Tour the hot springs
Take a guided tour of Gilroy Yamato Hot Springs (GYHS) during their “Children Through History” event. Find out about young Florence Roop Mabery who acquired the Hot Springs at age 18. Learn about the lives of children who lived and played at GYHS, such as Norman Kato, former VP of Nob Hill Foods or Mineko Hirasaki Sakai, formerly of Gilroy, now of Morgan Hill. The event includes exhibits from the historical society, games of the past and tips for amateur genealogists. Participate in the “Watercolor Treasure Hunt” drawing designed to help everyone learn about nature in a fun and exciting way. Admission is $15 for adults. Kids under 12 are free. Bring a picnic and carry on the tradition with your children on Saturday, May 28 from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Gilroy Yamato Hot Springs at 13800 Gilroy Hot Springs Road, Gilroy. For directions and more information go to gilroyyamatohotsprings.com.
‘Mary Poppins’
The Banks family is back and as the story goes, things are getting a bit out of control in this magical and memorable production of Mary Poppins. Bring the kids and experience the adventures of Jane and Michael as Mary Poppins teaches the family “anything can happen if you let it.” The performance will include special effects such as flying and the use of sophisticated rear-projection technology. The South Valley Civic Theater brings this musical production to life June 2 through June 25 at the Morgan Hill Community Playhouse located at 17090 Monterey Rd., Morgan Hill. For tickets and show schedule, or to learn about becoming a special sponsor, call (408) 842-7469 or visit svct.org.
Artichoke festival
Get ready to peel back the layers because the Castroville Artichoke Food and Wine Festival is coming to the Monterey County Fair and Event Center. Learn the ABCs of artichokes with a cooking demonstration and enjoy live entertainment on two stages during the festival. Get stuffed at the artichoke-eating contest or enter the Ocean Mist Agro Art contest, featuring three-dimensional fruit and vegetable artwork. Make sure to bring the kids and catch the Wild Things show featuring exotic animals trained to participate in film and television. Check out the arts and crafts booths or relax and meet the vintners, distillers and brewers at the California Wine and Beer Tasting Pavilion. Saturday, June 4 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. or Sunday June 5 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 2004 Fairground Rd., in Monterey. Tickets are $12 for adults and $7 for military, seniors and children 4-12yrs. For a schedule of events, go to artichokefestival.org.
Portuguese festival
The Portuguese Heritage Society of California will host its annual Dia de Portugal Festival to celebrate Portuguese culture. Americans of Portuguese heritage and others from the community will come together to enjoy a day filled with the colors, aromas and sounds of Portugal. Take in the beautiful costumes on display during the traditional parade and savor a variety of Portuguese fare. Admission to the festival is free with a $6 parking fee. Saturday, June 11 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at History Park’s Portuguese Historical Museum at 635 Phelan Ave., in San Jose. For more information, go to diadeportugalca.org
