Charlotte Parent Magazine Dec 2017

December 2017 • Free

H

the Y O L I DA ISSUE

PARTY GAMES to ring in the New Year

Holiday Experiences in the Queen City

23 Gift Ideas

for Every Kid on Your List

+ Performances

and Parades

NO MORE WHINING!

Tips to nip the backtalk

Start with us. Stay with us.

Mecklenburg Area Catholic Schools

Schedule A Tour Today!

St. Ann (PK, TK, K-5) stanncatholic.org

St. Gabriel (K-5)

PK, TK, K-5 Programs

stgabrielcatholicschool.org

St. Mark (K-8)

stmarkcatholicschool.net

Faith & Service iPads & Technology STEM & Robotics Broadcast Journalism Spanish Fine Arts Athletics

St. Matthew (TK-5) stmattwildcats.com

St. Patrick (K-5)

saintpatrickschool.org

Our Lady of the Assumption (PK-8) olacatholic.org

*Financial aid available discovermacs

For information on all schools PK-12, visit discovermacs.org 704.370.3273

W E 0 17 N 2 R O F

Friday and Saturday nights November 24–25, December 1–2, 8–9, 15–16, 22–23, 29–30 Park open 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

tweetsie.com

300 Tweetsie Railroad Lane, Blowing Rock, NC 877-TWEETSIE (877-893-3874)

2018 SEASON PASSES ON SALE NOW

WE’RE ALL DIFFERENT. WE’RE ALL THE SAME. When we need healing, we all want the same thing: expert care, tailored to our unique situation. Because when it comes to healthcare, everyone deserves the best.

CONTENT › DECEMBER 2017

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The 2017 Holiday Gift Guide Our gift picks for babies and toddlers, young artists, tech lovers and sports fanatics

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12 Must-Do Holiday Experiences Fill their holidays with memorable experiences at these festivities

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Ring in the New Year With Family Try these games at your New Year’s Eve party that bring kids and adults together

14 IN EVERY ISSUE 4 7 11 12 26 39 40

Editor's Note FYI Growing Up Tech Talk Excursion Daddy Derek Faces and Places

CALENDAR 27 Our Picks 28 Daily Calendar 30 On Stage 34 Holiday Happenings 38 Tree Lightings and Parades

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19 charlotteparent.com | DECEMBER 2017

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EDITOR’S NOTE

Celebrating the Season

A

s a kid, the holiday season did indeed seem like the most wonderful time of the year, but as an adult with kids and a full-time work schedule, it feels like the busiest season of the year. Between the usual routine of school, work and sports practices, — which is plenty of busy — you add in shopping, the Elf, Santa, making cookies, going to school and church performances, family gatherings and holiday parties. It’s all loads of fun, but why do we wait until one season between Thanksgiving and the start of a new year to do all these wonderful things? The same can be said of giving gifts. I once had a friend give me a gift just because. It was thoughtful. She commented on how she believes you should give a gift anytime, especially if it’s something that you think will really delight the person on the receiving end. That sentiment has stuck with me.

This is our holiday issue, and because we know that schedules are filling up fast, we hope it can help as you shop, plan and schedule. With gift giving in mind, we have put together a list of 24 gift ideas for kids of all ages, including babies and toddlers, art lovers, tech kids and sports fans. Children usually have no trouble making their wish lists, but these gift ideas may spark some inspiration for something new or different, and might be helpful if grandma and grandpa, or an aunt who lives far away, asks for gift ideas.

From four different area ice-skating rinks to holiday light displays that dazzle, plus parades and performances, this issue is chock-full of holiday experiences that can make lasting family memories. The feature “12 Very Merry Holiday Experiences” (page 19) highlights local holiday hotspots, and also can serve as a handy guide for mapping and planning your holiday excursions. But like Derek James reminds us in his column on page 39, you don’t have to do it all!

If you’re planning a New Year’s Eve party with the kids, we have ideas for family party games that entertain young and old (page 22).

Here’s wishing you and yours the happiest of holiday s, and one that you hopefully can find time to enjoy simply being together as a family — at home, in your pajamas, sipping cider and enjoying one of those cookies you made.

HAVE IDEAS TO SHARE? Email editor@charlotteparent.com.

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EDITOR

Michele Huggins

CALENDAR EDITOR Addie Gottwald

ART DIRECTOR Melissa Stutts

DIGITAL DIRECTOR

Allison Hollins • allison.hollins@morris.com

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Myra Wright • mwright@carolinaparent.com

SALES TEAM LEADER • MEDIA CONSULTANT Leslie Hatheway • lhatheway@charlotteparent.com

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CONTACT US charlotteparent.com 214 W. Tremont Ave., Suite 302, Charlotte, NC 28203 phone: 704-344-1980 • fax: 704-344-1983 email: info@charlotteparent.com advertising@charlotteparent.com Circulation 35,000. Distribution of this magazine does not constitute an endorsement of information, products or services. Charlotte Parent reserves the right to reject any advertisement or listing that is not in keeping with the publication’s standards. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.

A Publication of the Visitor Publications Division of Morris Communications Company, L.L.C. 725 Broad St., Augusta, GA 30901 Chairman President & CEO William S. Morris III William S. Morris IV

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DECEMBER 2017 | charlotteparent.com

WHAT’S NEW AT …

charlotteparent.com Best Bets Curious about where your family should go for can’t-miss experiences in Charlotte? From where to indulge in the best cupcakes to the top places to hike with the kids, see our picks for the best of the best. …/blogs.

… /blogs

Where’s Santa?

Jolly ‘ole Saint Nick is busy this time of year. Find out where he’s having breakfast, sipping cocoa and snapping pictures with the kids.

… /thingstodo

Win Tickets to Monster Jam Feld Entertainment’s Monster Jam rolls into Spectrum Center Jan. 5 and 6, 2018. Win a family four pack of tickets to see eight larger-than-life trucks battle it out to see who

LOOKING FOR LOCAL

will go home a champion.

… /contests

EDUCATION RESOURCES? Find local tutors, academic support, foreign language and homeschool resources in our Education Resources Directory.

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charlotteparent.com.com/educationresources charlotteparent.com | DECEMBER 2017

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Bring your friends and family together to celebrate the beauty of the Holiday season!

The Garden glows with holiday spirit from the twinkling trees to the sparkling fountains and is transformed into a natural winter wonderland filled with unique festive dĂŠcor including a towering tree of orchids, more than 600,000 lights, and illuminated displays.

PRESENTING SPONSORS

SUPPORTING SPONSOR

MEDIA SPONSOR

Purchase Tickets in Advance at www.DSBG.org 6500 South New Hope Road Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-4490

❱ FYI

Winter Break Camps Take the N.C. State Parks 100-Mile Challenge North Carolina State Parks is encouraging North Carolinians to get out and be active hiking, biking, walking, running, paddling, skating or even riding horses in its 100-Mile Challenge. The program aims to showcase the state’s natural trails and waterways, including nearly 1,500 miles of hiking trails across the state and more than 660 established miles of the Mountains to Sea State Trail.

Recreational activities on state trails and in state parks range from common pastimes like hiking, paddling and biking to horseback riding, swimming and birding. The challenge offers a new way to set goals for exercise outdoors for a broad range of activities.

Outdoor enthusiasts and beginners alike are encouraged to sign up for the program at nc100miles.org. Users can keep track of their miles as they progress toward the 100-mile goal and earn digital badges along the way as they explore state parks, participate in events and reach mileage targets. Participants can also earn prizes at 100, 200 and 1,000 miles logged. More information and upcoming state park events are available at nc100miles.org.

Top 10 Preschooler-Approved Toys The Goddard School hosted its annual Preschooler-Approved Toy Test at 50 Goddard Schools across the country, including the Goddard School of Charlotte in Ballantyne. The toy test is an annual initiative that engages children from infants to 6 years old to play with interactive toys while teachers observe and document how the toys rate among the following judging criteria: interactivity, skill development, creative inspiration and more. After lots of playtime and careful observation, the children cast their votes to determine the Top 10 Preschooler-Approved Toys. The 2017 winners are: 1. VTech Lil’ Critters Shake and Wobble Busy Ball (Ages 3-24 months).

2. Fat Brain Toys Oombee Cube (Ages 10+ months).

3. SMARTMAX My First Safari Animals (Ages 1-5).

4. Peaceable Kingdom Monkey Around The Wiggle and Giggle Game (Ages 2+).

5. VTech Go! Go! Smart Wheels Race & Play Adventure Park (Ages 1–5).

6. K’NEX Kid K’nex Budding Builder Set (Ages 3+).

7. Melissa & Doug Star Diner Restaurant Play Set (Ages 3+).

8. Learning Resources Lil’ Lemonade StandOff A Memory Matching Game (Ages 4+).

9. DuneCraft Bucket of Balls (Ages 4+).

10. Learning Resources Let’s Go Code! Activity Set (Ages 5+).

If you’re looking for ways to fill the days of your child’s winter break, consider a camp experience.

FOR THE RISING STAR: A one-day, mini-camp at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte includes story telling, drama, art and music. Grades K-5. $70 per mini-camp. ctcharlotte.org.

FOR THE ASPIRING CHEF: Kids who like to cook can make pink cocoa and Merry Macaroni, and use some math and science skills at Flour Power Studios cooking camps.

Three- and five-day camps are offered for ages 5-8 and 9-12. $199$299. flourpowerstudios.com.

FOR THE ANIMAL LOVER: Carolina Raptor Center in Huntersville is hosting a one-day Young Vets camp for children ages 11-14 to get a behind-the-scenes look at bird rehabilitation. Other camps are also offered for ages 7-11. $30-$35 per day. carolinaraptorcenter.org.

FOR TUMBLERS: Perfect Balance Training Center is a gymnastics gymnasium that offers campers a place to flip, roll, jump and tumble the day away. Half- and full-day options. Ages 5-12. $45$85 with advanced registration. perfectbalancecharlotte.com.

charlotteparent.com | DECEMBER 2017

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FYI

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education

What do Teachers Want?

Wondering what to give the person who is an integral part of your child’s village? Here are a few ideas for gifts we think will make a teacher’s day. And remember: A special note of thanks is always appreciated.

Cannon School sophomore Amelia Wyatt reads her book “Ozzie and the Island” to a group of lower school students at Cannon School.

Photo by Amy Reiss

Local High School Student Publishes Children’s Book “Ozzie and the Island” Amelia Wyatt, a sophomore at Cannon School, is a published author with the debut of her children’s book “Ozzie and the Island.” The book, recommended for ages 3-8, follows a lonely young bird named Ozzie on a journey to a new place where he is unable to fully communicate with the people he encounters. Wyatt, the daughter of a first-generation immigrant, wrote and illustrated the book. Her inspiration came from

CLASSROOM RESTOCK Many teachers have classroom wish lists on Amazon.

Shop the list or give them a gift card that can be used to buy something for their class or a special little something that has nothing to do with class. Gift cards to Target or Walmart also work.

TEACHER TREATS Give a gift certificate for a movie, a manicure or a latte.

Gift certificates for personal treats make any person feel pampered. Package the card with some extra items that relate to the service to make a theme package.

DONATE YOUR TIME Volunteer time to help in the classroom tutoring or doing whatever the teacher needs.

Hands-on help is always welcome, just be sure to follow up on your holiday promise and schedule time to help.

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working with students at La Escuelita, a bilingual, half-day preschool program serving Latino children, where she has involved herself helping to cook, read and play with the children. Full-color illustrations and lively animal characters grab the attention of young readers. Text is written in English and Spanish that allows young readers and their parents to easily switch between the two languages.

“I wanted these kids to be able to see their own story in a children’s book,” Wyatt says. “I believe that a familiar narrative will help assure them that while being new somewhere can definitely be scary, just one small gesture of kindness can make a huge difference.” All profits from the book support La Escuelita. Find it on Amazon and at local booksellers. $15.95, Lorimer Press.

Dolly Parton Imagination Library Expansion Provides Books for 20,000 More Children in Mecklenburg County Smart Start of Mecklenburg and NoDa Brewing Company are helping to put books in the hands of more children with the expansion of the Dolly Parton Imagination Library. Any family that lives in Mecklenburg County with a child 4 or younger is eligible to enroll in the program that delivers books to participants’ homes within four to six weeks after enrollment. Books continue to arrive until a child turns 5. Dolly Parton Imagination Library has supported 2,800 children in Mecklenburg County since 2015 through private financial support. During the 2017 legislative session, N.C. state lawmakers included more than $10 million over the course of two years to the Smart Start network to expand the Dolly Parton Imagination Library statewide, including an additional 20,000 children in Mecklenburg County. NoDa Brewing Company, a financial supporter since 2015, is funding the 672 existing children enrolled in the program that live in the same two shared zip codes as NoDa Brewing Company locations. Anyone can support a child as part of the program.

For $30, a child receives books for an entire year. Learn more at smartstartofmeck.org/programs/dpil.

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DECEMBER 2017 | charlotteparent.com

of parents would be extremely or very likely to support their teen’s interest in becoming an entrepreneur as an adult. Only 30 percent of teens share that same enthusiasm for starting a business.

Source: Junior Achievement and EY Research

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FYI

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health

Amazon’s Alexa Connects Patients to Doctors Carolinas HealthCare System patients can now use Amazon’s electronic personal assistant Alexa to locate the nearest urgent care and emergency room, and get current wait times. Once a patient enables the Carolinas HealthCare System skill on Alexa, they simply can say, “Alexa, use Carolinas HealthCare to find the closest urgent care or hospital.” Alexa responds with the closest Carolinas HealthCare System location and estimated wait time. Patients can then reserve their spot at one of Carolinas HealthCare System’s 28 urgent care locations via the Carolinas HealthCare app on their tablet or smartphone, or log on to carolinashealthcare.org/urgentcare. Similar capabilities are in the works for Google’s personal assistant, Google Assistant, in the near future.

Unwrap the Gift of Toy Safety

Don’t let the holidays drain you all of your energy. Check in with yourself to make sure you don’t overextend your time.

The biggest threat to the health of children older than 1 year is not disease, but accidental injury. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, each year thousands of children suffer injuries from toys that are severe enough to be treated in a hospital emergency room. Dr. Rebecca Santos, a pediatrician with Novant Health Pediatrics South End, shared these guidelines to help keep the holiday season safe for your youngsters.

• Avoid toys that shoot or have parts that can fly.

• Choose toys made of durable materials with no sharp edges or points.

• Don’t give young children toys with small parts. Toddlers tend to put things in their mouths, increasing the risk of choking.

• Choose age-appropriate toys. Age labeling is provided for developmental and safety reasons.

• To avoid serious ear injury, don’t buy toys that make loud or shrill noise.

• Choose well-made stuffed animals.

Eyes, noses, and other small parts should be securely fastened.

• Inspect older toys for broken or sharp edges, loose parts, and loose strings or ribbons.

• Look for the letters ASTM. These indicate that a toy or product meets the national safety standards set by the American Society for Testing and Materials.

Surviving the Holiday Mental Overload The holidays create a disruption in household routines, which can cause stress and anxiety with the family unit as a whole. Mental exhaustion occurs due to the accumulation of too many things, such as too many demands, emotional stressors and family obligations. Some symptoms of exhaustion can include chest pain, shortness of breath and headaches. Exhaustion also increases your chances of getting an illness, such as colds and flu. Decide early on what you will attend and what to skip, says Bea Moise, a parenting coach and board certified cognitive specialist at Southeast Psych. It is entirely OK not to attend everything you are invited to. Making a holiday to-do list can also give you a sense of control. Writing down items and then crossing them off can provide a sense of accomplishment, she says. Try to take time to maintain an active physical routine and be mindful of your diet. Get a good night’s sleep, slow down and enjoy the holiday season. It will be over as fast as it arrived. charlotteparent.com | DECEMBER 2017

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FYI

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people

Kat Eckles with her husband Landon and their five children. Photo by Allison Hinman

Get to Know: Kat Eckles

BY MICHELE HUGGINS

K

at Eckles, 31, co-owns Clean Juice with her husband Landon Eckles, 32. Together they have five children: Mckenna Eckles, 10; Kellan Eckles, 9; Kora Eckles, 4; Haven Eckles, 3; and Ellis Eckles who is 9 months old.

Where do you live in Charlotte and where did you grow up? We live in (and love) the Lake Norman area. We moved from outside Philadelphia in August of 2014.

Tell us about your job. What do you like most about it? What are the challenges? My husband and I founded and run Clean Juice, a certified organic juice bar franchise. My husband serves as the chief executive officer, and I serve as the chief visionary officer. My favorite thing about it is getting to work closely with my husband to innovate, lead and strategize. We have the most amazing team of people that make coming in to work every day seem like fun.

The dynamic of going from spouses to co-workers has been a learning process.

Luckily, we both truly respect each other’s strengths as they relate to what we can do for Clean Juice, so there has been a naturally positive working relationship.

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What’s the hardest part of juggling family life and work life? I think the hardest part for us has been turning it off when we get home at night. We are constantly throwing ideas off each other and wanting to work through problems from the day. We’ve had to learn that our kids need our undivided attention so they don’t learn to resent Clean Juice.

We try to take dinner and bedtime as a protected part of our day where we are truly being intentional with our kids.

What is your favorite thing about raising a family in Charlotte?

We absolutely love everything about Charlotte. We love our church —Elevation — and we love going out on Lake Norman on the weekends. We also love what a young, entrepreneurial city Charlotte is. The people of the community really embrace fresh ideas and support people that are following their dreams, which is very different from other cities up North that we have lived in.

Best advice ever received: You can’t get A’s across the board all the time.

Some days you are going to feel like you are killing it at work, but really dropped the ball as a mom. Sometimes you will be the most fun and loving mom on the block, but you feel like your friendships are becoming distant. Sometimes you feel like your friendships are strong, but you’ve had takeout three times that week and re-washed the clothes in the washer more than once. You have to learn to give yourself grace and learn when to delegate more attention to certain areas.

Proudest parenting moment: It’s hard to pick just one, but I would have to say when my older two kids made the decision to be baptized. Our faith is the backbone of our lives. Seeing our kids make the choice to follow Jesus was such a significant moment for me.

Lowest parenting moment: I think any moment that you feel as if you let your kids down feels pretty low, so it is hard to pick just one. Every once in awhile, we will get somewhere and one of my kids has forgotten their shoes, so that is always pretty humbling.

Name three things you can’t live without: Coffee, purple shampoo and Tabasco sauce.

Name your favorite Instagram account: @eatworkplayclt Last book read: “Steve Jobs” by Walter Isaacson.

What inspires you? I love people who effectively use 24 hours in a day.

Watching people use their talents and gifts to their maximum ability, especially to make the lives of others better, is always beyond inspiring to me.

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GROWING UP

How to handle whining, talking back and other annoying forms of ‘kid speak’

inquire about how she did on the test. Her eyes roll to the ceiling and she retorts, “Um, how do you think?” before flouncing to her room and slamming the door. Disrespect often appears during elementary school as tweens begin to chafe at authority, test boundaries and try out new social personas. Just because it’s normal doesn’t mean parents should let it go unchecked, Mazor says.

“At this age, children are trying to grasp for some control in their lives,” she says. “Back talk is often an indicator of feeling disrespected, unheard and powerless.” It may also be a signal that parents should do more listening and less talking themselves. Mazor recommends holding family meetings to help tweens feel heard, building respectful communication skills through negotiation and taking turns, and encouraging teens to advocate for what they feel are fair rules and consequences.

BY MALIA JACOBSON

Teen Years

Whine of the Times

S

cience has proven what parents already know: Whining is the most annoying sound on earth. A recent study published in the journal Evolutionary Biology found that when compared to other forms of speech, including baby talk, whining was uniquely distracting, causing listeners to tune in to the whining at the expense of other tasks. Another study from the State University of New York at New Paltz found that whining was more distracting to people attempting to solve a simple math problem than the sound of a table saw. Then there’s back talk, whining’s older and even more irritating sibling. While managing these frustrating utterances is a part of parenting, here are age-by-age tips to help dial down distracting and disrespectful communications.

Early Years

Whine Time Whining is tough to ignore for a reason.

According to a study by Evolutionary Biology, it serves an evolutionary purpose, attracting a primary caregiver’s attention just as a child leaves babyhood. In other words, it’s a way to attract babying once a child no longer requires it. That’s also why whining peaks at ages 3 and 4, and why it’s so often directed at a child’s primary caregiver. How should parents and caregivers respond to this cringe-inducing but biologically normal behavior?

First, remember that whining tots aren’t necessarily being disobedient, says Talya Mazor, a licensed school social worker at

Triangle Counseling in Chapel Hill.

“It’s easy to think that children are being uncooperative when they’re really just acting their age,” Mazor says. “Good behavior is encouraged through positive parenting strategies, such as developing strong and affectionate parent-child relationships, offering descriptive praise and giving attention to positive behavior.”

Elementary Years

Sounding Off You’re waiting at home for your fifth-grader to step off the school bus, eager to hear about her big test that day. After she’s arrived home and shed her backpack and coat, you gently

School Rules While younger children often reserve their most irritating whining and back talk for their parents, teens might act out toward a teacher or authority figure as a way to appear tough in front of peers. While parents may be shocked to hear that their formerly angelic child told a teacher to “blank off” (you fill in the blank), it’s important to keep a level head, Mazor says. Support the school’s disciplinary plan and don’t double punish, doling out additional consequences at home. Grounding your teen for mouthing off at school is redundant if a punishment was already given at school. Instead, allow the situation’s logical consequences to deliver the lesson. For example, when a teen displays a bad attitude toward a teacher, that teacher is less likely to grant the teen an extension on homework.

Parents should also model appropriate behavior. For example, don’t bad-mouth your child’s teachers or shirk the school’s rules, even if they are rules that you don’t happen to like.

This parental self-discipline demonstrates to teens that there are some rules we all need to follow, like it or not.

Malia Jacobson is an award-winning health and parenting journalist and mom of three. charlotteparent.com | DECEMBER 2017

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TECH TALK

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Tech Gifts for People Who Truly Need Them

BY CAROLYN JABS

T

hese days, holiday gift-giving is all about gadgets — smartphones, educational toys and smart devices. Not all children, however, have easy, early access to the digital world. Instead, we face what’s often been called a digital divide. If you’re looking for a way to share with people who have less this holiday season, it’s worth thinking beyond warm mittens and turkey dinners.

Donate Money for Technology The simplest way to get technology into the hands of kids who wouldn’t otherwise have it is to make financial donations to well-run organizations, such as these: • One Laptop Per Child strives to put a low-cost computer into the hands of every child. The laptops weigh less than a lunchbox and come with software that allows children to read, write, record, measure and make music. one.laptop.org.

• The Rural Technology Fund, founded by a tech executive who had limited access to computers while growing up in rural Kentucky, provides equipment to out-of-theway schools to ignite a “spark” for studying electronics, programming or engineering. It also gives scholarships to students in rural communities hoping to pursue technology careers. ruraltechfund.org.

Adopt a Classroom Public schools provide another way to give kids access to technology. Teachers know what

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devices make a difference in their classrooms, and playing Santa can be very rewarding.

• Your school district. Find out what technology needs teachers have at your child’s school and consider reaching out to another school experiencing challenges.

• DonorsChoose.org allows teachers to explain how they would use specific pieces of equipment and makes it possible for donors to search by location or curriculum. In many cases, a modest donation puts current technology in the hands of teachers who are eager to use it with their students. donorschoose.org.

Donate Equipment or Time If family members get tech gifts during the holidays, you may end up with used equipment you can donate. Donating your time also makes a difference.

• The Non-Profit Locator helps donors identify local organizations that can benefit from your used equipment. Enter a zip code to get a list of local agencies and

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detailed information about equipment needs. donatetechnology.com.

Child’s Play delivers video games to children’s hospitals and shelters for kids who have experienced domestic violence. A map on the charity’s website shows organizations within its network.

Each group has an Amazon wish list. childsplaycharity.org.

Code.org hopes to make computer science a standard part of the curriculum, just like biology or chemistry. The organization provides lesson plans for grades K-12, runs an annual Hour of Code campaign and actively recruits volunteers to help with the Hour of Code. code.org/volunteer/guide.

Community Corp identifies volunteer opportunities for people with technical expertise. Its search engine allows you to find virtual or in-person projects in a variety of areas. thecommunitycorps.org.

Set Up Passive Donations Perhaps the easiest way to support charities is registering with a site that makes a microdonation every time you do something simple, like searching or shopping online.

• Goodsearch.com is a search engine powered by Yahoo that makes a tiny donation to a chosen charity each time you search, which can add up. Sister site GoodShop (goodsearch.com/goodshop) makes it easy to donate a fraction of every online purchase to good causes. goodsearch.com.

• Giving Assistant is a coupon marketplace offering discounts from retailers like Best Buy, Kohl’s, and Bed Bath and Beyond.

A percentage of what you save goes to a charity you designate. givingassistant.org.

Whatever you decide to do, involve your kids as much as possible. Encouraging them to imagine life without their beloved devices may very well be the gateway to a lifelong habit of empathy and generosity.

Carolyn Jabs is the author of “Cooperative Wisdom: Bringing People Together When Things Fall Apart,” available at Amazon and cooperativewisdom.org.

2017 Holiday

Gift Guide

BY ADDIE GOTTWALD

hether it’s a present for a toddler, a child who loves all things sports, a young artist or tech-loving preteen, our annual gift guide has you covered. From a modernized Barbie Hello Dreamhouse featuring sounds and working lights, to high-tech scooters with LED lights, here are 23 gifts to guide you on your holiday toy shopping journey.

(Note: Not all toys are pictured.)

BABY AND TODDLER 1. Stroller and Crib Toys from Babee Talk These organic, hypoallergenic, eco-friendly toys attach to strollers, high chairs, cribs or mobiles and encourage your little one to reach and grab. The attachment straps also make the toys harder to lose. Prices start at $13.99. babeetalk.com 2. Fisher-Price Laugh and Learn Smart Stages Chair Ages 6 months-3 years Help teach your child his or her ABC’s, numbers, shapes and more with the help of this chair with Smart Stages technology that plays songs, phrases and sounds, and can be set for different developmental stages.

Available for $39.97. fisher-price.com 3. Manhattan Toy Winkel Rattle and Sensory Teether Toy Ages 0-2 Babies who are teething can find some relief with the gentle texture of this teething toy. It can also be chilled to offer cool, soothing relief for sore gums. $15. manhattantoy.com

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4. Funtime Activity Turtle Ages 1+ Flashing lights, rotating gears, large buttons and sound effects captivate toddlers' senses, and the ability to pull the turtle along helps develop hand-eye coordination and reactionary skills. $29.99. tlji.com

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5. Luvabella Doll Ages 3+ Luvabella moves, talks and plays just like a real baby, offering realistic facial expressions, giggles and babbles. Hold her feet and she’ll say “Mama.” Tickle her and she’ll laugh.

Spoon-feed her and lull her to sleep with her bottle. Available in different skin tones. $99.99. spinmaster.com

SPORTS 6. Prevelo Bikes Ages 1.5-11 Lightweight and low-to-the-ground, these bikes are safe and fun for beginners. They also feature short-reach alloy brake levers, small diameter grips and quick seat-height adjustment. $199-$899. prevelobikes.com

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7. Jetson Jupiter Scooter With LED Lights Ages 5+ This scooter has over 100 multi-colored LED lights on the handlebar stem, wheels and deck, plus a rear fender foot brake that ensures a secure stop and a folding mechanism that makes it easy to store. $29.99. target.com 8. FINIS Mermaid Fin Ages 6+ Swim like a mermaid with this fin that has a foot strap and strategically placed vents that allow for faster gliding and graceful motion in the water. $31.99. finisswim.com 9. Air Jordan Retro Basketball Shoes Ages 8+ Air Jordan retro basketball shoes are back!

Browse Nike’s website to see the different color and style options. Children’s styles start at $85. store.nike.com

Touch app to bring sculptures to life on your computer screen with digital character stampers. $39.99. hasbro.com 14. Oonies Mega Starter Pack Ages 5+ Using the Oonie inflator, go crazy making three-dimensional designs with these air-filled balls that stick to each another without glue or water. The starter pack is available for $29.99. toysrus.com 15. DabitZ Learner Dab Desk Set Ages 6+ This art kit includes templates called DabDesignZ and a free app that transforms any picture into a template. Use the “Dabbers” drawing tools to dab color into the template for cool, pixel pictures. $49.99. dabitzart.com

10. Kryptonics 24-Inch Mini Cruiser Skateboard With Light-Up Wheels Ages 8+ Light-up wheels make this skateboard more than the average board. Available in red and yellow designs. Found exclusively at Toys R Us. $39.99. toysrus.com

16. Crayola Fashion Super Star Ages 8+ Mix and match over a thousand combinations of dresses, tops and skirts to build your own virtual closet. Using the free app, upload designs, enter fashion challenges and get feedback from other designers. The kit includes a 62-page design book, 24 colored pencils, 18 markers and a designer case. $19.99. crayola.com

11. Razor Hovertrax 2.0 Self-Balancing Electric Scooter Ages 8+ Branded as the world’s smartest self-balancing electric scooter, it features auto-levels, allowing for a safer, easier mount and smoother ride.

The board is available in a variety of colors. $449. razor.com

17. Sculptapalooza Ages 10+ Sculpt to win with this game that has two teams take turns drawing cards and sculpting what they see with Playfoam. Things get interesting when participants must sculpt with their eyes closed or use their creation as a charade prop. $39.99. amazon.com

ART

TECHNOLOGY

12. Customizable Crayon Set Ages 3+ These customizable crayon sets are made from recycled crayons. Spell out your child’s name for a memorable holiday gift. Prices start at $10.95. art2theextreme.com

18. furReal Roarin’ Tyler, the Playful Tiger Ages 4+ Make some noise at this interactive tiger toy and he will roar back. Talk to Tyler and he will respond. Pet his head and he will close his eyes. Tyler features more than 100 sound-andmotion combinations. $129.99. hasbro.com

13. Play-Doh Touch Shape to Life Studio Ages 3+ Use molds to shape Play-Doh creations, then scan your creations into the Play-Doh

19. Fingerlings Ages 5+ These stocking stuffer-sized monkey toys

feature motion sensors on their heads, which allow them to interact with your child. They can make 40-plus sounds, open and close their eyes, and move their heads. Blow them a kiss and they will make a smooching sound. Clap and they’ll sing to you. A built-in huggable grip allows them to cling to fingers and pens. $14.99. fingerlings.wowwee.com 20. Barbie Hello Dreamhouse Ages 6+ This two-story smart home has built-in technology that recognizes more than 100 voice commands to direct the house to turn lights on and off, make sounds, open doors and more. The operating elevator, crackling fireplace, working oven light and spinning chandelier make the house even homier.

Available for $299.99. barbie.mattel.com 21. Dromida KODO FPV Drone Ages 8+ This drone combines a love of flying electronics with a first-person viewer experience. Connect your smartphone to the Wi-Fi camera on the drone and use the goggles to see what your drone is flying atop of — or mount your smartphone on the 2.4GHz radio’s transmitter holder. $89.99. dromida.com 22. DIY Gamer Electronic Kit Age 12+ Beginning coders can use this kit to create their own game. Learn about the Arduino platform using the video manuals and step-by-step instructions. Buy a separate soldering iron and use it to create different results. Price starts at $99.99. techwillsaveus.com 23. HP Sprocket Photo Printer Ages 12+ Print two-by-three-inch photos directly from a smartphone or tablet. The printer also offers options to customize prints with fun text, borders and emojis. $135. hp.com Addie Gottwald lives in the South End section of Charlotte and looks forward to going on a toy shopping spree for her 2-year-old niece. charlotteparent.com carolinaparent.com | DECEMBER 2017

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12 Very Merry Holiday Experiences COMPILED BY MICHELE HUGGINS

H

oliday merriment is around every corner throughout the month of December. From a whole-town light display to a winter ice rink under the uptown lights, singing bears and the classic “Nutcracker” ballet, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this holiday season.

Pack up the cookies and hot chocolate and head out for one — or all 12 — of these merry holiday experiences.

1. Go Ice Skating Finding a place to ice skate is easier than ever this holiday season with four outdoor ice-skating rinks open for the season. WBT and K107.9 The Link bring the annual Holiday on Ice skating rink to the heart of uptown again.

Located at the NASCAR Hall of Fame Plaza, the rink is open through Jan. 7, 2018. Special events include Princess Day on Dec. 3, and a special Date Night on Dec. 9. Admission is $10 for all-day skating, and

skate rentals are $4. Standard hours are Wednesday through Friday, 5-10 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m., and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. weekdays when CharlotteMecklenburg Schools are out. holidayonicecharlotte.com.

New this year is Winter Wonderland, located between Symphony Park and SouthPark Mall. The 5,000 square-foot ice-skating rink features holiday lights and décor, as well as attractions like Santa’s Pub and a coffee shop, live music, special

guests and activities throughout the season, including live country music artists every Friday night.

Winter Wonderland is open through Jan. 8, 2018. Find hours and special event information at winterwonderlandsouthpark.com.

Rock Hill also has its very own outdoor ice-skating rink.

The Founders Holiday Ice Rink, located just across from Fountain Park on Saluda Street in Rock Hill, is open through Jan. 15, 2018. Admission is $10 and includes skate rentals. Every Wednesday is

Lace up your skates and glide aross the ice at Founders Holiday Ice Rink in Rock Hill through Jan. 15, 2018. Three other outdoor rinks are open throughout the season, including Holiday on Ice uptown, The Ice Rink in Concord and Winter Wonderland at SouthPark’s Symphony Park. Above photos by Mike Baker

buy one, get one skate passes. onlyinoldtown.com.

The Ice Park at Concord Mills also has an outdoor skating rink open through Jan. 15, 2018.

Tickets are $12 and includes skates. thespeedpark.com.

2. Take a Winter Garden Walk Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden’s winter wonderland Holiday Lights at the Garden includes more than 600,000 lights and illuminated displays of twinkling trees and sparkling fountains,

charlotteparent.com | DECEMBER 2017

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Clockwise from top: WinterFest debuts this year at Carowinds and includes wandering performers and dazzling on-stage performances. Ride the carousel and Ferris wheel at ChristmasVille, Nov. 30-Dec. 2, in Rock Hill, S.C. Charlotte Ballet presents its annual performances of “Nutcracker” at Belk Theater, Dec. 9-23. Photos courtesy of Carowinds, Mike Baker and Todd Rosenberg

plus displays of model trains by Metrolina Model Railway. The event is open daily from 5-9 p.m. through Dec. 31, but closed Christmas Day. Find activities just for kids along the Children’s Holiday Discovery Trail and enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides. Mrs. Claus visits from Nov. 27-29, Dec. 4-6, 11-13 and 18-24 from 6 to 8 p.m. Tickets are $8.95-$14.95, and free for members and children age 2 and younger. dsbg.org.

3. Ride a Ferris Wheel Four days of holiday festivities await at ChristmasVille in Old Town Rock Hill, Nov. 30-Dec. 3. Come for the parade, carriage rides, carolers, kids’ crafts, festive foods, gingerbread house contest and, of course, visits with Santa.

Then stick around for the Ferris wheel, Lego creation contest, a rock-climbing wall and iceskating rink. ChristmasVille is free to enter, but some events do charge for participation.

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christmasvillerockhill.com.

4. See a Singing Christmas Tree A Charlotte classic for more than 60 years, the Singing Christmas Tree is a specially designed 32foot “tree” filled with members of Carolina Voices. The Singing Christmas Tree for Kids is an hour-long version of The Singing Christmas Tree. Members of the Carolina Voices choir are joined by Grey Seal Puppets, dancers from Miller Street Dance Academy, the Friendship Missionary Baptist Church Choir, Carolina Kids’ Voices Choir and Santa. Recommended for children ages 3-10. Two performances are planned: Dec. 9 at 11 a.m. and Dec. 10 at 1:30 p.m. Tickets are $15-$22. carolinavoices.org.

5. Talk a Walk on Gingerbread Lane A display of whimsical confectionary edifices created by local professional chefs, amateurs and kids are on display for the annual competition at the Ballantyne

DECEMBER 2017 | charlotteparent.com

Hotel Dec. 7-27. Admission is free, but for $1 attendees may vote on their favorite gingerbread house creation.

All proceeds from the voting benefits Levine Children’s Hospital.

6. Drive the Track at Charlotte Motor Speedway Ease onto the Charlotte Motor Speedway for a 3.5-mile loop around the track to see more than 3 million lights synced to music. Speedway Christmas is open daily 6-10 p.m. through Dec. 31. The Christmas Village, which includes a petting zoo, a Bethlehem village, photos with Santa, is open ThursdaySunday through Dec. 31 from 6-10 p.m., and every evening Christmas week. Add in a drivein movie experience Thursday through Sunday with the FOX 46 Movie Nights on the giant Speedway TV. See the website for movie schedule. Tickets range in price from $20-$30 per car depending on day of week. charlottemotorspeedway.com/ tickets/speedway-christmas.

7. Take a Carriage Ride Take a horse-drawn carriage

ride through light displays at Billy Graham Library, Dec. 1-23. There is also a live nativity that includes shepherds, a camel, donkey, lambs and other animals, and special Christmas story times on the Billy Graham Library patio. Carriage rides are available Monday-Thursday from 5 to 9 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 5 to 10 p.m.

Carriage rides are $8 for adults, $4 for kids. The nativity and story times are free of charge.

Visit between noon and 2 p.m. for a chance to pet the nativity animals. Visiting the library is free and parking is free. billygrahamlibrary.org.

8. See the Singing Bears The display of well-dressed animatronic bears perform classic holiday songs at Founders Hall in the Bank of America Corporate Center Nov. 27-Dec. 28. The 45-minute performances are free and include timehonored holiday classics, such as “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” “Santa Claus is Coming to Town” and “We Wish You A Merry Christmas.”

Performances run daily from 10 a.m. until 8 p.m. every hour

on the hour. Performances are subject to cancellation. Check the Leonard Bearstein Bears Facebook page for updates. foundershall.com.

9. Ride a Rollercoaster Carowinds is transforming into a magical winter wonderland this holiday season with a 70-foot Christmas tree, lavish holiday displays and performances, wandering performers, and 5 million lights decorating the state line between North and South Carolina. Kids also can make cookies with Mrs. Claus.

The most exciting part for kids, however, may be the 16 rides that are open for a winter thrill.

Winterfest is open Friday- Sunday through Dec. 30, plus daily Dec. 18-21 and Dec. 26-28 from 5-10 p.m. Tickets start at $25.

10. Drive Through Christmas Town USA For more than 60 years, the town of McAdenville, located in Gaston County, has glowed with holiday lights that attract national attention and countless visitors.

The display has grown from a few trees around McAdenville Lake to more than 375 live trees, 200 wreaths and a 46-foot wide image of Old Man Winter blowing snowflakes over the lake.

This year, the festivities kick off with a tree-lighting ceremony Dec. 1 and continue each night until Dec. 26. The lights glow Monday through Friday, 5.30-9:30 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday, 5:30-11 p.m.. The 2-mile route is drivable or you can walk. There’s no admission fee either way, but be prepared to wait in traffic, especially on weekend nights. mcadenville-christmastown.com

11. See “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical” The most popular show of all time at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte is back. This musical comedy, adapted from Barbara Robinson’s classic story, follows the Herdman kids —”the worst kids ever” — who decide they want to be in the Christmas pageant after hearing there are free snacks at Sunday School.

Hilarity follows as the Herdmans put their twists to the traditional Christmas pageant plans.

Performances are scheduled Friday through Sunday, Nov. 24-Dec. 23. Tickets start at $12.

Recommended for ages 4 and older. ctcharlotte.org.

12. Have a Family Date at “Nutcracker” Charlotte Ballet presents the classic “Nutcracker” story of Clara and the battle between the Mouse and the Nutcracker at Blumenthal Performing Arts Center’s Belk Theater Dec. 9-23. The Charlotte Ballet “Nutcracker” premiered with vibrant new sets and costumes in 2016, and includes a snowfall, jumping candy canes and the iconic Sugar Plum Fairy. Other dance schools in the area also have “Nutcracker” performances scheduled, including Charlotte Youth Ballet that performs its “Nutcracker” Dec. 1 and 2 at Halton Theater. Find more performances at charlottparent. com/calendar. charlotteballet. org and charlotteyouthballet.org.

Find more holiday happenings at charlotteparent.com/ calendar.

The Speech Garden Institute Developing speech, language and social skills.

Communication & Sensory Preschool and Summer Camp

www.speechgarden.org

PLANNING A

FAMILY GETAWAY? charlotteparent.com/daytrips charlotteparent.com | DECEMBER 2017

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RING IN THE NEW YEAR WITH FAMILYFRIENDLY

Party Games

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DECEMBER 2017 | charlotteparent.com

BY PAM MOLNAR

A

re you including the kids in your New Year’s celebration this year? For most of us, that means we bring the kids to the party, but send them off to play with friends while we mingle with ours. It’s like having two separate parties under the same roof.

This year, bring the two parties together with laughter and entertainment for all ages.

These eight family-friendly games will help you get it started.

TABLET. Tablet is like the old game Telephone, but for today’s world. Write down an object and an action (like a monkey climbing a tree) on an index card. Using a dry erase board, the first person picks a card and draws a picture based on what he reads. He then shows the picture to the person next to him without letting anyone else see the picture. That person will erase the board and write what he thinks was drawn. He will then pass it to the third person who will draw what he reads. This continues around the circle until it gets back to the first person.

THE HUMAN KNOT. Everyone stands in a circle and puts both their hands out, grabbing a random hand from someone else. While not letting go of anyone’s hand, try to untangle the group. For less of a challenge, try using just one hand.

DOUBLES. Ask every guest to bring two small, wrapped gifts. This can either be white elephant or dollar store items.

Pile all the gifts in the center of the table. Everyone sits around the table and rolls a pair of dice, trying to get doubles. If they get doubles, they choose a gift from the center. If not, they pass the

dice to the next person. If you are playing with younger children, you might want to limit the amount of gifts each person may get.

THE BALLOON GAME. Write down funny actions, tasks or riddles on slips of paper. Roll up and insert into balloons.

You will need two balloons for each person as you need to tie one to each person’s ankles. On “go,” everyone tries to stomp and pop a balloon.

If your balloon is popped, you have to read the riddle, do the task or perform the funny action. This game is guaranteed to keep everyone hopping.

THE SILENT SNOWMAN. This is a game that goes on all night. Make a snowman out of paper or felt. Attach two sided tape or removable adhesive putty on the back of the snowman. One person starts out with the snowman on his back. As the night goes on, someone tries to steal the snowman and put it on their back. The person left wearing the snowman at midnight gets a prize.

AULD LANG SYNE SCRABBLE. Write the words to this popular New Year’s Eve song on separate index cards. (You will need two

sets). Break your guests into two teams. On go, ask the teams to put the words in the correct order. The first one to get it correct wins. For a real challenge, do both verses. For a variation, use the words to a current Top 40 song that the kids know.

LINE UP BLIND. Break your group into teams. Blindfold one of the teams and have them stand in the middle of the room. Now, ask the team to line themselves up in order — alphabetically, by height, by age, etc. The team not blindfolded can tell them if they are correct or not, but cannot say why. When they are in the correct order, the teams switch places.

CHERRY PIE. Place a maraschino cherry in a pie plate. Tell the guests the object is to pick up the cherry without using their hands and eat it. Alas, things are never as easy as they seem. Before the challenge begins, fill the plate with whipped cream. This is a great photo opportunity.

Pam Molnar is a freelance writer and mother of three.

Parties at their house include good food, lots of laughs, and of course, games. Check out more of Pam’s party games and ideas in her Etsy shop.

charlotteparent.com | DECEMBER 2017

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hooray

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Carowinds WinterFest Excitement fills the air at WinterFest, an all-new holiday celebration at Carowinds. Guests will be immersed in the season’s spirit- over 5 million spectacular lights, holiday décor, live entertainment, culinary treats, and fanciful experiences throughout the park. Experience the holidays like never before. Tickets as low as $25 at carowinds.com

Winter Lights at The N.C. Arboretum Experience Winter Lights, Asheville’s brightest holiday tradition at The North Carolina Arboretum.

Walk through an outdoor winter wonderland and enjoy unique displays and landscapes composed of nearly 500,000 holiday lights. Open nightly Nov. 17 – Dec. 31 from 6 to 10 p.m. Purchase tickets at ncwinterlights.com.

N.C. Arboretum 100 Frederick Law Olmsted Way, Asheville 828-665-2492 ncwinterlights.com

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DECEMBER 2017 | charlotteparent.com

Hip Hop Nutcracker

A holiday mash-up for the entire family with emcee Kurtis Blow, The Hip Hop Nutcracker,

Carowinds 14523 Carowinds Blvd., Charlotte 704-588-2600 | carowinds.com

Founders Holiday Ice Rink A real outdoor ice rink, right in the heart of downtown Rock Hill! Perfect for family outings, date nights, and weekend fun! Open Nov. 17 – Jan.

a contemporary re-imagination of

15, 2018. Cost to skate: $10,

Tchaikovsky’s timeless music, sets out

includes skate rental.

on a third national tour following the success of two previous sold-out tours. Tickets start at just $19.99.

Knight Theater 430 S. Tryon St., Charlotte 704-372-1000 blumenthalarts.org

205 Saluda St., Rock Hill, S.C. 803-329-7094 onlyinoldtown.com/icerink

Charlotte Ballet’s “Nutcracker” Celebrate the sights and sounds of the holidays at “Nutcracker.”

Complete with choreography by Jean-Pierre Bonnefoux and music from the Charlotte Symphony, Nutcracker premiered with all new sets and costumes in 2016. Whether a treasured family tradition or you’re experiencing it for the first time, “Nutcracker” promises wonderful memories.

Belk Theater 130 N. Tryon St. | 704-372-1000 charlotteballet.org/nutcracker

Holidays at the Garden Bring your friends and family together to celebrate the beauty of the holiday season! Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden glows with holiday spirit from the twinkling trees to the sparkling fountains, and is transformed into a natural winter wonderland with a towering tree of orchids, more than 600,000 lights and illuminated displays.

Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden 6500 S. New Hope Road, Belmont 704-825-4490 dsbg.org

charlotteparent.com | DECEMBER 2017

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›

EXCURSION

At Home in Hendersonville Often overshadowed

by Asheville, its showier neighbor to the north, this charming western North Carolina town is a family destination in its own right.

BY ALEIGH ACERNI

Go on a “bear hunt” to find bear statues in downtown Hendersonville.

Photo courtesy of Henderson County Tourism Development Authority

K

nown for its mountaintop orchards, Hendersonville has been home to the annual North Carolina Apple Festival for more than 60 years and is the largest appleproducing county in the state. But there’s more to explore than apples in this charming town.

At 2,200 feet above sea level, changing leaves make Hendersonville a popular destination in the fall, although its sweeping mountain views are beautiful year-round. The town’s “Home for the Holidays” series of events makes December an ideal time to drop in for a spell, too.

Home for the Holidays Main Street shop owners go all out for the holidays in Hendersonville’s historic downtown, adorning shop and restaurant windows with decorations, hanging big red bows from streetlights and filling planters with twinkling lights. An ice-skating rink, carriage rides, holiday concerts, a Christmas parade and more holiday fun welcome natives and visitors alike.

Go on a Bear Hunt As it winds through a ridge of the Appalachian Mountains, downtown Hendersonville is also studded with a unique collection of whimsical bear statues. Called “Bearfootin’ in Hendersonville,” the statues are auctioned off each October. Visitors — and locals — enjoy going on a “bear hunt” to track down the statues. Pick up a bear map at the Hendersonville Visitor Center.

While you’re downtown, stop by Hands On!, an interactive children’s museum for ages 1-10. Kids can “shop” in a play grocery store,

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dress up and perform on stage or in the puppet theater, or scoop ice cream from behind the counter of a miniature Kilwins ice cream shop.

Admission is just $5, and the museum is open Tuesday through Saturday.

Learn About Land and Sky The western North Carolina mountains offer some of the best places to learn about gemstones, minerals and geology. Choose from a variety of gem mines, where you can buy a bag of dirt and use a screen and sluice to search for amethyst, emeralds, garnets, sapphires and rubies. Try Elijah Mountain Gem Mine, which features a covered outdoor sluice, plus an indoor sluice, so you can mine year-round.

Celebrate North Carolina’s “first in flight” bragging rights with an up-close look at vintage airplanes at the Western North Carolina Air Museum. Kids can climb into various vintage and replica antique planes, then wander outside to the runway, since the museum sits adjacent to an active airport. Weekend visitors might get a chance to see a vintage plane in action — and possibly even catch a ride.

Explore Art and Culture Nearby Flat Rock is home to Flat Rock Playhouse, which refers to itself as “The State Theatre of North Carolina.” Established in the 1940s, the playhouse offers a nine-month

DECEMBER 2017 | charlotteparent.com

season featuring Broadway musicals, comedy, drama and plays for young audiences. Recent family-friendly performances include “The Little Mermaid” and “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown.”

Across from the playhouse sits the Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site, which celebrates the Pulitzer Prize-winning poet, historian and author. Sandburg’s estate, Connemara, is managed by the National Parks Service, which offers guided tours of the house ($5 for ages 16-61, $3 for ages 62 and older; and free for ages 15 and younger). Connemara was built in 1838 and includes Sandburg’s massive collection of 12,000 books. The home has been preserved to look the same as when Sandburg lived there. The house is currently under restoration, so furnishings have been moved to storage until 2018. The 264-acre park also offers 5 miles of hiking trails, a farm with dairy goats and plenty of places to explore.

Hendersonville’s holiday spirit, agricultural roots and mountain charm make it a must-see town for North Carolina families interested in a relaxed, low-key day trip or weekend destination.

Aleigh Acerni is a freelance writer who lives in Charlotte with her husband and 3-year-old daughter.

December OUR PICKS

COMPILED BY ADDIE GOTTWALD Adam Savage of “Mythbusters” and Michael Stevens from the YouTube channel “Vsauce” present a night of interactive fun, Dec. 9 at Ovens Auditorium. Photo by Matt Christine Photography

WinterFest Select nights through Dec. 30.

This new seasonal event for Carowinds transforms the theme park into a magical winter wonderland filled with lavish holiday displays. See live performances and wandering performers, plus there are more than 15 rides available for a holiday spin. Open Fridays and Saturdays thorough Dec. 10, from 5 to 10 p.m., then daily Dec. 15-23 and Dec. 26-30 from 5 to 10 p.m. Carowinds, 14523 Carowinds Blvd. carowinds.com.

Mallstars Noon Year’s Eve Dec. 29 Let the young ones celebrate the start of 2018 early at Northlake Mall’s free Noon Year’s Eve. The free event includes games, arts and crafts and live music. When the clock strikes noon, balloons drop from the ceiling to ring in the new year. Free.

10:30 a.m.-noon. Northlake Mall, 6801 Northlake Mall Drive. shopnorthlake.com.

Brain Candy Live! | Dec. 9 Adam Savage, the former co-host of Discovery Channel series “MythBusters” and “Unchained Reaction,” and Michael Stevens, the star of the YouTube channel “Vsauce,” present a night of interactive fun for the family. The performance is filled with toys, tools and demonstrations that urge children to be curious. Smart is the new superpower and these entertainers are cooking up brain candy for the whole audience. Tickets start at $25. 8 p.m. Ovens Auditorium, 2700 Independence Blvd. blumenthalarts.org.

Dads, Football and Brews | Dec. 10 Come join Charlotte-area dads and dads-to-be for the Panthers versus Vikings football game. Moms and kids are welcome, too. There is even a designated kids play area, and alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks are available for purchase. This event, sponsored by Baby + Co and co-hosted with Charlotte Dads Group, has lots of giveaways, plus a raffle for the chance to win two tickets to the Panthers versus Packers game Dec. 17. Free admission. 1 p.m. Free Range Brewing, 2320 N. Davidson St. charlottedadsgroup.com.

Dads, Bags and Football happens Dec. 10 at Free Range Brewing. Photo courtesy of Baby+Co.

charlotteparent.com | DECEMBER 2017

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1 FRIDAY TGIF at McDowell. McDowell Nature Center, 15222 York Road. Ages 6-9. 4-5pm.

FREE. 980-314-1128. Enjoy nature-based educational activities and meet new friends.

Registration required. parkandrec.com.

The Polar Express Storytime. Barnes and Noble, Morrison Place, 4020 Sharon Road.

7pm. FREE. 704-364-0626. Come in your pajamas to hear a reading of “The Polar Express.” Coloring and activities to follow. stores.barnesandnoble.com.

On Stage: The Real Christmas Story; The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical; Charlotte Symphony Pops: Magic of Christmas; Robert Earl Keen’s “Merry Christmas from the Fam-o-lee” Show; Charlotte Youth Ballet Presents: The Nutcracker; Gaston Dance Theatre Presents: The Nutcracker; and It’s A Wonderful Life. See page 30.

2 SATURDAY #STEAMSaturdays: Programming and Robotics. Hygge Coworking West, 2128 Remount Road. Grades K-8. 9-10:30am. $25. 704-412-9147. Students in grades K-8 can build a hockey goalie and teach it to block pucks, or program a rolling droid.

Hosted by Digi-Bridge. Register online. digi-bridge.org.

Afton Ridge North Pole Fun. Afton Ridge Shopping Center, 6230 Bayfield Pkwy., Concord. 11am-2pm. Free. Visit with Santa, play in the Snow Zone, make reindeer food and Sandy Candy, visit with Rudolph and The Merry Christmas Tree. shopaftonridge.com.

A Golden Christmas. Reed Gold Mine State Historic Site, 9621 Reed Mine Road, Midland. 10am-4pm. FREE; $2 for hay ride. 704-721-4653. Enjoy holiday cheer with a touch of history. Activities include a hay ride, holiday crafts, a chance to view a variety of vintage and antique style holiday decorations, a Christmas Market with vendors and demonstrators, and candlelit mine tours. nchistoricsites.org.

Bank of America’s Museums on Us Day. Locations vary. FREE. Bank of America and Merrill Lynch cardholders can gain free access to participating museums, including The Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, Harvey B. Gantt Center for AfricanAmerican Arts + Culture, Levine Museum

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DECEMBER 2017 | charlotteparent.com

of the New South, Mint Museum Randolph, and Mint Museum Uptown. museums. bankofamerica.com.

Breakfast With Santa. Lincoln Cultural Center, 403 E. Main St., Lincolnton.

9am-12pm. $10 donation admits one child and two adults. 704-732-9055. Have breakfast with Santa, snap a picture and leave with a treat. Tickets may be bought in advance at the Lincoln Cultural Center. lincolnculturalcenter.org.

Breakfast With Santa/Ace and TJ’s Grin Kids. Rock Bottom Brewery, 401 N. Tryon St. 8-11:30am. $15. Enjoy a continental breakfast and one picture per family with Santa. Proceeds benefit Ace and TJ’s Grin Kids. Additional reprints or individual photos with Santa available for $5. Purchase tickets in advance. Time slots available every 30 minutes. grinkids. ejoinme.org.

Breakfast With Santa at Monroe Crossing. Monroe Crossing, 2115 W. Roosevelt Blvd., Monroe. Ages 10 and under.

8-10am. FREE. Chick-Fil-A will provide free breakfast to children 10 and under. Spend one-on-one time with Santa. Reservation required. shopmonroecrossing.com.

Build a Gingerbread House at Home Depot. Local Home Depot stores. 9am-noon.

FREE. Build and decorate a wooden gingerbread house. Kids get to keep their craft, receive a free certificate of achievement, a workshop apron and a commemorative pin (while supplies last). Check website for locations. homedepot.com.

Family Fun Nature Hike. McDowell Nature Center, 15222 York Road. Ages 7 and older.

10-11:30am. FREE. 980-314-1128. Go on a guided 2-3 mile hike to discover some of the natural flora and fauna while playing educational games. Registration required. parkandrec.com.

Girls On The Run North 5K. Concord Mills Mall, 8111 Concord Mills Blvd., Concord.

7:30-10:30am. $25-$35. Run, hop, skip or jump across the finish line at this familyfriendly, noncompetitive 5k where positive energy abounds. gotrcharlotte.org/5Ks. Holiday Trees for Wildlife. Wing Haven Gardens, 260 Ridgewood Ave. Ages 10 and under. 10am-noon. $15- $20. 704-3310664. Create edible ornaments for wildlife, go on a holiday scavenger hunt, listen to seasonal stories, make nature-based

› crafts and enjoy festive refreshments.

Space is limited; register in advance. winghavengardens.org.

How the Grinch Stole Christmas!

Storytime. Barnes and Noble, Morrison Place, 4020 Sharon Road. 11am. FREE. 704-364-0626. Listen to a reading of “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” followed by activities. stores.barnesandnoble.com.

Merit Badge Workshop. Discovery Place Science, 301 N. Tryon St. Ages 10-17. 12:454:45pm. $30. 704-372-6261. Boy scouts can work towards earning a Boy Scouts’ Chemistry Merit Badge. Register online. science.discoveryplace.org.

Monthly Bird Walk. Discovery Place Nature, 1658 Sterling Road. 10:15am. $8. 704-3736261. Take a walk around Freedom Park and the museum with an expert to discover the birds that that can be found in the area. nature.discoveryplace.org.

Photos With Santa. Rescue Ranch, 1424 Turnersburg Hwy., Statesville. 10am-5pm. $40. Have a chat with Santa and get your photo taken by a professional. Pets are welcome to join. Register online. rescueranch.com.

Rosedale Musical Christmas. Historic Rosedale Plantation, 3427 N. Tryon St. 11am-4pm. $10. 704-335-0325.

See Historic Rosedale decorated in its 19th-century holiday finest while listening to music that includes a harp, bagpipes, dulcimer, hand bells and a caroling troubadour. Snacks and beverages available for purchase. historicrosedale.org.

Santa’s Workshop at ChristmasVille.

Palmetto Room, 135 E. Main Street, Rock Hill. 10am-7pm. FREE. Visit Santa’s workshop to meet Santa, watch gnomes at work, do Christmas crafts, make reindeer feed, get their faces painted and more. christmasvillerockhill.com.

Story With Santa in the Garden.

Glencairn Garden, 725 Crest St., Rock Hill.

11:30am-12:30pm. FREE. 803-325-2571.

Children can hear Santa read “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer,” and then tell Santa what they want for Christmas. Hot chocolate and cookies served. Bring your camera for photos. christmasvillerockhill.com.

Teddy Bear Tea. The Billy Graham Library, 4330 Westmont Drive. Ages 5 and older.

2-3pm. $20 per child (no ticket needed for adults). Enjoy an afternoon of holiday = Santa Sighting Event

treats, festive entertainment and a plush stuffed animal to take home. Stick around for Christmas activities beginning at 5pm.

Space is limited; reserve tickets in advance. billygrahamlibrary.org.

On Stage: The Real Christmas Story; The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical; Charlotte Symphony Pops: Magic of Christmas; Charlotte Youth Ballet Presents: The Nutcracker; Gaston Dance Theatre Presents: The Nutcracker; It’s A Wonderful Life; Charlotte Symphony Lollipops: The Magic of Christmas; and Matthews Ballet and Dance Presents: The Nutcracker. See page 30.

3 SUNDAY Bank of America’s Museums on Us Day. Locations vary. FREE. Bank of America and Merrill Lynch cardholders can gain free access to participating museums, including The Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, Harvey B. Gantt Center for AfricanAmerican Arts + Culture, Levine Museum of the New South, Mint Museum Randolph, and Mint Museum Uptown. museums. bankofamerica.com.

Caring Santa at Concord Mills. Concord Mills at the Dining Pavilion, 8111 Concord Mills Blvd., Concord. 9-11am. FREE; additional cost for photos. Children and young adults with special needs and their families have the opportunity to visit with Santa and have photos taken. Registration required. eventbrite.com.

Caring Santa at SouthPark Mall.

SouthPark Mall, 4400 Sharon Road, West Plaza Entrance. 9-11am. FREE; additional cost for photos. This private event is designed for children and young adults with special needs and their families to have the opportunity to visit with Santa and have photos taken. Registration required. eventbrite.com.

Merit Badge Workshop. Discovery Place Science, 301 N. Tryon St. Ages 10-17. 12:304:45pm. $30. 704-372-6261. Boy scouts can work toward earning the Boy Scouts’ Electronics Merit Badge or Sustainability Merit Badge. Register online. science. discoveryplace.org.

Painting Rocks at McDowell. McDowell Nature Center, 15222 York Road. Ages 3

and older. 1:30-4:30pm. $5. 980-314-1128.

Painting and hiding “Kindness Rocks” is a national craze right now. Learn how to responsibly participate while remaining a good steward of our natural places.

Registration required. parkandrec.com.

Rosedale Musical Christmas. Historic Rosedale Plantation, 3427 N. Tryon St. 11am-4pm. $10. 704-335-0325.

See Historic Rosedale decorated in its 19th-century holiday finest while listening to music that includes a harp, bagpipes, dulcimer, hand bells and a caroling troubadour. Snacks and beverages available for purchase. historicrosedale.org.

Santa’s Workshop at ChristmasVille.

Palmetto Room, 135 E. Main Street, Rock Hill. Noon-4:30pm. FREE. Visit Santa’s workshop to meet Santa, watch gnomes at work, do Christmas crafts, make reindeer feed, and face painting. christmasvillerockhill.com.

Sensory Sensitive Sundays at Chuck E. Cheese. Charlotte and Concord locations.

9-11am. Free admission. The restaurant opens at a special early-morning time designed to cater to families of children with special needs, including reduced lighting and noise, food and games, and specially trained staff. chuckecheese.com.

Soothing Santa at Northlake Mall.

Northlake Mall, 6801 Northlake Mall Drive.

8:30-10:30am. FREE. Picture packages available for purchase. Families with special needs children can register for a sensoryfriendly visit with Santa in Tinsel Town. eventbrite.com.

Tea With the Sugar Plum Fairy. Gaston Day School, Performing Arts Center, 2001 Gaston Day School Road., Gastonia.

1-2:30pm. $10. 704-865-5943. Join costumed characters for tea, hot chocolate, treats and crafts before the 3pm showing of “The Nutcracker.” Get autographs and pictures too. gastondance.com.

On Stage: The Real Christmas Story; The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical; Charlotte Symphony Pops: Magic of Christmas; Charlotte Youth Ballet Presents: The Nutcracker; Gaston Dance Theatre Presents: The Nutcracker; It’s A Wonderful Life; and Matthews Ballet and Dance

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presents: The Nutcracker. See page 30.

4 MONDAY Baby and Me Storytime. Mooresville Public Library, 304 S. Main St., Mooresville. Age 1 and younger. 10-10:30am and 11-11:30am.

FREE. 704-664-2927. An interactive storytime that features board books, simple songs, movement activities, nursery rhymes and finger plays. mooresvillelibrary.org.

Pet Night at Carolina Place. Carolina Place, 11025 Carolina Place Pkwy., Pineville.

5-8pm. Photo packages costs vary. Bring your furry friends to Carolina Place to get a picture with Santa and the whole family. carolinaplace.com.

On Stage: The Real Christmas Story.

See page 30.

5 TUESDAY After School LEGO Club. Mooresville Public Library, 304 S. Main St., Mooresville. 6pm.

FREE. 704-664-2927. Children can use their imagination and STEM-based learning skills to create with LEGOs. mooresvillelibrary. org.

Baby and Me Storytime. Mooresville Public Library, Youth Services Community Room, 304 S. Main St., Mooresville. Age 1 and younger. 10-10:30am and 11-11:30am.

FREE. 704-664-2927. An interactive storytime that features board books, simple songs, movement activities, nursery rhymes and finger plays. mooresvillelibrary.org.

Holiday Campfire. Reedy Creek Nature Preserve, 2900 Rocky River Road. 1:303pm. FREE. 980-314-1119. Take a quick hike in the woods and then settle in next to a cozy fire. Roast chestnuts and sip on hot chocolate. Register online. parkandrec.com.

Pet Night With Santa. Monroe Crossing, 2115 W. Roosevelt Blvd., Monroe. 6-8pm.

Photos for purchase. 704-289-6547. Bring your pet to get a picture of the whole family with Santa, furry-friend included. shopmonroecrossing.com.

Signing Santa at Northlake Mall.

Northlake Mall, 6801 Northlake Mall Drive.

10am-noon. FREE. Additional cost for photos. Deaf and hard-of-hearing children can visit with a signing Santa on this special day.shopnorthlake.com.

Sky High Special Needs Jump Time.

Sky High Sports Charlotte, 601 N. Polk St.,

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See Charlotte Ballet perform “Nutcracker” on stage Dec. 9-23 at Belk Theater. Photo by Peter Zay

ON STAGE The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical.

(Through Dec. 23). Children’s Theatre of Charlotte, McColl Family Theatre, 300 E. 7th St. Tickets start at $12. 704-9732828. When the worst kids in the history of the world find out there are free snacks at Sunday School, they take it upon themselves to audition for the annual Christmas pageant.

Will a group of kids who have never even heard the story of Christmas ruin the show, and will any other kids bother to show up at the performance? Find out at this musical, based on the book by Barbara Robinson. Check website for showtimes. Sensory-friendly show, Dec. 11, and an ASL interpreted performance on Dec. 17. ctcharlotte.org.

The Real Christmas Story. (Through Dec. 21). The NarroWay Theatre, 3327 Hwy. 51 North, Fort Mill, S.C. Select days. $5-$33. 704-831-8893. See your favorite Christmas scenes and hear your favorite songs during this holiday dinner theater experience. See website for showtimes. narroway.net.

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Charlotte Symphony Pops: Magic of Christmas.

(Nov. 30-Dec. 3). Belk Theater, 130 N. Tryon St. Thurs.-Sat., 7:30pm; Sun., 4pm. Tickets start at $19. 704-372-1000. This musical holiday program includes music by the Charlotte Symphony Chorus, the Charlotte Children’s Choir, handbell ringers, special guest violinist Mark O’Connor and his family band, plus a visit from Santa. charlottesymphony.org.

Robert Earl Keen’s Merry Christmas From the Fam-o-lee Show. (Dec. 1). Knight Theater, 430 S. Tryon St. 8pm. Tickets start at $32.50. 704-372-1000. A show that promises holiday mischief, fun and great music that only Keen can deliver. blumenthalarts.org.

Charlotte Youth Ballet Presents: The Nutcracker.

(Dec. 1-3). Central Piedmont Community College, Halton Theater, 1206 Elizabeth Ave. $20-$30. 704-330-6840.

Featuring 100 performers ranging from young children to

DECEMBER 2017 | charlotteparent.com

international guest artists. See website for showtimes. tix. cpcc.edu.

Gaston Dance Theatre Presents: The Nutcracker.

(Dec. 1-3). Gaston Day School, Performing Arts Center, 201 W. Franklin Blvd., Gastonia. $7-16. 704-865-5943. Watch the classic holiday story unfold on stage. Showtimes can be found on the website. gastondance.com.

It’s A Wonderful Life. (Dec. 1-17). Matthews Community Center, 100 McDowell St. E., Matthews. Friday-Sunday. $11-$13. 704-846-8343. Come watch as a guardian angel shows George Bailey what life would have been like if he had never been born. Check website for showtimes. matthewsplayhouse.com.

Charlotte Symphony Lollipops: The Magic of Christmas. (Dec. 2). Belk Theater, 130 N. Tryon St. 11am-noon. Tickets start at $14. 704-372-1000. This one-hour

› holiday program includes music by the Charlotte Symphony Chorus, the Charlotte Children’s Choir, hand-bell ringers, plus a visit from Santa. charlottesymphony.org.

Matthews Ballet and Dance Presents: The Nutcracker. (Dec. 2-3). Matthews Community Center, 100 W. McDowell St., Matthews. Saturday, 7pm; and Sunday, 3pm. $5 for adults; $3 for children 12 and younger. 704321-7275. Enjoy a performance of the infamous “Nutcracker” ballet. Space is limited; tickets must be purchased in advance. matthewsnc.gov.

A Christmas Carol. (Dec. 8-17). Theatre Charlotte, 501 Queens Road. $28. 704-372-1000. Come watch the classic tale of Scrooge unfold on stage. Check website for performance times. theatrecharlotte.org.

The Youth Theatre Company Presents: A Dickens Christmas Carol. (Dec. 8-10). Black Box Theatre at the Ballantyne Arts Center, 11318 N. Community House Road. $12. 704-716-4670. Watch Scrooge as he is visited by the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future. See website for showtimes. ymcacharlotte.org.

Clara’s Trip: A Cirque and Dance Nutcracker Story.

(Dec. 8-10). Booth Playhouse, 130 N. Tryon St. Friday, 7:30pm; Saturday, 2 and 7pm; and Sunday, 2pm. $20-$45.

704-844-0449. In this contemporary twist on a holiday classic, Caroline Calouche & Co. dancers soar through the air on silks and trapeze to tell the story of Clara, a young, enthusiastic and clumsy woman who attends a holiday party where she falls while dancing with a charming young man. She is whisked off to the hospital to learn that her ankle is broken. Clara dreams that night of her get-well gifts springing to life. carolinecalouche.org.

Charlotte Ballet: Nutcracker. (Dec. 9-23). Belk Theater, 130 N. Tryon St. $25-$125. 704-372-1000. Watch as Clara encounters an epic battle, a snowfall, jumping candy canes and the Sugar Plum Fairy. Choreography by Jean-Pierre Bonnefoux and music from the Charlotte Symphony. See website for showtimes. Sensory-friendly performance on Dec. 20. charlotteballet.org.

PlayPlay! Theatre Presents: Children of Eden.

(Dec. 9-17). Jewish Community Center, Gorelick Hall, 5007 Providence Road. Ages 5 and older. Saturdays and Sundays, 2 and 7pm. $12 in advance, $15 at door. 704-366-5007. This musical is based off the stories of Genesis. Act I tells the story of Adam, Eve, Cain, and Abel and Act II tells the story of Noah and the flood. charlottejcc.org.

Brain Candy Live! (Dec. 9). Ovens Auditorium, 2700 Independence Blvd. 8pm. Tickets start at $25. 704-372-1000.

Adam Savage, one of television’s most loved personalities, has joined forces with Michael Stevens, one of YouTube’s biggest stars. They’re bringing along their crazy toys, incredible tools and mind-blowing demonstrations for a celebration of curiosity that’s an interactive, hands-on, minds-on theatrical experience. blumenthalarts.org.

Tosco Music Holiday Party. (Dec. 9). McGlohon Theater at Spirit Square, 345 N. College St. 7:30pm. Tickets start at $12.60. 704-568-9685. Don’t miss this special holiday event that features holiday classics, traditional Christmas carols, songs about Hanukkah and Kwanzaa, and singalongs. toscomusic.org.

The Singing Christmas Tree for Kids. (Dec. 9-10).

Knight Theater, Levine Center for the Arts, 430 S. Tryon St. Sat.,11am and Sun., 1:30pm. Recommended for ages 3-10. $15-$22. 704-372-1000. Just an hour in length, this performance features the Grey Seal Puppets, carols by the Carolina Kids Voices Choir, the dancing purple hippo and a visit by Santa Claus. carolinavoices.org.

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performance of “The Nutcracker.” See website for showtimes. yorkcountyballet.com.

A Soulful Noel. (Dec. 15-16). McGlohon Theater at Spirit Square, 345 N. College St. $20. 704-372-1000. The traditional holiday narrative is re-framed in a contemporary way that features classic songs such as “Twas The Night Before Christmas,” “Little Drummer Boy” and “Go Tell it on The Mountain.” blumenthalarts.org.

Hairspray. (Dec. 16-17). Halton Theater, 1206 Elizabeth Ave. $15. 704-330-6840. Theatre Street’s Teen Cast of students, ranging in age from grade six to college, perform this comedy based on the story of a dance-loving teen named Tracy Turnblad who becomes an overnight celebrity. See website for showtimes. tix.cpcc.edu.

Tis the Season: Holidays from Around the World.

(Dec. 16). Queens University, Dana Auditorium, 1900 Selwyn Ave. 7-8:30pm. FREE. Join the Charlotte Concert Band as they celebrate the holidays with carols and traditional seasonal selections from around the world. charlotteconcertband.org.

Happy Holidays Presented by JMSD. (Dec. 9). Central Piedmont Community College, Halton Theater, 1206 Elizabeth Ave. 11am and 3pm. $15-$25. 704-330-6840. Watch this original dance production that features favorite holiday music with classical ballet, tap, jazz and modern dance. This familyfriendly performance tells the story of Angel and her earthly journey as she is sent to find the true meaning of the holiday. tix.cpcc.edu.

The Birth. (Dec. 20-23). Duke Energy Theater at Spirit Square, 345 N. College St. $16-$24. 704-372-1000. “The Birth” is a collection of dramatic performance, dance and live music designed to bring the Christmas story to life in a unique way. Presented by Starving Artist Productions. See website for showtimes. blumenthalarts.org.

Puddles Pity Party. (Dec. 11). McGlohon Theater at Spirit Square, 345 N. College St. 7:30pm. Tickets start at $25.

704-372-1000. The Sad Clown with the Golden Voice is back with a suitcase full of all new emotional anthems and plenty of Kleenex. Puddles’ set is peppered with a brilliant sense of the absurd, mixing lots of humor with the awkward, tender moments. blumenthalarts.org.

Wee by PlayPlay! Theatre. (Dec. 21-23). Levine Jewish Community Center, 5007 Providence Road. Ages 3 and younger. $12. Bring your little one to come hear a story about being little. PlayPlay! Theatre performances are simple plots made for small audiences, and are performed in nontraditional performance spaces with floor seating and room to move around. Children are encouraged to actively participate during the show, and babies are welcome. See the website for showtimes. charlottejcc.org.

Les Miserables. (Dec. 13-17). Ovens Auditorium., 2700 Independence Blvd. Tickets start at $25. 704-372-1000.

Cameron Mackintosh presents the new production of Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schonberg’s Tony Award-winning musical. See website for showtimes. blumenthalarts.org.

The State Ballet Theatre of Russia Presents: Swan Lake. (Dec. 21). Knight Theater, 430 S. Tryon St. 7pm. $35$55. 704-372-1000. Fifty of Russia’s brightest ballet stars bring this classic ballet to life. blumenthalarts.org.

The Lion King, Kids. (Dec. 13 and 17) Central Piedmont Community College, Tate Hall, 1206 Elizabeth Ave. $10. 704330-6840. Come see Theatre Street’s Student Cast perform “The Lion King, Kids” edition. See website for showtimes. tix. cpcc.edu.

The Hip Hop Nutcracker. (Dec. 27-30). Knight Theater, Levine Center for the Arts, 430 S. Tryon St. $19.99+. 704-3721000. A dozen all-star dancers, a DJ, a MC and digital scenery bring the traditional story to life in a contemporary urban setting. See website for showtimes. blumenthalarts.org.

The York County Ballet Presents: The Nutcracker.

(Dec. 14-17). Johnson Theatre, 115 Johnson Hall, Rock Hill. $15. 803-323-2287. Come watch the York County Ballet’s

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› Pineville. 3-6pm. $5.50 per child. 704889-5867. Children with special needs and siblings are welcome to jump in a low-key and calm setting. One parent or therapist can join in at no cost. clt.skyhighsports.com.

On Stage: The Real Christmas Story.

See page 30.

6 WEDNESDAY Child Safety Seat Inspection Station.

Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department, Freedom Division, 4150 Wilkinson Blvd.

9:30-11:30am. FREE. Certified technicians check and help install car seats. No appointment necessary. Bring your vehicle, seat and child for the most assistance. safekidscharmeck.org.

Child Safety Seat Inspection Station.

Matthews Police Department, 1201 Crews Road, Matthews. 8-11:30am. FREE. Certified technicians check and help install car seats. No appointment necessary. Bring your vehicle, seat and child for the most assistance. safekidscharmeck.org.

Family Campfire. McDowell Nature Center, 15222 York Road. 6-7:30pm. FREE. 980314-1128. Enjoy fire, s’mores, fun and friends at a McDowell Nature Preserve campfire while learning about fire safety.

Registration required. parkandrec.com.

Free Wednesday Evenings at the Mint Museum. Mint Museum Randolph, 2730 Randolph Road; Mint Museum Uptown, 500 S. Tryon St. 5-9pm. FREE. 704-337-2000. Explore the Mint Museum’s exhibitions at no cost. mintmuseum.org.

On Stage: The Real Christmas Story.

See page 30.

7 THURSDAY A Pirate Holiday Party and Visit from Santa. Mooresville Public Library, 304 S. Main St., Mooresville. Ages 6 and younger. 10am. FREE. 704-664-2927. Enjoy storytime with a reading of “A Pirate’s Night Before Christmas” by Phillip Yates, sing a rendition of “A Pirate’s 12 Days of Christmas” and visit with Santa Claus. mooresvillelibrary.com.

7th Street Public Market Holiday Sip and Shop. 7th Street Public Market, 224 E 7th St. 4:30-9pm. Free admission. 704230-4346. Shop for holiday gifts from local vendors at the 7th Street Market. facebook. com/7thsipshop. = Santa Sighting Event

On Stage: The Real Christmas Story.

See page 30.

8 FRIDAY Fun Holiday Ornaments. Mooresville Public Library, Youth Services Community Room, 304 S. Main St., Mooresville. Ages 3-6. 11am-noon. FREE. 704-664-2927.

Come listen to holiday music and make ornaments to take home. Register online. mooresvillelibrary.com.

Parents Night Out. Marion Diehl Recreation Center, 2219 Tyvola Road. Ages 4-12.

5-8pm. $10. 980-314-1300. Children can swim, make crafts, play games and eat pizza while parents have a night out.

Register online. parkandrec.com.

TGIF at McDowell. McDowell Nature Center, 15222 York Road. Ages 6-9. 4-5pm.

FREE. 980-314-1128. Enjoy nature-based educational activities and meet new friends.

Registration required. parkandrec.com.

On Stage: The Real Christmas Story; The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical; A Christmas Carol; The Youth Theatre Company Presents: A Dickens Christmas Carol; and Clara’s Trip: A Cirque and Dance Nutcracker Story. See page 30.

9 SATURDAY 2nd Saturday: Holiday Workshop.

NASCAR Hall of Fame, 400 E. Martin Luther King Blvd. 10am-4pm. $19.95. 888-9026463. A pop-up workshop that includes all the tools needed to create colorful crafts, including your own version of a car of the future. nascarhall.com. #STEAMSaturdays: Programming and Robotics. Hygge Coworking West, 2128 Remount Road. Grades K-8. 9-10:30am. $25. 704-412-9147. Build a hockey goalie and teach it to block pucks or program a rolling droid (kind of like BB-8). Hosted by Digi-Bridge. Register online. digi-bridge. org.

Bilingual Stories and Music. Mint Museum Randolph, 2730 Randolph Road. Ages 6 and younger. 11am-noon. $5 for up to six family members; free for Mint Museum members. 704-337-2090. An interactive, bilingual (Spanish/English) morning that incorporates music, plays, and stories. mintmuseum.org.

Breakfast With Santa. Matthews Community Center, 100 McDowell St., Matthews. Ages 2-8. 9 and 10:45am seatings. $5 per person. 704-321-7275.

Have breakfast with Santa and Mrs. Claus, take photos, watch a theater performance and make a craft. Reservations required; tickets must be purchased at the Matthews Community Center. matthewsnc.gov.

Girls On The Run South 5K. Whitehall Corporate Center, 3701 Arco Corporate Drive. 7:30am. $25-$35. Run, hop, skip or jump across the finish line at this familyfriendly, noncompetitive 5k where positive energy abounds. gotrcharlotte.org/5Ks. Olaf’s Frozen Adventure Big Golden Book Storytime. Barnes and Noble, Morrison Place, 4020 Sharon Road.

11am. FREE. 704-364-0626. Journey with Olaf, Anna, Kristoff and Elsa through a frozen adventure to find the best holiday traditions. Activities to follow. stores. barnesandnoble.com.

Pancakes With Santa. Stonecrest at Piper Glen Fountain Plaza, 7832 Rea Road.

10am-noon. Enjoy breakfast with Santa to help support Second Harvest Food Bank. Savory breakfast and lunch options, including $1 pancakes and pancake decoration, will be available along with other breakfast items. Stick around for crafts and visits with “The Merry Christmas Tree.” Be sure to bring your camera to capture that special photo with Santa, and bring nonperishable food items to benefit Second Harvest Food Bank. shopstonecrest. com.

Santa and Mrs. Claus Visit the Museum. Kings Mountain Historical Museum, 100 E. Mountain St., Kings Mountain. 11am-1pm. FREE. 704-7391019. Santa will be at the Toys, Games and TRAINS exhibit. Mrs. Claus will also do a special reading of the classic 1823 children’s story, “The Night Before Christmas.” kingsmountainmuseum.org.

Strolling Santa at Charlotte Premium Outlets. Charlotte Premium Outlets, 5404 New Fashion Way. Noon5pm. FREE. Santa will be roaming the mall handing out treats and stopping for photos. premiumoutlets.com.

On Stage: The Real Christmas Story; The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical; A Christmas

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Carol; A Dickens Christmas Carol; Clara’s Trip: A Cirque and Dance Nutcracker Story; Charlotte Ballet Presents: Nutcracker; PlayPlay!

Theatre: Children of Eden; Brain Candy Live!; Tosco Music Holiday Party; The Singing Christmas Tree for Kids; and Happy Holidays. See page 30.

10 SUNDAY Dads, Football and Brews. Free Range Brewing, 2320 N. Davidson St. 1pm. Free admission. Root for the Panthers with other new dads and families. Nonalcoholic beverages and children’s area provided. charlottedadsgroup.com.

Pet Photo Night with Santa at SouthPark. SouthPark Mall, 4400 Sharon Road. 7-9pm. Photo packages start at $24.99. Bring your pets and family to see Santa and get photos. southpark.com.

Pet Photos with Santa at Concord Mills. Concord Mills, 8111 Concord Mills Blvd., Concord. 6-8pm. Costs for photo packages vary. Bring your furry friends to Concord Mills to get pictures with Santa. eventbrite.com.

On Stage: The Real Christmas Story, “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical;” “A Christmas Carol,” “A Dickens Christmas Carol,” Clara’s Trip: A Cirque and Dance Nutcracker Story, Charlotte Ballet Presents: “Nutcracker,” PlayPlay!

Theatre: “Children of Eden,” The Singing Christmas Tree, and The Singing Christmas Tree for Kids.

See page 30.

11 MONDAY Babes in the Woods. McDowell Nature Center, 15222 York Road. Age 2 and younger. 10-11am. FREE. 980-314-1128.

Stroll and chat with other parents and join nature center educators for an easy walk along the paved nature trail. Registration required. parkandrec.com.

Pet Night at Carolina Place. Carolina Place, 11025 Carolina Place Pkwy., Pineville. 5-8pm. Photo packages costs vary. Bring your furry friends to Carolina Place to get a picture with Santa and the whole family. carolinaplace.com.

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Stop by Santa’s House at Christmas in Davidson for a family photo. Photo courtesy of Town of Davidson

HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS Santa’s Bag. (Nov. 29-Dec. 2). ImaginOn, Children’s Theatre of Charlotte, 300 E. 7th St. Ages 11 and younger. WednesdayFriday, 9-11:30am and 4:30-7pm; Saturday, 10am-2pm (or until merchandise sells out). Free admission. Children can shop a wide variety of inexpensive, pre-wrapped gifts with the help of an elf.

Gifts range in price from 50 cents to $5. ctcharlotte.org.

Christmas at the Library. (Dec. 1 -23). The Billy Graham Library, 4330 Westmont Drive. Mon.-Thurs., 5-9pm; Fri.-Sat. 5-10pm. FREE; additional cost for carriage rides. 704-4013200. Enjoy light displays, a live nativity display, horse-drawn carriage rides, Christmas carolers, and story times for children. billygrahamlibrary.org.

Christmas in Davidson. (Nov. 30-Dec. 2). Downtown Davidson. 6-9pm. FREE. This annual three-day festival includes local arts and crafts vendors, horse-drawn carriage rides, a live nativity, strolling carolers, food, a pet fashion show, and many musical and theatrical performances. Also be sure to stop by Santa’s House to get a picture with Saint Nick. christmasindavidson.com.

A Huntersville Christmas. (Dec. 1-2). Downtown Huntersville. Friday, 6-9pm; Saturday, 2-8pm. FREE. Enjoy holiday activities and performances and take pictures with Santa. There will be a live nativity, horse-drawn carriage rides, roaming holiday characters, balloon twisters, jugglers and airbrush tattoo artists. The tree lighting is Friday at 7pm. huntersville.org.

ChristmasVille. (Nov. 30-Dec. 3). Historic Old Town Rock Hill. Free admission. This four-day festival includes a variety of events ranging from hot chocolate with Santa and gingerbread workshops, to bourbon tasting and chocolate pairing. Enjoy live holiday performances, arts and crafts, fireworks and more. Many of the festivities are free. See website for full schedule of events. christmasvillerockhill.com.

Community Nativity Festival. (Nov. 30-Dec. 2). 7036 McIlwaine Road, Huntersville. 10am-8pm. FREE. Donated canned goods encouraged. Attend this festival to see nativities from around the world. There are also crafts and scavenger hunts for children and musical performances by individuals, churches and schools from the community each evening. nativityfestival.com.

Fourth Ward Holiday Home Tour (Dec. 1-3). Fourth Ward Neighborhood. $35. Go on a walkable, self-guided tour of private homes in Fourth Ward decorated for the season. Choirs and hand-bell ensembles will perform seasonal music. Guests receive complimentary horse-and-carriage rides throughout the neighborhood and samplings of food and beverage (while they last). fofw.org.

Christmas Town USA. (Dec. 1-26). McAdenville. The lights glow Monday-Friday, 5:30-9:30pm and Saturday-Sunday, 5:30-11pm. FREE. Walk or drive the 2 miles through the town of McAdenville and view the lit-up trees, houses and wreaths. mcadenville-christmastown.com.

Candlelight Christmas. (Dec. 2). Historic Latta Plantation,

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DECEMBER 2017 | charlotteparent.com

5225 Sample Road, Huntersville. 6-9pm. $8-9, children 5 and under free. 704-875-2312. Enjoy a stroll among the candlelit property and buildings, listen to live music, and see a live nativity scene. lattaplantation.org.

Christmas Candlelight Tours. (Dec. 2 and 9). Historic Brattonsville, 1444 Brattonsville Road, McConnells, S.C. 3-9pm.$6$10. Children 3 and younger admitted free. 803-909-7244. Through candlelit vignettes, costumed interpreters recreate Christmas of the backcountry settlers in the 18th and 19th centuries. Learn about old and new Christmas traditions, engage in hands-on children’s activities, visit with Father Christmas, relax by the campfire and enjoy musical entertainment. Food available for purchase. chmuseums.org.

Christmas in Downtown Monroe. (Dec. 2). Downtown Monroe. 6-9pm. FREE. Watch the annual lighting of the Christmas Tree, take a photo with Santa, go on a trolley ride, visit the petting zoo and more. historicdowntownmonroe.org.

Holiday Festival of Lights. (Dec. 2). Downtown Waxhaw.

5-8pm. FREE. Downtown Waxhaw is transformed into a winter wonderland, decorated with 500,000 lights. Enjoy the live Christmas concert and see Santa. waxhaw.com.

Gingerbread Lane. (Dec. 7-27). The Ballantyne Hotel, 10000 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy. FREE. 704-248-4000. View gingerbread creations by both amateurs and professionals. Vote on your favorites for $1 each; all donations benefit Levine Children’s Hospital. theballantynehotel.com.

› Belmont Christmas Village. (Dec. 8). Downtown Belmont. 6-9pm. Free. Enjoy the sights and sounds of Christmas, plus shopping. cityofbelmont.org.

Passport to Christmas. (Dec. 8-9). JAARS Center, 7405 Jaars Road, Waxhaw. Fri., 1:30-5pm; Sat., 9am-12:30pm and 1:30-5pm. Ages 6-12. $5 per child. 704-843-6130. Learn about Jesus, and hear, see, and taste the cultures of Senegal, India, and Solomon Islands through stories, activities, crafts and food. Space is limited; preregistration is required. jaars.org.

Colonial Christmas. (Dec. 9). The Schiele Museum, 1500 E. Garrison Blvd., Gastonia. 2-6pm. $5-$12, includes museum admission. 704-866-6900. Join in the “Procession of the Yule Log” with the singing of traditional carols and English country dancing, followed by a candlelight service at dusk. Enjoy special live planetarium programs that explore our current night sky and discuss possible sources of the Star of Bethlehem. schielemuseum.org.

Light Up MillBridge. (Dec. 9). 1401 MillBridge Pkwy, Waxhaw.

5:30-8:30pm. FREE. Check out the community Christmas tree, take a horse-drawn carriage ride, assemble crafts and enjoy hot chocolate and s’mores. Santa will also be there. millbridge-nc.com.

The Polar Express Train Ride (Through Dec. 22) North Carolina Transportation Museum, 411 S. Salisbury Ave., Spencer.

Tickets start at $30. 704-636-2889. Take the train to the North Pole to meet Santa. Enjoy a live reading of the story “The Polar Express,” complete with songs from the movie. Hot chocolate and cookies served. Open on weekends with extended days Dec. 14-22. See website for full schedule. nctrans.org.

Charlotte Christmas Village and Christkindlmarkt.

(Through Dec. 24). Romare Bearden Park, 300 S. Church St. Free admission. Tuesday-Wednesday, 11am-7pm; ThursdaySaturday, 11am-9pm; Sunday, noon-6pm. A German-inspired Christmas Market that includes traditional German foods and treats, crafts and gifts, and local musical performances. cltchristmasvillage.com.

Leonard Bearstein Symphony Orchestra. (Through Dec. 28). Founders Hall, 100 N. Tryon St. Daily, 10am-8pm.

FREE. 704-716-8649. The animatronic bears perform classic holiday songs. The 45-minute programs start on the hour. All performances are subject to cancellation so check the website for updates. foundershall.com.

WinterFest. (Through Dec. 30). Carowinds, 14523 Carowinds Blvd. 5-10pm. Select days. Tickets start at $25. Become immersed in the season’s spirit with spectacular holiday lights and décor, live entertainment, treats and fanciful experiences throughout the theme park. carowinds.com.

Holidays at the Garden. (Through Dec. 31). Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, 6500 S. New Hope Road, Belmont.

5-9pm. $8.95-$14.95. 704-825-4490. Over 600,000 lights decorate the garden, incuding sparkling fountains and twinkling trees. Enjoy live music, shopping, food, fires and a model train display. Carriage rides are available ThursdaySunday for an additional cost. Closed Dec. 25. dsbg.org.

Speedway Christmas. (Through Dec. 31) Charlotte Motor Speedway, 5555 Concord Pkwy. South, Concord.

6-10pm. $25-$30 per car when village is open; $20 per car when village is closed. 800-455-3267. Drive the 3.5 mile course to see over 3 million lights. Then visit the village to see Santa, a petting zoo and a live nativity, and watch a movie from your car on the giant HDTV. Closed Dec. 25. Check the website for the schedule. charlottemotorspeedway.com.

Christmas Wonderland of Lights. (Through Jan. 1).

Zootastic Park, 385 Ostwalt Amity Road, Troutman. SundayThursday, 6-9pm; Friday-Saturday, 6-10pm. $7 per person.

704-245-6446. Come see the zoo lit up for the holidays.

Visit with Santa, take a pony ride, pet animals and roast marshmallows over a fire. zootasticpark.com.

Toys, Games and TRAINS. (Through Jan. 6). Kings Mountain Historical Museum, 100 E. Mountain St., Kings Mountain. Tuesday-Saturday, 10am-4pm. FREE. 704-7391019. Explore the miniature snow-covered scenes that line the tracks. kingsmountainmuseum.org.

Holiday on Ice. (Through Jan. 7). NASCAR Hall of Fame Plaza, 400 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. $10 admission; $4 skate rental. Wednesday-Friday, 5-10pm; Saturday, 10am-10pm; and Sunday, 11am-7pm. Open 10am-10pm weekdays when Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools are out. Skate on more than 7,000 square feet of ice in the heart of the city.

See website for hours. holidayonicecharlotte.com.

Winter Wonderland at Symphony Park. (Through Jan. 8, 2018). Symphony Park, 4400 Sharon Road. $12 for admission, $5 for skate rental. Skate around Symphony Park’s outdoor ice skating rink, hear live music every Friday night along with other guests, activities and special events. Check website for hours. winterwonderlandsouthpark.com.

Founders Holiday Ice Rink. (Through Jan. 15, 2018).

205 Saluda St., Rock Hill. $10, includes skate rental. Visit the open-air ice skating rink located across from Fountain Park.

See website for operating hours. onlyinoldtown.com.

The Ice Park. (Through Jan. 15, 2018). The Speedpark at Concord Mills, 8461 Concord Mills Boulevard, Concord. See website for schedule. $12 for ice skating, includes skates. Other activies are additional cost additional. 704-527-8464. Ice skate on 4,200 square feet of real ice, plus enjoy go karting, play mini golf, and have fun on the spider web. thespeedpark.com.

CALENDAR

On Stage: The Real Christmas Story, and Puddles Pity Party. See page 30.

12 TUESDAY First Day of Hanukkah Free Entry to the Schiele Museum. The Schiele Museum, 1500 E. Garrison Blvd., Gastonia. 4-8pm. FREE. 704-866-6900.

Explore the exhibits at The Schiele, including “Dino Safari” and “Catawba Indian Village.” schielemuseum.org.

Pet Night With Santa. Monroe Crossing, 2115 W. Roosevelt Blvd., Monroe. 6-8pm. Photos for purchase. 704-289-6547.

Bring your pet to get a picture of the whole family, furryfriend included, with Santa. shopmonroecrossing.com.

On Stage: The Real Christmas Story, and A Christmas Carol. See page 30.

13 WEDNESDAY Child Safety Seat Inspection Station. Huntersville Fire Station 1, 110 S. Old Statesville Road, Huntersville.

9am-noon. FREE. Certified technicians check and help install car seats. No appointment necessary. Bring your vehicle, seat and child for the most assistance. safekidscharmeck.org.

Child Safety Seat Inspection Station. Matthews Police Department, 1201 Crews Road, Matthews. 8-11:30am. FREE. Certified technicians check and help families install car seats.

No appointment necessary. Bring your vehicle, seat and child for the most assistance. safekidscharmeck.org.

Free Wednesday Evenings at the Mint Museum. Mint Museum Randolph, 2730 Randolph Road; Mint Museum Uptown, 500 S. Tryon St. 5-9pm. FREE. 704-337-2000. Explore the Mint Museum’s exhibitions at no cost. mintmuseum.org.

On Stage: The Real Christmas Story; A Christmas Carol; Les Miserables; and The Lion King, Kids.

See page 30.

14 THURSDAY A Pirate Holiday Party and Visit from Santa. Mooresville Public Library, 304 S. Main St., Mooresville. Ages 6 and under.

6pm. FREE. 704-664-2927. Enjoy storytime with a reading of “A Pirate’s Night Before Christmas” by Phillip Yates, sing a rendition of “A Pirate’s 12 Days of Christmas” and visit with Santa. mooresvillelibrary.com.

Let’s Party at Santa’s Workshop. York Public Library, Meeting Room, 21 E. Liberty St., York. 4:30-5:30pm. FREE. 803-684-3751. Visit Santa’s Workshop and listen to stories, watch a movie, eat snacks and make a craft to take home. No registration required. yclibrary.org.

“Star Wars-The Last Jedi” Screening Benefit for IGNITE. Our Town Cinemas, 227 Griffith St., Davidson.

7-10pm. $25. 704-897-8982. Price includes admission to the movie, any size soft drink and any size popcorn. Proceeds benefit the IGNITE Program for individuals with highfunctioning autism and Asperger’s Syndrome. Doors open at 6pm. lastjedi.eventbrite.com. = Santa Sighting Event charlotteparent.com | DECEMBER 2017

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›

CALENDAR

On Stage: The Real Christmas Story; A Christmas Carol; Charlotte Ballet Presents: Nutcracker; Les Miserables; and The York County Ballet presents: The Nutcracker.

See page 30.

15 FRIDAY Preschool Fun Day. Morrison YMCA, 9405 Bryant Farms Road. Ages 3-5. 9am-1pm. $35. Enjoy stories, songs, playground time and crafts, plus one special area class, such as cooking, gymnastics, sports, youth fitness and science. Registration required. ymcacharlotte.org.

On Stage: The Real Christmas Story; The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical; A Christmas Carol; Charlotte Ballet Presents: Nutcracker; Les Miserables; The York County Ballet presents: The Nutcracker; and A Soulful Noel.

See page 30.

16 SATURDAY Breakfast With Santa. Dave and Buster’s Concord Mills, 8361 Concord Mills Blvd., Concord. Ages 2 and older. 9-11am. $19.99.

704-979-1706. Enjoy a hearty breakfast buffet, a fun hot chocolate bar and other activities while we wait for Santa’s arrival.

Also get exclusive access to Dave and Buster’s games and simulators prior to standard operating hours. dnb.ticketbud.com.

Breakfast With Santa. Matthews Community Center, 100 McDowell St., Matthews. Ages 2-8. 9 and 10:45am seatings. $5 per person. 704-321-7275.

Have breakfast with Santa and Mrs. Claus, take photos, watch a theater performance and make a craft. Reservations required; tickets must be purchased at the Matthews Community Center. matthewsnc.gov.

Coffee and Cocoa With Snowflakes and Colors. McDowell Nature Center, 15222 York Road. 3-4:30pm. Ages 6 and older.

Noon. FREE. 980-314-1128. Make paper snowflakes and color beautiful winter scenes before the bustle of the holidays.

Registration required. parkandrec.com.

Cultural Exploration: Kwanzaa With Mother Minter. Hickory Grove Library, 5935 Hickory Grove Road. Ages 3-11.

11:30am-12:30pm. FREE. 704-416-4402.

Hear stories, sing songs and participate in

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activities that give participants a deeper understanding of the Kwanzaa celebration.

Register online. cmlibrary.org.

Private Visits With Santa. Historic Latta Plantation, 5225 Sample Road, Huntersville.

10-5pm. $5 per child, free for people older than 18. 704-875-2312. Children can enjoy a private visit with Santa. Allows time for personal photography. Santa can then give a personalized gift to the child (brought by the parents). Registration required. lattaplantation.org.

River Rose and the Magical Christmas Storytime. Barnes and Noble, Morrison Place, 4020 Sharon Road. 11am. FREE. 704-364-0626. Listen to this reading about River Rose who wants to stay up all night to deliver a note to Santa. Activities to follow. stores.barnesandnoble.com.

Santa Run 8K and Snowman Dash. S. Mint Street in between Romare Bearden Park and the Knights Stadium. 8k starts at 9am; 1-mile run starts at 10:15am. $22.50$50. 704-968-5666. Come run dressed as Santa, an Elf, a Reindeer or a snowman.

Strollers are welcome. Stay for food trucks, hot cocoa, sponsor giveaways and music after the run. santaruncharlotte.com.

Strolling Santa at Charlotte Premium Outlets. Charlotte Premium Outlets, 5404 New Fashion Way. 12-5pm.

FREE. Santa will be roaming the mall handing out treats and stopping for photos. premiumoutlets.com.

We Believe – Santa 5K Trail Run. U.S. National Whitewater Center, 5000 Whitewater Center Pkwy. Noon. $30-$37. 704-391-3900.

Come in your best Santa costume and hit the trails to run this 5K. A prize will be awarded for the best Santa look-alike. usnwc.org.

On Stage: The Real Christmas Story; The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical; A Christmas Carol; Charlotte Ballet Presents: Nutcracker; PlayPlay! Theatre: Children of Eden; Les Miserables; York County Ballet Presents The Nutcracker; A Soulful Noel; Handel’s Messiah; Hairspray; and Tis the Season: Holidays From Around the World. See page 30.

17 SUNDAY Animal Care Behind-the-Scenes Tour.

McDowell Nature Center, 15222 York Road.

DECEMBER 2017 | charlotteparent.com

Ages 8 and older. 3-4pm. FREE. 980-3141128. What do turtles eat? How do snakes keep warm? Learn the answers to these and many more animal care questions at this behind-the-scenes animal-care program.

Registration required. parkandrec.com.

Natural Ornaments. The Schiele Museum, 1500 E. Garrison Blvd., Gastonia. 2-4pm. $6-$7. 704-866-6900. Help the wildlife in your backyard survive the winter by making natural (edible) ornaments to hang outside.

Explore the nature trail using our winter scavenger hunt. schielemuseum.org.

On Stage: The Real Christmas Story; A Christmas Carol; The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical; PlayPlay! Theatre Presents: Children of Eden; Les Miserables; Theatre Street presents The Lion King, Kids; Charlotte Ballet Presents Nutcracker; The York County Ballet presents The Nutcracker; and Hairspray. See page 30.

Mrs. Claus’ Holly Jolly Bedtime Family Storytime. York County Library, 138 E. Black St., Rock Hill. 6-7pm. FREE. 803-9815858. Put on your pajamas and join Mrs. Claus for storytime, followed by crafts and songs. Register online. yclibrary.org.

Pet Night With Santa. Monroe Crossing, 2115 W. Roosevelt Blvd., Monroe. 6-8pm.

Photos for purchase. 704-289-6547. Bring your pet to get a picture of the whole family with Santa, furry-friend included, . shopmonroecrossing.com.

Story Time and More. Children’s Garden at Wing Haven, 260 Ridgewood Ave. Recommended for children under age 10 but all are welcome. 10-11am. Cost per family is $10. Free for members.

704-331-0664. Join Rutherford Rabbit for a seasonally themed story and craft. winghavengardens.org.

On Stage: The Real Christmas Story.

See page 30.

18 MONDAY

Child Safety Seat Inspection Station.

Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department, Freedom Division, 4150 Wilkinson Blvd.

9:30-11:30am. FREE. Certified technicians check and install car seats. No appointment necessary. Bring your vehicle, seat and child for the most assistance. safekidscharmeck. org.

Child Safety Seat Inspection Station.

Matthews Police Department, 1201 Crews Road, Matthews. 8-11:30am. FREE. Certified technicians check and install car seats. No appointment necessary. Bring your vehicle, seat and child for the most assistance. safekidscharmeck.org.

Happy Owlidays (Winter Camp).

Carolina Raptor Center, 6000 Sample Road, Huntersville. Ages 7-11. 8:30am-4:30pm. $30, plus $10 for extended day. 704-2520967. Make feeders for your backyard, learn about winter residents and migrants, and make winter bird-themed crafts. Limited to 10 participants. Registration required. carolinaraptorcenter.org.

Family Campfire. McDowell Nature Center, 15222 York Road. 6-7:30pm. FREE. 980314-1128. Enjoy fire, s’mores, fun and friends at a McDowell Nature Preserve campfire while learning about fire safety.

Registration required. parkandrec.com.

Pajama Bedtime Storytime. Clover Public Library, 107 Knox St., Clover. 5-6:30pm.

FREE. 803-222-3474. Wear pajamas and come hear holiday stories. Register online. yclibrary.org.

Pet Night at Carolina Place. Carolina Place, 11025 Carolina Place Pkwy., Pineville.

5-8pm. Photo packages costs vary. Bring your furry friends to Carolina Place to get a picture with Santa and the whole family. carolinaplace.com.

On Stage: The Real Christmas Story.

See page 30.

19 TUESDAY Charlotte Mecklenburg Library Presents: Winterfest. ImaginOn: The Joe and Joan Martin Center, 300 E. 7th St. Ages 3-5. 10:30am-noon. FREE. 704-4164630. Join for a holiday-themed family storytime, followed by hands-on activities. cmlibrary.org.

Holiday Campfire. Reedy Creek Nature Preserve, 2900 Rocky River Road. 1:303pm. FREE. 980-314-1119. Take a brief hike in the woods and then settle in next to a cozy fire. Roast chestnuts and sip on hot chocolate. Register online. parkandrec.com.

20 WEDNESDAY

› Family Movie Day. Mooresville Public Library, 304 S. Main St., Mooresville. 2-4pm. FREE. 704-664-2927. Come in your pajamas for a free showing of the movie “Polar Express,” rated G. Canned food donations are encouraged. Bring two or more and receive a special train ride souvenir. mooresvillelibrary.org.

Free Wednesday Evenings at the Mint Museum. Mint Museum Randolph, 2730 Randolph Road; Mint Museum Uptown, 500 S. Tryon St. 5-9pm. FREE. 704-337-2000. Explore the Mint Museum’s exhibitions at no cost. mintmuseum.org.

Winter Break Expedition. Latta Plantation Nature Preserve, 6211 Sample Road, Huntersville. Ages 10-16. 9am-4pm. $25.

704-875-1391. Hike Crowders Mountain and learn about its history. Register in advance.. parkandrec.com.

On Stage: The Real Christmas Story; The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical; Charlotte Ballet Presents: Nutcracker; and The Birth. See page 30.

21 THURSDAY First Day of Winter Here Comes the Sun: Winter Solstice Family Campfire. Latta Plantation Nature Preserve, 6211 Sample Road, Huntersville. 6-8pm. FREE. 704-875-1391.

Celebrate the shortest day of the year with a family campfire. Make s’mores and stargaze. Register online. parkandrec.com.

Merry Grinchmas. Fort Mill Public Library, 1818 2nd Baxter Crossing, Fort Mill. Ages 3-11. 5:30-6:30pm. FREE. 803-547-4114.

Come join us for a very Grinch Christmas celebration. yclibrary.org.

Movies on Main: It’s a Wonderful Life.

The Charles Mack Citizen Center, 215 N. Main St., Mooresville. 8pm. FREE. 704662-3334. Watch a showing of this holiday classic. townofmooresvillenc.com.

On Stage: The Real Christmas Story; The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical; Charlotte Ballet Presents: Nutcracker; The Birth; Wee by PlayPlay! Theatre; and Swan Lake. See page 30.

22 FRIDAY Free Entry to the Schiele Museum. The Schiele Museum, 1500 E. Garrison Blvd., = Santa Sighting Event

Gastonia. 1-5pm. FREE. 704-866-6900.

Get free entry to the Schiele Museum and explore some of the exhibits like “Dino Safari” and “Catawba Indian Village.” schielemuseum.org.

On Stage: The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical; Charlotte Ballet Presents: Nutcracker; The Birth; and Wee by PlayPlay! Theatre. See page 30.

23 SATURDAY Breakfast With Santa. NASCAR Hall of Fame, 400 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

8-11am. 704-654-4400. Eat a pancake breakfast, enjoy festive crafts, watch a movie, ice skate and get a photo with Santa. holidaysatthehall.com.

Coffee and Cocoa With Snowflakes and Colors. McDowell Nature Center, 15222 York Road. 2-4pm. Ages 6 and older.

Noon. FREE. 980-314-1128. Make paper snowflakes and color beautiful winter scenes before the bustle of the holidays.

Registration required. parkandrec.com.

Santa’s Magic Key Storytime. Barnes and Noble, Morrison Place, 4020 Sharon Road. 11am. FREE. 704-364-0626. Hear a story about a boy who realizes his house doesn’t have a chimney for Santa to use.

He finds a mysterious key that helps solve his problem. Activities to follow. stores. barnesandnoble.com.

Strolling Santa at Charlotte Premium Outlets. Charlotte Premium Outlets, 5404 New Fashion Way. 12-5pm.

FREE. Santa will be roaming the mall handing out treats and stopping for photos. premiumoutlets.com.

On Stage: The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical, Charlotte Ballet Presents: Nutcracker, The Birth, and Wee by PlayPlay! Theatre. See page 30.

24 SUNDAY Christmas Eve

25 MONDAY Christmas Day

26 TUESDAY First Day of Kwanzaa Undeck the Hall. NASCAR Hall of Fame, 400 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. 10am. Free

with museum admission ($12-$25, free for members). 704-654-4400. Help to “Undeck” the NASCAR Hall of Fame trees, which will be filled with surprises including race tickets, autographed souvenirs and more. The event will continue until all gifts are gone. nascarhall.com.

Holiday Geocache. McDowell Nature Center, 15222 York Road. Ages 7 and up.

12:30-2pm. FREE. 980-314-1128. This guided geocache program for newbies and pros alike teaches participants how to use a geocache and discover caches (and a holiday surprise!) around the nature preserve on this 2-3 mile hike. Registration required. parkandrec.com.

27 WEDNESDAY Child Safety Seat Inspection Station.

Matthews Police Department, 1201 Crews Road, Matthews. 8-11:30am. FREE. Certified technicians will check and help families install car seats. No appointment necessary. Bring your vehicle, seat and if possible the child for the most assistance. safekidscharmeck.org.

Free Wednesday Evenings at the Mint Museum. Mint Museum Randolph, 2730 Randolph Road; Mint Museum Uptown, 500 S. Tryon St. 5-9pm. FREE. 704-337-2000. Explore the Mint Museum’s exhibitions. mintmuseum.org.

Raptor Keepers (Winter Camp). Carolina Raptor Center, 6000 Sample Road, Huntersville. Ages 11-14. 8:30am-4:30pm. $35, plus $10 extended day. 704-875-6521.

Your kid can learn to care for, train and manage the resident birds of the center.

Limited to 10 participants. Registration required. carolinaraptorcenter.org.

Winter Orienteering. McDowell Nature Center, 15222 York Road. Ages 10 and up. 1-4pm. $5. 980-314-1128. Learn how to navigate using map and compass on McDowell’s orienteering course.

Registration required. parkandrec.com.

On Stage: The Hip Hop Nutcracker. See page 30.

28 THURSDAY Fort Building and Capture the Flag.

McDowell Nature Center, 15222 York Road.

Ages 7-12. 2-4pm. FREE. 980-314-1128.

Have fun in the woods building a fort and defending it as we play the classic game

CALENDAR

of capture the flag. Registration required. parkandrec.com.

On Stage: The Hip Hop Nutcracker. See page 30.

29 FRIDAY Belk Bowl FanFest. 9am. FREE. 704-6444047. Come for pre-game activities and celebration before the Belk Bowl game at 1pm. belkbowl.com.

Mallstars Noon Year’s Eve. Northlake Mall, 6801 Northlake Mall Drive. 10:30-12pm.

FREE. Enjoy a family-style New Year’s that the little ones can stay awake for. Families are invited to enjoy games, arts and crafts, live music with Mr. Nigel. Then when the clock strikes noon, balloons fall from the ceiling and your family can celebrate the New Year when everyone is awake. shopnorthlake.com.

Reindeer Games. McDowell Nature Center, 15222 York Road. Ages 6-11. 1:30-3pm.

FREE. 980-314-1128. Come and join us to play games like “Camouflage” and “Oh Deer.”

Registration required. parkandrec.com.

On Stage: The Hip Hop Nutcracker. See page 30.

30 SATURDAY The Story of Ferdinand Storytime. Barnes and Noble, Morrison Place, 4020 Sharon Road. 11am. FREE. 704-364-0626. Listen to the story of Ferdinand the bull. Activities to follow. stores.barnesandnoble.com.

Track Trails: Nature’s Relationships.

McDowell Nature Center, 15222 York Road.

Ages 8-11. 2-3pm. FREE. 980-314-1128.

Take a guided nature hike and explore our woods in search of local flora and fauna.

Registration required. parkandrec.com.

On Stage: The Hip Hop Nutcracker. See page 30.

31 SUNDAY Natural Happenings: Snowflakes.

McDowell Nature Center, 15222 York Road. 2-4pm. FREE. 980-314-1128. Join a naturalist from McDowell Nature Center for this special edition of Natural Happenings.

Registration required. parkandrec.com.

charlotteparent.com | DECEMBER 2017

37

Elsa made an appearance at the 2016 Waxhaw Christmas Parade. See this year’s parade Dec. 10.

Photo courtesy of Town of Waxhaw

›

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

TREE LIGHTINGS AND PARADES

Harrisburg’s Annual Christmas Tree Lighting. (Dec. 1). Veterans Park, 4100 Main St., Harrisburg. FREE. 704-455-7275. Be there to see Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive on a firetruck to light the tree. Enjoy horse-drawn wagon rides, crafts, a live nativity and performances by local dancers and musicians. Local crafts and seasonal refreshments are available for purchase. harrisburgnc.org.

Lighting of Christmas Town USA. (Dec. 1). Pharr Family YMCA, 208 Main St., McAdenville. 5pm. FREE. Join the annual tree-lighting ceremony in McAdenville, complete with more than 500,000 holiday lights. mcadenville-christmastown.com.

North Mecklenburg Christmas Parade. (Dec. 3). Davidson to Cornelius along Highway 115. 1:30pm. FREE. Enjoy the 35th annual North Mecklenburg Christmas Parade. townofdavidson.org.

It’s a Wonderful Life Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting. (Dec. 3). Indian Trail Road near Crossing Paths Park, Indian Trail.

2-7pm. FREE. 704-821-5401. Enjoy the parade, tree lighting, and lots of fun and games. indiantrail.org.

THE BEST LESSONS LAST A LIFETIME. ENROLL NOW MATH & ENGLISH PROGRAMS

Gastonia Christmas Parade. (Dec. 3). Downtown Gastonia. 4pm, followed by the tree-lighting between 6-7pm. FREE. Get a free picture with Santa, Elsa, Olaf and the Grinch. Enjoy decorating a tree ornament, playing games, plus food and crafts as part of the Christmas in the City village between 2 and 8pm. gastoncojaycees.org.

Belmont Christmas Parade. (Dec. 5). Begins at Stowe Park on South Main Street and marches north along Main Street and along Catawba Ave. 3:30pm. FREE. See more than 100 units and floats. cityofbelmont.org.

Kannapolis Christmas Parade. (Dec. 9). Downtown Kannapolis. 6pm. FREE. 704-920-4300. Come watch Kannapolis’ 79th annual Christmas parade. kannapolisnc.gov.

Waxhaw Christmas Parade. (Dec. 10). Downtown Waxhaw. 3-6pm. FREE. This parade features Waxhaw’s local school marching bands and floats by hundreds of members of the community. Afterwards, have a snack with Santa. waxhaw.com.

CALENDAR POLICY ::

The Charlotte Parent calendar lists free and low-cost local and regional events for children and families. To submit an event for consideration, go to charlotteparent. com/calendar, then click on Submit an Event. Submission deadline for print is the 5th of the month prior to the next month’s publication. Time, dates and details of events are subject to change. Call venue to confirm.

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DECEMBER 2017 | charlotteparent.com

PLANNING A

BIRTHDAY PARTY?

CharlotteParent.com/partyplanning

›

DADDY DEREK

A Merry Reminder That You Don’t Have to do it all

BY DEREK JAMES

B

y now, it’s more than beginning to feel like Christmas — it’s almost here.

Christmas music was playing on the radio long before Thanksgiving, the Hallmark Channel premiered its first new Christmas movie three days before Halloween and I saw Christmas stuff at Crate and Barrel in early October when temperatures were in the 80s. I even read that some Costco stores had Christmas decorations out in August.

Back in August, my boys hadn’t even started asking for things for Christmas and that says a lot. It was all too soon for me.

Understand that I don’t hate Christmas.

This column is no “war” on the holiday. It’s just that when it comes to the materialistic side of Christmas, I have a problem with the rush and the worry over things that don’t matter all that much. I don’t enjoy being frazzled because I’m trying to get everything done on time.

Anxiousness is my enemy. Why do so many of us wait until the last possible moment before we hurriedly rush about to get ready for the holiday? (As I alluded to above, we’ve had plenty of notice). Who wouldn’t love to be able to enjoy a relaxing Saturday before Christmas free of trips to Harris Teeter or SouthPark Mall?

My wife and I wait until the last minute because we always have more pressing things to tend to in the weeks leading up to Christmas day. As parents, we have birthday gifts to buy for friends of our kids, school concerts, kids’ sports, church activities, scouts or chess club in addition to the daily hustle and bustle of homework, dinner, bath and reading time. Fitting those things in can

Finding time to just enjoy the season in your pajamas and relax with your family is worth a lot. Photo by Derek James be exhausting enough even on days when there isn’t anything on the calendar.

Many parents, myself included, feel it necessary to always say yes. Often times we even say yes to things on behalf of our kids that they aren’t that interested in doing.

I’m working on taking a moment to think before I say yes. My wife and I are also making a point to ask our children if they really want to do certain activities before committing. And we try to set and stick to reasonable limits for shopping, parties and going out to restaurants.

A couple things that help keep me stay sane during the holidays include having some semblance of a schedule by spreading things out the best we can as a family, and treating myself to a little pick-me-up every so often. For me, that can mean getting the most enormous coffee Dunkin Donuts makes. If I’m feeling especially stressed out, my seasonal go-to is a Peppermint Chocolate Chip Milkshake from Chick-Fil-A. It makes me jolly.

Even schedules can get out of hand.

Sometimes, you just need to chill. If you don’t get everything done on the day you expected, it’s not the end of the world.

Spending time with your loved ones is eminently more important than checking todo’s off a list. No one is going to remember the year your Christmas lights were a little off or that time you didn’t bake as many varieties of cookies.

Let’s not forget that the whole reason for the season is giving and appreciating the blessings we continue to receive — and not about running around stressed for weeks on end. That said, I was just reminded by the Elf on the Shelf that I need to pick up a special delivery before the store closes today.

Enjoy what’s left of the season. Merry Christmas and happy holidays — all of them.

I’m just saying.

Derek James is a WCCB News Rising anchor and lives in Charlotte with his wife and their two sons who are age 6 and 9.

charlotteparent.com | DECEMBER 2017

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FACES & PLACES

My son and our new puppy, Gus, are two peas in a pod. They both somehow end up in my bed, but who wouldn’t want to wake up to these two cuties? Photo and memory by Ashley Stockton of Waxhaw.

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Photos by Todd Rosenberg