Events
Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! On the Radio
Dec. 24. It’s your last chance to listen in to the Grinch! A San Diego holiday tradition for more than 20 years, the beloved musical pivoted to an audio format this year. Gather the family around the radio for The Old Globe theater’s final installment on Christmas Eve. The production is directed by James Vásquez, with book and lyrics by Timothy Mason, and music by Mel Marvin. The performance can be heard for free on KPBS Radio 89.5 FM, on the KPBS website and app, and on smart speakers. 6 p.m. theoldglobe.org
It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play
Through Dec. 27. Based on the original film, this timeless Christmas tale comes to life in a streaming production—adapted by Joe Landry and directed by Cygnet Theatre’s Sean Murray. In it, we get to know George Bailey—a man down on his luck and deeply depressed—and Clarence, an angel who helps him see the light. Staged as a live radio play in the 1940s, the production is highlighted by music, live sound effects, and a small, versatile cast who perform dozens of characters. Call the Cygnet box office for ticket pricing. 619.337.1525. cygnettheatre.com
Outdoor Fun at Liberty Station
Ongoing. With nearly 50 acres of outdoor park space alone, Liberty Station is a prime destination to enjoy some socially distanced fresh air and exercise. You can also order takeout or delivery from dozens of eateries; or simply stroll the campus for artsy discoveries. We suggest the self-guided Salute the Season Art Walk along the north and south promenades—home to 12 outdoor art installations inspired by the “Twelve Days of Christmas” carol. (Pictured: Thrown into the Clay by artist Leah Schaperow.) The art walk is free and on view through Jan. 10. 2850 Roosevelt Road, Point Loma. libertystation.com
Food + Drink
New Year’s Offerings from Nolita Hall
Preorder by Dec. 28. Let executive chef Moira Hill do the cooking, with several menu options to ring in 2021. The Nolita NYE dinner package includes a bottle of prosecco, shareable platters, hors d’oeuvres and dessert; plus a party kit filled with 2021 tiaras, hats, horns and necklaces. And order the New Year’s Day French toast platter with all the fixings (including bacon and Nutella!)—plus add-ons such as make-your-own-cocktail kits. Keep an eye out for the “F*ck 2020” pizza pop-up (Dec. 31-Jan. 3), featuring menu items cheekily named for some of 2020’s defining moments. 2305 India St., Little Italy, 619.255.8000. Order Online
“Addison at Home”
Now Available. San Diego’s only Michelin-starred restaurant, Addison, now offers takeout for the first time in its 14-year history. The “Addison at Home” experience comprises a four-course, fine-dining-quality menu by executive chef William Bradley and his team. The menu theme changes each week and promises a few surprises. Add-ons include wine—selected by wine director Victoria O’Bryan—from Addison’s award-winning cellar; and house-made cinnamon rolls to enjoy the following morning. Available for pickup Th-Su. Starting at $89 per person. 5200 Grand Del Mar Way, Del Mar, 858.314.1900. addisonathome.com
Festive Cocktails from Madison
Now Available. The campy-cool neighborhood lounge and eatery is serving several fun libations, ideal for sipping while snuggling at home. Try the signature Madison Old Fashioned, made with 1776 rye bourbon, pecan-wood-smoked maple syrup and cherry-bark-vanilla bitters; and the Carajillo (pictured), with Licor 43, espresso and orange peel. Madison is also offering its Mediterranean-infused SoCal cuisine (try the panko-crusted pork chop), wine and additional cocktails to-go—including all the garnishes. Takeout available Tu-Su 5-9:30 p.m. 4622 Park Blvd., University Heights, 619.269.6566. madisononpark.com
Holiday Drinks from Mr. Trustee
Now Available. Enjoy some holiday cheer in a cup with a seasonal drink from the ice cream shop’s walkup window. The menu includes marshmallow hot chocolate with a graham-cracker cookie; candy-cane hot chocolate with peppermint Chantilly cream; and hot apple cider with an apple slice, cinnamon stick and orange peel. Adults have the option to add some “spirit” to any drink, with a shot of Baileys Irish Cream or Maker’s Mark. Available to-go M-Th 4-9 p.m.; F-Su noon-8 p.m. $6 each (boozy add-ons are an additional $6). 4033 Goldfinch St., Mission Hills, 619.259.5544. More Info
Meal Kits from Shabu-Works
Now Available. Laying low on Christmas Day? Shabu-Works is here for you. The eatery will be open to offer its signature hot-pot home kits for pickup and delivery. Shabu-shabu is the traditional Japanese hot-pot concept in which thinly sliced vegetables and meats are boiled in water and served with dipping sauces. Shabu-Works’ meal kits include an assortment of fresh veggies, handmade noodles, premium proteins and traditional soup broths; plus the option to purchase a personal stove and pot set. Kits serve up to six people and start at $45. 9841 Mira Mesa Blvd., Mira Mesa, 858.860.5730. shabuworks.com
To-Go Offerings from Bleu Boheme
Now Available. From family-style holiday meals to its famous basil martinis made with French vodka, this beloved bistro is serving all kinds of culinary delights for takeout and delivery. Each family meal (serving up to four people) includes a choice of appetizer, entree and dessert; along with a freshly baked French baguette. Popular picks include escargot, roasted beet salad, boneless short ribs braised in red wine, and shiitake-and-oyster-mushroom ravioli. Save room for the warm brioche bread pudding for dessert. Takeout available Tu-Sa 5-8 p.m. 4090 Adams Ave., Kensington, 619.255.4167. bleuboheme.com
Arts + Culture
Mission Fed ArtWalk’s Virtual Edition
Through Dec. 31. Browse for fine art by more than 100 local artists from the comfort of home with this virtual art show. The marketplace showcases paintings, sculptures, photography, mixed media, jewelry, glass, metalwork, ceramics and much more—all available for purchase. Participating artists include Daniel Marquez, Alexander Salazar, David Silvah and Elizabeth Sullivan. While virtually visiting, art lovers can enjoy music performances by Gregory Page, Jason Mraz, Steve Poltz and more; plus dance performances and art activities for kids. (See website for daily schedule). More Info
San Diego Symphony NYE Concert
Upcoming | Dec. 31. End the year on a high note with the San Diego Symphony. Conducted by music director Rafael Payare, the live-stream concert begins with Hungarian Dances by Johannes Brahms and Duke Ellington’s Sophisticated Lady. Pianist Ray Ushikubo then joins to perform Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue. The program ends with Emperor Waltz and the Radetzky March. Reserve your stream with a $25 donation. (All donations will be matched dollar for dollar by an anonymous donor through the Symphony Stabilization Fund.) 7:30 p.m. sandiegosymphony.org
Photo credits: Nolita Hall by James Tran. The Grinch at The Old Globe by Jim Cox. All other images are courtesy of the businesses and venues featured.
