Our picks of places to go and things to do to make the most of your month in and around Northern California.
SEE THE CITY LIGHT UP HERE - Starting on Thanksgiving Day and running through New Year’s Day, the Illuminate SF Festival of Light will set up 39 permanent and temporary eco-friendly, light-based art installations around the city, from the Embarcadero to Golden Gate Park to the Inner Sunset and beyond. Check out the related events or drop into a tour—these public art pieces encourage visitors and locals to “embrace the power of light.”
GET TOASTY HERE - Wine fans, this event is for you. On November 9, the San Francisco Cabfest will host a day (and evening) of top-tier tastings and special multi-course meals at the Westfield Under the Dome in SoMa. Attendees will be given a special 22-ounce glass upon entering so they can taste Cabernet blends, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Francs to their heart’s content.
ENJOY A WINTERY CELEBRATION HERE - On November 22, catch an SF winter tradition down at the Embarcadero. The Building Lighting Ceremony and Carnival will kick off at 4pm with when four iconic buildings will be lit with 17,000 holiday lights. This moment will be accompanied by a firework show and an ice skating performance.
FIND CRAFTY HOLIDAY GIFTS HERE - From 10am to 6pm, the Marin Arts & Crafts Show at the County Civic Center will host a selection of local artisans known for their uniquely handcrafted products. The selection of items at this showcase are vast and range from textiles, furniture and ceramics to jewelry, artifacts, estate finds, photography, paintings and sculptures.
PAIR WINE WITH FILM HERE - Ready for some truly world-class wining and dining? Block out Wednesday, November 13 through Sunday, November 17 for the 9th Annual Napa Valley Film Fest. This celebration of today’s most dynamic culinary talents and cinematic breakthroughs will take place at theaters and venues around Napa, Yountville, St. Helena and Calistoga. This year’s festival will spotlight more than 125 new independent films and studio sneak previews, plus chef demonstrations and (of course) wine tastings.
FASHION FOR A CAUSE - Take in some fresh fall fashion and contribute to a great cause on November 4 at The Danville Children’s Guild’s Fall Fashion Show. The event (already a hot ticket in the area) will host numerous local boutique owners and designers who will bring along clothing and accessories. Feel free to shop with abandon—this event benefits the National Alliance on Mental Illness Contra Costa.
