Holiday season is a joyful time to visit California’s Tri-Valley
Autumn art
Art aficionados can embrace the bright colors of fall at the Whisper of Autumn art show running until Sunday, Nov. 16, at the Latte Da Vinci Gallery in Pleasanton during opening hours. The show encompasses a variety of media, including painting, photography, assemblage and encaustic art. Attendees can vote for their favorite pieces through Saturday, Nov. 1, and winners will be announced at a free reception the same day that runs from 4 to 8 p.m. with coffee and live music.
Inspirational pairings
A visit to Northern California’s wine country is never complete without sampling the local offerings, and Livermore’s McGrail Vineyards is happy to oblige with Gather, Gobble, Cheers! from 7 to 9 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 13. This wine tasting features carefully crafted wine and cheese pairings intended to serve as inspiration for holiday dishes, whether you’re hosting or visiting others for Thanksgiving. Tickets are available on Tock for $75 each.
Burn off the turkey
If you’re visiting the Tri-Valley on Thanksgiving day, the 11th Annual Tri-Valley Turkey Burn in Pleasanton will help offset the full feeling you’re sure to get later at dinnertime. Taking place from 9 to 11 a.m. on Thursday, Nov. 27, starting at Ken Mercer Sports Park, this event offers options for 5k or 10k distances. Whether you want to run or walk, all are welcome in the Turkey Burn.
Race entries include custom bibs where you can write what you’re thankful for, coffee before the race and snacks after. Race entry costs $5 to $25 per person before fees, and you can sign up on runsignup.com.
Holiday fun in Pleasanton
Once December chill comes into the air, the Tri-Valley shifts into winter holiday mode with a joyous, family-friendly atmosphere. Kick things off for your holiday season celebrations with the free Magical Holiday Evening on Friday, Dec. 5. From 4 to 7 p.m. in downtown Pleasanton, enjoy photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, family-friendly activities, live music, food and shopping.
The next day, Pleasanton hosts its Hometown Holiday Celebration, which is free to the public. On Saturday, Dec. 6, the event kicks off with the Hometown Holiday Parade at 5 p.m., featuring floats, marching bands and groups from the community. After the parade concludes, it will be followed by a tree lighting ceremony at 6:45 p.m. with music and an appearance by Santa.
Wine and artisans
McGrail Vineyards will also get into the festive spirit on Saturday, Dec. 6, and Sunday, Dec. 7, from 12 to 4:30 p.m. with the Holiday in the Vineyard at McGrail. In addition to McGrail’s fabulous local wines on sale by the glass or bottle, you’ll find live music and vendors selling locally made artisan gifts for your loved ones at this free event. Wood-fired pizza will also be available for purchase to satisfy your appetite.
Celtic traditions
Those looking to add some Irish flair to their trip can embrace the country’s Christmas traditions with Irish Christmas in America on Monday, Dec. 8. Starting at 7:30 p.m. at the Bankhead Theater in Livermore, the performance includes singing, dancing and storytelling infused with Celtic traditions. Tickets are available on the Bankhead Theater website for $25 to $55 per person.
Jazzed for the holidays
For a jazzy twist on holiday performances, look no further than the Stella Cole with Strings Holiday Show on Thursday, Dec. 18, at 7:30 p.m. at the Bankhead Theater. Stella Cole has an old-school jazz-infused voice she’s happy to share backed by a string ensemble in this concert featuring holiday classics sure to put you in a festive mood. Tickets are available on the Bankhead Theater website for $50 to $80 per person.
Motown Music
If you can’t get enough of holiday music, The Best Intentions: Motown Christmas will give you a soulful, classic take on your favorite Motown holiday songs. On Friday, Dec. 19, and Saturday, Dec. 20, head to Almost Famous Wine Lounge in Livermore for a 7:30 p.m. showtime where The Best Intentions will perform their signature style, inspired by classic Motown and R&B sounds from the 1960s to the 1980s. Tickets are available for the Friday and Saturday performances on Eventbrite.
When you’re ready to rest and relax for another day of festive activities in the Tri-Valley, The Rose Hotel is here to provide the most luxurious accommodations in the area. We take inspiration from European hotels for a classy ambience and take pride in providing the utmost in customer service, ensuring every detail of your stay is attended to for a memorable experience.
Because of our focus on ensuring our guests have a quality stay, we have limited availability. We recommend booking your desired dates as soon as possible to secure your reservation. We wish you safe travels to Pleasanton, and we look forward to putting you in the holiday spirit.
Reach us by emailing info@RoseHotel.net, calling (925) 846-8802, or stopping by to visit at 807 Main St., Pleasanton, CA 94566. Click here to book your next visit to the Rose Hotel.