Time to light up the sky as the holidays approach. Illuminate SF returns and a new installment comes to Pay Pal Park in San Jose. We have a few places for you to shop for your loved ones or yourself and of course we have shows to entertain. It’s not too early for some tomatoes who already have their holiday décor started. Grab a cocktail at the ever-enchanting Tinsel town Pop Up where every day is Christmas.

Calling all art lovers!

Illuminate SF Festival of Lights returns with more outdoor installations and artworks from celebrated artists, so get ready to witness the city’s captivating glow. This holiday season, The Golden City will shine brighter than usual with over 60 light public art installations showcased throughout the city. From beautiful flower pieces to larger-than-life sculptures, this festival dazzles!

In its 10th year Illuminate SF Festival of Light Illuminates the longest nights of the year with light art.  From Nov. 9 through the end of January, San Francisco transforms into a citywide gallery of art at night with many permanent and temporary light art installations. Over 40 artists including are showcased in this two-month event. The sky will shine brightly throughout the city. From GG park and the Sky wheel to China town, the financial district, Yerba Buena, SFO and so many more glowing locations. FREE…find them all here.

The World’s Largest Christmas Light Maze and Village

Escape to an incredible illuminated winter wonderland with the world’s largest holiday-themed light experience.  Enchant opens in San Jose’s PayPal Park on November 25^th. Escape to an incredible illuminated winter wonderland. Experience a world of adventure featuring over 4 million sparkling lights creating an immersive walk-thru, story-themed maze.

Discover their charming Village offering ice-skating, live entertainment, dining, holiday shopping, Santa & Mrs. Claus, and much more. The event is travelling to various cities across the country and is produced by Hallmark. So, expect hot cocoa of course! Get details.

November & December Entertainment

For your entertainment there are always an abundance of plays, music, and dance in the bay area. We have found a few that might intrigue you.

Dec. 6. Funny guy Adam Sandler is coming to Chase Center Creator and star of Happy Gilmore, Big Daddy and stages across the world, Sandler will entertain the bay area with his unique brand of comedy. Maybe an early holiday gift for those who love to laugh. Perhaps he will even sing his infamous Hannukah song.  Get details.

Dec. 1. Andrea Bocelli. If your preferences run more to the classic, Andrea Bocelli is also bringing his magical voice to Chase Center. Now that’s an evening on my wish list. Andrea Bocelli has been entertaining audiences for over 20 years, counting nearly 90 million records sold worldwide. Get details.

Nov. 19-Dec. 11.  Sunday in the Park with George

The beloved Sondheim musical “arrives at the San Jose Playhouse. Inspired by George Seurat’s famous painting, A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grand Jatte, this poetic masterpiece explores the challenges in understanding life and art. The production follows the relationship between Georges Seurat and his muse, Dot, and movingly tells of the struggle between art and passion while the painter’s vision is stunningly brought to life in front of the audience’s eyes using state-of-the-art live projection. As the story’s second act moves into the 20th century, the story focuses on the younger Seurat and his grandmother, Marie, the daughter of Georges and Dot. Seurat’s descendant – named George and an artist – finds himself burnt out and in search of what artistic path to follow, but he finds the answer to his future in the past. GET THE DETAILS.

Nov. 11-13. An Immersive Dance Experience 

 We tomatoes love an immersive experience particularly when it involves six powerful women dancing their hearts out. Here. Take it is an evening-length dance installation featuring an original score from composer Dan Wool, film, projected images, text as voiceover, and a cast of six dancers and an actor, all incorporated into a gallery-like set and environment. The work brings together the audience and performers inside the installation, intensifying the impassioned questions and multiple perspectives we bring to our shared experiences. The rhythms of the audience members inside the set and sound environment—as they walk, stand, shift focus—create the final layer of intimacy and unpredictability. You’ll be able to walk at will to experience the work from multiple perspectives November 11 – 13^th Friday and Saturday at 8pm, Sunday at 2pm. 450 Florida Street at Z Space in San Francisco.   zspace.org.

Nov. 18-19. Eat, Drink, Shop and Be Merry!

Cat lovers and those who enjoy the bright and festive creations of Laurel Burch will want to head to Berkeley Join for a complete in-person experience exploring the color and splendor of Laurel Burch.  One-of-a-kind jewelry, artful apparel and more will be available. When you visit you can enter a raffle contest each day of the sale.

If you are craving something unique you will find one-of-a-kind vintage cloisonné earrings and necklaces, bags, totes and much more. Gems dating from the 1970’s. You know what that means….we are vintage! There will also be a toy and art supply drive to add to their donations to local children in need of holiday gifts. 1345 Eighth St. Berkeley. https://laurelburchstudios.com/

Nov. 11-13. Unique gifts at East Bay Open Studios

Get your hands on some. In addition to shopping locally made art, you’ll get to mix and mingle with the artists behind the work; November 11 – 13^th 11am to 5pm.   eastbayopenstudios.com.

Nov. 30-Jan. 15. Tinseltown Is Coming to Town! 

Have You Been Naughty or Nice? Because the all-encompassing Christmas-themed pop-up will be fulfilling all your festive wishes. The event is overflowing with holly jolly Christmas spirit! Tinseltown is all about celebrating Christmas so you can expect Santa, elves, presents, tinsel, festive tunes, and lots of winter warmer drinks, including a fabulous Christmas cocktail menu!

The halls are more than fully decked with baubles, bows, hanging trees, wreaths and just about every festive goodie ever! Disclaimer. No grinches allowed! Tickets include entry to the themed bar and a themed drink on arrival.