Saturday, January 7th Events

Winter Trails Day

Time: 1:00 PM-4:00 PM
Place: Northfield Mountain Recreation and Environmental Center, Northfield, MA (about 20 miles from Keene)
Price: Free

Ages: 8 and older

Winter Trails Day offers older children and adults new to snow sports the chance to try snowshoeing and cross country skiing for free, and to discover the great fitness and social benefits with these easy-to-learn winter sports. Winter Trails Day involves almost 100 resorts and Nordic Centers nationwide, and gets 11,000 kids and adults on the snow each year. At Northfield Mountain free clinics for first time skiers begin at 1:00, 2:00, 3:00 p.m. and last for 45 minutes. Twenty minute long snowshoe clinics are offered at 1:30, 2:30 & 3:30 p.m. for those who have never tried the sport. Clinic participants must arrive 30 minutes in advance of their scheduled start time to sign in and pickup their equipment.

Pre-registration is required 1-800-859-2960.

Circus Arts Sample Class

Time: 2:00 PM-4:00 PM (see details below)
Place: New England Center of Circus Arts, Brattleboro, VT (about 19 miles from Keene)
Price: Free
Ages: 1.5+

If you have ever been curious about what happens at the circus school, come try out a Sample Class and find out! Swing on a trapeze, juggle a little, balance on a low wire, climb an aerial fabric, roll on a german wheel, or if you just want to watch and ask questions our experienced staff will be on hand to help. No pre-registration is required, but all children under the age of 18 must either have a parent present to sign a waiver, or download one from our web site and bring it with you already signed.

2-3 pm: Kids 1.5 yrs-7 yrs
(parents are welcome to join kids) obstacle course with walking pipe, and more, plus trapeze, fabric

3-4 pm: Kids 8+ and Adults
german wheel, walking pipe, trapeze, fabric

Snow Shoe Hike

Time: 10:00 AM-11:30 AM
Place: Stonewall Farm, Keene, NH
Price: Free
Ages: All

Ready for some exercise after the holidays? This family program explores the farm on snowshoes. Bring your own shoes, or use ours. Instruction included. 

Gallery Walk at the Historical Society

Time: 10:00 AM
Place: Historical Society of Cheshire County, Keene, NH
Price: Free
Ages: All

Gallery Walk of HSCC's winter feature exhibit on Speed, Safety and Comfort: A History of the Railroad in Cheshire County, 1844-1984 begins at 10:00 a.m. in HSCC's Exhibit Hall. For further information, please contact HSCC by email or at 352-1895.

Willard Pond Sanctuary

Time: 9:00 AM-12:30 PM
Place: Gregg Lake, Antrim, NH (about 26 miles from Keene)
Price: Free
Ages: Older crowd

This special tour will feature some of NH Audubon's newest protected parcels in Antrim. We will traverse 2-3 miles of mainly level terrain along an access road for part of the hike, and if conditions cooperate, we may hike to the most remote part of shoreline on Willard Pond. Led by Phil Brown and Francie Von Mertens. Bring a snack, warm beverage, snowshoes, and be prepared for the conditions. RSVP to Phil at pbrown@nhaudubon.org. Co-sponsored by NH Audubon. **In addition, we will keep our eyes open for any Bald Eagles, as NH Audubon volunteers will be monitoring them this day!

Much Ado About Anything
 
Time: 7:00 PM
Place: New England Youth Theater, Brattleboro, VT (about 18 miles from Keene)
Price: $5-$10 donation
Ages: All

An “unrehearsed” version of one of the Bard’s greatest comedies – 7PM on January 7th, 2pm on January 8th.

New England Youth Theatre’s Alumni Association pays homage to its parent organization and explores EXTREME theatrical ground with Much Ado About Nothing. This perennial favorite follows two love stories – that of fiery Beatrice and Benedick, and the mis-judged Hero and gullible Claudio.

A much adored Shakespearean comedy, this production of Much Ado will be set in a High School during Homecoming Weekend! Get ready for some high-stakes, hormone-packed drama and some hilarious, hall-monitoring disciplinarians! The victorious football team returns to their school to celebrate, but who will expose the backstabbing brother from the losing team who spreads damaging rumors?

In an attempt to authentically emulate the Elizabethan-era process of theatrical production, NEYT’s alumni will be performing the show with no more than 24 hours’ worth of rehearsal.

In Shakespeare’s day, rigorous performance schedules and reliance on sunlight allowed for precious little rehearsal time: actors would perform one show per day, six days a week. Like the Lord Chamberlain’s Men before them, the young actors from throughout NEYT’s history will find themselves thrust headfirst into the world of Shakespeare’s rich wordplay, imagery, and wit. Watch out – as they stay on their toes, you will surely stay on the edge of your seat! NEYT 2004 alumna Kara Manson directs.

All proceeds will be donated to NEYT’s “Angels in the Wings” scholarship fund. Tickets will be sold only at the door, and will be by donation – suggested donation is $5-$10 to help support NEYT’s current students.

What's special about today?

Millard Fillmore's birthday, 1800
First train station opened
First US presidential election

Friday, January 6th Events

Movie at the Library

Time: 3:00 PM-5:00 PM
Place: Keene Public Library
Price: Free
Ages:  The movie is PG

Who Framed Roger Rabbit 

Come learn about different styles of film! In this animation classic, the hapless Roger Rabbit is framed for the murder of Marvin Acme, who was photographed 'playing patticake' with Roger's wife Jessica.

Rated: PG

Contra Dance at the Library

Time: 6:30 PM-8:30 PM
Place: Keene Public Library, Herberton Hall
Price: Free
Ages: All

The Three Kings Family Dance. Mary DesRosiers is the caller at this special Twelfth Night Family Dance.

First Friday at Mariposa Museum

Time: 5:00-6:00 PM Kids craft/6:00-7:00 PM Reception
Place: Mariposa Museum, Peterborough, NH (about 19 miles from Keene)
Price: Free
Ages: All

The Mariposa Museum rings in the new year of First Fridays with a heartwarming presentation Bach with Verse Afghanistan Project with Richard Dobbs Hartshorne. His program at the Mariposa on First Friday will include his marvelous music and video of his recent trip to Afghanistan. Dobb has studied at Oberlin Conservatory, at the University of Aarhus in Demark with and at The Julliard School. He played the bass for several different orchestras and was a member of the Apple Hill Center for Chamber Players for 30 years. His premier recording of J.S. Bach's Six Solo Cello Suites was released in 1997. Dobb's performance is the final program in Mariposa's exhibition Along the Silk Road. 

There will be a reception from 6-7pm celebrating the close of the exhibition. From 5-6pm will be the KidCraft Winter Craft. All events for First Friday are free and open to the public. Mariposa is wheelchair accessible.

Snowshoeing in the Moonlight 

Time: 6:30 PM-9:00 PM
Place: Northfield Mountain Recreation and Environmental Center, 99 Millers Falls Rd., Northfield, MA (about 20 miles from Keene)
Price: $5 per person/$17 with snowshoe rentals
Ages: 12 and older

Anyone set a fitness goal while making resolutions? Snowshoeing is fabulous exercise and exploring the winter night in the company of others is so intriguing that it makes meeting exercise goals fun! Participants will explore how to best navigate at night, share inspiring quotes from literary lovers of the moon and stars, and take a short “solo” walk by moonlight. A warm cup of cocoa and snacks will be the perfect ending to this two-mile hike. No previous snowshoeing experience is necessary for this adventure by the light of the moon. Wear wind pants or gaiters if you have them, dress in warm layers that can be shed as we get moving, and bring a water bottle to take on the trail. 

Pre-registration required 1-800-859-2960.

Open Stage

Time: 7:30 PM-10:00 PM
Place: Universalist Unitarian Church, Peterborough, NH (about 19 miles from Keene)
Price: Free
Ages: All

Parish Hall Open Stage Date: Each First Friday of the month 7:30PM - 10:00PM (We are a part of Peterborough's monthly First Friday Celebration).
Sign Up Times: Performers show up between 6:30PM-7:30PM and sign-up at entrance for a performance slot, or email and sign-up by contacting jackkidmusic@gmail.com
Parish Hall Open Mic begins at 7:30 with a main feature artist performing at 8:30 PM
Stage Description: A listening room with sound system provided, grand piano available All acoustic music styles & spoken word welcome.

Cafe Night

Time: 6:00 PM-9:00 PM
Place: United Church of Christ, 23 Central Square, Keene, NH
Price: Free
Ages: All

Come share your talent! Are you in a band? An aspiring actor/actress? Want to be a magician? Do you sing or dance? Open microphone for all, but must be appropriate for all ages. No cost to enter or participate.  Open to all. Refreshments will be available to purchase.

Crafty Critters of the Coral Reef

Time: 7:00 PM-10:00 PM
Place: McAullife-Shepard Discovery Center, Concord, NH (about 51 miles from Keene)
Price: Get free tickets at the Keene Public Library
Ages: All

After the premiere showing of Kalouka’hina: The Enchanted Reef, hear from Perrin Chick, Education Director of the Seacoast Science Center in Rye, as he compares our local waters and critters to those found “down under”!

Learn about Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, the animals that live there, and how coral reefs are formed. Get out of the cold and enjoy this tropical family friendly program, which includes a take-home craft!

The Discovery Center observatory will be open from 7-10 p.m. Following the program will be a free Skywatch outside with the New Hampshire Astronomical Society including personal telescope advice and assistance. Telescope viewing begins at 7 p.m.

Art Film

Time: 8:30 PM
Place: Brattleboro Museum and Art Center, Brattleboro, VT (about 19 miles from Keene)
Price: $5
Ages: Older crowd

Jules Olitski: Modern Master

In this 22-minute film, a great American abstract painter discusses his artistic process and philosophy, while critics and peers — Frank Stella, Anthony Caro, Karen Wilkin, among others — provide insight and observations about his work and his place in the art world. Charismatic, humorous, and insightful, Jules Olitski is the centerpiece of a film that demystifies his remarkably expansive and at times challenging body of work. Rarely seen footage of the artist at work in his studio complemented by talks and interviews with the artist convey a clear portrait of a man driven to make art.

Film co-producer Lauren Poster and directors Andy Reichsman and Kate Purdie will be on hand for a discussion following the screening.

Kalispell and Adelyn Rose Performance

Time: 8:00 PM-10:00 PM
Place: Starving Artist, Keene, NH
Price: Contact for pricing
Ages: Older crowd

Kalispell and Adelyn Rose will preform at the Starving Artist. See more information HERE.
thestarvingartist@mindspring.com

What's special about today?

Apple tree day
Loretta Young birthday, 1913

Thursday, January 5th Events

Tools of the Astronomer

Time: 2:15 PM-4:15 PM
Place: McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center, Concord, NH (about 50 miles from Keene)
Price: $15 per student
Ages: All

Homeschool Program. 
Discover the instruments used by scientists to gaze into the depths of space. Level 1 will study what makes up the components of the telescope including different types of lenses and mirrors used in telescopes. Level 2 will delve deeper into the world of optics by building a telescope similar to one Galileo used and see planetarium show The Amazing Telescope. Level 3 will discover how scientists gather information from stars by using spectroscopes and studying the spectrum of various elements, and watch The Amazing Telescope.

What's special about today?

National bird day
George Washington Carver recognition day
Construction of the Golden Gate Bridge began
National whipped cream day

Wednesday, January 4th Events

An Evening with Ken Burns

Time: 7:00 PM-9:00 PM
Place: Brooks Memorial Library, Brattleboro, VT (about 19 miles from Keene)
Price: Free
Ages: Older crowd

Acclaimed documentary filmmaker Ken Burns discusses past, present, and future projects in a continuing effort to better understand who we are as Americans by examining our collective past. Location: Latchis Theater. Sponsor: Dakin & Benelli, P.C.

The lecture is a First Wednesday program sponsored by the Vermont Humanities Council.

What's special about today?

First road sign
National spaghetti day
Sir Isaac Newton's birthday, 1643
Louis Braille's birthday, 1809

Tuesday, January 3rd Events

What's special about today?

Drinking straw day

Alaska admission day, 1959

Construction of the Brooklyn bridge began, 1870

Aretha Franklin became the first woman to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, 1987

J.R.R. Tolkien's birthday, 1892

Monday, January 2nd Events

What's special about today?

The first spacecraft to fly by the Moon and also to orbit the Sun, Mechta (Luna 1) was launched by the USSR, 1959

Isaac Asimov birthday, 1920

Sunday, January 1st Events

Kirtan

Time: 7:00 PM-8:30 PM
Place: Mindfull Books and Ephemera, Main St., Jaffrey, NH (about 17 miles from Keene)
Price: Free
Ages: All

First Sundays, 7-8:30 p.m. Call and response participatory music experience using ancient Sanskrit mantras that originated in India. All are welcome.

A New Year's Wassail

Time: 3:00 PM-4:00 PM
Place: First Church in Jaffrey, 14 Laban Ainsworth Way, Jaffrey, NH (about 17 miles from Keene)
Price: $10
Ages: All

Songs, stories, and dances led by Gene Faxon, Eve Kodiak, and Andrea Larson to celebrate the winter season.

Celtic Evensong

Time: 5:30 PM
Place: First Antrim Presbyterian Church, 73 Main St., Antrim, NH (about 26 miles from Keene)
Price: Free
Ages: All

First Sundays, 5:30 p.m., through June. Non-denominational, candlelit, quiet and meditative hour, with live Celtic music and reflective songs, chant, readings and prayer.

First Day Hike at Monadnock State Park 

Time: 10:00 AM
Place: Monadnock State Park, Jaffrey, NH (about 17 miles from Keene)
Price: Free
Ages: All

New Hampshire Division of Parks and Recreation will sponsor free, guided hikes in Monadnock State Park on New Year’s Day as part of America's State Parks First Day Hikes initiative in all 50 states. First Day Hikes offer a great way to get outside, exercise, enjoy nature and welcome the New Year with friends and family.

Park staff and volunteers from the Society for the Protection of NH Forests will lead the hikes, which average 1 to 2 miles in length, not more than 2 hours in duration and easy to moderate in difficulty.  Registration for the event will take place in the Hikers Cabin beginning at 10:00am. Day use fee will be waived for all visitors to the park on January 1st, 2012. Complimentary healthy hot drinks and snacks will be offered at the retail store and NH State Park patches and pins will be given to the first 50 people to register.

Eastern Mountain Sports will bring snowshoes and cross country skis for demonstration and for participants to use if it snows and will be free of charge (limited quantity).  They may bring other winter related products for demonstration.

For preregistration and further information contact Diane Holmes at 603-271-3556 or 603-229-7154 or diane.holmes@dred.state.nh.us.

What's special about today?

Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, 1863
Paul Revere's birthday, 1735
Betsy Ross's birthday, 1752

Ongoing January Events

Youth Archery Class

Every Tuesday at 6:00 -7:00 PM

KPRD and the North Branch Bowmen club offer youth Archery classes at the Rec Center, on Tuesdays January 3, 2012 through March, for children in the 5th grade or older. Classes will run from 6 to 7 PM. Register through December 18th at the Rec Center. Cost for the series of lessons is $20. Sign up early, as the numbers are limited for safety reasons and time constraints.

Homeschool PE

Every Wednesday at 10:00-11:00 AM

This program is free (with membership) at the YMCA designed for home school youth. Activities include basketball, soccer, fitness, rock climbing, floor hockey, kickball, wallyball, and more! A great chance to interact with other youth, encourage team work and build self esteem.

Storytime at the Library

Every Saturday at 10:00 AM-10:30 AM

Keene Public Library. This drop-in storytime takes place each Saturday that the library is open. The storytime will include stories, songs, finger plays, and sometimes simple crafts. The storytime is appropriate for children of all ages and their parents or caregivers. 

Open Games at the Library 

Every Thursday at 3:00 PM-6:30 PM

Keene Public Library. It is all gaming!  And, gaming of any kind; whether it is board games, card games, video games, big games, role-playing games, or any other kind of game you can imagine, we'll play it.  Each week, we'll provide a different variety of games for you to play; we welcome you to bring in your own games to share with the group.  Throughout the series, we will have a number of gaming tournaments, so keep your eyes peeled and your ears open, because you might be our next grand champion gamer!

Writers' Workshop

Every Thursday 7:00-9:00 PM

Keene Public Library. Aspiring authors are invited to join this writers' group led by local author Jack Coey.  Join other writers to share ideas, critiques and writing resources. Each week participants will share partial manuscripts with other members of the group so they may take them home for a week and at the next session have a 'feedback' session.

The workshops are for motivated teen and adult writers of writers of realistic fiction and all experience levels. Jack is the author of Lights from Monadnock and Two Legged Foxes both of which deal with the Dean Murders.

Poetry Out Loud
Every Saturday 3:00-4:30 PM

Keene Public Library.  Students interested in participating in the Keene Public Library's Poetry Out Loud competition are required to attend these poetry workshops.

Workshops will explore how to choose and memorize a poem. Practice contests and writing exercises will also be included.

Poetry Out Loud is a program for high school aged students that encourages teens to learn about great poetry through memorization and recitation.The date of the library's competition will be Sunday, February 12 at 2 p.m.

Saturday, December 31st Events

Happy New Year Celebration

Time: 7:00 PM
Place: Grafton Ponds, 783 Townshend Rd., Grafton, VT (about 30 miles from Keene)
Price: $10
Ages: 14 and up

Happy New Year Celebration. Snowshoe with a naturalist: Owl Prowl with a bonfire and s’mores. 7 pm. Contact: Bill Salmon — 802-843-2400

Family New Years Eve Celebration

Time: 10:00 AM-3:00 PM
Place: Children's Museum of NH, 6 Washington St., Dover, NH (about 90 miles from Keene)
Price: $9 for adults and children
Ages: All

Ring in the new year a little early with your family. This festive event includes three special “countdowns to midnight” at 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 2 p.m. At each countdown, a glittering ball drops 30 feet from the ceiling as everyone counts down the last 10 seconds of the year. Noisemakers and confetti create an atmosphere like Times Square, and ginger ale is served to all for the first toast of the New Year. Visitors are also invited to make their own sparkly party hats and write their wishes for the new year on mini flying blimps that are launched at each countdown. Admission: $9 for adults and children, $8 for seniors age 65-plus, and free for children younger than 1. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

New Years Eve Potluck Dinner and Dance

Time: 7:00 PM
Place: Nelson Town Hall, Nelson, NH (about 11 miles from Keene)
Price: Free
Ages: All

It’s the annual New Years Eve potluck and dance at the Nelson Town Hall, taking place on Saturday, December 31st. We’ll begin with a dinner potluck at 7 PM, and then continue with contra dancing until it’s time for fireworks at the pond.

First Night Monadnock

Time: 5:00 PM-12:15 AM
Place: Monadnock Bible Conference Center, 257 Dublin Rd., Jaffrey, NH (about 17 miles from Keene)
Price: $10
Ages: Ages 10 and up

Face painting, mask making, puppet shows, children’s concert; teen coffee house for local worship teams & soloists; tubing hill, ice skating, Laser tag, indoor swimming pool; Christian comedian Justin Fennell; fireworks at midnight by Atlas. Tickets available at Jaffrey Chamber of Commerce, Rousseau's Music, Daffodils Flowers and Gifts in Jaffrey; Peterbough Chamber of Commerce. 

Hi-Fidelity Sound System Live New Years Eve

Time: 8:00 PM
Place: Crotched Mountain Ski, Bennington, NH (about 26 miles from Keene)
Price: Free
Ages: Older crowd

Hi-Fidelity SoundSystem will be performing a mix of Reggae/Dub/Funk & Soul to bring in the New Year!! Led by the former Roots of Creation rhythm section, Hi-Fidelity features Boston vocalist Jahriffe McKenzie on Vocals & The All Good Feel Good Horns. 

What's special about today?

New Years Eve
Marie Curie Awarded the Nobel Prize
John Denver's birthday, 1943 
Thomas Edison gave the first public demonstration of an electric incandescent lamp, 1879

Friday, December 30th Events

Vacation Week Movie

Time: 1:00 PM
Place: Frost Free Library, Marlborough, NH (a few miles from Keene)
Price: Free
Ages: All

Dolphin Tale.

Watch this new-to-DVD movie on the big screen. Hot, fresh popcorn served.

What's special about today?

Sun Yat-sen was elected the first president of the Republic of China, 1911

Thursday, December 29th Events

Hansel and Gretel Play

Time: 1:00 PM-3:00 PM
Place: Peterborough Players, Peterborough, NH (about 19 miles from Keene)
Price: $12.50 tickets
Ages: All

The Peterborough Players will broadcast a holiday encore of The Met: Live in HD’s production of Hansel and Gretel. This fairy tale opera, by nineteenth-century composer Engelbert Humperdinck, is based on the Grimm brothers’ fairy tale. Suitable for children and grownups alike. All tickets: $12.50

What's special about today?

Mary Tyler Moore's birthday, 1936
Andrew Johnson's birthday, 1808
The last major battle of the Indian Wars, at Wounded Knee Creek, took place with hundreds of Indian men, women, and children massacred, 1890

Wednesday, December 28th Events

Movie at the Library

Time: 7:00 PM-9:00 PM
Place: Keene Public Library
Price: Free
Ages: All

Mr. Poppers Penguins.

The life of a businessman begins to change after he inherits six penguins, and as he transforms his apartment into a winter wonderland, his professional side starts to unravel.

Jim Carrey

Twentienth Century Fox, 2011

94 minutes

Rated PG for mild rude humor and some language

Family Snowshoe Walk

Time: 1:00 PM
Place: Grafton Ponds, 783 Townshend Rd., Grafton, VT (about 30 miles from Keene)
Price: $10
Ages: All

Enjoy our beautiful 10km of snowshoe trails with your family on our snowshoe walk. Contact: Bill Salmon — 802-843-2400.

New Voices

Time: 12:00 PM 
Place: Grafton Ponds, 783 Townshend Rd., Grafton, VT (about 30 miles from Keene)Price: Free
Ages: All

"New Voices” presented by Misty Valley Bookstore. Authors share their poems with everyone in the cozy lodge at Grafton Ponds in front of the crackling fireplace. Contact: Bill Salmon — 802 - 843- 2400

Polar Express Movie

Time: 1:00 PM
Place: Ingalls Memorial Library, Rindge, NH (about 20 miles from Keene)
Price: Free
Ages: All

The Polar Express.

Wednesday, Dec. 28, 1 p.m. Movie based on the book by Chris Van Allsburg.

What's special about today?

Woodrow Wilson's birthday. 1856
Elizabeth Jordan Carr, the first American test-tube baby, was born in Norfolk, VA, 1981

Tuesday, December 27th Events

What's special about today?

Make cut out snowflakes day

Louis Pasteur's birthday, 1822

Monday, December 26th Events

What's special about today?

Boxing day

Kwanzaa begins

National candy cane day

Free Class at Marlboro College

I'm passing on a great opportunity I heard about:

To all home schoolers working at a high school junior or senior equivalent level: want to explore topics like astronomy, ceramics or ancient Greek in a college setting? You are eligible for one free high school course at Marlboro College (near Brattleboro in Southeastern VT-about 29 miles from Keene)!

Please visit the website for application details and suggested courses:
www.marlboro.edu/freeclass
The online registration form and a copy of your high school transcript are due by January 10, 2012.

If you have questions, contact Ariel Brooks (abrooks@marlboro.edu, 802-451-7118).

Reminder

Hi everyone,

This is a reminder that new events are added to existing blog posts every day, so check back often to find the new events that are added. You can easily navigate to days quickly with the links on the right sidebar.  I recommend coming on daily to check for that day and the next day. It's also fun to see 'what's so special about today' section for each day. It can start a great conversation, and be an educational idea for what you might study that day.

Thank you for visiting my site. I hope it is helpful to you! 

Have a happy holidays!

Sunday, December 25th Events

Christmas Day Dinner

Time: 2:00 PM
Place: First Congregational Church, Walpole, NH (about 17 miles from Keene)
Price: Free
Ages: All

There will be a free Christmas day dinner at 2:00 of ham, turkey, potatoes, veggies, and all the fixings at the First Congregational Church, on the common, in Walpole, NH. This dinner is for anyone (single, couple, family) that maybe not have a place to go or may be alone on Christmas day. Come join the celebration as one big family with many goodies added on. RSVP is necessary as there will only be 100 meals served. Please call Maureen at 603-357-2202 for reservations.

Christmas Night Dance

Time: 8:00 PM
Place: Nelson Town Hall, Nelson, NH (about 11 miles from Keene)
Price: Free
Ages: All

It’s the 11th annual Christmas Night dance at the Nelson Town Hall. Amy Cann and Bob McQuillen will provide tunes with the normal Nelson variety of callers. Festivities begin at 8:00 pm. There will be a dessert potluck afterwards so bring treats. Admission is free — the Monadnock Folklore Society sponsors this dance as a gift to the community.

What's special about today?

Christmas day
Sir Isaac Newton's Birthday, 1642

Clara Barton's birthday, 1821

Saturday, December 24th Events

Christmas Eve Candlelight Service

Time: 7:00 PM
Place: Unitarian Universalist Church, Keene, NH
Price: Free
Ages: All

Join us for a traditional UU service of music, carols, readings, stories, and candles
celebrating the season – preceded by Wassail refreshments in the Parish Hall.

What's special about today?

Christmas Eve

National eggnog day

"Silent Night" was composed by Franz Joseph Gruber, 1818

Ava Gardner's birthday, 1922

Friday, December 23rd Events

What's special about today?

Pfeffernusse Day
The poem "A Visit from St. Nicholas" ("'Twas the night before Christmas"), written by either Clement C. Moore or Maj. Henry Livingston, Jr., was published in the Troy Sentinel of New York, 1823
Federal Reserve System Established

Thursday, December 22nd Events

Dinner with Santa

Time: 5:00 PM-6:30 PM
Place: The Community Kitchen, Keene, NH
Price: Free
Ages: All

Come have dinner with Santa!

Solstice Headlamp Hike

Time: 6:00 PM-9:00 PM
Place: Ski trails at Northfield (call for directions and to register)
Price: Free
Ages: 12 and older

A holiday celebration for hike lovers, this romp will be on the carriage width ski trails at Northfield. Our headlamps will light the way on this longest night of the year as we share solstice facts and quotes from literary lovers of the night. A visit to a mid- mountain campfire and shared cider and snacks will sweeten this night as we turn toward the sun.
Register by calling 800-859-2960 

What's special about today?

Thermometer invented
Lady Bird Johnson's birthday, 1912

Wednesday, December 21st Events

Holiday Film at the Library

Time: 7:00 PM-9:00 PM

Place: Keene Public Library
Price: Free
Ages: All

The Nutcracker.
The first feature film to showcase the world’s most beloved ballet, this holiday favorite combines the classic beauty of the New York City Ballet stage production with the sparkling talent of Macaulay Culkin.
 

Darci Kistler, Damiam Woetzel, Kyra Nichols,

Bart Robinson Cook, Macaulay Culkin, Jessica Lynn Cohen

Warner Bros.; Directed by Emile Ardolino

Rated G; 93 minutes; 1993

A Christmas Carol At The Library

Time: 6:30 PM
Place: Fitzwilliam Town Library, Fitzwilliam, NH (about 13 miles from Keene)
Price: Contact for more info
Ages: Third grade to adult

In the style of Charles Dickens with Odds Bokin
Contact (603)938-5120 or rivertree@mcttelecom.com

A Child's Christmas and Caroling

Time: 6:30 PM-8:30 PM
Place: Mariposa Museum, Peterborough, NH (about 19 miles from Keene)
Price: Adults $7/Child $3
Ages: All

Wednesday, Dec 21st, 6:30pm; A Child's Christmas and Caroling; Storyteller Sebastian Lockwood and Caroling with Nanette Perrotte.

Contact: admin@mariposamuseum.org

Candlelight Vigil

Time: 5:30 PM
Place: Starts at Keene Central Square
Price: Free
Ages: All

On the first day of winter and the longest night of the year, Tuesday, December 21st, Monadnock region residents are invited to join a candlelight vigil to remember those in NH who are homeless and those who have passed due to homelessness and hardship in our communities.... The event will provide participants the opportunity to remember loved ones and share stories. After the memorial service will be a time to reflect on the root causes of homelessness and ways we can work to end homelessness. The Keene Vigil will be held in conjunction with similar gatherings across NH and the country.

Donations for local service organizations will be collected at the vigil. Please consider donating: Non-perishable food items, twin-sized bedding, personal care items, men’s and women’s deodorants, laundry detergent, paper towels and toilet paper, cleaning supplies, winter clothing – coats, boots, hats and gloves. 

The Candlelight Vigil will be held at Keene Central Square, at 5:30 PM followed with a procession to Hundred Nights at 6:15. At 6:45 all will be invited to share with a time of reflection, open discussion and a short video at St. James Episcopal Church.

Contact Deb Chambers at 603-313-5807 or hundrednightsshelter@gmail.com for more information or to make a donation.

What's special about today?

Winter solstice 
National flashlight day
The Pilgrims landed at Plymouth, Massachusetts, 1620

Tuesday, December 20th Events

Holiday Jazz Concert with Too Human

Time: 2:00 PM-3:00 PM
Place: Keene Public Library
Price: Free

Ages: All

Need something a little different and fun for the holidays? Too Human, an entertaining and dynamic duo performing on guitar, percussion and vocals, presents a fun concert with great heart. This afternoon performances includes bluesy, jazzy originals and jazz standards from the Great American Songbook. The songs and arrangements are fresh and touch the spirit of audiences, whatever their age. This concert is free and open to all.

Geneology

Time: 6:30 PM-7:30 PM
Place: Northfield Public Library, Northfield, MA
Price: Free
Ages: All

Interested in researching your family history? Here is the place to learn and share tips with others. Everyone welcome.

Holiday Event in Alstead

Time: 5:45 PM
Place: Third Congregational Church, Alstead, NH (about 17 miles from Keene)
Price: Free
Ages: All

Outdoor Christmas Caroling in front the Third Congregational Church; refreshments in fellowship hall follows; dressy warmly and bring flashlights.

What's special about today?

Hanukkah begins

Monday, December 19th Events

Lego Club at the Library

Time: 4:00 PM-5:30 PM

Place: Keene Public Library
Price: Free

Ages: All

The library's LEGO club is open to to kids of all ages. For more information, call: Gail Zachariah at 603-352-0157.

What's special about today?

National oatmeal muffin day
Benjamin Franklin began publishing Poor Richard's Almanac, 1732
Charles Dickens published "A Christmas Carol.", 1843

Sunday, December 18th Events

"Messiah Sing"

Time: 7:00 PM-9:00 PM
Place: United Church of Christ
Price: Free
Ages: All

The United Church of Christ in Keene hosts its annual “Messiah Sing” at 7 pm, Dec. 18, at the church, 23 Central Square, Keene, NH. You can be the chorus for the Christmas section (Part I) and “Hallelujah Chorus” of Handel’s “Messiah.” Director of Music Renea Waligora will conduct a chamber orchestra, organ, soloists, and choral ensemble. Scores are available to borrow. Audience members are also cordially invited. A reception in the church parlor follows. The concert is free, but a suggested donation.

Nelson Town Band Holiday Concert

Time: 4:00 PM-5:00 PM
Place: Nelson Town Hall, Nelson, NH (about 11 miles from Keene)
Price: Free
Ages: All

Join the Nelson Town Band at the Nelson Town Hall for an hour of Holiday music and cookies. No charge. For more information: David Morse 603-283-2697 dmorse@ne.rr.com

Winter Solstice Pageant

 

Time: 10:15 AM
Place: Unitarian Universalist Church, Peterborough, NH (about 19 miles from Keene)

Price: Free
Ages: All

Celebration with dance, music, choir and some elements of surprise, and symbolic characters.

Solstice Celebration

Time: 4:00 PM
Place: Unitarian Universalist Church, Keene, NH
Price: Free
Ages: All

A service to celebrate the coming of the light. Please join us!

Santa's Workshop
 
Time: 11:00 AM-4:00 PM
Place: Monadnock's Crafters Guild, Peterborough, NH (about 19 miles from Keene)
Price: Free, craft workshops offered $10 or less (call for info)
Ages: All

Crafts, cookie luminaries, make your own items, bring camera for Santa pictures. Book signing from 1-4 with Cindy Davis. 603-784-5154.
 

What's special about today?

Bake cookies day

Slavery was abolished with the ratification of the 13th amendment to the constitution, 1865
Steven Spielberg's birthday, 1946

Saturday, December 17th Events

Annual Christmas Bird Count

Time: Contact Dave, info below
Place: Contact Dave, info below
Price: Free

Ages: Older crowd

For Hancock, Peterborough and surrounding towns. It’s the 38th year of the count—the first 19 years coordinated by Meade Cadot, and now it’s the 19th for Dave Rowell too! You need not be an expert to participate in this, the world’s oldest and largest biological survey and “citizen scientist” endeavor, To join the fun and learn the location of this year’s end-of-day, pass-the-hat, pizza-and-potluck party call Dave Rowell at 924-8790.

The 12 Days of Christmas

Time: 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM
Place: Capitol Center for the Arts, 44 S. Main St., Concord, NH (about 51 miles from Keene)
Price: $12.50 children/$16.50 adults
Ages: All

A gift for all! Students of Eastern Ballet Institute and singers from Concord Community Music School’s “Purple Finches” children’s chorus present a wonderfully festive collaboration, centered by a creative rendition of the classic holiday tune, “The Twelve Days of Christmas”.
From the” Twelve Drummers Drumming” to the” Partridge in a Pear Tree” and over one-hundred young performers cast, this will truly be a community based holiday event, not to be missed! Buy tickets.

Martial Arts Fun Night

Time: 6:30 PM-9:00 PM
Place: Martial Arts Principles, 233 Marlboro St., Keene, NH
Price: $10
Ages: 4-12

Deserve a night off? Kids fun night! Fitness, safety, life skills in a fun, friendly, safe environment. Pizza and drinks included in price. Register today by calling Joanna at 603-352-2299. Website: martialartsprinciples.com

Ballet Misha "The Nutcracker"

Time: 1:00 PM and 7:00 PM
Place: The Dana Center at Anselm's College, 100 Saint Anselm Drive, Manchester, NH (about 63 miles from Keene)
Price: $18 per person
Ages: All

Ballet Misha presents "The Nutcracker", on Saturday, December 17th at 1:00 PM and 7:00 PM, and on Sunday, December 18th at 1:00 PM, at The Dana Center at St. Anselm's College, Manchester, NH.  This full length production of the classic holiday ballet features original choreography by artistic director, Amy Fortier, and a cast that includes over 50 local children.  Tickets are $18.00 in advance or $20.00 at the door. 

Tickets are available at www.balletmisha.com, or at the Dimensions in Dance studios, 575 South Willow Street, Manchester, NH.  For more information, visit www.balletmisha.com or call 603-668-4196.

Winter Solstice Party

Time: 7:00 PM-11:00 PM

Place: Nelson Town Hall, Nelson, NH (about 11 miles from Keene)
Price: $5
Ages: All

On Saturday, December 17 the Monadnock Folklore Society will hold their Annual Solstice Party starting at 7:00 PM. The Monadnock Folklore Society brings this community event to the Nelson Town Hall each year, admission is $5, and treats are appreciated for the dessert potluck. 

This year the evening will begin with a holiday concert featuring a selection of traditional and original seasonal music; as part of the concert 2011 Johnny Trombly Scholarship recipient  will entertain us with their musicianship. The Folklore Society invites you to bring along your favorite holiday dessert and we’ll supply the beverages for the intermission. After the concert the chairs and benches are cleared to make way for a traditional New England Contradance. 

Unfortunately, or not, the dance is often interrupted by various groups of unsavory characters presenting their idea of seasonal entertainment. These diversions, sometimes involving costumed individuals making complete fools of themselves or performing ancient ritual dances to help us through this dark time of the year, are generally tolerated as once they are applauded and fed we can return to dancing the night away.

American Girl Club

Time: 2:00 PM-4:00 PM
Place: Village Square Booksellers, Bellows Falls, VT (about 22 miles from Keene)
Price: Free
Ages: 5 and up

Reading aloud, coloring & crafts based upon American Girl dolls. Ages 5 & up (independent craftswork).Bring your dolls & your friends.
Call 802-463-9404 or email the bookstore to reserve a space – info@villagesquarebooks.com

The Language of Cats and Dogs

Time: 7:00 PM
Place: Hancock Library, Hancock, NH (about 22 miles from Keene)
Price: Free
Ages: Older crowd

With Dr. Michelle Posage. Have you ever wondered what your pet was trying to say to you? Dog and cats are talking to us all the time, but unfortunately their message often is lost in translation. Miscommunication leads to poor training, behavior problems like aggressive behavior, and fatal blows to the human-animal bond. This review of canine and feline communication will discuss how dogs an cats use scent, vocalization, and body language relate to each other and to us. Dr. Michelle Posage enjoys talking about dogs and cats almost as much as she loves being around them. She holds a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Michigan State University, as well as a Bachelor of Science degree in Zoology with concentrations in neurobiology and animal behavior, also from MSU. She teaches small animal behavior in the Applied Animal Science department at Thompson School and is a practicing veterinary behaviorist at the Animal Medical Center of New England where she accepts referrals from other veterinarians and animal professionals to treat serious behavior issues in dogs and cats. Dr. Posage has published her research on animal shelter adoptions in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association and is a contributing author for the books, Shelter Medicine for Veterinarians and Staff and Mental Health and Well-being in Animals. Subscribers enjoy her monthly Pet Column in the Nashua Telegraph. Free and open to all.

Holiday Concert

Time: 3:00 PM
Place: Saxtons River Community Arts Center, Saxtons River, VT (about 25 miles from Keene)
Price: Free
Ages: All

Main Street Arts will offer Songs for a Winter’s Eve, its annual musical gift to the community, Friday and Saturday, Dec. 16 and 17 at 7 p.m., with a 3 p.m. matinee Saturday.
Cota and Cota Oil is the sponsor of this year’s event at the Saxtons River community arts center.
The 14-voice adult chorus will offer songs of the season, including How Like a Winter, An Evening in December and Irving Berlin’s White Christmas.
The enthusiastic children’s chorus will add its own magical touch to the program with seasonal songs from American, Sephardic and Israeli traditions. The program will also include several pieces written by New England composers Lui Collins and Kathy Lowe. Harpist Carol Wood will accompany the chorus for several numbers on the Irish harp.
The concert features a community sing, readings, duets, quartets and solos and concludes with the traditional Celtic blessing sung to a special light display.
Elizabeth Giguere-Kimball is director of the adult chorus, and the children’s chorus is directed by Valerie Kosednar.
There is no admission charge for the concert, but donations for Main Street Arts are welcome. Those attending are encouraged to bring a donation of non-perishable food for Our Place Drop-in Center in Bellows Falls.
Further information is available by contacting MSA at (802) 869-2960, e-mailing info@mainstreetarts.org or accessing the center’s Web site at www.MainStreetArts.org.

Pictures with Santa
 
Time: 10:00 AM-1:00 PM
Place: Colony Mill Marketplace, first floor, Keene, NH
Price: Free
Ages: All

Professional photos with Santa. Also the 18th.

Holiday Festival of Music

Time: 7:00 PM
Place: Monadnock Regional Middle/High School, Swanzey, NH (a few miles from Keene)
Price: $6 Adults/$3 Children
Ages: All

Tickets are now on sale for the MRMHS Fine and Performing Arts Department's annual Holiday Festival of Music.  Call 352-6575 x 170 or stop by the music room to see Roni Hoffman to purchase or reserve tickets.  Admission is $6 for adults, and $3 for children under 12.
Our traditional holiday show features the MRMHS chorus, polyphonic choir, high school band and jazz ensemble.  Favorite scenes such as the Toy Soldiers and the Angel scene are always crowd-pleasers.  MRHS choral alumni are always invited to join the high school chorus to sing the Hallelujah Chorus.  There will also be novelty acts and dance performances.  The public is invited to attend any of the three scheduled performances, starting at 7 pm in the high school auditorium, on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, December 15, 16 and 17.

What's special about today?

National maple syrup day
Wright Brother's day
John Whittier's birthday, 1807