California Corner

OCEANSIDE--The Mission Christmas Faire, Nov. 18-19, takes place outside the largest of the Southern California missions. Festivities will include more than 200 crafts and food vendors; Santa and Mrs. Claus; and a children’s snow-play area. Mission San Luis Rey de Francia, 4050 Mission Ave. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Free. (760) 721-1101.

SONORA--The Christmas Craft & Music Festival, Nov. 24-26, will offer about 250 arts and crafts booths, music, puppeteers and jugglers. Mother Lode Fairgrounds. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Nov. 24-25; 10-5 p.m. Nov. 26. $6; $4 seniors; $1 ages 6-12. (209) 533-3473.

CRESCENT CITY--The Christmas Light Parade Nov. 24 will feature more than 50 lighted floats, vehicles and marching units. There will also be a Christmas tree lighting, cider, hot chocolate and cookies. 6:30-8 p.m. Free. (707) 464-5680.

INDIO--Native Americans from around the country will perform traditional dances and songs at the Indio Powwow, Nov. 24-26. Foods, arts and crafts will also be for sale. Cabazon Band of Mission Indians Reservation, 84245 Indio Springs Parkway. 5 p.m.-midnight Nov. 24; 11 p.m.-midnight Nov. 25; 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Nov. 26. $4; $3 seniors; $2 ages 7-12; 6 and younger free. (800) 827-2946.

SAN RAFAEL--About 100,000 pounds of snow will be trucked in for the Parade of Lights and Winter Wonderland, Nov. 24-25. Santa will arrive at 5:30 p.m. Nov. 24, and everyone will receive a candle for caroling. There will also be a holiday market (4-8 p.m. Nov. 24) and sledding both days. Noon-8 p.m. Nov. 24; 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Nov. 25. Downtown. Free. (415) 457-2266.

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Schenden’s e-mail address is lkschenden@msn.com.