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Two Chula Vista events that are not coming back in 2024

Kurt Bunch
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Two Chula Vista events that are not coming back in 2024

Oh, Chula Vista, you energetic little city. You’ve always had a special place in my heart, especially when it comes to finding fun family events. There’s never a dull moment here, with something for everyone to dive into month after month, especially as the warmer months bring their weekend full of fun events.

However, it would help if you braced yourselves for a bit of a bummer this year: we’re bidding goodbye to two of our beloved Chula Vista events. It’s a mystery why they’re pulling the plug, though I suspect it’s the usual suspects: cash, commitment, and the colossal effort it takes to entertain us. Sadly, these two events won’t be making their regular appearance in our summer lineup.

Las Jefa’s Market is not returning

By sheer luck, I once stumbled into an affair that quickly became a favorite of mine: Las Jefa’s Market, a haven where female entrepreneurs showcased their businesses & handcrafted items. Imagine a bustling bazaar of up to 20 vendors, each gathering under a new monthly theme. The event was located within the heart of the Otay Ranch Town Center.

The dynamic duo behind this magic, Rocky and Reyna, poured their souls into orchestrating these gatherings. My first time attending coincided with their two-year jubilee, and from then on, I was hooked, eagerly anticipating each month’s new theme and the chance to support local businesses.

Their final fiesta before a brief hiatus was a vibrant Dia De Los Muertos celebration, complete with live tunes and a spot for kiddos to unleash their creativity. Rocky hinted at a hiatus, with whispers of a revival in April at a fresh locale and a new twist. The details are still under wraps, but fear not—I’ll be on the lookout, ready to post when it’s time to rally behind them once agina in a new location.

Las Jefa's Market was a fun Chula Vista event.
Las Jefa’s Market would have different themes each month. I shot this at their last event in November.

Amps & Ales in Downtown Chula Vista is pulling the plug

Ah, Amps & Ales, the one event I always seemed to chase and never catch up to. In 2023, it grew into something bigger, sprawling beyond Memorial Park to even some of Third Avenue. I was excited to attend the event and have a good time. However, something came up, and once again, I was unable to participate in the event. Now I will never get the chance.

Amps & Ales was the popular event for lovers of local tunes and brews—a ticket was your golden key to taste-testing the finest brews & spirits in town. You also had the chance to check out up-and-coming local bands. Even without a ticket, you could’ve snagged a cheeky spot outside the perimeter, tunes tickling your ears, with a DIY six-pack sourced from a neighborhood brewery.

Rumor has it, the fest was a huge feat to pull off, financially speaking. Between fencing off public land, hiring security, and jumping through the city’s hoops, it seems the coffers couldn’t keep up. Now, there’s chatter about pivoting to more family-friendly fare. But hey, who says grown-ups don’t deserve their own playground now and then, especially with Third Avenue’s brewery scene?

Amps & Ales was a Chula Vista event
Sadly, Amps & Ales has played its last day in 2023. The Chula Vista event will not be coming back for 2024. Photo Credit Downtown Chula Vista

What Chla Vista events are you looking forward to

Fear not Chula Vista! Our calendar is still packed with events that will keep our spirits high and our agendas full. One such event I’m eagerly anticipating is the Earth Day celebration at the marina, set for April 13th. Last year was an absolute blast, and I’m excited to see how they’ll top it in 2024.

Then there’s the CV Art Fest, which I’m on pins and needles waiting for confirmation. It had so much creativity last time, and rumors are swirling that the city’s busy dotting the i’s and crossing the t’s to bring it back this year. Rest assured, as soon as I get the green light, you’ll hear it from me first.

So, what’s got you marking your calendars in anticipation this year? I’m all ears and ready to keep you in the loop with all the goings-on around town. Remember to hit that like and follow button on Instagram and Facebook to stay connected!

Chula Vista Live Steamers Run

Kurt Bunch
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Chula Vista Live Steamers Run

Chula Vista Live Steamers are back for public runs. This weekend, the Chula Vista Live Steamers are having their first run since the tracks were destroyed in January. If you remember, we had some hefty rains, and the Rohr Park area took a lot of damage and flooding. With the help of volunteers and donations, they have fixed the track and will have their first run today and Sunday.

If you want to know when they’re having their next public run, check out our event calendar. We also post plenty of stuff on our social media networks.

Chula Vista Bayfront; More development’s are getting ready to break ground

Chula Vista Blog
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Chula Vista Bayfront; More development’s are getting ready to break ground

For a considerable time, the Chula Vista Bayfront bore the marks of neglect, with industries moving away and a conspicuous absence of investment. The fleeting excitement over the potential for a new San Diego Chargers stadium offered a glimpse into the possibilities, rebranding Chula Vista with a dash of sports glamour. Unfortunately, the momentum fizzled out, leaving the bayfront awaiting its next chapter.

Chula Vista Bayfront: The Transformation Begins

Now, the narrative is drastically changing. Chula Vista’s Bayfront stands on the cusp of an extraordinary transformation, primarily propelled by the construction of the Gaylord Pacific resort. This monumental project replaces the former Chula Vista RV Resort, signaling a bold new era for the marina.

Scheduled to open its doors in the summer of 2025, the 1,600-room resort hotel and convention center have already sparked further development interest. Close on its heels, the Pacifica Companies are launching the ambitious Amara Bay development, a stone’s throw from Gaylord Pacific. This 35-acre endeavor will boast a 250-room hotel, 1,500 condominiums across seven towers, and extensive commercial and office space, offering a fresh vibrancy to the area.

Despite its scale, the project has flown under the radar for many until recently, highlighting its potential as a hidden gem in Chula Vista’s development landscape.

Bayview Point will be taking these empty lots at the Chula Vista Bayfront
Bayview Point will take these empty lots at the Chula Vista Bayfront. The project is set to break ground soon.

Job Creation and Economic Boost

Amara Bay’s project manager, Jack Straw, is optimistic about the area’s growth potential, emphasizing the significant job creation expected from the project. Another notable development, Bayview Point, is set to introduce a 400-room Marriott Hotel, affordable housing, and more, further bolstering the local economy and job market.

Yet, with growth comes the inevitable challenge of increased traffic, a concern that residents and city planners alike must address to ensure the bayfront’s revitalization enhances, rather than hampers, local quality of life.

Chula Vista Bayfront will also take up this land
Amara Bay Chula Vista is also getting ready to break ground on this empty lot north of H Street.

If you want to read more and get the details on these two developments, please visit the Port of San Diego website.

The Gaylord Hotel & Resort Effect

The impact of Gaylord Hotels on local economies is well-documented, with the Gaylord Rockies in Aurora, Colorado, serving as a prime example. What once was an empty field has transformed into a bustling hub of activity, a testament to the transformative power of strategic development.

Be sure to check out our video of the Chula Vista Bayfront progress here. You can also follow us on YouTube for even more Chula Vista Videos.

A Mixed Reception From The Residents

Witnessing the marina’s metamorphosis evokes a mix of excitement and skepticism. The anticipation of experiencing the Gaylord Pacific firsthand reflects a broader curiosity about the bayfront’s future. The community stands at a crossroads, pondering whether this large-scale development aligns with their vision for the area or if a more subdued approach would be preferable.

As Chula Vista’s Bayfront embarks on this ambitious journey, the community watches with bated breath, eager to see this new chapter unfolding. Whether for or against the scale of development, the conversation around it promises to shape the bayfront’s identity for generations.

Taste of Third Avenue: A Delicious Celebration of Chula Vista’s Culinary Scene

Kurt Bunch
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Taste of Third Avenue: A Delicious Celebration of Chula Vista’s Culinary Scene

The highly anticipated Taste of Third Avenue event took place on Thursday, March 22nd, transforming the streets of downtown Chula Vista into a lively celebration of local cuisine and culture. Organized by the Downtown Civic Association, this annual affair drew enthusiastic crowds eager to sample downtown Chula Vista’s diverse flavors.

I love going to this event each year as it allows me to sample new eateries and then come back and support them. Tickets to this year’s event were $40, which is well worth the price. My wife and I will usually eat off of just one ticket. Many of the participants give you a good sample portion.

The Vibrant Atmosphere

The downtown area was very lively for the event, and plenty of people came out to enjoy it. The aroma of sizzling dishes and the rhythmic beats of music set the perfect backdrop for an afternoon of indulgence. Once you pick up your food passport, you can stroll to the various locations on the map.

What truly set this event apart from previous events was the Downtown Civic Association’s commitment to sustainability. Reusable utensils were provided, minimizing the event’s environmental impact and aligning with Chula Vista’s eco-friendly values. Many locations still provided plastic forks and spoons, but I tried to avoid them and use my handy utensils.

Taste of Third Avenue stand-out favorites

One of the highlights was undoubtedly Shake and Muddle’s Ahi Tuna Tostada. Its harmonious blend of flavors left me craving more. In years past, I didn’t get to venture out this far, so I missed the opportunity to give them a try. This is one spot I will definitely be back to try for dinner or even Sunday Brunch.

Equally impressive was Agave Coffee & Cafe right next door. They had vegan chilaquiles & mini taco samples. The portion size was huge, and every bite was delicious. It has been a long time since I have visited Agave, but I will be sure to visit more often.

Some new kids on the block that participated this year

Another favorite of the night was La Nacional. They’re a new spot along Third Avenue, their first time participating. The sample was a Chicharron with guacamole and a house-rolled chicken flauta. You also got to sample their Paloma, which was really good.

Brewjeria Taproom & Kitchen is also a new spot that participated. They recently took over the El Cruce 241 location. I was able to speak with the new owner briefly, and he gave me some insights into what they have planned for the location.

I look forward to the changes and will update you once they finalize everything. If you visit, get the Grapes of Wrath beer; that was my favorite.

There was one new spot that had a long line to get your sample: the new Kalavera’s restaurant. Not only did you get a delicious, whole serving of one of their mocktails, but they also gave you a sample of the Pasta a la Diabla & Barbacoa. I can see why they had such a long line; the food was delicious, and the drink was so good. Kalavera’s has been a solid favorite of mine ever since they moved in along Third Avenue.

Kalavera's was a hit at the Taste of Third Avenue
Kalavera’s was a big hit at the Taste of Third Avenue. They had a long line out front.

What was your favorite stop during the event

So, did you get the chance to enjoy the Taste of Third Avenue? What did you think, and who was your favorite spot? There were so many to try. A big shout-out and thank you to all the participating restaurants and breweries. I know it is a lot of hard work to put this on.

If you missed this year’s event, follow me for more. I always give you the scoop on fun events in the community. You can find me on Instagram, Facebook, and Threads. If you really want to be part of the in-crowd, then join my newsletter for all the cool happenings in the area. See you at the next event.

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