Get Yourself to a State Fair

Beyond music, the event offers regional foods, square dancing and even an Abe Lincoln impersonator.

California State Fair, Aug. 20-Sept. 1, Sacramento, Calif.:

How many state fairs boast about their wine garden? Then again, how many states have the wine industry that California does?

To be sure, the fair offers a lot more than vino: On tap for 2008 is everything from thoroughbred racing to a concert series than runs from A (Air Supply) to Y ("Weird Al" Yankovic), plus the usual livestock and agricultural exhibits and midway fun. But the wine garden has a special appeal since it showcases award-winning California wines from the fair's annual wine competition, which draws entries from 400 vintners throughout the state.

Oh, and if you want to take home a souvenir from the fair, cases of wine are for sale.