California’s Nuts
When 8 out of 10 people around the world bite into an almond, their nut comes from California. That’s real global reach! While the almond typically ranks as California’s second or third most valuable crop (milk & cream are #1, and grapes are #2 or #3, depending on the year,) the nut’s annual value is huge — typically exceeding $5 billion. It’s no wonder California’s nuts. Just days ago on Feb.16 the California almond industry celebrated National Almond Day with a big campaign to get the entire nation eating one of California’s top crops.
Don’t limit yourself to just one nut, however. California Assembly Bill 1067 approved by the governor on July 10, 2017 made the almond, pistachio, pecan and walnut all the State Nut. Yup, we grow lots of nuts in California. To say we’re a nutty bunch would be an understatement.
Californians go nuts in Fresno County and Central Valley each spring, driving the Blossom Trail February through April. And if just looking at blossoms isn’t enough, get crazy with at a festival where you can eat, drink and say “thanks” for the bounty.
California Festivals
- Ripon Almond Festival and Parade Feb.23-25, 2018
- Capay Valley Almond Festival Feb.25
- Sanger Blossom Trail Bus Tours & Wine Tasting Feb.24-25
- Sanger Blossom Day Festival Mar.3
- Reedley Blossom Trail Train Mar.3-18
- Orange Cove Blossom Festival and Parade Apr.7
- Chico’s California Nut Festival Apr.21
- Hughson Fruit & Nut Festival Apr.28-29
- Kerman Almond Festival May 5
