Birdhouse Day at LBJ State Park outside of Stonewall provides activities on birds and their habitats, Feb. 6, 10am-noon. 830/644-2252.

Vegas on the Gulf is the theme of Mardi Gras week in Galveston with parties, parades, and concerts, Feb. 5-16. 888/425-4753 or http://www.galvestontourism.com.

Marriage of the Port Ceremony accompanies every tour at the Messina-Hof Wine Cellars outside of Bryan. The winemaker mixes brandy and red wine to make the port, which will be available for sampling along with wedding cake, Feb. 6-20. 409/778-9463.

Coming up …

Merlot and Chocolate at Becker Vineyards combines the red wine with handmade European bon bons created by Chef Frans Hendricks of the Bistro Time Restaurant of San Antonio, Feb. 13-14. 830/644-2681.

Cajun Mardi Gras information is available at http://www.lsue.edu. In a tradition that dates back to the 19th century, horsemen ride through four Louisiana parishes Feb. 12-16 begging for food and starting parties and parades as they go.

Day Trips, Vol.2, a book of Day Trips 101-200, is now available for $8.95, plus $3.05 for shipping, handling, and tax. Mail to: Day Trips, P.O. Box 33284, South Austin, TX 78704. 401th in a Series. Collect them all.

This article appears in February 5 • 1999 and February 5 • 1999 (Cover).

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Gerald E. McLeod joined the Chronicle staff in November 1980 as a graphic designer. In April 1991 he began writing the “Day Trips” column. Besides the weekly travel column, he contributed “101 Swimming Holes,” “Guide to Central Texas Barbecue,” and “Guide to the Texas Hill Country.” His first 200 columns have been published in Day Trips Vol. I and Day Trips Vol. II.