And here we are with 2 weeks to go until Christmas. Got your tree? You can still get one at the Rotary Club’s Christmas tree park across from the Golden Ball. Got your shopping done? Head out and shop local in Weston or Lincoln (Something Special is always great) or Concord (book shop!) or Wellesley (lots of stuff including a great bookstore).

There is a lot going on in the “big” city to our east–the Owl makes no attempt to highlight any or all of their events. Boston Central does an admirable job of summing it up so check that out here. And don’t forget the Festival of Trees at Elm Bank or the Family Trees at the Concord Museum.

Friday, December 10

First Parish Church Christmas Reception and Caroling, 6:30-8:30 pm. Appetizers, desserts, wine, and soft drinks (bring some to share). The reception and socializing will begin at 6:30 pm, but children & families are invited to come at 6:00 pm to decorate holiday cookies! Later in the evening, head outside (weather permitting) to gather around a fire to sing a few Christmas carols. Please sign up to bring appetizers or dessert here.

Judy Collins at Cary Memorial Hall, Lexington. 8 pm Be spontaneous–Judy Collins is one of the best, and quite an activist too. She’s got herself a great public relations person: “her luminescent presence shines brightly as new generations bask in the glow of her iconic 55-album body of work, and heed inspiration from her spiritual discipline to thrive in the music industry for half a century.” 55 albums!!! Ermigod. Tickets available here.

Saturday, December 11

Boston Saengerfest Men’s Chorus at Regis College, 3 pm performance. This year’s Christmas concert, O Holy Night, will feature world premieres of a cappella arrangements, captivating solo performances, carols from around the world, and beloved Christmas classics. Tickets are limited this year due to restrictions by the theater. We encourage you to purchase early using EventBrite HERE. General Admission at the door will be $25.00. Proof of vaccination is required. Regis College is at 235 Wellesley Street.

11th Annual Holiday House Tour: Inside Out, Concord, 11 am to 3 pm. This year’s event is back to an in-person format, with the “exciting twist” of featuring a variety of beautifully decorated outdoor spaces. I like their marketing person–exciting twist? Haven’t we all been outside for two years now? sigh. “Hidden and often overlooked spaces, like patios, porches, doorways, barns, and gazebos, will take center stage for this showcase of outdoor winter wonderlands.”  Tickets: $30 Concord Museum Members/$35 General Public Inclement weather date: Sunday, December 12. More information and tickets here.

It’s A Wonderful Life at Center for Arts in Natick, 11 am and 2 pm. As if you don’t know the story but here’s the summary: “An angel is sent from Heaven to help a desperately frustrated businessman by showing him what life would have been like if he had never existed.George Bailey has so many problems he is thinking about ending it all – and it’s Christmas! Then in comes guardian angel Clarence – who shows George what his town would have looked like if it hadn’t been for all his good deeds over the years. If you don’t love this movie, we can no longer be friends. $12/$10 members. Get your tickets here. Please note proof of Covid-19 vaccination and matching ID are required. A face covering is also required. More information at CAN’s site.

Sunday, December 12

Holiday Stroll at Linden Square, Wellesley. 12:30 to 3pm. Join in on all the fun and festivities with the Wellesley High School Keynote & Rice Singers, Victorian Carolers, Paw Patrol characters, and balloon twister. Plus, enjoy hot chocolate and cider bars. Be sure and stop by the beautifully lit Courtyard for your holiday photo in front of the Linden Square tree. Performances located around the center. More information here.