As days become longer and flowers begin to bloom across the land, it’s the perfect time to come out of winter hibernation. Whether you’re looking to refresh your wardrobe or trying to catch golden hour, here are five locally based events happening over the next few months to help you lean into the new season.

Plantology Clothing Swap & Plant Market

Doing some closet spring cleaning recently? Well, Plantology Cafe in Oceanside has the perfect opportunity to refresh your closet. On March 21, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m, they are hosting a Clothing Swap & Plant Market in collaboration with the Happy Girl Club. It’s a great hangout for those who love thrifting and plants. The rule is simple: just bring a bag of gently used clothes to donate. Then you can leisurely shop and swap while sipping a drink from the cafe. There will be giveaways from Classy Casita, and any donations will benefit the Women’s Resource Center. You can register at Happy Girl Club website. For more information or questions, visit their Instagram page.

South Lake Park

If you’re looking to stay close to campus, South Lake Park might just be for you. Just a 5-minute drive from campus, the park has a one-mile trail with only a few gradual inclines. Most notable for the California Lilacs that often bloom in the early spring months of March and April. You might be able to get in your floral fix without being overwhelmed by crowds and price tags since the entrance is free. Even without the bloom, the trail provides an easy way to get in some movement. The surrounding lake offers a calm and meditative escape by the water without having to go far. Parking is limited, so going during peak times like the weekend isn’t highly recommended.

Foodieland

Down at Del Mar Fairgrounds, Foodieland returns from May 1 to May 3. A 3-day event that starts on Friday from 3:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. and Saturday/Sunday times are from 1:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Foodieland hosts over 250 vendors that serve a wide variety of foods from pasta in a cheese wheel to Hawaiian honey cones. Tickets are $12 per person, and parking is $16 per vehicle if purchased in advance (or $20 per vehicle at the door). It’s a splurge to most, but an interesting social experience as one of the largest food festivals in the West with a primary inspiration from Asian night markets and street food. More information can be found on their website here.

Belching Beaver Bingo Nights

Looking for a laid-back Thursday night that isn’t just staying home? Check out Belching Beaver in Oceanside at Rocky Point Drive. Every Thursday, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. they host multiple rounds of Bingo open to all ages. It’s free to play with prizes for all and if your group brings enough energy in the last round, you might just win a prize for the duration of your stay. It’s a great way for families and students to wind down with some local craft beers. The brewery features rotating food truck vendors as well as events throughout the week, like Bingo Thursdays. Check it out here for more information.

Fox Point Farms

Tucked away in Encinitas, Fox Point Farms offers what they call Sunset Sessions on Fridays from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Where they host live music, food specials, and local vendors. Open to all ages for free, Fox Point provides a chill night that feels like a backyard party just on a larger scale. Aside from their sunset sessions, it’s a great spot to check out during the day for their fresh produce market, cafe, restaurant, and various classes in their wellness studio. Tickets can be reserved through their website here.

No matter where you explore first, these activities give you the perfect opportunity to unplug and see the beauty within our own backyard.