Nutcrackers/Dance

Ballet America Nutcracker

Clara follows her Nutcracker prince in this holiday classic ballet. Dec 8, 1 and 7pm. $16–$37. Fox Theatre, 2215 Broadway, Redwood City. 650.369.4119.

Ballet San Jose Nutcracker

Ballet San Jose presents an extravagant version of the beloved holiday ballet. Regular shows: Wed–Fri, 7:30pm (no show Wed, Dec 12) and Sat–Sun, 1:30 and 7:30pm (1:30pm and 6pm Dec 23). Thru Dec 23. $30–$82 ($17–$42 for Dec 21 children's matinee). San Jose Center for the Performing Arts, 255 Almaden Blvd, San Jose. 408.288.2800.

The Christmas Ballet

Smuin Ballet presents its ever-changing holiday ballet. Nov 28–30, 8pm, Dec 1, 2 and 8pm and Dec 2, 2pm. $40–$55. Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts, 500 Castro St, Mountain View. 650.903.6000.

Great Russian Nutcracker

Presented by Moscow Ballet. Dec 23, 3 and 7pm. $36-–$66. Flint Center, 21250 Stevens Creek Blvd, Cupertino. 408.998.TIXS.

The Hard Nut

The Mark Morris Dance Group presents a delightful twist on The Nutcracker, featuring members of the Berkeley Symphony Orchestra. Opens Dec 14. Thu–Fri, 7:30pm, Sat, 2 and 8pm and Sun, 3pm. Thru Dec 23. $32–$60. Zellerbach Hall, UC-Berkeley, Berkeley. 510.642.9988.

Nuestra Navidad: A Family Christmas

A family Christmas dance show by Aztlán Academy featuring music and dance of Mexico. Dec 14–16; call for times. $10. Montgomery Theater, 271 S. Market St, San Jose. 408.984.0342.

Nutcracker Ballet

The Fremont Symphony Orchestra and Yoko's Dance and Performing Arts Academy perform. Nov 30, 7pm, Dec 1, 2 and 7pm and Dec 2, 7pm. $20–$45. Smith Center, Ohlone College, 43600 Mission Blvd, Fremont. 510.794.1659.

Nutcracker Teas

Meet characters from the show and sip teas following designated matinee performances of The Nutcracker. Dec 21, 3pm and Dec 22, 4pm. $30–$50. Club Regent Room of the Fairmont Hotel, 170 S. Market St, San Jose. 408.288.2820, ext. 204.

Peninsula Ballet Theatre Nutcracker

This holiday ballet tradition is performed with backing music from the Peninsula Ballet Theatre Orchestra. Dec 15–16, 2pm and Dec 22–23, 2pm. $5–$55. San Mateo Performing Arts Center, 600 N. Delaware St, San Mateo. 800.595.4849.

Peninsula Youth Ballet Nutcracker

The dance troupe celebrates its 14th annual performance of the holiday ballet. Dec 1–2, 2pm. $15–$35. San Mateo Performing Arts Center, 600 N. Delaware, San Mateo. 800.595.4849.

San Francisco Ballet Nutcracker

A traditional performance of the holiday classic.Opens Dec 13, 7pm, Dec 14–30, 2 and 7pm (Sun, Dec 30, 2pm only; no shows Dec 17 or 25). $18–$198. War Memorial Opera House, 301 Van Ness, San Francisco. 415.865.2000.

San Jose Dance Theatre Nutcracker

Clara mends her broken Nutcracker prince and he treats her to a journey through lands of sweets. Nov 30, 7:30pm, Dec 1, 2 and 7:30pm and Dec 2, 1pm. $18–$45. San Jose Center for the Performing Arts, 255 Almaden Blvd, San Jose. 408.286.9905.

Santa Clara Ballet Nutcracker

A full-length traditional version of this seasonal ballet. Guest artists will join local dancers. Dec 8, 2 and 7pm and Dec 9, 1 and 5pm. $18–$28.50. Santa Clara Convention Center Theater, 5001 Great America Pkwy, Santa Clara. 408.881.0879.

Santa Cruz Ballet Theatre Nutcracker

Five performances of the holiday treat. Dec 14, 8pm, Dec 15–16, 1 and 4:30pm. $12–$30. Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium, 307 Church St, Santa Cruz. 831.420.5260.

Western Ballet Nutcracker

Performed by the Mountain View Ballet Company and School. Dec 7, 7:30pm and Dec 8–9, 1 and 7:30pm. $25. Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts, 500 Castro St, Mountain View. 650.903.6000.

Yaelisa & Caminos Flamencos

Presenting Jardin de mis Suenos, a flamenco Christmas performance. Dec 12, 8pm. $15–$35. Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts, 500 Castro St, Mountain View. 650.903.6000.

Theater

Amahl and the Night Visitors

NDNU Concert Choir presents Menotti's Christmas opera, conducted by Henry Mollicone. Dec 7–8, 7:30pm. $1–$20. Cunningham Memorial Chapel, Notre Dame de Namur University, 1500 Ralston Ave, Belmont. 650.508.3500.

A Christmas Carol

Northside Theatre Company performs Dickens' honored tale. Opens Dec 5. Wed–Sat, 8pm and Sun, 3pm. Plus Dec 15, 5pm and Dec 16, 7pm. Thru Dec 23. $12–$18. Northside Theatre Company, 848 E. William St, San Jose. 408.288.7820.

The Elves and the Shoemaker

Elves help a poor shoemaker in this performance by California Theatre Center. Nov 28–30, 9:30 and 11am, Dec 1, 11am and 7:30pm and Dec 7, 7:30pm. $11–$12. Sunnyvale Community Center Theatre, 550 E. Remington Dr, Sunnyvale. 408.245.2978.

The Gift

Notre Dame de Namur University's theater department performs a musical version of A Christmas Carol. Opening-night gala Dec 7, 7pm; $40. Thu–Fri, 7:30pm, Sat, 2 and 7:30pm and Sun, 2pm. Thru Dec 16. Free. Notre Dame de Namur University Theatre, 1540 Ralston Ave, Belmont. 650.508.3456.

Greetings

Andy brings his Jewish girlfriend home to his Catholic parents on Christmas Eve in this presentation by Center Stage Productions. Nov 29–Dec 1, 8pm and Dec 2, 2:30pm. $12–$20. Center for Spiritual Living, 1195 Clark St, San Jose. 408.294.1828.

Holiday Treats

Nick Barone presents a comedy variety performance where friendly monsters put on a Christmas show. Dec 12, 6:30pm. Cambrian Branch Library, 1780 Hillsdale Ave, San Jose. 408.808.3080.

Jacob Marley's Christmas Carol

A funny, irreverent take on a the Dickens story by City Lights Theater Company. Thu–Sat, 8pm and Sun, 2 and 7pm. Thru Dec 23. $15–$30. City Lights Theater Company, 529 S. Second St, San Jose. 408.295.4200.

Jesus Christ Superstar

Presented by American Musical Theatre of San Jose. Dec 27–28, 8pm, Dec 29, 2 and 8pm and Dec 30, 1 and 6:30pm. $14.75–$74. San Jose Center for the Performing Arts, 255 Almaden Blvd, San Jose. 888.455.SHOW.

Keep the Yuletide Gay

Theatre Q tells the story of what happens when a well-intentioned gift goes horribly wrong and spins a gathering of friends into Christmas calamity. Thu and Sat, 8pm and Sun, 2pm. Thru Dec 30. $10–$25. Dragon Theatre, 535 Alma St, Palo Alto. 415.433.1235.

The Last Night of Ballyhoo

A Christmas play tied to December 1939 and the premiere of Gone With the Wind. Presented by Bus Barn Theatre. Opens Nov 29. Wed, 7:30pm (Dec 12 and 19 only), Thu–Sat, 8pm and Sun, 3pm. Thru Dec 22. $22–$30. Bus Barn Theatre, 97 Hillview Road, Los Altos. 650.941.0551.

The Night Before Chris Mouse

Presented by the P&T Puppet Theater, based on the poem and Aesop's fable of the belling of the cat. Dec 15, 4:30pm. Evergreen Branch Library, 2635 Aborn Road, San Jose. 408.808.3060.

The North Pole Review

Presented by the Fratello Marionettes. Dec 15, 3pm. Rose Garden Branch Library, 1580 Naglee Ave, San Jose. 408.808.3070.

An Old-Fashioned Holiday

Comedy introduces children to the holidays of another era. Presented by California Theatre Center. Dec 8, 11am, Dec 14, 7:30pm and Dec 15, 11am. $11–$12. Sunnyvale Community Center Theatre, 550 E. Remington Dr, Sunnyvale. 408.245.2978.

Scrooge: The Musical

A musical take on the classic, by South Valley Civic Theatre. Fri–Sat, 8pm and Sun, 2pm. Thru Dec 15. $14–$18. Morgan Hill Community Playhouse, 17090 Monterey Road, Morgan Hill. 408.842.SHOW.

Stop Time!

For the holidays, Tabard Theatre Company presents this dance-oriented revue. Wed–Fri, 8pm (no shows Nov 28–29 or Dec 5), Sat, 3 and 8pm and Sun, 2pm. Thru Dec 15. $10–$25. Opera San José Rehearsal Hall, 2149 Paragon Dr, San Jose. 408.679.2330.

This Wonderful Life

Don Hiatt stars in a one-man stage version of the Capra film, presented by SJ Rep. Previews Nov 28–29. Tue, 7:30pm, Wed, 11am (Dec. 19 only) and 8pm, Thu–Fri, 8pm, Sat, 3 and 8pm and Sun, 2pm. Thru Dec 23. $15–$59. San Jose Repertory Theatre, 101 Paseo de San Antonio, San Jose. 408.367.7255.

A Tuna Christmas

The Greater Tuna gang do the holidays. Presented by San Jose Stage Company. Wed–Thu, 7:30pm, Fri–Sat, 8pm and Sun, 2pm. Thru Dec 23. $20–$45. The Stage, 490 S. First St, San Jose. 408.283.7142.

'Twas the Night Before Christmas

Dancers Repertory Theatre and Menlo Park Academy of Dance bring Clement Moore's holiday poem to life. Dec 9, 15–16, 1:30 and 4pm. $12–$18. Woodside Performing Arts Center, 199 Churchill Ave, Woodside. 650.323.5292.

Twelfth Night

Holiday show adds music to Shakespeare. Tue–Wed, 7:30pm, Thu–Fri, 8pm, Sat, 2 and 8pm and Sun 2 and 7pm. Thru Dec 23. $20–$56. Lucie Stern Theatre, 1305 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto. 650.903.6000.

Concerts

Acoustic Christmas

Bev Barnett and Greg Newlon perform Christmas works. Dec 8, 7pm. $10. Mission Coffee Roasting Co., 151 Washington Blvd, Fremont. 510.623.6920.

A Bach-Family Christmas

Schola Cantorum presents Magnificat in D and other pieces by members of the Bach family. Dec 1, 8pm. Los Altos United Methodist Church, 655 Magdalena Ave, Los Altos. Also Dec 2, 4pm. Los Gatos United Methodist Church, 111 Church St, Los Gatos. $20–$24. 650.254.1700.

Benefit Concert

The church's choir and friends perform Vivaldi's Gloria, Mollicone's Flowers of the Soul and more, plus a holiday sing-along, benefitting the Opportunity Center, serving the midpeninsula's homeless. Sat, Dec 1, 7pm and Sun, Dec 2, 3pm. $12/$15; 12 and under free. Unitarian Universalist Church of Palo Alto, 505 E. Charleston Road, Palo Alto. 650.858.8062.

Bethel's Choir at Christmas in the Park

Bethel's choir, brass and woodwind ensembles perform. Dec 1, 6:30–8pm, Cesar Chavez Park, 170 S. Market St, San Jose. 408.246.6790.

Brian Culbertson's A Soulful Christmas

Seasonal hits. Dec 22, 8pm. $30–$60. Fox Theatre, 2215 Broadway, Redwood City. 650.369.4119.

California Bach Society

Presenting a Christmas work by Charpentier. Dec 1, 8pm. $10–$25. All Saints Episcopal Church, 555 Waverly St, Palo Alto. 415.262.0272.

California Youth Symphony

Classical and seasonal favorites. Dec 9, 2:30pm. Free. Smithwick Theatre, Foothill College, 12345 El Monte Road, Los Altos Hills. 650.325.6666.

Cantabile Youth Singers

Featuring works by Brunner, Handel and Mozart. Dec 1, 7:30pm. $6–$50. St. Joseph's Cathedral Basilica, 80 S. Market St, San Jose. 650.424.1410.

Cave of the Spirits

Two nights of sacred music to end an ancient holiday. Jan 5–6, 2pm. $40. Byington Winery, 21850 Bear Creek Road, Los Gatos. 707.224.4222

A Celebration of Christmas

Interfaith Christmas concert. Dec 15, 7–9pm. Free. Emmanuel Baptist Church, 467 N. White Road, San Jose. 408.266.6444.

A Celtic Christmas

Acoustic rock group Gypsy Soul performs. Dec 16, 7pm. $15–$17. Little Fox Theatre, 2209 Broadway, Redwood City. 650.369.4119.

Chanticleer Christmas

Men's chorus blends carols, medieval and Renaissance sacred works. Dec 11–12, 8pm. Memorial Church, Stanford, Palo Alto. 650.725.ARTS. Also Dec 20, 6 and 8pm. Mission Santa Clara, 500 El Camino Real, Santa Clara. Plus Dec 22, 3pm. Mission San Jose, 43148 Mission Blvd, Fremont. $22–$44. 415.392.4400.

Chateau Julien Holiday Spectacular

Holiday reception with a capella choir. Dec 2, 2:30pm. $20–$30. Chateau Julien Wine Estate, 8940 Carmel Valley Road, Carmel. 831.624.6138.

Children's Christmas Concert

Featuring children's choirs, a bell choir and the Chancel Choir. Dec 2, 6pm. Free. Menlo Park Presbyterian Church, 950 Santa Cruz Ave, Menlo Park. 650.321.7136.

Christ Lives Oratorio

With a 60-voice choir and instrumentalists. Dec 8, 7:30pm. $10. Ananda Church, 2171 El Camino Real, Palo Alto. 650.323.3363.

Christmas Concert

Musical celebration featuring of new and traditional Christmas songs performed by the children's and adult choirs. Dec 1, 7–8:30pm. Los Altos Presbyterian Church, 858 University Ave, Los Altos.

The Christmas Jug Band

Nontraditional holiday music. Dec 15, 8pm. $20–$25. Sunnyvale Community Center Theatre, 550 E. Remington Dr, Sunnyvale. 408.730.7725.

Christmas Spectacular

With the voices of the Bethel Orchestra, Drama Ensemble and more. Dec 7, 8pm, Dec 8, 1, 4 and 8pm and Dec 9, 3 and 7pm. Bethel Church Life Center, 1201 S. Winchester Blvd, San Jose. 408.246.6790.

Cupertino Symphonic Band

Performing its winter concert. Dec 16, 3pm. Quinlan Community Center, 10185 N. Stelling Road, Cupertino. 408.262.0471.

Dickens Carolers

Peninsula Youth Theatre's tour group Pizzazz! performs. Dec 1, 2pm. Children's Discovery Museum, 180 Woz Way, San Jose. 408.298.5437.

El Camino Youth Symphony

Featuring the ECYS Percussion Ensemble and young artists James Yoon, clarinet, Jeffrey Kwong, cello, Eric Jiang, violin, and Jennifer Choi, cello. Dec 16, 2:30pm. $5–$10. Spangenberg Theatre, Gunn High School, 780 Arastradero Road, Palo Alto. 650.213.7111.

Feast of Christmas

The Cabrillo College Chorus joins with the Cabrillo Youth Chorus and a live orchestra for traditional tunes and sing-along carols, Nov 29–Dec 1, 8pm and Dec 2, 4pm. $18–$25. Holy Cross Church, 126 High St, Santa Cruz. 831.479.6331.

Festival of Lessons and Carols

The Stanford Memorial Church Choir and the Stanford University Singers combine forces to present holiday music and readings. Dec 7–8, 8pm. Free. Stanford Memorial Church, 450 Serra Mall, Bldg 500, Stanford University. 650.725.2787.

Festival of Lights

The SCU Choir performs holiday classics, Chanukah music, African caroling and more. Dec 1, 8pm. $5–$12. Mission Church, Santa Clara University, 500 El Camino Real, Santa Clara. 408.554.4015.

The Forgotten Carols

Narrated and sung by Glenn Yarbrough. Dec 9, 4pm. $35. Holy Cross Church, 126 High St, Santa Cruz. 831.423.4182. Also with San Jose Symphonic Choir on Dec 6 and 8, 8pm. $35. St Joseph's Cathedral, 80 S. Market St, San Jose. 408.283.8100.

Glorious Sounds of Christmas

A performance by San Francisco Choral Artists. Dec 9, 4pm. $12–$28. St. Mark's Episcopal Church, 600 Colorado Ave, Palo Alto. 415.979.5779.

Gryphon Carolers Holiday Concert The carolers perform a range of musical styles from Irish to Brazilian. Dec 14, 8pm. $10–$25. Spangenberg Theater, Gunn High School, 780 Arastradero Road, Palo Alto. 650.906.3638.

Handel's Messiah

Performed by Mission City Opera. Dec 9, 7:30pm. $20. Santa Clara United Methodist Church, 1700 Lincoln, Santa Clara. 408.749.7607.

Harps for the Holidays Harpeggio presents holiday music. Dec 8, 4pm. $10–$15. Los Altos United Methodist Church, 655 Magdalena Ave, Los Altos. 408.366.8810.

A Holiday Celebration

Peninsula Symphony and the Stanford Symphonic Chorus perform seasonal works. Nov 30, 8pm and Dec 2, 1:30pm. $20. Stanford Memorial Church, Stanford University, Palo Alto. 650.941.5291.

A Holiday Music Program

Friends of Los Gatos Public Library present an evening of refreshments and the Kane Family Quintet. Dec 7, 7–9pm. Los Gatos Town Council Chambers, 110 E. Main St, Los Gatos. 408.399.5700.

Holiday Pipe Organ Concert

P.W. Bowen plays sacred and secular holiday favorites. Dec 2, 2:30pm. Grace Baptist Church, 484 E. San Fernando St, San Jose. 408.295.2035.

Horns for the Holidays

Horn quartet Quadre performs holiday favorites and music for four horns and band, featuring local students. Dec 11, 7pm. $7–$17. Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts, 500 Castro St, Mountain View. 650.903.6000.

How Can I Keep From Singing

The Fun Time singers perform their winter concert. Dec 14–15, 8pm. $8–$14. First Congregational Church, 1980 Hamilton Ave, San Jose. 408.313.4205.

Irish Christmas in America

The Celtic Society of the Monterey Bay presents seasonal Irish cultural traditions. Dec 4, 7:30pm. $18–$20. Kuumbwa, 320 Cedar St, Santa Cruz. 831.336.9810

A Joyful Noise

Cantabile Chorale welcomes special guest artists the Menlo Brass Quintet and T. Paul Rosas, organ. Dec 1, 8pm. United Methodist Church, 1675 Winchester Blvd, Campbell. Plus Dec 2, 7:30pm. St. Mark's Episcopal Church, 600 Colorado Ave, Palo Alto. $6–$25. 650.424.1410.

Live 105's Not So Silent Night

A rockin' holiday with Modest Mouse, Jimmy Eat World, Angels and Airwaves and others. Dec 7, 6:15pm. $39.50. Bill Graham Civic Auditorium, 747 Howard, San Francisco. 408.998.TIXS.

Mannheim Steamroller

The four-member band accompanied by a 10-piece orchestra plays music from its new CD as well as old favorites. Opens Dec 20. Wed–Fri, 8pm, Sat, 2 and 8pm and Sun, 2 and 7pm (2pm only Jan 6). Plus Mon, Dec 24, 2pm and Dec 31, 8pm. Thru Jan 6. $65–$100. Post Street Theatre, 450 Post St, San Francisco. 408.998.TIXS.

Menotti's Amahl and the Night Visitors

Presented by Mission City Opera. Plus a carol sing-along. Dec 21, 7:30pm, Dec 22, 2:30 and 7:30pm and Dec -23, 2:30pm. $10-–$25. Mission City Center for Performing Arts, 3250 Monroe St, Santa Clara. 408.749.7607.

Messiah Sing

The oldest Messiah Sing on the Peninsula. Dec 10, 7:30pm. $10–$16. Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts, 500 Castro St, Mountain View. 650.903.6000.

Morgan Hill Wind Symphony

A concert of holiday-themed pieces. Dec 2, 7:30pm. Free. Morgan Hill Community Playhouse, 17090 Monterey Rd, Morgan Hill. 408.842.6130.

Nova Vista Symphony

Holiday program includes selections from the Nutcracker Suite plus works by Rimsky-Korsakov and Saint-Saëns. Dec 8, 3pm. $13/$16. Smithwick Theatre, Foothill College, Los Altos Hills. 408.624.1492.

Peninsula Pops Orchestra

Music from holiday films White Christmas and 'Twas the Night Before Christmas, along with other holiday works. Dec 8, 7:30pm and Dec 10, 3pm. $5–$25. Spangenberg Theater, Gunn High School, 780 Arastradero Road, Palo Alto. 650.856.8432.

Peninsula Women's Chorus

Benjamin Britten's yuletide masterpiece is interspersed with works by Kodaly, Jasinski, Olsson and Casals. Dec 8, 8pm and Dec 9, 4pm. St. Patrick's Seminary, 320 Middlefield Road, Menlo Park. Also Dec 16, 3pm. Mission Santa Clara, 500 El Camino Real, Santa Clara. $15–$18. 650.327.3095.

Peninsula Youth Orchestra

A special holiday concert featuring current PYO members and returning PYO alumni. Dec 22, 7:30pm. Free. Skyline College Main Theatre, 3300 College Dr, San Bruno. 650.325.7967.

Peter and the Wolf

The San Francisco Youth Symphony presents the classic tale, featuring narrator Sara Ramirez of TV fame. Dec 15, 2pm. $20–$46. California Theatre, 345 S. First St, San Jose. 415.864.6000.

Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra

For "The Majesty of Christmas," the orchestra performs Heinrich Shütz's "Weihnachtshistorie" and other pieces. Dec 7, 8pm. $30–$72. First United Methodist Church of Palo Alto, 625 Hamilton Ave, Palo Alto. 415.252.1288.

Ragazzi Boys Chorus

Medieval chant, Renaissance, baroque and classical music. Dec 9, 5pm. St. Matthew's Episcopal Church, 1 S. El Camino Real, San Mateo. Also Dec 16, 5pm. First Congregational Church, 1985 Louis Road, Palo Alto. $10–$25. 650.342.8785.

Raggs' Holiday Jam

Holiday tunes sung by characters from the Raggs TV series. Nov 30–Dec 1, 7pm. $22–$47. San Jose Civic Auditorium, 135 W. San Carlos St, San Jose. www.sjtix.com.

Ring in the Holidays

The SFSU Handbell Choir performs familiar Christmas music. Dec 1,noon–4pm. Free. San Mateo History Museum, 2200 Broadway, Redwood City.

San Francisco Symphony

Holiday concert featuring Handel's masterpiece, Messiah. Dec 12, 7:30pm. Flint Center, 21250 Stevens Creek Blvd, Cupertino. Dec 13–14, 8pm. Davies Symphony Hall, 201 Van Ness Ave, San Francisco. $20–$82, 415.864.6000.

San Jose Symphonic Choir

An annual You-Sing-It Messiah, now in its 28th year. Dec 10, 7:30pm. $20. California Theatre, 345 S. First St, San Jose. 408.286.2600, ext. 23.

San Jose Youth Symphony

Annual holiday concert, featuring music from Rossini, Ponchielli, Borodin and Anderson. Dec 13, 7 and 8pm. $5–$15. St. Joseph's Cathedral Basilica, 80 S. Market St, San Jose. 408.885.9220.

Santa Clara Chorale

"Comfort and Joy." An afternoon of carols and Christmas favorites. Dec 7, 8pm and Dec 9, 4pm. $5–$25. Mission Santa Clara, 500 El Camino Real, Santa Clara. 408.369.1289.

Season of Hope

San Jose Youth Chamber Orchestra performs selections from Handel's Messiah. Dec 18, 7 and 8pm. St. Joseph's Cathedral Basilica, 80 S. Market St, San Jose. 408.295.4416.

Silicon Valley Ai-Yue Chorus

"Joyful Concert," featuring local individuals coming together to present an elaborate selection of vocal pieces. Dec 22, 7pm. $13–$18. Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts, 500 Castro St, Mountain View. 650.903.6000.

Sing- and Play-Along Messiah

Participate in the holiday favorite either as a vocalist or instrumentalist. Dec 14, 8pm. $5–$10. Stanford Memorial Church, 450 Serra Mall, Bldg 500, Stanford University. 650.723.2729.

The Sippy Cups

A rock & roll holiday for families. Dec 16, 1 and 4pm. $12–$18. Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts, 500 Castro St, Mountain View. 650.903.6000.

SJSU Women's Chorus Concert

Benjamin Britten's A Ceremony of Carols. Dec 9. 3pm. $15–$20. Spartan Memorial Chapel, San Jose State University, downtown San Jose. 408.924.4645

SJSU Concert Choir Concert

The concert features holiday music, seasonal readings and poetry. Nov 29, 7:30pm. $10–$15. Campbell United Methodist Church, 1675 Winchester Blvd, Campbell.

South Valley Symphony

The symphony joins forces with the Gavilan College Concert Choir for a program of choral and orchestral music to celebrate the season. Dec 15, 7:30pm and Dec 16, 4pm. $10–$20. Gilroy Presbyterian Church, 6000 Miller Ave, Gilroy. 408.847.1441.

STOCtet "Sing a Joyful Song!" Studio Theatre of California's STOCtet performs a choral concert of holiday favorites. Dec 9, 7:30pm. Free. First United Methodist Church of Campbell, 1675 S. Winchester Blvd, Campbell. 408.370.6639.

Symphony Silicon Valley Chorale

Performing "Carols in the California." Dec 9, 7pm. $26–$36. California Theatre, 345 S. First St, San Jose. 408.286.2600.

Viva la Musica

Holiday works, including Handel's Messiah. Sat, Dec 1,8pm and Sun, Dec 2, 3pm. $17–$25. St. Mark's, 325 Marine View Dr, Belmont. 650.281.9663.

Voices in Harmony

California's premiere 100-voice men's a capella chorus presents its 2007 holiday music concert. Dec 16, 3pm. $20–$35. California Theatre, 345 S. First St, San Jose. www.vihchorus.org.

Winchester Orchestra

Traditional sing-along and choruses from Henry Mollicone's operatic compositions. Dec 15, 7:30pm. West Valley College, 14000 Fruitvale Ave, Saratoga. Also Dec 16, 7pm. Trinity Cathedral, San Jose, 81 N. Second St, San Jose. $12–$18. 408.269.1905.

Winter Spirit

San Jose Youth Symphony Philharmonic and San Jose Taiko present music from Mozart, Ginastera, Rossini and others. Dec 8, 2:30pm. California Theatre, 345 S. First St, San Jose. 408.885.9220.

Winter's Gifts: Light

The Choral Project and San Jose Chamber Orchestra celebrate the holidays. Dec 14, 8pm. Holy Cross Church, 126 High St, Santa Cruz. Also Dec 15, 8pm. Mission Santa Clara, 500 El Camino Real, Santa Clara. Plus Dec 16, 7:30pm. St. Benedict's Church, 1200 Fairview Road, Hollister. $20–$30. 408.295.4416.

Winter Song

Silicon Valley Gay Men's Chorus presents its annual concert of holiday favorites and classical works. Dec 7–9, 8pm. $20. Christ the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 1550 Meridian Ave, San Jose. 408.266.8022.

You-Sing-it-Messiah Join the San Jose Symphony for a community sing-along. Dec 10, 7:30pm. California Theatre, 345 S. First St, San Jose.

Events

Ainsley Holiday Open House

Enjoy refreshments in the Carriage House while listening to holiday music. Dec 7, 13, and 16, 5:30–8pm. $10. Also, each room of the Ainsley House will be decorated by local interior designers and decorators to create a festive holiday environment. Dec 1–16, noon–4pm. $6–$8. 300 Grant St, Campbell. 408.866.2119

An Ardenwood Christmas

Celebrate the holidays in Victorian style. Dec 1–2, 10am–4pm. $5–$8. Ardenwood Historic Farm, 34600 Ardenwood Blvd, Fremont.

Arts and Crafts Fair

A holiday fair of handcrafted items, Sat, Dec 1, 10am–7pm. Free. St. Victor's Church, 3150 Sierra Road, San Jose. 408.251.1740.

Bethlehem

The story of Jesus' birth. Plus children's activities. Dec 6–10, 6:30 and 9pm. Free. Santa Clara First Baptist Church, 3111 Benton St, Santa Clara.

Breakfast With Santa

All proceeds benefit Habitat for Humanity Silicon Valley. Dec 8, 10am–11am. $5. Eastridge Mall, 2200 Eastridge Loop, San Jose. 408.238.3600.

Breakfast With Santa

Activities include a pancake breakfast, holiday crafts and a visit with Santa Claus. Dec 1, 8–11am. $3–$5. Burgess Recreation Center, 700 Alma St, Menlo Park.

Carol of Lights Festival

A family holiday celebration with music and Santa. Dec 2–4. East Campbell and Central avenues, downtown Campbell. www.caroloflights.org.

Chanukah Challa-Palooza

The JCC's hosts this community Chanukah event with food, music and games. Dec 2, noon–4pm. Addison-Penzak Jewish Community Center, 14855 Oka Road, Los Gatos. 408.357.7488.

Children's Discovery Museum

Peninsula Youth Theatre presents Dickens Carolers on Dec 1, 2pm. Giving Back Days offer chances for families to help others. Please bring donations of nonperishable food and blankets. Dec 26–28. Children's Discovery Museum, Woz Way and Auzerais Street, San Jose. 408.298.5437.

Children's Holiday Princess Teas

Children will be served afternoon tea, then gathered for a magic show and a story. Dec 10–11, 4–5:30pm. $29.95. Lisa's Tea Treasures, Santana Row, 1145 Olsen Ave, San Jose. 408.247.3613.

Christmas Creche Exhibit

Annual exhibit of 500 nativities from 65 countries on display. Live holiday music with evening concerts at 7pm, and a children's room. Dec 1–5, noon–9pm. Free. Church of Latter-day Saints, 3865 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto.

Christmas in Campbell

Stroll the streets for festive holiday decorations, extended business hours, live performances and Santa. Friday evening and Saturday afternoon. Dec 7–22. Free. Downtown Campbell.

Christmas in the Park

Walk through a holiday wonderland with dozens of trees decorated by local organizations, Christmas-themed displays, live entertainment and visits from Santa. Daily, 9am–midnight. Thru Jan 1. Free. Plaza de Cesar Chavez, Market and San Carlos streets, San Jose. 408.995.NOEL.

Community Sing-along

A night of caroling, concluding with cookies and hot chocolate. Dec 9, 7pm. Free. First Presbyterian Church of San Jose, 49 N. Fourth St, San Jose. 408.297.7212.

Downtown Ice

Ice skate outdoors in the open air. Daily thru Jan 13. Call for specific dates and times. $12–$14. Circle of Palms, between the Fairmont and the San Jose Museum of Art, San Jose. 408.291.0525.

Fantasy of Lights

Celebrate the holiday season with this annual drive-through Christmas lane, with animated displays and thousands of twinkling lights. Nightly, 6–10pm. Thru Dec 31. $10–$12. Vasona Lake County Park, Blossom Hill Road, Los Gatos. 408.355.2255.

Gingerbread House Exhibit

View participant-submitted festive gingerbread houses. Dec 3–7, 9am–5pm. Hillview Community Center, 97 Hillview Ave, Los Altos.

Heritage Holiday: Past and Present

Shopping, entertainment, an animal show, activities for all ages and Santa. Dec 1, 10am–4pm. $3–$10. History Park, 1650 Senter Road, San Jose. 408.287.2291.

Holiday Candlelight Teas

Champagne, soup, salad, tea sandwiches, savories, scones, holiday desserts and a pot of tea. Dec 14, 20 and 21, 6pm. $29.95. Lisa's Tea Treasures, Santana Row, 1145 Olsen Ave, San Jose. 408.247.3613.

Holiday Carriage Rides

Bi-weekly rides. Wed, 5–8pm and Sat, 10am–1pm. Thru Dec 19. $10 suggested donation; proceeds benefit Humane Society Silicon Valley. Santana Row, 400 S. Winchester Blvd, San Jose. 408.551.4611.

Holiday for the Arts

A 25th anniversary gala on Friday and an art show and sale during the weekend. Nov 30, 5:30–9pm, Dec 1, 10am–5pm and Dec 2, 10am–4pm. Gala $12.50–$15; show is free. Olive Hyde Art Gallery, 123 Washington Blvd, Fremont. 510.791.4357.

Holiday Gift Boutique

Beaded jewelry, jams, fabric and paper arts. Dec 1, 11am–3pm. Mid-Town Plaza, 1350 Saddle Rack St, San Jose. 408.275.8474.

Holiday Historic Home Tour

Includes Victorian styles, the railroad depot and much more. Dec 7, 6–10pm and Dec 8, noon–5pm. $20–$25. Harris-Lass House Museum, 1889 Market St, Santa Clara. 408.249.7905.

Holiday Lights

The park is brightened with millions of lights. Free with admission. Gilroy Gardens, 3050 Hecker Pass Hwy, Gilroy. 408.840.7100.

Holiday Lights Train

Ride the train through the streets of Santa Cruz while listening to carolers. Call for specific dates and times. Thru Dec 22. $15–$21.50. Santa Cruz Boardwalk, Santa Cruz. 831.335.4484.

Holiday Market

Several vendors offer goods, including jewelry, glass items, books, cookies and decorations. Dec 1, 2–6pm. Free. German International School of Silicon Valley, 310 Easy St, Mountain View. 650.254.0748.

Holiday Tea and Tours

Enjoy tea and treats in the Carriage House followed by a docent-led tour of the Ainsley House decorated for the holidays. Dec 1–11, 1:30pm. $25–$30. 300 Grant St, Campbell. 408.866.2758.

James Lick High School Holiday Faire

Handmade crafts, food and more. Proceeds benefit the high school's sports programs. Dec 1-, 9:30am–5pm and Dec 2, 9am–4pm. 57 N. White Road, San Jose. 408.258.6697.

Jim LaMarche

The local author reads his reworking of "The Elves and the Shoemaker." Dec 9, 11:30am. Kepler's Books, 1010 El Camino Real, Menlo Park. 650.324.4321.

Lantern Parade

Parade emphasizes giving to local charities. Dec 5, 6pm. Lanterns and songbooks are $5 per child. Meet at St. James Park, Second and St. John streets, San Jose. 408.286.1313.

Light Up the Night

A holiday tree-lighting event with a community sing-along. Dec 2, 6pm. Quinlan Community Center, 10185 N. Stelling Road, Cupertino. 408.777.3120.

Loma Prieta Holiday Art and Gift Faire

More than 40 artists and vendors, music and food. Dec 1, 10am–5pm and Dec 2, 10am–4pm. Loma Prieta Community Center, 23800 Summit Road, Los Gatos. 408.406.8406.

Los Gatos Holiday Parade

Annual children's Christmas and holiday parade. Dec 1, 11am. Santa Cruz Ave, Los Gatos. 408.354.8700, ext. 226.

The Night Before Christmas

Annual exhibit of dolls wearing vintage garments. Tue–Sat, 11am–4pm. Thru Jan 31. Lace Museum, 552 S. Murphy Ave, Sunnyvale. 408.730.4695.

Rengstorff House Holiday Open House

With authentic Victorian decorations and eggnog. Dec 4, 7–9pm. Free. Rengstorff House, 3070 N. Shoreline, Mountain View. 650.903.6073.

San Jose Holiday Parade

The parade will step off on Santa Clara Street and Delmas Avenue, near the HP Pavilion, proceeding east on Santa Clara Street. It will turn right on Market Street marching south past Plaza de Cesar Chavez. Dec 2, 8:30–11am. Free. HP Pavilion, 525 W. Santa Clara St, San Jose. 408.793.4170.

Santa Arrives by Helicopter

Santa swings into the museum to listen to holiday wish lists. Plus carols from the Community Band. Dec 2, 10am–noon. $6–$9. Hiller Aviation Museum, San Carlos Airport, San Carlos. 650.654.0200.

Santa Paws

Four-legged furry friends can get their pictures taken with Mr. Claus, and 10 percent of sales will benefit the Humane Society. Dec 9, 4–7pm. Valley Fair Mall, 2855 Stevens Creek Blvd, Santa Clara. 408.248.4450.

Santa Visits

Santa makes stops at various San Jose branch libraries. For details, visit www.sjlibrary.org.

Toy Trains Exhibit

Join the Museum of Art and History for a rotating cavalcade of operating toy trains from the 1920s to the 21st century. Dec 18–30. Tue–Sun, 11am–5pm. Museum of Art and History, McPherson Center, 705 Front St, Santa Cruz. 831.429.1964.

Tree Lighting Ceremony

Including music and entertainment and free refreshments. Dec 7, 6–7:30pm. Santa Clara City Hall, Lincoln between Warburton and Civic Center Drive, Santa Clara. 408.615.3170.

Toys From the Attic

An eclectic collection of toys from the past. Fri–Sun, 11am–4pm. Thru Feb 24. Museum of American Heritage, 351 Homer Ave, Palo Alto, 650.321.1004.

Tree Treasures

Make old-fashioned holiday tree treasures. Dec 1, 10am–4pm. Free. San Mateo County History Museum, 2200 Broadway, Redwood City.

Visit Santa

Kids (and pets) can stop by the mall to visit Santa and his helpers. Call for hours. Thru Dec. 24. Valley Fair Mall, 2855 Stevens Creek Blvd, Santa Clara. 408.248.4450.

Winter Wonderland

Carnival rides, including a carousel and Ferris wheel and more. Daily. Thru Dec 31. Paseo de San Antonio, downtown San Jose. 408.286.1313.

Winter Woods

A holiday tradition with boutique, buffet meals and more. Thru Dec 1. Call for prices and schedule. Filoli Gardens, Woodside. 650.364.8300, ext. 508.

Virgin Artist's Annual Art Show and Sale

Featuring items by artists new to their craft. Nov 30, 11am–9pm. 10461 Scenic Blvd, Cupertino. 408.446.2804.

Visit Santa

The jolly saint visits the mall for photos and requests. Call for dates and times. Thru Dec 24. Eastridge Mall 2200 Eastridge Loop, San Jose. 408.238.3600.

Yuletide Yuckfest A comedy benefit with Clinton Jackson, Dan St. Paul, Gretchen Rootes, Carla Clayy, Jacob Sirof and others, plus music by Chubby's All-Stars. Proceeds go to Santa Clara County Toys for Tots. Dec 2, 7pm. $10 with unwrapped toy; $15 general. Rooster T. Feathers, 157 W. El Camino Real, Sunnyvale. 408.736.0921.

Send a letter to the editor about this story.