FEB. 22-24

RETREAT TO VOLCANO

Wordsmiths know that something about Volcano Village on the Big Island can summon creativity.

"Writing for Power, Heart & Vision," Volcano Art Center's 10th Annual Weekend Writer's Retreat led by Instructor Tom Peek, will guide 14 creative writers — in all genres and at any level of experience — through exercises, discussion of the writing process, and sharing of work.

"One reason the retreat has remained popular is its friendly, nonjudgmental atmosphere that gives people opportunities to share the important stories of their lives," says Peek. The retreat is from 5 p.m. Friday through 3 p.m. Sunday at Volcano Hale. The $225 fee includes six catered meals.

Optional housing in private rooms (with shared bath) is available for an additional $130 for two nights. 808-967-8222, www.volcanoartcenter.org.

MARCH 18-NOV. 2

ON BUTTERFLIES

Hundreds of living butterflies, the insect world's goodwill ambassadors, will be on show at "The Butterfly Zone: Plants and Pollinators," an exhibition at San Francisco's Conservatory of Flowers in Golden Gate Park. Visitors can watch as hundreds of butterflies fly between brightly colored blossoms drinking nectar and getting covered in pollen. It's a fascinating display of pollination in action. The Butterfly Bungalow, in the center of the exhibition, shelters the pupae in their chrysalises. You may just be lucky enough to catch the moment when a transformed, winged beauty emerges. $5, 415-666-7001. www.conservatoryofflowers.org.

APRIL 26-MAY 2

TAKING TEA

Thousands of tea lovers, experts and producers visit Shanghai annually for the International Tea Culture Festival. As well as impressive tea ceremonies, visitors get to taste many varieties, attend seminars and visit famous tea spots around the city.

Around 5,000 years ago, Chinese people discovered that tea leaves could relieve thirst, refresh the mind and even cure some diseases. For nearly 100 years, Shanghai has remained the biggest distribution center and market for tea in China. As a result, teahouse culture, tea parties and many other tea-related events are active in Shanghai. www.shanghaihighlights.com; click on Activities and Events.