Fresh Off the Press
What's New in SCV
September is here and the SCV calendar is full. Labor Day weekend kicks things off with Pizza al Tramonto at Santa Cruz Brewing, then Celebrate Mexico on September 11, GRACEFEST at Castaic Lake on September 19, the Economic Outlook Forecast on September 25, and Gilchrist Farm's Harvest Festival September 26-27. New cafes and bakeries keep arriving, and the holiday season is on the horizon.
Last updated August 31, 2026 · by Sam Silver
Happening Now in SCV
September in Santa Clarita is packed: Labor Day weekend kicks it off, then Celebrate Mexico, GRACEFEST at Castaic Lake, and the harvest season follow. Here is what Sam is tracking for the month, newest first.
Pizza al Tramonto at Santa Cruz Brewing
The newest event on the SCV calendar. Stone-fired Neapolitan pizza from 5-9 PM, craft beer on tap, and live music from The Future X-Husbands from 6:30 PM until close at Santa Cruz Brewing Co., 27825 Fremont Ct. #13. The perfect Labor Day weekend night out.
GRACEFEST — Music & Message Festival
A music and message festival at Castaic Lake State Recreation Area running from 1:30 PM. Live performances, community spirit, and the beautiful Castaic Lake setting. A unique late-summer event that brings people together through music and shared purpose. Free admission, family-friendly.
2026 Economic Outlook Forecast
The annual SCV Economic Outlook Forecast returns to the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center at College of the Canyons. The 7 AM breakfast event brings together business leaders, community stakeholders, and residents to hear expert projections on the local economy, real estate trends, and development outlook. A must-attend for anyone invested in SCV's future.
Gilchrist Farm Harvest Festival
Mark your calendars for the annual Harvest Festival and Pumpkin Patch at Gilchrist Farm. Hayrides, corn maze, farm animals, face painting, pumpkin patch, and fall food vendors. A beloved SCV family tradition that kicks off autumn.
Full Fall 2026 GuideLabor Day Weekend in Santa Clarita — Sept 4-7
Sam just published his complete Labor Day weekend guide. Catch the Summer Trolley's final rides (last run September 8), enjoy Hurricane Harbor's last summer push, ride the SCV Beach Bus to Ventura Harbor (final weekends through Sept 6), and start your fall plans — Celebrate Mexico, GRACEFEST at Castaic Lake, the Doo Wop Project at CanyonPAC, and the Oktoberfest season are all right around the corner.
Past Events from August & Earlier
These events have already wrapped for the season. They are archived here for reference and clearly marked as past.
Makers & Music Festival
A three-day celebration of creativity and community at Central Park. Artisan vendors, live music performances, food trucks, and family-friendly activities. Free admission. Wrapped up August 7-9.
Concerts in the Park
The 2026 summer concert series at Central Park wrapped on August 29 with The Police Experience. Free live music all summer, 7 PM at Central Park. Check back next summer for the 2027 lineup.
SENSES Block Party: Tropical Summer
The third-Thursday Main Street block party's Tropical Summer edition ran August 20. The season finale, the SENSES Oktoberfest, returns September 17.
Celebrate: Jamaica
The Celebrate Series' Jamaica edition ran August 14 at Canyon Country Community Center. The season finale, Celebrate: Mexico, returns Friday, September 11.
Food Truck & Vendor Festival
The three-day festival at Central Park featuring food trucks, local artisan vendors, and live entertainment wrapped August 28-30. Free admission. See you next year.
Evening of Remembrance
A solemn community gathering at the Youth Grove in Central Park. This annual event remembers SCV youth lost in traffic-related incidents and serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of safe driving. The ceremony includes reflections, candle lighting, and community support for families. Open to all who wish to honor and remember.
Curated by Sam Silver, 22-year SCV local. New events added as they are confirmed.
Looking Ahead: Holiday Season Preview
Believe it or not, planning season for SCV's holiday events is here. The schedule is shaping up: Veterans Day Ceremony on November 11 at Veterans Historical Plaza, Light Up Main Street on November 21 in Old Town Newhall, and Holiday in the Park at Six Flags Magic Mountain from November 26 through January 3. Plus Make a Difference Day, the city's annual volunteer day of service, is coming in October with hands-on projects supporting local nonprofits across the valley. Sam has the full preview in his Holiday & Winter Events Guide, plus a brand new Holiday Light Displays & Neighborhood Tours Guide covering Wakefield Winter Wonderland (Candy Cane Lane), the River of Lights, and the Holiday Light Tour trolley.
Outdoor Recreation
Haskell Canyon Bike Park
720 Acres · 15+ Miles of Trails · Open 2026
Santa Clarita just landed one of the most significant outdoor recreation additions in its history. The Haskell Canyon Bike Park, a $7.4 million mountain biking facility spread across 720 acres of the Haskell Canyon Open Space, is now open to riders of all skill levels.
The park features over 15 miles of purpose-built trails, including cross-country loops, climbing paths, and — for the first time in Santa Clarita — directional downhill-only trails. There are slopestyle lines, downhill jump trails, dual slalom courses, beginner-to-advanced pump tracks, and a dedicated skills learning zone.
Whether you're a seasoned downhill rider or a family looking for a new weekend adventure, this is the kind of facility that puts SCV on the map for outdoor recreation. Sam has already been out on the trails — reach out and ask him for his favorite routes.
720 Acres
Haskell Canyon Open Space
15+ Miles
Of purpose-built trails
Downhill Trails
First in Santa Clarita
All Levels
Beginner to expert riders
Development
Valencia Town Center Expansion
175,000+ Sq Ft of New Dining & Entertainment
Valencia Town Center — the valley's primary shopping and gathering hub — is undergoing its biggest transformation in years. Developer Centennial is adding over 175,000 square feet of new dining, entertainment, and lifestyle space in a phased rollout through 2026 and 2027.
The centerpiece is a massive 125,000-square-foot Round1 Bowling & Arcade going into the former Sears location. Round1 will feature bowling, karaoke, Japanese arcade games, the "Spo-cha" sports challenge area, and a YUU Japanese Food Hall — making it a major entertainment destination for the entire valley.
Alongside Round1, the center is adding 10 new dining and lifestyle tenants, including KPOT Korean BBQ & Hot Pot, Panini Kabob Grill, Cinnabon, and more. The new establishments are opening in phases throughout 2026.
If you haven't been to Valencia Town Center lately, it's worth a visit — the energy is palpable, and the options are better than ever. Sam can tell you what's worth trying first.
New & Coming Soon
Round1 Bowling & Arcade
125,000 sq ft of bowling, karaoke, Japanese arcades, and the YUU Food Hall. Under construction at the former Sears site.
KPOT Korean BBQ & Hot Pot
All-you-can-eat Korean BBQ and hot pot — a dining concept that's been drawing crowds across Southern California.
Panini Kabob Grill
Fast-casual Mediterranean with fresh kabobs, wraps, and bowls. A solid lunch option for Valencia locals.
Cinnabon
The beloved cinnamon roll chain joining the Valley's food court scene.
YUU Japanese Food Hall
Part of the Round1 complex — a curated food hall featuring multiple Japanese cuisine vendors under one roof.
Additional Tenants
More dining and lifestyle brands are being announced in phases. Check back for updates as new tenants are confirmed.
New Restaurants & Cafés to Try
SCV's dining scene keeps growing. Beyond the Town Center expansion, here are the recent openings and local spots worth checking out — curated by someone who eats his way through the valley for a living.
Chick-fil-A — I-5 & Magic Mountain Pkwy
Opened May 2025 with a drive-thru-focused layout. One of the most anticipated fast-food arrivals in recent SCV history — expect lines during peak hours but fast throughput.
CAVA — Valencia
The fast-casual Mediterranean chain has arrived in Valencia, offering customizable bowls, pitas, and salads. Popular with the lunch crowd and health-conscious diners.
San Fernando Coffee Co. — Canyon Country
A welcome addition to Canyon Country's coffee scene, bringing craft drinks and a neighborhood café vibe to Soledad Canyon Road.
Dutch Bros Coffee — Now Open in SCV
The Oregon-based drive-thru coffee chain is now open and serving Santa Clarita Valley. Known for creative drinks and upbeat baristas — a hit with the younger crowd and anyone who loves a fast, fun coffee run.
Yard House & Texas Roadhouse — Now Open at River Oaks
Two popular sit-down restaurants are now open at the River Oaks Shopping Center in Valencia, bringing more dinner options to the area. Yard House offers an extensive beer list and American fare, while Texas Roadhouse serves up hand-cut steaks, fall-off-the-bone ribs, and their signature bread.
Angry Chickz — Nashville Hot Chicken
SCV's hottest new arrival. Angry Chickz opened its first Santa Clarita location on June 16, 2026 at 19187 Golden Valley Road — the brand's 41st nationwide. Nashville-style hot chicken sandwiches, tenders, and loaded fries with heat levels from mild to "angry." Drive-thru available. Already drawing crowds.
Booku Poboys — Soledad Canyon Road
A welcome addition to Canyon Country's dining scene. Located at 18511 Soledad Canyon Road, Booku Poboys serves up authentic New Orleans-style po'boys — fried shrimp, roast beef, oyster, and crawfish options. A hidden gem for Cajun-Creole cravings in SCV.
Black Bear Diner — Coming to Soledad Canyon
A second Black Bear Diner location is coming to Santa Clarita at 16526 Soledad Canyon Road. The beloved family-friendly chain known for hearty breakfasts, giant pancakes, and comfort food will serve Canyon Country and the eastern side of the valley. Opening later in 2026.
Luna Grill — Coming to Stevenson Ranch
The popular fast-casual Mediterranean chain is opening a Stevenson Ranch location, bringing fresh made-to-order bowls, plates, and salads to the west side of the valley. Another great option for healthy, flavorful dining in SCV.
Sweet Red Peach — Scratch-Made Treats
A charming scratch-made sweet treats shop on Bouquet Canyon Road that has quickly become a local favorite. Cookies, cupcakes, brownies, and seasonal desserts made from scratch daily. The kind of neighborhood bakery that makes SCV feel like a small town. Perfect for a weekend treat or a special-occasion order.
Café 86 — Modern Café on Newhall Ranch Road
A modern café on Newhall Ranch Road serving up ube lattes, creative coffee drinks, fresh pastries, and a warm neighborhood atmosphere. The kind of spot that SCV's coffee scene needed — a place where you can sit, sip, and stay a while. A welcome addition for locals looking for something beyond the chain coffee shops.
Sam's Established Favorites
The new openings are exciting, but don't sleep on the classics: Newhall Refinery for craft cocktails, 85C Bakery for Taiwanese pastries, the Saugus Café for breakfast since 1898, and Philz Coffee for that perfect pour. For weekend mornings, check out Sam's new complete brunch guide to SCV — from Egg Plantation to The Daily Harvest.
New Guide: SCV Wine Trail & Tasting Rooms
Santa Clarita Valley's wine scene is thriving and Sam just mapped it all out. From the tasting rooms on Main Street in Old Town Newhall (Pulchella, Reyes on Main with its rooftop, Pagter Brothers, Hoi Polloi, Bivium) to the vineyard estates at Agua Dulce Winery and Reyes Winery in Agua Dulce the complete SCV Wine Trail Guide is live. Perfect for date night, a weekend crawl, or a tasting-room tour without leaving the valley.
Read the Wine Trail GuideNew Guide: Castaic Lake Recreation Guide
Just 15 minutes from central SCV, Castaic Lake is the valley's backyard escape. Sam's brand new guide covers swimming at the Lagoon beach, paddleboard and kayak rentals, fishing for striped bass and rainbow trout, hiking trails with panoramic lake views, camping, and family picnic areas. It is your complete resource for a perfect lake day in Santa Clarita Valley.
Read the Castaic Lake GuideNew Guide: Best Brunch Spots in SCV
Looking for the perfect weekend brunch in Santa Clarita Valley? Sam just published his curated guide to the best brunch spots across Newhall, Valencia, Saugus, and Canyon Country — from fluffy omelets at Egg Plantation to açaí bowls at The Daily Harvest and the historic Saugus Cafe serving since 1898.
Read the Brunch Guide
Concerts in the Park — Full Lineup
The 2026 season is here — eight Saturday nights of free live music at Central Park. Here's the complete schedule so you can plan your summer evenings.
Dreaming of You
Selena Tribute
FABBA
ABBA Tribute
RagDolls
Aerosmith Tribute
Gold Rush Country
Top 40 Country Hits
Blue Breeze Band
Soul, Motown & R&B
Paramore! At the Disco
Paramore & Panic! Tribute
Kenny Metcalf as Elton John
Elton John Tribute
The Police Experience
Tribute to The Police
All shows at 7:00 PM · Central Park, 27150 Bouquet Canyon Rd · Free admission · Bring blankets & chairs
City Event Page
Summer 2026 in SCV
Peak season in the Santa Clarita Valley means outdoor concerts, lake days, and long golden evenings on restaurant patios. Here's how to make the most of summer in SCV.
Lake Days at Castaic Lake
The 323-acre Castaic Lake is SCV's go-to summer escape. Boating, jet skiing, fishing, swimming, and camping are all available. The lower lagoon has a swim beach that's perfect for families. About 15 minutes from central SCV — go early on weekends to avoid the crowds.
Lake Info & HoursBeat the Heat: Summer Hiking
Summer temperatures in SCV regularly hit 95–105°F. The key? Start early. Hit the trails at Towsley Canyon, Placerita Canyon, or Haskell Canyon Bike Park before 8 AM when it's still in the 70s. Bring plenty of water, wear a hat, and stick to shaded canyon trails over exposed ridgelines. Sam's summer hiking rule: if you can't leave by 7 AM, save it for evening.
Concerts in the Park
Now in its fourth decade, SCV's most beloved summer tradition runs eight Saturday evenings from July 11 through August 29 at Central Park. Free admission, food trucks, picnic blankets — the whole valley shows up. The 2026 lineup features tribute acts from Selena to The Police.
Full 2026 Lineup AboveOutdoor Dining Season
Summer is patio season in SCV. Newhall Refinery's Main Street patio, Pocock Brewing's beer garden, and Salt Creek Grille's shaded terrace are all prime spots for warm-weather dining. Most Valencia Town Center restaurants also have outdoor seating. Sam's tip: golden hour at a patio table on Main Street Newhall is one of the best dining experiences in the valley.
SENSES Block Party
The third Thursday of every month from April through September, Main Street in Old Town Newhall shuts down for SCV's most popular recurring event. Live music, food vendors, craft cocktails, and a buzzing community atmosphere. It's free, it's lively, and it's the best way to experience Newhall's restaurant and nightlife scene.
New This Summer
Celebrate Series & the Crest to Coast Trail
Two fresh additions to SCV's community landscape this summer: a free monthly cultural celebration in Canyon Country and an ambitious trail project connecting the mountains to the coast.
Celebrate Series
Canyon Country Community Center
The City of Santa Clarita's Celebrate Series is a free, family-friendly cultural event series held on the second Friday of each month from April through September at the Canyon Country Community Center. Each evening features live performances, cultural demonstrations, food, and community activities that highlight the diverse heritage and talents of SCV residents.
It's a perfect weeknight outing — free, local, and designed to bring Canyon Country neighbors together. The summer 2026 lineup continues through September, with each month spotlighting a different cultural theme. Sam recommends checking the city's events page for the specific monthly theme before you go.
View City Event PageCrest to Coast Trail
Newhall · Under Construction
One of the most ambitious trail projects in SCV history is taking shape. The Crest to Coast Trail is a planned multi-use trail that will eventually connect the Pacific Crest Trail in the San Gabriel Mountains to the Ventura County coast — and a key section runs right through Newhall.
Volunteer trail-building sessions through the SCV Trail Users group began in early 2026, with community members helping to clear and construct the Newhall portion of the route. When complete, the trail will give SCV residents a direct hiking and biking link from their backyard to the mountains and eventually the sea.
This is the kind of long-term infrastructure investment that makes SCV's outdoor lifestyle even better. Sam has been following the project closely — reach out if you want to get involved with the volunteer trail-building days.
LA County Trail PlanGilchrist Farm, Old Orchard Park & More
Gilchrist Farm Harvest Festival
Mark your calendars for September 26–27, 2026. Gilchrist Farm in Santa Clarita hosts its annual Harvest Festival and Pumpkin Patch — a beloved family tradition with hayrides, a pumpkin patch, farm animals, and fall activities. A great way to kick off the fall season in SCV.
Old Orchard Park — Now Open
The renovated Old Orchard Park in Newhall is now open with new playground equipment, a multi-sport court, ADA-accessible restrooms, and a pickleball court overlay. A solid upgrade for one of Newhall's most-used neighborhood parks.
Pioneer Oil Refinery Park
Santa Clarita's newest park, built on the site of one of California's oldest oil refineries, is now open to the public. The park highlights SCV's industrial heritage with interpretive signage, walking paths, and preserved refinery remnants. A unique blend of history and green space.
Summer Pools Open
Santa Clarita's outdoor pools opened for the season on June 15. The Santa Clarita Aquatic Center and neighborhood pools across the valley offer recreational swim sessions, lap swim, and youth swim programs throughout the summer. A cool way to beat the heat.
Summer Breeze Music Festival
The annual Summer Breeze Music Festival returned to the California Institute of the Arts on June 20, 2026. This CalArts community event brings live music, performances, and creative energy to one of SCV's most unique cultural venues. Already happened for 2026 — but worth putting on your calendar for next year.
Railroad Avenue Bike Trail
The City allocated $1.5 million for a new Class I bike trail along Railroad Avenue as part of the 2025–26 Capital Improvement Plan. This project expands SCV's connected trail network and provides a safer cycling route for commuters and recreational riders alike.
More SCV Updates at a Glance
Beyond the big headlines, Santa Clarita continues investing in parks, trails, and community infrastructure. Here's what else is happening across the valley.
The Rink Sports Pavilion — Coming Summer 2026
A brand-new multi-use recreation facility at the Santa Clarita Sports Complex. Roller skating rink with basketball, pickleball, and volleyball court overlays, 200-seat spectator area, and commercial kitchen. Opening later this summer.
Shakespeare Festival: "Coriolanus" — Jul 31–Aug 2
The Santa Clarita Shakespeare Festival presents Coriolanus at The MAIN on Main Street. Four performances, free with advance registration through Eventbrite. A cultural highlight of the SCV summer.
David March Park Renovation — Complete
The major renovation and expansion in Canyon Country is now complete — new basketball courts, baseball fields with shaded seating, an exercise staircase, and upgraded community amenities.
FIFA World Cup Watch Parties
SCV soccer fans showed up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Local restaurants and bars are hosting watch parties — check KHTS and social media for the latest spots.
13,000+ Acres of Open Space
Santa Clarita's protected open space now exceeds 13,000 acres with over 100 miles of trails — and it keeps growing.
Camp Clarita Summer Programs
City-run summer camps for kids of all ages with outdoor activities, arts, sports, and educational programs throughout the valley.
ArtWalk Newhall Monthly
The monthly ArtWalk continues to grow, featuring local artists, galleries, live music, and creative showcases in Old Town Newhall.
Holiday in the Park — Save the Date
Six Flags Magic Mountain's beloved winter wonderland returns later this year with lights, snow, and holiday shows.
Fresh Content
New SCV Life Guides
Sam is always adding new content to help you get the most out of life in Santa Clarita Valley. Here are the latest guides fresh off the press.
Dog-Friendly Santa Clarita Valley
The complete guide to SCV with your four-legged family member. Three off-leash dog parks — Central Bark, Canine Country, and Five Barks — plus pet-friendly hiking trails across Placerita Canyon, Whitney Canyon, and Towsley Canyon. Dog-friendly restaurant patios at Egg Plantation, Wolf Creek Brewing, Lazy Dog, Newhall Refinery, and Route 66 Classic Grill (which offers a Doggie Happy Hour with free treats). Plus veterinary care, grooming, pet supply stores, and Sam's perfect dog-friendly day itinerary.
Back-to-School Guide 2026
Everything SCV families need to know for the 2026-2027 school year. The William S. Hart Union High School District starts August 11. Complete guide to school districts, registration deadlines, after-school programs at the Boys & Girls Club, SCV Youth Sports, and the Santa Clarita Public Library. School supply shopping tips, morning routine strategies, and Sam's advice for families moving to SCV for the schools.
Want the Latest SCV Intel?
Sam stays plugged into everything happening in Santa Clarita — from new restaurant openings to park developments to market shifts. Follow him for real-time updates or reach out anytime.