12/21-23: A CHRISTMAS STORY: THE MUSICAL 
Nearly two decades after its best-selling release, public radio host Jean Shepherd’s book of humorous, semi-truthful short stories would serve as the loose basis for the 1983 cult-classic film, A Christmas Story. Though it emerged the week before Thanksgiving that year as a commercial misfire, the holiday comedy—which Shepherd narrates—has become essential viewing.

This month, the Tony-nominated musical adaptation, composed by the songwriting team behind the Oscar-winning La La Land and Broadway hit Dear Evan Hansen, will take to the Hippodrome stage on December 21-23. Follow nine-year-old Ralphie Parker as he lobbies for a Red Ryder BB gun, dons fuzzy pink pajamas, and navigates Christmas mischief in small-town Indiana. The nostalgia-packed performance should be three nights of festive fun. Hippodrome Theatre at the France-Merrick Performing Arts Center. Tues.-Wed. 7 p.m., Thur. 2 & 7 p.m.

12/2: 50TH ANNUAL MONUMENT LIGHTING
Invite your friends and loved ones to enjoy this wintery ritual at Mount Vernon Place, complete with festive outdoor entertainment, tasty bites, and flashy fireworks to paint the city skyline. Mount Vernon Place. 5-8 p.m.

12/2: AN EVENING WITH ROHULAMIN QUANDER
The retired D.C. judge, renowned historian, and author will discuss his latest book, The Quanders: Since 1684, An Enduring African American Legacy. Enoch Pratt Free Library. 6:30 p.m.

12/2: STRAIGHT NO CHASER
The all-male a cappella group of multi-platform streaming fame is headed to The Lyric to promote its latest album, Social Christmasing. Yacht rock maven Kenny Loggins lends a hand with “Celebrate Me Home.” The Lyric. 7:30 p.m. $35-65.

12/4: 12 BARS OF CHRISTMAS CRAWL
Ugly sweaters are encouraged for this festive downtown bar crawl, with admission including a complimentary Santa hat and color-changing cup to hold your drink. Power Plant Live. 12-8 p.m. $12.

12/4: DIRTY GRASS PLAYERS/KENDALL STREET COMPANY
Hear live music by these homegrown bluegrass greats, with an opening set by Virginia-based jam band Kendall Street Company. The 8×10. Times & prices vary.

12/4: JOE BONAMASSA
The prolific blues guitarist and mentee of the luminary musician B.B. King will perform a night of fan-favorite tunes, such as “Lazy,” “Mountain Climbing,” and “I’d Rather Go Blind.” The Lyric. 8 p.m. $52-79.

TO 12/4: WE’RE NOT MEANT TO DO THIS ALONE
Artist Charles Mason III was inspired by the words of lauded writer Alice Walker to curate this new exhibit, which explores the implications and complexities of “place.” Creative Alliance. Sat. 12-5 p.m.

12/4: HOLIDAY HEAP
This locally loved holiday festival returns to Charles Village with handmade wares, eclectic art, and artisanal food by the region’s nest makers. Vaccination required. St. John’s Church. Times vary.

TO 12/5: TOOTSIE
Based on the 1982 comedy film of the same name, Tootsie promises to be a “laugh-out-loud” performance for all, with the musical rendition described as “the most uproarious new show in years” by The Hollywood Reporter. Hippodrome Theatre at the France-Merrick Performing Arts Center. Times & prices vary.

12/5: AN AFTERNOON OF POETRY WITH CAVE CANEM
Annapolis-born wordsmith Reggie Harris hosts local Cave Canem Foundation fellows, with poetry readings by Mahogany L. Browne and Teri Ellen Cross Davis. Enoch Pratt Free Library. 2 p.m.

12/5: PAUL LEWIS
The British classical pianist makes his long-awaited Baltimore debut at Shriver Hall, where he will perform the likes of Mussorgsky’s vivid Pictures at an Exhibition. Shriver Hall. 5:30 p.m. $10-44.

12/7: CHRISTMAS WITH CHORAL ARTS
In its 38th year, this holiday tradition makes a comeback after COVID-19 to bring brassy sounds and quintessential carols to the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen. Sing along at home (or from wherever you are) when you tune into WYPR, WBJC, or WMAR-TV. Baltimore Choral Arts Society. 7:30 p.m. $38-76.

12/7: THE 1930S: DECADE OF UNCERTAINTY
The BMI’s senior museum educator, Jack Burkert, facilitates this in-depth look at 1930s Baltimore, a city on the brink of change brought on by one of history’s most grievous blows: The Wall Street Crash of 1929. Baltimore Museum of Industry. 7:00 p.m.

12/7-1/2: THE SKIN OF OUR TEETH
At Everyman Theatre, follow the Pulitzer Prize-winning tale of New Jersey patriarch George Antrobus, who stops at nothing to shield his brood from unrelenting misfortune. Everyman Theatre. Times & prices vary.

12/9: MOTOWN CHRISTMAS
Motown comes to Harbor East for one enchanting night by way of this soul-studded medley. Embrace the Christmas spirit with a host of Hitsville favorites by the likes of The Temptations, Smokey Robinson, and more. Keystone Korner. 7:30 p.m. $30-35.

12/9: OBJECT FOCUS: ARCHANGEL MICHAEL IVORY
Tune in virtually as a team of experts traces the intercontinental roots behind this age-old artwork, which currently resides at The Walters after almost 40 years spent shielded from the public eye. The Walters Art Museum. 7 p.m.

12/9: SAILING TO FREEDOM: A MARITIME HISTORY OF MARYLAND’S UNDERGROUND RAILROAD
Historian Richard Bell joins archaeologist Cheryl Janifer LaRoche and author Timothy D. Walker to virtually discuss his latest book, which explores the little-mentioned role of Chesapeake-based waterways in guiding enslaved Marylanders to freedom. Maryland Center for History and Culture. 12 p.m.

12/10: MUSIC UNDER THE DOME: THE DARK SIDE OF THE MOON
In the Science Center’s Davis Planetarium, the top hits of 1970s rock group Pink Floyd take on new panoramic life in this immersive experience, complete with psychedelic sights and sounds. Maryland Science Center. 7-10 p.m. $35.

12/10-12: A WINTRY DANCE
The Mount Vernon Virtuosi troupe summons the theme of winter with performances of works by great composers Joseph Haydn, Gustav Holst, and Arcangelo Corelli. Mount Vernon Virtuosi. Locations & times vary.

12/11: JINGLE BELL RUN
This year’s festive 5K race returns to West Shore Park. Jog in-person with friends or chart your own virtual course to benefit the Arthritis Foundation. 401 Light St. Times TBD. $25-45.

12/11: MAKE YOUR OWN MIXERS CLASS WITH CANE COLLECTIVE
The Baltimore-based Cane Collective team conducts an interactive crash course at the Sagamore Distillery, complete with cocktail samplings and your own handcrafted mixer to enjoy at home. Sagamore Spirit. 11 a.m. $65. 

TO 12/12: DREAMGIRLS
It’s the early 1960s, and the Dreamettes are embarking on their path to Motown stardom. Visit Center Stage to find out if the sparkle-sporting trio pays the price for showbiz fame. Center Stage. Times vary. $45.

12/12-4/10/2022: THE REMBRANDT EFFECT
At the BMA’s new Nancy Dorman and Stanley Mazaroff Center for the Study of Prints, Drawings and Photographs, the fabled Dutch printmaker’s works collide with contemporary graphic art. Baltimore Museum of Art. Wed.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

12/12-4/24/2022: MATISSE: THE SINUOUS LINE
The French artist’s fabled and distinctive use of line—as evinced by his sculpted work and sketches—makes its debut at the BMA’s
new Ruth R. Marder Center for Matisse Studies. Baltimore Museum of Art. Wed.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

12/16: ARTIST TALK: TOOLS OF THE TRADE
In this virtual talk, local jewelry artists Mary Raivel and Earl Jones explore the time-held works of artist Betty Cooke in celebration of her current exhibition, The Circle and the Line. The Walters Art Museum. 5:30 p.m.

12/16: NOT SO SILENT NIGHT
Indulge in an array of festive treats, sip on sugary concoctions, and show off your dance moves at this sweet soiree, which takes place at Center Plaza’s all-new Candy Lane exhibit. Center Plaza. 7-11 p.m. Prices vary.

12/17: A JOURNEY TO FUNKTOPIA
With a stirring set of tracks from their new album, Yes Love Music, The Jonathan Gilmore Project yields an electrifying soundscape. Creative Alliance. 8 p.m. $25-28.

12/17: GINUWINE
Belt your heart out as the ’90s hip-hop mogul, known for R&B bangers such as “Pony” and “So Anxious,” takes the downtown mic. Baltimore Soundstage. 8 p.m. $38.

TO 12/19: WOMEN BEHAVING BADLY: 400 YEARS OF POWER & PROTEST
Spanning the Renaissance through the 20th century, this multi-medium exhibition depicts women who defied societal standards and patriarchal authority throughout history. The Baltimore Museum of Art. Wed.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

TO 12/19: FIRES IN THE MIRROR
Based on a collection of real-life interviews, this riveting tale follows the tension and resulting violence between Black and Jewish residents of Crown Heights, Brooklyn. Baltimore Center Stage. Times & prices vary.

TO 12/20: BALTIMORE FARMERS’ MARKET & BAZAAR
The largest producers-only market in Maryland has become a Sunday ritual for thousands of Baltimoreans, with food, flowers, and more beneath the Jones Falls Expressway. Holliday & Saratoga Sts. Sun. 7 a.m.-12 p.m.

12/20-22: A VERY JERRY CHRISTMAS WITH CRIS JACOBS & FRIENDS
Cris Jacobs, aka “the king of Baltimore rock ‘n’ roll,” brings The Grateful Dead to life with a selection of essentials by the psychedelic band. Groove along to tracks including “Touch of Grey,” “Box of Rain” and “Eyes of the World.” The 8×10. Times & prices vary.

TO 12/23: CANDY LANE IN CENTER PLAZA
For the first time ever, Center Plaza comes to life with sugar-spun splendor. Stop for photos as you saunter through a candy-coated wonderland adorned with 24-foot ice cream cones and sweet displays. 100 N. Charles St. 4-9 p.m.

TO 12/24: CHRISTMAS VILLAGE IN BALTIMORE
Baltimore’s authentic German Christmas market returns for its eighth season with plenty of crafts from over 50 local and international vendors, plus German delicacies, such as bratwurst, sauerkraut, and pretzels. Inner Harbor. Mon.-Sun. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Free-$5. 

TO 12/31: MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET
This annual holiday tradition in Hampden features an entire city block of festive decor and thousands of wintery lights through New Year’s. W. 34th St. 6-11 p.m.

TO 12/31: MOMENTS OBSERVED
Self-taught sculptor J. Clayton Bright embraces natural realism in his artwork, now on display throughout Ladew Gardens through the end of the year. Ladew Gardens. Thurs.-Tues. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Free-$15.

TO 1/2/22: ZOO LIGHTS
From Thanksgiving through New Year’s Day, the Maryland Zoo hosts its highly anticipated celebration of holiday lights among the animals. The Maryland Zoo. Fri.-Sun. 5-8 p.m. Free-$26.

TO 1/2/2022: ANIMATIONLAND
Delve into the world of animation and storytelling in this new interactive experience for all ages at Port Discovery. Port Discovery Children’s Museum. Wed.-Sun. 10 a.m.-1 p.m., 2-5 p.m. Free-$19.95. 

TO 1/2/2022: A MODERN INFLUENCE: HENRI MATISSE, ETTA CONE, AND BALTIMORE
Take a deep dive into the BMA’s renowned Cone Collection, with a particular emphasis on the friendship and partnership sister Etta Cone shared with famed French artist Henri Matisse. Baltimore Museum of Art. Wed.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

TO 1/2/2022: BETTY COOKE: THE CIRCLE AND THE LINE
In the first major museum retrospective of her work, 97-year-old Baltimore artist Betty Cooke displays her American Modernist studio jewelry, plus drawings, photography, and design sketches from throughout her eight-decade career. The Walters Art Museum. Wed.-Thurs. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

TO 1/4/2022: TELL OUR STORY
Explore the powerful work of Baltimore photographer Robert Houston, including documentation of the 1968 Poor People’s Campaign and Resurrection City, alongside images by contemporary Baltimore and D.C.-based photographers. Reginald F. Lewis Museum. Mon, Thurs.-Sat. 12-5 p.m. Free-$12.

TO 1/9/2022: COLOR AND ILLUSION
In the first such U.S. exhibition in 35 years, explore the pioneering art of Spanish Cubist artist Juan Gris through more than 40 paintings and collages. The Baltimore Museum of Art. Wed.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

TO 1/17/2022: SMALL WORKS – BIG CAUSE
Virtually view and shop a sea of small-scale masterpieces made by local artists. Proceeds from sales will support Creative Alliance’s work. Creative Alliance. Times & prices vary.

TO 7/30/2022: LOSING WINTER
Through a range of photographs, this exhibition portrays Marylanders’ reflections on past winter seasons. As the state’s climate changes, their recollections detail a sense of personal loss. Maryland Center for History & Culture. Wed.-Sat. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Free-$9.

TO 9/4/2022: HEALING AND THE ART OF COMPASSION (AND THE LACK THEREOF!)
Upon retirement, AVAM founder Rebecca Hoffberger curates her last exhibition, where visionary artists explore the symbiotic relationship between the twin powers of healing and compassion. American Visionary Art Museum. Wed.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free-$15.95.

Five things to eat, drink, see, hear, and do with your Charm City weekend.

 EAT

December 16: S’mores, Stars, & the Winter Solstice

Lake Roland, 1000 Lakeside Dr. 6-8 p.m. $3-5. 410-887-4156.

As the days get shorter and the nights get longer, we’re reminded of how quickly we’re approaching the next solstice and the official start of winter. Despite drop in temperature, celebrate this astronomical phenomenon with lessons about the night sky and folklore of holiday traditions. While you’re huddled beneath thick blankets, you can warm up by the bonfire at Lake Roland, roast some marshmallows, and assemble your own s’mores. This campfire classic—toasted mallow and melted chocolate sandwiched between crunchy graham crackers—will keep you cozy all night.

 DRINK

December 15: Comedy & Cocktails

Single Carrot Theatre, 2600 N. Howard St. 8-9:30 p.m. $10. 443-844-9253.

They say that laughter is the best medicine, and with 2017 going out in such a successfully stressful bang, we have to admit: We could really use a strong prescription. This Friday, Single Carrot is bringing us some relief with an evening of standup comedy with the added bonus of cocktails. Throw back some laughs with Baltimore’s up-and-coming comedians, including Peter Muth, Bryan Preston, and headliner Chelsea Shorte, at the intimate local theater located in Remington. And if you need help loosening up, take advantage of a free drink—be it spiked apple cider, special cocktails, Natty Boh, or wine. 

 SEE

December 16: Post Typography Print & Poster Sale

Post Typography, 2219 St. Paul St. 12-4 p.m. Free. 410-889-7469.

We don’t know about you, but we gush over beautiful typography and clean designs, especially those of concert-poster principal Post Typography. If you feel the same way, stop by the press’s Old Goucher studio this Saturday for its annual print and poster sale. Whether you’re looking to complete your office aesthetic or hunting for a reasonably priced gift, you’ll stumble upon a smorgasbord of artwork packed with personality, color, and fantastic fonts on everything from paper products to ephemera and apparel. They’ll certainly have the classic Bill Murray Groundhog Day movie poster (an oversized image of Murray made from thousands of pixelated Bills). But keep your eyes out for some specials, including a special Future Islands touring poster that doubles as a giant constellation chart, signed posters from the Maryland Film Festival, and out-of-print Double Dagger vinyl. Items can’t be reserved ahead of time, so make sure you’re one of the first to get there. 

 HEAR

December 16: 15 Years of Arbouretum

Ottobar, 2549 N. Howard St. 9 p.m. $10-12. 410-662-0069. 

Since 2002, this legendary quartet has captured local audiences with their intricate jams, profound and poetic lyrics, and distinctive brand of alternative rock. Even after a years-long hiatus, fans remained loyal and hoped for a comeback, which, luckily, they got. In March, the band unveiled Song of the Rose, an album comprised of eight tracks displaying their compelling sound. It led to star reviews and a jam-packed show at the Ottobar with listeners young and old. This Saturday, hear them live in celebration of 15 years of success, along with guests Television Hill and Stephen Strohmeier. While you’re there, don’t forget to pick up a limited-edition vinyl of their new record.

 DO

December 16: Holiday Heap

Space 2640, 2640 St. Paul St. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 

Choosing the right gift for someone can be a difficult task, but with everything being mass-produced these days, the answer is kind of obvious. There’s nothing better than giving or getting a one-of-a-kind gift, especially one that’s made right here in Baltimore. On Saturday, check things off your holiday with a medley of handmade goods crafted by more than 50 local and regional artists. If you need suggestions, check out the repurposed china necklaces made by The Broken Plate, vinegar-infused wellness tonics by Red Root & Co., popsicle-shaped crayons by A Childhood Store, and waxed Army duck canvas bags by Stitch & Rivet. You can even test out your own DIY skills and make your own gift at the Artists and Craftsman Supply’s craft demo. 

It’s no secret that gift-giving can be stressful—but it shouldn’t have to be. If you’re in need of a little extra inspiration this year, the local maker community has got your back. Plenty of neighborhood craft fairs are happening to highlight unique gifts from area artists, designers, makers, and food startups. Whether you’re searching for handmade jewelry or vintage denim, ditch the department store lines or online shipping costs by heading to any one of these festive flea markets to start your holiday hunt. 

11/16: Mingle at the Mill
Snack on complimentary treats from Woodberry Kitchen at this Clipper Mill gathering, where all of the community’s artisans will open their studios for sales and demos. Featured small businesses will include Shine Creative, La Contessa, Paul Daniel Sculpture, and Corradetti Glassblowing Studio. Clipper Mill Apartments, 2002 Clipper Park Road, 5-9 p.m. 410-366-1904

11/18: Baltimore Makers Craft Show
Monument City Brewing Company is hosting its first-ever craft show just in time for the holidays. Sip craft beers, snack on barbecue bites from The Smoking Swine, and peruse everything from local Huckle’s Hot Sauce to McAllen’s Chocolate Almond Toffee. Other featured products will include natural skincare from Priya Means Love, ceramics from Wild Yam Pottery, and jewelry from Grace A Mano. Monument City Brewing Company, 1 N. Haven St., 12-5 p.m., 443-529-8131

11/24: Bazaart Holiday Art Market

This annual Small Business Saturday soiree returns with creations by more than 40 regional artists and craftspeople. Be on the lookout for paintings, sculpture, metalwork, textiles, mixed media, apparel, and more. American Visionary Art Museum, 800 Key Highway, 12-6 p.m., 410-244-1900

11/24: Shop Black Pop-Up Shop 

Instead of hitting the mall on Black Friday, support the city’s makers of color at this new market that will feature handmade wares and local food. Open Works, 1400 Greenmount Ave., 9 a.m.-4 p.m. 410-862-0424

11/25 and 12/9: Holiday Open Studio Event

Before heading to see the lights on 34th Street, swing by this Hampden event to check out unique work by 10 neighborhood artists. The Mill Centre, 3000 Chestnut Ave., 12-5 p.m., 410-206-8400

12/1-12/29: Woodberry Kitchen Holiday Market
Weekdays throughout December, Woodberry Kitchen will host a holiday gift shop selling an array of its house-made products. Sip hot cider and enjoy complimentary cookies while browsing canned tomatoes, jams, and jellies, baking mixes, and sweets like caramels and brittle. 2010 Clipper Park Road, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., 410-464-8000

12/2: Makers Market
Shop handmade gifts by local artisans with shopping specials and DIY events including terrarium building, floral arranging, and custom aromatherapy. Green Spring Station, 10751 Falls Road, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., 410-825-0400

12/2: Makers Alley 2017

Now in its fifth year, this festive fete brings together local makers of all kinds. Stock up on treats like Woot Granola and Pure Chocolate by Jinji while also taking a look at prints by Matt Muirhead and handmade china by Ideal Vessel Co. And, of course, check out the special holiday arrangements by hosts Local Color Flowers. Local Color Flowers, 3100 Brentwood Ave., 9 a.m.-12 p.m., 410-262-1494

12/3: Merry Mart

Browse a selection of handmade goods, including clothing, ceramics, and kids’ toys. Creative Alliance, 3134 Eastern Ave., 10 a.m.-5 p.m., 410-276-1651

12/3: Baltimore Farmers’ Market & Bazaar First Sundays: Holiday Art Expo
Swing by the Baltimore Farmers’ Market & Bazaar beneath the JFX to grab some breakfast while perusing local wares like wine racks, soaps, candles, clothing, and accessories. There will also be an abundance of trees, wreaths, greenery, and seasonal food to use for holiday cooking and entertaining. Underneath the Jones Falls Expressway between Holliday and Saratoga Streets, 7 a.m.- 12 p.m.

12/7-12/10: MICA Holiday Art Market 
Admire one-of-a-kind artwork by MICA’s emerging artists. MICA Brown Center, 1300 Mt. Royal Ave., Times vary, 410-224-2420

12/8: Women’s Unity Artisan Market 

Fierce females step into the spotlight for this get-together, which will feature goods made by women-owned local businesses. Grab a drink from Le Monade, flip through Annie Howe papercuts, try on some Rachel Mulherin jewelry, and more. Mary Gardella Studio, 3500 Parkdale Ave., 5-9 p.m.

12/8: Map Under $500

Mingle with artists and aficionados amongst original works available for $500 or less. Maryland Art Place. 7 p.m. $25-30, 410-962-8565

12/8-12/9: Holiday Bazaar and Tea at The Cloisters
This annual gift sale at the historic Cloisters Castle in Lutherville features all local makers. After picking the perfect presents, settle in for tea and pastries in the Mediaeval venue. Cloisters Castle, 10440 Falls Road, Lutherville, Times vary, 410-821-7448

12/8-12/10: Greens Sale 
Shop wreaths and garlands galore at this idyllic setting in Monkton. Ladew Topiary Gardens. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Free-$13.

12/9: Studio Artists Holiday Sale
School 33 Art Center’s residents and visiting artists will display a selection of painting, sculpture, works on paper, photography, and more. School 33 Art Center, 1427 Light St., 10 a.m.-7 p.m., 443-263-4350

12/9: For the Greater Goods Market

The special holiday iteration of this monthly market will have all of the essentials, with more than 55 local crafters showcasing everything from knits and candles to ceramics and skin care. R. House, 301 W. 29th St., 11 a.m.-4 p.m., 443-347-3570

12/9: Holistic Holiday Pop-Up Market

Browse sustainable products from local vendors at this second annual event, which doubles as a fundraiser for The Black Male Yoga Initiative. Mount Vernon Marketplace vendors will be featuring holistic specials for the occasion, including $6 kombucha from Taps Fill Station, $1-off green juice from Fresh Mondays, and free tea samples from Juniper Culinary Apothecary. Mount Vernon Marketplace, 520 Park Ave., 11 a.m.-3 p.m., 443-796-7393

12/10: Mega Flea Market 

Don’t miss the vintage finds at this massive bazaar, which will display everything from old-school toys and games to classic records and sheet music. Other collectibles will include books, stuffed animals, and sports memorabilia.  Maryland State Fairgrounds, 2200 York Road, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., 410-252-0200

12/16: Holiday Heap

Rub elbows with more than 50 independent crafters selling a medley of local gifts including winter accessories, home furnishings, and fun kids toys.  Space 2640, 2640 Saint Paul St., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

12/17: Baltimore Vintage Flea Holiday Sip & Shop

Old school knickknacks abound at this local flea market, which is hosting its inaugural event at R. House next month. Shop trendy denim, artsy accessories, classic records, and much more. Plus, be sure to take advantage of the pristine gift-wrapping by Crease & Bow. R. House, 301 W. 29th St., 11 a.m.-4 p.m., 443-347-3570

12/17: Supersized Holiday Makers Market

Find the perfect gifts while sipping spiked beverages at this holiday festival. Aside from the shopping, there will also be live DJ entertainment and performances by The Downtown Cultural Art Center’s resident dancers and theatrical troupe. The Downtown Cultural Arts Center, 401 N. Howard St., 12-6 p.m., 410-837-2787