California's begonia blossoms

If the only begonias you have seen are the treasured bunch in your grandmother's garden, you'll be dazzled if you spend a week in Capitola, Santa Cruz, this September.

Brilliant, imaginative and head-turning begonia floats are part of the annual Begonia Festival, now in its 49th year in the tiny seaside Californian town. The floats make their way down Soquel Creek in Begonia Nautical Parade, the blossoms eventually reaching the sea.

The festival began when begonia growers needed to make use of the end-of-season blossoms.

From September 2 to 9 the community tradition brings visitors from miles around, and many also take part in sand-sculpting, fishing and rowboat competitions.

Contact: for more information about the festival and Capitola, e-mail rruble@santacruzca.org