Valentine Celebration in Colorado Rockies

“Romance in the Rockies,” Gunnison-Crested Butte’s annual Valentine’s celebration of love, returns from February 8  to 14. 

Not only are there concerts, brunch at the yurt, yoga and massage workshops for couples, a Valentine’s chocolate class for kids and a theatrical celebration of food, but you can romance the one you love with a sleigh-ride dinner, dog sledding adventure and outstanding vacation packages. 

A Theatrical Celebration of Food will bring together local chefs, restaurateurs and playwrights for lively competition and collaboration of artistic culinary and theatrical writing skills on February 11 and 12 at the Gunnison Arts Center. 

Yoga for the Peaceful in Crested Butte is offering a Partner Yoga and Tantra Workshop on February 12 from 5 – 7 p.m. and a Partner Massage Workshop on February 13 from 4 – 6 p.m.

Brunch at the Yurt is a premiere way to spend a Sunday morning with selections prepared by local chefs such as homemade yogurt; granola; pastries; creamy brown sugar polenta; sausage; Gruyere and Swiss chard strata; and white bean, potato and kale frittata. Put on skis or snowshoes to get to the Crested Butte Nordic Center’s Magic Meadows yurt and back at your pace on February 13. 

Gunnison-Crested Butte is nestled among almost two million acres of pristine wilderness in southwest Colorado. Winter sports enthusiasts know the area for its world-class alpine skiing and snowboarding at Crested Butte Mountain Resort, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and ice fishing. Crested Butte has been identified as one of the most romantic ski resorts in the West by Ski Snowboard America & Canada.

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

For more information on Valentine’s Week in Gunnison-Crested Butte visit www.GunnisonCrestedButte.com

Winter Activities in Alaska

Alaskans have always embraced winter, and are increasingly encouraging travelers to do the same with a lineup of participation-required activities around the state. Yukigassen – a team snowball fight tournament that will be held for the first time in the United States in Anchorage – is the freshest 2011 offering.

Drawing thousands of spectators every year in Japan, Yukigassen will be the newest program addition to the 76th annual Fur Rendezvous, a winter celebration in Anchorage held from February 25 to March 6. Called "Fur Rondy" by the locals, the festival is known for its wacky, family-friendly events, and Yukigassen shouldn't prove any different. 

Originating from the town of Sobetsu in Japan, "yuki" translates to snow, and "gassen" to battle – and an epic snow battle it will be. Two teams of seven follow strict game regulations enforced by Yukigassen officials on a rectangular court with chateaus, shelters and flags.

Visitors are encouraged to get involved in a Yukigassen team, as well as in other hands-on activities throughout the state. The possibilities range from skiing to dog mushing and snowmobiling:

The Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race draws spectators from around the world to Alaska each year. This winter, PAWS for Adventure not only will teach guests to drive their own team of sled dogs on multi-day tours out of Fairbanks, but also will host them overnight at the company's newly acquired Tolovana Roadhouse, the first transfer point in the original lifesaving serum run to Nome, which the Iditarod celebrates.

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

To plan a trip to Alaska visit www.TravelAlaska.com

Kansas Kicks-Off Sesquicentennial with Kansas Day

As the country gears up for the 150th anniversary of the Civil War, history enthusiasts will be interested in learning the key role Kansas played in the actual beginning of the Civil War. The border wars between Kansas and Missouri and Kansas’s decision to be a free or slave state created an epicenter of events that led up to the Civil War. The Battle of Black Jack was the beginning of Civil War combat in Kansas, and is also the site where a growing number of historians agree that the American Civil War began. 

Celebrating its 150th birthday, Kansas will kick-off the year’s celebrations with Kansas Day on January 29, 2011. Planned activities for the entire weekend will take place at the State Capitol, at the Kansas Museum of History and at a number of historic sites throughout the state including Constitution Hall in Lecompton, Fort Hays, the John Brown Museum in Osawatomie and Kaw Mission in Council Grove. 

Practically every community in Kansas will be celebrating the Sesquicentennial. Its capital, Topeka, has played a significant role in the nation’s fight for freedom since its inception in 1854. Apart from special functions, visitors can experience Topeka’s pivotal role in American history at several first-class attractions including the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site & Museum, The Kansas Museum of History and the Kansas State Capitol. While you’re there, explore Topeka’s colorful past while experiencing the amenities of the present day, including 20 fascinating attractions, 16 art galleries, five performing arts facilities, established annual events, delectable dining and unique shopping.

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

To see a listing of events celebrating the Sesquicentennial throughout the year, visit www.TravelKS.com, and click on the 150th icon.

Your Favorite Childhood Stories in Massachusetts

Experience Christmas from the pages of your favorite, classic children’s storybooks! From Dr. Seuss books recreated in dazzling lights to reliving Louisa May Alcott’s “LItle Women” in her childhood home, Massachusetts offers a wealth of holiday delights to tempt families during the Christmas season.  Here are just a few highlights and possible itinerary stops in Massachusetts.


Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas, Stockbridge: Nestled in the beautiful Berkshires, the town made famous by Norman Rockwell becomes an enchanting New England storybook setting decorated with holiday wreaths and festive lights. Experience Christmas of long-ago as the town recreates Rockwell’s evocative Stockbridge at Christmas painting, complete with vintage automobiles and stunning holiday decorations. Fun-filled family activities include holiday house tours, horse drawn carriage rides, caroling, concerts and visits with Santa.

Bright Nights at Forest Park, Springfield: One of New England's most popular holiday destinations and largest holiday lighting display, historic Forest Park is illuminated with hundreds of spectacular Christmas lights. The park pays tribute to hometown children’s author Theodore Seuss Geisel with Seuss Land, a glittering panoramic light display featuring Cat in the Hat, Horton and other beloved characters. 

Higgins Armory Museum, Worcester: Celebrate the season with the revelry of the Middle Ages and recreate the fantasy world of Chronicles of Narnia! Featuring arms and armor ranging from ancient Greek Corinthian helmets to suits of armor crafted during the Renaissance, this one-of-a-kind museum displays artifacts and more than 35 suits of armor amidst tapestries, stained glass and soaring ceilings. 

Orchard House, Concord:  This authentically-preserved historic house was home to Louisa May Alcott and her family. See Louisa’s bedroom where she wrote Little Women and other stories that would captivate children. The Orchard House features a Christmas shop brimming with terrific gift ideas.
 
For more information about top events in Massachusetts take a look at the Top Events USA selection of the annual main festivals and events in Massachusetts.

For more information visit: www.massvacation.com.

Kentucky Hosts World Equestrian Championships

The equestrian world will convene in Lexington, Kentucky for 16 days from September 25 to take part in the pageantry and splendor of the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.

The World Equestrian Games will decide the world championships in eight equestrian sports (which are unrelated to the Bluegrass State’s world-famous thoroughbreds) – dressage, driving, endurance, eventing, jumping, para dressage, reining and vaulting. Some 800 athletes and 900 horses representing more than 60 countries will be there for the largest equestrian event ever held in the U.S.

The opening ceremonies on the evening of September 25 will include many equine entertainers, over 200 horses, a symphony orchestra, dancers, headline musicians, movement corps as well as local and international celebrities and dignitaries.

Every day of the Games will be jam-packed with activities, entertainment, attractions and competitions. Visitors to the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington during this time will get not only a generous dose of horsemanship at the Games, but a generous dose of the state's unbridled spirit and Southern hospitality at the Kentucky Experience, a massive interactive facility on the grounds of the Horse Park.

A Bluegrass version of Disneyworld's Epcot Center, the 25,000-square-foot space will utilize five distinctive areas - connected by a promenade - to give visitors a tutorial on all things Kentucky. So, there you have it - a trip through Kentucky's nine distinctive regions - and the opportunity to taste its food, hear its music and buy its products - without having to leave the Kentucky Horse Park.

A concert series, the Alltech Fortnight Festival, will take place at various venues across Kentucky over the 16-days.

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

For more information visit: http://www.alltechfeigames.com/

Myrtle Beach MayFest Hosts Wave of Celebrations

The Myrtle Beach area of South Carolina is introducing four inaugural events to its quintessential summer entertainment lineup along with the official introduction of its first-ever oceanfront boardwalk.

The month of festivities coined as Myrtle Beach MayFest will be marked by celebrity appearances, music, food and entertainment for all ages, along with a variety of special hotel deals throughout the month.

Kicking off MayFest is the Arts & Film Celebration on May 1 with a lineup that includes free celebrity meet-and-greets with Alex Meraz of “Twilight: New Moon” and Catherine Bell of Lifetime Movie Network’s “Army Wives.” Visitors will enjoy outdoor movies, R&B and jazz bands, food, arts and craft vendors, fireworks and more. The event will be held in conjunction with Arts & Film Celebration Week, now through to May 2, with the F.A.M.E. (Film, Arts, Music, Entertainment) Festival.

On May 15 Myrtle Beach will officially unveil its brand new, mile-long, oceanfront boardwalk with a ribbon cutting ceremony and Beach Music Festival.

The month-long party continues with the Beach Blast! Christian Music Festival on May 22. To conclude the May festivities, Memorial Day weekend will feature a free concert with headliner Jordin Sparks - winner of American Idol’s sixth season - along with other Disney & Nickelodeon performers.

The Myrtle Beach area, popularly known as the Grand Strand, stretches from Little River to Pawleys Island, comprising 12 distinct cities along the South Carolina coast. It is home to world-class golf, 60 miles of sandy beaches, an assortment of entertainment and family attractions and Southern hospitality.

For more information about top events in South Carolina, take a look at the Top Events USA selection of the annual main festivals and events in South Carolina at www.topeventsusa.com/state-events-south-carolina.html

For specific dates/times and more information on Myrtle Beach MayFest visit www.MyrtleBeachMayfest.com

JANUARY EVENTS AND FESTIVALS ACROSS VIRGINIA

Virginia is for Lovers and visitors will love the many events and festivals awaiting them there in January ..... and for the rest of the new year.

Southern Virginia
Usher in 2010 with a visit to the past in Martinsville in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains where The Virginia Museum of Natural History will host its 5th annual Dino Day Festival on January 23.

The festival includes a variety of dinosaur exhibits, displays and programs for visitors of all ages. The festival features a Dino Dig Pit, Dino Films, Costumed Dino Characters, and educational activities for visitors of all ages.

Heart of Appalachia
In Richlands on January 24, Citizens for the Arts presents Laura Ingalls Wilder. One of America's most beloved authors shines brightly in ArtsPower's heartfelt musical about the pioneerin' adventures of Laura Ingalls and her loving family as they search for the perfect little house they can call home.

Central Virginia
There’s a Ghost Watch at Historic Centre Hill Mansion in Petersburg on January 24. Travel back in time and tour the house while listening to the "ghostly stories" associated with the mansion. Hear the Civil War soldiers as they clamber up and down the staircase with swords rattling. Learn how a young boy woke up and discovered a woman dressed in white in his room.

Shenandoah Valley
Contestants from around the United States compete for national recognition in the IPRA sanctioned Salem Stampede Championship Rodeo in Salem from January 8 – 10. Events include bull riding, barrel racing, calf roping, steer wrestling and bareback and saddle bronc riding among others.

The Stonewall Jackson Birthday Celebration at the Stonewall Jackson House in Lexington on January 21 will include birthday cake, hot apple cider, and free tours of the Stonewall Jackson House – the only home the famous Confederate general ever owned.

Hampton Roads
The James River Plantation Progressive Candlelight Winter Tour is scheduled for Williamsburg on January 16, 23, 30. Visitors can explore collections of antiques and historic buildings while touring Piney Grove at Southall's Plantation. This special evening includes very special "Tours-by-the-Owners”, with cider and cookies fireside in the elegant dining room of Ashland.

Blue Ridge Highlands
Damascus hosts Winterfest on the Virginia Creeper Trail on January 16. There will be dogsleds on the Virginia Creeper Trail, Alaska lumberjack competition, daschund race and more. Teams of dogsleds will relay "serum" a total of 16 miles to the park in Damascus. there is magic and more outdoor entertainment for the entire family.

Northern Virginia
Celebrate the 283rd anniversary of Hugh Mercer's Birthday in Fredericksburg on January 17. You'll learn from Dr. Mercer's assistants what combination of herbs, extracts and barks were used to cure what ails you. Take a walk in the herb garden. Leeches, lancets, snakeroot, and crab claws made up just some of the remedies.

For more information about top events in Virginia, take a look at the Top Events USA selection of the annual main festivals and events in Virginia at www.topeventsusa.com/state-events-virginia.html

Or, take a look at the official web site for Virginia at www.virginia.org/

MOBILE MARDI GRAS A FAMILY CELEBRATION

Mobile is not only recognized as celebrating the first-known American Mardi Gras celebration in 1703 (yes, even before New Orleans), but also as home to the "America's Family Mardi Gras" which delights all ages from across the nation.

This magnificent celebration lasts for nearly three weeks (January 29 to February 16) and culminates on Fat Tuesday, the day before Lent. The entire celebration attracts crowds in excess of one-million people annually.

For weeks, the streets of downtown Mobile Bay are filled with the sights and sounds of live marching bands, brilliant-colored floats and excited crowds of parade goers. The floats are glowing spectacles manned by masked riders from secret Mardi Gras societies festooned in satin and sequins. They are armed with crowd-pleasing "throws" such as beads, moon pies, doubloons and candy.

Mardi Gras must be experienced to be fully understood and Mobile Bay is the perfect place to do so. For more information, parade schedules and maps call 1-800-5-MOBILE. Parades on Dauphin Island begin January 16 and parades in downtown Mobile begin January 29.

In Mobile where it all began you can learn about Mardi Gras customs and take a guided field trip through the new Mardi Gras Museum showcasing gowns, trains and crowns of Mardi Gras Kings and Queens. See the King, Queen and their royal court arrive during the beautiful Floral Parade.

For more information about top events in Alabama, take a look at the Top Events USA selection of the annual main festivals and events in Alabama at http://www.topeventsusa.com/state-events-alabama.html

Or, take a look at the official web site for Mobile at www.mobile.org/

ATLANTA KEEPS THE DREAM ALIVE

This week (January 11 to 18) the Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change hosts many special events in celebration and appreciation of the civil rights icon.

The theme of the King Week Celebration activities is “Keeping the Dream Alive Remembering the Past: Forging towards the Future”, with an event every day centered on Rev. King’s teachings and principles. The March on Auburn Avenue and the Rally in the King National Park is on Monday (January 18).

The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra will pay its annual tribute, "A King Celebration," at the King Chapel of Morehouse College. Other events include the Salute to Greatness Awards banquet, which honors individuals committed to MLK's ideals, a Commemorative Service at Ebenezer Baptist Church, as well as exhibits, children's activities and concerts throughout the city.

In the early 1960s Atlanta became the cultural catalyst for the Civil Rights Movement. The activists quickly found their spiritual center within the Sweet Auburn district. Today, Auburn Avenue features the Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change, the Martin Luther King National Park Service Visitors Center, King’s birth home, his and his wife’s Coretta Scott King’s tombs, and Ebenezer Baptist Church where he and his father preached.

In 2004, the International Civil Rights Walk of Fame was unveiled at the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site. Using genuine shoes from each of the honorees to create the footsteps, the Walk of Fame inducted 17 inaugural members including Jimmy Carter, Jesse J. Jackson Sr., Thurgood Marshall, Rosa Parks and Andrew Young. Each year, more foot soldiers are added to the Walk of Fame. There are hundreds of additional spaces designated for future placements of worthy footsteps.

For more information about top events in Georgia, take a look at the Top Events USA selection of the annual main festivals and events in Georgia at www.topeventsusa.com/state-events-georgia.html

Or, take a look at the official web site for Atlanta at www.atlanta.net/

FEELING CRABBY? ESCAPE TO THE OREGON COAST THIS WINTER



It’s Dungeness crab season on the Oregon Coast, the perfect time to escape those winter doldrums, buoy your spirits and feast on fresh-caught Dungeness crab amidst the bracing climes that await you here.

The People’s Coast is serving up a feast for all your senses this winter (the photo of the fresh Dungeness crab is by courtesy of the Oregon Coast Visitors Association). Taste the delights of the deep at the annual Jambalaya Cook-off at the Culinary Center in Lincoln City on January 30 – admission is free, with tasting sized portions available for a small fee. It features a live cooking demonstration.

Or enjoy the 3rd annual Wine, Beer, Seafood & Music Festival: Confluence 2010 in Gardiner from February 12 to 14. Situated between Florence and Coos Bay on the southern end of the Central Coast, this event will take place at the old W.F. Jewett School building in Gardiner. Events include a “Wine Taster’s Dinner”, many bands performing various genres of music, and Oregon wine and microbrewery tastings. Sunday offers chowder samplings during the annual Reedsport and Winchester Bay Chowder Cook-Off.

Hear three days of tall tales and traditional songs of the sea by FisherPoets on the Edge in Newport from January 16 to 18. And talking about cutting edge - there’s even the 25th annual Barbershop Cabaret Show in Seaside on January 15 and 16.

The 5th annual Jazz in January in Newport is on January 23. An exciting night of music, food and drink benefiting the preservation and restoration of the Yaquina Lighthouses.

The annual Winter Folk Festival in Florence on Saturday and Sunday January 23 and 24 offers two days filled with top folk music talent from across the US, including Misty River and The Brothers Four, jam sessions, workshops, crafts, demonstrations and food featuring the Amateur Pie Contest.

Earlier in the month, on Saturday afternoon January 9 be in Florence for the G.A.L.A. Art Walk. Five Florence galleries full of fine art and gifts invite you to hop on the tour bus. Meet the artists and enjoy refreshments along the way. Or you can visit the galleries on your own.

Uncover a chance to win $10,000 in gold coins in - where else - Gold Beach. Its city-wide “Stay & Win $10,000 in Gold” gives visitors a chance to win $10,000 in gold coins now through September 2010. Gold Beach offers a variety of very affordable lodging options and great seafood! While in Gold Beach this winter; whale & storm watch, take in a concert & theater performance, visit the fabulous ‘Gold Rush Center’ art exhibits and others.

For more information about top events in Oregon, take a look at the Top Events USA selection of the annual main festivals and events in Oregon at http://www.topeventsusa.com/state-events-oregon.html

Or, take a look at the official web site for Oregon Coast at http://visittheoregoncoast.com/

CELEBRATE ELVIS’ 75TH BIRTHDAY IN MISSISSIPPI

Get ready to celebrate the 75th Birthday Anniversary of the King of Rock and Roll – Elvis Presley – in the birthplace of America’s music, Mississippi!

“Elvis Presley’s 75th Birthday Celebration, beginning on January 7 in Tupelo, promises a variety of birthday week events that will help kick-off the year and continue the celebration of Mississippi’s musical influence on the world,” stated Mississippi Development Authority Tourism Director Mary Beth Wilkerson. “Additional events like “Sparkle & Twang: Marty Stuart’s American Musical Odyssey” will occur throughout 2010 to enhance the tourism experience for our guests.”

The party begins in the city of his birthplace, Tupelo, Mississippi, on Thursday, January 7 at the Lyric Theatre. Two champions from the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Contest, Bill Cherry and Brandon Bennett, will perform all the classic hits by the man who from his humble beginnings in northeast Mississippi became the undisputed King of Rock and Roll. Tickets are $20 to $79.

On Friday, January 8, 2010, at the Elvis Presley Birthplace, you’re invited to enjoy free admission to the house all day, as well as all the other attractions at the memorial garden. At 1 p.m., Tupelo city leaders and other officials will be on hand to commemorate the day, and of course, like any great birthday party, a cake will be served to celebrate 75 years of the life and legend of Elvis.

Attractions in the garden represent Elvis’ childhood including the “walk of life” around the birthplace, which features 42 granite blocks representing each year of Elvis’ life, a “fountain of life,” which symbolizes his life spent in Tupelo, and a “story wall” featuring eleven childhood stories as told by boyhood friends.

The site also showcases a chapel for events and meditation. The newest attraction is the Assembly of God Church Elvis attended as a young boy. The building has been fully restored and offers a presentation of an old-fashioned worship service.

For more information about top events in Mississippi, take a look at the Top Events USA selection of the annual main festivals and events in Mississippi at http://www.topeventsusa.com/state-events-mississippi.html

Or, take a look at the official web site for Mississippi at http://www.visitmississippi.org/

‘TIS THE SEASON FOR CHEERFUL EVENTS IN ILLINOIS

Illinois offers a flurry of festive happenings as popular attractions showcase the spirit of the season – with Chicago leading the way.

One of the most anticipated and visited markets in the city, Christkindlmarket at Daley Plaza, through to Dec. 24, has already kicked off. Visit this seasonally delightful German heritage festival and bazaar and witness the plaza transformed into a holiday wonderland where you can procure German trinkets and taste delicious holiday fare such as savory sausages and sweet waffles. Be sure to grab a glass of Gluhwein, a traditional German holiday hot spiced wine to please your palate and warm your heart, in a take-home souvenir mug.

Visit the Winter Wonderfest at Navy Pier, through to January 3. Navy Pier turns into a magnificent winter spectacle of attractions, food and more. The Winter Wonderfest transports patrons to a land of beautiful, ornate winter scenes and brings the magic of the holidays to life. It’s a great family destination.

Lace up your skates and glide through an ice rink in the heart of the city at the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink in Millennium Park, open for the winter season until March 14. The scenic rink has been a staple of winter festivities in Chicago for nine years. Afterwards, warm up with some hot chocolate, browse the surrounding shops or stroll through Millennium Park to see how it transforms in the winter months.

Visit the Chicago Botanic Garden as the Wonderland Express returns to the Garden, until January 3. Take a trip through a wonderland of twinkling lights and holiday beauty where 750,000 lights sparkle outside, while inside, a 10,000 square-foot exhibition of miniature trains winds over bridges, past waterfalls and through more than 80 mini-replicas of Chicago?s favorite landmarks. A brand new ice skating rink will be on the Esplanade, or you can snowshoe on the paths of the McDonald Woods.

Nearly 1 million twinkling lights illuminate the zoo’s walkways during Brookfield Zoo’s 28th Annual Holiday Magic, every weekend in December. After visiting Santa at the Candy Cane Corner, enjoy ice-carving demonstrations, magicians and live musical performances, sample holiday treats and browse the gift shops with hundreds of unique items. New this year is the Wild Lights Spectacular light show at Roosevelt Fountain.

Enter a world of exquisite Christmas extravagance at “A Glimpse of Christmas Past” at the Cuneo Museum until December 31. The stunning mansion will be decorated in holiday finery; lights, garland, decorated trees and poinsettias add festive beauty to an already breathtaking backdrop. And the Winter Wonderland Holiday Light Show at the museum, until January 2, is a Lake County tradition.

For more information about top events in Illinois, take a look at the Top Events USA selection of the annual main festivals and events in Illinois at http://www.topeventsusa.com/state-events-illinois.html

Or, take a look at the official web site for Illinois at http://www.enjoyillinois.com

CABS, CHARDS, AND CHEFS TO CONGREGATE IN THE CRESCENT CITY

Plans are underway for the 2010 New Orleans Wine & Food Experience (NOWFE), in the city that ranks number one in ten categories in Travel + Leisure’s “America’s Favorite Cities” survey.

NOWFE, which also garners its own high rankings as a “perennial ‘Top Ten' Wine and Food festival,” as noted in Wine Enthusiast, features over 175 wineries and more than 75 celebrated restaurants.

The 5-day event, which has raised nearly $1,000,000 for local charities, will take place May 25–29, 2010 in various locations throughout historic New Orleans.

“No other city can offer the rich history, beautiful landscape and architecture, eclectic art, and diverse music scene – not to mention some of the best cuisine in the country – along side one-thousand different vintages,” says Octavio Mantilla, NOWFE President. “Our events take place right in the heart of the city, where guests can enjoy the wine and food, while partaking in shopping, live entertainment, French Quarter revelry or just one-of-a-kind people-watching.”

Some of New Orleans most famous landmarks will serve as backdrop to the 2010 event. More than 30 of New Orleans most talked about restaurants will host Wine Dinners on Wednesday, May 26; the popular Royal Street Stroll will take place on Thursday, May 27, while the Louisiana Superdome will serve as the home of the Grand Tastings on Friday, May 28 and Saturday, May 29.

“Each year NOWFE adds new programs, seminars and events to the schedule,” states Joyce Godbold, NOWFE Executive Director. “We try to keep the seminars fresh, relevant and exciting.”

This year’s seminars will include: “The Craft of Curing”, a lesson on the intricacies of curing meats; a look at the bounty of Gulf seafood at “Gone Gulfing”, “Let them Eat Cake” will showcase dessert wines and their accompaniments, “Romancing the Rhone”, will explore Rhone varietals, and a special champagne & sushi seminar.

“New Orleans just gives you a good feeling, and NOWFE really uncorks that sentiment,” adds Mantilla. “We invite everyone to come and be immersed in the feeling that is New Orleans.”

The New Orleans Wine & Food Experience is a non-profit organization. The Board of the New Orleans Wine & Food Experience donates 100% of the events' profit to support their programs and foundations. Proceeds from the 2009 event benefited University of New Orleans School of Hotel, Restaurant & Tourism, the Louisiana Restaurant Association's ProStart Program, The Chef John Folse Culinary Institute, Delgado Community College Culinary Arts Program, New Orleans Center for the Creative Arts, Girls First, Cancer Crusaders, Animal Rescue of New Orleans, Coach Sean Payton's Play It Forward Foundation and Fore! Kids Foundation.

For more top events in Louisiana take a look at the Top Events USA pages on Louisiana top events and festivals at http://www.topeventsusa.com/state-events-louisiana.html

SOUTH BEACH WINE AND CULINARY EXTRAVAGANZA

The Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival is a one-of-a-kind extravaganza – a national, star-studded, four-day destination event showcasing the talents of the world’s most renowned winemakers, spirits producers, chefs and culinary personalities.

The Festival will take place in and around the sun and sand of Miami’s South Beach this February 25-28, 2010, debuting some new events and returning classics.

True to fashion, the ninth annual wine and culinary extravaganza returns with events highlighting the latest trends in the industry. The 2010 Tribute Dinner honoree is world-renowned culinary master Daniel Boulud, a winner of multiple awards from the James Beard Foundation and recipient of the Chevalier de la Légion d’honneur from the French government for his contribution to the advancement of French culinary culture, among several other accolades.

The celebration will feature dishes from some of the finest chefs: Eric Ripert, Paul Bartolotta, Claude Troigros, Nobu Matsuhisa, and Festival host hotel Loews Miami Beach executive chef Gordon Maybury.

Exciting new additions to the 2010 Festival include:
The Festival highlights the talents of the hottest new dining destination in Miami, the Miami Design District, with a one-of-a-kind dining opportunity to taste the culinary expertise of chefs from Senora Martinez, Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink, Pacific Time, and Fratelli Lyon – all in one evening!

The Barilla Interactive Lunch series at the Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables receives a makeover as the Festival debuts a Barilla Interactive Dinner hosted by Lidia Bastianich and her son, wine specialist Joe Bastianich.

Ming Tsai will host a late night Dim Sum & Disco party under the alluring atmosphere of the Setai.

Food Network stars including Guy Fieri (Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives), Paula Deen (Paula’s Best Dishes), Pat and Gina Neely (Down Home with The Neelys), and Sandra Lee (Sandra’s Money Saving Meals) will be on-hand for culinary demonstrations and book signings at the Whole Foods Market Grand Tasting Village, late night parties, and more!

Enjoy the Wine Spectator wine seminars with executive editor Thomas Matthews and senior editor Bruce Sanderson. Also, wine aficionados Gary Vaynerchuk, Kevin Zraly and Mark Oldman will be on-hand to help navigate both novices and experts thru the finest selections in the Southern Wine & Spirits of Florida portfolio at the Bank of America lifestyle seminars.

Festival favorites return, re-invented with fresh new faces:
The Amstel Light Burger Bash hosted by Rachael Ray presented by Allen Brothers will feature top burger-making gurus, like the Shake Shack, Bobby Flay, Michael Symon, and Laurent Tourondel, along with People’s Choice Award Winner from the 2009 Festival, Spike Mendelsohn.

The Festival’s perfect pairing of barbeque and champagne on the beach will return with a BAM, as the Perrier-Jouët BubbleQ hosted by Emeril Lagasse. Last year’s tribute dinner honoree will play host to some of the finest names on the grill, including John Besh, Dean Fearing, Chris Lilly, Adam Perry Lang, Todd English, Aarón Sánchez, and many more.

Wine Spectator’s Best of the Best sponsored by Bank of America will return at the illustrious Fontainebleau Miami Beach, the picture perfect setting to find some of the world’s best winemakers personally pouring their selections alongside premier chefs serving their delicacies. Among the list of participating wineries for this year is Au Bon Climat, Caymus Vineyards, Joseph Phelps Vineyards, Opus One Winery, Rubicon Estate, and several more additions to come. Culinary participants for Wine Spectator’s Best of the Best in 2010 include David Burke, Scott Conant, Paul Liebrandt, Michael White, Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo, and others.

The Festival’s family favorite, South Beach Diet presents Fun and Fit as a Family is going into its third year, and will take place again at the tropical grounds of Jungle Island in Miami. Fun and Fit as a Family will again feature the Kellogg’s Kidz Kitchen, plus the wildly popular Food Labs hosted by Food Network and Share Our Strength®, where kids can cook healthy recipes alongside top chefs; plus fitness activities, healthy food tastings and more! Jungle Island is also home all year long to the Children’s Sustainable Food Garden, which features different herbs and vegetables of a completely organic nature and provides an opportunity for children to interact with these items in a way that engages all of the senses. Check out the fun at www.funandfitasafamily.com.

All proceeds of the Festival benefit the students of the Florida International University School of Hospitality and Tourism Management who also assist Festival organizers with sponsorship fulfilment, restaurant and exhibitor recruitment, logistics, and inventory as well as working alongside some of the world’s greatest celebrity chefs and winemakers. In addition to receiving a first-rate education in one of the country’s most diversified hospitality and tourism markets, these students are provided the opportunity to work hands-on with some of the industry’s most experienced leaders.

The Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival presented by Food & Wine is produced by Florida International University and Southern Wine & Spirits of Florida with the support of the Miami Beach Visitors & Convention Authority and the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs. For more information about the Festival, visit www.sobewineandfoodfest.com .

For more information about other top events in Florida, take a look at The Top Events USA selection of the annual main festivals and events in Florida at http://www.topeventsusa.com/state-events-florida.html

New Mexico’s 2010 Tournament of Roses® Parade Features Balloons, Chuck Jones’ Pepé Le Pew

Academy-Award®-winning Pepé Le Pew and Penelope Pussycat, entertainers of the young and the young at heart for more than 60 years, will take to the southern California skies aboard one of the Land of Enchantment’s most iconic images when New Mexico’s float – “Enchantment is in the Air” - travels Colorado Blvd. in Pasadena, California January 1 in the 2010 Tournament of Roses® Parade.

The float design was unveiled this evening (October 29, 2009) at a reception at the Anderson-Abruzzo International Balloon Museum – a fitting location considering New Mexico is America’s premier ballooning capital; and Pepé Le Pew and Penelope Pussycat were created by the late cartoonist Chuck Jones. Even with his passing, Chuck’s ties to New Mexico remain strong - one of the three Chuck Jones Galleries is located near the Santa Fe Plaza.

The parade begins at 9 a.m. Mountain Time on New Year’s Day.

This is the fourth time in the past five years that New Mexico will be represented by a float in the Tournament of Roses® Parade, and it follows on the heels of last year’s float, “Hats Off To New Mexico – Beep Beep,” starring Wile E. Coyote and Roadrunner, which won the Bob Hope Humor (“most comical and amusing”). The 2008 float, featuring Roswell aliens and Spaceport America, was also honored, as winner of the as Grand Marshal’s Trophy “for excellence in creative concept and design.” It is one of the top three awards given each year.

Nearly 40 million Americans in 16.5 million households tuned in to watch the parade on nine national and international television networks each year. The Parade is also broadcast live in 150 countries and territories worldwide. Other media-oriented events promoting New Mexico in Southern California are also being planned.

Once again, the New Mexico float is designed by award-winning float designer Raul Rodriguez and built by Fiesta Parade Floats of Pasadena, Calif. under contract with the Tourism Department.

Nothing says “A Cut Above the Rest” (the theme of the 2010 Tournament of Roses Parade) like New Mexico’s hot air balloons. “It can be a huge undertaking or something quite simple,” Secretary Cerletti said of the challenge to create a float that can represent New Mexico’s diverse entertainment offering in a colorful, eye-catching design.

The love-struck French skunk Pepé Le Pew is seeking “l’amour” as he yet again is in romantic pursuit to seduce Penelope Pussycat with amorous gifts of red roses and a heart-shaped box of chocolates. In her attempt to escape the ever-persistent Pepé, Penelope dangles precariously from the gondola of a swaying hot-air balloon. Pepé turns from side-to-side as he offers tokens of his affections.

The picturesque landscapes of New Mexico are comically depicted in animation art form from the snow-capped trees of the majestic mountains, through the teetering rock formations on down to the colorful desert floor bursting alive with blooming yuccas.

Pepé and Penelope will be artistically crafted in layers of velvety black onion seed and crisp white coconut flakes. The colorful hot air balloons are created in a rainbow of materials including yellow and gold strawflower petals, green split peas, blue, hot pink and purple sinuata statice, dehydrated carrot and red bell peppers, safflower spice, sweet rice and coconut flakes. The gondola baskets are woven in cornhusk and kiwi vines. Fiesta Parade Floats worked closely with Warner Bros. to insure the figures of Pepé Le Pew and Penelope Pussycat were reproduced to their exact specifications.

The colorful landscape of New Mexico comes vividly alive in over 50,000 roses. The unique rock formations are created in butterscotch and bronze chrysanthemums with striations of roses including brown Leonodis, Café Ole, Coffee Break and tan Caramel and Sahara roses. The desert floor comes vibrantly alive in orange rose shades of Saturno, Star 2000, Mercedes, Tropical Amazon and Verano. Fluffy clouds of white coconut flakes float above the landscape floor. Yucca blossoms have been created in over 10,000 white dendrobium orchid florets individually glued onto small welded rods.

For more information on other top events in California visit www.topeventsusa.com/state-events-california.html and for top events in New Mexico visit www.topeventsusa.com/state-events-new-mexico.html

DETAILS OF NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATION IN NEW YORK CITY

When the second-by-second countdown to midnight on December 31 starts, the eyes of the world are on New York’s Times Square, gathering place for hundreds of thousands of revelers and focal point for a billion worldwide television viewers.

The event is a global tradition, a collective farewell to the departing year as the world-famous New Year’s Eve Ball descend from the flagpole atop One Times Square at midnight.

Here is the schedule for the New Year’s Eve festivities:

4pm: The Revelers
Revelers start arriving late in the afternoon on New Year's Eve. By approximately 4pm, the “bow tie” of Times Square (42nd–47th Streets, between Broadway and Seventh Avenue) becomes a focal point for the festivities. The NYPD will direct revelers to gather in separate viewing sections. As one section fills up, police will direct new arrivals to the next section. As the evening progresses, revelers continue to fill the Times Square neighborhood along Broadway and Seventh Avenue, and as far north as Central Park.

6–6:03 pm - Lighting and Raising the Times Square New Year’s Eve Ball
The celebration begins with the lighting and raising of the New Year’s Eve Ball atop One Times Square.

11:59pm - The 60-Second Countdown
New York City Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg and the Times Square 2010 special guest (to be announced) will push the Waterford crystal button that signals the descent of the New Year’s Eve Ball, and lead the 60-second countdown to the New Year atop the Countdown Stage at Duffy Square (the center island from Broadway to Seventh Avenue between 46th and 47th Streets).

Midnight - 2010 Sign
At the stroke of midnight, the lights on the New Year’s Eve Ball are turned off as the numerals “2010” are illuminated high above Times Square.

Several events will take place leading up to the ball drop, including:

Confetti Wishing Wall–The Confetti Wishing Wall will be at the Times Square Information Center, located at Broadway between 46th and 47th Streets). New Year’s Eve is a time when people of every background come together to express a collective hope for renewal; a yearning for a better personal or global future can sometimes take the form of resolutions or wishes. With that in mind, visitors to the Information Center are invited to write their wishes and resolutions for 2010 on pieces of paper, which will be displayed on the wall. For those who cannot make it to Times Square to add their wishes, a virtual wall has been created at timessquarenyc.org. At midnight on December 31, the wish papers will become part of the confetti that rains down on the City. (Note: specific dates of Confetti Wishing Wall to be posted at timessquarenyc.org)

Good Riddance Day—The co-organizers of New Year’s Eve in Times Square (Times Square Alliance and Countdown Entertainment) are inviting the public to say good-bye, once and for all, to those bad memories at the third annual Good Riddance Day. Shredders will be available for use in Duffy Square so everyone can discard their distasteful, embarrassing and downright depressing memories from 2009. (Note: specific date of Good Riddance Day to be posted at timessquarenyc.org)

Other New Year’s Eve Events in NYC:

For those seeking other New Year’s Eve entertainment options beyond Times Square, Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises is offering a New Year’s Eve party cruise, which includes a full open bar, hors d’oeuvres, a nonstop DJ, party favors and a champagne toast at midnight. Tickets for the three-hour cruise are $120 (must be 18 for the cruise, and 21 to drink alcohol). For more information, click on the ”special events” section of circleline42.com.

If a New Year’s Eve run around Central Park appeals to you, check out the Emerald Nuts Midnight Run, hosted by New York Road Runners. There will be a DJ and dancing at 10pm, a costume parade and contest at 11pm, and fireworks and a four-mile race at midnight. More information can be found at nyrr.org.

Brooklyn residents and visitors can take part in the borough’s largest New Year’s Eve party at Grand Army Plaza, which will include fireworks and live music. The best viewing locations for the fireworks are within Grand Army Plaza, along West Drive in Prospect Park, and along Prospect Park West between Grand Army Plaza and Ninth Street. For more information, go to prospectpark.org.

For more information about visiting New York City, take a look at the Top Events USA selection of top events and festivals in New York, or check out the City’s official tourism website at nycgo.com.

Photo courtesy Countdown Entertainment

HOLIDAYS BEGIN WITH LIGHT UP NIGHT IN THE NATION’S OLDEST CITY!

The City of St. Augustine will begin its annual Nights of Lights celebration during the Nights of Lights Light-up Night on November 21, 2009.

At 6:30 p.m., St. Augustine Mayor Joe Boles, along with several past St. Augustine mayors, will “Flip the Switch” that will turn on more than two million tiny white lights lining the historic buildings, plaza and narrow, brick-paved streets transforming the Nation’s Oldest City into an enchanting destination that has become one of the South’s most popular holiday getaway destinations.

In a manner befitting the Nation’s Oldest City, this inspiring display of light is based on the tradition of the town’s original Spanish colonists who placed a white candle in their windows to brighten the nights during the Christmas holidays. Continuing through January 31, 2010, St. Augustine’s Nights of Lights provides a fantastic backdrop for more than 50 festivals, special tours and events throughout St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra & The Beaches. For a complete list of Nights of Lights events, visit http://www.NightsofLights.com.

This year, visitors to St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra & The Beaches can save money during their holiday-time visit with the destination’s recently launched discount program, The Getaway Card. This exciting new discount program provides an array of discounts to some of the area's most popular attractions, restaurants, hotels, resorts, golf courses and shopping venues.

Visit http://www.MyGetawayCard.com to print your free Getaway Card and preview a list of participating outlets and offers. In addition, participating businesses in St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra and the Beaches visibly display the Getaway Card logo so that visitors can easily identify where they can save.

For more details on other annual top events in Florida, visit the Top Events Florida page at http://www.topeventsusa.com/state-events-florida.html

NYC & COMPANY INVITES GHOULS AND GOBLINS, VISITORS AND LOCALS TO
CELEBRATE HALLOWEEN IN NYC

This Halloween, hike a haunted hill, discover the creepy critters of the deep blue sea and become a character from your wildest dream.

New York City welcomes kids, teenagers, adults and families to celebrate this year’s fun-filled Halloween weekend. As visitors continue to seek value on their trips to the five boroughs, NYC & Company, the official marketing, tourism and partnership organization for the City of New York, announced today a variety of free and low-cost Halloween events and activities for all ages. As always, the Annual New York’s Village Halloween Parade is expected to draw thousands to Greenwich Village the evening of Halloween, but there are many other events leading up to October 31 that will get visitors and residents excited for this month’s spooky festivities.

“New York City is a great place to celebrate all occasions,” said George Fertitta, CEO of NYC & Company. “Halloween happens to be one of the most exciting times because everyone participates. Whether you’re trick-or-treating, pumpkin picking or getting into costume, Halloween allows all to celebrate the fall with kid-friendly and family-oriented indoor and outdoor activities.”

Enjoy the brisk days of autumn with eerily fun Halloween-inspired happenings across the five boroughs.

The Bronx:
Take a haunted safari, go on a hayride, watch magic shows and learn how to carve animal jack-o’-lanterns and make masks at the Bronx Zoo’sBoo at the Zoo. Weekends until November 1; general admission $15 for adults and $11 for children ages 3–12 (children ages 3–12 wearing a wildlife costume will receive free admission when accompanied by an adult purchasing full-price admission; limit one child per paying adult). www.bronxzoo.org

Get ready for a full day of fun and learning at the New York Botanical Garden’s Halloween Hoorah! Play with leaves, decorate pumpkins and learn about the vampire bat. Sunday, October 25, 11am–5:45pm; all-garden admission $20 for adults and $8 for children ages 2–12. www.nybg.org

Brooklyn:
Visit the Gravesend Inn Haunted Hotel, a high-tech haunted house designed by faculty and students at the New York City College of Technology. October 16, 17, 22–24, and 29–31; admission $6 for adults and $4 for students with a valid ID and children under 12. entertainmenttechnology.org/gravesendinn

Learn about monsters of the deep at the New York Aquarium’s Halloween at the A-Scarium on Coney Island. Hear scary sea yarns, watch an expert pumpkin carver, make a sea-creature mask and trick-or-treat at holiday treat stations. October 24, 25, 31 and November 1; general admission $13 for adults and $9 for children ages 3–12 (children ages 3–12 wearing a wildlife costume will receive free admission when accompanied by an adult purchasing full-price admission; limit one child per paying adult). www.nyaquarium.org

Manhattan:
Flock to Central Park to view scarecrows at the Pumpkin Festival’s Scarecrow Contest. Register online by Friday, October 16, to secure scarecrow entry. Scarecrow viewing Saturday, October 24, noon–5pm, Bethesda Fountain in Central Park. The top three scarecrow entries from each age category will be displayed afterward at the Arsenal Gallery, which houses the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation’s headquarters. www.nycgovparks.org/email_forms/scarecrow/index.html

Prepare for goose bumps at the Nightmare: Vampires haunted house. The interactive exhibition is designed to terrify the senses while exploring the history—and horror—of vampires. October 14–18, 20–31, Nov. 1, Nov. 4–7; advance tickets $30, at the door $35. Bring children ages 10 and under on October 24 for Kids Day; tickets $15. Otherwise no children under 12 will be admitted without a parent or guardian. www.hauntedhousenyc.com

Queens:
Pick Your Own Pumpkin at the Queens County Farm Museum—the perfect activity for all ages. October 17, 18, 24, 25 and 31, 11am–4pm, weather permitting; free admission except October 25, when admission is $5 per person for the Children’s Fall Festival. Price of pumpkin based on its size. www.queensfarm.org/events.html

Venture into the woods for a Haunted Hike in Forest Park. The forest is the ultimate dwelling of creatures that go bump in the night—beware spooky surprises. Saturday, October 31, 6pm; free. www.nycparks.org

Staten Island:
Enjoy the day outside with family and friends partaking in crafts, games and costumes at the Halloween Harvest Fair at the Conference HousePark. Saturday, October 17, 11am–4pm; free admission but $10 for children’s unlimited access to inflatable slide and bounce houses. www.nycparks.org

Join the ghosts of St. George Theatre at its Halloween Extravaganza, an award-winning show that features spine-shivering special effects and illusions. Friday, October 30, 7:30pm; tickets $10, $18, $20 and $28. www.stgeorgetheatre.com/events.htm

For more information on visiting New York City at Halloween, go to www.nycgo.com.

For more information about other annual top events in New York, visit the Top Events USA page on New York at http://www.topeventsusa.com/state-events-new-york.html

150th Anniversary Commemoration of John Brown’s Raid at Harpers Ferry National Historical Park

Harpers Ferry is just one of the sites participating in a four-state commemoration for the 150th anniversary, or sesquicentennial, of legendary abolitionist John Brown’s raid Oct. 16-18, 2009.

The Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, Gov. Joe Manchin and the West Virginia Sesquicentennial of the American Civil War Commission will begin the commemoration with an opening ceremony on Thursday, Oct. 15, 2009, at 5:30 p.m., at John Brown’s Fort at Harpers Ferry National Historical Park.

“West Virginia’s Civil War heritage plays a vital role in our tourism industry, as well as provides an educational component valuable in understanding our state’s history,” said Gov. Joe Manchin. “John Brown is one of the key figures in our state’s and nation’s history and it’s a fascinating story to tell.”

A century and a half after his death, John Brown remains one of the most controversial figures in American history. On Oct. 15, 1859, Brown, along with 21 followers, came to Harpers Ferry, Va., to strike a blow against slavery. The raid failed and Brown was hanged Dec. 2, 1859. Sixteen months later, the country erupted in civil war.

“John Brown's raid drove the nation into the chasm of Civil War. After Brown, there was no more peace for this land of liberty,” adds Rebecca Harriett, superintendent at Harpers Ferry National Historical Park.

Weekend attractions and events include music, theatrical productions, living history exhibits, family and youth activities, and programs conducted by park rangers.

In addition, the West Virginia Sesquicentennial of the American Civil War Commission will host a panel discussion about the film “Madam, Martyr, and Myth: John Brown in Film,” on Friday, Oct. 16 at 6 p.m. at the John Brown Museum. Panelists include producer and director of the films “Gettysburg” and “Gods and Generals,” Ron Maxwell; Dr. Mark Snell; Dr. Charles Neimeyer; Dr. Walter Powell; and Beth White.

For more information about the John Brown Sesquicentennial, visit www.johnbrownraid.org or call 304-535-6298.

For more information on other top events taking place in the area, visit Tope Events USA at http://www.topeventsusa.com

World Class Jazz Returns to Roswell this Weekend

Still waiting until the last minute to make some weekend travel plans? Then you are in luck, as 18 world class tradition, mainstream and Latin jazz artists will join musical forces at the fourth annual Pecos Valley/Roswell Jazz Festival Friday-Sunday (October 9-11, 2009) in Roswell.

Jazz musician and composer, Dr. Roger Dickerson, a Hurricane Katrina refugee, came to Roswell to stay with his Army Band mate, Frank Schlatter. From a series of local events, Dickerson developed the Pecos Valley Jazz & Arts Festival, now known as the Roswell Jazz Festival.

“Music is an integral part of New Mexico's culture,” said Michael Cerletti, Secretary of the New Mexico Tourism Department, “and we have no better messenger than the Roswell Jazz Festival. New Mexicans and their visitors will experience a golden showcase of the kind of music that knows no bounds. The folks in Roswell are to be commended for their unlimited support of this incredible event.”

Festival returnees are Dickerson; Eddie Erickson, banjo (Los Angeles); Tom Fischer, clarinet (New Orleans); Nicki Parrot, bass, (New York City); Dan Barrett, trombone (Los Angeles); Randy Sandke, trumpet (New York City) Michael Francis, keyboards and the Music Director of the Festival (Lincoln); George Aiuvalasit, harmonica (Las Cruces); Ricky Malichi, drums (El Paso), Chris Beaty, saxophone (Portales), and Ken Tuttle, trumpet (Roswell). Festival newcomers are Harry Allen, tenor sax (New York City); Wilfred Hernandez, Latin percussion (El Paso); Chuck Redd, vibes (Washington D.C.); Ross Sportiello, piano (New York City); Eric Unsworth, bass (El Paso); Curt Warren, guitar (El Paso); and Aaron Weinstein, violin (New York City).

The free, opening concert is Friday, noon-1 p.m., on the steps of the Old County Courthouse on Main Street.

Club venues Friday (limit seating) include Peppers Lounge, 5-7 p.m. (tickets $10); Pecos Flavors Winery, 5-7 p.m. (ticket $25); and Sally Port Inn and Suites, 7:30-11:30 p.m. (adult tickets $25, student tickets $10).

Club venue Saturday is Sally Port Inn and Suites, 7:30-11:30 p.m.

Venues Sunday are Pueblo Auditorium, Third & Kentucky Streets, 10:30 a.m., (Worship in Jazz, featuring 12 festival artists and keyboard solo by Music Director Michael Francis.); and the Anderson Museum of Contemporary Art, 2-5 p.m., with Nicki Parrot, Ricki Malichi, Curt Warren, Aaron Weinstein and friends (tickets $25).

Festival spokesperson Paula Grieves says, “We have learned from previous Festivals that club settings are the most popular, and for 2009, we have chosen to continue partnerships with local businesses for the Friday night club dates at Peppers and the Pecos Flavors Winery. This year we’ve chosen to stay with two larger-setting club dates on Friday and Saturday at the Sally Port Inn and Suites. One central site with four different sets of music is a very exciting way to be up close and personal and to listen to various combinations of artists playing different types of jazz. We think this is a great approach.”

Tickets for the 2009 Roswell Jazz Festival may be purchased at the Roswell Convention Center (1-888-767-9355 or 575-624-7704. The Festival Office at the First Presbyterian Church may also be contacted, 575-622-4910, ext.13.

For more information visit http://www.pecosvalleyjazz.com/

For more information about other top events in New Mexico, please visit the New Mexico top events page at Top Events USA at http://www.topeventsusa.com/state-events-new-mexico.html