SF has its fair share of walking tours, but we found a new one. A Chinatown tour of neon signs! If you are thinking its time for a trip to Sonoma, you are right. The Sonoma International Film Festival takes place at the end of the month with films that will touch your heart. Hershey Felder transforms into Debussy – the talented chameleon of a man does it again. I don’t know about you, but I make all the travel arrangements in our house, and I’m planning on hitting up the Travel and Adventure show this weekend for some serious guidance. A fab and fun 3T mini makeover event is coming to NARS in SF – and it’s free.

March 27-31. Sonoma Film Fest

This delightful festival that takes place in the smaller portion of the wine country is always a joy to experience. The screening of the over 100 films, take place in intimate venues within walking distance of Sonoma’s historic plaza. Dedicated to promoting independent film, inspiring filmmakers from across the world and entertaining film lovers. Of course, as it is in a culinary hotbed, you can expect world-class cuisine from local artisans and exceptional wine from Sonoma vintners.

The SIFF Village is a unique gathering spot for filmgoers who can mingle in the hospitality tent, dine at food trucks, laugh and play at nighttime parties and enjoy entertainment throughout the day.

Of particular note this year is a short documentary about three Sonoma residents who try to find their places in a town that has been re-shaped overnight by the 2017 wildfires. Another fitting documentary is “The Best Sommelier in the World” an Argentinian documentary that gives new meaning to the fabulous myths and mysteries of the world of wine. Of course, there are feature narratives, short animation and world cinema as well. Definitely worth a drive to the wine country – oh and don’t forget about the wine! http://www.sonomafilmfest.org

April 3. Hershey Felder

In his one-man biographical musicals, Hershey Felder has brought to life everyone from Beethoven to Irving Berlin, and in Hershey Felder: A Paris Love Story, the virtuoso performer takes audiences on his own personal journey as he explores the life and music of Impressionist composer Claude Debussy. From the sweeping La mer to the evocative L’après-midi d’un faune and the mystical Clair de lune, this soaring tribute will never be forgotten. Experience it at the Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts, courtesy of TheatreWorks Silicon Valley. Get the details.

March 23. Neon: Walking Tour of Chinatown

Here is an opportunity to look at Chinatown in a new “light”. You’ve seen the ducks and chickens in the windows, the kitschy touristy shops and have probably dined on a dumpling or two. Now head on a walk and look up to find forgotten clusters of vintage neon signs in the streets of Chinatown and its back alleys. On this walking adventure backstories are included: you never know what tidbits of history you will discover.

 This tour includes some of the oldest signs in the city and although they may no longer light up, it is like a treasure hunt to discover these beautiful signs hidden in plain sight. The best are saved for last when you will see the glowing signs at the end of the tour at twilight. You will spend an  evening with San Francisco Neon authors and photographers Al Barna and Randall Ann Homan. Tours feature local history with architectural and graphic design insights to San Francisco’s unique legacy of surviving neon signs.

Photography and a lively Q&A are encouraged. Be prepared to walk 2 miles for approximately 1.5 hours, with rest stops.  The tours are weather permitting and you will be informed of any changes. March 23^rd 6:15 – 8 p.m. $25.  Get tickets.

March 23-24. Travel & Adventure Show

Who is tired of always planning the trips in your house? Oh yes, I raised my hand. I miss travel agents – there I said it. So, I’m planning on attending the Travel and Adventure Show at the Santa Clara Convention Center this coming weekend, the 23 – 24^th. I have never been to one before but this one is attractive for so many reasons.

You can explore endless vacation options with over 250 destinations from around the globe. AND, you can plan your trip face-to-face with thousands of travel experts. There are dozens of educational seminars on how to be a savvy traveler and info on how to get around once you reach your destination. You can even immerse yourself in faraway cultures with song and dance on the Global Beats Stage.

There are virtual reality experiences and a green screen photo booth – I guess so you can take a selfie and pretend you are on vacay. In their three theatres, you can hear a variety of speakers including the prolific author Cheryl Strayed and Rick Steves the travel guru. This event will definitely have you heading home to pack your suitcase.  Get the details.

March 31. Join the 3Ts at NARS for a FREE Brunch Beauty Event

Join the Three Tomatoes SF (ME!) for our first joint venture with the NARS Cosmetics Boutique on Fillmore for a lovely morning Sunday March 31st from 11 – 1 p.m. NARS is that magnifique French cosmetics and skin care company whose products I simply adore. This free event will feature limitless champagne; delicious light bites and express make up applications for all who attend. There may be a gift bag in your future as well. Attendance is very limited, so please RSVP, ASAP. And did I mention it’s FREE! After we get glammed up we can stroll Fillmore Street, shop and brunch. Can’t think of a better way to spend a Sunday. See you there! 2050
Fillmore Street San Francisco.  RSVP to reserve your spot.