Sparklefest 2012 in Harvard Square!
Lights! Dance! Shop! Dine! Music! Theatre! Bikes! Skate! Ballet! Craft Fairs! Latkes!
And, of course, Santa Claus!
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The Harvard Square Business Association is delighted to announce our Sparklefest 2012 schedule of events. Sparklefest is a five week celebration of the holiday season in Harvard Square that begins on Plaid/Black Friday and culminates on New Year’s Eve. With colorful holiday lights adorning the trees and street lamps, Harvard Square becomes the perfect festive location to shop, dine and enjoy the holiday season. Set aside time to partake in all the family-friendly events, many of which are free and open to the public!
All Month Long
Sparklefest at Harvard Museum of Natural History
Explore glittering rare minerals on display at the Harvard Museum of Natural History. See the stunning Red Elbaite, the Flor de Lise, recently returned from a loan exhibition in San Diego. This crystal is regarded as one of the world's most magnificent rubellite specimens. It was found in Brazil's famous Jonas Mine, known for its huge, deeply colored, cranberry-red rubellites. Admire hundreds of specimens --amethyst, beryl, lazurite, labradorite, wulfenite, tourmaline —and don't forget to check out natural history-related books, games, fossils, minerals and jewelry in the museum's shop.
Harvard Museum of Natural History, 26 Oxford Street, www.hmnh.harvard.edu, (617) 495-3045
December 1
Harvard Coop Kids Storytime and Crafts
Animals in the snow; 11am
Children ages 1 to 6 and their caregivers are welcome to join us for stories and snacks. Free and open to the public.
The Harvard Coop, 1400 Massachusetts Avenue, www.thecoop.com, (617) 499-20000
December 1 – 2, 7 – 9, 14 – 16, 18 – 23
The Harvard Square Holiday Fair
The 27th annual Harvard Square Holiday Fair presents the best of New England's artisans featuring unique and affordable gift items - jewelry, pottery, cards and calendars, art, recycled silk, lamps, tiles, hats, scarves, and much more. This is not your average craft fair - it's more like a party where you can buy stuff! A high energy alternative marketplace with a great soundtrack right in the middle of Harvard Square! Hours: Sats: 10 - 7, Suns: 12 - 6, Weekdays: 11:30 – 7:30
The First Parish Unitarian Church, Zero Church Street, www.harvardsquareholidayfair.com
December 1 – 16
Jose Mateo’s Ballet Theatre’s The Nutcracker
Jose Mateo Ballet Theatre brings its acclaimed Nutcracker back for the holiday season. For an intimate Nutcracker experience like no other, Mateo’s Nutcracker captures the true spirit of the season at affordable ticket prices.
Choreographed by Artistic Director, Jose Mateo, and inspired by Tchaikovsky’s glorious score, Mateo’s ‘Nutcracker’ brings Clara’s dream world to life with festive sets, sumptuous costumes, and spectacular dancing. Over 200 children, ages 6 – 18 from throughout Massachusetts and New Hampshire join Ballet Theatre’s acclaimed company dancers as Party Children, Mice, Soldiers, Polichinelles, Cherubs, Angels and the lead role of Clara.
Tickets $38 - $50; to purchase visit https://www.ballettheatre.org/nuttix_shows
The Sanctuary Theatre, 400 Harvard Street, www.ballettheatre.org, (617) 354-7467
December 2
Cambridge 5k Yulefest
The 2nd Annual Cambridge 5K - Yulefest will take place on Sunday, December 2nd @ 10:00am. The 3.15 mile course starts & finishes on Mass Ave directly in front of Harvard Yard. Immediately following the race, runners are invited to a festive block party on Brattle St. sponsored by three local brewers. For more information visit: http://cambridge5k.com/yulefest/
Cambridge 5k Yulefest, cambridge5k.com/yulefest/
December 3
Early Music at Longy: A Winter Pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela
A festive musical celebration of medieval Iberian works from the Codex Calixtinus, the Las Huelgas Codex, and the Catigas de Santa Maria. Being held at First Church in Cambridge. 8pm.
Longy School of Music of Bard College, 27 Garden Street, www.longy.edu, (617) 876-0956
December 4 – 5
A Peter White Christmas with Mindi Abair and Rick Braun at Scullers Jazz Club
Over the past 16 years, as Peter White has kept thousands of smooth jazz fans worldwide enthralled by his spirited melodies, soulful grooves and inviting, instantly recognizable acoustic guitar tone, he’s always had a blast finding unique ways to bring his modern sensibilities to cherished pop classics. Showtimes 8pm & 10pm. $40; dinner and show $82
Scullers Jazz Club at the DoubleTree Guest Suites Boston, 400 Soldiers Road, www.scullersjazz.com, (617) 562-4111
December 5
Catie Curtis Christmas Concert at Club Passim
The Boston-area folk music scene is a vibrant one, boasting a variety of diverse artists. But if pressed to name the region's defining musicians, singer-songwriter Catie Curtis would be at the top of the list. So it is fitting that Curtis, who has called Boston home for nearly all of her 20+ years in music, returns to Club Passim in Harvard Square on December 5 with her Christmas Tour.
$25 non-members/ $23 members
Club Passim, 47 Palmer Street, www.passim.org, (617) 492-7679
December 5 to January 20, 2013
Pippin at the A.R.T.
Music and Lyrics by Stephen Schwartz | Book by Roger O. Hirson
Directed by Diane Paulus
Choreographed by Gypsy Snider of Les 7 Doigts de la Main
Original Bob Fosse choreography re-created by Chet Walker
Stephen Schwartz’s beloved coming-of-age musical features bold new staging by Diane Paulus and choreography by Gypsy Snider of Montreal’s ultra-hip circus troupe Les 7 doigts de la main. Spurred on by a mysterious group of performers, royal heir Pippin embarks on a death-defying journey to find his “corner of the sky.” Recommended Grades 9 and up.
To purchase tickets: https://tickets.americanrepertorytheater.org/Online/default.asp?doWork::WScontent::loadArticle=Load&BOparam::WScontent::loadArticle::name=PippinBWS
American Repertory Theater, 64 Brattle Street, www.americanrepertorytheater.org, (617) 547-8300
December 8
Everyone Loves Latkes
The Harvard Square Business Association (HSBA) looks forward to celebrating Hanukkah by serving free Latkes donated by gracious HSBA member restaurants. Harvard Square’s Latkes are delicious, diverse in shape, size and texture and are accompanied with creative homemade condiments. Many of the Latkes are traditional, some are Kosher and some are from our favorite ethnic restaurants.
Brattle Plaza, in front of Crema Café, 27 Brattle Street, 1:30pm – 2:30pm
December 8
Harvard Coop Kids Storytime and Crafts
Slumber Party at the Coop – Come in your Pajamas; 11am
Children ages 1 to 6 and their caregivers are welcome to join us for stories and snacks. Free and open to the public.
The Harvard Coop, 1400 Massachusetts Avenue, www.thecoop.com, (617) 499-20000
December 8
Longy Opera Winter Gala
Featuring works of Mozart (Don Giovanni), Lehar, Puccini, Gilbert & Sullivan, and holiday music. 8pm at Longy’s Pickman Hall
Longy School of Music of Bard College, 27 Garden Street, www.longy.edu, (617) 876-0956
December 10
Cambridge Art Association Paint and Wine Night at the Kathryn Schultz Gallery
Roz Sommer hosts a painting and wine drinking event with the CAA. Bring paint brushes to participate!
Please RSVP by Saturday December 1st at 5pm to info@cambridgeart.org. Purchase tickets here
The Kathryn Schultz Gallery, 25 Lowell Street, www.cambridgeart.org
December 9
Ciclismo Classico’s 16th Annual Jingle Ride
Please join the Harvard Square Business Association in welcoming over 100 cyclists from Ciclismo Classico’s 16th Annual Jingle Ride. At approximately 11:30am, the bikers will arrive in Harvard Square on Brattle Plaza (in front of Hidden Sweets). Hot chocolate and cookies will be served and the cyclists will regale the crowd with holiday carols. Not to be missed!
Ciclismo Classico’s 16th Annual Jingle Ride, 25 Brattle Street – outside of Hidden Sweets, http://www.ciclismoclassico.com/jingleride2012, (781) 646-3377
December 9 and 16
Choir of St. Paul’s Annual Christmas Concert
Choir School Annual Christmas Concert with Choir of St. Paul’s, Trebles, Schola Cantorum, Recorders, Bells, Brass and Family Carols
Tickets $25, $20 and $15
3pm both days
Choir of St. Paul’s Church Harvard Square, Bow and Arrow Streets, www.choirofstpaul.org, (617) 868-8658
December 14 – 16
Shop Over Weekend in Harvard Square
It’s the most wonderful time of the year and where better to spend it than Harvard Square? Boasting an eclectic array of stores, restaurants, historic sites and the sparkling tree in Winthrop Park, the Square offers an unparalleled festive environment. With so much to see and do, come for the weekend! Check out Harvard Square.com for full details and promotions.
December 14 – 27
The Christmas Revels: An Irish Celebration of the Winter Solstice
In 1907 immigration from Europe to the new world of the United States was at a peak. The Irish formed a significant part of this relocation, bringing with them their unique culture of poetry, dance and music plus a powerful instinct for survival. This year’s Christmas Revels puts us on the deck of the R. M. S. Carpathia as the hopeful emigres create a wild and memorable Christmas at sea.
With a powerful chorus, blazing jogs and reels, bold and lively children, fantastic stories, the best of Irish dancers and all of the magical Revels touchstones like the joyous and participatory Lord of the Dance, this promises to be a very special Christmas at Sanders Theatre!
Performers in the 42nd annual Christmas Revels include a talented 60 –member chorus of adults and children, a terrific Irish band featuring piper Paddy Keenan (ex the Bothy Band) and fiddler Sheila Falls Keohane, musician and song leader David Coffin, Steven Barkhimer, soloist Mary Casey, the thrilling O’Shea Chaplin Academy of Irish Dance, plus old friends, the Pinewoods Morris Men and Cambridge Symphonic Brass Ensemble.
Order Online: https://www.boxoffice.harvard.edu/Online/default.asp?doWork::WScontent::loadArticle=Load&BOparam::WScontent::loadArticle::article_id=A0670AFD-CE60-4E78-ABA8-30DEEE0D0A2E
Phone Sales: (617) 496-222 Tuesday – Sunday, noon to 6pm
Visit the Harvard Box Office Ticket Kiosk at 1350 Mass Ave. Box Office Hours: 12 noon – 6:00pm Tuesday – Sunday; Note: service fees apply to phone and web orders.
The Christmas Revels, Sanders Theatre, 45 Quincy Street, www.revels.org, (617) 496-2222
Sat. December 15
12-4pm: HoliDIY at the Kathryn Schultz Gallery
With host Debbie Kramer
At the Kathryn Schultz Gallery, 25 Lowell Street, Cambridge MA, 02138
Please RSVP by Monday, December 10th by 5pm to info@cambridgeart.org
$25 Members, $30 Non Members
Follow along on
Pinterest to see our HoliDIY ideas!
Purchase your tickets
here or pay at the door.
December 15
Harvard Coop Kids Santa and Mrs. Claus
Santa will hear wishes and Mrs. Claus will read stories; 11am – 2pm
Children ages 1 to 6 and their caregivers are welcome to join us for stories and snacks. Free and open to the public.
The Harvard Coop, 1400 Massachusetts Avenue, www.thecoop.com, (617) 499-20000
December 15
The New School of Music Presents: Cookies & Carols
Join us for a winter sing-a-long, seasonal craft and cookie potluck! Bring your favorite cookies to share, but no nuts, please, in case of allergies. 3:30pm – 4:30pm; free
The New School of Music, 25 Lowell Street, www.newschoolofmusic.org, (617) 492-8105
December 15 to January 6, 2013
Hansel and Gretel at the A.R.T
Directed by Allegra Libonati
In the tradition of last season’s sold-out holiday hit The Snow Queen, the A.R.T. brings another classic children’s story to life—this time, the Brothers Grimm tale of a brother, a sister, a breadcrumb trail, and a suspicious gingerbread house in the woods. Graduate acting students from the A.R.T. Institute for Advanced Theater Training star in this energetic and interactive re-telling, sure to be a sweet holiday treat for the whole family. Recommended for Grades Pre-K and up. To purchase tickets:
https://tickets.americanrepertorytheater.org/Online/default.asp?doWork::WScontent::loadArticle=Load&BOparam::WScontent::loadArticle::name=HanselBWS&sessionlanguage=&menu_id=FDFA159C-15F0-4DAC-84B1-E4091E3DF9FD&menu_id=6EF6CF86-9D2B-4597-8B76-4D4F24F54CC7
American Repertory Theater, 64 Brattle Street, www.americanrepertorytheater.org, (617) 547-8300
December 15 – 16
The Cultural Survival Bazaar at Harvard University
The Cultural Survival Bazaars are a series of cultural festivals that provide Indigenous artists, cooperatives, and their representatives from around the world the chance to sell their work directly to the American public. Hundreds of artists, cooperatives, and their representatives sell traditional and contemporary crafts, artwork, clothing, jewelry, carpets, and accessories at the Bazaars.
In addition, the Bazaars offer a wide assortment of cultural performances and presentations, which include live music, Native American storytelling, craft-making demonstrations, films, as well as the chance to talk directly with guest artisans and community advocates.
Center for Government and International Studies at Harvard – 1730 Cambridge Street
10am – 6pm; Free parking at the Broadway Garage – 7 Felton Street
Cultural Survival Winter Bazaar, http://bazaar.culturalsurvival.org/
December 15 – 16
Cambridge Center for Adult Education Holly Fair
Celebrate the holiday season at Cambridge's oldest crafts fair — held in our two historic buildings in the heart of Harvard Square. This year's Holly Fair is happening on Saturday, December 15, 2012 from 10:00 am - 5:30 pm and Sunday, December 16, 2012 from 12:00 noon - 5:00 pm.
There will be a tremendous variety of beautiful and affordable things to buy — jewelry, hats, bags, sweaters, scarves, natural beauty items, soaps, ceramics, stained glass, ornaments, photographs, cards, prints, paintings, food, and much, much more - ranging in price from $2 to $200. Holly Fair is a great place to find one-of-a-kind holiday gifts while supporting local artisans and raising money to help us keep our classes as accessible as possible. Vendor rental fees benefit CCAE's scholarships and public programming.
Center for Adult Education’s Holly Fair, 42 and 56 Brattle Street, http://www.ccae.org/holly-fair/index.html, (617) 547-6789 ext. 1
December 16
Breakfast with Santa at the Inn at Harvard
Come to the Inn at Harvard for a breakfast with Santa Claus. 6:30am – 11:00am in the Atrium Dining Room. Kids will be able to sit on Santa’s lap, take pictures with Santa and sing Christmas carols. $19.95 per adult, $8.95 per child.
Cinnamon Swirl French Toast, Buttermilk Waffles & Pancakes
Fluffy Scrambled Eggs
Crispy Smoked Bacon & Vermont Maple Sausage
Homemade Breakfast Potatoes
Individual Cereals
Omelet Station
Made to order with Sautéed Mushrooms, Fresh Herbs, Cheese, Julienne of Ham,
Red and Green Peppers, Diced Tomatoes, Spinach & Onions
Bagel Station
With a variety of Cream Cheese Spreads
Muffins, Danish, Pastries, Breads,
Buttery Croissants & Holiday Cookies
Fresh Seasonal Sliced Fruit & Berries
Assorted Juices including Orange, Cranberry & Grapefruit
Coffee, Decaffeinated Coffee, Assorted Tea,
Hot Chocolate & Chocolate Milk
$19.95 per adult ~ $8.95 per child
For reservations please call 617-520-3782
A 20% gratuity will be automatically added to your bill for your convenience
The Inn at Harvard, 1201 Massachusetts Avenue, www.theinnatharvard.com/dining.html, (617) 520-3782
December 16
Harvard Coop Kids Special Music Performance
Recklez, the Harvard Zlezmer Band will perform a special “kid-centric” performance that will have everyone kicking up their heels! 1pm
Children ages 1 to 6 and their caregivers are welcome to join us for stories and snacks. Free and open to the public.
The Harvard Coop, 1400 Massachusetts Avenue, www.thecoop.com, (617) 499-20000
December 16
Opening of The Rink at The Charles Hotel
The Charles Hotel welcomes the Cambridge community to celebrate the opening of The Rink at the Charles Hotel. This annual community event is open to the public and offers complimentary ice skating and skate rentals from noon – 6pm, with a visit from Globe Santa, performances from the Harvard Figure Skating Club and The Christmas Revels, and complimentary hot chocolate. Little ones can enjoy a Kid’s Cookie Decorating room from noon – 3pm. This year’s event will help to support Globe Santa, The Boston Globe’s annual appeal for needy children in Greater Boston.
The 2,900 square-foot Rink at The Charles remains open from December 15, 2012 until March 17, 2013 (open/close dates are weather permitting). Hours: 4pm – 7pm, Monday – Friday; 10am – 6pm weekends/holidays. Rental Rates: Child $3, Adults/$5, Family/$10. Admission: Child/$3, Adult/$5, Family/$10. Child rate for under 12; family rate for 2 adults/2children. Season passes and multi-day passes are available to enjoy ice skating all though the winter months. (weather permitting – please call or follow us on Twitter for immediate updates).
The Charles Hotel, 1 Bennett Street, www.charleshotel.com, (617) 864-1200
December 21
Choir of St. Paul’s : A Celebration of Christmas
A Celebration of Christmas: beautiful, atmospheric carols from the Choir or St. Paul’s including Benjamin Britten’s Ceremony of Carols.
Tickets $25, $20 and $15 8pm
Choir of St. Paul’s Church Harvard Square, Bow and Arrow Streets, www.choirofstpaul.org, (617) 868-8658
December 21
Paul Byrom’s Christmas Special at The Regattabar
Paul Byrom is hailed as Ireland's premier young tenor and with good reason. From an early age, his special vocal gift brought him the attention of music industry scouts and fans alike. The Dublin-born tenor began voice lessons and training when he was just seven years old and later he had the opportunity to study under the legendary Dr. Veronica Dunne, Ireland's leading lady of opera.
In 2007, Paul was invited to join Celtic Thunder as a soloist. Immediately, fans nicknamed Byrom "The Swanky Tenor" for his suave and romantic style in performing, which is clearly evident on such numbers as "Remember Me Recuerde Me" and "She" and even Billy Joel’s “Lullaby”. His amazing versatility allows him to explore repertoire ranging from opera to standards to pop and Broadway.
Paul recently released his newest CD – This is the Moment – which instantly topped the World Music and Amazon charts, and he just completed his first solo tour in the U.S. to rave reviews. A true triple threat, Paul’s talents as a singer, actor and dancer continue to keep his fans anxiously awaiting his next step.
7:30pm – Tickets $35
To purchase tickets, please visit https://www.peltrix.com/getshowtix/rbar2012/purchase.cgi?id=2759
The Regattabar, One Bennett Street, www.regattabarjazz.com, (617) 395-7757
December 21 – 22
Blue Heron: Christmas in 15th-century France & Burgundy
Music by Du Fay, Josquin, Obrecht, Brumel and others
8pm
First Church in Cambridge, 11 Garden Street
Join us at the winter solstice and celebrate a Heron Holiday with the glorious music of Franco-Flemish masters. We sing of the mystery of Advent and the joys of Christmas, and visit the courts of Burgundy for a festive New Year. Free pre-concert talk at 7:15 by Sean Gallagher (Boston University). Sponsored in part by The Cambridge Society for Early Music.
Please visit http://www.blueheronchoir.org/events/event_121221.html to purchase tickets.
First Church in Cambridge, 11 Garden Street, www.blueheronchoir.org, (617) 960-7956
December 22
Harvard Coop Kids Storytime and Crafts
Snow and winter stories and craft; 11am
Children ages 1 to 6 and their caregivers are welcome to join us for stories and snacks. Free and open to the public.
The Harvard Coop, 1400 Massachusetts Avenue, www.thecoop.com, (617) 499-20000
December 23
Choir of St. Paul’s : Organ Recital
Organ Recital with John Robinson program to include “La Nativite du Seigneur” by Oliver Messiaen and J.S. Bach’s Canonic Variations on Von Himmel Hoch.
$10 8pm
Choir of St. Paul’s Church Harvard Square, Bow and Arrow Streets, www.choirofstpaul.org, (617) 868-8658
December 24
Choir of St. Paul’s: A Service of Lessons and Carols for Christmas
A Service of Lessons and Carols for Christmas sung by the Choir or St. Paul
$25, $20 and $15 3pm
Choir of St. Paul’s Church Harvard Square, Bow and Arrow Streets, www.choirofstpaul.org, (617) 868-8658
December 29
Harvard Coop Kids Storytime and Crafts
Celebrate New Year and other parties – come dressed up; 11am
Children ages 1 to 6 and their caregivers are welcome to join us for stories and snacks. Free and open to the public.
The Harvard Coop, 1400 Massachusetts Avenue, www.thecoop.com, (617) 499-20000
For more information about Sparklefest and other events in Harvard Square, please visit
www.harvardsquare.com
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