November 2020 – Page 2

When life gives you lemons, bake cookies

Salem’s Fabrizia Spirits launches line of limoncello-infused baked goods

Fabrizia Spirits Baking Co. Photos by Mark Feldman.

When Fabrizia Spirits co-owner Phil Mastroianni started to look ahead to what is normally a quiet winter season for the Salem limoncello producer, he turned to his younger brother Nick with an ambitious idea.
“We’ve been cooking and baking with our limoncello for years,” he said. “When we first started Fabrizia 11 years ago, we would do tastings at some of the liquor stores … and I would bake a limoncello cake and give out samples of it. So I said to Nick that we should start a baking company with our limoncello, and from there it didn’t take too much convincing for him.”
The Fabrizia Lemon Baking Co., which launched on Nov. 5, will feature a full selection of baked goods infused with Fabrizia limoncello that will be introduced over time. The company started with Italian limoncello cookies made from a family recipe, followed by limoncello whoopie pies. More lemon-flavored goodies like cakes and biscotti are expected to be added soon.
Utilizing space the company had recently acquired during a production expansion, Fabrizia added a commercial oven and received a food service license from the Town of Salem.
The cookies are baked fresh every day with all-natural ingredients, including real cane sugar, butter, eggs and lemon zest from freshly squeezed Sicilian lemons. The alcohol from the limoncello that’s used is baked off, making the cookies suitable for consumption of all ages, according to Mastroianni. They come in packages of six, each one weighing individually just over three ounces, and are available for online ordering and shipping.
“We wanted it to be kind of a luxury treat item and not just another run-of-the-mill cookie,” he said. “People really like the crispy exterior and the soft inside. … The lemon zest also makes it unique. When you’re able to use fresh lemon zest, it makes a great difference.”
Shortly after debuting the cookies, Fabrizia introduced lemon whoopie pies. Those feature a lemon cake with the limoncello worked right into the batter, while the cream filling is made from a combination of confectioner’s sugar, marshmallow and finely chopped lemon zest. Each ¼-pound whoopie pie is wrapped individually and can last frozen for up to a year.
By early December, Mastroianni said, the company expects to roll out limoncello biscotti integrated with almonds, a recipe inspired by the two brothers’ grandmother. The baked goods add to Fabrizia’s growing product line, which includes multiple types of limoncello flavors and ready-to-drink canned limoncello-infused cocktails.
From each order placed on Fabrizia’s new baking website, $1 will be donated to Feeding America, a nationwide network of more than 200 food banks across the country.

Fabrizia Lemon Baking Co.
Visit fabrizialemonbakingcompany.com, find them on Facebook and Instagram @fabrizialemonbakingco or call 458-1745 to purchase products, which include limoncello cookies, whoopie pies and other infused baked goods.

Featured photo: Fabrizia Spirits Baking Co. Photos by Mark Feldman.

The Weekly Dish 20/11/26

News from the local food scene

• Support local brews: Granite State craft breweries will once again observe Small Brewery Sunday on Sunday, Nov. 29. The day was created by the Brewers Association as a way to encourage beer lovers to celebrate and support locally owned breweries, brewpubs and taprooms, according to a press release. The Association is inviting breweries everywhere, including those in New Hampshire, to share Small Brewery Sunday on their social media channels using the hashtags #SmallBrewerySunday and #SeekTheSeal. In 2019 the craft brewing industry contributed $82.9 billion to the U.S. economy, but amid the pandemic sales have been down about 22 percent in the third quarter of 2020, according to the release. The New Hampshire Brewers Association is also continuing its NH Pint Days fundraiser through Wednesday, Dec. 2, featuring limited-edition collectible 16-ounce pint glasses available at more than 40 participating breweries in the state. Visit smallbrewerysunday.com.

• Emergency order violations: Three New Hampshire eateries were each fined $500 for not complying with coronavirus emergency orders, according to violation letters issued this week by the state Attorney General’s office. Checkmate Pizza in Concord, Simply Delicious Baking Co. in Bedford and What a Bagel in Nashua all received notices of civil penalties for alleged violations of Emergency Order No. 52, including not requiring customer service staff to wear masks or face-coverings when directly interacting with customers, according to a press release. Each establishment, which received multiple warnings to follow the order, has until Nov. 30 to pay the fine.

• Turkey Drive fundraiser: The Bedford Knights of Columbus, along with members of St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic Church in Bedford, joined forces to raise $10,808 during their annual Turkey Drive to benefit the New Hampshire Food Bank, a program of Catholic Charities New Hampshire, according to a press release. Since donating a few turkeys more than 10 years ago, the Bedford Knights of Columbus’s initiative to support the food bank has grown immensely, raising more than $123,000 over the last decade to help meet holiday food needs in the state. “Partnerships like this are critical in helping us feed our neighbors experiencing hunger,” New Hampshire Food Bank executive director Eileen Groll Liponis said in a statement. As a result of increased demand, the Food Bank expects to continue increasing its food distribution statewide, according to the release.

Dealing with deer

Fences, repellent and other deer deterrents

Winter is near, and for most of us so are the deer. They need extra food now, to get ready for winter, and some of what they eat — green leaves and grasses — is not readily available. So they are eating evergreen plants like yew, arborvitae and rhododendrons in our yards. There are steps you can take to help save your shrubs.

What can you do? You’ve probably heard the solution, but might not like it: an eight-foot deer fence around the perimeter of your property. Even then you might get an occasional Olympic deer that can sail over it. But generally deer are kept out by such a fence.

You don’t have to have a steel fence — lightweight plastic fencing will work, too. And you can use poles to support the fencing, straight young tree trunks you cut yourself from the back forty. And you don’t have to fence your entire property. You could put up temporary fencing just for the winter around a tree or shrub that is particularly attractive to deer that has been browsed in the past.

Recently I helped set up barriers around a pair of large yew shrubs. The shrubs are about six feet tall and wide, and in the past they have been stripped bare by deer. I got four eight-foot hardwood stakes and drove them into the ground around each shrub. I needed a stepladder and a three-pound sledge to do it.

The widest burlap we could buy was 44 inches wide, so my wife Cindy sewed two strips together to make an extra-wide band. We draped the cloth over the stakes, and stapled the cloth to the stakes all the way to the ground. We did not cover the top of the shrub, just the sides, so snow will fall through and not weigh down the cloth. It worked well last year — the poor deer went hungry.

What else? There are numerous repellents that work to a greater or lesser degree. I’ve had great luck using little garlic clips that I get from Gardener’s Supply Co. Each has a clothespin type clip to attach it to a shrub, and has a little cylinder filled with garlic oil. When you poke the device with a tool they provide, it releases the odors for up to six months. I use two per shrub, or more for bigger things or more attractive deer food.

Coyote urine is sold as a deer repellent, too. It is sold with one-ounce plastic bottles that have holes in the sides, a hanger on top and a cotton ball in the bottom. Dribble a little of their magic potion on the cotton, and hang it in a tree. Of course, you can also just bring your dog around the property and let him mark trees and shrubs. Some people hang bars of Irish Spring soap to discourage deer.

There are numerous sprays, too. Bobbex, Deer Away, Liquid Fence and Plantskydd are some of the most commonly sold varieties. Most use rotten eggs, garlic, or fish oils. You might not want to spray your plants the day of a garden party, but most odors disappear to us after a few days. If deer pressure is high, you might want to alternate which one you use.

Deer are creatures of habit. If they know you have good browse, they will come. If they think you have a pet coyote, they will stay away. No dog? Get dog hair from your local pet groomer. Some people hang sachets containing human hair or bars of Irish Spring soap out in their yard to repel the deer.

There are ways to scare deer away, too, but most take some effort to set up. You could install a motion detector attached to a radio with an all-talk radio format. When the deer arrive, Rush Limbaugh comes on and scares them away, I suppose. I’ve seen motion detectors that attach to a hose and send out spray when deer are detected. That only works in summer, obviously.

In areas of high deer population, gardeners sometimes choose their plants based on their appeal to deer. People, Places and Plants magazine (now, sadly, out of business) asked its readers to rate plants eaten by deer. They published the results in Issue No. 45 (2004). Here is some of what they said: Seldom eaten shrubs include boxwood, dogwoods, forsythia and spirea. Occasionally eaten shrubs include blueberry, hydrangeas, lilacs, summersweet clethra and viburnums.

Trees rarely pruned by deer include birch and ginkgo. Their survey listed occasionally eaten trees as Japanese maple, pear, pine, magnolia, spruce, willow and crabapple. I raised an eyebrow when I saw crabapple, as I frequently see apple trees that have been browsed by deer. Crabapples, I assume, would be the same, but please let me know if I’m wrong.

In areas with lots of deer, it makes sense to plant perennials that deer love near the house, and those eschewed by deer farther away. So hostas and tulips, loved by deer, should be right near the house. The survey found flowers usually eaten include lilies, daylilies, hollyhocks, black-eyed Susans, and asters. Scented things like lavender, artemisia and oregano are generally of little interest, and those seldom nibbled include balloon flower, bleeding heart, astilbe, foxgloves, columbine, peonies, Russian sage, yarrow and monkshood.

For a more complete list of deer preferences, you may want to consult a book on the issue. One I like is Outwitting Deer by Bill Adler Jr. But remember, if you have a plant that is dear to you, put a fence around it — there is almost nothing a hungry deer won’t eat.

Featured Photo: Burlap can be used to keep deer away from tasty shrubs. Courtesy photo.

The Art Roundup 20/11/26

The latest from NH’s theater, arts and literary communities

Beatles animator Ron Campbell. Photo by Alex Lowy Photography.

• Virtual art shop: The Picker Artists, an artist co-op in Nashua, is having a virtual holiday sale now through Nov. 30. The online shop features a wide variety of art and crafts, including jewelry, photography, quilting, pottery, stained glass, paintings, collage, prints, 3D art and more. There’s a 20-percent discount on most items priced above $50 with the use of a promo code, according to the website. Orders can be picked up at the Picker Artists building (3 Pine St.), either by going inside (masks required) or by calling to request that they be brought out to your car. Hours are Tuesday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., and Monday by appointment or by chance. Visit shoppickerartists.com or call 930-5080.

• A final look at Manchester’s ponds: Catch “Manchester’s Urban Ponds: Past, Present, and Future: A Celebration of the Manchester Urban Ponds Restoration Program’s 20^th Anniversary,” on display in the Millyard Museum’s (200 Bedford St., Manchester) State Theater Gallery, before it closes on Nov. 28. Through its cleanup efforts, the Manchester Urban Ponds Restoration Program has helped restore the city’s ponds to their historic uses. “Although ponds may not be the first thing one thinks about in Manchester, the Queen City has several ponds that have played an important role in the area’s history,” program coordinator Jen Drociak said in an email. The exhibit provides a look at the history of some of those ponds, including Crystal Lake, Dorrs Pond, Maxwell Pond, Nutts Pond, Pine Island Pond and Stevens Pond. Museum hours are Tuesday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission costs $8 for adults, $6 for seniors age 62 and up and college students, $4 for youth ages 12 through 18, and is free for kids under age 12. Call 622-7531 or visit manchesterhistoric.org/millyard-museum.

• Beatles animation: Ron Campbell, animator of Yellow Submarine and director of Saturday Morning Beatles Cartoon, is coming to Creative Framing Solutions (89 Hanover St., Manchester) to exhibit, sell and discuss his original cartoon paintings of The Beatles and other works from his 50-year career in animation, including Scooby-Doo, Smurfs, Rugrats and more. He’ll be there on Friday, Dec. 4, from 4 to 8 p.m.; Saturday, Dec. 5, from noon to 6 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 6, from noon to 4 p.m. Campbell will also paint original remarques of any one of his cartoon characters onsite for customers who purchase his artwork. The event is free and open to the public. According to a press release, RSVPs are “strongly recommended” as “the demand for meeting Ron Campbell is expected to be great.” Private viewings are available by appointment. Masks are required. Call 320-5988 or visit creativeframingsolutions.com.

• An unlikely angel: Manchester author Nathan Graziano just released a new novella, his ninth full-length book of prose and poetry. Fly Like The Seagull follows The Seagull, a polymorph and modern angel modeled after actor Steven Seagal, who is sent to bring a new mythology and revive faith in the faithless fictional town of Northboro. “Fly Like The Seagull peels back the good, the bad and the ugly and takes a big, juicy bite along the way as [Graziano] navigates the reader through the underbelly of a modern life,” Rob Azevdeo, fellow local author and host of the radio show Granite State of Mind, said of the book in a press release. Visit nathangraziano.com.

• Prestigious exhibit winners announced: The New Hampshire Art Association has announced the Award Winners of its 21st annual Joan L. Dunfey Exhibition, titled “Intrinsic Moments.” First place was awarded to Jacqueline Harrington for her art piece “Dreaming of My Roots,” created using pressed flowers. “The medium surprised and delighted me, leaving me wanting to know more about the artist’s process,” a juror commented, according to a press release. “The work’s composition and colors are as interesting as its materiality, creating a strong visceral and joyful response.” Second place went to Kathryn Terwilliger-Smith for her oil painting “The Game,” and third place went to Lee Gordon for his glass piece “Hem and Haw.” The exhibit, which features juried artwork in a variety of media by regional NHAA members and non-members, is on display now through Nov. 29 at NHAA’s Robert Lincoln Levy Gallery (136 State St., Portsmouth) and in a virtual gallery on the NHAA website. One of the NHAA’s most prestigious exhibits of the year, according to the NHAA website, it is held in honor of Joan L. Dunfey, who was a resident of the New Hampshire Seacoast and a steadfast patron of the arts. Gallery hours are Wednesday and Thursday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday from noon to 5 p.m., and Tuesday by appointment. Visit nhartassociation.org or call 431-4230.

• Art school improvements: The Institute of Art and Design at New England College in Manchester has expanded its offerings for art students, according to a press release. Three additional majors have been added: 3D Studies, Animation, and Game and Digital Media Design. The Institute has also brought on new renowned faculty and redesigned student spaces around campus to create a new photography lab and studio and a new gathering space in the library. Visit nec.edu or call 623-0313.

Art

Exhibits

• “MOMENTS IN NATURE” The New Hampshire Art Association presents oil paintings by BJ Eckardt. Concord Chamber of Commerce Gallery, 49 S. Main St., Concord. On display now through Dec. 17. Visit nhartassociation.org or call 431-4230.

• “UNSEEN LIGHT” The New Hampshire Art Association presents infrared photography by Mark Giuliucci. 2 Pillsbury St., Concord. On display now through Dec. 17. Visit nhartassociation.org or call 431-4230.

• “AN EXTRAPOLATION OF CLOSE OBSERVATION” The New Hampshire Art Association presents prints and paintings by Kate Higley. 2 Pillsbury St., Concord. On display now through Dec. 17. Visit nhartassociation.org or call 431-4230.

• “BIG GIFTS IN SMALL PACKAGES” Artwork priced under $100. Presented by the Seacoast Artist Association. On display now through Dec. 26. 130 Water St., Exeter. Gallery hours are Wednesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and by appointment. Visit seacoastartist.org or call 778-8856.

• “SMALL WORKS – BIG IMPACT” Creative Ventures Gallery’s annual holiday exhibit featuring small works of art in various media, priced affordably for gift buying. Virtual. On display now through Dec. 31. Visit creativeventuresfineart.com or call 672-2500.

Special events

• NHAA 80TH YEAR ANNIVERSARY New Hampshire Art Association hosts a silent art auction fundraiser. Bidding runs through Dec. 11. Visit nhartassociation.org or call 431-4230.

• PAINT NITE a 21+ event featuring the creation of a “Starstruck Snowman” light-up wine bottle at Chunky’s (707 Huse Road, Manchester, chunkys.com) on Sat., Dec. 5, 7 p.m. On Sat., Dec. 12, at 7 p.m., Chunky’s Nashua (151 Coliseum Ave.) will feature a “Birch Buddies Wine Bottle With Lights” project. Tickets $37 for the Manchester event and $35 for the Nashua event (follow link through Chunky’s website to buy ticket).

Theater

Shows

• THE ADVENTURES OF SLEEPYHEAD New Hampshire Theatre Project presents its 2020 – 2021 MainStage Season Opener. Fri., Nov. 27, and Sat., Nov. 28, 7 p.m., and Sun., Nov. 29, 2 p.m. Live in person at 959 Islington St., Portsmouth, and virtual live-stream. In person tickets cost $10. Virtual tickets cost $10 per streaming device. Call 431-6644 or visit nhtheatreproject.org.

Classical

Events

• UTE GFRERER Concert soloist performs. Sat., Nov. 28, 6 and 8 p.m. The Music Hall Historic Theater, 28 Chestnut St., Portsmouth. $130 for a table of two, $260 for a table of four and $390 for a table of six. Visit themusichall.org.

• A DICKENS’ CHRISTMAS WINE DINNER WITH PICCOLA OPERA Piccola Opera’s Dickens Carolers perform. Sat., Dec. 5, 6 to 8 p.m. LaBelle Winery & Event Center, 345 Route 101, Amherst. $387.20 to reserve a table of four, $580.80 to reserve a table of six. Visit labellewineryevents.com.

Handmade holidays

Where to see and shop for art throughout the season

Find all kinds of unique handmade items by local artists and craftspeople at these holiday-inspired art shows and events, some offered in-person, some offered virtually and some with both options.

• The Warner Historical Society has a virtual holiday shop online now at warnerhistorical.org/store, with curbside pickup on Saturday, Dec. 5, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 12, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Upton Chandler House Museum (10 W. Main St., Warner). The shop features hand-painted holiday ornaments, calendars, mugs and drinking glasses, T-shirts, books, jigsaw puzzles and more, plus a holiday raffle. Call 456-2437 or email info@warnerhistorical.org.

• Twiggs Gallery (254 King St., Boscawen) presents its annual “Sleighbell Studio” exhibit now through Dec. 12. It features a curated collection of fine art and crafts affordably priced for holiday gift giving. Gallery hours are Thursday and Friday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. Visit twiggsgallery.wordpress.com or call 975-0015.

• Two Villages Art Society and the Hopkinton Historical Society present “Home for the Holidays: an Art Show & Sale” now through Dec. 20 in Contoocook and online. The show will feature all kinds of art, including oil and watercolor paintings, ceramics, tapestry, woodworking, wearable art, book making and more, created by local artists and artisans. The show will be held in person at the Bates Building (846 Main St.; masks required) on a drop-in and by-appointment basis and virtually at shop.twovillagesart.org. Show hours at the Bates Building are Tuesday through Friday from noon to 4 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with extended hours, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., on Friday, Nov. 27, and Saturday, Nov. 28. Visit twovillagesart.org.

• The Seacoast Artist Association presents its holiday exhibit, “Big Gifts in Small Packages,” now through Dec. 26, at 130 Water St. in Exeter. The exhibit features a variety of artwork priced under $100 for gift buying. Gallery hours are Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and by appointment. Visit seacoastartist.org or call 778-8856.

• Creative Ventures Gallery in Milford presents its annual holiday exhibit, “Small Works — Big Impact,” virtually now through Dec. 31. The exhibit features small works of art in various media, priced affordably for gift buying. Visit creativeventuresfineart.com or call 672-2500.

• The Craftworkers’ Guild’s Holiday Fair will be held virtually from Friday, Nov. 27, through Tuesday, Dec. 22, with curbside pickup at the historic Kendall House (3A Meetinghouse Road, Bedford) daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The fair will feature seasonal decor, photography, fine art and prints, cards, gourmet treats, woodworking, fiber and fabric, stained and fused glass, mixed media, jewelry and more by more than 40 juried artisans and craftspeople. Visit craftworkersguild.org.

• Wrong Brain (55 Third St., Dover) will have its ninth annual “Holidaze Bizaare” alternative craft fair from Nov. 27 through Dec. 30, with fair hours Wednesday through Sunday from noon to 7 p.m. There will be art, apparel, jewelry, ceramics, stuffies, candles, candy and more by dozens of emerging local artists. Virtual shopping with curbside pickup will also be available. Call 834-9454 or visit wrongbrain.net.

• The New Hampshire Art Association hosts its holiday exhibition, “This Merry Moment,” online and at the NHAA’s Robert Lincoln Levy Gallery (136 State St., Portsmouth) from Dec. 2 through Jan. 2. The exhibit and sale will feature a variety of artwork and greeting cards created by NHAA members. Gallery hours are Monday and Tuesday by appointment; Wednesday and Thursday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. An opening reception will be held virtually on Zoom on Friday, Dec. 4, at 6 p.m. Call 431-4230 or visit nhartassociation.org.

Featured photo: Hand-painted ornaments for sale in the Warner Historical Society’s virtual holiday shop. Courtesy photo.

Festive eats

Deliciously fun events for your holiday

From plated dinners to virtual tastings, there’s still tons of foodie fun to be had in New Hampshire this holiday season. Check out these tasty events going on this year.

• The New Hampshire Liquor Commission’s 90 Days Around the World virtual wine and spirit tasting series continues now through Jan. 30, featuring free Q&As, tastings and other interactive events with many of the world’s most esteemed winemakers and spirit purveyors. Visit facebook.com/nhliquorwine to access them. Throughout the 90-day series you can also earn points toward a chance to win multiple prizes and giveaways. Start earning by downloading the free Scavify app.

• Enjoy holiday foods around the world at The Hills Restaurant (Hampshire Hills Athletic Club, 50 Emerson Road, Milford), featuring themed specials inspired by different countries each week, including Greece (Nov. 27 and Nov. 28), Spain (Dec. 3, Dec. 4 and Dec. 5), England (Dec. 10, Dec. 11 and Dec. 12) and Italy, with a Feast of the Seven Fishes (Dec. 17, Dec. 18 and Dec. 19). Visit hampshirehills.com/the-hills-restaurant or call 673-7123 to make a reservation.

• The Culinary Playground (16 Manning St., Derry) is hosting its annual parent-child gingerbread house decorating workshops on Saturday, Nov. 28, from 10 to 11 a.m. or from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.; Sunday, Nov. 29, from 1 to 2 p.m. or from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.; Sunday, Dec. 13, from 10 to 11 a.m. or from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.; and Saturday, Dec. 19, from 4 to 5 p.m. or from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Adults and kids will work together with royal icing and all types of colorful treats and edible decorations to design their own houses. The cost is $45 per parent-child team and registration is required (houses and treats are provided). Visit culinary-playground.com.

• The next Winemaker’s Kitchen cooking with wine class at LaBelle Winery (345 Route 101, Amherst) is scheduled for Wednesday, Dec. 2, from 6 to 7:15 p.m., and will cover holiday recipes like eggnog cocktails, cranberry brie bites and cheesecake bites. The cost is $25 per person. Visit labellewineryevents.com.

• Join Averill House Vineyard (21 Averill Road, Brookline) for felted snowman making and a holiday wine tasting on Thursday, Dec. 3, from 6 to 8 p.m. Tickets are $39.99 per person. Your purchase includes a felted snowman kit, along with a tasting of four Averill wines and a berry, nut and cheese snack pack with chocolate. Visit averillhousevineyard.com.

• The Bedford Village Inn (2 Olde Bedford Way, Bedford) will host a Prisoner wine dinner on Thursday, Dec. 3, at 6 p.m. Sous chef Erik Lourens will prepare this five-course dinner, each of which will feature a selection from the Prisoner Wine Co. The cost is $125 per person and tickets must be purchased in advance (21+ only). Visit bedfordvillageinn.com.

• LaBelle Winery (345 Route 101, Amherst) will host A Very Sinatra Christmas on Thursday, Dec. 3, from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., featuring a three-course dinner, wines and a performance by Boston jazz singer Rich DiMare. Tickets to the plated dinner are by the table only, and there is a six guest limit per table (price breakdowns are $75 per person). Visit labellewineryevents.com.

• This year’s Homeward Bound festival will be held virtually on Thursday, Dec. 3, from 7 to 8 p.m. The event, organized by Family Promise of Southern New Hampshire, will include a livestreamed auction with a variety of items to bid on, including food and wine baskets, holiday decorations and more. Visit familypromisenh.org.

• Join LaBelle Winery (345 Route 101, Amherst) for A Very Dickens Christmas wine dinner on Saturday, Dec. 5, from 6 to 8 p.m., featuring Piccola Opera’s Christmas carolers. The three-course dinner will include wine pairings plus a full bar with beer, wine and cocktails available for purchase. Tickets to the dinner are by the table only, and there is a six guest limit per table (price breakdowns are $80 per person). Visit labellewineryevents.com.

• Stella Blu (70 E. Pearl St., Nashua) will host a Cakebread Cellars wine dinner on Tuesday, Dec. 8, with a Champagne reception from 6 to 6:30 p.m. and a five-course dinner with wine pairings from 6:30 to 9 p.m. The cost is $95 per person and reservations are required. Visit stellablu-nh.com.

• The Amherst Town Library is holding two virtual family gingerbread house workshops via Zoom on Thursday, Dec. 10, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. and on Saturday, Dec. 12, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. The library will provide a take-home kit for you to make graham cracker gingerbread houses at home. Registration is required, as space is limited. Visit amherstlibrary.org.

• Great New England Craft & Artisan Shows will present a socially distanced holiday shopping extravaganza on Friday, Dec. 11, from 5 to 9 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 12, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Hampshire Hills Athletic Club (50 Emerson Road, Milford). The event will feature more than 75 artisan and specialty food vendors selling all types of items for the holiday season, plus a cash bar that will serve up specialty holiday cocktails. Admission and parking are free. Visit gnecraftartisanshows.com.

• Enjoy holiday afternoon tea with The Cozy Tea Cart at the Gatherings at the Colonel Shepard House (29 Mont Vernon St., Milford) on Sunday, Dec. 13, from 1 to 3 p.m. The cost is $39.95 per person and reservations are required. Visit thecozyteacart.com.

• Join the Bedford Village Inn (2 Olde Bedford Way, Bedford) for one of two Champagne brunches on either Sunday, Dec. 13, or Sunday, Dec. 20, with seatings beginning at 11 a.m. on both days. Each event will include a breakfast buffet, a chef-attended carving station, and unlimited mimosas. Tickets are $75 per person and reservations are required. Visit bedfordvillageinn.com.

• LaBelle Winery (345 Route 101, Amherst) will host a Nutcracker ballet family tea event on Sunday, Dec. 13, with two sessions available, from 9:30 to 11 a.m. and from 12:30 to 2 p.m. Each will feature hot tea, sandwiches and sweet treats, as well as choreographed reenactments from Southern New Hampshire Dance Theater performers. Tickets are $25 per person. Visit labellewineryevents.com.

• The Bedford Village Inn (2 Olde Bedford Way, Bedford) will host a Feast of the Seven Fishes dinner on Thursday, Dec. 17, at 6 p.m. In addition to multiple types of fish dishes on the menu, the dinner will include a chef-attended pasta station and an Italian desserts station. The cost is $85 per person and reservations are required (21+ only). Visit bedfordvillageinn.com.

• The Culinary Playground’s (16 Manning St., Derry) next available couples cooking class is scheduled for Friday, Dec. 18, from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. and will cover how to make a steakhouse supper, complete with pan seared flank steak and herbed butter, Dijon roasted potatoes, bacon and maple roasted Brussels sprouts and molten lava cakes. The cost is $160 per couple. Visit culinary-playground.com.

Shows for the season

Where to see holiday theater, music and dance

There are all kinds of holiday shows coming up — both live in-person and virtually from home — including traditional favorites like A Christmas Carol and The Nutcracker and festive music performed in a variety of styles.

• The Palace Theatre (80 Hanover St., Manchester) presents a youth production of A Christmas Carol Jr. from Friday, Nov. 27, through Sunday, Nov. 29, with showtimes at 2 and 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $15 for adults and $12 for kids. Visit palacetheatre.org or call 668-5588.

• The Winter Wonderettes will perform iconic ’60s versions of classic holiday tunes live at the Seacoast Repertory Theatre (125 Bow St., Portsmouth) from Nov. 27 through Dec. 19, with showtimes on Thursday at 7:30 p.m., Friday at 8 p.m., Saturday at 2 and 8 p.m., and Sundays, Nov. 29 and Dec. 6, at 2 and 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $30 to $48. Select performances will also be livestreamed for $20 per viewer. Call 433-4472 or visit seacoastrep.org.

• The Players’ Ring presents a one-man adaptation of A Christmas Carol, performed by Christopher Savage, live at The Players’ Ring Theatre (105 Marcy St., Portsmouth) and virtually from Nov. 27 through Dec. 20. Live showtimes are on Friday at 7:30 p.m., Saturday at 2:30 and 7:30 p.m., and Sunday at 2:30 p.m. Tickets cost the same for the live and virtual shows: $24 for adults, $20 for students and seniors and $15 for kids under age 12. Visit playersring.org or call 436-8123.

• LaBelle Winery & Event Center (345 Route 101, Amherst) presents “A Very Merry Sinatra Christmas,” a three-course dinner featuring Boston jazz singer Rich Dimare, on Thursday, Dec. 3, from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Dimare will perform Frank Sinatra songs as well as holiday favorites. Tickets cost $75 per person. Call 672-9898 or visit labellewinery.com.

• The Dana Center (Saint Anselm College, 100 Saint Anselm Drive, Manchester) presents a concert, “Joyful Christmas” with fiddler Eileen Ivers, live on Friday, Dec. 4, at 5 and 8 p.m. Tickets cost $40. Call 641-7700 or visit anselm.edu/dana-center-humanities.

• The Palace Theatre (80 Hanover St., Manchester) presents its Holiday Spectacular concert from Dec. 4 through Dec. 20, with showtimes on Friday at 7:30 p.m., Saturday at 2 and 7:30 p.m., and Sunday at noon. Inspired by the golden age of television variety shows, the concert features more than 30 classic Christmas songs and a visit from Santa Claus. Tickets cost $39 to $46 for adults and $25 for kids. Visit palacetheatre.org or call 668-5588.

• LaBelle Winery & Event Center (345 Route 101, Amherst) will host A Dickens’ Christmas Wine Dinner featuring Piccola Opera on Saturday, Dec. 5, from 6 to 8 p.m. The opera company will perform Christmas carols throughout the three-course meal. Tickets are sold by table only; it’s $387.20 to reserve a table for four and $580.80 to reserve a table for six. Visit labellewineryevents.com or call 672-9898.

• The Manchester Community Music School will host an Outdoor Holiday Stroll in place of its annual Holiday Pops Concert on Saturday, Dec. 5, and Sunday, Dec. 6, from 5 to 7 p.m. Attendees will be escorted in small groups around the holiday-lighted school grounds, where students and faculty will perform live. Tickets cost $25 per person or $225 for groups of 10 and include holiday treats. Registration is required. Call 644-4548 or visit mcmusicschool.org.

• The New Hampshire School of Ballet presents “Songs for the Holidays” at the Dana Center (Saint Anselm College, 100 Saint Anselm Drive, Manchester) on Sunday, Dec. 6, with performances at 11 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 4 p.m. Tickets cost $18. Call 641-7700 or visit anselm.edu/dana-center-humanities.

• Guitarist Gary Hoey performs a Ho Ho Hoey 25th Anniversary holiday concert at the Tupelo Music Hall (10 A St., Derry) on Sunday, Dec. 6, at 8 p.m. Tickets cost $50. Call 437-5100 or visit tupelomusichall.com.

• Symphony New Hampshire will perform its Holiday Pops concert on Friday, Dec. 11, at 7:30 p.m. at the Dana Center (Saint Anselm College, 100 Saint Anselm Drive, Manchester); Saturday, Dec. 12, at 7:30 p.m. at St. Mary and Archangel Michael Coptic Orthodox Church (39 Chandler St., Nashua); and Sunday, Dec. 13, at 3 p.m. at the Concord City Auditorium (2 Prince St., Concord). Tickets cost $25 for adults, $20 for seniors, $10 for students and free for youth under age 18 accompanied by a ticket-buyer. Visit symphonynh.org or call 595-9156.

• The Music Hall will show a filming ofClara’s Dream: A Jazz Nutcracker,performed there by Mad Theatricals in 2004, at its Historic Theater (28 Chestnut St., Portsmouth) on Wednesday, Dec. 16, at 7 p.m. Tickets cost $15 for adults and $12 for seniors, students, military and first responders. Visit themusichall.org or call 436-2400.

• The Capitol Center for the Arts in Concord presents “Have Yourself a Rockin’ Little Christmas with Lucinda,” a livestreamed holiday concert by singer-songwriter Lucinda Williams, on Thursday, Dec. 17, at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $20. Call 225-1111 or visit ccanh.com.

• Ballet Misha performs The Nutcracker at the Dana Center (Saint Anselm College, 100 Saint Anselm Drive, Manchester) on Saturday, Dec. 19, at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Tickets cost $28. Call 641-7700 or visit anselm.edu/dana-center-humanities.

• Boston jazz singer Rich Dimare performs “A Sinatra Christmas” at the Rex Theatre (23 Amherst St., Manchester) on Saturday, Dec. 19, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $29 in advance and $39 at the door. Call 668-5588 or visit palacetheatre.org/rex-theatre.

• The Music Hall presents A Very Ida Christmas, a holiday show written and performed by Susan Poulin, at its Historic Theater (28 Chestnut St., Portsmouth) on Sunday, Dec. 20, at 2 p.m. Tickets cost $35. Visit themusichall.org or call 436-2400.

• The Bank of New Hampshire Stage (16 S. Main St., Concord) will show a rebroadcast of the Bolshoi Ballet’s performance of The Nutcracker on Sunday, Dec. 20, at 2 p.m. Tickets cost $15 for adults and $12 for students, plus a $3.75 per-ticket fee. Visit banknhstage.com or call 225-1111.

• The Boston Camerata presents “An American Christmas,” on Tuesday, Dec. 22, at 7 p.m. at The Music Hall Historic Theater (28 Chestnut St., Portsmouth). Tickets cost $45. Visit themusichall.org or call 436-2400.

• The New Hampshire School of Ballet will perform The Nutcracker at the Palace Theatre (80 Hanover St., Manchester, palacetheatre.org, 668-5588) on Saturday, Dec. 26, at 6 p.m., and at the Dana Center (Saint Anselm College, 100 Saint Anselm Drive, Manchester, 641-7700, anselm.edu/dana-center-humanities) on Sunday, Dec. 27, at 2 and 6 p.m. Tickets cost $25.

• Safe Haven Ballet presents The Nutcrackerat The Music Hall Historic Theater (28 Chestnut St., Portsmouth) on Saturday, Jan. 2, at 2 and 6 p.m., and Sunday, Jan. 3, at 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. Tickets cost $50 for adults and $45 for seniors and children. Visit themusichall.org or call 436-2400.

Featured photo: Ballet Misha performs The Nutcracker. Photo by Matthew Lomanno.

Get out and run

Virtual races and a couple of in-person events

It wouldn’t be the holiday season without a chance to trot off your turkey or shuffle down the street dressed as Santa. Check out a few runs that are still happening — most virtually, or with a virtual option.

• Registration has closed to participate in person in the Fisher Cats Thanksgiving 5K, but you can still join virtually. Run wherever you are on Thanksgiving morning — or whatever day and time works for you before Nov. 30 — and submit your results online. Virtual registration will be open until 9 a.m. on Sunday, Nov. 29. The cost is $30 for adults and $15 for kids 11 and younger. Adults will get a medal and a T-shirt with their registration. Visit millenniumrunning.com/thanksgiving.

• The Greater Derry Track Club is hosting its 47th annual Turkey Trot 5K Road Race on Thanksgiving morning at Galliens Town Beach on Beaver Lake, with staggered start times beginning at 7:30 a.m. There will not be any race-day registrations, but a virtual option lets you run any time, anywhere, between Nov. 26 and Nov. 29. The cost for the in-person run is $25 for adults and $10 for kids 12 and under. The virtual run is $10 for everyone. Visit gdtc.org/run/index.php/turkey-trot.

• The 22nd annual Galloping Gobbler 4-Miler will be held in person on Thanksgiving morning starting at 9 a.m. at Bishop Brady High School in Concord. Race-day registration starts at 7 a.m., and masks need to be worn at all times until after crossing the start line, if you can maintain a distance of six feet from other runners. Other safety precautions include staying in your car until warm-up is announced. There is also a virtual option this year (if the in-person race is canceled, your registration will automatically be switched to virtual). Virtual runners can run any time, anywhere, from now until the end of the day on Friday, Nov. 27. The cost is $30 for either race. Visit gsrs.com/content/galloping-gobbler-4-miler-2020.

• The Amherst Junior Women’s Club 20th annual Trot Off Your Turkey 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run will be held virtually this year. Run any day in November and post times and photos when you’ve completed your race. The online registration deadline is Friday, Nov. 27, at 11:59 p.m. The cost for the 5K is $25, and the fun run is $10. Visit trotoffyourturkey.wordpress.com.

• The Hampstead Turkey Trot 5K will be in person on Thanksgiving morning, starting at 8:30 a.m. at St. Anne’s Church in Hampstead. Online registration ends Nov. 25; race-day registration will take place between 7:30 and 8:15 a.m., but you will not get a T-shirt and the cost is the same. The cost is $20 for adults, $15 for ages 62 and older, and $12 for ages 17 and under. Non-perishable food for the St. Anne’s Food Bank will be collected. Pets on leashes are welcome. Visit runsignup.com/Race/Events/NH/Hampstead/HampsteadTurkeyTrot.

• The sixth annual Penmen for Patriots 5K will be virtual this year, which means you get to run or walk at any time and in any location. Registration is open until 6:59 p.m. on Nov. 30. The cost is $30, which gets you a Penmen for Patriots 5K runner’s bib in the mail; then, on Dec. 22, you’ll be able to pick up a race packet at Runner’s Alley in Manchester, which will include a long-sleeved Penmen for Patriots 5K shirt, a gift card from Able Ebenezer Brewing in Merrimack and other swag. After Nov. 22, the race packets will go out in the mail. All proceeds benefit Easterseals Veterans Count. Visitvetscount.org/nh/events/penmen-patriots-5k.

• Walk, jog or run the Santa Claus Shuffle in Manchester on Saturday, Dec. 5, and get samples at four sweet stops (chocolate, milk & cookies, candy and maple!) along the three-mile Elm Street route, which begins and ends at Veterans Park. The run will have a time trial start format, with start times staggered between 1 and 3 p.m. Early bib pickup will be available at Millennium Running in Bedford on Thursday, Dec. 3, and Friday, Dec. 4, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Race-day pickup will be available from 1 to 3 p.m. Masks are required at check-in, in the staging zone and corral zone, in the post-race area, and any time a distance of six feet cannot be maintained. Two runners will start every 10 seconds to allow for distancing. There’s also a virtual option that lets you run whatever day and time you want between Nov. 30 and Dec. 6. All runners will get a Santa suit with their registration. The cost is $25 for the virtual run. The in-person run is $30 for ages 21 and up, $25 for ages 12 to 20 and $10 for ages 11 and younger. If race-day registration is available, the cost is $5 more for ages 12 and up. Visit millenniumrunning.com/santa.

Tree traditions

Virtual tree-lightings, festivals of trees and more

From virtual tree lightings to community-wide light displays, cities and towns all across New Hampshire are still finding ways to get you into the holiday spirit. Check out this list of places and times to enjoy a lit up holiday spectacle and find one near you.

• This year, the Feztival of Trees at Bektash Shrine Center in Concord is going virtual. While there will be no in-person attendance during the tree raffle show, you can enter in the raffle online to win now through Dec. 4 at noon. The winners will then be drawn that same day at 1 p.m. To enforce social distancing, winners can book a time slot from Dec. 4 through Dec. 6 to pick up their trees. Visit nhshriners.org for more details.

• This year’s Exeter Festival of Trees has been reimagined as an online fundraiser for the Community Children’s Fund. Now through Thursday, Dec. 3, at noon, you can donate $25 to be entered to win a beautifully decorated artificial tree. Drawings will be conducted that evening. You can also stop in to Shooter’s Pub (6 Columbus Ave., Exeter) and Arjay Ace Hardware (55 Lincoln St., Exeter) to see the trees that are up for grabs. Visit exeterareacharitablefoundation.org.

• Concord’s annual Christmas tree lighting celebration will be held at the Statehouse Plaza (North Main Street) on Friday, Nov. 27, at 4 p.m. Visit concordnh.gov.

• The 12th annual Southern New Hampshire Festival of Trees, hosted by Pelham Community Spirit, is happening at Sherburne Hall in the municipal building (6 Village Green, Pelham), from Friday, Nov. 27, through Saturday, Dec. 5, at varying times, when participants will have a chance to win a decorated tree. Admission is $5 for adults and free for kids ages 12 and under (multiple-day passes are also available). Raffle tickets are $5 per sheet of 25 tickets. Visit snhfestivaloftrees.pelhamcommunityspirit.org.

• Get your tickets now for a holiday tree lighting and family dinner at LaBelle Winery (345 Route 101, Amherst) on Sunday, Nov. 29, starting with a multi-course meal served at 5:30 p.m., and the lighting at 6:45 p.m., snow or shine. There will also be live holiday music and a full bar with beer, wine and cocktails available for purchase. After dinner, guests will be invited to get hot cocoa and cookies while walking over to the vineyard overlook for the tree lighting. The cost for the dinner is by table only (price breakdown is $49 for adults and $24 for kids ages 12 and under). Reservations are required. Visit labellewineryevents.com.

• Auburn’s Tree Lighting will be held on Sunday, Nov. 29, at 6 p.m. in the parking lot of the Auburn Village School (11 Eaton Hill Road, Auburn). Masks or face-coverings are required if you’re attending in person, or you can stream it on the town’s Parks & Recreation department Facebook page @auburnnhparksandrec.

• Rivier University in Nashua will hold its campus Christmas tree lighting virtually this year, on Thursday, Dec. 3, at 6 p.m. The lighting will be shared live on the Rivier University Alumni Facebook page. Visit rivier.edu.

• Rochester’s holiday tree lighting will be held virtually this year, airing on Friday, Dec. 4, at 5 p.m. on the City and Chamber of Commerce’s websites and Facebook pages. The event will feature special holiday dance performances from the Studio 109 dance school, and a reading of “The Night Before Christmas” by Rochester Mayor Caroline McCarley. Visit rochesternh.org.

• Bethany Church’s Greenland campus (500 Breakfast Hill Road) will hold a Christmas tree lighting on Saturday, Dec. 5, at 5:30 p.m. Participants can enjoy a live Nativity scene, sing festive Christmas carols and indulge in Christmas cookies and warm drinks. Visit bethanychurch.com.

• Windham’s annual tree lighting will be held on Saturday, Dec. 5, at 5 p.m. on the Windham Town Common. Attendees are invited to socially distance with masks or enjoy the lighting from the warmth of their cars. Visit windhamnh.gov.

• There will be a brief tree lighting at Abbie Griffin Park (6 Baboosic Lake Road, Merrimack) on Sunday, Dec. 6, at 4 p.m. featuring Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus, who will be travelling throughout town with the Merrimack Fire Department beginning at 2:45 p.m. Visit merrimackparksandrec.org.

• The annual Amherst Tree Lighting Festival will be held virtually on Friday, Dec. 11, at 6 p.m. You can also visit LaBelle Winery (345 Route 101, Amherst) on Sunday, Dec. 13, between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. and receive a complimentary mimosa if you mention the virtual tree lighting festival (be sure to make a reservation in advance). Visit labellewineryevents.com.

Family-friendly holiday fun

Kids’ storytimes, Santa visits and more

From storytimes and holiday movie screenings to visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, check out these events to get into the holiday spirit this season.

• The Pelham Parks & Recreation Department is inviting kids ages 10 and under to receive a special letter from Santa this holiday season. Forms can be picked up at the department’s office (6 Village Green, Pelham) and filled out and submitted by Friday, Dec. 4. Completing the forms with as much detail as possible is encouraged to further contribute to the personalization of the letters. Visit pelhamweb.com/recreation or call 635-2721.

• Now through Friday, Dec. 18, kids can mail their “wishlist” to Santa Claus by dropping it off in the “North Pole” express mailbox at the Bedford Town Office building (24 N. Amherst Road). All kids dropping off a letter will receive a return letter addressed to them. Visit bedfordreconline.com for more details.• Visit Santa Claus at Bass Pro Shops (2 Commerce Drive, Hooksett) now through Dec. 24. Santa will have an acrylic “magic shield” barrier in place between families at all times this year. Free online reservations are required, as spots are limited to allow social distancing. Visit basspro.com/santa.

• The Hudson Lions Club will present a drive-thru visit with Santa Claus, who will arrive by fire truck in the parking lot of Alvirne High School (200 Derry Road, Hudson) on Friday, Nov. 27, at 2 p.m. “Elves” will also be giving out goodie bags for kids. Visit nhlions.org/hudson.

• Tickets are still available for a Frozen viewing party at select Chunky’s Cinema & Pub locations, including on Friday, Nov. 27, at 12:30 p.m. at the Manchester theater (707 Huse Road), and on Sunday, Nov. 29, at either 12:30 p.m. or 6 p.m., at the Pelham theater (150 Bridge St.). Tickets are $6.99 per person. Visit chunkys.com.

• See a screening of the classic film The Wizard of Oz on either Friday, Nov. 27, or Saturday, Nov. 28, at The Flying Monkey Movie House & Performance Center (39 Main St., Plymouth). The doors open at 6 p.m., and the film begins at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults and $7 for seniors and students. Visit flyingmonkeynh.com.

• The Children’s Museum of New Hampshire (6 Washington St., Dover) is offering holiday gift making kits that include five projects kids can make to give as gifts to loved ones. Kits cost $45 per child ($40 for members) and can be ordered online and picked up at the museum the week of Dec. 1. You’ll be emailed a list of pick-up time slots to choose from, which will be in the early evening. Projects include painting and arranging a centerpiece, making a static electricity ornament, designing a shrink art keychain or necklace, making a hanging barrier and more. Kits are best suitable for kids ages 3 ½ to 12. If any are remaining after Dec. 3, they will be available to purchase in the museum shop during its regular operating hours (Thursday to Saturday, 9 to 11:30 a.m., or 1 to 3:30 p.m.). Visit childrens-museum.org.

• Take an online art class via Zoom with the Wild Salamander Creative Arts Center (30 Ash St., Hollis). The next available classes include painting with wool on Tuesday, Dec. 1, at 5:45 p.m. (ages 11 and up; register by Nov. 27); felting a snowy owl on Wednesday, Dec. 2, at 5:30 p.m. (ages 8 and up; register by Nov. 27); and felting holiday gnomes on Thursday, Dec. 3, at either 3:30 or 5:30 p.m. (ages 8 and up; register by Nov. 27). Visit wildsalamander.com.

• Join The Music Hall (28 Chestnut St., Portsmouth) for a screening of the classic holiday film A Christmas Story on Tuesday, Dec. 1, at 7 p.m. Tickets range from $12 to $15 per person. Visit themusichall.org.

• Now through Dec. 3, you can see a showing of The Santa Clauseat any of the three Cinemagic locations in the Granite State (38 Cinemagic Way, Hooksett; 11 Executive Park Drive, Merrimack; 2454 Lafayette Road, Portsmouth). Tickets are $5 per person. Visit cinemagicmovies.com for showtimes.

• Charmingfare Farm (774 High St., Candia) has combined its Santa’s Big Party and Lighted Winter Wonderland events into one celebration, Santa’s Christmas. Individual tickets are not being sold; only packages are available, for $249 (one package is good for up to 10 people), with various times available to visit the farm on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, Dec. 4 through Dec. 6, Dec. 11 through Dec. 13 or Dec. 18 through Dec. 20. Horse-drawn wagons are divided into two sections of 10 passengers each. Attractions include a live animal nativity, visits with Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus and live “reindeer,” s’mores kits, hot cocoa and complimentary cookies. Visit visitthefarm.com to check available times.

• The Milford Recreation Department is hosting Miracle on Elm Street, a holiday drive-thru event happening on Saturday, Dec. 5, with multiple time slots beginning at 9 a.m. Starting at the west entrance of Keyes Memorial Park (127 Elm St., Milford), participants will drive through the event, and kids will receive free treats at several booths along the way. The cost is $5 per car and pre-registration is required (only 20 cars will be allowed for each time slot). Visit milfordrec.com.

• Join the Millyard Museum (200 Bedford St., Manchester) for a holiday open house on Saturday, Dec. 5, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., which will feature children’s holiday crafts, raffles, locally made products for sale and more. All are welcome free with museum admission. Visit manchesterhistoric.org.

• Legacy Lane Farm (217 Portsmouth Ave., Stratham) will host Christmas on the Farm on Saturday, Dec. 5, at 10 a.m. featuring visits with Santa Claus, holiday crafts, hot cocoa, Christmas carolers, a petting zoo and more. The cost is $10 per person. Visit legacylanefarm.com.

• See Santa Claus at Greeley Park (100 Concord St., Nashua) for a socially distanced visit on Saturday, Dec. 5, from noon to 2 p.m., featuring photo opportunities, free gifts and more. Visit nashuanh.gov.

• Join the YMCA of Greater Londonderry (206 Rockingham Road, Londonderry) for its annual Great Candy Cane Hunt on Saturday, Dec. 5, from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Santa Claus will hide hundreds of candy canes around the YMCA for you to look for during the event. Start by receiving your candy cane hunt bag at the check-in table, then venture to the field for the hunt. Santa will also be there for socially distanced photo opportunities. This year there will be groups of 32 people per 30-minute time slot to help with social distancing (bring your own flashlight). Masks or face coverings are required for all participants. Visit graniteymca.org.

• Chunky’s Cinema & Pub’s Manchester location (708 Huse Road) will convert a theater to an evening of family-friendly candy Bingo on Saturday, Dec. 5, at 6 p.m., featuring movie theater-sized candy boxes as prizes and the big screen as a bingo board. Tickets of $4.99 per person will get you a box of Chunky’s theater candy that you’ll turn in to get your bingo cards. Once all the candy is collected, Chunky’s staff will divide it up and start playing the rounds. Visit chunkys.com for more details.

• Enjoy Christmas at the Farm, reimagined, at Forgotten Farm (23 Goffstown Road, Hooksett). Families can visit from 10 a.m. to noon on the first three Saturdays in December (Dec. 5, Dec. 12 and Dec. 19) for cookies, cocoa, visits with the farm animals, and a free take-home craft. Visit forgottenfarm.weebly.com.

• The Derry Public Library will host a virtual holiday gift making workshop on Tuesday, Dec. 8, from 4 to 5 p.m. The library will post tutorials for Sharpie mugs, hot chocolate kits and gift bags on its Facebook and YouTube pages. Register in advance to pick up a Take It and Make It bag in the library’s lobby. If registration is full, you can still complete the projects with materials at home. Visit derrypl.org.

• Join the Manchester City Library (405 Pine St., Manchester) for a virtual Polar Express bedtime event on Wednesday, Dec. 9, from 6 to 7 p.m. Goodie bags with treats and crafts will be available for curbside pickup beginning Dec. 1. The virtual program will include Christmas carol sing-alongs and demonstrations on how to make the crafts. Visit manchester.lib.nh.us.

• See a showing of the 2013 animated children’s film Frozenat any one of the Cinemagic theatres in the Granite State (38 Cinemagic Way, Hooksett; 11 Executive Park Drive, Merrimack; 2454 Lafayette Road, Portsmouth) now through Thursday, Dec. 10. Tickets are $5 per person. Visit cinemagicmovies.com for available times.

• Santa Claus will arrive by helicopter at the Aviation Museum of New Hampshire (27 Navigator Road, Londonderry) on Saturday, Dec. 12, at 11 a.m., where he’ll greet families and take gift requests until 1 p.m. The outdoor event is free and open to the public. Hot chocolate will also be provided courtesy of the Airport Diner in Manchester. Visit aviationmuseumofnh.org.

• Chunky’s Cinema & Pub (707 Huse Road, Manchester, 206-3888; 151 Coliseum Ave., Nashua, 880-8055; 150 Bridge St., Pelham, 635-7499) will host multiple Polar Express golden ticket screenings on Saturday, Dec. 12, and Sunday, Dec. 13. Showtimes vary depending on the location, but there are several each day at each theater. Kids will be given a special “golden ticket” to hole-punch prior to entering the theater. Visit chunkys.com.

• The Music Hall (28 Chestnut St., Portsmouth) will screen the family holiday film Elf on Tuesday, Dec. 15, at 7 p.m. Tickets range from $12 to $15. Visit themusichall.org.

• Enjoy a Polar Express family brunch with LaBelle Winery (345 Route 101, Amherst) on either Sunday, Dec. 20, or Thursday, Dec. 24, from 10 a.m. to noon. The event will feature a multi-course brunch menu accompanied by a screening of the family holiday film The Polar Express. Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus will be stopping by for a live reading of “’Twas the Night Before Christmas.” Tickets to the brunch are by the table only, and there is a six guest limit per table (price breakdowns are $22.99 per person). Visit labellewineryevents.com.

Month: November 2020