Flower Fields now in full bloom

On a hillside overlooking the ocean in Carlsbad, a sea of millions of bright flowers, from deep red to orange and pink, has become an international venue bringing together visitors from around the world.

The iconic Flower Fields in Carlsbad with 50-acres of giant tecolote ranunculus draws more than 165,000 visitors during its blooming season from March to mid-May. But the irony is that sometimes local folks miss the chance to take in the attraction.

But its not too late. The Flower Fields is at its peak and in full bloom.

In the coming weeks until the venue wraps up its season on May 13, a variety of outdoor concerts, arts and crafts fairs, shows and other events are being put on for visitors.

Here’s a glimpse at the lineup of upcoming weekend events, which are generally free with admission:

• Arts & Crafts Fair with music and artisans displaying and demonstrating from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. with music April 21-22.
• Blues music performance by John January and Linda Berry from 12:30 to 5 p.m. April 21.
• Blues Pro All Star Jam features Chickenbone Slim & the Biscuits and Sharifah with Sue Palmer & Her Motel Swing Orchestra from noon to 5 p.m. April 22.
• Arts & Crafts Fair with music and artisans displaying and demonstrating from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. April 28-29.
• The Sweetwater Creek Band performs a mix of folk music such as Irish, Scottish, Cajun and Swedish, with traditional bluegrass and gospel tunes noon to 5 p.m. April 28. The musicians play fiddle, Irish bouzouki, mandolin, accordion, guitar, banjo and baroque recorders.
• Tea in the Garden from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 6 with array of tea, freshly baked scones and an assortment of tea sandwiches in a floral setting. Tickets: $50.
• Cuban salsa performances and lessons led by enRuédaMe más all day May 12. EnRuédaMe más is a group of Cuban salsa dancers based out of North County. The group will perform Ruedas de Casino — Cuban salsa in a circle, social dancing one on one and salsa suelta and will invite the audiences to learn the steps and join in the dance.
• The annual bonsai show and sale will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. May 12 and 13.
• A Mother’s Day celebration May 13 will feature colorful dancing from Rancho Buena Vista High School’s Ballet Folklorico group 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.. Visitors can make their own mixed bouquets for $5.

The Flower Fields is open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. through May 13 at 5704 Paseo Del Norte.
Admission costs $16; $14 for seniors older than 60; $8 for children 3-10. Season passes are available. Wagon rides cost $5; $3 for ages 3-10.

For more information, visit theflowerfields.com.