Black Harvest
International Festival
of Film and Video
Honor the history and creativity behind African-American cinema this month. Through Aug. 28, the Siskel Film Center presents the Black Harvest International Festival of Film and Video, where movie buffs revel in an array of African-American independent films, and aspiring directors attend a variety of events, including the panel discussion, “How to Get a Movie Made.” 164 N. State St., Chicago; 312/846-2800, www.siskelfilmcenter.org.

Illinois State Fair
Big acts take the grand stage at the Illinois State Fair this year, Aug. 8–17: pop star Fergie, rock legends ZZ Top, and the Illinois Symphony, to name just a few. The beloved, annual event is also packed with plenty of traditional activities, including livestock shows, championship bull riding, tractor pulls and more. Stop by the Ethnic Village for cuisine with an international flair. 801 Sangamon Ave., Springfield; 217/782-6661, www.agr.state.il.us/isf.

Chicago Air &
Water Show
The sky’s the limit at the Chicago Air & Water Show, Aug. 15–17. The event celebrates its 75th anniversary this year, making it the oldest and largest air exhibition of its kind in the nation. The show includes both military and civilian airplanes, watercraft and performances by the Navy’s Blue Angels and the Army’s parachute team, The Golden Knights. North Ave. Beach, Chicago; 312/744-3315, www.cityofchicago.org.

Whole Foods
Market FlavorFest
You don’t have to go organic — but it certainly wouldn’t hurt to add some healthy flavor to your life. All-natural foods and products abound at the Whole Foods Market FlavorFest, Aug. 23 & 24: a two-day event for those longing to combine a love of eating with a healthy lifestyle. Enjoy cooking demonstrations, lots of free samples, live music and activities for the kids. Wrightwood Park, 2534 N. Greenview Ave., Chicago; www.wholefoodsmarket.com/flavorfest.

Muddy River Run
Motor your way through the last days of summer at the Muddy River Run, Aug. 8–10. Sponsored by the Fort Wayne Street Car Association, the event caters to automobile enthusiasts by displaying a wealth of street rods and muscle cars at the Allen County Fairgrounds. Stick around for music from such appropriately named groups as the Biff & The Cruisers Band. Allen County Fairgrounds, 2726 Carroll Rd., Fort Wayne; 260/637-8370, www.muddyriverrun.com.

Wabash Heritage
Paddle Fest
Row, row, row your boat: The Wabash Heritage Paddle Fest, Aug. 16, offers a perfect outing for the entire family. This 9.7-mile excursion down the Wabash River — beginning in Grayville and ending in New Harmony — is a great way to soak up the August sun. Breakfast and quick-start canoe classes are available the morning of the festival; fun activities await at the finish line. Grayville City Park, Grayville; 812/682-4488, www.usi.edu/extserv/paddlefest/index.asp.

Lakefront
Art Festival
It’s all about the art in the park during the 27th annual Lakefront Art Festival, held on the sparkling shores of Lake Michigan in Michigan City, Aug. 16 & 17. Thousands of visitors travel to Michigan City every year for this festival that features artists exploring every medium, including ceramics, photography, printmaking, sculpture and much more. The Kid’s Art tent keeps wee ones entertained with face painting and funny clowns. Washington Park, 115 Lakeshore Dr., Michigan City; 219/874-4900, www.lubeznikcenter.org.

Swiss
Wine Festival
To appreciate the Swiss Wine Festival in Vevay, Aug. 21–24, you don’t need to be so much a lover of wine as a fan of fun. Oenophiles certainly get their fill with a pavilion that features cheese booths and nearly a dozen area wineries. But those simply in search of an entertaining trip can participate in the grape stomp, peruse arts and crafts or bask in a parade and fireworks. 105 Pike St., Vevay; 800/435-5688, www.swisswinefestival.org.

Surrounded
by Sharks
That infamous film score from “Jaws” still gives us goose bumps. But you can develop an appreciation of the misunderstood underwater creatures at the Newport Aquarium’s “Surrounded by Sharks” ongoing exhibit. Explore different species of sharks and learn about Sweet Pea and Scooter, members of the world’s only Shark Ray breeding program, as they wind their way through 385,000 gallons of water. One Aquarium Way, Newport; 859/261-7444, www.newportaquarium.com.

The Kentucky
Bourbon Trail
Discover a rich part of Bluegrass State heritage along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, which connects the nation’s finest bourbon distilleries, including Jim Beam, Maker’s Mark and Wild Turkey Bourbon. Visitors can witness the skills needed to produce great bourbon — much of still done in a manner perfected centuries ago — while also traversing Kentucky’s beautiful, rolling landscape. Various distilleries in Frankfort, Bardstown and Lexington; 502/564-4930, www.kybourbontrail.com.

Muhammad
Ali Center
If a picture is worth a thousand words, than the two photo essays on display at the Muhammad Ali Center — “Utica-A Town that Loves Refugees,” and “A New Home, A New Life” — speak millions. Through Aug. 15, the exhibits raise awareness about the world’s refugees by spotlighting the lives of people who were transplanted to two American communities. 144 N. Sixth St., Louisville; 502/584-9254, www.alicenter.org.

Brew at the Zoo
and Wine Too
Overdue for a grown-up outing at a kid-friendly spot? Look no further than the Louisville Zoo’s fifth annual “Brew at the Zoo and Wine, Too” function, Aug. 23. The event features spirits from the Horseshoe Bend and River Bend wineries, microbrews from 15 breweries and food from 25 regional restaurants. Plus, unwind with live music on the lawn and casino games. Louisville Zoo, 1100 Trevilian Way, Louisville; 502/238-5494, www.louisvillezoo.org/events/brew.htm.

Blues, Brews,
and Slow Food BBQ
Finally: a summer barbecue done in a unique and new (but still tasty) way. Experience the growing popularity of the slow-food movement with a grill-out at Greenfield Village during Blues, Brews, and Slow Food BBQ, Aug. 14. The event features plenty of slow-cooked summer fare. Pair it with beverages from the Bell's Beer tasting, then spend the night soaking in the tunes of the Front Street Blues Band. 20900 Oakwood Blvd., Dearborn; 313/982-6001, www.thehenryford.org.

Detroit Institute
of Arts Summer
Film Series
Kermit the Frog once sang that, "it's not easy being green." But it is easy being a television and movie star, as he and his fellow Muppets discovered in the 1980s. Fans of the characters can rediscover their appeal during the Detroit Institute of Arts Summer Film Series, through Aug. 17. The variety of film screenings -- shown in a restored, 1,000-seat theater -- include the documentary, "Muppets, Music and Magic: Jim Henson's Legacy." 5200 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313/833-7000, www.dia.org.

Michigan
Renaissance Festival
Travel back in time to the late 16th century -- without having to travel further than the town of Holly. The Michigan Renaissance Festival, Aug. 16–28, has been a hit with locals and out-of-towners alike for more than 30 years, thanks to themed entrtainment such as jousting by knights in armor, jesters cracking jokes and plenty of Renaissance-period merchandise. More than 200 performers and actors occupy the 15-acre village. 12600 Dixie Hwy., Holly; 800/601-4848, www.michrenfest.com.

The Grand Prixmier II:
Dancing with the Cars
Alright, so it's not the same as cheering on your favorite celebrities as they compete in a televised ballroom-dancing competition. But The Grand Prixmier II: Dancing with the Cars, Aug. 28, certainly offers its share of sharp moves and noteworthy guests.The annual event inaugurates the Detroit Grand Prix weekend and features cocktails with the drivers, an elaborate gourmet meal atop checkered-flag-covered tables and (of course) live music and dancing. 20900 Oakwood Blvd., Dearborn; 313/982-6026, www.thehenryford.org.

Chautauqua-Lake
Erie Wine Trail
It sounds like a picture-perfect setting for a romantic escape: a 40-mile long wine trail that meanders through 30,000 acres of vineyards. The Chautauqua-Lake Erie Wine Trail offers even more appeal during the America's Grape Country Week Celebration, through Aug. 17. Sip award-winning vinifera, ice wines and fruit wines at 21 renowned wineries, then visit events at a number of area stops, including the "Local Food Heroes Cook-Off" at Westfield Farmer's Market. Various locations; 716/326-3636, www.chautauquawinetrail.org.

Balloons Over
Letchworth
With a nickname like "The Grand Canyon of the East," beautiful Letchworth State Park in western New York just begs to be seen from phenomenal heights. Enter FAA-licensed pilot Sean Quigley, who takes adventurous folks on hot-air balloon rides around the scenic region, through mid-October. Balloons over Letchworth carries groups of up to ten people over sprawling farmland and to 600-ft.-deep canyons, carved out by the Genesee River. 6773 Halvorsen Rd., Portageville; 585/493-3340, www.balloonsoverletchworth.com.

Strong National
Museum of Play
As home to the National Toy Hall of Fame and the world's largest collection of toys, dolls and games, the Strong National Museum of Play already earns plenty of recognition -- not to mention, lots of kudos from kids who delight in the colorful and educational setting. Through Sept. 2, youngsters have even more reason to make a beeline to Strong, thanks to the interactive "Adventures of Clifford The Big Red Dog," exhibit featuring the PBS kids' show character. One Manhattan Square, Rochester; 585/263-2700, www.strongmuseum.org.

The Great New York
State Fair
Twelve summer days, midway rides and games, more than 375 acres of animals, exhibits and displays: If that isn't a recipe for a great state fair, than nothing is. The Great New York State Fair, Aug. 21–Sept. 1, features all the traditional requirements for fair fun, plus extras such as agricultural and carriage museums, the Coronas Hollywood Circus and the Beef Barn Jamboree. Empire Expo Center, 581 State Fair Blvd., Syracuse; 800/475-FAIR, www.nystatefair.org.

Debonne Vineyards
Classic Car Show
With awards in quirky categories such as "Longest-Distance Driven," it's no wonder the classic car show at one of Ohio's largest estate wineries is such a popular attraction. Held Aug. 16 on the rolling back hills of Debonne Vineyards in Madison, the show — complete with musical entertainment and plenty of street rods and muscle cars — offers a fun, old-fashioned way to spend a leisurely Saturday. 7743 Doty Rd., Madison; 440/466-3485, www.debonne.com.

Wright-Dunbar
Interpretive Center
It was a helicopter toy that inspired the Wright brothers to develop airplane propellers — and eventually laughed them skyward as the fathers of flight. See if your kids are inspired to soar to great heights at "Propelled Into History," Aug. 23 at the Wright-Dunbar Interpretive Center in Dayton. Children can explore how the Wrights developed their propellers, before learning about construction and design and, finally, assembling a propeller of their own. 16 S. Williams St., Dayton; 937/225-7705, www.nps.gov/daav.

Train Festival
at the Depot
Trains are fun for young and old, making Columbus' Train Festival at the Depot, Aug. 23–24, a must-do event for the entire family. More than 6,000 people came to revel in the Midwest's largest "all scale" train festival last year, eager to see a fully-restored 1880's train depot, 1909 Vermont Caboose, 1951 Great Northern and much more. Railroad memorabilia, and rides aboard the miniature Scioto Valley Railroad add to the fun. 919 Old Henderson Rd., Columbus; 614/324-5930, www.depottrainfestival.com.

Blooms & Butterflies
Feel all aflutter at the Franklin Park Conservatory's Blooms & Butterflies exhibit in Columbus, through Sept. 7. More than 100 exotic butterflies species and thousands of exquisite blooms fill the conservatory. Each weekend morning, those participating in "Adopt a Butterfly" are allowed to release one of the winged creatures into the Pacific Islands Room, watching as they soar gracefully amid the tropical flowers. 1777 E. Broad St., Columbus; 614/645-8733, www.fpconservatory.org.

World Rock
Symphony Orchestra
Part rock band, part gospel choir and part orchestra, the World Rock Symphony Orchestra knows how to stage an entertaining and eclectic show. The 50-member troupe brings their distinctive sound to Fallsview Casino Resort, Aug. 17–24, complete with arrangements of famous tunes by the Beatles, Led Zepplin and The Who. Between their distinctive music and the exciting sounds of the casino's slot machines, Fallsview rocks in August. 6380 Fallsview Blvd., Niagara Falls; 888/325-5788, www.fallsviewcasinoresort.com.

The Forest Festival
The beauty of Haliburton Forest and Wildlife Reserve, Canada's only certified sustainable forest, is reason enough to visit the Haliburton Highlands. The annual arts and music festival held there? Consider it icing on the cake. Held Aug. 22 through the end of the month, The Forest Festival lets visitors partake in large-scale environmental music theater works through sunset performances, afternoon concerts on Bone Lake, artistic workshops and guided forest walks. Rd. 7, Haliburton Highlands; 705/754-4167, www.theforestfestival.com.

Tour di Via
Italia Bicycle Race
Before sultry summer gives way to scenic autumn, enjoy the season while on two wheels. The 50th annual Tour di Via Italia Bicycle Race in Windsor's Little Italy neighborhood, Aug. 31, is Ontario's oldest competitive bicycle race and an important tradition in this Italian community. American riders can also join the race and speed alongside professional cyclists from across North America. Erie St., Windsor; 519/252-7960, www.tourdiviaitalia.com.

SummerFeast 2008
Calling all foodies! Whether you've got the taste buds of a discriminating diner, or just long to nibble on upscale eats during a gorgeous weekend getaway, SummerFeast 2008 was tailor-made for you. Through Sept. 5, Ontario's Hills of Headwaters region presents the ultimate culinary experience with 14 area restaurants serving three-course meals at fixed, affordable prices. Various restaurants, The Hills of Headwaters; 800/332-9744, www.summerfeast.ca.

Pioneer Tunnel Coal
Mine & Steam Train
Pennsylvania’s rich coal-mining history gets its due at Pioneer Tunnel Coal Mine & Steam Train in Ashland. As if train rides and tours of the main attraction — a tunnel running 1800 feet into the side of Mahanoy Mountain — weren’t entertaining enough, the site pulls out all the stops Aug. 16 for Pioneer Day. Bring the whole family and experience a petting zoo, games and lots of live music. Higher-Up Park, S. 20th St., Ashland; 570/875-3850, www.pioneertunnel.com.

Celebrate Erie
Arts Festival
Big taste, big names and big sights. The Celebrate Erie Festival, Aug. 14–17, lives up to its name by providing residents and visitors alike with a full slate of activities and tons of mouthwatering food. Enjoy the Taste of Erie culinary festival; the two-block Kids’ Zone; music from group such as Foreigner; and a larger-than-life fireworks show. State St., Erie; www.celebrateerie.com.

Carnegie Science Center
The tragic tale of the Titanic has captivated the public since the ship sank in 1912. Through Sept. 1, visitors to the Carnegie Science Center in Pittsburgh can explore the more than 260 artifacts — including china, personal effects, coins and more — during “Titanic: Artifact Exhibition,” and discover the fascination for themselves. The exhibit includes extensive room recreations. One Allegheny Ave., Pittsburgh; 412/237-3400, www.carnegiesciencecenter.org.

Hershey’s Chocolate
World S’mores Party
It’s a sweet escape for kids — or just a great excuse to satisfy your sweet tooth. No matter the reason for your visit, the Hershey’s Chocolate World S’mores Party promises a tasty trip. Held every summer evening through Sept. 1 in the Kit Kat Café, the S’mores parties feature Hershey’s product characters and (of course) lots of chocolate — an apt way to end the day at the cocoa-themed park. 251 Park Blvd., Hershey; 717/534-4900, www.hersheys.com/chocolateworld.

The State Fair
of West Virginia
It’s called “West Virginia’s Biggest Garden Party” for a reason. The State Fair of West Virginia, Aug. 8–16, is a getaway for green thumbs, thanks to educational demonstrations and presentations in the Master Gardener’s Demonstration Garden. Livestock and horse competitions, plus plenty of homegrown food, contribute to the down-on-the-farm feel. Don’t miss special guests Merle Haggard and Garrison Keillor. Virginia State Fairgrounds, 107 W. Fair St., Lewisburg; 304/645-1090, www.wvstatefair.com.

Super Cup
Stock Car Series
For an adrenaline-pumping day at the races, there’s nothing like Ona Speedway: West Virginia’s only asphalt racetrack. Bring the whole family to experience the high-powered excitement of the Super Cup Stock Car Series, Aug. 16, when stock cars led by skilled drivers tear around the course at breakneck speeds. Between the night’s racing action and the infectious enthusiasm of the crowd, you’re guaranteed to have a good time. Off of Howells Mill Rd., Ona; 304/617-1966, www.onaspeedway.com.

Haunted Evening
Ghost Tour
The thrills and chills of Halloween may be months away, but the eerie Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum in Weston ensures scares in summertime, too. On Aug. 29, keep your friends closer and your guide even closer during the Haunted Evening Ghost Tour, which leads brave guests on a two-hour, paranormal ghost hunt through the Asylum’s allegedly haunted spots. 71 Asylum Dr., Weston; 304/269-5070, www.trans-alleghenylunaticasylum.com.

Festival of the Rivers
For most people, Labor Day Weekend means fun and free time with family. Travelers find that and much more at the Festival of the Rivers in Hinton, Aug. 30 & 31. Located at the confluence of the Greenbrier, Bluestone and New rivers, the free event features live performances by 13 musical acts, including six-time Grammy nominee Mike Seeger. Side-Track Park, Corner of Fifth and Commercial streets, Hinton; 304/466-3255, www.hintonwva.com/festrivers.html