Thanksgiving is over, and after the succulent turkey is roasted and the desserts are consumed the holidays will be upon us; so what to do? Have a flock of family and friends in town and looking for a holiday event over the weekend? Want to enjoy the holiday and the weather with a little culture and fun? Want to go out to the theatre or watch a holiday classic? Here's a list of featured local arts and entertainment events happening in the Bay Area over the holiday weekend before we dive into December. 

Lindsay Sterling: Warmer In The Winter Tour at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts at Morsani Hall
Friday, November 24, 8:00 p.m. Tickets start at $47.50 

Violinist and multi-talented musical virtuoso Lindsay Sterling continues her Warmer in the Winter Tour for one night only in the Morsani Hall at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts. The YouTube sensation, Billboard Award winner and chart-topper brings her first holiday-themed album to the stage with old classics, new favorites and special guests. Featuring opening act Alexander Jean. 

Much Ado About Nothing at the American Stage Theatre Company

Friday, November 22 - Sunday November 26. Friday 8:00 p.m., Saturday 3:00 p.m. & 8:00 p.m., Sunday 3:00 p.m.

This take on Shakespeare's classic "original Rom-Com" is Directed by Artist-in-Residence Benjamin T. Islamil and starring Producing Artistic Director Stephanie Gularte as Beatrice is set right at the end of World War II and "full of music and dance, and set against the backdrop of the Florida Keys' bright sunshine." This plays in the intimate Raymond James Theatre where American Stage resides. Tickets available here and start at $39. 

Shakespeare's Lovers (Storytelling/Cabaret/Comedy) at the American Stage Theatre Company

Sunday, November 26, 7:00PM. $15; $20 at the door 

While you are seeing Much Ado on Sunday, stay afterward for a special Cabaret-style event exploring the Bard's most romantic scenes and sonnets. Performances by Company Members from the show and more in the cozy American Stage lobby. 

The Holiday Revue at the Carrollwood Players Theatre

Friday, November 24 - Sunday, November 26. Friday & Saturday 8:00 p.m.; Sunday 3:00 p.m. $10 General Admission

"Ring in the Holidays - all of them - with this funny, original musical revue celebrating the joy - and frustrations - of the season!" This parody of show tunes mixed with the holidays is written and directed by Tiger von Pagel and playing at the Carrollwood Players Black Box Theatre Friday through Sunday. Enjoy an evening of laughter and fun for the whole family in an intimate venue! Written and Directed by Tiger von Pagel.

Miracle on 34th Street, a Free Screening at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park

Presented by Tampa Theatre Friday, November 24. 7:30 p.m. Free

The perennial Christmas classic is a great addition to the Tampa Downtown Partnership's annual Winter Village event. The Academy Award-winning film will be shown in the park with the Tampa Theatre being closed for renovation through the holidays. Lawn seating is limited and is first-come, first-served with blankets and lawn-chairs encouraged. Refreshments will be available for sale from Tampa Theatre and other vendors of the Winter Village. Don't forget to stop by the Tampa Theatre tent at 6:00 p.m. for a free photo-op with Santa, courtesy of Bank of America!

A Christmas Story, a Free Screening at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park 

Presented by Tampa Theatre

Saturday, November 25. 7:30 p.m. Free

The cult classic comes to Curtis Hixon Park in the fourth installment of Tampa Theatre's free holiday classic's film screenings. Reminisce with Ralphie and his friends before you catch it with your family for 24-hours straight on Christmas. Just like before, lawn seating is limited and is first-come, first-served with blankets and lawn-chairs encouraged. Refreshments will be available for sale from Tampa Theatre and other vendors of the Winter Village. Don't forget to stop by the Tampa Theatre tent at 6:00 p.m. for a free photo-op with Santa, courtesy of Bank of America!

It's great for our community to support local arts and embrace the holiday season with our family, friends, and even our in-laws. Over the next few weeks there will be a plethora of holiday-themed shows, events, Nutcrackers and festivals to see, all without having to bundle up like Ralphie from A Christmas Story!

So when you're with your friends debating what the weekend should entail, check out 813area for the best Things To Do in the Bay Area. And don't forget to register for free on the site for the latest updates! 

Cover Photo courtesy of Lloyd Dirks on Upsplash.