|
|
Greetings!
The Holiday season has arrived. With that comes fun events, beautiful snow capped mountains and an excuse to go explore with friends and family. Read on for all the fun things to see and do this month, as well as ways you can stay in California's Gateway for less!
Sincerely,
Jarrod Lyman
Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau
|
Time to light the tree
Christmas tree lightings around California's Gateway 
What better way to ring in the Holidays than to gather with others around a giant Christmas tree? You'll have plenty of opportunities in California's Gateway to Yosemite, with several tree lighting ceremonies planned.
The first Saturday in December is a big night in Oakhurst, as visitors and residents alike gather around Talking Bear Corner at Highway 41 and Road 426. This year on December 4, a massive tree more than 50 feet tall cut from the grounds at Paradise Springs Resort north of Oakhurst will grace the corner. Santa Clause will make an appearance, and there will be cookies, hot cider, hot dogs, gifts and more. For more information, dial (559) 642-0313.
The valley community of Chowchilla will be holding their Christmas Tree lighting on December 4 as well. Chowchilla's event actually has a long history, as this year's celebration will mark the 43rd annual lighting. The massive tree will be set aglow at 5:30 at Robertson Boulevard and Front Street. A very busy Santa Clause will also be making an appearance, adding to a busy and fun celebration for all. To learn more, call (559) 665-8640.
The Christmas Tree Lighting in Madera Ranchos takes place a day earlier, Friday, December 3. The fun starts at 6 pm at the Maywood Shopping Center. For more information, contact the Golden Valley Chamber of Commerce at (559) 645-4001.
|
Yosemite in the winter is a special time
Magic happens when snow falls in the park | Photo by Pat Althizer - Photo Safari Yosemite
|
It's no secret that Yosemite National Park is a popular summer destination. However, those who know the park well will tell you that there is something special about Yosemite in the winter.
The beauty of the snow blanketing the iconic granite cliffs contrasted by blue skies after a winter storm is unparalleled. The quiet and the solitude as you share the park with few others makes the experience a much deeper, more meaningful one.
Make sure you bring your camera and enjoy the show Mother Nature puts on each winter in Yosemite.
|
Celebrate California Restaurant Month in
California's Gateway to Yosemite
Madera County restaurants offer up deals
California is known for it's cutting edge cuisine. Join Madera County as we celebrate California Restaurant month with our partners at the California Tourism Travel Commission. To help us celebrate, some of our restaurant partners are offering great deals on your dining experience in January.
Ducey's on the Lake: One of Madera County's best known restaurants located on the shores of beautiful Bass Lake. Ducey's is the signature restaurant of the Pines Resort, and features and extensive menu that appeals to all tastes - welcoming lighter appetites and families as well as sophisticated palates and special occasion dining.
Promotion: Buy one entrée (breakfast lunch or dinner) and receive the second entrée of equal or lesser value for 50% off for the month of January when you mention California Restaurant Month.
The Vineyard is a fixture in the city of Madera, offering delicious dishes featuring locally grown ingredients. Many times foods will go from field to plate the same day, offering an exciting look at the freshest cuisine for which California is known.
Promotion: 15% discount all January long when you mention California Restaurant Month
Erna's Elderberry House is central California's only five star restaurant. Choose from an expertly crafted menu with meals cooked by renowned chef Gunnar Thompson paired with a wine from the award winning wine list. Your dinner will be enhanced by the European inspired décor and views of the Sierra Nevada.
Promotion: Three course menu for $45 (regularly $55) January 23-30
Located at the Yosemite Gateway Inn, a popular hotel in Oakhurst, the Yosemite Gateway Restaurant offers a diverse menu catering to vacationers who still want a good meal to recharge from a busy day of exploring Yosemite and the region. The spacious dining rooms look out on the foothills and forest, adding beautiful views to your delicious dinner.
Promotion: $10.95 dinner special, includes one trip through soup and salad bar through the month of January.
|
Discounts, deals and promotions
Fun things to see and do and ways to save in California's Gateway to Yosemite
There are lots of fun goings on throughout Madera County, and ways to stay and play for less! Read on from these events and offers from our partners.
The Pines Resort on Bass Lake is offering a chance to give great Christmas gifts this year. You can buy a certificate good for a one night stay for two at a Pines Chalet, including a $30 dinner voucher, for only $99. Or choose a one night stay for two in a suite with a $30 dinner voucher for only $159.
A Bed of Roses Bed and Breakfast in Oakhurst is looking to welcome guests looking to enjoy a peaceful winter retreat with mouthwatering breakfasts, hot coffee, tea, hot chocolate, 24 hour cookie jar, complimentary wine, free WiFi, DVD's massage chair and a warm cozy fire.
Stop by Appellation: California! Wine Tasting & Visitors Center anytime during December and get a FREE glass of California Champagne, just mention the YSVB! While you are here, taste 20 different LOCAL wines, browse our large selection of LOCAL olives, nuts, dried fruits, oils, honey, etc or pick-up a ready made Gift Basket of LOCAL products. Appellation: California is your One Stop LOCAL Gift Shop for the holidays!
Enjoy a stay at Sierra Mountain Lodge in Ahwahnee, a beautiful Bed and Breakfast for only $109 per night any night for the rest of 2010.
The Sierra Sky Ranch Resort above Oakhurst is offering a winter special. Stay Thursday and Friday night at only $99, and stay for Saturday night for free. It also makes a great Holiday retreat, as their restaurant, the Branding Iron Steakhouse and Saloon, will be open for Christmas Dinner.
Come enjoy Breakfast with Santa on Saturday, December 4, at the Oakhurst Community Center from 7:30 am to 11 am. Adults are only $5 and children $3. For more information call (559) 658-5656.
What do you get the photographer who has everything for Christmas? How about a Photo Safari tour of Yosemite? You can choose from a half-day Yosemite Valley excursion for $165 or full-day, including sunset, for $285.
Spend two nights in Yosemite at The Redwoods for only $338. Each stay includes a free snowshoe rental, a welcome gift, discounts for Badger Pass Ski Resort, ice skating and dining.
Enjoy lower rates at Ravensbrook Bed and Breakfast in Coarsegold. This beautiful property is located next to it's own private pond, and boasts gorgeous surroundings. Stay for New Years and ring in the new year at Chukchansi Gold Resort and Casino as Ravensbrook provides a complimentary shuttle.
If you'd like to get a beautifully decorated Christmas Tree while at the same time helping out a good cause, then the annual Christmas Tree Auction in Oakhurst is the perfect event. Celebrate the Holidays with a live auction of beautifully decorated full sized trees, table top trees, and wreaths, complimentary champagne spectacular hors d'oeuvres, silent auction, raffle and door prize, with proceeds benefiting the Boys and Girls Club of Oakhurst.
|
Starbucks of Oakhurst recognized
Popular coffee stop earns Customer Service award
The Oakhurst location of the popular coffee chain Starbucks
 | | Staff from the Starbucks of Oakhurst accept the Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau's Excellence in Customer Service Aw |
was the winner of this month's Excellent in Customer Service award presented by the Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau.
The monthly award is given based on entries received to the bureau by Madera County residents and visitors alike. Starbucks had received multiple nominations, which YSVB officials say is a testament to their dedication to customer service. "Multiple people had the same thing to say about them," said YSVB CEO Dan Cunning. "No matter who they work with, they were always greeted by a friendly staffer who went out of their way to make the customer feel welcome."
YSVB Board President Rhonda Salisbury agreed, saying the company's customer service is well known by their customers. "They always greet everyone in a personal fashion. It's not just the standard 'Hi can I help you?' but a genuine care for the customer that makes them feel very welcome."
A Chowchilla resident who nominated Starbucks said her experiences have always been positive. "Whenever my husband and I travel through Oakhurst, we always stop at the Starbucks there, every time we have been there the employees have been very sweet, friendly and helpful, even giving us a sample for us to try to see if we like it."
A regular customer stated that they've always had a positive experience at Starbucks. "Every time I'm in there they all have a smile and are so friendly. I feel like I'm going to a friends, not a business." A Starbucks spokesperson said company was thrilled with the award. "We are extremely honored to be recognized by Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau with a customer service award. "We love serving the community and are thrilled to be part of people's daily routines. We will continue providing our customers world-class service and offering high-quality beverages, food items, and merchandise. Thank you so much!"
Starbucks is the third winner of the award, which the YSVB grants to "recognize businesses that show excellent customer service and strive to make their clients happy, which helps all businesses in Madera County.
The first winners were Shawnda Brooks with Coffee Cats in Chowchilla and Kelsey Crumpton with McDonald's in Oakhurst. |
|
