SoCal Photo Opps

SoCal Photo Opps February 2012

2012-02-01T08:09:00.000-08:00

Elephant Seals North of San Simeon - The Elephant Seal Rookery located about 7 miles North of San Simeon on Hwy. 1 is still active with new babies. Based on my visit Jan. 29th, you will be able to see activity through the end of February.

Monarch Butterflys Grover Beach - Monarch Butterflys mirate to this spot every year. The come to the Eucalyptus Groves which are part of the Pismo State Beach Campground along Hwy 1. I felt the numbers are less than previous years but you can still photograph them through the end of February. Take a long lens.

Salton Sea can be great for birds as they migrate to warmer locations. Both Brown and White Pelicans come here. Check out the Sonny Bono National Wildlife Refuge for large flocks for birds in their ponds. Best time is now through January. The refuge winters up to 30,000 snow, Ross's, and Canada geese, and 60,000 ducks from November through February. Marsh birds and shorebirds account for more than 6,000,000 use-days each year. Endangered species observed on the refuge include the southern bald eagle, peregrine falcon, California brown pelican, Yuma clapper rail, and desert pupfish. http://www.fws.gov/refuges/profiles/index.cfm?id=81631
Borrowing Owls can also be found in the area: http://www.allaboutbirds.org/NetCommunity/page.aspx?pid=1771
More information: http://gocalifornia.about.com/od/capalmsprings/a/salton_sea.htm

Through Apr 22 - Surf Design 1967-1984 - Santa Monica
Exhibition of rare and antique surfboards. They will have a shaping room with numerous blanks that will be worked on aby several well known shapers during the exhibition. California Heritage Museum, 2612 Main St. www.californiaheritagemuseum.org

February 2012

Through April 22 Santa Anita Race Track - Arcadia
Early mornings before the races, go to Clockers Corner where you can see all the horses going to the track for practice. Get great close up shots and images of the horses runing the track. Also on weekends FREE tram tour, Board the Seabiscuit Tram at Clockers Corner and take a tour of the stable area, receiving barn and Paddock Gardens. See Seabiscuit's original stall and barn, areas used during the filming of the movie Seabiscuit, the jockeys room, silks room, saddling paddock and walking ring with its topiaries and statuary. Meet the equine star of Seabiscuit, Fighting Furrari, who played the primary role in the film. See the carriage horses in their home under the grandstand. Truly a unique experience you will not soon forget. Tours depart at 8:30 a.m. and 9:45 a.m. every Saturday and Sunday during the Santa Anita season, excluding Super Bowl Sunday and Derby Day. Season ends April 22nd. http://www.santaanita.com

Feb 4 - CARe Show 2011 - San Juan Capistrano
Car Show, exhibits, live music, food and vendors. Proceeds benefit the Capistrano Animal Rescue Effort. At San Juan Capistrano Sports Park. Coming South or North on Fwy 5. Exit Ortega Hwy and go west until dead end(toward Mission SJC).Turn left (south) at the light onto Camino Capistrano Turn right (west) at the light onto Del Obispo Go west toward the ocean for about 1 mile Turn left at the light onto Del Avion www.capoanimalrescue.com 8AM-2PM over 500 cars on display.

Feb 4-5 - Civil War Battles - Ft. Tejon
Experience the day to day life on a mid 1860’s California U. S. Army post. Both military and civilian impressions welcomed. Period correct attire only. Saturday and Sunday will provide period activities that will allow military participants to experience barracks life and training of the typical soldier. Enlisted military personnel will sleep in Fort Tejon’s original barracks, Friday and Saturday nights, officers and female civilians will be housed in the officers quarters. http://www.forttejon.org/2ndcal2011.html

Feb 10-11 - Tour de Palm Springs - Palm Springs
Various cyclists rides, bike expo, live entertainment and food court. Downtown.
www.tourdepalmsprings.com

Feb. 11 - Dr. Goerge Memorial Car Show - Indian Wells
More than 1000 custom and classic cars, trucks and motorcycles. Indian Wells Tennis Garden, 7800 Miles Ave. www.palmspringscruisinassociation.com

Feb 12 - African American Art Festival - Culver City
Celebrates Black History Month. Afro-Brazilian capoeira, African drumming, art exhibit, live music. Star Eco Station, 10101 Jefferson Blvd. www.ecostation.org

Feb 17-20 - Whiskey Flat Days - Kernville
Whiskey Flats now known as Kernville celebrates its Old West heritage with a parade and festival. Downtown Kernville, www.kernvillechamber.org

Feb 18-20 - Civil War Days - Calico Ghost Town
Relive the battle between North and South in this authentic Civil War Re-enactment. The weekend includes drills, music, living history displays, and much more! 9AM-5PM.
Reenacters take over the the old Ghost town with several battles during the day and you can visit the encampments between the action. Because Calico is in the hills, you get a whole different type of background for the battles than others in the area.

Feb 17-26 - Riverside County Fair and National Date Festival - Indio
Usual Fair activities, Exhibits, livestock, carnival rides and date samples. RIverside County Fairgrounds. www.datefest.org 82-503 Hwy 111.

Feb 17-26 - Desert Classic Concours d'Elegance - Rancho Mirage
More than 150 domestic and foreign classic cars, sports and rqacing vehicles. Westin MIssion Hills Golf Resort, www.desertconcours.com

March 2012

March 1-May 13 - Flower Fields - Carlsbad
For many years the Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch have been a favorite location to photograph the ranunculuses each spring. The ranch offers tours as well as special events such as Kid's Day and an Arts & Craft fair. The hillside looks like a carpet of color with 50 acres of extraordinary color in bloom on a hillside overlooking the Pacific Ocean, with a special nursery, garden, and gift shop. Address is 5704 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, CA 92008 off Hwy. From Los Angeles and Orange County:
Head south on Interstate 5 to Palomar Airport Road exit. Head east (left turn) on Palomar Airport Road to Paseo Del Norte and turn left. Make an immediate right into the parking lot. Visit www.theflowerfields.com for more information. Hours 9-6.

March 3 People's Day at La Purisma Mission - Lompoc
It's 1822 at the mission as costumed docents and staff portray life of the mission during that era. Time: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Location: Highway 246 near Lompoc. www.lapurisimamission.org

March 10-11 - Vista Civil War Reanactment - Vista
Location: Antique Gas and Steam Museum, 2040 N Santa Fe Ave. Time: 10AM-5PM each day. Visitors can expect to see real live cannon fire, period costumes, historical figures, authentic battles, meet with the soldiers in their camps, attend demonstrations and more during the two-day festival. Battles will be held twice daily at 12:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. both days. Civil War living history tours will be held throughout the weekend and include demonstrations as well as displays. The museum will also have walking tours of their collections of antique equipment and offer visitors a selection of food and refreshment. http://www.goldcoastfestivals.com/VistaCivWar.html

March 10-11 Annual CSU Long Beach Pow Wow - Long beach
Admission is Free, Parking $4.00, event in the central quad.
dancing, Arts, Crafts and Food, starts at 11:00 each day with Gord dancing.
www.csulb.edu/powwow.

March 10 El Centro Air Show - El Centro Navel Air Facility
Many photography hobbyist and several professional photographers take advantage of the Naval Air Facility El Centro Air Show to get some spectacular photographs. Visitors to the Air Show are welcome and encouraged to take photographs of the event. Gates open at 8AM. See the website for more info and lots of pictures of past shows. http://www.elcentroairshow.com

March 11 Del Mar Kiwanis Ugly Dog Contest - Del Mar Fairgrounds.
Contest has branched out from just plain ugly dogs to 14 categories including Best Mutt and Dog Who Most Looks Like Its Owner. Paddock Green at Del Mar. www.uglydogcontest.com

March 17 Mission Life Day at La Purisma Mission - Lompoc
It's 1822 at the mission as costumed docents and staff portray life of the mission during that era. Time: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Location: Highway 246 near Lompoc. www.lapurisimamission.org

March 24 - Swallows Day Parade - San Juan Capistrano
Annual Parade and street fair and marketplace to celebrate the return of the swallows to San Juan Capistrano Mission on St. Joseph Day. Historic Town Center Park. www.swallowsparade.org.

March 25 - Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve Photographers Day - Lancaster
The Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve is having a "Photographers Day" on March 25, 2012. If you are a member of "The Photographic Society of America" (PSA) or Lancaster Photography Association, you will be admitted into the park for free. PSA members, please have your membership card available. If you are not a member and wish to join I will be available to take your membership application at the park on this day. There will be a fabulous auction with fine art items and various other items to help raise money for the Poppy Reserve and Saddleback Butte State Parks. Any donations would be greatly appreciated.

The Lancaster Photography Association (LPA) will be hosting a photography contest for images taken at the Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve, Saddleback Butte State Park and Ripley State Park. All parks are located in the Antelope Valley, CA. The images must be taken between March 25th, 2012 and closing date of May 1st, 2012. Entries should reflect the flora, fauna, and activities available at these scenic State Parks. Examples: Desert Animals, Wildflowers, Hiking, Camping, Star Gazing, Sunsets and Joshua Trees... etc. Entry is free and open to all photographers. Entries (limit 10) due by midnight May 1st, 2012. Please check the LPA website after March 25th for uploading instructions http://www.lpaphotography.org/
For more info, contact HelenHenryRD10@yahoo.com

March 24-25 Civil War Reenactment - Anaheim.
This event is held at St. Catherin's Military School, 215 N. Harbor Blvd. It's not as big as some but a lot of the students in military uniforms can make for great pictures. You are allowed to go in the camps between battles. Watch out for some of the buildings outside the campus that might get in your image. Parking is on the streets.

March 31 - Riverside Airport Air Show - Riverside
9AM-4PM at the Riverside Airport, 6951 Flight Road. Now in its 18th year, the Riverside Airshow continues to be one of Riverside’s two largest family entertainment events. Free Admission. This one-day show attracts 90,000 spectators from Riverside and the Inland Empire to see the most exciting aerial performers in the airshow business today. With more than 200 acres of aircraft displays, fun for the kids, food and refreshments, helicopter displays and community group exhibits your family will be thrilled to be part of this very unique entertainment opportunity. http://www.riversideca.gov/airshow.

April 2012

April 21-22 - Las Mariposas Civil War Days - Mariposa
Don't miss the most Authentic Civil War reenactment west of the Rockies! The location of our event is Longs' Mariposa Ranch, in historical Mariposa, CA, just outside of Yosemite National Park and on the location of the Las Mariposas Land Grant. There will be a battle reenactment on Friday complete with tactical foot and horse skirmishes and cannon fire Saturday and Sunday are both jammed full of events including two battles each day, AND a twilight battle on Saturday night. Throughout both days there will be a multitude of other events happening at the camps which the public are invited to attend and observe. Experience first hand a medical station, a blacksmith, a civilian town, cooking and sewing, and other aspects of life during this historical period. Don't miss hearing Abraham Lincoln recite the Gettysburg Address or Jefferson Davis as he dispels the rumors from the Federal Camp. Listen to Harriet Tubman, Sojourner Truth, and Clara Barton describe their lives and what it was like to be a slave. A variety of period sutlers and food vendors will be on site. For more information, please visit our website, www.thecivilwardays.com

SoCal Photo Opps January 2012

2011-12-23T19:27:00.000-08:00

Salton Sea can be great for birds as they migrate to warmer locations. Both Brown and White Pelicans come here. Check out the Sonny Bono National Wildlife Refuge for large flocks for birds in their ponds. Best time is now through January. The refuge winters up to 30,000 snow, Ross's, and Canada geese, and 60,000 ducks from November through February. Marsh birds and shorebirds account for more than 6,000,000 use-days each year. Endangered species observed on the refuge include the southern bald eagle, peregrine falcon, California brown pelican, Yuma clapper rail, and desert pupfish. http://www.fws.gov/refuges/profiles/index.cfm?id=81631
Borrowing Owls can also be found in the area: http://www.allaboutbirds.org/NetCommunity/page.aspx?pid=1771
More information: http://gocalifornia.about.com/od/capalmsprings/a/salton_sea.htm

Through Apr 22 - Surf Design 1967-1984 - Santa Monica
Exhibition of rare and antique surfboards. They will have a shaping room with numerous blanks that will be worked on aby several well known shapers during the exhibition. California Heritage Museum, 2612 Main St. www.californiaheritagemuseum.org

January 2012

Jan 1 - Cabrillo Beach Polar Swim - San Pedro
Swimmers celebrate 2012 with a plunge in the chilly waters of the pacific. 11:30AM
www.cabrillobeachpolarbears.com

Jan7-28 Saturdays - Hawk Watch -Romona
Learn about raptors at the Romona Grasslands. Wildlife experts educate visitors about the birds and habitat. Live raptor encounters, demonstrations start at 9AM. Wildlife Research Institute, Ramona. www.wildlife-research.org 18030 Highland Valley Road. Free

Jan 7-8 - Cable Airport Air Show - Upland
Aerobatics, parachute teams, car show, aircraft displays and food. Cable Airport is located at the North West corner of 13th and Benson in the very west end of San Bernardino County in the city of Upland. www.cableairport.com. Gates open at 8 AM, Free Parking, $7.00 admission.

Jan 7-12 - Surfing Contest - Huntington Beach
Katin Pro Am Team Challenge, surfing - through Jan. 12. Founded in 1977 by Nancy Katin (Kanvas by Katin) the event has hosted Shaun Tomson, Tom Curren, Sunny Garcia, and Kelly Slater and brands Hurley, Quiksilver, Lost, Fox, Reef, Jack's Surfboards and more. This surfing event features 17 teams of four surfers each, competing in open-draw format. It's a two-day event held during window of January 5-12. Cost: Paid parking: Huntington Beach Pier, 325 Pacific Coast Highway, Huntington Beach, CA. Free to see. www.katinusa.com.

Jan 8 - Oshogatsu Family Festival - Los Angeles
Japanese New Years celebration includes pounding of the sweet rice, traditional foods. Japanese American National Museum, 369 E 1st St. www.janm.org

Jan 13-16 - Morro Bay Winter Bird Festival - Morro Bay
Photograph and learn about the area's native and transitory bird species. Experts lead more than 110 field trips during the festival including boat trips and kayak trips. www.morrobaybirdfestival.org. (866) 464-5105

Jan 14-15 - Asian American Expo - Pomona
At the Fairplex. Lunar New Year celebration with more than 800 echibitors, live music, folk art and Asian food. www.asianamericanexpo.com. Hours 10AM-7PM in Halls 4,5,6,7 & 8. Admission $9.00, Seniors 7.00, $1.00 off coupon on website. They will have a photo contest.

Jan 14-15 - Pacific Camellia Society Show/Sale - La Canada/Flintridge
Annual flower show and self-guided walks through Descanso Gardens' 20 acre Camellia Forest. www.socalcamellias.org 1418 Descanso Dr.

Jan 20-21 - Lunar New Year Tet Festival - San Diego
Vietnamese New Year Festival with a cultural village, entertainment, food, dragon dance. Balboa Park, www.sdtet.com 11:00 AM Sat and Sun.

Jan 27-28 - Lunar Fest - Riverside
Celebrate the year of the Dragon. Parade, live performances, Asian Market, kid's village and cultural displays. Enjoy tea pavillons, food and sake. Downtown Riverside. www.lunarfestriverside.com

Jan 27-29 - Tet Festival - Garden Grove
The Tết Festival of Southern California is recognized as the world’s largest Tết Festival outside of Vietnam. Helping preserve culture, the festival boasts 100,000+ visitors and dozens of booths in a span of a three day weekend event. Visitors are emersed with a vibrant array of traditional foods, live entertainment, festive games, and customs celebrating the new year. Tết is the most observed holiday within Vietnamese culture. It celebrates the Lunar New Year, the beginning of Spring, and a way to start fresh. www.tetfestival.org

Jan 27-29 - Grand National Roadster Show - Pomona
Indoor car show with more than 500 vechicles, music and famous cars from TV and films. Fairplex Pomona. www.rodshows.com

Jan 28-29 - Yuma Quartermaster Depot Civil War Reeanactment - Yuma
There were no Civil War battles waged around Yuma – but the Quartermaster Depot was an active Union Army post during those years and a strategic point of defense because of the importance of the river crossing and trails to California. Re-enactment groups from around the West will converge for an old-school encampment and mock battles on the grassy grounds of the park. More info, www.yumaheritage.com, 928-373-5198. Open 8AM, Admission $10.00

February 2012

Feb 4-5 - Civil War Battles - Ft. Tejon
Experience the day to day life on a mid 1860’s California U. S. Army post. Both military and civilian impressions welcomed. Period correct attire only. Saturday and Sunday will provide period activities that will allow military participants to experience barracks life and training of the typical soldier. Enlisted military personnel will sleep in Fort Tejon’s original barracks, Friday and Saturday nights, officers and female civilians will be housed in the officers quarters. http://www.forttejon.org/2ndcal2011.html

Feb 10-11 - Tour de Palm Springs - Palm Springs
Various cyclists rides, bike expo, live entertainment and food court. Downtown.
www.tourdepalmsprings.com

Feb. 11 - Dr. Goerge Memorial Car Show - Indian Wells
More than 1000 custom and classic cars, trucks and motorcycles. Indian Wells Tennis Garden, 7800 Miles Ave. www.palmspringscruisinassociation.com

Feb 12 - African American Art Festival - Culver City
Celebrates Black History Month. Afro-Brazilian capoeira, African drumming, art exhibit, live music. Star Eco Station, 10101 Jefferson Blvd. www.ecostation.org

Feb 17-20 - Whiskey Flat Days - Kernville
Whiskey Flats now known as Kernville celebrates its Old West heritage with a parade and festival. Downtown Kernville, www.kernvillechamber.org

Feb 18-20 - Civil War Days - Calico Ghost Town
Relive the battle between North and South in this authentic Civil War Re-enactment. The weekend includes drills, music, living history displays, and much more! 9AM-5PM.
Reenacters take over the the old Ghost town with several battles during the day and you can visit the encampments between the action. Because Calico is in the hills, you get a whole different type of background for the battles than others in the area.

Feb 17-26 - Riverside County Fair and National Date Festival - Indio
Usual Fair activities, Exhibits, livestock, carnival rides and date samples. RIverside County Fairgrounds. www.datefest.org 82-503 Hwy 111.

Feb 17-26 - Desert Classic Concours d'Elegance - Rancho Mirage
More than 150 domestic and foreign classic cars, sports and rqacing vehicles. Westin MIssion Hills Golf Resort, www.desertconcours.com

March 2012

April 2012

April 21-22 - Las Mariposas Civil War Days - Mariposa
Don't miss the most Authentic Civil War reenactment west of the Rockies! The location of our event is Longs' Mariposa Ranch, in historical Mariposa, CA, just outside of Yosemite National Park and on the location of the Las Mariposas Land Grant. There will be a battle reenactment on Friday complete with tactical foot and horse skirmishes and cannon fire Saturday and Sunday are both jammed full of events including two battles each day, AND a twilight battle on Saturday night. Throughout both days there will be a multitude of other events happening at the camps which the public are invited to attend and observe. Experience first hand a medical station, a blacksmith, a civilian town, cooking and sewing, and other aspects of life during this historical period. Don't miss hearing Abraham Lincoln recite the Gettysburg Address or Jefferson Davis as he dispels the rumors from the Federal Camp. Listen to Harriet Tubman, Sojourner Truth, and Clara Barton describe their lives and what it was like to be a slave. A variety of period sutlers and food vendors will be on site. For more information, please visit our website, www.thecivilwardays.com

SO CAL PHOTO OPPS December 2011

2011-12-04T08:15:00.000-08:00

SoCalPhotoOpps November 2011

2011-11-12T10:51:00.000-08:00

November 2011

Nov 12 - Veterans Day Celebration - Riverside
Parade, bands concerts, war birds and military vechicles, airplane rides, vintage cars and hot rods. Flabob Airport 4130 Mennes Ave., Riverside.

Nov 17-Jan 16 - Downtown on Ice - Los Angeles
Outdoor skating rink among LA's skyscrapers. Free events include concerts, Holiday Festival, skating exhibitions. Pershing Square.

Nov 24-Jan 1 - Holiday of Lights - Del Mar
You can drive through a 1.5 mile route around Del Mar racetrack to see more than 400 lighted and animated holiday scenes. Del Mar fairgraounds. www.holidayoflights.com.

Nov 25-Jan 8 - Festival of Lights - Riverside
Millions of lights and animated characters on display. Ice Skating rink and vendors. Mission Inn, 3649 Mission Inn Ave Riverside, California 92501
(951) 784-0300

Nov 26-Dec 11 - Christmas Tree Holiday Train - Fillmore
Families can ride with Santa to a Christmas aTree farm to select and cut their tree. Weekends only. Fillmore & Western Railway.

December 2011

Dec 10 - Holiday Boat Parade - Marina del Rey
Evening boat parade and fireworks. Main Channel

Dec 11 - Irish Holiday Festival - Santa Ana
Family event with music, dance, storytelling and vendors. Bowers Museum, 2002 North Main Street Santa Ana, CA 92706

Dec 17 - Naples Islands Holiday Boat Parade - Long BeachGondolas and festively decorated small and lare boats cruise the canals of Napels Island and Alamitos Bay.

SoCalPhotoOpps October 2011

2011-10-01T15:13:00.000-07:00

October 2011

Through November 6 - Spider Pavilion - Los Angeles
Hundreds of free-roaming arachnids spin beautiful webs in an enclosed habitat. Gallery interpreters on hand to answer questions. Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, Exposition Park. www.nhm.org

Oct 1-2 San Dimas Rodeo - San Dimas
Will be held Saturday October 1st and Sunday October 2nd, 2011. The gates will open at 11:00. AM Events Begin At 1:00 PM at the Tex Shoemaker Rodeo Arena at Horsethief Canyon Park. http://sandimasrodeo.com

Oct 2 - Cabrillo Festival - San Diego
Annual Event commemorates JUan Rodriquez Cabrillo's contribution to the exploration of California. Reenactment of Cabrillo's landing on the shores of San Diego Bay, music, folk dancing, crafts and food. Ballast Point, Naval Base Point Loma. www.cabrillofestival.org.

Oct 1 - Nov 6 - Horse Racing - Santa Anita
Horse raceing fall season at Santa Anita, Closing Day Nov. 6th. Great place to spend a morning photographing. Get there early at Clockers Corner to see all the horses going out to the track to warm up. You can get some really close images. They generally have tours of the barns and other areas of the race track which is free. First race is 1:00 PM.

Oct 7 - Photo Day at the Race Track - Santa Anita
Whether you are a beginner or a professional, historic Santa Anita Park is hosting a one of a kind photography day. Be at Santa Anita Park by 7:30am to register and then shoot at Clocker’s Corner. With the backdrop of the San Gabriel Mountains and hundreds of horses working out, it’s the perfect setting. When workouts conclude, breakfast will be served followed by a Q & A with track photographers, trainers and management. Each person will have one of a kind access to the paddock and Winner’s Circle. Photos from the day will be posted on the SantaAnita.com web site. Cost $20.00 and includes general admission, general parking, breakfast and press credentials for the day. You must register ahead for this event. Buy Tickets: http://santaanitaevents.wagticketing.com/photography.html

Oct 9 - Japan America Kite Festival - Seal Beach
Hundreds of kites of all colors and sizes, sport kites, show kites and other demos. Kite Making Workshop. North side of Seal Beach Pier. www.jas-socal.org 11AM-4PM

Oct 15-16 - Pumpkin Festival - Pomona
Pumpkin Patch, insect fair, Cal-Poly grown produce and plants, petting zoo, horse rides, entertainment and food. Cal Poly Pomona Campus. www.csupomona.edu/-agri.

Oct 21-22-23 - Tournament of the Phoenix - Poway
On October 21, 22 & 23, 2011 the Poway Rodeo Grounds will be transformed into a scene from 'A Knight's Tale' as six armoured knights from across the globe meet for an international competition. The Tournament of the Phoenix is a weekend long Jousting and Combat event sanctioned by England's Royal Armouries Museum-Leeds.
Competitors will accumulate points as they battle it out in a series of grueling events. The tournament will test the combatants' prowess and stamina as they pit themselves against each other in foot combat with axes, mounted melee, and four sessions of jousting.
The event also showcases the "Festival of History", where over one hundred members of the southwest's premier Living History associations will present a living time line of history spanning Rome through the European Renaissance. A medieval bagpipe band lends to the festive atmosphere as they perform throughout the day. 'Hands on History' activities for all ages, vendors offering a range of goods and delicious food assure a day full of fun for event goers. Poway Rodeo Grounds, 14336 Tierra Bonita Road. www.worldjoust.com

Oct 22-23 - Gunfight Behind The Jersey Lilly - Corona/Norco
Put on by The Cowboys, www.thecowboys.org. They are the oldest and largest Cowboy Action Shooting Club in the world. They meet monthly for matches, wear authenic western gear. This event is free and has a lot to offer for the photographer. Last year we went and got a lot of cowboy pics, Indian dancers and we were able to take pictures of the shooting competition. Bring some safety glasses if you want to take pictures of the shooters. Mike Raahauge Shooting Enterprises
14995 River Rd., Corona, CA 92880

Oct 23 - Wings, Wheels and Rotors Expo - Los Alamitos
Car show, military and civilian aircraft displays, flyovers, helicopter flights, demonstrations, food and music. Los Alimitos Army Airfield, Joint Forces Training Base. 9AM -4PM. 11200 Lexington Drive, Katella at Lexington Dr. At Lexington off Katella. www.wwrexpo.net

Oct 29 - Long Beach Zombie Walk - Long Beach
Thousands of undead will shuffle along the streets of Long Beach trying to smash the current worlds record of zombies on the move at one time. Current record is in Seattle with 4800 zombies. All day event, bands, art, food,vendors, zombie makeup stations. Begins at 8PM on third St at Pine Ave. www.zombiewalklb.com

Oct 29-30 - Santa Barbara Concours d'Elegance - Santa BarbaraSalute to the Mille Miglia tour, car corrals, wine tasting, Italian and American Classic Car Show. Santa Barbara Polo and Racquet Club. www.elegantcars.com 10AM - 4 PM.

Oct 29-30 - Comic Con - Long Beach
Comic Book Convention and pop culture exhibition. Artist, panels, meet and greet, celebrities, autograph signings, vendors, costumed fans (cos-players). Long Beach Convention Center. www.longbeachcomiccon.com.

Oct 30 - Trick or Treat Festival - Costa Mesa
More than 50 classic, vintage and restored hearses will drive Costa Mesa's streets in a 4 mile cortege that ends at a Halloween festival. Festival includes costume contest, concert and sideshows. Orange County Market Place. www.ocmarketplace.com

So Cal Photo Opps September 2011

2011-08-29T19:14:00.000-07:00

September 2011

Through Sept 7 - Horse Racing - Del Mar
Del Mar racing season is through Sept 7th closing day. Gates open at Noon and first race is usually 2 PM. Closed Mondays and Thursdays. 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd. I've never photographed at this racetrack so I can't give you any tips. http://www.dmtc.com/season/

Sept 3, 4, 5 - Festival of Sail - San Diego
The Festival of Sail is an annual event with something for everyone. The event is held over Labor Day weekend each year and starts with a bang! Cannon fire will salute the entrance of the tall ships from all over the world as they parade around San Diego Bay passing by Harbor Island, Shelter Island, Seaport Village and the Coronado Bridge ending up at the Maritime Museum's docks.

The four day event includes live entertainment from a variety of genres including; Contemporary Rock, Sea Chanteys, Mariachi's, Steel Drum Bands, local community groups, etc. We will have a petting zoo where kids can get up close and pet a variety of animals. Cruises on San Diego Bay, cannon battles, sailing on racing yachts, over 150 arts and craft vendors, multitude of food options, interaction with pirates, and more...Cannon Battle Sails: Sail a Tall Ship into battle! Fight the Enemy from a Tall Ship available on Friday, Saturday, Sunday & Monday.

Historic Bay Cruises on the 1914 Pilot Boat: Enjoy a 30 minute guided tour of San Diego Bay on our historic Pilot Boat. Tickets are $5.00 per person (in addition to the passport purchase). America's Cup Boat Sails: Cruise the bay on America's Cup boats! Stars & Stripes and Abracadabra will be heading out for a sail to view the tall ship's cannon battles and Festival of Sail from an on-the-water perspective.

Sept. 3 - October 2 Los Angeles County Fair - Pomona
Runs through Oct. 2. Includes carnival, entertainment, fairway, exhibitions, livestock, and horse racing. They have a large photography exhibit. http://www.lacountyfair.com/2011/

Sept. 3-4 Civil War Re-Enactment - Huntington Beach
Where: Huntington Central Park 18000 Goldenwest St. Visit and tour large scale Confederate and Union encampments as more than 200 re-enactors stage famous battles of the Civil War. The two-day event includes live canon and weapon demonstrations, actors in full costume, food vendors and a Civil War-era band. On Saturday the first battle will be at 1:30 p.m. and the second at 4 p.m. Sunday features a church service at 9 a.m. then a battle at 11 a.m. and another one at 2 p.m.

Sept 8-11 - Festival of Roses - Wasco
Rose show, rose field tours, parade, potted roses for purchase, entertainment. Various locations and dates. www.ci.wasco.us.

Sept 11 - Surf Dog Surf-a-Thon - Del Mar
Humans and dogs catch the waves to raise money for the Helen Woodward Animal Center. Canine custume contests. North Beach http://surfdog.kintera.org.

Sept 10-11 - Creston Classic Rodeo - Creston-San Luis Obispo
County Roping, steer riding, horseback riding, barn dancing, and cowboy church. Sat events start at 1PM, Sun Mutton Bustin at 11AM, events start at 1PM. http://www.crestonclassicrodeo.org 6180 Webster Rd., Creston.

Sept 10-11 - Tall Ships Festival - Dana Point
This year, the Ocean Institute is celebrating its 27th year hosting the Toshiba Tall Ships Festival! Come and explore the majesty and wonder of tall ships through the smells, sounds and sights of real working tall ships. Interactive living-history encampments including blacksmiths, scrimshaw artists, and the infamous Port Royal Privateers are sure to entertain and amaze guests of all ages and are not to be missed. www.tallshipsfestival.com.

Sept 11 - Belmont Shore Car Show - Long Beach
Pre 1975 hot rods and custom cars, food. The show is held on 2nd Street in Belmont Shore which is part of Long Beach. A large number of blocks of 2nd Street are closed off for the day and the show takes place on the city street.The show draws about 700 vehicles and boasts a huge number of street vendors selling automotive related goods as well as many other things. Because the show draws a huge spectator crowd, it has a terrific amount of excitement and energy. This one is not to be missed whether you have a car or just come to look at cars. The level of quality of the cars at this show is second to none. If you want to see a huge number of the finest rods, muscle cars, and customs to be found in Southern California, you don't want to miss this show. www.baycityrodders.com.

Sept 11 - Coastline Car Classic - Corona del Mar
More than 200 vintage and dealer select automobiles, food and vendors. Big Corona del Mar State Beach. www.coastlinecarclassic.com

Sept 10-11 - Stagecoach Days - Banning
Parade, carnival, ranch rodeo, hisgtorical encampments, Wild west gunfighter competition, blacksmithing contest, food and entertainment. A C Dysart Park, exit I-10 at 22nd St, turn South to end of road and follow the signs. www.banningstagecoachdays.com $4.00

Sept 16-18 - Annual Danish Days - Solvang
75th annual festival in "Little Denmark" Solvang includes Danish food, folk dancers, parades and Old Wolrd artisan marketplace. There will be Viking encampments and cultural demonstrations. www.solvangusa.com

Sept 16-18 Fiesta Days - Morongo Valley
Western reenactments, chili cook-off, hayrides, live music, etc. Covington Park.
www.mvfiestadays.com

Sept 17-18 - Navy Fleet Week Family Festival - San Diego
At the Broadway Pier featuring ship tours, military static displays, in-water demonstrations, live entertainment, and a children’s fun zone. Tentatively-scheduled ships available for tour are the USS Princeton (CG-59) a guided missile cruiser, and the USS Rushmore (LSD-47), a dock landing ship. For more information on the Family Festival or any of the events, visit www.fleetweeksandiego.org. No Tripods or lens longer than 100mm allowed. Hours 10AM-4PM.

Sept 15-18 - Route 66 Rendezvous - San Bernardino
Crusing car show of pre-1975 classics, customs and hot rod contest, poker run, 5K run on Sunday and Firefighter competition, vendors and lots of entertainment. Downtown. From I-10 head North, exit 2nd Street and tuen right at the light. www.route-66.org

Sept 17 - Old West Days - Randsburg
Each September the Rand Desert Museum hosts the RAND DISTRICT OLD WEST DAYS, which is a street fair held on the main street of Randsburg, It features Western and Bluegrass bands playing live, vendors of all sorts of items and other forms of entertainment including reenactments by the Old West Mounted Lawman. http://www.randdesertmuseum.com/

Sept 17-18 - Port of LA Lobster Festival - San Pedro
Lobster meals, dancing, parades, street performers, pirate camp, tall ships and live music. Ports O'Call, 6th and Harbor, Opens 11 AM each day. www.lobsterfest.com.

Sept 17 - Wavecrest Woodie Meet (car show) - Encinitas
More than 300 woodie Cars, live music and entertainment. This is the largest of the Woodie Shows. Events at several locations including Moonlight Beach. www.sandiegowoodies.com.

Sept 18 - English Motors Car Show - Fallbrook
More than 300 British cars are shown on a 25 acre horse ranch. Benefit for Meals-on-Wheels. Fairbrook Farms, 4949 South Mission Road.
http://www.englishmotorsatfairbrook.org/

Sept 17-18 - Civil War Reenactment - Ft Tejon - Lebec
Union and Confederate army encampments and battles at this historic Fort and State Park. Sunday battles are at 10:30 AM and 1:00 PM (Approximately 30-45 minutes each.) Guided tours of the camps are offered between the battles. Arrive at least 30 minutes early to secure a good spot in the spectator area. Bring a blanket or chair if you do not wish to stand. www.forttejon.org.

Sept 18 - Palos Verdes Concours d'Elegance - Palos Verdes
Join us for the 19th Annual Palos Verdes Concours d’Elegance September 18, 2011. This year’s theme is German Fest with Mercedes-Benz as the marque. The ever-popular Tour d’Epicure Road Rallye starts the weekend off on Saturday afternoon, followed by the Grand Marshal’s Reception. Sunday’s Concours d’Elegance returns again to the spectacular Trump National Golf Club on the cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean. www.pvconcours.com.

Sept 24 Cruise Aboard the Lane Victory, WWII Ship - San Pedro
The Lane Victory is a WWII Merchant Marine Ship built in 1945 and docked at San Pedro. Normally a museum, it sails out to Catalina Island and back several times a year. I did this cruise 2 years and had a blast. Lunch is served along with drinks. WWII entertainment and reeanactors on board, German spy is captured and the ship will be attacked by WWII German aircraft on the way back and saved by the US planes. Lots to photograph and a fun day. Located at Pier 94 in San Pedro. LA Fire Boats greet the ship on the way into port--blowing water. http://www.lanevictory.com

Sept 24 - Route 66 Parade and Car Show - Duarte
The Duarte Route 66 Parade & Classic Car Show features a variety of beautifully restored vintage cars, marching bands, equestrian units, costume characters and much more! It’s a parade filled with excitement and fun for all ages.Duarte, things to do in duarte, City of Duarte, Duarte parade. Even when the parade ends, Duarte’s Salute to Route 66 continues with an old-fashioned American hometown picnic and vintage car show at nearby Royal Oaks Park. 10AM. http://duarteroute66parade.com

Sept 25 - Aquarium Of The Pacific Photo Day - Long Beach
Now is your chance to take the photos you have always wanted. Back by popular demand, on this night, the Aquarium will be available to photographers for the sole purpose of getting their dream photos without having to worry about the general public either getting in their shots or being bothered by their equipment.
Take your time, set up your shots, and enjoy. In order to create the best environment for our photographers, we will be limiting ticket sales. We highly encourage you to purchase your tickets ahead of time to guarantee a spot or you may be turned away at the door. Time 5:30-10PM. Workshop must be taken before shooting. They will have photo contest. Cost $24.95 100 Aquarium Way.
http://www.aquariumofpacific.org/newsevents/eventsdetail/photographers_night

Sept 24-25 - Goldcoast Pirate Faire - Lake Casitas, Ojai
Pirate encampments, performers, reeactments, treasure hunts, food and grog. Lake Casitas recreation Area. www.goldcoastfestivals.com.

Sept 24-31 - Pumpkin Festival - Temecula
Commercial Pumpkin Patch. Pig races, corn maze, pony rides, train rides, petting farm, John Deere Tractor collection, and the star--the pumpkin. Peltzer Farm, 39925 Calle Contento. Open 9-8 www.peltzerfarms.com.

Sept 23-24 - Poway Rodeo - Poway
PRCA events, Bareback Riding, Tie Down roping, Bronc Riding, Bull Riding and more. Sat gates open at 11:30, rodeo at 1PM, Sunday gates open at 6 PM, rodeo starts at 7:30 PM. Poway Valley Riders Association Grounds, 14336 Tierra Bonita Rd.
http://www.powayrodeo.com.

Sept 24-25 - Viking Festival - Vista
Helmeted reenactors show off their fighting skills on the battlefield at this celebration of Norse and Scandinavian culture. Ax Throw, log toss, sword demonstrations, fish fling, food and live music. Norway Hall, 2006 East Vista Way Vista, CA. Sat 11-8 and Sun 11-6. www.vikingfestivalvista.com.

Sept 30-Oct 2 - MCAS Miramar Air Show - San Diego
Blue Angels perform, parachute teams, wingwalkers and other military and civilian flights. Marine Corps Air Station Miramar. www.miramarairshow.com

October 2011

Oct 1-2 San Dimas Rodeo - San Dimas
Will be held Saturday October 1st and Sunday October 2nd, 2011. The gates will open at 11:00. AM Events Begin At 1:00 PM at the Tex Shoemaker Rodeo Arena at Horsethief Canyon Park. http://sandimasrodeo.com

Oct 1 - Nov 6 - Horse Racing - Santa Anita
Horse raceing fall season at Santa Anita, Closing Day Nov. 6th. Great place to spend a morning photographing. Get there early at Clockers Corner to see all the horses going out to the track to warm up. You can get some really close images. They generally have tours of the barns and other areas of the race track which is free. First race is 1:00 PM.

Oct 7 - Photo Day at the Race Track - Santa Anita
Whether you are a beginner or a professional, historic Santa Anita Park is hosting a one of a kind photography day. Be at Santa Anita Park by 7:30am to register and then shoot at Clocker’s Corner. With the backdrop of the San Gabriel Mountains and hundreds of horses working out, it’s the perfect setting. When workouts conclude, breakfast will be served followed by a Q & A with track photographers, trainers and management. Each person will have one of a kind access to the paddock and Winner’s Circle. Photos from the day will be posted on the SantaAnita.com web site. Cost $20.00 and includes general admission, general parking, breakfast and press credentials for the day. You must register ahead for this event. Buy Tickets: http://santaanitaevents.wagticketing.com/photography.html

Oct 22-23 - Gunfight Behind The Jersey Lilly - Corona/Norco
Put on by The Cowboys, www.thecowboys.org. They are the oldest and largest Cowboy Action Shooting Club in the world. They meet monthly for matches, wear authenic western gear. This event is free and has a lot to offer for the photographer. Last year we went and got a lot of cowboy pics, Indian dancers and we were able to take pictures of the shooting competition. Bring some safety glasses if you want to take pictures of the shooters. Mike Raahauge Shooting Enterprises
14995 River Rd., Corona, CA 92880

SoCal Photo Opps August 2011

2011-07-27T08:26:00.000-07:00

August 2011

Aug 1-Aug 7 - Hurley US Open of Surfing - Huntington Beach
8am-5pm Worlds top surfers compete, a 14-acre Festival Village that allows attendees to sample products and services from the action sports industry, a BMX and skateboard competition and more. Admission to all events is free, so don’t miss out on this exciting, action-packed beach festival! You can get great images from the pier with your 400mm lens. The professionals will surf on the South side of the pier and you can get some great image of the non-professional locals on the North side. Lots of opportunity to people watch. http://www.usopenofsurfing.com/ On the weekend, get there early to get a parking spot. Events start at 8:00AM.

Through Sept 7 - Horse Racing - Del Mar
Del Mar racing season is through Sept 7th closing day. Gates open at Noon and first race is usually 2 PM. Closed Mondays and Thursdays. 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd. I've never photographed at this racetrack so I can't give you any tips. http://www.dmtc.com/season/

Aug 6 - Dragoon Era - Ft Tejon
Come and take a step back in time and see California as it was in 1856. At Fort Tejon State Historical Park vistors can witness life at this U.S. Army post of the far west. Fort Tejon was a crossroads for many converging and competing cultures of the 1850s. Vistors are invited to view the living history demonstrations of everyday life of the common soldier and civilian men, women and children at this mountain outpost. 10AM-3PM http://www.forttejon.org/progdr.html

Aug 7 - Lowrider Nationals - Bakersfield
Urban car culture and lifestyle show with more than 500 custom-designed cars. Hop contest, car audio sound off and live music. Kern County Fairgrounds. www.lowridernationals.com

Aug 12-14 - Oceanside Longboard Surfing Board Contest and Festival - Oceanside Longboard surfing contest, vendors and live music. Pier Amphitheater and South Pier Beach. www.oceansidelongboardsurfingclub.org

Aug 13-14 - Great Sand Sculpture Contest - Long Beach
Sand castle contest, music, food, arts & crafts. Granada Avenue Beach. www.alfredosbeachclub.com

Aug 18-21 - Big Bear Cowboy Gathering - Big Bear Lake
Wild West weekend of cowboy music, poetry, reenactors, storytellers, merechants and barbecue. Big Bear Lake Performing Arts Center (909)866-4970. www.bigbearcowboygathering.net

Aug 19-28 - Antelope Valley Fair - Lancaster
Usual fair activity but they have a very nice judged photographic print display that is worth seeing. Antelope Vally Fairgrounds.

Aug 21 - Mission Life Day at La Purisma Mission - Lompoc
It's 1822 at the mission as costumed docents and staff portray life of the mission during that era. Time: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Location: Highway 246 near Lompoc. lapurisimamission.org

Aug 20-21 - World Bodysurfing Championships - Oceanside
Bodysurfers from around the world compete in different divisions for trophies and prizes. Oceanside Pier. www.worldbodysurfing.org

Aug 20-21 - Wings Over Camarillo - Camarillo
A great airshow with many events and static displays. The morning of the event gives attendees the chance to see a variety of experimental aircraft in flight. Starting at 9:00 AM both Saturday and Sunday, you will enjoy a range of ultralight and homebuilt aircraft. An announcer will provide you details and exciting commentary on each aircraft. The Goodyear Blimp will fly over the area both mornings. This year we have more aircraft than ever taking to the skies during the air portions of the event, both Saturday and Sunday. Many of these planes are privately owned and maintained. Many are flown by the owner pilot. This is a rare chance to see these beautifully maintained aircraft flying. Airplane and helicopter rides, food, entertainment. 9AM-5PM Camarillo Airport, 555 Airport Way. $10 admission.
www.Wingsovercamarillo.com

Aug 20-21 - Woodies At The Beach - Santa Barbara
The President of the Santa Barbara Woodie Club, Bill Sampson, invites you to join us at the 11th Annual - Woodies at the Beach! It’s a great show located at one of the most beautiful venues on the California coast, with Woodies displayed on a large grassy knoll overlooking the blue Pacific Ocean. The views just don’t get any better than this! Special parking area on the lawn for all other cars of interest, no moderns please. phone 805-683-5141 Event at Santa Barbara City College, 721 Cliff Dr.

Aug 20 - Uptown Whittier Car Show - Whittier
The Whittier Uptown Association will present a Car Show Extravaganza. More Cars, More Vendors and More Fun! The 11th Annual Uptown Whittier Car Show will exhibit over 600 cars from muscle cars, hot rods, customs, antiques, and restored classics. Trophies will be awarded to each 1st place category. The Car Show will be held Saturday, August 20th, 2010, in Historic Uptown Whittier, along Greenleaf Ave. and Philadelphia St., beginning from 9:00am to 7:00pm. Bring the whole family for a full day of fun in the picturesque Uptown Whittier. www.whittieruptown.com

Aug 20-21 - Pt. Magu Surfing Contest at Pelican Point - Pt. Magu
NBVC will host the 2010 NBVC Point Mugu Surf Contest Presented by Quiksilver. This is an exciting opportunity for the surfing community to access one of the best waves Southern California has to offer, and for NBVC to showcase our award winning stewardship of the environmentally sensitive beach and wetlands area inside our gates. This is a community engagement event for NBVC. Proceeds from this event will benefit the MWR Single Sailor/Liberty program. They will have a photo contest.

Aug 20-21 - Tehachapi Mountain Festival and Rodeo - Tehachapi
Tehachapi Mountain Festival® has been providing quality family entertainment for the community for 48 years. Traditionally held on the third weekend in August, it is the largest family event within the community and includes fun for the entire family. The Festival includes an arts and crafts show, food, entertainment, carnival, 5K & 10K run, Mountain Festival Parade, car show, PRCA rodeo, pet parade, Gem & Mineral show, Quilt Show, VFW dinner and dance, pancake breakfast and much more. An estimated 30,000 to 50,000 attend, with the attendance growing each year. Get out of the heat and join us for some good family fun. Rodeo 7PM Friday, 5PM Sat. Car and Truck Show downtown 9am-3pm Sunday. Philip Marx Central Park, www.tehachapimountainfestival.com

Aug 20-21 - Fort Tejon Civil War Invitational - Lebec
Reeanactment battles, Union and Confederate Camps, tours of the fort's old barracks and officers house. Bring Lunch. They usually have two battles for day and you can go into the camps between battles. www.forttejon.com

Aug 26-28 - Norco Mounted Posse Rodeo - Norco
PRCA rodeo, cowboy dances, music. George Ingalls Equestrian Center in Norco at the end of 6th Street. www.norcoprcarodeo.com. Gates open at 5PM Rodeo at 7:30. I have never been to this rodeo. From a photographic point of view, it is an evening event and the rodeo grounds are covered, I'm not sure it would be the best for photography.

Aug 27-28 Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo - San Juan Capistrano
The rodeo will take place at the Oaks Blenheim Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park, located at the intersection of Ortega Highway and Antonio Parkway/La Pata on the western border of the Rancho Mission Viejo in South Orange County.
The Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo is good old entertainment for the entire family, not to mention the richest 2-day rodeo in the nation with a purse totaling over $200,000. The top 30 rodeo contestants in saddle bronc and bareback riding, tie-down roping, steer wrestling, bull riding and team roping will come to San Juan Capistrano for this chance of a lifetime. Gates open at 2PM Sat, rodeo starts at 4PM and gates open at 11:30 AM on Sunday, rodeo starts at 1:30 PM. While I have not photographed at this rodeo, I have heard it is a good one. http://www.rmvrodeo.com

Aug 27 and Sept 24 Cruise Aboard the Lane Victory, WWII Ship - San Pedro
The Lane Victory is a WWII Merchant Marine Ship built in 1945 and docked at San Pedro. Normally a museum, it sails out to Catalina Island and back several times a year. I did this cruise 2 years and had a blast. Lunch is served along with drinks. WWII entertainment and reeanactors on board, German spy is captured and the ship will be attacked by WWII German aircraft on the way back and saved by the US planes. Lots to photograph and a fun day. Located at Pier 94 in San Pedro. LA Fire Boats greet the ship on the way into port--blowing water. http://www.lanevictory.com

September 2011

Sept 17-18 - Navy Fleet Week Family Festival - San Diego
At the Broadway Pier featuring ship tours, military static displays, in-water demonstrations, live entertainment, and a children’s fun zone. Tentatively-scheduled ships available for tour are the USS Princeton (CG-59) a guided missile cruiser, and the USS Rushmore (LSD-47), a dock landing ship. For more information on the Family Festival or any of the events, visit www.fleetweeksandiego.org. No Tripods or lens longer than 100mm allowed. Hours 10AM-4PM.

October 2011

Oct 1-2 San Dimas Rodeo - San Dimas
Will be held Saturday October 1st and Sunday October 2nd, 2011. The gates will open at 11:00. AM Events Begin At 1:00 PM at the Tex Shoemaker Rodeo Arena at Horsethief Canyon Park. http://sandimasrodeo.com

Oct 1 - Nov 6 - Horse Racing - Santa Anita
Horse raceing fall season at Santa Anita, Closing Day Nov. 6th. Great place to spend a morning photographing. Get there early at Clockers Corner to see all the horses going out to the track to warm up. You can get some really close images. They generally have tours of the barns and other areas of the race track which is free. First race is 1:00 PM.

Oct 7 - Photo Day at the Race Track - Santa Anita
Whether you are a beginner or a professional, historic Santa Anita Park is hosting a one of a kind photography day. Be at Santa Anita Park by 7:30am to register and then shoot at Clocker’s Corner. With the backdrop of the San Gabriel Mountains and hundreds of horses working out, it’s the perfect setting. When workouts conclude, breakfast will be served followed by a Q & A with track photographers, trainers and management. Each person will have one of a kind access to the paddock and Winner’s Circle. Photos from the day will be posted on the SantaAnita.com web site. Cost $20.00 and includes general admission, general parking, breakfast and press credentials for the day. You must register ahead for this event. Buy Tickets: http://santaanitaevents.wagticketing.com/photography.html

Oct 22-23 - Gunfight Behind The Jersey Lilly - Corona/Norco
Put on by The Cowboys, www.thecowboys.org. They are the oldest and largest Cowboy Action Shooting Club in the world. They meet monthly for matches, wear authenic western gear. This event is free and has a lot to offer for the photographer. Last year we went and got a lot of cowboy pics, Indian dancers and we were able to take pictures of the shooting competition. Bring some safety glasses if you want to take pictures of the shooters. Mike Raahauge Shooting Enterprises
14995 River Rd., Corona, CA 92880

July 2011

2011-06-24T19:19:00.000-07:00

July 2011

July 2-3 - Mountaineer Days - Wrightwood
Live music, bed races; a parade, nail driving contest, cowboy quickdraw, watermelon and pie eating contests, good panning, and food. Wrightwood Village. www.wrightwoodchanber.org.

July 2-3 - Pirate Invasion of Belmont Pier - Long Beach
Pirate encampment, battles, food, crafts and music. Belmont Vetrans Memorial Pier. www.alfredosbeachclub.com

July 2-3 - Obon Festival - Pacoima
Japanese cultural festival with traditional dances, taiko drumming, tea ceremonies, food, arts and crafts. Japanese American Community Center, 12953 Branford Street
Pacoima, CA., 91311 www.sfvhbt.org

July 4 - Firecracker Train - Fillmore
Car show, festival, barbecue, chili cook-off, train ride through Heritage valley and fireworks display. Fillmore & Western Railway in downtown. www.fwry.com

July 9 - Kardboard Kayak Race - Santa Barbara
Novice and skilled boat builders test their skill and creativity as they try to build the most seaworthy kayaks from corrugated cardboard, tape and markers. West Beach, Santa Barbara. www.sbmm.org.

July 9-10 - Big Bear Lake Paddlefest - Fawnskin
Beginner through advanced clinics and races for kayaks and canoes, boat demos and an outdoor sports exhibit. Swim Beach at Meadow park. www.bigbearpaddlefest.com

July 9-10 - Lotus Festival - Los Angeles
Location: Echo Park. The mission of the Lotus Festival is to develop, promote and create an atmosphere of understanding in which Asian and Pacific Islander communities in Southern California are brought together for two (2) days of cultural sharing. Opening Ceremonies on Saturday, July 9, 2011 at 12:00 p.m., to earmark the celebration of the 33rd Lotus Festival, which includes live music, dance and entertainment from a variety of performers representing many of the diverse countries of Asia and the Pacific Islands. This year, the Festival will highlight the people and cultures of Thailand with the support of the Royal Thai Consulate General Los Angeles. Echo Park Lake in Los Angeles, California, is located on Park Avenue between Glendale Avenue and Echo Park Boulevard, just north of the Hollywood (101) and Pasadena (110) freeway junction, near Dodger Stadium. http://www.laparks.org/calendar/lotus/lotus.htm Dragon Boat races are one of the major events for photographers.

July 9-10 - Fort MacArthur Days - San Pedro
Location fort MacArthur Museum, Angel State Park, 3601 South Gaffey. Big Event with reeanactments from Civil War to WWII. Hours 10am-4pm. http://fortmacarthur.tripod.com/ or www.ftmac.org

July 15-Aug 14 - Orange County Fair - Costa Mesa
Live entertainment, livestock exhibits, arts & crafts, Photography Exhibit, rides and food. OC Fair and Event Center, www.ocfair.com

July 16-17 Ocean Festival - San Clemente
Full weekend of family events Car Show, Surf and Ocean Art Show, Children's activities. Annual Beach Party and Concert included. At the San Clemente Pier. California Waterman and Waterwomman contests. Surfing Contest and Great rubber Duck Race. http://www.oceanfestival.org

July 16-17 - Central Coast Renaissance Festival - San Luis Obispo
Music,entertainment,food,drinks and games. Also the usual jousting, street performers and craftsmen. El Chorro Regional Park. www.ccrenfaire.com

July 22-24 - US Open Sandcastle Competition - Imperial Beach
Street festival, live music and sand castle building competition for children, amateurs and professional teams. www.usopensandcastle.com

July 30-31 - Citrus Classic Balloon Festival - Santa Paula
Let your summer take flight. . . with hot air balloons flying over scenic citrus orchards and rolling hills towards views of the Pacific Ocean, the Fourth Annual Citrus Classic Balloon Festival is THE best backdrop for THE balloon event closest to Greater Los Angeles. Mingle with balloon pilots, enjoy outdoor dining, wine and beer garden, browse arts and craft vendors, get active with the Kids Activity Area, relax with live music. . . It's the perfect day trip, family summer weekend or romantic getaway - conveniently just 1.5 hours from Los Angeles! Opens Friday evening with entertainment and the glow of hot air ballons. Saturday arrive early for the sunrise ascension of more than two dozen balloons. Tethered balloon rides, music and vendors. Will also have a vintage car and Indian motorcycle rally. After sunset see the Glow of the Blue Moon. Blue lights illuminate balloons, glowing blue beach balls and a blues band. Located at the Soccer fields at 18249 E. Telegraph Road, Santa Paula. 5:00PM-11PM Friday, 5:30AM-11:00PM Saturday, 5:30AM-4:30PM Sunday. www.citrusclassicballoons.com

July 30-31 - Long Beach Civil War Reeanactment - Long Beach
Live cannon fire, period costumes, historical figures, battles and encampments.
Location: El Dorado park, 7550 E Spring St., Hours 10am-5pm. $10.00 adults/$8.00 Seniors. www.goldcoastfestivals.com

July 30-31 - Long Beach Dragon Boat Festival - Long Beach
Dragon Boat competitions, acrobats, food and art exhibits. Traditional dance, mucic. Marine Stadium. www.lbdragonboat.com

July 30 - Aug 7 - Hurley US Open of Surfing - Huntington Beach
8am-5pm Worlds top surfers compete, a 14-acre Festival Village that allows attendees to sample products and services from the action sports industry, a BMX and skateboard competition and more. Admission to all events is free, so don’t miss out on this exciting, action-packed beach festival!

August 2011

Aug 6 - Dragoon Era - Ft Tejon
Come and take a step back in time and see California as it was in 1856. At Fort Tejon State Historical Park vistors can witness life at this U.S. Army post of the far west. Fort Tejon was a crossroads for many converging and competing cultures of the 1850s. Vistors are invited to view the living history demonstrations of everyday life of the common soldier and civilian men, women and children at this mountain outpost. 10AM-3PM http://www.forttejon.org/progdr.html

Aug 7 - Lowrider Nationals - Bakersfield
Urban car culture and lifestyle show with more than 500 custom-designed cars. Hop contest, car audio sound off and live music. Kern County Fairgrounds. www.lowridernationals.com

Aug 13-14 - Great Sand Sculpture Contest - Long Beach
Sand castle contest, music, food, arts & crafts. Granada Avenue Beach. www.alfredosbeachclub.com

Aug 18-21 - Big Bear Cowboy Gathering - Big Bear Lake
Wild West weekend of cowboy music, poetry, reenactors, storytellers, merechants and barbecue. Big Bear Lake Performing Arts Center (909)866-4970. www.bigbearcowboygathering.net

Aug 19-28 - Antelope Valley Fair - Lancaster
Usual fair activity but they have a very nice judged photographic print display that is worth seeing. Antelope Vally Fairgrounds.

Aug 21 - Mission Life Day at La Purisma Mission - Lompoc
It's 1822 at the mission as costumed docents and staff portray life of the mission during that era. Time: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Location: Highway 246 near Lompoc. lapurisimamission.org

Aug 20-21 - Wings Over Camarillo - Camarillo
A great airshow with many events and static displays. The morning of the event gives attendees the chance to see a variety of experimental aircraft in flight. Starting at 9:00 AM both Saturday and Sunday, you will enjoy a range of ultralight and homebuilt aircraft. An announcer will provide you details and exciting commentary on each aircraft. The Goodyear Blimp will fly over the area both mornings. This year we have more aircraft than ever taking to the skies during the air portions of the event, both Saturday and Sunday. Many of these planes are privately owned and maintained. Many are flown by the owner pilot. This is a rare chance to see these beautifully maintained aircraft flying. Airplane and helicopter rides, food, entertainment. 9AM-5PM Camarillo Airport, 555 Airport Way. $10 admission.
www.Wingsovercamarillo.com

Aug 20-21 - Woodies At The Beach - Santa Barbara
The President of the Santa Barbara Woodie Club, Bill Sampson, invites you to join us at the 11th Annual - Woodies at the Beach! It’s a great show located at one of the most beautiful venues on the California coast, with Woodies displayed on a large grassy knoll overlooking the blue Pacific Ocean. The views just don’t get any better than this! Special parking area on the lawn for all other cars of interest, no moderns please. phone 805-683-5141 Event at Santa Barbara City College, 721 Cliff Dr.

Aug 20 - Uptown Whittier Car Show - Whittier
The Whittier Uptown Association will present a Car Show Extravaganza. More Cars, More Vendors and More Fun! The 11th Annual Uptown Whittier Car Show will exhibit over 600 cars from muscle cars, hot rods, customs, antiques, and restored classics. Trophies will be awarded to each 1st place category. The Car Show will be held Saturday, August 20th, 2010, in Historic Uptown Whittier, along Greenleaf Ave. and Philadelphia St., beginning from 9:00am to 7:00pm. Bring the whole family for a full day of fun in the picturesque Uptown Whittier. www.whittieruptown.com

Aug 20-21 - Pt. Magu Surfing Contest at Pelican Point - Pt. Magu
NBVC will host the 2010 NBVC Point Mugu Surf Contest Presented by Quiksilver. This is an exciting opportunity for the surfing community to access one of the best waves Southern California has to offer, and for NBVC to showcase our award winning stewardship of the environmentally sensitive beach and wetlands area inside our gates. This is a community engagement event for NBVC. Proceeds from this event will benefit the MWR Single Sailor/Liberty program. They will have a photo contest.

Aug 20-21 - Fort Tejon Civil War Invitational - Lebec
Reeanactment battles, Union and Confederate Camps, tours of the fort's old barracks and officers house. Bring Lunch. They usually have two battles for day and you can go into the camps between battles. www.forttejon.com

Aug 28-29 Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo - San Juan Capistrano
The rodeo will take place at the Oaks Blenheim Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park, located at the intersection of Ortega Highway and Antonio Parkway/La Pata on the western border of the Rancho Mission Viejo in South Orange County.
The Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo is good old entertainment for the entire family, not to mention the richest 2-day rodeo in the nation with a purse totaling over $200,000. The top 30 rodeo contestants in saddle bronc and bareback riding, tie-down roping, steer wrestling, bull riding and team roping will come to San Juan Capistrano for this chance of a lifetime. Gates open at 2PM Sat, rodeo starts at 4PM and gates open at 11:30 AM on Sunday, rodeo starts at 1:30 PM. While I have not photographed at this rodeo, I have heard it is a good one. http://www.rmvrodeo.com

Aug 27 and Sept 24 Cruise Aboard the Lane Victory, WWII Ship - San Pedro
The Lane Victory is a WWII Merchant Marine Ship built in 1945 and docked at San Pedro. Normally a museum, it sails out to Catalina Island and back several times a year. I did this cruise 2 years and had a blast. Lunch is served along with drinks. WWII entertainment and reeanactors on board, German spy is captured and the ship will be attacked by WWII German aircraft on the way back and saved by the US planes. Lots to photograph and a fun day. Located at Pier 94 in San Pedro. LA Fire Boats greet the ship on the way into port--blowing water. http://www.lanevictory.org

So Cal Photo Opps June 2011

2011-05-27T12:33:00.000-07:00

Through Sept. 5 - Pavilion of Wings - Los Angeles
More than 40 different butterfly and moth species and an array of plants take up residence every summer for our much-anticipated seasonal exhibit, the Pavilion of Wings. Wander through a unique changing and growing ecosystem. Witness wondrous free-flying creatures interacting with plant life and with each other and emerge with a better understanding of the environment needed for the survival of these spectacular animals. Los Angeles Natural History Museum, 900 Exposition Blvd. www.nhm.org

JUNE 2011

Through June 19 Weekends. Koroneburg Old World Festival - Corona
Located at Riverview Park, off River Road. They have permanent buildings that make great backdrops, lots of shade, flat walking area. This is a smaller event than the one in Irwindale. I think this makes for great images. Lots of entertainment. Meet hundreds of family members living, working & playing in Southern California’s only permanent Renaissance Village! Visitors to this 1450-1600 European Village are entertained, discover fine arts and crafts, and enjoy delectable food and beverages. The setting is the fictitious estate of the Baron Heinrich Von Lauffer, located along the Rhine river (aka Santa Ana River) between Mainz and Strasbourg. Each year the Baron invites the finest minds and most talented actors to celebrate the coming of spring at his Barony of Koroneburg. The festival celebrates the inventions and changes of the renaissance period. Time: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturdays & 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sundays. Location: Crossroads Riverview Park 14600 River Rd, Corona, CA 92880. Cost: $18 Adult; $15 Child 5-11 or Senior 62+; $12 Military with valid ID; Children under 5 Free.
www.renaissanceinfo.com/riverview

June 2-5 Santa Maria Elks Rodeo. - Santa Maria
68th Annual rodeo and parade lineup features a three-hour performance you will enjoy six adrenaline-rushing PRCA events, including bull and bronc riding, tie-down roping, steer wrestling, bareback riding, WPRA barrel racing, local team roping, and mutton bustin'. You will also experience rodeo's top announcers, bull riders, barrelmen and stock contractors. Rodeo each day is at 7 PM. The Sunday June 5th rodeo is at 2 PM which is the best bet for photography. June 4th is the parade with beautiful floats, show horses. Location: Elks Unocal Event Center 4040 Highway 101 at Santa Maria Way Santa Maria CA. http://www.smelksrodeo.org/

June 3-5 - Temecula Balloon and Wine Festival - Temecula
FESTIVAL LOCATION: Lake Skinner Recreation Area 37701 Warren Rd. Winchester, CA 92596
GATES OPEN: 5:00 pm FRIDAY, 6:00 am SATURDAY AND SUNDAY HOURS: Friday - 5:00 pm to 11:00 pm., Saturday - 6:00 am to 11:00 pm., Sunday - 6:00 am to 6:00 pm.
Photographers revel in the visuals from dawn mass balloon ascensions to evening balloon glows. The Festival kicks off Friday, June 4 at 5 p.m. with a country music concert on the main stage, arts and craft fair, wine tasting and the luminescent extravaganza known as the "Balloon Glow." The Glow is created when balloon pilots synchronize igniting burners of the balloons. The burner is what creates the “hot” in the air. Whether done to a musical beat or the crowd’s demand to “Glow,” the balloons appear to dance as they flicker and shine against the hues of dusk and nightfall. Held both Friday and Saturday nights around 8 p.m. (after dusk), the Glow is one of the most popular entertainment options of the Festival. Saturday and Sunday mornings are spectacular at the Festival when colorful hot air balloons dot the pastel dawn skies of Temecula. The mass balloon ascension takes place between 6 a.m. and 7 a.m. weather permitting. Guests are encouraged to arrive early as hot air balloons need the cool morning air to fly.

June 4 - Loews Coronado Surf Dog Competition - Imperial Beach
See Spot surf at the Loews Dog Surfing Competition – the nation’s original surfing competition for man’s best friend. Each year, dozens of canines from across the U.S. hang 10 (errr, 20) for a great cause. Dunes Park/Beach 700 Seacoast Drive. 10AM-2PM, http://www.loewssurfdog.blogspot.com/

June 4 - Steve McQueen Car Show - Chino Hills
On June 5th, we will again gather for the 3rd Annual Friends of Steve McQueen Car Show. Once again, all Show proceeds will benefit the Boys Republic in Chino Hills.
Chad McQueen shows off his fathers cars alongside more than 200 Porsches, Ferraris, Cobras and Mustangs on the grounds of the Boys Republic. http://www.mcqueenonline.com/thefriendsofstevemcqueencarshow2011.htm

June 4 - Gilmore Heritage Auto Show - Los Angeles
To celebrate the rich history of Gilmore Gas and its extraordinary impact on the car culture of California, Farmers Market hosts one of the most entertaining casual car shows in the West. Typically featuring more than 100 vintage and classic American cars – old cars, modified hot rods, unique brands and models – the show is always held on the first Saturday in June. More than a decade old, the Gilmore Heritage Auto Show is a great celebration of cars and those who drive them.
http://www.farmersmarketla.com/special_events/events/autoshow/index.asp
11AM to 5pm 6333 West 3rd. St., 3rd and Fairfax. FREE

June 4 - Sand and Surf Festival and Car Show - Yorba Linda
Pre 1976 cars, 9AM-4PM. 16850 Basthachury Rd, at Prospect. 150 Cars. Vendors, Live Music and Food.

June 4-5 - Concours d-Elegance - Huntington Beach
Vintage cars, motorcycles, and bicycles with live bands, kids activities, food and automotive memorabilia. Hours 9 AM - 5 PM .Huntington Beach Central Park 7111 Talbert Ave. - Huntington Beach, CA www.hbconcours.org $10.00.

June 4-5 - Wings Over Gillespie Air Show - El Cajon
Airplane enthusiasts and history buffs will want to see these famous aircraft of WWII coming to Gillespie Field Airport. B-17 Flying Fortress ’Sentimental Journey’ and B-25 Mitchell ‘Maid in the Shade’ from the Commemorative Air Force Arizona Wing Aviation Museum will be on display at Gillespie Field Airport offering rides and tours Tuesday, May 31 through Sunday, June 5. Both WWII Bombers will be the main attraction at the Wings Over Gillespie Airshow. http://ag1caf.org/ Charge for tours and flights. Other aricraft displays, live entertainment and food.

June 4-5 - Antique Wooden Boat Show - Lake Arrowhead
This magnificent boat show features sixty of the finest antique and classic wooden boats which are displayed on the dockside of Lake Arrowhead Village where visitors can view these wonderful boats. www.lakearrowhead.net

June 11 - Rods and Rails Car Show - Perris
The 12th Annual Rods and Rails Extravaganza, always a huge hit with lovers of classic cars, trains and Perris history, promises something for everyone who drops by the Orange Empire Railway Museum to take in the show. The City of Perris once again is teaming up with the Railway Museum and the Perris Valley Historical and Museum Association on the Rods and Rails Festival. Event organizers expect 4,500 to 5,000-visitors for the June 11 event, another in series of festivals and celebrations highlighting Perris 100th birthday. 100 to 120-classic cars and 50 motorcycles to be on display. Rods and Rails 2011 also includes free admission and free parking. http://www.cityofperris.org

June 10-12 - Ink-N-Iron Festival and Car Show - Long Beach
Queen Mary, $35.00. People are here for the love of Hot Rods-Kustoms, Live music, burlesque, art shows, 50’s fashion, and of course the tattoo show covering three floors inside the ship. 280 of the best tattoo artists in the world will be on hand from 30 States and 25 Countries representing all the tattoo styles; where a car show and music become an integral part of the event, mingling with the artistic expressions of the artists at work. Pinups clad in corsets, Classic Cats with Pompadours, Mohawks, fashion Mullets, full sleeves and back pieces. Not only is the breathtaking view of the gigantic Queen Mary, the beautiful water, and the amazing Long Beach skyline quite a task to take in all at once, but all the fashion statements and lavishly adorned people are quite a spectacle as well. This convention will be both a sort of art gallery and community festival. Seven years ago the ship was overtaken by the underground subculture of all things Kustom and modified. From tattooing to pin striping and tantalizing show goers with tight corsets the 8th Annual Ink-N-Iron Festival is laced up and racing for port! http://ink-n-iron.com/

June 11-12 - San Luis Rey Indian Powwow - Oceanside
At the San Luis Rey Mission Grounds. Arts and Crafts, food, dancers and drums.
Sat. 10AM-11PM, Sun. 10AM-6PM. No photography during the Grand Entrance. 4050 Mission Ave. http://www.slrmissionindians.org/Site/Events.html

June 12 - Classic Car Show - San Clemente
The Downtown Business Association, in partnership with the City of San Clemente, proudly presents the 16th Annual Car Show. Sunday June 12th from 10:00-3:00. Free Spectator admission. 300 cars will be on display on Del Mar in the heart of historical Downtown San Clemente. Come on down to our fabulous family event packed with entertainment, vendors, and food. http://www.villagesanclemente.org/carshow.htm

June 12 - LA Pride Parade - Hollywood
One of the largest and most inclusive parades in Los Angeles, the LA PRIDE Parade steps off at 11:00 a.m. on Sunday, June 12 and travels westbound along Santa Monica Blvd., from Crescent Heights Blvd., to the main entrance of the LA PRIDE Festival at San Vicente Blvd. Over 400,000 will participate in this emotionally charged gathering showcasing the colorful diversity and creative community participation of the LGBT community. Attendees should plan to arrive early. Traffic will be closed on Santa Monica Blvd. between Fairfax Ave. and Doheny Dr. starting at 6:00 a.m. on Sunday June 12. Santa Monica Blvd. will re-open immediately at the end of the end of the Parade, which may be as late as 4:00 p.m.
www.lapride.org

June 17-19 - Pismo Beach Classic Car Show - Pismo Beach
The Classic at Pismo Beach is one of the largest classic car and street rod shows on the West Coast and "one of the finest." Pismo Beach, California, is the host city for this classic car show, now coming up on its 25th year. This show, held annually on the 3rd full weekend of June, pulls in 1000 classic cars and street rods and over 125,000 spectators over three days. www.the pismobeachclassic.com Location down by the pier.

June 18 - Classic Car Show - Los Angeles
Heritage Park, 3800 Homer Street. Vintage Automobile and Classic Show, Saturday, June 18, 11 am.—4 pm. Bring your Dad or favorite car enthusiast to enjoy an up-close look at rare and beautifully crafted automobiles over a 40 year time span, from the Model T to the 1950s hotrods. If you would like to exhibit your classic car, call the museum offices, 323-225-2700, for more information. http://www.heritagesquare.org/calendar_of_events.htm

June 19 - Rodeo Drive Concours d'Elegance - Beverly Hills
The Rodeo Drive Concours d'Elegance will celebrate "The Art of Italian Motoring" on June 19, 2011. The annual event will take place as the country of Italy marks an important milestone with the 150th anniversary of the Unification of Italy. In celebration, Rodeo Drive will pay tribute to some of the most famous names in Italian design and lifestyle. "The annual Father's Day event will highlight a WORLD CLASS combination of automobiles, motorcycles and designers featuring Italian makes and models," says Bruce Meyer, Chairman of the annual event. "We hope to curate the best selection of Alfa Romeo, Ferrari, Fiat, Lamborghini, Lancia and Maseratis from Southern California and the Western United States for this year's tribute to Italy."
10AM-4PM in the 200-400 blocks of Rodeo Drive. http://www.rodeodrive-bh.com/CNC/CNC_2011.html

June 18-19 - Irish Fair and Festival - Irvine
Celebrating its 36th year, The Irish Fair & Music Festival has become the largest festival of its kind in Western America. With 16 entertainment areas featuring the best in Irish music and numerous events and display, the fair visitor will be hard pressed to take it all in. On the left is a list on the many attractions the fair has to offer and over the years the fair has brought the best Ireland. Entertainers such as Tommy Makem, the Clancy Brothers, Hal Roach, Andy Cooney, The Chieftans, the Irish Rovers, Carmel Quinn, Dennis Day and in recent years The Fenians and Young Dubliners just to name a few. We are proud of this tradition and promise to continue it. Irvine Meadows, 8808 Irvine Center Drive. http://www.irishfair.org/html/irish_fair.html

June 18-19 - Pasadena Chalk Festival - Pasadena
The 19th Annual Pasadena Chalk Festival, recipient of the 2010 Guinness World Record for the Largest Display of Chalk Art, will be held once again Father’s Day Weekend June 18 and 19, 2011 at Paseo Colorado. Each year thousands of spectators enjoy the annual festival that is open to the public and free of charge. Paseo Colorado’s outdoor setting with fountains and garden promenades provides a venue for the Pasadena Chalk Festival to continue the legacy of the street painting art form by offering festival visitors an opportunity to shop, dine or see a movie as the works of art come to life. Paseo Colorado is located at 280 East Colorado Boulevard (between Marengo and Los Robles Avenues) http://www.pasadenachalkfestival.com/

June 24-26 - Tall Ships Festival - Oxnard
Tall Ships® converge on Channel Islands Harbor in a magnificent display of seafaring power and beauty. Stroll harborside and enjoy these beautiful ships close up, or climb aboard to explore the decks and hear first hand their history – and a few good yarns! You might even choose to set sail and be part of a sea-battle re-enactment – if you dare! Step aboard and explore our site, order tickets, or download our children's pages. Whether you're a landlubber or a sea-farer, set sail for Channel Islands Harbor this summer for a voyage you'll never forget! Channel Islands Harbor.
Dockside tours of Tall Ships, battle reenactment sales, pirate camps and food.
http://www.tallshipschannelislands.com/

June 24-26 - Street Painting Festival - Temecula
More than 100 artist create works of art on the asphalt canvas of Main Street. There will be space for amateurs to creat their own art work. Music and food.
http://www.temeculacalifornia.com

June 25 - Juvenile Diabetis Charity Car Show - Ontario
Last years show had over 300 autos representing over 40 clubs and individuals and over 2,000 spectators in attendance. The car show takes place at Cucamonga-Guasti Regional Park in Ontario , with a lake setting and parking on the grass. Music, live auction and vendors. www.jdrfinlandempire.com

June 25-26 - San Diego Pirate Festival - San Diego
10AM-6PM at Four Points Sheraton 8110 Aero Drive. Music, dancing, reeanactors, outdoor pirate village and indoor pavilion. www.goldcoastfestivals.com

June 25-16 - San Diego Scottish Highland Games - Vista
Highland dancing, bagpipe and drumming competitions, sheepdog trials, athletic compeitions, food and drink. Brengle Terrace Park 1200 Vale Terrace Drive. 9AM-5PM.
www.sdhighlandgames.com

June 26 - Firefighters Car Show - Rancho Cucamonga
Join Rancho Cucamonga Firefighters for their 14th Annual Car Show to benefit local burn survivors through the Firefighters Quest for Burn Survivors and the Burn Institute - Inland Empire. Enjoy beautifully restored classic cars, opportunity drawings and Oldies music in this lakeside park setting. Public admission is free so bring the kids, family and pets to check out this event in support of local burn survivors. 9AM - 2 PM. http://www.cityofrc.us/cals/default.asp

July 2011

July 9-10 - Lotus Festival - Los Angeles
Location: Echo Park. The mission of the Lotus Festival is to develop, promote and create an atmosphere of understanding in which Asian and Pacific Islander communities in Southern California are brought together for two (2) days of cultural sharing. Opening Ceremonies on Saturday, July 9, 2011 at 12:00 p.m., to earmark the celebration of the 33rd Lotus Festival, which includes live music, dance and entertainment from a variety of performers representing many of the diverse countries of Asia and the Pacific Islands. This year, the Festival will highlight the people and cultures of Thailand with the support of the Royal Thai Consulate General Los Angeles. Echo Park Lake in Los Angeles, California, is located on Park Avenue between Glendale Avenue and Echo Park Boulevard, just north of the Hollywood (101) and Pasadena (110) freeway junction, near Dodger Stadium. http://www.laparks.org/calendar/lotus/lotus.htm Dragon Boat races are one of the major events for photographers.

July 9-10 - Fort MacArthur Days - San Pedro
Location fort MacArthur Museum, Angel State Park, 3601 South Gaffey. Big Event with reeanactments from Civil War to WWII. Hours 10am-4pm. http://fortmacarthur.tripod.com/ or www.ftmac.org

July 30-31 - Long Beach Civil War Reeanactment - Long Beach
Location: El Dorado park, 7550 E Spring St., Hours 10am-5pm. $10.00 adults/$8.00 Seniors. http://www.beachcalifornia.com/california/civil-war-reenact-events.

SoCal Photo Opps May 2011

2011-05-01T19:42:00.000-07:00

Through Sept. 5 - Pavilion of Wings - Los Angeles
More than 40 different butterfly and moth species and an array of plants take up residence every summer for our much-anticipated seasonal exhibit, the Pavilion of Wings. Wander through a unique changing and growing ecosystem. Witness wondrous free-flying creatures interacting with plant life and with each other and emerge with a better understanding of the environment needed for the survival of these spectacular animals. Los Angeles Natural History Museum, 900 Exposition Blvd. www.nhm.org

MAY 2011

May 7 - June 19 Weekends. Koroneburg Old World Festival - Corona
This is my favorite renaissance fair located at Riverview Park, off River Road. They have permanent buildings that make great backdrops, lots of shade, flat walking area. This is a smaller event than the one in Irwindale. I think this makes for better images. Lots of entertainment. Meet hundreds of family members living, working & playing in Southern California’s only permanent Renaissance Village! Visitors to this 1450-1600 European Village are entertained, discover fine arts and crafts, and enjoy delectable food and beverages. The setting is the fictitious estate of the Baron Heinrich Von Lauffer, located along the Rhine river (aka Santa Ana River) between Mainz and Strasbourg. Each year the Baron invites the finest minds and most talented actors to celebrate the coming of spring at his Barony of Koroneburg. The festival celebrates the inventions and changes of the renaissance period. Time: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturdays & 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sundays. Location: Crossroads Riverview Park 14600 River Rd, Corona, CA 92880. Cost: $18 Adult; $15 Child 5-11 or Senior 62+; $12 Military with valid ID; Children under 5 Free.
www.renaissanceinfo.com/riverview

May 7 - National Train Day - Los Angeles
Downtown Union Station, 800 N Alameda St. Come on down to the station and join the celebration in Los Angeles! Don't miss your chance to see model trains, train equipment displays and much more: •The Railroad Braceros Exhibit* •Train Equipment Displays* •Model Train Displays* •AmtraKids Depot Go-Green Express: Eco Exhibit*
•National Park Service Trails & Rails Exhibit* •Snapshot Station •Trains Move our Economy Exhibit* •Amtrak: Dining the Rail Way* exhibit and culinary demonstrations, featuring Chef Marcel Lagnaz •Amtrak Brand Display - Enjoy the journey®* •Amtrak California: A Winning Partnership* •Live performances. http://www.nationaltrainday.com

May 14 Moonridge Zoo Photographers Day and Photo Contest - Big Bear
This small zoo in the mountains has a photo day and contest to get pictures for their calender. Susan and I had 4 images in the 2009 Calender. View at the website. Photo Day is 10AM-4PM. Special photo ops with some of the animals. http://www.moonridgezoo.org/map/programsevents.html

May 14-15 - Planes of Fame Air Show - Chino
7000 Merrill at the Chino Airport. Gates open 8AM-5PM, Show 11AM to 4PM.
Come experience the excitement! This year’s show will feature over 40 historic aircraft performing for your enjoyment as well as a salute to 100 years of Naval aviation. U.S. Naval Aviation Centennial events honor a century of mission-ready men and women and recognize their unique aviation-related achievements. During this yearlong, national celebration of Naval Aviation, Planes of Fame Air Museum, in conjunction with the County of San Bernardino, is proud to present "Air Show 2011: Celebrating 100 years of U.S. Naval Aviation". http://www.planesoffame.org/index.php?page=general-info. $20.00 at the Gate, Parking is Free.

May 14-15 - Rail Festival - Perris
A weekend of fun for the whole family with live music, children's activities and special exhibits. Ride trains and trolleys all day plus a special mini "Run One where you can "take the throttle" on a real locomotive (there is an extracharge for this activity. 9AM-5PM. There will be live bluegrass music, a special parade of Los Angeles trolleys on our "Loop Line", children's bouncy tents, handcar rides, exhibits from the Knott's Berry Farm railroad as well as other special features.
There will also be food vendors on site for lunch. Both trolleys and diesel powered trains will operate on the mainline! This is a gated event, admission is $12 for adults, $8 children 5-11. This price includes unlimited rides on the trains and trolleys*. www.oerm.org

May 14-15 - Annual Muckenthaler Motorcar Festival - Fullerton
The oldest and grandest car show in North Orange County hosts Hot Rods and a Concours D’Elegance with the true classics of the automotive industry spread out over eight acres of lawns. While enjoying the cars, feast on Heroes’ Deli ribs and beer and listen to live music. Make sure to visit our special gallery exhibits featuring Pinewood Design ‘11 and car themed artwork in the main gallery. Proceeds benefit our childrens art programs. There will also be a special performance on Sunday, May 15, by Janet Klein and her Parlour Boys. They wowed us last year with their bawdy songs from the 1920s. Muckenthaler Cultural Center, 1201 W. Malvern, Fullerton. 8am-2PM Sat, 10am-4pm Sunday. http://themuck.org/s/motor-car-festival

May 14-15 - Pierce College Heritage Days (civil war reeanactment) Woodland Hills
Visitors will view exciting cavalry charges, artillery barrages, and infantry assaults that were part of America's watershed event, one that transformed a mere union of states into a nation! Throughout each day, demonstrations and presentations will take place, including Victorian dancing, military drill, and skills and crafts from the era. Historical notables from the past will address all of those present, and President Lincoln will give his famous Gettysburg Address as part of a grand "Living History" program. After seeing reenactors and historical personages who appear as if they have leaped from the pages of history books, visitors will leave the event with a far better appreciation of the political issues, the aspects of daily life, and the great sacrifices and hardships endured by both sides in this greatest of American conflicts, the consequences of which still affect our country today. 10 AM-5PM, 6201 Winnetka Avenue,http://www.civilwaralliance.com/CWA/PierceCollege.html

May 14-15 - Bug Fair - Los Angeles
Interactive educational booths, pet insects, displays, vendors and music, Natural History Museum of Los Angeles, 900 Exhibition Blvd. www.nhm.org

May 15 Civil War Reenactment - Ft. Tejon.
Ft Tejon was an actual Fort during the civil war days. It is between Bakersfield and LA in the Grapevine area on Hwy. 5
Battles are at 10:30AM and 1:00 PM on the 3rd Sunday during the Spring and Summer. Like all events, get there early to get the best images. battles are on the actual old Fort Tejon grounds among some of the old buildings. Bring lunch. http://www.forttejon.org/progcw.html

May 21 - Ranch Tour - Norco
Self-guided tour of seven ranches, horse drawn wagon and carriage rides, lunch and performances by equestrian groups. 11AM-4PM Start at any ranch and spend as much time as you like at each. Visit www.friendsofnorcohills.com for locations. $10.00 for adults, children under 12 free.

May 21 - Battle of the Mariachi Festival - San Juan Capistrano
The festival includes "Battle of the Mariachis", live musical entertainment, cultural merchandise, children’s art workshops, mariachi vocals and authentic Mexican food. Mariachi performers compete for cash prizes. At the Mission
http://www.missionsjc.com/activities/signature_MariachiBattle.php

May 22 - Japanese Festival - Van Nuys
Taiko drumming, a tea ceremony, origami, ikebana, bonsai and storytelling. Japanese Tea Garden,6100 Woodley Ave. Van Nuys, CA 91406. 10AM-3PM. Admission $5.00. www.thejapanesegarden.com.

May 24-29 Mule Days Celebration - Bishop
Over 700 mules compete in 14 shows, plus a country music concert, parade, barbacue and dances. Every year during the Memorial Day Weekend, more than 700 mules compete in 181 events at the Bishop Mule Days Celebration. There is no way to actually describe Mule Days. It is part mule show, part test of skills, and part Wild West show. Situated on the Tri-County Fairgrounds in Bishop, California, Mule Days has become an international world class event. Crowds have grown from 200 to more than 30,000 fans! Highlights of the Celebration include the Thursday night concert, featuring Country Music stars, the longest running non-motorized parade on Saturday morning, Steer roping and penning, an event normally reserved for quarter horses, and the Packer's Scramble – the wildest, noisiest and funniest event of the weekend.
www.muledays.org

May 28-29 - Scots Fest - Costa Mesa
Celtic music, piping and drumming, Scottish athletics, Highland Danceing, Scottish Food, sheephearding demos. Orance County Fair and Event Center, 88 Fair Drive. 9AM-5PM. www.scotsfest.com

JUNE 2011

June 2-5 Santa Maria Elks Rodeo. - Santa Maria
68th Annual rodeo and parade lineup features a three-hour performance you will enjoy six adrenaline-rushing PRCA events, including bull and bronc riding, tie-down roping, steer wrestling, bareback riding, WPRA barrel racing, local team roping, and mutton bustin'. You will also experience rodeo's top announcers, bull riders, barrelmen and stock contractors. Rodeo each day is at 7 PM. The Sunday June 5th rodeo is at 2 PM which is the best bet for photography. June 4th is the parade with beautiful floats, show horses. Location: Elks Unocal Event Center 4040 Highway 101 at Santa Maria Way Santa Maria CA. http://www.smelksrodeo.org/

June 3-5 - Temecula Balloon and Wine Festival - Temecula
FESTIVAL LOCATION: Lake Skinner Recreation Area 37701 Warren Rd. Winchester, CA 92596
GATES OPEN: 5:00 pm FRIDAY, 6:00 am SATURDAY AND SUNDAY HOURS: Friday - 5:00 pm to 11:00 pm., Saturday - 6:00 am to 11:00 pm., Sunday - 6:00 am to 6:00 pm.
Photographers revel in the visuals from dawn mass balloon ascensions to evening balloon glows. The Festival kicks off Friday, June 4 at 5 p.m. with a country music concert on the main stage, arts and craft fair, wine tasting and the luminescent extravaganza known as the "Balloon Glow." The Glow is created when balloon pilots synchronize igniting burners of the balloons. The burner is what creates the “hot” in the air. Whether done to a musical beat or the crowd’s demand to “Glow,” the balloons appear to dance as they flicker and shine against the hues of dusk and nightfall. Held both Friday and Saturday nights around 8 p.m. (after dusk), the Glow is one of the most popular entertainment options of the Festival. Saturday and Sunday mornings are spectacular at the Festival when colorful hot air balloons dot the pastel dawn skies of Temecula. The mass balloon ascension takes place between 6 a.m. and 7 a.m. weather permitting. Guests are encouraged to arrive early as hot air balloons need the cool morning air to fly.

June 4 - Steve McQueen Car Show - Chino Hills
On June 5th, we will again gather for the 3rd Annual Friends of Steve McQueen Car Show. Once again, all Show proceeds will benefit the Boys Republic in Chino Hills.
Chad McQueen shows off his fathers cars alongside more than 200 Porsches, Ferraris, Cobras and Mustangs on the grounds of the Boys Republic. http://www.mcqueenonline.com/thefriendsofstevemcqueencarshow2011.htm

June 4 - Gilmore Heritage Auto Show - Los Angeles
To celebrate the rich history of Gilmore Gas and its extraordinary impact on the car culture of California, Farmers Market hosts one of the most entertaining casual car shows in the West. Typically featuring more than 100 vintage and classic American cars – old cars, modified hot rods, unique brands and models – the show is always held on the first Saturday in June. More than a decade old, the Gilmore Heritage Auto Show is a great celebration of cars and those who drive them.
http://www.farmersmarketla.com/special_events/events/autoshow/index.asp
11AM to 5pm 6333 West 3rd. St., 3rd and Fairfax. FREE

June 4 - Sand and Surf Festival and Car Show - Yorba Linda
Pre 1976 cars, 9AM-4PM. 16850 Basthachury Rd, at Prospect. 150 Cars. Vendors, Live Music and Food.

June 4-5 - Concours d-Elegance - Huntington Beach
Vintage cars, motorcycles, and bicycles with live bands, kids activities, food and automotive memorabilia. Hours 9 AM - 5 PM .Huntington Beach Central Park 7111 Talbert Ave. - Huntington Beach, CA www.hbconcours.org $10.00.

June 4-5 - Antique Wooden Boat Show - Lake Arrowhead
This magnificent boat show features sixty of the finest antique and classic wooden boats which are displayed on the dockside of Lake Arrowhead Village where visitors can view these wonderful boats. www.lakearrowhead.net

June 11 - Rods and Rails Car Show - Perris
The 12th Annual Rods and Rails Extravaganza, always a huge hit with lovers of classic cars, trains and Perris history, promises something for everyone who drops by the Orange Empire Railway Museum to take in the show. The City of Perris once again is teaming up with the Railway Museum and the Perris Valley Historical and Museum Association on the Rods and Rails Festival. Event organizers expect 4,500 to 5,000-visitors for the June 11 event, another in series of festivals and celebrations highlighting Perris 100th birthday. 100 to 120-classic cars and 50 motorcycles to be on display. Rods and Rails 2011 also includes free admission and free parking. http://www.cityofperris.org

June 10-12 - Ink-N-Iron Festival and Car Show - Long Beach
Queen Mary, $35.00. People are here for the love of Hot Rods-Kustoms, Live music, burlesque, art shows, 50’s fashion, and of course the tattoo show covering three floors inside the ship. 280 of the best tattoo artists in the world will be on hand from 30 States and 25 Countries representing all the tattoo styles; where a car show and music become an integral part of the event, mingling with the artistic expressions of the artists at work. Pinups clad in corsets, Classic Cats with Pompadours, Mohawks, fashion Mullets, full sleeves and back pieces. Not only is the breathtaking view of the gigantic Queen Mary, the beautiful water, and the amazing Long Beach skyline quite a task to take in all at once, but all the fashion statements and lavishly adorned people are quite a spectacle as well. This convention will be both a sort of art gallery and community festival. Seven years ago the ship was overtaken by the underground subculture of all things Kustom and modified. From tattooing to pin striping and tantalizing show goers with tight corsets the 8th Annual Ink-N-Iron Festival is laced up and racing for port! http://ink-n-iron.com/

June 12 - Classic Car Show - San Clemente
The Downtown Business Association, in partnership with the City of San Clemente, proudly presents the 16th Annual Car Show. Sunday June 12th from 10:00-3:00. Free Spectator admission. 300 cars will be on display on Del Mar in the heart of historical Downtown San Clemente. Come on down to our fabulous family event packed with entertainment, vendors, and food. http://www.villagesanclemente.org/carshow.htm

June 12 - LA Pride Parade - Hollywood
One of the largest and most inclusive parades in Los Angeles, the LA PRIDE Parade steps off at 11:00 a.m. on Sunday, June 12 and travels westbound along Santa Monica Blvd., from Crescent Heights Blvd., to the main entrance of the LA PRIDE Festival at San Vicente Blvd. Over 400,000 will participate in this emotionally charged gathering showcasing the colorful diversity and creative community participation of the LGBT community. Attendees should plan to arrive early. Traffic will be closed on Santa Monica Blvd. between Fairfax Ave. and Doheny Dr. starting at 6:00 a.m. on Sunday June 12. Santa Monica Blvd. will re-open immediately at the end of the end of the Parade, which may be as late as 4:00 p.m.
www.lapride.org

June 18 - Classic Car Show - Los Angeles
Heritage Park, 3800 Homer Street. Vintage Automobile and Classic Show, Saturday, June 18, 11 am.—4 pm. Bring your Dad or favorite car enthusiast to enjoy an up-close look at rare and beautifully crafted automobiles over a 40 year time span, from the Model T to the 1950s hotrods. If you would like to exhibit your classic car, call the museum offices, 323-225-2700, for more information. http://www.heritagesquare.org/calendar_of_events.htm

June 19 - Rodeo Drive Concours d'Elegance - Beverly Hills
The Rodeo Drive Concours d'Elegance will celebrate "The Art of Italian Motoring" on June 19, 2011. The annual event will take place as the country of Italy marks an important milestone with the 150th anniversary of the Unification of Italy. In celebration, Rodeo Drive will pay tribute to some of the most famous names in Italian design and lifestyle. "The annual Father's Day event will highlight a WORLD CLASS combination of automobiles, motorcycles and designers featuring Italian makes and models," says Bruce Meyer, Chairman of the annual event. "We hope to curate the best selection of Alfa Romeo, Ferrari, Fiat, Lamborghini, Lancia and Maseratis from Southern California and the Western United States for this year's tribute to Italy."
10AM-4PM in the 200-400 blocks of Rodeo Drive. http://www.rodeodrive-bh.com/CNC/CNC_2011.html

June 18-19 - Irish Fair and Festival - Irvine
Celebrating its 36th year, The Irish Fair & Music Festival has become the largest festival of its kind in Western America. With 16 entertainment areas featuring the best in Irish music and numerous events and display, the fair visitor will be hard pressed to take it all in. On the left is a list on the many attractions the fair has to offer and over the years the fair has brought the best Ireland. Entertainers such as Tommy Makem, the Clancy Brothers, Hal Roach, Andy Cooney, The Chieftans, the Irish Rovers, Carmel Quinn, Dennis Day and in recent years The Fenians and Young Dubliners just to name a few. We are proud of this tradition and promise to continue it. Irvine Meadows, 8808 Irvine Center Drive. http://www.irishfair.org/html/irish_fair.html

June 18-19 - Pasadena Chalk Festival - Pasadena
The 19th Annual Pasadena Chalk Festival, recipient of the 2010 Guinness World Record for the Largest Display of Chalk Art, will be held once again Father’s Day Weekend June 18 and 19, 2011 at Paseo Colorado. Each year thousands of spectators enjoy the annual festival that is open to the public and free of charge. Paseo Colorado’s outdoor setting with fountains and garden promenades provides a venue for the Pasadena Chalk Festival to continue the legacy of the street painting art form by offering festival visitors an opportunity to shop, dine or see a movie as the works of art come to life. Paseo Colorado is located at 280 East Colorado Boulevard (between Marengo and Los Robles Avenues) http://www.pasadenachalkfestival.com/

June 24-26 - Tall Ships Festival - Oxnard
Tall Ships® converge on Channel Islands Harbor in a magnificent display of seafaring power and beauty. Stroll harborside and enjoy these beautiful ships close up, or climb aboard to explore the decks and hear first hand their history – and a few good yarns! You might even choose to set sail and be part of a sea-battle re-enactment – if you dare! Step aboard and explore our site, order tickets, or download our children's pages. Whether you're a landlubber or a sea-farer, set sail for Channel Islands Harbor this summer for a voyage you'll never forget! Channel Islands Harbor.
http://www.tallshipschannelislands.com/

June 24-26 - Street Painting Festival - Temecula
More than 100 artist create works of art on the asphalt canvas of Main Street. There will be space for amateurs to creat their own art work. Music and food.
http://www.temeculacalifornia.com

June 25 - Juvenile Diabetis Charity Car Show - Ontario
Last years show had over 300 autos representing over 40 clubs and individuals and over 2,000 spectators in attendance. The car show takes place at Cucamonga-Guasti Regional Park in Ontario , with a lake setting and parking on the grass. Music, live auction and vendors. www.jdrfinlandempire.com

June 26 - Firefighters Car Show - Rancho Cucamonga
Join Rancho Cucamonga Firefighters for their 14th Annual Car Show to benefit local burn survivors through the Firefighters Quest for Burn Survivors and the Burn Institute - Inland Empire. Enjoy beautifully restored classic cars, opportunity drawings and Oldies music in this lakeside park setting. Public admission is free so bring the kids, family and pets to check out this event in support of local burn survivors. 9AM - 2 PM. http://www.cityofrc.us/cals/default.asp

July 2011

July 9-10 - Lotus Festival - Los Angeles
Location: Echo Park. The mission of the Lotus Festival is to develop, promote and create an atmosphere of understanding in which Asian and Pacific Islander communities in Southern California are brought together for two (2) days of cultural sharing. Opening Ceremonies on Saturday, July 9, 2011 at 12:00 p.m., to earmark the celebration of the 33rd Lotus Festival, which includes live music, dance and entertainment from a variety of performers representing many of the diverse countries of Asia and the Pacific Islands. This year, the Festival will highlight the people and cultures of Thailand with the support of the Royal Thai Consulate General Los Angeles. Echo Park Lake in Los Angeles, California, is located on Park Avenue between Glendale Avenue and Echo Park Boulevard, just north of the Hollywood (101) and Pasadena (110) freeway junction, near Dodger Stadium. http://www.laparks.org/calendar/lotus/lotus.htm Dragon Boat races are one of the major events for photographers.

July 9-10 - Fort MacArthur Days - San Pedro
Location fort MacArthur Museum, Angel State Park, 3601 South Gaffey. Big Event with reeanactments from Civil War to WWII. Hours 10am-4pm. http://fortmacarthur.tripod.com/ or www.ftmac.org

July 30-31 - Long Beach Civil War Reeanactment - Long Beach
Location: El Dorado park, 7550 E Spring St., Hours 10am-5pm. $10.00 adults/$8.00 Seniors. http://www.beachcalifornia.com/california/civil-war-reenact-events.

SoCal Photo Opps April 2011

2011-03-29T20:19:00.000-07:00

Through Sept. 5 - Pavilion of Wings - Los Angeles
More than 40 different butterfly and moth species and an array of plants take up residence every summer for our much-anticipated seasonal exhibit, the Pavilion of Wings. Wander through a unique changing and growing ecosystem. Witness wondrous free-flying creatures interacting with plant life and with each other and emerge with a better understanding of the environment needed for the survival of these spectacular animals. Los Angeles Natural History Museum, 900 Exposition Blvd. www.nhm.org

Through May 8 - Flower Fields - Carlsbad
For many years the Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch have been a favorite location to photograph the ranunculuses each spring. The ranch offers tours as well as special events such as Kid's Day and an Arts & Craft fair. The hillside looks like a carpet of color with 50 acres of extraordinary color in bloom on a hillside overlooking the Pacific Ocean, with a special nursery, garden, and gift shop. There will be a Canon Macro Photography workshop on Sunday April 17th, 10:30am - 3:00pm. Come and celebrate the beauty of The Flower Fields® with Canon USA at a macro photography workshop. The workshop is free with paid park admission. Address is 5704 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, CA 92008 off Hwy. From Los Angeles and Orange County:
Head south on Interstate 5 to Palomar Airport Road exit. Head east (left turn) on Palomar Airport Road to Paseo Del Norte and turn left. Make an immediate right into the parking lot. Visit www.theflowerfields.com for more information.

APRIL 2011

April 1-3 Del Mar Nationals - (car show) Del Mar Fairgrounds
More than 2,000 hot rods, customs, classics, muscle cars and trick trucks. Hours 8-5 Friday and Saturday, Sunday 8-3. http://www.delmarnats.com/dmn/index.php

April 2-3 - Crew Classic - San Diego
Regatta rowers from accross the country participate in one of the most distinquished rowing competitions in the US. Crown Point Shores, Mission Bay. www.crewclassic.org. There will be 106 races over two days. Across seven lanes, with the city skyline as a backdrop.

April 2-3 Civil War Reenactment - Prado Park - Chino. Prado Park is off Euclid, south of Chino. This is my favorite civil war reenactment. It is big, covers a lot of land and the battles are in a large field of rolling hills. Not much in the background to get in your way. Large camps with lots to shoot, lots of vendors. http://www.sccwa.com/CampoutFlyer11.pdf 2 Show Battles daily, 1 and 6 PM Saturday; 11am and 3pm Sunday.

April 2-3 and 9-10 Renaissance Faire - Escondido, CA
Location Felicita Park, 742 Clarence Lane. Hours 10-6 Daily http://www.goldcoastfestivals.com/Escondido.html

April 9-May 8 Butterflys at Wild Animal Park - Escondido
Every Spring the Wild Animal Park has a small Butterfly House, Butterfly Jungle. Get there when the park opens, by lunch the lines are a mile long. Also the butterflys are less active in the morning when the air is still cool so images are easier to get, when it gets warm, they don't sit still for long. Good selection but small.

April 9 - May 22 Weekends - Renaissance Pleasure Fair - Irwindale
This is the largest of the Renaissance Fairs, located at the Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area, 15501 E. Arrow Hwy. Hours 10 AM - 7 PM. www.renfair.com/socal $25.00 at the Gate.

April 10 Hurst Car Show - West Hills
Hurst Car Show. 3rd Annual Car Show open to all American made cars (street rods, hot rods, rat rods, muscle cars, etc.) Spectators get in FREE! Time: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Event will be held at Corporate Point at West Hills, 8521 Fallbrook, West Hills.

April 16 - Doheny Wood (car show) - Dana Point
Great chance to take pictures of classic Woodies. The 2011 show is scheduled for Saturday, April 16, 2011. The meet will be held at Doheny State Beach beginning at 8 AM and concluding at 3 PM. Doheny State Beach is located in Dana Point Harbor area at 25300 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, CA 92629. The woodie meet will be held at the south end of the park. $15.00 park entry fee, no charge for the show. http://socalwoodies.com/doheny.htm

April 16 People's Day at La Purisma Mission - Lompoc
It's 1822 at the mission as costumed docents and staff portray life of the mission during that era. Time: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Location: Highway 246 near Lompoc. www.lapurisimamission.org

April 16-17 - Battle of Costa Mesa - Costa Mesa
Fairview Park - Fairview Park’s uneven landscape serves as a perfect battleground for the men who reenact the “Battle of Costa Mesa” while dressed in “period correct” uniforms. With horses and weapons and various attires, some represented the United States and others represented various groups of the Southern states. http://www.acws.net/schedule.htm

April 16-17 California Poppy Festival - Lancaster
Hours 10am-6pm, Lots of enteratinment, foot, crafts, etc. Location: Lancaster City park 43011 N 10th Street West. If you go, be sure to go to the Poppy Perserve where the real pictures are. http://www.poppyfestival.com Admission prices are $8 for adults (13-61), $5 for seniors and children (6-12) and free for children under 5. Parking is free.

April 16-17 - Spring Busker Festival - San Diego Seaport Village
Noon to 5 PM - Free. Unsual street performers from accross the nation perform their family-friendly acts for the crowds. At Seaport Village. www.seaportvillage.com. A Busker is a street performer. Known for their unusual and comedic acts in Boston's Faneuil Hall or standing statue-like, painted in gold on San Francisco's Pier 39, these artists perform for tips in public venues across the globe. San Diego's Seaport Village hosts the only Busker Festival in Southern California. We bring professionals from across the country to perform their bizarre talents from sword swallowing to knife throwing to pogo stick tricks and juggling on unicycles. Throughout the two-day festival, some of the nation's top performers fill the bay front village drawing visitors to shop, dine and enjoy an entire day of one-of-a-kind entertainment.

April 15-17 Lakeside Rodeo and Parade - Lakeside (San Diego County)
PRCA Rodeo events, food, live music. Lakeside Rodeo Grounds, Hwy 67 and Mapleview.
Rodeo Events at 2 PM each day, gates open at 12:30. www.lakesiderodeo.com

April 16-24 - National Park Week - USA
If you are traveling this week, entrance fees into the National Parks will be free for all 392 National Parks. In addition, many national park concessioners are offering special promotions that are certain to add to your fun. http://www.nps.gov/findapark/feefreeparks.htm

Apr 17 – Orange Plaza Car Show - Orange
17th Annual Car Show in downtown Orange surrounds the circle with beautiful classic cars, More than 400 pre-1975 custom, classic, hot rod and street rods will be on display. There is no admission fee for spectators. Time: 8 am to 3 pm. Location: Chapman and N. Glassell. carshow@orangesunriserotary.org. 425 pre-1975 Street Rods, Custom and Classic vehicles will be on display. The show is estimated to bring out 15,000+ spectators to the beautiful Plaza area in the City of Orange. It is a wonderful event for the entire family to enjoy. Local restaurants and shops will welcome all in attendance. There is no admission fee for spectators.

April 17 Civil War Reenactment - Ft. Tejon.
Ft Tejon was an actual Fort during the civil war days. It is between Bakersfield and LA in the Grapevine area on Hwy. 5
Battles are at 10:30AM and 1:00 PM on the 3rd Sunday during the Spring and Summer. Like all events, get there early to get the best images. battles are on the actual old Fort Tejon grounds among some of the old buildings. Bring lunch. http://www.forttejon.org/progcw.html

April 24-May 1 Cowboy Festival - Santa Clarita
Big yearly event at the Melody Ranch Motion Picture Studio. Tours, street shows, living history performers, buffalo soldiers and lots of music and food. For more information call 661-286-4021 or www.cowboyfestival.org

April 30 - Doo Dah Parade - Pasadena
Annual Parade along Colorado Boulevard between Sierra Madre and San Gabriel Blvd. www.pasadenadoodahparade.info. Over 1,200 revelers will participate in this year’s Doo Dah, including the Electric Squirrels, Martinis in the Morning, Howdy Krishna, Stupidiotic Evolution, Mystik Krewe d’Dieux Dah, Zombies of Debt, Flying Baby Street Racing and Stroller Cross, Men of Leisure, LA Derby Dolls, Dead Robert Palmer Girls, Drunk in the Garage, and classics like the Benzedrine Monks, BBQ & Hibachi Marching Grill Team, Amnesty International, Raelian Religion, Doo Dah Random Dancers, Wicked Tinkers, Bastard Sons of Lee Marvin, Caesar’s Circus, Fabulous Sons of Ed Wood, Horses on Astroturf, The Disco Drill Team, L.A. Parrotheads, Doo Dah house band Snotty Scotty & the Hankies, AND MANY, MANY MORE!!! Starts at 11:00 AM.

MAY 2011

Through May 22 Weekends - Renaissance Pleasure Fair - Irwindale
This is the largest of the Renaissance Fairs, located at the Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area, 15501 E. Arrow Hwy. Hours 10 AM - 7 PM. www.renfair.com/socal $25.00 at the Gate.

May 7 - June 19 Weekends. Koroneburg Old World Festival - Corona
This is my favorite renaissance fair located at Riverview Park, off River Road. They have permanent buildings that make great backdrops, lots of shade, flat walking area. This is a smaller event than the one in Irwindale. I think this makes for better images. Lots of entertainment. Meet hundreds of family members living, working & playing in Southern California’s only permanent Renaissance Village! Visitors to this 1450-1600 European Village are entertained, discover fine arts and crafts, and enjoy delectable food and beverages. The setting is the fictitious estate of the Baron Heinrich Von Lauffer, located along the Rhine river (aka Santa Ana River) between Mainz and Strasbourg. Each year the Baron invites the finest minds and most talented actors to celebrate the coming of spring at his Barony of Koroneburg. The festival celebrates the inventions and changes of the renaissance period. Time: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturdays & 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sundays. Location: Crossroads Riverview Park 14600 River Rd, Corona, CA 92880. Cost: $18 Adult; $15 Child 5-11 or Senior 62+; $12 Military with valid ID; Children under 5 Free.
www.renaissanceinfo.com/riverview

May 7 - National Train Day - Los Angeles
Downtown Union Station, 800 N Alameda St. Come on down to the station and join the celebration in Los Angeles! Don't miss your chance to see model trains, train equipment displays and much more: •The Railroad Braceros Exhibit* •Train Equipment Displays* •Model Train Displays* •AmtraKids Depot Go-Green Express: Eco Exhibit*
•National Park Service Trails & Rails Exhibit* •Snapshot Station •Trains Move our Economy Exhibit* •Amtrak: Dining the Rail Way* exhibit and culinary demonstrations, featuring Chef Marcel Lagnaz •Amtrak Brand Display - Enjoy the journey®* •Amtrak California: A Winning Partnership* •Live performances. http://www.nationaltrainday.com

May 14 Moonridge Zoo Photographers Day and Photo Contest - Big Bear
This small zoo in the mountains has a photo day and contest to get pictures for their calender. Susan and I had 4 images in the 2009 Calender. View at the website. Photo Day is 10AM-4PM. Special photo ops with some of the animals. http://www.moonridgezoo.org/map/programsevents.html

May 14-15 - Planes of Fame Air Show - Chino
7000 Merrill at the Chino Airport. Gates open 8AM-5PM, Show 11AM to 4PM.
Come experience the excitement! This year’s show will feature over 40 historic aircraft performing for your enjoyment as well as a salute to 100 years of Naval aviation. U.S. Naval Aviation Centennial events honor a century of mission-ready men and women and recognize their unique aviation-related achievements. During this yearlong, national celebration of Naval Aviation, Planes of Fame Air Museum, in conjunction with the County of San Bernardino, is proud to present "Air Show 2011: Celebrating 100 years of U.S. Naval Aviation". http://www.planesoffame.org/index.php?page=general-info. $20.00 at the Gate, Parking is Free.

May 14-15 - Rail Festival - Perris
A weekend of fun for the whole family with live music, children's activities and special exhibits. Ride trains and trolleys all day plus a special mini "Run One where you can "take the throttle" on a real locomotive (there is an extracharge for this activity. 9AM-5PM. There will be live bluegrass music, a special parade of Los Angeles trolleys on our "Loop Line", children's bouncy tents, handcar rides, exhibits from the Knott's Berry Farm railroad as well as other special features.
There will also be food vendors on site for lunch. Both trolleys and diesel powered trains will operate on the mainline! This is a gated event, admission is $12 for adults, $8 children 5-11. This price includes unlimited rides on the trains and trolleys*. www.oerm.org

May 14-15 - Annual Muckenthaler Motorcar Festival - Fullerton
The oldest and grandest car show in North Orange County hosts Hot Rods and a Concours D’Elegance with the true classics of the automotive industry spread out over eight acres of lawns. While enjoying the cars, feast on Heroes’ Deli ribs and beer and listen to live music. Make sure to visit our special gallery exhibits featuring Pinewood Design ‘11 and car themed artwork in the main gallery. Proceeds benefit our childrens art programs. There will also be a special performance on Sunday, May 15, by Janet Klein and her Parlour Boys. They wowed us last year with their bawdy songs from the 1920s. Muckenthaler Cultural Center, 1201 W. Malvern, Fullerton. 8am-2PM Sat, 10am-4pm Sunday. http://themuck.org/s/motor-car-festival

May 14-15 - Bug Fair - Los Angeles
Interactive educational booths, pet insects, displays, vendors and music, Natural History Museum of Los Angeles, 900 Exhibition Blvd. www.nhm.org

May 15 Civil War Reenactment - Ft. Tejon.
Ft Tejon was an actual Fort during the civil war days. It is between Bakersfield and LA in the Grapevine area on Hwy. 5
Battles are at 10:30AM and 1:00 PM on the 3rd Sunday during the Spring and Summer. Like all events, get there early to get the best images. battles are on the actual old Fort Tejon grounds among some of the old buildings. Bring lunch. http://www.forttejon.org/progcw.html

May 21 - Ranch Tour - Norco
Self-guided tour of seven ranches, horse drawn wagon and carriage rides, lunch and performances by equestrian groups. 11AM-4PM Start at any ranch and spend as much time as you like at each. Visit www.friendsofnorcohills.com for locations. $10.00 for adults, children under 12 free.

May 21 - Battle of the Mariachi Festival - San Juan Capistrano
The festival includes "Battle of the Mariachis", live musical entertainment, cultural merchandise, children’s art workshops, mariachi vocals and authentic Mexican food. Mariachi performers compete for cash prizes. At the Mission
http://www.missionsjc.com/activities/signature_MariachiBattle.php

May 22 - Japanese Festival - Van Nuys
Taiko drumming, a tea ceremony, origami, ikebana, bonsai and storytelling. Japanese Tea Garden,6100 Woodley Ave. Van Nuys, CA 91406. 10AM-3PM. Admission $5.00. www.thejapanesegarden.com.

May 24-29 Mule Days Celebration - Bishop
Over 700 mules compete in 14 shows, plus a country music concert, parade, barbacue and dances. Every year during the Memorial Day Weekend, more than 700 mules compete in 181 events at the Bishop Mule Days Celebration. There is no way to actually describe Mule Days. It is part mule show, part test of skills, and part Wild West show. Situated on the Tri-County Fairgrounds in Bishop, California, Mule Days has become an international world class event. Crowds have grown from 200 to more than 30,000 fans! Highlights of the Celebration include the Thursday night concert, featuring Country Music stars, the longest running non-motorized parade on Saturday morning, Steer roping and penning, an event normally reserved for quarter horses, and the Packer's Scramble – the wildest, noisiest and funniest event of the weekend.
www.muledays.org

May 28-29 - Scots Fest - Costa Mesa
Celtic music, piping and drumming, Scottish athletics, Highland Danceing, Scottish Food, sheephearding demos. Orance County Fair and Event Center, 88 Fair Drive. 9AM-5PM. www.scotsfest.com

JUNE 2011

June 3-5 - Temecula Balloon and Wine Festival - Temecula
FESTIVAL LOCATION: Lake Skinner Recreation Area 37701 Warren Rd. Winchester, CA 92596
GATES OPEN: 5:00 pm FRIDAY, 6:00 am SATURDAY AND SUNDAY HOURS: Friday - 5:00 pm to 11:00 pm., Saturday - 6:00 am to 11:00 pm., Sunday - 6:00 am to 6:00 pm.
Photographers revel in the visuals from dawn mass balloon ascensions to evening balloon glows. The Festival kicks off Friday, June 4 at 5 p.m. with a country music concert on the main stage, arts and craft fair, wine tasting and the luminescent extravaganza known as the "Balloon Glow." The Glow is created when balloon pilots synchronize igniting burners of the balloons. The burner is what creates the “hot” in the air. Whether done to a musical beat or the crowd’s demand to “Glow,” the balloons appear to dance as they flicker and shine against the hues of dusk and nightfall. Held both Friday and Saturday nights around 8 p.m. (after dusk), the Glow is one of the most popular entertainment options of the Festival. Saturday and Sunday mornings are spectacular at the Festival when colorful hot air balloons dot the pastel dawn skies of Temecula. The mass balloon ascension takes place between 6 a.m. and 7 a.m. weather permitting. Guests are encouraged to arrive early as hot air balloons need the cool morning air to fly.

SoCal Photo Opps March 2011

2011-03-07T16:47:00.000-08:00

Through March - Fresno Blossom Trail - Fresno County
Actually for most of the San Joaquin Valley, this time of the year can be beautiful color from the blooming of the nut and fruit trees that are grown in that area. Great photographs can be had. Visit http://www.gofresnocounty.com/blossomtrail/blossomindex.asp for maps and more information about where to go. This may be a little late for this season but check it out if you are driving up Hwy 99 through this area.

Till April - Butterfly Exhibit -Living Desert Museum - Palm Springs
Fanciful Fliers is a 3,000 square foot walk-through exhibit filled with hundreds of fluttering butterflies and a dozen zippy hummingbirds within the setting of a tranquil garden. The thirty or so possible species of butterflies in the garden are all from North America, many from our Desert Southwest. They are as colorful as their names; Painted Lady, Tiger Swallowtail, Orange-barred Sulphur, Luna Moth and Zebra Longwing. The hummingbirds are all from the Desert Southwest and include the Anna�s, Costa�s, Black-chinned, Rufous and Broad-billed Hummingbirds. If you position yourself between the bird and the sun, you will be amazed at the iridescent colors of the male�s gorget. The garden includes over 60 species of butterfly and hummingbird friendly plants, many of which are in bloom. The exhibit is open from early October through the end of April, 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily. http://www.livingdesert.org/fanciful_flyers_butterfly_hummingbird_exhibit.html

Through April 17 Santa Anita Race Track - Arcadia
Early mornings before the races, go to Clockers Corner where you can see all the horses going to the track for practice. Get great close up shots and images of the horses runing the track. Also on weekends FREE tram tour, Board the Seabiscuit Tram at Clockers Corner and take a tour of the stable area, receiving barn and Paddock Gardens. See Seabiscuit's original stall and barn, areas used during the filming of the movie Seabiscuit, the jockeys room, silks room, saddling paddock and walking ring with its topiaries and statuary. Meet the equine star of Seabiscuit, Fighting Furrari, who played the primary role in the film. See the carriage horses in their home under the grandstand. Truly a unique experience you will not soon forget. Tours depart at 8:30 a.m. and 9:45 a.m. every Saturday and Sunday during the Santa Anita season, excluding Super Bowl Sunday and Derby Day. Season ends April 17th. http://www.santaanita.com

March 2011

March 1-May 8 - Flower Fields - Carlsbad
For many years the Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch have been a favorite location to photograph the ranunculuses each spring. The ranch offers tours as well as special events such as Kid's Day and an Arts & Craft fair. The hillside looks like a carpet of color with 50 acres of extraordinary color in bloom on a hillside overlooking the Pacific Ocean, with a special nursery, garden, and gift shop. There will be a Canon Macro Photography workshop on Sunday April 17th, 10:30am - 3:00pm. Come and celebrate the beauty of The Flower Fields® with Canon USA at a macro photography workshop. The workshop is free with paid park admission. Address is 5704 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, CA 92008 off Hwy. From Los Angeles and Orange County:
Head south on Interstate 5 to Palomar Airport Road exit. Head east (left turn) on Palomar Airport Road to Paseo Del Norte and turn left. Make an immediate right into the parking lot. Visit www.theflowerfields.com for more information.

March 5-6 - Vista Civil War Reanactment - Vista
Location: Antique Gas and Steam Museum, 2040 N Santa Fe Ave. Time: 10AM-5PM each day. Visitors can expect to see real live cannon fire, period costumes, historical figures, authentic battles, meet with the soldiers in their camps, attend demonstrations and more during the two-day festival. Battles will be held twice daily at 12:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. both days. Civil War living history tours will be held throughout the weekend and include demonstrations as well as displays. The museum will also have walking tours of their collections of antique equipment and offer visitors a selection of food and refreshment. http://www.goldcoastfestivals.com/VistaCivWar.html

March 11-13 - Orchid Show - Santa Barbara
Displays of hundreds of different orchid species and named varieties by exhibitors from North and South America, the South Pacific, Australia, and Asia. Vast selection of blooming orchid plants, corsages, art works and orchid supplies for sale. Works of art with an orchid theme for viewing and sale. Free workshops on orchid care led by orchid experts. Unique flower arrangement and corsage exhibition. Location: Earl Warren Showgrounds Exhibit Building Highway 101 and Las Positas Road
Santa Barbara, CA 93105 www.sborchidshow.com General admission $12.00, 65 and older $10.

March 12 Venice Beach - March 13 Redondo Pier - Free Photo Walks in the LA area
Welcome to the first of many CliQwalks. This is a local event at a cool location in Southern California that brings together photographers at every level to have fun, be creative and learn how to shoot better. CliQwalks are two-hour photo excursions at a local destination of interest led by a knowledgeable photographer. The leader instructs the group on what to do, what to look for and how the day will go, and is available to help participants with specific camera functions and techniques throughout the day. Afterwards, the group meets up at a location to be determined to review pictures and possibly make prints or other fun things. CliQwalk-ers are encouraged to share their two best shots to the CliQ Facebook album to be eligible for the best image of the day, selected by the CliQwalk leaders. Hurry, space is limited to 40 people per CliQwalk! Visit http://www.cliqworld.com/events/cliqwalks-aka-photo-excursions.aspx

March 12-13 - Kite Party - Huntington Beach
Professionals showcase their colorful stunt kites with their aerobatic skills--at the pier. www.kiteparty.com

March 12-13 Los Angeles County Irish Festival - Pomona Fairplex
Hours 10-6, 1101 W. McKinley. Lots of Irish events, food and drink. $18.00 adults, $16.00 Seniors. Music, traditional foof, pipers, leprechaun village, sheephearding femos and Celtic Arts. www.la-irishfair.com

March 12-13 Annual CSU Long Beach Pow Wow - Long beach
Admission is Free, Parking $4.00, event in the central quad.
dancing, Arts, Crafts and Food, starts at 11:00 each day with Gord dancing.

March 12-13 El Centro Air Show - El Centro Navel Air FacilityMany photography hobbyist and several professional photographers take advantage of the Naval Air Facility El Centro Air Show to get some spectacular photographs. Visitors to the Air Show are welcome and encouraged to take photographs of the event. Gates open at 8AM. See the website for more info and lots of pictures of past shows. http://www.elcentroairshow.com

March 12 Del Mar Kiwanis Ugly Dog Contest - Del Mar Fairgrounds.
Contest has branched out from just plain ugly dogs to 14 categories including Best Mutt and Dog Who Most Looks Like Its Owner. Paddock Green at Del Mar. www.uglydogcontest.com

March 19 People's Day at La Purisma Mission - Lompoc
It's 1822 at the mission as costumed docents and staff portray life of the mission during that era. Time: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Location: Highway 246 near Lompoc. www.lapurisimamission.org

March 26 - Swallows Day Parade - San Juan Capistrano
Annual Parade and street fair and marketplace to celebrate the return of the swallows to San Juan Capistrano Mission on St. Joseph Day. Historic Town Center Park. www.swallowsparade.org.

March 26-27 Civil War Reenactment - Anaheim.
This event is held at St. Catherin's Military School, 215 N. Harbor Blvd. It's not as big as some but a lot of the students in military uniforms can make for great pictures. You are allowed to go in the camps between battles. Watch out for some of the buildings outside the campus that might get in your image. Parking is on the streets.

March 24-27 Palm Springs Wild West Fest and Rodeo - Palm Springs
PRCA Rodeo Events, music festival, rodeo parade, food and chili cookoff. East Lawn of Palm Springs Convention Center. Rodeo 277 N. Avenida Caballeros. Rodeo Time, Friday 6PM, Sat and Sun. 2 PM. www.palmspringswestfest.com

March 26 - Riverside Airport Air Show - Riverside
9AM-4PM at the Riverside Airport, 6951 Flight Road. Now in its 18th year, the Riverside Airshow continues to be one of Riverside’s two largest family entertainment events. Free Admission. This one-day show attracts 70,000 spectators from Riverside and the Inland Empire to see the most exciting aerial performers in the airshow business today. With more than 200 acres of aircraft displays, fun for the kids, food and refreshments, helicopter displays and community group exhibits your family will be thrilled to be part of this very unique entertainment opportunity. http://www.riversideca.gov/airshow.

APRIL 2011

April 1-3 Del Mar Nationals - (car show) Del Mar Fairgrounds
More than 2,000 hot rods, customs, classics, muscle cars and trick trucks. Hours 8-5 Friday and Saturday, Sunday 8-3. http://www.delmarnats.com/dmn/index.php

April 2-3 - Crew Classic - San Diego
Regatta rowers from accross the country participate in one of the most distinquished rowing competitions in the US. Crown Point Shores, Mission Bay. www.crewclassic.org. There will be 106 races over two days. Across seven lanes, with the city skyline as a backdrop.

April 2-3 Civil War Reenactment - Prado Park - Chino. Prado Park is off Euclid, south of Chino. This is my favorite civil war reenactment. It is big, covers a lot of land and the battles are in a large field of rolling hills. Not much in the background to get in your way. Large camps with lots to shoot, lots of vendors. http://www.sccwa.com/CampoutFlyer11.pdf 2 Show Battles daily, 1 and 6 PM Saturday; 11am and 3pm Sunday.

April 2-3 and 9-10 Renaissance Faire - Escondido, CA
Location Felicita Park, 742 Clarence Lane. Hours 10-6 Daily http://www.goldcoastfestivals.com/Escondido.html

April 9-May 8 Butterflys at Wild Animal Park - Escondido
Every Spring the Wild Animal Park has a small Butterfly House, Butterfly Jungle. Get there when the park opens, by lunch the lines are a mile long. Also the butterflys are less active in the morning when the air is still cool so images are easier to get, when it gets warm, they don't sit still for long. Good selection but small.

April 9 - May 22 Weekends - Renaissance Pleasure Fair - Irwindale
This is the largest of the Renaissance Fairs, located at the Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area, 15501 E. Arrow Hwy. Hours 10 AM - 7 PM. www.renfair.com/socal $25.00 at the Gate.

April 10 Hurst Car Show - West Hills
Hurst Car Show. 3rd Annual Car Show open to all American made cars (street rods, hot rods, rat rods, muscle cars, etc.) Spectators get in FREE! Time: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Event will be held at Corporate Point at West Hills, 8521 Fallbrook, West Hills.

April 16 - Doheny Wood (car show) - Dana Point
Great chance to take pictures of classic Woodies. The 2011 show is scheduled for Saturday, April 16, 2011. The meet will be held at Doheny State Beach beginning at 8 AM and concluding at 3 PM. Doheny State Beach is located in Dana Point Harbor area at 25300 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, CA 92629. The woodie meet will be held at the south end of the park. $15.00 park entry fee, no charge for the show. http://socalwoodies.com/doheny.htm

April 16 People's Day at La Purisma Mission - Lompoc
It's 1822 at the mission as costumed docents and staff portray life of the mission during that era. Time: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Location: Highway 246 near Lompoc. www.lapurisimamission.org

April 16-17 - Battle of Costa Mesa - Costa Mesa
Fairview Park - Fairview Park’s uneven landscape serves as a perfect battleground for the men who reenact the “Battle of Costa Mesa” while dressed in “period correct” uniforms. With horses and weapons and various attires, some represented the United States and others represented various groups of the Southern states. http://www.acws.net/schedule.htm

April 16-17 California Poppy Festival - Lancaster
Hours 10am-6pm, Lots of enteratinment, foot, crafts, etc. Location: Lancaster City park 43011 N 10th Street West. If you go, be sure to go to the Poppy Perserve where the real pictures are. http://www.poppyfestival.com Admission prices are $8 for adults (13-61), $5 for seniors and children (6-12) and free for children under 5. Parking is free.

April 16-17 - Spring Busker Festival - San Diego Seaport Village
Noon to 5 PM - Free. Unsual street performers from accross the nation perform their family-friendly acts for the crowds. At Seaport Village. www.seaportvillage.com. A Busker is a street performer. Known for their unusual and comedic acts in Boston's Faneuil Hall or standing statue-like, painted in gold on San Francisco's Pier 39, these artists perform for tips in public venues across the globe. San Diego's Seaport Village hosts the only Busker Festival in Southern California. We bring professionals from across the country to perform their bizarre talents from sword swallowing to knife throwing to pogo stick tricks and juggling on unicycles. Throughout the two-day festival, some of the nation's top performers fill the bay front village drawing visitors to shop, dine and enjoy an entire day of one-of-a-kind entertainment.

April 15-17 Lakeside Rodeo and Parade - Lakeside (San Diego County)
PRCA Rodeo events, food, live music. Lakeside Rodeo Grounds, Hwy 67 and Mapleview.
Rodeo Events at 2 PM each day, gates open at 12:30. www.lakesiderodeo.com

April 16-24 - National Park Week - USA
If you are traveling this week, entrance fees into the National Parks will be free for all 392 National Parks. In addition, many national park concessioners are offering special promotions that are certain to add to your fun. http://www.nps.gov/findapark/feefreeparks.htm

Apr 17 – Orange Plaza Car Show - Orange
17th Annual Car Show in downtown Orange surrounds the circle with beautiful classic cars, More than 400 pre-1975 custom, classic, hot rod and street rods will be on display. There is no admission fee for spectators. Time: 8 am to 3 pm. Location: Chapman and N. Glassell. carshow@orangesunriserotary.org. 425 pre-1975 Street Rods, Custom and Classic vehicles will be on display. The show is estimated to bring out 15,000+ spectators to the beautiful Plaza area in the City of Orange. It is a wonderful event for the entire family to enjoy. Local restaurants and shops will welcome all in attendance. There is no admission fee for spectators.

April 17 Civil War Reenactment - Ft. Tejon.
Ft Tejon was an actual Fort during the civil war days. It is between Bakersfield and LA in the Grapevine area on Hwy. 5
Battles are at 10:30AM and 1:00 PM on the 3rd Sunday during the Spring and Summer. Like all events, get there early to get the best images. battles are on the actual old Fort Tejon grounds among some of the old buildings. Bring lunch. http://www.forttejon.org/progcw.html

April 24-May 1 Cowboy Festival - Santa Clarita
Big yearly event at the Melody Ranch Motion Picture Studio. Tours, street shows, living history performers, buffalo soldiers and lots of music and food. For more information call 661-286-4021 or www.cowboyfestival.org

April 30 - Doo Dah Parade - Pasadena
Annual Parade along Colorado Boulevard between Sierra Madre and San Gabriel Blvd. www.pasadenadoodahparade.info. Over 1,200 revelers will participate in this year’s Doo Dah, including the Electric Squirrels, Martinis in the Morning, Howdy Krishna, Stupidiotic Evolution, Mystik Krewe d’Dieux Dah, Zombies of Debt, Flying Baby Street Racing and Stroller Cross, Men of Leisure, LA Derby Dolls, Dead Robert Palmer Girls, Drunk in the Garage, and classics like the Benzedrine Monks, BBQ & Hibachi Marching Grill Team, Amnesty International, Raelian Religion, Doo Dah Random Dancers, Wicked Tinkers, Bastard Sons of Lee Marvin, Caesar’s Circus, Fabulous Sons of Ed Wood, Horses on Astroturf, The Disco Drill Team, L.A. Parrotheads, Doo Dah house band Snotty Scotty & the Hankies, AND MANY, MANY MORE!!! Starts at 11:00 AM.

MAY 2011

Through May 22 Weekends - Renaissance Pleasure Fair - Irwindale
This is the largest of the Renaissance Fairs, located at the Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area, 15501 E. Arrow Hwy. Hours 10 AM - 7 PM. www.renfair.com/socal $25.00 at the Gate.

May 7 - June 19 Weekends. Koroneburg Old World Festival - Corona
This is my favorite renaissance fair located at Riverview Park, off River Road. They have permanent buildings that make great backdrops, lots of shade, flat walking area. This is a smaller event than the one in Irwindale. I think this makes for better images. Lots of entertainment. Meet hundreds of family members living, working & playing in Southern California’s only permanent Renaissance Village! Visitors to this 1450-1600 European Village are entertained, discover fine arts and crafts, and enjoy delectable food and beverages. The setting is the fictitious estate of the Baron Heinrich Von Lauffer, located along the Rhine river (aka Santa Ana River) between Mainz and Strasbourg. Each year the Baron invites the finest minds and most talented actors to celebrate the coming of spring at his Barony of Koroneburg. The festival celebrates the inventions and changes of the renaissance period. Time: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturdays & 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sundays. Location: Crossroads Riverview Park 14600 River Rd, Corona, CA 92880. Cost: $18 Adult; $15 Child 5-11 or Senior 62+; $12 Military with valid ID; Children under 5 Free.
www.renaissanceinfo.com/riverview

May 7 - National Train Day - Los Angeles
Downtown Union Station, 800 N Alameda St. Come on down to the station and join the celebration in Los Angeles! Don't miss your chance to see model trains, train equipment displays and much more: •The Railroad Braceros Exhibit* •Train Equipment Displays* •Model Train Displays* •AmtraKids Depot Go-Green Express: Eco Exhibit*
•National Park Service Trails & Rails Exhibit* •Snapshot Station •Trains Move our Economy Exhibit* •Amtrak: Dining the Rail Way* exhibit and culinary demonstrations, featuring Chef Marcel Lagnaz •Amtrak Brand Display - Enjoy the journey®* •Amtrak California: A Winning Partnership* •Live performances. http://www.nationaltrainday.com

May 14 Moonridge Zoo Photographers Day and Photo Contest - Big Bear
This small zoo in the mountains has a photo day and contest to get pictures for their calender. Susan and I had 4 images in the 2009 Calender. View at the website. Photo Day is 10AM-4PM. Special photo ops with some of the animals. http://www.moonridgezoo.org/map/programsevents.html

May 14-15 - Annual Muckenthaler Motorcar Festival - Fullerton
The oldest and grandest car show in North Orange County hosts Hot Rods and a Concours D’Elegance with the true classics of the automotive industry spread out over eight acres of lawns. While enjoying the cars, feast on Heroes’ Deli ribs and beer and listen to live music. Make sure to visit our special gallery exhibits featuring Pinewood Design ‘11 and car themed artwork in the main gallery. Proceeds benefit our childrens art programs. There will also be a special performance on Sunday, May 15, by Janet Klein and her Parlour Boys. They wowed us last year with their bawdy songs from the 1920s. Muckenthaler Cultural Center, 1201 W. Malvern, Fullerton. 8am-2PM Sat, 10am-4pm Sunday. http://themuck.org/s/motor-car-festival/

May 15 Civil War Reenactment - Ft. Tejon.
Ft Tejon was an actual Fort during the civil war days. It is between Bakersfield and LA in the Grapevine area on Hwy. 5
Battles are at 10:30AM and 1:00 PM on the 3rd Sunday during the Spring and Summer. Like all events, get there early to get the best images. battles are on the actual old Fort Tejon grounds among some of the old buildings. Bring lunch. http://www.forttejon.org/progcw.html

May 21 - Battle of the Mariachi Festival - San Juan Capistrano
The festival includes "Battle of the Mariachis", live musical entertainment, cultural merchandise, children’s art workshops, mariachi vocals and authentic Mexican food. Mariachi performers compete for cash prizes. At the Mission
http://www.missionsjc.com/activities/signature_MariachiBattle.php

JUNE 2011

June 3-5 - Temecula Balloon and Wine Festival - Temecula
FESTIVAL LOCATION: Lake Skinner Recreation Area 37701 Warren Rd. Winchester, CA 92596
GATES OPEN: 5:00 pm FRIDAY, 6:00 am SATURDAY AND SUNDAY HOURS: Friday - 5:00 pm to 11:00 pm., Saturday - 6:00 am to 11:00 pm., Sunday - 6:00 am to 6:00 pm.
Photographers revel in the visuals from dawn mass balloon ascensions to evening balloon glows. The Festival kicks off Friday, June 4 at 5 p.m. with a country music concert on the main stage, arts and craft fair, wine tasting and the luminescent extravaganza known as the "Balloon Glow." The Glow is created when balloon pilots synchronize igniting burners of the balloons. The burner is what creates the “hot” in the air. Whether done to a musical beat or the crowd’s demand to “Glow,” the balloons appear to dance as they flicker and shine against the hues of dusk and nightfall. Held both Friday and Saturday nights around 8 p.m. (after dusk), the Glow is one of the most popular entertainment options of the Festival. Saturday and Sunday mornings are spectacular at the Festival when colorful hot air balloons dot the pastel dawn skies of Temecula. The mass balloon ascension takes place between 6 a.m. and 7 a.m. weather permitting. Guests are encouraged to arrive early as hot air balloons need the cool morning air to fly.

SoCal Photo Opps Feb 2011

2011-02-03T08:58:00.000-08:00

As we get into March, I am traveling the first week of March and will do a full update by March 7th. Look below Feb to see what is happening for March.

Here is a last minute addition.

March 12 Venice Beach - March 13 Redondo Pier - Free Photo Walks in the LA area
Welcome to the first of many CliQwalks. This is a local event at a cool location in Southern California that brings together photographers at every level to have fun, be creative and learn how to shoot better. CliQwalks are two-hour photo excursions at a local destination of interest led by a knowledgeable photographer. The leader instructs the group on what to do, what to look for and how the day will go, and is available to help participants with specific camera functions and techniques throughout the day. Afterwards, the group meets up at a location to be determined to review pictures and possibly make prints or other fun things. CliQwalk-ers are encouraged to share their two best shots to the CliQ Facebook album to be eligible for the best image of the day, selected by the CliQwalk leaders. Hurry, space is limited to 40 people per CliQwalk! Visit http://www.cliqworld.com/events/cliqwalks-aka-photo-excursions.aspx

Salton Sea can be great for birds as they migrate to warmer locations. Both Brown and White Pelicans come here. Check out the Sonny Bono National Wildlife Refuge for large flocks for birds in their ponds. Best time through January. I was just out there on Jan 30th, Lots of gulls, found some brown and white Pelicans and a few large flocks of Snow Geese. A lot of the ducks are gone. The refuge winters up to 30,000 snow, Ross's, and Canada geese, and 60,000 ducks from November through February. Marsh birds and shorebirds account for more than 6,000,000 use-days each year. Endangered species observed on the refuge include the southern bald eagle, peregrine falcon, California brown pelican, Yuma clapper rail, and desert pupfish. http://www.fws.gov/refuges/profiles/index.cfm?id=81631
Borrowing Owls can also be found in the area: http://www.allaboutbirds.org/NetCommunity/page.aspx?pid=1771
More information: http://gocalifornia.about.com/od/capalmsprings/a/salton_sea.htm

If you go to the Salton Sea, stop by Niland on Hwy 111. There is a well known site called Salvation Mountain that was built by a man to glorify God. Interesting and great pictures can be had. In Niland, go East on Main Street out of town, cross two railroad tracks and continue a couple of miles, you can't miss it.

Till April - Butterfly Exhibit -Living Desert Museum - Palm Springs
Fanciful Fliers is a 3,000 square foot walk-through exhibit filled with hundreds of fluttering butterflies and a dozen zippy hummingbirds within the setting of a tranquil garden. The thirty or so possible species of butterflies in the garden are all from North America, many from our Desert Southwest. They are as colorful as their names; Painted Lady, Tiger Swallowtail, Orange-barred Sulphur, Luna Moth and Zebra Longwing. The hummingbirds are all from the Desert Southwest and include the Anna�s, Costa�s, Black-chinned, Rufous and Broad-billed Hummingbirds. If you position yourself between the bird and the sun, you will be amazed at the iridescent colors of the male�s gorget. The garden includes over 60 species of butterfly and hummingbird friendly plants, many of which are in bloom. The exhibit is open from early October through the end of April, 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily. http://www.livingdesert.org/fanciful_flyers_butterfly_hummingbird_exhibit.html

Through Feb 26 - Ramona Grasslands Hawk Watch - Ramona
Each Saturday, bird-watchers observe and learn about wintering and resident raptors. Wildlife Reasearch Institute. (760) 789-3992. www.wildlife-research.org
Visit the Ramona Grasslands with the Wildlife Research Institute, Inc. Observe both our wintering and resident raptors. You will see raptors such as the Golden Eagle, the wintering Ferruginous Hawk, the Red-tailed Hawk, Prairie Falcon and the Red-shouldered Hawk. Nineteen (19) species of raptors alone have been recorded at this Raptor Hotspot! You will observe the wild raptors and learn the life-histories of these hawks and eagles and the significance of the Ramona Grassland ecosystem to the raptors’ survival from WRI Biologists. There will be demonstrations of hawk banding and tracking eagles with transmitters. This free, educational program is open to the public and rewarding for all ages. HAWKWATCH IS HELD EVERY SATURDAY IN JANUARY & FEBRUARY 2010 from 9 AM – 12 NOON. Program begins promptly at 9 am. Bring binoculars and cameras if you have them, our biologists will have spotting scopes for your use. We recommend you layer your clothing and wear sturdy shoes, although there is no hiking. Our facility is handicapped accessible. Only heavy rain cancels. The event is at WRI Headquarters, which is located on Highland Valley Road near the intersection of Rangeland and Highland Roads. Directions: From the south & west, Take Highway 67 to Ramona and turn north (left turn) on Highland Valley Road for 2 miles and look for our sign, Wildlife Research Institute, Inc. on the right, 18030 Highland Valley Road. From the north, take Highway 78 to Ramona Main Street (Hwy 67) turn right, proceed 3 miles to Highland Valley Road turn north (right turn) for 2 miles and look for our sign, Wildlife Research Institute, Inc., 18030 Highland Valley Road.

Through April 17 Santa Anita Race Track - Arcadia
Early mornings before the races, go to Clockers Corner where you can see all the horses going to the track for practice. Get great close up shots and images of the horses runing the track. Also on weekends FREE tram tour, Board the Seabiscuit Tram at Clockers Corner and take a tour of the stable area, receiving barn and Paddock Gardens. See Seabiscuit's original stall and barn, areas used during the filming of the movie Seabiscuit, the jockeys room, silks room, saddling paddock and walking ring with its topiaries and statuary. Meet the equine star of Seabiscuit, Fighting Furrari, who played the primary role in the film. See the carriage horses in their home under the grandstand. Truly a unique experience you will not soon forget. Tours depart at 8:30 a.m. and 9:45 a.m. every Saturday and Sunday during the Santa Anita season, excluding Super Bowl Sunday and Derby Day. Season ends April 17th. http://www.santaanita.com

February 2011

Feb 5 - Lunar New Year Festival - Alhambra
Chinese New Year street festival with entertainment, cultural events, food vendors. Valley Blvd. between Garfield Ave. and Almansor Street. www.lunarnewyearparade.com.
Hours 10AM-5:30 PM The Festival will be held in the heart of one of the largest Chinese / American commercial districts in the southland. The one-day festivities attract about 50,000 people and consist of more than 250 booths. There are many theme-oriented venues giving attendees a taste of the Chinese culture. The food court is an ideal place to sample dishes from different regions. Admission is free.

Feb 5 - Lunar New Year Festival and Parade - Los Angeles
L.A's China Town ushers in the Year of the Rabbit during this two day celebration with a colorful Golden Dragon Parade on Feb. 5th, 1PM. Chinatown at Broadway and Hill Streets. www.lagoldendragonparade.com

Feb 5 - CARe Show 2011 - San Juan Capistrano
Car Show, exhibits, live music, food and vendors. Proceeds benefit the Capistrano Animal Rescue Effort. At San Juan Capistrano Sports Park. Coming South or North on Fwy 5. Exit Ortega Hwy and go west until dead end(toward Mission SJC).Turn left (south) at the light onto Camino Capistrano Turn right (west) at the light onto Del Obispo Go west toward the ocean for about 1 mile Turn left at the light onto Del Avion www.capoanimalrescue.com 8AM-2PM

Feb 12 - Air Show Naval Air Station - Coronado/San Diego
Parade of Flight is the theme this year. Gates open at 8 AM. Location is the Naval Air Station, North Island in Coronado. Naval Air Station North Island (NASNI) welcomes all to participate in the Centennial of Naval Aviation’s kickoff event on February 12, 2011. Watch Navy, Marine and Coast Guard aircraft, from pre-WWI to the present Blue Angels F/A-18 jets, as they parade over San Diego Bay. Enjoy this spectacular aerial review from the NASNI show center, which offers the best vantage point. On the ground, guests are encouraged to view 75+ historic static aircraft, classic car show, Metal Mulisha motorcycle jump demonstrations and LIVE entertainment. Tour the Navy’s USS John C. Stennis aircraft carrier and an LHA, second only to a carrier in size and aircraft capacity. This Celebration of Naval Aviation kickoff event is open to the public — admission and parking are free.
http://mwrtoday.com/cona/information/openhouseschedule for more information.

Feb 18-20 - Long Beach Scottish Festival - Long Beach Queen Mary
Highland Dancing, bagpipe bands, athletic competitions, sheep-hearding demonstrations, concert and Scottish food. At the Queen Mary, www.queenmary.com Tickets $18.00, Senior $16.00 and includes a self tour of the ship.

Feb 18-21 - Whiskey Flats Days - Kernville
Parade, Rodeo, frog-jumping contest and food. Downtown. www.kernvillechamber.org
Whiskey Flat Days is always held on Presidents Day Weekend in February. Our 54th Annual Whiskey Flat Days will be held February 18-21, 2011, and the theme is "Goin' To The Dogs". Take a step back in time and celebrate life in the 1850's. This old-fashioned, western style festival includes a parade, gunfighters, carnival, music, vendors, and a Whiskey Flat Encampment. Enter the Epitaph Contest, Frog Jumpin' Contest, Whiskerino Contest, and more! Be here to find out who will be our next Honorary Mayor of Whiskey Flat!

Feb 19-20 - Civil War Reeanactment - Calico
This is a great event in the old Calico Ghost Town just north of Barstow off Hwy 15. Battles at 11:45 AM and 2:30 PM but for best pictures get there early when they open which I believe is 10 AM. You can walk into the camps between battles and the old town gives you different backdrops than most such reenactments. www.calicotown.com/events/civilwar

Feb 25-26-27 - Palm Springs Old World Renaissance Festival - Palm Springs
Step into a 1450-1600 European Village where villagers celebrate the arrival of Spring, The merchants setup their shops to sell their wares, the entertainers gather to perform for noble and peasant alike. More than 60 artisans present, sell and demonstrate their handcrafted wares. Pottery, jewelry, leather, clothing, chain maille, glass and many other European and English merchants offer a wide variety of authentic crafts. http://www.renaissanceinfo.com/palmsprings/index.html. Location: Francis Stevens park, 538 N Palm Canyon Dr. 11AM-9PM Fri and Sat. 11AM-6PM Sun. $12.00 Adults, $9.00 Seniors.

Feb 26-27 - Desert Classic Concours D'Elegance - La Quinta, CA
This Classic car show is in the Palm Springs area. Over 150 cars on display at the La Qunita Resort. www.desertcouncours.com

March 2011

March 5-6 - Vista Civil War Reanactment - Vista
Location: Antique Gas and Steam Museum, 2040 N Santa Fe Ave. Time: 10AM-5PM each day. Visitors can expect to see real live cannon fire, period costumes, historical figures, authentic battles, meet with the soldiers in their camps, attend demonstrations and more during the two-day festival. Battles will be held twice daily at 12:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. both days. Civil War living history tours will be held throughout the weekend and include demonstrations as well as displays. The museum will also have walking tours of their collections of antique equipment and offer visitors a selection of food and refreshment. http://www.goldcoastfestivals.com/VistaCivWar.html

March 12-13 Los Angeles County Irish Festival - Pomona Fairplex
Hours 10-6, 1101 W. McKinley. Lots of Irish events, food and drink. $18.00 adults, $16.00 Seniors

March 12-13 Annual CSU Long Beach Pow Wow - Long beach
Admission is Free, Parking $4.00, event in the central quad.
dancing, Arts, Crafts and Food, starts at 11:00 each day with Gord dancing.

March 12-13 El Centro Air Show - El Centro Navel Air FacilityMany photography hobbyist and several professional photographers take advantage of the Naval Air Facility El Centro Air Show to get some spectacular photographs. Visitors to the Air Show are welcome and encouraged to take photographs of the event. Gates open at 8AM. See the website for more info and lots of pictures of past shows. http://www.elcentroairshow.com

March 12 Del Mar Kiwanis Ugly Dog Contest - Del Mar Fairgrounds.
Contest has branched out from just plain ugly dogs to 14 categories including Best Mutt and Dog Who Most Looks Like Its Owner. Paddock Green at Del Mar. www.uglydogcontest.com

March 19 People's Day at La Purisma Mission - Lompoc
It's 1822 at the mission as costumed docents and staff portray life of the mission during that era. Time: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Location: Highway 246 near Lompoc. www.lapurisimamission.org

March 26-27 Civil War Reenactment - Anaheim.
This event is held at St. Catherin's Military School, 215 N. Harbor Blvd. It's not as big as some but a lot of the students in military uniforms can make for great pictures. You are allowed to go in the camps between battles. Watch out for some of the buildings outside the campus that might get in your image. Parking is on the streets.

March 24-27 Palm Springs Wild West Fest and Rodeo - Palm Springs
PRCA Rodeo Events, music festival, rodeo parade, food and chili cookoff. East Lawn of Palm Springs Convention Center. Rodeo 277 N. Avenida Caballeros. Rodeo Time, Friday 6PM, Sat and Sun. 2 PM. www.palmspringswestfest.com

March 26 - Riverside Airport Air Show - Riverside
9AM-4PM at the Riverside Airport, 6951 Flight Road. Now in its 18th year, the Riverside Airshow continues to be one of Riverside’s two largest family entertainment events. Free Admission. This one-day show attracts 70,000 spectators from Riverside and the Inland Empire to see the most exciting aerial performers in the airshow business today. With more than 200 acres of aircraft displays, fun for the kids, food and refreshments, helicopter displays and community group exhibits your family will be thrilled to be part of this very unique entertainment opportunity. http://www.riversideca.gov/airshow.

APRIL 2011

April 1-3 Del Mar Nationals - (car show) Del Mar Fairgrounds
More than 2,000 hot rods, customs, classics, muscle cars and trick trucks. Hours 8-5 Friday and Saturday, Sunday 8-3. http://www.delmarnats.com/dmn/index.php

April 2-3 Civil War Reenactment - Prado Park - Chino. Prado Park is off Euclid, south of Chino. This is my favorite civil war reenactment. It is big, covers a lot of land and the battles are in a large field of rolling hills. Not much in the background to get in your way. Large camps with lots to shoot, lots of vendors. http://www.sccwa.com/CampoutFlyer11.pdf 2 Show Battles daily, 1 and 6 PM Saturday; 11am and 3pm Sunday.

April 2-3 and 9-10 Renaissance Faire - Escondido, CA
Location Felicita Park, 742 Clarence Lane. Hours 10-6 Daily http://www.goldcoastfestivals.com/Escondido.html

April 9-May 8 Butterflys at Wild Animal Park - Escondido
Every Spring the Wild Animal Park has a small Butterfly House, Butterfly Jungle. Get there when the park opens, by lunch the lines are a mile long. Also the butterflys are less active in the morning when the air is still cool so images are easier to get, when it gets warm, they don't sit still for long. Good selection but small.

April 9 - May 22 Weekends - Renaissance Pleasure Fair - Irwindale
This is the largest of the Renaissance Fairs, located at the Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area, 15501 E. Arrow Hwy. Hours 10 AM - 7 PM. www.renfair.com/socal $25.00 at the Gate.

April 10 Hurst Car Show - West Hills
Hurst Car Show. 3rd Annual Car Show open to all American made cars (street rods, hot rods, rat rods, muscle cars, etc.) Spectators get in FREE! Time: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Event will be held at Corporate Point at West Hills, 8521 Fallbrook, West Hills.

April 16 - Doheny Wood (car show) - Dana Point
Great chance to take pictures of classic Woodies. The 2011 show is scheduled for Saturday, April 16, 2011. The meet will be held at Doheny State Beach beginning at 8 AM and concluding at 3 PM. Doheny State Beach is located in Dana Point Harbor area at 25300 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, CA 92629. The woodie meet will be held at the south end of the park. $15.00 park entry fee, no charge for the show. http://socalwoodies.com/doheny.htm

April 16 People's Day at La Purisma Mission - Lompoc
It's 1822 at the mission as costumed docents and staff portray life of the mission during that era. Time: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Location: Highway 246 near Lompoc. www.lapurisimamission.org

April 16-17 California Poppy Festival - Lancaster
Hours 10am-6pm, Lots of enteratinment, foot, crafts, etc. Location: Lancaster City park 43011 N 10th Street West. If you go, be sure to go to the Poppy Perserve where the real pictures are. http://www.poppyfestival.com Admission prices are $8 for adults (13-61), $5 for seniors and children (6-12) and free for children under 5. Parking is free.

April 15-17 Lakeside Rodeo and Parade - Lakeside (San Diego County)
PRCA Rodeo events, food, live music. Lakeside Rodeo Grounds, Hwy 67 and Mapleview.
Rodeo Events at 2 PM each day, gates open at 12:30. www.lakesiderodeo.com

April 16-24 - National Park Week - USA
If you are traveling this week, entrance fees into the National Parks will be free for all 392 National Parks. In addition, many national park concessioners are offering special promotions that are certain to add to your fun. http://www.nps.gov/findapark/feefreeparks.htm

Apr 17 – Orange Plaza Car Show - Orange
17th Annual Car Show in downtown Orange surrounds the circle with beautiful classic cars, More than 400 pre-1975 custom, classic, hot rod and street rods will be on display. There is no admission fee for spectators. Time: 8 am to 3 pm. Location: Chapman and N. Glassell. carshow@orangesunriserotary.org. 425 pre-1975 Street Rods, Custom and Classic vehicles will be on display. The show is estimated to bring out 15,000+ spectators to the beautiful Plaza area in the City of Orange. It is a wonderful event for the entire family to enjoy. Local restaurants and shops will welcome all in attendance. There is no admission fee for spectators.

April 17 Civil War Reenactment - Ft. Tejon.
Ft Tejon was an actual Fort during the civil war days. It is between Bakersfield and LA in the Grapevine area on Hwy. 5
Battles are at 10:30AM and 1:00 PM on the 3rd Sunday during the Spring and Summer. Like all events, get there early to get the best images. battles are on the actual old Fort Tejon grounds among some of the old buildings. Bring lunch. http://www.forttejon.org/progcw.html

April 24-May 1 Cowboy Festival - Santa Clarita
Big yearly event at the Melody Ranch Motion Picture Studio. Tours, street shows, living history performers, buffalo soldiers and lots of music and food. For more information call 661-286-4021 or www.cowboyfestival.org

MAY 2011

Through May 22 Weekends - Renaissance Pleasure Fair - Irwindale
This is the largest of the Renaissance Fairs, located at the Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area, 15501 E. Arrow Hwy. Hours 10 AM - 7 PM. www.renfair.com/socal $25.00 at the Gate.

May 7 - June 19 Weekends. Koroneburg Old World Festival - Corona
This is my favorite renaissance fair located at Riverview Park, off River Road. They have permanent buildings that make great backdrops, lots of shade, flat walking area. This is a smaller event than the one in Irwindale. I think this makes for better images. Lots of entertainment. Meet hundreds of family members living, working & playing in Southern California’s only permanent Renaissance Village! Visitors to this 1450-1600 European Village are entertained, discover fine arts and crafts, and enjoy delectable food and beverages. The setting is the fictitious estate of the Baron Heinrich Von Lauffer, located along the Rhine river (aka Santa Ana River) between Mainz and Strasbourg. Each year the Baron invites the finest minds and most talented actors to celebrate the coming of spring at his Barony of Koroneburg. The festival celebrates the inventions and changes of the renaissance period. Time: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturdays & 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sundays. Location: Crossroads Riverview Park 14600 River Rd, Corona, CA 92880. Cost: $18 Adult; $15 Child 5-11 or Senior 62+; $12 Military with valid ID; Children under 5 Free.
www.renaissanceinfo.com/riverview

May 14 Moonridge Zoo Photographers Day and Photo Contest - Big Bear
This small zoo in the mountains has a photo day and contest to get pictures for their calender. Susan and I had 4 images in the 2009 Calender. View at the website. Photo Day is 10AM-4PM. Special photo ops with some of the animals. http://www.moonridgezoo.org/map/programsevents.html

May 14-15 - Annual Muckenthaler Motorcar Festival - Fullerton
A One-of-a-kind Automotive Cultural Event, this oldest and grandest car show in North Orange County hosts Hot Rods and a Concours d'Elegance with the true classics of the automotive industry spread out over 8 acres of lawns. Muckenthaler Cultural Center, 1201 W. Malvern, Fullerton. 8am-2PM Sat, 10am-4pm Sunday. http://themuck.org/s/motor-car-festival/

May 15 Civil War Reenactment - Ft. Tejon.
Ft Tejon was an actual Fort during the civil war days. It is between Bakersfield and LA in the Grapevine area on Hwy. 5
Battles are at 10:30AM and 1:00 PM on the 3rd Sunday during the Spring and Summer. Like all events, get there early to get the best images. battles are on the actual old Fort Tejon grounds among some of the old buildings. Bring lunch. http://www.forttejon.org/progcw.html

May 21 - Battle of the Mariachi Festival - San Juan Capistrano
The festival includes "Battle of the Mariachis", live musical entertainment, cultural merchandise, children’s art workshops, mariachi vocals and authentic Mexican food. Mariachi performers compete for cash prizes. At the Mission
http://www.missionsjc.com/activities/signature_MariachiBattle.php

JUNE 2011

June 3-5 - Temecula Balloon and Wine Festival - Temecula
FESTIVAL LOCATION: Lake Skinner Recreation Area 37701 Warren Rd. Winchester, CA 92596
GATES OPEN: 5:00 pm FRIDAY, 6:00 am SATURDAY AND SUNDAY HOURS: Friday - 5:00 pm to 11:00 pm., Saturday - 6:00 am to 11:00 pm., Sunday - 6:00 am to 6:00 pm.
Photographers revel in the visuals from dawn mass balloon ascensions to evening balloon glows. The Festival kicks off Friday, June 4 at 5 p.m. with a country music concert on the main stage, arts and craft fair, wine tasting and the luminescent extravaganza known as the "Balloon Glow." The Glow is created when balloon pilots synchronize igniting burners of the balloons. The burner is what creates the “hot” in the air. Whether done to a musical beat or the crowd’s demand to “Glow,” the balloons appear to dance as they flicker and shine against the hues of dusk and nightfall. Held both Friday and Saturday nights around 8 p.m. (after dusk), the Glow is one of the most popular entertainment options of the Festival. Saturday and Sunday mornings are spectacular at the Festival when colorful hot air balloons dot the pastel dawn skies of Temecula. The mass balloon ascension takes place between 6 a.m. and 7 a.m. weather permitting. Guests are encouraged to arrive early as hot air balloons need the cool morning air to fly.

SoCal Photo Opps Jan 2011

2011-01-06T23:18:00.000-08:00

Through Jan. 30th, 2011
Richard Avedon Showing: Fashion, Stage, and Screen - Palm Springs
Black and White photographs show Avedon's use of the camera to create images that helped to define fashion, theater and the movies. Palm Springs Art Musemum, 101 N Museum Dr. www.psmuseum.org

Salton Seacan be great for birds as they migrate to warmer locations. Both Brown and White Pelicans come here. Check out the Sonny Bono National Wildlife Refuge for large flocks for birds in their ponds. Best time is now through January. The refuge winters up to 30,000 snow, Ross's, and Canada geese, and 60,000 ducks from November through February. Marsh birds and shorebirds account for more than 6,000,000 use-days each year. Endangered species observed on the refuge include the southern bald eagle, peregrine falcon, California brown pelican, Yuma clapper rail, and desert pupfish. http://www.fws.gov/refuges/profiles/index.cfm?id=81631
Borrowing Owls can also be found in the area: http://www.allaboutbirds.org/NetCommunity/page.aspx?pid=1771
More information: http://gocalifornia.about.com/od/capalmsprings/a/salton_sea.htm

Till April - Butterfly Exhibit -Living Desert Museum - Palm Springs
Fanciful Fliers is a 3,000 square foot walk-through exhibit filled with hundreds of fluttering butterflies and a dozen zippy hummingbirds within the setting of a tranquil garden. The thirty or so possible species of butterflies in the garden are all from North America, many from our Desert Southwest. They are as colorful as their names; Painted Lady, Tiger Swallowtail, Orange-barred Sulphur, Luna Moth and Zebra Longwing. The hummingbirds are all from the Desert Southwest and include the Anna�s, Costa�s, Black-chinned, Rufous and Broad-billed Hummingbirds. If you position yourself between the bird and the sun, you will be amazed at the iridescent colors of the male�s gorget. The garden includes over 60 species of butterfly and hummingbird friendly plants, many of which are in bloom. The exhibit is open from early October through the end of April, 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily. http://www.livingdesert.org/fanciful_flyers_butterfly_hummingbird_exhibit.html

January 2011

Jan 1-Feb 26 - Ramona Grasslands Hawk Watch - Ramona
Each Saturday, bird-watchers observe and learn about wintering and resident raptors. Wildlife Reasearch Institute. (760) 789-3992. www.wildlife-research.org
Visit the Ramona Grasslands with the Wildlife Research Institute, Inc. Observe both our wintering and resident raptors. You will see raptors such as the Golden Eagle, the wintering Ferruginous Hawk, the Red-tailed Hawk, Prairie Falcon and the Red-shouldered Hawk. Nineteen (19) species of raptors alone have been recorded at this Raptor Hotspot! You will observe the wild raptors and learn the life-histories of these hawks and eagles and the significance of the Ramona Grassland ecosystem to the raptors’ survival from WRI Biologists. There will be demonstrations of hawk banding and tracking eagles with transmitters. This free, educational program is open to the public and rewarding for all ages. HAWKWATCH IS HELD EVERY SATURDAY IN JANUARY & FEBRUARY 2010 from 9 AM – 12 NOON. Program begins promptly at 9 am. Bring binoculars and cameras if you have them, our biologists will have spotting scopes for your use. We recommend you layer your clothing and wear sturdy shoes, although there is no hiking. Our facility is handicapped accessible. Only heavy rain cancels. The event is at WRI Headquarters, which is located on Highland Valley Road near the intersection of Rangeland and Highland Roads. Directions: From the south & west, Take Highway 67 to Ramona and turn north (left turn) on Highland Valley Road for 2 miles and look for our sign, Wildlife Research Institute, Inc. on the right, 18030 Highland Valley Road. From the north, take Highway 78 to Ramona Main Street (Hwy 67) turn right, proceed 3 miles to Highland Valley Road turn north (right turn) for 2 miles and look for our sign, Wildlife Research Institute, Inc., 18030 Highland Valley Road.

Jan 8-9 - Cable Airport Air Show - Upland
Aerobatics, parachute teams, car show, aircraft displays and food. Cable Airport is located at the North West corner of 13th and Benson in the very west end of San Bernardino County in the city of Upland. www.cableairport.com. Gates open at 8 AM, Free Parking, $7.00 admission.

Jan 14-17 - Morro Bay Winter Bird Festival - Morro Bay
Photograph and learn about the area's native and transitory bird species. Experts lead more than 110 field trips during the festival including boat trips and kayak trips. www.morrobaybirdfestival.org. (866) 464-5105

Jan 15-16 - Asian American Expo - Pomona
At the Fairplex. Lunar New Year celebration with more than 800 echibitors, live music, folk art and Asian food. www.asianamericanexpo.com. Hours 10AM-7PM in Halls 4,5,6,7 & 8. Admission $9.00, Seniors 7.00, $1.00 off coupon on website. They will have a photo contest.

Jan 29-30 - Southern Calif Camellia Society Show/Sale - La Canada/Flintridge
Annual flower show and self-guided walks through Descanso Gardens' 20 acre Camellia Forest. www.socalcamellias.org 1418 Descanso Dr.

Jan 29-30 - Yuma Quartermaster Depot Civil War Reeanactment - Yuma
There were no Civil War battles waged around Yuma – but the Quartermaster Depot was an active Union Army post during those years and a strategic point of defense because of the importance of the river crossing and trails to California. Re-enactment groups from around the West will converge for an old-school encampment and mock battles on the grassy grounds of the park. More info, www.yumaheritage.com, 928-373-5198

February 2011

Feb 5 - Lunar New Year Festival - Alhambra
Chinese New Year street festival with entertainment, cultural events, food vendors. Valley Blvd. between Garfield Ave. and Almansor Street. www.lunarnewyearparade.com.
Hours 10AM-5:30 PM The Festival will be held in the heart of one of the largest Chinese / American commercial districts in the southland. The one-day festivities attract about 50,000 people and consist of more than 250 booths. There are many theme-oriented venues giving attendees a taste of the Chinese culture. The food court is an ideal place to sample dishes from different regions. Admission is free.

Feb 5 - CARe Show 2011 - San Juan Capistrano
Car Show, exhibits, live music, food and vendors. Proceeds benefit the Capistrano Animal Rescue Effort. At San Juan Capistrano Sports Park. Coming South or North on Fwy 5. Exit Ortega Hwy and go west until dead end(toward Mission SJC).Turn left (south) at the light onto Camino Capistrano Turn right (west) at the light onto Del Obispo Go west toward the ocean for about 1 mile Turn left at the light onto Del Avion www.capoanimalrescue.com 8AM-2PM

Feb 12-13 - Lunar New Year Festival and Parade - Los Angeles
L.A's China Town ushers in the Year of the Rabbit during this two day celebration with a colorful Golden Dragon Parade on Feb. 12th, 1PM. Chinatown at Broadway and Hill Streets. www.lagoldendragonparade.com

Feb 18-20 - Long Beach Scottish Festival - Long Beach Queen Mary
Highland Dancing, bagpipe bands, athletic competitions, sheep-hearding demonstrations, concert and Scottish food. At the Queen Mary, www.queenmary.com Tickets $18.00, Senior $16.00 and includes a self tour of the ship.

Feb 18-21 - Whiskey Flats Days - Kernville
Parade, Rodeo, frog-jumping contest and food. Downtown. www.kernvillechamber.org
Whiskey Flat Days is always held on Presidents Day Weekend in February. Our 54th Annual Whiskey Flat Days will be held February 18-21, 2011, and the theme is "Goin' To The Dogs". Take a step back in time and celebrate life in the 1850's. This old-fashioned, western style festival includes a parade, gunfighters, carnival, music, vendors, and a Whiskey Flat Encampment. Enter the Epitaph Contest, Frog Jumpin' Contest, Whiskerino Contest, and more! Be here to find out who will be our next Honorary Mayor of Whiskey Flat!

Feb 19-20 - Civil War Reeanactment - Calico
This is a great event in the old Calico Ghost Town just north of Barstow off Hwy 15. Battles at 11:45 AM and 2:30 PM but for best pictures get there early when they open which I believe is 10 AM. You can walk into the camps between battles and the old town gives you different backdrops than most such reenactments. www.calicotown.com/events/civilwar

Feb 26-27 - Desert Classic Concours D'Elegance - La Quinta, CA
This Classic car show is in the Palm Springs area. Over 150 cars on display at the La Qunita Resort. www.desertcouncours.com

March 2011

March 5-6 - Vista Civil War Reanactment - Vista
Location: Antique Gas and Steam Museum, 2040 N Santa Fe Ave. Time: 10AM-5PM each day. Visitors can expect to see real live cannon fire, period costumes, historical figures, authentic battles, meet with the soldiers in their camps, attend demonstrations and more during the two-day festival. Battles will be held twice daily at 12:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. both days. Civil War living history tours will be held throughout the weekend and include demonstrations as well as displays. The museum will also have walking tours of their collections of antique equipment and offer visitors a selection of food and refreshment. http://www.goldcoastfestivals.com/VistaCivWar.html

SoCal Photo Opps Dec 2010

2010-12-01T14:47:00.000-08:00

Through Jan. 30th, 2011
Richard Avedon Showing: Fashion, Stage, and Screen - Palm Springs
Black and White photographs show Avedon's use of the camera to create images that helped to define fashion, theater and the movies. Palm Springs Art Musemum, 101 N Museum Dr. www.psmuseum.org

Salton Seacan be great for birds as they migrate to warmer locations. Both Brown and White Pelicans come here. Check out the Sonny Bono National Wildlife Refuge for large flocks for birds in their ponds. Best time is now through January. The refuge winters up to 30,000 snow, Ross's, and Canada geese, and 60,000 ducks from November through February. Marsh birds and shorebirds account for more than 6,000,000 use-days each year. Endangered species observed on the refuge include the southern bald eagle, peregrine falcon, California brown pelican, Yuma clapper rail, and desert pupfish. http://www.fws.gov/refuges/profiles/index.cfm?id=81631
Borrowing Owls can also be found in the area: http://www.allaboutbirds.org/NetCommunity/page.aspx?pid=1771
More information: http://gocalifornia.about.com/od/capalmsprings/a/salton_sea.htm

December 2010

Dec 4 - Pearl Harbor Day Troop Train Excursion - Los Angeles
Reservations required. Journey back in time to the 1940's aboard vintage streamliner train cars with reenactors in authenic military uniforms and vintage civilian attire. Union Station, Los Angeles to San Diego and return. www.overlandtrail.com $99.95 Roundtrip. San Diego to LA possible. (714)546-6923.

Dec 4 - Planes of Fame Japanese Zero - Chino
The Planes of Fame Air Museum at Chino Airport will present its monthly "Living History Flying Day" event on Saturday, December 4, from 10 AM to 12 noon, featuring its Japanese Zero WW II fighter plane. The presentation will culminate around noon with a demonstration flight of the only original Japanese Zero Fighter in the world. Comfortable seating is provided in their main hanger for the discussion. The Zero will be parked right outside, readily accessible for up close and personal inspection and photography before it takes to the air. General Admission is $11.00, address 7000 Merrill Ave., #17 Chino, CA 91710. Thanks to Bob Willard for info.

Dec 16-19 - Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade - Newport Beach
FREE to the public. The boat parade will light up the harbor for five consecutive nights from December 16-December 20 2009. The parade starts at Collins Island at 6:30 p.m. and will last approximately two and a half hours over 250 ships participate in the parade along with hundreds of water front estates. Providing the backdrop for the parade is the Ring of Lights waterfront home and business decorating competition. FREE for spectators, entry fee for participating boats. Over 1 million people view the parade each year. For those of you that would like to be in parade Newport Landing offers 2 general admission cruises nightly every night of the parade that are a part of the actual parade. Location for cruises: Newport Landing Sportfishing 309 Palm - Suite A Newport Beach Ca.

Dec 30-Port of San Diego Big Balloon Parade and Festival - San Diego
Large balloon parade, includes giant character balloons, marching bands, drill teams, floats, Wiener Dog Race, 5K run. Downtown, www.holidaybowl.com. Part of the Holiday Bowl Celebration.

January 2011

Jan 1-Feb 26 - Ramona Grasslands Hawk Watch - Ramona
Each Saturday, bird-watchers observe and learn about wintering and resident raptors. Wildlife Reasearch Institute. (760) 789-3992. www.wildlife-research.org
Visit the Ramona Grasslands with the Wildlife Research Institute, Inc. Observe both our wintering and resident raptors. You will see raptors such as the Golden Eagle, the wintering Ferruginous Hawk, the Red-tailed Hawk, Prairie Falcon and the Red-shouldered Hawk. Nineteen (19) species of raptors alone have been recorded at this Raptor Hotspot! You will observe the wild raptors and learn the life-histories of these hawks and eagles and the significance of the Ramona Grassland ecosystem to the raptors’ survival from WRI Biologists. There will be demonstrations of hawk banding and tracking eagles with transmitters. This free, educational program is open to the public and rewarding for all ages. HAWKWATCH IS HELD EVERY SATURDAY IN JANUARY & FEBRUARY 2010 from 9 AM – 12 NOON. Program begins promptly at 9 am. Bring binoculars and cameras if you have them, our biologists will have spotting scopes for your use. We recommend you layer your clothing and wear sturdy shoes, although there is no hiking. Our facility is handicapped accessible. Only heavy rain cancels. The event is at WRI Headquarters, which is located on Highland Valley Road near the intersection of Rangeland and Highland Roads. Directions: From the south & west, Take Highway 67 to Ramona and turn north (left turn) on Highland Valley Road for 2 miles and look for our sign, Wildlife Research Institute, Inc. on the right, 18030 Highland Valley Road. From the north, take Highway 78 to Ramona Main Street (Hwy 67) turn right, proceed 3 miles to Highland Valley Road turn north (right turn) for 2 miles and look for our sign, Wildlife Research Institute, Inc., 18030 Highland Valley Road.

Jan 8-9 - Cable Airport Air Show - Upland
Aerobatics, parachute teams, car show, aircraft displays and food. Cable Airport is located at the North West corner of 13th and Benson in the very west end of San Bernardino County in the city of Upland. www.cableairport.com. Gates open at 8 AM, Free Parking, $7.00 admission.

Jan 14-17 - Morro Bay Winter Bird Festival - Morro Bay
Photograph and learn about the area's native and transitory bird species. Experts lead more than 110 field trips during the festival including boat trips and kayak trips. www.morrobaybirdfestival.org. (866) 464-5105

Jan 15-16 - Asian American Expo - Pomona
At the Fairplex. Lunar New Year celebration with more than 800 echibitors, live music, folk art and Asian food. www.asianamericanexpo.com. Hours 10AM-7PM in Halls 4,5,6,7 & 8. Admission $9.00, Seniors 7.00, $1.00 off coupon on website. They will have a photo contest.

Jan 29-30 - Southern Calif Camellia Society Show/Sale - La Canada/Flintridge
Annual flower show and self-guided walks through Descanso Gardens' 20 acre Camellia Forest. www.socalcamellias.org 1418 Descanso Dr.

Jan 29-30 - Yuma Quartermaster Depot Civil War Reeanactment - Yuma
There were no Civil War battles waged around Yuma – but the Quartermaster Depot was an active Union Army post during those years and a strategic point of defense because of the importance of the river crossing and trails to California. Re-enactment groups from around the West will converge for an old-school encampment and mock battles on the grassy grounds of the park. More info, www.yumaheritage.com, 928-373-5198

February 2011

Feb 5 - Lunar New Year Festival - Alhambra
Chinese New Year street festival with entertainment, cultural events, food vendors. Valley Blvd. between Garfield Ave. and Almansor Street. www.lunarnewyearparade.com.
Hours 10AM-5:30 PM The Festival will be held in the heart of one of the largest Chinese / American commercial districts in the southland. The one-day festivities attract about 50,000 people and consist of more than 250 booths. There are many theme-oriented venues giving attendees a taste of the Chinese culture. The food court is an ideal place to sample dishes from different regions. Admission is free.

Feb 5 - CARe Show 2011 - San Juan Capistrano
Car Show, exhibits, live music, food and vendors. Proceeds benefit the Capistrano Animal Rescue Effort. At San Juan Capistrano Sports Park. Coming South or North on Fwy 5. Exit Ortega Hwy and go west until dead end(toward Mission SJC).Turn left (south) at the light onto Camino Capistrano Turn right (west) at the light onto Del Obispo Go west toward the ocean for about 1 mile Turn left at the light onto Del Avion www.capoanimalrescue.com 8AM-2PM

Feb 12-13 - Lunar New Year Festival and Parade - Los Angeles
L.A's China Town ushers in the Year of the Rabbit during this two day celebration with a colorful Golden Dragon Parade on Feb. 12th, 1PM. Chinatown at Broadway and Hill Streets. www.lagoldendragonparade.com

Feb 18-20 - Long Beach Scottish Festival - Long Beach Queen Mary
Highland Dancing, bagpipe bands, athletic competitions, sheep-hearding demonstrations, concert and Scottish food. At the Queen Mary, www.queenmary.com Tickets $18.00, Senior $16.00 and includes a self tour of the ship.

Feb 18-21 - Whiskey Flats Days - Kernville
Parade, Rodeo, frog-jumping contest and food. Downtown. www.kernvillechamber.org
Whiskey Flat Days is always held on Presidents Day Weekend in February. Our 54th Annual Whiskey Flat Days will be held February 18-21, 2011, and the theme is "Goin' To The Dogs". Take a step back in time and celebrate life in the 1850's. This old-fashioned, western style festival includes a parade, gunfighters, carnival, music, vendors, and a Whiskey Flat Encampment. Enter the Epitaph Contest, Frog Jumpin' Contest, Whiskerino Contest, and more! Be here to find out who will be our next Honorary Mayor of Whiskey Flat!

Feb 19-20 - Civil War Reeanactment - Calico
This is a great event in the old Calico Ghost Town just north of Barstow off Hwy 15. Battles at 11:45 AM and 2:30 PM but for best pictures get there early when they open which I believe is 10 AM. You can walk into the camps between battles and the old town gives you different backdrops than most such reenactments. www.calicotown.com/events/civilwar

Feb 26-27 - Desert Classic Concours D'Elegance - La Quinta, CA
This Classic car show is in the Palm Springs area. Over 150 cars on display at the La Qunita Resort. www.desertcouncours.com

SoCal Photo Opps Nov 2010

2010-11-04T07:54:00.000-07:00

SoCal Photo Opps Oct 2010

2010-09-26T12:29:00.000-07:00

Through Jan. 30th, 2011
Richard Avedon Showing: Fashion, Stage, and Screen - Palm Springs
Black and White photographs show Avedon's use of the camera to create images that helped to define fashion, theater and the movies. Palm Springs Art Musemum, 101 N Museum Dr. www.psmuseum.org

OCTOBER 2010

Through Nov 7 - Spider Pavilion - Los Angeles
Hundreds of free roaming spiders. Enclosed habitat, sounds similar to a butterfly exhibit. Natural History Museum, 900 Exposition Blvd. in LA. www.nhm.com Our one-of-a-kind Spider Pavilion is a beautifully landscaped area on the Museum’s South Lawn where spiders freely spin their spectacular webs for all to see. Tickets are sold in half-hour intervals throughout the day at a rate of $3 for adults, $2 for students and seniors, and $1 for children. Museum Members receive free admission. Tickets can be purchased at any Museum admissions desk or at the Spider Pavilion itself. The Pavilion is open every day of the week from 10 am to 5 pm, with the last tickets sold at 4:30 pm.

Oct 1-3 - Miramar Air Show - San Diego
Aerial performances by military and civilian pilots, Blue Angels demonstration, parachute teams. Marine Corps Airstation Miramar. www.miramarairshow.com Three Full Public Day Shows Friday, Saturday and SundayOct. 1, 2 & 3, 2010 | 9:00 am - 4:00pm Twilight Show (Saturday)Oct. 2, 2010 | 5:30 - 9:00 pm. You must have a valid drivers license, current registration and proof of insurance to bring your vehicle onto a military base. If driving a rental car, valid drivers license, proof of insurance & car rental agreement will be required. FREE GENERAL ADMISSION may use the North, East/Main or West Gates; drivers will be directed to general parking areas.

Oct 2 - Green Port Fest - Long Beach
This sounds like an interesting photo oppertunity, The Port of Long Beach has an annual open house which includes behind the scenes boat tours of the working harbor, train tours of the cargo shipping terminals. See towering gantry cranes, barking sea lions and massive cargo ships on one of our 45-minute boat tours. Boats depart every 15 minutes from the docks next to the Queen Mary. Shuttles will take passengers from the Port's Administration Building, near the festival, to the docks.
There will be a limited amount of free parking at the Long Beach Convention Center, so please carpool. If you are coming from the 710 South Freeway, be sure to use the "Downtown" exit. Enter the convention center parking lot at Shoreline Drive and South Linden Avenue and look for our Green Port Fest shuttles. www.polb.com/portfest

Oct 3 - Japan America Kite Festival - Seal Beach
Hundreds of kites of all colors and sizes. Kite making, workshops, games and more. Japanese kite demos. North Side of the Seal beach Pier.

Oct 3 - Newport Beach Sandcastle Contest - Corona del Mar
Elaborate sand sculptures on Big Corona Beach at Corona del Mar State Beach. 11:00 AM.

Oct 2-3 San Dimas Rodeo - San Dimas
Will be held Saturday October 2nd and Sunday October 3rd, 2010. The gates will open at 11:00. AM Events Begin At 1:00 PM at the Tex Shoemaker Rodeo Arena at Horsethief Canyon Park. http://sandimasrodeo.com

Oct 3 - Veterans Car Show - Loma Linda
Car Show with pancake breakfast, model car contest, 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. AT Jerry L. Pettis Memorial VA Medical Center 11201 Benton in Loma Linda. www.veterancarshow.com

Oct 8-10 - Seaside Highland Games - Ventura
Scottish entertainment, pipe and drum bands, dancing, Highland games, sheep hearding dog demos and reenactments. Seaside park, Ventura County Fairgrounds. 9am-5pm www.seaside-games.com

Oct 23 - Cruisin Yucaipa Charity Car Show - Yucaipa
8 am - 2 pm, Yucaipa Regional Park, 33900 Oak Glen Rd. Yucaipa, CA. Classics, Hot Rods, Corvettes, Mods, Sleds, Camaros and more. http://www.cruisinyucaipacarshow.com

Oct 24 -- Basset Hound Picnic - Arcadia
Lots of Basset Hounds, howl-off, costumes and contests. Arcadia Park 10AM -3:30 PM Santa Anita Ave. and Huntington Drive. www.bhcsc.com.

Oct 24 - Wings Wheels Rotors Expo - Los Alamitos
9 AM - 4 PM. WWRE 2010 is an open house and family event sponsored by the Los Alamitos Area Chamber of Commerce and the California National Guards Joint Forces Training Base (JFTB) All the activities will take place on the flightline on Los Alamitos Army Airfield. On display will be military aircraft,helicopters ,many cars,warbirds along with public safety,first responder and military equipment .Aircraft flyovers are planned including aircraft static displays.
Wings Wheels & Rotors will have various civilian and public safety helicopters with fire,police and military rotorcraft including some of the media aircraft seen daily on the air around SoCal. Along with the airplanes and warbirds are helicopter flights in civilian "choppers" for a small fee and free flights in general aviation airplanes by the Experimental Aircraft Association Young Eagles for youth between the ages of 8 and 17 years who are interested in flying and aviation. The largest event will be a huge car show including custom cars,new autos,motorcycles,roadsters, antique vehicles and hot rods. Awards to be presented for best cars. There will be many events for the family at WWRE 2010 along with a Kids Korner. Additionally,there will be food,including breakfast,music,vendors,displays,demonstrations,flybys and other activities on Sunday,24 October.

Oct 23-24 - Pyrate Days - Yucca valley
Pirate themed festival with live music and entertainment. Pirate School, battles and costume contest. Located at the Tri-Valley Little League Field. Yuccal valley is on the way to Joshua Tree. take the 10 Fwy and go north on Hwy. 62. www.yuccavalley.org.

Oct 23-24 - Western Heritage Weekend - Moorpark
Our 7th Western Heritage Weekend will take place October 23 & 24 from *10:00am - 3:00pm. Festival hours are 9:00am - 6:00pm. Admission is $10.00 and children under 2 are free. Underwood Family Farms welcomes back Spencer/Lorraine Productions' fast paced variety show, Western Music, Magic & Mirth. The entire weekend will be filled with stunt ropers, western music, cowboy poetry and even an old-time medicine show. Don your cowboy hats and come on down to the farm for a taste of the Wild West! 3370 Sunset Valley Road Moorpark, CA http://www.underwoodfamilyfarms.com/

Oct 23-24 - Gunfight Behind The Jersey Lilly - Corona/Norco
Put on by The Cowboys, www.thecowboys.org. They are the oldest and largest Cowboy Action Shooting Club in the world. They meet monthly for matches, wear authenic western gear. This event is free and has a lot to offer for the photographer. Last year we went and got a lot of cowboy pics, Indian dancers and we were able to take pictures of the shooting competition. Bring some safety glasses if you want to take pictures of the shooters. Mike Raahauge Shooting Enterprises
14995 River Rd., Corona, CA 92880

Oct 30-31 - Escondido Renaissance Fair - Escondido
Felicita County Park, 742 Clarence Lane, Faire hours: 10:00 A.M. to DUSK both days.
Elizabethan reeanactors re-create a 16th century English village. www.goldcoastfestivals.com.

November 2010

Nov 6 - Route 66 Museum Classic Car Show - Victorville
Pre 1975 cars and trucks, music, food, museum tours and Route 66 displays. California Route 66 Museum, 16825 D St. http://www.califrt66museum.org/events.html

Nov 6 - Veterans Day Celebration - Riverside
Parade, Bands, concerts, war birds and military vechicles. Airplane rides, vintage cars and hot rods. Historic Flabob Airport, 4130 Mennes Ave. Flabob Airport is the seventh oldest surviving airport in California. Founded in 1925 as Riverside's first civil airport. www.flabob.org.

Nov 6-7 - Pow Wow - Santa Fe Springs
Location at Heritage Park, 121000 Mora Ave, Santa Fe Springs. The two-day event, which will feature American Indian dancing, arts, crafts and food begins at 10 AM each day and runs until 10 PM on Saturday and 6 PM on Sunday. In addition to contests and inter-tribal dancing, there will be Gourd dancing and the Grand Entry at 1:30 Saturday and Sunday. Bring the family and friends for this BIG event.
Native foods such as Navajo tacos, fry bread and Indian burgers will be on sale at the event, and American Indian vendors will be selling both traditional and contemporary American Indian art. Plenty of free parking in the surrounding Industrial Park lots.

Nov 6-7 - Escondido Renaissance Fair - Escondido
Felicita County Park, 742 Clarence Lane, Faire hours: 10:00 A.M. to DUSK both days.
Elizabethan reeanactors re-create a 16th century English village. www.goldcoastfestivals.com.

Nov 7 - Best of France and Italy Car Show - Van Nuys
Show of cars from rough restoration projects to serious concours offerings. Food, swap meet and vendors. 9am-4pm, Woodley Park, 6350 Woodley Ave, www.franceanditaly.com

Nov 13-14 - Cattle Call Rodeo - Brawley
Baisc Rodeo with all the usual events. Shows Nov. 13th at 2 and 7, Nov. 14th at 1 PM. Tickets $14 Reserved seating, $7.00 General Admission. Cattle Call Arena. www.cattlecallrodeo.com.

December 2010

Dec 4 - Pearl Harbor Day Troop Train Excursion - Los Angeles
Reservations required. Journey back in time to the 1940's aboard vintage streamliner train cars with reenactors in authenic military uniforms and vintage civilian attire. Union Station, Los Angeles to San Diego and return. www.overlandtrail.com $99.95 Roundtrip. San Diego to LA possible. (714)546-6923.

SoCal Photo Opps Sept 2010

2010-08-29T18:34:00.000-07:00

SEPTEMBER 2010

Sept. 2-6 - Festival of Sail - San Diego
The Festival of Sail is an annual event with something for everyone. The event is held over Labor Day weekend each year and starts with a bang! Cannon fire will salute the entrance of the tall ships from all over the world as they parade around San Diego Bay passing by Harbor Island, Shelter Island, Seaport Village and the Coronado Bridge ending up at the Maritime Museum's docks.

The five day event includes live entertainment from a variety of genres including; Contemporary Rock, Sea Chanteys, Mariachi's, Steel Drum Bands, local community groups, etc. We will have a petting zoo where kids can get up close and pet a variety of animals. Cruises on San Diego Bay, cannon battles, sailing on racing yachts, over 150 arts and craft vendors, multitude of food options, interaction with pirates, and more...Cannon Battle Sails: Sail a Tall Ship into battle! Fight the Enemy from a Tall Ship available on Friday, Saturday, Sunday & Monday.

Historic Bay Cruises on the 1914 Pilot Boat: Enjoy a 30 minute guided tour of San Diego Bay on our historic Pilot Boat. Tickets are $5.00 per person (in addition to the passport purchase). America's Cup Boat Sails: Cruise the bay on America's Cup boats! Stars & Stripes and Abracadabra will be heading out for a sail to view the tall ship's cannon battles and Festival of Sail from an on-the-water perspective.

Sept. 4 - October 3 Los Angeles County Fair - Pomona
Runs through Oct. 3. Includes carnival, entertainment, fairway, exhibitions, livestock, and horse racing. They have a large photography exhibit. http://www.lacountyfair.com/2010/

Sept. 4-5 Civil War Re-Enactment - Huntington Beach
Where: Huntington Central Park 18000 Goldenwest St. Visit and tour large scale Confederate and Union encampments as more than 200 re-enactors stage famous battles of the Civil War. The two-day event includes live canon and weapon demonstrations, actors in full costume, food vendors and a Civil War-era band. On Saturday the first battle will be at 1:30 p.m. and the second at 4 p.m. Sunday features a church service at 9 a.m. then a battle at 11 a.m. and another one at 2 p.m.

Sept 12 - Surf Dog Surf-a-Thon - Del Mar
Humans and dogs catch the waves to raise money for the Helen Woodward Animal Center. Canine custume contests. North Beach http://surfdog.kintera.org.

Sept 11-12 - Creston Classic Rodeo - Creston-San Luis Obispo County Roping, steer riding, horseback riding, barn dancing, and cowboy church. Sat events start at 1PM, Sun Mutton Bustin at 11AM, events start at 1PM. http://www.crestonclassicrodeo.org

Sept 10-12 - Tall Ships Festival - Dana Point
This year, the Ocean Institute is celebrating its 26th year hosting the Toshiba Tall Ships Festival! Come and explore the majesty and wonder of tall ships through the smells, sounds and sights of real working tall ships. Interactive living-history encampments including blacksmiths, scrimshaw artists, and the infamous Port Royal Privateers are sure to entertain and amaze guests of all ages and are not to be missed. www.tallshipsfestival.com.

Sept. 9-11 - Festival of Roses - Wasco
Rose show, rose field tours, parade, potted roses for sale, arts and crafts, food and entertainment. http://www.ci.wasco.ca.us/public_documents/wascoca_chamber/festival

Sept 12 - Belmont Shore Car Show - Long Beach
Pre 1975 hot rods and custom cars, food. The show is held on 2nd Street in Belmont Shore which is part of Long Beach. A large number of blocks of 2nd Street are closed off for the day and the show takes place on the city street.The show draws about 700 vehicles and boasts a huge number of street vendors selling automotive related goods as well as many other things. Because the show draws a huge spectator crowd, it has a terrific amount of excitement and energy. This one is not to be missed whether you have a car or just come to look at cars. The level of quality of the cars at this show is second to none. If you want to see a huge number of the finest rods, muscle cars, and customs to be found in Southern California, you don't want to miss this show. www.baycityrodders.com.

Sept 11-12 - Stagecoach Days - Banning
Parade, carnival, ranch rodeo, hisgtorical encampments, Wild west gunfighter competition, blacksmithing contest, food and entertainment. A C Dysart Park, exit I-10 at 22nd St, turn South to end of road and follow the signs. www.banningstagecoachdays.com $4.00

Sept. 11-13 - Tall Ships Festival - Dana Point Harbor
The largest annual gathering of tallships on the West Coast, this festival features a spectacular array of family-fun activities including live music, art shows and a variety of tasty food. Interactive living-history encampments including blacksmiths, scrimshaw artists, and the infamous Port Royal Privateers are sure to entertain and amaze guests of all ages and are not to be missed. Additionally, you can explore the historic tallships and listen to the crew share tails of adventure and life at sea. The festival begins on Friday evening as the tall ships parade into Dana Point Harbor. On the weekend, visitors can enjoy maritime displays and demonstrations, music concerts, Polynesian dancing, pirates, and dramatic sunset cannon battles. Visitors can also explore the historic tall ships and listen to the crew share tales of adventure and life at sea. Inside the Ocean Institute guests can experience live parrot shows, pirate games, music, wood carving, ship models and special presentations. Join us for a weekend of fun and adventure as we celebrate the area's rich maritime history. Participating tall ships typically include the brig Pilgrim, Spirit of Dana Point, Californian, Curlew, Exy Johnson, Irving Johnson, and the American Pride. Visiting ships are subject to change. For complete information about the festival visit www.tallshipsfestival.com.

Sept 16-19 - Route 66 Rendezvous - San Bernardino
Crusing car show of pre-1975 classics, customs and hot rod contest, poker run, 5K run on Sunday and Firefighter competition, vendors and lots of entertainment. Downtown. From I-10 head North, exit 2nd Street and tuen right at the light. www.route-66.org

Sept 18 - Route 66 Parade and Car Show - Duarte
The Duarte Route 66 Parade & Classic Car Show features a variety of beautifully restored vintage cars, marching bands, equestrian units, costume characters and much more! It’s a parade filled with excitement and fun for all ages.Duarte, things to do in duarte, City of Duarte, Duarte parade. Even when the parade ends, Duarte’s Salute to Route 66 continues with an old-fashioned American hometown picnic and vintage car show at nearby Royal Oaks Park. 10AM. http://duarteroute66parade.com

Sept 18 - Old West Days - Randsburg
Each September the Rand Desert Museum hosts the RAND DISTRICT OLD WEST DAYS, which is a street fair held on the main street of Randsburg, It features Western and Bluegrass bands playing live, vendors of all sorts of items and other forms of entertainment including reenactments in this living ghost town. http://www.randdesertmuseum.com/

Sept 18-19 - Port of LA Lobster Festival - San Pedro
Lobster meals, dancing, parades, street performers, pirate camp, tall ships and live music. Ports O'Call, 6th and Harbor, Opens 11 AM each day. www.lobsterfest.com.

Sept 18-19 - Wavecrest Woodie Meet (car show) - Encinitas
More than 300 woodie Cars, live music and entertainment. This is the largest of the Woodie Shows. Events at several locations including Moonlight Beach. www.sandiegowoodies.com.

Sept 18-19 - Goldcoast Pirate Faire - Lake Casitas, Ojai
Pirate encampments, performers, reeactments, treasure hunts, food and grog. Lake Casitas recreation Area. www.goldcoastfestivals.com.

Sept 18-31 - Pumpkin Festival - Temecula
Commercial Pumpkin Patch. Pig races, corn maze, pony rides, train rides, petting farm, John Deere Tractor collection, and the star--the pumpkin. Peltzer Farm, 39925 Calle Contento. Open 9-8 www.peltzerfarms.com.

Sept 19 - English Motors Car Show - Fallbrook
More than 300 British cars are shown on a 25 acre horse ranch. Benefit for Meals-on-Wheels. Fairbrook Farms, 4949 South Mission Road.
http://www.englishmotorsatfairbrook.org/

Sept 19 - Brazilian Street Carnival - Long beach
Noon-8PM. The big event with a Rio-Style Parade, a Trio Electrico Parade, Brazilian food, goods, and bands and performances all day in the new downtown Long Beach Amphitheater, 210 The Promenade North. www.carnaval.org

Sept 19 - All Chevy Car Show - Van Nuys
Date: September 19, 2010 Hours: Show | 8am-3pm Set-up | 6am
Location: Woodley Park, 6350 Woodley Ave. Van Nuys, CA 91406
The Los Angeles All Chevy Car Show is being hosted by Corsa West LA (www.corsawest.com) and will benefit the Boys and Girls Club. We have created an all-ages family show that has a little something for everyone. If you’re a true car enthusiast, you know there’s no such thing as too many shows. We wanted something to celebrate the history and heritage of Chevrolet through the years, so this show made sense. Created by gear-heads for gear-heads, the All Chevy Car Show is a celebration of the American automobile.

Sept 19 - Mustangs At The Queen Mary - Long Beach
14th Annual Mustang & Ford Car Show takes place SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 2010, at the historic Queen Mary in Long Beach. Join us for California's LARGEST Mustang Event with 375+ Mustangs & Fords! With so many vehicles, we have over 100 Show & Award Classes and over 200 Trophies Will Be Given Out! Queen Mary Events Park – 1126 Queens Hwy, Long Beach, CA 90802 Event Hours: 10am – 4pm FREE to spectators!! http://www.bcmc.net/

Sept 19 - Civil War Reenactment - Ft Tejon - Lebec
Union and Confederate army encampments and battles at this historic Fort and State Park. Sunday battles are at 10:30 AM and 1:00 PM (Approximately 30-45 minutes each.) Guided tours of the camps are offered between the battles. Arrive at least 30 minutes early to secure a good spot in the spectator area. Bring a blanket or chair if you do not wish to stand. www.forttejon.org.

Sept 19 - Palos Verdes Concours d'Elegance - Palos Verdes
Join us for the 18th Annual Palos Verdes Concours d’Elegance September 18 and 19, 2010. This year’s theme is German Fest with Mercedes-Benz as the marque. The ever-popular Tour d’Epicure Road Rallye starts the weekend off on Saturday afternoon, followed by the Grand Marshal’s Reception. Sunday’s Concours d’Elegance returns again to the spectacular Trump National Golf Club on the cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean. www.pvconcours.com.

Sept 24-25 - Poway Rodeo - Poway
PRCA events, Bareback Riding, Tie Down roping, Bronc Riding, Bull Riding and more. Sat gates open at 11:30, rodeo at 1PM, Sunday gates open at 6 PM, rodeo starts at 7:30 PM. Poway Valley Riders Association Grounds, 14336 Tierra Bonita Rd.
http://www.powayrodeo.com.

Sept 25-26 - Viking Festival - Vista
Helmeted reenactors show off their fighting skills on the battlefield at this celebration of Norse and Scandinavian culture. Ax Throw, log toss, sword demonstrations, fish fling, food and live music. Norway Hall, 2006 East Vista Way Vista, CA. Sat 11-8 and Sun 11-6. www.vikingfestivalvista.com.

Sept 25-26 - ArtSplash - Carlsbad
Chalk art paintings, entertainment, strolling performers, food and local artists. 10am-6pm. Armada Drive above the flower fields. www.carlsbadartsplash.org.

OCTOBER 2010

Oct 2-3 San Dimas Rodeo - San Dimas
Will be held Saturday October 2nd and Sunday October 3rd, 2010. The gates will open at 11:00. AM Events Begin At 1:00 PM at the Tex Shoemaker Rodeo Arena at Horsethief Canyon Park. http://sandimasrodeo.com

Oct 23-24 - Gunfight Behind The Jersey Lilly - Corona/Norco
Put on by The Cowboys, www.thecowboys.org. They are the oldest and largest Cowboy Action Shooting Club in the world. They meet monthly for matches, wear authenic western gear. This event is free and has a lot to offer for the photographer. Last year we went and got a lot of cowboy pics, Indian dancers and we were able to take pictures of the shooting competition. Bring some safety glasses if you want to take pictures of the shooters. Mike Raahauge Shooting Enterprises
14995 River Rd., Corona, CA 92880

SoCal Photo Opps Aug 2010

2010-07-26T18:02:00.000-07:00

AUGUST 2010 last update 8-27-10

July 31-Aug. 8 - US Open of Surfing - Huntington Beach
Welcome you sand lovers! US Open of Surfing & Beach Games isn't just surfing. It's music, sand, limbo, spray on tattoos, freebies, cute guy & girl poster signings and a whole lotta xtreme sports. http://www.usopenofsurfing.com

Aug 1 - Lowrider Nationals - Bakersfield
Urban car culture and lifestyle show with more than 500 custom-designed cars. Hop contest, car audio sound off and live music. Kern County Fairgrounds. www.lowridernationals.com

Aug 5-8 - Norco Valley Fair - Norco
This looks like a fun fair with a lot of photographic possibilities. Located at the Polly's Pie Fairgrounds, Raahauges Sport Club, 14995 River Road which is at Hellman and River Road. Livestock Shows, Xtreme Rodeo Games Sat 8-10PM, Sunday 2-4PM. Motorcross, 3 shows daily Sat and Sun. Civil War Re-Enactment shows 2 shows daily, Fri, Sat and Sunday. Horses and Hotrods Carshow Sat. 10-3PM, Bull Riding Competition Sat 8PM and Sun 2 PM. Junior Bull Riding, Sat 5:30-7PM and Sun 11:30-1PM. Tug O War Competition on Sat at 3PM. Pet Parade Sat 7PM Plus all the usual Fair type stuff. Daily Admission $8.00.

Aug 6-8 - US Open Sand Castle Competition - Imperial Beach
Creative teams of amateurs and professionals sculpt sand masterpieces for cash prizes. Also street fair and live entertainment. Competition starts 9 AM on Aug. 8th and jusging begins at 2PM. Viewing till 4 PM www.usopensandcastle.com

Aug 7-8 - Naval Base Ventura Air Show - Pt. Mugu near Oxnard
This is the 10th Anniversary of Naval Base Ventura County. The show will feature the U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron the “Thunderbirds”. The Thunderbirds operate the Lockheed Martin F-16C Fighting Falcon fighter/strike aircraft.
The air show will also feature aviation simulators, current and vintage aircraft on static display, food and beverage booths and souvenirs. Also, Seabees and their construction equipment will be on display to show the role the Seabee play supporting operations through out the world, including Iraq and Afghanistan.
Gates opens at 8:00am and show begins at 10:00am. Admission and parking is FREE. Brings your hat, chair, water and photo equipment and enjoy the show. There will be long lines of cars at the gate entrance, so for best photo location, I recommend you arrive no later than 7:15am. Directions: North on Ventura Freeway (Hiway 101) to Camarillo, Exit on Los Posas Road turn left and follow the signs to Point Mugu.

Aug 14 - Uptown Whittier Car Show - Whittier
The Whittier Uptown Association will present a Car Show Extravaganza. More Cars, More Vendors and More Fun! The 10th Annual Uptown Whittier Car Show will exhibit over 600 cars from muscle cars, hot rods, customs, antiques, and restored classics. Trophies will be awarded to each 1st place category. The Car Show will be held Saturday, August 14th, 2010, in Historic Uptown Whittier, along Greenleaf Ave. and Philadelphia St., beginning from 9:00am to 7:00pm. Bring the whole family for a full day of fun in the picturesque Uptown Whittier. www.whittieruptown.com

Aug 15 - Civil War Re-Enactment Invitational - Ft. Tejon
Sunday battles are at 10:30 AM and 1:00 PM (Approximately 30-45 minutes each.) Guided tours of the camps are offered between the battles. (There are no public demonstrations on Saturdays.) Arrive at least 30 minutes early to secure a good spot in the spectator area. Bring a blanket or chair if you do not wish to stand. The area is in the sun, so sunscreen and/or hats are recommended. Amateur photography of all kinds is welcomed.

Aug 19-22 - Big Bear Cowboy Gathering - Big Bear Lake
Wild West weekend of cowboy music, poetry, reenactors, storytellers, merechants and barbecue. Big Bear Lake Performing Arts Center (909)866-4970. www.bigbearcowboygathering.net

Aug 20-22 - Pt. Magu Surfing Contest at Pelican Point - Pt. Magu
NBVC will host the 2010 NBVC Point Mugu Surf Contest Presented by Quiksilver. This is an exciting opportunity for the surfing community to access one of the best waves Southern California has to offer, and for NBVC to showcase our award winning stewardship of the environmentally sensitive beach and wetlands area inside our gates. This is a community engagement event for NBVC. Proceeds from this event will benefit the MWR Single Sailor/Liberty program. They will have a photo contest.
http://www.santabarbarasurfer.com/index.php/news/article/announcement_re_point_mugu_surf_contest/

Aug 20-21 - Woodies At The Beach - Santa Barbara
The President of the Santa Barbara Woodie Club, Bill Sampson, invites you to join us at the 10th Annual - Woodies at the Beach! It’s a great show located at one of the most beautiful venues on the California coast, with Woodies displayed on a large grassy knoll overlooking the blue Pacific Ocean. The views just don’t get any better than this! Special parking area on the lawn for all other cars of interest, no moderns please. The 2010 show activities will be held August 20-21. Friday night, August 20, will start out with no-host Welcome Party at Cody’s, located at 4898 Hollister Ave., Santa Barbara, phone 805-683-5141

Aug 20-29 - Antelope Valley Fair - Lancaster
Usual fair activity but they have a very nice judged photographic print display that is worth seeing. Antelope Vally Fairgrounds.

Aug 21 - People's Day at La Purisma Mission - Lompoc
It's 1822 at the mission as costumed docents and staff portray life of the mission during that era. Time: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Location: Highway 246 near Lompoc. lapurisimamission.org

Aug 21 - Mountain Classic Car Show - Wrightwood
Pre-1973 American hot-rods, customs, classics, muscle cars and trucks. Live music, food, poker walk and lowrider trike drag race. Wrightwood Village, www.wrightwoodchamber.org.

Aug 21-22 - Wings Over Camarillo - Camarillo
A great airshow with many events and static displays. The morning of the event gives attendees the chance to see a variety of experimental aircraft in flight. Starting at 9:00 AM both Saturday and Sunday, you will enjoy a range of ultralight and homebuilt aircraft. An announcer will provide you details and exciting commentary on each aircraft. The Goodyear Blimp will fly over the area both mornings. This year we have more aircraft than ever taking to the skies during the air portions of the event, both Saturday and Sunday. Many of these planes are privately owned and maintained. Many are flown by the owner pilot. This is a rare chance to see these beautifully maintained aircraft flying. Airplane and helicopter rides, food, entertainment. 9AM-5PM Camarillo Airport, 555 Airport Way. $10 admission.
www.Wingsovercamarillo.com

Aug 28 - People's Day at La Purisma Mission - Lompoc
It's 1822 at the mission as costumed docents and staff portray life of the mission during that era. Time: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Location: Highway 246 near Lompoc. lapurisimamission.org

Aug 28-29 Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo - San Juan Capistrano
The rodeo will take place at the Oaks Blenheim Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park, located at the intersection of Ortega Highway and Antonio Parkway/La Pata on the western border of the Rancho Mission Viejo in South Orange County.
The Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo is good old entertainment for the entire family, not to mention the richest 2-day rodeo in the nation with a purse totaling over $200,000. The top 30 rodeo contestants in saddle bronc and bareback riding, tie-down roping, steer wrestling, bull riding and team roping will come to San Juan Capistrano for this chance of a lifetime. Gates open at 2PM Sat, rodeo starts at 4PM and gates open at 11:30 AM on Sunday, rodeo starts at 1:30 PM. While I have not photographed at this rodeo, I have heard it is a good one. http://www.rmvrodeo.com

SEPTEMBER 2010

Sept. 2-6 - Festival of Sail - San Diego
The Festival of Sail is an annual event with something for everyone. The event is held over Labor Day weekend each year and starts with a bang! Cannon fire will salute the entrance of the tall ships from all over the world as they parade around San Diego Bay passing by Harbor Island, Shelter Island, Seaport Village and the Coronado Bridge ending up at the Maritime Museum's docks.

The five day event includes live entertainment from a variety of genres including; Contemporary Rock, Sea Chanteys, Mariachi's, Steel Drum Bands, local community groups, etc. We will have a petting zoo where kids can get up close and pet a variety of animals. Cruises on San Diego Bay, cannon battles, sailing on racing yachts, over 150 arts and craft vendors, multitude of food options, interaction with pirates, and more...Cannon Battle Sails: Sail a Tall Ship into battle! Fight the Enemy from a Tall Ship available on Friday, Saturday, Sunday & Monday.

Historic Bay Cruises on the 1914 Pilot Boat: Enjoy a 30 minute guided tour of San Diego Bay on our historic Pilot Boat. Tickets are $5.00 per person (in addition to the passport purchase). America's Cup Boat Sails: Cruise the bay on America's Cup boats! Stars & Stripes and Abracadabra will be heading out for a sail to view the tall ship's cannon battles and Festival of Sail from an on-the-water perspective.

Sept. 4 - October 3 Los Angeles County Fair - Pomona
Runs through Oct. 3. Includes carnival, entertainment, fairway, exhibitions, livestock, and horse racing. They have a large photography exhibit. http://www.lacountyfair.com/2010/

Sept. 4-5 Civil War Re-Enactment - Huntington Beach
Where: Huntington Central Park 18000 Goldenwest St. Visit and tour large scale Confederate and Union encampments as more than 200 re-enactors stage famous battles of the Civil War. The two-day event includes live canon and weapon demonstrations, actors in full costume, food vendors and a Civil War-era band. On Saturday the first battle will be at 1:30 p.m. and the second at 4 p.m. Sunday features a church service at 9 a.m. then a battle at 11 a.m. and another one at 2 p.m.

Sept 12 - Surf Dog Surf-a-Thon - Del Mar
Humans and dogs catch the waves to raise money for the Helen Woodward Animal Center. Canine custume contests. North Beach http://surfdog.kintera.org.

Sept 11-12 - Creston Classic Rodeo - Creston-San Luis Obispo County Roping, steer riding, horseback riding, barn dancing, and cowboy church. Sat events start at 1PM, Sun Mutton Bustin at 11AM, events start at 1PM. http://www.crestonclassicrodeo.org

Sept 10-12 - Tall Ships Festival - Dana Point
This year, the Ocean Institute is celebrating its 26th year hosting the Toshiba Tall Ships Festival! Come and explore the majesty and wonder of tall ships through the smells, sounds and sights of real working tall ships. Interactive living-history encampments including blacksmiths, scrimshaw artists, and the infamous Port Royal Privateers are sure to entertain and amaze guests of all ages and are not to be missed. www.tallshipsfestival.com.

Sept. 9-11 - Festival of Roses - Wasco
Rose show, rose field tours, parade, potted roses for sale, arts and crafts, food and entertainment. http://www.ci.wasco.ca.us/public_documents/wascoca_chamber/festival

Sept 12 - Belmont Shore Car Show - Long Beach
Pre 1975 hot rods and custom cars, food. The show is held on 2nd Street in Belmont Shore which is part of Long Beach. A large number of blocks of 2nd Street are closed off for the day and the show takes place on the city street.The show draws about 700 vehicles and boasts a huge number of street vendors selling automotive related goods as well as many other things. Because the show draws a huge spectator crowd, it has a terrific amount of excitement and energy. This one is not to be missed whether you have a car or just come to look at cars. The level of quality of the cars at this show is second to none. If you want to see a huge number of the finest rods, muscle cars, and customs to be found in Southern California, you don't want to miss this show. www.baycityrodders.com.

Sept 11-12 - Stagecoach Days - Banning
Parade, carnival, ranch rodeo, hisgtorical encampments, Wild west gunfighter competition, blacksmithing contest, food and entertainment. A C Dysart Park, exit I-10 at 22nd St, turn South to end of road and follow the signs. www.banningstagecoachdays.com $4.00

Sept. 11-13 - Tall Ships Festival - Dana Point Harbor
The largest annual gathering of tallships on the West Coast, this festival features a spectacular array of family-fun activities including live music, art shows and a variety of tasty food. Interactive living-history encampments including blacksmiths, scrimshaw artists, and the infamous Port Royal Privateers are sure to entertain and amaze guests of all ages and are not to be missed. Additionally, you can explore the historic tallships and listen to the crew share tails of adventure and life at sea. The festival begins on Friday evening as the tall ships parade into Dana Point Harbor. On the weekend, visitors can enjoy maritime displays and demonstrations, music concerts, Polynesian dancing, pirates, and dramatic sunset cannon battles. Visitors can also explore the historic tall ships and listen to the crew share tales of adventure and life at sea. Inside the Ocean Institute guests can experience live parrot shows, pirate games, music, wood carving, ship models and special presentations. Join us for a weekend of fun and adventure as we celebrate the area's rich maritime history. Participating tall ships typically include the brig Pilgrim, Spirit of Dana Point, Californian, Curlew, Exy Johnson, Irving Johnson, and the American Pride. Visiting ships are subject to change. For complete information about the festival visit www.tallshipsfestival.com.

Sept 16-19 - Route 66 Rendezvous - San Bernardino
Crusing car show of pre-1975 classics, customs and hot rod contest, poker run, 5K run on Sunday and Firefighter competition, vendors and lots of entertainment. Downtown. From I-10 head North, exit 2nd Street and tuen right at the light. www.route-66.org

Sept 18 - Route 66 Parade and Car Show - Duarte
The Duarte Route 66 Parade & Classic Car Show features a variety of beautifully restored vintage cars, marching bands, equestrian units, costume characters and much more! It’s a parade filled with excitement and fun for all ages.Duarte, things to do in duarte, City of Duarte, Duarte parade. Even when the parade ends, Duarte’s Salute to Route 66 continues with an old-fashioned American hometown picnic and vintage car show at nearby Royal Oaks Park. 10AM. http://duarteroute66parade.com

Sept 18 - Old West Days - Randsburg
Each September the Rand Desert Museum hosts the RAND DISTRICT OLD WEST DAYS, which is a street fair held on the main street of Randsburg, It features Western and Bluegrass bands playing live, vendors of all sorts of items and other forms of entertainment including reenactments in this living ghost town. http://www.randdesertmuseum.com/

Sept 18-19 - Port of LA Lobster Festival - San Pedro
Lobster meals, dancing, parades, street performers, pirate camp, tall ships and live music. Ports O'Call, 6th and Harbor, Opens 11 AM each day. www.lobsterfest.com.

Sept 18-19 - Wavecrest Woodie Meet (car show) - Encinitas
More than 300 woodie Cars, live music and entertainment. This is the largest of the Woodie Shows. Events at several locations including Moonlight Beach. www.sandiegowoodies.com.

Sept 18-19 - Goldcoast Pirate Faire - Lake Casitas, Ojai
Pirate encampments, performers, reeactments, treasure hunts, food and grog. Lake Casitas recreation Area. www.goldcoastfestivals.com.

Sept 18-31 - Pumpkin Festival - Temecula
Commercial Pumpkin Patch. Pig races, corn maze, pony rides, train rides, petting farm, John Deere Tractor collection, and the star--the pumpkin. Peltzer Farm, 39925 Calle Contento. Open 9-8 www.peltzerfarms.com.

Sept 19 - English Motors Car Show - Fallbrook
More than 300 British cars are shown on a 25 acre horse ranch. Benefit for Meals-on-Wheels. Fairbrook Farms, 4949 South Mission Road.
http://www.englishmotorsatfairbrook.org/

Sept 19 - Brazilian Street Carnival - Long beach
Noon-8PM. The big event with a Rio-Style Parade, a Trio Electrico Parade, Brazilian food, goods, and bands and performances all day in the new downtown Long Beach Amphitheater, 210 The Promenade North. www.carnaval.org

Sept 19 - All Chevy Car Show - Van Nuys
Date: September 19, 2010 Hours: Show | 8am-3pm Set-up | 6am
Location: Woodley Park, 6350 Woodley Ave. Van Nuys, CA 91406
The Los Angeles All Chevy Car Show is being hosted by Corsa West LA (www.corsawest.com) and will benefit the Boys and Girls Club. We have created an all-ages family show that has a little something for everyone. If you’re a true car enthusiast, you know there’s no such thing as too many shows. We wanted something to celebrate the history and heritage of Chevrolet through the years, so this show made sense. Created by gear-heads for gear-heads, the All Chevy Car Show is a celebration of the American automobile.

Sept 19 - Mustangs At The Queen Mary - Long Beach
14th Annual Mustang & Ford Car Show takes place SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 2010, at the historic Queen Mary in Long Beach. Join us for California's LARGEST Mustang Event with 375+ Mustangs & Fords! With so many vehicles, we have over 100 Show & Award Classes and over 200 Trophies Will Be Given Out! Queen Mary Events Park – 1126 Queens Hwy, Long Beach, CA 90802 Event Hours: 10am – 4pm FREE to spectators!! http://www.bcmc.net/

Sept 19 - Civil War Reenactment - Ft Tejon - Lebec
Union and Confederate army encampments and battles at this historic Fort and State Park. Sunday battles are at 10:30 AM and 1:00 PM (Approximately 30-45 minutes each.) Guided tours of the camps are offered between the battles. Arrive at least 30 minutes early to secure a good spot in the spectator area. Bring a blanket or chair if you do not wish to stand. www.forttejon.org.

Sept 19 - Palos Verdes Concours d'Elegance - Palos Verdes
Join us for the 18th Annual Palos Verdes Concours d’Elegance September 18 and 19, 2010. This year’s theme is German Fest with Mercedes-Benz as the marque. The ever-popular Tour d’Epicure Road Rallye starts the weekend off on Saturday afternoon, followed by the Grand Marshal’s Reception. Sunday’s Concours d’Elegance returns again to the spectacular Trump National Golf Club on the cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean. www.pvconcours.com.

Sept 24-25 - Poway Rodeo - Poway
PRCA events, Bareback Riding, Tie Down roping, Bronc Riding, Bull Riding and more. Sat gates open at 11:30, rodeo at 1PM, Sunday gates open at 6 PM, rodeo starts at 7:30 PM. Poway Valley Riders Association Grounds, 14336 Tierra Bonita Rd.
http://www.powayrodeo.com.

Sept 25-26 - Viking Festival - Vista
Helmeted reenactors show off their fighting skills on the battlefield at this celebration of Norse and Scandinavian culture. Ax Throw, log toss, sword demonstrations, fish fling, food and live music. Norway Hall, 2006 East Vista Way Vista, CA. Sat 11-8 and Sun 11-6. www.vikingfestivalvista.com.

Sept 25-26 - ArtSplash - Carlsbad
Chalk art paintings, entertainment, strolling performers, food and local artists. 10am-6pm. Armada Drive above the flower fields. www.carlsbadartsplash.org.

OCTOBER 2010

Oct 2-3 San Dimas Rodeo - San Dimas
Will be held Saturday October 2nd and Sunday October 3rd, 2010. The gates will open at 11:00. AM Events Begin At 1:00 PM at the Tex Shoemaker Rodeo Arena at Horsethief Canyon Park. http://sandimasrodeo.com

Oct 23-24 - Gunfight Behind The Jersey Lilly - Corona/Norco
Put on by The Cowboys, www.thecowboys.org. They are the oldest and largest Cowboy Action Shooting Club in the world. They meet monthly for matches, wear authenic western gear. This event is free and has a lot to offer for the photographer. Last year we went and got a lot of cowboy pics, Indian dancers and we were able to take pictures of the shooting competition. Bring some safety glasses if you want to take pictures of the shooters. Mike Raahauge Shooting Enterprises
14995 River Rd., Corona, CA 92880

SoCal Photo Opps July 2010

2010-06-29T10:25:00.000-07:00

JULY 2010

July 3-4 - Mountaineer Days - Wrightwood
Live music, bed races; a parade, nail driving contest, cowboy quickdraw, watermelon and pie eating contests, good panning, and food. Wrightwood Village. www.wrightwoodchanber.org.

July 4 - Mr and Mrs Muscle Beach Competition - Venice
Bodybuilding competition at the city's iconic Muscle Beach, Venic Beach Recreation Center. www.musclebeachvenice.com

July 4 - Obon Festival - Pacoima
Japanese cultural festival with traditional dances, taiko drumming, tea ceremonies, food, arts and crafts. Japanese American Community Center, 12953 Branford Street
Pacoima, CA., 91311 www.sfvhbt.org

July 10 Lotus Festival - Los Angeles
2-day Asian/Pacific Islander event which provides entertainment, foods, arts, crafts, children's entertainment, dragon boat racing, health & community information. 75,000 attendees expected. At Echo Park Lake, 751 Echo Park Ave. Starts at 10AM. If you are not into the festival, this is the time of the Lotus blooms that make great pictures. You might want to go here on another day just to photograph the blooms.

July 10 - Celebration on the Colorado Street Bridge - Pasadena
This bridge is photogenic anytime but may have some special possibilities at this evening celebration with live music, dancing, antique cars, and food. www.pasadenaheritage.org.

July 10-11 - Big Bear Lake Paddlefest - Fawnskin
Beginner through advanced clinics and races for kayaks and canoes, boat demos and an outdoor sports exhibit. North Shore, Big Bear Lake. www.bigbearpaddlefest.com

July 10-11 Old Fort MacArthur Days - San Pedro
Location fort MacArthur Museum, Angel State Park, 3601 South Gaffey. Big Event with reeanactments from Civil War to WWII. Hours 10am-4pm. http://fortmacarthur.tripod.com/ or www.ftmac.org

July 11 - Concours d'Elegance - Dana Point
Weekend car show overlooking Dana Point Harbor and the Pacific. Lantern Bay Park.
www.porsche356club.org. 25111 Park Lantern Rd

July 11 - Surfin Paws Dog Jam - Huntington Beach
Competition for surfboard riding pups. Benefit for the Orange County Society for the Prevention of Cruelity to Animals. Huntington Beach Dog Beach at Goldenwest Street and PCH. www.surfinpaws.com

July 17-18 Ocean Festival - San Clemente
Full weekend of family events Classic Woody Car Show, Surf and Ocean Art Show, Children's activities. Annual Beach Party and Concert included. At the San Clemente Pier. Watch for Woodies parading down from Ave. Del Mar and onto the pier both mornings! There will be a different set of 15 each day in a wide variety of colors and styles to see! Surfing Contest and Great rubber Duck Race. http://www.oceanfestival.org

July 24, Aug 21-22 and Sept 25-26 Cruise Aboard the Lane Victory, WWII Ship - San Pedro
The Lane Victory is a WWII Merchant Marine Ship built in 1945 and docked at San Pedro. Normally a museum, it sails out to Catalina Island and back several times a year. This is the first cruise of the year. I did this cruise last year and had a blast. Lunch is served along with drinks. WWII entertainment and reeanactors on board, German spy is captured and the ship will be attacked by WWII German aircraft on the way back and saved by the US planes. Lots to photograph and a fun day. Located at Pier 94 in San Pedro. LA Fire Boats greet the ship on the way into port--blowing water. http://www.lanevictory.org

July 30-31 - Citrus Classic Balloon Festival - Santa Paula
Let your summer take flight. . . with hot air balloons flying over scenic citrus orchards and rolling hills towards views of the Pacific Ocean, the Third Annual Citrus Classic Balloon Festival is THE best backdrop for THE balloon event closest to Greater Los Angeles. Mingle with balloon pilots, enjoy outdoor dining, wine and beer garden, browse arts and craft vendors, get active with the Kids Activity Area, relax with live music. . . It's the perfect day trip, family summer weekend or romantic getaway - conveniently just 1.5 hours from Los Angeles! Opens Friday evening with entertainment and the glow of hot air ballons. Saturday arrive early for the sunrise ascension of more than two dozen balloons. Tethered balloon rides, music and vendors. Will also have a vintage car and motorcycle show. After sunset see the Glow of the Blue Moon. Blue lights illuminate balloons, glowing blue beach balls and a blues band. Located at the Soccer fields at 18249 E. Telegraph Road, Santa Paula. $10.00 at the gate, 5PM-10PM Friday,
5AM-10PM Saturday. www.citrusclassicballoons.com

July 30-Aug 1 - International Surf Festival - Beach Cities - Southbay
Lifegard competitions, aquatic sports competitions, volleyball tournaments and two mile beach run. Manhattan, Hermosa and Redondo Beaches. www.surffestival.org

July 31- Aug 1 Long Beach Civil War Reeanactment - Long Beach
Location: El Dorado park, 7550 E Spring St., Hours 10am-5pm. $10.00 adults/$8.00 Seniors. http://www.beachcalifornia.com/california/civil-war-reenact-events.html

July 31 - Aug 1 - Long Beach Dragon Boat Festival - Long Beach
Dragon Boat competitions, acrobats, food and art exhibits. Traditional dance, mucic. Marine Stadium. www.lbdragonboat.com

July 31 - Hurley US Open of Surfing - Huntington Beach
8am-5pm After a record-breaking 2009 event, the Hurley US Open of Surfing is back in Huntington Beach. In addition to great surfing, you’ll find the Hurley Walk the Walk Fashion Show, a 14-acre Festival Village that allows attendees to sample products and services from the action sports industry, a BMX and skateboard competition and more. Admission to all events is free, so don’t miss out on this exciting, action-packed beach festival!

AUGUST 2010

July 31-Aug. 8 - US Open of Surfing - Huntington Beach
Welcome you sand lovers! US Open of Surfing & Beach Games isn't just surfing. It's music, sand, limbo, spray on tattoos, freebies, cute guy & girl poster signings and a whole lotta xtreme sports. http://www.usopenofsurfing.com

Aug 1 - Lowrider Nationals - Bakersfield
Urban car culture and lifestyle show with more than 500 custom-designed cars. Hop contest, car audio sound off and live music. Kern County Fairgrounds. www.lowridernationals.com

Aug 6-8 - US Open Sand Castle Competition - Imperial Beach
Creative teams of amateurs and professionals sculpt sand masterpieces for cash prizes. Also street fair and live entertainment. Competition starts 9 AM on Aug. 8th and jusging begins at 2PM. Viewing till 4 PM www.usopensandcastle.com

Aug 7-8 - Naval Base Ventura Air Show - Pt. Mugu near Oxnard
This is the 10th Anniversary of Naval Base Ventura County. The show will feature the U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron the “Thunderbirds”. The Thunderbirds operate the Lockheed Martin F-16C Fighting Falcon fighter/strike aircraft.
The air show will also feature aviation simulators, current and vintage aircraft on static display, food and beverage booths and souvenirs. Also, Seabees and their construction equipment will be on display to show the role the Seabee play supporting operations through out the world, including Iraq and Afghanistan.
Gates opens at 8:00am and show begins at 10:00am. Admission and parking is FREE. Brings your hat, chair, water and photo equipment and enjoy the show. There will be long lines of cars at the gate entrance, so for best photo location, I recommend you arrive no later than 7:15am. Directions: North on Ventura Freeway (Hiway 101) to Camarillo, Exit on Los Posas Road turn left and follow the signs to Point Mugu.

Aug 19-22 - Big Bear Cowboy Gathering - Big Bear Lake
Wild West weekend of cowboy music, poetry, reenactors, storytellers, merechants and barbecue. Big Bear Lake Performing Arts Center (909)866-4970. www.bigbearcowboygathering.net

Aug 20-29 - Antelope Valley Fair - Lancaster
Usual fair activity but they have a very nice judged photographic print display that is worth seeing. Antelope Vally Fairgrounds.

Aug 21 - Mountain Classic Car Show - Wrightwood
Pre-1973 American hot-rods, customs, classics, muscle cars and trucks. Live music, food, poker walk and lowrider trike drag race. Wrightwood Village, www.wrightwoodchamber.org.

Aug 28-29 Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo - San Juan Capistrano
The rodeo will take place at the Oaks Blenheim Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park, located at the intersection of Ortega Highway and Antonio Parkway/La Pata on the western border of the Rancho Mission Viejo in South Orange County.
The Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo is good old entertainment for the entire family, not to mention the richest 2-day rodeo in the nation with a purse totaling over $200,000. The top 30 rodeo contestants in saddle bronc and bareback riding, tie-down roping, steer wrestling, bull riding and team roping will come to San Juan Capistrano for this chance of a lifetime. Gates open at 2PM Sat, rodeo starts at 4PM and gates open at 11:30 AM on Sunday, rodeo starts at 1:30 PM. While I have not photographed at this rodeo, I have heard it is a good one. http://www.rmvrodeo.com

SEPTEMBER 2010

Sept. 4-5 Civil War Re-Enactment - Huntington Beach
Where: Huntington Central Park 18000 Goldenwest St. Visit and tour large scale Confederate and Union encampments as more than 200 re-enactors stage famous battles of the Civil War. The two-day event includes live canon and weapon demonstrations, actors in full costume, food vendors and a Civil War-era band. On Saturday the first battle will be at 1:30 p.m. and the second at 4 p.m. Sunday features a church service at 9 a.m. then a battle at 11 a.m. and another one at 2 p.m.

Sept. 11-13 - Tall Ships Festival - Dana Point Harbor
The largest annual gathering of tallships on the West Coast, this festival features a spectacular array of family-fun activities including live music, art shows and a variety of tasty food. Interactive living-history encampments including blacksmiths, scrimshaw artists, and the infamous Port Royal Privateers are sure to entertain and amaze guests of all ages and are not to be missed. Additionally, you can explore the historic tallships and listen to the crew share tails of adventure and life at sea. The festival begins on Friday evening as the tall ships parade into Dana Point Harbor. On the weekend, visitors can enjoy maritime displays and demonstrations, music concerts, Polynesian dancing, pirates, and dramatic sunset cannon battles. Visitors can also explore the historic tall ships and listen to the crew share tales of adventure and life at sea. Inside the Ocean Institute guests can experience live parrot shows, pirate games, music, wood carving, ship models and special presentations. Join us for a weekend of fun and adventure as we celebrate the area's rich maritime history. Participating tall ships typically include the brig Pilgrim, Spirit of Dana Point, Californian, Curlew, Exy Johnson, Irving Johnson, and the American Pride. Visiting ships are subject to change. For complete information about the festival visit www.tallshipsfestival.com.

OCTOBER 2010

Oct 2-3 San Dimas Rodeo - San Dimas
Will be held Saturday October 2nd and Sunday October 3rd, 2010. The gates will open at 11:00. AM Events Begin At 1:00 PM at the Tex Shoemaker Rodeo Arena at Horsethief Canyon Park. http://sandimasrodeo.com

SoCal Photo Opps June 2010

2010-05-28T20:30:00.000-07:00

JUNE 2010 last update 6-25-10

Through - June 20 Weekends. Koroneburg Old World Festival - Corona
This is my favorite renaissance fair located at Riverview Park, off River Road. They have permanent buildings that make great backdrops, lots of shade, flat walking area. This is a smaller event than the one in Irwindale. I think this makes for better images. Lots of entertainment. Meet hundreds of family members living, working & playing in Southern California’s only permanent Renaissance Village! Visitors to this 1450-1600 European Village are entertained, discover fine arts and crafts, and enjoy delectable food and beverages. The setting is the fictitious estate of the Baron Heinrich Von Lauffer, located along the Rhine river (aka Santa Ana River) between Mainz and Strasbourg. Each year the Baron invites the finest minds and most talented actors to celebrate the coming of spring at his Barony of Koroneburg. The festival celebrates the inventions and changes of the renaissance period. Time: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturdays & 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sundays. Location: Crossroads Riverview Park 14600 River Rd, Corona, CA 92880. Cost: $18 Adult; $15 Child 5-11 or Senior 62+; $12 Military with valid ID; Children under 5 Free.
www.renaissanceinfo.com/riverview

June 4-6 - Temecula Balloon and Wine Festival - Temecula
FESTIVAL LOCATION: Lake Skinner Recreation Area 37701 Warren Rd. Winchester, CA 92596
GATES OPEN: 5:00 pm FRIDAY, 6:00 am SATURDAY AND SUNDAY HOURS: Friday - 5:00 pm to 11:00 pm., Saturday - 6:00 am to 11:00 pm., Sunday - 6:00 am to 6:00 pm.
Photographers revel in the visuals from dawn mass balloon ascensions to evening balloon glows. The Festival kicks off Friday, June 4 at 5 p.m. with a country music concert on the main stage, arts and craft fair, wine tasting and the luminescent extravaganza known as the "Balloon Glow." The Glow is created when balloon pilots synchronize igniting burners of the balloons. The burner is what creates the “hot” in the air. Whether done to a musical beat or the crowd’s demand to “Glow,” the balloons appear to dance as they flicker and shine against the hues of dusk and nightfall. Held both Friday and Saturday nights around 8 p.m. (after dusk), the Glow is one of the most popular entertainment options of the Festival. Saturday and Sunday mornings are spectacular at the Festival when colorful hot air balloons dot the pastel dawn skies of Temecula. The mass balloon ascension takes place between 6 a.m. and 7 a.m. weather permitting. Guests are encouraged to arrive early as hot air balloons need the cool morning air to fly.
http://www.tvbwf.com/media/press-releases/?Article=1237

June 5 - Steve McQueen Car Show - Chino Hills
On June 5th, we will again gather for the 3rd Annual Friends of Steve McQueen Car Show. Once again, all Show proceeds will benefit the Boys Republic in Chino Hills.
Chad McQueen shows off his fathers cars alongside more than 200 Porsches, Ferraris, Cobras and Mustangs on the grounds of the Boys Republic. www.porsche356club.org

June 5 Santa Maria Elks Rodeo and Parade. - Santa Maria
67th Annual rodeo and parade lineup features a mini rodeo and PBR performance on June 3, followed by rodeo performances on June 4, 5 and 6. Opens at 9 AM, Horse race, the famous mutton bustin’, Pro Rodeo Cowboy Association events, including bull riding, bronc riding, calf roping, steer wrestling, bareback riding, barrel racing, local team roping and specialty acts. The rodeo parade, featuring marching bands, beautiful floats, show horses and more will be held on June 5 along South Broadway from Mill to Enos. Location: Elks Unocal Event Center 4040 Highway 101 at Santa Maria Way Santa Maria CA. Call: (805) 922-6006 www.santamariaelks.com

June 5-6 - Concours d-Elegance - Huntington Beach
Vintage cars, motorcycles, and bicycles with live bands, kids activities, food and automotive memorabilia. Huntington Beach Central Park 7111 Talbert Ave. - Huntington Beach, CA 9AM-2PM www.hbconcours.org

June 6 - Lowrider 2010 Tour - San Bernardino
Over 700 customized rides and 20,000 fans, Bikini Contest and entertainment. Sponsered by Low Rider Magazine. 11-5pm at the National Orange Show, 689 S. "E" St.
http://krang.lowridermagazine.com/lowridertour/San%20Bernardino%20June%202010.pdf

June 12 - Optimist Car Show - Redlands
Time: June 12, 2010 from 7am to 3pm Location: Sylvan Park, Redlands. http://www.redlandsoptimistclub.org/

June 12 - Cowboys, Heros and Outlaws Festival - Ventura
A 19th Century fair with hands-on exhibits, food and entertainment. We transform the park grounds into a nineteenth century fair. Designed for families with children,
but everyone is welcome. Hands-on Exhibits, Food, Entertainment! 10AM-4PM. 4200 Olivas Park Drive Ventura, CA 93003 http://www.olivasadobe.org/calendar-of-events.html

June 12-13 - Dewey Webber Longboard Classic and Surf-a-Rama - Dana Point Weekend surfing contest for longboard surfers of all ages, surf expo, live music and food. Doheny State Beach. www.deweyweber.com

June 12-13 - Special Olympics Summer Games- Long Beach
June 12 noon-5, June 13 8am-3pm. Opening ceremony 10Am in the track stadium. Over 1100 athletes to compete in several sports including track and basketball. Cal State Long Beach. http://www.sosc.org/Page.aspx?pid=726

June 17 Muzeo Photographers Night (Photograph Frogs) - Anaheim
The MUZEO Museum engages the community by exploring and celebrating our diverse heritage, culture and arts through creative programming. Photographers can get an up-close-and-personal view of the live frogs currently on exhibit at MUZEO located in the heart of downtown Anaheim. On Thursday, June 17th from 5PM to 9PM MUZEO will host a special photographer’s “after hours event” giving shutter bugs full access to the visually stunning amphibians who are featured in MUZEO’s current exhibition Frogs: A Chorus of Colors. This exhibition features over 100 live frogs from all over the world. The zookeeper will also be on hand to open habitats and answer any questions. The Frog Exposure evening will also include mini workshops, presentations and displays for photo loving guests. Tickets are $20 and must be pre-purchases online prior to arrival. MUZEO is located at 241 South Anaheim Boulevard in Anaheim, CA. Parking is available in the parking structures on Center Street Promenade. For more information or to order tickets please go online to www.MUZEO.org

June 18-20 - Classic Car Show - Pismo Beach
Nearly 1000 classic cars and street rods, car cruise, music and vendors. The Classic at Pismo Beach is one of the largest classic car and street rod shows on the West Coast and "one of the finest." Pismo Beach, California, is the host city for this classic car show, now coming up on its 25th year. This show, held annually on the 3rd full weekend of June, pulls in 1000 classic cars and street rods and over 125,000 spectators over three days. Downtown. www.thepismobeachclassic.com

June 20 - Rodeo Drive Concours d'Elegance - Beverly Hills
More than 100 exotic cars will be on display in the 300 and 400 blocks of Rodeo Drive. The 2010 Rodeo Drive Concours d’Elegance will be held on Father’s Day, Sunday, June 20, 2010 and is presented by the Rodeo Drive Committee in association with the City of Beverly Hills. The annual Father¹s Day event will highlight a superb combination of automobiles and entries will include, Classic Cars 1925 1948, Pre-1975 American Cars, Muscle Cars, Sports Cars, European Cars, Woodys, Hot Rods, Customs, Race Cars, Vintage Motorcycles and special interest vehicles from throughout Southern California and the Western United States.
www.rodeodrive-bh.com

June 19-20 - Pasadena Chalk Festival - Pasadena
The 18th annual Pasadena Chalk Festival at Paseo Colorado will celebrate Father’s Day Weekend on June 19 and 20, 2010 from 10am to 7pm, as thousands of spectators enjoy the annual festival that is open to the public and free of charge. Paseo Colorado’s interconnected mix of retail, entertainment, housing and garden promenades helps the Pasadena Chalk Festival continue the legacy of the street painting art form by offering festival visitors an opportunity to shop, dine or see a movie as the artworks come to life. Over 500 artists come from all across Southern California to spend two days on their hands and knees creating 175 spectacular chalk murals on concrete areas in every style imaginable. Paseo Colorado is located at 280 East Colorado Boulevard (between Marengo and Los Robles Avenues) in the heart of Pasadena’s historic downtown Civic Center. www.pasadenachalkfestival.com

June 19-20 - Surf 24 - Huntington Beach
24 hour surfing competition features surf celebrities, actor Ed Begley, Jr.,Celebrity surfers include Sam Trammel (True Blood), Dylan Bruno (Numb3rs), Jesse Spencer (House), Sean Patrick Flanery (Boondock Saints), Chad Lowe (24), Michael Munoz (Amazing Race), Eric Balfour (24), Brandon Boyd (Incubus), David Chokachi (Beyond the Break), Gregory Harrison (Trapper John, MD), Chris Bruno (Dead Zone) and Kathy Zuckerman (Gidget).
Time: 11 a.m. to Sunday, June 20 at Noon. Event includes surfing, vendors, a breakfast, silent auction, speeches, etc. Location: South side of Huntington Beach Pier, Huntington Beach, CA. Registration for surfing event: projectsaveoursurf.org or call 424-781-0865.

June 26-27 - Street Painting Festival - Temecula
Fine artists create giant works of aart on the asphalt canvas of Main Street, live music. Chance for amateurs to create their own chalk drawings. Main Street, Old Town. www.temeculacalifornia.com

June 26-27 - Scottish Highland Games & Gathering of the Clans - Vista Highland dancing, bagpipe and drumming competitions, sheep dog trials, atheletic competitions and Scottish food and drink. Brengle Terrace Park. 760-726-3691.

June 27 Firefighters Benefit Car Show - Rancho Cucamonga
13th Annual Rancho Cucamonga Firefighters Benefit Car Show on Sunday, June 27, 2010 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Red Hill Community Park, 7484 Vineyard. Enjoy beautifully restored classic cars, opportunity drawings and Oldies music in this lakeside park setting. Public admission is free so bring the kids, family and pets to check out this event in support of local burn survivors. Money raised will benefit the Firefighters Quest for Burn Survivors and the Burn Institute-Inland Empire.

JULY 2010

July 3-4 - Mountaineer Days - Wrightwood
Live music, bed races; a parade, nail driving contest, cowboy quickdraw, watermelon and pie eating contests, good panning, and food. Wrightwood Village. www.wrightwoodchanber.org.

July 4 - Mr and Mrs Muscle Beach Competition - Venice
Bodybuilding competition at the city's iconic Muscle Beach, Venic Beach Recreation Center. www.musclebeachvenice.com

July 4 - Obon Festival - Pacoima
Japanese cultural festival with traditional dances, taiko drumming, tea ceremonies, food, arts and crafts. Japanese American Community Center, 12953 Branford Street
Pacoima, CA., 91311 www.sfvhbt.org

July 10 Lotus Festival - Los Angeles
2-day Asian/Pacific Islander event which provides entertainment, foods, arts, crafts, children's entertainment, dragon boat racing, health & community information. 75,000 attendees expected. At Echo Park Lake, 751 Echo Park Ave. Starts at 10AM. If you are not into the festival, this is the time of the Lotus blooms that make great pictures. You might want to go here on another day just to photograph the blooms.

July 10 - Celebration on the Colorado Street Bridge - Pasadena
This bridge is photogenic anytime but may have some special possibilities at this evening celebration with live music, dancing, antique cars, and food. www.pasadenaheritage.org.

July 10-11 - Big Bear Lake Paddlefest - Fawnskin
Beginner through advanced clinics and races for kayaks and canoes, boat demos and an outdoor sports exhibit. North Shore, Big Bear Lake. www.bigbearpaddlefest.com

July 10-11 Old Fort MacArthur Days - San Pedro
Location fort MacArthur Museum, Angel State Park, 3601 South Gaffey. Big Event with reeanactments from Civil War to WWII. Hours 10am-4pm. http://fortmacarthur.tripod.com/ or www.ftmac.org

July 11 - Concours d'Elegance - Dana Point
Weekend car show overlooking Dana Point Harbor and the Pacific. Lantern Bay Park.
www.porsche356club.org. 25111 Park Lantern Rd

July 11 - Surfin Paws Dog Jam - Huntington Beach
Competition for surfboard riding pups. Benefit for the Orange County Society for the Prevention of Cruelity to Animals. Huntington Beach Dog Beach at Goldenwest Street and PCH. www.surfinpaws.com

July 17-18 Ocean Festival - San Clemente
Full weekend of family events Classic Woody Car Show, Surf and Ocean Art Show, Children's activities. Annual Beach Party and Concert included. At the San Clemente Pier. Watch for Woodies parading down from Ave. Del Mar and onto the pier both mornings! There will be a different set of 15 each day in a wide variety of colors and styles to see! Surfing Contest and Great rubber Duck Race. http://www.oceanfestival.org

July 24, Aug 21-22 and Sept 25-26 Cruise Aboard the Lane Victory, WWII Ship - San Pedro
The Lane Victory is a WWII Merchant Marine Ship built in 1945 and docked at San Pedro. Normally a museum, it sails out to Catalina Island and back several times a year. This is the first cruise of the year. I did this cruise last year and had a blast. Lunch is served along with drinks. WWII entertainment and reeanactors on board, German spy is captured and the ship will be attacked by WWII German aircraft on the way back and saved by the US planes. Lots to photograph and a fun day. Located at Pier 94 in San Pedro. LA Fire Boats greet the ship on the way into port--blowing water. http://www.lanevictory.org

July 30-31 - Citrus Classic Balloon Festival - Santa Paula
Let your summer take flight. . . with hot air balloons flying over scenic citrus orchards and rolling hills towards views of the Pacific Ocean, the Third Annual Citrus Classic Balloon Festival is THE best backdrop for THE balloon event closest to Greater Los Angeles. Mingle with balloon pilots, enjoy outdoor dining, wine and beer garden, browse arts and craft vendors, get active with the Kids Activity Area, relax with live music. . . It's the perfect day trip, family summer weekend or romantic getaway - conveniently just 1.5 hours from Los Angeles! Opens Friday evening with entertainment and the glow of hot air ballons. Saturday arrive early for the sunrise ascension of more than two dozen balloons. Tethered balloon rides, music and vendors. Will also have a vintage car and motorcycle show. After sunset see the Glow of the Blue Moon. Blue lights illuminate balloons, glowing blue beach balls and a blues band. Located at the Soccer fields at 18249 E. Telegraph Road, Santa Paula. $10.00 at the gate, 5PM-10PM Friday,
5AM-10PM Saturday. www.citrusclassicballoons.com

July 30-Aug 1 - International Surf Festival - Beach Cities - Southbay
Lifegard competitions, aquatic sports competitions, volleyball tournaments and two mile beach run. Manhattan, Hermosa and Redondo Beaches. www.surffestival.org

July 31- Aug 1 Long Beach Civil War Reeanactment - Long Beach
Location: El Dorado park, 7550 E Spring St., Hours 10am-5pm. $10.00 adults/$8.00 Seniors. http://www.beachcalifornia.com/california/civil-war-reenact-events.html

July 31 - Aug 1 - Long Beach Dragon Boat Festival - Long Beach
Dragon Boat competitions, acrobats, food and art exhibits. Traditional dance, mucic. Marine Stadium. www.lbdragonboat.com

July 31 - Hurley US Open of Surfing - Huntington Beach
8am-5pm After a record-breaking 2009 event, the Hurley US Open of Surfing is back in Huntington Beach. In addition to great surfing, you’ll find the Hurley Walk the Walk Fashion Show, a 14-acre Festival Village that allows attendees to sample products and services from the action sports industry, a BMX and skateboard competition and more. Admission to all events is free, so don’t miss out on this exciting, action-packed beach festival!

AUGUST 2010

July 31-Aug. 8 - US Open of Surfing - Huntington Beach
Welcome you sand lovers! US Open of Surfing & Beach Games isn't just surfing. It's music, sand, limbo, spray on tattoos, freebies, cute guy & girl poster signings and a whole lotta xtreme sports. http://www.usopenofsurfing.com

Aug 1 - Lowrider Nationals - Bakersfield
Urban car culture and lifestyle show with more than 500 custom-designed cars. Hop contest, car audio sound off and live music. Kern County Fairgrounds. www.lowridernationals.com

Aug 6-8 - US Open Sand Castle Competition - Imperial Beach
Creative teams of amateurs and professionals sculpt sand masterpieces for cash prizes. Also street fair and live entertainment. Competition starts 9 AM on Aug. 8th and jusging begins at 2PM. Viewing till 4 PM www.usopensandcastle.com

Aug 19-22 - Big Bear Cowboy Gathering - Big Bear Lake
Wild West weekend of cowboy music, poetry, reenactors, storytellers, merechants and barbecue. Big Bear Lake Performing Arts Center (909)866-4970. www.bigbearcowboygathering.net

Aug 20-29 - Antelope Valley Fair - Lancaster
Usual fair activity but they have a very nice judged photographic print display that is worth seeing. Antelope Vally Fairgrounds.

Aug 21 - Mountain Classic Car Show - Wrightwood
Pre-1973 American hot-rods, customs, classics, muscle cars and trucks. Live music, food, poker walk and lowrider trike drag race. Wrightwood Village, www.wrightwoodchamber.org.

Aug 28-29 Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo - San Juan Capistrano
The rodeo will take place at the Oaks Blenheim Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park, located at the intersection of Ortega Highway and Antonio Parkway/La Pata on the western border of the Rancho Mission Viejo in South Orange County.
The Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo is good old entertainment for the entire family, not to mention the richest 2-day rodeo in the nation with a purse totaling over $200,000. The top 30 rodeo contestants in saddle bronc and bareback riding, tie-down roping, steer wrestling, bull riding and team roping will come to San Juan Capistrano for this chance of a lifetime. Gates open at 2PM Sat, rodeo starts at 4PM and gates open at 11:30 AM on Sunday, rodeo starts at 1:30 PM. While I have not photographed at this rodeo, I have heard it is a good one. http://www.rmvrodeo.com

SEPTEMBER 2010

Sept. 4-5 Civil War Re-Enactment - Huntington Beach
Where: Huntington Central Park 18000 Goldenwest St. Visit and tour large scale Confederate and Union encampments as more than 200 re-enactors stage famous battles of the Civil War. The two-day event includes live canon and weapon demonstrations, actors in full costume, food vendors and a Civil War-era band. On Saturday the first battle will be at 1:30 p.m. and the second at 4 p.m. Sunday features a church service at 9 a.m. then a battle at 11 a.m. and another one at 2 p.m.

Sept. 11-13 - Tall Ships Festival - Dana Point Harbor
The largest annual gathering of tallships on the West Coast, this festival features a spectacular array of family-fun activities including live music, art shows and a variety of tasty food. Interactive living-history encampments including blacksmiths, scrimshaw artists, and the infamous Port Royal Privateers are sure to entertain and amaze guests of all ages and are not to be missed. Additionally, you can explore the historic tallships and listen to the crew share tails of adventure and life at sea. The festival begins on Friday evening as the tall ships parade into Dana Point Harbor. On the weekend, visitors can enjoy maritime displays and demonstrations, music concerts, Polynesian dancing, pirates, and dramatic sunset cannon battles. Visitors can also explore the historic tall ships and listen to the crew share tales of adventure and life at sea. Inside the Ocean Institute guests can experience live parrot shows, pirate games, music, wood carving, ship models and special presentations. Join us for a weekend of fun and adventure as we celebrate the area's rich maritime history. Participating tall ships typically include the brig Pilgrim, Spirit of Dana Point, Californian, Curlew, Exy Johnson, Irving Johnson, and the American Pride. Visiting ships are subject to change. For complete information about the festival visit www.tallshipsfestival.com.

OCTOBER 2010

Oct 2-3 San Dimas Rodeo - San Dimas
Will be held Saturday October 2nd and Sunday October 3rd, 2010. The gates will open at 11:00. AM Events Begin At 1:00 PM at the Tex Shoemaker Rodeo Arena at Horsethief Canyon Park. http://sandimasrodeo.com

May 2010 Photo Opps

2010-04-25T22:08:00.000-07:00

MAY 2010

Through May 23 Weekends - Renaissance Pleasure Fair - Irwindale
This is the largest of the Renaissance Fairs, located at the Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area, 15501 E. Arrow Hwy. Hours 10 AM - 7 PM. www.renfair.com/socal

May 1-2, May 5, May 8-9 Cinco de Mayo - Los Angeles
Popular and traditional music, dancing, and food. El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument, Olvera Street. www.elpueblo.lacity.org or www.calleolvera.com

May 1 Pasadena Doo Dah Parade - Pasadena
SATURDAY, MAY 1st, Colorado Blvd., in East Pasadena, stepping off at 11:00am. Daring to go where no parade has gone before, this year’s Pasadena Doo Dah Parade will venture eastward for the first time in its colorful history. While the alternative event has enjoyed much popular success in the Old Pasadena retail and entertainment district, organizers are excited to bring the eclectic parade to the town-like setting of East Pasadena. “Old Pasadena has been a terrific backdrop and host for the Doo Dah Parade,” says organizer Tom Coston. “But East Pasadena is an exciting new frontier with its own local character and possibilities. It’ll be a great party for all!” WHERE: Colorado Blvd. (between Sierra Madre and San Gabriel Blvds.)
Pasadena (Start Location: 2627 E. Colorado Blvd. 91107http://www.pasadenadoodahparade.info/

May 1-2 March AFB Air Show -- Rverside
Gates open at 8 AM, close at 6 PM. Free admission and parking.

May 1-2 Renaissance Faire - Escondido, CA
Location Felicita Park, 742 Clarence Lane. Hours 10-6 Daily http://www.goldcoastfestivals.com/EscoGenInfo.html

May 2 American Diabetes Association Tour de Cure 2010 - Long Beach
while this event is designed for cyclists, it sounds like it might be a great chance to get a lot of rider images, especially on the bridges.
The Tour de Cure offers cyclists a once a year opportunity to ride the Gerald Desmond and Vincent Thomas port bridges from Long Beach to Los Angeles. After pausing at our San Pedro Ports O Call rest stop, cyclists choose between a scenic ride to the southern bluffs of Palos Verdes; a metric century, which includes a breath-taking climb to the top of Palos Verdes East; or a relaxing return to the Queen Mary on a harbor cruise that cyclists young and less young will enjoy.
http://tour.diabetes.org/site/TR/TourdeCure/TDC552018030?pg=entry&fr_id=6896

May 8 Warbirds, Wings & Wheels II - Paso Robles
Pre 1979 Classic cars and trucks, military airplanes and vehicles. Estrella Warbirds Museum. We are dedicated to the restoration and preservation of military aircraft military vehicles and memorabilia to those who flew and worked on military aircraft. Our approach, however, is not to glorify conflict but rather to make a future generation aware of the fact our way of life does not come without sacrifice.
4251 Dry Creek Road. www.ewarbirds.org

May 8 - National Train Day - Los Angeles
Downtown Union Station, 800 N Alameda St. Come on down to the station and join the celebration in Los Angeles! Don't miss your chance to see model trains, train equipment displays and much more: •The Railroad Braceros Exhibit* •Train Equipment Displays* •Model Train Displays* •AmtraKids Depot Go-Green Express: Eco Exhibit*
•National Park Service Trails & Rails Exhibit* •Snapshot Station •Trains Move our Economy Exhibit* •Amtrak: Dining the Rail Way* exhibit and culinary demonstrations, featuring Chef Marcel Lagnaz •Amtrak Brand Display - Enjoy the journey®* •Amtrak California: A Winning Partnership* •Live performances by the USC Trojan Marching Band and Playhouse Disney's Choo-Choo Soul with Genevieve! http://www.nationaltrainday.com/events/la/

May 8-9 San Bernardino National Train Day - San Bernardino
Amtrack trains, a steam engine, model trains, railroad artifacts, reeanactors, music and vendors. San Bernardino Depot, 1170 W Third St. (909) 260-5745; sbdepotmuseum.com

May 8-9 Streak 37 Car Show - San Diego
More than 400 cars, music, Mr and Miss Hot Rod Contest. Campland by the Bay, 2211 Pacific Beach Dr. www.overthehillgang.com

May 8 - June 20 Weekends. Koroneburg Old World Festival - Corona
This is my favorite renaissance fair located at Riverview Park, off River Road. They have permanent buildings that make great backdrops, lots of shade, flat walking area. This is a smaller event than the one in Irwindale. I think this makes for better images. Lots of entertainment. Meet hundreds of family members living, working & playing in Southern California’s only permanent Renaissance Village! Visitors to this 1450-1600 European Village are entertained, discover fine arts and crafts, and enjoy delectable food and beverages. The setting is the fictitious estate of the Baron Heinrich Von Lauffer, located along the Rhine river (aka Santa Ana River) between Mainz and Strasbourg. Each year the Baron invites the finest minds and most talented actors to celebrate the coming of spring at his Barony of Koroneburg. The festival celebrates the inventions and changes of the renaissance period. Time: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturdays & 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sundays. Location: Crossroads Riverview Park 14600 River Rd, Corona, CA 92880. Cost: $18 Adult; $15 Child 5-11 or Senior 62+; $12 Military with valid ID; Children under 5 Free.
www.renaissanceinfo.com/riverview

May 15 Moonridge Zoo Photographers Day and Photo Contest - Big Bear
This small zoo in the mountains has a photo day and contest to get pictures for their calender. Susan and I had 4 images in the 2009 Calender. View at the website. Photo Day is 10AM-4PM. Special photo ops with some of the animals. www.moonridgezoo.org

May 15-16 Battle of Costa Mesa - Costa Mesa
Civil War Reeanactment at Fairview Park, Hours 9am-5PM with battles at 11am and 2 pm. This annual event sponsered by AMVETS.

May 15-16 Planes of Fame Airshow - Chino Airport
Great airshow with lots vintage planes. Warbirds from all over the US come to Chino for this event. The theme of Airshow 2010 is “A Salute To The Greatest Generation.” This year, the Museum will fly its aircraft to honor the men and women whose service and sacrifice during World War II has caused them to become known as the “Greatest Generation.” Special for Photographers, Planes of Fame and the County of San Bernardino Airshow will be offering a limited number of Sunrise Photo Access passes. Get exclusive access to air show displays before the show gates open with our Sunrise Photo Access Pass. Now’s your chance to get better photos of air show displays and selected performer aircraft without the crowd in the foreground. Sunrise Photo Access Pass Holders will be given access to the static displays prior to entrance gates opening. You must purchase this ticket before May 1st through the website or by May 7th in the museum Gift Shop. NO EXCEPTIONS! $75 includes admission to the show.
http://www.planesoffame.org/airshow2010.php

May 15-16 Western Days - Temecula
Weekend annual mock gunfights, activities, vendors, and entertainment in the streets of Old Town. Saturday will feature a Western and Historical art competition and art show presented by the Temecula Valley Art League. Join the cast from the Temecula Gunfighters, numerous visiting gun fighting clubs, and other Old West costumed characters as they perform humorous skits and the high noon shoot out and robbery at The Bank. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. cityoftemecula.org

May 15-16 - Annual Muckenthaler Motorcar Festival - Fullerton
Muckenthaler Cultural Center, 1201 W. Malvern, Fullerton. A One-of-a-kind Automotive Cultural Event, this oldest and grandest car show in North Orange County hosts Hot Rods and a Concours d'Elegance with the true classics of the automotive industry spread out over 8 acres of lawns.

May 15-16 Southern California Beach Soccer Championship - Oceanside. Soccer Games on the beach, soccer clinics, samba and surfing lessons. Oceanside Harbor Beach. www.beachsoccerusa.org

May 15-16 All Nations Pow Wow - Acton, CA
Billed as a traditional pow wow. 9:30AM - 7PM each day. KOA Campground, 7601 Soledad Canyon Rd. Acton is on HwY 14 near Lancaster.

May 15-16 Lesbian & Gay Pride Celebration - Long Beach
Annual two day festival with multiple stages of live entertainment, dancing, food and vendors. Plus a large parade along Ocean Blvd on May 16. www.longbeachpride.org

May 16 Civil War Reeanactment - Ft. Tejon
Another of the monthly civil war reeanactments held at this real fort on the Grapevine just off Interstate 5. Battles at 10:30am and 1 pm. Walk through the camps between battles. Bring Lunch.

May 16 50th Topanga Banjo and Fiddle Contest - Aguroa Hills
Location: Paramount Ranch, Cornell Rd. Agoura Hills. 4 stages {for the contest stage you will want to bring blankets or LOW BACK chairs.} There is jamming throughout the park, every where you look there are folks meeting up to play,
clogging and square dancing too. 9am - 6 pm, $15.00/$10.00 seniors at the gate, early ticket sales discounts. http://www.topangabanjofiddle.org

May 22 Loews Coronado Bay Surf Dog Competition - Imperial Beach
Annual Surfing Competition of Canines that raises funds for local pet-related charities. See Spot surf during the Loews Dog Surfing Competition – the nation’s original surfing competition for man’s best friend. Dozens of canines from across the U.S. will hang 10 (errr, 20) for a great cause.
Hours 10-2. North end of Imperial Beach. www.loewssurfdog.com

May 22 Airport and Safe Boating Day - Fullerton
The fun will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and admission is free.
4011 W. Commonwealth. Not what you usualy think of as a photogenic event but some of the displays and guests may make for interesting images.
Displays of vintage aircraft, safe boating information, plus an appearance by Commander Chuck Street, air traffic reporter for both television station KTLA and radio station KIIS, are just some of the attractions planned for the day.
Special guests at the event will include veterans of the famed Tuskegee Airmen, America's first black military airmen, who participated in many decisive air battles in World War II. Also on hand will be a veteran of the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP), the first women in history trained to fly American military aircraft. The WASPs flew support missions for the military during World War II. In addition, the event will offer aviation-related displays and booths, and the Fullerton Chapter of the Ninety-Nines, a women pilots organization, will offer plane rides for a fee. The Orange County Fire Authority, the Anaheim Police Department and the California Highway Patrol will open their air operations hangars at the airport for tours.
http://www.cityoffullerton.com/depts/airport/airport_day.asp

May 22-23 Ojai Renaissance and Pirate Faire - Ojai at Lake Casitas
Near Ventura, great rolling hill and Lake location, 10AM-6PM
http://www.goldcoastfestivals.com/ojairen/renpg1.html

May 25-30 Mule Days Celebration - Bishop, CA.
Every year during the Memorial Day Weekend, more than 700 mules compete in 181 events at the Bishop Mule Days Celebration. There is no way to actually describe Mule Days. It is part mule show, part test of skills, and part Wild West show.
Situated on the Tri-County Fairgrounds in Bishop, California, Mule Days has become an international world class event. Crowds have grown from 200 to more than 30,000 fans! The longest running non-motorized parade on Saturday morning, Steer roping and penning, an event normally reserved for quarter horses, and the Packer's Scramble – the wildest, noisiest and funniest event of the weekend. http://www.muledays.org/

May 29-30 Chili Cook-Off and Car/Motorcycle Show - Riverside
International Chili Society cook-off with community and celebrity cooks, car and motorcycle show, music, arts and crafts. Magnolia Ave between van buren Blvd. and Jackson Street. (951) 509-1100; www.riversideabp.com

May 29-30 Madonnari Italian Street Painting Festival - Santa Barbara. Chalk street paintings by local artists, live music and authenic Italian Market. Hours 10-5. Old Mission Santa Barbara. The Santa Barbara Mission is located at the corner of Los Olivos and Laguna Streets. http://www.imadonnarifestival.com/

May 29-30 Scots Fest - Costa Mesa
More than 60 clans, Celtic Music, piping and drumming, Scottish athletics, Highland dancing, vendors, Scottish food, sheepherding demonstration. Orange County Fair and Events Center. www.scotsfest.com

May 30-31 LA Invasion Muscle Carshow - Fontana
GM muscle car show, barbecue, drag racing, autocross, live music. Autoclub Speedway.
Sunday bikini models and drag races. http://losangelesinvasion.com/

JUNE 2010

June 5 - Steve McQueen Car Show - Chino Hills
On June 5th, we will again gather for the 3rd Annual Friends of Steve McQueen Car Show. Once again, all Show proceeds will benefit the Boys Republic in Chino Hills.
Chad McQueen shows off his fathers cars alongside more than 200 Porsches, Ferraris, Cobras and Mustangs on the grounds of the Boys Republic. www.porsche356club.org

June 5 Santa Maria Elks Rodeo and Parade. - Santa Maria
67th Annual rodeo and parade lineup features a mini rodeo and PBR performance on June 3, followed by rodeo performances on June 4, 5 and 6. Opens at 9 AM, Horse race, the famous mutton bustin’, Pro Rodeo Cowboy Association events, including bull riding, bronc riding, calf roping, steer wrestling, bareback riding, barrel racing, local team roping and specialty acts. The rodeo parade, featuring marching bands, beautiful floats, show horses and more will be held on June 5 along South Broadway from Mill to Enos. Location: Elks Unocal Event Center 4040 Highway 101 at Santa Maria Way Santa Maria CA. Call: (805) 922-6006 www.santamariaelks.com

June 5-6 - Concours d-Elegance - Huntington Beach
Vintage cars, motorcycles, and bicycles with live bands, kids activities, food and automotive memorabilia. Huntington Beach Central Park 7111 Talbert Ave. - Huntington Beach, CA 9AM-2PM www.hbconcours.org

June 6 - Lowrider 2010 Tour - San Bernardino
Over 700 customized rides and 20,000 fans, Bikini Contest and entertainment. Sponsered by Low Rider Magazine. 11-5pm at the National Orange Show, 689 S. "E" St.
http://krang.lowridermagazine.com/lowridertour/San%20Bernardino%20June%202010.pdf

June 12 - Optimist Car Show - Redlands
Time: June 12, 2010 from 7am to 3pm Location: Sylvan Park, Redlands. http://www.redlandsoptimistclub.org/

June 12 - Cowboys, Heros and Outlaws Festival - Ventura
A 19th Century fair with hands-on exhibits, food and entertainment. We transform the park grounds into a nineteenth century fair. Designed for families with children,
but everyone is welcome. Hands-on Exhibits, Food, Entertainment! 10AM-4PM. 4200 Olivas Park Drive Ventura, CA 93003 http://www.olivasadobe.org/calendar-of-events.html

June 12-13 - Dewey Webber Longboard Classic and Surf-a-Rama - Dana Point Weekend surfing contest for longboard surfers of all ages, surf expo, live music and food. Doheny State Beach. www.deweyweber.com

June 12-13 - Special Olympics Summer Games- Long Beach
June 12 noon-5, June 13 8am-3pm. Opening ceremony 10Am in the track stadium. Over 1100 athletes to compete in several sports including track and basketball. Cal State Long Beach. http://www.sosc.org/Page.aspx?pid=726

June 17 Muzeo Photographers Night (Photograph Frogs) - Anaheim
The MUZEO Museum engages the community by exploring and celebrating our diverse heritage, culture and arts through creative programming. Photographers can get an up-close-and-personal view of the live frogs currently on exhibit at MUZEO located in the heart of downtown Anaheim. On Thursday, June 17th from 5PM to 9PM MUZEO will host a special photographer’s “after hours event” giving shutter bugs full access to the visually stunning amphibians who are featured in MUZEO’s current exhibition Frogs: A Chorus of Colors. This exhibition features over 100 live frogs from all over the world. The zookeeper will also be on hand to open habitats and answer any questions. The Frog Exposure evening will also include mini workshops, presentations and displays for photo loving guests. Tickets are $20 and must be pre-purchases online prior to arrival. MUZEO is located at 241 South Anaheim Boulevard in Anaheim, CA. Parking is available in the parking structures on Center Street Promenade. For more information or to order tickets please go online to www.MUZEO.org

June 18-20 - Classic Car Show - Pismo Beach
Nearly 1000 classic cars and street rods, car cruise, music and vendors. The Classic at Pismo Beach is one of the largest classic car and street rod shows on the West Coast and "one of the finest." Pismo Beach, California, is the host city for this classic car show, now coming up on its 25th year. This show, held annually on the 3rd full weekend of June, pulls in 1000 classic cars and street rods and over 125,000 spectators over three days. Downtown. www.thepismobeachclassic.com

June 20 - Rodeo Drive Concours d'Elegance - Beverly Hills
More than 100 exotic cars will be on display in the 300 and 400 blocks of Rodeo Drive. The 2010 Rodeo Drive Concours d’Elegance will be held on Father’s Day, Sunday, June 20, 2010 and is presented by the Rodeo Drive Committee in association with the City of Beverly Hills. The annual Father¹s Day event will highlight a superb combination of automobiles and entries will include, Classic Cars 1925 1948, Pre-1975 American Cars, Muscle Cars, Sports Cars, European Cars, Woodys, Hot Rods, Customs, Race Cars, Vintage Motorcycles and special interest vehicles from throughout Southern California and the Western United States.
www.rodeodrive-bh.com

June 19-20 - Pasadena Chalk Festival - Pasadena
The 18th annual Pasadena Chalk Festival at Paseo Colorado will celebrate Father’s Day Weekend on June 19 and 20, 2010 from 10am to 7pm, as thousands of spectators enjoy the annual festival that is open to the public and free of charge. Paseo Colorado’s interconnected mix of retail, entertainment, housing and garden promenades helps the Pasadena Chalk Festival continue the legacy of the street painting art form by offering festival visitors an opportunity to shop, dine or see a movie as the artworks come to life. Over 500 artists come from all across Southern California to spend two days on their hands and knees creating 175 spectacular chalk murals on concrete areas in every style imaginable. Paseo Colorado is located at 280 East Colorado Boulevard (between Marengo and Los Robles Avenues) in the heart of Pasadena’s historic downtown Civic Center. www.pasadenachalkfestival.com

June 19-20 - Surf 24 - Huntington Beach
24 hour surfing competition features surf celebrities, actor Ed Begley, Jr.,Celebrity surfers include Sam Trammel (True Blood), Dylan Bruno (Numb3rs), Jesse Spencer (House), Sean Patrick Flanery (Boondock Saints), Chad Lowe (24), Michael Munoz (Amazing Race), Eric Balfour (24), Brandon Boyd (Incubus), David Chokachi (Beyond the Break), Gregory Harrison (Trapper John, MD), Chris Bruno (Dead Zone) and Kathy Zuckerman (Gidget).
Time: 11 a.m. to Sunday, June 20 at Noon. Event includes surfing, vendors, a breakfast, silent auction, speeches, etc. Location: South side of Huntington Beach Pier, Huntington Beach, CA. Registration for surfing event: projectsaveoursurf.org or call 424-781-0865.

June 26-27 - Street Painting Festival - Temecula
Fine artists create giant works of aart on the asphalt canvas of Main Street, live music. Chance for amateurs to create their own chalk drawings. Main Street, Old Town. www.temeculacalifornia.com

June 26-27 - Scottish Highland Games & Gathering of the Clans - Vista Highland dancing, bagpipe and drumming competitions, sheep dog trials, atheletic competitions and Scottish food and drink. Brengle Terrace Park. 760-726-3691.

June 27 Firefighters Benefit Car Show - Rancho Cucamonga
13th Annual Rancho Cucamonga Firefighters Benefit Car Show on Sunday, June 27, 2010 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Red Hill Community Park, 7484 Vineyard. Enjoy beautifully restored classic cars, opportunity drawings and Oldies music in this lakeside park setting. Public admission is free so bring the kids, family and pets to check out this event in support of local burn survivors. Money raised will benefit the Firefighters Quest for Burn Survivors and the Burn Institute-Inland Empire.

JULY 2010

July 10 Lotus Festival - Los Angeles
2-day Asian/Pacific Islander event which provides entertainment, foods, arts, crafts, children's entertainment, dragon boat racing, health & community information. 75,000 attendees expected. At Echo Park Lake, 751 Echo Park Ave. Starts at 10AM. If you are not into the festival, this is the time of the Lotus blooms that make great pictures. You might want to go here on another day just to photograph the blooms.

July 10-11 Old Fort MacArthur Days - San Pedro
Location fort MacArthur Museum, Angel State Park, 3601 South Gaffey. Big Event with reeanactments from Civil War to WWII. Hours 10am-4pm. http://fortmacarthur.tripod.com/

July 17-18 Ocean Festival - San Clemente
Full weekend of family events Classic Woody Car Show, Surf and Ocean Art Show, Children's activities. Annual Beach Party and Concert included. At the San Clemente Pier. Watch for Woodies parading down from Ave. Del Mar and onto the pier both mornings! There will be a different set of 15 each day in a wide variety of colors and styles to see! Surfing Contest and Great rubber Duck Race. http://www.oceanfestival.org

July 24 Cruise Aboard the Lane Victory, WWII Ship - San Pedro
The Lane Victory is a WWII Merchant Marine Ship built in 1945 and docked at San Pedro. Normally a museum, it sails out to Catalina Island and back several times a year. This is the first cruise of the year. I did this cruise last year and had a blast. Lunch is served along with drinks. WWII entertainment and reeanactors on board, German spy is captured and the ship will be attacked by WWII German aircraft on the way back and saved by the US planes. Lots to photograph and a fun day. Located at Pier 94 in San Pedro. LA Fire Boats greet the ship on the way into port--blowing water. http://www.lanevictory.org

July 31- Aug 1 Long Beach Civil War Reeanactment - Long Beach
Location: El Dorado park, 7550 E Spring St., Hours 10am-5pm. $10.00 adults/$8.00 Seniors. http://www.beachcalifornia.com/california/civil-war-reenact-events.html

July 31 - Hurley US Open of Surfing - Huntington Beach
8am-5pm After a record-breaking 2009 event, the Hurley US Open of Surfing is back in Huntington Beach. In addition to great surfing, you’ll find the Hurley Walk the Walk Fashion Show, a 14-acre Festival Village that allows attendees to sample products and services from the action sports industry, a BMX and skateboard competition and more. Admission to all events is free, so don’t miss out on this exciting, action-packed beach festival!

AUGUST 2010

July 31-Aug. 8 - US Open of Surfing - Huntington Beach
Welcome you sand lovers! US Open of Surfing & Beach Games isn't just surfing. It's music, sand, limbo, spray on tattoos, freebies, cute guy & girl poster signings and a whole lotta xtreme sports. http://www.usopenofsurfing.com

Aug 28-29 Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo - San Juan Capistrano
The rodeo will take place at the Oaks Blenheim Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park, located at the intersection of Ortega Highway and Antonio Parkway/La Pata on the western border of the Rancho Mission Viejo in South Orange County.
The Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo is good old entertainment for the entire family, not to mention the richest 2-day rodeo in the nation with a purse totaling over $200,000. The top 30 rodeo contestants in saddle bronc and bareback riding, tie-down roping, steer wrestling, bull riding and team roping will come to San Juan Capistrano for this chance of a lifetime. Gates open at 2PM Sat, rodeo starts at 4PM and gates open at 11:30 AM on Sunday, rodeo starts at 1:30 PM. While I have not photographed at this rodeo, I have heard it is a good one. http://www.rmvrodeo.com

SEPTEMBER 2010

Sept. 4-5 Civil War Re-Enactment - Huntington Beach
Where: Huntington Central Park 18000 Goldenwest St. Visit and tour large scale Confederate and Union encampments as more than 200 re-enactors stage famous battles of the Civil War. The two-day event includes live canon and weapon demonstrations, actors in full costume, food vendors and a Civil War-era band. On Saturday the first battle will be at 1:30 p.m. and the second at 4 p.m. Sunday features a church service at 9 a.m. then a battle at 11 a.m. and another one at 2 p.m.

Sept. 11-13 - Tall Ships Festival - Dana Point Harbor
The largest annual gathering of tallships on the West Coast, this festival features a spectacular array of family-fun activities including live music, art shows and a variety of tasty food. Interactive living-history encampments including blacksmiths, scrimshaw artists, and the infamous Port Royal Privateers are sure to entertain and amaze guests of all ages and are not to be missed. Additionally, you can explore the historic tallships and listen to the crew share tails of adventure and life at sea. The festival begins on Friday evening as the tall ships parade into Dana Point Harbor. On the weekend, visitors can enjoy maritime displays and demonstrations, music concerts, Polynesian dancing, pirates, and dramatic sunset cannon battles. Visitors can also explore the historic tall ships and listen to the crew share tales of adventure and life at sea. Inside the Ocean Institute guests can experience live parrot shows, pirate games, music, wood carving, ship models and special presentations. Join us for a weekend of fun and adventure as we celebrate the area's rich maritime history. Participating tall ships typically include the brig Pilgrim, Spirit of Dana Point, Californian, Curlew, Exy Johnson, Irving Johnson, and the American Pride. Visiting ships are subject to change. For complete information about the festival visit www.tallshipsfestival.com.

OCTOBER 2010

Oct 2-3 San Dimas Rodeo - San Dimas
Will be held Saturday October 2nd and Sunday October 3rd, 2010. The gates will open at 11:00. AM Events Begin At 1:00 PM at the Tex Shoemaker Rodeo Arena at Horsethief Canyon Park. http://sandimasrodeo.com

April 2010 Photo Opps

2010-03-26T16:07:00.000-07:00

March 27-April 18 Butterflys at Wild Animal Park - Escondido
Every Spring the Wild Animal Park has a small Butterfly House, Butterfly Jungle. Get there when the park opens, by lunch the lines are a mile long. Good selection but very small. http://www.sandiegozoo.org/butterflyjungle

April 17-25 - National Park Week - USA
If you are traveling this week, entrance fees into the National Parks will be free for all 392 National Parks. In addition, many national park concessioners are offering special promotions that are certain to add to your fun. http://www.nps.gov/npweek/

Through April 18 Santa Anita Race Track - Arcadia
Early mornings before the races, go to Clockers Corner where you can see all the horses going to the track for practice. Get great close up shots and images of the horses runing the track. Also on weekends FREE tram tour, Board the Seabiscuit Tram at Clockers Corner and take a tour of the stable area, receiving barn and Paddock Gardens. See Seabiscuit's original stall and barn, areas used during the filming of the movie Seabiscuit, the jockeys room, silks room, saddling paddock and walking ring with its topiaries and statuary. Meet the equine star of Seabiscuit, Fighting Furrari, who played the primary role in the film. See the carriage horses in their home under the grandstand. Truly a unique experience you will not soon forget. Tours depart at 8:30 a.m. and 9:45 a.m. every Saturday and Sunday during the Santa Anita season, excluding Super Bowl Sunday, February 7 and Derby Day, April 3. Season ends April 18th. http://www.santaanita.com

April 11-Sept. 6 Butterflys at LA Natural History Museum - Los Angeles
Opens to the public on April 11th, Pavilion of Wings. More than 40 different butterfly and moth species and an array of plants take up residence every summer for our much-anticipated seasonal exhibit, the Pavilion of Wings. Wander through a unique changing and growing ecosystem. Witness wondrous free-flying creatures interacting with plant life and with each other and emerge with a better understanding of the environment needed for the survival of these spectacular animals. Los Angeles Natural History Museum, 900 Exposition Park, 9:30 AM- 5 PM. http://www.nhm.org/site/explore-exhibits/special-exhibits/pavilion-of-wings

April 9-11 Del Mar Nationals - (car show) Del Mar Fairgrounds
More than 2,000 hot rods, customs, classics, muscle cars and trick trucks. Hours 8-5 Friday and Saturday, Sunday 8-3. www.delmarnationals.com

April 10 Bakersfield Highland Gathering and Games Bakersfield
Scottish atheletics, Celtic Music, pipes and drume, dancers, food and dring, vendors, kid's games at the Kern County Fairgrounds. www.kernscot.com 661-753-3306

April 10-11 Civil War Reenactment - Prado Park - Chino. Prado Park is off Euclid, south of Chino. This is my favorite civil war reenactment. It is big, covers a lot of land and the battles are in a large field of rolling hills. Not much in the background to get in your way. Large camps with lots to shoot, lots of vendors. www.sccwa.com/pradornactrflr10.pdf

April 10-11 Irvine Lake Mud Run - Irvine
Santiago Canyon Road, $5.00 Parking. This is a foot race with an obstacle course with mud pits. The Irvine Lake Mud Run is an approximate +5k course beginning and ending at picturesque Irvine Lake. The course is partially on the road and partially on trails and includes hills, water (no contact with lake anywhere), professionally built obstacles and "eight+" mud pits. May be interesting to photograph. http://www.irvinelakemudrun.com

April 10 - May 23 Weekends - Renaissance Pleasure Fair - Irwindale
This is the largest of the Renaissance Fairs, located at the Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area, 15501 E. Arrow Hwy. Hours 10 AM - 7 PM. www.renfair.com/socal

April 11 Festival 0f Dancing Colors - Eastern Dance - San Bernardino. At Cal State San Bernardino, Santos Manuel Student Union, 55500 University Parkway. All types of Eastern Dance and belly dancing. $5.00, hours 1pm-5pm.

April 17 Inland Empire Veterans Parade - Riverside
Starts at 10:00 AM, Parade route, Magnolia & Romona to Market & 10th to the Historic Riverside County Courthouse. Includes Marching Bands, Military Vehicles, Airplane Flyovers, Bagpipes, Antique Cars, Dancers and Mounted Horse units.
www.asalutetovetrans.com

April 17-18 Vista Civil War Reenactment - Vista
Location: Antique Gas and Steam Museum, 2040 N Santa Fe Ave. Time: 10AM-5PM each day. Visitors can expect to see real live cannon fire, period costumes, historical figures, authentic battles, meet with the soldiers in their camps, attend demonstrations and more during the two-day festival. Battles will be held twice daily at 12:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. both days. Civil War living history tours will be held throughout the weekend and include demonstrations as well as displays. The museum will also have walking tours of their collections of antique equipment and offer visitors a selection of food and refreshment. http://www.goldcoastfestivals.com/VistaCivWar.html

April 18 Civil War Reenactment - Ft. Tejon. Ft Tejon was an actual Fort during the civil war days. It is between Bakersfield and LA in the Grapevine area on Hwy. 5
Battles are at 10:30AM and 1:00 PM on the 3rd Sunday during the Spring and Summer. Like all events, get there early to get the best images. battles are on the actual old Fort Tejon grounds among some of the old buildings. Bring lunch.

Apr 18 – Orange Plaza Car Show - Orange
16th Annual Car Show in downtown Orange surrounds the circle with beautiful classic cars, More than 400 pre-1975 custom, classic, hot rod and street rods will be on display. There is no admission fee for spectators. Time: 8 am to 3 pm. Location: Chapman and N. Glassell. carshow@orangesunriserotary.org.

Apr 18 - Charity Car Show - Ontario
Hosted by JDRF Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation International. Sunday - 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. This event is open to all: Customs & Classics ~ Muscle Cars ~ Street Rods ~ Rat Rods ~ Trucks ~ Special Interest ~ PT Cruisers ~ Exotics ~ Military ~ Motorcycles and More ~ Trophies ~ Opportunity Drawing, DJ Music. 225 cars last year with 2000 spectators. http://www.jdrfinlandempire.com/charity-car-show.html

April 23-25 Lakeside Rodeo and Parade - Lakeside (San Diego County)
PRCA Rodeo events, food, live music. Lakeside Rodeo Grounds, Hwy 67 and Mapleview.
Rodeo Events at 2 PM each day, gates open at 12:30. www.lakesiderodeo.com

April 24 - Doheny Wood (car show) - Dana Point
Great chance to take pictures of classic Woodies. The 2010 show is scheduled for Saturday, April 24, 2010. The meet will be held at Doheny State Beach beginning at 8 AM and concluding at 3 PM. Doheny State Beach is located in Dana Point Harbor area at 25300 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, CA 92629. The woodie meet will be held at the south end of the park. $10.00 park entry fee, no charge for the show. http://socalwoodies.com/doheny.htm

April 24-25 Fun With Chalk, Street Painting Festival - Mission Viejo
Both Days 10AM-5PM. Artist from all over transform and capture amazing beauty of art using pastel chalk as the medium to blend onto asphalt as their canvases. With each artist's techniques and their enthusiasm for the love of art you can truly experience the metamorphosis around you. Norman P Murry Community Center, 24932 Vetrans Way. www.funwithchalk.org

April 24-25 Renaissance Faire - Escondido, CA
Location Felicita Park, 742 Clarence Lane. Hours 10-6 Daily http://www.goldcoastfestivals.com/EscoGenInfo.html

April 24-25 Cowboy Festival - Santa Clarita
Big yearly event at the Melody Ranch Motion Picture Studio. Tours, street shows, living history performers, buffalo soldiers and lots of music and food. For more information call 661-286-4021 or www.cowboyfestival.org

April 24-25 California Poppy Festival - Lancaster
Hours 10am-6pm, Lots of enteratinment, foot, crafts, etc. Location: Lancaster City park 43011 N 10th Street West. If you go, be sure to go to the Poppy Perserve where the real pictures are. http://www.poppyfestival.com

MAY 2010

May 1 Pasadena Doo Dah Parade - Pasadena
SATURDAY, MAY 1st, Colorado Blvd., in East Pasadena, stepping off at 11:00am. Daring to go where no parade has gone before, this year’s Pasadena Doo Dah Parade will venture eastward for the first time in its colorful history. While the alternative event has enjoyed much popular success in the Old Pasadena retail and entertainment district, organizers are excited to bring the eclectic parade to the town-like setting of East Pasadena. “Old Pasadena has been a terrific backdrop and host for the Doo Dah Parade,” says organizer Tom Coston. “But East Pasadena is an exciting new frontier with its own local character and possibilities. It’ll be a great party for all!” WHERE: Colorado Blvd. (between Sierra Madre and San Gabriel Blvds.)
Pasadena (Start Location: 2627 E. Colorado Blvd. 91107http://www.pasadenadoodahparade.info/

May 1-2 March AFB Air Show -- Rverside
Gates open at 8 AM, close at 6 PM. Free admission and parking.

May 1-2 Renaissance Faire - Escondido, CA
Location Felicita Park, 742 Clarence Lane. Hours 10-6 Daily http://www.goldcoastfestivals.com/EscoGenInfo.html

May 2 American Diabetes Association Tour de Cure 2010 - Long Beach
while this event is designed for cyclists, it sounds like it might be a great chance to get a lot of rider images, especially on the bridges.
The Tour de Cure offers cyclists a once a year opportunity to ride the Gerald Desmond and Vincent Thomas port bridges from Long Beach to Los Angeles. After pausing at our San Pedro Ports O Call rest stop, cyclists choose between a scenic ride to the southern bluffs of Palos Verdes; a metric century, which includes a breath-taking climb to the top of Palos Verdes East; or a relaxing return to the Queen Mary on a harbor cruise that cyclists young and less young will enjoy.
http://tour.diabetes.org/site/TR/TourdeCure/TDC552018030?pg=entry&fr_id=6896

May 8 - National Train Day - Los Angeles
Downtown Union Station, 800 N Alameda St. Come on down to the station and join the celebration in Los Angeles! Don't miss your chance to see model trains, train equipment displays and much more: •The Railroad Braceros Exhibit* •Train Equipment Displays* •Model Train Displays* •AmtraKids Depot Go-Green Express: Eco Exhibit*
•National Park Service Trails & Rails Exhibit* •Snapshot Station •Trains Move our Economy Exhibit* •Amtrak: Dining the Rail Way* exhibit and culinary demonstrations, featuring Chef Marcel Lagnaz •Amtrak Brand Display - Enjoy the journey®* •Amtrak California: A Winning Partnership* •Live performances by the USC Trojan Marching Band and Playhouse Disney's Choo-Choo Soul with Genevieve! http://www.nationaltrainday.com/events/la/

May 8 - June 20 Weekends. Koroneburg Old World Festival - Corona
This is my favorite renaissance fair located at Riverview Park, off River Road. They have permanent buildings that make great backdrops, lots of shade, flat walking area. This is a smaller event than the one in Irwindale. I think this makes for better images. Lots of entertainment. Meet hundreds of family members living, working & playing in Southern California’s only permanent Renaissance Village! Visitors to this 1450-1600 European Village are entertained, discover fine arts and crafts, and enjoy delectable food and beverages. The setting is the fictitious estate of the Baron Heinrich Von Lauffer, located along the Rhine river (aka Santa Ana River) between Mainz and Strasbourg. Each year the Baron invites the finest minds and most talented actors to celebrate the coming of spring at his Barony of Koroneburg. The festival celebrates the inventions and changes of the renaissance period. Time: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturdays & 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sundays. Location: Crossroads Riverview Park 14600 River Rd, Corona, CA 92880. Cost: $18 Adult; $15 Child 5-11 or Senior 62+; $12 Military with valid ID; Children under 5 Free.
www.renaissanceinfo.com/riverview

May 15 Moonridge Zoo Photographers Day and Photo Contest - Big Bear
This small zoo in the mountains has a photo day and contest to get pictures for their calender. Susan and I had 4 images in the 2009 Calender. View at the website. Photo Day is 10AM-4PM. Special photo ops with some of the animals. www.moonridgezoo.org

May 15-16 Battle of Costa Mesa - Costa Mesa
Civil War Reeanactment at Fairview Park, Hours 9am-5PM with battles at 11am and 2 pm. This annual event sponsered by AMVETS.

May 15-16 Planes of Fame Airshow - Chino Airport
Great airshow with lots vintage planes. Warbirds from all over the US come to Chino for this event. The theme of Airshow 2010 is “A Salute To The Greatest Generation.” This year, the Museum will fly its aircraft to honor the men and women whose service and sacrifice during World War II has caused them to become known as the “Greatest Generation.” http://www.planesoffame.org/airshow2010.php

May 15-16 Western Days - Temecula
Weekend annual mock gunfights, activities, vendors, and entertainment in the streets of Old Town. Saturday will feature a Western and Historical art competition and art show presented by the Temecula Valley Art League. Join the cast from the Temecula Gunfighters, numerous visiting gun fighting clubs, and other Old West costumed characters as they perform humorous skits and the high noon shoot out and robbery at The Bank. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. cityoftemecula.org

May 15-16 - Annual Muckenthaler Motorcar Festival - Fullerton
Muckenthaler Cultural Center, 1201 W. Malvern, Fullerton. A One-of-a-kind Automotive Cultural Event, this oldest and grandest car show in North Orange County hosts Hot Rods and a Concours d'Elegance with the true classics of the automotive industry spread out over 8 acres of lawns.

May 15-16 All Nations Pow Wow - Acton, CA
Billed as a traditional pow wow. 9:30AM - 7PM each day. KOA Campground, 7601 Soledad Canyon Rd. Acton is on HwY 14 near Lancaster.

May 16 Civil War Reeanactment - Ft. Tejon
Another of the monthly civil war reeanactments held at this real fort on the Grapevine just off Interstate 5. Battles at 10:30am and 1 pm. Walk through the camps between battles. Bring Lunch.

May 16 50th Topanga Banjo and Fiddle Contest - Aguroa Hills
Location: Paramount Ranch, Cornell Rd. Agoura Hills. 4 stages {for the contest stage you will want to bring blankets or LOW BACK chairs.} There is jamming throughout the park, every where you look there are folks meeting up to play,
clogging and square dancing too. 9am - 6 pm, $15.00/$10.00 seniors at the gate, early ticket sales discounts. http://www.topangabanjofiddle.org

May 22-23 Ojai Renaissance and Pirate Faire - Ojai at Lake Casitas
Near Ventura, great rolling hill and Lake location, 10AM-6PM
http://www.goldcoastfestivals.com/ojairen/renpg1.html

May 25-30 Mule Days Celebration - Bishop, CA.
Every year during the Memorial Day Weekend, more than 700 mules compete in 181 events at the Bishop Mule Days Celebration. There is no way to actually describe Mule Days. It is part mule show, part test of skills, and part Wild West show.
Situated on the Tri-County Fairgrounds in Bishop, California, Mule Days has become an international world class event. Crowds have grown from 200 to more than 30,000 fans! The longest running non-motorized parade on Saturday morning, Steer roping and penning, an event normally reserved for quarter horses, and the Packer's Scramble – the wildest, noisiest and funniest event of the weekend. http://www.muledays.org/

JUNE 2010

June 5 Santa Maria Elks Rodeo and Parade. - Santa Maria
67th Annual rodeo and parade lineup features a mini rodeo and PBR performance on June 3, followed by rodeo performances on June 4, 5 and 6. Opens at 9 AM, Horse race, the famous mutton bustin’, Pro Rodeo Cowboy Association events, including bull riding, bronc riding, calf roping, steer wrestling, bareback riding, barrel racing, local team roping and specialty acts. The rodeo parade, featuring marching bands, beautiful floats, show horses and more will be held on June 5 along South Broadway from Mill to Enos. Location: Elks Unocal Event Center 4040 Highway 101 at Santa Maria Way Santa Maria CA. Call: (805) 922-6006 www.santamariaelks.com

June 12 - Optimist Car Show - Redlands
Time: June 12, 2010 from 7am to 3pm Location: Sylvan Park, Redlands. http://www.redlandsoptimistclub.org/

June 19-20 - Surf 24 - Huntington Beach
24 hour surfing competition features surf celebrities, actor Ed Begley, Jr.,Celebrity surfers include Sam Trammel (True Blood), Dylan Bruno (Numb3rs), Jesse Spencer (House), Sean Patrick Flanery (Boondock Saints), Chad Lowe (24), Michael Munoz (Amazing Race), Eric Balfour (24), Brandon Boyd (Incubus), David Chokachi (Beyond the Break), Gregory Harrison (Trapper John, MD), Chris Bruno (Dead Zone) and Kathy Zuckerman (Gidget).
Time: 11 a.m. to Sunday, June 20 at Noon. Event includes surfing, vendors, a breakfast, silent auction, speeches, etc. Location: South side of Huntington Beach Pier, Huntington Beach, CA. Registration for surfing event: projectsaveoursurf.org or call 424-781-0865.

June 27 Firefighters Benefit Car Show - Rancho Cucamonga
13th Annual Rancho Cucamonga Firefighters Benefit Car Show on Sunday, June 27, 2010 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Red Hill Community Park, 7484 Vineyard. Enjoy beautifully restored classic cars, opportunity drawings and Oldies music in this lakeside park setting. Public admission is free so bring the kids, family and pets to check out this event in support of local burn survivors. Money raised will benefit the Firefighters Quest for Burn Survivors and the Burn Institute-Inland Empire.

JULY 2010

July 10 Lotus Festival - Los Angeles
2-day Asian/Pacific Islander event which provides entertainment, foods, arts, crafts, children's entertainment, dragon boat racing, health & community information. 75,000 attendees expected. At Echo Park Lake, 751 Echo Park Ave. Starts at 10AM. If you are not into the festival, this is the time of the Lotus blooms that make great pictures. You might want to go here on another day just to photograph the blooms.

July 10-11 Old Fort MacArthur Days - San Pedro
Location fort MacArthur Museum, Angel State Park, 3601 South Gaffey. Big Event with reeanactments from Civil War to WWII. Hours 10am-4pm. http://fortmacarthur.tripod.com/

July 24 Cruise Aboard the Lane Victory, WWII Ship - San Pedro
The Lane Victory is a WWII Merchant Marine Ship built in 1945 and docked at San Pedro. Normally a museum, it sails out to Catalina Island and back several times a year. This is the first cruise of the year. I did this cruise last year and had a blast. Lunch is served along with drinks. WWII entertainment and reeanactors on board, German spy is captured and the ship will be attacked by WWII German aircraft on the way back and saved by the US planes. Lots to photograph and a fun day. Located at Pier 94 in San Pedro. LA Fire Boats greet the ship on the way into port--blowing water. http://www.lanevictory.org

July 31- Aug 1 Long Beach Civil War Reeanactment - Long Beach
Location: El Dorado park, 7550 E Spring St., Hours 10am-5pm. $10.00 adults/$8.00 Seniors. http://www.beachcalifornia.com/california/civil-war-reenact-events.html

July 31 - Hurley US Open of Surfing - Huntington Beach
8am-5pm After a record-breaking 2009 event, the Hurley US Open of Surfing is back in Huntington Beach. In addition to great surfing, you’ll find the Hurley Walk the Walk Fashion Show, a 14-acre Festival Village that allows attendees to sample products and services from the action sports industry, a BMX and skateboard competition and more. Admission to all events is free, so don’t miss out on this exciting, action-packed beach festival!

AUGUST 2010

July 31-Aug. 8 - US Open of Surfing - Huntington Beach
Welcome you sand lovers! US Open of Surfing & Beach Games isn't just surfing. It's music, sand, limbo, spray on tattoos, freebies, cute guy & girl poster signings and a whole lotta xtreme sports. http://www.usopenofsurfing.com

Aug 28-29 Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo - San Juan Capistrano
The rodeo will take place at the Oaks Blenheim Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park, located at the intersection of Ortega Highway and Antonio Parkway/La Pata on the western border of the Rancho Mission Viejo in South Orange County.
The Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo is good old entertainment for the entire family, not to mention the richest 2-day rodeo in the nation with a purse totaling over $200,000. The top 30 rodeo contestants in saddle bronc and bareback riding, tie-down roping, steer wrestling, bull riding and team roping will come to San Juan Capistrano for this chance of a lifetime. Gates open at 2PM Sat, rodeo starts at 4PM and gates open at 11:30 AM on Sunday, rodeo starts at 1:30 PM. While I have not photographed at this rodeo, I have heard it is a good one. http://www.rmvrodeo.com

SEPTEMBER 2010

Sept. 4-5 Civil War Re-Enactment - Huntington Beach
Where: Huntington Central Park 18000 Goldenwest St. Visit and tour large scale Confederate and Union encampments as more than 200 re-enactors stage famous battles of the Civil War. The two-day event includes live canon and weapon demonstrations, actors in full costume, food vendors and a Civil War-era band. On Saturday the first battle will be at 1:30 p.m. and the second at 4 p.m. Sunday features a church service at 9 a.m. then a battle at 11 a.m. and another one at 2 p.m.

Sept. 11-13 - Tall Ships Festival - Dana Point Harbor
The largest annual gathering of tallships on the West Coast, this festival features a spectacular array of family-fun activities including live music, art shows and a variety of tasty food. Interactive living-history encampments including blacksmiths, scrimshaw artists, and the infamous Port Royal Privateers are sure to entertain and amaze guests of all ages and are not to be missed. Additionally, you can explore the historic tallships and listen to the crew share tails of adventure and life at sea. The festival begins on Friday evening as the tall ships parade into Dana Point Harbor. On the weekend, visitors can enjoy maritime displays and demonstrations, music concerts, Polynesian dancing, pirates, and dramatic sunset cannon battles. Visitors can also explore the historic tall ships and listen to the crew share tales of adventure and life at sea. Inside the Ocean Institute guests can experience live parrot shows, pirate games, music, wood carving, ship models and special presentations. Join us for a weekend of fun and adventure as we celebrate the area's rich maritime history. Participating tall ships typically include the brig Pilgrim, Spirit of Dana Point, Californian, Curlew, Exy Johnson, Irving Johnson, and the American Pride. Visiting ships are subject to change. For complete information about the festival visit www.tallshipsfestival.com.

OCTOBER 2010

Oct 2-3 San Dimas Rodeo - San Dimas
Will be held Saturday October 2nd and Sunday October 3rd, 2010. The gates will open at 11:00. AM Events Begin At 1:00 PM at the Tex Shoemaker Rodeo Arena at Horsethief Canyon Park. http://sandimasrodeo.com

MARCH 2010 Photo Opps

2010-02-27T18:42:00.000-08:00

Till April - Butterfly Exhibit -Living Desert Museum - Palm Springs
Fanciful Fliers is a 3,000 square foot walk-through exhibit filled with hundreds of fluttering butterflies and a dozen zippy hummingbirds within the setting of a tranquil garden. The thirty or so possible species of butterflies in the garden are all from North America, many from our Desert Southwest. They are as colorful as their names; Painted Lady, Tiger Swallowtail, Orange-barred Sulphur, Luna Moth and Zebra Longwing. The hummingbirds are all from the Desert Southwest and include the Anna�s, Costa�s, Black-chinned, Rufous and Broad-billed Hummingbirds. If you position yourself between the bird and the sun, you will be amazed at the iridescent colors of the male�s gorget. The garden includes over 60 species of butterfly and hummingbird friendly plants, many of which are in bloom. The exhibit is open from early October through the end of April, 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily. http://www.livingdesert.org/fanciful_flyers_butterfly_hummingbird_exhibit.html

March 6-7 Vista Civil War Reenactment - Vista RAINED OUT--SEE LISTING FOR APRIL 17-18.
Location: Antique Gas and Steam Museum, 2040 N Santa Fe Ave. Time: 10AM-5PM each day. Visitors can expect to see real live cannon fire, period costumes, historical figures, authentic battles, meet with the soldiers in their camps, attend demonstrations and more during the two-day festival. Battles will be held twice daily at 12:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. both days. Civil War living history tours will be held throughout the weekend and include demonstrations as well as displays. The museum will also have walking tours of their collections of antique equipment and offer visitors a selection of food and refreshment. http://www.goldcoastfestivals.com/VistaCivWar.html

March 6-7 Los Angeles County Irish Festival - Pomona Fairplex
Hours 10-6, 1101 W. McKinley. Lots of Irish events, food and drink.

March 7 Del Mar Kiwanis Ugly Dog Contest - Del Mar Fairgrounds.
Contest has branched out from just plain ugly dogs to 14 categories including Best Mutt and Dog Who Most Looks Like Its Owner. Paddock Green at Del Mar. www.uglydogcontest.com

March 7 - Acton Rangers Gymkhana (Barrel Raceing on Horseback) - Acton, CA
2 Miles South of Hwy 14, exit Crown valley, Welcome one and all to the beautiful Acton Ranger Arena! Gymkhanas are held on the first Sunday of every month starting in March and ending in October. The arena is located at Smith St and 2nd St next to the Acton Community Hall in Acton, CA. Sign-ups begin at 7:30 AM. Warm-ups are from 8:30 to 9:00 AM and the first event starts promptly at 9:00 AM. http://www.actonrangersgymkhana.com

March 12-14 Palm Springs Wild West Fest and Rodeo - Palm Springs
PRCA Rodeo Events, music festival, rodeo parade, food and chili cookoff. East Lawn of Palm Springs Convention Center. Rodeo 277 N. Avenida Caballeros. Rodeo Time, Friday 6PM, Sat and Sun. 2 PM. www.palmspringswestfest.com

March 13 El Centro Air Show - El Centro Navel Air Facility
Many photography hobbyist and several professional photographers take advantage of the Naval Air Facility El Centro Air Show to get some spectacular photographs. Visitors to the Air Show are welcome and encouraged to take photographs of the event. Gates open at 8AM. See the website for more info and lots of pictures of past shows. http://www.elcentroairshow.com

March 13-14 Annual CSU Long Beach Pow Wow - Long beach
Admission is Free, Parking $4.00, event in the central quad.
dancing, Arts, Crafts and Food, starts at 11:00 each day with Gord dancing.

March 20-21 Civil War Reenactment - Anaheim. This event is held at St. Catherin's Military School, 215 N. Harbor Blvd. It's not as big as some but a lot of the students in military uniforms can make for great pictures. You are allowed to go in the camps between battles. Watch out for some of the buildings outside the campus that might get in your image. Hours 9AM- 3 PM. Parking is on the streets. $7.00 for adults. http://www.stcatherinesmilitaryacademy.org/events/civilwar.aspx

March 20 People's Day at La Purisma Mission - Lompoc
It's 1822 at the mission as costumed docents and staff portray life of the mission during that era. Time: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Location: Highway 246 near Lompoc. www.lapurisimamission.org

March 20-21 Palm Springs Old World Renaissance Festival - Palm Springs Sixteenth century living history village features costumed street performers, interactive encampments, stage plays, music, food and drink, and artisan wares. Francis Stevens Park 951-735-0101 .

March 21 Hurst Car Show - Chatsworth
Hurst Car Show. 3rd Annual Car Show open to all American made cars (street rods, hot rods, rat rods, muscle cars, etc.) Spectators get in FREE! Time: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Co Event will be held at 9142 Independence Ave, Chatsworth, Ca 91311. Call: :(818) 882-6422 . bmracing.com or hurst-shifters.com

March 27 Riverside Airshow - Riverside
This one-day show attracts 70,000 spectators from Riverside and the Inland Empire to see the most exciting aerial performers in the airshow business today. With more than 200 acres of aircraft displays, fun for the kids, food and refreshments, helicopter displays and community group exhibits your family will be thrilled to be part of this very unique entertainment opportunity. And the best part is the admission is FREE! They charge for parking. 9am-4pm Riverside Airport, 6951 Flight Road. http://www.riversideairshow.com

March 27-April 18 Butterflys at Wild Animal Park - Escondido
Every Spring the Wild Animal Park has a small Butterfly House, Butterfly Jungle. Get there when the park opens, by lunch the lines are a mile long. Good selection but very small. http://www.sandiegozoo.org/butterflyjungle

April 11-Sept. 6Butterflys at LA Natural History Museum - Los Angeles
Opens to the public on April 11th, Pavilion of Wings. More than 40 different butterfly and moth species and an array of plants take up residence every summer for our much-anticipated seasonal exhibit, the Pavilion of Wings. Wander through a unique changing and growing ecosystem. Witness wondrous free-flying creatures interacting with plant life and with each other and emerge with a better understanding of the environment needed for the survival of these spectacular animals. Los Angeles Natural History Museum, 900 Exposition Park, 9:30 AM- 5 PM. http://www.nhm.org/site/explore-exhibits/special-exhibits/pavilion-of-wings

April 9-11 Del Mar Nationals - (car show) Del Mar Fairgrounds
More than 2,000 hot rods, customs, classics, muscle cars and trick trucks. Hours 8-5 Friday and Saturday, Sunday 8-3. www.delmarnationals.com

April 10 Bakersfield Highland Gathering and Games Bakersfield
Scottish atheletics, Celtic Music, pipes and drume, dancers, food and dring, vendors, kid's games at the Kern County Fairgrounds. www.kernscot.com 661-753-3306

April 10-11 Civil War Reenactment - Prado Park - Chino. Prado Park is off Euclid, south of Chino. This is my favorite civil war reenactment. It is big, covers a lot of land and the battles are in a large field of rolling hills. Not much in the background to get in your way. Large camps with lots to shoot, lots of vendors. www.sccwa.com/pradornactrflr10.pdf

April 10-11 Irvine Lake Mud Run - Irvine
Santiago Canyon Road, $5.00 Parking. This is a foot race with an obstacle course with mud pits. The Irvine Lake Mud Run is an approximate +5k course beginning and ending at picturesque Irvine Lake. The course is partially on the road and partially on trails and includes hills, water (no contact with lake anywhere), professionally built obstacles and "eight+" mud pits. May be interesting to photograph. http://www.irvinelakemudrun.com

April 10 - May 23 Weekends - Renaissance Pleasure Fair - Irwindale
This is the largest of the Renaissance Fairs, located at the Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area, 15501 E. Arrow Hwy. Hours 10 AM - 7 PM. www.renfair.com/socal

April 11 Festival 0f Dancing Colors - Eastern Dance - San Bernardino. At Cal State San Bernardino, Santos Manuel Student Union, 55500 University Parkway. All types of Eastern Dance and belly dancing. $5.00, hours 1pm-5pm.

April 17-18 Vista Civil War Reenactment - Vista
Location: Antique Gas and Steam Museum, 2040 N Santa Fe Ave. Time: 10AM-5PM each day. Visitors can expect to see real live cannon fire, period costumes, historical figures, authentic battles, meet with the soldiers in their camps, attend demonstrations and more during the two-day festival. Battles will be held twice daily at 12:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. both days. Civil War living history tours will be held throughout the weekend and include demonstrations as well as displays. The museum will also have walking tours of their collections of antique equipment and offer visitors a selection of food and refreshment. http://www.goldcoastfestivals.com/VistaCivWar.html

April 18 Civil War Reenactment - Ft. Tejon. Ft Tejon was an actual Fort during the civil war days. It is between Bakersfield and LA in the Grapevine area on Hwy. 5
Battles are at 10:30AM and 1:00 PM on the 3rd Sunday during the Spring and Summer. Like all events, get there early to get the best images. battles are on the actual old Fort Tejon grounds among some of the old buildings. Bring lunch.

April 23-25 Lakeside Rodeo and Parade - Lakeside (San Diego County)
PRCA Rodeo events, food, live music. Lakeside Rodeo Grounds, Hwy 67 and Mapleview.
Rodeo Events at 2 PM each day, gates open at 12:30. www.lakesiderodeo.com

April 24-25 Fun With Chalk, Street Painting Festival - Mission Viejo
Both Days 10AM-5PM. Artist from all over transform and capture amazing beauty of art using pastel chalk as the medium to blend onto asphalt as their canvases. With each artist's techniques and their enthusiasm for the love of art you can truly experience the metamorphosis around you. Norman P Murry Community Center, 24932 Vetrans Way. www.funwithchalk.org

April 24-25 Renaissance Faire - Escondido, CA
Location Felicita Park, 742 Clarence Lane. Hours 10-6 Daily http://www.goldcoastfestivals.com/EscoGenInfo.html

April 24-25 Cowboy Festival - Santa Clarita
Big yearly event at the Melody Ranch Motion Picture Studio. Tours, street shows, living history performers, buffalo soldiers and lots of music and food. For more information call 661-286-4021 or www.cowboyfestival.org

April 24-25 California Poppy Festival - Lancaster
Hours 10am-6pm, Lots of enteratinment, foot, crafts, etc. Location: Lancaster City park 43011 N 10th Street West. If you go, be sure to go to the Poppy Perserve where the real pictures are. http://www.poppyfestival.com

May 1-2 Renaissance Faire - Escondido, CA
Location Felicita Park, 742 Clarence Lane. Hours 10-6 Daily http://www.goldcoastfestivals.com/EscoGenInfo.html

May 2 American Diabetes Association Tour de Cure 2010 - Long Beach
while this event is designed for cyclists, it sounds like it might be a great chance to get a lot of rider images, especially on the bridges.
The Tour de Cure offers cyclists a once a year opportunity to ride the Gerald Desmond and Vincent Thomas port bridges from Long Beach to Los Angeles. After pausing at our San Pedro Ports O Call rest stop, cyclists choose between a scenic ride to the southern bluffs of Palos Verdes; a metric century, which includes a breath-taking climb to the top of Palos Verdes East; or a relaxing return to the Queen Mary on a harbor cruise that cyclists young and less young will enjoy.
http://tour.diabetes.org/site/TR/TourdeCure/TDC552018030?pg=entry&fr_id=6896

May 8 - June 20 Weekends. Koroneburg Old World Festival - Corona
This is my favorite renaissance fair located at Riverview Park, off River Road. They have permanent buildings that make great backdrops, lots of shade, flat walking area. This is a smaller event than the one in Irwindale. I think this makes for better images. Lots of entertainment. www.renaissanceinfo.com/riverview

May 15 Moonridge Zoo Photographers Day and Photo Contest - Big Bear
This small zoo in the mountains has a photo day and contest to get pictures for their calender. Susan and I had 4 images in the 2009 Calender. View at the website. Photo Day is 10AM-4PM. Special photo ops with some of the animals. www.moonridgezoo.org

May 15-16 Battle of Costa Mesa - Costa Mesa
Civil War Reeanactment at Fairview Park, Hours 9am-5PM with battles at 11am and 2 pm. This annual event sponsered by AMVETS.

May 15-16 Planes of Fame Airshow - Chino Airport
Great airshow with lots vintage planes. Warbirds from all over the US come to Chino for this event. The theme of Airshow 2010 is “A Salute To The Greatest Generation.” This year, the Museum will fly its aircraft to honor the men and women whose service and sacrifice during World War II has caused them to become known as the “Greatest Generation.” http://www.planesoffame.org/airshow2010.php

May 15-16 All Nations Pow Wow - Acton, CA
Billed as a traditional pow wow. 9:30AM - 7PM each day. KOA Campground, 7601 Soledad Canyon Rd. Acton is on HwY 14 near Lancaster.

May 16 Civil War Reeanactment - Ft. Tejon
Another of the monthly civil war reeanactments held at this real fort on the Grapevine just off Interstate 5. Battles at 10:30am and 1 pm. Walk through the camps between battles. Bring Lunch.

May 16 50th Topanga Banjo and Fiddle Contest - Aguroa Hills
Location: Paramount Ranch, Cornell Rd. Agoura Hills. 4 stages {for the contest stage you will want to bring blankets or LOW BACK chairs.} There is jamming throughout the park, every where you look there are folks meeting up to play,
clogging and square dancing too. 9am - 6 pm, $15.00/$10.00 seniors at the gate, early ticket sales discounts. http://www.topangabanjofiddle.org

May 22-23 Ojai Renaissance and Pirate Faire - Ojai at Lake Casitas
Near Ventura, great rolling hill and Lake location, 10AM-6PM
http://www.goldcoastfestivals.com/ojairen/renpg1.html

May 25-30 Mule Days Celebration - Bishop, CA.
Every year during the Memorial Day Weekend, more than 700 mules compete in 181 events at the Bishop Mule Days Celebration. There is no way to actually describe Mule Days. It is part mule show, part test of skills, and part Wild West show.
Situated on the Tri-County Fairgrounds in Bishop, California, Mule Days has become an international world class event. Crowds have grown from 200 to more than 30,000 fans! The longest running non-motorized parade on Saturday morning, Steer roping and penning, an event normally reserved for quarter horses, and the Packer's Scramble – the wildest, noisiest and funniest event of the weekend. http://www.muledays.org/

July 10 Lotus Festival - Los Angeles
2-day Asian/Pacific Islander event which provides entertainment, foods, arts, crafts, children's entertainment, dragon boat racing, health & community information. 75,000 attendees expected. At Echo Park Lake, 751 Echo Park Ave. Starts at 10AM. If you are not into the festival, this is the time of the Lotus blooms that make great pictures. You might want to go here on another day just to photograph the blooms.

July 10-11 Old Fort MacArthur Days - San Pedro
Location fort MacArthur Museum, Angel State Park, 3601 South Gaffey. Big Event with reeanactments from Civil War to WWII. Hours 10am-4pm. http://fortmacarthur.tripod.com/

July 24 Cruise Aboard the Lane Victory, WWII Ship - San Pedro
The Lane Victory is a WWII Merchant Marine Ship built in 1945 and docked at San Pedro. Normally a museum, it sails out to Catalina Island and back several times a year. This is the first cruise of the year. I did this cruise last year and had a blast. Lunch is served along with drinks. WWII entertainment and reeanactors on board, German spy is captured and the ship will be attacked by WWII German aircraft on the way back and saved by the US planes. Lots to photograph and a fun day. Located at Pier 94 in San Pedro. LA Fire Boats greet the ship on the way into port--blowing water. http://www.lanevictory.org

July 31- Aug 1 Long Beach Civil War Reeanactment - Long Beach
Location: El Dorado park, 7550 E Spring St., Hours 10am-5pm. $10.00 adults/$8.00 Seniors. http://www.beachcalifornia.com/california/civil-war-reenact-events.html

Aug 28-29 Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo - San Juan Capistrano
The rodeo will take place at the Oaks Blenheim Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park, located at the intersection of Ortega Highway and Antonio Parkway/La Pata on the western border of the Rancho Mission Viejo in South Orange County.
The Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo is good old entertainment for the entire family, not to mention the richest 2-day rodeo in the nation with a purse totaling over $200,000. The top 30 rodeo contestants in saddle bronc and bareback riding, tie-down roping, steer wrestling, bull riding and team roping will come to San Juan Capistrano for this chance of a lifetime. Gates open at 2PM Sat, rodeo starts at 4PM and gates open at 11:30 AM on Sunday, rodeo starts at 1:30 PM. While I have not photographed at this rodeo, I have heard it is a good one. http://www.rmvrodeo.com

Oct 2-3 San Dimas Rodeo - San Dimas
Will be held Saturday October 2nd and Sunday October 3rd, 2010. The gates will open at 11:00. AM Events Begin At 1:00 PM at the Tex Shoemaker Rodeo Arena at Horsethief Canyon Park. http://sandimasrodeo.com

Feb 2010 SoCal Photo Opps

2010-01-31T19:07:00.000-08:00

This is the first blog showing upcoming events that may be photogenic and allow you to get some great new images. If you know of events that you would like to share with other SoCal photographers, Email them to me at Larrysphoto@att.net

Till April - Butterfly Exhibit -Living Desert Museum - Palm Springs
Fanciful Fliers is a 3,000 square foot walk-through exhibit filled with hundreds of fluttering butterflies and a dozen zippy hummingbirds within the setting of a tranquil garden. The thirty or so possible species of butterflies in the garden are all from North America, many from our Desert Southwest. They are as colorful as their names; Painted Lady, Tiger Swallowtail, Orange-barred Sulphur, Luna Moth and Zebra Longwing. The hummingbirds are all from the Desert Southwest and include the Anna�s, Costa�s, Black-chinned, Rufous and Broad-billed Hummingbirds. If you position yourself between the bird and the sun, you will be amazed at the iridescent colors of the male�s gorget. The garden includes over 60 species of butterfly and hummingbird friendly plants, many of which are in bloom. The exhibit is open from early October through the end of April, 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily. http://www.livingdesert.org/fanciful_flyers_butterfly_hummingbird_exhibit.html

Feb 6th and Feb 13th. Saturday Sunrise Car Cruisers - Huntington Beach
Billed as the Best Free Car Show in the World, this Saturday morning event has been a tradition for more than 20 years. Classic auto owners known as the Donut Derelicts meet at the parking lot on the corner of Magnolia and Adams near Adams Avenue Donuts to share stories and admire their classic beauties. 6am to 9am.

Feb 13-14 The 2009-2010 Western Surfing Association Gatorade Championship will be in Huntington Beach this weekend Feb.13 & 14. This event will be at Goldenwest Street & PCH - 2 miles north of Huntington pier (toward Bolsa Chica State Beach). The contest will begin Saturday at 7:00am for men and women over 18 years and Sunday for those under 18 years. Bring your longest lens and chair would be nice. Visit
http://www.surfwsa.org/ for additional information.

Feb 13-14 Queen Mary Scottish Festival - Long Beach
Piping and dancing competitions, Highland games, sheep herding demonstrations, parades, entertainment. www.queenmary.com

Feb. 14 Wings and Wheels - Chino Airport
This is a new event, an airplane and car show. Over 50 vintage cars on display, 9AM to 2PM. DJ on site for entertainment. 1900 Aviation Drive, Chino, CA

Feb. 14-15 Civil War Reenactment - Calico. This is a great event in the old Calico Ghost Town just north of Barstow off Hwy 15. Battles at 11:45 AM and 2:30 PM but for best pictures get there early when they open which I believe is 10 AM. You can walk into the camps between battles and the old town gives you different backdrops than most such reenactments. www.calicotown.com/events/civilwar

Feb. 20-21 Golden Dragon Parade and Lunar New Year Festival - Los Angeles
Chinatown ushers in the Year of the Tiger with parade and festival. 10-5 at Broadway and Hill Streets. www.lagoldendragonparade.com

Feb. 27-28 Desert Classic Concours D'Elegance - La Quinta, CA
This Classic car show is in the Palm Springs area. Over 150 cars on display at the La Qunita Resort. www.desertcouncours.com

March 6-7 Vista Civil War Reenactment - Vista
Location: Antique Gas and Steam Museum, 2040 N Santa Fe Ave. Time: 10AM-5PM each day. Visitors can expect to see real live cannon fire, period costumes, historical figures, authentic battles, meet with the soldiers in their camps, attend demonstrations and more during the two-day festival. Battles will be held twice daily at 12:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. both days. Civil War living history tours will be held throughout the weekend and include demonstrations as well as displays. The museum will also have walking tours of their collections of antique equipment and offer visitors a selection of food and refreshment. http://www.goldcoastfestivals.com/VistaCivWar.html

March 6-7 Los Angeles County Irish Festival - Pomona Fairplex
Hours 10-6, 1101 W. McKinley. Lots of Irish events, food and drink.

March 7 Del Mar Kiwanis Ugly Dog Contest - Del Mar Fairgrounds.
Contest has branched out from just plain ugly dogs to 14 categories including Best Mutt and Dog Who Most Looks Like Its Owner. Paddock Green at Del Mar. www.uglydogcontest.com

March 7 - Acton Rangers Gymkhana (Barrel Raceing on Horseback) - Acton, CA
2 Miles South of Hwy 14, exit Crown valley, Welcome one and all to the beautiful Acton Ranger Arena! Gymkhanas are held on the first Sunday of every month starting in March and ending in October. The arena is located at Smith St and 2nd St next to the Acton Community Hall in Acton, CA. Sign-ups begin at 7:30 AM. Warm-ups are from 8:30 to 9:00 AM and the first event starts promptly at 9:00 AM. http://www.actonrangersgymkhana.com

March 12-14 Palm Springs Wild West Fest and Rodeo - Palm Springs
PRCA Rodeo Events, music festival, rodeo parade, food and chili cookoff. East Lawn of Palm Springs Convention Center. Rodeo 277 N. Avenida Caballeros. Rodeo Time, Friday 6PM, Sat and Sun. 2 PM. www.palmspringswestfest.com

March 13 El Centro Air Show - El Centro Navel Air Facility
Many photography hobbyist and several professional photographers take advantage of the Naval Air Facility El Centro Air Show to get some spectacular photographs. Visitors to the Air Show are welcome and encouraged to take photographs of the event. Gates open at 8AM. See the website for more info and lots of pictures of past shows. http://www.elcentroairshow.com

March 13-14 Annual CSU Long Beach Pow Wow - Long beach
Admission is Free, Parking $4.00, event in the central quad.
dancing, Arts, Crafts and Food, starts at 11:00 each day with Gord dancing.

March 20 Civil War Reenactment - Anaheim. This event is held at St. Catherin's Military School, 215 N. Harbor Blvd. It's not as big as some but a lot of the students in military uniforms can make for great pictures. You are allowed to go in the camps between battles. Watch out for some of the buildings outside the campus that might get in your image. Parking is on the streets.

March 20 People's Day at La Purisma Mission - Lompoc
It's 1822 at the mission as costumed docents and staff portray life of the mission during that era. Time: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Location: Highway 246 near Lompoc. www.lapurisimamission.org

March 20-21 Palm Springs Old World Renaissance Festival - Palm Springs Sixteenth century living history village features costumed street performers, interactive encampments, stage plays, music, food and drink, and artisan wares. Francis Stevens Park 951-735-0101.

March 21 Hurst Car Show - Chatsworth
Hurst Car Show. 3rd Annual Car Show open to all American made cars (street rods, hot rods, rat rods, muscle cars, etc.) Spectators get in FREE! Time: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Co Event will be held at 9142 Independence Ave, Chatsworth, Ca 91311. Call: :(818) 882-6422. bmracing.com or hurst-shifters.com

March 27 Riverside Airshow - Riverside
This one-day show attracts 70,000 spectators from Riverside and the Inland Empire to see the most exciting aerial performers in the airshow business today. With more than 200 acres of aircraft displays, fun for the kids, food and refreshments, helicopter displays and community group exhibits your family will be thrilled to be part of this very unique entertainment opportunity. And the best part is the admission is FREE! They charge for parking. 9am-4pm Riverside Airport, 6951 Flight Road. http://www.riversideairshow.com

March 27-April 18 Butterflys at Wild Animal Park - Escondido
Every Spring the Wild Animal Park has a small Butterfly House, Butterfly Jungle. Get there when the park opens, by lunch the lines are a mile long. Good selection but very small. http://www.sandiegozoo.org/butterflyjungle

April Butterflys at LA Natural History Museum - Los Angeles
Opening in April, Pavilion of Wings. More than 40 different butterfly and moth species and an array of plants take up residence every summer for our much-anticipated seasonal exhibit, the Pavilion of Wings. Wander through a unique changing and growing ecosystem. Witness wondrous free-flying creatures interacting with plant life and with each other and emerge with a better understanding of the environment needed for the survival of these spectacular animals. Los Angeles Natural History Museum, 900 Exposition Park, 9:30 AM- 5 PM. http://www.nhm.org/site/explore-exhibits/special-exhibits/pavilion-of-wings

April 9-11 Del Mar Nationals - (car show) Del Mar Fairgrounds
More than 2,000 hot rods, customs, classics, muscle cars and trick trucks. Hours 8-5 Friday and Saturday, Sunday 8-3. www.delmarnationals.com

April 10 Bakersfield Highland Gathering and Games Bakersfield
Scottish atheletics, Celtic Music, pipes and drume, dancers, food and dring, vendors, kid's games at the Kern County Fairgrounds. www.kernscot.com 661-753-3306

April 10-11 Civil War Reenactment - Prado Park - Chino. Prado Park is off Euclid, south of Chino. This is my favorite civil war reenactment. It is big, covers a lot of land and the battles are in a large field of rolling hills. Not much in the background to get in your way. Large camps with lots to shoot, lots of vendors. www.sccwa.com/pradornactrflr10.pdf

April 10 - May 23 Weekends - Renaissance Pleasure Fair - Irwindale
This is the largest of the Renaissance Fairs, located at the Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area, 15501 E. Arrow Hwy. Hours 10 AM - 7 PM. www.renfair.com/socal

April 18 Civil War Reenactment - Ft. Tejon. Ft Tejon was an actual Fort during the civil war days. It is between Bakersfield and LA in the Grapevine area on Hwy. 5
Battles are at 10:30AM and 1:00 PM on the 3rd Sunday during the Spring and Summer. Like all events, get there early to get the best images. battles are on the actual old Fort Tejon grounds among some of the old buildings. Bring lunch.

April 23-25 Lakeside Rodeo and Parade - Lakeside (San Diego County)
PRCA Rodeo events, food, live music. Lakeside Rodeo Grounds, Hwy 67 and Mapleview.
Rodeo Events at 2 PM each day, gates open at 12:30. www.lakesiderodeo.com

April 24-25 Fun With Chalk, Street Painting Festival - Mission Viejo
Both Days 10AM-5PM. Artist from all over transform and capture amazing beauty of art using pastel chalk as the medium to blend onto asphalt as their canvases. With each artist's techniques and their enthusiasm for the love of art you can truly experience the metamorphosis around you. Norman P Murry Community Center, 24932 Vetrans Way. www.funwithchalk.org

April 24-25 Renaissance Faire - Escondido, CA
Location Felicita Park, 742 Clarence Lane. Hours 10-6 Daily http://www.goldcoastfestivals.com/EscoGenInfo.html

April 24-25 Cowboy Festival - Santa Clarita
Big yearly event at the Melody Ranch Motion Picture Studio. Tours, street shows, living history performers, buffalo soldiers and lots of music and food. For more information call 661-286-4021 or www.cowboyfestival.org

April 24-25 California Poppy Festival - Lancaster
Hours 10am-6pm, Lots of enteratinment, foot, crafts, etc. Location: Lancaster City park 43011 N 10th Street West. If you go, be sure to go to the Poppy Perserve where the real pictures are. http://www.poppyfestival.com

May 1-2 Renaissance Faire - Escondido, CA
Location Felicita Park, 742 Clarence Lane. Hours 10-6 Daily http://www.goldcoastfestivals.com/EscoGenInfo.html

May 2 American Diabetes Association Tour de Cure 2010 - Long Beach
while this event is designed for cyclists, it sounds like it might be a great chance to get a lot of rider images, especially on the bridges.
The Tour de Cure offers cyclists a once a year opportunity to ride the Gerald Desmond and Vincent Thomas port bridges from Long Beach to Los Angeles. After pausing at our San Pedro Ports O Call rest stop, cyclists choose between a scenic ride to the southern bluffs of Palos Verdes; a metric century, which includes a breath-taking climb to the top of Palos Verdes East; or a relaxing return to the Queen Mary on a harbor cruise that cyclists young and less young will enjoy.
http://tour.diabetes.org/site/TR/TourdeCure/TDC552018030?pg=entry&fr_id=6896

May 8 - June 20 Weekends. Koroneburg Old World Festival - Corona
This is my favorite renaissance fair located at Riverview Park, off River Road. They have permanent buildings that make great backdrops, lots of shade, flat walking area. This is a smaller event than the one in Irwindale. I think this makes for better images. Lots of entertainment. www.renaissanceinfo.com/riverview

May 15 Moonridge Zoo Photographers Day and Photo Contest - Big Bear
This small zoo in the mountains has a photo day and contest to get pictures for their calender. Susan and I had 4 images in the 2009 Calender. View at the website. Photo Day is 10AM-4PM. Special photo ops with some of the animals. www.moonridgezoo.org

May 15-16 Planes of Fame Airshow - Chino Airport
Great airshow with lots vintage planes. Warbirds from all over the US come to Chino for this event. The theme of Airshow 2010 is “A Salute To The Greatest Generation.” This year, the Museum will fly its aircraft to honor the men and women whose service and sacrifice during World War II has caused them to become known as the “Greatest Generation.” http://www.planesoffame.org/airshow2010.php

May 15-16 All Nations Pow Wow - Acton, CA
Billed as a traditional pow wow. 9:30AM - 7PM each day. KOA Campground, 7601 Soledad Canyon Rd. Acton is on HwY 14 near Lancaster.

May 22-23 Ojai Renaissance and Pirate Faire - Ojai at Lake Casitas
Near Ventura, great rolling hill and Lake location, 10AM-6PM
http://www.goldcoastfestivals.com/ojairen/renpg1.html

May 25-30 Mule Days Celebration - Bishop, CA.
Every year during the Memorial Day Weekend, more than 700 mules compete in 181 events at the Bishop Mule Days Celebration. There is no way to actually describe Mule Days. It is part mule show, part test of skills, and part Wild West show.
Situated on the Tri-County Fairgrounds in Bishop, California, Mule Days has become an international world class event. Crowds have grown from 200 to more than 30,000 fans! The longest running non-motorized parade on Saturday morning, Steer roping and penning, an event normally reserved for quarter horses, and the Packer's Scramble – the wildest, noisiest and funniest event of the weekend. http://www.muledays.org/