Weekend preview: Festivals all over the region

Chances are, if you can’t find something to do this weekend, you’re going out of your way to be bored.

That’s because some of the biggest festivals that spring has to offer in the region will be be celebrated on Saturday and Sunday, May 16-17. One – the foothills’ annual homage to all thing froggy – actually begins today, May 14.

Thousands of folks traditionally turn out for the events, taking place from Modesto to the Mother Lode. On tap are the Modesto Family Cycling Festival and Criterium; the Oakdale Chocolate Festival; a celebration of John Muir; and, yes, the frogalicious Calaveras County Fair and Jumping Frog Jubilee.

Here’s a look at those events and details on what you’ll find if you attend:

Calaveras County Fair and Jumping Frog Jubilee

Today through Sunday, May 14-17

This annual jumping frog competition and county fair has roots dating back to the late 1800s. The fair got its fame from Mark Twain’s 1865 short story “The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County.”

Today, more than 35,000 people attend to enjoy the food, exhibits, entertainment, rodeo, Destruction Derby, livestock, arena events, vendor booths and more. This year, Asleep at the Wheel performs Friday. Festival hours are 8 a.m.-11 p.m. Thursday and Sunday, 8 a.m.-midnight Friday and Saturday. Calaveras County Fairgrounds, 2465 Gun Club Road, Angels Camp. $5-$12. www.frogtown.org.

Modesto Family Cycling Festival and Criterium

Saturday, May 16

The annual cycling fest in downtown Modesto celebrates riding on two wheels. The event features BMX stunt shows, obstacle courses and races, bounce houses, a rock climbing wall, face painting and more. Free bicycle helmets will be handed out to all children. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. I Street, between 10th and 12th streets. Free. (209) 571-5193.

The Criterium on Saturday runs in conjunction with the bike festival and offers a variety of cycling race categories from beginner and child to professional with USA Cycling rules in application. Races begin and end at the corner of 13th and I streets. 6 a.m.-4 p.m. (209) 606-6414.

Oakdale Chocolate Festival

Saturday and Sunday, May 16-17

Oakdale is known for its cowboys, but it’s also known for this annual homage to the sweet, velvety confection that is chocolate. While the festival dates back to when Hershey’s was a major employer in the city, Oakdale has kept the annual chocolate fest alive.

This year’s 23rd festival will feature arts and crafts, the traditional Chocolate Avenue, food, fun runs, kids activities, vendors, entertainment and more. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. Wood Park, Highways 120 and 108, Oakdale. Tickets $4 advance, $6 at the door; free ages 12 and under. www.oakdalechamber.com.

All Things Muir Festival

Saturday, May 16

This sixth annual event celebrates John Muir’s historic visits and walks to Yosemite in 1868 and 1869, before Yosemite became a national park. Sponsored by the nonprofit John Muir Geotourism Center, this year’s event also marks the 125th anniversary of Yosemite National Park.

The Muir fest will feature live music, activities, vendors and food, along with an open house at Art Gallery on Main Street for a “Yosemite Tapestries” exhibit. Also on hand will be an opportunity to chat with a John Muir reenactor. Events are held in vicinity of Main Street in Coulterville. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. (209) 878-3501. http://johnmuir.us/jmgc-events.

This story was originally published May 12, 2015 at 5:03 PM with the headline "Weekend preview: Festivals all over the region."