It's Christmas time in the city, but if all the bright lights and busy streets (or maybe that marathon series of “It's a Wonderful Life” you couldn't pass up) have you yearning for a small-town Christmas, there's no better destination than Nevada City, California, and its annual Victorian Christmas celebration. This gingerbread-decorated hamlet in the Sierra foothills, about a 2 ½-hour drive from San Francisco, is like a portal back in time. Read on to find out where to stay, eat, and play.

Before Christmas, two WednesdayFor the three Sundays in December, most of downtown is closed to through traffic and opened to a bustling activity. Carolers, wandering minstrels, jugglers, costumed characters, horse-drawn carriage rides, local musicians, including many children, and other local talent perform in the streets while families stroll from vendor to vendor sampling, sipping, snacking and purchasing their wares. The atmosphere is warm and inviting as locals and tourists alike are there.

SantaBaby
At the bottom of Broad Street (the main drag), Santa will be available for photo ops. For $5, children and groups can have their picture taken with Santa. The money goes to a local charity – and photos are not required. If your little ones are camera shy or want to cross seeing Santa twice off their list, any child can chat with old Santa.

Bonus: There's also balloon art and a bouncy castle for the kids. Also, keep an eye out for jugglers and magicians.

Roasting chestnuts over an open fire
In addition to spiced cider, mulled wine and barbecued food, there will be chestnuts roasted over a real open fire every night. Cecil Snow, the city's favourite Victorian chimney sweep, will be stoking the fire and selling the chestnuts. This is not to be missed.

Decorate the halls
In addition to the unique gifts sold throughout the streets by local artists and artisans, the United Methodist Church at the top of Broad Street hosts an open house and craft market. It's the perfect place to escape the cold, enjoy the festive atmosphere with Santa, apple cider, cookies and music, beautiful decorations, and use the restroom! Or visit the Nevada City Craft Fair on Sunday, December 11 In the historic Miners Foundry you will find a wide selection of artisan gifts.

Photo by Erin Thiem, outsideinn.com

Park your car
Parking is very limited and it can be frustrating when a whole troupe of carolers is ready to hit the road, so drop them off and park your car at the Nevada County Government Center, then take the shuttle back to town. There is a $5 fee on the ride into town, but it's free on the way back to the car! Check out the Nevada City Chamber of Commerce website for more information.

Good night everyone
There are many bed and breakfasts, hotels and motels in this area. The Outside Inn is a family and pet friendly motel style accommodation that is within walking distance of all of downtown Nevada City. Or if you'If you're looking for something unique, rent an RV and try the new Inn Town Campground, less than two miles from downtown Nevada City.

The Northern Queen Inn offers reasonable rates and its own Christmas lights – plus you can choose between traditional rooms or little cabins in the pines! It's a little further away than the Outside Inn, but it's still within walking distance of downtown.

What to wear
Dress for the occasion, but wear your warmest clothes. It's not unusual for snow to fall this time of year! Wool coats and capes and top hats are also appropriate! Bring gloves, hats and scarves for the kids, and wear good walking shoes. Most activities are outdoors, and Nevada City is hilly. The main street, Broad Street, is a long, rolling hill, so wear comfortable shoes.

When: Sundays, December 411th and 18th of 1:30 p.m.–6:00 p.m. and Wednesdays 14 and 21 December out of 5pm-9pm

A fairy tale about two cities
The neighboring town of Grass Valley, which is equally charming, celebrates a similar Cornish Christmas that begins the Friday after Thanksgiving and runs through December 20th. Mill Street and Main Street are closed off and the cool mountain air is filled with the scent of roasted chestnuts, kettle corn and pasties. Make it a weekend of super-retro Christmas celebrations and have the best time – experience both events in one weekend. For more information on Cornish Christmas, visit the Grass Valley Chamber of Commerce website.

Have you ever celebrated the season in Nevada City? Tell us about it in the comments below!

–Erin Thiem and Amber Guetebier

All photos courtesy of Nevada City Chamber of Commerce unless otherwise noted

The post Victorian Christmas Celebration in Nevada Metropolis, CA appeared first on Los Gatos News And Events.

SAN FRANCISCO, CA – (December 2019) The historic Cow Palace is being redesigned again Dickens's Londonnow in the 36th season, The Great Dickens Christmas Market now takes place on Saturdays and Sundays until December 23, 2018, to offer visitors an incomparable, wonderfully immersive holiday experience.

Holiday fantasies at the Great Dickens Christmas Fair

The Big Dickens Christmas Market and Victorian Holiday Party is very special and a festive treat that I want everyone to experience. The Dickens Fair is truly amazing! Illuminated to look like London in the sparkling setting sun, with over three acres of exhibition space, endless amusements, crafts and games, and fine dining and drinking to your heart's content. There are 800 performers, all dressed in period correct clothing, who take classes to learn how to act and speak in Victorian London. I suggest you put on a costume yourself and take in all the magic.

Step inside and be instantly transported to the streets of cheerful Victorian London as it celebrates Christmas in all its glory. Twilight-lit streets lined with shops, pubs, stages and dance halls filled with more than 800 people Victorian characters and the smell of roasted chestnuts and savory fare. Get yours Travel Map When you go in, stop immediately at the post office to secure your free tickets for the Cheeky French postcard review.

The Great Dickens Christmas market is crowded Holiday magic for the littlest guests, The Tinsel Green Children's Area features hands-on craft activities, old-fashioned games of skill and chance, and lively interactive shows. Young viewers will cheer for the hero and mock the villain in the children's melodrama, while Alice is there in the children's melodrama Mad Hatters Tea Party, or learn the tricks of the chimney sweep trade from the London School Miracle Sweeps. A delightful addition to the usual holiday entertainment where young people can get together Old Santa Claus every day at one o'clock Santa Claus stage, Drive with a hand drive adventure carousel, they cheer toy parade, and laugh at the antics of an authentic Brit Punch & Judy Puppetry.

Santa Claus at the Great Dickens Christmas Fair

Guests will welcome the return of the Comic opera “Trial By Jury” by Gilbert & Sullivan in the Victoria & Albert Bijou Music Hall – one of the most successful one-act operettas of all time, telling the story of ridiculous circumstances played out by characters who behave as if the events were completely normal. Be amazed by the world premiere of “Dr. Xander T. Culpepper's Miracle Elixir Show of Miracles“But don’t expect to take any of his miraculous magical tonic; The demand is simply too high! Also on the Pennygaff stagefresh from a year of studying at the Royal Shakespeare Companythe buffoon of London's most hilarious chimney sweep, Jim Chiminey is warmly welcome!

Experience Mr. Dickens' wonderful stories told by hundreds of living history characters on the streets. Meet Mr. Scrooge, Tiny Tim, Oliver Twist, Nancy and many more characters from Mr. Dickens. Queen Victoria walks the streets of London with Albert and her court to mingle with the guests as only the royal family is allowed to do. You can join in Mr Samuel Pickwick He himself and his fellow “Pickwickians” tour London spreading cheer and hilarity. There are celebrities everywhere in the city of London adventure club, or the Dickens Family Parlour, And the large exhibition stage All of this will undoubtedly take you back to a time long ago. Don't miss the brilliant inventor professor Flockmocker's workshop, and the international issue Silk Road Stage for exotic dances and special musical guest appearances.

For the The best of the fairstart a song or two Paddy West School of Seamanshipand then stroll down to Mad Sal's Dockside Ale House where Mad Sal himself will showcase bold new talents as well as tough favorites like the high-kicking dancers of the The Cancan Jewel in the Mad Sal's Dockside Music Hall. The gentlemen of Brass farthing gave the ladies a good, foamy beer with their exuberant songs Gin Alley Sally's Involve you musically in theirsSociety for the Appreciation of Libations and Spirits.' Later in the day the extremely popular and my favorite show production “The Outrageous”. “Perky French postcards Tableaux Revue” Delight adults over 18 with “Gods & Heroes,” a new episode from the personal life of Horatio And Letitia Everard. It's funny that I'm not allowed in with my camera… and neither is anyone else!

The Great Dickens Christmas Fair was originally produced in 1970 by Ron and Phyllis Patterson, inspired by their success Renaissance amusement market, which over time brought them to the San Francisco Bay Area Summer of love in 1967. The next generation, Kevin and Leslie Patterson, now along with their adult sons Andrew and Michael, have been producing the fair since 2000, continuing a 50-year family tradition and three generations of deeply immersive, historically authentic environmental theater. Anyone who loves and misses the authenticity of the old Renaissance fair will be thrilled and thrilled The Dickens Fairbecause thanks to the Patterson family's tireless attention to detail, all that old magic is still there and has never left.

“Every year we are inspired to be better than ever and are rewarded with the delight and surprise of our guests,” says Executive Director Kevin Patterson. “The holiday spirit of Charles Dickens and his London flourishes for several weeks – and we revel in the happiness and good humor of all in attendance.”

There are beautifully decorated shops and shopping carts offering fine crafts, imaginative clothing and accessories, jewelry, toys, and decorations for the holidays. Small accessories that you would never have thought would be discovered with great pleasure by buyers of all ages and desires.

One of my favorite sellers is the Sculptor cart, Rebecca love, who creates unique handcrafted ceramic life masks and body casts. Years ago I commissioned one of each for my wife Sandy, and they are actually some of our most treasured pieces of art at home. It is a pleasure to meet and work with Rebecca. There are also tiles and pottery, in styles and designs that only Rebecca can make. Take a look at their latest African masks.

Even though I don't play, I love it too Stephen Joynes' Fiddle Shop. Based in Palo Alto, California, Stephen performs restorations and repairs and runs his stand out of his love for the instruments. He told me, “I work from home.” My workshop is in my garage and my back yard…this is a retirement job for me…I travel to the West Coast and set up my instrument shop at music festivals. “Spreading the joy of music, especially among children, is a very rewarding pastime.” Anyone can appreciate the workmanship of these beautiful instruments. For more information, check out Steve Joynes on Pinterest.

Steven Overstreet Designs are a supporting pillar The Great Dickens Christmas Marketas well as Renaissance fairs everywhere. “I design my clothing for women to celebrate their inner and outer beauty.” I use color and texture as my fundamental tools. I dye most of the fabrics I use myself, mixing a range of colors not available any other way. Silk velvet is one of my favorite fabrics because of its incredible softness, drape and feel against the skin. “My designs, inspired by the Pre-Raphaelite art movement of the Victorian era, are romantic, sexy and artistic.”

Don & Andrea Thompson'S, Velvet chaos offers all kinds of robes, skirts and dresses as well as cheeky “underwear”. You'll also find unique capes and coats for everyone, including velvet, silk and colorful cotton fabrics. The Thompson's create beautiful wardrobes for discerning adults and beautiful children. Come and enjoy our kindness and joy! The photos here are a small sampling of what is on offer and the ladies who help you try on a garment are charming and skilled at their craft.

When visiting merchants, the “AI R” symbol indicates merchants who handcraft the goods they sell. I encourage everyone to support artists of all genres and media.

WHEN: Open Saturday, November 17, and runs Saturdays and Sundays (and the Friday after Thanksgiving) through December 23, 2018 from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m

WHERE: The Cow Palace Exhibition Halls, 2600 Geneva Avenue, Daly City, CA

PRICES: Tickets are select day. Visit dickensfair.com to reserve your desired date.

General admission (13+): $30.00

Children aged 5-12: $14.00

Children under 5: Free

Group tickets: For groups of 20 people or more, please contact ti*****@gg************.com,
415-668-0525

Active military: 1st and 2nd weekend Free entry:

Active military members receive FREE admission the first and second weekends!

(November 17th, 18th, 23rd, 24th and 25th only; photo ID required.)

The Scrooge special (Twilight ticket offer, available at the door only):

Adult Twilight Tickets, $18.00, Children's Twilight Tickets, $10.00, available after 3:00 p.m.:

Parking is available for $12 (charged by Cow Palace).

The fair offers a convenient shuttle service from the Glen Park BART station

More Dickens Fair on social media: Instagram DickensFair, Facebook Dickens Fair, Twitter Dickens Fair

Contact me, Greg Autry, on social media: Facebook Facebook.com/GregAutryPhoto, Twitter @CGARegAnd Instagram gregautry.cga . There are always more pictures!

*All images ©2018GregAutry ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

• 

  Greg is a photographer and writer specializing in fashion, art and editorial. He covers luxury brands for Splash Magazine, including fashion shows, art, charities, stage performances, travel and all types of events. Organizers and producers specifically and repeatedly ask about Greg because his articles and photographs are of the highest quality and are often picked up in national media. Greg is also available for freelance assignments. Author – magazine article and upcoming bio-novel about the artist Julian Ritter. Photographer – commercial fashion and editorial photography. Artist – oil painter

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The post The Nice Dickens Christmas Honest – a Blissful and Extraordinary Christmas For All – Splash Magazines appeared first on Los Gatos News And Events.

This gives new meaning to the term “booth babe.” View slideshow SAN FRANCISCO – Somehow, Victorian England and Christmas are closely linked in the American mind. This is probably the fault of one Charles Dickens, who wrote A Christmas Carol, the most overexposed Christmas story of all time, and that includes the Nativity.

Dickens is honored at the annual Great Dickens Christmas Fair and Victorian Holiday Party at the Cow Palace in San Francisco.

The huge hall and exhibition space is filled with sawdust, Victorian bits and pieces and actors ready to indulge in a bit of Cockney cosplay. The general public is then invited to experience old England while parting with modern American currency.

You might think that Charles Dickens and Christmas are the two things that American culture hasn't spiced up, and fortunately you'd be wrong.

The Dickens Fair offers a series of entertainment events called London After Dark. The distractions are so blatantly and obscenely sexual by Victorian London standards that they would give a governess the fumes from more than 1,000 feet away. By modern standards, that's about PG-13.

The first part of the London After Dark program was a visit to the Dark Garden store, a legendary custom corset shop in San Francisco.

Few cities could support a handmade corset company – San Francisco demands one. At the fair, Dark Garden will present a group of all-volunteer corset models depicting Victorian archetypes such as the “cheeky chimney sweep,” the “cheeky temperance advocate,” and the “Scotman in a corset.”

I asked the owner, Autumn Adamme, if the corsets were exact replicas of Dickens-era underwear. She explained that while they were Victorian inspired, the design wasn't actually Victorian.

While Victorian corsets were initially reinforced with whalebone and cardboard, her corsets are made of spring steel. Furthermore, it would be unlikely that a Victorian corset would fit a modern person.

“Women wore corsets from a young age,” she explained. “So that their bones had a different shape.”

Next up was the French Postcard Tableaux Review. This is so popular that there is a line outside the show to get into the show. If you want a proper place for the naughty stuff, you'll need to attend the sing-along that precedes it.

I admit that I saw the female birthday suit. My gaze perhaps stopped on one or two Frank Frazetta prints or the pewter amulet of the Venus of Willendorf. And yet there's a particularly strange feeling that comes from watching a man in period garb singing “The Man on the Flying Trapeze” while waiting to see some skin. I think I would have felt less dirty if I had stayed home and spent the whole evening typing the names of various body parts into Google image search.

I needn't have felt so shabby; The show was less naughty than naughty and sillier than both. The Tableaux review was framed as a conversation between Mr. and Mrs. Horatio Everhard, with various double entenders and naughty puns. It was illustrated by models such as a French maid with peek-a-boo bottoms, a pair of free angels, and a group of nymphs and satyrs. If Jim Henson had been interested in corsets, this is how The Muppet Show would have turned out.

The post ‘Tis a Very Saucy Christmas appeared first on Los Gatos News And Events.

The Bay Area is a center of artistic expression, attracting artists, writers and musicians from around the world to live, work and create. We present some of the offers here.

Christmas dances (with boa): One of the Bay Area's most beloved holiday dance traditions returns this week for a five-week run at multiple venues across the region. We're talking about Smuin Contemporary Ballet's annual “Christmas Ballet” program, a joyful mix of works that range from elegant to sassy and silly, touching on styles such as traditional and contemporary ballet, jazz, tap, swing and more. This year's show includes world premieres by Amy Seiwert, the company's artistic director, and former Smuin choreographer Nicole Haskins. Also on the program are classic dance favorites by the company's late founder Michael Smuin, including “Bach Magnificat,” “Gloucestershire Wassail” and “Licht bensh'n,” as well as some of Michael Smuin's more playful works, including “Christmas Island,” “Droopy Little Christmas Tree.” and of course “Santa Baby,” a work that features the company’s “longest feather boa in the world.” The program lands at the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek with performances Saturday at 2 and 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. Future performances include Dec. 1 and 2 at the Sunset Center in Carmel; 7th–10th December at the Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts; and 14-24. December at the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts in San Francisco. An LGBTQ+ Night performance on December 19th at the YBCA will feature popular San Francisco drag queen Lady Camden (a star of Season 14 of RuPaul's Drag Race). Tickets are $25-$119. For a complete schedule, tickets and more information, visit www.smuinballet.org.

Charming, goofy chimney sweep Jim Chimney is among the many characters who populate the Great Dickens Christmas Fair & Victorian Holiday Party, taking place Saturday through December 17 at the Cow Palace in Daly City. (Courtesy of Zoart Photography/Great Dickens Christmas Fair)

The Dickens, they say: We have a hunch that living in a Dickens novel probably wouldn't be nearly as fun as hanging out at the annual holiday event in Daly City that the legendary author inspired. The Great Dickens Christmas Fair & Victorian Holiday Party, as the event's full name is, returns to the Cow Palace this weekend with its large and bustling recreation of Victorian London. It is packed with attractions for adults and children. The older group can enjoy port and chocolate tastings, enjoy afternoon tea, tackle a Sherlock Holmes Experience mystery, have a pint or two at the Jekyll and Hyde pub or the slightly cheekier Mad Sal's Dockside Ale House and admire the Grand Spectrum of performances on seven stages, from Irish singers to Bedouin belly dancers, comedians and jugglers to actors portraying numerous Dickens characters. For little ones, there's a self-guided children's tour of London, as well as the chance to meet Santa Claus and the popular Punch and Judy puppet shows. Most of the entertainment and interactive content is suitable for both children and adults. Of course there are all sorts of British delicacies to sample, from fish and chips and bangers and mash to meat pies and all sorts of biscuits, chocolate and other sweet treats, as well as a wide range of liquid refreshments. And yes, there are knick-knacks and other items for sale for holiday shoppers. The fair opens Saturday and runs Saturdays and Sundays (and the Friday after Thanksgiving) from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. through Dec. 17 at the Cow Palace, 2600 Geneva Ave., Daly City. Day passes are $25-45 ($18-30 after 3 p.m.), with children under 5 admitted free. A full pass costs $160. Go to dickensfair.com.

Los Cenzontles recently released “Son Con Son, En el Suelo Americano,” a collaboration with Grupo Mono Blanco. (Courtesy of Los Cenzontles)

Freebie of the week: Los Cenzontles, the nationally known East Bay band that specializes in performing and recording traditional and original Mexican roots music, has been busy lately. (Of course, this is nothing new for the group, which is affiliated with the San Pablo Cultural Arts Center and the school of the same name.) You can stream the fruits of their labor online. Last month, a new album was released that marked a reunion with Grupo Mono Blanco, the famous band from Veracruz, Mexico. The two began working together in the late 1980s, when Los Cenzontles (“cenzontles” means “mockingbirds”) started out as a youth band made up of cultural academy students. Their findings helped spark a revival of Mexican folk music called son jarocho. Earlier this year, Los Cenzontles, which has forged musical connections with iconic artists from Linda Ronstadt to Los Lobos and many others, teamed up again with Grupo Mono Blanco and hired acclaimed Cuban musician Kika Valera, a master of the cuatro, a guitar, which the band uses a variety of Latin music styles. The result was the album “Son Con Son, En el Suelo Americano,” which is streaming on Spotify, YouTube and other sites. If you'd like to purchase it (we're sure Los Cenzontles would appreciate it), it's selling for $12 on the group's website. Meanwhile, Los Cenzontles continues to release songs, music videos and musical films that you can enjoy for free on its website as well as on YouTube and Vimeo. Go to www.loscenzontles.com.

The Silkwood Ensemble, including artistic director Rhiannon Giddens, brings the tour of its “American Railroad” project to Berkeley on Friday evening. (Courtesy of Adam Gurczak)

To the west, ho! – in music: What an outstanding convergence of musical forces is taking place on the stage of Zellerbach Hall in Berkeley on Friday evening! As part of its “Illuminations: 'Individual and Community'” series, Cal Performances presents the Grammy-winning Silkroad Ensemble and its current artistic director, Pulitzer Prize-winning singer, composer and multi-instrumentalist Rhiannon Giddens, now touring with their project “American Railroad”. The program is designed to illuminate the diverse communities and cultures that contributed to westward expansion with the construction of the Transcontinental Railroad. It includes African American, Chinese, Native American, American folk and Irish traditional music, including a piece commissioned by Grammy-award winning composer and singer Cécile McLorin Savant. Participating members of the Silkroad Ensemble include Giddens on banjo and vocals; Mazz Swift, violin and vocals; Wu Man on pipa, Sandeep Das on tabla; Haruka Fujii, drums; Shawn Conley on bass; Karen Ouzounian, cello and vocals; Kaoru Watanabe on Japanese flutes and percussion and Michi Wiancko on violin. They will be joined by guest artists Francesco Turrisi, frame drum and accordion; Niwel Tsumbu on guitar; Pura Fé Crescioni, lap steel guitar and vocals and Yazhi Guo on Suona. Performance time is 8:00 p.m., with a panel discussion taking place first on the mezzanine at 6:30 p.m. and a community conversation following the program. For tickets, $38-$90, go to calperformances.org and (510) 642-9988.

The Jupiter String Quartet plays music reminiscent of major civil unrest at a concert Sunday evening at the Kohl Mansion in Burlingame. (Courtesy of Todd Rosenberg)

Turmoil in the strings: “Upheaval” is the theme the Illinois-based Jupiter String Quartet chose for Sunday night's concert at the Kohl Mansion in Burlingame because most of the pieces to be played were composed during times of great unrest. Beethoven's powerful Quartet No. 8 in E minor, one of the famous “Razumovsky” quartets, forms the core of the program, and is preceded by Irish-English composer Elizabeth Maconchy's Quartet No. 3, inspired by her support of the struggling Republicans Francisco Franco's forces in 1930s Spain. Guggenheim fellow Nathan Shields' new quartet “Medusa” follows, with references to Caravaggio's disturbing paintings that evoke themes of social and political violence. Carlos Simon's “Elegy” is a tribute to black American victims of police violence, and the first half of the program ends with William Bolcom's wistful piece “The Graceful Ghost,” originally written for piano in the 1970s in memory of the composer's father became. Show time is 7:00 p.m. at 2750 Adeline Drive in Burlingame. Find tickets. $25-$58, at musicatkohl.org.

The post Finest Bets: Smuin’s ‘Christmas Ballet,’ Dickens Truthful, Los Cenzontles, Silkroad Ensemble, Jupiter String Quartet   appeared first on Los Gatos News And Events.

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Revelers will find entertainment from vaudeville dancers to opera singers at the Bay Area's annual Great Dickens Christmas Fair, which begins this weekend. (MarkEYE photo)

Humbug, you say?

Not at Great Dickens Christmas Market. Held every year since 1970, this festival is a surefire cure for the holiday blues.

On the weekends of November 17 through December 23 (plus the Friday after Thanksgiving), the Cow Palace in Daly City is transformed into Charles Dickens' London with music halls, parades, pubs, shops and 800 costumed characters. They meet the royal family, chimney sweeps, newsboys, the Cratchit family and even Mr. Dickens, who gives several readings every day.

Children can giggle at puppet shows (Punch & Judy is a British classic), watch a toy parade, learn to be a chimney sweep and meet Santa Claus. You can also make gifts to give as gifts: rolled beeswax candles and hand-painted ornaments.

Adults can see Gilbert & Sullivan's comic opera “Trial by Jury” (back after a successful run last year), sing sea shanties and watch can-can dancers at Mad Sal's Dockside Ale House.

If you're feeling hungry, here you'll find the foods the British Empire is known for (roast beef with Yorkshire pudding, fish and chips, meat pies, bangers, tea sandwiches, scones) as well as pan-European dishes (Italian, Greek). . Just don't let the queen see you with that spanakopita.

Details: To avoid sell-out days, purchasing tickets in advance is recommended: www.dickensfair.com. Opening hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; $14-$30, with lower prices for twilight (after 3 p.m.); Cow Palace charges $12 for parking, but the fair offers a free shuttle from the Glen Park BART station. 2600 Geneva Ave., Daly City.

For more information, visit The Mercury News

The post The Dickens of a Christmas Honest returns to SF Bay Space appeared first on Los Gatos News And Events.

SAN FRANCISCO, CA – (December 2019) The historic Cow Palace is being redesigned again Dickens's Londonnow in the 36th season, The Great Dickens Christmas Market now takes place on Saturdays and Sundays until December 23, 2018, to offer visitors an incomparable, wonderfully immersive holiday experience.

Holiday fantasies at the Great Dickens Christmas Fair

The Big Dickens Christmas Market and Victorian Holiday Party is very special and a festive treat that I want everyone to experience. The Dickens Fair is truly amazing! Illuminated to look like London in the sparkling setting sun, with over three acres of exhibition space, endless amusements, crafts and games, and fine dining and drinking to your heart's content. There are 800 performers, all dressed in period correct clothing, who take classes to learn how to behave and speak in Victorian London. I suggest you put on a costume yourself and take in all the magic.

Step inside and be instantly transported to the streets of cheerful Victorian London as it celebrates Christmas in all its glory. Twilight-lit streets lined with shops, pubs, stages and dance halls filled with more than 800 people Victorian characters and the smell of roasted chestnuts and savory fare. Get yours Travel Map When you go in, stop immediately at the post office to secure your free tickets for the Cheeky French postcard review.

The Great Dickens Christmas market is crowded Holiday magic for the littlest guests, The Tinsel Green Children's Area features hands-on craft activities, old-fashioned games of skill and chance, and lively interactive shows. Young viewers will cheer for the hero and mock the villain in the children's melodrama, while Alice is there in the children's melodrama Mad Hatters Tea Party, or learn the tricks of the chimney sweep trade from the London School Miracle Sweeps. A delightful addition to the usual holiday entertainment where young people can get together Old Santa Claus every day at one o'clock Santa Claus stage, Drive with a hand drive adventure carousel, they cheer toy parade, and laugh at the antics of an authentic Brit Punch & Judy Puppetry.

Santa Claus at the Great Dickens Christmas Fair

Guests will welcome the return of the Comic opera “Trial By Jury” by Gilbert & Sullivan in the Victoria & Albert Bijou Music Hall – one of the most successful one-act operettas of all time, telling the story of ridiculous circumstances played out by characters who behave as if the events were completely normal. Be amazed by the world premiere of “Dr. Xander T. Culpepper's Miracle Elixir Show of Miracles“But don’t expect to take any of his miraculous magical tonic; The demand is simply too high! Also on the Pennygaff stagefresh from a year of studying at the Royal Shakespeare Companythe buffoon of London's most hilarious chimney sweep, Jim Chiminey is warmly welcome!

Experience Mr. Dickens' wonderful stories told by hundreds of living history characters on the streets. Meet Mr. Scrooge, Tiny Tim, Oliver Twist, Nancy and many more characters from Mr. Dickens. Queen Victoria walks the streets of London with Albert and her court to mingle with the guests as only the royal family is allowed to do. You can join in Mr Samuel Pickwick He himself and his fellow “Pickwickians” tour London spreading cheer and hilarity. There are famous people everywhere in the city of London adventure club, or the Dickens Family Parlour, And the large exhibition stage All of this will undoubtedly take you back to a time long ago. Don't miss the brilliant inventor professor Flockmocker's workshop, and the international issue Silk Road Stage for exotic dances and special musical guest appearances.

For the The best of the fairstart a song or two Paddy West School of Seamanshipand then stroll down to Mad Sal's Dockside Ale House where Mad Sal himself will showcase bold new talents as well as tough favorites like the high-kicking dancers of the The Cancan Jewel in the Mad Sal's Dockside Music Hall. The gentlemen of Brass farthing gave the ladies a good, foamy beer with their exuberant songs Gin Alley Sally's Involve you musically in theirsSociety for the Appreciation of Libations and Spirits.' Later in the day the extremely popular and my favorite show production “The Outrageous”. “Perky French postcards Tableaux Revue” Delight adults over 18 with “Gods & Heroes,” a new episode from the personal life of Horatio And Letitia Everard. It's funny that I'm not allowed in with my camera… and neither is anyone else!

The Great Dickens Christmas Fair was originally produced in 1970 by Ron and Phyllis Patterson, inspired by their success Renaissance amusement market, which over time brought them to the San Francisco Bay Area Summer of love in 1967. The next generation, Kevin and Leslie Patterson, now along with their adult sons Andrew and Michael, have been producing the fair since 2000, continuing a 50-year family tradition and three generations of deeply immersive, historically authentic environmental theater. Anyone who loves and misses the authenticity of the old Renaissance fair will be thrilled and thrilled The Dickens Fairbecause thanks to the Patterson family's tireless attention to detail, all that old magic is still there and has never left.

“Every year we are inspired to be better than ever and are rewarded with the delight and surprise of our guests,” says Executive Director Kevin Patterson. “The holiday spirit of Charles Dickens and his London flourishes for several weeks – and we revel in the happiness and good humor of all in attendance.”

There are beautifully decorated shops and shopping carts offering fine crafts, imaginative clothing and accessories, jewelry, toys, and decorations for the holidays. Small accessories that you would never have thought would be discovered with great pleasure by buyers of all ages and desires.

One of my favorite sellers is the Sculptor cart, Rebecca love, who creates unique handcrafted ceramic life masks and body casts. Years ago I commissioned one of each for my wife Sandy, and they are actually some of our most treasured pieces of art at home. It is a pleasure to meet and work with Rebecca. There are also tiles and pottery, in styles and designs that only Rebecca can make. Take a look at their latest African masks.

Even though I don't play, I love it too Stephen Joynes' Fiddle Shop. Based in Palo Alto, California, Stephen performs restorations and repairs and runs his stand out of his love for the instruments. He told me, “I work from home.” My workshop is in my garage and my back yard…this is a retirement job for me…I travel to the West Coast and set up my instrument shop at music festivals. “Spreading the joy of music, especially among children, is a very rewarding pastime.” Anyone can appreciate the workmanship of these beautiful instruments. For more information, check out Steve Joynes on Pinterest.

Steven Overstreet Designs are a supporting pillar The Great Dickens Christmas Marketas well as Renaissance fairs everywhere. “I design my clothing for women to celebrate their inner and outer beauty.” I use color and texture as my fundamental tools. I dye most of the fabrics I use myself, mixing a range of colors not available any other way. Silk velvet is one of my favorite fabrics because of its incredible softness, drape and feel against the skin. “My designs, inspired by the Pre-Raphaelite art movement of the Victorian era, are romantic, sexy and artistic.”

Don & Andrea Thompson'S, Velvet chaos offers all forms of robes, skirts and dresses as well as cheeky “underwear”. You'll also find unique capes and coats for everyone, including velvet, silk and colorful cotton fabrics. The Thompson's create beautiful wardrobes for discerning adults and beautiful children. Come and enjoy our kindness and joy! The photos here are a small sampling of what is on offer and the ladies who help you try on a garment are charming and skilled at their craft.

When visiting merchants, the “AI R” symbol indicates merchants who handcraft the goods they sell. I encourage everyone to support artists of all genres and media.

WHEN: Open Saturday, November 17, and runs Saturdays and Sundays (and the Friday after Thanksgiving) through December 23, 2018 from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m

WHERE: The Cow Palace Exhibition Halls, 2600 Geneva Avenue, Daly City, CA

PRICES: Tickets are select day. Visit dickensfair.com to reserve your desired date.

General admission (13+): $30.00

Children aged 5-12: $14.00

Children under 5: Free

Group tickets: For groups of 20 people or more, please contact ti*****@gg************.com,
415-668-0525

Active military: 1st and 2nd weekend Free entry:

Active military members receive FREE admission the first and second weekends!

(November 17th, 18th, 23rd, 24th and 25th only; photo ID required.)

The Scrooge special (Twilight ticket offer, available at the door only):

Adult Twilight Tickets, $18.00, Children's Twilight Tickets, $10.00, available after 3:00 p.m.:

Parking is available for $12 (charged by Cow Palace).

The fair offers a convenient shuttle service from the Glen Park BART station

More Dickens Fair on social media: Instagram DickensFair, Facebook Dickens Fair, Twitter Dickens Fair

Contact me, Greg Autry, on social media: Facebook Facebook.com/GregAutryPhoto, Twitter @CGAGregAnd Instagram gregautry.cga . There are always more pictures!

*All images ©2018GregAutry ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

The post The Nice Dickens Christmas Truthful – a Joyful and Extraordinary Christmas For All – Splash Magazines appeared first on Los Gatos News And Events.

It's Christmas time in the city, but if all the bright lights and busy streets (or maybe that marathon of It's a Wonderful Life you couldn't resist) make you want a small town Christmas, there's no better destination than Nevada City, California and its annual Victorian Christmas celebration. This gingerbread-adorned hamlet in the Sierra foothills, about a 2½-hour drive from San Francisco, is like a portal into the past. Read on to find out where to stay, eat and play.

Two before Christmas WednesdayOn public holidays and the three Sundays in December, most of the city center is closed to through traffic and offers a lot of activity. Christmas carolers, roving minstrels, jugglers, costumed characters, horse-drawn carriage rides, local musicians, including many children, and other local talent perform in the streets as families move from vendor to vendor sampling, sipping, sniffing and sipping their wares buy. The atmosphere is warm and inviting and is frequented by locals and tourists alike.

Santa Claus baby
At the bottom of Broad Street (the main street), Santa Claus is available for photo ops. For $5, children and groups can take a photo with Santa. The money goes to a local charity – photos are not required. If your little ones are camera shy or want to check seeing Santa twice off their list, every child can talk to Ol' Saint Nick about it.

Bonus: There's also balloon art and a bouncy house for the kids. Also keep an eye out for jugglers and magicians.

Chestnuts roast on an open fire
In addition to spiced cider, mulled wine and grilled delicacies, there are chestnuts roasted over a real open fire every evening. Cecil Snow, the town's favorite Victorian chimney sweep, will tend the fire and sell the chestnuts. Not to be missed.

Deck the halls
In addition to unique gifts for sale from local artists and craftsmen on the streets, the United Methodist Church at the top of Broad Street hosts an open house that includes a craft market. It's the perfect place to escape the cold, enjoy the festive atmosphere with Santa, cider, cookies and music, beautiful decorations, and use the restroom! Or stop by the Nevada City Craft Fair Sunday December 11th Find a wide selection of artisan gifts at the historic Miners Foundry.

Photo by Erin Thiem, Outsideinn.com

Park your car
The number of parking spaces is very limited and can be frustrating when the group full of carolers takes to the streets. So drop them off, park your car at the Nevada County Government Center, and then take the shuttle back into town. There is a $5 fee to drive into town, but the ride back to the car is free for everyone! For more information, visit the Nevada City Chamber of Commerce website.

Have a good night's sleep everyone
There are many bed and breakfasts, hotels and motels in this area. Family and pet friendly, The Outside Inn is a motel-style property located within walking distance of all of downtown Nevada City. Or if you'If you're looking for something unique, rent an RV and check out the new Inn Town Campground, less than 2 miles from downtown Nevada City.

The Northern Queen Inn offers affordable rates and its own light show – plus you can choose between traditional rooms or small cabins in the pines! Although it is a little further away than the Outside Inn, the city center is still within walking distance.

What to wear
Dress festively, but wear your warmest clothing. It's not uncommon for snow to fall this time of year! Wool coats, capes and top hats are also appropriate! Bring mittens, hats and scarves for the children and wear good walking shoes. Most of the activities take place outside and Nevada City is hilly. The main street, Broad Street, is a long, rolling hill. Therefore, wear comfortable shoes.

When: Sundays, December 4th11th and 18th of 1:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m and Wednesdays December 14th and 21st out of 5-9 p.m

A fairy tale about two cities
The neighboring town of Grass Valley, which is equally charming, has a similar Cornish Christmas festival that begins the Friday after Thanksgiving and runs until December 20th. Mill Street and Main Street are closed and the cool mountain air is filled with the smell of roasting chestnuts, corn on the cob and pies. Make it a weekend full of super retro Christmas parties and enjoy the best moments – attend both events in one weekend. For more information about Cornish Christmas, visit the Grass Valley Chamber of Commerce website.

Have you ever celebrated the season in Nevada City? Tell us about it in the comments below!

–Erin Thiem and Amber Guetebier

All photos courtesy of the Nevada City Chamber of Commerce unless otherwise noted

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The Bay Area is a center of artistic expression, attracting artists, writers and musicians from around the world to live, work and create. We present some of the offers here.

Christmas dances (with boa): One of the Bay Area's most beloved holiday dance traditions returns this week for a five-week run at multiple venues across the region. We're talking about Smuin Contemporary Ballet's annual “Christmas Ballet” program, a joyful mix of works that range from elegant to sassy and silly, touching on styles such as traditional and contemporary ballet, jazz, tap, swing and more. This year's show includes world premieres by Amy Seiwert, the company's artistic director, and former Smuin choreographer Nicole Haskins. Also on the program are classic dance favorites by the company's late founder Michael Smuin, including “Bach Magnificat,” “Gloucestershire Wassail” and “Licht bensh'n,” as well as some of Michael Smuin's more playful works, including “Christmas Island,” “Droopy Little Christmas Tree.” and of course “Santa Baby,” a work that features the company’s “longest feather boa in the world.” The program lands at the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek with performances Saturday at 2 and 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. Future performances include Dec. 1 and 2 at the Sunset Center in Carmel; 7th–10th December at the Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts; and 14-24. December at the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts in San Francisco. An LGBTQ+ Night performance on December 19th at the YBCA will feature popular San Francisco drag queen Lady Camden (a star of Season 14 of RuPaul's Drag Race). Tickets are $25-$119. For a complete schedule, tickets and more information, visit www.smuinballet.org.

Charming, goofy chimney sweep Jim Chimney is among the many characters who populate the Great Dickens Christmas Fair & Victorian Holiday Party, taking place Saturday through December 17 at the Cow Palace in Daly City. (Courtesy of Zoart Photography/Great Dickens Christmas Fair)

The Dickens, they say: We have a hunch that living in a Dickens novel probably wouldn't be nearly as fun as hanging out at the annual holiday event in Daly City that the legendary author inspired. The Great Dickens Christmas Fair & Victorian Holiday Party, as the event's full name is, returns to the Cow Palace this weekend with its large and bustling recreation of Victorian London. It is packed with attractions for adults and children. The older group can enjoy port and chocolate tastings, enjoy afternoon tea, tackle a Sherlock Holmes Experience mystery, have a pint or two at the Jekyll and Hyde pub or the slightly cheekier Mad Sal's Dockside Ale House and admire the Grand Spectrum of performances on seven stages, from Irish singers to Bedouin belly dancers, comedians and jugglers to actors portraying numerous Dickens characters. For little ones, there's a self-guided children's tour of London, as well as the chance to meet Santa Claus and the popular Punch and Judy puppet shows. Most of the entertainment and interactive content is suitable for both children and adults. Of course there are all sorts of British delicacies to sample, from fish and chips and bangers and mash to meat pies and all sorts of biscuits, chocolate and other sweet treats, as well as a wide range of liquid refreshments. And yes, there are knick-knacks and other items for sale for holiday shoppers. The fair opens Saturday and runs Saturdays and Sundays (and the Friday after Thanksgiving) from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. through Dec. 17 at the Cow Palace, 2600 Geneva Ave., Daly City. Day passes are $25-45 ($18-30 after 3 p.m.), with children under 5 admitted free. A full pass costs $160. Go to dickensfair.com.

Los Cenzontles recently released “Son Con Son, En el Suelo Americano,” a collaboration with Grupo Mono Blanco. (Courtesy of Los Cenzontles)

Freebie of the week: Los Cenzontles, the nationally known East Bay band that specializes in performing and recording traditional and original Mexican roots music, has been busy lately. (Of course, this is nothing new for the group, which is affiliated with the San Pablo Cultural Arts Center and the school of the same name.) You can stream the fruits of their labor online. Last month, a new album was released that marked a reunion with Grupo Mono Blanco, the famous band from Veracruz, Mexico. The two began working together in the late 1980s, when Los Cenzontles (“cenzontles” means “mockingbirds”) started out as a youth band made up of cultural academy students. Their findings helped spark a revival of Mexican folk music called son jarocho. Earlier this year, Los Cenzontles, which has forged musical connections with iconic artists from Linda Ronstadt to Los Lobos and many others, teamed up again with Grupo Mono Blanco and hired acclaimed Cuban musician Kika Valera, a master of the cuatro, a guitar, which the band uses a variety of Latin music styles. The result was the album “Son Con Son, En el Suelo Americano,” which is streaming on Spotify, YouTube and other sites. If you'd like to purchase it (we're sure Los Cenzontles would appreciate it), it's selling for $12 on the group's website. Meanwhile, Los Cenzontles continues to release songs, music videos and musical films that you can enjoy for free on its website as well as on YouTube and Vimeo. Go to www.loscenzontles.com.

The Silkwood Ensemble, including artistic director Rhiannon Giddens, brings the tour of its “American Railroad” project to Berkeley on Friday evening. (Courtesy of Adam Gurczak)

To the west, ho! – in music: What an outstanding convergence of musical forces is taking place on the stage of Zellerbach Hall in Berkeley on Friday evening! As part of its “Illuminations: 'Individual and Community'” series, Cal Performances presents the Grammy-winning Silkroad Ensemble and its current artistic director, Pulitzer Prize-winning singer, composer and multi-instrumentalist Rhiannon Giddens, now touring with their project “American Railroad”. The program is designed to illuminate the diverse communities and cultures that contributed to westward expansion with the construction of the Transcontinental Railroad. It includes African American, Chinese, Native American, American folk and Irish traditional music, including a piece commissioned by Grammy-award winning composer and singer Cécile McLorin Savant. Participating members of the Silkroad Ensemble include Giddens on banjo and vocals; Mazz Swift, violin and vocals; Wu Man on pipa, Sandeep Das on tabla; Haruka Fujii, drums; Shawn Conley on bass; Karen Ouzounian, cello and vocals; Kaoru Watanabe on Japanese flutes and percussion and Michi Wiancko on violin. They will be joined by guest artists Francesco Turrisi, frame drum and accordion; Niwel Tsumbu on guitar; Pura Fé Crescioni, lap steel guitar and vocals and Yazhi Guo on Suona. Performance time is 8:00 p.m., with a panel discussion taking place first on the mezzanine at 6:30 p.m. and a community conversation following the program. For tickets, $38-$90, go to calperformances.org and (510) 642-9988.

The Jupiter String Quartet plays music reminiscent of major civil unrest at a concert Sunday evening at the Kohl Mansion in Burlingame. (Courtesy of Todd Rosenberg)

Turmoil in the strings: “Upheaval” is the theme the Illinois-based Jupiter String Quartet chose for Sunday night's concert at the Kohl Mansion in Burlingame because most of the pieces to be played were composed during times of great unrest. Beethoven's powerful Quartet No. 8 in E minor, one of the famous “Rasumovsky” quartets, forms the core of the program, and is preceded by Irish-English composer Elizabeth Maconchy's Quartet No. 3, inspired by her support of the struggling Republicans Francisco Franco's forces in 1930s Spain. Guggenheim fellow Nathan Shields' new quartet “Medusa” follows, with references to Caravaggio's disturbing paintings that evoke themes of social and political violence. Carlos Simon's “Elegy” is a tribute to black American victims of police violence, and the first half of the program ends with William Bolcom's wistful piece “The Graceful Ghost,” originally written for piano in the 1970s in memory of the composer's father became. Show time is 7:00 p.m. at 2750 Adeline Drive in Burlingame. Find tickets. $25-$58, at musicatkohl.org.

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Photo by Rich Yee, courtesy of Dickens Fair

The Great Dickens Christmas Fair and Victorian Holiday Party have reached their final weekends at the Cow Palace in Daly City. This popular annual event takes you to Victorian London, brought to life by hundreds of costumed players and a variety of players Shops, stages, pubs, parties and unforgettable performances. You can still buy tickets for the weekend fair until December 17, 2023.

This annual event began in the 1970s and celebrates the world of writing Charles Dickens, author of “A Christmas Carol,” “Oliver Twist,” “Great Expectations,” and other literary classics. The trade fair functions Experiences and characters iinspired by and directly from Dickens' novels, including The Santa Clause; Crazy Sal; Mr. Dickens himself; and his ghosts of Christmases past, present and future.

Photo by Zoart Photography, courtesy of Dickens Fair

This year brings some new drinking experiences including this Jekyll and Hyde Pub Crawl Mystery, where guests can sample five different bespoke “elixirs” at different drinking establishments; And Port wine and chocolate tasting 4 times daily at the Green Man Inn.

Guests can enjoy a spectrum of Performances on 7 stages including Irish singers, English mimes, Bedouin belly dancers and juggling. This is also a good time to do something Holiday shopping as there will be over 100 shops and vendors selling fine handicrafts. Finally, this Sherlock Holmes experience is back by popular demand for those looking to try out a delightful new puzzle.

costumes play a big role in the overall experience, but don't feel bad if you're not looking for a vest or hood. Victorian costumes are not required but are welcome. Before your visit, be sure to read the costume guide and guidelines, which contain many do's and don'ts regarding your clothing.

Photo by Rich Yee, courtesy of Dickens Fair

The Great Dickens Christmas Market invites you to indulge in the fantasy of the experience, enjoy a fencing lesson, drink some absinthe or Turkish coffee and enjoy the ride.

The Great Dickens Christmas Fair and Victorian Holiday Party take place on the weekends Nov. 18 – Dec. 17 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The fair takes place in Cow Palace Exhibition Halls, 2600 Geneva Avenue, Daly City, CA.

Full day general admission for adults is $45, youth (13 and under) is $25. You can also count on discounted Twilight tickets after 3 p.m.

Written by Grant MacHamer and Jamie Ferrell

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Christmas is less than two weeks away, which means it’s time to start chugging spiked eggnog and kick that holiday spirit into high gear. Just call us Santa’s little helpers as we’ve rounded up all of SF’s jolliest holiday events, from heartwarming opportunities to help those in need, holiday pop-ups at the city’s best bars to a slew of stage performances, and gingerbread houses that are so big you can walk inside of them. And if you’re still looking for fun stuff to do, there are cool events happening in SF every weekend and all winter long.

Ongoing through Sunday, January 1
Macy’s/Union Square
After a few years of virtual appearances, SF SPCA’s adoptable animals have returned live and in-kitten/puppy to Macy’s holiday windows. See them there every Thursday–Sunday from noon to 5 pm or virtually online every day from 9 am to 6 pm.
cost: Free, but donations are appreciated. You can also bring newly purchased pet toys, blankets, flat sheets, and towels to the donation station on the 8th floor of Macy’s.

Ongoing through Sunday, January 1
Union Square
While you’re downtown contemplating whether or not to adopt a new furry friend, head to Union Square to see Macy’s Great Tree, an 83-foot-tall tree decorated with more than 33,000 LED lights and 1,100 ornaments.
cost:Free

Union Square Ice Rink

Ongoing through Monday, January 16
Union Square
Mulling over which puppy to adopt and take home? Take a spin around The Safeway Holiday Ice Rink in Union Square to clear your mind. There are 60-minute sessions every day, and if you go on Wednesday evenings, you can skate to music from Frozen. Just try not to fa-la-la-la-fall while you fa-la-la-la-la.
Cost: $20 (includes rentals)

Thrillist TV

Wine and cheeseburgers

Wine and Cheeseburger: Harley and Lara Pair Falafel with Wine

Ongoing through Friday, December 16
Festival Pavilion at Fort Mason/Marina
Pick up this year’s Christmas tree at the Guardsmen Tree Lot, and all of the proceeds from your spire of comfort and joy will go towards providing underprivileged youth in the Bay Area with opportunities to attend summer camps, after-school programs, and more. It’s also not too late to get tickets to the Guardsmen’s annual Tree Lot Party, which takes place the night after the last tree is sold and includes drinking, dancing, and lots of holly jolly fun (GA: $130; VIP: $255).
cost: All of the trees are Noble Firs and range in price from $65 (2-4 feet) to $965 (15-18 feet).

The Great Dickens Christmas Fair

Saturday, December 17 – Sunday, December 18
Cow Palace
Experience Victorian London without leaving SF at The Great Dickens Christmas Fair. As you wander the winding lanes, you’ll find music halls, pubs selling British fare, ale, mixed drinks, and hot buttered rum; colorful characters including Father Christmas, Tiny Tim, the ghost of Jacob Marley, chimney sweeps, and more; theatres, dance parties, ye old shops full of holiday treasures, and more.
cost: $45 for an all-day ticket; $30 for twilight admission

Grace Cathedral, San Francisco

Ongoing through Saturday, December 24
Grace Cathedral/Nob Hill
All are welcome at Grace Cathedral, which is offering several concerts and services to celebrate the season, including “A Cathedral Christmas,” a performance of classic carols by the Grace Cathedral’s Choir of Men and Boys, family sing-alongs, and Christmas Lessons and Carol’s.
Cost: Free

Ongoing through Friday, December 23
The Victoria Theater/Mission
Grab a pal and a confidant to watch what has become one of SF’s best Christmas traditions: hilarious drag performers parodying (in the most loving way possible) two Christmas episodes of The Golden Girls.
cost: From $35

A Christmas Carol | Photo courtesy of The Toni Rembe Theater

Ongoing through Saturday, December 24
The Toni Rembe Theater/Union Square
ACT’s classic version of A Christmas Carol returns to the stage this year with gorgeous costumes, a lively cast, and a moving rendition of the classic Dickens’ tale that reminds us all what the Christmas spirit is really all about.
Cost:Tickets start at $52.

The Nutcracker | Photo courtesy of War Memorial Opera House

Now-December 27
War Memorial Opera House/Civic Center
Going to a performance of the Nutcracker is a quintessential holiday tradition, especially in San Francisco since the SF Ballet was the first ballet company to ever perform the show in the United States. This version stays true to the original with giant mice, a growing Christmas tree, and Tchaikovsky’s timeless score, but with lots of SF-specific twists that you’ll want to be sure to keep an eye out for.
Cost:Tickets range from $10 (SRO) to $375 (Box Center).

Friday, December 23 – Monday, December 26
Congregation Sherith Israel/Pacific Heights and Virtually
Chinese food and Christmas might be a Jewish cliché, but it’s one we appreciate very much, especially when that cliché manifests in the form of a Jewish comedy show in a pop-up Chinese restaurant inside an inclusive Jewish synagogue. Food will be provided by Green Chow Down, and laughs will be provided by a slew of stand-up comedians.
Cost: $90 to $100

Miracle pop up

Drink festive cocktails at a bunch of holiday pop-up bars

Ongoing through Saturday, December 31
Various locations
Raise a glass to long weekends or escape visiting relatives at one of several holiday bars that have popped up around SF. Pacific Cocktail Haven (Union Square) has transformed into “Miracle,” the beloved pop-up that occurs all over the country (but only in one bar per city), and its sister bar, Kona’s Street Market (SoMa), is taking a tropical twist on the holiday with a “Sippin’ Santa” theme. Trade Routes (Russian Hill) is fully festive with a “Tinsel Time” theme, including a boozy Frosty the Slushie concoction and other cheer-inducing drinks. If you’re willing to plan ahead, book a reservation for Tinseltown at Trademark Bar (SoMa), where you’ll find the halls have been fully decked, and you may get to interact with some of Santa’s helpers and maybe even the jolly old you yourself. Horsefeather (Divisadero Corridor) also has a Christmas cocktail menu, as does The Madrigal (Civic Center), and there are two Deck the Halls locations in Cow Hollow this year: Outre and the Blue Light. Prefer your festivities with a side of devilish mayhem? Rye Bar’s Krampus pop-up is what you need.
Cost: various

Ongoing through Saturday, December 24
Yerba Buena Center for the Arts/SoMa
We’ll always love the Nutcracker, but if you’re looking to mix it up this year, you’ll want to get tickets to Smuin’s The Christmas Ballet, which kicks off with beautiful classical ballet set to beloved carols and then transforms in the second act to “red hot contemporary numbers” set to pop favorites. Go on Tuesday, December 20, if you want to experience the LGBTQ+ night performance with a cameo from Lady Camden, first runner-up on the most recent season of RuPaul’s Drag Race.
Cost: $25 to $99

Photo courtesy of The Fairmont

Marvel at larger-than-life edible holiday displays at local hotels

Ongoing through Saturday, December 31
Fairmont San Francisco/Nob Hill and the Westin St Francis/Union Square
We don’t like to pick favorites, but if you’re only going to visit one hotel to get your Christmas fix, it should be the Fairmont, which is where you’ll find a two-story, life-sized Victorian gingerbread house that stands 25 feet tall, that you can walk inside. If you happen to be in Union Square, pop inside the Westin to see SF’s largest sugar castle. There’s also a boutique where you can buy your own sweet treats and pop! Lounge, a pop-up champagne bar just off the lobby with a DJ and bubbles (open Friday-Sunday).

Ongoing through Friday, December 23
Davies Symphony Hall/Civic Center
There is truly something for every kind of human at the Symphony during the holidays, including an adult-themed holiday variety show co-emceed by conductor Edwin Outwater and drag sensation Peaches Christ (Thursday, December 15), a screening of How the Grinch Stole Christmas with the symphony playing the live score (December 16-17), Holiday Brass (Tuesday, December 20), Elf in concert (December 21-22), and A Merry-Achi Christmas (December 23) which is exactly what it sounds Like.
Cost: various

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Daisy Barringer is a freelance writer from SF who never misses a production of “A Christmas Carol” and thinks Scrooge gets a bad rap. Follow her on Instagram @daisysf.

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