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2014 CALIFORNIA SEPTEMBER 2014
Local Food, Beer and Wine Events
(see also: 2013 - 2012 - 2011 - 2010 - 2009 - 2008)

September 5-7, 2014  Rockin RibFest
Huntington Beach, California
The Rockin RibFest will emerge onto the Southern California scene in early September to put an explanation point on the endless summer. The event will  offer national marquee touring classic rock artist, classic hit and country plus a host of California's own musicians.  Rib connoisseurs for the first time, will be exposed to the finest in barbeque from the leading national award winning teams straight from The BBQ Championships in Nevada; representing over 10 states and Canada. Event will include local restaurants as well as LA's best Food Trucks.  Additional activities to include a wine tasting village, BBQ Showcases, local California "Taste of" cuisine from some of the top restaurants and a family fun zone.

September 6, 2014  Plate by Plate Annual Tasting Benefit
San Francisco, California
This signature gala will once again showcase savory food and dessert delicacies prepared by talented chefs from the best restaurants in Los Angeles, as well as samplings from premier wineries and beverage companies.

September 8, 2014  Flavors of San Diego - San Diego, California
Flavors is a culinary experience that goes beyond the traditional gala and provides each table of attendees with a local chef who will prepare a multi-course dinner tableside. The meal that is delivered will showcase the signature dishes of our culinary experts and take you beyond the usual restaurant fare. Unleash your inner "foodie" and experience a distinct evening of dining while helping to fund the research, education and advocacy efforts of the American Liver Foundation.

September 11-14, 2014  Lodi Grape Festival - Lodi, California
The Festival’s mission and main purpose is to promote the agriculture and agricultural products of San Joaquin County, and to offer diverse forms of agricultural education. The Festival strives to present unique, family – oriented exhibits that not only entertain, but educate and enlighten.

September 12-13, 2014  626 Night Market - Arcadia, California
The 626 Night Market is the largest Asian night market in the U.S. featuring over 150 local restaurants, food vendors, entrepreneurs, merchandise vendors, artists, musicians, and non-profit groups. Night markets are a staple in Asian societies with the primary focus on hundreds of different Asian street food and merchandise vendors. The 626 Night Market brings the energy and spirit of Asian night markets to Los Angeles. July 18-19; August 15-16 & September 12-13, 2014.

September 13-14, 2014  19th Ghirardelli Square Chocolate Festival
San Francisco, California
Ghirardelli Chocolate Company will host the 19th Annual Ghirardelli Chocolate Festival attracting about 40,000 visitors from the Bay Area and around the world. This family-friendly event features prominent local chefs creating chocolate inventions during cooking demonstrations, live musical entertainment, children’s activities and the popular “Earthquake” Ice Cream Sundae Eating Contest. Over 30 different booths from local restaurants, bakeries and chocolate companies will provide dessert samples during the two-day event.

September 13-14, 2014  Crawfish & Catfish Festival
Woodland, California
Let the Good times roll, you will come for the food but you will stay for the music! Savor the flavors of  spicy boiled crawfish, catfish fried & grilled, oysters, alligator, frog legs, ribs, chicken, tri tip, burgers, dogs. sausages and lots more.  Spicy sounds of  Cajun, Zydeco ,Funk and downhome blues. Dance lessons Mardi Gras Parade and kids area.

September 14, 2014  Taste of Chico - Chico, California
Restaurants, breweries, wineries and beverage distributors treat event participants to fabulous fare while they stroll Downtown streets brimming with culture. Four main stages host continuous, live music and performances while the “Open Air Art Gallery” previews fine artists from the Chico Art Center’s Open Studios Art Tour. Attendance: 15,000.

September 14, 2014  Share Our Strength's Taste of the Nation
San Diego, California
Share Our Strength's Taste of the Nation is the nation's premier culinary benefit, featuring top chefs and mixologists -- all of whom are coming together to donate their time, talent and passion to end childhood hunger in America.

September 16-17, 2014  NLS Food Evolution Summit 2014
Indian Wells, California
The 7th Annual Food Evolution Summit features the ideal peer-to-peer networking environment for Top Level Executives in New Product Development (NPD), Research and Development (R & D), Innovation and many other related fields within the food industry. Be a part of the Industry's Must Attend Event featuring thought leaders from the world's leading food manufacturers, discussing the key issues affecting the current and future growth of your business.

September 20, 2014  Tomato Battle Norcal
Alameda County Fair Grounds, California
The Tomato Battle unifies as many as 5,000 fruit-chucking fanatics for an afternoon of dancing to music, sipping libations, and flinging 300,000 pounds of roma tomatoes at one another. Mosh in a ketchup-covered fray that marries the traditions of Spain’s La Tomatina tomato-throwing festival and Germany’s Oktoberfest.

September 20-21, 2014  Dia del Taco 2014 - Los Angeles, California
Best Taco Contest, Taco Eating Contest, Taco Making Demo.

September 27, 2014  18th Annual Heirloom Tomato Festival
Fulton, California
Our signature event reveals the delicious flavors of more than 175 heritage varieties of tomatoes grown in our expanded estate culinary gardens. Enjoy the perfect fall day with garden tours, exceptional wine and food pairings, dynamic wine and garden seminars and live music.  New for this year, we are offering a VIP Package which includes a VIP Tent and lounge, VIP check-in, valet parking, exclusive culinary creations prepared by Executive Chef Justin Wangler and special wines poured by our Master Sommelier, Larry O’Brien. We’re also bringing back the popular Chef’s Challenge and nearly 50 wine country and Bay Area chefs to create tomato-inspired bites vying for the coveted Critics Choice award. The festival benefits Guy Fieri’s Cooking with Kids foundation.

September 27, 2014  Sunset Sip & Shop - Livermore, California
Livermore Valley wineries will pour for guests as they shop the night away at our quarterly Sunset Sip and Shop at Livermore Premium Outlets

September 28, 2014  Spirits of Mexico - San Diego, California
It's The Spirits of Mexico's 11th anniversary this year and we're holding the festival at a brand new venue! We're really excited it's at the Del Mar Fairgrounds in San Diego CA. Del Mar is a majestic venue with paved walkways throughout and sees over two million people pass through their doors each year during the busy racing season.   There'll be plenty of Tequila, Mezcal, Sotol, Raicilla, Bacanora and other spirits being poured by the producers and distillers themselves. New-to-market brands will be showcased along with other well-loved brands. A separate area to taste Extra Añejos will give you the opportunity to try some of the most expensive and lovingly- crafted spirits in the world! Meet The Masters gives consumers the chance to chat with the pioneers and heroes from the world of agave. Seminars hosted by some of the top producers will teach the history and culture of agave spirits, proper tasting techniques and trends for 2014.

2013 CALIFORNIA SEPTEMBER 2013
Local Food, Beer and Wine Events
waiting for new dates

September 1, 2013  4th Annual Sample the Sierra Festival
South Lake Tahoe, California
Farm-to-Fork Festival celebrating the best Food, Wine and Art in the Sierra Nevada.

September 6-8, 2013  28th Lake Tahoe Autumn Food & Wine Festival
Northstar, California
Come enjoy three full days of cooking seminars and demonstrations, culinary competitions, wine tastings, grape stomp, and more.

September 6-8, 2013  The Original Long Beach Lobster Festival
Long Beach, California
The 17th annual three day event features Fresh Maine Lobster, flown in from the salty Atlantic Ocean. Dinners are steamed to perfection and also include melted butter for dipping sauce, fresh cut lemons, coleslaw, dinner rolls and watermelon. an International food court, beach bars, arts and crafts booth, along with amazing live entertainment, dancing and a specil children's area creae an authentic east coast Lobster love-fest in Southern California. General admission is $15, with food feast and items extra. Discounts are available, please visit the website.

September 7, 2013  California Beer Festival - Claremont/San Dimas
San Dimas, California
This lake side Craft Beer festival features over 70 craft brews on tap, food trucks, live music and bikini Bocce Ball! CBF is the event of the year for any beer enthusiast! CBF''s main goal is to shine a light on the craft beer movement and celebrate great beer! For one low price, you will receive a souvenir tasting cup to sample some of the best craft beers from around the world and listen to amazing music! This is a chance to expand your mind and educate yourself on new and old styles of craft beer!

September 7, 2013  Julian Grape Stomp Festa - Julian, California
Celebrate the harvest of the grapes with a real, olde-world style grape stomp and festa at the Menghini Winery. Italian music, dancing, bocci ball competitions, wine tasting, food and crafts. Attendance: 2,000.

September 7, 2013  18th Annual Sebastopol Cajun-Zydeco Festival
Sebastopol, California
Cajun Food and Zydeco Music.

September 7, 2013  LA PICNIC - Los Angeles, California
St. Vincent Meals on Wheels (STVMOW) launches the first annual LA Picnic, a daytime fundraiser celebrating the extraordinary contributions seniors make in our lives and communities. Proceeds from the event will go towards STVMOW’s vital programs dedicated to combating senior hunger in Los Angeles.

September 7-8, 2013  42nd Annual Art & Wine Festival
Mountain View, California
Highlights include festive drink, stellar live music, incredible edibles, and kids' park.

September 7-8, 2013  29th Annual Pittsburg Seafood & Music Festival
Pittsburg, California
The Pittsburg Seafood Festival, now in its 29th year, has long been one of the keystone events in Contra Costa County. Experience the Seafood Festival in up-and-coming Old Town Pittsburg.

September 7-8, 2013  Tracy Dry Bean Festival - Tracy, California
A celebrated community tradition of fun, families & of course beans!  If you're a great cook we welcome you to participate in our famous Chili Cook-Off! Join us for our Celebrity Kitchen cooking demos and cooking contests, etc.  Bean Ice cream, Bean Chips, & of course Chili Beans! You can expect some great food at this years Tracy Dry Bean Festival!  Don't miss this years Chili Bean Cook-Off. 
(also: www.tracychamber.org ) Attendance: 50,000.

September 10-12, 2013  3rd Annual National Heirloom Exposition
Santa Rosa, California
Come and see over 3000 varieties of heirloom produce—from every state. With more than 100 speakers and 300 natural food vendors, this is the world's largest heritage food event. The Exposition creates awareness on issues surrounding 'pure food'. Proceeds from this not-for-profit event benefit school gardens and other food programs.

September 13-15, 2013  Port of Los Angeles Lobster Festival
San Pedro, California
The World's largest lobster festival, features discount Maine lobster meals. After feasting on our world famous lobster meals, enjoy dancing, street performers and music. Shop for arts and crafts.

September 14, 2013  Nevada City Uncorked - Nevada City, California
Join us in historic Downtown Nevada City as we enjoy a robust sampling of local Foothill wines, beers, and food from 30 wineries and restaurants.

September 14-15, 2013  31st Annual Capitola Art & Wine Festival
Capitola, California
The festival combines art, wine, music, and food all in Capitola Village by the Sea. Over 150 fine artists and 22 wineries will participate in this year's event.

September 14-15, 2013  Santa Clara Art & Wine Festival
Santa Clara, California
The 2013 festival will feature the talents of local and regional artists with nearly 175 booths, 25 community groups serving international foods, fine wines, micro-brewed beer and entertainment on three stages.

September 14-15, 2013  7th Annual Avocado & Margarita Festival
Morro Bay, California
Enjoy the Best California Avocados in all variations of culinary delights as well as refreshing margaritas, beer, local wines, specialty foods, live entertainment, arts and crafts vendors, a large family area for the younger crowd & the beautiful Embarcadero, Morro Bay. You could win a Year Supply of Avocados!   Enter the Best Avocado Recipe Contest. With sufficient submissions a souvenir recipe book will be printed and offered at the event. Awards given to the winners and recognized in the book.

September 18, 2013  5th Annual A Taste of Downtown San Rafael
San Rafael, California
The Tasting event will be located throughout the Downtown San Rafael area and will include restaurants and merchants offering hors d'oeuvres and wine samples. There will be a free cable car shuttle making designated stops to pick up and drop off attendees during the event times.

September 19-22, 2013  Walnut Festival - Walnut Creek, California
Celebrates the history of growing walnuts in the area and raises money to benefit the community.

September 19-29, 2013  LA Beer Week - Los Angeles, California
Featuring a mind and palate pleasing array of local beer establishments, breweries, beer cuisine, restaurants and education. Come out and celebrate the diversity of our local beer culture at one of the many events being held at great establishments all across the Southland.

September 20-22, 2013  18th Annual Redondo Beach Lobster Festival
Redondo Beach, California
Maine lobsters prepared fresh daily. Giant Food Court, Beach Bars, Games, Entertainment, Rides, Games, Puppets, Magicians, Storytellers.

September 21, 2013  14th Annual Mount Veeder Appellation Wine Tasting
Napa, California
Featuring Mount Veeder Wines From 28 Wineries. Chef Selected Food Pairings. Raffle For a Mount Veeder Wine Cellar. Live Music In The Gardens

September 21, 2013  Annual Fair Oaks Chicken Festival - Fair Oaks, Calif
The Fair Oaks Chicken Festival is a celebration of our rural history and present village atmosphere.  The Village of Fair Oaks, colonized around 1895, was home to orange and citrus groves as well as olive orchards and assorted farm animals and, without a doubt, chickens were among them.  Today the Fair Oaks chickens enjoy the freedom and hospitality of the village they call home. Attendance: 15,000.

September 21, 2013  49er Festival & Chili Cookoff - Groveland, California
This all day event begins with a pancake breafast followed by a real small-town parade through downtown Groveland. The highlight of the day is the Chili Cook-off with local chefs vying for top awards in three categories: Beans, No Beans and Vegetarian Chili. Free music, kids zone, auction and raffle. (Annually, 3rd Saturday in September)

Sept 21, 2013  Blazin' Hog Competition BBQ & Zydeco Music Festival
Mariposa, California
Presented by the John C. Fremont Hospital Foundation. The best BBQ competition and Zydeco music festival in the Sierra's! Come hungry and wear your dancin' shoes!

September 21-22, 2013  Glendi International Food Fair - Santa Rosa, Calif
Santa Rosa's premier ethnic food and dance event with live music and foods from Russia, Romania, the Middle East, the Balkans, Greece and Eritrea.  Visit our churches for tours that explain the meaning behind the structure and iconography of an Orthodox Church and highlights the timeless frescoes that adorn the interior. Glendi is all about fun and family! In addition to the food, dancing, and tours we have a Children's Area with entertaining activities both days.  Beverages include beer from local microbreweries and an impressive selection of wines. As it cools off in the evening, try our Greek, Eritrean or regular coffee with ethnic sweets from our bakery including homemade baklava, and the new "Baklava Sundae."  Admission is $5 for adults, children under 12 are free.

September 21-22, 2013  18th Annual Lafayette Art, Wine & Music Festival
Lafayette, California
Now in its 18th year, the annual Lafayette Art & Wine Festival, held the 3rd weekend in September, is the one of the largest outdoor festivals in Contra Costa County. Art, handmade crafts, sample foods from top local restaurants and enjoy quality wines and microbrews, and enjoy continuous music from our two main stages.
Attendance: 100,000.

September 21-22, 2013  Sylmar Olive Festival - Sylmar, California
Come for good food and the sampling of tasty Fried Olives , Olive Ice Tea, Olive Tacos.  Shop Olive Oils, Lotions and much more Olive products . Enjoy amazing live music, watch contests and marvel at the Art work of the many chalk artist participating. Children can enjoy playing in our Huge play area which offers many children attractions. $8.00 General Admission  54” inches and under get in for Free Free Admission to attendees in Roman, Greek or Egyptian Costumes

September 21-22, 2013  California Beer Festival--Ventura - Ventura, Calif
Come experience over 130 craft beers on tap at Craft Beer Heaven on Saturday, as well as mouth watering food and great entertainment. The Blues, Brews and BBQ event will be held on Sunday. CBF's main goal is to shine a light on the craft beer movement and celebrate great beer!

September 21-22, 2013  Polo in the Wine Country - Oakmont, California
We proudly invite you to join Junior Achievement at our annual Polo In The Wine Country!

September 21-23, 2013  82nd PCCA Convention - Aptos, California
Since 1932, the Pacific Coast Coffee Association has strived to encourage growth and prosperity in the coffee business. We continue to celebrate and support all businesses and entities operating in the coffee industry.

September 22, 2013  36th Annual Jewish Food Faire - Carmichael, Calif
Foodies from all over northern California will enjoy home cooked delicious traditional and modern Jewish food such as Lox and Eggs, Matzo Ball Soup, Bagels and Cream Cheese, Corned Beef Sandwiches, Latkes, Rye Bread, Falafel and So Much More! Also enjoy live entertainment, cooking demonstrations, arts/crafts, and cultural activities. Congregation Beth Shalom.

September 26, 2013  Taste of Downtown - San Diego, California
San Diego's most prominent Taste returns to downtown for the 11th consecutive year. Participants will stroll through each corner of downtown San Diego and taste a wide variety of the best cuisine the city has to offer.

September 27, 2013  WhiskyFest San Francisco - San Francisco, California
WhiskyFest is the longest running whisky festival in the country and is held in Chicago, San Francisco, and New York.  WhiskyFest offers you the opportunity to taste from a selection of more than 250 whiskies from around the world; many of them rare and exclusive. Meet the whisky makers at their booths to learn first-hand how the whiskies are made. Take some time to enjoy the never-ending gourmet buffet.

September 27-29, 2013  Italian Feast of San Gennaro LA - Hollywood, CA
12th Annual Festival of Italian Food, Culture, and Music.

September 27-29, 2013  116th Valley of the Moon Vintage Festival
Sonoma, California
The Valley of the Moon Vintage Festival is Sonoma Valley’s annual tradition of celebrating the harvest of wine grapes and the yearly crush. Since 1897 the Valley of the Moon Vintage Festival has been celebrating the Sonoma Valley’s bounty, community, and local culture. California’s oldest festival, this Sonoma tradition takes place the last full weekend of September in downtown Sonoma’s historic Plaza. The Festival benefits many Sonoma Valley community projects and non-profits.

September 28, 2013  Martinis on the Plaza - Martinez, California
Enjoy a magical evening under the enchantment of a starry sky, a babbling plaza fountain, graceful white tents & dancing twinkle lights as you travel back in time to the elegance of the 1940's Rat Pack era. Partake of specialty martinis, epicurean delights from regional restaurants, and live big band swing music as we celebrate Martinez's heritage as the birthplace of the Martini.

September 28, 2013  SOL Food Festival - Santa Barbara, California
A one-day community-created festival to raise awareness of the Sustainable, Organic, and Local food systems of Santa Barbara County.  Live cooking demos, DIY workshops, live animals, Local beer and wine tasting garden, delicious SOL Food vendors, and much more

September 28, 2013  L.A. Loves Alex's Lemonade - Culver City, California
Join us for the 4th annual event. Culinary greats from across the country will come together to prepare and serve their delicious dishes while raising funds and awareness for Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, benefiting childhood cancer research.

September 28, 2013  2nd Annual Banana Festival - Port of Hueneme, CA
There is something for everyone at this family friendly event. Highlights include great food, delectable banana desserts, live bands, an arts and crafts marketplace, and lots of fun kid’s activities.  Experience the interworking of the Port with tours, educational displays, and an auto pavilion, all while enjoying one of the Port’s largest imports – Bananas!  Enter your favorite recipe in the Best Banana Recipe Contest.

September 28, 2013  Cultivate L.A. -  Los Angeles, California
Join local chefs and vintners to support local foster kids, while enjoying an unforgettable evening of elegance and style under the stars at one of L.A.'s most historic and scenic private homes. Sample the finest tastes from the region's favorite restaurants, vintners, breweries, and artisanal food producers.

September 28-29, 2013  American Lebanese & Middle Eastern Festival
Carmichael, California
Our Lady of The Rosary Maronite Catholic Community of Sacramento will be hosting its 2nd annual American Lebanese & Middle Eastern Festival. Come Enjoy our great Mediterranean/authentic food & desserts. Music, dance & Dabke performance. Also come and join us for our backgammon and tarneeb tournaments. Great family outing as we will also have fun kids' games & activities; bounce house, face painting & much more!

September 28-29, 2013  22nd Annual California Lemon Festival
Goleta, California
You’ll find wonderful food, a fantastic family atmosphere, and a variety of entertainment and activities that have made this the most anticipated event in the Goleta Valley.

September 28-29, 2013  14th World Veg Festival - San Francisco, Calif
14th San Francisco World Veg Festival,  Children’s Corner, Green Lifestyle Film Festival, Healthy Food Demos with Recipes & Samples, International Speakers & Workshops, Live Entertainment, Vegan Cuisine to sample or buy, Urban Gardening.

September 29, 2013  29th Annual Abbot Kinney Festival - Venice, Calif
Promotes the vibrant creativity that makes Venice, California so unique. Organized by the Abbot Kinney Festival Association (AKFA) to raise funds to reinvest back into the community to support youth and families. Featuring a unique array of local artisan crafts, live music, good food, and commitment to the environment. Includes food from Strictly Vegan, Hello Harvest, Soft Peaks Confections, Border Grill Truck, and more.

2012 CALIFORNIA SEPTEMBER 2012
Food Festivals, Local Food, Beer and Wine Events
waiting for new dates

September 7-9, 2012  Taste of the World Festival - Los Angeles, Calif
Travel the world in a single day and celebrate the food, drink, music and dance from Africa, Asia, Europe, Oceania and the Americas. This delicious event will be a true feast for the senses and an apt reflection of the multicultural diversity of Los Angeles, held in the heart of the city. (expired domain: www.tasteoftheworldfestival.com/ )

Sept 8, 2012  Main Street Tehachapi's Oktoberfest in the Mountains
Tehachapi, California
Join us for  Tehachapi Oktoberfest Festival In the Mountains. This festival, held in Historic Downtown Tehachapi, California right on Tehachapi Blvd, includes such attractions as live German music, polka dancing, Volkswagen Car Show, and spectacular fine German food. And of course we will have an assortment of delicious German BEERS!!! and commemorative Beer Stein for sale.  No entry fee.  Fun for kids too with a petting zoo, face painting, kids games and bounce house.   Raffle of some wonderful collector steins and other German gift baskets.  Raffle prizes will be on display in the Tehachapi Depot Museum. Attendance: 5,000.

September 14-16, 2012  24th Annual Taste of Newport
Newport Beach, California
Southern California's Premier Food Festival. Food, Drinks, Entertainment.

September 20, 2012
Totally Local VC farm to plate dinner series.... Dinner at the Ocean
Ventura, California
Totally Local VC's Dinner at the Series.  Next on the slate in the Dinner at the Series is Dinner at the ... Ocean featuring Chef Gary Daniel and the wines of Ojai Vineyards, Surf Brewery, Ventura Limoncello Company and Tequila Alquimia  It all happens on Sept 20th.  The goal of Totally Local VC and the dinner series is to draw attention to not only our local Agriculture community, but also our outstanding local chefs and local businesses that have helped to make Ventura County such an amazing place to live, at the same time that we bring awareness to and deepen people’s appreciation of historic county wide locations. Set at the unusual you will dine at a kings table seated next to the farmers and purveyors themselves.  Do not miss your chance to experience these amazing dinners which also give back. A percentage of  the proceeds got to FOOD SHare. They always sell out. to make a reservation just go to the website or call us at (805) 643-1131

September 22, 2012  The Taste of Grass Valley - Grass Valley, California
A unique tasting event held in historic downtown Grass Valley, at the beautiful Gold Miners Inn-Holiday Inn Express. "Sip" wines from over 20 local and regional wineries, "Savor" delectable entrées from 5 exclusive restaurants featuring signature dishes and "Enjoy" live music.

September 22-23, 2012  The Gourmet Experience - Del Mar, California
A cooking and home entertainment showcase featuring the best in culinary solutions, appliances, culinary travel, home products & specialty foods for the gourmet lifestyle.  (domain name expired: http://www.thegourmetexpo.com )

September 22-23, 2012  California Candy Festival - Fairfield, California
Activities include candy sampling, candy-themed music & entertainment, candy making competition, parade, wine & chocolate pairing pavillion, and candy art contest. Takes place at the 15-acre Jelly Belly Visitors Center. Attendance: 20,000

September 23, 2012  Slow Food Orange County's 4th Annual Barbeque
Irvine, California
Slow Food Orange County invites Slow Food members and nonmembers alike to its third annual summer BBQ featuring a barbecue chicken dinner, live music, opportunity drawing, and guest speaker.

September 28-29, 2012  Heritage Auctions Fine & Rare Wine Auction
Beverly Hills, California
Heritage Auctions (HA.com) Fine & Rare Wine Auction #5112

September 29, 2012  Harvest Full Moon Wine and Beer Walk
Tehachapi, California
Enjoy an evening stroll downtown tasting Wines & Beers paired with appetizers. Downtown Businesses will host our Annual Summer Wine & Beer Walk in Historic Downtown Tehachapi. Musicians throughout downtown will entertain you while you stroll with your friends and loved ones.  Enjoy the fresh, clean and crisp air of our beautiful Mountain town. Cost: $25 for ten tastings of 1 1/2 oz of wine or 3 oz of beer and $30 day of the event.   By  Phone with Visa, MasterCard, or American Express 661-822-6519

September 29, 2012  21st Annual Women of Taste - Oakland, California
For over 21 years, Girls Inc. has brought together the Bay Area's best chefs, winemakers, brewmasters and more for one of the largest and most recognized food and wine events in the region. This is Women of Taste and it all takes place at the Kaiser Rooftop Garden - an urban paradise of lush green in downtown Oakland.

September 29-Oct 4, 2012  DiRoNA's Annual Conference & Gala
Napa, California
Distinguished Restaurants of North America. We will gather to celebrate, remember our past, and build our future.

2011 CALIFORNIA SEPTEMBER 2011
Food Shows and Local Food, Beer and Wine Events
waiting for new dates

September 9-11, 2011  Oakley Almond Festival - Oakley , California
EVENT CANCELLED FOR 2012.
Oakley's biggest event of the year celebrates the almond. Always held during the second week of September.

September 14, 2011  Friends of James Beard Benefit Dinner - Los Angeles, California
Joie De Vivre restaurants has partnered with the James Beard Foundation for a Friends of James Beard Benefit Dinner. West Restaurant & Lounge will play host to four talented chefs, 3 of whom are from Joie De Vivre's SoCal restaurants. Proceeds benefiting the JB Foundation and a scholarship will be awarded to an aspiring chef in Joie De Vivre's name.

September 17, 2011  9th Annual North Berkeley Spice of Life Festival - Berkeley, Cal
This five-block long food and art fair celebrates the spice of life with cooking demos and samples by local chefs, gourmet food, beer and wine, a farmers market, artist exhibitions, yoga and bodywork demonstrations, and lots of kids activities.

September 18, 2011  2nd Annual Couscous Festival - Pasadena, California
The only one of it's kind in the U.S.--food demonstrations throughout the event.

September 24, 2011  NoHo Taco Cook-off - North Hollywood, California
20 cooks to compete to make the best tasting taco in the Los Angeles area. Our panel of gourmet food truck judges will select the winner of this competition. The festivities will also include: live entertainment, dancers, art and craft booths, 25 food trucks, aerial performances and dog adoptions.  A portion of proceeds will be donated to The Forgotten Dog , a local dog rescue group.

September 24-25, 2011  Sonoma County Farm Trails - Windsor, California
Join local farmers for a weekend of tours, artisan foods, wine tasting, hands-on activities, cooking, pick-your-own, agricultural demonstrations, music and harvest. From hay rides to cheese-making, Weekend Along the Farm Trails offers a chance to experience Sonoma County's agricultural heritage.

September 25, 2011  11th Annual Malibu Family Wines Grape Crush and Harvest Festival
Malibu, California
Benefiting City Hearts, Kids Say Yes to The Arts. Savor delicious samplings from over 20 local restaurants, and taste the heralded Semier Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Rose and Saddlerock Wines. Entertainment, crafts, grape crush and music for all ages.

2010 CALIFORNIA SEPTEMBER 2010
Food Shows and Local Food, Beer and Wine Events
events still waiting for new dates

September 9, 2010  The Joy of Sake - San Francisco, California
This year's event features 150 different daiginjo, ginjo and junmai sakes, including many gold- and silver-award recipients from the 2010 U.S. National Sake Appraisal.

September 10-11, 2010  St George Church Annual Greek Food Festival - Bakersfield, Cal
3:00pm Friday & 1:00pm on Saturday until 11 PM - $3.00 admission. Children under 12 free. 401 Truxtun Ave., Downtown Bakersfield. Join us for fun, frolic, and great Greek food!  For Vendor booths (661) 323-0906  See you there-Opa!

September 11, 2010  3rd Annual Brew Haw Haw - Los Angeles, California
This ultimate outdoor beer bash will offer up suds from some of the region’s best microbreweries and brew pubs. Several of Los Angeles’ most popular restaurants will be there, too, serving up their specialties and festive fare. Fest-goers can tap their toes to live music and bid on great silent auction items, all while supporting the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation raise funds for a cure.

September 17-19, 2010  Pacific Food & Wine Classic - Santa Monica, California

September 18, 2010  2nd Annual Taste of Fillmore - San Francisco, California
The event will include food sampling, wine tasting and jazz. In addition, we will have a cooking demonstration stage with chefs from Fillmore Street Restaurants and a Fashion Show to showcase Fillmore Street boutiques.

September 18-19, 2010  Glendi Ethnic Food Fair - Santa Rosa, California
Enjoy gyros, Piroshki, baklava, foods from Eritrea, Serbia, Greece, Russia, Macedonia, and the Middle East. Beer, wine, ethnic coffee.

September 25-26, 2010  28th American Wine and Food Festival - Los Angeles, Cal
One of America’s premier culinary events. Many of the world's top chefs and wine and spirit purveyors will gather on the backlot of Universal Studios to raise a celebratory glass in support of the Meals On Wheels Programs of Los Angeles.  A pantheon of food and beverage stars will exercise their considerable talents for the enjoyment of over 2,700 food and wine enthusiasts. The opportunity to sample exceptional dishes prepared by an internationally acclaimed group of chefs will be accompanied by live music, dancing, and a silent auction.

September 25-26, 2010  Harvest: Farm-To-Table - Carmel, California
Celebrating agriculture, vitivulture, cheese and good times. More than 50 rockstar chefs preparing fabulous bites with the freshest produce from our local farming and ranch partners.  More than 100 wineries will be pouring more than 200 individual wines. Enjoy Wine Seminars, Cheese Tastings, Cooking Demonstrations, Gardening Classes and Barbecue Seminars in a kid friendly al fresco environment.  Great music and a Farmer's market provide added benefit.

Sept 30, 2010  Never an Empty Bowl: Sustaining Food Security in Asia - San Francisco, Cal
The Asia Society, The Asia Foundation, and Give2Asia invite you to a program marking the release of a report prepared by an Asia Society/International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) Task Force on Food Security and Sustainability in Asia. The landmark report examines the multiple factors contributing to Asia's growing food insecurity and lays out a strategy for the future that emphasizes the critical importance of rice as a source of nutrition, livelihoods, and environmental sustainability. Please join us for a discussion with Task Force members and other prominent experts.

2009 CALIFORNIA SEPTEMBER 2009
FOOD & WINE FESTIVALS, SHOWS, EVENTS
events waiting for new dates

September 12, 2009  Palmdale Jazz and Wine Festival - Palmdale, California
Come enjoy a warm late summer afternoon, listen to world-class jazz entertainment inlcuding Grammy award winning Norman Brown, taste excellent wines and savor gourmet foods at the Palmdale Jazz & Wine Festival!

September 13-18, 2009  San Diego Restaurant Week - San Diego, California
One of the premiere restaurant weeks in the country featuring over 140 restaurants and 250,000 diners each year.  Participating restaurants offer 3 course meals at bargain prices- either $20, $30 or $40 per person, depending on the restaurant. Restaurant Week has a new partner this year - the Girl Scouts! Several well-known chefs at top restaurants are creating Restaurant Week dishes using Girl Scout cookies to help bring awareness to the Girl Scout cookie drive.

September 19, 2009  Salute to Agriculture Taste of the Valley Wine & Food Show
Salinas, California
Become educated about our Agriculture Industry and meet those responsible for growing Salinas Valley produce. Indulge yourself in local wines and delicious food samplers.

Sept 19-20, 2009  Art Bark Fest - Animal Art & Wine Festival
Village at Squaw Valley, California
The Art Bark Fest was created to combine the love of art & wine with the love of animals and is one of the only animal themed fine arts and wine festival in the country. Benefit for Humane Society Truckee-Tahoe & Squaw Rescue Dogs.

2008 CALIFORNIA SEPTEMBER 2008
Local Food, Beer and Wine Events
waiting for new dates

September 6, 2008  Food & Wine Classic - Temecula, California
Taste award winning wines from 22 of wineries, paired with samples of gourmet food from local chefs. Proceeds benefitting Jacob's House.

September 7, 2008  Monrovia Food Wine & Jazz Festival - Monrovia, California

September 14, 2008  17th Annual NatureSweet Carmel TomatoFest
Carmel, California
This was the FINAL Carmel TomatoFest. Gary Ibsen announced his retirement from continuing the Carmel TomatoFest Event after 17 years.

September 27, 2008  Fair Oaks'toberfest 2008 - Fair Oaks, California
(Website no longer active: www.fairoaksbrewfest.com )
Unlimited Beer Tasting of over 40 different beers, Great Food from local vendors, & Live Music all in beautiful Fair Oaks Park.