Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau Newsletter	November, 2013

Just because the temperatures are dropping doesn't mean the fun is falling off. There are still many great activities and attractions happening in and around Yosemite in the coming month and beyond.

Read on for some fun travel ideas to help spark some fall travel ideas.

Hope to see you soon!

Sincerely,

Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau

Third annual Madera Pomegranate Festival

The Twin Pomegranates Grenade Launch is a popular activity at the annual Madera Pomegranate Festival. Photo by Mike Schwabenland

The city of Madera once again shows off why it's known as The Heart of Pomegranate Country, as the Madera Chamber of Commerce puts on the third annual Madera Pomegranate Festival on
Saturday, Nov. 2.
The festival will be bigger than ever this year with live music from The Marie Wilson Band, more cooking demos, more vendors selling pomegranate products, food booths with pomegranate-infused recipes and even more kids' activities, including the Fresno Chaffee Zoomobile.

Admission and parking is free, and the event takes place at the Madera Municipal Airport. For more information, or to see this year's Pomegranate Parody Video, poking fun at the song Thrift Shop, visit www.PomegranateFestival.com.

Madera Wine Trail gearing up for Holiday season

The Madera Wine Trail's family wineries are proud to present "Holiday Spirit Weekend" on November 9th and 10th, 2013 from 10 am to 5 pm. Sample a wide variety of local wines, as you visit each participating winery on the Madera Wine Trail. Wine Trail Weekend events give visitors the opportunity to experience the region's rich wine heritage and taste a wide variety of wines at each winery.

On this special weekend, guests can enjoy live music and local art. Holiday gift shopping and delicious food will be available! Participating wineries offer a large selection of excellent wines to choose from, and many will have special pricing on Holiday Spirit Weekend. Take home some wine to share with family and friends for the holidays. Tickets are $25 in advance through November 8, and $30 the weekend of the event. Tickets and more details can be found at www.MaderaWineTrail.com

Pomegranate Golf, Softball Tournament in Madera

In addition to the third annual Madera Pomegranate Festival, the city also hosts a golf and softball tournament.

The Pomegranate Classic Golf Tournament takes place at the Madera Municipal Golf Course on Friday, November 1. The cost is $65 per person or $240 per team. Go to http://www.maderamuni.com/ to learn more.

The Pomegranate Softball Tournament takes place the following weekend on November 9 and 10. Teams cost $200 to enter. You can learn more or register by calling 559-661-5495.

Fall aboard for cool runnings aboard the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad

The Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad is adding some November train runs to the mix.

The historic narrow gauge engine will run Saturday and Sunday November 2 and 3, 9 and 10, and then Friday, Saturday and Sunday after Thanksgiving, Nov 29, 30 and Dec 1.

Runs will be canceled in the event of inclement weather. Call them for further information at 559/683-7273.

Golden Chain Theatre celebrates the Women of Tin Pan Alley

Many people know the popular works in the late 1800's through the early 1900's, but what people often don't know is the contribution women made to the entertainment of the time. The Golden Chain Theatre plans to change all that with a musical work running November 8 through the 24.

The Women of Tin Pan Alley is a nostalgic musical revue celebrating the women who anonymously created many popular standards of radio, film and stage in the Tin Pan Alley era (1885 to 1940). Live performances of many classic numbers such as "I Can't Give You Anything But Love," "The Way You Look Tonight" and "I Feel a Song Coming on." will all be a part of this rousing production.

Visit www.GoldenChainTheatre.org for more information.

Gateway Communities celebrate Yosemite Anniversary

On June 30, 1864, amid the Civil War, Abraham Lincoln signed the Yosemite Grant Act establishing Yosemite Valley and Mariposa Grove as the first protected wild land for all time. This grant also marked the first California State Park.

With the help of many partners and friends,communities are hosting a nationwide commemorative effort to honor the 150th anniversary of the significant event that spurred the national park idea. Check out the anniversary calendar and plan to join us for one or more activities over the next 14 months. Upcoming events in November include:

11/01/2013 - 11/03/2013 - ITSA Film Festival features Yosemite
11/01/2013 - 11/30/2013 - Sequoiascape
11/02/2013 - 1850's Yosemite & Wine Event
11/07/2013 - Yosemite 150th Gala
11/15/2013 - 11/16/2013 - Yosemite Gateway Expressions Exhibit

See Yosemite for free

The National Park Service chooses several days throughout the year where the public can visit their parks for free. The next opportunity is coming up Saturday and Sunday, November 9 and 10 in honor of Veteran's Day.

Entrance to all parks is free, including Yosemite National Park. It's a great chance to get out and explore your public lands and see the beauty of Yosemite in the fall.

Be sure to stop by the Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau so we can help you plan your time.

Sierra Art Trails readies new exhibit

Hot on the heels of their annual open- studio tour with near- record participation of artists and record-breaking attendance, the Sierra Art Trails aren't resting on their laurels. They are prepping for a new exhibit called Gathering.

"We gather what we treasure. We gather to store or to hoard. As children, it might start with a collection of pretty stones or beach glass. Gathered treasures are shared with generosity, or hidden away in greed."

The exhibit opens November 9 at Stellar Gallery, with a reception on Nov. 16 from 4 to 8 pm. The exhibit will remain on display until December 8.

To learn more, visit here.

Erna's Elderberry House hosts cooking school

Aspiring chefs and home cooks looking to impress can learn from the best in the region at the Fall Cooking Class at Erna's Elderberry House.

The class features all of Erna's favorite holiday dishes, and finishes with a wine seminar (3 reds and 3 whites).

The 3-Day class is $1,250 per person, all- inclusive (class, lunch and dinner each day, full recipe book, and a gift at the end, tax and gratuity) Two sessions are available, November 6 - 8 followed by November 13 through 15. Guests can join just the wine seminar on the second day for $75 per person. Call 559-683-6860 to register.

Don't feel like reading? Watch the newsletter

Do you want to find out about all the fun

events happening here in California's Gateway to Yosemite but just don't feel like reading? You don't have to. Now you can watch the updates on our YouTube Channel!

Just head on over to YouTube, search Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau and you'll be whisked away to our channel filled with great videos showing the latest happenings as well as other fun and beautiful imagery.

November 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.

The Blue Heron hosts Country and BBQ Night
The Blue Heron in Yosemite Lakes Park is hosting a fun night of food and dancing Saturday, November 2. Enjoy delicious BBQ dinner from 5-7 pm followed by line dancing lessons starting at 6:30. Come wearing a cowboy hat and receive $1 off your dinner. There is no cover charge. Call 559-658-6969 to RSVP.

Christmas Tree Auction

On Sunday, December 8, The Oakhurst Boys and Girls Club and many other charities will once again benefit from the annual Christmas Tree Auction.

Doors open for the silent auction, raffle, hors d'oeuvre and complimentary champagne at 3 p.m. Bidding for the Live Auction begins at 5:30 p.m. In addition to the Boys & Girls Club of Oakhurst, the following charities will benefit from this event: Oakhurst Sierra Rotary Club Santa Program, Children's Museum of the Sierra, Heartland Opportunity Center, Helping Hands, Mountain Bear Fan Club, Oakhurst Lutheran Community Ministries, Coarsegold School, Rivergold School, Wild Wonderful Women Scholarship Fund, Soroptimist International of the Sierras, Yosemite High School Scholarship Fund, Oakhurst Mountain Lions Club, 49-Ears Scholarship Fund,
Womens' Council of REALTORS, Fresno Flats and More.

Ducey's Daily Deals

Ducey's On The Lake and Ducey's Bar and Grill at The Pines Resort have daily specials every day of the week. Margarita Mondays have $1 Well Margaritas, Taco Tuesdays feature $2 beef or chicken tacos, Wine Wednesdays offer 50% off a bottle of wine, Thirsty Thursdays see all draft beer half off, Date Night Fridays are perfect for couples, as they offer a dinner special for two for only $39.95, Saturdays are Dinner with the Executive Chef, where guests can win a special 5-course meal with Chef Jonathan Frabotta, and Sundays are for the family as they offer a spaghetti and meatball dinner will all the fixings served family style for only $17 for adults and $7 for kids.

Thanksgiving at ECCO

Thanksgiving at ECCO is an annual tradition. Imagine how wonderful Thanksgiving can be when you can relax with old and new friends, eat delicious food, enjoy the beauty of our surroundings, and no dishes to wash! Thanksgiving festivities begin with an optional Holy Eucharist from 11:00 to 12:00, followed by appetizers, and then dinner at 1:00. p.m. Spend a quiet afternoon visiting, playing games and relaxing. For those choosing to spend the night, join us for a newer tradition of bell ringing, a fun and entertaining event. Consider the stayover options of Wednesday night and/or Thursday night.

$10 off at Hampton Inn Madera

Hampton Inn & Suites 3254 Airport Drive, Madera CA Must call Hotel direct to get the special for November 1 to Nov.30th. Take $10.00 off any type of room, plus a $10 gift card for Sal's Mexican Restaurant.

Holiday Open House at Hilmar

Take a day trip out to Hilmar Cheese for their annual Open House. Meet California Farmstead cheesemakers and gourmet food purveyors from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Enjoy delicious complimentary gourmet food and sweet samples, cheese-tasting, wine-tasting and a variety of activities.

Holiday Spirit Weekend on the Madera Wine Trail

Holiday Spirit Weekend on the Madera Wine Trail is November 9 and 10 from 10 am to 5 pm. Sample a wide variety of local wines as you visit each participating winery on the Madera Wine Trail. On this special weekend, guests can also enjoy live music, local art, holiday gift shopping and delicious food will be available! Take home some wine to share with family and friends for the holidays. Tickets available now for $25 at www.MaderaWineTrail.com or $30 at the event.

Oakhurst Feed hosts Open House

Oakhurst Feed & Pet Supply hosts an Open House on Saturday, November 9th. Raffle for a $50 gift certificate (must have coupon from Sierra Star, one per family). FREE Refreshments. 10-40% Holiday Gift Items

Fall Family Getaway at The Pines Resort

Enjoy accommodations at The Pines Resort for one or two nights in a Queen Chalet, special dinner for the family and a $20 credit for breakfast for only $150 for one night and $230 for two nights. Tax and gratuity not included.

Fall Photo Safari Trips
The colors are changing in Yosemite, making it the perfect time for a Photo Safari Trip. Professional photographer Pat Althizer knows the best times and the best places to help you get those postcard-quality photographs during your time in Yosemite. Take advantage of the season and book your Photo Safari today.

Stay one night, get next half off at LynMar Pond
For your winter vacation or your skiing trip in the Sierra Nevada mountains go to www.lynmarpondranch.com for a great deal RENT ONE NIGHT AND GET SECOND NIGHT AT HALF PRICE. Looking forward to meeting you

Four nights for the price of two at The Redwoods

Stay now through October 31, 2013, and receive four nights for the price of two at The Redwoods in Yosemite. Enjoy the crisp fall air, beautiful fall colors and quiet. The crowds are gone! It's time to relax and enjoy an extended stay INSIDE Yosemite National Park! Call 855-885-3841 to book your fall vacation today (call soon for the best selection of fully-equipped vacation homes).

*Not valid on existing reservations or with any discount. Offer expires 10-31-13.

Tenaya welcomes visitors back to Yosemite

Tenaya Lodge welcomes visitors back to Yosemite National Park with a special offer

: Book a stay through Dec. 19 and receive breakfast for two plus a free seven-day Yosemite National Park Pass. Visit TenayaLodge.com/YosemiteOpen or call 888-514-2167 and mention promotional code YOSEOPEN.

Westbrook Wine Farm Hosts Special Dinner

Select wines from Westbrook Wine Farm in O'Neals will be featured at a special, multi-course dinner at The Blue Heron Restaurant in Yosemite Lakes Park. The dinner takes place on Saturday, December 7 and will feature classic Christmas dishes perfectly paired with Westbrook wines for $60 per person. Call 559-658-6969 to make reservations.

Three for the price of two at Yosemite's Enchanted Forest

Stay at Yosemite's Enchanted Forest for two nights and receive the third night absolutely when you stay November through April. Excludes Holidays.

Fantastic Fall Rates at Yosemite West Cottages

Make a new reservation for non-holiday dates at Yosemite West Cottages between now and Jan. 15, 2014, stay two nights or longer at low, low rates - and receive a $50 credit voucher good on your next stay, with no date restrictions for credit voucher use. Just ask for Double Savings when calling Yosemite West Reservations at 559/642-2211 weekdays between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. or note "Double Savings" when booking online 24/7 at YosemiteWestReservations.com. Credit voucher may be used at Yosemite West Cottages, Yosemite West Lodging, Yosemite West Condominium Rentals, and Yosemite West Vacation Homes, when reserved through Yosemite West Reservations.

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.