Friday, May 6, 2016

Mother's Day Out

It’s time to celebrate Mom’s this Sunday!  In addition to the customary flowers and brunch (we still love Our Favorites from last year), we’ve got some other suggestions for a great weekend.  From flower festivals to chocolate celebrations and even some charitable activities, we know you and mom will have plenty to do.  

    
Everyone knows about the San Diego Zoo's extensive animal research and preservation program, as well as their unique collection from the animal kingdom, but did you know they have a world-renowned botanical garden throughout their grounds?  Thousands of rare plant species are integrated all over the park and this Saturday and Sunday (May 7th and 8th) the Zoo is celebrating their impressive flora with the Garden Festival.  The adults will love the Botanical Walking and Bus tours guided by an experienced horticulturist, and the kids will love the scavenger hunt and craft area.  And, everyone in the family will love the fascinating carnivorous plant exhibit in the Lost Forest area.  In case you want to go home with a botanical gift, they are having a plant sale with a horticulturist on hand to help chose the best plant for you.  Check out the schedule HERE, because the days will be jam-packed with must-see events.        



Mother’s Day wouldn’t be complete without some chocolate, and the San Diego Botanic Garden is hosting a Chocolate Festival on Saturday (May 7th) that will take care of any sweet craving you or mom might have.  From 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, you can try and buy dozens of divine chocolate confections, enjoy dipping treats in the chocolate fountain, and drool as you watch chocolate demonstrations.  Tasting tickets will be sold for $1 which will allow you to sample different delectable desserts.  There will be loads of children’s activities and music through out the day, and food from Isaac’s Catering, so feel free to come hungry.  Another plus: vendors will be selling not only chocolate, but other Mother’s Day  gifts like candles, beauty products and accessories.           



Start Mother’s Day off early and by doing some good with the San Diego Mother’s Day Run happening in Mission Bay on Sunday, May 8th.  This is the fourth annual Mother’s Day Run and check-in is bright and early at 7:00 AM.  Proceeds for the race will go to the San Diego Rescue Mission, which has been helping the homeless by providing not only food and shelter, but also medical needs, childcare, vocational training, and rehabilitation for over 60 years.  There will be three course options: 10K, 5K, and a Kids’ 100M dash, and all races will be held at DeAnza Cove Park.  Start the morning off with a lovely run (or jog or walk, all levels of runners are welcome), taking in the beautiful views of the cove, knowing you are helping people out.  Tickets for the race run between $35 and $45. 



For a more leisurely walk on Sunday, head over to the Coronado Visitor Center and Historical Association and Museum for their Coronado Historical Tour.  Every year different houses on the historic island will be opened to the public from the spectacular to the charming.   This year’s theme is “Coronado Home By the Sea,” and six different homes will be ready to view that represent this theme in either interior design, architectural style, or both.  The tour is from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM and tickets start at $40.  The Historical Association exists to preserve Coronado’s storied history and to encourage the public’s appreciation for the small landmarks that dot the island. 


This Mother’s Day there’s plenty to do to get out and enjoy the holiday, especially with the cooler temps.  With Mission Bay Vacation Rentals as your home base, you’ll be central to all the action, and at the end of the day, will have a relaxing place to retreat.  Something we know you and mom would enjoy.