Sophie Bearman

When my sister flew in to visit me in San Francisco from Brooklyn this Thanksgiving, she had something special in her carry-on: a dozen everything bagels sealed in heavy-duty Ziplocs. (For native New Yorkers, <a href="https://sf.eater.com/maps/best-bagels-san-francisco-bay-area">“New York-style bagels”</a> and New York bagels are not the same thing.) By the time she touched down in SF, her suitcase—and every item of clothing in it—reeked of onions and garlic. We did a full load of laundry and laughed it off as a small price to pay for an authentic bagel experience.&nbsp;

core/paragraph

<p>When my sister flew in to visit me in San Francisco from Brooklyn this Thanksgiving, she had something special in her carry-on: a dozen everything bagels sealed in heavy-duty Ziplocs. (For native New Yorkers, <a href="https://sf.eater.com/maps/best-bagels-san-francisco-bay-area">“New York-style bagels”</a> and New York bagels are not the same thing.) By the time she touched down in SF, her suitcase—and every item of clothing in it—reeked of onions and garlic. We did a full load of laundry and laughed it off as a small price to pay for an authentic bagel experience.&nbsp;</p>

Her thoughtful gesture sparked an idea. Why not curate a Bay Area-inspired gift basket for our family on the East Coast? The baskets would be filled with local delicacies my husband and I have come to adore and serve as a way to share a piece of our lives.

<p>Her thoughtful gesture sparked an idea. Why not curate a Bay Area-inspired gift basket for our family on the East Coast? The baskets would be filled with local delicacies my husband and I have come to adore and serve as a way to share a piece of our lives.</p>

Here's my take on a Bay Area foodie gift basket. Maybe it'll inspire you to think about the things you love most from your home.

<p>Here's my take on a Bay Area foodie gift basket. Maybe it'll inspire you to think about the things you love most from your home.</p>

<strong>READ MORE:</strong> <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/19/san-francisco-holiday-shopping-guide/">San Francisco Local Business Holiday Shopping Guide: 2023 Edition&nbsp;</a>

San Francisco local business holiday shopping guide: 2023 edition

<p><strong>READ MORE:</strong> <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/19/san-francisco-holiday-shopping-guide/">San Francisco Local Business Holiday Shopping Guide: 2023 Edition&nbsp;</a></p>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chili-crisp-to-die-for"><strong>Chili Crisp To Die For</strong></h2>


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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chili-crisp-to-die-for"><strong>Chili Crisp To Die For</strong></h2>

Chili crisp—the savory, spicy and crunchy condiment with Chinese roots—is <a href="https://www.delish.com/food-news/a40640038/how-chili-crisp-took-over/">having a moment</a>. It transforms a steaming bowl of ramen or a plate of scrambled eggs into a spicy-savory delight. It instantly elevates <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2020/06/30/dining/chili-crisp-ice-cream-sundae.html">scoops of plain vanilla ice cream</a>. I love chili crisp, and it was luck that led me to discover Occidental’s <a href="https://bigspoonsauceco.com/">Big Spoon Sauce Co.</a>, which makes four exquisite versions.

<p>Chili crisp—the savory, spicy and crunchy condiment with Chinese roots—is <a href="https://www.delish.com/food-news/a40640038/how-chili-crisp-took-over/">having a moment</a>. It transforms a steaming bowl of ramen or a plate of scrambled eggs into a spicy-savory delight. It instantly elevates <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2020/06/30/dining/chili-crisp-ice-cream-sundae.html">scoops of plain vanilla ice cream</a>. I love chili crisp, and it was luck that led me to discover Occidental’s <a href="https://bigspoonsauceco.com/">Big Spoon Sauce Co.</a>, which makes four exquisite versions.</p>


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/mg_5161.jpg?w=2500" alt="A jar of chili crisp sits on a table next to a bowl of salsa and chips. A hand dips a chip into the salsa." class="wp-image-227930"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Big Spoon Sauce Co.'s Dragon's Booty can only be consumed in small doses.</figcaption></figure>


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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/mg_5161.jpg?w=2500" alt="A jar of chili crisp sits on a table next to a bowl of salsa and chips. A hand dips a chip into the salsa." class="wp-image-227930"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Big Spoon Sauce Co.'s Dragon's Booty can only be consumed in small doses.</figcaption></figure>

I stumbled across Big Spoon Sauce Co. at Sebastopol’s weekend farmers' market and snagged a jar of its <a href="https://bigspoonsauceco.com/products/chili-crisp">flagship flavor</a> with plans to savor it all summer. Unfortunately, within days, the jar was empty—my husband had taken to eating it by the spoonful. Lately, I've been solving that problem by buying the company’s spicier adaptation, <a href="https://bigspoonsauceco.com/products/dragons-booty">Dragon’s Booty</a>. Made with habanero peppers, apples and orange zest, it possesses a spice level that demands it be enjoyed in small doses. A 6-ounce jar is $18.

<p>I stumbled across Big Spoon Sauce Co. at Sebastopol’s weekend farmers' market and snagged a jar of its <a href="https://bigspoonsauceco.com/products/chili-crisp">flagship flavor</a> with plans to savor it all summer. Unfortunately, within days, the jar was empty—my husband had taken to eating it by the spoonful. Lately, I've been solving that problem by buying the company’s spicier adaptation, <a href="https://bigspoonsauceco.com/products/dragons-booty">Dragon’s Booty</a>. Made with habanero peppers, apples and orange zest, it possesses a spice level that demands it be enjoyed in small doses. A 6-ounce jar is $18.</p>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pick-me-up-brownies"><strong>Pick-Me-Up Brownies</strong></h2>


Tartine—the <a href="https://tartinebakery.com/">award-winning bakery</a> founded by Elisabeth Prueitt and Chad Robertson in 2002 in the Mission District—has earned a devoted following with its classic offerings, like frangipane croissants, quiches and sourdough loaves.

<p>Tartine—the <a href="https://tartinebakery.com/">award-winning bakery</a> founded by Elisabeth Prueitt and Chad Robertson in 2002 in the Mission District—has earned a devoted following with its classic offerings, like frangipane croissants, quiches and sourdough loaves. </p>

Tartine’s Brownie Trio ($12.75) at Tartine Manufactory on Alabama Street in San Francisco. | Sophie Bearman/TheStandard


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/mg_0262.jpg?w=2048" alt="Two packages of brownies sit side by side on display at a bakery with the label &quot;tartine brownie trio&quot; on them in blue." class="wp-image-227926"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Tartine’s Brownie Trio is for sale at Tartine Manufactory on Alabama Street.</figcaption></figure>


But it's Tartine’s lesser-known brownies that steal the show in my household. Made with Valrhona chocolate, they are exceptionally rich and have a smooth, luxurious texture that melts in your mouth. A three-pack costs $12.75 and should be consumed within five to seven days.

<p>But it's Tartine’s lesser-known brownies that steal the show in my household. Made with Valrhona chocolate, they are exceptionally rich and have a smooth, luxurious texture that melts in your mouth. A three-pack costs $12.75 and should be consumed within five to seven days.</p>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shrubs-for-seltzer"><strong>Shrubs for Seltzer</strong></h2>


I discovered Sebastopol’s <a href="https://www.littleappletreats.com/">Little Apple Treats</a> at the Renegade Craft Fair at Fort Mason. On display was an array of granolas, apple ciders and caramels in flavors like Spiced Apple Pie and Toasted Almond.

<p>I discovered Sebastopol’s <a href="https://www.littleappletreats.com/">Little Apple Treats</a> at the Renegade Craft Fair at Fort Mason. On display was an array of granolas, apple ciders and caramels in flavors like Spiced Apple Pie and Toasted Almond. </p>

Blackberry Lemonade shrub from Little Apple Treats.


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/img_0290.jpg?w=2048" alt="A bottle of purple blackberry shrub with a cork at the top rests on a table, with the author's hand next to it for scale." class="wp-image-227962"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The author displays a bottle of Blackberry Lemonade shrub from Little Apple Treats.</figcaption></figure>


But it was the colorful <a href="https://www.littleappletreats.com/collections/cidervinegarshrubs">variety of shrubs</a> that really drew my attention. I was so intrigued I left with three bottles: Blackberry Lemonade, Strawberry + Pink Peppercorn and Ginger + Hibiscus. These vinegary syrups quickly became a staple in my kitchen, finding their way most often into sparkling water but also salad dressings and marinades. A 374-milliliter bottle costs $24.95.

<p>But it was the colorful <a href="https://www.littleappletreats.com/collections/cidervinegarshrubs">variety of shrubs</a> that really drew my attention. I was so intrigued I left with three bottles: Blackberry Lemonade, Strawberry + Pink Peppercorn and Ginger + Hibiscus. These vinegary syrups quickly became a staple in my kitchen, finding their way most often into sparkling water but also salad dressings and marinades. A 374-milliliter bottle costs $24.95.</p>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-herby-dipping-oil"><strong>Herby Dipping Oil</strong></h2>


A house guest bought us a bottle of <a href="https://www.stonehouseoliveoil.com/">Stonehouse California Olive Oil</a>’s popular <a href="https://www.stonehouseoliveoil.com/collections/olive-oils/products/dipping-oil-blend?variant=36334902182037">dipping oil</a> as a thank-you gift, and we haven’t been the same since. The company sources its olives from farms in Northern California, all within an hour-and-a-half drive from San Francisco, so you’re tasting something truly local. This rich, herb-infused concoction has become an essential in our pantry, perfect for dressing salads or dipping good sourdough bread.

<p>A house guest bought us a bottle of <a href="https://www.stonehouseoliveoil.com/">Stonehouse California Olive Oil</a>’s popular <a href="https://www.stonehouseoliveoil.com/collections/olive-oils/products/dipping-oil-blend?variant=36334902182037">dipping oil</a> as a thank-you gift, and we haven’t been the same since. The company sources its olives from farms in Northern California, all within an hour-and-a-half drive from San Francisco, so you’re tasting something truly local. This rich, herb-infused concoction has become an essential in our pantry, perfect for dressing salads or dipping good sourdough bread. </p>


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/stonehouse_dippingoil_img_0208_erinscott_highres_1080x-1.webp?w=1080" alt="Two glass bottles of balsamic, herb dipping oil stand side by side with a blurred white background behind them." class="wp-image-227923"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Two bottles of Stonehouse's dipping oil are displayed side-by-side.</figcaption></figure>


A 375-milliliter bottle costs $20. The dipping oil—and an assortment of other oils—are readily available at Stonehouse’s store in the Ferry Building, which is coincidentally a <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/09/29/best-food-ferry-building-san-francisco-guide/">great spot to build your entire gift basket</a> if you’re short on time this holiday season.&nbsp;

Food hall reborn: The Standard guide to the Ferry Building Marketplace

<p>A 375-milliliter bottle costs $20. The dipping oil—and an assortment of other oils—are readily available at Stonehouse’s store in the Ferry Building, which is coincidentally a <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/09/29/best-food-ferry-building-san-francisco-guide/">great spot to build your entire gift basket</a> if you’re short on time this holiday season.&nbsp;</p>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-loose-leaf-tea"><strong>Loose-Leaf Tea</strong></h2>


I first discovered <a href="https://vitaltealeaf.net/">Vital Tea Leaf</a> when <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/09/20/chef-martin-yans-recommendations-for-what-to-eat-and-where-to-shop-in-chinatown/">touring</a> San Francisco’s Chinatown with the acclaimed Bay Area chef Martin Yan. At the end of the gastronomic journey, we piled into the wood-paneled tea shop on Grant Avenue with friendly greetings from owner Uncle Gee. He sat us at the tea bar and immediately began brewing and pouring samples of fresh, steaming teas. We tasted ginseng, white tea and pu-erh—and I departed with a bag of coconut red. Since then, I’ve been refreshing my loose-leaf tea from Vital Tea Leaf. As Yan told our tour, “only the cheap tea is in tea bags.” I’m including a 4-ounce, $15 container of <a href="https://vitaltealeaf.net/products/mango-red">Mango Red Tea</a> in my gift basket.

Chef Martin Yan’s recommendations for what to eat and where to shop in Chinatown

<p>I first discovered <a href="https://vitaltealeaf.net/">Vital Tea Leaf</a> when <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/09/20/chef-martin-yans-recommendations-for-what-to-eat-and-where-to-shop-in-chinatown/">touring</a> San Francisco’s Chinatown with the acclaimed Bay Area chef Martin Yan. At the end of the gastronomic journey, we piled into the wood-paneled tea shop on Grant Avenue with friendly greetings from owner Uncle Gee. He sat us at the tea bar and immediately began brewing and pouring samples of fresh, steaming teas. We tasted ginseng, white tea and pu-erh—and I departed with a bag of coconut red. Since then, I’ve been refreshing my loose-leaf tea from Vital Tea Leaf. As Yan told our tour, “only the cheap tea is in tea bags.” I’m including a 4-ounce, $15 container of <a href="https://vitaltealeaf.net/products/mango-red">Mango Red Tea</a> in my gift basket.</p>


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/img_0277.jpg?w=2048" alt="A silver, see-through bag of tea rests on a table with red tea inside it and a label that says mango red tea." class="wp-image-227960"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A 4-ounce bag of Vital Tea Leaf's Mango Red Tea is $15.</figcaption></figure>


All told, I shelled out around $100 for the five items in my gift basket. Putting them all in a locally sourced basket <a href="https://www.moriahokun.com/about-1">from weaver Moriah Okun</a> for around $40 is a nice touch, or simply <a href="https://www.worldmarket.com/p/natural-gift-basket-kit-with-handle-447010.html?mrkgadid=&amp;mrkgcl=660&amp;mrkgen=&amp;mrkgbflag=&amp;mrkgcat=&amp;camp=ppc%3Agoogle%3A_pMax_%2BHomeDecorSeasonal&amp;acctid=21700000001660222&amp;dskeywordid=&amp;lid=58700008472812176&amp;dsproductgroupid=&amp;product_id=447010&amp;merchid=5165106&amp;prodctry=US&amp;prodlang=en&amp;channel=online&amp;storeid=&amp;device=c&amp;network=x&amp;matchtype=&amp;locationid=9031939&amp;creative=&amp;targetid=&amp;campaignid=20359355890&amp;adgroupid=&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQiAgqGrBhDtARIsAM5s0_kdJJl4llDHygPDhzvaNx98m4hsGiadQj63Pd168xsht0Eau63BPecaAm5FEALw_wcB&amp;gclsrc=aw.ds">buy one online</a> for $10, and you’re looking at a thoughtful gift for friends and family in any zip code.

<p>All told, I shelled out around $100 for the five items in my gift basket. Putting them all in a locally sourced basket <a href="https://www.moriahokun.com/about-1">from weaver Moriah Okun</a> for around $40 is a nice touch, or simply <a href="https://www.worldmarket.com/p/natural-gift-basket-kit-with-handle-447010.html?mrkgadid=&amp;mrkgcl=660&amp;mrkgen=&amp;mrkgbflag=&amp;mrkgcat=&amp;camp=ppc%3Agoogle%3A_pMax_%2BHomeDecorSeasonal&amp;acctid=21700000001660222&amp;dskeywordid=&amp;lid=58700008472812176&amp;dsproductgroupid=&amp;product_id=447010&amp;merchid=5165106&amp;prodctry=US&amp;prodlang=en&amp;channel=online&amp;storeid=&amp;device=c&amp;network=x&amp;matchtype=&amp;locationid=9031939&amp;creative=&amp;targetid=&amp;campaignid=20359355890&amp;adgroupid=&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQiAgqGrBhDtARIsAM5s0_kdJJl4llDHygPDhzvaNx98m4hsGiadQj63Pd168xsht0Eau63BPecaAm5FEALw_wcB&amp;gclsrc=aw.ds">buy one online</a> for $10, and you’re looking at a thoughtful gift for friends and family in any zip code.</p>

How to make your own San Francisco Bay Area holiday gift basket

Maryann Jones Thompson

Shelley D. Fargo

You don’t have to <a href="https://sfstandard.com/community/all-this-rain-means-another-superbloom-is-likely-bbut-experts-fear-the-trampling-hordes/">drive to Southern California</a> to see the ground bursting with flowers. The agricultural fields of the Bay Area are bursting with their own “superbloom” right now.

<p>You don’t have to <a href="https://sfstandard.com/community/all-this-rain-means-another-superbloom-is-likely-bbut-experts-fear-the-trampling-hordes/">drive to Southern California</a> to see the ground bursting with flowers. The agricultural fields of the Bay Area are bursting with their own “superbloom” right now.</p>

Wild mustard season happens every January through March. And the more winter rain, the more flowers pop up—and that means this year is a big one.

<p>Wild mustard season happens every January through March. And the more winter rain, the more flowers pop up—and that means this year is a big one.</p>

“It’s really an embarrassment of riches,” said Chris Vomvolakis of Sonoma County Tourism. “Because of the January storms and the abundance of water, there has been an earlier explosion of wildflowers throughout the county.”

<p>“It’s really an embarrassment of riches,” said Chris Vomvolakis of Sonoma County Tourism. “Because of the January storms and the abundance of water, there has been an earlier explosion of wildflowers throughout the county.”</p>

While crops are dormant, mustard flowers burst to life in the fields protecting and replenishing the soil while signaling the coming of spring. Farmers later till the mustard into the soil, providing mulch, nutrients and phosphorus.

<p>While crops are dormant, mustard flowers burst to life in the fields protecting and replenishing the soil while signaling the coming of spring. Farmers later till the mustard into the soil, providing mulch, nutrients and phosphorus.</p>

<strong>READ MORE</strong>: <a href="https://sfstandard.com/community/all-this-rain-means-another-superbloom-is-likely-bbut-experts-fear-the-trampling-hordes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">All This Rain Means Another Superbloom Is Likely, but Experts Fear the Trampling Hordes</a>

<p><strong>READ MORE</strong>: <a href="https://sfstandard.com/community/all-this-rain-means-another-superbloom-is-likely-bbut-experts-fear-the-trampling-hordes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">All This Rain Means Another Superbloom Is Likely, but Experts Fear the Trampling Hordes</a></p>

“If I had to pick the best, most picturesque, most Instagrammable location in Sonoma County, I would say it would be in the fields on the south side of Highway 12 between Santa Rosa and Sebastopol” Vomvolakis said. “Glorious yellow mustard grass growing up around dormant oak trees as far as one can see.”

<p>“If I had to pick the best, most picturesque, most Instagrammable location in Sonoma County, I would say it would be in the fields on the south side of Highway 12 between Santa Rosa and Sebastopol” Vomvolakis said. “Glorious yellow mustard grass growing up around dormant oak trees as far as one can see.”</p>

The Wine Country is one of the best places to see Bay Area’s mustard superbloom, with yellow flowers contrasting the old vines and blue skies. It’s also time for almond, cherry and other flowering trees to bloom, trimming just about every park and greenbelt in the North Bay with bright buds.

<p>The Wine Country is one of the best places to see Bay Area’s mustard superbloom, with yellow flowers contrasting the old vines and blue skies. It’s also time for almond, cherry and other flowering trees to bloom, trimming just about every park and greenbelt in the North Bay with bright buds.</p>

As part of its <a href="https://www.visitnapavalley.com/events/wild-mustard-season/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mustard Season events</a>, Napa Valley puts out an <a href="https://assets.simpleviewinc.com/simpleview/image/upload/v1/clients/napavalley/Napa_Valley_Mustard_Season_Map_2023_540472ed-0f9f-47b7-b250-60cd197d870f.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">entire map guiding visitors to superbloom</a> hotspots. In fact, Downtown Napa will host its annual <a href="https://www.napavalleymustardcelebration.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mustard Celebration</a> this weekend from Feb. 18-20, with special menus and—of course—wine tastings.

<p>As part of its <a href="https://www.visitnapavalley.com/events/wild-mustard-season/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mustard Season events</a>, Napa Valley puts out an <a href="https://assets.simpleviewinc.com/simpleview/image/upload/v1/clients/napavalley/Napa_Valley_Mustard_Season_Map_2023_540472ed-0f9f-47b7-b250-60cd197d870f.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">entire map guiding visitors to superbloom</a> hotspots. In fact, Downtown Napa will host its annual <a href="https://www.napavalleymustardcelebration.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mustard Celebration</a> this weekend from Feb. 18-20, with special menus and—of course—wine tastings.</p>

Farms in the South Bay are also an excellent place to see the mustard in bloom. And after a <a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/we-gotta-melt-the-guns-half-moon-bay-reacts-after-seven-shot-dead/">tragic year for the agricultural community and residents</a> of Half Moon Bay, the town is welcoming a change of season.&nbsp;

<p>Farms in the South Bay are also an excellent place to see the mustard in bloom. And after a <a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/we-gotta-melt-the-guns-half-moon-bay-reacts-after-seven-shot-dead/">tragic year for the agricultural community and residents</a> of Half Moon Bay, the town is welcoming a change of season.&nbsp;</p>

The Standard pulled together a list of the best places to see mustard blooming north and south of the city. You can stroll, hike drive or bike around to see this rite of pre-spring but for goodness sake, please stay out of the fields.

<p>The Standard pulled together a list of the best places to see mustard blooming north and south of the city. You can stroll, hike drive or bike around to see this rite of pre-spring but for goodness sake, please stay out of the fields.</p>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-where-to-see-mustard-fields-near-sf">Where To See Mustard Fields Near SF</h2>


<h2 id="h-where-to-see-mustard-fields-near-sf">Where To See Mustard Fields Near SF</h2>

Wild mustard among old vines in Sonoma County. | Sonoma County Tourism


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/mustard-vineyards_spring_Sonoma_County-small-2500x1180.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-128129"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Wild mustard among old vines in Sonoma County. | Courtesy Sonoma County Tourism</figcaption></figure>


<a href="https://www.sonomacounty.com/articles/magic-mustard-vineyards">Sonoma County</a>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sonoma-county"><a href="https://www.sonomacounty.com/articles/magic-mustard-vineyards">Sonoma County</a></h2>


<h2 id="h-sonoma-county"><a href="https://www.sonomacounty.com/articles/magic-mustard-vineyards">Sonoma County</a></h2>

<strong>Sonoma Valley</strong>: Along the south side of Highway 12 from Santa Rosa to Sonoma

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<li><strong>Sonoma Valley</strong>: Along the south side of Highway 12 from Santa Rosa to Sonoma</li>

<strong>Alexander Valley</strong>: From Healdsburg to Geyserville on Highway 128 and River Road&nbsp;

<li><strong>Alexander Valley</strong>: From Healdsburg to Geyserville on Highway 128 and River Road&nbsp;</li>

<strong>Sugarloaf Ridge State Park</strong> : Hike around the Mayacamas near Kenwood

<li><strong>Sugarloaf Ridge State Park</strong> : Hike around the Mayacamas near Kenwood</li>

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<ul><li><strong>Sonoma Valley</strong>: Along the south side of Highway 12 from Santa Rosa to Sonoma</li><li><strong>Alexander Valley</strong>: From Healdsburg to Geyserville on Highway 128 and River Road&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Sugarloaf Ridge State Park</strong> : Hike around the Mayacamas near Kenwood</li></ul>

Mustard blooms in a Napa vineyard. 
| Bob McClenahan for Visit Napa Valley


<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/173-3-4363-large.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-128146"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mustard blooms in a Napa vineyard. | Bob McClenahan for Visit Napa Valley</figcaption></figure>


<a href="https://www.visitnapavalley.com/events/wild-mustard-season/#mustard-celebration-events" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Napa Valley</a>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-napa-valley"><a href="https://www.visitnapavalley.com/events/wild-mustard-season/#mustard-celebration-events" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Napa Valley</a></h2>


<h2 id="h-napa-valley"><a href="https://www.visitnapavalley.com/events/wild-mustard-season/#mustard-celebration-events" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Napa Valley</a></h2>

<strong>Downtown Napa</strong>: Sample the Mustard Celebration on Feb. 18-20&nbsp;

<li><strong>Downtown Napa</strong>: Sample the Mustard Celebration on Feb. 18-20&nbsp;</li>

<strong>Yountville</strong>: Zero in on the fields, food and wineries near Highway 29

<li><strong>Yountville</strong>: Zero in on the fields, food and wineries near Highway 29</li>

<strong>Silverado Trail</strong>: Gaze at the vineyards on both sides of the road from Napa to St. Helena

<li><strong>Silverado Trail</strong>: Gaze at the vineyards on both sides of the road from Napa to St. Helena</li>

<ul><li><strong>Downtown Napa</strong>: Sample the Mustard Celebration on Feb. 18-20&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Yountville</strong>: Zero in on the fields, food and wineries near Highway 29</li><li><strong>Silverado Trail</strong>: Gaze at the vineyards on both sides of the road from Napa to St. Helena</li></ul>

Mustard and oxalis in bloom south of Half Moon Bay. |  Kevin Henney for Visit Half Moon Bay


<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Mustard-and-Oxalis-in-bloom-south-of-HMB-Kevin-Henney-Visit-HMB-.png" alt="" class="wp-image-128138"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mustard and oxalis in bloom south of Half Moon Bay. |  Kevin Henney for Visit Half Moon Bay</figcaption></figure>


<a href="https://www.visithalfmoonbay.org/discover/farms-markets" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">South Bay</a>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-south-bay"><a href="https://www.visithalfmoonbay.org/discover/farms-markets" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">South Bay</a></h2>


<h2 id="h-south-bay"><a href="https://www.visithalfmoonbay.org/discover/farms-markets" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">South Bay</a></h2>

<strong>Iacopi Farms</strong>: Pay $10 to<a href="https://iacopifarms.business.site/?utm_source=gmb&amp;utm_medium=referral" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> roam the mustard fields</a> on Saturdays and Sundays. The 2023 bloom has peaked, so Feb. 18-20 may be the last weekend of the year. Observe “No Trespassing” signs nearby.

<li><strong>Iacopi Farms</strong>: Pay $10 to<a href="https://iacopifarms.business.site/?utm_source=gmb&amp;utm_medium=referral" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> roam the mustard fields</a> on Saturdays and Sundays. The 2023 bloom has peaked, so Feb. 18-20 may be the last weekend of the year. Observe “No Trespassing” signs nearby.</li>

<strong>Highway 1 to Pescadero</strong>: From Half Moon Bay, head south to pass many other fields of mustard at farms along the coast. Again, please do not enter fields or trespass.

<li><strong>Highway 1 to Pescadero</strong>: From Half Moon Bay, head south to pass many other fields of mustard at farms along the coast. Again, please do not enter fields or trespass.</li>

<ul><li><strong>Iacopi Farms</strong>: Pay $10 to<a href="https://iacopifarms.business.site/?utm_source=gmb&amp;utm_medium=referral" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> roam the mustard fields</a> on Saturdays and Sundays. The 2023 bloom has peaked, so Feb. 18-20 may be the last weekend of the year. Observe “No Trespassing” signs nearby.</li><li><strong>Highway 1 to Pescadero</strong>: From Half Moon Bay, head south to pass many other fields of mustard at farms along the coast. Again, please do not enter fields or trespass.</li></ul>

Find the Bay Area’s best superblooms right now

George Kelly

Flood advisories were in effect across the Bay Area on Wednesday morning as heavy rain pummeled the area and its airports. Travelers at <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/18/sfo-flight-delays-2024-runway-construction-project/">San Francisco International Airport</a> were facing dozens of delays and cancellations, according to data from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.flightaware.com/live/cancelled/today/KSFO" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FlightAware</a>.

SFO flight delays coming in 2024 due to construction project

<p>Flood advisories were in effect across the Bay Area on Wednesday morning as heavy rain pummeled the area and its airports. Travelers at <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/18/sfo-flight-delays-2024-runway-construction-project/">San Francisco International Airport</a> were facing dozens of delays and cancellations, according to data from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.flightaware.com/live/cancelled/today/KSFO" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FlightAware</a>.</p>

As of 7:30 a.m., 71 flights were delayed, and two—one from United Airlines and one from SkyWest—had been canceled. By 10:30 a.m., that number had risen to 165 flights.

<p>As of 7:30 a.m., 71 flights were delayed, and two—one from United Airlines and one from SkyWest—had been canceled. By 10:30 a.m., that number had risen to 165 flights.</p>

Early tallies found United Airlines had the most delays with 19, followed by Southwest with 17, SkyWest with eight, Delta with five and British Airways with four. More than 15 flights coming into SFO were late, while more than 50 leaving the airport were behind schedule. By mid-morning, United and SkyWest saw 57 and 33 delayed flights respectively, while the airport had 81 delayed arrivals and 84 delayed departures.

<p>Early tallies found United Airlines had the most delays with 19, followed by Southwest with 17, SkyWest with eight, Delta with five and British Airways with four. More than 15 flights coming into SFO were late, while more than 50 leaving the airport were behind schedule. By mid-morning, United and SkyWest saw 57 and 33 delayed flights respectively, while the airport had 81 delayed arrivals and 84 delayed departures.</p>

Travelers saw long lines for security at San Francisco International Airport's Terminal 2 on Wednesday morning.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/img_4337.jpg?w=2500" alt="A line of people in dark clothing with suitcases stands under fluorescent lights in a high ceilinged room." class="wp-image-234197"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Travelers faced long lines for security at San Francisco International Airport's Terminal 2 on Wednesday.</figcaption></figure>


The other two major San Francisco Bay Area airports were also dealing with delayed arrivals and departures for flights Wednesday.

<p>The other two major San Francisco Bay Area airports were also dealing with delayed arrivals and departures for flights Wednesday.</p>

At Oakland International Airport, eight flights were delayed from Southwest, and one flight from SkyWest had been canceled. By mid-morning, a total of 42 flights were delayed, with two additional Southwest flights canceled. At San Jose's Mineta International Airport, five flights had been delayed by 7:35 a.m., increasing by mid-morning to 28 flights.

<p>At Oakland International Airport, eight flights were delayed from Southwest, and one flight from SkyWest had been canceled. By mid-morning, a total of 42 flights were delayed, with two additional Southwest flights canceled. At San Jose's Mineta International Airport, five flights had been delayed by 7:35 a.m., increasing by mid-morning to 28 flights.</p>

The Federal Aviation Administration issued a traffic management program early Wednesday for SFO, saying some arriving flights would see&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fly.faa.gov/flyfaa/flyfaaindex.jsp?ARPT=SFO&amp;p=0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">delays</a>&nbsp;averaging around 59 minutes due to low ceilings and wind. A similar program on Tuesday saw delays averaging 55 minutes.

<p>The Federal Aviation Administration issued a traffic management program early Wednesday for SFO, saying some arriving flights would see&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fly.faa.gov/flyfaa/flyfaaindex.jsp?ARPT=SFO&amp;p=0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">delays</a>&nbsp;averaging around 59 minutes due to low ceilings and wind. A similar program on Tuesday saw delays averaging 55 minutes.</p>

core/embed

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://twitter.com/NWSBayArea/status/1737496293696827442?s=20
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A social media post from the National Weather Service Wednesday morning.</figcaption></figure>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Urban and Small Stream Flooding Caused By Excessive Rainfall Is Expected.. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CAwx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CAwx</a> <a href="https://t.co/Ann3CdViHQ">pic.twitter.com/Ann3CdViHQ</a></p>&mdash; NWS Bay Area 🌉 (@NWSBayArea) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSBayArea/status/1737496293696827442?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2023</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The National Weather Service issued an urban and small-streaming flood advisory for the city of San Francisco on Wednesday morning. Downtown San Francisco recorded 0.42 inches of rain between 1 a.m. and 7 a.m., according to the National Weather Service.

<p>The National Weather Service issued an urban and small-streaming flood advisory for the city of San Francisco on Wednesday morning. Downtown San Francisco recorded 0.42 inches of rain between 1 a.m. and 7 a.m., according to the National Weather Service.</p>

Flood advisories were also in effect Wednesday morning for Marin and Sonoma counties, where between 0.5 and 1.25 inches of rain had fallen by daybreak. Areas that were expected to see flooding included Santa Rosa, Petaluma, San Rafael, Novato, Rohnert Park, Windsor, Mill Valley, San Anselmo, Larkspur, Healdsburg, Sonoma, Corte Madera, Tiburon, Cloverdale, Fairfax, Sebastopol, Cotati, Sausalito, Tomales and Roseland.

<p>Flood advisories were also in effect Wednesday morning for Marin and Sonoma counties, where between 0.5 and 1.25 inches of rain had fallen by daybreak. Areas that were expected to see flooding included Santa Rosa, Petaluma, San Rafael, Novato, Rohnert Park, Windsor, Mill Valley, San Anselmo, Larkspur, Healdsburg, Sonoma, Corte Madera, Tiburon, Cloverdale, Fairfax, Sebastopol, Cotati, Sausalito, Tomales and Roseland.</p>

Flood advisories were also in effect for Alameda, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, Contra Costa and Monterey counties. Some locations that were expected to experience flooding according to the weather service were San Jose, Oakland, Fremont, Hayward, Sunnyvale, Santa Clara, Berkeley, Richmond, San Leandro, Alameda, Union City, Milpitas, Newark, San Pablo, El Cerrito, San Lorenzo, Castro Valley, Albany, Pinole and Orinda.

<p>Flood advisories were also in effect for Alameda, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, Contra Costa and Monterey counties. Some locations that were expected to experience flooding according to the weather service were San Jose, Oakland, Fremont, Hayward, Sunnyvale, Santa Clara, Berkeley, Richmond, San Leandro, Alameda, Union City, Milpitas, Newark, San Pablo, El Cerrito, San Lorenzo, Castro Valley, Albany, Pinole and Orinda.</p>

A person stands over a cloud of steam rising from a manhole at Polk and Grove Streets in San Francisco on Wednesday, Dec. 20, 2023. A large storm is passing through the Bay Area bringing rain and wet weather prompting flood advisories and flight delays.


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/9p3a50941-1.jpg?w=2500" alt="A person crosses a wet street with steam rising from a manhole. It's a gloomy, overcast day." class="wp-image-234284"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A person stands over a cloud of steam rising from a manhole at Polk and Grove Streets in San Francisco on Wednesday</figcaption></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-2 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img data-id="234281" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/9p3a5033-1.jpeg?w=2500" alt="A car drives through a puddle, creating a large splash on a wet urban street." class="wp-image-234281"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A vehicle makes its was through a large puddle at Grove and Octavia Streets on Wednesday.</figcaption></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img data-id="234301" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/rain-wet-weather-san-francisco-01.jpeg?w=2500" alt="Cars drive through moderate flooding in an intersection." class="wp-image-234301"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Cars drive through moderate flooding at an intersection at 21st and Harrison Streets near Lake Merritt in Oakland on Wednesday.</figcaption></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img data-id="234304" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/rain-wet-weather-san-francisco-04.jpeg?w=2500" alt="A person holding an umbrella walks around Lake Merritt." class="wp-image-234304"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A person walks around Lake Merritt in the rain in Oakland on Wednesday.</figcaption></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img data-id="234303" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/rain-wet-weather-san-francisco-03.jpeg?w=2500" alt="Raindrops cover the windshield of a car at a stoplight." class="wp-image-234303"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Raindrops cover the windshield of a car on Broadway in downtown Oakland on Wednesday.</figcaption></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img data-id="234350" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/9p3a5210.jpeg?w=2500" alt="A person sets up an orange tent on a wet city sidewalk, while others with umbrellas pass by a colorful mural wall." class="wp-image-234350"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Travis Lambert, who’s currently staying at the Navigation Center on South Van Ness, helps others set up a tent on Market Street on Wednesday.</figcaption></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img data-id="234348" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/9p3a51501.jpg" alt="A rainy street in Chinatown with pedestrians holding umbrellas, lined with parked cars and red lanterns overhead." class="wp-image-234348"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Pedestrian walk through Chinatown in the rain.</figcaption></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img data-id="234345" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/9p3a51051.jpg" alt="A person under an umbrella sits on a bench in the rain, surrounded by belongings covered with a tarp." class="wp-image-234345"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A person experiencing homelessness holds an umbrella along the Embarcadero.</figcaption></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img data-id="234302" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/rain-wet-weather-san-francisco-02.jpeg?w=2500" alt="A person holding an umbrella waits for oncoming cars to pass before walking through a crosswalk." class="wp-image-234302"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A person holding an umbrella waits for oncoming cars at Harrison and 21st Streets near Lake Merritt in Oakland.</figcaption></figure>
</figure>


A vehicle makes its was through a large puddle at Grove and Octavia Streets in San Francisco on Wednesday, Dec. 20, 2023. A large storm is passing through the Bay Area bringing rain and wet weather prompting flood advisories and flight delays.


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/9p3a5033-1.jpeg?w=2500" alt="A car drives through a puddle, creating a large splash on a wet urban street." class="wp-image-234281"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A vehicle makes its was through a large puddle at Grove and Octavia Streets on Wednesday.</figcaption></figure>


Cars drive through moderate flooding in an intersection at 21st and Harrison Streets near Lake Merritt in Oakland on Wednesday, Dec. 20, 2023. A large storm is passing through the Bay Area bringing rain and wet weather prompting flood advisories and flight delays.


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/rain-wet-weather-san-francisco-01.jpeg?w=2500" alt="Cars drive through moderate flooding in an intersection." class="wp-image-234301"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Cars drive through moderate flooding at an intersection at 21st and Harrison Streets near Lake Merritt in Oakland on Wednesday.</figcaption></figure>


A person holding an umbrella walks around Lake Merritt in the rain in Oakland on Wednesday, Dec. 20, 2023. A large storm is passing through the Bay Area bringing rain and wet weather prompting flood advisories and flight delays.


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/rain-wet-weather-san-francisco-04.jpeg?w=2500" alt="A person holding an umbrella walks around Lake Merritt." class="wp-image-234304"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A person walks around Lake Merritt in the rain in Oakland on Wednesday.</figcaption></figure>


Raindrops cover the windshield of a car at a stoplight on Broadway in downtown Oakland on Wednesday, Dec. 20, 2023. A large storm is passing through the Bay Area bringing rain and wet weather prompting flood advisories and flight delays.


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/rain-wet-weather-san-francisco-03.jpeg?w=2500" alt="Raindrops cover the windshield of a car at a stoplight." class="wp-image-234303"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Raindrops cover the windshield of a car on Broadway in downtown Oakland on Wednesday.</figcaption></figure>


Travis Lambert, who is currently staying at the Navigation Center on South Van Ness, helps others set up a tent on Market Street in San Francisco on Wednesday, Dec. 20, 2023. A large storm is passing through the Bay Area bringing rain and wet weather prompting flood advisories and flight delays.


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/9p3a5210.jpeg?w=2500" alt="A person sets up an orange tent on a wet city sidewalk, while others with umbrellas pass by a colorful mural wall." class="wp-image-234350"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Travis Lambert, who’s currently staying at the Navigation Center on South Van Ness, helps others set up a tent on Market Street on Wednesday.</figcaption></figure>


Pedestrians holding umbrellas walk in the rain in Chinatown in San Francisco on Wednesday, Dec. 20, 2023. A large storm is passing through the Bay Area bringing rain and wet weather prompting flood advisories and flight delays.


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/9p3a51501.jpg" alt="A rainy street in Chinatown with pedestrians holding umbrellas, lined with parked cars and red lanterns overhead." class="wp-image-234348"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Pedestrian walk through Chinatown in the rain.</figcaption></figure>


A person experiencing homelessness holds an umbrella as its rains near the Embacadero in San Francisco on Wednesday, Dec. 20, 2023. A large storm is passing through the Bay Area bringing rain and wet weather prompting flood advisories and flight delays.


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/9p3a51051.jpg" alt="A person under an umbrella sits on a bench in the rain, surrounded by belongings covered with a tarp." class="wp-image-234345"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A person experiencing homelessness holds an umbrella along the Embarcadero.</figcaption></figure>


A person holding an umbrella waits for oncoming cars to pass before walking through a crosswalk at Harrison and 21st Streets near Lake Merritt in Oakland on Wednesday, Dec. 20, 2023. A large storm is passing through the Bay Area bringing rain and wet weather prompting flood advisories and flight delays.


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/rain-wet-weather-san-francisco-02.jpeg?w=2500" alt="A person holding an umbrella waits for oncoming cars to pass before walking through a crosswalk." class="wp-image-234302"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A person holding an umbrella waits for oncoming cars at Harrison and 21st Streets near Lake Merritt in Oakland.</figcaption></figure>


core/gallery

<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped"><figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/9p3a5033-1.jpeg?w=2500" alt="A car drives through a puddle, creating a large splash on a wet urban street." class="wp-image-234281"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A vehicle makes its was through a large puddle at Grove and Octavia Streets on Wednesday.</figcaption></figure><figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/rain-wet-weather-san-francisco-01.jpeg?w=2500" alt="Cars drive through moderate flooding in an intersection." class="wp-image-234301"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Cars drive through moderate flooding at an intersection at 21st and Harrison Streets near Lake Merritt in Oakland on Wednesday.</figcaption></figure><figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/rain-wet-weather-san-francisco-04.jpeg?w=2500" alt="A person holding an umbrella walks around Lake Merritt." class="wp-image-234304"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A person walks around Lake Merritt in the rain in Oakland on Wednesday.</figcaption></figure><figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/rain-wet-weather-san-francisco-03.jpeg?w=2500" alt="Raindrops cover the windshield of a car at a stoplight." class="wp-image-234303"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Raindrops cover the windshield of a car on Broadway in downtown Oakland on Wednesday.</figcaption></figure><figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/9p3a5210.jpeg?w=2500" alt="A person sets up an orange tent on a wet city sidewalk, while others with umbrellas pass by a colorful mural wall." class="wp-image-234350"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Travis Lambert, who’s currently staying at the Navigation Center on South Van Ness, helps others set up a tent on Market Street on Wednesday.</figcaption></figure><figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/9p3a51501.jpg" alt="A rainy street in Chinatown with pedestrians holding umbrellas, lined with parked cars and red lanterns overhead." class="wp-image-234348"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Pedestrian walk through Chinatown in the rain.</figcaption></figure><figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/9p3a51051.jpg" alt="A person under an umbrella sits on a bench in the rain, surrounded by belongings covered with a tarp." class="wp-image-234345"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A person experiencing homelessness holds an umbrella along the Embarcadero.</figcaption></figure><figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/rain-wet-weather-san-francisco-02.jpeg?w=2500" alt="A person holding an umbrella waits for oncoming cars to pass before walking through a crosswalk." class="wp-image-234302"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A person holding an umbrella waits for oncoming cars at Harrison and 21st Streets near Lake Merritt in Oakland.</figcaption></figure></figure>

National Weather Service meteorologist Brayden Murdock told The Standard that rains were still slightly behind pace for the rain year-to-date totals. <br><br>"The fact that we didn't get a big October atmospheric river is why we're seeing such a difference in numbers," Murdock said Wednesday. "To say that we're too far from average, I mean, that's not completely fair."

<p>National Weather Service meteorologist Brayden Murdock told The Standard that rains were still slightly behind pace for the rain year-to-date totals. <br><br>"The fact that we didn't get a big October atmospheric river is why we're seeing such a difference in numbers," Murdock said Wednesday. "To say that we're too far from average, I mean, that's not completely fair."</p>

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://twitter.com/UCB_CSSL/status/1737513333467869680?s=20
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A social media post from UC Berkeley's Central Sierra Snow Lab shares word of light snow readings after recent storm systems.</figcaption></figure>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">We received 2.4&quot; (6 cm) of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/snow?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#snow</a> yesterday when the rain transitioned to snow in late morning. That brings our season total to 29&quot; (73.5 cm), which is 37% of normal for this date. We now have relatively warm and calm conditions at the lab. 1/3 <a href="https://t.co/KYcyurpTjP">pic.twitter.com/KYcyurpTjP</a></p>&mdash; UC Berkeley Central Sierra Snow Lab (@UCB_CSSL) <a href="https://twitter.com/UCB_CSSL/status/1737513333467869680?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2023</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

In the weather service's Sacramento office, meteorologist Scott Rowe told The Standard that the storm system's warmth meant only minor amounts of snow at or above 7,000 to 8,000 feet. <br><br>"For interior northern California, it is largely a rain event, including in the mountains," Rowe said Wednesday. "Most of the precipitation has wrapped up, with more significant accumulations of snowfall from Yosemite National Park southward in the High Sierra elevations."<br><br>Rowe said he expected relatively quiet weather over the Christmas weekend, but added that a cooler system due around the middle of next week could bode well for snow prospects.

<p>In the weather service's Sacramento office, meteorologist Scott Rowe told The Standard that the storm system's warmth meant only minor amounts of snow at or above 7,000 to 8,000 feet. <br><br>"For interior northern California, it is largely a rain event, including in the mountains," Rowe said Wednesday. "Most of the precipitation has wrapped up, with more significant accumulations of snowfall from Yosemite National Park southward in the High Sierra elevations."<br><br>Rowe said he expected relatively quiet weather over the Christmas weekend, but added that a cooler system due around the middle of next week could bode well for snow prospects.</p>

In San Francisco, Muni said due to track flooding on the Embarcadero,&nbsp;F Market streetcars would switchback at the Ferry Building and bus shuttles would provide service along the Embarcadero in both directions between Fisherman's Wharf and the Ferry Building.

<p>In San Francisco, Muni said due to track flooding on the Embarcadero,&nbsp;F Market streetcars would switchback at the Ferry Building and bus shuttles would provide service along the Embarcadero in both directions between Fisherman's Wharf and the Ferry Building.</p>

BART trains were running on a slower schedule due to wet tracks.

<p>BART trains were running on a slower schedule due to wet tracks.</p>

Rachel Gordon, a spokesperson for the Department of Public Works, told The Standard that crews had responded Tuesday to about 150 blocked catch basins, as well as a tree down on a car, 14 downed small branches and about a dozen rain-related potholes. <br><br>Gordon added that workers have also handed out close to 800 sandbags to city residents since last weekend, and had not encountered significant flooding Tuesday in the wake of about a dozen instances Monday of minor localized flooding due to clogged catch basins. No property damage was reported in those incidents, she said.

<p>Rachel Gordon, a spokesperson for the Department of Public Works, told The Standard that crews had responded Tuesday to about 150 blocked catch basins, as well as a tree down on a car, 14 downed small branches and about a dozen rain-related potholes. <br><br>Gordon added that workers have also handed out close to 800 sandbags to city residents since last weekend, and had not encountered significant flooding Tuesday in the wake of about a dozen instances Monday of minor localized flooding due to clogged catch basins. No property damage was reported in those incidents, she said.</p>

Flood advisories in effect across Bay Area; rains slow travelers at SFO, OAK, SJC

Julie Zigoris

A carpet of green vistas unfolds along the drive deep into Sonoma’s “West County,” and somewhere along the road, cell phone service blissfully cuts out. Your blood pressure drops; your mind clears.&nbsp;

<p>A carpet of green vistas unfolds along the drive deep into Sonoma’s “West County,” and somewhere along the road, cell phone service blissfully cuts out. Your blood pressure drops; your mind clears.&nbsp;</p>

When the squeeze of city living gets to be too much, Occidental has your prescription.

<p>When the squeeze of city living gets to be too much, Occidental has your prescription.</p>

Howard’s Cafe in Occidental, California in Sonoma County in August 21, 2021. | Frank Schulenburg/Creative Commons/Wikimedia


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/TravelOccidental090122_INLINED3-1-2500x1667.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-80920"/><figcaption>Howard’s Cafe in Occidental, California in Sonoma County in August 21, 2021. | Frank Schulenburg/Creative Commons/Wikimedia</figcaption></figure>


The name of the postage stamp-sized hamlet means “west” for good reason—here, you’re only six miles from the ocean. Nestled among stands of firs and redwoods with slender church spires stretching to the sky, the town makes you feel as if you’ve stepped into the spine of a storybook.&nbsp;

<p>The name of the postage stamp-sized hamlet means “west” for good reason—here, you’re only six miles from the ocean. Nestled among stands of firs and redwoods with slender church spires stretching to the sky, the town makes you feel as if you’ve stepped into the spine of a storybook.&nbsp;</p>

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Journeys: This verdant West Sonoma County town has your prescription for relaxation