Get your [[ Holiday ]] weekend on!

December is here and there are so many ways to celebrate the season! One of my favorite things to do is drive around and look at Christmas lights and neighborhood decorations. I've pulled the best of the Bay Area into this blog post so that you can enjoy the festivities too!

Mattos Orchard Lights: 1545 Stone Creek Drive, San Jose.

This enormous orchard goes all out and decorates their property with over 90, 000 lights for the season and even has a snow instillation to dazzle guests with wonder. Keeping with the Winter Wonderland theme, you will see reindeer, toy soldiers.. and you might get a glimpse of Santa. 

Crippsmas Place: Nicolet Ave, Cripps Place and surrounding streets, Fremont.

Talk about a neighborhood that goes all in. For over 60 years the residents have decorated their homes with lights and large scale lawn decorations that amazing walkers and drive-byers who visit at Christmastime. If you are able, they even accept donations on behalf of many well-known charities. 

Historic Estate Lights: Filoli Gardens 86 Canada Rd, Woodside.

Filoli Estate is home to some of the most beautiful gardens in the world. Well their version of Christmas time is no different. Stroll around the property and enjoy all of the twinkle lights as you sip your hot chocolate (or cocktails and wine for Mommy's and Daddy's) and enjoy all the magic of the estate.

San Jose Christmas in the Park: San Jose History Park.

Normally held in downtown San Jose's Caesar Chavez park, this has move across town so folks can stay snug in their car. All the decorations and adorable scenes are still there, with upgrades every year. Visiting this is one of my most fond childhood memories, and I always look for the Parachuting Pandas- a classic in my mind. Tickets are $10-$20 per car and reservations can be made here.

Oakland Glowfari- Oakland Zoo.

This year the park is home to some larger than life animal lanterns. Made from silk and 15 feet tall, the animals appear to touch the moon and light up the sky. Stroll through the park and enjoy the real animals and the imaginary ones. $12 for entry, proceeds go to the parks operating expenses. 

Los Gatos Fantasy of Lights: Vasona Park, Los Gatos.

A favorite of the South Bay for years, drive around the lake and see all of the decorations. Los Gatos dresses up their park with thousands of lights and animated figures. Look for reservations at the website here. 

The Ruth Bancroft Garden of d'Lights. 1552 Bancroft Rd, Walnut Creek.

If you know me personally, you know that I am a sucker for succulents and crazy for cacti. I had never heard of this until this year and it is on my list of must sees. All the plants are lit for the occasion where people can walk around and enjoy the garden. $8-$20 tickets must be purchased in advance here

San Mateo County Festival of Lights: 1346 Saratoga Dr. San Mateo.

The last on my list is for my Peninsula friends. This is a real drive through production, complete with interactive displays and wonderful candy worlds held at the county event center. Come and see why this has been a family tradition for so many years. Reservations and tickets available here. 

  

Not everything that's lost.. is gone forever

The Capitol Flea market is one of the last authentic flea markets left in my area. Sure there are a few in San Jose and the Bay Area, but often you find row after row of new items and stuff shipped in from China.. and sometimes a girl just wants to see used skateboard decks and vintage dolls from the 60’s. I love coming early with a coffee in hand and no real objective for my visit. I roam the aisles look and touching and asking “how much” and even if I leave empty handed I still feel fulfilled after my visit. 

I like people; watching them, talking to them and listening to their stories. That's why I had such an amazing relationship with my Nana, who just passed away-I love you forever, because I never discredited her. She was never old in my eyes, just vintage. For a woman who lived in a completely different era, she knew how to give advice for today- better than anyone I’ve confided in. She told stories that were never boring or outdated, they gave me the power to travel through time and see a whole different world. Some of my favorite qualities that she had were: her laugh, her winks from across the table, her commitment to using proper manners and grammar, her cute nana style, her story telling skills, HER COOKING, the love for her family, her spy like nature, the stubbornness, when she would force a closer bond with my little sister- my best friend, the way she made a coffee, her love for sweets- just like me, and the most was that she moved across the country the second I was born. I've never had someone who loved me that much. The is the most perfect British Nana. 

and she is mine. forever in my heart. 

The farmers market stalls are filled with fruits and vegetables from across the continent. You can find pineapples in winter and dahlias in the spring. The freshest bananas and heaps of peanuts. I recently switched to a plant based diet ( for many reasons, but health is a big one) so I enjoy stopping by and getting food for the week. I'm a big fan of putting money into a person's hand and not a corporation. So I always try to shop small when I can. 

Did I mention the flea market in in the same parking lot where they have drive in movies? So there are huge screens that surround the perimeter, which is pretty epic.

 You can find almost anything you need, or don't need. From home goods to sporting equipment, power tools and leather boots. Items for as low as 50 cents to furniture in the hundreds. One thing you can be sure of is that you will get it at a fair price and haggling is encouraged. Which honestly, I'm not good at that.. I usually just pay what they tell me.. so I have to work on that. :) 

Devon's Dish: [[ RUNNING SHOP&HOPS ]] restaurant review

Growing up in Morgan Hill, there were not a ton of things to do… but there was enough. Fast Forward 20 years later, and it’s still a tiny town to the outside eye.. But there is so much more available to the residents when it’s comes to finding fun things to do.

When Shanna was in town last week, I surprised her and took her to The Running Shopand Hops. We both had never been, and I had Maddie and knew they allowed dogs inside (win!).  I believe the owners opened originally as a running store in 2013. Then in 2016, reopened with the addition of a craft beer paradise.

I consider myself a self-proclaimed foodie and enjoy writing restaurant reviews, check out the one for this Campbell hot spot, here.

We went there for “happy hour” and ended up staying till closing. Sam was our awesome bartender for the night and he treated us to the largest beer tasting paddle known to man. But with over 90 amazing beers on tap, it was still really hard to narrow down only thirteen to try.

You have got to give this place a try, it’s a true hidden gem. The space, extensive beer selection and friendly service has enticed me to make a return trip soon. The rotating beer menu is such a great feature- you’ll never get bored of the menu. Not that you will ever be able to try everything on the list... but you could try.  Check it out here, to see if they have a few of your faves. 

ciao xx

get your weekend on

Ramen Festival 

435 S. Market st

San Jose Convention Center

tickets- $5.00

This is the biggest Ramen festival in the United States!! If you like to slurp- this is your playgroud. The website even advises you to come to the show hungry. BYOC (bring your own chopsticks)

South First Fridays Art Walk

Friday October 3,2014 7:00pm

This is a great event that takes place in the SOFA district of downtown San Jose. All the art galleries open their doors so you can grab a beer or glass of wine and walk around enjoying the last of the summer weather.

My friend Patrick's art show will be at the Kaleid Gallery tonight. I'll be there supporting his recent endeavor- The Art is Power Blackboard Project. Check him out and show your support!

Castro Street Fair

Sunday October 5, 2014 11-6pm

18th street at Castro, San Francisco

Artists, street performers, vendors and craftsmen line the street with all their wares. Enjoy the gorgeous weather this weekend in the city, while strolling down the street and enjoying the arts. 

Bay Area Beer Fest

Saturday October 4 2-5pm

1346 Saratoga Dr, San Mateo

tickets $20

Located at the event center, your ticket buys you over 20 tastings as well as live music provided my KFOX. The VIP section will include complimentary food and there will be different games and activities offered. 

get your weekend on

Salsa Festival

If you're big on salsa, this is basically your Fashion Week.. Come see the culinary excellence in all things spicy, steal some killer recipes and sample to your hearts content. 

September 27th 12-8pm

2200 Broadway Redwood City 94063

San Mateo Bacon and Brew Festival

tickets- $15

I don't think this event needs a description.. but if you have a pulse, you probably want to go to this. Lets face it, bacon goes well with everything.. but beer might top the list. come hungry!!

September 27th. 11-5pm

50E 5th st San Mateo 94010

Taste of Morgan Hill

One of my favorite festivals of the season. It officially brings summer to a close, but not without some amazing wine to finish off the season. So many wineries and breweries to tickle your taste buds, good food and cool art. 

September 27th and 28th. 10- 6pm

Monterey rd Morgan Hill 95037

get your {{Holiday Shopping}} weekend on

One thing I love about gift giving is the homemade treats you make for others. Or when you can find that really cool unique gift, that isn't sold at the mall like 100 others. I love that personal touch.

Enter this weekend

Because the Bay Area is filled with great stops for all the ones you still need to shop... for

[sorry I tried to make it rhyme]

SJ Made Holiday Pop Up Shop
2855 Stevens Creek Blvd Santa Clara Ca

Get your friends and family something local. They have clothing, accessories, bags and hats- all branded with the West Coast Bay Area feel. Your friend in Ohio will thank you.

Japantown
Jackson street from 2nd to 7th. San Jose Ca

You know I have to pay homage to my favorite little downtown spot. This street has blossomed over the last few months and it just keeps getting better and better. If you need to find something for the guy on your list, I would head here first. From Cukui to 2twenty5 and Holloway to Clout and Aristocrats you really cant go wrong. Guys drool over these designs.

Downtown Campbell 2nd Saturday
December 14th
East Campbell and Central Ave Campbell Ca

Artists' in wood working, metal, jewelery, art, and a ton of other artisans will will showcasing their wares in downtown. Perfect for grandparents, extended families and your girlfriend's Mom.

Ibiss
1100 Lincoln Ave Willow Glen Ca 95125

A great inexpensive shop where you can shop for every female on your list. I don't think you can go wrong with any item from this store. Everything is very trendy, fun and a great price point. They have small gifts, like rings and perfume.. all the way to big items like purses and dresses.. plus everything in between.


German Holiday Market
December 14th
500 Castro Street Mountain View Ca

Come shop all the international delights of all things euro. I have a soft spot in my heart for this country. Food items, art and other collectibles will be available for purchase at this festival. So if you know someone on your wishlist with a taste for flair, it might be worth your wild to check out this event.

Shop, Enjoy and Give Event and Wine Walk
December 17th
Santana Row
3055 Olin Ave San Jose Ca 95128
$10 admission

All the popular shops are there so you are sure to find something for everyone of your shopping list. Plus, this benefits the Second Harvest Food Bank.. why not do something good for your community?
Enjoy a sweet sip of wine while you shop my favorites; including, Anthropologie, Madewell and Free People.

flying high in Oakland

So I put a little teaser in last week, mentioning my high flying times while doing a trapeze class. We went to Oakland to Trapeze Arts and had a 2 hour class. The instructors definitely pushed you to the limits and showed you a good time. So if you're interested in it, make an appointment!

Yes.. I was scared out of my mind. The first jump was intense. I stood on the platform with my toes over the edge.. I was leaning, practically falling, off the platform. As soon as they released my safety harness.. that was when the butterflies all flew away. Sometimes you have to jump..

I was glad that somebody caught me.

We also went to Everett and Jones BBQ for dinner. You know I love bbq, and this place did not disappoint. The meat was full of flavor and juicy and the sauce was extra spicy, just the way I like it. They even offer their own brew that pairs perfectly with their brisket. Trust me.. you wont be disappointed.

signing my life away.. literally

street art <3

get your {{Holiday}} weekend on

image via

I love looking at the Christmas lights around the neighborhoods so far in December- but what I really love are the actual Holiday attractions that come with the season as well. On Thursday I'm going to Christmas in the Park, at Caesar Chavez park.  There are so many great events and activities going on around in the area  right now. To donate to the Christmas In The Park Exhibit Click Here. I've scoured the internet and compiled the ultimate Holiday Event List, so you won't have any excuse not to enjoy the sights of the Season. Hope you get to see a few or all off the list. Happy Holidays!!



Christmas in the Park- Downtown San Jose, Ca
101 West Santa Clara Street
San Jose, CA 95112
Hours- 9 PM to midnight until January 1st.

Fantasy of Lights- Vasona Park- Los Gatos, Ca
333 Blossom Hill Rd. Los Gatos, CA 95032
Mon - Sun 6 PM -10 PM

Ballet San Jose- Nutcracker- San Jose, Ca
San Jose Center for the Performing Arts
255 Almaden Blvd, downtown San Jose
Dec 8-23

Global Winter Wonderland- Great America
4701 Great America Pkwy.
Santa Clara, CA 95052
Every weekend Fri/ Sat/ Sun 4:00PM

Union Square Ice Rink- San Francisco, Ca
Union Square
San Francisco, Ca 94108

Drinking Stars Holiday Champagne Tasting- Enoteca La Storia :: Los Gatos, Ca
416 N. Santa Cruz Ave., Los Gatos, CA, 95030
Dec 8th 2:00 PM

Joyeux Noël at Chateau St Jean-

Kenwood, CA

Chateau St. Jean Winery

8555 Sonoma Hwy., Kenwood, CA, 95452

Sonoma County

Dec 8 + 9^th & Dec 15 +16^th

Old World Food Truck- San Francisco, Ca

Hanukkah Pop Up Dinners @ The Coffee Bar

Buy Tickets Here

1890 Bryant St., San Francisco, CA, 94141

Dec 8^th 5:30

A Christmas Carol- San Francisco, Ca

American Conservatory Theater
415 Geary St.
San Francisco, CA 94102

Dec 7^th – Christmas

Buy Tickets Here

It’s a Jewish Christmas- San Francisco, Ca

Make Out Room Bar

3225 22nd St.
San Francisco, CA 94140

Tuesday, Dec 25, 2012 5:00p

28^th Annual Christmas Show and Antique Market- San Rafael, Ca.

10 Ave of the Flags, San Rafael, CA, 94903

Saturday, December 8, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Sunday, December 9, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

:: get your weekend on ::

The start of the Christmas season is upon us.. and this weekend is the first weekend in December!!

The rain has been crazy here in Northern California and it sure does feel like Winter is here. This weekend there is an amazing indoor festival being held right down the street from my house, I mentioned it here before. The San Pedro Square Market, is one of my favorite places in downtown San Jose- there are so many fun places to grab a bite and concerts happening almost every weekend.

funny for your weekend

SJ Made Holiday 2012

It is being held in the large building near the coffee shop. It opens at 11am and lasts 'till 6:00pm. There will be a TON of individual artists, crafters, clothing designers and so many other artisans...it's a vendor fair for local San Jose makers, labels, brands, small businesses, and artists showcasing and selling current projects and goods.

 It will be like the ultimate "Pop Up" shop!! Feel good about buying gifts for others while supporting your local economy and small business owners.

Santa's Village in Willow Glen

This event is Saturday night only from 5-8 at the Lincoln Glen Church. This is another community event that shows off the local talent with a shopping event with other small shops and Santa will be there at 6pm.. if you have little ones in your life. Go out and support this adorable town.

maybe I'll spot you at SJmade.

enjoy your weekend

xo ciao

get your weekend on :: Small Business Saturday

image

After a wonderful dinner yesterday and getting to catch up with my Dad's side of the Family, I am truly blessed and thankful for this Holiday. Getting to have dinner this year with both of my Grandmas was so special and I loved getting to spend extra time with them. I know I'm lucky to still have both of mine around and I enjoy learning about their lives and hearing all the old stories. I hope everyone had a fantastic Holiday.

Now onto the weekend.. I didn't participate in any of the Black Friday craziness, did any of you? I used to work retail and I can honestly say I would never voluntarily choose to go shopping at that time. I even have to go to Target for a few things today, and I'm still scared.

image

As you know, Black Friday is the day after Thanksgiving {sometimes at 12:01 am} when large retailers give amazing deals to kick start the Holiday shopping. <-- not too fond, but love this--> Small Business Saturday partnered with American Express.

It's the Saturday after Thanksgiving where you give back to the community by shopping at the local boutiques and individually owned shops to help promote the economy. I think it's a great way to make sure the large corporations don't hog all the business and we allow the smaller "mom n pops" to prosper.

So rethink your shopping destinations and check out the Small Business Saturday tomorrow November 24th. Some Northern California local shopping destinations I would highly recommend are Los Gatos, Los Altos, Mountain View, Morgan Hill, Santa Cruz, Palo Alto on University and Pleasanton. I would say San Francisco but there are so many locally owned shops- you should go to every neighborhood. Some of my favorites in the City are; Noe Valley, Marina, Hayes Valley, The Mission and The Height.


image

So please get out there are support all those adorable local shops you always promise yourself that you are going to go in- because tomorrows your day!!

:: get your SPOOKY weekend on ::

ok boys and ghouls, this is a special edition dedicated to all things scary in honor of Halloween ... and let me tell you, I want to scare the pants off of you!! Unfortunately, I can’t do that sitting at my computer, but I can tell you where to go for a frightfully good time.

I feel like the Bay Area is in love with Halloween because there are so many options to choose from. You can get idea by checking here and filling in your stipulations for something in your area. I have done some research and found the best haunts in the area, just to help you narrow down your choices.

Have a fun and safe Halloween everybody!!

Winchester Mystery House

This is the story of the wife of the man that invented the Winchester Rifle. She believed that all the spirits of people who were shot and killed by her husband’s invention, would come back and kill her. So she built staircases that led to nowhere and doorways that opened to brick walls… all so the spirits couldn’t find her. Experience this tour with flashlights, oh and watch your step.

Runs through Nov 3

$36 admission

525 S Winchester Blvd San Jose, CA 95128

Conover Mystery Ranch

Since I grew up in Morgan Hill, Hollister was only a 20 minute drive for me… but to all you North Bay folks, this fright fest is totally worth the drive. Girls, you will cry… scary guys chase you with chainsaws!!! If you really want to get scared this Halloween, this is the best in the business. For a preview click here. But proceed with caution.

2600 San Felipe Road, Hollister, CA 95023

$25 admission for the corn maze and haunt

Dead Time Dreams Haunted Attractions

Just reading the description for this event gives me chills. Plus you get to experience two haunted houses for the price of one, what a deal. They have the "Meat Factory" and "The Church"

2501 Tully Rd. at East Capitol Expressway, 95122

$15 admission and the doors opens at 7

California’s Great America- Halloween Haunt

This is an event that happens after hours at the park. Everything gets a touch of Halloween with several mazes throughout the park and all the zombies and vampires come out to scare the park guests. All rides are open too, just don’t loose your head.

fortunately No one under 13 is admitted, so you know it is scary!

4701 Great America Pkwy Santa Clara, CA 95050

$30 admission for entrance and it runs 7pm-12am

World’s Largest Haunted House

This event is located at the Santa Clara fairgrounds and has won the award for biggest/best haunted house for the last few years. It fits the bill if you’re looking for some local frights.

$22 admission

344 Tully Road San Jose, California 95111

Hell on Wheels

Also, just to throw this fun one into the mix- the Teen Musical Theater up in San Francisco is hosting a Haunted House too. There will be tricks and treats but best of all a Thriller performance, which is sure to be amazing, go check them out!!

$4 admission and is open from 7-10

346 Fair Oaks, San Francisco, CA

image via

get your weekend on // Follow Friday



Ok this is effortlesslii’s first Follow Friday but it pairs perfectly with Get Your Weekend On. If you are a fitness enthusiast, like myself, and are interested in CrossFit- I highly recommend you head over to CrossFit Silicon Valley this weekend for their annual OctoberFit Throwdown. This is an event not to be missed because of all the other Box’s who participate from all over the Bay Area. Come see athletes compete, test their abilities, push their limits, win, loose, and most of all SWEAT!!! Learn a new workout, meet elite athletes and learn how to get started.

This weekend is also a huge launch for my boyfriend

(insert proud girlfriend squeals here!!)

His company Tabata Times is having another launch party this weekend during the OktoberFit event and they will be unveiling their new marketing material- he’s the creative director and lead photographer Plus he completely re-designed their box for the event. I have seen all the behind the scenes work for the last few weeks [[ which is Amazing ]] and I can’t wait to see everything finished!! Too bad I’m headed out of town today and won’t get to attend the event this weekend, I am beyond bummed…

But please go, support, learn, enjoy!!

Follow my guy on Twitter and Instagram @lenscaption

Follow Tabata Times on Twitter @TabataTimes and Like on Facebook

Follow CrossFit Silicon Valley on Twitter @CrossFitSV and Like them on Facebook

Any press on the event- tag your shots//tweets with #SVOctoberFit

While you’re there… you can follow me too

Instagram @devonfoster

Twitter @devonnfosterr

(confusing, I know) lol

 

get your weekend on // Orange October



they could go all the way!!!

                                                         GIANTS ARE KILLING IT!!

I don’t know of anything happening this weekend that isn’t focused around Pumpkins and Harvest season. I feel like the second weekend in October is the kickoff for all things Fall. Here is California, up until last week, we were still experiencing 90+ degree days- which doesn’t make for ideal boot and coat weather. Well this week, Mother Nature is singing a different tune and has brought in the rain and dropped the temperatures quite a bit. The weekend might hold a few showers but nothing that a good pair of rain boots cant handle.

In Campbell this weekend is the

Octoberfest

all weekend. This is a very popular event for Campbell and it is always packed, so take the LightRail or get there early to find parking. The festival runs both days from 10-6 and is boasting a quite impressive beer selection.

Peninsula

Oktoberfest is also this Saturday, being held in Redwood City from 10-6 as well. J Just to entice you… here are some of the breweries (local and large brands) that will be featured this year- Ale Industries, Devil’s Canyon Brewery, Gordon Biersch, Lucky Hand Beers, Palo Alto Brewing, Sierra Nevada, Spaten, Tied House Brewery, Triple Voodoo Brewing, Uncommon Brewers.

I might try to go to Campbell, but the majority of my weekend will be spent preparing for Halloween. Since I will be traveling to Sunny San Diego next weekend, I wont have time to prep before hand. I cant wait to share with you my favorite Fall treats and Halloween goodies.

Happy Weekend!

::get your weekend on::

It’s Fleet Week here in San Francisco, which is a pretty big deal. The City is going to be packed so either leave early to beat the crowds or take public transportation into the City. If you’re into ships or the Blue Angels or if you just like supporting our military, you should go and thank some soldiers. All events run through Tuesday, see the full schedule here.

Join in the celebration at the Spirit of Japantown festival, in San Jose. This is the year of the Dragon so the party is sure to be fierce! All the usual deliciousness will be available and you should check out he Wall Mural project while your in town- serious talent.. The town of Millbrae is also throwing their Japanese Festival too! So whether you’re in the South Bay or the North Bay you can get your sushi on!

If your in the South City vicinity, check out the San Carlos Art and Wine faire. You know that I love A&W festivals… hello, wine plus shopping equals fabb!! Plus back by popular demand is the hot rod car and classic car show. It will be both days this weekend from 10 to 6.

This event is for all the females and chocoholics out there. Belmont is having the 30^th annual Chocolate Festival at the Congregational Church of Belmont. Chocolate Fest will be organized in three sessions: Friday evening, 7:30-10 p.m.; Saturday afternoon, 1:30-4 p.m.; and Saturday evening, 7:30-10 p.m. You can purchase tickets here.

This weekend in Foster City is the Rib Festival, I’m a big fan of BBQ so if I were in town this weekend I would for sure be going to this event. For only $40 you can enjoy delicious food, drinks, live and silent auctions, entertainment by The Jack Aces, and door prizes. It is tomorrow from 5:30-9 pm at

William E. Walker Recreation Center

Another small town event that I am so sad I’m missing is the HUGE Garage Sale in Los Gatos this Saturday. The entire town is participating in the event and I know there are treasures to be found. Los Gatos has a great reputation for all things classic, trendy and classy- so I’m sure you wont leave empty handed if you go!

For you musical entertainment this weekend… go see Florence and the Machine at the Shoreline Amphitheater in Sunnyvale. Madonna will be performing at the HP Pavilion on Saturday and Sunday this weekend in San Jose. Click here to get you tickets for the events.

ciao xx

ahoy

its. gonna. be. HOT...
nothing too exciting happening in the Bay Area this weekend. So pack up a picnic, head to the beach, relax in the backyard, or open a bottle of wine.... because it's time to chill and enjoy the last days of the Summer weather.

Happy Weekend!!
XO

::get your weekend on::

The Bay Area is back and packed with a full weekend of fun events. A lot of things are happening close to Home, so if you live in the South Bay... get ready!

a nap sounds like a good idea

Hollister is having their Hot Cars and Guitars and it is being held at Bolado Park on Saturday the 15th. There will be a bunch of different Blues, Soul and Country artists performing throughout the day. And there will be a zillion (ok maybe not that many, but a ton) of classic hot rods, muscle cars, custom rides and smikin' trucks. Throw on your boots, bring your own beer koozie, and get ready to boogy!

Out in downtown this weekend if you head to the Sofa District you can check out  (e)merge- the Zero1 street festival tonight starting at 6:00pm. It is a street festival focused specifically on showcasing work by emerging artists! They are filling streets city blocks of the SoFA District along South 1st Street. Plus you can check out the other art galleries too! Great inspiration here people... & if you cant get out there tonight for the event... the artwork will remain up all weekend for your viewing pleasures.

It's no secret around here that I have fallen for wine, see here and here, and after a fun art and wine festival in Mountain View last weekend... lets do it again in Santa Clara at Central Park. The Santa Clara Art and Wine Festival will be held Saturday and Sunday and there will be over 175 vendors at the event.

Pleasanton will also be having their 40th Harvest Festival at the Alameda County Fairgrounds. This is a huge event and if you are into the little decorations and artsy items... there will be over 24,000 to choose from.

Little Saratoga has big things happening this Sunday with a Village Block Party and Grape Stomp. The event will have three stages with over 22 bands, dancers, some of the best wineries including Kathryn Kennedy, artisan beer, announcing Citizen of the Year, and lots of yummy gourmet food. Plus..[how cool is this] the master of ceremonies will be a robot!!

If you want to head over to the coast, you should hit up Santa Cruz for their Greek Festival... I don't know about you, but if I know there will be good Greek Food... I don't mind driving for it. And with a ton of different vendors to choose from, you're bound to find something you like. Aside from you regular line-up of drinks there will also be a taverna serving traditional Greek spirits. And after you feast enjoy your time while the Kafenio whips up authentic Greek Frappe in the traditional style of Greek cafes. YUM

And if you have tons of energy and want a little more activity than the other events, you should head to Foster City and enjoy their Community Bike Ride. It is happening on Sunday and the ride begins at Boothbay Park at 10:00am. Families and individuals are invited to participate in the annual 2.5 or get a little adventurous with the 11 mile ride.