconic “pull apart” buttered brioche bun. The Bluewater Lobster Bowl and cup of house made New England Clam Chowder will also be available for just $20, a full $10 savings off the combined menu prices.

West Steak and Seafood

West Steak and Seafood is a distinctive restaurant that takes the meaning of farm to table to heart and delivers it straight to Carlsbad’s doorstep. The fine dining establishment offers the best of land and sea with vegetables straight from their own farm. For National Lobster Day, you can’t choose a fancier location to dine on than crispy lobster spring rolls, Maine lobster bisque, lobster mac and cheese, or South African lobster tails.

King’s Fish House

If you ever drive by King’s Fish House, then you can’t miss their vintage neon sign. The word “Fresh” jumps out and the sign welcomes passersby, with a friendly alert letting them know “Your Ship Came In”. Beyond the lighted sign is the restaurant itself. It has recently undergone extensive renovation, making it a brand-new experience for repeat visitors and newcomers alike. King’s Fish House was founded on a deep love of seafood and the camaraderie that it builds. From fish markets to coastal villages, the founders of King’s Fish House gathered all of the best tricks of the trade and created a spot where guests could rely on fresh seafood every time. You can indulge in the Wild Alaskan Halibut or Wild Mexican Yellowtail year-round, but on National Lobster Day make it a point to dive in and go all out with the Wild North American Hard-Shelled Lobster. You won’t be disappointed.

Book a lunch or dinner reservation at any of these locations to make the most of the National Lobster Day on June 15th.

The post Where to Celebrate One Shell of a Creature on National Lobster Day appeared first on Visit Carlsbad.

On May 20th, LEGOLAND will be turning 20 and kicking off a year full of celebration and a party that will make guests feel like it’s their birthday too. The park has accomplished many things since its birth, and the celebration is a way to honor the ways in which LEGOLAND has positively impacted the kids they serve and the communities they live in. What was once 12 rides and Miniland U.S.A has grown to over 60 rides and adjacent attractions like the SEA LIFE aquarium and LEGOLAND Water Park. To kick off the yearlong celebration, the park will be adorned with all kinds of colorful birthday decorations. A huge LEGO cake constructed out of more than 51 thousand LEGO bricks and standing over seven-feet tall will greet guests and provide a backdrop for the confetti, balloons and streamers sprinkled throughout the park.

The first 1,000 kids entering the park will receive a free child-size Minifigure hands and will get to experience a park opening ceremony with LEGO characters, photo ops, entertainers, music and stilt walkers. The giant LEGO cake will showcase all of the attractions that have been added to the park over the years. LEGO lovers can take a moment to recognize all of the fun moments LEGOLAND has been a part of before hopping on the park’s newest ride, the LEGO City Deep Sea Adventure submarine ride.

From May 20 through September 1st, the fun will continue with daily birthday themed entertainment. Children under the age of 12 will receive free admission on their birthday all year long. Guests can party through their visit with interactive Dance Parties, desserts, a LEGO friends birthday show that will provide kids the chance to jam out for Mayor Heartlake’s birthday celebration concert.

Don’t miss the chance to say ‘Happy Birthday’ to one of Carlsbad’s favorite landmarks this year. 2019 will launch a variety of new attractions including the LEGO City 4D Officer in Pursuit adventure, the recreation of the DUPLO Playtown, and the addition of a brand-new LEGOLAND Express train. Get your tickets now!

The post LEGOLAND Turns 20 This Month appeared first on Visit Carlsbad.