Off in the distance I could hear voices of little children playing. As I opened my eyes, I looked up at the palm trees gently swaying as they moved in the slight tropical breeze. I heard the sound of palms leaves and in the background, “Brown Eyed Girl.” As I listened to the lyrics, I thought to myself, “What a wonderful way to spend a Sunday.”

Soothing sounds, sun and live music are all part of the Arden Hills Resort Club & Spa’s “Summer Sundays,” which runs Sundays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. until the Sunday of Labor Day weekend. This weekend, the relaxing event included a live band playing for guests, a barbecue and a poolside bar.

Entrance to the Arden Hills Resort Club & Spa (Image by: David Alvarez)

I met with Jamie Ireland, Resort Communications Manager, to ask her a few questions about the event. Ireland indicated that Summer Sundays is in its fourth year and is open to members and to the public for a fee. Ireland has been with the Arden Hills Resort Club & Spa for a year now and her enthusiasm and pride for the club shows.

“Summer Sundays allows member and guest families a chance to get to know each other and enjoy a great day full of many amenities,” said Ireland.

She also described why Summer Sundays have become so popular.

“It’s a great place for everyone to get together. It’s a family oriented event and it comes with the use of our pools, a bar, complimentary snacks and a live band or DJ. It creates great atmosphere for all our guests.”

As guests made their way to the children’s pool, they passed by The Remnantz, who performed songs from the 60’s, 70’s, 80’s and beyond. They played songs such as “No Matter What” by Badfinger, the Beatles’ "Oh! Darling” and “Got My Mojo Working," popularized by Muddy Waters.

The Remnantz by the Arden Hills Resort & Spa pool (Image by: David Alvarez)

The Remnantz repertoire was quite impressive, mixing their song selection to suit the occasion. They played classic rock, blues, old soul, pop and funk. The Remnantz include Carey Catanzariti on guitar; Tim Cornell on drums; Randy Catanzariti, also on guitar, as well as congas; Greg Jones on keyboards and Thomas Engberg on bass. Most of the band helped out on vocals.

Summer Sundays (Image by: David Alvarez)

Arden Hills Resort Club & Spa offers many amenities to its members. One of their main principles is sound nutrition and they make every effort to promote their wellness philosophy. During this summer Sunday, a barbecue was part of the event. Succulent ribs, deliciously prepared chicken and an assortment of side dishes were available as part of their barbecue meal.

The Arden Hills culinary staff created a delicious assortment of dishes with health and good nutrition at the heart of the meal.

Summer Sundays are a great way to spend a day with family and friends. Arden Hills Resort & Spa provides a great setting for a day of fun, music and sun. The club is open to everyone and you can join as a member or get a daily resort pass that gives you full access to the wellness resort and the many amenities it has to offer.

I was told that advance reservations are not required, just show up on Sundays with your swimsuit and enjoy a great day to wind down before the start of another work week.

Summer Sundays (Image by: David Alvarez)

Arden Hills offers three membership levels, each offering different amenities. Guests of Arden Hills Resort Club & Spa can join as a Resort Guest. Signature and Premier Memberships are also available and offer more access to additional benefits and activities.

To find out more information about the Arden Hills Resort Club & Spa, call 916-482-6111 or log on to their website. Their Calendar of Events has something for every member of the family.