Festivals, Feasts & Fairs

NEVADA CITY--The public is invited to dress the part at the Victorian Christmas, 6-9 p.m. Wednesday and Dec. 17 and 1-5 p.m. Dec. 21 along Broad Street. There will be strolling musicians, hay wagon rides and a bonfire. Free admission. Telephone (800) 655-NJOY.

PASO ROBLES--It may seem like Christmas past, but it’s Christmas present at the Vine Street Victorian Showcase, 6-9 p.m. Saturday along Vine Street from 8th to 21st streets. Free popcorn, hot apple cider and other refreshments will be offered. Entertainment includes hay rides and trolley car rides, community bands, carolers, storytellers and Santa. Free. The jolly one also makes a stop at the Teddy Bear Tea, 2-4 p.m. Dec. 20. The event features storytelling, theatrical performances for kids and more at Paso Robles Library, 1000 Spring St. Free tickets for the tea must be picked up in advance at downtown businesses. Tel. (805) 238-4103.

OXNARD--In its 32nd year, the Parade of Lights has expanded to two days, 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Decorated vessels will glide through Channel Islands Harbor, at Harbor and Channel Islands boulevards. Weekend activities at Harbor Landing, 2800 S. Harbor Blvd., include caroling, Santa, arts and crafts vendors and live music; noon-9 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. next Sunday. Free. Tel. (800) 994-4852.

KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARK--The annual get-together next Sunday at the base of General Grant Tree features a nondenominational service and placement of a memorial wreath in honor of slain veterans. There will also be caroling, and other music; 2:30 p.m. at the park off California 180, 50 miles east of Sanger. Park admission is free before the event. Tel. (209) 875-4575.

OCEAN BEACH--The 18th annual Holiday Parade, 5 p.m. Saturday, gets a bit wacky, with about 80 entries ranging from high school marching bands and Harley riders to the Geriatric Surf and Drill Team. The procession begins at Newport Avenue and Sunset Cliffs Boulevard and ends three blocks later at the beach. Free. Tel. (619) 226-0080.

Call listed phone numbers for directions.