Cheer Up, Buttercup! Dec. 27-Jan. 2

I hope you all had a wonderful holiday season, but it's not over just yet! Friday night marks not only the beginning of 2011, but new possibilities and chances. 
And just in case you weren't sure how to celebrate this fine occasion, Cheer Up Buttercup is here with events all across the city. Start the year off safely, grab a cab or hire a car. Have fun, and have a happy new year!

NEW YEAR'S

New Year's Eve at Capitol Garage
Dinner for two at one flat price. It will include two salads, two entrees, dessert and a bottle of house wine or champagne. Reservations requested as space is limited. Throw in an additional $10 to partake in the New Years Eve reggae dancehall event that will feature live music and DJs, complimentary champagne and ball drop countdown. Must be 21 or older.
$49.95. 4-9 p.m. 1500 K St. 916-444-3633

New Year's Day at Capitol Garage
Enjoy brunch or dinner at Capitol Garage. Bottomless mimosas for $6.95 are available at brunch. Dinner is $49.95 and includes two salads, two entrees, dessert and a bottle of house wine or champagne.
Brunch is 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dinner runs from 4-9:30 p.m. Must be 21 or older.
1500 K St. 916-444-3633

Izabella Family New Year's Eve with Relic 45 at Marilyn's on K
Catch Izabella and Relic 45 perform during this celebration.
$25 advance tickets, $30 at the door. Must be 21 or older.
8 p.m. 908 K St. 916-446-4361

Utz and The Shuttlecocks New Year's Eve Blowout at Harlow's
Ring in the new year and enjoy a good cover band. Must be 21 or older.
$30. 9 p.m. 2708 J St. 916-441-4693

New Year's Jammin'  Eve at the Radisson Hotel
The event features The Bar-Kays, Dazz Band and Slave. There is limited reserved VIP seating. Must be 21 or older.
$56 advanced tickets. $75 at the door. 9:30 p.m. 500 Leisure Lane. 916-922-2020

New Year's Eve at Social
Social Night Club will host DJ J. Espinosa and DJ JB. Advance tickets are $25, $50 at the door. VIP packages are available. Must be 21 or older.
9 p.m. to 3 a.m. 1000 K St. 916-443-9001

New Year's Eve Bash at Barcode Nightclub 
The younger crowd will enjoy this 18 and over party at Barcode. There will be a massive balloon drop, party favors, streamers and confetti.
Ages 18-20 get in for $15. Ages 21 and older get in for $10.
9 p.m. to 2 a.m. 1890 Arden Way. 916-492-1959

New Year's Eve Celebration Aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train
Enter 2011 among softly lit vineyards, masked faces and Venetian-style masquerade celebration. Tickets are available to attend the wine train dinner and after party or the after party only. The after party begins at 10 p.m. For a peek at the menu visit here.
The Gourmet Express Car dinner and after party ticket costs $225. The Vista Dome Car dinner and after party ticket costs $255. An after party ticket costs $55. Must be 21 or older.
5 p.m. to 1 a.m. 1275 McKinstry St., Napa. 800-427-4124

2011 New Year's Eve Wine Fest at Masonic Temple
Celebrate the new 2011 year with wine, music and dancing presented by Sacramento Wine and Nightlife Tours, Inc. There will be an open wine bar, complimentary appetizers, a DJ, live entertainment, and midnight champagne toast. Come single, as a couple, or even bring your kids and take advantage of their nanny service. The nanny service will be operated by licensed professionals and the location will only be open to those who have children using the service. Children 3-14 accepted, $20 for the first child and $10 for each additional.
$89 per person, tickets must be bought in advance. Upscale or cocktail attire requested. Must be 21 or older.
9 p.m. 1123 J St. 916-443-8741

New Year's Eve at the Hyatt
106.5 The Buzz and the Hyatt are teaming up for New Year's Eve. There will be three locations to celebrate: the acoustic lounge, the rooftop nightclub or the main event. Admission includes access to all three locations, and a complimentary drink from the Bubble Bar. Must be 21 or older.
Packages including hotel stay and more are available.
Admission to the party only costs $50.
8 p.m. to 1 a.m. 1209 L St. 916-443-1234

New Year's Eve Cruises on Hornblower in Old Sacramento 
Enjoy the New Year's Eve Cruise aboard a Hornblower yacht. There will be a buffet dinner, three-hour cruise, open standard bar (including champagne and liquors), live music, dancing and festive fireworks. For a copy of the menu, visit here. Must be 21 or older.
7-10 p.m. and 11 p.m. to 1 a.m. Empress Hornblower, 1206 Front St. 916-446-1185.

New Year's Eve at The Park
DJ Peeti V and DJ Billy Lane will spin a mix of hip hop, retro, rock, top 40 and dance. There will be a complimentary champagne toast, party favors, confetti cannons and lavish decorations.
$50. VIP packages are available. Must be 21 or older.
8 p.m. 1116 15th St. 916-442-7222

New Year's Eve at Mix Downtown
Join 100.5FM and DJ David X on the rooftop lounge and nightclub. There will be party favors, a champagne toast and confetti cannons.
$50. VIP packages are available. Must be 21 or older.
Special hotel rates are available at Marriott Residence Inn and The Sheraton Grand.
8 p.m. 1531 L St. 916-802-3036

New Year's Pajama Party at Sacramento Comedy Spot
Celebrate New Year's Eve with comedy, dancing and pajamas. There will be dancing, short comedy shows, party games and the countdown. "Dress code" of pajamas will be enforced. Ticket prices include drinks and snacks.
$20. Tickets must be purchased in advance.
9 p.m. 1050 20th St., Suite 130. 916-444-3137

Best New Year's Eve Party at Po'Boyz Bar and Grill
Two party packages are available. The party admission package costs $15 and includes admission to the party, party favors and a champagne toast at midnight. The complete dinner package costs $50 and includes a drink, a rib dinner with mashed potatoes and vegetables, party favors and a midnight champagne toast. Must be 21 or older.
8 p.m. Party only admission starts at 9:30 p.m. 9580 Oak Avenue Parkway, Folsom. 916-987-2886

Roaring '20s New Year's Eve Celebration at Crescent Club
Join the Crescent Club during the Prohibition Era-themed New Year's Eve party. There will be a speakeasy casino, ballroom swing dancing, Gypsy jazz, cabaret, burlesque and live music. Gangster and Flapper attire is encouraged. Prizes will be awarded for the Most Stunning Flapper outfit, Most Sinister Public Enemy and Best Dressed Couple. Champagne and appetizers will be provided at midnight, as well as special pricing on the Prohibition and Boardwalk Empire Cocktail Menus.
Registrants will receive a password in true Prohibition Era spirit, and must know the password to be admitted.
Advance tickets cost $35. Tickets at the door are $65.
9 p.m. to 2 a.m. 1150 Firehouse Alley. 916-498-9098

New Year's Art Opening and Musical Extravaganza at Beatnik Studios
The new gallery show, "Shades and Scripts," will open as well as performances by Jamaar Wallace, Alyssa Cox and the Happy Medium between 6-9 p.m. Goodness Gracious Me, Prieta, The Kelps and Music Charis will perform between 9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. The theme is '20s speakeasy so costumes are encouraged.
Free admission from 6-9 p.m. $15 after 9 p.m.
2421 17th St. 916-443-5808

Professional Guild's Gala New Year's Eve Party at the Hilton Hotel on Arden West
Singles are especially welcome at this New Year's party. Couples, of course, are welcome too. Mercy Me and the Groove Thang Band will perform in two ballrooms, while DJ Ron Davis will spin in a third. Admission includes two free drink tickets, casino gaming, a range of music, party favors, balloon drop, exhibits, and drawings and prizes.
Hotel packages available.
Free parking. Advance tickets cost $65. Tickets at the door cost $75.
8:30 p.m. 2200 Harvard St. 916-772-7555

Celebrating 100 Years of Service: New Year's Eve 2011 at Haggin Oaks
Celebrate a century of service and the new year with the Greater Sacramento Urban League Young Professionals. Dress code will be strictly enforced. No jeans, white tees, baseball caps or tennis shoes.
$50 per person. $40 if you participate in their "Day of Service" by donating one hour to feed the hungry.
VIP packages available, call 916-995-2015.
3645 Fulton Blvd. 916-286-8694

New Year's Eve Sky Spectacular in Old Sacramento
Join the free celebration in Old Sacramento that will include two fireworks shows (9 p.m. and midnight), drum corps, Radio Disney's Rockin' Road Crew, a youth hip hop presentation, fire dancers and live music.
6 p.m. to 1 a.m. 916-808-7777

New Year's Eve Party at R15
Celebrate with no cover and a new year at R15. There will be $3 cocktails all night and a champagne toast at midnight. Must be 21 or older.
1431 R St. 916-930-9191

MUSIC AND ARTS 

Dec. 28: Fourth Tuesday Films: "Paperback Dreams"
Catch a free screening of "Paperback Dreams, the Life and Times of the Independent Bookstore." The story of two Bay Area independent booksellers will capture the struggles independent business owners face. A discussion will follow the screening, and refreshments will be served.
FREE ADMISSION!
7 p.m. Sacramento Area Peace Action, 909 12th St. #118. 916-448-7157

Dec. 30: Pinback Performs
San Diego duo, Pinback, will perform at Harlow's. Must be 21 or older.
$15. 8 p.m. 2708 J St. 916-441-4693

Jan. 1: The Slackers Perform
The Slackers will perform at Harlow's. Must be 21 or older.
$12. 8 p.m. 2708 J St. 916-441-4693

SPORTS AND OUTDOORS

Dec. 27: Kings vs. Los Angeles Clippers
The Kings will play against the Los Angeles Clippers at Arco Arena.
Tickets start at $15. Don't forget $10 for parking.
7 p.m. 1 Sports Parkway. 916-928-6900

Dec. 29: Kings vs. Memphis Grizzlies
The Memphis Grizzlies will be in Sacramento to play the Kings.
Tickets start at $15. Parking costs $10.
7 p.m. 1 Sports Parkway. 916-928-6900

Jan. 2: Kings vs. Phoenix Suns
The Suns will be at Arco to play the Kings.
Tickets start at $15. Parking costs $10.
6 p.m. 1 Sports Parkway. 916-928-6900

Up Your Holiday Cheer, Buttercup! Dec. 20-Dec. 26

I know, I know, you already have plenty to do this week. Family may be in town, or you may be out. Parties must be attended, or maybe you're acting as host. This week's CUB offers you events to make the holidays that much more festive or to entertain visiting crowds. It's Christmas week so cheer up, buttercup!

HOLIDAY FESTIVITIES

Dec. 21-23: The Nutcracker
The Nutcracker will be performed by the Sacramento Ballet and accompanied by the Sacramento Philharmonic Orchestra.
Tickets range from $15-$68. 1301 L St. 916-808-5181

Dec. 22-24: "White Christmas" Screenings
The classic Christmas film will have limited showings at the Crest Theatre.
The film will be shown at 7 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday. The film will be shown at 1, 3:45 and 7 p.m. on Friday. A special offer is included: everyone who attends a screening will receive a free skate rental coupon for the Westfield ice rink.
General admission is $9.50. Senior, student and matinee price is $6.

Dec. 24: PJ Party Christmas Eve 
Pajamas aren't necessary for this free admission day to the Sacramento Zoo.
FREE ADMISSION! 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Dec. 24: Christmas Eve Service
Christmas Eve service and worship will begin at 6 p.m. at the Faith United Methodist Church.
3600 J St. 916-452-7637

Dec. 26: Snow Flurry
Celebrate the holiday season and learn about snowflakes at the Discovery Museum Science and Space Center. Children ages 12 and younger can design a snowflake wreath.
Members get in free, adults get in for $6. Seniors and teens ages 13-17 get in for $5. Children ages 4-12 get in for $4. Children ages 3 and younger get in free.
12:30-4 p.m. 3615 Auburn Blvd. 916-808-3942

Dec. 26: Kwanzaa Family Festival
Sponsored by Target. This museum-wide festival at the Crocker will celebrate its new African art collection. There will be music and dance performances by Umoja Productions; Afia Walking Tree and Spirit Drumz; PROJECT; and Pheonix Park Multicultural Kids Choir. Culture Co-op will do a storytelling with a special puppet production, "Hamissi the Brave." There will be a unique art workshop, African Diaspora cooking demonstration, an arts and crafts marketplace, free air brush tattoos and a special exhibition organized by The Kuumba Collective Art Gallery titled, "Mud Cloth Madness."
12-4 p.m. 216 O St. 916-808-7000

FAMILY AND PETS

Dec. 24: Free Admission Day to Fairytale Town
Get in for free as a holiday gift from Fairytale Town to you.
FREE ADMISSION! 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 3901 Land Park Dr. 916-808-7462

MUSIC AND ARTS

Dec. 21: Colleen Lloy Performs
Colleen Lloy will have a live performance at Harlow's. Must be 21 or older.
$8. 7 p.m. 2708 J St. 916-441-4693

Dec. 22: Dane Drewis and Cuesta Drive Annual Reunion
Dane Drewis and Cuesta Drive will perform live at Marilyn's on K. Must be 21 or older.
$10. 9 p.m. 908 K St. 916-446-4361

Dec. 26: "Things to Come" Screening
Catch the screening of the 1936 film (written by H.G. Wells) at The Guild Theater thanks to Movies on a Big Screen. Lobby doors open 30 minutes before the film begins.
$5. $5.50 through Ticketleap.
7:30 p.m. 2828 35th St. 916-736-1185

SPORTS AND OUTDOORS

Dec. 21: Kings vs. Golden State Warriors
The Kings will play the Golden State Warriors at Arco Arena. Don't forget $10 for parking.
Tickets start at $15.
7 p.m. 1 Sports Parkway. 916-928-6900

Dec. 23: Kings vs. Milwaukee Bucks
The Kings will play the Milwaukee Bucks at Arco Arena. Parking costs $10 per car.
Tickets start at $15.
7 p.m. 1 Sports Parkway. 916-928-6900

Cheer Up, Buttercup! Dec. 13-Dec. 19

This holiday season is unfortunately mixed with financial troubles for some. But that doesn't mean the month has to be any less festive. Attend a free holiday story time with your kids where they can get complimentary cookies and hot chocolate, or maybe participate in Sacramento's SantaCon. Put more emphasis on experiences than expenses by adding some extra family time or holiday cheer to your week. 

FAMILY AND PETS

Dec. 15: Children's Holiday Story Time

California State Library will hold story time filled with stories from traditional holiday children's books. For a list of books and who will be reading, take a peek at their flyer. Appropriate for children ages 2-12. Cookies and hot chocolate will be served to children. 

All children must be accompanied by an adult. 

FREE ADMISSION! 4:30-8 p.m. 900 N St., Lobby Rotunda. 916-653-9942

Dec. 17: Holiday Teen Movie Party

Got bored teens? Keep them entertained and get them in the holiday spirit by sending them to the Franklin Community Library for a free screening of a holiday comedy classic. 

FREE ADMISSION! 1-3 p.m. 10055 Franklin High Rd., Elk Grove. 916-264-2700

Dec. 18: Christmas Memories at the Governor's Mansion

Experience the holidays the way 13 past governors and their families enjoyed it at the Governor's Mansion. There will be docents in period costume and lavish re-created period decor. Bring the kids to take pictures with Mr. and Mrs. Claus. 
Adults get in for $5, children ages 6-17 get in for $3. Children 5 and younger get in free. 
1526 H St. 916-323-3047

Dec. 18: Family Movie Matinee

Relax with the family at Franklin Community Library for Family Movie Matinee featuring the film, "How to Train Your Dragon." 

FREE ADMISSION! AND FREE POPCORN!  

1:30-3:30 p.m. 10055 Franklin High Rd., Elk Grove. 916-264-2700

MUSIC AND ARTS

Dec. 14: Focus on Legal Issues for Photographers Workshop

California Lawyers for the Arts will hold this workshop to discuss legal issues surrounding the use and sale of photographic images. Topics included will be: ownership, reproduction, copyright, manipulation, model and property releases. Bay Area attorney and photographer Amitai Schwartz will lead the discussion. 

CLA members pay $10, CLA senior citizen and student members get in for $5. General public gets in for $20.

7-8:30 p.m. Appel Gallery Fine Arts Photography, 931 T St. 916-442-6210

Dec. 14: Soulive Performs

Soullive will perform at Harlow's. Must be 21 or older.

$20. 9 p.m. 2708 J St. 916-441-4693

Dec. 14: Wires and Wood: An Evening with Dylan and Gram Parsons

Dylan and Gram Parsons will perform at Marilyn's on K. 

FREE ADMISSION! 8 p.m. 908 K St. 916-446-4361

Dec. 15: Dennis Johnson and Mississippi Ramblers with Alyssa Cox

The musicians will perform at Marilyn's on K. 

$8. 7:30 p.m. 908 K St. 916-446-4361

Dec. 15: International Academy of Design and Technology's Holiday Open House

IADT will host their Holiday Open House where they will take guests' holiday photos and give fashion tips for the season. 

FREE ADMISSION! 

4:30-6 p.m. 2450 Del Paso Blvd., Suite 250. 916-285-9468

Dec. 15: Radio City Christmas Spectacular Starring The Rockettes

The Rockettes have embarked on their Christmas Spectacular National Tour. Adults and children ages 2-12 will enjoy seeing The Rockettes perform during their new touring production. Larger than life sets and an 80 foot-high LCD screen will enhance this holiday spectacular. 

Tickets range from $47.50-$89. Children's tickets online are $10 off with the code "Child." Group sales of 10 or more can receive discounts. For ticket information, visit here. 

Parking costs $12. 

Showings at 4 and 7 p.m. Arco Arena, 1 Sports Parkway. 916-928-6900

Dec. 16: Aaron Young Performs

Aaron Young will perform at Harlow's. Must be 21 or older.

$10. 9 p.m. 2708 J St. 916-441-4693

Dec. 17: Holiday Handbell Concert

Experience a handbell concert by RiverBells, a community English handbell ensemble comprised of 15 ringers. 

FREE ADMISSION! Donations accepted.

7:30 p.m. Faith United Methodist Church, 3600 J St. 916-452-7637

Dec. 17: Full Blown Stone Performs

Full Blown Stone will perform at Harlow's. Must be 21 or older.

$10. 10 p.m. 2708 J St. 916-441-4693

Dec. 17: The Nibblers Perform

The Nibblers will perform at Marilyn's on K. 

$7. 9 p.m. 908 K St. 916-446-4361

Dec. 18: "Jingle All the Way" Children's Holiday Concert

The Sacramento Master Singers presents their annual family-oriented program designed for children. 

Adult tickets cost $5, children's tickets cost $3. To buy tickets, visit their website.

2-2:45 p.m. St. Francis Catholic Church, 26th and K Streets. 916-788-7464

Dec. 19: Screening of "Santa vs. Satan"

Movies on a Big Screen will hold a screening of "Santa vs. Satan" during their second Crappy Christmas weekend. MOBS will screen the film at The Guild Theater. They are "ashamed (yet strangely giddy) to present the return of this bizarre and relatively unknown movie from 1959, originally filmed and released in Mexico. Included will be the badly and bizarrely dubbed English soundtrack (no subtitles) from its 1960 US release."

$5.50. For tickets, visit here. 

7:30-9:30 p.m. 2828 35th St. 

Dec. 19: Screening of "A Christmas Story"

The Crest Theatre will hold a special one-day screening of the classic film, "A Christmas Story." Catch the film at 1, 3:30 or 7 p.m. 

General admission is $9.50. Seniors, students and matinee price is $6. 1013 K St. 916-442-7378

Dec. 19: A Child's Christmas in Wales

The Camerata California and The Camellia Symphony Orchestra present, "A Child's Christmas in Wales."

Guests ages 18 and younger get in free. Students get in for $10, seniors get in for $20. General admission is $22. 

4 p.m. Westminster Presbyterian Church, 1300 N St. 916-483-1386

SPORTS AND OUTDOORS

Dec. 15: Skate for a Cause: Benefit Skate Night

Proceeds from 6-8 p.m. from the ice rink at St. Rose of Lima Park will benefit Angels for Heart, a Sacramento nonprofit organization dedicated to making sure pediatric heart patients maintain a sense of normalcy as a child. 

$8 admission. $2 for skate rental. 7th and K Streets. 916-442-5563

Dec. 19: Kings vs. Houston Rockets

Root the Kings on against the Houston Rockets Sunday night.

Tickets start at $15. Parking is $10. 

3 p.m. Arco Arena, 1 Sports Parkway. 916-928-6900

FOOD AND DINING

Dec. 16: Ten22's Tasting Thursday

This week, Ten22's Tasting Thursdays will be titled, "The New World of Brews." Make it a Thursday tradition to try a new theme and new drinks with Ten22. 

$10. 5:30-6:30 p.m. 1022 2nd St. 916-441-2211

Dec. 18: Old Sacramento Speakeasy Tour and Pub Crawl

Starting at the River City Saloon, the tour will hit numerous stops in Old Sac that at one point or another had all be speakeasies. But don't be distressed if you miss it this Saturday, it's held the third Saturday of every month. 

$10. Must be 21 or older. Alcoholic beverages are not included in the tour but are available at tour stops. 

6 p.m. River City Saloon, 916 2nd St. 916-442-8575

ALL ELSE

Dec. 18: SantaCon

If you're one of the unfortunate who has never seen a mob of Santa Clauses rush the streets in a blizzard (and possibly drunken stupor) of red with white trim, meander over to the Sacramento County Jail to witness this sight or (and highly encouraged) join in! 

The Sacramento Cacophony Society's website has a few guidelines of what to bring: money for drinks; an unmarked drinking vessel; comfy shoes and warm clothes; gifts for shoppers and the homeless; camera; megaphone; musical instrument (at the point in the list, I imagine this could all fit in one of those handy dandy present sacks Santa has over his shoulder); and your own bail. 

The Santas will gather at the County Jail and start marching at 2:30 p.m. 

Why the jail you ask? Sac Cacophony Society's site states: "We'll start out at the jail to hopefully impress them with our soberness and holiday spirit so that if we end up there later on, they will be nice to us." 

2 p.m. 7th and I Streets

Dec. 18: SantaCon After Party

Need an after party? River City Saloon has got you covered with $5 Rudolph and Red Bulls, and $2 shots of Jack.

8 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. 916 2nd St. 916-443-6852

Dec. 18: Midtown Bazaar 
Join Sacramento Midtownians for the Midtown Bazaar. It's a shopping experience, farmers market, music fest and food fest all in one.
Don't worry if you miss it this week, it's held every Saturday.
FREE ADMISSION! 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. I Street between 16th and 17th Streets. 916-317-6017

Bark the homeless animals sing

Homeless humans aren't the only ones who appreciate an extra leg (or in this case, paw) up during the holiday season. There are several animal organizations that need donations in these cold Sacramento winters.

Happy Tails Pet Sanctuary here in Sacramento is a no-kill, all-volunteer animal rescue organization. They're having a Homeless Animal Food Drive through Dec. 31 and donations are needed! They are asking for: Purina One senior food; Purina cat chow; Purina One Indoor Advantage dry cat food "Hairball and Healthy Weight Formula"; Purina One "Chicken and Rice"; Purina One "Healthy Kitten Formula"; Friskies canned food in pate style; Science Diet Oral Care; Trader Joe's canned cat tuna and milk replacer for kittens (powdered KMR). Gift cards are also needed from Trader Joe's, Petsmart, Walmart, Sam's Club and Costco.
Donations can be dropped off Wednesday through Sunday from 12-6 p.m.at Happy Tails, 6001 Folsom Blvd. Or you can go to Petsmart located at Watt Avenue and Arden Way, Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

The City of Sacramento Animal Services and Sacramento SPCA are holding "1,000 Homes for the Holidays." They hope to find loving, responsible forever homes for 1,000 animals this season and are featuring 50 percent off adoption fees through Dec. 30. Animal Services also has a wish list of items needed for the shelter. The list includes: hot dogs; dog treats; washable toys; puppy formula; four or eight ounce nursing bottles; baby gates; dog and cat food; washable beds; shoe boxes; Rescue Remedy; Feliway Diffuser refills; heating pads; five gallon buckets with lids and cash donations.

Don't forget those people, animals and organizations most in need this season.

Cheer Up, Buttercup! Dec. 6-Dec. 12

Thanksgiving is behind us and the rushed bargain shopping has passed (for now). Take a break this week with some new experiences and fun. Sure there's a lot of seasonal activities, but there's more to give back to yourself before diving into the rest of the holiday season with this week's "Cheer Up, Buttercup!"

FAMILY AND PETS

Dec. 9: Holiday Gift Making for Kids
If your kids (or budget) are at a loss this holiday season, visit the Franklin Library for a workshop on making ordinary paper into beautiful gifts.
This workshop is for children ages 9-12.
FREE ADMISSION!
3:30-4:30 p.m. 10055 Franklin High Rd., Elk Grove. 916-264-2700

Dec. 9-11: Wild Nights and Holiday Lights at the Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary
Celebrate the holidays and support the animals of the Folsom zoo. Thousands of color environmentally-friendly LED lights will twinkle through the night, there will be a beautiful enchanted forest of lit trees, carolers, seasonal food and drink, animal presentations by zoo docents and visits from Santa Claus.
Adult tickets are $5. Children ages 2-12 and seniors get in for $4. Children younger than 2 get in free.
6-9 p.m. 403 Stafford St., Folsom. 916-351-3527

Dec. 11: Holiday Magic at the Sacramento Zoo
Celebrate the holidays with the staff and animals of the zoo. The Zoofari Market will be open early from 9-10 a.m. for zoo member shopping. Members get a 25% discount with their card.
There will also be a food and toy drive. Bring a new, unwrapped toy or non-perishable food item to donate and receive $1 off zoo admission. Toy donations will go to Toys for Tots and food donations will go to the Sacramento Food Bank.
Enjoy the animal enrichment schedule when staff will provide animals with edible holiday treats over the course of the day. Visit their website for the schedule.
Admission ranges from $6.50-$11. 
10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 3930 West Land Park Dr. 916-808-5888

Dec. 11: Christmas Memories at the Governor's Mansion
Experience the holidays the way 13 past governors and their families enjoyed it at the Governor's Mansion. There will be docents in period costume and lavish re-created period decor. Bring the kids to take pictures with Mr. and Mrs. Claus.
Adults get in for $5, children ages 6-17 get in for $3. Children 5 and younger get in free.
1526 H St. 916-323-3047

Dec. 11-12: Reindeer Days at Discovery Museum Science and Space Center
Bring your kids to learn more about the popular animal (of the non-flying variety) during Reindeer Days. There will be a scavenger hunt, and children 12 and younger can make a reindeer craft project to take home.
Members get in free. Adults get in for $6. Seniors and teens (ages 13-17) get in for $5. Children ages 4-12 get in for $4. Children 3 and younger get in for free.
12:30-4 p.m. 3615 Auburn Blvd. 916-808-3942

Dec. 12: A Southwest Christmas Native Designs and Ornaments Workshop
Trailmix.net store is hosting "A Southwest Christmas" where guests may make their own ornaments in a Southwest Indian style. April Farnham will lead the class where visitors can learn about pottery, sculpture, basketry and textiles.
$5.
1-2 p.m. 116B I St. 916-498-9090

MUSIC AND ARTS

Dec. 7: Kate Gaffney Performs
Musician Kate Gaffney will be in Sacramento to perform at Torch Club.
5:30 p.m. 904 15th St. 916-443-2797

Dec. 8: Kim Wilson's Blues All-Stars
Wilson will perform with special opening guest Tess and Hip Trash at Harlow's. 
Must be 21 or older.
$20 for advance tickets, $25 at the door.
Door opens at 7 p.m. The show starts at 8 p.m. 2708 J St. 916-457-7553

Dec. 10: Velvet Underground Tribute Show
Fans of Velvet Underground and Lou Reed can catch the tribute show at Old Ironsides.
$7. Must be 21 or older.
8 p.m. 1901 10th St. 916-443-9751

Dec. 10: Twelve Days of Midtown: Philharmonic Winter Wine and Jazz
Experience the Sacramento Philharmonic during "Winter Wine and Jazz." Enjoy locally produced wine, the philharmonic and a jazz trio at Antiquity Maison Privee.
There is limited seating so advanced reservations are encouraged. Admission includes a complimentary glass of wine and hors d'eovres catered by Jackson Catering.
Advance tickets are $15, $20 at the door. For tickets, visit their website.
6-9 p.m. 2114 P St. 916-732-9045

Dec. 11: Pioneering Collectors: The Crockers and Master Drawings
Enjoy this symposium about the Crocker's early collection of master drawings. It will be led by curator William Breazeale, catalogue co-author Cara Dufour Denison and drawings specialist Christiane Andersson. The panel will discuss discoveries made during recent research as well as Dutch, French, Italian, Flemish and German drawings in the context of American collections.
$30 for members, $40 for nonmembers, and $38 for students and seniors.
10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Crocker Art Museum, 216 O St. 916-808-7000

Dec. 11: The Nutcracker Performance
The Capitol Ballet Company will perform Tchaikovsky's classic holiday piece at Sheldon High School Performing Arts Center.
General admission is $18. Children, seniors, students and military (with I.D.) get in for $12. For tickets, visit their website.
Showings at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. 8333 Kingsbridge Dr. 916-484-1188

Dec. 12: Lara Downes Family Concert, "Neverland to Wonderland"
The performance will feature a multimedia theaterwork created and directed by Mindy Cooper. Pianist Downes has drawn on Peter Pan and Alice in Wonderland to create "a stunning celebration of childhood mystery and enchantment, including music by Leonard Bernstein, Sergei Prokofiev, and David Del Tredici."
Students get in for $15, subscriber add-on price is $26. General admission is $30.  
1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Mondavi Center, Vanderhoef Studio Theatre. One Shields Ave. 866-754-2787

SPORTS AND OUTDOORS

Dec. 8: Kings vs. Washington Wizards
Root the Sacramento Kings on as they play the Washington Wizards.
Tickets start at $15. Parking is $10.
7 p.m. Arco Arena, 1 Sports Parkway. 916-928-6900

Dec. 9: Downtown Ice Rink Theme Night: Ugly Sweaters
Get more use out of your ugly holiday sweaters than just the annual themed party. Keep warm and badly dressed while enjoying the Downtown Ice Rink.
$8 for admission, free skate rental with participation in theme. $2 otherwise. 
4-8 p.m. St. Rose of Lima Park, 7th and K Streets. 916-442-8575

Dec. 11: Kings vs. Miami Heat
Catch the teams compete Saturday night.
Tickets start at $15. Parking is $10.
7 p.m. Arco Arena, 1 Sports Parkway. 916-928-6900

 

FOOD AND DINING

Dec. 6: "Making Guilt-Free Choices at Holiday Parties" Nutrition Class
Visit the Arden Hills Resort Club and Spa for this class that can help keep the scale from tipping. The class will offer common sense tips and tricks to help enjoy the seasonal delicacies while staying away from fattier options.
$20.
Noon. 1220 Arden Hills Lane. 916-482-6111

Dec. 9: Thursday Night Jazz and Wine
Relax with live jazz music and relax even further with wine at the Arden Hills Resort Club and Spa. This week's Thursday Night Jazz and Wine will feature appetizers, the music of the Joey V Band and champagne tastings.
$20.
6-9 p.m. 1220 Arden Hills Lane. 916-482-6111

Dec. 9: "British Invasion" Cheese Tasting
Join C'est Le Cheese for this week's cheese tasting class, "British Invasion." The tasting will focus on the classic cheeses of the British Isles including farmhouse cheddars to traditional blues. Instructor Judy Creighton will lead the class and offer sherry, port and madeira.
$50. To register, visit their website.
6:30-8:30 p.m. L Street Lofts, 1818 L St. 916-761-7674

Dec. 10: Macrobiotics Wellness Class
This class is held monthly at the Arden Hills Resort Club and Spa, and will teach how to create healthy, delicious soups. The class focuses on how diet can "increase longevity and lead to a more healthful life." There is an emphasis on adding whole grains, legumes, seeds, nuts, vegetables and soy products to one's diet.
$20.
11 a.m. 1220 Arden Hills Lane. 916-482-6111

ALL ELSE

Dec. 8: Created in California Shopping Tweetup
An array of vendors will be on hand at Hot Italian, selling their goods and fashion made in California. Enjoy complimentary pizza as you shop and support independent vendors.
The scheduled vendors include Marty May, Van Der Neer, Clozline, Miss Velvet Cream, Morris + Terry, LirpaLife, Lindsay23, Boone Skis, Riley Designs and Amithyst.
Twitterers may find the event under hashtag #createdincalifornia.
FREE ADMISSION!
6-9 p.m. 1627 16th St. 916-444-3000

Dec. 11: Joel McHale Performs
You may remember him from such shows as "The Soup" and "Community." Actor, comedian and television host Joel McHale will perform at the Memorial Auditorium, satirizing pop culture and current events.
Tickets range from $29.50-$59.50.
8-11 p.m. 1515 J St. 916-808-5181

Dec. 11: Midtown Bazaar

Join Sacramento Midtownians for the Midtown Bazaar. It's a shopping experience, farmers market, music fest and food fest all in one. 

Don't worry if you miss it this week, it's held every Saturday.
FREE ADMISSION!

10 a.m. to 3 p.m. I Street between 16th and 17th Streets. 916-317-6017

Dec. 11: Call of Duty Black Ops Tournament
If you want to know how your game stacks up or feel confident enough, visit the Sacramento Public Library Central Branch for this tournament. It is the library's largest tournament thus far and will be a single elimination, 2v2 hardcore team deathmatch. If that makes sense to you, this may be the tournament for you.
The grand prize is a black ops prestige package. Second place gets a $25 Fry's gift certificate.
Must be 17 or older with I.D. Registration is required.
2-5 p.m. 828 I St. 916-264-2700

Dec. 12: SACCON
Head to the Scottish Rite Center for SACCON: Sacramento's comic, toy and anime show. Confirmed special guests include: Sonny Strait; Tone Rodriguez; The Homicide Chicks; Tom Haubrick; Ken Garduno; Little Carbon Robot; Hai-Na Nu Saulque; Ahmad; Mr. Lobo; Matt Maxwell and Mike Gray. Returning favorites include: Daniel Brereton; Tim Vigil; Brandon Bracamonte; Jason Dube; Mike Hampton; Anthony Leano and Paul Allen; ECV Press and Nate Watson.
General admission is $6. Children 6 and younger get in free.
10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 6151 H St.