With summer officially in full swing and a long weekend ahead of us, Shop Local Novato has some great ideas for how to spend your holiday weekend! From festive family time to solo relaxation, there’s no shortage of fun activities here in Novato.
1. Get your garden into shape
Sometimes all you really need in life is to get your hands dirty in the garden. If you’ve been meaning to get some plants in the ground, but haven’t found the time, now’s your chance! You can find high-quality soils and fruit trees at Sloat Garden Center on Novato Boulevard. Green Point Nursery on Olive Avenue is another local gem, where you can find drought & deer-resistant plants along with expert gardening advice. Armstrong Garden Centers has everything you need to plant a collection of perennials, including petunias and marigolds. While you’re there, check out a patio set — complete with an umbrella — so you have somewhere to lounge and admire all your hard work.
2. Barbecue with family
Kick off the long weekend with a barbecue at home! Although large gatherings are not possible this year, you can still celebrate the good old fashioned way with those who live in your household. At Pini Ace Hardware, you’ll find many affordable gas and pellet grills so you can enjoy traditional 4th of July fare. Head over to Harvest Market on San Marin Drive for hot dogs and hamburger patties galore. The Downtown Novato Community Farmers Market, every Tuesday from 4pm-8pm, is a great place to pick up fruit salad makings, too!
3. Order in
If you’d prefer to be catered to on your long, luxurious weekend, local catering service Classic Culinaire Catering Service makes oven-ready, pre-made meals you can pick up on Tuesdays and Fridays! Pick a protein, side, and veggie of your choice for a balanced and delicious meal, without the hassle of making it yourself. You can quickly turn this into a romantic date night by ordering a bouquet of summer roses — for pick up or delivery — from local florist San Marin Flowers.
4. Enjoy some rest & relaxation
For those looking to decompress, swing by Beauty Heroes on Grant Avenue to pick up some salt scrub and lotion for an at-home spa experience. Or head over to Copperfield’s Books for all the best new (and old) books, so you can sprawl out on the hammock and enjoy the peace and quiet. If visual art is more your style, the Marin Museum of Contemporary Art is offering a virtual tour of their Summer National Exhibit “Left Coast.” Join Executive Director Nancy Rehkopf as she walks viewers through gorgeous images of beach sunsets and other west coast splendor created by 46 artists from all around the country. You won’t want to miss it!
However you spend the long weekend, don’t forget to show some love to your favorite independent merchants. Stay safe, and have a wonderful 4th!
