LAGUNA BEACH--The Sawdust Festival, the beloved arts...

LAGUNA BEACH--The Sawdust Festival, the beloved arts and crafts event held annually in the shade of a eucalyptus grove, has returned to its scenic site at 935 Laguna Canyon Road through Aug. 25. The festival, celebrating its 30th year, is open 10 a.m.-10 p.m. daily (except July 4 and Aug. 25, when it closes at 6 p.m.). Works by more than 200 artists are offered, plus entertainment, hands-on workshops, children’s art activities and food. $5, general; $4, seniors; $1, kids 6-12; free for those 5 and under. (714) 494-3030.

SANTA BARBARA--Wondering how to celebrate Bastille Day this year? Join other Francophiles for two days of joie de vivre at the ninth annual French Festival, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. July 13-14 in Oak Park. Featured at the fe^te francaise: French food and drink; two stages of music, dance and more; a Napoleon look-alike contest; French cultural and travel displays; a poodle parade; classic French cars; and a produce and flower market. Free. Take the Pueblo or Mission exits from U.S. 101. (805) 564-PARIS.

NEVADA CITY--Three evenings of art and music are offered during Summer Nights in Nevada City, 6-9 p.m. July 17, 24 and 31. Held in the historic downtown district, the free outdoor festival also celebrates the era of the 1920s-’40s with classic cars and costumed merchants. Free shuttle service is available from the Nevada County Government Center. (800) 655-NJOY.

SANTA CRUZ--Now in its 15th year, Shakespeare Santa Cruz presents theater among the regal redwoods, July 18-Sept. 1. This year’s season offers Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night” and “Pericles,” and Moliere’s “Tartuffe.” The plays are staged in repertory, in outdoor and indoor venues at the Performing Arts Complex at UC Santa Cruz. Single tickets: $15-$21; subscriptions: $36-$51. (408) 459-2159.

HEALDSBURG--Pedal through the vineyards of the Alexander, Dry Creek and Russian River valleys in the 10th annual Healdsburg Harvest Century Bicycle Tour on July 20. Register for the 62.1-, 37- or 22.5-mile rides, all ending with an Italian lunch, a marketplace of local products and a bike expo. The tour begins in the morning (7-9 a.m.) at Healdsburg Elementary School. Advance reservations recommended. $22, early reservations; $32, late reservations. (800) 648-9922.

Call listed phone numbers for directions.