CLAREMONT, Calif., Oct. 5, 2011 — While the fall brings Santa Ana winds to Southern California, it also brings studentsback to the seven world-class colleges in Claremont and a renewedopportunity for visitors and tourists to the Los Angelesarea to catch live localmusic and fairs.
The birthplace of Grammy-winner Ben Harper, Claremont is home to a wide variety ofmusical performances, ranging from classical at the Pomona College Department of Music, tostudent choral and orchestra performances at Scripps, Claremont McKenna,Harvey Mudd, and Pitzer Colleges, andtraditional jazz at the Hip Kitty Club inthe Claremont Packing House. Local pubs and clubs feature Los Angeles County and Inland Empire areabands performing seven nights a week.
 
The famous Folk Music Center and Museum in Claremont Village is owned by Ben Harper‘s family and includes acollection of rare and antique musical instruments and artifacts from aroundthe world. The Folk Music Center offers classes and workshops for buddingmusicians, a lineup of musical performances from local and international folk performers,and an Open Mic on the last Sunday of every month.
 

Followingare some highlights of Fall in Claremont 2011:

 
October 22 – 30th Annual Village Venture Arts & Crafts Faire
  
 
The Claremont Village is filled with over 450 arts & crafts booths including photography, pottery, jewelry, clothing, and garden knick-knacks at this annual faire. Just in time to kick off the holiday shopping season, visitors to Claremont will find something unique for everyone on their lists. Over 20,000 people attended in 2010. More information at http://www.claremontchamber.org/.
  
     
 
October 22 – Things That Go Bump in the Night at Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden
  
 
Meet the bats, owls, insects, spiders and plants who own the Garden at night. Pack a picnic dinner and flashlights and discover the wonders of the nocturnal world. Advance ticket purchase recommended; purchase tickets online or at the admission kiosk. More information athttp://www.rsabg.org/.
  
     
 
November 5 – Marley’s Ghost concert at the Folk Music Center
  
 
Since forming in the mid-’80s, Marley’s Ghost has built a singular reputation among discerning roots-music lovers for its instrumental virtuosity, ultra-tight four-part harmonies and animated live performances.  They blend English folk, Jamaican reggae, Gospel, Country and R&B. More information at http://www.folkmusiccenter.com/.
  
     
 
December 4 – Holiday Open House and Free Garden Admission Day at Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden
  
 
Visitors receive free Garden admission, can visit with Santa and make crafts with the kids, and enjoy holiday gift sales, festive live music and prize drawings. More information at http://www.rsabg.org/.
  
     
 
Claremont’s weekly Farmer and Artisans Market, Sunday Mornings at 2nd Street and Indian Hill Blvd.
  
 
The market features fresh local and organic produce, plants, flowers and cheeses, gifts and jewelry made by local craftspeople, used books and more.