I've been avoiding posting in this thread, because I'm not certain I can commit to being there next year. As many of you know, Mr Osuche is not a Pixies fan. We *might* not be together by PAGAN '09...in which case I am there
But that's not possible to predict at this point.
I would recommend a couple of places, and I would be happy to help coordinate (ideally with someone more local). One would be the Leelenau Peninsula in Michigan -- we could do a winery tour, have a day at the beach, and see some other sights. It's pretty up there. The second would be Port Clinton, Ohio -- there's Cedar Point amusement park, wineries, a day at the beach, and a cool old lighthouse there. I have ideas where to stay in each place.
Speaking of lodging, I want to make a unique suggestion. I *LOVE* using vrbo.com for vacation rentals -- you can find large houses for rent at decent prices. If everyone was willing to share bathrooms, there would be easy social congregating spaces (living room, kitchen, porch/deck) AND you could save $$$. One other suggestion is that everyone could chip in to cook a meal or so together - which would save even more $$$.
And cooking together could be fun!!
I did this set-up for a big family reunion in August and it was simply the best arrangement. Those who want to sleep, can...the rest of us took hikes, stayed up late drinking wine in front of the fireplace, and played games.
Here are some examples near Port Clinton:
http://www.vrbo.com/47763 -- $400 per bedroom ($200/person) for a WEEK (if you want to stay that long)
http://www.vrbo.com/19740 -- $76/bedroom/night!
http://www.vrbo.com/200183 - $125/night/room