As we embrace 2025, outdoor spaces have truly become extensions of our indoor living areas. Here are the top trends transforming backyards this summer:​

Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Designs: Homeowners are prioritizing sustainability by incorporating recycled materials and drought-resistant plants into their outdoor spaces. This not only benefits the environment but also reduces maintenance costs. ​

Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Integration: The line between indoor and outdoor living is blurring. Features like oversized sliding doors and consistent flooring materials create a harmonious flow between spaces. ​

Advanced Outdoor Kitchens: Beyond the traditional grill, outdoor kitchens now boast pizza ovens, refrigerators, and even dishwashers, making alfresco dining more convenient and enjoyable. ​

Smart Outdoor Technology: From app-controlled lighting to automated irrigation systems, technology is enhancing the functionality and ambiance of outdoor areas. ​

Neutral and Earthy Tones: Color palettes featuring warm taupes, terracotta, and olive greens are dominating outdoor designs, creating serene and inviting atmospheres.

 

Considering an outdoor upgrade? Let’s find you a home with the perfect space to enjoy these trends!

Spring Sports Schedule:
A’s Schedule
River Cats Schedule
Sac Republic Schedule

May Events & Activities:
Every Friday: Concerts in the Park
Every Wednesday: Wine Down Wednesday in Roseville
May 3: Balance Bike Bash in Old Folsom
May 10: Light Up the Dark Music Festival in Folsom
May 11: Mother’s Day Concert & Dance Celebration in El Dorado Hills
May 11: Mother’s Day Brunch at Hyatt
May 11: Mother’s Day Sights & Sips Cruise
May 11: Mother’s Day Picnic at Scribner Bend Vineyards
May 15: Wine on the Wild Side at Sacramento Zoo
May 17: Garden Gala for the Arts in Fair Oaks
May 16: Taste of Fair Oaks at Northridge Country Club
May 31: Community Garage Sale at Fair Oaks Park

Other May Happenings:

The Porch (Midtown)
With fried green tomatoes, shrimp and grits, and a killer skillet cornbread dish, The Porch in Midtown brings the comfort of Southern cooking to Sacramento—perfect for a relaxed and flavorful brunch.

Milestone (El Dorado Hills)
Tucked into the El Dorado Hills Town Center, Milestone offers a seasonal brunch menu in a cozy, upscale setting. Think bacon donut holes, lobster benedict, French dip, and craft cocktails.

Cafe Bernardo (R Street or East Sac)
Cafe Bernardo is a local favorite known for its modern vibe and reliable classics. Enjoy dishes like huevos rancheros, brioche French toast, and locally roasted coffee in a light-filled atmosphere.

Delta King’s Pilothouse Restaurant (Old Sacramento)
For something a little different, try brunch on the water aboard the historic Delta King. With views of the Sacramento River and a menu that includes carved roasted prime rib and decadent desserts, it’s a unique treat.

Frog & Slim Midtown
For a refined yet inviting experience, Frog & Slim is offering a special three-course prix fixe Mother’s Day brunch. Start with fresh pastries and breakfast deviled eggs, then choose from main courses like brioche French toast or a marinated steak sandwich.

Mother (Midtown)
Vegetarian-friendly and full of flavor, Mother is celebrating with a brunch featuring beignets, chilaquiles, eggs Benedict, and more. You’ll also find creative dishes like a beet-avocado tostada, mushroom po’ boy, and fettuccine carbonara with trumpet mushroom “bacon.” Brunch runs from 10 am to 3 pm , and reservations are available via their website.

Make reservations early—Mother’s Day brunch spots fill up fast.

Relaxation & Self-Care

• Asha Urban Baths: Treat her to a rejuvenating experience with soaking, sauna, and massage options at this serene urban oasis.

Floral Delights

• Bloem Décor: Known for unique floral arrangements, they offer daily delivery throughout the greater Sacramento area.

• Relles Florist: A family-owned florist providing same-day delivery of beautiful bouquets and arrangements.

Jewelry & Accessories

• Cuffs Boutique: Explore a collection of vintage and new women’s clothing, accessories, and jewelry at this Midtown boutique.

Culinary Experiences

• Sacramento Natural Foods Co-op: Offer her a hands-on cooking class experience, ranging from sourdough baking to international cuisines.

• The Kitchen Table: This local kitchen boutique offers workshops and classes perfect for the culinary enthusiast.

Books & Candles

• Capital Books: An indie bookstore in downtown Sacramento with a wide selection of books and unique gifts.

• Hazel Candle Co.: Nature-inspired candles crafted with 100% plant-based coconut-soy wax and essential oil-based fragrances.

Art & Culture

• Crocker Art Museum: Gift her a membership or tickets to explore diverse art collections and exhibitions.

• Broadway Sacramento: Surprise her with tickets to a musical or play.

Apple Hill in Spring
It’s not just for fall. Wineries like Lava Cap and Boeger are open for spring sipping, and the scenery is lush and green.

Amador Wine Country
Amador Wine Country offers fewer crowds than Napa, and it’s just as charming. Explore tasting rooms in Plymouth or Sutter Creek, and consider booking a stay at a nearby inn or vineyard cottage.

Lake Tahoe
Early summer hikes, lakeside dining, and crisp mountain air. Head to South Lake for more activity, or North Shore for a quieter pace.

Truckee
Truckee offers a blend of historic charm and outdoor adventure. Great for a bike ride along the Legacy Trail or a beer at Alibi Ale Works.

Bodega Bay
Enjoy cooler temps, stunning coastal drives, and fresh seafood in Bodega Bay. Pack layers and enjoy a picnic along the cliffs or a walk through Doran Regional Park.

Staycation Vibes
Fire up the grill, hang string lights in the backyard, play some classic lawn games, and enjoy a relaxing weekend at home with family and friends.

Spring is the perfect time to hit the road and explore the beauty of Northern California. Whether you’re looking for coastal breezes, rolling vineyards, or charming countryside escapes, here are three fantastic day trips or weekend getaways to soak up the season:

Bodega Bay – Coastal Views & Fresh Seafood

Just over two hours west of Sacramento, Bodega Bay offers breathtaking ocean views, fresh seafood, and scenic hikes. Take a walk along Doran Beach, explore the stunning cliffs at Bodega Head, or enjoy a bowl of clam chowder at Spud Point Crab Co. If you’re a Hitchcock fan, don’t miss The Birds Café—named after the classic film that was shot in the area!

Amador Wine Country – Rolling Vineyards & Hidden Gems

Less than an hour’s drive from Sacramento, Amador Wine Country is home to some of California’s best Zinfandels and charming, family-owned wineries. Spend the day wine tasting in Plymouth, grab lunch at a farm-to-table restaurant, and take in the peaceful countryside. Spring is an especially beautiful time to visit, with lush green hills and blooming wildflowers surrounding the vineyards.

Apple Hill in Spring – A Peaceful Countryside Escape

Apple Hill isn’t just for fall! In the spring, this beloved region is less crowded but just as charming. Stroll through scenic orchards, grab a freshly baked pie from High Hill Ranch, and sip local wines or ciders at Boeger Winery or Jack Russell Brewery. The warmer weather also makes it a great time for hiking, picnicking, and exploring the local farms and bakeries.

Bonus Idea: Wildflower Viewing in the Sierra Foothills

If you’re up for a little adventure, take a drive toward Bear Valley, Folsom Lake, or Table Mountain near Oroville to catch California’s wildflower super blooms. Bring your camera—the rolling hills bursting with color are a must-see!

Which spring getaway is calling your name? Drop your favorite springtime road trip destinations in the comments!

Easter Events & Activities:
Select Days: River Fox Train Easter Egg Express
Select Days: Sacramento Easter River Cruise
April 6: Easter Egg Hunt at Wolfe Heights
April 6: Spring Festival at Southgate Plaza
April 12: Eggs Galore & More + Bunny Breakfast
April 12: Arden Manor’s Annual Easter Egg Hunt
April 12: Hoppin’ & Huntin’ at Hagan
April 12: E2 Easter Egg Hunt in Elk Grove
April 12: Spring Soiree Craft Market in Roseville
April 12: Easter Egg Hunt in Rocklin
April 13: Spring Arts & Crafts Fair in Old Folsom
April 19: Underwater Egg Hunt
April 19: Easter Egg-Stravaganza at Fair Oaks Park
April 19: El Dorado Hills Easter Egg Hunt
April 19: Arden Park Easter Eggstravaganza
April 19: Old Sugar Mill Easter Egg Hunt
April 19: Easter Blast at Swanston Community Center
April 19: Easter in the Park – Downtown Sacramento
April 19: Always Hope Easter Run 5k/10k/13.1
April 19: Spring Hop & Egg Hunt by Fountains at Roseville
April 19-20: Spring Egg-Stravaganza at Fairytale Town
April 20: Hack the Farm 2025 Steam Infused Easter Egg Hunt

Spring Sports Schedule:
A’s Schedule
River Cats Schedule
Sac Republic Schedule

 

Other April Happenings:

Spring Fling Cocktails:

• Lemon & Lavender Spritz: A refreshing, floral-infused cocktail that’s as pretty as it is delicious.
• Peach Bellini: Sweet, fizzy, and perfect for toasting to spring!
• Cottontail Martini: Made with vanilla vodka, white chocolate liqueur, and a dash of heavy cream, it’s a creamy, indulgent treat that’ll make your brunch extra decadent.
• Easter Egg Fizz:  This effervescent cocktail combines gin, simple syrup, one fresh egg yolk, and lemon juice, topped with a splash of club soda. Garnish with pastel-colored edible flowers.
• Carrot Cake Martini: This indulgent cocktail features carrot juice, vanilla vodka, butterscotch schnapps, and a splash of cream liquor. Rim the glass with crushed nuts and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
• Easter Sunrise Margarita: Bring the colors of a sunrise to your party! Layer tequila, grapefruit and tangerine juice, triple sec, and orange blossom water for a visually striking cocktail.
• Easter Brunch Punch (Mocktail): This vibrant, non-alcoholic punch is a perfect addition to your brunch. Packed with citrus and berry flavors, it’s light, refreshing, and delicious!

Mouthwatering Mains & Sides:

• Spring Vegetable Frittata: Packed with fresh greens and herbs, this dish is light yet satisfying.
• Smoked Salmon Crostini: A simple yet sophisticated bite for brunching in style.
• Deviled Egg Chicks: Classic deviled eggs with a fun Easter twist!
• Grilled Asparagus with Lemon & Parmesan: Because no spring spread is complete without asparagus!
• Skillet Roasted Carrots: These skillet-roasted carrots are the perfect combination of sweet and tangy with honey and a splash of apple cider vinegar.
• Spring Salad with Berries & Bacon: This bright salad is perfect to offer as a lighter option alongside your heavier side dishes. The bite of the red wine vinegar and feta cheese cuts through all the richness.
• Hash Brown Nests: With crispy hashbrowns, cheesy eggs, and crumbled bacon, what’s not to love?
• Lemon Orzo Pasta: This Lemon Orzo Salad is made with fresh tomatoes, zucchini and basil, and the lemons make it light and refreshing.
• Easter Charcuterie Board: A festive and fun way to serve up a variety of Easter goodies, from cheeses to fresh fruits, and even some sweet treats.

Sweet Treats to Impress:

• Carrot Cake Cupcakes: Mini but mighty, these spiced cakes with cream cheese frosting are always a hit.
• Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf: Bright, citrusy, and the perfect companion to your morning coffee.
• Lemon Blueberry Cheesecakes: A bite-sized indulgence that feels light and springy.
• Peanut Butter Easter Eggs: A sweet, creamy treat with a peanut butter filling covered in chocolate.
• Bunny Bark: A fun and colorful dessert made with chocolate, sprinkles, and candy for a playful Easter snack.
• Birds Nest Cookies: Adorable and delicious, these treats are filled with chocolate and topped with candy eggs to resemble little nests.
• Cinnamon Roll Bunnies: Soft, sweet cinnamon rolls shaped like bunnies.
• Easter Egg Sugar Cookies: Festively decorated sugar cookies in the shape of colorful Easter eggs.
• Bunny Oreo Balls: A fun and easy-to-make treat that combines Oreos and cream cheese, shaped like bunnies for an adorable addition to your Easter dessert table.
• Easter Rice Krispie Treats: Classic Rice Krispie treats with a spring twist, made festive with pastel-colored marshmallows and candy.

Carrot Floral Centerpiece:
This gorgeous carrot centerpiece is a fun and fresh way to bring a pop of color and charm to your Easter table. Perfect for showcasing the season’s vibrant hues!

Mix & Match Pastels:
Soft pinks, blues, and yellows add a fresh and cheerful vibe. Pair pastel plates with neutral linens for a balanced look. Anthropologie offers a gorgeous selection of pastel-hued dinnerware, perfect for the season. Hobby Lobby also has a range of affordable spring dinnerware sets.

Egg-stra Special Touches:
Scatter gold foiled or speckled eggs across the table, use bunny-shaped place card holders, or tuck a mini chocolate egg into each bunny-shaped napkin fold.

Warm Glow:
Place a few taper candles or tea light candles in delicate holders to add a soft, inviting ambiance. For a unique touch, these velvet mushrooms can serve as whimsical candle companions.

Easter Brunch-Ready:
Don’t forget to set out a mimosa station or a DIY hot cross bun platter to keep the celebration going! Serve them on cabbageware-inspired plates to embrace the latest tablescaping trend.

Best Easter Brunch Spots:
Looking for the perfect place to brunch? These local favorites serve up delicious Easter Brunch Menus. Just be sure to make reservations in advance, as these venues tend to fill up quickly during the Easter season!

• Paragary’s Easter Brunch: Celebrate Easter at Paragary’s in Midtown Sacramento with a prix-fixe menu featuring dishes like smoked salmon, Dungeness crab cakes, and beet ravioli, all set in a lush garden patio. Available from 9 am to 3 pm. View their Easter Brunch Menu here.
• Grand Island Mansion:
Just 30 minutes outside Sacramento, enjoy a Champagne Brunch on April 20th from 10:30 am to 1:30 pm at this historic mansion. The buffet includes gourmet dishes like Shiitake Mushroom Crepes and Italian Toast with Toasted Almonds. Preview their full Easter Menu here.
• Capitol Garage: Known for its vibrant atmosphere, Capitol Garage offers an Easter brunch from 9 am to 3 pm with a variety of dishes from its weekend brunch menu along with $18 bottomless mimosas with the purchase of an entrée.
• The Firehouse Restaurant:
Nestled in Old Sacramento, The Firehouse offers a three-course Easter brunch from 9:30 am to 3:30 pm on April 20th, with dishes like Classic Eggs Benedict and Pistachio-Raspberry Cheesecake. Explore their Easter Menu here.

Farmers’ Market Finds:
Whether you’re preparing for your Easter brunch or looking to brighten up your table with seasonal blooms, Sacramento’s farmers’ markets offer a variety of local delights. Check out these local markets for everything you need for your Easter prep: Sacramento Farmers’ Markets.

Easter Treats & Gifts:
Need a beautifully curated Easter basket? These local shops offer the best chocolates, baked goods, and festive goodies:

• Ginger Elizabeth Chocolates: Handcrafted chocolates, including decorated bunnies and truffles, perfect for Easter gifts or indulging yourself.
• Capital Confections: Gourmet chocolates, including hand-dipped eggs and seasonal treats, perfect for Easter baskets.
• Estelle’s Patisserie: Elegant Easter macarons, cakes, and pastries that add a special touch to your celebration.

Spring is officially in full bloom! And what better way to welcome the new season than by adding some fresh flowers to your garden? Spring is the perfect time to bring color and life to your outdoor spaces. Here are some easy-to-plant flowers that thrive in the Sacramento area:

1. Tulips

These vibrant flowers are a spring classic! Plant them in well-drained soil, and they’ll bloom in a variety of stunning colors, adding a cheerful touch to your garden or pots.

2. Daisies

Cheerful daisies are low-maintenance and perfect for beginners. They thrive in full sun and can brighten up any space with their white petals and yellow centers.

3. California Poppies

As the state flower, California poppies are not only beautiful but also drought-tolerant. Their vibrant orange blooms will bring a splash of color to your garden, and they are easy to grow from seed.

4. Marigolds

These hardy flowers are great for both gardens and containers. Marigolds thrive in sunny spots and help repel pests, making them a practical choice for your spring planting.

5. Roses

Classic and timeless, roses are a favorite for many gardeners. Choose disease-resistant varieties for the best results, and enjoy their beautiful blooms and lovely fragrance throughout the season.

Adding a little greenery can brighten up any space. What’s your go-to flower to plant this time of year? Drop your favorite in the comments!

 

Pro Tip: Want to bring some of that fresh, clean air indoors? Add a spider plant! Did you know that a spider plant can absorb up to 95% of the chemicals (like formaldehyde and mold spores) from the air in your home in just 24 hours? One spider plant can purify up to 200 sq. ft., making it a natural air freshener.