Sacramento Convention & Visitors Bureau

This Week: Sacramento's Abuzz with Activity
Email support@sacramento365.com to get the Top 10 Events Newsletter delivered to your inbox.

		Food & Wine: Science & Sushi Oshima Sushi & Fugu Lounge April 17 Tues 6:30pm-8pm Trivia! Beer! Sushi! Science! Join for a quick science presentation followed by a pub quiz. Bragging rights & beer glasses for the winners.
		Music: Buzzcocks Ace of Spades April 19 Thurs 7pm With their crisp melodies, driving guitars, and guitarist Pete Shelley's biting lyrics, the Buzzcocks are one of the best, most influential punk bands.
		Special Events: Raw Artists Showcase: Menagerie Miami Beach Nightclub April 19 Thurs 8pm-Midnight Enjoy an evening full of local, hand-picked talent featuring a film screening, musical performance, fashion show, art gallery, performance art and a featured hairstylist and makeup artist. This is Sacramento nightlife you don't want to miss!
		Theatre: The Improvised Shakespeare Company Mondavi Center - Jackson Hall April 19-April 22 Thurs-Sat 8pm; Sun 3pm & 7pm Based on an audience suggestion, this group creates a fully improvised play in Elizabethan style. Each of the players has brushed up on his "thee's" & "thou's" to bring you an evening of off-the-cuff comedy using the language & themes of William Shakespeare.
		Comedy: Claude Stuart Laughs Unlimited April 19-April 22 Thurs 8pm; Fri & Sat 8pm & 10:30pm; Sun 7pm Claude's explosive, in-your-face, rapid-fire, madman stage style is truly an exhilarating assault on the senses. His unique brand of Don Rickles-esque crowd interaction, coupled with clever well-written jokes makes him a "comedy triple threat!"
		Special Events: Breakfast at Tiffany's: Bubbles & Bling Crest Theatre April 20 Fri 5:30pm-9pm *Screening 7pm Grab your girlfriends or your sweetheart and come enjoy champagne, appetizers, desserts, a huge silent auction, a photo booth, live music by The Honey Trees, and a showing of the classic film Breakfast at Tiffany's on the big screen!
		Festivals: Storytelling Festival: Spring into Stories Carol's Books April 21 Sat 10am-10pm Storytelling, dance, music, and poetry all meld together to create Sacramento's 1st Storytelling Festival: Spring into Stories.
		Festivals: SactoMoFo 4: Mobile Food Festival 6th & X Streets April 21 Sat 11am-6pm Sacramento outdoor activities pick up in springtime. Come out & enjoy 27+ mobile food vendors and enough choices of food and drink to satisfy even the pickiest eater--and to make any serious foodie swoon--plus kids activities and live music throughout the event!
		Festivals: Sacramento International Film Festival Artisan Building April 21-April 29 Daily, times vary See some of the world's best filmic talent, both globally and locally, with over a week of films, workshops, and special events.
		Festivals: Sacramento Earth Day Celebration Southside Park April 22 Sun 11am-5pm Celebrate Earth Day with entertainment, activities, and cuisine, plus diverse business, non-profit, cultural, & government vendors with practical information, goods, and services for saving money, living healthier, & protecting the environment.

 
Sacramento365.com News

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Earth Day Celebrations

Give back to your planet by celebrating Earth Day this Sun, April 22.

Check out our Holiday Events section for options!

Featured Local Artist of the Month: Daniel Mendoza

Learn more about this talented painter & poet by reading his Featured Artist Profile.

Make It A Night with Sacramento365.com

Learn how you can!

Want the chance for more discounts or free tickets to shows?

Sacramento365.com does regular ticket giveaways on our Facebook fan page. Become a fan to be notified of deals, discounts, and the chance to win free tickets to events!

There are always lots of things to do in Sacramento California. Find these events and many more on Sacramento365.com - the year-round source for Sacramento events.

Do you have an event coming up? Make sure it's on Sacramento365.com, the Sacramento Calendar of Events.

There are some new and exciting developments in the Sacramento Convention & Visitors Bureau “Goldology” program.  "Goldology" is defined as “a study of finding student-friendly treasure in Sacramento, especially with reference to performance venues, educational growth and historic significance.”  We have been working hard to create some new student-friendly events and collateral materials for your groups.
 

• Student Activity Book.  Please contact me if you would like a sample of our brand-new Sacramento Student Activity Book.  The book includes a detailed Gold Rush history, crossword puzzle, word find and more.  Students are encouraged to tell us their favorite thing they learned while they were in Sacramento.  We will provide prizes for the best answers!  For your group to be eligible to receive the Student Activity Book, a one-night minimum stay in a Sacramento hotel is required.

• California Capital Vocal Jazz & Show Choir Festival.  This event was held over two days in March at the Woodlake Hotel in Sacramento.  Nine schools and 15 choirs participated in the event that featured two days of competition, a karaoke dance, an option to see “Mamma Mia!” at a discounted rate at the Community Center Theatre, and an awards ceremony.  We plan for this event to grow exponentially each year, so contact us to learn more about your group performing in this event next year.  We are already in the process of planning the 2013 festival, so be on the lookout for more information.

• Performance Venues.  Speaking of performance groups, we know that you have several groups that may be interested in performing in venues throughout the city.  The Sacramento Convention & Visitors Bureau can arrange this for you. Click here for a pdf of student-friendly performance venues.  I would be thrilled to arrange one of these venues for one of your performance groups.

Choose the Sacramento Convention & Visitors Bureau for all your Sacramento student and youth travel and itinerary needs.  Sacramento offers a variety of educational experiences from history and government to environmental to agricultural.  The Capital City is also an ideal destination for performance groups as there are numerous performing venues in and around the city.  We're safe, affordable and above all, student and youth friendly!  You may visit our Goldology webpage at www.discovergold.org/students.  Please feel free to contact me with any of your student travel needs. 
 

This Week: Be on the Hunt for Libations & Revelry
Email support@sacramento365.com to get the Top 10 Events Newsletter delivered to your inbox.

		Food & Wine: Mastermind Pub Hunt Begins from Sutter's Fort April 10 Tues 6:30pm Love treasure hunts? Love beer? Be here! Solve clues that lead you to different locations. The first team to the pub with all clues solved gets bragging rights & a round of beers!
		Music: Brokedown in Bakersfield Harlow's April 12 Thurs 7pm A collective of acclaimed West Coast artists join forces in a spirited tribute to the Bakersfield sound: California country music made raw and rocking, spiked with twang and sweetened with heartfelt harmonies.
		Music: Banjo-Rama 2012 Red Lion Hotel April 13-April 15 Fri & Sat Noon-9pm; Sun Noon-5pm Enjoy a weekend of banjo performances featuring locally, nationally, and internationally renowned artists. Come enjoy the fun and the toe-tapping music.
		Festivals: 44th Annual Bockbierfest Sacramento Turn Verein April 13-April 14 Fri 6pm-Midnight; Sat 3pm-Midnight Sacramento's version of the Bockbierfest includes lively German music by the Sacramento Turner Harmonie, Bavarian folk dancing, German food, coffee cake, and Bockbier flowing like the Sacramento River.
		Food & Wine: Wine & Chocolate: A Harmony of Tastes Beatnik Studios April 13 Fri 7:30pm Join as the finest confectioners compete with delectable chocolate desserts to benefit the Sacramento Children's Chorus.
		Theatre: Woody Guthrie's American Song West Sacramento Community Center Ongoing-April 29 Fri & Sat 8pm; Sun 2pm Come experience the words and music of one of America's greatest folk poets and champion of the common citizen. A large cast of actors, singers, and musicians bring Woody Guthrie's music to life.
		Festivals: Festival of the Arts Sacramento State April 14-April 21 Daily, times vary The revelry includes attractions during the day and evening including theatre, music performances, visual art works, performances by faculty and staff in the Library Galleries, modern dance, literature, and more.
		Dance: Fiesta Mexicana celebrating International Day of Dance John F. Kennedy High School April 14 Sat 7:30pm Instituto Mazatlan Bellas Artes School, the Sacramento-based Mexican folk dance group, presents Fiesta Mexicana (Mexican Fiesta). Magic and color intertwines with traditional dances and authentic regional outfits highlights the colorfulness and versatility of Mexico's national musics.
		2nd Saturday Activities: -2nd Sat Coffee Bike Tour: Broadacre Coffee, 10am -Annual Spring Flowers Show: Kennedy Gallery, 3pm-9pm -2nd Sat SCVNGR Hunt: Fremont Park, 5:30pm-8:30pm See more 2nd Sat events>
		Sports & Rec: Jackie Robinson Day with the Sacramento River Cats Raley Field April 15 Sun 1:05pm Sacramento outdoor activities are starting up as the weather brightens with springtime! In this baseball game against the Reno Aces, the River Cats honor Jackie Robinson, the Hall of Fame second baseman who broke baseball's color barrier with the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1947.

 
Sacramento365.com News

Join Sac365 on Twitter & Facebook to get the day-to-day scoop on Sacramento's happenings.

Featured Local Artist of the Month: Daniel Mendoza

Learn more about this talented painter & poet by reading his Featured Artist Profile.

 Make It A Night with Sacramento365.com

Learn how you can!

Want the chance for more discounts or free tickets to shows?

Sacramento365.com does regular ticket giveaways on our Facebook fan page. Become a fan to be notified of deals, discounts, and the chance to win free tickets to events!

There are always lots of things to do in Sacramento California. Find these events and many more on Sacramento365.com - the year-round source for Sacramento events.

Do you have an event coming up? Make sure it's on Sacramento365.com, the Sacramento Calendar of Events.

This Week: Take to Spring with Theatre & Earthly Delights
Email support@sacramento365.com to get the Top 10 Events Newsletter delivered to your inbox.

		Kids & Fam: Spring Carnival on The Boulevard Rite Aid/O'Reilly Parking Lot April 4-April 8 Wed-Sun Noon-10pm Enjoy five days of family fun during Spring Break with rides for all ages, games of chance and skill, corndogs, and cotton candy!
		Film: Thurs 'Til 9: Film Frame: Women Art Revolution Crocker Art Museum April 5 Thurs 6:30pm-8pm Judy Chicago, Miriam Schapiro, Judith Baca, & other legendary artists paint a new picture of the feminist art movement in this documentary. Feminist art pioneer & Sac State professor Vicki Hall will introduce the film and offer post-screening remarks.
		Theatre: An Evening with Groucho Crest Theatre April 5 Thurs 7:30pm This fast-paced, two-act comedy includes some of the best Groucho one-liners, anecdotes, and songs.
		Theatre: Talking With... Artisan Building Ongoing-April 22 Thurs-Sat 8pm; Sun 2pm A snake handler, daughter, baton twirler, washed-up rodeo cowgirl, tattoed woman, and older woman in the twilight of her life talk about their experiences in the poetic language that Jane Martin is known for bringing to all her stage characters.
		Special Events: Creek Week Various Sacramento locations April 6-April 14 Dates & times vary During Creek Week young & old will enjoy, explore, learn about, & work to protect local creeks and aquatic life through a variety of activities. Take part in Sacramento outdoor activities while helping the environment!
		Festivals: Earth Fest Sacramento Zoo April 7 Sat 9am-4pm It's a party for the planet! Learn how to protect and preserve the earth with environmental, wildlife, and conservation organizations and partake in many activities. Don't forget to stop by the Recycle Rummage Sale inside the Kampala center for a great bargain.
		Special Events: Living History Easter Promenade & Spring Ball Sacramento History Museum April 7 Sat 11am & 2pm Dress up in your favorite Easter finery & celebrate in high style through the streets of Old Sac!
		Music: Come Back Spring Geery Theatre April 7 Sat 7pm-8:30pm Come Back Spring features heartwarming, intimate acoustic performances by Jeremiah Jacobs and special guests Hero's Last Mission and Autumn Sky.
		Theatre: Relapse: A Retelling of the Orpheus Myth with Shakespeare's Sonnets John Natsoulas Center for the Arts April 7-April 15 Thurs & Sat 8pm; Sun 7pm See the Davis Shakespeare Ensemble like never before! Join on a journey to the Underworld through music, movement, and sonnets. Experience how Shakespeare's poetry stimulates the human form in a sonic space.
		Music: Over the Rhine Harlow's April 8 Sun 7pm Over the Rhine's music is post-nuclear, pseudo-alternative, folk-tinged art-pop. This husband-and-wife team celebrate their 20-year musical anniversary with a rare acoustic performance.

 
Sacramento365.com News

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Happy Easter!

Looking for activities? Check out our Holiday Events section!

Featured Local Artist of the Month: Daniel Mendoza

Learn more about this talented painter & poet by reading his Featured Artist Profile.

Have you Made It A Night yet?

Learn how you can!

Want the chance for more discounts or free tickets to shows?

Sacramento365.com does regular ticket giveaways on our Facebook fan page. Become a fan to be notified of deals, discounts, and the chance to win free tickets to events!

There are always lots of things to do in Sacramento California. Find these events and many more on Sacramento365.com - the year-round source for Sacramento events.

Do you have an event coming up? Make sure it's on Sacramento365.com, the Sacramento Calendar of Events.

This Week: Don't be Foolish: Appreciate Silence and Sound
Email support@sacramento365.com to get the Top 10 Events Newsletter delivered to your inbox.

		Film: Silents Were Golden Creative Vera Studio March 27 Tues 6pm The silent film era produced films of lasting beauty, power, & merit. Come celebrate these films with wine, light fare, & a discussion led by writer & film buff Cliff Weimer.
		Music: Jackie Evancho Community Center Theater March 28 Wed 7:30pm Eleven-year-old Jackie Evancho's unique, gorgeous soprano has won her millions of fans and her recordings have dominated the music and DVD charts.
		Music: Goapele Harlow's March 29 Thurs 10pm Singer/songwriter Goapele seamlessly blends genres while refusing to be limited by the "neo-soul" tag. This eloquent voice completed her first release, Closer, in 2001 and never looked back.
		Sacramento Nightlife: Final Fri: Arts, Music, & Pub Crawl Beatnik Studios March 30 Fri Crawl 5pm-8pm; Reception 6pm-9pm; Music 9pm-11:30pm In addition to celebrating the original art work in Tower and the Broadway Icons, this month's Final Friday includes a pub crawl along the Broadway Corridor, a reception with local food trucks, and music by The Gins & Full Melt.
		Comedy: Neil Hamburger Sacramento Comedy Spot March 30 Fri 9pm Neil Hamburger's live act features a barrage of question/answer jokes often aimed at celebrity targets.
		Special Events: 3rd Annual Easter Egg Hunt for Dogs McKinley Park March 31 Sat 11am-1pm Bring your furry friend to Wag Hotel's Egg Hunt, where dogs will be able to sniff out eggs filled with delectable treats, & much more.
		Museums: Weekend Excursion Train Rides California State Railroad Museum March 31-Sept 30 Sat & Sun 11am-5pm *Trains depart every hour on the hour Journey along the Sacramento River while enjoying sights, smells, & sounds of authentic locomotives rolling down the tracks.
		Music: Streets of Soul/Once Upon a Time featuring Early States Artisan Building March 31 Sat 6pm This musical extravaganza features performances by Early States, Autumn Sky, Hero's Last Mission, Bell Boys, and James Cavern. A night full of indie pop and rock is sure to get your foot tapping!
		Sacramento Nightlife: 3rd Annual Serge Gainsbourg Birthday Party 1630 I St, Sacramento March 31 Sat 8pm Celebrate French icon Serge Gainsbourg with music by DJ Christophe and DJ Roger, live tribute bands, film clips, and a psychedelic light show by pioneering liquid light show artist George Holden.
		Special Events: April Fool's Sacramento History Central Library April 1 Sun 2pm-4pm Come attend a historical lecture by renowned resident historians James Scott, Tom Tolley, and Amanda Graham, who will speak with vivid manner upon incredible occurrences in Sacramento history.

 
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Promote Your Business with Make It A Night

While standard listings (name, address, phone) on Make It A Night are free to all businesses, enhanced listings are available at an additional cost and include a picture, web link, description, and video.

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 Featured Local Artist of the Month: Steve Hamm

Learn about designer, artist, and artisan Steve Hamm in his Featured Artist Profile.

Want the chance for more discounts or free tickets to shows?

Sacramento365.com does regular ticket giveaways on our Facebook fan page. Become a fan to be notified of deals, discounts, and the chance to win free tickets to events!

There are always lots of things to do in Sacramento California. Find these events and many more on Sacramento365.com - the year-round source for Sacramento events.

Do you have an event coming up? Make sure it's on Sacramento365.com, the Sacramento Calendar of Events.

A group of college friends conceived of an idea based on a passion: produce concerts that give back to the community. Formed in 1999, Concerts 4 Charity (C4C) obtained official 501(c)3 nonprofit status in 2002, and has since expanded from its humble beginnings in Worcester, Massachusetts to several locations across the country, following the initial founders as they dispersed after graduating. Along with Worcester, chapters are now present in Portland, Maine; Ashland, North Carolina; Atlanta, Georgia; and Sacramento, California.

The Sacramento Chapter, run by founding member Clay Nutting (pictured at right), focuses on causes he is devoted to: music, arts education, and supporting the local music community. Clay says, “I want kids to have an opportunity to participate in the arts, even if it’s only a handful at a time. And I want artists to succeed. I want artists to have platforms for what they love to do, and in turn inspire the community through their creativity.”

Concerts 4 Charity strives to produce at least one or two concerts per month (sometimes more, sometimes less) and, Clay says, “The formula is pretty simple: I put on shows and use the money to start or support music and/or art programs, or I give it all away to the artists.” March has already seen a Beer Week show at Bows & Arrows featuring The Golden Cadillacs, Hot Tar Roofers, and Noah Nelson; La Sera & Cold Showers (also at Bows); and Vetiver, Two Sheds, and Not An Airplane at Blue Lamp.

Sacramento is important to Clay, and his view on the ultimate benefit of C4C to the Sacramento community is three-fold: “First, if the money goes to a kid to get them involved in the arts, who know what kinds of doors that exposure is opening up for them. Second, if the money goes to the artists, I know they are getting paid for what they love to do (which sadly doesn’t happen all the time), and I can guarantee you that money is going right back into the local economy. Third, people get to see a great show. I can’t tell you how important it is to expose our community to more live music and art. The more they are exposed to it, the more likely they are to come out and support the creative community again.“

In addition to putting on a regular shows, Concerts 4 Charity also collaborates on producing a couple larger, annual events: the Sacramento Electronic Music Festival (SEMF) in May and Launch in July, both of which are set to be bigger and better in 2012 than years prior. SEMF is moving from its previous home at TownHouse to Harlow’s and the adjacent Momo Lounge, meaning it will be able to accommodate more artists and more attendees. This move is along the lines of SEMF’s goal “to put on a great festival that encourages artists to come to Sacramento more often, gives them a sense of what our music community is capable of, and inspires our music community by putting on a really rad show,” Clay says. Launch is expanding from a one day event to a multi-day excursion and will include a sequence of curated events across Midtown & Downtown before culminating in a huge music and art festival on July 28. Clay says the idea is to “build a mini SXSW for Sacramento with diverse acts, music, art, and design.”

Clay works full-time for marketing firm 3Fold Communications, who is fully supportive of his “hobby,” and no matter how hectic his schedule or how limited his time, C4C stays strong and true to its mission. Clay says, “At one time I counted over 400 kids sponsored through our programs, but I stopped counting...I just keep raising a few bucks and giving it away.”

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This article is part of a monthly feature by Sacramento365.com on local arts organizations and businesses making a difference in the Sacramento community.

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Written by Sacramento365.com Assistant Editor, Alison Kranz

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Photo credits: Image 1: C4C logo; Image 2: Clay Nutting by Amanda Chaffee; Image 3: !!! by Nick Avey; Image 4: Tycho at SEMF by JetStreamProjector.com; Image 5: Ballet + Live Local Music by Barry Wisdom (Sacramento Press)

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There are always lots of things to do in Sacramento California. Find these events and many more on Sacramento365.com - the year-round source for Sacramento events.

Do you have an event coming up? Make sure it's on Sacramento365.com, the Sacramento Calendar of Events.

Follow us on Twitter or become a fan on Facebook to get day-to-day scoop on Sacramento's happenings.

Email support@sacramento365.com to get the Top 10 Events Newsletter delivered to your inbox.

This Week: Leap Forward into Spring
Email support@sacramento365.com to get the Top 10 Events Newsletter delivered to your inbox.

		Music: Straight No Chaser Crest Theatre March 20 Tues 8pm If "male a cappella group" conjures up students in blue blazers, ties, & khakis singing traditional college songs--think again. SNC are reinventing the idea of a cappella on the modern pop landscape.
		Special Events: Rockin' & Rollin' Sacramento Ballet Studios March 21 & March 23 Wed & Fri 5pm Join the Sacramento Ballet for a rockin' good time with photography by local artists, music by local musicians, and a dance performance of excerpts from Modern Masters.
		Theatre: True West Capital Stage March 21-April 22 Wed 7pm; Thurs-Sat 8pm; Sun 2pm In this deliciously dark play of duality, Sam Shepard takes a long, hard look at America, from the romanticized West to the tranquility of picket-fenced suburbia.
		Comedy: Kevin James & Ray Romano Community Center Theater March 22 Thurs 8pm Ray Romano & Kevin James perform here for one night only as part of their first co-headlining stand-up comedy tour.
		Music: Kevin Russell Torch Club March 23 Fri 9pm Singer, songwriter, and talented multi-instrumentalist Kevin Russell plays guitar, mandolin, 5-string banjo, resophonic guitar, and sings both lead and harmony vocals. Come partake in Sacramento nightlife & see this ever-changing musical legend play live!
		Sports & Rec: Donut Dash William Land Park March 24 Sat 8:30am Run, jog, or walk 2 miles through shady Land Park to Marie's Donuts, eat 4 donuts (or 6 donut holes or nothing at all), and then run 2 miles back.
		Museums: Twilight Open Cockpit Aerospace Museum March 24 Sat 4pm-8pm Come explore, climb into, or imagine what it would be like to soar through the skies in several of the many aircrafts on the ramp.
		Music: REMIX: Voices and Electronics St. John's Lutheran Church March 24-March 25 Sat 7pm; Sun 5pm This concert, featuring Vox Musica and Natasha Kmeto, is a lot electronic, a little bit electronica, & totally electrifying!
		Performing Arts: Circus Oz Mondavi Center - Jackson Hall March 24-March 25 Sat 8pm; Sun 3pm *Steam Punk Night begins 7pm on Sat The Circus Oz show is a rock-n-roll, animal-free circus that adults and children can enjoy together. Expect two hours of stupendous agility, death-defying stunts, awe-inspiring acrobatic performances, irreverent comedy, & spectacular live band.
		Kids & Fam: Free Family Concert Series Tsakopoulos Library Galleria March 25 Sun 1pm Camellia Symphony Orchestra's Family Concerts include an instrument petting zoo, "Funshops" for children to create art related to the musical experience, & concert.

 
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Make It A Night

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 Featured Local Artist of the Month: Steve Hamm

Learn about designer, artist, and artisan Steve Hamm in his Featured Artist Profile.

Want the chance for more discounts or free tickets to shows?

Sacramento365.com does regular ticket giveaways on our Facebook fan page. Become a fan to be notified of deals, discounts, and the chance to win free tickets to events!

There are always lots of things to do in Sacramento California. Find these events and many more on Sacramento365.com - the year-round source for Sacramento events.

Do you have an event coming up? Make sure it's on Sacramento365.com, the Sacramento Calendar of Events.

St. Patrick's Day is on a Saturday this year, which means many events start early and go late. If you are up for an all-day affair, head to MiX Downtown, which kicks off their festivities bright and early at 6am. At 8am you can mosey next door to de Vere's for their annual Pub Party (note that the block party is not occurring this year).

Many other local haunts are serving Irish-themed food & drink specials during their open hours as well, including: O'Mally's Irish Pub, Club 2 Me, Fox & Goose, Streets of London, Bonn Lair, and The Golden Bear.

If you're looking to hop from spot to spot, consider one of the several pub crawl/block party options (perhaps the one closest to stumbling distance from your house?). There's one in The Sutter District and one in the R Street Corridor (14th-15th Streets), as well as 5Hundy Social Club's 7th Annual Crawl which kicks off at Blue Cue and traverses all the way across town before ending at Shenanigans.

But, not all St. Patrick's Day celebrations center around food & drink. If you're looking for something family-friendly, head to Old Sacramento for the 16th Annual St. Patrick's Day Parade, led this year by the Girl Scouts in honor of their 100 year anniversary. Or, take your kids to the Sacramento Children's Museum for Green Day, where, if you're wearing green, you'll receive half-off admission.

Feeling philanthropic? Join in at the 2nd Annual Green Tie Affair at Kennedy Gallery Art Center and help raise funds for C.G.N.I.E.'s La Kish Hayworth Memorial Scholarship Fund. Or, attend the "An Evening with Cary Farley" concert at the Guild Theater in benefit of the Mustard Seed School Sacramento.

No matter what activity you opt for this St. Patrick's Day, don't forget that, as always, safety is the priority!

Once again, Berg Injury Lawyers is offering their Safe and Sober program for St. Patrick's Day revelers. The program provides free cab rides (up to $35) on Sat, March 17, from 3pm-3am. Call Yellow Cab Company of Sacramento at (916) 444-2222 and simply tell them the ride is on Berg Injury Lawyers. Patrons must be picked up at a participating restaurant, hotel, or bar within Downtown Sacramento to qualify for a free ride.

New this year is the Sac Town Hopper which, for only $10, will pick you up near Sacramento State and take you around downtown, picking up every hour on the hour, 9pm-2am, from four locations: R15/Shady Lady, de Vere's/MiX, Dive Bar/Social Nightclub, & BarWest/Momo Lounge. (Note that this service is not limited to St. Patrick's Day. It occurs every Friday & Saturday night.)

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See even more St. Patrick's Day Events in Sac365's Holiday Event section.

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Written by Sacramento365.com Assistant Editor, Alison Kranz

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There are always lots of things to do in Sacramento California. Find these events and many more on Sacramento365.com - the year-round source for Sacramento events.

Do you have an event coming up? Make sure it's on Sacramento365.com, the Sacramento Calendar of Events.

Follow us on Twitter or become a fan on Facebook to get day-to-day scoop on Sacramento's happenings.

Email support@sacramento365.com to get the Top 10 Events Newsletter delivered to your inbox.

Do you depend on booster clubs, parents and fans when it comes to the success of your team -- on and off the home field or home court? Could you use a reliable boost of support to help you plan and execute a well-run tournament?

It's no surprise that tournament directors and competition organizers recruit the Sacramento Convention & Visitors Bureau to assist with their volunteer-run events. Here are 3 reasons we can help you plan a successful tournament:

• Athletes and their families always rank #1.

We work hard off the field, so you can focus and do your best when game time matters. During the free time, athletes and their guests remain our first priority. Ask us how we can enhance their visitor experience.

From personal greetings at Sacramento International Airport and welcome signs at contracted hotels, our tournament services include exclusive discounts at premium shopping malls in addition to brochures and visitor guides.

• Put us in the game, Coach. We know venues, hotels, and more.

We have working relationships with a range of world-class venues from Lake Natoma to impressive facilities like Memorial Auditorium; affordable hotels; restaurants; shopping; and entertainment -- all conveniently located within close proximity. We'll even arrange transportation if you need it!

Furthermore, Sacramento has hosted an array of sports -- from USA Club Soccer to U.S. Fencing, high school wrestling to cross country, NCAA Division I volleyball to USA Track & Field Olympic team trials, and more. We bring the gold standard of professionalism to all levels of competition.  

• Promote your event with a customized web site.

You tell us the details. We listen, and then build your microsite -- so you can get back to the game! Access the site via smartphone for info on the go. It's faster & less costly than an app. Give 'em travel related info. when they want it.

By the way, housing is only a quick click away! Athletes and guests easily can book hotel rooms from a list that you choose to work with.

Before we forget to mention, we've got sunny weather -- without humidity. Athletes love our restaurants, many of which serve fruits, vegetables, even rice that's grown locally. Most of all, they enjoy the enthusiasm of our neighbors who gather to cheer on aspiring athletes. 

Contact Director of Sports Development, Brad Hillard, CSEE (bhillard@cityofsacramento.org) to talk about the needs of your tournament.

By Carol Dabrowiak

The evidence is right there.  As soon as someone points it out to you, you can see it.  A doorway or a window that was bricked in.  Remnants of columns that were left in a park.  It's pretty apparent there is a city of Sacramento below the City of Sacramento. 

When we took the Underground Sacramento Tour in Old Sacramento, we learned about the tragedies that befell Sacramento in the 1800s.  First floods washed away the city, then a fire destroyed it, then another epic flood and finally locusts.  OK, I made up the locust part.  But Sacramento had a rough go of it in the beginning.  

Finally the city fathers decided to raise the city up ten feet.  They started by raising the walkways.  But then the shops were below street level, and patrons had to climb up and down ladders to get to the shops.  So shop owners had to raise their own establishments.  They hired workers who used old-fashioned jacks to slowly crank the buildings up.  Some owners just built a new building on top of the structure down below.  It took 15 years to complete the project. 

Our tour guide, Miss Odette (in period costume) guided us through the lower levels in Old Sacramento.  She told us about the shops that would have been above us.  They included saloons, laundries and brothels.  There are also display cases with items recovered during the archeological dig such as ceramic dishes and whiskey bottles.  Everything a gold rush city needed in the 1800s.  It is a fascinating tour about an amazing engineering feat.

This tour is a Sacramento attraction that is not to be missed.  The new season of tours starts March 31.  To learn more about the Underground Sacramento Tour, click here for more information.
 

Sometimes traveling isn’t pleasant.  Gas prices, traffic jams and other factors can cause major anxiety on the way to your destination.  The trip to the destination is considered the means to an end.  Getting there could be considered the hard part.  What if the trip to the destination was part of the fun?  The Capitol Corridor is an excellent and convenient way to travel to Sacramento from the Bay Area.  There are several reasons you should consider using Amtrak and the Capitol Corridor when planning your next trip to Sacramento.

1. Convenience.  The Capitol Corridor provides direct train service to 16 stations along a 170-mile rail corridor between the Sierra Foothills, Sacramento, the Bay Area and Silicon Valley/San Jose.  Dedicated bus routes extend the service to various communities in Northern California.  If you live in Northern California and want to visit great Sacramento attractions, chances are you live conveniently close to one of these stations. 
2. Location.  The Sacramento Amtrak station is located in downtown Sacramento, walking distance from several Sacramento museums, hotels, attractions, shopping and restaurants.  Old Sacramento and the famous California State Railroad Museum are two blocks away from the station.  The train will drop you off in the heart of Sacramento – get off the train and start enjoying your vacation immediately.
3. Options.  There are several different ticket options tailored to your needs.  Discounts and promotions are often available for seniors, children, disabled persons and members of select organizations.  Amtrak also routinely offers specials to all of their riders, depending on the season.  Group travelers and frequent business travelers can also be eligible for special rates and discounts.  Plus, some Sacramento hotels offer special packages for travelers of the Capitol Corridor.
4. Stay Connected.  Did you know that Amtrak now offers free WiFi to passengers?  You don’t have to miss a thing when you travel.  You can plug your electronic devices into one of several surge-protected outlets located throughout the cabins, connect to the free WiFi and conduct your business without any interruptions or expensive fees.
5. Bring Your Own Connection.  Based on availability, you can bring your bicycle with you when traveling the Capitol Corridor.  The Sacramento area has world-class biking trails, including the American River Parkway, available for all cycling enthusiasts.  Sacramento is also a bike-friendly city with an abundance of bicycle racks for storage and bicycle lanes for travel.  Bring your bicycle, and enjoy all the fun things to do in Sacramento at your own pace.

Getting to Sacramento has never been easier and more convenient.  The Capitol Corridor is an excellent way to experience Sacramento.  Click here for more information about the Capitol Corridor.  Please visit our website to learn more about Sacramento attractions, accommodations and more to help you plan your visit to the Capital City.

This Week: An Invasion of Music & Family Fun for St. Patty's
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		Special Events: St. Baldrick's Day: Battle of the Pubs de Vere's Sacramento & Davis March 12 Mon 5pm-9pm Watch or participate as the community comes together to shave heads bald as a sign of solidarity with children who are fighting cancer.
		Theatre: Mamma Mia! Community Center Theater March 13-March 18 Tues-Sat 8pm; Sun 2pm *Add'tl 2pm shows Thurs & Sat It's your turn to have the time of your life at this smash-hit musical that combines ABBA's greatest hits with an enchanting tale of love, laughter, and friendship.
		Kids & Fam: Mommy & Me Day Raley Field March 14 Wed 10am-Noon Come out for a day with your children at Raley Field & enjoy free snacks and drinks, a special visit from your favorite mascot, Dinger, and on-field games and activities.
		Music: Radio Harlow's March 14 Wed 9pm Radio is a captivating, high-energy band that keeps a crowd on its feet with their innovative, modern approach & amazing blend of classic, fresh, & pure musical excitement.
		Music: Blake Shelton Power Balance Pavilion March 15 Thurs 7:30pm The Well Lit and Amplified Tour 2012 features reigning "Male Vocalist of the Year" and five-time CMA nominee, Blake Shelton, with special guests Justin Moore & Dia Frampton (from NBC's The Voice).
		Music: Flash Experience 2.0/Tracks for Assimilation Center for Contemporary Art, Sacramento March 16 Fri 7:30pm The Electro-Acoustic Music Collective performs eclectic sounds & noise in mathematically pleasing organizations.
		Festivals: St. Patrick's Day Parade Old Sacramento March 17 Sat 1pm Colorful marchers dressed in green, along with Irish and Highland dancers, pipe & drum bands, historic re-enactors & a variety of cultural organizations, join together to be a part of the Parade!
		Special Events: Art Poetry Jazz Live at The Center Sacramento Fine Arts Center March 17 Sat 7pm The Brubeck Institute Jazz Quintet & Poet Laureate of Sacramento, Bob Stanley, along with eight other prominent poets, present works inspired by the art at the Annual Animal House Art Exhibit.
		Performing Arts: Blast! Three Stages - Folsom March 17-March 18 Sat 8pm; Sun 2pm & 7pm In joining the showmanship of the drum corps with the artistry of the theatre, Blast! stands, blows, pounds, marches, and whirls with panache.
		Museums: VW Invasion California Automobile Museum March 18 Sun 9am-3pm Come and view some of the most cutting edge Volkswagens around and enjoy delicious food, live DJ, and fun!

 
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Celebrate St. Patty's Day this weekend

Browse our Holiday Events section and find a way to celebrate the luck o' the Irish!

Featured Local Artist of the Month: Steve Hamm

Learn about designer, artist, and artisan Steve Hamm in his Featured Artist Profile.

Want the chance for more discounts or free tickets to shows?

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There are always lots of things to do in Sacramento California. Find these events and many more on Sacramento365.com - the year-round source for Sacramento events.

Do you have an event coming up? Make sure it's on Sacramento365.com, the Sacramento Calendar of Events.

Have teens who want to avoid family vacations like the plague? Maybe they'll change their minds after hearing about downtown Sacramento tourist attractions that cater to them... and parents won't have to hear complaints!

Sports and Fitness
Cruise the capital in style. See the City of Trees from the seat of a bicycle. Family-owned Practical Cycle (916.706.0077) rents bikes made in the USA. Guided or self-guided tours get your teen exercising! Fast Eddie (916.812.2712) only offers guided tours; pricing includes bike rental.

Shock your X Games fan when you tell him or her to pack a helmet because the skate park at Sutter's Landing (916.808.5611) is on the itinerary. All sessions are supervised. Skateboarders, scooters and (inline) skaters are invited. The indoor street course features a bowl, quarter pipes, fun boxes, and grind rails -- can you picture it? Pro skaters Matt Pailes, Matt Rodriguez, and Omar Salazar are familiar faces.

When the sun goes down, student specials on glow-bowling appear at Capitol Bowl (916.371.4200). Remodeled. The 1950-era bowling alley is the first in the country to feature granite counters and restaurant-caliber dining. Don't wait til Thanksgiving to bowl a turkey! 

Another popular indoor activity is rock climbing. Pipeworks has a 40-foot-high lead wall with 11,000 square feet of climbing terrain -- plus 2,000 square feet of bouldering.

Entertainment
Ever read Teens are from Mars, Parents are from Earth? Shrink the generation gap when families laugh together. Sacramento Comedy Spot (916.444.3137) at MARRS -- the Midtown Art, Retail and Restaurant Scene -- is an all-ages venue featuring weekly improv, stand-up, and sketch comedy shows. Material rated 'PG-13' (parental guidance recommended, age 13 and older) to 'R' (restricted, age 17+).

If your youth enjoy music, free summer Concerts in the Park or the all-ages, indoor Ace of Spades event facility can introduce them (or you) to a wide variety of live, local music: from blues and country, to punk and indie, to pop and hip hop. During the outdoor park series, more than 40 bands play on Friday nights from 5 to 9 PM. The diversity of talent and ages on stage may inspire your guitarist to learn more than 'Stairway to Heaven'.

Discover more inspiration at the California Museum (916.653.7524), home of the California Hall of Fame. This cultural destination is popular for its modern and thought-provoking storytelling of the state's rich influence on the world of ideas, innovation, art and culture. Now through March 25th, Riding Concrete is a multimedia exhibit about skateboarding from California creation in the 1950s to its international appeal today. 

Food and Shopping
Schedule a power-ballad lunch or dinner at Pizza Rock (916.737.5777). World pizza-tossing champion, Tony Gemignani, opened his flagship artisan pizzeria in Sacramento to re-establish respect for his craft by using seasonal and organic ingredients. The ceiling mural, semi-truck cab, and energy certainly suggest you aren't at Chuck E. Cheese. 

Got an adventurous or epicurean eater or chef? Downtown Sacramento dining can take you on a culinary tour of the world. Join a Local Roots Food walking tour. Or browse farmers markets. 

Finally, indulge designers or stylists with a shopping tryst. Explore Midtown's concentration of new and vintage clothing stores plus record, home, and gift shops. And if you feel like driving them, Arden Fair mall (916.920.1167) is 10 minutes away!

Let your teen to discover Sacramento, shortlisted by BETA UK -- the British Educational Travel Association -- as the Best International Youth Destination.

Contact the Sacramento Convention & Visitors Bureau at tourism@discovergold.org to learn more about itineraries for traveling families with teenagers and tweens (pre-teens).
 

This Week: Celebrating Past Legacies & New Horizons
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		Film: Screening: Eames: The Architect & The Painter w/ Q&A Crest Theatre March 6 Tues 7:30pm This is a fascinating documentary dedicated to exploring the ground-breaking California couple behind the Eames Office and the legacy of their work in design and the arts.
		Special Events: SMAC. Open Daily. Various locations March 7-March 10 Wed-Sat, times vary The Arts Commission presents four days of workshops, events, and activities for arts lovers and the creative sector.
		Special Events: The Hackademy Awards Memorial Auditorium March 8 Thurs 6pm-9pm This Hollywood-style red carpet advocacy event is designed to educate youth and young adults about the impact of tobacco in movies. There will be a short presentation, refreshments, and live entertainment!
		Theatre: Legally Blonde The Musical 24th Street Theatre March 9-April 1 Fri & Sat 8pm; Sun 2pm Let sorority star Elle Woods prove that being true to yourself never goes out of style in this play by Runaway Stage Productions.
		Kids & Fam: Fairytale Town Goes Green Fairytale Town March 10 Sat 11am-3pm Join Fairytale Town & several local area organizations to learn how you & your family can go green.
		Festivals: Sacramento Food Film Festival Guild Theater March 10 Sat 10am-10pm One subject matter that arises again & again in documentary films is food! Enjoy films on the subject while enjoying healthy movie snacks courtesy of Whole Foods.
		Sports & Rec: USA Basketball Dream Tour MARRS Building March 10 Sat 1pm-4pm Get excited to watch the USA Basketball men's and women's national teams take on the world this summer, by getting a chance to meet some of USA Basketball's most popular legends, including Chris Mullin.
		2nd Saturday Activities: -John Stuart Berger's "50" Show: Fe Gallery, 6pm-9pm -Hanging in the Balance: Center for Contemporary Art Sacramento, 6pm-9pm -Desaturated: Beatnik Studios, 6pm-10pm See more 2nd Sat events>
		Festivals: Sacramento Jewish Film Festival Crest Theatre March 10-March 11 Sat 7pm & 9pm; Sun 1pm & 3:15pm The 2012 Sacramento Jewish Film Festival brings feature films from around the globe to the Crest. Four carefully chosen films represent the diversity of the Jewish culture.
		Dance: Camellia International Dance Festival Sacramento State - Union Ballroom March 11 Sun 1pm-8:30pm This annual dance performance program features local traditional cultural dance groups representing cultures from around the world, with easy dance lessons following the performance.

 
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Featured Local Artist of the Month: Steve Hamm

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Sacramento Theatre Company's Dial M For Murder

Read the review>

Want the chance for more discounts or free tickets to shows?

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There are always lots of things to do in Sacramento California. Find these events and many more on Sacramento365.com - the year-round source for Sacramento events.

Do you have an event coming up? Make sure it's on Sacramento365.com, the Sacramento Calendar of Events.

When you "Dial M for Murder" you dial a hit. What great fun! Yes, a murder mystery can have suspense and still have laughs.

The Sacramento Theatre Company has brought back a well-made play from the 1950s, later to be a Hitchcock film, and one of his best. The big star of this evening of fun and mayhem is Matt K. Miller as an aging tennis player afraid of losing his meal ticket wife. On stage Miller looks nothing like his all-American lobby photo so it’s a surprise to see him as a charming Englishman who is so manipulative and villainous.

The overly naive wife, Mrs. Wendice, is played by Jackie Vanderbeck. Poor Jackie is stuck with the simpering, helpless female of the time, but makes the best of it. She starts the play in a white dress with small black polka dots. Oh so fifties, and the hair is in a half page boy with rolls on the sides leaving a space for a hat. The hat comes on when it is time to leave the apartment (we can overlook the lack of gloves since they are just another thing for an actor to drop). Mrs. Wendice then appears in a lavender dress with a peplum. Oh my! Yes, the peplum is back—see page 305 of InStyle, March 2012, with Jennifer Aniston on the cover. A peplum is a short ruffle from the waist over a longer skirt, originally designed to hide Barbara Stanwick’s low slung rump.

And there is Barry Hubbard as the American pulp mystery writer for television. Barry towers over Miller and looks more the athletic type filling the stage quite nicely. It’s to Miller’s credit that he “James Cagney’s it out” with the taller man.

Now we come to the sleazebag Swan. Scott Divine with his thin moustache is the ultimate slime bag. I do love these characters. It’s shades of the Kray Brothers, but poor Swan is not as successful. Swan comes on stage to sell a car not belonging to him and within minutes has seen a way to make money and a killing—the wife. Poor Mrs. Wendice—now it’s two against her: her husband and a good-for-nothing killer.

It's a super play! Everything is clear and cleverly presented. Written by Frederick Knott, the story is certainly entertaining. Director Greg Alexander is strong at keeping a pace, yet making each plot point. Bravo!

There are only "…five important motives for murder: fear, jealousy, money, revenge, and protecting someone you love." All five are represented in the various colorful cast, but you must see it to find for yourself.

Even the usually thick-headed and indifferent police see through the plot. Gary Alan Wright comes on stage full force as the Police Inspector. When we first meet him he sees the case as open and shut. Ahhhh, but later the Inspector comes back with new views of the scene. We in the audience loved it. Thank you Gary the actor—you are so Wright, I mean so right. The big laugh of the play was Officer Thompson, played by Aaron Hitchcock, when he exits with evidence on his arm. You have to see it to understand.

It was the attention to detail that really set the mood for the story. Hats off to costumer McKayla Butym for bringing back memories with appropriate period attire. Especially notable was the 1950s classic gray suit back for the trial time of Mrs. Wendice. "The Gray Suit" was best seen on Kim Novak in Vertigo, but great on stage as well. The set was lovingly designed by Mims Mattair. Red walls—so fifties—and leaves stenciled as an upper border. Perfect. So "the fashion" for these sort of "now" people. Jessica Bertine set mood after mood with well-timed lighting. So much could have gone wrong, and didn't. And there is a Sound Designer, too. William Myers was right on cue with every phone call—and it's the old rotary phone, too.

What a good time in a wonderful theatre space. I got there early, as usual, so had a super chocolate chip cookie for only $1.  Not a bad night out for the money. It’s probably even cheaper than a movie once all the over-priced snacks are added in. Maybe it's time to go back to theatre.

A final note: at long last a Hairstylist is on a theatre Board of Directors.  We know theatre is business, but theatre should also be the right hair style for a time period.  How many times have we seen 1960 and later flowing hair on a Roaring Twenties lady, or on a 1940s female? Thanks to Neil SooHoo for watching from your Board position for these humorous mistakes.

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Written by Ruth Chambers, Visitor Center Concierge

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Dial M for Murder runs through March 25. Tickets are still available.

The Sacramento Theatre Company's season of "mystery, music, and mayhem" continues with Barrymore (March 28-May 6) and Little Shop of Horrors (April 25-May 20).

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There are always lots of things to do in Sacramento California. Find these events and many more on Sacramento365.com - the year-round source for Sacramento events.

Do you have an event coming up? Make sure it's on Sacramento365.com, the Sacramento Calendar of Events.

Follow us on Twitter or become a fan on Facebook to get day-to-day scoop on Sacramento's happenings.

Email support@sacramento365.com to get the Top 10 Events Newsletter delivered to your inbox.

Sometimes not all group activities are for everyone. Maybe whitewater rafting is a bit too daring.  Or the group is wine-tasting and you don’t drink. We all find ourselves in this type of situation from time to time. Well, have no worries. The Sacramento CVB strives to make everyone in your group enjoy their time here - even if that means planning a separate activity for an individual or small group that isn’t interested in doing the group's main activity. 

We want everyone in your group to enjoy their visit to Sacramento, even if it takes several itinerary options.  For example, if a person does not wish to participate in one of the many Sacramento recreation activities such as whitewater rafting or biking on the American River Parkway, we are happy to provide options for those group members so they do not feel left out or have to wait on the "sidelines." 

We recently had a large group in town that was scheduled for a hard-hat mine tour in the Gold Country. A couple of group members knew they wouldn’t feel comfortable in such a situation, so we helped them fill their day with other – less strenuous – activities such as shopping, visiting a museum and going on a carriage ride.

We are more than happy to make such plans for any members of your groups that, for any reason, don’t wish to participate in the main group activity.  There is a wide range of fun things to do in Sacramento. 

Contact me to learn more about what I can do to accommodate all the members of your group.

In case you didn't already know: it's a great weekend to be in Sacramento. In addition to the arrival of the North American Handmade Bicycle Show (NAHBS) at theConvention Center, it's also the finale weekend ofSacramento Beer Week. Both were epitomized at Thursday's Art Bike Kick Off Party at Hot Italian.

Hot Italian was serving their Beer Week special--a Moretti in a glass you get to keep--and Sierra Nevada was on site giving out samples of their beers. Three Art Bikes were on display (have you seen the other nine around town?): a Trike (that you were encouraged to climb on for a photo opp), a Shark Bike, and a St. Patty's Day Bike. The crowd was asked to submit their vote for their favorite, and the St. Patty's Day bike--complete with rainbow ending in pot of gold (that were hidden speakers)--was announced the winner.

This event was certainly a teaser for the show this weekend--three great examples of creative bikes whetting the palate for NAHBS. If you want to get in on the action, attend the show (public hours are: Fri 11am-6pm, Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 10am-5pm), get inspired by the vast array of creative bikes, and then decorate your own to bring to Sunday's Avant-Garde Bike Parade, which starts at 2pm from Fremont Park. The 2.5-mile ride meanders through town, eventually ending at the Convention Center, where you'll be able to display your own bikes at NAHBS.

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Written by Sacramento365.com Assistant Editor, Alison Kranz

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There are always lots of things to do in Sacramento California. Find these events and many more on Sacramento365.com - the year-round source for Sacramento events.

Do you have an event coming up? Make sure it's on Sacramento365.com, the Sacramento Calendar of Events.

Follow us on Twitter or become a fan on Facebook to get day-to-day scoop on Sacramento's happenings.

Email support@sacramento365.com to get the Top 10 Events Newsletter delivered to your inbox.

This Week: Take a Leap with Yummy Eats
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		Food & Wine: Yelp Drinks! Various Locations Feb 27-March 4 Daily, times vary Thirsty? Yelp Drinks brings you a week bursting with all-day, all-night happy hours, crafty cocktails and gatherings galore!
		Visual Arts: HAIRitage Master Barber & Beauty Shop Feb 29-April 28 Tues-Thurs 9am-6pm; Fri-Sat 9am-7pm *Preview 2/29 5pm-7pm *Meet & greet 3/3 4pm-7pm HAIRitage is a photo exhibit dedicated to showcasing and capturing the essence of the Barber Shop.
		Festivals: ArtBike! Hot Italian & Fremont Park Ongoing-March 4 Thurs 6pm-9pm; Sat 2pm Come for the kick-off party on Thurs, and don't miss the all out, full blown, crazy sculpture bike parade on Sat. ArtBike! connects Sacramento to the North American Handmade Bicycle Show (March 2-March 4).
		Music: Local Bands & Local Brews Bows & Arrows March 1 Thurs 8pm-10pm Concerts 4 Charity & Sudwerk Brewery present an evening featuring music by The Golden Cadillacs with Hot Tar Roofers and Noah Nelson. Enjoy mugs of yummy brews while you are thoroughly entertained by these amazing bands.
		Theatre: Dial M for Murder B for Beer Sacramento Theatre Company March 2 Fri 6:30pm Join Brew Your Own Adventures for the opening weekend of Dial M for Murder & enjoy tastings of Lockdown Brewing Company's Folsom Prison Brews.
		Music: Angelique Kidjo Mondavi Center - Jackson Hall March 2 Fri 8pm Charismatic Angelique Kidjo, whose work has garnered her four Grammy nominations, has cross-pollinated the West African traditions of her childhood in Benin with elements of American R&B, funk and jazz, as well as influences from Europe and Latin America.
		Special Events: Bloomin' Crazy Sacramento Zoo March 3 Sat 9am-4pm Come on out to the sixth annual Bloomin' Crazy Plant Fest and visit with gardening clubs and plant experts. Get inspired to start your spring gardens!
		Festivals: Sacramento Beer & Chili Festival Southside Park March 3 Sat Noon-4pm Benefiting the Sacramento Artists Council, the Festival includes a chili cook-off contest, beer tastes from local & regional brewers, & live music by local musicians.
		Theatre: C.S. Lewis' The Screwtape Letters Community Center Theater March 3 Sat 4pm & 8pm This funny, provocative, and witty theatrical adaptation of C.S. Lewis' brilliant novel stars Max McLean as Screwtape. The story reveals spiritual warfare from a demon's point of view.
		Music: The Cheeseballs Harlow's March 3 Sat 9pm From '70s disco hits to '80s new wave and rock classics, along with current hits (yes, even Lady Gaga), this groovy, funky band will have you dancing. A great way to participate in Sacramento nightlife!

 
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Black History Month

Join in the celebration!

Check out Black History Month events in Sacramento here.

Featured Local Artist of the Month: Kristin Hartman

 Learn about oil painter Kristin Hartman in her Featured Artist Profile.

  Want the chance for more discounts or free tickets to shows?

Sacramento365.com does regular ticket giveaways on our Facebook fan page. Become a fan to be notified of deals, discounts, and the chance to win free tickets to events!

There are always lots of things to do in Sacramento California. Find these events and many more on Sacramento365.com - the year-round source for Sacramento events.

Do you have an event coming up? Make sure it's on Sacramento365.com, the Sacramento Calendar of Events.

Wine aficionados and wine novices alike should be on the alert to next Tuesday’s 2nd Annual Riedel Wine Tasting Seminar, this year held at the gorgeous Arden Hills Resort Club & Spa from 6:30pm-9pm.

Event planner Catrina Maria assures no prior knowledge of wine is needed: “Anyone would enjoy this seminar and those who do not love wine already may find they enjoy it more after drinking wine from the correct glass. It opens your eyes to how different the same wine can taste.” Being a wine novice myself, I can’t wait to gain a little insight into how a wine glass affects the flavor of the wine and expand the breadth of my wine knowledge beyond the basics.

The workshop, presented by Sylvie Laly, showcases Riedel’s Vinum XL glasses and teaches you how to pair the correct glass with the correct wine. Special guest, Chris Macias, food and wine writer for the Sacramento Bee, will also be present to share his personal wine knowledge.

Sacramento365.com Managing Editor, Rachael Lankford, who attended the event last year, says “What I was most astonished with was when we tasted the wine in a plastic cup and then compared it to tasting it in a glass. I was blown away! The wine tasted completely different—you couldn’t even taste the wonderful qualities of the wine that the winemaker had so carefully cultivated…it changed my entire wine tasting perspective.”

Tastings will be provided by Sean Minor Wines, one of many fine wineries in California. Catrina Maria divulges that tastes of the 2010 Sonoma County Sauvignon Blanc, 2010 Central Coast Chardonnay, 2010 Cerneros Pinot Noir, and newly-released 2009 Napa Valley Cabernet will be poured at the event, plus nine food samplings will be provided. Come thirsty & hungry!

In addition to the wine tastings, food samplings, and the seminar itself, the $75 ticket price also includes a set of 4 Riedel Vinum XL glasses, like the ones you’ll be testing at the event. The 4-set usually costs $123 by itself, so either way you look at it, you’re getting a deal!

This event is presented by the Sacramento Chapter of National Association of Catering Executives with support from Sacramento Magazine, Our Wedding, and Sierra Select Distributors & Standards of Excellence.

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Written by Sacramento365.com Assistant Editor, Alison Kranz

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There are always lots of things to do in Sacramento California. Find these events and many more on Sacramento365.com - the year-round source for Sacramento events.

Do you have an event coming up? Make sure it's on Sacramento365.com, the Sacramento Calendar of Events.

Follow us on Twitter or become a fan on Facebook to get day-to-day scoop on Sacramento's happenings.

Email support@sacramento365.com to get the Top 10 Events Newsletter delivered to your inbox.