Sausalito's much anticipated Winterfest is taking place December 9th through the 11th. A weekend bursting with festivity, highlights include the Naughty and Nice Ball and the legendary Sausalito Lighted Boat Parade and fireworks display on the San Francisco Bay.

Winterfest is the consummate community holiday event attracting locals and visitors alike to stay, play and shop local during the “most wonderful time of year” in Sausalito. 

Naughty or Nice Ball

Friday evening, December 9th from 6:30 to 10:30pm

Staged under the “Big Tent” along the scenic waterfront in the downtown Sausalito Yacht Harbor Marina, Winterfest Weekend begins Friday evening, December 9, with the Naughty or Nice Ball.  This glamorous gala is star-studded with attendees wearing their best dresses and swanky attire. This year's theme is “Ho Ho Hollywood” and celebrates the golden age of Hollywood with well-known Michael Jackson tribute band, Foreverland.  Fifteen favorite local restaurants cater the evening's dining, hosted bars, music, dancing and live entertainment. One of the most celebrated Christmas parties in Marin County, proceeds going to The Sausalito On the Waterfront educational programs for children.

Marin Kids Making Merry

Saturday, December 10th 10am to 2pm

Marin Kids Making Merry is a free public event for families and children of all ages. Taking place under the "Big Tent" will be cookie decorating, holiday arts & crafts, storytelling, live music and entertainment. Of course, Kris Kringle will find time in his business schedule to make a special appearance. While kids drink hot cocoa, parents enjoy spiced hot mulled wine.Once the event comes to a close, continue the family fun with the  Gingerbread House Tour through town, doing a bit of holiday shopping at local boutiques along the way.

29th Annual Sausalito Lighted Boat Parade & Fireworks

Saturday, December 10th at 6:30pm

Later that evening, the San Francisco Bay is lit up with sparkling lights during the 29th Annual Sausalito Lighted Boat Parade & Fireworks. Dozens of beautifully decorated boats make their way along the scenic shoreline in front of the Sausalito Yacht Club and the Winterfest tent in the center of town. The Winterfest arena is open to the public that evening, offering a warm, festive location for watching the parade. There will be food, drink, live music and dancing. The popular local band, Mustache Harbor, will be providing entertainment for the evening and VIP viewing areas for private parties and groups will fill up fast.

5K Jingle Run Brunch

Sunday, December 11th, Race begins at 8:30am, Brunch is from 9:45 to 11am

The weekend wraps up with the Winterfest 5K walk/run along the Sausalito waterfront and a brunch in the Winterfest tent. Both events benefit local children's educational programs; the Dipsea Kidz at-risk-youth program and the Waterfront Foundation Youth Education Fund, which teaches children from all walks of life about sailing, nautical skills, the marine ecosystems of the bay, environmental sustainability and stewardship.

For tickets, to reserve VIP viewing space, race registration and more information on Winterfest programs visit www.WinterfestSausalito.com.

Article excerpts from Marin Scope Sausalito.