Just because school has started, summer is holding on by the hair of its chinny chinny chin, and the first day of fall officially starts on September 22nd, 2008 – there is still plenty of time to soak up a few rays and enjoy a good festival before the leaves begin to trickle to the ground.
For example, Rhinebeck, New York is preparing for the Hudson Valley Wine & Food Fest this weekend, held at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds on September 6th and September 7th. Local restaurants and vineyards, music, and awe-inspiring scenery will take place against the beautiful landscape of the Catskill Mountains.
To give you a bit more time to prepare for upcoming festivities in your neck of the woods, below are five festivals in taking place in California, Georgia, Oregon, and Tennessee during the month of September:
1) Atlanta Arts Festival
September 12th - September 14th, 2008
Atlanta, Georgia
This three-day extravaganza unfolding in Piedmont Park centers on an outdoor festival focused on the beauty of visual arts. Artists from all over the country will gather to admire and absorb creative expression with sounds of live entertainment floating in the air. Other features to look forward to includes "Dirty Car Artist" Scott Wade; a Celtic harpist; and bucket drummer Chris Harris.
While you're there – don't forget to head on over to the food court, where soft drinks, bottled water, wine, beer, and Cat Daddy's Moonshine cocktails are ready to quench your thirst. Concession stands will showcase a variety of regional treats, from fried catfish, sweet potato chips, red beans and rice to Spinach and Black Bean Quesadillas, Crispy Fish Tacos, and Cajun Chicken Eggrolls. Nurse a box of Mountain View Kettle Korn or pay a visit to Always Sweet, which will provide delicious funnel cakes, cotton candy, and candy apples. Times: Friday: 4pm – 8pm; Saturday: 10am – 8pm; Sunday 12pm – 6pm * Admission & Parking: Free. It is suggested to take the Marta, as parking is limited.
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2) ArtWalk on the Bay
September 13th - September 14th, 2008
San Diego, California
Embarcadero Park North (right behind Seaport Village) provides the location for a two-day festival that promises to showcase the work of some of the best artists dwelling in San Diego. With the scenic bayside serving as your setting for this event, the artwork isn't the only thing you won't be able to stop staring at. Performers will keep the crowds entertained and the kiddies will certainly appreciate the various interactive art explorations offered at this event. Sponsored by Toyota, don't miss out on the chance to check out the latest in green technology with hybrid vehicles on display and test drives. Times: 10am - 5pm * Admission & Parking: Free – find your spot all about downtown.
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3) Chattahippie Music Festival
September 18th - September 21st, 2008
Chattanooga, Tennessee
Prepare for a four-day stint filled with peace, love, and happiness at the Chattahippie Festival Grounds, where this riverfront venue (stretching more than 50 acres) will host an array of performers and musical talent, including the sounds of bluegrass, blues, country, Americana, and Southern rock folk. There will be close to 30 acts and bands featured at this event, which also offers food and drinks to satisfy a grumbling stomach and parched throat. Rain or shine, this event is on – so don't forget to bring your sunscreen, lawn chairs, blankets, ground seats, and umbrella.
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4) American River Music Festival
September 19th - September 21st, 2008
Coloma, California
How does spending three days surrounded by blues, folk, and Americana music sound? With a handful of workshops and jam sessions, the American River Music Festival is coming to Coloma (about one hour from Sacramento) with food, music, art, and entertainment. Come enjoy a guided hike along the riverfront. Test your nerves while whitewater rafting or take the time to go camping with the kiddies. Performers slated to deliver a rip-roaring good time includes Gandolph Murphy and the Slambovian Circus of Dreams; The Buccaneers; and Blame Sally. Please note that all the action takes place at Lotus Park and three other campgrounds in town. Admission & Parking: $35-$219
Thanks to MorgueFile and Mary R. Vogt for providing the above photo.
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5) Portland Pirate Festival
September 20th - September 21st, 2008
Portland, Oregon
It's time to slap on an eye patch, dust off the wooden leg, and bring the parrot out of retirement – the Portland Pirate Festival kicks off in September, offering two days filled with music, history, and of course…adventure. This family-friendly event will be held under the St. John's Bridge with Cathedral Park providing the historical surroundings. Ships, cannon battles, and sword fighting demonstrations are only the tip of the iceberg for this festival that aims to pay homage to swashbucklers, pirates and other maritime fascinations of the past. Live entertainment will include Captain Bogg & Salty; En Daire Irish Dancers; "The Pirate's Parrot" Live Bird Show; and the Mud Bay Jugglers. Times: Saturday (10am - 10pm); Sunday (10am – 6pm) * Admission & Parking: 1 day: $6-$15; 2 day: $10-$20; Group Rates: $5 -$15
Thanks to MorgueFile and Dani Simmonds for providing the above photo.