Head coverings (hats) are an often-overlooked fashion item. You can learn so much about them at the Peninsula Museum of Art at a new exhibit, Hat Blocks & Hats – Sculptural Form & Artistic Function. Grab your favorite sun protection head covering (hat!) and check out the World Dog Surfing Championship at Linda Mar Beach. If you prefer a different type of aquatic experience, Berkeley hosts the annual peace lantern event remembering the victims of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, beautiful and moving.  (P.S. Enter our contest to win a Pair Of Bbrazil Athletic/Leisure Leggings

Now thru Aug. 27. Hat Blocks & Hats

I happen to be a tomato who loves a fashionable hat – mostly for sun protection, but I love the fashion aspect as well. The British nailed it! Now at the Peninsula Museum of Art in Burlingame, this exhibit is unlike any hat display I’ve ever seen. You get a glimpse into the hat maker’s workroom and a demonstration of the process of blocking hats – the forming of felt and straw materials over traditional wood hat blocks.

The blocks are “tools of the trade” for the hat maker, but they aren’t just common workroom tools. They are wood forms that are intricately carved and shaped by skilled woodworkers – art in their own right. The artist is Wayne Wichern is a former ballet dancer turned costumier turned millinery designer. His hats are so inventive and can be seen in various museums (including the De Young). I tell you, after visiting this exhibit you will be tempted to start becoming a “hat” person.  Get more details.

Aug. 5. Dog Surfing

Hanzo (L) and Kalani (R) surf in tandem during the 5th Annual Surf Dog competition at Huntington Beach, California, on September 29, 2013. AFP PHOTO/Frederic J. BROWN (Photo credit should read FREDERIC J. BROWN/AFP/Getty Images)

Looking for some fun with (or without) your dog?  Do you think your Golden doodle has the paws to hit the waves? On August 5^th from 9 – 2 at Linda Mar Beach in Pacifica you can join other dog lovers for the World Dog Surfing Championships. Dogs take home the gold in six different divisions including tandem dogs and tandem human/dog!

The rides are judged on the size of the wave, length of the ride, confidence, tricks and more. Dogs are required to wear life jackets of course.  Good news for pet charities as a portion of all proceeds will be donated to various organizations around the bay. The stories of the competitors are fascinating and hilarious. However, this is no joking matter. Last year’s 2^nd place winner, Abbie the pug, has been surfing for 9 years. Once a rescue dog, the confidence of surfing unleashed her true personality. Get more details.

Aug. 6 & 9. Peace Lanterns

Those dates are the 72^nd anniversaries of the world’s first atomic bombings. In Japan and around the world, people will gather in early August to float lanterns in remembrance of the victims of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. At Aquatic Park in Berkeley on Saturday August 5^th, you can witness the beauty and join the movement for peace.

Beginning at 6:30 p.m., join others in decorating shades for floating peace lanterns. As dusk closes in, the lanterns float by with prayers for peace penned on them. Many people simply draw a picture, which has significance to them. This lovely ceremony is free and is staffed by volunteers who are looking to make a difference in the world.  Get the details.