California Corner : Festivals, Feasts & Fairs

SAN DIEGO--The Maritime Museum presents “Movies Before the Mast.” A screen will be stretched in the rigging of the 1863 tall ship, the Star of India, for the showing of “Swiss Family Robinson,” 6:30 p.m. Sept. 16-18, and “The Bounty,” 6 p.m. Oct. 14-16. Clam chowder and cappuccino served. $10, general; $7, kids and museum members. North Harbor Drive at Ash Street. Call for reservations. (619) 234-9153.

BAKERSFIELD--The first California Countryside Festival, showcasing the diversity, arts and culture of the Central Valley, is scheduled Sept. 17-Oct. 30. The California Arts Council and Division of Tourism join forces with regional arts and tourism partners to present celebrations in eight counties. Among the events: the “Old Town Kern Railroads/ArtsFest,” Oct. 1 in Bakersfield; “American Music Festival--From Blues to Bluegrass,” Oct. 2, 8-9 in Fresno, and a “Festival of Footsteps,” Oct. 8 in Visalia. (916) 227-2550.

OJAI--Costumed jugglers, musicians and knights in shining armor gather on the shores of Lake Casitas for the third annual Ojai Renaissance Festival, Sept. 17-18 and 24-10 a.m.-dusk. $6, general; $5, students; $4, kids 12 and under and seniors; free for those 3 and under. Parking: $2. (805) 646-8126 or (805) 496-6036.

SAN FRANCISCO--Viva Mexico! celebrates Mexican Independence Day, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sept. 17-18 at Pier 39, Beach Street and the Embarcadero. Free. (415) 705-5500.

SAN JOSE--The unique spirit of the SoFA district rises to the occasion for the neighborhood’s third annual SoFA Street Fair, noon-9 p.m. Sept. 18. Exotic foods, alternative crafts and kids’ activities are among the offerings on South First Street, between San Carlos and Reed Streets. Free. (408) 295-2265, Ext. 483.

Call listed phone numbers for directions.