As most of us have our Easter weekend holiday already booked with activities, dining and travel, it's hard to think about the week ahead. But there are lots of unique events and festivals happening during the last weekend in April and first day in May 2011, so it isn't a bad idea to have a plan and strategy to maximize the happenings coming your way. We found 8 special events that we'd like to attend. Though it is impossible to see all of them, why not try to see at least one? Among those that stood out on the minds of SeeCalifornia.com travelers were these items:

Big Sur Marathon held Sunday, May 1, receives honors as one of the Top 3 Marathons in the U.S. Known for its stunning beauty, Big Sur coast is the toast of town for runners who seek the ultimate scenery to run their 26+ miles.

Cherry Blossom Festival in Cupertino to honor its sister city, Toyokawa, Japan. The event will be held Apr. 30 - May 1 at Memorial Park across from De Anza College.

Calistoga Tamale Festival takes to the streets of the Napa Valley wine region for some sizzling tamales and maybe some tacos, enchiladas and other heart-warming foods & fun.

Cowboy Festival in Santa Clarita is held on location on the Western stages sets at Melody Ranch.

Gold Nugget Days to celebrate the first gold nugget found in Dogtown. The event is held in Paradise Apr. 28 - May 1. It includes a tent city, beauty queen, donkey derby and kids Old West costume contest.

St. Helena Hall Cabernet Cook-off is a yummy event with fine wines and top chefs vying for honors. The audience gets to sample the great food, and wine, of course!

San Francisco How Weird Festival is held on May 1 on Howard & 2nd Streets in SF. You are invited to dress weird, act strange and just be yourself (within limits).

Temecula Summer Champagne Jazz Series launches May 1 with jazz artist Jesse Cook. Delicious food, smooth jazz-what more could you want?