At the Golden Gate Park, the weekend weather is still suitable enough to take in fresh air and get a bit closer to the earth and environment. This Saturday, explore two opportunities that allow you to absorb the beauty of glistening local waters and breathtaking woodlands.

From 10am to 12:30pm, you can contribute to Golden Gate Park Oak Woodland Restoration Project Work Day, held every second Saturday of each month. Simply meet up with others in front of the Conservatory of Flowers to make a difference. For more information, contact Robert Bakewell (rcbakewell [at] yahoo.com, 415-221-1137 or 415-710-9617).

Hopefully, you'll learn to catch more than just your reflection the next time you go fishing after paying a visit to the GGACC Angler's Ponds at Golden Gate Park (9:30am to 12 pm). Here is your chance to take advantage of free casting lessons – offered no matter what the weather conditions are. When you arrive, you will be assigned to a group based upon your previous experience: Beginning to Intermediate, or Intermediate to Advanced. Don't forget to bring along protective eyewear! To learn more about this event, call 650-348-1216.

Hook the leash up your favorite furried friend, slip the sparkly collar on, and if you’re looking for a special someone to call your own, make your way to Golden Gate Park for Pet Pride Day on Sunday, October 26th, 2008. Registration for this Animal Care and Control agency event is from 11am to 12pm, which is when the pet costume pre-judging will also take place.

Throughout the afternoon, Sharon Meadow will serve as a watering hole for the owners of pampered felines and man’s best friend. To ensure the safety of your companions, free microchipping is offered at this family-friendly event for licensed cats and dogs located within the city. This is also a chance to see what the ACC is all about and to become aware of their many services.

Some of the events held for Pet Pride Day (from 12pm to 3pm) include:

• Parade of Pets (12:00-12:25 pm)
• Pet Camp Pet Trick Contest (1:00-1:20 pm)
• Disc Dogs of Golden Gate (1:50-2:10 pm)
• Pet Camp Halloween Contest (2:15-2:35 pm)
• Carnival Games (2:40-2:55 pm)

Looking for more information? Contact Deb Campbell at deb.campbell [at] sfgov.org

Calling all skaters! This weekend, pay a visit to Golden Gate Park’s Metson Lake (located close to Polo Field on Middle Drive West), to enjoy high-flying tricks and non-stop shredding action. On October 12th, 2008, from 10am to 2pm, the park plays host to an event open to all skaters – no matter their specialties – freestyle, slalom, old school flavor, or new school flair.

Joining a host of other Sk8Kings Freestyle Team members, the “Brown Bomber” himself, Richy Carrasco will show off his skills. This is your chance to set eyes on a live performance by the Guinness Book World Record holder for consecutive 360-degree spins on a skateboard.

Food and refreshments will be provided at this event. The All-Skate Jam will also include product tosses and exciting giveaways. You are additionally encouraged to bring your own board to receive a free raffle ticket. After the festivities, remember to head on down to the Purple Skunk Board Shop (5820 Geary Blvd – 3pm to 5pm) for in-store discounts and raffle results.

To avoid getting lost when making your way to this adrenaline-infused occasion, don’t forget to enter from Lincoln on 25th or 41st avenues to reach the front of Metson Lake. Best of all – this is another thrillingly free event at Golden Gate Park. For more details, check out http://www.purpleskunk.com/category_s/269.htm.

This Saturday and Sunday at de Young's Wilsey Court and Koret Auditorium (between 10am and 3pm), the beauty and intrigue of the Maori people will come to life with a celebration of their culture and exquisite arts. An assortment of activities are slated to engage guests of the museum, including Maori tattooing (better known as Ta Moko), demonstrations in weaving, interactive art activities, and tours of the Oceanic Art Gallery led by Maori artists.

At the Contemporary Maori Market, handmade goods created by Maori artists are on display in the Piazzoni Murals Room. Also, if you plan your visit for Sunday, a fashion show highlighting the contemporary Moari cloaks will serve as part of the festivities.

This program is free to enjoy, but if you wish to tour the rest of the gallery, keep in mind that paying the regular museum admission is required. So, mark your calendars for October 11th and October 12th, 2008 to enjoy this cultural event soon taking place at the de Young Museum at Golden Gate Park.