Gray Whale Watching, Youth Orchestra Festival and More This Weekend

Caltrain 150th Birthday Trip

For the 54,000 daily riders who commute to and from work, Caltrain is simply mass transit. But this weekend we’ll have the opportunity to contemplate both the past and the future as Caltrain celebrates a remarkable 150 years of service. From a whistlestop trip to a community festival, the birthday bash promises something for everyone.

Gray Whale Watching with the Oceanic Society

During each whale watching cruise Oceanic Society expert naturalists give talks on gray whales and the conservation efforts which brought them back from near extinction. These exciting and educational whale watching cruises are held on board motorized diesel vessels, from Half Moon Bay (3 hours) every Saturday and Sunday from December through mid-May. For a full list of upcoming trips out of Half Moon Bay click here. Register here or call 415-256-9941.

Bay Area Youth Orchestra Festival

If you think arts education is dead, check out this festival in San Francisco. Local student musicians will perform under the baton of Michael Tilson Thomas. Imagine the thrill of the kids as they perform in Davies Symphony Hall. Tickets are available online.

Volunteer at Brentwood Elementary and McNair Middle Schools

The nonprofit Canopy plans to tend to the trees at two Palo Alto schools on Saturday. Volunteers are needed to adjust stakes, weed, and mulch. All tools and equipment will be provided.

Hidden Talents of Backyard Edibles

If our gorgeous weather has you in the mood for gardening, check out this class at Common Ground. Listen to this: “We will study plants with impressive nutrient portfolios, and plants that will keep on giving throughout the seasons.” You’ll also learn about veggies that provide “high yields in small spaces.” Register here for this class.

For more local happenings, visit the Patch Events Page