Pretty Please with a Cherry on Top

Where/When:   21267 Stevens Creek Blvd.,  Saturday, Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Why Go:  This was mentioned in our kids planner, and warrants notice here, too, because it's the city's premier festival. Cupertino's Cherry Blossm festival is more than a kid's event and we want to be sure you know about it. It's timely now for Cupertino residents to remember our sister city of Toyokawa, Japan, in the aftermath of the earthquake and tsuanmi there. But here at home, street festivals are always fun and always a good way to get out as a family. Wander around see the stands, listen to the music and other entertainment that will take place in the Memorial Park amphitheater. And help out our community non-profits which will also have booths up.

Pricing:  Free (except for what you buy)

Where/When: , 1751 Grand Blvd, Alviso, Saturday, 9:00 a.m.

Why Go: Get out...really!  Get some exercise by walking a terrific trail and meet some new people at the same time. This is the first walk of the season to be featured in the Refuge Rambler Club. So try it out. The walk is self-paced and if you don't feel up to it, you don't have to complete it all. But at least get started. And think about joining the Rambler Club. You can find out about it on the walk. 

Pricing: Free

Where/When:  99 Churchill Ave, Woodside (Woodside High School Performing Arts Center) Friday, 8 p.m.

Why Go: Anne Akiko Meyers is one of the world's top concert violinists and she will be giving a special performance to raise money for Japan disaster relief effrots. She will perform both Japanese and Western classical pieces with pianist Wendy Chen. Hear some great music and support the Japan relief effort.

Pricing: Tickets start at $35; all proceeds go to benefit Japan

Where/When: 4701 Great America Pkwy, Santa Clara, Saturday, 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. 

Why Go:  If you can afford it, this is the way to show your love for your pet and for pets and animals in general. This year's theme is the “Carnival of the Animals” for this black-tie event (but just for the people.) The Fur Ball is probably the only formal event where pets are welcome.  It's an all-out gala event with the emphasis on the humane in our relationship with animals.

Pricing: $250 per person.

Where/When:t Art of Living Center for Yoga and Meditation, 10601 S De Anza Blvd., Thursday, 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.; also Wednesdays at 10 a.m.

Why Go: These sessions give you a first-hand experience with mediation and a chance to try it out for yourself to see if this can work for you as a way to destress.

Pricing:  Free