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"Controversial E-Bike Rules, Solo Carpool Lane Access Revoked, & Exciting Food/Entertainment Events in Carlsbad!"
"Controversial E-Bike Rules, Solo Carpool Lane Access Revoked, & Exciting Food/Entertainment Events in Carlsbad!"
"Controversial E-Bike Rules, Solo Carpool Lane Access Revoked, & Exciting Food/Entertainment Events in Carlsbad!"
Exciting Food, Music, and Local News in Carlsbad! 🍔🎵 New events, safety rules for e-bikes, and more! Find out now! 🔥📰
Kintaro Oku
Dec 8, 2025
Hey there from The Village Buzz! ❄️🐝
North County is actually cold right now — crisp mornings, chilly ocean breezes, and those stunning winter sunsets that feel extra sharp and golden against the cool coastal air. Carlsbad is giving full-on cozy vibes, and we’re here for it.
Winter has officially settled in, bringing sweater weather, hot drinks, comfort food, and neighborhoods lighting up with festive sparkle. ✨☕🌊
There’s so much happening around town, and we can’t wait to share it with you:
🍴 Local foodie favorites perfect for warming up
Got ideas for what you’d love to see in the newsletter?
Bundle up out there — and buzz back anytime. We’d love to hear from you!
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Quote Of The Day |
“Winter is the time for comfort, for good food and warmth, for the touch of a friendly hand and for a talk beside the fire: It is the time for home.” —Edith Sitwell |
📆 Upcoming Food / Food‑Truck / Music Events in Carlsbad |
Le Papagayo: Live Music |
🗓 Date: Monday, December 8, 2025 - John Bennett 🗓 Date: Wednesday, December 10, 2025 - Raynaldo 🗓 Date: Thursday, December 11, 2025 - Jimmy Patton 🗓 Date: Friday, December 12, 2025 - Keefer and Rob 🗓 Date: Saturday, December 13, 2025 - Steve Orr 🗓 Date: Sunday, December 14, 2025 - Michael Richardson 🗓 Date: Monday, December 15, 2025 - Maxwell the Great ⏰ Time: Varies from 6 PM - 9 PM Sunday - Thursday | 7 PM - 10 PM Friday - Saturday 📍 Location: 1002 North Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas, CA 92024 🔎 Details: Le Papagayo features unplugged live music every night, ranging across genres like blues, folk, jazz, rock, island groove, Motown, and samba. The setting is relaxed yet vibrant—think art-gallery vibe, indoor and outdoor seating, and a cozy atmosphere where diners can enjoy music along with their meals. 🍽 Menus: Dinner | Drinks |
New Village Arts: 88 Keys, 88 Laughs with Sean Bostrom |
📅 Date: Wednesday, December 9, 2025 🎟️ Admission: $20 Online & $25 at the Door* | *All orders subject to a flat $3 processing fee. | Reserve Tickets 📄 Details: From Liszt to Gershwin, Mozart to Eubie Blake, get ready for dazzling performances, unexpected laughs, and a bold, modern spin on classical music that’s as thrilling as it is fun! Join us on December 9 at 7 p.m. for an unforgettable night of brilliance, humor, and showmanship with Sean Bostrom. ✨ |
Weekly State Street Farmers' Market |
🗓 Date: Wednesday, December 10, 2025 ⏰ Time: 2:30 PM ‑ 7 PM 📍 Location: 2907 State St, Carlsbad, CA 92008 🔎 Details: The weekly State Street Farmers’ Market showcases local farmers, artisans, and food vendors offering fresh produce, handmade goods, and a community atmosphere where neighbors come together to shop, eat, and connect. |
The Surf Club Oceanside: Gone Blonde |
📅 Date: Friday, December 12, 2025 🕒 Time: 6 PM - 9 PM 📍 Location: The Surf Club Oceanside 211 Mission Ave., Oceanside, CA 92054 📄 Details: Gone Blonde is your favorite party band, playing R&B, pop, rock, and funk, outside on the rooftop. Come get your groove on! |
Baba Coffeehouse: Live Jazz at Nido d'Amore |
📅 Date: Every Friday Night 🕒 Time: 6 PM - 9 PM 🎟️ Admission: FREE 📄 Details: Baba Coffee's lounge, nido d’amore, hosts live jazz by @thesotosix every Friday night along with guest chefs. Have dinner with "James Beard Award" recipient and Winner of Chopped 2020, Celebrity Chef, @elizathechef | Follow @thesotosix on Instagram |
Scroll Down For MORE Events... |
🗞️ Local Carlsbad News 👀 |
The city of Carlsbad has set new rules for e-bike riders, including a minimum age requirement of 12 years old. Riders under 18 must wear a helmet and are prohibited from using e-bikes in parks, trails, and open space areas. The rules aim to promote safety and reduce conflicts between e-bike riders and pedestrians in the community. Riders are encouraged to follow traffic laws and be respectful of others while using e-bikes in Carlsbad. Read More... |
A Carlsbad startup is gearing up to mass produce solar-powered electric vehicles. The company, Aptera Motors, has created a three-wheeled car that can go up to 1,000 miles on a single charge. The vehicles are also equipped with solar panels on the roof to help extend the range. Aptera Motors aims to have their vehicles ready for the market by the end of 2021 and hopes to bring sustainable transportation options to consumers. Read More... |
California EV drivers will no longer have solo carpool lane access after the Clean Air Vehicle decal program ended. The program allowed electric vehicles to drive in carpool lanes without any passengers. The changes are causing frustration and concerns for those who purchased electric vehicles specifically for this benefit. Some drivers are even considered selling their EVs due to the loss of the perk. The program's end is a result of the state hitting the cap of available decals, leaving many electric vehicle owners disappointed and looking for alternative solutions. Read More... |
A new Mexican restaurant called Nómada is set to open in Carlsbad, bringing regional flavors and a community gathering space to the area. The restaurant aims to offer traditional Mexican cuisine with a modern twist, featuring dishes like ceviche, tacos, and flautas. The space will also include a bar area serving craft cocktails and a patio for outdoor dining. The owners hope to create a welcoming atmosphere that celebrates Mexican culture and brings people together through food and community. Read More... |
Carlsbad Cravings |
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🍔 Cosmos Burger 🥤 |
890 Palomar Airport Rd, Carlsbad, CA 92011 760-607-9227
🍔 Carlsbad’s No-Frills, Flavor-Packed Burger Haven
Sometimes, all you really want is a classic, juicy burger — no gimmicks, no pretense, just crave-worthy comfort food done right.
That’s where Cosmos Burger in Carlsbad shines. This unassuming, fast-casual gem has become a go-to for locals who know that when it comes to burgers, flavor is everything — and Cosmos absolutely delivers.
Located along El Camino Real, Cosmos Burger doesn’t need to rely on flashy decor or Instagrammable plating to impress. Instead, the charm is in its simplicity and consistency.
The moment you walk in, the smell of sizzling patties, toasted buns, and freshly fried fries wraps around you like a warm hug. The service is quick, the prices are fair, and the food? Unforgettable.
Let’s talk burgers.
Each one is made to order with fresh, never-frozen beef that’s seasoned just right, seared to a flavorful crust, and stacked with classic fixings.
The Cosmos Classic is a fan favorite — a perfectly balanced bite of lettuce, tomato, onion, gooey cheese, and their tangy signature sauce on a soft toasted bun.
Want to kick it up a notch?
Try the Bacon BBQ Cheeseburger, dripping with smoky sauce and layered with crispy bacon, or the Jalapeño Burger, which delivers just the right amount of heat.
But Cosmos isn’t just about burgers — their sides are just as addictive.
The shoestring fries are thin, crispy, and golden, perfect for dipping. The onion rings are thick-cut and crunchy, and the pickles are big, bold, and bursting with brine.
Round it all out with a hand-spun milkshake — rich, creamy, and just sweet enough to feel indulgent.
What makes Cosmos special is its ability to keep things simple without sacrificing quality. No unnecessary frills, no over-the-top marketing — just real, honest food that hits the spot every single time. It’s the kind of place where you walk in for a quick bite and end up making it your go-to burger joint.
✨ Insider Tip: Order extra sauce on the side — it’s their secret weapon, and once you try it, you’ll want it on everything.
Whether you’re grabbing lunch on the go, treating the family, or refueling after a day at the beach, Cosmos Burger is the kind of local gem that deserves a permanent place in your rotation.
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👀 Trail Volunteer Day Spotlight 🔦 |
Lend a Hand on Carlsbad’s Trails 🖐 |
With more visitors enjoying the outdoors this time of year, our local trails could use a little extra TLC.
If you're looking for a meaningful way to spend time outside this season, join us for our next volunteer workday on Wednesday, Dec. 10, at the Peninsula Trail.
Volunteers will support light maintenance along the upper section of the trail, including smoothing uneven areas, adding small amounts of gravel where water tends to pool, and helping with other routine upkeep.
Trail Volunteer DayWednesday, Dec. 10
Before You Go:
Thank you to all the dedicated volunteers who help care for Carlsbad’s 67 miles of trails. Your efforts keep our outdoor spaces safe, beautiful, and enjoyable for the entire community year-round. |
Carlsbad Cravings |
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🌮 Casa de Bandini 🍹 |
1901 Calle Barcelona, Carlsbad, CA 92009 760-634-3443
🔥 Bold Flavors & Old-World Charm in Every BiteStep into Casa de Bandini and step into a fiesta of flavor, tradition, and vibrant atmosphere — right in the heart of Carlsbad’s The Forum shopping district.
This beloved Mexican restaurant isn’t just a place to eat tacos — it’s a full sensory experience that combines rich, authentic recipes with a setting that feels like a sunny courtyard in old Mexico.
From the colorful talavera tile to the warm string lights and lush greenery, the ambiance is inviting and festive, making it a perfect stop for lunch with friends, family dinners, or a margarita-fueled evening under the stars.
But let’s talk about the tacos — because that’s where Casa de Bandini really shines.
You’ll find classics like carnitas, grilled chicken, and carne asada tacos, each prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients and a flavor-packed punch.
Their fish tacos, made with lightly battered white fish, shredded cabbage, creamy sauce, and a squeeze of lime, are a local legend.
Pair your tacos with house-made chips, a fresh guacamole starter, and one of their famous Cadillac margaritas, and you’ve got a meal worth savoring.
🎯 What to try: The Fish Tacos Baja Style, Chile Relleno & Taco combo plate, or the sizzling fajita tacos.
Whether you're a taco traditionalist or someone who likes to explore the full flavor spectrum of Mexican cuisine, Casa de Bandini delivers a memorable experience with every plate.
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To outsiders, California’s coast looks like endless sunshine and surf, but beach town residents know the real story is far more complex.
Fog and dim skies linger most days, with chilly, damp air making sweaters a staple, even in summer.
Salt-heavy breezes cause cars and metal fixtures to rust quickly, while constant moisture means battling mildew and mold at home.
Locals grow used to frustrating parking shortages and an influx of tourists that can transform peaceful neighborhoods into crowded hotspots.
Nature’s power also brings eroding cliffs, seismic risks, and strict conservation rules that affect daily living.
Real estate prices are sky-high, making beach life a costly dream for many, while everyday chores mean accepting sand, wildlife encounters, and ocean winds.
Yet seeing dolphins or gray whales glide past at sunrise remains a little daily magic—reminding coastal Californians why they stay, despite the hidden costs. Read More... |
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The Village Buzz just launched a brand-new 16-week health series called "Decades of Health — Carlsbad Edition."
Each week, we’ll dive into the surprising truths of thriving through your 30s, 40s, 50s, and 60s — and share local Carlsbad tips to help you stay strong, sharp, and energized at every age.
From metabolism slowdowns and hormonal curveballs to heart health, brainpower, balance, and purpose — this series is your insider’s guide to feeling your best in every decade of life. 🏄♀️💪🌊
Month 3 — Thriving in Your 50s
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🩺 What They Don’t Tell You When You Hit 50 ❤️🩹 |
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Longevity Is a Lifestyle, Not a Lucky Break
By the time you reach 50, one truth is clear: health isn’t just about luck or genetics — it’s about the habits you practice daily.
Preventive screenings expand at this stage — colonoscopies, heart health checks, and bone density scans become routine recommendations.
But instead of seeing them as scary, think of them as tools for freedom — giving you peace of mind to enjoy your best years ahead.
Carlsbad locals are especially lucky — this city is a wellness playground.
The year-round sunshine calls you outdoors.
Farmers' markets offer produce that fuels longevity.
Community events and volunteer groups keep you socially connected, which studies show is just as important for health as exercise.
Carlsbad Tip: Book those preventive checkups at Scripps or Palomar Health, then reward yourself with a beachside coffee or a sunset walk along the seawall.
Prevention doesn’t mean restriction — it means liberation.
Bottom line: Your 50s can be a launchpad for a longer, healthier life. With Carlsbad’s built-in wellness vibe, longevity is a lifestyle you get to choose.
👀 Next Week - Age 60: Balance Becomes a Superpower 👀
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📆 More Upcoming Events in Carlsbad |
Annual Holiday Window Decorating Contest Public Voting |
🗓 Date: December 3-16, 2025 ⏰ Time: N/A 📍 Location: Every Corner of Downtown Carlsbad 🎟️ Admission: None 🔎 Details: Community members play a key role by voting for their favorite display online. The public is invited to stroll the Village and cast their votes on the website from December 3–16. Winners announced on December 17.
Five Award Categories:
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New Village Arts: Brassy Broads Comedy Show |
🗓 Date: Monday, December 8, 2025 ⏰ Time: 7 PM 📍 Location: White Family Next Stage 2787 State St, Carlsbad, CA 92008 🎟️ Admission: $15 Online & $20 at the Door* | *All orders subject to a flat $3 processing fee. 🔎 Details: What’s funny about getting older? Plenty! The Brassy Broads are a sharp, hilarious troupe of women of a “certain age” who find the humor in everyday life—with a playful, slightly saucy twist. In just over a year, they’ve performed across San Diego County, delighting audiences of all ages. The Brassy Broads Comedy Show includes Sue Shirley, Ashley Gardner, Carolyn Ayres, Gina Manning, and Connie Terwilliger with Music Director Tim Daugherty.
Proceeds from the show benefit the James Shirey Foundation, created in memory of James Richard Shirey Jr., who passed away at 14 from complications of CAH. Founded by Brassy Broads member and James’ mother, Sue Shirey, the foundation honors his legacy by supporting charitable community initiatives. |
New Village Arts: Improv Comedy Show by Patrick McInnis |
🗓 Date: Friday, December 12, 2025 ⏰ Time: 7:45 PM 📍 Location: White Family Next Stage 2787 State St, Carlsbad, CA 92008 🎟️ Admission: $15 tickets*, $10 Kids (18 and under)* | *All orders subject to a flat $3 processing fee | Reserve Tickets 🔎 Details: Hosted by Patrick McInnis, this upcoming improv comedy show is a must-see—mixing the quick-fire charm of “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” with the playful edge of “SNL.” Get ready for a night full of sharp wit, laugh-out-loud sketches, and spontaneous moments that will keep you cracking up from start to finish. |
The Beacon La Costa: Holiday Celebration at The Beacon |
🗓 Date: Saturday, December 13, 2025 ⏰ Time: 11 AM - 2 PM 📍 Location: The Beacon La Costa 7720-7790 El Camino Real, Carlsbad, CA 92009 🎟️ Admission: FREE 🔎 Details: Kick off the holiday season with festive fun at The Beacon’s Holiday Celebration! 🎄✨ This free, family-friendly event welcomes guests of all ages to soak in the magic of the season. Get ready for a day filled with cheerful activities and photo-worthy holiday moments:
🎅 Santa Meet & Greet
📸 Festive Photo Backdrop
📬 Letters to Santa Station
🎨 Ornament Decorating Station
☕🍪 Hot Cocoa & Cookie Stand
🍪✨ Holiday Cookie Decorating
🎶 Live Music Bring your family, invite your friends, and join us for a magical day at The Beacon.
We can’t wait to celebrate the season with you! |
🌤️ Weather Forecast 🌧 |
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