1. The start of the holiday season. San Diego holiday shoppers and families are invited to get into the holiday spirit on November 17 with a full day of festivities at Fashion Valley, culminating with the 20-foot tree lighting by Santa Claus himself. Shoppers will enjoy performances by the Salvation Army Band, family-friendly activities and more. www.simon.com
2. Spending this Thanksgiving giving back to your community. Share the spirit of giving to those less fortunate and join the annual Father Joe’s Thanksgiving Day 5K Run/Walk to benefit St. Vincent de Paul Village, the largest homeless charity in San Diego on November 22 in Balboa Park. www.my.neighbor.org
3. Celebrating new traditions. Every Who down in Whoville liked Christmas a lot; but the Grinch who lived just north of Whoville did not. The Globe loves Christmas, the whole Christmas season; the tree lighting, the snow and the theatrical creation. The Grinch will be performed from November 17 through December 29, don’t miss it, no matter the reason. www.oldglobe.org
4. Voting. Election Day is on November 6 and your vote matters. As it has been said before, “If you don’t vote, you don’t count.” So make sure you vote and exercise your civic duty.
