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While Thanksgiving is still a couple of weeks away, holiday preparations are in full swing around the Peninsula. Annual happenings like Holidays at Filoli and San Mateo on Ice, the outdoor ice rink at the city’s Central Park, kick off this week, with a flurry of festivities to follow in the days to come.
For those who love the musical and performing arts traditions that accompany the holidays, there are multiple productions of “The Nutcracker” plus Smuin Contemporary Ballet’s Christmas Ballet and concerts from Latin music legend Jose Feliciano (the “Feliz Navidad” hitmaker), Hanukkah-themed shows by a cappella vocal band Six13 and more.
Shopping opportunities abound at markets and holiday shows featuring locally made wares and gifts, including food, decor and artwork. Tree-lighting ceremonies will light up the night, making spirits (and dark skies) bright. And find Santa Claus popping up for photo opps with families and pets. All that and more are in store for the 2024 holiday season – here’s how and where to celebrate.
Festivals, tree lightings and special events
Hillsdale Shopping Center Holiday Events The San Mateo shopping center will host its tree-lighting ceremony and Santa’s arrival Nov. 15 with aerialists and costumed characters from Circosphere. Other events include pictures with Santa starting Nov. 15, pet photos with Santa every Sunday and Wednesday starting Nov. 17, gingerbread house decorating workshops beginning Nov. 18 and a holiday pop-up store and pet adoption center beginning Nov. 18. Get a sneak peek of the Great Dickens Christmas Fair Dec. 6.
The tree-lighting ceremony is Nov. 15 at 6:30 p.m., free. Photos with Santa Nov. 15-Dec. 24, pet photos with Santa Sundays and Wednesdays Nov. 17-Dec. 11; digital photo packages start at $25. Peninsula Humane Society and SPCA holiday pop-up store and adoption center Nov. 18-Dec. 24; free admission. Gingerbread house decorating workshops Nov. 18-Dec. 24, $45 per house (up to two kids). Open daily during mall hours, reservations are encouraged at kathykakes.com. Dickens Fair sneak peek Dec. 6 from 6-8 p.m., free. hillsdale.com/events.
Holidays at Filoli The Filoli estate’s gardens and historic mansion are decorated for the holidays. Activities include Bottomless bubbles and live piano music in the Ballroom Signature Lounge; visits with Santa; private fire pit rentals with warm drinks and wine on the terrace; holiday tea in the Garden House, behind-the-scenes house tours, wreath-making workshops and a New Year’s Day “hair of the dog” hike. The event kicks off with a holiday preview night on Nov. 15.
Open daily, Nov. 16-Jan. 12, 10 a.m.-9 p.m., (closed Nov. 28 and Dec. 24-25) at Filoli, 86 Cañada Road, Woodside. Reservations are required; ticket prices vary. Fire pit rentals are $750 for up to eight guests. filoli.org.
IlluminOdyssey CuriOdyssey hosts a winter light display inspired by the science of light. The four-level Redwood Hall at the science museum and zoo will transform into a glowing forest of interactive exhibits and kid-friendly glowing art.
Open Tuesday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (closed Nov. 28, Dec. 24-25 and Jan. 1) Nov. 16-Jan. 26 at CuriOdyssey, 1651 Coyote Point Drive, San Mateo. Free with museum admission of $17.95-$21.95 (plus $6 park entrance fee). curiodyssey.org.
Winter Lodge Palo Alto’s outdoor ice skating rink is open for public skating.
Open daily, times vary (closed Nov. 28, Dec. 24-25 and Jan. 1); through April 13 at Winter Lodge, 3009 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto. Admission is $19 per person and skate rental is $6 per person. Public skating tickets must be purchased online in advance. winterlodge.com/public-skating.
Santa at Stanford Shopping Center Take a photo with Santa and enjoy a variety of holiday festivities at Stanford Shopping Center. The center also hosts a breakfast with Santa Dec. 7, with tasty treats and special guests.
Breakfast with Santa Dec. 7, 9-11 a.m. RSVP requested to breakfastwithsanta-stanfordsho.splashthat.com. Photos available now through Dec. 24, times vary. Photo packages are $19.99-$39.99. For Santa photos, visit whereissanta.com. Both events take place at Stanford Shopping Center, 660 Stanford Shopping Center, Palo Alto.
San Mateo on Ice Go ice skating in San Mateo’s Central Park via public skate sessions, private tents for up to 40 people or private ice sessions. Free skating and skate rentals will be offered on three separate days. Tickets must be purchased online.
Nov. 15-Jan. 12, hours vary, Central Park, 50 E. 5th Ave., San Mateo. Public skate sessions start at $18, private tents are $150; call to book private ice sessions. Free community skate days Nov. 18, Dec. 10 and Dec. 17. Ages 4 and up. onicerinks.com.
Ernie’s Trains John Bianco, Ernie’s son, will continue the tradition of running his model trains from Thanksgiving through Dec. 25. The engines and cars change daily.
Weather permitting, five tracks will run trains every evening except Mondays through Dec. 25 at 2387 Adele, Mountain View, from 6:30 to about 9 p.m.
Peace & Social Justice Harvest Fair Peninsula Peace & Justice Center and First Presbyterian Church host an event featuring local activist groups offering unique gifts and providing information on their work. Free food and beverages.
Nov. 17, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church, 1140 Cowper St., Palo Alto. peaceandjustice.org/harvest-fair-2024.
Los Altos History Museum Catch the Spirit The museum hosts a celebration with live choral music from choral group Schola Cantorum and the Volare Choir from Los Altos High School, and a sing-along around the piano with Carole Cameron, home-baked treats and unique boutique shopping. All proceeds support the Museum’s exhibitions and programs.
Nov. 20, noon-4 p.m., at Los Altos History Museum, 51 S. San Antonio Road, Los Altos. losaltoshistory.org/events.
Downtown San Carlos Holiday Events Find holiday carolers and extended shopping hours on select Thursdays starting Nov. 21 in downtown San Carlos. The 14th annual Night of Holiday Lights returns to downtown San Carlos, featuring carolers, kids’ activities, arts and crafts, musical performances and holiday goodies, drinks and decorations.
Thursday Night Lights, Nov. 21, Dec. 5, 12, 19, 5-8 p.m., Laurel Street and San Carlos Avenue, San Carlos. Night of Holiday Lights, Dec. 6, 5-8:30 p.m., Laurel Street from San Carlos Avenue to Cherry Street, San Carlos. tinyurl.com/holidayssancarlos.
Après Village and Skate Rink Skate on an alpine-themed synthetic skate rink at the Four Seasons Hotel Silicon Valley at East Palo Alto, complete with chalets for groups. This year’s menu of snacks and treats features an Italian mountain lodge theme.
Open daily, Nov. 22-Jan. 7, 4-9:30 p.m., at Four Seasons Hotel Silicon Valley at East Palo Alto, 2050 University Ave., East Palo Alto. $95 per person (includes set menu of four shared dishes and a dessert) or $150-$250 chalet rentals. For reservations, visit fourseasons.com/siliconvalley/apres-village.
Stanford Theatre The movie theater’s holiday schedule kicks off with “The Wizard of Oz” Nov. 22-24 and Nov. 29-Dec. 1. The program also offers double features: the 1964 version of “Mary Poppins” and “Sitting Pretty” Dec. 6-8 and Dec. 13-15 and “The Shop Around the Corner” and “Miracle on 34th Street” Dec. 20-22. The schedule wraps up with a Peninsula holiday tradition: two Dec. 24 screenings of “It’s a Wonderful Life.”
Thursdays-Sundays, screening times vary, Nov. 22-Dec. 22; two screenings of “It’s a Wonderful Life” take place on Dec. 24, 4 and 9 p.m., at the Stanford Theatre, 221 University Ave., Palo Alto. $5-$7. Advance ticket sales for “It’s a Wonderful Life” start on Dec. 7. stanfordtheatre.org.
The Great Dickens Christmas Fair Over 4 acres of the Cow Palace will be transformed into Victorian London, complete with pubs, dance parties, theaters and holiday shops. New experiences include port, chocolate and Champagne tastings, a corsetiere fitting experience with Dark Garden and a pub crawl with Jekyll and Hyde.
Nov. 23-Dec. 22, hours vary, Cow Palace Arena & Event Center, 2600 Geneva Ave., Daly City. General admission between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. is $48.74 for adults, $28.10 for kids 5-12 years old. Twilight admission 3-6 p.m. is $33.26 for adults, $20.88 for kids 5-12. Children under 5 free. Costs vary for new experiences, check website for details. dickensfair.com.
Friendsgiving The city of Palo Alto and Magical Bridge host a celebration of kindness and culture that aims to make connections across generations. The event features activities curated by Kafenia Peace Collective and food from favorite Palo Alto restaurants including Evvia, Redwood Grill, Ada’s Cafe, iTalico and others.
Nov. 23, 4:30-7:30 p.m., at Lucie Stern Community Center, 1305 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto. $20 per person. cityofpaloalto.org.
South San Francisco Holiday Events Join a Thanksgiving 5K fun run Nov. 23; come early for a ribbon cutting for new amenities at Oyster Point Marina Park. Santa will stop by City Hall on Dec. 7. Join a wreath-making workshop Dec. 14, with a family-friendly morning session and an adults-only afternoon session with wine. Materials provided; optional to bring your own work gloves and pruners.
Thanksgiving 5K Fun Run is Nov. 23, 9-11:30 a.m. at Oyster Point Marina Park, 95 Harbor Master Road. Registration is $10 for adults, $6 for ages 13-17 and free for ages 12 and under. Santa visit is Dec. 7 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at City Hall, 400 Grand Ave., free. Wreath workshop is Dec. 14, 9:30 a.m.-noon or 1-3:30 p.m. at the Joseph A. Fernekes Recreation Building, 781 Tennis Drive. $30 preregistration, $35 or $40 day of event. ssf.net/Departments/Parks-Recreation/Events.
Downtown Los Altos Holiday Events The annual Festival of Lights Parade kicks off the season in downtown Los Altos with floats, marching bands and more. The Los Altos Village Association brings two holiday markets to town featuring holiday decor, baked goods, chocolate and more (Dec. 5 and 12). The association also holds a holiday tree lighting with performances from local students, followed by the arrival of Santa Claus, who will be available for pictures (bring your own camera). Santa will be on hand for photos again the following day at the Enchante hotel.
Also, during the month of December, the Trim-A-Tree event places holiday trees decorated by local residents and businesses in the downtown area.
Parade takes place Dec. 1, 6 p.m., starting at First and State streets in downtown Los Altos. Find parade info at losaltosparade.org. Holiday markets are held Dec. 5 and 12, 4-8 p.m., at State Street Market, 170 State St., Los Altos. Holiday tree celebration Dec. 6, 6-8 p.m., at Veterans Community Plaza, Main and State streets, Los Altos. Santa photos Dec. 7, 2-4 p.m., at Enchante Boutique Hotel, 1 Main St., Los Altos. downtownlosaltos.org/events.
BayLUG Holiday Show The Bay Area LEGO User Group and BayLTC, the Bay Area L-Gauge Train Club, feature their annual holiday display of miniature scenes and electric trains built from Lego bricks. This year’s theme is “Once Upon a Time.”
Open Saturdays-Sundays, 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Dec. 7-Jan. 11 at the Museum of American Heritage, 351 Homer Ave., Palo Alto. $4 per person. baylug.org.
Gamble Garden The historic estate and garden hosts a three-day Winter Festival that includes a grand opening party Dec. 5, a tree-lighting ceremony, a special holiday night with Santa (Dec. 6); a holiday ballet performance; crafts for kids; stilt walkers; holiday teas, music and a festive marketplace featuring vendors and local artisans.
During December, Gamble Garden will also host holiday luncheons, a wreath-making workshop and a tour of the home and its gardens.
Winter Festival takes place Dec. 5-7, times vary; luncheons are held Dec. 10-14, noon-2 p.m.,; wreath workshops Dec. 12, 6-8 p.m. and Dec. 14, 2-4p.m.; house and garden tour Dec. 17, 1:30 p.m. All events take place at Gamble Garden, 1431 Waverley St., Palo Alto. Ticket prices vary by event. gamblegarden.org.
City of Menlo Park Light Up the Season Menlo Park holds its annual tree lighting event, with a winter wonderland theme, featuring family-friendly entertainment, photo opportunities, performances by Menlo Park youth and free hot cocoa. Rain or shine.
Dec. 6, 5:30-7 p.m., at Fremont Park, University Drive at Santa Cruz Avenue, Menlo Park. Free admission. menlopark.gov.
City of Palo Alto Tree Lighting This holiday season kickoff features live music and carols, plus winter treats. Hosted by Mayor Greer Stone.
Dec. 6, 5:30-7 p.m., at Lytton Plaza, University Avenue and Emerson Street, Palo Alto. Also offered virtually. cityofpaloalto.org.
City of Burlingame Tree Lighting Watch the tree lighting at City Hall, followed by Winterfest on Burlingame Avenue with train rides for kids and photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Dec. 6, 5-8 p.m., tree lighting at City Hall, 501 Primrose Road, Burlingame, Winterfest on Burlingame Avenue, free. burlingame.org/1139/Holiday-Tree-Lighting.
Cupertino Holiday Events Attend the tree lighting Dec. 7 for pictures with Santa, community performances, hot cocoa and more. Eat pancakes, enjoy crafts and take a picture with Santa at breakfast with Santa Dec. 7. Deaf and hard-of-hearing children and their families are invited Dec. 14 to spend time with Signing Santa, who only communicates using sign language. Santa and his elf will also visit Cupertino homes on select days in December.
Tree lighting is Dec. 7, 5-8 p.m., Main Street, free. Breakfast with Santa is Dec. 7, 45-minute slots from 8:30 to 11:15 a.m., Quinlan Community Center, 10185 N. Stelling Road. Residents $18, nonresidents $22. Signing Santa is from 2 to 4 p.m. Dec. 14 at Quinlan Community Center, register online for cost info. Santa visits Dec. 13-15, 20-22, times vary, $55 per time slot. tinyurl.com/cupertinoholidayevents.
Belmont Holiday Events The Winter Wonderland Workshop Dec. 7 will include ornament designing, decorating holiday cookies and writing letters to Santa for kids ages 5-12. Children can mail a letter to Santa’s mailbox (30 Twin Pines Lane) by Dec. 9 to get a free, personalized response. Santa will appear at Belmont Fire Station 14 on Dec. 12, with a separate session for youth with disabilities and kids who would benefit from a more sensory-friendly environment. Drop the kids off for dinner, games and a movie Dec. 13 (ages 5-12).
Winter Wonderland Workshop is 9 a.m.-noon Dec. 7 at the Twin Pines Lodge, 40 Twin Pines Lane, Belmont, register online for cost info. Santa at the Firehouse is Dec. 12, 5-5:30 p.m. for Sensory Santa at the Firehouse, 5:30-7:30 p.m. traditional Santa visit, 911 Granada St., free. Friday Night Hangout is Dec. 13 from 6-9:30 p.m. at the Twin Pines Senior & Community Center, 20 Twin Pines Lane, register online for cost info. tinyurl.com/belmontholidayevents.
Barn Lighting Take a photo with Santa and enjoy cookies, hot cider and/or wine tasting. Kids can take part in seasonal games, craft tables, face-painting, pony rides and a petting zoo at the historic Westwind Community Barn. The event concludes with a countdown to the barn lighting at 5 p.m.
Dec. 7, 2-5 p.m., at Westwind Community Barn, 27210 Altamont Road, Los Altos Hills. losaltoshills.ca.gov.
Christmas Crèche Exhibit The Menlo Park, Los Altos and Saratoga stakes of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints host an exhibit of Christmas nativity scenes, with special events, such as children’s storytimes, puppet shows, artist talks and live music taking place each day.
Dec. 7-11, 12:30-8:30 p.m., at 3865 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto. christmascreche.org.
Holiday Train Heading south from San Francisco, Caltrain’s festive Holiday Train stops at select stations along the Peninsula, with lights, entertainment and more. Visitors are encouraged to donate a new, unwrapped toy for the annual toy drive.
Dec. 7-8, train stops at different stations each day. For a schedule, visit caltrain.com/holidaytrain.
Hometown Holidays Redwood City Downtown Business Group’s 18th annual event includes photos with Santa, carnival rides, food and drink, entertainment, local vendors and community groups, concluding with a parade. Rain or shine.
Dec. 7, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., at Courthouse Square, Redwood City. redwoodcitydowntown.com.
Teddy Bear Tea Portola Valley Theatre Conservatory hosts a family-friendly event with cookie decorating, crafts, performances, a photo booth and a special surprise.
Dec. 7, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Portola Valley Theatre Conservatory, 945 Portola Road, Portola Valley. Tickets are $65 for two people/$85 for three/$100 for four/$120 for five/$150 for six/$30 each additional ticket. pvtc-ca.org.
Redwood City Tamalada Chef Steve Cortez of S&C Culinary leads a tamalada, a social gathering to make tamales ahead of the holidays. The event includes a sit-down tamale lunch. Guests will also make tamales to steam at home. Vegan option upon request.
Dec 7, 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., at Highlands Community Club at 1665 Fernside St., Redwood City. $86.14 per person. eventbrite.com.
Springline Holiday Extravaganza An event with live music, food, festive cocktails and hot chocolate, a snow playground with real snow, complimentary photos with Santa, screenings of “The Grinch” and “The Santa Clause” and ornament-making.
Dec. 7, 4-9 p.m., at Springline Menlo Park,1300 El Camino Real, Menlo Park. Free; registration requested. springline.com.
West Bay Model Railroad Association The group holds an open house on Dec. 7, with club members running HO-gauge trains. The following day, the group will be open from early afternoon until the evening arrival of the Caltrain Holiday Train at the Menlo Park station.
Dec. 7, 1-4 p.m. and Dec. 8 from 1 until about 8:05 p.m. at south side of Menlo Park Caltrain station, 1090 Merrill St., Menlo Park. Admission is free, donations are appreciated. westbaylines@gmail.com.
San Mateo Winter Wonderland Enjoy a family-friendly winter-themed event, complete with crafts, holiday music, cookie decorating and photo opps.
Dec. 7, 4-6 p.m., at Central Recreation Center, Central Park, 50 E. 5th Ave., San Mateo, free. cityofsanmateo.org/3956/Winter-Wonderland.
City of Mountain View Tree Lighting The city of Mountain View celebrates the winter season with an event featuring performances by local groups, tributes to multicultural traditions, a train ride, games and crafts, the lighting of the community tree, an appearance from Santa, storytime with Mrs. Claus and refreshments. Bring a new, unwrapped toy or canned food to donate to Cops that Care and CSA.
Dec. 9, 5:30-8 p.m., at Civic Center Plaza, 500 Castro St., Mountain View, mountainview.gov.
Atherton Hometown Holiday and Tree Lighting The town of Atherton hosts a celebration and tree lighting.
Dec. 13, 4-8:30 p.m., at Atherton Town Center, 80 Fair Oaks Lane, 80 Fair Oaks Lane, Atherton, ci.atherton.ca.us.
Holiday Lights Ride Silicon Valley Bicycle Coalition hosts a bike ride through Mountain View and Palo Alto to see holiday lights. The ride will be a 13-mile loop from Mountain View to Christmas Tree Lane in Palo Alto.
Dec. 14, 5:15 p.m., meet at the Mountain View Transit Center, 200 W Evelyn Ave., Mountain View. Free; registration encouraged. eventbrite.com.
Fantasy of Lights Drive through 1.5 miles of large animated holiday decorations while listening to holiday music on the car radio. The walk-thru version has already sold out.
Dec. 10-Jan. 5 (closed Dec. 25, Dec. 31 and Jan. 1), 6-10 p.m., Vasona Lake County Park, 333 Blossom Hill Road, Los Gatos. Admission starts at $32.34 for a regular vehicle with up to 12 passengers. parks.santaclaracounty.gov/FantasyofLights/drivethru.
Sunnyvale Holiday Events Sunnyvale’s slate of festivities includes breakfast with Santa, the Holiday Storywalk, the Sunnyvale Gingerbread Village, where you can contribute your own gingerbread house for display in the library, and a screening of “The Grinch.”
Breakfast with Santa is Dec. 7 at 8:30 a.m. at the Senior Center Orchard Pavilion, 550 E. Remington Drive, $12 each (ages 3 and up). Sign up to make a gingerbread village by emailing winnielam@gmail.com; maximum one per household, kits not provided. Holiday Storywalk is Dec. 7 from 9:30-11:30 a.m. at the Sunnyvale Community Center, 550 E. Remington Drive, free. Screening of “The Grinch” is Dec. 19 at 7 p.m. at the Sunnyvale Theatre, 550 E. Remington Drive, free (reserve tickets online). tinyurl.com/sunnyvaleholidayevents.
Half Moon Bay Holiday Events This year, Half Moon Bay is hosting four Nights of Lights starting Nov. 29 with the city’s tree-lighting ceremony and a community memorial. The lighted parade and block party with Santa Claus is set for Dec. 6, followed by an ugly sweater party and contest Dec. 13 and a spaghetti feed with a screening of “Elf” Dec. 20.
Nights of Lights events are 6-8 p.m. Nov. 29 and Dec. 6, 13 and 20. Nov. 29 and Dec. 6 events are at Mac Dutra Plaza, 504 Main St., ugly sweater party is Dec. 13 on Main Street and “Elf” and spaghetti feed are Dec. 20 at Jupiter & Main, 432-B. Main St. Free admission. tinyurl.com/hmbholidayevents.
Downtown Campbell Holiday Events Events include photos with Santa or holiday tea at the Ainsley House, Storytime with Santa and Carol of Lights, a winter festival with a petting zoo, donkey rides, carolers and more.
Photos with Santa at the Ainsley House is Nov. 23 from 9 a.m. to noon, 300 Grant St., $20 per family, reserve tickets at campbellmuseums.com. Ainsley House Holiday Tea and Tour is Dec. 6-8 and Dec. 13-15, noon-2 p.m., 300 Grant St., $65 each. Reservations required at campbellmuseums.com. Storytime with Santa is Dec. 6 at 6:30-7 p.m. for kids under 2 and 7-8:30 p.m. for kids 2-12 years old, Dec. 8 from 2:30-4 p.m. for children 2-12 years old. Tickets are $16-$26 per child and parents or guardians. Carol of Lights is Dec. 7, 4-7 p.m. at E. Campbell Avenue and N. 1st St., free. Find complete events list at downtowncampbell.com/tags/holiday-events.
Lighted Boat Festival Pillar Point Harbor hosts its annual holiday celebration with decorated boats, food trucks, kids’ crafts, an appearance from Santa, live music and a drone show to cap off the day. Come early for a holiday paddle out, beer and wine garden and a chili cook-off.
Dec. 14, 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Pillar Point Harbor, 1 Johnson Pier, El Granada. Free admission, chili cook-off tasting tickets are $15 each, cook-off team registration is $100. visithalfmoonbay.org/events/lighted-boat-festival.
Markets and galleries
Pacific Art League The Palo Alto-based art institution marks its 103rd anniversary with an exhibition and fundraising sale.
An opening reception takes place Nov. 15, 5:30-8 p.m. The show runs through Jan. 14 at Pacific Art League, 668 Ramona St., Palo Alto. pacificartleague.org.
Gallery House “In the Moment,” a group show in a variety of media by the cooperative gallery’s member artists.
Through Jan. 5 at Gallery House. 826 Santa Cruz Ave., Menlo Park. galleryhouse.art.
The Main Gallery The co-op gallery presents “Celebrations,” a group show highlighting works by its member artists in a variety of media.
Through Dec. 24. A reception takes place Dec. 14, 5–7 p.m., at 883 Santa Cruz Ave., Suite 1, Menlo Park. themaingallery.org.
Domenico Holiday Boutique The San Carlos winery’s annual boutique and craft fair will feature handcrafted items from local small businesses, plus a full bar, wines and quick bites for sale. On-site restaurant Osteria will offer full-service dining.
Nov. 19, 5:30-9 p.m., Domenico Winery, 1697 Industrial Road, San Carlos. Free admission. tinyurl.com/domenicoboutique.
Holiday Craft Faire Shop for handmade gifts at Belmont’s annual fair. Refreshments will be served.
Nov. 23, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Twin Pines Senior & Community Center, 20 Twin Pines Lane, Belmont. Free admission. tinyurl.com/holidaycraftfaire.
Saporito Pasta Holiday Market The Redwood City pasta maker will be selling fresh pasta, sauces, Italian desserts, coffee and more. Local cheese truck Large Marge will have more Italian goodies for sale; tamales, coffee, spices and hot sauce will be available for purchase as well (vendors vary depending on date).
Nov. 23, Dec. 7 and Dec. 14, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Saporito Pasta, 1020 Hansen Way, Redwood City, free admission. instagram.com/saporitopasta.
Head West Marketplace The pop-up marketplace, which appeared in downtown Los Altos monthly through the end of October, moves to downtown San Mateo the fourth Sundays in November and December.
Nov. 24 and Dec. 22, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., 1st Avenue to 3rd Avenue, San Mateo, free admission. headwestmarketplace.com/southbstreet.
Art on the Square Holiday Show Visitors can shop for gifts and stocking stuffers made by nearly 30 local artists working in a variety of media, including jewelry, handmade clothing, accessories, ceramics and prints.
Nov. 23, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., at San Mateo County History Museum, 2200 Broadway, Redwood City. Admission is free (museum admission is free on the day of the show). artonthesquarerwc.com.
Holiday Boutique Dozens of vendors will sell their handcrafted gifts and goods at this one-day event in San Bruno.
Nov. 30, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., San Bruno Senior Center, 1555 Crystal Springs Road, San Bruno, free admission. sanbruno.ca.gov/936/Holiday-Boutique.
Sip & Shop Humble Sea Brewing & Kitchen in Pacifica hosts Small Business Saturday shopping in its taproom.
Nov. 30, noon-5 p.m., Humble Sea Brewing Company, 5560 Pacific Coast Highway, Pacifica. instagram.com/humblesea.pacifica/?hl=en.
Gallery 9 Los Altos “Celebrations of Light” holiday group show of works in a variety of media by the gallery’s 26 member artists.
Open during the month of December at Gallery 9, 43 Main St., Los Altos. gallery9losaltos.com.
Christmas at Kohl Holiday Boutique The Kohl Mansion will be decked out with lights, Christmas trees and garlands for the annual holiday boutique, featuring over 65 vendors selling jewelry, clothing and holiday decorations. Docents will also give a presentation about the history of Kohl Mansion at 6:30 p.m. Beverages and light snacks will be sold on-site.
Dec. 4, 5-9 p.m. at Kohl Mansion, 2750 Adeline Drive, Burlingame. Tickets are $15 each. mercyhsb.com/about/christmas-at-kohl.
Christmas at Our House St. Francis High School hosts a gift boutique with artisans selling gourmet foods, vintage and specialty gift items and holiday decor. The event also offers a student art showcase, live entertainment, a holiday tea and an interactive advent experience. The event benefits the Saint Francis Fund. New for this year is Christmas in the Quad on Dec. 6, with student-led activity stations, entertainment and decor throughout the school’s quad. Guests can enjoy complimentary hot chocolate and food for purchase.
Dec. 6, 1:30-9 p.m., (boutique) and 5-9 p.m. (Christmas in the Quad), and Dec. 7, 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. at Burns Pavilion, St. Francis High School, 1885 Miramonte Ave., Mountain View. sfhs.com.
Allied Arts Guild Christmas Market Shops and vendors at the guild offer gifts and holiday decor.
Dec. 7, 10 a.m.- 3 p.m., at Allied Arts Guild, 75 Arbor Road, Menlo Park. Admission is free. For more info, call Artisan Shop at 650.325.2450 or visit alliedartsguild.org.
Art Center Studio Holiday Sale The Palo Alto Art Center holds its annual sale featuring jewelry, functional and fine art ceramics, paintings, prints and other artwork created by artists working in the Art Center’s studios. The sale raises funds to benefit the artists, studios, and the Palo Alto Art Center Foundation.
Dec. 7, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Palo Alto Art Center, 1313 Newell Road, Palo Alto. (Foundation members-only presale held Dec. 7, 9-11 a.m.). cityofpaloalto.org.
Artifactory Holiday Fair Shop for unique hand-crafted gifts at this fair featuring jewelry, textiles, ceramics, glass, photography, paintings and more by local artists.
Dec. 6-8, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., at Hoover House, 1120 Hopkins Ave., Palo Alto. Artifactoryholidayfair.com.
Burlingame Winter Market Find vendors selling handmade goods over two days of shopping.
Dec. 7-8, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Burlingame Community Center, 850 Burlingame Ave., Burlingame, free admission. burlingame.org/1124/Winter-Market.
Clayroom San Mateo Member’s Holiday Sale Shop handmade pottery, sculptures and decorative art from over 30 local ceramic artisans who are members of Clayroom’s studio.
Dec. 7, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Clayroom San Mateo, 3050 S. Delaware St., San Mateo, free admission. tinyurl.com/clayroomsale.
Christmas Art Fair Head to Alice’s to support local artists selling jewelry, photography, wreaths, pottery and more. Live music and homemade eggnog will also be on hand.
Dec. 11, 3-8 pm., Alice’s Restaurant (back bar), 17288 Skyline Blvd., Woodside, free admission. instagram.com/aliceswoodside.
Tidings, Tinsel + TETRA The Sunnyvale hotel hosts its quarterly Oasis Makers Fair with over 20 small businesses, a pop-up hot chocolate bar, light bites and drinks. Validated parking with Eventbrite ticket while supplies last, complimentary beverage for first 100 arrivals.
Dec. 11, 5-8 p.m., TETRA Hotel, 400 W. Java Drive, Sunnyvale. Free admission. tinyurl.com/oasisfair.
Los Gatos Holiday Market Experience a European-style holiday market set among the redwoods on Main Street with over 100 local and regional artisans. Live music by Phil & Rob, local wine and food trucks Luv’s Brownies, Oaxacan Kitchen, Rafas Hot Dogs and Cousins Maine Lobster (Sunday only). All proceeds benefit local youth and senior nutrition programs.
Dec. 14-15, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Civic Center Lawn, 110 E. Main St., Los Gatos, free admission. lgkiwanisgives.org/los-gatos-holiday-market.
Lumpia Fest Find lumpia and holiday shopping under one roof at the Cow Palace. Perfect for fans of Japanese art, anime, Studio Ghibli and Pokémon. Giveaways for first 500 attendees.
Dec. 14, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Cow Palace Arena & Event Center, 2600 Geneva Ave., Daly City. tinyurl.com/lumpiafest. Tickets start at $5.58 each. Admission will go up to $20 at the door.
German Holiday Market The German International School of Silicon Valley hosts its annual holiday marketplace, with traditional seasonal German treats, mulled wine, and chocolate, wooden ornaments, nutcrackers and other holiday items, plus food and music. Proceeds benefit the school.
Dec. 14, 11 a.m.-9 p.m., at Mountain View Civic Center Plaza, 500 Castro St., Mountain View. Free admission. germanholidaymarket.org.
Hanukkah
Six13 Hanukkah Special Oshman Family JCC presents two Hanukkah-themed shows by Six13, a six-man a cappella vocal band performing a mix of traditional and contemporary Jewish music.
Dec. 15, 4:30 and 6:30 p.m., at Oshman Family JCC, 3921 Fabian Way, Palo Alto. $30-$50. paloaltojcc.org.
Hanukkah Craft Party Families can make their own menorahs, design a personalized dreidel and make unique decorations for the home to enjoy during the eight nights of Hanukkah.
Dec. 15, 3:30 p.m., at Oshman Family JCC, 3921 Fabian Way, Palo Alto. $18.
paloaltojcc.org.
Dance
Pacific Ballet Academy Nutcracker Students of Pacific Ballet Academy perform in the company’s 33rd annual production of the ballet. The company’s dancers will greet audiences as they enter the theater. On Nov. 29, the company presents a sensory- and autism-friendly performance of just Act II of the ballet.
Full performances take place Nov. 29, 6 p.m., Nov. 30, 1 and 6 p.m.; and Dec. 1, 1 p.m.; sensory- and autism-friendly performance at 2 p.m. All shows take place at the Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts, 500 Castro St., Mountain View. Tickets are $28-$34 for full performances; $18 for sensory-friendly performance. tickets.mvcpa.com.
Smuin’s Christmas Ballet Smuin Contemporary Ballet presents its 29th annual holiday touring production bringing together classical ballet and contemporary pieces, set to a variety of holiday-themed music. The 2024 edition includes the premiere of a classical piece by Smuin Artistic Director Amy Seiwert, plus the debuts of two contemporary pieces: company member Brennan Wall’s “Last Christmas” and Smuin alum Rex Wheeler’s “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.”
Dec. 5-6, 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 7, 2 and 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 8, 2 p.m., at Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts, 500 Castro St., Mountain View. $31-$104. smuinballet.org.
Dance Connection Nutcracker The studio presents its 25th annual production, featuring young dancers ages 5 to adults. The company will also stage “Hip-Hop Nutcracker,” offering a modern twist on the holiday ballet.
Nutcracker Dec. 6, 7 p.m., and Dec. 8, 4 p.m.; Hip-Hop Nutcracker Dec. 7, 7 p.m., at Spangenberg Theatre, 780 Arastradero Road, Palo Alto. $28-$45. danceconnectionpaloalto.com.
Ballet America Nutcracker Academy of American Ballet presents its annual production featuring students performing the family-friendly ballet.
Dec. 7, 2 and 6:30 p.m., and Dec. 8, 1:30 and 4 p.m., at Cañada College Theater, 4200 Farm Hill Blvd., Redwood City. Tickets start at $20. americanballet.com/nutcracker.
Dance Magic Nutcracker Dance Magic, a Palo Alto-based school for dancers ages 2 and up, presents its annual production.
Dec. 7, 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m., at Cubberley Community Center Theatre, 4000 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto. dancemagic.org.
Peninsula Lively Arts Nutcracker and Hip-Hop Nutcracker The company presents three different “Nutcracker” productions: “Nutcracker Sweet,” an abridged production of the traditional ballet tailored for young audiences ages 3-6; a full-length traditional production of “The Nutcracker” featuring Peninsula Ballet Theatre’s professional company with students from Peninsula School of the Arts; and “Hip-Hop Nutcracker,” mixing the iconic story and Tchaikovsky’s score with hip-hop dance and featuring a cast of 35 hip-hop dance artists.
“Nutcracker Sweet” Dec. 7-8, 12:30, 2:30 and 4:30 p.m., at Peninsula Lively Arts, 1880 S. Grant St., San Mateo. $30 ages 9 and under/$40 regular admission; classic Nutcracker Dec. 21-22, 2 p.m., at the San Mateo Performing Arts Center, 600 N. Delaware St., San Mateo; $35-$70; Hip-Hop Nutcracker Dec. 21-22, 2 p.m., at the Fox Theatre, 2215 Broadway, Redwood City; $35-$70. peninsulalivelyarts.org.
Western Ballet Nutcracker Western Ballet presents the traditional holiday ballet in a production that lasts 1 ½ hours.
Dec. 13, 7 p.m.; Dec. 14, 1 and 7 p.m.; and Dec. 15, 1 p.m., at the Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts, 500 Castro St., Mountain View. $42-$47. tickets.mvcpa.com.
Ramon Moreno School of Ballet Nutcracker Students of the Ramon Moreno School of Ballet perform a traditional production.
Dec. 14, 1:30 and 7 p.m.; Dec. 15, 1:30 p.m., at Menlo-Atherton Performing Arts Center, 555 Middlefield Road, Atherton. $49.87. ramonmorenoballet.com/nutcracker.
Bayer Ballet’s Snow Queen Bayer Ballet Company presents its annual production of a two-act ballet inspired by a Hans Christian Andersen fairytale about a girl who travels through magical lands to rescue her brother after he’s kidnapped by the Snow Queen.
Dec. 20-21, 7 p.m., and Dec. 22, 1 and 7 p.m., Visual and Performing Arts Center, 21250 Stevens Creek Blvd., Cupertino. Tickets on sale soon. bayerballet.com/onstage.
Concerts
3rdThursday Palo Alto’s free monthly outdoor live music event celebrates the holidays. Its November edition, “ThanksCaring,” takes place on Nov. 21 with three bands performing along California Avenue and themed activities. The event marks the season in December with the theme “Winter Holidays,” taking place Dec. 19 and featuring live music by local artists. Some area merchants and restaurants offer specials or extended hours.
Nov. 21 and Dec. 19, 6-9 p.m., along California Avenue, Palo Alto. Free admission. 3rdthursday.fun
Bay Bells Handbell choir Bay Bells performs a holiday concert that includes favorite children’s songs to classic Christmas carols and Hanukkah tunes. Refreshments provided.
Dec. 7, 7 p.m., Valley Presbyterian Church, 945 Portola Road, Portola Valley. Admission is free; donations appreciated. baybells.org.
Stanford Friends of Music Holiday Musicale The Friends of Music at Stanford present their annual holiday showcase with festive performances by Department of Music ensembles and guests.
Dec 7, 2:30 p.m., at Memorial Church, Stanford. $22-$27. live.stanford.edu.
Azure Family Holiday Show This show offers a free, friendly and engaging performance for families with children and young adults on the Autism spectrum. Azure concerts are approximately one hour in length and family members and caregivers of all ages are welcome to attend.
Dec. 8, 2:30-4:30 p..m., at Campbell Recital Hall, Stanford. Free admission. events.stanford.edu.
Rocky Mountain High Experience: A John Denver Christmas John Denver tribute artist Rick Schuler plays many highlights from the singer-songwriter’s career, including “Sunshine On My Shoulders” and “Take Me Home Country Roads,” along with carols and songs from Denver’s holiday specials, such as “Aspenglow.”
Dec. 8, 1 p.m., at The Fox Theatre, 2221 Broadway St., Redwood City. $76. foxrwc.com.
Kitka’s Wintersongs Women’s vocal ensemble Kitka performs their annual concert celebrating the holidays and winter solstice. This year’s performance is inspired by a traditional Georgian ritual feast in which all present are encouraged to contemplate what uplifts and connects us.
Dec. 8, 4 p.m., at St. Bede’s Church, 2650 Sand Hill Road, Menlo Park. Tickets start at $31.19. kitka.org.
Madrigals Holiday Concert Ladera Community Church hosts its annual holiday concert with the Mountain View High School Madrigals choir. The concert has been a tradition for over 20 years.
Dec. 8, 10:15 a.m., at Ladera Community Church: 3300 Alpine Road, Portola Valley. ladera.org.
Woodside Village Band Winter Concert The band performs a light-hearted program that includes “Sleigh Ride” and “Bugler’s Holiday,” selections from “Moana,” “Little Drummer Boys Bolero,” “A Mariachi Christmas” and more.
Dec. 8, 3 p.m. at Woodside High Performing Arts Center, 199 Churchill Ave., Woodside. Admission is free; donations welcome. windband.org/woodside.
Feliz Navidad with Jose Feliciano Latin music legend Jose Feliciano plays many of his hits, including “Feliz Navidad” and shares memorable stories from his long career.
Dec. 11, 7:30 p.m., at The Fox Theatre, 2221 Broadway St., Redwood City. $77-$93. foxrwc.com.
Holiday Heist with Jazz Mafia San Francisco-based musical collective Jazz Mafia brings soul- and jazz-inflected reworkings of holiday tunes including James Brown’s “Soulful Christmas,” Tchaikovsky’s “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy” and Vince Guaraldi’s “Linus and Lucy.”
Dec. 11, 7 and 9 p.m., at Bing Studio, Stanford. $15-$50. live.stanford.edu.
Winter Holiday Ukulele Jam Beginners and ukulele enthusiasts are welcome to join to sing and play together. Instructor Chuck Monahan will teach participants how to play basic chords and lead the group in an informal performance of songs with a seasonal theme. Ukeleles will be available at the event or participants can bring their own. For ages 12 and up.
Dec. 11, 6:30-8 p.m., at the Mountain View Library, 585 Franklin St., Mountain View. mountainview.libcal.com.
A Chanticleer Christmas The San Francisco men’s chorus performs their annual holiday show at Stanford Live, featuring a new program every year.
Dec. 12, 7:30 p.m. at Memorial Church, Stanford. $15-$95. live.stanford.edu.
Meow Meow’s Feline Festive Holiday “Post-post-modern diva” and vocalist Meow Meow rings in the holidays with a concert of jazzy vintage showbiz tunes to original and contemporary classics.
Dec. 13, 7:30 p.m., at Bing Concert Hall, Stanford. $15-$50. live.stanford.edu.
Music of a Charlie Brown Christmas Stanford Jazz Workshop’s annual holiday tradition features the Glen Pearson Trio with jazz pianist Glen Pearson, bassist Ruth Davies and drummer Lorca Hart playing Vince Guaraldi’s contemporary jazz score for the 1965 TV special “A Charlie Brown Christmas.”
Dec. 13, 7:30 p.m., Dec. 14, 2 and 7:30 p.m., Dec. 15, 2 p.m. at Campbell Recital Hall, Stanford. $22-$49. stanfordjazz.org.
Boleros de Navidad with Tres Souls Los Angeles-based trio Tres Souls specialize in adding a modern spin to the music of the 1940s-’60s, songs from the golden era of Mexican cinema, and boleros. The ensemble presents a bilingual Latin holiday performance — and a unique last opportunity to catch the group in concert, as they announced via their social media recently that they will be disbanding in summer 2025.
Dec. 14, 7 p.m., at Bing Studio, Stanford. $15-$45. live.stanford.edu.
Carols for a Cause A bi-coastal, teen-led holiday performance group featuring members ages 11-19. Their concert this year, titled ” Last 5 Years,” aims to raise funds for Facing History and Peninsula College Fund.
Dec. 15, 2 p.m., Palo Alto Art Center Auditorium, 1313 Newell Road Palo Alto. carolsforacause.com.
Holiday Organ Concert Stanford University organist Dr. Robert Huw Morgan performs a program of festive music celebrating the season.
Dec. 15, 1:30 p.m., at Memorial Church, Stanford. Free admission. events.stanford.edu.
Oakland Interfaith Choir Director Terrance Kelly leads the multicultural, interfaith choir in their annual South Bay concert featuring Kelly’s gospel arrangements of traditional holiday favorites in a performance that also includes the group’s Southbay Workshop Choir.
Dec. 20, 7:30 p.m., at Mountain View Center for Performing Arts, 500 Castro St., Mountain View. $39-$55. tickets.mvcpa.com.
Grateful Holiday The Terrapin Family Band presents its second annual holiday concert, with special guest Molly Tuttle.
Dec. 20, 8 p.m., at The Guild Theatre, 949 El Camino Real, Menlo Park. $62.57-$144.85. guildtheatre.com.
Molly Tuttle: Home for the Holidays Peninsula-born, Grammy-winning bluegrass artist Molly Tuttle returns to town for a holiday show.
Dec. 21, 8 p.m., at The Guild Theatre, 949 El Camino Real, Menlo Park. $69.53-$144.85 (show is waitlisted). guildtheatre.com.
Pops Family Christmas Special The California Pops Orchestra stages its annual concert of holiday favorites, this year featuring music from “Frozen,” “The Grinch,” “White Christmas” plus carols and Christmas standards like “Sleigh Ride.” Kids are invited to join the orchestra on stage for “Twas the Night Before Christmas.”
Dec. 22, 3 p.m., at Capuchino Performing Arts Center, 1501 Magnolia Ave., San Bruno. $21-$61. californiapopsorchestra.com.
You Should Be Dancing Bee Gees tribute band You Should Be Dancing presents a special holiday show.
Dec. 28, 8 p.m., at The Guild Theatre, 949 El Camino Real, Menlo Park. $48.09-$77.64. guildtheatre.com.
Classical
Bel Canto Flutes The Mountain View Library hosts the Bel Canto Flutes performing a holiday concert with music from across the ages, including many favorites. The group is an all-flute ensemble with flutes of all sizes and shapes.
Dec. 3, 7 p.m. at the Mountain View Public Library, 585 Franklin St., Mountain View. Free; registration is required. mountainview.libcal.com.
Stanford School of Medicine Holiday Concert The Stanford Medicine Chorus and Stanford Medicine Orchestra perform a program of classical and contemporary holiday songs, including selections from Tchaikovsky’s “Nutcracker” and “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas. The groups are made up of faculty, staff and students from Stanford Medicine, Stanford Hospital and Lucille Packard Children’s Hospital.
Dec 4, 6:30 p.m. at Bing Concert Hall, Stanford. $20 live.stanford.edu.
Ragazzi Boys Chorus With the concert “Sing, Choirs of Angels,” the boys chorus’ Concert Group, Choral Scholars and Young Men’s Ensemble perform a program of works by Bach, Mendelssohn, Forrest, Rutter and more.
Dec. 7, 7 p.m., at First United Methodist Church of Palo Alto, 625 Hamilton Ave., Palo Alto. ragazzi.org/performances.
Soli Deo Gloria With “A Vivaldi Christmas: Gloria and Carols,” the choir and instrumental ensemble performs Vivaldi’s “Gloria” plus a selection of hymns to Mary by Rachmaninoff, Choate and Bruckner and carols by McDowall and Gardner. The program includes choral and instrumental arrangements by Eric Choate and songs that encourage audience participation.
Dec. 7, 3:30 p.m., at Grace Lutheran Church, 3149 Waverley St., Palo Alto; additional performance Dec. 8 in Alameda. $30. sdgloria.org/performances.
Palo Alto Chamber Orchestra The Palo Alto Chamber Orchestra presents a holiday fundraising concert featuring all five of its youth orchestras with special guest artist Ariana Kim playing Astor Piazzolla’s “Four Seasons of Buenos Aires.”
Dec. 8, 3 p.m., at Carrington Hall, Sequoia High School, 1201 Brewster Ave., Redwood City. $25-$50. pacomusic.org.
Phiharmonia Baroque Orchestra and Chorale The group presents “A Bach Christmas,” featuring selections by J.S. Bach and Christoph Graupner, with soprano Sherezade Panthaki
Dec. 11, 7:30 p.m., at Bing Concert Hall, Stanford. $15-$130. philharmonia.org.
Sing- and Play-Along Messiah Stanford University’s Department of Music hosts an annual “sing and play it yourself” celebration of Handel’s masterwork, conducted by Stephen M. Sano, with the University Singers. Orchestral parts will be provided and singers can purchase scores at the door if they don’t already own one.
Dec. 13, 7:30 p.m., at Memorial Church, Stanford. $22-$27. live.stanford.edu.
Bay Choral Guild The choir’s “Christmas Spectacular” concert features holiday favorites, including selections from “Messiah.”
Dec. 14, 7:30 p.m., at First United Methodist Church of Palo Alto, 625 Hamilton Ave., Palo Alto; additional performance Dec. 15 in Campbell. $10-$30 in advance/$10-$35 at the door. baychoralguild.org.
California Bach Society “Gaudete, A Christmas Dialogue Across Centuries” pairs Renaissance and Baroque settings of nativity texts with 20th- and 21st-century composers’ renderings of the same texts. Featuring works by Michael Praetorius, Tomás Luis de Victoria, Jacobus Clemens non Papa, Benjamin Britten, Francis Poulenc, Franz Biebl and others.
Dec. 14, 7:30 p.m., at First Presbyterian Church, 1140 Cowper St., Palo Alto; additional performances Dec. 13 in San Francisco and Dec. 15 in Berkeley. $10-$35 in advance/$15-$40 at the door. calbach.org.
Community School of Music and Arts CSMA presents its annual winter concert highlighting the school’s merit scholar musicians playing holiday favorites in ensembles and solos.
Dec. 14, 5 p.m. at Community School of Music and Arts, 230 San Antonio Circle, Mountain View. Admission is free. arts4all.org.
Masterworks Chorale The choir presents a weekend of performances. First, the chorale’s “Carols, Cookies and Christmas” is a family holiday concert with songs, sing-alongs and a holiday story, plus a cookie reception. The following day, the chorale presents the concert “In the Stillness,” which brings together music of contemplation with joyful works and carols.
Family concert Dec. 14, 4 p.m. Admission is pay-what-you-will (free, but donations are welcome). “Ceremony of Carols” Dec. 15, 4 p.m. $15-$30. Both concerts take place at Congregational Church of San Mateo, 225 Tilton Ave., San Mateo. masterworksbayarea.org.
San Francisco Choral Artists The choir performs “Christmas on the Edge: Voices from the Pacific Rim,” a program that offers an international journey exploring languages from the numerous countries that border the Pacific Ocean, from Chile to Korea, Mexico to Russia. The program features Composer-in-Residence Theo Popov and Composer-Not-in-Residence Patricia Julien.
Dec. 21, 7:30 p.m. at All Saints Episcopal Church, 555 Waverley St., Palo Alto. Tickets are $15-$35. sfca.org.
Palo Alto Philharmonic The orchestra performs the program “Transcending Fate” featuring works by Uebayashi and Beethoven, with guest artist Ráyo Furuta, flute.
Dec. 14, 7:30 p.m., at the Cubberley Theatre, 4000 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto, $10-$25. paphil.org.
Peninsula Women’s Chorus “Cultivating Hope” highlights a selection of international holiday songs celebrating Kwanzaa, Christmas and Noche Buena, along with songs of light, faith, and survival. The program includes such works as J.S. Bach’s “Suscepit Israel,” and “Before I Forget” by the chorus’ composer-in-residence, Amy X Neuburg.
Dec. 13, 7 p.m., at First United Methodist Church, 625 Hamilton Ave., Palo Alto, and Dec. 14, 2 p.m., in Santa Clara. $10-$50. pwchorus.org.
San Francisco Girls Chorus Music at Kohl Mansion hosts a holiday concert with Grammy Award-winning youth choir San Francisco Girls Chorus.
Dec. 15, 7 p.m., at Kohl Mansion, 2750 Adeline Drive, Burlingame $20-$40. musicatkohl.org.
Schola Cantorum The choir presents “The Heart of the Season,” a concert featuring music and sing-alongs from many faiths and traditions.
Dec. 15, 4 p.m., at Los Altos United Methodist Church, 655 Magdalena Ave., Los Altos. $30. scholacantorum.org.
Schola Cantorum Messiah Sing The choir hosts its 58th annual Messiah Sing. The performance features the Christmas section of Handel’s composition, along with other favorite movements from the work, and audiences are encouraged to sing along. Scores will be available or you can bring your own.
Dec. 16, 7:30 p.m., at First Congregational Church of Palo Alto, 1985 Louis Road, Palo Alto. $30/free admission for students under 25, with student ID. scholacantorum.org.
Stage
Fiddler on the Roof Palo Alto Players stages the classic musical about Tevye, a poor milkman and his family who live in a tight-knit, traditional Jewish community in imperial Russia. As his children come of age, Tevye must grapple with change while trying to honor his traditional values.
Through Nov. 24, times vary, at Lucie Stern Theater, 1305 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto; $35-$60; paplayers.org.
Mary Poppins Peninsula Youth Theatre presents a stage musical inspired by the favorite Disney film and the stories of author P.L. Travers.
Nov. 16-24, times vary, at the Mountain View Center for Performing Arts, 500 Castro St., Mountain View. $32. https://pytnet.org/
The Agitators The Pear Theatre presents a play that tells of the 45-year tumultuous friendship of Susan B. Anthony and Frederick Douglass.
Preview on Nov. 21; show runs Nov. 22-Dec. 15, times vary, at The Pear Theatre, 1110 La Avenida, Suite A, Mountain View. Tickets start at $42 (Nov. 21 preview is $20). thepear.org/season23.
A Christmas Story: The Musical Los Altos Stage Company presents a musical adaptation of the favorite holiday movie set in 1940s Indiana, where young Ralphie Parker attempts to convince his parents — and Santa Claus — to bring him a Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas. From the songwriting team of the Tony Award-winning musical “Dear Evan Hansen.”
Nov. 29-Dec. 22, times vary, at 97 Hillview Ave., Los Altos. Tickets start at $28. losaltosstage.org/a-christmas-story.
Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley TheatreWorks Silicon Valley presents a romantic sequel to Jane Austen’s classic “Pride & Prejudice” by Lauren Gunderson and Margot Melcon.
Previews Dec. 4-6; show runs Dec. 7-29, times vary, at the Lucie Stern Theatre, 1305 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto. $34-$115 ($29-$49 previews). theatreworks.org.
Anastasia Hillbarn Theatre stages a musical inspired by the animated film that journeys from the waning Russian Empire to the streets of 1920s Paris in telling the story of a brave young woman named Anya on a quest to uncover the mystery of her past.
Dec. 5-29, times vary, at Hillbarn Theatre, 1285 E. Hillsdale Blvd., Foster City. hillbarntheatre.org.
The Nutcracker Palo Alto Children’s Theatre presents a children’s play with dialogue, dance and Tchaikovsky’s classic music, based on E.T.A. Hoffmann’s story of Clara and the enchanted nutcracker doll that takes her to a magical land. Suggested for ages 3-10.
Dec. 5-22, times vary, at Palo Alto Children’s Theatre, 1305 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto. $18. bit.ly/PACTNutcracker.
The Secret Garden Peninsula Youth Theatre presents an original adaptation based on the classic children’s book. The performance features a live talkback with the cast and production staff after the show
Dec. 7, 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m., at SecondStage, Mountain View Center for Performing Arts, 500 Castro St., Mountain View. Call 650-903-6000 for ticket information. pytnet.org.
24-Hour Alumni Musical Portola Valley Theatre Conservatory invites adult alumni to gather on the afternoon of Dec. 20 and spend the next 24 hours rehearsing a 90-minute musical that will then be performed for the public.
Production takes place Dec. 21, 4 p.m., at Portola Valley Theatre Conservatory, 945 Portola Road, Portola Valley. pvtc-ca.org.
The Gingerbread Man Palo Alto Children’s Theatre presents a 55-minute holiday performance suited for ages 2 to 6.
Dec. 21-23, 10 a.m. and noon, at Palo Alto Children’s Theatre, 1305 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto. $17. bit.ly/3MfZIm1.
