Good causes/fundraisers
CHRISTMAS TREES. Every Saturday and Sunday until Dec. 25 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Dodge Tree Service, 281 Willow St., Hamilton. Dodge Tree Service will be selling Christmas trees with all proceeds to benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. kgp@comcast.net.
Concerts and music
CHRISTMAS GALA. Friday, Dec. 2, 8 p.m., and Saturday, Dec. 3, 7 p.m., A.J. Gordon Memorial Chapel, Gordon College, 255 Grapevine Road, Wenham. Celebrate the Christmas season with the Gordon Department of Music. The annual celebration will feature many Gordon ensembles, including the Gordon Wind Ensemble, College Choir, Children’s Choir, Women’s Choir and more. $15/general, $10/seniors. www.gordon.edu/event.cfm?iEventID=1551.
CHRISTMAS CONCERT. Saturday, Dec. 3, 7:30 p.m., Congregational Church of Topsfield Meeting House, Route 97, Topsfield Town Common. Bring Topsfield’s 12th annual Holiday Walk to a festive close with a concert performed by members of the church and accompanied by an orchestra. Pieces by classical artists and familiar Christmas tunes. The congregation is invited to join in song. Reception will follow in Emerson Center Fellowship Hall. Free. cory@topsfieldchurch.org.
CANTEMUS’ “SHINING NIGHT: SONGS OF A NIGHT SKY.” Saturday, Dec. 3, 7:30 p.m., St. John’s Episcopal Church, 705 Hale St., Beverly. North Shore chamber chorus concert features works by Charpentier, Byron Adams and Barber, as well as other seasonal music. Cantemus, directed by Jane Ring Frank, will be accompanied by pianist and organist Frances Burmeister, soprano Adriana Repetto, violinists Marji Gere and Betsy Hinkle, and violist Jason Amos. Purchase tickets at www.mktix.com/ccc or at the door, $20/adults, $17/seniors. www.cantemus.org or 1-888-CHORUS 1.
ELLA AND HER FELLAS. Saturday, Dec. 3, 7:30 p.m., Marblehead Little Theatre, 12 School St., Marblehead. The Follen Angels, international jazz and cabaret recording artists. Features songs of Ella Fitzgerald, Frank Sinatra, Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington. Purchase tickets at 800-418-7771; Arnould Gallery and Framing, 111 Washington St., Marblehead; or the MLT box office on the night of the show. Tickets range from $22 to $28. Reservations are strongly recommended. www.follenangels.com.
CELEBRATE THE SOUNDS OF THE SEASON. Sunday, Dec. 4, 12:15 p.m., Danversport Yacht Club, 161 Elliott St., Danvers. Honda North presents a gala luncheon concert featuring the Hillyer Festival Orchestra, conducted by Dirk Hillyer. The event will benefit the programs and services of Strongest Link/AIDS Action Committee of Massachusetts. $45/adults, $25/children 12 and under; tables of 10 available for $400. First 100 children’s tickets are free when purchased with an adult ticket at Honda North. Purchase tickets at 617-450-1520; www.aac.org/pops; or Honda North, 381 Newbury St., Danvers.
JAZZ SESSIONS. Sunday, Dec. 4, 3 to 6 p.m., Chianti, 285 Cabot St., Beverly. Professional and nonprofessional musicians and students. Curious jazz novices and aficionados invited to participate. All are welcome to listen. Participants can call the tunes, keys and tempo after the opening house band set; vocalists should bring charts. No cover charge for performers, $5/nonperformers. All proceeds benefit North Shore Jazz Project’s educational programs. www.northshorejazzproject.org or www.livejazzsessions.org.
ANNUAL WINTER CONCERT. Sunday, Dec. 4, 4:30 p.m., Maple Street Church, 90 Maple St., Danvers. The StarSingers and Company and the Shine on Me Boys Chorus, all Danvers-based treble choruses for young people, will join local instrumentalists to present their annual winter concert. The performance includes songs for Christmas, both traditional and contemporary, American folk songs, Jewish songs of the Hebrew and Yiddish traditions, and songs from musicals and movies. Free. 978-777-8244.
THE NEW ENGLAND RINGERS. Sunday, Dec. 4, 3 p.m., St. Anne Church, 290 Jefferson Ave., Salem. The New England Ringers, a handbell ensemble, will perform a concert as part of their Winter 2011 tour. $15/adults, $7/seniors and students. Following the concert, refreshments will be served. www.stannesalem.com or 978-744-1930.
PERCUSSION AND WORLD MUSIC. Monday, Dec. 5, 7:30 p.m., Recital Hall, Salem State University, 71 Loring Ave., Salem. The concert will feature the percussion and world music ensembles. Free. salemstate.edu.
BAY STATE WINDS PERFORMANCE. Tuesday, Dec. 6, 7:30 p.m., Rose Performance Hall, Center for the Arts, Endicott College, 376 Hale St., Beverly. The United States Air Force Band of Liberty’s Bay State Winds features four musicians performing a program for all musical tastes. Free. Reservations are recommended at www.endicott.edu/centerforthearts or 978-998-7700.
MIDDLE SCHOOL WINTER CONCERT. Wednesday, Dec. 7, 7 p.m., Miles River Middle School, Ferrini Dramatics Center, 787 Bay Road, Hamilton. The Fine Arts Department presents annual concert featuring a variety of music from both the middle school band and chorus. Free. loseek@hwschools.net.
Seasonal events
PARADE OF TREES. Thursday, Dec. 1, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Friday, Dec. 2, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Saturday, Dec. 3, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tapley Memorial Hall, 13 Page St., Danvers. The Danvers Historical Society will host the Parade of Trees. Raffle tickets will be sold in the hall for a chance to win a fully decorated faux Christmas tree. Drawing will be held on Saturday, Dec. 3, 5 p.m. Participants don’t need to be present to win. Proceeds benefit the Danvers Historical Society and DEEP. Also, children can enter a coloring contest with prizes awarded from the Society and Goodies Ice Cream. 978-750-1975.
CHRISTMAS HAYRIDES. Thursday, Dec. 1, 5 p.m., Frost Circle, Gordon College, 255 Grapevine Road, Wenham. Children and parents are invited to board the sustainable “green” sleigh for a hayride around Gordon College. Passengers will experience festive Christmas surprises along the way, including treats, hats for the ride and carol singing with Gordon students. Free. www.gordon.edu/Christmasatgordon.
GINGERBREAD FESTIVAL. Thursday, Dec. 1, and Friday, Dec. 2, 5 to 8 p.m.; Saturday, Dec. 3, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 4, noon to 4 p.m., Lee Mansion, 161 Washington St., Marblehead. The Gingerbread Festival will feature submitted gingerbread houses on display. Visitors can bid on different gingerbread houses. Tickets cost $3/person and $10/family, include raffle tickets; raffles drawn on Sunday, Dec. 4, 3 p.m. 781-631-1768.
CAMPUS AND BELL LIGHTING. Thursday, Dec. 1, 6 p.m., Frost Circle, Gordon College, 255 Grapevine Road, Wenham. Event will include carol singing, hot chocolate and treats while the bell and gazebo are lit. Afterward, hop on a hayride or warm up by the bonfire and make s’mores. Free. www.gordon.edu/Christmasatgordon.
MARBLEHEAD CHRISTMAS WALK. Thursday, Dec. 1, through Sunday, Dec. 4, at various locations in downtown Marblehead. Hosted by the Marblehead Chamber of Commerce, the 41st annual walk features a weekend of family activities, entertainment, shopping, dining, sales, promotions, crafts fairs and concerts. www.marbleheadchristmaswalk.com.
GREENING OF THE GREAT HOUSE. Friday, Dec. 2, 5 to 9 p.m., and Saturday, Dec. 3, noon to 6 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 4, noon to 4 p.m. Crane Estate, 290 Argilla Road, Ipswich. Enjoy live jazz music by The Tom Palance Trio, cash bar and a tour of the Great House, which features florists’ and designers’ transformation of the Great House into a feast for the senses with this year’s theme, nostalgia. Event is part of the Ipswich Holiday Festival. $12/adults, $8/children and seniors; $8 and $5 for Trustees of Reservations members, $5/Ipswich residents (with proof of residency). www.thetrustees.org or 978-356-4351.
SANTA’S VISIT. Friday, Dec. 2, 5:30 p.m., Hawthorne Hotel, 18 Washington Square West, Salem. St. Nick will arrive in Salem atop the Hawthorne Hotel’s roof. Attendees are encouraged to watch from the Salem Common. The Dejas will perform holiday music and 62 Restaurant and Wine Bar will serve free hot chocolate. Santa will proceed with Mayor Driscoll to the Museum Place Mall, where children can sit on his lap and reveal their Christmas lists. www.salem.org.
CANDLELIGHT TOUR: CHRISTMAS IN SALEM HISTORIC HOUSE TOUR. Friday, Dec. 2, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., downtown Salem. The 32nd annual tour, presented by Historic Salem Inc., features 18th- and 19th-century homes in the McIntire District, decorated for the holidays. A candlelight tour of four selected homes is open to advance ticket holders only. Daytime tours are on Saturday, Dec. 3, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 4, 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., daytime tours. Advance tickets, $25/Historic Salem members, $30/nonmembers; day of event, $35. Snow date, Saturday, Dec. 10, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 978-745-0799 or ChristmasinSalem.org.
TREE LIGHTING CELEBRATION. Friday, Dec. 2, 6 p.m., National Grand Bank parking lot, across from 91 Pleasant St., Marblehead. Festivities begin at 6 p.m. with the tree lighting following at 7 p.m. Event is part of the Marblehead Christmas Walk. marbleheadchamber.org/christmas-walk.
WEST BOXFORD WINTER FESTIVAL. Saturday, Dec. 3, most events start at 9 a.m., throughout West Boxford. The festival will include free horse-drawn carriage rides, kids activities, a canine agility show, carolers, crafts fair, great food and pictures with Santa. Pick out a Christmas tree, write a letter to Santa at the Boxford Town Library, sip eggnog, decorate cookies at Lincoln Hall, shop for unique hand-crafted gifts at the Second Church Ladies Charitable Society crafts fair, and enjoy free peppermint ice cream at Benson’s Ice Cream. Free parking at the church on the corner of Main and Washington streets. 978-352-7315.
SANTA’S LANDING AND CHRISTMAS WALK PARADE. Saturday, Dec. 3, 9:30 a.m., State Street Landing, Marblehead. Santa arrives by lobster boat. Parade leaves from the landing at 11:45 a.m. to Washington Street to Atlantic Avenue to Pleasant Street. marbleheadchamber.org/christmas-walk.
TEA ROOM. Saturday, Dec. 3, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 4, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Marblehead Arts Association, 8 Hooper St., Marblehead. A summer favorite makes a warm and welcoming winter appearance, with hot teas and tasty desserts in a cozy setting. MarbleheadFestival.org.
JINGLE BELL WALK. Saturday, Dec. 3, 11 a.m., Town Hill, Ipswich. Attendees can gather at the top of Town Hill to watch Santa arrive, and then join Santa as he leads the Jingle Bell Walk parade to the Town Hall. Attendees can get their photos taken with Santa and also enjoy food, beverages, a Christmas Tree Raffle and carolers. 978-356-6600.
CHRISTMAS WALK OPEN HOUSE. Saturday, Dec. 3, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Grace Community Church, 17 Pleasant St., Marblehead. Church invites Christmas Walk shoppers and visitors for free refreshments, which include coffee, apple cider and homemade baked goods in the decorated fellowship hall. Children’s crafts also offered. 781-631-5386.
CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING AND FESTIVAL. Saturday, Dec. 3, 2 to 5 p.m., downtown Danvers, Maple Street. The festival features merchants in downtown Danvers and Danvers Historical Society’s “Parade of Trees” raffle at 5 p.m. in Tapley Memorial Hall, 13 Page St. Maple Street Church, 90 Maple St., will host Santa Claus and his elves at 2 p.m., singing Girl Scouts at 4 p.m., and a live Nativity on the front lawn from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. Bell ringers will wander around downtown from 2 to 5 p.m. Tree lighting at 5 p.m., Danvers Square. Santa will arrive by firetruck from Maple Street Church and, with assistance from the tree donor’s grandchildren, he’ll light the tree. Raffle tickets for the “Parade of the Trees” will be sold in the hall for a chance to win a fully decorated faux tree; proceeds benefit the Danvers Historical Society and DEEP.
CLASSIC CHRISTMAS. Saturday, Dec. 3, 3 to 6 p.m., The House of the Seven Gables, 115 Derby St., Salem. Christmas scenes from famous works of literature, including “Little Women,” “A Christmas Carol” and “A Child’s Christmas in Wales,” will be brought to life in the rooms of The House of the Seven Gables. $12/adults, $8/children ages 5 to 12. Reservations recommended. 978-744-0991, ext. 104.
TOPSFIELD HOLIDAY WALK. Saturday, Dec. 3, 3:30 to 7 p.m., Proctor School, 60 Main St., Topsfield. Proctor School Band and Choir performance and community singalong, 3:30 p.m.; Pillar of the Community award ceremony and Memory Tree Lighting at Town Hall, 4 p.m.; Holiday Pooch Pageant at Topsfield Crossing, 4:30 p.m.; Santa arrives by firetruck at Village Shopping Center, 5 p.m.; live Nativity, 5:30, 6 and 6:30 p.m.; Masco Chorale Group concert in Library Atrium, 5:30 p.m.; Chas Southard soup fundraiser at St. Rose Church, 6 p.m.; bonfire at Proctor School field, 7 p.m.; holiday concert at Congregational Church, 7:30 p.m.
CHIEF WILL’S WINTER FESTIVAL. Saturday, Dec. 3, 4 p.m., Flint Public Library, 1 S. Main St., Middleton. The festival begins with the screening the original cartoon version of “The Grinch”; the Jingle Bells Parade with Santa and the fire engines will leave the library and head to the Middleton Green, 4:40 p.m.; free coffee, hot chocolate, hot dogs, popcorn, hot cider, pizza, gingerbread cookie decorating, bonfire, DJ playing Christmas music, pictures with Santa and giving tree, all at the Middleton Green; Howe Manning Singers will lead guests in song around the Christmas tree, 5:40 p.m.; Christmas tree lighting, 6 p.m.
ENDICOTT’S HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE. Sunday, Dec. 4, 1 to 4 p.m., Endicott College, Center for the Arts, 376 Hale St., Beverly. Enjoy holiday refreshments and musical entertainment by the Endicott Singers with Harmonelle and Bassline, the Endicott College Jazz Band, and The Manchester Singers. Also, visit with Santa Claus when he arrives at 2:15 p.m. Free. Registration required at 978-232-2012.
CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING AND HOLIDAY PARTY. Sunday, Dec. 4, 2 to 5 p.m., Hastings House, 14 Oak St., Beverly. Several activities for children, including seasonal crafts, letters to Santa and photo opportunities with Santa. Enjoy a tractor-drawn hayride and holiday refreshments for all ages. Free/Farms-Prides Community Association members, $5/nonmembers. 978-922-6648.
HOLIDAY CANDLELIGHT SERVICE. Sunday, Dec. 4, 4:15 p.m., Puritan Lawn Memorial Park, Veterans’ Circle, Pierce Boulevard, Peabody. Holiday candlelight service allows attendees to celebrate the season and pay respects to the memory of their loved ones. Masconomet High School Chorale will sing. Candles provided. Also, through Dec. 4, families are invited to place Christmas ornaments on the evergreen tree in memory of loved ones; tree will be lit as part of the service. 978-535-3660 or www.puritanlawn.com.
ANNUAL HOLIDAY PARTY. Sunday, Dec. 4, 6 to 8 p.m., Ipswich Museum, 54 S. Main St., Ipswich. Refreshments, decorated museum rooms and silent auction. $40 museum members and guests in advance, $5 more at the door. Register at 978-356-2811 with credit card information. 978-356-2811 or www.ipswichmuseum.org.
BREAKFAST WITH SANTA. Wednesday, Dec. 7, 10 a.m. to noon, Peabody Institute Library, South Branch, 78 Lynn St., Peabody. Annual breakfast with Santa for children of all ages accompanied by an adult. Enjoy pancakes and milk while waiting for Santa to arrive. Registration is required at 978-531-3380 or at the library.
FROSTING, FRIENDS AND FUN. Wednesday, Dec. 7, 1 p.m., Wenham Museum, 132 Main St. Join the annual gingerbread cookie-decorating event. Rekindle childhood memories with a visit to the Snow Train to Bakersville, a G-gauge holiday model train layout where old-fashioned cars fill the gas-lit streets and tiny clothespin people visit snow-covered houses. Come early to visit the Gingerbread Express model train layout. $7.50/adults, $5.50/children. 978-468-2377 or www.wenhammuseum.org.
TREE OF LIGHTS CEREMONY. Wednesday, Dec. 7, 5 p.m., People’s United Bank, 1 Conant St., Danvers. Danvers community members can sponsor a light in memory or in honor of a loved one with a donation to support the mission of Hospice of the North Shore and Greater Boston. A reception will follow where guests can view the Honor Roll Book. 978-223-9787 or events@hns.org.
Theater
“THE SNOW QUEEN.” Dec. 1, 2 and 3 at 7 p.m., First Church in Wenham, Arbor Street, Route 1A, Wenham. A family musical by David Alan George and Peter Stewart. $10 at the door. All proceeds will go to the Acord Food Pantry. 978-468-5047.
“THE PRIME OF MISS JEAN BRODIE.” Dec. 1, 2 and 3 at 7:30 p.m., Dec. 4 at 2 p.m. Salem State University, Mainstage Theatre, 352 Lafayette St., Salem. A story about a charismatic teacher with blowtorch passion, whose romanticism and pride break the parochialism of a conservative girls school in 1930s Edinburgh, Scotland. $15/general, $10/non-Salem State students and seniors. www.salemstatetickets.com or 978-542-7890.
“AN EMPTY PLATE IN THE CAFéâ DU GRAND BOEUF.” Thursday, Dec. 1, through Saturday, Dec. 17, Wednesdays through Saturdays, 7:30 p.m., and Sundays, 3 p.m., at STC Theater, 90 Lafayette St., Salem. A name-your-own-price performance on Thursday, Dec. 1, and a post-show talk with the cast and director will be held on Dec. 8. The “comic tragedy in seven courses” is written by Michael Hollinger and directed by Gary LaParl. The production takes place in Paris in 1961 and celebrates the joys of cooking, sex, bullfighting and the collected works of Ernest Hemingway. www.salemtheatre.com.
“CANDIDE.” Dec. 1, 2 and 3 at 7:30 p.m. and Dec. 4, at 2 p.m. Beverly High School Auditorium, 100 Sohier Road, Beverly. The Beverly High School Fine Arts Department and Stage Right presents a sassy and fast-paced comedy based on Voltaire’s play of the same name. The production follows the adventures of a young man on a journey that leads him to enlightenment and wisdom. $8/adults, $6/students. jcohen@beverlyschools.org.
“MY FAIR LADY.” Friday, Dec. 2, and Saturday, Dec. 3, 7:30 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 4, 2:30 p.m., Ipswich High School Performing Arts Center, 134 High St., Ipswich. The Company of Ipswich High School presents a classic Cinderella story, adapted from George Bernard Shaw’s play “Pygmalion.” $10/general, $5/students, seniors and preschoolers. Tickets available at www.ticketstage.com/CIHS. Handicapped-accessible. 978-356-3137, ext. 365.
“HOW TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESS WITHOUT REALLY TRYING.” Dec. 2, 3 and 4 at 7:30 p.m., Kaneb Theatre, Alumni Hall, St. John’s Prep, 72 Spring St., Danvers. Prep Drama Guild presents a witty satire about getting ahead in business. $15/adults and $12/students and seniors. Tickets available at the door, www.stjohnsprep.org/howtosucceed or agreenwood@stjohnsprep.org. 978-774-1050.
“MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET.” Friday, Dec. 2, 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 4, 2 p.m., Hogan Regional Center Auditorium, 6 Hathorne Circle, Danvers. The North Shore Players Community Theatre presents the musical. The book, music and lyrics are written by Meredith Willson. $17/adults, $13/students and seniors; online purchase costs $14/adults and $11/students and seniors. www.northshoreplayers.org or 978-750-4842.
“THE WIZARD OF OZ.” Saturday, Dec. 3, 7 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 4, 3 p.m., Temple B’nai Abraham, auditorium, 200 E. Lothrop St., Beverly. Presented by Theatre of Light. $15/adults, $10/students and seniors, $5/children age 5 and under. Walk-ins welcome, but reservations recommended. 978-210-9818 or TOL.TICKETS@gmail.com.
Art
WINTER SCENES. Thursday, Dec. 1 through Friday, Dec. 30, Beverly Farms Public Library, 24 Vine St., Beverly Farms. Art exhibit by the Guild of Beverly Artists members depicting “Winter Scenes” in artwork using different media. Open during library hours. 978-526-4979.
GALLERY AT PORTER MILL PREVIEW PARTY. Thursday, Dec. 1, 6 to 8 p.m., Porter Mill, 95 Rantoul St., Beverly. The preview party will celebrate the Gallery at Porter Mill’s exhibition of small works by artists from throughout New England, juried by Maggie Cavallo of the Galleries at Montserrat College of Art. Free; open to the public. studios.portermill@gmail.com or www.studiosatportermill.blogspot.com.
BEVERLY ARTWALK 2011. Friday, Dec. 2 and Saturday, Dec. 3, various times and locations in downtown Beverly. Events include holiday art sales, open studios, an illustration class, art exhibitions featuring different mediums, and more. www.facebook.com/events/271682969549463/.
HOLIDAY OPEN STUDIOS. And Small Works Exhibition, Saturday, Dec. 3, 2 to 6 p.m., Porter Mill, 95 Rantoul St., Beverly. Walk through the studios, enjoy eggnog and cookies, ask questions, purchase original artwork, and meet working artists who create their photographs, paintings, sculptures and other art at Porter Mill. Also, the Gallery at Porter Mill will be displaying an exhibition of small works by artists throughout New England. Free; open to the public. studios.portermill@gmail.com or www.studiosatportermill.blogspot.com.
“JOY.” Opening reception Sunday, Dec. 4, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, 135 Lafayette St., Marblehead. “Joy” is a solo exhibition at the Cloister Gallery by Salem artist Judy Beals. Exhibit features paintings with bursts of color, pattern and texture. Exhibit also includes decorative folk art, Christmas trees, and 2012 calendars entitled “Sassy Seasons.” On view Sunday, Dec. 4 through Wednesday, Jan. 4.
“HAVE YOURSELF A MERRY LITTLE CHRISTMAS.” Opening reception Saturday, Dec. 3, 5 to 7 p.m., Time Tide Fine Art, 4 Market St., Ipswich. Exhibit features little pieces of art, and almost all artwork is eight-by-eight inches or smaller. Four large pieces by local artists will accentuate the petite art. Reception attendees received Christmas goodies. Exhibit on view through Saturday, Jan. 14. 978-238-8848 or kristina@timeandtidefineart.com.
EXHIBIT GALLERY TOUR. Wednesday, Dec. 7, 2 p.m., Endicott College, Halle Library Archive and Museum, 376 Hale St., Beverly. Gallery director and curator Barbara Broudo will lead a tour of the exhibit “From Summer Estates to College Campus.” Free; open to the public. Limited space. Exhibit focuses on family relationships through the generations, the acquisition of the properties, stories about the estate owners and their families and the early founding years of Endicott College. 978-232-2257.
Pets
“HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST DOG FOR YOUR LIFESTYLE.” Saturday, Dec. 3, 9 to 11 a.m., Paws for Praise, 119 Liberty St., second floor, Danvers. The cost is $10 per family, a portion of which benefits Cape Ann Animal Aid. Attendees can bring their own coffee and all of their questions. Light refreshments will be served. Pre-register at 978-356-7667.
Fairs and sales
HOLIDAY FAIR. Thursday, Dec. 1, 3:30 to 7 p.m., entrance of Beverly Hospital, 85 Herrick St., Beverly. Beverly and Addison Gilbert Hospital employees will hold a fair featuring crafts and hand-made items. Bake Sale provided by hospital volunteers. Free parking. 978-922-3000.
GUILD OF BEVERLY ARTISTS HOLIDAY SALE OF ART AND CRAFT. Friday, Dec. 2, Saturday, Dec. 3, and Sunday, Dec. 4, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Lynch Park, Carriage House, Ober Street, Beverly. The Guild of Beverly Artists will present their annual Holiday Sale of Art and Craft featuring works by members of the Guild. The sale will include painted and handmade holiday ornaments, evergreen arrangements and paintings. Also, on Dec. 2, in collaboration with Montserrat College of Art, Guild members will participate at the one-day sale of arts and crafts with Montserrat artists at their gallery on Cabot Street. Free parking and admission to the park. 978-526-4979.
ST. MICHAEL’S CHRISTMAS FAIR. Preview Party, Friday, Dec. 2, 6 to 9 p.m., St. Michael’s Church, 26 Pleasant St., Marblehead. Special beverages, gourmet hors d’oeuvres, music, and an early buying opportunity. Also, on Saturday, Dec. 3, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Christmas Walk participants are invited to visit the fair and view artisans’ creations, and enjoy hot cider, donuts, baked goods, and lunch selections (beginning at 11 a.m.). www.stmichaels1714.org, office@stmichaels1714.org or 781-631-0657.
SILENT AUCTION PREVIEW PARTY. Friday, Dec. 2, 7 to 9 p.m., St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 12 Washington St., Peabody. Preview party will include complimentary refreshments, a mini auction, and a mystery balloon raffle. The Christmas fair and silent auction are set for Saturday, Dec. 3 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and feature several auction items, quilts, knits, crafts, baked goods, used books, white elephants, general store, “Children’s chances are” table, private vendor boutique with fresh Christmas greenery, gourmet foods and chef products, and the Kountry Kitchen serving lunch from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. All proceeds benefit St. Paul’s Church and its community outreach programs. 978-531-2732.
HAMILTON HOLLY FAIR. Saturday, Dec. 3, 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., First United Methodist Church of Hamilton, 391 Bay Road, Hamilton. The church will hold its 37th annual Holly Fair featuring 16 different vendors, Christmas greens, knitted goods, baked goods, country store, white elephant and Christmas items. Breakfast served from 8:30 to 11 a.m., and lunch from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Handicapped-accessible and stroller friendly. 978-468-1256.
HOLIDAY FAIR. Saturday, Dec. 3, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., First Parish Unitarian Universalist Church, 225 Cabot St., Beverly. The Holiday Fair’s theme is Winter Wonderland, and will feature holiday crafts, assorted attic treasures, previously loved books, homemade baked goods, gifts, fun children’s activities, and a delicious luncheon. Free admission; open to the public. 978-922-3968.
HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE. Saturday, Dec. 3, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Winthrop School, 325 Bay Road, Hamilton. Children can enjoy holiday shopping with the help of elves in the Children’s Secret Shop; all gifts in the shop cost $5 or less. Event features over 45 vendors, a cookie walk, silent auction, Scholastic Book Fair, Santa, and lunch at the Winthrop Café©. junstinandstacey@verizon.net.
CRAFT FAIR. Saturday, Dec. 3, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., 76 Lake St., Peabody. All are welcome to the fourth annual McCarthy Craft Fair. The cost is $50 for table rental. 978-535-8292.
HOLIDAY GREENS SALE. Saturday, Dec. 3, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Endicott Park Carriage House, Forest Street, Danvers. The Danvers Garden Club will hold a Holiday Greens Sale featuring wreaths and swags with beautiful bows, kissing balls, boxwood trees, table arrangements, and baskets of greens that are decorated. The sale will also include baked goods, a 50/50 drawing, a holiday lottery tree, and ornaments. 978-774-1936.
MARBLEHEAD CHRISTMAS FAIR. Saturday, Dec. 3, 9 a.m. and Sunday, Dec. 4, following 9 a.m. Mass, Our Lady Star of the Sea Parish, 85 Atlantic Ave., Marblehead. Fair will include artisans, crafters and raffles with special events and destinations. Raffle ticket prices vary for each raffle. Drawings will be held on Dec. 4 during the fair. 781-631-0086.
HOLIDAY CRAFT FAIR. Saturday, Dec. 3, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Church in the Cove, 167 Hale St., Beverly. The fair will include over 20 craft vendors, holiday decorations, handmade items, fresh wreaths and greenery, silent auction and grandma’s attic. Breakfast and lunch will be served. 978-922-5135.
RED BOW FAIR. Saturday, Dec. 3, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Unitarian Universalist Church of Marblehead, 28 Mugford St., Marblehead. Fair includes Red Bow Gift Baskets, doll houses, a cafe, festive plants and flowers, computer equipment, white elephant room, new and gently-used books, hand-crafted ornaments and gift items, raffles, and baked goods. 781-631-1215.
SALEM HOLLY FAIR. Saturday, Dec. 3, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Moose Family Center no. 218, 50 Grove St., Salem. Annual craft fair includes two holly wreath door prizes, 50/50 raffle and refreshments. 978-601-3934 or dboltas@yahoo.com.
BOXFORD CHRISTMAS FAIR. Saturday, Dec. 3, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., First Church Congregational, Family Life Center, 4 Georgetown Road, Boxford. Fair features fresh greens, centerpieces and home-made baked goods. 978-887-5841.
ANNUAL HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE. Saturday, Dec. 3, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Ipswich Museum, 54 S. Main St., Ipswich. Annual fundraising event for the museum features sale of holiday greens, hand-made gifts, original art by local artists, Grandma’s Attic treasures, and silent auction. First floor rooms open for viewing. Also, at 6 p.m., Museum trustee Elaine Lucas will lead a Candlelight Tour of the Whipple House. Reservations required for tour; $10/person. 978-356-2811.
CHRISTMAS BOUTIQUE. Saturday, Dec. 3, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 4, 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Grace Episcopal Church, 385 Essex St., Salem. Boutique features uniquely decorated natural wreaths, sprays, arrangements, homespun table, and more created by the Salem Garden Club. Snow date is Saturday, Dec. 10. salemgardenclub@verizon.net or 978-741-1425.
GRACE CHURCH FAIR AND CAFE. Saturday, Dec. 3, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Grace Church, Parish House, 385 Essex St., Salem. The church will host its Christmas Fair and Cafe featuring craft items, Christmas earrings, a quilt raffle, baked goods and re-gifted items. Cafe luncheon includes a la carte items of soup, quiche, salad, apple cider, coffee and desserts. Members of the Grace Church Choir and Choir School will lead Christmas carols from 12:30 to 1 p.m. priscillalemons@comcast.net.
ARTISANS’ HOLIDAY MARKETPLACE. Saturday, Dec. 3, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 4, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Abbot Hall, 188 Washington St., Marblehead. As part of Marblehead Chamber’s Christmas Walk weekend, the Marblehead Festival of Arts presents the Artisans’ Holiday Marketplace featuring jewelry, fine art, blown glass, children’s clothing, fiber art, tapestry bags, hand-woven baskets, and more. There will also be a logo store with festival logo merchandise from prior years, and a chance to vote for the 2012 festival logo entry. MarbleheadFestival.org.
Film
FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT. Friday, Dec. 2, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Ipswich Town Hall gym, 25 Green St., Ipswich. Enjoy the Jim Carrey version of “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” shown on the big screen with stadium seating. Movie-themed activities provided. $5/person, $20/family maximum. Nick Fitzgerald, fitzgeraldn@northshoreymca.org or 978-578-8797.
SALEM PEACE COMMITTEE FILM SCREENING. Tuesday, Dec. 6, 7 p.m., St. James Conference Room, corner of Bridge and Flint streets, Salem. The film, “Why We Fight,” dissects America’s military machine with a look at “Why do we engage in war?” Through personal stories of soldiers, government officials, scholars, journalists and innocent victims, the film examines political and economic interests and ideological factors both past and present behind American militarism. Free. 978-740-9917.
Lectures
SDLqTHE WELFARE STATE IDEAL AND THE PUBLIC DEBT REALITY.” Thursday, Dec. 1, 4:30 p.m., Ken Olsen Science Center, MacDonald Auditorium, Gordon College, 255 Grapevine Road, Wenham. Gideon Strauss, senior fellow with the Center for Public Justice, will speak on “The Welfare State Ideal and the Public Debt Reality.” Strauss will also speak on Friday, Dec. 2 at 10:25 a.m. in the A. J. Gordon Memorial Chapel. Free; open to the public. ryan.groff@gordon.edu or 978-867-4227.
“IDEOLOGICAL FOUNDATIONS OF AMERICAN CAPITALISM AND THE CRISIS IN CURRENT U.S. POLICIES.SDRq Thursday, Dec. 1, 7 to 9 p.m., Ken Olsen Science Center, Gordon College, 255 Grapevine Road, Wenham. A nationally recognized economist, former CEO and current adjunct professor at Gordon College, Dr. Robert Gough, will present “Ideological Foundations of American Capitalism and the Crisis in Current U.S. Policies.” Free; open to the public. www.gordon.edu.
SCAMS AND FRAUDS. Friday, Dec. 2, 10:15 a.m. to noon, Hamilton Wenham Public Library, 14 Union St., Hamilton. The Better Business Bureau presents “Scams and Frauds” by Amy Schram. The informative lecture provides tips on how to improve consumer skills; know the danger signs that will alert consumers to some of the most common scams. Chief Stevens and Chief Walsh will be on hand to provide local information. 978-468-5577 or www.hwlibrary.org.
“IMAGES OF AMERICA: WENHAM.” Book Signing and Lecture, Saturday, Dec. 3, 11 a.m., Wenham Museum, 132 Main St., Wenahm. Author Annette Janes, former director of the Hamilton-Wenham Library, will share the history behind Wenham’s New England charm with a lecture and more than 200 vintage images of historic photographs. Pre-registration required at 978-468-2377 or www.wenhammuseum.org.
“HOW TO TALK SO KIDS WILL LISTEN.” “And Listen So Kids Will Talk,” Tuesday, Dec. 6, 7 to 8:30 p.m., Plumfield Academy, 123 Dayton St., Danvers. Evening session number three. Six-week workshop presented by Nina and John Pension about creating new communication options to help parents become more loving and effective. For more information and to register, visit www.plumfieldacademy.org or call 978-304-0273.
Celebrations
A CELEBRATION OF JOY AND GIVING. Thursday, Dec. 1, 10:30 a.m., Flint Public Library, 1 South Main St., Middleton. Events will include a children’s story hour, and learning and playing Mahjongg for adults, 10:30 a.m.; discussion by Donna Davis on the ways people give, 1 to 2 p.m.; Lego program for all ages, 3:30 p.m.; donor appreciation reception with refreshments and music, 5:30 p.m.; and brief remarks followed by the unveiling of the large donor plaque, 7 p.m. The book club discussion group will hold its meeting immediately following the unveiling. 978-774-8132, flint3@comcast.net or www.flintlibrary.org.
TRI-M MUSIC HONOR SOCIETY INDUCTION CEREMONY. Thursday, Dec. 1, 7 p.m., M. Ruth Norton Auditorium, Salem High School, 77 Willson St., Salem. The Salem High School Music Department will hold its annual Tri-M Music Honor Society Induction ceremony; 28 students will be inducted and Salem music teacher Jane Lundergan will be awarded honorary membership. Musical presentations and refreshments will follow. Free; open to the public. 978-740-1136.
Creative workshops
GINGERBREAD HOUSE WORKSHOPS. Saturday, Dec. 3, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Topsfield Town Library, 1 South Common St., Topsfield. Kids ages 12 and under can create edible masterpieces. Three sessions start at 10 a.m. and run throughout the day. abookgrowsintopsfield@gmail.com.
KIDS KRAFTS. Saturday, Dec. 3, 12:30 to 1:30 p.m., Peabody Institute Library South Branch, 78 Lynn St., Peabody. Children ages 5 to 9 with adults are invited for a story and crafts. Seating is limited and registration is required; call 978-531-3380 to register.
ACCORDION BOOKS. Saturday, Dec. 3, 1 to 3:30 p.m., Peabody Essex Museum, East India Square, Salem. Learn how to make an accordion book with artist Kyle Browne. Start with a personalized cover, then create a simple structure that incorporates folds, sewn-in pages, pockets and more to reveal flair. Make a reservation at 978-745-9500, ext. 3011.
THE ART OF NATURE: HOLIDAYS AT THE SANCTUARY. Saturday, Dec. 3, 1 to 3 p.m., Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary, 87 Perkins Row, Topsfield. Join watercolorist Brenda Sloane and check up on the hairy and downy woodpeckers, black-capped chickadees, coyotes, sugar maples, white pines, and a red-tailed hawk, and see how they celebrate the holidays. Upon return, write a nature haiku as part of a seasonal watercolor card. Families and children ages 6 to 12. Fee ranges $7 to $10. Registration required. 978-887-9264 or ipswichriver@massaudubon.org.
HOLIDAY WORKSHOP. Sunday, Dec. 4, 10:30 a.m., Northshore Unitarian Universalist Church, 323 Locust St., Danvers. Make lovely decorations and gifts for the holidays while engaging in lively conversation; fun for all ages. 978-774-7582 or visit www.nsuu.org.
CREATING HOLIDAY BOXWOODS AT HAMILTON GARDENS. Tuesday, Dec. 6, 4:30 to 6 p.m., Community House of Hamilton and Wenham, 284 Bay Road, Hamilton. Instructors Stacy and Tammy will help paired-up participants create live centerpieces to add to their holiday decor. Punch, tea and cookies provided. $39 for a pair; one project included. Sign up at 978-468-4818 or www.communityhouse.org.
HOME DESIGN ROAD SHOW. Tuesday, Dec. 6, 6:30 to 9 p.m., Hamilton Wenham Public Library, 14 Union St., Hamilton. Attendees are encouraged to bring photos of a single project that they would like fixed, and the panel of expert North Shore designers will offer strategies for color, design, space, interiors, exteriors, gardens, sustainability, re-sale value and more. Meet on a one-on-one basis with as many people as are relevant to attendee’s project. Free; open to the public. 978-468-5577 or www.hwlibrary.org.
FAMILY HOLIDAY WORKSHOP. Wednesday, Dec. 7, 3 to 5 p.m., Ipswich Museum, 54 South Main St., Ipswich. Holiday ornament-making workshop for families. Celebrate the season with educator Stacey Fraser-deHaan. $5/museum members, $6/nonmembers. Advance registration preferred; register at 978-356-2811 or educator@ipswichmuseum.org.
Books and reading
DAYTIME BOOK DISCUSSION GROUP. Thursday, Dec. 1, 1 p.m., Beverly Public Library, 32 Essex St., Beverly. Group will discuss “Broken Glass,” by Arthur Miller. New members welcome. Copies of the book are available at the Circulation Desk. Handicapped-accessible. 978-921-6062.
EXTREME BIRDER. Friday, Dec. 2, 7:45 p.m., Peabody Essex Museum, East India Square, Salem. Lynn Barber will present the not-so-fine art of bird chasing and artful forays into painting birds during a presentation of her book, “Extreme Birder: One Woman’s Big Year.” A book signing will follow; for teens and adults. At 723 species, Barber set a 21st-century record, second only to one other person. Free with museum admission. E.C.O.C. business meeting from 7:30 to 7:45 p.m. 978-745-9500, ext. 3011.
NATURE TALES: OWLS. Saturday, Dec. 3, 10 to 11:30 a.m., Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary, 87 Perkins Row, Topsfield. Read “Owl Moon” by Jane Yolen, then take an up-close look at some owl mounts, followed by a walk to the Hemlock Forest to search for signs of owls and learn their calls. For ages 3 to 6 and family. Members, $7/adults, $6/children; nonmembers, $9/adults, $7/children. Pre-registration required. 978-887-9264 or ipswichriver@massaudubon.org.
Clubs
GULU-GULU. Jay Feinstein, Dec. 1; Dr. DK, Dec. 2; Big Blue Octopus, Dec. 3; Open Mike Wednesday Nights, Dec. 7. 247 Essex St., Salem. 978-740-8882.
HARDCOVER RESTAURANT. Night Cap, Dec. 2. 15A Newbury St. (Route 1 north), Danvers. 978-774-1223.
SCRATCH KITCHEN. Thursday, Dec. 1, Andy O’Brien. 7 to 10 p.m. No cover. Acoustic Thursdays at Scratch Kitchen, 245 Derby St., Salem.