SPECIAL EVENTS IN LOS ALTOS

Los Altos Kiwanis Club Pet Parade
Information: 988-9900 or www.losaltoskiwanis.org

A beloved community tradition since 1948, the Los Altos Kiwanis Club Pet Parade is a Spring celebration that attracts tens of thousands of people every year, along with their pets, wagons, bicycles, parents and neighbors. Hundreds of kids and their dogs, cats, horses, chickens – and even worms – participate, as well as youth groups, marching bands and dignitaries in vintage cars. Held annually on the Saturday following Mother’s Day, this free Heritage Event begins on Main Street promptly at 10 a.m.

Rotary Club of Los Altos – Fine Art In the Park
Information: www.rotaryartshow.com

Since 1976, on the Saturday after Mother's Day, and continuing through Sunday, the Rotary Club of Los Altos presents its annual fundraising event "Fine Art in the Park." Open each day from 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m., and located in Lincoln Park just across Foothill Expressway from Main Street, it is considered one of the most prestigious art shows in California. This outdoor gallery features the fine art and quality craftwork of 200 juried artists from across the United States. The festivities include live musical entertainment plus a variety of food and beverage booths. Proceeds from the art show benefit local and international charitable projects.

Downtown Los Altos Arts & Wine Festival
Information: 949-5282 or www.downtownlosaltos.org

The quaint village atmosphere of Downtown Los Altos transforms into a bustling center of activity the second weekend in July with the coming of the annual Arts & Wine Festival on Main and State Streets. From 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. both days, the festival is sponsored by the Los Altos Village Association. Features include the distinctive works of artists and craftspeople, three stages of music, a Family FunZone with a large selection of rides, activities and entertainment for children, gourmet foods from around the world, and an array of local wines. The event, which attracts over 100,000 visitors yearly, supports local arts and entertainment, Downtown Village revitalization, encourages economic prosperity and promotes a community atmosphere unique to the Downtown District. Free admission.

Los Altos Fall Festival
Information: 948-1455 or www.losaltoschamber.org

Celebrate the Fall and our unique community when the Los Altos Chamber of Commerce hosts its annual Fall Festival during the first weekend in October. The festival, held in downtown Los Altos, features over 150 arts and crafts booths, delicious food booths, a classic car show, musical entertainment and local wines and beer. A favorite for young and old alike is the popular Children's Alley with a choo choo train and a variety of activities, games and rides for children.

Los Altos Festival of Lights Parade
Information: www.losaltosparade.org

The holiday season in Los Altos officially begins on the Sunday night following Thanksgiving with the annual Festival of Lights Parade. Generations of Los Altans watch the Parade as it winds through downtown. Colorful floats and costumed storybook characters, illuminated with thousands of tiny lights, join marching bands to welcome the arrival of Santa Claus' sleigh and reindeer.

Originating in 1978, the Festival of Lights Parade Association, a non-profit organization, is made up solely of community volunteers. Annual fundraising events, such as the '50's Family Dance Party "Rock Back the Clock”, held at Rancho Shopping Center in September, the sale of glow-stick necklaces on Parade night, and donations from businesses and the citizens of Los Altos, help cover the cost of staging this exciting event.