We're not exactly dashing through the snow to get to this week's arts and nightlife events, but you're welcome to don your gay apparel before heading outside. And check out our roundup of more than a dozen holiday-themed events in dance, theater and music.
ARTS
(Click here for listings of LGBTQ movies, TV series, podcasts and community organizations.)
DANCE, OPERA, THEATER
Ain't Too Proud @ Golden Gate Theatre
'The Life and Times of The Temptations,' the touring company of the hit Broadway musical about the Motown vocal group. $76-$142; thru Dec. 4. 1 Taylor St. https://broadwaysf.com/ (Read our review.)
As You Like It @ SF Playhouse
Shane Taub and Laurie Woolery's new musical adaptation of William Shakespeare's comedy, with a gender-shifting update. $15-$100; rescheduled previews begin Dec. 3, opening night Dec. 9; thru Jan. 14. 450 Post St. https://www.sfplayhouse.org
Billie! Backstage with Lady Day @ Gateway Theatre
Synthia L. Hardy performs her concert/documentary about the life of singer Billie Holiday. $35. Dec. 9-11, 7:30pm. 215 Jackson St. https://www.billiebackstagewithladyday.com/
A Christmas Carol @ Lesher Center for the Arts, Walnut Creek
East Bay production of a musical adaptation of Charles Dickens' short story. Dec. 8-22. 1601 Civic Drive. www.lesherartscenter.org
A Christmas Carol @ Toni Rembe Theater
American Conservatory Theater's lavish adaptation of the Charles Dickens short story, adapted by Carey Perloff and Paul Walsh, returns. $25-$130; thru Dec. 24. 415 Geary St. https://www.act-sf.org/
Circling Sorrows @ CounterPulse
Ariellah and Darker Still Productions' dance performance. Dec. 1-3, 8pm. 80 Turk St. https://counterpulse.org
Cockettes: Eternal Emissions Oakland @ PianoFight Oakland
East Bay performances of the hilarious historic revived bawdy musical review, with composer Scrumbly Koldewyn and many talented acts. $40-$60. Dec. 3 & 4, 7:30pm. 1540 Broadway at 16th, Oakland. www.eventbrite.com
CounterPulse
Dance, drag, theater, performance, comedy, and art as healing in "Try, Hye!" ("Try, Armenian!") is a narrative arc of ARC Performing Diaspora 2022 Resident Artist Vera Hannush/VERA! $20-$35. Dec. 8-10, 15-17, 8pm. 80 Turk St. https://counterpulse.org/
Dear San Francisco @ Club Fugazi
The 'high-flying love story' weaves local history with acrobatic theatrics and live music by The 7 Fingers company, now with new cast members, and a full food and beverage menu, celebrated its one-year residency; extended through 2022, with a special new holiday-themed show. $35-$99. 678 Green St. https://www.clubfugazisf.com/
Disney's Frozen @ Orpheum Theatre
'Let it go!' The hit musical based on the hit animated film (loosely based on the Snow Queen fairy tale; Oscar winner Kristen Anderson-Lopez and EGOT winner Robert Lopez (composers); Oscar winner Jennifer Lee (book), Tony and Olivier Award winner Michael Grandage (director), and Tony winner Rob Ashford (choreographer); thru Dec. 30. $50-$189. 1192 Market St. https://broadwaysf.com (Read our review.)
The Golden Girls Live @ Victoria Theatre
The popular drag performances of holiday episodes of the classic sitcom stars Heklina (Dorothy), Matthew Martin (Blanche), D'Arcy Drollinger (Rose), and Holotta Tymes (Sophia), and Manuel Caneri and Michael Phillis with Tom Shaw on the piano. $35-$65; thru Dec 23. 2961 16th St. https://www.thegoldengirlslive.com/
The Kinsey Sicks' Oy Vey in a Manger @ New Conservatory Theatre Center
The famous (or infamous?) Dragapella® Beautyshop Quartet returns with their classic holiday parody song-filled show. Thursday night preshow holiday crafts fun with Ruby Vixen. $24-$65. Dec. 7-31. 25 Van Ness Ave., lower level. https://www.nctcsf.org
Little Shop of Horrors @ Lucie Stern Theatre, Palo Alto
Alan Menken and Howard Ashman's hit Off-Broadway musical about a people-eating plant is performed by TheatreWorks Silicon Valley, reset in SF's Chinatown. $35-$95; thru Dec. 24. 1305 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto. https://theatreworks.org/
Mark Foehringer's Nutcracker Sweets @ Cowell Theater
14th season of the shortened kid-friendly version of the classic holiday ballet set to the Tchaikovsky score performed by a nine-piece chamber orchestra. $22.50-$44.50. Dec. 3-18. Fort Mason Center, 2 Marina Blvd. https://mfdpsf.org/nutcracker-sweets/
Nava Dance Theatre @ ODC Theater
World premiere of 'Rogue Gestures/Foreign Bodies,' which uses the South Indian classical dance form of Bharatanatyam and experimental movement to examine the labor of South Asian immigrant women who came to the US after the 1965 Immigration and Nationality Act. $20-$35. Dec. 9-11. 3153 17th St. https://odc.dance
Panto in the Presidio's Sleeping Beauty @ Presidio Theatre
Costume-filled music and comedy show blends fairy tales and local humor with cast of talented performers. $10-$40; thru Dec. 30. Presidio Theatre, 99 Moraga Ave. (415) 960-3949 www.presidiotheatre.org (Read our coverage of the show.)
Pierre, Natasha and the Great Comet of 1812 @ Ashby Stage, Berkeley
Shotgun Players' production of Dave Malloy's rousing adaptation of parts of Leo Tolstoy's 'War and Peace.' $30-$62; thru Jan. 15. 1901 Ashby Ave., Berkeley. (510) 841-6500. www.shotgunplayers.org
Remember This: The Lesson of Jan Karski @ Berkeley Rep
Emmy Award winner and Academy Award nominee David Strathairn portrays the Polish World War II hero and Holocaust witness Jan Karski, who risked his life to carry his report of the Warsaw ghetto from war-torn Poland to the Allied Nations and the Oval Office only to be met with inaction and disbelief. $25-$78. Dec 2-18. Peet's Theatre, 2025 Addison St. https://www.berkeleyrep.org
San Francisco Ballet @ War Memorial Opera House
'Nutcracker,' the company's popular ballet about a girl's holiday dream, choreographed by Helgi Tomasson. $25-$359. Dec. 8-27. 301 Van Ness Ave. https://www.sfballet.org/
San Francisco Opera @ War Memorial Opera House
Guiseppe Verdi's classic 'La Traviata' is performed; Dec. 3; also, Christoph Willibald Gluck's stunning new 'Orpheus and Eurydice,' Dec. 1. Adler Fellows concert Dec. 2, 7:30pm at the Herbst Theatre (Read our coverage). SF Opera Chorus Dec. 4, 2pm at Taube Atrium Theater. $26-$364. 301 Van Ness Ave. https://sfopera.com/
Scrooge in Love @ 6th Street Playhouse, Santa Rosa
Duane Poole, Larry Grossman and Kellen Blair's lighthearted musical take on 'A Christmas Carol.' $19-$48; thru Dec. 18. 52 West 6th St. https://6thstreetplayhouse.com/
Smuin Contemporary Ballet
Michael Smuin's 'Christmas Ballet' is performed at various theaters: Dec. 1, Mountain View Center for the Arts. Dec. 9, Sunset Center, Carmel. Dec. 14, YBCA, SF, 700 Howard St. www.smuinballet.org
Solo Shows @ The Marsh
New and return engagements with acclaimed local storyteller/performers. Thru Dec 10: Sharon Eberhart's 'The Mark of the Minotaur,' about archeological mysteries; and, Brian Copeland;'s 'Grandma & Me: an Ode to Single Parents. Don Reed's 'The Never Too Late Show,' thru Dec. 18. $25-$100. 1062 Valencia St., and The Marsh Berkeley, 2061 Allston Way, Berkeley. www.themarsh.org
Sunday in the Park With George @ San Jose Playhouse
Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine's acclaimed musical about painter George Seurat and his grandson, gets a local production. $25-$55; thru Dec. 12. 288 South 2nd St., San Jose. https://sanjoseplayhouse.org
Two Trains Running @ Marin Theatre Company
August Wilson's acclaimed play about a family's struggle to save their diner and the rapid changes in their Pittsburgh neighborhood. $39.50-$43.50; thru Dec. 18. 397 Miller Ave., Mill Valley. http://www.marintheatre.org/
The Velveteen Rabbit @ YBCA
ODC/Dance's popular kid-friendly holiday ballet about a toy rabbit; choreographed by KT Nelson, set to the Benjamin Britten score. $15-$75; thru Dec. 11. 700 Howard St. https://odc.dance/velveteenrabbit
Wuthering Heights @ Berkeley Rep
Director/adapter Emma Rice and composer Ian Ross' acclaimed stage play with music, based on the classic Emily Bronte novel. $25-$99; thru Jan. 1. Roda Theatre, 205 Addison St., Berkeley. https://www.berkeleyrep.org (Read our review.)
LITERARY
LGBT Events @ Fabulosa Books
In-store and online monthly book club group discussion of literary works. Dec. 5, 7pm: author Joshua Teal discusses 'Dance Vision; Dance Through the Eyes of Today's Artists.' Dec. 6, 7pm: Richard Meyer, author of 'Master of Two Left Feet; Morris Hirshfiels Rediscovered,' about the 1940s painter. 489 Castro St. https://www.fabulosabooks.com/
Queer Words
Listen to online literary chats hosted by author Wayne Goodman, with guests Kelliane Parker, Brian Broome, Michael Nava, Vi Khi Nao, Anne Shade, Brontez Purnell, Christopher Castellani, the late Leslie Cohen and many others. https://queerwords.org/
Ron Goldberg, K.M. Soehnlein @ The Green Arcade
Two ACT UP/NY alumni discuss their new books, Goldberg's memoir 'Boy With the Bullhorn: a Memoir and History of ACT UP New York,' and Soehnlein's novel, 'Army of Lovers.' Dec. 1, 6:30pm. 1680 Market St. (Facemasks, please.) https://thegreenarcade.com/
SF Public Library
Online and in-person author events. Also, check out books and DVDs, see various book-themed exhibits. 100 Larkin St. www.sfpl.org
MUSIC
Ashkenaz Music & Dance Community Center
International music and dance concerts. 1317 San Pablo Ave., Berkeley. https://www.ashkenaz.com/
Bobby Conte @ Orinda Theatre
The Broadway actor-singer (the 'Company' revival) and SF native performs classic and contemporary songs. Dec. 4, 5pm. 2 Orinda Theater Square, Orinda. https://www.orindamovies.com/
Cal Performances @ UC Berkeley
Music and dance concerts and more. Bancroft Way at Dana St., Berkeley. calperformances.org
Connie Champagne @ Martuni's
The local singer returns with her wonderful Judy Garland holiday cabaret concert. $40. Dec. 10 & 11, 7pm. 4 Valencia St. (Read our interview.)
Feinstein's at the Nikko
The upscale nightclub presents cabaret concerts. Dec. 8-10: a holiday concert with Linda Eder ($135, 8pm). Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. https://www.feinsteinssf.com/
Freight & Salvage
Music venue presents folk, rock, blues musicians and more. 2020 Addison St, Berkeley. https://thefreight.org/
Great American Music Hall
Enjoy live music at the classic venue. 859 O'Farrell St. https://gamh.com/
Kiki & Herb: Do You Hear What We Hear? @ Curran Theater
Justin Vivian Bond and Kenny Mellman reunite as the darkly hilarious music lounge act in a holiday concert; after-party in the lobby with DJ Juanita MORE! ($35; proceeds benefit Queer LifeSpace). $31-$117. Dec. 9, 7:30pm. 445 Geary St. https://broadwaysf.com (Read our interview with Kenny Mellman.)
The Lost Church
Intimate music and theater venue presents local and touring performers in a variety of styles. 988 Columbus Ave. https://thelostchurch.org/
Noe Music
In-person and online concerts in many genres; classical, folk, early music. 1021 Sanchez St. https://www.noemusic.org/
Noontime Concerts @ Old Saint Mary's Cathedral
Enjoy concerts in a variety of genres, Tuesdays at 12:30pm. 660 California St. www.noontimeconcerts.org
Old First Concerts
Enjoy in-person, live-streamed and archived music concerts of classic, and contemporary music. 1751 Sacramento St. https://www.oldfirstconcerts.org
Queer Vibes
LGBT musicians perform a variety of genres in season 2 of the show, on the LGBT Center's YouTube channel.
San Francisco Bach Choir @ Calvary Presbyterian Church
'Songs of Spirit and Joy,' Dec. 3, 7:30pm, Dec. 4, 4pm. Also, weekly online concerts of classical music and other genres. 2515 Fillmore St. https://sfbach.org/
San Francisco Gay Men's Chorus
"Holiday Spectacular," an all-new holiday show in four venues: December 2 at 8pm, and December 3 at 3:30pm and 8pm at San Francisco's Sydney Goldstein Theater; on December 11 at 7pm at Berkeley's Freight and Salvage; and on December 17 at 5pm at Rohnert Park's Green Music Center. And on December 24 at 5pm, 7pm and 9pm, the chorus will return to the Castro Theatre. www.sfgmc.org (Read our coverage of SFGMC's holiday concerts.)
San Francisco Performances @ Herbst Theatre
Winter season of chamber music, classical and vocal concerts and recitals. Dec. 3, 7:30pm: Spanish Guitar concert with Andrea González Caballero and Grisha Goryachev. $55-$65. 401 Van Ness Ave. http://sfperformances.org/
San Francisco Symphony @ Davies Symphony Hall
In-person and online concerts. 201 Van Ness Ave. http://www.sfsymphony.org/
Seth Concert Series
Seth Rudetsy hosts online live concerts with Broadway and cabaret stars. Dec. 6, 5pm: Claybourne Elder ('Company,' 'The Gilded Age'). $25. http://www.sethrudetsky.com/
SF Jazz
The acclaimed venue brings their concert series online with talented musicians, and has returned to in-person concerts. 201 Franklin St. https://www.sfjazz.org
Sing-Along 'Messiah' @ Lakeside Presbyterian Church
Join in SF City Chorus' participatory performance, with some solos, of the Handel work. $20-$25. Dec. 3, 3pm. 201 Eucalyptus Drive. www.eventbrite.com
Songs of the Season @ Feinstein's at the Nikko
Annual holiday-themed benefit concert for PRC (Positive Resource Center) with cohosts Donna Sachet and Brian Kent, Frenchie Davis, Leanne Borghesi, Sister Roma, Kippy Marks, Russell Deason, and more. $60-$100. Dec. 6 & 7, 8pm. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. prcsf.ejoinme.org
Yoshi's
The elegant nightclub-restaurant features jazz and R&B musicians. 510 Embarcadero West, Oakland. https://yoshis.com
MUSEUMS & GALLERIES
111 Minna Gallery
Downtown gallery exhibits vibrant contemporary artworks. On view: works by Amanda Lynn and Lady Mags. 111 Minna St. 111minnagallery.com
Acion Latina
Community organization sponsors events, and hosts exhibits in its gallery. 2958 24th St. https://accionlatina.org/en/
Angelic/Trimble Gallery
Unusual art exhibits; 1275 Minnesota St. https://www.anglimtrimble.com/
Arion Press Gallery
'Dyslexic Dictionary,' a group exhibit of works by prominent dyslexic artists, designers, and dignitaries, including Gov. Gavin Newsom, Sally Gardner, Gil Gerrshoni and others; thru Dec. 22. 1802 Hayes St., The Presidio. https://gershoni.com/culture/dyslexic-dictionary
ArtHaus
Gallerists James Bacchi and Annette Schutz showcase multiple visual artists. 228 Townsend St. http://www.arthaus-sf.com/main-gallery/
Art Visit
Meet with visual artists in your area at their studios. https://artvisit.org
Art Works Downtown, San Rafael
Exhibits of works by local artists. 1325 4th St., San Rafael. http://artworksdowntown.org/
Asian Art Museum
'Into View: Bernice Bing,' 20 works by the contemporary artist (Read our feature article.) new: 'Kongkee: Warring States Cyberpunk,' a dazzling electronic art installation combining ancient poetry and modern anime; thru Jan 23. 'Carlos Villa: Worlds in Collision,' and 'Seeing Gender,' a selection of works that reveal the complexities and nuances of gender across Asian art. 'Memento: Jayashree Chakravarty' and 'Lam Tung Pang, After Hope: Videos of Resistance,' 'Zheng Chongbin: I Look for the Sky,' and historic works. Fri-Mon 10am-5pm. Thu 1pm-8pm. 200 Larkin St. asianart.org
Berkeley Art Center
Diverse art exhibits. 1275 Walnut St., Berkeleyhttps://www.berkeleyartcenter.org
Berkeley Art Museum/Pacific Film Archive
'Undoing Time,' installations focusing on mass incarceration; thru Dec. 18. Alison Knowles retrospective; thru Dec. 18. 'Quilts, Blankets, and Tapestry: Contemporary Art and Textiles,' 'Ron Nagle: Handsome Drifter, Folk and Modern Art in Postcolonial India' and art films streamed online and screened outdoors (BYO chairs). 2155 Center St., Berkeley. www.bampfa.org
California Academy of Sciences
The fascinating science museum includes live creatures (aquarium, terrarium) and educational exhibits. New; 'Bugs,' a fascinating giant-plants-scale insect-view exhibit. 'Wander Woods,' an outdoor kids and families play space. Also, 'Living Worlds,' a planetarium show. Mon-Sat 9:30am-5pm. Sun 11am-5pm. 55 Music Concourse Drive, Golden Gate Park. https://www.calacademy.org/
California institute of Integral Studies
Art and culture center hosts classes, workshops, exhibits. 'Karla Diaz: While You Were Sleeping,' thru Feb 24; artist's reception Dec. 9, 5pm-8pm. 1453 Mission St. http://www.artsatciis.org/
Cartoon Art Museum
'Edward Gorey's Eerie Art,' thru Feb 12, 2023. Melissa Pagluica's art, part of the Emerging Artist Showcase; also, 'YAy Comics!: Hilo, Phoebe and Her Unicorn, and Friends' thru Feb 20, 2023; 'I Left My Art in San Francisco' thru Jan 22, 2023. Open daily (except Wed.) 11am-5pm. 781 Beach St. www.cartoonart.org
Castro Art Mart
Monthly first Sundays outdoor array of local artists and craftspeople selling wares. Free, 11am-6pm, Noe St at Market. https://artyhoodsf.com/castro-art-mart/
Catharine Clark Gallery
Arlene Correa's touching immigration-themed textiles. 248 Utah St. https://cclarkgallery.com/
Chabot Space & Science Center
Programs include live science programs each Wed., 10:30am, virtual telescope viewings each Sat. 9pm. Free/$15. 10000 Skyline Blvd, Oakland (opens in Nov.). chabotspace.org
Chinese Cultural Center
Exhibition of new work by Bay Area-based contemporary ceramic artist Cathy Lu. 750 Kearny St. https://www.cccsf.us/
Conservatory of Flowers
Beautiful indoor and outdoor floral exhibits in the classic arboretum; special events and parties, too. 100 JFK Drive, Golden Gate Park. Free/$12. www.conservatoryofflowers.org
Contemporary Jewish Museum
'Gillian Laub: Family Matters,' an exhibit of her family portraits. 'Tikkun: For the Cosmos, the Community, and Ourselves' presents works by 30 Bay Area—based contemporary artists working in fabric sculptures and other media in taking on the theme of 'repair' (tikkun); thru Jan. 8. free/$16. 736 Mission St. thecjm.org
David Ireland House
Home converted into an intimate gallery of unusual art projects. 500 Capp St. https://500cappstreet.org/
de Young Museum
'Ramses the Great and the Gold of the Pharaohs,' a fascinating multi-part exhibit of Egyptian antiquities, jewelry, sarcophagi, even cat mummies, and special virtual reality consoles; thru Feb 12, 2023. Also, the Obama portraits by Kehinde Wiley; 'Nampeyo and the Sikyatki Revival,' thru Feb. 2023; collections of American, African, Oceanic, costume arts, sculpture and more. Tue-Sun 9:30am-5:15pm. 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive. deyoung.famsf.org
Exhibits @ SF Public Library
Book displays at the James C. Hormel LGBTQIA Center, 3rd floor. Also, book exhibits on the 6th floor. 100 Larkin St. https://sfpl.org/
Exploratorium Events
'Glow,' and exhibit of light-focused installations, thru Jan. 29. Also, talks and demos with a science theme, including comet-cam and more; weekly After Dark nighttime parties have returned. Pier 15. www.exploratorium.edu
Gallery 16
'More Than What My Hands Can Hold,' a group exhibit of works by Kim Bennett, Adriane Colburn, Ala Ebtekar, Lena Gustafson, Nathan Lynch, Bruna Massadas, Shaun O'Dell, Rex Ray and Dani Tull; thru Dec. 17. 501 3rd St. https://gallery16.com/
Gallery Wendi Norris
Contemporary artists' works. 436 Jackson St. https://www.gallerywendinorris.com
GLBT History Museum
'Out in the World: Ireland's LGBTQ+ Diaspora.' Online exhibits include 'Stories of Our Movement: Bay Area Reporter at 50.' Also, 'Legendary: African American LGBTQ Past Meets Present, Fighting Back,' a series that brings together community leaders, experts, historians and activists to explore lessons from the past that might be useful in formulating resistance efforts today; 'Reigning Queens: the Lost Photos of Roz Joseph,' curated by Joseph Plaster; and other exhibits. Online events as well. 4127 18th St. www.glbthistory.org
Gregangelo Museum
Take tours at the 27-room mansion filled with eccentric unusual interactive artworks and performances. www.gregangelomuseum.com
Gray Area
Unusual and contemporary art exhibits and installations. 2665 Mission St. https://grayarea.org/
Harvey Milk Photo Center
View exhibits of masterful photographic art; also online galleries. 50 Scott St. https://www.harveymilkphotocenter.org/
Jenkins Johnson Gallery
Online solo and group exhibits of works by Philomela Williamson, Alex Jackson, and others. https://www.jenkinsjohnsongallery.com
Land's End @ Former Cliff House
Group exhibit of artists' varied works where their charge is twofold: to discover artwork in unlikely places and to consider the planet's health. 1090 Point Lobos Ave. https://www.for-site.org
Legion of Honor
European and ancient art, giant Renaissance landscapes and historic paintings, plus classical sculptures and contemporary works, from Degas, Manet, Caillebotte and Vuillard to Egyptian, Greek and Roman artifacts; also, Wangechi Mutu's fascinating modern outdoor and indoor sculptures. Tue-Sun, 9:30am-5:15pm. Free/$15. legionofhonor.famsf.org
Letterform Archive
'Strikethrough: Typographic Messages,' an exhibit of varies protest movement posters and graphics by Emory Douglas, Favianna Rodriguez, Jenny Holzer, W.E.B Dubois, ACT UP, Amos Kennedy, Jr., Corita Kent, Atelier Populaire, Guerrilla Girls, Ben Shahn and others. 2325 3rd St. https://letterformarchive.org/
Lost Art Salon
Intimate gallery exhibits small and unusual works of note by contemporary and early 20th-century artists. 245 S. Van Ness. #303. https://lostartsalon.com
Manna Gallery
'Flux,' Elaine Maute's exhibit of paintings. Also, Orlando Smith retrospective. 473 25th St., Oakland. https://www.mannagallery.com/
McEvoy Foundation for the Arts
Exhibition 'Color Code' an exhibition that celebrates the many ways that color is used to create connection, convey meaning, and elicit emotion, featuring works by Etel Adnan, David Alekhuogie, Sadie Barnette, David Benjamin Sherry, and many more; thru Jan. 21. 1150 20th St. https://www.mcevoyarts.org/exhibition/color-code/
Minnesota Street Art Project
Multiple galleries — Nancy Toomey Fine Art ('Smallish Treasures' group show thru Jan. 3), Municipal Bonds, The Jones Institute and more— host different artist exhibits. 1275 Minnesota St. https://minnesotastreetproject.com/
Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts
Exhibits of art by Latino artists, plus events. 2869 Mission St. missionculturalcenter.org
Museum of the African Diaspora
Exhibits include 'The New Black Vanguard: Photography between Art and Fashion,' thru March 5; also, award-winning films, talks and music performances focusing on Black artists in multiple media. 685 Mission St. www.moadsf.org
Museum of Craft & Design
'Bull.Miletic: Proxistant Vision,' an innovative, art and technology research project that explores the impact of new aerial imaging technologies and their influence and power in everyday life; thru March 19. $8-$10. 2589 3rd St. www.sfmcd.org
Tunnel Tops @ Presidio
New outdoor beautifully landscaped area with scenic views, recreation, ranger talks, murals, and visiting food trucks. www.presidiotunneltops.gov
NIAD Exhibits
The art studio for developmentally disabled adults shares in-person online exhibits and sells beautiful works of art; in-person window displays and weekly online exhibitions. www.niadartstore.org
Oakland Museum
'Angela Davis: Seize the Time,' an exhibit examining the image, influence, and activism of the Oakland-based icon; thru June 11, 2023. 'Hella Feminist,' an exhibit that combines art and historical artifacts to show the diverse individual and collective stories of feminism; thru Jan 8, 2023. 'You Are Here: California Stories on the Map,' thru 2022, 'Black Power' and 'Dorothea Lange: Photography as Activism,' both ongoing. Friday night interactive displays and live music. 1000 Oak St., Oakland. museumca.org
The Pink and Purple Church in the Castro
Online multimedia exhibit documenting the history of Metropolitan Community Church, its LGBTQ-inclusive services and outreach through the AIDS pandemic. http://arspgallery.com/mccsf-exhibit-main/
Pride and Progress
The Victory Fund's online exhibit showcases a timeline of LGBT political history. https://www.prideandprogress.org/
Project Press Play @ Oakland Asian Cultural Center
Exhibition of art in Edward Gunewan's comic book about a queer Asian immigrant dealing with mental health issues. In-person events through the exhibit run. https://www.projectpressplay.com/exhibition
Pulse Memorial Unveiling @ LGBT Center
Unveiling of the 'Aegis' sculpture created by gay, Brazilian, and Latinx artist Wilson Ferreira to memorialize the 49 victims murdered in a mass shooting at Pulse nightclub. Dec. 7, 5:30pm. 1800 Market St. www.sfcenter.org
Queer Arts Featured
New LGBTQ-owned pop-up gallery set in the former site of Harvey Milk's camera shop. Through December 4: 'To Palestine With Love.' 575 Castro St. www.queerartsfeatured.com
Robert Koch Gallery
Contemporary artists exhibits. 49 Geary St. https://kochgallery.com/
Schlomer Haus Gallery
New Castro/Duboce gay-owned art gallery's new group show, 'Photo Realness; The Queer Aesthetics of Photography' with works by Zackary Drucker, Clifford Prince King, Matt Lipps, Alec Marchant, Joe Sinness, and Suzanne Wright; curated by Christopher Tradowsky. 2128 Market St. Tue-Sat 12pm to 6pm and by appointment. https://schlomerhaus.com/
SF Botanical Garden
Beautiful spacious gardens with multiple plants, trees and flowers. Free entry for SF residents; others $3-$10. 1199 9th Ave., Golden Gate Park. https://www.sfbg.org
SF Museum of Modern Art
'Joan Brown,' a retrospective of paintings and sculptures by the SF artists; thru March 12. 'Shifting the Silence,' a group exhibit of 32 women artists, and 'Speculative Portraits,' an exploration of portraiture and identity. Also, Diego Rivera's massive 1940 mural 'Pan American Unity' on display during its restoration, plus 'Diego Rivera's America,' an exhibit of his paintings. Also, Joan Mitchell retrospective' 'Constellations: Photographs in Dialogue.' and Pop, Abstract, and Figurative art collections. Free/$25; reserved, timed ticketing. Mon 10am-5pm. Thu 1pm-8pm. Fri-Sun 10am-5pm. First Thursdays free. 151 Third St. www.sfmoma.org
SOMArts Cultural Center
Various art exhibits and events. 934 Brannan St. www.somarts.org
Southern Exposure
Unusual art and installations and online projects. 3030 20th St. https://soex.org
Stitching Communities and the AIDS Memorial Quilt @ Thacher Gallery
Exhibit of panels from The AIDS Memorial Quilt, which stands as an enduring monument to love, loss, and the power of art to bring communities together; thru Feb. 17. 2130 Fulton St. USF campus. https://www.usfca.edu/thacher-gallery
Tenderloin Museum
New and permanent exhibits of neighborhood history. Leila Weefur's exhibit of trans portraits; thru Jan 7. 398 Eddy St. http://www.tenderloinmuseum.org/
Walt Disney Family Museum
Located in The Presidio, the museum dedicated to the art of Disney films hosts online and in-person exhibits, classes and events. Thru Jan. 8, 2023: 'Walt Disney's The Jungle Book: Making a Masterpiece,' and 'Creative Conservation: The Art of Endangered Animals.' 104 Montgomery St. www.waltdisney.org
We Were There
Online tours of art museums, showcasing hidden and overlooked LGBT themes, subjects and artists. http://wewerethere.org/
Worker
Online exhibit showcases photos and historic paintings of sex workers by 19 artists, from the late 19th Century of Edouard Manet and Henri De Toulouse-Lautrec to modern day contemporaries such as Felix Gonzalez-Torres, David Hockney, Nan Goldin, Bruce LaBruce and Margie Schnibbe. NSFW. www.artreporttoday.com
Would You Be Caught Dead In That Outfit? - Que Perra Mi Amiga! @ Pacific Felt Factory
Julian Delgado Lopera and Rebeka Rodriguez's installation/archival project about legendary intergenerational histories of trans Latinas on San Francisco's 16th Street. 2830 29th St. www.pacificfeltfactory.com
Yerba Buena Center for the Arts
Unusual modern art exhibits; also, film screenings, murals, and tours. Lobby art: Taravat Talepasand's 'Peace in the Middle East.' Also, 'Brett Cook & Liz Lerman: Reflection & Action,' a video dance and m multimedia installation 701 Mission St. https://ybca.org
NIGHTLIFE
100: The Story of Mama José Sárria, Absolute Empress I de San Francisco @ Oasis
Emperor 48 William Bulkley hosts and celebration of the pioneering activist and first Empress' 100th birthday, with dozens of local Court, nightlife and drag luminaries speaking, singing and honoring Sarria. Proceeds benefit SF Night Ministry. $15-$50. Dec. 3, 6:30pm-8:30pm. 298 11th St. www.imperialcouncilsf.org
440 Castro
Friendly neighborhood bar has ample outdoor seating, and indoor drink specials, Monday underwear parties and two bars. 440 Castro St. http://www.the440.com/
After Dark @ Exploratorium
Evening cocktail parties return to the interactive science museum, with different themes; Thursdays 6pm-10pm. Pier 15 (Embarcadero at Green St.) https://www.exploratorium.edu/
Asia SF
Dining, nightlife and classy drag performers mix at the popular SoMa club; dinner shows from $59-$79. 201 9th St. https://asiasf.com/
Aunt Charlie's Lounge
The intimate bar serves strong drinks and hosts frequent drag shows. Nov 24: Thanksgiving Night edition of DJ Bus Station John's disco-infused Tubesteak Connection. $5-$10. 9pm-2am. 133 Turk St.
Beaux
Nightlife's hopping at the popular Market Street club, with drag entertainers, gogo studs, drinks and food. Shangri-La second Saturdays. Latin Divas Live 4th Saturdays, You/nique 3rd Saturdays. Big Top Sundays and Friday Manimal with studly gogos. Drag brunch Sat & Sun, 2pm & 4pm. Pan Dulce Wednesdays, and weekly 'Drag Race' viewings. https://www.beauxsf.com/
The Cafe
Popular Castro nightclub with a dance floor and lounge areas, two bars, drag shows and gogo dancers on select nights; Picante Latin night on Thursdays. 2369 Market St. https://cafesf.com/
Club 1220
Walnut Creek's gay bar, with drag shows, karaoke and dance nights. 1220 Pine St., Walnut Creek. https://club1220.com/
Club OMG
Intimate mid-Market nightclub includes DJed dancing, drag shows and a karaoke night. 43 6th St. http://www.clubomgsf.com/
Dirty Habit, Hotel Zelos
Hotel's fifth-floor bar/restaurant hosts themed nights, plus Tuesday night street food and other rooftop events. 12 4th St. www.viceroyhotelsandresorts.com
DNA Lounge
SoMa nightclub hosts many queer-friendly events. 475 11th St. https://www.dnalounge.com/
Drag Brunch at Curio
Rexy hosts 12pm & 2pm drag shows (with Kylie Minono, Kipper Snacks, Bionka Simone) with brunch. 775 Valencia St. https://www.curiobarsf.com/
The Edge
Musical Wednesdays, the weekly Monster Show, Beards & Booze and other events have returned to the popular bar. 4149 18th St. www.edgesf.com
The EndUp
Historic SoMa nightclub hosts straight, gay and whatever late-night dance events. 401 6th St. https://theendupsf.com/
Eros
SF's queer sex club in a new location (site of the historic Bulldog Baths), open daily at 2pm to 10pm-12am; memberships available. 18+ only. $10-$30. 132 Turk St. www.erossf.com
Fireside Lounge, Alameda
Woman-owned LGBT-friendly bar with live shows, outdoor lounge, cool cocktails. 1453 Webster St. https://www.thefiresidelounge.com/
Golden Bull, Oakland
LGBT-friendly bar presents diverse live music acts; Queeraoke on 2nd and 4th Sundays at 7pm. 412 14th St. https://goldenbullbar.com/
The Great Dickens Christmas Fair @ Cow Palace
Holiday-themed amusements include food, drinks, gift sales, ice skating, music, theater performances and Victorian cosplay. $15-$45; thru Dec. 18. 2600 Geneva Ave., Daly City. https://dickensfair.com/
The Hole in the Wall
Local rock DJs like Don Baird play at the SoMa 'friendly neighborhood gay biker bar.' 1369 Folsom St. https://blackwolfmetal.com/ Also, listen online: https://www.twitch.tv/donbaird
Jolene's
SoMa queer and woman/trans-owned nightclub and restaurant; Coyote Queer, second Saturdays, with DJs Koslov & Livv, costume contest. Queer Karaoke Thursdays; UHaul SF, Fridays. Sunday brunch drag show 11am-5pm. 2700 16th St. http://jolenessf.com/index.html
Lookout
The Castro bar with a panoramic view. Bounce (Sat. nights), Lips & Lashes Drag Brunch with host Carnie Asada (Sat. afternoons), Jock (Sunday nights). 3600 16th St. http://www.lookoutsf.com/
Lone Star Saloon
DJed events at the historic bear bar, plus regular nights of rock music and patio hangouts. 1354 Harrison St. https://www.lonestarsf.com/
Martuni's
The intimate martini bar hosts music cabaret acts. Pianist Russell Deason hosts the fun weekly Monday Happy Hour open mic gathering. 5:30pm-8:30pm. 4 Valencia St. at Market.
Midnight Sun
The popular bar celebrates 50 years; Timeline Tuesdays, Honeypot Fridays with gogo studs; Galaxy Saturday nights with DJ Lu; K-Pop and drag shows like Munro's at Midnight, 10pm Monday nights. plus Thursday Media Noche, and more.4067 18th St. https://www.midnightsunsf.com/
Milk SF
Queer cafe in the Mission offers coffee, pastries, food, local drag shows. Sober Karaoke on 4th Wednesdays, 6pm-9:30pm. 302 Valencia St. https://www.milk-sf.com/
Moby Dick
Popular neighborhood bar known for its colorful aquarium and tasty drinks celebrates 40 years. 4049 18th St. https://www.facebook.com/MobyDickBar/
Muevelo @ Que Rico, Oakland
Enjoy the new nightclub's weekly dance party with DJed grooves, drag divas, and gogo studs. Fridays, $10 and up, 9:30pm-3am. 381 15th St., Oakland. www.quericonightclub.com
Oasis
Dec. 2, 7pm: 'Heaux, Heaux, Heaux' drag show. Dec. 2, 10pm-2am: DJ ShyBoy's 'Princemas.' Shows also include Princess, the weekly Saturday night drag show, 10pm-2am. Reparations, the all-Black drag show. Dec. 4, 6pm-9pm: Sing Out, Louise!, piano bar/open mic with Joe Wicht and Helena Levin. Karaoke & Cocktails with Emma Peel, Tuesdays, 7pm-11pm. 398 11th St. www.sfoasis.com
Port Bar, Oakland
Ongoing: Shake It Up Saturdays and Juicy (also Saturdays); Women's night Sundays; Wednesdays are a Drag shows at 9pm, 10pm & 11pm; Big Gay Trivia on Tuesdays; Thursdays, Karaoke Star hosted by Amoura Teese; also weekend drag brunch. Dec. 10, 8pm: Holiday Extravaganza hosted by Amoura Teese. 2023 Broadway. www.portbaroakland.com|
Powerhouse Bar
Popular cruisy SoMa bar; Underwear Thursdays; Juanita MORE's Powerblouse (fun drag makeovers; Aug. 6: Raul Anthony Gomez) 1st Saturdays, Glamamore's Pillows drag show on Mondays; and Beat Pig, 3rd Saturdays. 1347 Folsom St. https://www.powerhousebar.com/
Prime @ Club Six
Trophy Dad's 'Naughty or Nice' holiday edition of the older men-focused sexy dance night, with DJs Deanne and Neon the Glowgobear. $30-$50. Dec. 3, 10pm-4am. 60 6th St. https://www.eventbrite.com
Que Rico
LGBT Latinx nightclub features cute gogo guys and fun drag shows, DJed dance floor, brunch and dinner menus, too. Pap Chulo Nov. 26. 381 15th St., Oakland. www.quericonightclub.com
El Rio
The popular bar with a spacious outdoor patio hosts multiple LGBTQ events, including Hard French; Daytime Realness, a drag show hosted by Heklina, Mango, live bands, comedy and more. Dec. 3, 3pm-6pm: The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence's fourth Krampus Pageant, with a costume contest for the best child-snatching holiday monster. $10-$20. 3158 Mission St. https://www.elriosf.com/
Roller Disco @ Church of 8 Wheels
Roller-skating nights with groovy tunes, plus skate rentals. $5-$15. 554 Fillmore St. http://www.churchof8wheels.com/
Safeway Holiday Ice Rink @ Union Square
Enjoy fun outdoor making (rentals available) at the annual downtown rink, with ongoing special events like Drag Queens on Ice (Dec. 1, $40). $13-$18; thru Jan. 16. 333 Post St. https://unionsquareicerink.com/
SF Eagle
The famed leather bar has numerous events; BLUF Cigar Buddies 2nd Fridays; monthly Lair with host Suppository Spelling; Frolic cosplay/furry party, 2nd Saturdays, 8pm-2am. Sunday beverage bust, 3pm-7pm, $10-$15. (http://frolicparty.com/) 398 12th St. https://thesfeagle.com/
Steamworks Berkeley
The award-winning bathhouse hosts special events, DJed nights, and regular cruise vibe. $5-$200 (6-month membership). 18+ only. Open 24/7 every day. 2107 4th St., Berkeley. https://www.steamworksbaths.com/berkeleyhome
Suavecito @ Space 550
Valentino Presents and Club Papi present a weekly Latin dance night with DJs Mike, Mr. Biggs, and Lola; Sonora Tropicana band, drag acts, gogo guys, three dance rooms, outdoor lounge. Saturdays, $15-$25. 9:30pm-3am. 550 Barneveld Ave. www.suavecitosf.com
Sundance Saloon @ Space 550
The (mostly) Country music line-dancing, two-stepping nights (Sundays and Thursdays) has returned. $5, 5pm-10:30pm. 550 Barneveld Ave. www.sundancesaloon.org
Twin Peaks
Enjoy a great view and strong drinks at the historic tavern. 401 Castro St. https://www.twinpeakstavern.com/
White Horse Bar
Enjoy outdoor dining and drinks at the famous Oakland bar; monthly music nights, 7:30pm. 6551 Telegraph Ave., Oakland. whitehorsebar.com
Wild Side West
Historic lesbian and friends bar in Bernal Heights with an airy backyard garden (stairs). 424 Cortland Ave. https://www.wildsidewest.com/
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