Escapes: Snow fight on Treasure Island
SAN FRANCISCO
Wintry craft fair
Just three years ago, Treasure Island Flea made its debut. Now the monthly event – every last full weekend – is one of the region’s biggest regular showcases of local artists, musicians, food truck chefs and other creative types. It usually draws 15,000 people, but this November edition is extra special: It may be the only snowball fight happening in the Bay Area all year.
The weekend marks Treasure Island’s second annual Snowvember. At 10 a.m. Saturday, 20 tons of snow will provide an icy playground. If snowball fights aren’t your thing, you can still shop for antiques, handmade clothing, repurposed furniture and other crafted goods from more than 400 vendors.
This month will feature a tote-designing class, a jewelry-making station and a how-to on creating tree art out of wire. Kids will love their own designated zone, with face painting, a jump house, bungee jump, petting zoo and magician.
Treasure Island Flea takes place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Admission costs $3, but kids 12 and under get in free. Learn more at www.treasureislandflea.com.
GRASS VALLEY
Cornish Christmas
What: Carolers, jugglers, musicians and Santa Claus will fill historic downtown Grass Valley for the 47th annual Cornish Christmas Celebration. The streets will be closed to motorists, making way for artists and food and drink vendors. Park at the Nevada County Fairgrounds and hop onto a free shuttle to the festivities.
When: 6-9 p.m. Fridays through Dec. 19
Where: Mill and West Main streets, Grass Valley
Cost: Free
Information: historicgrassvalley.com
FORT BRAGG
Illuminated gardens
What: The already-lush and beautiful Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens will glisten with even more magic for its fifth annual Festival of Lights. Thousands of glittering lights will transform ordinary paths and tunnels into enchanted scenes.
When: 5-7:30 p.m. Friday and continues every Thursday through Sunday until Dec. 14
Where: Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens, 18220 North Highway 1, Fort Bragg
Cost: $10, youths 16 and under free
Information: www.gardenbythesea.org
PLACERVILLE
Holiday lights
What: Historic Main Street will close for old-fashioned fun at Placerville’s Festival of Lights. Expect live music, visits with Santa Claus, stagecoach rides and a traditional tree-lighting at 6 p.m.
When: 5:30-8 p.m. Friday
Where: Main Street, Placerville
Cost: Free
Information: www.placerville-downtown.org
WALNUT CREEK
Festive tea time
What: Shadelands Ranch Museum will host three-course Victorian tea luncheons in honor of the holidays. During the two-week span, the museum will also sell handcrafted gift items as part of its annual holiday faire.
When: 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Saturday through Dec. 14
Where: Shadelands Ranch Museum, 2660 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek
Cost: $30
Information: walnutcreekhistory.info
Bee Staff
This story was originally published November 22, 2014 at 10:00 AM with the headline "Escapes: Snow fight on Treasure Island."