• Peterborough Museum, Priestgate, Peterborough, PE1 1LF
  Tel: (01733) 343329 Fax: (01733) 341928
  E-mail: museum@peterborough.gov.uk
• 10 am to 7 pm on Saturday 13 December and 12noon until 4pm on Sunday 14 December
• Free
• A fun-packed Christmas Fayre to celebrate the festive season, including live winter animals, a craft fair and a range of activities for families.
• One of the star attractions will be two live reindeer, Jingle and Belle, which will be dropping into the museum between 11 am and 4 pm on Saturday. On Sunday live Huskies will be paying a visit. Santa Claus will be in his grotto to receive requests for Christmas presents, with a charge of £2 per child to meet Santa and get an early Christmas present. Refreshments will be on offer, including a selection of mouth-watering home-made cakes. The museum will also be opening its Christmas exhibition on Saturday.

Jingle & Belle Reindeer at Museum

SANTA SPECIALS AT NENE VALLEY RAILWAY 13/12/2008 – 24/12/2008 C

• next to the A1 at Stibbington – West of Peterborough
• Your Santa experience starts with a welcome from our station staff then an enjoyable visit to Santa’s log cabin. THOMAS will be in steam around Wansford during your visit. Families then join the decorated train for a 55 minute ride to Peterborough and return. During the journey our train staff serve the children with a Thomas drink and some chocolate or sweets. Parents and other adults are given a serving of a mince pie with either an alcoholic miniature, wine or a hot drink. Santa walks through the train to see the children and to wish everyone the compliments of the season.
• FARES £10 – £19.50
• Children under 12 months of age travel FREE and receive a complimentary present when a ticket is booked for them.
• Advance Booking Essential Phone 01780 782833 or 01780 784444 – between 10am and 3pm
• Click here for more information.

CHRISTINGLE SERVICE 13/12/2008

• 3pm: Peterborough Cathedral, Peterborough PE1 1XS
• Popular service for children and families with the presentation of Christingle Candles

CHRISTMAS SPECIAL 14/12/2008

• 7.30pm, Peterborough Jazz Club
• Anita Wardell Quintet
• Tickets £15 call 01733 571764 to book
• Anita Wardell (vocals), Alex Garnett (saxophone), Robin Aspland (piano), Jeremy Brown (double bass), Steve Brown (drums)
• The fabulous Anita Wardell makes her first visit to the club with her all-star band, featuring top saxophonist Alex Garnett.

SNOW WHITE 15/12/2008 – 03/01/2009

• 

  Snow White in Peterborough

  The Cresset Theatre, Rightwell, Bretton Centre, Peterborough PE3 8DX

• A vibrant cast, exciting dance routines, fabulous sets, stunning costumes, special effects and lots action and laughter – all designed to captivate both young & old.
• We have 31 performances (including matinees, evenings and weekends) to choose from, with a wide range of great value for money ticket prices ranging from just £10.00. Call 01733 265705 to book.
• Click here for more info.

CANDLELIT CAROLS 16/12/2008

• 7.30pm: St Mary’s Church & Centre, New Road, Peterborough PE1 1TT

4 GIRLS 4 HARPS 17/12/2008

• 7.30 pm, St Mary Magdalene Church, Church Street, Stilton, Cambridgeshire, PE7 3RF, England

4 Girls 4 Harps, a professional harp quartet of four award-winning artists, are coming to Stilton village on Wednesday 17th December to give a performance by candlelight in the warm and beautiful church of St Mary Magdalene. The quartet, who have performed live on BBC Radio 2’s Friday Night is Music Night, will play their own arrangements of festive music, such as Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite, Sleigh Ride by Leroy Anderson and The Twelve Days of Christmas. The flautist Kate Osborne will join the quartet for a couple of numbers.

• Ticket Prices: £6 (£4 Concessions, free for under 16s) – Tickets available from Eleanor on 01780 766559 or on the door
• Click here for details.

KINGS SCHOOL CHRISTMAS CONCERT 17/12/2008

• 7.00pm: Peterborough Cathedral, Peterborough PE1 1XS
• The King’s School Choirs, Orchestra and Brass Band playing “traditional carols and Christmas music.

POETRY AND PIES 19/12/2008

• 7pm – 9.30pm: John Clare Theatre, Broadway, Peterborough
• Join us for an Evening of Poetry and Pies with Robin Herne, Chief Bard of the Fens, Mark Grist – Funny, must see outgoing Poet Laureate (07/08) and Stefan Allen Celtic Storyteller/Har
• Refreshments available with a free mince pie.
• Entry £4 on night.
• Click here for more information.

HANDEL’S MESSIAH 19/12/2008

• 7.00pm: Peterborough Cathedral, Peterborough PE1 1XS
• A spell binding candlelit performance of George Handel’s most famous classical work performed by Peterborough Cathedral Choir and period Orchestra Charivari Agreable. The beautiful Becket Chapel (opposite the Cathedral) will also be open from 5.00-6.30pm for homemade winter soup and hot ciabattas and wraps and discounted accommodation packages also available through the new Park Inn hotel nearby.
• Tickets available from Peterborough Tourist Information Centre:
  Front block £15, £10 (Concessions – Under 16s & Students only)
  Back block £10, £5 (Concessions – Under 16s & Students only)

STAMFORD CHORAL SOCIETY 20/12/2008

• 7.30pm: Stamford School Hall, 17 St. Pauls St, Stamford, PE9 2BE
  01780 750302‎
• Rossini Petite Messe Solennelle
• Click here for Stamford Choral Society website.

Stamford Brass

THE BIG CHRISTMAS CONCERT – STAMFORD BRASS 20/12/2008

• 7.30pm, Stamford Corn Exchange Theatre, Radcliffe Close, Stamford, PE9 1AR
• Tickets £6/5 from the Corn Exchange box office 01780 766455 sukies 01780 754829 or Stamford Arts Centre
• Click here for Stamford Brass events diary.

CHRISTINGLE 20/12/2008

• 4pm: St Mary’s Church & Centre, New Road, Peterborough PE1 1TT

CHRISTMAS EVE 24/12/2008

• Peterborough Cathedral, Peterborough PE1 1XS
• 4.00pm Service of readings & carols
• 8.00pm Carols with the Salvation Army
• 11.30pm BBC TV LIVE BROADCAST Cathedral Midnight Eucharist. Doors open 10.30pm. Please be seated by 11.00pm

CHRISTMAS DAY 25/12/2008

• Peterborough Cathedral, Peterborough PE1 1XS
• 8.00am Holy Communion (BCP)
• 10.20am BBC TV LIVE BROADCAST Sung Eucharist on Christmas Day. Please be seated by 9.50am
• 3.30pm Evensong with Procession

CHRISTMAS DAY SERVICE 25/12/2008

• 10.30am: The Westgate Church, 70 Westgate PE1 1RG
  t: 01733 311043

• York Designer Outlet, St Nicholas Avenue, Fulford, York, YO19 4TA
• The Christmas Grotto located in the North entrance will be open weekdays 1:30-5:30pm, Saturdays 11am – 6pm and Sundays 12pm – 5pm right up until Christmas Eve.
• Prices £3.25 to Visit Santa with a gift or photo, £6.00 to Visit Santa with a gift and photo
• Contact: York Designer Outlet Tel: 01904 628700
• Click here for more info.

CASTLE HOWARD AT CHRISTMAS 29/11/2008 – 21/12/2008

• 10.00am – 4.00pm: Castle Howard, York, YO60 7DA
• Yorkshire Tourist Board White Rose Winner, Visitor Experience of the Year 2007
• A unique opportunity to see Castle Howard by candlelight and dressed for Christmas. Includes yuletide entertainment, visits from Father Christmas, festive gifts and foods, plus seasonal menus.
• Prices £6.50 – £27.50
• Contact: Visitor Service Tel: 01653 648333 house@castlehoward.co.uk
• Click here for more info.

INTERNATIONAL CHRISTMAS FAYRE 03/12/2008 – 17/12/2008

• Parliament Street, York, YO1 8SE
• York welcomes a new visiting market this Christmas which will bring a modern festive atmosphere with gifts, smells and tastes from around the world. On weekdays, visit the ‘food court’, where liveried chefs will serve traditional and new continental delicacies. Into the evenings, festive illuminations from around the world will add to the ambience as shoppers can enjoy festive music, visiting pantomime characters and warming gluhwein in the shadow of the Eiffel Tower and other iconic images.
• There will be something a little special at this year’s market, ensuring a Christmas event to remember. Open daily from 9am till late. Come along and see for yourself!
• Contact: Darren Lovatt Tel: 01904 551355

DICK TURPIN THE PANTO 11/12/2008 – 31/01/2009

• 19:30: York Theatre Royal, St. Leonard’s Place, York, YO1 7HD
• Join Dame Betty Turpin, her nephew Dick, and his horse Black Mess in what promises to be the most hilarious historically incorrect pantomime you’re ever likely to see.
• Tickets: £10 – £24
• Tel: 01904 623568
• boxoffice@yorktheatreroyal.co.uk
• Click here for more information.

Jack and the Beanstalk in York

JACK AND THE BEANSTALK 12/12/2008 – 04/01/2009

• 19:00 to 22:00 14:30 to 17:00
• Full of trickery and fun, with a magical beanstalk that will grow before your very eyes, don’t miss this year’s traditional family pantomime. This brand new show features beautiful costumes plus lots of singing and dancing to enchant the whole family. The perfect festive treat, book now for the best seats. Just remember to watch out for the giant!
• Tickets: £9 – £17 Family Tickets from £37
• Contact: Grand Opera House York Tel: 0844 847 2322
• yorkboxoffice@livenation.co.uk
• Click here for more info.

ST PETER’S SCHOOL CAROL SERVICE 12/12/2008

• 14:30, Nave, York Minster, Deangate, York, YO1 7HH
• Contact: York Minster Tel: 01904 557200
• Click here for the York Minster Calendar.

GOOD KING WENCESLAS AND THE EARLY MUSIC MOVEMENT 13/12/2008

• 3pm: National Centre for Early Music, St Margarets Church, Walmgate, York, YO1 9TL
• An illustrated entertainment presented by David Owen Norris – and as man keyboards as we can lay our hands on – in the company of JM Neale, Thomas Helmore and Sir Arthur Sullivan.
• Tickets: £6.00
• Contact: National Centre for Early Music Tel: 01904 658338

N.YORKS. EAST FEDERATION WOMEN’S INSTITUTE’S CAROL SERVICE 13/12/2008

• 14:00, York Minster, Deangate, York, YO1 7HH
• North Yorkshire East Federation Women’s Institues Carol Service (Nave).
• Contact: York Minster Tel: 01904 557200
• Click here for York Minster calendar.

MINSTER MINSTRELS 14/12/2008

• 3pm: National Centre for Early Music, St Margarets Church, Walmgate, York, YO1 9TL
• Green Grow’th the Holly. Join York’s young early music ensemble, as they celebrate Christmas past through Instrumental and Vocal Music from the Middle Ages to the 18th century.
• Tickets: £3.50
• Contact: National Centre for Early Music Tel: 01904 658338

TRADITIONAL CAROL SERVICE WITH RIDING LIGHTS 14/12/2008

• 7pm: York Minster, Deangate, York, YO1 7HH
• St Michael-le-Belfrey & York Minster. Traditional Carol Service in York Minster with drama from Riding Lights Theatre Company.
• Contact: York Minster Tel: 01904 557200
• Click here for York Minster calendar.

YORK AGAINST CANCER CAROL SERVICE 15/12/2008

• 7pm: (Nave), York Minster, Deangate, York, YO1 7HH
• Contact: York Minster Tel: 01904 557200
• Click here for York Minster calendar.

DECK THE HALL: A MEDIEVAL CHRISTMAS

• Barley Hall, 2 Coffee Yard, York, YO1 8AR
• Wed 10 – Sat 13 Dec 2008 10:00 to 16:00
• Wed 17 – Sat 20 Dec 2008 10:00 to 16:00
• Visit the Hall decorated for yuletide and at 11.00am and 2.30pm hear about the festive traditions of the period.
• Adult £3 – £13.50
• Reservations Tel: 01904 615505

CANDLELIT VICTORIAN POETRY & CAROLS 18/12/2008

• 19:00 to 22:00, Bar Convent, 17 Blossom Street, York, YO24 1AQ

Come and celebrate Christmas in traditional Victorian family style. This is a fun and festive evening led by your Victorian Hostess in the bedecked Victorian Entrance Hall in of the Bar Convent. In true Victorian style we will be singing Christmas carols round the piano (led by All Saints Sixth Form Choir) and hearing seasonal poems and readings.

• Tickets: £12.50 including mulled wine and Christmas Fayre
• Contact: Lynn Gale Tel: 01904 643238 reception@bar-convent.org.uk
• Click here for the Convent events webpage.

CHAPTER HOUSE CHOIR CAROLS

• York Minster, Deangate, York, YO1 7HH
• Thu 18 Dec 2008 20:00
  Fri 19 Dec 2008 20:00
  Sat 20 Dec 2008 20:00
• Chapter House Choir Carols by Candelight (Chapter House). Tickets on sale at the West End of the Minster from 29th November 2008.
• Contact: York Minster Tel: 01904 557200
• Click here for York Minster calendar.

KOSHKA 19/12/2008

• 19:30, National Centre for Early Music, St Margarets Church, Walmgate, York, YO1 9TL

Gypsy super-trio Koshka brings a seasonal flavour from Russia. Vibrant, enthralling Gypsy music, played with outrageous bravura and a touch of wit and innovation, is interspersed with Russian tale and anecdote to give an insight into the traditions of winter and Christmas in a very different culture.

• Tickets: £12.00 (concessions £10.00; students £5.00)
• Contact: Caroline Sartin Tel: 01904 658338

Christmas at the National Railway Museum

FESTIVE FUN AT THE NATIONAL RAILWAY MUSEUM 20/12/2008 – 04/01/2009

• 10:00 to 18:00, National Railway Museum, Leeman Road, York, YO26 4XJ

Join us at the National Railway Museum for festive fun this Christmas holiday. We have got plenty going on to entertain children of all ages including help to fix Santa’s broken down sleigh, fascinating object handling sessions, interactive story telling, trackwise safety sessions and you can even create your very own glittering Christmas Bug!

• Notes Closed 24th-26th December
• Contact: National Railway Museum Tel: 08448 153 404
• Click here for more info.

YORK MINSTER NINE LESSONS AND CAROLS SERVICE

• York Minster, Deangate, York, YO1 7HH
• Mon 22 Dec 2008 19:00
• Wed 24 Dec 2008 16:00
• Contact: York Minster Tel: 01904 557216
• Click here for York Minster calendar.

YORK MINSTER: CRIB SERVICE 24/12/2008

• 12:00, York Minster, Deangate, York, YO1 7HH
• Contact: York Minster Tel: 01904 557216
• Click here for York Minster calendar.

YORK MINSTER: MIDNIGHT MASS & BLESSING OF THE CRIB 24/12/2008

• 23:30, York Minster, Deangate, York, YO1 7HH
• Please arrive early to ensure a seat, doors will open approximately 10:45pm.
• Contact: York Minster Tel: 01904 557216
• Click here for York Minster calendar.

Contents (click to go to the relevant section):

Christmas Shows

Christmas Fairs

Christmas Activities

Christmas Concerts

Christmas Church Services

Christmas Shows

OTELLO – WELSH NATIONAL OPERA 05/12/2008

• 

  Welsh National Opera - Otello

  7.15pm: New Theatre, George Street, Oxford, OX1 2AG

• This tragic work charts the downfall of the noble Moorish General Otello – who loses everything he loves, including his own sanity, through the envy, ambition, duplicity and hatred of his lieutenant Iago. This calculating villain ensnares Otello’s wife Desdemona and convinces him of her infidelity – resulting in tragedy.
• £15.00 – £49.50
• Sung in Italian with English subtitles
• Pre-performance talk on Tues 2 Dec at 6.15pm in Wesley Memorial Church.
• Click here for more details.

SLEEPING BEAUTY 06/12/2008 – 18/01/2009

• Various times: Oxford Playhouse Theatre, Beaumont Street, Oxford, UK OX1 2LW
• Box Office 01865 305305
• Sleeping Beauty will take you on an enchanting journey of dashing princes, evil witches and dastardly curses. You’ll meet good fairies, bad fairies, kings, queens and princesses and be swept along on a rollercoaster of hilarious comedy, gorgeous costumes and sleeping bags full of fun for all the family.
• Tickets from £10.50

Christmas Fairs

CONTEMPORARY CRAFT SHOW AT THE BARN AT THE GREEN 06/12/2008 – 07/12/2008

• 10:00 to 17:00: The Barn at the Green, Barn in lane adjacent to 12 The Green, Cuddesdon, Wheatley, Oxfordshire, OX44 9JZ
• Come and choose from an exciting range of contemporary arts and crafts all by local artists and craftsmen. Jessica Knott – handwoven silk scarves, Ewa Exley – felt textiles, Ann Collinson – hand built ceramics, Sarah Dearling – stone carving, Mark Austin – woodwork, Clare Wratten – silver jewellery, Heather Power – fused and kiln formed glass, Grace Exley – drawings, Jane Hanson – Pottery.
• Mince pies and mulled wine available.
• Free entry
• sarah.dearling@smoothstone.myzen.co.uk

CHRISTMAS MARKET AT GLOUCESTER GREEN 10/12/2008 – 13/12/2008

• Gloucester Green, Oxford, OX1
• Free entry
• Also, every Wednesday 9am – 3pm
• Contact Peter Chilton Tel: 01865 252133

Christmas Shows

THAT’LL BE THE DAY CHRISTMAS SHOW 13/12/2008

• 7.30pm: New Theatre, George Street, Oxford, OX1 2AG
• Join in and treat yourself to an early Christmas pressie and celebrate the festive season with all those Christmas hits from the 1950s, 60s, 70s and 80’s mixed with feel good comedy.
• £15.00 – £21.50
• Click here for more information.

FLASHDANCE THE MUSICAL 15/12/2008 – 03/01/2009

• New Theatre, George Street, Oxford, OX1 2AG

Set in Pittsburgh, USA, FLASHDANCE The Musical tells the story of 18 year old Alex, a welder by day and “flashdance” by night, whose dream is to obtain a place at the prestigious Shipley Dance Academy.

• £11.50 – £30.00
• Click here for more information.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL AT OFS STUDIO 16/12/2008 – 20/12/2008

• OFS Studio, 40 George Street, Oxford, OX1 2AQ
• ‘Marley was dead to begin with….’ BMH bring a new adaptation of Dickens work to the OFS Studio for one week only! Ebenezer Scrooge is an old miser, with a cold heart and a dislike of humanity. It takes the actions of three spirits one Christmas Eve to change his life, forever!
• £8.00 – £10.00
• Click here for more information.

Christmas Activities

ADVENT WEEKEND AT COGGES MANOR FARM MUSEUM 06/12/2008 – 07/12/2008

• 11:00 to 16:00: Cogges Manor Farm Museum, Church Lane, Witney, Oxfordshire, OX28 3LA

Delight in the Manor House dressed for Christmas with traditional evergreen decorations, listen to carols while sampling hot mince pies. Make sugar mice or fairy peg dolls and Christmas gifts to buy. Enjoy a visit from Santa.

• Click here for more information.
• The Manager: Tel: 01993 772602

CHRISTMAS GROTTO AT TEMPLARS SQUARE 06/12/2008 – 24/12/2008

• Templars Square, Templars Square, Cowley, Oxford, OX4 3XH
• There will also be free ‘life size’ fairground rides and attractions, free face painting, and a fantastic free to enter Wizard of Oz competition for children to take part in. In addition to our fantastic Christmas Grotto, there will also be free face painting, and even more free entertainment on the 6th, 13th, 20th, 22nd, and 23rd December, and on Christmas Eve, we’re giving away free candy floss, pop corn, and chocolate apples!
• Dates and Times Dates Times
• Sat 6 Dec 2008 10:00 to 16:00
  Sun 7 Dec 2008 11:00 to 15:00
  Sat 13 Dec 2008 10:00 to 16:00
  Sun 14 Dec 2008 11:00 to 15:00
  Sat 20 Dec 2008 10:00 to 16:00
  Sun 21 Dec 2008 11:00 to 15:00
  Mon 22 – Wed 24 Dec 2008 10:00 to 16:00
• Templars Square: Tel: 01865 748864
• Click here for more details.

CHRISTMAS TRAINS AT LEIGHTON BUZZARD NARROW GAUGE RAILWAY 06/12/2008 – 24/12/2008

• 

  Santa on a Steam Train

  Leighton Buzzard Narrow Gauge Railway, Page’s Park Station, Billington Road, Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire, IU7 4TN

  A 25-minute ride in a festively decorated steam train, along a unique narrow-gauge railway that is almost 90 years old. A thrilling walk through the Magic Tunnel to meet Santa, where children will receive a quality present.

• Seasonal refreshments for all in the friendly atmosphere of the station buffet.
• Adult £7.00 Child (aged 2 to 15 years) £7.00 Child (under 2 years) £3.00
• Sat 6, Sun 7 Dec 2008
  Wed 10 Dec 2008
  Sat 13, Sun 14 Dec 2008
  Wed 17 Dec 2008
  Sat 20, Sun 21 Dec 2008
  Wed 24 Dec 2008
• Booking Line (UK Only) Tel: 08444 77 1000
• www.buzzrail.co.uk

CHRISTMAS WONDERLAND AT NOTCUTTS GARDEN CENTRE 06/12/2008 – 21/12/2008

• Notcutts Garden Centre, Nuneham Courtney, Oxfordshire, OX44 9PY
• Customers travel for miles to enjoy the Notcutts Christmas Wonderland, a magical profusion of lights, colours and sounds that can make children of us all at this time of year. Familiar Christmas characters (Santa himself visits at the weekends running up to Christmas) are present in a variety of guises.
• Free entry
• Sat 6, Sun 7 Dec 2008
  Sat 13, Sun 14 Dec 2008
  Sat 20, Sun 21 Dec 2008
• Notcutts Tel: 01865 343454 oxford@notcutts.co.uk
• Click here for more info.

DAY OUT WITH THOMAS & SANTA AT BUCKINGHAMSHIRE RAILWAY CENTRE 06/12/2008 – 07/12/2008

• Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, Quainton Road Station, Quainton, Nr Aylesbury, Bucks, HP22 4BY
• Last December, children from far and wide descended into the sleepy village of Quainton to visit the Buckinghamshire Railway Centre. A magical day was had by all that attended with fantastic entertainment and the opportunity to meet Father Christmas aboard his little blue steam engine.
• Prices start at £11.00 per person (all inclusive)
• Sat 6, Sun 7 Dec 2008 10:30 to 16:30
  Sat 13, Sun 14 Dec 2008 10:30 to 16:30
• Railway Tel: 01296 655720
• Click here for more information.

‘THREE DECEMBER SATURDAYS’ 06/12/2008 – 20/12/2008

• Oxford City Centre, Oxford, OX1 3HY
• OX1’s promotion of Oxford shopping for Christmas, featuring street entertainers, Christmas street ambassadors, in-store events, and a handy guide to Oxford at Christmas.
• Free entry
• Sat 6 Dec 200, Sat 13 Dec 2008, Sat 20 Dec 2008

SANTA’S GROTTO AT OXFORD CASTLE 07/12/2008 – 16/12/2008

• Noon: Oxford Castle, The Treadwheel, 43 Oxford Castle, Oxford, OX1 1AY
• Santa’s Grotto at Oxford Castle!
• £2.00
• Sun 7 – Tue 9 Dec 2008 12:00 to 18:00
• Sun 14 – Tue 16 Dec 2008 12:00 to 18:00
• Oxford Castle Tel: 01865 201657
• Click here for more information.

SEARCHING FOR THE YETI AT SCIENCE OXFORD 09/12/2008

• 

  Searching for the Yeti

  19:30 to 21:00: Science Oxford, 1-5 London Place, St Clements, Oxford, OX4 1BD

  Could the Abominable Snowman really be out there? Could the Yeti really exist, or is it just a popular legend? Anthropologist and primate expert, Dr Anna Nekaris, will be explaining how you find unknown animals, looking at examples of new species of primate still being discovered today, and exploring the likelihood of the Yeti’s existence. She will also bring us up-to-date with recent research into unidentified hairs reportedly taken from a Yeti-like creature in India.

• £3.00
• Science Oxford Tel: 01865 728953
• Click here for more information.

CHRISTMAS LECTURE AT SCIENCE OXFORD 10/12/2008

• 18:30 to 20:30: Science Oxford, 1-5 London Place, St Clements, Oxford, OX4 1BD

To celebrate the festive season and to coincide with our hosting of Shell Wildlife Photographer of the Year, Nick Baker will deliver the Science Oxford Christmas Lecture. Whether beetles or Brown bears, millipedes or Mountain Gorillas, snails or sharks, Nick Baker is the natural choice of guide.

• Tickets cost £5 for adults and £3 for children; SO Friends go free.
• Contact Science Oxford Tel: 01865 728953
• Click here for more info.

CHRISTMAS FAMILY FUN AT BLACKWELL’S BOOKSHOP 13/12/2008

• Blackwell’s Bookshop, 53 Broad Street, Oxford, OX1 3BQ
• This will feature an array of fun and entertainment including an appearance by Korky Paul who will be treating children to storytelling, drawing and workshops.

CHRISTMAS CRAFT CREATIONS 23/12/2008

• Museum of Oxford, St Aldate’s, Oxford, OX1 1DZ
• Make some last minute Christmas crafts to decorate your home. Suitable for 5 to 12 year olds. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
• Prices £2.00
• 10:30 to 11:30 14:00 to 15:00
• Museum of Oxford Tel: 01865 252761
• What’s On at the Museum of Oxford

Christmas Concerts

FESTIVE MUSICAL ENTERTAINMENT AT BLENHEIM PALACE 05/12/2008 – 14/12/2008

• 

  Blenheim Palace

  Fri 5 Dec 11:00
  Sun 7 Dec 14:00
  Fri 12 – Sun 14 Dec 11:00 14:00

• Friday 5th December: Our Ladies Junior School Choir will sing in the Long Library from 11am
• Sunday 7th December 2pm Long Library: The Blenheim Singers return for the festive season with a wonderful performance of Handel’s Messiah accompanied by a small Baroque consort. Seated tickets are available at £5 per person, please call 01993 811091 to book.
• 12th – 14th December: Carol singing and a silver band performing in the Long Library. The Marlborough School will sing on the 12th from 11am, with Cranford House singing on the 13th at 11am, and The Oxford Silver Band play festive favourites in the afternoon. On the 14th, Daneshill School choir will sing carols in the Long Library at 11am, and The Oxford Silver Band will play festive favourites from 2pm as the season draws to a close.
• Palace, Park & Garden prices apply for a full fixture.

CRANFORD CHORAL SOCIETY – HANDEL’S MESSIAH AT DORCHESTER ABBEY 06/12/2008

• 7.30pm: Dorchester Abbey, High Street, Dorchester-on-Thames, Wallingford, Oxon, OX10 7HH

Come and hear popular local choir Cranford Chroral Society sing Handel’s Messiah in the exquisitely atmospheric surroundings of Dorchester Abbey, accompanied by the St. Giles Orchestra from Oxford. A great way to start the Christmas season.

• £10 (£7.50/£5 concessions)
• Ticket Office Tel: 01865 305305

AGE CONCERN OXFORDSHIRE CAROL CONCERT 09/12/2008

• 

  Christ Church, Oxford

  2pm: Christ Church, St Aldate’s, Oxford, OX1 1DP

  Age Concern Oxfordshire invites all older people, their families and carers to a carol service at Christ Church Cathedral at 2pm on Tuesday 9th December in the presence of The Bishop of Ebbsfleet, Rt Revd Andrew Burnham.

• Free entry
• Contact Kerry Bateman Tel: 01235 849400 kerrybateman@ageconcernoxon.org.uk

CHRISTMAS AT CHRIST CHURCH 17/12/2008 & 20/12/2008

• Doors 7.30pm: Christ Church, St Aldate’s, Oxford, OX1 1DP
• Christ Church Cathedral Choir, Jean Marsh Reader, Robert Hardy Reader (Saturday Only), Victoria Davies Harp
• This evening of uplifting music and thoughtful readings will inspire and invigorate you for the whole Christmas period. Very special guests Robert Hardy and Jean Marsh bring to life some of the best Christmas poetry and prose to reflect and to amuse as well as a beautiful selection of choral gems performed by the celestial Christ Church Cathedral Choir.
• £10 – £40, discounts available. No admittance to Under 6’s.
• Booking Office Tel: 01865 305305

OXFORD BACH CHOIR – CAROL CONCERT 19/12/2008

• 7.30pm: Sheldonian Theatre, Broad Street, Oxford, OX1 3AZ
• Conductor: Timothy Byram-Wigfield
• Click here for event page.

HANDEL MESSIAH 20/12/2008

• 7.30pm: Sheldonian Theatre, Broad Street, Oxford, OX1 3AZ
• Handel’s masterpiece, under the insightful direction of Marios Papadopolous, is a not-to-be-missed highlight of the Christmas season.
• Prices £37/£26/£17.50/£10 (Concessions Available)
• Ticket Office Tel: 01865 305305

LORD MAYORS CAROL CONCERT 21/12/2008

• 14:30 to 16:30: Oxford Town Hall, Oxford City Council, St Aldates, Oxford, OX1 1DZ
• Must be seated by 2.15pm. Tickets available from Oxford Town Hall from 1st December 2008.
• The Lord Mayors Sectretary Tel: 01865 249811 management@oxford.gov.uk

CHRISTMAS ARIAS ON ICE 21/12/2008 & 22/12/2008

• Oxford Ice Rink, Oxpens Road, Oxford, OX1 1RX
• Arias, songs and carols.
• Prices £12.50/£10/£5
• Sun 21, Mon 22 Dec 2008 17:30 20:30
• Click here for event page.

A CANDLELIT CHRISTMAS CONCERT 23/12/2008

• 8pm: St John’s College, St Giles, Oxford, OX1 3JP
• A Candlelit Christmas Concert with Liedertafel vocal ensemble and Colin Dexter (creator of Inspector Morse) – reader.
• Tickets £10.00
• Click here for more information.

Christmas Church Services

INTERNATIONAL ADVENT CAROL SERVICE 07/12/2008

• 6pm: St Mary the Virgin Church, High Street, Oxford, OX1 4AH
• Free entry
• Click here for more info.

ADVENT 2 07/12/2008

• Dorchester Abbey, Oxfordshire
• 8.00 am Holy Communion (1662) (Canon Sue Booys)
• 10.15 am Morning Service
• (Canon Sue Booys; preacher Revd Bob Whorton, Chaplain from Sobell House)
• 2.30 pm Reflections service for bereaved parents

ADVENT 3 14/12/2008

• Dorchester Abbey, Oxfordshire
• 8.00 am Holy Communion (1662) (Revd Richard Miller)
• 10.00 am Sung Eucharist (Canon Sue Booys)
• 3.00 pm St John’s Ambulance Carol Service

CHRISTMAS SERVICE OF NINE LESSONS AND CAROLS 21/12/2008

• 6pm: St Mary the Virgin Church, High Street, Oxford, OX1 4AH
• Festival of 9 lessons and carols sung by St Mary’s choir
• Church Tel: 01865 279111
• Click here for more info.

ADVENT 4 21/12/2008

• Dorchester Abbey, Oxfordshire
• 8.00 am Holy Communion (1662) (Canon Sue Booys)
• 10.15 am Holy Communion with hymns (Canon Sue Booys)
• 6.00 pm Lessons and Carols (Canon Sue Booys)

CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS SERVICE 22/12/2008

• 4pm: Saint Michael at the North Gate, Church Tower, Cornmarket, Oxford, OX1 3EY
• … complete with donkey who will be meeting the public in cornmarket about an hour beforehand.

CHRISTMAS CRIB SERVICE 24/12/2008

• 16:30: St Mary the Virgin Church, High Street, Oxford, OX1 4AH
• Free entry
• Click here for more info

CHRISTMAS EVE 24/12/2008

• Dorchester Abbey, Oxfordshire
• 4.30 pm Crib Service (Canon Sue Booys)
• 11.30 pm Midnight Mass (Canon Sue Booys, Preacher: David Gifford)

MIDNIGHT MASS 24/12/2008

• 23:30: St Mary the Virgin Church, High Street, Oxford, OX1 4AH
• Free entry
• Click here for more info

MIDNIGHT MASS AT NEW COLLEGE 24/12/2008

• 11:30: New College, Holywell Street, Oxford, OX1 3BN

New College has one of the most beautiful chapels in Oxford and one of the finest choir schools. The college has no Christmas services after the end of the university term in early December, so one of the few chances the public has to hear Christmas carols in the college is during this service at 11.30pm on Christmas Eve.

• Free entry
• Contact Tel: 01865 279555
• New College Midnight Mass webpage.

CHRISTMAS DAY 25/12/2008

• Dorchester Abbey, Oxfordshire
• 8.00 am Holy Communion (1662) (Canon Sue Booys)
• 10.15 am Christmas Family Communion (Canon Sue Booys)

CHRISTMAS DAY EUCHARIST 25/12/2008

• 10:30: St Mary the Virgin Church, High Street, Oxford, OX1 4AH
• Free entry
• Click here for more info

CHRISTMAS IS… MAGICAL 25/11/2008 – 01/01/2009

• Babbacombe Theatre, Babbacombe Downs, Torquay, Devon TQ1 3LU Box Office 01803 328 385 Email info@babbacombe-theatre.co.uk
• Various times, some dates sold out.
• Christmas wouldn’t be half as much fun without the obligatory ‘Singalong’ and this show promises some true yuletide favourites this season as well as some ‘Panto peeps’ to ensure the Spirit of Christmas is served in abundance, at the Babbacombe Theatre.
• Tickets £8- £15
• Click here for more information.

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING FAYRE 28/11/2008 – 30/11/2008

• Westpoint Centre, Clyst St Mary, Exeter, Devon
• Start Date: Friday 28th November, 2008 9:30am
• End Date: Sunday 30th November, 2008 5:30am
• All your festive shopping under one roof! Almost 300 exhibitors offering an enormous selection of wonderful gift ideas and essential Christmas items! Leading Retailers, Manufacturers, Craftspeople, Wholesalers and Importers from far and wide. Free food & drink tastings, demonstrations, free Santa’s Grotto. Free parking. Admission £3.00, oaps £2.00 kids free.
• Tickets: 01271 378000 or click here.

CHRISTMAS GIFT FAIR 28/11/2008

• 7pm – 9pm: Chaddlewood School, Hemerdon Heights, Plymouth, Devon
• In aid of Chaddlewood Preschool, we are holding a Christmas Gift & Craft Fair. Come along and do your Christmas shopping we have lots of stalls offering all types of gifts for you from chocolate gifts to wooden toys.
• Tickets: Telephone: 01752337450

PADDY MCGUINNESS 28/11/2008

• 8pm: Home Park Stadium, Plymouth Argyle FC, Plymouth, Devon
• Tickets: 084514614460 boxoffice@plymouthpavilions.com

TASS CHRISTMAS FAIR 2008 29/11/2008

• 9:30am – 15:00: Anchorage Centre, Tavistock, Plymouth, Devon
• Tavistock Area Support Services

CHRISTMAS FAIR 29/11/2008

• 10:00am: St Thomas Parish Church, Cowick Street, Exeter, Devon
• Tickets: 01392 493812

CHRISTMAS FAYRE 29/11/2008

• 10am – Noon: Assembly Room, Methodist Central Hall, Plymouth City Centre, Plymouth, Devon
• Stalls includes cake, ball gowns etc

CHRISTMAS FAYRE 29/11/2008

• 10am – 2pm: Woodford Methodist Community Church Hall, Greenway Avenue, Plympton, Plymouth, Devon

CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL 29/11/2008

• 10am – 9pm: SS Nicholas & Faith Church, Alexandra Square, Saltash, Saltash, Cornwall
• A spectacular display of lit and decorated Christmas trees representing many of the towns clubs, group and societies

CHRISTMAS BAZAAR 29/11/2008

• 10am – 1pm: The Church Of The Holy Spirit Hall, CLITTAFORD ROAD, SOUTHWAY, PLYMOUTH, DEVON
• Christmas Bazaar with bumper raffle, cake stall, refreshments, toiletries, book stall, other stalls, entertainment by school children, etc. Admission 20p.

CHRISTMAS FAIR 29/11/2008

• 11am: Brixington Primary School, Exmouth, Exeter, Devon

CHRISTMAS FAYRE 29/11/2008

• 11am – 1.30pm: St John’s Church, Totnes, Totnes, Devon

FESTIVE FALCONRY & CHRISTMAS SHOPPING WEEKEND 29/11/2008 – 30/11/2008

• 11am – 4pm: Pendennis Castle, Pendenis Headland, Falmouth, Cornwall
• Join Raphael Falconry for this special falconry event based around the theme of Christmas and how medieval huntsmen contributed to the supply of banquest food. Children can have some festive fun seeking out the playful reindeer clues who are hidden around the castle in the reindeer trail.
• Click here for more information.

CHRISTMAS FAYRE 29/11/2008

• 12:00pm – 15:00: Emmanuel Church Hall, Mannadmead Road, Plymouth, Devon

CHRISTMAS BAZAAR 29/11/2008

• 1pm: St Thomas Church Hall, Keyham, Plymouth, Devon

TOAD HALL PRE-SCHOOL CHRISTMAS BAZAAR 29/11/2008

• 1:30pm – 15:30: St Gabriel’s Church Hall, Hyde Park Road, Peverell, Plymouth, Devon

CHRISTMAS BAZAAR 29/11/2008

• 2pm: St James’ Church Hall, Mount Pleasant Road, Exeter, Exeter, Devon

CHRISTMAS CARFT FAIR 30/11/2008

• 10am: Parish Hall, Witheridge, Devon

CHRISTMAS FAYRE 30/11/2008

• 8:00am – 12:00: Pollyfield Centre, Avon road, Bideford East, Devon
• Every Sunday to Christmas in the warm Pollyfield centre, Bideford east, from 08.00hrs until 11.30hrs large Tables provided.
• Sellers £4.00 per table, buyers 30p entry.

EDUCATING CHARLIE 02/12/2008

• 12.45pm to 2.30pm: Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery, Community Services, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AJ

Enjoy this highly entertaining and informative one man show by Lloyd Lee as he puts the great Charles Dickens into context. 2008 marks the 150th anniversary of him visiting Plymouth to conduct a reading.

• Free festive refreshments will be served after his performance and there will be a 15 minute interval at approximately 1.30pm.
• Admission is free but advance booking is required on 01752 304774.
• Contact: 01752 304774 Email: museum@plymouth.gov.uk

MORICE TOWN COMMUNITY FORUM CHRISTMAS SINGALONG & FAYRE 03/12/2008

• 5.30pm: Primary School/Salvation Army Hall, Charlotte Street/Balfour Terrace, Morice Town, Plymouth, Devon
• Singalong in Primary School followed by Fayre in Salvation Army Hall

Christmas Tree Festival, Crediton

6th CREDITON PARISH CHURCH CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL 04/12/2008 – 06/12/2008

• 11am – 6pm: Crediton Parish Church, Church Lane, Crediton, Devon
• 50 plus decorated and illuminated Christmas trees will fill the church. Trees decorated by a mix of local charities, groups, individuals and organisations. Trees 6, 8 and 10 foot high plus one 20 foot plus at the high altar.
• Free admision and parking. Stalls and refreshments. Guided tours. Tel 01363 772865
• http://www.creditonparishchurch.org.uk/Christmas.html

CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL 04/12/2008 – 06/12/2008

• 11am: Parish Church, Church Road, Plympton St Maurice, Plymouth, Devon

CHRISTMAS MARPOOL MARKET 05/12/2008

• 6pm, Marpool Primary School, Moorfield Road, Exmouth, Exeter, Devon

WHITESTAR CHRISTMAS PARTY 2008 05/12/2008

• Pavilions, Home Park Stadium, Plymouth Argyle FC, Plymouth, Devon
• Tickets: 084514614460, boxoffice@plymouthpavilions.com

CHRISTMAS FAYRE 06/12/2008

• St Mary’s Parish Centre, Market Road, Plympton, Plymouth, Devon

HAPPY CHRISTMAS ART 06/12/2008

• 10:00am – 16:00: Contemporary Art Gallery, 54 High Street, Totnes, Totnes, Devon
• Art under £500 plus ceramics and jewellery for the festive season

CHRISTMAS FAIR 06/12/008

• 10:00am: The Devon Guild of Craftsmen, Riverside Mill, Bovey Tracey, Exeter, Devon
• Tickets: 01626 832223

CHRISTMAS FAYRE 06/12/2008

• 10am: Church of the Ascension Hall, Crownhill, Plymouth, Devon

CHRISTMAS FAIR 06/12/2008 – 07/12/2008

• 10:30am – 4pm: Trevarno Estate & Gardens, Crowntown, nr Helston, Helston, Cornwall
• Gifts, stocking-fillers and festive treats, the ultimate traditional shopping experience, with over 100 stall holders in a specially erected marquee on the great lawn
• Tickets: 07886 785 986/07740 410052

CHRISTMAS FAIR 06/12/2008

• 11am Village Hall, St Ewe
• Tickets: 01726 64868

CHRISTMAS FAIR 06/12/2008

• 11am: St Paul’s Church, Church Street, Tiverton, Devon

MILLBRIDGE CHRISTMAS FAYRE 06/12/2008

• 11:00am – 16:00: Stoke Damerel Church Hall, Paradise Road, Stoke, Plymouth, Devon

THE LITTLE RED HEN & FRANKENSTEIN 06/12/2008

• 11am: Drum Theatre, Royal Parade, Plymouth
• The Little Red Hen, 11am & 3pm; Frankenstein, 7.45pm
• Tickets: 01752 267222

CHRISTMAS TALES 06/12/2008 – 07/12/2008

• 11am: Pendennis Castle – English Heritage, Pendenis Headland, Falmouth, Cornwall
• Join our resident storyteller for tall Christmas tales in the castle keep. Plus find the palyful reindeers models that are hiding around the castle to complete the ‘Reindeers Trail’.
• www.english-heritage.org.uk/pendennis

‘A TASTE OF CHRISTMAS’ 06/12/2008

• 2:30pm: URC Church, Old Pinn Lane, Pinhoe, Exeter, Devon

CHRISTMAS FAYRE 06/12/2008

• 2.30pm: Community Hall, Plymstock, Plymouth, Devon

PLYMOUTH PHILHARMONIC CHOIR 06/12/2008

• 7pm: St Andrew’s Church, Royal Parade, Plymouth, Devon
• Handel’s Messiah

ASHBURTON SINGERS 06/12/2008

• 7.30pm: St Luke’s Church, Torquay
• Advent music
• Tickets: 01803 213806

BRIXHAM ORPHEUS MALE VOICE CHOIR 06/12/2008

• 7.30pm: Fore Street Methodist Church, Brixham
• Sing Christmas with the Riviera Singers

ROYAL MARINES CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR 06/12/2008

• 7.30pm: Princess Theatre, Torbay Road, Torquay, Devon
• Tickets: 08702 41 41 20 steve.gillon@livenation.co.uk
• Click here for more information.

BLUES NIGHT CHRISTMAS SPECIAL 06/12/2008

• 8pm: The Wharf, Tavistock, Tavistock, Devon
• Tickets: 01822 611166

WOOFERS CHRISTMAS DAY OUT FAMILY DOG SHOW 07/12/2008

• 11:30am – 18:00: Geffery Memorial Hall, Landrake, Nr Saltash, Cornwall
• Come and enjoy some Christmas fun with your dogs at our show. Judging starts at 1.00pm, 20 fun classes something for all. Get you thinking caps on for something different for our ever popular fancy dress class. There are rosettes from 1st-6th place.
• Refreshments & Raffle. Proceeds to Canine Crusaders.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL 08/12/2008 – 13/12/2008

• 7.30pm: Exeter Drama Company, Alphington Hall, Alphington, Exeter, Devon
• A Christmas Carol – play based on Charkes Dickens loved book. The play is being performed on Mon 8, Tues 9 and Thur 11 and Sat 13 Dec 2008.
• Tickets £6.
• Click here for more information.

XMAS TEA DANCE WITH WALLY 09/12/2008

• Methodist Church Hall, Ivybridge, Plymouth, Devon

CHRISTMAS AT THE MUSEUM 09/12/2008

• 11:30am: The Museum, Barton Terrace, Dawlish, Exeter, Devon
• Tickets: 01626 888557

TAVISTOCK MUSICAL THEATRE COMPANY CHRISTMAS SHOW 10/12/2008 – 11/12/2008

• 7.30pm: The Wharf, Tavistock, Tavistock, Devon
• Tickets: 01822 611166

TAMAR CHRISTMAS CONCERT 11/12/2008

• 7pm: St Peter’s Church, Ugborough, Plymouth, Devon
• Tickets: 01752 691654

16th INTERNATIONAL CONCERT SERIES: DAVID WILSON – HARP 11/12/2008

• 1pm: Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery, Community Services, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AJ

David Watkins, one of the world’s great harpists, touches the strings of the soul. His programme will include the composers Watkins, Cardon and Mozart.

• Tickets £6.50
• Contact: 01752 304774 Email: museum@plymouth.gov.uk

CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL 12/12/2008 – 13/12/2008

• 10am – 6pm: Holy Cross Church, Newton Ferrers, Plymouth, Devon
• Christmas Tree Festival, in aid of Precious Lives (the new building for Children’s Hospice South West.

ANGELS AND STARS 13/12/2008

• Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery, Community Services, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AJ
• 10.30am, 11am, 11.30am, 1.30pm, 2pm and 2.30pm

Join in with our 30 minute Christmas workshops and create your own art, inspired by the nativity painting in our Cottonian Collection.

• Admission free, no need to book.
• Contact: 01752 304774 Email: museum@plymouth.gov.uk

SANTA’S CRYSTAL GROTTO AND CHRISTMAS GIFT FAIR 13/12/2008 – 17/12/2008

• Town Hall & Bedford Square, Tavistock, Tavistock, Devon
• During the event the Town Hall and Bedford Square will be taken over by a complete Christmas shopping and entertainment experience open to everyone. Every day in the Town Hall there will be a gift fair supplying high quality products and gifts, whilst outside there will be unique and exciting events, including “Santa Comes To Town”

CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS PARTY 13/12/2008

• 3pm: The Royal Oak, Nadderwater, Whitestone, Exeter, Devon

Royal Marines Christmas Spectacular

ROYAL MARINES CHRISTMAS CONCERT 13/12/2008o

• 7.30pm: Pavilions, Home Park Stadium, Plymouth Argyle FC, Plymouth, Devon
• Tickets: 084514614460 boxoffice@plymouthpavilions.com
• Tickets £13.50 – £15.50
• Click here for more information.

UNIVERSITY OF PLYMOUTH CHORAL SOCIETY CHRISTMAS CONCERT 13/12/2008

• 7.30pm: St Andrew’s Church, Royal Parade, Plymouth, Devon

A DICKENSIAN CHRISTMAS 13/12/2008

• 8pm: Trematon Hall, Trematon, nr Saltash, Trematon, Cornwall
• Tickets: 01752 843073

NADELIK 0 A CORNISH CHRISTMAS 14/12/2008

• 11:00am – 16:00: Pendennis Castle – English Heritage, Pendenis Headland, Falmouth, Cornwall
• Join us to celebrate Christmas the Cornish way. Expect mince pies & mulled drinks, Christmas lights, carol and traditional singers & dance and possibly even the sound of sleigh bellis in the distance.
• The Nadelik page at Pendennis.

CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL 14/12/2008

• 12:00pm – 16:30: Holy Cross Church, Newton Ferrers, Plymouth, Devon
• In aid of Precious Lives (the new building for Children’s Hospice South Wes)

CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL 14/12/2008

• 12:00pm – 17:30: Holy Cross Church, Newton Ferrers, Plymouth, Devon
• In aid of Precious Lives Campaign

MUTLEY BAPTIST CHURCH 14/12/2008

• Mutley Baptist Church, Mutley Plain, Plymouth PL4 6LB
• 10.30am: A traditional ‘Christingle’ service
• 6.30pm: Carol Singing
• +44 (0) 1752 203346 office@mutleybaptist.co.uk

UNIVERSITY OF PLYMOUTH CAROL SERVICE 16/12/2008

• 7.30pm: St Mathias Church, St Mathias Church Hall, Wellswood, Torquay, Devon
• Tickets: 20p entry

Cinderella

CINDERELLA 19/12/2008 – 24/01/2009

• 7pm: Theatre Royal, Derry’s Cross, Plymouth
• Lesley Joseph as The Fairy Godmother. From the Basil Brush Show, Laura Evans as Cinderella. Back by popular demand Matt Slack as Buttons. Also featuring the amazing flying pegasus.
• Click here for more details.

CHRISTMAS EVENING CONCERT WITH BURATON MALE VOICE CHOIR 19/12/2008

• 7.15pm: Burraton Methodist Church, Saltash, Saltash, Cornwall

SAIL WITH SANTA 20/12/2008 – 21/12/2008

• 11am – 3.30pm: Stuart Line Cruises, Exmouth Marina, Exmouth, Devon
• Sail the Exe Estuary with Santa Claus aboard his festively decorated boat. All children visit Santa in his grotto and received a good present, squash and biscuit. All adults enjoy and commentary on the river and its wildlife, hot mulled wine and warm mince pies.
• 

  Santa on the Exe

  Sailing at 11am, 12.30pm, 2pm and 3.30pm only.

• Advanced Booking is Essential to ensure Santa has all the presents wrapped in time. All tickets £6.00 Stuart Line Cruises 01395 279693 Tickets: 01395 222144 info@stuartlinecruises.co.uk

COOL CREATURES 20/12/2008

• 1.30pm to 5pm: Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery, Community Services, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AJ
• Spend a day with the Wild About Plymouth team finding out about life in the freezer!
• Enjoy a free screening of ‘Happy Feet’ from 1.30pm to 3pm (limited places). Then discover some of the creatures that thrive in freezing temperatures from giant isopods to extinct mammoth fossils from the last ice age.
• Admission is free.
• Booking is required for the film screening only. Please call 01752 304774 by Friday 5 December.
• There is no need to book for the activities from 3pm.
• Contact: 01752 304774 Email: museum@plymouth.gov.uk

NIGHT FEVER 20/12/2008

• 7:30pm: Babbacombe Theatre, Babbacombe Downs, Torquay, Devon TQ1 3LU
• Box Office 01803 328 385 Email info@babbacombe-theatre.co.uk
• Tickets £6 – £10
• Click here for more information.

CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION 21/12/2008

• 4pm: Tothill Community Centre, Knighton Road, St Judes, Plymouth PL4 9DA

MUTLEY BAPTIST CHURCH 21/12/2008

• 6.30pm: Mutley Baptist Church, Mutley Plain, Plymouth PL4 6LB
• Carols by Candlelight – Candlelight and carols with a contemporary twist.
• +44 (0) 1752 203346 office@mutleybaptist.co.uk

CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT 21/12/2008

• 6pm: St Jude’s Church, Beaumont Road, Plymouth, Devon PL4 9BJ
• An evening of carol’s to celebrate the entry into Christmas with festive refreshments!

DICK WHITTINGTON & HIS CAT 22/12/2008

• 3pm: Babbacombe Theatre, Babbacombe Downs, Torquay, Devon TQ1 3LU
• Box Office 01803 328 385 Email info@babbacombe-theatre.co.uk
• With a brand new cast, flamboyant costumes, and a script based on a true story this years panto offering at is bound to be a sure fire hit with all the family. Whilst incorporating all the traditional panto favourites like the ghost gag and the song sheet, Dick Whittington will have the audiences tapping there feet to some of the latest songs to hit the charts as well as howling at the mad cap antics of Dick and his faithful feline friend Slater the Cat.
• Tickets £7 – £12

SING CHRISTMAS WITH RADIO DEVON 22/12/2008

• 7.05pm: Tothill Community Centre, Knighton Road, St Judes, Plymouth PL4 9DA

MUTLEY BAPTIST CHURCH 24/12/2008

• 11.15 pm: Mutley Baptist Church, Mutley Plain, Plymouth PL4 6LB
• Christmas Eve – Midnight Service.
• +44 (0) 1752 203346 office@mutleybaptist.co.uk

CHRISTMAS EVE MIDNIGHT COMMUNION 24/12/2008

• 23.30: St Jude’s Church, Beaumont Road, Plymouth, Devon PL4 9BJ
• Finishes at half past midnight.

MUTLEY BAPTIST CHURCH 25/12/2008

• 10.30am: Mutley Baptist Church, Mutley Plain, Plymouth PL4 6LB
• Christmas Morning: An informal carol service for all ages.
• +44 (0) 1752 203346 office@mutleybaptist.co.uk

FAMILY CHRISTMAS COMMUNION 25/12/2008

• 10.30am: St Jude’s Church, Beaumont Road, Plymouth, Devon PL4 9BJ
• Family service – all welcome. Lasts one hour.

Contents (click to go to the relevant section):

Eastbourne

Hastings

Arundel

Adur

Eastbourne

WINTER WONDERLAND CHRISTMAS FAYRE 15/11/2008 & 22/11/2008

• 11am – 2pm Central Methodist Church Hall, Langley Road, Eastbourne (opposite KFC)
  • Come along and enjoy our Winter Wonderland Christmas Fayre. Help raise funds for the Friends of Eastbourne Hospitals Cancer Ward Appeal. Toys, Cards, Games, Raffle, Tombola, Cakes and Sweets Stall, Meet Father Christmas and receive a lovely gift. Hot lunches and steaming mince pies and cream! What more could you want on a cold winter’s day? Step into our Winter Wonderland and find the real Christmas spirit!!!!
  • Contact: Margaret Parker: 07769 751270, zlevi@hotmail.com

JANE DE WECK IN THE ARNDALE CENTRE 17/11/2008 – 21/11/2008

• Jane de Weck Photography will be exhibiting in the Arndale Centre displaying her work with a Christmas theme accompanied by Father Christmas on Monday 17 November. Jane will be displaying her work and fundraising on behalf of Cancer Research UK.
  • A raffle is being held that will be drawn on Sunday 21 December at midday at Jane’s Studio and tickets will be available from the stand in the Arndale Centre and from her studio. Father Christmas will be attending bearing gifts for the children alongside a real, giant Christmas tree.
  • Contact: 01323 727750 janedeweck@hotmail.com

CHRISTMAS MUSIC HALL 27/11/2008

• 2.30pm, Winter Garden – Floral Hall
• Taking you back to those good old days of entertainment will be Marilyn Hill Smith from the BBC’s Friday Night is Music Night, comedy impressionist Adam Daye, harmonica virtuoso David Conway, comedy capers from Ronnie Hayward and singing your favourite Christmas melodies, Tony Leyton and Shelley James. Singalong to your favourite festive songs, plus comedy and music to get you into the turkey and tinsel mood.
• Contact: 01323 412000
• Click here for more information.

ROSELANDS CHRISTMAS FAIR 29/11/2008

• 1.30pm – 3.30pm, Bridgemere Centre, 100 Bridgemere Road
• Melissa and Chrissy invite you to their first ever Christmas Gift Fair at the Bridgemere Centre in Roselands. Baby goods, Toys, Flowers, Candles, Organic produce, Face painting, Books, Hand-made gifts…..so much under one roof! Free entry, Free parking, cheap tea and coffee (and maybe a mince pie or two) Raffle with over 30 prizes too! All profits from the raffle going to the Tuesday O’Hara Fund to help get better facilities at Pevensey Ward, DGH.
• Contact: 07832 227313, tuppennytoys@yahoo.co.uk

The Nutcracker

THE NUTCRACKER 29/11/2008

• 7pm, Congress Theatre
• A Ballet in 2 acts. Music by Tchaikovsky. With the Southern Youth Ballet Orchestra. Conducted by Kenneth Roberts. The East Sussex based Southern Youth Ballet Company of 65 young dancers presents a traditional version of this much loved ballet.
• Tickets £7.50, £8.50, £10.50, £12.50
• Contact: 01323 412000
• Click here for more information.

A CELEBRATION OF MUSICAL THEATRE AND CHRISTMAS MUSIC 30/11/2008

• 7pm, Congress Theatre, Carlisle Road, Eastbourne, BN21 4BP
• An evening of song and dance in true Rattonian style. The evening will consist of a selection of The Groups’ favourite show numbers, celebrating their 24 years of producing musicals in Eastbourne. Also included are fun Christmas songs including Winter Wonderland and the favourite White Christmas to get you into seasonal mood.
• £12
• Contact: 01323 412000
• Click here for more information.

THE BIG CHRISTMAS SING 03/12/2008

• 5.30pm & 7.30pm, Winter Garden – Floral Hall, Compton Street, Eastbourne, BN21 4BP
• £5.00. Over 60s, Children, People With Disabilities, Students, Unemployed £2.00 off. Baby Tickets £2.00. Family Saver Family of 4 £15.00 (2 Adults, 2 Children)
• Click here for more info.

JOHN MANN CHRISTMAS SHOW 04/12/2008

• 2.30pm Winter Garden – Floral Hall, Compton Street, Eastbourne, BN21 4BP
• £8
• Click here for more details.

CHRISTMAS MAGIC WEEKEND 06/12/2008 – 07/12/2008

• This year Christmas Magic will be in aid of St Wilfrid’s Hospice with the aim of raising as much money as possible for this very worthwhile local charity. Don’t miss the following events taking place on both days:
  • Local farmers and an ethical Christmas Market
  • Father Christmas Parade
  • Town Centre Treasure Hunt competition
  • Musical entertainment and competitions
  • St Wilfrid’s Bed Push Collection
  • Local choirs and entertainers
  • Town Centre Business Fancy Dress competition
• Contact: 01323 415224

ROYAL AIR FORCE IN CONCERT 07/12/2008

• 7.30pm – 11.30pm, Congress Theatre, Winter Garden, Compton Street, Eastbourne, BN21 4BP
• Join us for an irresistible musical journey through the past, present and future of the Royal Air Force. A diverse mix of light classics, jazz, big band and music from the shows by the critically acclaimed musicians from the Royal Air Force.
• Tickets: £13.50, £16.50, £19.50, 10% discount for Groups of 10 or more
• Click here for more information.

CHRISTMAS JOY WITH THE SALVATION ARMY 09/12/2008

• 7pm, Winter Garden – Floral Hall, Compton Street, Eastbourne, BN21 4BP
• £5
• Click here for more information.

ROTARY CLUB OF EASTBOURNE PRESENTS CHRISTMAS CAROL CONCERT 13/12/2008

• 2.30pm and 7.30pm, Congress Theatre, Winter Garden, Compton Street, Eastbourne, BN21 4BP
• £7
• Click here for more details.

CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT 15/12/2008

• 7.30pm, Congress Theatre, Winter Garden, Compton Street, Eastbourne, BN21 4BP
• Starring the Mozart Festival Orchestra (in full 18th Century costume) with the Mozart Festival Chorus, conductor Steven Devine, soprano Laura Parfitt. Programme highlights include Corelli Alegro and Pastorale from Christmas Concerto, Handel Christmas Sequence from Messiah, Cullen Angels from the realms of glory, Vivaldi Gloria (Opening Chorus), Mozart Laudate Dominum and Bach Air on the G String, plus a selection of carols for all to enjoy.
• Tickets £19.50, £24.00, £26.50
• Click here for more information.

SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARVES 12/12/2008 – 11/01/2008

• Devonshire Park Theatre, Compton Street, Eastbourne, BN21 4BP
• Starring Stefan Booth, Niamh Perry from BBCs I’D Do Anything, Carl Patrick and Martyn Knight. Mirror Mirror on the wall, a perfect panto for one and all… baddies to boo and goodies to cheer, with plenty of songs performed by a live band and of course lots of ‘It’s behind you’ fun!
• Click here for more information.

St Petersburg Ballet Theatre

SLEEPING BEAUTY 17/12/2008

• 7.30pm, Congress Theatre, Winter Garden, Compton Street, Eastbourne, BN21 4BP
• Not invited to Princess Aurora’s christening, Carabosse vows the baby will prick her finger and die. The Fairy of Goodness and Light turns the curse into a hundred year sleep when Aurora will awake to the kiss of a handsome Prince. St Petersburg Ballet Theatre dance to Tchaikovsky’s masterpiece.
• Tickets: £16.00, £19.00, £25.00, £27.50, £30.00
• Click here for more details.

Swan Lake

SWAN LAKE 18/12/2008 – 19/12/2008

• 7.30pm, Congress Theatre, Winter Garden, Compton Street, Eastbourne, BN21 4BP
• Join the internationally acclaimed St Petersburg Ballet as they present the wonderful Swan Lake. The spellbinding story of Odette, a swan-princess, released from the curse of the evil Rothbart when she and Prince Siegfried affirm their love for each other.
• Ticket Prices: £16.00, £19.00, £25.00, £27.50, £30.00 (discounts available)
• Click here for more information.

Swan Lake

THE NUTCRACKER 20/12/2008- 21/12/2008

• Various times, Congress Theatre, Winter Garden, Compton Street, Eastbourne, BN21 4BP
• Clara and her Nutcracker doll journey to a fantasy kingdom, meet the Mouse King, the Snow Queen and visit the Land of the Sweets. Presented by St Petersburg Ballet Theatre, including live orchestra.
• Tickets: £16.00, £19.00, £25.00, £27.50, £30.00
• Click here for more information.

CHRISTMAS DAY WITH EASTBOURNE SILVER BAND 25/12/2008

• 10:45am – 12:15, The Bandstand, Eastbourne Seafront.
• Christmas Day with our very own town band ‘Eastbourne Silver Band’ directed by Geoff Broom.
• Click here for more information.

Hastings

Bodium Castle

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING AT BODIUM CASTLE 01/11/2008 – 24/12/2008

• Come and purchase your presents in a relaxed and unhurried atmosphere. Afterwards enjoy a brisk wintry walk in the Castle grounds and then pop into the Tea Room for a hearty lunch or a warming cup of tea and a slice of cake!
• 10:30 to 16:00, Bodiam Castle, nr Robertsbridge, East Sussex TN32 5UA: Telephone: 01580 830196
• Click here for more information.

CHRISTMAS TABLE ARRANGMENTS 13/11/2008

• Heathfield Community Centre, Sheepsetting Lane, Heathfield
• Floral workshop with Tilda Conway. Light refreshments, raffle, sales table.
• Visitors welcome £3.50
• Heathfield Community Centre, Sheepsetting Lane, Heathfield
• Contact Tel.: 01435 866026
• Click here for map.

ST MICHAEL’S HOSPICE CHRISTMAS FAIR 15/11/2008

• 10:00 to 17:00, King John’s Nursery, Sheepstreet Lane, Etchingham
• A seasonal fair offering visitors an excellent early Christmas shopping experience at a pleasant venue. There will be a wide range of stalls including plants, dried flower arrangements, jewellery, contemporary art, Christmas decorations, Christmas cards, incense sticks, monogrammed towels, Hospice raffle and mulled wine. Visitors will also have the opportunity to walk around the beautiful garden of King John’s Lodge next to the Nursery.
• Entrance free.
• Contact Name: Suzanne Leonard
  Contact Tel.: 01424 205552
  Contact Email: suzanneleonard@stmichaelshospice.com

NORTH STAR ENCOUNTER – THE CHRISTMAS SHOW 15/11/2008 – 11/01/2008

• 10:00 to 17:30, Easton Rooms, Rye
• A celebration of new and old artists at the gallery packed with unusual pieces, closed for lunch between 1pm & 2pm
• Contact Tel.: 01797 222433

VICTORIAN MAGIC LANTERN SHOW 15/11/2008

• 19:00 to 23:00, Arthur Easton Centre, St Michaels Hospice, 25 Upper Maze Hill, St. Leonards
• Tickets £6 include cheese or pate supper.
• Contact Tel.: 01424 713991

ST MICHAEL’S HOSPICE CHRISTMAS FAIR 17/11/2008

• 10:00 to 17:00, Cooden Beach Hotel, Cooden Sea Road, Bexhill on Sea
• Visitors will enjoy an early seasonal shopping experience at a very pleasant venue. There will be a wide variety of stalls including Christmas cards and gifts, monogrammed towels, dried flower arrangements, contemporary art, environmentally friendly gift items, home-made cakes and chutneys, jewellery, incense sticks and fashion items. There will also be Hospice stalls and a tombola. Entrance is only £1 and this can be redeemed against drinks, snacks or a restaurant meal (booking advised) at the Cooden Beach Hotel.
• Contact Name: Suzanne Leonard
  Contact Tel.: 01424 205552
  Contact Email: suzanneleonard@stmichaelshospice.com

A MEDIEVAL CHRISTMAS 22/11/2008 – 23/11/2008

• 10am-4pm, 1066 Battle of Hastings, Abbey & Battlefield
• A light-hearted look at medieval festive traditions. Enjoy seasonal food in the café and a chance to start your Christmas shopping from the unusual range of gifts.
• Adult £6.50/Conc £5.20/Child £3.30/Family £16.30
• Members Free
• Click here for more information.

CHRISTMAS CRAFT & GIFT FAIR 23/11/2008

• 10:00 to 16:00, Powdermills Hotel, Power Mill Lane, Battle
• 30 stalls selling jewellery, toys, bags, cards, authographed pictures, handcrafted items, stocking fillers plus lots of Christmas present ideas. Refreshments and snacks on sale raising funds for disabled children in Uganda. Free Entry.
• Contact Tel.: 01323 471018

A TUDOR CHRISTMAS 29/11/2008 – 30/11/2008

• 10am – 4pm, 1066 Battle of Hastings, Abbey & Battlefield
• Enjoy music and stories as you discover how the Tudors celebrated this festive time of year. Enjoy seasonal food in the café and a chance to start your Christmas shopping from the unusual range of gifts.
• Click here for more information.

CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL 29/11/2008 – 30/12/2008

• 2.15pm, 10:30 to 21:00, St Mary’s Church, High Street, Battle
• The Tree Festival will be opened by the Dean of Battle at 10.30am with a coffee morning and Christmas Fair. At 2.15pm there will be a short musical performance of favourite festive tunes with more music at 4pm with a demonstration and entertainment from the Senlac Hand Bells.
• On Sunday, the Festival re-opens with Father Christmas present at 2.15pm and the Catsfield Hand Bells giving a demonstration at 3pm. At 4pm you will be entertained by the Ascension Voices from Church of the Ascension Telham. The Festival will come to a close with a traditional Advent Candle Carol Service at 6.30pm when the winner of the tree decoration competition will be announced.
• Contact Name: Sue Blackman Contact Tel.: 01424 774201

CHRISTMAS SOUL PARTY 30/11/2008

• 19:00 to 00:00, White Rock Theatre, Hastings
• Featuring SOUL X PRESS and the fabulous 12 piece BLUES BROTHERS SHOW plus 3 great support bands including SHOT TO BITS
• Tickets: Early Bird Special – Pre-Book Now – 2 for £15 or £8.50 each on the night
• In aid of Surviving Christmas & St Michael’s Hospice
• Contact Tel.: 0870 145 11 33

SANTA ARRIVAL IN HASTINGS 27/11/2008

• 17:00 to 22:00, Priory Meadow Shopping Centre, Hastings
• The eagerly awaited arrival of Santa at Hastings. Entertainment commences at 5pm with Arrow FM Roadshow. Santa will walk up the Mall to open the Christmas Grotto approximately 6-8pm.
• Late night shopping until 8pm.
• Charlie the Clown and stilt walker to entertain Grotto queue.

Bateman's National Trust

CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS TRAIL AND QUIZ 01/12/2008 – 21/12/2008

• 10:30 to 16:00, Bateman’s
• Follow the Christmas trail to find the snowmen hiding in the garden, who will help you find the answers to the questions.
• £2
• Contact Tel.: 01435 882302
• Click here for more information.

Santa Specials on Kent & East Sussex Railway

SANTA SPECIALS, KENT & EAST SUSSEX RAILWAY 6th, 7th, 13th, 14th, 20th – 24th December 2008

• 11am – 4pm, Kent & East Sussex Railway
• ALL tickets can be booked either in person at Tenterden Station or by telephone on 01580 765155. In addition, Standard Class tickets can be ordered online from early October.
• A present, drink and chocolate for the children 18 months – 15 years. Sherry, port or orange juice and mince pie for the grown-ups. You’ll be greeted by a traditional lorry-mounted pipe organ before entering the station where there’s lots to see and do. Enjoy an unlimited number of free rides on both of our Victorian Carousels. Good value food is available in our licensed restaurant and take-away from our BBQ.
• Click here for more information.

THE MARRIAGE OF FIGARO 05/12/2008 – 07/12/2008

• St Mary in the Castle
• 5th & 6th December 7.30pm, 7th December 3pm with Opera South East and the Sussex Concert Orchestra.
• Box Office: 0845 274 1001

LATE NIGHT CHRISTMAS SHOPPING EVENT 05/12/2008

• 16:30 to 20:30, Bexhill Town Centre
• Organised by Bexhill Chamber of Commerce & Tourism, this event sees carol singing in Devonshire Square together with a host of fun seasonal activities for children!
• Event Organisers: 01424 842892

GIFT WRAPPING AND TABLE DECORATION WORKSHOP 05/12/2008

• 10:30 to 15:00, Bodiam Castle
• Nigel Coomber will demonstrate how to create artistic table decorations and how to give your gift wrapping a ‘classy’ touch!
• Contact: 01580 830436

SPECIAL PRE-SCHOOL DAY AT KESR 05/12/2008

• 10:00 to 14:00, Kent & East Sussex Railway
• Enjoy a magical one-hour round trip on a steam train to Wittersham Road Station with a visit from Santa and his Pixies and a present for every child too.
• Three Departures at 10:25, 12:15 & 13:30 from Tenterden. A drink of flavoured milk and biscuits for the children. All children will receive a quality present from Santa on the journey
• Refreshments on-board for the grown-ups.
• £10.50 per person for this package.
• 087 060 060 74

VICTORIAN FESTIVE EVENING

• 19:30 to 00:00, Rye Castle Museum, East Street, Rye
• Songs and readings by Rye Shakespear Company and The Hollington Mummers, performing a traditional Mummers Play
• Tickets £5.00 to include a free festive drink.
• The Curator: 01797 226728

RYE CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL 06/12/2008 – 30/12/2008

• 1pm – 6pm Rye – East Sussex
• On 6th December it’s the opening of the second festival will be a spectacular event with a magical procession, the arrival of Father Christmas, fireworks and street entertainers. Street entertainment will take place around town.
• Throughout December the Festival has a number of events planned to help celebrate Christmas.
• Please see festival brochure available in most of Rye’s shops and businesses or contact the Rye Tourist Information Centre.
• Rye Tourist Information Centre: 01797 226696
• Contact Email: ryetic@rother.gov.uk
• Further Contact Details: Festival Co-ordinator, Peter Cosstick 07867 888670

CHRISTMAS SPECIAL WEEKEND AT HERSTMONCEUX OBSERVATORY 06/12/2008 – 07/12/2008

• 10:00 to 17:00, Herstmonceux Observatory
• Spectacular science shows and an opportunity to shop until you drop! ALL children admitted FREE of charge with a paying adult/senior. Shop will be open to the general public 10 am – 4 pm for those stocking fillers and Christmas gifts!
• Bookings Office: Hailsham, East Sussex: 01323 832731 Contact Email: info@the-observatory.org

CHRISTMAS FAIR 06/12/2008

• 11:00 to 13:30, New Hall, Cricket Field, Winchelsea
• Contact Tel.: 01797 225333
• Contact Email: office@winchelsea.net

SANTA SPECIAL DATES 06/12/2008 – 07/12/2008

• Kent & East Sussex Railway
• A present, drink and chocolate for children 18 months-15 years, sherry, port or orange juice and mince pie for the grown-ups.
• You’ll be greeted by a traditional lorry-mounted pipe organ before entering the station where there’s lots to see and do. Enjoy an unlimited number of free rides on both of our Victorian Carousels. Good value food is available in our licensed restaurant and take-away.
• Contact Tel.: 087 060 060 74

Great Dixter Gardens

THE GREAT DIXTER CHRISTMAS FAIR 06/12/2008 – 07/12/2008

• 10am – 4pm, Great Dixter House and Gardens
• Great Dixter is delighted to announce our third Christmas Fair which will take place in the Great Hall, Yeomans Hall and connecting corridors. Our diverse range of stalls will include products from our own shop* and nursery, the Chelsea Physic Garden and many other interesting items from local traders and of course the gardens will be open to the public.
• £5

CHRISTMAS CRAFTS 06/12/2008

• 10:00 to 15:00, Bedgebury Pinetum
• A medley of Christmas craft activities, outdoors in the pinetum and indoors creating Christmas gifts and generally having fun! £5 per young person. PRE-BOOKING ESSENTIAL. 10am-12noon 4-6 year olds. 1pm-3pm 7-12 year olds.

SANTA IN THE GROTTO 06/12/2008 – 07/12/2008

• 10:00 to 04:30, Bodiam Castle
• Explore the Castle with a fun trail leaflet then meet Santa in his Grotto inside one of the medieval towers. Normal adult admissions apply.
• Contact Tel.: 01580 830436

CHRISTMAS AT BATEMAN’S 06/12/2008 – 21/12/2008

• 11:30 to 15:30, Bateman’s
• An opportunity to see Bateman’s as you have never seen it before. During the first three weekends of December the ground floor will be open and dressed for a Kipling family Christmas.
• 6-7 December; 13-14 December and 20-21 December.
• Contact Tel.: 01435 882302

CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS QUEST 06/12/2008 – 07/12/2008

• 10:00 to 16:00, Battle Abbey
• Can you crack the clues on this Christmas Quest for children. Do not forget to claim your prize.

CHRISTMAS STREET MARKET 06/12/2008

• 10:00 to 15:00, Kings Road, St. Leonards
• The Christmas market will complement the diverse mix of St Leonards shopping and be supported by a variety of Street Entertainment, with hot chestnuts and festive food.

WINTER FRIENDS EVENT 07/12/2008

• 11:00 to 15:00, RSPCA Mallydams Wood, Peter James Lane, Fairlight, TN35 4AH
• Just over two weeks until Christmas! Come and visit the woodland in winter before popping into the shop to pick up some Christmas cards and last-minute stocking fillers!
• Contact Tel.: 0300 123 0750

RYE WURLITZER ORGAN CHRISTMAS CONCERT 07/12/2008

• 14:30 to 00:00, Rye College, The Grove, Rye
• Featuring the 20 strong Regency Singers and International Performing artist Chris Powell playing the historic Rye Wurlitzer. A mix of seasonal favourites with a broad selection of theatre organ music.
• Tickets £6.25 includes seasonal interval refreshments. Children under 16 with paying adult free.
• Tickets available on the door.
• Richard Moore Contact Tel.: 01424 444058

CHRISTMAS LUNCH AT BODIAM CASTLE 10/12/2008 – 24/12/2008

• Bodiam Castle
• Enjoy a brisk wintry walk in the grounds of Bodiam Castle and then warm up with a hearty Christmas Lunch in the Wharf Tea Rooms.
• Two courses £15.95; three courses £18.95; Vegetarian menu available.
• Contact Tel.: 01580 830436
• Bodiam Castle.

PETER PAN 10/12/2008 – 04/01/2008

• 18:00 to 23:00: White Rock Theatre
• STARRING FORMER S CLUB 7 SINGER JON LEE AND LITTLE BRITAIN’S STEVE FURST!!
• The Darling family children receive a visit from Peter Pan, who takes them to Never Never Land where an ongoing war with the evil Pirate Captain Hook is taking place.
• Contact Tel.: 0870 1451133
• Peter Pan at White Rock Theatre.

GALA EVENING IN BATTLE 11/12/2008

• 18:00 to 21:00, Battle High Street
• Shops, banks and offices stay open until 9pm. Staff will be dressed in their best fancy costumes, Father Christmas returns to his grotto at The Almonry together with music, competitions and entertainment throughout the town.
• Free parking in the Abbey car park for the evening.
• Contact Email: battletic@rother.gov.uk
• Battle website.

RYE PRODUCE MARKET 13/12/2008

• 10:00 to 15:00, Adjoining Cattle Market Car Park, rear of Cinque Ports Hotel, Cinque Ports Street, Rye
• The market will be selling only local produce: food, crafts and more.
• Support Rye’s local economy by doing some of your Christmas shopping here.
• Contact Name: Bosney Farm, Iden, East Sussex TN31 7PY Contact Tel.: 01797 280282 Contact Email: christopher@ryemarket.org.uk
• Rye market website.

SANTAS IN THE GROTTO 13/12/2008 – 14/12/2008

• 10:00 to 16:30, Bodiam Castle
• Explore the Castle with a fun trail leaflet then meet Santa in his grotto inside one of the medieval towers. Normal adult admissions apply.
• Contact Tel.: 01580 830436
• Bodiam Castle.

SANTAS SPECIAL DATES 13/12/2008 – 14/12/2008

• Kent & East Sussex Railway
• A present, drink and chocolate for the children 18 months-15 years, sherry, port or orange juice and mince pie for the grown-ups. You’ll be greeted by a traditional lorry-mounted pipe organ before entering the station where there’s lots to see and do. Enjoy an unlimited number of free rides on both of our Victorian Carousels. Good value food is available in our licensed restaurant and take-away.
• Contact Tel.: 087 060 060 74
• KESR website.

CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS QUEST 13/12/2008 – 14/12/2008

• 10:00 to 16:00, Battle Abbey
• Can you crack the clues on this Christmas Quest for children. Do not forget to claim your prize.
• Battle Abbey.

HASTINGS CENTENARY MARATHON 14/12/2008

• 09:30 to 14:00, Hastings Town Hall, Queen Road, Hastings TN34 1QR
• Register your interest in this ‘one off’ Special Event by emailing racedirector@hastings-half.co.uk
• There will be a 500 limit on this Extra Special Event. Start/Finish – Hastings Town Hall, Hastings.
• Contact Email: webmaster@hastings-half.co.uk
• Hastings Marathon Website.

THE WIZARD OF OZ 16/12/2008 – 21/12/2008

• 19:30 to 23:30, The Stables Theatre
• When their house is hit by a Kansas tornado, Dorothy Gale and her dog Toto are lifted off to Oz. They land on an unpleasant witch, much to the delight of the inhabitants, but to the fury of her wicked sister. Dorothy sets off along the yellow-brick road to seek the Wizard’s help, meeting up with a scarecrow who needs a brain, a tin woodman who needs a heart, and a lion who needs courage.
• Tickes Adults £12; Members, under 18s and groups £7
• Wizard of Oz at Stables Theatre.

THE MUPPET CHRISTMAS CAROL 17/12/2008

• 17:00 to 20:00, Electric Palace Cinema, High Street, Hastings
• For a unique twist on a holiday favourite don’t miss The Muppet Christmas Carol. Michael Caine stars as Ebenezer Scrooge in this version of the classic Dickens’ tale about a mean old man who learns to change his ways one lonely Christmas Eve. Kermit the Frog plays Bob Cratchit while Miss Piggy plays Bob’s feisty wife. Tune in for Christmas cheer only the Muppets can bring!
• December listings at the Electric Palace.

THIS CHRISTMAS 18/12/2008 – 19/12/2008

• 20:00 to 23:00, Electric Palace Cinema, High Street, Hastings
• An upbeat comedy centering on a family’s first reunion in four years. The Whitfield clan gathers at the matriarch’s house. For those keeping score during the 3-days, there is one divorce filed, one secret marriage and pregnancy revealed, two guns pulled, one whipping, two beatings, a catfight, one arrest and one very badly cooked meal. Several musical interludes fill “This Christmas” with an infectiously buoyant spirit.
• December listings at the Electric Palace.

LATE NIGHT CHRISTMAS SHOPPING 19/12/2008

• 09:00 to 20:30, Kings Road, St. Leonards
• Late night shopping and Carol Concert and visit from Father Christmas.

CAROLS AT ST MARY-IN-THE-CASTLE 20/12/2008

• St Mary-in-the-Castle, 7 Pelham Crescent, Hastings, East Sussex, TN34 3AF
• Hastings Philharmonic Choir herald in Christmas with a traditional celebration for choir, brass ensemble and audience. With musicians from Claremont School.
• Tickets from Hastings Information Centre, or 01424 431442/440044
• Contact Tel.: 01424 431442 Contact Email: admin@hastingsphilchoir.org.uk

CHRISTMAS CRACKERS 20/12/2008

• 10:00 to 14:00, Mallydams Woods Education Centre, Fairlight
• Make festive gifts for your family pets and garden wildlife with our animal-themed art and craft day.
• For children 8 – 12 years.
• Contact Tel.: 0300 123 0750

CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS QUEST 20/12/2008 – 21/12/2008

• 10:00 to 16:00, Battle Abbey, Battle, East Sussex, TN33 0AD
• Telephone: 01424 775705, Fax: 01424 775059
• Can you crack the clues on this Christmas Quest for children. Do not forget to claim your prize.
• Click here for more information.

IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE 20/12/2008 – 21/12/2008

• 20:00 to 23:00, Electric Palace Cinema, High Street, Hastings
• Jimmy Stewart is the owner of a money lending company that for years has been helping people in his town live their dreams. But when one Christmas he has one calamity after another, he decides to take his own life, believing everyone would be better off if he had never lived. His guardian angel stops him in the act and grants him the opportunity to see what things would have been like if he had never been born.
• Electric Palace Cinema.

SANTA IN THE GROTTO 20/12/2008 – 21/12/2008

• Bodiam Castle
• Explore the Castle with a fun trail leaflet then meet Santa in his grotto inside one of the medieval towers. Normal adult admissions apply.
• Contact Tel.: 01580 830436
• Bodiam Castle Website.

SANTA SPECIAL DATES 20/12/2008 – 24/12/2008

• Kent & East Sussex Railway
• A present, drink and chocolate for the children 18 months – 15 years, sherry, port or orange juice and mince pie for the grown-ups. You’ll be greeted by a traditional lorry-mounted pipe organ before entering the station where there’s lots to see and do. Enjoy an unlimited number of free rides on both of our Victorian Carousels. Good value food is available in our licensed restaurant and take-away.
• Contact Tel.: 087 060 060 74
• KESR website.

THE ORCHESTRA OF ST. JOHN’S PRESENTS: A FAMILY CHRISTMAS 21/12/2008

• 3pm – 10pm,
• The perfect start to Christmas. Take a musical toboggan ride through crunchy snow and icy wind with Sleigh Rides by Mozart and Leroy Anderson, and play ‘Spot the Christmas Carols’ in British composer Hely-Hutchinson’s Carol Symphony. After the interval, enjoy the film of Raymond Briggs’ classic The Snowman, with the Orchestra of St John’s performing the soundtrack live.
• De La Warr Pavillion.

MID-WINTER AT BATEMAN’S 22/12/2008

• 10am – Noon Bateman’s
• The longest night of the year has passed and now the days begin to lengthen. Come and explore the bits of the Bateman’s estate not normally open to the public and hear a tale or two about the Winter Solstice.
• Contact Tel.: 01435 882302
• Bateman’s.

CIRCUS ETC 24/12/2008 – 30/12/2008

• De la Warr Pavilion, Bexhill
• Direct from Circus Space, London Circus ETC is a brand new Circus Variety show that will thrill and dazzle the whole family.
• Comedian and street entertainer Goronwy Thom is your host for the show – this Tommy Cooper-esque performer has been described in one word by The Stage – “Gulp !” ‘Everything was so wrong, which made it so right!’ said Simon Cowell about Hoop La La who gave their show-stopping performance in the semi-finals of ‘Britains Got Talent’. Craig Reid, Tiina Tuomisto and Jessica Walters and the thousands of people who voted for them have shown the world that hoola-hooping is cool!
• Pavillion website.

Arundel

Arundel Cathedral

ARUN CHORAL SOCIETY CAROL CONCERT 06/12/2008 & 13/12/2008

• Cathedral House, Parsons Hill, Arundel, West Sussex, BN18 9AY
  • Telephone: 01903 882297
    Fax: 01903 885335

FRIENDS OF ARUNDEL CATHEDRAL CHRISTMAS CONCERT 19/12/2008

• www.arunchoralsociety.co.uk or ACS Box Office 01798 812481
• 7.30pm, Cathedral House, Parsons Hill, Arundel, West Sussex, BN18 9AY
• Telephone: 01903 882297
• Fax: 01903 885335
• more information from the ‘Friends’ Office 01903 884567 or www.arundelcathedralfriends.org

Adur

NIGHT OF FESTIVE FUN AND CHRISTMAS SHOPPING EVENT 27/11/2008

• 6pm to 9pm, North Road, Lancing
• (part of The Adur Town Centres Initiative)
• To book a stall at the event click here for a word document, or here for a pdf.
• For information please contact : David Steadman, Adur Town Centres and Street Scene Coordinator, Tel: (01273) 263152 (Mobile : 07786 075027), david.steadman@adur.gov.uk

SOUTHWICK SQUARE CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL

• 2008 dates to be announced (in 2007 it was : Saturday 1st December : a daytime event – finish approx. 5pm)
• Southwick Square Traders Association are holding their annual Christmas Festival on Saturday 1st December. There will be a kiddies funfair running all day and Father Christmas will be in the Square’s Post Office approx. 2pm. There will be charity fundraising stalls, the Police CCTV van and display and St. John’s will also be there both in official capacity and fundraising. There will be some new Christmas illuminations thanks to a donation from Adur District Council. There will be plenty of pre-Christmas bargains and a fun day for everyone.
• Organiser : Beryl Ferrers-Guy on behalf of Southwick Square Traders Association.
• Tel : (01273) 591284 e-mail : beryl.ferrersguy@pablab.co.uk

CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL 09/12/2008

• 4pm to 9pm, Shoreham Town Centre, High Street, East Street, Ropetackle
• Switch on of Christmas Lights 5.00pm
• Christmas shopping, Street performers, Live music, Christmas Carols, Santa grotto, Children’s sideshows and rides.
• Organised by Shoreham Town Centre Association with the support of Adur District Council Town Centres Coordinator.
• To book a stall at the event click here for a word document, or here for a pdf.
• For information please contact : David Steadman, Adur Town Centres and Street Scene Coordinator, Tel : (01273) 263152 (Mobile : 07786 075027) david.steadman@adur.gov.uk

Shoreham Christmas Market

SHOREHAM CHRISTMAS FOOD AND DRINK FESTIVAL 13/12/2008 & 14/12/2008

• Shoreham Town Centre, East Street and St Marys Road, Shoreham-by-Sea
• A Weekend to Celebrate Great Festive Food and Drink
• Festive Live Music throughout the Weekend
• Live Nativity Scene
• Saturday 13th December :
  • Christmas Farmers Market
• Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th December :
  • Festive Fine and Speciality Food and Drink Fair with Arts and Crafts
  • Heated Marquee Coronation Green
• Market stalls Sunday 14th December :
  • Brunomarts French and Continental Market
• Event Organised by Adur Town Centres and Street Scene Coordinator as part of the Adur Town Centres Initiative.
• To book a stall at the event click here for a word document or here for a PDF.
• For information please contact : David Steadman, Adur Town Centres and Street Scene Coordinator, Tel : (01273) 263152 (Mobile : 07786 075027) david.steadman@adur.gov.uk
• More information on taking part in an Adur market.

Greek Bank - Orpheus

ORPHEUS ENTERTAINMENT – GREEK INTERNATIONAL EVENING 14/12/2008

• 7.30pm to , Shoreham Airport
• Highly recommended for a good night out, this professional greek band have played music all over the UK and abroad. If you like Greek dancing this is a must for you, they will get you joining in so you can zorba the night away. Take a look at their website www.orpheusentertainment.tk to give you a taste of what is to come.
• Purchase your tickets by telephoning Shoreham Airport Reception on 01273 467374 / 375 or call in between 9.00am and 5.00pm.
• Doors open @ 7.30pm – 11.30pm, Tickets £8.00pp, Food Available.
• For more details see : Shoreham Airport website – events section.

CHAIRMAN’S CELEBRATION SERVICE OF CAROLS AND READINGS 17/12/2008 (provisional)

• 

  St Mary De Haura Church

  start at 6.30pm, St Mary De Haura Church

• The Chairman of the Council is inviting all Adur residents to a Celebration Service of Carols and Readings. The service this year is guaranteed to get you in the Christmas mood with carols, festive readings and music. The service will commence at 6:30pm and people are invited to join the Chairman for mulled wine and mince pies after the service.
• For information please contact : Chris Cadman-Dando, Democratic Services Officer, Tel : (01273) 263025, demsers@adur.gov.uk

ABBA’S ANGELS 19/12/2008

• 8.30pm to 10.30pm, Shoreham Airport
• Abba’s Angels, one of the UK’s premier Abba Tribute groups have been established since 2000. They have appeared on BBC TV’s Children in Need twice, on the front cover of the Sunday Times Magazine and been recently recommended in the Sun newspaper. Abba’s Angels perform all the best known Abba songs wearing hand-made replica costumes with choreographed dance routines.
• For more details see : Shoreham Airport website – events section.

LA BOHEME 11/16/2008

• San Francisco Opera, 301 Van Ness Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94102
• Contact (415) 861-4008

This heartwarming story of starving artists falling in and out of love in 19th-century Paris is a seamless mix of romantic passion, poignant tragedy and high-spirited fun. The superb cast is headed by Polish tenor Piotr Beczala (Tamino in 2007’s The Magic Flute) and Romanian soprano Angela Gheorghiu (Magda in 2007’s La Rondine), who has wowed critics and audiences with both the beauty of her voice and the depth of her characterizations.

• Sung in Italian with English subtitles.
• Tickets $418
• Click here for more information.
• Click here for tickets.

PHANTOM OF THE OPERA 11/26/2008

• Orpheum Theatre, 1192 Market Street, Corner of Hyde and Market at 8th Street, San Francisco, CA 94102
• Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera directed by Harold Prince traces the tragic love story of a beautiful opera singer and a young composer shamed by his physical appearance into a shadowy existence beneath the majestic Paris Opera House.
• Click here for more information (including video trailer).
• Click here for tickets.

30th ANNUAL GREAT DICKENS CHRISTMAS FAIR 11/28/2008 – 12/21/2008

• Cow Palace, 2600 Geneva Avenue, Bayview
• Ticket Info: $22/General Admission, $19/Student, Senior, Military, $10/Children (ages 5-11), Free/Children under 5
• The Dickens Christmas Fair revives the tradition of an old English Victorian Christmas with theaters, a music hall, dance parties, taverns, shops, stalls, food, street vendors and period costumes. Time: Friday 11:00am-7:00pm (11/28), Saturday-Sunday 11:00am-7:00pm
• Click here for more information.

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA 11/29/2008 – 12/21/2008

• 8:00am-12:00pm, Eclipse Café, Hyatt Regency San Francisco, 5 Embarcadero Center
• Ticket Info $209/Two Adults and Two Children
• Eclipse Café will continue to host the popular Breakfast with Santa buffet. Santa will visit tables or little ones can sit on his lap and have their photo taken for a fee. The special children’s menu includes mini chocolate chip pancakes with raspberry sauce and coconut flakes, gingerbread pancakes topped with powdered sugar, Krispy Kringle bacon, Roley Poley bacon, Mrs. Claus’ cinnamon raison French toast, Christmas cookies and milk, fresh fruit and cereal.
• Contact: (415) 788-1234

A CHRISTMAS CAROL 12/04/2008 – 12/27/2008

• Geary Theater, Union Square, 415 Geary Street
• Ticket Info $12-$80
• A.C.T.’s A Christmas Carol is a Bay Area holiday tradition as beloved as the festive window displays around Union Square. Bring a group to this annual favorite and experience the best of the season with nasty old Scrooge, adorable Tiny Tim, and a multigenerational cast of dozens of the Bay Area’s best actors and singers.
• Thursday 2:00pm and 7:00pm, Friday 7:00pm, (12/26) Friday 2:00pm, Sunday 1:00pm and 5:30pm, Saturday 2:00pm and 7:00pm, (12/9, 12/23) Tuesday 2:00pm and 7:00pm, (12/10, 12/17) Wednesday 2:00pm, (12/22) Monday 7:00pm
• Contact (415) 749-2228
• Click here for more details.
• Click here for Christmas Carol tickets online.

Piedmont East Bay Children's Choir

OLD FIRST CONCERTS 12/05/2008 – 12/19/2008

• Old First Church, 1751 Sacramento Street, Nob Hill
• $15/General Admission, $12/Seniors (+65) and Students (with valid ID)
• One of the Bay Area’s most active independent concert series, Old First Concerts has been presenting performances of chamber and recital repertoire on a year-round basis since 1970.
• December 5: Lawrence Ferrara, guitar, Jon Mendle, archguitar and Yuri Cho, violin
  December 6: Teresa McCollough, piano
  December 7: Ragazzi Boys Chorus
  December 12: Afiara String Quartet
  December 13: Voci Women’s Vocal Ensemble
  December 14: Piedmont East Bay Children’s Choirs
  December 19: Golden Bough: Christmas in Celtic Land
• Contact: (415) 474-1608
• Click here for more details.

DECK THE HALLS 12/07/2008

• 11am & 3pm San Francisco Symphony, Davies Symphony Hall, 201 Van Ness Ave., San Francisco, CA 94102
• Treat your children to this festive holiday party featuring a magical presentation on stage at Davies Symphony Hall. The post-show parties in the lobbies include entertainment, arts and crafts activities, decorated trees, and refreshments.
• Ages 3-10
• Click here for more information from the San Francisco Symphony.

A CATHEDRAL CHRISTMAS 12/07/2008 Through 12/22/2008

• Grace Cathedral, 1100 California Street
• Ticket Info $15-$50
• “Continuing a tradition of sixty one years, Grace Cathedral presents this annual holiday series with the Grace Cathedral Choir of Men and Boys, accompanied by full orchestra and our world-famous Aeolian-Skinner organ. The program will include sacred Christmas masterpieces, classical Yuletide songs, and sing-along carols.”
• Sunday, December 7, 3:00 pm
  Saturday, December 13, 3:00 pm
  Sunday, December 14, 3:00 pm
  Saturday, December 20, 3:00 pm
  Sunday, December 21, 3:00 pm
  Monday, December 22, 7:00 pm
• (415) 749-6300
• Click here for more information.

AIMEE MANN’S THIRD ANNUAL CHRISTMAS SHOW 12/07/2008

• 8pm, Bimbo’s 365 Club, 1025 Columbus Avenue, North Beach
• ($40) 21+
• Click here for more info.
• You can listen to her music here.

A BRASS & ORGAN CHRISTMAS 12/08/2008

• 7pm (Pacific Time) Grace Cathedral, 1100 California Street
• Don’t miss the trumpets and tubas, trombones and more reverberating in the rafters. The program will include holiday favorites and light classical masterpieces, with a few delightful surprises thrown in. Celebrate the season with family and friends in glorious surroundings.
• Tickets
  Front Orchestra $50
  Mid Orchestra $40
  Rear Orchestra $30
  Wings $25
  Sides (unreserved) $15.
• Click here for more information.

Ragner Bohlin

CHORAL CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR 12/10/2008 – 12/12/2008

• Delight in the music of the holiday season with your friends and family as the Grammy Award-winning SFS Chorus, led by Chorus Director Ragnar Bohlin, takes you on a musical journey of holiday choral favorites.
• Wed, Dec 10, 2008 7:30pm, Flint Center (Cupertino)
  Thu, Dec 11, 2008 8:00pm, Davies Symphony Hall
  Fri, Dec 12, 2008 8:00pm, Davies Symphony Hall
• Click here for more information

THREE DECEMBERS 12/11/2008 – 12/14/2008

• Various times, San Francisco Opera, 301 Van Ness Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94102
• Heggie and librettist Gene Scheer use operatic ensembles and Broadway-style solo numbers to explore the loving but often-strained relationship between a famous actress and her two grown children, one of whom is a gay man whose partner is dying of AIDS.
• 2hrs Sung in English with English supertitles
• Click here for more information.

BLACK NATIVITY 12/11/2008 – 12/28/2008

• Lorraine Hansberry Theater, 620 Sutter Street
• Ticket Info: $18-$36
• This classic holiday musical weaves glorious gospel music, poetry and powerful narration to recall the traditional Christmas story of the birth of Christ. This year’s performance is directed by Stanley E. Williams and features the return of Arvis Strickling-Jones with many of the Bay Area’s finest leading gospel artists performing a new script and new songs. The Black Nativity is a toe-tapping, hand-clapping musical treat for young and old, spiritual and secular alike.
• Thursday-Saturday 8:00pm, Sunday 4:00pm
• Contact: (415) 474-8800
• Click here for more details.

San Francisco Ballet - The Nutcracker

THE NUTCRACKER 12/11/2008 – 12/28/2008

• 2pm & 7pm War Memorial Opera House, San Francisco, CA
• Audiences of all ages marvel at the magic and wonderment of this stunning production that has played to unanimous critical acclaim.
• Tickets $214
• Click here for tickets.
• Click here for more details.

CSS 12/12/2008

• 9pm, Bimbo’s 365 Club, 1025 Columbus Avenue, North Beach
• ($20) 18+
• Click here for more info.
• Click here for CSS tickets online.

NATALE BAROCCO 12/12/2008

• 8pm, Herbst Theatre, War Memorial Veterans Building, 401 Van Ness Avenue
• Ticket Info $30-$75/Each
• Natale Barocco will feature Marta Almajano, soprano with conductor Rinaldo Alessandrini performing A. Scarlatti’s Christmas Cantata “O di Betlemme altera”; Corelli’s Christmas Concerto; Vivaldi’s Concerto for strings, RV 121; Geminiani’s Concerto grosso Op. 3, No. 3; and Dall’abaco’s Concerto a quattro da chiesa.
• Contact:(415) 252-1288, info@sfwmpac.org
• Click here for more information.

MUDHONEY 12/12/2008

• 7.30pm, The Independent, 628 Divisadero Street, San Francisco, CA 94117
• Click here for Mudhoney’s myspace page (and listen to their tracks for free)
• Click here for the Independent
• Click here for Mudhoney tickets online

Leonard Nimoy

PETER AND THE WOLF 12/13/2008 – 12/14/2008

• Delight your children with a Bay Area holiday favorite – Prokofiev’s Peter and the Wolf, with Leonard Nimoy as narrator. Festive sounds of the season and a traditional sing-along make this concert perfect for music lovers of all ages.
• Sat, Dec 13, 2008 2:00pm, Flint Center (Cupertino)
  Sun, Dec 14, 2008 1:00pm, Davies Symphony Hall
  Sun, Dec 14, 2008 4:00pm, Davies Symphony Hall
• Click here for more details.
• Click here for Peter and the Wolf tickets online.

A CHANTICLEER CHRISTMAS 12/13/2008 – 12/20/2008

• St. Ignatius Church, 650 Parker Avenue, Sunset
• Ticket Info: $30-$48/Each
• A hallmark of the holidays for over three decades, A Chanticleer Christmas celebrates the true mystery and wonder of Christmas. The elegant concerts feature Medieval and Renaissance sacred works, traditional carols and moving spirituals. Image Credit: Lisa Kohler Time: Saturday 8:00pm
• Contact: (415) 252-8589
• Click here for more information.

DANCE-ALONG NUTCRACKER: BAH HUMBUG! 12/13/2008 – 12/14/2008

• Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, 701 Mission Street
• $24/General Admission, $16/Children and Seniors, $50/Gala
• The Nutcracker meets The Christmas Carol when crazy clockmaker Uncle Drosselmeyer gets a good haunting from a bevy of ghosts after turning down Clara’s Christmas party.
• The wackiest holiday show on earth stars Trauma Flintstone and features Carolyn Carvajal, Pickle Family Circus skater Tom Sellars, Corrine Levy, Kelly Collins, Juan Crovetto… and the audience! While the Band performs Nutcracker favorites like Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy and Waltz of the Flowers, sugar plum wannabes leap and pirouette about the dance floor.
• Tutus and fairy wands are available for those with nothing to wear.
• Performed by San Francisco Lesbian/Gay Freedom Band
• Saturday 2:30pm, Sunday 11:00am and 3:00pm; Gala Show: Saturday 7:00pm
• Contact:(415) 255-1355

AMANDA PALMER with THE DANGER ENSEMBLE plus ZOE KEATING 12/15/2008

• 8:00pm, Bimbo’s 365 Club, 1025 Columbus Avenue, North Beach
• ($25) 18+
• Click here for more info.

COLORS OF CHRISTMAS 12/15/2008 – 12/17/2008

• 8pm, Davies Symphony Hall, 201 Van Ness Ave., San Francisco, CA 94102
• Star power-with some of the greatest Christmas music and most memorable pop hits: the Colors of Christmas returns to Davies Symphony Hall for the 2008 holiday season.
• Click here for more details.
• Click here for symphony tickets online.

THE CHRISTMAS BALLET 2008 EDITION DANCE 12/17/2008 – 12/28/2008

• Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, 701 Mission Street
• Ticket Info $45-$141
• From Bach’s Magnificat to Handel’s Messiah, klezmer to carols, the Classical Act resonates with beauty and elegant, while the Cool Act features hula girls, tapping trees and the world’s longest feather boa. The Christmas Ballet is a magical treat for audiences of all ages performed by Smuin Ballet.
• Time: Wednesday-Friday 8:00pm, Saturday 2:00pm and 8:00pm, Sunday 2:00pm and 7:00pm, (12/23) Tuesday 2:00pm and 8:00pm, (12/24) Wednesday 2:00pm, (12/26) Friday 2:00pm and 8:00pm
• Contact: (415) 495-2234, Email: comments@ybca.org
• Click here for more information.

HANDEL’S MESSIAH 12/18/2008 – 12/19/2008

• 7.30pm Pacific Time, Grace Cathedral, 1100 California Street
• From Dublin to the theatres of London, Handel’s Messiah had captivated and intrigued audiences by its near-operatic qualities. But when Handel inaugurated annual benefit performances in London’s Foundling Hospital “for the Maintenance and Education of Exposed and Deserted Young Children,” the world’s favorite oratorio took hold of its permanent place in the hearts of audiences.
• Click here for more information and tickets.

Canadian Brass

CANADIAN BRASS WITH THE SFS 12/18/2008

• 8pm, Davies Symphony Hall
• The Canadian Brass is a pioneering brass ensemble that has thrilled audiences for over 30 years and continues to fill concert halls worldwide. The quintet’s varied styles include classical, jazz, contemporary concert music, and popular songs. Don’t miss out on your chance to share the holidays in this energy-filled evening!
• Click here for more details.
• Click here for Canadian Brass tickets online.

BRAVO! 12/19/2008

• 8pm, Davies Symphony Hall
• This is a night of Broadway not be missed! Three stars bring their Broadway panache to a program of traditional carols and modern holiday songs.
• Click here for more details.

A FAMILY SING ALONG 12/20/2008

• 11am Pacific Time, Grace Cathedral, 1100 California Street
• Bring the whole family for the first Family Sing-Along at Grace Cathedral! Join the festive San Francisco School of the Arts choir in singing your favorite carols of the holiday season.
• Tickets
  Front Orchestra $25 adult/$15 children
  Mid Orchestra $20 adult/$10 children
  Rear Orchestra $15 adult/$10 children
  Wing $15/$10 children
  Side $10/$5 children
• Click here for more details.

A CHILD’S CHRISTMAS IN WALES AND HOLIDAY ANIMATION FILM FESTIVAL 12/20/2008 – 12/20/2008

• 12 noon and 2pm, Exploratorium, 3601 Lyon Street
• Free with Admission to the Exploratorium: $14/Adults, $11/Seniors and Students, $9/Children (4-12), Free/Members and Children Under 4
• Don’t miss the sound of Dylan Thomas’ voice in the December 20 Exploratorium screening of A Child’s Christmas in Wales, the 1963 film that presents the story, written and narrated by Dylan Thomas, of a boy’s memories of Christmas in Wales. The Sweater (1980, 10 min.), directed by Sheldon Cohen, is an animated version of a story by Québec author Roch Carrier, set in the rural Québec of his boyhood. Carrier recalls the passion for playing hockey, which he shared with the other boys of his community. This funny, poignant story is animated in a style that evokes the late 1940s.
• Contact: (415) 561-0360
• Click here for more details.

A P.D.Q. BACH CHRISTMAS 12/20/2008

• 2:00pm, Davies Symphony Hall
• Don’t miss this afternoon of hilarity! Since 1965 the tireless Professor Peter Schickele has kept audiences in stitches with P.D.Q. Bach’s uniquely typical music. In his well-known role as perpetrator of the now-classic P.D.Q. Bach, Peter Schickele is one of the great satirists of the 20th century.
• Click here for more details.

David Higgs

CHRISTMAS PIPE DREAMS WITH DAVID HIGGS 12/20/2008

• 8pm, Davies Symphony Hall
• Hear and sing along with our majestic 9,000-pipe Ruffatti organ, in its 25th anniversary season. Organist David Higgs heralds the joy of Christmas with classical organ works and traditional carols.
• Prices start at $15
• Click here for more details.
• Click here for Pipe Dreams tickets online.

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS WITH THE NEW ORLEANS JAZZ ORCHESTRA AND IRVINE MAYFIELD 12/21/2008

• 7pm, Davies Symphony Hall
• Celebrate the holidays with big-band New Orleans-style jazz. This crowd-pleasing 16-piece ensemble, led by Grammy-nominated artist Irvin Mayfield, will dazzle you with their exuberant and soulful interpretation of holiday musical favorites.
• Prices start at $15
• Click here for more details.
• Click here for symphony tickets online.

OPEN HOUSE AT THE FORD HOUSE MUSEUM 12/25/2008

• 11am – 4pm, Ford House Museum, 735 Main Street, Mendocino, Mendocino County
• A classic Mendocino tradition, the Christmas Day open house at the Ford House Museum in Mendocino Village offers visitors home-made cinnamon buns, hot coffee and spiced cider in front of a crackling fire.
• Ford House Docent Council: 937-5397 or e-mail: fordhouse@mcn.org.

WHALE WATCHING AT THE POINT CABRILLO LIGHTHOUSE MUSEUM 12/25/2008

• 11:00am-4:00pm, Point Cabrillo Lighthouse, 45300 Lighthouse Road, Mendocino, Mendocino County
• Free Admission
• The Point Cabrillo Lighthouse Museum is celebrating Christmas and the beginning of whale season with a special whale watching event.