February 19-February 25, 2025 🍇📅

Vol. 1, Issue 12: Victoria Gardens: From Citrus Orchards to Community Hub

The Early Years

Victoria Gardens is located in Rancho Cucamonga, California, on land once known for its thriving citrus and grape orchards. The area, part of the Cucamonga Valley, played a key role in the region’s agricultural industry in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Over time, however, the land transitioned from farming to suburban development.

The Birth of Victoria Gardens

In the early 2000s, Rancho Cucamonga sought to revitalize its commercial sector and create a vibrant space for shopping, dining, and entertainment. The idea for Victoria Gardens emerged, with construction starting in the early 2000s and the center officially opening in 2004. Named after nearby Victoria Avenue, the development was designed as an open-air shopping center with pedestrian-friendly walkways, green spaces, and a modern mix of shops and venues.

Key Features and Attractions

Victoria Gardens has become a central destination for both locals and visitors. Key features include:

• Victoria Gardens Cultural Center: This venue hosts art exhibitions, performances, and community events, enriching the local arts scene.

• Lewis Family Playhouse: A small theater that offers a variety of performances, from Broadway-style shows to local productions.

• Retail and Dining: The center boasts luxury stores, national brands, and a wide range of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants.

The Community Impact

More than just a shopping center, Victoria Gardens was designed to be a community hub. Its layout encourages visitors to relax, stroll, and enjoy the public spaces. Over time, it has become a popular gathering place and contributed significantly to Rancho Cucamonga's transformation from a suburban town to a dynamic urban center.

Heard it through the grapevine!

February 19–25, 2025 Events

Feb 19

🛍️ The Gathering: Morning Farmers & Craft Market | 🕒 10:00 am–2:30 pm | 📍 South Main Street, Victoria Gardens

Shop fresh produce, handmade goods, and artisan products at this weekly outdoor market.

📖 Family Storytime | 🕒 11:30 am–12:00 pm | 📍 Archibald Library, 7368 Archibald Avenue, Rancho Cucamonga

Ages birth to 12 and their caregivers are welcome. Content is geared for ages 2 to 8. This is a walk-in storytime; tickets will be distributed 30 minutes prior to the start. Space is limited!

🔬 Discovery Club | 🕒 4:00 pm–4:30 pm | 📍 Archibald Library, 7368 Archibald Avenue, Rancho Cucamonga

For ages 6 to 12. Caregivers must remain in the children's area during the program. This is a walk-in program; tickets will be distributed 30 minutes prior to the start. Space is limited!

🏃 Victoria Gardens Run Club | 🕒 6:30 pm | 📍 Victoria Gardens 

Meet at the Lululemon store in Victoria Gardens and connect with runners of all levels. 

❓ Trivia Night | 🕒 7:00–9:00 pm | 📍 Haven City Market

Test your knowledge on a range of topics in this fun and competitive trivia event.

Feb 20

📖 Hooray for Pre-K | 🕒 10:30 am–11:00 am | 📍 Biane Library, 12505 Cultural Center Drive, Rancho Cucamonga

A special storytime just for preschoolers to promote early literacy.

📖 Family Storytime | 🕒 11:30 am–12:00 pm | 📍 Biane Library, 12505 Cultural Center Drive, Rancho Cucamonga

Same as the Archibald Library event, this session offers fun for ages birth to 12 and their caregivers.

🔬 Discovery Club | 🕒 4:00 pm–4:30 pm | 📍 Biane Library, 12505 Cultural Center Drive, Rancho Cucamonga

Hands-on science fun for kids ages 6 to 12. Walk-in event with limited space.

📚 Books & Banter Bookclub | 🕒 6:00 pm–7:00 pm | 📍 Paul A. Biane Library, 12505 Cultural Center Drive, Rancho Cucamonga

This month the Books & Banter Bookclub is reading The Things We Leave Unfinished by Rebecca Yarros. Meeting both in person at the Paul A. Biane Library and online via Zoom.

Feb 21

📖 Senior Bookclub | 🕒 10:00 am–12:00 pm | 📍 James L. Brulte Senior Center, 11200 Base Line Rd., Rancho Cucamonga

This month's theme is: Historical Romance and/or Non-violent True Crime. Meeting virtually and in person at the James L. Brulte Senior Center.

📖 Toddler Storytime | 🕒 11:30 am–12:00 pm | 📍 Archibald Library, 7368 Archibald Avenue, Rancho Cucamonga

A fun walk-in storytime for toddlers. Tickets will be distributed 30 minutes prior to the start. Space is limited!

🎨 City Love Paint Night | 🕒 5:00–7:00 pm | 📍 The Stackz Co.

Enjoy a painting experience with friends—Purple Easel buys the first round! Tickets: $40.

Suggested age 13+, no BYOB, beverages available for purchase.

💃 Seniors Love Boat Dance | 🕒 6:00 pm–8:30 pm | 📍 James L. Brulte Senior Center, 11200 Base Line Rd., Rancho Cucamonga

Enjoy delicious food, desserts, drinks, lively dancing, and exciting raffle prizes—all aboard this unforgettable night. 🎟 Tickets: $15 per person (Ages 50+)

🎶 Live Music: Allen Ray Music | 🕒 7:00–9:00 pm | 📍 Haven City Market

Enjoy a live performance from Allen Ray while grabbing food and drinks.

Feb 22

🛍 Heritage Farmers Market | 🕒 9:00 am–2:00 pm | 📍 10570 Foothill Blvd, Rancho Cucamonga

Stop by and shop fresh fruits, veggies, delicious baked goods, and unique handmade crafts at Rancho Cucamonga’s favorite Saturday market!

🎶 Live Music: Jimmy Becker | 🕒 6:00–9:00 pm | 📍 Haven City Market

Catch an evening of live music and good vibes.

Feb 23

🛍 Vintage X Market | 🕒 12:00–8:00 pm | 📍 Haven City Market

Discover unique finds, vintage treasures, and handcrafted items at this pop-up market.

Feb 24

⚽ Empire Strykers Rancho Cucamonga Day | 🕒 Doors Open 10:00 am, Kickoff 11:30 am | 📍 Toyota Arena, 4000 Ontario Center, Ontario, CA

Watch professional indoor soccer with tickets provided by the City of Rancho Cucamonga.

Must be 18+ to redeem tickets before 11:59 PM on February 23.

Business Spotlights

✂️ 2% Chop Barbershop – A modern, high-end barbershop offering precision haircuts and grooming services. Known for its stylish and laid-back atmosphere, it’s perfect for those looking to keep their look sharp and trendy.

🍦 Afters Ice Cream – A must-visit dessert spot serving up decadent ice cream with unique flavors. They’re especially famous for their milky buns and exclusive, one-of-a-kind creations that will satisfy any sweet tooth.

🧋 Boba Ave 8090 – A cozy bubble tea café that offers a wide variety of delicious teas and toppings. Perfect for anyone who loves creative drinks made with fresh ingredients.

For more businesses, visit Victoria Gardens.

Feel free to check us out on Instagram too!