Are you looking for something to do this weekend, as early as this weekend? No worries folks with P.K.’s Weekend Roundup on Examiner.com, not only will you find activities that include the latest and greatest, but your favorites as well. We've compiled some of the hottest happenings from inland to the coast, from the exquisite to the slightly bizarre, from this weekend to the next and just a few days – and sometimes a few weeks beyond – so you can plan ahead. The wonderful and “lucky” New Year is finally upon us with this being the first weekend enjoy your family traditions to the fullest – keeping in mind that resolutions are out and traditions are in. So let our worries fade, and let us take you to places of fun and excitement whether for some ooh-la-la romance with your sweetheart, some quiet time alone or for some much needed family time to get in some group hugs – whatever you decide to do just give it your all, be safe (and please, designate a sober driver if you plan to drink) and make these new memories count as they should be cherishable, charitable and magnificently unforgettable. Ciao for now.
This weekend, Saturday & Sunday January 5 & 6, 2013
Saturday, January 5, 2013 – ending very soon near you!
San Jose – Have you seen all of the lights in downtown Santana Row? Or perhaps Saratoga, Los Gatos, Mountain View, Redwood City or downtown San Jose? Take the family out for dinner and then head on down for a family drive-through tour (especially if you missed the Los Gatos drive-through light extravaganza event at Vasona for the “Fantasy of Lights” that was through January 1, 2013). Check with your city to see if they have the lights up (most will through the first few weeks of January – and some may have them up for a few months. Also, be sure to check out the winners of the holiday lights contests in your city; with a special thank you to all who decorated this year – even with the energy crisis, it was especially heartwarming to see the use of LED lights as a savings, and to see how many participated in the touching of hearts all over the city.
Saturday & Sunday, January, 4 & 5, 2013 – (event ends Jan. 6, 2013)
San Jose – The Winchester Mystery House “Spirit of Christmas” daytime walk-through Mansion Tours are spectacular – and just because the holidays are over doesn’t mean the spirit is. Although the Mansion Tours are available year-round, “The Spirit of Christmas” daytime tours are available through January 6, 2013. Various tours also available throughout the year; visit the Winchester Mystery House website for additional information and pricing.
Saturday & Sunday, January 5 & 6, 2013 – (extended one additional weekend; event ends Jan. 6)
Santa Clara – The light show, Global Winter Wonderland is sharing all its glory and wonder with everyone in the Santa Clara and Silicon Valley one last weekend, extended into an additional weekend into the New Year so if you missed it and want to see what the fuss is all about, there is still time. Twinkling lights galore, excitement, recycled medicine bottles made into glorious statues, silk designs made into seas of fish and seaweed that capture even the youngest of eyes; dragons and castles and fairy tales oh my – it is a wonderland filled with dinosaurs, reptiles and more (new this year),
Check the site (or other sites) for discounts that might be available, as well as 511.org for transportation, although parking is available for $10 (general – although a great view of the SF 49er stadium currently under construction) and $20 for VIP, near the front parking (cash only). Global Winter Wonderland is being held inside the Great America located at 4701 Great America Parkway in Santa Clara through January 6, 2013; take public transportation to this event. Tickets: $18 general; $16 junior and senior; and children age 4 and under free. Season pass: $29.99. No pets allowed; lockers available; as well as strollers and wheelchair rentals on first-come, first-serve basis behind Guest Services. Call for tickets 1-888-768-7469.
Saturday & Sunday, January 5 & 6, 2013 – (Christmas decorations end Jan. 6)
Anaheim – Disneyland Anaheim Resort is still the happiest place on earth, with The Haunted Mansion still one of the best haunted mansion's with Jack Skellington's Christmas decorations, "etc." Disneyland has always been a great place to visit, although The Haunted Mansion Christmas decorations vanish on January 6, 2013, so if you haven't seen all that people have relished about, you might want to drive on up to SoCal; or you just might have to wait until fall again. Disneyland is always a great place to spend the weekend, or week but plan for at least a few days to ensure all of your favorite rides get a fair amount of time from you. Stay tuned for P.K.'s updated Disneyland getaway complete with hotel and ride highlights for the New Year. In the meantime, a very Happy New Year to all.
Saturday, January 5, 2013
Santa Clara – Yes, a Saturday’s market to offset the usual Sunday affair and this one in Santa Clara: The Santa Clara Farmer's Market is also a year-round event held in front (or back near the post office) at Franklin Square Mall in Santa Clara (at Jackson Street and Homestead Road), and happens to be quite the quaint little farmer’s market indeed – perfect for those Saturday shoppers who like to get it done and out of the way. From caramel corn to flowers and vegetables to fresh fruit you’re bound to find what you need (with many growers that are also at the Campbell’s Farmer’s Market); live entertainment, laughter, trades, goods and treats. Open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Wednesday, January 9, 2013
San Jose – A special Wednesday Farmer's Market in San Jose to catch up on grocery shopping for the family, and get a head start on the remainder of your holiday shopping. Add some ooh-la-la for that special recipe or enjoy a little time to yourself while the kids go off and do some of their own shopping – let them shop for dinner and cook one night, wouldn’t that be fun?! Whatever you do, just enjoy yourself for an afternoon at the Cambrian Park Farmer’s Market San Jose held at the lot at Camden and Union Avenues in San Jose on Wednesday, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. This market sponsored by the Cambrian Park Plaza Merchants Association.
Saturday, January 12, 2013
Niles – Shopping and Movie Night. Visit the town of Niles for shopping, from antiques to uniques; Niles is always a great place to find that Christmas gift you’ve been looking for. And don’t forget the “Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum” for silent movie night every Saturday night at the Edison theater located at 37417 Niles Blvd. begins at 7:30 p.m. check the website for which silent film will be played.
Saturday, January 12, 2012
Santa Clara – Santa Clara Swim Club’s Annual Swim-A-Thon to support the historic club. Support the swimmers, count laps and keep track of time – all at the International Swim Center in Santa Clara located behind the Santa Clara Library on Homestead Road.
Saturday, January 12, 2013 – enlighten your soul and brighten your world with art and technology
San Jose – San Jose Institute of Contemporary Art is always a great afternoon visit, or schedule to go with your sweetheart or child on the weekend. Located at 560 South First in downtown San Jose and with a collection of amazing exhibits from very talented artists from all over the Bay Area, this is a great way to spend an afternoon with your sweetheart. Open Saturdays from Noon to 5 p.m.; closed Sunday and Monday. Visit their website or call 1-408-283-8155.
Santa Clara – The Triton Museum of Art is also another museum worth the visit and if you’re closer to Santa Clara, then maybe the Triton Museum might be on your list of museums to visit; located at 1505 Warburton Avenue at Don Avenue in Santa Clara. Showcasing all sorts of artwork from artists all over the Bay Area, this is another museum worth spending an afternoon in. Parking is free. Visit their website or call 1-408-247-2136. Currently on exhibit: Karen Frey.
Santa Clara – Educate yourself and your children with the latest technology at The Intel Museum, the place where folks can "Journey through decades of Innovation." The Intel Museum truly is a place of wonder where technology is concerned, and where kids and adults alike can share the world of technology and a little tech knowledge. Discover the making of silicon chips or cruise the Intel Museum store for holiday gifts. Located at 2200 Mission College Blvd. in Santa Clara. Open Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. For additional information or museum schedule, call 1-408-765-5053.
San Carlos – Carlos at the Hiller Aviation Museum located at 601 Skyway Road in San Carlos. This is not only a place where those interested in flight, exploration or flying – but children are always amazed by technology. Explore the wonderful world of aeronautics with your child, or what the heck, go by yourself. Call 1-650-654-0200 for additional information.
Anywhere – Art-o-mat – Truly fine art for an affordable price for collectors; smaller versions of the original artwork that artists create available in incredible, vintage cigarette machines renovated into art vending machines that are also pieces of art. Definitely one way to replace greeting cards and they are the same price! For just $5 people can own a piece of fine art and add to their collections; children can learn about fine art – there are simply no limitations when it comes to art.
Santa Clara – The de Saisset Museum, Santa Clara University is also another great museum to check out; located at 500 El Camino Real in Santa Clara. For additional information visit their website or call 1-408-554-4528.
Oakland – Free first Sunday of the month is “free” admission day at the Oakland Museum of California located at 100 Oak Street in Oakland. Visit the website for additional information on exhibits, new hours of operations and event info.
Los Angeles – Ki’i Boards Fine Art – Have you given up surfing and want to turn your surf board into fine art? Do you love the ocean and the theme and fine art and want to incorporate the two? The ideas are endless and so is the art by this extremely talented young lady – Tara Berger out of southern California
San Francisco – First Tuesday of every month comes the Conservatory of Flowers – a great place with a lot of incredibly beautiful flowers – no doubt as beautiful as you are, ladies. A great place to take a date gentleman, and a great place to take the kids – they have a good time, too. Current exhibits include Boomtown’s Barbary Coast’s Gold Rush Days through April 14, 2013.
Saturday, January 12, 2013 – (Check for adoption fee specials)
San Jose and Sunnyvale – Adopt-a-pet, save a furry little life and provide a “forever’ home to that New Year’s gift for your family member with the Humane Society of Silicon Valley’s because everyone knows that HSSV is the best place to get a pet, with some of your pet’s favorite toys, food and other pet accessories available at Petco Sunnyvale and San Jose locations (off Saratoga Avenue near Westgate).
The adoption benefits of going through Humane Society of Silicon Valley include everything from spay/neuter surgery to all vaccines and routine de-worming – the benefits are as priceless as the felines or pooches awaiting your smooches – and your time is equally priceless, so don’t forget to tell a friend and remember, if you can’t adopt get those volunteer hours in to help these little munchkins feel loved. Petco San Jose is located at 500 El Paseo de Saratoga Avenue in San Jose; 1-408-370-2732; and Petco Sunnyvale is located at 160 East El Camino Real in Sunnyvale; 1-408-720-1419. Choose a new pet who is looking for a “forever” home and thank you to everyone who has shown their support and for giving the past almost dozen animals we’ve shown a loving home – your support is much appreciated. These purring and furry animals needed you and you came through!
Saturday, January 12, 2013
Ben Lomond – Towne & Country Antiques and Uniques is a unique antique store and quite frankly one of the best on our list, and one that will absolutely become one of your favorites – especially during the holidays when shopping needs to get done. From the outdoor garden area with iron structures and statues be it mermaids, angels or animals to various iron structures to the indoors where collections of sorts from dolls to houses to furniture and sorts covering every holiday from St. Valentine’s to Christmas with displays that will make you feel right-at-home. The owner, Jan, will also make you feel welcome and is very helpful, and one of the friendliest owners we've met in a long time. Be sure to add “Towne & Country Antiques and Uniques” to your list of antique shops and spend an afternoon browsing for that have-to-have treasure find. Towne & County Antique and Uniques is located at 9280 Highway 9 in Ben Lomond. For additional information and hours please call 1-831-336-5993.
Sunday, January 13, 2013 – or any day of the week
Your home –anytime – Don't feel like going out and just want to stay home? Why not go online and do a little holiday shopping or check out the latest music video – and hey, have you checked out the Examiner site recently? We have just about everything on every topic so check us out!
P.K.’s music video fav’s and picks of the week:
–Train – in previous weeks I mentioned “Drops of Jupiter” and Save Me San Francisco" but for those who haven’t yet listened to Train’s newest release, "50 Ways to Say Goodbye," it’s pretty hilarious so check it out.
–The Stragglyrs are a “rootsy” group who produce some of the best folk-rock and country rock music in the Bay Area who also write some quality songs that are nothing short of superb. Tom Thomson on lead and rhythm guitar and vocals; Bill Mishler on drums and vocals; Chris Purdum on bass, rhythm guitar and vocals; and the newest member, Hank Van Buren on rhythm and lead guitar and vocals. Check their website for a listen and their calendar for their next gig – you’ll be glad you did.
– Doc Roc and the Disorderlies – That’s right, there is a cure for what ails you with Doc Roc and the Disorderlies you get the hottest cover music in the nation or, some of their awesome originals. From good old-fashioned Rock & Roll, jazz and all sorts of mix of music that you can dance to or just listen to while surfing the web or sitting in that lovely Bay Area traffic. And a hot little piece of trivia for you, the drummer of the band really is a doctor. From private parties and local clubs to weddings and Bar Mitzvah because these guys are among the best – and their MySpace page is where you can give their new sound a listen.
– MATCHBOX TWENTY “3AM” watch the video, with a new CD release, “North.”
–Phillip Phillips – the hot new sound is always at "Home" in your heart.
–Gary Allen “Every Storm Runs Out of Rain” – his website should have the video front and center; if not, search it, it’s well worth it. Word on the music strip is that those who donate to Hurricane Sandy victims can receive a free Gary Allen download; check out details here,
–And how about a “one hit wonder” flashback to a song by OMC who came out with “How Bizarre”?
–Christina Perry “A Thousand Years” – from the movie, Twilight – their latest, where Edward "gets the girl." And, well, where us women realize that the one we love is worth fighting for, (as long as he fights back, that is). An absolutely great song; among the best – so do give it a listen.
–Taylor Swift sometimes adds a little humor and this one is for sure a good one for that "ex" you can’t seem to let go of but know you should: “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together” and don’t forget her new song, “I Knew You Were Trouble" ...indeed a new (and cool) look for Swift.
–And what about Owl City with “Fireflies” – another cool favorite. Who can resist that cutie on the keyboard but more importantly it’s a great song with hope.
–Kesha “Die Young” music video – the vote is still out on this one; so what do you think? Check out her website to also hear the excited New York “train guy” – it is (ehem) interesting…I can officially say that there is nothing like it when it comes to trains, trust me (the horn gives him the chills). I wonder what Ke$ha was thinking there?
–That song we all love from Superman, “Kryptonite” by 3Doors Down – the one that is either romantic or reminiscent of a past love (or wannabe love).
–Christina Perri “A Jar of Hearts” – Ghosts must leave the building for this song is a definitive way to get over someone they’ve loved for a thousand years or more – once they’ve decided that person can’t hurt them anymore.
–Maroon 5 area always coming out with a hit, their latest:” One More Night” -indeed worth a listen.
–“Locked Out of Heaven” by Bruno Mars – a cute song for those who are missing their Bruno fix.
–Music video by the Queen of Country Music, Carrie Underwood, who sung this song, “Blown Away” with her amazing voice at the Billboard Music Awards 2012 – and while you’re there, heck out her new single, “Two Black Cadillacs.”
–P!nk is always in and it’s never complete without that one last kiss (isn't there a wine by that name?) so be sure to check out this song, “Blow Me (One Last Kiss)” by the extremely talented and beautiful P!nk.
Monday, January 14, 2013 – (event date: Jan, 29)
San Jose – Broadway San Jose, A Nederlander Presentation in association with Team San Jose presents “Rock of Ages.” Four additional shows in the 2012-2013 season include the South Bay debuts of “Rock of Ages,” theatrical phenomenon Blue Man Group,” Tony Award-winning Best Musical “Billy Elliot” and “Green Day’s American Idiot.” Beginning on January 29, the first of these wonderful four will be “Rock of Ages” on stage at the San Jose Center for the Performing Arts. Dates, times and prices vary (stay tuned to Examiner’s Event section and P.K.’s reviews for additional information); and visit Broadway San Jose's website for details. For season ticket information, call 1-408-866-395-2929 or 1-408-792-4111.
Friday, January 18, 2013 – (or any day of the week)
Since “living” is the theme for 2013, how about a “live” moon-rise or glow, or when was the last time you witnessed a sunrise, or watched the sunset in your pajamas? The “in” thing is to webcam-it from your home computer to somewhere you’d like to be. Check to see what the weather is (if you can see a blizzard, it might not be the best time to head to Tahoe) – or maybe you have an itch to see what the higher view of life looks like from the tops of Mt. Tam. Whatever your desired view, we have it here for you:
Mount Hamilton – The hamcam at Mt. Hamilton is a great thing to check out anytime, from home or office – just to check out what’s going on in the sky from where you are
Mount Tamalpais – not only is this one place you’ll definitely want to go check out for a morning or afternoon hike if not for the beautiful view, the webcam is a neat thing, too
Mount Umunhum – There is also the famous Mount Umunhum live webcam, at the foothills of the valley (although not many know the name of the mountain – but it’s the one that everyone looks to when they want to see if there is any snow)
Lake Tahoe – The ever beautiful Lake Tahoe webcam is a must when it comes to live cams so naturally we included it; with a special inclusion toward the bottom of the same page of Heavenly and Yosemite, so enjoy!
Friday, January 18, 2013
San Jose – The HP Pavilion in San Jose hosts some pretty good shows with “The Harlem Globetrotters” on January 20, 2013, for a special basketball fan treat.
Friday & Saturday, January 18 & 19, 2013
Los Gatos – Are you looking for some of the best BBQ rub on the planet, or maybe you’re just crazy for good live entertainment on a weekend – whatever you're looking for be it Country & Western mood or the finest BBQ rub on the planet, The Cats Restaurant and Tavern is a good-time for all. And don't forget for those not wanting to drive that one or two exits up Hwy. 880/17 from San Jose they can always catch a free shuttle offered by The Cats. Catch the shuttle from the parking lot across from the Toll House Inn in downtown Los Gatos (free shuttle every 25 minutes, from 5 p.m. until midnight; every Friday and Saturday). Savings Tip for Examiner readers: Co-owner Mark Thomas said for those who "Like" The Cats on Facebook, they can receive a free "Cowboy Chip Platter" appetizer. The Cats is located at 17533 Santa Cruz Highway in Los Gatos. Call 1-408-354-4020 for additional information.
Sunday, January 20, 2013
Campbell – Campbell Farmer’s Market – That’s right folks, Campbell’s Farmer’s Market is still one of the best Farmer’s Market’s around; attended by thousands so meet your old friends or heck, why not meet some new ones. Purchase some plants or pick out some fresh fruits and veggies and let the kids walk off some useless energy before heading home to do that book report; soak up some sun or a few drops of rain and let that good energy form beneath whatever sun you can find – just enjoy a little family time. Held on Sundays in downtown Campbell from 9 a.m. and 1 p.m.; find everything from bread to soup to nuts-or whatever your needs for the week ahead, including live entertainment, taste-testing and shops open downtown – this is one market that just can’t be beat.
Sunday, January 20, 2013
Your home, with your sweetheart, televised – When was the last time you were a lounge lizard with your sweetheart and watched a little football? Get ready for 2013 in style by not only getting in a little cuddle time but how about preparing to save money by cuddling instead of shopping – not only will you save a return or two, but likely an argument and some “splainin’ Lucy” time. So check out your favorite team (mine just so happens to be the San Francisco 49ers …although years ago I also used to also follow the Redskins…) Check out your local TV Guide, newspaper or cable listings for game time; or check out your team’s website, such as the San Francisco 49ers for details and schedule (or, if you’re lucky, you’ll be at the game and can share photos with us!) Go SF!
Sunday, January 20, 2013 – (event dates: Jan. 20 and Feb. 8)
Los Gatos – Festa Gioia with Italian gifts galore for the new “lucky” New Year 2013, and for the upcoming masquerade Ball to be held at Ria in Campbell; as well as for the St. Valentine’s Day festivities to be February 8 – don’t miss these exciting events that are not only colorful, exciting, lucky – but also joyful and not to be missed in this new year 2013.
A sneak peek into February 2013 – (event date: Feb. 20)
San Jose – Disney on Ice: Dare to Dream will be at San Jose’s HP Pavilion with an all new ice skating production of Disney On Ice magic and merriment of three productions in one with “Tangled,” “The Princess and the Frog,” and Cinderella.” A class of world skater spectacular performers combine modern-day princesses and princes with humor, adventure, amazing talents and romance to bring to life more than stories filled with the modern-day fairytale that audiences will expect – from the variety of tales filled with charm and excitement such as Rapunzel, Flynn and Maximus who embark on an hilarious journey going beyond the normal seek-and-find to Princess Tiana and Prince Naveen’s magical and musical adventure leading to a fateful kiss to fanciful dreams of Cinderalla and her prince charming and that all-too-familiar glass slipper that makes an unforgettable fairytale come true with all sorts of beauty, sparkle and spirit on the ice when Disney On Ice presents “Dare to Dream” in February 2013 at the HP Pavilion. Tickets: FR $80, VIP $50, $27 and $20 with some opening night seats available for $15 (not premium seating). Ticketmaster 1-800-745-3000; tickets to be subject to additional fees.
February 2013
New Orleans – Not that there s much to prepare for with the SuperBowl XLVII, however, there’s always BBQ fixin’s, munchies, football jersey’s from the official NFL store – and so much more! Get your football gear and goodies now and be prepared because the Superbowl is almost here; and while we are on the subject, good luck SF 49ers!
“New Year's Day is every person's birthday.” –Unknown
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Answer to last week’s mystery photo “Mystery Machine”:
The location for what P.K. referred to as the "Scooby Doo Mystery Machine" in last week's photo is located in none other than quaint little Felton, CA, just off Hwy. 880/17 after going through Scotts Valley heading toward Roaring Camp Railroad, with Safeway and Roaring Camp to the left and where Felton is off to the right. The mystery van sits in the lot of Cornerstone Automotive on Felton Empire and Graham Hill Roads at Highway 9 – where they all intersect (slightly down and across from Don Quixote’s). Check out this week's mystery photo.
Stay tuned for more of the creative and behind-the-scene goodness as P.K. researches, unfolds and shares a little of that sweetness with everyone for what everyone hopes will be a spectacular year. And remember, support the arts, music and education as it feeds the brain and calms the soul; we strive to balance life by opening our hearts to new experiences so stay tuned to the Examiner.com for more ways to stay healthy, alternatively-wealthy and wise – with much more excitement to come.
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