California Corner : Festivals, Feasts & Fairs

PISMO BEACH--Two-step your way to the fourth annual Pismo Beach Western Days, Sept. 18-20. Free downtown events noon to 5 p.m. Sat.-Sun. include shows by square dancers, Western dancers, fiddlers and Mexican folklorico dancers; an American Indian Cultural Festival; a Western art show and pony rides. For a $30 badge, Western dance fans can participate in Fri. and Sat. night dance-arounds in several Pismo Beach locations, and can choose four out of 34 workshops to take on Sat. Advance

badge purchase required. (805) 773-4356 or (805) 489-2885.

MOJAVE--Old-time fun, like arm wrestling and horseshoe contests, are planned for the 58th annual Mojave Gold Rush Days, Sept. 18-20. The Gold Rush Queen is crowned at a dance at 9 p.m. Fri. in the Veterans Building, 15555 O St. A parade at 10 a.m. Sat. starts at Mono and K streets, ending at Kern County Park. A free all-day fair follows in the park, and another dance is at 9 p.m. The fair resumes 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sun. Western-themed shows by the Bounty Hunters, a talent show and pet parade are featured. Dance admission: $5 singles, $8 couples. (805) 824-2481.

SAN JOSE--Celebrate the coming of a new season at Aki Matsuri, an annual fall festival,noon-5 p.m. Sept. 19 at the Wesley United Methodist Church, 566 N. Fifth St. The Japanese festival features traditional food and culture, childrens’ crafts and games and a fresh produce booth. Free. (408) 295-0367.

OCEANSIDE--The 11th annual Oceanside Harbor Days, Sept. 19-20, promises an itinerary of maritime merrymaking. The celebration, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. both days at the Oceanside Harbor on Harbor Drive, features a Nail-and-Sail boat-building contest, a military amphibious exhibition, childrens’ activities, an art walk, ethnic food booths, a crafts fair and the Miss Southern California Beauty Pageant. Free. (619) 722-1534.

SANTA BARBARA--A showcase of the area’s restaurants and wineries is featured at the 11th annual Taste of the Town benefit, noon-3 p.m. Sept. 20 in Riviera Park, 2030 Alameda Padre Serra. Live jazz complements the culinary offerings. $30 before Sept. 18; $35 at the door. Proceeds support the Arthritis Foundation, Santa Barbara Branch. (805) 687-1592.

JULIAN--String’s the thing at the 22nd annual Julian Banjo, Fiddle, Mandolin and Guitar Contest, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Sept. 20. In addition to the competitors, acoustic music is played by the New Expression Band, John Moore and Bluegrass Etc., Banjo Mania and others. In Frank Lane Park, three blocks north on Main Street from downtown. Gates open at 8 a.m. $6 general; $3 if you’re over 65 or under 10. Bring picnics, blankets and lawn chairs, but no dogs. (619) 282-8380 or (619) 280-9035. Proceeds benefit local charities.