Calendar: events from December 2008 to January 2009

UNIVERSAL CITY

New Year’s Eve Bash

When, where: Dec. 31, Universal Studios CityWalk Hollywood.

Highlights: SoCal’s biggest free New Year’s celebration includes a fireworks show and live music.

Cost: Free

Info: (818) 622-1111, www.citywalkhollywood.com

BRECKENRIDGE, COLO.

Ullr Fest

When, where: Jan. 4-9, various locations.

Highlights: The annual celebration of Ullr (a mythical snow god) includes a parade, live entertainment, food, games and ice skating.

Cost: Most events are free.

Info: (800) 936-5573, www.gobreck.com

VISALIA, CALIF.

Sofa Art Show

When, where: Jan. 9, Arts Visalia.

Highlights: A quirky art event themed entirely around sofas, plus comedic art shows, a trolley tour and an “anti-snobby reception” with hors d’oeuvres of Oreos, Cheetos and Hawaiian Punch.

Cost: Free

Info: (559) 334-0141, www.visitvisalia.org

SCOTTSDALE, ARIZ.

Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction

When, where: Jan. 11-18, WestWorld Scottsdale.

Highlights: Parties, entertainment, more than 350 upscale car vendors and exhibitors displaying their wares and an auction of 1,000 rare vehicles.

Cost: $120 for an all-week pass, individual events start at $8.

Info: (480) 421-6694, www.barrett-jackson.com

SAN FRANCISCO

Dine About Town

When, where: Jan. 14-20, various San Francisco restaurants.

Highlights: More than 100 Bay-area eateries offer prix-fixe meals during the eighth annual event. New restaurants participating this time include Luce, Medjool and ThirstyBear. On Jan. 14, the launch party, in the Cellar at Macy’s Union Square, features local chefs and winemakers.

Cost: $22 for lunch, $35 for dinner. $20 donation to Meals on Wheels is required for admission to the launch party (price includes tastings and a keepsake glass). Restaurant reservations are encouraged, and reservations for the launch event are required by Jan. 11.

Info: (415) 391-2000, www.onlyinsanfrancisco.com/

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