holiday

Holiday listings are compiled by Cheryl Eddy. Listings for Dec 10-Dec 16 below; check back each week for updated events. For information on how to submit a listing, see 8 Days a Week.

attractions

Crissy Field Center 603 Mason, Presidio; 561-7752, www.crissyfield.org. $5-18 (pre-registration required). Sat/13: "Sustainable Sno-Globes" workshop (10am-noon); "Gift Sacks and Seasonal Stockings" workshop (1-4pm).

Exploratorium 3601 Lyon; EXP-LORE. $8-9.50. Fri/12, noon: "Iron Science Teacher Holiday Webcast," Iron Chef-style competition among science teachers to create classroom activities. Sat/13, noon, 1pm, 2pm, and 3pm: "Basket Making with Michele Hament," recommended for adults and kids eight years old and up. Sun/14, noon-4pm: "Gift Making with SCRAP," make small sculptures and cards with recycled materials.

'Great Dickens Christmas Fair' Cow Palace, 2600 Geneva; 897-4555, www.dickensfair.com. Sat-Sun, 11am-7pm. Through Dec 21. $6-20 (season pass $25-55; parking $7). This annual event invokes Charles Dickens's London with strolling performers, costumed Victorian characters, food booths, and vendors selling arts and crafts.

'Holiday Gingerbread House Contest and Display' Pan Pacific San Francisco, 500 Post; 771-8600. Through Dec 30. The 18-story hotel lobby hosts a competitive display of holiday gingerbread houses built by local pastry chefs, culinary school students, home cooks, and youths.

Kristi Yamaguchi Holiday Ice Rink Embarcadero Center, Justin Herman Plaza (foot of Market); 772-0500, www.embarcaderocenter.com. Daily, 10am-10pm (Fri-Sat, open until 11:30pm). Through Jan 4. $3.50-7.50 (skate rental, $3.50). Aspiring gold medalists and klutzes alike are welcomed at the seasonal outdoor rink. Wed/10, 6-8pm: "Watt a Bright Idea!" event with VIP skate night, photos and autographs with Kristi Yamaguchi, and more; proceeds benefit Yamaguchi's Always Dream Foundation ($250).

Metreon 101 Fourth St; www.metreon.com. Through Dec 28. The mall hosts indoor snowfalls (daily, noon, 2pm, 4pm, 6pm, and 8pm), plus "Studio 105," featuring Live 105 radio broadcasts daily and appearances by rock stars and celebrities.

Bay Area

Children's Fairyland 699 Bellevue, Oakl; (510) 452-2259, www.fairyland.org. Fri-Sun, 10am-4pm. $6. Sat/13-Sun/14: "Santa Comes to Fairyland!" (noon-3pm); "Fairyland Children's Theatre" (noon and 3pm); "DC Dance Center" (Sat/13 only, 12:30pm and 1:30pm); Jacqueline Lynaugh performs as the Snow Queen (Sun/14 only, 12:30pm and 1:30pm); "Magic Flute Puppet Show" (11am, 2pm, 4pm); arts and crafts (noon-3pm).

'Holidays at Dunsmuir' Dunsmuir Historic Estate, 2960 Peralta Oaks Ct, Oakl; (925) 275-9490, www.dunsmuir.org. Sat-Sun, 11am-5pm. Through Dec 21. $7-15. The historic 50-acre Oakland Hills estate hosts ongoing tours, holiday teas, craft booths, Father Christmas visits, and more.

Solano Avenue Solano Ave, Berkeley and Albany; www.solanoave.org. Free. Santa Claus drops by (Sat, 1-3pm, through Dec 20, Peralta Park, 1561 Solano; Sun, 1-3pm, through Dec 21, Sweet Potatoes, 1224 Solano) as part of the neighborhood fun, which also includes street performers, candlelight caroling (Dec 20, 5-7pm, 1245 Solano), a "sock tree" sock drive (through Dec 30), live music, and more.

'Spirit of the Holidays Crafts Faire' Sonoma County Fairgrounds, Grace Pavilion, 1350 Bennett Valley, Santa Rosa; www.spiritofchristmasfaire.com. Fri/12, noon-8pm; Sat/13-Sun/14, 10am-6pm. $2-5. This year's fair boasts a "North Pole/Elfin Village" theme, with costumed characters, craft booths, wine tastings, and continuous live entertainment.

benefits

'Fostering a Safe and Caring Holiday Season' Hayes Valley Community Partners, 691 Hayes; 921-4195. Low-income families and youth benefit from the activities of Hayes Valley Community Partners. Sat/13, 1-3pm: Wreath and card-making workshop; Dec 17, noon-4pm: Assemble food boxes; donations and volunteers needed; Dec 18-19, noon-4pm: Deliver food boxes; drivers and volunteers needed; Dec 23, time TBA: Community dinner and toy giveaway; volunteers needed.

'Help Is on the Way for the Holidays' Herbst Theatre, 401 Van Ness; 273-1620, www.helpisontheway.org. Mon/15, 5:30pm (preshow silent auction); 7:30pm (show). $35-100. See 8 Days a Week.

'Ho Ho Ho Holiday Party' Cafe Mars, 798 Brannan; 621-6277. Thurs/11, 9pm-2am. Bring an unwrapped toy. The Tenderloin After School Center benefits from this toy drive; the party features live music by Little Giant Jazz Trio and DJs Andy Caldwell and Jerry Ross, among others.

'Keeping Our Eyes Open' Precita Eyes Mural Arts and Visitors Center, 2981 24th St; 285-2287. Thurs/11, 6pm (store hours Mon-Fri, 10am-5pm; Sat, 10am-4pm; Sun, noon-4pm; closed Dec 24-25 and Dec 30-Jan 1). $5. This event features a reception, mural calendar signing, and slide presentation about a mural project in Russia; in addition, stop by the center during open hours to purchase mural prints and other items. Proceeds support the Precita Eyes Muralists.

'Macy's Union Square Holiday Tree' Purchase tickets to sponsor lights and strings of lights at UCSF Medical Center, 505 Parnassus; UCSF Mount Zion Medical Center, 1600 Divisadero; or 1-888-689-UCSF, www.ucsfhealth.org/tree. Through Dec 24. $10 a light. Help illuminate the giant tree at Macy's Union Square by sponsoring a light; proceeds go to UCSF Children's Hospital to help children with life-threatening illnesses and their families.

'Night Moves' New Langton Arts, 1246 Folsom; 626-5416, www.newlangtonarts.org. Preview Wed/10-Thurs/11, noon-6pm (free). Reception Thurs/11, 6pm ($100-125). Auction Thurs/11, 7:30-11pm ($35-45). See 8 Days a Week.

'One Warm Coat' Community service booth (across from Ann Taylor), Stonestown, 19th Ave at Winston; 564-8848, www.shopstonestown.com. Sat, noon-6pm. Through Jan 3. The Girl Scouts of the San Francisco Bay Area collect clean, reusable coats (hats, gloves, scarves, and other outerwear are also accepted) to be passed on to children and adults in need.

'Santa's Workshop on Union Street' 2122 Union; 456-6455. Sat, noon-4pm. Through Dec 20. Free. The man in the red suit opens his workshop for meetin' and greetin'. Visitors are encouraged (but not required) to bring toy donations for the San Francisco Firefighters' Toy Program.

'Shop ... Christmas Boutique Sale' 899 Mission; 217-7230. Fri/12-Sat/13, 10am-7pm. Free. A Miner Miracle, which provides interview attire and image counseling to low-income men and women, benefits from this affordable-gift sale.

'Sing-it-Yourself Messiah and More' Ocean Ave Presbyterian Church, 32 Ocean; 587-1100. Fri/13, 8pm. $8-12. Conductor Mildred Yi leads this concert of selections from Mozart, Brahms, and chamber music; proceeds benefit the SafeHouse for Women Leaving Prostitution.

'Soulful Holidays Celebration' Reservations, 615-9945, www.bcoa.org. Fri/12, call for time and location information. $75-250. The Black Coalition on AIDS hosts this fundraiser to support African American community health initiatives; the evening includes a motorized trolley tour of local jazz clubs for music and dancing.

'Teddy Bear Tea' Ritz-Carlton, 600 Stockton; 773-6198, www.ritzcarlton.com. Daily, 10-11:30am and 1-2:30pm. Through Dec 24. $58. The Greater Bay Area Make-a-Wish Foundation benefits from this daily activity (with storytelling, hot chocolate and cookies, balloons, and more) for kids and their stuffed animals.

'Tenderloin Tessie's Holiday Dinners' volunteers First Unitarian Church, 1187 Franklin; 255-7503, 922-0422. Dec 25, 12:15pm-4pm and 4pm-6pm. Volunteers are needed to help prepare and serve holiday meals; call to sign up.

'Wreaths for the Arts' New Conservatory Theatre Center lobby, 25 Van Ness; 861-4914, www.nctsf.org. Tues-Sat, 1:30-7pm; Sun, noon-5pm. Through Dec 21. Wreaths designed by local and national celebrities, public officials, designers, and NCTC students are on display (and on sale, $50-500) to benefit the theater's YouthAware Programs and Conservatory scholarships.

Bay Area

'Santa Paws' Pet Food Express, 2220 Mountain Blvd, Ste. 170, Oakl; www.smileydog.org, www.pawseastbay.org. Sat/13, 11am-3pm. (Also Sun/14, 11am-3pm, Redhound, 5525 College, Oakl). $25. Smiley Dog Rescue and Pets Are Wonderful Support/East Bay benefit from this event, which enables pet owners (dogs, cats, birds, and fish are welcome) to be photographed with Santa.

'Toys for Tots Christmas Dinner' King's Head Pub, 201 Orchard City, Campbell; (408) 370-7949, www.southbayscots.org. Sat/13, 5:30-9pm. $25-28 (plus an unwrapped toy). The South Bay Scottish Society hosts a benefit for Toys for Tots featuring a hearty dinner and live music by harpist Barbary Grant.

tree lightings and celebrations

'Community Music Center's Holiday Party' Community Music Center, 544 Capp; 647-6015, www.sfmusic.org. Sun/14, 11:30am. Free. This party features performances by the San Francisco Children's Chorus and the Ina Chalis Opera Ensemble; Santa Claus also stops by.

'Fillmore Street Holiday Stroll' Fillmore between Sutter and Jackson, and adjacent streets; www.fillmorestreetsf.com. Thurs, 6-9pm. Through Dec 18. Free. At this event, participating Fillmore neighborhood merchants stay open late and provide refreshments and discounts to holiday shoppers.

'Ghirardelli Square's Jollyday' Ghirardelli Square, West Plaza, 900 North Point; 775-5500, www.ghirardellisq.com. Sat/13, noon-4pm. Free. Santa Claus puts in an appearance at this event, which also includes holiday caroling, the Fratello Marionettes, storytelling, and more.

'Lighted Yacht Parade' Waterfront from Fort Mason to Crissy Field; 563-6363. Sat/13, 6-7pm. Free. More than 30 boats from the St. Francis Yacht Club and other groups cruise the waterfront decked out in full holiday regalia.

'Salsacrazy.com Holiday Party' Canvas Gallery, 1200 Ninth Ave; www.salsacrazy.com. Sat/13, 8pm. $10-15. Live salsa music, dance performances, and beginning salsa lessons highlight this high-energy dance party.

'San Francisco Bicycle Coalition's Winterfest' SomArts Cultural Center, 834 Brannan; 431-BIKE, www.sfbike.org. Sun/14, 6-10:30pm. $5 (members only; membership available at door for $25). The "biggest bicycle party in the Bay Area" includes a bicycle art show, food and beer, live music, an auction, and more.

'SFDOG Holiday Party' Fort Mason Center, Bldg C, Rm C-370, Marina at Laguna; 339-7461. Mon/15, 7:30-9:30pm. Free. San Francisco Dog Owners Group hosts its annual party, with food and drink for canines and humans, free dog photos, and more.

'Snow Ball: An International Extravaganza' Cafe Cocomo, 650 Indiana; (415) 824-6910, www.garagesf.com. Fri/12, 8:45pm. $17-20. A strict dress code – Santa attire, and/or "as much red and white as you can" – is enforced at this DJ party, with music by DJ Aykut from Istanbul, DJ Stranger spinning Russian music, DJ Pheeko DubFunk from Paris, and more. Bring a new toy (no war toys) for the Glide Memorial Church Kids Toy Drive.

'West Portal's Festival of Lights' West Portal neighborhood; 566-3500, info@westportalavenue.org. Through Jan 1. Neighborhood merchants decorate their windows; stop by to vote on awards in various holiday categories, including Best Winter Wonderland, Best Old Saint Nick, and Best Toyland.

'X-Mas SINsation' StudioZ.tv, 314 11th St; 252-7666. Sat/13, 8pm-2am. $20-50. "Exotic X-mas" is the theme of this event, which features a sexy Santa, a wet T-shirt contest, porn stars, strippers, an art exhibit with the work of illustrator Carlos Cartagena, a lingerie fashion show, and more.

Bay Area

'Telegraph Avenue Holiday Street Fair' Telegraph between Bancroft and Dwight, Berk; (510) 528-6983. Sat/13-Sun/14, Dec 20-21, and 23-24, 11am-6pm. Free. Berkeley's main shopping drag is filled with craft booths, food vendors, live music, and more.

'A Victorian Night of Crafts and Carols in Old Oakland' Old Oakland, Ninth St at Washington, Oakl; www.oldoakland.com. Fri/12, 5-9pm. Free. Old Oakland's Victorian architecture is the backdrop for this event, with costumed carolers and musicians, arts and crafts booths, kid's activities, and more.

music

'Bagpipe Traditions around the Winter Solstice' Slavonic Cultural Center, 60 Onondaga; (510) 649-0941, www.slavonicweb.org. Fri/12, 8pm. $12. Ferenc Tobak and guests present Bulgarian, Hungarian, Irish, Scottish, and Swedish music with bagpipes; bring bells, cowbells, and rattles to participate.

Blind Boys of Alabama Masonic Auditorium, 1111 California; 776-1999, www.sfjazz.org. Fri/12, 8pm. $25-55. The acclaimed gospel group performs holiday selections with special guests Aaron Neville and John Medeski.

'A Brass and Organ Christmas' Grace Cathedral, 1100 California; 1-866-468-3399, www.gracecathedral.org. Dec 19, 7:30pm. $15-40. The Bay Brass ensemble and organist Susan Jane Matthews perform holiday favorites and classical masterpieces.

'Candlelight Concert' Old First Church, 1751 Sacramento; (415) 474-1608, www.oldfirstconcerts.org. Fri/12, 8pm. $6-12. Children's ensemble Piedmont Choirs perform holiday songs by candlelight.

'A Cathedral Christmas' Grace Cathedral, 1100 California; 1-866-468-3399, www.gracecathedral.org. Sat-Sun, 3pm; Mon, 7pm. Through Dec 22. $15-50. The Grace Cathedral Choir and Orchestra unfurls a program of music for the holiday season.

'A Ceremony of Carols' Mission Dolores Basilica, 3321 16th St; (408) 746-0905, www.choralproject.org, www.ticketweb.com. Sat/13, 8pm. $15-20. The Choral Project performs works by various composers, including Benjamin Britten. See Web site for additional northern California concerts.

'A Chanticleer Christmas' St. Ignatius Church, 650 Parker; 392-4400, www.chanticleer.org, www.cityboxoffice.org. Sat/13, 8pm and Dec 21, 7pm. $22-37. (Also Tues/16, 8pm, First Congregational Church, 2345 Channing, Berk). The group performs medieval and Renaissance sacred works, traditional carols, and more. See Web site for additional northern California concerts.

Chorus of Hope Yerba Buena Gardens, Fourth St at Mission; www.passitaround.org. Sat/13, 1:30-3:30pm. Free. Presented by Pass It Around!, the chorus performs holiday songs in Latin, Hebrew, Swahili, French, German, and English.

'Holiday Music at the Ferry Building Marketplace' Embarcadero at Market; 693-0996, www.ferrybuildingmarketplace.com. Sun, 1-3pm. Through Dec 28. Free. This week: San Francisco State University's Choral Department presents a small ensemble performing classical and holiday music.

'Holidaze in Hicksville' Fillmore, 1805 Geary; 346-6000. Fri/12, 8pm. $35. Dan Hicks and the Hot Licks perform, with special guests.

King's Singers Herbst Theatre, 401 Van Ness; 398-6449, www.performances.org. Sat/13, 8pm. $28-52. San Francisco Performances presents the acclaimed vocal ensemble in a performance of traditional carols, contemporary works, and poetry and prose recitations.

'Kitka Presents Wintersongs' Old First Church, 1751 Sacramento; (415) 474-1608, www.oldfirstconcerts.org, www.kitka.org. Dec 19, 8pm. $9-12. The women's vocal ensemble performs Eastern European songs from a variety of ethnic and spiritual traditions. See Web site for additional northern California concerts.

'A Winter Celebration' Community Music Center, 544 Capp; 647-6015, www.sfmusic.org. Sun/14, 4pm. Free. Shirley Wong-Frentzel directs works from medieval chants to Bach concerti.

'Winter Mystic' St. Mary the Virgin, 2325 Union; 370-9552. Sat/13, 7pm. $8-20 (sliding scale). InTreble, a 13-woman a cappella group, performs holiday songs from around the world.

Bay Area

'Bones for the Holidays' Town Hall Theatre, 3535 School, Lafayette; (925) 283-1557. Sun/14, 3pm. $10-25. An all-trombone choir performs holiday selections; proceeds benefit the Gold Coast Chamber Players.

El Camino Youth Symphony Spangenberg Theatre, Gunn High School, 780 Arastradero, Palo Alto; (650) 327-2611, www.ecys.org. Sun/14, 2:30pm. $5-10. The award-winning youth symphony performs a holiday concert.

'Carols in the Caves' Hans Fahden Vineyards, 4855 Petrified Forest Rd, Calistoga; (925) 866-9559, www.carolsinthecaves.com. Sat/13-Sun/14, 2pm. $38. Multi-instrumental "improvisator" David Auerbach performs seasonal carols and folktales.

'A Christmas to Remember' Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian Church, 49 Knox, Lafayette; (415) 863-1752. Fri/12, 8pm. $12-22. (Also Sun/14, 7:30pm, Episcopal Church of St. Matthew, 1 El Camino Real, San Mateo, $12-22; Dec 23, 8pm, Davies Symphony Hall, Van Ness at Grove, S.F. $14-42). The San Francisco Girls Chorus performs its annual Christmas concert series. The first two shows feature touring ensembles in smaller venues; the San Francisco show features the full 270-member chorus and an audience sing-along.

'An International Christmas' Ascension Cathedral, 4700 Lincoln, Oakl; (510) 531-3400, www.ascensioncathedral.org. Fri/12, 8pm. Free. The Ascension Liturgical Choir presents its 34th annual concert, featuring carols, Greek Orthodox Christmas hymns, excerpts from Handel's Messiah, and more.

'Messiah Sing-a-long' College of San Mateo, Theatre (Bldg Three), 1700 W. Hillsdale Blvd, San Mateo; (650) 579-5568, www.masterworks.org. Thurs/11, 8pm. $10. The Masterworks Chorale and the Solaris Chamber Orchestra perform the Messiah, with audience participation.

Oakland City Center Above 12th St BART station, Oakl; www.oaklandcitycenter.com. Free. Roaming carolers spread holiday cheer (Wed and Fri, 11am-1pm, through Dec 19); classical pianists perform (lobby of 1111 Broadway; Wed, 11:30am-1:30pm and Fri, 4:30-6:30pm, through Dec 19).

'Santa Claus Is Coming to Town' Sanchez Concert Hall, 1220 Linda Mar, Pacifica; (415) 355-1822. Sun/14, 4pm. $10-18. Flugelhornist Dmitry Matheny and his jazz ensemble perform a family-friendly holiday concert.

'This Christmas' Stanford University, Campbell Recital Hall, Stanford Jazz Workshop, Stanford; (650) 725-2787, stanfordjazz.org. Sun/14, 7:30pm. $5-20. (Also Dec 24, 8 and 10pm, Yoshi's, 510 Embarcadero West, Jack London Square, Oakl; 510-238-9200, www.yoshis.com. $15.) Jazz singer Clairdee performs new and old holiday favorites.

hanukkah and kwanzaa

'Celebrate Chanukah-Kwanzaa' Women's Building, Auditorium, 3543 18th St; 957-1551, ext 109. Mon/15, 6:30-9pm. $10-20. The Isaiah Project, an African American and Jewish alliance group, hosts a celebration exploring the two holidays. Bring a canned-food donation.

'Maccabee Moments, Crafting Family Chanukah Memories' BJE Jewish Community Library, 1835 Ellis; 567-3327, library@bjesf.org. Sun/14, 1-3pm. Free. Artist Laurie Bellet leads a workshop on how to create a special banner to use at family Chanukah celebrations.

Bay Area

'Chanukah Celebration' Berkeley Richmond Jewish Community Center, 1414 Walnut, Berk; (510) 848-0237, ext 112, www.brjcc.org. Sun/14, 1-4pm. Free. Storytelling, holiday musical performances, games, arts and crafts, and hot latkes are on the bill at this party. Bring an unwrapped toy or book to donate to a family in need.

'Chanukah Celebration' Oakland City Center, above 12th St BART station, Oakl; www.oaklandcitycenter.com. Wed/10, noon-1pm. Free. Klezmania! performs contemporary Klezmer music.

nutcrackers and cracked nuts

'Nutcracker' War Memorial Opera House, 301 Van Ness; 865-2000, www.sfballet.org. Fri-Sat and Wed/10-Thurs/11, Dec 17-18, and 22-23, 7pm (also Sat and Dec 19, 22-23, and 26, 2pm); Sun and Dec 24, noon and 5pm. Through Dec 28. $12-96. San Francisco Ballet performs its long-standing version of the classic tale.

Bay Area

'The Hard Nut' Zellerbach Hall, UC Berkeley, Bancroft at Telegraph, Berk; (510) 642-9988, www.calperfs.berkeley.edu. Fri-Sat and Dec 18, 8pm (also Sat, 2pm); Sun, 3pm. Through Dec 21. $32-56. See Critic's Choice in Stage listings.

'Nutcracker' Julia Morgan Center for the Arts, 2640 College, Berk; (925) 798-1300 or (510) 843-4689. Fri/12, 7pm; Sat/13-Sun/14, 2pm (also Sat/13, 7pm). $18. Berkeley Ballet Theatre performs, with guest dancers from other local companies.

'Nutcracker' Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts, 500 Castro, Mtn View; (650) 903-6000, www.westernballet.org. Fri/12-Sat/13, 8pm (also Sat/13, 2pm); Sun/14, 2pm and 6pm. $18.50-22.50. Western Ballet performs the holiday favorite, with choreography by Alessandra di Pierro and Mark Foehringer.

'Nutcracker' San Jose Center for the Performing Arts, 255 Almaden, San Jose; (408) 288-2800, www.balletsanjose.org. Dec 12-28, call or check Web site for show times. $22-68. Ballet San Jose Silicon Valley performs Dennis Nahat's version of the classic.

'Nutcracker' San Mateo Performing Arts Center, 600 N. Delaware, San Mateo; (650) 340-9448. Sat-Sun, 2pm. Through Dec 21. $8-45. Carlos Carvajal's version of the tale is performed by Peninsula Ballet Theatre.

theater, comedy, and performance

'Beach Blanket Babylon' Club Fugazi, 678 Beach Blanket Babylon Blvd (Green St); 421-4222. This week: Wed/10-Thurs/11, 8pm (also Wed/10, 5pm); Fri/11-Sat/12, 7 and 10pm; Sun/14, 1 and 4pm. $25-70. Evening shows, 21 and up only. Ongoing. Steve Silver's 30-years-running musical revue unfurls its annual holiday version, complete with tap-dancing Christmas trees.

'Black Nativity' Lorraine Hansberry Theatre, 620 Sutter; 474-8800, www.ticketweb.com. Thurs-Sat, 8pm; Sun, 4pm. Through Dec 21. $25-32. The Lorraine Hansberry Theatre performs its annual production of Langston Hughes's lively gospel musical.

'The Christmas Ballet 2003' Yerba Buena Center for the Arts Theater, 700 Howard; 978-ARTS, www.smuinballet.org. Opens Wed/10, 8pm. Runs Tues-Sat, 8pm (also Sat, 2pm); Sun, 2 and 7pm. $21.50-60 (Wed/10 and Sun/14 at 7pm, Dec 17 and Dec 21 at 7pm, pay what you can). Through Dec 28. Smuin Ballet performs Michael Smuin's latest version of his holiday show, featuring one act set to classical music and one set to eclectic pop, jazz, country, and other unexpected tunes.

'A Christmas Carol' Geary Theater, 415 Geary; 749-2228, www.act-sf.org. Sat/13-Sun/14, Dec 16-17, 20-21, 23, and 26, 2pm; Wed/10-Sat/13, Dec 17-23, and 26, 7:30pm; Dec 24, noon and 4:30pm. Through Dec 26. $11-68. Steven Anthony Jones stars as Scrooge in American Conservatory Theater's version of the Dickens classic.

'The Devil-Ettes Present Mistletoe Make-Out: A Holiday Extravaganza' Make-Out Room, 3225 22nd St; 647-2888, www.devilettes.com. Thurs/11, 9pm. $8. Dance team the Devil-Ettes headline this holiday show, also featuring Sleigher and Smile God Loves You.

'Fauxgirls! Holiday Show' Marlena's, 488 Hayes; 864-6672. Sat/13, 10pm. Free. Victoria Secret and Alexandria host a drag cabaret.

'Hansel and Gretel' Florence Gould Theatre, Palace of the Legion of Honor, 34th Ave at Clement; 392-4400, www.goldengateopera.org. Sat/13, 2pm. $15-25. Golden Gate Opera performs its annual kid-friendly version of the fairy tale, with a score by Engelbert Humperdinck.

'Holidaze Skating Show: Season's Greetings 2003!' Yerba Buena Ice Skating Center, 750 Folsom; 777-3727, www.skatebowl.com. Fri/12-Sat/13, 6pm. $8-10. The San Francisco Ice Dance Company and more than 80 skaters from the Yerba Buena Ice Skating Center perform a holiday show.

'Foiled Again: A Wrapping Paper Caper IV' New Conservatory Theatre Center, 25 Van Ness; 861-8972, www.nctcsf.org. Mon-Thurs, 10am and 11:30am; Sun and Dec 20, 22-23, 27, 29-30, and Jan 3, 2pm. $10-12. Lunatique Fantastique presents an all-new episode in its annual kid-friendly, "holiday who-dunnit" puppet performance.

'It's a Wonderful Dyke' Phoenix Theatre, 414 Mason; 240-9202. Thurs-Sun, 8pm. Through Dec 21. $15-25. Hardcore Thrush presents a contemporary update of the classic holiday tale.

'Jesus Christ Superstar' StudioZ.tv, 314 11th St; 252-7666, buzzpresents@yahoo.com. Sun/14, 5pm (dinner first, then show starts at 6pm, $40) and 9:45pm ($10). Advance RSVP required for early show. Skycastle and Buzz Presents perform the rock musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice.

'Kinsey Sicks: Oy Vey in a Manger' New Conservatory Theatre Center, 25 Van Ness; 861-8972, www.nctcsf.org. Wed-Fri and Dec 30, 8pm (no shows Dec 24-26 and Jan 1); Sat, 7:30pm and 10pm. Through Jan 3. $25-34. The New Conservatory Theatre Center hosts "America's Favorite Dragapella Beauty Shop Quartet" in its world-premiere holiday show.

'Merry Muses on Ice' Edinburgh Castle Pub, 950 Geary; 279-8791. Fri/12-Sat/13, 7pm. $10. North Beach artists Dom Casual and Bella Hagen perform their "magical holiday extravaganza."

'La Pastorela Endiablada' El Teatro de la Esperanza, 2940 16th St, second fl; 255-2320. Fri-Sat, 8pm. Through Dec 20. $7-12. El Teatro de la Esperanza presents a modern adaptation of the traditional Christmas play.

'Las Posadas' Community Music Center, 544 Capp; 647-6015, www.sfmusic.org. Sat/13, 7:30pm. Free. This performance celebrates Mary and Joseph's journey to Bethlehem in search of shelter.

'Santaland Diaries' Shelton Theater, 533 Sutter; 846-3424. Wed-Sat, 8pm; Sun, 7pm. Through Dec 21. $20. SteinBeck Presents David Sedaris's tale of life as a Macy's elf, starring John Michael Beck.

'Sister Mary Ignatius Explains It All for You' Actors Theater, 533 Sutter; 345-7575. Thurs-Sat, 8pm (no show Dec 25); Sun, 5pm. Through Dec 28. $12-15 (Thurs, pay what you can). Plan "B" Productions presents Christopher Durang's racy comedy, followed by Holidaze: An Improv Comedy.

'Vaudeville S.F. Holiday Revue' Broadway Studios, 435 Broadway; www.sfvaudeville.com. Sat/13, 6pm (cocktails and dinner); 9pm (show). $39-79. An array of performers takes the stage at this colorful cabaret show, including the Devil-Ettes, Hot Pink Feathers, Project: Pimento, the Starlings, and others.

'You Better Watch Out!' San Francisco LGBT Center, 1800 Market; 861-5079. Sat/13, 8pm. $15-20. P.A. Cooley hosts this holiday variety show, with performances by the San Francisco Gay Men's Chorus, musical duo Oblong, the Don Seaver Trio with Libby O'Connell, cabaret singer Veronica Klaus, and others. Proceeds benefit Theatre Rhinoceros.

Bay Area

'Amahl and the Night Visitors' Dean Lesher Regional Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic, Walnut Creek; (925) 943-7469. Thurs/11, 11am and noon; Fri/12-Sun/14, 7:30pm (also Sat/13-Sun/14, 2:30pm). $10-22. Solo Opera performs the one-hour, kid-friendly Christmas opera by Gian Carlo Menotti.

'Black Nativity' Allen Temple Baptist Church, Family Life Center, 8501 International, Oakl; (510) 544-8924. Sat, 2:30pm and 8pm; Sun, 6pm. Through Dec 21. $5-15. Allen Temple Baptist Church's minister of music, Betty Gadling, directs Langston Hughes's musical holiday celebration for the 22nd straight year.

'A Christmas Carol: A Musical Extravaganza' John and Jean Knox Center for the Performing Arts, El Portal at Castro, San Pablo; (510) 235-7800, ext 4274. Fri-Sat, 8pm; Sun, 2pm. Through Dec 21. $5-10. Dickens's classic is adapted to include 60 actors, singers, and dancers.

'The Christmas Revels' Scottish Rite Theater, 1547 Lakeside, Oakl; (415) 621-1216, www.calrevels.org. Fri, 8pm; Sat-Sun, 1pm and 5pm. Through Dec 21. $17-35. Local theater luminary Geoff Hoyle stars as Shakespearean actor Will Kemp in this musical celebration of the winter solstice.

'Elves and the Shoemaker' Carriage House Theatre, Villa Montalvo, 15400 Montalvo, Redwood City; (408) 961-5858, www.villamontalvo.org. Sat/13, 11am, 1pm, and 3pm. $8-16. Two energetic elves lend their skills to a Black Forest shoemaker in this holiday comedy.

'The Gift of Winter' CTA Crossroads Theatre, 1277 Boulevard Way, Walnut Creek; (925) 944-0551, www.ctarts.org. Fri/12-Sat/13, 8pm (also Sat/13, 2pm). $10. California Theatre Arts presents an original holiday musical about the origins of snow, performed by actors ages 9 to 16.

'It's a Wonderful Life' Del Valle Theatre, 1963 Tice Valley, Walnut Creek (925) 943-SHOW, www.ccchristiantheatre.org. Thurs/11-Fri/12, 7:30pm. $10-19. The Frank Capra film comes to the stage courtesy of Contra Costa Christian Theatre.

'Navidad en Mexico' Chabot College Performing Arts Center, 25555 Hesperian, Hayward; (510) 562-6046, (510) 783-3456, www.ticketweb.com. Fri/12-Sat/13, 8pm; Sun/14, 2pm. $15-25. Ballet Folklorico Mexicano de Carlos Moreno performs its annual holiday show, featuring the premiere of Los Matachines de Durango.

'Las Posadas' Dance Palace, Fifth St at B St, Point Reyes Station; (415) 663-1075, www.dancepalace.org. Sat/13, 2pm. Free. Mother Lode Musical Theatre presents the traditional Mexican Christmas pageant that tells the story of Mary and Joseph's search for lodging through song and dance.

'Shining Star' Holy Names College, Regent's Theatre, 3500 Mountain, Oakl; (510) 597-1056, www.newstylemotherlode.com. Fri/12-Sat/13, 8pm (also Sat, 2pm). $25. Hip-hop dance group New Style Motherlode performs a fundraising concert "with a holiday twist," along with Diamond Dance Company and Media Circus.

'Twas the Night Before Christmas' Glenview Performing Arts Center, 1318 Glenfield, Oakl; (510) 531-0511. Fri-Sat, 8pm (also Sat, 2pm and 5pm); Sun, 2pm and 5pm. Through Dec 21. $17. The holiday tale comes to life with an indoor snowfall, a growing tree covered in 10,000 lights, and other special effects.

arts and crafts

'Bizarre Bazaar' Lola Gallery, 2517 Mission, second fl; 401-6800, www.lolabrown.com. Mon-Sat, noon-8pm (Christmas party Thurs/11, 9pm). Through Dec 21. Free. The Lola Gallery hosts an exhibition and sale featuring artistic creations at affordable prices.

'Christmas Sample Sale' Independent Design Center, 52 Mason; 305-6663, www.52mason.com. Sat/13, 2-8pm. Free. Clothing and accessory designers sell back stock and one-of-a-kind pieces at reasonable prices.

'Craft Showcase' Museum of Craft and Folk Art, Fort Mason Center, Bldg A, Marina at Laguna; 775-0991. Tues-Fri, 11am-6pm; Sat, 10am-6pm; Sun-Mon, 11am-5pm. Through Dec 28. Free. More than 300 new and unique artworks by California craftmakers – including those who work in glass, clay, enamel, metal, wood, and fiber – are on display and can be taken home at time of purchase.

'Feria Urbana' Canvas Gallery, 1200 Ninth St; www.feriaurbanasf.com. Thurs, 6-8pm. Through Dec 18. Free. Local artists and designers sell clothing, jewelry, home accessories, and other items at accessible prices.

'The Gift Giving Show' Canvas Gallery, 1200 Ninth St; www.thecanvasgallery.com. Sun-Thurs, 8am-midnight; Fri-Sat, 8am-2am. Through Dec 17. Free. Paintings, collages, photographs, and other works of art priced at $200 are on display at this exhibit of gift-ready items.

'Greens and Gifts' Golden Gate Park, Strybing Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, near Ninth Ave at Lincoln; 661-1316. Sat/13, 10am-2pm. Free. Purchase greens for holiday wreaths and rare plants for gift-giving, or participate in a wreath-making workshop ($15-25 materials fee).

'Holiday Art Mart' Whitney Young Cultural Center Mansion, 1101 Masonic; 346-8323. Sat/13-Sun/14, 1-6pm. Free. The gallery, housed in a 1906 mansion, hosts an arts and crafts fair; 20 percent of each purchase goes toward children's art programs.

'Holiday Party and Winter Arts Opening Reception' Faith/Simply Magical Living, 1925 Hayes; 750-0308, www.shopfaith.com. Fri/12, 6-9pm. The magic boutique and art gallery hosts a holiday open house highlighting its latest exhibit.

'Independent Artists and Designers Sample Sale' Varnish Gallery, 77 Natoma; www.varnishfineart.com, www.buomgear.com. Fri/12, 6-10pm. Free. Holiday shoppers are invited to check out jewelry, clothing, art, and other items.

'KPFA Community Craft Fair' Concourse Exhibition Center, 635 Eighth St; (510) 848-6767, ext 609. Sat/13-Sun/14, 10am-6pm. $5-8 (two-day pass $13). KPFA-FM benefits from this craft fair, featuring works by 220 artists, plus international natural foods, and world music, dance, and spoken word performances.

'Peace on Earth Ornament and Shrine Show' Chatterbox Gift Gallery, 1185 Church; 647-0900. Tues-Thurs, 11:30am-6:30pm; Sat, 11am-6pm; Sun, noon-5pm (reception Sat/12, 4-7pm). Through Jan 6. Free. More than 40 emerging artists display their works at this seasonally themed show.

'Small Craft Advisory' Live Art Gallery, 151 Potrero; 254-3141. Opening reception Sat/13, 5-11pm; "shop-o-rama" Sun/14, noon-5pm. Free. Small, well-priced artwork in a variety of media highlight this exhibit and sale.

'Stockings and Stilettos' Mezzanine, 444 Jessie; www.appelandfrank.com. Wed/10, 5:30-10pm. $10. Forty local designers sell jewelry, accessories, and more; the event also features makeovers, music, and a perfume bar.

'Winter Craft Faire' CELLspace, 2050 Bryant; 648-7562. Sat/13, 10am-5pm. Free. CELLpace hosts its annual sale highlighting local artisans and craftspeople.

Bay Area

'AK Press Huge Holiday Sale' AK Press, 674-A 23rd St, Oakl; (510) 208-1700. Thurs/11, 4-10pm. Free. Pick up books, CDs, videos, DVDs, and other gifts for as low as $1 at this warehouse sale.

'Art Works Downtown Holiday Open Studios' Art Works Downtown, 1323-1337 Fourth St, San Rafael; (415) 451-8118. Sat/13-Sun/14, 11am-5pm. Free. Forty artists open their studios in downtown San Rafael.

'Berkeley Artisans Holiday Open Studios' Various locations, Berk; (510) 845-2612, www.berkeleyartisans.com. Sat-Sun, 11am-6pm. Through Dec 21. Free. More than 100 Berkeley artists and craftspeople open their studios as part of this annual event. See Web site for map.

'Berkeley Farmers Market Holiday Crafts Fair' MLK Jr. Civic Center park, Center at MLK Jr. Way, Berk; (510) 548-3333, www.ecologycenter.org. Sat, 10am-4pm. Through Dec 20. Free. Local craftspeople set up shop next to the Berkeley Farmers' Market.

'Family Gift Making Extravaganza' Museum of Children's Art, 528 Ninth St, Oakl; (510) 465-8770. Dec 20, 1-4pm. $7 a child (accompanying adults free). Kids can create their own gifts, including wreaths, candlesticks, and jewelry, at this workshop.

'Mary Law Holiday Pottery Sale' 1421 Fifth St, Berk; (510) 524-7546. Sat-Sun, 10am-6pm. Through Dec 21. Free. The local artist displays and sells her works.

'Peace on Earth' ACCI Gallery, 1652 Shattuck, Berk; (510) 843-2527, www.accigallery.com. Mon-Thurs, 11am-6pm; Fri, 11am-7pm; Sat, 10am-6pm; Sun, noon-5pm. Through Dec 24. Free. Jewelry, glass, ornaments, and other works of art make up this exhibit and sale of handcrafted gifts.

'Schoonmaker Open Studios' 10 Liberty Ship Way, Sausalito; (415) 331-6466, www.kimber.net.schoonmakerartists.htm. Fri/12, 5:30-8pm. Bring canned food or cash donation for entry; proceeds benefit Food Pantry. More than 40 artists show and sell original works.

'Small Press Distribution Holiday Open House and Book Sale' Small Press Distribution, 1341 Seventh St, Berk; (510) 524-1668, www.spdbooks.org. Sat/13, noon-4pm (readings at 2pm). Free. Get 10 to 50 percent off all books, plus listen to readings by San Francisco poet laureate devorah major, poet Cedar Sigo, and others.

'Small Wonders Show' Graton Gallery, 9048 Graton, Graton; (707) 829-8912. Mon and Wed-Thurs, 11am-7:30pm; Fri-Sat, 11am-9pm; Sun, 10am-6pm. Through Jan 5. Free. Gallery artists present smaller-scale works, including crafts and jewelry, suitable for holiday gifting.