by Noella Noelophile®
(Royalty-free image by Theo Crazzolara from Pixabay.)
Is next Sunday really Christmas Day?
How’d that happen so fast?
December, somehow, always seems to melt away like a scoop of my favorite peppermint ice cream. If you’re wondering about some special events you can enjoy this week with friends, family or just as a special treat, here’s a roundup.
(Photo courtesy of Aquarium of the Pacific Audio Visual Department, and used with permission.)
Now through Friday, December 23 – Aquarium Holidays, Long Beach
Aquarium of the Pacific is all decked out with their Christmas tree, Kwanzaa display and Hanukkah menorah. Now through this Friday, December 23rd, they’ll welcome guests to see “Santa diver” and experience snowfall in the great hall. Not to mention admire their Aquarium-inspired gingerbread houses as they celebrate the season! Please note: advanced online registration is required for this week. Here’s the link for information.
(Photo courtesy of Downtown Sacramento, and used with permission.)
Thursday, December 22nd through Saturday, December 24th – Theatre of Lights, Old Sacramento
Just five performances remain for this uniquely California tradition which blends Clement Clarke Moore’s classic “A Visit From St. Nicholas”. California history and some good old-fashioned “hero vs. villain” action. This free 20-minute lighting extravaganza happens on the balconies of the historic buildings of the Old Sacramento waterfront, incorporating lights, music and a live show. Performance times are 6:00 pm and 7:30 pm on December 22nd and 23rd, with one final performance on Christmas Eve at 6:00 pm. Here’s the link for information.
(Royalty-free image by Jill Wellington from Pixabay.
Friday, December 23rd, 5:30 pm – Winter Wonderland: A Vintage Christmas, Museum of Make Believe, virtual
An old-fashioned Christmas show, online, complete with a magic lantern show, guests from the Anaheim Ballet and an appearance by Rudolph, from the Center of Puppetry Arts in Atlanta! A certain gentleman in a red suit will also be there, courtesy of Anaheim entertainer Buster Balloon, and a workshop is happening where you’ll learn to make your own “Ghost of Christmas Past” ornament! Plus, there are prizes and a toast with the “Narnian Winter White Spice” drink, from the world of C. S. Lewis. This is a free event, but please consider supporting the Museum with a donation so they can bring their magic to a physical space in the very near future. Here’s the link for information.
And, last but never least:
Now through Sunday, January 22nd (closed most Mondays and Tuesdays) – L.A. Zoo Lights – Animals Aglow.
A spectacular walk-through series of festive displays, celebrating the wonders of the animals with whom we share the planet. This annual L.A. Zoo event adds something new each time. This year’s edition includes festive lanterns, giant lighted flowers and butterflies, as well as peacocks and flamingoes. The popular “Twinkle Tunnel” is back, enhanced with icy white lights, and my favorites–the lighted frogs–have been animated. Here’s the link for information.
And–that’s it, for now! Have a great, safe and festive Monday-before-Christmas.