Not all of central Tucson's many festivals and seasonal events take place on public streets, but many do, from the Fourth Avenue Street Fair to the Rodeo Parade. Others are open-air affairs that capitalize on our generally sunny skies and clement climate.

In this space we can offer but a taste of these treats. Keep informed by reading the Tucson Citizen or visiting www.tucsoncitizen.com and tucsoneventscalendar.com as events approach.

Winterhaven Festival of Lights

There probably won't be any snow on the ground, but it's still the best bet when you're trying to jump-start your holiday spirit. The Winterhaven neighborhood, near East Fort Lowell Road and North Tucson Boulevard, draw 100,000 visitors each holiday season. Private companies offer wagon and trolley rides. Some nights, vehicles are allowed; other evenings are reserved for walkers. Nonperishable food donations are appreciated. Dec. 18-Jan. 1

Fourth Avenue Street Fair

A decidedly funky atmosphere prevails in this semiannual time warp featuring some 400 crafts booths, 35 food vendors and premiere people-watching opportunities. On Fourth Avenue between University Boulevard and Ninth Street. More info: www.fourthavenue.org. Dec. 10-12, March 18-20.

Tucson Gem, Mineral & Fossil Showcase

Part science, part swap meet, this annual assortment of shows at 37 locations features just about any rock-related merchandise you can name, as well as vendors from all over the planet. Some shows are open just to dealers; others welcome the public. The motels lining Interstate 10 access roads are particularly dense with shows. The big event is at the Tucson Convention Center Feb. 10-13. Events leading up to it begin Jan. 27.

La Fiesta de los Vaqueros

The Rodeo Parade, on South Park Avenue, is held on a Thursday; a week's worth of events starts Feb. 19. The main rodeo runs Wednesday through Sunday at the Tucson Rodeo Grounds, 4823 S. Sixth Ave. On the Web: www.tucsonrodeo.com. Feb. 19-27

Spring training

Watch Sammy Sosa hit a home run - or see Randy Johnson give one up. Catch the Arizona Diamondbacks, Chicago White Sox and Colorado Rockies, plus other teams of the Cactus League, at Hi Corbett Field and Tucson Electric Park. Information: cactus-league.com. March.

Tucson International Mariachi Conference

Workshops, clinics and concerts, culminating with the Espectacular concert at TCC on Friday night, followed by the Fiesta de Garibaldi on Saturday at Armory Park. www.tucsonmariachi.org. April 19-23.

Spring Fling

The Associated Students of the University of Arizona's annual carnival is at Rillito Park, 4502 N. First Ave. 621-5610 or www.uaspringfling.com. April 7-10.

Greek Festival

St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, 1145 E. Fort Lowell Road, raises money at this festival to feed the hungry on Thanksgiving. The place is always packed. Dancing and tons of food and activities for the kiddies. 888-0505. September.

Tucson Meet Yourself

Polish off some pirogi in Presidio Park. Food is always a big draw at this annual celebration of Tucson's diversity. On the plaza outside Tucson City Hall and the county complex. 882-3060. October.