Northern Nevada Pays 9/11 Tribute

For three days every September during one of the nation’s most spectacular hot-air balloon festivals, a rainbow of hot air balloons soar across the Reno skies. This year’s Great Reno Balloon Race at Rancho San Rafael Regional Park from September 9 to 11 has special significance.

The Great Reno Balloon Race Board of Trustees, together with Officials from the State of Nevada, the cities of Reno and Sparks, and Washoe County will honor the heroes and remember the lives lost on this tenth anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. 

The commemoration will take place on Sunday, September 11, the last day of the Great Reno Balloon Race. “The 9/11 anniversary often falls during the Balloon Race and we are honored to host this day of remembrance for our community,” Pilar Aldecoaotalora, President of the Balloon Race Board of Trustees said.

For early risers, the music tribute will begin at 5am with accompanying patriotic music and commentary during the Glow Show and Dawn Patrol. The official ceremony will take place at 6:30am before Mass Ascension.

The Great Reno Balloon Race, the largest free hot air ballooning event in the nation, is free to the public for its 30^th year thanks to widespread community support and generous sponsors. From its humble beginnings in 1982 with just 20 balloons, The Great Reno Balloon Race has taken flight with more than 100 balloons each year. The Balloon Race has won many awards over the years including ‘Best Special Event in Reno’ and ‘Best Special Event in Northern Nevada’.

To get a taste for what you’ll find at The Great Reno Balloon Race visit www.renoballoon.com.

For more information about top events in Nevada take a look at the Top Events USA selection of the annual main festivals and events in Nevada.

A Taste of the World in Cleveland

On any given weekend in Cleveland Plus visitors can find a chance to boogie with bagpipers, drift downriver on dragonboats, "mangia" manicotti and more. With such an appreciation and celebration of the 117 different ethnicities that make up the region, it's not just Cleveland, Ohio .... it's more like Cleveland, World.

The Cleveland Labor Day Oktoberfest from September 2 to 5 honors German culture with a beer-stein holding contest, a nationally-recognized marionette company, wiener dog races and more. The scale of Europeans foods, microbrews, exhibits and vendors participating in the festival is of Germanic proportions. The festival takes place at the Cuyahoga County fairgrounds all weekend long.

A part of the Riverocity Weekend in Cleveland Plus, the 5th annual Dragon Boat Festival on September 17 honors the historical importance that dragon boats have in Asian cultures. The 500-meter race features 40-foot long colorful boats driven around the curves of the Cuyahoga River by the paddles of 22 people all coordinated by drumbeats.

The Cleveland Italian Film Festival 2011 from September 17 to October 2 is an independent film festival showcasing award winning Italian films at the Cedar Lee Theater in Cleveland Heights. Award-winning Italian films are shown with English subtitles.

In 2012 plan for the Cleveland International Film Festival (March 22 to April 1) where at least 300 films from approximately 60 countries are showcased; the Cleveland Asian Festival in May, a weekend of fun in honor of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month; the Parade the Circle on June 9, a free community arts celebration held in University Circle, the nation’s most concentrated square mile of arts and cultural institutions; the Feast of the Assumption in Cleveland’s Little Italy neighborhood in August; and the Puerto Rican Parade and Latino Festival in August which highlight the Latino community’s rich music, foods, folklore and splendor.

For more information on Cleveland Plus visit www.positivelycleveland.com/ 

For more information about top events in Ohio take a look at the Top Events USA selection of the annual main festivals and events in Ohio. 

Fantasy, Fun and Entertainment in New Bern, NC

Now in its 31st year, the two-day extravaganza MUMFEST on October 8 and 9 is a combination of fantasy, fun and entertainment, which has consistently attracted over 80,000 visitors to New Bern’s revitalized historic downtown and waterfront. 

Recognized as one of October’s Top 20 Events in the Southeastern United States, MUMFEST fills the streets of historic downtown New Bern from the waterfront at Union Point Park to the gardens at Tryon Palace.

Music and MUMFEST definitely go together and this year's MUMFEST is so big it’s crossing the river! YPG River Jam features three favorite bands.  

The High-Flying Purina Incredible Dog Team performs amazing free-style disc routines set to music.  Alex Clark is a world traveled circus-trained comedian who juggles flames, climbs up the 10’ ladder of “doom” and is simply amazing in Project Dynamite. 

The Corvette Racing Tour is back to celebrate Corvette’s storied racing history and Chevrolet’s 100^th anniversary. The King BMX Stunt Show presents some of the most daring and talented ramp and flatland riders. 

The whole family will have a great time kazooing along with Rick Hubbard and the Kazoobie Kazoo Show.  

Stage entertainment this year features Susannah and Uncle John. Back by popular demand are local favorites, Conch Stew and New Diamond Jubilee.  

Catch the excitement at the Amusement Park with exciting rides for kids of all ages. As you walk along the streets of downtown New Bern you’ll encounter strolling magicians, face painters, fire-eaters and clowns. 

Beautiful Union Point Park is the site of the annual trailerable MUMFEST Boat Show, maritime and marine exhibits, military vessels, nautical displays and demonstrations.

For more information on MUMFEST and free shuttle service and boat taxis visit www.mumfest.com 

For more information about top events in North Carolina take a look at the Top Events USA selection of the annual main festivals and events in North Carolina.

SalsaFest Kicks Off New Mexico Centennial

New Mexico’s 16-month Centennial Celebration is off to a spicy start with the 3^rd annual SalsaFest Sunday (August 28) in Las Cruces; and “Catch the Kid” – the New Mexico Tourism Department’s summer travel promotion scavenger hunt – will be on hand to join in the fun.

Downtown Las Cruces between Las Cruces Ave. and Bowman, including La Placita on Main Street, will come alive with a day-long fiesta, 11am to 5pm. Downtown Las Cruces Partnership is host of the event, which includes salsa music, salsa dancing, food and activities for the whole family. 

There will be stories from NM Centennial Storyteller Joe Hayes, a classic car show, food and craft vendors, in addition to a salsa dance competition, the salsa band Son Como Son, and a salsa recipe competition. The Partnership is also hosting a dinner gala Saturday (August 27) on La Placita at 6 p.m. 

Founded in 1849, La Mesilla on the southern end of Las Cruces witnessed Billy the Kid's incarceration, two-day trial and conviction in April, 1881, for the April, 1878, murder of Lincoln County Sheriff William Brady. The Kid's original jail cell is in the Gadsden Museum, two blocks east of the former jail, now an art gallery at 105 Calle de Parian; and the former courtroom is today an art gallery and souvenir shop on the southeast corner of the plaza.

The Plaza is home to a clue on this summer’s hot “Catch the Kid” promotion. You can’t miss it – it’s hanging on the wall of the famous courtroom, the Billy the Kid Gift Shop. To join in the fun, visit www.catchthekid.com

For more information on Las Cruces SalsaFest visit www.lascrucescvb.org/new-mexico-centennial-to-kick-off-with-salsafest/

For more information about top events in New Mexico take a look at the Top Events USA selection of the annual main festivals and events in New Mexico.

Sweet respite from summer’s heat

Two new events added in just two years – plus lodging discounts during this “shoulder” season: fall in Breckenridge, Colorado, offers much more than colors and cool temps. 

The Fall for the Arts lets travelers of all ages take part in fine – and fun – art in the Breckenridge Arts District and the Breckenridge Craft Spirits Festival celebrates the nationally-booming handmade spirits industry. 

This historic mining town delivers on end-of-summer family fun and unique fall festivals. 

The Fall for the Arts from September 9 to 11 includes children’s theater, teen workshops, art walks (and bikes, in true Breck style), open studios and much more, which means artists of all ages have an entire weekend to pursue fine – and fun – art throughout Summit County.

Bid farewell to summer on Labor Day Weekend (September 2 to 5)with the challenge of a mountain trail run, the relaxation of a wine festival or the fun of a fundraiser rubber duck race. Sidewalk Sale Days lets gear junkies get great prices on summer favorites and the 36th annual Great Divide Arts Festival features more than 100 artists.  

Breckenridge Oktoberfest will this year (from September 16 to 18) offer new entertainment, VIP package and additional beer-pouring capabilities at the growing event. In its 17th year, Breck’s Oktoberfest brings a weekend of parties, German cuisine and plenty of Paulaner bier. Combine it all at one of the fest’s top parties, the Brewmaster’s Dinner, which features a different beer or wine paired with each of the six courses.

Craft distillers will gather in Breckenridge from October 7 to 9 for the second annual Craft Spirits Festival: Still on the Hill festival, which features a grand tasting, restaurant specials, a downtown pub crawl and historic saloon tours. 

For more information visit Breckenridge Resort Chamber at www.gobreck.com 

For more information about top events in Colorado take a look at the Top Events USA selection of the annual main festivals and events in Colorado. 

Labor Weekend Events Across Mountain State

Labor Day marks the unofficial end of summer, so make plans to enjoy some of these West Virginia events over the long weekend.

Celebrate fall and join the fun at Oak Hill’s Oak Leaf Festival from August 24 to September 4. It includes Taste of Oak Hill, Oak Hill’s Touch of Talent, quilt show, gospel sing, inflatables, pancake breakfast, chili cook-off, health fair, hand car rides, car and bike show, parades, arts, crafts, fireworks, pageants and much more. For additional information, contact 304-465-5617.

Activities at the Lincoln County Fall Festival/County Fair from September 1 to 4 at Lincoln County Memorial Fairgrounds, Hamlin, include numerous food vendors, carnival, petting zoo, arts and crafts, demolition derby, flea market, motocross, Civil War living history camp, pumpkin decorating (if available), Lincoln County Idol 2011 Finals, mud run, truck pulls, gospel music, fireworks and much more! Contact 304-549-7301.

This year the 33rd Annual West Virginia Italian Heritage Festival in Main Street, Clarksburg from September 2 to 4 promises to carry on its tradition of being one of the state's most spectacular and colorful events. The festival offers events, authentic Italian cuisine and "fun and games" for people of all ages. Contact 304-622-7314.

Enjoy Labor Day Weekend fun in the Heart of West Virginia at Jackson’s Mill Jubilee in Weston from September 2 to 4. Explore the beautiful grounds of historic WVU Jackson's Mill while you browse premium arts and craft vendors, view Civil War re-enactments and tour the historical buck skinner encampment, taste spectacular food, take in the heritage, gospel, country and Christian music. Contact 855-529-8616. 

At the Jane Lew Volunteer Firemen’s Arts and Crafts Festival from September 2 to 4, visit the more than 200 talented craft vendors representing glass, wood, leather, dolls, dried and silk flowers, baskets, ceramics, soaps, candles, painting, candy, honey, food, jams and jellies and much more. Contact 304-457-3097. 

Enjoy the sounds of the mountains brought to life by talented musicians at the Heritage Farm Way Back Weekend-Appalachian Music Festival at the Heritage Farm Museum and Village, Huntington on September 3. Additional activities include wagon rides, petting zoo, hands-on farm fun, food and award-winning museums. Contact 304-522-1244.

The family oriented Holly River Festival at Holly River State Park, Hacker Valley on September 3 and 4 features heritage arts and crafts, contests, live music and more in a beautiful setting. Contact 304-493-6353. 

The Homecoming Celebration at Cacapon Resort State Park, Berkeley Springs on September 4 includes music with multiple live bands, food, door prizes and lots of fun! Contact 304-258-1022.

For more information on events in West Virginia visit www.wvcommerce.org/default.aspx 

For more information about top events in West Virginia take a look at the Top Events USA selection of the annual main festivals and events in West Virginia. 

Monterey Music Festivals and Concerts Rock On

From Herbie Hancock to the Red Hot Chile Peppers, Monterey County’s line-up of live entertainment makes for a heady getaway.  

From September 16 to 18, the 54th annual Monterey Jazz Festival at the Monterey County Fairgrounds, Monterey, California, hits a chord as the world’s longest continuously running jazz festival delivering and a showcase for such artists as India.Arie, Sonny Rollins and Poncho Sanchez.  

Jazz greats who have performed to sell out audiences at this granddaddy of all jazz festivals, include Miles Davis, Stan Getz, Dizzie Gillespie and Dave Brubeck, among others. This year’s celebration attracts all of the top names in jazz, and boasts art exhibits, jazz clinics and seminars. 

The Monterey Jazz Festival will honor the four-time Grammy-winning trumpeter, composer and bandleader, Terence Blanchard, at its Annual Jazz Legends Gala on Thursday, September 15, at the Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa in Monterey, California.

In Big Sur, the Henry Miller Memorial Library annual concert series keeps things abuzz with a full line-up of pop-up artists including recent performances by the Dodos, Arcade Fire and Philip Glass. 

From the Next Generation Jazz Festival to the Monterey Bay Blues Festival, the line up for 2011/2012 promises a well-spring of talent and tradition. 

Auto and arts enthusiasts can combine both passions at the annual Monterey Rock n’ Rod Festival, while more classic pursuits can be had at the annual Carmel Bach Festival.  For those set on a Bob Marley fix next July, the 17th annual Monterey Reggaefest features 25 performances under the summer sky next July.

For more information on the wealth of entertainment options in Monterey County visit www.seemonterey.com/ 

For more information about top events in California take a look at the Top Events USA selection of the annual main festivals and events in California. 

Celebrating All Things Fungal

Alyeska Resort will host four days of events during the last weekend of August in celebration of the fourth annual Girdwood Fungus Fair. The festival weekend starts Thursday, August 25, at the Daylodge and runs through Sunday, August 28 with an exhibit hall of displays, guided forays and other interactive activities.

The Alyeska Daylodge is the primary exhibit area, open daily from 10am to 5pm during the festival. One of the highlights of the festival includes guided walks with featured mycologists. These experts will be on hand to provide a wealth of information on species identification, proper collecting techniques and where to find different species of mushrooms. 

Other events include an educational documentary, mushroom dye and cultivation workshops, talks by visiting experts, five-course dinner with wine pairing, live music and five kilometer fun run. The festival is free to the public; a few activities, the formal fund-raiser, and race have fees and may require registration in advance.

  

Presented by the Glacier Ranger District of the Chugach National Forest and Girdwood Parks and Recreation office, Girdwood Fungus Fair represents an on-going outreach effort by the Girdwood-based staff. 

Beyond the foothills at Anchorage's edge lies the second largest National Forest in America - six-million acres of some of the most accessible hiking, skiing, camping, wildlife viewing, snow-machining, rafting, and climbing in Alaska.

Alyeska Resort is Alaska’s premier year‐round destination featuring The Hotel Alyeska, an award‐winning 304 room full‐service property. Located just 40 miles from Anchorage and Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, Alyeska Resort is your base camp for summer and winter excursions. Learn more about the resort and plan your Alaskan adventure at www.AlyeskaResort.com or 800.880.3880.

For more information about top events in Alaska take a look at the Top Events USA selection of the annual main festivals and events in Alaska. 

South Dakota to Host World Rogaining Champs

The International Rogaining Federation has awarded the Black Hills of South Dakota the 12th World Rogaining Championships .... evidence of the world-class outdoor recreation available in South Dakota. The Championships are planned for August 16 and 17, 2014 and will attract several hundred elite cross-country navigators from all continents.

Rogaining came recently to South Dakota. Following the success of Primal Quest Badlands 2009, Rick Emerson of Peak Assurance organized the Dakota Rogaining Championships. The inaugural event held during May 2010 in Custer State Park (nearRapid City) attracted 26 teams from 14 states and provinces. 

The 2011 Championships are August 20 and 21 and current entries span 15 states and provinces. Custer State Park has limited the number of teams for 2011 to the first 40 while conducting an elk study.

The bid for the 2014 World Championships was proposed by the Black Hills Orienteering Club with course design and event organization by Rick Emerson. 

A Rogaine – an environmentally friendly outdoor recreation event – is a long-distance cross-country navigation race for teams traveling on foot by map and compass. The competition is spread over two days, but the participants often come early and stay after. Rick says 2010 DRC competitors attested that fact as many flew or drove in, toured the Black Hills, and supported local economies. “Hosting the World’s in 2014 will provide a substantial economic impact during our shoulder season after the Sturgis Rally”.

Visit www.peakassurance.net to learn more about Rogaining and the Dakota Rogaining Championships.

For more information about top events in South Dakota take a look at the Top Events USA selection of the annual main festivals and events in South Dakota.

32 Years of Ballooning in Plano Texas

This year marks 32 Years of Ballooning in Plano Texas. Join in the celebration at the InTouch Credit Union Plano Balloon Festival, a spectacular three-day event beginning at 4pm Friday, September 16 at Oak Point Park, 2801 E. Spring Creek Parkway. 

This weekend event offers something for everyone; 50 incredibly colorful hot-air balloons, entertainment on the FOX 4 community stage and KLUV main stage, a spectacular fireworks show on Saturday evening, and special kids activities. 

Fun for all ages, are the special shapes that attend the festival. This year’s special shapes will include: Lady Bug, Cheshire Cat, Purple People Eater, Little Pirate, and Jim & Betty. The balloons will launch Friday at 6pm, Saturday at 7am and 6pm, and Sunday at 7am and 6pm (weather permitting). Admission is $5 with kids under 36 inches free.

What would a festival be without food? This one literally has something for everyone, and with the variety of items being served this year, no one should leave hungry. Thanks to the participation by over 35 local non-profit agencies, independent vendors, and sponsors there are tantalizing treats to tempt every taste bud.

This event has been organized and designed to provide entertainment for the entire family. The Kid’s Fun Zone is filled with a “free Kids Korner” art tent, huge inflatables, and much more. Young and old have much in common when they are enjoying the colorful balloons that will fill the skies over Plano, September 16, 17 and 18. 

For more information on the Plano Balloon Festival visit www.planoballoonfest.org.

For more information about top events in Texas take a look at the Top Events USA selection of the annual main festivals and events in Texas.

Chicago Welcomes You to Labour Day Weekend

Celebrate the end of summer in Chicago on the sunny shores of Lake Michigan. Enjoy the season’s last long weekend by taking in the Chicago Jazz Festival, commemorating the 40th anniversary of Soul Train, celebrating at an ethnic neighborhood festival or cheering on a Cubs game.

Don’t miss this chance to discover Chicago’s many vibrant communities with Urban Excursions: Explore Chicago, the Chicago Office of Tourism and Culture’s summer initiative showcasing hundreds of treks, tours and urban adventures downtown and throughout the neighborhoods. 

Groove for four days straight at the 33rd Annual Chicago Jazz Festival at multiple locations from September 1 to 4. Millennium Park’s Jay Pritzker Pavilion hosts the opening night concert on Thursday with Randy Weston and the Chicago Jazz Ensemble featuring the arrangements of Melba Liston. 

The Soul Train festivities culminate with a spectacular Labor Day concert at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion. Don Cornelius, founder and host of Soul Train, will be in attendance and honored as the evening’s special guest. 

From September 1 to 5, in honor of the 40th anniversary of the Chicago-based Soul Train – the longest-running, nationally syndicated program in television history – the Soul Train Photo Exhibition at Expo 72 (72 E. Randolph Street) features a never-before-seen collection of more than 55 rare photographs of the biggest names in music, all of them taken right on the Soul Train stage. On September 2, feel like you just stepped onto the Soul Train set at an after-work “Friday Night Groove” at Expo 72 with local DJ Bob Abrahamian. 

Celebrate African culture at the 21st Annual African Festival of the Arts from September 2 to 5. This Labor Day weekend event transforms Chicago’s Washington Park into an authentic African village, complete with three stages of spectacular entertainment, an African Marketplace showcasing authentic art and culture, luscious African cuisine, cultural pavilions, and family fun. 

Find an array of helpful resources for planning a trip to Chicago at www.ExploreChicago.org.

For more information about top events in Illinois take a look at the Top Events USA selection of the annual main festivals and events in Illinois. 

Spicy Music for Spokane’s Favorite Food Event

The 32nd Annual Pig Out in the Park returns to the beautiful Riverfront Park, Spokane, Washington, from August 31 through September 5.  

Pig Out in the Park is open 10am to 10 pm daily and features: free admission, 54 food booths with over 250 different menu items, 82 free concerts on three stages and 3 adult beverage gardens. Nothing is over a measley $8.95.  

Free headline concerts include Too Slim and the Taildraggers, Charlie Musclewhite, Carbon Leaf, Marcy Playground, the MarchFourth Marching Band and the legendary Leon Russell. 

One of the things Spokane likes best about Pig Out is the ethnic and cultural diversity of the people and restaurants. This year's event is a good example. Represented are authentic Chinese, Vietnamese, Japanese, German, Italian, Korean, Indian, Native American, American, Bavarian, Spanish, French, Jordanian, Russian, Hawaiian, Thai and other Middle Eastern foods. Pig Out in the Park is Spokane's largest cultural event. 

Entertainment is half the menu. Pig Out’s free concert entertainment continues to draw large appreciative audiences. The readers of the Pacific NW Inlander Magazine have again recognized Pig Out in the Park with two prestigious awards, Spokane’s Best Community Event and the area’s Second Best Outdoor Music Festival. 

For the 82 free concerts, 2011 Pig Out in the Park features the Clocktower Concert Stage, the very popular Acoustic River Stage and the new Runners Stage. 

2011 Pig Out in the Park sponsors are King Beverage Inc./Budweiser, Northern Lights Brewing, Northern Quest , A-Z Rental, The Spokesman Review, Inland Northwest Bank, Systems TWT, Valpak and The Six Bridges Arts Association. 

For more information on Pig Out in the Park visit www.spokanepigout.com

For more information about top events in Washington State take a look at the Top Events USA selection of the annual main festivals and events in Washington State. 

San Diego Celebrates "Arts Month" in September

Known for 70 miles of beaches and year-round mild weather, San Diego offers visitors arts and culture happenings that are just as dazzling as its Pacific Ocean views. During September, visitors can enjoy the vibrant local arts communities and help celebrate "Arts Month San Diego" with a variety of exhibitions and events taking place across the county.

Events taking place during Arts Month San Diego in September include:

Held at the Hilton San Diego Bayfront in downtown San Diego, the Art San Diego - Contemporary Art Fair from September 1 to 4 showcases works by more 500 artists and 60 local and international galleries. In addition to the gallery booths, special features include curated exhibitions, contemporary furniture design displays, solo-artist exhibits, video-based works, live performance art, and art in public spaces.

The city of Coronado celebrates the arts during the Coronado Art Walk on September 17 and 18 with exhibits of paintings, photography, ceramics, hand-crafted jewelry and other mediums at the Coronado Ferry Landing, along with Art-in-the-Park at scenic Spreckels Park. Admission is free, and a free shuttle service transports visitors to both event areas.

Set along Chula Vista Yacht Harbor, the annual Chula Vista Centennial Harbor Days Extravaganza on September 24 and 25 features an arts and crafts fair featuring many local artisans as well as a juried art show displaying the work of local artists that celebrate the city's connection to the past and the waterfront.

Held in downtown's historic Gaslamp Quarter, the annual San Diego International Film Festival from September 28 to October 2 features a full slate of films showcasing the best in American and International full-length features, documentaries and shorts.  

For more information on events in San Diego visit www.sandiego.org

For more information about top events in California take a look at the Top Events USA selection of the annual main festivals and events in California. 

Chicago Hosts First Shopping Festival in U.S.

The USA’s first shopping festival is being launched this summer by The Greater North Michigan Avenue Association (GNMAA), the same organization that produces The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival® presented by Harris. That single day event attracts over one million visitors to The Magnificent Mile® district annually the weekend before Thanksgiving.  

In-Fashion: The Magnificent Mile Shopping Festival™ begins on Friday, August 26 with an interactive celebrity event featuring renowned stylist and television star, Carson Kressley, whose current projects include hosting the new make-over show Carson-Nation and co-hosting Your OWN Show: Oprah’s Search for the Next TV Star for Oprah Winfrey’s new OWN Network.

The large-scale celebration expects to include designer appearances, celebrity chef events, trunk shows, entertainment and more, concluding on September 8 with Chicago’s version of Fashion’s Night Out.

 As the first shopping festival of its kind in the United States, In-Fashion: The Magnificent Mile Shopping Festival takes the best of the shopping festivals that occur in international cities including Dubai, Singapore, Cannes and more.  The event invites consumers to shop, dine, explore and stay for a schedule of special events and promotions.  A raffle designed to reward visitors includes luxury prizes including a 5-night stay at the Fairmont Chicago Millennium Park valued at $20,000.

 In-Fashion reinforces The Magnificent Mile’s reputation as a shopping mecca with large-scale celebrations and district-wide, in-store promotions. The event cuts across five primary categories of fashion and beauty, lifestyle, culinary, technology and culture.  In-Fashion: The Magnificent Mile Shopping Festival will create excitement and motivate visitors as it brings together a roster of too-good-to-resist incentives and experiences.  

For more information, visit www.themagnificentmile.com

For more information about top events in Illinois take a look at the Top Events USA Page about Illinois.

Beach, Boogie & BBQ Festival in Myrtle Beach

Plan a Labor Day weekend getaway to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina from September 2 to 4 for the sixth annual Beach, Boogie & BBQ Festival at Grand Park at The Market Common.

The festival, now extended through Sunday, will feature finger lickin’ good barbecue and food from both vendors and competitors available for purchase, along with free live entertainment featuring American Idol’s Season 2 country crooner Josh Gracin. Three cooking events promise to attract the nation’s finest competitors.

Organized by the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, this family-friendly festival will also feature wake board demonstrations, free boat rides, activities for children, and a celebrity meet-and-greet with the Bravo’s Top Chef: Season 4 contestant and winner Richard Blais. 

But pork is the main star of this MBACC annual festival as attendees are able to sample delicious barbecue from all competing teams on Saturday, September 3, beginning at 12pm. by purchasing a $10 wristband while supplies last. Children under 10 can sample for free, and barbecue sandwich combos and dinners will also be available for purchase. Beer and wine will be sold all three days.

For the first time in Beach, Boogie and BBQ history, attendees will also be able to enjoy a wide variety of wings on Sunday, September 4. Look on as hungry competitors challenge one another in a wing-eating competition or as children take on a summer’s favorite fruit in a watermelon-eating contest. A variety of great prizes await the winners, as well as free watermelon for all Sunday attendees at 2pm. while supplies last. 

The Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce serves Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Surfside Beach, Little River, Atlantic Beach, Garden City Beach, Loris, Conway, Aynor, Murrells Inlet, Litchfield Beach and Pawleys Island. 

For more information, visit www.grandstrandevents.com/

For more information about top events in South Carolina take a look at the Top Events USA selection of the annual main festivals and events in South Carolina. 

Toledo Area’s Oldest, Largest and Greatest Ethnic Festival

How fast can you eat soft, baked pretzels? To find out, join the Brezelessen (pretzel eating) competition at the 46th German-American Festival, the Toledo area’s oldest, largest and greatest ethnic festival with authentic German food, beer, and entertainment from August 26 to 28. 

The German-American Festival is spread over 10 wooded acres providing an authentic German atmosphere at Oak Shade Grove, 3624 Seaman Road, Oregon, Ohio, just ½ mile east of Coy Road.  

The Festival is sponsored by the seven German- and Swiss-American Societies in Toledo. Its purpose is to promote and enhance the German and Swiss cultures and to generate revenue to support the German and Swiss cultural center in Oregon, Ohio, and a wide variety of scholarship, athletic and other philanthropic programs in the Toledo area.

The opening ceremony parade will feature colorful costumes and pageantry through the Festival grounds.

Just few of the many highlights include continuous live music at 3 stages from local Germanic and ethnic bands, a huge wooden dance floor in the main tent, plus other dance floors on the Festival grounds. The Schwabenhalle Outdoor Pavilion renamed the Hofbräuhalle features rain or shine entertainment throughout the day and evening. The Hummel Look-Alike Contest is a contest for all children from 2 to 10 years of age by pre-application.  There are many amusement rides.

The Old World-style outdoor Bier & Wein Garten under the trees will feature large umbrella tables. A wooden dance floor with continuous German polkas and waltzes are featured there.  

There are over 70 acres of free, lighted parking with people movers to deliver you to the main entrance gate on Seaman Street.  A ashuttle bus service from five Toledo-area parking lots will deliver you right to the gate and safely return you to your car.

For more information on the German-American Festival in Oregon, Ohio visit www.germanamericanfestival.net

For more information about top events in Ohio take a look at the Top Events USA selection of the annual main festivals and events in Ohio. 

Flying Skillets, Pig Scrambles and Two-crust Pies

Maine's agriculture fairs aren't just fall season events. The fun, educational and spectator friendly fairs begin in July, with 14 of the state's 25 licensed fairs taking place before September. Many fairs offer free admission to children, have on-site parking for camping trailers and motorhomes, and some provide a tent camping area.

Organized in 1818, the Skowhegan State Fair is America's oldest consecutively running agricultural fair. See a western style team cow penning competition, the decathlon style Ag Olympics, and the winners from more than 6,000 exhibit entries for everything from squash doughnuts to handwoven scarves at the 193rd edition from August 11 to 20.

The Windsor Fair takes place August 28 to Labor Day and kicks off with the fair Queen Pageant, a demolition derby, the Giant Pumpkin and Squash Contest weigh-in, and a draft horse and draft pony show. 

The Blue Hill Fair runs September 1 to 5 with a blueberry pie eating contest, lumberjack demonstrations, traditional 4-H animal showings, the Northeast U.S. Sheep Dog Trials, the ladies skillet toss contest, live music and fireworks.

For more information about Maine's summer events, go to www.visitmaine.com

For more information about top events in Maine take a look at the Top Events USA selection of the annual main festivals and events in Maine. 

Scottish Irish Festival in Hamilton, Montana

Experience the pride and history of your ancestors from across the pond in the Bitterroot Valley of Montana where the Bitterroot Scottish Irish Festival is a weekend of family fun, history and competitions from August 26 to 28.

Located on the grounds of the historic Daly Mansion outside of Hamilton, Montana, the festival brings together people, families, vendors, athletes and musicians in a beautiful park-like setting for two and half days of celebration of all things Scottish and Irish. 

From the Ceilidh (Kay-lee) a meet and greet, sing and dance celebration that opens the festival on Friday evening to the Kirkin' o' the Tartan' non denominational services on Sunday morning, everyone will come away with hope they have Scottish or Irish blood somewhere. 

Listen in awe to the Mass Pipe Bands as they parade at the Grand Opening ceremonies noon on Saturday, followed by representatives of over 25 Clans. Encourage the athletes in their endeavors to throw cabers and stones to the heights of the best ability. 

Find your long lost heritage by visiting the Clan history tents. Watch the energy and agility of the Scottish Highland and Irish dancers. Taste traditional foods and some more well known. Stroll the grounds to visit the many talented craftsman and vendors for more avenues to connect with your heritage. 

Sample locally made wines, beers and cider. Listen to the many bands that have travelled to entertain you. The Main Stage will be filled all day long. Saturday evening, join for an after festival concert featuring Potcheen, the ultimate party pirate Irish band. Come away with a feeling of enjoyment fulfilled, curiousity peaked and excitement that you have found something special that will never leave your heart.

For more information on the Bitterroot Scottish Irish Festival visit www.bitterrootscottishirishfestival.org/

For more information about top events in Montana take a look at the Top Events USA selection of the annual main festivals and events in Montana. 

A Gathering of Cornish Cousins

The heritage of Cornish settlers will be celebrated at the 16th International Gathering of Cornish Cousins (and the 19th annual Cornish Festival) at Mineral Point, Wisconsin from August 10 to 14.

Cornwall is one of the seven Celtic countries. Every two years Cornish culture, music, history, foods and language is celebrated in the US or Canada in a place that was settled by the Cornish. 

Most settlements were in mining areas, as the Cornish were known for their mining skills. Some of the people that came to this continent from north Cornwall were farmers and they settled in agricultural friendly areas.  

On the day before the Gathering, there are bus trips to interesting places amongst the lead mines of Southwest Wisconsin.

The Southwest Wisconsin Cornish Society was organized in 1991. The purpose of the Society is to “preserve our Cornish heritage, to preserve our Cornish identity, and to strengthen our ties with our Cornish relatives and friends.” Another purpose is to educate visitors and local folks alike, of the history and uniqueness of the Cornish presence in Mineral Point and Southwest Wisconsin.

Records from the Cornwall Family History Society is available online in Southwest Wisconsin for researching Cornish ancestors.

Mineral Point is a charming little community reminiscent of a rural English village, nestled in the beautiful rolling hills of southwest Wisconsin. In 1971 the entire city was listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the first Wisconsin city to receive that designation.

For more information on the International Gathering of Cornish Cousins visit www.cornishfest.org or www.cousinjack.org

For more information about top events in Wisconsin take a look at the Top Events USA selection of the annual main festivals and events in Wisconsin. 

River Raisin Jazz Festival Overflows with Superstars

The completed lineup for this year’s big 10^th Anniversary River Raisin Jazz Festival on the banks of the Historic River Raisin in Downtown Monroe, Michigan, from August 12 to 14 shows a star-studded weekend of free entertainment. 

But that may not come as a surprise to the River Raisin Jazz Festival “Family” that producer John Patterson refers to so affectionately. “Our audiences come from far and wide to see the best entertainers in the business and we work very hard to make sure that is exactly what they’ll find here in Monroe”, Patterson beamed when laying out the schedule for this year’s event. 

 “I was so proud to accept the Governor’s Award earlier this year from Michigan Governor Rick Snyder. This event represents the best of Monroe and the best of Michigan. We have hosted the biggest names in the business, Sanborn, Botti, Mangione, Rippington’s, Braun, Elliot…the list goes on. This year to help celebrate 10 years of awesome August weekends in Monroe, it is only fitting that we ask the Biggest name to be with us.” 

The Biggest name in the business is of course Kenny G, who will perform on Saturday evening August 13 with Alexander Zonjic & Friends. But the celebration will begin Friday evening August 12 at 6 pm with the Annual Preview Party, this year in St. Mary’s Park and starring super group “New Odyssey”. Saturday, the River Raisin Big Band (the official “house band” of the River Raisin Jazz Festival) will open the festival in keeping with tradition. 

For other big names and more information about the award-winning River Raisin Jazz Festival contact John Patterson at RiverRaisinJazzFestival@monroeinfo.com or visit Monroe County at www.MonroeInfo.com  

For more information about top events in Michigan take a look at the Top Events USA selection of the annual main festivals and events in Michigan. 

A Wrightsville N.C. Beach Summer Tradition

Move over boys of summer, surfer girls rule the waves on August 20 and 21 when nearly 200 wahines (female surfers) compete in the 15^th annual East Coast Wahine Championship at Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina.

This all-female surfing competition is a fine example of the water sport events that take place annually in Wilmington, NC and the island beaches of Carolina Beach, Kure Beach and Wrightsville Beach.

The event marks 15 years of competitive women’s surfing in Wrightsville Beach. This year the competition moves north to the Columbia Street beach access due to its proximity to a popular surf break and to a number of businesses, restaurants and amenities in the heart of Wrightsville Beach. All eyes will be on the surf action at the Columbia Street (C-Street) break when the East Coast’s largest all-female surfing competition gets underway, beginning at 8a.m. and until 5p.m. each day. 

In 1997, the East Coast WahineChampionship was the first all-female amateur surfing contest on the East Coast. Each year, girls of all ages and abilities convene in Wrightsville Beach to compete in Shortboard, Longboard, and Bodyboard divisions. A Novice division is open to surfer girls who have never before been in a contest; any size board is welcome. There’s also the ever-popular Guppy division (parental assistance allowed) for the age 10 and under surfers and body-boarders (Guppies surf Sunday only).  

The North Carolina island beaches of Carolina Beach, Kure Beach, and Wrightsville Beach are renowned as great places to learn to surf. 

For information on accommodations and a complete calendar of events in Wilmington, North Carolina and the island beaches of Carolina Beach, Kure Beach and Wrightsville Beach visit www.gocapefearcoast.com 

For more information about top events in North Carolina take a look at the Top Events USA selection of the annual main festivals and events in North Carolina.