Events Around the Bay
Día de los Muertos with the SF Symphony
This month, the San Francisco Symphony honors the Day of the Dead with a festive annual event that’s fun for all ages.
November 7, 2026 at 3pm
The event celebrates Latin American music and culture, and features large, colorful art installations crafted by local artists, arts and craft stations, costumed performers from Casa Círculo Cultural, and a dynamic concert program featuring works by Carlos Chávez, Luis Farfán Carrillo, Arturo Márquez, and more. The event is curated by longtime collaborator Martha Rodríguez-Salazar, who plans a different theme for each year. This year’s event explores the traditions of Tlaxcala, Mexico and its famous firefly sanctuary. “The image of the firefly is at the heart of this year’s celebration,” Rodríguez-Salazar says. One of my favorite annual programs. Not to be missed!
Information
Davies Symphony Hall; 201 Van Ness Ave. in San Francisco
sfsymphony.org; 415-864-6000; Photo courtesy of SF Symphony
Opera San Jose Presents “Fiddler on the Roof”
November 15-29, 2026
Fiddler on the Roof – The musical which revolutionized American theater! The longest running Broadway musical and nine-time Tony Award winner is heading to the architecturally stunning California Theater in downtown San Jose. Set in a vibrant Jewish village in the early 20th-century you will be humming the unforgettable scores including “Traditions,” “If I Were a Rich Man” and “Sunrise, Sunset” for many weeks to come…guaranteed. “Fiddler on the Roof” explores love, faith, family, resilience, and the heartbreaking realities of diaspora. It takes a partnership of Opera San Jose with Music Theater International, the Cincinnati Opera and Austin Opera to stage this phenomenal production for the opera lovers in Silicon Valley. Soloists Eugene Brancoveanu, Nicole Koh, Melissa Sondhi, Emmy Award-nominated international director Crystal Manich, alongside conductor George Manahan bring a fresh and vibrant vision to this timeless classic musical.
Information
For tickets visit operasj.org or call 408-437-4450.
California Theater at 345 South 1st street in San Jose
Photos courtesy of Opera SJ
Barcelona Guitar Trio and Dance
Barcelona Guitar Trio & Dance is an internationally acclaimed ensemble which delivers a captivating tribute to legendary guitarist Paco de Lucia. The group’s three renowned guitarists Ali Arango, Xavier Coll and Luis Robisco – are joined by flamenco dancers Carolina Morgado and Jose Manuel Alvarez and percussionist Lucas Balbo. Their performances blend flamenco and Spanish-guitar traditions, showcasing compositions by Paco de Lucia, Chick Corea, Manuel de Falla and Federico Garcia Lorca.
November 18 at 7:30pm
The ensemble has graced prestigious venues worldwide, including the Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi, the Seoul Arts Theater, the Tel Aviv Opera House and the Town Hall New York. In Barcelona they frequently perform at the Palau de la Musica Catalina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its stunning modernist architecture and exceptional acoustics. Experience the passion, rhythm and artistry of Spain as Barcelona Guitar Trio & Dance return to San Francisco with their electrifying and triumphant performance at Herbst Theater.
Information
Herbst Theater at 401 Van Ness Ave in San Francisco
Advance Purchase of tickets at City Box Office: city_box_office@mail.vresp.com
Photos courtesy of Barcelona Guitar Trio and Dance
Merry & Bright Preview Night
Holidays at Filoli is a Magical Experience
Fun, Fantasy, Filoli – a winning combination! Be among the first to experience the wonder of the season before Holidays at Filoli opens to the public. “Merry and Bright” is one night only.
November 13th, 2026; 6pm – 10pm
Step into a world of holiday magic as the magnificent estate sparkles to life with twinkling lights, joyful sounds of live carolers, complimentary hot drinks served in a keepsake mug, and so much more! Optional VIP ticket available with Champagne lounge access. Start your holiday season with this exclusive experience where traditions are made. Don’t forget to visit the lavishly decorated gifts boutique – just in time for your Christmas and Hanukkah shopping. Food trucks, Quail Cafe, and bars will be open until 9:30pm. 86
Information: filoli.org; 86 Canada Rd in Woodside; 650-399-0784
Tickets: General Admission $125, VIP $195; Enjoy live music in the Ballroom and Woodland Court, with roaming carolers adding to the festive atmosphere. Optional VIP ticket available with Champagne lounge access. Be among the first to experience the wonder of the season before Holidays at Filoli opens to the public.
by Lina Broydo
