The following information is from the Travel Berkeley Springs office:

Berkeley Springs is special this weekend -- special entertainment plus food, shopping and lodging specials.

Let's start with The King at the Country Inn. Saturday the Inn celebrates Elvis's Birthday with a buffet of the King's favorite foods and a show by legendary Elvis Impersonator Ceasare Belvano. Dinner is from 6:30 to 8:30 and "The King of Rock 'n Roll Live" show from 8 to 10pm. Lucky Ladies get a scarf or teddy bear during the show plus an after-show picture with Elvis!

Flashing lights and Hollywood returns to Berkeley Springs this weekend as the Star Theatre re-opens for the year showing Sandra Bullock in the popular "Blind Side" Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 8pm. As much missed as the movies have been these past couple weeks has been the world class popcorn the Star offers both moviegoers and walk-ins.

For more terrific live music, come on Friday and stop by the Fairfax Coffee House at 8pm for one of the best bluesman in the region -- singer/songwriter and guitarist Billy Thompson plays blues, rock, funk and jazz with Gene Monroe. There's more live music on both Friday and Saturday nights at Earth Dog Cafe.

Another special celebration is planned by Panorama at the Peak as their way of saying thanks to all their diners -- regulars and those of you coming for the first time. And how are they saying thanks? Hold onto your seats -- all entrees are half price! That's right, you pay half the usual price for both regular on-the-menu items and specials which this week (that's Thursday through Sunday at Panorama) means red angus steak and lamb from regional suppliers. Panorama is in the forefront of the eat fresh! eat local! eat organic movement and in their hands it tastes great. So, reap their appreciation and stop by for lunch or dinner. BUT -- YOU NEED TO BRING THIS MESSAGE or coupons available around town to get the special price.

More special happenings, this one in the shopping arena. Valley Caravan is a unique and exotic shop south on US 522 chock full of beautiful, full-size Oriental rugs. Now that's exotic enough BUT there is more. The whole purpose of the store is to raise money to help Afghan women and children. It is open Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 10 to 5 and has MAJOR reduced prices right now to raise some funds for the dreadful situation. Here's the ideal way to help the world AND beautify your home AND save money while doing both.

If your looking for intellectual fun consider being part of the 2nd Annual Great Gray Matter Challenge on Sunday 1:30 to 4pm at Berkeley Springs High School. Answer questions, win door prizes and eat popcorn while supporting the Morgan County Literacy Fund.

One way we know that winter is here is the season long midweek escape package offered by a trio of our finest establishments. For one-price and all the planning done for you, you can have lodging at the elegant and welcoming Highlawn Inn B&B, spa treatments at Atasia and dinner at Tari's Cafe. Pampering and good value -- it doesn't get much better. Another special offer for lodging comes from the Bathkeeper's Cottage. All month long, you can stay two nights and get the third one free in this special little cottage in the heart of downtown. If you choose, hostess and History Hero, Betty Lou Harmison, will take you on a tour of town. The Country Inn also has a two consecutive nights and get third free special -- see their website for details and other packages.

Along with all the special fun -- and everyday fun, we need to tell you about a few places that have taken some time off for one reason or another. Lot 12 is closed for dining until February. The Ice House Gallery is closed for repairs until the end of February and The RAG Shop is closed for another couple weeks for owner recovery.

Spend some time roaming the website or call the Visitors Center to find out EVERYTHING that's happening from more than a dozen eateries of all types, a half dozen spas including the historic Roman Baths, and a couple dozen shops ready and waiting for you downtown. The roads are clear. the scenery is great. The water is warm -- and all the folks in town are waiting to show you how good 2010 can be. Come to Berkeley Springs this weekend -- it's closer than anywhere.