The Northern Elephant Seals: Molting Season

San Luis Obispo County is full of hulking beasts—just look north to the Piedras Blancas seal rookery. Located on Highway One, just a few miles north of San Simeon, this remarkable point of interest provides a safe refuge for thousands of migratory giant elephant seals that shore up twice a year on California's Central Coast. 

During the month of April, hordes of females and juvenile seals return to shore for the molting season, followed by the sub-adults and adult males that start to arrive in early May. Each seal remains on shore for one month to grow new skin, shed their old, and rest. Legions of locals and tourists show up as well. 

Upon arrival at the rookery, it's easy to find fascination in the seals' resting patterns, sand-flipping, and signs of molting.

Along the half-mile elephant seal boardwalk and trail, human visitors can meander along the path and pause at the sight of these behemoth marine mammals.

When visiting the rookery, you can extend your visit by walking along the bluffs for a short yet breathtaking hike. Part of the California Coastal Trail (CCT), a network of public trails that runs along the 1200-mile California coastline, just look for the entrance at the northernmost end of the parking lot. Piedra Blancas Light Station provides an impressive backdrop in the near distance.

If you meander along this path, you will find seals resting along watery enclaves with other whimsical creatures.

Just a few of the many faces of the Piedra Blancas seal rookery.

You can view these colossal elephant seals for yourself by visiting the California Central Coast.

Suit yourself!

Underground Cellar

When's the last time you indulged in a winecation? Underground Cellar, a new online wine marketplace based in San Francisco, Ca that rewards wine buyers with free upgrades to rare and private-stash bottles from prestigious wineries, is celebrating its launch with a month-long giveaway. The grand prize winner will receive a Sonoma "Winecation" Getaway for four people, including airfare, dinners, VIP winemaker experiences, and a weekend stay at the luxurious Villa Terra Nova Wine Country Retreat in Sonoma, Ca.

I know what you're thinking. Why am I digressing from the alluring wine country of San Luis Obispo County...that practically sits in my own backyard? Truth be told, an employee of Underground Cellar recently contacted me and asked if I would help promote their giveaway on my blog. I checked out their web site and found their aesthetics appealing, felt intrigued by their concept of selling wine, and applauded their nicely-done videos.

I encourage you to check out Underground Cellar's web site for yourself, and if you feel so inclined, register for a chance to win a winecation in Sonoma—one of California's spectacular wine destinations. While you're perusing their web site, pay attention to the current wine deals and purchasing platform; learn how you can get upgraded to higher-valued bottles and store your purchases for free in their state-of-the-art wine cellar in Napa, Ca; and find out how you can connect with other like-minded wine lovers. And watch those videos!

Sounds like a winner to me. 

Mariposa: Prospectors Brewing Co.

The Caifornia Gold Rush (1848 - 1855) might long be over, but in the Sierra Nevada foothill's historic Mariposa County, you can get a taste of modern-day gold. Since 2012, Prospectors Brewing Co. has been handcrafting golden suds for locals and tourists.

Their friendly, laid-back tap room, which sits at 4886 A 7th Street, just off the main drag of the township of Mariposa, lies deep in the heart of gold country. Located about 40 miles from Yosemite National Park's valley entrance, this sudsy watering hole is worth a stop if you're in their neck of the woods.

Year round, you can taste their carefully crafted brews on tap: Bootjack Blonde, a cross between a German pilsner and an American ale; Mariposa Midnight, an oaked and smoked stout; Long Tom IPA, an India pale ale; and Pistol Whipped Wheat, an American wheat beer. When I visited their tap room a few weeks ago, current seasonal selections included Poker Flat, a Belgian porter with vanilla bean, and Dirt Nap, an American barleywine. 
 

 Our tasting party went straight for the Bootjack Blonde (5.6% ABV) and the Pistol Whipped Wheat (5.8% ABV). Both brews went down clean and easy, honing our palates for more of Prospector Brewing Co.'s selections on our next visit, which I hope will be in the not-too-distant future.

 Mariposa was long ago inhabited by the Southern Miwok Indians, settled by a Spanish priest in the early 1800s, and later boomed during the 49ers Gold Rush. Remnants of these bygone eras remain studded throughout this rural northern California region.   

Mariposa is also home to the California State Mining & Mineral Museum, where you can discover California's mineral wealth, colorful history, and geologic diversity while viewing the state's official mineral collection. The brewery facility for Prospectors Brewing Co. is located near the museum, next to the county fairgrounds. 

  

So the next time you're in the Yosemite area and want a taste of local and modern history, stop in at the museum on Highway 49, then head a few miles north to Prospectors Brewing Co.'s tap room for a "taste of the gold."

 Then hit the happy trails.

20th Annual San Luis Obispo International Film Festival: Highlights!

The Fremont Theatre's richly-decorated ceiling in downtown San Luis Obispo.

A wise friend recently told me: "Creativity is the greatest gift in the world." How wonderful that  San Luis Obispo County recently played host to filmmakers, cinema fans, celebrities and creative minds alike, who came together for the San Luis Obispo International Film Festival (SLOIFF). This 5-day celebration transformed SLO County's every day utopia into a cinematic paradise, allowing guests the golden opportunity to watch artistic gems on the big screen and attend once-in-a-lifetime events.

Celebrating its 20th year, the festival's staff, board of directors, sponsors and legion of volunteers made this platinum anniversary year unforgettable. I've been attending this festival since 2007, and each year just gets better and better. When the schedule comes out, I struggle with which movies and events to choose—you just can't see them all or be everywhere at once. This year was no different. 

Adam West

Attending the Opening Night festivities was a must. American icon Adam West, best known for his role as the famous Caped Crusader in the 1960s classic television series, Batman, was honored at the Fremont Theatre. After a screening of director James Tooley's documentary, "Starring Adam West," the world's foremost Batman accepted the festival's Spotlight Award. This honor, bestowed to one of Hollywood's most humble, genuine and funny actors, brought Bat Fans and people from all ages to take part in this historic night in downtown San Luis Obispo.

After this incredible opening, the next four days were jam-packed with film, wine and fun at various locales around the county. I handpicked several key events and movies, including compelling documentaries, shorts, narrative features and special event films. Some of these movies were intense and emotional, while others brought laughter or radiated high energy to the audience. Here are a few highlights.

"Botso: The Teacher from Tbilisi"

Botso Korisheli and Charlotte Alexandar

This movies' tagline says it well: Sometimes a story is so inspiring that it must be told. The extraordinary life of one of San Luis Obispo County's long-time residents, Wachtung "Botso" Korisheli, who escaped Stalinist Georgia into Nazi Poland and Germany, eventually making his way to the United States, is one of the most compelling films I've ever watched. In spite of the devastating and tumultuous events he lived through in his native country, Mr. Korisheli, who currently resides in Morro Bay, has lived a peaceful, exemplary life as a musician, sculptor, teacher, mentor, husband, father and friend to many. It's no surprise that this movie won the Neil Travis Best in the Fest Award. 

"Boogie Stomp!"
Musician Bob Baldori directed this electrifying documentary which transports audiences into the rhythmic world of boogie woogie—an African-American style of piano that became popular in the late 1930s and early '40s that is the backbone of American music. Mr Baldori, who's been performing blues, boogie and rock for several decades and played hundreds of dates with Chuck Berry, combined talents with fellow Detroiter Bob Seeley, known to insiders as one of the best boogie players in the world. 

Actor Jeff Bridges and Director Bob Baldori at the King Vidor Reception

Their foot-stompin' journey takes them on performances all over the world, where they fuse their own style and unique talents. This mesmerizing film not only tells a tale of two great performers connecting later in life, but enlightens the audience with the rich music history that's shaped our country and the world, and compels moviegoers to get up and out of their seats. After the festival screening, Mr. Baldori asked the audience if this movie made us want to get up and dance, to which we replied a resounding: "Yes!"

Boogie Stomp! is a must-see!

Surf Nite in SLO

Honk playing live at the Fremont Theatre

Each year the SLOIFF brings its most popular event, Surf Nite in SLO, to the Fremont Theatre. This year, a packed audience got their groove on while watching the cultural icon, "Five Summer Stories." Made by Californians Greg MacGillivray and Jim Freeman, this 1972 classic surfing flick portrays a young, outlaw sport from the watershed era of the '70s, featuring surfing gurus David Nuuhiwa, Eddie Aikau, Gerry Lopez and Sam Hawk. Heralded as one of the finest surf films ever made, its original soundtrack by the band Honk introduced an original new sound to surf films at that time.  

The last time Honk played in concert after this film was over 20 years ago and the SLOIFF made history at this year's Surf Nite in SLO. After the "Five Summer Stories" festival screening, Honk rocked the stage with an eclectic mix of their songs from over the years, intermixed with tunes from this swell film, while the Fremont's giant screen splashed staggering wave scenes. Epic!

"A Birder's Guide to Everything"

Filmmaker Luke Matheny

Sometimes you just need a good laugh. This delightful coming of age tale about teenage birdwatchers brought comic relief to the SLOIFF. Co-writer Luke Matheny, the 2011 Oscar-winning "God of Love" filmmaker/star, was in attendance for an entertaining Q&A after the screening. The plot, storyline, writing and cast of this film was top-notch and it tied for Best Narrative Feature in the festival's George Sidney Independent Film Awards. Look for this playful film in select theaters and on demand, March 21st. 

King Vidor Awards & Reception
On Saturday night of the festival, actor James Cromwell presented the Dude himself—Jeff Bridges—with the SLOIFF's highest honor, the King Vidor Award. Mr. Bridges has been charming audiences since his childhood; some of his notable roles over the years include "The Last Picture Show," "Starman," "The Fisher King," "The Big Lebowski," "The Contender," and "Crazy Heart" for which he won an Oscar. The sold-out audience welcomed this Oscar winner and appreciated his laid-back, mellow persona during the Q&A with Mr. Cromwell. At the reception held later that evening at the SLO Masonic Lodge, Mr. Bridges sipped on SLO County wine while mingling for a bit with guests, providing an unforgettable experience. 

 

The San Luis Obispo International Film Festival's extraordinary influence comes but once a year. When this SLO County festival rolls around, we can't see or experience everything, but we can take with us what we've discovered. This was the SLOIFF's 20th year and I'm willing to bet that each of us who have attended the festival over the years are a little—or a lot—better for the opportunity to catch a few thought-provoking movies and creative events that don't normally come our way. 

Hats off to the SLOIFF for an ingenious 20th anniversary!

20th Annual SLOIFF: Jeff Bridges!

Last night's King Vidor Awards was nothing short of magical. Ever since the San Luis Obispo International Film Festival's (SLOIFF) announcement that Academy Award^®-winning actor, Jeff Bridges, would be receiving the festival's highest honor, the galvanized SLO air has sizzled with anticipation. 

When my parents and I arrived at the majestic Fremont Theatre in downtown San Luis Obispo at dusk, the buzz and excitement swept us away. Soon after taking our seats, my sister and her fiancée joined us and it wasn't long before the festival's dynamic duo, managing director, Charlotte Alexander, and artistic director, Wendy Eidson, kicked off this electrifying awards show.

At the beginning of this red-hot event, I had to face my fears. SLOIFF's board president, Paul Metchik, called me on stage to accept the President's Award. I stood in front of hundreds of people in the sold-out audience and gave a short acceptance speech. Terrifying but exciting! Awarded for my years of volunteer service, serving on the SLOIFF board  of directors, and helping to create the local winery participation in the festival, I couldn't have been happier. 

After the filmmaker awards the great actor, James Cromwell, presented Mr. Bridges with the King Vidor Award. Let me tell you, the Dude still abides. During the Q&A, he was warm, charismatic, honest and downright likeable. 

At the after party, held at the nearby SLO Masonic Lodge, local wineries and restaurants provided delicious sips and nibbles, while the celebrity guests of honor mingled with the ecstatic crowd. What a celebration. A truly incredulous night that I'll never forget!

Here I am on stage at the Fremont Theatre—facing my fears and feeling grateful.

Jeff Bridges, receiving his King Vidor Award.

I'm thankful I was able to share this incredible evening with my parents, my sister and her fiancée. A special thanks to my mom for gently, but firmly, pushing her way through the reception crowd to make sure she got pictures of me with both Jeff Bridges and James Cromwell. Big smile!

20th Annual SLOIFF: Day 1 of Movies!

Yesterday I cried at least twice. But I also smiled, laughed and learned a heck of a lot. By attending three screenings at the San Luis Obispo International Film Festival (SLOIFF), I watched a little-known piece of history unfold in the riveting documentary, "Second Opinion;" I discovered the heartening life story of a Morro Bay resident in "Botso: The Teacher from Tiblisi;" and I learned the whole story of the high school student who gained national attention in 2010 when she collapsed at a cross-country meet and crawled across the finish line in "Running for Jim."

Not only did these powerful documentaries bring three very different stories to life for audiences, but after each screening the filmmakers were present for Q&A's. Being able to engage in these illuminating sessions and hear their "stories behind the stories" after watching their films is what makes a film festival so extraordinary.
 

Filmmaker Eric Merola and Science Writer Ralph Moss at Downtown Cinemas in Downtown San Lius Obispo

In "Second Opinion," filmmaker Eric Merola recounted the 1970s events of science writer, Ralph Moss. Moss, who blew the whistle on a massive cover-up on a promising cancer therapy being tested at Sloan-Kettering, was also in attendance for the Q&A. This movie screens again today at 4pm at La Perla Del Mar in Shell Beach.

Wachtung "Botso" Korisheli, SLOIFF's Managing Director Charlotte Alexander, Writer/Producer Hillary Roberts Grant, Director/Producer Tom Wallters, and Producer David Thayer at the Fremont Theatre in Downtown San Luis Obispo.

"Botso: The Teacher from Tiblisi" shares the extraordinary life of one of San Luis Obispo County's long-time residents, Wachtung "Botso" Korisheli. His early hardships in Stalinist Georgia brought him to the United States, where he's lived an exemplary life as a musician, sculptor, teacher, mentor, husband, father and friend to many. This film portrays one of the most inspirational stories I've ever seen and audiences have the opportunity to watch it Sunday, March 9, at 10am at the Palm Theatre in downtown San Luis Obispo.

SLOIFF's Artistic Director Wendy Eidson and Director Robin Hauser Reynolds at the Fremont Theatre

In 2010, remember the media blitz when 16-year-old Holland Reynolds collapsed near the finish line at a cross-country meet, then crawled through the finish to secure the title for her team and her ailing coach? Her mother, Robin Hauser Reynolds, co-directed the inspirational film, "Running for Jim," which shares the story of Jim Tracy, the most decorated high school cross-country coach in California history, and serves to bring awareness to the fatal Lou Gehrig's disease (ALS), which Coach Tracy is currently battling.

I hope you can attend some of the SLOIFF's screenings and Q&A's over the next three days where you can laugh, cry and learn. That's a wrap!

20th Annual SLOIFF: Opening Night!

WHAMM! The 20th Annual San Luis Obispo International Film Festival (SLOIFF) got off to a Gotham good start. American icon Adam West, best known for his role as the famous Caped Crusader in the 1960s classic television series, Batman, was honored last night at the Fremont Theatre. 

After a screening of director James Tooley's documentary, "Starring Adam West," the world's foremost Batman accepted the festival's Spotlight Award. This honor, bestowed to one of Hollywood's most humble, genuine and funny actors, brought Bat Fans and people from all ages to take part in this historic night in downtown San Luis Obispo. 

For over 40 years, Mr. West has left his mark both as a family man as well as an actor, and the evening's captivating film, directed by his son-in-law, delved into Mr. West's early life all the way up to the present. The enthusiastic audience learned of his modest beginnings growing up on a farm in Walla Walla, Washington, his journey starting out as a young actor, his ties to San Luis Obispo, his infamous role as Batman, his setbacks in Hollywood, his many accomplishments in TV and film leading up to the present day, and his real-life role as a husband and father. After the movie, audience members eagerly lined up to ask questions, thank him...and one lucky man even checked off a bucket list item. 

"Rhett...get in the batmobile," Mr. West playfully demanded into the microphone. The audience laughed and Rhett walked back to his seat with a smile and a glow. 

It was easy to see how Mr. West's starring role from the 60s still leaves a lasting impression. A woman thanked him for making her difficult childhood better by being able to watch his show. Another woman thanked him for his influence and talked proudly of pursuing live theater. She even professed a Batman tattoo on her chest. A confident-sounding young boy admitted he was nervous to stand in line to ask Mr. West if he was ever nervous when he filmed his shows. Mr. West responded, "Always!" and commended his young fan.

The repertoire between Mr. West and his adoring audience was nothing short of ZAMM! He is one of the most genuine celebrities I've ever encountered at the SLOIFF and those in attendance last night surely felt his warmth and sincerity as he connected with everyone. He emphasized how much happiness he's found over the years bringing happiness to others and at one point looked straight at the audience and said, 'You know what? I'm no Dark Knight. I'm the White Knight." That says it all.

The evening started with a BANG! at the VIP reception at Luis Wine Bar in downtown SLO.

San Luis Obispo celebrity magician, Rich Ferguson, pulled some SWISH! and SWOOSH! for guests. Pictured from left to right: Los Angeles radio personality, Ralph Garman, Adam. West, and Rich Ferguson.

The majestic Fremont Theatre was the perfect locale for this incredible, once-in-a-lifetime event.

Pictured from left to right: KROQ's Ralph Garman, who presented the Spotlight Award and moderated the Q & A; Adam West; and the film's director, James Tooley.

ZZZZWAP!

20th Annual San Luis Obispo International Film Festival

The Fremont Theatre

It's no secret that I'm a huge fan of the San Luis Obispo International Film Festival (SLOIFF). I first attended this cinematic celebration in 2007 and that was that. The next year I put my volunteer efforts to good use and didn't look back for the next six years. I morphed into the role of wine coordinator, and eventually served on the board of directors. 

Once again the SLOIFF is gearing up to bring film, wine and fun to San Luis Obispo County from March 5 - 9. Since I personally feel this festival is the most outstanding event to take place in SLO County during the year, I wouldn't miss the 20th annual celebration for anything. Although I might be biased, one thing's for certain: Movies matter!

When's the last time you laughed, cried, screamed, cringed in disgust, learned something enlightening, felt compelled to help an egregious injustice, or felt the hairs on the back of your neck stand up...just from watching a movie? That's the human connection at play. Watching stories unfold on the big screen is more than just a pastime. 

Over the years at the SLOIFF, I've watched countless documentaries, independent films, classic movies and short films that have left a lasting impression. By viewing films I normally wouldn't have the opportunity to see or might never hear of otherwise, my mind has broadened, my heart has expanded, and I've developed a new appreciation for filmmaking.

Adam West

At the San Luis Obispo International Film Festival, audiences have the rare opportunity to attend movies with filmmakers in attendance. At screenings in various theaters and venues around the county, attendees can ask questions and hear stories directly from the filmmakers about how their movies transpired. And at the special events, we all have the occasion to hobnob with celebrities. 

I'm no name dropper, but here are a few highlights. Batman will be attending Opening Night at the Fremont Theatre in Downtown SLO. Actually, the actor Adam West, best known for his lead role in the 1960s Batman TV series and the1966 Batman feature film, is this year's Spotlight Award recipient. The new documentary, "Starring Adam West" by Director James Tooley, will play on the big screen followed by a Q & A.

Jeff Bridges

On March 8, the Dude himself—Academy Award^®-winning actor Jeff Bridges—will receive the 2014 King Vidor Award.  Presented by actor James Cromwell, a former King Vidor Award recipient, Bridges and Cromwell will engage in an onstage conversation, followed by a screening of "The Big Lebowski." Guests can rub elbows with these fine actors at the SLO Masonic Lodge, where local restaurants and wineries will provide a taste of the SLO life at the after party. 

Whether you're planning a visit to San Luis Obispo County next week, or if you're a SLO resident in need of a staycation, check out the festival web site for the full film schedule and entire lineup of special events. Tickets are currently on sale and it will be money well spent.

Remember: Movies matter!

2013 King Vidor Award Recipient, Oscar-nominated Actor John Hawkes

2010 Surf Nite at the Fremont Theatre

2010 King Vidor Award Recipient, Academy Award^®-winning Actor Alan Arkin

Hobnobbing with Actors Robert Carradine and James Cromwell at the 2010 SLOIFF

Downtown San Luis Obispo: Luna Red

With spring temperatures reigning supremely over San Luis Obispo County this weekend, I couldn't resist eating Sunday brunch outside. There was no question of where I wanted to go: Luna Red. 

This global tapas bar serves guests inside their chic restaurant, as well as on their relaxed outdoor patio. Located on Chorro Street in Downtown San Luis Obispo, directly across from the historic Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, I couldn't wait to sample their brunch menu while dining al fresco. 

Although I'd visited Luna Red several times before and enjoyed some of their house-made charcuterie and other small-plate delicacies, this was my first time to indulge in their weekend brunch. Their innovative menu presented me with a difficult choice: With tempting dishes like pan fried chilaquiles, custard-soaked French toast, and arepa benedicts, what to choose?

I finally settled on the house-made chorizo benedicts. Venezuelan corn cakes (arepas) and spicy chorizo sausage patties provided the first two layers, while perfectly cooked poached eggs sat loftily on top. A creamy, delicious manchego-paprika hollandaise sauce completed this contemporary eggs benedict creation, while tasty herbed potatoes fared splendidly on the side and helped lop up the decadent sauce.

Lest I forget the organic Bloody Mary, this was the first time in my life to imbibe in this cocktail. As a result, I can't compare this spicy, tangy concoction to any others, but I must say I would certainly try one again.

The next time you're in San Luis Obispo City on a weekend when the sun is shining and the temperatures are splendid, I highly recommend stopping for an indulgent sojourn at Luna Red.

SLO County Events: Week of February 17

One thing's a given in San Luis Obispo: No matter the time of year, there's always something fun to do in various nooks and crannies of the county. This week is no exception! 

Click on the links below for more information, including ticket sales. As always, feel free to post your comments below to let readers know about other upcoming events.  

Cambria
February 22: At the Western Dance Jamboree, enjoy a day of western dance workshops and an evening dance.

Downtown San Luis Obispo
February 20: Free moonlight hours at the San Luis Obispo Children's Museum. On the third Thursday of each month, the museum offers gratis admission from 5 - 8 pm. This educational event coincides with Downtown SLO's famous Thursday Farmers Market.
February 21: Groove to the sounds of Jeff Bridges and The Abiders at The Fremont.

San Luis Obispo City 
February 22: The San Luis Obispo Symphony Ball & Auction promises an evening of adventure at the Embassy Suites Hotel. 
February 22:  Listen to the sounds of choral music from around the world at Cal Poly Choirs' Winter Concert: 'Songs of Travel' at the Christopher Cohan Center.

Paso Robles
February 21 & 22: Wine Country Theatre presents the romantic comedy, 'It Had to Be You,' at Via Vega Winery. Check their website for additional dates in February and March. 
February 22 & 23: The 46 West Wine Safari is selling tasting passes benefiting Zoo to You. Taste wine at participating 46 West Wineries with visiting exotic animals.

San Simeon
February 22: As part of the Coastal Discovery Month & Stewardship Ocean Film Festival, enjoy a free screening of "The Living Sea" at Hearst Castle's Iworks large-format theater.
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Pismo Beach: always a great place for a walk, anytime of the year.

SLO County Events: Week of February 10

The Sochi 2014 Olympic Games are in full swing. In case you need a break from your television and all the action, here are a few events taking place in San Luis Obispo County over the next week. The upcoming three-day weekend, which coincides with Valentine's Day, is the perfect time to take advantage of some of this week's occasions.

Just click on the links below for more information about reservations and costs. As always, feel free to post in the comments section below if you'd like to share an upcoming SLO event that I've neglected.
 
Arroyo Grande: Laetitia Vineyard & Winery
On the evening on February 13, indulge in chocolate and wines at Laetitia, featuring Mama Ganache Chocolates.

Atascadero: America's Funniest Valentine 
On February 15, get ready to laugh. 

Avila Beach: Garden's of Avila St. Valentine's Day Celebration
Sycamore Mineral Springs Spa & Resort is offering two different tasting menus in their esteemed restaurant. Mmmm. 

Cambria: Robin's Restaurant "Love Can't Wait" Prix Fixe Dinner
Check out their pre-Valentine's menu offered on February 13 and prepare to swoon.
  
Downtown San Luis Obispo: The Palm Theatre 
The Oscars are only a few weeks away and the Palm Theatre is currently screening Oscar Nominated Shorts through February 13. I love this independent theater, which not only happens to be the United State's first solar powered movie venue, but also has what I believe to be the nation's most affordable concession stand. You can even purchase hot herbal tea to wash your snacks down.

Downtown San Luis Obispo: Luna Red 
Reserve your spot now for a seductive four course prix fixe menu for two on Valentine's Day. 

Paso Robles: LXV Wine's Pre-Valentine's Dinner 
For those in the mood, LXV Wine presents their first Reverse Pre-Valentine Dinner at Il Cortile on February 12. 

San Luis Obispo: The Temptations
On February 14, this acclaimed musical act will perform at the Christopher Cohan Center at Cal Poly. 

San Luis Obispo: Some Enchanted Evening
Opening February 14 at the San Luis Obispo Little Theatre, the songs of Rodgers & Hammerstein come alive.

Enjoy your week!

Pismo Beach, earlier this morning.

Upcoming San Luis Obispo County Events

The new year is in full swing and San Luis Obispo County is gearing up for some fabulous events! Here's a sneak peek at some of the upcoming regional attractions during the first few weeks of February. Click on the links below for more details, and if you feel I've neglected an amazing event that you'd like to share, please feel free to leave a comment below.

Morro Bay: 2014 Tall Ships Arrive February 7 - 11

The tall-ship Lady Washington, a replica of one of the first U.S.-flagged ships to visit the west coast of North America, will find a temporary home in Morro Bay. Check their schedule for walk-on tours and ticket sales for adventure and battle sails. 

Paso Robles: Valentine's Day at Vina Robles

Tickets are now on sale for an elegant candlelight dinner prepared by Thomas Hill Organics, paired with the wines of Vina Robles, and serenaded by the pianist, Richard Moratin.

Paso Robles: Chocolate Fountain Valentine's Weekend at Robert Hall Winery

From Friday, February 14, to Sunday, February 16, enjoy Robert Hall Winery's complimentary chocolate fountain. 

Paso Robles: Singles Celebration Day Wine Tour by Breakaway Tours

Tickets are on sale now for February 15 and 16. Visit four wineries by limo, enjoy a picnic lunch, Valentine's Day candy...as well as a surprise at the last winery!

Pismo Beach: Monarch Butterfly Grove

Through February, you can catch a glimpse of the several thousand monarch butterflies that dwell in clusters in the Pismo Beach Monarch Butterfly Grove.

 

Downtown San Luis Obispo: Art After Dark

On the evening of February 7, visit new art exhibits at various locations around downtown SLO. This is a free event!

San Luis Obispo: Claiborne & Churchill Vintners' Wine Library Tasting 

Claiborne & Churchill is one of my absolute favorite wineries in SLO County. Their straw bale winery is located at the edge of the Edna Valley wine region; tickets are now on sale for their annual library tasting event, coming up on Saturday, February 15. 
 

HAVE FUN!