December 2008 Events California

Saturday, December 6, 2008

BOULDER CREEK -   Boulder Creek Christmas in The Redwoods. The Annual Christmas in the Redwoods is a Tree Lighting Ceremony, welcome of Santa Claus, and Christmas Carols. Time: 5:30 p.m. Location: Rainbow's End located at the North end by the bridge, Boulder Creek, CA. bcba.net

CALIFORNIA CITY - Tree Lighting and Holiday Celebration. Lighting of Christmas tree, visit from Santa, local school & church choirs. Hot Chocolate served by The Girl Scouts. Time: 6 to 7 p.m. Cost: Free. Location:  California City City Hall, 21000 Hacienda Blvd., California City, CA. Call: (661) 754-1058.

CARSON - Proof, a Play.  David Auburn's Pulitzer and Tony-winning drama about a young woman's struggles with her recently deceased father's mathematical genius and his mental illness. Time: 8 p.m. Cost: $12. Location: Edison Studio Theatre, California State University, Dominguez Hills, 1000 E. Victoria St., Carson, CA. Call:  (310) 243-3588. zaptix.com

CERES - Christmas Festival. Ceres 21st Annual Christmas Festival includes horse-drawn wagon rides down Christmas Tree Lane.  At the conclusion of the festival will be the Grand Opening of Christmas Tree Lane. Time: 5:30 to 8 p.m. Cost: Free. Location: Smyrna Park, 2650 Fowler Rd., Ceres CA Call: (209) 538-5682

CHICO- Ballet Folklorico Posada Navidena.  Time: 7:30 p.m. Cost: $17 - 22.  Location: California State University, Chico, Laxson Auditorium, 2nd & Normal Ave., Chico, CA. Call: (530) 898-6333. chicoperformances.com

COLUMBIA - Lamplight Tour. Docents in period costume perform a series of skits depicting life in Columbia during the holiday season. Reservations fill up quickly, so reserve early. Fundraiser for Friends of Columbia State Historic Park. Time: 5:30 p.m. Cost: $20. Location: Columbia State Park, Columbia, CA. Call: (209) 536-1672. friendsofcolumbiashp.org

CRESCENT CITY - Holiday Fair. Del Norte County Fairgrounds Main Exhibit Building is the location for this gift-buying opportunity. Music, entertainment and lots to look at. Free admission (donation of a new toy or canned goods accepted). Location: Del Norte County Fairgrounds, 421 Highway 101 North Crescent City, California. Call: (800) 350-9556. dnfairgrounds.com 

FAIR OAKS - Christmas in the Village & Tree Lighting Ceremony.  The 25th Annual  celebration sponsor and vendor booths, a village merchants' decorating contest, visiting with Santa and Mrs. Claus, the children’s play "Winnie the Pooh" in the Amphitheater, singing Christmas carols, lighting of the Christmas tree and a parade. Time: 1 to 6 p.m. Cost: Free. Location: Plaza Park in the Fair Oaks Village, Fair Oaks Blvd. & California Street, Fair Oaks, CA. fairoakschamber.com

FORT BRAGG - Holiday Lights Parade. Annual parade features the arrival of Santa Claus, Christmast Tree Lighting, Caroler and musical entertainment. Location: Downtown Fort Bragg, CA. Call: (707) 961-6300

FREMONT - Train of Lights is an actual train that offers a holiday light display in a 75 minute ride between Niles and Sunol. The brightly decorated holiday train, covered with thousands of lights, as it winds through the darkness of Niles Canyon on a 75-minute round-trip ride from either Niles or Sunol runs through Dec. 29, seating is limited.  Time: 4:15 & 6:45 p.m. from Niles & 4:30 & 7 p.m. from Sunol. Cost: $25. Location: Niles Station, 37001 Mission Blvd., Freemont, CA.  Sunol Depot, 6 Kilkare Rd., Sunol, CA. Call: (510) 996-8430. ncry.org

HAYWARD - Ballet Petit's The Nutcracker. This production of America's favorite ballet, The Nutcracker, features fantastic costumes, magical stages sets that twinkle with holiday festivity, and traditional ballet under the direction of the multi-talented Peggy Peabody. Time: 2 & 7 p.m. Cost: $16 -20. Location: Chabot College Theatre of Performing Arts, 25555 Hesperian Blvd., Hayward, CA. Call: (510) 324-4988. balletpetit.com

KINGSBURG - Santa Lucia Festival, Parade and Gingerbread House Competition.  An evening parade with a silent procession is held as part of a Swedish-themed event in which girls dressed in white gown with red sashes go to various restaurants, carrying coffee pots and tasty buns.  Also, a gingerbread house competition, caroling, and arts and crafts are included for all ages to enjoy and participate in. Time: 5:30 p.m. parade, other events throughout the day. Cost: Free for most activities. Location Draper St., Kingsburg, CA. Call:  (559) 897-1111 .kingsburgchamberofcommerce.com

LOS GATOS - Carriage Rides. Old fashioned horse drawn carriage rides offer the romance of Christmas past. Ride in an elegant horse-drawn carriage. Stately drivers direct horses wearing holiday bells from Town Plaza through  Almond Grove district. This 15-minute ride will take you by some of the town's most beautiful historic homes and along downtown's festively-decorated North Santa Cruz Avenue. Carriage Rides starts at 7pm. Carriage Ride Cost: $20/ Adult; $10/ kid; Free/ under 3 on lap. Reservations: losgatoschamber.com.

LOS GATOS - Children's Christmas/ Holidays Parade. 52nd Annual Parade begins at the corner of Almendra and Santa Cruz Ave. proceeding south to Main Street and ending at Church Street. Time: 11 a.m., rain or shine. Call: (408) 354-8700 ext. 226. lgsrecreation.org

LIVERMORE - An Italian Holiday with  Valley Concert Chorale. Concert features Respighi's Laud to the Nativity and Vivaldi's Gloria, along with carols of the season. Time: 8 p.m. Admission is $20. Location: First Presbyterian Church, 4th & L Streets, Livermore, CA. Call (925) 866-4003. valleyconcertchorale.org

MARYSVILLE  - Marysville Christmas Parade, A Charlie Brown Christmas. Over 100 entries in this festive parade. Lighted floats, horses, cars, clowns, carolers, organizations, schools and bands all participate. Time: 5 to 7 p.m. Location: The parade starts at 6th and D Streets and ends after passing the reviewing stand on C Street between 4th & 5th. Downtown Marysville, CA. Call: (530) 749-3953. marysville.ca.us.
MCCLOUD - Olde Fashioned Christmas. McCloud Chamber of Commerce –McCloud opens its doors & hearts in celebration of the Holiday season for two weekends. Among the activities are Santa Claus visit with bonfire, caroling, business & open houses, Christmas light decorating contest, special entertainment & more. Location: McCloud, CA. mccloudchamber.com

MENLO PARK  - Breakfast with Santa. Enjoy writing a letter to Santa, dining on a pancake feast and even visiting Santa Claus to tell him your holiday wishes. Bring a camera.  Location: Burgess Recreation Center, 700 Alma St., Menlo Park, CA. Cost: $3/kid; $5/adult. Time: 8 to 11 a.m. menlopark.org

MILLBRAE  -  Holiday Craft Faire and Tree Lighting Ceremony. Join Millbrae's community celebration and lighting of the City Hall Christmas Tree. City of Millbrae’s Annual Holiday Craft Faire goes from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and includes arts & crafts, music, food and shopping! It is held at Chetcuti Room, 451 Poplar Ave. Tree Lighting Time: 5 p.m. Cost: Free. Location: Millbrae City Hall, 621 Magnolia Ave., Millbrae, CA. Call: (650) 873-5298. ci.millbrae.ca.us

MONTEREY - Cowboy Poetry and Music Festival. 9th Annual Monterey Cowboy Poetry and Music Festival features the best cowboy poets and balladeers, plus well known western artists. Saturday events include:
Chasin' the Herds with Jay Snider, Sourdough Slim, and Linda Kirkpatrick; Christmas Art & Gear Show; Ridin' the Cowpoke Cosmos with Paul Zarzyski & Wallace McRae; Slack Key Talk Story with Leabert Lindsey, Marcus Wong Yeun, and Bobby Kini; Story Tellers – Hosted by Mick Vernon with Dave Stamey, Juni Fisher, Paul Zarzyski, Baxter Black;  Houlihan -- J&S Productions Documentary; Sagebrush Symphony with Dave Stamey with Wallace McRae, Lone Prairie, and Jay Snider; and Stardust Cowboys performing at the Western Dance that begins at 10 p.m. Time: 9 a.m. to Midnight. Cost: $200/ 3 day pass, or $135/person approx. for full day of activities and dances. Location: Monterey Conference Center, 1 Portola Plaza, Monterey, CA. Call: (800) 722-9652. montereycowboy.org

MORGAN HILL - Holiday Lights Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony. Morgan Hill's Holiday Lights Parade starts at 1st Street & Monterey and ends at the Community Center located at Dunne and Monterey Road. The Tree Lighting Ceremony is held after the Parade. Children of all ages can visit with Santa and his Magical Ship. Lana's Dance Studio will be performing in the Amphitheatre. Time: 5:30 to 8 p.m. Cost: Free.  Location: Downtown Morgan Hill, CA. Call: (408) 612-2901.

NAPA - Decorate Your Own Gingerbread House. Time: Noon to 2 p.m. Cost: $35; extra house $25; extra kid or adult $10. Location: COPIA: The American Center for Wine, Food & the Arts, 500 First Street, Napa, CA. Call: (888) 512-6742. copia.org

NAPA - Baguette Quartette’s Holiday Concert. With legends, chansons, and vintage dance music, the Baguette Quartette will take you back to pre-WWII France. Hear a Santa Claus legend with an 1842 song that became a huge French hit. You will hear one a capella example of the begging songs that were used all over Europe during the Holidays and songs about snow, crèpes and the twelve months of the year (like “On the First Day of Christmas”). Of course there will be valse musette, fox trot, paso doble, tango and all the dances that make the Baguette Quartette a Bay Area favorite. Time: 8 to 10 p.m. Cost: $29. Location: COPIA: The American Center for Wine, Food & the Arts, 500 First Street, Napa, CA. Call: (888) 512-6742. copia.org

NAPA -  Sugarplum Tea. Sugarplum Tea. Catch includes sweet baked goods such as Savory Tarts, Scones with Sweet Creamery Butter & Lemon Curd, plus Holiday Sweets Sampler, and elegant tea sandwiches served with a brimming pot of tea. Traditional holiday tunes on the harp complete this lovely interlude. Call (707) 259-1600 for reservations. Time: 3 to 4:30 p.m. Cost: $45. Location: COPIA: The American Center for Wine, Food & the Arts, 500 First Street, Napa, CA. Call: (888) 512-6742. copia.org

OAKLEY - Tree Lighting Ceremony. Held at Oakley Civic Center, this annual event is a show-stopper. It is one of the warmest celebrations on a cool December night. Time: 6 to 8 p.m. Cost: Free. oakleychamber.com

ORICK -Candlelight Walk Through the Ancient Forest. This annual holiday walk, illuminated only by candles, goes thru the redwoods to the Campfire Amphitheatre where North Coast Storytellers entertain. Time: 6 to 9 p.m. Cost: Free. Location: Elk Prairie Visitors Center, Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, Orick, CA. Call: (707) 488-2169. northcoastredwood@jeffnet.org  /

PACIFIC GROVE - Stillwell's Snow in the Park.  15th Annual Stillwell’s Snow in the Park at Caledonia Park in downtown behind the Post Office features a snow-covered blanket of white snow and twinkling lights. Lots of wintry fun for all! Featuring Santa’s arrival on a shiny Pacific Grove fire truck, Frosty the Snowman, Snow Queen, hayrides, petting zoo & lots of entertainment. More info: 831-373-3304. pacificgrove.org

PETALUMA - Holiday Lighted Boat Parade. A flotilla of decorated boats on parade andholiday caroling make for an evening of delightful fun. Time: 5:30 p.m. Cost: Free to watch. Location: Petaluma Marina - arrives in the Turning Basin at about 6:30 p.m. Call: (707) 769-0429.

PITTSBURG - 2008 Nutcracker. This Peninsula Ballet Theatre Dance Company production of The Nutcracker offers timeless beauty. Time: 7:30 p.m. Cost: $10 - 25. Call: (925) 432-4992. Location: Pittsburg Creative Arts Building, 250 School St., Pittsburg, CA. peninsulaballet.org

RANCHO CORDOVA - Breakfast with Santa. Pancakes, sausage and scrambled egges, plus beverages are included in this American-style breakfast. Cost: $5/person. Time: 8 to 10 a.m. Location: Cordova Senior Activities Center, Rancho Cordova, CA.

REDWOOD CITY - Ballet America's Nutcracker. Beautiful production features guest performances by David Bier and several others. Time: 1 & 7:30 p.m. Cost: $18 - 39. Location: The Fox Theatre, 2215 Broadway, Redwood City, CA. Call: (650) 369-4119. foxdream.com

ROSEVILLE - Roseville Tree Lighting. Sights and sounds will fill Vernon St. between 5 and 8 p.m. . It will center around the Civic Center at 311 Vernon St., Roseville, CA. Call: (916) 746-1390.

ROSEVILLE - Holiday Craft Fair. 19th annual event is held at the Maidu Community Center. Time: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Location: 1550 Maidu Dr., Roseville, CA. Call: (916) 774-5979. roseville.ca.us 

SACRAMENTO - The Nutcracker performed by Sacramento Ballet, the annual event is better than ever.  Time: 7 p.m. Location: Sacramento Community Theater, Community Center Theater, 1301 L Street, Sacramento, CA. Cost: $28 - 48 approx. Call the Community Center Theater Box Office at (916) 264.5181. sacballet.org. 

SALINAS - Streets of Bethlehem Living Nativity. It begins just after dark (6 p.m. and goes to 8:30 p.m.) It is free to the public. A special assistance opportunity for those with disabilities and impairments is offered. Please contact the First Baptist Church of Salinas. Address: 1130 San Vincente Ave., Salinas, CA. Call: (831) 422-9872.  1stbaptist.net

SAN CARLOS - Santa Arrives by Helicopter. Heller Aviation Museum is the place for action when Santa drops in from the sky, arriving by helicopter. Santa arrives at 10 am - leaves about 12:30.  San Carlos Community Band will perform, and  refreshments are provided compliments of Trader Joe's. Santa will greet children with candy canes and coloring books and then move by fire truck (around noon) to his Holiday Home in Downtown San Carlos at the Bank of America Parking Lot in the 700 block of Laurel Street. At Hiller, for a donation, Girl Scouts will be taking Polaroid photos of the children with Santa. Time: 9:30 a.m. Cost: Free. Location: Hiller Aviation Museum and Institute, 601 Skyway Road off Holly/ Redwood Shores Parkway near the San Carlos Airport, San Carlos, CA. Call: (650) 593-1068

SAN FRANCISCO - The Great Dickens Christmas Fair. Public invited to the re-creation of the novel Charles Dickens novel with festive costumes, A Christmas Carol, includes live entertainment, food, music, and family fun.  Runs weekends through Dec. 21, 2008. Cost: Adult Advance Tickets $17; Child (5-11) $10. Day of: Adult: $22; | Child $10. Time: 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Location: Cow Palace, East Exhibit Halls, Geneva Ave., San Francisco, CA. Call: (415) 404-4111. cowpalace.com

SAN FRANCISCO - The Nutcracker. Westlake School for the Performing Arts under the artistic direction of Malu Rivera-Peoples, presents The Nutcracker. Time: 2 p.m. Location: Palace of Fine Arts, Bay & Lyon, San Francisco, CA. Cost: $25-30. Location: Call: (650) 757-1244. wspadance.com

SAN FRANCISCO - Fantasy of Lights Parade and Tree Lighting Celebration. Union Street is the happening place this holiday season during the Fantasy of Lights Parade and Lighting Ceremony that graces the tree-lined Union Street and Fillmore shopping district. A month long celebration begins at sunset with a parade including the Snow Queen, Santa, carolers and entertainers who lead the way to the Cudworth Mansion at 2040 Union where the lighting of Union and nearby Fillmore streets takes place with the sparkle of millions of tiny white lights. Time: 6 to 9 p.m. Cost: Free. Location: 2040 Union Street, San Francisco, CA. Call: (800) 310-6563. unionstreetsf.com

SAN JUAN BAUTISTA - Holiday in Lights Parade: A Tribute to the Loveable Characters of Disney. Time: 5:30 p.m. Cost: Free. Location: Downtown San Juan Bautista, CA. Call: (831) 623-2454. sjbchamber.com

SAN JOSE - Downtown Ice. Outdoor ice skating rink for the holidays. Time: Noon to Midnight. Cost: $15/ adult. $13/ youth 12 and under. Admission includes rental skates and ice time. Runs through Jan. 11, 2009. Location:  120 S. Market St., San Jose, CA. Call:  (408) 279-1775. sjdowntown.com
SAN RAFAEL -Stapleton Nutcracker. Time: 1 & 5 p.m. Cost: $16 - 30. Location: Marin Civic Center: Marin Veterans Memorial Auditorium, 3501 Civic Center Dr., San Rafael, CA. Call:  (415) 499-6800

SANTA CRUZ - Lighted Boat Parade. The Lighted Boat Parade features 50 beautifully-decorated power and sailboats parading through the Santa Cruz Harbor. Charter boats available. This is a family event with hot drinks and snacks available at various locations through the south harbor. Time: 5:30 p.m. santacruzharbor.org

SANTA ROSA - A Johnny Mathis Christmas. Accompanied by a 31-piece symphony orchestra, one of the finest singers creates holiday memories in songs you'll cherish. Time: 8 p.m. Cost: $69 & 99. Location: Wells Fargo Center for the Arts, 50 Mark West Springs Rd., Santa Rosa, CA.  Call: (707) 546-3600. wellsfargocenterarts.org

SEBASTOPOL - Goddess Crafts Fair. 14th annual arts & crafts event features unique hand-crafted items, musical entertainment and nice way to spend a day. Time: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Cost: $5 - 13, suggested donation (proceeds go to local charity). Location: Sebastopol Community Center, 390 Morris St., Sebastopol, CA. goddesscraftsfaire.com

STOCKTON - Delta Reflections Lighted Boat Parade. Decorated boats come from the Stockton Deep Water Channel and take one time around Mc Leod Lake and return to the Deep Water Channel. This is the 29th annual Lighted Boat Parade and it is a free event sponsored by Marina West Yacht Club. It is a wonderful event to kick off the holiday season and takes place rain or shine! This event is a holiday gift, from Marina West Yacht Club, to the residents of San Joaquin County. Location & Time: The parade usually forms at Light 36 in the Stockton San Joaquin Delta at 5 p.m., reaching Weber Point at approximately 6 p.m. Call: Lynn Hahn, (209) 477-7653.

SUISUN CITY - Christmas on the Waterfront. Suisun City's Waterfront District comes alive for the holidays with Santa, tree-lighting, caroling, lighted boat parade, bonfire, wagon rides, food & fun for the whole family! Time: 2 to 8 p.m. Location: Suisun City Harbor Plaza, Main Street at Solano Street, Suisun City, CA. Call: (707) 421-7309. suisun.com

SUNNYVALE - Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Celebration. Sponsored by Sunnyvale Downtown Association, this is the city's 8th annual tree lighting event. Time: 4:30 - 8:30 p.m. Cost: Free. Location: 100 block of Murphy Ave., Downtown Sunnyvale, CA. Call: (408) 516-7217. sunnyvale.ca.gov

VALLEJO - Holiday Tree Lighting. Vallejo's 11th Annual  lighting of the City Christmas Tree includes festivities. After the lighting of the City Christmas Tree, enjoy caroling, music, hot chocolate, & cookies, a visit by Santa via Fire truck. Caroling by the Vallejo Choral Society and the Campanelli children's choir, dance selections performed by Solano Community College, poetry, hot chocolate, cookies, and a visit by Santa via Fire truck make this holiday season bright. Time: 5 to 7 p.m. (Santa arrives at 6:45.) Cost: Free. Location:  Vallejo Waterfront & Ferry Terminal, 289 Mare Island Way, Vallejo, CA.

WALNUT CREEK - The Nutcracker. Contra Costa Ballet School and Contra Costa Ballet Centre produces an annual Nutcracker at Dean Lesher Regional Center for the Arts at Hoffman Theater. Cost: $28. Time: 2, 4:30 & 7:30 p.m. Location: Dean Lesher Regional Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek CA. Call: (925) 943-SHOW or (925) 943-7469.contracostaballet.org

WALNUT CREEK - Downtown Walnut Creek on Ice. This seasonal ice skating rink offers holiday exercise and fun in a beautiful outdoor setting. Time: 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Cost: $11 - 15. Location: Civic Park, Clay Arts Parking Lot, Walnut Creek, CA. Call: (925) 935-7669. iceskatewalnutcreek.com

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA (Santa Barbara to San Diego)  / NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

ANAHEIM - Nutcracker Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony and Holiday Village. Free Pictures with Santa, Free Holiday Craft Activities for the kids, Free Train Rides, Free children's snow play, Candle Light processional, Lighting of 50Ft. Christmas tree, Live Holiday music. Time: Noon to 7:30 p.m. Cost: Free. Location: Center Street Promenade and Lemon, Anaheim, CA. Call: (714) 956-3586.

ANAHEIM - Disneyland's Holiday Celebration includes Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle, “Believe … in Holiday Magic” fireworks show, Santa’s Reindeer Round-up, A Christmas Fantasy parade, Haunted Mansion Holiday and It’s a Small World holiday. Time: 8 a.m. to Midnight. Location: 1313 S. Harbor Blvd., Anaheim, CA.

APPLE VALLEY - Winter Wonderland Celebration. Join the town of Apple Valley for its first ever Winter Wonderland with snow, carolers, games for the kids and more. The Tree Lighting Ceremony is part of the festivities at this family fun event. Time: 2 to 6 p.m.  Cost: Free. Location: Civic Center, 14955 Dale Evans Parkway, Apple Valley, California. Call: (760) 240-7000, x 7071.

CLAREMONT - Nutcracker Ballet. Inland Pacific Ballet Nutcracker Ballet production is performed in the beautiful Bridges concert hall. Cost: $13 - 48. Time: 7 p.m. Claremont Colleges Bridges Auditorium, 450 N. College Way, Claremont, Ca. Phone: (909)-607-1139. ipballet.org

CORONA - Holiday Boutique. Time to get ready for the Holidays! You will find beautiful, handmade, one-of-a-kind decorations, candles, floral, clothing, jewelry, holiday decor, antiques and Tasty Treats like gourmet caramel apples, candy, baked goods & tamales Too! Event is held on Dec. 5 & 6. Time: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Cost: Free admission. Location: 14183 Parkwood Ave., Corona, CA. Call: (951) 258-5909.

COSTA MESA - All Breed Dog Show. Shoreline Dog Fanciers Assoc. event includes Dog Exhibition, show and competition. Public education and vendors. Time: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Cost: Free admission. Location: Buildings 12, 14 & 16, and Main Mall, 88 Fair Dr., Costa Mesa, CA. Call: (714) 708-1500. ocfair or shorelinedogfanciersassociation.org

DANA POINT -  Holiday Boat Parade. Join in the 34th Annual Holiday Boat Parade of Lights in Dana Point Harbor by climbing aboard one of the decorated boats and actually take part in the parade.  You'll see the hundreds of other decorated boats competing for the coveted Best in Show Award! Time: 7:30pm - 9:30 p.m. Location: Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching, 34675 Golden Lantern in Dana Point, CA. Cost: $29 adult/$19 kid 3-12. Call: (949) 496-5794. danawharf.com

DANA POINT - Free Boat Rides with Santa Claus. Join Santa Claus and tell him your Holiday wishes aboard this 20 minute cruise. These trips are free and run every half hour. No reservations required. Time: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Cost: Free. Location: Dana Point Harbor Drive at Golden Lantern, Dana Point, CA. Call: (949) 496-5794. danawharf.com/kidsclub.html

DEL MAR - Holiday of Lights Drive-Thru Display. Largest animated show on the West Coast features over 400 displays. Time: 5:30 to 10 p.m.; Fri & Sat open till 11 p.m. Cost: $14/ car (up to 5 people). Location: The Del Mar Fairgrounds, 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd., Del Mar, CA. Call: (858) 755-1161. sdfair.com

ENCINITAS Encinitas Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting Ceremony. 2008 Encinitas Holiday Parade, “A Storybook Holiday,” celebrates literary works of the Holiday season. A Tree Lighting Ceremony at 5 p.m. in the Lumberyard shopping center courtyard on Coast Highway 101 launches the event with the parade starting at 5:30 p.m. Parade entries plan to go all out, representing their favorite holiday stories and characters while Grand Marshal Morris Pike, founder of Captain Book Children’s Literacy Program, offers a great fit to the theme. Nearly 100 entries make their way down the Parade route heading south along Coast Highway 101 from D Street to J Street. Time: 5 p.m. Cost: Free. Location: Downtown Encinitas, California. Call (760) 633-2740 for general Parade information. ci.encinitas.ca.us

ESCONDIDO - Holiday Tree Lighting and Winter Wonderland. Enjoy the holidays with a tree lighting, visit with Santa, and Horse & Carriage Rides. Time: 5 to 9 p.m. Cost: Free. Locations: FREE Horse and Carriage Rides – pick up at Maple and Grand from 6 to 8 p.m.; FREE Visit with Santa at 157 East Grand Avenue from 5 to 7 p.m.; Tree Lighting at California Center for the Arts Escondido, 340 N Escondido Blvd., Escondido, CA. Call: (760) 839-4138. downtownescondido.com

ESCONDIDO - Horse & Carriage Rides. This free event features a beautiful evening carriage ride through the downtown business district. Time: 5 to 8 p.m. Cost: Free. Location: Pick-up at Maple & Grand, Escondido, CA. downtownescondido.com
FULLERTON - The Nutcracker. Anaheim Ballet greets the holiday season with a special Nutcracker ballet performance at Plummer Auditorium in Fullerton. Time: 3 & 8 p.m. Cost: $25-30. Location: 201 E. Chapman Ave., Fullerton, CA. Call: (866) 468-3399. anaheimballet.org

GARDEN GROVE - The Glory of Christmas Musical.  A blend of Christmas carols, pageantry, live animals, flying angels, and special effects unfold in the nativity story. Location: Crystal Cathedral, 12141 Lewis St., Garden Grove, CA. Time: 5:30 & 7:30 p.m. Cost: $20-45. Call: 714-54-GLORY (714-544-5679) or 877-544-5679. crystalcathedral.org

HUNTINGTON BEACH - Concert In Voce Tubae. Subtitled: Festive Music for Choir, Brass and Percussion. Directed by Dr. Bruce Bales, Conductor, festive music for choir, brass and percussion will feature works by Schültz, Purcell, Bruckner, Pinkham, Dello Joio and Rutter. Time: 8 p.m. Cost: $12/general admission. Location: Golden West College Mainstage Theater, 15744 Golden West Street, Huntington Beach, CA 92647. Call: (714) 714-895-8150 x1. gwctheater.com

HUNTINGTON BEACH - Huntington Harbour Christmas Boat Parade. Parade begins around 6 p.m. and travels throughout the harbor channels.

IRVINE - The Secret Santa Musical Show. Presented by Men Alive: The Orange County Gay Men's Chorus.  Time: 3 & 8 p.m. Cost: $25 - 47.50. Location: UC Irvine Barclay Theatre, 4242 Campus Dr., Irvine, CA. Call: (949) 854-4646. thebarclay.org

JULIAN - Living Nativity.  Every Saturday until Christmas you'll find the Living Nativity in Julian. Time: 5:30 p.m. Cost: Free. Location: Cider Mill, corner Main & B, Julian, CA. Call: (760) 765-1857. julianca.com

LAKE ARROWHEAD - The Nutcracker. Lake Arrowhead Classical Ballet Company presents a holiday ballet favorite, Nutcracker Ballet. Time: 2:30 & 8 p.m. Cost: $16.25. Location: Rim of the World Performing Arts Center, Lake Arrowhead, CA. arrowheadballet.org

LANCASTER - The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. The story of Christmas presented by kids in a comedic play by Barbara Robinson. Time: 7 p.m. Cost: $8 - 17. Location: Lancaster Performing Arts Center, 750 Lancaster Blvd., Lancaster, CA. Call: (661)723-5950. lpac.org

LONG BEACH  - Harbor Lights Christmas Cruise. See the decorated homes and boats of Naples Island on a one-hour cruise aboard the 140 passenger Party Boat, The Star. Offering a cash bar with beer, wine, cocktails and snacks for kids, there's also some sweets, cocoa and foods to munch on for adults.  Christmas Cruise departs from Alamitos Bay Landing, 140 Marina Dr., Long Beach, CA 90803. Call for times: (562) 799-7000. Tickets: $10 -15. reggaeboat.com

LONG BEACH - Santa Claus Visits. Santa will appear every Saturday and Sunday till Christmas. Time: Noon to 4 p.m. Marketplace Long Beach, 6501 E. Pacific Coast Highway (PCH & 2nd St.), Long Beach, CA. Call: (562) 431-6282. longbeachmarketplace.com

LONG BEACH - Live Concert with DC Four, plus Santa from Noon to 4 p.m. Marketplace Long Beach, 6501 E. Pacific Coast Highway (PCH & 2nd St.), Long Beach, CA. Call: (562) 431-6282. longbeachmarketplace.com

LOS ANGELES - Pink Dress Puppet Show. The Pink Dress is based on an actual episode from the Maruyama family's history in the Amache Concentration Camp. Faced with wearing the required drab uniform, Tsuki decides to wear her sister's pink dress to her junior high school graduation to prove she is not "an ant," but an individual. Time: 2 p.m. Cost: $13, includes Museum admission. Comfortable walking shoes and clothes recommended, weather permitting. Location: Japanese American National Museum, 369 East First Street, Los Angeles, California. Call: (213) 625-0414. janm.org

LOS ANGELES - Carmen, the Opera. Emmanuel Villaume conducts the Los Angeles Opera presentation of this stage favorite is about a gypsy temptress, set in 19th-century Seville, Spain. Time: 7:30 p.m. Cost: $20 to $250. Location: Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, 135 N. Grand Ave., Los Angeles, CA.  Call: (213) 972-8001. laopera.com

LOS ANGELES - Downtown on Ice. Holiday ice rink is an annual event with free concerts and paid ice skating at temporary rink constructed at Pershing Square near the Civic Center. Rink is open daily through Jan. 19, 2009. Time: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sundays through Thursdays, and open until 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Cost: $6/ adult, $3 child 4 to 12, free age 3 & under. Location: Pershing Square 532 South Olive Drive Los Angeles, CA. Call: (213) 847-4968. laparks.org

LOS ANGELES - Holiday at the Zoo. See Santa, make reindeer antlers and see live reindeer at this holiday event each weekend through December. Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Cost: $7-12 (kids 2 & under free). Location: Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens, 5333 Zoo Drive, Los Angeles, CA. Call: (323) 644-4200. lazoo.org

LOS ANGELES - Holiday Light Festival Walk Only Nights. 13th Annual Los Angeles Department of Water and Power holiday lights event in Griffith Park is a display of lights spanning a mile of Crystal Springs Drive. A pedestrian only and vehicle free event goes through December 7. The driving route, walking and shuttles all run December 8 through December 30. Shuttle buses will be available weekends and December 19-30. Walkers on these days will enjoy the walking path. Both options are accessible from the Los Angeles Zoo parking lot. Time: 5 to 10 p.m.  Location: 4730 Crystal Springs Drive, Los Angeles, CA. Call: (213) 367-1255. dwplightfestival.com

LOS ANGELES - Haunts of a Dirty Old Man: James Bukowski's Los Angeles. Esotouric offers a tour with narration voted one of the best entertainment values in Los Angeles.  Check in is at 11:30am for a 12pm sharp departure from Philippes The Original near Terminal Annex in L.A. Call: (310) 995-4591. Price: $58. esotouric.com

MALIBU - Actor Ed Begley, Jr. will speak at The MUSE Speaker Series. Ed Begley, Jr., author and actor, is a   committed environmentalist who will discuss ways to reduce the impact individuals can have on the planet. From quick fixes to bigger commitments and long-term strategies, Ed will show how easy it can be to build such changes into everyday life. And with the holiday’s right around the corner, Ed will present “Begley’s Best Gift Picks” of the holiday season, provided by Backstage Creations. Organic appetizers prepared by krEATeLA and wine will be served. Time: 4 to 6 p.m. Cost: $100; $1000 VIP package. Location: Malibu Performing Arts Center, 23825 Stuart Ranch Road, Malibu, CA. Call: (310) 317-0797. RSVP to Felicia Sandovall: fsandoval@museelementary.org.

ONTARIO - Christmas on Euclid. 26th annual event includes a tree lighting ceremony, food purveyors, artisans, health practitioners, and unique independent businesses. Over 100 regional artisans show their wares at Christmas on Euclid and entertainment includes live music, holiday performances, and demonstrations. Children's activities at the event include puppet shows, crafts, video development, farm animals, and pony rides. Time: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Cost: Free. Location: Downtown Euclid Avenue ~ Holt to G Street, Ontario, CA. Call: (909) 984-2458. ontario.org

ORANGE - Christmas Train to Santa's Village. Hop aboard the train in Irvine Regional Park for a starlit, holiday ride to Santa's Village where you can meet Santa, take photos and enjoy many activities. Time: 5 to 8 p.m. Cost: $8, Free under 24 months. Parking for Christmas Train is free after 5 p.m. Santa photos can be purchased, or bring your own camera. Location: 1 Irvine Park Rd., Orange, CA.  Call: (714) 997-3968. irvineparkrailroad.com

OXNARD - A Cinematic Christmas! Oxnard Christmas Parade. Celebrate the Holiday  with a Christmas Parade full of marching bands, music, floats, and lots more. Time: 10 a.m. to Noon.  Cost: Free. Location: Downtown Oxnard: the parade starts at 9th Street and travels north on A Street to 5th; turns left (west) on 5th Street and travels around Plaza Park, turning right (north) on C Street. It turns right (east) on 3rd Street, then right again on B, ending at the intersection of 4th and B Streets.  Call: (805) 385-7895. ci.oxnard.ca.us

OXNARD - Tamale Festival. Sample tamales and watch tamale making demonstrations during the annual Oxnard Holiday Christmas Parade. Authentic home-style tamales are sold while visitors watch the Holiday Parade. A tamale eating contest, live mariachi music, and arts and crafts for the kids are some of the fun activities during the day. There will be raffle prizes including Dodger tickets and Dallas Cowboys' autographed memorabilia. Time: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Cost: Free. Location: Downtown Oxnard, CA. Call:
(805) 483-1750.

PASO ROBLES - Joyful Traditions Holiday Light Parade. Bands, floats, drill teams, Santa Claus, free candy canes, story telling & refreshments are all included in this holiday event. Time: 7 p.m. Cost: Free. Location: Downtown Paso Robles, CA. Call: (805) 238-4103. pasoroblesdowntown.org

POMONA - Harvest Festival. 36th annual event features over 24,000 one-of-a-kind arts and crafts, gourmet foods with free samples and musical entertainment. Artist quality glass art, jewelry, ceramics and gifts sold at this holiday event. Time: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Cost: $9 Adult; $7 Senior 62+; $4 Youth 13-17; Free 12 and under when accompanied by an adult. One ticket is good for all three days. Location: Fairplex - LA County Fairgrounds, 1101 West McKinley Ave., Pomona, CA. havestfestival.com

REDONDO BEACH - Seaside Ice Rink. Public Skating. Santa will be available for pictures from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 5 to 8 p.m. Skate time: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Cost to skate: $12 - 14. Location: Seaside Lagoon, 200 Portofino Way, Redondo Beach, CA. Parking at 181 N. Harbor Drive Call: (310) 318-6300. seasideice.com

SAN DIEGO - Fantasy on Ice. Holiday public ice skating rink at Horton Plaza. Time: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. Location: 225 Broadway, San Diego, CA. sdice.com

SAN DIEGO - Skating by the Sea. Hotel del Coronado resort offers outdoor ice-skating overlooking the Pacific! Time: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.;  2 to 5 p.m. & 6 to 9 p.m. Cost: $20/adult; $15/child age 10 & under; matinee session: $15/adult; $10/child; Skate Rental: $5. Location: 1500 Orange Ave., Coronado Island, CA. hoteldel.com

SAN DIEGO - City Ballet of San Diego's Nutcracker. Time: 2 & 7:30 p.m. Cost: $42 - 62. Location: Spreckels Theatre, 121 Broadway, San Diego, CA. Call: (858) 272-8663. cityballet.org

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO - Tree Lighting Ceremony. Tree Lighting Ceremony.  San Juan Hills High School, Capistrano Valley High School and Ballet Folklorico de San Juan Capistrano will all perform beginning at 4:30pm. The kids from the California Conservatory of the Arts will delight the audience to a dazzling stage performance filled with song and dance. The official lighting of the tree takes place at 5:45 pm and will be followed by a candlelight procession to the Mission San Juan Capistrano. There will be a free train ride at Historic Town Center Park. Time: 4:30 - 9 p.m. Cost: Free, kids rides for a fee. Location: 31852 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, California. Call:  (949) 493-5911. sanjuancapistrano.org

SANTA ANA - The Science of Gingerbread. Discovery Science Center annual exhibit. Study it and build a gingerbread  creation in the Science of Gingerbread. Time: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Cost: $9 - 13, plus $3 parking. Location: 2500 N. Main St., Santa Ana, CA. discoverycube.org

SANTA MARIA - Parade of Lights. Santa Maria's annual holiday parade includes equestrian units, floats, celebrity guests, marching bands and Christmas-themed decorations. Time: 5:15 p.m. Cost: Free. Location: Broadway between Stowell and Town Center Mall, Santa Maria, CA. Call: (805) 937-8521 ext. 225. smparadeoflights.com

SAN LUIS OBISPO - Jack House Christmas. Take a candlelit tour of the historic Jack House, a Victorian treasure decorated for the holidays. Following tour, hot cider and cookies will be served in the kitchen. Candlelit tours Fri & Sat. Special items in Gift Store. Time: 5 to 8 p.m. Cost: $2/person.  Location: 536 Marsh Street, San Luis Obispo, CA. Call: (805) 781-7300. slocity.org

SAN LUIS OBISPO - Christmas in the Plaza Crafts Fair. Annual Holiday Craft Fair of handcrafted items includes over 30 vendors, crafts, food and entertainment. Time: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Cost: Free admission. Location: Mission Plaza,  Chorro & Monterey Street, San Luis Obispo, CA. slocity.org

SAN PEDRO - Holiday Afloat Parade. Annual event in the Port of Los Angeles features Jerilyn López Mendoza who  presides as Grand Marshal for this year’s sparkling spectacular of boats decorated in holiday themes. Viewers are invited to enjoy festive pre-parade events beginning at 3 p.m. at Banning’s Landing Community Center. Time: 6 p.m. Cost: Free. Location: Main Channel, San Pedro, CA. Call: (310) 549-8111.

SOLVANG - Christmas Parade.  Begins at Mission Santa Ines, travels down Mission Drive, turns left on Fourth Place, left on Copenhagen Drive all the way east, and ends at the Post Office on Alisal Road. Time: 11 a.m. to Noon. Solvang, CA. solvangusa.com

TEMPLETON - Cowboy Christmas. Country-themed music, holiday tunes, a visit from Santa, sledding on 10 tons of snow, refreshments, arts, crafts, vendor booths, plus great Farmers Market add up to a whole lotta fun. Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Cost: Free. Location: Templeton Community Park, Templeton, CA. Call: (805) 434-1789. templetonchamber.com

TEMPLETON - The Nutcracker Ballet. North County Dance and Performing Arts foundation in conjunction with Class Act Dance will delight and fascinate audiences with both professional and local dancers. Time: 2 p.m. Cost: $15 - 20. Location: Templeton Performing Arts Center, 1200 S. Main St., Templeton, CA. Call:  (805) 835-1915 or (805) 239-3668.

THOUSAND OAKS - A Christmas Carol Musical. Thousand Oaks Repertory Company Presents a Christmas Carol directed by Allan Hunt and original songs by Rick and Vivian Rhodes with original music score by Rick Rhodes. Time: 2:30 & 7:30 p.m. Cost: $29. Location: Scherr Forum- Thousand Oaks Civic Arts, 2100 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd, Thousand Oaks, CA. Call: (805) 449-2787. civicartsplaza.com

WILMINGTON - Victorian Christmas & Victorian Civil War. Celebrate the holiday season as they did in the 1860's. Held for the seventh year in conjunction with "A Victorian Christmas" at the Banning Residence Museum. Cost: Free. Location: Drum Barracks Civil War Museum 1052 Banning Boulevard Wilmington, CA. Call: Office (310) 548-7509

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