Welcome back to North Valley Flare!

Summer is officially settling into North Valley, and this week's issue is packed with ways to make the most of it. From outdoor concerts and local events to Italian favorites, farmers market finds, and a few great spots to catch a sunset, there's plenty happening around Vista and San Marcos.

We've also got lovable Valley Tails pups looking for a forever home, a local video worth watching, and a spotlight on one of our favorite community businesses.

Thanks for being part of North Valley Flare. We hope you discover something new this week.

Have a wonderful week,

Good Vibes. Great Stories

— The North Valley Flare Team

🌅 Fun Fact

Did you know?

Double Peak Park in San Marcos sits more than 1,600 feet above sea level and offers one of the highest public viewpoints in North County.

The City of Vista's Culture Caravan travel program is back for summer 2026, offering organized trips to cultural events. This year's highlight includes an August showing of Guys and Dolls at the Moonlight Amphitheatre.

The program handles all logistics from transportation to ticketing. Participants enjoy the company of fellow community members while experiencing the region's cultural offerings.

Residents can book trips through the City of Vista's Recreation and Community Services Department. The 2026 Culture Caravan brochure is available online and at the Civic Center.

A new affordable housing community for seniors has opened near Vista.  La Sábila offers 85 homes for adults aged 55 and older in unincorporated San Diego County.

The community features one and two-bedroom apartments with senior-friendly amenities and accessibility features. On-site health and wellness services support residents' physical and mental well-being.

La Sábila addresses the severe shortage of affordable housing in San Diego County. Rents are subsidized through federal, state, and local funding to keep them within reach of low-income residents.

Interested seniors can apply at lasabilaapts.com. Early application is encouraged due to high demand.

Cal State San Marcos researchers may have discovered a new banana slug species at Palomar Mountain. The team, working with the San Diego Natural History Museum and Los Angeles County Museum, found the isolated population through photos on a nature app.

Banana slugs are California's official state slug and serve as important forest decomposers. UC Santa Cruz adopted them as mascot in the 1980s.

Researchers are conducting genetic analysis to determine if this is a new species or an existing species far from its known habitat.  CSUSM students gain hands-on experience through the RESCUE-Net undergraduate research program.

Professor Sergio Nigenda Morales notes the discovery's significance: It's in our backyard, so we can just go and try to study them.

The San Marcos Summer Concert Series kicks off June 27 at the Wood House in Woodland Park. James Kruk performs Elvis and Johnny Cash tribute shows from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m.

Kruk is known for authentic tribute shows capturing the spirit of these music legends. The Johnny Cash portion features favorites like Ring of Fire and I Walk the Line, while the Elvis tribute showcases hits from across Presley's career.

The Wood House at Woodland Park (1148 Rock Springs Road) provides an ideal outdoor setting. Attendees should bring lawn chairs and blankets. Food vendors will be on-site.

Season passes are nearly sold out. Individual tickets available online or at the gate.

456 E Mission Rd
San Marcos, CA 92069
1 760-571-0094
https://burnbootcamp.com/

🎶 Summer Concert at Walnut Grove Park

Friday, June 26, 2026 | 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
📍 Walnut Grove Park, San Marcos

Summer officially arrives in San Marcos as the city's popular Summer Concert Series kicks off at Walnut Grove Park. This week's featured performer is The Mighty Untouchables, a high-energy band known for keeping crowds on their feet with a mix of dance favorites and crowd-pleasing hits. Bring a blanket or lawn chair, gather family and friends, and enjoy a classic North Valley summer evening under the stars. Admission is free.

🚗🍷 Cars & Corks at Burtech Family Vineyard

Saturday, June 27, 2026 | 10:30 AM – 2:00 PM
📍 Burtech Family Vineyard, Vista

Exotic vehicles, live music, brunch, mimosas, and local wine come together for one of the most unique events happening in North County this weekend. Cars & Corks returns to Burtech Family Vineyard, bringing together automotive enthusiasts and wine lovers for a relaxed morning in Vista wine country. Whether you're a car enthusiast, wine lover, or simply looking for something different to do this weekend, this event offers a fun mix of incredible vehicles, vineyard views, and summer vibes.

🎵 Happy Hour & Live Music at Twin Oaks Golf Course

Wednesday, June 24, 2026 | 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
📍 Twin Oaks Golf Course, San Marcos

Looking for a midweek excuse to enjoy a beautiful North County evening? Twin Oaks Golf Course is hosting Happy Hour & Live Music featuring local performer Alex Elisabeth. Grab a seat on the patio, enjoy happy hour food and drink specials, and take in panoramic views of the course while enjoying live music in a relaxed outdoor setting. It's a great way to unwind after work or kick off an early summer evening with friends.

🤝Business Bites

Wednesday, June 24, 2026 | 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
📍 Leucadia Pizza Shadowridge, Vista

Grab lunch and make a few new connections at this month's Business Bites networking event. Hosted by the Vista Chamber of Commerce, Business Bites brings together local business owners, entrepreneurs, and professionals for an hour of networking, conversation, and community building. Whether you're growing a business, looking to expand your network, or simply enjoy meeting other local professionals, this casual lunchtime gathering is a great way to stay connected to the North County business community.

🍝Ciao Italian Restaurant

A Vista Favorite for Italian Hospitality

Some restaurants become local favorites because of a trendy menu or social media buzz. Others earn their reputation the old-fashioned way—through years of consistently good food and welcoming hospitality.

Tucked away in Vista, Ciao Ristorante Italiano has quietly built a loyal following among North County diners. Ask longtime residents where they like to go for Italian food, and there's a good chance Ciao will be mentioned. From classic pasta dishes to hearty entrées and warm service, the restaurant has become one of those dependable spots locals are happy to recommend to friends and family.

In a dining landscape where restaurants come and go, longevity says a lot. For many Vista residents, Ciao has become more than a restaurant—it's a place where birthdays are celebrated, date nights are enjoyed, and family dinners become traditions.

🍕 Buona Forchetta  

Bringing Modern Italian Flavor to San Marcos

Located in the heart of North City, Buona Forchetta has quickly become one of San Marcos' favorite spots for wood-fired pizza, handmade pasta, and authentic Italian flavors. The restaurant blends a modern atmosphere with traditional recipes, creating a dining experience that feels both upscale and welcoming.

Known for its award-winning Neapolitan-style pizzas, fresh ingredients, and lively atmosphere, Buona Forchetta has earned a loyal following among locals looking for everything from casual family dinners to date nights and celebrations. The bright dining room, open kitchen, and signature wood-fired oven help create an experience that feels just as memorable as the food itself.

Whether you're craving a classic Margherita pizza, house-made pasta, or simply looking for a great place to gather with friends, Buona Forchetta continues to be one of San Marcos' standout dining destinations.

🍫 The Nutella Cloud- Marley's Cafe 

Every now and then, you spot something at the farmers market that stops you in your tracks.

This week, that honor goes to the Nutella Cloud from Marley's Cafe. Thick-cut bread is transformed into a decadent treat, topped with rich Nutella and finished with a cloud-like drizzle that turns heads every time it comes out of the kitchen.

It's indulgent, shareable, and exactly the kind of farmers market discovery that keeps people coming back week after week to see what's new.

If you're planning a visit to the market this weekend, this sweet treat might be worth adding to your must-try list.

Will you take me home? I promise to give you lots of love. 🐾♥️

😄 North Valley Dad Joke

What do you call a sunset over North County?

A daily reminder that you forgot to charge your phone before taking pictures.