Dogwood Festival

Times vary; May 11-20

Dowagiac

If you’ve never heard of the Dogwood Festival, you aren’t the only one. It may be one of the best-kept secrets in the area for literary, music and culinary buffs. The event draws high-profile authors, musicians and chefs to Dowagiac every year. Headliners this year include Pulitzer Prize-winning writer Michael Chabon, author of “Wonder Boys;” the American Culinary Federation team; and Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Dave Mason, co-founder of the band Traffic and songwriter of hits like “Feelin Alright,” “We Just Disagree” and “Only You Know and I Know.” Visit www.dogwoodfinearts.org for a schedule and ticket information.

Around the World Springtime Wine and Food Tour

5 to 8 p.m. May 16

Ideal Place, Benton Harbor

You can’t go wrong with a wine tasting in southwest Michigan, but when it’s paired with a food tour — and it benefits cancer care programs — it’s a win-win. Lambrecht’s, known for its wide selection of regional wines and staff of wine experts, is offering more than 50 wines and a medley of special foods in its “Around the World Springtime Wine and Food Tour” at Benton Harbor’s Ideal Place restaurant. This event benefits Lakeland Hospital. Tickets are $30 in advance at Lambrecht’s, 2926 Niles Ave., St. Joseph, and $35 at the door. Call (269) 983-5353 or visit lambrechtsliquors.com.

New Buffalo citywide sidewalk sales

Times vary; May 18

New Buffalo

Cure your spring fever with a walk along beautiful New Buffalo’s business district and snag some good deals at its citywide sidewalk sales. Maps can be found at the New Buffalo Business Association info booth at the corner of North Whittaker and Merchant streets.

Michiana Star Party

May 18-20

Dr. T.K. Lawless Park, Vandalia

Star junkies will be in their element at the Michiana Star Party at Dr. T.K. Lawless Park in Vandalia. Listen to NASA and Notre Dame speakers; play an astronomy trivia contest; view the stars through a variety of telescopes or bring your own; listen to bluegrass music; see a watch a magic show; and much more. For more info, visit http://earthdaypark.webs.com.