Kingsburg, California

Kingsburg’s early inhabitants were Swedish-American, giving the community the nickname "Little Sweden". Today, most of the structures in the commercial district reflect Swedish architecture. This small town is the headquarters of Sun-Maid Growers of California, a producer of raisins and other dried fruits. Kingsburg Swedish Festival, the town’s largest event, is held annually during the third weekend in May. Activities include a Swedish pancake breakfast, a parade and the coronation of the Swedish Festival Queen.   Within an hour and half drive from town, visitors can enjoy scenic attractions like Huntington Lake, Shaver Lake, or experience the giant trees in Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks. Kingsburg began as a railroad town, its site established by the Central Pacific Railroad when it completed the Valley Line in 1873. In the early 1870s, Swedish natives settled in a railroad town then called "Kings River Switch". The name of the town was eventually shortened to Kingsburg in 1908.