Calendar

COLUMBIA, CALIF.

A Miner’s Christmas

When, where: Dec. 12, 13, 19 and 20, Columbia State Historic Park

Highlights: In this Gold Country town, costumed docents reenact the holidays in an 1850s mining camp, with storytelling, chestnut-roasting, cider-drinking and music performances. For kids, there are 19th century games and toys, and the chance to make candy canes and Victorian crafts.

Cost: Free

Info: (209) 588-9128, www.parks.ca.gov

SAN FRANCISCO

Renegade Craft Fair

When, where: Dec. 19 and 20, Fort Mason Center Herbst Pavilion

Highlights: More than 150 crafters converge to sell their creative wares to holiday shoppers.

Cost: Free

Info: www.renegadecraft.com

SCOTTSDALE, ARIZ.

Phantastic Masquerade Ball

When, where: Dec. 31, W Scottsdale

Highlights: Ring in 2010 with dinner in the ballroom, a hosted reception, exciting performances, VIP access to the after-party at the pool and a midnight Champagne toast.

Cost: $799 per couple ($649 per single), including all of the above, plus overnight accommodations, a masquerade mask and a 4 p.m. checkout.

Info: (480) 970-2100, www.whotels.com/scottsdale

DEL MAR, CALIF.

Holiday of Lights

When, where: Nightly through Jan. 3, Del Mar Fairgrounds

Highlights: The West Coast’s largest animated drive-through light show delights with more than 400 displays along the 1 1/2 -mile route. There are also carolers, fire pits for roasting marshmallows and Santa’s Pub and Piano Bar.

Cost: $14 per car with up to five people; $19 per vehicle with six or more; $10 per person for a hayride, which includes the Holiday of Lights tour, hot chocolate or cider and a cookie; infants ride free

Info: (858) 755-1161, www.sdfair.com/holidayoflights

SOLVANG, CALIF.

Julefest Celebration

When, where: Through Jan. 8, throughout Solvang

Highlights: This annual event in America’s Danish capital features concerts, caroling, open houses at local shops and galleries, holiday decorations and open wine-tasting rooms. The Nativity Pageant is Dec. 12 and the Winter Solstice Candlelighting is Dec. 18.

Cost: Free

Info: (800) 468-6765, www.solvangusa.com

-- Avital Binshtock itinerary@latimes.com