Thursday, Dec. 19
Fiber Arts Circle from 4 to 5 p.m. at the Cambridge Public Library Central Square Branch, 45 Pearl St. Free. Bring your own project and drop in to crochet, sew, embroider, knit, cross stitch, spin, mend and more with other crafters. Information is here.
Small Mart Vintage & Vinyl Holiday Mart from 4 to 9 p.m. at Somerville Theatre’s Crystal Ballroom, 55 Davis Square. Free. More than 30 local vendors with vintage treasures, killer art, a full bar and more. Plus this time, the crew from Space Age Exotic Lounge Party does all vinyl sets featuring exotica, space age pop and midcentury lounge music. Information is here.
Illuminations Somerville any day, anytime after dark in a range of neighborhoods found by using Somerville’s official online Illuminations Map (and continuing throughout the holiday season). Free. Whether to mark the holiday or to just have something to do on a very quiet night, this self-directed tour memorably showcases the creativity of residents and businesses who transform their spaces and yards with lights and all types of embellishment. Information is here.
Santa’s Jazz Quartet from 5 to 7 p.m. at CanalSide Food + Drink, 100 CambridgeSide Place, East Cambridge. No cover charge. Graze or dine at any of CanalSide’s 13 eateries or the C-Side Bar while local artists perform holiday music. Information is here.
How to Play Dungeons and Dragons: A Beginner’s Workshop from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at The Foundry, 101 Rogers St., East Cambridge. $30. Learn the basics of D&D, create a character and explore anything and everything in between. Information is here.
Reclaiming Folk: A Celebration of People of Color in Folk Music from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in the lecture hall of the Cambridge Main Library, 449 Broadway, Mid-Cambridge. Free, but register. Massachusetts singer-songwriters Naomi Westwater, Chris Walton, and Kemp Harris give a 60-minute performance followed by a 30-minute talk back and Q&A. Information is here.
Nini Iris at 7 p.m. at The Rockwell, 255 Elm St., Davis Square, Somerville. $15 to $20. Born and raised in Tbilisi, Georgia, Iris’ unique writing and singing style delivers an “old world” charm combined with “dark textured overtones and an aggressive pop edge” – which may be why she did so well on NBC’s “The Voice.” Paloma Dineli Chesky opens. Information is here.
The Midwinter Revels: A Celtic and Cabo Verdean Celebration of the Solstice at 7 p.m. at Sanders Theatre, 45 Quincy St., near Harvard Square (and continuing through Dec. 28). $20 to $105. During the Revels’ 54th production, this time set in a Galway Bay fishing village’s pub, a retelling of the story “The Selkie Girl and the Seal Woman” transforms the pub into a fantastical portal between two worlds where Irish songs, jigs and reels share the stage with dance, drumming and traditional songs from Cabo Verde. Information is here.
Gender Free Scottish Country Dance from 7 to 9 p.m. at the New England Science Fiction Association clubhouse at 504 Medford St., Magoun Square, Somerville. $5 to $20. Learn and practice in gender-neutral language. A warm-up and lesson in the first hour is followed by an hour of social dancing. Kat Dutton emcees and teaches. Information is here.
The Somerville Chanukah Party from 7 to 10 p.m. at Arts at the Armory, 191 Highland Ave., Somerville. $10 to $25. A complete live concert performance of the Chanukah album “The Moishe Oysher Chanukah Party” with a klezmer orchestra “drawn from the top klezmer bands in the world and an all-star cast of vocalists.” Plus classic Chanukah songs, Ladino Hanuká songs, Yiddish dancing with Ezekiel’s Wheels Klezmer Band, a performance by the Rachel Linsky dancers and the ultimate DJ set with Chaia and Kleztronica. Presented by the Boston Festival of New Jewish Music. Information is here.
“Diary of a Tap Dancer” at 7:30 p.m. at Loeb Drama Center, 64 Brattle St., Harvard Square, Cambridge (and continuing through Jan. 4). $35 to $114. Trailblazing tap dancer and choreographer Ayodele Casel and director Torya Beard premiere a play inspired by Casel’s roots in the Bronx and Puerto Rico. Information is here.
Popcorn Comedy with Alex Giampapa from 7:30 to 9 p.m. at Somerville Theatre, 55 Davis Square. $20. A comedian known for his scorching set of well-crafted jokes, hot takes on current events and biting social commentary headlines a night of freshly popped stand-up in the historic theater’s intimate microcinema. Information is here.
Narrative Open Mic from 7:30 to 9 p.m. at Narrative, 387 Highland Ave., Davis Square, Somerville. $5 (ticket price redeemable for store credit during event). An evening celebrating art and expression; performing is not required to attend. Information is here.
F*ck That! Erin McKeown’s Anti-Holiday Spectacular at 8 p.m. at Club Passim, 47 Palmer St., Harvard Square, Cambridge. $28 to $30. Billed as “the world’s first anticapitalist, proqueer, suspicious of Christmas-as-patriotism, sex-positive, not safe for work, multiethnic, radical leftist antiholiday show.” For those who saw John and Mick’s “An Irish Christmas” at The Burren last night, listener discretion is advised. Information is here.
“The Slutcracker” at 8 p.m. at The Somerville Theatre, 55 Davis Square (and continuing through Jan. 5). $35 and 18-plus. Our area’s naughty holiday stage tradition is a burlesque version of “The Nutcracker” showcasing the talents of people from nearly every walk of life, body type and kink. Information is here.
Comedian Jan Davidson at 8 p.m. at The Comedy Studio in the basement at 5 John F. Kennedy St., Harvard Square, Cambridge. $8 to $15. The former Bostonian who’s now based in Los Angeles returns to her old stomping grounds (she misses snow and smart people?). Information is here.
Third Thursdays jazz with Dave Bryant and Friends at 8 p.m. at Harvard-Epworth United Methodist Church, 1555 Massachusetts Ave., near Harvard Square, Cambridge. $10. This month, a debut performance together of keyboardist and composer Bryant, trumpeter Russ Johnson, alto saxophonist Eric Person, bassist Hill Greene and drummer James Kamal Jones, including new pieces created for an upcoming recording by the quintet. Information is here.
Alec Flynn from 8 to 9:30 p.m. at Goofs Comedy Club, 432 McGrath Highway, Prospect Hill, Somerville (also Dec. 20 and 21). $10 to $15 and 21-plus. Flynn’s one of many who’ve flown to Boston for the big annual convention known as “Comedians Going Home for the Holidays.” Information is here.
The Gold Ounce Trio from 10 p.m. to midnight at Lilypad, 1353 Cambridge St., Inman Square, Cambridge. $10. An instrumental funk-jazz group composed of drummer Kev Klysko, guitarist Phil Friedrich and bassist Ely Delman who enjoy reimagining, expanding and improvising over original tunes and standards. Information is here.
Friday, Dec. 20
Harvard Square Holiday Fairs from noon to 7 p.m. at 1426 Massachusetts Ave., Harvard Square, Cambridge (and continuing Dec. 21 and 22). Free. This juried fair is one of the oldest and most popular in the area, with a mix of craftspeople from the region and world-traveling importers. Outside of the fair from 1 to 3 p.m. (on Dec. 21 only) enjoy the Santa Claus Jazz Band, hot chocolate and cookies. Information is here.
Solstice Celebration: A Farewell to Fall from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m., meeting at the ranger station (under the clock tower) at 250 Fresh Pond Parkway, in West Cambridge at Fresh Pond. Free and all ages. This eighth annual walk with ranger Tim Puopolo on a guided loop around Fresh Pond (2.25 to 2.5 miles) explores the solstice traditions of nature and culture. Rain or shine (dress for the weather). Information is here.
Illuminations Somerville (continued) any day, anytime after dark in a range of neighborhoods found by using Somerville’s official online Illuminations Map (and continuing throughout the holiday season). Free. Information is here.
Holiday mending workshop from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at The Foundry, 101 Rogers St., East Cambridge. Free to $30 sliding scale. Bring an article of clothing (nothing valuable) with holes or tears and learn to mend them by hand. All other materials are provided. Beginners are especially encouraged to attend. Instructor: Emily Wang. Information is here.
Solstice: “Reflections on Winter Light” experience from 5:30 to 9 p.m. during timed entries every half-hour at Mount Auburn Cemetery, 580 Mount Auburn St., West Cambridge (and Saturday). $5 to $35. Boston’s Masary Studios’ installation at the cemetery features an outdoor journey through large-scale light and sound artworks (including two that are new); a lantern walk; and an indoor experience with live music and candle lighting. It’s selling out quickly. Information is here.
Comedian Pedro Gonzalez at 7 p.m. at The Rockwell, 255 Elm St., Davis Square, Somerville. $20 to $25. You’ll hear jokes about what it’s like to be “a zero generation American” (i.e., an immigrant) from this Colombian American New Yorker, who was a finalist on “StandUp NBC” and “New York’s Funniest Stand-Up” competition. Information is here.
The Midwinter Revels: A Celtic and Cabo Verdean Celebration of the Solstice (continued) at 7 p.m. at Sanders Theatre, 45 Quincy St., near Harvard Square. $20 to $105. Information is here.
Hungover for the Holidaze! from 7 to 8 p.m. at Lilypad, 1353 Cambridge St., Inman Square, Cambridge. $10 to $15. Deck the halls with Whyte Lipstick and Puke Pisstols (two new bands with familiar faces) after the still-around-after-10-years band Johnnie and the Foodmasters “take the ’50s-’60s golden oldies and toss them in a blender and out spurts some crazy concoction you’ve never seen before.” Information is here.
Yoko Miwa Trio performs from 7 to 8:15 and 8:45 to 10 p.m. at The Mad Monkfish, 524 Massachusetts Ave., Central Square, Cambridge. Free, but there’s a $25 food-and-drink minimum. The Japan-born jazz pianist performs with Brad Barrett (acoustic bass) and Scott Goulding (drums). Information is here.
Night Games: An Indoor Night Market (R&B Edition) from 7 p.m. to midnight at The Garage, 36 John F. Kennedy St., Harvard Square, Cambridge. Free entry and all ages. This occasional event by Hello Open Market includes the DX Arcade; vendor goods from Groovy Thrifty and others; refreshments from Topo Chico and Tasty Burger; and live R&B sounds curated by Trigga Tre, Mez.Wav and DJ King Collins. Information is here.
“Diary of a Tap Dancer” (continued) at 7:30 p.m. at Loeb Drama Center, 64 Brattle St., Harvard Square, Cambridge. $55 to $150. Information is here.
“The Slutcracker” (continued) at 8 p.m. at The Somerville Theatre, 55 Davis Square. $35 and 18-plus. Information is here.
Blue Heron vocal ensemble concert at 8 p.m. at First Church in Cambridge, 11 Garden St., Harvard Square (and continuing Saturday). $10 (low-income tickets) to $42 (general) and $90 (reserved). The ensemble brings back “Christmas in 15th Century France & Burgundy,” one of its most beloved programs, and performs in a chancel lit by candles. Music by Guillaume Du Fay, Nicolas Grenon, Johannes Ciconia, Johannes Regis, Jacob Obrecht, Antoine Brumel, Josquin Desprez, Adrian Willaert and others. Information is here.
Noël: Live in the “Ville” Kompa Christmas Celebration at 8 p.m. at Arts at the Armory, 191 Highland Ave., Somerville. $50 and 21-plus. Dance to festive kompa music featuring live performances by Gabel, Alan Cave and GiG. Information is here.
Upstairs at Bow Market Comedy Showcase from 8 to 9:30 p.m. at Upstairs at Bow, 1 Bow Market Way, Union Square, Somerville. $20. This time, Howling Wolf Productions’ comedy show features Alex Temple, Ethan Cannon, Alexis Cristaldi, John Farrell, Spencer Cannistraro and Matt Vida. Information is here.
Alec Flynn (continued) at 8 and 10 p.m. at Goofs Comedy Club, 432 McGrath Highway, Prospect Hill, Somerville. $10 to $15 and 21-plus. Information is here.
Holiday DJ Jam at Boston Swing Central from 8 to 11:45 p.m. at Q Ballroom, 26 New St., Fresh Pond, Cambridge. $8 to $13. A weekly social partner dance that begins with a lesson for beginners in the first hour. No partner required. Information is here.
Holiday “Thank You” Tango Bar from 8 p.m. to midnight at Dance Union, 16 Bow St., Somerville. $10. Half-price admission to The Tango Society of Boston’s holiday dance, and a raffle for tickets to the New Year’s Eve gala. DJ: Tatiana. Refreshments served. Information is here.
Hole Show presents “Wolves and Wall Street” at 9 p.m. at Crystal Ballroom, 55 Davis Square, Somerville. $25 and 21-plus. Don your freakiest business-class garb (easy for the many who’ve cosplayed as business professionals …) or fit-for-a-hunt-with-the-pack attire for this queer art and dance party with vendors that features nine drag performers – kings, queens and “things” from New England and further afield – hosted by Sherman, plus music by DJs L’Duke and Mx Blaire. Information is here.
Fantasy Factory Fetish Night: Santa’s Little Helper from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. at ManRay, 40 Prospect St., Central Square, Cambridge. $12 to $15. A group performance and go-go from Belle Gunz, Butch Sassidy, Heather Rose, Jane Doe, Pinky the Minkx and Witj E. Craft, plus a dominatrix-led dungeon. DJs: DJ Static and DJ Chris Ewen. Fetish (or all black) attire required. Presented by Third House Events. Information is here.
Jam session with saxophonist Andy Voelker from 10 p.m. to midnight at The Mad Monkfish, 524 Massachusetts Ave., Central Square, Cambridge. Free. The improviser and composer brings along members from a rotating rhythm section of local greats. Information is here.
Saturday, Dec. 21
Solstice Tai Chi & Reflections from 10 a.m. to noon in the community room of the Cambridge Main Library, 449 Broadway, Mid-Cambridge. Free, but register. Explore qigong warmups and the elements of tai chi with Ellen DeGenova; this time the session is infused with winter solstice reflections on the value of darkness, dormancy and strategic retreat. No experience necessary; a seated option is available. Information is here.
Small Mart from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Somerville Theatre’s Crystal Ballroom, 55 Davis Square. Free entry. More than 40 vintage vendors, local artisans and makers sell, plus specialty cocktails and mocktails and music. Information is here.
Opera on Tap Boston presents: Drunk Opera History Messiah Edition at 11:30 a.m. at The Burren, 247 Elm St., Davis Square, Somerville. $25 to $30. The annual holiday celebration at which you drink up and join in with four vocalists to “dish the dirt on Handel and his famous oratorio.” Includes a rousing barroom Hallelujah chorus. Information is here.
Beaded Jewelry Workshop (“Bead Therapy”) from 1 to 3 p.m. at The Foundry, 101 Rogers St., East Cambridge. $20 to $30. Make a beaded jewelry gift at this expressive arts workshop run by Zangar Freeman of ZMakesBeads and learn the difference between semiprecious and precious stones (including semiprecious stones’ new-agey associations). Information is here.
Greater Boston Community Souk (market) from 1 to 5 p.m. at The Foundry, 101 Rogers St., East Cambridge. Free entry. Small businesses sell foods, apparel, beauty products, accessories, services and more. Social and creative activities and freebies. Information is here.
Festive Fanfare with musicians of the Boston Festival Orchestra from 2 to 3 p.m. at the Cambridge Main Library, 449 Broadway, Mid-Cambridge. Free. Celebrate the season with brass musicians performing holiday classics, heartwarming melodies and jubilant fanfares. Information is here.
Fluid Collage Experience from 2 to 4 p.m. at Connexion, 149 Broadway, Somerville, Cambridge. $20. Lavender Education’s workshop explores the theme of fluidity – in identity, self-expression or creativity – through collage and centers trans and nonbinary experiences, but all are welcome. A percentage of proceeds benefit the Massachusetts Trans Political Coalition. Information is here.
“Diary of a Tap Dancer” (continued) at 2 and 7:30 p.m. at Loeb Drama Center, 64 Brattle St., Harvard Square, Cambridge. $35 to $150. Information is here.
Adventure Improv Holiday Edition (family friendly) from 3 to 4 p.m. at The Rockwell, 255 Elm St., Davis Square, Somerville. Free to $20 and all ages. An interactive musical comedy experience presented by Nova Comedy Collective. Information is here.
The Midwinter Revels: A Celtic and Cabo Verdean Celebration of the Solstice (continued) at 3 and 7 p.m. at Sanders Theatre, 45 Quincy St., near Harvard Square. $20 to $105. Information is here.
Blue Heron vocal ensemble concert (continued) at 3 and 8 p.m. at First Church in Cambridge, 11 Garden St., Harvard Square. $10 (low-income tickets) to $42 (general) and $90 (reserved). Information is here.
Illuminations Somerville (continued) any day, anytime after dark in a range of neighborhoods found by using Somerville’s official online Illuminations Map (and continuing throughout the holiday season). Free. Information is here.
Solstice: “Reflections on Winter Light” experience (continued) from 5 to 9:30 p.m. during timed entries every half-hour at Mount Auburn Cemetery, 580 Mount Auburn St., West Cambridge. $5 to $35. Information is here.
Ukrainian Christmas Concert from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Harvard-Epworth United Methodist Church, 1555 Massachusetts Ave., near Harvard Square, Cambridge. $35. Right after their San Francisco and New York City concerts, Ukrainian folk singer, songwriter and Berklee grad Valeriia Vovk and Ukrainian jazz pianist Fima Chupakhin come to Cambridge to perform “Carol of the Bells,” “Shchedryk,” “Silent Night” and more to benefit the City of Goodness, Ukraine’s largest shelter for children and women. Information is here.
“If These Walls Could Talk”: A look into the everyday lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities at 7 p.m. at the Russell Youth and Community Center, 680 Huron Ave., West Cambridge (also Sunday). $15. David Tynes writes and directs an original play each year for The Cambridge Program for Individuals with Special Needs, and it’s performed by a seasoned, professional troupe (participants from the program) that have disabilities. Information is here.
Comedian Sydney Castillo at 7 p.m. at The Rockwell, 255 Elm St., Davis Square, Somerville. $20 to $25 and 21-plus. The television actor, writer and producer headlines. Information is here.
A Byzantine Christmas at 7:30 p.m. at Dormition of the Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church, 29 Central St., Somerville. $30 suggested donation. Returning for its 13th year, Psaltikon’s annual concert of Byzantine chant and Christmas kalanda (carols) from Greece and the islands. All proceeds benefit Philoxenia House. Information is here.
Anngelle Wood’s 12th Annual Spectacular Gift Drive for the DCF Wonderfund from 7:30 to 11 p.m. at The Lizard Lounge, 1667 Massachusetts Ave., in the Baldwin neighborhood between Harvard and Porter squares, Cambridge. $15. The host of the “Boston Emissions” radio show and producer of the annual Rock & Roll Rumble music festival brings OldJack, Airport and Adi Sun to perform to help raise funds and collect unwrapped gifts for foster families in the Boston area. Information is here.
“The Slutcracker” (continued) at 8 p.m. at The Somerville Theatre, 55 Davis Square. $35 and 18-plus. Information is here.
The Popp Boutique Comedy Show from 8 to 9:30 p.m. at Popp Boutique, 301 Massachusetts Ave., The Port, Cambridge. $15. Laugh among “beautiful artwork, handcrafted scented goods, crystals, body oils and more” at this Black-owned business that once a month becomes a comedy venue. Tonight’s local lineup: Amma Marfo, Rachel Dunbar, Marc Harvard, Shelby LeCuyer, Anthony Eugenio, Annaliese Heindel and Matt Fanikos. Hosted by Chef Phil. Information is here.
Alec Flynn (continued) at 8 and 10 p.m. at Goofs Comedy Club, 432 McGrath Highway, Prospect Hill, Somerville. $10 to $15 and 21-plus. Information is here.
Cuban Saturday Night with El Bonche from 8:30 to 11 p.m. at Rumba y Timbal Studio, 7 Temple St., Central Square, Cambridge. $15 to $20. A high-energy holiday dance party with vibrant music and a festive Cuban atmosphere. Information is here.
Sunday, Dec. 22
Nomads Art Collective Holiday Pop-Up Exhibition final day from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Gallery 263, 263 Pearl St., Cambridgeport. Free. Last chance to view this artists collaboration opportunity sponsored by the Korean Cultural Society of Boston featuring works by ceramists, crafters, sculptors, painters, photographers, jewelry makers and fiber artists. Information is here.
Whitney Houston Christmas drag brunch from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Summer Shack, 149 Alewife Brook Parkway, Alewife, Cambridge. $20. This year Whitney’s “one wish” for Christmas would take a miracle, but at least this annual holiday tribute brings joy. Cee Cee Russell stars as Whitney. Hosted by Kori King. Information is here.
Art and the Expanded Field: “Emotive Shapes through Space and Surface” workshop from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at The Foundry, 101 Rogers St., East Cambridge (and most Sundays through Jan. 26). $30 and 18-plus. This fourth of seven parts about interdisciplinary art practices is about how the posture, shape and spatial dynamics of bodies store memories and emotions. All levels welcome. Instructors: Madaline Riley and Dani Nordenberg. Information is here.
Inman holiday market from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at six locations from Datawheel (1299 Cambridge St.) to Inman Incubator (1385 Cambridge St.) in Inman Square, Cambridge. Free. More than 40 local vendors, artists and craftspeople sell artwork, jewelry, housewares, accessories and textiles, plus there’s Santa McGuirk’s Egg Nog Garden, raclette, roasted chestnuts, winter tales for the kids and handmade holiday bingo. Mask wearing is requested. Information is here.
Drum and song circle from noon to 1 p.m. at The Foundry, 101 Rogers St., East Cambridge (and most Sundays through Feb. 9). $10 to $35. All levels are welcome at this circle led by a music therapist and music teacher. No experience required; instruments provided, or bring your own. Information is here.
The Midwinter Revels: A Celtic and Cabo Verdean Celebration of the Solstice (continued) at 1 and 5:30 p.m. at Sanders Theatre, 45 Quincy St., near Harvard Square. $20 to $105. Information is here.
“Diary of a Tap Dancer” (continued) at 2 p.m. at Loeb Drama Center, 64 Brattle St., Harvard Square, Cambridge. $35 to $150. Information is here.
Miss Christine and Tiffy perform at 3 p.m. at Aeronaut Brewing, 14 Tyler St., near Union Square, Somerville. Free. The bassist and singer-songwriter Christine Moad blends indie rock with blues and soul influences and a punk attitude; multi-instrumentalist, singer-songwriter and producer Tiffany Sammy mixes fuzz pop and soft punk. Information is here.
The Camerata presents “A German Christmas: In Dulci Jubilo” at 3:30 p.m. at First Church in Cambridge, 11 Garden St., Harvard Square. $10 to $70. French-born vocalist, scholar and stage director Anne Azéma directs a program exploring the music of German Christmas festivity through chants and chorales, simple carols, grandiose polyphony and instrumental fantasias of the 15th to early 17th centuries. Information is here.
“The Slutcracker” (continued) at 4 p.m. at The Somerville Theatre, 55 Davis Square. $35 and 18-plus. Information is here.
“If These Walls Could Talk”: A look into the everyday lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities (continued) at 4:30 p.m. at the Russell Youth and Community Center, 680 Huron Ave., West Cambridge. $15. Information is here.
Illuminations Somerville (continued) any day, anytime after dark in a range of neighborhoods found by using Somerville’s official online Illuminations Map (and continuing throughout the holiday season). Free. Information is here.
Brazilian Theater of Boston presents “O Cordel Natalino do Compadi Jesuino” at 5 p.m. at Arts at the Armory, 191 Highland Ave., Somerville. Free. A Christmas show with professional actors performing in Portuguese; written and directed by Edel Holz. Information is here.
Holiday caroling in Harvard Square from 5 to 7 p.m. meeting at First Parish Cambridge Unitarian Universalist, 3 Church St./1446 Massachusetts Ave., Harvard Square, Cambridge. Free and all ages. Sing with roving carolers. Information is here.
GottaBal! holiday balboa dance party from 5 to 7:30 p.m. at the café at Arts at the Armory, 191 Highland Ave., Somerville. Free. The end-of-year party for this monthly DJ’d event featuring a dance that originated in Southern California in the 1930s and is danced to faster tempos than Lindy Hop. Come dressed in festive Balboa attire to celebrate. Masks are optional but encouraged. Information is here.
Tim Ray Trio from 7 to 8:15 and 8:45 to 10 p.m. at The Mad Monkfish, 524 Massachusetts Ave., Central Square, Cambridge. Free, but $25 food-and-drink minimum. The pianist and composer has performed on more than 80 recordings and in concert with pop music icons as well as with leading figures in the jazz world. Allan Chase (alto saxophone) and Greg Loughman (acoustic bass) accompany. Information is here.
Holiday Show (and Party) with Comedians Will Smalley and Andrew Mayer from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at The Comedy Studio in the basement at 5 John F. Kennedy St., Harvard Square, Cambridge. $16. The beloved Boston comics gather an all-star lineup of comedians to help you get into the holiday spirit. Dress in your ugliest Christmas sweater and, if you’d like, stay afterward for The Comedy Studio’s Christmas Party with drinks, food, more laughter, music and karaoke going until midnight. Information is here.
Seraphim Singers present “Light from Deepest Heaven” at 7:30 p.m. at the First Church in Cambridge, 11 Garden St., Harvard Square. $10 to $25. Listen to works by Daryl Bichel, Graham Gordon Ramsay, Jason Robison, John Rutter, Timothy Takach, Patricia Van Ness and Cambridge composer James Woodman (“The Midwife’s Tale”). Jennifer Lester conducts. Winter wear donations for those facing housing insecurity will be collected. Information is here.
The Slackers perform at 7:45 p.m. at The Sinclair, 52 Church St., Harvard Square, Cambridge. $27. The BrooklynVegan music blog describes this 33-year-old band as “a clean mix of ska, reggae and soul that gets dirtied up by Vic Ruggiero’s tough New York accent.” Also playing: The Bandulus with Jesse Wagner and Lady Hatchet. Information is here.
Paradox Presents: Live Hip-Hop and R&B Winter Solstice Showcase from 9 p.m. to midnight at The Jungle, 6 Sanborn Court, Union Square, Somerville. Free and 21-plus. Listen to locals Ley, Sk-o, Oshmagosh, Ray K, Militia Rashad, Triple Beam Team, Shinnozuke, Three2Three, Pens & Pencils, MC Lost Cat and Paradox. Information is here.
Monday, Dec. 23
The Midwinter Revels: A Celtic and Cabo Verdean Celebration of the Solstice (continued) at 3 p.m. at Sanders Theatre, 45 Quincy St., near Harvard Square. $20 to $105. Information is here.
“Diary of a Tap Dancer” (continued) at 2 p.m. at Loeb Drama Center, 64 Brattle St., Harvard Square, Cambridge. $35 to $150. Information is here.
Illuminations Somerville (continued) any day, anytime after dark in a range of neighborhoods found by using Somerville’s official online Illuminations Map (and continuing throughout the holiday season). Free. Information is here.
Zumba with Darren from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at The Foundry, 101 Rogers St., East Cambridge (and every Monday). $12 to $15. A beginner-friendly aerobic fitness class featuring movements inspired by various styles of Latin American dance. Information is here.
Jerry Bergonzi Quartet from 8:30 to 10 p.m. at Lilypad, 1353 Cambridge St., Inman Square, Cambridge (and continuing most Mondays). $10 to $15. Bergonzi brings his tenor sax mastery to this seated show with bandmates Phil Grenadier on trumpet and Luther Gray on drums. Information is here.
“To Warm the Winter’s Night” with Áine Minogue at 7 p.m. at Club Passim, 47 Palmer St., Harvard Square, Cambridge. $28 to $30. The gifted Irish harpist and singer performs classic holiday music inspired by her childhood in Borrisokane, County Tipperary, combining song, poetry and dance music. Information is here.
Capoeira class from 7 to 8 p.m. at Dance Union, 16 Bow St., Union Square, Somerville (and every Monday). First class free, $15 thereafter. Learn a workout based on the dynamic Afro-Brazilian art form that combines dance, music and martial arts. Information is here.
Tuesday, Dec. 24
Illuminations Somerville (continued) any day, anytime after dark in a range of neighborhoods found by using Somerville’s official online Illuminations Map (and continuing throughout the holiday season). Free. Information is here.
Miracle Cocktail Bar holiday pop-up final evening from 5 to 10 p.m. at Bambara in the Kimpton Marlowe Hotel, 25 Edwin H. Land Blvd., East Cambridge. Sip on a selection of original, holiday-themed libations in whimsical glassware beneath over-the-top decorations (glowing ornaments and lots and lots of garlands) while catchy Christmas tunes play, a marble fireplace crackles, lights twinkle and cheeks glow as red as the suit on that 6-foot Santa watching over the room (to make sure no one gets naughty). Information is here.
Bluesy Tuesy Christmas Eve Fusion Night from 7:30 to 11 p.m. at the New England Science Fiction Association clubhouse at 504 Medford St., Magoun Square, Somerville. $5 to $25. A festive version of the monthly fusion night for this weekly partner blues dance event, still with a lesson for beginners in the first hour. No partner required. Information is here.
The Chosen Show at 8 p.m. at The Comedy Studio in the basement at 5 John F. Kennedy St., Harvard Square, Cambridge. $35 to $45. Dan Crohn hosts the chosen few for a night of Christmas Eve comedy and Chinese food provided by The Hong Kong. The lineup includes Ellen Sugarman, Tooky Kavanagh, Mike Pincus, Jeff Medoff, Josh Goldstein and special guests. Information is here.
Maccabee Bar pop-up from 4 p.m. to midnight at Noir at the Charles Hotel, 1 Bennett St., Harvard Square, Cambridge (and every day through Dec. 31). À la carte pricing. Experience a different side of the holidays, whether you grew up celebrating Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanza or anything else. Enjoy special decor, Hanukkah-themed cocktails, latkes, chicken flatbread, smoked salmon plate and sufganiyots. Information is here.
Wednesday, Dec. 25
Christmas Day Breakfast Out from 7 to 10:30 a.m. at Bambara in the Kimpton Marlowe Hotel, 25 Edwin H. Land Blvd., East Cambridge. À la carte pricing. The restaurant at the Kimpton Marlowe Hotel serves its usual omelets, Benedicts and brioche French toast on a morning few other restaurants are open. Information is here.
Christmas Day All Meals Out from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. at Batifol, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Mamaleh’s, and from 3 to 10 p.m. at Five Horses Tavern. À la carte pricing. This year you can make foie gras, brisket bao or drunken wings your new Christmas tradition. In Kendall Square try the elegant special menu at the brasserie Batifol (followed by Chef’s Bûche de Noël) or the festive Jewish-Chinese fusion menu at Mamaleh’s. And yet, it might be the perfect day for the all-American classics at Five Horses in Somerville’s Davis Square. Information is here.
Bah-Humbug! game day at the New England Science Fiction Association from noon to 10 p.m. at the group’s clubhouse at 504 Medford St., Magoun Square, Somerville. Free, but you must RSVP by email. A variety of board, card and role-playing games for all tastes and abilities are available; games will be taught too, or participants can bring their own and teach others how to play. Masks optional. Information is here.
Holiday Special Vegan Buffet with seatings at 12:30, 2 and 4 p.m. at Ramen O’ Bowl, 1668 Massachusetts Ave., between Harvard and Porter squares, Cambridge. $23 plus tax and tip, with registration by 3 p.m. Dec. 24 required. Enjoy a 100 percent vegan buffet of spring rolls, sesame balls, steamed buns, salad, soups, sushi rolls, tofu mango curry, Thai basil fried rice, stir-fried vegetable ramen and pumpkin cream cheese cake at this Boston Vegetarian Society event open to everyone. Singles will be seated at friendly group tables. Information is here.
Maccabee Bar pop-up (continued) from 4 p.m. to 1 a.m. at Noir at the Charles Hotel, 1 Bennett St., Harvard Square, Cambridge. À la carte pricing. Information is here.
Illuminations Somerville (continued) any day, anytime after dark in a range of neighborhoods found by using Somerville’s official online Illuminations Map (and continuing throughout the holiday season). Free. Information is here.
Gill Aharon Trio performs from 8:15 to 10 p.m. at Lilypad, 1353 Cambridge St., Inman Square, Cambridge (and every Wednesday). $10. A mix of influences inspires composer and pianist Aharon, founder of the Lilypad performance and event space. The trio includes bassist Jef Charland, guitarist Andrew Stern and drummer Randy Wooten. Information is here.
“Go” (1999) film screening at 9 p.m. at The Brattle Theatre, 40 Brattle St., Harvard Square, Cambridge. $12.50 to $14.50. “The stories of a barrelful of archetypal ’90s characters intersect at Christmastime … all centered on a bag of fake ecstasy pills.” Not the holiday flick you were hoping for? There’s also screenings at 4 and 6:30 p.m. of “Little Women” from 1994, the one with Christian Bale (and co-stars). Information is here.
Thursday, Dec. 26
The Midwinter Revels: A Celtic and Cabo Verdean Celebration of the Solstice (continued) at 1 and 5:30 p.m. at Sanders Theatre, 45 Quincy St., near Harvard Square. $20 to $105. Information is here.
School Vacation Week Movie: “Ratatouille” from 2 to 4 p.m. at Somerville Public Library, 79 Highland Ave., Central Hill. Free. The Disney/Pixar film from 2007 about a rat in a kitchen – and it’s a good thing. Information is here.
Maccabee Bar pop-up (continued) from 4 p.m. to 1 a.m. at Noir at the Charles Hotel, 1 Bennett St., Harvard Square, Cambridge. À la carte pricing. Information is here.
Illuminations Somerville (continued) any day, anytime after dark in a range of neighborhoods found by using Somerville’s official online Illuminations Map (and continuing throughout the holiday season). Free. Information is here.
Candle-making and intention-setting workshop from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Dark Mode, second floor, Bow Market, 1 Bow Market Way, Union Square, Somerville. $50. Make (and leave with) your own 14-ounce coconut wax candle, customized with a choice of flowers, herbs and fragrance. Guidance and all materials provided. Information is here.
Dave Fox Trio performs at 7:30 p.m. at Aeronaut Brewing, 14 Tyler St., near Union Square, Somerville. Free. This modern jazz trio plays original compositions and arrangements inspired by John Coltrane, Joe Henderson, Chick Corea, Steve Swallow, Charles Mingus, Thelonious Monk and Wayne Shorter. Includes bassist John Lockwood and Boston-area musicians and composers such as guitarist Phil Sargent and saxophonists Nicholas Brust and Bill Jones. Information is here.
“Diary of a Tap Dancer” (continued) at 7:30 p.m. at Loeb Drama Center, 64 Brattle St., Harvard Square, Cambridge. $35 to $150. Information is here.
Thursday Goofs comedy show from 8 to 9:30 p.m. at Goofs Comedy Club, 432 McGrath Highway, Prospect Hill, Somerville. $10 to $15 and 21-plus. Favorite local headliners and comedians, plus a full bar (drinks start at $4) and a Wade BBQ menu. Information is here.
“Office Hours” comedy show from 8 to 9:30 p.m. at The Comedy Studio in the basement at 5 John F. Kennedy St., Harvard Square, Cambridge. $8 to $15. Jeremy Pearson – professor by day, comedian by night – hosts a show in which up-and-coming comedians cross highbrow concepts with lowbrow silliness. Information is here.
A stronger
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