Strauss relief

Forget Downton Abbey. The Strauss clan has been reppin' European nobility since the early 19th century. A British miniseries back in 1972 called The Strauss Family dramatized the famous Austrian family (Johann Strauss I, Johann Strauss II, Josef Strauss, Edward Strauss and Johann Strauss III), most notable for its contributions to classical music—specifically the waltz. This weekend, fans can celebrate the musical dynasty at the Strauss Festival of Elk Grove. The free festival features nonprofessional waltz and polka troupes in costume, twirling and stepping to waltzes played by a live orchestra, all in front of what the festival's website calls “elaborate handcrafted sets.” Lawn seating, geese and fireworks add to the romantic outdoor ambience each night. Free ($10 for parking); at 8 p.m. on July 24, through July 27, at Elk Grove Regional Park's Strauss Island, 9950 Elk Grove Florin Road in Elk Grove; (916) 714-2527; www.straussfestival.com.