No, this is not a gay event, so shut your pie-holes. Well, it is a gay event, as far as ‘Gay as Christmas’  goes. Anyway, shrug that Scrooge expression off your mug and get in the holiday spirit, would ya? Seriously. It’s almost Thanksgiving and it’s time. And this only lasts an hour. So fill up your flask, bundle up, brave the rains and toast the lighting. Bonus: they have a pyrotechnic show too. Now, we’ve got ya.

What: Embarcadero Center Holiday Lighting Ceremony
Where: If you really need to ask I’m gonna belt ya. Justin Herman Plaza
When: 6p-7p
Cost: Free
Contact: (415) 772.0753

Friday-Sunday: 2009
HipHop DanceFest

Here we go, this is #11 in a row of this fest. Screw ‘So You Think You Can Dance’ – you can’t! These dudes and dudettes can bring it strong. Most of the weak ones have been cut out of the herd, you could say. You got some strong locals like SoulForce as well as a ton of hot international talent.

What: 2009 HipHop DanceFest
Where: Palace of Fine Arts (3301 Lyon St.)
When: Fri & Sat 8p; Sun 7p
Cost: $35
Contact: (415) 392-4400

Saturday: Snoop
Dogg in the House

Yeah baby. The mo-fo that is responsible for me tanking Gin & Juice at every wedding I attend (dunno why only at weddings) is right here in ‘Frisco. In our back yard (no, not in that back yard, perv) ! He didn’t even call to let me know. Well, drugs’ll do that to ya. Anyhoo, the Dogg rocks, and he’s a crack-up, The Warfield is a great venue, you’ll get a free contact high, you’ll…WTF else do you need?! Go! A bunch o’ guys I’ve never heard of are opening – DJ Quik, Nipsey Hussle (no, not Nipsey Russell. He took a dirt nap years ago) and Hustle Boys – so if you show up a little tardy that’s A-OK.

What: Snoop Dogg in the House
Where: The Warfield (982 Market St.)
When: 8p
Cost: $50-65
Contact: (800) 745-3000

Saturday-Sunday: Shop Thread

Shop ’til you puke while you support
SF’s local design scene. Mark your calendars for this weekend’s Thread sample
sale where you can buy direct from the city’s 100 top independent fashion designers
and artists at beau coup savings! Oiu Oiu! . The sale features limited-edition, exclusive, hard-to-find
clothing, jewelry, street wear, accessories, bags, vintage items, original art
and more. Plus, bevvie specials, and a variety of lounges to slake that insatiable thirst of yours. Bonus: Model Runway shows too! Models. Runways. Yipee! Or at least funny to witness.

What: Shop Thread
Where: Fort Mason Festival Pavilion (Buchanan & Marina Blvd)
When: 11a-6p
Cost: $10

We know, usually the only thing ‘green’ about your weekends is the color of your gills after a night or two of boozin’ it up. But change is good. Sometimes. In this case, at least for an hour or three. I mean, being green is the new black. Wait! We recently proselytized that afternoon drinking was the new black. Hmmm, a quandary. You choose. Anyhoo, scoot (don’t drive) on down here for an eco-conscious good time. Green is sexy. You may even get laid. And while you’re at it there’s some cool stuff and companies to check out, like 3Prong Power Plug In Hybrids, as well as some good veggie/organic snacks and non-veggie bevvies.

What: San Francisco Green Festival
Where: Concourse Exhibition Center (635 8th Street)

When: Fri-Sun 12p-6p
Cost: Free!

Saturday: Buraka Som Sistema Live @ Mezzanine

Who? What? Where? Well let me clue you in, fool. This is a hot, up and coming Portuguese band. And since we recently returned from Rio, we’re down. They have a groovin’ funky style that mixes some African-based riffs with more new age electronica. And how do they lay it down? A cool combo of euro pop dance hits and hip hop, bitch. Try it, you’ll like it.

What: Buraka Som Sistema Live
Where: Mezzanine (444 Jessie)
When: 9p
Cost: $16-20
Contact: (415) 625-8880

Sunday: Holiday Beerfest

This type of event just makes me adore the holiday season so much I almost weep. If this doesn’t get ya in the spirit, you’re emotionally void. OK, we shouldn’t over-hype this. But it is a) beer 2) at fort mason c) to ring in the holidays and catch a mini-buzz. I think that’s good enough. There’ll be about 125 holiday brews from about 100 breweries from the Bay Area and beyond, some munchies, Christmas carolers, a Dickensian town scape, and even a live Santa that you can lap-sit on and recite your xmas list! (OK, there’s beer and munchies. Prolly some tunes too but no other guarantees.)

What: Holiday Beerfest
Where: Fort Mason Herbst Pavilion(Buchanan St. & Marina Blvd)
When:1p-4p
Cost: $35

Sunday: Autumn Feast @ Toronado

Let them drink beer! Toronado is one of the best beer bars in all of SF. If you don’t agree you’re on crack. But this is weird. They are actually bringing in Melissa Claire of Melissa Claire’s Kitchen (I don’t know her either) to do a kinda fancy-shmancy seeming six course meal matched with a dozen or more beers. She’ll be serving up stuff like Salmon Three Ways (only 3? Slacker!), Spiced Sweet Potato Bisque, Boney Fingers Braised Boneless Beef RIbs (oohh, almost alliteration), and more. Give it a go, anything at Toronado is gonna be a hoot.

What: Autumn Feast at Toronado
Where: Toronado Bar (547 Haight St.)
When:11:30a-4p
Cost: $95
Contact: (415) 377-7007

Coming Up! Thursday November 19 Yoga, Wine, Chocolate & Cheese

Get
bent! In more ways than one, how the hell can you resist this? And no,
I already read your scheming little mind. You cannot skip the yoga
part, ya lazy bastard. This is a cool spot located above Local
restaurant, which we love. In addition to Owner Sarah and Yoga
coordinator Maya organizing an invigorating yoga session, they’ve
attracted a renowned sommelier
in developing a unique and exciting workshop. There’s live music to
help soothe you and help get you all flexible, then carefully selected
wines, artisan cheeses and chocolate from local purveyor Tcho.

Space for this event is even more limited than last week so act fast!

What: Yoga, Wine, Chocolate & Cheese
Where: Cocoon Urban Day Spa (330 1st St betw Folsom & Harrison)
When: 7p-9p
Cost: $95
Contact: (415) 777-0100

Friday: City In Pink – John Hughes Lives On!

Celebrate the legacy of John Hughes (pssst, he passed away last August), best known for films like Pretty In Pink. Young relationships, angst and all that jazz. This is gonna be a very fun event, with a movie screening, a 1/2 dozen DJs spinning some wicked '80's tunes and drink specials like the 'Ferris Bueller's Laid Off' for $5 a pop. Hey chicks – the first 25 of ya that come dressed like Claire Standish or Allison Reynolds get a free gift bag. 

What: City In Pink – John Hughes Lives On!
Where: 111 Minna (betw 2nd & New Montgomery)
When: 9p-2a
Cost: $5
Contact: (415) 558-8521

Saturday-Sunday: Fabulous Food Festival

This is a pretty cool scene. Free food samples! Woo Hoo. This is the second annual for these guys, and they pack it in with more than 150 or so exhibitors and sponsors. There's also live music, adult beverages, demos, lectures (boring!) and more. All this for only $10. Adult bevvies not included. Go stuff your pie holes.

What: Fabulous Food Festival
Where: Concourse Exhibition Center (635 8th Street)
When: 10a-5p
Cost: $10
Contact: (415) 388-7208

Saturday-Sunday: Snowbomb Ski and Snowboard
Festival

You feel it. Admit it. That insatiable urge. That's right. That urge to take all your snowboard gear outta hibernation and strap it all on in your house. Weirdo. Anyhoo, I'm getting there. All sorts of gear vendors here with the latest and greatest, all the top resorts will be here like Whistler, Vail, Jackson Hole, Squaw and some will have special deals. And of course, we would not recommend a venue that didn't serve wine and local brew! Oh yeah, with your admission get a free lift ticket, good at places you'll never go including Bear Valley, Dodge Ridge (where?), and Sierra Summit. Plus, local heroes Jonny Mosley and better yet Daron Rahlves!

What: Snowbomb Ski and Snowboard
Festival
Where: Fort Mason Festival Pavillion (Buchanan & Marina Blvd)
When: Sat 10a-8p; Sun 10a-6p
Cost: $20+
Contact: (415) 388-7208

Monday-Saturday: Burger Bonanza @ Zaré at Flytrap

Has Hoss lost his mind!? This guy whips up a killer burger (in a good way) and the place is cool. And from now until the Dow reaches 12,000 (or he decides to stop it, whichever comes first) you can get one of his signature 1/2 pound burgers and any well drink, draft beer or wine for the quite affordable price of $15. Note 1: After 8:30 pm. Note 2. We made up the Dow hitting 12,000 part.

What: $15 1/2 lb. Burger & Drink @ Zaré
Where: 606 Folsom Street (betw 2nd and Hawthorne Ln)
When: Mon-Sat 8:30p-close
Cost: $15

Coming Up! Thursday November 19 Yoga, Wine, Chocolate & Cheese

Get bent! In more ways than one, how the hell can you resist this? And no, I already read your scheming little mind. You cannot skip the yoga part, ya lazy bastard. This is a cool spot located above Local restaurant, which we love. In addition to Owner Sarah and Yoga coordinator Maya organizing an invigorating yoga session, they've attracted a renowned sommelier
in developing a unique and exciting workshop. There's live music to help soothe you and help get you all flexible, then carefully selected wines, artisan cheeses and chocolate from local purveyor Tcho.

Space for this event is limited so act fast for a change!

What: Yoga, Wine, Chocolate & Cheese
Where: Cocoon Urban Day Spa (330 1st St betw Folsom & Harrison)
When: 7p-9p
Cost: $95
Contact: (415) 777-0100

Friday – Saturday: Freaks, Shrieks & Beats! 4th Annual Bash

Get your freak on, Halloween bitches! And these guys aren't waiting until Halloween night to start the partay either. Hells no. Get your costumed butts to John Colins on Friday night as well as Saturday (just car camp in the nearby parking lot if you don't want to drive twice). Wait, don't drive, cab it, taxi it, bus it, hitchhike, whatever or bring a DD and tear it up! OK, enough of the PSA. Colins is a fun venue and the crowd should be cool. They of course have drink deals, costume contests and some fierce beats.

What: Freaks, Shrieks & Beats! 4th Annual Bash
When: Fri & Sat 5p-2a
Where: John Colins Lounge, 90 Natoma (@ 2nd)
Cost: No Cover

Friday: Post-Season Happy Hour

You didn't really think the Giants would still be playing ball, did ya? Please say no. Hope is one thing, delusion is quite another. Anyhoo, unless you live under a rock, ya know baseball season is still going on, and our beloved Yankees need all your love to beat the snot outta those low-life (and jealous) bastards in Philly. 

So really this isn't 'post season' just post season for the 28 (or however many) teams didn't make it to the series. So don't be a hater, get out and root your fave (or team you hate least) on to victory at Acme Chophouse. Why? Well, it's in the bottom of Pac Bell Park so the whole baseball vibe is strong, and they have $5 appetizers, $3 draft beers and other wine and cocktail specials. 

What: Post-Season Happy Hour
When: 4:30p-6:30p
Where: Acme Chophouse (@ Pac Bell Park)
Cost: No cover

Saturday: Ghoulish Gala at The Legion of Honor

Yes, another Halloween party. WTF else do you think is going on this weekend? I mean, besides the World Series and the Oregon Ducks- USC Trojans game. I mean, the bitch smack down the Ducks hopefully issue those silver-spoon sucking Trojans. I mean, isn't that a rubber?

Anyway, back to the Ghoulish Gala. Makes me shiver in fright just typing it. This is a pretty cool combo event: A wild, and semi-creepy exhibition at The Legion of Honor with all these mummies and dead folk, with a bunch of crazy costumed-out freaks drinking and getting a little culture while they're at it. There's drinking, history, dancing and noshing all in a very cool setting.

Rule: Wear a costume or get bounced at the door. 

What: Ghoulish Gala at The Legion of Honor
When: 8p
Where: The Legion of Honor
Cost: $65-85
Contact: (415) 750-3600

Sunday: Breakfast In Bed Halloween After-Party

OK, so you made it through Halloween in one piece, it's no time to get lazy and sleep. Keep the party going, kittens! But in this odd, 'roll up the sidewalks early and don't open them again until noon' city that we love, besides a house party where do you do it? No, not Gino & Carlos. Not this time around anyway.

Where then? Supperclub. This unique place is gonna be spinning some tunes that'll get, or keep, your blood flowing, as well as serving up bevvies and munchies from 5 AM. We think the people watching will be stellar. Oh yeah, and they have beds! Reserve now. BYOT (Bring your own plastic tarp).

What: Breakfast In Bed Halloween After-Party
When: 5a-10a (drinks start at 6a)
Where: Supperclub, 657 Harrison (betw 2nd and 3rd)
Cost: $10-250
Contact: (415) 348-0900

We have a virtual cornucopia of events for ya this weekend, and it'd make for a very eclectic weekend if you hit them all! At least pick 2.

Friday – Saturday 30th Annual Exotic Erotic Ball & Expo

Sure, I attended this wild event back in the day, when it was still held at the Concourse in SoMa. And yes, I dressed in a somewhat unusual costume (thankfully pre-digital cameras), got my ass kicked by some hater and my car stolen. But do I hold a grudge? Hells no! Why let a couple bad apples ruin the whole barrel, as they say.

You, dear reader, may have an absolute blast.

And something to note: the 30th Anniversary is considered the “pearl” anniversary,  so we reckon' there may be lots of necklaces being given.

What: 30th Annual Exotic Erotic Ball & Expo
Where: Cow Palace, Daly City
When: Expo: Fri 4p-12a, Sat 6p-12a; Ball: Saturday 8p-2a
Cost: $69 – $150 (VIP)
Contact: (415) 567-BALL

Friday: Big Guns Cabernet Tasting

Skip outta work early, mount your trusty steed, strap on your holster pardner, and prepare for a buckin', bronkin' Cabernet tasting. No, Ladera isn't going to be there, I just liked the image. Anyhoo, you're likely to get a buzz, some blood red teeth and, oh yeah, taste some pretty killer Cabs from the likes of Dalla Valle, Grace Family (yum!), Opus One (overpriced but a good Bordeaux style blend. Kinda 'barnyard' for us though), Revana Familly, Shafer Hillside (their Select rocks), Spottswoode and Vineyard 29.

What: Big Guns Cabernet Tasting
Where: 1321 Main St., St. Helena
When: Fri 5:30p-7:30p
Cost: $40

Saturday: Cindy Pawlcyn Cooking Demo @ CUESA

OK, we're NOT gonna talk about the butter churning and cotton spinning at this CUESA event (that happens at 10a, so if you are reading this please just sleep in). We ARE gonna talk about a free cooking demo by none other than Cindy Pawlcyn (love that she didn't go for that pedestrian 'Paulson' spelling. Bravo!), of well-known Mustards Grill, the hot Go Fish and quaint Cindy's Backstreet Kitchen up in Napa wine country. Oh yeah, and she was a Top Chef Masters contestant. That sickeningly nice (and talented) Rick Bayless won, although she put up a decent fight. The cooking demo happens at 11a. Go. It's free and rumor is there'll be samples.

What: Cindy Pawlcyn Cooking Demo @ CUESA
Where: Ferry Building
When: Sat 11a-12p
Cost: Free!
Contact: (415) 291-3276

Saturday: Bring Your Own Queer

We really don't know what this is all about. We do not know if you really have to attend with a BLGT (no, not a BLT) individual. We do not know if they have some type of test of queerness, or if they do the Don't Ask Don't Tell policy…All we know is it's in Golden Gate Park, it's gonna be nice weather, they have lots of bands with cool names like Rainbow Death Pony and Honey Sound System, it's free and most likely a hoot. Nobody can queer it up like SF!

What: Bring Your Own Queer
Where: Music Concourse Band shell, Golden gate Park
When: Sat 12p-5p
Cost: Free!

Friday : Slick Rick LIVE!

AKA Ricky Walters, ya gotta love this rapper. Or not. We do! Whatever, this bad mo-fo will rock ya but good. I mean, who couldn't rejoice in La Di Da Di with Doug E Fresh?! A classic for the ages. And this guy is a character. Seriously. I mean, look up 'checkered past' in Webster's and this crazy bastard's picture will pop up. Guaranteed! But he's never boring ya gotta give him that. Who cares if he shot a couple people, Russell Simmons (bailed him out) and Gov. David Patterson D-NY (pardoned him) got his back. 

What: Slick Rick Live!
Where: Atmosphere (447 Broadway near Montgomery)
When: 8p
Cost: $5+ (no kidding!)
Contact: (415) 788-4623

Friday: 3rd Annual WhiskeyFest 2009

200 whiskeys, fine grub and pretty people (or at least, pretty drunk people). What's missing in this picture? You, loser! This is your big chance to 'sample' some whiskey ya might never have a chance to otherwise. Ya might even learn a thing or two about the ins and outs of distillation. And if whiskey isn't your bag, man, they'll also be serving up beer, tequila and more. Plus snacks, AKA soakage.

What: 3rd Annual WhiskeyFest
Where: SF Marriott Hotel (55 Fourth St)
When: 6:30p-9:30p
Cost: $110-150

Saturday – Sunday: Treasure Island Music Fest

So if you are in SF and have East Bay Phobia like us, test yourself a little with a trip…1/2 way across the bay. It's not technically the EB, it's the T-I bitches! And our bud Elliot will treat you like an old family member once you arrive. Just look for the short adorable guy swilling Fernet. It goes both days so bring your tent and sleeping bags! Wait. Not sure if camping is permitted. Well, it was just an idea, take it or leave it. There's no parking allowed, so ferry it, taxi it, swim it or parachute in. The site below details some of your options. Some of the highlights? The Flaming Lips, Beirut, The Decemberists, and oodles more.

What: Treasure Island Music Fest
Where: Treasure Island
When: 12p-onward
Cost: $65-250

Sunday: Nike Women's SF Marathon

Well, if you're running this race, ya prolly don't need a reminder. And if you're just hearing about it here…ya need to get out more often. Plus, it's a little late to start training now. But for all you wannabe runners, or joggers who just don't have 26.2 miles in your legs. Or lungs. Or brain. Get out there and cheer these women on! And knowing San Francisco as we do, this 'Women's' Marathon could include a few gender-benders as well*. It's never dull in SF.

The route starts at Union Square and ends at The Great Highway and is a cool route this year, going through Aquatic Park, Ghirradelli Square then through the Presidio and Golden Gate Park ending at the lovely Pacific ocean. Meaning there's lotsa cool sights in addition to cheering on the ladies.

*OK, OK,of course any gender can run in this as well! And there's also a 1/2 marathon and a walk so even the most pathetic lazy slacker (you?) has no excuse (except for wanting to sleep in) to not take part.

What: Nike Women's Marathon
Where: Union Square
When: 7a
Cost: $100

Thursday: VIN 12 Presents Napa in Autumn

These are cool events, VIN 12 puts them on monthly and does a rockin' god job of it too. This month, there'll be about 50 or so Napa wines represented by about 20 or so wineries. Not enough for ya? Well there's food too. And there's artwork on display from Hang Art in downtown SF. And there's a trunk show. Whatever, let's get back to those 50+ wines from the likes of Barber Cellars, Eden Canyon, Flora Springs Charles Krug and more. Bonus: they attract a very attractive crowd. Go!

What: VIN 12 Presents Napa in Autumn
Where: 55 Second St. (The Solarium)
When: 5p-9:30p
Cost: $26.50
Contact: (415) 756-6542

Friday: Craig Ferguson Live

This'll be way better than Craig Ferguson that time he was a dead carcass. Guaran-f'ing-teed. At least in our opinions. This dude is the f'ing funniest late night guy goin'. He might just be the funniest guy overall. Him and…Damn I'm ashamed to admit it…I resisted as long as I could…Dane Cook. There. I said it. That's right. Wait! Add Eddie Izzard to that list too. Anyhoo, Ferguson is insane, silly and self-deprecating all rolled into one big Scot. He's into puppets lately so maybe he'll break out the dragon (I think it's a dragon?) too. Oh yeah, he just wrote a book called American on Purpose so he'll be plugging that a bit as well.

What: Craig Ferguson Live
Where: Palace of Fine Arts (3301 Lyon St)
When: 8p
Cost: $20 (only $20?!)
Contact: (415) 392-4400

Friday-Sunday: SF20 Modernism Show + Sale

This is a cool show to roam around. Tons of exhibits and art and overall cool stuff to browse and buy. There's dozens of exhibitors from all over the world descending on our fair city, showing off decorative and fine arts from all the various movements of the 20th century. Ya might even learn something! 

What: SF20 Modernism Show + Sale
Where: Fort Mason Festival Pavilion (Buchanan & Marina)
When: Fri-Sat 11a-7p, Sun 12p-5p
Cost: $15

Sunday: Now & Zen Fest

I never really understood the Zen part of this, and I'm a Zen Master. Hey, there's nothing wrong with trying to hook into some zen-ness, and they have a decent, though not rock-star line up, for this years concert. I'll stop the run-on sentence there. The line-up features local boys Train (does 'Drops of Jupiter' ring a bell? ), Dashboard Confessional ('Stolen', 'Don't Wait'), Howie Day (who? 'Be There') and Colbie Caillat (I abhor her. Don't know why. Well, yes I do but I'm not going to get into it here.) Anyhoo, live, outside shows are always a hoot. Bring some friends, down some bevvies, ignore the tunes ya don't like and perk up for the ones ya do and do some people watching.

What: Now & Zen Fest
Where: Sharon Meadow, Golden Gate Park
When: 12p-5p
Cost: Free

Sunday: 26th Annual Folsom Street Fair

Oh boy. Here we go again. We saved the best for last. The Folsom Street Fair is hands-down (I resisted the urge to insert a different body part there) the best street fair in SF. Maybe the world! Y'know the best thing about this freak-fest? All the Prince Albert's? Nah. Ball gags? Come on! A giant hairy dude holding a midget upside down to give him a BJ? Tame. It's the looks of horror from the random tourists who thought 'Hey a street fair, sounds like a fun way to spend the afternoon in SF with the kids!' Priceless.

What: Folsom Street Fair
Where: Hmmm. Take a guess. (betw 7th @ 12th)
When: 11a-6p
Cost: $7 voluntary donation. It actually goes to some good charites.

Friday – Sunday Sausalito Film Festival

Admit it, we can all use some more culture. And isn't it cool party conversation to drop that you just saw a screening of a hot new short or documentary? Well, here's your chance, so head on over to sunny…OK beautiful at least…Cavallo Point at the foot of the GG Bridge this weekend for some. Culture, that is. Hit a 'Special Secret Screening Party' (some tickets still remain) that so secret even we at VdV don't have full details!

What: Sausalito Film Festival
Where: Cavallo Point, 601 Murray Circle Fort Baker
When: Friday – Sunday
Cost: $12 per film at the door; special events cost more
Contact: (415) 887-9506

Saturday SF Street Food Festival

This is the 'other' street fair that occurs on Folsom Street. Meaning, no (or at least fewer) Prince Alberts than the one coming up in September. This Street Fest is all about good street food, and there's also a beer & cocktail garden, as well as music and street art to be had as well. And the kicker – proceeds benefit La Cocina, which supports 'food entrepreneurs' mainly women from culturally diverse and immigrant communities. So go make a pig out of yourself and get a warm and fuzzy for supporting a good cause. It's a win-win.God I hate myself for using that phrase…

What: SF Street Food Festival
Where: La Cocina (Folsom betw. 25th & 26th)
When: Saturday, 11a-7p
Cost: Free admission; $20-150 depending on your hunger
Contact: (415) 824.2729 x 303

Sunday – Perry's 40th Anniversary Block Party

My how time flies. Perry, ya don't look a day over 60. So help celebrate the success of a very cool guy and an SF Institution. Head to the original Perry's location on Union Street for all the festivities – celebrity bartenders, live music, good food and drink, and it being Union Street at least 1/2 a chance for a random hookup. If that's what you're into, that is. So dodge the d-bags and go!

What: Perry's 40th Anniversary Block Party
Where: Perry's on Union, 1944 Union St @ Buchannan
When: Sunday, 11a-5p
Cost: Free admission (no that doesn't mean the drinks are free, fool)

Sunday – Family Winemakers 2009 Tasting

Talk about WeekendBuzz. Roam, try not to stumble, around Fort Mason and quaff…I mean sample…wines from about 1,000,000 wineries. OK, maybe not that many, but more than enough. Seriously 75+, and some quality ones you've prolly heard of and lots of boutique producers you'll have a chance to try out. Do not miss: Dutton Goldfield Winery's Zinfandel. Last tip: Swirl. Sniff. Sip. Do not spit. Repeat.

What: Family Winemakers 2009 Tasting
Where: Festival Pavillon @ Fort Mason
When: Sunday, 3p-6p
Cost: $50
Contact: (877) 772-5425

All of us at VdV hope you have an awesome weekend and hit at least one of these cool events. As always if you know of any hot happenings comin' up
let us know!

Friday & Saturday: 10 for $10 after 10 PM sushi at Yoshi's

Are you desperately seeking Sushi? Have the late night munchies? Well, it's Yoshi's to your rescue.  Yoshi's San Francisco and Yoshi's Oakland have just launched their "10 for 10" special. Every Friday and Saturday night starting at 10p, you can order 10 pieces of Executive Chef Shotaro 'Sho' Kamio's sushi for only $10. That's a deal, people!

What: 10 for $10 Sushi
Where: Yoshi's San Francisco
When: Friday & Saturday 10p-closing  (every weekend until they decide not to)

 Friday: $65 Tasting menu at Masa's  

OK, they can't all be '10 for $10' deals, people. I apologize. This is more like '3 for $65'. Maybe I should have led with this piece. Anyhoo, I always like to take advantage of some reduced price deals at some of the city's more expensive dining spots. So here's your chance to eat at Masa's and not break the bank. You can select 2 savories and 1 sweet from the 5 course menu for $65.

If you want to add vino it'll tag on another $39 dollas. I wish they would have made it $34 so the whole shebang comes in under a hundy but oh well. Masataka (exec chef) likes his fish, so prepare for a seafood-oriented menu.

What: Masa's Tasting Menu
Where: Masa's Restaurant, 648 Bush Street
When: Friday 5:30p-9:30p (prime time)

Friday – Sunday: 31st Annual Gilroy Garlic Festival

Let that 'ol schnoz of yours lead the way this fest, starting Friday and going strong through the weekend. Hit Gourmet Alley for all sorts of munchies, including Garlic bread (15,285 servings last year, the winner!), Garlic Fries (10,836), Garlic Italian Sausage Sandos (5,315) and more. Some, remarkably free of garlic. There's more than 60 food vendors here so lots of good grazing. There's also over 100 arts and crafts vendors: so between stuffing your face and getting high on garlic stench you can buy some stuff too! And Top Chef runner-up Fabio Vivani will host the Garlic Showdown. Yee haw!

Cost: $12. A pocket full of Binaca Blast? Priceless. 

What: Gilroy Garlic Festival
Where: Christmas Hill Park, 7050 Miller Avenue, Gilroy (just let your nose lead the way)
When: Friday – Sunday basically all day
Cost: $12

Friday & Saturday: Lebowski Fest

That's right, the Lebowski Fest is back. Part of the 2009 Speed of Sound tour, you'll have
the chance to celebrate the Coen Brothers' classic, The Big Lebowski,
with white Russians, a massive movie screening, trivia contests,
special musical guest Har Mar Superstar and more.

So crank it up a notch
and come dressed as your favorite Lebowski character. Go on! Now in it's 8th year, Lebowski Fest is a celebration of all things
related to 'The Big Lebowski,' the 1998 Coen Brothers film starring
Jeff Bridges, Julianne Moore, John Goodman and Steve Buscemi. Every
stop on the Lebowski fest features unlimited bowling, costume &
trivia contests, white Russians & Oat Sodas, special guests and
performers; but most of all, a massive movie screening.

What: Lebowski Fest Bowling & Movie Parties
Friday Bowling Party
Where: Classic Bowl  900 King Plz, Daly City
When: 8p
Cost: $32

Saturday Movie Party
Where: Fox Theater, 1807 Telegraph, Oakland
When: 7:30p
Cost: $22.50

 Saturday: Cosentino Winery Block Party

First off – this is not at the well-known Yountville location on Highway 29, it's at their recently opened Lodi area locale. Whew, OK now that we have that part settled. Hate to send you all the way up to the hinter lands of Napa on a bum steer.

So what's going on in Lodi – some great vino. They have a solid Zinfandel, Cabernet and a couple blends – the Poet (red meritage) and the Novelist (white), and others. We actually reviewed The Zin check it out here.

So they promise ot serve up some kick-ass BBQ, Live Music, and fun for you and the entire family. But please don't bring your kids…cute as they are it can be a real buzz kill…

$15 Event Fee includes BBQ, Wine Tasting and GoVino glass! You can never have enough of those winery glasses in your cupboard.

What: Cosentino WInery Block Party
Where: 3750 E. Woodbridge Rd., Acampo
When: Sunday 12-4:30p
Cost: $15 ($10 for club members)
(209) 333-8014

Sunday: San Francisco Marathon

Either run it, watch it, or get the hell outta the way! And watch out for street closings. Join 20,000 crazy runners and thousands more wannabes on Sunday. This crappy weather is prolly great for the runners, not so great for spectating so grab your parka. The scamper starts at Embarcadero & Mission, down the Embarcadero and across the GG Bridge, back across that freezing-ass bridge and thru GG Park and then back thru town to…almost exactly where they started…WHAT'S THE POINT!? At least in the NY Marathon you feel like you got somewhere! Anyway, good luck if you're running it.

What: SF Marathon
Where: Starts and ends @ Embarcadero & Mission
When: 5:30a-1p

Sunday: Wine & Cheese Tasting at Bar Bambino

The Bambino is goin' Italian on Sunday, with a pairing of 4 Tocai – Friulano wines (3 whites and 1 Rosso) along some delish Robiola cheeses, including a light and delicate Piemontese Roccaverano, to the sweet and pungent Lombaridan Rustica.

Hey many people don't know all that much about the Tocai wines and I'm not gonna teach ya here, so this is your chance to be smarter than most of your wino friends and enjoy some tastiness.

What: Wine & Cheese tasting
Where: Bar Bambino
When: Sunday 3p-5p
Cost: $45
Reserve: (415) 701-8466 or email to events@barbambino.com

Sunday: Summer Winetasting Featuring Napa Wines @ The Cannery

This event continues Sunday near The Cannery. Come taste Napa Valley wines and meet winemakers from boutique
California wineries at San Francisco's Sunday Summer Wine Tasting
series in Del Monte Square next to The Cannery. You'll learn about the
Napa Valley wine growing regions, meet winemakers and, most importantly,  taste through
over a dozen wines from Napa Valley in a casual outdoor setting in
San Francisco. I hear they do a pretty decent pour, too.

What: Napa Wine Tasting
Where: Del Monte Square (next to The cannery)
When: Sunday, 1p-4:30p
Cost: $15 advance/$20 at the door
Reserve: 415-929-WINE (9463), or buy online

OK, that should be a good start to the weekend, so get out there and enjoy! 

Every night! Michael Mina's Cheap Shot @ RN74

Throw back $1 shots of every bartender's fave, Fernet Branca, and chase 'em with $3 Kronenburg's you cheap bastard. Hell, take a date. Starts at 10p every night! Yee Haw. Or if you want, you can pay through the 'ol shnozola for a glass of vino or a drink. Your choice. It's all good.

Note: This deal isn't posted on their website but don't freak out, it's for real.

RN74
301 Mission St (in the Millennium Tower)
(415) 543-7474 (cool score on the phone number, Mina)

Friday: Bugs on Broadway – Davies Symphony Hall

I know, it may appear childish and immature to highlight a cartoon character, but…wait. Do you know where you are, sir? This is VinDivine, of course we highlight silly stuff.  'Cuz ya like it! They shine some classics on a giant screen with the San Francisco Symphony playing the original Carl Stalling cartoon scores live. We went a couple years ago and had a hoot.

What: Bugs on Broadway
Where: Davies Symphony Hall
When: Friday July 18, 8p

Saturday & Sunday: Renegade Craft Fair - Fort Mason

Wait. There's something free to do this weekend? Sure is, pilgrim. Scoot on over to Fort Mason and check this cool, handmade craft and urban art fair. There's gonna be about 200 artists (ok, maybe 'artist' is a stretch to describe some of them…) showing off everything from clothing, concert posters, jewelry, you name it. It's like an Oregon Saturday Market on steroids…without the shopping cart full of puppies for sale.

What: Renegade Craft Fair
Where: Fort Mason Center Festival Pavilion
When: Saturday & Sunday 11a-7p

Sunday: AIDS Walk in Golden Gate Park

How's this for a stellar Sunday to-do: Grab some pals, take a nice walk through gorgeous GG Park, and raise some $$$ for AIDS all at the same time. If that doesn't make for a great Sunday and a nice warm feeling of good-doing, what does? So hit up friends, family and co-workers for some dough, lace up those Keds and Do It.

What: AIDS Walk
Where: Golden Gate Park – Sharon Meadow
When: Sunday, sign-in at 9a, walk begins at 10:30a, post-walk concert 12:30p

Sunday: Roam The Mission Car-Free

OK, for all you who donated to the AIDS walk (see above, people), but couldn't sign-up for 6.2 mile walk because of that flare-up of the gout or bum knee, take to the streets in The Mission instead. This is the first of 6 'Sunday Streets' events this year, up from just 2 last year where the streets are closed off to cars. There are tours, bike rentals, music, dancing and as always some of the most colorful and f'd up people watching as anywhere in SF. But, where will the taco trucks park?

What: Sunday Streets in The Mission
Where: All over, but Garfield park is the center (26th & Harrison)
When: Sunday 10a-2p

So get out there this weekend and have a blast!