Giant Pumpkin Festival New Record

Brian Werner from Gridley, CA, smashed our site record today with a massive 2,147-pound pumpkin, earning him the top prize of $7,000. This marks Brian's first win—and his biggest pumpkin yet!

Brian, who’s been growing pumpkins for more than two decades, celebrated the win surrounded by his family. He shared that growing giant pumpkins keeps his mind sharp and helps him unwind after a long day. It’s not just a hobby — it’s a labor of love that connects him with a community of fellow growers he proudly calls his “pumpkin family.”

5th Annual ARTgrove Día de Los Muertos

Local Hero Of the Week

Honoring Randy Jackson- A Legacy of Faith and Investment in Elk Grove’s Youth

After more than fifty years of serving with Young Life, Randy Jackson is stepping into retirement, but his legacy will echo for generations.

What began as a high school sophomore simply tagging along with friends to a Young Life club became a lifelong mission to reach young people with hope, faith, and purpose and to introduce them to Jesus Christ.

Randy has spent decades walking alongside teens, helping them see that their lives matter and that they are capable of far more than they realize.

When asked what message he’d share with Elk Grove, his answer was simple but profound: “Invest in your kids and support the groups that work with them.” In a world full of noise and distraction, Randy reminds us that the most lasting difference we can make is to show up for the next generation with consistency, compassion, and faith. To know Christ is to know life!

Restaurant Of The Week

If you haven’t tried West Coast Taco Bar yet, stop reading and add it to your weekend plans. This local favorite is quietly taking over Elk Grove’s taco scene with bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and a little West Coast swagger.

What Makes It Special

Every taco here feels handcrafted — because it is. The kitchen crew at West Coast Taco Bar doesn’t cut corners. Their menu hits everything from classic carne asada and al pastor to creative spins like birria, smoked brisket, and Korean BBQ tacos. And don’t even think about skipping the Mexican street corn or their cult-favorite coconut horchata.

Locals rave about the balance of flavor and heat — enough kick to wake up your taste buds but not so much you can’t taste the layers of spice and smoke.

 The Local Buzz

Located at 9320 Elk Grove Blvd, West Coast Taco Bar has become a go-to for quick lunches, date-night dinners, and late-night cravings after a brewery stop. You might’ve already seen their taco truck popping up at events around town — it’s one of the best ways they keep their roots in the community.

Yeah, lines can get long, and seating can be tight during the rush, but almost everyone agrees: the wait is worth it.

 Why We Love It

• Flavors that actually hit — not watered down, not gimmicky.

• Local team with heart, often supporting community events.

• Great value for top-shelf tacos.

• A rotating food truck that brings the flavor to you.

If Elk Grove has a flavor, West Coast Taco Bar is a big part of it. Bring a friend, order too many tacos, and don’t skip the street corn.

 Hours: 11 AM – 9 PM (Mon–Sat)

 Location: 9320 Elk Grove Blvd, Elk Grove, CA 95624

 Website: westcoasttacobar.com
 Instagram: @westcoasttacobar

Adopt-A-Pet

Meet Josh Hartnett — this handsome Boxer mix is ready for his forever home!

Josh is an adult male with a friendly, medium-energy personality. He’s currently at Elk Grove Animal Shelter / City of Elk Grove Animal Services and is eager to meet folks who can let him show off his charm.

Visit him during shelter hours (Tue–Sun, 12:00pm–6:00pm) at 9150 Union Park Way, Elk Grove. 

Call (916) 687-3042 or email EGASadoptions@elkgrovepd.org

Note: all animals adopted via Elk Grove’s shelter are spayed/neutered, microchipped, vaccinated.

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