Festivals, Feasts & Fairs

PALM DESERT--The Living Desert Wildlife and Botanical Park is aglow for the Wildlights celebration, 6-9 nightly through Jan. 1 (except Dec. 24-25). Lights cover trees, buildings and sculptures of animals and holiday characters. A variety of seasonal activities for families is offered. $4, general; $2.50, kids 12 and under. 47900 Portola Ave. (619) 346-5694.

ESCONDIDO--The San Diego Wild Animal Park is also twinkling for its annual Festival of Lights, 4-9 nightly through Dec. 30 (except Dec. 24-25). In addition to illuminated animal figures, there is storytelling, caroling, crafts, visits with Santa and more. $7.95, general; $3.95, kids 3-11. 15500 San Pasqual Valley Road. (619) 685-3295 or (619) 747-8702.

SANTA CRUZ--The Cocoanut Grove hosts its annual New Year’s Eve party, 8 p.m.-1:30 a.m. Dec. 31. Festivities include live music all night and a breakfast buffet after the countdown. $47.25 in advance; $58.80 at the door. If you can’t wait until the 31st to celebrate, a New Year’s Eve party is 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Dec. 30. $13 in advance: $15 at the door. Reservations recommended for both parties. 400 Beach St. (408) 423-2053.

SAN DIEGO--Ring in 1995 at the 10th annual Masked Ball, 8:30 p.m.-1:30 a.m. Dec. 31 at the San Diego Convention Center, 111 West Harbor Drive. Live music, fortunetellers, casino games and a dessert extravaganza are among the highlights at the black tie-optional event. $45 in advance; $55 at the door. A gourmet dinner is offered at 7:30 p.m. ($100 for dinner and ball.) (619) 437-8968.

HOLLISTER--A barbecue dinner, live country music and a continental breakfast are featured at Casa de Fruta’s New Year’s Eve Party, 7 p.m.-1 a.m. Dec. 31. $27.50. Reservations required. In the Casa de Fruta Music Hall. (800) 548-3813.