36th Annual Poway Coors Rodeo

BBQ Sept 20, Trail Ride Sept 21, Rodeo Sept 26-28

Everyone is invited to come and enjoy RODEO...America’s Original Extreme Sport! The 36th Annual 2008 Poway Coors Rodeo is in town and runs for three days, from Sept. 26 to Sept. 28.

The Poway Coors Rodeo will once again host their annual barbeque and auction on Saturday, Sept 20, and will include a mouth-watering BBQ including ribs or chicken, a live and silent auction, music and casino entertainment including Black Jack, Poker, Craps and Roulette. Auction items consist of signed sports and recording artist memorabilia, Brighton jewelry as well as other artisan handcrafted items, golf accessories, handmade quilt, personal services and much more! There will also be a Classic Car Show for all the car enthusiasts out there. And, once again the Poway Rodeo is proud to support the Poway Women's Health Connection-Breast Cancer Boutique funded by Palomar/Pomerado Health Foundation.

For tickets or information visit www.powayrodeo.com.

3rd Annual Beach’n 101 Cruise

Sept. 7, Sunday, 9am-3pm

Southern California’s premier cruise along Historic Highway 101 takes place through six classic California beach communities; Oceanside, Carlsbad, Encinitas, Solana Beach, Del Mar and La Jolla. Classic cars will cruise inches from the sand and under Oceanside’s venerable pier.

It is a day to see and be seen with hundreds of great cars and thousands of spectators. The best viewing spots other than a vehicle will be restaurants fronting on the 101. Get a seat anytime from 9:00 and see these steel monuments roll by. You can even do like some watchers and bring an umbrella and a beach chair and look for a good spot.

At 2pm most of the cars will be at the Solana Entrance to the Del Mar Fairgrounds receiving awards. This promises to be the biggest cruise yet.

Where: Anywhere along the Historic Highway 101 between Oceanside and La Jolla, there will be 101 signs along the entire route.

What: A classic car cruise open to all pre 1975 And Custom cars and trucks.

Who: Produced by the Highway 101 Association a not for profit whose reason for being is to preserve and promote the Historic Highway 101.

Website: www.drivethe101.com

Application: http://drivethe101.com/beachn_cruise/08_App.pdf

Online registration: http://arestravel.com/1211_attraction-tickets_a238.html?ticketID=1010

Video: http://www.bigheadmarketing.com/101/101Cruise.htm

Contact: John Daley (760)439-1319

Eleventh Annual San Marcos Alive

Oct. 5, Sunday, 10am-4pm

The City of San Marcos is gearing up for its 11th annual San Marcos Alive (Celebration of the Arts Street Fair) that will take place on Sunday, October 5, from 10 AM - 4:00 PM at the San Marcos Civic Center. The City will be spreading the word that art is for everyone with the invitation to come and participate in over 20 hands-on art projects. Children through adults will have the opportunity to view art in a variety of ways, meet local artists, and see the creations of local students who have entered their artwork in our art contest. Entertainment will include performances by local dance studios, vocalists, martial arts students, baton twirlers, and local school bands. Clowns and facepainters will be on hand to entertain throughout the day. Bring a blanket and stay for the day. A food court area will feature a variety of foods and drinks. For further information call (760) 744-9000 or go to www.san-marcos.net.

ESCONDIDO RENAISSANCE FAIRE TRANSPORTS SAN DIEGANS BACK TO 16th CENTURY ENGLAND

October 25-26 & November 1-2

It's time for the residents of Falconbridge to celebrate the seventh annual Fall Renaissance Faire and Shakespeare in the Park Festival. The faire will be held on two weekends, Saturday and Sunday October 25-26 and November 1-2, 2008 at picturesque Felicita park in Escondido. 

As in years past, Renaissance enthusiasts from several western states will re-create16th century English life in an innovative living history display. The village will come to life with the sights, sounds and activities of the Elizabethan period, complete with the queen herself and hundreds of costumed subjects who will mingle with faire visitors as they entertain, educate and involve them in living outdoor theatre.

The Escondido Renaissance Faire is set in one California's most beautiful parks, full of meadows, glens, water falls, running streams and oak forests, typical of an authentic English countryside. Over the last seven years, the annual event has continued to grow, and is expected to draw close to 1,000 costumed re-enactors participating in the activities.

Additionally, popular themed food, ale and over 70 merchants featuring one of kind items will add to the visitor experience.

Admission includes all entertainment and is $15 for adults, $ 12 for seniors (62 and older) $7 for children 11 and under,  children 4 and under are admitted for free, active duty military with I.D. free Faire hours both days are from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. with different activities throughout the day, as well as 3 stages of  on going entertainment  A children?s play area is available. Felicita Park is located 1 mile west of the I 15 freeway, exit Via Rancho, west to Felicita Rd., follow signs. For more info: Gold Coast Festivals Inc.  www.goldcoastfestivals.com

62nd MCAS MIRAMAR AIR SHOW

October 3-5

This fall experience the spectacular Miramar Air Show, home of the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, and the largest air show in the country!

This year, the amazing Blue Angels are back and will be performing at Miramar commemorating the 62nd anniversary of the U.S. Air Force and promises to be an exciting performance. To complement the aerial performances, the flight line will have military equipment exhibits, air show memorabilia, and plenty of refreshments.

During the air show you will have the opportunity to spend time with our military’s most important asset - our service members. Talking with these brave young men and women will reveal their dedication and passion for protecting our nation and our way of life.

The air show has been a Miramar tradition for more than 50 years. The first large-scale Miramar Air Show was in 1953 at what was then Naval Air Station Miramar. 300,000 people attended. The event faced cancellations throughout the 1960s and 1970s due to the Vietnam War. Since 1974, it was held without interruption until it was cancelled in 2001 due to the September 11 attacks.

Parking is Free. Take I-5 south, merge left onto I-805 south. Take the Miramar Rd./La Jolla Village Dr. and follow Miramar Rd. to the west gate of MCAS Miramar.

26th Annual Carlsbad Rotary Oktoberfest

Oct. 4, Saturday, 1-10 p.m.

Come join the fun at Carlsbad’s premiere family event, the 26th Carlsbad Rotary Oktoberfest from 1 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4 at Holiday Park in Carlsbad. This family event features German food, German music, dancing, and a host of children’s activities, including a pumpkin-decorating contest, facing painting, clowns, and much more. The pumpkin-decorating contest is for children 5-15 years old. Roger and the Villagers will play their traditional brand of polka music, including the beloved “Chicken Dance, from 5 to 10 p.m. A German dinner will be served from 1 to 8 p.m. The dinner, back by popolar demand, and provided by Tip Top Meats in Carlsbad, includes two German sausages, German potatoes, cabbage and a roll. Save you appetite because this meal is gigantic and delicious! Tickets are $9 at the park or $8 in advance.

The event is sponsored by the Carlsbad and the Carlsbad Hi-Noon Rotary clubs.

All proceeds from the event are donated to local non-profit organizations, including the Boys & Girls Club of Carlsbad, the Women’s Resource Center and many more. For more information, go to www.rotaryoktoberfest.org or call (760) 434-6093.

Scream Zone is Back and Scarier Than Ever
at the Del Mar Fairgrounds

Looking for a good scare? The witching hour is drawing nearer as preparations are under way for the largest and scariest haunted attraction to hit San Diego County at the Del Mar Fairgrounds.

Back for its 11th year, the Scream Zone will encompass more than five acres on the west side of the grounds. A 5,000-square-foot tent has been erected and will be open to the public starting September 26. The Scream Zone features the Haunted Hayride, House of Horror, and The Chamber.

The House of Horror’s dozens of chambers filled with fiends, apparitions and scares are guaranteed to frighten even the bravest of visitors (not recommended for children younger than 10). The Chamber is a twisting, turning labyrinth of scares, inhabited by terrifying ghouls, monsters and “the undead” that appear unexpectedly around every corner. The Haunted Hayride takes visitors on a journey through an apocalyptical end of the world in the back barns of the Fairgrounds. About 40 percent of the attraction’s experiences will be new this year, making the Scream Zone a “must see” that shrieks “Halloween!”

The Scream Zone will be open Friday and Saturday, Sept. 26 and 27; Friday through Sunday, Oct. 3-5; Thursday through Sunday, Oct. 9-12 and 16-19; and nightly, Thursday, Oct. 23 through Saturday, Nov. 1. Hours are 7 p.m. to midnight Fridays and Saturdays, and 7 to 11 p.m. other days, when open. Admission prices are:

$27.99 for a triple haunt: the House of Horror, Haunted Hayride and The Chamber

$17.99 for a double haunt: the Chamber and House of Horror or Haunted Hayride

$14.99 for a single haunt, House of Horror or Haunted Hayride.

For more information call (858) 755-1161 or visit www.thescreamzone.com.

7th ANNUAL DIA DE DOS MUERTOS

November 2, Sunday 10am – 4pm

MainStreet Oceanside invites you to join us in Downtown Oceanside on Sunday, November 2, for this year’s celebration of Dia de los Muertos!

Downtown streets will be transformed into a flower-filled Mexican plaza using over 30,000 marigolds grown especially for the day by Mellano & Company. Marigolds are used to create the heart of the festival—the ofrendas, or altars, created by artists, students, and local Oaxacan families as memorials.

Guests will enjoy music, dancing, good food, and an expanded retail Mercado featuring fun and unusual items. The area that gets the most attention and most favorable compliments year after year is the Chalk Cemetery. This is an interactive area where people use flowers, candles, and chalk to create a memorial for loved ones resulting in a beautiful, heartwarming garden that stretches for an entire block by the end of the day.

There is also a family hands-on craft area, street entertainers, and opportunities to learn more about the history of this uplifting celebration.

For more information, call (760) 967-2005 or visit www.MSOceanside.com.

ANTIQUES ON MISSION IN OCEANSIDE

September 9, Sunday, 8am-3pm

MainStreet Oceanside presents the ninth Antiques on Mission Outdoor Market on Sunday, September 9, from 8am-3pm. This popular event attracts collectors, home decorators and browsers to peruse over 100 exhibitors. Thousands of treasures will be offered for sale and certified appraisers will be available to identify and value the items for a $5 fee. The market will close Mission Avenue from Coast Highway to Horne Street. Admission is free and downtown restaurants will offer food and drink specials

There will be free public parking in the downtown area just a few blocks from the event. Take Seagaze Drive or Pier View Way (both run parallel to Mission Avenue) west towards the beach. Cross Coast Highway and proceed to Cleveland Street where there are two large free public parking lots and a brand new parking structure with over 400 free parking spaces.

For more information visit the MainStreet Oceanside office at 214 N. Coast Highway, Downtown Oceanside, call 760 754-4512, or visit the MainStreet website at www.msoceanside.com.

Because I Care Community Fair

Sept. 6, Saturday, 9am-3pm

The City of San Marcos Community Services and Cal State San Marcos present “Because I Care”, a Community Fair aimed at raising awareness of and promoting healthy living.  This free event will be held at the San Marcos Senior Center, 111 Richmar Avenue on Saturday, Sept. 6, from 9 AM - 3 PM.  The fair will include educational workshops, a 1 mile walk, arts and crafts, entertainment, and an antique car show.  For more information, call (760) 744-5535 or go to www.csusm.edu/becauseicare

14TH ANNUAL CARMEL MOUNTAIN RANCH FALL FESTIVAL

September 14, Sunday, 10am – 4pm

The Carmel Mountain Ranch Fall Festival is an annual event that presents booths including arts and crafts, food, local businesses, nonprofit and public service exhibits, and lots more. There will be performances all day on two stages, and popular family activities including a Fun Zone. The fair has included a mini Motorhead Madness Classic Car show, the Children’s 10 Mobile, a doggie costume contest and a regular Halloween costume contest for kids, plus many other activities.

The Festival is located at Carmel Mountain Ranch Road, between Highland Ranch and Stoney Peak Roads. For more information, call 858-487-1767 or visit their web site. www.sdncc.com/events/CMR_Fall_Festival/

ESCONDIDO STEET FAIRE IS SECOND LARGEST IN CALIFORNIA

October 19, Sunday, 9am-5pm

The second largest street faire in the state of California is right here in North San Diego County, the Escondido Street Faire, which takes place on Sunday, October 19, from 9:00am to 5:00pm. Bring the whole family, because there’s something for everyone, including live entertainment, and more than 700 vendor booths featuring arts and crafts, a farmers market and fabulous international food. The entertainment on the stage at Brand and Broadway will showcase local talent throughout the day.

The Escondido Street Faire is located at Grand Avenue between Centre City and Ivy, and is sponsored by the Escondido Chamber of Commerce and the Downtown Business Association. There is plenty of parking available in the downtown area and at California Center for the Arts. For more information, contact the Chamber at (760) 745-2125 or visit their web site at www.ci.escondido.ca.us/events/faire/index.html.

LEO CARRILLO RANCH HISTORIC PARK FALL FESTIVAL

Nov. 8, Saturday, 11am-2pm

The Carlsbad Recreation Department presents a Fall Festival on November 8 from 11 am to 2 pm at Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park, 6200 Flying LC Lane (near the intersection of Melrose Drive and Carrillo Way) in Carlsbad. Parking will be available at Carrillo Elementary school with direct access into the park. Admission is free.

Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park, also known as Rancho de los Kiotes, was home to the prominent Latino actor and preservationist Leo Carrillo, best known for the role of Pancho in “The Cisco Kid” television series of the 1950s. The theme for this year’s popular community event is an Old West-style roundup, with Western music and dancing, cowboy arts and crafts, family fun zone and kids activities. Activity and chili tasting cards will be available for purchase.

Sample chili by local cooks at the Hometown Chili Cookoff

Entries for the Hometown Chili Cookoff will be accepted until Wednesday, November 5. There is no cost to enter but pre-registration is required. Download an entry form on the Special Events page or for more information visit www.carlsbadconnect.org or call (760) 434-2843.

City of Carlsbad Recreation Department

“Creating Community through People, Parks and Programs”

SEVENTH ANNUAL HARVEST AND GRAPE STOMPING FESTIVAL IN TEMECULA

September 28, Sunday, 4pm

The Harvest and Grape Stomping Festival at The Ponte Family Estate Winery, 35053 Rancho California Road in Temecula, is a wonderful way to spend an afternoon. There will be hay rides through the vineyards, lively entertainment and dancing, and a delicious Heart of the Harvest Buffet Dinner, a hosted Wine Bar with lemonade and iced tea, and delicious desserts. The highlight of the afternoon, of course, is the grape stomping competition, with cases of wine and gift certificates to give away as prizes. The fifth annual event is sure to be a sell out, so buy your tickets early and don╒t miss one of the most popular events in Temecula.

Ticket prices: $90 General Admission; $81 Wine Club Members

Children 12 years and under: $45 General; $41 Children of Wine Club Members

Children Under 3 Free

Take Interstate 15 to Rancho California Road, go east for about 6 ? miles. Ponte Winery is on the right hand side. For tickets or more information, call (951) 694-8855 or visit their web site www.pontewinery.com.

2009 MERCEDES TO BE RAFFLED OFF AT
GREEK FESTIVAL IN CARDIFF

Sept. 6 – 7, 10am-10pm

For a $10 raffle ticket you could win a 2009 Mercedes Benz C300 Sedan on Sunday, September 7 at 7:00 pm at the Saint Constatine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church in Cardiff.

While adults browse the bazaar featuring Greek imports, music, pottery, fine jewelry, and Greek artwork, the children can play at the game booths. The open marketplace offers fresh produce and Greek Deli specialties. Various appetizer booths sell cheese pita, stuffed grape leaves, Greek caviar dip, Greek rice pudding, and honey-dipped Greek donuts.

Church tours are held each day at 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm when you may view the exquisite interior mosaics, marble, unique stained glass windows, and Byzantine art. The iconography was produced under the direction of Bruno Salvatori, a world recognized master of mosaics.

Continuous international live music is featured on both days at the Kafenio (coffeehouse) stage where one can feast on delectable Greek pastries and traditional Greek coffee. Three dance troupes will be performing in full native dress at the outdoor patio area alternating with Greek dance instruction.

The highlight of the Festival is the popular Greek combination dinner featuring Souvlakia (barbecued Shish-kabob), Spanakopita (spinach pita), Pastitso (Greek lasagna), Dolmathes (stuffed grape leaves with rice), Pilafe (Greek rice), and Athenian salad with olives and feta cheese.

Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church is located at 3459 Manchester Avenue, Cardiff, 1/2 mile east of I-5 Manchester Avenue exit in Cardiff. Admission is $2.00 for adults; children under 12 admitted free. Park free at the adjacent Mira Costa College parking area. For more information call 760-942-0920.

19th ANNUAL FALL HOME AND GARDEN SHOW AT DEL MAR

September 12-14, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday

The 19th Annual Fall Home and Garden Show returns to the Del Mar Fairgrounds with hundreds of exhibitors displaying the newest products and services for the home, including kitchens, spas, floorings, indoor and outdoor furnishings, home improvement and gardening products, and decorating ideas.

Experts in all areas of home improvement will be under one roof to offer advice and conduct free seminars throughout the weekend. Topics will cover: when to call a professional; how to choose a professional; what to expect and how much to pay. The American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) will provide six theatrically lit and expertly designed vignettes.

The Garden Marketplace will display hundreds of plants available for purchase from the indigenous to the exotic and growers will be on hand for planting tips and advice. There will be free Garden Seminars and a variety of display gardens where visitors will see what the professionals can do.

Admission: $8.00

-Children under 12 years are free

-Seniors $1.00 admission on Friday September14 only

-$4.00 Discount tickets are available online

Parking at the Fairgrounds is $9. For more information call 858-350-3738 or visit www.fallhomegardenshow.com.

“HOT RODS AND COOL TREATS” ANNUAL CLASSIC CAR SHOW

September 21, Sunday

The Carlsbad Recreation Department is seeking classic cars, 1980 or older, for its annual “Hot Rods and Cool Treats” classic car show to be held on September 21 at Pine Avenue Park, 3333 Harding Street in Carlsbad. Judging will be in the following categories Best Paint, Best Engine, Most Original, Best Interior, Best Woodie, Oldest Driving Car, Kids’ Choice, Mayor’s Choice, Participant’s Choice and People’s Choice. Cars are eligible to win in only one category. Cost per entry is $25 for Carlsbad residents; $30 for non-residents. Deadline for entries is September 12. Proceeds from the entry fees benefit Carlsbad Senior Center programs. Download an entry form at www.CarlsbadConnect.org, or contact Teresa Dunn at (760) 602-4650 to request an entry form.

“Hot Rods and Cool Treats” is an intergenerational event celebrating California-style fun in the sun, with ice cream and beautiful cars in the park. Enjoy live music, fun zone, crafts, contests and ice cream. Dozens of classic cars will be on display, and all attendees are invited to vote for their favorites. Activity cards will be available for purchase.

For more information, call the Special Events hotline at (760) 434-2843, or visit www.CarlsbadConnect.org.

City of Carlsbad Recreation Department

“Creating Community through People, Parks and Programs”

Julian Apple Days Festival 

October 4-5, Sat. and Sun.

Menghini Winery, take highway 78 to Julian. Julian's Main Street becomes Farmer's Road north of town. The Menghini Winery is at the junction of Farmer's Road and Wynola Road. The two-day event features fun for the whole family; Saturday 10am-9pm and Sunday 10am-5pm. Among the scheduled activities are an apple pie bake-off contest, apple pie-eating contests, apple crafts, a vintage farm tractor display, and carnival games. There will be a wide variety of vendors. Live music is scheduled for both days and a Dance will be held Saturday night. Admission to the event is $3.00 for adults, 16 and older. Children, 15 and under, are free. www.julianappledays.com

LA JOLLA GALLERY AND WINE WALK

September 25, Thursday, 5-9pm

Over the years, La Jolla has set the standard in San Diego for exceptional coastal scenery, gorgeous weather, unique and elegant dining and prestigious art galleries. This self-guided tour on Thursday, September 25, from 5-9pm is second to none. Enjoy more than twenty-five of La Jolla’s famed galleries where you will find works from renowned international artists, sample exquisite wines from around the world, and indulge yourself with the specialties from more than twelve of La Jolla’s finest restaurants.

Tickets to the La Jolla Gallery and Wine Walk are only $30 and proceeds will benefit Promote La Jolla. Last year’s tour was a huge success, so this year the tickets will sell out quickly, since the number of tickets is limited. Tickets must be purchased in advance of the event. Persons participating in the wine tasting must register by 5:00pm and be at least 21 years of age. Registration takes place at the La Jolla Visitors Information Center Will Call Office at 7966 Herschel Avenue.

Valet parking is available for $7 at 1250 Prospect; self-parking is $3 on Cave Street. For more information call Promote La Jolla at 858-454-5718, McFarlane Promotions at (619) 233-5008 or visit the web site at lajollabythesea.com.

Everyone’s Invited to Mission Estancia’s Fall Festival

October 11, Saturday, 2:30-9:30pm

Mission Estancia Elementary School located on Calle Barcelona in Carlsbad, will hold its Annual Fall Festival on Saturday, October 11, from 2:30 to 9:30 pm.

Last year the festival drew approximately 1,000 people including students, parents, and local Carlsbad and Encinitas businesses. The goal of the festival is to provide a fun-filled day that kicks-off the school year while raising money to fund school activities and equipment.

Those that attended will remember the fun from last year—the slides, slot car racing, rock climbing wall, obstacle course, games, cake walk, haunted garden, haunted house, and the infamous dunk tank with Principal Gregg Sonken. Other activities in the past have included laser tag, jousting, and 3-D black light golf.

This year, attractions will include a haunted house, pumpkin patch, rock wall, motion simulator, train, obstacle course, ferris wheel, dance revolution, tubs of fun, and swing rides. Children play games and earn Wildcat dollars, which can be redeemed for great prizes at the Fun Zone Arcade.

Pre-sale coupons will be the best bang for your buck. Contact the school for additional information.

The Mission Estancia PTA is hoping to make this year's Fall Festival a record-breaking fundraising event. If you own or work for a business that can sponsor or donate to one of the activities, please contact the Mission Estancia PTA.

Moonlight Masquerade Gala at Escondido Children’s Museum

October 4, Saturday

This year’s theme is “Setting Sail.” Life is a journey, and childhood is when you set your course. The Escondido Children’s Museum arose to serve families and schools with wholesome, constructive and creative learning opportunities available nowhere else. A small staff works with many volunteers to bring visitors terrific value with unique exhibits and hands-on programs year-round. They believe that investing their energy as busy adults into the incredible potential in every child is the best investment around.

Buffalo’s Breath Costumes is again offering a 10% discount and consulting about your costume for the Moonlight Masquerade. It is suggested that you reserve your costume early. If you purchase your ticket or table, They will note your costume selection on the website, so people know that identity is “taken.” Call Buffalo’s Breath Costumes at (760) 739-9800.

The Children’s Museum features natural and social science and is an interactive museum. The masquerade ball is held on the first Saturday in October, just when everyone’s starting to think about Halloween and the holidays. It’s a great bash, with terrific food, drink, auction items and best of all, the company of like-minded people devoted to kids.

A silent auction will take place next door to the museum. The sooner you buy your tickets, the sooner you can “sign up for” the costume identities listed, which guarantees your creativity and fashion statement will shine unrivaled.

California Center of the Arts, Escondido, West Ballroom. For sponsorship registration visit www.escondidochildrensmuseum.org or call (760) 739-9513.

EAT, DRINK, SAIL AND BE MERRY AT
OCEANSIDE HARBOR DAYS

Sept. 20-21, Sat-Sun, 9am-6pm

The Oceanside Chamber of Commerce will present OCEANSIDE HARBOR DAYS on September 20 and 21 at the Oceanside Harbor. From 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, the two-day event will include activities for the whole family, including wonderful food, arts and crafts, a sailing competition and fishing derby.

The Mayor's Cup Regatta attracts participants from all over the county who are eager to demonstrate their sailing skills in a friendly competition around the buoys in the harbor. Their nautical experience and expertise will surprise and amaze all onlookers.

The Fishing Derby is a hands-on activity that will appeal to every member of the family from grandma and grandpa to the littlest fishermen. Young and old alike can cast their lines off the fishing pier in a good-natured competition to see who’ll land the biggest catch.

You won’t want to miss the extraordinary event called Nail and Sail. Spectators will actually watch contestants build their own ocean craft, then sail it out into the harbor and around a difficult course. The builders/sailors will have to sink or swim to the amusement and entertainment of everyone watching.

Harbor Days is free to the public and is presented by Oceanside Chamber of Commerce, Cox Communications and Genentech www.oceansidechamber.com

OCEANSIDE'S HARBOR DAY PAGEANT

Sept. 21, Sunday, 10am

Applications are now being accepted for the 29th Annual MISS SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA CHILDREN'S - TEEN PAGEANT, to be held on September 21, starting at 10 am. Girls, ages 2-19, are eligible to enter in six various age categories. Baby Miss: ages 2-3; Wee Miss: ages 4-6; Little Miss: ages 7-9; Petite Miss: ages 10-12; Junior Miss: ages 13-15; and Teen Miss: ages 16-19.

The pageant will be held during the OCEANSIDE HARBOR DAY CELEBRATION, sponsored by the Oceanside Chamber of Commerce.

All contestants will receive an award for entering the pageant. Judging will be on personality, poise, overall look, and speaking ability for the contestant's age.

For further information and applications, contact Elegance at 760-434-3397.

14TH ANNUAL ENCINITAS HERITAGE OKTOBERFEST

September 21, Sunday, 10am-6pm

For the fourteenth consecutive year, the Encinitas Chamber of Commerce will host the Annual Encinitas Heritage Oktoberfest on Sunday, September 21, from 10am-6pm, at Mountain Vista Drive and El Camino Real. A crowd of 35,000 visitors is expected for this six block, free event that features seven hours of authentic Bavarian bands, dancers, a German picnic BBQ, and a 140 foot food and beverage garden area.

Encinitas Chamber╒s CEO Gary Tucker is expecting as many as 200 craft booths, family fun rides, and a sweepstakes drawing for a trip to Germany. One of the highlights of the event will be a welcoming parade with many local officials, including the German Consul. The Encinitas Oktoberfest has been recognized as one of the top twenty Oktoberfests in the nation by the leading German Magazine in the U.S.

Bring the whole family out for a fun-filled day in Encinitas. Besides having a great time, you'll be supporting many worthwhile projects, since all profits from this wonderful event go to the Chamber?s community enhancement and education programs. For more information, visit our website www.encinitaschamber.com or call 760-753-6041.

San Diego International Orchid Fair at Quail Gardens

Friday, October 3, 1 – 5 pm

Saturday, October 4, 9 am – 5 pm

Sunday, October 5, 9 am – 4 pm

The splendidly colorful and intriguing San Diego International Orchid Fair again be hosted by Quail Botanical Gardens amidst the natural horticultural setting October 3, 4 and 5, 2008.  Visitors can expect to see thousands of species and hybrids, exhibits, sales, as well as lectures and official American Orchid Society (AOS) judging and ribbon judging.  This is the once a year orchid event held in Southern California with a focus on a maximum of International Vendors. Orchids from vendors of various countries such as China, Peru, Columbia, Venezuela, Taiwan, Costa Rica, Brazil and Ecuador will be on display and for sale.

General admission fees apply and are $10 for adults, $7 for seniors and active military and $5 for children ages 3-12. Children age 2 and under are free. Membership admission cost is free. $2 discount coupons are available at the Quail Botanical Gardens web site. Quail Botanical Gardens 230 Quail Garden Drive, Encinitas, CA 92024.

HERITAGE PARADE KICKS OFF POWAY DAYS

September 13, Saturday, 10am

POWAY DAYS is a week-long community festival that includes Community Day, the Heritage Parade, the Poway Rodeo, an Old-Tyme Melodrama, Good Neighbor Day, car shows and more. This year the HERITAGE PARADE kicks off the festival on Saturday, Sept. 15, at 9am and runs east along Poway Road from Pomerado Road to Bowron Road. For more information and a scheduled of events, visit www.poway.com/poway_days.php.

Or you can contact the Poway Chamber of Commerce at 858-748-0016. The web site for the parade is www.poway.com/parade.htm.

Quail Botanical Gardens’ Eighth Annual Gala in the Gardens

By: Jamie Werner and Bridget Smith

Sept. 13, Saturday 5:30-10 pm

Join the party on Saturday, September 13 from 5:30-10 pm for Quail Botanical Gardens’ biggest fundraiser of the year, the 8th Annual Gala in the Gardens – Celebrating a Return to Nature Honoring Richard Louv. The Gardens have named Loren and Susie Nancarrow as Honorary Chairpersons of the event.

Loren Nancarrow, weatherman for 10News, has been involved with Quail Botanical Gardens for the past 10 years. Lauren says, “ The Botanical Gardens are a jewel for this area that is growing so fast. It provides a place to get away, reflect, appreciate nature, and find out more about what grows here.” Nancarrow believes that government doesn’t spend enough money on parks. He hopes that people will use the Gala as an opportunity to support Quail Botanical Gardens so it can continue to be an oasis of tranquility in the midst of hectic life in North County.

With the current success of Quail Botanical Gardens’ interactive Children’s Garden and future expansion just around the corner, this year’s Gala will celebrate the beauty and joy of nature, as seen through a child’s eye. Bursts of bright colors and whimsical décor and gorgeous flora will delight guests’ eyes, while enjoying playfully live music and delicious food and drinks donated by FireFly Grill, Firenze Trattoria, The Shores, Tommy Bahama Rum, Yellow Coyote Tortilla Factory, and many more.

Each of the distinct gardens at Quail is magically transformed for the evening and great detail is given to pairing just the right food, drink and flora to each garden setting. Guests will enjoy sushi, sake and Zen music in the Bamboo Garden. Then dance to the rhythms of the islands and feast on foods with a Caribbean flare in the Herb Garden.

Being honored at the 9th Annual Gala in the Gardens is San Diego’s very own accomplished journalist and author, Richard Louv. Louv will be awarded the Paul Ecke, Jr. Award of Excellence. Louv is a futurist and journalist focused on family, nature and community, and most recently wrote the book, "Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children From Nature-Deficit Disorder" (Algonquin).

Last year’s event welcomed nearly 500 guests who, upon arrival, were greeted with champagne and upon leaving received a long stemmed red rose. The most successful fundraising event in the Gardens’ history, the 2006 Gala in the Gardens raised much-needed funds to help with the development, maintenance and beautification of the Gardens.

All proceeds \ benefit Quail Botanical Gardens’ (a 501(c)(3) charitable organization) educational exhibits and programs, which served more than 151,000 visitors last year.

For more information about the Gala in the Gardens or to purchase a ticket ($145 per person), please call (760) 436-3036 x. 218 or visit the website at www.qbgardens.org.

San Elijo Holiday Boutique

Nov 15, Saturday, 10am-4pm

The City of San Marcos Community Services and the San Elijo Hills Women’s Club present the 4th Annual San Elijo Holiday Boutique to take place on Saturday, November 15, from 10 AM to 4 PM at the San Elijo Hills Rec Center, 1105 Elfin Forest Road. This free event will include art & craft vendors, food, and entertainment, a free children’s craft area, and more. For further information call (760) 744-9000 or go to www.san-marcos.net.

San Marcos Trails Day

Nov. 1, Saturday, 9am-12pm

The City of San Marcos Community Services Department and the Friends of San Marcos Parks and Trails will be sponsoring the 17th annual San Marcos Trails Day on Saturday, November 1, from 9 a.m. to noon. Step back in time and hike the rural trails of San Marcos. Special access to trails not usually open to the public will allow views of South Lake, Double Peak, and the surrounding Valley of Discovery. Hikes of varying levels of difficulty will be offered. Check-in will be at 8:30 a.m. at the South end of Santa Barbara Street. From Hwy. 78, take Twin Oaks Valley Road and go south. Turn right on Craven Rd., then left on Santa Barbara Street. This free event is open to hikers and equestrians. Participants can register the day of the event or contact the Community Services Department at (760) 744-9000. More information can also be found at www.san-marcos.net.

STOMP THE GRAPES AND TASTE THE WINE IN JULIAN

AT THE GRAPE STOMP FESTA

Sept. 6, Saturday, 11am-7pm

The Julian Chamber of Commerce invites you to celebrate the harvest of the grapes with an old-fashioned grape stomp at the annual GRAPE STOMP FESTA at the Menghini Winery, 1150 Orchards Drive, Julian. Situated in rolling hills covered with vineyards and apple orchards, the Menghini Winery is a beautiful setting for the Festa.

Tons of grapes are blessed then poured into two barrels, one for adults and the other for children. Besides the grape stomping, the festivities will include Italian music by Roman Holiday, dancing, bocci ball competitions, wine tasting (not included in entrance fee), a Jumbo Jump for the kids and a variety of food and crafts for sale.

For the past nine years, the Grape Stomp Festa has been a successful fund raiser for the Julian Chamber of Commerce, attracting approximately 1800 people each year. The proceeds from the event support marketing the town, cleaning the streets, maintaining the public restrooms and funding historic preservation projects and events.

To get to Julian there are two routes from San Diego. The less curvy one: take Highway 67 through Ramona to Highway 78 East. The scenic route: take Highway 8 East to Highway 79 North past Lake Cuyamaca.

Admission: $10 adults (includes a commemorative wine glass); $5 ages 6 to 12; 5 and under free. For more information, contact: Krisie Morgan, Julian Chamber of Commerce (760) 765-1857 or check out their website at www.julianca.com/events.

Taste of Del Mar & Art Stroll

October 4, Saturday

Stroll among the artwork offered by more than 70 artists while teasing your palette and sampling a variety of culinary creations offered by Del Mar and San Diego North's finest food establishments. Sip wines, beers, and ales at select locations. Stroll through the quaint streets of downtown Del Mar and experience incredible artwork from juried local and regional exhibiting artists. Bring the kids down for a series of interactive art stations and a pet stroll. Live music and entertainment presented throughout the day in downtown Del Mar.

For more information please call (858)755-1179. www.delmarmainstreet.com

Train Song Festival and Railroad Movie Night

October 4, Saturday, 10 am - 4pm

The City of Poway and San Diego Folk Heritage will sponsor the annual Train Song Festival held at Old Poway Park, 14134 Midland Road. This unique festival will be held on Saturday, October 4, from 10 am to 4 pm. The event is FREE to the public. This daylong event will feature live musical entertainment about the songs inspired by the history and culture of surrounding railroads. There will be train-related vendors and displays, arts and crafts, food, storytelling, train robberies and children’s entertainment. The Poway Midland Railroad will provide train rides aboard their 1907 Baldwin Steam Engine for a nominal fee. The Poway Station Model Railroad club will host a vast display of model trains in Templars Hall and there will be a historical train display in the Heritage Museum. Old Poway Park’s very own western gun-fighting teams will provide authentic train robberies and historical re-enactments. Children of all ages will enjoy face painting, train crafts, storytelling, and toy train displays.

To complete the day’s festivities, the 7th annual Railroad Movie Under the Stars will be held at 7 pm. Bring a blanket and come enjoy a traditional-style railroad themed movie projected from the Old Poway Park Gazebo. The movie will be appropriate for all ages. Popcorn, hot cider, and other movie refreshments will be sold for a nominal fee.

This is an occasion for all to learn about the history of trains, enjoy the sweet sounds of railroad music, picnic in the park, and be a part of the fascination of Old Poway Park. (858) 668-4576.