Getting ready for the New Year's Eve parties is as easy as enrolling in the Holiday Boot Camp at Golden Gate Park, taking place on Sunday, December 21st and Monday, December 22nd, 2008. Interested parties should plan on rising and shining early in the morning for a session in fitness from 7am to 8am that meets at Kezar Drive at Stanyan Street. Usually, people who experience a brief taste of AlaVie Fitness or PowerVie Boot Camp decide to enroll in more intense, longer programs throughout the year.

As for this 2-day romp, this is the perfect chance to get acquainted with the coaches and test out the workouts you may want to make part of your routine schedule. Did you know that this workout ranked high amongst the readers of San Jose and San Francisco Magazines? Come see what all the buzz is about when you tap into a newfound energy right in the middle of beautiful Golden Gate Park.

The Holiday Boot Camp costs $20 to $35 to enjoy. For more details, check out http://www.alaviefitness.com, email info [at] alaviefitness.com, or call 415-567-7411.

Whether you tinker with a model train set at home or have children fascinated with magical locomotives, Golden Gate Park is currently home to the Golden Gate Express – the first ever garden railway exhibition for the Conservatory of Flowers (John F. Kennedy Drive).

Surrounded by replicas of famous San Francisco landmarks, a miniature G-gauge train zips by local attractions, such as the Transamerica Pyramid, Golden Gate Bridge, and Ghirardelli Square. Living plants create endless green spaces that depict parks and gardens. Reusable materials (like old computer keys and plumbing supplies) are used to build some of the significant structures.

The Golden Gate Express also offers:

• Access to a vintage train station seating area
• Guest appearances by costumed conductors
• Information regarding the development of San Francisco and its railways

So, the next time you're wondering what to do this weekend or any weekend until April, come browse the Golden Gate Express – an entertaining holiday experience. This Conservatory of Flowers event will continue on every day (with the exception of Monday) until April 19th, 2009 – from 9am to 4:30pm. Without a paid admission to the Conservatory, expect a fee between $3 and $5. For more details on this event, call 415-831-2090 or 415-666-7001.

After the smoked turkey, apple pie, and candied yams have settled in your stomach – it’s time to step out of the comforts of your home and enjoy the Golden Gate Park events scheduled for Sunday, November 30th, 2008: Run Wild and the Bazaar Bizarre San Francisco Holiday Show.

Run Wild

Mark your calendars! Two fun courses will be offered at the 24th annual Run Wild event, which both start together on John F. Kennedy Drive & 8th Ave. The 5K & 10K USAT&F certified courses weave throughout Golden Gate Park, alongside the Panhandle and end at the Music Concourse. Prizes are given to the top three finishers in each race. Rain or shine – the race is on!

Bazaar Bizarre San Francisco Holiday Show

Get a jumpstart on the holiday season when you check out the Bazaar Bizarre San Francisco Holiday Show between 10am and 5pm. An explosion of do-it-yourself and handmade ideas and materials will surround live entertainment, craft workshops, and food at this event. Whether it’s a leather-bound book, knitting must-haves, or baby clothing, don’t miss out on endless custom-made specialties. Tickets for this San Francisco County Fair Building event are a mere $1. For more information, check out http://www.bazaarbizarre.org/sanfrancisco.html.

If you're looking for inspiration to get started on the right path towards holiday cheer and making a joyful noise, consider the second annual Holiday Artisan Fair at the De Young Museum, taking place on November 21st and 22nd, 2008. From decorative textiles to jubilant tabletop pieces, the work of 17 Bay Area artisans will brighten up your day, as well as your festive spirit.

At the Holiday Artisan Fair, this is your chance to browse and purchase distinct books, jewelry, and other gifts for the holiday season. If you're a FAMSF member, you can take advantage of a 10% discount on all purchases. Just some of the work to look forward to includes jewelry by Denise Peacock and Christine Aiko Beck; and decorative arts by Jane Woodside, Grant Irish, and Shuji Ikeda.

Don’t forget – this free event will take place at the Piazzoni Murals Room in De Young Museum, located in Golden Gate Park at 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive: Friday (12pm – 8:30pm) and Saturday (9:30am – 4:30pm).