Here we are in 2005! January is always a busy month in San Luis Obispo as locals enjoy the opportunity to get out and unwind after the Holiday season. Gathered here is a snapshot of events that you will enjoy this January. As alyways, our events calendar is the most up to date resource for local happenings.

The Arts

Monday, January 24 at 8pm, don't miss the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra in a rare performance at the Performing Art Center in San Luis Obispo. Led by Grammy-winning trumpeter Wynton Marsalis, the 15- member Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra is made up of the hottest jazz soloists and ensemble players working today.

Do you remember the soundtrack from the hit move 'O Brother, Where Art Thou?' Well if you do, that was the sound of Ralph Stanley And The Clinch Mountain Boys. His pure oldtime Bluegrass Sound is also coming to the Performing Art Center this month, on January 29 at 8pm.

Nature/Outdoors

January 14 - January 17: The annual "Winter Bird Festival" will be held in Morro Bay.Walks, cruises, workshops, displays and vendor booths in honor of this "Globally Important Bird Area", home or visited by over 200 bird species. Over 35 land, ocean and bay field trips. Vendor show. Reservations are required for this very popular event.

Time: 6:30AM - 9:00PM

Location: Morro Bay Community Center & Region Event

Address: 1001 Kennedy Way Event City: Morro Bay

Parking: Free on Site

Miscellaneous

January 22: Gumbo Fest - Mission Plaza

Gumbo Cook-Off & more. A visit from the King & Queen, children's costume contest, kid's parade, kids' contests for mask making / costumes / coloring. Live entertainment. A total fun experience for the whole family. Join in this colorful revelry. May be moved if rained out.

Time: 10 - 5PM

Location: Mission Plaza, Downtown Event

Address: Mission Plaza, San Luis Obispo