AROMAS — Aromas Day is celebrating its 30th year on Aug. 25., bringing the community together for family fun in the heart of the small rural town.
Things kick off early with a pancake breakfast at the Aromas Grange from 7-11 a.m. For $8 guests can enjoy a plate of eggs, pancakes, ham or sausage, coffee and juice.
Festivities begin at 9 a.m. Roads are closed to traffic and the town is transformed into a walking mall. Activities include live music, dancing, handcrafts, jewelry, public art, food and drink and more.
“There’s something really special about Aromas Day,” said event coordinator Jan Saxton. “It’s a great atmosphere; always relaxed, friendly and open.”
As always, the event will support local organizations, with some opening food booths. Free informational booths are offered to non-profits.
Saxton said that while on the surface the event is about having fun, the underlying reason for it is giving back to the community.
“We do all this work for the organizations,” she said. “That’s our main focus.”
Live entertainment will be held on two separate stages this year. Folklorico Youth Dancers from Monterey and Santa Cruz County will start things off at 10 a.m., with rock ’n roll band The Quarry Boys following at 11 a.m. Doug the Surfing Magician will perform his comedic magic show at 12 p.m., followed by funk-soul-blues band The Gold Souls at 1 p.m. Blue Avenue will close the day with a set at 3 p.m.
Saxton began volunteering for Aromas Day back in 2003—not long after she moved to the area.
“It’s how I met all my friends,” she said. “It’s a great way to get connected with the community.”
Art in the Park with the Aromas Hills Artisans will return this year, as well as Garage Sale Alley and a classic car show. There will also be a petting zoo, pony rides, games and more.
A Kid’s Korner, with agriculture and art projects, will be offered to young attendees.
Things will culminate at 2 p.m. with a community parade.
“The event brings in a great mix of people from all over the Central Coast,” Saxton said. “We have such a lovely little town and it’s a great way to share it with others.”
•••
Parking will be available on Aromas Road, with a free shuttle-wagon service to the event throughout the day. For a full Aromas Day 2019 schedule, a list of this year’s sponsors and other information visit aromasday.com.
