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The calendar may be inching toward fall, but Folsom and El Dorado Hills are still very much in summer mode. There is music drifting through outdoor venues, people gathering around patios, and plenty of reasons to stay out a little later while the evenings are still warm. If your family is getting ready for the school-year shuffle, consider this a friendly reminder to sneak in a little fun before the schedules take over.
There is a lot to choose from this week, including a free orchestra performance, twilight concerts, Cars & Coffee, a night of ABBA, and even some line dancing for the brave. We also have a few local stories worth knowing, including a major anniversary for the Harris Center and good news for Blue Shield members who rely on Mercy Hospital Folsom.
Harris Center marks 15 years with a huge lineup
The Gist: Folsom's Harris Center for the Arts is celebrating 15 years with a packed 2026-27 season featuring country legend Tracy Lawrence starting Sept. 4, Shanghai Ballet on Oct. 18, and pop star Andy Grammer on Dec. 11. The lineup stretches into spring 2027 with fan favorites like Jazz at Lincoln Center on Jan. 26, Riverdance in early April, and MOMIX on May 10.
Why It Matters: Having world-class dance, comedy, and music right in Folsom means we get big-city entertainment without the hassle of a long drive. It is a fantastic excuse to plan a local date night, grab tickets with friends, and celebrate 15 years of arts right in our own backyard.
Mercy stays in-network for Blue Shield members
The Gist: Dignity Health, part of CommonSpirit Health, and Blue Shield of California finalized a new multi-year contract that took effect August 1. The deal keeps every Dignity Health hospital, facility, and provider in-network for Blue Shield members across the state, including Mercy Hospital of Folsom, which has served Folsom, El Dorado Hills, Cameron Park, and the surrounding foothills since 1989.
Why It Matters: For local Blue Shield members, it means no scramble to switch doctors or hospitals and no surprise out-of-network bills at the closest ER. Care at Mercy Folsom continues without disruption. The new terms are already in place as of August 1.
Comfort food for quiet school-night escapes
2700 E Bidwell St #700, Folsom
Visconti’s Ristorante has kept the lights warm and the pasta hand-crafted since 1992, running with the steady, quiet ease of a beloved family kitchen. As summer cools into predictable fall routines, the unhurried dining room (and recent return of patriarch Carmello) feels especially grounding.
Opt for a lively chat at the bar over an Italian sausage sandwich or slip into a booth for spicy Rigatoni alla Vodka and crisp sourdough. Generous plates, seamless hospitality, and sweet endings like Mama’s classic cannolis.
Petals and plush hoodies in a purple shop
359 Green Valley Rd, El Dorado Hills
You have likely passed the purple shop on Green Valley Road a hundred times. Since 1965, Flowers by Flores has brought hands-on care to El Dorado Hills. Send off summer with custom fresh arrangements, everlasting dried stems, or low-maintenance terrariums.
They even carry floral-print hoodies tucked past the plant display. Free delivery within ten miles makes bringing a vibrant splash of color to your table effortless.
Skip the Resort. Stay in a Centuries-Old Sicilian Village Instead.
Casa Gratteri offers beautifully restored homes in Gratteri, a hidden mountain town in Sicily with sweeping views, deep history, and zero crowds. Full concierge service, a private chef on request, and modern finishes throughout. This is the kind of trip people talk about for the rest of their lives.
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🎬 Live on the Boulevard: Folsom Lake Symphony | Marshall Amphitheater, Town Center | El Dorado Hills | 08/20 | More
Blockbuster film scores brought to life by a full orchestra. Free.
🎸 Twilight Summer Concert: Daze on the Green | Zittel Family Amphitheater | Folsom | 08/20 | More
Dance covers spanning rock, funk, country, and pop.
⚽ Friday Pick Up Soccer (Grass Pitch) | Ernie Sheldon Rink | Folsom | 08/21 | More
Casual pick-up games bringing local sports enthusiasts together outdoors.
🚗 Cars & Coffee | EDH Town Center | El Dorado Hills | 08/22 | More
Rare rides and hot coffee to start your Saturday. Free.
🚴♀️ Bike Park Weekly Maintenance Party | 1775 Creekside Dr | Folsom | 08/26 | More
Volunteers collaborate to maintain trail safety and keep the park pristine.
👟 Mom Walk • Sip & Stroll | meet at EDH Town Center | El Dorado Hills | 08/26 | More
Stroller-friendly morning walk and coffee with fellow local moms.
🍇 Sac Song & Wine Series | Lamoure Vineyards | Folsom | 08/21 | More
Acoustic singer-songwriters and local pours among the vines.
💃 ABBA Concert Experience | Harris Center | Folsom | 08/22 | More
Disco anthems and sequins for one big singalong night.
✨ Rock The Country Fest | Crawdads on the Lake | Folsom | 08/22 | More
Three live bands alongside waterfront views.
🤠 Line Dancing with Coach Aurora | EDH Town Center | El Dorado Hills | 08/25 | More
Boots optional, beginners welcome, laughing guaranteed. Free.
🌮 Tacos and Trivia | El Dorado Saloon & Grill | El Dorado Hills | 08/25 | More
Team brainteasers paired with street tacos and casual pub vibes.
❤️🔥 Mike Freund Solo Acoustic | 36 Handles Restaurant and Pub | El Dorado Hills | 08/26 | More
Laid-back acoustic classic rock and soulful blues.
A huge thank-you to all the teachers heading back to school. You deserve the laughs ahead more than anyone! ❤️
Thanks for reading our newsletter! We’ll have more updates for you next week!
