MARCH 23-27
NEW ORLEANS
Tennessee Williams/New Orleans Literary Festival: After the streets are cleaned from Mardi Gras, the city will be visited by bookworms and aspiring writers. Some festival events are already sold out (there’s a waiting list for the March 26 “Dinner With Tennessee Williams,’’ which we assume involves an impersonator), but panel discussions about everything from memoirs to bedtime stories are still open. Ticket packages and locations vary. 800-990-3378, www.tennesseewilliams.net
MARCH 4-13
TAHOE CITY, Calif.
North Lake Tahoe SnowFest: We’ve been having a “snow fest’’ here in New England, but the one in California looks like more fun. No shoveling is required at this party, which includes ’80s dance nights, a parade, an ice cream eating contest, a rib-fest, “bar olympics,’’ and a snow sculpting contest. The winter-fun extravaganza is really just another way to get people to ski at the height of the season, so if you were thinking about traveling to Tahoe for the slopes, this should clinch your decision. Locations and prices vary, but many are free. 530-583-7167, www.tahoesnowfestival.com
MARCH 3-5
SANIBEL ISLAND, Fla.
74th Annual Sanibel Shell Fair and Show: This is a serious shell show — meaning, youwill see beach jewels here that are not common on New England shores. There are competitions for shellers who show up to participate, as well as shell-watching activities for spectators. We hear that some enthusiasts dress up like shells for the event. Exactly how does one make themselves look like a conch? This is the place to find out. Admission $3. 239-472-2155, www.sanibelcommunityhouse.net
PLAN AHEAD
MAY 21
FARMINGTON, Minn.
Minnesota Soybean Festival: This one has “learning vacation’’ written all over it. Not only will you be able to eat a range of soy products, you will learn about soy farming, green farming, sustainable foods, and agriculture, in general. You can take a break from the instructional stuff with tractor rides, music, and games. A full schedule of entertainment will be released soon. 888-392-5836, www.mnsoybeanfestival.comMEREDITH GOLDSTEIN
Events are sometimes canceled, rescheduled, or sold out; check online. Meredith Goldstein can be reached at mgoldstein@globe.com.
