North Bay:May

The Great Contra Costa Crystal Fair - May 6 - 7, 2006

Civic Park Community Center 1375 Civic Dr. at Broadway Walnut Creek, CA

Schedule: Sat. 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Sun 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Cost: Admission $4, free for children under 12

Primary Phone: (415) 383-7837

Web site: www.crystalfair.com

More than 35 vendors converge during this biannual event, a magical mix of gems, minerals, jewelry, crystals, and healing arts.

Himalayan Fair - May 20 - 21, 2006

Live Oak Park 1300 Shattuck Ave. at Rose St. Berkeley, CA

Schedule: Sat. 10 a.m.–7 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–5:30 p.m.

Cost: $8, $15/couple, $20/trio; free for youth 12 and under

Primary Phone: (510) 869-3995 (information)

Web site: www.himalayanfair.net

A mountain bazaar experience in the East Bay, with authentic Himalayan dances, showy costumes, music, and arts and crafts. Be sure to try the Nepali curries and Tibetan momos—tasty veggie-filled potato dumplings.

Satsuki Arts Festival & Bazaar - May 20 - 21, 2006

Berkeley Buddhist Temple 2121 Channing Way at Shattuck Berkeley, CA

Schedule: Sat. 4–9 p.m., Sun. noon–7 p.m.

Cost: Free

Primary Phone: (510) 841-1356

Web site: www.berkeleysangha.org

It's time again for the blooming of azaleas—satsuki, in Japanese—and this family-oriented event celebrates with multicultural entertainment, and a big taiko drumming summit. You'll also find plenty of kids' games and booths selling ethnic foods, arts and crafts, and plants and flowers. On Sunday, the San Jose Taiko group makes a thundering appearance.