Although Spring is less pronounced here in Southern California than it is in much of the country – particularly in Boston or New York where I lived prior to moving to the SCV – there still are tell-tale signs that it’s springtime, signs that are fairly specific to Santa Clarita.

1. Senses returns to Old Town Newhall (every third Thursday, 7 p.m. to  11 p.m.). Senses officially roared back March 20 with a Roaring 20s-themed event featuring live music and much more. April 17, enjoy the Rockin’ Rodeo just in time to get you ready to Cowboy Up.

2. The Cowboys Invade. The Cowboy Festival returns to Melody Ranch, bringing with it lots of other activities in Santa Clarita that celebrate the Old West and the rich history of the Santa Clarita Valley. Most events take place April 24-27. A complete listing can be found at cowboyfestival.org, where tickets can also be purchased. Some events are free.

3. Bikinis and Surfboard Sightings. In the Spring, I begin to notice more cars with surfboards cruising through Santa Clarita often on their way to Ventura and, especially on the weekends, bathing suits begin to show up as standard gear for many on their way to nearby beaches or lakes.

4. Dodger Day. Baseball excitement is another sure sign of Spring, as I always notice more baseball jerseys being worn, games being played on local fields, and Santa Clarita Dodger Day Fun. This year, Santa Clarita Dodger Day is April 26.

5. Bikes, Bikes and More Bikes. Even though I see lots of people biking and jogging on SCV’s numerous trails all year round, in the Spring, the number of cyclists seems to peak. I’ve seen many more already. So, drivers: Be kind, share the road and don’t text or talk while driving.

In May, too, there’s Hit the Trail, a community bike ride and rally May 10; Bike to Work Day on May 15; and the Amgen Tour of California cruises through Santa Clarita on May 16 and 17.

6. Blustery Days and Allergies. This is the not-so-fun side of Spring in the Santa Clarita Valley. The winds kick up, often out of nowhere, and allergies kick in. It’s definitely a sure sign of Spring.

What’s your favorite thing about Spring in the Santa Clarita Valley? What Spring events do you enjoy? Whatever it is, get out and get it done.

Jennifer Fischer is co-founder of the SCV Film Festival, a mom of two, an independent filmmaker and owner of Think Ten Media Group, whose Generation Arts division offers programs for SCV youth. She writes about her parenting journey on her blog, The Good Long Road. Her commentary is published Saturdays on SCVNews.com.