By Claire Taylor
Things to Do in San Francisco in December
offers a world of possibilities year-round, but December is a particularly busy month. Tons of holiday shows and events are held throughout town, and visitors and locals alike can enjoy not only something "Christmas-y" but also use the opportunity to shop for presents or take a break from the holiday madness.
Beach Blanket Babylon Holiday Shows
Starting December 2 and throughout the whole month, those in San Francisco can take part in the beach Blanket Babylon Shows, the longest-running musical in the United States. The plot of the show is based on Snow White searching for Prince Charming and along the way running into all sorts of characters (from Clinton to Oprah to Paris Hilton), all of whom break out in song parodies. The other distinctive characteristic of the show is the giant hats and wigs the characters wear, some of which have buildings, monuments and other extravagant items built on them. While the show runs year-round, the ones presented during December have particular themes, characters and set decorations especially created to go along with the Christmas spirit.
Beach Blanket Babylon
678 Beach Blanket Babylon Boulevard
(Green Street)
San Francisco, CA 94133
(415) 421-4222
Great Dickens Christmas Fair
Starting on November 29 and running until December 30, this is probably the most impressive Holiday show in the entire country. Rather than a single presentation or event, this is set up as a fair, where visitors get to wander around complete sets of buildings, shops and small, corner events made to look like "A Christmas Carol" came to life. Expect lots of costumed characters, live 19th century-style music, holiday lights and artisans and crafters showing their talent live. The whole fair covers more than 90,000 square feet, and you will need several hours to make the most of the place. A large Christmas tree is also center stage to the fair.
Cow Palace Exhibition Hall
2600 Geneva Ave at Santos St.
San Francisco, CA 94014
(415) 404-4100
KPFA Crafts and Music Fair
One of the largest craft festivals in the country, the KPFA attracts hundreds of artists selling handmade items that vary from pottery to mosaics to eco-friendly designs. There are also photography, textiles, printmaking, weaving and food products on display and for sale. Live music, featuring classical pianists and violinists, soul and jazz musicians and even some experimental punk rock, can be seen playing on several stages throughout the area. The event takes place on two days in the middle of the month (dates vary) and lasts from morning till evening.
Concourse Exhibition Center
635 8th Street
San Francisco, CA 94103
(415) 490-5800
About the Author:
Claire Taylor is a health, wellness and travel writer with credits in publications such as "Woman's Day," "Marie Claire," "Adirondack Life" and "Self." Taylor is also a seasoned independent traveler, as well as a certified personal trainer and nutrition consultant.
Photo Credits:
Dgriep
