Experience the flavors of olives at the Olive Festival in Cherry Valley and the Olive & Lavender Festival in Paso Robles. Explore a variety of olive dishes, learn about olive curing, and even join in on the olive-picking fun in the autumn.

Celebrate California's Abundance of Olives at Spring Festivals

( Credit to: Nbclosangeles )

Springtime in California is a time for celebrating the abundance of fresh produce that the Golden State has to offer. From strawberries to avocados, there is no shortage of delicious fruits and vegetables to enjoy. But let's not forget about the humble olive, a small fruit with a big flavor.

In the town of Cherry Valley, the Olive Festival at 123 Farm is the place to be on March 23 and 24. This annual event is a celebration of all things olive, from olive dishes to olive oil. Admission is free, but be sure to bring some money for parking and food. You won't want to miss out on the Spanish Chorizo Carbonera made with organic olives or the Lemon Olive Oil Cake. And if you're interested in learning more about the art of curing artisanal olives, there will be a free lecture on both days.

But Cherry Valley isn't the only place in California where olives are celebrated. In Paso Robles, known for its vineyards, the Olive & Lavender Festival on May 11 is a must-visit event. This festival combines the flavors of olives and lavender, creating a unique and delightful experience. There will be vendors, demonstrations, and even a cooking contest for those who want to showcase their culinary skills.

While spring may not be the time for picking olives, it's never too early to start planning for the autumn harvest. If you're interested in getting hands-on with olive picking, keep an eye on 123 Farm's social media accounts for updates as November approaches. And don't forget to check out other olive orchards in your area that offer olive-picking opportunities.

So this spring, don't just focus on the strawberries and avocados. Take some time to appreciate the humble olive and all the delicious dishes and flavors it has to offer. Whether you visit the Olive Festival in Cherry Valley or the Olive & Lavender Festival in Paso Robles, you're sure to have a piquant and delightful experience. And if you're up for a little adventure, consider joining in on the olive-picking fun come autumn.