Just because the weather may not feel like the North Pole doesn’t mean that the Bay Area doesn’t know how to celebrate the holidays! Take advantage of the area’s weather with these five festive holiday activities:
Oakland Zoo Lights
Oakland Zoo Lights brings holiday festivities to new heights…literally.
Soar over the Oakland Hills in lit-gondolas for an amazing view of the Bay Area. New for this year are laser light shows and structures that brighten Oakland’s night sky. When you’re ready for a landing, check out the candy-cane themed area with rides for the kids including the Outback Express Train. Don’t forget to see the Christmas trees and visit with Santa. Oakland’s Zoo Lights is open December 1-January 1st but is closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
Alameda’s Christmas Tree Lane
If you like to see Christmas lights at their best, then you need to visit Alameda’s Christmas Tree Lane at the 3200 block of Thompson Avenue between High and Fernside.
Everyone’s house is decorated in lights for the holiday season. The lights will be lit on Saturday December 2nd and will stay bright through New Year’s Eve. Park your car and stroll through the neighborhood to see all of the decorations up close. Besides the beautiful lights display be sure to stop and say hi to Santa. He’ll be on the Lane every night from 6:30-8p.m. December 9th through the 23rd.
Sausalito Lighted Boat Parade & Holiday Fireworks
The Sausalito Yacht Club is home to the 30th Sausalito Lighted Boat Parade and Holiday Fireworks.
See boats and yachts decorated for the holidays as they parade in the San Francisco Bay. It’s truly a sight like none other. This year’s event starts at 5p.m. on December 9th. Besides the boats, listen to music with Chris Saunders’ quartet at 8p.m. Don’t forget to stay for the fireworks too!
Nutcracker at Berkeley Ballet Theater
If you’re looking for a family friendly version of the Nutcracker, look no further than the Berkeley Ballet Theater.
This rendition has been a favorite of family’s in the East Bay for more than 30 years. The story highlights the spirit of giving which is a lesson everyone can enjoy this time of year. Performances are Friday December 15th-Sunday December 17th. Children can meet the dancers at the Sugar Plum Fairy Parties after the 11 a.m. performances on Saturday and Sunday. Tickets for the show and for the meet and greet can be purchased online.
The Bay Area is bustling with holiday activity this season. Be sure to get in on all the fun before this magical time of year is over!
