Pleasanton's Firehouse (Arts Center) Fling Celebrates the Opening of this new art venue in California's family-fun travel destination, Pleasanton.

Pleasanton Cultural Arts Foundation (PCAF) is the sponsor of the new Firehouse Fling celebration to raise funds for the construction and opening of the Firehouse Arts Center. This community building with its 240-seat studio space, art galleries and classrooms, has become the focal point for the city of Pleasanton, located in Northern California's bay area. As school budgets for the arts are all but gone, communities have found ways to continue the rich traditions to enhance their youth and adults' learning opportunities through efforts such as community arts programs.

An event for local residents and tourists alike invites families and friends to come celebrate with activities for the kids that include carnival games, pony rides, hula hoop and pie eating contests, sack races, a cake walk, petting zoo, arts and crafts. For adults, live entertainment will be featured, along with a  BBQ. Time: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Proceeds will benefit the Firehouse Arts Center Capital Campaign to support development of the center.

The Firehouse Arts Center will enrich the community with a new 240-seat flexible studio theater, 2000 sq feet of high-quality gallery space, two spacious and well-equipped art classrooms and 1350 sq feet of grand lobby space. Sponsorship and volunteer opportunities are invited.

Other events in downtown Pleasanton include the annual Pleasanton Wine & Stroll. It is usually held in July.

Where to stay: When visiting Pleasanton, you'll find around 16 hotels. One of the least expensive is the Best Western, normally well under $100 per night. A host of mid-range hotels in Pleasanton include popular amenities such as affordability and extended stay suites. But we always prefer the chain hotels: Hyatt, Hilton Pleasanton at the Club and  Four Points by Sheraton.

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