Wanderlust World Wanderlust World Head to the Hyatt Regency at Embarcadero Center and take in a tremendous tree-lighting ceremony in the world's largest hotel lobby. In addition to a towering tree sparkling with lights, you'll find carolers, punch and cookies and much more; kids in particular will love the mini-snow village circling the lobby's iconic Eclipse sphere fountain. The event typically takes place the Friday before the Thanksgiving holidays.
The annual Great Dickens Christmas Fair is a veritable trip back in time, with costumed revelers in old-time garb, tasty fare like mulled cider and baked goods, and a wealth of fun activities. The festivities take place at the Cow Palace, just a short drive south of the city, from just after Thanksgiving to just before Christmas. This isn't a bad place to do some holiday shopping either, with a nice selection of talented craftspeople on hand as well.
San Francisco's gorgeous Grace Cathedral is host to some fantastic holiday musical events, from men's choirs to brass concerts to family sing-a-longs. The intriguing church also puts on some unexpected doings, from movie viewings with discussions to author readings and book signings.
OK, it might be more like a tradition than an actual event, but the city's afternoon teas at a handful of elite hotels sure are popular. The St. Francis and Mark Hopkins are two good options, but the very best "tea time" can probably be had at the Ritz Carlton-where its elegant lobby lounge and incredible scones and pastries await.
If you love a parade, check out the annual one that rolls through downtown Oakland on the first Saturday of December. The Comcast Oakland Holiday Parade is aimed at kids-with giant helium balloons and colorful characters like Curious George and Garfield-but talented marching bands and plenty of live music make it fun for the grownups too.
Oakland is also home to Holidays at Dunsmuir, taking place the three weekends leading up to Christmas. Imagine an elegant 16,000-square-foot mansion decorated spectacularly for the holidays, with costumed docents, tasteful antiques for sale, live holiday tunes and even trolley rides. There is a charge for tickets, but proceeds benefit the upkeep of the amazing Dunsmuir House & Gardens estate.
Whether you're seeking the coolest gifts you'll ever give or just a good time, the Telegraph Avenue Holiday Street Fair is not to be missed for Berkeley-goers. Funky live tunes and tasty, cheap eats are part of the good times, but the real attraction is the hundreds of talented and creative artists and craftspeople selling their unique offerings.
For an event that's sure to float your boat, head to the North Bay for the Lighted Yacht Parade in Sausalito, with scores of vessels in a water-bound celebration that includes a breathtaking light show put to music. This evening event is typically slated for the second Saturday in December.
In the South Bay, San Jose's Christmas in the Park is a month-long shindig with a likeable blend of doings to entice holiday revelers. Held in the city's two-acre downtown park (aka Plaza de Cesar Chavez), the festive fun includes countless musical and animated exhibits, a 60-foot Community Giving Tree, Victorian Village, and even a cozy forest festooned with ornaments and decorations.