Living History re-enactors at the Nimitz Museum of the Pacific War will present three Pacific Combat Zone renenactment shows on both Saturday and Sunday. The 90-minute shows begin at 10:30am, 1:00 and 3:30 pm each day at the Pacific Combat Zone.

Visitors will learn about the American and Japanese forces as they prepare for battle on a Pacific island. Weapons will be discussed and demonstrated and later used in a final attack on the Japanese-held island. Attendees will feel the rumble of a Stewart tank as it moves past the audience and onto the battle field. The only operational WW II flame-thrower in Texas is used in the final assault.

Appropriate for the entire family, admission is $5 for adults and $3 for students. World War II veterans and children under six are admitted free of charge. Tickets may be purchased at the Pacific Combat Zone at the beginning of each performance or in advance at the Front Desks of the Admiral Nimitz Museum on Main Street and the George H.W. Bush Gallery on E. Austin Street. The majority of the programs are standing room only so it’s advisable to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to show times.

While 80 percent of the seating is shaded, sun screen and hats are recommended. Ear plugs will be provided.

The Pacific Combat Zone’s “Ship Store” will be in full operation before, during and after each performance. In addition to various snacks, bottled water and soda, there will be an assortment of adult and youth field gear, hats and tee shirts. Children’s helmets, toy guns, army action figures and gliders will be offered for sale. Rounding out the list are photographs of the volunteer re-enactors (available for autographs, too).

On the first Friday of every month, 9 art galleries keep their doors open late to show off  the finest in regional, national & international art being displayed in a beautiful Texas Hill Country setting.  Along with the art, each gallery serves local wines from Becker Vineyards, Torre di Pietra and others, and some offer live entertainment.  For schedule of events, visit the First Friday Art Walk website.

Fredericksburg, Texas’ Eisbahn is a new winter tradition

We don’t get a lot of cold weather in Fredericksburg, but every December we do have an ice rink, or eisbahn.

Hours are Mondays – Saturdays 4:00 – 8:00pm; Fridays & Saturdays and School Holidays 10:00am – 10:00pm; Sunday 1:00 – 8:00pm and closed on Christmas Day. For $10 you can skate all day.  The Eisbahn is open from November 26 until January 2, 2011.

Need to get a last minute item for the hunter in your life?   The annual Gun and Blade show at the Gillespie County Fairgrounds this weekend may just fit the bill. A collection of guns, knives, ammo, jewelry, fishing, coins, gifts and collectibles. Buy, sell, trade or just browse. Admission is $5 for adults and 12 and under free. Hours are Saturday 9:00am – 5:00pm and Sunday 10:00am – 4:00pm.

Shop with over 350 vendors and 6 barns in one location at this special Holiday Trade Days on Highway 290 East.   Acres of antiques, collectables and much more. Relax in the Biergarten while listening to live music. $3 parking fee is good all three days. Hours are Friday and Saturday 9:00am – 6:00pm and Sunday 9:00am – 4:00pm. Please call 210/846-4094 for vendor info.

Do you have a long Christmas shopping list?  On November 13 and 14, the Fredericksburg Fall Antique Show returns to the Gillespie County Fairgrounds, three miles south of Fredericksburg on Highway 16 South.   The show is 10 am to 5 pm on Saturday, and 10 am to 4 pm on Friday.

Let’s just say you are coming to Fredericksburg this weekend and you’re not a fan of sauerkraut, and will be skipping Oktoberfest. You can still find entertainment in Luckenbach, Texas at their annual OktoberFiesta!

The Oktober Fiesta is a celebration of both German and Mexican Culture with some music thrown in the mix. Performing throughout the day will Stephanie Urbina Jones, Folklorico Dancers, and some Mariachis!  There will be a jalapeño eating contest and pinatas.  Lots of pinatas.

The fun starts at 1 p. m.  Visit the Luckenbach website or call  888-311-8990 for more information.

The Antique Tractor & Engine Club at Gillespie County Fairgrounds on Highway 16 South show is a three day event with static displays of antique tractor and farm engines, working saw mill, wheat threshing and a antique tractor pull and parade. Also a flea market and arts & crafts, all ag related. Hours are 8 am to 8 pm. Cost is $6 adults; 12 and under free; 2-day pass $10. Please call (830) 685-3344 for more information.

The Fredericksburg Food and Wine Fest will be in its 21st year on October 22, 2010, from noon to 7 pm. Held in downtown Fredericksburg, Texas, on Marktplatz (the 100 block of West Main Street), it is a full-course celebration of Texas food, wine, music, specialty booths, food court, and fun for all.

$20 General Admission includes the following: Souvenir Fest wine glass, Six Tickets towards wine tastings (6 tickets = 1 glass or 3 samples), Five sessions of the popular Grape Expectations Cooking School,Great music, an auction and the Great Gargantuan Grape Toss, Texas wine & Texas specialty food to sample, admission to the Food Court (Purchase more food).

Call 830-997-8515 for more information.