USA - Activities / Events

The Rocky Mountain states (and Colorado in particular) are home to the country's most popular downhill skiing and snowboarding destinations. Elsewhere in the US you'll also find great cross-country skiing.
The US may be the most industrialised nation on earth, but it's also the land of opportunity when it comes to hiking.
Rock climbing and mountaineering are popular pursuits, especially in the Sierra Nevada and Rockies.
Many cities are relatively cycle-friendly, and hardy souls go cycling across and around the country on picturesque backroads. Mountain biking is a huge pastime, particularly in California (where it was invented).
If you still have energy left, you can go horse riding in New York's Central Park, river rafting on Idaho's Snake River or caving in New Mexico's beautiful Carlsbad Caverns.

Outdoor pursuits
The vast expanses of wilderness, mountains, forest, canyons and coastlines of the USA lend themselves to a wide range of outdoor pursuits. From trekking in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, whitewater rafting through the Grand Canyon on the Colorado River, canoeing down the Mississippi River, fishing on the Great Lakes, sailing in Florida, diving in Hawaii to skiing in the Rocky Mountains, every activity can easily be arranged. The USA’s national parks are administered by the National Park Service (NPS; website: www.nps.gov). Hiking trails are generally well kept and well marked. The National Park system includes National Monuments, which are smaller than parks and focus on maybe just one archaeological site or geological phenomenon (such as Devil’s Tower in Wyoming), National Forests and 170 or so lesser known Parks, which are located away from the cities and highways. State Parks and State Monuments are administered by individual States. Most of the USA’s parks and outdoor recreational areas have visitor centers where advice on trails, activities and other practical information (such as weather reports or fishing regulations) can be obtained. Most parks and monuments charge admission fees ranging from US$4-20. A number of passes are available from the NPS: the National Parks Pass (US$50) gives one driver and all accompanying passengers a year’s unlimited access to nearly all national parks and monuments (users should note that this pass does not reduce fees for facilities such as camping, swimming, parking and boat launching). Only the larger parks have hotel-style accommodation, while almost all parks and monuments have facilities for camping. Fishing permits are compulsory and vary from State to State. Rock climbing and mountaineering are particularly popular in the Sierra Nevada and in the Rocky Mountains. For further information about reservations, permits, regulations and services, visitors should contact the individual parks in advance or the National Park Service, 1849 C Street, NW, Washington, DC 20240 (tel: (202) 208 6843; website: www.nps.gov).

Spectator sports
Often called ‘the nation’s pastime’, baseball is an important part of the US psyche. The ‘boys of summer’ play Major League Baseball (tel: (212) 931 7800; website: www.mlb.com) from April to September, 162 games in total, culminating in the post-season World Series championships, first contested in 1903. Games are frequent and tickets for regular season games are readily available and can be relatively cheap, starting at around US$9 per seat. American football tickets during the September to January National Football League (NFL; tel: (212) 450 2000; website: www.nfl.com) season are not only very expensive but also extremely hard to come by. Many people opt for the popular college games instead. College basketball is also surprisingly high profile, although not as big a draw as professional games in the National Basketball Association (NBA) (tel: (212) 407 8000; website: www.nba.com), whose season runs from November to April, with the playoffs often extending to June. The popularity of ice hockey has expanded from Canadian and far northern cities to the rest of the USA. Professional teams compete in the National Hockey League (website: www.nhl.com) from October to March, and tickets are sold out quickly. The most popular tennis competition in the USA is the US Open at Flushing Meadows in New York, held from late August to early September. Individual tickets go on sale during June. For ticket information, write to Customer Service, US Open Ticket Office, USTA National Tennis Center, Flushing Meadows Corona Park, Flushing, NY 11368 (website: www.usopen.org). For general information on tennis, contact the United States Tennis Association (website: www.usta.com). The heart of horse racing in the USA is the ‘bluegrass country’, focused around the State of Kentucky. The most important races of the year, the Bluegrass Stakes and the Kentucky Derby (on the first Saturday in May), are run at the Churchill Downs racecourse in Louisville, Kentucky. There are also major tracks in New England. Rodeos, a legacy of the historical development that resulted from the spread of cattle ranching, are frequently held in Colorado, Oklahoma, Texas and throughout the western States. The USA also hosts the world’s largest motor racing event, the Indianapolis 500, held annually in May.

Wintersports
The USA offers some of the world’s best skiing runs, particularly in the Rocky Mountains and the Sierra Nevada. The Rocky Mountain States (and Colorado in particular) are exceptionally good for downhill skiing, the best-known resorts including Aspen, Big Sky, Jackson Hole and Vail. In the Sierra Nevada, Lake Tahoe is the major ski destination. Cross-country skiing is also well catered for, with backcountry ski lodges scattered around mountainous areas along both coasts (New England and California) and in the Rockies. Minnesota, Wisconsin and Wyoming are also good destinations for cross-country skiing. Information on cross-country skiing can be obtained from the Cross Country Ski Areas Association (website: www.xcski.org). In the past few years, snowboarding has become increasingly popular, and plenty of ski resorts now offer half pipes and board rental.

Golf
The American passion for golf is exemplified by the extremely high number of courses found throughout the country, as well as the massive crowds flocking to the United States Golf Association’s national championships games. In 2002, the 102nd US Open was held on a public course for the first time, at Bethage State Park (Black Course) on Long Island. For further details on courses, fees and competitions, contact the United States Golf Association (USGA), PO Box 708, Far Hills, NJ 07931 (tel: (908) 234 2300; fax: (908) 234 9687; website: www.usga.org).

Watersports
One of the activities that epitomizes US sport is surfing and Hawaii, with its legendary winter swells at northern Oahu (surfing’s spiritual home), Sunset Beach, Waimea and the Banzai Pipeline (situated in the Ehukai beach parks), remains one of the USA’s (and the world’s) most famous surfing destinations. California also has some good breaks in Malibu, Rincon and Steamer Lane. During winter, southern California is also superb, with swells at Huntingdon Beach and Santa Cruz. Diving and snorkeling are particularly good in California, Florida, Hawaii and along the East Coast. The Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI), the world’s largest recreational diving membership organization, has its headquarters in California, at 30151 Tomas Street, Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688 (tel: (800) 729 7234 or (949) 858 7234; fax: (949) 858 7264; e-mail: webmaster@padi.com; website: www.padi.com). Other popular watersports include sailing, windsurfing, sea kayaking and jetskiing.



Events
Americans love parades and pageantry, so there's no shortage of events and festivities. Half the country comes to a standstill during the Super Bowl, the roving American-football finale held in late January. New Orleans' Mardi Gras, in February or March, is a rowdy, touristy, bacchanalian knees-up. St Patrick's Day, in mid-March, is celebrated with parades and pitchers of green beer; it's especially fervent in New York and Chicago. The Kentucky Derby is raced in Louisville in May.
Independence Day (the Fourth of July) is celebrated with lots of flag-waving patriotism, fireworks and the odd beverage. Inveterate travellers should drop into the National Hobo Convention in Britt, Iowa, in August. Halloween (October 31) is a big deal for kids, who go trick-or-treating around their neighbourhood; in Greenwich Village, West Hollywood and San Francisco the holiday is subversively celebrated with glam parades. Americans go home to mom and pop for a big feed on Thanksgiving, the fourth Thursday of November.


Slave Life at Mount Vernon
Tue 01 Jan 2008 - Wed 31 Dec 2008
Mount Vernon
Visitors to George Washington's Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens can go on a guided half-hour walking tour through the estate.

Philadelphia Shakespeare Festival
Fri 14 Mar 2008 - Sat 17 May 2008
Philadelphia
Celebrating the works of the Great Bard, each year the annual Philadelphia Shakespeare Festival stages productions of two or three of his plays.

Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival
Wed 19 Mar 2008 - Sun 01 Jun 2008
Orlando
This popular festival really has to be seen to be believed as Disney’s top horticulturalists give the gardens a special makeover every spring.

Shakespeare Dallas
Fri 28 Mar 2008 - Sun 26 Oct 2008
Dallas
The annual Shakespeare Dallas festival brings the great Bard’s works to the stage.

Georgia Renaissance Festival
Sat 12 Apr 2008 - Sun 01 Jun 2008
Fairburn
Entering the gates of the magnificent 15th-century kingdom, visitors are transported back in time to a land of kings and queens, banquets and duelling knights.

Swanboats Season
Sat 19 Apr 2008 - Sun 21 Sep 2008
Boston
Boston’s famous Swan Boats are something of an institution in city and herald the arrival of the summer season.

Kite and Flight Festival
Thu 01 May 2008 - Sat 31 May 2008 Date to be confirmed
Boston
A great family day out, the annual Kite and Flight Festival at Boston’s Franklin Park sees the skies filled with kites of all shapes and sizes.

Chicago Farmers' Markets
Thu 01 May 2008 - Fri 31 Oct 2008
Chicago
Farmers from Illinois, Indiana, Michigan and Wisconsin come to sell their produce at various farmers markets in the city.

Reno/Tahoe Wine, Food and Jazz Festival
Thu 01 May 2008 - Sat 31 May 2008 Date to be confirmed
Reno
Bringing together three of life’s great pleasures all under one roof, this annual event is a celebration of good food, fine wine and great music.

Bike Chicago
Thu 01 May 2008 - Tue 30 Sep 2008
Chicago
Held each year from May through until September, Bike Chicago is a five-month programme of cycle-friendly events aimed at promoting cycling in the city.

Art Expo byDesign
Thu 15 May 2008 - Sun 18 May 2008
Gatlinburg
Fine art, textiles, exotic works and contemporary crafts will all be on display, and for sale, during the Art Expo byDesign.

World Fireknife Dance Competition and Samoa Festival
Fri 16 May 2008 - Mon 19 May 2008
Honolulu
Attracting competitors from Hawaii, American Samoa, Samoa, the US mainland and other locations in the Pacific-Rim, this event sees participants compete in dance-offs to be crowned champion in the World Fireknife Dance Competition.

Spring Craft Fair
Sat 17 May 2008 - Sun 18 May 2008
Nashville
The TACA Spring Craft Fair is the state’s premier outdoor showcase for Tennessee craft artists.

Northern Virginia Fine Arts Festival
Sat 17 May 2008 - Sun 18 May 2008
Reston
Nearly 200 of the USA's finest artists exhibit and sell their paintings, sculpture, fine-craft and jewellery at the Northern Virginia Fine Arts Festival, the largest outdoor art festival on the east coast, attracting over 60,000 visitors with live entertainment and children's activities.

Indian Market and Pow Wow
Sat 17 May 2008 - Sun 18 May 2008
Denver
The Indian Market and Pow Wow at the historic Fort in Morrison, Colorado attracts some of the foremost Native American artists every year.

Affaire in the Garden
Sat 17 May 2008 - Sun 18 May 2008
Beverly Hills
A two-day open-air fair and art event, Affaire in the Garden features the work of over 200 artists.

West Coast Brew Fest
Sat 17 May 2008
Sacramento
Entirely different to the bland beers of the big producers, the micro breweries of the USA turn out brews of character and variety.

Bay to Breakers Race
Sun 18 May 2008
San Francisco
Each year around 75,000 runners take to the streets for the Bay to Breakers Race.

Fleet Week
Tue 20 May 2008 - Mon 26 May 2008
New York City
Held in the week leading up to and including Memorial Day, the annual Fleet Week is a colourful affair and a celebration of the various sea services.

Seattle International Film Festival
Thu 22 May 2008 - Sun 15 Jun 2008
Seattle
Screening a great programme of over 300 features, shorts, documentaries and animation films, the annual Seattle International Film Festival (SIFF) is one of the biggest events of its kind in the US and one of the most influential film festivals in the world.

Balticon
Fri 23 May 2008 - Mon 26 May 2008
Baltimore
Balticon is a major event for the Baltimore Science Fiction Society, a literary and educational organisation, dedicated to the promotion of, and an appreciation for, science fiction in all of its many forms.

Vandalia Gathering
Fri 23 May 2008 - Sun 25 May 2008
Charleston
Drawing on the rich traditions of West Virginian folklife, the annual Vandalia Gathering puts on a great programme of events that includes music, storytelling, cultural displays, craft exhibitions and food and drink stalls.

ArtFest
Fri 23 May 2008 - Sun 25 May 2008
Dallas
Addison Circle Park is transformed into a carnival of colour and creativity at the annual Artfest event.

Northwest Folklife Festival
Fri 23 May 2008 - Mon 26 May 2008
Seattle
The Northwest Folklife Festival is an ethnic extravaganza which embraces music and dance performances, visual arts and folklore exhibits, hands-on ethnic children's activities, symposia, dance and music workshops, crafts, food, imported goods, and demonstrations of traditional arts.

Memorial Day Street Fair
Sat 24 May 2008 - Sun 25 May 2008
Los Angeles
Memorial Day is a day of remembrance honouring Americans who died serving the nation during war and is now celebrated throughout the country on the last Monday in May.

Decatur Arts Festival
Sat 24 May 2008 - Sun 25 May 2008
Decatur
The Decatur Arts Festival is a great community event that offers something for visitors of all ages.

Carnaval San Francisco
Sat 24 May 2008 - Sun 25 May 2008
San Francisco
The fabulously flamboyant Carnaval San Francisco is one of the highlights of the social calendar which sees the streets fill with the colour, clamour and excitement of the event.

Ninth Avenue International Food Festival
Sat 24 May 2008 - Sun 25 May 2008
New York City
Over two days, the streets come alive with the scents of delicious food during the annual Ninth Avenue International Food Festival.

Atlanta Jazz Festival
Sat 24 May 2008 - Mon 26 May 2008
Atlanta
One of the largest free jazz events in the USA, the Atlanta Jazz Festival features great legends from the music scene as well as introducing new talent from many countries.

Ethnic Food Fair
Sun 25 May 2008
San Diego
Held at the International Cottages at Balboa Park, this annual event is a great showcase of culinary treats from around the world.

Gem and Jewelry Trade Show
Mon 26 May 2008 - Thu 29 May 2008
Las Vegas
Las Vegas glitters with even more gold and jewellery than usual when the annual Gem and Jewelry Trade Show comes to town.

Memorial Day
Mon 26 May 2008
San Francisco
Although Memorial Day itself falls on 30 May, it is always observed on the last Monday in May and is a national holiday.

Memorial Day Ceremonies
Mon 26 May 2008
Washington
The day is used to honour those who died in the war and features over 40 brass bands and marching groups who take part in the parade.

In The Water Boat Show – Dana Point Harbor
Thu 29 May 2008 - Sun 01 Jun 2008
Dana Point
Located in one of the most attractive areas along the California coast, Dana Point Harbor is one of the most spectacular marinas from San Francisco to the Mexican Border.

Memphis Italian Festival
Thu 29 May 2008 - Sat 31 May 2008
Memphis
Visitors flock to Marquette Park in East Memphis for the annual Memphis Italian Festival.

Chicago Gospel Music Festival
Fri 30 May 2008 - Sun 01 Jun 2008
Chicago
One of the largest free outdoor events of its kind, the three-day festival offers local, national and international Gospel entertainment across three stages in the city’s Millennium Park.

Charles Village Celebration Weekend
Sat 31 May 2008 - Sun 01 Jun 2008
Baltimore
The Charles Village Celebration Weekend brings the community together for two days of fun and games whilst raising money for local community projects and charitable organisations.

Lexington Avenue Spring Festival
Sat 31 May 2008
New York City
With spring the street fairs return to the streets of New York City after a long, cold winter.

AiA Sandcastle Competition
Sat 31 May 2008
Galveston
Each year sand sculptors from all over the world travel to East Beach in Galvaston for the AiA Sandcastle Competition.

North End Italian Feast Days
Sun 01 Jun 2008 - Sun 31 Aug 2008
Boston
Boston’s Italian district is known as the North End and each summer it brings a little tradition from the mother country to the city.

Grant Park Music Festival
Sun 01 Jun 2008 - Sun 31 Aug 2008 Date to be confirmed
Chicago
A free outdoor classical music festival, the Grant Park Music Festival was founded in 1935 to allow people of all backgrounds access to orchestral performances.

Coca Cola Summer Film Festival
Sun 01 Jun 2008 - Sun 31 Aug 2008 Date to be confirmed
Atlanta
Each summer the Fox Theatre in downtown Atlanta hosts the Coca Cola Summer Film Festival.

Harborplace and The Gallery Summer Concert Series
Sun 01 Jun 2008 - Tue 30 Sep 2008
Baltimore
The popular Harborplace Summer Concert Series is a programme of free musical performances.

Carson City Rendezvous
Sun 01 Jun 2008 - Mon 30 Jun 2008 Date to be confirmed
Carson City
The old days of the pioneers are brought to life during this three-day festival.

SummerStage
Sun 01 Jun 2008 - Sun 31 Aug 2008 Date to be confirmed
New York City
In keeping with SummerStage tradition, each new season includes a wide range of music, dance, film and spoken word, by well-known and emerging artists.

Porsche Parade
Sun 01 Jun 2008 - Thu 31 Jul 2008 Date to be confirmed
Charlotte
Held every two years, the festival pays homage to that icon of cool and affluence – the Porsche car.

FedEx St Jude Classic (golf)
Mon 02 Jun 2008 - Sun 08 Jun 2008
Memphis
Top class golf players from all over the world travel to Memphis for this annual, week-long tournament.

Atlanta Pride
Wed 04 Jun 2008 - Fri 06 Jun 2008
Atlanta
Each year an estimated 300,000 revellers fill the streets of Atlanta for the loudest and brashest party of the year, the Atlanta Pride.

CMA Music Festival
Thu 05 Jun 2008 - Sun 08 Jun 2008
Nashville
First held back in 1972, the annual CMA Music Festival continues to attract country music fans from all over the world.

Chicago Blues Festival
Thu 05 Jun 2008 - Sun 08 Jun 2008
Chicago
Billed as the 'largest outdoor, free admission blues festival in the world', this popular four-day event showcases international, national and local Chicago artists on five main stages as well as in a host of other, smaller venues.

Rittenhouse Square Fine Art Show
Fri 06 Jun 2008 - Sun 08 Jun 2008
Philadelphia
First held back in 1932 by a group of art students from Philadelphia, the Rittenhouse Square Fine Art Show has become one of the biggest and best outdoor art shows in the US.

Star Wars Weekends
Fri 06 Jun 2008 - Sun 29 Jun 2008
Orlando
An absolute must for all fans of the Star Wars movies, these fun weekends at the Disney-MGM Studios theme park are devoted to the much-loved sci-fi film franchise.

Boston International Film Festival
Fri 06 Jun 2008 - Sat 14 Jun 2008
Boston
Created to celebrate and honour the work of filmmakers from all over the world, the annual Boston International Film Festival provides an arena for screening, championing and discussing a range of works by independent filmmakers.

Pan-Pacific Festival
Fri 06 Jun 2008 - Sun 08 Jun 2008
Honolulu
A fusion of Pan-Pacific cultures, this popular festival is a weekend of events ranging from a block party to a fun half marathon.

Detroit Festival of the Arts
Fri 06 Jun 2008 - Sun 08 Jun 2008
Detroit
Detroit’s artistic community comes out in force for the annual Detroit Festival of the Arts.

Capital Pride
Fri 06 Jun 2008 - Sun 15 Jun 2008
Washington
The biggest celebration of gay and lesbian identities in the city, the annual Capital Pride is a week-long event that is open to everyone.

Capitol Hill People's Fair
Sat 07 Jun 2008 - Sun 08 Jun 2008
Denver
A celebration of Denver’s diverse urban community, the Capitol Hill People's Fair is a great weekend of entertainment with events, activities and attractions suitable for all the family.

Elfreth's Alley Fete Day
Sat 07 Jun 2008
Philadelphia
Built in the early 1700s, Elfreth Alley in Philadelphia is a National Historic Landmark and the nation's oldest residential street.

Jimmy Fund Scooper Bowl
Tue 10 Jun 2008 - Thu 12 Jun 2008
Boston
Held in Boston’s City Hall Plaza, the Jimmy Fund Scooper Bowl is the nation's largest all-you-can-eat ice cream festival.

Republic of Texas (ROT) Biker Rally
Thu 12 Jun 2008 - Sun 15 Jun 2008
Austin
Bikes, beer and live music are the main attractions at the annual Republic of Texas (ROT) Biker Rally.

CineVegas International Film Festival
Thu 12 Jun 2008 - Sat 21 Jun 2008
Las Vegas
Held at the glamorous Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas, the annual CineVegas International Film Festival is a popular event that attracts some of the biggest names in the business.

Tour de Nez
Fri 13 Jun 2008 - Mon 16 Jun 2008
Reno
Raced over three days, the Tour de Nez is one of the most popular cycling events in the country and is famed for its lively entertainment programme that includes everything from live music and belly dancers to film screenings and art exhibitions.

Huck Finn's Country and Bluegrass Jubilee
Fri 13 Jun 2008 - Sun 15 Jun 2008
California
The turn-of-the-century river festival promises 30 hours of country and bluegrass music.

American Artisan Festival
Fri 13 Jun 2008 - Sun 15 Jun 2008
Nashville
Usually held over the Father’s Day weekend at Centennial Park, the American Artisan Festival showcases the work of over 150 artists from across the region.

North Beach Festival
Sat 14 Jun 2008 - Sun 15 Jun 2008
San Francisco
The annual North Beach Festival is an urban street fair that each year attracts an estimated 150,000 visitors and is held over the Father’s Day weekend.

Stern Grove Festival
Sun 15 Jun 2008 - Sun 31 Aug 2008
San Francisco
Each Sunday afternoon throughout the summer, locals and visitors alike are invited to Sigmund Stern Grove to enjoy a programme of free musical performances and other theatrical shows.

DuPont Clifford Brown Jazz Festival
Sun 15 Jun 2008 - Sun 22 Jun 2008
Delaware
The annual festival is the largest free outdoor jazz festival on the East Coast.

Reno Rodeo
Thu 19 Jun 2008 - Sat 28 Jun 2008
Reno
Beginning with a colourful rodeo carnival on the opening day, the Reno Rodeo is a week-long event that features all the classic rodeo attractions.

Telluride Bluegrass Festival
Thu 19 Jun 2008 - Sun 22 Jun 2008
Telluride
Over a long weekend each June, music fans flock to the picturesque festival site in Telluride, Colorado to enjoy a full programme of blues and rock music.

Mountain Top Rodeo
Fri 20 Jun 2008
Dahlonega
Featuring all the favourite classic rodeo events, the annual Mountain Top Rodeo promises a weekend of high octane entertainment for all the family.

Jefferson Street Jazz and Blues Festival
Fri 20 Jun 2008 - Sat 21 Jun 2008
Nashville
Located in the heart of Nashville, Jefferson Street is synonymous with good music with the likes of Little Richard, Jimi Hendrix, Ray Charles, Fats Domino and Memphis Slim all having played in its clubs over the years.

Latino Fest
Sat 21 Jun 2008 - Sun 22 Jun 2008
Baltimore
LatinoFest, first held in 1980, is an annual celebration of Hispanic culture, music, food and art that's held in the heart of Baltimore’s Latino community, Patterson Park.

National Barbecue Battle
Sat 21 Jun 2008 - Sun 22 Jun 2008
Washington
The National Barbecue Battle sees teams and restaurants compete against one another in a bid to be crowned the winners of the competition.

Mermaid Parade
Sat 21 Jun 2008
Coney Island
Founded in 1983 by Coney Island USA, the Mermaid Parade celebrates the sand, sea, salt air and the beginning of summer.

Fremont Fair
Sat 21 Jun 2008 - Sun 22 Jun 2008
Seattle
Each year the community of Fremont comes together to celebrate the Summer Solstice with a weekend programme of free events and entertainment.

LGBT Pride Week
Sun 22 Jun 2008 - Sun 29 Jun 2008
New York City
New York City’s gay, lesbian and transgender communities come together each year for a week-long party in commemoration of the Stonewall Riots of 1969.

Rodeo de Santa Fe
Wed 25 Jun 2008 - Sat 28 Jun 2008
Santa Fe
Billed as one of the top 100 rodeo events in the US, the annual Rodeo de Santa Fe promises visitors a fun-packed weekend of entertainment and excitement.

Smithsonian Folklife Festival
Wed 25 Jun 2008 - Sun 29 Jun 2008
Washington
Attracting over one million visitors each year, this free event is a celebration of folklife and includes a packed programme of music, song, dance, theatre, art and crafts, cooking demonstrations, storytelling and discussion sessions.

Bravo! Vail Valley Music Festival
Wed 25 Jun 2008 - Sat 02 Aug 2008
Vail
First introduced in 1987, Bravo! Vail Valley Music Festival was one of the first concerts where the musicians outnumbered the audience.

Truck Show
Thu 26 Jun 2008 - Sat 28 Jun 2008
Las Vegas
Anything and everything you could possibly want to know about trucks is on display under the one roof of the Las Vegas Convention Centre at the annual Truck Show.

Truck Show
Thu 26 Jun 2008 - Sat 28 Jun 2008
Las Vegas
Anything and everything you could possibly want to know about trucks is on display under the one roof of the Las Vegas Convention Centre at the annual Truck Show.

Bluegrass Nights at the Ryman
Thu 26 Jun 2008 - Thu 31 Jul 2008
Nashville
Ever since the 21-year-old Earl Scruggs took to the stage on the Ryman in 1945 to play the five-string banjo with a three-finger roll, it’s been thought of as the birthplace of bluegrass music.

Boston Mills Artfest
Fri 27 Jun 2008 - Mon 28 Jul 2008
Cleveland
Taking place in a scenic mountain town and popular ski resort in the stunning Cuyahoga Valley National Park, the annual Artfest brings together a selection of the country’s best artists and their work.

Taste of Chicago
Fri 27 Jun 2008 - Sun 06 Jul 2008
Chicago
Coinciding with US Independence Day celebrations, the annual Taste of Chicago is a celebration of the city’s eclectic food culture.

Little Bighorn Days
Fri 27 Jun 2008 - Sun 29 Jun 2008
Hardin
The Battle of the Little Bighorn or 'Custer’s Last Stand' is one of the most famous battles between the US Army and the Native Americans.

La Jolla Festival of the Arts and Food Faire
Sat 28 Jun 2008 - Sun 29 Jun 2008
San Diego
This highly regarded art and food fair regularly brings crowds of more than 15,000 visitors to the University Campus.

Boston Harborfest
Sat 28 Jun 2008 - Fri 04 Jul 2008
Boston
Ending with a bang to coincide with the US’s Fourth of July celebrations, Boston Harborfest is a seven-day celebration that gets the city in the party spirit with a packed programme of entertainment.

San Francisco LGBT Pride
Sat 28 Jun 2008 - Sun 29 Jun 2008
San Francisco
One of the biggest, brashest and consequently best-known pride events in the world, it’s fair to say that no one knows how to party quite like San Francisco’s gay and lesbian community does.

Dances with Films
Tue 01 Jul 2008 - Thu 31 Jul 2008 Date to be confirmed
Los Angeles
Dances with Films celebrates the best that the independent film scene has to offer.

San Diego Surf Cup
Tue 01 Jul 2008 - Sun 31 Aug 2008 Date to be confirmed
San Diego
A popular youth football tournament, the annual San Diego Surf Cup is a series of soccer tournaments aimed at promoting the sport in the US.

Las Vegas Summer Classic (basketball)
Tue 01 Jul 2008 - Thu 31 Jul 2008 Date to be confirmed
Las Vegas
Taking place each summer, the National Youth Basketball Championships in Las Vegas is one of the biggest youth tournaments of its kind in the region.

MasterCraft Pro Wakeboard Tour
Tue 01 Jul 2008 - Thu 31 Jul 2008 Date to be confirmed
Portland
A relatively new addition to the watersports scene, wakeboarding is a hybrid sport that’s borrowed aspects of water skiing, snowboarding and surfing and made them its own.

Great Eldorado BBQ, Brews and Blues Festival
Tue 01 Jul 2008 - Thu 31 Jul 2008 Date to be confirmed
Reno
Microbreweries from all over the world set up shop on Reno’s Virginia Street just outside the Eldorado for the annual Great Eldorado BBQ, Brews and Blues Festival.

Festival of the Bells
Tue 01 Jul 2008 - Thu 31 Jul 2008 Date to be confirmed
San Diego
Mission San Diego de Alcala is California's oldest church and it commemorates its founding with music, dance, games and food.

New York Restaurant Week
Tue 01 Jul 2008 - Thu 31 Jul 2008 Date to be confirmed
New York City
Held twice a year in January and July, visitors and locals alike can enjoy special menus prepared by some of the Big Apple’s finest restaurants.

Cleveland's Irish Cultural Festival
Tue 01 Jul 2008 - Thu 31 Jul 2008 Date to be confirmed
Cleveland
Celebrating Cleveland’s rich Irish heritage, this annual festival offers visitors a fantastic weekend of activities and entertainment – all with a sentimental nod to the fair Emerald Isle.

Houston Shakespeare Festival
Tue 01 Jul 2008 - Sun 31 Aug 2008 Date to be confirmed
Houston
The annual Houston Shakespeare Festival is a unique collaboration between the city of Houston and its university.

International Mango Festival
Tue 01 Jul 2008 - Thu 31 Jul 2008 Date to be confirmed
Miami
One of Miami’s more unusual events, the International Mango Festival celebrates the many wonders of this humble fruit.

Mighty Mud Mania
Tue 01 Jul 2008 - Sun 31 Aug 2008 Date to be confirmed
Scottsdale
Mighty Mud Mania began back in 1976 as a promotional stunt for Johnson's Wax spray pre-wash.

Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial
Tue 01 Jul 2008 - Thu 31 Jul 2008 Date to be confirmed
Gallup
More than 30 tribes from throughout the United States travel to Gallup in New Mexico for the annual Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial.

Mighty Mud Mania
Tue 01 Jul 2008 - Sun 31 Aug 2008 Date to be confirmed
Scottsdale
Mighty Mud Mania began back in 1976 as a promotional stunt for Johnson's Wax spray pre-wash.

Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial
Tue 01 Jul 2008 - Thu 31 Jul 2008 Date to be confirmed
Gallup
More than 30 tribes from throughout the United States travel to Gallup in New Mexico for the annual Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial.

Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival
Tue 01 Jul 2008 - Sun 31 Aug 2008 Date to be confirmed
Lake Tahoe
Performed on the banks of the magnificent Lake Tahoe in Nevada, each year Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival stages a selection of the great Bard’s best-loved works.

Cherry Creek Arts Festival
Tue 01 Jul 2008 - Thu 31 Jul 2008 Date to be confirmed
Denver
Including an artistic mix of exhibitions, demonstrations and workshops, the annual Cherry Creek Arts Festival sees over 200 artists descend on Denver to showcase their works.

San Diego Lesbian and Gay Pride Parade and Festival
Tue 01 Jul 2008 - Thu 31 Jul 2008 Date to be confirmed
San Diego
San Diego Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Pride is one of the largest grassroots organisations in San Diego producing an annual rally, parade and festival.

Santa Fe International Folk Art Market
Tue 01 Jul 2008 - Thu 31 Jul 2008 Date to be confirmed
Santa Fe
Artists from all over the world are invited to Santa Fe for the largest international folk art market in the country.

Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival
Tue 01 Jul 2008 - Sun 31 Aug 2008 Date to be confirmed
Santa Fe
Visitors can enjoy a great programme of musical performances during the six-week run of the Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival.

US Open Sandcastle Competition
Tue 01 Jul 2008 - Thu 31 Jul 2008 Date to be confirmed
San Diego
The US Open Sandcastle Competition is a magical three-day event which showcases some incredible sand sculptures.

Lebowski Fest
Tue 01 Jul 2008 - Thu 31 Jul 2008 Date to be confirmed
Louisville
The Lebowski Fest is a slightly wacky festival celebrating all things Lebowski, and each year it draws fans of the film to Louisville for a weekend during which they can indulge playing unlimited bowling, wearing bad Hawaian shirts, and of course, knocking back white Russians while watching a screening of the Coen's brothers' cult movie “The Big Lebowski” on a huge inflatable screen.

Reno Basque Festival
Tue 01 Jul 2008 - Thu 31 Jul 2008 Date to be confirmed
Reno
Visitors are invited to celebrate Reno’s Basque heritage at this fun festival.

Hispanic Heritage Festival
Tue 01 Jul 2008 - Sun 30 Nov 2008 Date to be confirmed
Miami
Made up of a number of events that take place over several months, the festival celebrates the contributions made by Hispanics to the cultural and economic development of the US and aims to share Hispanic traditions and folklore with residents and visitors to Miami.

Georgia Mountain Fair
Tue 01 Jul 2008 - Thu 31 Jul 2008 Date to be confirmed
Hiawassee
Over 12 days in July, the Georgia Mountain Fair welcomes visitors and locals to join in with a series of fun events ranging from a colourful street parade to a great line-up of live music.

Rock Around the Block
Tue 01 Jul 2008 - Thu 31 Jul 2008 Date to be confirmed
Chicago
One of the most popular musical events in Chicago, each year about 50,000 people turn up to enjoy great art, food, family activities and music.

Boston Chowderfest
Tue 01 Jul 2008 - Thu 31 Jul 2008 Date to be confirmed
Boston
Competing for the coveted crown of “Boston’s Best Chowder”, restaurants serve an estimated 7,570 litres (2,000 gallons) of New England’s famed clam chowder to the thousands of visitors who attend the event each year.

World Eskimo-Indian Olympics
Tue 01 Jul 2008 - Thu 31 Jul 2008 Date to be confirmed
Fairbanks
Attracting natives from Alaska, the Pacific Northwest and Canada, the World Eskimo-Indian Olympics is a celebration of the indigenous cultures and traditions.

Venetian Night
Tue 01 Jul 2008 - Thu 31 Jul 2008 Date to be confirmed
Chicago
Held each summer in late July, Venetian Night takes place on Chicago’s beautiful lakefront.

San Francisco Marathon
Tue 01 Jul 2008 - Thu 31 Jul 2008 Date to be confirmed
San Francisco
The 42km (26.2 miles) marathon takes in many of the most famous sites and streets of San Francisco.

Acura Tennis Classic
Tue 01 Jul 2008 - Sun 31 Aug 2008 Date to be confirmed
San Diego
A Tier One event on the Sony Ericsson WTA tour, the Acura Classic is a ladies’ tennis tournament which is part of the US Open series.

Lotus Festival
Tue 01 Jul 2008 - Thu 31 Jul 2008 Date to be confirmed
Los Angeles
This weekend event celebrates the cultures and traditions of Asian and Pacific Islander communities in Southern California and takes place during the anticipated blooming of the lotus flower.

Outfest - LA Gay and Lesbian Film Festival
Tue 01 Jul 2008 - Thu 31 Jul 2008 Date to be confirmed
Los Angeles
The Outfest aims to protect gay people’s past, showcase their present, and nurture their future by fostering artistic expressions of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) culture and celebrating its transformative social impact on the world.

Ogden Pioneer Days
Tue 01 Jul 2008 - Thu 31 Jul 2008 Date to be confirmed
Ogden
What began as a three-day event in 1934 has grown into one of the premier celebrations in Utah and the Intermountain West.

Artown
Tue 01 Jul 2008 - Thu 31 Jul 2008
Reno
One of the largest and most inclusive arts and culture events in the country, the annual Artown festival aims to promote the weird, wonderful and more unusual aspects of the art scene.

Cheyenne Frontier Days
Tue 01 Jul 2008 - Tue 29 Jul 2008 Date to be confirmed
Cheyenne
Held during the last full week of July, Cheyenne Frontier Days is billed as the World’s largest outdoor rodeo and western celebration.

Hot August Nights
Tue 01 Jul 2008 - Sun 31 Aug 2008 Date to be confirmed
Reno
Hot August Nights is a festival that celebrates the “happy days” of the baby boomers, providing an opportunity for those who did not experience the 1950s and 60s firsthand to enjoy the era.

Artscape
Tue 01 Jul 2008 - Thu 31 Jul 2008 Date to be confirmed
Baltimore
Featuring over 150 performers from across the country, Artscape is one of the largest arts festivals in the region and features a lively programme that covers visual art, theatre, fashion, film, music, dance and literature.

Bite of Seattle
Tue 01 Jul 2008 - Thu 31 Jul 2008 Date to be confirmed
Seattle
Bite of Seattle is a three-day food festival at the Seattle Center that ranks among the most popular of the city’s summer events.

Minneapolis Aquatennial
Tue 01 Jul 2008 - Thu 31 Jul 2008 Date to be confirmed
Minneapolis
Celebrated in locations and venues across the city, the Minneapolis Aquatennial is the largest parade and free outdoor concert in Minnesota.

AFL Arena Bowl Championships
Tue 01 Jul 2008 - Thu 31 Jul 2008 Date to be confirmed
Las Vegas
American football is one of the US’s most popular sports and the annual AFL Arena Bowl Championships is an eagerly anticipated weekend of football that attracts thousands of fans each year.

AutoZone Red, White and Blue Celebration
Thu 03 Jul 2008 Date to be confirmed
Memphis
Memphis celebrates Black history with festivals and events for the whole family.

Taste of Minnesota
Thu 03 Jul 2008 - Sun 06 Jul 2008
Minneapolis
Although the name indicates food to be the main draw at Taste of Minnesota, it’s in fact music that’s the major attraction at this popular festival.

Boston Pops Esplanade Concerts
Thu 03 Jul 2008 - Fri 04 Jul 2008
Boston
On 11 July, 1885, a large and fashionable crowd showed up at the Boston Music Hall for the first ever Promenade Concert.

Hopi Festival of Arts and Culture
Fri 04 Jul 2008 - Sun 06 Jul 2008
Flagstaff
The popular Hopi Festival of Arts and Culture is a great place to experience Native American traditions.

Fourth of July Celebrations
Fri 04 Jul 2008
San Diego
Many of San Diego’s Independence Day celebrations take place on Coronado Island kicking off with the 15km (9 miles) marathon and 5km (3 miles) walk beginning at Tidelands Park.

Fourth of July Celebrations
Fri 04 Jul 2008
Baltimore
On 4 July, 1776, America claimed its independence from Britain.

Independence Day
Fri 04 Jul 2008
Orlando
Orlando joins in with the rest of the country in the popular Independence Day celebrations.

Tacoma Freedom Fair
Fri 04 Jul 2008
Tacoma
Set along a 3km (2 miles) stretch of the Ruston Way waterfront, the Tacoma Freedom Fair celebrates American Independence day with wide-ranging programme of events.

Fourth of Jul-Ivar’s
Fri 04 Jul 2008
Seattle
Held at Seattle's Myrtle Edwards Park, the city celebrates American Independence Day with its annual "Fourth of Jul-Ivar's" celebrations.

Independence Day
Fri 04 Jul 2008
Philadelphia
The Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776 in Philadelphia which became the nation's capital from 1790–1800.

Fourth of July Celebrations
Fri 04 Jul 2008
Las Vegas
The Fourth of July Fireworks displays are among the most popular of Las Vegas' many events.

Fourth of July
Fri 04 Jul 2008
Philadelphia
On 4 July 1776, America claimed its independence from Britain.

Fourth of July Celebrations
Fri 04 Jul 2008
United States
On 4 July, 1776, America claimed its independence from Britain.

Fourth of July Celebrations
Fri 04 Jul 2008
New York City
The 4 July is one of the biggest holidays of the year and is celebrated in all manner of ways.

Independence Day Commemorative Events
Fri 04 Jul 2008
Boston
As the city inextricably linked with the start of the American Revolution, Boston takes its independence seriously.

Fourth of July Celebrations
Fri 04 Jul 2008
Los Angeles
On 4 July 1776, America claimed its independence from Britain.

Fourth of July Celebrations
Fri 04 Jul 2008
Houston
On 4 July, 1776, America claimed its independence from Britain.

Fourth of July Celebrations
Fri 04 Jul 2008
Miami
On 4 July 1776, America claimed its independence from Britain.

Fourth of July Celebrations
Fri 04 Jul 2008
Atlanta
On 4 July 1776, America claimed its independence from Britain.

Music City Independence Day Concert Spectacular
Fri 04 Jul 2008
Nashville
Each year the Riverfront Park in Nashville hosts the wonderful Music City 4th of July Concert Spectacular.

Independence Day
Fri 04 Jul 2008
Washington
Although celebrated all over America, the Independence Day celebrations in Washington DC, the nation’s capital, are the biggest and glitziest in the country.

Big Easy
Sat 12 Jul 2008 - Sun 13 Jul 2008 Date to be confirmed
Sparks
The Big Easy is a festival filled with the tastes, sounds and sights of Louisiana and offers visitors a great introduction to the Reno way of life.

Taste3
Thu 17 Jul 2008 - Sat 19 Jul 2008
Napa Valley
TASTE3 brings together more than 40 wine-industry insiders including writers, chefs, winemakers, journalists, artisans and executives.

Days of '47
Thu 24 Jul 2008
Salt Lake City
Pioneer Day is a major state holiday celebrated with a week of activities, including a children's parade, a horse parade and a rodeo.

Caribbean Festival
Fri 01 Aug 2008 - Sun 31 Aug 2008 Date to be confirmed
Philadelphia
The annual Caribbean Festival in Philadelphia takes place at The Great Plaza at Penn’s Landing by the city's waterfront.

Philadelphia Multicultural Arts and Music Extravaganza
Fri 01 Aug 2008 - Sun 31 Aug 2008 Date to be confirmed
Philadelphia
Replacing the African American Cultural Extravaganza, the Philadelphia Multicultural Arts and Music Extravaganza takes place at The Great Plaza at Penn's Landing out by the waterfront in Philadelphia.

Navajo Festival of Arts and Culture
Fri 01 Aug 2008 - Sun 31 Aug 2008 Date to be confirmed
Flagstaff
This event is an authentic presentation of the Navajo Beauty Way philosophy of living in harmony with nature.

American Quilter's Society Quilt Exposition
Fri 01 Aug 2008 - Sun 31 Aug 2008 Date to be confirmed
Nashville
This is one of the big events organised by the American Quilter's Society.

Festival of India
Fri 01 Aug 2008 - Sun 31 Aug 2008 Date to be confirmed
Atlanta
Celebrating Indian culture, this fun festival features a range of activities and exhibitions covering different aspects of Indian beliefs and philosophies such as reincarnation, vegetarianism, transcendental art, and yoga.

Vintage Ohio
Fri 01 Aug 2008 - Sun 31 Aug 2008 Date to be confirmed
Kirtland
Vintage Ohio is the biggest event of the year for the Ohio Wine Producers Association.

Colorado Scottish Festival and Rocky Mountain Highland Games
Fri 01 Aug 2008 - Sun 31 Aug 2008 Date to be confirmed
Denver
Each August, the tradition of Scottish Highland games comes alive for two days at Highlands Heritage Park, just south of Denver.

Miami Spice Restaurant Month
Fri 01 Aug 2008 - Tue 30 Sep 2008 Date to be confirmed
Miami
The Miami Spice Restaurant Month is a mouth-watering event showcasing the very best of Miami cuisine during which restaurants offer specially priced three-course meals featuring dishes created by world-renowned chefs.

Boston Summer Restaurant Week
Fri 01 Aug 2008 - Sun 31 Aug 2008 Date to be confirmed
Boston
Making the Boston summer that little bit extra special is the Boston Summer Restaurant Week in August.

Nashville Shakespeare Festival
Fri 01 Aug 2008 - Tue 30 Sep 2008 Date to be confirmed
Nashville
The Nashville Shakespeare Festival extends an invitation to theatre lovers to bring themselves, a picnic and a blanket to Centennial Park and enjoy the words of William Shakespeare brought to life.

City Park Festival of the Arts
Fri 01 Aug 2008 - Sun 31 Aug 2008 Date to be confirmed
Denver
Usually held on one day in August, the annual City Park Festival of the Arts in Denver is a great community event with entertainment and attractions suitable for visitors of all ages.

World Body Surfing Championships
Fri 01 Aug 2008 - Sun 31 Aug 2008 Date to be confirmed
San Diego
Body surfing is defined as riding waves to shore without a surfboard.

Rockabilly Festival
Fri 01 Aug 2008 - Sun 31 Aug 2008 Date to be confirmed
Jackson
The Rockabilly Festival every year gathers some of the biggest names in rockabilly music in the hometown of Carl Perkins, the founder and father of the genre.

Fisherman’s Feast of Boston
Fri 01 Aug 2008 - Sun 31 Aug 2008 Date to be confirmed
Boston
This is the oldest continuous Italian festival in the North End of Boston.

Dallas Video Festival
Fri 01 Aug 2008 - Sun 31 Aug 2008 Date to be confirmed
Dallas
The Dallas Video Festival specialises in independent, imaginative, provocative and sometimes extremely unusual electronic media.

Vintage Ohio
Fri 01 Aug 2008 - Sun 31 Aug 2008 Date to be confirmed
Kirtland
Vintage Ohio is the biggest event of the year for the Ohio Wine Producers Association.

Colorado Scottish Festival and Rocky Mountain Highland Games
Fri 01 Aug 2008 - Sun 31 Aug 2008 Date to be confirmed
Denver
Each August, the tradition of Scottish Highland games comes alive for two days at Highlands Heritage Park, just south of Denver.

Miami Spice Restaurant Month
Fri 01 Aug 2008 - Tue 30 Sep 2008 Date to be confirmed
Miami
The Miami Spice Restaurant Month is a mouth-watering event showcasing the very best of Miami cuisine during which restaurants offer specially priced three-course meals featuring dishes created by world-renowned chefs.

Santa Fe Indian Market
Fri 01 Aug 2008 - Sun 31 Aug 2008 Date to be confirmed
Santa Fe
Each year the Santa Fe Indian Market includes 1,200 artists from about 100 tribes who show their art work in over 600 booths.

Twins Day Festival
Fri 01 Aug 2008 - Sun 03 Aug 2008 Date to be confirmed
Twinsburg
The Twins Day Festival in Twinsburg, Ohio, first took place in 1976, and it has grown and become more and more famous ever since.

Miami/Bahamas Goombay Festival
Fri 01 Aug 2008 - Sun 31 Aug 2008 Date to be confirmed
Coconut Grove
Miami is a great place for outdoor parties and the Goombay Festival is one of the best, attended by happy crowds of around 100,000.

Reno-Tahoe Open Golf Tournament
Fri 01 Aug 2008 - Sun 31 Aug 2008 Date to be confirmed
Reno
Held at the prestigious Montreux Golf and Country Club, a top field of PGA Tour pros play in this annual golf tournament.

Sturgis Motorcycle Rally
Fri 01 Aug 2008 - Sun 31 Aug 2008 Date to be confirmed
Sturgis
What began as a small-time gathering of motorcycle racers 66 years ago has grown into a hugy rally event.

Uptown Art Fair
Fri 01 Aug 2008 - Sun 03 Aug 2008 Date to be confirmed
Minneapolis
What began in 1963 as a small event with just a handful of artists displaying their pieces on the curb side has grown into one of the biggest events of its kind in the US.

August Moon Festival
Fri 01 Aug 2008 - Sun 31 Aug 2008 Date to be confirmed
Boston
Also known as the “Moon Festival”, The Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival commemorates a 14th-century uprising against the Mongols.

Aloha Festivals
Fri 01 Aug 2008 - Fri 31 Oct 2008 Date to be confirmed
Honolulu
From August to mid-October, the Aloha Festivals take place across six of the islands, celebrating Hawaii's music, dance and history.

Satchmo Summer Fest
Fri 01 Aug 2008 - Sun 31 Aug 2008 Date to be confirmed
New Orleans
New Orleans's native son, Louis "Satchmo" Armstrong, is honoured in true New Orleans fashion at the Satchmo Summer Fest.

Newport Jazz Festival
Fri 01 Aug 2008 - Sun 31 Aug 2008 Date to be confirmed
Newport
One of the longest-running and most influential jazz music events in the US, the annual Newport Jazz Festival take place each August and has been entertaining music lovers for decades.

Satchmo Summer Fest
Fri 01 Aug 2008 - Sun 31 Aug 2008 Date to be confirmed
New Orleans
New Orleans's native son, Louis "Satchmo" Armstrong, is honoured in true New Orleans fashion at the Satchmo Summer Fest.

Newport Jazz Festival
Fri 01 Aug 2008 - Sun 31 Aug 2008 Date to be confirmed
Newport
One of the longest-running and most influential jazz music events in the US, the annual Newport Jazz Festival take place each August and has been entertaining music lovers for decades.

Street Scene
Fri 01 Aug 2008 - Sun 31 Aug 2008 Date to be confirmed
San Diego
San Diego's Street Scene is California's largest, most diverse music and urban food festival.

Chicago Air and Water Show
Fri 01 Aug 2008 - Sun 31 Aug 2008 Date to be confirmed
Chicago
The Chicago Air and Water Show is the largest free show of its kind in the United States, attracting some 2 million spectators to the Lake Michigan shoreline, with North Avenue Beach as the focal point.

Elvis Week
Sat 09 Aug 2008 - Sun 17 Aug 2008 Date to be confirmed
Memphis
Each August, thousands of Elvis fans flood into the city of Memphis to pay homage and to celebrate the singing legend's life and work.

Michigan State Fair
Wed 20 Aug 2008 - Mon 01 Sep 2008 Date to be confirmed
Detroit
One of the biggest shows in the state, the annual Michigan State Fair is a wondrous show with events and attractions for visitors of all ages.

Minnesota State Fair
Thu 21 Aug 2008 - Mon 01 Sep 2008 Date to be confirmed
Minneapolis
One of the largest livestock exhibitions in the US, the annual Minnesota State Fair is a popular event that includes livestock competitions, stalls, exhibitions and a lively entertainment programme.

Maryland State Fair
Fri 22 Aug 2008 - Mon 01 Sep 2008 Date to be confirmed
Timonium
The annual Maryland State Fair is one of the biggest events in the region that each year attracts upwards of half a million visitors over its 11-day run.

Burning Man
Mon 25 Aug 2008 - Mon 01 Sep 2008
Nevada
Burning Man takes place on the vast, flat plains of the Nevada desert.

Best in the West Nugget Rib Cook-Off
Wed 27 Aug 2008 - Mon 01 Sep 2008 Date to be confirmed
Reno
The annual Best in the West Nugget Rib Cook-off is a great gastronomic feast that features cookers and cooking teams from all across the country.

Taste of Cleveland
Fri 29 Aug 2008 - Mon 01 Sep 2008 Date to be confirmed
Cleveland
An exciting culinary event featuring cuisine from around the globe, Taste of Cleveland has something to please even the most discerning palate.

Great Reno Balloon Race
Fri 29 Aug 2008 - Mon 01 Sep 2008 Date to be confirmed
Reno
The annual Great Reno Balloon Race is a free event that attracts ballooning enthusiasts from across the state.

Bumbershoot Festival
Fri 29 Aug 2008 - Mon 01 Sep 2008 Date to be confirmed
Seattle
Held annually over the Labor Day Weekend, the Bumbershoot Festival first took place in the 1970s and has become one of the biggest and best-loved festivals in Seattle’s summer calendar.

Saint Anthony's Feast
Fri 29 Aug 2008 - Mon 01 Sep 2008 Date to be confirmed
Boston
Saint Anthony's Feast is the largest Italian religious festival in New England.

A Taste of Colorado
Fri 29 Aug 2008 - Mon 01 Sep 2008 Date to be confirmed
Denver
Dating back to 1895 and originally known as the Festival of Mountain and Plain, A Taste of Colorado is a proud end-of-summer celebration of the Denver region's community spirit.

Detroit International Jazz Festival
Fri 29 Aug 2008 - Mon 01 Sep 2008
Detroit
Formerly known as the Detroit-Montreux Jazz Festival until it changed its name in 2000, Detroit International Jazz Festival is one of the biggest free music events in North America that each year attracts thousands of music fans.

Rhythm and Roots Festival
Fri 29 Aug 2008 - Mon 01 Sep 2008 Date to be confirmed
Charlestown
People from all over the US gather in Rhode Island every year to listen to a wide spectrum of roots music, dance to a variety of rhythms and savour gourmet food and drink in a truly festive setting.

Philadelphia Live Arts Festival & Philly Fringe
Fri 29 Aug 2008 - Sat 13 Sep 2008 Date to be confirmed
Philadelphia
The popular Philadelphia Live Arts Festival and Philly Fringe kick off on the Labor Day weekend, a packed 16-day programme of performing arts events and entertainment for visitors to enjoy.

Catfish Festival
Fri 29 Aug 2008 - Mon 01 Sep 2008 Date to be confirmed
Kingsland
Held over the Labor Day weekend, Kingland’s Catfish Festival is a fun event for all the family involving parades, live music, arts and crafts booths, a variety of food stalls, an antiques and collectables fair, children’s amusement area, a fun run, a bicycle ride, a classic car and tractor exhibition, and the popular Lions Club's Pancake Breakfast.

Memphis Music and Heritage Festival
Sat 30 Aug 2008 - Mon 01 Sep 2008 Date to be confirmed
Memphis
The culture and history of the South is the constant focus of the annual Memphis Music and Heritage Festival, a multi-stage music and cultural event.

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