The Artists, Poets, and Impresarios of the Late 1940’s in Sausalito When World War II ended in 1945, men and women who had fought to overcome tyranny abroad came home and sought to create lives...
Cost: Free
Where:
Bay Model Visitor Center
2100 Bridgeway
Sausalito, CA 94965
View map »
Sponsor: Bay Model Visitor Center
Telephone: 415-332-3871
Contact Name: Bay Model Visitor Center
Website »
Enjoy a free family-friendly creative activity this holiday season at the Stanford Shopping Center and be a part of history! Stop by one of the "Voices of the Community" art...
Cost: FREE
Where:
Stanford Shopping Center
660 Stanford Shopping Center
Palo Alto , CA 94304
View map »
Sponsor: Stanford Medicine
Telephone: (650) 497-7277
Contact Name: Thea Moreno
Website »
The holiday season is here, and Great Mall, one of the largest premiere shopping and entertainment destinations in Northern California, is hosting several festivities for the whole family to enjoy....
Cost: FREE
Where:
Great Mall
447 Great Mall Dr.
Milpitas, CA 95035
View map »
Contact Name: Great Mall
Website »
Walnut Creek based Fantasy Forum Actors Ensemble is pleased to present this original tale, THE BIGGEST GIFT. Did you send your letter to Santa? Then why has he not received it? No letters – No...
Cost: $14
Where:
Lesher Center for the Arts
1601 Civic Drive
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
View map »
Sponsor: Fantasy Forum Actors Ensemble
Telephone: 925-943-7469
Website »
CURIODYSSEY’S ILLUMINODYSSEY A WINTER LIGHT EXPERIENCE FOR KIDS November 2 - January 6 | 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. November 2, December 7, January 4, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Electrify your...
Cost: $9.50-$13.50
Where:
CuriOdyssey
1651 Coyote Point Drive
San Mateo, CA 94401
View map »
Sponsor: CuriOdyssey
Telephone: 650-342-7755
Contact Name: CuriOdyssey
Website »
The beloved Clover Sonoma mascot is going on tour for the holidays! Come see Santa Clo at your local grocery store to take pictures, enjoy free samples of Clover Sonoma eggnogs including...
Cost: Free
Where:
Nugget Markets
130 Browns Valley Pkwy.
Vacaville, CA 95688
View map »
Sponsor: Clover Sonoma
Where: Wornick Jewish Day School, 800 Foster City Blvd, Foster City Join Wornick and PJ Library for a morning of fun hands-on activities. For families with...
Cost: Free
Where:
Wornick Jewish Day School
800 Foster City Blvd
Foster City, CA 94404-2228
View map »
Sponsor: Wornick Jewish Day School
Telephone: 650-378-2611
Contact Name: Annie O'Donnell
Website »
Move and shake to lively music with your little one at this kid-friendly hour-and-a-half dance party featuring the beats of DJ E.T. Hazzard. Buy your tickets early; this event...
Cost: $7 ages 1 and up
Where:
Bay Area Children's Theatre
Dome Room
2162 Mountain Blvd.
Oakland, CA 94611
View map »
Telephone: 510-296-4433
Website »
At GIFTY 2018, dozens of leading East Bay artists, craftspeople, and Crucible faculty members will be selling their best handmade pieces in a holiday celebration of local creative culture. With...
Cost: FREE
Where:
The Crucible
1260 7th Street
Oakland, CA 94607
View map »
Sponsor: The Crucible
Telephone: 510-444-0919
Contact Name: Natasha von Kaenel
Website »
Ring in the holidays at Town Center Corte Madera with festive live musical performances by Marin Youth Symphony as well as a handful of local bands. Everyone is also invited to enjoy free...
Cost: Free
Where:
Town Center Corte Madera
100 Corte Madera Town Center
Corte Madera, CA 94925
View map »
Sponsor: Corte Madera Town Center
Telephone: 415-924-2961
Contact Name: Dee Dee Taft
Website »
Discover and play as a family at the Asian Art Museum. On Family Fun Days, our kid-friendly gallery tours, creative art projects and immersive storytelling make art appreciation a lively,...
Cost: $10-$15, Children 12 and under are free
Where:
Asian Art Museum
200 Larkin Street
San Francisco, CA 94102
View map »
Sponsor: Asian Art Museum
Telephone: 415-581-3500
Contact Name: Zac Rose
Website »
Discover and play as a family at the Asian Art Museum. On Family Fun Days, our kid-friendly gallery tours, creative art projects and immersive storytelling make art appreciation a lively,...
Cost: Free with museum admission. Kids 12 and under are always free.
Where:
Asian Art Museum
200 Larkin Street
San Francisco, CA 94102
View map »
Sponsor: Asian Art Museum
Telephone: 415-581-3500
Contact Name: Zac Rose
Website »
Join San Jose Made and hundreds of craft makers, food producers, artists, designers and emerging brands for this year's San Jose Craft Holiday Fair! Over the course of two days on December...
Cost: FREE
Where:
San Jose Convention Center
150 W. San Carlos St.
San Jose, CA
View map »
Bay Street is set to host Head West Marketplace, a monthly market from West Perro, showcasing more than 30 local artisans. From one-of-a-kind clothing to home décor, everyone is invited to...
Cost: Free
Where:
Bay Street Emeryville - Center Plaza
5616 Bay Street
Emeryville, CA 94608
View map »
Sponsor: Bay Street Emeryville
Telephone: 415-380-8390
Contact Name: Dee Dee Taft
Website »
It's Santa photo time! Reserve your FastPass and skip the line to see Santa by visiting: https://www.santasfastpass.com/scheduling/Y_bsdDv3:stanford-shopping-center
Cost: Free
Where:
Stanford Shopping Center
660 Stanford Shopping Center
Palo Alto, CA 94304
View map »
Visit Santa and have photos taken at the Jelly Belly Visitor Center as this candy palace becomes a winter wonderland. A professional photographer will be onsite, but feel free to bring your own...
Cost: Free
Where:
Jelly Belly Visitor Center
One Jelly Belly Lane
Fairfield, CA 94533
View map »
Sponsor: Jelly Belly Candy Company
Telephone: 1-800-953-5592
Website »
Bay Street is set to host Head West Marketplace, a monthly market from West Perro, showcasing more than 30 local artisans. From one-of-a-kind clothing to home décor, everyone is invited to...
Cost: Free
Where:
Bay Street Emeryville - Center Plaza
5616 Bay Street
Emeryville, CA 94608
View map »
Sponsor: Bay Street Emeryville
Telephone: 415-380-8390
Contact Name: Dee Dee Taft
Website »
WHAT: Bayfair Center invites children and their families to visit with Santa Claus to share their wish lists and all the magic of the holiday season from November 17th through December 24th....
Cost: 24.99 to $49.99
Where:
Bayfair Center
15555 East 14th Street
San Leandro, CA 94578
View map »
Once Upon Your Mind is interactive, improvised storytelling. Using a storybook as a starting point, audience members of all ages are encouraged to participate in creating an original...
Cost: $10 adults, $6 children
Where:
All Out Comedy Theater
2525 Telegraph Ave.
Suite B
Oakland, CA 94612
View map »
Sponsor: All Out Comedy Theater
Telephone: (510)761-7279
Contact Name: Colleen Breen
Website »
Head over to Westgate Center for your photos with Santa. Check website for time and prices. Nov. 17-Dec. 24.
Cost: TBA
Where:
Westgate Center - Center Court by Ross
1600 Saratoga Ave.
San Jose, CA 95129
View map »
Ring in the holidays with festive fun at Town Center Corte Madera. From parents to little ones, everyone is invited to enjoy free photos with Santa, as well as free holiday gift-wrapping services...
Cost: Free
Where:
Town Center Corte Madera
100 Corte Madera Town Center
Corte Madera, CA 94925
View map »
Sponsor: Corte Madera Town Center
Telephone: 415-924-2961
Contact Name: Dee Dee Taft
Website »
It's Santa photo time! Reserve your FastPass and skip the line to see Santa by visiting: https://www.santasfastpass.com/scheduling/Yeps4KXZ:stoneridge-shopping-center
Cost: Free
Where:
1 Stoneridge Mall Rd
Pleasanton, CA 94588
View map »
If you can't get to LEGOLAND® over the holiday break, here's the Peninsula's version of the next best thing. Now in its 15th year, the Annual Holiday Extravaganza featuring...
Cost: $3 / person
Where:
Museum of American Heritage
351 Homer Ave
Palo Alto, CA 94301
View map »
Sponsor: MOAH, BayLUG, and BayLTC
Contact Name: Adam Williams
Website »
HOLIDAY SHOPPING FOR LOCALLY MADE GOODS AT CCA Join the shopping extravaganza featuring holiday gift items, all made in San Francisco by over 50 different SFMade vendors! SFMade...
Cost: Free
Where:
California College of the Arts
1111 Eighth Street
San Francisco, CA 94107
View map »
Sponsor: SFMade
Telephone: 415-812-4903
Contact Name: Pierre Coeurdeuil
Website »
The story of Juana Briones is a tale of resilience, ingenuity and business savvy – the hallmarks of Silicon Valley. Juana Briones was an early entrepreneur who owned several...
Cost: FREE
Where:
Los Altos History Museum
51 S San Antonio Road
Los Altos, CA 94022
View map »
Sponsor: Los Altos History Museum
Website »
This program features antique tea settings, homemade sandwiches, sweets, tea, hot chocolate, live music and more. Children are encouraged to bring their teddy bears. Repeats at 3pm each day.
Cost: $28 adults, $24 children under 12 or $50 for one adult and one child
Where:
Falkirk Cultural Center
1408 Mission St.
San Rafael, CA
View map »
Telephone: 800-838-3006
Website »
About Sis Boom Bah!New Museum Los Gatos (NUMU) is thrilled to announce the September 2018 opening of an expansive exhibition that takes a deep dive into the long history of the town’s high...
Cost: Kids under 18 are Free. Adult $10/ Seniors, Educators, Military $6
Where:
New Museum Los Gatos
106 E. Main St.
Los Gatos, CA 95030
View map »
Sponsor: New Museum Los Gatos | NUMU
Telephone: 408-354-2646
Contact Name: New Museum Los Gatos
Website »
Celebrate the winter holidays of many cultures at Children's Fairyland: Christmas, Chanukah, Kwanzaa, Las Posadas, Diwali, and Chinese New Year. You'll enjoy stories, crafts, special...
Cost: $10 general, $5 Fairyland members
Where:
Children's Fairyland
699 Bellevue Ave.
Oakland, CA 94610
View map »
Sponsor: Children's Fairyland
Telephone: 510-238-6876
Website »
Ring in the holidays with free festive fun at Bay Street. People and pets are invited to stop by Bay Street’s Center Plaza to visit and take FREE selfies with Santa Claus as well as enjoy...
Cost: Free
Where:
Bay Street Emeryville - Center Plaza
5616 Bay Street
Emeryville, CA 94608
View map »
Sponsor: Bay Street Emeryville
Telephone: 510-655-4002
Contact Name: Tharasa Athauda
Website »
The exhibit features a collection of iron toys, antique shaving mugs, children’s books and dolls, advertising boxes, and other items that would have been given as presents in days gone by.
Cost: FREE
Where:
Los Altos History Museum
51 S San Antonio Road
Los Altos, CA 94022
View map »
Sponsor: Los Altos History Museum
Website »
Thrilling audiences around the world for nearly 30 years with the art, magic, science and fun of bubbles, the Amazing Bubble Man (a.k.a. Louis Pearl) explores the breath-taking dynamics of bubbles....
Cost: $15/Adult; $10/Kid (12 and under)
Where:
Rhythmix Cultural Works
2513 Blanding Ave
Alameda, CA 94501
View map »
Sponsor: Rhythmix Cultural Works
Telephone: 510-865-5060
Contact Name: Tina Blaine
Website »
Get ready for a full-force, non-stop show of thrilling feats at Circus Bella’s winter spectacular, KALEIDOSCOPE. Circus Bella has been performing free circus in the parks all over the Bay...
Cost: $39, $55, $150
Where:
Mersea Meadow
699 Ave of the Palms
Treasure Island
San Francisco, CA 94130
View map »
Sponsor: Circus Bella
Telephone: 415-480-4239
Contact Name: Suzanne Santos
Website »
Smuin kicks off the holidays with the return of The Christmas Ballet, the beloved Bay Area tradition featuring two acts packed to the brim with both flawless classical ballet and red-hot...
Cost: $25-$91, Terrace & Orchestra
Where:
Yerba Buena Center for the Arts- YBCA Theater
700 Howard Street (at Third)
San Francisco, CA 94103
View map »
Sponsor: Smuin
Telephone: 415-912-1899
Contact Name: Yerba Buena Center for the Arts YBCA Theater
Website »
The Firehouse Arts Center in partnership with award-winning ESSES Productions presents Branden & James in a special Holiday version of their hit show. The sensational vocal/cello/keyboard duo...
Cost: Reserved seat tickets: $18 - $28.
Where:
Firehouse Arts Center
4444 Railroad Avenue
Pleasanton, CA 94566
View map »
Sponsor: City of Pleasanton Firehouse Arts Center
Telephone: 925-931-4848
Website »
An enchanting bestseller springs to life as TheatreWorks Silicon Valley brings the regional premiere of Tuck Everlasting to Palo Alto. In this 1890s tale, free-spirited Winner Foster’s search...
Cost: $40-100
Where:
Lucie Stern Theatre
1305 Middlefield Rd
Palo Alto, CA 94301
View map »
Sponsor: TheatreWorks Silicon Valley
Telephone: 650-327-1600
Contact Name: TheatreWorks
Website »
A zany rich-boy-meets-hometown-girl romantic comedy, CRAZY FOR YOU tells the story of young New York banker Bobby Child, who is sent to Deadrock, Nevada, to foreclose on a rundown theatre. In...
Cost: $35 - $65
Where:
Alcazar Theatre
650 Geary Street
San Francisco, CA 94102
View map »
Santa Clara Ice at Central Park is proud of bring ice skating back to Central Park from November 19, 2019 - January 21, 2019! Santa Clara Ice is your winter home for fun. Monday-Thursday 2:00 PM...
Cost: $10 - $15 per person
Where:
Central Park
969 Kiely Boulevard
Santa Clara, CA 95051
View map »
Sponsor: Silicon Valley Power and City of Santa Clara Parks & Recreation
Telephone: 408-615-3140
Website »
The Firehouse Arts Center in partnership with award-winning ESSES Productions presents Branden & James in a special Holiday version of their hit show. The sensational vocal/cello/keyboard duo...
Cost: Reserved seat tickets: $18 - $28.
Where:
Firehouse Arts Center
4444 Railroad Avenue
Pleasanton, CA 94566
View map »
Sponsor: City of Pleasanton Firehouse Arts Center
Telephone: 925-931-4848
Website »
An interactive program featuring different S.T.E.A.M. related projects. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, & Math). Grades K-5 only. Registration required. Registration opens 3 weeks...
Cost: FREE
Where:
Mitchell Park Library
3700 Middlefield Road
Palo Alto, CA 94303
View map »
Dr. Jindong Cai, Conductor DANCES FROM AROUND THE WORLD Join Golden State Youth Orchestra at the beautiful California Theatre for the annual Holiday Pops Concert. Whether exotic, passionate or...
Cost: $15-$25
Where:
California Theatre
345 South 1st Street
San Jose, CA 95113
View map »
Sponsor: Golden State Youth Orchestra
Telephone: 650-665-9046
Website »
Golden State Youth Orchestra Mid-Season Auditions Musicians ages 6-18 are invited to audition for Golden State Youth Orchestra! Palo Alto-based Golden State Youth Orchestra (GSYO) invites...
Cost: $25 audition fee
Where:
GSYO Office
4055 Fabian Way
Palo Alto, CA
View map »
Sponsor: Golden State Youth Orchestra
Telephone: 650-665-9046
Website »
Opening Reception: Sunday, September 30, 3 – 5pm Admission: Adults $5, Youth (13-17) $3, Children 12 and under are free, free for Bedford Gallery Members Gallery Hours: Tue –...
Cost: Admission: Adults $5, Youth (13-17) $3, Children 12 and under are free, free fo
Where:
Bedford Gallery
1601 Civic Drive
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
View map »
Telephone: 925-295-1417
Contact Name: Bedford Gallery
Website »
Bring in the holidays with live jazz performances at Bay Street. Everyone is Invited to stop by the Center Plaza to enjoy free hot apple cider and festive favorites from the Oakland...
Cost: Free
Where:
Bay Street Emeryville - Center Plaza
5616 Bay Street
Emeryville, CA 94608
View map »
Sponsor: Bay Street Emeryville
Telephone: 510-655-4002
Contact Name: Tharasa Athauda
Website »
Traditional joyous dances of Guinea This class is accompanied by live drums. We break down each movement so it’s good for beginners. Adults and Children ages 7 and up are welcome A...
Cost: $15 (tips for drummers optional)
Where:
Quantum Martial Arts
2390 Mission St (at 20th)
Suite 305
San Francisco, CA 94110
View map »
Telephone: 628-246-4766
Contact Name: Maria Young
Festive lights, Santa, ice skating and live shows in the tradition of the holiday season. Feast on turkey and all the trimmings and bundle up with family for a ride around the park on the train....
Cost: TBA
Where:
Gilroy Gardens
3050 Hecker Pass Hwy
Gilroy, CA 95020
View map »
Seven youth and adult choral ensembles fill the audience with the holiday spirit.
Cost: $25-40; children half
Where:
Marin Veterans Memorial Auditorium
10 Avenue of the Flags
San Rafael, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-473- 6800
Website »
Apres, an elegant outdoor lounge, emulates a cozy mountainside retreat with apres-ski cuisine and drinks. There will be snow fall every hour between 4-11pm. There are fireside movies at...
Cost: FREE with purchase of food and beverage; reservations suggested
Where:
Four Seasons Hotel Silicon Valley
2050 University Ave.
East Palo Alto, CA
View map »
Telephone: 800-819-5053
Website »
The Young Women’s Choral Projects of San Francisco’s Winter Showcase features all four choruses of the organization singing solo and together with harp and cello. Music by Britten,...
Cost: $5-35
Where:
Calvary Presbyterian Church
2515 Fillmore St
San Francisco, CA 94115
View map »
Sponsor: Young Women's Choral Projects
Telephone: 415-312-7787
Contact Name: Kaneez Munjee
Website »
A yoga classes designed specifically for kids every 1st and 3rd Friday of the month September -December! Along with yoga, each themed class is accompanied by other elements such as...
Cost: FREE
Where:
Morgan Hill Library
660 W Main Ave,
Morgan Hill, CA 95037
View map »
There’s a good reason why this has become a holiday tradition for many families. The train is decked out with lights and decorations inside and out on an hour-long ride through...
Cost: $30 coach, $50 first-class dome, $600 private caboose
Where:
Niles Train Station
37001 Mission Blvd
Fremont, CA 94536
View map »
Telephone: 510-996-8420
Website »
Described as a “nighttime spectacular of light and color,” the celebration of Chinese culture features hundreds of huge, handcrafted lanterns in a variety of themed displays that...
Cost: $18-23
Where:
Alameda County Fairgrounds
Gate 8 or Gate 12
Corner of Bernal and Valley Ave.
Pleasanton, CA 94566
View map »
Telephone: 651-504-2000
Website »
Visit the cemetery through New Year's Day for a holiday light exhibition featuring scenes from Santa's workshop and other holiday themes including a giant nutcracker solider,...
Cost: FREE
Where:
Mountain View Cemetery
5000 Piedmont Ave.
Oakland, CA 94611
View map »
Telephone: 510-658-2588
Website »
Hundreds of thousands of LED lights will brighten Oakland's night sky along with a candy cane lane themed rides area, Christmas tree fun and a light show. *Closed Dec. 24-25.
Cost: $10 adults, $9 ages 2-14, under 2 FREE (not included with regular zoo admission)
Where:
Oakland Zoo
9777 Golf Links Road
Oakland, CA 94605
View map »
Telephone: 510-632-9525
Website »
The world premiere exhibition by internationally-acclaimed artist Bruce Munro, opens this Sunday, October 28, at Montalvo Arts Center, located on 175 acres in the Silicon Valley,...
Cost: $15-27
Where:
Montalvo Arts Center
15400 Montalvo Road
Saratoga, CA
View map »
Drive through a 1.5-mile-long annual holiday lights display in Vasona Lake County Park to see electric dinosaurs and penguins, Santa shooting hoops and so much more. Dec. 4-30, closed Dec. 25. All...
Cost: $20/car
Where:
Vasona Lake County Park
333 Blossom Hill Road
Los Gatos, CA
View map »
Get ready for a full-force, non-stop show of thrilling feats at Circus Bella’s winter spectacular, KALEIDOSCOPE. Circus Bella has been performing free circus in the parks all over the Bay...
Cost: $39, $55, $150
Where:
Mersea Meadow
699 Ave of the Palms
Treasure Island
San Francisco, CA 94130
View map »
Sponsor: Circus Bella
Telephone: 415-480-4239
Contact Name: Suzanne Santos
Website »
An enchanting bestseller springs to life as TheatreWorks Silicon Valley brings the regional premiere of Tuck Everlasting to Palo Alto. In this 1890s tale, free-spirited Winner Foster’s search for...
Cost: $40-$100
Where:
Lucie Stern Community Center
1305 Middlefield Rd
Palo Alto, CA 94301
View map »
Sponsor: TheatreWorks Silicon Valley
Telephone: 650-463-1960
Contact Name: TheatreWorks Silicon Valley
Website »
James Lapine and Stephen Sondheim take everyone's favorite storybook characters and bring them together for a timeless, yet relevant, piece... and a rare modern classic. The Tony Award-winning...
Cost: Adults $25, Student/Senior/Military $15
Where:
Northgate High School Little Theater
425 Castle Rock Rd
Walnut Creek, CA 94598
View map »
Sponsor: Peter Pan Foundation
Contact Name: Joseph Torkildson
Website »
December 14-23, Fridays & Saturdays 7:30pm, Saturdays & Sundays 2pm Based on one of the most popular Disney movies of all time, Disney and Cameron Mackintosh's youth musical...
Cost: $7-$18; youth, senior discounts.
Where:
Amador Theater
1155 Santa Rita Road
Pleasanton, CA 94566
View map »
Sponsor: City of Pleasanton Firehouse Arts Center
Telephone: 925-931-4848
Website »
Bay Area artists Monica Canilao and Xara Thustra collaborate for their first large-scale exhibition that explores feminist and anti-capitalist themes and challenges viewers to step back and...
Cost: Admission $8-10, children under 5 FREE
Where:
Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History
705 Front St.
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
View map »
Telephone: 831-429-1964
Website »
Brentwood's The Ballet Company of East County will present this holiday classic. Fri., Dec. 14: 7pm Sat., Dec. 15: 3pm and 7pm Sun., Dec. 16: 12pm and 4pm
Cost: $16-20
Where:
El Campanil Theatre
602 W. Second St.
Antioch, CA 94509
View map »
Telephone: 925-757-9500
Website »
Bring a can of food and bowl a game for free. All donations go to Second Harvest Food Bank of Santa Cruz County to fee local families. Does not include shoe rental.
Cost: FREE,.
Where:
Santa Cruz Boardwalk
400 Beach St.
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
View map »
Don’t miss NBA All-Star Baron Davis’ pop-up winter wonderland featuring Black Santa merchandise, holiday sweets, festive workshops and visits with Black Santa and Mrs. C. Store...
Cost: Costs vary
Where:
Jack London Square
54 Washington St.
Oakland, CA 94607
View map »
Telephone: 510-645-9292
Website »
The pop culture phenomenon School House Rock comes to the stage! Featuring the classic songs of the Emmy-Award winning series, including Just a Bill, Conjunction Junction,...
Cost: $12-14
Where:
Palo Alto Children's Theatre
1305 Middlefield Road
Palo Alto, CA
View map »
This 50-minute performance features danced storytelling with live music.
Cost: Call for prices
Where:
Cowell Theater
Fort Mason Center
Marina Boulevard and Buchanan Street
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-345-7575
Website »
Make friends as you explore the importance of images, sounds, and graphics while creating your own animated projects.
Cost: FREE
Where:
MACLA
500 S. First St.
San Jose, CA 95113
View map »
The magical world of storytelling mechanical sculptures known as automata returns to the Exploratorium for the third year in a row. Watch these miniature dramas unfold while observing the low-tech...
Cost: $29.95 adults, $19.95 ages 4-12, under 4 FREE
Where:
Pier 15
Embarcadero at Green Street
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-528-4444
Website »
The San Jose Nutcracker takes place in San Jose at the turn of the last century. Presented in partnership with History San Jose, and featuring the voices of Ragazzi Premiere singers, it tells the...
Cost: $19 and up
Where:
SJSU Hammer Theatre Center
101 Paseo De San Antonio
San Jose, CA
View map »
Taste the special Filoli holiday blend and enjoy finger sandwiches, scones and holiday treats. Check websites for days and times.
Cost: $75
Where:
Filoli
86 Cañada Road
Woodside, CA
View map »
Telephone: 650-364-8300
Website »
This Bay Area circus celebrates diversity and color and features aerialists, acrobats, jugglers, high wire artists, family foot jugglers, clowns and more. Shows are Thu-Sun. Check website for times.
Cost: $39-150
Where:
Near Mersea Restaurant
699 Avenue of the Palms
Treasure Island
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-480-4239
Website »
The Playhouse presents The Ginerbread Man, a very special, interactive experience designed for the littlest audience members, where local high school performers bring a classic...
Cost: $10-12
Where:
Palo Alto Children's Theatre
1305 Middlefield Road
Palo Alto, CA
View map »
Get ready for a full-force, non-stop show of thrilling feats at Circus Bella’s winter spectacular, KALEIDOSCOPE. Circus Bella has been performing free circus in the parks all over the Bay...
Cost: $39, $55, $150
Where:
Mersea Meadow
699 Avenue of the Palms
San Francisco, CA 94130
View map »
Sponsor: Circus Bella
Telephone: 224-267-5363
Contact Name: Orlene Gentile
Website »
Broadway heavy-hitters Alan Menken Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Disney’s Little Mermaid and Lynn Ahrens (Ragtime, Seussical) breathe new life into this musical adaptation of the...
Cost: $25-52
Where:
Hillbarn Theatre
1285 E. Hillsdale Blvd.
Foster City, CA
View map »
Telephone: 650-349-6411
Website »
This long-running musical parody features iconic holiday characters like Christmas King. Louis, Mr. Peanut Santa and a chorus of tap-dancing Christmas trees. Expect spoofs of pop culture and...
Cost: $30-155
Where:
Club Fugazi
678 Beach Blanket Blvd.
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-421-4222
Website »
See this classic, presented by Center REPertory, brimming with music and dance, special effects and scary ghosts. Show times vary. For more information go...
Cost: $28-42
Where:
Lesher Center for the Arts
Hofmann Theatre
1601 Civic Drive
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
View map »
Telephone: 925-943-7469
Website »
Take a holiday adventure into Victorian London and marvel at 800 costumed characters in music halls, pubs, theaters, dance parties and more. Dozens of lamp-lit shots will be stocked with Christmas...
Cost: $30 adults, $14 ages 5-12, under 5 FREE
Where:
Cow Palace Exhibition Halls
2600 Geneva Ave.
Daly City, CA
View map »
Telephone: 800-510-1558
Website »
Ride a holiday train through Victorian Santa Cruz as you sip hot spiced cider, listen to carolers, meet Santa & Mrs. Claus. November 23, 2018 - December 23, 2018...
Cost: $33 ages 13 and up, $27 2-12, under 2 FREE
Where:
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
400 Beach St.
, CA
View map »
See Santa’s reindeer Belle, Holly and Peppermint and enjoy dazzling light displays. Then take a spin on the carousel set to holiday music.
Cost: Included with admission: $23 adults, $17 children 4-14, under 4 FREE
Where:
San Francisco Zoo
Sloat Boulevard and Great Highway
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-753-7080
Website »
This annual Tri-Valley presentation of The Nutcracker will bring Tchaikovsky's music and ballet to life with elaborate sets, skilled dancers and beautiful costumes. Dec. 8: 2pm and 7pm...
Cost: $21-42
Where:
Bankhead Theater
2400 First St.
Livermore, CA 94551
View map »
Telephone: 925-243-0925
Website »
A three-dimensional yearbook-style exhibition explores what it has meant to be a LGHS Wildcat over the course of the school's 100 years+ history. Visitors don’t have to be a graduate or...
Cost: $6-10, under 18 FREE
Where:
New Museum Los Gatos | NUMU
106 E. Main St.
Los Gatos, CA 95030
View map »
Telephone: 408-354-2646
Website »
Visit the Dunsmuir Hellman Historic Estate, decked out in Edwardian holiday splendor, for mansion tours, a high tea on Sun., Dec. 9, brunch with Santa on Sun. Dec. 16, family photo sessions, a...
Cost: $12-22 general, high tea $15-55, Santa brunch $15-35
Where:
Dunsmuir Hellman Historic Estate
2960 Peralta Oaks Court
Oakland , CA 94605
View map »
Telephone: 510-615-5555
Website »
This year’s event features snow flurries, a hands-on polar themed exhibit, a festive ice rink, live performances and a Snowman Theater.
Cost: Most activities included with admission: $35.95 adults, $30.95 youth ages 12-17,
Where:
California Academy of Sciences
Golden Gate Park
55 Music Concourse Drive
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-379-8000
Website »
Throwing it back to the big band stylings of the ‘30s and ‘40s, this musical brings the sounds of uptown New York to downtown San Jose for the holidays. With a cast of nine singers...
Cost: $38-48
Where:
Tabard Theatre
29 N. San Pedro St.
San Jose, CA
View map »
Get into the holiday spirit by taking a spin out on this rink. 9am-1pm weekdays. 9am-5pm weekends.
Cost: Included with admission: $14.95.
Where:
Bay Area Discovery Museum
557 McReynolds Road
Sausalito, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-339-3900
Website »
This show is set to holiday tunes and features an array of dance styles including classical ballet, tap, jazz and swing. A highlight is Santa Baby featuring a 42-foot-long feather boa.
Cost: $25-89
Where:
Yerba Buena Center for the Arts
700 Howard St.
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-912-1899
Website »
Combine and design with nature’s loose parts in Bill’s Backyard to take part in an ever-changing collaborative art project. Meet the artist, Zach Pine, on Nov. 24, Dec. 14, Dec. 29-30...
Cost: adults: $15; children: $15; seniors: $14; infants and members are free.
Where:
Children’s Discovery Museum of San Jose
180 Woz Way
San Jose, CA 95110
View map »
Inspired in part of the adventurous spirit of street sports, this show combines acrobatics and music while exploring how technology often isolates people from one another than freeing them.
Cost: $54-45
Where:
AT&T Park
24 Willie Mays Plaza
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 877-924-7783
Website »
Grab your flamingo and tumble into Wonderland: Alice’s Rock and Roll Adventure, a Bay Area Children’s Theatre production for ages 5-12. Weekends, Nov. 17-Jan. 6.. Show...
Cost: $28 adults, $24 ages 2-14
Where:
BACT’s Berkeley Theatre Center
2055 Center St.
Berkeley, CA 94704
View map »
Telephone: 510-296-4433
Website »
MACLA's most visible and popular exhibition takes inventory of the critical edge and aesthetic interventions within contemporary Chicano art. A cross-generational survey of art by...
Cost: FREE
Where:
MACLA
500 S. First St.
San Jose, CA 95113
View map »
Great America celebrates all things winter with this month-long celebration. Ice skate in front of the iconic carousel, enjoy magnificent light displays, take a walk through Santa’s workshop...
Cost: $26 and up
Where:
Great America
4701 Great America Parkway
Santa Clara, CA
View map »
This family show features colorful giant puppets and is inspired by Eric Carle’s stories Dream Snow, Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See and A Very Hungry Caterpillar. Recommended for...
Cost: $28 adults, $24 children
Where:
Children's Creativity Museum
221 4th St.
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 510-296-4433
Website »
The first Nutcracker in the United States premiered in San Francisco in 1944. This favorite holiday production features snowflakes, dancing flowers and a little girl who dreams about a whole new...
Cost: $39-420
Where:
War Memorial Opera House
301 Van Ness Ave.
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-865-2000
Website »
Tea sandwiches, scones and a kid-friendly buffet and dessert buffet are on the menu for this annual tea. There will be balloons, face painting, a nutcracker and cookie decorating, plus visits...
Cost: $80, $75 with unwrapped toy donation
Where:
Intercontinental Mark Hopkins
999 California St.
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-616-6941
Website »
This production features a cast of dozens, gorgeous costumes and spooky ghosts.
Cost: $15-200
Where:
A.C.T.’s Geary Theater
415 Geary Street
San Francisco , CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-749- 2228
Website »
In this annual tradition, children dine on hot chocolate and teddy bear cookies and sandwiches while being entertained by an elf and a giant teddy bear. Each child receives a teddy bear gift and...
Cost: $130
Where:
Ritz-Carlton Hotel
600 Stockton St.
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-296-7465
Website »
This condensed version of the classic holiday ballet is designed for children ages 3-6.
Cost: Call for prices
Where:
Peninsula Ballet Theatre
Studio One
1880 S. Grant St.
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 650-342-3262
Website »
When a storm hits her farm, Dorothy and her dog are swept over the rainbow to a magical land. Nov. 9-Dec. 23 1pm, 2pm and 7pm
Cost: $20-40
Where:
The Julia Morgan Theater
2640 College Ave.
Berkeley, CA 94704
View map »
Telephone: 510-845-8542, ext. 351
Website »
Walk through this two-story gingerbread house to a tea with holiday entertainment. Check website for times.
Cost: $119, $89 under 12
Where:
Laurel Court Restaurant
Fairmont Hotel
950 Mason St.
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 877-979-9608
Website »
The holiday season is here, and Great Mall, one of the largest premiere shopping and entertainment destinations in Northern California, is hosting several festivities for the whole family to enjoy....
Cost: FREE
Where:
Great Mall
447 Great Mall Dr.
Milpitas, CA 95035
View map »
Contact Name: Great Mall
Website »
Enjoy a free family-friendly creative activity this holiday season at the Stanford Shopping Center and be a part of history! Stop by one of the "Voices of the Community" art...
Cost: FREE
Where:
Stanford Shopping Center
660 Stanford Shopping Center
Palo Alto , CA 94304
View map »
Sponsor: Stanford Medicine
Telephone: (650) 497-7277
Contact Name: Thea Moreno
Website »
The Artists, Poets, and Impresarios of the Late 1940’s in Sausalito When World War II ended in 1945, men and women who had fought to overcome tyranny abroad came home and sought to create lives...
Cost: Free
Where:
Bay Model Visitor Center
2100 Bridgeway
Sausalito, CA 94965
View map »
Sponsor: Bay Model Visitor Center
Telephone: 415-332-3871
Contact Name: Bay Model Visitor Center
Website »
CURIODYSSEY’S ILLUMINODYSSEY A WINTER LIGHT EXPERIENCE FOR KIDS November 2 - January 6 | 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. November 2, December 7, January 4, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Electrify your...
Cost: $9.50-$13.50
Where:
CuriOdyssey
1651 Coyote Point Drive
San Mateo, CA 94401
View map »
Sponsor: CuriOdyssey
Telephone: 650-342-7755
Contact Name: CuriOdyssey
Website »
It's Santa photo time! Reserve your FastPass and skip the line to see Santa by visiting: https://www.santasfastpass.com/scheduling/Yeps4KXZ:stoneridge-shopping-center
Cost: Free
Where:
1 Stoneridge Mall Rd
Pleasanton, CA 94588
View map »
Visit Santa and have photos taken at the Jelly Belly Visitor Center as this candy palace becomes a winter wonderland. A professional photographer will be onsite, but feel free to bring your own...
Cost: Free
Where:
Jelly Belly Visitor Center
One Jelly Belly Lane
Fairfield, CA 94533
View map »
Sponsor: Jelly Belly Candy Company
Telephone: 1-800-953-5592
Website »
It's Santa photo time! Reserve your FastPass and skip the line to see Santa by visiting: https://www.santasfastpass.com/scheduling/Y_bsdDv3:stanford-shopping-center
Cost: Free
Where:
Stanford Shopping Center
660 Stanford Shopping Center
Palo Alto, CA 94304
View map »
Facilitated by Suzanne Bergeron -Relax with other parents as your children play safely in our playroom. -Share your parenting challenges in a supportive environment. -Listen to and learn...
Cost: FREE!
Where:
Safe & Sound
1757 Waller Street
San Francisco, CA 94117
View map »
Telephone: 415-668-0494
Contact Name: Russell Stephens
Website »
WHAT: Bayfair Center invites children and their families to visit with Santa Claus to share their wish lists and all the magic of the holiday season from November 17th through December 24th....
Cost: 24.99 to $49.99
Where:
Bayfair Center
15555 East 14th Street
San Leandro, CA 94578
View map »
Head over to Westgate Center for your photos with Santa. Check website for time and prices. Nov. 17-Dec. 24.
Cost: TBA
Where:
Westgate Center - Center Court by Ross
1600 Saratoga Ave.
San Jose, CA 95129
View map »
Celebrate the winter holidays of many cultures at Children's Fairyland: Christmas, Chanukah, Kwanzaa, Las Posadas, Diwali, and Chinese New Year. You'll enjoy stories, crafts, special...
Cost: $10 general, $5 Fairyland members
Where:
Children's Fairyland
699 Bellevue Ave.
Oakland, CA 94610
View map »
Sponsor: Children's Fairyland
Telephone: 510-238-6876
Website »
The exhibit features a collection of iron toys, antique shaving mugs, children’s books and dolls, advertising boxes, and other items that would have been given as presents in days gone by.
Cost: FREE
Where:
Los Altos History Museum
51 S San Antonio Road
Los Altos, CA 94022
View map »
Sponsor: Los Altos History Museum
Website »
The story of Juana Briones is a tale of resilience, ingenuity and business savvy – the hallmarks of Silicon Valley. Juana Briones was an early entrepreneur who owned several...
Cost: FREE
Where:
Los Altos History Museum
51 S San Antonio Road
Los Altos, CA 94022
View map »
Sponsor: Los Altos History Museum
Website »
Santa Clara Ice at Central Park is proud of bring ice skating back to Central Park from November 19, 2019 - January 21, 2019! Santa Clara Ice is your winter home for fun. Monday-Thursday 2:00 PM...
Cost: $10 - $15 per person
Where:
Central Park
969 Kiely Boulevard
Santa Clara, CA 95051
View map »
Sponsor: Silicon Valley Power and City of Santa Clara Parks & Recreation
Telephone: 408-615-3140
Website »
Golden State Youth Orchestra Mid-Season Auditions Musicians ages 6-18 are invited to audition for Golden State Youth Orchestra! Palo Alto-based Golden State Youth Orchestra (GSYO) invites...
Cost: $25 audition fee
Where:
GSYO Office
4055 Fabian Way
Palo Alto, CA
View map »
Sponsor: Golden State Youth Orchestra
Telephone: 650-665-9046
Website »
Teens 14-18 are invited to play with or compete against others in the library Tech Lab everyday afterschool hours.
Cost: FREE
Where:
Mitchell Park Library
3700 Middlefield Road
Palo Alto, CA 94303
View map »
Stressed on finals week? Mitchell Park Library has you covered. You can study in the library, or drop in for snacks and emotional support. There will be calming therapy dogs in the library you can...
Cost: FREE
Where:
Mitchell Park Library
3700 Middlefield Road
Palo Alto, CA 94303
View map »
Apres, an elegant outdoor lounge, emulates a cozy mountainside retreat with apres-ski cuisine and drinks. There will be snow fall every hour between 4-11pm. There are fireside movies at...
Cost: FREE with purchase of food and beverage; reservations suggested
Where:
Four Seasons Hotel Silicon Valley
2050 University Ave.
East Palo Alto, CA
View map »
Telephone: 800-819-5053
Website »
Festive lights, Santa, ice skating and live shows in the tradition of the holiday season. Feast on turkey and all the trimmings and bundle up with family for a ride around the park on the train....
Cost: TBA
Where:
Gilroy Gardens
3050 Hecker Pass Hwy
Gilroy, CA 95020
View map »
A yoga classes designed specifically for kids every 1st and 3rd Friday of the month September -December! Along with yoga, each themed class is accompanied by other elements such as...
Cost: FREE
Where:
Morgan Hill Library
660 W Main Ave,
Morgan Hill, CA 95037
View map »
High school yoga at Yama Kids Yoga will introduce yoga to teens (14-18yo). We'll take them through beginning postures, but we'll also do inversions - headstands and handstands,...
Cost: $25
Where:
Yama Kids Yoga studio
2631 Ashby Ave
Ste. A
Berkeley, CA 94705
View map »
Telephone: 650-520-1937
Website »
The world premiere exhibition by internationally-acclaimed artist Bruce Munro, opens this Sunday, October 28, at Montalvo Arts Center, located on 175 acres in the Silicon Valley,...
Cost: $15-27
Where:
Montalvo Arts Center
15400 Montalvo Road
Saratoga, CA
View map »
Drive through a 1.5-mile-long annual holiday lights display in Vasona Lake County Park to see electric dinosaurs and penguins, Santa shooting hoops and so much more. Dec. 4-30, closed Dec. 25. All...
Cost: $20/car
Where:
Vasona Lake County Park
333 Blossom Hill Road
Los Gatos, CA
View map »
December 14-23, Fridays & Saturdays 7:30pm, Saturdays & Sundays 2pm Based on one of the most popular Disney movies of all time, Disney and Cameron Mackintosh's youth musical...
Cost: $7-$18; youth, senior discounts.
Where:
Amador Theater
1155 Santa Rita Road
Pleasanton, CA 94566
View map »
Sponsor: City of Pleasanton Firehouse Arts Center
Telephone: 925-931-4848
Website »
This long-running musical parody features iconic holiday characters like Christmas King. Louis, Mr. Peanut Santa and a chorus of tap-dancing Christmas trees. Expect spoofs of pop culture and...
Cost: $30-155
Where:
Club Fugazi
678 Beach Blanket Blvd.
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-421-4222
Website »
This show is set to holiday tunes and features an array of dance styles including classical ballet, tap, jazz and swing. A highlight is Santa Baby featuring a 42-foot-long feather boa.
Cost: $25-89
Where:
Yerba Buena Center for the Arts
700 Howard St.
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-912-1899
Website »
Walk through this two-story gingerbread house to a tea with holiday entertainment. Check website for times.
Cost: $119, $89 under 12
Where:
Laurel Court Restaurant
Fairmont Hotel
950 Mason St.
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 877-979-9608
Website »
The first Nutcracker in the United States premiered in San Francisco in 1944. This favorite holiday production features snowflakes, dancing flowers and a little girl who dreams about a whole new...
Cost: $39-420
Where:
War Memorial Opera House
301 Van Ness Ave.
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-865-2000
Website »
MACLA's most visible and popular exhibition takes inventory of the critical edge and aesthetic interventions within contemporary Chicano art. A cross-generational survey of art by...
Cost: FREE
Where:
MACLA
500 S. First St.
San Jose, CA 95113
View map »
Take a holiday adventure into Victorian London and marvel at 800 costumed characters in music halls, pubs, theaters, dance parties and more. Dozens of lamp-lit shots will be stocked with Christmas...
Cost: $30 adults, $14 ages 5-12, under 5 FREE
Where:
Cow Palace Exhibition Halls
2600 Geneva Ave.
Daly City, CA
View map »
Telephone: 800-510-1558
Website »
A three-dimensional yearbook-style exhibition explores what it has meant to be a LGHS Wildcat over the course of the school's 100 years+ history. Visitors don’t have to be a graduate or...
Cost: $6-10, under 18 FREE
Where:
New Museum Los Gatos | NUMU
106 E. Main St.
Los Gatos, CA 95030
View map »
Telephone: 408-354-2646
Website »
The San Jose Nutcracker takes place in San Jose at the turn of the last century. Presented in partnership with History San Jose, and featuring the voices of Ragazzi Premiere singers, it tells the...
Cost: $19 and up
Where:
SJSU Hammer Theatre Center
101 Paseo De San Antonio
San Jose, CA
View map »
Combine and design with nature’s loose parts in Bill’s Backyard to take part in an ever-changing collaborative art project. Meet the artist, Zach Pine, on Nov. 24, Dec. 14, Dec. 29-30...
Cost: adults: $15; children: $15; seniors: $14; infants and members are free.
Where:
Children’s Discovery Museum of San Jose
180 Woz Way
San Jose, CA 95110
View map »
The magical world of storytelling mechanical sculptures known as automata returns to the Exploratorium for the third year in a row. Watch these miniature dramas unfold while observing the low-tech...
Cost: $29.95 adults, $19.95 ages 4-12, under 4 FREE
Where:
Pier 15
Embarcadero at Green Street
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-528-4444
Website »
In this annual tradition, children dine on hot chocolate and teddy bear cookies and sandwiches while being entertained by an elf and a giant teddy bear. Each child receives a teddy bear gift and...
Cost: $130
Where:
Ritz-Carlton Hotel
600 Stockton St.
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-296-7465
Website »
This Bay Area circus celebrates diversity and color and features aerialists, acrobats, jugglers, high wire artists, family foot jugglers, clowns and more. Shows are Thu-Sun. Check website for times.
Cost: $39-150
Where:
Near Mersea Restaurant
699 Avenue of the Palms
Treasure Island
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-480-4239
Website »
Ride a holiday train through Victorian Santa Cruz as you sip hot spiced cider, listen to carolers, meet Santa & Mrs. Claus. November 23, 2018 - December 23, 2018...
Cost: $33 ages 13 and up, $27 2-12, under 2 FREE
Where:
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
400 Beach St.
, CA
View map »
Bring a can of food and bowl a game for free. All donations go to Second Harvest Food Bank of Santa Cruz County to fee local families. Does not include shoe rental.
Cost: FREE,.
Where:
Santa Cruz Boardwalk
400 Beach St.
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
View map »
Get into the holiday spirit by taking a spin out on this rink. 9am-1pm weekdays. 9am-5pm weekends.
Cost: Included with admission: $14.95.
Where:
Bay Area Discovery Museum
557 McReynolds Road
Sausalito, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-339-3900
Website »
Visit the Dunsmuir Hellman Historic Estate, decked out in Edwardian holiday splendor, for mansion tours, a high tea on Sun., Dec. 9, brunch with Santa on Sun. Dec. 16, family photo sessions, a...
Cost: $12-22 general, high tea $15-55, Santa brunch $15-35
Where:
Dunsmuir Hellman Historic Estate
2960 Peralta Oaks Court
Oakland , CA 94605
View map »
Telephone: 510-615-5555
Website »
The pop culture phenomenon School House Rock comes to the stage! Featuring the classic songs of the Emmy-Award winning series, including Just a Bill, Conjunction Junction,...
Cost: $12-14
Where:
Palo Alto Children's Theatre
1305 Middlefield Road
Palo Alto, CA
View map »
This family show features colorful giant puppets and is inspired by Eric Carle’s stories Dream Snow, Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See and A Very Hungry Caterpillar. Recommended for...
Cost: $28 adults, $24 children
Where:
Children's Creativity Museum
221 4th St.
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 510-296-4433
Website »
Taste the special Filoli holiday blend and enjoy finger sandwiches, scones and holiday treats. Check websites for days and times.
Cost: $75
Where:
Filoli
86 Cañada Road
Woodside, CA
View map »
Telephone: 650-364-8300
Website »
Inspired in part of the adventurous spirit of street sports, this show combines acrobatics and music while exploring how technology often isolates people from one another than freeing them.
Cost: $54-45
Where:
AT&T Park
24 Willie Mays Plaza
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 877-924-7783
Website »
Make friends as you explore the importance of images, sounds, and graphics while creating your own animated projects.
Cost: FREE
Where:
MACLA
500 S. First St.
San Jose, CA 95113
View map »
Bay Area artists Monica Canilao and Xara Thustra collaborate for their first large-scale exhibition that explores feminist and anti-capitalist themes and challenges viewers to step back and...
Cost: Admission $8-10, children under 5 FREE
Where:
Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History
705 Front St.
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
View map »
Telephone: 831-429-1964
Website »
Tea sandwiches, scones and a kid-friendly buffet and dessert buffet are on the menu for this annual tea. There will be balloons, face painting, a nutcracker and cookie decorating, plus visits...
Cost: $80, $75 with unwrapped toy donation
Where:
Intercontinental Mark Hopkins
999 California St.
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-616-6941
Website »
This year’s event features snow flurries, a hands-on polar themed exhibit, a festive ice rink, live performances and a Snowman Theater.
Cost: Most activities included with admission: $35.95 adults, $30.95 youth ages 12-17,
Where:
California Academy of Sciences
Golden Gate Park
55 Music Concourse Drive
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-379-8000
Website »
This 50-minute performance features danced storytelling with live music.
Cost: Call for prices
Where:
Cowell Theater
Fort Mason Center
Marina Boulevard and Buchanan Street
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-345-7575
Website »
This production features a cast of dozens, gorgeous costumes and spooky ghosts.
Cost: $15-200
Where:
A.C.T.’s Geary Theater
415 Geary Street
San Francisco , CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-749- 2228
Website »
See Santa’s reindeer Belle, Holly and Peppermint and enjoy dazzling light displays. Then take a spin on the carousel set to holiday music.
Cost: Included with admission: $23 adults, $17 children 4-14, under 4 FREE
Where:
San Francisco Zoo
Sloat Boulevard and Great Highway
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-753-7080
Website »
Great America celebrates all things winter with this month-long celebration. Ice skate in front of the iconic carousel, enjoy magnificent light displays, take a walk through Santa’s workshop...
Cost: $26 and up
Where:
Great America
4701 Great America Parkway
Santa Clara, CA
View map »
Enjoy a free family-friendly creative activity this holiday season at the Stanford Shopping Center and be a part of history! Stop by one of the "Voices of the Community" art...
Cost: FREE
Where:
Stanford Shopping Center
660 Stanford Shopping Center
Palo Alto , CA 94304
View map »
Sponsor: Stanford Medicine
Telephone: (650) 497-7277
Contact Name: Thea Moreno
Website »
The Artists, Poets, and Impresarios of the Late 1940’s in Sausalito When World War II ended in 1945, men and women who had fought to overcome tyranny abroad came home and sought to create lives...
Cost: Free
Where:
Bay Model Visitor Center
2100 Bridgeway
Sausalito, CA 94965
View map »
Sponsor: Bay Model Visitor Center
Telephone: 415-332-3871
Contact Name: Bay Model Visitor Center
Website »
The holiday season is here, and Great Mall, one of the largest premiere shopping and entertainment destinations in Northern California, is hosting several festivities for the whole family to enjoy....
Cost: FREE
Where:
Great Mall
447 Great Mall Dr.
Milpitas, CA 95035
View map »
Contact Name: Great Mall
Website »
Enjoy a day full of rides, entertainment, animal meet and greets, fun and more during ½ price off admission day.
Cost: $7
Where:
Happy Hollow Park and Zoo
1300 Senter Road
San Jose, CA
View map »
Drop in with your child, ages 1-6, for open studio time with guided STEAM activities provided by the staff.
Cost: $14
Where:
Hands-On! invent. create. discover.
1411 Martin Luther King Jr Way
Berkeley, CA 94709
View map »
Telephone: 510-985-9222
Website »
CURIODYSSEY’S ILLUMINODYSSEY A WINTER LIGHT EXPERIENCE FOR KIDS November 2 - January 6 | 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. November 2, December 7, January 4, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Electrify your...
Cost: $9.50-$13.50
Where:
CuriOdyssey
1651 Coyote Point Drive
San Mateo, CA 94401
View map »
Sponsor: CuriOdyssey
Telephone: 650-342-7755
Contact Name: CuriOdyssey
Website »
Visit Santa and have photos taken at the Jelly Belly Visitor Center as this candy palace becomes a winter wonderland. A professional photographer will be onsite, but feel free to bring your own...
Cost: Free
Where:
Jelly Belly Visitor Center
One Jelly Belly Lane
Fairfield, CA 94533
View map »
Sponsor: Jelly Belly Candy Company
Telephone: 1-800-953-5592
Website »
WHAT: Bayfair Center invites children and their families to visit with Santa Claus to share their wish lists and all the magic of the holiday season from November 17th through December 24th....
Cost: 24.99 to $49.99
Where:
Bayfair Center
15555 East 14th Street
San Leandro, CA 94578
View map »
It's Santa photo time! Reserve your FastPass and skip the line to see Santa by visiting: https://www.santasfastpass.com/scheduling/Yeps4KXZ:stoneridge-shopping-center
Cost: Free
Where:
1 Stoneridge Mall Rd
Pleasanton, CA 94588
View map »
Head over to Westgate Center for your photos with Santa. Check website for time and prices. Nov. 17-Dec. 24.
Cost: TBA
Where:
Westgate Center - Center Court by Ross
1600 Saratoga Ave.
San Jose, CA 95129
View map »
It's Santa photo time! Reserve your FastPass and skip the line to see Santa by visiting: https://www.santasfastpass.com/scheduling/Y_bsdDv3:stanford-shopping-center
Cost: Free
Where:
Stanford Shopping Center
660 Stanford Shopping Center
Palo Alto, CA 94304
View map »
The exhibit features a collection of iron toys, antique shaving mugs, children’s books and dolls, advertising boxes, and other items that would have been given as presents in days gone by.
Cost: FREE
Where:
Los Altos History Museum
51 S San Antonio Road
Los Altos, CA 94022
View map »
Sponsor: Los Altos History Museum
Website »
The story of Juana Briones is a tale of resilience, ingenuity and business savvy – the hallmarks of Silicon Valley. Juana Briones was an early entrepreneur who owned several...
Cost: FREE
Where:
Los Altos History Museum
51 S San Antonio Road
Los Altos, CA 94022
View map »
Sponsor: Los Altos History Museum
Website »
Celebrate the winter holidays of many cultures at Children's Fairyland: Christmas, Chanukah, Kwanzaa, Las Posadas, Diwali, and Chinese New Year. You'll enjoy stories, crafts, special...
Cost: $10 general, $5 Fairyland members
Where:
Children's Fairyland
699 Bellevue Ave.
Oakland, CA 94610
View map »
Sponsor: Children's Fairyland
Telephone: 510-238-6876
Website »
Boo! Hiss! Cheer!It is our fifth PantoSF year with "Sleeping Beauty the Panto"Its 2018 were are not sleeping! We are wide awake!.. Back by popular demand with a brand new panto following up from...
Cost: $25 - $50
Where:
Custom Made Theatre
533 Sutter St.
San Francisco, CA 94102
View map »
Sponsor: Panto SF
Contact Name: Patricia Miller
Website »
Boo! Hiss! Cheer! It is our fifth PantoSF year with "Sleeping Beauty the Panto" Its 2018 were are not sleeping! We are wide awake! Back by popular demand with a brand new panto...
Cost: $25 -50
Where:
Custom Made Theatre
533 Sutter St.
San Francisco, CA 94102
View map »
Sponsor: Panto SF
Contact Name: Patricia Miller
Website »
Santa Clara Ice at Central Park is proud of bring ice skating back to Central Park from November 19, 2019 - January 21, 2019! Santa Clara Ice is your winter home for fun. Monday-Thursday 2:00 PM...
Cost: $10 - $15 per person
Where:
Central Park
969 Kiely Boulevard
Santa Clara, CA 95051
View map »
Sponsor: Silicon Valley Power and City of Santa Clara Parks & Recreation
Telephone: 408-615-3140
Website »
Golden State Youth Orchestra Mid-Season Auditions Musicians ages 6-18 are invited to audition for Golden State Youth Orchestra! Palo Alto-based Golden State Youth Orchestra (GSYO) invites...
Cost: $25 audition fee
Where:
GSYO Office
4055 Fabian Way
Palo Alto, CA
View map »
Sponsor: Golden State Youth Orchestra
Telephone: 650-665-9046
Website »
Teens 14-18 are invited to play with or compete against others in the library Tech Lab everyday afterschool hours.
Cost: FREE
Where:
Mitchell Park Library
3700 Middlefield Road
Palo Alto, CA 94303
View map »
Stressed on finals week? Mitchell Park Library has you covered. You can study in the library, or drop in for snacks and emotional support. There will be calming therapy dogs in the library you can...
Cost: FREE
Where:
Mitchell Park Library
3700 Middlefield Road
Palo Alto, CA 94303
View map »
A yoga classes designed specifically for kids every 1st and 3rd Friday of the month September -December! Along with yoga, each themed class is accompanied by other elements such as...
Cost: FREE
Where:
Morgan Hill Library
660 W Main Ave,
Morgan Hill, CA 95037
View map »
Apres, an elegant outdoor lounge, emulates a cozy mountainside retreat with apres-ski cuisine and drinks. There will be snow fall every hour between 4-11pm. There are fireside movies at...
Cost: FREE with purchase of food and beverage; reservations suggested
Where:
Four Seasons Hotel Silicon Valley
2050 University Ave.
East Palo Alto, CA
View map »
Telephone: 800-819-5053
Website »
Festive lights, Santa, ice skating and live shows in the tradition of the holiday season. Feast on turkey and all the trimmings and bundle up with family for a ride around the park on the train....
Cost: TBA
Where:
Gilroy Gardens
3050 Hecker Pass Hwy
Gilroy, CA 95020
View map »
Teens, get your "game on!" Come hang out, meet people, and play Wii video games. Bring your friends! Wii video games for teens the third Tuesday each month in the Community...
Cost: FREE
Where:
Santa Teresa Branch Library
290 International Circle
San Jose, CA 95119
View map »
Drive through a 1.5-mile-long annual holiday lights display in Vasona Lake County Park to see electric dinosaurs and penguins, Santa shooting hoops and so much more. Dec. 4-30, closed Dec. 25. All...
Cost: $20/car
Where:
Vasona Lake County Park
333 Blossom Hill Road
Los Gatos, CA
View map »
The world premiere exhibition by internationally-acclaimed artist Bruce Munro, opens this Sunday, October 28, at Montalvo Arts Center, located on 175 acres in the Silicon Valley,...
Cost: $15-27
Where:
Montalvo Arts Center
15400 Montalvo Road
Saratoga, CA
View map »
December 14-23, Fridays & Saturdays 7:30pm, Saturdays & Sundays 2pm Based on one of the most popular Disney movies of all time, Disney and Cameron Mackintosh's youth musical...
Cost: $7-$18; youth, senior discounts.
Where:
Amador Theater
1155 Santa Rita Road
Pleasanton, CA 94566
View map »
Sponsor: City of Pleasanton Firehouse Arts Center
Telephone: 925-931-4848
Website »
Come to a family skating session each Tuesday evening for all ages to practice their moves on the ice at a special rate. There will be no Tuesday Family Night sessions between Dec. 18-Jan....
Cost: $8 each skater, includes skate rental
Where:
Dublin Iceland
7212 San Ramon Road
Dublin, CA 94568
View map »
Telephone: 925-829-4445
Website »
This family show features colorful giant puppets and is inspired by Eric Carle’s stories Dream Snow, Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See and A Very Hungry Caterpillar. Recommended for...
Cost: $28 adults, $24 children
Where:
Children's Creativity Museum
221 4th St.
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 510-296-4433
Website »
This long-running musical parody features iconic holiday characters like Christmas King. Louis, Mr. Peanut Santa and a chorus of tap-dancing Christmas trees. Expect spoofs of pop culture and...
Cost: $30-155
Where:
Club Fugazi
678 Beach Blanket Blvd.
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-421-4222
Website »
The San Jose Nutcracker takes place in San Jose at the turn of the last century. Presented in partnership with History San Jose, and featuring the voices of Ragazzi Premiere singers, it tells the...
Cost: $19 and up
Where:
SJSU Hammer Theatre Center
101 Paseo De San Antonio
San Jose, CA
View map »
Taste the special Filoli holiday blend and enjoy finger sandwiches, scones and holiday treats. Check websites for days and times.
Cost: $75
Where:
Filoli
86 Cañada Road
Woodside, CA
View map »
Telephone: 650-364-8300
Website »
In this annual tradition, children dine on hot chocolate and teddy bear cookies and sandwiches while being entertained by an elf and a giant teddy bear. Each child receives a teddy bear gift and...
Cost: $130
Where:
Ritz-Carlton Hotel
600 Stockton St.
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-296-7465
Website »
Take a holiday adventure into Victorian London and marvel at 800 costumed characters in music halls, pubs, theaters, dance parties and more. Dozens of lamp-lit shots will be stocked with Christmas...
Cost: $30 adults, $14 ages 5-12, under 5 FREE
Where:
Cow Palace Exhibition Halls
2600 Geneva Ave.
Daly City, CA
View map »
Telephone: 800-510-1558
Website »
Bring a can of food and bowl a game for free. All donations go to Second Harvest Food Bank of Santa Cruz County to fee local families. Does not include shoe rental.
Cost: FREE,.
Where:
Santa Cruz Boardwalk
400 Beach St.
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
View map »
Tea sandwiches, scones and a kid-friendly buffet and dessert buffet are on the menu for this annual tea. There will be balloons, face painting, a nutcracker and cookie decorating, plus visits...
Cost: $80, $75 with unwrapped toy donation
Where:
Intercontinental Mark Hopkins
999 California St.
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-616-6941
Website »
This Bay Area circus celebrates diversity and color and features aerialists, acrobats, jugglers, high wire artists, family foot jugglers, clowns and more. Shows are Thu-Sun. Check website for times.
Cost: $39-150
Where:
Near Mersea Restaurant
699 Avenue of the Palms
Treasure Island
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-480-4239
Website »
Walk through this two-story gingerbread house to a tea with holiday entertainment. Check website for times.
Cost: $119, $89 under 12
Where:
Laurel Court Restaurant
Fairmont Hotel
950 Mason St.
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 877-979-9608
Website »
Visit the Dunsmuir Hellman Historic Estate, decked out in Edwardian holiday splendor, for mansion tours, a high tea on Sun., Dec. 9, brunch with Santa on Sun. Dec. 16, family photo sessions, a...
Cost: $12-22 general, high tea $15-55, Santa brunch $15-35
Where:
Dunsmuir Hellman Historic Estate
2960 Peralta Oaks Court
Oakland , CA 94605
View map »
Telephone: 510-615-5555
Website »
The magical world of storytelling mechanical sculptures known as automata returns to the Exploratorium for the third year in a row. Watch these miniature dramas unfold while observing the low-tech...
Cost: $29.95 adults, $19.95 ages 4-12, under 4 FREE
Where:
Pier 15
Embarcadero at Green Street
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-528-4444
Website »
Combine and design with nature’s loose parts in Bill’s Backyard to take part in an ever-changing collaborative art project. Meet the artist, Zach Pine, on Nov. 24, Dec. 14, Dec. 29-30...
Cost: adults: $15; children: $15; seniors: $14; infants and members are free.
Where:
Children’s Discovery Museum of San Jose
180 Woz Way
San Jose, CA 95110
View map »
This 50-minute performance features danced storytelling with live music.
Cost: Call for prices
Where:
Cowell Theater
Fort Mason Center
Marina Boulevard and Buchanan Street
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-345-7575
Website »
This show is set to holiday tunes and features an array of dance styles including classical ballet, tap, jazz and swing. A highlight is Santa Baby featuring a 42-foot-long feather boa.
Cost: $25-89
Where:
Yerba Buena Center for the Arts
700 Howard St.
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-912-1899
Website »
Bay Area artists Monica Canilao and Xara Thustra collaborate for their first large-scale exhibition that explores feminist and anti-capitalist themes and challenges viewers to step back and...
Cost: Admission $8-10, children under 5 FREE
Where:
Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History
705 Front St.
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
View map »
Telephone: 831-429-1964
Website »
The first Nutcracker in the United States premiered in San Francisco in 1944. This favorite holiday production features snowflakes, dancing flowers and a little girl who dreams about a whole new...
Cost: $39-420
Where:
War Memorial Opera House
301 Van Ness Ave.
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-865-2000
Website »
The pop culture phenomenon School House Rock comes to the stage! Featuring the classic songs of the Emmy-Award winning series, including Just a Bill, Conjunction Junction,...
Cost: $12-14
Where:
Palo Alto Children's Theatre
1305 Middlefield Road
Palo Alto, CA
View map »
MACLA's most visible and popular exhibition takes inventory of the critical edge and aesthetic interventions within contemporary Chicano art. A cross-generational survey of art by...
Cost: FREE
Where:
MACLA
500 S. First St.
San Jose, CA 95113
View map »
Great America celebrates all things winter with this month-long celebration. Ice skate in front of the iconic carousel, enjoy magnificent light displays, take a walk through Santa’s workshop...
Cost: $26 and up
Where:
Great America
4701 Great America Parkway
Santa Clara, CA
View map »
A three-dimensional yearbook-style exhibition explores what it has meant to be a LGHS Wildcat over the course of the school's 100 years+ history. Visitors don’t have to be a graduate or...
Cost: $6-10, under 18 FREE
Where:
New Museum Los Gatos | NUMU
106 E. Main St.
Los Gatos, CA 95030
View map »
Telephone: 408-354-2646
Website »
This year’s event features snow flurries, a hands-on polar themed exhibit, a festive ice rink, live performances and a Snowman Theater.
Cost: Most activities included with admission: $35.95 adults, $30.95 youth ages 12-17,
Where:
California Academy of Sciences
Golden Gate Park
55 Music Concourse Drive
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-379-8000
Website »
Make friends as you explore the importance of images, sounds, and graphics while creating your own animated projects.
Cost: FREE
Where:
MACLA
500 S. First St.
San Jose, CA 95113
View map »
Ride a holiday train through Victorian Santa Cruz as you sip hot spiced cider, listen to carolers, meet Santa & Mrs. Claus. November 23, 2018 - December 23, 2018...
Cost: $33 ages 13 and up, $27 2-12, under 2 FREE
Where:
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
400 Beach St.
, CA
View map »
Get into the holiday spirit by taking a spin out on this rink. 9am-1pm weekdays. 9am-5pm weekends.
Cost: Included with admission: $14.95.
Where:
Bay Area Discovery Museum
557 McReynolds Road
Sausalito, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-339-3900
Website »
This production features a cast of dozens, gorgeous costumes and spooky ghosts.
Cost: $15-200
Where:
A.C.T.’s Geary Theater
415 Geary Street
San Francisco , CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-749- 2228
Website »
See Santa’s reindeer Belle, Holly and Peppermint and enjoy dazzling light displays. Then take a spin on the carousel set to holiday music.
Cost: Included with admission: $23 adults, $17 children 4-14, under 4 FREE
Where:
San Francisco Zoo
Sloat Boulevard and Great Highway
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-753-7080
Website »
Inspired in part of the adventurous spirit of street sports, this show combines acrobatics and music while exploring how technology often isolates people from one another than freeing them.
Cost: $54-45
Where:
AT&T Park
24 Willie Mays Plaza
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 877-924-7783
Website »
The holiday season is here, and Great Mall, one of the largest premiere shopping and entertainment destinations in Northern California, is hosting several festivities for the whole family to enjoy....
Cost: FREE
Where:
Great Mall
447 Great Mall Dr.
Milpitas, CA 95035
View map »
Contact Name: Great Mall
Website »
Enjoy a free family-friendly creative activity this holiday season at the Stanford Shopping Center and be a part of history! Stop by one of the "Voices of the Community" art...
Cost: FREE
Where:
Stanford Shopping Center
660 Stanford Shopping Center
Palo Alto , CA 94304
View map »
Sponsor: Stanford Medicine
Telephone: (650) 497-7277
Contact Name: Thea Moreno
Website »
The Artists, Poets, and Impresarios of the Late 1940’s in Sausalito When World War II ended in 1945, men and women who had fought to overcome tyranny abroad came home and sought to create lives...
Cost: Free
Where:
Bay Model Visitor Center
2100 Bridgeway
Sausalito, CA 94965
View map »
Sponsor: Bay Model Visitor Center
Telephone: 415-332-3871
Contact Name: Bay Model Visitor Center
Website »
CURIODYSSEY’S ILLUMINODYSSEY A WINTER LIGHT EXPERIENCE FOR KIDS November 2 - January 6 | 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. November 2, December 7, January 4, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Electrify your...
Cost: $9.50-$13.50
Where:
CuriOdyssey
1651 Coyote Point Drive
San Mateo, CA 94401
View map »
Sponsor: CuriOdyssey
Telephone: 650-342-7755
Contact Name: CuriOdyssey
Website »
The beloved Clover Sonoma mascot is going on tour for the holidays! Come see Santa Clo at your local grocery store to take pictures, enjoy free samples of Clover Sonoma eggnogs including...
Cost: Free
Where:
Draeger's Market
4100 Blackhawk Plaza Cir.
Danville, CA 94506
View map »
Sponsor: Clover Sonoma
Drop in with your child, ages 1-6, for open studio time with guided STEAM activities provided by the staff.
Cost: $14
Where:
Hands-On! invent. create. discover.
1411 Martin Luther King Jr Way
Berkeley, CA 94709
View map »
Telephone: 510-985-9222
Website »
It's Santa photo time! Reserve your FastPass and skip the line to see Santa by visiting: https://www.santasfastpass.com/scheduling/Yeps4KXZ:stoneridge-shopping-center
Cost: Free
Where:
1 Stoneridge Mall Rd
Pleasanton, CA 94588
View map »
Head over to Westgate Center for your photos with Santa. Check website for time and prices. Nov. 17-Dec. 24.
Cost: TBA
Where:
Westgate Center - Center Court by Ross
1600 Saratoga Ave.
San Jose, CA 95129
View map »
December 16, 2017 - January 13, 2019; Wed-Thur 11-5, Fri 11-9, Sat-Sun 10-6 This December, the Oakland Museum of California (OMCA) presents Take Root: Oakland Grows Food, a new family-friendly...
Cost: $15.95 adults, $6.95 ages 9-17, members and under 9 FREE
Where:
Oakland Museum of California
1000 Oak Street
Oakland, CA 94607
View map »
Sponsor: Oakland Museum of California
Telephone: 510-318-8400
Website »
WHAT: Bayfair Center invites children and their families to visit with Santa Claus to share their wish lists and all the magic of the holiday season from November 17th through December 24th....
Cost: 24.99 to $49.99
Where:
Bayfair Center
15555 East 14th Street
San Leandro, CA 94578
View map »
Visit Santa and have photos taken at the Jelly Belly Visitor Center as this candy palace becomes a winter wonderland. A professional photographer will be onsite, but feel free to bring your own...
Cost: Free
Where:
Jelly Belly Visitor Center
One Jelly Belly Lane
Fairfield, CA 94533
View map »
Sponsor: Jelly Belly Candy Company
Telephone: 1-800-953-5592
Website »
It's Santa photo time! Reserve your FastPass and skip the line to see Santa by visiting: https://www.santasfastpass.com/scheduling/Y_bsdDv3:stanford-shopping-center
Cost: Free
Where:
Stanford Shopping Center
660 Stanford Shopping Center
Palo Alto, CA 94304
View map »
The story of Juana Briones is a tale of resilience, ingenuity and business savvy – the hallmarks of Silicon Valley. Juana Briones was an early entrepreneur who owned several...
Cost: FREE
Where:
Los Altos History Museum
51 S San Antonio Road
Los Altos, CA 94022
View map »
Sponsor: Los Altos History Museum
Website »
The exhibit features a collection of iron toys, antique shaving mugs, children’s books and dolls, advertising boxes, and other items that would have been given as presents in days gone by.
Cost: FREE
Where:
Los Altos History Museum
51 S San Antonio Road
Los Altos, CA 94022
View map »
Sponsor: Los Altos History Museum
Website »
Celebrate the winter holidays of many cultures at Children's Fairyland: Christmas, Chanukah, Kwanzaa, Las Posadas, Diwali, and Chinese New Year. You'll enjoy stories, crafts, special...
Cost: $10 general, $5 Fairyland members
Where:
Children's Fairyland
699 Bellevue Ave.
Oakland, CA 94610
View map »
Sponsor: Children's Fairyland
Telephone: 510-238-6876
Website »
Boo! Hiss! Cheer! It is our fifth PantoSF year with "Sleeping Beauty the Panto" Its 2018 were are not sleeping! We are wide awake! Back by popular demand with a brand new panto...
Cost: $25 -50
Where:
Custom Made Theatre
533 Sutter St.
San Francisco, CA 94102
View map »
Sponsor: Panto SF
Contact Name: Patricia Miller
Website »
Smuin kicks off the holidays with the return of The Christmas Ballet, the beloved Bay Area tradition featuring two acts packed to the brim with both flawless classical ballet and red-hot...
Cost: $25-$91, Terrace & Orchestra
Where:
Yerba Buena Center for the Arts- YBCA Theater
700 Howard Street (at Third)
San Francisco, CA 94103
View map »
Sponsor: Smuin
Telephone: 415-912-1899
Contact Name: Yerba Buena Center for the Arts YBCA Theater
Website »
Boo! Hiss! Cheer!It is our fifth PantoSF year with "Sleeping Beauty the Panto"Its 2018 were are not sleeping! We are wide awake!.. Back by popular demand with a brand new panto following up from...
Cost: $25 - $50
Where:
Custom Made Theatre
533 Sutter St.
San Francisco, CA 94102
View map »
Sponsor: Panto SF
Contact Name: Patricia Miller
Website »
Santa Clara Ice at Central Park is proud of bring ice skating back to Central Park from November 19, 2019 - January 21, 2019! Santa Clara Ice is your winter home for fun. Monday-Thursday 2:00 PM...
Cost: $10 - $15 per person
Where:
Central Park
969 Kiely Boulevard
Santa Clara, CA 95051
View map »
Sponsor: Silicon Valley Power and City of Santa Clara Parks & Recreation
Telephone: 408-615-3140
Website »
Golden State Youth Orchestra Mid-Season Auditions Musicians ages 6-18 are invited to audition for Golden State Youth Orchestra! Palo Alto-based Golden State Youth Orchestra (GSYO) invites...
Cost: $25 audition fee
Where:
GSYO Office
4055 Fabian Way
Palo Alto, CA
View map »
Sponsor: Golden State Youth Orchestra
Telephone: 650-665-9046
Website »
Teens 14-18 are invited to play with or compete against others in the library Tech Lab everyday afterschool hours.
Cost: FREE
Where:
Mitchell Park Library
3700 Middlefield Road
Palo Alto, CA 94303
View map »
Join us after school for lemonade, cookies, and a craft. See full schedule at: https://www.craftifulstudio.com/workshops/?view=calendar&month=September-201
Cost: $10
Where:
Craftiful Make & Take Studio
1743 Park Avenue
San Jose, CA 95126
View map »
Sponsor: Craftiful Make & Take Studio
Telephone: 669-230-3807
Contact Name: Kirsten Rowe
Website »
Stressed on finals week? Mitchell Park Library has you covered. You can study in the library, or drop in for snacks and emotional support. There will be calming therapy dogs in the library you can...
Cost: FREE
Where:
Mitchell Park Library
3700 Middlefield Road
Palo Alto, CA 94303
View map »
A yoga classes designed specifically for kids every 1st and 3rd Friday of the month September -December! Along with yoga, each themed class is accompanied by other elements such as...
Cost: FREE
Where:
Morgan Hill Library
660 W Main Ave,
Morgan Hill, CA 95037
View map »
Apres, an elegant outdoor lounge, emulates a cozy mountainside retreat with apres-ski cuisine and drinks. There will be snow fall every hour between 4-11pm. There are fireside movies at...
Cost: FREE with purchase of food and beverage; reservations suggested
Where:
Four Seasons Hotel Silicon Valley
2050 University Ave.
East Palo Alto, CA
View map »
Telephone: 800-819-5053
Website »
Learn the basics to recording loops and making beats. This workshop will discuss creating and arming tracks, selecting patches, editing, and finally, releasing awesome DIY music. This program is...
Cost: FREE
Where:
South San Francisco Public Library
840 West Orange Avenue
South San Francisco, CA 94080
View map »
Sponsor: South San Francisco Public Library
Telephone: 650-829-3860
Contact Name: South San Francisco Public Library
Website »
Festive lights, Santa, ice skating and live shows in the tradition of the holiday season. Feast on turkey and all the trimmings and bundle up with family for a ride around the park on the train....
Cost: TBA
Where:
Gilroy Gardens
3050 Hecker Pass Hwy
Gilroy, CA 95020
View map »
There’s a good reason why this has become a holiday tradition for many families. The train is decked out with lights and decorations inside and out on an hour-long ride through...
Cost: $30 coach, $50 first-class dome, $600 private caboose
Where:
Niles Train Station
37001 Mission Blvd
Fremont, CA 94536
View map »
Telephone: 510-996-8420
Website »
The world premiere exhibition by internationally-acclaimed artist Bruce Munro, opens this Sunday, October 28, at Montalvo Arts Center, located on 175 acres in the Silicon Valley,...
Cost: $15-27
Where:
Montalvo Arts Center
15400 Montalvo Road
Saratoga, CA
View map »
Drive through a 1.5-mile-long annual holiday lights display in Vasona Lake County Park to see electric dinosaurs and penguins, Santa shooting hoops and so much more. Dec. 4-30, closed Dec. 25. All...
Cost: $20/car
Where:
Vasona Lake County Park
333 Blossom Hill Road
Los Gatos, CA
View map »
December 14-23, Fridays & Saturdays 7:30pm, Saturdays & Sundays 2pm Based on one of the most popular Disney movies of all time, Disney and Cameron Mackintosh's youth musical...
Cost: $7-$18; youth, senior discounts.
Where:
Amador Theater
1155 Santa Rita Road
Pleasanton, CA 94566
View map »
Sponsor: City of Pleasanton Firehouse Arts Center
Telephone: 925-931-4848
Website »
An enchanting bestseller springs to life as TheatreWorks Silicon Valley brings the regional premiere of Tuck Everlasting to Palo Alto. In this 1890s tale, free-spirited Winner Foster’s search for...
Cost: $40-$100
Where:
Lucie Stern Community Center
1305 Middlefield Rd
Palo Alto, CA 94301
View map »
Sponsor: TheatreWorks Silicon Valley
Telephone: 650-463-1960
Contact Name: TheatreWorks Silicon Valley
Website »
SJZ High School All Stars, conducted by Dr. Aaron Lington, perform as part of the Season of Hope series at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph in downtown San Jose. High School All...
Cost: FREE
Where:
Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph
80 S. Market St.
San Jose, CA
View map »
Make friends as you explore the importance of images, sounds, and graphics while creating your own animated projects.
Cost: FREE
Where:
MACLA
500 S. First St.
San Jose, CA 95113
View map »
A three-dimensional yearbook-style exhibition explores what it has meant to be a LGHS Wildcat over the course of the school's 100 years+ history. Visitors don’t have to be a graduate or...
Cost: $6-10, under 18 FREE
Where:
New Museum Los Gatos | NUMU
106 E. Main St.
Los Gatos, CA 95030
View map »
Telephone: 408-354-2646
Website »
This long-running musical parody features iconic holiday characters like Christmas King. Louis, Mr. Peanut Santa and a chorus of tap-dancing Christmas trees. Expect spoofs of pop culture and...
Cost: $30-155
Where:
Club Fugazi
678 Beach Blanket Blvd.
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-421-4222
Website »
MACLA's most visible and popular exhibition takes inventory of the critical edge and aesthetic interventions within contemporary Chicano art. A cross-generational survey of art by...
Cost: FREE
Where:
MACLA
500 S. First St.
San Jose, CA 95113
View map »
The magical world of storytelling mechanical sculptures known as automata returns to the Exploratorium for the third year in a row. Watch these miniature dramas unfold while observing the low-tech...
Cost: $29.95 adults, $19.95 ages 4-12, under 4 FREE
Where:
Pier 15
Embarcadero at Green Street
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-528-4444
Website »
Combine and design with nature’s loose parts in Bill’s Backyard to take part in an ever-changing collaborative art project. Meet the artist, Zach Pine, on Nov. 24, Dec. 14, Dec. 29-30...
Cost: adults: $15; children: $15; seniors: $14; infants and members are free.
Where:
Children’s Discovery Museum of San Jose
180 Woz Way
San Jose, CA 95110
View map »
Bay Area artists Monica Canilao and Xara Thustra collaborate for their first large-scale exhibition that explores feminist and anti-capitalist themes and challenges viewers to step back and...
Cost: Admission $8-10, children under 5 FREE
Where:
Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History
705 Front St.
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
View map »
Telephone: 831-429-1964
Website »
This production features a cast of dozens, gorgeous costumes and spooky ghosts.
Cost: $15-200
Where:
A.C.T.’s Geary Theater
415 Geary Street
San Francisco , CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-749- 2228
Website »
Inspired in part of the adventurous spirit of street sports, this show combines acrobatics and music while exploring how technology often isolates people from one another than freeing them.
Cost: $54-45
Where:
AT&T Park
24 Willie Mays Plaza
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 877-924-7783
Website »
Shen Yun is dedicated to reviving 5,000 years of divinely inspired civilization by bringing its profound spirit to life on stage with unrivaled artistic mastery. Shen Yun combines...
Cost: $80 and up
Where:
Center for the Performing Arts
255 Almaden Blvd.
San Jose, CA
View map »
The San Jose Nutcracker takes place in San Jose at the turn of the last century. Presented in partnership with History San Jose, and featuring the voices of Ragazzi Premiere singers, it tells the...
Cost: $19 and up
Where:
SJSU Hammer Theatre Center
101 Paseo De San Antonio
San Jose, CA
View map »
This show is set to holiday tunes and features an array of dance styles including classical ballet, tap, jazz and swing. A highlight is Santa Baby featuring a 42-foot-long feather boa.
Cost: $25-89
Where:
Yerba Buena Center for the Arts
700 Howard St.
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-912-1899
Website »
This 50-minute performance features danced storytelling with live music.
Cost: Call for prices
Where:
Cowell Theater
Fort Mason Center
Marina Boulevard and Buchanan Street
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-345-7575
Website »
The pop culture phenomenon School House Rock comes to the stage! Featuring the classic songs of the Emmy-Award winning series, including Just a Bill, Conjunction Junction,...
Cost: $12-14
Where:
Palo Alto Children's Theatre
1305 Middlefield Road
Palo Alto, CA
View map »
Bring a can of food and bowl a game for free. All donations go to Second Harvest Food Bank of Santa Cruz County to fee local families. Does not include shoe rental.
Cost: FREE,.
Where:
Santa Cruz Boardwalk
400 Beach St.
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
View map »
See Santa’s reindeer Belle, Holly and Peppermint and enjoy dazzling light displays. Then take a spin on the carousel set to holiday music.
Cost: Included with admission: $23 adults, $17 children 4-14, under 4 FREE
Where:
San Francisco Zoo
Sloat Boulevard and Great Highway
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-753-7080
Website »
Ride a holiday train through Victorian Santa Cruz as you sip hot spiced cider, listen to carolers, meet Santa & Mrs. Claus. November 23, 2018 - December 23, 2018...
Cost: $33 ages 13 and up, $27 2-12, under 2 FREE
Where:
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
400 Beach St.
, CA
View map »
Take a holiday adventure into Victorian London and marvel at 800 costumed characters in music halls, pubs, theaters, dance parties and more. Dozens of lamp-lit shots will be stocked with Christmas...
Cost: $30 adults, $14 ages 5-12, under 5 FREE
Where:
Cow Palace Exhibition Halls
2600 Geneva Ave.
Daly City, CA
View map »
Telephone: 800-510-1558
Website »
This family show features colorful giant puppets and is inspired by Eric Carle’s stories Dream Snow, Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See and A Very Hungry Caterpillar. Recommended for...
Cost: $28 adults, $24 children
Where:
Children's Creativity Museum
221 4th St.
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 510-296-4433
Website »
Great America celebrates all things winter with this month-long celebration. Ice skate in front of the iconic carousel, enjoy magnificent light displays, take a walk through Santa’s workshop...
Cost: $26 and up
Where:
Great America
4701 Great America Parkway
Santa Clara, CA
View map »
Visit the Dunsmuir Hellman Historic Estate, decked out in Edwardian holiday splendor, for mansion tours, a high tea on Sun., Dec. 9, brunch with Santa on Sun. Dec. 16, family photo sessions, a...
Cost: $12-22 general, high tea $15-55, Santa brunch $15-35
Where:
Dunsmuir Hellman Historic Estate
2960 Peralta Oaks Court
Oakland , CA 94605
View map »
Telephone: 510-615-5555
Website »
Don’t miss NBA All-Star Baron Davis’ pop-up winter wonderland featuring Black Santa merchandise, holiday sweets, festive workshops and visits with Black Santa and Mrs. C. Store...
Cost: Costs vary
Where:
Jack London Square
54 Washington St.
Oakland, CA 94607
View map »
Telephone: 510-645-9292
Website »
Walk through this two-story gingerbread house to a tea with holiday entertainment. Check website for times.
Cost: $119, $89 under 12
Where:
Laurel Court Restaurant
Fairmont Hotel
950 Mason St.
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 877-979-9608
Website »
Taste the special Filoli holiday blend and enjoy finger sandwiches, scones and holiday treats. Check websites for days and times.
Cost: $75
Where:
Filoli
86 Cañada Road
Woodside, CA
View map »
Telephone: 650-364-8300
Website »
In this annual tradition, children dine on hot chocolate and teddy bear cookies and sandwiches while being entertained by an elf and a giant teddy bear. Each child receives a teddy bear gift and...
Cost: $130
Where:
Ritz-Carlton Hotel
600 Stockton St.
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-296-7465
Website »
When a storm hits her farm, Dorothy and her dog are swept over the rainbow to a magical land. Nov. 9-Dec. 23 1pm, 2pm and 7pm
Cost: $20-40
Where:
The Julia Morgan Theater
2640 College Ave.
Berkeley, CA 94704
View map »
Telephone: 510-845-8542, ext. 351
Website »
The first Nutcracker in the United States premiered in San Francisco in 1944. This favorite holiday production features snowflakes, dancing flowers and a little girl who dreams about a whole new...
Cost: $39-420
Where:
War Memorial Opera House
301 Van Ness Ave.
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-865-2000
Website »
This Bay Area circus celebrates diversity and color and features aerialists, acrobats, jugglers, high wire artists, family foot jugglers, clowns and more. Shows are Thu-Sun. Check website for times.
Cost: $39-150
Where:
Near Mersea Restaurant
699 Avenue of the Palms
Treasure Island
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-480-4239
Website »
Tea sandwiches, scones and a kid-friendly buffet and dessert buffet are on the menu for this annual tea. There will be balloons, face painting, a nutcracker and cookie decorating, plus visits...
Cost: $80, $75 with unwrapped toy donation
Where:
Intercontinental Mark Hopkins
999 California St.
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-616-6941
Website »
Get into the holiday spirit by taking a spin out on this rink. 9am-1pm weekdays. 9am-5pm weekends.
Cost: Included with admission: $14.95.
Where:
Bay Area Discovery Museum
557 McReynolds Road
Sausalito, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-339-3900
Website »
This year’s event features snow flurries, a hands-on polar themed exhibit, a festive ice rink, live performances and a Snowman Theater.
Cost: Most activities included with admission: $35.95 adults, $30.95 youth ages 12-17,
Where:
California Academy of Sciences
Golden Gate Park
55 Music Concourse Drive
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-379-8000
Website »
The Artists, Poets, and Impresarios of the Late 1940’s in Sausalito When World War II ended in 1945, men and women who had fought to overcome tyranny abroad came home and sought to create lives...
Cost: Free
Where:
Bay Model Visitor Center
2100 Bridgeway
Sausalito, CA 94965
View map »
Sponsor: Bay Model Visitor Center
Telephone: 415-332-3871
Contact Name: Bay Model Visitor Center
Website »
The holiday season is here, and Great Mall, one of the largest premiere shopping and entertainment destinations in Northern California, is hosting several festivities for the whole family to enjoy....
Cost: FREE
Where:
Great Mall
447 Great Mall Dr.
Milpitas, CA 95035
View map »
Contact Name: Great Mall
Website »
Enjoy a free family-friendly creative activity this holiday season at the Stanford Shopping Center and be a part of history! Stop by one of the "Voices of the Community" art...
Cost: FREE
Where:
Stanford Shopping Center
660 Stanford Shopping Center
Palo Alto , CA 94304
View map »
Sponsor: Stanford Medicine
Telephone: (650) 497-7277
Contact Name: Thea Moreno
Website »
The beloved Clover Sonoma mascot is going on tour for the holidays! Come see Santa Clo at your local grocery store to take pictures, enjoy free samples of Clover Sonoma eggnogs including...
Cost: Free
Where:
Lunardi's Market
2801 San Bruno Ave.
San Bruno , CA 94066
View map »
Sponsor: Clover Sonoma
CURIODYSSEY’S ILLUMINODYSSEY A WINTER LIGHT EXPERIENCE FOR KIDS November 2 - January 6 | 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. November 2, December 7, January 4, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Electrify your...
Cost: $9.50-$13.50
Where:
CuriOdyssey
1651 Coyote Point Drive
San Mateo, CA 94401
View map »
Sponsor: CuriOdyssey
Telephone: 650-342-7755
Contact Name: CuriOdyssey
Website »
The Experts in Mystery Entertainment are now performing live, public and private interactive murder mystery dinner shows in Redwood City and surrounding areas throughout California. Join us for a...
Cost: $60
Where:
The Old Spaghetti Factory
2107 Broadway
Redwood City, CA 94063
View map »
Sponsor: The Murder Mystery Company in San Francisco
Telephone: 888-643-22583
Contact Name: Skyler
Website »
It's Santa photo time! Reserve your FastPass and skip the line to see Santa by visiting: https://www.santasfastpass.com/scheduling/Y_bsdDv3:stanford-shopping-center
Cost: Free
Where:
Stanford Shopping Center
660 Stanford Shopping Center
Palo Alto, CA 94304
View map »
December 16, 2017 - January 13, 2019; Wed-Thur 11-5, Fri 11-9, Sat-Sun 10-6 This December, the Oakland Museum of California (OMCA) presents Take Root: Oakland Grows Food, a new family-friendly...
Cost: $15.95 adults, $6.95 ages 9-17, members and under 9 FREE
Where:
Oakland Museum of California
1000 Oak Street
Oakland, CA 94607
View map »
Sponsor: Oakland Museum of California
Telephone: 510-318-8400
Website »
Head over to Westgate Center for your photos with Santa. Check website for time and prices. Nov. 17-Dec. 24.
Cost: TBA
Where:
Westgate Center - Center Court by Ross
1600 Saratoga Ave.
San Jose, CA 95129
View map »
It's Santa photo time! Reserve your FastPass and skip the line to see Santa by visiting: https://www.santasfastpass.com/scheduling/Yeps4KXZ:stoneridge-shopping-center
Cost: Free
Where:
1 Stoneridge Mall Rd
Pleasanton, CA 94588
View map »
Visit Santa and have photos taken at the Jelly Belly Visitor Center as this candy palace becomes a winter wonderland. A professional photographer will be onsite, but feel free to bring your own...
Cost: Free
Where:
Jelly Belly Visitor Center
One Jelly Belly Lane
Fairfield, CA 94533
View map »
Sponsor: Jelly Belly Candy Company
Telephone: 1-800-953-5592
Website »
WHAT: Bayfair Center invites children and their families to visit with Santa Claus to share their wish lists and all the magic of the holiday season from November 17th through December 24th....
Cost: 24.99 to $49.99
Where:
Bayfair Center
15555 East 14th Street
San Leandro, CA 94578
View map »
Celebrate the winter holidays of many cultures at Children's Fairyland: Christmas, Chanukah, Kwanzaa, Las Posadas, Diwali, and Chinese New Year. You'll enjoy stories, crafts, special...
Cost: $10 general, $5 Fairyland members
Where:
Children's Fairyland
699 Bellevue Ave.
Oakland, CA 94610
View map »
Sponsor: Children's Fairyland
Telephone: 510-238-6876
Website »
The exhibit features a collection of iron toys, antique shaving mugs, children’s books and dolls, advertising boxes, and other items that would have been given as presents in days gone by.
Cost: FREE
Where:
Los Altos History Museum
51 S San Antonio Road
Los Altos, CA 94022
View map »
Sponsor: Los Altos History Museum
Website »
The story of Juana Briones is a tale of resilience, ingenuity and business savvy – the hallmarks of Silicon Valley. Juana Briones was an early entrepreneur who owned several...
Cost: FREE
Where:
Los Altos History Museum
51 S San Antonio Road
Los Altos, CA 94022
View map »
Sponsor: Los Altos History Museum
Website »
About Sis Boom Bah!New Museum Los Gatos (NUMU) is thrilled to announce the September 2018 opening of an expansive exhibition that takes a deep dive into the long history of the town’s high...
Cost: Kids under 18 are Free. Adult $10/ Seniors, Educators, Military $6
Where:
New Museum Los Gatos
106 E. Main St.
Los Gatos, CA 95030
View map »
Sponsor: New Museum Los Gatos | NUMU
Telephone: 408-354-2646
Contact Name: New Museum Los Gatos
Website »
Facilitated by Katie Bilsky, Sophie Bigalke, Kelly Zane and Russell Stephens -Join us in the Playroom on Thursdays for music, movement, and stories! Playtime Together is the perfect bonding...
Cost: FREE!
Where:
Safe & Sound
1757 Waller Street
San Francisco, CA 94117
View map »
Telephone: 415-387-3684
Contact Name: Russell Stephens
Website »
Boo! Hiss! Cheer! It is our fifth PantoSF year with "Sleeping Beauty the Panto" Its 2018 were are not sleeping! We are wide awake! Back by popular demand with a brand new panto...
Cost: $25 -50
Where:
Custom Made Theatre
533 Sutter St.
San Francisco, CA 94102
View map »
Sponsor: Panto SF
Contact Name: Patricia Miller
Website »
Santa Clara Ice at Central Park is proud of bring ice skating back to Central Park from November 19, 2019 - January 21, 2019! Santa Clara Ice is your winter home for fun. Monday-Thursday 2:00 PM...
Cost: $10 - $15 per person
Where:
Central Park
969 Kiely Boulevard
Santa Clara, CA 95051
View map »
Sponsor: Silicon Valley Power and City of Santa Clara Parks & Recreation
Telephone: 408-615-3140
Website »
Boo! Hiss! Cheer!It is our fifth PantoSF year with "Sleeping Beauty the Panto"Its 2018 were are not sleeping! We are wide awake!.. Back by popular demand with a brand new panto following up from...
Cost: $25 - $50
Where:
Custom Made Theatre
533 Sutter St.
San Francisco, CA 94102
View map »
Sponsor: Panto SF
Contact Name: Patricia Miller
Website »
Golden State Youth Orchestra Mid-Season Auditions Musicians ages 6-18 are invited to audition for Golden State Youth Orchestra! Palo Alto-based Golden State Youth Orchestra (GSYO) invites...
Cost: $25 audition fee
Where:
GSYO Office
4055 Fabian Way
Palo Alto, CA
View map »
Sponsor: Golden State Youth Orchestra
Telephone: 650-665-9046
Website »
Teens 14-18 are invited to play with or compete against others in the library Tech Lab everyday afterschool hours.
Cost: FREE
Where:
Mitchell Park Library
3700 Middlefield Road
Palo Alto, CA 94303
View map »
Be creative at the library! Make cute penguins out of cotton balls. Perfect to hang up on your Christmas tree, to give to someone as a gift, or to just make for fun!
Cost: FREE
Where:
South San Francisco Grand Library
306 Walnut Avenue
South San Francisco, CA 94080
View map »
Sponsor: South San Francisco Grand Library
Telephone: 650-877-8530
Contact Name: South San Francisco Grand Library
Website »
The beloved Clover Sonoma mascot is going on tour for the holidays! Come see Santa Clo at your local grocery store to take pictures, enjoy free samples of Clover Sonoma eggnogs including Maple...
Cost: Free
Where:
Lunardi's Market
3503, 720 Blossom Hill Rd.
Los Gatos, CA 95032
View map »
Sponsor: Clover Sonoma
Apres, an elegant outdoor lounge, emulates a cozy mountainside retreat with apres-ski cuisine and drinks. There will be snow fall every hour between 4-11pm. There are fireside movies at...
Cost: FREE with purchase of food and beverage; reservations suggested
Where:
Four Seasons Hotel Silicon Valley
2050 University Ave.
East Palo Alto, CA
View map »
Telephone: 800-819-5053
Website »
Join our Garden Club on Thursdays, 4pm-5pm October to December Together, we'll build and maintain California native habitat gardens tiny pollinators, local lizards, curious turtles, and...
Cost: $5
Where:
Guadalupe River Park Visitor Center
438 Coleman Avenue
San Jose, CA 95110
View map »
Telephone: 408-298-7657
Contact Name: Michelle Domocol
Website »
Festive lights, Santa, ice skating and live shows in the tradition of the holiday season. Feast on turkey and all the trimmings and bundle up with family for a ride around the park on the train....
Cost: TBA
Where:
Gilroy Gardens
3050 Hecker Pass Hwy
Gilroy, CA 95020
View map »
A yoga classes designed specifically for kids every 1st and 3rd Friday of the month September -December! Along with yoga, each themed class is accompanied by other elements such as...
Cost: FREE
Where:
Morgan Hill Library
660 W Main Ave,
Morgan Hill, CA 95037
View map »
Join us every Thursday to explore a different science craft. Light refreshments will be served. See full schedule at: https://www.craftifulstudio.com/workshops/?view=calendar&month=September-201
Cost: $10
Where:
Craftiful Make & Take Studio
1743 Park Avenue
San Jose, CA 95126
View map »
Sponsor: Craftiful Make & Take Studio
Telephone: 669-230-3807
Contact Name: Kirsten Rowe
Website »
Described as a “nighttime spectacular of light and color,” the celebration of Chinese culture features hundreds of huge, handcrafted lanterns in a variety of themed displays that...
Cost: $18-23
Where:
Alameda County Fairgrounds
Gate 8 or Gate 12
Corner of Bernal and Valley Ave.
Pleasanton, CA 94566
View map »
Telephone: 651-504-2000
Website »
Enjoy sounds of the season from local youth performers while you stroll through the galleries or do some last-minute shopping in the Museum Store.
Cost: $5
Where:
San Jose Museum of Art
110 S. Market St.
San Jose, CA
View map »
Hundreds of thousands of LED lights will brighten Oakland's night sky along with a candy cane lane themed rides area, Christmas tree fun and a light show. *Closed Dec. 24-25.
Cost: $10 adults, $9 ages 2-14, under 2 FREE (not included with regular zoo admission)
Where:
Oakland Zoo
9777 Golf Links Road
Oakland, CA 94605
View map »
Telephone: 510-632-9525
Website »
Ever been interested in being on TV, making your own TV, or Filmmaking? Come check out your local public access station! Our studio is full HD and ready to create community programming. Content...
Cost: FREE
Where:
Midpen Media Center
900 San Antonio Rd.
Palo Alto, CA 94303
View map »
Sponsor: Midpen Media Center
Telephone: 650 494-8686
Contact Name: Sara Bennett
Website »
Come pick up a free copy of The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane (while supplies last) or feel free to checkout the book from any peninsula library. Read the book, and then we will meet for...
Cost: FREE
Where:
South San Francisco Public Library
840 West Orange Avenue
South San Francisco, CA 94080
View map »
Sponsor: South San Francisco Public Library
Telephone: 650-829-3860
Contact Name: South San Francisco Public Library
Website »
Drive through a 1.5-mile-long annual holiday lights display in Vasona Lake County Park to see electric dinosaurs and penguins, Santa shooting hoops and so much more. Dec. 4-30, closed Dec. 25. All...
Cost: $20/car
Where:
Vasona Lake County Park
333 Blossom Hill Road
Los Gatos, CA
View map »
The world premiere exhibition by internationally-acclaimed artist Bruce Munro, opens this Sunday, October 28, at Montalvo Arts Center, located on 175 acres in the Silicon Valley,...
Cost: $15-27
Where:
Montalvo Arts Center
15400 Montalvo Road
Saratoga, CA
View map »
Drop in to this Thu. evening free-form sculpting event to work with low-fire clay and glazes.
Cost: $10
Where:
ArtVale Gallery
3463 Champion St.
Oakland, CA 94602
View map »
Playful People Productions Presents: The Marshmallow Incident The Marshmallow Incident occurred a very long time ago… in the towns of Left and Right. The towns were...
Cost: $15 attendees 12 and up, $10 children 11 and under, and $8 Children’s floor sea
Where:
Historic Hoover Theatre
1635 Park Ave
San Jose, CA 95126
View map »
Sponsor: Playful People Productions
Telephone: 408-507-4572
Contact Name: Paige Keller
Website »
Take a journey through Christmas in Ireland with superb dancing, singing and Irish traditional music, celebrating the international spirit of the holiday season. Appropriate for all ages.
Cost: $25-60
Where:
Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts
500 Castro St.
, AL
View map »
Thursday, December 20 - 7:00pm, Friday, December 21 - 2:00pm and 7:00pm, Saturday, December 22 - 11:00am and 3:00pm Playful People Productions Presents: The Marshmallow Incident The Marshmallow...
Cost: $15 12+, $10 11 & under, $8 Children's floor seating; Door $18/12/8
Where:
Historic Hoover Theatre
1635 Park Ave
San Jose, CA 95126
View map »
Sponsor: Playful People Productions
Telephone: 408-878-5362
Contact Name: Paige Keller
Website »
Star of Animal Planet's "My Cat From Hell" Jackson Galaxy Heads to San Francisco on December 20 LITTER GENIE PRESENTS A PERSONAL AND IN DEPTH EVENING WITH THE...
Cost: $35-75
Where:
Great American Music Hall
859 O'Farrell St
San Francisco, CA 94109
View map »
Smuin kicks off the holidays with the return of The Christmas Ballet, the beloved Bay Area tradition featuring two acts packed to the brim with both flawless classical ballet and red-hot...
Cost: $25-$91, Terrace & Orchestra
Where:
Yerba Buena Center for the Arts- YBCA Theater
700 Howard Street (at Third)
San Francisco, CA 94103
View map »
Sponsor: Smuin
Telephone: 415-912-1899
Contact Name: Smuin
Website »
December 14-23, Fridays & Saturdays 7:30pm, Saturdays & Sundays 2pm Based on one of the most popular Disney movies of all time, Disney and Cameron Mackintosh's youth musical...
Cost: $7-$18; youth, senior discounts.
Where:
Amador Theater
1155 Santa Rita Road
Pleasanton, CA 94566
View map »
Sponsor: City of Pleasanton Firehouse Arts Center
Telephone: 925-931-4848
Website »
Get ready for a full-force, non-stop show of thrilling feats at Circus Bella’s winter spectacular, KALEIDOSCOPE. Circus Bella has been performing free circus in the parks all over the Bay...
Cost: $39, $55, $150
Where:
Mersea Meadow
699 Ave of the Palms
Treasure Island
San Francisco, CA 94130
View map »
Sponsor: Circus Bella
Telephone: 415-480-4239
Contact Name: Suzanne Santos
Website »
An enchanting bestseller springs to life as TheatreWorks Silicon Valley brings the regional premiere of Tuck Everlasting to Palo Alto. In this 1890s tale, free-spirited Winner Foster’s search for...
Cost: $40-$100
Where:
Lucie Stern Community Center
1305 Middlefield Rd
Palo Alto, CA 94301
View map »
Sponsor: TheatreWorks Silicon Valley
Telephone: 650-463-1960
Contact Name: TheatreWorks Silicon Valley
Website »
Inspired in part of the adventurous spirit of street sports, this show combines acrobatics and music while exploring how technology often isolates people from one another than freeing them.
Cost: $54-45
Where:
AT&T Park
24 Willie Mays Plaza
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 877-924-7783
Website »
t’s a concert. It’s a Circus. It’s an inspiration. Weaving the wisdom of beloved Persian poet Hafiz into their rich tapestry of unique harmonies, award-winning...
Cost: $22-75
Where:
Dance Mission Theater
3316 24th St.
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: (800) 838-3006
Website »
This year’s event features snow flurries, a hands-on polar themed exhibit, a festive ice rink, live performances and a Snowman Theater.
Cost: Most activities included with admission: $35.95 adults, $30.95 youth ages 12-17,
Where:
California Academy of Sciences
Golden Gate Park
55 Music Concourse Drive
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-379-8000
Website »
Tea sandwiches, scones and a kid-friendly buffet and dessert buffet are on the menu for this annual tea. There will be balloons, face painting, a nutcracker and cookie decorating, plus visits...
Cost: $80, $75 with unwrapped toy donation
Where:
Intercontinental Mark Hopkins
999 California St.
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-616-6941
Website »
Shen Yun is dedicated to reviving 5,000 years of divinely inspired civilization by bringing its profound spirit to life on stage with unrivaled artistic mastery. Shen Yun combines...
Cost: $80 and up
Where:
Center for the Performing Arts
255 Almaden Blvd.
San Jose, CA
View map »
The magical world of storytelling mechanical sculptures known as automata returns to the Exploratorium for the third year in a row. Watch these miniature dramas unfold while observing the low-tech...
Cost: $29.95 adults, $19.95 ages 4-12, under 4 FREE
Where:
Pier 15
Embarcadero at Green Street
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-528-4444
Website »
Get ready for a full-force, non-stop show of thrilling feats at Circus Bella’s winter spectacular, KALEIDOSCOPE. Circus Bella has been performing free circus in the parks all over the Bay...
Cost: $39, $55, $150
Where:
Mersea Meadow
699 Avenue of the Palms
San Francisco, CA 94130
View map »
Sponsor: Circus Bella
Telephone: 224-267-5363
Contact Name: Orlene Gentile
Website »
Combine and design with nature’s loose parts in Bill’s Backyard to take part in an ever-changing collaborative art project. Meet the artist, Zach Pine, on Nov. 24, Dec. 14, Dec. 29-30...
Cost: adults: $15; children: $15; seniors: $14; infants and members are free.
Where:
Children’s Discovery Museum of San Jose
180 Woz Way
San Jose, CA 95110
View map »
The San Jose Nutcracker takes place in San Jose at the turn of the last century. Presented in partnership with History San Jose, and featuring the voices of Ragazzi Premiere singers, it tells the...
Cost: $19 and up
Where:
SJSU Hammer Theatre Center
101 Paseo De San Antonio
San Jose, CA
View map »
This 50-minute performance features danced storytelling with live music.
Cost: Call for prices
Where:
Cowell Theater
Fort Mason Center
Marina Boulevard and Buchanan Street
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-345-7575
Website »
This family show features colorful giant puppets and is inspired by Eric Carle’s stories Dream Snow, Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See and A Very Hungry Caterpillar. Recommended for...
Cost: $28 adults, $24 children
Where:
Children's Creativity Museum
221 4th St.
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 510-296-4433
Website »
MACLA's most visible and popular exhibition takes inventory of the critical edge and aesthetic interventions within contemporary Chicano art. A cross-generational survey of art by...
Cost: FREE
Where:
MACLA
500 S. First St.
San Jose, CA 95113
View map »
This show is set to holiday tunes and features an array of dance styles including classical ballet, tap, jazz and swing. A highlight is Santa Baby featuring a 42-foot-long feather boa.
Cost: $25-89
Where:
Yerba Buena Center for the Arts
700 Howard St.
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-912-1899
Website »
A three-dimensional yearbook-style exhibition explores what it has meant to be a LGHS Wildcat over the course of the school's 100 years+ history. Visitors don’t have to be a graduate or...
Cost: $6-10, under 18 FREE
Where:
New Museum Los Gatos | NUMU
106 E. Main St.
Los Gatos, CA 95030
View map »
Telephone: 408-354-2646
Website »
Great America celebrates all things winter with this month-long celebration. Ice skate in front of the iconic carousel, enjoy magnificent light displays, take a walk through Santa’s workshop...
Cost: $26 and up
Where:
Great America
4701 Great America Parkway
Santa Clara, CA
View map »
Walk through this two-story gingerbread house to a tea with holiday entertainment. Check website for times.
Cost: $119, $89 under 12
Where:
Laurel Court Restaurant
Fairmont Hotel
950 Mason St.
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 877-979-9608
Website »
Get into the holiday spirit by taking a spin out on this rink. 9am-1pm weekdays. 9am-5pm weekends.
Cost: Included with admission: $14.95.
Where:
Bay Area Discovery Museum
557 McReynolds Road
Sausalito, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-339-3900
Website »
This Bay Area circus celebrates diversity and color and features aerialists, acrobats, jugglers, high wire artists, family foot jugglers, clowns and more. Shows are Thu-Sun. Check website for times.
Cost: $39-150
Where:
Near Mersea Restaurant
699 Avenue of the Palms
Treasure Island
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-480-4239
Website »
Taste the special Filoli holiday blend and enjoy finger sandwiches, scones and holiday treats. Check websites for days and times.
Cost: $75
Where:
Filoli
86 Cañada Road
Woodside, CA
View map »
Telephone: 650-364-8300
Website »
In this annual tradition, children dine on hot chocolate and teddy bear cookies and sandwiches while being entertained by an elf and a giant teddy bear. Each child receives a teddy bear gift and...
Cost: $130
Where:
Ritz-Carlton Hotel
600 Stockton St.
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-296-7465
Website »
This long-running musical parody features iconic holiday characters like Christmas King. Louis, Mr. Peanut Santa and a chorus of tap-dancing Christmas trees. Expect spoofs of pop culture and...
Cost: $30-155
Where:
Club Fugazi
678 Beach Blanket Blvd.
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-421-4222
Website »
Visit the Dunsmuir Hellman Historic Estate, decked out in Edwardian holiday splendor, for mansion tours, a high tea on Sun., Dec. 9, brunch with Santa on Sun. Dec. 16, family photo sessions, a...
Cost: $12-22 general, high tea $15-55, Santa brunch $15-35
Where:
Dunsmuir Hellman Historic Estate
2960 Peralta Oaks Court
Oakland , CA 94605
View map »
Telephone: 510-615-5555
Website »
See Santa’s reindeer Belle, Holly and Peppermint and enjoy dazzling light displays. Then take a spin on the carousel set to holiday music.
Cost: Included with admission: $23 adults, $17 children 4-14, under 4 FREE
Where:
San Francisco Zoo
Sloat Boulevard and Great Highway
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-753-7080
Website »
Bay Area artists Monica Canilao and Xara Thustra collaborate for their first large-scale exhibition that explores feminist and anti-capitalist themes and challenges viewers to step back and...
Cost: Admission $8-10, children under 5 FREE
Where:
Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History
705 Front St.
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
View map »
Telephone: 831-429-1964
Website »
Make friends as you explore the importance of images, sounds, and graphics while creating your own animated projects.
Cost: FREE
Where:
MACLA
500 S. First St.
San Jose, CA 95113
View map »
This production features a cast of dozens, gorgeous costumes and spooky ghosts.
Cost: $15-200
Where:
A.C.T.’s Geary Theater
415 Geary Street
San Francisco , CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-749- 2228
Website »
When a storm hits her farm, Dorothy and her dog are swept over the rainbow to a magical land. Nov. 9-Dec. 23 1pm, 2pm and 7pm
Cost: $20-40
Where:
The Julia Morgan Theater
2640 College Ave.
Berkeley, CA 94704
View map »
Telephone: 510-845-8542, ext. 351
Website »
The first Nutcracker in the United States premiered in San Francisco in 1944. This favorite holiday production features snowflakes, dancing flowers and a little girl who dreams about a whole new...
Cost: $39-420
Where:
War Memorial Opera House
301 Van Ness Ave.
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-865-2000
Website »
Don’t miss NBA All-Star Baron Davis’ pop-up winter wonderland featuring Black Santa merchandise, holiday sweets, festive workshops and visits with Black Santa and Mrs. C. Store...
Cost: Costs vary
Where:
Jack London Square
54 Washington St.
Oakland, CA 94607
View map »
Telephone: 510-645-9292
Website »
Bring a can of food and bowl a game for free. All donations go to Second Harvest Food Bank of Santa Cruz County to fee local families. Does not include shoe rental.
Cost: FREE,.
Where:
Santa Cruz Boardwalk
400 Beach St.
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
View map »
Take a holiday adventure into Victorian London and marvel at 800 costumed characters in music halls, pubs, theaters, dance parties and more. Dozens of lamp-lit shots will be stocked with Christmas...
Cost: $30 adults, $14 ages 5-12, under 5 FREE
Where:
Cow Palace Exhibition Halls
2600 Geneva Ave.
Daly City, CA
View map »
Telephone: 800-510-1558
Website »
Ride a holiday train through Victorian Santa Cruz as you sip hot spiced cider, listen to carolers, meet Santa & Mrs. Claus. November 23, 2018 - December 23, 2018...
Cost: $33 ages 13 and up, $27 2-12, under 2 FREE
Where:
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
400 Beach St.
, CA
View map »
The pop culture phenomenon School House Rock comes to the stage! Featuring the classic songs of the Emmy-Award winning series, including Just a Bill, Conjunction Junction,...
Cost: $12-14
Where:
Palo Alto Children's Theatre
1305 Middlefield Road
Palo Alto, CA
View map »
The holiday season is here, and Great Mall, one of the largest premiere shopping and entertainment destinations in Northern California, is hosting several festivities for the whole family to enjoy....
Cost: FREE
Where:
Great Mall
447 Great Mall Dr.
Milpitas, CA 95035
View map »
Contact Name: Great Mall
Website »
The Artists, Poets, and Impresarios of the Late 1940’s in Sausalito When World War II ended in 1945, men and women who had fought to overcome tyranny abroad came home and sought to create lives...
Cost: Free
Where:
Bay Model Visitor Center
2100 Bridgeway
Sausalito, CA 94965
View map »
Sponsor: Bay Model Visitor Center
Telephone: 415-332-3871
Contact Name: Bay Model Visitor Center
Website »
CURIODYSSEY’S ILLUMINODYSSEY A WINTER LIGHT EXPERIENCE FOR KIDS November 2 - January 6 | 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. November 2, December 7, January 4, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Electrify your...
Cost: $9.50-$13.50
Where:
CuriOdyssey
1651 Coyote Point Drive
San Mateo, CA 94401
View map »
Sponsor: CuriOdyssey
Telephone: 650-342-7755
Contact Name: CuriOdyssey
Website »
Kids will move, play games, sing, stretch, and balance to foster gross motor skills. The program includes Animal Action, Alphabet Poses, Bean Bag Balance, Freeze Dance, and surprise game...
Cost: FREE
Where:
South San Francisco Public Library
840 West Orange Avenue
South San Francisco, CA 94080
View map »
Sponsor: South San Francisco Public Library
Telephone: 650-829-3860
Contact Name: South San Francisco Public Library
Website »
If you can't get to LEGOLAND® over the holiday break, here's the Peninsula's version of the next best thing. Now in its 15th year, the Annual Holiday Extravaganza featuring...
Cost: $3 / person
Where:
Museum of American Heritage
351 Homer Ave
Palo Alto, CA 94301
View map »
Sponsor: MOAH, BayLUG, and BayLTC
Contact Name: Adam Williams
Website »
Visit Santa and have photos taken at the Jelly Belly Visitor Center as this candy palace becomes a winter wonderland. A professional photographer will be onsite, but feel free to bring your own...
Cost: Free
Where:
Jelly Belly Visitor Center
One Jelly Belly Lane
Fairfield, CA 94533
View map »
Sponsor: Jelly Belly Candy Company
Telephone: 1-800-953-5592
Website »
Please join us for our new weekly Book Passage storytime in our Sausalito store. Mari Allen, our bookseller, will read new and classic picture books that are sure to engage and delight. Storytime...
Cost: Free
Where:
Book Passage
100 Bay Street
Sausalito, CA 94965
View map »
Sponsor: Book Passage
Telephone: 415-927-0960
Contact Name: Zack Ruskin
Website »
It's Santa photo time! Reserve your FastPass and skip the line to see Santa by visiting: https://www.santasfastpass.com/scheduling/Yeps4KXZ:stoneridge-shopping-center
Cost: Free
Where:
1 Stoneridge Mall Rd
Pleasanton, CA 94588
View map »
Village Hub Holiday Party and Gift Faire The Village Hub Friday, Dec. 21, 2018 11am - 5pm Enjoy a Village Holiday! Buy fabulous gifts, cards, jewelry, and art; grab lunch or...
Cost: free
Where:
The Village Hub @ Woodside Village Church
3154 Woodside Road
Woodside, CA 94062
View map »
Sponsor: Village Hub
Telephone: 310-437-3766
Contact Name: Sabrina Maron
Website »
It's Santa photo time! Reserve your FastPass and skip the line to see Santa by visiting: https://www.santasfastpass.com/scheduling/Y_bsdDv3:stanford-shopping-center
Cost: Free
Where:
Stanford Shopping Center
660 Stanford Shopping Center
Palo Alto, CA 94304
View map »
WHAT: Bayfair Center invites children and their families to visit with Santa Claus to share their wish lists and all the magic of the holiday season from November 17th through December 24th....
Cost: 24.99 to $49.99
Where:
Bayfair Center
15555 East 14th Street
San Leandro, CA 94578
View map »
Head over to Westgate Center for your photos with Santa. Check website for time and prices. Nov. 17-Dec. 24.
Cost: TBA
Where:
Westgate Center - Center Court by Ross
1600 Saratoga Ave.
San Jose, CA 95129
View map »
The exhibit features a collection of iron toys, antique shaving mugs, children’s books and dolls, advertising boxes, and other items that would have been given as presents in days gone by.
Cost: FREE
Where:
Los Altos History Museum
51 S San Antonio Road
Los Altos, CA 94022
View map »
Sponsor: Los Altos History Museum
Website »
Celebrate the winter holidays of many cultures at Children's Fairyland: Christmas, Chanukah, Kwanzaa, Las Posadas, Diwali, and Chinese New Year. You'll enjoy stories, crafts, special...
Cost: $10 general, $5 Fairyland members
Where:
Children's Fairyland
699 Bellevue Ave.
Oakland, CA 94610
View map »
Sponsor: Children's Fairyland
Telephone: 510-238-6876
Website »
About Sis Boom Bah!New Museum Los Gatos (NUMU) is thrilled to announce the September 2018 opening of an expansive exhibition that takes a deep dive into the long history of the town’s high...
Cost: Kids under 18 are Free. Adult $10/ Seniors, Educators, Military $6
Where:
New Museum Los Gatos
106 E. Main St.
Los Gatos, CA 95030
View map »
Sponsor: New Museum Los Gatos | NUMU
Telephone: 408-354-2646
Contact Name: New Museum Los Gatos
Website »
The story of Juana Briones is a tale of resilience, ingenuity and business savvy – the hallmarks of Silicon Valley. Juana Briones was an early entrepreneur who owned several...
Cost: FREE
Where:
Los Altos History Museum
51 S San Antonio Road
Los Altos, CA 94022
View map »
Sponsor: Los Altos History Museum
Website »
Boo! Hiss! Cheer!It is our fifth PantoSF year with "Sleeping Beauty the Panto"Its 2018 were are not sleeping! We are wide awake!.. Back by popular demand with a brand new panto following up from...
Cost: $25 - $50
Where:
Custom Made Theatre
533 Sutter St.
San Francisco, CA 94102
View map »
Sponsor: Panto SF
Contact Name: Patricia Miller
Website »
Boo! Hiss! Cheer! It is our fifth PantoSF year with "Sleeping Beauty the Panto" Its 2018 were are not sleeping! We are wide awake! Back by popular demand with a brand new panto...
Cost: $25 -50
Where:
Custom Made Theatre
533 Sutter St.
San Francisco, CA 94102
View map »
Sponsor: Panto SF
Contact Name: Patricia Miller
Website »
Ho ho ho and Fool La La! It’s the most wonderful time of the year as the Bay Area’s favorite Clown Prince of Fools, Unique Derique, returns to The Marsh San Francisco in this fifth annual zany...
Cost: $15-$35 sliding scale, $55-$100 reserved
Where:
The Marsh San Francisco
1062 Valencia Street
San Francisco , CA 94110
View map »
Sponsor: The Marsh
Telephone: 415-282-3055
Contact Name: The Marsh
Website »
Smuin kicks off the holidays with the return of The Christmas Ballet, the beloved Bay Area tradition featuring two acts packed to the brim with both flawless classical ballet and red-hot...
Cost: $25-$91, Terrace & Orchestra
Where:
Yerba Buena Center for the Arts- YBCA Theater
700 Howard Street (at Third)
San Francisco, CA 94103
View map »
Sponsor: Smuin
Telephone: 415-912-1899
Contact Name: Yerba Buena Center for the Arts YBCA Theater
Website »
Santa Clara Ice at Central Park is proud of bring ice skating back to Central Park from November 19, 2019 - January 21, 2019! Santa Clara Ice is your winter home for fun. Monday-Thursday 2:00 PM...
Cost: $10 - $15 per person
Where:
Central Park
969 Kiely Boulevard
Santa Clara, CA 95051
View map »
Sponsor: Silicon Valley Power and City of Santa Clara Parks & Recreation
Telephone: 408-615-3140
Website »
Golden State Youth Orchestra Mid-Season Auditions Musicians ages 6-18 are invited to audition for Golden State Youth Orchestra! Palo Alto-based Golden State Youth Orchestra (GSYO) invites...
Cost: $25 audition fee
Where:
GSYO Office
4055 Fabian Way
Palo Alto, CA
View map »
Sponsor: Golden State Youth Orchestra
Telephone: 650-665-9046
Website »
Finger knitting is a fun, productive way to spend your free time when you need something to do. When you're finished, you'll have a beautiful rope of yarn that you can use in many different...
Cost: Free
Where:
Bascom Branch Library
1000 S. Bascom Avenue
San Jose, CA 95128
View map »
Teens 14-18 are invited to play with or compete against others in the library Tech Lab everyday afterschool hours.
Cost: FREE
Where:
Mitchell Park Library
3700 Middlefield Road
Palo Alto, CA 94303
View map »
Kids and teens meet Friday after school to unwind, make new friends and play some fun games at the library. There's board games, video games, arcade basketball, ping pong, and so much...
Cost: FREE
Where:
Hillview Branch Library
1600 Hopkins Dr.
San Jose , CA 95122
View map »
Join us after school for lemonade, cookies, and a craft. See full schedule at: https://www.craftifulstudio.com/workshops/?view=calendar&month=September-201
Cost: $10
Where:
Craftiful Make & Take Studio
1743 Park Avenue
San Jose, CA 95126
View map »
Sponsor: Craftiful Make & Take Studio
Telephone: 669-230-3807
Contact Name: Kirsten Rowe
Website »
Get the chance to be actors and actresses as you pretend you are characters set in a mythical world of dungeons and dragons. Every Fri.
Cost: FREE
Where:
Rose Garden Branch Library
1580 Naglee Ave.
San Jose, CA
View map »
Apres, an elegant outdoor lounge, emulates a cozy mountainside retreat with apres-ski cuisine and drinks. There will be snow fall every hour between 4-11pm. There are fireside movies at...
Cost: FREE with purchase of food and beverage; reservations suggested
Where:
Four Seasons Hotel Silicon Valley
2050 University Ave.
East Palo Alto, CA
View map »
Telephone: 800-819-5053
Website »
A yoga classes designed specifically for kids every 1st and 3rd Friday of the month September -December! Along with yoga, each themed class is accompanied by other elements such as...
Cost: FREE
Where:
Morgan Hill Library
660 W Main Ave,
Morgan Hill, CA 95037
View map »
Festive lights, Santa, ice skating and live shows in the tradition of the holiday season. Feast on turkey and all the trimmings and bundle up with family for a ride around the park on the train....
Cost: TBA
Where:
Gilroy Gardens
3050 Hecker Pass Hwy
Gilroy, CA 95020
View map »
There’s a good reason why this has become a holiday tradition for many families. The train is decked out with lights and decorations inside and out on an hour-long ride through...
Cost: $30 coach, $50 first-class dome, $600 private caboose
Where:
Niles Train Station
37001 Mission Blvd
Fremont, CA 94536
View map »
Telephone: 510-996-8420
Website »
Described as a “nighttime spectacular of light and color,” the celebration of Chinese culture features hundreds of huge, handcrafted lanterns in a variety of themed displays that...
Cost: $18-23
Where:
Alameda County Fairgrounds
Gate 8 or Gate 12
Corner of Bernal and Valley Ave.
Pleasanton, CA 94566
View map »
Telephone: 651-504-2000
Website »
Bring in the holidays with live jazz performances at Bay Street throughout the holiday season. Everyone is Invited to stop by the Center Plaza to enjoy free hot apple...
Cost: Free
Where:
Bay Street Emeryville - Center Plaza
5616 Bay Street
Emeryville, CA 94608
View map »
Sponsor: Bay Street Emeryville
Telephone: 510-655-4002
Contact Name: Tharasa Athauda
Website »
Drive through a 1.5-mile-long annual holiday lights display in Vasona Lake County Park to see electric dinosaurs and penguins, Santa shooting hoops and so much more. Dec. 4-30, closed Dec. 25. All...
Cost: $20/car
Where:
Vasona Lake County Park
333 Blossom Hill Road
Los Gatos, CA
View map »
The world premiere exhibition by internationally-acclaimed artist Bruce Munro, opens this Sunday, October 28, at Montalvo Arts Center, located on 175 acres in the Silicon Valley,...
Cost: $15-27
Where:
Montalvo Arts Center
15400 Montalvo Road
Saratoga, CA
View map »
Millbrae Goes to the Movies! Come join the Millbrae Recreation Department for a night of games, snacks and a FREE screening of Elf. This family-friendly event begins with games and snacks at...
Cost: FREE
Where:
St. Dunstan School Gym
1150 Magnolia Ave.
Millbrae, CA 94030
View map »
Sponsor: City of Millbrae Recreation Department
Telephone: 650-259-2365
Contact Name: Kyle Smith
The Safeway Holiday Ice Rink in Union Square presented by Alaska Airlines celebrates more than a decade of outdoor ice skating by throwing it back to the musical hits of everyone’s favorite...
Cost: $18
Where:
union square
333 Post Street
San Francisco, CA 94108
View map »
Sponsor: Safeway Ice Rink at Union Square
Telephone: 415-296-0677
The Safeway Holiday Ice Rink in Union Square presented by Alaska Airlines celebrates more than a decade of outdoor ice skating by throwing it back to the musical hits of everyone’s favorite...
Cost: $18
Where:
union square
333 Post Street
San Francisco, CA 94108
View map »
Sponsor: Safeway Ice Rink at Union Square
Telephone: 415-296-0677
Website »
Visit the town of Bethlehem on the night that changed history. See shepherds, kings, angels, live sheep and camels, and a special baby.
Cost: FREE
Where:
1305 Middlefield Road
Redwood City, CA
View map »
Telephone: 650-368-3821, ext. 1302
Website »
Thursday, December 20 - 7:00pm, Friday, December 21 - 2:00pm and 7:00pm, Saturday, December 22 - 11:00am and 3:00pm Playful People Productions Presents: The Marshmallow Incident The Marshmallow...
Cost: $15 12+, $10 11 & under, $8 Children's floor seating; Door $18/12/8
Where:
Historic Hoover Theatre
1635 Park Ave
San Jose, CA 95126
View map »
Sponsor: Playful People Productions
Telephone: 408-878-5362
Contact Name: Paige Keller
Website »
Boo! Hiss! Cheer!It is our fifth PantoSF year with "Sleeping Beauty the Panto"Its 2018 were are not sleeping! We are wide awake! Back by popular demand with a brand new panto following up from our...
Cost: $25 - $50
Where:
Custom Made Theatre
533 Sutter St.
San Francisco, CA 94102
View map »
Sponsor: Panto SF
Contact Name: Patricia Miller
Website »
Get ready for a full-force, non-stop show of thrilling feats at Circus Bella’s winter spectacular, KALEIDOSCOPE. Circus Bella has been performing free circus in the parks all over the Bay...
Cost: $39, $55, $150
Where:
Mersea Meadow
699 Ave of the Palms
Treasure Island
San Francisco, CA 94130
View map »
Sponsor: Circus Bella
Telephone: 415-480-4239
Contact Name: Suzanne Santos
Website »
December 14-23, Fridays & Saturdays 7:30pm, Saturdays & Sundays 2pm Based on one of the most popular Disney movies of all time, Disney and Cameron Mackintosh's youth musical...
Cost: $7-$18; youth, senior discounts.
Where:
Amador Theater
1155 Santa Rita Road
Pleasanton, CA 94566
View map »
Sponsor: City of Pleasanton Firehouse Arts Center
Telephone: 925-931-4848
Website »
Smuin kicks off the holidays with the return of The Christmas Ballet, the beloved Bay Area tradition featuring two acts packed to the brim with both flawless classical ballet and red-hot...
Cost: $25-$91, Terrace & Orchestra
Where:
Yerba Buena Center for the Arts- YBCA Theater
700 Howard Street (at Third)
San Francisco, CA 94103
View map »
Sponsor: Smuin
Telephone: 415-912-1899
Contact Name: Smuin
Website »
An enchanting bestseller springs to life as TheatreWorks Silicon Valley brings the regional premiere of Tuck Everlasting to Palo Alto. In this 1890s tale, free-spirited Winner Foster’s search for...
Cost: $40-$100
Where:
Lucie Stern Community Center
1305 Middlefield Rd
Palo Alto, CA 94301
View map »
Sponsor: TheatreWorks Silicon Valley
Telephone: 650-463-1960
Contact Name: TheatreWorks Silicon Valley
Website »
This concert features Windham Hill founder, Will Ackerman, guitarist Alex DiGrassi, longtime artist Barbara Higbie, and Marin County-based guitarist Todd Boston.
Cost: $25-65
Where:
Marin Veterans' Memorial Auditorium
10 Avenue of the Flags
San Rafael, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-473-6800
Website »
African-American Shakespeare Company presents CINDERELLA Directed by Mark Allan Davis An annual holiday treat, this timeless tale, brought to whimsical, magical life just in time for the...
Cost: 25-45
Where:
Herbst Theatre
401 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, CA 94102
View map »
Sponsor: African-American Shakespeare Company
Website »
Over 70 local dancers will perform with the 52-piece Santa Cruz Ballet Theatre Orchestra in the 17th season of dance company’s Nutcracker. Fri., 8pm. Sat.-Sun., 1 and 4pm.
Cost: $20.50 and up
Where:
Civic Auditorium
307 Church St.
Santa Cruz, CA
View map »
Shen Yun is dedicated to reviving 5,000 years of divinely inspired civilization by bringing its profound spirit to life on stage with unrivaled artistic mastery. Shen Yun combines...
Cost: $80 and up
Where:
Center for the Performing Arts
255 Almaden Blvd.
San Jose, CA
View map »
This show is set to holiday tunes and features an array of dance styles including classical ballet, tap, jazz and swing. A highlight is Santa Baby featuring a 42-foot-long feather boa.
Cost: $25-89
Where:
Yerba Buena Center for the Arts
700 Howard St.
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-912-1899
Website »
Inspired in part of the adventurous spirit of street sports, this show combines acrobatics and music while exploring how technology often isolates people from one another than freeing them.
Cost: $54-45
Where:
AT&T Park
24 Willie Mays Plaza
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 877-924-7783
Website »
Travel through the Land of the Snowflakes and on to the Kingdom of Sweets as the Alameda Civic Ballet presents this journey of Clara and the Nutcracker Prince. Fri., Dec. 21: 7pm Sat.,...
Cost: $34-38 adults, $24-28 youth under age 18
Where:
Castro Valley Center for the Arts
19501 Redwood Road
Castro Valley, CA 94546
View map »
Telephone: 510-337-1929
Website »
The magical world of storytelling mechanical sculptures known as automata returns to the Exploratorium for the third year in a row. Watch these miniature dramas unfold while observing the low-tech...
Cost: $29.95 adults, $19.95 ages 4-12, under 4 FREE
Where:
Pier 15
Embarcadero at Green Street
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-528-4444
Website »
Get ready for a full-force, non-stop show of thrilling feats at Circus Bella’s winter spectacular, KALEIDOSCOPE. Circus Bella has been performing free circus in the parks all over the Bay...
Cost: $39, $55, $150
Where:
Mersea Meadow
699 Avenue of the Palms
San Francisco, CA 94130
View map »
Sponsor: Circus Bella
Telephone: 224-267-5363
Contact Name: Orlene Gentile
Website »
t’s a concert. It’s a Circus. It’s an inspiration. Weaving the wisdom of beloved Persian poet Hafiz into their rich tapestry of unique harmonies, award-winning...
Cost: $22-75
Where:
Dance Mission Theater
3316 24th St.
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: (800) 838-3006
Website »
Get into the holiday spirit by taking a spin out on this rink. 9am-1pm weekdays. 9am-5pm weekends.
Cost: Included with admission: $14.95.
Where:
Bay Area Discovery Museum
557 McReynolds Road
Sausalito, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-339-3900
Website »
The San Jose Nutcracker takes place in San Jose at the turn of the last century. Presented in partnership with History San Jose, and featuring the voices of Ragazzi Premiere singers, it tells the...
Cost: $19 and up
Where:
SJSU Hammer Theatre Center
101 Paseo De San Antonio
San Jose, CA
View map »
MACLA's most visible and popular exhibition takes inventory of the critical edge and aesthetic interventions within contemporary Chicano art. A cross-generational survey of art by...
Cost: FREE
Where:
MACLA
500 S. First St.
San Jose, CA 95113
View map »
Combine and design with nature’s loose parts in Bill’s Backyard to take part in an ever-changing collaborative art project. Meet the artist, Zach Pine, on Nov. 24, Dec. 14, Dec. 29-30...
Cost: adults: $15; children: $15; seniors: $14; infants and members are free.
Where:
Children’s Discovery Museum of San Jose
180 Woz Way
San Jose, CA 95110
View map »
A three-dimensional yearbook-style exhibition explores what it has meant to be a LGHS Wildcat over the course of the school's 100 years+ history. Visitors don’t have to be a graduate or...
Cost: $6-10, under 18 FREE
Where:
New Museum Los Gatos | NUMU
106 E. Main St.
Los Gatos, CA 95030
View map »
Telephone: 408-354-2646
Website »
Great America celebrates all things winter with this month-long celebration. Ice skate in front of the iconic carousel, enjoy magnificent light displays, take a walk through Santa’s workshop...
Cost: $26 and up
Where:
Great America
4701 Great America Parkway
Santa Clara, CA
View map »
This year’s event features snow flurries, a hands-on polar themed exhibit, a festive ice rink, live performances and a Snowman Theater.
Cost: Most activities included with admission: $35.95 adults, $30.95 youth ages 12-17,
Where:
California Academy of Sciences
Golden Gate Park
55 Music Concourse Drive
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-379-8000
Website »
This 50-minute performance features danced storytelling with live music.
Cost: Call for prices
Where:
Cowell Theater
Fort Mason Center
Marina Boulevard and Buchanan Street
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-345-7575
Website »
See Santa’s reindeer Belle, Holly and Peppermint and enjoy dazzling light displays. Then take a spin on the carousel set to holiday music.
Cost: Included with admission: $23 adults, $17 children 4-14, under 4 FREE
Where:
San Francisco Zoo
Sloat Boulevard and Great Highway
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-753-7080
Website »
Tea sandwiches, scones and a kid-friendly buffet and dessert buffet are on the menu for this annual tea. There will be balloons, face painting, a nutcracker and cookie decorating, plus visits...
Cost: $80, $75 with unwrapped toy donation
Where:
Intercontinental Mark Hopkins
999 California St.
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-616-6941
Website »
Walk through this two-story gingerbread house to a tea with holiday entertainment. Check website for times.
Cost: $119, $89 under 12
Where:
Laurel Court Restaurant
Fairmont Hotel
950 Mason St.
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 877-979-9608
Website »
The pop culture phenomenon School House Rock comes to the stage! Featuring the classic songs of the Emmy-Award winning series, including Just a Bill, Conjunction Junction,...
Cost: $12-14
Where:
Palo Alto Children's Theatre
1305 Middlefield Road
Palo Alto, CA
View map »
This Bay Area circus celebrates diversity and color and features aerialists, acrobats, jugglers, high wire artists, family foot jugglers, clowns and more. Shows are Thu-Sun. Check website for times.
Cost: $39-150
Where:
Near Mersea Restaurant
699 Avenue of the Palms
Treasure Island
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-480-4239
Website »
Taste the special Filoli holiday blend and enjoy finger sandwiches, scones and holiday treats. Check websites for days and times.
Cost: $75
Where:
Filoli
86 Cañada Road
Woodside, CA
View map »
Telephone: 650-364-8300
Website »
In this annual tradition, children dine on hot chocolate and teddy bear cookies and sandwiches while being entertained by an elf and a giant teddy bear. Each child receives a teddy bear gift and...
Cost: $130
Where:
Ritz-Carlton Hotel
600 Stockton St.
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-296-7465
Website »
Visit the Dunsmuir Hellman Historic Estate, decked out in Edwardian holiday splendor, for mansion tours, a high tea on Sun., Dec. 9, brunch with Santa on Sun. Dec. 16, family photo sessions, a...
Cost: $12-22 general, high tea $15-55, Santa brunch $15-35
Where:
Dunsmuir Hellman Historic Estate
2960 Peralta Oaks Court
Oakland , CA 94605
View map »
Telephone: 510-615-5555
Website »
This family show features colorful giant puppets and is inspired by Eric Carle’s stories Dream Snow, Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See and A Very Hungry Caterpillar. Recommended for...
Cost: $28 adults, $24 children
Where:
Children's Creativity Museum
221 4th St.
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 510-296-4433
Website »
Make friends as you explore the importance of images, sounds, and graphics while creating your own animated projects.
Cost: FREE
Where:
MACLA
500 S. First St.
San Jose, CA 95113
View map »
Bay Area artists Monica Canilao and Xara Thustra collaborate for their first large-scale exhibition that explores feminist and anti-capitalist themes and challenges viewers to step back and...
Cost: Admission $8-10, children under 5 FREE
Where:
Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History
705 Front St.
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
View map »
Telephone: 831-429-1964
Website »
Don’t miss NBA All-Star Baron Davis’ pop-up winter wonderland featuring Black Santa merchandise, holiday sweets, festive workshops and visits with Black Santa and Mrs. C. Store...
Cost: Costs vary
Where:
Jack London Square
54 Washington St.
Oakland, CA 94607
View map »
Telephone: 510-645-9292
Website »
This show features 17 hip hop artists from The Tribe and Poise’n. Instead of going to Candy Land in her dreams, Clara goes to Hip Hop Land.
Cost: Call for prices
Where:
Fox Theatre
2215 Broadway
Redwood City, CA
View map »
Telephone: 650-369-7770
Website »
This long-running musical parody features iconic holiday characters like Christmas King. Louis, Mr. Peanut Santa and a chorus of tap-dancing Christmas trees. Expect spoofs of pop culture and...
Cost: $30-155
Where:
Club Fugazi
678 Beach Blanket Blvd.
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-421-4222
Website »
This production features a cast of dozens, gorgeous costumes and spooky ghosts.
Cost: $15-200
Where:
A.C.T.’s Geary Theater
415 Geary Street
San Francisco , CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-749- 2228
Website »
Take a holiday adventure into Victorian London and marvel at 800 costumed characters in music halls, pubs, theaters, dance parties and more. Dozens of lamp-lit shots will be stocked with Christmas...
Cost: $30 adults, $14 ages 5-12, under 5 FREE
Where:
Cow Palace Exhibition Halls
2600 Geneva Ave.
Daly City, CA
View map »
Telephone: 800-510-1558
Website »
Bring a can of food and bowl a game for free. All donations go to Second Harvest Food Bank of Santa Cruz County to fee local families. Does not include shoe rental.
Cost: FREE,.
Where:
Santa Cruz Boardwalk
400 Beach St.
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
View map »
Ride a holiday train through Victorian Santa Cruz as you sip hot spiced cider, listen to carolers, meet Santa & Mrs. Claus. November 23, 2018 - December 23, 2018...
Cost: $33 ages 13 and up, $27 2-12, under 2 FREE
Where:
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
400 Beach St.
, CA
View map »
The first Nutcracker in the United States premiered in San Francisco in 1944. This favorite holiday production features snowflakes, dancing flowers and a little girl who dreams about a whole new...
Cost: $39-420
Where:
War Memorial Opera House
301 Van Ness Ave.
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-865-2000
Website »
When a storm hits her farm, Dorothy and her dog are swept over the rainbow to a magical land. Nov. 9-Dec. 23 1pm, 2pm and 7pm
Cost: $20-40
Where:
The Julia Morgan Theater
2640 College Ave.
Berkeley, CA 94704
View map »
Telephone: 510-845-8542, ext. 351
Website »
WHAT: Bayfair Center rings in the holiday season with FREE live entertainment throughout the holidays. The entertainment groups will be strolling through the center spreading cheer. For...
Cost: FREE
Where:
Bayfair Center
15555 E. 14th St.
San Leandro, CA 94578
View map »
The Plant Exchange is excited to announce ONE more 2018 Green Elephant Sale date, for all your last minute holiday gifts: *Saturday, December 22nd – 9am-4pm W H A T:...
Cost: Free Admission
Where:
Green Elephant Sale
445 30th Street
Oakland, CA 94609
View map »
Sponsor: The Plant Exchange
Telephone: 510-866-8482
Contact Name: Odette Pollar
Website »
The Artists, Poets, and Impresarios of the Late 1940’s in Sausalito When World War II ended in 1945, men and women who had fought to overcome tyranny abroad came home and sought to create lives...
Cost: Free
Where:
Bay Model Visitor Center
2100 Bridgeway
Sausalito, CA 94965
View map »
Sponsor: Bay Model Visitor Center
Telephone: 415-332-3871
Contact Name: Bay Model Visitor Center
Website »
The holiday season is here, and Great Mall, one of the largest premiere shopping and entertainment destinations in Northern California, is hosting several festivities for the whole family to enjoy....
Cost: FREE
Where:
Great Mall
447 Great Mall Dr.
Milpitas, CA 95035
View map »
Contact Name: Great Mall
Website »
CURIODYSSEY’S ILLUMINODYSSEY A WINTER LIGHT EXPERIENCE FOR KIDS November 2 - January 6 | 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. November 2, December 7, January 4, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Electrify your...
Cost: $9.50-$13.50
Where:
CuriOdyssey
1651 Coyote Point Drive
San Mateo, CA 94401
View map »
Sponsor: CuriOdyssey
Telephone: 650-342-7755
Contact Name: CuriOdyssey
Website »
Family yoga is an introduction to yoga class, with a mixture of yoga games, postures, music, meditation, and fun. Our hope is that this yoga class will give families an opportunity to...
Cost: $25/family
Where:
Yama Kids Yoga studio
2631 Ashby Ave
Ste. A
Berkeley, CA 94705
View map »
Telephone: 650-520-1937
Contact Name: Beth Houghton
Website »
This exhibit connects art and science through Ray Troll’s colorful renderings and paleontologist Kirk Johnson’s research to paint a picture of land and creatures from thousands of...
Cost: $15.95 adults; $6.95 ages 9-17; members and ages 8 and under FREE
Where:
Oakland Museum of California
1000 Oak St.
Oakland, CA 94607
View map »
Telephone: 510-318-8400
Website »
Would you like to introduce your children to the amazing world of chess? Or do your children already know how to play chess and would benefit from ongoing challenges? Come join us every other...
Cost: Free
Where:
Bascom Branch Library
1000 S. Bascom Avenue
San Jose, CA 95128
View map »
Telephone: 408-808-3077
Website »
Would you like to introduce your children to the amazing world of chess? Do your children already know how to play chess and would benefit from ongoing practice and challenges? Join us...
Cost: Free
Where:
Bascom Branch Library
1000 S. Bascom Avenue
San Jose, CA 95128
View map »
Sponsor: San Jose Public Library and Bay Area Chess
Telephone: 408-808-3077
Website »
Ring in the holidays at Town Center Corte Madera with festive live musical performances by Marin Youth Symphony as well as a handful of local bands. Everyone is also invited to enjoy free...
Cost: Free
Where:
Town Center Corte Madera
100 Corte Madera Town Center
Corte Madera, CA 94925
View map »
Sponsor: Corte Madera Town Center
Telephone: 415-924-2961
Contact Name: Dee Dee Taft
Website »
It's Santa photo time! Reserve your FastPass and skip the line to see Santa by visiting: https://www.santasfastpass.com/scheduling/Y_bsdDv3:stanford-shopping-center
Cost: Free
Where:
Stanford Shopping Center
660 Stanford Shopping Center
Palo Alto, CA 94304
View map »
If you can't get to LEGOLAND® over the holiday break, here's the Peninsula's version of the next best thing. Now in its 15th year, the Annual Holiday Extravaganza featuring...
Cost: $3 / person
Where:
Museum of American Heritage
351 Homer Ave
Palo Alto, CA 94301
View map »
Sponsor: MOAH, BayLUG, and BayLTC
Contact Name: Adam Williams
Website »
Head over to Westgate Center for your photos with Santa. Check website for time and prices. Nov. 17-Dec. 24.
Cost: TBA
Where:
Westgate Center - Center Court by Ross
1600 Saratoga Ave.
San Jose, CA 95129
View map »
Santa Claus is coming to town! On these Saturdays, Filoli features special programming for the whole family, but especially the young at heart! Special features include: The opportunity to...
Cost: Included with admission: $22 adults, $11 children 5-17, under 5 FREE
Where:
Filoli
86 Canada Rd.
Woodside, CA 94062
View map »
Sponsor: http://www,filoli.org
Telephone: 650-364-8300
Contact Name: Filoli
Website »
It's Santa photo time! Reserve your FastPass and skip the line to see Santa by visiting: https://www.santasfastpass.com/scheduling/Yeps4KXZ:stoneridge-shopping-center
Cost: Free
Where:
1 Stoneridge Mall Rd
Pleasanton, CA 94588
View map »
Visit Santa and have photos taken at the Jelly Belly Visitor Center as this candy palace becomes a winter wonderland. A professional photographer will be onsite, but feel free to bring your own...
Cost: Free
Where:
Jelly Belly Visitor Center
One Jelly Belly Lane
Fairfield, CA 94533
View map »
Sponsor: Jelly Belly Candy Company
Telephone: 1-800-953-5592
Website »
Celebrate the holidays with songs, stories and a holiday card craft.
Cost: FREE
Where:
Excelsior Branch Library
4400 Mission St.
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-355-2868
Website »
WHAT: Bayfair Center invites children and their families to visit with Santa Claus to share their wish lists and all the magic of the holiday season from November 17th through December 24th....
Cost: 24.99 to $49.99
Where:
Bayfair Center
15555 East 14th Street
San Leandro, CA 94578
View map »
Ring in the holidays with festive fun at Town Center Corte Madera. From parents to little ones, everyone is invited to enjoy free photos with Santa, as well as free holiday gift-wrapping services...
Cost: Free
Where:
Town Center Corte Madera
100 Corte Madera Town Center
Corte Madera, CA 94925
View map »
Sponsor: Corte Madera Town Center
Telephone: 415-924-2961
Contact Name: Dee Dee Taft
Website »
Ring in the holidays with free festive fun at Bay Street. People and pets are invited to stop by Bay Street’s Center Plaza to visit and take FREE selfies with Santa Claus as well as enjoy...
Cost: Free
Where:
Bay Street Emeryville - Center Plaza
5616 Bay Street
Emeryville, CA 94608
View map »
Sponsor: Bay Street Emeryville
Telephone: 510-655-4002
Contact Name: Tharasa Athauda
Website »
All ages are welcome to drop by and play with Lego blocks. Creations will be displayed at the front of the library for one week.
Cost: FREE
Where:
Pinole Library
2935 Pinole Valley Road
Pinole, CA 94564
View map »
Telephone: 510-758-2741
Website »
Celebrate winter by using puff paints to create extended images of your favorite snowy day activities. Kids will create their own puff paints and use them to make cool 3D images! Every Saturday...
Cost: $8 Materials Fee + Adult Museum Admission
Where:
New Museum Los Gatos | NUMU
106 East Main Street
Los Gatos, CA 95030
View map »
Telephone: 408-354-2646
Contact Name: Brie Pena
Website »
The exhibit features a collection of iron toys, antique shaving mugs, children’s books and dolls, advertising boxes, and other items that would have been given as presents in days gone by.
Cost: FREE
Where:
Los Altos History Museum
51 S San Antonio Road
Los Altos, CA 94022
View map »
Sponsor: Los Altos History Museum
Website »
The story of Juana Briones is a tale of resilience, ingenuity and business savvy – the hallmarks of Silicon Valley. Juana Briones was an early entrepreneur who owned several...
Cost: FREE
Where:
Los Altos History Museum
51 S San Antonio Road
Los Altos, CA 94022
View map »
Sponsor: Los Altos History Museum
Website »
Celebrate the winter holidays of many cultures at Children's Fairyland: Christmas, Chanukah, Kwanzaa, Las Posadas, Diwali, and Chinese New Year. You'll enjoy stories, crafts, special...
Cost: $10 general, $5 Fairyland members
Where:
Children's Fairyland
699 Bellevue Ave.
Oakland, CA 94610
View map »
Sponsor: Children's Fairyland
Telephone: 510-238-6876
Website »
Explore ancient Egypt’s fascinating view of the afterlife through our collection of human and animal mummies, canopic jars, and funerary boats and models. Discover colorful and precious...
Cost: Included with admission: $5-9, under 5 FREE.
Where:
Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum
1664 Park Ave.
San Jose, CA
View map »
Telephone: 408-947-3635
Website »
Saturday, December 22 at 1pm and 5pm, and Sunday, December 23 at 1pm Oakland Ballet Company presents its ninth annual production of Graham Lustig's The Nutcracker, returning to Oakland's...
Cost: $24-97, discounts available for seniors, 12 & under, groups of 10+
Where:
Paramount Theatre
2025 Broadway
Oakland, CA 94612
View map »
Sponsor: Oakland Ballet Company
Telephone: 510-893-3132
Website »
Experience holiday magic at Graham Lustig’s The Nutcracker. Join Marie and her charming Nutcracker Prince as they battle the King of the Rats and then get swept away by dancing...
Cost: $22-97
Where:
Paramount Theatre
2025 Broadway
Oakland, CA 94612
View map »
Sponsor: Oakland Ballet Company
Telephone: 510-893-3132
Contact Name: Leah Curran
Website »
Get ready for a full-force, non-stop show of thrilling feats at Circus Bella’s winter spectacular, KALEIDOSCOPE. Circus Bella has been performing free circus in the parks all over the Bay...
Cost: $39, $55, $150
Where:
Mersea Meadow
699 Ave of the Palms
Treasure Island
San Francisco, CA 94130
View map »
Sponsor: Circus Bella
Telephone: 415-480-4239
Contact Name: Suzanne Santos
Website »
Boo! Hiss! Cheer! It is our fifth PantoSF year with "Sleeping Beauty the Panto" Its 2018 were are not sleeping! We are wide awake! Back by popular demand with a brand new panto...
Cost: $25 -50
Where:
Custom Made Theatre
533 Sutter St.
San Francisco, CA 94102
View map »
Sponsor: Panto SF
Contact Name: Patricia Miller
Website »
Boo! Hiss! Cheer!It is our fifth PantoSF year with "Sleeping Beauty the Panto"Its 2018 were are not sleeping! We are wide awake!.. Back by popular demand with a brand new panto following up from...
Cost: $25 - $50
Where:
Custom Made Theatre
533 Sutter St.
San Francisco, CA 94102
View map »
Sponsor: Panto SF
Contact Name: Patricia Miller
Website »
Ho ho ho and Fool La La! It’s the most wonderful time of the year as the Bay Area’s favorite Clown Prince of Fools, Unique Derique, returns to The Marsh San Francisco in this fifth annual zany...
Cost: $15-$35 sliding scale, $55-$100 reserved
Where:
The Marsh San Francisco
1062 Valencia Street
San Francisco , CA 94110
View map »
Sponsor: The Marsh
Telephone: 415-282-3055
Contact Name: The Marsh
Website »
Santa Clara Ice at Central Park is proud of bring ice skating back to Central Park from November 19, 2019 - January 21, 2019! Santa Clara Ice is your winter home for fun. Monday-Thursday 2:00 PM...
Cost: $10 - $15 per person
Where:
Central Park
969 Kiely Boulevard
Santa Clara, CA 95051
View map »
Sponsor: Silicon Valley Power and City of Santa Clara Parks & Recreation
Telephone: 408-615-3140
Website »
Smuin kicks off the holidays with the return of The Christmas Ballet, the beloved Bay Area tradition featuring two acts packed to the brim with both flawless classical ballet and red-hot...
Cost: $25-$91, Terrace & Orchestra
Where:
Yerba Buena Center for the Arts- YBCA Theater
700 Howard Street (at Third)
San Francisco, CA 94103
View map »
Sponsor: Smuin
Telephone: 415-912-1899
Contact Name: Yerba Buena Center for the Arts YBCA Theater
Website »
Children can now buddy up with a furry friend and read one on one from a favorite book. For Kindergarten through 5th grade. Each 20 minute session is with a specially trained therapy dog and...
Cost: FREE
Where:
Milpitas Library
160 N. Main St.
Milpitas, CA 95035
View map »
An enchanting bestseller springs to life as TheatreWorks Silicon Valley brings the regional premiere of Tuck Everlasting to Palo Alto. In this 1890s tale, free-spirited Winner Foster’s search...
Cost: $40-100
Where:
Lucie Stern Theatre
1305 Middlefield Rd
Palo Alto, CA 94301
View map »
Sponsor: TheatreWorks Silicon Valley
Telephone: 650-327-1600
Contact Name: TheatreWorks
Website »
Golden State Youth Orchestra Mid-Season Auditions Musicians ages 6-18 are invited to audition for Golden State Youth Orchestra! Palo Alto-based Golden State Youth Orchestra (GSYO) invites...
Cost: $25 audition fee
Where:
GSYO Office
4055 Fabian Way
Palo Alto, CA
View map »
Sponsor: Golden State Youth Orchestra
Telephone: 650-665-9046
Website »
Bring in the holidays with live jazz performances at Bay Street. Everyone is Invited to stop by the Center Plaza to enjoy free hot apple cider and festive favorites from the Oakland...
Cost: Free
Where:
Bay Street Emeryville - Center Plaza
5616 Bay Street
Emeryville, CA 94608
View map »
Sponsor: Bay Street Emeryville
Telephone: 510-655-4002
Contact Name: Tharasa Athauda
Website »
Festive lights, Santa, ice skating and live shows in the tradition of the holiday season. Feast on turkey and all the trimmings and bundle up with family for a ride around the park on the train....
Cost: TBA
Where:
Gilroy Gardens
3050 Hecker Pass Hwy
Gilroy, CA 95020
View map »
Apres, an elegant outdoor lounge, emulates a cozy mountainside retreat with apres-ski cuisine and drinks. There will be snow fall every hour between 4-11pm. There are fireside movies at...
Cost: FREE with purchase of food and beverage; reservations suggested
Where:
Four Seasons Hotel Silicon Valley
2050 University Ave.
East Palo Alto, CA
View map »
Telephone: 800-819-5053
Website »
Looking for a unique way to celebrate the holiday season? Join the fun with our puppet extravaganza from Fratello Marionettes.
Cost: FREE
Where:
Rose Garden Branch Library
1580 Naglee Ave.
San Jose, CA 95126
View map »
There’s a good reason why this has become a holiday tradition for many families. The train is decked out with lights and decorations inside and out on an hour-long ride through...
Cost: $30 coach, $50 first-class dome, $600 private caboose
Where:
Niles Train Station
37001 Mission Blvd
Fremont, CA 94536
View map »
Telephone: 510-996-8420
Website »
Experience holiday magic at Graham Lustig’s The Nutcracker. Join Marie and her charming Nutcracker Prince as they battle the King of the Rats and then get swept away...
Cost: $22-97
Where:
Paramount Theatre
2025 Broadway
Oakland, CA 94612
View map »
Sponsor: Oakland Ballet Company
Telephone: 510-893-3132
Contact Name: Leah Curran
Website »
Described as a “nighttime spectacular of light and color,” the celebration of Chinese culture features hundreds of huge, handcrafted lanterns in a variety of themed displays that...
Cost: $18-23
Where:
Alameda County Fairgrounds
Gate 8 or Gate 12
Corner of Bernal and Valley Ave.
Pleasanton, CA 94566
View map »
Telephone: 651-504-2000
Website »
Hundreds of thousands of LED lights will brighten Oakland's night sky along with a candy cane lane themed rides area, Christmas tree fun and a light show. *Closed Dec. 24-25.
Cost: $10 adults, $9 ages 2-14, under 2 FREE (not included with regular zoo admission)
Where:
Oakland Zoo
9777 Golf Links Road
Oakland, CA 94605
View map »
Telephone: 510-632-9525
Website »
Visit the town of Bethlehem on the night that changed history. See shepherds, kings, angels, live sheep and camels, and a special baby.
Cost: FREE
Where:
1305 Middlefield Road
Redwood City, CA
View map »
Telephone: 650-368-3821, ext. 1302
Website »
Drive through a 1.5-mile-long annual holiday lights display in Vasona Lake County Park to see electric dinosaurs and penguins, Santa shooting hoops and so much more. Dec. 4-30, closed Dec. 25. All...
Cost: $20/car
Where:
Vasona Lake County Park
333 Blossom Hill Road
Los Gatos, CA
View map »
The world premiere exhibition by internationally-acclaimed artist Bruce Munro, opens this Sunday, October 28, at Montalvo Arts Center, located on 175 acres in the Silicon Valley,...
Cost: $15-27
Where:
Montalvo Arts Center
15400 Montalvo Road
Saratoga, CA
View map »
Thursday, December 20 - 7:00pm, Friday, December 21 - 2:00pm and 7:00pm, Saturday, December 22 - 11:00am and 3:00pm Playful People Productions Presents: The Marshmallow Incident The Marshmallow...
Cost: $15 12+, $10 11 & under, $8 Children's floor seating; Door $18/12/8
Where:
Historic Hoover Theatre
1635 Park Ave
San Jose, CA 95126
View map »
Sponsor: Playful People Productions
Telephone: 408-878-5362
Contact Name: Paige Keller
Website »
Get ready for a full-force, non-stop show of thrilling feats at Circus Bella’s winter spectacular, KALEIDOSCOPE. Circus Bella has been performing free circus in the parks all over the Bay...
Cost: $39, $55, $150
Where:
Mersea Meadow
699 Ave of the Palms
Treasure Island
San Francisco, CA 94130
View map »
Sponsor: Circus Bella
Telephone: 415-480-4239
Contact Name: Suzanne Santos
Website »
December 14-23, Fridays & Saturdays 7:30pm, Saturdays & Sundays 2pm Based on one of the most popular Disney movies of all time, Disney and Cameron Mackintosh's youth musical...
Cost: $7-$18; youth, senior discounts.
Where:
Amador Theater
1155 Santa Rita Road
Pleasanton, CA 94566
View map »
Sponsor: City of Pleasanton Firehouse Arts Center
Telephone: 925-931-4848
Website »
Smuin kicks off the holidays with the return of The Christmas Ballet, the beloved Bay Area tradition featuring two acts packed to the brim with both flawless classical ballet and red-hot...
Cost: $25-$91, Terrace & Orchestra
Where:
Yerba Buena Center for the Arts- YBCA Theater
700 Howard Street (at Third)
San Francisco, CA 94103
View map »
Sponsor: Smuin
Telephone: 415-912-1899
Contact Name: Smuin
Website »
African-American Shakespeare Company presents CINDERELLA Directed by Mark Allan Davis An annual holiday treat, this timeless tale, brought to whimsical, magical life just in time for the...
Cost: 25-45
Where:
Herbst Theatre
401 Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, CA 94102
View map »
Sponsor: African-American Shakespeare Company
Website »
An enchanting bestseller springs to life as TheatreWorks Silicon Valley brings the regional premiere of Tuck Everlasting to Palo Alto. In this 1890s tale, free-spirited Winner Foster’s search for...
Cost: $40-$100
Where:
Lucie Stern Community Center
1305 Middlefield Rd
Palo Alto, CA 94301
View map »
Sponsor: TheatreWorks Silicon Valley
Telephone: 650-463-1960
Contact Name: TheatreWorks Silicon Valley
Website »
Over 70 local dancers will perform with the 52-piece Santa Cruz Ballet Theatre Orchestra in the 17th season of dance company’s Nutcracker. Fri., 8pm. Sat.-Sun., 1 and 4pm.
Cost: $20.50 and up
Where:
Civic Auditorium
307 Church St.
Santa Cruz, CA
View map »
MACLA's most visible and popular exhibition takes inventory of the critical edge and aesthetic interventions within contemporary Chicano art. A cross-generational survey of art by...
Cost: FREE
Where:
MACLA
500 S. First St.
San Jose, CA 95113
View map »
Get ready for a full-force, non-stop show of thrilling feats at Circus Bella’s winter spectacular, KALEIDOSCOPE. Circus Bella has been performing free circus in the parks all over the Bay...
Cost: $39, $55, $150
Where:
Mersea Meadow
699 Avenue of the Palms
San Francisco, CA 94130
View map »
Sponsor: Circus Bella
Telephone: 224-267-5363
Contact Name: Orlene Gentile
Website »
See Santa’s reindeer Belle, Holly and Peppermint and enjoy dazzling light displays. Then take a spin on the carousel set to holiday music.
Cost: Included with admission: $23 adults, $17 children 4-14, under 4 FREE
Where:
San Francisco Zoo
Sloat Boulevard and Great Highway
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-753-7080
Website »
This 50-minute performance features danced storytelling with live music.
Cost: Call for prices
Where:
Cowell Theater
Fort Mason Center
Marina Boulevard and Buchanan Street
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-345-7575
Website »
This year’s event features snow flurries, a hands-on polar themed exhibit, a festive ice rink, live performances and a Snowman Theater.
Cost: Most activities included with admission: $35.95 adults, $30.95 youth ages 12-17,
Where:
California Academy of Sciences
Golden Gate Park
55 Music Concourse Drive
San Francisco, CA
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Telephone: 415-379-8000
Website »
Ride a holiday train through Victorian Santa Cruz as you sip hot spiced cider, listen to carolers, meet Santa & Mrs. Claus. November 23, 2018 - December 23, 2018...
Cost: $33 ages 13 and up, $27 2-12, under 2 FREE
Where:
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
400 Beach St.
, CA
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Visit the Dunsmuir Hellman Historic Estate, decked out in Edwardian holiday splendor, for mansion tours, a high tea on Sun., Dec. 9, brunch with Santa on Sun. Dec. 16, family photo sessions, a...
Cost: $12-22 general, high tea $15-55, Santa brunch $15-35
Where:
Dunsmuir Hellman Historic Estate
2960 Peralta Oaks Court
Oakland , CA 94605
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Telephone: 510-615-5555
Website »
Take a holiday adventure into Victorian London and marvel at 800 costumed characters in music halls, pubs, theaters, dance parties and more. Dozens of lamp-lit shots will be stocked with Christmas...
Cost: $30 adults, $14 ages 5-12, under 5 FREE
Where:
Cow Palace Exhibition Halls
2600 Geneva Ave.
Daly City, CA
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Telephone: 800-510-1558
Website »
Bring a can of food and bowl a game for free. All donations go to Second Harvest Food Bank of Santa Cruz County to fee local families. Does not include shoe rental.
Cost: FREE,.
Where:
Santa Cruz Boardwalk
400 Beach St.
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
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Don’t miss NBA All-Star Baron Davis’ pop-up winter wonderland featuring Black Santa merchandise, holiday sweets, festive workshops and visits with Black Santa and Mrs. C. Store...
Cost: Costs vary
Where:
Jack London Square
54 Washington St.
Oakland, CA 94607
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Telephone: 510-645-9292
Website »
Tea sandwiches, scones and a kid-friendly buffet and dessert buffet are on the menu for this annual tea. There will be balloons, face painting, a nutcracker and cookie decorating, plus visits...
Cost: $80, $75 with unwrapped toy donation
Where:
Intercontinental Mark Hopkins
999 California St.
San Francisco, CA
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Telephone: 415-616-6941
Website »
Sing-along hosts “Anna” and “Elsa” will be live onstage to guide the crowd in getting ready for the winter season by reliving the magic of Disney’s animated...
Cost: $19
Where:
Montgomery Theater
271 S. Market St.
San Jose, CA
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Get into the holiday spirit by taking a spin out on this rink. 9am-1pm weekdays. 9am-5pm weekends.
Cost: Included with admission: $14.95.
Where:
Bay Area Discovery Museum
557 McReynolds Road
Sausalito, CA
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Telephone: 415-339-3900
Website »
In this annual tradition, children dine on hot chocolate and teddy bear cookies and sandwiches while being entertained by an elf and a giant teddy bear. Each child receives a teddy bear gift and...
Cost: $130
Where:
Ritz-Carlton Hotel
600 Stockton St.
San Francisco, CA
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Telephone: 415-296-7465
Website »
Taste the special Filoli holiday blend and enjoy finger sandwiches, scones and holiday treats. Check websites for days and times.
Cost: $75
Where:
Filoli
86 Cañada Road
Woodside, CA
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Telephone: 650-364-8300
Website »
The pop culture phenomenon School House Rock comes to the stage! Featuring the classic songs of the Emmy-Award winning series, including Just a Bill, Conjunction Junction,...
Cost: $12-14
Where:
Palo Alto Children's Theatre
1305 Middlefield Road
Palo Alto, CA
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Walk through this two-story gingerbread house to a tea with holiday entertainment. Check website for times.
Cost: $119, $89 under 12
Where:
Laurel Court Restaurant
Fairmont Hotel
950 Mason St.
San Francisco, CA
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Telephone: 877-979-9608
Website »
This family show features colorful giant puppets and is inspired by Eric Carle’s stories Dream Snow, Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See and A Very Hungry Caterpillar. Recommended for...
Cost: $28 adults, $24 children
Where:
Children's Creativity Museum
221 4th St.
San Francisco, CA
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Telephone: 510-296-4433
Website »
Great America celebrates all things winter with this month-long celebration. Ice skate in front of the iconic carousel, enjoy magnificent light displays, take a walk through Santa’s workshop...
Cost: $26 and up
Where:
Great America
4701 Great America Parkway
Santa Clara, CA
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Grab your flamingo and tumble into Wonderland: Alice’s Rock and Roll Adventure, a Bay Area Children’s Theatre production for ages 5-12. Weekends, Nov. 17-Jan. 6.. Show...
Cost: $28 adults, $24 ages 2-14
Where:
BACT’s Berkeley Theatre Center
2055 Center St.
Berkeley, CA 94704
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Telephone: 510-296-4433
Website »
The first Nutcracker in the United States premiered in San Francisco in 1944. This favorite holiday production features snowflakes, dancing flowers and a little girl who dreams about a whole new...
Cost: $39-420
Where:
War Memorial Opera House
301 Van Ness Ave.
San Francisco, CA
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Telephone: 415-865-2000
Website »
Combine and design with nature’s loose parts in Bill’s Backyard to take part in an ever-changing collaborative art project. Meet the artist, Zach Pine, on Nov. 24, Dec. 14, Dec. 29-30...
Cost: adults: $15; children: $15; seniors: $14; infants and members are free.
Where:
Children’s Discovery Museum of San Jose
180 Woz Way
San Jose, CA 95110
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Shen Yun is dedicated to reviving 5,000 years of divinely inspired civilization by bringing its profound spirit to life on stage with unrivaled artistic mastery. Shen Yun combines...
Cost: $80 and up
Where:
Center for the Performing Arts
255 Almaden Blvd.
San Jose, CA
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A three-dimensional yearbook-style exhibition explores what it has meant to be a LGHS Wildcat over the course of the school's 100 years+ history. Visitors don’t have to be a graduate or...
Cost: $6-10, under 18 FREE
Where:
New Museum Los Gatos | NUMU
106 E. Main St.
Los Gatos, CA 95030
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Telephone: 408-354-2646
Website »
This show is set to holiday tunes and features an array of dance styles including classical ballet, tap, jazz and swing. A highlight is Santa Baby featuring a 42-foot-long feather boa.
Cost: $25-89
Where:
Yerba Buena Center for the Arts
700 Howard St.
San Francisco, CA
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Telephone: 415-912-1899
Website »
The San Jose Nutcracker takes place in San Jose at the turn of the last century. Presented in partnership with History San Jose, and featuring the voices of Ragazzi Premiere singers, it tells the...
Cost: $19 and up
Where:
SJSU Hammer Theatre Center
101 Paseo De San Antonio
San Jose, CA
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The magical world of storytelling mechanical sculptures known as automata returns to the Exploratorium for the third year in a row. Watch these miniature dramas unfold while observing the low-tech...
Cost: $29.95 adults, $19.95 ages 4-12, under 4 FREE
Where:
Pier 15
Embarcadero at Green Street
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-528-4444
Website »
Travel through the Land of the Snowflakes and on to the Kingdom of Sweets as the Alameda Civic Ballet presents this journey of Clara and the Nutcracker Prince. Fri., Dec. 21: 7pm Sat.,...
Cost: $34-38 adults, $24-28 youth under age 18
Where:
Castro Valley Center for the Arts
19501 Redwood Road
Castro Valley, CA 94546
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Telephone: 510-337-1929
Website »
Inspired in part of the adventurous spirit of street sports, this show combines acrobatics and music while exploring how technology often isolates people from one another than freeing them.
Cost: $54-45
Where:
AT&T Park
24 Willie Mays Plaza
San Francisco, CA
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Telephone: 877-924-7783
Website »
t’s a concert. It’s a Circus. It’s an inspiration. Weaving the wisdom of beloved Persian poet Hafiz into their rich tapestry of unique harmonies, award-winning...
Cost: $22-75
Where:
Dance Mission Theater
3316 24th St.
San Francisco, CA
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Telephone: (800) 838-3006
Website »
This show features 17 hip hop artists from The Tribe and Poise’n. Instead of going to Candy Land in her dreams, Clara goes to Hip Hop Land.
Cost: Call for prices
Where:
Fox Theatre
2215 Broadway
Redwood City, CA
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Telephone: 650-369-7770
Website »
When a storm hits her farm, Dorothy and her dog are swept over the rainbow to a magical land. Nov. 9-Dec. 23 1pm, 2pm and 7pm
Cost: $20-40
Where:
The Julia Morgan Theater
2640 College Ave.
Berkeley, CA 94704
View map »
Telephone: 510-845-8542, ext. 351
Website »
This long-running musical parody features iconic holiday characters like Christmas King. Louis, Mr. Peanut Santa and a chorus of tap-dancing Christmas trees. Expect spoofs of pop culture and...
Cost: $30-155
Where:
Club Fugazi
678 Beach Blanket Blvd.
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-421-4222
Website »
This full-length holiday ballet features 125 costumed characters.
Cost: Call for prices
Where:
Fox Theatre
2215 Broadway
Redwood City, CA
View map »
Telephone: 650-369-7770
Website »
Bay Area artists Monica Canilao and Xara Thustra collaborate for their first large-scale exhibition that explores feminist and anti-capitalist themes and challenges viewers to step back and...
Cost: Admission $8-10, children under 5 FREE
Where:
Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History
705 Front St.
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
View map »
Telephone: 831-429-1964
Website »
The Tilden Park Carousel becomes a winter wonderland with Santa, nutcrackers, holiday music and more. 5-8pm Mon-Thu. 11am-8pm Fri.-Sun.
Cost: $2 per ride
Where:
Tilden Park Merry Go Round
Central Park Drive and Lake Anza Road
Berkeley, CA 94708
View map »
Telephone: 510-559-1004
Website »
This production features a cast of dozens, gorgeous costumes and spooky ghosts.
Cost: $15-200
Where:
A.C.T.’s Geary Theater
415 Geary Street
San Francisco , CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-749- 2228
Website »
This Bay Area circus celebrates diversity and color and features aerialists, acrobats, jugglers, high wire artists, family foot jugglers, clowns and more. Shows are Thu-Sun. Check website for times.
Cost: $39-150
Where:
Near Mersea Restaurant
699 Avenue of the Palms
Treasure Island
San Francisco, CA
View map »
Telephone: 415-480-4239
Website »
Enjoy a free family-friendly creative activity this holiday season at the Stanford Shopping Center and be a part of history! Stop by one of the...
CURIODYSSEY’S ILLUMINODYSSEY A WINTER LIGHT EXPERIENCE FOR KIDS November 2 - January 6 | 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. November 2, December 7,...
WHAT: Bayfair Center invites children and their families to visit with Santa Claus to share their wish lists and all the magic of the holiday...
Celebrate the winter holidays of many cultures at Children's Fairyland: Christmas, Chanukah, Kwanzaa, Las Posadas, Diwali, and Chinese New...
Stressed on finals week? Mitchell Park Library has you covered. You can study in the library, or drop in for snacks and emotional support. There...
Apres, an elegant outdoor lounge, emulates a cozy mountainside retreat with apres-ski cuisine and drinks. There will be snow fall every hour...
Drive through a 1.5-mile-long annual holiday lights display in Vasona Lake County Park to see electric dinosaurs and penguins, Santa shooting hoops...
The world premiere exhibition by internationally-acclaimed artist Bruce Munro, opens this Sunday, October 28, at Montalvo Arts Center,...
December 14-23, Fridays & Saturdays 7:30pm, Saturdays & Sundays 2pm Based on one of the most popular Disney movies of all time, Disney...
Come to a family skating session each Tuesday evening for all ages to practice their moves on the ice at a special rate. There will be no...
Taste the special Filoli holiday blend and enjoy finger sandwiches, scones and holiday treats. Check websites for days and times.
Walk through this two-story gingerbread house to a tea with holiday entertainment. Check website for times.
Inspired in part of the adventurous spirit of street sports, this show combines acrobatics and music while exploring how technology often...
Get into the holiday spirit by taking a spin out on this rink. 9am-1pm weekdays. 9am-5pm weekends.
Make friends as you explore the importance of images, sounds, and graphics while creating your own animated projects.
This long-running musical parody features iconic holiday characters like Christmas King. Louis, Mr. Peanut Santa and a chorus of tap-dancing...
Tea sandwiches, scones and a kid-friendly buffet and dessert buffet are on the menu for this annual tea. There will be balloons, face painting,...
This production features a cast of dozens, gorgeous costumes and spooky ghosts.
This Bay Area circus celebrates diversity and color and features aerialists, acrobats, jugglers, high wire artists, family foot jugglers, clowns...
The magical world of storytelling mechanical sculptures known as automata returns to the Exploratorium for the third year in a row. Watch these...
