Top 5 Weekend Events For Families: White Christmas, The Nutcracker “Sweet” & More

Christmas in Richmond is a magical time, with so many great things to do with the whole family! From the West End tradition of Glorious Christmas Nights at West End Assembly of God to White Christmas at the Barksdale Theatre, plus a “sweet” take on The Nutcracker at Deep Run High School, there’s lots going […]

December 10, 2010; 10:44 AM • by Carissa Garabedian

Our family events contributor Carissa Garabedian has the full rundown of all the great family-friendly activities this weekend.

For an amazing list of dozens more, be sure to check out our family events contributor Carissa Garabedian’s website, Macaroni Kid of Richmond.

1. Glorious Christmas Nights

Friday, December 10 through Sunday, December 12

The children’s letters have been particularly distressing to Santa this year — too much materialism and greed. The more he reads, the more disillusioned he becomes. When Santa refuses to make his Christmas Eve around-the-world flight, Mrs. Claus and his elf friends pull out all the stops in some zany attempts to rally Santa from his depression. Finally, confronted with the simplicity of one child’s unselfish Christmas wish, Santa realizes his attitude has been tarnished by circumstances and people around him. As Santa’s faith is restored through reaffirming his purpose in life, the mystery behind the greedy letters is revealed.

Who: All
When: 7:00 PM (show times vary)
Where: West End Assembly Of God – 401 North Parham Road
How: See website www.gloriouschristmasnights.com
Cost: $18

2. Irving Berlin’s White Christmas

Friday, December 10 through Saturday, January 9

Broadway’s Patti D’Beck (Guys and Dolls, Thoroughly Modern Millie) is BACK to help Barksdale deck the halls of the historic Empire Theatre with this beloved reinvention of the classic film—guaranteeing Richmond an extravagant holiday treat of unforgettable song and dance. Suggested for ages 10+.

Who: Ages 10 +
When: 7:00 PM (times vary for shows)
Where: Empire Theatre – 114 West Broad Street
How: Tickets.com charges a small fee. Or Call (804) 282-2620
Cost: Single Tickets: Adults $46, Seniors (65+) $43, Youth (18 & under) $19

3. The Nutcracker Sweet

Saturday, December 11 through Sunday, December 12

West End Academy of Dance presents this great family show. After the show there will be a meet the characters at a “sweets party”

Who: All
When: 2:00 PM
Where: Deep Run High School – 4801 Twin Hickory Rd
How: Call (804) 740-0842 or go to www.westendacadamy.com
Cost: $10-$15

4. Visions of Gingerbread Showcase

Saturday, December 11 through Saturday, December 18

Gingerbread creations galore! Created by area chefs and on display for all to see!

Who: All
When: 10:00 AM
Where: C-MOR Central – 2626 West Broad Street
How: Just go!
Cost: These will be on display in the lobby so there is no charge to see

5. Meadow Farm Museum Ornament Making

Sunday, December 12

Make a beautiful Victorian ornament while listening to Christmas Stories.

Who: All
When: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Where: Meadow Farm Museum – 3400 Mountain Road
How: www.henricorecandparks.com
Cost: FREE

6. BONUS – Tacky Byrd Tour

Thursday, December 16

Visit the William Byrd Community House for the Tacky Byrd Tour- a family friendly tacky light tour around downtown Richmond. Each night 3 buses will run a 2 hour loop beginning at 7:00 pm. Friday and Saturday there will be an additional tour at 9:00 pm. All proceeds go towards the WBCH. Each bus can hold 15-20 people and can be rented out to a group for $300 total.