Holiday happenings in the area

The following events are taking place in and around McHenry County for the holidays.

TOY DRIVE FOR CHILDREN'S MEMORIAL HOSPITAL, 12th annual, Nov. 24 through Jan. 3, collecting new toys for children in the hematology/oncology department at the following area locations: Algonquin Academy of Dance in Lake in the Hills, The Ballet Box in Algonquin, Dance Force in Huntley, Heritage Title in Crystal Lake, Huntley Unlimited Gymnastics, The Learning Tree in Algonquin, La Petite Academy in Lake in the Hills, Milestone Mortgage Solutions in Lake in the Hills, Mortgage Insurance Agency in Crystal Lake, RE/MAX Superior Properties in Huntley, Rogy Learning Place in Algonquin, Rebecca McCarthy School of Dance in Algonquin, Sprouts About in Lake in the Hills, and Trinity Gymnastics in Lake in the Hills. Information: 847-421-0741 or lsavage@remax.net.

ANNUAL GINGERBREAD CONTEST, Nov. 25 with winners announced Dec. 19. Members of the public invited to create and submit a gingerbread creation (house, train, street scene or whatever). Entries must be dropped off and registered at KaleidoScoops Ice Cream starting Nov. 25. Creations will remain on display at KaleidoScoops. Public invited to vote for their favorite creation. Details, recipes and more can be found at: www.downtowncl.org. Information: 815-788-0027.

THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER,  8 p.m. Nov. 25-26 and Dec. 2; 4 p.m. Nov. 27; 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Dec. 3; 3 p.m. Dec. 4, Woodstock Opera House, 121 E. Van Buren St., Woodstock. Presented by Woodstock Musical Theatre Company. In this hilarious Christmas tale, an Opera House debut, a couple is struggling to put on a church Christmas pageant. When the couple is faced with casting the Herdman kids - probably the most inventively awful kids in history - the result is very funny chaos. Tickets: $23 adults, $20 seniors and students at: 815-338-5300 or www.woodstockoperahouse.com.

FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS PARADE, 7 p.m. Nov. 25, downtown Crystal Lake. Santa will arrive in a horse-drawn sleigh. Crystal Lake's only nighttime parade featuring decorated floats, marchers, and music to escort the guest of honor. Information: 815-479-0835 or www.downtowncl.org.

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS, 11th annual, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nov. 25-26 and noon to 5 p.m. Nov. 27, Kimball & Bean Architectural and Garden Antiques, 3603 S. Country Club Road, Woodstock. Holiday open house in a 19th century store-in-a-barn offering antiques and vintage and handcrafted holiday decorations for the home and garden. Information: 815-444-9000 or www.kimballandbean.com.

KRIS KRINGLE DAYS, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nov. 25-27, Ridgefield Antique and Specialty Shops, on Ridgefield Road off Route 14 between Crystal Lake and Woodstock. The  mood is festive and the shops are filled with antiques, vintage, architectural, primitives, florals, custom framing and fine arts. Information: 815-477-4601 or www.theshopsofridgefield.com.

SANTA HOUSE VISITS, Nov. 25 through Dec. 23, Brink Street Market, Crystal Lake. Children whisper their wishes during their visit with Santa in the comfort of his house at Brink Street Market. Hours: 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday and Friday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, noon to 3 p.m. Sunday. Information: 815-479-0835 or www.downtowncl.org.

ANNUAL CHRISTMAS TREE LOT, starting Nov. 26, Algonquin Township building (next to The Hollows entrance), Route 14, Crystal Lake. The Cary-Grove Jaycees will sell Balsam trees in sizes 5 to 10 feet. Hours: 6 to 9 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Information: 847-361-0186.

HONEYCRAFT MARKET, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 27 and Dec. 4, Mixin Mingle, 231 Main St., Woodstock. A wide variety of high quality, local vendors offering handmade and hard-to-find items. Free admission. Information: 815-308-5170 or www.mixinmingle.com.

HOLIDAY MUSIC, 1:30 to 3 p.m. Nov. 27, McHenry Public Library, 809 N. Front St., McHenry. Program featuring Phil Passen and his dulcimer for ages 10 and older. Registration and information: 815-385-0036 or www.mchenrylibrary.org.

HOLIDAY CRAFTS, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Nov. 30 through Dec. 14, Community Center, 255 Briargate Road, Cary. Sponsor: Cary Park District. Cosmo Girl Crafts program for girls age 7 and older and meets Wednesdays. Cost: $29 residents, $44 nonresidents. Registration and information: 847-639-6100 or www.carypark.com.

HOLIDAY FLORAL EXTRAVAGANZA, 7 p.m. Dec. 1, McHenry West High School, 4724 W. Crystal Lake Road, McHenry. Hosted by the McHenry Garden Club. Live and on stage local arrangers from local florists will prepare arrangements and through drawings will be given to audience members to take home. Tickets: $8 in advance until Nov. 27 or $10 at the door. Information: 815-385-3369; 815-344-1965 or www.mchenrygardenclub.com.

ANNUAL HOLIDAY SHOP, 3 to 5:30 p.m. Dec. 2, Lake in the Hills Elementary School, 519 Willow Road, Lake in the Hills. Hand-crafted holiday gifts, ornaments, candles, and more. Pictures with Santa (for a fee). For information, contact: lithholidayshop@gmail.com.

ARTIST'S HOLIDAY SHOP, 5 p.m. Dec. 2; and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 3-4, The Inspired Art Studio, 1316 Spring Beach Way, Cary. Featuring 15 local artists selling jewelry, blown glass, paintings, prints, cards, holiday crafts and other handcrafted items. Browse and enjoy holiday cookies and hot cocoa. Information: 847-624-3937 or www.inspiredart.us.

CANDLELIGHT CHRISTMAS TOUR, fourth annual, 6 to 8:30 p.m. Dec. 2-3, Colonel Palmer House, 660 E. Terra Cotta Ave., Crystal Lake. Crystal Lake Historical Society and the Crystal Lake Park District invite the public to celebrate Christmas in 1861 as the first year of the Civil War comes to a close. This is a timed and ticketed event with reservations required. Tickets: $8 adults, $5 seniors and children at 815-455-1151 or www.cl-hs.org.

CHRISTMAS AT THE DOLE, 6 to 10:30 p.m. Dec. 2, Dole Mansion, 401 Country Club Road, Crystal Lake. Vignette holiday performances, a tree-lighting ceremony at 7 p.m., caroling, refreshments, silent auction, raffle and more. Family friendly event. Tickets: $35 a person adults, $65 a couple, $20 ages 13-20, $10 ages 12 and younger presale only purchased by Nov. 29. Information: 815-455-8000 or www.lakesidelegacy.org.

CHRISTMAS PROCESSION & TREE LIGHTING, 7 p.m. Dec. 2, downtown Marengo, with Santa's arrival at the Fire Department at 120 E. Prairie. Join us as we welcome the season and celebrate with our annual Christmas event. Free admission. Information: 815-568-8440 or www.marengomainstreet.org.

LAKE IN THE HILLS LETTERS TO SANTA, for residents of Lake in the Hills. Have a holiday letter sent to your child from Santa himself. Send a stamped business envelope with your child's name and address printed on it. Envelopes must be received by Dec. 2. Drop off or mail to: Santa Claus, c/o Lake in the Hills Recreation Department, 600 Harvest Gate, Lake in the Hills, IL 60156. Information: 847-960-7460.

ANNUAL CHRISTMAS BAZAAR, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 3, Nativity Lutheran Church, 3506 E. Wonder Lake Road, Wonder Lake. Cookie walk, vendor craft tables, silent auction, raffles, face painting, refreshments. Mrs. Claus will be in attendance. Portion of proceeds benefit the Wonder Lake Neighbors Food Pantry and Rings Youth Group. Information: 815-653-3832.

BOAR'S HEAD FESTIVAL, 12th annual, 6 p.m. Dec. 3; 2 and 5 p.m. Dec. 4, Zion Lutheran Church, 412 E. Jackson St., Marengo. Step back in time to the court of King Wencelas and witness a live presentation of the nativity. After each performance guests invited to mingle with the performers and enjoy Christmas cookies and Wassail. Free admission, but ticket reservations are required. Information: 815-568-6564 or www.zionmarengo.net.

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA, 9 to 11 a.m. Dec. 3, Crandall's, 10441 Route 47, Hebron. All-you-can-eat breakfast buffet. Tickets: $8 adults, $6 children ages 3-12, free for children 2 and younger available at the door or in advance at Crandall's or Subway in Hebron. Information: 815-648-2683.

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA, 9 to 11 a.m. Dec. 3, Marengo Park District, 825 Indian Oaks Trail, Marengo. Light continental breakfast, coloring contest, visit and photo with Santa for children age 8 and younger with their families. Free. Co-sponsored by Marengo Chamber of Commerce and photos provided by Century 21 New Heritage. Also accepting letters to Santa at the Recreation Center until Dec. 15. Information: 815-568-5126.

COOKIE WALK, 11th annual, noon to 4 p.m. Dec. 3; and 9 a.m. to noon Dec. 4, St. Joseph Church, 10519 Main St., Richmond. Presented by the St. Joseph Altar and Rosary Council of Catholic Women Society. Offering medium and large boxes of cookies, Santa's sweet shoppe candy treats, and religious goods table for special gifts. Information: 815-648-2415 or 815-678-7421.

COUNTRY CHRISTMAS ARTS & CRAFTS FAIR, 24th annual, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 3, St. John's Lutheran Church and School, 300 Jefferson St., Algonquin. Crafters will display a variety of homemade crafts and artwork. Hot cinnamon rolls and fresh-baked bread. All-you-can-eat homemade soup and chili/salad/dessert bar. Door prizes. Information: 847-658-9100.

CRAFT & VENDOR FAIR, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 3, McHenry Township Senior Services Building at McHenry Township (behind Moose Lodge), 3703 N. Richmond Road, McHenry. Hosted by the Relay for Life North McHenry County committee. Raffles, 50/50. Free admission. For information, contact: tammyw14@att.net.

CROSSING BORDERS ART TOUR & SALE, eighth annual, and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 3 and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 4, starting at Carriage House Gallery, 2110 Main St., Spring Grove, to Southwest Wisconsin. Join talented artists as they open their studios and galleries for two weekends of holiday shopping. Information: 815-219-9834 or www.carriagehousegallery.com.

HELPING OUR HEROES WRAPPING DAY, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 3, Eastgate Manor Supportive Living, 101 Eastgate Drive, Algonquin. Free gift wrapping. Help our heroes with a donation in king for wrapping your gifts. Proceeds benefit military, veterans, police and firefighters. Information: 847-458-2800.

HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES & CRAFT BAZAAR, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 3, Riverwood School, 300 S. Driftwood Trail, McHenry. Visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, decorate cookies and make ornaments. Holiday gift shopping. Admission: $1 donation per person at the door to support F.I.S.H. of McHenry. Sponsor: McHenry Parks & Recreation Department. Information: 815-363-2160 or www.ci.mchenry.il.us.

HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE, 1 to 4 p.m. Dec. 3, McHenry County Historical Society Museum, 6422 Main St., Union. Featuring a large display of retro aluminum Christmas trees provided by local Christmas memorabilia collector Dave Harms. Holiday music, unique local history gifts and tasty goodies. Free admission. Information: 815-923-2267 or www.mchsonline.org.

MARENGO-UNION HOLIDAY HOUSE WALK, 20th annual, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 3 and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 4, featuring more than 50 crafters and artists at 20 locations throughout the Marengo and Union area. Displays include a wide variety of unique handcrafted items, decorated antiques and primitives, and holiday decor. Accepting donations of nonperishable food items for the Marengo-Union Food Pantry at each stop. For information and detailed maps, visit: www.holidayhousewalk.com or call 815-568-0443.

NATIVITY SET DISPLAY, 4 to 8 p.m. Dec. 3, Hebron United Methodist Church, 9811 Main St., Hebron. View many nativity sets owned by members and friends of the church. Share in some cookies and punch. Information: 815-648-2512.

RELAY FOR LIFE NORTH McHENRY CRAFT FAIR, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 3, Senior Services building at McHenry Township, 3703 N. Richmond Road, McHenry. Shop for the holidays. Raffles. Free admission. Information, contact Tammy: at tammyw14@att.net.

SEASON OF MUSIC & LIGHT, 1 p.m. Dec. 3 and 3 p.m. Dec. 4, Huntley High School Performing Arts Center, 13719 Harmony Road, Huntley. Prairie Singers concert. Tickets: $10 adults, $3 children ages 2-12 available at Castle Bank, Citizens Bank and Harris Bank. Ticket sales also available Nov. 22 and Nov. 30 at Prairie Lodge in Huntley. Tickets and information: 847-569-6491.

SNOW ANGELS FAIR CRAFTS, COOKIES & QUILTS, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 3, Redeemer Lutheran Church, 1320 Dean St., Woodstock. Craft fair, cookie walk and annual quilt sale and quilt raffle. Free admission. Information: 815-338-9370 or www.rlcw.org.

VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS COOKIE WALK & CRAFT SHOW, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 3, First United Methodist Church, 201 W. South St., Woodstock. Information: 815-338-3310.

DECORATE YOUR OWN GINGERBREAD HOUSE, 1 to 2:30 p.m. Dec. 4, Le Petit Marche, 19 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake. Children ages 5 and older can decorate a pre-baked gingerbread house. Participants can take their completed house to enjoy or register it in the Downtown Gingerbread Contest at KaleidoScoops. There is a fee and space is limited. Registration and information: 815-477-3296.

HOLIDAY CONCERT, seventh annual, 2 p.m. Dec. 4, Prairie Ridge High School, 6000 Dvorak Drive, Crystal Lake. McHenry County Youth Orchestras concert to benefit the Crystal Lake Interfaith Food Pantry. Monetary good-will offerings will be accepted at the door to purchase perishable items for local families served by the food pantry. Sponsored by Follett Corporation. Information: 815-356-6296 or www.mcmusic.org.

REJOICE, GIVE THANKS, AND SING – 100th ST. OLAF CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL LIVE, 2:30 p.m. Dec. 4, Regal Showplace 16, 5000 Northwest Highway, Crystal Lake. Live simulcast musical celebration. Tickets: $20 adults, $16 children at 815-455-3285 or www.fathomevents.com.

CHICAGO THE BAND PRESENTS AN EVENING OF HOLIDAY MUSIC AND GREATEST HITS, 7 p.m. Dec. 6, Regal Showplace 16, 5000 Northwest Highway, Crystal Lake. An exclusive theater holiday concert presentation. Tickets: $ at 815-455-3285 or www.fathomevents.com.

CHRISTMAS BEDTIME STORIES, 7 to 8 p.m. Dec. 6, Rotary Building, 431 N. Walkup, Crystal Lake. Children in pajamas with a favorite stuffed animal can come for a magical night of Christmas songs and stories with Mrs. Claus. Juice, milk and cookies will be served. Sponsored by the Crystal Lake Park District. Continues 7 to 8 p.m. Dec. 9, 13 and 16. Cost: $13 residents, $19 nonresidents. Registration and information: 815-459-0680 or www.crystallakeparks.org.

CARY PARK DISTRICT HOLIDAY COOKING EVENTS, Community Center, 255 Briargate Road, Cary. Schedule: 4:30 to 6 p.m. (ages 6-8 with parent) and 6:20 to 7:50 p.m. (ages 8-11 with parent) Dec. 8, Parent & child Creative Cooking ($16 residents child/parent pair, $24 nonresidents); 10:30 a.m. to noon Dec. 17, Gingerbread House ($19 residents, $29 nonresidents). Registration and information: 847-639-6100 or www.carypark.com.

BREAKFAST WITH MR. & MRS. CLAUS, third annual, 8:30 to 9:45 a.m. or 10 to 11:15 a.m. Dec. 10, Moose Lodge, 406 Clay St., Woodstock. Stop by and see Santa for a photo opportunity or whisper your holiday wishes in his ear. Cost: $9 a person. Reservations being taken at the Woodstock Recreation Department, 820 Lake Ave., Woodstock. Registration and information: 815-338-4363.

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA, 9 a.m. Dec. 10, Old Towne Hall, 54 Brink St., Crystal Lake. Children enjoy a buffet breakfast with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Music, games, gifts and photo for each child included in ticket price. Tickets: $12 available at Dalzell Jewelers and Heisler's Bootery or online at: www.downtowncl.org. Information: 815-479-0835.

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA, 10 a.m. Dec. 10, Park Place, 406 W. Woodstock St., Crystal Lake. Hosted by the Crystal Lake Park District. Includes a traditional hot breakfast, goody bag, visit from Santa and raffle drawing entry. Bring your camera. Cost: $12 adults, $10 children. Registration and information: 815-459-0680 or www.crystallakeparks.org, Program Code 1225-0.

CHRISTMAS CONCERT & HOUSE TOUR, 6:30 p.m. Dec. 10, Sanfilippo Estate, 789 Plum Tree Road, Barrington Hills. Estate tour at 6:30 p.m. followed by an 8 p.m. Sanfilippo Foundation Christmas concert featuring organist Dave Wickerham with special guests The Harp Twins. Event benefits Faith in Action of McHenry County. Tickets: $65 a person at www.placedelamusique.org.

CHRISTMAS ELF WORKSHOP, noon to 4 p.m. Dec. 10, Creative Artistry, 400 Highland Ave., Crystal Lake. Create handmade gifts featuring a variety of choices. Cost: $3 per craft punch card. Elves available to assist. Parents free if helping. Free punch and cookies. Christmas music. Registration and information: 815-404-6520 or arttart13@gmail.com.

COOKIE WALK & GIFT BASKET SALE, 10 a.m. Dec. 10, Faith Community United Church of Christ, 2023 Route 176, Prairie Grove. Fresh cookies at $6 per pound. Gift baskets and more than 100 nativity sets on display. Information: 815-479-1307.

CRAFT SHOW & COOKIE WALK, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 10, St. John's Lutheran Church, 401 St. John's Road, Woodstock. Information: 815-338-5159.

AND THEY NAMED ME JESUS, 9 and 10:45 a.m. services Dec. 11, First Congregational Church, 461 Pierson St., Crystal Lake. Christmas cantata presented by the youth and children's choirs. Public invited to attend the holiday program. Information: 815-459-6010 or www.fcc-cl.org.

HOLIDAY DANCE SHOW, 4 p.m. Dec. 11, Springbrook Community Church, 10115 Algonquin Road, Huntley. Show features ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical-style dance presented by The Rebecca McCarthy School of Dance in Algonquin. Tickets: $8 a person available by calling 847-658-4595.

SING-ALONG MESSIAH, 4 p.m. Dec. 11, Raue Center for the Arts, 26 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake. Presented by Voices in Harmony and the McHenry County College Choir. Tickets: $18 general admission at 815-356-9212 or www.rauecenter.org.

McHENRY MIDDLE SCHOOL MADRIGALS, 6:30 p.m. Dec. 12, McHenry Public Library, 809 N. Front St., McHenry. A night of Christmas melodies program for all ages. Registration and information: 815-385-0036 or www.mchenrylibrary.org.

SUPER STOLIE CHRISTMAS, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Dec. 14, McHenry Public Library, 809 N. Front St., McHenry. Sing, dance, shake and jump with Chicagoland musician Stolie. Get your picture taken with a special red-suited guest ($1 fee payable in person at registration). Geared toward preschoolers, but older children welcome with parent. Registration and information: 815-385-0036 or www.mchenrylibrary.org.

CREATE A GINGERBREAD HOUSE, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Dec. 15, McHenry Public Library, 809 N. Front St., McHenry. For children in grades 1 through 5 with help from high school art students. Supplies provided. Registration and information: 815-385-0036 or www.mchenrylibrary.org.

MADRIGAL DINNERS, 40th annual, 7 to 9 p.m. Dec. 16-17; and 4 to 7 p.m. Dec. 18, Crystal Lake Central High School Cafeteria, 45 W. Franklin Ave., Crystal Lake. Travel through time to Merrie Olde England as we celebrate Christmas in the traditional English style with singing, entertainment and a Cornish game hen castle feast presented by Crystal Lake Central High School. Tickets: $25 a person. For tickets, visit: www.d155.org/clc.

THE NUTCRACKER, 3 and 7 p.m. Dec. 17; and 3 p.m. Dec. 18, Raue Center for the Arts, 26 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake. Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable music, emotional dancing and lavish costumes presented by the Berkshire Ballet Theatre. Tickets: $19, $22, $25 at 815-356-9212 or www.rauecenter.org.

BREAKFAST OR LUNCH WITH SANTA, 9:30 to 11 a.m. or noon to 1:30 p.m. Dec. 20, McHenry Municipal Center, 333 S. Green St., McHenry. For children ages 1 to 5 with adults sponsored by the McHenry Parks & Recreation Department. Sing songs, make an ornament, listen to a story, visit with Santa and eat breakfast or lunch. Cost: $10 per child, adults free. Registration and information: 815-363-2160 or www.ci.mchenry.il.us.

HOLIDAY TASTY TREATS, 9 a.m. to noon Dec. 21 or Dec. 22, Lakeland Park Community Center, 1717 N. Sunset Ave., McHenry. For children ages 8 to 12. Sponsor: McHenry Parks & Recreation Department. Learn to make gingerbread houses or holiday cookies. Cost: $27 residents, $37 nonresidents. Registration and information: 815-363-2160 or www.ci.mchenry.il.us.

HOLIDAY LUNCHEON FOR AREA SENIORS, noon Dec. 22, Village of Hearthstone Communities, 840 N. Seminary Ave., Woodstock. Lunch followed by entertainment fit for the holidays. Sponsor: Hearthstone Communities. Registration and information: 815-338-2110.

LAST-MINUTE GIFT WORKSHOP, 2 to 4 p.m. Dec. 22, McHenry Public Library, 809 N. Front St., McHenry. Children in grades 6 through 12 will create a variety of gifts to make, wrap and give this holiday season. Registration and information: 815-385-0036 or www.mchenrylibrary.org.

BRYAN WHITE, 7 p.m. Dec. 30, Woodstock Opera House, 121 Van Buren St., Woodstock. "A White Christmas" concert with special guest Anna Johnson. Tickets: $33 all seats at 815-338-5300 or www.woodstockoperahouse.com.

SANTA'S SILVER AND GOLD GROVE, through Dec. 18, Steel Beam Theatre, 111 W. Main St., St. Charles. Interactive musical. The story is set at Santa's private Pine Grove estate where Mrs. Claus and the elves are planning a surprise party for Santa. Schedule: 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturdays and 1 p.m. Sundays. Tickets: $14 adults, $10 children 16 and younger at 630-587-8521 or www.steelbeamtheatre.com.

SCROOGE THE MUSICAL, through Dec. 23, Steel Beam Theatre, 111 W. Main St., St. Charles. An upbeat musical version of "Scrooge" adapted from the 1970 Academy Award-winning movie based on Dickens' "A Christmas Carol." Schedule: 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 3 p.m. Sundays; 7:30 p.m. Dec. 1, 8, 15, 22; and 3 p.m. Saturdays. Tickets: $25 adults, $23 seniors and students age 16 and younger, $22 groups of 10 or more at 630-587-8521 or www.steelbeamtheatre.com.

SING ALONG WITH SANTA, 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturdays and 1 p.m. Sundays through Dec. 23, Steel Beam Theatre, 111 W. Main St., St. Charles. Holiday extravaganza featuring friendly costumed characters, improv-based skits by Steel Beam Children's Theatre cast, sing-along Christmas favorites, and goody bag from Santa and photos with Santa. Tickets: $14 adults, $10 students age 16 and younger at 630-587-8521 or www.steelbeamtheatre.com.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL, Nov. 25 through Dec. 20, Drury Lane Theatre, 100 Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace. Charles Dickens' classic presented by Drury Lane Children's Theatre. Story of Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserly old man who receives a Christmas Eve visit from the ghost of his old business partner warning him to men his ways. Various performance times. Tickets: $12 adults and children show only. Breakfast with Santa tickets: $25 adults, $22 children 12 and younger at 630-530-0111; www.ticketmaster.com or www.drurylaneoakbrook.com.

WONDERLAND EXPRESS, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Nov. 25 through Jan. 1, Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe. Winter wonderland of twinkling lights, garden-scale trains, miniature Chicago landmarks, beautiful horticulture displays and indoor snowfall. Closed 3 p.m. Dec. 1, 24 and all day Dec. 25. Tickets: $10 adults ($8 Garden members), $8 seniors and children ages 3-12 ($6 members); free admission on Tuesdays (limit four tickets per transaction). Parking: $20 per car. Information: 847-835-5440 or www.chicagobotanic.org/wonderland.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL, 9:45 a.m. and noon Dec. 2; 3 and 6 p.m. Dec. 3, Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symhpony Way, Elgin. Charles Dickens' classic holiday tale about the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge. Tickets: $7 all seats at 847-931-5900 or www.hemmens.org.

BABES IN TOYLAND, 7 p.m. Dec. 2; 2 and 7 p.m. Dec. 3; 2 p.m. Dec. 4, 19th Century Club, 178 Forest Ave., Oak Park. Chicago Folks Operetta presentation. An operetta for all ages. The story follows the adventures of two orphans, Jane and Alan, who are trying to escape their evil Uncle Barnaby's clutches. Tickets: $15 adults, $12 seniors, $10 children at 708-383-2742 or www.chicagofolksoperetta.org.

DUNDEE LIONS FESTIVAL OF TREES, Dec. 2-3, Grafleman Park, on Route 72, West Dundee. A Christmas tree decorating contest to take place during the annual Dickens in Dundee event. All Dundee Township schools, youth groups and other children in the community invited to participate. Each group may decorate one or two trees provided by the Lions Club with child-like ornaments. To participate, contact: Jim McClung, 847-567-7127 or jimbarbmcclung@wowway.com.

TWIST-A-CAROL II: MOBY-NICK, 7:30 p.m. Dec. 2-3 and 3 p.m. Dec. 4, Elgin Art Showcase, 164 Division St., Elgin. New holiday show presented by Vex Theatre Company. Show features several short, quirky plays about the holidays, interspersed with live music. Tickets: $10. For information, visit: www.vextheatre.org.

CHRISTMAS SWEETS & CRAFTS SHOP, third annual, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 3, First United Methodist Church of West Dundee, Fourth and Main streets, West Dundee. Offering seasonal favorite sweets, cookies, candy, bread, jams, pies, and a variety of Christmas crafts and decorations. Sweet rolls, coffee and hot chocolate, and hot chili lunch also available. Free admission. Information: 847-426-2113.

COOKIE WALK, BAZAAR & HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE, 11th annual, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 3, First Congregational Church of Dundee, 900 S. Eighth St., West Dundee. Homemade holiday cookies and candies, bazaar and boutique of holiday items for sale. Nativity Walk display. Free admission. Information: 847-426-2161, Ext. 210 or www.fccdundee.com.

DULCIMER  MUSIC & CANDLELIGHT AT THE INN, 3 to 7 p.m. Dec. 3-4, Garfield Farm Museum, 3N016 Garfield Road, LaFox. Annual reception. Interpreters wearing period clothing will share what life was like for people during the height of the horse and wagon era. Free, but donations are welcome. Information: 630-584-8485 or www.garfieldfarm.org.

HOLIDAY MAGIC AT BROOKFIELD ZOO, 30th annual, 4 to 9 p.m. Dec. 3-31, 3300 Golf Road, Brookfield. Featuring nearly one million twinkling lights, light show, ice-carving demonstrations, signing to the animals, live music and entertainment, magicians and more. Schedule: 4 to 9 p.m. Dec. 3-4, 10-11, 17-18, 26-31. Admission: $13.50 adults, $9.50 seniors and children ages 3-11, free for children 2 and younger. Parking: $9 per car. Information: 708-688-8000 or www.brookfieldzoo.org.

ANNUAL CHANUKAH BAZAAR, Dec. 4-14, 330 Division St., Elgin. Offering a wide selection of menorahs and candles, dreidles, decorations, toys, wrapping paper, traditional chocolate gelt and more. Hosted by The Sisterhood of Congregation Kneseth Israel. Schedule: 9 a.m. to noon Dec. 4; 7 to 8:30 p.m. Dec. 6; 5 to 6:30 p.m. Dec. 7; 9 a.m. to noon Dec. 11 and Dec. 14. Information: 847-741-5656 or www.ckielgin.org.

CHRISTMAS CAROL SING, 3 p.m. Dec. 4, St. James Episcopal Church, 516 Washington St., West Dundee. The community event is part of the Dickens in Dundee celebration. Prelude music will include brass and organ music presented by the Crystal Brass Ensemble. The choir will be drawn from area churches to sing familiar carols of the Christmas season. A free-will offering will be taken for the Fish Food Pantry in Carpentersville. Information: 847-426-5612.

CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL OF SINGERS, 6 to 8 p.m. Dec. 4, 11 and 18, Villa Verone, 13 Douglas Ave., Elgin. Presented by Elgin Opera. Enjoy opera and musical theatre favorites as well as traditional holiday selections. Free admission, but reservations are recommended at 847-742-0263.

HOLIDAY JOY, 3 p.m. Dec. 4, First United Methodist Church, 216 E. Highland Ave., Elgin. Fox Valley Men of Harmony holiday show. Tickets: $10 adults, free for children age 5 and younger. Tickets available at the door. Information: 847-468-0916 or www.foxvalleymenofharmony.com.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL, 10 a.m. Dec. 8; 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. Dec. 9, Paramount Theatre, 23 E. Galena Blvd., Aurora. Join Ebenezer Scrooge as he is transported through past, present and future in a quest for the true meaning of Christmas. Tickets: $14-$37 at 630-896-6666 or www.paramountaurora.com.

HOLIDAY POPS CONCERT: WINTER WONDERLAND, 7 p.m. Dec. 10, Boutell Memorial Concert Hall at Northern Illinois University, 300 Lucinda Ave., DeKalb. Kishwaukee Symphony Orchestra traditional family concert. Tickets: $15 adults, $10 seniors and students, $5 children younger than 12 at 815-756-3728 or www.kishorchestra.org.

LIVE NATIVITY WALK, third annual, 2 and 4 p.m. Dec. 10, Messiah Lutheran Church, 25225 W. Ivanhoe Road, Wauconda. There will be narration of the birth of Christ, singing by youth and teens, and live animals along the walk. After the walk there will be a hot chocolate and cookie reception in the gathering area. A free-will offering will be taken. Information: 847-526-7161.

THE NUTCRACKER, 3 and 7 p.m. Dec. 10; and 3 p.m. Dec. 11, Elgin Community College Arts Center, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin. Civic Ballet of Chicago production of Clara's journey to a magical land. Tickets: $27 adults, $13 children age 12 and younger at 847-622-0300 or www.elgin.edu/arts.

SECOND CITY'S DYSFUNCTIONAL HOLIDAY REVUE, 8 p.m. Dec. 10, Ramsey Auditorium in Wilson Hall at Fermilab, Pine Street at Kirk Road, Batavia. Need a bit of humor in your holiday festivities? Someone to commiserate with about all that goes unspoken at family holiday celebrations? Come see Second City's comedy revue. Tickets: $22 adults, $11 ages 18 and younger at 630-840-2787 or www.fnal.gov/culture.

THE LEGEND OF ST. NICHOLAS, 2:30 to 5 p.m. Dec. 11, Naper Settlement, 523 S. Webster St., Naperville. Tour of the Martin Mitchell Mansion bedecked in Victorian holiday splendor, holiday refreshments and children's activities followed by The Legend of St. Nicholas presentation. Tickets: $10 adults, $8 children ages 4-17, $5 members at 630-420-6010 or www.napersettlement.museum.

KENNY ROGERS CHRISTMAS & HITS TOUR, 7:30 p.m. Dec. 13, Genesee Theatre, 203 N. Genesee St., Waukegan. Celebrate the 30th anniversary of his tour featuring a live performance of holiday classics and his biggest hits. Tickets: $39.50-$79.50 at 800-982-2787 all Ticketmaster locations or www.ticketmaster.com.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL, 8 p.m. Dec. 16; 2, 7:30 and 9 p.m. Dec. 17; and 2 p.m. Dec. 18, Improv Playhouse Theater, 735 N. Milwaukee Ave., Libertyvillle. The 1939 Orson Welle's classic staged script of Charles Dickens' story will be re-enacted by the actors of Improv Playhouse in cooperation with The GreenStick Theater Company. Advance tickets: $12.50 adults, $7.50 seniors, students and military. At the door: $15 adults, $10 seniors, students and military. Tickets and information: 847-968-4529 or www.improvplayhouse.com.

THE NUTCRACKER, 7 p.m. Dec. 17 and 2 p.m. Dec. 18, Norris Cultural Arts Center, 1040 Dunham Road, St. Charles. Tchaikovsky holiday classic presented by State Street Dance Studio of Geneva. Tickets: $22-$27 at 630-232-0444 or www.statestreetdancestudio.com.

CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY, 98th annual, 4:30 p.m. Nov. 23, Daley Plaza, Washington and Dearborn streets, Chicago. Ceremony, holiday music and special performance by cast members from "A Christmas Story, The Musical." Free. Information: 312-744-3316 or www.explorechicago.org.

UL SANTA HOUSE, Nov. 24 through Dec. 24, Daley Plaza, Washington and Dearborn streets, Chicago. Santa will be available 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 24. Santa's regular hours will be 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Fridays, Nov. 25 through Dec. 18; 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily Dec. 19-24; and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 24. Free. Information: 312-744-3316 or www.explorechicago.org/DCASE.

ZOOLIGHTS, Nov. 25 through Jan. 1, Lincoln Park Zoo, 2200 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago. Holiday classic winter wonderland featuring more than two millions lights and free seasonal festivities. Schedule: weekends Nov. 25-27; Dec. 2-4; Dec. 9-11; and nightly Dec. 16 through Jan. 1 (closed Dec. 24-25). Regular zoo hours are 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily. During ZooLights festivities the zoo is open until 9 p.m. Free admission. Paid parking available: $17-$19. Information: 312-742-2000 or www.lpzoo.org.

BUDWEISER CLYDESDALES & SANTA CLAUS, Nov. 26, Navy pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago. Schedule: noon to 2 p.m. Budweiser Clydesdales will parade down Dock Street for photo opportunities, weather permitting; 5 p.m. Santa Claus arrives by board aboard Shoreline Sightseeing. The boat will dock by Navy Pier's grand staircase, outdoors near the Ferris wheel. Information: 312-595-7437 or www.navypier.com.

WINTER WONDERFEST, 11th annual, Dec. 2 through Jan. 8, Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago. Holiday festival featuring holiday decor, music, entertainment, Chicago Blackhawks Indoor Ice Skating Rink, inflatable slides, rides and activities for all ages. Visit the website for hours and event details. Free admission. Rides and ice skating activity wristbands: $15 regular, $18 premium (includes ice skating). Information: 312-595-7437, www.navypier.com or www.winterwonderfest.com.

SANTA HUSTLE 5K, third annual, 9 a.m. Dec. 3, Montrose Harbor, 4400 Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. Holiday-themed run and walk presented by Adrenaline Sports Management. Participants receive a free Santa hat, a beard and long-sleeve Dri-Fit Santa shirt to wear during the race. There is a party after the race and ceremony. Open to the public. For registration, visit: www.santahustle.com.

DONNIE & MARIE – CHRISTMAS IN CHICAGO, Dec. 6-24, Oriental Theatre, 24 W. Randolph St., Chicago. Holiday production starring Donny and Marie Osmond. Schedule: 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays (no performance Dec. 13); 2 & 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays (no matinee Dec. 7, no evening performance Dec. 14); 7:30 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays; 2 & 8 p.m. Saturdays (no evening performance Dec. 24); 2 p.m. Sundays. There will be a 7:30 p.m. performance Dec. 19. Tickets: $37-$100 at 800-745-3000, all Ticketmaster locations or www.ticketmaster.com.

Source: http://www.nwherald.com