With all the recent rain, the hills will look like the Emerald City in time for St. Patrick’s Day March 17. So, where to celebrate? The Bank, at 14421 Big Basin Way, is always the site of much good-natured annual blarney. Or head to Many Friends Brewery at 14482 Big Basin “if you are looking to relax and enjoy good people and conversation without a lot of noise and rambunctiousness,” says owner Ted Oliveros.
Mad Hatter’s Tea at Montalvo Arts Center is coming up Sunday, March 19. Attendees are encouraged to don a fancy hat, beret, fascinator or other festive headgear for an afternoon of tea sandwiches, savory as well as sweet treats and, of course, tea. Sparkling wine is also available. There are three seating times, and tickets are $70 at www.montalvo.org.
It’s time for Hanami at Hakone. Tickets are on sale now to celebrate the cherry blossoms with special night viewings March 20-April 14. The blossoms are spectacular under the night lights. www.hakone.com
Roll up your sleeves to make Saratoga a cleaner place by pitching in during Let’s Work Volunteer Day on Saturday, April 8. Join the Parks and Recreation Commission to beautify and maintain the trails at Quarry Park. This volunteer group meets on the second Saturday of the month November through April. Volunteers should meet in the Quarry Park parking lot, bring gloves, water and sunscreen and wear closed-toed shoes and long sleeves. Submit a volunteer interest form by Wednesday, April 5, to www.saratoga.ca.us.
Save the date for the Saratoga Rotary Art Show, coming up May 5-6 at West Valley College. Parents at Redwood Middle School will host their annual pancake breakfast that weekend.
Over at the Saratoga Chamber of Commerce, they are offering social media marketing to help members grow their businesses. Get connected with other Chamber members and with the community by marketing events and deals on social media platforms, in weekly email blasts and on the Chamber website. Members can also use the Chamber’s stall at the Saratoga Farmers’ Market free of charge to distribute promotional materials. For more information, email info@saratogachamber.org.
Tickets are now on sale for the Mountain Winery’s summer concert series, including shows by the Righteous Brothers, Chicago, Kenny Loggins and Tower of Power. www.mountainwinery.com
A hearty congratulations to Mandala Indian Cuisine on their second anniversary. Owner Raj Shrestha said, “This is the first restaurant I’ve owned. I am grateful to the Saratoga community, who have supported me since opening. Saratoga is terrific.” Foodie favorites? “Avocado chaat and Royal Shahi Paneer,” says Shrestha, “Our avocado chaat is unlike any other.” 14510 Big Basin Way, www.mandalaic.com
If you have business or social news about Saratoga, please let me know: debby@debbyrice.com.
