100 things to do for the holidays in Central Jersey
- RVCC Chorale Annual Holiday Concert: 8 p.m. Dec. 4, Raritan Valley Community College, Welpe Theatre, 118 Lamington Road, North Branch section of Branchburg.
- 38th Annual Festival of Trees: Dec. 4 through Dec. 27, The Environmental Education Center, 190 Lord Stirling Road, Basking Ridge section of Bernards.
- Hunterdon Holiday Parade: 5 p.m. Dec. 6, Main Street, Flemington.
Let's face it, there's always plenty of things to do in Central Jersey.
And, with the holidays upon us once again, there's even more things to do.
From ice skating, to breakfasts with Santa, to concerts, there's enough to keep even the most bored Central Jersey resident busy.
And, what would the holidays be without some Christmas music?
WAWZ STAR 99.1-Central Jersey is playing all Christmas music through Christmas Day.
STAR 99.1 is New Jersey and New York City’s only Christmas music radio station that places an emphasis on songs that uplift and offer hope. The station plays Christmas favorites from artists like MercyMe, Casting Crowns, Chris Tomlin and Newsboys to holiday favorites from Burl Ives, Bing Crosby, Andy Williams, Dean Martin and more.
The Christmas STAR will continue with commercial-free music the afternoon of Christmas Eve through Christmas Day so listeners can enjoy their favorite carols as they celebrate.
Local listeners can listen to Star 99.1 in three ways: on the radio at 99.1 FM, HD radio 99.1 HD-1, Star 99.1’s mobile app, and streaming online at Star991.com.
This year marks the station’s first year partnering with Angel Tree, a charity run by the Salvation Army, providing hope to disadvantaged children during the Christmas season. Throughout the Christmas season, Star 99.1 will collect toys, books and other items requested by the children that will later be distributed by the Salvation Army.
WAWZ, a ministry of Pillar of Fire, has been serving families for more 80 years.
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Following are just some of the holiday-related activities taking place in the Central Jersey area. This massively long list is ordered by date, and will continue to be updated throughout the next several weeks. Look for more events — holiday-related and otherwise — on www.MyCentralJersey.com. You can access our Events Calendar at http://search.mycentraljersey.com/localevents/100.To add an event to the calendar, click on "Add Your Own Event" on the left side of the page.
Happy Holidays!
Now
Middlesex County’s Roosevelt Park Family Ice Skating Rink, Level Playing Fields Complex inside the county’s Roosevelt Park, Edison, is now open for its 13th season. Accredited group and private lessons are available. The rink is available for birthday parties and private events. Call 732-494-3785 for information and reservations. They also offer skate rentals with sizes ranging from toddler 8 to adult size 15, skate sharpening and locker rentals. Hours of operation are: 5 to 9 p.m. Wednesdays through Fridays. On Saturdays and holidays, 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. (session 1), 2 to 5 p.m. (session 2), 6 to 9 p.m. (session 3). On Sundays, noon to 3 p.m. (session 1) and 4 to 7 p.m. (session 2).Per-session admission is $6; $5 for senior citizens and children 17 and younger. Discounts are available for multisession passes and groups. Skate rental is available for $5 a session and helmets are for sale. Skate Zone Café food concession offers a variety of hot and cold drinks and snacks. For more information or to book an event, call 732-494-3785 or visit www.co.middlesex.nj.us.
Through Dec. 16
North Brunswick Holiday Decorating Contest: Through Dec. 16. Decorate your home to be the best and brightest in North Brunswick. Free; open to residents of North Brunswick.To nominate a house, send a picture of the holiday house to events@northbrunswicknj.gov. Be sure to include the address of the decorated house. The holiday contest judging will take place on Dec. 16. Holiday lights must be on from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Held by The North Brunswick Township Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Services. 732-247-0922, ext. 475.
Through Dec. 24
Simon Santa Photo Experience: Through Dec. 24, Menlo Park Mall. Route 1 South and Parsonage Road, Edison. Children can visit and be photographed with Santa. Avoid the line with Santa by appointment. Reserve online at http://simon.noerrsanta.com. Throughout the holiday season, shoppers can participate in and enjoy special programs, including Toys for Tots, Angel Giving Tree, Spread Love Photo Booth, Santa Pet Photos, choirs, children’s entertainment and more. Guests to every Noerr set will have another opportunity to share Santa’s heart by making a donation via The Noerr Programs to Save the Children. Visit www.simon.com/mall/menlo-park-mall for the latest mall events and retailer updates.
Through Jan. 3
.Holiday in the Park: Running weekends and select days now through Jan. 3, Six Flags, Jackson. More than a million glittering lights, holiday entertainment, seasonal treats, Santa’s village and many popular rides will magically transform the summer thrill destination into a winter wonderland, and is included with all season passes and active memberships. Attractions include: Holiday Magic: A Celebration of the Season light show on a 52-foot-tall tree in the heart of the park nightly every 30 minutes with classic holiday music; Jack Frost’s Magical Christmas: and Gingerbread Junction. Holiday in the Park also features nearly 30 rides such as SkyScreamer, Carousel, Big Wheel and Tea Cups. Children can enjoy 11 pint-sized thrills in Whimsical Wonderland. All rides and entertainment are weather permitting. More information about Holiday in the Park is available at www.sixflags.com/greatadventure.
Through Dec. 6
The Red Mill Museum Village Annual Festival of Trees fundraiser: Through Dec. 6, Red Mill Museum Village, 56 Main St., Clinton. Consists of a silent auction of donated and decorated trees, wreaths and centerpieces. This year’s Festival of Trees has been supported by Provident Bank and Om Clinton. The Festival of Trees will be open during regular museum hours. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 2 and 3. Hours will again be expanded from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Dec. 4 and Dec. 5. The Festival of Trees will conclude from noon to 5 p.m. Dec. 6, with silent auction bidding ending at 4:30 p.m. Call 908-735-4101.
Through Dec. 27
The 25th Annual Holiday Model Train Exhibit: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, 2 to 4 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, through Dec 27, closed Dec. 25, Barron Arts Center, 582 Rahway Ave., Woodbridge. Train show reception and tree lighting ceremony 5 to 7 p.m. Dec 4. Exhibition of model trains curated by Colonia resident Michael Gelesky. Exhibit is available to schools and groups. Call 732-634-0413 to make a reservation.
Through Dec. 7
Snowman Contest: Through Jan. 6, Municipal Complex, 710 Hermann Road, North Brunswick. Hosted by the North Brunswick Township Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Services. Create a snowman to be displayed at the Municipal Building. through Jan. 6.Deadline is Dec. 7, when winners will be chosen at the Township’s Winter Wonderland 2015. All entries should be weather resistant, at least 4 feet tall and visible from Hermann Road. 732-247-0922, ext. 475.
Dec. 1 and beyond
Brunswick Square Extended Hours: The mall at 755 Route 18 in East Brunswick will have extended hours throughout the holiday season.
Brunswick Square will present the following holiday happenings:
- The Santa Photo Experience, through Dec. 24,
- Coastal Evergreen Tree Sale, through Dec. 24,
- Holiday Craft Fair, through Dec. 24.
- Chanukah Celebration: Special menorah display in the JCPenney Court.
- Shoppers can take a break from their holiday shopping to enjoy the following performances: Crossroads Flute Performance, 11 a.m. Dec. 5; Holiday Percussion, 2 p.m. Dec. 5; MJX Kids, 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Dec. 6; and Bodies in Motion Dance Centre, 4 p.m. Dec. 13.
- Brunswick Square will offer gift wrap services provided by the East Brunswick Chapter of Hadassah in the Macy’s Court from Dec. 6 through Dec. 24.
- Brunswick Square is hosting the Salvation Army "Angel Tree" and a Toys for Tots collection in the JCPenney Court. Shoppers are encouraged to stop by and support local families in need. Guests to every Noerr set also will have another opportunity to share Santa’s heart by making a donation via
For a complete list of holiday hours, special events and retailers, visit www.shopbrunswicksquare.com or call 732-238-3600.
Dec. 2
Colonial and Victorian Customs: 2 p.m. Dec. 2, Middlesex Public Library, Community Room, 1300 Mountain Ave., Middlesex Borough. Decorations of holly and mistletoe, gingerbread and caroling are just a few of the Christmas customs that have been handed down from earlier times. Learn about Colonial and Victorian Christmas celebrations from Judith Krall-Russo and discover what foods were prepared and enjoyed as part of the holiday festivities. Admission is free; presented by Friends of the Middlesex Public Library. Visit www.middlesexfol.org, or facebook.com/middlesexfol or call 732-356-6602.
Holiday Luncheon Gala: 11:45 a.m. Dec. 2, Hunterdon County Senior Center Café, 4 Gauntt Place, Flemington. Pot roast lunch and performance by the senior chorus. Hunterdon County residents 60 and older are welcome. Hosted by Meals on Wheels in Hunterdon. A $5.25 donation is suggested. For reservations call 908-284-0735.
The Polar Express Storytime: 7 p.m. Dec. 4, Barnes & Noble Menlo Park Mall, 55 Parsonage Road, Edison. In celebration of the 30th anniversary of the classic The Polar Express. Pajama Storytime. There will be activities and crafts. Call 732-548-4179.
Dec. 3
Showing of Local Prints and Christmas Cards: 6 to 8:30 p.m. Dec. 3, Union County Arts Center, lobby, Irving Street, Rahway. Words by Lloyd Garrison. Also, Al Shipley will attend for book signing and sale. Christmas music.
Dec. 3-6
13th annual Colonial Christmas: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 3 through Dec. 6, historic Jacobus Vanderveer House & Museum, 3055 River Road, Bedminster. Sponsored by Bevan, Mosca, Giuditta & Zarillo, P.C.; Glenmede; and Meeker Sharkey & Hurley. The Friends of the Jacobus Vanderveer House invite visitors of all ages to experience Christmas past and present. The fundraiser features: tours of the museum, which will be decorated for the holidays by Accents by Design, Bedminster Florist and Classic Home & Garden; holiday shopping with boutique merchants and artisans; Colonial musicians and re-enactors; caroling; military demonstrations; Clydesdale wagon rides on opening day; Santa visits (1 to 3 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays); holiday arrangement and gingerbread house workshops; and a special exhibition of very rare artifacts discovered at the Pluckemin Artillery Cantonment archaeology dig.
Admission at the door is $10; free for ages 12 and younger. For a complee scheduled, tickets and information about Colonial Christmas, workshops and the Dec. 4 cocktail reception, call 908-396-6053 or visit www.jvanderveerhouse.org. Proceeds from Colonial Christmas benefit exhibit development, historical interpretations and educational programs at the Jacobus Vanderveer House.
Dec. 3, 6, 10 and 13
The Hunterdon County Historical Society’s 1845 Doric House Museum: 114 Main St., Flemington. 1 to 4 p.m. Dec. 3, 6, 10 and 13; will be open to the public. Two local garden clubs bring the season to life each year at the Hunterdon County Historical Society’s library and Doric House Museum. The Community Garden Club of Hunterdon County and the Garden Club of Hunterdon Hills will transform the home and library with natural, hand-made decorations. Visitors may also view the Stangl Gallery, the second- and third-floor period rooms and gallery of the Doric House and the Society’s library. Visit www.hunterdonhistory.org, www.downtownflemington.com.
Dec. 4
Annual Holiday Lights Celebration!: 6 p.m. Dec. 4, City Hall, Plainfield. The City of Plainfield invites you to join in and attend its annual "Holiday Lights Celebration." Caroling, hot chocolate and giveaways. Snow Globe pictures will be available from 4 to 8 p.m., one complimentary photo per family while the supplies last. Santa arrives at 6:45 p.m. Contact the Division of Parks and Recreation at Recreation@Plainfieldnj.gov or 908-753-3097.
RVCC Chorale Annual Holiday Concert: 8 p.m. Dec. 4, Raritan Valley Community College, Welpe Theatre, 118 Lamington Road, North Branch section of Branchburg. The chorale is composed of current and former RVCC students, as well as members of the community, conducted by John Sichel, a full-time faculty member in the college’s Visual and Performing Arts Department; accompanied by Tim Brown. The program will feature “A Ceremony of Carols” by Benjamin Britten. The work features Medieval and early Renaissance lyrics set to Britten's modern music. Guest artist Joanne Hansen, a harpist, will accompany the chorale in this work. The concert also will include classic carols from around the world and a traditional holiday sing-along. The chorale features sopranos Melissa Donlay, Madeleine Evarts, Mia Mazzariello, Esther Miller and Amy Wechsler; altos Deborah Allen, Zylema Cruz, Catherine Dayton, Ruth Dilley, Jennifer Kapoian and Jane Sausanavage; tenors Dante Colon, Gustavo Sanchez and Christopher Zanardi; and basses Frank Becker and Timothy Blaine. General admission is $12, $8 for students and seniors. For tickets call 908-725-3420. Call 908-218-8876 or visit www.raritanval.edu.
Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony: 6 p.m. Dec. 4, the Old Franklin School, 491 Middlesex Ave., Metuchen. Co-hosted by the Metuchen Area Chamber of Commerce, Borough Improvement League and Metuchen Fire Department. The tree will be lit at 7 p.m. Winter wonderland display, hot chocolate and cookies, and a visit with Santa Claus. 732-548-2964; email metuchenchamber@optimum.net.
Rockin' Around the Holidays: a Holiday Concert: 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 4, Sayreville Public Library, 1050 Washington Road, Parlin section of Sayreville. Holiday concert by musical duo Nina Et cetera. The concert will feature classic holiday tunes in 21st century fashion, including songs by Johnny Cash, Elvis, Ray Charles and more. For information call 732-727-0212 or visit www.sayrevillelibrary.org.
Piscataway Township Tree Lighting: The annual Township Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony is scheduled for Friday, Dec. 4, on the front lawn of the Piscataway Municipal Building, 455 Hoes Lane, beginning at 7 p.m.The program will be topped off with the arrival of Santa Claus and highlighted when Mayor Brian C. Wahler, with the help of the children present, switch on the holiday tree lights. The program will be conducted, rain or shine.
Dec. 4 and 5
"It's A Wonderful Life" Christmas Wine Tasting and Radio Play: 7:30 p.m. Dec. 4 and 5, Grape Expectations, 25 E. Kearney St., Bridgewater. The Igloo Collective is partnering with Grape Expectations bring its second annual Christmas Wine Tasting and Radio Play. Be transported back to Bedford Falls on Christmas Eve 1945 for an evening filled with award-winning wine, hors d'oeuvres, dinner, desserts, prizes, live piano music and a performance of a holiday classic. $50 adult ticket with wine, $40 adult ticket without wine, $20 ages 10 and younger. Call 732-764-9463 or visit www.theigloocollective.com.
Dec. 4, 5 and 6
Home for the Holidays: Holiday at The Abraham Staats House: The Abraham Staats House, 17 Von Steuben Lane, South Bound Brook. Candlelight Tours, Dec. 4, led by a guide in authentic 18th century clothing, visit each room of the house, decorated for the season. Learn about the house, Staats family and early history of Christmas. Tours start promptly, every half hour from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Admission is $10 per person with advance reservation (recommended) and $15 for walk-in. To reserve call 732-469-3198 or email info@staatshouse.org (include name, address, contact info and number in your party). You may pay at the door, or in advance by credit card or Paypal at www.staatshouse.org (click the “Buy Now” button on Candelight tour Event Page). Open House, 1 to 4 p.m. Dec. 5 and 6, admission free, donations accepted, view the decorated rooms of the house, decorated by local organizations including Boy Scout Troop 42 and Cub Scout Pack 42, the Reformed Church of Bound Brook, South Bound Brook Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary, students of Robert Morris School, the Women’s Guild of South Bound Brook and the Friends of Abraham Staats House. Holiday music of the 18th century played throughout the weekend on the mountain and hammered dulcimers, bowed psaltery, mandolin and fiddle, by Tom Harabin. On Dec. 5, musical performances by the Franklin Township High School madrigal singers, directed by Tim Walton, 2 p.m.; swinging holiday sounds of the Somerville High School jazz ensemble under the direction of Matt Krempasky, 3 p.m. Check www.staatshouse.org or call 732-469-3198.
31st anniversary of "A Drive Through The Christmas Story": Dec. 4, 5 and 6. 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Fridays; 5 to 9:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, through Dec. 6, Sayre Woods Bible Church, 2290 Route 9 South, Old Bridge. Annual outdoor display of ten life-size Bible scenes. This display features live characters and animals, holiday music and related Scripture verses, seen and heard within the convenience of your own car. Free. Now also available in Spanish. Call Sayre Woods Bible Church at 732-679-5989, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, or 732-679-4709.
Dec. 4 to 27
38th Annual Festival of Trees: Dec. 4 through Dec. 27, The Environmental Education Center, 190 Lord Stirling Road, Basking Ridge section of Bernards. Open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily except Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Presented by The Somerset County Park Commission. For information contact the Environmental Education Center at 908-766-2489 or NJ Relay at 711 for individuals with a hearing or speech impairment. Visit www.somersetcountyparks.org.
Dec. 4, 6 and 12
"Peace, Hope and Joy!" by The Whitehouse Wind Symphony: 7:30 p.m. Dec. 4, Whitehouse United Methodist Church, Old Route 28 in the Whitehouse Station section of Readington; 3 p.m. Dec. 6, the historic Hunterdon County Courthouse, Main Street, Flemington; and 3 p.m. Dec. 12, Liberty Church, West Chestnut Street, Union. Directed by James P. Sheeley Jr. and includes band arrangements of classic Christmas carols and favorite holiday songs. Young children are welcome to bring sleigh bells to the concert and, as is tradition with the Whitehouse Wind Symphony, join in the performance of Leroy Anderson's "Sleigh Ride.” The concert in Flemington is presented by the Mediatech Foundation and Flemington Business Improvement District, and serves as a prelude to Flemington’s annual holiday parade. All of these concerts are free admission. Free-will offerings will be accepted at each concert to benefit the band and the presenting church/foundations. In the event of inclement weather, the announcement to cancel any of these concerts will be posted at www.whitehousewindsymphony.org, and www.facebook.com/WhitehouseWind. Email WhitehouseWindSymphony@gmail.com.
Dec. 5
Annual Christmas Craft Bazaar: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 5, Flemington United Methodist Church, 116 Main St., Flemington. Shop for handcrafted items from more than 20 crafters and choose from a large variety of homemade baked goods. Lunch of homemade soups from church chefs and wraps from The Grill Shack. Re-Gifting Boutique is back with bargains galore. Locally grown poinsettias, in a variety of sizes and colors, will be sold. A limited number will be available for direct sale at the bazaar. For prices, go to www.flemingtonumc.org or email Lynn Becker at snowbecker@embarqmail.com.
"Greens and Goodies” Sale: 9 a.m. to noon Dec. 5, Griggstown School House, 1065 Canal Road (behind Griggstown Reformed Church). Wreaths and greens, baked goods and preserves, local history DVDs and books will be for sale. There will be mulled cider. Sponsored by the Griggstown Historical Society and the Millstone Valley Preservation Coalition,
Annual Breakfast with Santa fundraiser: 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. Dec. 5, Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar locations in New Jersey. The fundraiser will support the efforts of the U.S. Marines Corps Toys for Tots program, currently in its 67th year, which distributes new toys to underprivileged children to brighten the holidays, unify local communities and deliver a message of hope. Guests can enjoy breakfast compliments of Applebee’s along with goodies, raffle tickets for door prizes and the opportunity to take a photo with Santa Claus. Tickets to Breakfast with Santa, which can be purchased by calling or visiting a local Applebee’s, are $10 each; advanced reservations required. Children younger than 2 are admitted free. Applebee’s will raise additional funds by selling paper “gift packages” for $1 each, which will be displayed in the restaurants. One hundred percent of the proceeds from the Breakfast with Santa events and “gift package” purchases will be donated directly to the U.S. Marine Corps Toys for Tots program to be distributed to local families. Among the Applebee's locations where Breakfast with Santa will be offered are: Bridgewater, Clark, Edison, Flemington, Hillsborough, Linden, Milltown, Piscataway, Union and Woodbridge. For more information on Toys for Tots, visit www.toysfortots.org.
Christmas Bazaar: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 5, Our Lady of Lourdes (OLOL), school building, 44 Cleveland Avenue, Milltown. Holiday shopping, food and family activities. Highlights will include an old-fashioned bake sale, “New to You Christmas” booth, country Christmas booth, ornament booth, book booth featuring lots of cookbooks, Christmas books and more. Other booths include vintage jewelry, stocking stuffers, “nearly new” toys and games for children. Basket raffles including a gift card Christmas tree raffle and the “Magic Christmas Tree.” Additional booths and vendors will offer crafts, jewelry, designer bags, candy, toys, specialty foods, grave covers and wreaths. A la carte breakfast and lunch items will be available throughout the day. The Knights of Columbus’ annual Breakfast with Santa will also take place Dec. 5, with seatings at 9 and 10:30 a.m. Registration and payment can be arranged by contacting 732-828-0011.
Acoustic Christmas Special with Jeff Penque & Karen Fairweather: Dec. 5, The Community House, 2091 Black River Road, Pottersville section of Bedminster, Presented by Pottersville’s Cafe. With acoustic duo singer/songwriter Jeff Penque and songstress, Karen Fairweather. They blend classic folk/rock from the 60s through today — with original tunes. Songs include "Silent Night," "Deck the Halls," "Silver Bells" and more. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. Free soft drinks, light appetizers, coffee and dessert will be available. No cover charge, but donations accepted. You can check out the acoustic cafe on the church's website at http://pottersville.rcachurches.org/, call 908-439-3913 or email pottersville.church@aol.com. For more information on Penque and Fairweather, visit www.jeffkaren.com.
Annual Bazaar: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 5, The Reformed Church of Linden, 600 North Wood Ave., Linden. Homemade baked goods, plants, gift baskets, wreaths, handmade crafts and “nearly new” boutique items. There will also be direct sales vendors at the bazaar. Santa Claus will be visiting and a photographer will be available to take pictures with Santa. Luncheon will be served from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The menu will include roast beef and turkey sandwiches, hamburgers, cheeseburgers, veggie burgers, hot dogs with all the fixings and homemade meatballs sandwiches. The desert menu will feature all homemade pies, cheesecakes and other specialty desserts. For information call 908-486-3714.
Santa Claus Coming to Cranford: 8:30 a.m. to noon Dec. 5, Trinity Episcopal Church, Sherlock Hall, 119 Forest Ave., Cranford. Join Santa for a pancake breakfast and have your picture taken with him. Fun for the whole family; gift basket raffle, 50/50 tickets, the Cranford High School madrigal singers, wreaths and greens sale, a crafts table, face painting, children’s book sale and jewelry sale. Breakfast is $6 per person; free for children younger than 3. Photos with Santa are $7. Call 908-276-4047 or visit www.trinitycranford.org/.
Breakfast with Santa and His Furry and Feathered Friends: Dec. 5, Middlesex County 4-H Center, 645 Cranbury Road, East Brunswick. Parents and children are invited to enjoy a pancake breakfast, meet Santa and meet Santa’s furry and feathered friends at the petting zoo. There are two seatings for breakfast and activities at 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. Admission prices are $8; $6 for ages 9 and younger, and include breakfast, one picture per family with Santa, petting zoo and more. Reservation required. All proceeds will benefit the 4-H program. To register, call the 4-H office at 732-398-5261.
Westfield’s “Home for the Holidays” House Tour: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 5. Sponsored by the Westfield Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Offices, the event will feature four homes dressed in holiday style, musical entertainment, holiday treats, gift envelopes and historic information about the featured properties. Serving as tour chairperson is Coldwell Banker’s Sherrie Natko, and Coldwell Banker agents will serve as docents, sharing each home’s historic and unique qualities with tour goers. Tickets are available at the Coldwell Banker Westfield West and East offices or by calling 908-264-5324. Benefiting the Continuo Arts Foundation, proceeds will go to support the foundation’s scholarship fund, young artist debut series, community service projects and performances. Home tour ticket holders will also enjoy reserved seating at the annual “Christmas Time in the City” concert at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 12, presented by the Continuo Arts Foundation in collaboration with the Presbyterian Church of Westfield. Tickets are $30 in advance and $35 if purchased at the door. Call 908-264-5324 or visit www.continuoarts.com.
Santa Claus to visit the Therapeutic Recreation Activity Center: 10 a.m. to noon and 1 to 3 p.m. Dec. 5, Park Commission Headquarters, 355 Milltown Road, Bridgewater. The Therapeutic Recreation (TR) staff has arranged a peaceful and sensory friendly environment that is conducive to having Santa visit with children with Autism and other developmental disabilities. The TR Activity Center will be devoid of crowds, music and the chaos of the holiday season. If a child is not ready to visit with Santa when it is his or her turn, an opportunity will be provided when he or she is ready. Photos may be individual or the entire family providing one member has autism or a developmental disability. Each family will receive a 4" x 6" photo with Santa. The TR department will keep all photos on file and email upon request. Fee for photos with Santa is $10 per family residing in Somerset County and $20 per family if residing outside of the county. Registration is required and may be made by calling the TR Department at 908-526-5650 or Relay Service 711 for speech and/or hearing impaired. Registration deadline has been extended to Dec. 1. Held by The Somerset County Park Commission, with support from the Somerset County Park Foundation. Visit www.somersetcountyparks.org.
Just Between Friends Childrens' Holiday Toy Sale: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 5, Our Lady of Fatima Church, 499 New Market Road, Piscataway. Items include baby gear, books, electronics, games, movies, puzzles and toys. From 9 a.m. to noon: $5 Admission; 1 to 5 p.m.: Free Admission and tags without a star are half price. Visit www.jbfsale.com or call 732-925-5985.
Christmas in 1915: 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. Dec. 5, Somerville Public Library, 35 W. End Ave., Somerville. Explore the history, traditions and popular culture of 1915 set against the backdrop of World War I. Detailed insight on recipes, music and ephemera will be presented. In addition, there will be an audience interaction portion in the program. Attendees will gain a jump start in making their season merry by recreating memories from yesteryear for family and friends. Refreshments will be served. Call 908-725-1336 or visit www.SCLSNJ.org.
Breakfast with Jesus: 9 a.m. to noon Dec. 5, Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, 28 S. 4th St., Fords section of Woodbridge. Breakfast, crafts for children and music. Live outdoor interactive Nativity from 9 to 11 a.m. Concert by "Glorious," ensemble with audience, Christmas carol sing-a-longs from 10 to 11 a.m. Free admission. Visit www.OurRedeemer-Fords.com or call 732-738-7470.
Community "Blue" Christmas Service of Music and Lights: 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5, at First United Methodist Church of Scotch Plains 1171 Terrill Road. Have you ever felt the need to take a step back from all of the Christmas Cheer and remember those who aren’t here to celebrate with us anymore? Or are there reasons that your celebrations are more subdued this year? Whatever your own reason may be, if you think that a peaceful time of reflection on the holiness of the season without the Jolly, but with the peace of Jesus, sounds uplifting then come and join this service for a time of reflection and song.
Perth Amboy's annual Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony: The city's annual Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony begins at 4 p.m. Saturday Dec. 5, starting at Wilson and and Smith streets (participant line-up begins at 3 p.m.). The tree-lighting ceremony is at 4:30 p.m. The event includes photos with Santa, refreshments and gift bags for children. For details, call 732-826-1690, ext. 4321.
In addition, Selfies with Santa, Frosty, Rudolph and friends will be available on the following dates/times in Perth Amboy: 2 to 4 p.m. Dec. 10 at Hall Avenue between Johnstone and State streets; 2 to 4 p.m. Dec. 11 on Amboy Avenue between Hall and New Brunswick avenues; 12 to 2 p.m. Dec. 12 on Smith Street between the train station and State Street; 2 to 4 p.m. Dec. 18 on State Street between Fayette and Williams streets; and 12 to 2 p.m. Dec. 19 on Smith Street, between Silzer Street and the train station. For details, call 732-442-6421.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas Storytime: 11 a.m. Dec. 5, Barnes & Noble Menlo Park Mall, 55 Parsonage Road, Edison. Coloring and activities as participants celebrate all things Grinch with a special event featuring “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” Call 732-548-4179.
Dec. 5, 19
Breakfast with Santa: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec. 5 and Dec. 19, iPlay America, 110 Schanck Road, Freehold. Santa Claus is packing up his sleigh and jingling all the way to the breakfast buffet. The menu features an assortment of Santa’s favorite breakfast breads and pastries, an omelet station, mixed greens, granola and yogurt, fresh fruit, pancakes, scrambled eggs, buttermilk waffles and applewood smoked bacon along with soft drinks, juices, coffee and tea. Cost is $24.95; $14.95 ages 12 and younger. Each child's ticket also comes with a $5 iPA Game Card, candy cane and coloring book. Ages 2 and younger are free. Call 732-577-8200.
Dec. 5-7
Roxey Ballet, the regional professional dance company of the Mill Ballet School, presents Tchaikovsky's The Nutcacker. Performances are at at 1 p.m. Dec. 5 and 6 and 10 a.m. Dec. 7. at the Kendall Theater on the campus of The College of New Jersey accessible via Route 95 in central New Jersey. The Nutcracker opened Saturday, Nov. 30 and runs through Monday, Dec. 7. Tickets range from $15 to $52.50; discounted group rates are available for groups of twenty or more. For more information or to purchase tickets online, visit www.roxeyballet.org or call 609-397-7616.
Dec. 6
Annual Holiday House Tour: Noon to 5 p.m. Dec. 6, in Metuchen. Tour five decorated homes, enjoy complimentary refreshments and visit the artisan's bazaar and raffle at the Old Franklin Schoolhouse, 491 Middlesex Ave., Metuchen. Tickets $20 in advance, $25 at the door; ages 12 and younger free. No strollers or pets. Self guided tour. Advance tickets available at Brass Lantern, Boyt Drugs, Gardenias Floral and Marafiki Fair Trade; or online at www.boroughimprovementleague.org or call 862-368-2202. Held by The Metuchen Borough Improvement League.
Christmas Cantata: 3 p.m. Dec. 6, Pottersville Reformed Church, Church Sanctuary, 2090 Black River Road, Pottersville. The church choir, joined by others from the local community, will perform the Christmas Cantata, “A Thrill of Hope” by Joel Raney. Refreshments will be served afterwards in the community house across the street. Child care is available in the community house during the performance. Call 908-439-2628.
Dutch Sint Nikolaas Day: 1 to 4 p.m. Dec. 6, 1741 Bouman-Stickney Farmstead, 114 Dreahook Road, in the Stanton section of Readington Township. Historic cook, Connie Unangst, will demonstrate authentic 18th century Dutch cooking using the farmstead’s original open hearth. Upstairs, visitors can make a pomander ornament or Dutch craft to take home and also enjoy refreshments. Admission is free; donations accepted. Hosted by the Readington Museums. If using a GPS, use Lebanon, N.J. 08833. In case of inclement weather, call the museums to find out the status of the program. Visit http://www.readingtontwp.org/ReadingtonMuseums/index.html or call Program Director Margaret Smith at 908-236-2327.
The Friends of the Library Holiday Concert: 2 p.m. Dec. 6, Highland Park Public Library, 31 North Fifth Ave, Highland Park. The performance will be given by a string trio from the Rutgers Concert Bureau. A community reception will follow. Call 732-572-2750 or visit www.hpplnj.org.
Hunterdon Holiday Parade: 5 p.m. Dec. 6, Main Street, Flemington. Archie Fagan of ShopRite will be this year’s Grand Marshal, who will be riding in Flemington Fire Department’s antique 1928 La France engine known as “Old Betsy.” The Flemington Fire Department is also holding a raffle. Raffle tickets are $10 per chance, or $100 for the book of 10. The drawing for the raffle will be at the parade and done by Santa as he arrives at the reviewing stand in the Fire Company’s Tower Ladder. Tickets can be purchased by any member of the fire company and will also be available the evening of the parade. Parade musical performances include David Cedeno and his orchestra, The Patriot Brass Ensemble and The St. Ann’s of Hampton Pipes and Drums. In addition, the Hunterdon Central High School marching band will be present. Float registration is $25 for nonprofit organizations and $100 for businesses. All groups, with the exception of bands, must be on a float. To participate in the parade, your float must have a holiday theme and be approved by the Hunterdon Chamber of Commerce. To register, call 908-782-7115 or visit www.hunterdon-chamber.org.
Traditional Sinterklaas Celebration: 1 to 4 p.m. Dec. 6, Hageman Farm, 209 S. Middlebush Road, Franklin. Dutch dancers, holiday crafts and Dutch baked goods and a visit by Sinterklaas himself. Donations accepted. The Franklin High School madrigal singers will perform at 2:30 p.m. Visit www.themeadowsfoundation.org.
Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony: 6 to 8 p.m. Dec. 6, Staats House, 17 Von Steuben Lane, South Bound Brook. Visit with Santa and friends and enjoy doughnuts and hot cocoa. Bring an ornament to decorate the tree. held by the South Bound Brook Recreation Committee.
Holiday Celebration Parade: 6 p.m. Dec. 6. Parade from McCutcheon Avenue — Borough Hall, Sayreville, with a tree and menorah lightning ceremony. Festive music, hot cocoa and pictures with Santa Claus at the recreation center at the conclusion of the parade. Held by the Sayreville Recreation Department.
32nd Annual Holiday Nature Craft Show: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 6, Trailside Nature and Science Center, 452 New Providence Road (at Coles Avenue), Mountainside. Usher in the holidays with the sights and sounds of the season. Staff from various Union County departments and community organizations will decorate trees in the Trailside Visitor Center. All the trees, ornaments and gift cards collected will be distributed to Union County families in need. Visitors are encouraged to stop by each holiday tree and vote on their favorite decorations theme for this year. More than 40 vendors will be selling nature-themed items. Light refreshments will be available for purchase throughout the day, sponsored by the Watchung Junior Hunt Club. Children will be able to visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus from noon to 4:30 p.m. Free children’s face painting. The day’s activities in Trailside’s auditorium will include illuminating seasonal lights of the Union County tree and menorah at 4:30 p.m. The price of admission is an item of dry or canned food or a new, unwrapped toy to be distributed through local charities. Presented by The Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders and the Department of Parks and Recreation. Call 908-789-3670 or visit www.ucnj.org/trailside.
St. Vincent de Paul School’s Breakfast With Santa: Seatings 9:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. Dec. 6, St. Vincent de Paul, gym, 249 Bebout Ave., Stirling section of Long Hill Township. With breakfast, picture with Santa, arts and crafts, secret Santa, ornament shop, Mrs. Claus reading room, bake shop and more. Gingerbread house contest with Visa Gift Card prize. Come judge your favorite gingerbread house at 11:30 a.m. Seating is $10; children younger than 2 admitted free. Reservations are preferred. RSVP with payment no later than Dec. 1. Mail to St. Vincent de Paul School, ATTN: Theresa BWS, 249 Bebout Ave. Stirling, N.J. 07980 or email theresaben@comcast.net. Visit www.stvdp.org or call 908-647-0421.
Breakfast with Santa: 8 to 11:30 a.m. Dec. 6, Sacred Heart Church Auditorium, South Main St/Filak Street, Manvile. Menu: Scrambled eggs, sausage, pancakes, French toast and potatoes. Tickets sold at door. $5; $2 ages 6 to 12; ages 5 and younger admitted free. Sponsored by the Christ the Redeemer Altar Rosary Society. 908-725-0072.
Dec. 7
Winter Wonderland 2015 and Annual Tree Lighting: 6:15 p.m. Dec. 7, Municipal Complex, 710 Hermann Road, North Brunswick. Activities include: A sing along with the North Brunswick Township High School Chorus, Project LEAL Steel Drums and Bucket Brigade, the official lighting of the tree, meet Santa and light refreshments. Bring your camera to take a picture with your child with Santa. Dress warmly.The festivities will move inside in the event of rain. Held by The North Brunswick Township Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Services Donations will be accepted to the North Brunswick Food Bank. These include pasta, sauce, cereal, canned vegetables and canned fruits. Outdated food cannot be accepted.
Dec. 8
“Tis The Season”: Dec. 8, Somerset County/Bridgewater Library, 1 Vogt Drive, Bridgewater. Sing-a-long meeting of the Bridgewater Woman’s Club, led by musician Al Gregg. Light refreshments will be served at 9:30 a.m., followed by a short business meeting. The club will be collecting unwrapped children’s games and toys to be distributed to local children from needy families. Area women who wish to attend or need more information may contact Gerrie Gora, membership chair, at 908-231-0350 or Gerrigora@gmail.com.
Holiday Networking Dinner: 6 to 8 p.m. Dec. 8, Lago Restaurant, Lounge & Banquet Hall, 230 Washington Place, North Brunswick. Cost is $10; sponsored by the Central Jersey Business Alliance (CJBA) and Lago Restaurant, Lounge & Banquet Hall. The CJBA is an alliance of Central Jersey businesses whose sole purpose is for the betterment of the retailers, service providers and health professionals who reside in Central Jersey. Reserve a seat by emailing wanttoattend@gmail.com. Non-members may attend two programs prior to joining the CJBA. Call 732-690-5496.
Annual Menorah Lighting: 6:30 p.m. Dec. 8, Municipal Complex, outside, 710 Hermann Road, North Brunswick. Dress warmly..
Toy drop-off: Youth are encouraged to drop off a new, unwrapped toy at J. McLaughlin, 10 Beechwood Road, Summit on Tuesday Dec. 8 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Anyone who brings a toy on that day will be entered in a raffle to win an autographed jersey from New York Giants Quarterback, Eli Manning. Refreshments will be served and there will be a ‘special guest’ from 5 to 7 p.m. The toys will be distributed during a party later in the season to members of the Boys & Girls Club in Plainfield. In addition, 15 percent of all purchases in store at J. McLaughlin on Dec. 8 will be donated to Boys & Girls Clubs of Union County. For information, visit www.bgcuc.org or call 908-687-2697.
Dec. 10
Perth Amboy's Celebration of Hanukkah: The city 's Hanukkah celebration begins at 6 p.m. Dec. 10 in the City Hall Council Chambers, 260 High St. All are welcome e as the Menorah candles are lit and the story of Hanukkah is told. Call 732-826-7121.
Dec. 11
“Hear the Jingle”: 7:30 p.m., Dec. 11, Griggstown Reformed Church Recreational Hall, Princeton. Presented by Jersey Harmony Chorus. Cost is $18 advance or $20 at the door, $10 for children 12 and under. For tickets call Carole at 732-236-6803, or email jerseyharmonytickets@gmail.com. Visit www.jerseyharmonychorus.org.
Concert, Peter Mayer, Stars & Promises 2015: Doors open at 6:30 p.m.; concert begins at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 11, United Reformed Church, 100 West Main St. Tickets are $30 per person in advance and $35 per person at the door. To purchase tickets call 800-965-9324 or visit www.itickets.com/events/3515589/Somerville_NJ/Stars_and_Promises_2015.html. Concert proceeds will benefit Friends of Somerset County Youth. Contact Dan Puntillo at 908-285-8217.
Barron Arts Center Holiday Concert: "The Brothers in Harmony" Barber Shop Chorus, 7:30 to 10 p.m. Dec. 11, Woodbridge Middle School, theater, 525 Barron Ave., Woodbridge. Men's barbershop chorus "Brothers in Harmony" will perform traditional standards and holiday favorites. Free admission. Call 732-634-0413 or visit http://twp.woodbridge.nj.us.
Christmas Concert — Orchestra St. Peter by the Sea: 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Dec. 11, St. Teresa of Avila, 306 Morris Ave., Summit. Christmas concert by Orchestra of St. Peter by the Sea under the baton of The Reverend Alphonse Stephenson. Benefits the Dominican Nuns of Summit Centennial Campaign. The program featuring a full 42-piece orchestra will will include traditional music, popular favorites and holiday classics, with soprano Victoria Cannizzo, tenor Benjamin Sloman and baritone Christopher Pinella as soloists. $50 general admission, $75 premier seating. Call 908-277-3700, 201-452-4996 or visit www.DominicanNunsChristmasConcert.eventbrite.com.
Dec. 11 and 12
The Sayreville War Memorial High School Choir will present it’s 7th Annual Madrigal Dinner: 7 p.m. Dec. 11, and 6:30 p.m. Dec. 12, Sayreville War Memorial High School cafeteria, 820 Washington Road, Sayreville. This year’s Medieval-style dinner show is entitled “The Harold News.” Renaissance music, theater and food. Tickets are $25; $20 for senior citizens and students. This includes the performance of “The Harold News” and dinner consisting of a salad, entrée, dessert, wassail, soda coffee or tea. Vegetarian meals are available upon request. Advanced tickets are required. Deadline is Dec. 9. Contact Claire Craft at 732-238-5580.
Dec. 11-20
Holiday Jubilee: The Story of an Inspirational Gospel Choir: Crossroads Theatre, 7 Livingston Ave., New Brunswick. Follow the story of the Crossroads’ 2015 Holiday Gospel Choir as they attempt to finally win first prize. Tickets start at $30; children younger than 12 are free (with the purchase of a regular priced adult ticket, one child per adult ticket admission). Show times: 7 p.m. Dec. 11; 3 p.m. Dec. 12; 8 p.m. Dec. 12; 3 p.m. Dec. 13; 7 p.m. Dec. 17 and 18; 3 and 8 p.m. Dec. 19; 3 p.m. Dec. 20.Tickets: https://www.ticketcentral.com/crossroadstheatrecompany/Online/default.asp?doWork::WScontent::loadArticle=Load&BOparam::WScontent::loadArticle::article_id=77DA84CE-3734-4F89-B5BF-38F0B188FCAC.
Dec. 11-27
“It's a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play:” Dec. 11 through 27, Bucks County Playhouse, 70 S. Main Street, New Hope, Pennsylvania. Bucks County Playhouse will offer discounted preview performances of “It's a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play” at 8 p.m. on Dec. 11 and 2 p.m. on Dec. 12. Tickets to preview performances are $30. Opening night is 7 p.m. Dec. 12. The Playhouse is also offering a special matinee performance discount for Christmas week performances. All tickets in the mid-orchestra (blue section) are $40 for 2 p.m. performances on Dec. 22 through Dec. 24. Santa Claus will be in the lobby before the show to greet those attending the performance. For full details and presentation schedule, and to purchase tickets, visit buckscountyplayhouse.org or call 215-862-2121.
Dec. 11-12
12th annual Living Nativity: 7 to 9 p.m. Dec. 11; 6 to 9 p.m. Dec. 12, Middlebush Reformed Church, intersection of South Middlebush and Amwell Roads, Somerset section of Franklin. Featuring the manger scene with costumed characters, live animals from nearby farms and Christmas caroling. Refreshments. Admission is free; donations accepted. Call 732 873 2776 or visit www.middlebushreformedchurch.com.
Dec. 12
Showdown at the Christmas Corral: 2 and 7 p.m. Dec. 12, Hunterdon Central High School, 84 Route 31, Flemington. The Hunterdon Harmonizers continue their tradition of originally scripted holiday comedies with incredible musical delights from the chorus, quartets, guests Jersey Harmony Express (men’s a cappella chorus from the Bridgewater area) and Hunterdon Central’s own Pit Orchestra, under the direction of Will Magalio. The story follows Bucky the Elf on a much deserved vacation at Santa’s brother’s dude ranch in Christmas, Arizona. Being a cowboy turns out to be a great adventure as Bucky looks to save the town, the woman he pines for, and the lone Christmas Tree in Arizona from the evil clutches of the outlaw, Double Darrell Dischord. The show will feature dozens of songs from holiday classics, to soaring westerns and a dash of comedic flair thrown in. All ages. Should there be inclement weather, the show will be held on Dec. 19 at the same venue. Visit njharmonizers.org.
Jersey Shore Performing Arts Center presents: Alborada Spanish Dance Theatre's "Three Kings Day — El Día de los Reyes": 7 p.m. Dec. 12, Jersey Shore Arts Center, 66 South Main St., Ocean Grove. General seating $20; $17 seniors; $14 students. To order tickets, call the box office at 732-502-0050 or visit http://jerseyshoreartscenter.org/upcoming-events. Information: www.AlboradaDance.org, email Alboradadance@optonline.net or call 732-598-3979.
Continuo Arts’ annual “Christmas Time in the City” Holiday Concert Extravaganza: 7:30 p.m. Dec. 12, Presbyterian Church of Westfield, 140 Mountain Ave. A production by the Continuo Arts Foundation, it features more than 175 singers from Union, Morris and Essex Counties, soloists, the Continuo Arts Chamber Orchestra, free photos with Santa and audience sing-a-longs and special guest artists. The individual and combined Continuo Arts Ensembles & Chamber Orchestra will present many perennial holiday favorites in addition to Te Deum by Mark Hayes and other selections. Admission is free. Doors will open at 7 p.m. with reserved seating available to “Home for the Holiday’s” Home Tour ticket holders from 7 to 7:15 p.m. Call 908-264-5324 or visit www.continuoarts.com.
Ugly Christmas Outfit Party: Dec. 12, American Legion Post 401, Post Hall, South Brunswick. The party will begin with dinner a buffet served from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., dancing until midnight. Door prizes and prizes for the ugliest Christmas outfit. Ages 21 and older. Tickets: $12.50 per person. Purchase tickets by Dec. 4. Tickets are available for purchase and pickup at the Post Hall. Call 732-329-9861.
A Colonial Christmas: 2 p.m. Dec. 12, North County Branch Library, 65 Halstead Street, Clinton. Anne and Ridley Enslow, dressed in period clothing, will perform festive music on violin and hammered dulcimer, along with stories and tales of good cheer, that celebrate a colonial Christmas and other midwinter holidays. With rare exceptions, all of their music is drawn from original manuscripts, sheet music and songsters, based on hours of research. Their latest recording, Brandy O!, consists of music found in the households of George Washington and Thomas Jefferson. For reservations, call 908-730-6135 or visit www.hclibrary.us.
A Living Nativity at Good Shepherd: 5 to 7:30 p.m. Dec. 12. Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, church lawn, 300 Union Ave., Somerville. This annual outdoor event will tell the traditional Christmas story with actors and live animals. A donkey, alpacas, sheep, goats and rabbits will be provided from Norz Hill Farm in Hillsborough. Audience is invited to pet the animals after each performance and come into the church for refreshments of homemade cookies and hot chocolate. Each performance lasts about 20 minutes. Call 908-685-1660 or visit www.gslutheranchurch.org.
Waiting is Not Easy! Storytime: 11 a.m. Dec. 12, Barnes & Noble Menlo Park Mall, 55 Parsonage Road, Edison. Gerald and Piggie and are best friends. In “Waiting is Not Easy!” Piggie has a surprise for Gerald, but he is going to have to wait for it. And wait some more. In the holiday season all children will connect with Gerald. Activities to follow. Call 732-548-4179.
Dec. 12, 13
.“Christmas Nativity Spectacular”: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Dec. 12, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 13, The Shrine of St. Joseph, auditorium, lower level of the Chapel building, 1050 Long Hill Road, Stirling section of Long Hill Township. Free-will donation. Rebecca Kirkman has offered her collection dating back to the 1930’s including nativity sets from Iceland, Turkey, Ireland, Mexico, Germany, Italy, Columbia, Bahamas, China, Domincan Republic, Russia, and African countries. This exhibit reflects the local cultures around the world, not those created for the mass market. In addition to the nativity exhibit, fresh Christmas greens, poinsettas and home baked goods will be available for you to purchase in the hallway. A nativity set will be raffled off in the Shrine Gift and Book Shop. 50/50 raffle, hospitality room with hot cocoa, beverages and fresh pie or cookies. A live Nativity will process on at 3 p.m. Dec. 12 across from the Shrine grounds, with Christmas carols being sung. On Dec. 12, The Hickory Tree Chorus will sing at 11 a.m; The Straight and Narrow Gospel Choir will perform at 1:30 p.m.; and the San Jose Choir will sing Spanish Carols at 3:30 p.m. On Dec. 13, The Ridge High School madrigal singers will perform from noon to 2 p.m. Other musicians will be sharing their talents and enriching all with Christmas spirit. All proceeds will be donated to the Shrine of St. Joseph. Call 908-647-0208 or visit www.stshrine.org.
Santa on a Harley: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 12 and 13, Williams Harley-Davidson, 1100 Route 22 West, Lebanon. Presented by Hunterdon County H.O.G. Chapter and Williams Harley-Davidson. $10 donation; benefits Children’s Specialized Hospital and Veteran’s Haven North. Call 908-238-0787 or visit williamshd.com.
Dec. 12, 13, 19, 20
A Christmas Peter Pan: 3 p.m. Dec. 12; noon Dec. 13; noon and 3 p.m. Dec. 19; noon Dec. 20, Franklin Villagers Barn Theatre, 475 Demott Lane, Somerset section of Franklin. Captain Hook is at it again. No longer satisfied with disrupting the peace in Neverland, he has decided to take a "stab" at ruining Christmas. Visit www.villagerstheatre.com/viewproductions/2015-a-christmas-peter-pan/.732-873-2710.
Dec. 13
Festival of Carols: 2 p.m. Dec. 13, Trinity Reformed Church, Sanctuary, 401 Greenbrook Road, North Plainfield. Refreshments following. Donations to the FISH Hospitality program will be taken.
Showing of 'How the Grinch Stole Christmas": 1 to 4 p.m. Dec. 13, Wyckoff-Garretson House, 215 S. Middlebush Road, Somerset section of Franklin. The house will be open for hearthside cooking demonstration; harp music by Richard Spendio; a showing of “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” and the grand opening of the renovated carriage house. Visit www.themeadowsfoundation.org..
Holiday Open House: 5 to 8 p.m. Dec. 13, the Forum Theatre front office, 314 Main St., Metuchen. Hosted by Dragonfly Multicultural Arts Center. The free celebration will introduce community members to the Metuchen-based nonprofit community theater company that was formed in 2014. All ages welcome. Free cookies and hot chocolate will be waiting as visitors join Dragonfly performers in holiday songs, watch improv performances and participate in theater games. Visit www.dragonflyartsnj.com, email DragonflyArtsNJ@gmail.com, check out Facebook.com/dragonflymulticulturalarts or call 908-930-3210.
Crescent Singers Present Yuletide by Candlelight: 5 to 7 p.m. Dec. 13, Crescent Avenue Presbyterian Church, 716 Watchung Ave., Plainfield. The Crescent Singers present their annual gift of holiday music of all ages to the community. This year's Crescent Concerts Yuletide is entitled "There is No Rose of Such Virtue." Free. Call 908-756-2468 or visit http://crescentconcerts.org.
Holiday Open House: 5 to 8 p.m. Dec. 13, Forum Theater, Blue Room Office Space, 314 Main St., Metuchen. Free theater open house: songs, performances, games, prizes, cookies and hot chocolate. All ages. Free. Call 732-548-5600 or visit http://DragonflyArtsNJ.com.
“A Christmas Carol”: 2 p.m. Dec. 13, The Theatre at Raritan Valley Community College, 118 Lamington Road, North Branch section of Branchburg. Nebraska Theatre Caravan’s production of the holiday classic. The production is part of the Theatre’s Major Artists Series. Tickets cost $40 and $50. To purchase tickets or for more information, call the box office at 908-725-3420 or order online at www.rvccArts.org. Subscribers’ packages are available for all Theatre series. Senior citizen, student and group discounts are also available for most performances. Visit www.raritanval.edu.
Breakfast With Santa: 9:30 to 11 a.m. Dec. 13, East Brunswick Elks Lodge, 21 Oakmont Ave., East Brunswick. Santa will arrive about 10:30 a.m. $10; free for ages 10 and younger. Donations of canned goods and non-perishable items such as hamburger helper, macaroni and cheese, tuna helper, etc. are appreciated for the Feed the Hungry Campaign. To reserve by Dec. 1 call Joan Scaduto at 732-567-6671 or email joanie927@hotmail.com.
Rockingham Annual Candlelight Tours: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 13, Rockingham, Laurel Avenue/Kingston-Rocky Hill Road (County Route 603) between Route 518 in Rocky Hill and Route 27 in Kingston. The tours show how Christmas was celebrated during six periods in Rockingham’s history. Visitors will begin in the early 18th century, when the Higgins family, which then owned the property, observed the holiday without decorations. Tours will end in the early 20th century, when the Washington Headquarters Association owned Rockingham, and Christmas was celebrated with a tree, food, presents, cookies and milk. Period music will be provided by John Burkhalter of Practitioners of Musick, and holiday goodies and warm drinks will be provided in the Children’s Museum. The Museum Store will also be open. Reservations will be required for admission and may be made by calling 609-683-7136. A donation of $8 is suggested. Tours will be offered at least every half-hour, with 3:30 being the last tour. The tours are made possible by the Live Historians, the Rockingham Association, the Stony Brook Garden Club and the NJ Division of Parks and Forestry. Call 609-683-7132 or visit www.rockingham.net.
Dec. 13, 19
Handel’s Messiah, performed by The Masterwork Chorus: Annual Messiah sing-along 2 p.m. Dec. 13, St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, Mountain Lakes. One hundred-voice ensemble, under the baton of new music director Christopher Shepard. Singers may borrow scores, but are encouraged to bring their own. Complimentary refreshments will follow. Free; free-will offering of $10 suggested. At 7:30 p.m. Dec. 19, Masterwork Chorus brings the same forces to the Ridge Performing Arts Center in Basking Ridge section of Bernards to perform their beloved Messiah for a home-state audience. Purchase tickets at www.masterwork.org.
Dec. 14
Friends of The Dunellen Library Holiday Party: 6:30 p.m. Dec. 14, Dunellen Free Public Library, 100 New Market Road, Dunellen. Join the Friends of the Dunellen Library for a festive evening of food, fun and friendship. Call 732-968-4585.
Dec. 17
Robin Spielberg Holiday Concert: The Theater at Raritan Valley Community College, Branchburg, will present a Robin Spielberg Holiday Concert on Thursday, Dec. 17, with performances at noon and 7 p.m. The concerts are part of the Theatre’s Club28 series. Spielberg's work brings traditional, original and popular music to life in piano solos and piano-based ensembles. An author and frequent lecturer on the topic of the medical benefits of music, Spielberg is also a artist-spokesperson for the American Music Therapy Association. In conjunction with her RVCC concert appearances, Spielberg will reach out to the local community by performing for residents of two local assisted living facilities, the Avalon at Bridgewater and Independence Manor in Flemington. Tickets cost $10 for the noon performance and $25 for the 7 p.m. show. All seating is general admission. The noon performance is set in on-stage theatre-style seating and is approximately one hour in length. The evening show, set in a relaxed, on-stage cabaret setting, includes refreshments and is approximately two hours long. Call the Box Office at 908-725-3420, or order online at www.rvccArts.org.
Dec. 19
15th Annual Pre-Kwanzaa Celebration: Dec. 19, Emerson School, 305 Emerson Ave., Plainfield Doors open at noon for shopping at the African Market; official ceremonies start at 1 p.m. Celebration of family, community and culture featuring African storytelling, a traditional candle ceremony, spoken word, and cultural food. Free; sponsored by The City of Plainfield. Contact the Division of Parks and Recreation at Recreation@Plainfieldnj.gov or 908-753-3097.
Christmas Concert: 5 p.m. Dec. 19, Zion Hill Baptist Church, 450 Highland Ave., Piscataway. Featuring Zion Hill Baptist Church and other local guest artists. Freewill offering. Call 732-463-7776.
"A Christmas Carol": 2 to 3 p.m. Dec. 19, Bound Brook Memorial Library, 402 E. High St., Bound Brook. Traveling Literary Theater presents a professional reading of Dickens' own edited version of "A Christmas Carol." Starring English stage actor James Dyne. Visit http://somerset.evanced.info/signup/EventDetails.aspx?EventId=32361&lib=0.
New Jersey Gay Men's Chorus, 8 to 10 p.m. Dec. 19, Trinity Episcopal Church Asbury Park, 503 Asbury Ave., Asbury Park. Musical holiday celebration featuring favorites such as "Carol of the Bells," "We Need a Little Christmas" and "Frosty the Snowman." $20 in advance; $15 for students and seniors; all tickets $25 at the door. Call 732-579-8449 or visit www.njgmc.org.
Cookie Walk, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec. 19, St, John The Baptist Orthodox, St. John:s Hall, 404 Division St., Perth Amboy. All gourmet items homemade and handmade. Christmas cookie sale.
How to Catch Santa Storytime: 11 a.m. Dec. 19, Barnes & Noble Menlo Park Mall, 55 Parsonage Road, Edison. From the creators of The New York Times bestsellers How to Babysit a Grandpa and How to Babysit a Grandma comes an equally charming and hilarious holiday offering! “How to Catch Santa” is a jolly read-aloud for the whole family to enjoy. Coloring and activities to follow. Call 732-548-4179.
Dec. 20
The Raritan Ringers: 4 p.m. Dec. 20, the United Reformed Church, 100 W. Main St., Somerville. The Raritan Ringers, a choir of advanced handbell ringers from communities in north central New Jersey, will present a concert of sacred and secular holiday music. The select group of 13 adult handbell ringers is led by F. Paul Dickey, director of music at the United Reformed Church. Guest harpist Merynda Adams, who has performed throughout the United States, Belgium, France, the Netherlands and Puerto Rico, will be featured with the choir. Tickets, available at the door, are $10. Children under 12 are admitted free. Call 908-725-4545.
Dec. 30
Seventh Annual Spook Handy Holiday Concert: 2 to 4 p.m. Dec. 30, Highland Park Public Library, 31 N Fifth Ave., Highland Park. Folk family friendly concert. Spook Handy blends blues, pop, Appalachian flavor and blue grass while telling the stories of people he has met along the way. Free. Call 732-572-2750 or visit www.hpplnj.org.
Dec. 31
Bill Turner & Blue Smoke New Year's Eve Party: 8 p.m. Dec. 31 to 1 a.m. Jan. 1. East Brunswick Elks Lodge 2370, 21B Oakmont Ave., East Brunswick. East Brunswick Elks presenting a New Year's Eve party, with a cocktail hour from 8 to 9 p.m. and a hot buffet. $70 per person, with full open bar. Reserve by Dec. 23. Make checks payable to East Brunswick Elks. Call 732-991-6217.
Staff Writer Brad Wadlow: 908-243-6604; bwadlow@mycentraljersey.com