Sweet Success: The 2025 Chula Vista Lemon Festival Was Pure Magic
What a weekend, Chula Vista! If you were lucky enough to stroll down Third Avenue this past Saturday, you witnessed something truly special. The 2025 Chula Vista Lemon Festival wasn’t just an event; it was a major gathering that drew a large crowd.
I’ve been covering community events in our beautiful city for years, and I can say with complete confidence that this festival hit different. The energy was infectious, the turnout was phenomenal, and honestly? It felt like the whole neighborhood came alive.
The Heart of Downtown Was Beating Again
Walking down Third Avenue, I couldn’t help but smile at every turn. Downtown Chula Vista transformed into this vibrant community celebration that reminded all of us why we love events like this. “I have been coming to the Lemon Festival for the past 10 years, and this year it is bigger and better all around.” Said Victoria a Chula Vista resident in line to purchase some lemonade.
The Downtown Association & Fuse Events absolutely nailed the layout this year. By placing vendors right down the center of Third Avenue, they created this natural flow that drew people into our local shops and restaurants. It was brilliant. Our small business owners were beaming as people discovered their storefronts and decided to pop in for a bite or some shopping. When I heard about this new layout, I was a little skeptical, but after seeing it, I want it to stay for all events.
Be sure to check out our video about the Chula Vista Lemon Festival 2025 here.
Traditions Old and New
Can we talk about the pie-eating contest for a minute? Finally! This beloved tradition made its triumphant return, and watching the crowd gather brought back many memories. There’s something wonderfully ridiculous about adults diving face-first into lemon pies while their friends cheer them on. It’s pure, unfiltered community joy.
Kurt Bunch, our unofficial community cheerleader (and yes, Mr. Chula Vista himself), was right there in the competition. “That was a lot harder than I thought it was going to be. The pie was heavy and that custard was thick. There was no way I was winning that.” Kurt said after the contest. He might have come in last, but at least he gave it his best effort.
The brand-new dance stage on F Street was another winner. All day long, that intersection was packed with families swaying to the music, kids showing off their moves, and couples sneaking in a dance or two. The live bands kept the atmosphere buzzing, and honestly, it felt like the whole festival had a soundtrack.
More Than Just Lemons
Sure, we came for the Lemonade, but we stayed for the vendors, music, and good vibes all over. People were genuinely happy to be there, walking around and finding something new. It’s not just about the vendors who come in for the event, but the local businesses who call Downtown Chula Vista home. Residents might have discovered a business they never knew was there and that is the part we all love.
Our city’s agricultural roots run deep; we were once known as the Lemon Capital of the World, after all, and this festival honors that heritage while celebrating who we are today. It’s not just about looking backward; it’s about bringing our community together. Remember, Chula Vista, it’s events like this that make this community great. If you didn’t have a chance to come out, then keep following, because there are more events right around the corner.
Looking Ahead
As someone who is passionate about our city’s growth and spirit, I’m already dreaming about next year. Maybe we could add a classic car show? More interactive activities for the littlest festival-goers? Extended seating areas so families can settle in and enjoy their treats?
But honestly, this year set such a high standard. The combination of beloved returning traditions and thoughtful new additions created something special.
If there is something you would love to see Chula Vista, let us know on our Facebook page. We love to share all the comments with the festival orginizers so they know what to add next year. You can follow us on Facebook here.
Chula Vista Living’s return to the festival after 18 years
If you stopped by the Chula Vista Living booth, you witnessed a moment that was pretty exciting. This year’s event was our return to the Lemon Fest after an 18-year absence. Kurt even had a photo of the booth from the 2007 Lemon Festival. That was back when Chula Vista Living was a magazine. Now 18 years later Chula Vista Living and Kurt Bunch have become the hub of community empowerment.
“So many people didn’t know I have been doing this since 2007 and promoting the city in the best way. They now see me on all the socials and having that platform lets me reach even more people which I love.” Said Kurt with excitement. You could tell he was loving the attention.
It was also the launch of the Chula Vista Living Shop. Many people were asking where they could purchase his custom t-shirts, and now they can be bought online. Their only do you get a cool Chula Vista shirt, but it also helps support Chula Vista Living. So many of the small businesses you see Kurt visit don’t pay anything for the promotion. You can help by making a purchase online or even at the next event.
Be sure to visit our online store here.
Until Next Year
This weekend reminded me exactly why I chose to make Chula Vista my home and why I love sharing our city’s stories with all of you. From the volunteer coordinators who made everything run smoothly to the local vendors who brought their A-game, from the families who showed up with their biggest smiles to the community leaders who keep making events like this possible; thank you.
The 2025 Lemon Festival was more than an event. It was a celebration of everything that makes our community special: our history, our present, and our bright future ahead.
We will see you at the next event Chula Vista!
