Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau Newsletter
April, 2013
Easter Egg Half Dome
Happy Easter and happy spring from the Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau!

Flowers are blooming, trees are budding, and events are popping! Read on to see all that's coming up in Madera County: California's Gateway to Yosemite. 
 
Sincerely,
Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau
In this issue
:: Bass Lake businesses open for season
:: Restaurant unveils remodel. hosts wine dinner
:: Madera Wine Trail prepts for Meet the Winemaker Weekend
:: Tickets on sale for Music in the Meadow
:: Annual Chowchilla Stampede
:: Tenaya Lodge hosts concert
:: Annual Ragtime Festival at Fresno Flats
:: Zip Yosemite
Bass Lake Favorites open for season
 
Photo by Nancy Robbins 
Photo courtesy Nancy Robbins
Perennial favorites on Bass Lake, The Forks Resort and Miller's Landing  open for the season starting March 29.

Both offer cabins perfect for family vacations, with restaurants, boat rentals and more close by. They are among the many other amenities at Bass Lake, which boasts virtually every type of lodging, from camping to cabins to vacation rentals to a full-service resort. There's also shopping, dining, and a whole host of events, including the annual Bass Lake Fishing Derby taking place May 4 and 5.

To learn more, go to www.BassLakeChamber.com  

    

Restaurant unveils remodel, hosts Wine Dinner      

The Blue Heron Yosemite Lakes Park 
The Blue Heron in Yosemite Lakes Park recently underwent an extensive remodel.
 
The Blue Heron Restaurant in Yosemite Lakes Park recently unveiled an extensive remodel that includes a completely redesigned dining room.

That new dining room will be on display at a special dinner featuring wines from the Yosemite Sierra Wine Road wineries. Chef Christian Mueller will prepare a three- course dinner with each course specially created to pair perfectly with wines from Fasi Estate Winery, Idle Hour Winery and Westbrook Wine Farm.

Seating is limited, so guests are encouraged to make reservations early by calling 559-658-6969.  The cost is $60 per person.  
Madera Wine trail preps for Meet the Winemaker Weekend
Madera Wine Trail

The Madera Vintners Association's family wineries are proud to present the Madera Wine Trail's "Meet the Winemaker Weekend" on May 11 and 12 from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.

 

Sample a wide variety of local wines as you visit each participating winery on the Madera Wine Trail. The winemakers of the Madera Wine Trail will  pour and discuss their handcrafted wines, offering tours and more. On this special weekend, guests will also enjoy live music. Local art and delicious food will be available.  

 

Tickets are $25 in advance online or at participating locations. Tickets are $30 the weekend of the event at the winery. With your ticket, you will receive a passport wine glass good for wine-tasting all weekend at all wineries. Please note: to have a broken or lost wine glass replaced, there is a charge of $3.

For tickets and more information visit www.MaderaWineTrail.com

 
Tickets on sale for annual Music in the Meadow
Coarsegold Historic Museum - Photo by Nancy Robbins
Coarsegold Historic Museum - Photo by Nancy Robbins

The 2013 Music and Art in the Meadow will be held Saturday, June 1, at the Coarsegold Historical Museum. 

This year's event will feature "all music, all the time" with two bands playing throughout the afternoon.  Featured performers are the returning "String Bandits" who play lively bluegrass music, and the "Morgan Canyon Band" who perform "mellow rock" from the 50's, 60's, and '70's.  Also featured will be local artists displaying their works. 

This fundraising event will run from 1:00 to 5:00. Admission is only $10.  Food and beverage (including beer and wine) will be available for your enjoyment (not included in ticket price).  In addition, there will be a silent auction and a 50/50 drawing.  Docents will be available for museum tours.  Bring a chair or blanket, and enjoy a lovely afternoon bathed in fun music and surrounded by history.

Go to http://coarsegoldhistoricalsociety.com for more information. 
  
 
New Teddy Bear Museum
Teddy Roosevelt Teddy Bear
A bear resembling its namesake, Teddy Roosevelt, at the Teddy Bear Museum of the Sierra

A new museum celebrating the history of the Teddy Bear has opened in Oakhurst.

Located next to the King Vintage Museum, the Teddy Bear Museum of the Sierra has hundreds of the stuffed bears on display ranging from patriotic bears, historic bears and of course bears resembling the man from whom their names originate-- Teddy Roosevelt--and more.

The museum is open Wednesdays through Saturdays from 10 am to 4 pm. For more information, call 559-658-6999 or visit them online
Annual Chowchilla Stampede
Chowchilla Stampede 
 

 

The Annual Chowchilla Stampede is coming up starting April 5.

 

 

The three-day rodeo, featuring some of the best ropers and barrel racers around, starts off with the annual Cattle Drive down Robertson Boulevard through downtown Chowchilla.

The cattle drive is a truly amazing sight to behold, as hundreds of steers are guided down Chowchilla's main street. It's the prefect kick-off to some intense rodeo action, which takes place at the Chowchilla Madera County Fairgrounds.

To learn more, go to www.Facebook.com and search Chowchilla Stampede.  
Tenaya Lodge hosts concert
Joe and Allison Sharino
Joe and Allison Sharino will perform at The Tenaya Lodge April 6.

 

The Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite hosts "An Evening with Joe and Alison Sharino" from 7:30 to 10 p.m. Sat., April 6 in the lodge's Grand Ballroom. The local father-daughter duo will entertain guests with a special "unplugged" acoustic show featuring the best of classic rock, pop, folk, soul, and country music with an emphasis on audience participation and sing-a-longs. Guests may enjoy the show only or the show and buffet dinner.

 

Originally from Oakhurst and Coarsegold, they are now based in the San Francisco Bay Area and don't often perform together.   

 

"An Evening with Joe and Alison Sharino" begins at 7:30 pm and tickets to the show only are $20. Tickets to the show plus a buffet dinner starting at 6:30 p.m. are $50 (plus tax and gratuity). Guests may reserve seats by calling Tenaya Lodge's Concierge toll-free at (877) 247-9241. For more information and full buffet dinner menu, click here.  

Annual Ragtime Festival at Fresno Flats
Fresno Flats Historic Park

Fresno Flats Friday welcomes the Annual Ragtime Festival on April 12-14, featuring pianists Tom Brier, Jack and Chris Bradshaw and Larisa Migachyov. Other favorite artists are Robyn Drivon on tuba, and Steve Drivon on percussion and vocals who will begin this exciting concert following the dinner, an old fashioned stew feed, provided by the kitchen crew of Fresno Flats Historic Village and Park. The doors of the Old Cunningham School at Fresno Flats open at 5:30. Admission to the concert and dinner is $10.00. The Park is located on Road 427 (School Road).

 

On Saturday afternoon at 2:00 p.m. a concert is scheduled in the Cunningham School House at Fresno Flats , followed by a Youth Concert with Jackie Byers' piano students . The public is invited to stay on for a no-host pizza party and Open Piano Concert.All  are welcome.

 

Sunday, April 14 at 1:00 p.m. a Finale Concert will be presented at the Oakhurst Lutheran Church A donation will be welcomed.

Call Bea at (559) 641-2272 or email  for more information. 

  
Zip into spring
Zip Yosemite


Zip Yosemite is up and running for the spring season.

 

Located off Highway 41 up Sierra Sky Ranch Road in Oakhurst, Zip Yosemite offers a state-of-the-art zipline tour which includes six lines, multiple sky bridges and two platform rappels.

 

The course, situated high in the trees of Sierra National Forest, satisfies weekend thrill seekers and provides an amazing opportunity to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, weddings or just life.  

 

Signature tours are available daily and nicely complement a trip to Yosemite National Park.  For solitude, many guests enjoy pairing their zipline experience with camping under the giant sequoias at nearby Nelder Grove. 

 

Tours average 3 hours, are fully guided, and require no hand braking; creating a perfect experience for all ability levels.  Reservations for Zip Yosemite can be made online at www.ZipYosemite.com, or by calling 559-642-6688.
 

Fun events and travel incentives 

Businesses offer discounts and other travel incentives

Apple Blossom Inn offers picnic package
Apple Blossom Inn, Yosemite Area Bed and Breakfast

Enjoy the beauty and natural splendors of Yosemite National Park for a two-night stay at the award-winning Apple Blossom Inn. Ask for the picnic package to enjoy Yosemite National Park, luxurious accommodations and a delicious picnic lunch for a great price.  

   

Bass Lake Vacation Rental special rates Century 21 Ditton Realty Bass Lake vacation rentals  

Treat your family to a gorgeous spring weekend at Beautiful Bass Lake!! Spend the day hiking the trails around Bass Lake or take a 17-mile trip to watch the spring season engulf Yosemite National Park. Our homes range from cute & cozy to large & luxurious

Take advantage of our off-season rates starting as low as $100 per night!

Call us to book your home now... 1-866-914-3888 or visit them online

   

Chimani releasing new free National Park Apps Chimani Yosemite App

In celebration of National Park Week, April 22 to 26, Chimani will be releasing a new (and free) national park app each of the five days. Go to www.chimani.com for more information.  

 

Easter Sunrise at ECCO ECCO

Event: Easter Sunrise Service at ECCO

Starts: Sunday, March 31, 6:30 am

Price: Free and no reservations required.

Location: Evergreen Conference Center Oakhurst (ECCO), outdoor chapel

              43803 Hwy 41, Oakhurst, CA 93644

Details: Breakfast to follow the service. $11, reservations required

Phone: Kristen, 559.683.8162

Email: programs@ECCOyosemite.org

 www.ECCOyosemite.org

  

Fasi Estate Winery celebrates release of 2009 Syrah  Fasi Estate Winery

FĂsi Crest Syrah 2009 will be unveiled at a celebration on April 19 from 5 to 8 pm. This wine has won a gold medal at the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition in 2012. Only 130 cases have been produced, meaning supplies are definitely limited.  Please RSVP to Tasting Room Manager Jane Acherman.   

   

Get a dollar off a Forks Burger The Forks Resort  

Now that The Forks is open for the season, you can get your hands on one of their famous Forks Burgers. Download this coupon for savings, and you can take $1 off  every burger on the check. Also good for breakfast.  

 
Have your Holiday gathering at Hampton Hampton Inn Madera  

Spring into spring at Hampton Inn & Suites, 3254 Airport Drive, Madera, CA.  Get 10 per cent off all rooms, from a Standard room to a Luxury in-room Jacuzzi Suite, plus free wine tasting for two at one of our local wineries. You must call the hotel directly to get our Spring into Spring deals. 559-661-0910.

Get free complete breakfast, free parking, free WI-FI, free use of pool, business and fitness center!   

  

Big Savings at A Haven of Rest Bed and Breakfast A Haven of Rest Bed and Breakfast  

SAVE, SAVE, SAVE!! 20% discount for a two-night stay at A Haven of Rest Bed & Breakfast for the entire month of April. Full breakfast included. This is a savings of $79.80!  

        

Holiday Inn Express: Royal Romance Package

What could be more romantic than arriving at a Jacuzzi Suite to find waiting for you  a bottle of champagne and delicious chocolates on the bed? After a night of romance you will enjoy a hearty hot breakfast-in-bed. It's a perfect way to rekindle the flames. For couples who prefer, sparkling cider will be provided in lieu of champagne. We would love to help set the mood and are willing to work with you to fulfill any special requests. Please contact us at 559-665-3300 if you would like to add any other special touches to your romantic getaway. This package must be reserved 3 days in advance. Once booked there will be no refunds or changes to the package, which includes the room and its amenities.     

 

Holiday Inn Express: Madera offers 15% discount  Holiday Inn Express Madera 

We are the Gateway to Yosemite. Stay with us and receive a 15% discount off any room you choose. Enjoy the complimentary full hot breakfast buffet, wireless high speed internet and parking. Just mention this Ad to receive a discount, but you must call hotel direct (559) 661-7400.

  

New show at the Golden Chain Theatre Golden Chain Theatre  

The classic tale of a man and his imaginary (or is it?) rabbit will be told at the Golden Chain Theatre April 6, 7, 13, 14, 20 and 21. Harvey, by Mary Chase and directed by Dr. Richard Hoffman is about Elwood P. Dowd who claims to have an unseen six-foot-tall rabbit as a friend named Harvey. Tickets are $12 for adults, $10 for seniors, $8 for students. Children are $6. Call 559 683-7112 to make your reservation.  

  

Art showing at Idle Hour Winery Idle Hour Winery

Head out to Idle Hour Winery in Oakhurst on Saturday, April 13 for the Throw Back...Fall Forward Art Opening featuring works from artist Stephanie Pearl  from 11 am to 5 pm. Heighten your senses with art, Idle Hour Wine and music with Dave Henderson.  

   

Narrow Gauge Inn announces "Getaway with your pet"  Narrow Gauge Inn

The famous  Narrow Gauge Inn dining room will open for the season on April 24. The restaurant will also be opening a half- hour earlier than prior years, starting with early-bird specials from 5 pm to 6:30 pm. As an added bonus, the restaurant will now be open seven days a week.    

 

Earth Day at Oakhurst Feed and Pet Supply Oakhurst Feed and Pet Supply

Join the Earth Day celebration at Oakhurst Feed and Pet Supply on Monday, April 22 from 10 am to 2 pm. Numerous celebrities will be in attendance including Smokey Bear and Kopi Sotiropulos from Great Day.  There will also be representatives from the Audubon Society, CALFire, the Children's Museum of the Sierra, the National Park Service and Nature's Nutrients.  

 

Paradise Springs hosts free bridal show Paradise Springs  

Calling all future brides! Paradise Springs hosts a free bridal show on Sunday, April 28 from noon to 4 pm. Paradise Springs is located at

52770 Road 632 in Oakhurst. Enter to win a "Wedding Day" package giveaway - Must be present to win; some restrictions apply. 

   

Yosemite getaway at The Pines Resort at Bass Lake  

The Pines Resort on Bass Lake is a perfect destination for your Yosemite Getaway. For a limited time book a two-night stay in a chalet for only $179. In addition, if you present your Yosemite entry ticket, you will receive extra $20 off. That's two nights for $159! Call (800) 350-7463 to make your reservation. Valid any day of the week, by March 28, 2013. More details on www.basslake.com   

 

Photo Safari Yosemite offers 20% discount Photo Safari Yosemite  

Photo Safari Yosemite will discount the cost of a Full Day Yosemite excursion 20% for any bookings that sign up for April outings and that are staying in any of the local Oakhurst/Bass Lake Hotels, B&B's or Lodges. To qualify, the client must provide evidence of accommodations and pay full amount of the Photo Safari in advance for the reservation date.

   

 Save $20 at Sierra Mountain Lodge Sierra Mountain Lodge
Stay at the scenic  Sierra Mountain Lodge in Ahwahnee any time throughout the month of April and save $20 off the regular rate. Stay in May, and enjoy $10 in savings.

Wine time at Quady  Quady Winery logo

Visit Quady Winery Saturday, March 30th from 12-4:30pm and bring your friends and relatives. Pick up some great wines for your holiday dinner, and have a slushy on us. One free slushy on Saturday March 30th as our Easter gift to you. Happy Easter! Whether you have a picnic, bbq or a formal dinner on Easter you will be able to find the perfect wine at Quady. Pair Essensia with a delicious Carrot Cake, Elysium with some delectable chocolate and Electra with Ham! Quady Winery will be closed on Easter Sunday (March 31st).

 

April flowers, Yosemite waterfalls, and a FREE Night Too! The Redwoods in Yosemite

Stay at the Redwoods in Yosemite anytime during the month of April, 2013 and receive the 3rd night FREE.

*Offer is not valid during holiday periods, with any other discount, or on existing reservations. Offer expires 4-30-2013. Reserve your stay today by calling 855-300-5695.

Call soon for the best selection of fully-equipped vacation homes INSIDE of Yosemite!

         
Tenaya celebrates the return of famed GMTenaya Lodge  

The Tenaya Lodge is celebrating the return of the much loved GM Paul Ratchford, and you get to benefit. Celebrate Paul's homecoming
with the Spring GM Special. Available for a limited time through June 1, the special starts from only $189* per night
and includes breakfast for two and a complimentary
Yosemite National Park Pass. Use promotional code GMOFFER when booking.  

  

Free art show at Yosemite Lakes Park  Yosemite Lakes Park

The Yosemite Lakes Owners' Association is holding an art show featuring numerous works from local artists on April 6 and 7 from 11 am to 4 pm at the Yosemite Lakes Clubhouse. This art show is free to the public. For more information, call Cindy at 559-658-7466 x104.

 

Planning on visiting? You can book your stay right on our website! Visit http://www.yosemitethisyear.com/where-to-stay, browse our properties and book your stay right there on the site!

You can also book your room on our Facebook page now as well.

 

Sincerely,

Jarrod Lyman
Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau