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Posted June 2006
Quick Weather Guide:
Summer in Lodi, May through August
Located in the lush Central Valley, summer is hot, hot, hot. And though
the weather may be perfect for the thousands of acres of fruit and vegetable
crops that make their way into produce aisles around the country, you're
likely to wilt and wither if you don't dress appropriately. So think
cool.
Lodi tends to be popular most of the year due to the temperate
climate, so you'll likely need to make reservations for top hotels,
restaurants and especially popular Wine Country events in advance.
When booking your hotel, often the innkeepers or hotel managers
can make reservations or secure tickets to Wine Country events
for you.
What to pack
Days tend to heat up quickly, so despite cool mornings and evenings
(bring a light jacket), you'll be stripped down to shirtsleeves
and shorts by 10am. Bright light, airy, breathable clothing like
linen or cotton, and plenty of anti-perspirant. A hat is a very
good idea, as well, when the summer sun begins to beat down on
your head. Wear cool, comfortable shoes—sandals and open-toed
shoes are completely appropriate unless you'll be walking around
the vineyards, in which case you'll want to wear something a
little more rugged. Jeans are acceptable almost anywhere in this
rural farming community, though it’s never a bad idea to have
a nice skirt or slacks for evening dinners or fancier events.
Dining Style
As in most of California, there's rarely an occasion you'll need
a tie or sport jacket. Even the most sophisticated restaurants
usually welcome diners dressed in pretty much anything appropriate
for a casual office environment: slacks and a sweater, a comfortable
skirt, pants, whatever—though for really upscale dining its best
to avoid jeans if possible. The People You'll Meet
Though much of the region is agricultural, you'll find a fairly
cosmopolitan group of folks in Lodi, due to its proximity to
the state's capitol, Sacramento and Lodi's increasing desire
to be taken seriously as an emerging wine region. The recently
completed Lodi Wine and Visitor's Center < http://www.visitlodi.com/winecountry.asp> is
a great first place to stop and get the lay of the land. There
are plenty of opportunities, however, to get back to nature—and
meet local wildlife enthusiasts who flock to Lodi to see local
cranes and other creates—at the local preserves.
Typical temperatures
Temperatures soar into the 90s and 100s throughout the summer,
though inland things can cool down significantly in the morning
and evening. Make sure, if you taste, to stay hydrated with plenty
of water, and keep yourself cool as you walk to and from tasting
rooms.
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