Festivals, Feasts & Fairs

SAN LUIS OBISPO--A finger-lickin’ competition takes place at the March 7 Thursday Night Farmers’ Market on Higuera Street. Area restaurants participate in the 11th annual Rib Cook-Off, 6-9 p.m., and diners vote for their favorites. In addition, there are arts and crafts vendors. (805) 781-2777.

MARICOPA--The third annual Gusher Days celebration is March 7-10 in Maricopa Park at Stanislaus Street and California 166. Arts and crafts and other fair activities begin at 8 a.m.; a carnival begins at 4 p.m. Thursday-Friday, and noon on Saturday-Sunday. A parade travels through downtown at 10 a.m. Saturday. (805) 769-8049.

SANTA BARBARA--In observance of Arbor Day, the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden hosts “A Celebration of Trees,” 10 a.m.-3 p.m. March 9. The family event features a noontime concert under the oaks (bring a picnic), tree tours at 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m., and a children’s hour at 12:30 p.m. $3, general; $2, seniors and teenagers; $1, kids 5-12; free for those under 5 and members. 1212 Mission Canyon Road. (805) 682-4726.

TEMECULA--Celebrate the coming season at the Temecula Spring Fair, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. March 9 in Paloma del Sol Park, 32099 de Portola. Handmade crafts, kids’ activities and food booths featured at the free event. (909) 694-6410.

SAN FRANCISCO--Experience the rich culture of the Emerald Isle at the fifth annual San Francisco Celtic Music and Arts Festival, March 9-10 in the Festival Pavilion, Fort Mason Center. Traditional and contemporary cultural highlights include folk dancing, and Celtic arts and crafts and folklore. Noon-11 p.m. both days. $15 in advance; $20 at the door; $12, seniors and students; free for those under 12. (415) 392-4400 or (415) 474-1040.

Call listed phone numbers for directions.