We’re riding, skating, lighting, and drumming our way through the weekend.
Golden Gate Express Model Train Exhibit
Take a miniaturized tour of San Francisco as tiny trains wend their way through San Francisco landmarks like Coit Tower and Chinatown’s dragon gates, set amongst the Conservatory of Flowers.
When: Tue.-Sun. beginning Thu., 11/20 and running through 4/19/09; 9am-4:30pm; Age 2+; Free-$5.
Where: Conservatory of Flowers, JFK Drive (at Conservatory Drive) in Golden Gate Park, San Francisco; 415-666-7001, conservatoryofflowers.org.
Reindeer Romp and Ice Skating
A third ice rink opens in San Francisco for the holidays, and at this special skating party kids can meet reindeer and watch animals enjoying holiday treats.
When: Daily beginning Sat., 11/22 through 12/31, 11am-5pm; Age 3+; $12-25 (skate rental is an additional fee).
Where: San Francisco Zoo, Great Highway (between Sloat and Skyline), San Francisco, 415-753-8124, sfzoo.org.
Holiday Tree Lighting Party
Watch the big Pier 39 tree come to life at this celebration with Christmas-, Hanukkah- and Kwanzaa-related song and dance. Santa will be around for photos and requests, and kids can get their face painted and make holiday crafts.
When: Sun., 11/23, 1-6pm (tree-lighting is at 5:30pm); All ages; Free.
Where: Pier 39, Beach Street (at Embarcadero), San Francisco, 415-705-5500, pier39.com.
International Taiko Festival
Kids love to hear the thundering drums pound and boom. The Sunday afternoon concert is a good choice for smaller kids.
When: Sat., 11/22, 7pm; Sun., 11/23, 3pm; Age 2+; $38-49.
Where: Zellerbach Hall, Bancroft Avenue (at Dana Street) on the UC Berkeley campus, Berkeley, 415-928-2456, tickets.berkeley.edu.