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Holiday Events from Santa Cruz to Palo Alto
Donation/Volunteer Opportunities:
Angel Tree Program
Bike/Helmet Drive
Campbell Community Toy Program
Charity Christmas Tree Lot
Christmas Tree Elegance
CityTeam Ministries
Community Service Agency
Green Valley Holiday Food Collections
Happy Hollow Park & Zoo
Holiday Book Sale Fundraiser
Holiday Food Drive
Living Christmas Trees Wanted
Loaves and Fishes
Martha's Kitchen
Milpitas Firefighters Holiday Toy/Food Drive
Photos with Santa Claus
Sacred Heart Community Service
St. Joseph's Family Center
Salvation Army Toy Drive
Second Harvest Food Bank
West Valley FISH Pantry
City Celebrations/Tree Lightings:
Carol of Lights Ceremony
Christmas in the Park
Downtown Ice Rink
Festival of Trees
Los Gatos Holiday Events
Love Lights a Tree
Mayor's Tree-Lighting Ceremony
Menlo Park Cares about Cancer and the Family Day
Mountain View Tree Lighting
San Jose Holiday Parade
Snowmen and Sleigh Rides
Tree-Lighting Celebration
Willow Glen Holiday Tree Lighting
For the Kids:
Christmas Seals Contest
Gingerbread House Decorating
Origami Holiday Crafts
Santa Claus
Stories for a Cold Winter's Day
Theater:
A Christmas Carol
A Christmas Carol
A Christmas Memory
Evening in Bethlehem
Fiesta Navidad
Holiday Magic
Inspecting Carol
Nuestra Navidad
The Nutcracker
The Original Nutcracker
La Posada Magica
St. Joseph Cathedral Christmas Play
Santa Clara Ballet's Nutcracker
Shepherd's Play Holiday Classic
Stanford's Nutcracker
Stars on Ice
Tapestry--An Evening of Dances With Song
A Threepenny Christmas
Western Ballet's Nutcracker
Concerts:
Advent and Christmas Music
An Almost Acoustic Christmas
But Thou, O Bethlehem
Christmas Celebration
Christmas Oratorio
A Christmas Remembrance
Christmas TUBAFest
Church of Latter-Day Saints Concerts
Gilroy Christmas Concert
Hallelujah! A Holiday Concert
In the Beauty of Holiness
KTEH Benefit Concert
Messiah Sing
Mid-Peninsula Recorder Orchestra Holiday Concert
Noël! French Music for the Holiday Season
O Magnum Mysterium: Christmas in Venice
Peninsula Women's Chorus
San Jose Brass Quintet Plus One
San Jose Guitar Talent Education
San Jose State University Choraliers
San Jose State University School of Music Scholarship Concert
San Jose Symphony
Santa Clara Chorale
Woodhaven West
You Sing It Messiah
The Young Messiah Farewell Tour
Craft Fairs/Open Houses:
Alexian Brothers Senior Center Open House
American Indian Exposition and Sale
Artful Mama Craft Faire
Azule Crossing Open House
Billy DeFrank Holiday Open House
Candlelight Walk With the Angels
Cheers at the Crow's Nest
Christmas At Our House
Christmas Treasures
A Civil War Family's Historic Christmas
Food and Craft Faire
Foothill College Holiday Fair
Foothill College Winter Ceramics Sale
German Christmas Bazaar
Great Mall Holiday Festivities
Great San Jose Craft Festival
Guglielmo Winery Christmas Gift Fair
Holidays at the Ainsley House
Holiday Art Fair at the Farmers Market
Holiday Faire and Christmas Lane Show
Jewish Singles Network Event
Mirassou Holiday Winetasting
San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge
Santa Cruz Christmas Craft and Gift Festival
Saratoga Parent Nursery School Holiday Fair and Craft Boutique
South Bay Scottish Society Christmas Banquet
Stanford University Holiday Craft Faire
Sunnyvale Town Center
Victorian Christmas
West Valley College Ceramic Art Guild
Wilder Ranch Victorian Holiday Celebration
A Winter Tapestry
Yuletide Fantasies
Classes:
Managing Family Stress
"Un-Frazzle" Yourself
Every Crown Bookstore has a tree decorated with white paper angels representing children in need. Shoppers are encouraged to buy a book for an angel to help promote literacy for these children. Through Dec. Crown Books, various locations throughout the South Bay (714/379-3922).
A local trauma surgeon has collected 150 refurbished bicycles for needy children and hopes to gather more, along with bike helmets for safe riding. This donation is tax-deductible. Items can be delivered to the San Jose Medical Center's Emergency Room at 675 E. Santa Clara St, on the first floor. Cash donations welcome; send to Bike Fund at 275 E. Santa Clara St, #303, San Jose 95112. (408/977-4648).
The Campbell Chamber of Commerce and Santa Clara County Central Fire Protection District host a benefit for the program, which provides toys for children in Campbell's low-income areas and for kids in the Eastfield Ming Quong Foundation. Dec 7, 5-7pm. $10. Gaslighter Theatre, 400 E. Campbell Ave, Campbell. Also: Volunteers are needed to sell tickets, and donations are welcome. (408/378-6252).
Douglas firs, nobles and grand firs are for sale to benefit Via Rehabilitation Services (formerly Crippled Children's Society of Santa Clara County). Nov 24-Dec 17, 10am-8pm. Lark Avenue and Winchester Boulevard, Los Gatos (408/243-7861 x224).
Nov 28-Dec 1: The Valle Monte League presents its 28th annual charity bash. Trees will be awarded at each of eight events throughout the extravaganza, which includes a fashion show by Macy's and the Joe Sharino Band at the Grand Ball. For reservations and ticket information, call Valle Monte League at 735-0504. Red Lion Hotel, 2050 Gateway Place.
CityTeam needs donations of canned food items and frozen turkeys for holiday food boxes for the hungry. The organization also needs donations of new, unwrapped, nonviolent toys for its upcoming Christmas party. Through Dec 23. Drop off at CityTeam Family Service Center, 1297 N. 13th St, San Jose (408/293-4657).
The agency sponsors a Santa Claus Exchange gift shop that allows those in need to select gifts for children and loved ones. CSA needs donations of food for holiday food boxes, as well as new toys, clothes in good condition, and gift items for teens and adults. Volunteers are needed to staff the gift shop. Dec 4-21; call for details (415/964-4630).
Residents of Campbell, Los Gatos, Monte Sereno, Saratoga and Santa Clara County unincorporated neighborhoods served by Green Valley Recycling Company are encouraged to place canned food donations at curbside next to recycling bins on their regular collection day. Donations should be in a clearly marked container. Dec 4-8. The Green Valley Office is also accepting drop-off donations. 573 University Ave, Los Gatos (354-2100).
Bring in a can or box of food per person and receive free admission to Happy Hollow Park & Zoo. All food items collected go to Second Harvest Food Bank. Dec 16, 10am-4pm. Kelley Park, 1300 Senter Rd, San Jose (408/295-8383).
Willow Glen Sunrisers Kiwanis and Hicklebee's Children's Bookstore are selling Children Just Like Me by Barnabus and Annabelle Kindersley, which shows the differences and similarities between children across the globe. Each book costs $20. There will be an additional $5 charge for autographed books. $10 goes to Willow Glen Sunrisers Charity Fund. Call 631-1233.
Sunnyvale Community Services collects donations of nonperishable food to help feed more than 5,200 local residents this season. Nov 24-Dec 24. Drop off at Lower Level near Center Court, Sunnyvale Town Center, Mathilda and Washington avenues, Sunnyvale (408/245-6585).
Donate your living Christmas tree after the holidays to Our City Forest for use in future tree planting projects. Donations accepted on Jan 6, 13 and 20, 10am-1pm. Our City Forest Tree Bank, Jackson and 22nd streets, San Jose (408/277-3969).
The organization needs donations of turkeys, hams, canned goods and other nonperishable food items for Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners for the hungry. Drop off at St. Patrick's Church, 389 E. Santa Clara St, San Jose (408/293-4505).
The soup kitchen needs donations for regular and holiday meals for the hungry, including turkeys, canned ham, ground coffee, salad dressing, sliced mushrooms, cranberry sauce, sliced pears and peaches, hot dogs and chili beans. Also: Donations of canned goods are needed for food boxes. Drop off at 311 Willow St, San Jose (408293-6111).
Local Union 1699 sponsors a holiday collection of food, toys (new and unwrapped) or cash donations to benefit local organizations and needy families. Through Dec 23. Milpitas Community Center (408/942-2470).
The Saratoga Village office of Coldwell Banker, Fox & Carskadon offers parents the chance to have their child photographed with Santa in exchange for a canned food or cash donation to the Saratoga/Los Gatos Board of Realtors' Christmas Can-Tree Project for the Needy. Nov 24, 5-9pm. Coldwell Banker, Fox & Carskadon Offices, Big Basin Way, Saratoga (408/741-2700).
The organization offers a variety of ways to help the needy, including donations of turkeys, canned food, rice, beans and seasonal goodies for holiday food boxes; donations of new toys for the Toy Box program; donations of clean, new or used blankets and baby items. Volunteers to assemble food boxes and to assist parents participating in the Toy Box program are also needed. Through Dec. Call for details. (408/283-5800).
Donations of turkeys, potatoes and canned goods are needed for the center's holiday meals for the hungry. Drop off at 7950 Church St, Gilroy (408/842-6662).
Donations of new toys, turkeys, stuffing mix, cranberry sauce and pies are still needed. Nov 23, 11am-2pm. Drop off at 359 N. Fourth St, San Jose (408/282-1165).
Donations for canned goods are accepted until the end of the holidays at all public libraries, First Interstate Banks, Safeways, Longs Drugs, Tower stores and Goodwill. Drop off center at 750 Curtner Ave, San Jose (800/870-FOOD).
FISH, an organization that distributes food boxes to the hungry, needs telephone volunteers to contact potential clients and welcomes donations of canned food. Call for details. Drop off at St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, 13601 Saratoga Ave, Saratoga (408/356-1557).
The city of Campbell's tree lighting of a 100-foot redwood includes a carol performance by Capri School third-graders and a visit from Santa Claus. Dec 8, 7pm. Campbell Community Center, 1 W. Campbell Ave, Campbell (408/866-2105).
This annual Christmas display is free to the public and open every day during December. Dec 1-Jan 1. Plaza de Cesar Chavez, Market and San Carlos streets, San Jose (408/995-NOEL).
San Jose's first outdoor ice rink features recreational skating and animated holiday displays. Nov 22-Jan 28, 10am-10pm daily (weekends and holidays until midnight). $5.50 per session/$3 skate rental. Market and San Carlos streets, San Jose (800/DOT-SKATE).
Public tree viewing and musical entertainment, an opening-night dinner-dance, Santa's workshop and a luncheon to benefit the Peninsula Children's Center of Palo Alto. Nov 17-15; call for details. Hyatt Rickeys, 4219 El Camino Real, Palo Alto (415/306-0462).
The festivities include the town's traditional tree lighting with a performance by the Los Gatos High band, refreshments and a visit from Santa. Bring a new, unwrapped toy for the community toy drive. Dec 1, 4-7pm at the Post Office Plaza. Los Gatos' annual Christmas parade. Dec 2, 11am. Starts at N. Santa Cruz and Almendra avenues, Los Gatos. (408/354-6834).
The American Cancer Society hosts this annual memorial fundraising event to honor or remember those afflicted with cancer. Colored lights can be purchased and placed on holiday trees during the tree-lighting ceremonies being held at different locations. Through Dec 7. Call for location sites or to purchase tree lights in advance (408/287-5973).
Dec 1, 5:30pm. Plaza de Cesar Chavez, Market and San Carlos streets, San Jose (408/995-NOEL).
A holiday festival to benefit the Cancer Support and Education Center in Menlo Park. Day-long events and the traditional lighting of the giant holiday tree are scheduled downtown. Dec 2, 10am-5:30pm. Various sites in downtown Menlo Park (415/325-2818).
Complete with live holiday music, refreshments and photos with Santa. Canned food donations are accepted for the "Giving Tree" to benefit the Community Services Agency. Dec 6, 6:30-8pm. Free. Civic Center Plaza, 500 Castro St, Mtn View (415/903-6441).
The whole family is invited to watch this festive annual parade celebrating the beginning of the holiday season. Dec 3, noon. Plaza de Cesar Chavez, Market and San Carlos streets, San Jose (408/995-NOEL).
The city of Palo Alto rings in the holidays with 40 tons of snow blanketing Hamilton Avenue, horse-drawn sleigh rides, a visit with Santa and free entertainers. Gifts for the Toys For Kids Drive are collected at each sleigh depot. Nov 30, 6-9pm. Downtown Palo Alto (415/329-2121).
Open to all Cupertino residents, this event features a community sing-a-long and Santa Claus arriving in a fire truck. Canned goods and new toys will be collected for the Cupertino Community Services. Dec 3, 6pm. Quinlan Community Center, Cupertino (408/777-3120).
Lincoln Avenue once again dons its mantle of seasonal cheer. Nov 25, 5:30pm (408/298-2100).
Children ages 6-15 are invited to design the next official Christmas Seal for the American Lung Association. The theme is "Feeling Good at the Holidays," and the grand prize is a multimedia computer system. (408/998-5864).
Parent-and-child teams are welcome at this workshop that provides participants with a house and candies to decorate it with. Directions for making additional houses are also supplied. Call for reservations. Dec 9, 10am-1pm. $20. Prusch Farm Park, San Jose (408/926-5555).
An afternoon of traditional Japanese paper folding with friends and family. Dec 7, 3:30-4:30pm. Free. East San Jose Carnegie Branch Library, 1102 E. Santa Clara St, San Jose (408/998-2069).
Santa visits with children at the historic Santa House. Bring your own camera. Nov 24-Dec 24, noon-4pm. Rancho Shopping Center, Foothill Expressway at Springer and Magdalena roads, Los Altos (415/949-1880).
Local storyteller and family counselor Grace Wakamatsu Fleming spends the afternoon narrating multicultural and multigenerational stories. Dec 2, 2:30-3:30pm. Free. Pearl Avenue Branch Library, 4270 Pearl Ave, San Jose (408/265-7834).
San Jose Children's Musical Theater presents a musical version of this favorite Dickens tale. Dec 8 at 7pm, Dec 9 at 2 and 7pm, Dec 10 at 1 and 6pm, Dec 14-15 at 7pm, Dec 16 at 2 and 7pm, Dec 17 at 1pm. $14/$10. San Jose Civic Auditorium, San Carlos and Market streets, San Jose (408/288-KIDS).
Northside Theatre Company presents a one-of-a-kind adaptation of Dickens' holiday classic. Dec 7-30; call for details. $11/$9. Olinder Theater, William and 18th streets, San Jose (408/288-7820).
A reading of Truman Capote's short story by cast members of Inspecting Carol, the Bus Barn Stage Company's holiday production. Santa Claus visits following the reading. Nov 24 at 11:30am. Rancho Shopping Center, Foothill Expressway and Magdalena Road, Los Altos (415/949-1880).
Dec 2-3: The Willow Glen United Methodist Church will re-create the sights, sounds and excitement of biblical times. $3 for adults, $10 for families. 5:30-8pm. 1420 Newport Ave. Call 294-9796.
The Mexican Heritage Foundation explores the traditions of Christmas in Mexico in this musical and theatrical gala production of the pilgrimage of Joseph and Mary to Bethlehem. Dec 3 at 2pm. $20. San Jose Center for the Performing Arts, Park Avenue and Almaden Boulevard, San Jose (408/292-5197).
A special planetarium program designed for the holidays. Nov 24-25 at 8pm. $6/$5. Minolta Planetarium, De Anza College, 21250 Stevens Creek Blvd, Cupertino (408/864-5791).
The Bus Barn Stage Company presents a holiday comedy about the disasters that ensue as a down-at-the-heels theater company rehearses its politically correct annual fundraiser, A Christmas Carol. Preview: Nov 30 at 8pm. Opening: Dec 1 at 8pm. Plays: Dec 2, 7-9, 14-16, 21-23, 28-30 at 8pm; Dec 3, 10, 17, 31 at 7pm. $8-$17. 97 Hillview Ave, Los Altos (415/941-0551).
Aztlan Academy-San Jos� presents a lively suite of 30 folk dance pieces depicting the Christmas story that explores the synthesis of Christianity with Mexico's indigenous folk cultures. Dec 17-18 at 7:30pm. $5-$10. The Stage Theater, 490 S. First St, San Jose (408/298-7478).
San Jose Dance Theatre presents Tchaikovsky's well-loved holiday ballet, with numerous guest artists in featured roles. Dec 15-17; call for details. San Jose Center for the Performing Arts, 255 Almaden Blvd, San Jose (408/293-5665).
The Kirov Ballet presents this classic Christmas production. Dec 20-21 at 7:30pm, Dec 22-23 at 2 and 7:30pm, Dec 24 at 2pm. $18-$65. San Jose Center for the Performing Arts, 255 Almaden Blvd (BASS).
A Christmas musical play that reenacts the tale of Mary and Joseph and their search for room at an inn with a modern twist. Dec 2-31; call for details. $8-$28.50. Montgomery Theater, San Carlos and Market streets, San Jose (408/291-2255).
A musical presentation of the story of Christmas is enacted with six actors and a children's chorus from local parochial schools. Dec 8-10, 15-17, 22-23; call for details. Free. Courtyard at St. Joseph Cathedral, Market and San Fernando streets, San Jose (408/283-8100).
The ballet performs its 22nd annual production of the classic ballet. Dec 9 at 2 and 7:30pm, Dec 10 at 1 and 5pm. $10.50-$15.50. Santa Clara Convention Center, 5001 Great America Pkwy, Santa Clara (408/264-1462).
El Teatro Campesino presents La Pastorela, a pageant of music, drama and dance recreating the shepherd's journey to Bethlehem to see the newborn King. Performed in Spanish and English. Preview: Nov 24 at 8pm. Opening: Nov 25 at 8pm. Plays Fri-Sat at 8pm, Sun at 4 and 8pm. Benefit performances: Dec 12 and 14 at 8pm. Runs through Dec 17. $6-$15. Old Mission Pueblo, 705 Fourth St, San Juan Bautista (408/623-2444).
The Stanford Ballet and the Stanford Symphony Orchestra present the holiday classic. Dec 8-9 at 8pm. $12/$6. Dinkelspiel Auditorium, Stanford (415/723-4317).
The 10th anniversary showcase features performances by Kristi Yamaguchi, Scott Hamilton, Katarina Witt and Paul Wylie. Dec 28; call for details. San Jose Arena, 525 W. Santa Clara St, San Jose (BASS).
The Foothill Repertory Dance Company presents it annual winter student showcase. Dec 9 at 8pm. $5-$10. Robert Smithwick Theater, 12345 El Monte Rd, Los Altos Hills (415/949-7354).
West Valley College presents a musical fantasy about a group of gangsters who dress up as Santas to steal presents from the rich to give to the poor. Dec 8-9, 14-16 at 8pm, Dec 10 at 7pm, Dec 9, 16-17 at 2pm. $8/$6. West Valley College Theatre, 14000 Fruitvale Ave, Saratoga (408/741-2058).
This production of the classic holiday ballet features guest artists from the San Francisco Ballet. Dec 8 at 7:30pm, Dec 9 at 2 and 7:30pm, Dec 10 at 1:30 and 6pm. MainStage, Mountain View Center for Performing Arts, Castro and Mercy streets, Mtn View (415/903-6000).
The First United Methodist Church of Campbell hosts three holiday concerts with local organists. Dec 1, 8 and 15, 12:30pm. 1675 Winchester Blvd, Campbell (408/378-3472).
KOME hosts this holiday concert with Oasis, Goo Goo Dolls, Radiohead, Everclear and many more bands in a benefit to help fight AIDS. Dec 16. $20 (sold out). San Jose State Event Center, Seventh and San Carlos streets, San Jose (BASS).
The Saratoga Latter-day Saints Choir performs an original Christmas cantata by a local composer. Dec 17, 7:30pm. Free. Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 19100 Allendale Ave, Saratoga (408/378-9257).
This annual program features the church's choir, hand bell choir, orchestra and cast in a holiday musical presentation. Dec 2-3, 7pm. $6/$3. Music Ministry of First Presbyterian Church of Mountain View, 1667 Miramonte Ave, Mtn View (415/968-4473).
The Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra performs the final three cantatas of Bach's Christmas Oratorio. The concert is the debut of the Philharmonia Chorale. Dec 13, 8pm. $23-$33. First Methodist Church, Hamilton and Webster streets, Palo Alto (415/392-4400).
The concert features holiday music with the Los Altos High School Main Street Singers, Ringmasters, Veronica McInerney and Ted Sanchez. Proceeds benefit the formation expenses of newly ordained priests for the Diocese of San Jose. Dec 3, 2pm. St. Lucy Church, 2350 Winchester Blvd, Campbell (408/253-0375).
Tubists are invited to play at this 14th annual holiday concert. Participants should bring an instrument, a pencil and a music stand. Trumpet and French horn players are also welcome. Dec 2, registration at 11am, performances at 4 and 5pm. $7 ($5 adv). Eastridge Mall, Tully Road and Capitol Expressway, San Jose (408/377-3493).
The Palo Alto Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints hosts a series of holiday concerts in conjunction with its annual cr�che exhibit, including a sing-along on Dec 1 and organ and choir music on Dec 4. Dec 1-4. Cr�che hours: 11am-8pm. Concerts at 8pm. Free. 3865 Middlefield Rd, Palo Alto (415/494-8899).
A concert of Christmas music with performances by the South Valley Symphony Orchestra, Gilroy High School Chamber Singers, Gilroy Children's Honor Choir and Conservatory Children's Choirs. Dec 2, 8pm. Free, donations accepted. Gilroy Presbyterian Church, Gilroy (408/776-7499).
The Silicon Valley Gay Men's Chorus' first concert of the season features old and new favorites. Dec 9, 8pm; Dec 10, 3pm. $15/$12; VIP ticket $25. Le Petit Trianon, 72 N. Fifth St, San Jose (408/275-6344).
Trinity Concert Series and the California Bach Society present a selection of Christmas music to celebrate the season. Dec 10, 2:30pm. $12/$8. Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, 330 Ravenswood Ave, Menlo Park (415/328-0393).
The Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra and the Santa Clara Chorale perform a program of holiday music with proceeds benefiting KTEH public television. Bring canned food to donate to Second Harvest Food Bank. Dec 6, 7:30pm. $25-$100. San Jose Arena, 525 W. Santa Clara St, San Jose (BASS).
Schola Cantorum presents a traditional holiday sing-along. Dec 3, 7pm. $12.50/$8. Also: Joy to the World, a holiday concert of festive choral music. Dec 16, 8pm and Dec 17, 2pm. $6-$18. Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts, 500 Castro St, Mtn View (415/903-6000).
A program of works for recorders and solo voice by Bach, Handel, Mozart and others. Dec 3, 2pm. Mission San Jose, 43300 Mission Blvd, Fremont (415/591-3648).
The Stanford Music Department presents a holiday celebration with the Peninsula Symphony Orchestra, Stanford Symphonic Chorus and San Jose Symphonic Chorus performing holiday selections from Poulenc, Bizet and others. Dec 2, 8pm and Dec 3, 2pm. $12/$6. Memorial Church, Stanford (415/723-4317).
Magnificat presents the music of Giovanni and Andrea Gabrieli in this re-creation of a festive Christmas mass from St. Mark's. The Whole Noyse, a renowned early wind ensemble, also performs. Dec 1, 8pm. $10-$16. Le Petit Trianon, 72 N. Fifth St, San Jose (415/979-4500).
The program includes a performance of Benjamin Britton's Ceremony of Carols and Kirke Mechem's Seven Joys of Christmas and R. Murray Schafer's Snowforms. Dec 8, 8pm at Los Altos United Methodist Church, Foothill Expressway and Magdalena Road, Los Altos. Dec 15-16, 8pm at St. Patrick's Seminary, 320 Middlefield Rd, Menlo Park. Tickets for all performances: $12/$8. (415/322-3100).
Festive brass arrangements of carols and holiday favorites. Bring gifts for needy preschool children, wrapped with red ribbon for girls and green ribbons for boys. Dec 10, 7pm. $8-$16. Le Petit Trianon Concert Hall, 72 North Fifth St, San Jose. (408/286-5111).
Annual holiday concert featuring the works of Bach, Joplin, Giuliani and other composers of the classical guitar. Dec 10, 3pm. Santa Teresa Hills Presbyterian Church, 5370 Snell Ave, San Jose (408/363-9192).
The choral group performs a program of Christmas music. Dec 17, 7pm. Campbell First United Methodist Church, 1675 Winchester Blvd, Campbell (408/924-4332).
This 20th anniversary concert features holiday selections from Mozart, Diemer and others. Dec 1-2, 8pm. St. Joseph Cathedral, 90 S. Market, San Jose (408/924-4662).
The symphony presents a trio of holiday concerts: America the Beautiful, Nov 24-25; A Christmas Celebration, a program of holiday music featuring the SJSU Chorale, Dec 16; Masquerade In Vienna, a selection of music by L�har, Strauss and Supp�, Dec 30. All performances begin at 8pm. Flint Center, 21250 Stevens Creek Blvd, Cupertino (408/288-2828).
The chorale's Christmas Around the World includes traditional holiday music and dance. Dec 1-2, 8pm. $8-$12. Mission Santa Clara, Santa Clara University (408/236-2241).
The acclaimed folk group Golden Bough performs a program of traditional and original holiday folk music. Dec 8, 7:30pm. $8/$6. First United Methodist Church, 19 High School Ct, Los Gatos (408/354-4730).
The San Jose Symphonic Choir presents one of the Bay Area's largest and most popular sing-alongs to Handel's holiday masterpiece. Dec 11, 7:30pm. $15/$12. San Jose Center for the Performing Arts, Almaden Boulevard and Park Avenue, San Jose (408/246-1160).
An evening of favorite Christmas carols and the all new version of Handel's Messiah. Nov 24, 7:30pm. Tickets: $15.50-$26.50. San Jose Arena, 525 Santa Clara St, San Jose (BASS).
The center hosts a holiday open house that allows guests to meet the medical staff and enjoy food and jazz entertainment. Dec 12, 9am-1pm. 1084 Lincoln Ave, San Jose (408/279-2604).
A contemporary arts and crafts show featuring the works of more than 45 prominent Native American artists, craftspeople and traders. Dec 1, 2-7pm; Dec 2, 10am-7pm; Dec 3, 11am-5pm. $4.75/$2. Santa Clara County Fairgrounds, 344 Tully Rd, San Jose (408/494-3247).
Boutique-quality gifts on sale include handcrafted ceramics, wooden furniture and floral decorations. Dec 1, 10am-2pm. Parents Nursery School, 2328 Louis Rd, Palo Alto (415/424-1446).
The event features antiques, collectibles, original art and accessories for the home, as well as Santa Claus and carolers. Complimentary refreshments are provided. Dec 1, 5-9pm. 12378 Saratoga-Sunnyvale Rd, Saratoga.
The Billy DeFrank Lesbian and Gay Community Center hosts a holiday open house featuring a potluck luncheon. AA meetings are held throughout the day and the event is co-sponsored by P-FLAG, High Tech Gays and Pro-Latinos. Dec 25, noon-7pm. Luncheon at 2pm. 175 Stockton Ave, San Jose (408/293-2429).
Live harp music, poetry and refreshments are featured at this holiday celebration. Guests are encouraged to light a candle for peace. Dec 3, 7-9pm. Free. Angel de las Flores, 318 B N. Santa Cruz Ave, Los Gatos (408/354-3375).
The Crow's Nest restaurant hosts a benefit holiday dinner for the Friends of the Long Marine Lab. Dec 7, 5:30-11:30pm. The Crow's Nest, Santa Cruz (408/476-4560).
A tour of four decorated homes, sponsored by the Women's Club of St. Francis High School. The tour includes holiday entertainment, boutique and prizes, plus a complimentary tea. Children over 12 welcome. Proceeds benefit Vision 2000-Technology in the Classroom. Dec 1-2, 10am-3pm. $30/$25. Twilight Tour and Preview Party, Nov 30, 5pm. $60. (415/968-1213).
Holiday gift-giving and decorating items are for sale at the Gallery Saratoga, including paintings, photography, sculpture, silks, art glass, greeting cards, ornaments and other original art. Through Dec 31. Tue-Sun, 10am-6pm. Free. Saratoga Village, 14531 Big Basin Way, #3, Saratoga (408/867-0458).
Holiday festivities include Victorian-style dolls and decorations of the late 1800s and the Las Posadas Christmas table reflecting the Spanish and Mexican influence. $3-$6. Dec 1-Jan 7; Wed-Sun, 11am-4pm. Peralta Adobe and Fallon House Historic Site, 175 W St. John St, San Jose (408/993-8182).
C.J. Olson Cherries presents its fresh bing cherries for the holidays, plus a variety of holiday baskets and a bake sale. Dec 9, 9:30am-6:30pm (408/736-3726).
The Associated Students of Foothill College host a fair that features gifts, crafts, cards and ornaments. Nov 29-30, 8am-4pm. 12345 El Monte Rd, Los Altos Hills (415/949-7258).
Foothill ceramic students hold their annual sale. Dec 4-7, 10am-3pm. Campus Center Bookstore, 12345 El Monte Rd, Los Altos Hills (415/949-7584).
The third annual event features a variety of handicrafts and Christmas ornaments, storytime for children, Christmas carols and German snacks and refreshments. Dec 2, 11am-4pm. The German-American School, 275 Elliott Dr, Menlo Park (415/324-8617).
49er football star Keena Turner welcomes Santa and Rudolph in the Eats Court. Nov 24, 8:30am. Second Harvest Food Bank holiday food drive benefits community organizations throughout Santa Clara. Nov 23-Dec 24. Holiday Toy Drive benefits those in need. Dec 1-21. A Tree Lighting Ceremony is hosted by Visiting Nurses Association and Hospice of Northern California. Dec 3. Great Mall of the Bay Area, Montague Expressway, between Highways 680 and 880, Milpitas (408/956-2033).
A fine art and craft festival with three stages of entertainment featuring music, magic, juggling and puppet shows. Dec 9-10. $2-$5. San Jose Convention Center, W. San Carlos and Market streets, San Jose (619/731-9371).
The seventh annual fair features wooden and wicker gift sets, gourmet food and wine tasting and complimentary hot-mulled wine. Dec 2-3, 10am-5pm. 1480 E. Main Ave, Morgan Hill (408/779-2145).
The Campbell Museum Foundation presents tours of the Ainsley House decorated for the holiday season. Holidays teas for groups by reservation only. Nov 30-Dec 17, Thu-Sun. $2-$6. Ainsley House, Grant Street, Campbell (408/866-2119).
Holiday cooking demonstrations, citrus tastings, carolling, arts and crafts and festive music are featured at this market. Saturdays, Dec 3-24, 9am-1pm. Murphy and Washington avenues, Sunnyvale (800/897-FARM).
Activities for children and adults include train rides, a Holiday Mart and entertainment. Proceeds benefit youth scholarship programs. Nov 24-26. $3-$5 or $10 for families. $1 discount off each admission for canned food donations. Santa Clara County Fairgrounds, 344 Tully Rd, San Jose (408/298-2644).
The third annual Chanukah Gala celebrates the festival of lights with hors d'oeuvres, refreshments and a free psychic reading. Dec 16, 8pm. Temple Emanu-el, 1010 University Ave, San Jose (408/358-3636 x54).
Guests are encouraged to come in costumes of the Victorian period to enjoy hot mulled wine in the Mirassou cellars and live seasonal entertainment. $7/$3/free 10 and under. Nov 25-26, noon-4pm. Mirassou Winery, Aborn Road, San Jose (408/274-4000).
Various family events to celebrate the holidays include: "Decorating for the Birds," Dec 3, noon-3pm; "Salt Marsh Gifts Walk," Dec 9, 1-3pm; "Protectors of the Bay, Part I," Dec 17, 1-3pm. All programs are free. Environmental Education Center, Grand Boulevard, Alviso (510/792-4275).
Set in a Victorian theme, this Thanksgiving weekend festival features more than 85 artists and craftspeople. Food, drink and full bar available. Nov 24-26, 10am-5pm. $4. Cocoanut Grove, 400 Beach St, Santa Cruz (408/423-5590).
This fundraising event is organized by the Saratoga Parent Nursery School and features a craft boutique, Santa's photo shop, face painting and Astrojump for the kids. Dec 2, 10am-3pm. Free. Saratoga Parent Nursery School, 14592 Oak St, (408/867-9774).
Celebrate Christmas in true Scottish tradition with dancing, entertainment, prizes and more. A variety of dinner choices are available and reservations are required. Bring a child's gift to donate to Toys for Tots. Dec 8, 6:30pm. $30. Three Flames Restaurant, 1547 Meridian Ave, San Jose (408/370-6310).
Handcrafted gifts from more than 100 artisans, international food booths, and caroling by local musicians. Dec 1-3, 10am-5pm. Tresidder Memorial Union, Stanford.
Holiday activities include a food drive, gift-wrapping services, a "giving tree," musical entertainment and visits from Santa Claus. Various dates and times. Sunnyvale Town Center, Mathilda and Washington avenues, Sunnyvale (408/245-6585).
This family celebration is hosted by the San Jose Historical Museum and features live musical entertainment, trolley car rides, horse-drawn wagons and hot roasted chestnuts. Dec 9-10, 10am-4pm. $4-$6. Parking $3. 1600 Senter Rd, San Jose (408/287-2290).
The guild holds its annual Christmas sale featuring works by West Valley students. Nov 28-29, 9am-2pm. Student Union, West Valley College, 14000 Fruitvale Ave, Saratoga (408/266-1791).
Kick off the holiday season with a day of music, holiday crafts, historical demonstrations, house tours, carriage rides and more. Dec 2, 10am-4pm. Wilder Ranch State Park, 1401 Coast Rd, Santa Cruz (408/426-0505).
Share in the spirit of the holidays with this sales gallery of original fine arts and crafts. Proceeds benefit the community arts outreach programs serving local human service agencies. Nov 24-Dec 23. Open daily. Kensington Art Centre, 347 E. Campbell Ave, Campbell (408/293-9727).
A three-day art, craft and gift show featuring Victorian-styled collectibles, gourmet foods, candy, toys, children's furniture and more. Dec 1, 10am-9pm; Dec 2, 10am-7pm; Dec 3, 10am-5:30pm. Free. Palo Alto Women's Club, 475 Homer, Palo Alto (510/317-9582).
Dec 1,1-2pm: Alexian Brothers Senior Health Center offers seminars free to the community on the first Fri. of every month. This month, Geriatric Nurse Practitioner Gwendolyn Gill, MSN, and Medical Social Worker Devicka Yankasammy, Senior Health Center, will present this seminar for family stress. To register, call 279-2604.
Dec 2, 9, 16: Enjoy a seminar to help survive this busy season with serenity. Dec 2, will be on "Short-Circuiting Frustration and Relaxation Techniques." Dec 9 will cover "Holidays Without Hangovers" and "Chi Gung-Body Movement." Dec 16 topics are "Humor and Reducing Family Friction." Stress assessments are available. Seminars are at 10am and 11am. Admission is a can of food per workshop, for the Second Harvest Food Bank. Reserve space at Process Therapy Institute, 358-2218.
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