September 3, 2008 > Harvest Festival Harvest Festival By Brittney Hansen As fall approaches with brisk days and cool nights, pumpkins and gourds dot the landscape as a reminder that winter is on its way. In honor of autumn, the annual Harvest Festival will be held at Alameda County Fairgrounds in Pleasanton Friday, September 12 through Sunday, September 14. Over three hundred artisans will display thousands of organic, hand-crafted, locally made and unique items, both new and used. "We have many different types of products, from clothing and food items to jewelry and home decor" said Harvest Festival representative Liz Stigge. "You can get things here that you can't find at a mall." From lotions and body essentials to one-of-a-kind woodworks, ceramics and art paraphernalia, shoppers can find what they need for themselves or as presents during the coming holiday season. All items are made in the United States, and proceeds support local vendors. In addition to a plethora of edible items, clothing and jewelry, and household collectibles, shoppers will be able to enjoy music and entertainment during the long weekend. "Come Back Buddy," a trio of musical professionals will be performing a variety of songs by Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, Buddy Holly, Chuck Berry, and other artists from the early rock and roll period. This Americana band has been featured on "Good Morning Arizona" numerous times, and will be playing on both Friday and Saturday along with Tom Rigney and Flambeau, voted Best Cajun/Zydeco Band of 2004 by the West Coast Blues Hall of Fame. Another crowd favorite is "strolling entertainment." Characters in various costumes greet and entertain shoppers, and among them will be WC Willy, an Elvis Presley impersonator who wows the crowd by his juggling skills...while on stilts! The School of Imagination will be hosting a Kid's Zone at the Harvest Festival, where children can have a great time with hands-on activities such as obstacle courses, a bubble zone, and arts and crafts. Parents who wish to spend a little quiet time shopping together may do so, knowing that their child is having fun and in good hands. To learn more about the School of Imagination, visit their website at www.schoolofimagination.org. For more information about the Harvest Festival, call (415) 447-3205, or visit www.harvestfestival.com. Harvest Festival Friday, September 12 - Sunday, September 14 10 a.m. - 6 p. m. (Sunday close at 5 p.m.) Alameda County Fairgrounds 4501 Pleasanton Ave., Pleasanton (415) 447-3205 Adult: $9; Senior (62+): $7; Youth (13-17): $4; (12 and under are free) Tickets - one per person - are good for all three days