TopFive
Weekend events
1 FIND FRIGHTENING FUN AT THE WICKED WINE STROLL IN DOWNTOWN LODI
Twice a year, the Lodi District Chamber of Commerce sponsors the Wine Stroll in Downtown Lodi — but in October, things get a little wicked.
On Saturday evening, more than 20 wineries will pair up with Downtown merchants to offer wine tasting, hors d’oeuvres and special sales. Guests are encouraged to wear their creepiest Halloween costumes and enter the costume contest. There will also be live entertainment and photo booths where guests can take selfies.
Cost to attend is $30 in advance or $40 at the stroll, for guests 21 and older only. Join the fun from 6 to 9 p.m. Saturday in Downtown Lodi. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 209367-7840 or visit www.lodichamber.com.
2 Raise money for the library at the Chili Cookoff and Car Show
The biggest chili cookoff in California — and the CASI California State Championship — returns to Woodbridge with contests to find the best salsa, guacamole and — of course — Texas-style chili.
The top three chili chefs from California will earn an automatic spot to compete in the Terlingua International Chili Championship in 2018. Chefs will also compete to be named the People’s Choice, and for a Best Showmanship award.
Proceeds will benefit the Lodi Public Library Foundation. Admission is free, and chili tasting kits are $3. The Chili Cookoff and Car Show runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Woodbridge by Mondavi, 5950 E. Woodbridge Road, Acampo. For more information, call 209-365-8139 or visit www.woodbridgewines.com.
3 The Tommy Dorsey Orchestra will swing at the Square
The legendary big band will offer up danceworthy beats and sentimental favorites like “Boogie Woogie,” “I’ll Never Smile Again,” “Song of India” and “The Music Goes ‘Round and Around.”
Now led by Terry Myers, the band continues to feature expert instrumentalists and vocalists in the tradition of Frank Sinatra, who got his start with Dorsey’s band.
Tickets range from $32.50 to $42.50. The concert will swing at Hutchins Street Square from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday — 125 S. Hutchins St., Lodi. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 209-3335550 or visit www.hutchinsstreetsquare.com.
4 Hats, Heels & Harvest Luncheon for Hospice
The Hats, Heels & Harvest Luncheon will celebrate the bountiful harvest in a sunny courtyard at Vinewood Community Church.
Enjoy a full luncheon, a fashion show presented by Elizabeth of Lodi and Prêt, raffles, a silent auction and more to benefit the Hospice of San Joaquin’s Hospice House. Beautiful hats will be available for purchase.
Cost to attend is $40. The luncheon will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at the church, 1900 W. Vine St., Lodi. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.hospicesj.org.
5 Celebrate the harvest in historic Columbia
The streets of historic Columbia will be filled with pumpkins, food, crafts and more all weekend at the 33rd annual Harvest Festival.
Enjoy demonstrations of skills, music and dancing on the shady streets, sponsored by the Columbia Chamber of Commerce. Dozens of vendors in historical attire will sell handmade items, baked goods, apparel and more.
The festival runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday at Columbia State Historic Park, 11255 Jackson St., Columbia. For more information, call 209-532-6604 or visit www.visitcolumbiacalifornia.com.