Bridal Faire
Calling all central coast brides for the most Wonderful Winter Wedding Expo with over 65 wedding exhibitors creating a place to shop for all of your wedding and reception needs in one location. Come interview caterers, florists, photographers and more. Grooms are also welcome. Get everything done and walk away with some great prizes on Sunday, Jan. 8 from Noon to 4 p.m. at the Seaside-Monterey Embassy suits on 1441 Canyon Del Rey Blvd. in Monterey. Tickets are $10 at the door or $8 online. Save time and register at eventbrite.com.
Polar Plunge
Suit up then take a deep breath for the Morgan Hill Aquatic Center’s annual Polar Bear Plunge. The water is only a mere 54 degrees and valiant challengers prepare themselves for a slippery slide down into an unheated pool. Participants who brave the chilly waters are awarded commemorative medals for completing the challenge. After the plunge they get to warm up in the heated instructional pool. Come be a Polar Bear on Saturday, Jan. 14 from 11 a.m. to Noon at 16200 Condit Rd, Morgan Hill. Tickets are $10 for participants and $5 for spectators. Learn more at morgan-hill.ca.gov.
Lumination Extended
Don’t miss the final weeks of ‘Lumination: Chinese Culture Celebrated in a Whole New Light,’ Gilroy Garden’s extraordinary light display representing over 2,000 years of Chinese history and culture, shown with brightly lit sculptures of iconic structures such as the Great Wall, the Temple of Heaven, and Terracotta Warriors, each artistically woven into the park’s 26 acres of natural beauty. ‘Lumination’ extended through Jan. 8, 2017. Visit Gilroy Gardens Friday, Saturday or Sunday from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Tickets are $30, or $20 when buying four or more. Parking is $14. Save $5 by buying online. Daytime park admission is $34 online. For additional information go to luminationgilroy.org.
AROMAS
Keith & Dayan
Singer-Songwriters, Keith Greeninger and special guest Dayan Kai return to Aromas for a benefit concert bringing their Americana, California Acoustic Soul to the stage. Both musicians are naturals bonding both music and audience with their classic rhythms and heart-wrenching vocals. Come early for a roasted chicken dinner served with chili, salad and baked potato. Premium beers and wines are also available. Come prepared for a fantastic evening on Sunday, Jan. 22. The doors open at 3:30 p.m. Tickets are $25 for the show and $10 for dinner. Go to brownpaperticket.com.
HOLLISTER
Fundraiser Fun
Nonprofits in Hollister can take advantage of a perfect fundraising opportunity with DeBrito Chocolate and their luscious and decadent caramel apples. DeBrito Chocolate Factory is a local company that stands by its product and community. Get your sales packets, set up orders and at the end of your selling period, bring in your tally sheet and DeBrito will get to work. Then you pick up and deliver and everyone is happy. Your group earns $5 per apple and your customers get a chance to experience something truly different. Visit DeBrito Chocolate Factory at 160 Briggs Rd. in Hollister or call (800) 588-3886. Visit debritochocolate.com.
Poker Run
Hollister Hills Volunteer Patrol presents the Annual Robert Miller Memorial Motorcycle Poker Run supporting youth Motorcycle Safety Foundation classes provided through Hollister Hills Off-Road Association. The event is scheduled for Sunday, Jan. 1 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Hollister Hills SVRA on 7800 Cienega Rd. Park fee is $5 plus a $20 donation for the event. For more information contact Eric Hanson at (831) 636-2069. Visit sanbenitocountychamber.com.
First Day Hike
The public is invited to start the New Year at Hollister Hills SVRA with a moderate 1.5mile hike and explore the wonders of the local wildlife. This family friendly excursion lets kids become wildlife detectives by discovering animal clues along the way. Bring water, a snack and layered clothing. Dogs on leashes are welcome, but terrain is not stroller friendly. Hike the trails on Sunday, Jan. 1 from 10 a.m. to Noon at Hollister Hills SVRA, lower ranch on 7800 Cienega Rd. There is a vehicle fee of $5. Email
mi*************@pa***.gov
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THE VALLEY
Auto Show
Find your dream vehicle at the Silicon Valley Auto Show and experience the future of the automotive world. View, touch, and test-drive over 30 2017 models from Ford, Chevrolet, Toyota and Fiat and discover over 300 new electric, exotic, concept and classic cars. On Jan. 8 someone will be chosen at random to receive the Apple iPhone 7. Gear up and come out on Thursday, Jan. 5 to Sunday Jan. 8 from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. at the San Jose McEnery Convention Center on 150 West San Carlos St. Tickets range from $8 to $11 and are available at svautoshow.com.
Fantasy of Lights
The South Valley has been waiting for Vasona Park’s transformation into a winter wonderland with its annual Fantasy of Lights. Enjoy the magical sights, sounds and flavors of the holidays including, carolers, holiday music and hot cocoa. Bring the kids and visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus. The fantasy begins on Friday, Nov. 25 through Saturday, Dec. 31 for the drive through version, from 6 p.m.-10 p.m. nightly at Vasona Lake County Park, on 333 Blossom Hill Rd. Advanced tickets only. $10 for 13 years and up, $5 ages 4 to 12. Call (408) 355-2201 or visit losgatos.com.
WATSONVILLE
King Tide Walk
Take an early morning walk with Elkhorn Slough Reserve Research Coordinator, Kerstin Wasson and witness the effects of the King Tides, one of the season’s highest tides. King tides are driven by the position of the Earth, Sun and Moon. The gravitational force is greatest when the Earth is closest to the Sun in early January. Bring a camera and help record the effects. No experience needed and free to attend. Dress for all weather and meet at the Visitor Center on Wednesday, Jan. 11 at 8:30 a.m. at 1700 Elkhorn Rd. Visit elkhornslough.org.
