Can you believe this nice weather, Syracuse? It’s going to be a perfect weekend to enjoy a little bit of everything. It’s a key weekend to go for a late fall hike, and it’s a perfect time to quit procrastinating the holiday shopping.
Crouse Hinds Theater, The Landmark Theatre, Syracuse Stage, The Open Hand Theater — Do you see where I am going with this? Other venues have a lot to offer with visual performances this weekend as well. There are action-packed sporting events too, with the Syracuse Crunch, the Silver Knights and SU women’s basketball.
Not only is it a good weekend to enjoy the stage, it’s a great one to enjoy some arts and crafts. Head over to DeWitt Community Library, the Fairgrounds, and the Onondaga Nation School for arts and craft fairs.
So, what are your plans?
Weather Forecast
(Subject to change, of course.)
THURSDAY
Temperature: 57 degrees / 45 degrees
Conditions: Break out the shorts, wash them and iron them.
FRIDAY
Temperature: 59 degrees / 42 degrees
Conditions: Clouds: We’re used to them.
SATURDAY
Temperature: 56 degrees / 50 degrees
Conditions: A little rain never hurt anybody.
SUNDAY
Temperature: 61 degrees / 54 degrees
Conditions: Shorts weather (plus 10 degrees).
Arts & Crafts
Artisans Against Hunger Craft Show, Fundraiser
Shop locally and independently. Come check out all that is good in Central New York. Donations will be accepted for the Humane Society and the local food bank.
Where: Dewitt Community Church at 3600 Erie Blvd E., DeWitt.
When: Saturday, Dec. 12 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Cost: Free admission. Donations weclome.
From the Earth Arts & Crafts Festival
There will be over 40 artists from the Six Nations and Navajo Nation offering a variety of jewelry and bead work, pottery and sculptures, paintings and other artwork. Be sure to enjoy a Haudenosaunee fashion show at 11 a.m., and grab some great food.
Where: Onondaga Nation School, Route 11A, Nedrow
When: Saturday, Dec. 12: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Cost: Free admission
While enjoying a day of boutique shopping at the Barnes Hiscock Mansion, be sure to enjoy lunch and a fashion show at noon. Come back later for a wine and cheese social soiree at 5 p.m. Shopping is available all day until 7 p.m.
Where: Barnes Hiscock Mansion, 930 James St.
When: Friday, Dec. 11 | 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Cost: $20 (luncheon and fashion show), $10 (evening social), free admission (to shop only) | Buy Online | 422-2445
Comedy & Improv
Salt City Improv presents: Our “Most Wonderful Time” Show
Salt City Improv’s seasonally-named Pork Pie Hutt and SkittleFett take your mind off of the “War on Christmas” and showcase short and long-form improv, proving there is no light or dark side with improv.
Where: Salt City Improv Theatre, Shoppingtown Mall, 3649 Erie Blvd. E., Syracuse
When: Saturday, Dec. 12: 8 p.m.
Cost: $10 | 410-1962
Syracuse Improv Collective presents: “Seasonally Appropriate SIC Salad”
Treat yourself to a healthy dose of long-form improv, music and art with this monthly installment of the beloved “Bank Show.” Eat the Cake 2, No Friends Just Benefits and Satan’s Closet will generate some scene work, Tin Can Twins Cantina will provide the tunes, and Frank and Meghan will visually articulate improvised art.
Where: The Vault, 451 S. Warren St., Syracuse
When: Friday, Dec. 11: 8 p.m.
Cost: $5 | 430-9027
Festivals and Family Fun
Candlelight Tours at Seward House Museum
What’s cooler than “traveling back in time,” taking a tour of a historic mansion and learning some national and local history? Experiencing all of this by candlelight! Head over to Auburn for this unique experience.
Where: Seward House Museum, 33 South St., Auburn.
When: Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays: Dec. 10 – 19 | 6-7 p.m. and 7-8 p.m.
Cost: $15 (adults), $8 (children), Free (12 and younger) | 252-1283
For its 22nd year, Dickens Christmas returns to Skaneateles, and it kicks off this Friday. Stop by for the annual tradition, whether it’s your first time or you’re re returning fan.
Where: Village of Skaneateles, Skaneateles
When: Every Saturday and Sunday | Thursday, Dec. 24 | Noon – 4 p.m.
Cost: Free
The Gingerbread Gallery is in its 30th year! In late November, the event kicked off after the tree-lighting ceremony. Come check out the gingerbread displays created by local bakers. (Please eat beforehand and resist temptation to pick at the designs.)
Where: Erie Canal Museum, 318 Erie Blvd. E., Syracuse
When: Daily 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Event ends Sunday, Jan. 3, 2016.
Cost: $2 (children), $4 (seniors), $5 (adults)
The 30th Anniversary of Festival of Trees is taking place at the Everson again, and its aging and becoming more vibrant every year.
To celebrate, here are additional special events:
Happy Hour with Joe Driscoll | Thursday, Dec. 10 | 5-8 p.m.
Casual attire | $10 (members), $15 (non-members) | 474-6943
Santa Saturdays | Saturday, Dec. 12 | 1-4 p.m.
$5 (per person), free (10 and younger
Where: Everson Museum of Art, 401 Harrison St., Syracuse
When: Thursday, Dec. 10 – Sunday, Dec. 13 | Open Wednesdays – Sundays
Cost: $5 (per person) | Free (10 and younger)
The two-mile-long light spectacular continues to the beginning of January. Come ring in the holiday season with favorite and familiar displays and new ones.
Where: Onondaga Lake Park, 106 Lake Drive, Liverpool
When: Daily | 5-10 p.m.
Cost: $10/car (Monday – Thursday) | $15 (Friday – Sunday) | $6/car with Wegmans Shoppers Club Card (Mondays and Tuesdays) | 453-6712
Swing by the mansion on James St. for a morning and afternoon with Santa. There will be shops, coloring and other activities, carolers, a visit with Dickens Christmas characters and other surprises.
Breakfast with Santa | 10-11 a.m.
Storytime with Santa | Noon – 2 p.m.
Where: Barnes Hiscock Mansion, 930 James St.
When: Saturday, Dec. 12 | 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Cost: $10 (first child), $5 (each additional child), $2 (adults) | Buy Online | 422-2445
Four-Legged Fun
Santa stops by the local SPCA for some photo opportunities with your pets. All proceeds help fund the shelter.
Where: CNY SPCA, 5878 East Molloy Rd., Syracuse
When: Saturday, Dec. 12 – Sunday, Dec. 13: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Cost: $7 (per picture)
Come hang out with the zoo’s friendly faces as they receive some treats for the holiday season.
Schedule:
10:15 a.m. | African Lion
10:30 a.m. | Meerkat, Fossa
10:45 a.m. | Giant Pacific Octopus
11:00 a.m. | Humboldt Penguin
11:15 a.m. | Gray Wolf
11:30 a.m. | Amur Tiger
11:45 a.m. | Eurasian Lynx
12:00 p.m. | Asian Elephant
12:15 p.m. | Snow Leopard, Red Panda
12:30 p.m. | Spectacled Bear
1:30 p.m. | Desert Lizard
1:45 p.m. | Armadillo, Golden Lion Tamarin
2:00 p.m. | Siamang
2:15 p.m. | Patas Monkey
2:30 p.m. | Lemur
Where: Rosamond Gifford Zoo, One Conservation Pl., Syracuse
When: Saturday, Dec. 12: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Cost: Free for members, included with paid admission
Recycle-A-Bull Bully Breed Rescue
The pit pull rescue program, Recycle-A-Bull, is also hosting Santa Paws. Aside having the opportunity to snap a pic of your pup with Santa, enjoy local vendors with great offerings. Bring clothing and toys a drive to go to local families in need.
Where: Lakeside Fire Department, 1002 State Fair Blvd., Syracuse
When: Sunday, Dec. 13: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
How much: $3 (person), Free (12 and under)
The Great Outdoors
Each weekend, stop by Beaver Lake Nature Center for guided walks and talks. This month, enjoy and learn about winter homes of the creatures that roam around the nature center.
December: Winter Wildlife Homes
January: Tracking Wildlife on Snowshoes*
February: Tracking Wildlife on Snowshoes*
*Offered only on snowshoes, with appropriate snowfall
Where: Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 East Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville
When: Saturday, Dec. 12 – Sunday, Dec. 13: 2 p.m.
Cost: Free with cost of admission | Pre-registration may be required: 683-2519
It’s the second Saturday of the month, which means the Baltimore Woods market is taking place this weekend.
Where: Baltimore Woods Nature Center, 4007 Bishop Hill Road, Marcellus
When: Saturday, Dec. 12: 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Cost: Free to attend
Music
Syracuse Community Choir Winter Solstice Concert
To celebrate 30 years of “peace and justice,” the Syracuse Community Choir will perform Winter Solstice concert at St. Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral.
Where: St. Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral, 310 Montgomery St., Syracuse
When: Saturday, Dec. 12: 7 p.m.
Cost: $15-25 (sliding scale), free (children)
If you need a dose of homegrown holiday music, be sure to check out the bluegrass outfit The Delaney Brothers on Sunday afternoon.
Where: Center for the Arts of Homer, 72 S. Main St., Homer
When: Sunday, Dec. 13: 2 p.m.
Cost: $10 | Buy Online | 877-749-ARTS
Sports
The Toronto Marlies venture back to Syracuse to take on the Crunch this holiday weekend.
Where: Oncenter War Memorial, 515 Montgomery St., Syracuse
When: Saturday, Dec. 12: 7 p.m.
Cost: $16, $20 | Buy Online | 473-4444
Whose side are you on? Of course, you’ll be cheering for the Silver Knights as they host Baltimore Blast. The question is will you join the light or dark side? At this “Star Wars” event, the Knights will be wearing customized “Star Wars” jerseys, which will be auctioned off after the game, and the first 1,000 kids under 16 will be given Blue Rock Energy light swords.
Where: Oncenter War Memorial, 515 Montgomery St., Syracuse
When: Friday, Nov. 11: 7:30 p.m.
Cost: $17.50 (adult), $14.50 (youth) | 303-7261
Syracuse University Women’s Basketball
Come cheer on SU as they host Arizona State. The Orange women are off to a great start and are undefeated at home.
Where: Carrier Dome, Syracuse University, 900 Irving Ave., Syracuse
When: Saturday, Dec. 12: 1 p.m.
Cost: $5, $20 | Buy Online | 1-888-DOME-TIX
Stage
The Landmark Theatre’s camp presents the timeless tale of not-so-much love at first site. The children between the ages of 8 and 15 have been participating in the camp since October, and these are the two culminating performances.
Where: The Landmark Theatre, 362 S. Salina St., Syracuse
When: Saturday, Dec. 12 – Sunday, Dec. 13: 1 p.m. (both days)
Cost: $16 (adults), $10 (children) | 475-7979
Come see Charlie Brown and friends like you may have not seen them before — as puppets. The Open Hand Theater presents Charles Shulz’s Christmas Story with handcrafted puppets.
This weekend:
Friday, Dec. 11 | 7 p.m.
Saturday, Dec. 12 | 11 a.m.
Saturday, Dec. 12 | 2 p.m.
Saturday, Dec. 12 | 7 p.m.
Sunday, Dec. 13| 2 p.m.
Where: Open Hand Theater, 518 Prospect Ave., Syracuse
When: Friday, Dec. 11 – Sunday, Dec. 20
Cost: $15 (adults), $10 (children) | Buy Online | 476-0466
The beloved Christmas story will grace the playhouse’s stage this weekend, kicking off the 10-performance run. Come see Ralphie Parker’s ninth Christmas play-out live as he hopes to find that Red Ryder BB gun under the tree. Bring your own pink rabbit onesies.
This weekend’s schedule:
Thursday, Dec. 10 | 8 p.m.
Friday, Dec. 11 | 8 p.m.
Saturday, Dec. 12 | 8 p.m.
Sunday, Dec. 13 | 2 p.m.
Where: Central New York Playhouse, Shoppingtown Mall, 3649 Erie Blvd. E., Syracuse
When: Thursday, Dec. 10 – Saturday, Dec. 19
Cost: $17 (Thursday, Sunday); $20 (Friday, Saturday)| Buy Online | 885-8960
Syracuse Children’s Theatre presents a musical version of the story we know so well. If you pass up this show, you’ll probably turn into a pumpkin.
This weekend:
Friday, Dec. 11 | 7 p.m.
Saturday, Dec. 12 | 10 a.m.
Saturday, Dec. 12 | 2:30 p.m.
Sunday, Dec. 13| 2 p.m.
Where: Civic Center, 421 Montgomery St., Syracuse
When: Friday, Dec. 11 – Sunday, Dec. 20
Cost: $18.50 (adults), $16.50 (students, seniors), $10 (ages 3 to 12) | Buy Online | 432-5437 (info)
This weekend only! The Redhouse brings the adaptation of the 1981 Pulitzer Prize winning story about three sisters who reunite and face their demons.
Friday, Dec. 11 | 8 p.m.
Saturday, Dec. 12 | 8 p.m.
Sunday, Dec. 13 | 2 p.m.
Where: Redhouse Arts Center, 201 S. West St., Syracuse
When: Friday, Dec. 11 – Sunday, Dec. 13
How much: $15 | Buy Online | 362-2785
Dasher’s Magical Gift
What happens when Santa’s fastest reindeer cannot fly? Well, it certainly creates big problem. The question is: How will Dasher find the courage to confront such an issue and rekindle his Christmas spirit? Come check out this continuing CNY Arts tradition of over three decades.
Where: Crouse Hinds Theater, 421 Montgomery St., Syracuse
When: Saturday, Dec. 12: 11 a.m.
How much: $18-$19 (Section A), $$13.50-$14.50 (Section B), $12.50-$13.50 (Section C), $9-$10 (Section D) | Buy Online | 435-2154
The adventure comes to life, live on stage in this adaptation of the beloved timeless children’s (and adult’s) story. The shows continue until January 3, 2016.
This weekend’s schedule:
Thursday, Dec. 10 | 7:30 p.m.
Friday, Dec. 11 | 8 p.m.
Saturday, Dec. 12 | 3 p.m. & 8 p.m.
Sunday, Dec. 13 | 2 p.m.
Where: Syracuse Stage, 820 E. Genesee St., Syracuse
When: Thursday, Dec. 10 – Sunday, Jan. 3
Cost: Ticket prices vary by day, time: $20 – $53 | Buy Online | 443-3275
Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker
Moscow Ballet presents Tchaikovsky’s masterpiece, “Great Russian Nutcracker,” with world-class Russian dancers, playful puppets and handcrafted sets and costumes. Learn more at nutcracker.com.
Where: Crouse Hinds Theater, 421 Montgomery St., Syracuse
When: Sunday, Dec. 13: 1 p.m. and 5 p.m.
Cost: $28, $37.50, $48, $68 | Buy Online | 435-2121
Binghamton native David Sedaris’ essay adaptation returns to Syracuse Stage to brighten your holiday spirit. Come see Crumpet’s one-person show and hear about his past experiences as an elf at Macy’s.
Where: Syracuse Stage, 820 E. Genesee St., Syracuse
When: Thursday, Dec. 10 – Sunday, Jan. 3
Cost: $40 (adult), $35 (40 and under, seniors, students), $20 (12 and under) | Buy Online | 443-3275
Have you seen Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope? Sure. Have you seen the musical based on that chapter? No? Rarely Done Productions’ “musical romp” will be closing this weekend.
This weekend’s schedule:
Thursday, Dec. 10 | 8 p.m.
Friday, Dec. 11 | 8 p.m.
Saturday, Dec. 12 | 8 p.m.
Sunday, Dec. 13 | 7:30 p.m.
Where: CNY Jazz Central, 441 E. Washington St., Syracuse
When: Thursday, Dec. 10 – Sunday, Dec. 13
Cost: $20 ($22 with online fee) | Buy Online | 546-3224
This weekend at the Fairgrounds
Christmas Craft & Holiday Market
The Country Folk Art Craft Show returns to the New York State Fairgrounds with a holiday-themed showcase.
Friday, Dec. 11 | 5-9 p.m.
Saturday, Dec. 12 | 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Sunday, Dec. 13 | 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Where: Horticulture Building, 581 State Fair Blvd., Syracuse
When: Friday, Dec. 11 – Sunday, Dec. 13
Cost: $7 (adults), Free (10 and under)
CNY Theatre Organ Society Christmas Concert
The holiday show features Rosemary Baily on the Wurlitzer.
Where: Empire Theater, 581 State Fair Blvd., Syracuse
When: Sunday, Dec. 13 | 2:30 p.m.
Cost: Non-members: $20 (adults), $2 (10 and under) | 451-6551