Celebrate Saratoga!, the annual event that showcases the best of downtown, is being held on Sept. 18. On that day, Big Basin Way will close to traffic at 2 p.m. as locals and people from nearby cities take part in the celebration.

"The plans are on schedule. This will be the 16th year of celebrations," said Kristin Davis, executive director of the Saratoga Chamber of Commerce.

Many village restaurants will be setting up booths outside, so that visitors can sample their menu. Eleven local wineries and some microbreweries are also participating in the event.

"There will also be a fun zone for children with all kinds of activities," said Davis. And, as in previous years, there will be music on five stages in the area.

"People come here to sample the food and then end up having dinner at the restaurants," said Davis.

She said that restaurants and merchants in the Village were the first priority, but food vendors from outside who wanted to set up a booth on that day would be welcome, too.

About 35,000 people are expected for the event.

"This is the city's biggest event, with people coming from surrounding areas to enjoy themselves," said Davis.

Parking will be available at West Valley College and Argonaut Shopping Center and shuttle buses will run continuously during the course of event.

The Chamber of Commerce organizes the festival while the city sponsors the fun zone for children. It also helps with the barricades and street closure.

"We have fun, it generates business and it promotes downtown Saratoga," said Davis.

As in previous years, about 400 volunteers will be needed during the event. Help is also needed before the event starts. For more information, call the Saratoga Chamber of Commerce at 408.867.0753.