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Slideshow: The vibe was festive at the 2024 Tri-Valley Turkey Burn. The Pleasanton North Rotary walk/run fundraiser returns next week on Thanksgiving morning. (Photo by Chuck Deckert) 
The vibe was festive at the 2024 Tri-Valley Turkey Burn. The Pleasanton North Rotary walk/run fundraiser returns next week on Thanksgiving morning. (Photo by Chuck Deckert) 
The vibe was festive at the 2024 Tri-Valley Turkey Burn. The Pleasanton North Rotary walk/run fundraiser returns next week on Thanksgiving morning. (Photo by Chuck Deckert) 
The vibe was festive at the 2024 Tri-Valley Turkey Burn. The Pleasanton North Rotary walk/run fundraiser returns next week on Thanksgiving morning. (Photo by Chuck Deckert) 
The vibe was festive at the 2024 Tri-Valley Turkey Burn. The Pleasanton North Rotary walk/run fundraiser returns next week on Thanksgiving morning. (Photo by Chuck Deckert) 
The vibe was festive at the 2024 Tri-Valley Turkey Burn. The Pleasanton North Rotary walk/run fundraiser returns next week on Thanksgiving morning. (Photo by Chuck Deckert) 
The vibe was festive at the 2024 Tri-Valley Turkey Burn. The Pleasanton North Rotary walk/run fundraiser returns next week on Thanksgiving morning. (Photo by Chuck Deckert) 
The vibe was festive at the 2024 Tri-Valley Turkey Burn. The Pleasanton North Rotary walk/run fundraiser returns next week on Thanksgiving morning. (Photo by Chuck Deckert)
The season is upon us, whether we’re ready or not. Thanksgiving is next Thursday. Then it’s Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, Cyber Monday and Giving Tuesday in quick succession before Hanukkah festivities, Christmas celebrations and New Year’s events come and go.
There are so many special activities across the Tri-Valley all holiday season long. 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:
Holiday Ice Rink
The Kristi Yamaguchi Holiday Ice Rink at City Center Bishop Ranch in San Ramon is now through Jan. 4 Tickets are purchased per 90-minute sessions. Visit citycenterbishopranch.com
Santa Photos at Stoneridge
The ultimate holiday tradition awaits. Don’t miss Santa pictures at Stoneridge Shopping Center where walk ups are welcome every day until closing time. Now through Dec. 24. For reservations visit simon.com.
Winter Glow Experience: A Drive-Thru Holiday Light Show
Experience the magic of the holiday season with the Winter Glow Experience, a dazzling drive-thru spectacular featuring hundreds of larger-than-life festive displays. Bundle up and enjoy a synchronized light show along a 1-mile holiday route. Now through Jan. 4 at the Alameda County Fairgrounds in Pleasanton. Visit alamedacountyfair.com.
City Center Tree Lighting
Join at City Center Bishop Ranch for the Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony and delight in the sounds of the season with performances by the Monte Vista Band and singers, all leading up to Santa’s arrival. 6-7 p.m. this Friday (Nov. 21).
Earlier Than The Bird
The pajama shopping tradition is back in downtown Livermore. 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. 22).
Messiah Workshop
Valley Concert Chorale hosts this workshop for singers interested in working on the choruses from the Christmas portion of Handel’s masterpiece. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday (Nov. 22). Asbury United Methodist Church. Visit valleyconcertchorale.org.
Adopt a Senior
CityServe of the Tri-Valley has organized an “Adopt a Senior” program this holiday season, compiling a list of nearly 200 seniors who would benefit from a home visit and a Christmas gift bag. Interested contributors can learn more by visiting bit.ly/2025-adoptsr.
Pet Photos with Santa at Stoneridge Mall
Bring pets to pose with Santa at the Grand Court near the Apple store where photos will be taken and available for purchase. Reservations are not required. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Sunday (Nov. 23).
Interfaith Interconnect Thanksgiving Service
The annual Interfaith Thanksgiving Service brings together the faith community of Pleasanton and Livermore for shared prayers of gratitude bridging various religious congregations: Jewish, Christian, Muslim, Hindu and many more. 3:30 p.m. this Sunday (Nov. 23). Asbury United Methodist Church, 4743 East Ave., Livermore.
Stocking Stuffer Donations
Stockings filled with small toys, treats, or essentials for children, teens and adults or gift cards from Safeway, Grocery Outlet, Walmart and Target can be dropped off 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., weekdays at Tri-Valley Haven 3663 Pacific Ave., Livermore. Now until Dec. 10. Visit trivalleyhaven.org.
Mony Nop Turkey Drop
Community members are invited to drop off a frozen turkey, gift card or cash donation to help local families facing economic hardship. Set for 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday (Nov. 23) in the Livermore City Hall parking lot, 1052 S. Livermore Ave.
Winter 2025 Recitals
A full day of performances featuring students from the San Ramon Academy of Music, audiences will enjoy a wide range of solo works performed by students of all ages and levels. The evening concludes with the San Ramon Young Virtuoso Concert, a special showcase spotlighting standout soloists and the San Ramon Chamber Ensemble. All day next Sunday (Nov. 23) at the Dougherty Valley Performing Arts Center.
Visit with Santa at the Square
Visit Santa 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. Now through Dec. 21 at City Center Bishop Ranch.
Pleasanton Weekly Holiday Fund
The 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.
Thanksgiving Prayer Breakfast
Join as community members from local churches, businesses, government, schools and nonprofits come together to pray, celebrate, and seek greater impact in our region while serving the most vulnerable in our community. 7-9 a.m. Monday (Nov. 24). DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel. Visit cityservecares.org.
Turkey Trot and Canned Food Drive
Kick off the morning with a fun, free and informal 5K run led by the Livermore Youth Council. The trot begins at the Sycamore Grove Equestrian Parking area near the Wetmore Entrance. Participants are encouraged to bring canned food donations for Open Heart Kitchen. 8 a.m. Wednesday (Nov. 26). Sign up at larpd.org.
Tri-Valley Turkey Burn
Join Pleasanton North Rotary’s annual Thanksgiving morning Tri-Valley Turkey Burn, 5K/10K, run, walk, stroll. Set for next Thursday (Nov. 27) in Ken Mercer Sports Park, 5800 Parkside Drive, Pleasanton, the first race gets underway at 9 a.m. Visit trivalleyturkeyburn.org.
Bishop Ranch Turkey Trot
On Thanksgiving Day (Nov. 27), the community is invited to participate in the Bishop Ranch Turkey Trot in San Ramon, featuring chip-timed races around the lakes and gardens, and a family-friendly festival. The 5K race begins at 8:30 a.m., while the 0.05K dash for little kids is set for 9:30 a.m. Learn more at bishopranchturkeytrot.com.
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. 27). St. Raymond Catholic Church, 11555 Shannon Ave., Dublin. Free and no reservation required. To volunteer by donating food, supplies or cook a turkey, visit tvc-thanksgiving.com.
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 p.m. next Friday (Nov. 28). Visit danville.ca.gov.
Museum on Main Christmas Market
Join at Pleasanton’s Museum on Main for a Christmas Market where talented local crafters will sell high-quality gifts from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. next Saturday (Nov. 29). Grab a snack from the Cub Scouts and listen to live music while sipping hot chocolate and visiting Santa from 12-4 p.m., at 603 Main St.
Small Business Saturday
Shop Small Business Saturday is an exciting event to celebrate and support local businesses in Pleasanton. Downtown Pleasanton businesses will participate offering special discounts on shopping, dining and services. 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., next Saturday (Nov. 29).
A New Orleans Christmas
Kick off the holiday season with the energy and spirit of a New Orleans Second Line Parade as Jeff Bordes & Friends bring a fresh, high-energy take on holiday favorites, blending the sounds of funk, blues, swing and more. 8 p.m. next Saturday (Nov. 29) at the Bankhead Theater in Livermore. Visit livermorearts.org.
The Best Intentions Holiday Concert
Start the holiday season on a high note with The Best Intentions Holiday Concert at the Village Theatre in Danville and experience soulful harmonies, dynamic choreography and a set list full of holiday tunes with a Motown, old school and R&B twist. 8 p.m. next Saturday (Nov. 29).
Handel’s Messiah
Pacific Chamber Orchestra’s traditional and uplifting presentation of part I and favorites from parts II and III is a perfect way to begin the holiday season. 3 p.m. Sunday (Nov. 30) at the Bankhead. Visit livermorearts.org.
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. Dec. 1-11. Visit larpd.org/letters-to-santa.
Handling the Holidays
Hope Hospice offers this free workshop as a safe space to discuss the unique considerations of grieving during the winter holiday season. 12-1:30 p.m. and 6:30-7:30 p.m., Dec. 2. To register, call 925-829-8770 or submit an inquiry form at HopeHospice.com/grief.
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. 6-8 p.m., Dec. 4.
Finding Frosty
Get ready for an exciting adventure in downtown Pleasanton with the Finding Frosty Scavenger Hunt. Pick up a map at Five Little Monkeys toy store or Towne Center Books and drop off or mail completed squares to Pleasanton Downtown Association, 333 Division St. from Dec. 5-19.
Magical Holiday Evening
Experience the magic of the holiday season in downtown Pleasanton on Division Street to capture cherished memories with free photos alongside Santa and Mrs. Claus at the Museum on Main and enjoy a variety of family friendly activities and live music. 4-7 p.m., Dec. 5.
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. Dec. 5-23. Visit livermorewinetrolley.com.
Livermore Holiday Village in the Park
Join as Carnegie Park is turned into a magical holiday village, like a Hallmark Christmas movie, but real. 4-8 p.m., Dec. 5. Visit livermoredowntown.com.
Sing-It-Yourself Messiah
Join Valley Concert Chorale for this Sing-It-Yourself Messiah, 7:30 p.m., Dec. 5. Asbury United Methodist Church, Livermore. Visit valleyconcertchorale.org.
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. 8:15 a.m., Dec. 6. Register online at SanRamon.ca.gov/FitnessRaces.
Holiday Art Fair
Shop for art and fine handcrafts in front of the Bankhead Theater. Open to the public. 1-5 p.m., Dec. 6. 2400 First St., Livermore.
‘Ohana Kalikimaka
Experience the beauty, joy and spirit of Christmas with ‘Ohana Kalikimaka: A Family Style Christmas Celebration, featuring stories from Hawaii and Tahiti, wonderful costumes, powerful drumming and chanting, and silky smooth music from the islands. The Polynesian-style Christmas show is at 4 p.m. Dec. 6 in the Dougherty Valley Performing Arts Center.
Symphony’s Free Holiday Concert
Enjoy the sounds of the season as talented musicians come together to bring a magical experience with Livermore-Amador Symphony’s free family holiday concert. 3 p.m., Dec. 6, at the Bankhead. Visit livermorearts.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. 6 and 7. Visit lvwine.org.
Ho Ho Ho Holiday Carnival
Join LARPD and some of Santa’s helpers for a holiday carnival at Sycamore Grove Park and enjoy a festive evening with a campfire, carnival games, arts and crafts and holiday treats from Mrs. Claus’ bakery and stop by for pictures with Santa. 5-7:30 p.m., Dec. 6. Visit larpd.org.
Pleasanton Hometown Holiday Celebration
The celebration begins at 5 p.m. Dec. 6, 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 in downtown Pleasanton.
Livermore Sights and Sound Parade
Enjoy floats and performances by local businesses, bands, schools, clubs and more with tree lighting to immediately follow. 6 p.m., Dec. 6, in downtown Livermore.
Joyful Sounds of the Season
Deck the halls with Livermore-Amador Symphony’s festive music perfect for the start of the holiday season. 8 p.m., Dec. 6, at the Bankhead.
Caring Santa at Stoneridge Mall
This sensory-friendly experience is exclusively for children with special needs and their families. Santa will be located in the Grand Court near the Apple store and photos available for purchase. 9-10:30 a.m., Dec. 7. Reservations required. Visit simon.com.
Irish Christmas in America
A cherished holiday tradition, Irish Christmas in America brings the magic of the season featuring heartwarming songs, lively dance and rich storytelling that celebrate Ireland’s holiday spirit. 7:30 p.m., Dec. 8.
Senior (50+) Holiday Luncheon
Celebrate the holiday season at LARPD’s annual catered luncheon and enjoy a delicious meal from On the Vine, live music, door prizes and a festive sweater contest. 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Dec. 10. Robert Livermore Community Center. Register by Dec. 5 at 925-373-5700.
Toys for Tots Toy Drive
LARPD is partnering with Toys for Tots to support children in need. Donate new, unwrapped toys to the Robert Livermore Community Center and the Aquatic Center. Dec. 1-11. Visit larpd.org.
Holiday Boutique
Visit the Pleasanton Senior Center for the Holiday Boutique and shop for books and beautifully handcrafted gifts. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Dec. 11.
Holiday Social Sing-a-Long
The Friends of the Pleasanton Senior Center present 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. 11. To register, call 925-931-5365.
Holiday Food Drive
LARPD is partnering with the Tri-Valley Haven Food Pantry to support local families this holiday season. Drop off non-perishable items like potatoes, stuffing, canned vegetables, pumpkin pie mix and more. Robert Livermore Community Center. Through Dec. 12.
Sensory Santa
This event offers a calm, welcoming environment where children with autism and other disabilities can meet Santa in a way that suits their unique needs. 4:30-5:45 p.m., Dec. 12. Visit larpd.org/sensory-santa.
Holiday Soiree
SPARC Theater is presenting its annual Holiday Soiree from Dec. 12-14 at its studio in downtown Livermore. Experience classic holiday stories by famous authors like A.A. Milne, L.M. Montgomery, Beatrix Potter and Mark Twain being brought to life by professional actors. Learn more at sparctheater.org.
Donuts with Santa
Join for a morning or evening of holiday cheer at the Robert Livermore Community Center to play games, write a letter to Santa, and take a picture with Santa. Dec. 12-13. Visit larpd.org/donuts-with-santa.
A Very Follies Holiday
The Golden Follies senior Vegas-style revue is presenting their “A Very Follies Holiday” show at the Firehouse on Dec. 13 at 2 p.m., accompanied by Bay Area vocal artist Deborah Del Mastro, The performance is already sold out.
Hanukkah Celebration
Tri-Valley Cultural Jews is holding its festive, family-friendly Hanukkah celebration Dec. 13 from 4-6 p.m. in Castro Valley. Guests can enjoy candle lighting, storytelling, sizzling latkes, hands-on crafts and games for all ages. To learn more, visit trivalleyculturaljews.org; to RSVP, email culturaljews@gmail.com.
An American Holiday
Join Valley Concert Chorale as they sing Christmas chorale music from the Americas. 7:30 p.m., Dec. 12, Lynnewood Methodist Church, Pleasanton, and 7:30 p.m., Dec. 13, Asbury United Methodist Church, Livermore.
Spirit & Sweater Stroll
The Spirit and 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. 13. Visit pleasantondowntown.net
The Nutcracker
Valley Dance Theatre brings Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker to the Bankhead in this full-length repertory classical ballet where costumes and sets are created by professional, award-winning designers. Dec. 13-14, 19-21. Visit livermorearts.org.
Impressions of the Nutcracker
More than just a ballet, San Ramon Valley Dance Academy’s production of “Impressions of the Nutcracker” incorporates multiple dance styles and pantomime vignettes in a fast paced 75-minute show that follows the traditional story line. 7:30 p.m. Dec. 13 and 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Dec. 14 in the Dougherty Valley Performing Arts Center. Visit tickets.sanramon.ca.gov.
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. 14.
Chanukah Wonderland at Stoneridge Mall
Celebrate the Festival of Lights with holiday games and crafts, Chanukah photo-op, face painting and music. Join the Tri-Valley’s Jewish community to light up Stoneridge’s 9-foot menorah in the. Open to the public; 5:30-7 p.m. Dec. 16, in the center of the mall. Learn more at www.jewishtrivalley.com.
Sunol Menorah Lighting
The third annual menorah lighting of Sunol’s menorah with dignitaries, refreshments, joy and spirit. Organized by Chabad of the Tri-Valley, the event starts at 5:30 p.m. Dec. 18 in Sunol Community Park.
Christmas Dreaming with Stella Cole
Stella Cole makes her highly anticipated Bankhead debut with a dazzling holiday performance bringing her signature jazz-infused vocals to timeless Christmas classics, accompanied by a lush string ensemble, 7:30 p.m., Dec. 18. Visit livermorearts.org.
Chorus Eclectic – Gnome for the Holidays
Join Chorus Eclectic as they bring these legendary characters to life through music with familiar favorites alongside fresh, imaginative arrangements. 7 p.m., Dec. 18. Visit firehousearts.org.
Shabbat Hanukkah
Join in person at Congregation Beth Emek, or online, for their annual Shabbat Hanukkah service celebrating the sixth night of Hanukkah with a joyous, song-filled service. 7:30 p.m., Dec. 19. Visit bethemek.org.
Tower of Power – Holidays & Hits Tour
Tower of Power is tapping into its 50-year-plus repertoire – and the holiday season – for a show at the Dougherty Valley Performing Arts Center in San Ramon on Dec. 19. Go to tickets.sanramon.ca.gov.
Holiday Youth Music Festival
Holiday Youth Music Festival showcases the vibrant talents of high schoolers, featuring a delightful mix of original and classic holiday songs filling the heart with holiday cheer and musical joy. 7 p.m., Dec. 19, at the Firehouse. Visit firehousearts.org.
Chanukah Under the Stars
Join Chabad as they light up Livermore’s menorah with a live Chanukah music concert. Get showered by “chocolate gelt” raining down with the Livermore-Pleasanton Fire Department, enjoy hot latkes and Chanukah donuts, and glow-in-the-dark fun. Open to the public, the event runs from 7:30-8:30 p.m. Dec. 20 in front of the Bankhead Theater.
Campana Sobre Campana: Christmas in Mexico
This vibrant show weaves cherished Mexican traditions into a magical story of the season. Through joyous rhythms and the colorful spectacle of Mexican dance, capture the heartwarming reenactment of Mary and Joseph’s journey. 7:30 p.m., Dec. 22, at the Bankhead.
Noon Year’s Eve Celebration
Skip the midnight countdown and join for a lively celebration with games, crafts, dancing, light refreshments and a balloon drop. 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Dec. 31. Robert Livermore Community Center. Visit larpd.org.
New Year’s Eve with Matt Axton & Badmoon
Ring in the New Year with a night of live music, dancing and celebration featuring Matt Axton and Badmoon, known for their rich, genre-blending sound that fuses Americana, blues, folk and rock. Dancing and DJ in the lobby. 7 p.m., Dec. 31, at the Bankhead. Visit livermorearts.org.
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