The North Table Mountain Ecological Reserve is a 3,300 acre elevated basalt mesa that is host to a huge variety of wildflower species. From February all the way through May you can find flowers in bloom on Table Mountain, but April is generally the peak of the wildflower bloom. There are 2 waterfalls on the reserve that flow for a while after the rains stop, but by late spring they slow down considerably. Access passes are required by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife for anyone over 16 years of age. For more information and lots of pictures, check out this blog on Wildflower Hikes.
March 22nd: Kite Day 12 - 4 PM
This free annual event is fun for anyone that enjoys the magic of a kite. Connect with your inner child or bring kids of your own to this fun community event. There will be food trucks and music, and anyone flying a kite will get a free souvenir. This event is held at Community Park on the South end of Chico off 20th street.
April 11th: Spring Jamboree 10 AM - 12 PM
Kids 8 years and under can meet the Easter Bunny and hunt for colored eggs. There are 3 egg hunt time slots for the different age groups: 0-3 yrs. at 10 AM, 4-5 yrs at 11 AM, and 6-8 yrs. at 11:45 AM. There will also be bounce houses and crafts to enjoy. This event is held at Caper Acres Playground - Bidwell Park One-Mile.
April 25th: Spring Carnival
Held at the Chico Creek Nature Center from 3 - 6 PM the Spring Carnival has it all: bounce houses, face painting, carnival games and food trucks. Admission is free, and activity tickets are 4 for $1 or $20 for an unlimited Carnival Fun Pass. This event is recommended for families with children ages 3 - 8 yrs.
Starting April 5th and running through September, the Thursday Night Market is a favorite for Chico residents and visitors. Fresh local produce, crafts from local artisans, live music and great food can all be found downtown on Thursday nights from 6 - 9 PM. The event goes on, rain or shine, with over 100 local vendors as well as many downtown businesses that stay open later to accommodate the crowds.
One of Chico's greatest treasures is Bidwell Park. With 3,670 acres stretching almost 11 miles, Bidwell Park comes alive in the springtime. One of the most noticeable changes is in Upper Park, where wildflowers and grasses pop up in spring but only last for a short time before drying out in summer. Spring is a great time to get to Upper Park for a hike or bike ride. Check out this extensive list of Upper Park Trails.
There is so much to do in the springtime when you're apartment living in Chico! Since spring is the season for moving for so many people, we have compiled a list of 16 Mind Blowing Tips to make the process easier.