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ALAMEDA


HOLIDAY WREATH MAKING: Supplies are provided, nature provides the ornaments. For 10 and older, ages 10-18 must be accompanied by an adult. 1 p.m. Dec. 1; Crab Cove Convention Center, 1252 McKay Ave; $25-$28; 510-544-3187.


TREE LIGHTING: Performances from Alameda Community Band, Oakland Youth Chorus, the Dancing Christmas Trees, The Mistle Tones; candy canes for children, visit from Santa Claus, followed by tree-lighting. Rain or shine. 4:30- 6:15 p.m. Dec. 7; Alameda City Hall, 2263 Santa Clara Ave.


SOLI DEO GLORIA-A JAZZY LITTLE CHRISTMAS: Newly arranged Christmas carols by Bob Chilcott, Michele Weir and director Allen H. Simon. Performance by the Dan Zemelman Trio. 3:30 -5:30 p.m. Dec. 8; Christ Episcopal Church of Alameda, 1700 Santa Clara; 510-523-7200.


ALAMO


TREE LIGHTING FESTIVAL: Choirs from local schools sing holiday songs. Santa will arrive at 4:45 p.m. for pictures and give children an opportunity to share their Christmas wishes. Contra Costa Food Bank is providing three barrels for nonperishable canned or boxed foods. 4:30-6:30 p.m. Dec. 1; Alamo Oak Tree Plaza next to Andrew H. Young Park, corner of Danville Boulevard and Jackson Way. http://alamochamberofcommerce.com[1] .


ANTIOCH


"AN EAST COUNTY CHRISTMAS": The Summerset Singers, an East County senior chorus, performs holiday favorites from Handel to The New Christy Minstrels, as well as an original composition from Nancy Bachmann. Various East County musicians from the Delta Strummers and the Summerset Big Band will provide accompaniment. 3 p.m. Dec. 8; El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St. $5-$15. 925-757-9500, www.elcampaniltheatre.com[2] .


"IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE": The beloved 1946 holiday film starring James Stewart will be screened 1 and 4 p.m. Dec. 14; El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. Second St. $7-$20. 925-757-9500, www.elcampaniltheatre.com[3] .


CHRISTMAS CANTATA: A musical story of the birth of Christ. Refreshments served after the show. 6 p.m. Dec. 14-15; First Missionary Baptist Church, 640 E. Tregallas Road. Free. www.antiochfmbc.com[4] , 925-757-8449.


ANTIOCH ANIMAL SERVICES HOWL-A-DAY EXPRESS: Arts and crafts activities, tree decorating, a visit with Mrs. Claus, an Ugly Holiday Sweater Contest and raffles. Back by popular demand is the Animal Rescue Group rematch with Dash verses Paw Print Rescue. Special adoption prices on many of the adoptable pets during the month of December. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Dec. 15; 300 L St. Free; monetary, food, treats, animal toys and blankets donations needed. www.facebook.com/AntiochAnimalServices[5] .


A CONCERT FOR CHRISTMAS: St. Ignatius Antioch Catholic Church presents a Christmas carols and music for the season. Organist Don Pearson accompanies. A reception follows in the parish hall. 7:30 p.m. Dec. 21; 3351 Contra Loma Blvd. Free; free will offering appreciated. 925-778-0768.


BAY POINT


TREE LIGHTING: Santa photos, seasonal greetings from elected officials, holiday songs with Riverview Middle School, free horse-drawn carriage rides, refreshments. Tree lighting and festivities begin 5:30 p.m. Dec. 5; Ambrose Community Center, 3105 Willow Pass Road. Free. 925-458-1601, www.ambroserec.org[6] .


BREAKFAST WITH SANTA: Includes holiday music featuring the Riverview Middle School Band and more. Proceeds will benefit the Bay Point Garden Club. 8-11 a.m. Dec. 14; Ambrose Community Center, 3105 Willow Pass Road. $3.50, free for children 12 and younger. 925-458-1601, www.ambroserec.org[7] .


SHERIFF'S ANNUAL CHRISTMAS DINNER AND TOY GIVEAWAY: Turkey dinner with all the trimmings, Santa photos and toy giveaway. 3-7 p.m. Dec. 21; Ambrose Community Center, 3105 Willow Pass Road. 925-458-1601.


BENICIA


HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE AND TREE LIGHTING: First Street merchants along with Benicia Main Street host this open house. Merchants offer beverages and treats and show off holiday goods while costumed carolers perform traditional Christmas tunes. Live entertainment, wagon rides and wine tasting are included. 6-9 p.m. Dec. 6; Main Street. 707-745-9791, www.beniciamainstreet.org[8] .


CHRISTMAS PARADE AND HOLIDAY MARKET: The parade features local marching bands, dancers, and Santa Claus. The Holiday Market features handcrafted arts and crafts, and gourmet good items. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Dec. 1. Parade begins 10 a.m. at First and D streets, and ends at H Street. 707-745-9791, www.beniciamainstreet.org[9] .


BERKELEY


BERKELEY ARTISANS HOLIDAY OPEN STUDIOS: A free self-guided tour of 100 professional artisan workshops.with all manner of fine art and crafts including blown glass, functional and decorative ceramics, ornaments, Menorahs, lamps and lighting, painted and custom furniture, garden art, floor cloths, clothing, textiles, dolls, leather bags, jewelry, sculpture, photography, paintings, original prints and works on paper, mosaics, and recycled materials. A 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Nov. 30, Dec. 1, 7-8, 14-15, 21-22; in various locations. Free. www.berkeleyartisans.com[10] .


CLERESTORY CHRISTMAS: A holiday concert with all-American works both old and new -- from wintry Native American sounds to familiar carols and classic American jazz. The concert will also feature works by Morten Lauridsen, William Billings, and John Jacob Niles, as well as Ray Charles, Joseph Jennings and Clerestory founder Jesse Antin. 8-9 p.m. Dec. 1; St. Mark's Episcopal Church, 2300 Bancroft. 510-848-5107.


BERKELEY FARMER'S MARKET HOLIDAY CRAFT FAIR: Local craft and fine art vendors set up next to the poplar Saturday Berkeley Farmers' Market. A benefit for the Ecology Center. 10 a.m. Dec. 7; Center Street in downtown Berkeley.


A BERKELEY NOEL: Free Church Berkeley offers a Christmas concert promoting a selfless spirit of giving. Performers include For Christ's Sake a Cappella (from UC Berkeley), Kairos Youth Choir, Free Church Berkeley choral recording artists Brittain Stafford, Rachel Wilson Clark and more. Benefits the Berkeley Holiday Fund for those in need in Berkeley. 7-9 p.m. Dec. 13; The Marsh Arts Center, 2120 Allston Way. Free. $10 donation appreciated. www.berkeleyholidayfund.org[11] .


TELEGRAPH AVENUE HOLIDAY STREET FAIR: This four-block event will take place featuring 200 craft vendors, food booths and musicians and other entertainers. The fair offers unique and unusual handicrafts, fine art originals and inexpensive holiday gift items. 10 a.m., Dec. 14; Telegraph Ave, Dwight to Bancroft Way. 510-654-6346, ext. 2.


GIFTS OF THE SEASON: SPIRIT, PEACE AND JOY: A concert presented by the Young Women's Chorus of San Francisco with spiritual, peaceful and joyful music by Hildegard von Bingen, Francesco Guerrero, Frank La Rocca, and Abbie Betinis, as well as familiar carols of the season with some audience singalong. 8 p.m. Dec. 14; St. Marks's Episcopal Church, 2300 Bancroft Way, 510-848-5107.


BERKELEY SNOW DAY: Bring your boots and mittens to play in the "snow" predicted to fall in Berkeley's Gourmet Ghetto, visit with the Snow Queen, ride the decorated live ponies, make holiday crafts, and enjoy hot cider and chewy cookies courtesy of Andronico's. Local craft vendors will have items for sale. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Dec. 8, 14; parking lot at 1673 Shattuck Ave. www.GourmetGhetto.org[12] .


SING THE CHRISTMAS CAROL AND HEAR THE CHRISTMAS STORY: This special service tells the Christmas story in 12 parts with Christmas songs. All faiths, walks of life welcome to this special service that features candle-lighting and an acoustic band. 7-8:30 p.m. Dec. 18; Grace North Church, 2138 Cedar St. Free. 510-548-2153.


BRENTWOOD


TREE LIGHTING: Highlights include musical performances by local vocal groups, hot drinks and goodies. 7 p.m. Dec. 6; City Park, 100 City Park Way. Free parking available at the City Park parking structure. 925-516-5444.


CLAYTON


CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY: Horse and carriage rides, Santa, Christmas tree Lighting. Gather at the gazebo for Christmas music and then stroll with Santa down Main Street for the tree lighting. Refreshments served. Bring new unwrapped toys for Toys for Tots. Carriage rides 4:30-6:30 p.m.; Santa arrives 6 p.m. Dec. 7, Downtown Clayton. Free. 925-672-2272.


DESSERT WITH MRS. CLAUS: Santa and Mrs. Claus will be on hand for photos and to hear the Christmas the wishes of children ages 12 and younger, who will receive a small gift. Barrels will be on site for collection of new unwrapped toys for Toys for Tots. Free, donations appreciated. 925-672-2272.


CONCORD


A SINGALONG MESSIAH: All are invited to sing, or simply listen to this glorious masterwork of Handel. The performance will be supported by musicians from the Contra Costa Chamber Orchestra, FPCC's Cathedral Choir, soloists. Jim Cismowski conducts. 7 p.m. Dec. 1; First Presbyterian Church of Concord, corner of Colfax and Salvio streets. Free; a freewill offering will be received to help cover expenses. All offerings received exceeding expenses, will benefit the significant work of the Bay Area Rescue Mission in Richmond. 925-676-7177.


RINGING IN THE HOLIDAYS: Santa and his elves will arrive on a bright red fire truck. He will hear children's holiday wishes and be available for photos. Other festivities include community and school choirs followed by the mayor's singalong and an official tree lighting. This year's holiday pin features the beacon on Mt. Diablo, that is lit annually to commemorate the day. A salute to Pearl Harbor veterans will be included in the program. ABC 7 news anchor Dan Ashely will emcee. 4-6 p.m. Dec. 7; Todos Santos Plaza, 2151 Salvio St., 925-671-3464, www.concordfirst.org[13] .


SANTA COMES TO BUCHANAN FIELD: Santa will hand out candy canes and have his photo taken with children. Event is behind the Crown Plaza Hotel, and in the event of rain, will be moved inside the hotel. 10 a.m. Dec. 7; 45 John Glenn Drive. Free. For those who wish to have a photo taken, bring canned food or monetary donations for the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano. 925-646-5722.


DANVILLE


LIGHTING OF THE OLD OAK TREE: Gather around the Diablo Road landmark oak tree and hear music by the Danville Girls Chorus and the San Ramon Valley High School chorus. Father Christmas and the Snow Angel will sprinkle the Old Oak Tree with fairy dust to kick off the Danville holiday season. Festivities include street-corner musicians, browsing shops and holiday goodies provided by the Danville merchants. 5:15-8:30 p.m. Nov. 29. Parking available at Danville municipal parking lots and the Community Presbyterian Church, 222 W. El Pintado Road.


A COUNTRY CHRISTMAS: The White Kitty Foundation presents a holiday pet photo fundraiser. Photo includes sitting fee and on full-size digital image emailed to you. All images will be posted online and available for separate purchase. Appointments encouraged, walk-ins welcome. 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Dec. 7; Danville Paw Spa, 581 San Ramon Valley Boulevard. $40. Proceeds benefit The White Kitty Foundation. 925-837-2411.


DISCOVERY BAY


YACHT CLUB LIGHTED BOAT PARADE: The annual parade features festively decorated boats for the holidays. 5-8 p.m. Dec. 14; parade begins in Lighthouse Bay and finishes at the Discovery Bay Yacht Club, 5871 Marina Road. Free. 925-634-1210.


CHILDREN'S CHRISTMAS PARTY: Lunch, Christmas caroling, amazing magic show with magician Gerald Joseph. Lunch 11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m.; caroling 12:15-12:45 p.m.; magic show 1 p.m.; Santa arrives 2 p.m. Dec. 15; Discovery Bay Yacht Club, 5871 Marina Road. Children's lunch is free, adults $5. R.S.V.P by Dec. 12. 925-216-4411, pat4411@gmail.com[14] .


DUBLIN


HOLIDAY CRAFT BOUTIQUE: Features handmade arts and crafts and other unique items for gift giving. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Nov. 16; Dublin Senior Center, 7600 Amador Valley Blvd. Free. 925-556-4511, seniorctr@dublin.ca.gov[15] .


BREAKFAST WITH SANTA: Santa Claus will be on hand for a breakfast of pancakes, sausage, fruit and beverages. Proceeds benefit the Dublin High School Irish Guard Band. Santa will be available for photos. Three seating times are available: 8:30, 9:45 and 11 a.m. Dec. 14. Shannon Community Center, 11600 Shannon Ave. $10-$12. 925-556-4500.


EL CERRITO


HOLIDAY ART SALE AND SHOW: Garden Delights Arts & Crafts and other local shops feature a wide range of handcrafted and original gifts, handmade jewelry, wearable art, purses, scarves, cards and prints, boxes, home decor, books, soaps, candles and more. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Dec. 11-15; The Village Shops and Galleries, 10330 San Pablo Ave. Free. http://GardenDelightsArts.com[16] .


EMERYVILLE


GRINCH DAY CELEBRATION STORY TIME: "How the Grinch Stole Christmas," a children's story time reading. 3 p.m. Dec. 1; Barnes & Noble Booksellers, 5604 Bay St. 510-547-0905.


LAFAYETTE


THE BETHLEHEM EXPERIENCE: An interactive performance in which tour guides will lead groups through the marketplace of Bethlehem on the night of the Messiah's birth. A feast for the senses with the smell of exotic spices, the festive sound of Jewish music, robed and sandaled merchants in their stalls, the taste of freshly baked unleavened bread, live animals in the stable, and the soft feel of flaxen "swaddling clothes." Refreshments served. 5:30- 8 p.m. Dec. 21-22; Lafayette United Methodist Church, 955 Moraga Road. Tours begin every 15 minutes. Freewill donation: $5 per person or $20 per family. 925-284-4765.


LIVERMORE


DICKENS CHRISTMAS FAIRE: A Victorian holiday event featuring handmade crafts, gifts, toys, refreshments, and a chance to visit Father Christmas. Live performers will enact scenes from Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol" throughout the weekend with dancing and musical entertainment between acts. High Tea will be offered at 4 p.m. both days for $15. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Nov. 30 and noon-5 p.m. Dec. 1; St. Bartholomew Episcopal Church, 678 Enos Way. $10; free for ages 5 and younger. www.saintbartslivermore.com[17] .


DEACON DAVE'S ANNUAL CHRISTMAS DISPLAY: Opening ceremonies includes an Advent/Christmas Procession, which will along Hillcrest Ave. When the procession arrives the opening ceremonies begin. During the ceremony Deacon Dave will announce this years theme and bless the lights and folks. Deacon's display has added thousands of new LED lights for this year's event. Opening night 6:30 p.m. Nov. 30, Displays 6-9 p.m. Sundays through Thursdays; 6-10 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Night; 6-9 p.m. Dec. 26-Jan. 1 and 6-8 p.m. New Year Eve; gates close, lights remain on until midnight. Casa del Pomba, 352 Hillcrest Ave. Free.


HOLIDAY SIGHTS AND SOUNDS PARADE AND TREE LIGHTING: The event features local marching bands, music, light displays, and Santa Claus. Tree lighting to follow parade. Parade route is First Street from M Street to McLeod Street. The lighting of "Bruce Sprucetree" will be at the corner of First Street and South Livermore Avenue. No dogs or animals allowed inside the event enclosure. 6 p.m. Dec. 7; Downtown Livermore. Free.


ASBURY CHRISTMAS CONCERT: Asbury United Methodist Church will feature vocal choirs, the church band, several instrumentalists, bell ringers and a pipe organ. 7 p.m. Dec. 8; 4743 East Ave. Free. 925-447-1950.


OAKLAND


AMERICA'S CHILDREN'S HOLIDAY PARADE: Features such characters as Charlie Brown and the "Peanuts" gang, Strawberry Shortcake, Garfield, the Berenstein Bears, and more, along with floats, giant balloons, marching bands and other entertainment. The parade will head through downtown Oakland beginning at 11th Street, turn up Clay Street, make a right turn onto 14th Street for one block and then turn left on Broadway proceeding to 20th Street and Lake Merritt. 2 p.m. Dec. 7, www.americas-holiday-parade.com[18] .


SNOW AND SANTA IN ROCKRIDGE: The Rockridge District Association hosts Santa and his elves, live holiday music, pony rides, and a lot of snow. Donations for One Warm Coat and Toys for Tots encouraged. 3-6 p.m. Nov. 30; Rockridge BART Station, 5660 College Ave. www.rockridgedistrict.com[19] .


OAKLAND ZOO: Hundreds of thousands of LED lights brighten Oakland Zoo's night sky. Festivities include rides, a nighttime train adventure, Santa, rocking around the Christmas trees in the Children's Zoo, and a light show. 5:30 -9 p.m. Nov. 29-Jan. 5. And the California Revels, a Bay Area performance group, will present its blend of traditional music, dance, ritual and folk plays at 1 p.m. Dec. 7; free with zoo admission. 9777 Golf Links Road. 510-632-9225, www.oaklandzoo.org[20] .


HOLIDAY STROLL: Features caroling with the Pacific Boy Choir Academy, Piedmont East Bay Children's Choir, Edna Brewer Middle School, Zion Lutheran Choir, Corpus Christi School MUSE Band, St. John's Episcopal Church and the Bishop O'Dowd Brass Ensemble. Donate a toy to Oakland Firefighters Random Acts Toy Drive, then follow the tap dancing trees for a visit with Santa. 5:30-8 p.m. Dec. 5; Mountain Boulevard and Antioch Court, Montclair Village. www.montclairvillage.com[21] .


JACK LONDON SQUARE: Hosts an evening of festivities including lighting of 55-foot Mount Shasta fir tree, holiday music, live reindeer, tap dancing Christmas trees, costumed characters and more. 5-7:30 p.m. Dec. 6; Jack London Square, Broadway and Embarcadero. Free. www.jacklondonsquare.com/events.php[22] .


HOLIDAY CAROLING ON LAKE MERRITT: Enjoy a caroling boat ride around Lake Merritt after some hot cider and cookies in the holiday room. Song sheets provided. 4-8 p.m. Dec. 6, 12, 13, 19, 20; 3 p.m.-8 p.m. Dec. 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22; Lake Merritt Boating Center, 568 Bellevue Ave. $6; $100 for private charter up to 19 people. 510-238-2196, www.sailoakland.com[23] .


SPLASH OF COLOR AT LANEY COLLEGE: Jeremiah Selvey conducts the Oakland East Bay Gay Men's Chorus in a holiday concert including classic carols as well as African, spiritual, and gospel and gospel-style music. Juanita Harris is guest soloist. 7:30-9 p.m. Dec. 7; Laney-Odell Johnson Theater, 900 Fallon St, www.brownpapertickets.com[24] .


JINGLETOWN WINTER ARTWALK: Jingletown Arts & Business Community presents its annual Winter Art Walk. The open studio event involves more than 50 community artists. There will be food trucks featuring local products and the annual T-Sisters Parade. 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Dec. 8; situated between the Park and Fruitvale Street bridges. Free. www.jingletown.org[25] .


HOME, HOLIDAYS AND HARMONY: A winter concert featuring music from several holiday traditions. Performers include the Crescendo Choir, Joyful Noise and others. 7 p.m., Dec. 14; First Unitarian Church, 685 Fourteenth St., Hamilton Hall. www.uuoakland.org[26] .


DUNSMUIR ESTATE: The mansion presents its annual holiday tours, teas, winter cafe, carriage rides, brunch with Santa, gift shop, live entertainment, holiday crafts, kids's zone, group tours and more. Special events: The Oakland Ballet's Hands-On Dance Workshop, featuring excerpts from the "Nutcracker Suite" Dec. 15, The Puppet Company's Wacky Winter, Dec. 22. Saturdays and Sundays only noon-4 p.m., Dec. 7-22; Dunsmuir Hellman Historic Estate, 2960 Peralta Oaks, Ct. 510-238-3052, t www.dunsmuir-hellman.com[27] .


SAN FRANCISCO BOYS CHORUS: The choir performs a winter concert featuring works by Mozart, Bach, and Palestrina, alongside with classic holiday tunes. 8 to 10 p.m., Dec. 21; Cathedral of Christ the Light, 2121 Harrison St., $10-$30; www.sfbc.org[28] .


OAKLEY


CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING: This annual event will begin with performances by the Oakley Elementary School District Choir and Freedom High School Choir; followed by kids' activities and Santa Claus photo opportunities. 5 p.m. Dec. 7, tree lighting 6:15 p.m.; Oakley Civic Center Plaza; 3231 Main St. Free. 925-625-7044.


BRUNCH WITH SANTA: Features pancakes, eggs and more. Bring your camera for a photo with Santa. Noon and 2 p.m. seatings Dec. 14; Black Bear Diner, 3201 Main St. Reservation required. $7-$9. 925-625-7044.


BOY SCOUT TROOP 152 CHRISTMAS TREE LOT: Offering Noble and Douglas fir trees, wreaths and ornaments. Drop off toys for Toys for Tots. 4-8 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays; 4-9 p.m. Fridays; 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturdays; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Sundays; 3460 Main St. For prices to to www.troop152treelot.com[29] .


PITTSBURG


HOLIDAY CONCERT: Featuring United States Air Force Band of the Golden West Concert Band. 7 p.m. Dec. 10; Pittsburg High School, Creative Arts Building, 250 School St. Free tickets are available at the Pittsburg Chamber of Commerce, 985 Railroad Ave. Limit of six tickets per family. 925-432-7301, www.pittsburgchamber.org[30] .


HOLIDAY PARADE: The annual Holiday Parade returns to Old Town with floats, marching units, dance, drill teams and more. Free. 11 a.m. Dec. 14; Railroad Avenue, between Eighth and Third streets. 925-252-6970, www.pittsburgfoundation.org[31] .


PLEASANT HILL


DIABLO VALLEY COLLEGE HOLIDAY BRUNCH AND BAZAAR: Includes visit from Santa, entertainment by Shellie Award-winner Judy Ryken, silent auction, raffles and prizes. Supports Emeritus College programs. 10:30 a.m. Dec. 7; Diablo Valley College, Diablo Room, 321 Golf Club Road. $10-$30. 925-969-4316, www.dvc.edu/adult/emeritus[32] .


TREE LIGHTING: An evening of merriments with a tree lighting, pictures with Santa, live entertainment, free carriage rides, arts, crafts treasure hunt, caroling and more. 5-8 p.m. Dec, 4; Downtown Pleasant Hill. Tree lighting at 6 p.m. Free. 925-671-5229, http://www.ci.pleasant-hill.ca.us[33] , mnelis@ci.pleasant-hill.ca.us[34] .


PLEASANTON


INTERNATIONAL HOLIDAY: The Pleasanton Community Concert Band presents its winter concert with music from England, Russie, Spain, Israel and more. 2 p.m. Dec. 1; Firehouse Arts Center, 4444 Railroad Ave. Free; donations appreciated. 925-846-5897, www.pleasantonband.org[35] .


HOLIDAY PARADE AND TREE LIGHTING: The city of Pleasanton will host the holiday event along Main Street in downtown Pleasanton. The parade will kick off with local high school marching bands, followed by dozens of holiday-inspired entries including Pleasanton's Balloon Platoon, hundreds of Cub Scouts and Brownies, local car clubs and dog clubs, and more. Other events include community sing-a-long, and an appearance by Santa. 5 -7:30 p.m., Dec. followed by the lighting of a holiday tree in front of the Museum on Main, Downtown Pleasanton.


SAN JOSE


CHRISTMAS IN THE PARK. Plaza de Cesar Chavez will become a park festively decorated with lights, elves and Christmas trees through December. The annual event kicks off with tree-lighting ceremony at 6 p.m. Nov. 29. The park is located at Market and Park streets, near the Fairmont Hotel. 408-297-9627. www.christmasinthepark.com[36] .


HARVEST FESTIVAL ART AND CRAFT SHOW: Showcases thousands of handmade gifts including jewelry, wood turnings, art and photography, specialty foods, blown glass, toys, clothing, entertainment and more. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Nov. 29-30; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Dec. 1; San Jose Convention Center, 150 W. San Carlos St. $4-$9. Free for 12 and younger. www.harvestfestival.com[37] .


DOWNTOWN ICE. Ice skating has returned to the Circle of the Palms next to the Fairmont Hotel, through Jan. 12. Hours vary from day to day. 120 Market St. 408-291-0525. http://sjdowntown.com/downtownice[38] .


SAN RAMON


BAH HUMBUG 5K RUN/WALK: Participants will receive a holiday long-sleeved T-shirt and goody bag. Medals are given to the first three finishers in each age divisions. Costume awards will be given for most Grinch-like, best holiday spirit and best group theme. 7:30-8:50 a.m. race day registration, Dec. 1; Bishop Ranch corner of Camino Ramon and Bishop Drive. Registration fee $40 day of race. www.active.com[39] .


HAPPY HOLIDAYS MUSICAL REVUE: San Ramon Community Theater performs favorite holiday songs and holiday story appropriate for all ages. 7 p.m., Friday and Saturday, 2 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 22 and Sunday, Dec. 6 through Dec. 22; Front Row Theater, Dougherty Station, Performing Arts Center, 17011 Bollinger Canyon Road. Tickets are $16 for adults, and $13 for seniors and youth 12 and under and can be purchased at www.sanramonperformingarts.com[40] or call 925-973-3343.


SILENT AUCTION AND HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE: The American Association of University Women San Ramon member artisans' crafts will be on sale as well as gift basket drawing throughout the evening. The event also features light appetizers and desserts with coffee and cider. The Boutique's proceeds will support scholarships for San Ramon high school senior girls and California State University, East Bay Renaissance Scholars. 7-8:30 p.m., Dec. 5; San Ramon Community Center, Terrace Room, 12501 Alcosta Blvd. Free. 925-828-8275.


BISHOP RANCH TREE LIGHTING: Family activities include lighting of a 65-foot holiday tree, live music provided by local school choirs; sleigh rides; a snow play area for kids ages 12 and younger; photo opportunities with Santa. Refreshments will be available. One Warm Coat and Food Bank of Contra Costa will be on hand to accept donations. 5:30-7:30 p.m., Dec. 7; Bishop Ranch One -6111 Bollinger Canyon Road. Free. 925-866-0100.


HOLIDAYS ON THE FARM: Two of Santa's reindeer will visit the farm, which will offer tours of the Glass House Museum decorated for the holidays, visits with a Victorian Santa and Victorian ornament making. Stuff your own teddy bear, play old-fashioned games, enjoy tractor rides, watch sheepdog demonstrations. Refreshments available for purchase. Some activities include fee. 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Dec. 7 and 14; Forest Home Farms Historic Park, 19953 San Ramon Valley Blvd. Park admission free. 925-973-3284.


HORNS FOR THE HOLIDAYS: Concert by 55-member San Ramon Symphonic Band, under the direction of Larry B. Colon, featuring classic melodies, patriotic music and movie and show tunes. 7 p.m. Dec. 20; Dougherty Valley Performing Arts Center, 10550 Albion Road; $6 children 11 and younger and students with ID are free. 925-973-2787.


SAN MATEO


HARVEST FESTIVAL ART AND CRAFT SHOW: Showcases thousands of handmade gifts including jewelry, wood turnings, art and photography, specialty foods, blown glass, toys, clothing, entertainment and more. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Nov. 15-16; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Nov. 17; Expo Hall, San Mateo Event Center, 1346 Saratoga Drive. $4-$9. Free for 12 and younger. www.harvestfestival.com[41] .


SANTA CLARA


HOLIDAY GIFT FAIR AND FAMILY ART DAY: Enjoy holiday shopping featuring handmade gifts from local artists. Items include: jewelry, spa items, fabric gifts, ceramics, and much more. There will be live performances from local arts groups, hot cider for sale, and free art activities for children. Presented by Triton Museum of Art. Proceeds benefit local artisans and the Triton Museum of Art's education and exhibition programs. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Dec. 7-8; 1505 Warburton Ave. Free. 408-247-3754, www.tritonmuseum.org[42] .


WALNUT CREEK


CHRISTMAS SINGALONG: Live piano accompaniment, lyrics will be projected on a big screen, refreshments served. 7 p.m. Dec. 6; St. John Vianney Catholic Church, Mullen Commons Vista Room (across from church), 1650 Ygnacio Valley Road. Admission at the door $5-18; children younger than 6, free. 925-939-7911, www.sjvianney.org[43] .


HOSPICE OF THE EAST BAY'S TREE OF LIGHTS: Enjoy music, poetry and remembrances by family members and Hospice staff. Dedicate a light for a loved one. 5 p.m. Dec. 4; Creekside Clubhouse, 1010 Stanley Dollar Drive, Walnut Creek; 4:30 p.m. Dec. 7; 31 Orinda Way, Orinda; 5:30 p.m. Dec. 8; Moraga Country Club, 1600 St. Andrews Drive, Moraga. 12:15 p.m. Dec. 11; Alamo Women's Club, 1401 Danville Blvd., Alamo. 925-887-5678.


31ST ANNUAL HOLIDAY FAIRE: Featuring hundreds of handcrafted items for sale, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Nov. 30-Dec. 15. Three-course tea luncheons with seatings at 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.; Shadelands Ranch Museum, 2660 Ygnacio Valley Road. $30. Reservations required: 925-935-7871.


CHRISTMAS CONCERT: Voices of Musica Sacra performs a variety of Christmas music featuring Britten's "A Ceremony of Carols" with harp accompaniment by John R.S. Walko. Included are songs by Ives, Byrd, Burt, and a carol singalong. 8 p.m. Dec. 6; St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 1924 Trinity Ave and 3 p.m. Dec. 8; St Stephen Catholic Church, 1101 Keaveny Court. $5-$20. www.vmschorus.org[44] .


HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS: Diablo Women's Choir presents a concert featuring Stephen Evan's cello choir and special guests with holiday songs, jazzy tunes from Broadway, audience singalong and more. 3 p.m. Dec. 7; Mt. Diablo Unitarian Church, 55 Eckley Lane, $10-$15. 510-914-5822.


TEDDY BEAR TEA: Enjoy a variety of teatime treats, story time, souvenir photo, goodies for each child, raffles and a holiday gift boutique. Dec. 7-8; Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive. 925-947-1678, www.gardenshf.org[45] .


SILVER & GOLD HOLIDAY BRUNCH: Contra Costa Real Estate in Motion hosts a holiday brunch with entertainment, an auction and raffles. The brunch will benefit the United States Marine Corps Toys for Tots, Christmas for Everyone and the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano. 8-10 p.m. Dec. 10; St. Stephen Church, 1101 Keaveny Court. Admission is $20 and a new unwrapped toy or canned food item; $25 at the door. Contact: Cathy Lee, 925-351-6118, cathyleestaging@gmail.com[46] .


"THE STORY" -- GOD'S REDEMPTIVE PLAN THROUGH LIVING ART: Famous works by da Vinci, Michelangelo and others are re-created onstage with elaborate sets and living models. Accompanied by As vocalists, an orchestra and narrator. 7 p.m. Dec. 12 and 13; 3 and 7 p.m. Dec. 14; North Creek Church, 2303 Ygnacio Valley Road. Tickets start at $7. 800-269-8223, www.thestoryinart.com[47] .



References



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  34. ^ mnelis@ci.pleasant-hill.ca.us (www.mercurynews.com)

  35. ^ www.pleasantonband.org (www.pleasantonband.org)

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  40. ^ www.sanramonperformingarts.com (www.sanramonperformingarts.com)

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  43. ^ www.sjvianney.org (www.sjvianney.org)

  44. ^ www.vmschorus.org (www.vmschorus.org)

  45. ^ www.gardenshf.org (www.gardenshf.org)

  46. ^ cathyleestaging@gmail.com (www.mercurynews.com)

  47. ^ www.thestoryinart.com (www.thestoryinart.com)



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