CHILD’S PLAY

GROVER BEACH, first Saturday: The Grover Beach Community Library, 230 North 9th St., offers a reading program in Spanish for preschool children in the Kids’ Korner, 10:30 to 11 a.m., featuring treats and a special project. Info: 481-4131.

GROVER BEACH, Saturdays: The Grover Beach Community Library, 230 North 9th St., offers a reading program for preschool children in the Kids’ Korner, 10:30 to 11 a.m., featuring treats and a special project Info: 481-4131.

SANTA BARBARA, Saturdays: Art From Scrap Gallery, 302 E. Cota St., presents waste reduction-minded crafts projects for kids. Workshops begin at 10 a.m. Cost is $6. Info: 884-0459, Ext. 15, or www.artfromscrap.org.

SANTA MARIA, to Aug. 10: Good grief, Charlie Brown! It’s another Pismo Beach Youth Theater summer camp, for ages 5 to 12, all about the musical “Snoopy!” Ages 5 to 9 meet 9 to 10:30 a.m., and ages 9 to 12 meet 9 a.m. to noon, on Tuesdays and Thursdays at Temple Beth El, 1501 E. Alvin St. A production of the musical will be performed at the Pismo Beach Veteran’s Center the weekend of Aug. 8. Cost: $125. Info: 934-0477 or pismobeachyouththeater.com. 6/30 WEB

DANCE

SAN LUIS OBISPO, Aug. 9: The Central Coast Country Dance Society will host it’s Contra Dance from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. at Odd Fellows Hall, 520 Dana St. Cost: $9. Info: www.cccds.org.

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SANTA MARIA, first Sunday: Dance the afternoon away to music by the Leo Juarez Combo from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. at the Elwin Mussell Senior Center, 510 E. Park Ave. All ages welcome. Cost: $5, includes refreshments. Info: Info: Ardeth Cox at 925-3775.

ONSTAGE

ARROYO GRANDE, Aug. 15, 16: “What’d I Say,” a musical tribute to Ray Charles, will be held at the Clark Center, 487 Fair Oaks Ave. at 8 p.m. There be 2 p.m. matinees Aug, 16 and 23. Cost: $25 to $35. Info or tickets: 489-9444.

OCEANO, to Sept. 21: Summer brings the Melodrama’s rotating repertory of classic melodrama to The Great American Melodrama, 1863 Pacific Blvd. (Highway 1), with “Showdown at Slick Rock Ranch” and “A Witless Rogue.” Show times are at 7 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays, 8 p.m. Fridays, 4:30 and 8:30 p.m. Saturdays and 6 p.m. Sundays. Stay for the comic Vaudeville Revue and try the in-house pub grub and beverages. Tickets: $16 and $19, seniors, students and military $14 and $17, children 12 and younger $12 and $15. Info: 489-2499.

SAN LUIS OBISPO, to Aug. 16: The Cal Poly Performing Arts Center will be presenting “Little Women: The Broadway Musical.” Shows will be Fridays and Saturdays at 7 pm. Saturday matinees will be held at 2 p.m. on Aug. 9 and 16. Cost: $23-29. Info and tickets: 756-2787 or www.pacslo.org.

SANTA MARIA, to Aug. 23: PCPA Theaterfest presents “The Imaginary Invalid” — the comedic story of a self-absorbed hypochondriac and his mess of a family — at the Marian Theatre, 800 S. College Dr. Performance times are 2 p.m. on Wednesday, Saturdays and Sundays; 7 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays. Cost: $16.25 to $28. Info and tickets: 922-8313 or www.pcpa.org.

SANTA BARBARA, Aug. 14 to 17: “Newton’s Cradle,” an original teen musical, will be performed by a cast of 14 students from local junior and senior high schools, at 8 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, with matinees at 3 p.m. Saturday, and 1 and 4 p.m. Sunday. The show was derived from experiences witnessed or lived by the 14 teenage cast members, and is rated PG-13. Cost: $20, $12 students and seniors. Info: 963-0408 or www.centerstagetheater.org.

AUDITIONS

SANTA MARIA, Aug. 23: PCPA is seeking girls ages 9 to 14 to perform in the holiday production of Irving Berlin’s “White Christmas.” Auditions will be held from 9 a.m. to noon. Performers should be prepared to sing 16 bars of any song and should bring a headshot and resume of past theatrical experience. Rehearsals begin Sept. 30 and performances run from Nov. 6 to Dec. 21. Info: 928-7731.

IN CONCERT

ARROYO GRANDE, Aug. 9: Asociacion Cultural Latino Americana will hold Musifiesta 2008, an annual fundraising event, at the South County Regional Center, 800 W. Branch St., 5:30 p.m. to midnight. The celebration will honor the country of Chile by featuring various Chilean artists including author Elisa Ferrada and dance troupe Araucaria. Info: 937-2535.

ARROYO GRANDE, Aug. 10: The Summer Concert Series will feature Celtic tunes by Sligo Rag and folk music by Steve Key at 1 p.m. on the Rotary Bandstand in the Village Green. Admission is free. Info: 773-4173.

ARROYO GRANDE, Aug. 30: Highway 101, a country-rock group, will perform at the Clark Center, 407 Fair Oaks Ave., at 8 p.m. Cost: $25 to $40. Info and tickets: www.clarkcenter.org.

AVILA BEACH, Aug. 31: Maestro Michale Nowak and the San Luis Obispo Symphony will present Pops by the Sea, 2 p.m., at the Avila Beach Golf Resort. Cost: party table seating is $25 to $80 per person/ lawn seating is $15 for adults, children 14 and under enter free. Info and tickets: 543-3533 or www.slosymphony.org.

LOMPOC, Aug. 10: Dawn Lambeth and Usonia Jazz will perform at the Lompoc Library, 501 E. North Ave., on the east library lawn at 2 p.m. Cost: free. Info: 734-3477.

PISMO BEACH: Harry’s Night Club & Beach Bar, 690 Cypress, presents live bands at 9 p.m. Friday to Wednesday, and 3 to 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Find your inner American Idol at Front Row Karaoke, 9 p.m. Thursday. Info: 773-1302.

SAN LUIS OBISPO, Aug. 8, 9 and 10: Linnaea’s Cafe. 1110 Garden Street, will host live performers Devin Wallace and Cody Pendant, Grumbling Ginger and Lost Hills at 8 p.m. Friday, 8 p.m. Saturday and 7 p.m. Sunday, respectively. Cost: free. Info: 541-5888 or www.linnaeas.com.

SAN LUIS OBISPO, Aug. 9: Satirical songwriter Roy Zimmerman will perform at The Clubhouse at This Old House, 740 W. Foothill Blvd., at 8:30 p.m. Cost: $15. Info: 548-8500 or www.clubhousereport.com.

SANTA BARBARA, Aug. 12: The Music Academy of the West presents Canadian Brass at 8 p.m. The show will feature classical music, particularly works of the Baroque era. The event will be hosted at the Santa Barbara Museum of Art, 1130 State St. Cost: $43. Info: 884-6430.

SANTA BARBARA, to Aug. 14: The Music Academy of the West will entertain visitors on Thursdays with 45 music recitals beginning at 2 p.m. The event, hosted at the Santa Barbara Museum of Art, 1130 State St., is free. Info: 884-6430.

SANTA BARBARA, Aug. 27: UCSB Arts and Lectures in association with the Alumni Association presents Jack Johnson in concert a 7 p.m. at Harder Stadium. Cost: $39.50. Tickets: 963-4408 or www.ticketmaster.com. Info: 893-3535 or www.artsandlectures.ucsb.edu.

MAKE MUSIC

ARROYO GRANDE, Wednesdays and Fridays: The Gran Cortina Singers welcome anyone age 55 and older to join them. They practice 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday and Friday at Cortina D’Arroyo Grande, 241 N. Courtland. Info: 473-2770.

ORCUTT, Mondays: The Coastal Voices is seeking singers of all vocal ranges. Rehearsals are 7 to 9 p.m. Mondays at St. Andrew United Methodist Church, 3945 S. Bradley Road. Info: 934-2494.

ORCUTT, Tuesdays: The Central City Chordsmen practice 7 to 9:30 p.m. Tuesdays at the Lutheran Church of Our Savior, corner of Bradley and Patterson. Everyone is invited to come listen, and male singers to participate. Info: 934-0399.

SANTA MARIA, Tuesdays: The Silvertones invite the community to join in their nostalgic sing-along of songs from 1890 to 1955. Get a blast from the past and share in the fun, 1 to 2:30 p.m. Tuesdays at Maria Del Sol, 1405 E. Main. Info: 937-7972.

SANTA MARIA, Thursdays: The Tri-City Sound Chorus of Sweet Adelines invites women of all ages to sing and perform with them. Practice is 6:45 to 9:30 p.m. Thursdays in Stahnke Hall at Lutheran Church of Our Savior, 4725 S. Bradley Road. Info: 736-7572.

SANTA YNEZ, Thursdays: The Valley Wind Ensemble invites newcomers who can read music and have their own instrument to join this community band of brass, woodwind and percussion players. Rehearsals are at 7 p.m. Thursdays in the Music Room of Santa Ynez High School. Info: 686-4489 or e-mail e.larrabee@verizon.net.

SPEAKERS

SANTA MARIA, second Saturday each month: The Santa Maria Valley Historical Society helps preserve the valley’s history each month with “The Valley Speaks,” in the Hancock Room at the Santa Maria Inn, 801 S. Broadway. The event is free; reservations should be made to ensure seating. This month’s guest speaker will be Richard Weldon, attorney at law, from 10 to 11 a.m. Aug. 9. Info and reservations: 934-3514 or e-mail shirley2@impulse.net.

NIPOMO, Aug. 9: Dana Adobe, 671 S. Oakglen Ave., will host “To Discourage Me is No Easy Matter” author Joe Dana at 1 p.m. for a discussion on the life of Captain William Goodwin Dana. Tours of the Adobe and burro rides will also be available. Admission is free. Info: 929-5679.

SANTA BARBARA, Aug. 16: Jay D. Glass, Ph.D. will speak on the topic “Evolutionary Origins of Religion: God in our Genes?” at 3 p.m. in the Patio Room at Vista del Monte, 3775 Moldoc Rd. Cost: $2 for students/ $5 for general public. Info: 965-3739 or www.sbhumanists.org.

ON SCREEN

SANTA BARBARA, Aug. 13: UCSB Arts and Lectures will screen “The Edge of Heaven” at 7:30 p.m. in Campbell Hall. Cost: $6 for general public/ $5 for UCSB students. Info and tickets: 893-3535 or www.artsandlectures.ucsb.edu.

SANTA BARBARA, Aug. 14 and 28: The Santa Barbara Museum of Art, 1130 State Street, will host a Free Film Series at 5:30 p.m. in the Mary Craig Auditorium with UCSB Film and Media Studies Professor,Chuck Wolfe providing the introduction and exploring the notion of Hollywood as idea and ideal. Seating is limited. Info: 884-6430.

GET SOME CLASS

SAN LUIS OBISPO, Aug. 11 to 15: The SLO Art Center, 1010 Broad St., will host local artist Charlie Clingman from 1 to 4 p.m. for a five day workshop on how to design your own surfboard. Space is limited to 15. Cost: $95 for members/ $115 for non-members. Info: 543-8562 or sloartcenter.org

SANTA MARIA, Mondays: Mission Improvable offers comedy acting classes for youth from 4 to 5:30 p.m.; adult classes are 5:30 to 7 p.m. in the Acoustic Lounge at Town Center East. Come watch or join them in word games, theater exercises and group activities to challenge the mind and make you smile. Cost: $5 per class. Info: 474-8945 or www.missionimprovable.org.

SANTA MARIA, Mondays and Tuesdays: The Central Coast Swing Dance Club offers dance classes at The Maverick Saloon, 510 S. Broadway. Learn salsa at 7 p.m. Monday and West Coast Swing at 7 p.m. Tuesday, followed by open dancing. No experience or partner required. Cost: $10 per class, open dancing is free. Info: 937-1574 or www.centralcoastswingdance.com.

SOLVANG, Aug. 9: The Valley Community Theatre is offering an Actors’ Workshop on from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Grange Hall, 2374 Alamo Pintado Rd, with instructor Eleanor Lind. Class is limited to 12 participants. Cost: $20. Info and registration: 686-5830.

ART SESSIONS

AVILA BEACH, Sundays to Nov. 28: “Art on the Beach at Avila” continues from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sundays in the Plaza near the Avila Pier, weather permitting. Central Coast artists from San Luis Obispo County will be painting, drawing, displaying and selling their original works of art. Each week an artist will select a work to be raffled to benefit the El Camino Art Association’s Scholarship Fund. Info: 773-2383.

LOMPOC, first Tuesday: The Lompoc Valley Art Association meets at 7:30 p.m. at the Alpha Clubhouse, 704 E. Ocean Ave. A “social hour” begins at 7 p.m., and the public is invited to attend. Info: 737-1129.

OCEANO, first Saturday: The California Poppy Decorative Artists meet at 10 a.m., at the Oceano Sheriff’s Sub-Station, 1681 Front St. (Highway 1). Newcomers are welcome. Info: 772-1916 or 235-4966.

ORCUTT: Aug. 8: Local artist Stephanie Krouse will showcase her pastel painting techniques at the monthly meeting of the Los Padres Artist Guild at 7 p.m. Aug. 8, Luis OASIS Senior Center, 420 Soares Ave. Info: Michael at 934-5835 or lospadresartistguild.com.

SAN LUIS OBISPO, Wednesdays: The San Luis Obispo Art Center, 1010 Broad St., offers Life Drawing 9 a.m. to noon and 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. A model is provided, but no instruction. Bring your own art supplies. Tables and some easels are available. Sculptors should attend the evening session when there will be longer poses. Cost: $10 per class, members $8. Info: 543-8562 or www.sloartcenter.org.

SAN LUIS OBISPO, third Saturday: The Central Coast Woodturners of California meet at 9 a.m. at the Odd Fellows Hall, 520 Dana St. New and beginner woodturners are welcome. Info: George Paes at 929-1423.

SANTA MARIA, Wednesdays: The Paint Club meets from 9 to 11 a.m. Wednesdays to paint and socialize at the Elwin Mussell Senior Center, 510 E. Park Ave. Cost: 50 cents. Info: 925-0951, Ext. 207.

CALL FOR ARTISTS

SANTA MARIA: The Good Neighbor Bakery, 2660 Industrial Pky, is currently looking for artwork to display in their bakery. Info: Lynda at 925-9700.

DOCENTS WANTED

SANTA MARIA: The Natural History Museum, 412 S. McClelland, Santa Maria, seeks volunteer couples for Sunday afternoons, 1 to 4 p.m., one day per month, to help this great little museum stay open for Sunday family fun. If interested in an orientation appointment call 937-4946 or visit www.naturalhistorysantamaria.com.

SANTA MARIA: Volunteer senior docents and tour guides are needed at local museums. Training is provided. Volunteer and reward yourself at the Santa Maria Historical Society passing on the historical past of the area: the Dana Adobe, teaching about the Nipomo Land Grant; the Natural History Museum, teaching about animals and displays; or become a flyboy or flygirl at the Museum of Flight. Info: Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) at 922-9931.

MUSEUMS

ARROYO GRANDE, Saturdays and Sundays: The Barn, 127 Short St., is the South County Historical Society’s Museum Annex and houses antique vehicles, fire equipment, printing presses and agricultural artifacts. Hours are noon to 3 p.m. Saturday and 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday. Free. Info: www.southcountyhistory.org.

ARROYO GRANDE, Saturdays and Sundays: The Heritage House, 126 Mason St., was built in the late 1800s and houses period clothing, photographs, kitchen items and more. Docents provide information. Hours are noon to 3 p.m. Saturday and 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday. Free. Info: www.southcountyhistory.org.

ARROYO GRANDE, Saturdays and Sundays: The Santa Manuela Schoolhouse, 127 Short St., is a one-room schoolhouse, built in 1901. Docents provide information. Hours are noon to 3 p.m. Saturday and 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday. Free. Info: www.southcountyhistory.org.

GUADALUPE, ongoing: The Guadalupe Cultural Arts and Education Center, 1065 Guadalupe St. (Highway 1), is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays. Info: 568-3990.

GUADALUPE, ongoing: The Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Center, 1055 Guadalupe St., preserves the geology, flora and fauna of the dunes environment and its multi-cultural history. It features natural science exhibits and the Cecil B. DeMille Lost City exhibit of artifacts from the film location for his 1923 movie “The Ten Commandments.” Tour hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday to Sunday. Donation: $2, children 11 and younger free. Info: 343-2455 or www.dunescenter.org.

GUADALUPE, Saturdays and Sundays: Rancho de Guadalupe Historical Museum, 1005 Guadalupe St., is open 1 to 3 p.m. or by appointment. Info: 343-5901.

LOMPOC, ongoing: Fabing-McKay-Spanne House, 207 North “L” St. is a restored turn-of-the-century home featuring a carriage house, reference room and the anchor of the USS Chauncey, a destroyer wrecked off the nearby coast during the 1923 Honda Point tragedy, the Navy’s largest peace-time disaster. Hours are 8:30 to 11 a.m. Monday and Thursday, and the fourth Saturday each month. Donation. Info: 735-4626.

LOMPOC, ongoing: La Purisima Mission, 2295 Purisima Road, offers a guided tour at 1 p.m. except when special events are scheduled. Advance tour reservations required for groups larger than 10. Info: 733-3713; groups: 733-1303, or www.lapurisimamission.org.

LOMPOC, to Sept. 5: The Lompoc Museum, 200 South H Street, presents “A Medley of Sculpture,” works by members of the Lompoc Sculptors Guild, in the Centeno Gallery. Hours are 1 to 5 p.m. Tuesday to Friday, 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Donation: $1. Info: 736-3888

LOS OLIVOS, Aug. 9 and 12: The Wildling Museum will host a Wild Bird Photography Workshop taught by Richard Lindekens at 2948 Nojoqui Street from 7 to 9 p.m. on Aug. 7 and 12, and all day on Aug. 9. Cost: $175 for nonmembers/ $150 for members. Students must bring their own cameras. Info: 688-1082 or www.wildlingmuseum.org.

LOS OLIVOS, to Aug. 8: The Wildling Art Museum will host a painting workshop — “Building a Painting” — at 2329 Jonata Street from 10 a.m. to noon daily. Ages 6 to adult may participate. Cost: $175 for nonmembers/ $150 for members. Info: 688-1082 or www.wildlingmuseum.org.

NIPOMO, Saturdays and Sundays: The Dana Adobe, 671 S. Oakglen Ave., begun in 1839 and completed in 1851, offers tours are from noon to 4 p.m. on Sundays. Special tours, schools and group tours are also available. Donation. Info: 929-5679 or www.danaadobe.org.

SAN LUIS OBISPO, ongoing: The Central Coast Veterans Memorial Museum, 801 Grand Ave., exhibits historical maps of the United States from World War I to the present, artifacts contributed by local residents, and photos and biographies of area veterans. Open 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday to Saturday. Children very welcome. Free. Info: 543-1763.

SAN LUIS OBISPO, ongoing: Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa exhibits historical artifacts, including Chumash Indian vessels, religious vestments and the original mission altar. Free. Info: 546-6850.

SAN LUIS OBISPO, Wednesdays through Sundays: The San Luis Obispo County Museum and History Center, 696 Monterey St., features a simulated 1880s San Luis Obispo kitchen, laundry room and parlor where women took on the full-time job of keeping house and cooking using many “modern kitchen gadgets.” Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday to Sunday. Free. Info: 543-0638.

SAN LUIS OBISPO, Fridays and Sundays: Dallidet Adobe and Gardens, located at 1185 Pacific Street, is open to the public two days a week. Friday hours are from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Sunday hours are from 1 to 4 p.m. Dallident docents are on hand to give tours on Sundays. Admission is free. Info: 543-0638.

SANTA BARBARA, ongoing: The Gladwin Planetarium, at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History, 2559 Puesta del Sol, invites you to experience the wonders of the night sky as never before with a fully digital star projection system. Tickets: $4 per person with paid museum admission, members free. Museum admission: $8, seniors and teens $7, children $5, ages 2 and younger, free. Info: 682-4711 or www.sbnature.org.

SANTA BARBARA, ongoing: The Karpeles Manuscript Library, 21 W. Anapamu St., houses the world’s largest private holding of original manuscripts and documents of literature, science, religion, history and art. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. Free. Info: 962-5322.

SANTA BARBARA, Tuesdays through Sundays: The Santa Barbara Historical Society, 136 E. De La Guerra St., is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday to Saturday, noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Free. Info: 966-1279 or www.santabarbaramuseum.com.

SANTA BARBARA: The Santa Barbara Maritime Museum, 113 Harbor Way, Suite 190, houses a quarter-scale working replica of the Lougheed Brothers’ F-1 Seaplane, with its 18-foot wingspan. Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. Admission: $6, seniors, students and youth $3, children ages 1 to 5 $1. Info: 962-8404 or www.sbmm.org.

SANTA BARBARA, Tuesdays through Sundays: The Santa Barbara Museum of Art, 1130 State St., is open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday to Sunday; closed Monday. Cost: $9, seniors, students and children ages 6 to 17 $6. Free Sundays. Info: 963-4364 or www.sbma.net. Current exhibitions:

To Aug. 17: “It’s All About Me: California Artists’ Self Portraits,” images of artists by artist from the 1940s to the present. WEB

To Aug. 27: “A Tibet Exhibition 1938: Selected Gifts from Two Explorers,” paintings, sculptures and ritual objects collected by explorers F. Bailey Vanderhoef Jr. and Wilbur L. Cummings Jr.

Continuing: “Identities,” contemporary art from Asia, Europe, and the Americas; “From Geisha to Ghosts: Leading Ladies of Japanese Woodblock Prints”; “Picture Stories: The Art of Europe and the Americas,” works by DŸrer, Rembrandt, Monet, Dali, Motherwell and O’Keeffe; Siqueiros’ mural “Portrait of Mexico Today” and The Children’s Gallery.

SANTA BARBARA, to Nov. 2: The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History, 2559 Puesta del Sol Road, presents “GIANTS: African Dinosaurs.” Come face-to-face with these prehistoric skeletal giants in an interactive dinosaur experience. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Cost: $8, seniors and teens $7, children $5, ages 2 and younger, free. Info: 682-4711 or www.sbnature.org.

SANTA BARBARA, Thursdays through Sundays: The Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preservation is open noon to 4 p.m. Thursday to Sunday. Admission: $3, free for Trust members. Info: www.sbthp.org.

SANTA BARBARA: The Santa Barbara Zoo, 500 Ninos Drive, has two highly endangered snow leopards on view. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, closed Thanksgiving and Christmas. Cost: $9, seniors 60 and older, and children age 2 to 12 $7, under age 2 admitted free. Parking: $3. Info: 962-5339 or www.santabarbarazoo.org.

SANTA BARBARA: The Ty Warner Sea Center, 211 Stearns Wharf. Learn more about the species found in the Santa Barbara Channel and the impact humans have on sharks and their habitats. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Cost: $8, seniors and teens $7, children $5, ages 2 and younger, free. Info: 962-2526 or www.sbnature.org.

SANTA BARBARA, to Sept. 1: The Santa Barbara Natural History Museum, 2559 Puesta del Sol Road, is currently displaying “Six Meter Woman of Body Worlds 3,” a transparent, plastinated body comprising 83 slices representing all of the body’s regions. The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Cost: free for members, $10 for adults, $7 for seniors, $7 for teens and $6 for children. Info: 682-4711 or www.sbnature.org.

SANTA MARIA, Tuesdays and Thursdays: The historic Santa Maria City Hall, 110 E. Cook St., is open 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 3 p.m., by reservation only. Info: 925-0951, Ext. 1117.

SANTA MARIA, Wednesdays to Sundays: The Santa Maria Natural History Museum, 412 S. McClelland, invites visitors to enjoy multisensory exhibits with a regional focus. “Titans of the Pacific,” features a life-size killer whale, great white shark and dolphins. There’s a beaver habitat, bat barn and “touch” table, plus the new exhibit and original video “From the Beginning, Under the Sea,” about plate tectonics and how they relate to our local area. Hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday to Saturday; and 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday. Donation. Info: 614-0806 or www.naturalhistorysantamaria.com.

SANTA MARIA, Fridays through Sundays: The Santa Maria Museum of Flight, 3015 Airpark Drive, features early aviation and present-day displays of aircraft and artifacts. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Cost: $5, seniors $4, ages 12 to 18 $3, children 6 to 12 $1. Info: 922-8758.

SANTA MARIA, Mondays through Saturdays: The Santa Maria Valley Discovery Museum, 705 S. McClelland St., has a 3,000 gallon shark tank, a paleontology dig, live rain forest friends, the creation station, a shipwreck and the Mars terrain climbing wall. Hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Saturday , 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday, closed Sunday. Cost: $6; children 2 and younger $1, seniors 65 and older $5. Info: 928-8414 or www.smvdiscoverymuseum.org.

SANTA MARIA, Tuesdays through Saturdays: The Santa Maria Valley Historical Museum, 616 S. Broadway, houses local ranch memorabilia, a room honoring Capt. G. Allan Hancock and artifacts of the Central Coast. Hours are noon to 5 p.m. Tuesday to Saturday. Donation. Info: Richard Chenoweth at 922-3130.

SANTA MARIA, Saturdays and Sundays: The Santa Maria Valley Railway Historical Museum, Santa Maria Town Center Mall, second floor, preserves the railroad heritage of California, the Central Coast and Santa Maria Valley. The museum features exhibits, vintage rolling stock and a large model railroad. Hours are 1 to 4:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Info: 714-4927 or www.smvrhm.org.

SANTA MARIA, Aug. 17: Jack Swords, a member of the California Rare Fruit Growers Association, presents “Rare Fruiting Plants to Grow on the Central Coast” at the Natural History Museum, 412 S. McClelland at 2 p.m. Samples of uncommon fruits and nuts grown locally will be offered. Donation. Info: 614-0806 or www.naturalhistorysantamaria.com.

SANTA YNEZ, Wednesdays through Sundays: The Santa Ynez Valley Historical Society Museum, 3596 Sagunto St., is open noon to 4 p.m. Wednesday to Sunday. Admission: $4, ages 15 and younger admitted free. Info: 688-7889 or www.syvm.org.

SOLVANG: The Motorcycle Museum, 320 Alisal Road, displays vintage motorcycles. Cost: $5, children under 10 free with parent or guardian. Info: 686-9522.

SOLVANG: Old Mission Santa Ines, 1760 Mission Drive, features hand-painted murals by Indian artists, European art and sculptures, a garden and more. Cost: $3, free for children 12 and younger. Info: 688-4815.

SOLVANG, to Sept. 21: The Elverhoj Museum of History and Art, 1624 Elverhoy Way, will feature Merv Corning Retrospective, a collection of original artworks displaying the various stages in the illustrious career of a renowned painter with close local ties. Info: 686-1211 or www.elverhoj.org.

ART GALLERIES

ARROYO GRANDE, Mondays through Saturdays: Carried Away Art, 1200 E. Grand Ave., is open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday to Saturday. Free. Info: 481-4364 or www.carriedawayart.com.

AVILA BEACH: Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort, 1215 Avila Bay Drive, is open 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. Info: 595-7302.

AVILA BEACH, Thursdays through Saturdays: Salisbury Fine Art Gallery, 1250 San Luis Bay Dr., is open noon to 5 p.m. Thursday to Saturday. Info: 878-8374.

AVILA BEACH: Visions Art Gallery, 425 First St., features works in various mediums by nationally and internationally known artists. Info: 772-5083 or 595-2230.

LOMPOC: The Grossman Gallery at the Lompoc Library, 501 E. North Ave., is open noon to 8 p.m. Monday to Thursday, and noon to 6 p.m. Friday to Sunday. Free. Info: 875-8787.

LOMPOC: Lompoc Valley Hospital, 508 E. Hickory Ave., exhibits works by members of the Lompoc Valley Art Association in the lobby. Info: 737-3300.

LOMPOC, to Aug. 31: The Cypress Gallery, 119 E. Cypress Ave., will feature “Abstract Thought,” a collection of oil paintings by Elizabeth Monks Hack. A reception will be held on Aug. 2 from 1 to 3 p.m. Gallery hours are 12 to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday. Info: 737-1129.

LOS ALAMOS, Tuesdays through Sundays: Gallery Art Brut, 458 Bell St., presents works by Nipomo artist Rupert Trinidad and California Impressionists of the 30s and 40s. The gallery also features fine art, antiques and represents a dozen Central Coast artists. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday to Sunday. Info: 344-4440.

LOS ALAMOS: The C Gallery, 466 Bell Street, is open from 1 to 4 p.m. Regular hours are Thursday though Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sundays from noon to 4 p.m. Info: 344-3807 or connie@thecgallery.com.

LOS OLIVOS, to Sept. 30: Carina Cellars Tasting Room, 2900 Grand Avenue will display works by recent UCSB graduate, Katie Desrochers. The exhibit — “Three People, Seven Places” — depicts scenes from her three months spent in Europe. A reception will be held Aug. 8 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Info: 688-2459 or www.carinacellars.com.

LOS OLIVOS, from Aug. 2: Works by Central Coast clay and enamel artist Maggie Pickering and Judeenne Warren, oil painters from Santa Barbara, will be featured at Gallery Los Olivos, 2920 Grand Avenue. A reception will be from 1 to 4 p.m. Aug. 2. Open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Info: 688-7517.

LOS OLIVOS: The Judith Hale South Gallery, 2884 and 2890 Grand Ave., is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Info: 693-1233.

NIPOMO, Mondays through Fridays: The Mission Community Bank on Tefft St. features art displays by local artists from the El Camino Art Association. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Thursday and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday. Free. Info: 929-2440.

SAN LUIS OBISPO: The Gallery at the Network, 778 Higuera St., is open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily; open to 8 p.m. Thursdays and to 5 p.m. Sundays. Info: 788-0886.

SAN LUIS OBISPO, Mondays through Fridays: Gulliver’s Travels, 605 Santa Rosa St., is open 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday to Friday. Info: 489-1487.

SAN LUIS OBISPO, to Aug. 17: The San Luis Obispo Art Center, 1010 Broad Street, will display “ex nihilo — drawings,” featuring compelling free association compositions by Atascadero artist and former Curator, Timothy Anderson. The Art Center is open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Wednesday to Monday. Free. Info: 543-8562.

SAN LUIS OBISPO, to Sept. 28: The San Luis Obispo Art Center, 1010 Broad Street, will exhibit acrylic and watercolor paintings by Robert Reynolds. A reception and book signing will be held Aug. 16 from 6 to 9 p.m. Free. Info: 543-8562.

SAN LUIS OBISPO: The Steynburg Gallery, 1531 Monterey St., is open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. Info: 929-1444.

SANTA BARBARA, to Sept. 6: The Art From Scrap Gallery, 302 E. Cota St., will feature the works of Charlotte Valestra in an exhibit titles “Anything Goes.” Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays; from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursdays. Info: 884-0459, ext. 15 or www.artfromscrap.org.

SANTA BARBARA, Tuesdays through Saturdays: The Arts Fund Santa Barbara, 205-C Santa Barbara St., is open 1 to 5 p.m. Tuesday to Saturday. Info: 965-7321.

SANTA BARBARA: Brooks Institute Cota Street Gallery, 27 E. Cota St., is open 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. weekdays, and 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. weekends. Info: 966-3888 or www.brooks.edu.

SANTA BARBARA, Mondays through Fridays: The Channing Peake Gallery, 105 E. Anapamu St., first floor of the Santa Barbara County Administration Building, is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays. Free. Info: 568-3994.

SANTA BARBARA: Contemporary Arts Forum, 653 Paseo Nuevo, is open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday to Saturday, noon to 5 p.m. Sunday, and Monday by appointment only. Donation. Docent-guided group tours and info: 966.5373, Ext. 14.

SANTA BARBARA: Gallery 113, No. 8 La Arcada Court, 1114 State St., is open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday. Info: 967-6519.

SANTA BARBARA, Mondays through Fridays: The Jewish Federation of Greater Santa Barbara in the Bronfman Family Jewish Community Center, 524 Chapala St., is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday. Free. Info: 963-6754, Ext. 108, or www.jewishsantabarbara.org.

SANTA BARBARA, Aug. 29: The 7th Annual SBSA Studio Tour, which will showcase the work of various local artists, will take place during Labor Day weekend, Aug. 30 and Aug. 31 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. An Opening Gala Exhibition will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. on Aug. 29 at the Arts Fund Santa Barbara Gallery, 205 Santa Barbara St. Cost: $20. Info and tickets: 899-8854 or www.santabarbarastudioartists.com.

SANTA MARIA, Mondays through Fridays: The Betteravia Gallery in the Betteravia Government Center, 511 E. Lakeside Parkway, is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays. Free. Info: 568-3990.

SANTA MARIA, Saturdays and Sundays: The McKeon-Phillips Art Gallery and Winery, 2115 S. Blosser Road, is open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekends. Free. Info: 928-3025.

SANTA MARIA, Tuesdays through Fridays: Photoworks Frame Gallery, 555 E. Clark Ave., Suite C, is open 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday to Friday. Info: 937-8114.

WINERIES

ARROYO GRANDE: Talley Vineyard Tasting Room, 3031 Lopez Drive, opens its tasting rooms from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily. Info: 489-0446.

LOMPOC: Babcock Winery and Vineyards, 5175 E, Highway 246, opens its tasting room 10:30 to 4 p.m. Friday to Sunday, and noon to 4 p.m. Monday. Other times available by appointment. Info: 736-1455 or www.babcockwinery.com.

ORCUTT, Tuesdays through Sundays: The Addamo Estate Vineyards, 400 E. Clark Ave., offers award-winning wines, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday to Sunday. Info: 937-6400 or www.addamovineyards.com.

SANTA MARIA: Cambria Winery, 5475 Chardonnay Lane, opens their tasting room 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Picnic tables are available. Info: 937-8091.

SANTA MARIA: Costa de Oro Winery, Stowell Road, east side of Highway 101, offers local fresh produce, food and gift items. Their tasting room is open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. Info: 922-1468.

SANTA MARIA: Cottonwood Canyon Winery & Vineyard, 3940 Dominion Road, offers a tour and vintage tasting in their wine caves 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Cost: $10 per person. The tasting room is open daily. Cost: tours $15 (includes wine glass), tastings $7 and $10. Info: 937-8463 or www.cottonwoodcanyon.com.

SANTA MARIA, Fridays through Mondays: Foxen Vineyard, 7200 Foxen Canyon Road, is located in an old blacksmith shop, and has a small picnic area on the grounds. Visitors are welcome noon to 4 p.m. Info: 937-4251.

SANTA MARIA, Saturdays and Sundays: McKeon-Phillips Winery and Art Gallery, 2115 S. Blosser Road, Suite 114, opens their tasting room 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Info: 928-3025 or www.mckeonphillipswinery.com.

SANTA MARIA: Rancho Sisquoc Winery, 6600 Foxen Canyon Road, is in an 1875 chapel, barn and ranch that invite guests into what the Chumash Indians called “Sisquoc” or gathering place. The winery is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily and has picnic facilities. Info: 934-4332 or www.ranchosisquoc.com.

SANTA MARIA: Riverbench Vineyard and Winery, 6020 Foxen Canyon Road, offers tours and tastings 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, groups of 8 or more by appointment. Cost: $5 to $7. Info: 937-8340 or www.riverbench.com.

NIGHTLIFE

ARROYO GRANDE, Tuesdays: Bill’s Place, 112 E. Branch, has performers 7 to 10 p.m. Info: 489-9989.

BUELLTON, Thursdays through Sundays: A.J. Spurs, 350 E. Hwy. 246, presents Mike Shelton on guitar and vocals, 6 to 10 p.m. Info: 686-1655.

ORCUTT, Friday nights: The Loading Dock, 315 S. Broadway, offers live music, a light dinner menu, beer and wine. There may be a cover charge for some events; children 12 and younger free. Info: 934-3471 or rocknthedock@aol.com.

PISMO BEACH: Harry’s Night Club & Beach Bar, 690 Cypress, presents live bands at 9 p.m. Friday to Wednesday, and 3 to 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Find your inner American Idol at Front Row Karaoke, 9 p.m. Thursday. Info: 773-1302.

PISMO BEACH, Wednesdays: SeaVenture Restaurant, 100 Ocean View Ave., invites you to jive to live jazz, 6 to 9 p.m. Wednesday. Info: 773-4994.

PISMO BEACH, Thursdays through Sundays: Shore Cliff Lodge, 2555 Price St., presents live music starting at 6 p.m. Thursday, 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 5 p.m. Sunday. Info: 773-4671.

SANTA MARIA, second and fourth Fridays: DW’s American Bistro, 2646 Santa Maria Way, Suite 106, presents Ed Hite on solo jazz guitar, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. No cover. Info: 346-2800 or www.dwsbistro.com.