THAT PEACEFUL PLACE: Few destinations are as tranquil as a bloom-laden field of lavishly purple lavender. Oh, there might be a bit of unruffledness, but those ruffles come from the breezes that play through the tall stalks. It is so sweet a sight that it regularly makes calendars and greeting cards, and travel shows frequently send mavens of summery smells out in search of lavender farms. There are a few of those around the Golden State, and some major lavender-themed larks, too. Ojai, being home to a number of purply places, hosts a lavender festival near the end of June, and Paso Robles? Why that is up in July. July 9, in fact, is 2016 date, the date of the 8th annual...
CENTRAL COAST LAVENDER FESTIVAL: As with many gourmet and nature-nice gatherings — think of the famous Olive Festival and tons of wine to-dos — the Lavender Festival will flower in City Park. Over 100 vendors are expected at the Saturday scene, vendors purveying in all manner of lavender loveliness. Need sachets, soaps, and such? You'll fill your trunk, or at least your passenger seat, with goodies made for the bathroom or linen shelf. Tunes and talks focused upon lavender and lavender lovers (hint: bees) are part of the daylong fun as well. Cost to attend? Free. Sniffing hue-happy herbs as you wander by tables? Also free. Daydreaming of standing in a calendar-worthy lavender field? Always free. Picking up a few vinegars for the kitchen or bubbles for the bath? That'll take some cash, so be sure to arrive ready to get your fill of the fragrant summertime wonder herb.
