Christmas Carol, holiday shows, Maiden tribute: 5 weekend picks

Lots of festive things to do and see this weekend. The Worcester Guardian highlights events you may want to consider attending over the weekend

Here are five picks of things to do in Worcester this weekend:

  1. Candlelight tours at Salisbury Mansion: Take in the holiday magic at Salisbury Mansion during “Home for the Holidays” candlelight tours on Friday, Dec. 20, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Worcester artist Chris McGovern and guest curator Christopher Sawyer have transformed the historic home with breathtaking holiday trees and festive decor. Hosted by the Worcester Historical Museum, this enchanting event is a perfect way to celebrate the season.
  2. Sun & Steel rocks Ralph’s Diner, Maiden-style: Celebrate the power of metal on Friday, Dec. 20, at Ralph’s Diner with Sun & Steel, an Iron Maiden tribute band, joined by openers Archdruid. Starting at 8 p.m., experience 90 minutes of Iron Maiden’s greatest hits, epic anthems, and deep cuts.
  3. Cara Brindisi concert: a Winter solstice celebration: Among our local stars is Brindisi, who earned notoriety on “The Voice” and has long been a “must see” artist around here. She’s back for this third annual concert, called “Words of Winter,” at Mechanics Hall on Friday, Dec. 20. Join Brindisi and special guests for an evening of light and warmth on the longest night of the year. There may be a few tickets left. Nab them.
  4. Sounds of the Season: Worcester Youth Orchestras holiday concert: Celebrate the holidays with the Worcester Youth Orchestras’ most popular concert of the year, Saturday, Dec. 21, at 4 p.m. This annual sell-out features performances by the WY Symphony Orchestra, Philharmonic, Wind Ensemble, Jazz Band, Worcester Children’s Chorus, and the Nashoba Valley Chorale, all accompanied by the magnificent Hook Organ. Special guest Senator Michael Moore conducts the WY Symphony in a festive rendition of “Sleigh Ride.” Enjoy pre-concert tunes from the WY Jazz Combo and carols by the WY Wind Ensemble during intermission. Cash bar available for floor and balcony guests.
  5. Holiday Magic with A Christmas Carol: Experience the timeless holiday classic “A Christmas Carol” at The Hanover Theatre, with shows running through Dec. 22. Adapted by Troy Siebels, the production features the Mighty Wurlitzer Organ, dazzling costumes, spine-tingling special effects, and a tale of transformation as Ebenezer Scrooge is visited by the Spirits of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come. Arrive early for a pre-show concert by organist Sean Redrow on the largest theater pipe organ in New England. Tickets range from $39 to $69, depending on seat location. Don’t miss this magical holiday tradition.

For more events, visit the Discover Central Massachusetts events calendar.

Have an event, news tip, information, joke, favorite recipe or anything else you’d like to tell us about? You should. Contact carsenault@theworcesterguardian.org

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