SCOTLAND: ON THE FRINGE

It's hard to argue with claims of being Britain's No. 1 tourist attraction and the world's largest arts fest. With nearly 19,000 performers from more than 60 countries expected this year, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe promises something for everyone: theater, comedy, music, dance, exhibitions and more. The fest opens Aug. 7 and runs through the end of the month.

Details: For festival info, check out Edfringe.com. For information about travel to Scotland, go to www.visitscotland.com.

VERMONT: SAY CHEESE!

In a bid to become the nation's Big Cheese of Cheese, dozens of Vermont's artison cheesemakers are gathering in Shelburne next month for what they hope will become an annual event, the Vermont Cheesemakers Festival. Visitors can sample more than 100 types of cheese from 40 different cheesemakers, a variety of locally produced wines and beers, and artisan foods such as maple syrup, honey, chocolates, baked goods and more. The fest will also feature four tasting seminars on pairing cheese with wine, beer and other foods.

Details: The main event will be Aug. 23 at Shelburne Farms. Tickets and info available online at www.vtcheesefest.com.

FLORIDA: PLAYING POSSUM

Wausau, the panhandle town that proudly calls itself as the ''Possum Captial of the World,'' is gearing up for its 40th annual tribute to the lowly critter, which the town holds in high esteem. Join the fun on Aug. 1 with activities from the Possum Parade to possum auctions, possum stew and ice cream. Sounds yummy. Not to ignore those of other animal persuasions, festival organizers are planning some hog callin', rooster crowin' and cow lowin' contests too.

Details: Admission is free. 850-638-1781 or www.wausaupossumfestival.com

MEXICO: OLE! OLE!

Like bullfighters and soccer stars, mariachi bands are a symbol of nationalism and culture in Mexico, and every year the city of Guadalajara hosts the International Mariachi Festival to celebrate the music. This year's fest, Aug. 31-Sept 10, features a packed program, including Catholic masses accompanied by mariachis in the Guadalajara Cathedral, a parade featuring floats of mariachi groups and folk ballet artists, mariachi competitions at the Benito Jurez theatre, rodeos, art exhibitions -- and plenty of food and drink.

Details: A full program and other festival information in Spanish is on the official website, www.mariachi-jalisco.com.mx/. For info in English, check out http://mexicolesstraveled.com/marachifestival.htm.

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