The following information was disseminated by the Travel Berkeley Springs office:

Now is the ideal time in Berkeley Springs to enjoy all the pleasures ever present in this historic spa town. The mountains are green, the shops full, spas overflowing and food fresh and tasty. There is golf to play and hikes to take and drives through the countryside on two wheels or four. There is history to explore and art to appreciate.

Live music is the main special activity this weekend beginning midweek when Earth Dog Cafe hosts its weekly open mic. On Thursday, Tari's Cafe is the center of the local music scene hosting the 20 year Jam Nite now enhanced by the tasty Prime Rib special along with jam nite appetizers. Saturday night, Lickedy Split bluegrass band is performing at the Fairfax Coffee House beginning at 8pm. Also on Saturday night, local favorites The Tonehounds perform for dancing at the Troubadour starting at 9pm. Between sets you can explore the many photos and artifacts that are part of the WV Country Music Hall of Fame.

Family entertainment is found at the vintage Star Theatre where "Hannah Montana, the Movie" is on the big screen, Friday, Saturday and Sunday night at 8pm and a Sunday matinee at 2pm. The Star not only boasts family-friendly prices but also the best popcorn in four states -- and they love it when folks stop by just to get the 'corn. Popcorn is not the only specialty taste treat in town. Creekside Creamery has a full menu of ice cream dishes as well as light fare and Fairfax Coffee House offers a full menu of coffee drinks with their light fare menu.

Sunday has a wide range of opportunities. The Berkeley Springs Farmers Market is set up in the center of town from 10am to 2pm. Along with fresh produce and plants, award-winning chef, Damien Heath, of Lot 12 is there serving some of the same tasty gourmet treats you can find at dinnertime in his restaurant. Brunch is always a favorite on Sunday and we have two special offerings for guests. La Luna Gallery and Wine Bar has added brunch to their offerings from 11am to 3pm. Panorama at the Peak adds a full brunch menu to their outstanding offerings of fresh regional foods on Sunday from 11:30-3:30. For a marvelous breakfast every day sample the Country Inn, Cacapon State Park and Maria's Garden or Earth Dog Cafe where it is breakfast all day everyday.

Let's spend a little more time talking about food. Check out the full list of dining spots, menus and schedules many working hard to bring you local produce and meats. Highlights include Tari's Cafe where the crab cakes are popular as well as ever changing specials for lunch and dinner daily. Lot 12 changes menus seasonally and is now open Wednesday through Sunday. With the beautiful weather, you can choose to dine on their porch perched over the town. Try to turkey croquettes or chef-created pot roast at Panorama, almost as talked- about as the incredible view. The Country Inn is proud of its local lamb entree and tapas menu. Oasis Cafe is the mecca for local vegetarians at lunchtime. Seafood and steak specials are always on the menu at Corner Steak and Sea. Ethnic dining ranges from Mexican and Italian to Chinese. If you are planning a picnic or ready to cook out at your fully-equipped vacation home rental, stop by Tony's Butcher Block for outstanding meats, fish and everyone's favorite sandwiches on fresh baked French bread.

Visitors are often amazed at how many people they find roaming the streets in this tiny mountain town. There are many reasons why this is so but prime among them is the shopping. There is truly unique shopping among more than 20 locally owned and operated shops including two antique malls and several galleries. Besides affordable prices and friendly shopkeepers, the big attraction is walkability. All the shops are within a couple short blocks so you can park once then stroll -- or select a fine room in town and never have to move your car.

Several times we've mentioned how historic Berkeley Springs is. Now the federal government agrees recently naming downtown an historic district. If you want to know the whys and wherefores of the designation, visit the charming Museum of the Berkeley Springs over the Roman Bathhouse in Berkeley Springs State Park. You'll learn about George Washington, centuries of bathing, fires, fossils, water and sand. Lots of water-related gifts are available in the Museum gift shop. It is open Saturday and Sunday from 11am to 4pm. You can also read about the history and natural wonders on signs around town. Or follow in George Washington's footsteps on the 54 mile Washington Heritage Trail National Scenic Byway. For our many motorcycle friends, print out any of the seven detailed rides mapped out around the region.

Whether you are here to enjoy indoors or out, you need a place to rest your head. Check our lodging places and the specials they are offering -- often a free third night. There are country cabins, houses and inns for those of you wanting Mother Nature at your fingertips; B&Bs, historic inns and cottages for those looking for the easy access of being in town. Wherever you choose, you can be assured your host is delighted you are here and ready to do whatever to make you want to return to Berkeley Springs, the country's first spa.