Spring is a wonderful time to explore those regions of Northern California you've never been to before but always wanted to visit. If you've been searching for a reason to visit the historic Gold Rush town of Mariposa, then we've got great news for you. Every year, this little town holds a gigantic butterfly festival and it's an event that you definitely don't want to miss out on. The festival is a vibrant celebration of the town's namesake, and it's a great reason to visit this tight-knit community. Check it out:

It's only fitting that a town named Mariposa (Spanish for the word 'butterfly') would throw an epic butterfly festival every year. Filled with all kinds of fun, entertainment, and plenty of butterflies, it's a festival you'll definitely want to make plans to see this year.

The Mariposa Butterfly Festival always takes place during the first weekend in May, so this year it will be held May 3-5, 2019. This fantastic event has become an awesome way for visitors to get to know this little community and all the treasures that can be found here.

When early missionaries first came to this area, they were awestruck by the thousands upon thousands of butterflies that flocked all around them. The butterflies were just passing through, but Mariposa still celebrates them by hosting this delightful event every year.

The Butterfly Festival is one of Mariposa County's largest events. It's comprised of a parade, live entertainment, family attractions, street vendors, and so much more.

However, the highlight of the festival is the release of 5,000 butterflies into the air. The sight of these colorful creatures flocking all around you is bound to leave you feeling inspired.

The festival is much more than just one massive celebration. It's also an opportunity to educate the public about butterflies and why they're so important. Local schools are provided with "butterfly pavilions" about a month before the festival, in which they can safely raise caterpillars into beautiful butterflies to be released during the festival.

Everybody is welcome to attend the Mariposa Butterfly Festival and experience the wonders that it has to offer for themselves. It will take place right in the heart of downtown Mariposa, where Highways 140 and 49 meet. For more info, check out their website here.

Have you attended this vibrant butterfly festival before? This is an event that every Northern Californian should check out at some point. Afterward, follow up your time at the festival with a trip to this Magical Butterfly House In Northern California.