Escapes: Family fun at Sonoma farms

Blossoms, Bees & Barnyard Babies farm-hopping tour

All are invited to get a behind-the-scenes look at farm life during Blossoms, Bees & Barnyard Babies weekend. Nearly 50 farms and other small agricultural businesses will open their doors – or gates – from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 2-3 for tours and demonstrations.

Yes, there will be blossoms and bees, but also bunnies, chickens, cows, goats, horses, water buffalo and other animals to meet. Taste cheese, eggs, meat, wine, olive oil, honey and a variety of produce straight from the source. Prepare to take some goodies home from farm stands and country stores, and at some stops, participate in activities such as hayrides, crafts and classes.

The event is free to attend, but advanced registration is required for proper map- and itinerary-planning. For more information, visit www.farmtrails.org.

Cinco de Mayo

What: Mexican and Latino foods, music, dance and art will be the focus of the 11th annual event, held in the heart of the Mission District. This family-friendly celebration is both alcohol- and smoke-free.

When: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. May 2

Where: Valencia Street between 21st and 24th streets, San Francisco

Cost: Free

Information: www.sfcincodemayo.com

Castles and Kites

What: Beginners are welcome to fly kites and build sandcastles at Bodega Bay’s annual festival. Participate or just relax and watch as experts fly colorful kites and build elaborate sand sculptures.

When: 11 a.m.-4 p.m. May 2

Where: Doran Regional Park, 201 Doran Beach Road, Bodega Bay

Cost: Free, $7 parking

Information: parksstg.sonomacounty.ca.gov

Beer festival

What: Enjoy all the samples you can guzzle at the 19th annual Legendary Boonville Beer Festival – there’s zero limit with your general admission ticket. Buy some edible accompaniments from various food vendors and dance it all off to live music.

When: 1-5 p.m. May 2

Where: Mendocino County Fairgrounds, 14400 Highway 128, Boonville

Cost: $41.50 general, $6.50 designated driver

Information: avbv.com

Short films

What: The seventh annual Film Fest Petaluma specializes in new, international short films, both animated and live action. Films are screened in three chunks over the course of a full day – stay seated after the credits roll for filmmaker discussions after each show.

When: 2:30 p.m. May 2

Where: Mystic Theatre, 21 Petaluma Blvd. North, Petaluma

Cost: $25

Information: www.petalumafilmalliance.org

Travel talk

What: World traveler and writer Judith Anshin will share stories and tips about exploring Malta.

When: 7 p.m. May 5

Where: Arcade Library Community Room, 2443 Marconi Ave., Sacramento

Cost: Free

Information: (916) 457-1426; www.noreservationstravelclub.blogspot.com

Bee Staff

This story was originally published April 24, 2015 at 5:00 AM with the headline "Escapes: Family fun at Sonoma farms."