Alexandria Calendar: Nov. 21, 2012

Tuesday, November 20, 2012

Nov. 27 and Dec. 4, 10 & 18

Community Singers Wanted. The West Potomac choirs invite alumni, parents, and community to rehearse and perform Part I (Christmas section) of Handel’s Messiah. We rehearse 6:30-8:30 p.m. through Nov. 19; 6:30-9 p.m. through Dec. 18 with orchestra. At West Potomac High School in the Springbank Auditorium. Visit information is at http://westpotomacchoirs.org.

Through Dec. 2

Free Art Exhibition. This juried photography exhibition — open to all artists nationally and internationally—explores the theme of upheaval in our personal lives and throughout the world. A reception on Nov. 8, from 6-8 p.m. occurs during 2nd Thursday Art Night and features a talk by juror Brie Castell at 7 p.m. Target Gallery (Studio 2), 105 North Union St. Call 703-838-4565, x4 or visit www.torpedofactory.org/target.

Through Dec. 3

Free Photography Exhibition. Andrew Zimmermann: Cold River. This solo exhibition of large-format black and white photographs captures the “character of blankness.” The opening reception takes place on Nov. 8 from 6:30-8 p.m., during 2nd Thursday Art Night. The Art League Gallery, 105 North Union St. Call 703-683-1780 or visit www.theartleague.org.

Through Jan. 24

Watercolors and Collagraph Prints: African Encounters: Coast to Coast. The Alexandria Black History Museum will open an exhibition of watercolors and collagraph prints entitled African Encounters: Coast to Coast. Artist Kathleen Stafford explores the landscape, architecture, and people of Africa, providing a kaleidoscope of variety and color for the eye. Free and open to the public. The Alexandria Black History Museum is located at 902 Wythe St. and is open from Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visit www.alexblackhistory.org.

Wednesday/Nov. 21

Santa Claus. 9:30 - 11 a.m. The Alexandria/Mount Vernon Antiques Club will feature Kevin Rawlings, who will be in costume as he portrays Santa Claus during the Civil War Years of the 1860s. Free. Public invited. At Hollin Hall Senior Center, 1500 Shenandoah Road. Call Ann Connell at 703-360-4979.

National Thanksgiving Turkey Welcoming Ceremony. 3 p.m. Immediately following President Obama’s “pardon” of the National Thanksgiving Turkey, George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate, Museum & Gardens will welcome the turkey with a ceremony featuring a trumpet fanfare and proclamation read by Washington’s farm manager, “James Anderson.” The turkey will arrive to the front of the Mansion in a horse-drawn carriage guided by staff dressed in 18th-century costumes for the ceremony. The turkey will be on display for visitors during “Christmas at Mount Vernon,” a daily program that takes place Nov. 23 through Jan. 6. At George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate, Museum & Gardens, 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway.

Friday/Nov. 23

Alexandria Black Friday Sale and Festivities. 6 a.m. and all day. Following in the tradition of Black Friday kicking off the holiday shopping season, local retailers will open early on Black Friday offering once-a-year deals to lure shoppers to Old Town Alexandria. Participating stores will open at 6 a.m. offering initial discounts of up to 30 percent off. At 8 a.m., the discounts drop to 20 percent off and 10 percent off starting at 10 a.m. To make the shopping experience even easier, the city has waived all parking fees in city-owned garages and parking meters for the day. Stay for the city’s annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at 7 p.m. Call 703-746-3301 or visit www.alexandriava.com.

Bike Ride. 10 a.m.- 1 p.m. The Alexandria Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee November informal community bike ride will be an escape from Black Friday. This winter ride will be take place at Mt Vernon trail. Meet outside Firehook bakery, 430 S Washington St. Bring a bicycle and water. RSVP recommended. Contact Jonathan Krall at jonathan@jonathankrall.net.

Friday/Nov. 23 through Nov. 24

THE SELDOM SCENE & DRY BRANCH FIRE SQUAD at the Birchmere. $35.00. Visit www.seldomscene.com, www.drybranchfiresquad.com or www.Birchmere.com.

Friday-Sunday/Nov. 23-25

St. Aidan's Christmas Tree & Wreath Sale. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Freshly-cut Fraser Fir Trees & wreaths from North Carolina. For parents with children in local public elementary schools, give back 10 percent to the PTA of any choice. Hot cider, cookies, and music will be offered. At St Aidan's Episcopal Church at 8531 Riverside Road. Call 703-360-4220 or visit www.staidansepiscopal.com.

Historic Candlelight Tours. 5-8 p.m. Join "Mrs. Washington" as she hosts an evening of candlelight tours, fireside caroling, and hot cider and ginger cookies. Tours include merry music, and characters from the Washingtons' world guiding visitors through the first and second floors of the home, adding ambiance and authenticity to a traditional Christmas evening at Mount Vernon. Tickets may be purchased at the Ford Orientation Center (9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily), or through MountVernon.org. Admission is $22 for adults and $15 for children under 12. Call 703-780-2000 or 703-799-8697 or visit www.MountVernon.org.

Nov. 23 through Dec. 9

Old Town Boutique District's Window Wonderland. Come out to Old Town Alexandria and view the festive Window Wonderland of holiday lights and decorations on display at our local boutiques. Shoppers are invited to vote for their favorite window décor via Facebook and Twitter. Throughout Old Town Alexandria. Visit www.oldtownboutiquedistrict.com.

Nov. 23 through Jan. 6

Christmas at Mount Vernon. Mount Vernon is decking the halls for Christmas at Mount Vernon, a special daytime program offered through January. Themed decorations (including 12 Christmas trees), historical chocolate-making demonstrations, and 18th-century dancing will be offered. Visitors will get a glimpse of how the Washingtons might have decorated and entertained during the holiday season. Tour the rarely-open third floor of the Mansion and learn how the Washingtons celebrated Christmas. During Christmas at Mount Vernon, visitors can meet Aladdin, the resident camel. Visit www.mountvernon.org.

Saturday/Nov. 24

Holiday Open House. At Contessa's Home and Garden, 1906 Mount Vernon Ave. Kick-off the Holiday season with new gifts, live tree and seasonal decorative items. Refreshments will be served. Receive 20 percent off entire purchase 4-6 p.m. Visit www.contessas.wordpress.com or call 703-548-1882.

Wee Ones Storytime. 10:30-11 a.m. Explore the exciting world around us with some of our favorite stories and songs. Ages 2 and under. Free. Hooray for Books is located at 1555 King Street. Call 703-548-4092 or visit www.hooray4books.com.

Photos with Santa Claus. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Join Alexandria Firefighters & Paramedics for photos with Santa Claus at Firehouse 201 at 317 Prince St. A $10 donation includes photograph with Santa in front of the historic 1863 “Champion” Steam Engine in one of Alexandria’s oldest operating firehouses’ as well as a credit for one medium resolution digital image or one 4x6 print. All images taken are available to view online and reprints are affordably priced starting at $2.99 for a 4x6. Proceeds benefit the Helping Hands Relief Fund and the Alexandria Fire Department Children’s Holiday Toy Drive. Visit http://local2141.smugmug.com.

Book Signing. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Author Robin Michelle Donovan, a resident of Stafford, will sign copies of her children's book, A Christmas Rescue at Barnes and Noble, 3651 Jefferson Davis Highway.

Nov. 24 through Dec. 23

Santa Claus is Coming to Old Town. Santa and Mrs. Claus are back in Old Town Alexandria to take pictures with children every Saturday and Sunday between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Presented by the Old Town Boutique District in partnership with the City of Alexandria and Bike and Roll Alexandria and with the support of area businesses. The cost for pictures is $15 for a 5 x 7 print. Hours: Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. except for Dec. 1 (Scottish Walk Parade day) when hours are 1-5 p.m.; Sundays, noon-5 p.m. At Bike and Roll Alexandria, One Wales Alley. Call 703-501-6289 or visit www.oldtownboutiquedistrict.com.

Sunday/Nov. 25

Duncan Sheik. 7:30 p.m. $29.50. Visit www.duncansheik.com/. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.

Birchmere Show. 7:30 p.m. Courrier to open for Duncan Sheik 'Sunset Sessions Tour.’ The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.

Coffee + Critique + Conversation. 10:30 a.m. to noon. Free. Photographers and art enthusiasts of all levels are invited to engage in friendly dialogue and share their portfolios, projects, ideas, and questions. Multiple Exposures Gallery (Studio 312), 105 North Union St. Call 703-683-2205 or visit www.multipleexposuresgallery.com.

Photos with Santa Claus. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Join Alexandria Firefighters & Paramedics for photos with Santa Claus at Firehouse 201 at 317 Prince St. A $10 donation includes photograph with Santa in front of the historic 1863 “Champion” Steam Engine in one of Alexandria’s oldest operating firehouses’ as well as a credit for one medium resolution digital image or one 4x6 print. All images taken are available to view online and reprints are affordably priced starting at $2.99 for a 4x6. Proceeds benefit the Helping Hands Relief Fund and the Alexandria Fire Department Children’s Holiday Toy Drive. Visit http://local2141.smugmug.com.

Through Nov. 25

"Fotographers at the Factory Invitational Exhibit.” Juried by LensWork founder and editor, Brooks Jensen. Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Thursdays 12-9 p.m. The opening reception is on Nov. 11 from 2 to 4 p.m. Free and open to the public. At Multiple Exposures Gallery located at 105 N. Union St. #312. Call 703 683-2205. Visit www.torpedofactory.org.

Photography exhibition: “Telling Images.” See photographic techniques and interpretations that tell a story without words. Call 703-960-3873, email jldtifft@cox.net or visit www.TheDelRayArtisans.org.

Monday/Nov. 26

James Fortune & Jessica Reedy 'Celebrate Christmas.' 7:30 p.m. $29.50. Visit jessicareedymusic.com/. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.

Tuesday/Nov. 27

Graham Parker & The Rumour Reunion. 7:30 p.m. At the Music Hall, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. $35. Visit http://www.grahamparker.net. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.

Thursday/Nov. 29

Torpedo Factory Art Center Holiday Open House. 6-9 p.m. Free. Join the Torpedo Factory Art Center’s artists for the annual Holiday Open House. Shop for one-of-a-kind gifts while enjoying sweets and savories from Bread & Chocolate. Torpedo Factory Art Center, 105 N. Union St. Call 703-838-4565 or visit www.torpedofactory.org.

Thursday & Friday/Nov. 29 & 30

WILL DOWNING. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $69.50. Visit www.willdowning.com. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.

Thursday-Saturday/Nov. 29-Dec. 1

The Nutcracker. West Potomac Academy and Alexandria Community Dance present their fourth annual joint performance of The Nutcracker, at West Potomac High School at 6500 Quander Road. Thursday, Nov. 29, at 5 p.m.; Friday, Nov. 30, at 6:30 p.m.; and Saturday, Dec. 1, at 2:30 and 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $10 for students and $12 for adults in advance, or $12 for students and $15 for adults at the door. Visit www.Alexandriadance.com.

Friday/Nov. 30

Free Concert. 8 p.m. Enjoy an evening of music for Clarinet at The Lyceum located at 201 S. Washington St. This free concert is offered as a public service. Call The United States Air Force Band's Concert Line at 202-767-5658 or visit www.usafband.af.mil.

Book Signing. 6:30 p.m. Hooray for Books is sponsoring a book signing at their store at 1555 King St. Author/archaeologist Jordan Jacobs will be signing copies of his book, "Samantha Sutton and the Labyrinth of Lies." Hooray for Books is located at 1555 King Street. Visit www.hooray4books.com or call 703-548-4092.

Through Nov. 30

Art Exhibition. The Gallery at Convergence presents “pitture e parole” (“Paintings and Words”), a solo exhibition from artist, Lynne Elizabeth Heiser. A portion of all sales benefit Convergence programs including Artist's Way, Convergence Shared Artists Studios, and the Lab All Ages. Opening reception on Oct. 6 from 7-9 p.m. Email Lynne@in2itCreative.com or call 703-915-0917 to RSVP. Call 703-998-6260 or visit www.convergenceccf.net.

Friday-Saturday/Nov. 30-Dec. 1

Annual Campagna Center Scottish Christmas Walk Weekend. On Dec. 1, more than 100 Scottish clans dressed in colorful tartans will parade through the streets of Old Town. They'll be joined by pipe and drum bands from around the region, as well as terriers and hounds of every description. The Saint Andrew's Society of Washington, D.C., partners with the Campagna Center and the City of Alexandria to host the annual parade. Other events of the weekend include A Christmas Marketplace and A Taste of Scotland, both on Nov. 30, and the Campagna Center’s Holiday Designer Tour of Homes on Dec. 1. Consistently ranked by the Southeast Tourism Society as one of the top 20 events in the South, this event has grown from a small informal parade to an entire weekend filled with events and festivities. Free for parade and marketplace; $100 Taste of Scotland (general admission); $35 Designer Tour of Homes. Call 703-549-0111 or visit scottishchristmaswalk.com.

Alexandria Harmonizers Holiday Dinner Theater. Friday, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. Featuring seasonal favorites in caroling and choral masterpiece sets; a light hearted musical play starring the one and only "Jack In The Box"; plus a delicious dinner served by your singing Harmonizer waiters. Reserved table seating. Adults $30, children $15, seniors $25. Purchase tickets at www.harmonizers.org. Venue: First Baptist Church of Alexandria, 2932 King St. Call 571-969-1377 or visit www.harmonizers.org.

Craft Sale. Heritage Presbyterian Church will hold a “Made By The Bell” Christmas Boutique on Nov. 30, from 3-7 p.m. and on Dec. 1, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Handmade Christmas décor, ornaments, hand knitted items, baked goods, and unique gifts are among the items for sale. Heritage Presbyterian Church is located at 8503 Fort Hunt Road. One hundred percent of the proceeds go to support Heritage Presbyterian Women’s outreach programs for children and women. Call 703-360-9546.

Friday-Sunday/Nov. 30-Dec. 2

Del Ray Artisans’ 17th annual Holiday Market. Handmade work from local artists plus bake sale. Reception is on Friday, from 6-9 p.m. The hours are 10 a.m.-4 p.m.on Saturday and noon-4 p.m. on Sunday. Visit TheDelRayArtisans.org/HolidayMarket.

Artfête Weekend. Open house and holiday party celebrate expansion of Madison Annex. Exhibits of instructor artwork, artist demos, a wearable art runway show. Food and drinks are provided by Chadwick’s and Lavender Moon Cupcakery. Live music by Orquesta Tropikiimba. Ceramic and jewelry sales continue throughout the weekend. Artfête holiday party is on Friday, Nov. 30, 6-9 p.m. Ceramic sale is noon-9 p.m. on Friday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. on Saturday, and noon-5 p.m. on Sunday. Jewelry sale is noon-9 p.m. on Friday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Saturday, and noon-4 p.m. on Sunday. At The Art League’s Madison Annex, 305 Madison St. Visit www.theartleague.org or call 703-683-2323.

Nov. 30 through Dec. 16

The Little Theatre of Alexandria’s “A Christmas Carol.” 8 p.m. Ring in the holiday season with a return of the classic by Charles Dickens. Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserly Victorian humbug, travels with ghostly guides through Christmas past, present, and future to find the true meaning of the holidays. Complete with special effects, Victorian carols, and Tiny Tim, “A Christmas Carol” is a must for the entire family. Little Theatre of Alexandria is located at 600 Wolfe St. Call 703-683-0496 or visit www.thelittletheatre.com for showtimes or to purchase tickets. $15 (does not include service fees).

Saturday/Dec. 1

Annual Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights. Alexandria's Historic Waterfront at the foot of Cameron Street. At sundown, Alexandria's harbor lights up when more than 50 illuminated boats cruise the Potomac River at the historic waterfront, led by Alexandria's fireboat Vigilant and Washington, D.C.'s fireboat John Glenn. Call 703-746-3301 or visit www.alexandriava.com.

An Advent Quiet Day Workshop. 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. With David Vryhof, SSJE of The Society of Saint John the Evangelist. Pause to consider the nature of gratitude, the expression of gratitude, and the lens of gratitude through which we can see the world and all its creatures. In McMurray Commons. Registration begins at 9 a.m. The $35 fee covers breakfast and a light lunch, as well as tea and coffee. Contact Phil Lyons at PhilipBLyons@AOL.com or 703-960-6468.

Barbershop Harmony Concert. 1 p.m. Free. Celebrate the holiday season with the Harmony Heritage Singers at Sherwood Regional Library. In classic barbershop style, the 40-member Harmony Heritage Singers perform traditional Christmas songs such as “It’s Beginning to Look Like Christmas” and “Angels We Have Heard on High” spiced with a few chorus favorites like “Delta Dawn” and the Beach Boys hit, "Barbara Ann." All are welcome. At Sherwood Regional Library, 2501 Sherwood Hall Lane. Call 703-765-4779 or email brandtron@verizon.net.

Holiday Craft Fair. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Alexandria Unit 24, The American Legion Auxiliary, is having a holiday craft fair in Gadsby's Tavern located at 400 Cameron St., featuring 20 crafters of wide variety and homemade baked goods.

Christmas Walk. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Stroll through lovely properties in the historic district of Alexandria dressed up for the holidays by acclaimed interior designers and local florists. Part of the 42nd Annual Scottish Christmas Walk Weekend, the proceeds from the tour go directly toward the programs of The Campagna Center. Purchase tickets at St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 228 S. Pitt St.

Concert. 7:30 p.m. Chris Smither will bring his new album Hundred Dollar Valentine, perform with special guest, New Yorker illustrator & musician Andy Friedman at The Birchmere located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Tickets are $25. Call 703-549-7500 or visit www.birchmere.com.

Saturday-Sunday/Dec. 1-2, Dec. 8-9, and Dec. 15-6

Dec. 1-25

The Christmas Attic's Holiday Advent Calendar. The Christmas Attic, has partnered with area schools, churches, and community groups again to help produce its annual temporary exhibition featuring illuminated canvases of art for The Christmas Attic’s Holiday Advent Calendar Event. Each day at sundown, the store will reveal “advent art” featuring a variety of local holiday creations. All art will be placed either in the windows or on the brick of the building on the front side facing Union Street. Visitors can picture the entire building being transformed into an advent calendar. There will be holiday entertainment and activities inside the store for shoppers to enjoy on a variety of nights. At the closing of the Advent Calendar event, the canvases of advent art will be available for auction at a post-event celebration (to be scheduled). Proceeds from the auction will go to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of the Mid-Atlantic. At The Christmas Attic, 125 S. Union St. Call 703-548-2829 or visit www.christmasattic.com.

Friday, Dec. 2

Christ Church’s Nine Lessons and Carols service. 5 p.m. The Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols is a worship service celebrating the birth of Jesus that is traditionally followed at Christmas. Contact Jason Abel at jabel@ccalex.org or 703-549-1450 ext. 104. Christ Church is located at 118 N. Washington St.

Annual Toys for Tots. 1-5 p.m. The City’s 38th annual Toys for Tots Benefit Square Dance will be held at Lee Center Exhibit Hall, 1108 Jefferson St. This year’s theme is “Feelin’ Great at Thirty-Eight” and features a special 3 p.m. performance by Capital Squares Demonstration Team. The annual square and round dance benefits the United States Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Drive. Recommended donation for each couple is a new, unopened toy or a $10 minimum contribution (singles $5). All toys and proceeds from this dance will remain in the Washington metropolitan area. To donate a toy, drop off donation until 3 p.m. at the Lee Center. Call 703-746-5592 or 703-746-4343.

Through Dec. 2

Monday/Dec. 3

Fabricated: An Exhibition of Wearable Art.  Deadline for entry is on Dec. 3.  Exhibition will be from Feb. 2 through Mar. 3, 2013. Fabricated is an all-media exhibition featuring “wearable art." While the making of any article of clothing or other wearable object typically involves aesthetic considerations, the term wearable art implies that the work is intended to be accepted as a serious and unique artistic creation or statement. It is open to all artists nationally and internationally. Visit www.targetgallery.com.

Through Dec. 3

Tuesday/Dec. 4

Birchmere Shows. The Brian Setzer Orchestra. Extravaganza 2012 US Tour. 8 p.m. Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Ln. Tickets on sale through www.Strathmore.org or call 301-581-5100

Author Series with Nathan Leslie. 7-8:30 p.m. Leslie will discuss his book, The Tail of Tommy Twice at the Beatley Central Library, 5005 Duke St. Free. Visit www.alexandria.lib.va.us or call 703-746-1702.

Free Concert. 7:30 p.m. Guest violinists Jonathan Carney and Benny Kim join the National Chamber Players, a chamber ensemble made up of members of the National Symphony Orchestra, in a performance of Corelli's Christmas Concerto and Vivaldi's The Four Seasons. The concert is free and open to the public. At Pendleton Hall, Episcopal High School, 3900 W Braddock Road. Visit www.episcopalhighschool.org, or email vdp@episcopalhighschool.org, or call 703-933-4135.

Researching George Washington’s Religious Convictions. 6-8 p.m. Free. Mary Thompson, research historian at Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate, will discuss George Washington’s religious values through research using the assembled primary documents at Mount Vernon Estate. At Morrison House located at 116 South Alfred St. Visit www.morrisonhouse.com or call 703-838-8000.

Wednesday/Dec. 5

Author Series with Elizabeth Schuch. 7-8:30 p.m. Free. Schuch will discuss her personal memoir, “More Than Bipolar: A Memoir of Acceptance and Hope,” at the Beatley Central Library, 5005 Duke St. Visit www.alexandria.lib.va.us or call 703-746-1702.

Thursday/Dec. 6

White Christmas with Peter White, Mindi Abair, & special guest TBA at the Birchmere. $49.50 Visit www.peterwhite.com/ or www.mindiabair.com/

Art Focus Group. 7:30-9 p.m. Clay in the Classroom: Sculpture, Sensory Exploration and Community Building. Learn about the many benefits of good clean play with mud in the classroom. Classes are $25 each or $200 for the 10 class series. A school or group of teachers can share the registration for the full series. At 2804 Sherwood Hall Ln. Call 703-201-1250.

Free Concert. 7:30-9:30 p.m. The 2013 Living Legends of Alexandria nominees will be introduced with a musical tribute, featuring music by the NOVA Community Chorus, the NOVA Jazz Ensemble and the NOVA Alexandria Band in the Rachel M. Schlesinger Hall, 3001 N. Beauregard St. The nominees of 2013 Living Legends of Alexandria are introduced to the community at 6:30-7:15 p.m. Free, parking in the Beauregard Parking Garage is $6. Contact Nina Tisara at NinaT@ninatisara.com or Lisa Eckstein at leckstein@nvcc.edu.

Friday/Dec. 7

Holiday on the Avenue. 6-9 p.m. The entire community comes together to light the neighborhood Christmas tree. Even Santa attends. This joyous celebration is followed by an evening stroll down the Avenue, which is illuminated by thousands of candles, called “luminarias.” Del Ray Farmer's Market at Mount Vernon Ave. and E. Oxford Ave. Call 703-746-3301 or visit www.visitalexandriava.com.

1964 The Tribute. 7:30 p.m. 1964 The Tribute is cheered worldwide by recreating a Beatles concert performed live, with exact detailed reproduction of the songs, voices, instruments, suits, haircuts and even the iconic "Beatle Boots" made famous by the Fab Four. Now it will appear at The Birchmere Music Hall located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Tickets are priced at $35 available at http://www.ticketmaster.com.

Friday-Sunday/Dec. 7-9

Del Ray Artisans’ 17th annual Holiday Market. Handmade work from local artists plus bake sale. Reception is on Friday, from 6 to 9 p.m. The hours are 10 a.m.-4 p.m.on Saturday and noon-4 p.m. on Sunday. Visit TheDelRayArtisans.org/HolidayMarket.

Saturday/Dec. 8

Christmas Open House. 12-4 p.m. Join a Civil War-era Santa at this family-fun holiday event that explores how Christmas was observed during the Civil War. The program features living-history interpreters, a Victorian Christmas tree, period music, refreshments, readings of “The Night Before Christmas” and a patriotic Santa Claus inspired by Thomas Nast’s Civil War cartoon. Guided tours of the fort, weather permitting. At Fort Ward Museum & Historic Site, 4301 W. Braddock Rd. Call 703-746-4848 or visit www.historicalexandria.org Admissions are $2 for adults, $1 for children.

Breakfast with Santa. 9 a.m. Join for the 5th annual Breakfast with Santa. The elves will begin seating at 9 a.m. as we eagerly await Santa’s arrival. There will be plently of time to sit on Santa’s lap and share list with him. A full breakfast buffet will be available. At Carlyle Club, 411 John Carlyle St., Call 703-548-8899 or visit www.thecarlyleclub.com Admissions are $28.95 for adults; $15.95 for kids age 4-12; free for age 3 and under.

Holiday Gifts Jewerly Workshop. 2-3 p.m. Free. Make four unique holiday gifts, stamp tags, and make your own gift boxes. Limited to 12 participants. At the Beatley Central Library, 5005 Duke St. Visit www.alexandria.lib.va.us or call 703-746-1702.

Artisans Holiday Marketplace. 3-6 p.m. At Durant Center, 1605 Cameron St. Entrepreneurs Class 2012, Fall Semester Showcase of Graduates’ Micro-Businesses Graduation Ceremony Artisans Holiday Marketplace. Offer complimentary homemade appetizers and art desserts. Proceeds benefit EWI and our local artists and creative entrepreneurs. Holiday selection include one-of-a-kind jewelry, scarves, designer aprons, skin and beauty products, fine art, note cards, holiday ornaments and more. Free, but RSVP required. Visit ewint.org.

Kwanzaa Celebration. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. The Alexandria Black History Museum and Culture Kingdom Kids will host a Kwanzaa Celebration program exploring the history and significance of Kwanzaa at the Museum located at 902 Wythe St. Admissions are $5. Patrons needing special accommodation must notify the museum two weeks prior to the event. Visit www.alexblackhistory.org.

Dec. 8-30

5x5(x5) Exhibition. The Torpedo Factory Art Center¹s Target Gallery presents 5x5(x5), featuring 112 works by 68 artists working in a variety of media. Reception is on Thursday, Dec. 13, from 6-8 p.m.; juror talk with Stefanie Fedor at 7 p.m. At Target Gallery, Torpedo Factory Art Center, 105 N. Union Street. Visit www.torpedofactory.org/target

Saturday-Sunday/Dec.8-9

Historic Alexandria Candlelight Tours. Special pre-sale discount if tickets purchased before Dec. 1. Take a break from the fast pace of the season and enjoy the unique charm and history of Old Town at this popular holiday event. Tour Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, Carlyle House, Lee-Fendall House and the historic Bank of Alexandria building by candlelight and enjoy seasonal decorations, entertainment and light refreshments. Special this year – a holiday taste of historic chocolate, co-sponsored by the Historic Division of Mars, Inc. Saturday from 6-9 p.m.; Sunday from 3 to 6 p.m. At Gadsby's Tavern Museum, Carlyle House, Lee-Fendall House. Call 703-746-4242 or visit www.historicalexandria.org. Admission is $20 for adults, $15 for seniors and $5 for children.

Sunday/Dec. 9

Christmas Music. 9:45 a.m. The Plymouth Haven Baptist Church Children’s Choir will present their Christmas music presentation in the Fellowship Hall, 8600 Plymouth Dr. Open to the public.

Birchmere Show: An Intimate Holiday Evening with Raul Malo. 7:30 p.m. $29.50. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.

Holiday Evening with Raul Malo. 7:30 p.m. $29.50. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.

Bell Ringing. 2-3 p.m. Bells will be ringing when Alexandria's Browne Academy musicians deliver their Handbells performance at the Charles E. Beatley Central Library, 5005 Duke St. Refreshments will be served. Open to the Public. Call 703-746-1702 or visit www.alexandria.lib.va.us.

Concert. 4 p.m. New Dominion Chorale, conducted by Artistic Director Thomas Beveridge, will present J.S. Bach’s Christmas Oratorio at the Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center on the Alexandria Campus of Northern Virginia Community College, 3001 North Beauregard St. The Chorale will be joined by soloists from the Washington National Cathedral and a professional orchestra in a performance of the Advent portion of Bach’s work in a new English translation by Beveridge, founder and artistic director. Tickets are $30, $25 for seniors, $20 for individuals in groups of 10 or more, and $5 for students and children. Tickets are available online at www.newdominion.org or at the door. Parking is free. Visit www.newdominion.org or call 703-442-9404.

Monday/Dec. 10

A John Waters Christmas 'Command Performance!' at the Birchmere. $49.50 (John will be signing copies of books purchased at the show!) Visit www.dreamlandnews.com/ or www.Birchmere.com. On Sale Fri. July 27 at noon.

Wednesday/Dec. 12

Author Series with Dennis Pogue. 7-8:30 p.m. Pogue will discuss his book, Founding Sprits: Geoge Washington and the Beginnings of the American Whiskey Industry at the Beatley Central Library, 5005 Duke St. Visit www.alexandria.lib.va.us or call 703-746-1702.

Wednesday-Thursday/Dec. 12-13

Free Musical. 7:30 p.m. The Music, Drama & Liturgical Dance Ministries of the historic Alfred Street Baptist Church will present “Great Joy, A Gospel Christmas,” at T.C. Williams High School, 3330 King St. Joseph Joubert will be the special guest artist. Free parking available. Call 703-683-2222 or visit www.alfredstreet.org.

Thursday/Dec. 13

Roaring ’20s Holiday Party. Celebrate the holidays with Eventurous in Roaring ’20s style at Two Nineteen Restaurant in Old Town Alexandria. The lavish night includes a Roaring ’20s themed costume party in historic speakeasy setting. Gourmet buffet featuring popular ’20s era cuisine, custom era craft cocktails, a live blues band, an "Underground" poker room, Hand-rolled and premium cigars. Every ticket comes with a complimentary premium cigar. Those who purchase a ticket and arrive in "Twenties" inspired costume, will also receive a complimentary era cocktail ($12 - $16 value). Tickets must be purchased online prior to the event. Two Nineteen Restaurant is located at 219 King St. Guests can arrive at 6:30 p.m. Band and poker start at 8 p.m. Visit http://roaring20sholiday-ConnectionsNews.eventbrite.com.

Thursday Art Night: Decadent December — Chocolate & Shopping. 6-9 p.m. Celebrate the season with chocolate and shopping. Studios and galleries will be open until 9 p.m. for holiday shopping. Attend gallery receptions for 5x5(x5) in Target Gallery from 6 to 8 p.m., and Suzanne Vigil: Up Close & Too Personal and the All-Media Membership Show in The Art League Gallery from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Enjoy live music by The WAAC Band. At Torpedo Factory Art Center, 105 N. Union St. Visit www.torpedofactory.org or call 703-838-4565 x2.

Friday/Dec. 14 and 15

Four Bitchin’ Babes 'Jingle Babes!' featuring Sally Fingerett, Debi Smith, Deidre Flint, Marcy Marxer at the Birchmere $35.00 Visit www.fourbitchinbabes.com/ or www.Birchmere.com. On Sale Fri. July 20 at noon.

Friday-Sunday/Dec. 14-16

Sunday/Dec. 16

Christmas Celebration. 10:30 a.m. Plymouth Haven Baptist Church located at 8600 Plymouth Dr. presents their Adult Choir Christmas Celebration entitled, Agnus Dei, and followed by dinner in the fellowship hall. The public is invited, and RSVP is required for non-members at 703-360-4370.

Holiday Jazz Fest. 2-3 p.m. Celebrate the holiday season with the Mike Gillispie Quartet at the Charles E. Beatley Central Library, 5005 Duke St. Call 703-746-1702 or visit www.alexandria.lib.va.us. Free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served.

Christmas Candlelight Service. 6 p.m. Alexandria Presbyterian Church invites the public to its annual Christmas Candlelight Service. Entitled "Light in Us Your Love’s Bright Flame," this Lessons and Carols service will feature the APC adult and youth choirs, brass group and congregational carol singing by candlelight. Childcare will be provided, including special activities for kids ages 3-6. A special reception will follow immediately after the service. The program will begin with a brass quintet prelude at 5:45 p.m. Alexandria Presbyterian Church is located at 2405 Russell Road. Free. Call 703-683-3348 or visit www.alexandriapres.org.

Wednesday/Dec. 19

Birchmere Show: Chatham County Line 'Electric Holiday Tour.’ 7:30 p.m. $22.50. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.

Thursday/Dec. 20

CARBON LEAF at the Birchmere. $27.50 Visit http://carbonleaf.com/

Friday/Dec. 21

Pieces Of A Dream at the Birchmere $35.00 Visit www.piecesofadream.net/ or www.Birchmere.com

Saturday/Dec. 22

Birchmere Shows. 7:30 p.m. At the Music Hall, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Bill Kirchen’s Honky Tonk Holiday Show. $29.5 Visit http://billkirchen.com/.

Sunday/Dec. 23

Christine Lavin & Uncle Bonsai 'Just One Angel' at the Birchmere. $25.00 Visit www.christinelavin.com/ or www.unclebonsai.com/ or www.Birchmere.com

Sunday/Jan. 6

An Evening of Musical/Political Humor with Mark Russell. 7:30 p.m. $49.50. Visit www.markrussell.net/. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.

Thursday/Jan. 24, 2013

Birchmere Shows. 7:30 p.m. At the Music Hall, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Jeffrey Osborne. $65. Visit http://www.jeffreyosborne.com/

Saturday/Feb. 2

Charles Ross One Man Star Wars Trilogy. 7:30 p.m. $35. Visit www.onemanstarwars.com/. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.

Sunday/Feb. 10

10,000 Maniacs. 7:30 p.m. $35. Visit www.maniacs.com/ The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.

Saturday/Feb. 23

Harmony Sweepstakes 2013 'Mid Atlantic Regional.' 7:30 p.m. $29.50. Visit www.harmony-sweepstakes.com/. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.

Thursday/Feb. 28

Birchmere Shows. 7:30 p.m. At the Music Hall, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. $45. Visit http://www.nittygritty.com/

Mar. 1-3

Birchmere Shows. 7:30 p.m. At the Music Hall, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. The Bacon Brothers. $39.5. Visit http://baconbros.com/

Mar. 15-16

Birchmere Shows. 7:30 p.m. At the Music Hall, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. The Average White Band. $35. Visit http://www.averagewhiteband.com/

Open Through 2012

The Marshall House Incident Exhibition:This exhibit at Fort Ward features objects from the museum collection to tell the notable story about the event that launched the Civil War in Alexandria. Fort Ward Museum (4301 West Braddock Rd.) is open Tuesday - Saturday, from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., and Sunday, from noon - 5 p.m. Visit www.fortward.org or call 703-746-4848.

SPECIAL COLLECTIONS / Local History & Genealogy

Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library, 717 Queen St.

Tel: 703-746-1703, Fax: 703-746-1708

Mon 1 p.m.-9 p.m.; Tues 2 p.m.-9 p.m.; Wed 10 a.m.-7p.m.; Fri 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat 10 a.m-5 p.m.

SPECIAL COLLECTIONS NEW HOURS. Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library, 717 Queen St. Alexandria Library is pleased to extend the operating hours of its Special Collections branch, which will now be open every Saturday from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

TALKING BOOK SERVICE - For Blind and Physically Handicapped

5005 Duke St. (Second Floor), 22304

Tel: 703-746-1760 Fax: 703-746-1738 TTY (Hearing Impaired): 703-746-1790

Mon-Fri 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Saturday/Nov. 10

Stephanie Mills. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $69.50. Visit www.stephaniemillsmusic.com. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.

Sunday/Nov. 11

IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF DJANGO featuring Lulo Reinhardt's Latin Swing Ensemble, Les Doigts de l'Homme and Norig Gadji & Sebastien Giniaux. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $35.00. Visit www.herschelfreemanagency.com. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.

Friday/Nov. 16

MICHAEL FRANKS. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $45.00. visit http://michaelfranks.com. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.

Saturday/Nov. 17

PAULA POUNDSTONE. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $39.50. Visit www.paulapoundstone.com. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.

Friday/Jan. 18, 2013

The Northern Virginia Fine Arts Society (NVFAA) is pleased to announce the next four scheduled SLAM ALEXANDRIA spoken word poetry events at the Athenaeum in Old Town. Admission is free for all, but attendees interested in competing in the poetry slam can pay an entry fee of $10 for a chance to win a $100 cash prize. Featuring live music, scheduled artists, and an open mic, SLAM ALEXANDRIA is hosted by Shelly Bell and co-sponsored by the NVFAA and Shelly B. Arts. The event starts at 7 p.m. and is located at The Athenaeum, 201 Prince St.

Through Sept. 2013

Life in Civil War Alexandria Exhibition. Daily exhibit traces life in Alexandria following Virginia's decision to secede from the Union in May 1861. At The Lyceum, Alexandria's History Museum, 201 South Washington St. Open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday, 1-5 p.m. Suggested admission $2. Visit www.alexandriahistory.org or call 703-746-4994.

The Connection