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The Peninsula has a flurry of special traditions to warm up the start of winter and brighten up those darkest days before the solstice starts to bring a little daylight back.
There are tree and barn lightings, illuminated wonderlands from CuriOdyssey to Filoli, family favorite events like the BayLUG holiday LEGO show at the Museum of American Heritage and the longtime Ernie’s Trains display in Mountain View.
Of course, there’s plenty of music, from choral and classical performances to jazz, soul and swing, and multiple celebrations this year to mark the 60th anniversary of Vince Guaraldi’s iconic score for “A Charlie Brown Christmas.”
On stage, there are plays with new looks at beloved tales, from the classic children’s book “Madeline’s Christmas” to “A Christmas Carol.” There’s a suite of Nutcracker ballets to suit every age, from both modern spins and traditional takes to short versions for the wiggliest young audience members.
Those looking to find special gifts can drop by galleries and holiday markets to find creations by local artists and craftspeople.
Since the weather outside isn’t usually that frightful around these parts, there’s hiking with the Environmental Volunteers, while Caltrain offers a chance to “commute” between towns’ holiday celebrations on a festive train.
Read on for the many ways to ring in the holidays with good cheer on the Peninsula. Click one of the links below to go to a specific section:
- Concerts
- Dance
- Stage
- Special events
- Hanukkah
- Tree-lighting ceremonies
- Santa encounters
- Markets and galleries
Concerts
Swinging in the Holidays Jazz at the Ballroom presents rising stars from Jazz at Lincoln Center, New York City’s famed Birdland Club, and NBC’s “The Voice” performing holiday favorites reimagined in the style of Broadway, jazz and more.
Nov. 22, 7 p.m., at Mountain View Center for Performing Arts, 500 Castro St., Mountain View. $37-$47 adults; $26 seniors and students; $13 youth 12 and under. tickets.mvcpa.com.
Bay Choral Guild The choir’s “Celebrating Cecilia” concert honors the patron saint of music with compositions dedicated to her, including selections by Henry Purcell and George Frederick Handel, Herbert Howells, Malcolm Archer, John Gardner and new composer Toby Young.
Nov. 23, 4:30 p.m., at First United Methodist Church of Palo Alto, 625 Hamilton Ave., Palo Alto; additional performance Nov. 22 in Campbell. $30-$35. baychoralguild.org.
The Members Fundraiser Holiday Show Longtime Menlo Park cover band The Members play a holiday show fundraiser for the Peninsula Arts Guild, the nonprofit organization that runs The Guild Theatre.
Dec. 5, 7 p.m., at The Guild Theatre, 949 El Camino Real, Menlo Park. $38-$73; $295 (VIP). guildtheatre.com.
Azure Family Holiday Show This show offers a free performance for families with children and young adults on the autism spectrum. Azure concerts are approximately one hour in length and family members and caregivers of all ages are welcome to attend.
Dec. 6, 2:30-4 p.m., at Campbell Recital Hall, Stanford. Free admission. events.stanford.edu.
California Bach Society “Laudate Coeli” features Christmas music spanning three centuries, with strings, organ and harp. Featuring Saint-Saëns’ “Oratorio de Noël,” Charpentier’s “In nativitatem Domini canticum” and Buxtehude’s “Das neugeborne Kindelein.”
Dec. 6, 7:30 p.m., at First Congregational Church, 1985 Louis Road, Palo Alto and performances Dec. 5 in San Francisco and Dec. 7 in Berkeley. $15-$40. calbach.org.
Palo Alto School of Chamber Music Students perform a holiday concert, featuring works for strings, clarinet and piano by Mozart, Mendelssohn, Finnish clarinetist Bernhard Crusell and German composer Carl Friedrich Abel
Dec. 6, 4-5 p.m., at the Rinconada Library, 1213 Newell Road, Palo Alto. Free. paloalto.bibliocommons.com.
Ragazzi Boys Chorus The chorus presents three holiday performances. With the concert “Rejoice,” Ragazzi’s Concert Group, Choral Scholars and Young Men’s Ensemble perform a program celebrating holiday traditions. Also, the chorus’ Primary Group and Ragazzi Premiere ensembles perform a half-hour concert of festive songs at Redwood City’s Magical Bridge Playground, and the Primary Group, Ragazzi Premiere and Avanti ensembles perform a Winter Recital of festive music.
Rejoice concert Dec. 6, 7 p.m., at First United Methodist Church of Palo Alto, 625 Hamilton Ave., Palo Alto. $35-$53; Redwood City Magical Bridge concert, Dec. 7, 11 a.m., at Magical Bridge Redwood City, 938 Valota Road, Redwood City. Free. Winter Recital Dec. 13, 1 p.m., also at First United Methodist Church of Palo Alto. $35-$53. ragazzi.org/performances.
Stanford Holiday Musicale The annual holiday showcase from Stanford Friends of Music features performances by Stanford Department of Music ensembles and soloists.
Dec. 6, 2:30 p.m., at Memorial Church, Stanford. $27-$32. music.stanford.edu/events/2025-holiday-musicale.
Madrigals Holiday Concert Ladera Community Church hosts its annual holiday concert with the Mountain View High School Madrigals choir, a tradition for over 20 years.
Dec. 7, 10:15 a.m., at Ladera Community Church: 3300 Alpine Road, Portola Valley. ladera.org.
Noche en México Ayudando Latinos A Soñar (ALAS) in Half Moon Bay hosts its annual Christmas showcase with live performances by Tonantzin Danza Folklorica, Mariachi Media Luna, Corazones de Oro and Campesinos. Snacks and raffle tickets available for purchase.
Dec. 7, 4 p.m., Half Moon Bay High School, 1 Foster Drive, Half Moon Bay. Free. instagram.com/alashmb.
Palo Alto Chamber Orchestra Holiday Extravaganza The Palo Alto Chamber Orchestra presents “Mads About Orchestra,” a holiday fundraising concert featuring all five of its youth orchestras with special guest artist, Grammy Award-winning jazz violinist Mads Tolling joining the groups for jazz, hip-hop and funk. Also on the program: Joaquín Turina’s La Oración del Torero and the fourth movement of Brahms’ B-flat Sextet.
Dec. 7, 3 p.m., at Smithwick Theatre, 12345 El Monte Road, Los Altos Hills. $25-$50. pacomusic.org.
Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra and Chorale The group performs Vivaldi’s “Gloria,” Corelli’s “Christmas Concerto,” a world premiere by Roderick Williams and a U.S. premiere by Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Caroline Shaw.
Dec. 7, 2:30 p.m., at Bing Concert Hall, Stanford. $16-$151. philharmonia.org.
Stanford School of Medicine Holiday Concert The Stanford Medicine Chorus and Stanford Medicine Orchestra perform a program of classical and contemporary holiday songs, including Korngold’s Cello Concerto with Christopher Costanza and “The Polar Express” medley. The groups are made up of faculty, staff and students from Stanford Medicine, Stanford Hospital and Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital.
Dec 9, 7 p.m., at Bing Concert Hall, Stanford. $24; live.stanford.edu.
Pink Martini All-Stars Pop chamber orchestra Pink Martini — a favorite at Stanford Live — returns with “A Season of Stars,” featuring three of the band’s favorite vocalists performing familiar holiday tunes plus new songs. With Ari Shapiro of NPR, singer-songwriter Edna Vazquez and “America’s Got Talent” finalist Jimmie Herrod.
Dec. 10, 7:30 p.m., at Bing Concert Hall, Stanford. $44.28-$124.20; live.stanford.edu.
A Chanticleer Christmas The San Francisco men’s chorus performs their annual holiday show at Stanford Live, featuring sacred and secular tunes, from Gregorian chants to favorite modern carols.
Dec. 11, 7:30 p.m. at Memorial Church, Stanford. $76-$102. live.stanford.edu.
Blind Boys of Alabama Christmas Show The gospel and soul vocal ensemble performs holiday standards along with songs from their Grammy-winning holiday album, “Go Tell It On The Mountain” and their “Talkin’ Christmas” album.
Dec. 12, 7 p.m., at The Guild Theatre, 949 El Camino Real, Menlo Park. $69-$104. guildtheatre.com.
Merit Scholars Concert Community School of Music and Arts’ annual winter concert spotlights the school’s merit scholar musicians playing favorite selections in solo and ensemble performances.
Dec. 12, 7:30 p.m., at Community School of Music and Arts, 230 San Antonio Circle, Mountain View. Free admission. arts4all.org.
Music of A Charlie Brown Christmas Stanford Jazz Workshop’s annual holiday tradition features the Glen Pearson Trio with jazz pianist Glen Pearson, bassist Ruth Davies and drummer Lorca Hart playing Vince Guaraldi’s contemporary jazz score for the 1965 TV special “A Charlie Brown Christmas.”
Dec. 12, 7:30 p.m., Dec. 13, 2 and 7:30 p.m., Dec. 14, 2 p.m. at Campbell Recital Hall, Stanford. $22-$49 (all shows waitlisted). stanfordjazz.org.
Peninsula Women’s Chorus The ensemble’s “Voices That Guide Us” program celebrates connection and the courage of finding one’s voice with Bay Area composer Eric Tuan’s “A Great Cloud of Witnesses,” Pamela Z’s “Pen Pal,” plus selections from Stanford University’s composition program, Handel’s Messiah and other works.
Dec. 12, 7 p.m., at First United Methodist Church, 625 Hamilton Ave., Palo Alto, and Dec. 13 in Santa Clara. $10-$50. pwchorus.org.
Sing- and Play-Along Messiah Stanford University’s Department of Music hosts an annual “sing and play it yourself” celebration of Handel’s masterwork, conducted by Stephen M. Sano, with the University Singers. Orchestral parts will be provided and singers can purchase scores at the door if they don’t already own one.
Dec. 12, 7:30 p.m., at Memorial Church, Stanford. $27-$32. live.stanford.edu.
Vince Guaraldi Tribute Pianist Larry Vuckovich, who performed with Vince Guaraldi, shares memories and plays songs by the famed jazz composer, including music from “A Charlie Brown Christmas.”
Dec. 12, 5 and 8 p.m., at Meyhouse Palo Alto, 640 Emerson Ave., Palo Alto. $48. meyhousejazz.com.
Masterworks Chorale The choir presents a weekend of performances. “Carols, Cookies and Christmas” is a family holiday concert with songs, sing-alongs and a holiday story, plus a cookie reception. The following day, the chorale presents the concert “Love is Christmas,” which brings together music of contemplation with joyful works and carols, followed by a cookie reception.
Family concert Dec. 13, 4 p.m. Admission is free for youth and $20 for adults. “Love is Christmas” Dec. 14, 4 p.m. $15-$30. Both concerts take place at Congregational Church of San Mateo, 225 Tilton Ave., San Mateo. masterworksbayarea.org.
Palo Alto Philharmonic The orchestra performs Stravinsky’s Pulcinella Suite, plus works by Mozart and Reena Esmail.
Dec. 13, 7:30 p.m., at the Cubberley Theatre, 4000 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto. $10-$25. paphil.org.
Holiday Heist with Jazz Mafia San Francisco-based musical collective Jazz Mafia puts a soul- and jazz-inspired spin on holiday tunes including James Brown’s “Soulful Christmas,” Tchaikovsky’s “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy” and Vince Guaraldi’s “Linus and Lucy.”
Dec. 14, 4 and 7 p.m., at Bing Studio, Stanford. $34.56-$59.40. live.stanford.edu.
Holiday Organ Concert Stanford University organist Dr. Robert Huw Morgan performs a free concert of festive music.
Dec. 14, 1:30 p.m., at Memorial Church, Stanford. Free admission. events.stanford.edu/event/dr-rhm-holiday-organ-concert
Kitka’s Wintersongs Women’s vocal ensemble Kitka performs its annual concert celebrating the holidays and winter solstice. This year’s performance will feature songs from the group’s upcoming album, “Kolo,” celebrating the change of the seasons and other natural cycles of creation, destruction and renewal.
Dec. 14, 4 p.m., at St. Bede’s Church, 2650 Sand Hill Road, Menlo Park. Tickets start at $31.19. kitka.org.
Musica Pacifica Music at Kohl Mansion presents a baroque music concert by the Musica Pacifica ensemble with guest artist soprano Chea King.
Dec. 14, 7 p.m., at Kohl Mansion, 2750 Adeline Drive, Burlingame. $30-$62. musicatkohl.org.
Schola Cantorum The choir performs holiday favorites and other songs from the silver screen with “Tinseltown: Holidays in Hollywood.”
Dec. 14, 5 p.m., at Los Altos United Methodist Church, 655 Magdalena Ave., Los Altos. $35. scholacantorum.org.
The King of Christmas Vocalist James Lanman, backed by a four-piece band, performs vintage jazz and soul-inspired favorites and original songs.
Dec. 15, 7 p.m., at Los Altos Stage Company, 97 Hillview Ave., Los Altos. $43. tinyurl.com/LosAltosStageKingOfXmas
Schola Cantorum Messiah Sing The choir hosts its annual Messiah Sing, joined by the Schola Sinfonia. The performance features the Christmas section of Handel’s composition, along with other favorite movements from the work, and audiences are encouraged to sing along. Scores will be available or you can bring your own.
Dec. 15, 7:30 p.m., at First Congregational Church of Palo Alto, 1985 Louis Road, Palo Alto. $30/free admission for students under 25, with student ID. scholacantorum.org.
Tower of Power Holidays and Hits Tour Funk and soul band Tower of Power plays their hits.
Dec. 18, 8 p.m., at the Heritage Theatre, 1 W. Campbell Ave., Campbell. $89-$189. downtowncampbell.com.
Jason Crosby Charlie Brown Christmas Tribute Multi-instrumentalist Jason Crosby brings a contemporary spin to Vince Guaraldi’s beloved jazz score for “A Charlie Brown Christmas.”
Dec. 20, 7 p.m., at The Guild Theatre, 949 El Camino Real, Menlo Park. $49-$295. guildtheatre.com.
San Francisco Choral Artists The choir performs “Mystery, Magi and Mittens,” a program that celebrates the Christmas story in music from the 15th to 21st centuries, including works by Tye, Poulenc, Brahms, Byrd, Conte, Scarlatti, composer-in-residence Max Marcus and Peter Hilliard.
Dec. 20, 7:30 p.m. at All Saints Episcopal Church, 555 Waverley St., Palo Alto. Also Dec. 14 in San Francisco and Dec. 21 in Oakland. $15-$35. sfca.org.
A Velvet Christmas with Nicolas Bearde Jazz vocalist Nicolas Bearde is joined by an all-star ensemble for a concert of swinging and soulful holiday songs.
Dec. 20, 5 and 8 p.m., at Meyhouse Palo Alto, 640 Emerson Ave., Palo Alto. $38 early bird admission/$48 regular admission. meyhousejazz.com.
Woodside Village Band Winter Concert The band performs Randall Standridge’s “Santa the Barbarian Saga,” which brings pirates to the North Pole, plus Claude T. Smith’s “A Rhapsody on Christmas Carols” and Tom Wallace’s “Midnight Sleigh Ride” and many other festive selections.
Dec. 20, 3 p.m. at Woodside High Performing Arts Center, 199 Churchill Ave., Woodside. Admission is free; donations welcome. tinyurl.com/WoodsideVillageBand.
Carols for a Cause This organization is a bi-coastal, teen-led holiday performance group featuring members ages 11-19 who perform to raise funds for local nonprofits. Their concert this year will be in support of St. Jude Research Hospital and El/La Para Trans Latina.
Dec. 21, 2 p.m., Palo Alto Art Center Auditorium, 1313 Newell Road Palo Alto. carolsforacause.com.
Oakland Interfaith Choir Director Terrance Kelly leads the multicultural, interfaith choir in its 17th annual South Bay concert featuring Kelly’s gospel arrangements of traditional holiday favorites in a performance that also includes the group’s South Bay Workshop Choir.
Dec. 21, 6:30 p.m., at Mountain View Center for Performing Arts, 500 Castro St., Mountain View. $43-$60. tickets.mvcpa.com.
Dance
Dancer Maggie Carey sees visions of sugar plums and other holiday treats in Michael Smuin’s “Christmas Ballet,” Dec. 11-14 in Mountain View. Courtesy Maximillian Tortoriello
Pacific Ballet Academy Nutcracker Students of Pacific Ballet Academy perform in the company’s annual production of the ballet. The company’s dancers will greet audiences as they enter the theater. On Nov. 28, the company presents a sensory- and autism-friendly performance of just Act II of the ballet.
Full performances take place Nov. 28, 6 p.m., Nov. 29, 1 and 6 p.m., Nov. 30, 1 p.m.. Sensory- and autism-friendly performance takes place Nov. 28, 2 p.m. All shows take place at the Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts, 500 Castro St., Mountain View. Tickets are $35-$39 for full performances; $23 for sensory-friendly performance. tickets.mvcpa.com/event.
World Ballet Company: Nutcracker Los Angeles-based World Ballet Company performs a touring production of the classic holiday ballet featuring 40 international dancers and 150 hand-crafted costumes.
Dec. 3, 7 p.m., at The Fox Theatre, 2221 Broadway, Redwood City. $71-$116. foxrwc.showare.com.
Western Ballet Nutcracker Western Ballet presents the traditional holiday ballet in a production for all ages that lasts 1 ½ hours. Meet dancers in the lobby after the performance.
Dec. 5, 7 p.m., Dec. 6, 1 and 7 p.m., Dec. 7, 1 p.m., at the Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts, 500 Castro St., Mountain View. $47-$55.50. tickets.mvcpa.com.
Ballet America Nutcracker Academy of American Ballet presents its annual production featuring students from the American Academy of Dance performing the family-friendly ballet.
Dec. 6, 2 and 6:30 p.m., and Dec. 7, 1:30 and 4 p.m., at Cañada College Theater, 4200 Farm Hill Blvd., Redwood City. Tickets start at $20. americanballet.com/nutcracker.
Dance Magic Nutcracker Dance Magic, a Palo Alto-based school for dancers ages 2 and up, presents its annual production.
Dec. 6, 11:30 a.m. and 3 p.m., at Cubberley Community Center Theatre, 4000 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto. Contact 650-308-4739 or dancemagicpaloalto@gmail.com for ticket information. dancemagic.org.
Peninsula Lively Arts Nutcracker, Hip-Hop Nutcracker The company’s holiday tradition features three different productions based on Tchaikovsky’s classic ballet: “Nutcracker Sweet,” an abridged production of the traditional ballet tailored for young audiences ages 3-9; a “Hip-Hop Nutcracker,” mixing the iconic story and Tchaikovsky’s score with hip-hop dance and featuring a cast of hip-hop dance artists; and a full-length classic production of “The Nutcracker” with 135 cast members, featuring Peninsula Ballet Theatre’s professional company with students students from the Peninsula School of the Arts, San Mateo’s Masterworks Chorale and Oakland’s Skyline High School Chorus.
Nutcracker Sweet Dec. 6-7, 12:30, 2:30 and 4:30 p.m., at Peninsula Lively Arts, 1880 S. Grant St., San Mateo. $38 ages 12 and under/$48 regular admission. Hip-Hop Nutcracker Dec. 20, 2 and 7 p.m., at the San Mateo Performing Arts Center, 600 N. Delaware St., San Mateo. $49-$69. Classic Nutcracker Dec. 21, 2 p.m., also at the San Mateo Performing Arts Center. $49-$69. peninsulalivelyarts.org.
Smuin’s Christmas Ballet Smuin Contemporary Ballet presents its 30th annual holiday touring production bringing together classical ballet and contemporary pieces. The 2025 edition features new works by Smuin Dance Director Julia Adam, Artistic Director Amy Seiwert and San Francisco Ballet soloist Myles Thatcher and longtime favorites such as “Santa Baby.”
Dec. 11-12, 7:30 p.m., Dec. 13, 2 and 7:30 p.m., and Dec. 14, 2 p.m., at Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts, 500 Castro St., Mountain View. $28-$110. The company also presents the program in Walnut Creek, Carmel and San Francisco during November and December. smuinballet.org.
Dance Connection Nutcracker The studio presents its 26th annual production, featuring young dancers ages 5 to adults. The company will also stage “Hip-Hop Nutcracker,” offering a modern twist on the holiday ballet.
Nutcracker Dec. 12, 7 p.m., and Dec. 13, 1:30 p.m.; Hip-Hop Nutcracker Dec. 13, 6 p.m., at Smithwick Theatre, Foothill College, 12345 El Monte Road, Los Altos Hills. $35.50-$47.50. danceconnectionpaloalto.com.
Ramon Moreno School of Ballet Nutcracker Students of the Ramon Moreno School of Ballet perform a traditional production of the favorite holiday ballet.
Dec. 13, 1:30 and 7 p.m.; Dec. 14, 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., at Menlo-Atherton Performing Arts Center, 555 Middlefield Road, Atherton. From $49.87. ramonmorenoballet.com/nutcracker.
Bayer Ballet’s Snow Queen Bayer Ballet Company presents its annual production of a two-act ballet inspired by a Hans Christian Andersen fairytale about a girl who travels through magical lands to rescue her brother after he’s kidnapped by the Snow Queen. Featuring Bayer Ballet Company dancers and guest artists.
Dec. 19, 7 p.m., and Dec. 20, 1 and 6 p.m., Mountain View Center for Performing Arts, 500 Castro St., Mountain View. $42-$65.50. bayerballet.com/onstage.
Winter Wonderland Ballet Academy of Classical Ballet presents a wintry tale that follows a heroine through an enchanted forest as she meets the Peppermint Princess, the Winter Fairy, Jack Frost and other magical friends.
Dec. 13, 7 p.m., and Dec. 14, 2 p.m., at Heritage Theatre, 1 W. Campbell Ave., Campbell. $40. heritagetheatre.showare.com.
SSF Civic Ballet Nutcracker South San Francisco Parks and Recreation’s SSF Civic Ballet performs the holiday classic ballet.
Dec. 20, 1 and 7 p.m., Dec. 21, 1 p.m., at South San Francisco High School Auditorium, 400 B St., South San Francisco. ssfca.gov.
Stage
Annie Palo Alto Players stage the beloved musical based on the comic strip about a plucky, Great Depression-era New York orphan who escapes her dismal orphanage and befriends a billionaire.
Through Nov. 23 at the Lucie Stern Theatre, 1305 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto. $35-$60. paplayers.org.
A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story of Christmas Los Altos Stage Company presents Michael Wilson’s adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic holiday tale of spirits and redemption.
Nov. 28-Dec. 21, at Los Altos Stage Company, 97 Hillview Ave., Los Altos. $28-$51. losaltosstage.org/a-christmas-carol.
Georgiana and Kitty: Christmas at Pemberley TheatreWorks Silicon Valley presents a sequel to Jane Austen’s classic “Pride & Prejudice,” focusing on the younger siblings of the novel’s central romantic duo. The play is the third in a trilogy of Austen-inspired works by Lauren Gunderson and Margot Melcon.
Dec. 3-28 at the Lucie Stern Theatre, 1305 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto. $34-$115. theatreworks.org/mainstage.
The Gingerbread Man Palo Alto Children’s Theatre presents a 55-minute holiday performance suited for ages 2 to 6.
Dec. 20-22, 10 a.m. and noon, at Palo Alto Children’s Theatre, 1305 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto. $17. bit.ly/3MfZIm1.
Madeline’s Christmas: A Musical Palo Alto Children’s Theatre presents a musical based on the favorite series of children’s books by Ludwig Bemelmans about a little girl named Madeline attending boarding school in Paris.
Dec. 4-21; with an ASL-interpreted performance Dec. 5, 7:30 p.m., and spectrum- and sensory-friendly performance Dec. 11, 6 p.m., at Palo Alto Children’s Theatre, 1305 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto; sold out; bit.ly/3MfZIm1.
24-Hour Alumni Musical Portola Valley Theatre Conservatory invites adult alumni to gather on the afternoon of Dec. 19 and spend the next 24 hours rehearsing a 90-minute musical that will then be performed for the public.
Production takes place Dec. 20, 4 p.m., at Portola Valley Theatre Conservatory, 945 Portola Road, Portola Valley. pvtc-ca.org.
When Santa Was a Baby Peninsula Youth Theatre presents a world-premiere adaptation of Linda Bailey’s children’s book that imagines what jolly old St. Nick might have been like as a child, with a booming voice and a penchant for always giving away his gifts.
Dec. 6, 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m., at SecondStage, Mountain View Center for Performing Arts, 500 Castro St., Mountain View. $20. pytnet.org.
Special events
San Mateo on Ice Enjoy ice skating in San Mateo’s Central Park via public skate sessions, private tents for up to 40 people or private ice sessions. Free skating and skate rentals will be offered on three separate days. Tickets must be purchased online.
Through Jan. 11, hours vary, Central Park, 50 E. 5th Ave., San Mateo. Public skate sessions start at $20.33, prices vary for private tents; call to book private ice sessions. Free community skate days Dec. 2 and Dec. 16. Ages 4 and up. onicerinks.com.
IlluminOdyssey CuriOdyssey hosts a winter light display that celebrates the science of light. The four-level Redwood Hall at the science museum and zoo transforms into a glowing forest of interactive exhibits and kid-friendly art.
Open Tuesday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (closed Nov. 27, Dec. 24-25 and Jan. 1) through Jan. 25 at CuriOdyssey, 1651 Coyote Point Drive, San Mateo. Free with museum admission of $23.95-$27.95 (plus $6 park entrance fee). curiodyssey.org.
Winter Lodge Palo Alto’s outdoor ice skating rink is open for public skating.
Open daily through April 13, times vary (closed Nov. 27, Dec. 24-25 and Jan. 1) at Winter Lodge, 3009 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto. Admission is $20 per person and skate rental is $6 per person. Public skating tickets must be purchased online in advance. winterlodge.com/public-skating.
Après Village The Four Seasons offers a cozy alpine-themed outdoor experience, with private chalets and immersive themed cabins. This year’s menu of snacks and treats features an Italian mountain lodge theme.
Open daily, Nov. 21-Jan. 4, 4-9:30 p.m., Four Seasons Hotel Silicon Valley at East Palo Alto, 2050 University Ave., East Palo Alto. Prices vary, For reservations, visit fourseasons.com/siliconvalley/apres-village.
Holidays at Filoli The Filoli estate’s gardens and historic mansion are decorated to welcome visitors for the holidays. New for daytime visitors this year is Thistlewyck, a village in the redwoods with tiny trains and fairy houses where children can write letters to Santa. Nighttime visitors can see the glow of Filoli’s gardens decked out in lights. All visitors can enjoy warm drinks and festive food for purchase. Visitors needing a quieter experience can come for Sensory Hour Fridays between Nov. 28 and Dec. 26, an hour before Filoli opens.
Activities for additional fees include champagne in the ballroom lounge, private fire pit experiences, holiday teas in the Garden House, behind-the-scenes house tours, wreath-making and other floral workshops and a New Year’s Day “hair of the dog” hike.
Open daily, Nov. 22-Jan. 11, 10 a.m.-9 p.m., (closed Nov. 27 and Dec. 24-25) at Filoli, 86 Cañada Road, Woodside. Reservations are required. Daytime tickets are $39-$45 for adults, $29-$35 for children 5-18 and include admission to Thistlewyck; tickets for nighttime visits are $49 for adults and $39 for children. filoli.org.
The Great Dickens Christmas Fair Over 4 acres of the Cow Palace will be transformed into the winding lanes of Victorian London, complete with pubs, dance parties, theaters and holiday shops. There will be a miniature steam train, crafts and activities for kids, a variety of sweet and savory treats, an Absinthe bar and more.
Nov. 22-Dec. 21, hours vary, Cow Palace Arena & Event Center, 2600 Geneva Ave., Daly City. All day admission $45 for adults, $25 for kids 5-12 years old. Twilight admission 3-6 p.m. is $30 for adults, $18 for kids 5-12. Children under 5 free. There are experiences that require separate admission, check the website. dickensfair.com.
Ernie’s Trains John Bianco, Ernie’s son, will continue the tradition of running his model trains from Thanksgiving through Christmas Eve, Dec. 24. Weather permitting, five tracks will run trains every evening from 6:30 to about 9 p.m. except Mondays at 2387 Adele Ave., Mountain View. The engines and cars change daily. Visit montaloma.org.
BayLUG Holiday Show The Bay Area LEGO User Group and BayLTC, the Bay Area L-Gauge Train Club, feature their annual holiday display of miniature scenes and electric trains built from LEGO bricks. This year’s theme is “The Great American Road Trip.”
Open Saturdays-Sundays, 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Dec. 6-Jan. 10 at the Museum of American Heritage, 351 Homer Ave., Palo Alto. $4 per person. baylug.org/baylug_event/annual-holiday-show-2025-2026.
Nights of Lights The event series kicks off Nov. 28 with a tree lighting and memorium, followed by a parade and block party Dec. 5, an ugly sweater party and contest Dec. 12 and a spaghetti feed and outdoor movie night with “Elf” Dec. 19.
Friday nights Nov. 28-Dec. 19, 6 p.m., downtown Half Moon Bay. visithalfmoonbay.org/events/night-lights.
Los Altos Festival of Lights Parade The streets of downtown Los Altos come alive with marching bands, floats, costumed characters and more – all aglow with holiday lights.
Nov. 30, 6-7:45 p.m., parade begins at First and State streets in downtown Los Altos. Free. losaltosparade.org.
Night of Holiday Lights The city of San Carlos celebrates its 15th annual Night of Holiday Lights with a holiday show, musical performances, treats, kids’ activities and more. Beer and wine will be available for purchase.
Dec. 5, 5-8:30 p.m., Laurel Street, San Carlos. Free. cityofsancarlos.org/business_detail_T10_R36.php.
Carol of Lights Downtown Campbell’s annual winter festival features a petting zoo, slides and bounce houses, Santa visits, face painting, carolers and music, craft tables and free snacks. Ugly sweaters are encouraged.
Dec. 6, 4-7 p.m., downtown Campbell. Free. downtowncampbell.com/event/carol-of-lights.
Quaint Victorian Holiday Friends of” R” House present a day of Victorian-style entertainment, including Lyric Theatre Victorian Carolers, an exhibition titled “Magic and Mysticism of the Victorian Era” presented by The Museum of American Heritage, a workshop to craft a keepsake, a history talk and tours of the historic Rengstorff House, which has been decorated for the holidays. Plus, guests can purchase holly and evergreen swags, ornaments and history books.
Dec. 6, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., at Rengstorff House, 3070 N. Shoreline Blvd., Mountain View. $5 adults/free to children. eventbrite.com.
Environmental Volunteers Holiday Hike and Hands-on Fun The Environmental Volunteers will provide hands-on activities, nature crafts and guided walks (advance signups recommended) to celebrate the holiday season.
Dec. 14, 2-4 p.m., Environmental Volunteers EcoCenter, 2560 Embarcadero Road, Palo Alto. Free, preregistration recommended. tinyurl.com/EVHolidayHike2025.
Gamble Garden Winter Festival The historic estate and garden hosts a three-day holiday event. A grand opening party on Dec. 4 offers a tree-lighting ceremony, refreshments and early access to Gamble’s winter marketplace and sale of vintage finds. Once Upon a Garden is a special family-friendly holiday night on Dec. 5 featuring visits with Santa, a holiday ballet performance, crafts for kids and a treasure hunt around the gardens. A winter marketplace features vendors and local artisans Dec. 5-6.
Marketplace visitors can also purchase admission to holiday teas. During December, Gamble Garden will host holiday teas and luncheons, a wreath-making workshop and a tour of the home and its gardens.
Winter Festival takes place Dec. 4-6, times vary. All events take place at Gamble Garden, 1431 Waverley St., Palo Alto. Grand opening party admission is $95 (includes marketplace admission); Once Upon a Garden admission is $45 (includes marketplace admission); Winter Marketplace admission is $10. gamblegarden.org.
Christmas with St. Francis St. Francis High School hosts a market of artisans, where guests can also enjoy skating and see a live nativity scene. A holiday tea on Dec. 6 is sold-out. The event benefits the Saint Francis Fund. .
Christmas Market Dec. 5, 5-9 p.m. and Dec. 6, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at Burns Pavilion, St. Francis High School, 1885 Miramonte Ave., Mountain View. sfhs.com/christmas-with-saint-francis.
Christmas Crèche Exhibit Locally based stakes of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints host an exhibit of Christmas nativity scenes, with special events, including children’s story times, puppet shows, artist talks and live music taking place each day.
Dec. 6-10, 12:30-8:30 p.m., at 3865 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto. christmascreche.org.
Springline’s Holiday Celebration Build a snowman at a snow playground, join a silent disco, shop a holiday marketplace, take a complimentary photo with Santa and create your own holiday cards at this Menlo Park event. On-site restaurants and vendors will be selling pizza by the slice, hot chocolate, empanadas and more. The City Lights will play big band music from 6-8 p.m.
Dec. 6, 4-8 p.m. at Springline Menlo Park, Menlo Park. Free. tinyurl.com/springlineholidaycelebration.
Winter Wonderland in San Mateo Families can take festive holiday photos, decorate cookies and sip hot cocoa. There will also be kids’ activities, crafts and holiday music.
Dec. 6, 5-7 p.m., Central Park & Recreation Center, 50 E. 5th Ave., San Mateo. Free. cityofsanmateo.org/3956/Winter-Wonderland.
North Fair Oaks Community Celebration This event will include kids’ activities, food, prizes and pictures with Santa.
Dec. 7, noon-3 p.m., Middlefield Road and 2nd Avenue parking lot, Redwood City. Free. thrivealliance.org/events/north-fair-oaks-community-celebration.
Polish Storytime Holiday Potluck Bring a dish to share and enjoy Polish holiday songs and stories. All ages welcome.
Dec. 7, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., San Mateo Public Library (Oak Room), 55 W. 3rd Ave., San Mateo. Free. instagram.com/p/DRZ6jPIj5xn/?igsh=NjZiM2M3MzIxNA%3D%3D.
Kepler’s Holiday Party Shoppers can enjoy cookies and a cocktail. Community volunteers will be on hand to help wrap purchases.
Dec. 7, 2 p.m., Kepler’s Books, 1010 El Camino Real, Menlo Park. Free. eventbrite.com.
Winters Tavern Customer Christmas Party The Pacifica bar will host five local bands all day as part of its customer holiday party.
Dec. 7, 3-10 p.m., Winters Tavern, 1522 Francisco Blvd., Pacifica. winterstavern.com/events/event/customer-christmas-pearl-harbor.
Millbrae Goes to the Movies Watch “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” at the Millbrae Recreation Center.
Dec. 12, Millbrae Recreation Center, 477 Lincoln Circle, Millbrae. Free. ci.millbrae.ca.us/355/Movies.
Hometown Holidays This annual event includes photos with Santa, carnival rides, food and drink, entertainment, local vendors and community groups, concluding with a parade. Rain or shine.
Dec. 13, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Courthouse Square, 2200 Broadway, Redwood City. tinyurl.com/HometownHolidays2025.
Holiday Train Caltrain’s festive Holiday Train stops at select stations along the Peninsula in communities hosting holiday events, with lights, entertainment and more onboard, plus entertainment at each station stop.
Dec. 13, 2:50-5:50 p.m., with train departing from San Jose, arriving in San Francisco and returning to San Jose, with stops in Santa Clara, Mountain View, Redwood City and San Mateo. $12.51 youth/$15-$17.85 adults. For a schedule, visit caltrain.com/holidaytrain.
“The Polar Express” Movie Night Watch the holiday classic “The Polar Express” at Cubberley Community Theater.
Dec. 16, 5:30-8 p.m., Cubberley Community Theater, 4120 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto. Free, preregistration recommended. paloalto.gov/Events-Directory/Community-Services/Movie-Nights-at-Cubberley.
BraveMaker Holiday Mixer BraveMaker’s film industry mixer invites “makers of all kinds” to Alhambra Irish House. It will feature light bites, inspirational stories and holiday movie trivia with prizes. Food and drinks available for purchase.
Dec. 17, 6:30-9 p.m., Alhambra Irish House, 831 Main St., Redwood City. $31.72. BraveMaker2025HolidayMixer.eventbrite.com.
The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay Festive Gingerbread Workshop and Dinner The hotel’s public events this holiday season include a gingerbread workshop with seasonal treats and drinks plus decorating tips from executive pastry chef Joanna Kaskiw, as well as a seven-course dinner Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
Festive Gingerbread Workshop is Dec. 20-21, 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. $350 per table, maximum four guests. Festive Dinner is Dec. 24-25, available times vary. $275 each. Both events are at The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay, 1 Miramontes Point Road, Half Moon Bay.
Euro Christmas Gala Alhambra Irish House hosts a Christmas dinner buffet, with live music from Band Rebel playing ’90s favorites and dancing.
Dec. 20, 7 p.m., Alhambra Irish House, 831 Main St., Redwood City. $60.65. eventbrite.com.
Stanford Theatre The movie theater screens the holiday classics “The Shop Around the Corner” and “Meet Me in St. Louis” Dec. 20-23 and in a longtime Peninsula tradition, on Dec. 24, hosts two screenings of “It’s a Wonderful Life.”
Screening times vary Dec. 20-23; two screenings of “It’s a Wonderful Life” take place on Dec. 24, 4 and 9 p.m., at the Stanford Theatre, 221 University Ave., Palo Alto. $5-$7. stanfordtheatre.org.
Hanukkah
Hanukkah Celebration with Mostly Kosher The Oshman Family JCC celebrates Hanukkah with Mostly Kosher, a Los Angeles-based band that melds klezmer with rock, jazz, Latin and folk.
Dec. 14, 5-6:30 p.m., at the Oshman Family JCC, 3921 Fabian Way, Palo Alto; $30-$50; paloaltojcc.org.
Redwood City Chanukah Festival Redwood City and Chabad Midpen host a celebration with a menorah lighting and music, plus latkes and donuts.
Dec. 14, 4 p.m., at Courthouse Square, 2200 Broadway, Redwood City. Free. tinyurl.com/RWCChanukah2025.
Tree-lighting ceremonies
Hillsdale Shopping Center Tree Lighting The San Mateo shopping center’s tree lighting will feature performances by SF Youth Ballet and Circosphere plus Santa’s arrival.
Nov. 21, 6 p.m., Hillsdale Shopping Center North Block Outdoor Plaza, 60 31st Ave., San Mateo. Free. hillsdale.com/events.
San Bruno Tree Lighting Attendees can enjoy holiday activities, live music and Santa zooming through San Bruno on a firetruck starting at 6 p.m. for Jingle Around the Block.
Dec. 2, 5 p.m., Centennial Plaza, 470 San Mateo Ave., San Bruno. Free. sanbruno.ca.gov/948/Tree-Lighting-Jingle-Around-the-Block.
Rosewood Sand Hill Christmas Tree Lighting The Menlo Park hotel will illuminate its Christmas tree and offer gingerbread cookie decorating, s’mores by the fire and hot chocolate, plus a special guest performance of “The Nutcracker Suite” by New Ballet San Jose.
Dec. 4, 5-7:30 p.m., Rosewood Sand Hill pool deck, 2825 Sand Hill Road, Menlo Park. Free, RSVP by Nov. 21. rosewoodhotels.com.
Cupertino Tree Lighting Besides the tree lighting, the event will include holiday photo opps with Santa, a snowball room, holiday movies and kids’ activities.
Dec. 5, 6-8 p.m., Quinlan Community Center, 10185 North Stelling Road, Cupertino. Free. cupertino.gov/Parks-Recreation/Events/Tree-Lighting.
Santa Clara Tree Lighting The city of Santa Clara’s holiday tree lighting will also include live entertainment, food, a holiday market and photos with Santa.
Dec. 5, 5:30-8 p.m., Central Park, 909 Kiely Blvd., Santa Clara. Free. santaclaraca.gov.
Burlingame Tree Lighting Watch the tree lighting at City Hall, followed by Winterfest on Burlingame Avenue with train rides for kids and photos with Mr. and Mrs. Claus. Community groups will also be on hand.
Dec. 5, tree lighting 5 p.m. at City Hall, 501 Primrose Road, Burlingame, Winterfest 6-8 p.m. on Burlingame Avenue. Free. burlingame.org/1139/Holiday-Tree-Lighting.
Los Altos Tree Lighting The Los Altos Village Association holds a holiday tree lighting.
Dec. 5, 6-8 p.m., at Veterans Community Plaza, Main and State streets, Los Altos. downtownlosaltos.org/events.
Menlo Park Light Up the Season Menlo Park rings in the season with its annual tree lighting event, featuring a winter wonderland theme, family-friendly entertainment, photo opportunities, performances by local youth and free hot cocoa. Rain or shine.
Dec. 5, 5:30-7 p.m., at Fremont Park, University Drive at Santa Cruz Avenue, Menlo Park. Free admission. tinyurl.com/MPLightUpSeason.
Palo Alto Tree Lighting This holiday season kickoff features live music and carols, performances by local groups School of Rock, Boost Class Merry Holiday Dancers, Palo Alto Chamber Orchestra and others, plus winter treats.
Dec. 5, 5:30-7 p.m., at Lytton Plaza, University Avenue and Emerson Street, Palo Alto. Free. tinyurl.com/TreeLightingPA2025.
Rancho Shopping Center Tree Lighting Santa will light the holiday tree at 5:05 p.m. Attendees can take selfies with Santa and bring pets to Los Altos Veterinary Clinic for photos with Santa. Warm drinks and treats will be served, and a kids’ activity station will be provided.
Dec. 6, 4:30-6:30 p.m., Rancho Shopping Center, Foothill Expressway and Springer Road, Los Altos. Free. instagram.com/ranchoshoppingcenterlosaltos.
Pescadero Tree Lighting Find free hot cocoa and cookies and see Santa Claus as the town tree lights up for the holidays.
Dec. 6, 6:30 p.m., outside the Pescadero Post Office, 2020 Pescadero Creek Road, Pescadero. Free. instagram.com/pescaderoartsandfunfestival.
Sunnyvale Holiday Tree Lighting Celebration The city of Sunnyvale’s celebration will include a holiday market, performances by local school groups and free printed photos with Santa.
Dec. 6, 5-8:30 p.m., Redwood Square, Murphy Avenue, Sunnyvale. Free. sunnyvaledowntown.org.
Los Altos Hills Barn Lighting Kids can visit Santa and take part in seasonal games, craft tables, face-painting, pony rides and a petting zoo at the historic Westwind Community Barn. There will also be treats, including cookies and Mister Softee ice cream, hot chocolate and wine. The event concludes with a countdown to the barn lighting at 5 p.m.
Dec. 7, 2-5 p.m., at Westwind Community Barn, 27210 Altamont Road, Los Altos Hills. Free. tinyurl.com/LAHBarnLighting2025.
Mountain View Tree Lighting The city of Mountain View celebrates the winter season with an event featuring performances by local groups, tributes to multicultural traditions, a train ride, games and crafts, the lighting of the community tree, an appearance from Santa and refreshments.
Dec. 8, 5:30-8 p.m., at Civic Center Plaza, 500 Castro St., Mountain View. Free. tinyurl.com/MtnViewTreeLighting2025.
Atherton Hometown Holiday and Tree Lighting The town of Atherton hosts a celebration and tree lighting, with refreshments and a visit with Santa. The evening concludes with the lighting of the town tree.
Dec. 11, 4-7 p.m., at Atherton Town Center, 80 Fair Oaks Lane, Atherton. Free. tinyurl.com/AthertonHoliday2025.
Santa encounters
Santa at Stanford Shopping Center Schedule family photos with Santa, pet photos with Santa or time with Caring Santa, a private, sensory-friendly event. Breakfast with Santa will also include a holiday photo opp Dec. 6.
Santa Photo Experience is through Dec. 24; dates and times vary, reservations strongly recommended. Pet photos with Santa are Nov. 23 and Nov. 30, 6:30-8 p.m. Breakfast with Santa is Dec. 6, 9-11 a.m. Caring Santa is Dec. 7, 9-10:30 a.m. All events are at Stanford Shopping Center, 660 Stanford Shopping Center, Palo Alto. Events are free, but photo packages are $49.99-$59.99. simon.com/mall/stanford-shopping-center/news-and-events.
Santa at Hillsdale Shopping Center Take photos with Santa from Nov. 21-Dec. 24 or attend special photo sessions for pets every Sunday and Wednesday evening starting Nov. 23. Santa will also appear at Pinstripes brunches at the shopping center for selfies on weekends Nov. 29-Dec. 21.
Santa photos Nov. 21-Dec. 24, pet-friendly photos Sundays and Wednesdays, 5-7 p.m., Nov. 23-Dec. 10, Hillsdale Shopping Center, 60 31st Ave., San Mateo. Photo prices vary. Santa at Pinstripes Saturdays and Sundays Nov. 29-Dec. 21, 36 Hillsdale Mall, San Mateo. Menu prices vary. hillsdale.com/events.
Burlingame Visits from Santa Residents can book Santa to meet family and friends in front of your home in his sleigh. Limited time slots remain.
Select times Dec. 4-20, Burlingame. $50. caburlingameweb.myvscloud.com.
Sensory-Friendly Santa Visits Foster City Parks and Recreation is hosting a Santa experience in which children can visit with Santa in a low-stimulation, sensory-friendly environment. Participation limited to two people per time slot. This event is for Foster City residents only, but nonresidents can register if space permits starting Dec. 1.
Dec. 4, 4-6 p.m. at The VIBE, 670 Shell Blvd., Foster City. Free, preregistration required. fostercity.org/sensory-santa-visits.
Storytime with Santa Mr. Claus will visit the Campbell Community Center to share a holiday story and take pictures with families (bring your own cameras). Children are encouraged to wear pajamas, and kids can do crafts while waiting for their turn with Santa.
Dec. 5, 6:30-8:30 p.m. and Dec. 7, 2-4 p.m., Campbell Community Center, 1 W. Campbell Ave., Campbell. $30, preregistration required. downtowncampbell.com/event/2025/12/storytime-santa.
Breakfast with Santa Adults and kids can dine with Santa, and each child will receive a holiday photo (families can spend an extra $5 for a gift from Santa himself).
Dec. 6, breakfast slot 9-10 a.m., brunch slot 11 a.m.-noon, Colma Community Center, 1520 Hillside Blvd., Colma. $4-$15, free for children under 2. Preregistration required by Nov. 21. colma.ca.gov/event/breakfast-with-santa.
Photos with Santa in Los Altos Santa will be on hand for photos at downtown Los Altos’ Enchante Hotel.
Dec. 6, 2-4 p.m., at Enchante Boutique Hotel, 1 Main St., Los Altos. downtownlosaltos.org/events.
Santa Comes to Town Attendees will line up to receive a ticket with a designated return time to take their picture with Santa, who will arrive at 10 a.m. aboard a fire engine. Limited tickets will be given out on a first come, first served basis; one picture per group only.
Dec. 6, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., City Hall, 400 Grand Ave., South San Francisco. Free. ssfca.gov/Departments/Parks-Recreation/Events/Santa-Comes-to-Town.
Santa in Cupertino Santa will be in Cupertino for breakfast Dec. 6 and Signing Santa for deaf and hard of hearing children and their families Dec. 13. Few slots remain for Santa home visits (for Cupertino residents only).
Breakfast with Santa is Dec. 6, 45-minute seatings from 8:30-11:15 a.m., Quinlan Community Center, 10185 North Stelling Road, Cupertino. $18 for residents, $22 for nonresidents, free for kids under 2; preregistration required. Signing Santa is Dec. 13, 10 a.m. to noon, Quinlan Community Center. $5-$12; preregistration required. Santa Visits Your Home takes place over three-day weekends Dec. 12-21; limited dates remain. $55, residents only. cupertino.gov/holidayevents.
Photos with Santa in Menlo Park Bring your camera to take photos with Santa and stick around for breakfast and holiday crafts.
Dec. 13, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Belle Haven Community Campus, 100 Terminal Ave., Menlo Park. Photos with Santa are $5 each; advance reservations required for photos, with few spots left. menlopark.gov/Citywide-calendar/Community-events/20251213-Photos-with-Santa.
Markets and galleries
Pacific Art League The Palo Alto-based art institution celebrates its 104th anniversary with an exhibition and fundraising sale.
Through Jan. 13 at Pacific Art League, 668 Ramona St., Palo Alto. pacificartleague.org.
Luminance: A Holiday Show: The Main Gallery’s member artists explore the dialogue between light and shadow in a holiday group show.
Through Dec. 23 with a reception Dec. 6, 5-7 p.m., at The Main Gallery, 883 Santa Cruz Ave., Suite 1, Menlo Park. themaingallery.org.
Holiday Shop & Stroll Shop at Town & Country Village merchants and stick around for cookies, ice cream, giveaways and a capella from The Merlot Notes singing group.
Nov. 20, 5-7:30 p.m. at Town & Country Village, 855 El Camino Real, Palo Alto. Free, RSVP required. eventbrite.com/e/holiday-shop-stroll-tickets-1964472947468?aff=socialmedia.
Holiday Night Market The Renaissance Entrepreneurship Center is organizing this holiday market featuring local small businesses selling handmade gifts and Redwood City restaurants offering exclusive discounts or extended happy hour menus. Tickets include light appetizers, complimentary beverages, a swag bag and entry into a raffle. There will be a kids’ play area on-site.
Nov. 20, 3-8 p.m. at the CZI Community Space, 801 Jefferson Ave., Suite 100, Redwood City. $10 for adults, free for kids 12 and under. tinyurl.com/rwcholidaynightmarket.
Belmont Holiday Craft Faire Shop for handmade gifts from over 70 vendors at Belmont’s annual fair.
Nov. 22, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Twin Pines Park, 1 Twin Pines Lane, Belmont. Free admission. belmont.gov.
10th Annual ART on the Square Holiday Show Visitors can shop for gifts and stocking stuffers made by 25 local artists working in a variety of media, including jewelry, handmade clothing, accessories, ceramics and prints.
Nov. 22, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at San Mateo County History Museum, 2200 Broadway, Redwood City. Admission is free (museum admission is free on the day of the show). artonthesquarerwc.com.
CSMA Pop-Up Market Visitors can shop for handmade ceramics, prints, holiday ornaments and other gifts created by the faculty and students of the Community School of Music and Arts. The event, which also features live music, raises funds for the school.
Nov. 22, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Community School of Music and Arts, 230 San Antonio Circle, Mountain View. arts4all.org/calendar.
Saporito Pasta Holiday Market The Redwood City pasta company will have its products for sale plus vendors selling hot sauces, tamales, flatbread pizzas and more.
Nov. 22 and Dec. 6, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saporito Pasta, 1020 Hansen Way, Redwood City. Free. instagram.com/saporitopasta.
SSF Elks Lodge Holiday Sip & Shop Shop for handcrafted goods by over 50 vendors, including sweet treats, jewelry, essential oils, clothes and accessories, candles, succulents and more.
Nov. 23, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., at 920 Stonegate Drive, South San Francisco. facebook.com/ssfelks2091.
South Bay Makers Jingle & Mingle A family- and pet-friendly event featuring creations by local artists, live performances and food trucks.
Nov. 23, noon-5 p.m., at Cityline Sunnyvale. Free admission. instagram.com/southbay_makers.
Small Bee-siness Saturday Makers Market Shop for handmade crafts created by local makers.
Nov. 29, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., at Royal Bee Yarn Shop, 1922 Palmetto Ave., Pacifica. instagram.com/royalbeeyarn
Portola Art Gallery “Six by Six” is a group show of small works by the gallery’s member artists.
Dec. 1-31, with a reception Dec. 6, 1-4 p.m., at Portola Art Gallery, 75 Arbor Road, Menlo Park. Free admission. portolaartgallery.com.
Gallery 9 The cooperative gallery presents “A Few of Our Favorite Things,” a holiday group show of works in a variety of media by the gallery’s member artists. During the month of December, the gallery will donate partial proceeds to Los Altos Art Docents, an art education program for local youth.
Dec. 2-24, with a reception Dec. 5, 5-8 p.m., at Gallery 9, 143 Main St., Los Altos. Free admission. gallery9losaltos.art/upcoming-events.
Oasis Holiday Makers Fair Visitors can shop for handcrafted gifts and decor and enjoy live music and seasonal treats and drinks.
Dec. 3, 5-8 p.m., TETRA Hotel, 400 W. Java Drive, Sunnyvale. Free admission. eventbrite.com.
Christmas at Kohl Holiday Boutique The Kohl Mansion will be decorated with lights, Christmas trees and garlands for the annual holiday boutique, featuring over 60 vendors selling jewelry, clothing and holiday decorations. Docents will also give a presentation about the history of Kohl Mansion. Beverages and light snacks will be sold on-site.
Dec. 3, 5-9 p.m., at Kohl Mansion, 2750 Adeline Drive, Burlingame. Tickets are $15 each. mercyhsb.com/about/christmas-at-kohl.
Citrine Collective Holiday Market Eco-conscious vendors present a variety of artisan goods focused on wellness and sustainable living. Guests can enjoy seasonal bites from Wild Onion Bistro and happy hour cocktail specials.
Dec. 4, 5-8 p.m., at Hotel Citrine, 750 San Antonio Road, Palo Alto. Free admission. eventbrite.com.
Downtown Los Altos Holiday Markets The Los Altos Village Association brings two holiday markets to town, where visitors can shop for festive items such as holiday decor, baked goods and chocolate.
Dec. 4 and 11, 4-8 p.m., at State Street Market, 170 State St., Los Altos. downtownlosaltos.org/events.
Mystery Brew Gift Market Artisans will have their usual products at Devil’s Canyon Brewing Company’s makers’ market along with specially crafted mystery bags for sale. There will also be food trucks, baked goods, and wine and beer.
Dec. 5 at Devil’s Canyon Brewing Company, 935 Washington St., San Carlos. Free admission. eventbrite.com.
Gallery House A show of works in a variety of media by the cooperative gallery’s member artists.
A reception takes place Dec. 5, 6-8 p.m., at Gallery House. 826 Santa Cruz Ave., Menlo Park. galleryhouse.art.
Allied Arts Guild Christmas Market Visitors can shop for gifts and holiday decor from shops at the guild, plus 23 other vendors and artisans. The day also includes a mini Christmas tree auction, a visit with Santa, live music and refreshments.
Dec. 6, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Allied Arts Guild, 75 Arbor Road, Menlo Park. Admission is free. For more info, call Artisan Shop at 650.325.2450 or visit alliedartsguild.org.
Palo Alto Art Center Studio Holiday Sale Find handmade gifts by local artists working in the art center’s studios at this one-day holiday sale. Members can arrive early for a breakfast and shopping before the general public.
Dec. 6, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., 1313 Newell Road, Palo Alto. Free admission; tinyurl.com/PAArtCenterStudioSale.
Little Green A Plant Bar Holiday Markets The Redwood City shop and cafe is hosting makers’ markets with different vendors and live music each Saturday leading up to Christmas.
Dec. 6, 13 and 20, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Little Green A Plant Bar, 1101 Main St., Redwood City. Free admission. littlegreenaplantbar.com/classes.
Taplands Makers Market Sip beer and shop vendors selling handmade wares at the Santa Clara taproom’s annual market.
Dec. 6, 1 p.m., Taplands Taproom & Brewery, 1171 Homestead Road, #110, Santa Clara. Free admission. instagram.com/taplandssantaclara.
Pescadero Holiday Craft Fair This Coastside event will include locally made gifts and holiday fun.
Dec. 6-7, time to be announced, 22 Stage Road, Pescadero. Free. instagram.com/pescaderoartsandfunfestival.
Burlingame Winter Market Small businesses sell handmade goods at this two-day event.
Dec. 6-7, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Burlingame Community Center, 850 Burlingame Ave., Burlingame. Free admission. burlingame.org/1124/Winter-Market.
Art Bias Holiday Art Market Over 30 artists will open their studios for gift shopping. Attendees can also take photo booth pictures with giant art supplies, check out exhibits and bring kids for an ornament-making activity.
Dec. 7, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Art Bias, 1700 Industrial Road, San Carlos. Free, donations appreciated. theartctr.org/events.
Winter Wonderland Market The Coastside Art Collective’s market will include a matcha bar, a DJ, raffles, treats and artwork.
Dec. 7, noon-4 p.m. at the Pedro Point Firehouse, 1227 Danmann Ave., Pacifica. Free admission. instagram.com/coastsideartcollective.
Hakone Holiday Gift & Estate Sale Hakone Estate & Gardens will host a sale featuring unique gifts, Japanese antiques and handcrafted items.
Dec. 7, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Lower House, Hakone Estate & Gardens, 21000 Big Basin Way, Saratoga. $8-$12, kids 4 and younger free. hakone.com.
Peninsula Book Collaborative Holiday Sip & Shop Shoppers can enjoy wine and desserts while perusing books to buy for the holidays. Admission also includes 25% off purchases and a raffle ticket for a book and wine bundle.
Dec. 8, 6-9 p.m., Peninsula Book Collaborative, 441 Westlake Center, Daly City. $10. No tickets at the door, 21 and over. peninsulabooks.org/events.
Christmas Art Fair Alice’s Restaurant in Woodside hosts local artists selling jewelry, photography, wreaths, pottery and more.
Dec. 10, 3-8 p.m., Alice’s Restaurant (back bar), 17288 Skyline Blvd., Woodside. Free admission. instagram.com/aliceswoodside.
Coast Pride Queer Maker Pop-Up The Half Moon Bay nonprofit hosts its first ever queer makers’ market at its headquarters.
Dec. 12, 5-8 p.m., Coast Pride, 711 Main St., Half Moon Bay. Free admission. instagram.com/coast_pride.
German Holiday Market The German International School of Silicon Valley hosts its annual holiday marketplace featuring traditional German treats and vendors selling artisan wares and holiday items, plus food and music. Proceeds benefit the school.
Dec. 13, 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Mountain View City Hall Plaza, 500 Castro St., Mountain View. Free. germanholidaymarket.org.
Los Gatos Holiday Market The Kiwanis Club of Los Gatos hosts a market featuring creations by 100 local and regional artists, live music, food trucks, hot chocolate and gluhwein, Candy Cane Lane for kids, letter-writing to Santa and more. The event is a fundraiser for local youth.
Dec. 13-14, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Civic Center Lawn, 110 E. Main St., Los Gatos. instagram.com/lgholidaymarket.
Winter Art Faire Art Guild of Pacifica hosts a fair featuring gifts created by local artists and artisans.
Dec. 13-14, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Art Guild of Pacifica, 1220-B Linda Mar Ave., Pacifica. artguildofpacifica.org.
Los Prados Hotel Holiday Market Shop for holiday gifts from local vendors, sip champagne and chai, snap pictures at interactive photo booths and listen to live music. White or red cocktail attire is encouraged.
Dec. 14, 1-4 p.m., El Prado Hotel, 520 Cowper St., Palo Alto. tinyurl.com/elpradomarket.
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