Saturday Dec. 15

Take a break from crazy Christmas parties and scout out this fancy five-course dinner taking place at a secret location in the Mission. Up-and-coming chef/writer Aida Mollenkamp has partnered with the Stag Dining Group to create a dreamy holiday menu including faux pho, caramelized fennel tarte tatin, and shortcake (and that's not all). Aida will also pepper you with tips and tidbits on cooking and entertaining throughout the dinner. $125 dinner includes champs and wine pairings. Buy tickets here.

Sunday Dec. 16

Forget the crowded mall, head to Tomales Bay where Santa Claus is coming to town. Santa will pull up to the dock at Nick's Cove in his water sleigh, then kids and parents can dictate their wish list to Santa in the festively decorated Boat Shack and enjoy complimentary apple cider, hot chocolate, and treats. Guests who bring a canned food donation for the Marin Food Bank will receive 15% discount on any food and bevvy purchase throughout the day. Santa's visit 3 - 5 pm, restaurant open 10 am - 9 pm. 23240 Highway 1, Marshall. 

Monday Dec. 17

Bet you didn’t know that Kikkoman soy sauce, the preferred sushi dipper of basically everyone, is not only one of the world’s oldest brands but is based in SF. Celebrate its legacy at the debut of Make Haste Slowly: The Kikkoman Creed, a short heritage film by Academy Award-nominated director Lucy Walker. Ozumo’s executive chef Yo Matsuzaki will prepare small plates and a traditional sake ceremony will take place. Must RSVP here. 5 – 7 pm, Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, 701 Mission St.

Tuesday, Dec. 18

This week's Feast of Words: A Literary Potluck features Nic Alea who will read from the book "All Trees, No Pianos" and will lead a writing exercise on the theme "Naughty or Nice." The anchor of the potluck will be a warm herbal soup, courtesy of Jane Lin of Mama Tong Soup. As usual, guests can bring a dish and share their work. $10 advance, $5 with potluck dish, $12 at the door, cash bar. Purchase tickets here. SOMArts Cultural Center, 934 Brannan St.