Explore holiday traditions in the Tri-Valley area from parades to lights
Holiday season is upon us, and a trip to Northern California’s Tri-Valley area is a great way to embrace the season. Visitors from around the globe and from nearby in the San Francisco Bay Area all come to the region to enjoy a range of holiday traditions. The Tri-Valley also provides a scenic backdrop to explore local wineries, enjoy high-quality cuisine, and shop at unique stores.
While you’re here in Pleasanton we invite you to reserve a room at The Rose Hotel, where visitors are within walking distance of multiple dining and shopping choices. If you’re a local, stop by the Lobby Bar for a nightcap, and soak in our seasonal décor. During your stay, the Tri-Valley has a great variety of events to choose from. Here are some of the most exciting happenings in November and early December 2024 to explore during your stay.
Out of this world
Cosmic Odyssey: Immersive Encounters with the Universe brings attendees a new view of outer space at Livermore’s Bankhead Theater. Taking place on a variety of days at times from 4 to 8 p.m. through Nov. 27, the show is a 360-degree projection of footage from space that brings galaxies, stars and more to life with narration from a former NASA astronaut.
The experience lasts 45 minutes, after which a discussion with scientists is available for audience members to ask questions and gain a deeper understanding of what they’ve just experienced. On certain days and times, the Tri-Valley Stargazers will have telescopes available for moon viewing to enhance the experience. Tickets are $15 to $30 and available on the Bankhead website.
Wine and song
No trip to the Tri-Valley is complete without trying the local wine the region is famous for. Las Positas Vineyards in Livermore hosts Evenings in the Vineyards live music performances every Friday and Saturday through Nov. 30, as well as a Saturday performance on Dec. 7.
All events take place from 6 to 8:30 p.m. and make great opportunities to enjoy a glass of NorCal’s fine wine, tapas and dessert while taking in a musical act. Tickets cost $5 per person and are available on the Las Positas website, with all food and drinks purchased separately.
Laughing with John Cleese
If laughter is your speed, see a legendary performer at A Conversation with John Cleese on Nov. 17 at 7 p.m. at the Bankhead Theater. Known for his role in the U.K.’s Monty Python group, Cleese’s wordplay and comedic talent are sure to leave guests humorously entertained.
Tickets are available online for $105 to $135, or if sold out online for this high-demand event, we suggest calling the box office at (925) 373-6800 to inquire about availability.
Natural beauty
For a mesmerizing combination of science and art, Inside Wonderlab: Anand Varma Explores Nature’s Mysteries provides a stunning photographic experience for viewers. Taking place on Nov. 21 from 7 to 9 p.m. at Danville’s Blackhawk Museum, Anand Varma, who runs the WonderLab in Berkeley, will display photos that use a distinctive style of techniques to capture processes in nature.
Attendees will see nature in a new way, experiencing sights such as a hummingbird’s rapid wing movements. Tickets are $30 to $40 and available at the Blackhawk Museum website.
Calling all gadget lovers
History buffs can explore how America has changed over time at the Gadgets Galore! exhibit at Pleasanton’s Museum on Main. The exhibit, which is available for viewing during the museum’s operating hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday to Saturday through Jan. 11, 2025, has appliances such as phones and washing machines on display to show how U.S. household life has evolved over time.
Admission to the museum is free, though donations are encouraged.
Lighting of the Old Oak Tree
If you’re looking for an alternative to shopping or a way to enjoy some holiday festivities afterward on Black Friday, the Lighting of the Old Oak Tree at Diablo Road and downtown Danville is the place to be. Taking place Friday, Nov. 29 from 5:15 to 8 p.m., the event will feature appearances from Santa and a snow angel, a tree lighting at 6:15 p.m. and performances of holiday classics by local youth singers.
Following the lighting, businesses in the area will host open houses featuring food and drinks, entertainment, and discounts.
Home for the holidays
Celebrate the holidays Pleasanton-style with the town’s Hometown Holiday Celebration at 5 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 7. A parade with floats, marching bands and community groups starts the event on downtown Pleasanton’s Main Street.
Following the parade, a tree lighting ceremony with music and an appearance by Santa takes place at 6:45 p.m. This beloved tradition is fun for the whole family, and a great way to get into the holiday spirit.
As part of the weekend’s magic there will be holiday chill and cheer on Dec. 7 in Pleasanton with the Magical Holiday Evening on downtown Pleasanton’s Main Street. The time hasn’t been announced yet for this event, so keep an on the event page for one to be finalized.
Attendees will experience an exciting combination of live Christmas music, shopping specials, food and photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus at the Museum on Main. This event is free.
Top Spots for Christmas Light Displays
No matter what day you’re visiting the Tri-Valley, there are plenty of holiday lights to see. Gaze upon some of the best ones by taking a driving tour of to see Visit Tri-Valley’s Top Spots for Christmas Light Displays featuring the shiniest homes in the region.
The list includes dazzling displays of twinkling lights in Livermore, Pleasanton, Danville, and Dublin that are sure to mesmerize. Information on each location is listed in the link.
When you’re done exploring all that Pleasanton has to offer, the Rose Hotel is ready for you to rest, relax and recharge for the next day. Our intimate, cozy setting emphasizes quality over quantity, so we have limited availability.
Reach us by emailing [email protected], 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.
