By Dave Karraker and Terrance Alan–
The holidays are upon us, and the Castro is ready for another bright, joyful, and busy season as we greet residents and tourists to the city’s most famous neighborhood for shopping, drinking, dining, and unbridled merriment, including scores of events:
At the heart of all the festivities will be our traditional 20-foot-tall holiday tree, resplendent in twinkling lights and vibrant decorations, welcoming everyone to the Castro to celebrate. The official tree lighting ceremony, hosted by Mayor London Breed, will take place on Monday, November 28, at 6 pm. The Mayor will be joined by other dignitaries and musical guests, including our hostess with the mostest, the incomparable Donna Sachet, leading everyone in holiday songs. The tree is located at the corner of 18th and Castro Streets. Just look for the tree (obviously) and our giant banner on the side of Bank of America featuring our welcome message and all the amazing sponsors who made this possible. The tree will remain lit through New Year’s Day.
This year’s tree is dedicated to the memory of long-time Castro Merchants administrator Richard Magary, who passed away in December 2021.
The fun doesn’t end there! Be sure to join us at our monthly Castro Art Mart on Sunday, December 4, on Noe Street at Market Street, where we close down the block and feature LGBTQ artists and allies presenting gifts for anyone on your shopping list. The Castro Art Marts are the first Sunday of every month from noon to 5 pm.
On Sunday, December 18, Castro Merchants will be hosting its second-annual Castro Winter Wonderland, also on Noe Street at Market from 11 am to 5 pm. This event has something for the whole family, including free photos with Santa, activities for the kiddos, and amazing drag and live performances for everyone.
The very next night, on December 19, we will be co-hosting with Sha’ar Zahav (our local Congregation that welcomes all) the Castro Hanukkah Menorah Lighting starting at 6 pm at Jane Warner Plaza (Castro at 17th/Market Streets).
The Castro will sparkle brightly this year, greeting everyone with our new market lights strung throughout the neighborhood, providing a warm glow on a chilly night as folks stroll the neighborhood.
From fashion, to housewares, to plants, to wine, to books, to art, to gift certificates, the Castro truly has something for everyone on your mailing list. All of the small businesses in San Francisco were hit so hard during the pandemic, so we encourage folks to get off their computer screens and Buy Local.
With tons of great restaurants, cafés, watering holes, bakeries, spas, salons, and a legendary theatre, what could possibly be more fun than making an entire day of it in the Castro? There are so many new businesses in the neighborhood since last holiday, along with long-time favorites, so you are sure to find plenty to do.
We truly hope to see you in the Castro this holiday to spread some holiday cheer with us and to support all our small businesses. Come out and play in the Castro!
Dave Karraker and Terrance Alan are the Co-Presidents of Castro Merchants: www.castromerchants.com
Published on November 17, 2022
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