Indio, CA - Indio International Tamale Festival

Next weekend take a trip to the 23rd annual Indio International Tamale Festival on December 6-7, 2014. Right off of Highway 111, in Old Town Indio, this festival is a favorite for many. Food Network-TV has ranked it in the top 10 "All-American Food Festivals" in the nation. No matter your taste in entertainment, this festival is sure to please. And best of all it is free to the public!

Wind through the streets of Miles, Towne, Smurr and Requa to see the entire splendor. The festival begins with the Parade at 10 am on Saturday, featuring boxing champ Randy Caballero as Grand Marshall, riding with Indio Mayor Lupe Ramos and also see Santa on an antique fire truck at the end. Also view some of the show cars that will be featured during the 2nd annual Car Show that accompanies the festival. Take a trip down Requa st to view and judge for yourself in seven different categories. Sunday afternoon, trophies will be awarded to the winners.

If you have a bottomless stomach, sign up for the annual tamale eating contest. The reigning champ since 2009, Charles G. Bill, Jr, is looking for challengers. You can sign up for that at any one of the stages that will have entertainment. Live music, dancing, singing, juggling, and other diverse performances will be held on one of the five stages available. Stay and watch the Best Tamale Contest where last year’s champion, Texifornia Tamale Co., will again be vying for the title. A carnival will be open until 10pm each night too, providing rides and games to play. Original art work, including painting, photography, sculpture, and textiles from at least 25 artists will be on display and for sale.  Guests can enjoy wine tasting in the wine lounge, and beer from Coachella Valley Brewery will also be available in an adjoining beer garden.

For more information, visit the Indio International Tamale Festival website. Pictures courtesy of  www.tamalefestival.net

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Ramona CA-Oktoberfest

Looking for a reason to get out for the weekend? Music, food, wine and of course, beer will be on tap for Ramona's third annual Oktoberfest on October 4th. Oktoberfest means "celebration of the harvest" and this year there will be plenty to celebrate. The event will feature traditional Bavarian accordion musicians, a beer garden, stocked by Stone Brewery of Escondido and a wine garden showcasing local Ramona wines. Traditional Bavarian food, such as brats and pretzels, will also be available.

Enjoy a long ride through the mountain pass on your way. There is plenty of fun for adults with horseshoes and more contests. And don’t miss the car show and more than 70 commercial and craft vendors that will be on there.

Military and children under 10 get in fir free and $10 admission for everyone else. For more information, visit their website at the Ramona Chamber.

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Sonoma County, CA: Battle of the Brews

Saturday, March 29th at the Grace Pavilion in the Sonoma County Fairgrounds marks the 18th year of the Battle of the Brews fundraiser held by the Active 20-30 club of Santa Rosa. This event has raised nearly $1,000,000 dollars, the proceeds of which have been distributed by our Youth Benevolent Fund to help change the lives of needy children.

The Battle of the Brews includes the People's Choice Main Event along with the return of two phenomenal additions to the lineup -- The Craft Cup, a judged specialty craft brew competition featuring a variety of premier micro-breweries from around the country, and The 'Wich Hunt, highlighting the most delicious sandwiches from local chefs. Plus, all proceeds go directly to helping children in need in Sonoma County.

This year the Battle of the Brews will continue the tradition of the Craft Cup, Sonoma County's largest and newest craft brew competition. Modeled after great beer and microbrew competitions from around the world the Craft Cup is bringing in over dozens of renowned breweries and brewmasters to compete head to head in a juried competition. Industry leading judges will set out to name the true winner of the Battle of the Brews, the Craft Cup Best of Show, along category favorites and winners.
The third annual 'Wich Hunt at Battle of the Brews is an iron-fisted sandwich brawl in which local chefs compete to construct the ultimate carbohydrate-protein-carbohydrate creation. This ain't no pansy cook-off.

From Dagwoods to sliders, artisan BLT's, heroes, hoagies, banh mi, and beyond, the only constraint is being able to fit into the eager maws of our judges and fans. Oh, and taste incredible, because there will be no awards just for showing up. We're looking for off-the-charts, taste-bud exploding, meat-tastic (or alternative proteins), brain-bending creations that really showcase local talent.
During the tasting event, we will also have the inaugural Craft Cup Raffle, live music by Pat Jordan, brewing demonstrations and much more. This exclusive event is open only to sponsors and 500 ticket holders.

Tickets to the 'Wich Hunt event are included in the Craft Cup tasting, and guests will be able to meet the competing chefs and taste their creations for themselves. Tickets for the Craft Cup are $95 and includes the Main Event.

Kicking off at 4pm, the Main Event will host over 50 drafts and food vendors fighting for your vote, while Cover Me Badd takes the main stage. Now in its 18th year, the People's Choice beer competition has become a local favorite celebrating beer, food, and music, all while raising money for at risk children in Sonoma County.

 Main Event tickets are available for $40 online (www.battleofthebrews.com). Check their websites for locations to also buy tickets.

Sonoma County Fairgrounds
Grace Pavillion
1350 Bennett Valley Rd
Santa Rosa, CA 95404
(www.battleofthebrews.com)

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Fort Bragg, CA: Mendocino Clinic's 15th Annual Crab & Wine Days & Beer Festival

Mendocino County’s rugged coastline has been home to generations of fishermen who harvest the bounties of our cold, clear Pacific Ocean—and this includes delicious Dungeness crab. And, every January, Mendocino County celebrates this delightful crustacean and locally grown and produced wines and beers with a Festival that delights foodies, oenophiles, and beer lovers alike!

The highlight of the crab season is Mendocino County’s 10-day Crab, Wine & Beer Festival. Enjoy gourmet, crab-themed dinners, family-style crab and cioppino feeds, crab fishing adventures, a Wine Competition showcasing local wines that pair well with crab, and the ever popular Crab Cake Cook-off featuring Mendocino County chefs. Events take place throughout the County, from the inland valleys to the coast.

Discover gourmet restaurants, unique inns, picturesque villages, friendly wineries, majestic redwoods, and rugged seaside. With dozens of events and activities, enjoy the countywide tradition of coming together as a community and indulging in delicious local seafood.

The signature event of the festival, Mendocino Clinic's 15th Annual Crab & Wine Days Cioppino Feed and Crab Cake Cook-off and Wine Competition, a fundraiser for Mendocino Coast Clinics, will be January 24 and 25, 2013. With Dungeness Crab, Mendocino Wines & Brews, online sales for both the Cioppino Dinner & the Crab Cake Cook-Off and Wine Tasting Competition will be acknowledged by email.

Tomatoes, onions, garlic & seasonings are blended during a long simmer. Hundreds of pounds of fresh Dungeness crab, caught off the North coast and donated by Noyo Harbor's Caito Fisheries fills the giant Crab pot! MCC Staff serves our Cioppino Dinner family-style with tossed salad, Cafe Beaujolais bread for dipping, dessert, locally roasted Thanksgiving Coffee, bibs and lots of napkins! North Coast Brewing Company beer & Mendocino County wines are available in the no-host Crabby Bar.

Cioppino Dinner
WHEN: Friday, January 24, 2014
SEATINGS: 4:30, 6:00 & 8:00 p.m.
VENUE: Historic Pentecost Hall ~ 822 Stewart Street, Fort Bragg
TICKETS: $35/adult; $15/kids 12-6; Under 6 - free

Thousands of succulent crab cakes and wines from America's greenest wine region are the focus of this one of a kind winning combination. Sample hand-crafted crab cakes prepared by Mendocino chefs while sipping Mendocino wines. Participants vie for the Professional Judges' Awards bestowed by a prestigious panel of media headed by Jimmy Im from acclaimed Conde Nast Traveler & Freda Moon from the New York Times. Vote your favorite for the coveted Peoples' Choice Awards and see how you match up.

Crab Cake Cook-Off & Wine Tasting Competition
WHEN: Saturday, January 25, 2014
TIME: Noon - 3:00 p.m.
VENUE: In the Big White Tent
at the Corner of Main & Spruce Streets, Fort Bragg
TICKETS: $85/adult - General Admission
$125/adult Circle of Claws Reserved Seating

For more information about the Mendocino County’s 10-day Crab, Wine & Beer Festival visit Visit Mendocino's website or by calling 1.866.466.3636. For more information on the Mendocino Clinic's 15th Annual Crab & Wine Days Cioppino Feed and Crab Cake Cook-off and Wine Competition, visit Mendocino Coast Clinics website events page.

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San Diego, CA: South Park Luminaria

Crowds of people filled Grape Street Square to watch South Park’s first holiday tree sculpture light up the night. But this wasn’t your typical green Christmas tree, because South Park is not your typical urban setting.

Todd Williams, the artist who designed the sculpture, has tree cred. He was involved in the San Diego Port District’s Urban Trees public art project, and he also created the unusual metal tree sculpture at Alchemy restaurant.

The idea behind South Park’s tree sculpture was to 1) celebrate the holidays without killing a tree, and 2) use recycled, reused materials to reflect an urban setting. That lovely tree was once a wood fence, if you can believe it. You can also see how it’s constructed with nuts and bolts, those “individual elements coming together” that make a community, Williams said.

You could witness those different elements as local business owners, families, renters and homeowners, school kids, the elderly, gay and straight celebrated what was called First Light, the official kickoff of Luminaria, South Park’s first month-long celebration of light. We’re not a cookie-cutter neighborhood, because we’re not cookie-cutter people. We come from different backgrounds, yet what binds us together is love and appreciation for our little town.

The PA system at First Light made it tough to hear the speeches and presentations, but if you missed it, you should know that the South Park Business Group that organized the Luminaria named the winners of the home decorating contest. The winning homes were 1707 Fern St. for best overall design; 1920 Fern St. for most original; and 1738 30th St. for best door. Be sure to drive by these locations to experience what our creative neighbors have done to add sparkle to South Park. You can also see the winners on Facebook.

KUSI News and ABC News came to First Light, as well as special guests interim Mayor Todd Gloria, Assemblywoman Toni Atkins, and Santa, of course.

Don’t forget — the Luminaria Walkabout is Saturday, Dec. 7, 6-10 p.m. More info on SouthParkScene.com


Photos and article courtesy of Bonnie Nicholls, the South Park Scribe, your expert on all things in South Park San Diego! Bonnie Nicholls is a freelance writer and blogger based in South Park, San Diego. She specializes in business success stories and web content. You can find her on Twitter.

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22nd Annual International Indio Tamale Festival, Indio, CA, Dec. 6, 7 & 8

The 22nd annual Indio International Tamale Festival will once again overtake Old Town Indio to kick off the holiday season in the Coachella Valley. Admission into the Festival is FREE, and family-friendly activities, arts and crafts booths, and live entertainment are geared for all ages and community interests. The Festival has been ranked as one of the top ten "All-American Food Festivals" in the nation by Food Network-TV. Guinness World Records awarded the Festival as having The World's Largest Tamale--over 1 foot in diameter and 40 feet in length, Dec. 4, 1999, and The World's Largest Tamale Festival--with 120,000 in attendance, Dec. 2-3, 2000. The traditional competition for best tamale recipe will be held, and there will also be a tamale eating contest. At least 125,000 people are expected to attend the two day celebration this year which begins with a parade on Saturday morning. Performances will be featured on four stages.

Indio Mayor Elaine Holmes said, “As a business owner, resident, and Mayor of the City of Indio, I’m always very excited to attend our Annual Tamale Festival. It’s an event where visitors from around the world can enjoy a one of a kind cultural experience only Indio can offer. This is a tradition we’re very proud of, where families, foodies, and anyone wanting to taste one of the many adventures Indio has to offer can come together for great food and fun. Admission is free, so join us for some of the best tamales you ever had, in traditional and new ways you never imagined.”

 New attractions this year include an Inaugural Car Show, an Art and Wine Garden, and Food Truck Alley. And, as always, in addition to the parade and live entertainment, there will be the Best Tamale Contest, a Tamale Eating Contest, Kiddieland, and Carnival Rides. Recipes from all over the southwest feature pumpkin with Jamaican rum tamale, bourbon pork tamale, chocolate cherry tamale, and hundreds more.

Complete information for the Tamale Festival can be found here.
Friday, December 6, 2013 -- 5:00pm – 10:00pm (Carnival only this day)
Saturday, December 7, 2013 – 10:00am – 6:00pm (Carnival open until 10:00pm)
Sunday, December 8, 2013 -- 10:00am – 6:00pm (Carnival open until 10:00pm)

The Festival is located at Old Town Indio between Highway 111 and Indio Boulevard; it occupies the streets of Miles, Towne, Smurr and Requa.

 Free parking is available at Riverside County’s Administration Building at the Larson Justice Center on the corner of Highway 111 and Oasis Street. Public parking is also available on various streets around downtown Indio. Free shuttle services are provided by Lin Lines to all festival visitors from the Larson Justice Center. SunLine Transit bus routes include stops close to the Festival grounds. For more parking or bus route information can be found here.

The Festival is produced by KevaWorks, Inc., in partnership with the City of Indio. Fantasy Springs Resort Casino will serve as the official presenting sponsor, as they have since 1999.

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Pacific Coast Fog Fest: Pacifica, CA

Now in its 28th year, The Pacific Coast Fog Fest was created to promote the City of Pacifica and to celebrate its marvelous coastal climate and community. This 2-day event brings in over 150 arts and crafts booths, a parade, a Fog Jog, a photo contest, a family fun fest, a marching band competition, 3 stages of live music and plenty of food and drink to satisfy any taste. Fog Fest is always held the last weekend of September, along 8 blocks of Palmetto Ave, one block away from the ocean where the sun, sand and surf await. This year it will be held on Saturday and Sunday, September 28th and 29th, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. both days.

There will be five celebrity grand marshals for the Saturday morning parade,“Surf’s Up!” The parade will feature surf professionals of the magnificent waves of Mavericks and the movie “Chasing Mavericks.” Floats, marching bands, Nestle’s Nesquik Bunny are just a few things to also expect. This year Macy’s is our proud sponsor of the parade. Who better to have but the parade experts themselves?


Other highlights will include, a sand castle contest where spectators can watch as the sculptures come alive and even vote on their favorite; live painting of surfboards at our new Artist Café which will be raffled off; and don’t forget to try the signature drink, the Fog Cutter, always a crowd pleaser.

The Fog Fest is proud to give back to the community organizations that participate and also to the, "Gift to Pacifica Fund." Fog Fest strives to lessen its environmental footprint by moving toward zero waste. In addition, free secured bicycle parking is available. Locals are encouraged to ride a bike in with family and friends and, the staff will take care of the rest! What's not to like? Visit their website or follow the Fog Fest on Facebook for details.

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The Pacific Coast Fog Fest
September 28 - 29, 2013
City of Pacifica, Along Palmetto Ave.
Between Shell Street and Montecito Street

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Sacramento, CA: Sacramento Comedy Festival’s Host Hotel, Vagabond Inn Executive

This September, Sacramento travelers and locals alike will celebrate comedic genius at the 3rd annual Sacramento Comedy Festival with 8-days of laughs at the Sacramento Comedy Spot. The festival features a mix of national stand-up comedians, improv groups, sketch comedy shows, live podcast recordings and a stand-up comedy competition.

The Sacramento Comedy Festival starts Friday Sept. 13 and continues through Saturday Sept. 21. The festival was created in 2011 by Brian Crall, comedian and owner of The Sacramento Comedy Spot, and has grown from a 4-day event to a full 8-day festival in just three years. This year, the stand-up competition has been added to give comics from all over the US the chance to compete for a $1000 grand prize.

For this year’s festival, Vagabond Inn Executive Sacramento-Old Town will serve as the host hotel and is offering special rates with mention of “Sacramento Comedy Festival” while making a reservation. The 108-room hotel, located just off I-5 and a half a black from Old Town Sacramento, is a 2013 Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence winner.

At the Vagabond Inn Executive, guests receive a free daily breakfast, free WiFi, a heated pool, spa, fitness room and comfortable, updated rooms. Also, for added convenience, there is a restaurant on the premises and a complimentary shuttle to Sacramento International Airport, train and bus stations and free parking for all guests.


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Vagabond Inn Executive Sacramento-Old Town
909 Third St.
Sacramento CA, 95814
Vagabond Inn
(916) 446-1481.

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Sausalito, CA: Sausalito Artists at Work

Labor Day Weekend meet more than 20 artists as they work in their San Francisco bay side studios at the free Sausalito Artists @ Work event. While many artists around the country open their doors to the public, this event is different, as you will have the opportunity to see art being made. Observing art as it happens builds a connection between the viewer, the artist, and art object; offering the viewer insight into the motivations for the work.

Explore inside the ICB Art Studios August 31st, September 1st and 2nd from 11am to 6pm for this yearly event. Visitors will have the opportunity to observe each artist's unique approach to the creative process. Visitors will discover artists working in a variety of media including; painting, sculpture, stained glass and digital arts.

"A growing number of my collectors purchase pieces they have observed in process. I think many
people like to meet the artist in person before making their purchase", says Sausalito Artist @ Work, Sue Averell. Most of the Sausalito Artists welcome visitors throughout the year by appointment. If your Labor Day Weekend plans are full, contact the studios to schedule a studio visit with your favorite artists.

For the 6th year in a row Sausalito Artists @ Work open their studios Labor Day Weekend. The ICB Art Studios are a 10 minute walk from the Sausalito Art Festival and a 15 minute drive from San Francisco. Stroll the halls of the ICB Art Studios and discover artists creating new and fascinating works of art.

The ICB Art Studios are home to almost 100 artists and offer visitors the opportunity to see inside the working studios of some of the Bay Area's most talented artists. Nestled close to the San Francisco Bay, toward the North end of Sausalito, is this landmark historic building, steeped in the area's ship building roots, and rekindled by the creative juices of a vibrant community of artists.


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Sausalito Artists @ Work
Labor Day Weekend 2013
The ICB Art Studios
480 Gate Five Road, Sausalito
Saturday, Sunday & Monday
August 31, September 1, 2
11am to 6pm

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Long Beach, CA: The Queen Mary Delicious Chili & Brewfest 9.1

1st Year Culinary and Craft Beer Festival Added to the Ship’s Labor Day Weekend Event Lineup

The Queen Mary is pleased to announce the inaugural Delicious Chili & Brewfest will be joining the exciting list of events planned on the ship and surrounding grounds over the Labor Day holiday weekend. The first-year festival will take place on Sunday, Sept. 1 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Queen Mary’s beautiful Waterfront Events Park and celebrate the best in culinary and local breweries.

Delicious Chili & Brewfest will present various local food and craft beer vendors and an extreme chili cook-off featuring some of the best Southern California chefs. Chefs interested in participating in the chili cook-off can obtain more information and submit to compete in the event online here. Delicious will also offer live entertainment and a family friendly Kid’s Country where the little ones can keep busy with obstacle courses, a bounce house, games, face painting and much more.

General admission tickets for Delicious Chili & Brewfest start at just $10. VIP experiences are available beginning at $39 and include early VIP admission, a souvenir mug, five tasting tickets and access to a VIP lounge.

Delicious Chili & Brewfest is just one of the many special events planned at the Queen Mary over the Labor Day holiday weekend. The festivities begin with the Art Deco Festival, celebrating the opulence of “The Great Gatsby” era, Aug. 30 – Sept. 2. Shoreline Jam music festival follows with Pepper, Tomorrow’s Bad Seeds and more artists performing on Saturday, Aug. 31. The Delicious Chili & Brewfest will then premier on Sun., Sept. 1. More information and tickets to all of the holiday events and activities at the Queen Mary can be found by visiting The Queen Mary online.


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The Queen Mary
1126 Queens Highway
Long Beach, CA 90802
Information: (877) 342-0738
Hotel Reservations: (877) 342-0742
QUEENMARY.COM

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San Diego, CA: 5th San Diego Spirits Festival August 24-25

San Diego Spirits Festival and San Diego Cocktail Week highlight the cocktail and culinary community and the talented bartenders and chefs who are shaking up San Diego’s vibrant scene. Its all about Cocktails, Culinary and Culture set on San Diego Bay! San Diego Spirits Festival is all about Lifestyle, make San Diego your Lifestyle Destination and Join for Year 5!

SHAKE it UP at the end of summer in San Diego, August 24-25, with a fresh and booming cocktail and culinary scene at the San Diego Spirits Festival! The preeminent West Coast COCKTAIL CULINARY and CULTURAL event where the world of CRAFT spirits, high profile liquors and fine cuisine unite overlooking a sun-drenched San Diego Bay and make a huge splash! You know it's bound to be a party when MÖTLEY CRÜE front man VINCE NEIL showcases his Tatuado Vodka at the San Diego Spirits Festival with a spectacular launch.

This one of a kind weekend, held at the spacious Port Pavilion, brings together hundreds of distinct liquors and gourmet morsels in a festive and fun loving environment. Sample any of the spirits you come across, whetting your whistle with tasty tequilas, raucous rums, magnetic moonshines, vivacious vodkas, genteel gins, wild whiskeys, marvelous mezcals, and more.

Need to fill up a bit? Delicious cuisine is on hand for your culinary needs as well. During the day, witness cocktail battles, pitting expert bartenders against one another, along with chef/bartender battles, burlesque shows, samba dancers and even a craft beer section.

For information or to get your all Inclusive tickets with UNLIMITED TASTINGS visit San Diego Spirits Festival.


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San Diego Spirits Festival
Contact Liz Edwards
5580 La Jolla Blvd, #436 La Jolla CA 92037
Venue - San Diego Spirits Festival
Port Pavilion On Broadway Pier
1000 N. Harbor Dr.
San Diego, CA 92101
858-551-1605

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Camarillo, CA: Casa Pacifica Wine and Food Festival

The Casa Pacifica Angels are very excited to present the 20th Anniversary of the Casa Pacifica Angels Wine and Food Festival hosted by the Zarley and Van Huisen families! Twenty years of wonderful history in bringing great food, wines, brews, and entertainment to Ventura County for all to enjoy. Twenty years of expanding from just a few restaurants and wineries to featuring exhibitors from all over California. Twenty years of growing to now offer the largest Silent Auction in Ventura County. Twenty years of providing significant support for vital programs and services of Casa Pacifica Centers for Children and Families through the event’s proceeds, essentially providing for our community’s most vulnerable children – abused, neglected, and at-risk youth – and their families. Sunday, June 2nd, from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm at California State University Channel Islands will be a special day, marking and celebrating the invaluable support of the community for Casa Pacifica in a festive, joyful, and unmatched fun-filled atmosphere!

The Angels are also looking forward to holding the 3rd Annual Yummies Culinary Competition, which will seek out the top chef creations among Festival exhibitors. The Yummies Culinary Competition is an action-packed culinary showdown involving Ventura County’s top restaurants and chefs. Celebrity emcee, television and movie actor, Oded Fehr will welcome top restaurants and chefs to fire up their stations and compete for first, second, or third place in one of two categories: Savory and Sweet.

Yummies winners will be determined by a panel of Celebrity Culinary Judges comprised of television and print media personalities, food editors and columnists based on which chef’s dish they feel is the yummiest. The select panel of celebrity culinary judges includes; Executive Chef and Food & Beverage Director at the Playboy Mansion, William S. Bloxsom-Carter; Chef-Host of “Dinner & A Movie,” Claud Mann; and two-time Food Network’s Cupcake Wars Champion and owner of Sweet Arleen’s Cupcakes, Arleen Scavone. Each of these judges, along with the others, will use their expert tasting skills to find the best entry in each category, judged on flavor, presentation, innovation, and quality. Yummies winners will earn bragging rights and receive a prize package sponsored by Gold Coast Broadcasting, LLC, Le Creuset, Cumulus Media, National Association for Catering and Events, 805 with Tom & Sandy, VC Buzz, and Yelp.com. For more information about the Yummies competition and past winners, please visit the Wine & Food Festival website at http://www.cpwineandfoodfestival.com.

Entertainment Sponsor, The Patio Restaurant at The Players Casino on Johnson Drive has ensured that festival-goers will once again enjoy a day full of upbeat, dance. Live entertainment includes Boogie Knights, a comedic 1970s disco cover band who will provide a lively backdrop for wining and dining guests. The exclusive V.I.P. Lounge presented by Wells Fargo will feature its own musical fun offered by the band Sound Effect. Bruce Barrios will assist the captivating entertainers as the Master of Ceremonies and Disc Jockey. Guests will also be surprised by a special musical guest!

General Admission and V.I.P tickets can be purchased online at http://www.cpwineandfoodfestival.com! General Admission tickets are on sale for $125 until sold out. Food and beverages are included in the price of admission. V.I.P tickets are available for $200 each, offering Festival-goers early admission at 12:00 noon. V.I.P. ticket holders will receive V.I.P parking, and exclusive access to the V.I.P. Lounge presented by Wells Fargo. In addition to exclusive entertainment, the Lounge will feature the Anheuser Busch Belgium Beer Garden, Plated Events by Chef Jason, Malibu Family Wines and more! V.I.P. guests will enter through the beautiful and historic CSUCI bell tower where their day will start off being catered to by the world class Mastro’s Steakhouse.

It’s not too late to sign up as an exhibitor or to connect your name or business to this "Can't Miss" event by taking advantage of some great sponsorship opportunities! For sponsorship information, contact Casa Pacifica Event Specialist, Kristin Palos at (805) 366-4014, kpalos(at)casapacifica(dot)org or visit the Festival sponsor page at http://www.cpwineandfoodfestival.com.

Casa Pacifica encourages all Festival-goers to participate responsibly. Roundtrip reservations are available thru the Roadrunner Safe Ride Program by calling (805) 389-8196, or visiting http://www.rrshuttle.com/casapacificawinefestival.

About Casa Pacifica Centers for Children & Families:
Casa Pacifica Centers for Children and Families is a crisis-care and residential treatment facility for abused, neglected, or at-risk children in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties. The agency is the largest non-profit provider of children’s mental health services in both counties and along with its campus-based programs administers a number of community-based programs which are designed with the intent to strengthen families and keep children in their homes. For more information about Casa Pacifica visit its website http://www.casapacifica.org or call the Development Department at (805) 445-7800.


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Buellton, CA: Buellton Brew Fest

The 2nd Annual Buellton Brew Fest kicks off Santa Ynez Valley’s Craft Beer Week on Saturday, May 11 at River View Park. Tickets are now available for $35 advance purchase and $45 from May 1-May 11, the ticket includes a commemorative tasting glass, lunch, live music from Burning James and The Funky Flames, and unlimited tastings. The Festival sold out in pre-sale last year during its inaugural year.

The Buellton Brew Fest’s festivities will feature over 25 breweries breweries, including local Craft Breweries Figueroa Mountain, Firestone, and Tapit; and regional favorites Stone Brewing, Ninkasi, and Trumer Pils showcasing the best in craft beer. Local restaurant Avant will provide lunch to all attendees, with additional food and non-alcoholic beverages available for purchase.

The Buellton Brew Fest is the first Craft Beer Festival in the Santa Ynez Valley, and a popular event in an area known for its wine but gaining major attention for Craft Beer. With awards from the Great American Beer Festival on its walls, Firestone Walker Brewing, and Figueroa Mountain Brewing call the Santa Ynez Valley home. Tapit, with its Gold Award for their IPA from the Great American Beer Festival is right up the road in San Luis Obispo; it’s clear that the Central Coast of California is solidifying its place among the top regions for Craft Beer.

Holly Holliday, with the Buellton Brew Fest states, “After a phenomenal Inaugural year, it’s awesome to see the excitement continue to build in this area for beer and the art of craft beer. We look to continue to bring the best of the best to the Santa Ynez Valley, in order to inspire future beers to come. This event is beer at its best, we’re proud of that.”

More information can be found on the web at, http://www.Buelltonbrewfest.com, and tickets can be purchased online at Eventbrite or through the Buellton Chamber of Commerce.


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Palm Desert, CA: Food & Wine Festival

Visitors of the Palm Desert area will enjoy a entertaining weekend as the fabulous three days of the Palm Desert Food and Wine Festival rocks the Coachella Valley later this month. Celebrated under the Big White Tent on Larkspur between El Paseo and Shadow Mountain in sundrenched Palm Desert, the culinary and fine wine event is a Foodie’s dream.

Getting underway on Friday, March 23 the “A Taste of Italy” gourmet luncheon will be the first of multiple events celebrating the glories of gourmet cuisine and the finest winemakers around the globe. The superb four course luncheon will feature champagne from Caposaldo and premium wines by such luminaries as Feudo Maccari and Tenuta. Master of ceremonies Jeff Hocker will oversee the festivities with entertainment provided by Allison Adams Tucker's Italia Quartet.

Brad Schmett, a local real estate agent who frequents the weekend long festival, recently spoke about what is one of his personal ‘fave events’ of the season. “The Palm Desert Food and Wine Festival always brings in the most interesting people from all over the country. It never seems like spring until we see that Big White Tent go up on El Paseo. The three day festival is nonstop fun for all of us and we especially enjoy showing off our beautiful valley to all the new visitors who appreciate the level of life we have to offer.”

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Indeed, the list of participating wineries and esteemed gourmet chefs reads like a Who's Who of the finest in the food and elite beverage industries. In between sampling offerings from the best restaurants in the Coachella Valley expect to enjoy educational food and cooking demonstrations, book signings, gourmet cooking tips from expert chefs, and much more, all set out on multiple stages with something to enchant even the most discerning connoisseur.

Tickets are sold on a day by day basis and you must be 21 to attend the event. For more information on the Palm Desert Food and Wine Festival visit http://www.palmdesertfoodandwine.com.

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Pacifica, CA: Pacific Coast Fog Fest

Born in 1986 and now in its 27th year, The Pacific Coast Fog Fest was created to promote the City of Pacifica & to celebrate its marvelous coastal climate & community. This 2-day event brings in over 100 arts; crafts booths, a parade, a Fog Jog, a photo contest, a family fun area, a marching band competition, 3 stages of live music, tons of food and drink to satisfy any taste and has been known to attract up to 40,000 festival goers each day. Fog Fest has free admission and is always held the last weekend of September, along 8 blocks of Palmetto Ave, one block away from the ocean where the sun, sand and surf await.

This year Pacific Coast Fog Fest is proud to announce actor/comedian, Rob Schneider, as Saturday morning parade's Grand Marshall. Also, the Pacifica will be celebrating a historical milestone; 30 years of Family Fun Fest, which promises extra surprises!

The Family Fun Fest was developed 3 years prior to the creation of the Fog Fest. The two merged together, creating a long lasting partnership. The Family Fun Fest has also laid down the foundation for which many festivals and events today have modeled their family fun zones after.

The Fog Fest is proud to give back to its community organizations that participate and also to the, "Gift to Pacifica Fund." Fog Fest also strives to lessen our environmental footprint by moving towards zero waste. This year they will provide bike valet securing. So, locals are encouraged to ride a bike in, with family & friends and, the staff will take care of the rest! What's not to like? Visit their website or follow the Fog Fest on Facebook for details.

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The Pacific Coast Fog Fest
September 29 - 30, 2012
City of Pacifica, Along Palmetto Ave.
Between Shell Street and Montecito Street

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Sausalito, CA: Sausalito Artists at Work

Visit more than thirty artists at work in their beautiful, loft style studios; all under one roof. Purchase art from the local, talented, award winning artists. Why is this particular event different? You will have the opportunity to observe each artists unique approach to the creative process as it happens.

Sausalito Artists is a large group of talented, local artists. All of the studios are located in the historic Industrial Center Building. Nestled close to the San Francisco Bay, toward the North end of Sausalito, The Industrial Center building is steeped in the area’s ship building roots, and rekindled by the creative juices of a vibrant community of artists.

The 60th Annual Sausalito Art Festival is held September 1,2 & 3, 2012 over Labor Day weekend.

Sausalito Artists @ Work
Labor Day Weekend 2012
The ICB Art Studios
480 Gate Five Road, Sausalito
Saturday, Sunday & Monday
September 1, 2 & 3
11am to 6pm

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Indio, CA: Indio International Tamale Festival

If you like spicy food, passionate dancing, and friendly people consider taking in the annual Indio International Tamale Festival on your next trip to Palm Springs and the California desert resort communities.

This past season when I was visiting the Coachella Valley I took my young bride for an evening of food and salsa dancing at the most recent version of the Tamale Festival. This is a fantastic enjoyable event that is held in December each year. Not only does the festival kick off the holiday season, it also brings an entire community together which include the 'snowbirds who come down to the desert to escape the bitter cold.

Started in 1992, the Tamale Festival is a celebration of the rich history and the spicy legacy of the tamale. It combines a host of activities that are presented to go along with a variety of food options centered around the tamale. The popularity of the Indio International Tamale Festival continues to rise year after year and has gained national attention. Just recently the Food Network-TV broadcasted to over 70 million viewers a daily picture of the festival. It even went so far as to rank Indio's International Tamale Festival in the Top 10 of "All American Food Festivals" in the nation. Other recognition includes setting two Guinness World Records - one for the World's largest Tamale and the other for the World's largest tamale festival with 120,000 in attendance back in 2000.

We arrived by car and found the grounds easy to get to as both parking and shuttle service are free, which provides a great help and excellent access to the festival. The gathering took place in downtown Indio, between Highway 111 and Indio Blvd and filled up the streets of Miles, Towne, Smurr & Requa. The weather hovered around the mid to high 70's in the day and then dropped into the 40's when the evening arrived. The festivities always take place in the first weekend of December and begin at 10 a.m. in the morning until 6 p.m.on both Saturday and Sunday.

Along with a number of delicious tamale dishes, the festival also provides shopping at a large selection of vendors who display the Mexican heritage along with the modern items. If shopping wasn't your thing, then the activities are sure to be enjoyed as I did. There are carnival rides and games that allow for prizes to be won. There is a kid's petting zoo that can even bring the child out of the adult with a diverse number of animals to come in contact with. I got my exercise on the Rock Climbing and Inflatable Bounces exhibits that are sure to bring a smile as well as a few gasps.

When it came time to settle in and enjoy the sights, then it was time to take in the parade as well as the all too popular Tamale Eating Contest along with the famous Tamale Judging contest. Festival fans also have the option to relax and watch the diverse entertainment the festival provides that includes traditional Mexican Folklorico Dancing as well as live music on four different stages; the Fiesta Stage, The Amigo Stage, The Mariachi Stage, and the Community Stage.

All - in - all the Tamale Festival is a great way to spend some time on your next trip to Palm Springs and the California desert resort cities.

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Indio Tamale Festival
Every December

City of Indio - Special Events Office
Phone: (760) 391-4175
tamfest@indio.org
http://www.tamalefestival.net/

For discounts and deals on hotels, restaurants, and attractions in Palm Springs, CA, visit http://www.palmspringsvacationdiscounts.com/.

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Sausalito, CA: 60th Annual Sausalito Art Festival, September 1-3, 2012

Nearly 300 award-winning artists exhibiting and selling more than 25,000 works of art from around the San Francisco Bay, and around the country will flock to the waterfront village of Sausalito, CA, Labor Day weekend, September 1, 2 and 3, for the 60th annual Sausalito Art Festival.

One of the oldest, most prestigious and most looked-forward-to Art Festivals in the country -- for 60 years the Sausalito Art Festival has set the standard for quality, variety, innovation and sheer scope of artists, as well as for a celebrated entertainment line-up, gourmet food and beverages and special exhibitions. The Festival’s ambiance electrifies the village of Sausalito for three days every year, transforming it into a “Camelot” of art and community.

Exhibiting artists have been selected by a rigorous jury process and will show a range of work including painting, sculpture, drawing, ceramics, glass, fiber and fashion, wood, photography, mixed media and more. The 60th annual Sausalito Art Festival will be held in Marinship Park adjacent to the Ferry landing, Friday and Saturday, September 1 and 2, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Monday, September 3, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Last year, more than 30,000 people attended the Festival, which is considered by artists, art collectors, Festival fans and the media as a must-attend event. Sausalito has long been regarded as one of the world’s great artist’s communities, and the Festival and community have co-evolved for 60 years, bringing world-wide attention, top artists, and international visitors to the area that is also known for its excellent restaurants, shopping and access to breathtaking natural beauty and outdoor activities.

The Festival is produced by the non-profit Sausalito Art Festival Foundation, and proceeds from the Festival support the local arts community in the form of student scholarships, grants to other non-profit arts organizations and community service programs. All food and beverage concessions at the Festival are operated by local non-profits that benefit from the proceeds of their sales at the Festival. Annual student scholarships are generated by the opening night gala silent auction, which raises more than $15,000 annually for education support.

Opening Night Gala and Benefit Friday, August 31

The 2012 Festival will kick-off with an opening night gala and benefit the night before the Festival opens to the public. Artists and guests will preview the art, enjoy cocktails, dinner, dancing. Funds raised from the Gala will support a new pilot program, Artists Teaching Art. Tickets for the gala benefit are priced $250 each. Table sponsorships are also available.

About the Sausalito Art Festival

Over one million visitors from throughout the world have attended the Sausalito Art Festival since its inaugural event in 1952. Sausalito has been the focal point for artists for close to 200 years. Weekend painters first arrived by sailboat from San Francisco in the early 1800's to capture scenes of tall ships and nature against the majestic backdrop of the bay.

Sausalito was a major shipbuilding site during World War II. Workers came by the thousands to build the famed Liberty Ships on Sausalito's northern waterfront. At the end of the war, the idle waterfront became a magnet for poets, writers, artists, and film makers from throughout the world.

The rustic waterfront and growing houseboat colony all helped create a popular haven for a bustling artists' community. The growing camaraderie among nativeborn and newcomer artists created the foundation for the Festival. Sausalito artists staged their first festival on Shell Beach, September 6, 1952, in conjunction with a salmon festival and regatta. Shell Beach is now the site of the world famous Spinnaker Restaurant.

The Sausalito Art Festival is one of the first juried fine art festivals in the nation and in the 1970's, cash awards were instituted.

Its current location at Marinship Park, next to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers - Bay Model Visitor Center, was built and paid for by the Art Festival, the Rotary Club and several other non-profits and volunteers with donated money and labor in 1988 as a permanent home for the Festival. The new site allowed for direct ferry service,a shuttle system, more artists, entertainers, and higher attendance.

Under the Chamber's stewardship, the Festival has seen its greatest growth, gained national recognition as the #1 Outdoor Fine Art Festival in America, and has earned an international standing for excellence in the arts. It is now considered one of the "best" and "most prestigious" fine art festivals in the United States by both artists and collectors worldwide.

The Festival is a nonprofit fund raising Event that has benefited every civic and nonprofit organization in Sausalito with over 1,000 volunteers and over 270 of the nation's top juried Artists. It is produced by a dedicated group of artists and community volunteers. It The Sausalito continues its long-standing mission of supporting the arts and community nonprofit organizations through grant programs, artist awards, scholarships, and the Sausalito Chamber of Commerce Community Service Programs. Through this support, the Festival makes a significant investment in the future of its community, totaling over $500,000 in recent years.

Getting to the 60th Annual Sausalito Art Festival

There are many transportation options to the Sausalito Art Festival, including the Blue & Gold Fleet, which offers a combined ferry/Festival ticket package (http://www.blueandgoldfleet.com) and transports Festival-goers from Pier 41 in San Francisco directly to the Festival pier. Golden Gate Transit, will add extra ferries for the Festival, and sails to downtown Sausalito. Free shuttle buses will transport ferry passengers to and from the Festival. Golden Gate Transit’s bus service is also available; contact 415.455.2000 or http://www.goldengate.org for ferry and bus information. Additionally, free valet bicycle parking will be provided.For those traveling to the Festival by car, take Highway 101 North or South to the Sausalito/Marin City exit and follow the signs to the Sausalito Art Festival.

Tickets and information

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Tickets to the Sausalito Art Festival are $25 for general admission; $15 for seniors 62+; $5 for children ages 6 – 12; free for children under 6. Tickets are available for purchase beginning in July via www.sausalitoartfestival.org. Please note: Pets are not allowed into the Sausalito Art Festival.

For more information about the Festival, its artists and performers, the Sausalito Art Festival Foundation and much more, visit the Sausalito Art Festival website at: http://www.sausalitoartfestival.org.

To book hotel accommodations, contact: Melissa Land at (877) 294-3918, or bookit@goelevationtravel.com.

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Sacramento, CA: Launch 2012, Music & Arts Festival

LAUNCH Events today announced their 2012 LAUNCH Festival, an annual celebration of music, art, fashion, design and architecture July 23rd – 28th in the heart of Sacramento.

Since its inception in 2009, LAUNCH has grown from a single day event highlighting talent from the local community to a six-day celebration of local, regional and internationally acclaimed artists, designers and creatives.

Hosted at multiple venues throughout midtown and downtown Sacramento,LAUNCH is curated by some of the brightest artists in and around Sacramento to not only showcase their peers, but also introduce the community to a new generation of talent across multiple artistic platforms.

LAUNCH 2012 kicks off Monday, July 23rd when Model Citizens NYC outfits Hot Italian restaurant for an exclusive designer showcase, and concludes Saturday, July 28th when the LAUNCH Music Festival takes over Cesar Chavez Park featuring performances by Chromeo, DJ Shadow, Grouplove , !!!, Sea of Bees and more.

Visit http://www.launchsacramento.com for a full schedule of events, artists and ticket prices.

Monday, July 23rd: Model Citizens NYC @ Hot Italian Restaurant
Pop-up artisan retail from local and national designers.
6PM – Invite only event (open to public throughout the week)

Tuesday, July 24th: Capital Indie Collective @ Bows & Arrows
Silent movies with live scores played by local musicians.
7PM - $8 pre-sale/$10 door

Tuesday, July 24th: Le Twist @ Dive Bar
DNTEL of Postal Service headlines this event featuring classy and eclectic music from local DJ’s.
9PM – No cover charge

Wednesday, July 25th: Launch Midtown Sacramento @ MARRS Building
Architects and designers create visionary installations with performances by local musicians.
5PM – No cover charge

Wednesday, July 25th: Concerts 4 Charity presents King Tuff @ Harlow’s
8PM - $8 pre-sale/$10 door

Thursday, July 26th: Cut&Paste @ Ace of Spades
Digital design battle set to live music.
7PM - $15 pre-sale/$17 door

Friday, July 26th: Envision Talks @ California Museum
Inspiring talks from Llisa Demtrios and other creatives.
1PM - $20 pre-sale/$25 door

Friday, July 27th: Fashion Showcase @ The Landmark Building
Internationally acclaimed designers take charge of the runway with captivating creations.
7PM - $50 pre-sale/$65 door

Saturday, July 28th: LAUNCH 2O12 Festival @ Cesar Chavez Park
Live performances by Chromeo, Grouplove, !!!, DJ Shadow and more.
11AM to 11PM - $35 pre-sale/$45 door

To book hotel accommodations, contact: Melissa Land at (877) 294-3918, or bookit@goelevationtravel.com.

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Camarillo, CA: Casa Pacifica Angel's Wine & Food Festival

The Yummies competition is an action-packed culinary showdown involving Ventura County’s top restaurants and chefs, and will be held at the 19th Annual Casa Pacifica Angel’s Wine & Food Festival on Sunday, June 3, 2012 from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM.

The Yummies culinary competition showcases each chef’s entry to be judged based on flavor, presentation, innovation and quality. Entries will be tasted by a panel of celebrity judges comprised of television and print media personalities, food and wine editors, and food and wine columnists based on which chef’s dish they feel is the “Yummiest.”

The panel of celebrity judges includes Top Chef Season five and Season eight participant, Fabio Viviani, and runner-up on Season two of MasterChef, Adrien Nieto. Viviani is also a talented chef and owner of Café Firenze in Moorpark, California and Firenze Osteria in Toluca Lake, California. Nieto is also the founder of …Cruda…, a new food company that offers foods created from local, sustainable, seasonal, and organic sources.

Celebrity chefs will be complemented by Emcee Oded Fehr, television & movie celebrity, who is best known for his portrayal of the mysterious warrior, Ardeth Bay, in Universal’s “The Mummy” and “The Mummy Returns” and his recurring role on USA’s “Covert Affairs.” The panel of judges also includes Angela Pettera, dining editor for 805 Living Magazine; Chef Daniel Atkin; Chef Robin M. Atkin; Lisa McKinnon—Ventura County Star’s weekly Café Society columnist; Lynne Andujar—co-founder and editor-in-chief of 805 Living Magazine’s Taste section; radio show hosts Tom Hilton and Sandy Seekin; and trained chef and writer Brittany Bassett. Yummie Co-chairs Fran Elson and Cheri Elson will be overseeing the competition and invite all guests to join them at the Yummies pavilion to watch and enjoy the judging.

All-inclusive general admission tickets to the Angels Wine & Food Festival can be purchased online at http://www.cpwineandfoodfestival.com for $100 each until June 1, 2012. General Admission tickets will be $125 at the door. For access to the exclusive VIP Lounge presented by Wells Fargo, $200 VIP tickets can be purchased online. VIP tickets include early admission to the event at noon, allowing guests an extra hour to enjoy the festivities, as well as VIP valet parking which offers easier access into the event.

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A shuttle service will also be available for guests to travel to and from their homes safely. Make a reservation for the Safe Ride Program today by calling (805) 389-8196. Prices start as low as $15 per person each way, or book a room at the Courtyard Marriott, Camarillo, and ride the free shuttle to and from the Festival. Room reservations can be made at the Courtyard Marriott by calling (805) 388-1020.

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