Mark your calendars for:
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Fairyland’s Annual Gala Costume Party: A Villain-thropic Evening
Thursday, June 5, 6:30-9:30PM
Children’s Fairyland, 699 Bellevue Avenue, Oakland
21+, see website below for ticket details
“They tell us we throw a mean party. This year, that’s literally true.
On Thursday, June 5, we’re going over to the dark side.
A Villain-thropic Evening, our 19th annual gala fundraising dinner, is a salute to the ogres, witches, trolls, wicked stepmothers, and all the other baddies without whom fairy tales
would be... meh.
Your presence isn’t just requested. It’s required.
Scary costumes. Shivery music. Food to die for. Our legendary storybook sets. All of it under the cold, glittering stars. (We’ll try to arrange for fog.)
Buy your tickets now. Or be very, very sorry.”
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San Francisco Ethnic Dance Festival
Saturday-Sunday, June 5-8, and each weekend through June
see website for detailed schedule
“An unparalleled series of inspiring performances is in store at the 36th annual San Francisco Ethnic Dance Festival, highlighting the rich cultural and artistic diversity of the Bay Area. This year’s Festival includes 10 world premieres, 16 Festival debuts, and features dances from Bali, Bolivia, China, Congo, Hawai'i, India, Lebanon, Mexico, Okinawa, Peru, the Philippines, South Africa, Syria, Tahiti, the continental United States, and West Africa. Each weekend’s program is a different lineup and includes nine to ten performances in a show, with numerous cross-cultural, collaborative, and transitional pieces.”
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DjangoFest
Friday-Sunday, June 6-8
Throckmorton Theatre, 142 Throckmorton Avenue, Mill Valley, 415-383-9600
see website for schedule and ticket details
“A three day festival of extraordinary musicians representing every facet of Gypsy Jazz music!
DjangoFest Mill Valley! Join us for an incredible array of talent - once again we are bringing the top Gypsy Jazz performers in for shows June 6-8, 2014. This year will feature the Robin Nolan Trio, the Hot Club d’Europe featuring Paulus Schafer, Olli Soikkeli and Tim Kliphuis, Pearl Django, Trio Dinicu and Rhythm Future Quartet. Join us for an exciting weekend of top performance in this musical field plus master workshops!”
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SCA West Kingdom Arts and Sciences Tourney
Friday-Sunday, June 6-8,
see website for schedule and admission details
Spring Valley Area, Ed Levin Park, 3100 Calaveras Road, Milpitas
“Come, challenge your friends and yourselves in an epic battle of skill, creativity and determination. A full course of competitions designed to test your mettle as an artist and crafter are set before you, and in the distance a golden blossom beckons. Who has the courage to step forward and lay their best works on the line?”
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The Flight Deck Opening Festival
Friday-Saturday, June 6-14
The Flight Deck, 1540 Broadway, Oakland
see website below for schedule and admission details
“The Flight Deck is a collaborative arts space and performance venue opening on June 6, 2014 in Downtown Oakland, where artists of all kinds and ages can work, play, collaborate, learn and thrive. A project of Ragged Wing Ensemble, it will be home to multiple artists and organizations, and will contribute to making Oakland a cultural destination.
We're excited to announce our Flight Deck Opening Festival, June 6-14, 2014. Starting with First Friday, It'll be a week of fantastic events, from performances and art installations to classes, panels, and parties.
We begin the week with a Grand Opening Party on Friday night, June 6, that will move between The Flight Deck, Latham Square, and Township. From 5:00-7:00PM, enjoy a free wine and cheese gallery opening reception. At 7:00PM, we move into Township for delicious food and drink and exciting pop-up performances, At 10:00PM, we open up both The Flight Deck and Township for a DJ dance party, guided art tours of the Flight Deck, and live music and performances in the Deck's different rooms. You can buy an All Festival Pass for the whole week (except the Opening Party, Gala, and After Juliet performances) for just $35!”
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3rd Annual Baroque Dance Workshop
with Philippa Waite
presented by San Francisco Renaissance Voices
Saturday, June 7, 8:30AM-6:00PM
Seventh Avenue Presbyterian Church, 1329 Seventh Avenue, San Francisco
see website for registration details
“We are delighted to once again host the internationally-renowned choreographer, performer and teacher of Baroque dance, Philippa Waite, for a Baroque Dance Workshop; this workshop is LOW-IMPACT and designed for both the novice and experienced dancer. Ms. Waite studied with Wendy Hilton and taught for her at the annual Baroque Music and Dance Workshops at Stanford University. Ms. Waite is currently guest teacher of Period Movement and Dance at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, Cardiff. She is Artistic Director of Consort de Danse Baroque and as such choreographs in the Baroque style for the company's productions; she also teaches, performs and gives lecture-demonstrations throughout the UK and abroad.
The morning workshop will include instruction in some of the more typical dance steps, and arm motions, used in the main Baroque dance rhythms: bouree, sarabande, gigue and menuet. The afternoon session will focus on using these steps in a choreographed dance. Experienced students will be taught more complex step variations, however, the emphasis will be on the style, technique and performance, and not on the ability to memorize them.
Schedule
8:30-9:00AM: Sign-in
9:00AM-12:30PM: Morning Session
The morning session will concentrate on the technique and style required for typical steps found in duple, triple and compound-duple time.
12:30-2:00PM: Lunch - Not provided; there are plenty of restaurants within walking distance - or bring your own; beverages will be provided
2:00-6:00PM: Afternoon Session
The afternoon session will concentrate on using the steps learnt, during the morning session, in a choreography. The workshop will include short demonstrations, given by Ms. Waite, to highlight some of the features of style and presentation covered in the workshop.
Spaces are limited - so early registration is encouraged!”
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Alameda Sand Castle and Sand Sculpture Contest
Saturday, June 7, 9:00AM-1:00PM
Robert Crown Memorial State Beach, Westline and Otis Drive, Alameda
“Start your creative juices flowing and get ready to bring your shovel and buckets to Robert Crown Memorial State Beach Park on Saturday, June 1 to create a unique piece of art at 47th the annual Sand Castle and Sand Sculpture Contest.
This free event is a fabulous family fun activity to either participate in or just come down to watch all of the action.
Categories for Sand Castle and Sand Sculpture are:
Ages 12 and Under
Ages 13 and Over
Family
Registration is from 9:00-11:00AM that morning at Robert Crown Beach.
Viewing and judging of the masterpieces begin at noon.
Awards presented at 1:00PM.”
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El Dia de San Juan Festival
Saturday, June 7, 11:00AM-7:00PM
History Park, 635 Phelan Avenue, San Jose
Adults $20 in advance, $30 at the door, Children under 12 Free
“El Dia de San Juan Festival is a cultural event hosted each year by the Western Region Puerto Rican Council.
This event brings together the Puerto Rican community, while uniting a host of diverse cultures and nationalities. Our main purpose is to raise scholarships funds for students who want to pursue a higher education.
We humbly invite you to this special event to enjoy what this festival has to offer in the way of music, food and family fun while showing your support to our cause. Our event is filled with exciting entertainment for the entire family. We offer a host of family fun, Live Bands, Authentic Puerto Rican Food, Main Stage and Youth Stage entertainment.
We look forward to seeing you to support our cause, socialize, eat, show off your dance moves and have a GREAT time!”
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Cob Oven Workshop!
with Miguel Elliott of Living Earth Structures
Saturday-Sunday, June 7-8, 9:00AM-5:00PM
Sonrisa Family Farm, 2454 East Washington Street, Petaluma
$120 for both days
“In this two day workshop, local earthen builder Miguel Elliott of Living Earth Structures will teach us the craft of building an adobe wood-fired oven.
On day one of the workshop, we will learn how to identify good earth for building, building a foundation, insulating the floor of the oven, laying the floor and building the inner thermal mass layer. An overview discussion of natural building will also be included.
On Day two, we will learn how to insulate our workshop oven, do the outer cob layer and decorative sculpting. Miguel will also cover how to plaster and waterproof the oven, take out the sand mold, and basics of cooking in the oven.
Bring a container of earth from your property to see how much sand you will need to add for your own oven construction and a design of your own to see how it can be integrated for your own Cob oven. All workshop participants will be invited to come back two weeks following this workshop to plaster the oven and to make sure that you have all the resources need to use this workshop as a launching point for making a Cob oven of your own.”
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Urban Farm Tours 2014
Saturday, June 7, 10:00AM-4:00PM
Berkeley and Oakland, addresses will be e-mailed to registered participants by June 3
see website below for registration details
Sunday, June 8, 11:00AM-4:00PM
Vallejo, addresses will be e-mailed to registered participants by June 3
see website below for registration details
“See what established home-scale urban farmers are up to and what is possible on a small. medium, large, or extra large urban lot.
You will see fruit and vegetable gardens, composting systems, rabbits, goats, bees, greywater and more, plus you will get to sample some of what these urban farmers are producing. Each homestead is unique in its interpretation and use of space. This will be a chance to ask questions about animals, gardening, techniques, greywater systems, rainwater harvesting, food forests, permaculture and more.
How it Works
If you are not already on our mailing list, use our contact form to tell us you want to come.
We'll send you the locations a week before the event.
Once you have the locations, plan your itinerary and bike, drive or walk yourself there.
Visit as many of the sites as you have time or interest for.
Guided tours with tasting and Q and A are led by the farmers once per hour on the hour. Each tour lasts about 45 minutes.
You can pay as you go at each site, or support the tour by paying in advance, allowing you entrance to all the sites.
Pay as you go option
$5 per person, per location. Kids under 12, $3. No one turned away for lack of funds.
This option lets you pay as you go and decide how many sites to visit on the spur of the moment. Visit one, two or all the sites if you can!. You may also purchase a day pass at the first site you visit. Cash and check only.
Purchase In advance option
This cash free option allows you to support the farmers and IUH with your generous donation. Pay full price for a ticket - or give a little more and get a day pass good for entry to all sites, plus a chance to win valuable door prizes!
Urban Farms Tours is a benefit for the Institute of Urban Homesteading and helps us to be able to offer a sliding scale tuition and free events during the year, as well as paying our teachers and farmers a fair hourly for their expertise. We do this with no outside funding or other contributions . As a way to thank you for your advance ticket purchase, with or without a little extra, we'll enter you in a drawing to win fun, farm-oriented door prizes from our farmers, including private tours, homegrown honey, eggs or nursery plants.”
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Valhalla Renaissance Faire
Saturday-Sunday, June 7-8,
10:00AM-6:00PM Saturday, 10:00AM-5:00PM Sunday
Camp Richardson’s Wood, 1900 Jameson Beach Road, South Lake Tahoe
Adults $18, ages 13-17, seniors and military $13, ages 6-12 $8, under 6 free
“Two weekends of fun and excitement for the whole family.
Rub elbows with nobility, immerse yourself in the Renaissance village, enjoy continuous entertainment in the streets provided by close to 900 costumed actors, action-packed stage shows, music, dancing, jesters, Shakespearean vignettes, expertly staged battles, storytelling, archery tournaments and much more.
First Weekend:
Scottish invasion! The first weekend is geared more toward younger audiences, with tons of shows, dancing, theater plays, music and magic for your whole family. Inspire your children to learn about Shakespeare or the Renaissance by dressing up for the weekend. Enter Costume contests, stroll through a maze, play tons of games meet the Queen and Shakespeare's characters from his stories, learn to sword fight, dance in the streets, watch some awesome theatre, and get drenched too at court of St. Aidens!
Second Weekend:
Pirate and Barbarian Hordes invade the festivities. Let loose and have a jolly good time while you participate in Scavenger Hunts, Costume contests, and a Talk Like a Pirate Competitions.”
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Butterfly and Bird Festival
Sunday, June 8, 10:00AM-3:30PM
Coyote Hills Regional Park, 8000 Patterson Ranch Road, Fremont
for more information, please call 510-544-3220
“Gardening for wildlife is a healthy activity that will do a world of good for your body and spirit. This special event is dedicated to increasing the numbers and species of butterflies and birds in Bay Area landscapes. Spend a day of adventure and learning that allows you to get close to nature’s flying critters. Enjoy garden tours, family hands-on activities, educational speakers, photo presentations and music. Learn how to bring your backyard to life by creating wildlife-friendly habitats! Parking fees apply where charged. Disabled accessible. No registration required; Drop-in program only.”
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The Blushing Orchid Ball
An annual fundraiser for Theatre Bay Area
Sunday, June 8, 4:00-8:00PM
Hyatt Regency, 5 Embarcadero Center, San Francisco
$60
"Black tie? Always in style, and certainly welcome here! But maybe you're a bit more colorful, you special flower, you. Well, this is the event for you!
Rock our signature color - ‘Blushing Orchid’
Dazzle with your snazziest formalwear or your favorite costume at our masquerade ball. Prizes awarded to the best dressed!
Celebrate 'til you're ‘blushing’!
Enjoy dancing (lessons included!), signature cocktails and savory snacks, a silent auction, and, at 5:00PM, a livestream of the Tony Awards!
Blush with pride - center stage!
Guests and honorees include civic leaders, philanthropists, audience members, backstage heroes and, of course, the theatre artists who make the Bay Area sparkle.
At the first annual Blushing Orchid Ball, we'll kick off the TBA Awards in style, and raise funds for Theatre Bay Area, the largest performing arts service organization in the nation. We've been causing a scene since 1976!”
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Breaking Code: Intersections of Queerness and Madness
Monday, June 9, 7:00PM
The San Francisco LGBT Center, 1800 Market Street, San Francisco
sliding scale $12-$20
“National Queer Arts Festival presents Breaking Code: Intersections of Queerness and Madness
Many of our communities have not yet embraced candid conversation about mental health; Breaking Code gathers Queer and Trans visual and performing artists seeking to claim the ways madness informs, complicates, and sweetens our lives. Together we will use the tools of reclamation and subversion, that many of us develop as we come to a queer identity, to rethink our relationship to mental health. As artists and community members, we will explore the ways queer and crazy have been forced together and forced apart. In this space of intersection we'll explore the differences in how we are assigned and how we experience madness and queerness. With power and vulnerability, we continue the legacy of resisting shame by claiming our wholeness.
Join us as we name and honor our joy, our struggle, and our resilience.”
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Teen Earth Magic
An intensive retreat for teens and young adults age 13-25
Tuesday-Sunday, June 10-15
Camp Epic, Nevada City, California
see website for detailed schedule and registration information
“Teen Earth Magic looks ahead to our seventh annual youth retreat in Northern California.
Camp is open to anyone who will be 13-19 anytime this year. Young adults age 19-25 can apply to be part of our Mentors Path.
For more information on this year's camp, contact us.
In mid-June in recent years, Teen Earth Magic has gathered in the woods of Northern California to deepen our relations with the Earth and with one another. Thirty young people and a half-dozen teachers came together last year at Camp Epic in wooded rolling hills near Nevada City (in the Sierra foothills).
Teen Earth Magic is an intensive magical and activist retreat taught in the Reclaiming tradition - a focused workshop that includes ritual, earth activist skills, labyrinth work, encounter groups, and a lot more. Be ready to laugh work, create, play, sing - maybe all at the same time.
Come together with other young people who care about the world. Folks from a number of communities around the Reclaiming network will be taking part. Group-building and trust exercises are part of our work, and we hope to create lasting connections.
Once again we'll pack in a week's worth of workshops and other activities, ranging from nightly rituals to personal transformation work to a swim in a local river or lake to discussions about political commitment.
These Reclaiming teens' retreats are organized by teachers from Witchlets in the Woods family camp, with the support of parents and site-owners.”
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Garden Fresh Luncheon at Gamble Garden
Wednesday, June 11, 12:00-1:30PM
Elizabeth F. Gamble Garden, 1431 Waverley Street, Palo Alto
$25
“Garden Fresh Luncheons are the perfect setting for your next birthday celebration, ladies lunch, lunch date, or book group.
Luncheons are followed by a complimentary docent led tour through the garden at 1:30PM.
Reservations are required for all luncheons, no cancellations, 60% of the cost is a donation. Sorry, we are not able to accommodate special dietary requests.
Please call the office to make your reservations: 650-329-1356.
A non-profit horticultural foundation in Palo Alto, south of San Francisco, Gamble Garden’s two and a half acre property includes formal and demonstration gardens, as well as an historic house, carriage house, and tea house.
The garden is free and open to the public every day.”
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BritWeek Festival
Friday-Saturday, June 13-21
see website for detailed schedule
Union Square, San Francisco
Free
“Get ready San Francisco, for the first annual BritWeek Festival presented by British Airways!
Join us at the iconic Union Square for a fun day out of British themed festivities. Sit back and enjoy the sunshine in our typical British beer garden, or browse through the Festival Village for British treats and souvenirs. Theatre, live music and other entertainment acts will be taking place on stage throughout the day. And don’t forget to send your friends a postcard, as British Airways transports you to London.
Check out what’s on the BritWeek Festival Village!
Fiona’s Sweet Shoppe
SF Teatime
Roxie Market
King Knish
Old Skool Cafe
Cable Car Clothier
Neil’s Yard Remedies
Alexander G Hair Salon
BritArt Gallery
American Conservatory Theatre
SF Playhouse
Dickens Fair
The BritWeek Festival is completely free for the public to attend.”
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Singing Our Bodies Awake!
a Day-Long Retreat for Women
with Betsy Rose and Jackie Long
Saturday, June 14, 10:00AM-4:30PM
Sacred Stream Center, 2149 Byron Street, Berkeley
suggested donation $120
“Greetings All! Come renew your spirit, heart and body with the magic of women making music together, sharing the practice of mindfulness through yoga, sound, and improvisation.”
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Dia de Portugal
Saturday, June 14, 10:00AM-6:00PM
History Park, 635 Phelan Avenue, San Jose
Free
“In June, Americans of Portuguese heritage join together with others throughout the world in a celebration of Portuguese culture - Dia de Portugal, de Camoes e das Comunidades Portuguesas. On the second Saturday of the month, the Portuguese Heritage Society of California hosts its Dia de Portugal Festival. Enjoy a day of entertainment, savor a variety of Portuguese foods and watch a traditional Portuguese parade - there’s enjoyment for the entire family. It all takes place at History Park San Jose, location of the Portuguese Historical Museum.”
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The 2nd Annual Herbal Medicine and Then Some Fair
Saturday, June 14, 11:00AM-3:00PM
Homestead Apothecary, 486 49th Street, #C, Oakland, 510-495-6549
Free
“Last year’s fair was such a blast we are hosting it again! You'll see some of your favorite makers and practitioners here this year, but mostly all new folks. Plus Hopothecary, the much anticipated collaboration between Calicraft and Homestead Apothecary, will be making its debut for all you herbal beer lovers out there!
Check out the amazing group we're hosting below:
Ancestral Apothecary
Grateful Body
Bee Healthy Honey
Urban Comfort Acupuncture
Sojourn Wellness
Holy Sponge!
Builders of the New Dawn
Strong Arm Farm
Taproot Medicine
Sister Spinster
By Nieves
Eye of Crow Herbs
Herbalish
Tarot Readings by Yeshe Rabbit of Sacred Well
Adee Roberson Massage
The Homestead Apothecary Nursery
NonProfit:
Berkeley Seed Library
The Mobile Herb Clinic
Food and Drink Vendors:
Phat Beets
Calicraft
The Living Apothecary
Kaleidoscope Nourishing Foods”
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Live Oak Park Fair
Saturday-Sunday, June 14-15, 10:00AM-6:00PM
Live Oak Park, 1301 Shattuck Avenue, Berkeley
Free
“Come and Celebrate Creativity and Community at this Family-Friendly Fair!
A cornerstone of the vibrant North Berkeley art and crafts community, the Live Oak Park Fair showcases affordable contemporary art, fine crafts, handcrafted jewelry and accessories, couture adult and kids’ clothing, handmade quilts and baskets, plus sculptural and functional objects in clay, fiber, glass, metal and wood. Plus, kid-friendly entertainment all day including live music, magic shows, puppets, and face painting. Excellent food purveyors and for the first time this year, samplings and tastings of edibles and body products. Enjoy all the delights among the heritage oaks and redwoods and alongside the charming Codornices Creek. No cost to attend. You can catch a free shuttle from the North Berkeley BART Station every half hour from 10:00AM to 6:00PM both days.”
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Pirate Festival
Saturday-Sunday, June 14-15, 10:00AM-6:00PM
Vallejo Waterfront, next to Vallejo Ferry Terminal, 289 Mare Island Way, Vallejo
$10 at the gate, Children under 12 Free
"The Northern California Pirate Festival has one goal:
To create an entertaining event where everyone who loves pirates will have a great time and feel welcome!
Whether you love nautical music, swordfighting, sailing, cannon-battles, theater, maritime crafts, food and drink, or just shopping fer' pirate booty... there's something here for YOU!
Fun For ALL AGES: Children, Adults, Teens and Whole Families!
We encourage coming out in costume... whether you dress as an historical era pirate from the Golden Age of Sail or a bejeweled Mardi-Gras Krewmate from New Orleans... whether your taste runs towards Hollywood Swashbucklers or Foreign Buccaneers from international waters! Dress up and share in the experience...
You certainly don't need to come out in costume, but when you leave you're sure to feel like a pirate!
Sail out to the PirateFest and join us for a great time!"
CAYA Sprouts will be at the Pirate Festival on Sunday, June 15!
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SF Juneteenth Festival
Saturday-Sunday, June 14-15, 11:00AM-6:00PM
see website for detailed schedule of events and locations
Free
“Juneteenth is the oldest known celebration among African Americans across the country commemorating the announcement of the end of slavery in the United States. It has been an African American tradition since the late 19th century. Economic and cultural forces caused a decline in Juneteenth celebrations beginning in the early 20th century. The Depression forced many African Americans off farms and into the cities to find work. In these urban environments, employers were less eager to grant leaves to celebrate this date. July 4th was already established as an Independence Day Holiday, and a rise in patriotism among African Americans steered more toward this celebration.
The Civil Rights movement of the 1950s and 1960s yielded both positive and negative results for the Juneteenth celebrations. While it pulled many of the African American youth away and into the struggle for racial equality, many linked these struggles to the historical struggles of their ancestors.
Again in 1968, Juneteenth received another strong resurgence through the Poor Peoples March to Washington, D.C. Rev. Ralph Abernathy called for people of all races, creeds, economic levels and professions to come to Washington to show support for the poor. Many of these attendees returned home and initiated Juneteenth celebrations in areas previously absent of such activity. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s Juneteenth continued to enjoy a growing interest from communities and organizations throughout the country as African Americans have an interest to see that the events of 1865 in Texas are not forgotten. Many see roots tying back to Texas soil from which all remaining American slaves were finally granted their freedom.
This year marks the 150th Anniversary of the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation by former President Abraham Lincoln on January 01, 1863. It also marks the 50th Anniversaries of the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom (August 28, 1963) where Dr. Martin Luther King gave his famous “I Have a Dream” speech; the assassination of Medgar Evers, the NAACP’s 1st National Field Director in Mississippi (June 12, 1963); and the letter from Birmingham Jail (April 16, 1963) written by Dr. Martin Luther King.”
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Fairfax Festival
Saturday-Sunday, June 14-15, 11:00AM-6:00PM,
Parade on Saturday at 10:00AM
Bolinas Park, 78 Bolinas Road and Peri Park, 40 Park Road, Fairfax
“Proudly Announcing 2014 Grand Marshal: Phyllis Gould - aka Rosie the Riveter!
Welcome to the 37th annual Fairfax Festival, Marin’s premier community celebration. The Fairfax Festival embodies the values that are dear to all Marinites: community, family, social responsibility, sustainability and, of course, a great party.
It kicks off with a Family Film Night in the Ballfield on Friday night, June 13 at 8:00PM. Join us for the parade at 10:00AM on Saturday, then enjoy two days of celebrating the good things in life and in Fairfax. Hear great local music at three stages, shop for crafts and flea market treasures, enjoy fresh, wholesome food, organic wine tasting, entertain the kids in our expanded children’s area, and ponder social and environmental issues at the Ecofest.
The Festival offers something for everyone who attends. The Festival is put on by a volunteers group of your friends and neighbors. We take special pride in being a 100% volunteer group (no outside promoter needed). So come enjoy our hometown event, and be sure to support your local craftspeople, artists, flea marketers, breweries, and food purveyors.”
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Hats Off to Dad at Roaring Camp
Sunday, June 15
Roaring Camp Railroads, 5401 Graham Hill Road, Felton, 831-335-4484
see website for schedule admission details
“Salute Dad on Father's Day by treating him to a ride on a steam train and then tuck into an old-fashioned Chuck Wagon BBQ platter. Each dad will receive an engineer's cap and one dad will be selected to go on a cab ride in the locomotive!”
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Berkeley Juneteenth Festival
Sunday, June 15, 10:00AM-6:00PM
South Berkeley’s five-block Alcatraz-Adeline corridor
Free
“The Berkeley Juneteenth Festival is free and open to the public. Family entertainment is the focus of all Berkeley Juneteenth Festivals, and no alcohol and tobacco sales or sponsorships are allowed.
The RD Bonds Main Stage is the heart of Juneteenth-in-Berkeley. The music incorporates the best of the African American experience: African drumming, jazz, blues, neo-soul, gospel, rhythm and blues, and reggae. Local talents, like John Handy, Faye Carol and Pharoah Sanders have graced our stage, but the BJF is a vehicle for showcasing 'up and coming acts', providing them with an opportunity to show their talents.
The Lothario Lotho Community Stage features specialty performances like dance, spoken word, fashion, as well as local talent. Auditions are held 60 days prior to the Festival.
Health Fair: Alameda County health agencies offer informational workshops and health screenings.
Two On Two Basketball Tourney provides wholesome, physical competition on event day.
Historical Exhibits includes exhibits featuring a collaboration of presenters.
Art For Children programs and for-fun activities which are coordinated by practicing artists.
The Vision Magazine is a BJF souvenir publication sold on Festival day that features highlights about the performers and artists, and stories pertinent to the community.”
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Fathers Day Pig Roast at Tara Firma Farm
Sunday, June 15, 3:00-7:00PM
Tara Firma Farm, 3796 I Street, Petaluma
$40 per adult, Children 12 and under Free
“Come join us for a Father's Day Pig roast! We'll be roasting pigs and barbecuing all day. Bring your friends and family for a celebration with good eats, great pork, music and tours.
Come join us for a Fathers Day Pig roast! We'll be roasting pigs and barbecuing all day. Bring your friends and family for a celebration with good eats, great pork, music and tours.
Bring a side dish to share along with your own plates and utensils. Kids 12 and under Free!
Tara Firma Farms is a sustainable, farm producing food that connects the community to each other. In 2009, we set off on a mission to create a source of food produced with the highest integrity and to allow the people who consume our food full access to our farm. From the inception we have offered FREE weekend tours, providing education to the public. This allows the community to learn where their food comes from, how they can be accountable in the process, choosing between conventional, organic or local and knowing all the differences to make educated decisions. By including our customers, it keeps us accountable to produce the highest quality food in the most sustainable and ecologically sound way.”
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Great Train Robberies at Roaring Camp
Sunday, June 15,
and Saturday-Sunday, July 5-6, Saturday-Monday, August 30-September 1
Roaring Camp Railroads, 5401 Graham Hill Road, Felton, 831-335-4484
see website for schedule admission details
“Witness shootouts between famed lawmen and notorious outlaws from the 1880s aboard the Redwood Forest Train to Bear Mountain. See why the West was wild!!”
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Day of the African Child
Monday, June 16
“Take action on June 16 in support of global education.
In June, thousands of people across the world will mobilise in support of the Nigerian girls of Chibok (#BringBackOurGirls), safe schools, and the right of every child to go to school. You can be part of this mobilisation by hosting an event and mobilising your community on Day of the African Child on June 16.
We have everything you need to organise an event in honour of Day of the African Child and in support of the Chibok Girls and safe schools for every child.
Here’s what you need to do:
Download the action tools and build a team - we have all of the information and tools you need to plan an event.
Create or join an event in your community or school. Our map shows you the events taking place across the globe.
Join the online conversation: Follow us on our Facebook and Twitter pages for the latest updates and ask others to join! Take photos and/or videos of the event planning with you and your friends and tweet why education is important to you using these hashtags: #BringBackOurGirls #SafeSchools #AfricanChildDay #EducationCountdown
Donate to the Safe Schools Fund - Can't attend an event? You can support the Safe School Initiative and help make safe education a reality in northern Nigeria.
This is just the beginning. The June mobilisation leads up to the 500-Day Countdown Campaign to get every child to school.
So, this June, organise a youth takeover event in honour of Day of the African Child. You can register your own event or see if an event is taking place near you.”
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Santa Cruz Starlight Evening Train at Roaring Camp
Saturday, June 21, 8:00PM,
and two more Saturdays, July 19 and August 16
Train departs from Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, 400 Beach Street, Santa Cruz
see website for ticket details
“Experience the beauty of an ancient Redwood Forest lit up at night from Pullman-like coaches and open-air excursion cars of the Santa Cruz, Big Trees and Pacific Railway. Smell the aroma of Redwoods, Pines, Tan Oaks and Madrone trees while traveling under the stars. Evening trains depart from and return to the Boardwalk in Santa Cruz for a leisurely two-hour round-trip along the San Lorenzo River Gorge and Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park.”
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Solaris
Thursday-Sunday, June 18-21
Earth Matters Retreat Center, 11629 Love Creek Road, Ben Lomond
see website for detailed schedule and registration information
“Solaris is a 4 day, 3 night camping festival in the forested mountains of Ben Lomond. There are playshops each day and rituals each night. The small size and inclusive nature of the activities leads to a wonderful sense of Tribal affinity.
HEAR YE! HEAR YE!!
Hello Nature Lovers. Mark your calendars for the weekend of June 18th-21st, 2014 and get the days off work now: Solaris is back for another long, leisurely weekend of Deep Play and Spiritual Joy.
Two-tracks of playshops: A more meditative track and a more energetic one.
Our Grand Poobah this year will be the alluring alliterative Alisa.
The Thursday Tea Party returns! Bring your hat!
Clothing Optional camping.
Morning gourmet pancakes from the Chef Without Pants.
A community ritual presented on the day we all write it as a group.
The entertaining and moving evening Bardic.
Snaps. Hundreds and hundreds of Snaps.
The wood-fired hot tub.
Jigsaw puzzling, dancing, lounging, laughing and on and on.”
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Topsy-Turvy Queer Circus: Visions. Are. Legendary
presented by National Queer Arts Festival
Friday-Saturday, June 20-21,
Friday 8:00PM, Saturday 2:00PM and 8:00PM
Brava Theater, 2781 24th Street, San Francisco
see website for ticket details
“Spin your world upside-down with Topsy-Turvy Queer Circus! This one-of-a-kind event is back for a second year of mesmerizing performances that showcase awe-inspiring circus artists from across the country. Hosted by Honey Mahogany from RuPaul's Drag Race, Topsy-Turvy dazzles, delights, and defies expectations with this year's show Visions. Are. Legendary.
Topsy-Turvy's geographically and culturally diverse cast of queer, trans*, and gender-variant performers use their bodies to tell unique stories that subvert traditional ideals of beauty, sexuality, and power in circus arts. Building upon the Bay Area's rich history of dance, burlesque, drag, and performance art, Topsy-Turvy provides financially accessible, physically inspiring theater that pushes the boundaries of contemporary circus artistic expression.
Last year's event was a sell-out success as the first all-queer circus show in San Francisco, so be sure to get your tickets early!”
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California Sunrise Summer Solstice
with Quercus Seed
Saturday, June 21, Gather 5:00AM, Ritual starts 5:30AM, Sunrise about 5:47AM
Inspiration Point, Tilden Park, Berkeley
Donations accepted
“Celebrate Summer Solstice with the Druids Druid-style.
There is plenty of parking. Differently-abled accessible.
All donations will be gratefully received. We are collecting for the charity Trees for Life.
Hosted by Quercus, Redwood and Doire Bhrighid Seed Groups, with the Order of the Bards, Ovates and Druids.”
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Herbal Medicine Mama
with Nourished: Urban Retreats
Saturday, June 21, 10:00AM-1:00PM
Terra's Temple, 3051 Adeline Street, Berkeley
suggested donation $25-$100
“In this retreat, you will connect with mamas and learn to make herbal remedies for your family. We will indulge with foods that nourish and teach you how to make herb infused oils, salves and ghee.
Babies in arms welcome.”
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Dancin' on the Avenue
Saturday, June 21, 2:00-8:00PM
along Lincoln Avenue from Willow Street to Minnesota Avenue, San Jose,
(ie the Willow Glen neighbourhood)
Free
“The 19th Annual Dancin' on the Avenue will be held on Saturday, June 21 from 2:00-8:00PM on Lincoln Avenue between Minnesota and Willow.
Here are a few of the event highlights:
Three stages - the Main Stage at 1202 Lincoln, the Sereno Group Stage at Lincoln and Willow, and the Peak Travel Stage at Lincoln and Minnesota - will feature an eclectic mix of live music and entertainment.
The Round Table Pizza Community Stage will present performances from local dance groups.
The Kids’ Court area will have a petting zoo, a balloon artist, face-painting, games and crafts for the family-friendliest part of the festival.
Food and Beverages
Dozens of great food and beverage booths will be located throughout the festival. Please note that beverage tickets will be sold on-site at the festival only this year. Anyone consuming alcohol must have a valid ID.
Admission
Admission to Dancin' on the Avenue is free, however security entries will be at the two monitored entrances at Willow and at Minnesota, where purses/backpacks will be checked. No outside containers of any kind - even coffee cups - will be allowed in.”
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Garden of Memory
Friday, June 21, 5:00-9:00PM
Chapel of the Chimes, 4499 Piedmont Avenue, Oakland
$15
“A columbarium walk-through event at the Chapel of the Chimes.
At this annual solstice concert, the program features simultaneous performances in different parts of the building by Bay Area composers, musicians, and other performers presenting a variety of acoustic and electronic music, installations, and interactive events; the audience is free to move throughout the building during the performances.
Guests are invited to walk through the multi-level maze of internal gardens, cloisters, alcoves, stairwells, fountains and other architectural elements, which rise into vaulted ceilings. The facility's numerous chapels, columbaria, and mausoleum areas are adorned with antiquities that date back to the 16th century. All architectural and garden areas have excellent acoustics and are illuminated by gentle natural light, often through beautiful arrangements of stained glass.
Garden of Memory offers a unique and personal musical experience to every listener as he or she wanders freely through this multi-level maze of interior gardens, alcoves, pools, and antechambers ingeniously designed by Julia Morgan.
Please note the building is only partially handicap accessible: The lower floor which has two chapels will have constant performances, and the top floor at the Howe Street entrance with multiple rooms. There is an elevator between the two floors, but it requires going outside through a separate building. The middle floors are not accessible, unfortunately.
There are two entrances - the main one is on Piedmont Avenue and the other is up above on Howe Street. Plentiful free parking is available in the adjacent cemetery. Please note that the gates will close at dusk - entry only allowed before then - but the gate is automatic and will allow cars to leave after dark.
There will be two concession tables selling food for outside consumption only.”
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Felted Vest Workshop
with Katharine Jolda
Friday-Saturday, June 21-22, 10:00AM-5:00PM
Bodega Pastures, Bodega, RSVP for address
$265, including materials, camping and two meals.
“Felted vest-making workshop with guest singers from Kitka
In this two-day workshop, you will make for yourself a customized and stylish felt vest from Bodega Pastures’ finest sheep’s wool.
Day 1: Size and design the patterns, card the wool on the Cyclocarder, meet and greet the sheep! Continuing the ancient tradition of singing while working, members of Kitka, the world-famous women’s vocal ensemble, will bring folk songs from Eastern Europe.
Day 2: Felting and decorating the vests. Plus, a small natural dye project for embellishment.
Camping is accommodated on site, and a full dinner and breakfast will be provided. The setting is rustic, but wheelchair accessible.
Instructor Katharine Ellen Jolda is the artisan behind Felt the Sun, a collection of felt apparel made from Navajo and Bay Area wool, and understands her felt practice as a creative form of ‘direct action’ that builds reciprocal and honorable relationships to serve practical needs.
Read more about Katharine in the blog post Mother of Invention on the Fibershed blog.
Bodega Pastures is a 1200-acre ranch in the hills surrounding Salmon Creek, just outside of the town of Bodega. Since the 1960s, several families have collaborated as stewards of the land, running about 300 sheep, and offering a Waldorf-inspired pre-school for children in the area.”
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San Francisco Free Folk Festival
Saturday-Sunday, June 21-22, 12:00-10:00PM
Presidio Middle School, 450 30th Avenue, San Francisco
Free
“The festival is two full days of music and dance workshops, concerts, dance parties, crafts, vendors, formal and informal music-making, and just plain fun for the whole family. All ages and musical interests are welcome. All events and workshops are open to anyone who wants to drop in and participate or just listen. And did we mention that admission is free?”
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Nature and Soul Retreat for Summer Solstice
with Jan Edl Stein, MFT
Sunday, June 22, 9:30AM-4:00PM
Green Gulch Farm and Zen Center, 1601 Shoreline Highway, Muir Beach, 415-383-3134
see website for registration details
“Nature and Soul: A day of retreat where nature mirrors our inner landscape
This seasonally offered retreat is a day of renewal and rediscovery, as we open ourselves to the land around us in addition to the landscapes within us. This is a deeply experiential daylong retreat for restoration of health, psyche and spirit, offering a renewal of the soul's intention and a re-connection with the elements of nature that support us. We will slow down and take in the beauty that surrounds us and let nature reflect the shapes and patterns that are held in the psyche.
The day is a combination of indoor experiences that involves guided meditation and inner journey process and outdoor, land-based contemplative practices. The experience as a whole is an embodied example of eco-therapy. Each retreat day reflects themes of the season in the meditations, journeys and our approach to the elements we discover in nature.
No previous experience is necessary.
With the Summer Solstice, we take note of all that is blossoming within and without, give gratitude for the fullness of our lives, and allow ourselves to dream in the richness of nature.
The retreat takes place in the beautiful setting of Green Gulch Farm and Zen Center, with its splendid coastal range flora, meandering gardens, Japanese architecture, and easy walk to the beach. An organic, vegetarian lunch (included in registration fee) is offered to the group in the dining hall. Retreat fees include lunch and refreshments.
Details on how to prepare for the day an a confirmation of registration will be sent one week before the event.
Retreat leader, Jan Edl Stein MFT, is the director of Holos Institute and a licensed psychotherapist with many years of experience in guiding people into deep explorations in their own psyche as they open to deeper levels of perception in the natural world.”
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Open Gardens Day at Hallberg Butterfly Gardens
Sunday, June 22, 10:00AM-4:00PM
Hallberg Butterfly Gardens, 8687 Oak Grove Avenue, Sebastopol, 707-823-3420
Free
“Annual Open Gardens Celebration
It's our 17th anniversary! Come celebrate with us...
Free! No Reservations Needed!
Children’s activities
Wildflower display
Walking tours
Bird and butterfly sightings
Plants, books, and crafts for sale
Our annual Open Gardens Day draws hundreds of visitors from near and far. People come to learn what they can do to protect and enhance habitat for butterflies, to buy plants, and to enjoy a sense of Sonoma County's rich agricultural history. It is a special community event, made possible by many volunteer hours, that brings together a wide variety of people with a passion for natural history.”
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Berkeley World Music Festival
Sunday, June 22, 12:00-9:00PM, see website for schedule details
performances in various locations in Berkeley - see website for details
“The assembled artists will again offer you a stunning show!
From People's Park headlining acts: Pride and Joy's electrifying Motown and Soul, Manzo Rally's New Latin Rock and AfroFunk Experience to special festival finale Georges Lammam with special guest, Naser Musa presenting Khaliji, these music of Eastern Arabia and throughout the day, a dazzling display of Eastern Europe and Norteno polka, electric sarode, World Fusion, Brazilian choro, Belly Dance Bazaar, Dixieland Jazz, even Trans-atlantic Chamber music and more live music to be announced....
Stay tuned for complete line-up bios, and other festival updates.
For eleven years the Berkeley World Music Festival has been celebrating the rich diversity of the San Francisco Bay Area's world music scene.
Come celebrate Summer Solstice on Sunday, June 22, 2014 for a full day of live concerts that will surprise your musical palate and take you on a musical journey around the world and back.
All performances are free to the public!”
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Summer Solstice Dreaming Despacho and Fire Ceremony
Sunday, June 22, 2:00-7:30PM
Sonoma location, address given upon registration
Donations accepted
“Join us in creating a Dreaming Despacho.
Add your dreams - for the earth and your own path - to help them manifest...
We gather for this ceremony in honor of the Solstice, our longest day of light...
We will meet in our Medicine Wheel portal, on private land at the base of Sonoma Mountain at 2:00PM on Sunday, June 22. We will feed the power of the despacho with our personal and collective intent, receive its sweet blessing, and offer it to the fire, sending our dreams and prayers out to the cosmos in the smoke of transmutation. Afterwards, we’ll share a potluck meal and revel in the beauty surrounding us, finishing about 7:30PM.
A ceremony is a way of bridging, and making connection outside of our small groups, our small worlds. Ceremony lets us experience the power of focused energy, the power of group, and the joy of shared intent.
This contemporary despacho will follow traditional Andean form, ingredients, and intent, and Eagle-of-the-North practices for group engagement, connection, and focus. No prior experience necessary (and if you have it, bring it!) Creating this ceremony in reciprocity is a wonderful way of focusing intent, giving back to the Earth and spirits, and being together. And in gifting our dreaming, we align with a different story, shift our perceptions, and help create the world we want to live in.
To prepare: Try using the phrase ‘I see a world… full of harmony’ (for example) as you decide which dreams you want to bring to the offering. Reflect also on your three power centers of belly, heart, and third eye, and how they might relate to your dreams and intent.
Bring: two small burnable objects that symbolize your dreams for the earth and yourself; one ribbon about 12 inches long, representing your path into the future; water; a chair if you need one; layers for sun and wind; hat; potluck dish to share for dinner; and a donation, which will go to Sonoma Mountain Preservation.
Note: It is important for your completion that you stay for the fire ceremony.
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Yoni Puja Festival
presented by SHARANYA
Sunday, June 22, 3:30PM-8:00PM
Cultural Integration Fellowship, 2650 Fulton Street, San Francisco
“Be with us in a devotional and celebratory festival dedicated to Mahadevi, Great Goddess, and Her most powerful manifestations through the Ten Great Insights, the Most Transparent Revelations of Consciousness, during the auspicious time of abundance in the cycle of life, death, and rebirth… the time when Devi, Goddess, bleeds.
Often, the connection between the power of women’s blood and the paradoxical mystery of the Goddess is most fully recognized in the Crone or Dark Goddess aspect of the Divine because She is the doorway between the worlds of life and death. It is the raudra devis (fierce goddesses) who, in India, are said to menstruate. In temples dedicated to these intense emanations of shakti (the feminine force), one finds the rites and rituals of the goddess’ ritu, or menstrual blood.
At SHARANYA, we hold this space for Her and for all beings seeking peace, healing, truth and wholeness. During this time, we recognize the power of Her most holy festival of Ambuvaci - the three days the goddess menstruates (beginning on the new moon usually following Summer Solstice) - when the forces of life and death co-join at the temple of Kamakhya in northeastern India, birthplace of Tantra and a heartland today of goddess worship.
We also hold space during our ceremony for the energies of the Summer Solstice and the beauty expressed through Lingam Puja. Join to enter consciously into a sacred dance. Join us this year as we honor fathers, fatherhood, and the masculine birthed from out of pathology into a strong embrace… into a hieros unios, a sacred integral union.
We invite you to our Yoni Puja in anticipation of the unfolding Mystery! Come share your prayers and devotions with us!
In our Yoni Puja, we recognize that Her potency is so wild and intense, so sweet and sublime, that whether seen as fierce or mild She is a force offering both comfort and strength… even in our moments of silence and despair. We invite you to be with us. Open in the safe space of our temple to the paradox held in the quiet and the song in order to receive her lessons, as well as Her blessings, during this most auspicious time.”
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Terra's Temple Presents The 13 13 13 Raise The Roof Fundraiser!
Sunday, June 22, 5:00-8:30PM
Terra’s Temple, 3051 Adeline Street, Berkeley, 510-529-4224
Donations welcome
“A celebration of the Summer Solstice! Join us for sacred play on Solstice!
Please join us on Sunday, June 22, to raise the roof and raise some funds for Terra’s Temple. We are raising $13,131.30 to fund the our new admin position and pay for the extended costs of opening our new space.The funds raised will help us thrive in our new space. Doors open at 5:00PM, ritual and performances start at 5:30PM and go until 8:30PM. A live auction will be hosted throughout the evening.
Snacks and beverages will be served.
Hosted by MC Treasure Chest
Please RSVP to our Facebook event:
Join us for a playfully sacred evening at the Temple!
If you cannot attend, please consider contributing to the 13 13 13 Raise The Roof Campaign by following the link below:
Many Thanks! We hope to see you on the 22nd!”
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Honeyroot Women’s Embodiment Retreat
Thursday-Sunday, June 26-29
Shady Creek Retreat Center, 18601 Pathfinder Way, Nevada City, CA
see website for registration details
“HoneyRoot Women’s Embodiment Retreat is an annual celebration of Fem-bodiment, Sisterhood, and Intergenerational Collaboration - a place to explore, expand, and truly inhabit ourselves as women; a (re)treat for the Feminine Soul.
Located among the pines, oaks, and maples of Shady Creek Retreat Center near Nevada City, CA, HoneyRoot provides opportunities for us to open our bodies to the wisdom that lives inside each of us and the love that inhabits our collective heart. Through an array of dance, voice, and movement workshops, healing ceremonies, performances, playtime, down time, and up time, we will taste the Yes that lives in our bodies and our interconnectedness. Also enjoy quiet time by the pool and incredible food!
Maidens’ Initiatory Journey: Thursday, June 26
Wise Women’s Elders Counsel: Thursday, June 26
All Women’s Annual Retreat: Thursday, June 26-Sunday, June 29”
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Kate Wolf Music Festival
Friday-Sunday, June 27-29
Black Oak Ranch, 50350 Highway 101, Laytonville
see website for schedule and ticket details
“The annual Kate Wolf Music Festival is a wonderful place to relax and enjoy a great weekend with friends, family and lovers of fabulous music. Black Oak Ranch, the Mendocino home to the Hog Farm and Camp Winnarainbow - a circus camp for kids, is three hours north of San Francisco.
Festival Features:
Four stages of Music on 150 acres
Beautiful On Site Camping In Old Growth Oak Trees
Workshops
Kids’ Area
Hatha Yoga and Tai-Chi
Music Jamming Area
Flowing creek
Hobo Jungle”
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Fairy and Human Relations Congress
Communication and Co-Creation with Devas, Nature Spirits and the Faery Realms
Friday-Sunday, June 27-29
Skalitude Retreat, Twisp, Washington
See website for registration details
Bring your Fairy friends from home with you:
"The Fairy and Human Relations Congress affects the planet by joining with the nature, devic and other higher realms to bring more peace, love and understanding into the world. Our goal is not to escape the outer world but to positively affect it. At this time of multiple crises affecting humanity we feel it is very important to seek alliances with as many light forces as possible in other realms. Mother Earth and the fairy realms ARE big players in what is transpiring on the planet. Though many deny their existence, the numbers of people who are tuning into the spiritual realms and to the nature spirit/fairy/devic realms is increasing by leaps and bounds. The Congress is one of the vanguard events bringing these people together. We are not a frivolous event although we do have lots of fun and costume up. Our intent is communication and cooperation, not only for our personal selves, but for all of humanity. We are allying ourselves with Mother Earth and with the forces for peace and love on planet Earth.
Presence in Unity: Co-Creation and Deep Soul Nourishment
Fairy Congress 2014 is already heating up! We had a stellar Council retreat in October as we journeyed to reveal the Theme for this coming year. Were we ever surprised!
Last year our October journey for the theme was explosive: with tornados, hurricanes, lightning storms and cataclysmic change. We discovered the power of connection, the amazing igniting forces that are unleashed for creation when we truly connect with one another…
So this year we were quite startled as we were brought to our knees with the profound SIGHHHHH of Arrival - that moment when you know deeply that you are connected to another and that the connection is forever. This year’s theme is a very still place, a place of listening intently so as to truly integrate the communication coming to you, and to truly feel in your deepest heart the oneness of being in the present moment together, exchanging - uniting - seeing - being together.
This nature is asking us to explore - in our relationships with our ally-friends and with each other.
Thus our theme: Presence in Unity: Co-Creation and Deep Soul Nourishment.
Deep Soul Nourishment…
Beautiful, is it not? Sighhhhhhh...
The energy is already growing strong. It’s going to be an amazing year…”
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Scofield’s Cowboy Campfire
Saturday, June 28, 6:00-10:00PM, and seven more Saturdays - see dates below
Red Mule Ranch, Fiddletown (East of Sacramento, in the Gold Country)
directions given upon registration
$45 includes dinner and entertainment
“Scofield’s Cowboy Campfire
Old West Music, Cowboy Poetry, Chuckwagon Dinner
Ron and Marie Scofield are your hosts for an evening of old-time cowcamp entertainment under the stars at the Red Mule Ranch in Fiddletown, California. Enjoy a chuck wagon tri-tip dinner and cowboy music, poetry, and story telling in an 1880s setting. In addition to Ron's traditional brand of old cowboy standards, special guest performers contribute their unique style of western wit, wisdom, satire, and song.
Dinner is served at 6:30PM. Entertainment begins at 7:30PM with a break for intermission and dessert. After lots of music and poetry, it's ‘Happy Trails’ around 10:00PM.
Dates for 2014:
June 28: Sourdough Slim and Robert Armstrong
July 12 - Dave Stamey
July 19 - Old West Trio and Ron and Gary Scofield
August 2 - Riverbend Folk Band
August 9 - Pipp Gillette and Jim and Karen Ross
August 16 - Juni Fisher and Jim King
August 23 - Old West Trio and Pat Richardson
September 6 - Old West Trio and Mark Twain (MacAvoy Layne)”
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All Night Stargazing
with Stargazer Li
Saturday, June 28, 6:30PM-7:30AM (the following morning)
$180, adults only
see website for registration details
“Once or twice year, I lead an All Night Stargazing experience. We watch the entire sky turning in real-time, from sundown through sunrise. These thrilling events almost always sell out.
Come learn nearly the entire starry sky in one night!
We’ll gather before sunset to learn the horizon calendar, then throughout the night in a field under the stars, guided by the visible beam of a green laser, you’ll see and learn the patterns and movements of the constellations, including most of the zodiac and some of the lunar mansions, many of the planets, and folklore from different times and cultures, all the while directly seeing the story that’s unfolding at this time, dosing with planetary essences and essence elixirs, and dancing deeply with the cosmos…
This night will change your relationship with the starry night sky forever!
This evening is especially for those who have experienced a night under the sky with Stargazer Li before, so we can go even deeper into connection with the cosmos, but it is open to first time stargazers who want an immersion experience.
Adults only, no kids this time.
There will be tea and potluck snacks through the night, and light breakfast as an option the next morning. You can stay over on Sunday to sleep before heading out by late afternoon if you’d like. Directions will be emailed to registered participants.
This event usually sells out, so sign up soon if you’re wanting to attend…
To register (or get on the waiting list):
1) Email me info@stargazerli.com with the names and email addresses of the people that will be attending, in how many cars, and where you’re coming from. Also, let me know how you are connected to me, and if you’ve stargazed with me before.
2) Once I let you know there’s room. Pay a deposit of $60 per participant to hold your spot.
Refunds of your deposit(s), minus a $5 processing fee, can be obtained through June 23, 2014.
TOTAL COST for the event: $180 person ($120 person - low income)
Balance due upon arrival the evening of the event.
If the night gets clouded out, in all or part, there will be a pro-rated refund.
Join me for this once in a lifetime opportunity to deeply engage with the universe!”
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Godzilla Night
Saturday, June 28, 7:00PM
The Historic Bal Theatre, 14808 East 14th Street, San Leandro
Adults $14.99, Children $9.99
“Godzilla Night 3 is a celebration of everything Godzilla. Join us for our third annual Godzilla Event. Films Prizes and Special Guests. For the 60th anniversary of The Big G, Bay Area Film Events and the Historic BAL Theatre are throwing the King of the Monsters a big birthday bash!
The film for the night will be Godzilla vs. Biollante (1989) and our Godzilla House Band, Big Pimp Jones, returns to play classic Godzilla music LIVE! We will also be holding our second annual Great Godzilla Raffle for amazing prizes! Dealers, prizes, displays and more! Doors open at 6:00PM, show starts at 7:00PM. Details and more announcements to come!!”
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San Francisco Pride
Saturday-Sunday, June 28-29
see website for parade route and detailed schedule
$5 suggested donation
“The Mission of the San Francisco Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Pride Celebration Committee is to educate the world, commemorate our heritage, celebrate our culture, and liberate our people.
2014 marks the 44th anniversary of the San Francisco Pride Celebration and Parade. The theme is Color Our World With Pride, and the event will be held over the weekend of June 28 and 29, 2014. With over 200 parade contingents, 300 exhibitors, and more than twenty community-run stages and venues, the San Francisco Pride Celebration and Parade is the largest gathering of LGBT people and allies in the nation.
The two-day celebration takes place in Civic Center Plaza in downtown San Francisco the last full weekend of June each year. The Parade, which takes place the Sunday morning of the event, kicks off from Beale Street along Market and ends at Market and 8th Street in the heart of downtown San Francisco.”
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The Pagan Alliance needs volunteers for fundraising at San Francisco Pride:
“Bringing back the Pagan Festival Begins with You!
Let’s make the Pagan Festival happen on Saturday, May 9, 2015. The Pagan Festival is a Community effort. Funding and volunteers will make it possible. The following is an opportunity to contribute your time that will result in a grant to fund this Community tradition.
Volunteer for The Pagan Alliance at SF LGBT Pride Celebration and Parade
Saturday, June 28th and Sunday, June 29
The Pagan Alliance has proudly volunteered at San Francisco Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender Pride Celebration and Parade since 2002. The Pagan Alliance is an all volunteer education and service organization. Our volunteers make the Donation Partner grant possible. Our volunteer work allows us to receive a grant for hours that we contribute at the event. The more volunteer hours you can work will result in a larger grant to fund the Pagan Festival.
For volunteering, you will receive a Pagan Alliance t-shirt and you'll meet others in the Pagan community while having fun and making the 2015 Pagan Festival possible.
Hours of volunteering are from 11:00AM-5:30 \PM. Shifts are 2 and a half hours each. You can volunteer as many shifts as you wish.
The shifts are on Saturday, June 28 and Sunday, June 29:
1st Shift: 10:00AM-12:30PM
2nd Shift: 12:30-3:00PM
3rd Shift: 3:00-5:30PM
We work in pairs collecting $5 (or more) donations from people attending the event. In return, they’ll give a beverage discount sticker. It’s that easy! The more donations collected, the larger the grant.
The Pagan Festival is an interfaith community tradition and community offering spanning from 2001 to 2012. The goals of the festival are to celebrate our traditions with interfaith ritual, altars, speakers, authors, and performers; to build community, and educate the general public. The festival is also a Pagan Market Place, offering an opportunity to buy ritual tools, gifts for Grads and Mothers Day, and to find out about services and businesses of the Pagan Community. Please help us preserve the Pagan Festival and programs for your Community.
The Pagan Alliance will be honored to host the festival on May 9, 2015. However, we need your help; the help of our Community. Hosting the festival IS a community effort. By volunteering with the Pagan Alliance as a Donations Partner at for the SF Pride Celebration and Parade, you will help fund the rental of the stage and sound system, funding the City of Berkeley Special Events and Sound permits, funding the security that is required by the City of Berkeley, funding the storage and truck rental for the festival infrastructure, and funding advertising and promotion. In addition, the grant keeps the Pagan Festival free to everyone.
To volunteer, please contact me at arlynnecamire@gmail.com or send me a message on Facebook to Arlynne Camire. If you should have any questions feel free to call me at 510-872-1188. Please let me know your legal name, tee-shirt size, and what shift(s) you would like to work. You will be emailed a volunteer waiver form so we have a record of your volunteer hours.
We can make the Pagan Festival happen by working together. Thank you for your gift of time.”
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Crockett Railroad Days
Saturday-Sunday, June 28-29, 10:00AM-4:00PM
Carquinez Model Railroad Society, 645 Loring Avenue, Crockett
Adults $6 donation, Under 16 Free
“The Carquinez Model Railroad Society (CMRS) is a non-profit California corporation made up of a diverse group of model railroad enthusiasts of many ages, professions and backgrounds.
We are located in the heart of Crockett just up the street from the famous C&H sugar refinery.”
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Art of Feminine Presence: Love Your Essence
Full Day Intensive Women-Centered Celebration
with Marcela Liliana Veron
Sunday, June 29, 9:30AM-4:30PM
Rhythmix Cultural Works, 2513 Blanding Avenue, Alameda
$197 before June 22, $297 after
“Explore, enhance and embody your feminine essence!
Access the most powerful and attractive force you have within you.
In this intimate circle setting, Marcela will be guiding you through powerful practices and moving meditations that will tune you in to your soulfulness in ways that will help you attune to your feminine essence and create more magic and love in your life.
If you have felt that you need more grounding, more intimacy, more sensuality, more intuitiveness or more love fulfillment... but unsure how to really go about bringing it more nourishingly, solidly, and sustainably into your life, then this series is for you.
Please join us on this fabulous woman circle-centered journey through the next Six Week Series.
Reserve Your Spot! We would love to have you be a part of something special, soulful and sovereign!
Please feel free to invite a cherished friend to register with you, so you can both enjoy more feminine fabulous fun!”
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California Witchcamp 2014
Sunday-Sunday, June 29-July 6
Mendocino Woodlands, exact address given upon registration
Please see website for detailed schedule and registration information
“This is an extraordinary event for extraordinary people.
Share in a week of Reclaiming style, earth based spirituality and magic. Come and study magic and ritual in a week long Intensive. Witchcamp is offered to all genders at all levels of experience. Newcomers can learn the basic skills of magic and ritual, working with the elements, movement, sound and the mythological and historical framework of the Goddess Tradition.
Advanced classes offer the chance to apply the tools of ritual to personal healing and empowerment, or a focus on taking the Craft out into the world, creating public ritual, ongoing groups, and healing issues surrounding leadership and power. This event is a deeply moving, life changing week and a constant experiment in temporary village life. We will also look at ways of bringing this work and inspiration into our everyday lives, creating powerful, joyful times.
We welcome people of all genders, gender histories, and orientations, and we encourage you to feel safe to explore the fluidity of your identity, if you so choose.
This year Witchcamp will be held at the Mendocino Woodlands, located just far enough outside the town of Mendocino to avoid coastal fog. The camp is set among a mature Redwood/Douglas Fir forest, creating a beautiful, peaceful setting. The cabins are rustic, but pretty. Camping is also an option. A small river runs through the camp, and is the home of steelhead trout. To request a brochure, please send us an email at: info@californiawitchcamp.org with your mailing address.”
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Chute 212: A Celebration of Magical Memories in the Potterverse
Wednesday-Sunday, July 2-6,
Santa Clara Convention Center, 5001 Great America Parkway, Santa Clara
Please see website for detailed schedule and registration information
“Welcome to the Potterverse where a magical conference awaits you!
On July 2-6 2014 take the Chute Network to Chute 212.
In our secret, magical town hidden from the mundanes, this literary and create-play conference brings witches and wizards together for A Celebration of Magical Memories, and the towns-folk are all a-broom-buzzing in preparation!
Music and dancing, special guests and presentations, cosplay and createplay, interactive workshops and wingding activities are sure to send your spirits high and mark another year of fond memories in the magical world. 5 days and 4 nights of magic!
Come celebrate with witches and wizards of all ages, and get your broom on!”
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As One We Flow: A RiverGuidess Adventure
Thursday-Sunday, July 3-6
on the Stanislaus River in Oakdale, address given upon registration
see website for registration information
“Summer’s around the bend. Let your inner child out to play!
This is the Summer Camp you dreamed of as a kid! Now that you’re all grown up, you can enjoy comfortable shaded ‘glamping’ on velvet lawns, gentle river rafting, swimming, yoga, meditation, various forms of conscious and ecstatic dance, massage and bodywork, hot showers, gourmet organic meals, and so much more. Yes - Paradise has been found on the Stanislaus River, an easy drive, just 90 minutes east of Oakland Airport and the San Francisco Bay!
Open to Singles, Couples and (a few) Families, we offer exclusive access to a magical, private riverfront estate that few ever get to see, let alone be for an entire holiday weekend. You’ll discover sandy beaches, hammocks and rope swings galore, exotic statues, a temple made of redwood trees, plants carved into topiaries, and more surprises at every turn.
Swim in gentle currents, feel the warm breezes on your skin. Nurture your body, open your heart, soothe your soul and connect with people of like mind and spirit. This will become one of your most treasured memories in this lifetime! We’re along the road from San Francisco to Yosemite, so you might include a trip to the Park in your plans.
Our guest teacher and artist line-up is coming soon, featuring:
Live and DJed music
Yoga and Meditation
Conscious Dance and Movement Classes
Inspirational Playshops and Connecting Activities
Delicious organic meals and snacks
No rafting experience necessary! This gentle river is great for novice and experienced alike.”
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Time Travel Weekends
in Historic Old Sacramento
Saturday-Sunday, July 5-6, 11:00AM-5:00PM,
and every weekend through August 24
Historic Old Sacramento, 101 I Street, Sacramento
“Get ready to step back in time when the past mingles with the present once again in Old Sacramento! Visitors to Old Sacramento will enjoy lively and interactive street theatre as part of the hugely popular Time Travel Weekends. The streets of Old Sacramento will come alive with talented performers who put on spontaneous and elaborate skits and performances. Plus, visitors won’t want to miss the highly entertaining Old West stage shows happening daily, including the much-acclaimed Golden Melodeon Review in the Eagle Theatre.
As you stroll through Old Sacramento on weekends July through August, you might just chance upon historic re-enactments complete with wagons, wild characters with heroes and villains, children’s pioneer craft activities, historic gambling, bowling, juggling, singing, dancing and other forms of musical mastery, military encampments, mining camps, parades, historic events, medicine shows, Civil War cannon firings, and much, much more!”
A lot of the performers in this program are Renaissance Faire and/or Dickens Fair folk!
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Bay Area Country Dance Society Family Week
Sunday-Saturday, July 6-12
Foothill Horizons Outdoor School, 21925 Lyons Bald Mountain Road, Sonora
see website for detailed schedule and registration information
activities for ages from preschool through adult
“Join us for six days full of dancing, music, crafts, swimming, games, storytelling, and too much fun…
Family Dance Camp is about the time-honored tradition of movement and music, and the camp will be filled with fun folk-dancing for the whole family. There will be something for all ages, including English Country dance, square dances, contra dances, sword dancing, step dancing, couples dances, and daily community dances that bring the entire camp together.
The music at camp is the best! The extremely talented musical staff will make your toes tap for dancing and your ears happy from listening. The staff will provide music for all kinds of dancing, will lead workshops for new and experienced musicians alike, and will lead the camp in joyous song. Instruction will be offered for many instruments, including fiddle, guitar, piano, and mandolin.
Enjoy the eternal art of storytelling. Our professional storyteller will enchant children and adults alike with storytelling sessions every day and a bedtime story as well. After the evening story the children will be serenaded off to bed with our traditional pied-piper parade.
Family Dance Camp craft classes offer adults and children a chance to make things with their hands. Our talented and knowledgeable artists will help all ages take pride in what they create.”
Thanks to Vicki Solomon for letting me know about this event!
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RiffTrax Live presents Sharknado!
Wednesday, July 10 and Monday, July 15
see website for local event details
By the way, RiffTrax has a Kickstarter running now through June 11 to fund their next live-riffing tour - the 1998 version of Godzilla:
“Fathom Events, The Asylum and RiffTrax.com are ecstatic to bring the stars of Mystery Science Theater 3000 (MST3K) back to select cinemas nationwide on Thursday, July 10 LIVE and Tuesday, July 15 for a hilarious never-before-seen take on the viral B-movie sensation, Sharknado.
Considered by many critics to be one of the greatest movies ever made in the ‘Tornado full of sharks’ genre, Sharknado debuted in 2013 to unprecedented buzz. Not since Snakes On A Plane had the Internet been so excited about a movie, and not since the late 90s had anyone been so excited about anything starring Tara Reid.
Ian Ziering, played by William Katt, stars as ‘Fin’ (Get it???), a famous surfer whose day at the beach is ruined by colder than expected water temperatures. We’re just kidding of course, it’s ruined by the ENORMOUS TORNADO FULL OF RAVENOUS SHARKS. Soon they infiltrate the entire city of Los Angeles via the sewer system and… Look, why are you still reading this? It has chainsaws, helicopters dropping bombs, and the aforementioned TORNADO FULL OF SHARKS! Get yourself to the theater already!
From the moment it debuted, Sharknado has been one of the most requested titles in RiffTrax history. It makes Jaws IV look like Jaws III, and Jaws III look like Jaws. You won’t want to miss the chance to see Mike, Kevin, and Bill tackle Sharknado!
Join Michael J. Nelson, Kevin Murphy, and Bill Corbett of RiffTrax.com for an uproarious riff on the most outrageous flick of 2013! This two-night event will be your only chance to see the guys fire their wisecracking commentary at Sharknado on the big screen.”
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Moonlight Steam Train Dinner Party at Roaring Camp
Saturday, July 12, 5:00-10:00PM,
and three more Saturdays, August 9, September 6, and October 4
Roaring Camp Railroads, 5401 Graham Hill Road, Felton, 831-335-4484
see website for schedule admission details
“Treat yourself to an evening of fun and relaxation at Roaring Camp's Western Moonlight Dinner Train Party. Start with a hearty barbecue steak dinner followed by a leisurely train ride aboard vintage railway cars. The steam train stops atop Bear Mountain to a glowing campfire, hot cider and musical sing-along. Upon returning to Roaring Camp, hot apple pie and a country western band await you. Get into the swing of things by line dancing or two-stepping the night away.”
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Summer Barn Dance at Tara Firma Farm
Saturday, July 12, Dinner at 6:00PM, Dancing at 7:00PM
Tara Firma Farm, 3796 I Street, Petaluma
$20
“Fun and lively dancing with caller Mavis McGaugh. Grab your friends and come on down to the farm for some delicious grub and lively dancing! Come early and tour the farm.
Eats at 6:00PM, Dancing starts at 7:00PM.
Tara Firma Farms is a sustainable, farm producing food that connects the community to each other. In 2009, we set off on a mission to create a source of food produced with the highest integrity and to allow the people who consume our food full access to our farm. From the inception we have offered FREE weekend tours, providing education to the public. This allows the community to learn where their food comes from, how they can be accountable in the process, choosing between conventional, organic or local and knowing all the differences to make educated decisions. By including our customers, it keeps us accountable to produce the highest quality food in the most sustainable and ecologically sound way.”
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Palo Alto Clay and Glass Festival
Saturday-Sunday, July 12-13, 10:00AM-5:00PM
Palo Alto Art Center, 1313 Newell Road, Palo Alto
Free
“The prestigious and popular 22nd Annual Palo Alto Clay and Glass Festival hosts a fabulous, free, fun-filled two-day celebration of Clay and Glass Art on July 12-13, 2014, at the Palo Alto Art Center. Featuring both fine and functional art, the Palo Alto Clay and Glass Festival is the largest show of its kind, with 150 juried artists displaying their work. Meet the artists and learn about their art. Enjoy a variety of engaging activities, including hands-on pottery-making and wheel-throwing demonstrations.”
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Felted Vest Workshop
with Katharine Jolda
Friday-Saturday, July 12-13, 10:00AM-5:00PM
Bodega Pastures, Bodega, RSVP for address
$265, including materials, camping and two meals.
“Felted vest-making workshop with guest singers from Kitka
In this two-day workshop, you will make for yourself a customized and stylish felt vest from Bodega Pastures’ finest sheep’s wool.
Day 1: Size and design the patterns, card the wool on the Cyclocarder, meet and greet the sheep! Continuing the ancient tradition of singing while working, members of Kitka, the world-famous women’s vocal ensemble, will bring folk songs from Eastern Europe.
Day 2: Felting and decorating the vests. Plus, a small natural dye project for embellishment.
Camping is accommodated on site, and a full dinner and breakfast will be provided. The setting is rustic, but wheelchair accessible.
Instructor Katharine Ellen Jolda is the artisan behind Felt the Sun, a collection of felt apparel made from Navajo and Bay Area wool, and understands her felt practice as a creative form of ‘direct action’ that builds reciprocal and honorable relationships to serve practical needs.
Read more about Katharine in the blog post Mother of Invention on the Fibershed blog.
Bodega Pastures is a 1200-acre ranch in the hills surrounding Salmon Creek, just outside of the town of Bodega. Since the 1960s, several families have collaborated as stewards of the land, running about 300 sheep, and offering a Waldorf-inspired pre-school for children in the area.”
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Petaluma Art and Garden Festival
Sunday, July 13, 11:00AM-5:00PM
Historic Downtown Petaluma
Free admission
“Come and enjoy the best of what Petaluma has to offer at the 13th Annual Art and Garden Festival in Historic Downtown Petaluma! Listen to FREE live music by four bands and browse the streets of downtown that will be lined with more than 150 booths from local artists, gardeners, restaurants, wineries and breweries! This is one of Petaluma's favorite festivals as there is something for everyone, including the Italian Street Art Competition, formerly known as the Chalk Art Competition, as well as a Children's Corner!
We are pleased to announce that the Petaluma Art and Garden Festival has been voted as Best Outdoor Art Event, Sonoma County! Thanks to all those who voted for us and we look forward to another great festival this July with lots of amazing and talented participants!”
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Step Back In Time at Filoli
Thursday, July 17, 5:00-8:00PM
Filoli, 86 Canada Road, Woodside
$60
Tickets must be purchased in advance, sales start on Monday, June 16 at 9:00AM
“Imagine the way you might have dressed if you were a guest at Filoli in the 1920s.
Filoli is a special place and we have planned a special summer evening that you won’t want to miss.
If you are a fan of Downton Abbey or The Great Gatsby and enjoy a great garden party, you will enjoy this evening as Filoli ‘steps back in time’ with music and dress of the 1920s. Stroll the House and Garden in your period dress (optional) or don your fedora and come to see those who have also dressed for the occasion.
While listening to live music, partake in passed hors d’oeuvres and drinks, including white wine, beer, iced tea and sparkling water served by staff and volunteers in period dress reminiscent of Filoli’s 1920s household staff.
Located 30 miles south of San Francisco, Filoli is an historic site of the National Trust for Historic Preservation and one of the finest remaining country estates of the early 20th century. Whether enjoying its beauty or pursuing its educational opportunities, we invite you to explore this cherished community resource.”
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Summer Yoga and Ayurveda Retreat
with Melina Meza
Friday-Sunday, July 18-20
Avalon Springs, Middletown, address and directions given upon registration
see website for registration details
“Discover the offerings of Ayurveda to explore a deeper sense of balance, awareness and vitality. The word Ayurveda is derived from the Sanskrit root Ayu, signifying life, and Veda, meaning knowledge. Ayurveda refers to a philosophy and health science that promotes life and longevity. Within the art and science of Yoga and Ayurveda, there are endless ways to rediscover the body’s inherent joy and healthfulness of living in balance from season to season. In addition to asana practice, Melina will share insights into physical health and nutrition as well as how to inspire self-knowledge that allows for the conscious adjustment of day-to-day choices. This nourishing retreat emphasizes the importance of sequencing and being in alignment with nature.
Melina will offer her favorite seasonal vinyasa practices and Ayurvedic concepts such as: doshas, rasa, vikruti, dinacharya, and pancha mahabhutas (earth, water, fire, air, space) to prepare your foundation for an unforgettable summer and weekend at Avalon Springs.
The mineral hot springs of Avalon have been honored for centuries for promoting harmony and wellness. Relax and unwind in the Magnesium-rich Medicine Spring Water. Experience the skin-softening effects of the Boron-rich Mother Spring. Melt away tensions while feeling the strengthening effects of the Iron-rich Dragon Spring. And stay hydrated with your choice of seven different mineral drinking springs, flowing fresh and clean straight from the earth.
You will return home from this retreat rejuvenated, with the foundation needed to continue a daily ayurvedic practice that can transform your life.
Melina has been exploring the art and science of yoga and nutrition for over 20 years. She combines her knowledge of Hatha Yoga, Ayurveda, whole foods nutrition, and healthy lifestyle promotion into a unique style called Seasonal Vinyasa. Her devotion to yoga and eating well, to teaching and nutritional counseling, and to traveling and experiencing different cultures combine to create a colorful and hopefully enlightening perspective from which to share that which she loves about yoga in its entirety. Meza is the author of the Art of Sequencing books and Yoga for the Seasons - Fall Vinyasa DVD. Melina holds a BS in Nutrition, 500 E-RYT, and is an Ayurveda Health Educator.
Avalon Springs has what we think is the perfect mix between rustic living, cozy comfort and spa goodness. The rooms are old and are still being refurbished so aren’t super fancy, but are comfortable and cozy. Most of the rooms have a sink for washing but use a shared bathroom by the pools or in the lodge like the original hot springs was set up. The food and the waters are top notch and are as healing and tasteful as at any resort I’ve been to, if not more so. The all-around vibe is familial, and you’ll feel like you’re diving into yourself while being supported by the land, the waters, the food, the atmosphere and most of all the people. If you’re looking for a sterile 5 star $400/night hotel, this isn’t for you!
The healing waters are the heart of the Avalon Springs experience. The mineral hot springs of Avalon have been honored for centuries for promoting harmony and wellness. In addition to the soaking springs, Avalon boasts a variety of special mineral drinking waters which can be enjoyed straight from their place of emergence in the rock. One drinking spring is high in Lithium - a mood elevator commonly used to treat Bipolar Disorder. Other springs include a bubbly iron soda drinking spring, a Magnesium-rich ‘laxative’ spring historically named ‘Dynamite Spring’, and Bohemia Spring, which was considered a hang-over tonic to cure the effects of over-indulgence!
Avalon is set up much like the old Weber Hot Springs from the 1940s upon which Avalon sits, with a main lodge, a mini bath house and cottages set back on the hill. We offer shared double rooms or single rooms. The bathrooms are located in the bathhouse and the main lodge although some room shave a sink for washing in them.
The kitchen at Avalon Springs will draw ingredients straight from the garden, offering an ample buffet-style meal plan with large meals twice daily (lunch and dinner) and a juice and snack bar available for breakfast and between-meals needs. Entrees for meals at Avalon will include some organic local meats, fish, and poultry as well as ample fresh vegetarian fare sourced from local farms and Avalon’s own gardens. Raw food delights will also be showcased on occasion to feature the potency and taste of the freshest produce available.
With every meal introducing healing foods preparation including raw food delicacies, superfood juices, and healing teas, dining at Avalon will be a healing experience. Unlike many healing resorts, Avalon Springs will have no dogmatic restrictions on diet, allowing the guests the freedom to explore options and choose their own ways to nourish themselves naturally, with everything from raw chocolates to hearty meats and local wines.
Included:
Asana Practices and Teachings with Melina
Two Dinners, Two Brunches and two light breakfasts by our fantastic chef
Accommodation of your choosing
Use of Hot Springs and Facilities
Avalon has:
Towels, Robes, linens/bedding, wifi in the main lodge.”
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Lichen Dyes
with Shelly Bensen and Sarah Minnick
Friday, July 19, 10:00AM-4:00PM
private ranch in Nicasio, Martin County, address given upon registration
“Join us for a special opportunity to learn about these fascinating organisms, and discover their amazing natural dye properties! This class is co-taught by Shelly Bensen and Sarah Minnick.
An overview and history of lichen dyes will be presented, followed by information on the methodologies of creating lichen dye baths. We will heat up some dyes and add fiber samples (provided). While the dye lichens are doing their work, Shelly will lead a foray into the surrounding area to look for lichens. Participants will learn some common lichen species and the characteristics that will help identify those good for dyeing. After the foray, we’ll see what colors have developed in the dye vats! Participants will take home instructions for dyeing with lichens as well as the samples they dyed. If you have a hand lens, please bring it on the foray so you can truly appreciate the fine details of the lichens.
The workshop will take place on a ranch in Nicasio. Participants are requested to bring a dish to share for the potluck lunch.
There will also be an opportunity to learn about the groundbreaking work of the Carbon Cycle Institute, whose mission is to stop and reverse global warming by advancing natural, science-based solutions that remove atmospheric carbon while promoting environmental stewardship, social equity and economic sustainability.”
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Rivertown Revival
Saturday, July 19, 11:30AM-7:00PM
Steamer Landing Park, 6 Copeland Street, Petaluma
Free
“Once again, it’s time to ramp up for the Greatest Slough on Earth!
Like you, we love Sonoma County and all of the bounty that it has to offer. For this reason, and many more, we’ve celebrating the 5th year of this local, arts-based, community festival that highlights the Petaluma River and all of the amazing artists who call our county home. The event includes an art boat race and parade, floating art barges and an all-day festival, which includes local music, art, food and drink and over 40 fabulous local vendors. The Rivertown Revival is sure to be 2014′s most unique and creative summer festival!
Music
The stage will be busy all day with a variety of foot-stompin’, creative, crowd-pleasing acts of Americana.
Artboats
Races and displays will be happening throughout the day.
Eco-Consciousness
Please bring your own drinking vessel to the Rivertown Revival, as we are dedicated to creating a low-impact event to our beautiful peninsula and river environment. There will be limited disposables available at the event, and you will notice ample recycling and composting bins throughout. Please help us preserve the peninsula and keep our event waste-free.
Parking
We heartily encourage bicycling or walking to the Revival, however limited parking will be available off of D Street between the bridge and Lakeville Highway.
Bicycle Valet
A free Bicycle Valet organized by the Sonoma County Bicycle Coalition will be set at Steamer Landing Park.
Children
Bring them! This is a family friendly event, and children will have their own kingdom in the River Kidstown - an area dedicated to kids crafts and entertainment.
Pets
We love animals, but our livestock and food vendors are wary. Pleases keep your dogs, cats, birds, and fish at home. (We’re ok with snakes as body art.)
Food and Beverage
A bounty of food vendors will be on site to tempt you with local goodies - save room for lunch, dessert, and more while supporting your local purveyors.
Artisans
We’re choosing the most unique local vendors to display their crafts at the Revival. We encourage you to support the many wares that will be available.”
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Midsummer Garden Tea: A Mad Hatter Tea Party
Saturday, July 19, 3:00-6:00PM
Luther Burbank Home and Gardens, 204 Santa Rosa Avenue, Santa Rosa
$50
“Join us in the Memorial Garden at Luther Burbank Home and Gardens on Saturday, July 19, from 3:00-6:00PM.
Wine Reception, Afternoon Tea, and Silent Auction
Hat Contest and Table Decoration Judging
Complimentary Home Tour available at 2:00PM and 2:30PM
We would be delighted with the honor of your company!
Tickets are $50. Proceeds from this fundraiser will help assure that what's inside the fence line looks as good as our New Fence will! (We may or may not be showing off the New Fence by Tea Time.)
Reservations can be made online or by calling 707-524-5445.”
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Renegade Craft Fair
Saturday-Sunday, July 19-20, 11:00AM-6:00PM
Festival Pavilion, Fort Mason Center, 99 Marina Boulevard, San Francisco
Free
“Renegade Craft Fair is the world’s premier network of events serving the DIY craft community. RCF was the first event of its kind when it was founded in 2003, and 11 years later we are still the largest and most far-reaching with 11 annual events in Austin, Brooklyn, Chicago, London, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. On average, our events are attended by over 250,000 people annually, and hundreds of craft-based businesses have been launched successfully out of the fairs.
RCF was founded for a very simple reason: there simply wasn’t a curated, well-run event for DIY-ers. Our founders had been looking for an event to participate in, but existing events were highly focused on fine arts + crafts. After launching the first Renegade Craft Fair in Chicago in the fall of 2003, the DIY craft fair concept took off immediately has since spread to the major network of events that it is today. We are constantly on the lookout for bright new talent, and couldn’t be more proud of our reputation as a resource for advancing independent artisan and craft businesses.
Everything at the fairs reflects our commitment to showcase the best and brightest in indie craft and design. This begins with our vendors, featuring products ranging from cutting-edge fashion and jewelry design to sophisticated ceramics and housewares, contemporary furniture and lighting, bath and body products, screen-printed art, paper goods, and more.
Beyond our vendors, you will find local artisanal food and drink, original art installations created just for the fair by hand-selected artists, interactive workshops, great music, good vibes and more.
The Renegade Craft Fair San Francisco July Market lands at the Fort Mason Center Festival Pavillion this July 19-20. Situated between the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz, the scenic San Francisco Bay will provide a perfect backdrop to the stunning work of some of the most talented makers out there. Market hours are from 11:00AM-6:00PM both days.
RCF is always free to attend. Limited but affordable parking is available at the Fort Mason Center lot. Unfortunately, pets are not allowed in the venue, so please do not bring your adorable dog.”
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Catalan Festival
Saturday-Sunday, July 19-20, 12:00-4:00PM
Gloria Ferrer Caves and Vineyards, 23555 Carneros Highway, Sonoma
see website for admission details
“A Spanish Heritage Festival of Wine, Music, and Food
Join us for a day of traditional Spanish folklore as you stroll and enjoy passionate music, flamenco dancing, savory tapas and paella samples and sip our acclaimed Carneros sparkling and estate wines. We invite you to share these multi-faceted experiences that tantalize the senses with cooking demonstrations, educational seminars and a festive grape stomp.
This year’s festival benefits the Sonoma Valley Education Foundation.”
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Gold Rush Adventure!
Sunday, July 20, 12:00-4:00PM
History Park, 635 Phelan Avenue, San Jose
$5
City parking available for $6
“Summer is a good time to have an adventure, and History Park will provide the backdrop. Gold Rush Adventure Day will allow friends and families to be a ’49er for a day - as in the original gold rushers of 1849.
Come join us for gold panning, historic games from the Gold Rush, and craft activities for children ages 4-11, including leavings dolls, churning butter, a jumping frog contest, roping a steer, milking a cow, and pony express relay. Lance Beeson and the New California Minstrels will provide a musical backdrop to the fun and games, but when your feet get tired, come inside to the Fox Den, and check out some of our gold rush videos.
There’s more than just gold to explore at the park. Take a ride on the trolley and give the handcar a try. Be sure to visit the Print Shop for a printing press demonstration, and explore the Fruit Barn, One Room School House, Umbarger House, and Dashaway Stables.
Be sure to drop in to the McKay Gallery at the Pasetta House to view the Shirlie Montgomery: Picturing San Jose Since 1938 exhibit.”
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Not-So-Simple Living Fair
Friday-Sunday, July 25-27
Mendocino County Fairgrounds, 1400 Highway 128, Boonville
see website for schedule and registration details
“One thousand modern homesteaders will gather for Boonville's fourth annual not-so-simple living fair.
Once again, the scenic Anderson Valley gears up for three days of practical DIY skills, fun, music and the building of a community.
Mendocino County Members of the Anderson Valley Foodshed Group have filled dozens of presenter slots for the Not-So-Simple Living Fair in a packed schedule that spans Friday through Sunday, July 25th through 27th at the Boonville Fairgrounds. For the last five years, local homesteaders, farmers and experts in their various fields have been presenting hour and a half long hands-on workshops and demonstrations on topics as diverse as giving seaweed facials to working with draft horses. More than six workshops in six different subject areas will be taking place around the fairgrounds simultaneously, as well as ongoing demonstrations, scheduled round table discussions in the ‘conversation cafe’, a curated ‘tool show and tell’, kids activities and various local food and craft vendors. Main topics covered at the fair include homesteading, farming and gardening, animal husbandry, wild food foraging and hunting, food processing, creating shelter and other practical living skills.”
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CAYA Fun For Everyone: FaerieWorlds 2014
Event dates: Friday-Sunday, July 25-27
Travel dates: To the Realm: July 24, Back to the Default World: July 28-29
Mount Pisgah, 34999 Frank Parrish Road, Eugene, OR
see website for admission and camping details
Cross Sidhe says:
“Hello everyone!
This will mark the third year of CAYA Fun For Everyone being at Faerie Worlds! This year we are planning a camp where we can all get together and be in one place. We will have a 12x12 canopy and a solar shower this year. Since we will have people coming from other states, I have setup a planning page so we can all get together and plan things:
CAYA Fun For Everyone Faerie Worlds 2014:
PLEASE LET ALL OF YOUR FRIENDS KNOW!!!
Blessed Be!
Cross Sidhe”
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Litha Faire
Saturday, July 26, 10:00AM-5:00PM
Quaker Meeting House, 225 Rooney Street, Santa Cruz
$7, children under 12 free
“Litha Faire Midsummer Magic Psychic and Craft Faire
Welcome to Litha Faire!
A Summer Solstice Celebration to Honor the Enchantment of Midsummer
Greetings Litha Faire Participants and Guests!
Litha Faire is committed to the service of humanity and giving back to those who serve our community. We are pleased to announce that the Community Bridges Meals on Wheels program will be receiving all the proceeds from this year's raffle. Wonderful prizes have been donated!
The Litha Faire Group is a coalition of local artisans, psychics, healers, performers, and people who care about healing the planet.
The Litha Faire project was borne out of a need to unite people of like mind in a positive way. The economic downturn in our country has had negative repercussions for all of us. Many of us are feeling downtrodden due to the recent cycle of events.
Our group has chosen to approach these challenging times from a positive perspective and view it as an opportunity for a spiritual renaissance!
Although it feels as if Pandora’s box has been opened and unleashed in the world once again, Litha Faire is here to remind all of us of the one thing left in the box after all the calamity had passed… and that was…
HOPE
We may not be able to change the world instantaneously, but we can change the way we live in it.
Come celebrate the enchanted life with us this summer solstice.”
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Martinez Peddlers Faire
Saturday, August 2, 8:00AM-4:00PM
Downtown Martinez, Alhambra Avenue at Marina Vista, Martinez
free admission
“Join us for the 2014 Peddlers’ Faires
Voted East Bay's Best Source for Old Treasures!
Featuring Vintage, Antiques, Collectibles and Arts and Crafts
in Downtown Martinez, The Antique and Collectible Capital of Contra Costa County!
One of the largest outdoor antique and collectible shows in northern California. Held on the streets of historic downtown Martinez on Saturday, May 17 and Saturday, August 2, from 8:00AM-4:00PM. Get here early to get the first pick of that special item to add to your collection.
You will find plenty to choose from as dealers will be showing a huge variety of antiques and collectibles including glassware, porcelain, pottery, furniture, old advertising, toys, Native American wares, paper items and much more.
While at the Faire, be sure to visit the 12 downtown Martinez Antique and Collectible stores. The 50-plus dealers in the stores will be bringing in new inventory for the Faire in preparation for the thousands of visitors on Faire day. In addition to the antiques and collectibles, there are over 50 arts and crafts vendors so there will be something for everyone at the show.
John Humphries, radio and TV collectibles talk show host, and the author of several books on collectibles, will again be on hand during the day to give evaluations of one carry-in item for a $5 donation to the Martinez Historic Society. John will be located at the information booth on Ferry Street near Main Street from 8:00AM-4:00PM. John is always a popular feature at the Faire so be sure to get in line early and get a number. Bring in that old piece of pottery, glass, toy or other collectible but remember, no furniture, carry-in items only please.
Parking and admission are free. See you at the Faire!”
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San Jose Renaissance Faire
Saturday-Sunday, August 2-3, 10:00AM-6:00PM
Guadalupe River Park, 494 West Santa Clara Street, San Jose
Adults $17, ages 13-17, seniors and military $12, ages 6-12 $7, under 6 free
Parking $5 at HP Pavilion
“If you love Renaissance Faires, this full-scale, interactive experience is not to be missed. San Jose Renaissance Faire offers you a chance to visit the days of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth I. See brave and bold knights competing for the favor of the Her Majesty's Court and for their lady's affection during full-contact jousts held in the Queen's Tiltyard each day. 700 costumed performers will bring Shakespeare's England to life with parades, pageants, and fun townsfolke, offering continuous entertainment of spectacular variety. You'll enjoy musicians, jugglers, and the ribaldry of actors drawing you even deeper into the Renaissance.”
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Carnival of Stars World Dance and Arts Festival
Saturday-Sunday, August 2-3, 10:00AM-10:00PM
Richmond Memorial Auditorium and Convention Center, 403 Civic Center Plaza, Richmond
Adults $15, children under 12 $6
“Put on annually by Pepper Alexandria and Latifa.
Carnival of Stars is a combination Belly Dance show and Comic Book Convention. Our location for the August 2014 show will take place in the Richmond Auditorium in Richmond, California. That's two full days of non-stop professional belly-dance performances and other entertainment interspersed with live musical performances, panel discussions and a costume contest - complete with prizes!
Performers from all over the world converge on the stage, solo after solo, troupe after troupe, while audience members are free to peruse the various items on sale at the vendors' booths that fill the hall, and also to savor delectable food and drinks at reasonable prices. Our International Market features arts and crafts, dance costumes and accessories, jewelry, comic books, artwork and gifts of all kinds. Our continuous show includes stars of the bellydance world and a variety of other entertainers.”
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Astronomical Society of the Pacific Annual Meeting
Saturday-Wednesday, August 2-6
Hyatt Regency, 1333 Old Bayshore Highway, Burlingame, 650-347-1234
See website for registration details
“The ASP’s 2014 Annual Meeting will be held August 2-6, 2014, at the Hyatt Regency in Burlingame, just south of San Francisco. The Galileo Teacher Training Program (GTTP) workshop will be held August 2-3, 2014. The E/PO Meeting will be held August 4-6, 2014.
Celebrating Science: Putting Education Best Practices to Work through:
Supporting the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)
Engaging with 21st Century Media and Technology
Enhancing Science Communication Skills and Practices
Evaluating, Assessing and Documenting E/PO Impacts
Promoting Multicultural Diversity and Gender Equity
Using Authentic Science and Citizen Science
Improving Our Professional Practice
Plenaries, Panels and Workshops
Milton Chen, Senior Fellow and former Executive Director of the George Lucas Educational Foundation will deliver the Supporters Luncheon keynote address
Kick-off plenary will feature a discussion with high-level STEM agency administrative officials, tackling Co-STEM and the future of federal funding and programs in STEM education/outreach, with panelists Shelley Canright (NASA Education) and Janice Earle (NSF Education and Human Resources).
Panel moderator Bonnie Meinke (Space Telescope Science Institute) will lead Increasing Diversity in Earth and Space Science, an interactive plenary discussion with panelists sharing their perspectives from working with diverse audiences, including Native Americans, African Americans, Hispanics/Latinos, and girls and women. Panelists are: Gibor Basri (University of California, Berkeley), Annette Lee (St. Cloud University), Karen Kenney (Girls Inc. of the Island City), and Salvador Acevedo (Contemporanea).
Panel moderator Dennis Schatz (Pacific Science Center) will lead a Working with Scientists Who Interact with Public Audiences plenary, about enhancing the science communication skills of research scientists. Panelists will include Katherine Nielsen (UC San Francisco), Suzy Gurton (ASP), and Sue Ellen McCann (KQED and the Center for Advancing Informal Science Education).
Panel moderator Linda Shore, new Executive Director of the ASP and prior Director of the Teacher Institute at the Exploratorium, will lead a Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) plenary to address implications for schools, school districts, and teacher professional development providers. Panelists include Janet Carlson (Stanford), Julia Plummer (Penn State), and Caleb Cheung (Oakland USD).
Panel moderator Sanlyn Buxner (Planetary Sciences Institute) will lead Weighing the Balance of Science Literacy in Education and Public Policy. Plenary panelists will include Chris Impey (University of Arizona) and Bryce Johnson (Exploratorium).
Keynote speaker Dennis Bartels, Executive Director of the Exploratorium, will address connections across formal and informal STEM learning.
Other plenaries and concurrent sessions will explore NASA EPO impacts and metrics, public science literacy, ‘big science’, and amateur astronomers’ impact on research and outreach.”
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Born to Drum: Women’s Drum Camp
Thursday-Sunday, August 7-10
Bort Meadow, Anthony Chabot Regional Park
see website for registration information
“Join us on August 7-10, 2014 at beautiful Bort Meadow, Anthony Chabot Regional Park, just 20 minutes from Oakland, for a long weekend of camping, drum workshops, drum circles, shared meals, camp fires, performances, and fun for women and girls, 10 years and up. We also plan to have several vendors and a massage therapist on site.
This year, Women’s Drum Camp will be at Bort Meadow, the site of last year’s Community Camping Trip/fundraiser which was so wildly successful that we kept this site at popular request. Fees will remain very affordable, with only a slight increase in sliding scale to accommodate increased class offerings and provide payment for teachers. As always, trade for service will be available. Again this year, all participants at drum camp will volunteer for one or two 45 minute to 1 hour work shifts. Last year’s participants reported that work shifts were enjoyable and community-building.
Whether you are brand new to drumming or have been playing for years, you will find workshops that will both support and challenge you. We welcome women new to drumming, and will offer workshops to help you build a strong foundation. Some drums will be available to use. Workshops range from beginning to advanced with many all-levels classes. All workshops and drum circles are outdoors.
Prices for a long weekend of drumming are $50-$150 day on Friday-Sunday. This year we will provide the option of arriving on Thursday, August 7, to set up camp and enjoy the evening for $20. Register early. Space is limited.
We will be tenting at Bort Meadow. Our cars will be parked at a designated spot a short distance away from the meadow, with a drop off circle for convenient unloading of drums and gear. We also will provide a shuttle on an as0-needed basis. There is limited parking. Carpooling is recommended. Please network with friends to organize carpools. You can also post on the Born To Drum Yahoo site. After July 31, you can contact us at camp@womendrummers.org if you want to offer a ride or need a ride, and the organizers will help you. There are no electrical or other hook ups for RV. There are porta-potties but no showers. For those who do not want to camp out, the meadow is close to your homes or hotels in Oakland. Join us during the day! If you want to spend the night, bring your tent and camping equipment. Please bring a chair or stool for drumming. Potable water is available.
While we will share meals, everyone is responsible for bringing and cooking their own food and snacks. We will have a communal kitchen area. Last year we had sumptuous potlucks at every meal.”
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RASANBLE! Haitian Arts and Culture Festival
Friday-Sunday, August 8-10
The Humanist Hall, 390 27th Street, Oakland
see website for detailed schedule and prices
“The word Rasanble, in Haitian Kreyol, means ‘to gather’ or ‘to assemble.’ Our goal is to gather dancers, musicians, community leaders, scholars, activists, dance and music educators, linguists, cultural and food enthusiasts and supporters of Haiti to CELEBRATE make VISIBLE and INFORM participants of the rich cultural traditions that are the foundation of Haitian culture.
The Festival will provide a live forum over the course of multiple days that will allow for conversations, inquiries, technique analysis, and in depth interactions with traditional artists from Haiti.
Rara Tou Limen would like to extend a personal invitation to you, requesting your presence at RASANBLE! We look forward to collectively celebrating the richness and vibrancy of Haitian art, music, dance and culture with you!”
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Redwood Magic Reclaiming Family Camp
Wednesday-Sunday, August 13-17
Campsite Three, Mendocino Woodlands, 39350 Little Lake Road, Mendocino
see website for registration information
“Share in four days of Reclaiming style, Earth-based spirituality, magic, and community!
Join us in the redwoods at Mendocino Woodlands as we weave a web that crosses the generations.
Redwood Magic is a do-it-ourselves family camp. During our time at camp, all of us will be responsible for creating a vibrant, magical experience!
This is a community retreat, not a festival or a drop-in camp. We ask that people plan to attend the entire event (unless advance arrangements are made) and be committed to creating camp culture.”
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Biodynamic Conference: Medicine for Earth and Man
Presented by Dennis Klocek, Thomas Radetzki, Steffen Schneider
Friday-Sunday, August 15-17,
Friday 2:00-9:00PM, Saturday 8:15AM-9:00PM, Sunday 8:30AM-12:30PM
Rudolf Steiner College, 9200 Fair Oaks Boulevard, Fair Oaks
$175 through July 3; $185 July 4-August 7; $200 at the door
“Medicine for Earth and Man: the Earthworm, the Cow, and the Bee
Sponsored by the Biodynamic Association
Biodynamic experts with many different specialties will lead workshops on provocative and timely topics for farmers, gardeners, beekeepers, and students of biodynamic and organic agriculture. Festivities will include biodynamic food and wine festival and film screenings.
Discussion Group Topics:
Women in Biodynamics
Demeter Certification
Small Dairy Farming
Biodynamic Compost Making
Biodynamic Prep Making
Young Farmers
CSA Management and more
Keynote Speakers:
Dennis Klocek, MFA, is the Director of Consciousness Studies, a study of alchemy and transformation, at Rudolf Steiner College and co-founder of the Coros Institute. He is the author of seven books including Sacred Agriculture: The Alchemy of Biodynamics. Dennis is also known as an international lecturer.
Thomas Radetzki has been a beekeeper for over 40 years; in 1985 he founded Mellifera e.V, a center for biodynamic beekeeping. Thomas is recognized as a pioneer for organic beekeeping by the conventional Beekeepers Association and the Federal Government of Germany. With Mellifera e.V, he contributes substantially to rethinking beekeeping, and the politics and broad public knowledge of beekeeping.
Steffen Schneider has over three decades of experience as a farmer and herdsman. He is the director of Farming Operations, Hawthorne Valley Farm; Treasurer and Vice President of the Board of Directors of the BDA; adjunct faculty member of the Pfeiffer Center and the Hawthorne Valley Farm Learning Center teaching livestock management and biodynamics.
Workshop Presenters:
Matias Baker, Mike Benziger, Lisa Bjorn, Marney Blair, Maureen Curran, Paul Dolan, Luke Frey, Keith Gelber, David Gershan, MD, Bobby Grimes, Harald Hoven, Patricia Kaminski, Deter Lenoir, MD, Delmar McComb, Stephen Payne, Thomas Radetzki, Eduardo Rincón, Johnny Romero, Steffen Schneider, Matt Taylor
Apprentice Scholarships
Rudolf Steiner College is offering scholarships to Farm Apprentices at a reduced conference fee. To apply, simply indicate you are an apprentice and tell us the name of your farm when registering.”
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Inner Sanctum Symposium on Infinite Possibilities
presented by Temple of Isis
Friday-Monday, August 22-24
Isis Oasis Sanctuary, 20889 Geyserville Avenue, Geyserville, 707-857-4747
see website for registration details
“This August, Isis Oasis will be hosting the Inner Sanctum Symposium on Infinite Possibilities, a knowledge-sharing event within the Egyptian Pantheon Mysteries, and would like to invite you to participate. It is a scholarly weekend that is meant to be a playground of interesting ideas, practices, ritual, and learning. Anyone and everyone is welcome to attend. You do not have to be a priestess or priest. You simply must have a healthy curiosity.
As a community, we have so many wonderful practitioners that have very specific skills that many others would like to learn. Have you ever seen a ritual or event and wondered, ‘How does she do that? Where can I learn to do it?’ These and other questions will be answered throughout our programming track. At a time when Isis is making herself more known than ever in the modern past, achieving our goals in seeking her wisdom often lies within the wisdom of others.
We will have workshops, rituals, meditations, and lectures for your enjoyment, as well as lots of needed downtime meeting new friends and seeing old ones. As our shiny new website is under construction, we will be adding presenters to the ones already listed, and making the programming tract as complete as possible.
The event will commence with a potluck dinner on Friday night where guests are encouraged to come dressed as a deity within the Egyptian Pantheon, and will we will go around the pavilion with introductions and inspirations. Saturday will be full of learning, and a grand ritual in the late evening, after dinner. Sunday will be a high-holy day, with more intentions and practical applications of magic, ending the symposium with another group dinner and fond farewell to our guests.
Our special pricing makes this affordable for everyone, and we will also be accepting a few volunteers on work-trade. Please keep watching the website for updates and new information as this amazingly fun weekend comes together in an organic, magical way.
We hope to see you in August!”
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CAYA Fun For Everyone: Burning Man 2014
Monday-Monday, August 26 - September 2
Black Rock Desert, 120 miles north of Reno, Nevada
Cross Sidhe says:
“That is right!!!! I am going back to the Playa and I am taking you with me!!! I will have 3 to 4 seats open. Other drivers are most welcome. Planning will start after Burning Man 2013. Camp CAYA? Dome? Art? Group Origami? The possibilities are limitless.”
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River of Bliss: A RiverGuidess Adventure
Friday-Monday, August 29-September 1
on the Stanislaus River in Oakdale, address given upon registration
see website for registration information
“This Labor Day, forget those dusty campsites and long traffic jams.
Unplug, unwind, and FOLLOW YOUR BLISS down to the river with us! Enjoy comfortable shaded camping on velvet lawns, gentle rafting, swimming, yoga, meditation, various forms of conscious and ecstatic dance, massage, hot showers, gourmet organic meals, and so much more. Yes, Paradise has been found at the Stanislaus River, just 90 minutes east of the San Francisco Bay.
Let your inner child out to play!
Open to Singles, Couples and (a few) Families, we offer exclusive access to a magical, private riverfront estate that few ever get to see, let alone be for an entire holiday weekend. You’ll discover sandy beaches, hammocks and rope swings galore, exotic statues, a temple made of redwood trees, plants carved into topiaries, and more surprises at every turn.
Swim in gentle currents, feel the warm breezes on your skin. Nurture your body, open your heart, soothe your soul and connect with people of like mind and spirit. This will become one of your most treasured memories in this lifetime! We’re along the road from San Francisco to Yosemite, so you might include a trip to the Park in your plans.
Our guest teacher and artist line-up is coming soon, featuring:
Live and DJed music
Yoga and Meditation
Conscious Dance and Movement Classes
Inspirational Playshops and Connecting Activities
Delicious organic meals and snacks
No rafting experience necessary! This gentle river is great for novice and experienced alike.”
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Northern California Women's Herbal Symposium
Session 3: Friday-Monday, August 29-September 1
Black Oak Ranch, 50350 Highway 101, Laytonville
see website for detailed schedule and registration details
“PlantWomen gather! The Tribe comes together!
Now, three times a year women from many backgrounds of life gather together in great celebration for four full days of inspiring Herbal and Sustainability classes, gourmet vegetarian meals, talented campfire capers, amazing handcrafted marketplace items, Rites-of-Passage Ceremonies, powerful campfire drumming and dancing, refreshing swimming hole dips, and conversations with remarkable and inspiring women!
We meet together under the ancient oaks, douglas firs, and bay trees of Northern California. Our main gathering area is encircled by sixteen tipis with a large firepit in the center. All classes are held sitting on the ground under these majestic trees, or under shade tarps that we have set-up. At night we camp together, either in the tipis or in tents that we each bring.
During the days we are a gathering of women and children studying, teaching, learning, networking, and talking about plants, healing, and healthy lifestyles. When the sun goes down we become a playful and celebratory group, chatting, chanting, singing, showing off our talents, drumming and dancing into the night around the campfire.
We are a group of 350-400 women and children and we gather to learn from each other, to nurture and nourish each other, to take a break from our daily lives, to regenerate, refresh, dance, frolic, talk plants, and most of all, to have a REALLY GOOD THYME together!
Each session is a separate event. Do join us for one, two, or all sessions!”
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Scottish Highland Games
presented by Caledonian Club of San Francisco
Saturday-Sunday, August 30-31, 8:30AM-6:00PM
Alameda County Fairgrounds, 4501 Pleasanton Avenue, Pleasanton
Adults 1 day $20, 2 day $27, Children 12 - 17 and Seniors 65+ $12, 11 and under Free
Parking $8
“One of the world's largest Celtic Festivals. Thirty pipe bands. World Championship Heavy Events and Amateur, Woman's and Masters Invitational. Western Highland Dancing Championships. Living History - Mary Queen of Scots, Highland Warriors, Roman Legion and Invading Vikings. Gathering of Clans. Celtic Heritage - Fiddling, Harping and Singing. Six stages continuous entertainment - traditional to Celtic Rock. Children’s Glen, Scottish Country Dancing. Irish Step dancing. Birds of Prey. Sheep Dog Trials. Clydesdale Horse Team. Five-A-Side Soccer, Rugby and Shinty Tournament. Whisky Tasting. British food and drink. Five buildings with 100 + Vendors.”
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Songs of the Sea Cards
crafting workshop with Toy Jalanugraha
Sunday, August 31, 11:00AM-5:00PM
Castle in the Air 1805 Fourth Street, Berkeley, 510-204-9801
$80 includes materials
register in advance - class limited to 10 students
“These charming moveable cards are inspired by mermaids, whales, and Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus. You’ll learn to make the collaged background, cut your figures, and attach them to a moveable wheel to animate the scene. Then build your front layer of paper to make the cards three-dimensional. Embellish with Dresden trim and ephemera of your choice to complete your treasure, and you’ll be hearing the mermaids’ voices floating to the surface and calling to sailors and all lovers of the sea.”
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Forest Therapy Guide Training
with TreeGirl (Julianne Skai Arbor)
Monday-Friday, September 1-5
Sugarloaf Ridge State Park, 2605 Adobe Canyon Road, Kenwood
$800 plus $35 camping fee
“Learn how to lead people on shinrin-yoku walks.
An immersive five-day training at beautiful Sugarloaf Ridge State Park.
Shinrin-yoku is a term that means ‘taking in the forest atmosphere’ or ‘forest bathing.’ It was developed in Japan during the 1980s, and has become a cornerstone of preventive health care and healing in Japanese medicine.
Our approach to Shinrin Yoku Forest Therapy combines leisurely walks on gentle paths under forest canopy with guided activities and meditations to help you open your senses, hone your intuition, and experience the forest as you never have before. We draw upon mindfulness meditation practices, and the techniques of deep nature connection mentoring.
In an unhurried way, allow your feet to wander. Shinrin-yoku is not about exercise. It is not about hurry. It is about being alive in all your senses and trusting that the forest and other landscapes upon which you wander hold something good for you.
Be one of an international group of 22 people who will discover the inner secrets of planning and leading shinrin-yoku walks.
This is the first step toward meeting the standards of certification by shinrin-yoku.org as a shinrin-yoku guide.
Researchers primarily in Japan and South Korea have established a robust body of scientific literature on the health benefits of spending time under the canopy of a living forest. Now their research is helping to establish shinrin-yoku and forest therapy throughout the world.
The idea is simple: if a person simply visits a natural area and walks in a relaxed way there are calming, rejuvenating and restorative benefits to be achieved.
We have always known this intuitively. But in the past several decades there have been many scientific studies that are demonstrating the mechanisms behind the healing effects of simply being in wild and natural areas. For example, many trees give off organic compounds that support our NK (natural killer) cells that are part of our immune system's way of fighting cancer.
The scientifically-proven benefits of Shinrin-yoku include:
Lowered blood pressure
Lowered pulse rate
Reduced cortisol levels
Increased vigor
Reduced anger
Reduced depression
Just as impressive are the results that we are experiencing as we make this part of our regular practice:
Deeper and clearer intuition
Increased flow of energy
Increased capacity to communicate with the land and its species
Increased flow of eros/life force
Deepening of friendships
Overall increase in sense of happiness
shinrin gals tree
Become a Guide!
Learn a powerful approach to connecting people with nature and a path to wellness:
The 10 gates of perception and activities to open and improve them
Listening to the land to find the shinrin-yoku activities it supports
Choosing and getting to know a trail
Building your shinrin-yoku trail map
Cultivating mindfulness in the wild
Practicalities of building your referral network
Over 60 specific activities that you can use and adapt for the place where you work
Core routines of deep nature connection
Expressive arts activities
Fundamentals of nature connection mentoring
Our unique framework for the Way of the Guide
Much more...
Your guides Amos Clifford, Lindsey Mitchell, Pamela Wirth and TreeGirl (Julianne Skai Arbor), along with guest speakers and other guides, will lead you on a fun, challenging, and deeply nourishing journey of discovery.”
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Much Ado About Sebastopol
Saturday-Sunday, September 13-14, Saturday 10:00AM-6:00PM, Sunday 10:00AM-5:00PM
Ives Park, 7400 Willow Street, Sebastopol
Adults $12, Ages 6-14 $7, Under 6 Free
“Join us for Sebastopol's very own Renaissance Faire and support local public schools and programs!
Ives Park in the center of Sebastopol, is transformed into the town of Fenford in 16th century England. The locals are celebrating the apple harvest, and Queen Elizabeth and her extensive court pay a visit to honor these humble citizens.
As a visitor to our Faire, wander around and interact with a myriad of villagers from 1578, make herbal soap or try your hand at weaving while listening to a wandering minstrel… enjoy some ice cold lemonade while watching the falcons and learning about their role in Renaissance farming, sit back and take in a short Shakespeare performance while feasting on a hearty, rustic lunch.
Come celebrate the Feast of St. Michael (Michaelmas) - when rents are due, wages are paid, and the crops have been gathered and stored for the coming Winter. It's time for the people of the little town of Fenford to relax and enjoy some well-earned recreation, while giving thanks for a bountiful harvest.
Queen Elizabeth has been out hunting with her courtiers, and her Master of Horse, Robert Dudley, The Earl of Leicester has arranged a surprise for her. He intends to lead her back to his manor by way of the celebration. Here she will join the revels of her loving subjects, and be entertained in their lusty, country fashion.”
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Casa de Fruta Renaissance Faire
Saturdays-Sundays, September 13-14,10:00AM-6:00PM,
and each weekend through October 12
10021 Pacheco Pass Hwy 152, Gate 6, Hollister (south of Gilroy)
$25 Adults, Children under 12 Free! Parking $10
Discounted tickets available through the website
“Our little village of Willingtown comes to life as our annual Market Faire welcomes talented and exotic performers from throughout the globe to our streets and stages. The Entertainment is non stop all day.
The streets and stages boast music and dance from traditional Morris and English Country, to Celtic and Gypsy Tribal. Swashbuckling swordfighters render women defenseless with their charm and skill.
The original form of Renaissance theatre is played out on the Royal Garden stage in the form of the hilarious Commedia Dell Arte performed by the renowned troupe, Commedia Volante.
Foolishness and fun rule the day as ever popular favorites, Moonie the Magnif’cent and BrooN bring their unique brand of mischief and humor to the Fools stage. The town is buzzing as the villagers prepare for a visit from Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth and the most famous Privateer of the time, Sir Francis Drake. Happy peasants, crooked Constables, gossiping washerwomen, and merry maidens fill the streets with revelry as the festivities begin. Seven stages boast non stop entertainment. For a complete list of shows, click on The Stages category. Meet all of the Theme Characters, Guilds and Musicians that fill the streets on our Theme Characters, Guilds and Musicians pages.”
CAYA Sprouts will be at the Faire on Saturday, October 11!
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Gatsby Summer Afternoon at Dunsmuir House
presented by the Art Deco Society
Sunday, September 14, 1:00-6:00PM
Dunsmuir Hellman Historic Estate, 2960 Peralta Oaks Court, Oakland
See website for ticket information
“Our annual, wonderful ‘five-hour time-travel vacation’: antique cars, dancing to the Royal Society Jazz Orchestra, bathing beauties - and hundreds of vintage-attired, picnicking guests, including YOU! Tickets will go on sale in July.”
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The Curandera/o's Toolkit: Fall Series
a twelve week series
with Atava Garcia Swiecicki
Thursday, September 18, 6:30-9:00PM
and eleven more Thursdays through December 4
Ancestral Apothecary, 3798 Grand Avenue, Oakland
$550, $100 deposit due by September 1 to reserve space.
“Learn healing skills steeped in ancient wisdom to provide basic health care to yourself and your family.
This class will highlight herbal medicine, but we will also incorporate massage, meditation, and other aspects of curanderismo to learn how to care for our physical, emotional and spiritual health.
Class time will include hands-on experience learning how to make different herbal medicines and we will also learn and practice curanderismo techniques, such as the limpia (energetic cleansing ceremony).
In this class, each participant will assemble their own ‘toolkit’ of herbal remedies for home and family use including: herbal tinctures, salves, cordials, and more!”
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Fabulosa Fest
Thursday-Sunday, September 25-28
Spinning Wheel, Forest Route 1S30, Groveland (near Yosemite)
See website for registration details
“The Fabulosa Collective creates fund-raising parties where diverse groups of women and friends come together to celebrate Women-centered arts and raise money for LGBTQ-oriented causes. Fabulosa is an inclusive feminist fundraising gathering for women, their families and friends of all genders.
Fabulosa was initially the idea of Dawn Huston, who is the owner of the most diverse ‘dive bar’ on the planet, performance space and watering hole, El Rio in San Francisco. She formed the Fabulosa Collective with original members Judea Eden and Jenny Hoyston. Eden is a nutrition specialist and a San Francisco blues-folk singer. Hoyston is a West Coast promoter, DJ and the bandleader of the women’s experimental ensemble Erase Errata.
The Fabulosa Collective continues to grow and seek out new members who love to make beautiful things happen.
Fabulosa Proceeds
Our community is stunning, diverse and deserving of nurture. During financially tough times, many organizations that serve our LGBTQ community need additional help to ensure that their work remains possible. Fabulosa recycles much-needed funds back into the LGBTQ community by donating all proceeds to charities that serve the Bay Area and beyond.”
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KVMR Celtic Festival and Marketplace
Saturday-Sunday, September 27-28,
Saturday 10:00AM-10:00PM, Sunday 10:00AM-8:00PM
Nevada County Fairgrounds, 11228 McCourtney Road, Grass Valley
See website for ticket details
Parking $5
“The 18th annual KVMR Celtic Festival and Marketplace mixes Celtic music and magic with world-class musicians, dance, pageantry, living history, falconry, athletics, storytelling, jam sessions and shopping. The outdoor event takes place Saturday and Sunday, September 27, and 28 in Grass Valley, California at the Nevada County Fairgrounds, a bucolic setting on 100 acres among giant ponderosa pines . There are eight stages and performance areas. Our main stage hosts many of the best Celtic musicians on the world stage.
As late summer begins to cool, the Nevada County Fairgrounds will be transformed into a Celtic village where world-famous Celtic musicians perform, shopping and dining opportunities abound and O'Dea's Irish Pub celebrates the change of season. Hundreds of regional performers, singers, bagpipers, actors, jugglers and storytellers roam the fairgrounds.
Musicians are encouraged to bring their instruments and join in with jam sessions and workshops scheduled throughout the weekend. Revelers make music into the night in the campgrounds complete with tall trees and a lake.
History buffs explore encampments of Guilds who re-create points and places in time. Royalty and their subjects demonstrate how peasants and gentry lived in Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Exciting and educational, the Celtic Animals exhibit houses falcons, eagles, hawks, owls, sheep and ponies.
Amateur and professional athletes test their strength and skill in Scottish Games. Children are kept engaged with arts and crafts, story telling, and romping in a straw bale castle. Seniors are admitted an hour before the event opens on Sunday and treated to scones and tea. The festival is disabled accessible. Camping and RV hookups are available on-site.”
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Turlock Holistic Expo
Saturday, October 4, 10:00AM-6:00PM
Stanislaus County Fairgrounds, 900 N. Broadway, Building E-2, Turlock
Free
“FREE admission, FREE seminars, FREE entertainment!!
This is a fantastic day of fun! There's a large marketplace with over 50 vendors.
There will be Holistic healers, Reiki, intuitive readers, psychics, aura camera plus much more. There's also a market place with Native American jewelry and handcrafted items, crystals, sage, unique jewelry, art, candles, nutritional products and samples and more.”
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Mysteries of Samhain 2014: Eurydice and Orpheus a Wild Requiem
a Reclaiming Retreat
Friday-Monday, October 10-13
Mendocino Woodlands, Campsite 3, 39350 Little Lake Road, Mendocino
see website for registration details
“Share in four days of Reclaiming style, Earth-based spirituality, magic, and community!
Bay Area Reclaiming ritual planners invite you to join us in the redwoods at Mendocino Woodlands as we weave a web that crosses the generations.
2014 theme - Eurydice and Orpheus: a Wild Requiem
Mysteries of Samhain is a do-it-ourselves, community-style camp. This is a magical intensive, not a festival or a drop-in camp. We ask that people plan to attend the entire event (unless advance arrangements are made) and be committed to creating camp culture.
Reclaiming is an inclusive tradition. Folks new to Reclaiming are welcome. This is a community retreat, not a festival or a drop-in camp. We ask that people plan to attend the entire event (unless advance arrangements are made) and be committed to creating camp culture.
All adults, as well as teens with parent or guardian, are welcome! We also welcome younger kids with parent - however, this camp will not be offering separate kids' activities. You do not need prior magical classes or Reclaiming training. We ask that all participants agree to work within Reclaiming's Principles of Unity. Reclaiming events are drug- and alcohol-free except for legal and prescription medications.
The Mendocino Woodlands are a state park operated by a local non-profit. The site is located just far enough inland from the town of Mendocino to avoid coastal fog. The camp is set among a mature Redwood/Douglas Fir forest, creating a beautiful, peaceful setting. A small creek runs alongside the camp.”
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Folsom Renaissance Faire
Saturday-Sunday, October 18-19, Saturday 10:00AM-6:00PM, Sunday 10:00AM-5:00PM
Folsom City Lions Park, 50 Natoma Street, Folsom
$16 adults, $11 students, seniors (55+) and children 13-17, $8 ages 6-12, under six free
parking $4
“There is no better way to end the faire season than with a full our party at the Folsom Renaissance Faire. This year's theme for the event is Shakespeare's Muse. The rising young star of London's theatre scene, Will Shakespeare, faces a scourge like no other: a paralyzing bout of writer's block, while the great Elizabethan age of entertainment unfolds around him. What Will needs is a muse - and in an extraordinary town whilst on progress with Her Most Royal Majesty, Queen Elizabeth, he finds himself surrounded by numerous quirky characters who draw him into an amazing, dramatic adventure of action and love. Their stories make their way into his plays and into our hearts.
Revel in the amazing antics of the Elizabethan town filled with myriad of characters and vignettes resembling from Shakespeare's most beloved plays, featuring re-enactment of the 1500s with theater, music, magic, swordplay, puppetry.
Mark your calendars and come and enjoy. Costumes are wonderful and can greatly enhance your faire experience, yet they are certainly not required for attendees.”
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