California Corner

LAKE TAHOE--Pack your mittens for Snowfest, Feb. 25-March 5, and its array of events, including ice carving and snow sculpture contests, parades and even a Polar Bear swim in the lake. Opening ceremonies, 7-8:30 p.m. Feb. 25, include music, a torchlight skiers parade and fireworks display at Squaw Valley USA. More than 50 events are planned during the 10-day festival, from dog sledding to search-and-rescue contests. Call for times and locations. Free. (775) 832-7625.

LAKEPORT--Lake County musicians will converge downtown Feb. 26 at the Soper-Reese Community Theater for the Winter Music Festival. Two seatings are planned, at 1:30 and 7 p.m. 275 S. Main St. $8; $6 seniors and students. (800) 525-3743.

SANTA CRUZ--Watch about 40 teams concoct their specialties Feb. 26 at the 18th annual Clam Chowder Cook-Off on the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Then get a taste of the competition, whether Boston (white) or Manhattan (red) chowders. $6; tasting kits go on sale at 10 a.m., tastings begin at 1 p.m. (831) 423-5590.

SAN DIEGO--Ethnic diversity will be highlighted Feb. 26 at the ninth annual Heritage Day Parade. The parade will begin at 10 a.m. at 49th Street and Logan Avenue, winding up at 286 Euclid Ave., where a marketplace will feature arts and crafts, food and entertainment. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. (619) 286-8887.

ESPARTO--Go nuts at the Capay Valley Almond Festival Feb. 27. Festivities include music, food, arts and crafts and a car show. On Main Street and in Esparto Park. 7 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. (530) 787-3242.

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