The weather is — FINALLY — cooling off, so it’s a great time to get out and about and enjoy everything the 209 has to offer. In this issue we feature a few places and activities to make your fall one to remember.

“Pumpkins are like Christmas trees. When little kids see them, their eyes light up and they smile.” This year marks the 40th annual Sunrise Kiwanis Manteca Pumpkin Fair, which takes place in downtown Manteca on Oct. 5 and 6. The street fair celebrates the fact that 70% of California’s commercially grown pumpkins roll out of Manteca every year.

Missing the mountains? Once autumn brings colder temperatures to the High Sierra, those yearning for happy trails could stick to the lowlands or wait until spring to lace up their boots. Consider a third option, though: a medium-Sierra destination like Yosemite’s Hetch Hetchy.

And be sure to check out our Marketplace section. Local interior designer Wendy Glaister was recently recognized as she received an ASID ANDYZ Award for 2024 Best Outdoor Space. The American Society of Interior Design (ASID) ANDYZ Awards’ is an annual celebration of the year’s Best in Interior Design. Glaister’s Outdoor Oasis project that landed the award for Best Outdoor Space features a four seasons design concept and multiple areas for outdoor entertaining.

Thank you for taking the time to read this and every issue of 209 Magazine. We welcome your comments, calendar events and stories. We hope you will support the businesses and charities that have chosen to partner with us. We appreciate them and look forward to being the most relevant magazine in your home, a place called 209. 

Hank Vander Veen

Publisher/Owner 209 Magazine

hvanderveen@209magazine.com