The last weekend before the holidays kick off is often a busy one. So if you still haven't gotten a chance to meet Santa or need to get some last-minute shopping done at a craft market, we've got you covered. Or if you'd rather take some "me time" before the main event, a nature walk, improv show or underground rave might be just the ticket.
Here's where to go for some festive fun in SF this weekend.
Winter Wonderland
Bayview's big holiday event will take place rain or shine, with free stockings and holiday crafts for kids, as well as a chance to meet Santa. Adults can shop a holiday market with items from local vendors, enjoy music from the Seastrunk Brothers and food from Bayview restaurants, and toast s'mores over a fire.
When: Thursday, December 19, 5 p.m.
Where: Bayview Opera House (Ruth Williams Memorial Theatre), 4705 Third St.
Price: Free admission; $25 suggested donation
Theatresports On Ice
As the days grow colder and shorter, a little laughter can be the best medicine. BATS is coming to the rescue with a funny, fast-paced improv competition themed around the holidays. Two teams will go head-to-head each night, challenging each other to games, scenes and songs inspired by the season. According to organizers, the show has been a fan favorite for over 30 years.
When: Friday, December 20, 8 p.m.
Where: BATS Bayfront Theater, B350 Fort Mason Center
Price: $17 online, $20 at the door
December Bird Walk on Mount Sutro
Looking for a break from the holiday rush? Take a two-mile walk up Mount Sutro to spot local birds like fox sparrows and ruby-crowned kinglets, with a Sutro Stewards guide to tell you more about these winter species. Attendees should be advised that there will be some uphill climbing, and the trails are narrow, unpaved, and rocky in places, so bring appropriate gear and shoes.
When: Saturday, December 21, 8:30 a.m.
Where: Mount Sutro; meet at the UCSF Woods Lot at 100 Medical Center Way
Price: Free
TVOD Winter Solstice Underground
Dance your holiday cares away at a winter solstice party hosted by Tenderloin theater company CounterPulse and event series T.V.O.D. Stacked with artists from the contemporary Bay Area rave underground scene, this all-night dance party will feature the likes of TR4VI3ZA (Club Chai) and OSO FEO (Cult Freq, Only Human).
When: Saturday, December 21, 10 p.m.
Where: CounterPulse, 80 Turk St.
Price: $10 all night long
Santa at Farmers' Market
If you need some last-minute items for your holiday feast, head over to Ninth Avenue for the weekly Sunday farmers market. As an added bonus, kids will have the opportunity to meet with Santa.
When: Sunday, December 22, 11 a.m.
Where: Inner Sunset Farmers' Market, 1320 9th Ave.
Price: Free
