It was a family affair with parents pushing strollers with toddlers in tow, dogs enjoying all the smells and sights, music, classic cars, swimming and good food and drink.  According to Kevin Donnelly with the Sunrise Recreation and Park District the 3rd annual Citrus Heights Hot August Bites brought out over 1,400 people despite the 100-degree temperature.

The Rusch Park swimming pool’s seven lifeguards were kept busy keeping watch over 270 swimmers who took advantage of the three-hour free swim during the final day of operation for the year.

Young and old alike moved to the classic rock sound of the 8-Tracks.

The “Bites” part of the event offered something for everyone with cuisine from It’s Nacho Truck, Good Dog hot dogs, the Cowtown Creamery, Ohana Shave Ice and the famous Squeeze Inn Roseville.

Dozens of classic cars, presented by Autos for Alzheimer’s dotted the hills above the party area. New this year was a beer garden available for adults to relax and enjoy the good food, music and a brew.

Over 50 local vendors, City and community booths participated in the event. The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) reported only one minor injury; it was not heat related. Metro Fire and the Citrus Heights Police Department also mingled among participants during the afternoon.

This year’s sponsors helping to make the event a success were the City of Citrus Heights, Sunrise Recreation and Park District, Sunrise Marketplace, Republic Services, Consolidated Communications, Hot 103.5, and 101.9 The Wolf.

Plans for 2017 Hot August Bites will begin in January and promises to be even more tasty and entertaining.