California Corner

FERNDALE--The Firemen’s Games Feb. 20 include a volunteer firefighters’ competition, bucket brigade, hose coupling and water polo. Main Street. Noon to 3 p.m. Free. (707) 786-9909.

IONE--Locals will whip up their favorite concoctions at the Buena Vista Chili Cook-off on Presidents Day, Feb. 21. Buena Vista Restaurant, Store and Saloon, 5864 Buena Vista Road. 1 p.m. until chili runs out. Free. (209) 274-4753.

CRESCENT CITY--Watch Dungeness crabs go for the gold from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Feb. 20 at the World Championship Crab Races. There will also be a crab feed ($11; 11 a.m. until gone), children’s games, microbrews and an art fair. Free. (800) 343-8300.

SOLVANG--The Flying Leap Storytelling Festival Feb. 25 and 26 will include Spooky Stories ($7) at 8 p.m. Friday; free story swapping at noon Saturday; and a Late Night Cabaret 9:45 p.m. Saturday ($5). Event passes begin at $4; all-day pass $30. (888) 595-9533.

PALM SPRINGS--The Black History Month Parade and Fair begins 10 a.m. Feb. 26 with the parade along Palm Canyon Drive. The fair, with music, crafts and food, will follow in Ruth Hardy Park. Noon-6 p.m. Free. (760) 416-5715.

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