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Home | Marin Weekend Family Fun for December 20–22

Marin Weekend Family Fun for December 20–22

Visit the Fairmont lobby for amazing holiday decorations, including a two-story gingerbread house you can walk through!

Other Holiday Happenings:

Friday, December 20

  • Christmas House at West End Nursery
    San Rafael
    Friday & Saturday, 8 am–5 pm, Sunday 9 am–4 pm

    Get in the holiday spirit and visit the amazing Christmas House at San Rafael's West End Nursery. This magical setting includes lights, decorated trees, and more. It's a holiday must-visit in Marin. Free admission; ornaments and decor are for sale. Location: 1938 5th Avenue, San Rafael. Event details.
  • Iceless Skating Rink
    Bay Area Discovery Museum, Sausalito
    Friday, 9 am–1 pm, Saturday & Sunday, 9 am–5 pm

    Strap on skates and take a spin around the “ice” this December at the Bay Area Discovery Museum! We’re transforming our Discovery Studio space into an Iceless Skating Rink. On our synthetic ice rink, children of all ages can slide and glide into the holiday season. Tickets: $13.95–$15.95. Location: 557 McReynolds Road, Sausalito. Event details.
  • "Tis the Season for Science
    California Academy of Sciences, San Francisco
    Friday & Saturday, 9:30 am–5 pm, Sunday, 11 am–5 pm
    Visit the Cal Academy this holiday season for indoor snow flurries, live reindeer, a hands-on polar-themed exhibit, and live festive music. Museum admission applies. Location: 55 Music Concourse Drive, San Francisco. Location:  Event details.
  • Preschool Friday Crafts
    Little Tree Art Studios, San Anselmo
    Friday, 9:45–10:45 am

    Little Artists this month will be in a daze with all the holiday crafts! We will make Cardboard Gingerbread garland, coat hanger Christmas trees, red nose reindeer and a white ceramic tree lantern. The studio will be set up with invitations to play with fake snow, ice and a snowflake printing project. Cost: drop-in $22. Location: 14 Ross Avenue, Downtown San Anselmo. Event details.
  • Sing & Dance with Miss Kitty!
    San Rafael City Hall, Counsel Chambers
    Friday, 10:30–11:15 am

    Miss Kitty will join us for a series of fun family concerts that are just right for kids birth to 8 years old. No registration, no space limitations, all are welcome! Location: 1400 Fifth Ave., San Rafael. Event details.
  • Pop Up Holiday Boutique
    Marin Center Bartolini Gallery, San Rafael
    Friday–Saturday, 11 am–7 pm

    Get all your holiday shopping done at Marin Center’s Pop-Up Holiday Boutique! Shop for one-of-a kind locally produced gifts and meet some of Marin County’s top artisans, showcasing their unique jewelry, textiles, home accessories and quality crafts. Take home something special for the art lovers in your family while supporting the true creative culture of Marin! Free. Location: 10 Avenue of the Flags, San Rafael. Event details.
  • Children’s Magical Tea
    Mark Hopkins Hotel, San Francisco
    Friday & Saturday, noon–4:30 pm

    Magical Holiday Tea is open to kids and adults of all ages, and features Raul the Master Balloonatic, face painting with Fire Pixie, our Mark Hopkins Nutcracker, and a Cookie Decorating Station. Santa will visit on Saturdays, too! $80 per person; $75 with toy donation to the San Francisco Firefighters Toy Drive. Advance reservations required: (415) 616-6941. Location: 999 California Street. Event details.
  • San Francisco Ballet Nutcracker
    War Memorial Opera House
    Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 2 & 7 pm
    Experience 200 costumed characters, dazzling scenery, Tchaikovsky's beautiful score performed live by the San Francisco Ballet Orchestra, and the opulence of the War Memorial Opera House decorated for Christmas. Tickets to this time-honored holiday tradition are going fast! This is a full-length ballet performance, so the SF Ballet recommends Nutcracker for children ages 5 and up, and requests that no children under 3, including infants in arms, attend. Tickets: $25 and up. Purchase tickets here. Location: 301 Van Ness Avenue, San Francisco. For more info, call (415) 865-2000 or visit their website.
  • 23 Elephants: Disney's Frozen, Jr.
    Novato Theater Company
    Friday, 7 pm and Saturday, 7 pm

    This enchanting modern classic from Disney is based on the 2018 Broadway musical, and brings Elsa, Anna, and the magical land of Arendelle to life, onstage. This is a story of true love and acceptance between sisters. When princesses Anna and Elsa are faced with danger, the two discover their hidden potential and the powerful bond of sisterhood. Loaded with magic, adventure, and plenty of humor, Frozen JR. is sure to thaw even the coldest heart! Tickets: $15 general, $30 reserved. Location: 5420 Nave Drive, Novato. Event details
  • NorCal Ice
    Northgate Mall, San Rafael
    Friday, 2
    –9 pm, Saturday & Sunday, 11 am–10 pm
    The NorCal Ice (formerly known as Marin on Ice) outdoor skating rink in San Rafael's Northgate Mall returns to offers al fresco skating. The rink will once again be located near the center's Oaktree Plaza and features 6,400 square feet of real ice. Skating costs $15 per person, which includes skate rental and all-day in-and-out privileges. "Skate Buddies" (the blue plastic chair-like supports) are available to rent for beginners ($5 per hour). Location: Northgate Mall (next to Kohls), San Rafael. Event details.
  • Sing You a Merry Christmas
    Grace Cathedral, San Francisco
    Friday, 3 pm and Saturday, 11 am

    Sing along with your favorite Christmas carols as the toys of St. Nicholas's workshop lead you on an extraordinary journey, filling children, young and old, with the joys of the season. Festive for families! Tickets start at $10. Purchase tickets here. Location: 1100 California Street, San Francisco. Event details.
  • Night Bloom
    Conservatory of Flowers, San Francisco
    Friday–Sunday, 5–11 pm

    Night Bloom returns shining brighter this holiday season at the Conservatory of Flowers. Light and sound infuse the Conservatory of Flowers’ one-of-a-kind plant collection and its iconic facade in a limited engagement. Tickets: $29–$80; children 8 and under free. Event details
  • Zoo Lights
    Oakland Zoo
    Friday–Sunday, 5:30–9 pm,

    Celebrate the holidays at Oakland Zoo amidst a million glowing lights! Soar over the Oakland hills in our festively-lit gondolas and see the Bay Area skyline like never before. New this year, enjoy swirling snowfalls over a dazzling Winter Wonderland attraction featuring Santa in his decked-out workshop for the ultimate holiday experience. ZooLights is a separate event and is not included in regular Zoo Admission. $12 adults, $11 children 2–14 and seniors 65+, free for children under 2 and adults over 80. Location: 9777 Golf Links Rd, Oakland. Event details.
  • Pizza Party Friday
    Studio 4 Art, Novato
    Friday, 6–8 pm

    Join us for an evening of creativity as we paint the night away while munching on pizza (it may be a perfect time for you adults to enjoy an evening out to enjoy many yummy restaurants, beer gardens, and wine bars along Grant Avenue). Ages 6-10. Cost: $35–Register here. Location: 1133 Grant Avenue, Novato. Event details.
  • Rombeiro Christmas House
    Devonshire Drive, Novato

    Friday–Sunday, 6–10 pm
    Their home is something that truly has to be seen to be believed, and photos don't really do it justice. There are something like 140,000 lights as well as countless figurines, dioramas, and decorations adorning the front and side yards, walls, and roof of the Rombeiro house. If you think the outside is impressive, then you need to go on inside and get a healthy dose of Christmas spirit. You'll find model trains, more figurines, Christmas trees, and the biggest lighted holiday village you've ever seen. Location: 34 Devonshire Drive, off of Center Road, Novato. For more info, read about our visit here.
  • A Christmas Carol
    A.C.T.’s Geary Theater, San Francisco
    Friday, 7 pm, Saturday, 2 & 7 pm, Sunday, 1 & 6 pm

    Featuring a lively cast of dozens, gorgeous costumes, and those deliciously spooky ghosts, the Bay Area's favorite holiday tradition returns with a sparkling, music-infused production of A Christmas Carol. Bring your family, bring your friends, and check your “humbugs” at the door! Tickets start at $15 and up. Purchase tickets here! Location: 405 Geary Street, San Francisco. Event details
  • Berkeley Playhouse: A Christmas Story, The Musical
    The Julia Morgan Center for the Arts, Berkeley
    Friday, 7 pm, Saturday, 1 & 7 pm, Sunday, 2 pm

    This holiday season, journey on a nostalgic romp full of joyful spirit, featuring music from the Oscar-winning team behind the music of La La Land, The Greatest Showman and Dear Evan Hansen. Featuring all your favorite scenes from the classic movie, A Christmas Story. Running time: 2 hours 15 minutes, including intermission. Tickets: $25–$44. Purchase tickets here! Location: 2640 College Avenue, Berkeley. Event details
  • A Cathedral Christmas
    Grace Cathedral, San Francisco
    Friday, 7:30 pm, Saturday, 3 pm

    In the grand tradition of the great cathedrals of Europe, the Choir of Men and Boys accompanied by full orchestra will transport you with their exquisite performances of favorite carols and holiday masterpieces—now a beloved San Francisco tradition. Tickets: $15–$70. Location: 1100 California Street, San Francisco. Event details.
  • ’Twas the NightA Festival of Carols
    Davies Symphony Hall, San Francisco
    Friday, 7:30 pm

    Join us for a cozy holiday concert at Davies Symphony Hall, which will be beautifully decorated for the season. With timeless holiday carols and sing-alongs performed by the symphony’s brass section and chorus—all accompanied by the majestic Ruffatti organ—you and your loved ones will enjoy a merry evening and memories to last a lifetime. Tickets: $39 and up. Purchase tickets here. Location: 201 Van Ness Avenue, San Francisco. Event details.
  • African-American Shakespeare Company: Cinderella
    Herbst Theatre, Fort Mason, San Francisco
    Friday, 8 pm, Saturday, 11 am & 3 pm, Sunday, 1 pm

    Back by popular demand, the holiday season once again sees the return of this heartwarming holiday show where Cinderella, toiling away as a lowly scullery maid to please her evil stepmother (and oddly masculine stepsisters) comes in contact with a Fairy Godmother who means business with a capital B. Aided by the help of a little bit of magic, Cinderella finds her Prince Charming and learns that anything—even miracles—are possible when you believe in yourself. After the show audience members will have a magical moment to meet the entire cast for a holiday “meet and greet” picture opportunity. Tickets: $25 and up. Event details

Saturday, December 21

  • Holidays Along Farm Trails
    Sonoma County
    Saturday & Sunday, various times

    'Tis the season to celebrate with our community. Join Sonoma County farmers and producers as they open their gates and barn doors to offer a behind-the-scenes peek at life on the farm. Shop their unique farmstands for your holiday meals, cut your own Christmas tree, make a gift at DIY workshops, greet farm animals, and so much more. Free. Register online for a list of each weekend's participants. Event details.
  • Santa Photos & Farmer's Market
    Marin County Mart, Larkspur Landing
    Saturday, 9 am–2 pm

    Enjoy pony rides and a petting zoo for the kids from 10 am–2 pm, live music for kids and adults, face painting, arts and crafts by SCRAP, and of course the best local and organic produce, flowers, pastured meats, seafood, organic cheeses, yogurt and milk, breads, baked goods, nuts, local wine, jams, honey, hummus, knife sharpening, and brunch and lunch options. Free photos with Santa from 10:30 am–1:30 pm. Location: Larkspur Landing, Larkspur. Event details.
  • Holiday Gift-Making Workshop
    Charles M. Schulz Museum, Santa Rosa
    Saturday, 10 am–1 pm

    Sign up your little elves to make a variety of fun and creative gifts to give for the holidays, including lavender bath bombs, sweet smelling sugar scrubs, a homemade photo holder, and more! Recommended for children ages 5–12. $25 for members/$32 general. Advance registration required—register below or call (707) 284-1272. Location: 2301 Hardies Lane, Santa Rosa. Event details.
  • Joy at the Zoo
    San Francisco Zoo
    Saturday & Sunday, 10 am–4 pm

    Santa is sending his favorite reindeer, Belle, Holly, and Peppermint to spread holiday cheer at San Francisco Zoo & Gardens! Until January 1, majestic reindeer will be romping at SF Zoo's Playfield Lawn, near the spectacular Elinor Friend Playground. Zoo admission applies. Location: Sloat Blvd. at the Great Highway, San Francisco. Event details.
  • Last Weekend! The Great Dickens Christmas Fair
    Cow Palace, Daly City
    Saturday & Sunday, 10 am–7 pm

    Experience Victorian London with hundreds of costumed players, shops offering one-of-a-kind gifts and Christmas treasures, dining, and pubs. Meet Charles Dickens, Oliver Twist, Tiny Tim, Jules Verne, David Copperfield, Charles Darwin, and 700 costumed characters. Of course, Father Christmas himself will be on hand to join in the fun. Tickets: Adult $32 (13 and up), child $14 (5–12) and 5 and under are free. Location: Cow Palace, 2600 Geneva Ave, Daly City. Event details.
  • Gingerbread Dog & Cat House Decorating Workshop for Kids
    Marin Humane, Novato
    Saturday, 2 slots: 10:30 am–12:30 pm & 1:30–3:30 pm

    Calling all kids! Get in the holiday spirit and join in the fun of an age-old holiday tradition - gingerbread house decorating! Gingerbred house masters John and Megan Lorenzen will be here to help you create a gingerbread dog house or a gingerbread kitty condo. We'll end our session with a display of all the fabulous creations before you taken them home. All materials will be provided. Workshop is designed for kids 8-12 years old who can work independently. This is a kids-only workshop. Cost: $30. Register online here. Location: 171 Bel Marin Keys Blvd., Novato. Event details.
  • Sing You a Merry Christmas
    Grace Cathedral, San Francisco
    Saturday, 11 am

    Sing along with your favorite Christmas carols as the toys of St. Nicholas's workshop lead you on an extraordinary journey, filling children, young and old, with the joys of the season. Festive for families! Tickets start at $10. Purchase tickets here. Location: 1100 California Street, San Francisco. Event details.
  • Storytime: Construction Site on Christmas Night
    Barnes & Noble, Corte Madera
    Saturday, 11 am

    It's Christmas time at your favorite construction site! After the trucks finish their big, important job, they receive their very own Christmas surprise. Activities to follow, plus, get a coupon for a grilled cheese sandwich with milk or juice for $4 (Café stores only). Location: 313 Corte Madera Town Center. Event details.
  • Mark Foehringer's Nutcracker Sweets
    Cowell Theatre, Fort Mason, San Francisco
    Saturday, 11 am, 1 & 4 pm and Sunday, 12, 2 & 5 pm
    Celebrate the holidays at Fort Mason Center for Arts & Culture with Mark Foehringer‘s Nutcracker Sweets, a 50-minute production of the classic holiday ballet for families with small children and audiences of all ages. This special production is danced storytelling that is affordable, magical, zany, and fun. Tickets: $20.50–$42.50. Location: 2 Marina Blvd, San Francisco. Event details.
  • Pop Up Holiday Boutique
    Marin Center Bartolini Gallery, San Rafael
    Saturday, 11 am–7 pm

    Get all your holiday shopping done at Marin Center’s Pop-Up Holiday Boutique! Shop for one-of-a kind locally produced gifts and meet some of Marin County’s top artisans, showcasing their unique jewelry, textiles, home accessories and quality crafts. Take home something special for the art lovers in your family while supporting the true creative culture of Marin! Free. Location: 10 Avenue of the Flags, San Rafael. Event details.
  • Saturdays with Santa
    Bon Air Center, Greenbrae
    Saturday, noon–3 pm

    Santa arrives by firetruck (courtesy of the Larkspur Fire Department) at Santa’s Workshop in front of Mollie Stone’s Market on the first three Saturdays of December. Free photos with Santa for families, friends and pets courtesy of CVS. Enjoy live music, sidewalk specials, Santa’s elves and children’s activities and treats. Location: 50 Bon Air Center, Greenbrae. Event details.
  • Holiday Tea at the Claremont
    Berkeley

    Saturday, noon–4 pm
    Celebrate the holiday season with this grand Claremont tradition made extra special for the holiday season. Enjoy unparalleled views of the Bay, an impressive tea selection, assortments of delicious bites, and a special visit from Oakland Ballet Company's Nutcracker on the 8 and 15. Includes a complimentary glass of Moet Chandon and a children's giveaway. Pricing per person: $109+ Adults | $69+ Children ages 5 - 12. For reservations, call (510) 549-8556 or email CLA.Holidays@fairmont.com. Location: 41 Tunnel Road, Berkeley. Event details.
  • Marin Dance Theatre: Sophie and the Enchanted Toyshop
    Marin Veterans' Memorial Auditorium, San Rafael
    Saturday, 1 & 5:30 pm

    Marin Dance Theatre, an internationally recognized dance training center located in San Rafael, presents this delightful full-length children’s ballet choreographed by the Bay Area’s accomplished choreographer and MDT School Director, Lynn Cox. This will be the 24th year celebration of this enchanting story about Sophie! $10 Teddy Bear Tea Party (immediately following the 1pm show only). Tickets: $40 adults; $32 students & seniors (plus fees). Purchase tickets here! Location; 10 Avenue of the Flags, San Rafael. Event details.
  • Cirque de Bohème presents "A Paris"
    Cornerstone Sonoma
    Saturday–Sunday, 1, 3 & 5 pm
    Created in Paris during a period called “les Années Folles,” this old-style show is based on the French tradition of a 1920s Circus. Cirque de Bohème transports audiences back in time for an hour of mystery and entertainment. Presenting A Paris! An original spectacle with poetry, music, mystery, lots of laughs, and amazing circus talents! Delight in the work of world-class performers including a Magician, Hand Chair Balancing, Hula Hoop, Mime, Spinning Plates, Slack Rope, Jugglers, and more! Tickets: Tickets range from $27 (for children under 15) to $55. Purchase tickets here. Location: 23570 Arnold Drive, Sonoma. Event details.
  • A Charlie Brown Christmas—LIVE!
    Davies Symphony Hall, San Francisco
    Saturday, 2 & 7:30 pm, Sunday, 11:30 am & 2 pm

    Charlie Brown, Snoopy, and the entire Peanuts gang are back at Davies Symphony Hall to bring this television classic to life! With live actors, an animated backdrop, and Vince Guaraldi’s timeless music performed live by the SF Symphony, this is a beloved holiday classic you won’t want to miss. Come early and enjoy a family-friendly reception. The lobbies will be filled with festive decorations and activities, including gigantic Christmas trees and special Peanuts décor. Tickets: $35 and up. Event details.
  • Rombeiro Christmas House
    Devonshire Drive, Novato

    Saturday–Sunday, 6–10 pm
    Their home is something that truly has to be seen to be believed, and photos don't really do it justice. There are something like 140,000 lights as well as countless figurines, dioramas, and decorations adorning the front and side yards, walls, and roof of the Rombeiro house. If you think the outside is impressive, then you need to go on inside and get a healthy dose of Christmas spirit. You'll find model trains, more figurines, Christmas trees, and the biggest lighted holiday village you've ever seen. Location: 34 Devonshire Drive, off of Center Road, Novato. For more info, read about our visit here.
  • Indoor Power Play
    Cal Star Gymnastics, Novato

    Saturday, 6–9 pm
    Drop the kiddos ( K-8 th grade) for some indoor fun. They can run, jump and play in an open gymnastics environment. Bring the kids in on a rainy day or any day to burn some energy. Cost: $30 per child. Location: 70 Digital Drive, Suite #3 in Novato. Event details
  • Living Nativity Scene
    Christ Church North Bay, Novato
    Saturday & Sunday, 7–9 pm

    Christ Church North Bay presents the Star of Bethlehem Living Nativity ... real characters , animals, and manger scene! Free. Location: 6965 Redwood Boulevard, Novato. Event details

Sunday, December 22

  • Civic Center Farmers' Market
    Marin Civic Center, San Rafael

    Sunday, 8 am–1 pm
    There's lots of organically grown produce, breads, eggs, and fresh cut flowers, as well as live music, bounce houses, and more. This farmers' market is a great one to take the kids to. It’s located in the main Civic Center parking lot. Event details.
  • Story Time With Elsa and Anna
    Village Child, Novato
    Sunday, 11 am

    Come join your favorite frozen sisters Elsa and Anna as they host another fun interactive storytime! There will be singing, dancing, face painting, glitter tattoos and even nail painting! Meet and greet and photo opportunities with the princesses as well! We can’t wait to see you there! Tickets must be purchased for this event. Please come inside to check in and we will give you a special sticker to show you’ve checked in and paid. Cost: $25. Purchase tickets here. Location: 869 Grant Avenue, Novato. Event details.
  • Marin Conservatory of Dance presents The Nutcracker Suite
    Marin Center Showcase Theatre, San Rafael
    Sunday, 2 pm

    E.T.A. Hoffman's timeless and beloved classic holiday ballet, The Nutcracker is told in our very own rendition of “The Nutcracker Suite" a 50 - minute ballet production for families with small children and audiences of all ages. Students in each level are featured along with Professional Guest Artists in this delightful ballet performance. Join us as we celebrate the joyful spirit of the holiday season through exquisite dancing and storytelling! Tickets: Adults $39 and Kids $26. Purchase tickets here! Location: 10 Avenue of the Flags, San Rafael. Event details.
  • Bill Graham Menorah Lighting
    Union Square, San Francisco
    Sunday, 2 pm
    The Bill Graham Menorah lights up San Francisco's Union Square, with lighting ceremonies starting December 22 at 4:30 pm. The first ceremony features David and Alex Graham, Perry Farrell, local dignitaries, and long-time Bill Graham colleagues, as well as musical performances by Jerry’s Kosher Deli plus very special guests. Kids craft activities start at 2 pm. Location: 333 Post Street, San Francisco. Event details
  • Light the Menorah at Ghirardelli Square
    San Francisco
    Sunday, December 22, 3–6 pm
    Celebrate the first night of Hanukkah by dressing up in your favorite light-up, glittery and glowing clothes! Over eight days, the candlelight glows more and more each night; we’ll come together on the first night to make that light even brighter as we head into the darkest days of the year. We’ll light candles, enjoy live music, make crafts, play games and eat tasty treats. DIY crafts, fresh donuts, make hygiene kits for people experiencing homelessness. Hanukkah activities with shops at Ghirardelli Square Location: Ghirardelli Square (Upper Plaza / Fountain Plaza), 900 North Point Street, San Francisco. Event details.
  • Chanukahhh
    San Geronimo Valley Community Center
    Sunday, 4:30–6:30 pm
    Join us for our 3rd Annual Menorah light in West Marin at our local, lovely Community Centre. Latkes & Applesauce for the masses. 4:40 - candle lighting Chill, hang and eat, with West Marin Jews on the first night of Chanukah! Our events are always free, You can partner with us in keeping it this way, donations of any kind accepted and appreciated. Location: 6350 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, San Geronimo. Event details.
  • Menorah Lighting & Grand Gelt Drop
    Novato City Hall
    Sunday, 5 pm

    Join the Jewish community as we light the 10-foot menorah with a first ever Gelt Drop and maximize the power of Jewish light and pride on the streets of Novato. Donuts, latkes, hot drinks, kids crafts! Location: Novato City Hall, 901 Sherman Avenue, Novato 94945. Event details.
  • Menorah Lighting
    Claremont Club & Spa, Berkeley
    Sunday, 5:30 pm - 6:00 pm

    Gather your friends and family as we light the first candle in honor of Hanukkah with light snacks and drinks. Location: 41 Tunnel Road, Berkely. Event details.
  • Rombeiro Christmas House
    Devonshire Drive, Novato

    Sunday, 6–10 pm
    Their home is something that truly has to be seen to be believed, and photos don't really do it justice. There are something like 140,000 lights as well as countless figurines, dioramas, and decorations adorning the front and side yards, walls, and roof of the Rombeiro house. If you think the outside is impressive, then you need to go on inside and get a healthy dose of Christmas spirit. You'll find model trains, more figurines, Christmas trees, and the biggest lighted holiday village you've ever seen. Location: 34 Devonshire Drive, off of Center Road, Novato. For more info, read about our visit here.