Festivals, Fairs & Fun

"TOMORROW NEVER KNOWS," a locally produced program, will premiere May 27 at 9 p.m. at the Palm Theatre. The made-for-television, retro-future-underground program by Santa Barbara writer-producer Peter Hyoguchi includes portions made by Arroyo Grande production company Moving Target Productions, including a puppet featurette. The hour-long program consists of the half-hour featurette interspersed with short animations and music videos. Cost is $3. Info: 473-9371.

WEST COAST KUSTOMS CAR SHOW will fill Paso Robles City Park downtown with pre-1961 classic cars, cars, and more cars May 28-30. Friday night from 7 to 9 pm they’ll be "Cruisin’ Paso Robles" down historic Spring Street, with a free 1950’s-style Street Dance from 8 to 11 pm at Park and 12th streets. "Show ‘n Shine" with classic cars on display runs all day Sat. and Sun. Info: 238-0506.

THE CALIFORNIA FESTIVAL OF BEERS will pour the products of more than 50 microbreweries May 29 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Avila Beach Resort. The festival will include music by two groups, the Guy Budd Band and Delilah Jones. Nonalcoholic beverages are free. Tickets are $35, which includes 25 one-ounce tasting tickets. Special designated driver tickets are $10, which include lunch. Proceeds benefit Hospice of SLO County. Free bus service from SLO available by advance reservation only. Info: 544-2266.

TWO-PERSON BEACH VOLLEYBALL TOURNAMENT will bring some great local players to the beach volleyball courts at the end of Wadsworth Avenue in Pismo Beach. Men’s "A" players will compete May 29, with Men’s "B" tournaments set for July 10 and Aug. 10. The cost is $30 per team, plus $15 one-time membership fee per player. Signups begin at 8 am, with play starting at 9 am. Info: 481-8334.

ARROYO GRANDE STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL will fill Arroyo Grande Village with 500 booths–60 of them food booths, many featuring the berry of honor–May 29-30 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Some 200 commercial booths and 200 arts and crafts booths are included. A kiddie carnival offers games and prizes, and continuous entertainment is planned in 10 areas and stages. Free shuttle service (handicapped accessible) will be provided from parking lots at Arroyo Grande High School, the Woman’s Club, and the lot at Grand Ave. and Oak Park Blvd. Info: 473-2250.

ANTIQUE SHOW will be presented by Coast Union High School Boosters May 29-30 from 10 am to 4 pm at the Cambria Vets Hall, 1000 Main St., featuring 20 exhibitors. Info: 995-1810.

AN ANTIQUE GASOLINE ENGINE SHOW will be presented at the Way Station next to the Cayucos Post Office on D Street in Cayucos May 29-30 from 9 am to 4 pm, featuring running gas engines that can pump water, cut wood, grind corn and blow bubbles. Free. Details: 995-1200.

A PEDDLERS FAIRE will take place May 29-31 at North Ocean and Cayucos Creek in Cayucos. Info: 995-1200.

PISMO BEACH STREET FAIRE, BEACH PARTY AND FARMERS MARKET will kick off a new name and new future location for the Farmers Market held in Pismo Beach every Tues. through Sept. 7. A grand opening is set for June 1 at Dolliver and Main, featuring entertainment by Valerie Johnson and the Blues Doctors, her last local performance before she joins a summer tour of Big Brother and the Holding Company. Info: 473-9025.

BUDWEISER CLYDESDALE TEAM will feature eight perfectly matched horses pulling the bright red Budweiser wagon at the Soto Sports Complex, 1275 Ash St. in Arroyo Grande, June 2 from 11 am to 2 pm. Details: 473-5474.

THE SANTA MARIA ELKS RODEO AND PARADE is four days of rodeo action June 3-6 at the rodeo grounds off Santa Maria Way east of U.S. 101, plus the popular Saturday parade down Broadway. In addition to action with professional cowboys, the event features the popular children’s Mutton Bustin’ event. Info: 922-6006.

1ST ANNUAL "HOT LINKS" GOLF TOURNAMENT AND SILENT AUCTION will be held June 4 at Avila Beach Resort, a fundraiser for Hotline’s free 24-hour telephone support service. Registration starts at 11:30 a.m., with a shotgun start at 1 p.m. Entry fee is $100 including barbecue, and sponsors are also needed. Barbecue dinner tickets are available for $25, including a silent auction. Details: 544-6016.

STOP CHILD ABUSE SKATE-A-THON will bring children from throughout the county to Flippo’s Skating Rink in Morro Bay June 4 from 7 to 10 pm, as a benefit for the SLO Child Development Center, a child abuse prevention, intervention and treatment program serving "at risk" children. Details: 544-0801.

CAMBRIA GARDEN TOUR is your chance to visit six beautiful coastal gardens June 5, with gourmet treats at each stop provided by Cambria’s finest restaurants. The self-guided tour begins at 9 am at the Cambria Pines Lodge with a complimentary continental breakfast. Tickets for this benefit for the New Dawn Center, a Montessori-based school, are $22.50. Tickets and info: 927-1328.

"STORIES ‘ROUND THE FIRE" featuring storyteller Kirk Henning will be presented every Sat. evening from 7 to 8 pm during the summer at Cayucos Beach south of the pier, June 5-Sept. 4. Relax around the campfire and listen to tales from around the world. A marshmallow roast follows the performance. No event June 19 and Aug. 7. Suggested donation is $2. Info: 995-2867.

3 ON 3 BASKETBALL CLASSIC TOURNAMENT will be held in downtown SLO in and around Mission Plaza June 5-6, sponsored by SLO Parks and Rec Dept. and Rim Rattler. Players from around the state will compete in six divisions, and a special kids court will also be available for players under age 10. The cost is $95 per team of three, including tri tip barbecue dinner, T-shirt and more. A slam dunk contest and 3 point shootout will also be held. Info: 541-4377.

AFTERNOON OF EPICUREAN DELIGHTS will be a lovely afternoon of food sampling, wine and beer tasting, live music and a wine auction June 6 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. This benefit for EOC Health Services will be held in the Chapman House gardens overlooking the ocean, and features some of the county’s best food and wines. Tickets are $50. Details: 544-2478.

SPRING GARDEN TOUR sponsored by the Grover Beautiful Committee will include a chance to visit some impressive Grover Beach backyard and frontyard gardens June 6. This self-guided tour is free. Info: 473-4568.

THE CALIFORNIA AIDS RIDE will bring 2,500 cyclists into Paso Robles June 8, then will roll into Oceano June 9 before leaving to continue the 560-mile ride to Los Angeles. Proceeds benefit HIV and AIDS services at the L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center and the San Francisco AIDS Foundation. Info: (310) 274-7800.

WILD HORSE WINEMAKER DINNER featuring film critic Leonard Maltin as guest speaker will be held June 11 as a benefit for the SLO International Film Festival. The location is Hoppe’s at Marina Square, 699 Embarcadero in Morro Bay. Tickets are $95, and must be purchased by June 1. Tickets and info: 546-FILM.

RACE UNITY WALK to celebrate the oneness of humankind will be held June 11-13. Walkers will go in two directions, from San Simeon and from Lompoc to SLO, and people are welcome to join in any part of the walk. A Race Unity Day Celebration featuring dance and live music is set for June 13 from 1 to 3 pm at SLO Mission amphitheater in downtown SLO. Info: 543-6190.

"SNOW IN JUNE" CHILDREN’S CARNIVAL will be presented free June 12 from 10 am to 2 pm at El Morro Churchof the Nazarene, South Bay Blvd. and Santa Ysabel in Los Osos. Features games, magic, clowns, Zoo to You wildlife, education on child abuse prevention, and tons of snow. Info: 528-0391.

CAMBRIA ARTS AND CRAFTS FAIR will feature a wide variety of handmade crafts from all over California, plus live music June 12-13 from 9 am to 5 pm at the Cambria Veterans Hall parking lot, 1000 Main St. Free. Info: (559) 877-3474.

THE PASO ROBLES AIRSHOW returns to the Paso Robles Airport June 13 from 11 am to 4 pm, sponsored by the Estrella Squadron of the Confederate Air Force and the city of Paso Robles. Includes aerobatic demonstrations, parachutists, wing walkers, warbirds, experimental aircraft, static displays of aircraft, and a parade of antique cars. Starts at 11 a.m. Details: 466-1212.

9-HOLE GOLF TOURNAMENT to benefit the American Heart Association’s Angina research will be held June 13 at 9 am at Eagle Creek Golf Course in Atascadero. Tickets are $30 including lunch, and non-golfers are also invited to play. Info and tickets: 461-7500.

HOSPICE DU RHONE is the Rhône wine celebration (formerly called Raisin’ Rhônes) to benefit Hospice of SLO County set for June 17-19 at the Mid-State Fairgrounds in Paso Robles. The event includes a bowling tournament, tastings, classes, workshops, feasts, music, and an auction. info: Mat Garretson, 239-1205.

THE PISMO BEACH CAR SHOW will fill the downtown with more than 800 antique, classic, custom, and street rod cars June 18-20. Info: 773-4382.

FLEA MARKET will be held by the Elwin Mussell Senior Center, 510 East Park Ave. in Santa Maria, June 19 from 9 am to 1 pm, featuring crafts and a bake sale along with a wide variety of clothing and household goods. Proceeds benefit senior programs and events. Info: 925-0951.

FIRE STATION GRAND OPENING CELEBRATION featuring free fire engine rides is set for June 19 at 10 am at the new fire station at 701 Rockaway Ave. in Grover Beach. Info: Grover Beach Fire Dept., 473-4594.

THE CAYUCOS GEM, JEWELRY & MINERAL SHOW will be held for the 40th year June 19-20 at the Cayucos Veterans Hall. The show will feature Cambria residents Richard and Cheryl Sittinger and 15 other dealers from Arizona, Oregon, and around California. Precious gems on display and for sale will include a rare 9.25-carat black opal from Australia. Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Admission and parking are free.

BARBECUE POTLUCK AND BIRD WALK sponsored by the Morro Coast Audubon Society is set for June 21 at Rancho El Chorro. The bird walk begins at 5 pm, with the barbecue and potluck at 6 pm. Bring something to grill and a side dish to share, plus your own place setting. Rancho El Chorro is located off Hwy. 1 near the County Board of Education offices, not to be confused with El Chorro Regional Park. Details: 528-8662.

ATASCADERO LAKESIDE WINE FESTIVAL will be held June 25-26 at Atascadero Lake Park, featuring a winemakers dinner and auction Friday evening and tastings of local fine wines and live music by the Mighty Croon Dogs on Saturday. A benefit for the Charles Paddock Zoo. Details: 461-WINE.

A PEDDLERS FAIRE will take place July 2-4 at North Ocean and Cayucos Creek in Cayucos. Info: 995-1200.

FOURTH OF JULY WEEKEND in Morro Bay will be held July 2-4, including Art in the Park. Tidelands Park will see a spectacular fireworks display and live music July 4. Info: 772-4467.

SOUTH COUNTY SKATE PARK GRAND OPENING will be held July 3, featuring skateboarding and in-line skating demonstrations. Details: 473-4580.

AN INDEPENDENCE DAY PARADE and community celebration will be held in Templeton July 3. Details: 466-2044.

A SAND SCULPTURE CONTEST, parade, barbecue and fireworks will be held July 4 in Cayucos. Info: 995-1200.

A FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION will be held July 4 in the Village of Arroyo Grande, featuring a chili cook-off, country crafts, contests, a band concert and more. Info: 473-2250.

CHILI-FEST COOKING CONTEST will bring local amateur chili chefs to Arroyo Grande’s City Hall July 4 from noon to 1 pm, with judging by public vote. Contestants pay no entry fees. Taste kits including ballots are $2. A children’s carnival will also be held, featuring a variety game booths; $1.50 for unlimited game playing. Details: 473-5474.

SECOND ANNUAL COMMUNITY BLOCK PARTY will be held at the Santa Barbara County Fairgrounds in Santa Maria July 4, featuring a fireworks show, food, and lots of local entertainment. Details: 925-8824.

THE KCBX CENTRAL COAST WINE CLASSIC returns for the 15th year with a variety of events July 5-11. It kicks off July 5 at noon with Zinfandel & Zydeco in the Mission Plaza, followed by special tastings and dinners (some black-tie affairs) at Hearst Castle and various other wineries and restaurants, a golf tournament, a vineyard symposium, a cooking demonstration, auctions, dinner dances, and symposiums, winding up with the Grand Wine Tasting at 1 p.m. July 11 at Avila Beach Resort. Prices vary, and several packages are available. Info: 781-3026.

SPACEWEEK celebrates the exploration of space with a youth dance, model rocket launching, exhibits, star-gazing, and other activities for the entire family July 14-18 in Santa Maria area. Info: Roger Evans, 733-2439.

108TH ANNUAL SANTA BARBARA COUNTY FAIR is set for July 14-18 in Santa Maria, with educational displays, vintage machinery, destruction derby, performing cat show and more, plus music: War, Kenny Chesney, Smokin’ Armadillos, Cadillac Cowboys, and Williams and Ree. Details: 925-8824.

BENT AXLES 18TH ANNUAL CRUISE and BBQ Weekend is the vintage car show along Broadway and the adjoining streets in Santa Maria. More than 2,000 street rods are expected for the event July 16-18. Info: Jerry Gaskill, 934-2607.

15TH ANNUAL CENTRAL COAST RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL will feature costumed actors who bring the Middle Ages to life July 17-18, 24-25 at El Chorro Regional Park. History Revisited, the nonprofit organization that produces the event, has plans for workshops during the week between the two weekends. Admission is $7.50, or $5 for seniors and ages 6 to 12. Info: 1-800-688-1477.

5 ON 5 SAND SOCCER TOURNAMENT for ages 14 up is set for July 17 from 8 am to 5 pm at Pismo Beach. The divisions are women’s, men’s and co-ed. The fee is $50 per team before July 10, $75 after that. Info: 489-6331.

SPORTS CARD SHOWS with a chance to buy, sell or trade will be held at the Arroyo Grande and Woman’s Club Community Center, 211 Vernon St., July 18, Aug. 29 and Sept. 19 from 10 am to 3 pm. Admissionis $1. Info: 473-5478.

A PORTUGUESE FESTIVAL is scheduled for July 24-25 at the Cayucos Veterans Hall at the pier. Info: 995-1200.

20TH ANNUAL SLO TRIATHLON is set for July 25, with an emphasis on completion rather than competition. Includes a .5 mile swim, 15.3 mile bike course and 3.7 mile run, with lunch and a vendors’ fair at the finish line at Sinsheimer Park. The entry fee is $42, or $56 for non-residents of SLO. No race day registration. Details: 781-7300.

THE OBON FESTIVAL is a celebration of traditional Japanese foods, arts, and culture July 25 at the Santa Barbara County Fairgrounds in Santa Maria. Info: 925-8824.

MERCHANTS STREET FAIRE is set for July 25 in Morro Bay, featuring food, entertainment, arts and crafts on Morro Bay Blvd. Info: Morro Bay Merchants Association, 784-2677.

CALIFORNIA MID-STATE FAIR will bring ZZ Top, Third Eye Blind, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Olivia Newton-John, Alabama, Brandy, Tim McGraw, Def Leppard, Reba McEntire, Britney Spears, David Sanborn and Hiroshima to the Grandstand Stage during its July 28-Aug. 8 run at the fairgrounds in Paso Robles. PRCA Championship Rodeo, Monster Trucks, and the Arena Cross are also planned in the Grandstand Arena. Wide variety of entertainment offered on the free stages. Also on tap are commercial exhibits as well as displays of arts and crafts of all kinds, livestock, rodeo competition, the carnival, food booths galore and much more. For more info, call the ticket office at 238-3565 or 1-800-909-FAIR.

MOZART SALUTE will be held at Chapman House-By-The-Sea in Shell Beach July 31 at 4 p.m., featuring a champagne buffet dinner, a live auction of the 1999 Mozart Festival painting by Robert Burridge, a silent auction of rare wines, and live jazz. Tickets are $30: 781-3008.

BASIL FESTIVAL will celebrate this versatile culinary herb Aug. 7 at Sycamore Farms on Hwy. 46 West in Paso Robles, featuring a variety of basil treats including pesto, basil ice cream and basil beer, plus live music by the Mighty Croon Dogs. Admission is $2 for this KCBX public radio benefit. Details: 238-5288.

DINOMANIA SUMMER CARNIVAL for children of all ages will feature game booths and a barbecue Aug. 13 from 10 am to 2 pm at Elm Street Park in Arroyo Grande. The cost is $1.50 for unlimited game playing. Details: 473-5474.

THE ANNUAL WARBIRD ROUNDUP brings military aircraft from World War II to the present to the Santa Maria Airport for aerial demonstrations, flybys, and static displays Aug. 14-15. Includes food and merchandise booths. Info: Santa Maria Museum of Flight, 922-8758.

THE ST. ANTHONY’S CELEBRATION will bring people of Portuguese ancestry from all over California to Pismo Beach for a celebration of their patron saint Aug. 14-16. Info: 773-4382.

A CLASSIC CAR SHOW will be held in Atascadero Aug. 20-21, with a Cruise Night, called "Hot El Camino Nights," set for Friday night and the car show on Saturday. Details: 466-2044.

ARROYO GRANDE KENNEL CLUB will hold its juried dog show Aug. 28-29 at the South Bay Community Center in Los Osos. Info: 528-4169.

GROVER BEACH ETHNIC STREET FAIRE/STONE SOUP WORLD MUSIC FESTIVAL will bring multi-cultural musical entertainment, ethnic food, a salsa contest, displays, games, arts and crafts, wine tasting, and more to Ramona Garden Park Aug. 28-29 from 9 am to 4 pm The Annual Dune Run-Run 5K/10K run through the streets and dunes will also be included. Info: 489-9091.

A DAY IN THE PARK is a family day of fun Aug. 30 at Waller Park in Santa Maria. Includes live entertainment, food booths, a car show, gymnastic demonstrations, face painting, a Santa Maria-style barbecue cookoff, and more. Info: Rob Ballew, 937-8521.

ORCHIDS AND ART is an event set for Sept. 3-4 at the South Bay Community Center in Los Osos. Details: 528-4169.

A PEDDLERS FAIRE will be held Sept. 3-5 at North Ocean and Cayucos Creek in Cayucos. Info: 995-1200.

THE CENTRAL COAST WINE FESTIVAL sponsored by the Arthritis Foundation will fill Mission Plaza in SLO with wine from about 30 local vineyards, microbreweries, and several restaurants Sept. 4 from noon to 4 p.m. A live auction also is planned. Proceeds benefit the Arthritis Foundation. Info: 541-1721.

INTERNATIONAL ORCHID SHOW features some of the most beautiful orchids in the world Sept. 4-6 in Morro Bay. Details: Baron’s Orchids, 772-1320.

In Concert

A GERMAN BOYS CHOIR, St. Martins-Chorknaben, will present a free "a capella" concert of sacred and secular music at St. Timothy’s Church on Kennedy Way in Morro Bay May 28 at 7:30 pm. A freewill offering will be taken to help pay their costs. Info: 772-5083.

2ND ANNUAL OCEAN JAM is an all-day outdoor concert set for May 29 at Paradise Beach Bar, 295 Grand Ave. in Grover Beach, featuring music by Shameless, Shed, Odyssey, Flammable Jammies, Swim, Fantasy Sandwich, Jim Keigman and the Scallawags, Need Machine and more, plus an open jam. Details: 473-0222.

LITTLE FEAT, ELVIN BISHOP AND BOOKER T. JONES will rock it up at the 6th annual K-OTTER Avila Beach Blues Festival May 30. Gates open at 1 p.m., and the show starts at 2 p.m. at the Avila Beach Resort. Book T. Jones and his band will open the show at 2 pm, with ElvinBishop and his band at 3:30 pm and Little Feat at around 5 pm. Tickets are available at Boo Boo Records, Cuesta College Public Events office and the Cal Poly ASI ticket office, or by phoning 1-888-VALLITIX. Info: 786-2570.

SAN LUIS CHAMBER ORCHESTRA will perform under the direction of Stephen Tosh at 3 p.m. May 30 at the Unity Christ Church, 1490 Southwood Drive, SLO. Admission is by donation. Info: Chris Kuzell, 925-1796.

BROWN BAG NOONTIME CONCERT will be presented free June 4 at 12:15 pm at First Presbyterian Church, Marsh and Morro streets in SLO, featuring the SLO High School Stage Choir, directed by Gary Lamprecht, with vocal jazz, pop, blues and show tunes. Doors open at 11:30 am for those bringing lunch. Info: 543-3070.

THE SLO COUNTY BAND will perform a free concert as part of the Paso Robles "Come Celebrate" Day in the downtown City Park June 5 from noon to 2:30 pm. The SLO County Band, directed by Sam Shliff, is continuing its 125-year tradition. Info: 543-5691.

SANTA MARGARITA STOMP will be presented June 5 from 8 to 11 pm at the Santa Margarita Community Hall on "I" Street, featuring Up in the Air and the Croon Dogs Trio. Tickets for this fundraiser for the open space preservation work of SMART and Life on Planet Earth are $10, or $20 per family, available at the door. Info: 438-5855.

THE VOCAL ARTS ENSEMBLE will feature favorite selections from past performances in their spring concert series before their summer tour of the British Isles. A performance is set for June 5 at 8 p.m. at SLO Mission; tickets are $10 to $20. A concert will also be presented June 6 at 3 p.m. at the First Baptist Church in Cambria; tickets are $15 to $20. Tickets: 528-1078.

"GREEN ROCKIN’," an outdoor concert fundraiser for the SLO Green Party, will be held June 6 from 1 to 5 pm at Swallow Creek Ocean Ranch in Cayucos. Performers include Cameron & Burnside, Bob & Wendy, Craig Nuttycombe and Glynn Lockwood. Tickets are $15; kids free. Directions and info: 544-1580 or 238-4454.

THE BELLES will bring their unique vocal style to a benefit concert at Bay Osos Montessori School June 12. The group is made up of four local singer-songwriters: Jaine Rice, Sidney Willson Young, Chrisanne Wollett and Jora Clokey. Info: 528-8112.

THE CENTRAL COAST CHILDREN’S CHOIR will fill SLO’s Old Mission with song at their season finale concert June 13 at 3 pm. The program includes American and Nordic music that the choir will sing at the Des Moines International Children’s Choir Festival in late June, plus folk songs from around the world. Tickets at the door are $6; free for children 12 and under. Info: 528-2646.

THE CROON DOGS TRIO will present a free outdoor concert at the historic Pozo Saloon June 13 from 1 to 5 pm, featuring electro-acoustic rock, R&B, blues, country and more performed by "Guitar Wizard" Billy Foppiano, singer/percussionist/guitarist Buffy Sharon Doran and bassist Geert de Lange. Info: 438-4225 or www.funlivemusic.com.

THE LIVE OAK MUSIC FESTIVAL brings 20 musical acts to Live Oak Camp on Highway 154 near Lake Cachuma June 18-20. Performers include David Lindley and Wally Ingram, Altan, Big Sandy and His Fly-Rite Boys, the Tony Furtado Band, Rosalie Sorrels and Utah Phillips, Yeska, California Cajun Orchestra, the Mighty Mighty Travelers, Karen Tyler, Sugar Daddy Swing Kings, Todalo Shakers, the Freight Hoppers, Ad Vielle Que Pourra and more, with master of ceremonies Joe Craven. Tickets are available for single days or for all three days including camping. This benefit for KCBX public radio also includes workshops, children’s activities, food, arts and crafts, storytelling and more. Tickets and info: 781-3030 or www.kcbx.org/liveoak.

SECOND ANNUAL POPS CONCERT will be presented by the Coastal Valleys Symphony and Master Chorale July 3 at Fess Parker Winery in Los Olivos. This concert to celebrate our nation’s birthday is becoming a Santa Maria tradition. Tickets are $50 for reserved tent seating, $25 general, $15 for those under 21, and free for children under 12. Tickets and info: 922-7748.

THE WORLD ASSOCIATION FOR SYMPHONIC BANDS AND ENSEMBLES will bring more than 2,000 conductors, composers and performers from all over the world to a conference at the Performing Arts Center July 5-11. Seventeen concerts are scheduled featuring familiar masterpieces and world premiers of wind and percussion selections. The International Youth Wind Orchestra will perform in concert July 11 at 1:30 pm at the Performing Arts Center. Some tickets are available at the PAC ticket office: 756-2787. Volunteers and homestay sponsors are also needed; call the WASBE office, 541-8000.

PEPPINO D’AGOSTINO AND JOE CRAVEN will perform at an outdoor concert July 10 at 6:30 p.m. at Castoro Cellars Winery in Templeton. D’Agostino is known for his acoustic guitar virtuosity, and Craven plays fiddle, mandolin, guitar and a world of percussion instruments. Tickets for this SLOFOLKS concert are $15; dinner will be available at an extra cost. Info: 544-1885.

THE CROON DOGS TRIO will present a free outdoor concert at the historic Pozo Saloon July 11 from 1 to 5 pm, featuring electro-acoustic rock, R&B, blues, country and more performed by "Guitar Wizard" Billy Foppiano, singer/percussionist/guitarist Buffy Sharon Doran and bassist Geert de Lange. Info: 438-4225 or www.funlivemusic.com.

THE CADILLAC COWBOYS will perform July 14 at the Santa Barbara County Fair in Santa Maria. Admission is free with paid admission to the fair. Info: 925-8824.

THE SMOKIN’ ARMADILLOS will perform July 15 at the Santa Barbara County Fair in Santa Maria. Admission is free with paid admission to the fair. Info: 925-8824.

BAD MOON RISING will perform a tribute concert to Creedence Clearwater Revival July 16 at the Santa Barbara County Fair in Santa Maria. Admission is free with paid admission to the fair. Info: 925-8824.

BLUES ROUND-UP, an outdoor music festival and dance, will be held in the North County by the SLO Blues Society July 17 from 5 to 11 pm, featuring a cool mix of hot local blues bands including the Blues Angels, the Mighty Croon Dogs, Karen Tyler, Blues Doctors, Guy Budd and Doc Stoltey. This benefit concert will take place at Paso Robles Hot Springs and Spa, off Hwy. 46 East. Tickets at the gate are $12, or $10 for SLO Blues Society members. Beer, wine and barbecue available; bring your own chairs. Details: 541-7930 or www.calpoly.edu /~khischke.

WAR will perform two concerts July 17 at the Santa Barbara County Fair in Santa Maria. Admission is free with paid admission to the fair. Info: 925-8824.

HEARTACHE TONIGHT will perform a tribute concert to the Eagles July 17 at the Santa Barbara County Fair in Santa Maria. Admission is free with paid admission to the fair. Info: 925-8824.

MOUNTAIN MUSIC: A Tribute to Country’s Best Vocal Groups will feature the songs of Alabama, Restless Hear, Little Texas, and more July 18 at the Santa Barbara County Fair in Santa Maria. Admission is free with paid admission to the fair. Info: 925-8824.

THE SLO MOZART FESTIVAL will bring an incredible variety of programs to concert venues all over the county, including the Performing Arts Center, SLO Mission, Atascadero Lake Pavilion, Chapel Hill and churches in Cambria and Los Osos July 23-Aug. 8. This year’s festival includes saxophone and guitar ensembles, choral music, chamber concerts, Russian folk music, jazz, piano duets, harp, and of course the Festival Orchestra with plenty of Mozart. Other activities include the Mozart Akademie and Akidemie, preconcert lectures and a variety of free Festival Fringe performances. Ticket prices range from $12 to $41. For a free ticket brochure, call 781-3008.

CALIFORNIA MID-STATE FAIR will bring ZZ Top, Tim McGraw, Def Leppard, Third Eye Blind, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Olivia Newton-John, Brandy, Alabama, Reba McEntire, Britney Spears, David Sanborn and Hiroshima to the Grandstand Stage during its July 28-Aug. 8 run at the fairgrounds in Paso Robles. A wide variety of entertainment will be offered on the free stages, including the Association, Smokin’ Armadillos, Rick Springfield, Little Anthony & the Imperials, Peter Frampton, Chris LeDoux, Three Dog Night, John Waite, John Coulee, War, 98 Degrees, Les Brown, Eddie Money, America, Loverboy, and Blackhawk. For more info, call the ticket office at 238-3565 or 1-800-909-FAIR.

THE CROON DOGS TRIO will present a free outdoor concert at the historic Pozo Saloon Aug. 8 from 1 to 5 pm, featuring electro-acoustic rock, R&B, blues, country and more performed by "Guitar Wizard" Billy Foppiano, singer/percussionist/guitarist Buffy Sharon Doran and bassist Geert de Lange. Info: 438-4225 or www.funlivemusic.com.

SLO SYMPHONY POPS BY THE SEA returns to the Avila Beach Resort Sept. 5 for their sixth annual celebration of the end of summer. Gates open at 2:30 p.m. for this 4 p.m. show. Tickets are available at chambers of commerce throughout the county beginning July 1; also at the PAC box office (756-2787) and the Symphony office (543-3533).

Gracing the Stage

"NO SEX PLEASE, WE’RE BRITISH" is a delightful comedy romp by Anthony Marriott and Alistair Foot that caps the 40th Santa Maria Civic Theatre season May 27-29. All performances are at 8 p.m. (no one is seated after the curtain rises) at the theater at 1660 N. McClelland in Santa Maria. Tickets are $8, available at Images Fine Photography, Cafe Monet, and the Cut Above in Santa Maria and Longs Drugs in Orcutt, or at the box office: 922-4442.

"THE WIZARD OF OZ" will be presented by the Studio of Performing Arts Drama Department at the Studio Theatre, 116 W. Branch St. in Arroyo Grande, May 27-June 6. Tickets for the all children’s cast shows are $9; tickets for the adult/children cast shows are $12. For exact dates, times, and reservations, call the theater at 473-0377.

"TONY N’ TINA’S WEDDING" is a unique play where the audience become the guests at the wedding. Complete with band, caterers, clergy, flowers, gowns, and the dysfunctional family, the audience is surrounded by organized chaos in this improvisational play by Artificial Intelligence. Charles Gill directs for the SLO Little Theatre May 27-June 12 at the City Playhouse, 888 Morro St., SLO. Tickets are $14 general, $12 students and seniors, $10 Thursdays at the box office: 786-2440.

"THE RIVALS" is a bright new version of a classic comedy set in Atlantic City in the Roaring ’20s on stage May 27-June 13 at the Great American Melodrama & Vaudeville on Highway 1 in Oceano. Shows are Wednesday through Sunday; times vary. Tickets are $13 and $16, with discounts for children, seniors, students, and active military personnel at the box office: 489-2499.

"PICASSO AT THE LAPIN AGILE," an award-winning comedy written by actor Steve Martin, will be performed by the Centerpoint Theatre Group as part of the "Wild and Crazy" Summer All-Comedy Spectacular May 27-July 8. Showtimes are 8 pm Thurs., Fri. and Sat., and 2 pm Sun. at 150 South St. in SLO. Tickets are $12, or $10 for students and seniors. Special $5 student price on Thurs. Info and reservations: 546-4908.

THE CHILDREN’S DANCE THEATER will perform the classic ballet "Swan Lake" May 29 at 2 pm at Cuesta Auditorium, featuring dancers under age 18. Tickets are $8. Info: Cyndi Malmen, 995-1939.

"WRONG TURN AT LUNGFISH," a poignant comedyabout the friendship between a blind college professor and a street-wise young woman who reads to him, will be presented by the Peninsula Players on Fridays and Saturdays, June 4-July 3, at 8 p.m. (except June 18), with a matinee at 2 p.m. June 20, in the Campus Theatre at SLO High School. Contains adult language and situations. All seats $10. Reservations and info: 547-1742.

"SLEEPING BEAUTY," a production of Creative Dancin’ directed by Karen Garman and featuring 200 local children, will be presented June 4 at 7 pm and June 5 at 3 pm at Cuesta Auditorium. Tickets are $8.50, or $6.50 for under age 6. A $1 donation from each ticket goes to the Cuesta Auditorium Preservation Fund. Tickets are available at Boo Boo Records and the Dance Shop in SLO. Info: 772-3694.

"THE UNSINKABLE MOLLY BROWN" by Meredith Brown will dance across the musical comedy stage with Titanic energy and song-filled fun June 10-July 3, kicking off the PCPA Theaterfest Summer Season. Performances are set for the Festival Theatre in Solvang under the stars. Info and tickets: 922-8313.

"THE TAVERN" begins on a dark and stormy night when a wild wind blows all sorts of oddball characters into Freeman’s Tavern in this madcap production June 17-Sept. 11 at the Great American Melodrama & Vaudeville on Highway 1 in Oceano. Starting July 10, it plays on alternate evenings with "A Witless Rogue." Shows are Wednesday through Sunday; times vary. Tickets are $13 and $16, with discounts for children, seniors, students, and active military personnel at the box office: 489-2499.

THE PIONEER PLAYERS will present another of its new Readers Theatre productions–informal staged readings by actors from throughout the county–June 26 at 7:30 p.m. at 1339 Riverside Ave., Paso Robles. Free. Info: 239-1638.

CENTRAL COAST SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL will present "The Merchant of Venice" July 2-July 31, and "A Comedy of Errors" July 9-Aug. 7 at the SLO City Playhouse, 888 Morro St. in downtown SLO. Performances are Thurs.-Sat. at 8 pm and Sun. at 2 pm. Outdoor performance are also scheduled for Camp Ocean Pines in Cambria Aug. 21-22. Tickets are $14, or $12 for students and seniors, available at the door and at the SLO Chamber of Commerce. For exact schedule and reservations, call 546-4224.

"A WITLESS ROGUE" is Duke Phillipo, who wants to marry his cousin Laura to secure his crown, but Laura loves the honest and humble Paolo. Meanwhile, the evil Count Torriana wan’ts to help–but who? Find out July 8-Sept. 11 at the Great American Melodrama & Vaudeville on Highway 1 in Oceano. Starting July 10, it plays on alternate evenings with "The Tavern." Shows are Wednesday through Sunday; times vary. Tickets are $13 and $16, with discounts for children, seniors, students, and active military personnel at the box office: 489-2499.

"A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM" by William Shakespeare will be presented by PCPA Theaterfest, bringing an enchanted forest, midsummer magic and glorious poetry to life. Performances are set for July 8-28 under the stars at the Festival Theatre in Solvang and July 30-Aug. 14 at the Marian Theatre in Santa Maria. Tickets and info: 922-8313.

"CAROUSEL" by Rodgers and Hammerstein spins a touching story of a beautiful girl who lost her heart to a handsome carnival barker, presented by PCPA Theaterfest July 9-25 at the Marian Theatre in Santa Maria and July 29-Aug. 14 under the stars at the Festival Theatre in Solvang. Tickets and info: 922-8313.

FAIRY TALE THEATRE will be presented free by the Santa Maria Civic Theatre as a gift to local children, featuring "Red vs. the Wolf" by Judy Wolfman and "Free To Be...You and Me" by Marlo Thomas. Performances are scheduled for Fri., Sat. and Sun. July 9-25. Showtimes are 7 pm Fri., 10 am and 2 pm Sat. and 2 pm Sun. No reservations, so come early. Details: 922-4442.

"THE COMPLETE HISTORY OF AMERICA-ABRIDGED," by Adam Long, Reed Martin and Austin Tichenor of "Shakespeare Abridged" fame, will be presented by Centerpoint Theatre Group as part of their "Wild and Crazy" Summer All-Comedy Spectacular July 15-Aug. 7. Showtimes are 8 pm Thurs., Fri. and Sat., and 2 pm Sun. at 150 South St. in SLO. Tickets are $12, or $10 for students and seniors. Special $5 student price on Thurs. Info and reservations: 546-4908.

THE PIONEER PLAYERS will present another of its new Readers Theatre productions–informal staged readings by actors from throughout the county–July 24 at 7:30 p.m. at 1339 Riverside Ave., Paso Robles. Free. Info: 239-1638.

"KARAOKE QUEENS OF THE ST. JAMES," by Leo Cortez with original music by Steven Tosh, will be performed by Centerpoint Theatre Group as part of their "Wild and Crazy" Summer All-Comedy Spectacular Aug. 9-Sept. 4. Contains adult language, situations and nudity. Showtimes are 8 pm Thurs., Fri. and Sat., and 2 pm Sun. at 150 South St. in SLO. Tickets are $12, or $10 for students and seniors. Special $5 student price on Thurs. Info and reservations: 546-4908.

"AMADEUS" by Peter Shaffer, a story of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Antonio Salieri, will be presented by PCPA Theaterfest Aug. 19-Sept. 5 under the stars at the Festival Theatre in Solvang and Sept. 10-25 at the Marian Theatre in Santa Maria. Tickets and info: 922-8313.

"GREASE", a hot musical comedy set in 1959 full of hilarious songs and rollicking dances, will be presented by PCPA Theaterfest Aug. 20-Sept. 5 at the Marian Theatre in Santa Maria and Sept. 9-Oct. 3 under the stars at the Festival Theatre in Solvang. Tickets and info: 922-8313

THE PIONEER PLAYERS will present another of its new Readers Theatre productions–informal staged readings by actors from throughout the county–Aug. 28 at 7:30 p.m. at 1339 Riverside Ave., Paso Robles. Free. Info: 239-1638.

 Take Art

"A VIRTUAL TOUR: 1883 SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY" is an exhibit of text and images from Myron Angel’s book "History of San Luis Obispo County," on display May 27-June 30 in the Kennedy Library at Cal Poly, including digital reproductions of more than 30 drawings of everyday life in SLO County in 1883. Free. Info, including exhibit hours: 756-2305.

ART IN THE PARK is an outdoor art show featuring works by 100 artists and craftspeople May 29-31 from 10 am to 5 pm at the Morro Bay Park on Morro Bay Blvd. and Harbor St. Free admission for this scholarship fundraiser held by the Morro Bay Art Association. Info: 772-2504.

MEL WYSOCK will show his oil, acrylic and watercolor paintings at Visions Gallery, 900 Embarcadero in Morro Bay, with an artist’s reception set for May 29 from 4 to 7 pm. Info: 772-5083.

DON WALLIS will exhibit his portraits of local personalities May 29-July 30 at New Frontiers Natural Foods, 896 Foothill Blvd. in SLO. Details: 544-0989.

KCBX WINE CLASSIC LABEL FINALISTS will be displayed at Johnson Gallery, 547 Marsh St. in SLO, June 1-July 2. Info: 541-6600.

HAL DAYTON is the featured artist in an exhibition at the Cayucos Art Association Gallery June 1-30. An artist’s reception will be held June 6 from 1 to 3 p.m. The gallery is located in the Cayucos Veterans Hall at the pier. Details: 528-1665 or 995-2049.

"SUMMER DAYS AT VILLAGE ART" is the fourth annual El Camino Art Association exhibit on display June 1-30 at Village Art, 121 W. Branch St., Arroyo Grande. Twenty-seven artists will display and sell their works in oils, acrylics, watercolors, and ink. A reception is set for June 4 from 6 to 8 p.m. with hors d’oeuvres and music. Regular hours are 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m to 5 p.m. Info: 489-3587.

CAYUCOS MOSAIC SCULPTURE by Peter Ladochy celebrating the original people of Cayucos will be dedicated in a ceremony June 5 from 11 am to 2 pm at Hardie Park on "B" Street in Cayucos. This "sculpture in the round" was commissioned by the Cayucos Mural Society. A symposium on the indigenous people of Cayucos will be held June 4 from 7 to 9:30 pm at the Cayucos Vets Hall, featuring talks by various experts.

"REFLECTIONS–THE ART OF ROBERT REYNOLDS" is an exhibit of recent watercolor paintings of spectacular local scenery by a nationally known SLO artist set for June 6-July 17 at Johnson Gallery & Framing Studio, 547 Marsh St. His subjects include the peaceful places of SLO County, from the vineyards of Edna Valley to the reflective ponds of Santa Rosa Creek. An artist’s reception will be held June 6 from 3 to 7 p.m.. Gallery hours are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday. Details: 541-6600.

ARTS RECOGNITION AWARDS will be presented in a celebration recognizing local folks for their outstanding contributions to SLO County arts June 13 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Performing Arts Center lobby. This event is organized by the SLO County Arts Council, 544-9251.

"WATERCOLOR EXHIBITION: A LYRICAL APPROACH" is a show by the Central Coast Watercolor Society, an affiliate of the SLO Art Center, set for June 22-July 18 at the SLO Art Center, 1010 Broad in Mission Plaza. An artists’ reception will be held June 25 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Art Center, 1010 Broad St. in Mission Plaza. Open every day except Monday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., with free admission. Details: 543-8562.

"CURATOR’S CHOICE: AN INVITATIONAL PRINTMAKERS EXHIBIT" will be on display at the SLO Art Center June 26-Aug. 1. An artists’ reception is scheduled for June 26 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Art Center, 1010 Broad St. in Mission Plaza. Open every day except Monday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., with free admission. Details: 543-8562.

PASO ROBLES ART ASSOCIATION will hold its annual June Art Faire fundraiser June 26 from 10 am to 3 pm at the Call-Booth House Gallery, 1315 Vine St. in Paso Robles. Features collectibles, original paintings, books and art and craft demonstrations, plus a raffle for original paintings. Info: 238-5473.

DAVE NORTON will exhibit his paintings July 1-31 at the Black Pearl Coffee House, 230 Pomeroy in Pismo Beach. Details: 773-6631.

MARSHA DUENAS will exhibit her artwork in a show presented by the Paso Robles Art Association July 7-Aug. 15 at the Call-Booth House Gallery, 1315 Vine St. in Paso Robles. An artist’s reception will be held July 11 from 2 to 4 p.m.. Regular gallery hours are Wednesday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.. Details: 238-6950.

PATSY CHAMP is the featured artist in an exhibition at the Cayucos Art Association Gallery, with an artist’s reception set for July 18 from 1 to 3 p.m.. The gallery is located in the Cayucos Veterans Hall at the pier. Details: 528-1665.

EMILY POLK will exhibit her drawings and paintings in a "Curator’s Choice" show July 20-Aug. 15 at the SLO Art Center, 1010 Broad in Mission Plaza. An artist’s reception will be held July 23 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Art Center, 1010 Broad St. in Mission Plaza. Open every day except Monday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., with free admission. Details: 543-8562.

"CRAFTMAKERS ’99" is the 23rd annual juried exhibit of fine contemporary craft set for Aug. 7-Sept. 12 at the SLO Art Center. An artists’ reception will be held Aug. 7 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Art Center, 1010 Broad St. in Mission Plaza. Open every day except Monday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., with free admission. Details: 543-8562.

PAULA ZIMA will be the featured artist at a Summer Open House and artist reception scheduled for Aug. 8 at Johnson Gallery & Framing Studio. This is a benefit for Cuesta College Friends of the Library. Details: 541-6600.

OIL, PASTEL & ACRYLIC GROUP AND THE PHOTO SOCIETY are two groups affiliated with the SLO Art Center whose members works will be featured in an exhibition Aug. 17-Sept. 12 at the SLO Art Center, 1010 Broad in Mission Plaza. An artists’ reception will be held Aug. 20 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Art Center, 1010 Broad St. in Mission Plaza. Open every day except Monday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., with free admission. Details: 543-8562.

MARGUERITE LYON will show her artwork in an exhibit presented by the Paso Robles Art Association Aug. 18-Sept. 26 at the Call-Booth House Gallery, 1315 Vine St. in Paso Robles. An artist’s reception will be held Aug. 22 from 2 to 4 p.m.. Regular gallery hours are Wednesday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.. Details: 238-6950.

CUESTA COLLEGE FACULTY EXHIBITION will feature the works of the college’s art department in the Cuesta Art Gallery Aug. 27-Oct. 4. A reception for the artists Aug. 27 at 6:30 p.m. will be followed by an artists’ talk at 8:15 p.m. Info: 546-3202.

ART IN THE PARK will feature a variety of arts and crafts at the Morro Bay City Park Sept. 4-6. Details: 772-2504.

LINDA BRAUSE is the featured artist in an exhibition at the Cayucos Art Association Gallery, with an artist’s reception set for Sept. 5 from 1 to 3 p.m.. The gallery is located in the Cayucos Veterans Hall at the pier. Details: 528-1665.

ROBERT BURRIDGE exhibits his aqua media paintings in a show called "Bob Land" set for Sept. 18-Oct. 17 at the SLO Art Center, 1010 Broad in Mission Plaza. An artist’s reception will be held Sept. 18 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Art Center, 1010 Broad St. in Mission Plaza. Open every day except Monday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., with free admission. Details: 543-8562.