by Kellie Morlock

Horse welcomes visitors at Lemos Farm. Photo courtesy of Deb Wong.

November 2011— Want to do something special on the Coastside this holiday season? Here are a few highlights for celebrating with your loved ones, featuring time-honored traditions as well as some very special events.

Acting the part

With two theater companies and so much talent, the Coastside offers a number of options for the actor in all of us.

Celebrating the culmination of its 25th season, Coastal Repertory Theatre will truly be the Toast of the Coast at its 25th Anniversary Gala “Moroccan Nights” on Nov. 5 at the Oceano Hotel. This unforgettable evening will feature Coastal Rep’s star performers from the past 25 years, musical entertainment, incredible food and many surprises. Next up for Coastal Rep is the holiday classic A Christmas Carol, running Nov. 18-Dec. 17. The Guardian calls this heart-warming classic Victorian tale “a rousing family show, with belly laughs and cheering songs.” For tickets to these Half Moon Bay events, visit Coastal Rep’s website or call 650-569-3266.

For something less traditional, Pacifica Spindrift Players presents Scratch. It runs Nov. 18-27 and performances are free, with donations gratefully accepted. Call for reservations at 650-359-8002, or visit the group’s website.

For those who prefer things unscripted and participatory, Blue Blanket Improv may fit the bill. The group performs the second Saturday of every month at the Wine Bar in the Shoppes at Harbor Village in Princeton Harbor.

Shop and give back

Shopping is definitely part of the holidays, and the Coastside does not disappoint. In addition to the charming stores and modern little malls, there are also opportunities to do good while you work through your gift-giving list.

The historic Johnston House Holiday Emporiumwill feature local merchants offering gifts from years gone by, filled with decorated Christmas trees in every room, unique holiday wreaths, gourmet treats, handcrafted jewelry and arts and crafts. It runs Nov. 5-6 and Nov. 12-13 from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. and is located at 110 Higgins-Purissima Road, Half Moon Bay. Call 650-726-0329 for more information. Tickets are $10 and good for unlimited visits. All sales support the Johnston House preservation.

Crab Boats at the Holidays. Photo courtesy of Deb Wong.

Local non-profit Project Knew Groove hosts its first annual Holiday Gift Fair at Harbor Village on Dec. 3, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Art and craft vendors will line the indoor mall, along with family-friendly music and a visit by Santa. PKG’s purpose is to provide facilities and educational programs for artists of all ages on the San Mateo County Coastside. Call 650-488-8161 or visit the PKG website.

The Coastside Farmers Market offers the best of the late-season harvest in addition to handcrafted soaps, lotions, candies, baked goods, jewelry, pottery and so much more. It runs weekly through Christmas, Wednesdays from 2:30-6:30 p.m. at Rockaway Beach in Pacifica, and Saturdays from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at Shoreline Station in Half Moon Bay.

Lighting the nights

Long winter nights get brighter on the Coastside with these popular holiday traditions. The 12th Annual Night of Lights in downtown Half Moon Bay takes place Friday, Dec. 2. Please see this months post about the annual Night of Lights.

Santa on Main Street. Photo courtesy of MichaelWong.

The 24th Annual Boat Decorating Festival at Pillar Point Harbor is on Saturday, Dec. 10 starting at 6 p.m. This is a special opportunity to tour the harbor, as boat owners go all out in decorating both commercial vessels and leisure crafts. Live music and warm drinks help keep the spirits glowing.

Another tree lighting takes place indoors at the Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay on Dec. 10 at 4:30, along with crowning the winner of the Gingerbread House competition, showcased Dec. 6-10. Call 650-712-7007 for more information. Choir music will accompany Santa along with free hot beverages and cookies.

Magical musical tour

Music makes the holidays more festive, and there are many delightful options to choose from; we’ll focus on this in next month’s magazine.