East Bay in Bloom: Honoring Heroes & Welcoming Winter

The East Bay is glowing with early winter excitement—from ice skating and concerts to Veterans Day tributes and community events. It’s a week that celebrates togetherness, gratitude, and the start of the holiday season. Whether you’re planning a family outing or a night out with friends, this lineup captures the warmth and spirit of November.

This Veterans Day, we honor the profound military history held right here in the East Bay.

The USS Hornet Sea, Air & Space Museum (CV-12) in Alameda stands as a powerful, living monument to American service. This historic aircraft carrier played critical roles in World War II and the Vietnam War, but is perhaps best known for its part in the space race—it served as the recovery ship for the Apollo 11 and Apollo 12 astronauts returning from the Moon in 1969.

Visiting the Hornet allows families to walk through the decks, view restored aircraft, and understand the tremendous sacrifices made by the men and women who served aboard her and throughout the fleet. It is a vital institution dedicated to preserving the history of American courage and is an essential place to pay respects this holiday.

"The greatest honor is to walk the decks where history was made."

Get ready to lace up! The most festive winter tradition in Contra Costa County returns as the ice rink at The Veranda opens for its new season on Friday, November 7th . This isn't just skating; it’s a full winter immersion, complete with "laughter, music, and holiday cheer," designed to transform your routine shopping trip into a joyous seasonal outing.

Insider Tip: Skip the lines and guarantee your session during peak holiday times by purchasing your tickets online in advance. Walk-up tickets are accommodated strictly "based on availability" .

Catch the Benicia Theatre Group’s production of the long-running classic musical, The Fantasticks, during its final weekend. This performance provides an intimate, high-quality local arts experience in the Benicia community, concluding its theatrical run on Sunday.  

Come enjoy a rockin’ weekend of affordable family fun at the Contra Costa Mineral & Gem Society’s 75th anniversary show. Explore fascinating mineral, crystal, and fossil exhibits, shop for gems and jewelry, and participate in educational activities for all ages. Paid admission on Saturday even grants free return admission on Sunday, and parking is free – making this a sparkling outing for kids and hobbyists alike.

The Alameda County Fairgrounds roars to life with the first of a two-day celebration of classic American car culture. This massive festival draws thousands of enthusiasts, featuring hot rods, vintage cars, specialty vendors, and a sprawling swap meet. It's one of the final large-scale outdoor festivals of the season, so plan for significant traffic congestion on the I-680 corridor.  

Take a self-guided art adventure through Vallejo’s vibrant arts scene during the annual Open Studios weekend. Dozens of local artists open their studios and gallery spaces to the public, showcasing painting, sculpture, jewelry, ceramics and more. Start at the Vallejo Naval & Historical Museum for maps and an opening exhibit, then explore at your own pace. It’s a family-friendly opportunity to meet artists, see demonstrations, and perhaps take home a one-of-a-kind piece of art.

A reliable Contra Costa weekly fixture, this family-friendly community event continues its run through early December. Enjoy live music and a rotating lineup of seven or more food and dessert trucks for a perfect mid-week dining alternative.  

An engaging community program that combines early literacy promotion by a local librarian with live musical performance by the Oaktown Jazz Performance Ensemble. This event is a great way to introduce young families to both reading and the arts.  

Celebrate the season with joyful voices of Oakland’s youth! The Oakland Youth Chorus presents its annual Harvest concert featuring OYC’s Chamber Singers and ensembles (“Miracles” and “Songbirds”), joined by choirs from local middle school. Expect an uplifting evening of multicultural songs and holiday favorites performed by talented young singers from across the city. This family-friendly concert supports youth arts and will leave you full of community spirit.

Experience Vallejo’s arts and culture scene at this lively monthly Art Walk in the heart of downtown. Dozens of venues — galleries, boutiques, cafés — showcase local artists, live music, and crafts late into the evening. Wander the streets to find paintings, jewelry, fashion, and more on display and for sale. Street performers and pop-up vendors add to the festival atmosphere. It’s an inclusive, family-friendly night out celebrating community creativity (and a great way to support local artists!).

Get in the spirit of the fall season at Arts Benicia’s annual celebration and fund. Enjoy an evening of tastings (local wine, craft spirits, and non-alcoholic elixirs), delicious appetizers from Benicia’s top eateries, live music by the Skillet Licorice trio, plus a photo booth and both live and silent auctions. This lively adults-oriented event supports arts education in the community – every ticket helps Arts Benicia continue its cultural programs. Dress up, bring your friends, and toast to creativity in Solano County!

📍 2263 South Shore Center, Alameda, CA 94501
Hours: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM

Applebee's proudly honors active-duty service members and veterans every year, and on Veterans Day, Tuesday, November 11th, the Alameda location will participate in the tradition of offering a complimentary full-size entrée as a heartfelt thank you for their service. This location, nestled in the South Shore Center, provides a casual and welcoming atmosphere—a place where the neighborhood comes together to celebrate our nation's heroes. This tradition, now in its 18th consecutive year, has served over 12 million free meals to America’s military community.

Veterans and active-duty military who dine in-restaurant on November 11, 2025, are eligible to choose a free meal from an exclusive Veterans Day menu. Choices traditionally include popular entrées like the 6 oz. Top Sirloin, the Classic Bacon Cheeseburger, Fiesta Lime Chicken®, and the Oriental Chicken Salad. As an added appreciation, guests receiving the free meal will also be honored with a $5 "Bounce Back Card" to use on a future visit. This is a reliable, celebratory option for a guaranteed complimentary meal on the holiday.

"There's no greater energy than at an Applebee's on Veterans Day. It's a day where you can not only see, but feel the neighborhood coming together."

As seasonal markets begin to close for the winter, these year-round and late-season markets remain open in the East Bay for fresh, local produce:

Looking to make a move? Whether you're buying or selling, we've got you covered:

Start your personalized home search with just one click.

Curious about your home’s value? Get a quick estimate right here.

From Veterans Day celebrations to cozy winter markets, the East Bay continues to shine with community pride and holiday spirit. Keep exploring, honor those who serve, and enjoy every bit of the season’s warmth—there’s always something inspiring happening close to home.

Stay local & stay inspired,

Ryan DeAmaral

Co-Writer, Twin Oaks Insider

[email protected]