Holiday happenings

 2 comment(s)  
 E-mail Story
 Print Story
  Share

 digg it!
 Facebook
 del.icio.us
Seed Newsvine
Fark It
Reddit

Text Size: 

Tools Sponsor

Santa’s about to be a very busy fellow. With any luck, his GPS (doesn’t every reindeer-drawn sleigh have a global positioning system?) will get him to . . .

. . . breakfast Saturday at Gateway,

. . . an early evening visit to Aurora Nov. 24,

. . . an appointment to flip the giant switch on SouthPointe’s holiday lights Nov. 25 (after an earlier stop along the Seward Square),

. . . a visit to the “Santa hut” in Geneva Dec. 1,

. . . a chilly ride along O Street Dec. 2,

. . . and brunch the next morning in Nebraska City.

And that’s still three weeks before Christmas!

Your schedule might be almost as crowded if you take in even a fraction of the events in the Journal Star’s annual Holiday Happenings calendar.

For example: In addition to Lincoln’s 22nd annual Star City Holiday Parade Dec. 2 (please make it warmer this year!), Wahoo has its own parade — the night before. It’s an after-dark affair and every entry carries some form of illumination. Most entries are vehicles; if it runs on wheels, there’s probably been one in Wahoo’s parade.

Aurora has a vintage car parade Nov. 24. You can also get a carriage ride in Seward, ride a pony during a Winter Weekend at Lincoln’s Children’s Zoo, or a really big pony — actually a Clydesdale — at Geneva.

For even more horsepower, check out Lincoln’s third annual Polar Bear ride — all motorcycles welcome.

For tamer adventures, there are:

n Home tours in Lincoln, Henderson, Syracuse, Crete/Wilber, Brownville, Seward/Staplehurst, Geneva and Cortland.

n Music from the String Beans to the UNL Symphony Orchestra to the Berkeys of Mannheim Steamroller.

n Stage productions from “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” to “Amahl and the Night Visitors.”

Feeling nostalgic? Look for Christmas on the Prairie, Country Christmas, Old-Fashioned Christmas, even Victorian Holidays Past.

Hungry? There’s a Scandinavian smorgasbord, a German feast, an Elizabethan Christmas feast, and a traditional Native meal at the Indian Center.

Not to mention a stack of pancake feeds, soup suppers by the score, and cookies by the dozens. And more dozens. And more dozens.

For the truly spiritual activity, you have many opportunities to reflect on the nativity. Saint Paul United Methodist Church will exhibit hundreds of nativity sets. Chester’s “Festival of the Nativities” promises nativities from 75 years ago to the present, from all over the world.

And if you really want to get upfront and personal with the nativity, there are several “living” nativities, promising the sights, sounds, even the smells of Christmas.

— Bill Eddy

Holiday Happenings 2006

Lincoln and Southeast Nebraska holiday activities are listed by week, Monday through Sunday.

Thanksgiving and Christmas church services will be listed separately on Saturday Values pages. The Christmas list will be published Dec. 23.

Services should be mailed to Bob Reeves, Lincoln Journal Star, P.O. Box 81689, Lincoln NE 68501, or e-mailed to breeves@journalstar.com.

Nov. 17-19

Nov. 3-Dec. 22 — “Wrappable: Art for Giving,” Lux Center for the Arts, 48th and Baldwin streets, Lincoln. Ceramics, jewelry, glass, fiber, printmaking, photography, wood and more from more than 75 local, regional and national artists. Items range from practical to purely decorative. Hundreds of art pieces to choose from. No admission charge. More information: (402) 466-8692; www.luxcenter.org

Nov. 9-Dec. 17 — Home for the Holidays, Nebraska City. Open houses, Tour of Lights, Santa visits, tree lightings, and progressive drawings, giving away $1,500 in Chamber Bucks Cash. More information: www.NebraskaCity.com; 800-514-9113.

Nov. 17 — Soup supper and fall bazaar, 4-7 p.m., St. James United Methodist Church, 2400 S. 11th St.

Nov. 18 — Breakfast with Santa, Westfield Gateway Food Court, 9 a.m. Free breakfast; appearances by The String Beans; face painters; balloon artists, and more. More information: 464-3196; www.westfield.com/gateway

Nov. 18 — Santa Cop Auction, 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. silent auction; 2:30 p.m. live auction, State Fair Park, Lancaster Building (southeast of Grandstand).

Nov. 18-19 — KFOR Fall Arts & Crafts show, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday, Nebraska State Fair Park, Ag Hall.

 

Nov. 20-26

Nov. 21-Dec. 31 — A Victorian Christmas at the Dodge House, Historic General Dodge House, 605 Third St., Council Bluffs, Iowa. Theme: Christmas Around the World. Thursdays-Saturdays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sundays, 1-5 p.m. Admission: adult, $7; over 62, $5; students 6-16, $3; under 6, free with adult. Family nights: Dec. 7, 14, 21, 6-8 p.m.; special price, $10 for two adults and dependent children. Night with Santa, Dec. 7, 6-8 p.m. A support group, The General’s Ladies, decorates this 14-room mansion and the adjacent Beresheim House for the holidays, including 23 Christmas trees. Refreshments served in carriage house on weekends and Thursday family nights. Event has been held for 40 years. More information: (712) 322-2406.

Nov. 23-Dec. 31 — Seward’s Country Christmas Light Display, Centennial Park, west side of Seward.  6-10 p.m. nightly; closed Mondays and Tuesdays. Carriage rides Fridays, Saturdays (goodwill donation). Entertainment on Fridays in December. Admission: $1 per person. More information: Seward Area Chamber of Commerce, (402) 643-4189; sewcham@seward.ne.com

Nov. 24 — Aurora … It’s a Wonderful Life, Aurora, 6-8 p.m. Family events around Courthouse Square include lighting of the square, visit from Santa and his reindeer, vintage car parade, hayrack and barrel train rides. More information: (402) 694-6911; www.auroranebraska.com.

Nov. 24, 25 — Garage and bake sale, Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Beatrice, 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday, 8 a.m.-noon Saturday. Free. Sponsored by church youth group. More information: (402) 228-3172.

Nov. 24, 25 — Arbor Day Farm Holiday Open House, Nebraska City, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Array of gifts. Free samples of jams, honey, and cider. More information: (402) 873-8717.

Nov. 24-Dec. 15 — One Warm Coat Collection to Benefit the Salvation Army, SouthPointe Pavilions Shopping Center, 27th Street and Pine Lake Road. New coats for children or clean, gently-used adult coats are welcome at Sartor Hamann Jewelers, Talbots, Old Navy, Scheels and Michael’s Crafts. More information: 421-2114; www.southpointeshopping.com

Nov. 24-26 — Holiday open house, Homestead National Monument bookstore, four miles west of Beatrice, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, Sunday. More information: (402) 223-3514.

Nov. 24-Dec. 24 — Santa Station, SouthPointe Pavilions Shopping Center, 27th Street and Pine Lake Road, noon-8 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays; noon-6 p.m. Sundays (10 a.m.-4 p.m. Dec. 24). Between Von Maur and Talbots.

Nov. 24-Jan. 1 — Beaver Crossing Christmas Light Display, Beaver Crossing, Exit 369 off U.S. Interstate 80, dusk-10 p.m. Display features animated figures, a skating rink, large penguins, a candyland area and special salute to the military. Admission is free.

Nov. 25 — Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, Southpointe Pavillions, 27th and Pine Lake, 6:30 p.m. Santa flips giant switch to illuminate more than 60,000 lights. Music by the String Beans, free mini-train rides, refreshments, photos. Free admission. More information: 421-2114.

Nov. 25 — 31st annual Odell Craft Fair, Odell, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Free admission. Handmade craft items for sale. Sponsor: Odell Women for a Better Community. More information: Mary Jo Bures, (402) 766-3677.

Nov. 25 — Santa on the Square, Seward Courthouse Square, 10 a.m.-noon. Free.

Nov. 25 — Heritage Tour of Holiday Homes, historic Mennonite Immigrant House, two miles south of Interstate 80 Exit 342, Henderson, 4-7 p.m. Tour decorated farmhouse and barn, and decorated homes. More information: LaVonne Thiessen, (402) 723-4559; hendersonheritage.org

Nov. 25 — Falls City Christmas Festival (formerly NE-MO-KA Craft Fair), Prichard Auditorium, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Admission: adults, $1; under 12, free. About 70 vendors will have items for sale, including handcrafted items, home-based businesses and licensed food vendors. Lunch/concession stand in east wing of auditorium all day. Proceeds will benefit Richardson County Cancer Fund Inc. to assist local cancer patients with travel expenses for surgery, treatment or therapy outside the county. More information: Peggy Davidson, (402) 245-3070.

Nov. 25-26 and Dec. 2-3 — Winter Weekends at the Zoo, Lincoln Children’s Zoo, noon-4 p.m. Visit “Hudson” and “Yukon,” two real, live reindeer before they leave their yearlong zoo home to help Santa on his rounds. Reindeer demonstrations at 2 p.m. each day. Santa will be at the zoo to visit with children. Ride a pony; make nature crafts in Discovery Center; ride the Rudolph Express train. Special treats and tidbits for zoo animals. Gift shop open. Animal carnival games for small fee. Admission: free for zoo members; adults, $6; children and seniors, $5. More information: 475-6741 or www.lincolnzoo.org.

Nov. 26 — “Old-fashioned Christmas,” Nuckolls County Historical Society, Superior, 3-7 p.m. Enjoy reliving the past in the one-room school and original log cabin, and view horse-drawn farm machinery, Native displays, and period room settings. Free. More information: (402) 879-4144.

Nov. 26 — Die Singenden Wanderer German Men’s Choir, Homestead National Monument, four miles west of Beatrice, 1 and 3 p.m. This group will sing in German and interpret their songs and origins in English. Free. More information: (402) 223-3514.

Nov. 26 — Christmas in the Park, Beaver Crossing. Live nativity scene, 5 p.m. Caroling, hayracks, hotdogs, polishdogs, chips, cookies, drink. Freewill offering.

Nov. 27-Dec. 3

Nov. 27 — Mac McCune and Dorothy Applebee, Savannah Pines Retirement Community, 3900 Pines Lake Rd, 6:30 p.m. Free.

Nov. 27 — Student Brass Ensemble, Kimball Recital Hall, 12th and R streets, 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $5, general admission; $3, student/senior. More information: www.unl.edu/music

Nov. 27-Dec. 29 — Victorian Holidays Past, Thomas P. Kennard House, 1627 H St. Open Mondays through Fridays by appointment. Celebrate Victorian holidays past, featuring Victorian decorations, toys and historic photographs. Regular admission charged. Free open house: Sunday, Dec. 10, 1-5 p.m. Also open Dec. 10: Ferguson House, 700 S. 16th St., and Atwood House, 740 S. 17th St. More information: (402) 471-4764.

Nov. 28 — Jazz Ensembles I and II, Kimball Recital Hall, 12th and R streets, 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $5, general admission; $3, student/senior. More information: www.unl.edu/music

Nov. 29 — Student Chamber Music, Westbrook Recital Hall, Room 119, 10th and Q streets, 7:30 p.m. Free.

Nov. 29, Dec. 6, 13, 20 — Advent study on the Book of Isaiah, 6:30 p.m., Saint Paul United Methodist Church, 1144 M St., Rooms 155/157. Led by Steve Griffith. Free. More information: 477-6951.

Nov. 30 — Wind Ensemble, Kimball Recital Hall, 12th and R streets, 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $5, general admission; $3, student/senior. More information: www.unl.edu/music

Nov. 30, Dec. 1 — Heritage League’s Holiday of Trees, Westminster Presbyterian Church, 2110 Sheridan Blvd., 10 a.m.-8 p.m. View 25 trees decorated by Lincoln businesses, organizations and individuals. Café, pantry, attic treasures, boutique. Music and Ms. Santa. Tickets $1, to benefit Lincoln Lighthouse.

Nov. 30-Dec. 10 — “Christmas Stories,” Capitol City Christian Church, 7800 Holdrege St. 24th annual Christmas music and drama production; more than 125 performers. Choirs of all ages. Performances: Nov. 30, Dec. 1 — 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 2, 3 — 3 p.m., 6 p.m.; Dec. 6, 7,8 — 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 9 — 3 and 6 p.m.; Dec. 10 — 3 p.m. Tickets free; call 467-4157 or visit www.capitolcitychristian.com

Nov. 30-Dec. 7 — Annual quilt and hand-crafted items sale, First-Plymouth Church, 2000 D St. Sponsor: Friendly Service Sewing Group. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. weekdays; 8 a.m.-noon weekends. More information: 476-7565.

Dec. 1 — First Friday Organ Concert, Saint Paul United Methodist Church, 1144 M St., 12:10-12:50 p.m. John Friesen, organist, “The Nutcracker Suite.” Free. Optional light lunch available for $5. More information: 477-6951.

Dec. 1 — Wayne Miller, electric accordianist, Savannah Pines Retirement Community, 3900 Pines Lake Road, 6:15 p.m. Free.

Dec. 1 — Lighting of the Green, Midlands Lutheran College, Fremont,  campus green (gather at Event Center), 7 p.m. Midland’s traditional lighting celebration. Free.

Dec. 1 — First Friday with the String Beans, From Nebraska Gift Shop, 803 Q St, 6:30-7:15 p.m. Enjoy an evening of live, family-friendly music with The String Beans as they sing their original songs in a special, “un-plugged” performance. Free admission. More information: Julie Zielinski, 476-2455.

Dec. 1 — Nebraska Art Association Holiday Party, Sheldon Memorial Art Gallery, 12th and R streets, 5 p.m. Performances by the Chamber Singers. Free, open to public.

Dec. 1 — UNL Symphony Orchestra, Kimball Recital Hall, 12th and R streets, 7:30 p.m. Featuring Mark Clingon, piano, performing Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 20 in D minor, and Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 2 in C minor. Tickets: $5, general admission; $3, student/senior. More information: www.unl.edu/music

Dec. 1 — Holiday season open house, Gallery 9, 124 S. Ninth St., 7-10 p.m. Music, nibbles, and hand-made art work by member-artists. Ornaments, gift ideas, artwork. More information: 477-2822; www.gallerynine.com

Dec. 1 — Santa visits Geneva. 5:30-7:30 p.m., Santa’s hut. Light of the downtown Christmas decorations.

Dec. 1 — Wahoo’s Holiday Lighting and Lighted Parade, downtown Wahoo, Fifth and Broadway, 6 p.m. No admission charge. Parade, fireworks, tree lighting, holiday shopping. Lighted vehicle parade offers a variety of unique displays, from sleighs to stock trailers, combines to convertibles — all decorated with lights, animated characters, and some even with real people and animals. More information: Jennifer Woita, Wahoo Chamber of Commerce, (402) 443-4001, woita@wahoo.ne.us

Dec. 1, 2 — Lyp-Schtyk!, Lincoln Community Playhouse, 2500 S. 56th St. Improvisation based on audience suggestions and participation. Tickets: $15. Family-friendly performance times: 7 p.m. Dec. 1 and Dec. 2. Adults-only (age 18 and older) performance times: 10 p.m. Dec. 1 and Sat., Dec. 2. Call 489-7529 or visit www.lincolnplayhouse.com for more information. Sponsor: KZUM Community Radio.

Dec. 1, 2 — Dance Student concert, Mabel Lee Hall, Room 304, 14th and Vine streets, 7:30 p.m. Friday, Saturday. $5 suggested donation.

Dec. 1-3 — Fifth Annual Grand Ol’ Farm House Holiday Boutique, 2105 S. Coddington Ave., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday, Saturday, noon-4 p.m. Sunday. Offerings include cookies, jams, jellies, gift items. Sip hot cider and sample treats as you browse. $1 raffle tickets to benefit the Omaha Children’s Hospital. More information: 476-0211.

Dec. 1-3 — Christmas on the Prairie, Saunders County Museum, 240 N. Walnut St., Wahoo. Dec. 1, 7 p.m., old-fashioned social. Dec. 2-3, 2-8 p.m. Sponsor: Saunders County Historical Society. Annual celebration of Christmases past. This year’s theme: “Old Time Christmas.” Indoor and outdoor demonstrations; children’s programs; vintage fashion presentation; musical entertainment in both the church and the main museum. Large quilt show. Luminarias. Old-fashioned Christmas tree lighted Saturday and Sunday evenings. No admission charge; freewill offerings accepted. More information: museum curator Erin Hauser, (402) 443-3090.

Dec. 1-10 — Nicole Wortman Senior Art Showcase, Kimmel Gallery, Musbach Art Center, Midland Lutheran College, Fremont. Exhibit features works in a variety of mediums by Midland Lutheran College senior Nicole Wortman. Reception, Dec. 1, 6 p.m. Gallery hours: Monday-Friday, 7-10 p.m.; Sunday, 1-4 p.m. and 7-10 p.m.

Dec. 1-22 — Tracy Shell, “New Work,” Lux Center for the Arts, 48th and Baldwin streets. Shell is an artist, teacher and education/exhibition director for the Lux Center. This exhibition of work is devoted to floral display. No admission charge. Opening reception Dec. 1, 5-7 pm. Sponsor: Union Bank and Trust. More information: 466-8692; www.luxcenter.org

Dec. 2 — 22nd annual Star City Holiday Festival Parade. 11 a.m., downtown Lincoln. Theme, “Making Spirits Bright.” Sponsors: Updowntowners Inc. and city of Lincoln. Giant helium balloons and brightly colored push floats. The parade is dedicated to children and will be judged by children 8-14 years old. For more information about the Star City Holiday Festival, visit www.starcityholidayfestival.org or contact the festival headquarters at 434-6902.

Dec. 2 — Holiday Paradefest, First Christian Church, 16th and K streets, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Family fun event: arts and crafts show, silent auction until 1:30 p.m., hot lunch available, bake sale, free kids' activities, free photos taken. Free admission. Close to parade route. More information: 475-4289, www.fcclincoln.org

Dec. 2 — Annual Tannenbaum Festival, downtown Syracuse, 10 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Merchants’ holiday open houses. Soup luncheon, tour of homes, basket auction, free children's activities, Santa. Lighting of 25-foot-tall holiday tree at Midland and Fifth streets at 6:30pm. Sponsor: Syracuse Chamber of Commerce. More information: (888) 313-5609; www.syracusene.com

Dec. 2 — Christmas Parade of Homes, Syracuse, 1-4 p.m. Host: Syracuse Friends of the Library. Tickets: $8 per person, available at library, Nestfeathers, Do It Best, Common Threads. Christmas tea at libary follows.

Dec. 2 — Fundraiser for PFLAG (Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays), 6:30-9:30 p.m., home of Jack Salzman, 841 S. 15th St.  Tour holiday rooms featuring Christmas trees, antiques and Old World architecture. Chocolate desserts and wine. Cost at the door: $15. More information: Barbara, 489-9088.

Dec. 2 — Santa party and soup luncheon, Milford Fire Hall, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.  Treat bags will be distributed to children. Cookies, drinks served. Crafts and activities provided by Milford High School FCCLA. No admission charged; fee for pictures with Santa. Soup luncheon, 11-1. Freewill offerings with proceeds to the city park project. Sponsor: Kiwanis Club of Milford. More information: R. Eggerling, (402) 761-3763; rjeggerl@southeast.edu

Dec. 2 — German-Russian Christmas festival, American Historical Society of Germans from Russia Archives and Museum, 631 D St., 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Tour decorated museum buildings, view the new German-Russian antique collection, listen to Christmas music, and enjoy Christmas treats. Free. More information: Larry, 438-3814; Lucille, 475-8221.

Dec. 2 — Holiday gift bazaar, Campus LIfe Building, 6401 Pine Lake Road, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Dec. 2 — Horse and carriage rides, downtown Geneva, 3-5 p.m. Oak Grove Clydesdales offering rides. Freewill donation.

Dec. 2 — 9th annual Craft Fair, Trinity Lutheran Church, 724 S. 12th St., Lincoln. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Holiday sweets, gifts and more. Homemade soup, cinnamon rolls. More information: Jolene, 474-0606 or www.trinitylcms-lincoln.com.

Dec. 2 — Annual Beaver Crossing Community Christmas, 2-6 p.m., Faith Christian School. Cookies, coffee, hot chocolate, craft vendors, Life newsletter bake sale. Santa arrives at 4 p.m. for pictures and treat bags. Evening meal by Faith Christian School, 4:30-6:30. Drawings, raffles begin at 5 p.m. Sponsor: Beaver Crossing Chamber of Commerce. More information: Mary Ann Schernikau, (402) 532-3195.

Dec. 2 — Pancake breakfast, Lincoln Masonic Lodge 19, Masonic Temple, 1635 L St., 7:30-11 a.m. Pancakes, sausage, orange juice, milk, coffee. $5; children 3 and under, $2.

Dec. 2, 3 — Christmas at Concordia, St. John Lutheran Church, Seward, 3 p.m. Saturday, 3 and 7 p.m. Sunday. A joyful concert of musical selections woven together with scripture readings. Free. More information: www.cune.edu; (800) 535-5494, Ext. 7240.

Dec. 2, 3 — Holiday buffet, Concordia University, Seward, Janzow Campus Center, in conjunction with Christmas at Concordia concerts. Peter Prochnow, composer and pianist, will provide live music for the buffets. Cost: $15 for adults, $7 for children. 4:30 p.m. on Dec. 2; 3 p.m. on Dec. 3. Call 800-535-5494, ext. 7240. Prochnow, a third-generation music minister who earned his B.A. from Concordia, is best known for his 1994 Grammy-nominated “Jazz for Christmas.”

Dec. 2-3 — Winter Weekends at the Zoo, Lincoln Children’s Zoo, noon-4 p.m. See details at Nov. 25 entry.

Dec. 2, 3 — A Choral Garland, First-Plymouth Congregational Church, 20th and D streets, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, 1:30 and 4 p.m. Sunday. Tickets: $8/adult; $5 student/senior.

Dec. 2, 3 — Old Time Christmas Tour, Brownville, 1-5 p.m. Tour of historic homes in quaint river village. Featuring vintage decorations, music, stagecoach rides, art galleries, tree lighting, shopping. Soup supper and bake sale on Saturday. Sponsor: Brownville Fine Arts Association and Historical Society. Admission: adults, $7; children, $4. Tickets available at Main Street Town Hall, 12:30 p.m. More information: (402) 488-0070.

Dec. 2, 3 — Seasons of Crafts, Lancaster Event Center, 84th Street and Havelock Avenue. Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Arts and crafts show. Free.  More information: 489-5001.

Dec. 2, 9 — Hometown Holidays ‘06 annual Christmas tree contest and show, Wilber Care Center, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. Sponsor: Wilber Area Chamber of Commerce. More information: Lorine Mares, (402) 821-2304.

Dec. 2, 9, 16 — Holiday Art Camp, Lux Center for the Arts, 48th and Baldwin streets, Saturdays, 10 a.m.-noon. Class for children ages 6-12 explores variety of materials for making holiday themed art, decorations and presents. $60 per child, advanced registration required. More information: 466-8692; www.luxcenter.org

Dec. 3 — Brunch with Santa, Timber Dining Room, Lied Lodge and Conference Center, Nebraska City, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Bring the family to enjoy Brunch with Santa. Children have the opportunity to sit on Santa's knee and receive a gift to take home. Brunch includes a special children's dessert buffet. More information: (402) 873-8740.

Dec. 3 — Advent fun shop and pizza supper, Westminster Presbyterian Church, 2110 Sheridan Blvd., 3-5 p.m. Families are invited to make Advent crafts for gifts and decorations. Numerous crafts available, including a “secret wrapper room” for kids to make and wrap a craft for parents. Snacks, drinks served. Pizza, salad and drinks available starting at 4:30 p.m. Freewill offering. More information: 475-6702.

Dec. 3 — Tree of Lights celebration, homes tour, sponsored by Crete Area Health Care Foundation. $20 donation. 1-4:30 p.m., tour decorated homes in Crete and Wilber: Drs. Will and Emily Warnes, Crete; Chad and Dr. Jennifer Hill, Crete; Alan and Kim Florian, Wilber; John and Jo Brickner, Wilber. 5 p.m., Tree of Lights ceremony at medical center, 2910 Betten Drive. Carols and refreshments. Reading of names of those being remembered during the holidays.  Donation supports chapel/healing garden.   More information: Susan Chrastil, (402) 826-6581; camcfoundation@yahoo.com

Dec. 3 — The Music of Christmas, Saint Paul United Methodist Church, 12th and M streets, 10:30 a.m. Two newly commissioned works will be performed by the Saint Paul Chancel Choir with the Plymouth Brass and the Home School Choir of Lincoln. Local composer Jean Henderson's "Gloria" and Gayla Morgan's "Angels We Have Heard" will be featured. William A. Wyman will conduct.The Home School Choir of Lincoln conducted by John Friesen will also perform seasonal music. Free. More information: (402) 477-6951; www.saintpaulumc.org

Dec. 3 — Holiday soup and supper, Unitarian Church, 6300 A St., 5-8 p.m. Carols and holiday stories, intergenerational crafts. More information: 483-2213; unitarian@inebraska.com

Dec. 3 — Lincoln Northeast High School Candlelight Gala Concert, Saint Paul United Methodist Church, 12th and M streets, 6:30 p.m. Musical selections by Northeast Silhouettes, Chamber Singers and Concert Choir. Freewill offering. More information: 436-1304, Ext. 266 or 221.

 Dec. 3 — Hispanic winter traditions, Homestead National Monument, four miles west of Beatrice, 1 and 3 p.m. Ricardo Garcia will present a program on traditional Hispanic winter celebrations.

Dec. 3 — Scholarship Parade of Homes, Seward and Staplehurst, 12:30-4:30 p.m. Explore five country homes, fully decorated for Christmas, both turn-of-the-century and new homes. Funds raised go to support a local scholarship program. Tickets: $8. More information: www.cune.edu; (800) 535-5494, Ext. 7240. Tickets also available from Cattle National Bank & Trust Co., Jones National Bank & Trust Co., and Fashions by Barb in Seward, or on day at event at Seward High School or Weller Hall on Concordia campus.

Dec. 3 — Concordia Senior Exhibition Opening, Marxhausen Gallery of Art, Jesse Hall, Concordia University, Seward, 1-4 p.m. Three fine arts students speak about their senior theses. More information: www.cune.edu/art or 800-535-5494.

Dec. 3 — Advent Lessons and Carols, Grace Lutheran Church, 2225 Washington St. Advent readings and music, followed by soup supper.

Dec. 3 — Geneva Tour of Homes, presented by Geneva Arts Council. Variety of homes to be displayed as fundraiser for the council. 1-5 p.m. More information: gambles@inebraska.com, or (402) 759-1155.

Dec. 3 — Soup dinner and Christmas cookie sale, Ulysses Recreation Center (former school gym), 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Chili, chicken noodle soup, sandwiches. Crafts. Sponsor: Ulysses Recreation Committee. More information: (402) 549-2408.

Dec. 4-Dec. 10

Dec. 4 — Student Chamber Music, Kimball Recital Hall, 12th and R streets, 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $5, general admission; $3, student/senior. More information: www.unl.edu/music

Dec. 5 — Midland Women Christmas Tour, Midland Lutheran College Fremont, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Tour various sites in Omaha, including Joslyn Art Museum, including Holiday Under Glass concert; Lauritzen Gardens, including poinsettia show, and Joslyn Castle, dessert and coffee. Limited availability. Cost: $35, members; $50, non-members. More information: Sheri Wilberding, (402) 941-6050.

Dec. 5 — Symphonic Band, Kimball Recital Hall, 12th and R streets, 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $5, general admission; $3, student/senior. More information: www.unl.edu/music

Dec. 5 — “How Did We Get the Bible(s) We Have Today,” Advent lecture series, St. David’s Episcopal Church, 8800 Holdrege St., 7 p.m. The Rev. Dr. Sidnie White Crawford discusses how/where we got different Bible texts, as well as translations and use of “original” texts. Free. Continues Tuesdays, Dec. 12 and 19.

Dec. 5, 12, 19 — Free Advent lunches served at First Christian Church, 430 S. 16th St., following 12:10 Tuesday worship services.

Dec. 5 — Journey to the Manger, Weller Hall, Concordia University, Seward, 6:30-8 p.m. Student-led, outdoor devotional event features live scenes from the Bible, singing, dramatic readings and Scripture verses that help participants experience Jesus’ birth in a different way. More information: www.cune.edu; (800) 535-5494.

Dec. 6 —Student Composers, Kimball Recital Hall, 12th and R streets, 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $5, general admission; $3, student/senior. More information: www.unl.edu/music

Dec. 6 — Chorale Concert, Heine Recital Hall, Concordia University, Seward, 7 p.m. Featuring Christmas songs and a few other tunes. Free. More information: www.cune.edu/music; (800) 535-5494, Ext. 7282.

Dec. 7 — Bobby Layne Orchestra with Trudy DuMay, Savannah Pines, 3900 Pine Lake Road, 7-8:30 p.m. Free.

Dec. 7 — Third Annual Decemberfest, downtown Seward, 6-8 p.m. Santa arrives by horse-drawn wagon, lighting of community Christmas tree, free activities and treats for children. More information: (402) 643-4189; sewcham@sewardne.com

Dec. 7 — Big Red Singers and Vocal Jazz Ensemble, Kimball Recital Hall, 12th and R streets, 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $5, general admission; $3, student/senior. More information: www.unl.edu/music

Dec. 7-10 — “Christmas on 84th Street,” First Evangelical Free Church, 3300 S. 84th St., and New Covenant Church, 6000 S. 84th St., 6:30-8:30 p.m. Thursday-Sunday. Three churches, two locations, one purpose. Enjoy a series of short musical dramas, caroling, ensemble music, cookies and cocoa at New Covenant Church; then walk through Once Upon a Village, a first-century village replicating Bethlehem, with outdoor shepherds and animals, a main street with merchants, and a live nativity. Free. Sponsors: First Evangelical Free Church, New Covenant Church, and Faith Bible Church. More information: 484-5033 (New Cov.), or 483-7635 (First Free); www.christmason84thstreet.com

Dec. 7-10 — “Christmas Backstage,” Glory Gang Puppet Ministry’s annual Christmas show, 7 p.m., First Presbyterian Church, Auburn. Featuring live actors and puppets. Admission free, but tickets must be reserved in advance. Call (402) 274-4602.

Dec. 7-24 — Santa on the Courthouse Square, Seward Courthouse north lawn, 6-8 p.m. Santa arrives in a horsedrawn buggy. Santa returns for visits 6-8 p.m. Wednesdays, Thursdays; 3-5 p.m. Saturdays; and 1-3 p.m. Sundays. Free.

Dec. 8 — Musical Theatre Showcase, Westbrook Recital Hall, Room, 119, 10th and Q streets, 7:30 p.m. A revue show of 12 contemporary musical theatre scenes, involving a cast of both theatre and vocal performance graduate and undergraduate students. Free.

Dec. 8 — Holiday open house, Doane College, Lincoln campus, 303 N. 52nd St., 3-7 p.m. Celebration open to all students, alumni, faculty and staff, and includes visits from Santa Claus and the Doane Tiger. Santa will visit at 5:30 p.m. Appetizers and desserts served. More information: 466-4774.

Dec. 8 — Santa Claus is Coming to Town Pajama Party. Kids come to Geneva Public Library in holiday PJ’s for live reading of the Christmas poem. 6:30 p.m. More information: gambles2327@inebraska.com, or (402) 759-1155.

Dec. 8 — Winter Jazz Fest, Concordia University, 800 N. Columbia Ave., Seward, 7:30 p.m. Vocal Jazz Choir and Jazz Band will perform a collection of jazz standards. Free. More information: www.cune.edu/music or 800-535-5494, ext. 7282.

Dec. 8 — “Winter Wonderland, A Night of Elegance,” Thayer County Activity Center, Thayer County Fairgrounds, Deshler. 1st annual dinner-auction. Sponsor: Friends of Deshler Lutheran School. Barbecue brisket or chicken marsala dinner; silent and live auctions; entertainment. Tickets: $25 per person or $40 per couple, $150 for corporate or family table of eight. For ticket reservations, call Deb Schardt at (402) 365-4262 or Lori Grummert at (402) 365-7555.

Dec. 8, 9 — "O Holy Night," St. Andrew's Lutheran Church, 1015 Lancaster Lane, 4-8 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday. Third annual display of more than 300 nativity scenes and a collection of angels — an atmosphere of respite in the season of celebration. Prayer chapel staffed by chaplains. Scavenger hunt, drawings for door prizes. Freewill donation will be accepted on behalf of the Nebraska Disaster Chaplain Network, a program of Interchurch Ministries of Nebraska. Sponsor: IMN. More information: 476-3391; im50427@alltel.net.

Dec. 8, 9 — 21st Annual Christmas Tree Festival, Friend Community Center, 7-9 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday. Free. Sponsored by the Friendly Federated Garden Club. More information: (402) 947-4261.

Dec. 8-10 — “Four Tickets to Christmas,” Calvary Community Church, 4400 N. First St., 7 p.m. Friday-Sunday, additional performances at 9 and 11 a.m. Sunday. Broadway-style musical. Childcare provided for children 4 years and younger. More information: www.mycalvary.org

Dec. 8-17 — “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown,” Lincoln Community Playhouse, 2500 S. 56th St. Good grief! It’s the Peanuts Gang in a musical day-in-the-life of Charlie Brown. Fast paced, lighthearted musical. Thursday and Friday performances, 7 p.m.; Saturdays and Sunday, Dec. 10, 2 and 7 p.m.; Sunday, Dec. 17, 2 p.m. only. Tickets: $20, adults; $10, children. Call 489-7529 or visit www.lincolnplayhouse.com for more information.

Dec. 8-23 — “Tuesdays with Morrie,” by Mitch Albom and Jeffery Hatcher, Lofte Community Theater, Manley. Nebraska premiere of the stage adaptation of the book, starring Phil Heckman and Jeremy Kendall. Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, 7:30 p.m.; Saturdays, Sundays, 2 p.m. Tickets: $14 general admission; group rate available. More information: (402) 234-2553 or www.lofte.com.

Dec. 9 — Holiday Happening for Missions, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 2723 N. 50th St. (lower level, Black Fellowship Hall). Homemade Christmas cookies, other baked goods, crafts, nuts, silent auction, used books, kids korner. Lunch available: soups, sloppy joes, salads, homemade pies. All proceeds to United Methodist projects. More information: Donna Noble, 432-1236 or church office, 466-1906.

Dec. 9 — Children’s Christmas Store, Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church, 6901 Panama Road, Hickman, 9 a.m.-noon. Norris-area children, ages 3 to 5th grade, can shop for items for family members (up to six gifts per child, priced $1-$5 per item). Children need to be registered in advance. Proceeds go to the Norris area food pantry. More information: 792-2901, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. to register.

Dec. 9 — Cookie sale and bazaar, Immanuel Lutheran Church, 1009 G St., Eagle, 8:30-10:30 a.m. Annual cookie sale and bazaar: Christmas cookies, traditional cookies, candies, homemade items, other goodies. Cookies sold by the dozen. More information: 781-2190.

Dec. 9 — Breakfast with Santa, Seward Civic Center, 10 a.m. Free. Sponsored by Seward Rotary Club. Santa will be available for visits in his house on the courthouse square Wednesdays and Thursdays 6-8 p.m., Saturdays 3-5 p.m. and Sundays 1-3 p.m.

Dec. 9 — “No Room at the Inn,” Saint Paul United Methodist Church, 1144 M St., 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Hundreds of nativity sets on display in Bevins Family Life Center. Vocal groups will perform throughout the day. Living nativity available noon-1 p.m. Donations accepted; proceeds benefit Friendship Home. Free refreshments. More information: 477-6951.

Dec. 9 — Holiday Chocolate Party,  Jack Saltzman residence, 841 S. 15th St., 6:30-9:30 p.m.  Enjoy decadent desserts in a fabulous setting, filled with beautiful antiques and lavish holiday decorations.  Tickets:  $20 in advance; $25 at the door. Sponsored by the Interfaith Housing Coalition to benefit the Ambassador and President apartments. For more information or to purchase tickets in advance, call 484-6356.

Dec. 9 — Hometown Holidays ‘06 Santa visit, Hotel Wilber, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Sit on Santa's lap, decorate frames for photos, get goodie sacks. Prize drawings. Free. Sponsor: Wilber Area Chamber of Commerce. More information: (402) 821-2732.

Dec. 9 — German feast, Midland Lutheran College dining hall, Fremont, 4-7 p.m. Cost: $15, adults; $5, children 12 and under; children 3 and under, free. Reservations requested; pay at door. More information: (402) 941-6107; or (800) 642-8382, Ext. 6107.

Dec. 9 — Elizabethan Christmas Feast, Great Hall, Smith-Curtis Administration Building, Nebraska Wesleyan University, 6 p.m. Madrigal feast featuring music by the NWU Chamber Ensemble, Recorder Consort and Herald Trumpets with a full comedia del arte presentation. A full meal is served. Tickets: $16 per person in advance only; call (402) 465-2269 or e-mail to kmb@NebrWesleyan.edu. More information: www.music.nebrwesleyan.edu

Dec. 9 — “Amahl and the Night Visitors,” by G