Holiday lights to shine throughout California
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SAN FRANCISCO
Embarcadero Center’s Building Lighting ceremony
When, where: Nov. 21, Embarcadero Center.
Highlights: Though this is a 22-year tradition, this time the lights will be eco-friendly. Following the ceremony will be fireworks, a “High School Musical”-themed ice-skating show and a carnival with games and live entertainment. Also, see the illuminated snowflakes on Market Street and Pier 39’s massive tree, lighted by about 2,000 LEDs.
Cost: Free.
Info: www.embarcaderocenter.
DEL MAR
Holiday of Lights
When, where: Nov. 27 to Jan. 4, Del Mar Fairgrounds.
Highlights: Drive a 1 1/2 -mile route to see more than 400 themed holiday-light displays, one of the West Coast’s biggest drive-through lights shows; set to cheery holiday music.
Cost: $14 per car, $19 per car if it holds six or more people, $49 per bus; motorcycles and bicycles not permitted.
Info: (858) 755-1161, www.sdfair.com/holidayoflights
REEDLEY
Electrical Farm Equipment Parade
When, where: Dec. 4, downtown Reedley.
Highlights: The Central Valley town adorns and illuminates more than four dozen agri-vehicles, including vintage tractors, combines and others, then rolls them through town. The event also features holiday activities and food and gifts for sale.
Cost: Free.
Info: (559) 638-5484, www.reedleydowntown.com
PALM SPRINGS
Festival of Lights Parade
When, where: Dec. 6, Palm Canyon Drive.
Highlights: Tens of thousands show up to see this after-dark, holiday-themed parade of lighted floats, marching bands, equestrians, celebrities and interesting cars.
Cost: Free.
Info: (760) 325-5749, www.paradesofpalmsprings.com
VENTURA
Parade of Lights 2008: Holiday FantaSEA at Ventura Harbor
When, where: Dec. 19 and 20, Ventura Harbor.
Highlights: A small armada of boats decked out in Christmas lights and decorations floats through the harbor amid fireworks and live music. Kids get visits with Santa, pony rides, a carousel and photos with holiday characters.
Cost: Free.
Info: (805) 477-0470, www.venturaharborvillage.com
-- Avital Binshtock
