Friday December 15
Chanukah. Begins at sunset.
School Sports
For WW-P school sports information, call the hotline: 609-716-5000, ext. 5134.
High School North Boys Basketball. At Hopewell Valley. 7 p.m.
High School North Girl Basketball. Hopewell Valley. 7 p.m.
High School South Boys Basketball. At Ewing. 7 p.m.
High School South Boys Basketball. At Ewing. 7 p.m.
High School South Girls Basketball. www.ww-p.org. Ewing. 7 p.m.
Dance
Sweets with the Nutcracker, Bach Ballet, 122 Main Street, Flemington, 609-773-0099. Hour-long performance and dessert. Silent auction. $12. 6:30 p.m.
Drama
`Twas The Night Before Christmas, Kelsey Theater, Mercer County Community College, 1200 Old Trenton Road, 609-584-9444. www.kelseytheatre.net. Kelsey Players presents a family musical based on Clement Moore’s poem, “A Visit from St. Nicholas.” Audience members are invited to join in caroling before the performance. Connor Craft of West Windsor portrays Moore’s son, Christopher. Also, Saturday, December 16, at 11 a.m., 2 and 4 p.m.; and Sunday, December 17, 2 and 4 p.m. $10. 7 p.m.
A Christmas Carol, McCarter Theater, 91 University Place, 609-258-2787. www.mccarter.org. Holiday favorite. $31 to $49. 7:30 p.m.
You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown, Academy Theater, 146 Route 130, Bordentown, 609-291-9000. www.theacademytheatre.com. Musical. $25. 8 p.m.
The Andersonville Trial, Actors’ NET, 635 North Delmorr Avenue, Morrisville, 215-295-3694. www.actorsnetbucks.org. Courtroom drama. $15. 8 p.m.
Greetings, Off-Broadstreet Theater, 5 South Greenwood Avenue, Hopewell, 609-466-2766. www.off-broadstreet.com. $25.50 to $27.25. 8 p.m.
Dinner Theater
Murder Mystery Dinner Theater, Omicron Theater Productions, Giordano’s Restaurant, 1644 Whitehorse-Mercerville Road, Mercerville, 609-443-5598. Dinner and interactive show. Reservations, $49. 7:30 p.m.
Dancing
Ballroom Dance Lesson and Social, Paula Ludo’s Ballroom, 23 Hankins Road, East Windsor, 908-534-0004. Swing workshop, $15; social, $15; both, $20. Register. 7 p.m.
Jersey Jumpers, Central Jersey Dance Society, Unitarian Church, 50 Cherry Hill Road, 609-945-1883. www.centraljerseydance.org. Beginning swing lesson, 7:30 p.m; intermediate lesson, 8 p.m. Open dance begins a 8:30 p.m. $11. 7:30 p.m.
Literati
Astrology, Old Book Shop, 200 Farnsworth Avenue, Bordentown, 609-324-9909. Susan Van Dongen presents an astrology discussion, booksigning, and birth charts. Writing under the pen name Gwyneth Bryan, she recently wrote the book, “Houses: A Contemporary Guide,” a modern look at house-based astrology. 6:30 p.m.
Classical Music
Messiah, Princeton Pro Musica, Richardson Auditorium, Princeton University, 609-683-5122. www.princetonpromusica.org. Handel’s classic featuring soloists Julianne Baird, Marietta Simpson, William Hite, and Matthew Burns. $38 and $45. 8 p.m.
Candles and Carols, Voices Chorale, Pennington Presbyterian Church, 13 South Main Street, Pennington, 609-637-9383. www.voiceschorale.org. Family holiday program of holiday music with candles and bells features soprano Rochelle Ellis in Vivaldi’s “Gloria.” Also works by Lauridsen, Bach, and popular seasonal music. Sing-along with Christmas carols. Lynne Ransom directs. $18 adults; $8 children. 8 p.m.
The group also performs at St. Paul Roman Catholic Church, 214 Nassau Street, Princeton, on Sunday, December 17, at 2:30 p.m.
Rochelle Ellis of West Windsor had her Carnegie Hall debut as soloist for the Schubert Mass in G and Bach’s Cantata 140. Her international concert debut was with the National Opera of China in Beijing with conductor Lyndon Woodside and the Oratorio Society of New York.
Kaleidoscope Chamber Series, Westminster Choir College, Bristol Chapel, 609-921-2663. www.rider.edu. Music for Midwinter features Westminster Conservatory faculty members performing seasonal music spanning six centuries for voice, flute, oboe, viola, cello, keyboard, and an assortment of medieval and Renaissance instruments. $15. 8 p.m.
Faculty members include Danielle Sinclair of Plainsboro, a soprano; Linda Mindlin, mezzo soprano; Kevin Willois, flute; Melissa Bohl, oboe d’amore and English horn; Margorie Selden, viola; Melissa Burton Anderson, cello; Clipper Erickson and Marianne Lauffer, piano; and Gavin Black, organ. Tim Urban and Melissa Bohl will play recorder, crumhorn, and hurdy-gurdy.
Jazz & Blues
Community Swing Dance, Princeton High School Studio Band, 151 Moore Street, 609-497-0697. First dance of the season by the award-winning band. Refreshments available. $5. 7 to 10 p.m.
Comedy Clubs
Joseph Anthony and Anthony Spinner, Catch a Rising Star, Hyatt Regency, 102 Carnegie Center, 609-987-8018. www.catcharisingstar.com. Reservation. $17.50 to $20. 8 and 10:30 p.m.
Faith
Chanukah Pot Luck Shabbat Dinner, Temple Micah, Lawrenceville Presbyterian Church, Route 206, 609-921-1128. www.temple-micah.org. Services at 7:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m.
Health & Wellness
Tai Chi, West Windsor Senior Center, 609-799-9068. Free. 8:15 a.m.
Blood Drive, American Red Cross, Mercadien Group, 3625 Quakerbridge Road, Trenton, 800-448-3543. www.pleasegiveblood.org. 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Kirtan Chanting, Integral Yoga of Princeton, 122 Carter Road, Princeton, 609-683-9199. www.integralyogaprinceton.org. Bring your own instruments. Children are welcome. Donations invited. 6:30 p.m.
History
Festival of Trees, Morven Museum, 55 Stockton Street, Princeton, 609-924-8144. www.morven.org. Thirteen galleries adorned for the holidays by area businesses and garden clubs. $5. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Kids Stuff
Sing and Play, West Windsor Library, 333 North Post Road, 609-799-0462. Visit from Santa. 10:30 a.m.
For Teens
Performance Friday, New Jersey Performing Youth Arts, Mary Jacobs Library, Washington Street, Rocky Hill, 908-881-5275. www.njperformingartsyouth.org. Music, poetry, comedy, stories, and performance art. Register. Free. 6:30 p.m.
Live Music
Arturo Romay, Sotto 128 Restaurant and Lounge, 128 Nassau Street, Princeton, 609-921-7555. www.sotto128.com. Latin jazz guitar. 6 to 9 p.m.
Karaoke Night, Europa at Monroe, 146 Applegarth Road, Monroe, 609-490-9500. www.europanj.com. 6:30 p.m.
Upper Princeton Swing Collective, Cornerstone Coffee, Route 31 and Tree Farm Road, Pennington, 609-730-0777. Big band favorites and contemporary styling of jazz standards. 7 to 9 p.m.
Mojo Gypsies, Sotto 128 Restaurant and Lounge, 128 Nassau Street, Princeton, 609-921-7555. www.sotto128.com. Rock, rhythm, and blues. 9 p.m.
Ron Kraemer Trio, Big Fish Seafood Bistro, MarketFair, Route 1 South, West Windsor, 609-919-1179. www.ronkraemer.com. 9:30 to 12:30 a.m.
Singles
Singles Without Children, Princeton Jewish Center, 435 Nassau Street, Princeton, 609-921-2782. Kabbalat Shabbat service, kiddush, and storytelling. 6:30 p.m.
Saturday December 16
Curbside Recycling
Mercer County Improvement Authority, West Windsor, 609-689-9960. www.mcia-nj.com. Yellow buckets for glass bottles and plastic. Green buckets for paper, cardboard, and books. Rain or shine. 7 a.m.
School Sports
High School North Swimming, Boys/Girls, 609-716-5000 ext. 5134. www.ww-p.org. Knight Swim Invitational. 9 a.m.
Dance
Sweets with the Nutcracker, Bach Ballet, 122 Main Street, Flemington, 609-773-0099. Hour-long performance and dessert. Silent auction. $12. 1 and 4 p.m.
The Nutcracker, State Theater, New Brunswick, 732-246-7469. www.statetheatrenj.org. American Repertory Ballet presents Graham Lustig’s “The Nutcracker” featuring more than 100 performers and live orchestration of Tchaikovsky’s score. Also, Sunday, December 17. $20 to $40. 1 and 8 p.m.
One Tough Nut, Professional Center for the Arts, Villa Victoria Academy Theater, 376 West Upper Ferry Road, Ewing, 609-586-3008. www.professionalcenterforthearts.com. Original full-length dance piece by New York choreographer Geoffrey Doig-Marx that puts a decidedly comic twist on the traditional “Nutcracker.” Doig-Marx, named “one of nine dancemakers making history” by Dance Spirit magazine, has re-set Act I in a school for wayward girls, and created an entirely new Act II, described as “Monty Python meets Alice in Wonderland,” with a wide range of music and theater dance styles. Also Sunday, December 17, at 3 p.m. $13. 7 p.m.
Drama
`Twas The Night Before Christmas, Kelsey Theater, Mercer County Community College, 1200 Old Trenton Road, 609-584-9444. www.kelseytheatre.net. Kelsey Players presents a family musical based on Clement Moore’s poem, “A Visit from St. Nicholas.” Audience members are invited to join in caroling before the performance. Also, Sunday, December 17, 2 and 4 p.m. $10. 11 a.m. , 2 and 4 p.m.
A Christmas Carol, McCarter Theater, 91 University Place, 609-258-2787. www.mccarter.org. Holiday favorite. $31 to $49. Audio described and American Sign Language interpreted performance at 1 p.m. show. Tickets are $10 for patrons benefiting from these services. 1 and 5:30 p.m.
Miracle on 34th Street, Somerset Valley Players, Amwell Road, Hillsborough, 908-369-7469. www.svptheatre.org. Family holiday tale featuring Kris Kringle. $10. 2 and 7 p.m.
You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown, Academy Theater, 146 Route 130, Bordentown, 609-291-9000. www.theacademytheatre.com. Musical. $25. 8 p.m.
The Andersonville Trial, Actors’ NET, 635 North Delmorr Avenue, Morrisville, 215-295-3694. www.actorsnetbucks.org. Courtroom drama. $15. 8 p.m.
Greetings, Off-Broadstreet Theater, 5 South Greenwood Avenue, Hopewell, 609-466-2766. www.off-broadstreet.com. $25.50 to $27.25. 8 p.m.
Dinner Theater
Murder Mystery Dinner Theater, Omicron Theater Productions, Giordano’s Restaurant, 1644 Whitehorse-Mercerville Road, Mercerville, 609-443-5598. Dinner and interactive show. Reservations, $49. 7:30 p.m.
Film
Children’s Movie Time, Robert Wood Johnson Hamilton Center for Health and Wellness, 3100 Quakerbridge Road, Mercerville, 609-584-5900. www.rwjhamilton.org. Screening of “The Polar Express.” Healthy snacks, hot cocoa, and a holiday project. Parents must sign a permission slip before leaving their child. For ages five and up. Register. $15. 1 p.m.
Art
The Art of Robert Mueller: Schema Watercolors, Roosevelt Arts Project, Eleanor Gallery, 15 Lake Drive, Roosevelt, 609-443-4421. www.music.columbia.edu/roosevelt. Exhibit open. $5. Noon.
Dancing
Salsa Sensation, Central Jersey Dance Society, Suzanne Patterson Center, 45 Stockton Road, Princeton, 609-945-1883. www.jerseyjumpers.org. Cha cha lessons with Mike Andino. Dance follows. $11. 7:30 p.m.
Literati
Anne Margaret Lewis, Barnes & Noble, MarketFair, West Windsor, 609-716-1570. Author of “Has Anyone Seen Christmas?” filled with fanciful illustrations. 2 p.m.
Classical Music
PSO Pops!, Princeton Symphony Orchestra, Richardson Auditorium, 609-497-0020. www.princetonsymphony.org. Annual family holiday concert features tenor Stuart Neill. A new holiday story, “Christmas with Mr. Grump,” will be read by Pam Hersh. Princeton High School Choir led by Charles Sundquist performs. Mark Laycock conducts the orchestra. Sing-along of favorite holiday tunes. $30. 4 p.m.
Voices of Angels, American Boychoir, Princeton University Chapel, Princeton, 888-BOYCHOIR. www.americanboychoir.org. Holiday concert features familiar carols and seasonal readings. $10 to $30. 8 p.m.
Concert, Greater Trenton Choral Society, Abiding Presence Lutheran Church, 2220 Pennington Road, Ewing, 609-324-9732. www.community.nj.com/cc/trentonchoral. Vivaldi’s “Gloria” and Christmas Carols as arranged by Willcocks and Rutter presented by the choral group conducted by Joseph Pucciatti with pianist Jo-Ann Rubay Sciarrotta. $15. 8 p.m.
Messiah, Princeton Pro Musica, Richardson Auditorium, Princeton University, 609-683-5122. www.princetonpromusica.org. Handel’s classic featuring soloists Julianne Baird, Marietta Simpson, William Hite, and Matthew Burns. $38 and $45. 8 p.m.
Westminster Conservatory Youth Chorale, Westminster Choir College, Bristol Chapel, 609-921-2663. www.rider.edu. “Light: A Concert for Chanukah” includes four works commissioned by the ensemble written by Michael Isaacson, Phil Orr, and Eduardo Lakschevitz; and “Five Hebrew Songs” by Eric Whitacre, “Lo Yisa Goy” by J.A. Kawarsky, and “Hanerot Halalu by Ronald A. Hemmel. The chorale is an honors choir for high school students led by Frank Abrahams. $15. 8 p.m.
Outdoor Concerts
Holiday Horns Quartet, Palmer Square, 609-921-2333. www.palmersquare.com. Christmas classics while strolling Palmer Square. Rain date is Sunday, December 17, 2 p.m. Free. 2 p.m.
Pop Music
Karen Mason, Berlind at McCarter Theater, 91 University Place, 609-258-2787. www.mccarter.org. Broadway star in Mamma Mia! and Sunset Boulevard. $40. 7:30 p.m.
Comedy Clubs
Joseph Anthony and Anthony Spinner, Catch a Rising Star, Hyatt Regency, 102 Carnegie Center, 609-987-8018. www.catcharisingstar.com. Reservation. $17.50 to $20. 8 and 10:30 p.m.
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
Van Horne Park, Rotue 206 and Princeton Avenue. Opening of the 95-acre park featuring a path system, playground facilities. Ballfields are not yet open. Restrooms, storage area, and a pavilion will be installed in the spring. 10 a.m.
Cops and Dogs
Barnes & Noble, 425 Marketplace Boulevard, Hamilton, 609-581-2523. www.bn.com. John Baer, a former NYPD police officer, presents “Cops and Dogs 2007,” a 12-month wall calendar featuring high quality color photos of law enforcement officers and their K-9 partners. Two officers and their dogs will visit and “pawtograph” the calendar. Fingerprinting for children. 1 p.m.
John Baer, a West Windsor resident, left the force in 1997 when he decided to pursue a career as a still photographer in the movie industry. His connection with the law enforcement community remains strong.
Faith
Come One, Come All, Community Christian Choirs, Robbinsville High School, 155 Robbinsville-Edinburg Road, Robbinsville, 609-587-7076. www.ccchoir.com. Christmas concert. Free-will offering. 7 p.m.
Health & Wellness
Blood Drive, American Red Cross, Holiday Inn, 399 Monmouth Street, Hightstown, 800-448-3543. www.pleasegiveblood.org. 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Tai Chi, West Windsor Senior Center, 609-799-9068. Free. 8:30 a.m.
Intro to EFT, Center for Relaxation and Healing, 666 Plainsboro Road, Suite 348, Plainsboro, 609-750-7432. www.relaxationandhealing.com. Holistic method for releasing stored emotions and negative habits. Register. Free, 11 a.m.
Drumming Workshop, Princeton Center for Yoga & Health, 50 Vreeland Drive, Suite 506, Skillman, 609-924-7294. www.princetonyoga.com. West African drumming presented by Mark Wood for those with little or no experience or those who want to hone their drumming skills. Basics including the three sound (base, tone, slap), the proper way to hold the drum, and basic rhythm. Register. $15. 6:30 p.m.
Rhythm, Dance, and Drumming Circle, Princeton Center for Yoga & Health, 50 Vreeland Drive, Suite 506, Skillman, 609-924-7294. www.princetonyoga.com. No musical experience or drum needed. $10. 8 p.m.
History
Festival of Trees, Morven Museum, 55 Stockton Street, Princeton, 609-924-8144. www.morven.org. Thirteen galleries adorned for the holidays by area businesses and garden clubs. $5. Noon to 4 p.m.
Colonial Kids, William Trent House, 15 Market Street, Trenton, 609-989-3027. www.williamtrenthouse.org. Hands-on activities for children 6-11 including quill pen writing, toys and games, and scented sachet making. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Children $1; Adults $2.50. 12:30 to 2 p.m.
The Ten Crucial Days, Washington Crossing State Park, Visitor Center Museum, Titusville, 609-737-9303. Using diaries and letters of the participants, Clay Craighead gives a lecture on the significance of December 25, 1776 to January 3, 1777. The museum featuring more than 500 colonial artifacts opens at 9 a.m. Free. 2 to 4 p.m.
Kids Stuff
Chess, West Windsor Library, 333 North Post Road, 609-799-0462. Ages six and up. 10 a.m.
S4S, West Windsor Library, 333 North Post Road, 609-799-0462. Free tutoring for grades 1 to 8. 10:30 a.m.
For Families
Demonstration Class, Music Together, Hopewell, 609-924-7801. www.cmyc.com. Sample a music and movement class. Register. Free. 9:30 a.m.
Holiday Light Spectacular, PNC Bank Arts Center, Holmdel, 732-335-8698. www.livenation.com. Drive-through light park features more than 2 million lights in more than 100 displays of holiday spirit created by Brandano Displays. Benefit for area charities. Open through Sunday, December 31. $15 per car. 5 to 10:30 p.m.
For Teens
Stamp Club, Princeton Public Library, 65 Witherspoon Street, 609-924-9529. www.princetonlibrary.org. Debut for young people ages nine and up to examine the origins of stamps and receive guidance for building a stamp collection. 3 p.m.
Family Theater
Twas the Night Before Christmas, Villagers Theater, 475 DeMott Lane, Somerset, 732-873-2210. www.villagerstheatre.com. Family show based on the Clement Moore poem. $10. Noon.
Live Music
Larry Tritel, Orpha’s Coffee Shop, 1330 Route 206, Skillman, 609-430-2828. www.orphas.com. 9 a.m. to noon.
Arturo Romay, Spigola Restaurant, Deer Path Pavilion, Route 130 and Klockner Road, Hamilton, 609-585-5255. www.arturoromay.com. Latin jazz guitar. 6 to 9 p.m.
Live Country Music Show, WDVR 89.7 and 91.9 FM, Kingswood Township Fire Company, 609-397-1620. www.WDVRFM.org. Food available. $10 donation. 6 to 8 p.m.
Joe Federico, Java Moon Cafe, 4110 Quakerbridge Road, Lawrenceville, 609-275-7447. Jazz guitar. 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.
Tony Mennella and Dick Braytenbah Trio, Hopewell Bistro, 15 East Broad Street, Hopewell, 609-466-9889. www.hopewellvalleybistro.com. Sinatra-style vocals. $15 minimum. 7 p.m.
New Jersey Opera Theater HolidayFare, Grounds For Sculpture, 18 Fairgrounds Road, Hamilton, 609-689-1089. www.groundsforsculpture.org. Wide variety of sacred and secular holiday music in concert by the members of the young artist program. Traditional favorites and holiday classics presented as a sing-along. Free. 7:30 p.m.
Zolof the Rock and Roll Destroyer, Marigold, and Distorted Penguins, The 449 Room, 449 South Broad, Trenton, 609-989-7777. www.449room.com. $5. 8 p.m.
Cafe Improv, Arts Council of Princeton, Princeton Shopping Center, 609-924-8777. www.cafeimprov.com. An open stage features music, poetry, and comedy. Televised live on cable channel 30. Sign up on website. $1. 9 p.m.
Selkow and the 2nd Coming Band, Finnigan’s, 529 Route 130 North, East Windsor, 609-448-8012. www.capitalcityconcerts.com. $5. 9 p.m.
Maggie Hill and Jerry Steele, Sotto 128 Restaurant and Lounge, 128 Nassau Street, Princeton, 609-921-7555. www.sotto128.com. Blues, folk, and rock. 9 p.m.
Outdoor Action
Winter Stories and Crafts, Stony Brook Millstone Watershed, 31 Titus Mill Road, Pennington, 609-737-7592. www.thewatershed.org. Winter tales, hot cocoa, and crafts for ages 3 to 9. Register. $8. 10 a.m. to noon.
Natural Holiday Ornaments, Washington Crossing State Park, Visitor Center, Titusville, 609-737-0609. Invent your own nature ornaments with an assortment of cones, berries, dried seeds, pods, and natural structure. Register. $3. 1 to 3 p.m.
Family Nature Program, Plainsboro Preserve, 80 Scotts Corner Road, Plainsboro, 609-897-9400. www.njaudubon.org. Optics workshop and bird walk. Register. $5. 2:30 p.m.
Singles
Chanukah Party, Jewish Singles of Mercer County. www.mercerjewishsingles.org. Register on line. Call for time.
Sports
Princeton Basketball, Jadwin Gym, 609-258-3538. Marshall. 4 p.m.
Sunday December 17
Dance
Sweets with the Nutcracker, Bach Ballet, 122 Main Street, Flemington, 609-773-0099. Hour-long performance and dessert. Silent auction. $12. 1 and 4 p.m.
The Nutcracker, State Theater, New Brunswick, 732-246-7469. www.statetheatrenj.org. American Repertory Ballet presents Graham Lustig’s “The Nutcracker” featuring more than 100 performers and live orchestration of Tchaikovsky’s score. $25 to $45. 1 and 4:30 p.m.
One Tough Nut, Professional Center for the Arts, Villa Victoria Academy Theater, 376 West Upper Ferry Road, Ewing, 609-586-3008. www.professionalcenterforthearts.com. Original full-length dance piece by New York choreographer Geoffrey Doig-Marx that puts a decidedly comic twist on the traditional “Nutcracker.” Doig-Marx, named “one of nine dancemakers making history” by Dance Spirit magazine, has re-set Act I in a school for wayward girls, and created an entirely new Act II, described as “Monty Python meets Alice in Wonderland,” with a wide range of music and theater dance styles. Also Sunday, December 17, at 3 p.m. $13. Tickets available at the door. 3 p.m.
Drama
A Christmas Carol, McCarter Theater, 91 University Place, 609-258-2787. www.mccarter.org. Holiday favorite. $31 to $49. 1 and 5:30 p.m.
`Twas The Night Before Christmas, Kelsey Theater, Mercer County Community College, 1200 Old Trenton Road, 609-584-9444. www.kelseytheatre.net. Kelsey Players presents a family musical based on Clement Moore’s poem, “A Visit from St. Nicholas.” Audience members are invited to join in caroling before the performance. $10. 2 p.m. and 4 p.m.
The Andersonville Trial, Actors’ NET, 635 North Delmorr Avenue, Morrisville, 215-295-3694. www.actorsnetbucks.org. Courtroom drama. $15. 6 p.m.
Art
The Art of Robert Mueller: Schema Watercolors, Roosevelt Arts Project, Eleanor Gallery, 15 Lake Drive, Roosevelt, 609-443-4421. www.music.columbia.edu/roosevelt. Exhibit open. $5. Noon.
Literati
Sunday Poetry Readings, South Brunswick Arts Commission, South Brunswick Library, Kingston Lane, Monmouth Junction, 732-329-4000. Readings by Ed Belding, Joyce Greenberg Lott, Shandy Walton, and Adam Fitzgerald followed by an open reading. A donation of a non-perishable food item for the food pantry is requested. 2 p.m.
Classical Music
Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra, Sovereign Bank Arena, 81 Hamilton Avenue at Route 129, Trenton, 609-520-8383. www.sovereignbankarena.com. Family friendly program of holiday favorites, a visit from Santa, and a sing-along. $35 to $85. 1 p.m.
Candles and Carols, Voices Chorale, St. Paul Roman Catholic Church, 214 Nassau Street, Princeton, 609-637-9383. www.voiceschorale.org. Family holiday program of holiday music with candles and bells features soprano Rochelle Ellis in Vivaldi’s “Gloria.” Also works by Lauridsen, Bach, and popular seasonal music. Sing-along with Christmas carols. Lynne Ransom directs. $18 adults; $8 children. 2:30 p.m.
Rochelle Ellis of West Windsor had her Carnegie Hall debut as soloist for the Schubert Mass in G and Bach’s Cantata 140. Her international concert debut was with the National Opera of China in Beijing with conductor Lyndon Woodside and the Oratorio Society of New York.
Christmas Holiday Spectacular, Greater Trenton Symphony Orchestra, Patriots Theater, War Memorial, Trenton, 609-396-5522. www.trentonsymphony.org. Holiday music includes works by Leroy Anderson, Leon Jessel, Victor Herbert, and Holcombe. John Peter Holly, conductor; Marvis Martin, soprano; and the Trenton Children’s Chorus conducted by Victor Shen. $20 to $40. 3 p.m.
New Jersey Opera Theater HolidayFare, Zimmerli Art Museum, George and Hamilton streets, New Brunswick, 732-932-7237. www.zimmerlimuseum.rutgers.edu. Wide variety of sacred and secular holiday music in concert by the members of the young artist program. Traditional favorites and holiday classics presented as a sing-along. $3 museum admission. 3 p.m.
Winter Wonderland, American Boychoir, Richardson Auditorium, Princeton University, 888-BOYCHOIR. www.americanboychoir.org. Traditional holiday favorites and audience sing-a-long. $20 to $42. 4 p.m.
Westminster Community Orchestra, Westminster Choir College, Princeton High School, 609-921-2663. www.rider.edu. The program includes Ravel’s Mother Goose Suite, Prokofiev’s Lieutenant Kiji Suite, and Mendelssohn’s Symphony No. 5 Reformation. A highlight will be the world premiers of Beth Gaynor LaPat’s Winter Fantasy, written to celebrate the orchestra’s 20th anniversary. Conducted by Ruth Ochs. $15. 8 p.m.
Westminster Community Chorus, Westminster Choir College, Bristol Chapel, 609-921-2663. www.rider.edu. Annual Christmas concert conducted by Devin Mariman. $15. 8 p.m.
Pop Music
Home for the Holidays, Millstone Valley Chorus, College of New Jersey, Mayo Concert Hall, 908-904-8090. www.millstonevalley.org. Concert featuring holiday hymns, carols, and other favorites, sung with Brothers in Harmony. The finale features Debby Connolly, lead singer of the Buzz, the 2006 international quartet champions of Sweet Adelines. 3 p.m.
Good Causes
Holiday Shopping Benefit, Ten Thousand Villages, Princeton Shopping Center, Harrison Street, 609-683-4464. www.tenthousandvillages.com. Handcrafted gifts and decorations made by artisans in disadvantaged areas of Africa, Asia and Latin America. Concert of holiday music presented by the Princeton Area Homeschool Choir. Ranging in age from 12 to 18, the choristers sing songs from their recent tour to Washington, D.C. Sales benefit the organization. 1 to 5 p.m.
RADD Raising Awareness Destination: Darfur, Princeton Public Library, 65 Witherspoon Street, 609-924-8822. www.princetonlibrary.org. Princeton-area student group discusses programs, raises awareness, and takes action about the human rights crisis and genocide in the Darfur region of Sudan. 3 p.m.
Communities of Light, Womanspace, Mercer, Hunterdon, and Somerset counties, 609-394-0136. www.womanspace.org. Residents and businesses light luminary candles along driveways and sidewalks throughout a three-county area to raise awareness of domestic violence and sexual assault while raising funds to support Womanspace services. Candle kit, $10, is available at area stores or from Womanspace. 5 p.m.
Morven Museum and Garden, with Dr. Nancy Snyderman, this year’s honorary chair; Congressman Rush Holt; and Womanspace CEO Patricia Hart. Music by the TartanTones of Stuart Day School. Refreshments by McCaffrey’s. Nassau Street will be aglow with candles. On Sunday, September 17, luminary candles lit throughout a three-county area raise awareness of domestic violence and sexual assault and benefit Womanspace services. Candle kit, $10. 5:30 p.m.
Begun in 2001 by Womanspace, Communities of Light is the most successful awareness and fundraising campaign in Womanspace history. The project has expanded to include Women’s Crisis Services of Hunterdon County and the Resource Center for Women and Families of Somerset County.
Faith
Chanukah Wonderland, Chabad of the Windsors, McCaffreys’s, Princeton-Hightstown Road, West Windsor, 609-448-9369. www.chabadwindsor.com. Arts, crafts, games, and Chanukah entertainment. Also Monday, December 18, 3 to 6 p.m. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Dedication Ceremony, Abrams Hebrew Academy, 31 West College Avenue, Yardley, PA, 215-493-1800. Dedication of the Link of Abrams Hebrew Academy, the Beit Aliza Chavurah for Girls, an the Beit Aliza Tora in memory of Aliza Rachel Levites. Featured speaker is Blu Greenberg, a noted Orthodox feminist speaker and author. Aliza Rachel was killed in a car accident in 2005 at the age of 24. Light lunch follows the ceremony. 11 a.m.
Chanukah Bowl Celebration, Chabad of the Windsors, Brunswick Lanes, 529 Route 130, East Windsor, 609-448-9369. www.chabadwindsor.com. Unlimited bowling, pita and falafel dinner, Menorah lighting ceremony, latkes, donuts, and prizes. $15 adults; $12 children. Register. 5 to 7 p.m.
Candlelit Holiday Peace Service, Menlha Buddhist Center, 243 Union Street, Lambertville, 609-252-0977. www.meditationinnewjersey.org. Meditations of the Buddha of compassion guided by Gen Kelsang Norden. All are welcome. 6 p.m.
Simbang Gabi, Church of Saint Ann, 1253 Lawrence Road, Lawrenceville, 609-882-6491. www.churchofsaintann.net. Traditional Filipino pre-Christmas Mass and celebration. Free. 7 p.m.
Food & Dining
Book Signing, The Ferry House, 32 Witherspoon Street, Princeton, 800-843-7231. Meet Bobby Trigg, author of the new cookbook, “The Ferry House Cookbook: A Taste of Princeton.” Also on December 23. Books for sale. Noon to 3 p.m.
History
Festival of Trees, Morven Museum, 55 Stockton Street, Princeton, 609-924-8144. www.morven.org. Thirteen galleries adorned for the holidays by area businesses and garden clubs. $5. Noon to 4 p.m.
Colonial Kids, William Trent House, 15 Market Street, Trenton, 609-989-3027. www.williamtrenthouse.org. Hands-on activities for children 6-11 including quill pen writing, toys and games, and scented sachet making. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Children $1; Adults $2.50. 12:30 to 2 p.m.
Plainsboro Museum, Wicoff House, 641 Plainsboro Road, 609-799-9040. www.plainsborohistory.com. Plainsboro’s history featured in 18 exhibits from 6,”000 years ago to the present day including Walker-Gordon Farm and Elsie the cow memorabilia, a fire department and rescue squad exhibit, and railroad artifacts. Free. 2 to 4:30 p.m.
For Families
Winter Tales, Grounds For Sculpture, 18 Fairgrounds Road, Hamilton, 609-689-1089. www.groundsforsculpture.org. “Hans Brinker or the Silver Skates” read by poet, musician, and artist, D.J. Haslett. Free with park admission. 1:30 p.m.
Yogic Hoopla, Integral Yoga of Princeton, 237 Christopher Drive, Princeton, 609-683-1398. www.integralyogaprinceton.org. Music, singing, sharing, show and tell, slide show, and vegetarian pot luck. Register. 4 to 8 p.m.
Family Theater
Twas the Night Before Christmas, Villagers Theater, 475 DeMott Lane, Somerset, 732-873-2210. www.villagerstheatre.com. Family show based on the Clement Moore poem. $10. Noon and 3 p.m.
Live Music
Arturo Romay, Sotto 128 Restaurant and Lounge, 128 Nassau Street, Princeton, 609-921-7555. www.sotto128.com. Latin jazz guitar. 5 to 8 p.m.
Moon Cats, Alchemist & Barrister, 28 Witherspoon Street, Princeton, 609-924-5555. www.movingup88.com. Classic oldies with an acoustic electrid spin. 9:30 p.m.
Schools
Open House, Princeton Charter School, 575 Ewing Street, Princeton, 609-924-0575. www.princetoncharter.org. Tours, meet the faculty, and learn about the curriculum and educational program. PCS is a public school for grades kindergarten to eighth. Princeton students have first priority for enrollment. 1 to 3 p.m.
Socials
Chess, Plainsboro Public Library, 641 Plainsboro Road, 609-275-2897. www.lmxac.org/Plainsboro. Advanced chess players meet. 1 to 5 p.m.
Monday December 18
School Sports
High School South Ice Hockey, 609-716-5000 ext. 5134. www.ww-p.org. Notre Dame. 4 p.m.
High School North Ice Hockey, 609-716-5000 ext. 5134. www.ww-p.org. At Ewing. 6:45 p.m.
Drama
`Twas The Night Before Christmas, Kelsey Theater, Mercer County Community College, 1200 Old Trenton Road, 609-584-9444. www.kelseytheatre.net. Kelsey Players presents a family musical based on Clement Moore’s poem, “A Visit from St. Nicholas.” $7. 9:45 a.m. and 11:15 p.m.
Pop Music
Canadian Brass, McCarter Theater, Richardson Auditorium, Princeton University, 609-258-2787. www.mccarter.org. Brass music for the Christmas holiday season. $39 to $45. 7:30 p.m.
Faith
Chanukah Wonderland, Chabad of the Windsors, McCaffreys’s, Princeton-Hightstown Road, West Windsor, 609-448-9369. www.chabadwindsor.com. Arts, crafts, games, and Chanukah entertainment. 3 to 6 p.m.
Kids Stuff
Open House, Kids Music Round, Princeton Community Church, 2300 Pennington Road, Pennington, 609-333-0100. www.kidsmusicround.com. Ages to four with adult. Register. 10 a.m.
For Families
Demonstration Class, Music Together, Princeton, 609-924-7801. www.cmyc.com. Sample a music and movement class. Register. Free. 9:15 a.m.
Live Music
John Bianculli, Salt Creek Grille, One Rockingham Row, Forrestal Village, Plainsboro, 609-419-4200. www.saltcreekgrille.com. Solo piano. 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Tuesday December 19
School Sports
For WW-P school sports information, call the hotline: 609-716-5000, ext. 5134.
High School North Swimming, Boys/Girls. Hightstown. 4 p.m.
High School South Swimming, Boys/Girls. Princeton. 4 p.m.
High School North Ice Hockey. Manasquan. 4:15 p.m.
High School North Boys Basketball. Hightstown. 7 p.m.
High School North Girl Basketball. At Hightstown. 7 p.m.
High School South Boys Basketball. Nottingham. 7 p.m.
High School South Girls Basketball. At Nottingham 7 p.m.
Drama
`Twas The Night Before Christmas, Kelsey Theater, Mercer County Community College, 1200 Old Trenton Road, 609-584-9444. www.kelseytheatre.net. Kelsey Players presents a family musical based on Clement Moore’s poem, “A Visit from St. Nicholas.” $7. 9:45 a.m. and 11:15 p.m.
Dancing
Ballroom Dance Lesson and Social, Paula Ludo’s Ballroom, 23 Hankins Road, East Windsor, 908-534-0004. Class, $5; social, $17. Register. 7 p.m.
Classical Music
Lawrence Sight Reading Orchestra, Senior Center, 30 East Darrah Lane, Lawrenceville, 732-438-9704. Classical musical instrumentalists are invited to work on their skills in works by Beethoven, Mozart, and Brahms. $10. 7:30 p.m.
Pop Music
Cheetah Girls, Sovereign Bank Arena, 81 Hamilton Avenue at Route 129, Trenton, 609-520-8383. www.sovereignbankarena.com. Pop, rock, and rhythm and blues. $29.50 and $39.50. 7 p.m.
Faith
Menorah Lighting, Palmer Square, North Hulfish Plaza, 800-644-3489. www.palmersquare.com. Ceremony includes guest speakers, David Newton, Palmer Square Management; Rabbi Dubov; and Mayor Phyllis Marchard. Omeg Shemesh presents a combination of hip concepts with traditional Jewish melodies. Rain or shine. Free. 5 p.m.
Health & Wellness
Chi Kung, Ruth A. Golush, 666 Plainsboro Road, Suite 348, Plainsboro, 609-426-9693. Register. $20. 7 p.m.
Lectures
Plainsboro Historical Society, Wicoff House, 609-799-9040. www.plainsborohistory.com. Business meeting. 7:30 p.m.
Kids Stuff
Storytime and Craft, West Windsor Library, 333 North Post Road, 609-799-0462. 10:30 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Lectures
Princeton MacIntosh Users Group, Jadwin Hall A-10, Washington Road, 609-258-5730. www.pmug-nj.org. Holiday party features a silent raffle of an iPod nano and a swap meet of Apple products. 6 p.m.
Business Meetings
JobSeekers, Parish Hall entrance, Trinity Church, 33 Mercer Street, 609-924-2277. www.trinityprinceton.org. Networking and support for changing jobs or careers. 7:30 p.m.
Live Music
John Bianculli, Salt Creek Grille, One Rockingham Row, Forrestal Village, Plainsboro, 609-419-4200. www.saltcreekgrille.com. Solo piano. 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Wendy Zoffer Trio, Witherspoon Grill, 57 Witherspoon Street, Princeton, 609-924-6011. www.princetonmusic.com. Blues, standards, samba, and swing with Jeff Duffield, keyboard; Brian Glassman, bass; and Wendy Zoffer, flute. 6:30 p.m.
John Bianculli, Salt Creek Grille, One Rockingham Row, Forrestal Village, Plainsboro, 609-419-4200. www.saltcreekgrille.com. Solo piano. 7 p.m.
Singles
Princeton Singles, Off-Broadstreet Theater, South Greenwood Avenue, Hopewell, 732-613-1682. “Greetings,” a holiday show by Tom Dudzick. Register. Noon.
Princeton Singles, Elks Club, Route 518, Blawenberg, 908-359-1855. Lunch for ages 55-plus. Register. $4. Noon.
Sports
10-Mile Championship, USA Track and Field Association of New Jersey, Mercer County Park, West Windsor. Call for time.
Wednesday December 20
Drama
A Christmas Carol, McCarter Theater, 91 University Place, 609-258-2787. www.mccarter.org. Holiday favorite. $31 to $49. 7:30 p.m.
Art
Art Workshop, Murdoch Art Studio, The Art Station, 148 Monmouth Street, Hightstown, 609-638-6555. www.murdochart.com. Open drawing or painting workshop. Live model will pose for three-hour session. Non-instructed workshop. Register. $15. 1 to 4 p.m.
Classical Music
Westminster Symphonic Choir, Westminster Choir College, Riverside Church, New York City, 609-921-2663. www.rider.edu. Handel’s Messiah. Through Saturday, December 23. 7:30 p.m.
Pop Music
Winter Concert, Mercer County Symphonic Band, Mercer County College, Kelsey Theater, 609-584-9444. www.mccc.edu. Annual concert features traditional band music, holiday tunes, and patriotic songs. Audience participation is invited for the sing along of holiday music. Free. 8 p.m.
The sixty member ensemble includes area musicians ranging in age from 14 to 82, including a number of same-family members, is led by Louis Woodruff. The band is supported by Mercer County Community College and through a grant from the Mercer County Cultural and Heritage Commission and the New Jersey State Council on the Arts.
The program includes the National Anthem, Washington Post March (Sousa), The Cowboys (John Williams), Shadow Mountain (Frank Ericson), Irving Berlin Showstoppers, Hoagy Carmichael in Concert, Lerner and Loewe in Concert, and Proud Spirit (James Swearingen).
The holiday portion of the program includes Christmas Festival (Leroy Anderson), Christmas Tryptich (a suite of selections from various composers), Canadian Brass Christmas, Russian Christmas Music (Alfred Reed), two Chanukah tunes arranged by Woodruff, a Christmas sing along, and Sleigh Ride (Leroy Anderson). The concert ends with Sousa’s Stars and Stripes Forever.
“There are no auditions,” says Woodruff. “Musicians are invited to sit in and make their own decision about continued involvement. However, we do maintain a challenging standard, which has inspired the musicians who participate.” Rehearsals are Monday evenings at the college. Call 609-586-4800 ext. 3735 for information.
Faith
Carols of Many Nations, Princeton Theological Seminary, Miller Chapel, 609-497-7890. www.ptsem.edu. Biennial Christmas tradition offers two services as a counterpoint to the traditional Lessons and Carols service. Carols sung from countries on each continent. Services led by Nancy Lammers Gross at 6:30 and Iain Torrance at 8:30 p.m. Carol by candlelight on seminary quadrangle following service. Open to the community. 6:30 and 8:30 p.m.
Food & Dining
Taste of Spain, Europa at Monroe, 146 Applegarth Road, Monroe, 609-490-9500. www.europanj.com. Five course menu and wine pairing dinner. Register. $38. 6:30 p.m.
Health & Wellness
Pi Gu, Ruth A. Golush, East Windsor, 609-426-9693. For weight control. Register. $20. 10 a.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Blood Drive, American Red Cross, 707 Alexander Road, Training Room, 800-GIVELIFE. www.pleasegiveblood.org. Walk-ins are welcome. Monday through Thursday, 1:30 to 7:30 p.m.; Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. 1:30 to 7:30 p.m.
History
Festival of Trees, Morven Museum, 55 Stockton Street, Princeton, 609-924-8144. www.morven.org. Thirteen galleries adorned for the holidays by area businesses and garden clubs. $5. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Kids Stuff
Storytime and Craft, West Windsor Library, 333 North Post Road, 609-799-0462. 10:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m.
Live Music
Wendy Zoffer Trio, Fedora Cafe, 2633 Main Street, Lawrenceville, 609-895-0844. Standards, blues, sambas, and swing. 6 p.m.
Thursday December 21
School Sports
For WW-P school sports information, call the hotline: 609-716-5000, ext. 5134.
High School North Ice Hockey. Hopewell Valley. 4 p.m.
High School South Swimming, Boys/Girls. Montgomery. 4 p.m.
High School North Swimming, Boys/Girls. At Hopewell Valley. 6:45 p.m.
Drama
A Christmas Carol, McCarter Theater, 91 University Place, 609-258-2787. www.mccarter.org. Holiday classic by Charles Dickens adapted by David Thompson and directed by Michael Unger features Paul Benedict in the title role. Through December 24. $31 to $49. 7:30 p.m.
Holiday Happenings, Actors’ NET, 635 North Delmorr Avenue, Morrisville, 215-295-3694. www.actorsnetbucks.org. Holiday one-acts by Joe Doyle include “Santa and the Christmas Pig” and “From Bethlehem with Love.” Also, a holiday concert and sing-along. Through Saturday, December 23. $15. 8 p.m.
Literati
Poetry Workshop, Delaware Valley Poets, Lawrence Public Library, Darrah Lane, 609-882-9246. www.delawarevalleypoets.com. Visitors welcome. Bring 15 copies of your poem. Free. 7:30 p.m.
Classical Music
Winter Concert, Princeton High School Choir, Princeton University Chapel, 609-806-4280. Free. 7:30 p.m.
Food & Dining
Taste of Italy, Europa at Monroe, 146 Applegarth Road, Monroe, 609-490-9500. www.europanj.com. Five course menu and wine pairing dinner. Register. $38. 6:30 p.m.
History
Festival of Trees, Morven Museum, 55 Stockton Street, Princeton, 609-924-8144. www.morven.org. Thirteen galleries adorned for the holidays by area businesses and garden clubs. $5. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
For Families
Demonstration Class, Music Together, East Brunswick and Plainsboro, 609-924-7801. www.cmyc.com. Sample a music and movement class. Register. Free. 9:15 a.m.
Lectures
55-Plus, Jewish Center of Princeton, 435 Nassau Street, 609-737-2001. www.princetonol.com. “Secular Enchantment: Why It’s Important to Believe that Darwin Loves You” presented by George Levine, former professor of literature at Rutgers. Free. 10 a.m.
Meet, Mix, and Mingle, Women Interested in Networking, Tassara Restaurant, 812 Route 33, Hamilton, 609-890-4054. www.whoscoming.com/win. Networking for women only. $12. Noon.
Live Music
John Bianculli, Salt Creek Grille, One Rockingham Row, Forrestal Village, Plainsboro, 609-419-4200. www.saltcreekgrille.com. Solo piano. 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Meg Hanson Duo, Java Moon Cafe, 4110 Quakerbridge Road, Lawrenceville, 609-275-7447. Featuring Billy Hill. 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.
Arturo Romay, Mediterra, 14 Hulfish Street, 609-252-9680. www.arturoromay.com. Latin jazz guitar. 7 to 10 p.m.
Greg Cagno, Sotto 128 Restaurant and Lounge, 128 Nassau Street, Princeton, 609-921-7555. www.sotto128.com. Guitar and vocals. 7:30 to 10 p.m.
The Track Record, Southcott, and Amora Bliss, The 449 Room, 449 South Broad, Trenton, 609-989-7777. www.449room.com. $5. 8 p.m.
Socials
National Testing Day, Central New Jersey’s MENSA, Hillsborough Municipal Building, 379 South Branch Road, Hillsborough, 732-494-5826. Walk-in qualification test is composed of questions involving logic and deductive reasoning. Photo ID required. Ages 14 and older. $30 processing fee for the test. 7 p.m.
Friday December 22
School Sports
For WW-P school sports information, call the hotline: 609-716-5000, ext. 5134.
High School South Swimming, Boys/Girls. Robbinsville. 2 p.m.
High School North Girl Basketball. WW-P South. 5:30 p.m.
High School South Girls Basketball. At WW-P North. 5:30 p.m.
High School North Boys Basketball. WW-P South. 7:30 p.m.
High School South Boys Basketball. At WW-P North. 7:30 p.m.
Dance
The Nutcracker, Kelsey Theater, Mercer County Community College, 1200 Old Trenton Road, 609-584-9444. www.kelseytheatre.net. Belle Mead Ballet in one hour narrated performance. Also, Saturday, December 23. $12. 7 p.m.
Drama
A Christmas Carol, McCarter Theater, 91 University Place, 609-258-2787. www.mccarter.org. Holiday classic by Charles Dickens adapted by David Thompson and directed by Michael Unger features Paul Benedict in the title role. Through December 24. $31 to $49. 7:30 p.m.
Holiday Happenings, Actors’ NET, 635 North Delmorr Avenue, Morrisville, 215-295-3694. www.actorsnetbucks.org. Holiday one-acts by Joe Doyle include “Santa and the Christmas Pig” and “From Bethlehem with Love.” Also, a holiday concert and sing-along. Through Saturday, December 23. $15. 8 p.m.
Dinner Theater
Murder Mystery Dinner Theater, Omicron Theater Productions, Giordano’s Restaurant, 1644 Whitehorse-Mercerville Road, Mercerville, 609-443-5598. Dinner and interactive show. Reservations, $49. 7:30 p.m.
Dancing
Movement Workshop, Dance Improv Live, All Saints’ Church, 16 All Saints’ Road, Princeton, 609-924-3767. www.danceimprov.com. A lightly structured movement workshop for adults to express themselves to live music. Bare feet and comfy clothes recommended. $12. 8 to 10 p.m.
Comedy Clubs
Jimmy Grapham and Jeff Collins, Catch a Rising Star, Hyatt Regency, 102 Carnegie Center, 609-987-8018. www.catcharisingstar.com. Reservation. $17.50 to $20. 8 and 10:30 p.m.
Health & Wellness
Blood Drive, American Red Cross, Trenton County Club, 201 Sullivan Way, West Trenton, 800-448-3543. www.pleasegiveblood.org. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
History
Festival of Trees, Morven Museum, 55 Stockton Street, Princeton, 609-924-8144. www.morven.org. Thirteen galleries adorned for the holidays by area businesses and garden clubs. $5. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
For Families
Holiday Passport Party, The Wacky Gym Family Fun Place, 1300 Windsor Road, West Windsor, 609-918-9090. Travel the world for traditional cultural celebrations including Kwanzaa, Chanukah, and Christmas. Laser tag, rock climbing walls, dance pads, storytelling, and inflatable jumps. Ages 7 and up. Register. 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Live Music
John Bianculli, Salt Creek Grille, One Rockingham Row, Forrestal Village, Plainsboro, 609-419-4200. www.saltcreekgrille.com. Solo piano. 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Arturo Romay, Sotto 128 Restaurant and Lounge, 128 Nassau Street, Princeton, 609-921-7555. www.sotto128.com. Latin jazz guitar. 6 to 9 p.m.
Karaoke Night, Europa at Monroe, 146 Applegarth Road, Monroe, 609-490-9500. www.europanj.com. 6:30 p.m.
15 Keys and Patrick Mystery, The 449 Room, 449 South Broad, Trenton, 609-989-7777. www.449room.com. $5. 8 p.m.
Joe Vadala and Fran Smith of the Hooters, Sotto 128 Restaurant and Lounge, 128 Nassau Street, Princeton, 609-921-7555. www.sotto128.com. Rock covers and originals. 9 p.m.
Singles
Divorce Recovery Support Group, Princeton Church of Christ, 33 River Road, Princeton, 609-581-3889. Open discussion. Free. 7:30 p.m.
Socials
Community Caroling Event, First Presbyterian Church of Plainsboro, Plainsboro Shopping Center, 609-799-0855. www.fpcpnj.org. 6 to 7 p.m.
For Seniors
Mercer County Widows and Widowers, Knights of Columbus, 1451 Klockner Road, Hamilton, 609-585-3453. Dance social, $7. 7:30 p.m.
Sports
Trenton Titans Hockey, Sovereign Bank Arena, Hamilton Avenue at Route 129, 609-599-9500. www.trentontitans.com. Dayton. $10.50 to $20.50 7:30 p.m.
Saturday December 23
School Sports
High School South Boys Basketball, 609-716-5000 ext. 5134. www.ww-p.org. Hillsborough. 1 p.m.
Dance
The Nutcracker, Kelsey Theater, Mercer County Community College, 1200 Old Trenton Road, 609-584-9444. www.kelseytheatre.net. Belle Mead Ballet. Also, Saturday, December 23. $12. 2 and 4 p.m.
Drama
A Christmas Carol, McCarter Theater, 91 University Place, 609-258-2787. www.mccarter.org. Holiday classic by Charles Dickens adapted by David Thompson and directed by Michael Unger features Paul Benedict in the title role. Through December 24. $31 to $49. 1 and 5:30 p.m.
Holiday Happenings, Actors’ NET, 635 North Delmorr Avenue, Morrisville, 215-295-3694. www.actorsnetbucks.org. Holiday one-acts by Joe Doyle include “Santa and the Christmas Pig” and “From Bethlehem with Love.” Also, a holiday concert and sing-along. $15. 8 p.m.
Dinner Theater
Murder Mystery Dinner Theater, Omicron Theater Productions, Giordano’s Restaurant, 1644 Whitehorse-Mercerville Road, Mercerville, 609-443-5598. Dinner and interactive show. Reservations, $49. 7:30 p.m.
Comedy Clubs
Jimmy Grapham and Jeff Collins, Catch a Rising Star, Hyatt Regency, 102 Carnegie Center, 609-987-8018. www.catcharisingstar.com. Reservation. $17.50 to $20. 8 and 10:30 p.m.
Food & Dining
Book Signing, The Ferry House, 32 Witherspoon Street, Princeton, 800-843-7231. Meet Bobby Trigg, author of the new cookbook, “The Ferry House Cookbook: A Taste of Princeton.” Books for sale. Noon to 3 p.m.
History
Festival of Trees, Morven Museum, 55 Stockton Street, Princeton, 609-924-8144. www.morven.org. Thirteen galleries adorned for the holidays by area businesses and garden clubs. $5. Noon to 4 p.m.
Colonial Kids, William Trent House, 15 Market Street, Trenton, 609-989-3027. www.williamtrenthouse.org. Hands-on activities for children 6-11 including quill pen writing, toys and games, and scented sachet making. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Children $1; Adults $2.50. 12:30 to 2 p.m.
Lantern Walking Tours, Johnson Ferry House, Washington Crossing State Park, 609-737-2515. Tours begin at the Nelson House. Register. $5. 6:45 and 7:15 p.m.
For Families
Holiday Passport Party, The Wacky Gym Family Fun Place, 1300 Windsor Road, West Windsor, 609-918-9090. Travel the world for traditional cultural celebrations including Kwanzaa, Chanukah, and Christmas. Laser tag, rock climbing walls, dance pads, storytelling, and inflatable jumps. Ages 6 and under. Register. 3 to 5 p.m.
Holiday Light Spectacular, PNC Bank Arts Center, Holmdel, 732-335-8698. www.livenation.com. Drive-through light park features more than 2 million lights in more than 100 displays of holiday spirit created by Brandano Displays. Benefit for area charities. Open through Sunday, December 31. $15 per car. 5 to 10:30 p.m.
Live Music
Larry Tritel, Orpha’s Coffee Shop, 1330 Route 206, Skillman, 609-430-2828. www.orphas.com. 9 a.m. to noon.
Jack Furlong Quartet, Cornerstone Coffee, Route 31 and Tree Farm Road, Pennington, 609-730-0777. Live jazz standards and originals. 2 to 5 p.m.
Eric Daab Duo, Java Moon Cafe, 4110 Quakerbridge Road, Lawrenceville, 609-275-7447. Jazz guitar. 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.
Ed Wall and Mike Eli, Sotto 128 Restaurant and Lounge, 128 Nassau Street, Princeton, 609-921-7555. www.sotto128.com. Acoustic rock, vocals, and guitar. 9 p.m.
Among Criminals and Promise of Redemption, The 449 Room, 449 South Broad, Trenton, 609-989-7777. www.449room.com. $5. 10 p.m.
Singles
Princeton Singles, Route 27 near the old Wine Press, Kingston, 908-874-5434. Hike along the canal for ages 55-plus. Register. 10 a.m.
Princeton Singles, Lambertville Station, Main Street, Lambertville, 609-275-5180. Holiday dinner for ages 55-plus. Register. $38.50. 12:30 p.m.
Sports
Trenton Titans Hockey, Sovereign Bank Arena, Hamilton Avenue at Route 129, 609-599-9500. www.trentontitans.com. Dayton. $10.50 to $20.50 7 p.m.
Sunday December 24
Christmas Eve.
Drama
A Christmas Carol, McCarter Theater, 91 University Place, 609-258-2787. www.mccarter.org. Holiday classic by Charles Dickens adapted by David Thompson and directed by Michael Unger features Paul Benedict in the title role. $31 to $49. Noon and 4 p.m.
Good Causes
Santa’s Arrival, Princeton Airport, Route 206, 609-921-3100. www.princetonairport.com. Bring a wrapped gift with child’s name in large text and Santa will distribute it when he arrives. Of course, he’ll be phoning the airport from his twin engine’s radio. Participants are also asked to bring an unwrapped gift of clothing, books, or toys to be distributed through Mercer County Board of Social Services. 11 a.m.
Clothing including scarves and mittens are also welcome. Contributions may be made to “Foodbank Network of Somerset County.”
Faith
St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, 142 Sand Hill Road, Monmouth Junction, 732-297-4607. Communion services and Christmas carols. 5:30 and 10:30 p.m.
Princeton Presbyterian Church, 545 Meadow Road, West Windsor, 609-987-1166. Lessons and Carols. Candlelight service at 11 p.m. 7 p.m.
History
Festival of Trees, Morven Museum, 55 Stockton Street, Princeton, 609-924-8144. www.morven.org. Thirteen galleries adorned for the holidays by area businesses and garden clubs. $5. Noon to 4 p.m.
For Families
Christmas Eve Caroling, Arts Council of Princeton, 609-924-8777. www.artscouncilofprinceton.org. Carolers of all ages assemble on Palmer Square green and proceed to sing with the Blawenburg Brass Band leading the festivities. Bring lanterns and flashlights. Keep your eyes open for Santa.
Free. 5:15 p.m.
Live Music
Arturo Romay, Sotto 128 Restaurant and Lounge, 128 Nassau Street, Princeton, 609-921-7555. www.sotto128.com. Latin jazz guitar. 5 to 8 p.m.
24-Hour Christmas Show, WPRB Radio, 103.3 FM. www.wprb.com. 19th edition of Jon Solomon’s 24-hour show featuring rare, strange, and confounding records directly or vaguely holiday-related including songs about snowy winter months, Chanukah, Kwaanza, and New Years. Solomon began the show in 1988, when he was 15 years old. 6 to 6 p.m. December 25.
Singles
Etz Chaim Sociable Single Seniors, Monroe Township Jewish Center, 11 Cornell Avenue, 609-655-5137. Discussions, socializing, and refreshments. $5. 1 to 4 p.m.
Socials
Community Caroling Event, First Presbyterian Church of Plainsboro, Super Fresh, Plainsboro Plaza, 10 Schalks Crossing Road, Plainsboro, 609-799-0855. www.fpcpnj.org. 3 to 4 p.m.
Monday December 25
Christmas Day. Postal and bank holiday.
Washington’s Crossing
Washington Crossing Historic Park, Routes 32 and 532, Washington Crossing, Pennsylvania, 215-493-4076. Annual reenactment marking the 230th anniversary of George Washington’s Crossing of the Delaware. River crossings are contingent upon safe conditions for participants. 1 p.m.
It was on Christmas night, 1776, that General George Washington and his troops crossed the icy Delaware River from Pennsylvania in a sleet storm on their way to a surprise attack on the Hessians in Trenton. This first battle won by the Continental Army became a turning point in the American Revolution, giving courage to the colonials.
Now Washington’s crossing is celebrated with all the spectacle that a winning military operation deserves. About 5,”000 people are expected to observe the event, which begins at 11 a.m. with the gathering of colonial troops in the park.
Beginning at 1 p.m., Revolutionary War troops will assemble along the banks of the Delaware River and parade to the memorial building, where they will be addressed by George Washington, before boarding the 40-foot Durham boats and crossing the river.
St. John Terrell, a New York theater producer, originated the re-enactment in 1953, and performed the patriot’s role for 25 years, through the nation’s bicentennial year. He was succeeded by Jack Kelly, Princess Grace’s brother, who played Washington until his untimely death in 1985. The third Washington was James W. Gallagher, a retired executive of Westinghouse Corporation, who retired from the role in 1996. Delaware river captain Robert V. Gerenser and Jim Stinson were the fourth and fifth to don a white wig and custom handmade military garb to re-enact the famous crossing at Washington Crossing Historic Park, Pennsylvania, the 500-acre park established to commemorate the historic night. James Gibson portrayed the general for several years.
Washington and his forces may have selected the spot to cross the Delaware because Samuel McConkey operated a little-known ferry and a tavern there that allowed the troops to cross without detection, and it was central to the area where Washington’s troops were deployed, along the Delaware River, from Lambertville to Trenton. Washington took the precaution of have Captain Daniel Bray steal all the boats on the New Jersey side of the river, to prevent the British from pursuit.
Washington Crossing Historic Park has 13 historic buildings, including the original ferry inn, an 18th century farm and industrial complex, and the 19th century village of Taylorsville. About 500,”000 people visit the park each year. The park is divided into two sections. The northern section centers around the Thompson-Neely house, built in 1702 with additions made in 1757 and 1788. Here Washington made the decision to cross the Delaware and attack the Hessians. This area also has a working 19th century grist mill, an observation tower, and picnic and camping grounds.
Faith
St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, 142 Sand Hill Road, Monmouth Junction, 732-297-4607. www.stbarnabas-sbnj.org. Service includes the Christmas Story and anthems by the African Praise Worship Chorus. 10:30 a.m.
Tuesday December 26
Kwanzaa. The seven-day African-American celebration begins today.
Dance
Great Russian Nutcracker, Patriots Theater at the War Memorial, Memorial Drive, Trenton, 609-984-8400. www.thewarmemorial.com. Moscow Ballet. Also, Monday, December 27. $25 to $65. 7:30 p.m.
Literati
Year-End Book Sale, Plainsboro Public Library, 641 Plainsboro Road, 609-275-2897. Stuff a bag for $3. 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Socrates Cafe, Princeton Public Library, 65 Witherspoon Street, 609-924-9529. Philosophical discussion group based on works of Christopher Phillips. 7 p.m.
Health & Wellness
Chi Kung, Ruth A. Golush, 666 Plainsboro Road, Suite 348, Plainsboro, 609-426-9693. Register. $20. 7 p.m.
Patriots’ Week
State House Civics Tours, Patriots’ Week, State House, 125 West State Street, Trenton, 877-PAT-WEEK. www.patriotsweek.com. Explore the restored historic building. Register. 10 a.m.
Public Reading of “The American Crisis”, Patriots’ Week, Old Barracks Museum, Barrack Street, Trenton, 877-PAT-WEEK. www.patriotsweek.com. Thomas Paine reads for the traditional kick-off for Patriots’ Week. 10:30 a.m.
Contemporary Patriots Lecture: Mayor David N. Dinkins, Patriots’ Week, Masonic Temple, Front and Barrack streets, Trenton, 877-PAT-WEEK. www.patriotsweek.com. A native Trentonian, Dinkins was the 106th mayor of New York City. 11:15 a.m.
Washington’s Decision, Patriots’ Week, Masonic Temple, Front and Barrack streets, Trenton, 877-PAT-WEEK. www.patriotsweek.com. “The Story of George Washington’s Decision to Reaccept Black Enlistments in the Continental Army, December 31, 1775. Presented by author Patrick Charles. 12:30 p.m.
Revolution 101, Patriots’ Week, Masonic Temple, Front and Barrack streets, Trenton, 877-PAT-WEEK. www.patriotsweek.com. Cathleen Litvack, executive director of the Crossroads of the American Revolution Association, reviews from the first shot fired on Lexington Green to the British surrender at Yorktown. 1:45 p.m.
The Distaff Muse: The Qualities of Women in the 18th Century, Patriots’ Week, Gallery 125, 125 South Warren Street, Trenton, 877-PAT-WEEK. www.patriotsweek.com. Historical interpreter Stacy Roth explores the thoughts of women through songs, quotations, poetry, and prose. 3 p.m.
The History of the Masons, Patriots’ Week, Masonic Temple, Front and Barrack streets, Trenton, 877-PAT-WEEK. www.patriotsweek.com. James Ross, past district deputy grand master of the 15th masonic district, presents a talk about the evolution of masonry from the cathedral builders of the middle ages to the founding of th Grand Lodge of England in 1717. 4:15 p.m.
Cecilia Brauer, Old Barracks Museum, Barrack Street, Trenton, 609-396-1776. www.barracks.org. Concert on the armonica, also known as the glass harmonica, an instrument invented by Benjamin Franklin. Wine and cheese. Register. $30. 6 and 8 p.m.
Kids Stuff
Nutcracker Ballet Camp, Princeton YWCA, 59 Paul Robeson Place, 609-497-2100. www.ywcaprinceton.org. For children ages 4 to 7. Through December 29. $150. 9 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Business Meetings
JobSeekers, Parish Hall entrance, Trinity Church, 33 Mercer Street, 609-924-2277. www.trinityprinceton.org. Networking and support for changing jobs or careers. 7:30 p.m.
Live Music
John Bianculli, Salt Creek Grille, One Rockingham Row, Forrestal Village, Plainsboro, 609-419-4200. www.saltcreekgrille.com. Solo piano. 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
John Bianculli, Salt Creek Grille, One Rockingham Row, Forrestal Village, Plainsboro, 609-419-4200. www.saltcreekgrille.com. Solo piano. 7 p.m.
Wednesday December 27
School Sports
For WW-P school sports information, call the hotline: 609-716-5000, ext. 5134.
High School South Girls Basketball. Haddonfield. at the Moorestown Holiday Tournament. Noon.
High School North Boys Basketball. At Bordentown. Tucker Holiday Tournament. 6 p.m.
High School South Boys Basketball. At Moorestown. Moorestown Holiday Tournament. 6:45 p.m.
High School North Girls Basketball. Long Branch. War of the Worlds Tournament. 7:15 p.m.
Dance
Great Russian Nutcracker, Patriots Theater at the War Memorial, Memorial Drive, Trenton, 609-984-8400. www.thewarmemorial.com. Moscow Ballet. $25 to $65. 7:30 p.m.
Literati
Year-End Book Sale, Plainsboro Public Library, 641 Plainsboro Road, 609-275-2897. Stuff a bag for $3. 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Plainsboro Public Library, 641 Plainsboro Road, 609-275-2897. www.lmxac.org/Plainsboro. Weeklong clearance. Stuff a bag for $3. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Food & Dining
Taste of Spain, Europa at Monroe, 146 Applegarth Road, Monroe, 609-490-9500. www.europanj.com. Five course menu and wine pairing dinner. Register. $38. 6:30 p.m.
Health & Wellness
Safe Sitter Class, Saint Peter’s University Hospital, Conference Center, 254 Easton Avenue, New Brunswick, 732-745-8600. For ages 11 to 13. Register. $50. 9:15 a.m. to 4:15 p.m.
Pi Gu, Ruth A. Golush, East Windsor, 609-426-9693. For weight control. Register. $20. 10 a.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Blood Drive, American Red Cross, United Methodist Church, 21 North Main Street, Cranbury, 800-448-3543. www.pleasegiveblood.org. 1 to 7 p.m.
Blood Drive, American Red Cross, 707 Alexander Road, Training Room, 800-GIVELIFE. www.pleasegiveblood.org. Walk-ins are welcome. Monday through Thursday, 1:30 to 7:30 p.m.; Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. 1:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Cinch Presentation, Personalize Nutrition, Century 21, 10 Schalks Crossing Road, Plainsboro, 609-637-0420. George Piegaro Jr. presentation features information about breaking the dieting cycle. Register. Free. 7:30 p.m.
History
Festival of Trees, Morven Museum, 55 Stockton Street, Princeton, 609-924-8144. www.morven.org. Thirteen galleries adorned for the holidays by area businesses and garden clubs. $5. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Patriots’ Week
The Revolutionary War in New Jersey: Preserving Our Documentary Heritage, Patriots’ Week, New Jersey State Archives, 225 West State Street, Trenton, 877-PAT-WEEK. www.patriotsweek.com. Ellen R. Callahan discusses the three-year project. Register. Free. 3:30 p.m.
State House Civic Tours, Patriots’ Week, State House, 125 West State Street, Trenton, 877-PAT-WEEK. www.patriotsweek.com. Explore the building. 10 a.m.
Signers and Ghosts: A Tour of Trenton’s Graveyards, Patriots’ Week, Cafe Ole, 126 South Warren Street, Trenton, 877-PAT-WEEK. www.patriotsweek.com. Jean Bickal of the Trenton Historical Society leads the tour. n through 10 a.m.
Early American Domestic Arts, Patriots’ Week, Gallery 125, 125 South Warren Street, Trenton, 877-PAT-WEEK. www.patriotsweek.com. Deborah Peterson’s 18th century pantry is stocked with hard to find ingredients. 11 a.m.
Hidden Treasures of the State House, Patriots’ Week, State House, 125 West State Street, Trenton, 877-PAT-WEEK. www.patriotsweek.com. Behind the scenes look led by Ian C. Burrow. 11:30 a.m.
The Trial of Abraham Hunt: An American Christmas Story, Patriots’ Week, Masonic Temple, Front and Barrack streets, Trenton, 877-PAT-WEEK. www.patriotsweek.com. Author Michael Davis discusses the fictional trial of the Trenton merchant. Noon.
First American Army: The Untold Story of George Washington an
