California Corner: Festivals, Feasts & Fairs

Menlo Park--The 16th annual Connoisseurs’ Marketplace celebrates the Bay Area’s culinary, visual and performing arts on July 20-21. The festival will feature soul, jazz, R&B; and swing music, a juried art show, international cuisine, chef demonstrations, wines and microbrews, a food market, crafts and a kids’ fun zone. Santa Cruz Avenue. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. both days. Free. (650) 325-2818, www.miramarevents.com.

Santa Maria--More than 250 street rods will roll at the Bent Axles Cruise & Barbecue July 19-21. Best viewing will be along South Broadway and at the historic Santa Maria Inn downtown. Noon-8 p.m. July 19; 8 a.m.-8 p.m. July 20;

10 a.m.-2 p.m. July 21. Free; Sunday barbecue $7. (805) 934-2607, www.santamaria.com.

Modesto--Get ready to boogie at the Xclamation Fest July 20. About 80 bands will fill 10 stages throughout downtown Modesto. 21 and older. 3 p.m.-midnight. $17.50 in advance; $20 at the gate. (800) 331-6255, www.modestoxfest.com.

Marysville--Eight blocks will be closed off for the California Peach Festival July 20. Get your fill of peach treats and check out the entertainment, a 5K Run/Walk and children’s activities. D Street downtown. Noon-midnight. Free. (530) 741-6666, www.capeachfestival.com.

Santa Barbara--The 29th annual Santa Barbara Greek Festival July 27-28 will include food, entertainment, dancing and boutiques. Oak Park.

11 a.m.-7 p.m. both days. Free. (805) 683-4492, www.saintbarbara.net.

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Schenden’s e-mail address is Lkschenden@hotmail.com.