Festivals, Feasts & Fairs

SAN FRANCISCO--Celebrate the holidays as they did in Queen Victoria’s 19th century England at the Great Christmas Fair of Charles Dickens’ London, Saturdays-Sundays through Dec. 31. Costumed characters present entertainment, and traditional foods and handcrafted wares are featured. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. daily at Pier 45, Fisherman’s Wharf. $14.50, general; $13, seniors, students and military; $6.50, kids 5-11; free for those under 5. (415) 897-1832.

NEVADA CITY--Seasonal sights, sounds, tastes and aromas fill the streets of this city’s historic downtown during the Victorian Christmas celebration, 6-9 p.m. Dec. 13 and 20 and 1-5 p.m. Dec. 17. Hay wagon and carriage rides; hot cider and roasted chestnuts; and costumed vendors and musicians are highlights at the free, old-fashioned event. (916) 265-2692.

FERNDALE--Ferndale farmers, ranchers and community groups offer a unique holiday procession on Dec. 16, when the Ferndale Christmas Lighted Tractor Parade makes its way down Main Street. The country-style parade is at 7 p.m. (707) 786-4477.

SAN LUIS OBISPO--Visitors are invited to join local voices at the free Messiah Sing-Along Dec. 17. Handel’s Christmas masterpiece will be sung at 2:30 p.m. at the Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, Monterey and Chorro streets. (805) 781-2777.

NEWPORT BEACH--The Newport Harbor is aglow with seven nights of a maritime light display during the 87th annual Newport Harbor Christmas Boat Parade. More than 150 decorated boats tour the harbor nightly from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Dec. 17-23. There are several viewing locations along the harbor. (800) 94-COAST.

Call listed phone numbers for directions.