Best Bay Area Events 11.26-12.16
Downtown First Thursdays Is BACK on Dec. 5th!
Downtown First Thursdays is back for another FREE, all-ages street party on 2nd St. on Dec. 5th from 5-10pm. Featuring a DJ Set by Special Guest Performer Rebecca Black! PLUS an ugly sweater competition, arts and crafts, karaoke caroling, roaming capoeira, free caricatures, and more! Free with RSVP.
Grateful Ness
by Vanessa Gil, Arts & Events Editor
It’s Thanksgiving week and I have a lot to be grateful for…big and small. My three monochromatic pets that make me the happiest. Life-long friends to spend the holidays. My new jacket I got for 60% off! Most importantly, I am thankful to you for reading this and I wish you good luck as you navigate through family gatherings this week. And when you’re ready to let loose… these are the events I’m most grateful for the week of 11/26 and beyond.
Our Partner’s Events
Salsa Showdown
12/5 | The Commons, KQED Headquarters | 2601 Mariposa St, SF | 7 p.m. | $23
Salsa comes in all forms: It’s a flavorful way to top a delicious dish, a musical genre and a hotly contested secret ingredient of abuelas! Dip your tortilla chip into the salsas produced by local makers Papalote, Casa Sanchez and Kuali, and learn how Mexico’s regional cultures and Bay Area vibes influence their craft. Then, move your body to the hypnotic salsa sounds of the band Bululú with a post-tasting dance party! Get your tickets here.
The Golden Girls Live: The Christmas Episodes
12/5-12/22 | SF Curran | 445 Geary St, SF | 8 p.m | $39-$125
Now in its 19th year, The Golden Girls Live: The Christmas Episodes takes four drag legends and casts them in two parody Christmas episodes of the uproarious TV show The Golden Girls. Directed by Drollinger, this drag send-up and heartfelt tribute to the characters the entire world has come to know and love features the return of Coco Peru (Dorothy), Matthew Martin (Blanche), D’Arcy Drollinger (Rose), and Holotta Tymes (Sophia). The cast also features Manuel Caneri, Michael Phillis, and Tom Shaw on the piano. Get your tickets here!
Listen to This Week’s Spotify Playlist
Listen to this week’s playlist so you can sample upcoming bands and comedians listed in this newsletter.
This Week’s Events 11/26-12/2
Tuesday, 11/26
Glow
Now-1/26 | Exploratorium | Pier 15, SF | 10 a.m. | $29.95-$39.95
Step into the art and science of light… and recharge your winter wonder at our annual winter exhibition, Glow, where artists illuminate Pier 15 with stunning light sculptures. Paint with light and shadow, walk inside 3D illusions, soak in color, and question your own eyes. Don’t miss this beloved annual expansion of our exhibits on light, open through January 26 at the Exploratorium.
Cyndi Lauper
11/26 | Chase Center | 1 Warriors Way, SF | 8 p.m. | $39.50-$249.50
Cyndi Lauper’s Girls Just Wanna Have Fun Farewell Tour is celebrates the singer’s decades-long career.
Simon Joyner
11/26 | 4 Star Theater | 2200 Clement St, SF | 7 p.m. Doors | $21
Simon Joyner is a singer-songwriter from Omaha, Nebraska. He’s been flying under the radar since 1991, releasing music on various independent labels including: Team Love, Jagjaguwar, Sing Eunuchs!, Catsup Plate, One-Hour, Shrimper, Brinkman, Secretly Canadian, and Unread. He is also the co-founder of Grapefruit Records and an occasional producer of other people’s albums.
Wednesday, 11/27
Dark Sparkle: 25th Annual Holiday Party
11/27 | DNA Lounge | 375 11th St, SF | 9 p.m. | $5-$10, 18+
Bringing you “The Darker Side of The 70’s And 80’s” since their inception in 1999, Dark Sparkle returns to the main room of DNA Lounge for their 25th annual holiday party! While their sonic palette may have expanded over the years, you can always expect a unique mix of everything from goth to glam, new wave to punk, post-punk, electronics, esoterica, and that god damned rock ‘n’ roll!
BASSgiving!
11/27 | Monarch | 101 6th St, SF | 9 p.m. | $13.63, 21+
Strategik presents our 17th annual BASSgiving celebration! It’s time to celebrate family, friendship, fun and of course BASS! As always, this event is a fundraiser for those in need during the holidays. 100% of the proceeds will be donated to Family Giving Tree. Food donations will go to the San Francisco Food Bank.
Polo G
11/27 | The Midway | 900 Marin St, SF | 9 p.m. | 39.50-$100
Polo G’s The Hood Poet Tour with support from VonOff1700, Skylar Blatt, Scorey, and TwoTiime.
Thursday, 11/28
Indigenous Peoples Sunrise Gathering
11/28 | Pier 33 Alcatraz Landing | Pier 33 Suite 200, SF | 4:15-6 a.m. Departures | $15.50
The Indigenous Peoples’ Day Sunrise Gathering is organized by the International Indian Treaty Council commemorating the 1969-71 occupation of Alcatraz by the Indians of All Tribes.
Free Admission to SF’s Botanical Garden
11/28 | SF Botanical Garden | 1199 9th Ave, SF | Opens at 7:30a.m. | Free
Escape to a unique urban oasis of extraordinary beauty at San Francisco Botanical Garden showcasing 8,000 different kinds of plants from around the world.
Thanksgiving Day at Question Mark Bar
11/28 | Question Mark Bar | 312 Harriet St, SF | 3 p.m. | Free
Open from 3 PM – 2 AM with everything you need for a fun holiday: Music & Karaoke, movies on the big screens, darts, board games, sports, full menu & drink specials. Bring your friends, appetite, and love of beer or a good stiff drink, and join us for a Thanksgiving you’ll want to remember!
Thanksgiving Day Grand Buffet
11/28 | Cavallo Point Lodge | 601 Murray Cir, Sausalito | 12 p.m. & 3 p.m. | $71.21-$164.03
Join us in our Callippe Ballroom, where we’re offering two convenient seating times at 12pm and 3pm. Indulge in a traditional feast featuring carving stations with turkey and slow braised beef short ribs, a seafood station, hearty soups, harvest salads, and a variety of delicious sides. To top it off, enjoy an array of tempting desserts to satisfy that sweet tooth. Cocktails and wine will be available for purchase, and to add a touch of sparkle to your holiday, each adult ticket includes a complimentary glass of sparkling wine. Share in the spirit of gratitude with us this Thanksgiving!
Planes, Trains, and Automobiles
11/28 | Balboa Theater | 3630 Balboa St, SF | 12 p.m. | $16
Catch the Thanksgiving classic! Easily excitable Neal Page (Steve Martin) is somewhat of a control freak. Trying to get home to Chicago to spend Thanksgiving with his wife (Laila Robins) and kids, his flight is rerouted to a distant city in Kansas because of a freak snowstorm, and his sanity begins to fray. Worse yet, he is forced to bunk up with talkative Del Griffith (John Candy), whom he finds extremely annoying. Together they must overcome the insanity of holiday travel to reach their intended destination.
SF SPCA Holiday Windows at Macy’s Union Square
Now-12/31| Macy’s Union Square | 170 O’Farrell St, SF | 12 p.m. | Free, All ages
It’s the 38th Holiday Windows at our Union Square store in partnership with the San Francisco SPCA. We’re thrilled that adoptable animals will return to our windows again this year. Join us to learn more about this fun theme & see our furry friends in person.
Friday, 11/29
A Season of Winter Wonder at Chabot Space & Science Center
11/29-1/5 | Chabot Space & Science Center | 10000 Skyline Blvd, Oakland | 10 a.m. | $19-$24
Join us at Chabot Space & Science Center this season for a joyful celebration of wonder, science, fun and coming together for all ages. You’ll enjoy all new features like Sock Skating all season, two event-packed weekends of WinterFest at Chabot–imagine enhanced programming throughout the Center with a seasonal theme, good cheer, and, of course, hot cocoa!
Amadeus—Film w/ Live Orchestra
11/29 & 11/30 | Davies Symphony Hall | 201 Van Ness Ave, SF | 7:30 p.m. | $130-$299
Experience the tale of Mozart’s music, loves, and rivalries in Amadeus, the winner of eight Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Actor.
Latto
11/29 | Bill Graham Civic Auditorium | 99 Grove St, SF | 6:30 p.m. Doors | $83-$249
Grammy-nominated rapper Latto is on tour in support of her third studio album, Sugar Honey Iced Tea.
Kevin Nealon
11/29 & 11/30 | Cobb’s Comedy Club | 915 Columbus Ave, SF | 7 p.m., 9:15 p.m.
Kevin Nealon is best known for his nine-year stint as a cast member of NBC’s Saturday Night Live, and has received critical acclaim for his role in the Showtime series Weeds. Nealon’s self-produced, edited, and hosted web series Hiking with Kevin is exclusively available on his YouTube channel of the same name. In the series, Kevin interviews his A-list celebrity friends on hikes throughout the country.
Saturday, 11/30
Modern Menagerie – Artist Reception
11/30 | The Drawing Room | 599 Valencia St, SF | 5 p.m. | Free
This show features the wild and woolly works of three artists: Andrea Bergen, Fuzz E. Grant, and Richard Menendez. Each artist grapples with the emotions and inner lives of animals — and how their universes intersect with the humans they lean on for their existence or who have left them to their own devices at dog parties and in dystopic wastelands. These animals judge, gorge, bicker and play in these fantastical landscapes. Show runs through January 12th.
Rudimental
11/30 | Public Works | 161 Erie St, SF | 9 p.m. | $43.17, 21+
Rudimental are a British drum and bass band. The band consists of Piers Aggett, Kesi Dryden and Leon “Locksmith” Rolle.
Fousheé
11/30 | The Independent | 628 Divisadero St, SF | 9 p.m. | $38.08
With Pointy Heights, Fousheé zigs out of the frenetic R&B-punk of her acclaimed previous album, softCORE, as she paints an entirely new sonic palette. Playing the part of singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and producer, we enter a world shaped by her home, where old school, indie Reggae, rhythms buoy dance-friendly melodies and a natural cool that makes her the go-to collaborator for today’s biggest artists.
Polyglamorous Leftovers w/ Leonce
11/30 | The Great Northern | 119 Utah St, SF | 10 p.m. | $19.51-$31.29, 21+
Polyglamorous returns to The Great Northern for our annual post-Thanksgiving blowout. This year we are featuring the one and only Leonce, DJ and Producer extraordinaire, who released his debut album “System of Objects” earlier this year, to great acclaim.
Punk Band Karaoke
11/30 | Ivy Room | 860 San Pablo Ave, Albany | 8 p.m. | Free, 21+
PUNK ROCK KARAOKE – Sing punk rock with a live band!
Baba’s House Presents: Homecoming (3 year anniversary)
11/30 | Baba’s House | 410 15th St 2nd Floor, Oakland | 6 p.m. | $20-$60
After 3 years of Music, Fine Art, Fundraisers, Spoken Word, Karaoke, Stand up Comedy, Mahjong, Dancing, Snacks, and well, the growth of a warm and colorful community… IT’S TIME TO DO IT ALL AGAIN!! We will be celebrating all day & night starting with doing what we do best!
Sunday, 12/1
Dom We Now Our Gay Apparel
12/1 | OASIS | 298 11th St, SF | 7 p.m. | $33.78, 21+
Dominick Pupa, nightclub sensation and cohost of the hit podcast Fixing Famous People, returns to Oasis with Dom We Now Our Gay Apparel, his acclaimed annual skewering of the year that was. Jokes, songs, one elf, no shelf.
Castro Art Mart
12/2 | Noe St between Market and Beaver St, SF | 12 p.m. | Donation
Every first Sunday, mark your calendars for shopping joy therapy in San Francisco’s iconic Castro neighborhood bursting to the brim from noon-5p with the fabulous Castro Art Mart featuring dozens and dozens of local artists and small businesses taking over Noe St infusing creative joy and queer spirits to uplift our lives!
Monday, 12/2
A John Waters Christmas
12/2 | Great American Music Hall | 859 O’Farrell St, SF | 8 p.m. | $67.50-$135
Once again Waters is touring the country on his slippery sled of sewage with his comedy bag of tricks, handing out filthy sticks and stones to bad little nonbinary boys and girls and everybody in between and beyond. Ninety minutes of Christmas jeer and holiday beatings!
The Week of 12/3-12/9
Peter Pan: Panto in the Presidio
12/3-12/29 | Presidio Theatre | 99 Moraga Ave, SF | 6 p.m. | $17-$68
Now in its fourth year, Panto in the Presidio has quickly become a San Francisco holiday staple. The annual production is a uniquely San Franciscan twist on the British tradition of holiday pantomimes (more commonly known as Pantos) which are over-the-top musical theater parodies of popular children’s stories and folklore. Join in the Panto traditions of booing the villains, cheering the heroes, and singing along to popular songs played by a live band. Oh, and watch out for flying candy!
And That’s Why We Drink
12/3 | The Palace of Fine Arts | 3301 Lyon St, SF | 7 p.m. | $22-$55
Hosted by New York Times best selling authors Em Schulz and Christine Schiefer, “And That’s Why We Drink” is an award-winning comedy podcast, where the paranormal and true-crime meet.
Civic Center Plaza Tree Lighting
12/4 | Civic Center Plaza | 335 McAllister St, SF | 4 p.m. | Free, All ages
The annual Civic Center Plaza Tree Lighting event returns December 4, 4-7pm! Add this fun, free, family-friendly event to your holiday calendar; featuring festive performances led by Boxcar Theatre’s Artistic Director Nick A. Olivero, with the night’s lineup including music, performances, and appearances by Christmas VIPs and the man-of-the-hour: Santa!
Unscripted: A Conversation with Cher
12/4 | Golden Gate Theatre | 1 Taylor St, SF | 7:30 p.m. | $99-$149Join Cher as she discusses her new book, Cher: The Memoir, Part One, in this one night only event, which includes a moderated conversation and Q&A. All attendees will receive an unsigned copy of the book, included in the price of tickets. Unscripted: A Conversation with Cher will be moderated by Joel Selvin.
Thursday 12/5
12/5 | The Guild Theatre | 949 El Camino Real, Menlo Park | 8 p.m. | $66.05-$122.83
For over 35 years, alt-rock icons Better Than Ezra have maintained a direct line to the unbridled joy of making music, endlessly dreaming up songs with an uncanny power to linger forever in the listener’s heart. Their first album in a decade, Super Magick, ultimately sets Better Than Ezra apart from legions of legacy acts and reveals a band more enchanted than ever with the sublime alchemy of truly heartfelt rock-and-roll.
Senses Fail / Saves The Day
12/5 | The Regency Ballroom | 1300 Van Ness Ave, SF | 7:30 p.m. | $35-$55
“New Jersey vs. The World” is a co-headline tour featuring Senses Fail and Saves The Day, both from New Jersey. They will be performing their respective iconic albums, “Let It Enfold You'” and “Through Being Cool” in their entirety.
NightLife: Santa Claude’s Workshop
12/5 | California Academy of Sciences | 55 Music Concourse Dr, SF | 6 p.m. | $22.95
Santa Claude is comin’ to town! Shop your heart away at our merry marketplace of gift-worthy treasures.
Friday 12/6
Peppermint Bark Day
12/6 | Ghiradelli Square | 900 North Point St, SF | 3 p.m. | Free, All ages
Visit the Main Plaza of Ghirardelli Square on Friday, December 6 from 3:00pm – 7:00pm for the annual celebration of Peppermint Bark Day with Ghirardelli Chocolate! Meet Santa for photos and pick up a Peppermint Bark Square, enjoy live music, create custom holiday crafts, take a holiday photo in a pop-up photo booth, and so much more! All Peppermint Bark-themed, and all FREE!
SF Ballet Presents The Nutcracker
12/6-12/29 | War Memorial Opera House | 301 Van Ness Ave, SF | 7 p.m. | $35-$388
Experience the wonder of your first Nutcracker all over again. As the lights fade and Tchaikovsky’s enchanting melodies fill the Opera House, you’ll be whisked away to a fantastical realm where snowflakes dance, flowers waltz, and the Sugarplum Fairy conjures a child’s dream. Celebrate 20 years of Tomasson’s beloved holiday classic with us—it’s a festive journey you’ll never forget.
An Evening With Dawes
12/6 | The Fillmore | 1805 Geary Blvd, SF | 8 p.m. | $39.50
Dawes is an American folk rock band from Los Angeles, California, composed of brothers Taylor (guitars and vocals) and Griffin Goldsmith (drums). The band has been described as being influenced by the Laurel Canyon sound, found in such artists as Crosby, Stills, and Nash, Joni Mitchell and Neil Young.
Brad Williams
12/6 | Pramount Theatre | 2025 Broadway, Oakland | 7 p.m. | $29.50-$49.50
Pound for pound, Brad Williams is the funniest comedian in the country right now and has become one of the most in-demand comedians working today. Williams started doing stand-up comedy as a teenager and has been touring successfully ever since, routinely selling out prestigious venues all over the country and world!
The Dandy Warhols
12/6 & 12/7 | Bimbo’s 365 Club | 1025 Columbus Ave, SF | 8 p.m. | $48.88-$140.55, 21+
Celebrate the 30 Year Anniversary of The Dandy Warhols!
North Beach Vintage Holiday Market
12/6 | The Paper Doll | 524 Union St, SF | 4 p.m. | Free, All ages
This year’s Holiday Market promises to be the perfect destination for holiday shoppers looking to find unique, one-of-a-kind treasures. Attendees can expect an array of vintage clothing, accessories, home decor, and upcycled creations, all presented by local artists and entrepreneurs passionate about the craft of sustainability and the charm of yesteryear.
Saturday 12/7
Christmas Concerts at Grace Cathedral
12/7-12/23 | Grace Cathedral | 1100 California St, SF | 7:30 p.m. | $18-$107
Christmas Concerts at Grace Cathedral have been a beloved San Francisco tradition since 1947. The magnificent music, gorgeous setting, and astonishing acoustics make a wonderful way to welcome the holiday season. Celebrate the season this December with the timeless beauty of the Choir of Men and Boys, the Bay Area’s finest brass musicians, joyful family sing-alongs, and vibrant, jazzy holiday renditions. Experience the deep connection between spirit and art while making joyful holiday memories at Grace!
Dogpatch Winter Market
12/7 | Museum of Craft and Design | 2569 3rd St, SF | 11 a.m. | Free, All ages
Join us in person for a cozy shopping experience filled with local vendors offering handmade crafts, artisanal foods, and more. Whether you’re looking for a special present or just want to soak up some holiday cheer, this market has something for everyone. Wander. Shop. Sip. Buy. In the order that helps you enjoy the day. Arts organizations, artists and local small businesses are open. Welcome to Dogpatch.
Alameda Rock & Roll Flea Market
12/7 | Faction Brewing | 2501 Monarch St, Alameda | 11 a.m. | Free, All ages
75 vendors selling records, music memorabilia, musical instruments, vintage clothing, tiki/Hawaiiana, handmade jewelry & gifts, books, videos, and much more!
Pop-Ups on the Plaza: Black Holiday Market
12/7 | Ferry Plaza Farmers Market | 1 Ferry Building, SF | 9 a.m. | Free, All ages
Celebrate local Black-owned businesses and get ready for the holiday season with a day of delicious food, crafts, community, and family fun at the Ferry Plaza Farmers Market. The south arcade of the Ferry Building will be transformed for a special holiday market featuring 15+ Bay Area food makers and designers, in partnership with the Fillmore-based Black-led marketplace In the Black. Find thoughtful gifts and stocking stuffers for everyone on your list, like baked goods, food crafts, skincare, apparel and accessories, gift cards, and more.
Sunday 12/8
Deck The Hall
12/8 | Davies Symphony Hall | 201 Van Ness Ave, SF | 11 a.m. & 3 p.m. | $70-$100
Treat your family to a concert of holiday favorites and sing-alongs led by conductor Daniel Bartholomew-Poyser with members of the San Francisco Symphony, guest artists, and beloved costumed characters.
5th Annual Bernal Holidays on the Hill Faire
12/8 | Bernal Heights, SF | 11 a.m. | Free, All ages
The Bernal Heights annual neighborhood “Holidays on the Hill” event is back. Neighbor-run event to support local artists, craftspeople and small businesses.
Santa Skivvies Run 2024
12/8 | Lookout | 3600 16th St, SF | 9 a.m. | Register & Donate
Santa Skivvies is an annual holiday underwear fun run/walk and fundraiser benefiting San Francisco AIDS Foundation.
Monday 12/9
RWF World Tree of Hope Celebration
12/9 | Grace Cathedral | 1100 California St, SF | 6:30 p.m. | Free, All ages
This December, thousands of origami cranes inscribed with wishes for the future of the world will decorate the 19th annual Rainbow World Fund (RWF) World Tree of Hope at Grace Cathedral in San Francisco, CA. Join us as we gather wishes and hopes for the future of our global community and give them wings.
The Week of 12/10-12/16
Tuesday 12/10
Dating with Dhaya Game Show – 55+ Edition
12/10 | The Commons, KQED Headquarters | 2601 Mariposa St, SF | 7 p.m. | $23
Looking for love in the digital age is tricky, especially for love-seekers over 55! This edition of Dating with Dhaya is here to help. Comedian Dhaya Lakshminarayanan plays matchmaker for one lucky person while subjecting local contestants to hilarious rounds of revealing questions (and some gentle roasting) as they search for a date. Will Cupid’s arrow hit a target? Will it even matter when you’re laughing so hard? Before the show, we’ll host trivia happy hour at 6pm for those looking to make platonic connections.
Billie Eilish: Hit Me Hard And Soft: The Tour
12/10 & 12/11 | SAP Center | 525 W Santa Clara St, San Jose | 7 p.m. | $55.50-$495.50
Billie Eilish will continue her long-standing partnership with environmental nonprofit REVERB on this tour. Building on the success of previous sustainability efforts, this tour will focus on reducing greenhouse gas pollution, decreasing single-use plastic waste, supporting climate action, and updating concession offerings to promote and encourage plant-based food options with Support+Feed and other not-for-profit organizations.
Sixpence None the Richer
12/10 | Great American Music Hall | 859 O’Farrell St, SF | 8 p.m. | $35-$40
The We Are Love Tour is a 25th anniversary tour that features all four original members: Leigh Nash, Matt Slocum, Dale Baker, and Justin Cary. The band is celebrating the anniversary of their self-titled album, also known as Kiss Me.
Wednesday 12/11
Ferry Building Holiday Open House + Wine Tasting
12/11 | Ferry Building | 1 Ferry Building, SF | 5:30 p.m. | Free w/ RSVP
Sip and shop locally, decorate cookies, enjoy music from the Awesome Orchestra Jazz Band, make a holiday gnome, and snap a holiday portrait inside the Marketplace from 5:30pm – 7:30pm.
We Own the Laughs
12/11 | Cobb’s Comedy Club | 915 Columbus Ave, SF | 7:30 p.m. | $20.50-$28.50, 18+
We Own The Laughs allows you to laugh at life with friends while witnessing amazing stand-up comedy from some of the biggest comedians in the country. Host: Corde Snell. Featuring Comedians: Mario Castillo, Wally Hipolito, Audacious, Jonny Rios, Karla Garcia , and Tyson Paul.
12/11 | El Rio | 3158 Mission St, SF | 6 p.m. | $35 donation
The word on the street is that we’re throwing a PARTY! JOIN US for a night of stories from Street Sheet Alumni and our Veteran Vendors. All Donations will go towards a year-long Fundraising goal of $90,000! We want to ensure Street Sheet remains a San Francisco staple for years!
Thursday 12/12
Echosmith
12/12 | Brick & Mortar Music Hall | 1710 Mission St, SF | 8:30 p.m. | $31.84 – $60.68, All ages
Echosmith is back on the road for their Cool Kids: The Decade Tour! You wont want to miss this amazing show! Multi-platinum alt-pop trio Echosmith—siblings Sydney (vocals, keys), Noah (bass, vocals,production), and Graham Sierota (drums)—share vulnerable and vibrant alternative popanthems that immediately brighten the heart.
The Muppet Christmas Carol—In Concert
12/12& 12/14 | Davies Symphony Hall | 201 Van Ness Ave, SF | 7:30 p.m. & 2 p.m. respectively | $41.50-$248
Join Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, and all the hilarious Muppets in this merry, magical version of Charles Dickens’ classic tale. Michael Caine stars as penny-pinching Ebenezer Scrooge who learns the true meaning of Christmas. Watch this beloved holiday classic on the big screen as the Symphony performs the score live with Conductor Susie Benchasil Seiter.
12/12 & 12/13 | The Masonic | 1111 California St, SF | 8 p.m. | $63.50-$97
Matteo Lane is a multifaceted talent known for his unique blend of stand-up comedy, musical prowess and artistic versatility. Previously named as one of Variety’s “10 Comics to Watch” and described by Advocate as “bold and unflinchingly genuine,” Lane tackles a wide range of topics from his experiences as a gay man to hilarious insights into everyday life.
12/12 | Monarch | 101 6th St, SF | 9 p.m. | $7.74, 21+
In the rave cave, our regular Amatric will team up with the local legends DJ Cira and Arashism to make you dance to a cosmic blend of italo, synth pop, disco, and house music. Meanwhile, in the lounge, some of our favorite selectors John Glass, On the Rocks and Rafa S. will provide a superb soundtrack to your night out. Dress to express! Holiday or space-themed attire is encouraged, but not required!
Friday 12/13
Murals of the Tenderloin Walking Tour “I Love TL Day” Edition
12/13 | Tenderloin Museum | 399 Eddy St, SF | 2:30 p.m. | Sliding Scale
To mark the December 2024 “I Love Tenderloin Day,” Tenderloin Museum offers a walking tour of the neighborhood that highlights some of the neighborhood’s iconic murals as well as less obvious public artworks hidden in plain sight. Led by TLM Program Director Alex Spoto, this celebratory survey explores how the neighborhood’s built environment serves as a canvas for resident artists and neighborhood advocates to tell the story of the Tenderloin, its community, and its culture.
Winter Walk 2024
12/13-12/22 | Union Square | Geary, Powell, Post, & Stockton St, SF | 10 a.m. | Free, All ages
Winter Walk, a 10-day holiday street fair on Stockton Street, will feature a two- block lively walk, transformed into a winter holiday plaza adorned with turf, featuring an array of food trucks and bar options, a marketplace of local merchants curated by Sunset Mercantile, specialty desserts exclusive only to Winter Walk created by One65 and Flour & Branch, visually captivating experiences featuring contemporary Arctic décor, and various exciting performances.
KQED Holiday Night Market
The Commons, KQED Headquarters | 2601 Mariposa St, SF | 5 p.m. | $11.50
Want to get in the holiday mood by supporting Bay Area creators? Local food and craft vendors take over KQED’s headquarters at this seasonal night market. Chocolatiers, jewelry makers, ceramicists, bakers and more highlight their hidden gems and niche finds for shoppers of all ages — and they are ready to help you to find great gifts for your loved ones.
Circus Bella Presents: Kaleidoscope – Winter Big Top Holiday Spectacular
12/13-1/5 | The Crossing at East Cut | 250 Main St, SF | 4 p.m. | $55 – $75, All ages
“Kaleidoscope” is the perfect show for families and children of all ages, looking for a joyous holiday event that will stay with you all season long and beyond! Performed in the round in a 350-seat Circus Tent, the beauty of “Kaleidoscope” is the intimacy and immediacy of the one-ring circus. A diverse cast of 12 perform thrilling feats of balance and strength, demonstrations of grace and poise, outrageous humor, and slapstick antics. Original music is performed live by our beloved 6-piece Circus Bella All-Star Band. Let yourself be dazzled and join in the celebration.
Glow on Front: A Neon Block Party
12/13 | Front Street Entertaiment Zone | Front St between California & Sacramento, SF | 5 p.m. | Free, All ages
Glow on Front: A Neon Block Party is part of Let’s Glow SF, San Francisco’s FREE outdoor holiday projection arts festival. This FREE all-ages block party is taking place on Front Street Entertainment Zone, home to iconic downtown bars such as Harrington’s Bar and Grill, Schroeder’s, and Royal Exchange. Enjoy LED glow performers from Circosphere, glow face painters, a 360 photo booth, a black light community mural, and a live DJ with an LED dance floor at the block party!
Festivus Fest! Hosted By Chaki The Funk Wizard
12/13 | Thee Stork Club | 2330 Telegraph Ave, Oakland | 8 p.m. | $10, 21+
Mosswood Meltdown presents… A Festivus Fest for the Restivus. Holiday Fundraiser for Oakland’s Punks with Lunch hosted by Chaki the Funk Wizard, Diesel Dudes performing the Feats of Strength, George Crustanza performing the Airing of Grievances, and Punk Rock Karaoke!
Saturday 12/14
Harajuku Market & Lumpia Fest Pasko Edition
12/14 | Cow Palace | 2600 Geneva Ave, Daly City | 10 a.m. | $5.58-$17.85
Get ready for some of the Bay’s tastiest food selections!!! Featuring everyone’s favorite… LUMPIA! We will have amazing food you won’t find anvwhere else along with all your favorite iconic cute characters that will be showcased plus photo opportunities with some of your favorite cute characters! You definitely don’t want to miss out on all the cute exclusive merch that our Harajuku Vendors will be bringing out just in time for the HOLIDAYS!!!
BERTHA: Grateful Drag
12/14 | The UC Theatre | 2036 University Ave, Berkeley | 8 p.m. | $38.50-$293.50
The world’s first Grateful Drag band, BERTHA is an all-star collective of queer and allied East Nashville talent coming together in wigs and full face for a good cause. Fronted by a harmony trio of Berthas and backed by a rocking all-Bertha band, they are bringing the good times to Berkeley!
Annual Krampus Pageant
12/14 | El Rio | 3158 Mission St, SF | 3 p.m. | Donation
Join San Francisco Krampus and The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence as they honor the scary side of the holiday season with their annual Krampus Pageant, raising funds to support LGBTQ+ youth. The pageant will feature spooky drag performances, DJs, amazing costumes, and live music throughout the evening. The winner will take home a special effects makeup gift package, while other top contestants will receive unique prizes to help them through the holiday season—if you catch our drift…
Shadow Circus Voidville: Void to the World
12/14 | Ocean Room SF | 350 Ocean Ave, SF | 8 p.m. | $25
The Bay Area’s belligerent puppet-hosted variety show returns with a chaotic celebration of the holidays with ‘Shadow Circus Voidville: Void to the World!’ Watch as our long-suffering host Jade tries to hold a holiday show together despite a troublesome little brother, a scheming Deinonychus, a boozed up Sasquatch, and a diabolical lab monkey! With a menagerie of hand-crafted puppets from Shadow Circus Creature Theatre (as seen in Peaches Christ’s Terror Vault, Kat Robichaud’s Misfit Cabaret, Pop Culture Immersive’s Sunnydale Prom and Creepy KOFY Movie Time) this is the most outlandish and unique holiday show you’ll see this year!
Princess: A ‘WICKED’ Experience!
12/14 | OASIS | 298 11th St, SF | 10 p.m. | $16.89
A DISCO-POP DANCE PARTY, DRAG SPECTACULAR+ TRIBUTE TO ALL THE HITS FROM “WICKED”! Come dressed in your favorite OZ look, and watch our drag stars recreate all your favorite musical numbers from the hit Broadway musical/movie! We have a huge cast for this one doing almost the whole show, do not miss it!
Sunday 12/15
Hubba Hubba Revue – Holiday Spectacular
12/15 | DNA Lounge | 375 11th St, SF | 7 p.m. Doors | $19.50-$39, 18+
‘Twas the night of big Hubba and all through the house, the showgirls were shaking their shimmy belts out! Their stockings were fastened to garters with care, in hopes San Francisco soon would be there!
12/15 | The Fillmore | 1805 Geary Blvd, SF | 8 p.m. | $58.50
Social Distortion’s musical style began as decidedly hardcore punk when the band formed in the late 1970s. They are thought to be one of the pioneering bands of the original Southern California punk rock movement out of Orange County, California, and their style closely associated with the Adolescents, Agent Orange, the Germs, and other bands from that place and time.
12/15 | Freight & Salvage | 2020 Addison St, Berkeley | 7 p.m. | $26.50-$49
Jerron “Blind Boy” Paxton is a masterful multi-instrumentalist and captivating storyteller, renowned for his ability to transport audiences back to the 1920s with his rich blend of blues, jazz, and folk. Known as “The American Songster®,” Dom Flemons is a versatile musician whose repertoire spans over a century of American roots music, including country, folk, bluegrass, Americana, and blues. Xavier Amin Dphrepaulezz, better known by his stage name Fantastic Negrito, is an American singer-songwriter whose music spans blues, R&B, and roots music.
12/15 | The Independent | 628 Divisadero St, SF | 8 p.m. | $27.27-$48.90, 21+
Nat’s panoramic songwriting and baritone vocals play a defining role in Hot Buttered Rum’s sound. Since founding HBR in 1999, Nat has played thousands of shows all over the world and written hundreds of songs. For 19 years now, Nat has produced and presented the Nat Keefe Concert Carnival, a holiday cabaret variety show, with cast and crew of 25+, at the Independent. This has become a cherished San Francisco tradition.
X: Putting the X Back in Xmas
12/16 | Cornerstone | 2367 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley | 8 p.m. | $59.16-$68.93
Formed in 1977, X quickly established themselves as one of the best bands in the first wave of LA’s flourishing punk scene; becoming legendary leaders of a punk generation.
18th Annual Winterdance Celtic Christmas Celebration
12/16 | The Lost Church SF | 988 Columbus Ave, SF | 7:30 p.m. Doors | $40.05
Celtic music, championship Irish step dance. Making his Winterdance debut on guitar, mandolin and vocals, we’re honored to share the stage this year with Wake the Dead’s Paul Kotapish. This year’s show welcomes back the soaring vocals of Amelia Hogan, Molly’s Revenge/New World String Project fiddler, John Weed, and the banjo and mandolin artistry of rising Carmel artist Tyler Weed. All Ireland Irish step dancers Marisa Gilman and Cameron Carson Riddle will bring a percussive and visually stunning element to this 18th year of Celtic Christmas Celebration.
Don’t forget to check out our Big Bad List of Rad Ongoing Events right here!
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