Calendar

SAN FRANCISCO

Edwardian World’s Faire and Ball

When, where: Jan. 22 and 23, Regency Ballroom

Highlights: The faire, on Jan. 22, is a dramatic celebration of the turn-of-the-century era with performances, gardens, a bazaar and exhibition halls about Edwardian arts and technology. The 10th annual ball, which is on Jan. 23, features elaborate costumes, dancing, music, circus arts, burlesque and ballroom-dancing classes.

Cost: Tickets to the faire start at $26; tickets to the ball start at $36.

Info:www.edwardianball.com

ST. GEORGE, UTAH

Winter Bird Festival

When, where: Jan. 28-31, various venues

Highlights: This annual event features expert-led, avian-themed field trips, workshops, lectures, kids’ activities and a photo contest.

Cost: Free, except for the Bird Festival Banquet, which is $20.

Info:www.sgcity.org/birdfestival

SANTA BARBARA

Santa Barbara International Film Festival

When, where: Feb. 4-14, State Street

Highlights: The festival, in its 25th year, screens more than 200 films from around the world, draws Oscar contenders and hosts parties, panels and tribute events. Among those honored will be James Cameron, Sandra Bullock, Julianne Moore, Peter Sarsgaard and Colin Firth.

Cost: Varies by event: $60 for the opening-night film and gala; $20 for the closing-night film; $125 for a 10-film “MiniPak.” See website for more prices on passes and packages.

Info:www.sbiff.org

SAN DIEGO

Mardi Gras

When, where: Feb. 16, Gaslamp Quarter and Hillcrest

Highlights: Two of San Diego’s most attractive neighborhoods host Fat Tuesday block parties; the Gaslamp plans to have two parades, street performers, seven stages of music and drink specials at bars. Hillcrest will also provide live entertainment, plus lots of food, beer and beads.

Cost: $15 in advance for the Gaslamp event (at-the-door prices weren’t set at press time); the Hillcrest event costs $15 in advance, $20 at the door.

Info: Gaslamp: (619) 233-5227, www.gaslamp.org; Hillcrest (619) 299-3330, www.hillcrestmardigras.org

RICHMOND, BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA

The O Zone

When, where: Feb. 12-28, downtown Richmond

Highlights: Claiming to be the biggest official party of this year’s Olympic Games, the O Zone will offer performances by up-and-coming bands, the Holland Heineken beer garden capable of entertaining 4,000 people, virtual and interactive sports experiences, a 140-foot high-def screen on which to watch the ceremonies and competitions, ice skating, the World Ice Art Exhibition, appearances by Olympic athletes, food fairs, fireworks and cultural events.

Cost: Free.

Info: (877) 247-0777, www.richmondozone.ca

-- Avital Binshtock

[email protected]