Times and dates are subject to change.
Contact event coordinators for up-to-date information.

SPOTLIGHT

mar 13

Best of SF

Back by popular demand, the San Francisco Stand-Up Comedy Competition returns to the Clark Center in San Luis Obispo to wow you with a hilarious new lineup of some of the best comedic talent in the country. Tickets $30-$40. (805) 489-9444; wwww.clarkcenter.org

march – may

Orchids, Orchids Everywhere!

Photo courtesy Santa Barbara International Orchid Show

Springtime means orchid season is in full bloom on the Central Coast. Here’s the best way to experience the beauty of these intricate and majestic flowers:

mar 12 – 14:

Nature in Harmony

In its 65th year, the Santa Barbara International Orchid Show is flourishing at the Earl Warren Showground from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. $10-$12. 12 & under free. (805) 687-0766; www.sborchidshow.com

mar 27 – 28:

Orchids Gone Native

The 15th Annual Central Coast Orchid Show and Sale sponsored by the Five Cities Orchid Society will be held from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Sunday at the South County Regional Center in Arroyo Grande. $5, free for children 12 & under. (805) 929-6710; www.fcos.org

may 1 – 2:

Carmel Valley Garden Show

With the theme of “sustainable”, the Carmel Orchid Society and the Carmel Valley Garden Association unite to bring you a bouquet of orchid activities at the Hidden Valley Music Seminars in Carmel Valley Village from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. www.carmelorchidsociety.org

apr 23 – 25

Red, Juicy, & Sweet

The Santa Maria Fairpark is ripe with fun this April, hosting its annual Strawberry Festival for the whole family to enjoy. Celebrate Santa Maria’s #1 agricultural crop with an abundance of fresh, local strawberry desserts, demonstrations, and activities. www.santamariafairpark.com

apr 25

The Incredible Machine Tour

Country super-duo Sugarland performs live at the Santa Barbara Bowl at 7 p.m. for one night only. Recently nominated for “Best Country Performance By a Duo or Group with Vocals” at the 2010 Grammy Awards, Jennifer Nettles and Kristian Bush have wowed audiences across the nation with hits such as “It Happens” and “Already Gone.” Come hear why! Tickets $44 to $77. 805-962-7411; www.sbbowl.com

apr 29 – may 1

Revel in All Things Rhône

Renowned as one of the largest gatherings of international Rhône wine producers and enthusiasts in the world, the 18th Annual Hospice du Rhône wine extravaganza will once again be held at the Paso Robles Events Center. Don’t miss your chance to be a part of this informative weekend by attending seminars and meeting with passionate winemakers while enjoying the best Rhône wines from around the world. Tickets $100-$795. www.hospicedurhone.org

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

mar 6 – may 2

Moon Medicine

Delight in the major monographic exhibition of Sanford Biggers on display at the Santa Barbara Contemporary Arts Forum. A combination of sculptures, video, and even a public performance combines to create a truly unique experience for viewers. (805) 966-5373; www.sbcaf.org

mar 11 – apr 25

Lumberjacks in Love

Known for their hilarious twists and side-splitting music, The American Melodrama doesn’t disappoint in this comical tale of four bachelors who think they have it all, until a mail order bride arrives to wreak havoc on their lifestyle. www.americanmelodrama.com

mar 17

Zac Brown Band

Get your tickets now for what’s sure to be a thrilling concert by 2010 Grammy Award Winner for “Best New Artist”—the Zac Brown Band. The group will perform irresistible hits and amaze you with their musical talent at the Arlington Theatre in Santa Barbara at 7 p.m. Don’t miss the excitement! (805) 963-4408; www.thearlingtontheatre.com

mar 18

Irish Folk Band

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with the dynamic sounds of traditional Irish Folk Band, Altan, one of Ireland’s premier traditional musical groups. The Claddagh School of Irish Dance opens the show at the Clark Center in Arroyo Grande starting at 7:30 p.m. Tickets $35-$45. (805) 489-9444; www.clarkcenter.org.

mar 24

Cabaret

The Sunset Center in Monterey presents the musical phenomenon Cabaret! Winner of 12 Tony Awards, Cabaret is a masterpiece that takes place in 1930s Berlin on the eve of the Nazi takeover—full of colorful characters and foot tapping tunes. www.sunsetcenter.org

apr 9 – may 2

Taking Leave

Directed by Anet Carlin and written by Nagel Jackson, this stimulating performance contemplates the struggles of a Shakespearean scholar battling the frustrations of Alzheimer’s disease. While addressing a serious subject, it is presented in a heart warming way that leaves you laughing throughout. www.slolittletheatre.org

apr 9 – apr 11

La bohème

The timeless classic comes to San Luis Obispo’s Christopher Cohen Center for one weekend only. Don’t miss the chance to witness Giacomo Puccini’s powerful story of passionate love and intense heartbreak all accompanied by riveting music. Tickets $25 - $65. (805) 756-2787; www.pacslo.org

apr 12

Elvis Costello

Coming to Cal Poly Performing Arts Center at 8 p.m., iconic rock legend Elvis Costello will wow you with a solo performs of his original songs: past, present, and future. Tickets $56 - $74. (805) 756-2787; www.calpolyarts.org

apr 24 – may 16

Crimes of the Heart

Don’t miss the Pulitzer Prize-winning play written by Beth Henley and directed by James O'Neil featured at the Rubicon Theatre in Ventura. This relatable comedy will have you examining your own sibling rivalries and family rifts while laughing at the on-stage drama. Tickets $39 - $59. (805) 667-2900; www.rubicontheatre.org

back to top

FESTIVALS & FAIRS

mar 12-21

SLO International Film Festival

Enjoy festival film screenings venues throughout San Luis Obispo County while delighting in the unique history and lovely spring weather of the Central Coast. (805) 546-FILM; www.slofilmfest.org

mar 19 – 21

Zinfandel Festival

Celebrate the robust reds and semi-sweet rosés of Zinfandel varietals offered by top Paso Robles wineries. Attend a Saturday evening Zin Tasting, including over 50 wineries as they showcase their unique Zinfandel blends as well as delicious local restaurants providing perfect pairings. (805) 239-8163; www.pasowine.com

mar 26 – 28

Cattlemen’s Western Art Show

The Paso Robles Event Center houses the original art of 60 talented individuals who will be on site to talk about their work, including the featured artist, Bob Coronato. Free. (805) 466-5446; www.cattlemenswesternartshow.com

apr 3 – 4

Home and Garden Show

The Santa Maria Fair Park hosts a day of great resources and events to help make your house a home. The Santa Maria Fair Park hosts a day of great resources and events to help make your house a home.

apr 8 – 11

Pebble Beach Food and Wine Event

www.pebblebeachfoodandwine.com

apr 16-18

Toast to Earth

Hosted by the Central Coast Vineyard Team (CCVT), the 4th annual Earth Day Food and Wine Festival welcomes you to the historic Santa Margarita Ranch. Local vintners, chefs, and growers will all be in attendance to share their earth conscious concepts with food and wine lovers alike. Raise a glass to sustainable practices while tantalizing your taste buds at this annual celebration. $15 - $500. (805) 369-2288; www.earthdayfoodandwine.com

apr 17

Vintner’s Festival

Meet your local vintners, taste their wines, and hear their stories first hand while lavishing in great food, music, and atmosphere at River Park in Lompoc from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. (805) 688-0881; www.sbcountywines.com

apr 17 – apr 18

Scandinavian Festival

California Lutheran University invites the public to experience the Nordic cultures of Denmark, Iceland, Finland, Norway, and Sweden through food, entertainment, and demonstrations (such as dramas, and storytelling) from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Kingsmen Park in Thousand Oaks. Admission is $5, free for children 12 and under & CLU students. www.callutheran.edu/scanfest

back to top

WINE & DINE

apr 10 – 11

Wine 4 Paws

Raise a glass to our four-legged friends at the 2nd annual fundraiser for Woods Human Society in San Luis Obispo. With local wineries donating a portion of their weekends’ proceeds to Woods, everybody wins! Check the website for participating wineries, print a free passport, and then get it stamped at six or more wineries to be entered for fun raffle prizes! www.wine4paws.com

apr 25

Fiesta by the Sea

Support local children in need by attending this altruistic event benefitting the Assistance League of SLO County and Operation School Bell, a non-profit organization. Located at the beautiful Avila Beach Golf Resort, you will be treated to dinner, wine, and entertainment, as well as a live and silent auction. (805) 466-3503; www.alslocounty.org

apr 30 – may 2

Roll Out the Barrels Weekend

Such enthralling activities as Barrels in the Plaza at Mission Plaza in SLO, a winemaker’s dinner, and a rolling out the barrels passport weekend (access to over 20 wineries, food and wine pairings, reserve barrel tastings, entertainment, and special discounts) make this four day line-up a must! (805) 541-5868; www.slowine.com

back to top

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

mar 21

Wine Country Run

Choose between a ½ marathon run/walk, 5k run, or ½ mile kids “Grape Stomp” through beautiful, winding wine country. Starting and ending at the River Oaks Hot Springs, the breathtaking route takes participants over rolling hills and through picturesque vineyards. www.winecountryrun.com

mar 27

Easter Fun in the Park

Families are sure to have an Egg-celent time at the annual downtown Paso Robles East egg hunt from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Easter Bunny will make an appearance and children ages 4 to 9 can fill their baskets with prizes and candy. Also enjoy hot dogs, face painting, balloon animals, and more! (805) 238-4103; www.pasoroblesdowntown.org

mar 27

Ojai Wild!

Support the community-based nonprofit organization, Los Padres ForestWatch, which is working hard to protect and restore the wilderness landscapes, wildlife habitat, and outdoor recreation across the Los Padres National Forest. Enjoy a day in the sun including guided hikes, a gourmet barbeque, benefit auction, and live music during the third annual fundraiser located at picturesque Diamond Hitch Camp. Tickets $20 for children 14 & under, $75 for adults. (805) 617-4610 ext 2; www.LPFW.org

mar 27

Dog Jog

Man’s best friend is welcome to jog alongside their owners at the 2nd annual Paso Robles Dog Jog from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Choose from a 4K/2K run or walk, or a 1K kids race starting at the Paso Kennedy Club Fitness. Participants can even rent-a-dog from Woods Human Society for a $50 donation to the event. Proceeds benefit North County Dog Parks. (805) 239-4437; www.parks4pups.org

apr 3

Breakfast with the Bunny

Grab the kids and hop to downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea for a free breakfast hosted by the Carmel Host Lions Club at Devendorf Park. Kids and adults alike can partake in games, face painting, and other spring-time festivities. Free. (831) 649-8808

apr 10

Children’s Day in the Plaza

Let your kids learn by doing. Bring them to Mission Plaza in San Luis Obispo for educational booths and interactive activities from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. (805) 782-7280; www.slocap.org

apr 22 – 25

Come out Swinging

A longstanding tradition, the 110th annual Ojai Valley Tennis Tournament, set amongst rugged mountains and incredible orange groves, features tennis celebrity guest appearances and is sure to be an exciting event for participants and onlookers alike. (805) 963-2014; www.ojaitourney.org

back to top

UPCOMING EVENTS

may 13 - 16

Carmel Art Festival

Now celebrating its 17th year, this is a public benefit event held to educate and inspire people of all ages about the visual arts. This year’s festival includes the Plein Air and Sculpture-in-the-Park events, as well as a Quick Draw by the winning artists and a Kids Art Day. The Carmel Art Festival is a non-profit organization with donations from the events supporting local youth art programs. www.carmelartfestival.org

may 14 – 16

Antiques and Vintage Decorative Arts Show

CALM (Child Abuse Listening and Meditation) invites you to the Santa Barbara Earl Warren Showgrounds for a weekend of 80 of the west’s finest antique and decorative arts dealers selling everything from period furniture, garden artifacts, decorative accessories, paintings, estate jewelry, silver, textiles, linens, glassware, china, porcelain, and much more. Fri. 11-7, Sat. 11-6, Sun 11-5. Tickets $6, children under 12 are free. (805) 898-9705; www.CALMantiqueshow.com

may 17 – 18

SLO Home Show

Give your home some much needed TLC by checking out the numerous local resources available to help vamp up your home, inside and out, at the Alex Madonna Expo Center in San Luis Obispo. www.slohomeimprovement.com

may 21 – 23

Paso Robles Wine Festival

More than 140 area wineries host special activities throughout the weekend including winemaker dinners, food pairings, cooking classes, winery and vineyard tours to complete your Paso Robles Wine Festival Weekend. www.pasowine.com

back to top

RECURRING EVENTS

Dec 26 – apr 12

Whale Watching Cruises

Be amazed by the sites and sounds of nature during Whale Watching Cruises taking off from the Ventura Harbor that run from 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. Scan the horizon for the Pacific Gray Whale as it migrates to Mexico as they pass through the Santa Barbara Channel. Contact: Island Packers (805) 642-1393; www.ventura-usa.com

Saturdays

Carpinteria Salt Marsh Tour

Experience this breathtaking preserve first hand as you witness animals coming to life in their natural habitat with tours starting at 10 a.m.(805) 684-5405; www.carpinteria.ca.us

Mondays

Environmental Speaker Series

Local and national environmental and business leaders will speak on current “Hot Topics in Environmental Policy” from 6 p.m. – 7:30 p.m at the Monterey Institute of International Studies. 1(831) 647-4123; www.miis.edu

Tuesday evenings

Fresh Greens

The Sustainability Project presents free adult education classes from 5:30 p.m. – 7 p.m. at the Santa Barbara Library to better prepare you for living a more earth-friendly lifestyle. www.sustainabilityproject.org

Tuesday nights

Poetry Readings

Come enjoy poetry at the San Buenaventura Artist’s Union at 7:30 p.m.
(805) 643-3012; www.venturaartistsunion.org

Friday Evenings

Tapas at Tolosa

Tolosa Winery in San Luis Obispo offers delicious tapas from the Corner View Restaurant paired with four reserve wines from 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m., so bring your friends, sit back, and relax because the work week is officially over.
(805) 782.0500; www.tolosawinery.com

through may 2

Get Into Africa

The San Luis Obispo Children's Museum presents a brand new experience that will transport you into an Africian Serengeti village. Kids will love exploring the African market, mud hit, clay oven, indifenous costumes, and musical instruements. (805) 544-5437; www.slocm.org

Tuesday nights

Bingo

Old Mission San Miguel Parish Center hosts weekly bingo games, with doors opening at 4 p.m. Free door prizes, coffee, and cookies are available. Come join the fun! (805) 467-2131

back to top

Submit Your Event

If you have an upcoming event you want to share with our readers, please email your press releases with complete information, including date, time, address, ticket price, and phone number or website, to calendar@centralcoastmag.com.

You can also mail your information to:
Central Coast Magazine
391 Front Street, Suite F
Grover Beach, CA 93433

Information must be received by the following dates:
MAY/JUNE ISSUE: MARCH 20
JULY/AUGUST ISSUE: MAY 20

back to top