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Thanksgiving is back next week, with Black Friday, Small Business Saturday and Giving Tuesday right on its heels. Then before you know it, Christmas celebrations, Hanukkah festivities and New Year’s events are here.
The Tri-Valley has so many special activities on the schedule all season long in the spirit of the holidays. Here’s our overview of the “Holiday Happenings” on the calendar so far in Pleasanton, Livermore, Dublin, San Ramon and Danville from now through New Year’s weekend:
Photos with Santa at Stoneridge
The ultimate holiday tradition, pictures with Santa Claus, now through Dec. 24 at Stoneridge Shopping Center in Pleasanton. For available dates and times, visit simon.com.
Holiday Ice Rink at City Center
The Kristi Yamaguchi Holiday Ice Rink at City Center Bishop Ranch in San Ramon is open now through Jan. 5 Tickets are purchased per 90-minute session. Visit citycenterbishopranch.com.
City Center Tree Lighting
Kick off the season with the holiday tree lighting and Santa arrival. Performances by the Monte Vista High band, singers and dancers. The event runs from 6-7 p.m. this Friday (Nov. 22) at City Center Bishop Ranch.
Earlier Than The Bird
The pajama shopping tradition is back. Boutique shops will be open with steals, deals and giveaways to make you the best gift giver ever this holiday season. 7-10 a.m. Saturday (Nov. 23).
Church Holiday Boutique
Stop by for holiday shopping where vendors will be selling unique items. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday (Nov. 23) at St. Clare’s Episcopal Church, 3350 Hopyard Road in Pleasanton.
Mony Nop Turkey Drive
Community members are invited to drop off a frozen turkey, gift card or cash donation to help local families facing economic hardship. The Mony Nop Turkey Drop is set for 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday (Nov. 24) in the Livermore City Hall Parking Lot, 1052 S. Livermore Ave.
Tri-Valley Turkey Burn
Join Pleasanton North Rotary’s 10th annual Tri-Valley Turkey Burn, 5K/10K, run, walk, stroll. Thanksgiving morning, Nov. 28, at Ken Mercer Sports Park, 5800 Parkside Drive in Pleasanton. Visit trivalleyturkeyburn.org.
Tri-Valley Community Outreach Thanksgiving Dinner
Join for a traditional sitdown dinner serving families, seniors, military, singles and anyone in need. 12-4 p.m. Thursday (Nov. 28) at St. Raymond Catholic Church, 11555 Shannon Ave., Dublin. Free and no reservation required. To volunteer by donating food, supplies or cook a turkey, go to tvc-thanksgiving.com.
Twas a Girls Night Before Xmas
Guaranteed to resonate with anyone who has survived the holiday season, from the long visits with in-laws to the overcrowded malls, this musical includes classic Christmas songs and contemporary hits that will have everyone singing and dancing along. The show is 7:30 p.m. next Friday (Nov. 29). Visit livermorearts.org.
Danville Lighting of the Old Oak Tree
Watch as Father Christmas and the Snow Angel sprinkle a little magic dust on the Old Oak Tree and bring it to light. Stroll downtown Danville and enjoy refreshments, entertainment and holiday shopping through the festively decorated streets 5:15-8 p.m. Friday (Nov. 29). Visit danville.ca.gov.
Visits with Santa at the Square
Visit Santa on Black Friday and every weekend in front of the large, beautifully decorated Christmas tree for a magical holiday experience filled with joy, a photo and a free gift from Santa — 12-4 p.m., through Dec. 22 at City Center Bishop Ranch.
Small Business Saturday
A day dedicated to supporting local businesses that make the community thrive. Throughout the day, downtown Pleasanton will feature special offers, extended hours and giveaways, perfect for holiday shopping. Nov. 30. Visit pleasantondowntown.net.
Deacon Dave’s Christmas Display
The 40th annual Deacon Dave’s Christmas Display begins Nov. 30 to Jan. 1. Visit casadelpomba.com.
Holiday Youth Music Festival
Performed by the High School Music Collaborative, this festive event at 2 p.m. Nov. 30 promises to fill the heart with holiday cheer and musical joy, featuring a delightful mix of original and classic holiday songs. Visit firehousearts.org.
The Best Intentions Holiday Concert
Join for an evening of pure entertainment and soul-stirring melodies with irresistible harmonies, captivating choreography and a repertoire spanning across decades of Motown classics, old school favorites and contemporary R&B hits. Set for 8 p.m., Nov. 30 at the Village Theatre in Danville. Visit danville.ca.gov/226/Village-Theatre.
God is a Scottish Drag Queen – Christmas Special
This show on Nov. 30 at the Bankhead Theater blends together the nostalgia of holidays gone by, a hilarious and laugh-out-loud look at the holidays of today and a heartwarming and perfectly sweet peek at holidays yet to come. livermorearts.org.
Pet Photos with Santa
Bring pets to pose with Santa at Stoneridge Shopping Center, located on the lower level. 6:30-7:30 p.m., Dec. 1. Visit simon.com
Holiday Sing-A-Long
Join The East Bay Musical Society for a matinee filled with classic holiday songs to ring in the festive season at the Firehouse Arts Center at 2 p.m. Dec. 1. Visit firehousearts.org.
Handel’s Messiah
Pacific Chamber Orchestra’s performance of Handel’s Messiah is a perfect way to welcome the holiday season. Be awed by the soaring, rich vocal tones, the acclaimed soloists and the thunderous 50 voice chorus at the Bankhead — 3 p.m., Dec. 1. Visit livermorearts.org.
Tri-Valley Haven Holiday Donations
Requested donations of cash, gift cards, new toys and gifts for children, teens, women, men and seniors are needed. Drop off 10 a.m to 4 p.m., Dec. 2-6 and 9. A tax-deductible receipt will be provided. Go to Asbury Church, 4743 East Ave. in Livermore. Visit trivalleyhaven.org.
Handling the Holidays
For those who have experienced the death of a loved one, the winter holiday season can be painful. Hope Hospice offers a free workshop to discuss healthy coping strategies from 6-7:30 p.m, Dec. 4. To register, call their Grief Support Department at 925-829-8770.
Dublin Holiday Tree Lighting
Experience the festive energy and lighting of the holiday tree at the Dublin Civic Center where local school choirs and bands set the stage with amazing performances, starting at 6 p.m. Dec. 5 at 100 Civic Plaza.
Downtown’s Magical Holiday Evening
Stroll Downtown Pleasanton’s Main Street and enjoy shopping specials, dining, live music and free photos with Santa & Mrs. Claus at the Museum on Main. Embrace the festive spirit and create unforgettable moments with family and friends at this enchanting event. 5-8 p.m., Dec. 6.
Holiday Village in the Park
Join Livermore Downtown Inc. as they transform Carnegie Park into a magical holiday village. Like a Hallmark Christmas movie, but real. 4-8 p.m., Dec. 6. Visit livermoredowntown.com.
Holiday DancEscape
Kick off the season with friends at the Dublin Senior Center’s annual holiday dance social featuring The Cool Tones Big Band. 6-9 p.m., Dec. 6. Visit dublin.ca.gov/380/Special-Events.
Adopt a Senior for Christmas
Needed donations are non-slip socks, puzzle books, lap blankets, chocolates, butter mints, mesh bags for chocolates and Christmas-themed items. Donate by Dec. 6 to CityServe of the Tri-Valley, 5353 Sunol Blvd., Pleasanton. Visit cityservecares.org.
Deck the Homes in Dublin
Registration for Dublin’s “Deck the Homes” holiday decorating contest is open until 4 p.m., Dec. 6. Winners will receive a gift card to a local business, yard sign and certificate of recognition from the Dublin City Council. Visit dublin.ca.gov/289/Holiday-Events.
Lights of Livermore Holiday Tour
Join for a magical evening of wine tasting and a tour of Livermore Valley’s holiday lights aboard the Wine Trolley, operating from Dec. 6-23. Visit livermorewinetrolley.com.
Pleasanton Hometown Holiday Celebration
The city of Pleasanton Hometown Holiday Celebration begins at 5 p.m. Dec. 7 with a parade of floats, marching bands, community groups and more. 6:45 p.m., tree lighting with musical entertainment and a special appearance by Santa.
Livermore Sights and Sound Parade
Enjoy floats and performances by local businesses, bands, schools, clubs and more with tree lighting to immediately follow. A Livermore tradition not to be missed — 6 p.m., Dec. 7.
Festive Fairy Tales
Join the Livermore-Amador Symphony for an evening full of joyful sounds of the holiday season. Music to warm the heart for the holidays. 8 p.m., Dec. 7. Visit livermorearts.org.
Breakfast with Santa
Santa Claus is coming to Dublin and families are invited to enjoy a hot pancake breakfast served with sausage, fruit, coffee and juice, followed by the arrival of Santa Claus. Santa will pose for holiday photos following each session. 8:30 a.m., 9:45 a.m., 11 a.m., Dec. 7. Shannon Community Center. Visit dublin.ca.gov/289/Holiday-Events
Bah Humbug! 5K Fun Run, Walk & Kids
Get up, get out and get in the holiday spirit on this family run or walk through the streets of San Ramon. Dress in a holiday costume or a favorite exercise outfit. Set for 8:15 a.m., Dec. 7. Register online at SanRamon.ca.gov/FitnessRaces.
Valley Concert Chorale Christmas Celebration
Celebrate the holiday season with traditional favorites in a variety of arrangements inspired by music from around the world. Shows at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 7 in Asbury United Methodist Church and at 4 p.m. Dec. 8 Trinity Lutheran Church. Visit valleyconcertchorale.org.
Holidays in the Vineyards
Join for a Livermore Valley Wine Country tradition and celebrate with Holidays in the Vineyards, and Toys for Tots, where wineries showcase decorated tasting rooms with special wines, arts, crafts, holiday music, activities and more. 12-4:30 p.m., Dec. 7 and 8. Visit lvwine.org.
Caring Santa is Coming to Stoneridge
Exclusively for children with special needs. Reservations are required for this private photo experience. Schedule your photo today. 9-10:30 a.m., Dec. 8. Visit simon.com.
Doo Wop Project Holiday Show
Join in the fun as these talented boys spread holiday cheer with their smooth harmonies and infectious energy, making it a jolly good time for everyone at 3 p.m. Dec. 8 at the Bankhead. Visit livermorearts.org.
Ravenswood Victorian Yuletide
Step back in time and embrace the holiday spirit at a Victorian Yuletide celebration at Ravenswood Historic Site for a festive day that captures the essence of a bygone era. 12-4 p.m., Dec. 8. Visit larpd.org.
Senior (50+) Holiday Luncheon
Enjoy the holiday season by attending this annual catered luncheon which includes door prizes, a festive sweater contest, Santa pictures and live holiday music by Ryan Scripps from “The Voice”. Set for 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Dec. 10. Visit larpd.org.
Americana Christmas
Join Pleasanton Senior Center’s VIP Travel to see “Americana Christmas” at Sierra Rep Theatre in Sonora. This show brings favorite Christmas music with a country twist, as well as some classic bluegrass, gospel and even an original or two with help from the audience. 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Dec. 11. To sign up, visit the Travel Desk.
A Christmas Carol at the Library
Livermore’s community theater group, Encore Players, will present a spirited reading of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” for the whole family. Admission is free, and attendees are encouraged to come dressed in their favorite holiday attire. Show at 7-8 p.m. Dec. 12 in the Civic Center Library.
Holiday Social Sing-a-Long
The Friends of the Pleasanton Senior Center presents this Holiday Social featuring pianist and entertainer Noam Elsen. Join for an afternoon of lively entertainment and delicious desserts. 2:30-4:30 p.m., Dec. 12. To register, call 925-931-5365.
Comfort & Joy-Advent Concert
The Catholic Community of Pleasanton presents the ultimate concert of the season, “Comfort & Joy”, featuring award-winning Catholic composers and musicians Sarah Hart and Steve Angrisano. 7:30 p.m., Dec. 13. Suggested donation $20, children under 18 free at St. Augustine Catholic Church, 3999 Bernal Ave.
Letters to Santa
Write a letter to Santa and he’ll write back. Drop off at Robert Livermore Community Center and write the child’s name and address clearly so Santa knows where to mail his letter. 4446 East Ave. 8:30 a.m. to 6 pm, Mondays to Fridays through Dec. 13.
Sensory Santa: A Gentle, Sensory-Friendly Holiday Event
Sensory Santa allows children with autism and other disabilities to meet Santa in a fun, inviting and sensory-friendly environment that suits their unique needs from 5-7 p.m. Dec. 13 in Livermore. Visit larpd.org.
A Season to Celebrate
Join Livermore High School’s holiday concert and listen to songs that celebrate the season including many holiday classics. Free admission though donations to music boosters’ organization are gratefully accepted. 6-8 p.m., Dec. 13. Livermore High School Theater.
Sing-It-Yourself Messiah
The holiday tradition continues as Valley Concert Chorale hosts its annual Sing-It-Yourself Messiah open to singers of all ages in the community. 7:30 p.m., Dec. 13. Asbury United Methodist Church, 4743 East Ave., Livermore. Visit valleyconcertchorale.org.
Diablo Women’s Chorale
Diablo Women’s Chorale Presents “Feelin’ Good!” This festive program is filled with jazzy, cool and seasonal music showcasing vibrant and uplifting harmonies celebrating the beauty of life’s simple pleasures. 7 p.m., Dec. 13 and 3 p.m., Dec. 15. Lafayette Orinda Presbyterian Church. Visit diablowomenschorale.org.
Toys for Tots Holiday Toy Drive
Drop off new/unwrapped toys at Robert Livermore Community Center through Dec. 13. Toys are donated to the United States Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots program.
Donuts with Santa
Join for a morning of holiday cheer at the Robert Livermore Community Center to meet the Grinch and take pictures with Santa, enjoy donuts, adopt-a-stuffed pet to take home and more. 11:30 a.m., Dec. 14. Visit larpd.org.
Spirit & Sweater Stroll
The Spirit & Sweater Stroll is the perfect opportunity to soak up the festive atmosphere and connect with the community where guests enjoy spirits and craft cocktails at a number of downtown Pleasanton locations. 5-8 p.m., Dec. 14. Visit pleasantondowntown.net
The Nutcracker
Valley Dance Theatre’s full production of “The Nutcracker” at the Bankhead Theater is accompanied by the Valley Dance Theatre Pit Orchestra and entertains with elaborate sets, skilled dancers and beautiful costumes. Performances are Dec. 14-15, 17, 20-22 in the Bankhead. Visit livermorearts.org.
Rusty Relics Holiday Ride
Meet at Norm’s Barber Shop for cookies and hot cocoa then bike to Candy Cane Lane. Prize awarded for most decorated and lit up bike. All ages welcome. 6 p.m., Dec. 14. 164 Main St., Ste. B, Pleasanton.
Christmas with Ballet Roots
Featuring The Academy of Danse Libre, this entertaining holiday show is sure to delight audience members both young and old with the usual array of dances, ranging from classical to contemporary. 2 p.m. and 4 p.m., Dec. 15. Visit firehousearts.org.
Boleros De Navidad
Enjoy this festive Latin holiday celebration blending Christmas classics and beloved Bolero standards. Get ready to sing along and embrace the holiday spirit. 7:30 p.m., Dec. 16. Visit livermorearts.org.
Kings Return Holiday Show
Be mesmerized by this Grammy-nominated acapella group known for their seamless harmonies and captivating vocal chemistry. 7:30 p.m., Dec. 18. Visit livermorearts.org.
Sister’s Christmas Catechism
Retelling the story of the nativity, as only Sister can, employing her own scientific tools, assisted by a carol singer as well as a gaggle of audience members at the Bankhead, 7:30 p.m. Dec. 19. Visit livermorearts.org.
Hanukkah Celebration
Join the Tri-Valley Cultural Jews’ Hanukkah Celebration where the menorah will be lit and latkes fried. Spin the dreidel and enjoy games and crafts with this warm, welcoming community. 5-7 p.m., Dec. 21. For an evite, email culturaljews@gmail.com or call 925-399-8029.
Ho Ho Ho Holiday Carnival
Join LARPD and some of Santa’s helpers for a holiday carnival at Sycamore Grove Park. There will be Midway games, festive arts and crafts, holiday treats and a special meet-and-greet with Santa himself. 5-7:30 p.m., Dec. 21. Visit larpd.org.
A New Orleans Christmas
Celebrate the holidays in style with Jeff Bordes & Friends where this holiday extravaganza brings a unique and festive twist to favorite Christmas classics, infused with the vibrant sounds of New Orleans jazz, funk and blues. Show at the Firehouse at 8 p.m. Dec. 21. Visit firehousearts.org.
Chanukah at Chabad
Chabad of the Tri Valley in Pleasanton is observing Chanukah with services and special activities from Dec. 25 to Jan. 2. For a schedule of events, visit jewishtrivalley.com.
Shabbat Hanukkah at Beth Emek
Join in person or online for the annual Shabbat Hanukkah service and celebrate the third night of Hanukkah with a joyous, song-filled service. If joining in person, arrive early to set up your Hanukkah menorah. 7:30 p.m., Dec. 27. Visit bethemek.org.
Noon Year’s Eve Celebration
Kick off the New Year early with family-friendly fun at this event at LARPD. Join for a lively celebration with games, crafts, dancing and light refreshments with a balloon drop at noon. 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Dec. 31. Visit larpd.org.
Jeff Bordes and Friends: Swinging in the New Year
Get ready for an unforgettable New Year’s Eve with a performance that promises to set the stage for a memorable start to the New Year at 8 p.m. Dec. 31 at the Bankhead. Visit livermorearts.org.
Pleasanton Weekly Holiday Fund
The 24th annual Pleasanton Weekly Holiday Fund campaign gets underway next week and will run until mid-January. With your contributions, the Weekly and its Embarcadero Media Foundation will give grants to 10 nonprofits serving the needs of children, adults and families in the Tri-Valley area. All funds will be held by the foundation and will be tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law. Donate at PleasantonWeekly.com/holiday_fund.
