NYC Cheap and Free Christmas 2011 Events Guide!

September 23, 2011 through February 12, 2012
See the original Christmas Carol Manuscipt
The manuscript is on display at the Morgan Library and Museum as part of its Charles Dickens at 200 exhibit. Morgan Libary and Museum, 225 Madison Ave. at 36th Street, cost: $15 for adults! Cheap Chick Cheap Tip: The museum is free on Friday nights from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

September 23, 2011 through February 12, 2012
Vintage Christmas Cards Exhibit
"The exhibition presents twenty of the most prominent classes of Christmas card imagery and introduces the viewer to a few other categories of cards determined by form or purpose. These classes include everything from candles and poinsettias to coaching and travel, the three kings, and visiting for the holidays." Tues, Wed, Fri – Sun: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m., Thurs: 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. Bard Graduate Center, 18 W. 86th Street bet. between Central Park West and Columbus Avenue, cost: $5 seniors/students, $7 general admission!

November 19, 2011- January 16, 2012
Holiday Train Show at Grand Central Terminal
From the museum website, “Lionel trains journey through a miniature New York City from Grand Central to the North Pole! A companion exhibit of holiday covers from more than 80 years of The New Yorker sets the stage.”

November 20, 2011-January 9, 2012
New York Botanical Garden Holiday Train Show
The Holiday Train Show at the New York Botanical Garden features model trains and more than 140 replicas of New York City landmarks, The New York Botanical Garden, 2900 Southern Boulevard, Cost: $20!

November 21, 2011-January 2, 2012
Origami Tree at the Museum of Natural History
This year’s origami tree is inspired by the blue whale in the Milstein Hall of Ocean Life, The World’s Largest Dinosaurs Exhibit, and other animals and inanimate objects found in the museum.

November 22, 2011-January 6, 2012
Holiday Creche at the Metropolitan Museum of Art
The Met’s annual Christmas Creche in the Medieval Sculpture Hall features 18th century holiday decorations as well as a detailed Neapolitan Nativity scene. The special holiday exhibit will also include seasonal music and tree-lighting ceremonies! Fifth Avenue at 82nd Street, Cost: Suggested donation of $20 (Cheap Chick Cheap Tip: The suggested donation is very loose, simply tell a cashier that you'd like to make a donation and hand over a $1-or less-whatever you want to pay!)

November 25-December 4, 2011
Nutcracker in the Lower
Abrons Art Center along with the Urban Ballet Theater presents this re-imagining of the classic holiday tale for the tenth year in a row. “Abrons Nutcracker in the Lower explodes with daring and delight, twisting the classic story of Clara and her magical adventures to reflect Manhattan's cultural diversity. The party scene, traditionally depicted as an opulent 19th-century ball, becomes a holiday salsa fiesta. The battle scene can easily be imagined in a crumbling subway station as gigantic mice and crisp toy soldiers wage war over the heroine's fate.” Abrons Arts Center, 466 Grand Street (at Pitt Street). Tkts are $25 and can be bought here: https://web.ovationtix.com/trs/pr/870655

November 25, 2011-January 8, 2012
Santa Claus at The New York Historical Society Museum & Library
Discover Gotham’s role in the evolution of Santa Claus at the newly renovated New York Historical Society in their new exhibit, "It Happened Here: The Invention of Santa Claus." “The transition from third century St. Nicholas of Myra to holly jolly Santa Claus was jump-started by Clement Clarke Moore in his famous poem "Twas the Night Before Christmas." The Santa segue was also helped by New Yorkers Washington Irving and Thomas Nast.”

Tuesday November 29, 2011
Tree Lighting and Nutcracker Performance at World Financial Center Winter Garden
From Mommy Poppins, “The lovely glass atrium is decorated with 100,000 lights, transforming it into a twinkling snow globe. Afterward, the New York Theatre Ballet performs its kid-friendly one-hour rendition of The Nutcracker. 6 p.m., World financial Center Winter Garden, 220 Vesey Street, free!

Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at Bryant Park
The 2011 Citi Pond at Bryant Park tree lighting features Grammy Award–winning singer-songwriter Sarah McLachlan. Joining McLachlan are performances from Broadway musicals, and routines from Olympic skaters! The 50-foot tree has more than 3,000 ornaments and tens of thousands of lights. 7 p.m. to 8 p.m., Bryant Park,

Wednesday November 30, 2011
Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting
A NYC tradition! Brave the crowds to see the tree being lit with more than 30,000 environmentally-friendly lights! 7 p.m.to 9 p.m., Rockefeller Plaza, between West 48th and West 51st Streets and 5th and 6th Avenues, free!

Thursday December 1-Sunday December 18, 2011
Reid Farrington’s A Christmas Carol
Thursday, Friday, Saturday 8 pm Sunday 4 pm
This multimedia event incorporates live performers and projections as well as film clips from 35 versions of the holiday classic! From Abrons Art Center, “Through complex staging and choreography, the show mashes together over 100 years of film history. Performers slip in and out of characters from the Alastair Sim, George C. Scott, and Bill Murray versions, as well as The Muppets and Mr. Magoo variations (and many more) to create an imaginative and new interpretation of the beloved Dickens story.” Abrons Art Center, 466 Grand Street, tkts are $20, $10/students and seniors and can be bought here: https://web.ovationtix.com/trs/pr/870505

Thursday December 1, 2011-Mid-January 2012
Le Parker Meridien Gingerbread House Display
See artistic gingerbread creations at the famed hotel! Le Parker Meridien, 119 West 56th Street, Just $1, and all proceeds benefit City Harvest!

December 1, 2011 through January 9, 2012
From Candlelight to Bubble Light: a 1950s Christmas in a 1850s House
The Merchant’s House Museum is sponsoring this exhibit! From the website, “The halls of the 1850s Merchant’s House will be retro-decked with vintage trees, over-the-tinsel-top decorations, and memorabilia from the golden age of Christmas, while strains of “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” and “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” drift through the House. Indulge in the nostalgia of Christmas past and see how the holiday innovations of the 1850s became the traditions of the 1950s — and today. From the Collection of Deb O’Nair. Included with regular admission.” Merchant’s House Museum, 29 East Fourth Street, Cost: $10!

Thursday December 1, 2011
Shape Up NYC: Nutrition Seminar - Healthy Eating During the Holidays
Learn strategies to eat healthier this holiday season! 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., Lost Battalion Hall Recreation Center, 93-29 Queens Boulevard, Queens, free!

Thursday December 1, and Friday December 2, 2011
Musical Mad Men Parody The Mad World of Miss Hathaway gives Christmas a shot with 'Misogyny and Mistletoe,' 8 p.m., Wild Project. 195 East 3rd Street, $20!

December 1, and December 8, 2011
Create Unique Holiday Gifts at the Folk Art Museum
Make an origami star book (December 1) or a stuffed Yeti (December 8) at the museum's "Make it Thursdays" program! 6p.m. Folk Art Museum, 2 Lincoln Square (Columbus Avenue at 66th Street), $10 admission includes workshop and glass of wine! RSVP required here: http://www.folkartmuseum.org/calendar

Friday December 2, 2011
Holiday Candlelight First Friday! + Bronx Seaside Trolley
From the Museum, “Experience the magic of the mansion by candlelight and decorated for the holidays. Christmas trees inspired by children’s holiday stories are featured throughout the house. Do a little holiday shopping, delight in music by the a cappella Metropolitones, and enjoy holiday refreshments. The free Bronx Seaside Trolley makes a continuous loop from the #6 Pelham Bay Park subway station to BPMM to City Island.” 5:30 p.m. to 8:30p.m. Bartow-Pell Mansion, 895 Shore Road, Pelham Bay Park, Registration requested, To register call 718.885.1461 or send email. Cost: $10 adults, $8 seniors & students; members free!

Washington Square Music Festival Holiday Concert
This free holiday concert will feature iconic and eclectic music, both played and sung, by Festival artists soprano Lucia Hyunju Song, pianist David Oei, violinist Eriko Sato, and cellist Lutz Rath. 8 p.m., St. Joseph's Roman Catholic Church, 371 Sixth Avenue. Please click here for the full program, free!

Friday December 2-December 18, 2011
Jacob Marley's Christmas Carol
The Staten Island Shakespearean Theater takes on the classic holiday redemption tale from the point of view of Scrooge’s deceased partner, Jacob Marley. Written by playwright, Tom Mula and directed by Joseph Daly, this play “has become a "don't miss" holiday classic for the whole family!”Starring Jack Dabdoub, Charlie McLaughlin, Joseph Smith and Rina Sklar. Tickets available from SI Shakespearean Theatre. Conference House Museum (in Conference House Park) 298 Satterlee Street, Staten Island. All advance sales are on-line at http://www.nycgovparks.org/web/external/exit.php?url=http%3A//www.sistny.org. Tickets are $18 for regular admission and $15 for students and seniors. Conference House Association members call (718) 984-0415 or (718) 984-6046 for your ticket coupon discount code to this event. Additional December Performance Dates: Friday, Dec. 2nd at 8 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 3rd at 8 p.m., Sunday, Dec, 4th at 3 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 15th at 8 p.m., Friday, Dec. 16th at 8 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 17th at 8 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 18th at 3 p.m.

Friday December 3, 2011
Celebrate St. Nicholas Day at the Wyckoff Farmhouse
Celebrate St. Nick down on the farm! 12 p.m. to 4 p.m., St. Nicholas will arrive on horseback, and there will be a colonial music concert, holiday goodies like mulled cider and ginger cookies, as well as holiday craft making! St. Nicholas arrives around 2 p.m., Wyckoff Farmhouse, (ca. 1652) stands in M. Fidler-Wyckoff House Park, Brooklyn, cost: Adults: $5, Children: $3!

Gowanus Winter Festival-A Night of Food and Live Music
Concert and dinner to benefit Gowanus Canal Conservancy, specifically assisting with its Clean & Green Volunteer Program, Compost Program and Rain Garden projects! 9 p.m. to Midnight, Build It Green, 69 9th Street (bet. 2nd Avenue and the Canal, Concert is $15 (if you find some extra pennies in those couch cushions you can splurge on a farm-to-table meal from Restaurant Lot 2.) Tkts can be purchased here: http://gowanuscanalconservancy.org/ee/index.php/gcc_news/gcc_news?id=97

Watch zoo Animals Open their Christmas Presents at the Prospect Park Zoo!!
From the zoo, “The presents come early and often for the animals at the Prospect Park Zoo. Each weekend in December, at 11:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., watch as baboons, meerkats, otters, and other critters tear into treat-filled bags and boxes.”
December 3–4: Red pandas & Geoffreys tamarins
December 10–11: Hamadryas baboons & Pallas's cats.
December 17–18: Golden lion tamarins & Dwarf mongoose
December 24–25: Meerkats & North American river otters
Free with zoo admission ($8 for adults)

Wreath-making Workshops
Create an evergreen wreath at this seasonal workshop! Supplies provided; participants must bring garden shears. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Queens County Farm Museum, 73-50 Little Neck Pkwy Floral Park, NY, cost: $20, Advance tickets required. Please call (718) 347.3276 for more info.

Swedish Children’s Christmas Workshop
Children ages five to ten are invited to Experience how Swedes prepare for Christmas julpysseldag (Christmas craft day)! Kids will learn the secrets of making traditional holiday crafts like woven hearts, yarn tomtar, and paper angels. 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., Scandinavia House, 58 Park Avenue at 38th Street, $10 (space is limited, pre-registration is required.) For reservations, call 212.847.9740 or email event_reservation@amscan.org.

December 3-4, 10-11, 17-18
Central Park Zoo Winterfest
From the website, “Relish the beauty of the Zoo at the best time of the year—the winter holidays! On the first three Fridays and Saturdays in December, we're open until 6:30 p.m. so you can stop by in the afternoon or after work for a stroll under thousands of twinkling lights. Visit cold-weather creatures, enjoy crafts and Wildlife Theater, see two wintry 4-D features, and watch the animals enjoy fish-cicles, fruits, and other favorite treats during holiday enrichment sessions. For a break from the chilly air, warm up with birds, lemurs, and tortoises in the Tropic Zone, a steamy 80 degrees all year long. Also do some holiday shopping at the Zootique and enjoy to holiday treats and hot cocoa in the Dancing Crane Cafe. For more info on specific activities go here: http://www.centralparkzoo.com/plan-your-trip/events-calendar/presents-to-the-animals.aspx and to purchase tkts (adult tkts are $16.) go here: http://www.centralparkzoo.com/cpz-ticket-discount/

Saturday December 4, 2011
Danu Celtic Christmas Concert
ConcertIrish ensemble Danú delivers a Celtic Christmas to the Winter Garden with traditional holiday songs from their homeland, 2 p.m. World Financial Center Winter Garden, 220 Vesey Street, free!

Christmas in Richmond Town & Traditional Tree Lighting
10:00 am - 5:00 p.m. M. Bennett Café Opens 9:30 a.m.Bell choir—historical museum, 1:00 pm - 3:00 p.m. Horse and wagon rides: $2.00 Traditional tree lighting: 5:00 p.m. From Historic Richmond Town, “It's Christmas season in the Village! Watch as glittering ornaments are made by the Tinsmith, take your won photos with Santa, hear young carolers present holiday songs, or listen to lively storytelling session; tour the village, decorated in its holiday finery. Visit the Courthouse for greenery, home-baked goodies, and holiday gift items for sale. Admission to courtroom: $2! Sponsored by the Women's Auxiliary

Tuesday December 6, 2011
Twilight Tours of Christmas in the Colonies
From Van Cortlandt House, “Van Cortlandt House will be decked out the finest 18th century holiday decorations and bathed in the warm glow of candlelight. Warning to fans of Santa Claus as envisioned by Clement Clark Moore - you won't find a Christmas tree or red-suited jolly old elf anywhere near Van Cortlandt House. What you will find is a glittering display of sugary sweets, the legend of Saint Nicholas explaining how stockings hung by a chimney became associated with Christmas, and a cheery glass of warm cider at the conclusion of your tour. Van Cortlandt House, Broadway at West 246th Street, Bronx This tour is included with regular Museum admission. First tour begins at 3:00 p.m. followed by another at 4:00 p.m. Reservations will be taken after November 15, space is limited; call (718) 543-3344. (Also held Thursdays, December 8 and 15 and Tuesday, December 13 at the same times.) Cost: $5

Madison Square Park Tree Lighting
Join in a tree lighting ceremony with food provided by Hill Country Chicken & Hill Country Barbecue Market. The New York Life Singers and Audra Rox will also be performing! Madison Square Park, 23rd-26th Streets bet. Fifth and Madison Avenues, free!

Wall Street Tree Lighting
From the Downtown Alliance, “Join the New York Stock Exchange Euronext community for the 88th Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony to celebrate the holidays on Wall Street. 5 p.m.- 7 p.m., free!

A SRSLY Grumpy Holiday Show
SRSLY LOL (a variety show that originated in Brooklyn) is teaming up with GrumpyFilms for 'A SRSLY Grumpy Holiday Show,'” a truly original variety extravaganza happening for one night only at the PIT (People”s Improv Theater)!Hosted by SRSLY LOLs H. Alan Scott the night will feature music, comedy, short GrumpyFilms, drag, AND a special appearance by a man in very little clothing. Theyll put the 'ho' back in Santa's 'Ho! Ho! Ho! (Unless you're Jewish, then they’ll redefine the meaning of playing with your dreidel.)
The lineup includes: Garry Hannon, Ben Lerman, Sharon Mama Spell, and Provincetown's 'Showgirl of the Year' Mona Mour! 8 p.m., People’s Improv Theater, 123 E. 24th Street, tkts are $5 and can be bought here: http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/211560

Women in Music Holiday Party
Women in Music (music industry professionals) is throwing its annual holiday party with free beverages and snacks + performances by hesta prynn, star eyes, and gina turner. The event is sponsored by Oxygen Media with addt’l sponsors inc. Additional sponsorship support by Absolut Vodka, Pabst Blue Ribbon, Vitamin Water, Bedford Cheese Shop, Pop Chips, BMI, SESAC, ASCAP, Joe Lambert Mastering, Treehouse Sound Studioand, and more! 7 p.m., Le Poisson Rouge, 158 Bleecker Street, $15 in advance/$25 at the door!

Wednesday December 7, 2011
Washington Square Park Christmas Tree Lighting
Sing holiday songs with the Rob Susman Brass Quartet (complimentary songbooks will be provided.) Santa Claus has promised to drop by to help illuminate the beautiful 45-foot-tall Christmas tree under the Washington Square Arch. 6 p.m., The Arch, Fifth Avenue and Washington Square North, free!

Thursday December 8, 2011
Womb of Advent
Enjoy a multimedia evening performance based on Mark Bozzuti-Jones’ book of meditations, The Womb of Advent. The evening will feature theatrical readings, dance, visual effects, and vocal and instrumental music, 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Trinity Wall Street, Broadway at Wall Street, free! A reception will follow at 8:30 p.m. Free! A reception will follow at 8:30pm.
British Memorial Garden Trust, Inc. To Hold Free “Victorian Celebration”This annual event will feature caroling and a tree lighting In Hanover Square as well as a free outdoor concert at 6:00 p.m. with carols by the Choir of Trinity Church The event will be followed by a ticketed reception with more carols, readings and a silent auction. Hanover Square, TK info, tree lighting etc., free!

Harlem Holiday Speakeasy Orchestra Holiday Party
This holiday party will feature seasonal tunes, some souljaz, some pack rat classics, and a whole bunch of brand-new, never before heard arrangements. Come all ye hipful and let us make your spirits bright. Special holiday drinks, party favors, carol sing-alongs and such. 8:30 p.m. midnight, The Cave at St. Georges209 East 16th Street, cost: $23 advance, $25 door!

Friday December 9, 2011
Kevin Geeks out Holiday Grab Bag
From 92ndYTribeca, “This month, Kevin gives the audience a Holiday Grab Bag; an evening filled with surprise entertainment. Seven special guests give the gift of weird, wonderful multi-media segments, with topics including Britney Spears’ punk clown, the secret life of Wonder Woman’s creator, confessions of a Macy’s Santa, How He-Man spends the Holidays, an epic poem about horror movie villians and a look at Doom Cakes—the cinematic tradition in which any beautifully decorated cake serves as a harbinger of imminent catastrophe (often including the destruction of said cake).” 8 p.m., 92ndYTribeca Screening Room, 200 Hudson Street, tkts are $10 and can be bought here: http://www.92y.org/tribeca/tickets/production.aspx?pid=79025

History of Christmas
Learn about the local origins of Christmas to the modern-day holiday! 12:30 p.m., Mount Vernon House Museum, 12:30 p.m., 421 East 61st Street between First and York Avenues, $8 for adults!

Charles Dickens and Christmas Carolers at the Morgan Museum
See Charles Dickens’ original Christmas Carol manuscript that’s on display as part of the museum’s “Charles Dickens at 200 exhibit.” Festive holiday music will be performed by carolers from Mannes College, 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Morgan Library and Museum, 225 Madison Avenue at 36th Street, free with museum admission, $15 (adult) Event repeats itself on December 16, 2011.

Eat, Drink and Be Merry at the Deadline Club’s Holiday Party
Calling all media professionals! (writers, editors, photographers, reporters, graphic designers) for good cheer as the Deadline Club (the NYC chapter of the Society of professional Journalists) celebrates the season at the Salmagundi Club. We’ll provide the food and a cash bar. You provide the holiday spirit! 6:30 p.m., The Salmagundi Arts Club, 47 Fifth Ave.,bet. 11th and 12th Streets, Cost: $10 for Deadline Club/SPJ members, $25 for non-members, FREE for board members! RSVP here: http://www.eventbrite.com/event/2240699994

Xmas Pop Sing-a-long
Belt out holiday tunes along with hit music videos from songsters including David Bowie and Bing Crosby, Mariah Carey, NSYNC, Wham, John Denver and the Muppets, Nat King Cole, John Lennon, Christina Aguilera, Charo, Run DMC, and Adam Sandler! Plus songs from TV holiday classics like A Charlie Brown Christmas, South Park, and A nightmare Before Christmas. There will also be $7 Egg Nog and Captain with a little sprinkle of "Keith Dust" over the top (a secret blend of sweet and spicy spices)! Free milk and cookies! A countdown with us to the announcement of the Santa Con starting location(s)! Prizes for being the most naughty/most nice! Santa Costume Contest! Best/Worst holiday sweater contest! Themed drinks like Santa's Sleigh, The Naughty List, Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer and more! After the party join Santa for guerrila caroling at local restaurnts and bars,10 p.m. Union Hall, 702 Union Street, $8!

Friday December 9-18, 2011 (various dates/times)
"A Charlie Brown Christmas"
A jazz trio will perform all the classic Vince Guaraldi tunes from the show live! Brooklyn Lyceum, 4th Avenue and President Street, Gowanus, $10 or four for $30, buy tickets here: https://www.vendini.com/ticket-software.html?e=24e917a3b2ebbd670d2e5a916954450c&t=tix

Saturday December 10, 2011
Santa-Con
Have you been naughty or nice this holiday season? Better check your list twice, cuz Santa Claus is coming to town-literally! According to the website, “Santacon is a non-denominational, non-commercial, non-political and non-sensical Santa Claus convention that occurs once a year for absolutely no reason.”

Saturday December 10, 2011 and Sunday December 11, 2011
Holiday Story Time with the New York Public Library
The New York Public Library invites kids of all ages to gather around for a mix of classic holiday tales and new favorites in a special holiday story time! 1 pm. To 2 p.m., World Financial Winter Garden, 220 Vesey Street, free!

Sunday December 11, 2011
TubaChristmas
From the TubaChristmas website, “TUBACHRISTMAS was conceived in 1974 as a tribute to the late artist/teacher William J. Bell, born on Christmas Day, 1902. Through the legendary William J. Bell we reflect on our heritage and honor all great artists/teachers whose legacy has given us high performance standards, well structured pedagogy, professional integrity, personal values and a camaraderie envied by all other instrumentalists.” See TUBACHRISTMAS in-person today Christian Wilhjelm, former conductor of the Goldman Memorial Band! 3:30 p.m., The rink at Rockefeller Center, Don’t have pricing info yet!

Santa Rescue at the New York Fire Museum
Watch FDNY firefighters rescue Santa from the top of the New York City Fire Museum. Once safely inside, Santa will take gift requests and pose for photos until 2:30 p.m. Hot dogs and hot chocolate will be available for purchase in the Museum’s third floor Christmas Café and Christmas carols will be performed live by John Clacher’s firehouse band. 11:30 a.m. New York Fire Museum, Spring bet. Hudson and Varick Streets, tkts are $8 for adults, and $1 for children and can be bought here: http://www.nycfiremuseum.org/shopsite_sc/index.html

A Very Murray little Christmas
From Murray Hill, "Murray Hill gives the much needed gift of holiday cheer and entertainment to Brooklyn with his legendary Yuletide tradition! Expect an evening of hilarious and wacky skits with the cast, a sleigh full of cheesy holiday songs, plenty of nuts, fruits and tree trimming. Murray also promises a few tender moments when he sings his signature "Have Yourself a Murray Little Christmas." Special recession prices!$15 - standing room only$25 - seated, general admissionand $50 - VIP! incl. reserved seating & a new Murray Hill t-shirt! Cheap Chick Tip: USE CODE: SNOWBIZ for $5 off advance tickets!

Flushing Historic Holiday House Tour
From Flushing Town Hall, "Catch a historic trolley at Flushing Town Hall, and set off on a tour of the Queens’ areas historic settlements. Visit the Kingsland Homestead, the Voelker Orth Museum, Quaker Meeting House and more, ending at the stately Louis H. Latimer House. Enjoy complete access to each stop on the tour, and munch on holiday refreshments to power you through the education and entertaining journey. 5 p.m., Flushing Town Hall,
127-35 Northern Boulevard, Cost: $10 for adults and free for children under the age of 12.

Santa Paws Holiday Party
Make the holidays a little less "ruff" this year with "a holiday pet party complete with Santa photo ops, treats and cuteness galore." 2 p.m. to 4p.m., Eventi Hotel, 851 Sixth Avenue, Chelsea, free!

A Christmas Carol by The Puppet People
From Brooklyn Lyceum, "Warm your hearts with Charles Dickens' holiday classic. Watch Mean Ol' Scrooge as he discovers Christmas is not a HUMBUG! This puppet spectacular features beautiful handcrafted marionettes, shadow puppets, gorgeous masks, lavish costumes, vivid sets, a professional soundtrack that includes many holiday favorites, a giant 9-foot parade puppet and guaranteed smiles! Experience this literary masterpiece that reaches far beyond the holiday season!" 3 p.m., 5 p.m., and 7 p.m., tkts are $10 or four for $30 and can be bought here: https://www.vendini.com/ticket-software.html?e=eb4182b2e6ebfb7abb0a715553968c85&t=tix

Sunday December 11 and Monday December 12, 2011
Annual Holiday Songbook
From the NYPL, "A concert of new holiday music by Broadway composers and lyricists, sung by Broadway vocalists. Presented by Arts and Artists at St. Paul, directed by John Znidarsic." Sun., at 2:30 p.m., Mon., at 6 p.m., NYPL for the Performing Arts, 40 Lincoln Center Plaza, near 66th and B'way, free!

Tuesday December 13, 2011
New York Philharmonic rehearsal of Handel’s Messiah
See a dress rehearsal f or Handel’s Messiah! Avery Fisher Hall at Lincoln Center, 9:45 a.m., $18 (+$2 online and phone ticketing orders)!

Brooklyn Christmas Spectacular and Holiday Treat Bake-off!
From the Bell House, “A night of music, skits, readings, merriment and good holiday cheer! Music by Zach Williams the Bellow with Brian Elmquist, Tricia Ivy and more! Stories by Caleb Clardy, Kristen Ball, Harlan Alford, Kevin Doyle, Justin Street and many others! A holiday dessert bake off! Bring your best baked good to share (categories and prizes for best gluten free treats, best traditional dessert, most original offering and best in show.)” 8 p.m. doors/8:30 p.m. show, The Bell House, 149 7th Street, Brooklyn

Wednesday December 14, 2011
History of Christmas Traditions!
Learn all this holiday has to offer with the Brooklyn Brainery tonight! 6:30-8pm, Brooklyn Brainery, 515 Court Street, $10! http://brooklynbrainery.com/courses/249-history-of-christmas-traditions

Lit mag Awkward Holiday Party
From Housing Works, “There’s a grand tradition of celebrating the holiday season at an awkward office party. Wait, what’s that? You’re a lit mag and you don’t have an office? Or you do, but you’d like to double up on this year’s festivities with more than those same five people you see every day? Either way, Slice magazine and Housing Works Bookstore Cafe cordially invite you to the 2011 Awkward Office Lit Mag Party. There will be a gift exchange! There will be Sixpoint beer!” 7 p.m., Housing Works Bookstore, 126 Crosby Street, pricing info to come!

Morningside Heights Winter Celebration and Tree Lighting
Join us to celebrate holiday traditions and help us light the Morningside Park holiday tree. Free refreshments will be served. 4:30 p.m.–5:30 p.m., North Lawn (in Morningside Park), Manhattan, Inside the lower level of the park at 121st Street, near Morningside Ave, free!

Thursday December 15, 2011
Brooklyn Youth Chorus Holiday Concert
The Brooklyn Youth Chorus will perform at the World Financial Center Winter Garden with soprano Harolyn Blackwell for a special holiday concert featuring the world premiere of a new Ricky Ian Gordon work based on a Langston Hughes poem, and several new holiday arrangements by long time BYC friend and collaborator Joel Martin.7:30 p.m., World Financial Center Winter Garden, 220 Vesey Street, free!

Friday December 16, 2011
Peace Tree Dedication, St. John the Divine
From the St. John the Divine website, “The students from The Cathedral School will be put up their annual Mitten Tree and join in the holiday celebrations…” 11 a.m., St. John the Divine, 112th and Broadway, free!

Secret Santa Ukelele Cabaret
Get your uke on at this holiday-themed ukelele party! 8 p.m. to 11 p.m., Jimmy’s No. 43, 43 E. 2nd Street bet. Second and Third Avenues, free!

15th Annual Holiday on the Hudson
From Chelsea Piers, “FREE but ticketed skating show featuring special guests The Skyliners (#1 junior synchro team in the world), the Central Park Synchro Team, and the Gotham City Synchro. Group performers include the Tiny Tot Stars and Junior Prep Competitors.” 7 p.m. Chelsea Piers, Sky Rink East Rink, Free, but tkts are limited to two per person and are available at the Sky Rink Front Desk beginning November 26, 2011.

Winter Choral Concert
From NYU, “Mark your calendar for this annual Winter Choral Concert presented by Music and Performing Arts at NYU Steinhardt. 7:30 p.m., Frederick Loewe Theatre, 35 West Fourth Street, For more information and ticket reservations, please call 212.352.3101 or visit the NYU Ticket Central Website. Cost is $10 general; $5 students and seniors.

Saturday December 17, 2011
Prospect Park Christmas Bird Count
From Prospect Park, “Join a tradition over 100 years in the making! The Christmas Bird Count is a nationwide bird census that helps conservation researchers track the long-term health of bird populations. Groups will meet at the Audubon Center at the Boathouse at noon and at 3 p.m. to take part in the count. You do not need to register in advance to join us on the Christmas Bird Count, so come along!” Free!

In the Spirit of the Season: A Holiday Church Tour
Join Urban Oyster for a seasonal tour of Brooklyn’s oldest German-Catholic Church. You’ll also learn about the German roots of the Santa Claus story and other holiday traditions. Afterward, you can unwind with dessert and coffee. 1 p.m. Urban Oyster Walking Tours (347-618-8687, urbanoyster.com). Meet at Most Holy Trinity–St. Mary, 138 Montrose Ave between Graham and Manhattan Aves, Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Also Jan 7, 2011, $20, reservations required.

Harry Potter Yule Ball
Grab on to that Portkey, because as Professor McGonagall would say it’s time for some “well-mannered frivolity” at the Harry Potter Yule Ball! There will be performances by Harry and the Potters, Draco and the Malfoys, the Potter Puppet Pals, Big Digits and MC Kreacher, and the Terror Pigeon Dance Revolt! Doors open at 5p.m., Bell House, 149 7th Street, Brooklyn, tkts are $18 and can be bought here: http://www.ticketweb.com/t3/sale/SaleEventDetail?dispatch=loadSelectionData&eventId=4035895&pl=bellpl

12 Bars of Christmas Bar Crawl
Get your liquid courage on before the family arrives! Take a bar tour of the East or West Village (groups will join together at the 12th bar) with a festive Santa hat, and a commemorative beer mug! Each bar will provide drink specials for the group! Donations of $25 in advance or $30 at the door benefit the Food Bank of New York! For more info and tkts, go here: http://www.12barsnyc.com/

Unsilent Night
Get jiggy with the holidays by parading from Washington Square Park to Tompkins Square Park jamming with your boom box! Participants are strongly encouraged to bring their own boom boxes though there will be a limited number of boomboxes passed out to those who don't have them. There will also be a limited number of and cassettes and CD’s for those who bring their own players. 7 p.m. (participants are encouraged to arrive at 6:45 p.m., Arch at Washington Square Park, 5 Ave, Waverly Pl., W. 4 St. and Macdougal St., free!

Cantori Holiday Concert
From the website, "Get in the spirit with Cantori's annual concert of traditional holiday favorites." 5:30 p.m., St. Luke-in-the-Fields, 487 Hudson Street, cost: $15!

December 17-28, 2011
Lettuce Rejoice Holiday Show
Catch NY drag queen Hedda Lettuce as she lampoons the holidays with classics such as, “Here Comes Tranny Clause,” “Sleigh Ride,” which turns into a gay man’s quest for sex on Grinder, and “Do You Hear What I Hear” is now, ‘Do You Think That He’s Queer,’ about a fag hag desperately seeking a sexual relationship with a gay man. Plus, a holiday homage to the recently departed Amy Winehouse. Too soon perhaps? Not for the sardonic Miss Lettuce.” The Metropolitan Room, 34 W. 22nd St between Fifth and Sixth Aves,). Dec 17, 18, 21, 23, 28 at 7p.m. $22 plus two-drink minimum.

Sunday December 18, 2011
Riverside Church Christmas Concert and Choral Festival
The two concerts will feature performances byThe Riverside Choir, Soloists, and Instrumentalists, The Riverside Chamber Singers, The Riverside Ringers, The Riverside Inspirational Choir, and The Children’s Choir! There are two performances, one at 3:30 p.m. and one at 6 p.m. Riverside Church, 490 Riverside Drive and 120th Street. Tkts are $10-$25, and can be purchased here: https://www.vendini.com/ticket-software.html?e=8fc4fb3e589ace9c1b6d3e6adf555d2c&t=tix

‘"Twas the Night Before Christmas" Reading
Ron Carter, jazz bassist and Grammy-winner, will be leading the 101st reading of TwasThe Night Before Christmas! After the reading, there will be a lantern procession to Trinity Cemetery and Mausoleum, where a wreath will be laid at the gravesite of Clement Clarke Moore (1779-1863), the son of Dr. Benjamin Moore, the sixth rector of Trinity Parish. In 1882, who wrote the story as a Christmas present for his six children. Church of the Intercession, 155th and Broadway, free and open to the public!

Lights in the Heights Bicycle Ride
Get your holiday lights on Brooklyn-style with Time’s Up Lights in the Heights Bike Ride in the crazy Christmas neighborhood, Dyker Heights! Manhattan: Meet across from the bicycle entrance to the Manhattan Bridge (northeast corner of Canal and Forsyth Sts), 4:30pm. Brooklyn: Meet at 3rd St and Prospect Park West, 5:15pm. Enjoy hot cocoa at Nathan’s when it’s all done! Free!

What the Dickens? Second Annual Marathon Reading of A Christmas Carol
Join writers and performers for a marathon reading of Charles Dickens's holiday classic, A Christmas Carol. 1 p.m. Housing Works Bookstore, 126 Crosby Street, free!

Scrooge & Marley
Become part of the story when Theater at Trinity presents its annual reading of Israel Horovitz’s adaptation of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol: Scrooge and Marley, a multi-generational event with audience participation! 1 p.m. St. Paul’s Chapel (Broadway at Fulton Street), free!

Cookie Takedown
From the Bell House, “Judge for yourself the 30 cookiezoidical inventions from local cooks at the Best Ever Cookie Takedown! $15 for all you can ravage! Wash the crumbs down with an hour of free eggnog from Bulleit Bourbon! 3 p.m., The Bell House, 149 7th Street, Brooklyn, $15!

The Muppet Vault: Christmas
Come help your favorite Muppets, Kermit, Miss Piggy, and Fozzie, celebrate Christmas! This event will feature a screening of the holiday special, "A Muppet Family Christmas," as well as other holiday-related clips! Plus there will be sing-aa-longs, giveaways, drink specials, and more! 2 p.m., Union Hall, 702 Union Street at Fifth Ave., cost: $8!

It's a Wonderful Life Act-a-thon
For those who've dreamed of being George Bailey, Clarence, or Zuzu, or perhaps if you've memorized the entire script, then here is a golden opportunity to live out your fantasy! At this special perfrmance, you'll have the chance to read one of the parts in this holiday classic! of course those with stage fright can come watch the show! 3;30 p.m. (holiday cheer) 4 p.m. (drawing of parts and show), Metropolitan Playhouse, 220A East Fourth Street, cost: $5 suggested donation!

"The Long Christmas Dinner"+Free Dinner
Brave New World Repetory is performing Thorton Wilder's one-act play, "The Long Christmas Dinner,which spans 90 years of the Bayard family history. In addition to the play, the troupe will actually be preparing a meal for their four audiences today before the show begins at The Old Stone House in Brooklyn, only catch is that you have to stand on-line at noon to get a dinner voucher-and they're only for the person in-line, so no tkts for friends-they have to get their own! But both the dinner and the play are free! Old Stone House, Washington Park /JJ Byrne Playground, 5th Ave. at 3rd St., More details and showtimes are here: http://bravenewworldrep.org/current-season/

Sunday December 18 and Monday December 19, 2011
Holiday concert at the Guggenheim
George Steel conducts the Vox Vocal Ensemble and the Graham Ashton Brass Ensemble. The Museum will close at 5:45 pm and re-open at 6:30 pm for the free holiday concert, Guggenheim Museum, Fifth Avenue at 89th Street, free!

Wednesday December 21, 2011
Naked Girls Reading - A Christmas Carol
Check out a sexy burlesque reading of the classic holiday tale! 9 p.m., Under St. Marks, 94 St. Marks Pl. East Village, tkts are $20 or two for $35 and can be bought here: http://www.nakedgirlsreadingnyc.blogspot.com/

Wednesday December 21-Tuesday December 27, 2011
It’s a Wonderful Life screening at IFC Center
Are those rose petals in your pocket or are you just happy to see me? Find out at IFC’s screening of the holiday classic, It’s a Wonderful Life. Mary Owen, Donna Reed’s daughter, will be in-person at select shows. Check IFC website for showtimes: http://www.ifccenter.com/films/its-a-wonderful-life/

Thursday December 22, 2011
Martinis and Mistletoe -An Evening of Live Jazz and Burlesque for the Holidays
"Live Music fromThe Brian Newman QuintetMichael & MardieShelly "The Singing Siren" Watson and Diamond Redd. Burlesque performance byAngie Pontani, Dirty Martini, The Maine Attraction, Helen Pontani, Harvest Moon, and The World Famous Pontani Sisters! This is a general admission event. Seating is limited and available on a first come, first seated basis. There is a two item minimum per person at all tables. Standing room is also available. It's recommend that you arrive early. 7 p.m. Show starts at 8p.m., Le Poisson Rouge, 158 Bleecker Street, 18+, tkts are $20 general admission, $30 VIP, and can be bought here: https://secure.gigmaven.com/events/7253/orders/new

Thursday December 22 and 23 and 29 and 30th
Nutcracker Rated R
From the show website, "Nutcracker: Rated R cracks open the heart of the classic children’s ballet to uncover drugs, sex, family secrets and all the other delights that make the Holidays so special." 7 p.m. and 11 p.m., LePoisson Rouge, 158 Bleecker Street, tkts are $20-$30, and can be bought here: http://lepoissonrouge.com/events/search?q=nutcrack

Friday December 23, 2011
A Motown Christmas featuring Dr. K’s Motown Revue!
Doors open at 6 p.m., showtime is at 8 p.m., BB King’s, tkts are $20 in advance, $25 the day of show! Tkts can be bought here: http://www.ticketmaster.com/event/00004752DE6AC123?artistid=1476678&majorcatid=10001&minorcatid=52

Ugly Sweater Jam
Wear your tackiest holiday sweater, we're talking glitter, dogs, Santa in his sleigh, snowmen, reindeer, candy canes, and bows here, people, so you can drink for free at Turtle Bay! 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. open bar, 9 p.m. to 11 p.m. 1/2-price drinks! Turtle Bay, 287 2nd Avenue, near 52nd Street, free!

Midnight Screening of A Christmas Story
Since you can't see this holiday classic on cable enough times mock Ralphie's pink pajama bunny outfit in good company during this late-night screening! Plenty of food and drinks will be available! Midnight, Nitehawk Cinema, 136 Metropolitan Avenue between Berry and Wythe Streets in Williamsburg. tkts are $11 and can be purchased here: http://www.nitehawkcinema.com/movie.php?movie=84

Saturday December 24, 2011-Happy Christmas Eve!
Grand Central Holiday Walking Tour
Join the Municipal Arts Society for their holiday tour of Grand Central Terminal. From MAS, “Come December, the terminal is especially attractive, with special exhibits, a holiday fair and festive lighting. Learn some of Grand Central’s secrets as we take you on an in-depth look at its art, architecture, engineering and $200 million restoration. Highlights include the “whispering” gallery and the site of a private apartment.” Led by Joe Svehlak, architectural historian. 11:00 a.m. Meet near the information booth in the middle of the main concourse. Cost: $15, $10 MAS members. Pay at tour.

Christmas Eve Caroling in Washington Square Park
Get ready to belt out those holiday tunes! The Rob Susman Brass Quartet will lead singers in holiday favorites. The Washington Square Association will provide complimentary songbooks. 5 p.m., Meet by the arch in Washington Square Park, free!

Save Christmas With a Night of Dirty Songs
Come get down and dirty at Christmas time with "as Time Out New York so eloquently put it, at a collection of songs that would make your grandmother blush clap and dance with delight.special guests who you’ll recognize from The Late Show with David Letterman, Last Comic Standing, Late Night with Conan O'Brien, and Comedy Central, 9 p.m., Joe's Pub, 425 Lafayette Street, tkts are $15 and can be bought here: http://clicks.fanbridge.com/l.php?cid=794646&sid=169218529&url=http://bit.ly/vvF7vI

Special Holiday Edition of Le Bingo
NYC's favorite drag queen Linda Simpsin hosts a special hliday-themed night of Le Bingo! Doors Open at 7 p.m., show starts at 7:30 p.m., Le Poisson Rouge, 158 Bleecker Street, free admission, but Bingo cards are $2 each!

Christmas Stroll in Greenwich Village
Learn about New York's unique role in our modern-day Christmas festivities with Big Onion Walking Tours! From Big Onion, "We will talk about the role of German immigrants and the Christmas tree; New York artists and the contemporary image of Santa Claus; and the patron saint of New Amsterdam. Other stops on our tour could include: the “hanging elm," the Stonewall Inn, Chumley’s, and sites associated with Stanford White, Aaron Burr, Edith Wharton, John Sloan, and Tom Paine. This special holiday tour will conclude with a visit to St. Luke-in-the-Fields Chapel for a group reading of Clement Clark Moore’s “A Visit from St. Nicholas.” 1 p.m., meet at the northeast corner of Christopher Street and Seventh Avenue South, in front of Duplex. This a poular tour, and Big Onion does not take reservations, but will have additional tour guides to split attendees into smaller groups, cost: $18!


And The Museum of the City of New York is open today!

Sunday December 25, 2011-Merry Christmas!
Christmas in New York City
Open Attractions:
Empire State Building (365 days)
Top of the Rock and most of Rockefeller Center (365 days)
Ground Zero Memorial - 9:00 am - 8:00 pm
Madame Tussauds Wax Museum (365 days)
CitySights New York City Bus Tours
Times Square - Hershey's Store, M&M Store, Hard Rock Cafe and more.
Central Park - Zoo, Carousel, Wollman Ice Skating Rink
CSI: The Experience! at Discovery Center

DJ Rekha's Bollywood Disco Xmas with Rajstar
DJ Rekha presents Bollywood Disco Xmas. From retro film classics to eclectic disco grooves, DJ Rekha digs through her digital and actual crates, 10 p.m., Le Poisson Rouge, 158 Bleecker Street, cost: $12 in advance, $15 at the door!

December 26, 2011-Happy Boxing Day!
Black Hawk-Football (European-style!) and Free Bangers and Mash!
Pretend you're on the other side of the pond and celebrate by watching an entire day Premier League soccer matches and scarf down the free bangers and mash the bar is providing after 2 p.m., Black Horse Pub, 568 5th Ave (at 16th St), Brooklyn, free!

December 26-28, 2011-Happy Boxing Day!
Holiday Open House at the Queens County Farm Museum
Check out the farm museum’s Victorian-stle holiday decorations as you sip mulled cider. There will also be opportunities for winter -themed craft-making as well! Spend an afternoon drinking mulled cider and touring the grounds of the city’s oldest working historical farm. The house will be decked out in period decorations from its Victorian Era roots, and you can join the young’uns to in making winter-themed crafts. Noon-4 p.m., Queens County Farm Museum, 73-50 Little Neck Pkwy, Floral Park, Queens. free!

Plus NY Mag’s Guide to the best Christmas Cookies in the City
http://nymag.com/guides/holidays/christmas-cookies/

And tips for a green-friendly holiday season!
http://www.ecologycenter.org/factsheets/holiday_tips.html


Cheap Chick Cheap Tip: Through December 31, 2011: Get free admission to the Bronx Zoo, The Central Park Zoo, the Queens Zoo, The Prospect Park Zoo, and The New York Aquarium, when you bring a new, unwrapped toy or 10 nonperishable food items to these places.