Focus on Oakland
Fire Arts Festival - July 2009
Firepower without the military? Yes. Every year, Oakland's Crucible, a think tank and shop for metal works and high-risk arts, hosts a gloriously bright Fire Arts Festival in Oakland's Jack London Square. Held in the evening for maximum clarity, the Fire Arts Festival features fire dancers and amazing fire sculptures. Sip some wine, chill with a beer and prepare for the works.
Fremont Festival of the Arts
On Paseo Padre btw. Walnut & Mowry Ave. (near BART), Fremont California; Tel. +1 510.795.2244
Shop, drink, eat, and be entertained at the largest, free, street festival in Northern California ... and don't feel guilty about it for a second. All profits from your wine sampling and handcrafted doodad buying will benefit over 40 nonprofit organizations in the Tri-City community. Free.
Berkeley Kite Festival
Cesar E. Chavez Park, Berkeley Marina (North End), Berkeley California; Tel. +1 510.235.KITE
Finally accessible by foot or bike via the new footbridge, the Berkeley Marina is just waiting for your affection. Come love it up during the biggest kite festival in the West-ern Hemisphere. This whimsical event features kite flying competitions, a kite ballet, kites as big as houses, kite-making workshops for kids, and even a (kite?) event for dogs. Combine all of this with great food, music, and a sturdy windbreaker and you're set for a high flyin' weekend. Free.
Featured Hotel: The Ahwahnee - Yosemite
The Ahwahnee shines as Yosemite National Park’s distinctive AAA® Four-Diamond hotel. Known for its magnificent façade, and architecture, The Ahwahnee was specifically designed to highlight its natural surroundings, featuring Yosemite Falls, Half Dome and Glacier Point. The destination of queens and presidents alike, The Ahwahnee offers a perfect balance of history, hospitality and elegance.
For more information
See the section on Yosemite Vacations where there is a complete review of places to see and accomodation to suit all tastes - Yosemite Vacations
