Festivals, Feasts & FairsMONTEREY--An eclectic variety of...

Festivals, Feasts & Fairs

MONTEREY--An eclectic variety of music, dance, food and hands-on arts activities fill 35 venues around downtown Monterey at the First Night celebration, 3 p.m.-midnight Dec. 31. $8. Purchase admission buttons as early as possible for the family-oriented event. (408) 373-4778. SAN DIEGO--Another First Night party rings in the new year at the San Diego Concourse Convention and Performing Arts Center, 202 C St. “San Diego’s First Night and 10,” featuring about 200 entertainers, ethnic foods, and other festivities, is 4 p.m.-12:30 a.m. Dec. 31. In advance: $7, general; $3, kids. At the door: $10, general; $5, kids. (619) 280-5838.

JAMESTOWN--Say goodby to ’94 and welcome in ’95 while riding the rails through the Gold Country. A four-hour ride on the New Year’s Eve Party Train, featuring live music, hors d’oeuvres, party favors and more, departs at 8:30 p.m. from Railtown, 5th Avenue at Reservoir Road. $125 per couple; $70 per single. Reservations required. (209) 984-3953. SANTA CRUZ--Hundreds of varieties of mushrooms are showcased at the 21st annual Santa Cruz Fungus Fair, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Jan. 14-15. Also featured: talks by mushroom experts, cooking demonstrations using mushrooms, and mushroom foods and gifts. At the Harvey West Clubhouse in Harvey West Park, 326 Evergreen. $4, general; $3, students and seniors; free for kids under 12. (408) 429-3773.

CARLSBAD--Start getting in shape for the San Diego Marathon, returning to Carlsbad on Jan. 22. A half-marathon and 5K run/walk are also scheduled. All races begin at the Plaza Camino Real shopping center. Check out the All About Fitness Expo, 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Jan. 21 at the Del Mar Fairgrounds. Run registration before Jan. 21: $37, marathon; $24, half-marathon; $17, 5K run/walk. After Jan. 21: $3 more for each event. (619) 792-2900.

Call listed phone numbers for directions.