Saturday, 12/17
Holiday Hike and Bonfire
@ Oakwoods Nature Center
As the weather gets increasingly nippy, the chances to go outside and take in nature get slimmer and slimmer. Luckily, the Oakwoods Nature Center has that in mind. On December 17th, visitors have the chance to hike the nature trail with other guests. Once you’re sufficiently hiked out, there will be cookies, cocoa, and a roaring fire to warm up at as you recoup from all of that activity. Event starts at 6 p.m.; 28700 Oakwoods Rd., Flat Rock; metroparks.com; Tickets are $6.
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Saturday, 12/17
Holiday Hootenanny 2016
@ Robin Hills Farm
Robin Hills Farm, dedicated to sustainable farming, eco-farming, education, and family fun, is hosting their annual Holiday Hootenanny for yet another year. The event will feature a roaring barn dance (and a quick square dancing lesson for beginners). You don’t need a partner or any experience to have a great time dosey-doeing for the holidays. There’s also going to be farm tours, and a Holiday Marketplace to purchase those last minute gifts. Yeehaw!
Event starts at 2 p.m.; 20390, Stockbridge, Chelsea Rd., Chelsea; robinhillsfarm.com; Admission is $20 per family, $10 for adults, and $5 for kids three and up.
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Sunday, 12/18
Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker
@ The Fox Theatre
There’s just something about seeing Tchaikovsky’s masterpiece, The Nutcracker, performed by classical Russian dancers. Since their first US tour in 1993, the Moscow Ballet has brought the classic story of Herr Drosselmeyer, Maria-Clara, the Nutcracker Prince, and the Land of Sweets to life for American audiences in a way that is incomparable. The show features beautiful sets, intricate costumes, and impeccably graceful dancers. This is a performance that you don’t want to miss. Shows at 12 p.m., 4 p.m., and 8 p.m.; 2211 Woodward Ave., Detroit; ticketmaster.com; Tickets $28-$98.
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Tuesday, 12/20-Saturday, 12/24 A Christmas Story, The Musical
@ The Fox Theatre
Everybody knows A Christmas Story. It’s on TBS all Christmas Day, for Christ’s Sake. What people haven’t seen is A Christmas Story, The Musical. It’s the same story of Ralphie, his family, and his desperate longing for his very own Red Ryder BB Gun. There will be major awards, f---- words, and Christmas duck that will delight audience members. You, much like Ralphie’s little brother, will not be able to put your arms down -- from clapping! Shows start 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m; 2211 Woodward Ave., Detroit; olympiaentertainment.com; Tickets are $31.50 - $61.50.
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Tuesday, 12/27
Menorah in the ‘D
@ Campus Martius
Everybody knows about the Campus Martius Tree Lighting, but the Menorah in the ‘D lighting is just as good of a time. The day starts with the Jewish Family Festival, which will feature Hanukkah crafts, fire jugglers, Dance, Dance Revolution, face painting, and the chance to pose with Tigers’ mascot Paws as well as the Dreidel Mascot. Food will be available for purchase from the food court, but hot apple cider and snacks will be served for free! Event starts at 3 p.m.; 800 Woodward Ave., Detroit; menorahinthed.com.