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I am in complete denial that Halloween is over, November is well underway, and the merchants have been sneaking holiday decorations and merchandise into their stores for weeks. It’s way too early to talk about plans for the holidays isn’t it?
Maybe not. Every year – I procrastinate on making holiday plans & then miss out on some events I would have liked to attend. Not this year.
Here are some of the Los Altos Holiday Events on the calendar for November and December this year.
Friday November 13 - 5 to 9 p.m.
Downtown Holiday Stroll
Enjoy treats & beverages at 50 unique downtown Los Altos shops. Music by the Peninsula Harmony Chorus. Free Carriage rides.
November 19 – December 19
The Bus Barn Theatre presents “A Christmas Pudding.” A low-calorie holiday treat with songs, music and tales from Charles Dickens, Mark Twain, Shakespeare, Emily Dickinson, and George Bernard Shaw.
Sunday November 29 - 6 to 7 p.m.
Festival of Lights Parade
Since 1977 – families have gathered on the Sunday of Thanksgiving weekend to celebrate the magic of the holiday season. Today – over 17,000 people enjoy the annual lighted floats, costumed charaters, and of course Jolly St. Nick himself. Note that people begin reserving space along the parade route at noon on the day of the parade.
November 30 to December 4
23rd Annual Gingerbread House Exhibit
Hillview Community Center. Come see the traditional and the modern versions of the classic holiday gingerbread house. If you and your family are really brave – design and build your own gingerbread house for display! See the website above for entry and exhibit details.
Friday – December 4 - 6 p.m.
Downtown Tree Lighting Ceremony
Lighting the holiday tree feels like the “official” start of the holiday season – the big question is will it rain this year?
Saturday – December 5 – 9 a.m.
Breakfast with Santa. Enjoy pancakes, eggs, sausage, juice, coffee and a visit from Santa at Aldo’s Restaurant, 388 Main Street. $20 per person.
Sunday, December 6 – 1 to 4 p.m.
Holiday Barn Lighting – Westwind Community Barn
27210 Altamont Rd, Los Altos Hills. See the arts & crafts; visit Santa in an antique horse carriage; and enjoy live music.
December 11, 12, 13, 18, 19, 20, 26, 27
Holiday Carriage Rides - Enjoy a festive 25-minute carriage ride through beautiful, decorated downtown Los Altos! The carriages can accommodate 4 adults and 2 children – a perfect family treat! A carriage ride is $80 and can be reserved at (650) 949-5282.
Friday & Saturday, December 18 & 19 – 3:00 to 8:30 p.m.
Santa Makes Early House Calls in Los Altos! St. Nick has set aside two days to stop by Los Altos homes for a quick visit. Los Altos residents only, please. Call (650) 947-2848 for more information and to register for a visit.
December 21 to 23 - 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Camp Candycane - Hilliview Community Center
The summer camp dream team returns for a holiday-themed camp filled with art, projects, gift-making, music and treat-baking! Call (650) 947-2790 to register.
Friday, January 1 – 9 a.m.
2010 New Year’s Day 5K Fun Run
Community Plaza (intersection of Main and State Streets). Run, walk, stroll, roll or skate with your family and friends. No bikes. Dogs on leashes are welcome. Free event. No registration is needed.
And whatever your holiday plans may be – I hope to be the first to wish you and yours – Happy Holidays!
