December is a busy month for any city, and if visiting San Francisco at this time of the year, then there are definitely some holiday events you may want to keep in mind as you plan your day(s) in the City by the Bay. San Francisco holiday celebrations and events are numerous and varied, covering both the traditional and non-traditional and most certainly the festive and fun. Here's a rundown of some key events and dates.
Performing Arts
For anyone interested in spending the San Francisco holiday season being entertained by a great theater show, a symphonic masterpiece, or a classical ballet, then you're in luck, the city just so happens to have all three and more.
Through December 30
Jersey Boys
Kicking off the season is the return of the beloved musical Jersey Boys, arriving back in town Nov. 20th (with the tour's 3rd company) for a special 38-performance stint that takes us through the end of the year.
December 5-23
A Chrismas Carol
This holiday tradition retells the famous Dickens story of Ebenezer Scrooge and his re-awakening to a world of giving, generosity, and happiness. See the American Conservatory Theatre's presentation of A Christmas Carol, a timeless tale addressing the past, the present and future. Tickets are $12 - $55.
December 9-30
The San Francisco Symphony's Holiday Concerts
It begins with the Deck the Hall holiday party on December 9 and continues on through the end of the year, with holiday highlights to include: George Frideric Handel's Messiah, a screening of The Wizard of Oz with a live orchestra, and a New Year's Eve Gala to usher in 2008.
December 13-30
Nutcracker, presented by the San Francisco Ballet
A favorite each season, don't miss the San Francisco Ballet's historical telling of Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker, the story of Drosselmeyer, the toymaker, and his titular gift. The Sugar Plum Fairy and the Snow King and Queen are ready to dance to the delight of Clara and her nutcracker-turned-magical prince. Approx. running time is 2 hours. Tickets are $18 to $160, for standing-room (day of show) to center box seats.
(There will also be eight family performances, where the first 500 children to arrive will receive a special gift.)
Through December 23
YBCA: The Velveteen Rabbit / The Christmas Ballet
At the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts in S.F., The Velveteen Rabbit is presented in contemporary-dance form (Nov. 23-Dec. 9); afterwards The Christmas Ballet by Smuin Ballet will take over the stage through Dec. 23. The ballet will introduce three new dances - Blue Christmas, Winter Weather, and Cajun Christmas - to three archived favorites.
Through January 20, 2008
KOOZA from Cirque du Soleil
On November 16, Cirque du Soleil revealed a new production KOOZA, the story of The Innocent, who attempts to find his place in this world. The show brings Cirque back to its roots, combining two traditions: acrobatic performance and the art of clowning. On sale through Dec. 30.
Lighted Trees and More
Speaking of the outdoors, the San Francisco holiday spirit will be on full display by late November with the city’s annual tree-lighting ceremonies. From Pier 39 (Nov. 18) to Union Square (Nov. 23) to Ghirardelli Square (Nov. 23), San Francisco has a beautiful tradition of holiday illuminations that never fails to impress.
Outdoor Events
As for spending some of your San Francisco holiday out in the crisp, winter-y air, there are a number of ways. From the Holiday Ice Rink at Embarcadero Center (Nov. 7-Jan. 15) to the first-ever ice show at AT&T Park, the “Brian Boitano Skating Spectacular” on Dec. 5. There’s also the annual family find “Reindeer Romp” at the San Francisco Zoo beginning Nov. 18. See live reindeer Holly, Velvet, Peppermint, and Belle!
December 28
The Emerald Bowl
One of the NCAAF many bowls, the Emerald Bowl will match the top teams from the ACC and Pac-10, to be decided at AT&T Park. Teams to be determined soon.
Through March 3, 2008
Color: A Winter Carnivale
With the Conservatory of Flowers, the outdoors is of course brought inside. During your visit to Golden Gate Park, plan a stop by the beauiful Conservatory, as it will be bursting with colorful flowers in its very own “carnivale.” The exhibition began Nov. 20 and will last through next spring.
Festive Fairs
And then there are the fairs and festivals that bring everyone together for some good cheer and a celebration of the season.
December 1
Union Street Festival Fantasy of Lights
The start of a month-long celebration on Union Street. On Dec. 1, be there for the special lighting ceremony benefiting the San Francisco Firefighters' Toy Program. A mini-parade, carolers, and millions of tiny white lights will kick off the holiday season on this historic street of San Francisco. See the Victorians illuminate.
December 8
Fifth Annual Parol Lantern Festival
Hundreds of hand-crafted parol lanterns will brighten the night in this traditional celebration by the Bay Area's Filipino community. The parade of lanterns is to signify holiday spirit, hope, unity, and pride.
Through December 23
The Great Dickens Christmas Fair
While A.C.T. presents the timeless play of A Christmas Carol, the Great Dickens Christmas Fair will be throwing an all-out (af)fair that aims to recreate a Victorian Christmas reminscent of that time. The fair is held for five consecutive weekends beginning with Thanksgiving (Nov. 23).
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