Books & Authors

Writing the Holidays Dec 15, 2pm. Focused writing exercises and discussion of published examples. Led by Meagan Cass, UIS creative writing professor. $10- $5. Register vachellindsay@gmail. com. Dana-Thomas House, 301 E. Lawrence, 217-782-6776.

Spoken Word

Springfield Poets and Writers Open Mic Dec 18, 6-8pm. Every third Wed. sign up to read some poetry, prose, nonfi ction. Listeners welcome. Food available for purchase. 217-725- 9058. Robbie’s, 4 S. Old State Capitol Plaza, 217-528-1901.

Theater & Comedy

A Very Hoogland Christmas Dec 20, Through Dec 22. 7pm Fri- Sat, 2pm Sun. Old-fashioned Christmas revue featuring talents of local performers. Hoogland Center for the Arts, 420 S. Sixth St, 217-523-2787.

Annie Dec 13, Through Dec 15. 8pm Fri-Sat, 2pm Sun. Dec. 6-8 and 13- 15. Springfi eld Theatre Centre. $15- $18. Hoogland Center for the Arts, 420 S. Sixth St, 217-523-2787.

Comedian Scotty K Dec 14, 15, 7:30 and 9:30. Donnie B’s Comedy Club, 625 E. Saint Joseph Street, 391-JOKE.

The Holly and the Ivy Dec 13, Through Dec 15. 7:30pm Fri-Sat, 1:30pm Sun. Moving, award-winning 1950 British drama centers on recently widowed, aging country vicar who hosts a family Christmas. Hoogland Center for the Arts, 420 S. Sixth St, 217-523-2787.

The Importance of Being Earnest Dec 13-14, 8pm. $12. LLCC James S. Murray Gallery, Upper level, Menard Hall, 217-786-2219.

Uh Oh, Here Comes Christmas Dec 14, Through Dec 15. 7:30pm. Playhouse on the Square, 68 E. Central Park, Jacksonville, 217-491-3977.

Music: General Events

Advent Brown Bag Concert Series Dec 18, Through Dec 18. 12:15pm. Free concerts, $5 lunches available. 217-528-4311. First Presbyterian Church, 321 S. Seventh St., 528- 4311.

Illinois Symphony Chamber Orchestra Dec 13, 6pm and 8pm. Finzi: Romance; Britten: Serenade for Tenor, Horn and Strings with William Burden and Stephen Hanrahan; Elgar: Introduction and Allegro. First Presbyterian Church, 321 S. Seventh St., 528-4311.

Mannheim Steamroller Christmas, by Chip Davis Dec 16, 7:30pm. Beloved Christmas music along with dazzling multimedia effects. Sangamon Auditorium, UIS, 1 University Plaza, 217-206-6160.

Seeking Musicians for UIS Band Dec 16, 4-5:50pm. Monday rehearsals. Open to students, faculty, alumni and community members. 206-7549. University of Illinois at Springfi eld, 217-206-6073.

Seeking Musicians for UIS Chorus Dec 12, 7-9:15pm Tue, 3:30- 5:30pm Thu. Rehearsals open to anyone in community. VPA 33. 206-7549. University of Illinois at Springfi eld, 217-206- 6073.

Springfield Uketopians Dec 14, 1pm. Second Saturday of the month for ukulele players. No experience necessary. 217-788-8084. Cafe Moxo, 411 E. Adams St, 217-788-8084.

Dance

A Country Dance Dec 13, Through Dec 27. 7pm. Wednesdays and Fridays. $5. 217-428-1560. Prairie Land Dance Club, 650 Matilda St, Illiopolis, 217-428-1560.

All About Dance Dec 18, Through Dec 18. 6:30pm. Wednesday nights. Lessons then open dance. $5. 217-836-1438. VFW Post #755, 2211 Old Jacksonville Road, 217-546-9515.

Dance Dec 13, 8-11pm, Fridays. $10. VFW Post 755, 2211 Old Jacksonville Rd.

Solstice: A Concert of Dance Dec 12, Through Dec 14. 7:30pm. Collection of student and faculty choreographed works. Albert Taylor Theatre, Millikin’s Shilling Hall, Decatur, 217-424-6318.

The Nutcracker Dec 14, Through Dec 15. 2pm and 8pm Sat, 2pm Sun. Springfi eld Ballet Company. $28-$18. Sangamon Auditorium, UIS, 1 University Plaza, 217-206-6160.

Art & Architecture

Art Opening Dec 13, 6pm. Artist Dominic Paul Moore. On display through Jan. 4, Saturday afternoons, 1-4 p.m., or as requested by appointment. DEMO Project, 732 N. Fourth St., 217-206- 6506.

Art Reception, Silent Auction Conclusion Dec 12, 11am-6pm Mon-Thu. Bid until closing reception and auction conclusion Dec. 12 from 5:30-7 p.m. UIS Visual Arts Gallery, HSB 201, One University Plaza, 217-206- 6506.

Figuratively Speaking Series Dec 12, 6:30pm. Eleanor Spiess- Ferris (painter) will talk about the symbolism and surrealism in her fi gurative collages and paintings. Exhibition open until 8:15 p.m. 217-782-7440. Illinois State Museum, 502 S. Spring St, 217- 782-7386.

Figurism: Narrative and Fantastic Figurative Art Dec 12, Through Mar 2. 8:30am-5pm. Historical and contemporary body-based art by over fi fty artists from ISM collection. 217-782-7440. Illinois State Museum, 502 S. Spring St, 217-782-7386.

Holiday Art Spree Dec 14, Through Dec 15. 10am- 5pm Sat, 12-4pm Sun. Twelve Illinois artisans demonstrate and sell their work. (Sunday at 2 p.m. new space unveiled featuring George Peter Alexander Healy exhibit.) Free. 217-782-5949. Illinois State Museum, 502 S. Spring St, 217-782-7386.

L. Philip Trutter Commemorative Exhibit Dec 12, 10am-3pm Tue, Wed, Thu. Through July 2015, Trutter’s artwork including one-of-a-kind handmade puzzles, interview excerpts of his thoughts on growing up in Springfi eld, his art and architecture. LLCC Trutter Center, 5250 Shepherd Road, 217-786-2200.

Third Thursday Art Show Dec 19, 6pm-12am. Free, open, all ages art show with local acoustic music and one band at end of night. 217-691-1301. Donnie’s Homespun, 107 West Cook Road, 323-782-9000.

Walking in the Light Reception Dec 12, 12pm. Artifacts and works from several faith traditions on display through Jan. 30. Reception Dec. 12, 12-1 p.m. 217-525-1420 ext.3518. Benedictine University at Springfi eld.

Film & Television

Central Illinois Film Commission Meeting Dec 19, 7pm. Third Thursdays in Highland room. 725-1187. Hilton Springfi eld, 700 E. Adams, 217- 789-1530.

Children’s Corner

Decorate Cookies with Mrs. Claus Dec 23, 6pm. Make a cookie for Santa. For kids ages 4-12. 217- 726-6330. Scheels, 3801 South MacArthur , 217-726-6330.

DSI Santa House Dec 14, Through Dec 21. Dec. 4, 5,11, 18, 5-8 p.m.; Dec. 7, 1-4 p.m.; Dec. 14 and 21, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free photo and candy cane. Old State Capitol Plaza, Between Sixth and Fifth Sts at Adams.

Joy to the World Kiddo Class Dec 12, 10am. Ages 2-5 with grown-up. $40. 217-670- 2391. Urban Sassafras, 200 Broadway, 217-670-2391.

Joy to the World Kiddo Class Dec 14, 9am. Ages 2-5 and grown-up. $40. 217-670- 2391. Urban Sassafras, 200 Broadway, 217-670-2391.

Super Saturdays at the Museum Dec 14, 11am-3pm. The Illinois State Museum invites families to come make winter-themed art. Free, thematic activities recommended for children ages 3-8. 217-782-6044. Illinois State Museum, 502 S. Spring St, 217-782-7386.

Nature

Springfield Christmas Bird Count Dec 22, 1pm. Outside and inside counts. All levels welcome. Holiday refreshments. RSVP jfessett@illinoisaudubon. org. Adams Wildlife Sanctuary, 2315 East Clear Lake Ave, 217- 544-2473.

Environment

Effects of Bird Feeding Activities Dec 19, 7pm. Assistant Professor of Biology at Millikin University, Travis Wilcoxen, will discuss his fi ndings from a twoyear study of the effects of bird feeding activities on health of birds and local bird populations. Free. 217-725-7650. Adams Wildlife Sanctuary, 2315 East Clear Lake Ave, 217-544-2473.

Lectures & Meetings

ABATE Chapter Meeting Dec 19, 7pm. ABATE Lincoln Land Monthly Chapter Meeting. All motorcycle enthusiasts welcome. Third Thursday of every month. 217-836-3336. Northender’s VFW, 2349 Stockyard Rd, 217-523-7523.

Association of Information Technology Professionals Dec 17, 5:30pm. Social meeting. Dinner $27. Reservations, 217-494-7105. 217-971-7005. Brickhouse Grill and Pub, 3136 W. Iles Ave., 217-546-2745.

Heads Up Group Dec 15, 1pm. Support group for those with a head injury. 217-523-2587. Hibachi Grill Supreme Buffet, 2309 S. MacArthur Blvd., 217-698- 6033.

LGBTQ yOUTh Group Dec 13, 6-10pm. Every Friday for LGBTQ youth and allies ages 13-17. Phoenix Center, 109 E. Lawrence Ave, 217-528-5253.

McBrian Lincoln Toastmasters Dec 12, 6pm. Weekly meeting dedicated to helping individuals improve leadership and communication skills. 416- 5127. Our Savior’s Lutheran School, 2645 Old Jacksonville Rd, 217-546-4531.

Sex Addicts Anonymous Dec 12, 7:30pm Mon and 6:30pm Thu. For those seeking freedom from addictive sexual behavior. Meeting info, springfi [email protected]. Confi dentiality assured.

Bulletin Board

Backgammon Club Dec 18, 6pm. Every Wed. with Sangamon Valley Backgammon Association. 622-9447. Capital Teletrack, 1766 Wabash Ave, 217-546-2111.

Citizen Club Policy Breakfast Dec 20, 7:30am. “2013,”Bernie Schoenburg - State Journal- Register. Hoogland Center for the Arts, 420 S. Sixth St, 217-523- 2787.

Instrument Drive Dec 14, 8pm. Illinois Independent Arts Association drive for Washington Middle School during concert. Donnie’s Homespun, 107 West Cook Road, 323-782-9000.

Springfield Chapter DAR Dec 21, 11:30am. Speaker: Lt. Col. (Retired) Craig Rush. About $16.00. Reservations (at least a week before), 217-741-7463. Illini Country Club, 1601 S Illini Rd, 217-546-4614.

Food

Holiday Farmers Market Dec 14, 9am-1pm. Everything you need for your holiday dinner. Artisan’s Building. 528-1563. Illinois State Fairgrounds, 801 Sangamon Ave, 217-782-1698.

History

A Historic Christmas Dec 14, 12pm. Iles House, Lincoln Home, Lindsay House, Edwards Place and Governor’s Mansion. Activities, programs, refreshments. Various locations,

Christmas at the Front Dec 17, 6pm. Living Historians tell story of World War I’s 1914 Christmas truce and Great War. Dr. Chris McDonald, LLCC professor of political science, provides short talk. Holiday carols by Sound Celebration. Free. Illinois State Military Museum, 1301 N. MacArthur Blvd, 761-3910.

Health Connection Support Group Dec 18, 7-8:30pm. Third Wednesday. National Alliance on Mental Illness Support Group for persons who have a mental illness. 891-5570. First Christian Church, 700 S. Sixth St, 217- 528-3407.

DBSA Central Illinois Dec 17, 6:30-8:30pm. Tuesdays. For those affected by mood disorder, friends/family. Fellowship Hall, lower level. 414- 7368. First Christian Church, 700 S. Sixth St, 217-528-3407.

Fitness for You Dec 12, 12:30-1:30pm. Various exercises and fi tness routines for cancer patients. Register by phone. Free on Thursdays. 217-545-0798. Simmons Cancer Institute, 315 W. Carpenter, 217-545-0798.

Free Testings Dec 12, 12-3pm Mon-Fri. Free HIV, hepatitis C, gonorrhea and chlamydia testing. Weekdays or by appointment. Phoenix Center, 109 E. Lawrence Ave, 217-528-5253.

GROW in Illinois Mental Health Dec 12, 6:30pm. 12-step support program for emotional, mental health issues, coping or addictions. Thursdays. 816- 1083. Laurel United Methodist Church, 631 South Grand Ave W, 217-525-1866.

GROW in Illinois Mental Health Dec 18, Through Dec 18. 2:30pm. Wednesdays, 12-step support program for emotional, mental health issues, coping or addictions. 217-816- 1083. Salvation Army Corps Community Center, 530 N. Sixth Street, 525-2196.

NAMI Support Group Dec 18, 7-8:30pm. Third Wed., National Alliance on Mental Illness for family and friends of persons with mental illness. 891-5570. First Christian Church, 700 S. Sixth St, 217- 528-3407.

Pilates Dec 18, 11am-12pm. Free to cancer patients through Side- By-Side Program. Register by phone. Wednesdays. 217- 545-0798. Simmons Cancer Institute, 315 W. Carpenter, 217-545-0798.

Faith & Philosophy

A Soulful Christmas Celebration: Jesus, The Hope of Glory Dec 14, 6pm. Free. Benefi ting the Salvation Army. 217-726- 5988. Fresh Visions Community Church, 2400 North Grand Ave E, 492-1007.

Blue Christmas Service Dec 20, 6pm. For those who are experiencing grief during the holiday season. 217-585-9550. Abraham Lincoln Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 745 Woodside Rd, 217-585-9550.

Candlelight Service Dec 24, 7pm. First Congregational Church, 2100 Bates Ave, (217) 546-7170.

Christmas Eve: Candles, Carols and Choir Dec 24, 7pm. Poetry, readings, holiday songs and the ritual lighting of candles. 217-585-9550. Abraham Lincoln Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 745 Woodside Rd, 217-585-9550.

Holiday Youth Pageant Dec 15, 10:30am. Free. 217-585-9550. Abraham Lincoln Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 745 Woodside Rd, 217-585-9550.

Newtown Anniversary Candelight Vigil Dec 14, 5pm. Join OFA in remembrance while supporting ending gun violence. Free. 310-902-7398. Old State Capitol Plaza, Between Sixth and Fifth Sts at Adams.

Sunday Public Praise & Worship Dec 15, 9:30am-12:30pm. 217-364-5273. Body of Christ Church, 213 N. Main, Buffalo.

White Gifts Service Dec 15, 10am. New toys, canned food, nonperishable food, winter clothing wrapped in white tissue paper for charity. Special program by kids about season. First Congregational Church, 2100 Bates Ave, (217) 546-7170.

Winter’s Bouquet of Holidays and Holy Days Dec 22, 10:30am. Lesser known celebrations. 217- 585-9550. Abraham Lincoln Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 745 Woodside Rd, 217-585-9550.

Sports & Fitness

Skate with Santa Dec 21, Through Dec 22. 11:30am-1:30pm Sat, 2-4pm Sun. Santa visits (12-1 p.m. on Sat.) and (2:30-3:30 p.m. on Sunday) during public skate times. Nelson Center Ice Arena, Lincoln Park, 1601 N. Fifth St, 217-525-2589.

Santa-Themed 5K Dec 14, 9am. $35. sangamonceo.com/santa5k. Illinois State Fairgrounds, 801 Sangamon Ave, 217-782-1698.

Ultimate Springfield - Ultimate Frisbee Dec 12, 5-8pm Thursdays. Every Thursday, new players always welcome — no experience required. 618-719-1221. Jefferson Park, 300 S. Oxford. (Also, Dec 15, 1:30-4pm.)