Dec 12 Friday
Celebrate the holiday season with A Christmas Story, the beloved stage adaptation of Jean Shepherd’s classic tale of 1940s childhood dreams and holiday misadventures. Follow 9-year-old Ralphie Parker on his determined quest for the ultimate Christmas gift—a genuine Red Ryder BB gun. Along the way, he pleads his case with cranky parents, stern teachers, even Santa himself! The consistent response: “You’ll shoot your eye out!”
Packed with holiday mischief, childhood dreams and nostalgic charm, A Christmas Story captures the magic of the season with wit, warmth and plenty of laughs. Bring the whole family and make this cherished classic part of your holiday tradition!
The Santa Barbara Master Chorale and Dr. David Lozano Torres present The Light So Shines — a theatrical concert experience where drama and music intertwine to tell a story of hope, joy, and divine light. At the heart of the evening is Gerald Finzi’s luminous In Terra Pax, surrounded by inspiring works by Sarah Quartel, Dan Forrest, Mack Wilberg, and Mark Hayes. Beloved carols such as Angels We Have Heard on High, Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, and Deck the Hall help guide the unfolding narrative, brought to life by actors, soloists, and chamber orchestra.
Dec 13 Saturday
Join us for a transformative day with Rinpoche Thepo Tulku, a revered spiritual leader, beloved Buddhist teacher, and world-renowned human rights activist. Known for his dedication to spreading love, compassion, and wisdom, Rinpoche Thepo has touched countless lives through his teachings and guidance. He is celebrated for his joyful and humble presence, both in the Tibetan community and his adopted homeland.
Born in Tibet, Thepo Tulku was recognized as the 8th Thepo Tulku as a young child. In 1959, at just five years old, he fled Lhasa during the brutal crackdown on the Tibetan uprising, journeying through the Himalayas on the shoulders of monks who were shepherding the Dalai Lama to safety in India. His life story is one of resilience, courage, and devotion.
The day begins at 10 am with a warm welcome and live music by Nicole Cassingham of the Taproots (taprootsmusic.com), followed by an introduction to White Tara and a powerful White Tara empowerment ceremony led by Rinpoche Thepo Tulku.
We will be having a potluck so please bring a dish to share. All are welcome to attend this special event. Love offerings for Rinpoche are gratefully accepted, with a suggested donation of $25.
Please RSVP to events@awakeningways.org
The Grover Beach Morning Parade is back! Get ready for a joyful day of creative floats, incredible performances, and festive holiday spirit.
This MBAA Members ONLY exhibit is truly a holiday shopping bonanza. The Winter Faire is a perfect destination for getting inspired. Come find the perfect gift while supporting local artisans. There is something for everyone. Handcrafted ornaments, jewelry and cards, paintings, sculptures, larger statement pieces and more. This show is not to be missed, whether you’re knocking out your entire holiday shopping list or just looking a unique gift for that someone special, purchasing art at the Winter Faire is a chance to give with meaning while sharing the magic of creativity.
—Runs from November 6th to January 5th.—Artist’s Reception: Sunday November 9th, from 2 to 4pm—For more information visit www.artcentermorrobay.org.
Tis the Season is an annual holiday extravaganza with special guest appearances, dancing, singing, and everything needed to get in the spirit.
Build your flipping finesse at our Handsprings & Aerials Clinic! We'll check out what you know, and give you tips for safe, successful improvement. The Target Skills are intermediate level, but even beginners can start working on the fundamentals. All levels welcome. Ages 5 to 17 years.
Step into the magic of the season at Central Coast Waldorf School’s beloved Winter Faire—an enchanting celebration that draws families from across the Central Coast. This joy-centered evening brings winter’s beauty to life through storytelling, craft-making, a bustling children’s market, artisan shopping, seasonal treats, puppet shows, singing, and whimsical games. A perfect way for families of all ages to welcome winter with warmth, creativity, and wonder.
After a nine-year hiatus, the feminine-celebrating music festival Ladyfest, in collaboration with The Feminine Collective, returns to Niffy’s Merrimaker with a stacked lineup of 29 Central Coast and West Coast musicians.
Performances range from shared songs to full band sets, spanning folk, Americana, jazz, rock, alternative, and electronic from 2 pm to 1 am. This 21+ event also debuts battles in which eight Central Coast powerhouses compete—up to three rounds—until a Ladyfest ’25 Winner is crowned at the end of the night.