The weekend is upon us. It's the weekend AFTER New Year's weekend. It's the low-key, relax-and-have a good time, no stress express. If you're on the coast, the waves are huge and dangerous. If you're on the ski slopes, the snow is often manmade these days to keep that pleasant, powdery look & feel. And if you're out there looking for something to do, here are a few highlights:

• Dickens Festival in Riverside. Lots of costumes, literary events, parades, fun!
• Gem Fair at San Diego Fairgrounds in Del Mar. gemfaire.com
• Palm Springs International Film Festival psfilmfest.org
• Silicon Valley International Auto Show in San Jose motortrendautoshows.com
• Throughout California: Ice Skating Rinks are still open
• Coastal: < Whale watching tours are hot ticket item!