Wishing You Love, Laughter, and a Little Holiday Magic
Embracing The Magic Of The Season
As December unfolds, we find ourselves caught in the whirlwind of holiday preparations. Amidst the hustle and bustle, I remind myself to pause and savor those small moments of joy that make the season magical.
This month's issue of Walnut Creek City Lifestyle is designed to help you navigate the festivities with ease and inspiration. Our cover showcases a stunning holiday design by local event planner Aram Mortazavi, founder of LovelyMomentsPlanning. Her article offers beautiful ideas for enhancing your home for Christmas, the Winter season, and New Year's Eve celebrations. For more daily inspiration, follow her on Instagram at @lovelymomentsplanning.
Navigating holiday shopping can be daunting, but our unique gift guide offers delightful options for those hard-to-shop-for individuals in your life. We've reached out to our advertisers, who have graciously offered our readers various packages and discounts. Additionally, we highlight local shops run by community members where you can find some true gems. It's a wonderful opportunity to support local businesses while finding that perfect gift.
In the spirit of giving, we also shine a light on those working in our community to enhance it. Community Concern for Cats, a local nonprofit dedicated to feline welfare, is an all-volunteer organization that has been rescuing and rehoming cats in Contra Costa County since 1986. They offer services such as fostering, adoption, and trap-neuter-return programs, significantly impacting the lives of countless cats.
As we juggle the busy holiday season, it's essential for me to take a moment to reflect on the year's blessings. One of my greatest joys this year has been launching Walnut Creek City Lifestyle and partnering with local businesses who believed in my vision. They took a chance on me, and we were able to bring this lifestyle magazine to our area. I am sincerely thankful for their support. I am also thankful for my family, friends, and my health. And finally, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to you, our valued reader, for welcoming City Lifestyle into your lives each month.
Wishing you all a joyful holiday season filled with love, joy, and cherished moments. Thank you for being part of our community!
Warmest wishes,
LAUREL KELLAM, PUBLISHER
@WALNUTCREEKCITYLIFESTYLE
December 2024
PUBLISHER
Laurel Kellam
laurel.kellam@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Hemananthani Sivanandam hema.sivanandam@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Jennifer Starbuck jennifer.starbuck@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Julie Brown Patton, Lindsey Hickman, Cole Cronk, and Sarah Capperauld
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Aika Cardin
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
ANY SPACE IS AN OPPORTUNITY
Astounding Construction Inc. delivers exceptional craftsmanship, transforming spaces with premium finishes and meticulous attention to detail. Our recent projects showcase luxurious outdoor areas, featuring seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor living spaces, enhanced by highquality materials like stone-tiled floors and sleek glass doors. From the foundation to the final touches, every phase of construction is handled with precision, ensuring long-lasting, beautiful results. Whether it’s a large-scale renovation or a custom addition, Astounding Construction Inc. combines passion, expertise, and premium materials to bring your dream home to life.
Mention Walnut Creek City
DECEMBER
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1—3: Valley Art Gallery turned 75, making it one of the country’s oldest-operated private art galleries. The Gallery hosted an open house where attendees enjoyed live music and a silent auction. The auction’s proceeds went to the Gallery’s public school art program’s annual Gloria Marshall Award. 4—5: Broadway Plaza’s Fall Into Wellness Fair is a vibrant health and wellness festival. Attendees enjoyed several activities and classes throughout the day. 6—7: Students from Beloved Little Circus recently performed at the Walnut Creek First Wednesday Street Fest. Beloved Little Circus helps students build strength and confidence while learning aerial arts.
@JIM.ALIFERIS INSTAGRAM
@JIM.ALIFERIS INSTAGRAM
@JIM.ALIFERIS INSTAGRAM
JAMES BRIAN STUDIOS
JAMES BRIAN STUDIOS
SARAH STONEROCK
SARAH STONEROCK
Avida Home Care
Families can rest easy knowing that their loved ones receive the best possible care in the comfort of their own homes with Avida Home Care. Avida, which means “A Life,” understands the unique challenges seniors face. Knowing this, their team offers home care designed to meet the needs of each individual, prioritizing their comfort, safety, dignity, and physical and emotional needs to enhance their quality of life in their golden years. Visit avidahomecare.net/
Photography by Avida Home Care
A&A Studio
Don’t just list your home for sale; showcase it! A&A Studio’s expertise in staging will make buyers fall in love with your space, one room at a time. This premier staging company, founded in 2017, serves over 20 cities in the Contra Costa and Alameda counties. It specializes in creating custom staging plans for vacant homes, taking into consideration their best features and appeal. Their staged homes sell faster and for higher prices. Visit aandastaging.com/
Scan to read more
Yelena Vayn
Yelena is a licensed realtor in California and a new homeowner in Walnut Creek who uses her tech-savvy expertise to study the real estate market. Armed with her degrees in Neuroscience and Biology, Yelena uses her academics by dissecting data and analyzing trends in the real estate industry. If you’re looking for a realtor who is empathetic to your needs, knowledgeable, and committed, contact Yelena at 650.701.5442 or visit yelenavayn.kw.com/agent/ yelena-vayn/888361
Photography by A&A Studio
Photography by Yelena Vayn
ELEGANCE ON a Budget
ARAM MORTAZAVI’S GUIDE TO STYLISH, FESTIVE LOOKS
ARTICLE BY SARAH CAPPERAULD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY AIKA CARDIN
Aram shares the hottest trends in holiday décors.
The holidays are when the art of interior design and festive creativity blend perfectly, transforming our living space into a haven filled with warmth and style. For event planner Aram Mortazavi, the founder and owner of LovelyMomentsPlanning, the fusion of tradition and trendy accents is at the heart of her holiday décor.
Aram's Christmas setup is nothing but a masterclass in luxurious simplicity. It features a statement-making tree adorned with a velvet green bow cascading from the top to the floor, complemented by plush velvet ornaments and rustic iron bells.
"This adds a unique texture and luxurious look to the tree, creating a rich, sophisticated feel," says Aram. Besides the tree, a fireplace can also be a center point in a room. A fireplace draped in verdant garlands and thoughtfully placed stockings exudes warmth and holiday charm.
Aram, an event planner since 2020, said achieving a luxurious and elegant look to transform your space doesn't necessarily come with a heavy price tag.
"This can easily be recreated with a modest budget."
She says most decorations, such as garlands, ornaments, ribbons, and velvet fabrics, can be purchased from budget-friendly stores such as Hobby Lobby, Amazon, HomeGoods, and Marshalls.
This year's hottest holiday trend is large bows on Christmas trees, but Aram incorporates this trend with a twist, using a giant velvet bow paired with velvet ornaments and iron bells.
"This adds drama and elegance with a luxurious and unique texture," she says. Depending on the tree's size and the décor's complexity, the entire setup can be completed in a few hours, making it a manageable project for beginners and intermediate decorators.
For New Year's, Aram shifts the mood by curating a lavish yet moody tablescape, perfect for ushering in the year with sophistication. The table exudes glamour and beauty by using dark tablecloths, elegant dishware, and an array of florals, candles, and metallic accents.
"I was inspired by nature and texture. For the New Year's setup, I wanted to create something moody but glamorous, using natural elements like flowers and fruits alongside dark, reflective materials to bring contrast and elegance," she says.
Like her Christmas décor, this New Year's look can be easily achieved with pieces sourced from the same affordable retailers. Aram estimates the setup to take between one and two hours, which is an easy project for those looking to add a bit of glamour without the hassle to their holiday celebrations.
Holiday Mocktail
No holiday is complete without good food and drinks. Here, Aram shares her recipe for a perfect New Year's mocktail with seasonal fruits that can be served alongside wine and champagne.
• Combine ½ cups of pomegranate juice, ½ cups of ginger beer, and 2 ½ tablespoons of freshly squeezed lime juice.
• Garnish with mint leaves, lime slices, and ice cubes containing pomegranate arils.
• Stir the ingredients together, add the ice, and garnish with the mint leaves and slice of lime for a fresh, colorful drink that's delicious and beautiful.
For more style and décor inspiration, visit www.instagram.com/ lovelymomentsplanning/
Holiday mocktail with pomegranate.
MAKING SPIRITS BRIGHT
Each Christmas season, City Lifestyle gifts a signi ficant amount to those who could use a little extra suppor t. But we need your help to find them. Do you know someone facing tough times? Your nomination could make all the difference. Scan the QR code to nominate.
NOMIN A T I O N S OPEN NOV. 27 DEC. 10 thru
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON
LOOKING FOR INTERESTING, HANDY, HELPFUL, MEMORABLE PRESENTS?
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE
Finding ‘perfect’ holiday gifts for everyone can be daunting. This year’s Walnut Creek City Lifestyle gift suggestions make that undertaking easier, unique, practical, and thoughtful.
Sculptology co-founders Lauren Morgan, a certified CoolSculpting master, and Alejandro Arnez, M.D., state that
Shoppers may buy a gift card for $575 either online or in-store; however, Anna reveals that anyone who buys the card in-store will also receive a gift with purchase.
925.448.2222
Locations.WoodhouseSpas.com/dir/ CA/Walnut-Creek
EXPERIENCE THE JOY OF GIVING WITH LOCALLY SOURCED, HEARTFELT GIFTS.
their medical team in Lafayette assists individuals with enhancing their self-esteem, health, and wellness via body, skin, and wellness therapies. According to the Allergan Performance Report, the team is the top-ranked CoolSculpting Elite provider in California and No. 2 in the United States. Sculptology professionals offer complimentary consultations to potential clients. For the holidays, Lauren says they offer $400 off CoolSculpting treatments (while supplies last).
925.329.6333
Sculptology.com
Snag one-of-a-kind gifts at Woodhouse Spa in Walnut Creek with a gift card for a customized spa day. Anna Kaufman, spa director of Woodhouse Spa-Walnut Creek, says the spa’s experts furnish award-winning services to leave guests feeling relaxed and rejuvenated through therapeutic massages, advanced skincare, HydraFacials, and signature services, such as calming retreats. This team offers their 'Holiday Retreat Package' consisting of an 80-minute tranquil stone massage and a 50-minute HydraFacial for $575.
Present someone special with an exceptional dining experience where the passion of Italy meets the elegance of France at La Fontaine restaurant and bar. Led by Executive Chef Hasan Yildiz, the staff also caters to corporate and social events. A gift card of up to $500 can be secured.
925.705.7019
LaFontaineRestaurant.com/ Walnut-Creek-Home
Amela Hozic, M.D., founder of ÉLLEVI Medical Center for Aesthetics, meticulously balances cosmetic procedures and comprehensive techniques to achieve full-face, holistic harmony that's personalized for each client. Professionals at this med spa in San Ramon assist with wrinkle-relaxing treatments, dermal fillers, microneedling, Sculptra treatments, chemical peels, and ÉLLEVI signature facials. Dr. Amela is offering $500 worth of services on a $400 gift card, along with a ZO skincare set.
925.359.5218
ElleviBeauty.com
Secure sparkling smiles or complete smile makeovers for the holidays and the New Year at Coliseum Dental in Walnut Creek. Jeff Erickson, D.D.S., says he and his team offer personalized dental care and a holiday special of $100 off the $550 fee for Zoom in-office whitening.
925.939.4989
ColiseumDentalwc.com
Salon Hanover is celebrated by everyone who appreciates beauty and style. Get $50 off a full highlight service with participating stylists and look glamorous this holiday season. Founder Krystal Pohl-Kerkezian says they also offer a full range of skin care services and body sculpting in addition to their luxury hair services.
925.322.8266
SalonHanover.com
The Citrine Cleaning crew, based in Walnut Creek, cleans homes with nontoxic approaches and eco-friendly products. The name “Citrine” symbolizes the radiant transformation they bring to living spaces that remain safe for children and pets. Citrine is offering 15% off a client’s first, one-time cleaning. You can also get 30% off your first clean when booking a recurring cleaning service (available weekly, bi-weekly, and monthly).
925.307.9943
CitrineCleanCo.com
Why not give the gift of a fun photo session that results in lasting images to cherish for a lifetime? Just head to Aika Cardin Photography Studio, conveniently located in downtown Walnut Creek. As an award-winning portrait photographer, Aika specializes in maternity, newborn, baby’s first year, children, women, and family portraits. She also enjoys capturing headshots for business professionals or models.
978.239.6528
AikaCardin.com
Woodhouse Spa offers a 'Holiday Retreat Package.''
Get your family portrait done this holiday!
(Photo by Aika Cardin Photography Studio)
EXPLORE UNIQUE ARTISAN SHOPS FOR ONE-OF-A-KIND GIFTS:
• Portal Artesanal (traditional, modern, and handmade items based in Mexican culture and folklore): 3091 N. Main St., Walnut Creek
• JBJ by Jill (fine, statement jewelry): 1375 Locust St., Ste. 208, Walnut Creek
• Vintage Vida (home goods, furniture, eclectic décor, art, vinyl records, clothing, gifts): 3581 Mount Diablo Blvd., Lafayette
• SIP Goods Pop Up (joyful living boutique items, organic cotton home and fashion textiles, herbal culinary choices, spa products): 1372 N. Main St., Walnut Creek
• Wardrobe Boutique (authentic Turkish clothing, accessories, bags, shoes): 1341 N. Main St., Ste. G, Walnut Creek
• The Makers Mercantile (art boutique, handcrafted goods, greeting cards, paintings, screened T-shirts, dish towels, wreaths, curated gifts by local artists, workshops): 1208 Boulevard Way, Walnut Creek
SHOP LOCAL, WOMEN-OWNED ONLINE BOUTIQUES :
• Orange Blossom Design (home décor): OrangeBlossomDesignCA.com
• Alan A'rion Skincare and Body Sculpting: AlanArionSkin.com
• Dao Ceramics: DaoCeramics.square.site/s/shop
DO YOU HAVE CHILDREN OR YOUTHS ON HOLIDAY LISTS? PERHAPS CONSIDER 'THE 5 GIFT RULE' PREMISES:
1. Something they want.
2. Something they need.
3. Something to wear.
4. Something to read.
5. A special gift.
Retail sources indicate that some of this year's most popular items for teens include Bluetooth charging speakers, temporary tattoo markers, retro sunglasses, gel-cream skin care moisturizers, digital instant cameras, heatless curling sets, beaded choker necklaces, small LED mirrors, portable inkless printers, and screen magnifiers for smartphones.
La Fontaine restaurant and bar has gift cards.
Photo by Aika Cardin
Photo courtesy of Sculptology
Holiday Spirit in Action
Meet Community Heroes Making a Difference All Year Long
ARTICLE BY LINDSEY HICKMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
As the holiday season approaches, the spirit of giving comes alive. Communities come together through acts of kindness, donations, and volunteering to spread joy and warmth. Here are some programs that are changing the lives of others all year long.
FIREFIGHTERS ASSEMBLE CHRISTMAS JOY
When you think about first responders, most think of the brave individuals who show up when you call 911. However, the act of serving is deeply ingrained in their hearts, giving far beyond their scheduled shifts. Each year, the United Professional Firefighters of Contra Costa County, Local 1230 members, donate money and time to benefit many charities in the area. One program started more than 20 years ago at a fire station, but it has now grown to what Captain Chris Toler calls a year-round operation to deliver hundreds of new bikes to kids.
Each year, the Bikes for Tykes team hosts fundraising events throughout the county to raise money to purchase new bicycles. They connect with non-profits, shelters, and community programs to deliver new rides to underserved youth.
“We fundraise all year,” says Toler, Local 1230 Vice President and charity coordinator.
“Along with setting up booths at just about any community event we can, we host a golf tournament, participate in the Walnut Creek Walnut Festival, Lafayette Art & Wine Festival, and partner with St. Francis of Assisi for a build-a-bike fundraiser.”
Toler’s team then works with local businesses to get discounted bulk pricing to purchase the bikes.
The whole year’s efforts culminate a couple of weeks before Christmas when bikes are delivered to fire stations, where firefighters assemble them for delivery.
“All of our work is done via word of mouth,” says Toler.
To contribute, visit Contracostafirefighters.org/ supported-charities
UNLEASHING HOLIDAY HAPPINESS
Joybound People & Pets (formerly ARF) has spent three decades transforming lives, one wagging tail and purring bundle of joy at a time. With more than 51,000 adoptions, this renowned organization has purr-fected the art of creating lasting connections by nurturing the bond that forms when pets and their people come together.
The magic lies in their multifaceted approach to animal wellness, going far beyond the typical rescue and adoption model. They are dedicated to human-animal connection through diverse programs, including training, veterinary, supply assistance for pet owners in need, therapy and service-animal programs, and even a grooming academy that equips students while providing affordable grooming for the community.
This holiday season, their wish list is simple: love, joy, and the chance to change a life. Every dollar donated supports programs like the FoodShare pantry, where they supply pet food to help keep pets fed and with their families.
Visitors are invited to 2890 Mitchell Drive seven days a week, from 12:00-6:00 p.m., to meet remarkable companion animals ready to find new homes, browse the holiday boutique for unique pet gifts, and explore the Giving Tree.
Photo by Alain McLaughlin
Photo courtesy of Joybound People & Pets
GROWING HOPE
With 1 in 36 children diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder annually, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and 1.4 million children set to age out of existing programs in the coming years, families are increasingly anxious about their futures.
Walnut Creek natives Pamela Hale Mitchel and Jeanine Stanley were so passionate about providing essential services for these families that they created B Walker Ranch, now with a rooted expansion into Suisun Valley. Pamela has witnessed families struggling across the community. Her personal connection to the issue is profound, growing up with a special-needs brother who’s now 61. In 2010, she and Jeanine recognized the gap in support for individuals with autism once they turn 22 and age out of programs.
B Walker Ranch aims to empower adults with autism to learn new skills—to plant a seed, watch it grow, and harvest a sense of purpose while giving their caretakers a sense of security, knowing they are safe and cared for. With animals, farming, art, and occupational therapy, the ranch provides space for members to gain meaning and purpose in their lives.
Visit Bwalkerranch.org for information or to donate, and join them in December for the Suisun Valley Tractor Crawl.
Suisun Valley Tractor Crawl.
COMMUNITY CONCERN FOR CATS (CC4C)
Cat overpopulation is a huge problem in the United States, and Contra Costa County is no exception. Feline overpopulation can bring a host of problems, as these feral cats face harsh living conditions. If left unchecked, their number can grow rapidly. Realizing this, a non-profit called Community Concern for Cats, also known as CC4C has been helping to lessen the suffering of these furry animals since 1986.
Over the decades, CC4C has touched the lives of over 50,000 cats. In 2023, they adopted out nearly 1,200 kitties and spayed or neutered over 2,300— all while solely relying on volunteers. Recently, CC4C tackled a cat colony with over 80 felines right here in Walnut Creek, providing them with the help they needed. Funding for CC4C's programs comes from their Rescued Treasures thrift store on Newell Avenue, adoption fees, and donations. Every dollar goes directly towards reducing the homeless cat population.
Lori Chang, who has been volunteering with CC4C for four years, says the organization has received more calls about abandoned cats, kittens, and feline colonies this year than in previous years.
"The need has grown, and medical costs have risen, but our resources remain limited," says Lori.
Lori says there is a common misconception that cats can live on their own out in the wild. The truth is, they can't.
"We need people in the community who are willing to provide food and shelter. The next step is using local resources to ensure the cats are spayed and neutered so the overpopulation cycle doesn't continue. At the end of the day, these cats are homeless at no fault of their own," says Lori.
Fortunately, there are many ways to help CC4C achieve its mission of ending feline homelessness. This holiday season, consider supporting CC4C by donating, fostering, shopping for holiday decorations at their thrift store, or adopting a furry friend! You can adopt the furry cats at either one of their three adoption sites—situated in Walnut Creek and Martinez. For more information on CC4C, visit Communityconcernforcats.org
ARTICLE BY COLE CRONK PHOTOGRAPHY BY LORI CHANG
Making a Pawsitive Impact on Contra Costa Cats
“Over the decades, CC4C has touched the lives of over 50,000 cats.”
Making Spirits
JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”
As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.
Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.
One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.
Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.
These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just
about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”
Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”
We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.
To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.
The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.com
Holiday Entertaining Boards
The holidays are here and entertaining is in full swing. If you are looking for the perfect appetizer to easily feed a crowd these simple and beautiful boards are sure to please.
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Tips for creating the perfect board:
• Start with the larger items first and build around those. If you are using jars on the board, place those first.
• Be sure to have enough to fill the space. It is best to overfill so that the board doesn’t look sparse. Stack, stack and stack some more.
• Use a variety of colors and textures when choosing the foods you want to use. Pick cheese with color and patterns, fruits and veggies that come in a variety of textures and colors and a protein that can make a statement.
• Be sure to place similar colors in away from each other to help give symmetry.
Holiday Wreath Charcuterie Board
• Fig Jelly
• Honey
• Variety of Cheeses
• Salami or meat of choice
• Olives (provide a variety)
• Walnuts, Pecans, Pistachios and any favorite nut
• Grapes, berries, persimmon
• Crackers
Place the jars of sauces and olives on the board first. Next place the cheeses on opposing sides. Add meats and fruits next. Layer in crackers, nuts and seeds and fill in any spots with extra nuts. Use fresh rosemary or fresh greenery to add wreath accent in the center of the charcuterie board. Garnish with fresh cranberries.
DECEMBER
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
DECEMBER 1ST
The Holiday Faire
Shadelands Ranch Museum, 2660 Ygnacio Valley Rd, Walnut Creek | 10:00 AM
The Holiday Faire has been a seasonal tradition at Shadelands Ranch since the 80s. During this event, which runs until December 15, the house is overflowing with beautiful handcrafted items and gifts of every description offered by dozens of vendors. Admission and parking are free.
DECEMBER 5TH
Holiday Parade of Lights & Tree Lighting
Throughout Broadway Plaza | 6:00 PM
Get ready for an evening of excitement as a festive parade ushers in the holiday season with fun and entertainment for all! The Parade of Lights is the centerpiece of Broadway Plaza’s holiday kickoff celebration. It features lively music, dazzling performances, and a magical tree-lighting ceremony led by Santa Claus!
DECEMBER 7TH
38th Annual Teddy Bear Tea
The Gardens At Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Dr, Walnut Creek 10:30 AM
Join the wonderland tea party, where bears of all shapes and sizes share in the joys of the season with you and your family. There will be story time, a tea buffet, magical fairies, and more, catered to children ages three to nine. This is a two-day event happening on Dec. 7 and 8.
The Gift That Keeps on Giving
DECEMBER 10TH
Live! From the Library Oak View Room, Walnut Creek Library | 7:00 PM
The Walnut Creek Library Foundation welcomes local jazz trio Charged Particles back to the Library for an evening of classic sounds and new music. Reserve your seat soon, as this program will fill up quickly!
DECEMBER 12TH
Christmas Carol
Lesher Center for the Arts 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek | 7:30 PM
Watch this classic play by Charles Dickens on stage, directed by Scott Denison. Brimming with carols, music, dance, spectacular special effects, and a multigenerational cast, presented by the Center Repertory Company’s annual production, which has been hailed by critics and audiences alike as “THE Christmas Carol to see in the Bay Area!”. The show runs till December 22.
DECEMBER 21ST
Outdoor Market
Broadway Plaza Street - the Street between Nordstrom & Macy’s 11:00 AM
Enjoy live music, great food, and incredible products from local makers. Shop small and support your community! Shop products such as jewelry, organic body, home goods, apparel, glass, holiday candles, local honey, and more made locally. It’s a great place to shop for gifts for your loved ones!
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