The Annual Holiday Show You Don’t Want To Miss
What did you do differently this holiday season? We tried a new show.
As a family mentally preparing for our first holiday break from school (OMG, what do you do with your kid(s) for two weeks straight, right?), we were invited to attend the closing show of Reindeer Games, created by the incredible People’s Circus Theater.
You are not alone if you’ve never heard of this performance company. It was our first time seeing them, too, so we were in for a treat. They delivered an exceptional show, as they know what you want, even if you think the circus is only for kids…
This Show Is For Everyone: Kids of All Ages
YES! That includes adults, too 🙂
The People’s Circus Theater is dedicated to creating high-quality performances, employing local artists, developing the next generation of performers, and producing shows that are highly accessible to diverse audiences.
Reindeer Games was hosted by the newly renovated Children’s Creativity Museum and ran several weekends in December 2024. This highly interactive show allows the audience to participate, and you can even get to be on stage if you want.
My kid was all for getting out of her seat. As were many adults.
No judgment ever!
Only FUN and permission to enjoy yourself in the moment!
The Heart of Our Human Experience
The show is built on the idea that the Reindeer struggle to contain their anticipation as they wait to fly Santa’s sleigh. As the show progresses, you cannot take your eyes off the Reindeer, who are working through their complicated feelings that bubble up along with the excitement of the magic of the flight. They look for and find ways to regulate their emotions with physical activity, mindfulness, and play. They learn that conflicting feelings can coexist: fear and fun, worry and wonder, competition and cooperation, darkness and light. These feelings are at the heart of our human experience.
It’s Not Just A Show. It’s A Date For The Whole Family!
Reindeer Games is a performance by young and seasoned circus artists set in the heart of San Francisco’s downtown and is well-loved in the Bay Area. When planning a visit, know that you will get much more than a show in a theater.
The location: Yerba Buena Gardens
Buying tickets lets you plan a full day of activities in and around the fantastic Yerba Buena Gardens. You can add on a visit to SF MOMA or some fun family time at the nearby Ice Skating and Bowling Center. Or stroll to the playground, where you sit and relax while your kids run silly in preparation for the 70-minute show.
Right before the show: Eat and be merry
We were treated to pre-games entertainment outside the Children’s Creativity Museum, with very budding performers showing their skills to the public. Bring some food for a picnic outside and refuel your party right before it’s time to find your seats.
During the show: Turn off the phone and get ready for wonder
Reindeer Games uniquely blends world-class circus, live music, and delightful storytelling.
Their Elf Band is epic! They can make you move in your seats and get on the stage to dance with the crowd. So be ready for magic, fun, and so much more…
Candy Mediation: Wait… WHAT?
Have you ever heard of Candy Meditation?
There is a reason why you haven’t!
It’s a HUGE secret!
It is only known to those who have attended the show. It involves actual CANDY that you get to…wait for it… SAVOR as you SLOW down to enjoy the moment and the company of your loved ones.
If that’s not enough, I rest my case.
Just put it on your calendar to look for tickets in 2025, as they are creating even more magic this year.
You Deserve To See This: 2025 Schedule of People’s Circus Theater
The Nightingale will make its world premiere in June 2025 at the Children’s Creativity Museum.
Start planning now.
Hopefully, The Reindeer Games will return in December to bring the wonderful holiday tradition back.
These are the shows you will not want to miss!
We should see each other there. Say hi!
Disclaimer: The author has been gifted tickets to the Reindeer Games performance by the People’s Circus Theater. All of the opinions expressed are of the author and have not been influenced by the company or any of the mentioned establishments.
