Calendar: Events for December 2007 and January 2008

CALIFORNIA

Winter Passport Program and Wine & Crab Taste-Off

On passport day, Jan. 19, more than 40 wineries in the Santa Cruz Mountains -- including some smaller establishments normally closed to visitors -- open their doors for tours and tastes. The next day, the Wine & Crab Taste-Off pits four local restaurants, which prepare two crab selections and pair them with wine for visitors, who serve as judges.

When, where: Jan. 19 at various locations in the Santa Cruz Mountains of Central California; Jan 20 at restaurants in Aptos and Soquel.

Cost: $30 per person for passport day; $47.50 per person for two restaurant visits during the taste-off, $16.25 for each additional restaurant.

Info: (831) 685-8463, www.scmwa.com.

CANADA

400th Anniversary

Starting New Year’s Eve, Quebec City kicks off nearly a year of activities to mark its 400th anniversary. Among the more than 130 events will be parades, tours, musical performances, theater exhibitions and sports competitions. The celebration begins on Dec. 31 at the Place d’Youville, a popular square at St. Jean and D’Youville streets, with fireworks, live music and other entertainment that touches on the city’s four centuries of history.

When, where: From Dec. 31 through October at various locations.

Cost: Varies.

Info: (866) 585-2008, www.myquebec2008.com.

COLORADO

Ouray Ice Festival

Visitors can learn the sport of ice climbing at a host of clinics for athletes of different skill levels. Clinics include “Footwork Technique,” “Avalanche 101” and “Yoga for Climbers.” Expert climbers will offer presentations, and top competitors will vie for the title of overall winner. Also: kids’ events, a snowshoe race, pull-up contest, an auction of gear and more.

When, where: Jan. 9 to 13 at Ouray Ice Park, off U.S. 550 in Ouray.

Cost: Varies.

Info: (970) 325-4288, www.ourayicefestival.com.

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