Slow Days, Warm Hearts.
A cozy roundup for the quiet week before Thanksgiving.
Hi parents,
School’s almost out, work is winding down, and whether you’re traveling or staying close to home, there’s something grounding about this in‑between week. It invites a slower rhythm - more time in PJs, extra stories, longer walks, and maybe one or two spontaneous outings before the big holiday swirl begins.
This week’s guide has cozy happenings around the Bay, a couple of festive markets, and a roundup of Thanksgiving break camps for those of you juggling work while the kids are off.
🍁 Pocket Practice: Thankful Notes or a Gratitude Jar
A simple way to pause with your kids this week: each day, write down one thing you’re grateful for and add it to a jar or tape it to the wall. You can use colored paper, notecards, or sticky notes - whatever you have. By the time Thanksgiving arrives, you’ll have a colorful reminder of the small joys.
If you’re traveling, bring a small notebook for the family to write one gratitude each day and read it to each other at Thanksgiving dinner.
Seasonal Happenings
Great Dickens Christmas Fair
5 Weekends, Nov 22–Dec 21 | 10:00 AM–6:00 PM | 📍 Cow Palace, Daly City
4 acres of the historic Cow Palace exhibition halls are magically transformed into the winding lanes and bustling playhouses of Victorian London! Immerse yourself in a world of theatres, pubs, dance parties, and charming shops.
All ages | $18–$45 | Event Info
Zoppé Italian Family Circus
Nov 1–30 | Various show times | 📍 Redwood City
A beloved annual circus with acrobats, clowns, and Old‑World Italian traditions. Tickets often sell out, so booking ahead is a good idea.
All ages | ~$12–$30 | Tickets
San Mateo on Ice
Nov 14–Jan 11 | 10:00 AM–10:00 PM | 📍 San Mateo (Central Park)
Outdoor rink with lights, music, and rental aids for new skaters.
All ages | ~$19 | More Info
Cirque du Soleil: ECHO
Nov 20–Jan 18 | Various show times | 📍 Oracle Park, San Francisco
A new eco-futuristic show full of color, acrobatics, and imagination. FUTURE, the protagonist, invites you into a fantasy world where she meets animal and human characters.
Best for ages 5+ | More Info
Holidays at Filoli
Nov 22–Jan 11 | Various show times | 📍 Woodside
Filoli is offering an unforgettable holiday season with three enchanting experiences. During the day, take a Gilded journey through the elegantly decorated House and Garden and explore Thistlewyck, an enchanting village in the Redwoods. At night, immerse yourself in the glowing wonder of Holiday Lights.
All ages | $45 per adult, $35 per child | More Info
Last Chance: Stage Magic!
Annie – Palo Alto Players (Final Weekend!)
Nov 20–23 | 📍 Lucie Stern Theatre, Palo Alto
The heartwarming Broadway classic with a special Relaxed Performance for young audiences. Follow the adventures of little orphan Annie as she escapes the cruel Miss Hannigan’s orphanage, searches for her parents, and finds an unexpected friendship.
Ages 4+ | $20–$63 | Tickets
The Sound of Music – Pied Piper Players
Nov 22 @ 7:00 PM & Nov 23 @ 2:00 PM | 📍 San Mateo (Bayside Performing Arts Center)
Final weekend of this timeless musical featuring local talent and lots of heart. Join the Pied Piper Players for a heartwarming performance of the beloved Rodgers & Hammerstein classic, filled with timeless songs and family spirit.
All ages | $15–$30 | Tickets
Friday, November 21
Tree Lighting & Santa’s Arrival
6:00–7:00 PM | 📍 Hillsdale Shopping Center, San Mateo
Delve into the magical world of “The Nutcracker” ballet plus Santa’s arrival. Hosted by the SF Youth Ballet. North Block.
All ages | Free | Event Details
Saturday, November 22
Art on the Square – Holiday Show
10:00 AM–4:00 PM | 📍 Redwood City (History Museum)
Local makers, blues music, and a beautiful indoor setting — a cozy way to enjoy holiday shopping inside the stunning San Mateo County History Museum. Whether you’re looking for stocking stuffers or a little splurge, you’ll likely find something special.
All ages | Free | Event Info
Belmont Holiday Craft Faire
10:00 AM–4:00 PM | 📍 Twin Pines Park, Belmont
70+ vendors with handmade gifts and ornaments, the annual Holiday Craft faire returns to Twin Pines Park. Parking is limited; please walk, carpool, or use public transportation if possible.
All ages | Free | Event Details
Rock the Dock: Pure Ecstasy Band
2:30–5:00 PM | 📍 Port of Redwood City
Motown hits by the water, with food trucks, dancing, and an easygoing waterfront vibe.
All ages | Free | Event Info
Sunday, November 23
Native American Drumming and Dance
2:00–3:00 PM | 📍 Foster City Library
Experience the rhythm of traditional drumming and dance in this engaging cultural presentation by local Urban Indian performers. A beautiful way to introduce kids to Native culture.
All ages | Free | Event Info
Burlingame Farmers’ Market
9:00 AM–1:00 PM | 📍 Downtown Burlingame
Fresh produce, pastries, and musical entertainment - an easy Sunday stop if you’re already out and about.
All ages | Free | Market Info
Thanksgiving Break Camps
I get it - while the kids are off, work doesn’t always stop. If you’re looking for coverage or just a little creative energy for your little ones, here are a few camps taking registrations:
Tech Rocks Camp | Ages 7–14 | Register
LEGO Fall Camp (Kidizens, Los Altos) | Ages 5–11 | Register
Basketball Camp (Legarza Sports) | Ages 5–14 | Register
Create, Mix & Mingle Art Camp | Ages 6–13 | Register
Bay Area Kids Camp – Hummingbird Kids Camp | Ages 5–11 | Register
Steve & Kate’s November Break Camp | Ages 4–12 | Register
🎨 Featured: Makers & Minis - A Cozy “Crafternoon” for Kids & Parents
Trying something new this season! I’ve been dreaming of creating a little space where kids and their grown‑ups can slow down, make something together, and reconnect through creativity.
Our first sessions focus on holiday keepsakes - handmade clay ornaments and glowing tissue‑paper lanterns, simple projects that feel extra magical this time of year.
📅 Nov 30 (2 spots left) & Dec 7 | 📍 Burlingame
Ages 4–8 | $45 per child (grown-up included) | Sign Up Here
The mess stays back; the memories go home with you.
💛 Until next time
Wishing you warmth, calm moments, and easy rhythms as we head into Thanksgiving. If this guide helped, feel free to share it with another parent who might enjoy some local magic.
Akriti