Best bets

It’s all happening at the zoo.

South San Francisco’s Ballet Folklorico Infantil de South San Francisco will perform Saturday at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. at the Carousel at the San Francisco Zoo as part of the zoo’s Third Annual Reindeer Romp.

Ballet Folklórico Infantil, founded in 1985, is currently co-sponsored by South San Francisco’s Department of Recreation and Community Services. Children of all ethnic backgrounds are welcome to join the group beginning at 4 years of age.

The ballet performs throughout the community at churches, adult care facilities, senior centers and community events, and strives to foster the children’s sense of self-esteem and appreciation of Mexican Culture. The zoo’s popular Reindeer Romp gives visitors the chance to see Santa’s special reindeer, Holly, Velvet, Peppermint and Belle, accompanied by reindeer interpreters, who share stories about these wonderful animals.

And there’s more. Families, couples and ice-skating enthusiasts will delight in taking to the ice at the zoo’s first-ever holiday ice skating rink. The 5,400-square foot tent-covered rink is highlighted with hundreds of twinkling lights and holiday music. The San Francisco Zoo is located at 1 Zoo Road, San Francisco, 94132, on the Great Highway, between Skyline and Sloat boulevards, next to the Pacific Ocean. The zoo is open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., 365 days a year, including Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.

Donate a coat

Stop by Hillsdale Shopping Center in San Mateo this weekend and donate a new or used, clean coat to Samaritan House’s One Warm Coat Drive. Drop off a coat or jacket at the Information Center Saturday or Sunday during mall hours. Bring any outwear that will keep someone warm, including sweaters, jackets and sweatshirts. Hats or mittens would be appreciated also.

Pet photos with Santa

Santa is waiting for you and your special someone. Companion animals and their people are welcome at photo sessions with Santa 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Petsmart, El Camino Real at Hillsdale Boulevard, behind Barnes & Noble, San Mateo. Digital photos are $8.95 and proceeds benefit Homeless Cat Network. For more information call 286-9013 or 577-9010.