Mahaffey Theater, 400 First St. S., St. Petersburg, 727-898-2100, mahaffeytheater.com.

Palladium Theater, 253 Fifth Ave. N., St. Petersburg, 727-822-3590, mypalladium.org.

Ruth Eckerd Hall, 1111 N. McMullen-Booth Road, Clearwater, 727-791-7400, rutheckerdhall.com.

Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center, 1010 N. MacInnes Place, downtown Tampa, 813-229-7827, tbpac.org.

Van Wezel Performing Arts Center, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, 941-953-3366, vanwezel.org.

ART EXHIBITS AND HOLIDAY SHOPPING

Holiday Art Sale Featuring discounted original paintings, drawings, photography, ceramics, and holiday gifts as well as free cider and cookies for all shoppers. Proceeds benefit Project Return, a nonprofit that provides educational, vocational and supportive housing services to people with mental illnesses. 11 p.m.-4 p.m. Sat.-Sun., Dec. 9-10. Free admission. The Lobby Gallery 2 @ Project Return, 303 W. Waters Ave., Tampa.

Annual Christmas Show and Sale Select from a variety of unique holiday gifts, including ceramics, jewelry, paintings, prints, cards, books and more created by Eckerd College students and faculty. On display through Dec. 8, 10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Mon.-Fri. Free admission. Elliott Gallery-Eckerd College, 4200 54th Ave. S., St. Petersburg, 727-864-8340.

20th Annual Holiday Show and Sale Dunedin Fine Art Center is decked out in its usual holiday finery — Christmas trees with handmade ornaments and the like, all available for purchase — and its 2006 holiday exhibition, Present-Perfect, features a range of media by local artists, from pastels and colored pencil works to jewelry, pottery sculpture and photography. Through Dec. 22, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Wed. and Fri., 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Thurs., 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sat., 1-4 p.m. Sun. Free admission. 1143 Michigan Blvd., Dunedin, 727-298-3322, dfac.org.

Holiday House & Gift Market The Pasco Arts Council sparkles with seasonal decor, stocking stuffers and a large assortment of fine handcrafted items by community artists. Through Dec. 22, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Mon.-Sat. Free admission. 5744 Moog Road, Holiday, 727-845-7322.

50 Below Sale Progress Energy Art Gallery is stocked with Chanukah and Christmas items, stocking stuffers, hand woven scarves and purses, jewelry, prints, cards and many other fine art pieces created by local artists and priced at $50 or less. Through Dec. 23, noon-8 p.m. Wed.-Sat. Free admission. 6231 Grand Blvd., New Port Richey, 727-848-6500.

All I Want … and More!!! Holiday Member's Show Florida Craftsmen Gallery presents an exhibit of original, holiday-themed fine craft works in wood, fiber, glass, clay, metal, mixed media, paper and jewelry by Florida artists and craftspeople. Through Dec. 30, 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Mon.-Sat., noon-4 p.m. Sun. Free admission. 501 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, 727-821-7391, floridacraftsmen.net.

Stargazing: Holiday Stars of The Arts Center A variety of media — holiday-themed and otherwise — by artists who've been featured at the center over the past several years, as well as new works by center instructors. Through Dec. 31, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Sat., noon-4 p.m. Sun. Free admission. 719 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, 727-822-7872, theartscenter.org.

BENEFITS AND FUNDRAISERS

St. Petersburg Museum of History Holiday Party, Lecture and Membership Drive The museum concludes its 2006 Wine & Cheese Lecture Series with a talk about the history of toys, game boards and other retro playthings by Tim Walsh, historian and author of Timeless Toys. 6:30-9 p.m. Thurs., Dec. 7. $5 guests (free to members). 335 Second Ave. N.E., St. Petersburg, 727-894-1052.

19th Annual Madrigal Dinner — A Victorian Yule Feast Dine on a scrumptious gourmet meal prepared by the Wine Cellar Restaurant while enjoying a performance of holiday songs by the Eckerd College Concert Choir and Eckerd Ringers, Victorian costumes, tables decorated with genuine Waterford crystal and a comedy performance by the Players. Proceeds go toward the Concert Choir's 2007 Spring Tour. 6:15-9:30 p.m. Thurs.-Sat., Dec. 7-9. $70. The Marly Room — Museum of Fine Arts, 255 Beach Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. Call 727-864-8222 to make reservations.

Home is Where the Heart Is Holiday Stroll Attendees stroll along the Davis Islands waterfront during this block party, which features live music and entertainment, holiday lights and decorations, food, wine and more. Proceeds benefit Kid's Charity of Tampa Bay. 6-10:30 p.m. Fri., Dec. 8. Blanca Avenue, Davis Islands. For more info, call 813-263-3469.

Uhuru Holiday Pie Sale Want to enjoy a delicious holiday pie without going through the hassle of making it yourself? If so, the Uhuru offer fresh-baked, made-from-scratch apple crumb ($12), pumpkin ($8) and sweet potato pies ($10), which are available for pick-up Dec. 16 and 23 at the Saturday Morning Market (Central Avenue and First Street N., St. Petersburg), and Dec. 22 and 24 at the Uhuru Solidarity Center (541 16th St. N., St. Petersburg). Proceeds support the African People's Education & Defense Fund programs. To order pies, call 727-824-5685 or visit apedf.org.

Lights of Lake Park Estates Each year, the residents of Lake Park Estates light up the neighborhood to celebrate the holidays and raise money for the Hospice of the Florida Suncoast. 6:30-10 p.m. Sun.-Thurs., 6:30-11 p.m. Fri.-Sat., through Dec. 31. Donations appreciated. For directions to the Seminole address, call 727-586-4432 or visit thehospice.org.

Lights of Love: Helen Ellis Memorial Hospital Christmas Tree Lighting Santa is present at this tree lighting to benefit the Helen Ellis Hospital Auxiliary. 7 p.m. Thurs., Dec. 7. 1395 S. Pinellas Ave., Tarpon Springs, 727-942-5048.

19th Annual Deck the Halls Sale Peruse an assortment of handmade ornaments ($5 each) produced by artists from all over Florida. All proceeds benefit The Hospice of the Florida Suncoast. 5:30-9 p.m. Sat., Dec. 9. Artspace, 10 Fifth St. N., St. Petersburg, 727-804-7004, artspaceartists.com

24th Annual Jingle Bell Run The Boley Center, a nonprofit organization that serves people with emotional, psychiatric and behavioral problems, hosts its holiday fundraiser at which men, women and children can participate in a non-competitive walk, jog or run along the waterfront. 7:30 p.m. Wed., Dec. 13. The Pier, 800 Second Ave. N.E., St. Petersburg. To register ($15 in advance/$18 day of event adults, $10/$12 children), go to www.bolycenters.org or call 727-821-4819.

PARADES, LIGHTS, FESTIVALS, SPECIAL EVENTS

Seasonal Sensations — an Illuminated Garden More than 425,000 lights adorn the Florida Botanical Gardens in celebration of the holidays. 5-10 p.m. nightly, through Jan 3. Free admission. 12175 125th St. N., Largo, flbg.org.

Trees & Traditions A collection of holiday trees decorated in colorful global themes dot the Heritage Village Visitor Center galleries, and holiday decorations adorn buildings throughout the village. Through Dec. 31. Free admission (donations accepted). 11909 125th St. N., Pinewood Cultural Park, Largo, 727-582-2123.

ICE! Gaylord Palms hosts this annual holiday attraction, a winter wonderland hand-carved from nearly two million pounds of ice. The display includes interactive environments and scenes, like a holiday train and depot and life-size nativity as well as larger-than-life, three-dimensional ice monuments and sculptures. On display through Jan. 2; Call for hours. $16.99-$24.99 adults/$9.99 ages 4-12. Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center, 6000 W. Osceola Parkway, Kissimmee, 407-586-4423, gaylordpalms.com/ice.

The Christmas House Owners Ted and Kim Kresge have been putting on the lights at this St. Petersburg mainstay since 1977 and the shining spectacle has only grown each year. The extensive display takes at least three months to complete and features 400 moving and animated figures, a huge manger scene, artificial snow flurries, a wall of lights, a fiber optic forest and much more. 6-10 p.m. nightly, through Jan. 3. Free (donations gratefully accepted). 2700 Oakdale St. S., St. Petersburg. Visit christmasdisplay.org for directions.

25th Annual Victorian Christmas Stroll Take a step back into the 19th century as the Henry B. Plant Museum is transformed into the Tampa Bay Hotel of 1891. Twenty-five richly decorated trees line the halls and rooms, and lush greenery, decorations and elegantly-wrapped packages are scattered throughout. 10 a.m.-8 p.m. daily, through Dec. 23. $10 adults/$4 children 12 and younger (reduced admission Mondays and Tuesdays: $6 adults/$3 children). 401 W. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa, 813-258-7302, plantmuseum.com.

Seventh Annual Wild Wonderland Lowry Park Zoo's winter festival features seasonal lights and holiday displays throughout the zoo, live reindeer appearances, a "Jingle Bell Narrated Carriage Ride," holiday carolers and live bands, themed games, visits with Santa and more. $13 adults ($9.95 members)/$11 ages 3 to 11 ($7.50 members; children 2 and younger enter free). 6-9 p.m. Dec. 8-11, 14-17, 20-23 and 26-30. 1101 W. Sligh Ave., Tampa, 813-935-8552, lowryparkzoo.com.

Still No Room at the Inn ASAP Homeless Services hosts its 20th annual event, at which participants carol through downtown St. Petersburg to Straub Park (Beach Drive and Fifth Avenue N.E.). The event is preceded by a free cookout at the ASAP Drop-In Center (423 11th Ave. S., St. Petersburg) and followed by free cookies and hot chocolate at Straub Park. 7-9 p.m. Fri., Dec. 8. For more info, call 727-823-5665.

18th Annual MarineMax Lighted Boat Parade Music and festivities begin at 6:30 p.m. at The Pier (800 Second Ave. N.E., St. Petersburg); decorated boats set sail around 7 p.m. and are visible from Vinoy Park (501 Bayshore Drive N.), Straub Park (Beach Drive and Fifth Avenue N.E.) and Demens Landing (Bayshore Drive and Second Avenue S.). All proceeds go to The Children's Dream Fund. Fri., Dec. 8. For more information, call 727-821-6443.

Clearwater Holiday Parade A night parade with plenty of illuminated floats, costumed Krewes, clown troupes, collector cars and trucks, marching bands and more. 7-9 p.m. Fri., Dec. 8. Cleveland Street, downtown Clearwater. For more info, call 727-562-4813.

Christmas Jamboree Visit an early 19th-century home, sawmill, print shop and blacksmith shop while listening to live bluegrass and folk music, sipping hot apple cider and nibbling sugar cookies, and participating in some old-fashioned holiday activities and shopping. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sat., Dec. 9. Free admission. Pinellas Pioneer Settlement, 2900 31st St. S., St. Petersburg, 727-893-7326.

Eighth Annual Holiday Faire The School of the Suncoast presents a day of gift-making activities for children, a marionette puppet play, live music, an organic lunch, baked goods, hand-crafted items and more. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Sat., Dec. 9. Free admission. 2476 Nursery Road, Clearwater. Call 727-532-0696 for more information.

Dunedin's Happy Holly Days Celebration Festivities include live entertainment, an arts and crafts show and children's activities from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with the parade and tree-lighting beginning at 7:15 p.m. Sat., Dec. 9. Free admission. Edgewater Park, 51 Main St., Dunedin, 727-298-3260.

Creating Gifts for Backyard Wildlife Learn how to make attractive food treats to keep your furred and feathered neighbors happy throughout the holidays. 11 a.m. Sat., Dec. 9. Free admission. Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg, 727-453-6500.

Palm Harbor 24th Annual Community Holiday Parade The parade travels down Florida Avenue to 11th Street, where Santa makes an appearance. 3 p.m. Sat., Dec. 9. For more info, call 727-771-6000.

Palms and Poinsettia Holiday Celebration Featuring holiday decorations, children's craft activities, holiday music, a palm tree lighting and meetings with Santa in the gazebo. 4-7 p.m. Sat., Dec. 9. Free admission. Ulmer Park, 301 West Bay Drive, Largo.

Winterfest Holiday Festival Diversions include holiday music, holiday entertainers, the arrival of Santa Claus, a Santa's Village, holiday lights, hayrides, ice carving demonstrations, holiday crafts, bouncy houses, snow and more. 5-9 p.m. Sat., Dec. 9. Free admission. Seminole City Park, 7464 Ridge Road, Seminole, 727-391-8345.

St. Pete Beach and South Pasadena Illuminated Boat Parade The procession departs from the historic Merry Pier (801 Pass-A-Grille Way) at 5:45 p.m., and runs through the channels of St. Pete Beach and South Pasadena. The public can watch the parade from Merry Pier and boaters are invited to take part. Sat., Dec. 9. For more information, call 727-363-2146.

21st Annual Gulfport Lighted Boat Parade The parade launches from the Boca Ciega Yacht Club (4600 Tifton St. S.) at 6 p.m., sails past the city pier and municipal beach, and through several areas along Boca Ciega Bay. Sat., Dec. 9. For more information, call 727-321-7295.

34th Annual Pinellas Park Christmas Parade Illuminated and old-fashioned decorated floats mark the evening parade, which begins at 6 p.m. at Park Boulevard and 58th Street, and proceeds east down Park to 40th Street. Sat., Dec. 9. For more info, visit pinellasparkholidayparade.com.

Sixth Annual Hillsborough River Holiday Boat Parade Motorboats, kayaks and canoes meet at the Lowry Park ramp at 5:30 p.m., and pass the illuminated Sulphur Springs Tower, ending at Hanna's Whirl. Spectators can view the procession at the Sulphur Springs Pool Complex (713 E. Bird St., Tampa). 6-8 p.m. Sat., Dec. 9. For more info, call 813-237-8497 or e-mail friendsofriver@tampabay.rr.com.

Tarpon Springs Lighted Boat Parade The vessels proceed down the Anclote River and into the bayous where Santa hands out treats to the children in Spring Bayou. 6 p.m. Sat., Dec. 9. Call 727-942-5628 details.

Lunch with Santa Old Saint Nick flies in via helicopter to have lunch with local children at Albert Whitted Airport. 11:30 a.m. Sun., Dec. 10. $5. 107 Eighth Ave. S.E., St. Petersburg, 727-822-1532.

Museum of Fine Arts Holiday Open House Enjoy free admission to the museum, a Victorian-style Christmas tree in the Great Hall, artistic crèche, Hanukkah menorahs, a Kwanzaa display and performance by the Soulful Arts Dance Academy, visits with Santa Claus, Nan Colton's interactive presentation, "Seasonal Stories," ornament-making and more. 1-4 p.m. Sun., Dec. 10. 255 Beach Drive N.E., St. Petersburg.

Holiday Parade of Homes Tour apartment homes with a variety of floor plans at Allegro at East Lake in Tarpon Springs and enjoy holiday songs by the Sunset Serenade Barbershop Quartet, eggnog and fresh baked holiday cookies and treats, a performance by The Allegros' resident chime choir and more. 1-4 p.m. Wed., Dec. 13. For directions or to R.S.V.P. please call 727-943-8878.

Make Your Holidays "Green" Learn about more environmentally-friendly ideas for wrapping presents and creating decorations that are naturally attractive. 2 p.m. Sun., Dec. 17. Free. Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg, 727-453-6500.

Tarpon Springs Annual Christmas Parade The procession travels through downtown Tarpon on U.S. Alternate 19 and is followed by a party at Craig Park. Sat., Dec. 16. For more info, call 727-937-6109.

A Child's Christmas in Wales USF faculty member David Mann performs a reading of Dylan Thomas' poem to his hometown of Wales; held as part of the Tampa Museum of Art's Sunday Series. 2 p.m. Sun., Dec. 17. $8 adults/$6 seniors/$3 students and children. Tampa Museum of Art, 600 N. Ashley Drive, downtown Tampa, 813-274-8732.

Indian Shores and Redington Beaches 24th Annual Boat Parade Lighted boats leave from the Tom Stuart (Madeira Beach) Causeway at 6 p.m., and cover a route along the Intracoastal Waterway, to finish at the Pub Restaurant, 20025 Gulf Blvd. The Pub hosts an awards ceremony and refreshments for boat captains at 9:30 p.m. Sun., Dec. 17. For more information, call 727-421-0885.

MUSIC

Christmas Cabaret A family-friendly musical revue of Christmas favorites and unusual holiday numbers, from "12 Pains of Christmas" to "Santa Brought Me Prozac." 7:30 p.m. Tues.-Fri., 2 and 7:30 p.m. Sat., 4 p.m. Sun., through Dec. 31. $29.50. Jaeb Theater-Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center (see Address Box).

'Tis the Season This Coffee Concert with Susan Haig, The Florida Orchestra and TFO Young Artist Winner, cellist Caroline Bean, features performances of Tchaikovsky's Symphony No. 1, Winter Daydreams, Rimsky-Korsakov's Christmas Eve: Suite, Schumann's Cello Concerto and others. 11 a.m. Thurs., Dec. 7. $18-$29. Mahaffey Theater (see Address Box).

Kathy Mattea: Songs and the Season The folk-based roots singer/songwriter performs her own songs as well as numbers from her 2002 release, Joy for Christmas Day. 8 p.m. Thurs., Dec. 7. $20-$45.50. Ferguson Hall-Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center.

Merry Chriskwanzanukah! Shana Banana's annual holiday show for children. 9:30 and 11:30 a.m. Sat., Dec. 9. $7. Mahaffey Theater.

Ozark Mountain Christmas Show The Yearys perform heartfelt holiday comedy and sing some old favorites made famous by entertainers like Bing Crosby and Brenda Lee. 2 and 7 p.m. Sat., Dec. 9. $16-$20. PHCC Performing Arts Center, 10230 Ridge Road, New Port Richey, 727-816-3707.

Handel's Messiah The Christmas portion of Handel's Messiah, under the direction of Nancy Callahan, is performed 6 p.m. Sat., Dec. 9, at Bayshore Baptist Church (3111 W. Morrison Ave., Tampa) and 6 p.m. Sun., Dec. 10, at Palma Ceia Presbyterian Church (3501 San Jose St., Tampa). Donations appreciated. For more info, call 813-253-6047 or visit palmaceiapress.org.

Tuba Christmas A holiday sing-along with tuba, baritone and euphonium performances by volunteer musicians of all ages. 7 p.m. Sat., Dec. 9. Free admission. The Pier, 800 2nd Ave. N.E., St. Petersburg, 727-821-6443, www.stpete-pier.com.

The North Pole Talent Show Una Voce: The Florida Men's Chorale perform a program of holiday music, from traditional favorites like "Lo, How a Rose E'er Blooming" to themes from The Nutcracker. 7 p.m. Sat., Dec. 9. $10. Lakewood United Methodist Church of Christ, 2601 54th Ave. S., St. Petersburg.

Sing We All Noel Sing along to some seasonal favorites with SPC Concert Chorus and the Sarasota Concert Band. 2 p.m. Sun., Dec. 10. $8-$12 ($2 off to those in seasonal wear). Palladium Theater (see Address Box).

Everlasting Light Christmas Concert A festive program of Christmas music with full orchestral accompaniment presented by the Eckerd College Concert Choir, Eckerd Ringers, and the First United Methodist Church Chancel Choir and Children's Choir. 5:30 p.m. Sun., Dec. 10. Free (donations gratefully accepted). First United Methodist Church, 212 Third St. N., St. Petersburg, 727-894-4661.

The Colors of Christmas Featuring performances by Peabo Bryson, James Ingram, Stephanie Mills and Deniece Williams. 8 p.m. Tues., Dec. 12. $45-$65. Van Wezel Performing Arts Center (see Address Box).

The Moscow Boys Choir: Christmas Around the World The repertoire includes lively carols from Russia, Europe and North America — many performed in their original language — along with classic holiday favorites. 7:30 p.m. Thurs., Dec. 14. $15 general/$13 members and students. Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center, 324 Pine Street, Tarpon Springs, 727-942-5605.

An Elvis Christmas Elvis impressionist Doug Wilson performs with the Fabulous TCB Legends Band. 7:30 p.m. Thurs., Dec. 14. $24 in advance/$27 day of show. Largo Cultural Center, 105 Central Park Drive, Largo, 727-587-6793.

Preservation Hall Jazz Band: Creole Christmas A holiday concert by the nine-member New Orleans-based band. 8 p.m. Thurs., Dec. 14. $19.50 and $32.50. Ferguson Hall-Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center.

A Celtic Yuletide Famed Irish tenor Michael Londra (Riverdance) performs with other Irish musicians in an evening of Christmas music and dance. 5 and 8 p.m. Sat., Dec. 16. $22 in advance/$25 day of show/$15 students. Largo Cultural Center, 105 Central Park Drive, Largo, 727-587-6793.

Ellington Christmas The Nate Najar Trio and guests perform jazzified holiday favorites and a new adaptation of the Ellington "Jazz Nutcracker." 7:30 p.m. Sat., 2 p.m. Sun., Dec. 16-17. $20. Palladium Theater.

Holiday Swing Presented by the 18-member Ten O'clock Swing Band. 2 and 6 p.m. Sun., Dec. 17. $14 in advance/$17 day of show. Largo Cultural Center, 105 Central Park Drive, 727-587-6793.

Many Moods of Christmas Concert The Chancel Choir and an intimate orchestra of woodwinds and brass perform this holiday concert with a program that includes a cantata with narrative, "Together for Christmas," by Pepper Choplin as well as "Emmanuel," "Silent Night," "The Snow Lay on the Ground" and many others. 4 p.m. Sun., Dec. 17. Donations gratefully accepted to benefit the St. Petersburg Free Clinic. First Presbyterian Church Sanctuary, 701 Beach Dr. N.E., St. Petersburg, 727-822-2031.

A Peter White Christmas Featuring Rick Braun and Mindi Abair. 8 p.m. Wed., Dec. 20. $35-$45. Ruth Eckerd Hall (see Address Box).

Deck the Hall with Divas! The larger-than-life women's song and dance ensemble performs nostalgic favorites and funny ditties, including "I'll Be Home for Christmas," "Chanukah Hoedown" and "Santa Brought Me Prozac This Year." 8 p.m. Thurs., Dec. 21. $18 general/$16 members and students. Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center, 324 Pine Street, Tarpon Springs, 727-942-5605.

Holiday Jazz with Fred Johnson The acclaimed jazz musician performs holiday favorites in a festive cabaret setting. 7:30 and 10 p.m. Fri., Dec. 22. $10-$15. Ruth Eckerd Hall.

A Rockapella Holiday The a cappella quintet performs doo-wop harmonies and pop-rock-jazz arrangements of seasonal standards. 8 p.m. Fri., Dec. 22. $30 adults/$21 children 12 and younger. Tampa Theatre, 711 Franklin St., Tampa, 813-274-8286, www.tampatheatre.org.

THEATER AND DANCE

It's A Wonderful Life: The Musical The Salerno Theatre Company produces this musical version of Frank Capra's holiday classic. 8 p.m. Thurs.-Sat., 2 p.m. Sun., through Dec. 10. $21 adults/$18 seniors and children ages 11 and younger. Catherine Hickman Theater, 5501 27th Ave. S., Gulfport. 727-552-2222.

The Great Russian Nutcracker Moscow Ballet's production features a cast of 50 dancers, live musical accompaniment by the Moscow Symphony Orchestra, lush costumes, spectacular sets and scenic design by Valentine Federov, larger-than-life puppets, and a sneak peek into Drosselmeier's workshop. 7:30 p.m. Fri.-Sat., Dec. 8-9. $27-$65. Mahaffey Theater.

The Nutcracker Guilfoil Ballet Theater produces its fourth annual Nutcracker performance with dancers from Clearwater, Orlando and Kissimmee. 7:30 p.m. Fri., Dec. 8. $10. Palladium Theater.

The Nutcracker Miami City Ballet teams up with students from local dance studios to produce the holiday classic as interpreted by George Balanchine, which features Tchaichovsky's timeless score performed live by The Florida Orchestra. 8 p.m. Fri., 1 p.m. Sat., 2 p.m. Sun., Dec. 8-10. $29.50-$45.50. Ruth Eckerd Hall.

Greetings! The Carrollwood Players perform Tom Dudzick's warm holiday comedy about the inevitable hijinks that ensue when a young man brings his Jewish-atheist fiancée home to meet his Catholic parents on Christmas Eve; Pat Connolly directs. 8 p.m. Fri.-Sat., through Dec. 9. $14 adults/$12 children, seniors and students. Carrollwood Playhouse, 4333 Gunn Highway, Tampa. 813-265-4000.

The Oft Told Story A family-friendly musical about the birth of Jesus told from the animals' point-of-view, and featuring a mix of traditional Christmas Carols and original songs. 2 and 8 p.m. Sat., 2 p.m. Sun., Dec. 9-10. $10 adults/$5 children under 12. St. Petersburg Little Theatre, 4025 31st St. S., St. Petersburg, 727-866-1973.

Venue Actors Studio Youth Theatre Holiday Showcase Featuring performances of Peter Pan, Princess Impossible and Vanished — The Case of the Missing Santa by members of Venue Little Bits Theatre, Venue Young Actors and Venue Teen Theatre. 2:30 p.m. Sat.-Sun., Dec. 9-10 and 16-17. $7 general (family five-packs are $30). Venue Actors Studio, Mainlands Plaza, 9125 U.S. 19 N., Pinellas Park, 727-822-6194.

The Nutcracker American Dance Academy along with dancers from Harmony Studios and guest artists from New York and Florida perform the holiday classic with all new props, scenery and costumes. 1 and 6 p.m. Sat.-Sun., Dec. 9-10. $16 general/$12 students 19 and younger. Largo Cultural Center, 501 Central Park Drive, Largo, 727-587-6793.

Tampa Theatre's Winter Classic Movie Series White Christmas, 3 p.m. Sun., Dec. 10; Holiday Inn, 3 p.m. Sun., Dec. 17; It's a Wonderful Life, 3 p.m. Sun., Dec. 24. $7.50 adults/$6 students, seniors and military. Tampa Theatre, 711 Franklin St., Tampa, 813-274-8286, tampatheatre.org.

The Eight: Reindeer Monologues Scandal erupts at the North Pole when one of Santa's eight reindeer accuses him of sexual harassment. Find out what really happened as the rest of the reindeer speak up in Jeff Goode's dark Christmas comedy; produced by Gypsy Productions and directed by Trevor Keller. 8 p.m. Thurs.-Sat., 1:30 p.m. Sun., through Dec. 17. $18. Suncoast Theatre, 3000 34th St. S., St. Petersburg. 727-644-7077.

A Gorilla Winter Gorilla Theater produces a program that includes The Long Christmas Dinner, Thornton Wilder's play that follows an American family through 90-years worth of Christmases, and Maury Yeston's December Songs, a song cycle about the resilience of the human spirit. 7 p.m. Thurs., 8 p.m. Fri.-Sat., 3 p.m. Sun., through December 17. $20-25 adults/$15-$20 seniors and students. Gorilla Theatre, 4419 N. Hubert Avenue, Tampa, 813-879-2914.

Journey to the Manger A Christmas musical about a man who journeys back through Christmas celebrations of the past and discovers the real meaning of the time-honored holiday. 7 p.m. Fri., 3 p.m. Sun., Dec. 15 and 17. Free admission. First Unity Church, 469 45th Ave. N., St. Petersburg, 727/527-2222, firstunity.org.

It Had To Be You This touring revival of the hit Broadway comedy — written by and starring Renée Taylor — is about a struggling B-movie actress who takes a successful television commercial director hostage on a snowy Christmas Eve. 8 p.m. Mon.-Tues., 2 and 8 p.m. Wed. and Sat., 2 p.m. Sun., Dec. 18-24. $30. Van Wezel Performing Arts Center.

The Nutcracker Another version of the holiday classic, this one performed by Orlando Ballet with more than 100 students from Tampa and Orlando dance schools, and featuring live accompaniment by the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra. 7:30 p.m. Thurs., 8 p.m. Fri., 2 and 8 p.m. Sat., Dec. 21-23. $18.50-$54.50. Carol Morsani Hall-Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center.

The Chocolate Nutcracker Enjoy an evening of jazz, Afro-Cuban, hip-hop and gospel music as more than 250 local students perform alongside professional dancers in this unique adaptation of the holiday classic. 7:30 p.m. Fri., 1 and 7:30 p.m. Sat., Dec. 22-23. $32-$52. Mahaffey Theater.

A Christmas Carol A large stage production of the Charles Dickens' classic about Ebenezer Scrooge and the ghosts of Christmas. 2 and 8 p.m. Sat., Dec. 23. $25-$36. Ruth Eckerd Hall.

HANUKKAH EVENTS

Hanukkah Party Latkes, soup, salad and dessert will be served, and guests are encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped children's toy to be donated to Jewish Family Services. 7 p.m. Wed., Dec 13. Congregation B'nai Emmunah, 3374 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. For more information, call 727-726-8626.

Sisterhood Judaica Gift Shop Featuring an abundance of Hanukkah gift items. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Fri., 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Sun., through Dec. 13. Schaarai Zedek, 3303 W. Swann Ave., Tampa, 813-876-2377.

Hanukkah Musical Extravaganza: Revolt in Modi'in Fri., Dec. 15. Congregation B'nai Emmunah, 3374 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. For more information, call 727-726-8626.

Hands on Hanukkah Community Celebration Tampa Jewish Community Center hosts this event, which includes a hot dog and latke lunch, an oil press demonstration, a family Menorah contest, a dreidel competition, a Hanukkah sing-a-long and Israeli dancing, and more. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Sun., Dec. 17 (reservations must be made by Dec. 10). Free admission. 13009 Community Campus Drive, Tampa, 813-264-9000, www.jewishtampa.com.

Hanukkah Bowl Chabad of Brandon hosts an afternoon of bowling, air hockey, foosball and arcade games. A grand dreidel game is planned and attendees also enjoy hot latkes and other treats. 1-3 p.m. Sun., Dec. 17. $10 per person ($36 per family). Brandon Crossroads Bowl, 609 Crater Lane, Brandon. To R.S.V.P., call 813-657-9393.

Hanukkah Concert Hosted by the Chabad Jewish Center of St. Petersburg. 5 p.m. Mon., Dec. 18. Free. 6151 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, 727-344-4900.

Let There Be Light Chabad of Tampa Bay and Brandon host this Hanukkah celebration with the lighting of a giant menorah, live music by Benny Friedman, hot latkes, popcorn and cotton candy, a prize drawing and more. 6-8 p.m. Mon., Dec. 18. Downtown Tampa City Hall Plaza, Franklin Street and Kennedy Boulevard. Call 813-963-2317 for more information.

Wishes For Wellness: Healthy Hanukkah Party An interactive educational program geared toward providing health and wellness information to adults that want to stay active and healthy during the holiday season. 11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Fri., Dec. 22, $3 general (free to members). Golda/Meir Kent Jewish Center, 2010 Greenbriar Blvd., Clearwater, 737-736-1494.

Menorah Madness A short service is followed by a pot luck dinner and live music by the Pittard family. Attendees are encouraged to bring a menorah and candles to light, and a dish to share. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Fri., Dec. 22. Congregation B'nai Emmunah, 3374 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. For more information, call 727-726-8626.

Vodka Latke 2006 A holiday fundraiser for the Young Adult Division of the Tampa Jewish Federation. Sun., Dec. 24. $20 in advance/$25 at the door. Gaspar's Grotto, Ybor City. For information or to R.S.V.P., call 813-769-2103 or e-mail pamela.behar@jewishtampa.com.

VOLUNTEERING AND HOLIDAY DRIVES

RCS Food Bank The Religious Community Services Food Bank — which serves 4,000 clients each month and has approximately 60 distribution sub-sites throughout Pinellas County — seeks volunteers to help with office work, sorting food, delivering and picking up supplies, interviewing clients and more during the holiday season. Donations of baby food, cereal, formula, juices, after school snacks, boxed and canned food items, powdered milk, and plastic and paper grocery bags are also needed. To volunteer or make a donation, call 727-443-4031.

Holiday Toy Drive Hillsborough Association for Women Lawyers ("HAWL") seeks donations for USF's Kinship Care Center, which provides a variety of support services to grandparents and other relatives raising their family members' children. Unwrapped gifts or gift cards should be delivered before December 12 to: Nancy Hutcheson Harris & Associates, P.A., Barrister's Building, 505 E. Jackson St., Suite 306, Tampa. For more info, call 813-281-1900 or 813-223-5421.

Metropolitan Ministries MetMin feeds thousands of homeless and poverty-stricken locals each month and you can lend a hand by volunteering at the holiday center where donations are received, sorted and distributed. For more information, call 813-209-1000. Metropolitan Ministries Holiday Center is located on the 2100 block of N. Florida Avenue in Tampa, and is open through Dec. 24.

NEW YEAR'S EVE CELEBRATIONS

New Year's Eve with Donna the Buffalo Presented by WMNF-88.5 FM; a B.Y.O.B. event. 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Sat., Dec. 31. $35 in advance/$45 at the door. The Coliseum, 535 Fourth Ave. N., St. Petersburg.

First Night 2006 The 13th annual New Year's Eve Celebration of the Arts takes place at 35 different venues throughout downtown St. Petersburg, and features an assortment of alcohol-free, family-oriented activities and diversions including live music and entertainment, dancing, games, art, fireworks and more. 2 p.m.-12:30 a.m. Sun., Dec. 31. $8 adults in advance/$10 day of; $5 ages 6-12 (kids 5 and younger enter for free). Call 727-823-8906 for more information.

The Handmade Holiday Guide