A composition competition takes place months before and the winner takes home a $3,000 prize.  All applicants must be age 35 or under and use original work in order to provide Carlsbad and the music world with the next generation of pioneering, world-class music and composers. This year’s winner and featured composer is Andy Akiho, an eclectic composer and performer whose interests run from steel pan to traditional classical music. Akiho came to composition through the steel pan (an instrument which originated in Trinidad) and has subsequently gone on to study music composition at Manhattan School of Music, Yale School of Music and Princeton University. Because of the cutting-edge theme, the festival won the 2010 CMA/ASCAP Award for Adventurous Programming and has been praised by several world-renowned news sources.

All concerts will take place in the Village of Carlsbad, within short walking distance of each other, as well as the train, beach, restaurants and hotels. The Festival will commence on Friday evening with the fun, free “Village Music Walk”, where the streets are closed down for music lovers to walk along, listen and watch all sorts of diverse original music. Some of the past years most popular composers/bands have included Calder Quarlet, Jacob Cooper and Vicky Chow. Concerts will take place at a variety of venues on Saturday and Sunday. Tickets will be purchased that you may order online at www.carlsbadmusicfestival.org or at the Festival.

Matt McBane started the first Carlsbad Music Festival in the spring of 2004. It has drawn thousands of enthusiastic beach and music lovers to its concerts in the coastal California city of Carlsbad. In addition to the raves of the Festival-goers, the Fest has not stopped receiving wonderful reviews from the artists, press and everyone involved.

Photo Via Flicker

Individuals who have invested in vacation condo rentals in the beautiful seaside town of Carlsbad, California, may have an interest in spending their next West Coast getaway relaxing in a luxurious setting. While one can get plenty of rest and relief from a day lounging on the beach, travelers may wish to consider spending a few hours at a gorgeous and well-appointed spa instead.

The Skinsational Spa recently took home the award for the number one day spa in all of San Diego County, an honor that individuals who have been to the facility may not be surprised by. This virtual hub of relaxation offers dozens of incredibly indulgent services and treatments that have been designed to pamper and put at ease even the most stressed out traveler, a quality that individuals visiting from across the country may especially appreciate.

Once travelers have decided to book a few services at the facility, they must then decide which treatments they will undergo. As Skinsational offers services for both the skin and body, spa-goers will have many different choices to make when planning out their relaxing day.

The treatments offered at Skinsational run the gamut from massage and facials to hair removal and makeup application. In addition, individuals can also recline in one of the spa’s tanning beds or get a pedicure or manicure. However, for individuals who wish to spend the entire day pampering themselves, a spa package may be the way to go. Skinsational offers group deals, Japanese and Organic body therapies and services specifically designed to cater to the needs of men and new brides.

Regardless of the treatments that travelers select at Skinsational Spa, they are sure to have a relaxing and pampering experience.

While there are many amazing things to do in Carlsbad, California, such as going to the beach, eating in delicious restaurants and engaging in numerous water sports, shopping may be one of the best activities. This beautiful coastal city is the home of the Carlsbad Premium Outlets, one of the best places in the area to shop til you drop at a great price. Individuals who enjoy both relaxing and having fun on their vacations should consider investing in condo rentals in Carlsbad. In this way, they can experience all that the beach side city has to offer any time they want.

The Carlsbad Premium Outlets is an outdoor shopping center with more than 90 stores. This attraction may appeal to many people and is great for a day-long family outing. For instance, while the shopaholics in the family go crazy scouting for deals, children and less shopping-inclined members of the party can explore the fantastic outside setting and get a bite to eat at one of the center’s many delicious dining options.

Cheers your friends a great night at the Karl Strauss Brewery!

Travelers who consider themselves beer connoisseurs are sure to have a fabulous time visiting Carlsbad, California. While this West Coast locale is well-known for its beautiful beaches, warm oceans, quaint village setting and many fun attractions, it also has much to offer those who wish to drink – and learn about – America’s favorite alcoholic beverage. As individuals who visit Carlsbad may never want to leave this idyllic destination, travelers may want to consider investing in vacation condo rentals the next time they visit.

Karl Strauss’ Brewing Company should perhaps be the number one thing to do on beer lovers’ travel itineraries. Located on Armada Drive in Carlsbad, this combination brewery/restaurant is close enough to both the beach and condo accommodations to warrant a visit.

Once one arrives at the beautiful Karl Strauss’ Brewing Company, they are faced with many options. Individuals can enjoy a beverage, sit down for a full meal or take some beer to go to later drink at home or in their vacation condo rentals. The pub offers beer straight from the tap in half gallon growlers, which will allow travelers to share with the other members of their party if they so desire.

According to the brewery’s website, the Red Trolley Ale, which is an Irish-style red, is one of the best choices on the menu. This brew recently won a gold medal in the American Beer Festival and reportedly strikes a delicious balance between malts and bitterness. Other beers that visitors may wish to sample include the Blackball Belgian IPA, Boardwalk Black Rye, Woodie Gold Ale and Windansea Wheat Hefeweizen.

Oceanside, CA: November 24,  Info call (760) 434-5255

Experience breathtaking views, as you run along the beach. Looking for a place to stay near the race? Try the Southern California Beach Club.

Sedona, AZ: November 25, Info call (928) 202-6434

View beautiful rock formations while working off those calories. Need a place to stay, try the Bell Rock Inn.

San Diego, CA:  November 24, Info call (619) 446-2100

The largest Turkey Trot  San Diego has to offer, experience the downtown area and the historic Balboa park while burning off those unwanted calories. Looking for a place to stay for the race? Try the Coronado Beach Resort

Anaheim, CA: November 24, Info call (714) 779-7803

Experience Orange County’s finest during  this Turkey Trot. The race will take runners on a adventure through the lovely city of Anaheim. Get a good rest the night before at the Lemon Tree Hotel.

San Francisco, CA: November 24, Info call (415) 595- 6934

Experience the many wounder of San Francisco as you run through the various districts. Need a place to stay for the race? Try the Wyndham Canterbury at San Francisco

Check out some of the other  Thanksgiving Deals

Families on vacation in Carlsbad this fall may wish to consider attending the city’s Village Faire, an event that is held twice a year. While 2011′s first celebration was held in May, this autumn, the fun festival will be held on November 6 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the village center.

According to Carlsbad’s official tourism website, the Village Faire is the largest single day street fair in the U.S..  Each year, more than 100,000 people converge on this coastal town to sample local cuisine, take in live entertainment, browse unique, homemade wares and enjoy the wonderful weather outdoors. Individuals who are interested in attending the faire may have an interest in hearing that nearly 900 different merchant stands and 50 unique food stalls will be set up for their viewing and eating pleasure.

“The reason so many people return to the faire every year is that they can count on finding quality items to purchase because of the wide variety of vendors,” said Ted Owen, the president and chief executive officer of the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce. “You name it and it’s for sale at the faire.”

In addition to the Carlsbad Village Faire’s numerous shopping and culinary attractions, it also has several sites specifically built for young children, such as a game area, bounce house and a rock climbing wall.

Push yourself at the Carlabad Marathon

Individuals who are interested in planning a fun and active getaway should consider investing in condo rentals in Carlsbad, California. This beautiful beach side locale is a magnificent place to vacation, and offers many exciting activities and attractions for visitors from out of town.

Travelers who have invested in Carlsbad vacation condo rentals may wish to plan their trips for late January, as one of the area’s most highly anticipated events is scheduled for this month. On January 22, the city will host its annual Carlsbad Marathon; a 26.2-mile road race that benefits the Tri-City Medical Center.

Runners may enjoy participating in the Carlsbad Marathon not only because it offers a challenging course but also fantastically beautiful views. The race begins at the Westfield Plaza Camino Real and continues up to coast through the Buena Vista Lagoon and Carlsbad village.  Although the course is rolling and includes several demanding hills, participants are sure to have a wonderful time pushing themselves to their limits and taking in the incredible sights along the way.

Individuals who wish to take part in this fun race but do not think that they will have enough time to train for the full marathon may be interested in running the half. This course stretches just 13.1 miles and is much more consistent in elevation than the full race. According to the event’s website, the Carlsbad half marathon is one of the fastest courses in the U.S., which means that runners may be able to set or break personal records when competing.

Travelers who wish to plan trips to Carlsbad in order to participate in this awesome event may want to consider flying in a few days before the race.  In this way, individuals can ensure that their bodies are acclimated to the possible time or climate differences and are ready to go on January 22.

Enjoy a variety of activities at Carlsbad Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest is a traditional German celebration that is held each year in Munich. The event typically lasts between 16 and 18 days beginning in September and continuing into the middle part of the month of October. This fantastic festival is one of the most famous events in Germany and usually attracts more than 5 million visitors from across the world.

Although many individuals may not be able to participate in this year’s Oktoberfest in Munich, they can still have a fantastic time celebrating German culture and the autumn season right here in the U.S. On October 1, travelers who have invested in vacation condo rentals in Carlsbad, California, will have the opportunity to attend the area’s most-loved fall celebration, the Carlsbad Oktoberfest.

This particular West Coast Oktoberfest is put on each year by The Carlsbad Rotary. The event is currently in its 29th season, all of which have reportedly been a huge success among locals and tourists alike.

Individuals who plan to attend this year’s Carlsbad Oktoberfest may be excited to hear how many fun activities and events are planned during the the one-day festival. For instance, there will be live music playing for the duration of the fest, an obstacle course set up in the afternoon and a magician scheduled to visit at 2 p.m. Children will also be able to get their faces painted and enjoy performances by clowns while their parents enjoy the festival’s samples of beer and German food.

Just like in Germany, traditional cuisine will be a major part of this event. According to The Carlsbad Rotary’s website, an authentic German meal will be served at Oktoberfest, complete with delicious bakery treats and cold, frothy beer.

Legoland California Waterpark

Individuals who are visiting Carlsbad, California, and staying in vacation condo rentals have many fun options to choose from when it comes time to decide what to do on their exciting getaways. A particularly fantastic place to visit is Legoland, a park wholly dedicated to this children’s toy and popular pastime.

On a Legoland holiday, individuals who explore the park are sure to be amazed by the sheer number of statues and displays that have been completely constructed out of Lego building blocks. For instance, artists have created a life-size replica of Santa Claus, his reindeer and sleigh for the park’s upcoming Holly Jolly Holidays. This annual event takes place each winter and will be held this year from November 28 to December 31.

In addition to seeing the numerous holiday-themed Lego displays that will grace the park in honor of this festival, visitors may wish to attend one of the special events also going on, such as the tree lighting. On November 28, a yet-to-be-announced celebrity will light the world’s tallest Lego tree to kick off this fun and festive celebration.

Although this fun attraction will only be at Legoland for a month, there are still plenty of enjoyable and exciting things to do and see at this amazing park year round. For instance, there are dozens of rides, shows, sopping and dining opportunities that may be of interest to children and adults of all ages.

Individuals who are interested in having a thrilling time at Legoland should consider hopping on one of the park’s theme rides. In particular, the junior rollercoaster on the paleontology-themed Dino Island is perfect for older children, while the attractions at the Pirate Shores exhibit are sure to provide a fun time for swashbuckling youngsters.

Supporting Komen for the Cure

Carlsbad, CA – Breast cancer is a killer and He’Ro’es For Hope is meeting it head on with a 3-Mile Walk to Fight Breast Cancer.

  ResorTime.com of Carlsbad actively supports these efforts to find a cure for this dreaded disease. Located in the North San Diego city of Carlsbad,  ResorTime.com is encouraging locals and tourists who want to participate to show up on Sunday, September 25, 2011 at the Stage North of Buffini Company, 5770 Armada Drive, Carlsbad, CA 92008. Registration begins at 7:15a and the walk starts at 8:00a.  (Located above the Flower Fields near Grand Pacific Palisades and Karl Strauss Brewery.)

“Breast cancer is a disease without borders, and a disease without boundaries, and it can strike anyone, anytime, anywhere,” says Sherri Weeks, General Manager of ResorTime.com. “This is our 5^th year,  3^rd annual in North County  He’Ro’es For Hope walk in support of Komen for the Cure.   The walk is held at the same time as the walk held downtown San Diego, in order to hopefully get more participation from those who may not be able to make it downtown but would still like to support the cause!”

He’Ro’es For Hope is so named in commemoration of Ro Fecko a long time employee, colleague and dear friend of Grand Pacific Resorts and it’s employees, who was a breast cancer victim.

“Ro Fecko was an extraordinary human being,” Weeks continues. “Witnessing her valiant struggle against breast cancer was an inspiration and something I will never forget. In some small measure He’Ro’es For Hope recognizes the impact that Ro, and other colleagues, family, and friends, who have fought cancer have had.”

He’Ro’es For Hope is a three mile walk to help fight breast cancer and the proceeds benefit the Komen for the Cure. The walk is $15 (includes a free T-shirt for the first 350 walkers). Kids can walk for free.

For more information call (760-525-3176) or email (heroesforhopewalk@gmail.com), or log on to (http://www.carlsbadartsplash.org).

Following the walk you can take in the Carlsbad ArtSplash, a free, non-profit event that promotes and benefits arts within the community. ArtSplash is a community-wide partnership of organizations and business working together to establish an Annual Family Event showcasing San Diego North County.

“He’Ro’es For Hope is a worthy cause and a way for the average person to get involved in the fight against breast cancer,” Weeks says. “I urge everyone to participate and if you can’t make the walk on Sunday, September 25, consider making a donation. Every little bit counts!”

You can register or donate online (http://www.ticketderby.com/event/heroes-for-hope-breast-cancer-walk-id-5770). Register by mail: The Flower Fields, Attn: Joni Miringoff, 5600 Avenida Encinitas #100, Carlsbad, CA 92008.

About ResorTime.com

ResorTime.com (http://www.resortime.com) is a leader in nightly, weekly, and extended luxury timeshare rentals. In business since 1999, the company has affiliate partnerships with the leading timeshare companies around the world, including Diamond Resorts International, Grand Pacific Resorts, Wyndham, Pacific Monarch, and Starwood Vacation Ownership. For more information about this release call Kenneth Joyce (760-827-4145) or email (kjoyce@resortime.com).