The weather recently has been, well, typical for the region, especially at this time of year. One day it’s cold and rainy; the next it’s time to break out the shorts again. But on those days in between the extremes, it’s glorious.

Luckily, we’re in one of those periods right now.

When the weather is like this, it almost seems like a sin to spend any amount of time indoors. Fortunately, the River Parishes in general and its plantations in particular know how to take advantage of this meteorological magnanimousness.

Tomorrow, the grounds of San Francisco Plantation will be transformed into a concert hall as the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra fills the spaces between the oak trees with classical music. Not your typical classical music, mind you, but the soundtracks to the Harry Potter and Indiana Jones movies — with some more traditional tunes thrown in for good measure. The day will also feature a gumbo cook off and a car show. Gates open at 9:30 a.m., and the music starts at 2 p.m.

And the good times in the great outdoors continue next weekend when Destrehan Plantation hosts its annual Fall Festival. A more traditional celebration than the one happening up River Road at San Francisco Plantation, the Fall Festival showcases some of the region and beyond’s most unique artists as well the famous local cuisine. The festival takes place Nov. 13-14 from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Take advantage of the good weather while you can before the madness of the holidays take over. You’ll be happy you did.