Calendar: events for January 2010

SAN FRANCISCO

20th anniversary of the arrival of the sea lions

When, where: Jan. 15, Pier 39

Highlights: After the Loma Prieta earthquake in 1989, sea lions began to congregate on Pier 39’s K dock. They enjoyed their hide-out so much, they’ve stayed for two decades -- and counting. The famous pinnipeds will be out, as will docents from the Marine Mammal Center and the educational Whale Bus.

Cost: Free

Info: (415) 705-5500, www.pier39.com

SAN DIEGO

San Diego Restaurant Week

When, where: Jan. 17-22, throughout San Diego County

Highlights: San Diego’s sixth annual restaurant week features excellent deals at more than 200 of the county’s restaurants, including some of the region’s top names in dining.

Cost: $20, $30 or $40 per person for a three-course prix-fixe dinner, not including beverages, tax and gratuity. Reservations are recommended.

Info: (619) 236-1212, www.san

ELKO, NEV.

National Cowboy Poetry Gathering

When, where: Jan. 23-30, various venues

Highlights: The 26th annual event will draw rough-and-tumble wordsmiths of all kinds, from Western spoken-word artists to Creole zydeco musicians. Catch ‘em at shows, singalongs and workshops.

Cost: Varies based on event; average for performances is $20 to $40. Bring two friends to get a free Deluxe Pass valued at $50; bring four friends to get two free Deluxe Passes.

Info: (888) 880-5885, www.westernfolklife.org

BEAVER CREEK, COLO.

Bon Appétit Master Chef Classic

When, where: Jan. 28-30, Beaver Creek Resort

Highlights: Beaver Creek Resort and Bon Appétit magazine team up to present this annual event that features a signature Grand Tasting, Master Chef Challenge, cooking classes, culinary seminars and upscale dinners. Big-name chefs, including Alain Allegretti, Cat Cora and Michael Psilakis, are slated to participate. Come ready to ski and eat.

Cost: Ticket prices for individual events range from $40 to $150; lodging packages are available. A portion of the proceeds will benefit victims of domestic violence.

(888) 920-2787, www.beaver

CALISTOGA, CALIF.

Calistoga Wellness Month

When, where: Through Jan. 31, throughout Calistoga

Highlights: The Napa Valley town honors its health-conscious heritage with a month of wellness-related packages and specials at hotels and spas. The Calistoga Wellness Festival takes place Jan. 9 (health screenings, chiropractic demos, mini-massages, yoga classes and more), and Women’s Wellness Week happens Jan. 9 to 15 (hikes, Pilates, massage, yoga and the like).

Cost: Varies per event; many are free.

Info: (707) 942-6333, www.calistogavisitors.com

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