Well those of you who have followed my blog for awhile know that any chance I get to promote chocolate anything, I am right there. And since it is Valentine’s weekend, it would be the perfect opportunity to slip in some reference to chocolate but I will resist, lol. Chocolate and resist are two words I do not use in the same sentence very often.

This weekend I have decided to forego Valentine events and showcase some very fine art related events. It is amazing how many talented people there are that produce quality works of art and follow a circuit of art events not gallery openings. I am talking real talent here that is screened before each show. Most of these shows require the artists exhibiting to go through a juried system to be accepted. For those of you that do not know, a juried event requires that a judging committee or panel approve you and your work before you can exhibit at the event. It traditionally requires that the work be done entirely by the artist and adhere to an approved list of media such as jewelry, sculpture, photography, oils, pencil, ceramics, etc. In addition, the events require the artist be onsite and to also showcase their skills through demonstrations at their booth. I have seen museum quality art at these shows. Over the years some of the artists that started in the event circuit selling works for $100’s of dollars are now commanding $4,000 and up per piece. And it is quite common to find several artist works selling for many 1000’s of dollars. Also many of the artists at these events have a huge following of buyers that look forward to their appearance every year; art groupies if you will.

For someone who was often kept after school by the nuns to finish my art projects I love these events. Stick figures are artwork at my house and I defy anyone to say they are not! I am always impressed by these extremely talented folks. I am sure that if you find your way to anyone of these, you will be impressed as well. As always, if none of the events on this list are near you, please use the search box above and find something artistic to do this weekend in your backyard! Get out and have fun.

Pigeon Key Art Festival
Feb 11, 2012 – Feb 12, 2012
Marathon Community Park Marathon, FL US 33050
Since 1995, this popular juried festival features the works of talented artists on display along with food vendors, raffles, children’s activities, live music and more.
6,000 Attendees

An Affair of the Heart
Feb 10, 2012 – Feb 12, 2012
Fairgrounds at State Fair Park Oklahoma City, OK US 73107
Since 1985, one of the largest craft shows in the Southwest featuring more than 800 exhibitors from over 30 states displaying antiques, collectibles and handmade items. Show features items including quilts, antique furniture, baskets, dried flower arrangements, stenciling, wooden and painted folk art, Belgain lace pictures, antique jewelry, toys, dolls, stoneware, clothing, patio and garden items, watercolor paintings and much more.
70,000 Attendees

Cincinnati Arts Sampler
Feb 11, 2012
Xavier University Art Gallery – A.B Cohen Center Cincinnati, OH US 45229
Since 1989, 70 arts and cultural events at dozens of locations offering something for everyone. These events are an opportunity to expand your knowledge and appreciation for the arts. All media will be represented in concerts, performances and exhibits. Takes place over three weekends at numerous venues throughout the City.
30,000 Attendees

Osceola Art Festival
Feb 11, 2012 – Feb 12, 2012
Valencia Community College East Campus Galleries Orlando, FL US 32825
Since 1967, this event features over 150 artists from around the state who display their works in the downtown area. Exhibits include oil painting, watercolors, sculptures, photography, graphics, and more. Plus food and musical entertainment make this an exciting event all taking place along Broadway Avenue.
20,000 Attendees

Country Folk Art and Craft Show
Feb 10, 2012 – Feb 12, 2012
Empire Expo Center – New York State Fairgrounds Syracuse, NY US 13209
All juried show featuring top quality handcrafted folk art and crafts by hundreds of outstanding artisans from across the country. Includes Primitive and French Country, Americana, Chabby Chic, Victorian, Northwoods Rustic, Traditional, Contemporary Folk Art and Fine Art.
9,000 Attendees

Northeast Valentine’s Day Art and Craft Show
Feb 13, 2012 – Feb 14, 2012
Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller Empire State Plaza Albany, NY US 12203
Since 1980. Features 75 exhibit spaces filled with juried exhibitors from many different states displaying and selling their handcrafted items.
6,000 Attendees

Coconut Point Art Festival
Feb 11, 2012 – Feb 12, 2012
Downtown Coconut Point Estero, FL US 33928
Since 2005, Join us Valentine’s Day Weekend for an incredible art show as we team up with the American Cancer Society to raise money to support a wonderful cause. Coconut Point, located near Estero and Bonita Springs (between Naples and Fort Myers), will host the Coconut Point Art Festival. Fine art, music and more will occupy the streets for two fun-filled days. Grab your sunscreen and walking shoes to stroll amidst life-size sculptures, spectacular paintings, one-of-a-kind jewels, photography, ceramics, and much more.
80,000 Attendees

Folsom Quilt Show
Feb 10, 2012 – Feb 12, 2012
Folsom Community Center Folsom, CA US 95630
Since 1986, The Folsom Quilt and Fiber Guild is pleased to announce its Annual quilt and fiber show, a magnificent display of quilts of all sizes, wearable art, needle arts, and other creative uses of fiber and texture. The show features vendors from California, Oregon, and Nevada. Highlights of the show will include demonstrations, daily fashions shows, refreshments, door prize drawings, a boutique, daily lectures/trunk shows by VIP quilters, and a grand prize drawing for our simply breathtaking opportunity quilt.
5,000 Attendees

Wigwam Festival of Fine Arts
Feb 10, 2012 – Feb 12, 2012
Wigwam Golf Resort and Spa Litchfield Park, AZ US 85340
The majestic grounds of the legendary Wigwam Resort offer an unparalleled ambiance for outdoor dining, arts and entertainment. Discover the extraordinary works of the Southwest’s finest artists and craftsmen, live musical performances, alfresco dining and wine tasting from Arizona’s top rated vineyards.
20,000 Attendees

Talking Stick Fine Art, Wine and Chocolate Festival
Feb 10, 2012 – Feb 12, 2012
Salt River Fields Scottsdale, AZ US 85256
Talking Stick Fine Art, Wine and Chocolate Festival is uniquely positioned on the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community on a 140-acre site featuring vast panoramic views of some of central Arizona’s most iconic mountain ranges such as the visually stunning Camelback Mountain to the west, McDowell Mountains to the north and the majestic Red Mountain to the east. Look past the Red Mountain and see the sacred Four Peaks and the Superstition Mountains where the mystery of the Lost Dutchman Gold Mine lies – the greatest living legend in the American Southwest. Thunderbird Artists attracts nationally acclaimed, world-renowned and top emerging independent artists that will personally showcase their new original artworks. We invited Wine and Chocolate vendors to participate in our celebrations, taking place on Valentine’s Day weekend. The pairing of a delectable confectionery and ‘Ambrosia” is synonymous with celebrating the holidays. Chocolate has a history dating back around 2000 years. Theobroma Cacao, the Latin word for the cocao tree translates as “food of the Gods” It was believe to have magical qualities. An indulgence linked to health benefits! Combined with our Wine Tasting event – an additional $10, which includes a souvenir wine glass and 6 tasting tickets – we bring you a perfect way to relax and enjoy art. The romance of sipping fine wines, holding hands and strolling throughout juried fine arts while listening to live music adds to the ambiance of this event.
20,000 Attendees

Bonita Springs National Art Festival
Feb 11, 2012 – Feb 12, 2012
The Promenade at Bonita Bay Bonita Springs, FL US 34134
Since 1989. Annual outdoor exhibition features nearly 200 nationally and internationally acclaimed artists working in a variety of media. Artists from 43 states, Canada, South America and Europe apply to exhibit in this top-rated event, which stresses quality and originality. The artists will be exhibiting and selling original art such as paintings, glass jewelry, clay works, photography, sculpture and more. Held once a month in January thru March.
30,000 Attendees

Maria can be reached directly at eventsblog@eventcrazy.com or visit her website at www.eventcrazy.com
Copyright © 1998-2012 Events Media Network, Inc. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Photos are copyright of their respective owners.

Everyone has a definition of sport when you ask. Some say specific sports like football, baseball etc. Others say a sport that they do which is close to their heart like jogging or golf. Webster’s defines sport as “a source of diversion like recreation.” Set the traditional idea of organized sport aside and think more like outdoor adventures.

This week I thought that since it is not so great outside, I would highlight some shows with things Americans love to do for recreation if/when they CAN play outside. These shows feature many different shapes, sizes and types of recreation we enjoy as a nation. The show floors are covered with things related to all of our outdoor passions such as boating, fishing,  hunting, luxury travel,  adventure travel, camping, ATV’s, RV’s, motorcycles and so much more. You will see things, new, established and outrageous in the world of outdoor fun. A lot of the companies exhibiting at these shows have spent huge amounts of money creating interactive experiences to give you as close a possible, the experience of their product at the show when you cannot go out and actually try it.

I have found these types of shows a fun way to spend a day as a family. I am pretty confident that these types of shows are taking place all over the country in the next few weeks. If there aren’t any on this list near you, please use the search box to find events in your backyard to attend this week.  So grab the kids and granny and get on out there. Even if you have to go inside to see what new and exciting to do outside!

Iowa Boat, RV and Vacation Show

Jan 20, 2012 – Jan 22, 2012

UNI Dome at University of Northern Iowa Cedar Falls, IA US 50613

Since 1989, boat equipment, ideas and information. Featuring over 23 boat dealers with 50 different brands and 100′s of models. Includes family runabouts, fishing boats, cabin cruisers, cuddies, power boats, waterski boats, personal watercraft, jet boats, bass boats, walleye boats, deck boats, pontoons, canoes, kayaks, fishing and ski boats. Plus seminars motorhomes, boating accessories and boat and camping related products are also featured.
15,000 Attendees

New Jersey RV and Camping Show

Jan 20, 2012 – Jan 22, 2012

New Jersey Convention and Expo Center Edison, NJ US 08837

Since 1968, features 125 exhibitors and hundreds of RV’s from pop ups to high end motor homes, RV products and accessories and resort campgrounds exhibiting at the show.
15,000 Attendees

Austin Boat Show

Jan 19, 2012 – Jan 22, 2012

Austin Convention Center Austin, TX US 78701

Since 1978, show with 65 exhibitors with boating equipment, camping and recreational supplies and related accessories.
15,000 Attendees

Sacramento International Sportsmen’s Exposition and Boat Show

Jan 19, 2012 – Jan 22, 2012

Cal Expo Center Sacramento, CA US 95815

Since 1988, featuring over 400 exhibitors, the Sacramento International Sportsmen’s Exposition and Boat Show will offer the Central Valley’s largest selection of products and services for anglers, hunters, boaters, ATVers, campers and recreational-vehicle enthusiasts, also showcasing some of the world’s finest wildlife paintings, sculpture, photography, leathercraft and log furniture. Hundreds of lodges, resorts, guides and outfitters will be available to answer questions or book adventures to destinations nearby or distant, including 10 exhibitors from Africa offering photo and hunt safaris. Some highlights and features include Northern California’s largest selection of sportfishing boats, at bargain prices. New ATV test track, Best-Of- The-West Fly-Casting Competition, Ford Ultimate Campsite, full of the latest in camping gear and Ford vehicles, Coleman Campfire Theater, chainsaw artist, huge sporting-dog arena, Lawry’s Taste of the Outdoors fish and game cooking demos, Cal Boating Adventure Theater: expert-led presentations on dozens of hot outdoor topics, super tanker live-fish display, seminars and much more.
40,000 Attendees

Cleveland Sport, Travel and Outdoor Show

Jan 19, 2012 – Jan 22, 2012

I-X Center Cleveland, OH US 44135

Since 1937, the largest show of its kind in the Midwest, features sporting goods, camping equipment, tackle, travel and tourism representatives and more.
200,000 Attendees

Kansas City Boat and Sportshow

Jan 19, 2012 – Jan 22, 2012

Bartle Hall – Kansas City Convention Center Kansas City, MO US 64105

Since 1955, features over 400 exhibitors, new model year power boats, fishing boats, pontoon boats, motors, marine electronics, trailers, lifts, docks, personal watercraft, ATV’s, motorcycles, RV’s, camping trailers, fishing and sporting goods, seminars, family vacation and adventure travel destinations and much more.
135,000 Attendees

Minneapolis Boat Show

Jan 19, 2012 – Jan 22, 2012

Minneapolis Convention Center Minneapolis, MN US 55403

Since 1973, more than 200 exhibitors displaying runabouts, cruisers, pontoon boats, bass boats, ski boats, deck boats, fishing boats, houseboats, high performance boats, sailboats, yachts, day sailors, racing scows, catamarans,inflatables, canoes, kayaks, rowing shells, personal watercraft, motors, trailers, docks, lifts, covers, marine electronics, charter services, marinas, marine accessories, insurance and financial services.
100,000 Attendees

Birmingham Boat Show

Jan 19, 2012 – Jan 22, 2012

Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center Birmingham, AL US 35203

Since 1972, the latest in boat and sports equipment with over 250,000 square feet, the Show highlights the latest in Boats, Motors, Fishing gear, Guides, Outfitters and related outdoor gear.
40,000 Attendees

Fort Myers RV Super Show

Jan 19, 2012 – Jan 22, 2012

Lee County Civic Center Fort Myers, FL US 33917

Since 1986. Get ready to hit the road in a new RV. Plenty of new styles to look at, as well as supplies and equipment.
13,000 Attendees

Northeast Ohio Sportsman Show

Jan 20, 2012 – Jan 21, 2012

Buckeye Event Center Dalton, OH US 44618

With over 100 exhibitors such as Hoyt, Bowtech, Benelli, Ruger, Reminton, Mathews Solocam, and Leica plus many more in attendance this is sure to be even better than last year! More seminars will be held due to the overwhelming response from last year. Featured speakers such as Chuck Adams, Tony Lapratt, San Gerht, Dave Whitt, Alex Vedrinski, Smokey from the Hills of West Virginia and the Division of Watercraft.
15,000 Attendees

Maria can be reached directly at eventsblog@eventcrazy.com or visit her website at www.eventcrazy.com
Copyright © 1998-2012 Events Media Network, Inc. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Photos are copyright of their respective owners.

Visit a Home Show for Some Great Ideas

If you own a home, you know that there is always something that needs to be remodeled, remolded or repainted. It is an endless job maintaining a house and it takes an enormous amount of time and money. It can be a tough job keeping up with all that needs to be done.

If you own a house, you are a lucky individual. I know it takes a lot of work to maintain one but it is a privilege and a blessing to own one. This time of year, home projects must be heavily in the planning stages. I think it’s because most of the people in the country are stuck inside their homes due to the lousy weather that they realize how much work needs to be done. To help in those endeavors I have highlighted home shows in this weeks blog. Long before there was HGTV or DIY Network there were home shows. The best place to see up close and first hand what there is on the market for homeowners. Some are home shows, some are home and garden, some are remodeling shows but they are all a plethora of companies under one roof that can make your home repairs easier.

These shows offer the attendees wonderful experiences and invaluable knowledge.  Several companies will guide you through the process of any DIY project, some will show you the latest and greatest products on the market today and still others will showcase new looks and feels to help your house become the home you have always wanted. If you have never been to one of these shows, I highly recommend visiting one. I attended my first home show long before I owned my first home and I was really impressed with the information I took away from my visit. It was so well worth the time I spent there.

This week I invite you all to visit a home show near you. They are all over this time of year and I am sure there will be one near you in the next few weeks. If none on this list is in your area, please be sure to use the search box for events in your backyard.

Miami Valley Home Improvement Show

Jan 12, 2012 – Jan 15, 2012

Hara Silver Arena Dayton, OH US 45415

Since 1982, this is one of the largest home shows in the Dayton area, quality exhibitors, seminars and “Ask-An- Expert” sessions on all your home improvement projects, landscaped exhibits, model room additions and much more.
25,000 Attendees

Jersey Shore Home Show

Jan 13, 2012 – Jan 15, 2012

Brookdale Community College Lincroft, NJ US 07738

Since 1991, features more than 125 of the region’s most innovative manufacturers and sellers of home furnishings, window treatments, kitchen cabinetry and appliances, security systems, air conditioning and heating systems, customed designed furniture, pools and spas, cooking products, plumbing supplies, awnings, indoor and outdoor furniture, siding and roofing. Specialists in architecture and space planning, interior and landscape design and healthy cooking will share their expertise with the public.

Northwest Iowa Home and Builders Show

Jan 13, 2012 – Jan 15, 2012

Clay County Regional Events Center Spencer, IA US 51301

Since 2004, the show features 130 exhibitors displaying and selling home related products and services.

Texas Home and Garden Show

Jan 13, 2012 – Jan 15, 2012

Irving Convention Center Irving, TX US 75039

Since 1999, home and garden consumer show featuring a wide array of items for both inside and outside the home. Remodeling, landscaping, home decor are featured topics in seminars. Experts on hard to answer questions.
20,000 Attendees

Lake County Home Building and Remodeling Show

Jan 13, 2012 – Jan 15, 2012

Lake County Fairgrounds Grays Lake, IL US 60030

The Lake County Home Building and Remodeling Expo is the northern suburbs chance to get the answers to all home decorating, and remodeling questions. It doesn’t matter if you come to browse, buy or to just ask questions, The Lake County Home Building and Remodeling Expo is sure to have exactly what you’re looking for. Free admission and free parking. There’s also great family entertainment so be sure to bring the kids. Guests can expect to have fun while gathering new ideas and getting inspiration. Whether shopping for a contractor or just dreaming of renovation, nearly everything is covered from basic services to high-end building. Every year, new companies are scouted out and new displays are brought in to keep it fresh and exciting. Don’t miss your opportunity to attend this widely anticipated annual event. Your home is your biggest investment, and The Lake County Home Building and Remodeling Expo has exactly what you need to give your home a personal touch. This event is open to the public and no tickets are needed, so bring your friends and family.
5,000 Attendees

Yuma Home and Garden Show

Jan 13, 2012 – Jan 15, 2012

Yuma Civic and Convention Center Yuma, AZ US 85365

Since 1995, over 300 displays with everything you’ll need for the home including home improvement, decorating, design and much more. There will be many “How To” demonstrations and seminars by leading experts in the fields of landscaping, remodeling, finance, construction and more.
13,000 Attendees

Iowa Home Show

Jan 13, 2012 – Jan 15, 2012

Iowa State Fairgrounds Des Moines, IA US 50317

Features industry leaders exhibiting a wide variety of home and patio products and services for today’s consumer.

Kitchen, Bath and Home Improvement Showcase

Jan 13, 2012 – Jan 15, 2012

Kentucky International Convention Center Louisville, KY US 40202

This comprehensive and expansive home show brings together homeowners and many of the most knowledgeable and experienced remodeling and building experts. Every aspect of the home can be explored, from the smallest design detail to the largest house addition. Professionals will be on hand to share their valuable knowledge to bring your ideas to life or inspire you with new ones. See the latest innovations and design trends. Experts will be showcasing everything for the home including, but not limited to the latest in cabinetry and countertops, flooring, sunrooms and additions, basement finishing, waterproofing, smart home automation, energy efficient windows, and exterior products.

Log Home Living and Timber Frame Home Show

Jan 13, 2012 – Jan 15, 2012

Earle Brown Heritage Center Brooklyn Center, MN US 55430

Meet face-to-face with company representatives and get a close-up look at their products. Have your floorplans reviewed by a design professional. Shop for furniture, fixtures and accessories perfect for your log or timber framehome, browse for ideas and or meeting with industry professionals to get your questions answered. Plus many informative seminars and workshops will be offered.

Build, Remodel and Landscape Expo

Jan 13, 2012 – Jan 15, 2012

Charleston Area Convention Center and Coliseum North Charleston, SC US 29418

Features over 130 exhibitors displaying and selling home related products and services along with demonstrations of home improvement and landscape ideas and techniques.

Remodeling Expo

Jan 13, 2012 – Jan 15, 2012

TD Convention Center Greenville, SC US 29607

Features over 130 exhibitors displaying and selling home related products and services along with demonstrations of home improvement ideas and techniques.

Hartford Home Show

Jan 13, 2012 – Jan 15, 2012

XL Center Hartford, CT US 06103

This is a consumer event for homeowners who are remodeling, landscaping and decorating their homes. There are over 200 exhibits with merchandise, product demonstrations and sample interior and exterior vignettes. With a combination of new products and expert advice from the pros, the show inspires home owners with countless ideas on enhancing their home´s comfort and functionality, as well as its aesthetic appeal and overall value.

Orlando Spring Home and Garden Show

Jan 13, 2012 – Jan 15, 2012

Orange County Convention Center Orlando, FL US 32819

This show features over 400 exhibitors with fabulous ideas for consumers. Visitors can meet professionals to help make your next remodeling, renovation, landscaping or decorating project a breeze.

Virginia Home and Garden Show

Jan 14, 2012 – Jan 15, 2012

The Meadow Event Park -State Fairgrounds Doswell, VA US 23047

Exhibitors displaying everything you’ll need for your home or garden including home builders, interior decorators and landscapers. Some exhibitors will be displaying kitchen cabinetry, architectural moldings, stained glass, building materials, hardwood flooring, handcrafted furniture, lighting fixtures, wall coverings, window treatments, patio furniture, lawn equipment, sunrooms, landscaping ornaments, stamped concrete, landscape stone, plants, flowers and more.

Maria can be reached directly at eventsblog@eventcrazy.com or visit her website at www.eventcrazy.com
Copyright © 1998-2012 Events Media Network, Inc. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Photos are copyright of their respective owners.

I was wondering if everyone got the feeling that the only type of events held for Christmas was parades. It may seem that way however it is just that this time of year there just happen to be a LOT of parades. I have a theory that the parade was the first interactive event and that’s what makes it so popular. It is a line of people who are appearing in an organized fashion like a major production. However, in most cases, not one of the featured players is getting paid, does it as a full time career or makes a living doing parades. Most small town parades include local civic groups as marchers, local bands for music and local associations providing floats. Big city parades are the same, only they get to invite the same groups from a wider area. Their reputations and prestige make people want to sell cakes or wash cars all year to get the money to be part of say the Rose Bowl or Macy’s Parade. I marched every year I was a girl scout in the local parade where I grew up. My hometown was so small everyone from our town had to be in the parade and we had to bring in people from neighboring towns to watch, lol.  But I loved it!

Well I have listed a bunch of different Christmas events this week. Just a few parades here because I need to include these. First up is the Newport Boat Parade.  I wasn’t able to include it in my boat parade list because it is held this week. I try to be timely. This is a phenomenal parade. It takes place over 5 nights and can really be considered 5 parades. If you have an opportunity to see this one, make sure that you do. It’s a beautiful experience. The other two parades I have included this week are just for fun. One of them is the Off Road Vehicle parade in Arizona and the other is the Farm Tractor parade in California.  I love it when a geographic region takes what is great about their area and incorporates it into a traditional event giving a local flavor.

Among the other events are two religious events. I mean religion and Christmas have some association after all. One is a stage production with over 200 performers held at the  Evangal Cathedral in Maryland. The other is an outdoor Living Nativity with over 200 “actors” and 13 different stage sets in Mount Laurel New Jersey. Also featured this week is boat caroling in San Antonio, an evening 5K through a downtown decorated park in Albany, a Harvard craft fair and a Dale City Dickens fair.

As usual, there are lots of great events taking place all over this week. If there isn’t anything on this list near you, use the search box and look for things taking in your backyard. Whatever you do, make sure to do it and share it with people you love!

Ferndale Christmas Lighted Tractor Parade

There are so many terrific holiday parades and festivities taking place all over the country this week. Choosing a direction was really difficult. The weekend kicks off with the world famous Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, it is the “official” start of the holiday shopping season. Or as I lovingly refer to it, shopping insanity! So we have parades on Thanksgiving and all weekend. On Friday there are bunches; Saturday bunches more. Santa is the guest of honor at 1000′s of upcoming parades. But finally, as you can see from my list, exclusively Thanksgiving Day won out!

As those of you that have been reading my blogs for a awhile know, one of my top ten all time favorite movies is Miracle on 34th Street. The connection to the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is unmistakable. It is the key to the entire story and the movie opens with the parade itself. From a very early time in my life, I made it a point to see that movie every year around Thanksgiving. When my children were small, we made it a annual tradition to watch that movie first thing in the morning every Thanksgiving. As the years went by, the audience grew thin to the point where it is usually just me now. But I am ok with that because I know that my children have a soft spot in their hearts for that movie.

Maybe, by focusing on Thanksgiving Day parades we can all combine the holidays with our family traditions and make memories to last lifetimes. So, this week I invite you to get out on Thanksgiving morning and attend one of these fabulous parades. If that isn’t an option, you can always rent, Miracle on 34th Street and enjoy it with your family. And after the movie, watch the actual parade on TV as the new appetizer to your holiday meal. This will contribute to making wonderful memories of fabulous, warm times on Thanksgiving.

Whatever event you attend or movie you watch, grab Grandma, the dog and perhaps someone less fortunate and do something together. My most sincere wishes to you and your family for a Happy Thanksgiving.

This weekend officially welcomes the season of Autumn. I love this time of year. It brings back fond memories of jumping in piles of leaves, cooler temperatures, shorter days and the knowledge that my favorite holidays are just around the corner. It also seems to be a popular time of year for “cruise ins” and car shows. A “cruise in” basically is a car show, only the cars cruise into it. These shows traditionally take place outside and feature classic, antique or suped up cars and “rods”. I do not have any facts to back me up on why there are so many fall car shows, but I wanted to share it with you anyway. Lucky you! I am thinking that the angle of the sun and the reflection of the leaves, is the best possible light to be showcasing these gorgeous cars. Or maybe it’s just that the car owners like the fall season as much as I do. Could go either way.

I have featured a few this week that are not only terrific car shows, they have a few unique elements to them. I am very impressed with the show in Costa Mesa because it really is a life saver. Playing on their attendee demographic, the show offers a prostate cancer screening test booth. To date it has saved hundreds of lives because the results have compelled people with no symptoms to seek additional evaluation. In addition this week there is also a car parade to celebrate Fleet Week in San Diego, a car show on the boardwalk in Wildwood, NJ and one of the nicest settings for a downtown car show in Grand Junction, CO . In the next two weeks, there will be two huge car shows taking place in Pennsylvania; Hershey and Carlise. I walked both of these shows many times and I have to tell you, they are a workout.

Car shows are great fun for the whole family and I encourage you to drop in on one in your area this weekend. To check what’s going on in your backyard, use the search box above. And most of all, get out and have some fun!

Please note: I added the shows of Carlise and Hershey to this list, even though they take place in the next few weeks, not this weekend.

Boardwalk Classic Car Show
Sep 22, 2011 – Sep 24, 2011
Wildwood Convention and Civic Center Wildwood, NJ US 08260
Since 1994. Classic Car Street Festival held on Sweet Briar, Wisteria and Columbine Roads in Wildwood Crest. Drive-in type movie begins at dusk. Cars will be displayed on the Wildwoods Boardwalk Friday and Saturday from 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. Prizes will be awarded Saturday night from 6-8 p.m. for the “Best Of” in front of the Wildwoods Convention Center

Fall Jefferson Car Show
Sep 23, 2011 – Sep 25, 2011
Jefferson County Fairgrounds Jefferson, WI US 53549
Since 1978, This is a great time to pick up the parts you need for your winter restoration projects! With over 3,100 swap spaces at this swapmeet, you are sure to find the car parts you need! The Cars for Sale Corral has over 800 cars, so you are sure to find lots of great deals at the end of the season. New 2 day car show. Featuring all Fords!
30,000+ Attendees

Cruise Nite Weekend and Car Show
Sep 24, 2011 – Sep 25, 2011
Community Park Jacksonville, IL US 62650
Since 1978. One of the largest Cruise events in Illinois. Come to the cruise on Saturday night and stay for the show on Sunday. This event brings in classic and antique autos for a weekend of fun for the whole family.

Fall Carlisle Collector Car Swap Meet and Corral
Sep 28, 2011 – Oct 02, 2011
Carlisle Fairgrounds Carlisle, PA US 17013
Features over 1,800 collector cars and trucks for sale, car corral and over 3,200 vendors fill 8,100 vendor spaces filled with all types of automotive goodies.
90,000+ Attendees

AACA Hershey Fall Meet
Oct 05, 2011 – Oct 08, 2011
Hershey Park Stadium at Hershey Park Hershey, PA US 17033
Since 1957, this is one of the largest antique car shows and flea markets in the world, with 10,400 spaces. If you walked the entire show, it would be 29.5 miles to cover. There are cars and vendors from over 23 countries. It consists of over 9,000 flea market spaces, over 1,000 car corral spaces, and approximately 1,500 show cars. Each year the show attracts visitors from all over the United States and many countries throughout the world. Some of the most unusual cars and parts can be found at Hershey. If you love antique cars, Hershey is the place to be.
300,000 Attendees

Cruisin For A Cure Car Show
Sep 24, 2011
Orange County Fairgrounds and Exposition Center Costa Mesa, CA US 92626
Since 2000, Cruisin’ For A Cure is the world’s largest one day charity custom/classic auto show with over 3400 vehicles on display, over 200 vendors and exhibitors, and a mile and 1/2 cruise route. Cruisin’ For A Cure is a registered non-profit California organization. All of the individuals that organize the show, handle show day logistics, and generally help make this event a success, are doing this voluntarily in addition to their “day jobs”. Unlike many other automotive fundraising events, none of the money goes to a car club, promoter, or ”administrative overhead”…. There are none! Thus, you can be assured that your donation goes directly to prostate cancer research. That is why we have all participants make their entry check out to the CITY OF HOPE. We simply log in the vehicle information for the show and forward the check to the City of Hope

License to Cruise Car Show
Sep 23, 2011
Downtown Appleton Appleton, WI US 54912
License to Cruise, a classic and collectors’ car show is part of the Appleton Octoberfest. Features 400 classic cars, live music, strolling entertainers and food booths.

Downtown Car Show
Sep 24, 2011
Downtown Grand Junction, CO US 81506
Since 2002. Main Street hosts this open-air show featuring more than 300 antique and classic cars, trucks and hot rods, along with exotic sports cars, tours of the valley, artwork and music.

NE Georgia Mustang Club Car Show
Sep 24, 2011
Maggie Valley Festival Grounds Maggie Valley, NC US 28751
Since 1974, Annual Fall Regional Shelby/Mustang and Ford Meet. There will be show shirts available, SS Tee, LS Tee and Sweatshirts. We have numerous door prizes available and the awards this year will be clocks instead of placques. The Mustangs Unlimited girls will be there handling the 50/50. For any questions, please contact David Osborn 770-356-9431 or David Johnson 678-357-8615 or any of the links on the contact page. The show will run from 8:00 to 4:00 and will be a popular vote format with awards presentation at 4:30. We have have several vendors registered and committed to attend. Once again we have arranged for food and drink to be available at the site.

San Diego Fleet Week Car Parade
Sep 22, 2011
Downtown Coronado, CA US 92178
The kickoff to a fun-filled weekend at the Fleet Week Coronado Speed Festival. Parade Route: The parade will begin at Naval Air Station North Island, travel down Orange and terminate at Rotary Plaza and Isabella Avenue. Come visit this grand gathering of the Coronado and San Diego communities along with racers from all over the nation. The Coronado Speed Festival is a premier motorsports event, saluting our nation’s military. Please join “The Race at the Base.”

Antique Car Show
Sep 24, 2011
Montgomery Place Historic Estate Annandale-on-Hudson, NY US 12504
Antique cars will be tooling around the grounds of Montgomery Place at this ticketed special event that will delight automobile enthusiasts of all ages. Great food and a 17-piece brass band round out the day. Owners of cars from 1985 and older are invited to participate. The mansion will be open for tours. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.

Maria can be reached directly at eventsblog@eventcrazy.com or visit her website at www.eventcrazy.com
Copyright © 1998-2011 Events Media Network, Inc. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Photos are copyright of their respective owners.