News, Tips & Bargains : California Corner / Festivals, Feasts & Fairs

COTATI--Toe-tappin’, finger-snappin’ tunes abound at the 14th annual Cotati Jazz Festival, June 18-19. Pianist Ed Kelly and his Trio and Swing Fever are among the groups performing 1-6 p.m. both days in six downtown venues, which include the Tradewinds and the Cotati Yacht Club. $12 for one day; $20 for both. Tickets for sale in La Plaza Park. (707) 792-4600.

VISTA--Tools and trades of yesteryear make a comeback at the Threshing Bee and Antique Engine Show, June 18-19 and 25-26. Demonstrations of early American crafts, farming and blacksmithing are featured 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. daily, plus food and entertainment. An antique tractor parade is at 1 p.m. daily. At the Antique Gas and Steam Engine Museum, 2040 N. Santa Fe Avenue. $5, general; free for kids under 15. (800) 5-TRACTOR.

IRVINE--A feast of food and music awaits at the Taste of Orange County ‘94, June 24-26 at the Irvine Spectrum, Irvine Center Drive and Alton Parkway. The outdoor festival features an eclectic schedule of bands, international foods, “Kids’ Street” and soccer contests and demonstrations. 5 p.m.-midnight Friday; noon-midnight Saturday; noon-10 p.m. Sunday. $6, general; $3, kids 3-12; free for kids 2 and under. (714) 753-3577.

SACRAMENTO--Crafts, foods and costumed performers fill Fair Oaks Park for the Renaissance Faire, June 25-26. 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday. $5; general; $3, seniors; $1, kids 6-12; free for kids under 6. (916) 966-1036.

FERNDALE--Viking Days: Scandinavian Mid-Summer Festival celebrates Nordic culture, June 25-26. Saturday’s festivities are 10 a.m.-4 p.m. along Main Street, followed by a barbecue. An aebleskiver (Danish pancake) breakfast is served in the Danish Lodge. Sunday’s activities are 11 a.m.-5 p.m. at the Ferndale Fairgrounds. (707) 786-9853.