Festivals, Feasts & Fairs

PALM SPRINGS--The seventh annual Nortel Palm Springs International Film Festival kicked off Friday, and continues through Jan. 21. More than 100 films from around the globe are screened in downtown Palm Springs venues. $7 per screening, panel discussion or seminar; $6 for seniors. (619) 778-8979.

SOLVANG--The Solvang Royal Scandinavian Inn hosts the Blues Festival, Jan. 12-14. The first-time event features: Mick Martin and his Blues Rockers, 6 p.m. Friday (with dinner); Louis Thomas and Pieces of Eight, 6 p.m. Saturday (with dinner), and Crossroads, 10 a.m. Sunday (with brunch). Festival passes for all three concerts and meals: $55. Hotel packages start at $275 per couple. (800) 624-5572.

NAPA VALLEY--When the hillsides turn yellow with blooms, it is time for the Napa Valley Mustard Festival, Feb. 3-March 30. Among the highlights: “Mustard Magic,” the opening event at 7 p.m. Feb. 3 at Markham Vineyards in St. Helena, featuring wine, food, art and a silent auction, and “The Masterpiece,” a showcase of Napa Valley foods, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. March 16-17 at the Napa Valley Exposition in Napa. Other events include: “Mustard in Bloom III,” a celebration with performances, auctions, tastings and dinner, Feb. 16-17 at the Culinary Institute of America in St. Helena, and “Mustard on the Silverado Trail,” an open house weekend with more than 30 wineries, March 9-10. Information and ticket prices: (707) 938-1133.

PALM DESERT--Treat your taste buds to “A Taste of the Valley at Sun City,” 11:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Feb. 4. The event, featuring tastings from more than 25 restaurants, is in the clubhouse parking lot of Del Webb’s Sun City Palm Desert on Washington Street. Free admission; tastings start at $2. Ice carving, entertainment and kids’ activities also offered. (619) 772-5350.

Call listed phone numbers for directions.