by Mark Pinkos

SATURDAY 5/27

SUFISM SYMPOSIUM 2000--Falling somewhere between a religion and an art form, Sufism embraces ecstatic dance, poetry, and mystical theology in its practice. This three-day public forum will explore contemporary Sufism as its influence spreads from its traditional Middle Eastern roots into the West. Doubletree Hotel, 300 112th SE, Bellevue, 835-5588, 3:30-10 pm. Registration fees range from $50 to $140.

WILDHORSE CAR SHOW--American automobile culture organizes another event in its own honor, this time in the arid eastern Oregon environs of Pendleton. Competitive categories range from vintage, all stock vehicles to tricked-out muscle cars. Winners can adjourn to the adjacent casino to blow all their prize money (or the deed to their '64 Continental) after the awards are handed out and automotive supremacy has been established. Wildhorse Casino Resort, Pendleton, OR, 800-654-WILD for info, 10 am-4 pm. Free admission, $20 for competition.

SUNDAY 5/28

PIKE PLACE MARKET STREET FESTIVAL--It would be a shame if the site where the Market stands now had become another uninteresting collection of high-rent condos à la Belltown. We have the foresight of a group of 1971 Seattleites to thank for their fight to save the historical heart of Seattle, and this festival marks the 29th anniversary of their victory. The usual street festival suspects--live music, craft vendors, beer gardens, and Market personalities--will all be up and running to provide entertaining diversions for the Memorial Day weekend. Pike Place Market, 10 am-6:30 pm, free.