North Coast:May

Boonville Beer Festival - May 6, 2006

Mendocino County Fairgrounds Highway 128 Boonville, CA

Schedule: 1–6 p.m.

Cost: Tickets $25 advance, $30 at the gate, non-drinkers $5, kids 12 and under free

Primary Phone: (707) 895-2337

Known by microbrew fans as a premier beer festival, this year’s event will feature suds from dozens of microbreweries. More than 2,000 friends of the brew are expected to enjoy the natural beauty of the Anderson Valley, the selection of fine ales, and a variety of local food, music, and crafts.

Boulder Creek Art, Wine & Music Festival - May 27 - 29, 2006

Downtown Boulder Creek, CA

Schedule: 11 a.m.–6 p.m.

Cost: Free admission

Primary Phone: (831) 338-7099

Web site: www.bcba.net

The three-block downtown of this historic logging community becomes an outdoor gallery, with upwards of 200 vendors selling everything from collectibles to vintage clothing, fine arts and crafts from local artists, and tastings from more than 15 local wineries. Plus, performance

ZinFest - May 20, 2006

Lodi Lake Park 1301 W. Turner Rd. Lodi, CA

Schedule: Noon–8 p.m.

Cost: $20 per person in advance, $25 at the gate

Primary Phone: (209) 367-4727

Web site: www.zinfest.com

Sip and sample your way through the offerings of more than 40 local wineries and a dozen regional restaurants as you listen to live music from Herman's Hermits ("I'm Henry VIII, I Am"), rising country star Tim Murphy, a Santana tribute band, and Mick Martin & the Blues Rockers. Also on tap are arts and crafts, cooking demonstrations, wine seminars, wine trivia and games, and an on-site wine store.