Do some last minute shopping, grab a paintbrush, celebrate Solstice, watch a classic holiday film
Time is ticking, but we still have one more weekend to soak up all the holiday cheer that Alameda has to offer. On Friday, December 19, relax with a paint and sip night at Almanac. On Saturday, December 20, Faction Brewing welcomes shoppers to stop by for a pint and some retail therapy at their Winter Market. The same day, support more small businesses and local shops with a special Holiday Edition of Saturday @ the Avenue at Alameda Avenue and Park Street. Back at Faction Brewing on Saturday evening, catch a holiday double feature including It’s a Wonderful Life and Santa and the Fairy Snow Queen. If you’re looking for something even more relaxing, check out The Hearth of Winter: A Solstice Sound Bath Ceremony at Breathing Room Alameda on Saturday evening.
Snowy Cottage Paint and Sip Night
Friday, December 19
It’s not too late to spend a couple hours on a cozy holiday craft. Join Dream Maker Art Party for their Snowy Cottage Paint and Sip Night on Friday, December 19, at Almanac Adventureland & Brewery, 651B West Tower Avenue. The class runs from 6:30 until 8:30 p.m.
While you’re painting, sip on an Almanac signature brew, non-alcoholic beverage, wine, cider, or seasonal specialty drink like hot mulled wine. Instructors will guide participants to create a charming snowy cottage scene. All materials are provided, and beginners are welcome.
Reserve your spot online. Tickets are $45 and include one drink. The event will be indoors, and all ages are welcome.
Faction Brewing Winter Market
Saturday, December 20
Enjoy a craft beer while you do some holiday shopping at the Faction Brewing Winter Market on Saturday, December 20. Visit the waterfront brewery at 2501 Monarch Street from 1 until 6 p.m. to grab a drink, enjoy the view, and shop local small businesses.
Over 35 vendors are scheduled to attend the event, selling everything from handcrafted jewelry to delicious baked goods. Check out Lobster Tee for quirky, original t-shirts, shop Mochi’s Market for beautiful press on nails, and find charming handmade clay pins at Zaylia Boutique. You’ll probably want to find a gift for yourself while you’re at it!
This free-to-attend event is organized by Alternative Entertainment LLC and sponsored by AT&T.
Saturday @ The Avenue: Holiday Edition
Saturday, December 20
Downtown Alameda has a special treat in store for last-minute holiday shoppers. Alameda Avenue is transforming into a cozy family-friendly market from 1 until 5 p.m. on Saturday, December 20. The market will take place in the area in front of Taqueria Mi Burrito, 2321 Alameda Avenue.
Enjoy live music by vocalist and guitarist Bill Wolosky while you shop a collection of 12 local and small businesses at the pop-up market. Pick out a cute card or sticker with Bring Aloha, shop personal care products with J&J Nature Touch and Selfcare, and stop by Island Bait & Tackle booth to see what the family-run commercial fishing company has to offer.
While you’re on Alameda Avenue, grab lunch at Taqueria Mi Burrito, play a few lawn games, and enjoy the Christmas shopping hubbub. Stop into the Alameda Museum from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. for a free look at local history, and take a walk down Park Street to check off your gift list.
Double Feature Holiday Movie Night at Faction
Saturday, December 20
Get ready for a holiday double-feature at Faction Brewing, 2501 Monarch Street, on Saturday, December 20. Be sure to be there early to grab a drink from the bar and some food from Califia Taqueria before the 7 p.m. start time.
The evening will begin with Santa and the Fairy Snow Queen, a little-known short film from the 1950s. “This one is OUT THERE,” states the event description. “…but Rifftrax (the folks who brought you Mystery Science Theater) makes it funny!” After a trip down the rabbit hole, viewers will be rewarded with a comforting classic, Frank Capra’s It’s a Wonderful Life.
Entry to this event is free. Faction Brewing will host the movies in their hangar space off of the main bar area. Santa and the Fairy Snow Queen is 25 minutes and considered TV-G by Apple TV. It’s a Wonderful Life is rated PG and runs for 2 hours and 9 minutes.
The Hearth of Winter: A Solstice Sound Bath Ceremony
Saturday, December 20
In the midst of the holiday hustle and bustle, take a moment to relax and reconnect with The Hearth of Winter: A Solstice Sound Bath Ceremony at Breathing Room Alameda, 1708 Lincoln Avenue. The session is scheduled from 7 until 9 p.m.
This special event marks winter solstice, the longest night of the year before the days begin to lengthen again. The peaceful evening is designed to help participants calm their nervous system, create a sense of harmony, and prepare for the coming season. Singing bowls, gongs, chimes, and soothing vocals will set the tone for the evening.
Attendees are invited to bring pillows, blankets, and personal items to “create a familiar cocoon” for the session. Rental mats are available as well. Tickets are $45.
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Amanda Laird is the Content Manager and Events Editor of the Alameda Post. Her writing is collected at AlamedaPost.com/Amanda-Laird. Reach her at [email protected].
