Whether you're feeling the holiday spirit or reveling in humbuggery, reeling toward the new year or battening down the hatches for a post-Mayan zombie apocalypse, take a break from boycotting the Salvation Army or binge-shopping to enjoy some holiday entertainments in diverse religious and not-so religious themes.

Thu 20: A Down Home Christmas
with Nell & Jim @ Aurora Theatre Company

Nell Robinson and Jim Nunally's concert of classic country holiday duos and original songs, at the theatre company's new upstairs cabaret space, Harry's UpStage. $25-$28. 7:30pm. Thru Dec 21. 2081 Addison St. (510) 843-4822. www.auroratheatre.org

Fri 21: Holiday Concerts @ Davies Symphony Hall

Festive, non-traditional, and participatory concerts include: Dec 21, Mariachi Sol de Mexico, 7:30pm ($15-$70). Dec 22, 11am, The Snowman, and animated film about a boy's friendship with a snowman ($27-$57). Dec 22, 7:30, Dec 23, 4pm and Dec 24, 2pm, 'Twas the Night, a special Christmas carol-filled sing-along night ($15-$70). 201 Van Ness Ave. 864-6000. www.sfsymphony.org

Fri 21: Mittens and Mistletoe @ Dance
Mission Theatre

A Winter Circus Cabaret, Sweet Can Productions' light-hearted kid-friendly holiday romp, with jugglers, clowns, trapeze artists and more. $15-$20. 8pm. Also Dec 22, 4pm. Dec 23 & 24 at 2pm & 4pm. 3316 24th St. 225-7281. www.sweetcanproductions.com

Fri 21: Strange Christmas @ Oddball Films

Enjoy a screening of odd unusual and vintage Christmas-themed short films featuring Laurel & Hardy, Frank Sinatra and Bing Crosby, battling toys, and cartoons galore. $10. 8pm. 275 Capp St. 558-8117. www.oddballfilms.blogspot.com

Fri 21: Various Films @ Castro Theatre

They Live (7:30) and Miracle Mile (9:20). Dec 22, Sketchfest presents holiday-themed flicks: Bad Santa, Scrooged, Emmet Otter's Jug Band Christmas and The Bells of Fraggle Rock, and Elf (all-day pass $40). Dec 26, Singin' in the Rain (4 screenings). Dec 27, Gentlemen Prefer Blondes (3pm, 7pm) and King Kong (original; 4:50, 8:50). $8-$12. 429 Castro St. www.castrotheatre.com

Sat 22: Beach Blanket Babylon
@ Club Fugazi

Musical comedy revue, now in its 35th year, with an ever-changing lineup of political and pop culture icons, all in gigantic wigs; special holiday-themed shows. Reg: $25-$130. Wed, Thu, Fri at 8pm. Sat 6:30, 9:30pm. Sun 2pm, 5pm. (Beer/wine served; cash only). 678 Beach Blanket Babylon Blvd (Green St.). 421-4222. www.beachblanketbabylon.com

Sat 22: Great Dickens Christmas Fair @ Cow Palace

Large-scale showcase of booths, sales, displays, food and entertainment, all with a Dickensian vintage holiday theme. $12-$80. ($10 parking). Sat & Sun 10am-7pm. Thru Dec 23. 2600 Geneva Ave. (800) 510-1558. www.dickensfair.com

Sat 22: It's a Wonderful Life @ Marin Theatre Company, Mill Valley

Radio play stage adaptation of the Frank Capra film about Christmas and guardian angels, with five actors portraying dozens of characters. $36-$57. Tue, Thu-Sat 8pm. Wed 7:30pm. Sun 7pm. Thru Dec 23. 397 Miller Ave., Mill Valley. 388-5208. www.marintheatre.org

Sun 23: Christmas With the Crawfords @ Martuni's

Katya Smirnoff-Skyy, Mark Sargent, Connie Champagne, Trauma Flintstone and tohers perform a cabaret version of the hilarious drag parody of Joan crawford's holiday TV show. 7pm. 4 Valencia St. at Market. http://martunis.ypguides.net/

Mon 24: San Francisco Gay Men's Chorus @ Castro Theatre

SantaConcert, the hip holiday choral concert, with a formal first half, then Santa hilarity, where the 250+ members croon holiday tunes. $25-$27. 5pm, 7pm, 9pm. 429 Castro St. www.sfgmc.org

Kosher & share

Not celebrating the carpenter's son's b-day? No problem, even if you are. Enjoy delish and dish with Chinese food, comedy and wacky songs with a kosher edge, and intriguing art exhibits.

Sat 22: The Kinsey Sicks @ Herbst Theatre

The comic dragapella quartet returns with Oy Vey in a Manger, their holiday music laughfest. $28-$39. 8pm. 401 Van Ness Ave. www.kinseysicks.com

Sat 22: Kung Pao Kosher Comedy @ New Asia Restaurant

20th anniversary of the hilarious, delicious night of Jewish (and other) comedy and Chinese food! Performers include Judy Gold, Scott Blakeman, Mike Capozzola and hostess Lisa Geduldig. $44-$64. Dinner shows 6pm; cocktail shows 9:30 and 8:30pm. Thru Dec 25. Yes, shows on Christmas Day. 772 Pacific Ave., Chinatown. (925) 855-1986. www.koshercomedy.com

Ezra Jack Keats @ Contemporary Jewish Museum

The Snowy Day and the Art of Exra Jack Keats, an exhibit of original artwork from the popular children's book author/illustrator. Thru Feb 24. Also, The Radical Camera: New York's Photo League. Other exhibits (California Dreaming and Black Sabbath) ongoing. Free (members)-$12. Thu-Tue 11am-5pm (Thu 1pm-8pm) 736 Mission St. 655-7800. www.thecjm.org

Events Dec 20–27, 2012

Thu 20

Comedy Bodega @ Esta Nocha

The weekly LGBT and indie comic stand-up night. This week, a benefit for Muttville Senior Dog Rescue featuring Morgan, Anna Seregina, Jesse Elias and Lisa Geduldig. 8pm-9:30pm. 3079 16th St. at Mission. www.comedybodega.com

Dance Brigade @ Dance Mission Theater

Krissy Keefer's political-spiritual dance company performs Voluspa: A Ghost Dance for 2012, a ritual dance performance inspired by Mayan and other ancient cultures. $12-$20. Wed & Thu 7:30pm. Thru Dec 20. 3316 24th St. 826-4441. www.dancemission.com

A Down Home Christmas
with Nell & Jim @ Aurora Theatre Company

Nell Robinson and Jim Nunally's concert of classic country holiday duos and original songs, at the theatre company's new upstairs cabaret space, Harry's UpStage. $25-$28. 7:30pm. Thru Dec 21. 2081 Addison St. (510) 843-4822. www.auroratheatre.org

Fauxgirls @ Infusion Lounge

The classy drag revue (3rd Thursdays) has moved to a new location, and celebrates its 11th year; Victoria Secret, Alexandria, Chanel, Maria Garza, Mini Minerva, Kipper, Daffney Deluxe and Ruby LeBrowne, with special guest Anya; dinner seating at 7pm. Show at 8pm. No cover. 124 Ellis St. 421-8700. www.fauxgirls.com

History: The Musical @ Un-Scripted Theater

Improv theatre company, in a new theatre, performs sketches through different time periods; a different era and show each night. $10-$20. Thu-Sat 8pm. Thru Dec 22. 533 Sutter St. 322-8738. www.un-scripted.com

It's a Wonderful Life @ Marin Theatre Company, Mill Valley

Radio play stage adaptation of the Frank Capra film about Christmas and guardian angels, with five actors portraying dozens of characters. $36-$57. Tue, Thu-Sat 8pm. Wed 7:30pm. Sun 7pm. Thru Dec 23. 397 Miller Ave., Mill Valley. 388-5208. www.marintheatre.org

Justin Vivian Bond @ The Rrazz Room

The transcontinental sensation returns with a new show, Snow Angel. $30. 10pm. 2-drink min. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. (800) 380-3095. www.TheRrazzRoom.com

Leslie Jordan @ The Rrazz Room

The diminuitive actor (Will & Grace ) with a big talent performs his autobiographical show, Fruit Fly. $40-$45. Dec 18-21, 8pm. Dec 22, 7pm & 9:30pm. 2-drink min. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. (800) 380-3095. www.TheRrazzRoom.com

The Lion King @ Orpheum Theatre

Disney's long-running musical (and the highest grossing Broadway show in history) based on the animated film makes a return to the Bay Area. $32.50-$150. Tue-Sat 8pm. Sat 2pm, Sun 1pm. (closed or different times for some holidays). Thru Jan. 13, 2013. (888) 746-1799. www.shnsf.com

Mundo Maya @ Galeria de la Raza

Exhibit celebrating Mayan culture, with works by Latino/Mayan youth. Thru Dec 29. Tue-Sat 12pm-6pm. 2857 24th St. at Bryant. 826-8009. www.galeriadelaraza.org

Nayland Blake @ YBCA

FREE!LOVE!TOOL!BOX!, the former Bay Area artist's new exhibit of conceptual and assembled found-object, personal installations and artworks, each with queer themes, including a DJ booth with his own large record collection. Also, Nathalie Djurberg's amazing colorful creature sculptures. $12-$15. Thru Jan. 27. Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, 701 Mission St. 979-2787. www.naylandblake.net www.ybca.org

Pictorialism @ Robert Tat Gallery

Pictorialism: The Photograph Becomes Art, a new exhibit of historic prints that visualize the posed, artistic aspect of early art photographers (Alfred Stieglitz, Imogen Cunningham and many others). Thru Feb 23. Tue-Sat 11am-5:30pm. (first Thursdays til 7:30pm). 49 Geary St. Suite 410. 781-1122. www.roberttat.com

Fri 21

Chanticleer @ Various Churches

The Grammy-winning men's a cappella vocal ensemble performs Christmas-themed Gregorian chants and historic music. $30-$65. Dec 21, 6pm & 8:30pm at Carmel Mission. Dec 22, 6pm & 8:30pm at Mission Santa Cruz. Dec 23, 8pm at St. Ignatius Church, SF. (800) 407-1400. www.chanticleer.org

A Christmas Carol @ American Conservatory Theatre

A.C.T.'s popular annual production of the stage adaptation of Charles Dickens' classic story about Scrooge's ghostly Christmas Eve visitations. $20-$95 (VIP tix include premiere seating and complimentary intermission drinks). Open-captioned show Dec 16, 5:30pm. Tue-Sat 7pm. Sun 5:30pm. Various 2pm & 1pm matinees. Thru Dec 24. 415 Geary St. 749-2228. www.act-sf.org

Desert Jewels @ MOAD

North African Jewelry and Photography from the Xavier Guerrand-Hermes Collection, an exhibit of nearly 100 pieces of jewelry from Egypt, Tunisia, Morocco and Algeria, plus documentary photographs. Thru Jan 21. $5-$10. Members free. Wed-Sat 11am-6pm. Sun 12pm-5pm. Museum of the African Diaspora, 685 Mission St. 358-7200. www.moadsf.org

End of the World Party @ Hole in the Wall

Actually, it's also bartender Miguel's birthday party, so enjoy. 9pm-2am. 1369 Folsom St. 431-HOWL. www.hitws.com

Fishnet Follies @ The Rrazz Room

Ladies perform a saucy burlesque revue. $30-$45. 10:30pm. 2-drink min. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. (800) 380-3095. www.TheRrazzRoom.com

Foodies, the Musical @ Shelton Theater

Morris Bobrow's musical comedy revue of songs and sketches about food. $32-$34. Fri & Sat 8pm. Open run. 533 Sutter St. (800) 838-3006. www.foodiesthemusical.com

The Hard Nut @ Zellerbach Hall, Berkeley

Returning after a three-year hiatus, Cal Performances presents Mark Morris Dance Group's delightful update, with a '70s style, on the Tchaikovsky score and traditional ballet, with Morris performing as well. $30-$110. Fri-Sun various times. Thru Dec 23. Bancroft Way at Telegraph Ave., UC Berkeley campus. (510) 642-9988. www.calperformances.org

Hedwig and the Angry Inch @ Boxcar Theatre

New local production of John Cameron Mitchell and Stephen Trask's popular transgender rock operetta, with multiple actor-singers perfoming the lead (Arturo Galster, John Lewis, James Mayagoitia, Ste Fishell, Nikkie Arias, Nicole Julien, Anastasia Bonaccorso, and CC Sheldon). $25-$35. Wed-Sat 8pm. Also Sat 5pm. Thru Jan 26. 505 Natoma St. 967-2227. www.boxcartheatre.org

Henry Gunderson @ Ever Gold Gallery

Opening reception for Apocalypse Shelter, the artist's exhibit of works depicting glass skulls and other pop culture end days imagery. 6pm-10pm. Wed-Sat 1pm-6pm. Thru Jan 5. 441 O'Farrell St. 796-3676. www.evergoldgallery.com

Holiday Concerts @ Davies Symphony Hall

Festive, non-traditional, and participatory concerts include: Dec 21, Mariachi Sol de Mexico, 7:30pm ($15-$70). Dec 22, 11am, The Snowman, and animated film about a boy's freindship with a snowman ($27-$57). Dec 22, 7:30, Dec 23, 4pm and Dec 24, 2pm, 'Twas the Night, a special Christmas carol-filled sing-along night ($15-$70). 201 Van Ness Ave. 864-6000. www.sfsymphony.org

Holiday Sale @ Creativity Explored

Exhibit and sale of new beautifully charming artwork made by local developmentally challenged adults. Extended hours thru Dec 23: Mon/Tue 10am-3pm. Wed-Fri til 7pm. Sat & Sun 12pm-5pm. 3245 16th St. 863-2108. www.creativityexplored.org

Mittens and Misteltoe @ Dance Mission Theatre

A Winter Circus Cabaret, Sweet Can Productions' light-hearted kid-friendly holiday romp, with jugglers, clowns, trapeze artists and more. $15-$20. 8pm. Also Dec 22, 4pm. Dec 23 & 24 at 2pm & 4pm. 3316 24th St. 225-7281. www.sweetcanproductions.com

Out of Character @ Asian Art Museum

Decoding Chinese Calligraphy, an exhibit of modern and ancient scripted art, with numerous special events, workshops and discussions. Free-$12. Tue-Sun 10am-5pm. Thru Jan 13. 200 Larkin St. 581-3500. www.asianart.org

Queer Open Mic @ Modern Times Bookstore

Baruch Porras-Hernandez and Blythe Baldwin host the LGBT open mic night, with special guest comic Nick Leonard. Sign-ups 7pm. Show 7:30pm. 2919 24th St. www.queeropenmic.com

The Rainmaker @ Shelton Theater

N. Richard Nash's drama about a traveling con man who romances a small town woman, gets a local production. $38. Fri & Sat 8pm. Thru Dec 22. 533 Sutter St. at Powell. (800) 838-3006. www.sheltontheater.org

Rust and Bone @ Embaracadero, Sundance Kabuki Cinemas

Marion Cotillard and Matthias Schoenaerts star in the acclaimed French film about a whale-trainer and a street fighter's unlikely romance. www.sonyclassics.com

San Francisco Ballet @ War Memorial Opera House

The acclaimed dance company performs Tchaikovsky's holiday ballet, The Nutcracker. $20-$165. 7pm. Tue-Sun 2pm & 7pm. Additional times. Thru Dec 28. 301 Van Ness Ave. 865-2000. www.sfballet.org

The Santaland Diaries @ Eureka Theatre

David Dinaiko performs Joe Mantello's stage adaptation of the popular David Sedaris short story. $20-$50. 8pm. Thru Dec 29 (no show Dec 25). 215 Jackson St. (800) 838-3006. www.combinedartform.com www.theeruekatheatre.org

Smuin Ballet @ YBCA

The Christmas Ballet, the late Michael Smuin's holiday work, with updates by Amy Seiwart and other choreographers. LGBT Night Out Dec 20; $10 of tickets benefit the Trevor Project. $25-$65. Thu-Sat 8pm. Sat & Sun 2pm. Thru Dec 23. Novellus Theatre, 701 Mission St. 912-1899. www.smuinballet.org www.ybca.org

Strange Christmas @ Oddball Films

Enjoy a screening of odd unusual and vintage Christmas-themed short films featuring Laurel & Hardy, Frank sinatra and Bing Crosby, battling toys, and cartoons galore. $10. 8pm. 275 Capp St. 558-8117. www.oddballfilms.blogspot.com

Tony! Toni! Toné! @ Yoshi's Oakland

The dapper R&B trio returns to their home town. $30. Dec 21 & 22, 8pm 7 & 10pm. Dec 23, 7pm & 9pm. 510 Embarcadero West, Jack London Square. (510) 238-9200. www.yoshis.com

Various Films @ Castro Theatre

They Live (7:30) and Miracle Mile (9:20). Dec 22, Sketchfest presents holiday-themed flicks: Bad Santa, Scrooged, Emmet Otter's Jug Band Christmas and The Bells of Fraggle Rock, and Elf (all-day pass $40). Dec 26, Singin' in the Rain (4 screenings). Dec 27, Gentlemen Prefer Blondes (3pm, 7pm) and King Kong (original; 4:50, 8:50). $8-$12. 429 Castro St. www.castrotheatre.com

The White Snake @ Berkeley Rep

Tony Award-winning director Mary Zimmerman's (Argonautika, Arabian Nights) visually stunning mystical drama based on a Chinese legend of romance and magical powers. $22-$99. Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat 8pm. Wed 7pm. Sun 7pm. Sat & Sun 2pm. Extended thru Dec 30. Special events thru run. Roda Theatre, 2025 Addison St., Berkeley. (510) 647-2949. www.berkeleyrep.org

Woyzeck @ Ashby Stage, Berkeley

Shotgun Players' production of Robert Wilson's re-conceived musical revision of Georg Buchner's stage play, with music and lyrcis by Tom Waits and Kathleen Brennan; a tragic tale about a soldier who returns home to find his girl is having an affair. $25-$35. Wed & Thu 7pm. Fri & Sat 8pm. Sun 5pm. Thru Jan 27. 1901 Ashby Ave., Berkeley. (510) 841-6500. www.shotgunplayers.org

Sat 22

100 Years of Rural California @ California Historical Society

Exhibit of 150 large-scale color prints by writer-photographer Lisa Hamilton, and archival selections dating back to the 1880s. Thru Mar. 24. 2013. 678 Mission St. 357-1848. www.californiahistoricalsociety.org

(Affordable) Art From the Heart @ NIAD Art Center, Richmond

Exhibit and holiday sale of art made by adults with developmental disabilities; all priced from $15-$150. Thru Dec. 25. 551 23rd St., Richmond. (510) 620-0326. www.niadart.org

Beach Blanket Babylon @ Club Fugazi

Musical comedy revue, now in its 35th year, with an ever-changing lineup of political and pop culture icons, all in gigantic wigs. Reg: $25-$130. Wed, Thu, Fri at 8pm. Sat 6:30, 9:30pm. Sun 2pm, 5pm. (Beer/wine served; cash only). 678 Beach Blanket Babylon Blvd (Green St.). 421-4222. www.beachblanketbabylon.com

Bell, Book and Candle @ SF Playhouse

Romantic comedy about a mortal man and a witch (the play and film inspired Bewitched). $25-$30. Tue-Thu 7pm. Fri & Sat 8pm. Sun 3pm. Thru Jan 19. 450 Post St. above Farallon Restaurant. www.sfplayhouse.org

The Book of Mormon @ Curran Theatre

South Park duo's beyond-sold-out hit musical parody of a certain flyover state's religion. $29 (lottery tix) -$200. Thru Dec. 30. 445 Geary St. (888) 746-1799. www.bookofmormonthemusical.com www.shnsf.com

Crones for the Holidays @ Stage Werx

Terry Baum and Carolyn Myers' sketch comedy and improv show with lesbian wit, that pokes fun of holiday silliness. $15-$20. Sat 3pm & 8pm. Sun 3pm. Thru Dec 30. 446 Valencia St at 16th. (800) 838-3006. www.crackpotcrones.com

Dancing in the Dragon's Jaws: Gay San Francisco, 1985-1988 @ SF Public Library

Thomas Alleman's exhibit of fascinating new large-print photos from San Francisco's mid-1980s gay community, from the onslaught of AIDS to nightlife and arts celebrations. Exhibit thru Feb 10, 2013. Jewitt Gallery, lower level, 100 Larkin St. at Grove. www.allemanphoto.com www.sfpl.org

Earthquake @ California Academy of Sciences

New exhibit and planetarium show with various live, interactive and installed exhibits about our ever-shifting earth. $20-$30. Mon-Sat 9:30am-5pm. Sun 11am-5pm. 55 Music Concourse Drive, Golden Gate Park. 379-8000. www.calacademy.org

Eric Fischl @ San Jose Museum of Art

Exhibit of a dozen-plus large paintings, and other works by the prominent post-modern neo-realist. Thru May 12, 2013. 110 South Market St. www.SanJoseMuseumofArt.org

Great Dickens Christmas Fair @ Cow Palce

Large-scale showcase of booths, sales, displays, food and entertainment, all with a Dicekensian vintage holiday theme. $12-$80. ($10 parking). Sat & Sun 10am-7pm. Thru Dec 23. 2600 Geneva Ave. (800) 510-1558. www.dickensfair.com

Honey Mahogany @ Martuni's

The local drag singer and new RuPaul's Drag Race contestant performs a bawdy holiday-themed song show, with Erika Von Volkyrie and accompanist Trauma Flinstone. 7pm. 4 Valencia St. at Market. http://martunis.ypguides.net/

Jasper Johns, Jay DeFeo @ SF MOMA

Two exhibits of the American artists' works. Thru Feb 3. Also, Paul Klee's Circus, Alessandro Pessoli, the photo exhibit South Africa in Apartheid and After (Thru Mar 3), and other works and ongoing Modern art exhibits. Free-$18. 151 3rd St. at Mission. Thu-Tue 11am-5:45pm (8:45 Thursdays). 357-4000. www.sfmoma.org

The Kinsey Sicks @ Herbst Theatre

The comic dragapella quartet returns with Oy Vey in a Manger, their holiday music laughfest. $28-$39. 8pm. 401 Van Ness Ave. www.kinseysicks.com

Kung Pao Kosher Comedy @ New Asia Restaurant

20th anniversary of the hilarious, delicious night of Jewish (and other) comedy and Chinese food! Performers include Judy Gold, Scott Blakeman, Mike Capozzola and hostess Lisa Geduldig. $44-$64. Dinner shows 6pm; cocktail shows 9:30 and 8:30pm. Thru Dec 25. Yes, shows on Christmas Day. 772 Pacific Ave., Chinatown. (925) 855-1986. www.koshercomedy.com

Leilani Bustamante @ Modern Eden Gallery

Solo exhibition of the artist's evocative paintings. Wed-Sun 11am-7pm. Thru Jan 6. 403 Francisco St. 956-3303. www.moderneden.com

The Marvelous Wonderettes @ New Conservatory Theatre Center

NCTC's production of the upbeat hit Off-Broadway musical about three women in the late 1950s who reminisce while singing '50s and early '60s pop tunes. $22-$50 (fun-pack). Wed-Sat 8pm, Sun 2pm. Thru Jan 13. 25 Van Ness Ave., lower level. 861-8972. www.nctcsf.org

Mascara @ Castro Country Club

Monthly drag show at the sober space; this month, including live and acoustic act. U-Phoria hosts. $3-$6. 10:30pm. 4058 18th St. www.castrocountryclub.org

Nick Weber: Broadband @ Resipsa Gallery, Oakland

Intriguing exhibit of paintings based on imagery from online porn. Saturdays, 1pm-4pm. Thru Jan. 11. 455 17th st. #301. Oakland. www.resipsagallery.com

Nutcracker Sweets @ Southside Theater

Mark Foehringer's fourth annual production of his mirthful contemporary ballet take on the Tchaikovsky ballet, with a live abbreviated score (50 minutes). $25. Also Dec. 23. Sun 11am & 2pm; Sat also 4pm. Fort Mason Center, Landmark Bldg. D, 3rd floor. Marina Blvd at Buchanan. www.mfdpsf.org www.fortmason.org

Phantoms of Asia @ Asian Art Museum

Exhibit of bold contemporary art with perspectives on life, death, nature and other themes. $12-$15. 200 Larkin St. 581-3500. www.asianart.org

Really Rosie @ New Conservatory Theatre Center

Carole King's musical adaptation of the popular Maurice Sendak children's book series Nutshell Kids, about some imaginative Brooklyn children; performed by NCTC's Youth Conservatory Program. Sat 2pm & 4pm. Sun 2pm. Thru Jan 13. 25 Van Ness Ave., lower level. 861-8972. www.nctcsf.org

Royal Treasures from the Louvre @ Legion of Honor

Exhibit of decorative arts, most never seen in the U.S., from the reigns of Louis XIV to Marie-Antoinette, from the Musee du Louvre, Paris. Free-$20. Tue-Sun 9:30am-5:15pm. Thru March 17. Lincoln Park, 34th Ave and Clement St. www.legionofhonor.org

Rudolf Nureyev: A Life in Dance @ de Young Museum

Direct from the Centre National du Costume de Scene in Moulins, France, this exhibit displays costumes, photos, videos and ephemera documenting the amazing dancing and choreography of the world-famous gay dancer. Thru Feb 17. Also, Chuck Close and Crown Point Press , an exhibit of the painter's printmaking works; also, permanent exhibits of Modern art. $6-$20. Tue-Sun 9:30am-5:15pm. 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive, Golden Gate Park. 750-3600. www.famsf.org

Swing Jam @ Magnet

Monthly dance night, with lessons and same-sex dancing. $5-$10. 7pm-9:30pm. 4122 18th St. at Castro. www.QueerJitterbugs.com www.magnetsf.org

The William S. Paley Collection: A Taste for Modernism @ de Young Museum

New exhibit of varied and little-seen Modern Art works collected by the New York art patron with a diverse taste, including paintings by Cezanne, Picasso, Matisse Degas, Toulouse-Lautrec and others. Also, This World Is Not My Home: Photographs by Danny Lyon, thru Jan. 27. $10-$20. Tue-Sun 9:30am-5:15pm. (til 8:45pm Fridays) Thru Dec. 30. Golden Gate Park, 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive. 750-3600. www.famsf.org

Where We're Going, We Don't Need Roads @ Gauntlet Gallery

Witty group exhibit of pop art in various media, all dealing with imagery from 1980s movies, at the new gallery. 11am-6pm Tue-Sat. Thru Jan 17. 1040 Larkin St. (650) 209-0278. www.gauntletgallery.com

Xavier MTW @ Glamarama

Foucault at the Food Co., a whimsical visual story exhibit by a new local gay artist, at the fab hair salon. Thru Jan. 5, 2013. 304 Valencia St. www.glamarama.com

Sun 23

Christmas With the Crawfords @ Martuni's

Katya Smirnoff-Skyy, Mark Sargent, Connie Champagne, Trauma Flintstone and tohers perform a cabaret version of the hilarious drag parody of Joan crawford's holiday TV show. 7pm. 4 Valencia St. at Market. http://martunis.ypguides.net/

David Barnett @ Castro Country Club

Exhibit of landscape and pet paintings by the local gay artist. Sales benefit the artist and the CCC; pet portrait commissions also available. Exhibit through Jan 18. 4058 18th St. www.DavidBarnettArt.com www.CastroCountryClub.org

SF Hiking Club @ Muir Beach

Join GLBT hikers for a 9-mile hike in the Marin Headlands. Climb the steep and long Fox Trail out of Tennessee Valley to the Coyote Ridge trail and down the Green Gulch trail to the farm and Zen Buddhist retreat center; then hike through the farm to Muir Beach for lunch and beautiful ocean views. Bring lunch, water, hat, layers, sturdy boots. Carpool meets 9:00 at Safeway sign, Market & Dolores. 378-5612. www.sfhiking.com

Sundance Saloon @ Space 550

Popular country western LGBT dance night $5-$8. 6:30pm-10:30pm with lessons from 7:00 - 8:00 pm. Also Sundays 5pm-10:30pm with lessons from 5:30-7:15 pm. 550 Barneveld Ave. www.sundancesaloon.org

Sunday's a Drag @ Starlight Room

Donna Sachet and Harry Denton host the weekly fabulous brunch and drag show. $45. 11am, show at noon; 1:30pm, show at 2:30pm. 450 Powell St. in Union Square. 395-8595. www.harrydenton.com

Mon 24

Christmas Eve

Adrianna Bozzi @ Magnet

Exhibit of bold male nudes by the Argentinian painter. Thru Dec. 4122 18th St. www.adrianabozzi.com www.magnetsf.org

Animation Exhibits @ Walt Disney Museum

See biographical exhibits about Walt Disney, early sketches and ephemera from historic Disney movies. Frequent lectures and film screenings. $5-$20. 104 Montgomery St., The Presidio. www.waltdisney.org

Anything Anonymous @ Castro Country Club

Holiday marathon of hourly meetings at the LGBT sober space; 10pm, 11pm, 12am, 1am, 2am. Also New Year's Eve. 4058 18th St. www.castrocountryclub.org

Piano Bar 101 @ Martuni's

Sing-along night with talented locals, and charming accompanist Joe Wicht (aka Trauma Flintstone). 9pm. 4 Valencia St. at Market. www.dragatmartunis.com

San Francisco Gay Men's Chorus @ Castro Theatre

SantaConcert, the hip holiday choral concert, with a formal first half, then Santa hilarity, where the 250+ members croon holiday tunes. $25-$27. 5pm, 7pm, 9pm. 429 Castro St. www.sfgmc.org

Ten Percent @ Comcast 104

David Perry's talk show about LGBT people and issues. Mon-Fri 11:30am & 10:30pm. Sat & Sun 10:30pm. www.comcasthometown.com

Tue 25

Christmas Day

Bud E. Luv @ The Rrazz Room

Vegas-style fun band performs a special holiday show. $35. 8pm. 2-drink min. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. (800) 380-3095. www.TheRrazzRoom.com

The Drag Show @ Various Channels

Stu Smith's weekly LGBT variety show features local talents, and not just drag artistes. Channels 29 & 76 on Comcast; 99 on AT&T and 30 on Astound. www.thedragshow.org

Funny Tuesdays @ Harvey's

Ronn Vigh hosts the weekly LGBT and gay-friendly comedy night. One drink or menu item minimum. 9pm. 500 Castro St. at 18th. 431-HARV. www.harveyssf.com

Holiday Brunch & Dinner @ Top of the Mark

Brunch/dinner buffet at the elegant hotel, with pianist Michael Athens and Ricardo Scales. $105 adults, $59 kids 4-12. 10am-7pm. 1 Nob Hill. Reservations only: 616-6941. www.topofthemark.com

Potluck Party @ Castro Country Club

Annual open dinner party at the LGBT sober space. Bring a covered dish. 2pm-5pm. 4058 18th St. www.castrocountryclub.org

Safeway Holiday Ice Rink @ Union Square

The popular downtown ice skating rink is open. $5-$10. Open daily 10am-11:30pm thru Jan 21 (except New Year's Eve; closed at 9:30pm). Powell St. at www.unionsquareicerink.com

Wed 26

The Art of Dr. Seuss @ Dennis Rae Fine Art

Fascinating exhibit of rarely seen prints, paintings, sculptures and a few of the more known drawings by Theodor Geisel, the author/illustrator of the immensely popular children's books. Ongoing, with updates and new items. 351A Geary St. 391-1948. www.dennisraefineart.com

Art With Elders @ City Hall

Large group exhibit of works by 90 artists in 30+ local arts programs, all seniors with a lengthy life perspective. Thru Jan. 4. Reg hours Mon-Fri 8am-8pm. Ground floor, 1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Place. www.sfgov.org

Candlelight Flow Yoga @ LGBT Center

David Clark leads various yoga poses and practices, plus meditation and breathing exercises. Bring your own mat and water bottle, etc. $10. 7pm-8:30pm. 1800 Market St. www.4dbliss.com

Fernando Reyes @ Nieto Fine Art

Exhibit of the artist's colorful figure studies and drawings. Thru Jan 7. 565 Sutter St. 393-4511. www.nietofineart.com

John Waguespack @ 111 Minna Gallery

Large-scale pop culture icon portraits and paintings by the local artist. Thru Jan. 26. Wed-Fri 12pm-5pm. 111 Minna St. 974-1719. www.111minnagallery.com/2012/new-works-by-john-waguespack/

Play Fair @ GLBT History Museum

Play Fair! The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence Make Sex Safer, an exhibit of safe sex promotional efforts. Also, For Love and Community: Queer Asian Pacific Islanders Take Action 1960-1990s, an exhibit organized by queer and transgender Asian Pacific Islanders. Mon-Sat 11am-7pm. Sun 12pm-5pm. 4127 18th St. 621-1107. www.glbthistorymuseum.org

Thu 27

Comedy Bodega @ Esta Nocha

The weekly LGBT and indie comic stand-up night. This week, a benefit for Muttville Senior Dog Rescue, featuring Priya Prasad, Kevin Munroe, Gabe Morales and Dave Tomason. 8pm-9:30pm. 3079 16th St. at Mission. www.comedybodega.com

Ezra Jack Keats @ Contemporary Jewish Museum

The Snowy Day and the Art of Exra Jack Keats, an exhibit of original artwork from the popular children's book author/illustrator. Thru Feb 24. Also, The Radical Camera: New York's Photo League, a group exhibition of fascinating photos from 1936-1951 taken by members of the progressive collective that documented the eras of postwar struggles, McCarthy blacklists, and urban life. Other exhibits (California Dreaming and Black Sabbath) ongoing. Free (members)-$12. Thu-Tue 11am-5pm (Thu 1pm-8pm) 736 Mission St. 655-7800. www.thecjm.org

San Francisco Magic Parlor @ Chancellor Hotel

Whimsical Belle Epoque-style sketch and magic show that also includes historical San Francisco stories; hosted by Walt Anthony. with optional pre-show light dinner and desserts. $40. Thu-Sat 8pm. 433 Powell St. www.SFMagicParlor.com

Steven J. Levin, Jacob A. Pfeiffer @ John Pence Gallery

Dual exhibit of the two painters who explore realism, portraits and still lives with vibrant colors and imagery. Mon-Fri 10am-6pm. Sat til 5pm. 750 Post St. 441-1138. www.johnpence.com

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To submit event listings, email jim@ebar.com.

Deadline is each Thursday, a week before publication.

For more bar and nightlife events, go to www.bartabsf.com