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Must-See Holiday Shows

There is something about the holiday season that just makes me happy. The giving, the time with family and the holiday traditions are reason enough for this to be my favorite time of year. This year, immerse yourself in the excitement of the holidays by attending any number of shows and events to put you in the festive spirit. The following is a brief sampling of local holiday events. Perhaps some eggnog or cider is in order?

11/28 Arts & Culture - Holiday - Sac Ballet
(credit: sacballet.org)

The Nutcracker
Sacramento Ballet
1631 K Street
Sacramento, CA 95814
(916) 552-5800
Website

Watching a performance of The Nutcracker is as vital to the Christmas season in our family as watching "It's a Wonderful Life" on Thanksgiving evening. There are just some things that cannot be missed. Whether it will be your first time seeing The Nutcracker or simply the first time this year, there is something magical about Clara, dancing mice, the Sugarplum Fairy, and the Nutcracker. With day and evening shows and ticket prices starting at $15, nearly everyone can enjoy this holiday show.

11/28 Arts & Culture - Holiday - BenArts
(credit: benarts.org)

A Christmas Carol
Benvenuti Performing Arts Center
4600 Blackrock Drive
Sacramento, CA 95835
(916) 491-1028
Prices: General $12, Seniors and Students $10
Website

Presented by the Natomas Charter Performing and Fine Arts Academy, A Christmas Carol takes a look at the meaning of Christmas through the story of Ben as he meets the ghosts of Christmas Past, Christmas Present and Christmas future. Families will enjoy this version of the Charles Dickens classic adapted for stage by Karen Pollard. Shows will run from December 1 through December 10.

Hands on History: A Simple Emigrant Christmas
Sutter's Fort State Historic Park
2701 L Street
Sacramento, CA 95816
(916) 445-4422
Prices: Adults- $5, Youth (6-17) $3, Children under 6 are free
Hours: Friday, December 2 and Saturday, December 10 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Website

Take a trip back in time to experience what the holiday season was like for many of the emigrants coming through the gates at Sutter's Fort. Each culture had their own traditions and you can take part by making a corn cob doll, decorating the Christmas tree, dipping candles and making ornaments. Both educational and entertaining, Hands on History: A Simple Emigrant Christmas is appropriate for the entire family.

11/28 Arts & Culture - Holiday - Capitol
(credit: capitolmuseum.ca.gov)

Holiday Music Program
California State Capitol Museum
Capital Building
10th and 11th Streets
Sacramento, CA 95814
(916) 324-0333
Price: Free
Hours: Daily, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. (Times may vary)

Held in the Rotunda each day, live holiday musical performances will carry through the halls of the California State Capitol Museum. In addition to the exhibits and collections, the museum will be decorated with vintage holiday decorations to complete the festive feel.

Michelle Ventress lives in Sacramento with her husband and two dogs. When she's not writing or traveling she enjoys spending time working in her garden and volunteering.

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