Festive Virtual Community Events Celebrate the Season

Here’s a sampling of festive holiday events taking place in Oakland through New Year’s Eve. An * after the event name indicates free admission. All area codes are (510), unless noted.

Online through Dec. 20 Virtual GIFTY 2020: Shop Unique Local Artisanal Gifts*

The Crucible’s annual gift show goes virtual. They’ll be highlighting over 80 Bay Area makers and small businesses selling things like original jewelry, handcrafted soaps, sculpted glassware and much more. A number of vendors have also generously donated items to the Giving Back at GIFTY program, with 100% of funds raised going toward The Crucible’s programs. thecrucible.org

Through December Temescal Holiday Lights* Temescal District, Telegraph Ave. from West MacArthur to 52nd Enjoy festive lighting displays as you drive the Temescal District while you shop local. temescaldistrict.org

Through Jan. 10, 2021 Holiday Lakeshore Love* Online or on Lakeshore and Lake Park Aves

Win over 30 prizes with by entering Holiday Lakeshore Love! Lakeshore holiday shopping at its finest and supporting beloved local businesses. lakeshoreavenue.com/lakeshorelove

On Demand At Any Time Oakland Symphony rePAST* Enjoy archival concerts, streaming free with a new post every Friday. oaklandsymphony.org/repast

Through Jan.16, various hours Holiday Show*

Creative Growth Art Center, 355 24th St.

Creative Growth is excited to host this beloved annual event, which looks a bit different this year. For those who prefer to stay home or aren’t local, shop the show online. For in-person shopping, there will be scheduled appointments to keep everyone safe. Reserve your spot to shop in-person. creativegrowth.org, 836-2340 or gallery@creativegrowth.org

Through Dec. 11, 7 p.m. nightly Always Together: Lights Up for the Holidays – 5 Days of Celebration!* Jack London Square,

472 Water Street

While the holidays may look a little different this year, Jack London Square eagerly anticipates the return of festive spirit and holiday cheer on the Oakland waterfront. One of Oakland’s favorite holiday traditions continues with the virtual lighting countdown of the spectacular 55-foot white fir tree adorned with thousands of lights and hundreds of colorful ornaments. Hosted by KTVU Fox 2 anchor Gasia Mikaelian, the series of virtual events begin at 7 p.m. each evening and will feature a variety of festive holiday entertainment, local artisans and donation drives for local nonprofits. The series culminates with the virtual tree lighting ceremony starting on Dec. 11. The tree will remain on the waterfront until earlyJanuary providing the perfect socially-distanced photo op with your household. jacklondonsquare.com or 645-9292

Wednesday, Dec. 9, 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. Virtual Keep it Oakland Virtual Bazaar*

The Oakland Indie Alliance will give local independently-owned businesses half-hour blocks each, to take over the @KeepitOakland18 Instagram account and host a livestream of their choice (i.e., a reading, a demo, a workshop, a tour, etc.). The goal is to drive Californians to support small and local businesses online, leading up to the holiday shopping season. Enjoy a virtual shopping experience and support Oakland’s indie businesses. The Virtual Bazaar is a partnership between the Oakland Indie Alliance, California Office of Small Business Advocate and NextGenPolicy. instagram.com/keepoakland18

Saturday, Dec. 12, Noon-5 p.m. Shop Local on 25th Street* 25th Street between Telegraph and Broadway

Enjoy holiday shopping direct from dozens of local artists’ and designers’ studios. 25thstoakland.com

Dec. 12-13 & Dec. 18-20, various times

35 Annual Revels: Unruly Magic Approaching the longest night of the year, a young Reveler turns to a magical staff to help her find a way through somber and troubled times. The staff, imbued with ancient lore, takes her on an adventure that isn’t quite what she had in mind. Magic and mystery, spirits and song take the reins for this journey of the heart. The ancient traditions of bonfires, rituals, dances and songs that have sustained generations through struggle and celebration are rekindled this Solstice, proving that tradition—and magic—lives on. There will be plenty of music and dance, interactive moments, sing-alongs, laughter, a touch of darkness, and a lot of joy. All performances are virtual, so you can enjoy them from the comfort of home. californiarevels.org or 452-9334

Thursday, Dec. 17, 5:30 p.m. Inaugural Oakland Car Menorah Parade*

Chabad of Oakland,

3014 Lakeshore Ave.

Meet at Chabad and drive through the streets of Oakland with Menorah topped cars. Share the joy and spread the Chanukah light. jewishoakland.org/featured/carmenorah-parade/

Saturday, Dec. 19, 2 p.m.

The Nutcracker Stay-at-Home Matinee

The Oakland Ballet Company brings The Nutcracker holiday tradition to you in a virtual format. Enjoy the magic of The Nutcracker from the comfort of your own home. OBC Artistic Director Graham Lustig and OBC dancer Paunika Jones will be your guides for this holiday tradition. oaklandballet.org

Beginning Saturday, Dec. 19 “Let Us Break Bread Together” in Your Home!*

This year, Oakland’s favorite holiday musical tradition by the Oakland Symphony and Chorus is streamed straight into your home. Music Director Michael Morgan has selected his favorite moments from last year’s “Let Us Break Bread Together” celebration, such as “Sleigh Ride,” the Hallelujah Chorus from Handel’s “Messiah,” carols, classical and more. Enjoy it from the best seats in your house through on-demand streaming. oaklandsymphony.org

Thursday, Dec. 31, 11 a.m. - Noon Virtual Balloon Drop

New Year Celebration Chabot Space & Science Center When it’s noon in Oakland, it will be 2021 somewhere on the planet. Ring in the new year without staying up late as Chabot Space & Science Center counts down to 2021. Continuing a 20-year tradition, the virtual party will feature hundreds of colorful, bio-degradable balloons raining down from above. After registration, a Zoom event link will be emailed. chabotspace.org