California Corner

SAN DIEGO--Join the St. Patrick’s Day celebration March 13, beginning at 11 a.m. with a parade down 5th Street. The parade will end at Balboa Park, Laurel and 6th streets, where there will be music, food, merchandise booths and children’s activities 1:30-5 p.m. Free. (619) 268-9111.

NAPA--It’s that time of year when mustard plants blanket the wine country and residents host the Mustard Festival. Taste mustard recipes, gourmet dishes and wines at the Marketplace March 13-14. There will also be crafts, music and carriage rides. Napa Valley Exposition, 575 3rd St. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. $7, $2 ages 12 and younger. (707) 259-9020.

MURPHYS--This Gold Country town was named for two prospector brothers whose heritage is celebrated each year with Murphys Irish Days. On March 13, Irish music, step dancing and food will fill the streets. Noon parade, Main Street. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. (800) 225-3764.

PALM SPRINGS--Visit the 15th century at the seventh annual Crossroads Renaissance Festival March 19-21. Food, crafts, puppet shows and theater. Frances Stevens Park, North Palm Canyon Drive and Alejo Road. Friday and Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. $8, $6 seniors and students, free under 6. (800) 320-4736.

YOUNTVILLE--A Taste of Yountville, on March 20, will feature food and wine tastings and entertainment by jazz and blues bands. Tastes will be $1 per food ticket and $3 per wineglass throughout the six-block area of town on Washington Street. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. (707) 944-0904.

Schenden’s e-mail address is lkschenden@msn.com.