Photo by Stephen Sutton
Lilacs: (VERY Early this year!)
Common Lilacs (Syringa vulgaris)
These flowers were brought over in the 1700’s from Europe and cultivated all over the United States. They only bloom for a few weeks, usually in May in a variety of colors from white to magenta and a variety of pinks and light blues in between. They are extremely fragrant, and some of the most fragrant are cultivated in France and used to make perfumes. Many towns in the U.S. have their own “official lilac” as registered with the International Lilac Society. Many of those “official lilacs” were cultivated right here in Idyllwild. As you will see, Idyllwild has a very interesting history with Lilacs.
There was a woman named Reva Ballreich whose father built a cabin in Idyllwild in 1928. Her family spent many happy years visiting this cabin and Reva was given piano lessons in the cabin starting at age 4. She became a world class pianist, studied at Juilliard, and played with several symphonies including under the great Leonard Bernstein. But at age 46, Reva had to quit piano due to carpel tunnel syndrome in her wrists. She left her piano career behind and 10 years later moved to Idyllwild to the family’s cabin. She met a local who grew lilacs and she became enthralled with cultivating her own unique cultivars (that’s what you call a plant that has been selectively bred for certain attributes). She eventually became the president of the International Lilac Society and cultivated many unique lilacs for specific cities to call their own. Spokane, Washington’s official lilac called “Spokane” was cultivated by Reva here in Idyllwild.
In 1996, a part-timer named Gary Parton became friends with Reva through the Idyllwild Garden Club, and Reva “chose Gary” to be the recipient of most of her beloved lilacs. Gary opened “Alpenglow Lilac Gardens” on Fern Valley Road to the public every lilac season. Gary recently sold his property and the new owners are opening the grounds for the public to see all the blooming Lilacs this weekend. Reva’s original cabin and gardens were on Marian View, but the lilacs were not maintained after the sale of her property. Reva passed away in 2009 at the age of 86.
You can read her story in the 2014 edition of the Idyllwild Historical Society’s “ARTI-FACTS” publication by clicking here.
California Wild Lilacs (Ceanothus)
You have probably been noticing all the beautiful bushy purple flowers along the highway lately… they are Wild Lilacs. They are very hearty and drought resistant. They are endemic (specific) to California and a tasty treat for butterflies and other animals at this time of year. They are edible if you feel like picking some for your salads. The Historical Society’s garden has several beautiful Wild Lilacs blooming right now. It’s free to visit and meander around. Bring a picnic and sit on the picnic tables.
Weather: Highs of 55 – 75 – Lows of 40 – 48
Idyllwild Sun/Moon (Rise/Set) Calendar
Next Full Moon: Friday May 1st
What Restaurants are open or closed today?
Where can I get a quick snack?
Live Music Around Town This Week
Click Below
PCT Hikers Page
Although the PCT Association recommends hikers attempting to hike the entire PCT Trail northbound (2,650 miles from Mexican border to Canadian border) NOT start until mid-late April, inevitably, we will start to see PCT hikers coming through Idyllwild. About 50 hikers a day usually start the trail at the border heading north.
Thursdsay April 9th
Climate Change
With Larry Kawano
Idyllwild Trailer Park Clubhouse
6:00 pm
Everyone Welcome
Friday April 10th
Past Life Regression Soundbath
With Carrie
Idy Hot Yoga
54960 Pine Crest #3
5:30 pm
$40
Saturday April 11th
Garden Club Class
“Square Foot Gardening”
Community Garden
Alderwood & North Circle
10 am – 11 am
Open to Everyone
Cost $10
Saturday April 11th
Microscopes, ARts & Crafts
Idyllwild Nature Center
25225 Hwy. 243
11 am – 1 pm
Saturday April 11th
Silly Saturdays Improv Troupe
Idyllwild Arts
Rush Hall
1:00 pm
Public Welcome
Come see our student-run IAA Improv Troupe perform! Produced with mentorship and guidance from Dramatic Arts faculty member Jeanette Knight, these performances are fun, silly, and even have audience participation in the tradition of the great Improv Clubs. Come out and laugh!
Saturday April 11th
Journey Into Yoga Nidra
Little Earth Angel Wellness
23350 Hwy. 243 (Across from Pine Cove Market)
3:33 pm – 5:15 pm
$60
Cancelled due to weather
Saturday April 11th
Bingo Night Fun-Raiser
Benefitting Idyllwild Garden Club
Doors Open 4:30
Snacks available for purchase
5:00 pm Games Start
Saturday April 11th
IMPROV Gone Wild!
Rustic Theatre
7:30 pm
Sundays
Farmer’s Market
Town Hall
25925 Cedar Street
9am – 2pm
Sunday April 12th
Live Pottery Demonstration
Mountain Pottery
54240 Pine Crest Ave.
1:00 pm
Sunday April 12th
Women’s Circle
With Robyn Winks LMFT
St Hugh Episcopal Church
25525 Tahquitz Dr.
Presented by Spirit Mountain
3:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Monday April 13th
Beat Nite
Middle Ridge Winery
6:30 – 8:30
Tuesday April 14th
Tomorrow (Wednesday) is Tax Day.
You must have your return to the post office tonight if you want it to go out in the 7:45 am mail tomorrow.
Don’t Forget!
Tuesday April 14th
Quilters Monthly Meeting
Community Church
54400 North Circle
9 am
Tuesday April 14th
Library Program w/ Bob Greenamyer
“Gardening from the Ground Up”
Idyllwild Library
5:30 pm
Tuesday April 14th
Line Dancing
Above The Peak Restaurant
Tahquitz Pines
55251 South Circle
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Wednesday April 15th
Tax Day.
Wednesday, April 15th
Storytime at the Library
“Dueling Dinosaurs Day”
Idyllwild Library
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Get ready for a “pre-historic” showdown as we explore the fossils and fierce rivalries of the ancient world!
Wednesday April 15th
Drum Circle
Spirit Mountain Retreat
25661 Oakwood
4:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Wednesday April 15th
Kids Book Club
“Beyond the Bright Sea”
Idyllwild Library
4:30 pm
This month’s discussion will be on Lauren Wolk’s “Beyond the Bright Sea.” Set on an island in the 1920s, a determined twelve-year-old girl sets out to uncover the truth of her mysterious past and the origins of the shipwreck that brought her to her adoptive family. Discussion will be followed by a craft and snack.
Thursday April 30th
Community Benefit
For Julie & Miles
Middle Ridge Winery
6:00 pm
Friday April 17th
Past Life Regression
& Sound Bath
IDY Hot Yoga
54960 Pine Crest Ave. #3
5:30 pm – 7 pm
More info: 970-520-7116
Saturday and Sunday
April 18th – 19th
Lilac Gardens Open!
25025 Fern Valley Rd.
1 pm – 5 pm
Saturday April 18th
Rotary Pancake Breakfast
Town Hall
8 am – 12 noon
Saturday April 18th
Memorial for Bruce Watts
Idyllwild Nature Center
(Outside in Amphitheater )
10:00 am
Saturday April 18th
Energy Healing
With Janette & Suzie
Spirit Mountain Retreat
1:00 – 3:00 pm
Sunday April 19th
Spring Senior Social
Silver Pines Lodge
1:00 – 3:00 pm
Sunday April 19th
Memorial for Gary Budnick
Spirit Mountain Retreat
25661 Oakwood St.
4:00 pm
Tuesday April 21st
Shelter System Talk
Community Center
54195 Ridgeview Dr.
5:00 pm
Wednesday April 22nd
Associates of Idyllwild Arts’
Spring Social on Strawberry Creek
3 pm – 7 pm
Open to anyone interested in the Associates
Pre- Registration required.
Thursday April 23rd
Grand Opening
Lily’s
54905 North Circle Dr.
4:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Saturday April 25th
Idyllwild Arts 80th Anniversary
12:00 President’s Luncheon
2:00 Red Carpet Event
3:00 Performance
5:00 Champagne Toast
Saturday May 2nd
Bounty Hunters Fan Tribute
Rustic Theatre
12 noon – 8 pm
Live Mural Painting
Fan Film Screenings
Cosplay Competition
DJ
What’s happening at the Rustic Theatre?
$15 ADULTS & $12.50 SENIOR/ CHILDREN
Matinee $12.50 (12:00 Show)
Mon – Thur $10
Tuesday is Closed Captions
Saturday April 11th
IMPROV Gone Wild!
Rustic Theatre
7:30 pm
Starts Friday: EPIC
Elvis Presley in Concert
Rated PG-13
Run time: 1 hr. 36 min.
Thursday:
Last Night for Hoppers – 6:00
Friday @ 6:00 pm
Saturday @ 12:00 & 3:00
(Comedy Show 7:30)
Sunday @ 12:00, 3:00 & 6:00
Monday @ 6:00
Tuesday @ 6:00
Wednesday @ 6:00
Thursday @ 6:00
Coming Soon: You Can’t Hide
The Idyllwild Library – 951-659-2300
Thursday 10 am – 6 pm
Friday 10 am – 6 pm
Saturday 10 am – 6 pm
Sunday CLOSED
Monday CLOSED
Tuesday 11 am – 7 pm
Wednesday 11 am – 7 pm
Tuesdays
Mah Jongg
12:00 am – 3:30 pm
Calling all Mah Jong players!! Do you enjoy the game of Mah Jong? The Mah Jong game group meets every Tuesday in the library Community Room. All players are welcome.
Tuesday April 14th
Library Program w/ Bob Greenamyer
“Gardening from the Ground Up”
Idyllwild Library
5:30 pm
Wednesday, April 15th
Storytime at the Library
“Dueling Dinosaurs Day”
Idyllwild Library
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Get ready for a “pre-historic” showdown as we explore the fossils and fierce rivalries of the ancient world!
Wednesday April 15th
Kids Book Club
“Beyond the Bright Sea”
Idyllwild Library
4:30 pm
This month’s discussion will be on Lauren Wolk’s “Beyond the Bright Sea.” Set on an island in the 1920s, a determined twelve-year-old girl sets out to uncover the truth of her mysterious past and the origins of the shipwreck that brought her to her adoptive family. Discussion will be followed by a craft and snack.
We have KITTENS!
Lots and lots of kittens. Stop by to meet them, and choose yours. Not all are ready to go home yet. Besides these 2 batches, we have another mommy that just gave birth to 13 more. Call ARF to schedule a visit. 951-659-1122.
Body & Soul
Click Here for a list of Yoga, Pilates, Aerobics, Meditation & Hypnosis in Idyllwild.
San Jacinto Trail Report
Snow, weather, & trail conditions for the San Jacinto Mountains
Next Food Distribution Apr. 23rd
Don’t forget to order your box!
Order any time prior to
Monday 4/20 noon!
Idyllwild Historical Museum
Open Saturday & Sunday 11am – 4pm
54470 N Circle Dr.
Stop by the museum and check out all the displays about the logging era, early tourism, & rock climbing history. We would LOVE for you to join the Historical Society. Annual memberships start at just $15. Click here to join. Feel free to bring a picnic and enjoy the Museum up gardens and picnic tables.
Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
Click here for list of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations in Idyllwild.
12-Step Meetings
2nd Quarter Calendar
April – June 2026
Delivery in Idyllwild
Bear Necessities Delivered
Groceries/Restaurant Food/Mail/Pharmacy/Etc.
Call or Text: (951) 512-0800
Available 7 Days a Week
Everyday: 11 am – 8 pm
Deliver to Idyllwild, Pine Cove & Mountain Center.
Organization List
If you’ve ever wondered how many organizations we have here in Idyllwild that would love to have you involved, or need to contact them? Click on the button below.
The New Bathrooms are OPEN!
Next door to the Idyllwild Gardens Nursery – Across the street from the Rustic Theatre.
Open Daily 9am – 5pm
Thank you to Shane & Ashley Stewart for donating the land for these bathrooms and to Stephanie Yost with ICC for her persistence with the County of Riverside to FINALLY get us public bathrooms. Thank you to the County of Riverside and Supervisor Manuel Perez for making this happen. It’s been a LONG time coming! Bathrooms will be locked at night.
Hotel Information
Upcoming Weekends
www.IdyLodging.com
Idyllwild Churches
All events, venues & programs run by
Idyllwild Community Center
Idyllwild TOWN HALL
25925 Cedar St
Chair Exercise Class
FREE
Town Hall
Monday 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Wednesday 11:30 am – 12:30pm
Friday 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Friday
Yoga for Seniors
Town Hall
10:45 am – 11:45 am
Fit after 50
Free Exercise Class
Town Hall
Tuesday 10:00am – 11:00am
Wednesday 10:00am – 11:00am
Thursday 10:00am – 11:00am
Mondays
Tai Chi Class
Free!
Town Hall
10:30 am – 11:30 am
Every Other Thursday
Starts Jan. 22
Town Hall
25925 Cedar Street
5:30 – 6:30
Every 3rd Thursday
Chess League
Community Center
54201 Ridgeview Dr.
FEEDING AMERICA
First Tuesday of each month.
Visitor Center – Now Open
Saturdays & Sundays 11am – 4pm
The Visitor Center is now open between the public bathrooms and Idyllwild Gardens on Saturdays & Sundays from 11am – 4 pm.
If you would like to volunteer to talk to visitors, help them find their way and point them in the direction of “A Good Time” please contact me at hello@GoodMorningIdyllwild.com.
Need To Know Stuff…
Idyllwild POST OFFICE HOURS:
Closed Christmas Day & New Years Day.
Open Monday – Friday
9 AM – 5 PM
Lobby open for mailbox access 7 am – 8 pm daily. Sometimes the timer doesn’t work right and the lobby is open later, so don’t hesitate to try the door.
Package pick-up only
Sat. 12 Noon – 1 PM
Mail goes off the hill once a day at 7:45 am Mon – Sat.
Mountain Center Post Office Hours:
Closed Christmas Day & New Years Day.
Open Monday – Friday
8:30 AM – 12 Noon & 1:00 pm – 4:45 pm
Closed Saturday & Sunday
Is The Dump Open Today?
Friday – Yes – 8 am – 4:30 pm
Saturday – Yes – 8 am – 4:30 pm
Sunday – Yes – 8 am – 4:30 pm
Monday – Yes – 8 am – 4:30 pm
Tuesday – Closed
Wednesday – Closed
Thursday – Yes – 8 am – 4:30 pm
Mayor Max & Deputy Meadow
We will be in our usual spot in front of Wooleys:
Friday 4:00 pm
Saturday and Sunday 2:00 pm
Monday, Tuesdays, Wednesdays – Off
Thursday 4:00 pm
Idyllwild Nature Center
Open Friday 9am – 4pm
Open Saturday 9am – 4pm
Open Sunday 9am – 4pm
Closed Monday
Closed Tuesday
Open Wednesdays 9am – 4pm
Open Thursday 9am – 4pm
Nature Center Banquet/Meeting Room available to Rent for your group activity.
951-659-3850
The Help Center is Open:
Monday 10-4
Tuesday 10-4
Wednesday 10-4
Thursday 10-4 (Donations accepted 10-1)
Friday 10-4 (Donations accepted 10-1)
Saturday 10-4 (Donations accepted 10-1)
Sunday 10-4
Call 951-659-3000 to schedule donations outside normal donation hours.
Bargin Barn
Idyllwild Community Church
Open Thursday, Friday, Saturday
Behind the Church at 54400 N. Circle
Donations accepted Thur/Fri/Sat 10:00 – 1:00
Idyllwild Laundry
Laundromat/Wash & Fold/Dry Cleaning
Open 8 am – 8pm EVERY DAY!
FREE Pickup & Deliver
951-659-2217
Idyllwild Shuttle
Idyllwild Shuttle Service – FREE
Monday – Palm Desert
Tuesday – Around Idyllwild
Wednesday – Hemet
Thursday – Around Idyllwild
Friday – Not in Service
Saturday – Not in Service
Sunday – Not in Service
Call for more details: 951-426-9688
The shuttle is available to rent to outside groups when available.
Idyllwild Community Center Facilities
Town Hall
25925 Cedar Street
Butterfield Amphitheater
54201 Ridgeview Dr.
Community Center
54201 Ridgeview Dr.
Next to Community Playground
Overlooking Butterfield Amphitheater
Available for Rentals
More info call: 951-659-2638
Idyllwild Pickleball Court
26375 Hwy. 243
Behind Skate Park
Open Daily 7 am – Dusk
First come-first-serve basis
More info call: 951-659-2638
Idyllwild Community Playground
Open Daily 7 am – Dusk
54195 Ridgeview Dr.
Idyllwild Dog Park
26375 Hwy. 243
Open Daily 7 am – Dusk
Idyllwild Skate Park
26375 Hwy. 243
Open Daily 7 am – Dusk
Skateboard & safety gear required.
Un-supervised – Ride at your own risk.
If you run across someone and they want to find out which restaurants are open but they don’t get Good Morning Idyllwild delivered to their inbox, they can always go directly to the website http://www.GoodMorningIdyllwild.com and find the Restaurant Chart. You don’t HAVE to sign up to see the most recent newsletter or see the restaurant chart. Just go to the website.
If you would like some business cards to hand out with Good Morning Idyllwild, please message me back at the bottom of your email and I will get you some to hand out personally or at your business.
We do our best to get days and times correct but sometimes we make mistakes.
Questions: Please contact us at P.O. Box 1171 Idyllwild, CA 92549
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