The Annual Fall Festival in Columbia, CA

Columbia, just a few miles from Sonora in the California Gold Country, is one of my favorite little towns in the area. I especially enjoy attending, or participating, in their annual harvest festival held every October on the streets of this quaint little community. This is adjacent to the Columbia State Park. The entire town is a reconstruction of a California mining town of about 1849. Docents in period costumes are available to answer questions about the 49er's and the California Gold Rush.

The festival includes a wonderful little craft fair with some terrific gift items. One of my favorite booths is the one where community residents come and spin wool, creating different items while the rest of look on.

They probably have about 30-40 booths, some with woodwork items, pottery or ceramic, fabric items, Christmas ornaments and décor, linens and more. Some people actually complete crafts in their booths. Most of the craftspeople are dressed in period costume which would be outfits from the late 1840's and 50's. I always buy a Christmas gift or two and usually something for me as well.

I don't recall if they had food booths; there is no need because the eateries in this little gem of a town are terrific - from the sandwiches at the saloon, to the charming tearoom where I have lunch when I can. There is Sunday brunch at the hotel on the main street and I'm sure they're open for dinners also. The ice cream shop is about a block away and there are other restaurants within walking distance or a very short drive. There is a little tiny place that reminds me of an old Foster's Freeze - it serves a great breakfast and it's one of my regular stops when I'm in town. And, if you're a licorice aficionado as I am, be sure to visit the candy store - the licorice is excellent and they have a large selection of other candies.

The shops are all open and most of the shopkeepers are dressed in costume - but that's simply "business as usual" in this mining town. You'll want to take a stagecoach ride - there's a fun surprise on every ride. I used to know Russ, the caretaker/trainer of the horses used for the rides, but he relocated out of state several years ago.

You will find interesting things being demonstrated for the kids to do like making candles and similar activities. However, I don't think they have ever allowed anyone to spin the wool - now, I'd like to try that. When I go up there this year, I might ask if I can!

There is an excellent culinary school located here and also a top-notch repertory company. It would be fun to attend a musical or play put on by this group.

Although there are several motels in Sonora, you may prefer to stay right in Columbia itself. Consider the Harlan House Bed and Breakfast on School House Street. The old Victorian building overlooks Columbia State Park and is situated across from the vintage 1860's schoolhouse. It has just four guest rooms. Their Wine Cellar Suite has a private entrance leading into the parlour, complete with cable TV, VCR, and a fireplace. The bathroom has its own jacuzzi spa. A full breakfast for two accompanies every night booked at this establishment. (Visit www.harlan-house.com for more details.)

There is also the Columbia Gem Motel which happens to be owned and run by friends of my parents. It's right in town and all the rooms have two beds. They also have log cabins available for rent for larger parties.. If you're visiting for a special occasion (anniversary, etc.) please let them know so they can plan a surprise for you. (See columbiagem.com for additional information.)

There is an RV park in the area and many campgrounds. Cabins of varying sizes can also be rented in the area.

Once you're done wandering through Columbia and the harvest festival, there is still much to do in the area. There are several golf courses, gold panning, horse back riding, hiking and other activities. Visit downtown Sonora - it's a fun place with unique little shops - as you drive from Columbia back into Sonora stop and check out the Christmas shop - it's on the right side of the highway. Great holiday shop and open all year round. You might see if the Sonora Inn (now run by Days Inn) has live music in their lounge one night when you're in the area. This was always fun to do.

For additional information about the festival and other things to do in the area, visit www.columbiacalifornia.com.

Have a great time.