Yearly event grows Eastvale adds to summer picnic

EASTVALE - For this growing community, Eastvale Community Events Committee officials knew one day would not be enough for the annual Picnic in the Park.

So the committee expanded the picnic to three days, adding a concert and a carnival.

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Picnic in the Park
WHEN: Today, noon to 10 p.m. (fireworks at 9:45 p.m.); Sunday, noon to 5 p.m.

WHERE: Harada Heritage Park, 13100 65th St., Eastvale

COST: Free

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"People are really starting to look forward to the event. This isn't just people in the area. We're getting people from the surrounding communities," said Lupe Nava, co-chairwoman of the event along with Kathie Bogart.

Picnic in the Park was started by committee members four years ago to offer events to the community, Bogart said.

When it was first being put together, there were no other summer events in the area.

"There was a time when we were like an island. We didn't even have a grocery store in the area," Bogart said. "We didn't even have recreational events to our parks."

Aside from entertaining the community, both Bogart and Nava hope the event brings a sense of community to Eastvale. They also hope it will become a tradition.

"It's just something to do, and maybe you'll meet someone who lives right next to you or down the street," Nava said.

As a one-day event, Picnic in the Park would typically draw 4,000 people,

with a couple hundred more going to the fireworks show at night, Nava said.
But with the new format, Nava said she is anxious to see what the turnout will be.

The Jurupa Community Services District is helping with the picnic, and the Eleanor Roosevelt High School Climate Boosters club is helping with the carnival rides.

Nava said the group tries to make improvements every year. One such improvement is the food. Last year, many people complained about the lack of food options.

This year, there will be 40 food vendors, including Izzy's Baja Fresh and the popular Pink's Hot Dogs.

Friday kicked off with food, rides and a performance by The Legendary Mustangs, whose members include Riverside County's 2nd District supervisor, John Tavaglione.

Today's activities include carnival rides and food vendors, and a fireworks show at 9:45 p.m.

Sunday will feature the carnival rides and more food and fun.

Nava said the intent is not to try to compete with other events in the community, which is why the event is always held the weekend before the Fourth of July.