People all over Humboldt are feeling the crisp and crunchy chill as clear skies and cool temps bring icy mornings. Twinkle lights and Holiday cheer are hard to miss as we go out and about anyway – busy with the happenings of seasonal events, extra parties and gatherings, and the energy of our community as we find each other again in a post-pandemic semblance of normal.
Local Holiday Craft Fair List and Shop Local Guide is LIVE
There are a TON of holiday-related events happening this weekend – including numerous Craft Fairs and Santa Sightings. Check out this page for a list of local craft fairs and more!
Special Events This Weekend
PLEASE NOTE: The Trucker’s Parade was listed for the incorrect day in last week’s newsletter. The parade is happening this Saturday, 12/10, and NOT on 12/11 as posted last week. Apologies for any inconvenience this may have caused.
Friday 12/9
ART AND FILM OPEN HOUSE AT CAL POLY HUMBOLDT
5-7:30P Join the Cal Poly Art+Film department for an open house. The event is free and open to the public. Cal Poly Art+Film students would love to show both their peers and the surrounding community what they’ve been working on as well as show off their studio spaces. There will be food, a holiday sale with work by students, and other fun happenings.
A1 GREY ELECTRIC LIGHTED PARADE
5P/6:30P You are invited to participate in the Al Gray Electric Lighted Parade to be held in Fortuna beginning at 6:30 pm! Any floats, tractors, trucks, bikes, or scooters that are decked out for the holidays are welcome to join in on the fun. All parade entries must be mobile, lighted, and not more than 12 feet high and 10 feet wide. All entries should be decorated so that spectators on both sides of the street can view them. All entries are expected to have signage (banner, poster, vehicle decals, logos, etc.), whether carried or attached to the float/vehicle, signifying who or what organization they are representing. There is no entry fee to participate in the parade. This is a “rain or shine” event so please plan for inclement weather. You have until 11:59P on 12/8, to fill out and submit your online entry form! Late entries will not be accepted. You may download a paper copy and turn it into the Fortuna Chamber office at 735 14th Street.
THE BALLAD OF FLINT WESTWARD AND THE FIVE WHO MADE THEIR WAY
7P Arcata Playhouse presents its 16th annual holiday show production. A holiday event for the whole family, this original musical production written and directed by James Peck is set in the Wild West of an old Humboldt town. Flint Westward works in a Launderette in a company town, and he is in love with the daughter of the tyrant town manager. In order to win her love he must go on an adventure with his friends, a buffalo, a strong man, a hypnotist, and a gastronomist, to find the fabled Jack-a-lope…but can he get back in time? This show is a play-houseful of fun to celebrate the holidays, with song, dance, magical animals, guest artists, and the beautiful sounds of the Blue Lake community choir. Complete with plenty of audience participation, and a dynamic cast of all ages, this is one family show you won’t want to miss. $12, $10 members, and $8 15 and under. Available at Wildberries Marketplace or reserve at (707) 822-1575. For information and online tickets visit www.arcataplayhouse.org. Also happening 12/16-18.
7P North Coast Dance presents its annual holiday tradition: The Nutcracker! Join us for an exciting ballet full of familiar favorites and fresh new twists. This year’s production features a fantastic cast of local dancers. Whether you come every year or are starting a brand new tradition, log in at https://ticketpeak.co/northcoastdance/events to order your tickets. 12/9-12/18
ARTS ARCATA – The 2nd Friday of every month, on the Plaza, 4-8P
Saturday 12/10
FORTUNA THEATER KID’S FREE MOVIE
Doors 9A, Showtime 10A – Free showing of Minions: The Rise of Gru for kids 12 and under. Pick up a ticket at participating businesses. Free family portraits before the movie. Free junior-sized popcorn, soda and a holiday toy.
FRIENDS OF THE REDWOODS LIBRARIES HOLIDAY BOOK SALE
10A-3:30P One day only! Holiday Book Sale. Everyone welcome. Sale will be in the Meeting Room at the Eureka Library. Everyone welcome. Membership not required but memberships will be accepted and new members will receive a free book. The sale will feature a large selection of Nonfiction, Children’s Books, CDs, DVDs, and more. All books 50 cents with Media and softcover books priced at just 25 cents. Pay by cash or check; small bills appreciated. Selection will include Art, Science, History, Biography, Literature, Religion, Cookbooks, Crafts, Foreign Languages, and more. Proceeds support entire Humboldt County Library System.
NORTH COAST DANCE: HOLIDAY DANCE RECITAL
11A – At the Arkley Center For the Performing Arts in Eureka. Also happening on 12/17.
HUMBOLDT COUNTY ANIMAL SHELTER’S ANNUAL HOLIDAY FUNDRAISER
12-4P Join the Humboldt County Animal Shelter’s Annual Fundraiser for the Emergency Medical Fund, administered by the non-profit Friends for Life Animal Rescue. This event will feature a raffle, online silent auction, and refreshments. Additionally, adoptable cats will be on display and dogs on parade (weather permitting). Raffle tickets may be purchased at the shelter Monday – Friday, 12/5-12/9 (need not be present to win). Online Silent Auction at https://flar.betterworld.org/ Want to help but cannot attend? You can donate directly to Friends For Life 501 (c)(3) Emergency Medical Fund at www.dogrescuers.org (Please specify donation is for “EMF”)
COZY CRAFTS: LEARN TO MAKE CINNAMON STICK CANDLES
2:30P – It might be dark and chilly outside, so why not add some warmth and color to your home! Learn how to make cinnamon stick candles or paper star decorations to decorate your table. All supplies will be provided. There is limited seating, so be sure to reserve your spot here: https://forms.gle/dSLBdSqDSC8dFCTc6 Ages 14+.
COZY CRAFTS: LEARN TO MAKE PAPER STAR DECORATIONS
DAVID JOSIAH LAWSON COAT DRIVE
3-5P Justice for Josiah will be holding this 5th Annual Event honoring the life and legacy of David Josiah Lawson through compassion and care. Please help us create care packages of warm clothes and supplies for unhoused community members and any community members in need.
BIKE PARTY TO THE TRUCKER PARADE
5P Let’s light up our bikes and ride together to watch the Trucker Parade! We will stop at the home of a bike party regular who lives along the route for the parade itself. Refreshments will be provided. You may bring treats to share. If you would like to drop off the treats the day before, send us a message on our facebook or instagram acct 
Please be respectful of their space we ride rain or shine! bring warm layers.
FERNDALE DANCE ACADEMY PRESENTS: ONCE UPON A DECEMBER
5-6:30P Celebrate the holidays with dance! This family friendly event features performances by both students and professional FDA dancers. Tickets can easily be purchased at the door with cash or check. $15 Children 3 and under are free. At The Eureka High Auditorium.
6P The 2022 Christmas Trucker’s Parade is On! The 34th Annual Trucker’s Parade will be held in Eureka, CA starting at Redwood Acres. To get your truck entered into the parade, download the entry form and mail it to Rex & Friends Trucker’s Christmas Parade, P.O.Box 6024, Eureka, CA 95502 along with your entry fee check of $35 (benefits Boys & Girls Club) made out to Rex & Friends. For questions leave a message or text 707-599-4171 or email [email protected]. We hope to see you there, and you can check out the event live-streamed if are unable to join us!
7P – “10 Moons” is an original aerial dance show, featuring performance vignettes revealing 10 perspectives on the moon.
Shadow puppets by James Hildebrandt and Laura Muñoz, lighting by Spike Foster, and original music by Ryan Hash
Synapsis Collective Aerialists: Angie Valetutto, Cindy Norvell, Jill Grady, Katie Elizabeth, Kitsu Colby, Leslie Castellano, Melanie Zapper, Stella Sween, Zion Poff
THE BALLAD OF FLINT WESTWARD AND THE FIVE WHO MADE THEIR WAY
7P Arcata Playhouse presents its 16th annual holiday show production. A holiday event for the whole family, this original musical production written and directed by James Peck is set in the Wild West of an old Humboldt town. Flint Westward works in a Launderette in a company town, and he is in love with the daughter of the tyrant town manager. In order to win her love he must go on an adventure with his friends, a buffalo, a strong man, a hypnotist, and a gastronomist, to find the fabled Jack-a-lope…but can he get back in time? This show is a play-houseful of fun to celebrate the holidays, with song, dance, magical animals, guest artists, and the beautiful sounds of the Blue Lake community choir. Complete with plenty of audience participation, and a dynamic cast of all ages, this is one family show you won’t want to miss. $12, $10 members, and $8 15 and under. Available at Wildberries Marketplace or reserve at (707) 822-1575. For information and online tickets visit www.arcataplayhouse.org. Also happening 12/16-18.
7P Doors, 8-11P Showtime, VaVaVoom Burlesque Vixens present Tease the Season, a wondrous, wintry burlesque revue.
8P A play about Emily Dickinson by William Luce. Performed by Toodie Ball. Come celebrate Emily’s birthday. Share tea and stories of her life and loves. “A love affair with language.” At The Exit Theater in Arcata. $15.
Sunday and into the week beyond…
SECOND SUNDAYS SONGWRITER’S SHARING CIRCLE
10:30A-12P – An in-person sharing space for songwriters to play original songs. Structured into six-minute blocks per person on a vetted sign-up format (no walk ups). A chance to play live with an audience who support the songwriting process. Details on Facebook page in link. This is an ongoing event at Abundance Upcycle Boutique Blue Lake. Free/Donation.
KIDS AND PARENTS BRAZILIAN JUJITSU WORKSHOP
11A-12:30P – Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) is considered the most effective martial arts in the world. It’s considered non-violent because no strikes or kicks are included. Smaller people can use leverage and technique to get out of the grasp of an attacker and even subdue them. Students can expect to get a good basic understanding of BJJ along with learning confidence, gaining skills and making friends. Instructor is 3rd Degree Black Belt from Rio de Janeiro, Marcello Daflon (head instructor at HJJ Academy. He has taught martial arts to youth all over the world. $10
THE BALLAD OF FLINT WESTWARD AND THE FIVE WHO MADE THEIR WAY
2P Arcata Playhouse presents its 16th annual holiday show production. A holiday event for the whole family, this original musical production written and directed by James Peck is set in the Wild West of an old Humboldt town. Flint Westward works in a Launderette in a company town, and he is in love with the daughter of the tyrant town manager. In order to win her love he must go on an adventure with his friends, a buffalo, a strong man, a hypnotist, and a gastronomist, to find the fabled Jack-a-lope…but can he get back in time? This show is a play-houseful of fun to celebrate the holidays, with song, dance, magical animals, guest artists, and the beautiful sounds of the Blue Lake community choir. Complete with plenty of audience participation, and a dynamic cast of all ages, this is one family show you won’t want to miss. $12, $10 members, and $8 15 and under. Available at Wildberries Marketplace or reserve at (707) 822-1575. For information and online tickets visit www.arcataplayhouse.org. Also happening 12/16-18.
FERNDALE DANCE ACADEMY PRESENTS: ONCE UPON A DECEMBER
2-3:30P Celebrate the holidays with dance! This family friendly event features performances by both students and professional FDA dancers. Tickets can easily be purchased at the door with cash or check. $15 Children 3 and under are free. At The Eureka High Auditorium.
2P & 7P – “10 Moons” is an original aerial dance show, featuring performance vignettes revealing 10 perspectives on the moon.
Shadow puppets by James Hildebrandt and Laura Muñoz, lighting by Spike Foster, and original music by Ryan Hash
Synapsis Collective Aerialists: Angie Valetutto, Cindy Norvell, Jill Grady, Katie Elizabeth, Kitsu Colby, Leslie Castellano, Melanie Zapper, Stella Sween, Zion Poff
2P A play about Emily Dickinson by William Luce. Performed by Toodie Ball. Come celebrate Emily’s birthday. Share tea and stories of her life and loves. “A love affair with language.” At The Exit Theater in Arcata. $15.
FORTUNA CHRISTMAS MUSIC FESTIVAL
2:30-5:30P Christmas music from the Scotia Band, Mariachi Real de Mexico, All-Seasons Orchestra and a festival finale. The Festival brings together a selection of talent from all over Humboldt County to deliver a musical holiday gift to the community at Fortuna’s River Lodge. The festival is free, but several charitable groups benefit from donations at the event: refreshments benefit the Fortuna Junior Academy and cash donations are accepted for the Santa’s Sleigh toy and clothing drive.
6-8P Enjoy a visit from Santa and a parade though Trinidad with lighted fishing boats on trailers. Santa and his elves will pass out candy canes. Music by Bandemonium and the Cal Poly Humboldt Marching Lumberjacks.
Save the Date!
MOSAIC WORKSHOP
12/15 – 5-7P Come make a beautiful mosaic heart rock for someone on your holiday list this season! This is a laid back crafting (and drinking ) event. A drink voucher is included with your workshop ticket, so come sample 6River’s best brews while you work. Crafters can arrive anytime between 5-7P (please allow roughly 45 minutes to complete the workshop) Choose from a rainbow of stained glass, pick a bead border and add any trinkets you like. All supplies are provided! All ages welcome. Please email Katie at [email protected] to reserve your spot. Cost, $40.
ARTS ALIVE – SOUTHERN HUMBOLDT
12/17 – 2P As part of our Small Town Christmas Celebration local businesses will be hosting local artists for all to enjoy on Saturday, December 17th. Give the gift of art this holiday season and support local artisans. The best way to spread holiday cheer is to shop local!
…THERE IS DEFINITELY MORE!!
YOU’LL WANT TO KEEP SCROLLING FOR THE FULL LIST OF EVENTS HAPPENING LOCALLY, INCLUDING ONGOING OPPORTUNITIES, A LIST JUST FOR KIDS, AND THE LIVE MUSIC AND MORE IN THE LINKS BELOW. UPDATED WEEKLY!
LIVE MUSIC/ETC
Looking for a live show? We’re updating this page constantly, trying to include all of the local venues we can find, with their latest events listed in an easy-to-read way. There continues to be more and more happenings throughout Humboldt including a huge variety of music, comedy, open mics, outdoor venues, trivia and more.
JUST FOR KIDS
This list of ideas of ways to keep your kids happy includes a wide variety of options all over Humboldt.
ONGOING EVENTS
Ongoing events are the backbone of our community’s offerings. Click through to find the list broken down by each town/city and see what kind of ongoing happenings, workshops, classes, etc are in the works where you live.
STAY BUSY, LEARN A SKILL, MEET SOMEONE NEW!
VOLUNTEER/DONATE
Our amazing local non-profits are always hosting an array of events that benefit the people and land of our community. We’re lucky to have so many powerful and supportive groups that keep the backbone of Humboldt alive and well. Consider offering a few hours of your time, donating cash or goods or participating in a fundraiser for any number of our community organizations.
This newsletter is a free weekly offering to our Humboldt Community! We hope you love it. If you’d like to add an event, or if you have pictures to share, or feedback to offer, we’re all ears – our email is [email protected] and we want to know what you think.
