Best bets for the weekend

This writer has a rotten cold this week, as does much of the Free World, so it's tough to be upbeat about February. The geology folks at the UW probably keep getting false earthquake readings every time the entire population of Ballard coughs. But we guess someone has to be optimistic, like the bicyclists on Bainbridge Island this weekend riding the Chilly Hilly, trying to convince us all that it's the start of the spring cycling season. If you insist on parading your sneeze-wracked body among the populace, here are more ideas (remember to cough into your sleeve):

Ever smelt a mystery or said boo to a goose? If your life has been dull and you feel in need of a little road trip, aim for Whidbey Island, Camano Island or La Conner this weekend. On Whidbey, the village of Langley hosts its annual Mystery Weekend, and they're dying to show you a good time. Camano and nearby Stanwood are home to the Port Susan Snow Goose and Birding Festival, with kayak tours, a pancake breakfast and more. Up La Conner way, it's the annual Smelt Derby and the accompanying festival (where they kick up their heels whether the smelt show up or not). Grab your DayQuil, your magnifying glass, goose call and fishing rod. And go.

Downward dog (and they mean it): The Humane Society offers a workshop, "Yoga With Dogs."

Red carpet party: It's Oscar night on Sunday. If you don't have your own party at home, there's an officially sanctioned Oscar party, with red carpet entry and all the bells, whistles and champagne flutes, at The Triple Door in Seattle.

If you'd rather wear hunter orange than black tie: Head for the Evergreen Sportsmen's Show in Monroe, for all sorts of exhibits having to do with hunting, fishing, boating and camping. There's even a grizzly bear and a trout-fishing pond.

Or if you'd rather wear a fireman's helmet: Firefighters and firefighting buffs might clear the roads in their hurry to get to Puyallup, for the display of fire engines old and new. Move right for sirens and lights.

Celebrate African Heritage: At Seattle Central Community College on Sunday.

Northwest Weekend editor Brian J. Cantwell, a Seattle native, lives on his sailboat in Ballard. Reach him at bcantwell@seattletimes.com or 206-748-5724.