Ok tomatoes – as I write this I truly hope that “Fogust” is behind us and we can look forward to Indian summer where we can finally break out our summer clothes. To take advantage there are some great outdoor activities ahead. The Giant Race takes place tomorrow; grab your running/walking shoes and head to the ballpark. Our city is full of world-class architecture and this month we celebrate our beauty in this area with a variety of events. Chocolate and wine – Ghiradelli – I need say no more, right? Finally, check out Big Sur’s TreeBones Resort and their unique deluxe accommodation, The Autonomous Tent.

Giant Race at AT&T Park

Running and baseball…. most tomatoes in the bay area enjoy one or the other. This GIANT event is held on Sunday September 11^th at the ballpark.  It’s a half marathon, 10k and 5 k.  You may absolutely walk if your other family members are doing the running thing and you want to go take it slowly and still get some exercise. Or you can hang at the Giant Race EXPO and enjoy live music, entertainment and yum food.

In addition to the usual garlic fry fare, food trucks will be on hand (aren’t they everywhere now?) to fill you up after you burn those calories. Mix and mingle with fellow Giant’s fans and search for Buster as you stroll the field.

Get the details.

Architecture and The City Festival

This month-long celebration features behind the scenes walking tours, films, exhibitions and more. This is ideal for those of us who marvel at the beauty and design of buildings, homes and parks, but have no idea how they are created and what goes into their planning.

In the film series, the joys of play and of playing with architecture and film are featured. Head to the SF Main Public Library on Larkin Street each Wednesday at 6 p.m. this month to see the free films. Then check out the walking tours featured in different areas of the city. Tomorrow Polk Street is the focus where INTERSTICE architects will share their insights into how the alleyways can be better utilized as public open spaces. Get the details.

Ghiradelli Chocolate Festival

Two days of sampling chocolates, sipping wine and watching local chefs perform their magic are headed your way starting tomorrow. Perhaps you might enjoy salads and broth today as you anticipate the deliciousness.  All activities for the weekend are held in Ghirardelli Square and the entire block of Beach Street. Beginning at noon tomorrow, you can head to the Pavilion to taste and sip.

You can watch six contestants gobble up the famous Ghirardelli “Earthquake” ice cream sundae. They have to eat as much as possible, as fast as possible, with no hands. Then there is Chocolate School, learn from the Chocolate Professor just how the cocoa bean turns into that creamy treat so many of us crave. Best news is that 100% of the proceeds benefit project Open Hand. Get the details.

Treebones Resort

Simply hearing someone say Big Sur brings a smile to my face and I start to relax. TreeBones resort offers the finest Glamping experience on the coast where you chill and unwind in exquisite yurts. Staying at this family owned location is truly a gift for your soul. Accommodations include a human nest, campsites, yurts and their newest one of a kind Autonomous Tent.

Resembling a giant cocoon, with it’s own private deck and outdoor fire pit, this solar powered tent is comparable to a 5-star hotel suite. The architect is Harry Gesner whose 1957 Wave House in Malibu provided the inspiration for the Sydney Opera House. You can see the resemblance!  It was imagined as the world’s first portable boutique hotel that can be placed in natural locations.

Get online and book now as the tent is booked for the next 6 months (sorry to get your hopes up). But that’s why I’m telling you now!  Just book it, you won’t be sorry. There is onsite dining, yoga classes and a heated ocean view pool and hot tub. Restoration and relaxation just down the coast! Get more info on this glorious space.