Dance

Dec. 6,13, 20, & 27 8 p.m. - 10 p.m. 

Weekly Wednesday Conta Dance

Princeton Country Dancers, Suzanne Patterson Building, 1 Monument Drive, Princeton

(908) 359-4837 | pcd_ex@googlegroups.com | princetoncountrydancers.org 

Contra dancing brings joy and laughter and friends into your life. It is fun beyond words. Contra dancing is done to live music – guitar and fiddle and other instruments, playing jigs and reels. A caller teaches each dance, and tells you what to do. You just need to know how to walk! No need to bring a partner 

*Ticket Cost: $15; Dec. 27 Event Free to 35 years and younger! 

Dec. 8 & 9, 7:30 p.m. 

The Mercer Dance Ensemble Winter Showcase 2023 

Kelsey Theatre at Mercer County Community College, 1200 Old Trenton Rd, West Windsor Township | Kelsey Theatre & The Mercer Dance Ensemble   

(609) 570-3333 | kelsey.mccc.edu  

The Mercer Dance Ensemble features a group of MCCC’s most talented students, faculty, and alumni, plus guest choreographers and dancers. Together they weave a tapestry of modern dance, ballet and other forms into a fascinating concert of movement and music.

*Free Event

Historical Happenings

Dec. 10, 11 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. 

“Washington’s Landing in New Jersey” 

Washington Crossing State Park, Titusville

(609) 738-0765 | wcpa-nj.com/landing 

Can you imagine rowing through ice floes, and then trudging ten miles through a blizzard in the middle of the night — and your destination is a battle to decide the fate of your country? The paintings that show General Washington crossing the Delaware on that snowy Christmas night in 1776 have forever caught the imagination of the public — so much so that reenactments in Pennsylvania attract thousands of visitors each year. But what happened once the troops landed in New Jersey? Get a glimpse at Washington Crossing State Park in Titusville, NJ.

Please join NJ State Park historians, the Washington Crossing Park Association, the First Rhode Island Regiment, and other NJ-based reenactor groups who will give the public an opportunity to experience both the Crossing and the March to Trenton through the eyes of the men and women who lived it.

Dec. 26 - 31

Patriots Week Events 

The Old Barracks Museum, 101 Barrack St., Trenton

(609) 396-1776 | info@barracks.org | patriotsweek.com

Trenton, NJ - Patriots Week, a beloved celebration of Trenton’s revolutionary role in America’s history, makes its return this year with a full itinerary! The Old Barracks Museum is pleased to bring back the Colonial Ball, the Battles of Trenton Reenactments, and Puppet Shows.

The Colonial Ball will take place on Friday, December 29, at 7 p.m. It will be held at the Masonic Temple, across the street from the museum. This is your opportunity to be whisked away to the past while you mingle and dance with the soldiers of the Battles of Trenton. Period dress is neither required nor discouraged, refreshments will be served. Tickets are $40 for non-members, $35 for members and must be purchased in advance. Tickets will not be available at the door.

The Battles of Trenton Reenactments will be held on Saturday, December 30. The first reenactment will take place at 11 a.m. at the Battle Monument, the second will begin at 3 p.m. in Mill Hill Park. Come to the museum to watch and follow the soldiers as they march out to fight on the original battlefields. These events are rain or shine and are free to attend.

“The Trouble with Trenton” interactive puppet shows, presented by Tuckers Tales, will also be held on Saturday, December 30 at 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. at Warren Street Plaza. The puppet shows are a “mini” historical look at American history and are free to attend.

From December 27th through December 30th, the Old Barracks Museum will be offering discounted admission. Open 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., admission will be $5 per person, free for children 5 and under as well as Active Duty Military. Musket demonstrations will take place at 1 p.m. daily and are included with entry fee.

Holiday Happenings

Dec. 8, 7:30 p.m. | Dec. 9, 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. 

Christmastown, staged reading of a new musical by Sydney Hwang

Lewis Center for the Arts’ Program in Theater & Music Theater, Drapkin Studio at Lewis Arts complex on the Princeton University campus:120 Alexander St, Princeton 

(609) ­258­-5262 | lewiscenter@princeton.edu | tickets.princeton.edu 

In the holly and jolly North Pole town of Christmastown, Mrs. Claus is in charge of making sure that Christmas operations run smoothly. Christmastown is a place where everything is perfect, and nobody ever wants to leave… until now. Mrs. Claus’s daughter Clara starts to dream about moving to California, and Christmastown is thrown upside down. With music inspired by carols, jazz, pop, and more, Christmastown is about family, friends, love, and the true meaning of Christmas. Staged reading of this new musical with book, music, and lyrics by Princeton senior Sydney Hwang.

*Free & open to the public; advance tickets encouraged

Dec. 9 & 10, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Trenton Punk Rock Flea Market: Wreck The Halls!

CURE Insurance Arena, 81 Hamilton Ave, Trenton

The Punk Rock Flea Market returns for their annual holiday “Wreck The Halls” festival featuring more than 500 unique vendors over two days, food trucks, special guests and so much more.

*Ticket Cost: $15 a day; $10 after 1 p.m. on Sunday

Dec. 9, 10 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. 

Festival of Trees Family Morning and Storytime

Morven Museum & Garden; 55 Stockton St, Princeton 

(609) 924-8144 | info@morven.org | morven.org 

Bring the whole family for a special holiday morning with Morven’s Festival of Trees and the Princeton Storytelling Circle. 

The morning will begin at 10:00 a.m. with a self-guided visit to the 2023 Festival of Trees. Families can then visit the museum’s Stockton Education Center for activities, treats, and storytime with the Princeton Storytelling Circle. Storytellers will share a diverse collection of winter folk tales and holiday stories that are sure to delight adult and young audience members alike.

*Ticket Cost: General Admission, $15; Morven Member, $10, Children 12 and under, $5

Dec. 9, 1 p.m. & 5 p.m.

American Repertory Ballet's The Nutcracker 

Patriots Theater at the War Memorial, 1 Memorial Dr., Trenton 

(732) 249-1254 | nj.gov/state/memorial

The Nutcracker holds a special place in the hearts of both new and longtime patrons, becoming synonymous with the holiday season. Its endearing story, Tchaikovsky’s brilliant score, and iconic choreography create a memorable experience for the whole family. This holiday favorite tells the magical story of Clara and her Nutcracker Prince as they embark on a journey, battling toy soldiers and larger-than-life mice, and travel through a whirlwind of dancing snowflakes to the Land of Sweets. Greeted by the Sugar Plum Fairy and her Cavalier, Clara enjoys a suite of brilliant and joyful dances before opening her eyes to the familiar sights of her home, wondering if it was all a dream.

This celebrated production includes an outstanding roster of professional artists plus over 100 children from Princeton Ballet School, the official school of American Repertory Ballet.

*Ticket Cost: $20-$55

Dec. 11

Mercer County Holiday Toy Drive 

Multiple County Drop-off Locations, The County of Mercer 

(609) 303-0700 | Drop Off Locations  

Mercer County Executive Brian M. Hughes invites county residents, businesses and civic groups to join Mercer County employees in their annual Holiday Toy Drive. Toys can be dropped off at a number of convenient locations around the county, and the Mercer County Park Commission will ensure your gift goes directly to a deserving area child. Holiday toy donations are needed by the morning of December 11. 

Dec. 13, 6 p.m. 

Holiday Paper Quilling Workshop

Morven Museum & Garden; 55 Stockton St, Princeton 

(609) 924-8144 | info@morven.org | morven.org 

Inspired by the beautiful paper decorations adorning Morven’s Festival of Trees, join teaching artist and founder of Hummingbird Arts April Zay as she leads the class in creating unique festive designs and holiday cards. Your ticket includes access to the museum and the Festival of Trees from 5:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Explore and gain inspiration for your paper quilling artwork prior to the class. The workshop will begin at 6:00 p.m. in the museum's Stockton Education Center. 

No prior experience is required. All supplies will be provided. Participants get to take home their artwork and a paper quilling tool. Space is limited to 25 participants. This workshop is most suitable for ages 12+.

*Ticket Cost: General Admission, $20; Morven Member, $10

Dec. 13, 7:30 p.m. 

Mercer County Community College (MCCC) Jazz Band Winter Concert

Kelsey Theatre at Mercer County Community College, 1200 Old Trenton Rd, West Windsor Township | Kelsey Theatre  

(609) 570-3333 | kelsey.mccc.edu  

The MCCC Jazz Band, directed by Scott Hornick, features MCCC students, faculty, and special guests, and will present a varied program that includes the works of Cedar Walton, Herbie Hancock, Bart Howard, Charles Trenet, Arthur Johnston, Stevie Wonder, Dee Lite, The B-52’s and more. All selections feature standout improvisations by MCCC jazz students.

*Free Concert

Dec. 14, 6 p.m.

Festival of Trees After Hours Tour 

Morven Museum & Garden; 55 Stockton St, Princeton 

(609) 924-8144 | info@morven.org | morven.org 

Led by Morven’s Interim Director and Curator, Beth Allan, explore the little known stories of Morven’s history with an “after hours” tour amidst the holiday decor of the annual Festival of Trees. 

Attendees will also have the opportunity to learn about Morven’s brand new publication, Images of America: Morven (Arcadia Publishing) written by Morven’s curators Beth Allan and Jesse Gordon Simmons. 

Festive light refreshments will be served in Morven’s Garden Room at 6:00 p.m. The tour with Beth Allan will follow at 6:30 p.m. This event is limited to 20 people.

*Ticket Cost: General Admission, $20; Morven Member, $10 

Dec. 15

Handmade Hat & Scarf Drive: Final Collection Day  

Mercer County Library System: Lawrence Headquarters Branch:  2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrenceville

(609) 883-8292 | mcl.org

If you want to give back to those in need this season, the Lawrence Headquarters Branch is collecting handmade scarves and hats to be donated to HomeFront. Donated items may be dropped off at the Lawrence Headquarters Branch during the library’s open hours. Collection of donated items will end on Friday, December 15. Every contribution makes a difference.

HomeFront helps families end the cycle of poverty. Their mission is to end homelessness in Central New Jersey by harnessing the kindness, resources and expertise of the community.

Dec. 15, 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. 

Heritage Trees at the Trent House: Opening Reception 

The Trent House Association at The William Trent House Museum, 15 Market St., Trenton 

(609) 334-6904 | williamtrenthouse.org 

The Trent House Association will host a display of lighted trees decorated by six Trenton area organizations on the theme of their heritage and contributions. An opening reception will be held in the Visitor Center on Saturday, December 16, from 5 to 7 p.m., with tree lighting at 6 p.m. This free event is open to all with plenty of free parking at the rear of the Trent House site, across from the Hughes Justice Complex.  

The Trent House Association documents, shares, and celebrates the long history of Trenton and its people. The 2023 Heritage Tree event is an opportunity to recognize and honor several community organizations that contribute so much to our community. This year’s participating organizations are the African American Cultural Collaborative of Mercer County, the Rutgers Master Gardeners of Mercer County, the Trenton Puerto Rican Community & Friends, the Trenton South Ward Neighborhood Association, and the Trenton chapters of the Alpha Kappa Alpha and Delta Sigma Theta Sororities.

Dec. 28, 1 p.m. - 2 p.m. 

Holiday-Time Tour with Steve Petrucelli

Morven Museum & Garden; 55 Stockton St, Princeton 

(609) 924-8144 | info@morven.org | morven.org

Celebrate the end of the year with a special tour of Striking Beauty: New Jersey Tall Case Clocks, 1730 - 1830 led by exhibition advisor Steve Petrucelli. Steve will guide attendees through the over 50 New Jersey tall case clocks on display, providing a behind-the-scenes look at the history and mechanics of these unique timepieces. 

*Ticket Cost: General Admission, $15; Morven Member, $10

Lectures/Readings

Dec. 4, 5 p.m. 

Fall Student Reading, presented by the Lewis Center for the Arts’ Program in Creative Writing

The Lewis Center for the Arts’ Program in Theater & Music Theater at Princeton University; Chancellor Green Rotunda on the Princeton University campus

(609) ­258­-5262 | lewiscenter@princeton.edu | arts.princeton.edu 

Selected students from fall courses in Creative Writing read from their work in fiction, poetry, screenwriting and literary translation as part of the Althea Ward Clark W’21 Reading Series, presented by the Program in Creative Writing.

*Free & Open to the Public; No Ticket Required 

Dec. 4, 7 p.m. 

Conversation with Broadway director John Doyle

The Lewis Center for the Arts’ Program in Theater & Music Theater at Princeton University; Godfrey Kerr Theater Studio at Lewis Arts complex on the Princeton University campus: 122 Alexander St, Princeton

(609) ­258­-5262 | lewiscenter@princeton.edu | arts.princeton.edu

After 10 years on the Princeton Program in Theater faculty, Tony Award-winning Broadway theater director John Doyle concludes his final semester in December. On Monday, December 4, Professor of Theater Stacy Wolf will interview Doyle about his work and his Princeton legacy. Doyle is perhaps best known for his groundbreaking productions of Stephen Sondheim’s musicals, completely reimagining Sweeney Todd, Pacific Overtures, Assassins, and more. Doyle’s technique of actor-musicianship and his minimalist aesthetic, combined with his deeply human and astute dramaturgy, revived and revivified Sondheim’s shows in profound ways. Doyle’s work changed how artists, audiences, critics, and scholars understand Sondheim’s musicals. Doyle has taught and advised many Princeton students, shaping their approaches to new and classic works.

*Free & Open to the Public; No Ticket Required 

Dec. 5, 7 p.m. 

The Circle or Prophetic Dream, presented by the Lewis Center for the Arts’ Program in Dance

The Lewis Center for the Arts’ Program in Theater & Music Theater at Princeton University; Hearst Dance Theater at Lewis Arts complex on the Princeton University campus: 120 Alexander St, Princeton

(609) ­258­-5262 | lewiscenter@princeton.edu | arts.princeton.edu 

The Circle or Prophetic Dream is anthropological research on how the body and sound inhabit social space as new forms of nomadism. Princeton Arts Fellow Christopher "Unpezverde" Núñez and students in his fall course, “Introduction to Vortex: A Sacred Dance Practice,” excavate memory through psychospiritual embodiment to experience collective trance, community and empowerment. Núñez and sound designer Alfonso Castro are developing an acoustic practice that regenerates the cells of the dancers; particularly Black, indigenous, disabled, and immigrant dancers who carry intergenerational fatigue. Set and Costume Designer, Branden Charles Wallace, takes inspiration from the circle as a cultural, ancestral, and mystical symbol that has captivated the human imagination through time.

*Free & Open to the Public; No Ticket Required 

Dec. 6, 1:30 p.m. 

Readings from The Princeton Comics Notebook, presented by the Lewis Center for the Arts’ Princeton Atelier

The Lewis Center for the Arts at Princeton University, Labyrinth Book Stoe, 122 Nassau St., Princeton

(609) ­258­-5262 | lewiscenter@princeton.edu 

Students in E.S. Glenn’s fall Princeton Atelier course, “How to Write a Graphic Novel,” read from The Princeton Comics Notebook, an anthology of stories created over the course of the semester combining drawings and text. Glenn is a regular cartoonist for The New Yorker and creator of the graphic novels Unsmooth #1 (2020) and its prequel Unsmooth #2: BUM (2021). All audiences attending will receive a published copy of the graphic anthology.

*Free & Open to the Public; No Ticket Required 

Nature

Dec. 6,13, 20, & 27, 10 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. 

Watson Woods Walkers 

Roebling Park at the Watson House parking lot, Mercer County Park Commission 

(609) 888-3218 | natureprograms@mercercounty.org 

Enjoy an easy mile-long walk with our group as we observe the seasons change while exploring the beautiful trails of Roebling Park each week of December! 

*Free Event

Dec. 9 & 23, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. 

Duck Walk

Roebling Park at Spring Lake parking lot, Mercer County Park Commission

(609) 888-3218 | natureprograms@mercercounty.org 

Did you know ducks and other waterfowl migrate south to New Jersey in the fall? Let’s take a walk and see if we can spot some of these seasonal visitors. Bring your binoculars or borrow ours.

*Free Event; Registration Required 

Dec. 9, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. 

Second Saturday Standing Yoga and Nature Walk

Tulpehaking Nature Center, 157 Westcott Avenue, Hamilton, Mercer County Park Commission 

(609) 888-3218 | natureprograms@mercercounty.org  | abbottmarshlands.org/events 

Join us for some fresh air and exercise during this monthly outdoor yoga mini-class and
nature walk. 

*Free Event; Registration Required 

Dec. 11, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. 

Rhythm of the Land Painting Workshop

Tulpehaking Nature Center, 157 Westcott Avenue, Hamilton, Mercer County Park Commission 

(609) 888-3218 | natureprograms@mercercounty.org  | abbottmarshlands.org/events 

In this workshop, we will use watercolor and oil pastels to express the beauty of trees. The first half hour includes a tour of Susan Hoenig’s “On Lenape Land” exhibition.

*Free 18+ Event; Registration Required 

Dec. 15, 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. 

Guided Nature Walk

Roebling Park at the Watson House parking lot, Mercer County Park Commission 

(609) 888-3218 | natureprograms@mercercounty.org 

Join us as we explore a different park trail each month while admiring various elements of nature. Wear sturdy shoes, bring binoculars and dress for the weather.

*Free Event; Registration Required 

Theater

Kelsey Theatre

Dec. 8, 7 p.m. | Dec. 9, 1 p.m. & 4 p.m. | Dec. 10 at 1 p.m & 4 p.m.

'Twas The Night Before Christmas 

Kelsey Theatre at Mercer County Community College, 1200 Old Trenton Rd, West Windsor Township | Kelsey Theatre     

(609) 570-3333 | kelsey.mccc.edu  

The excitement and wonder of the long-awaited midnight visit by Santa Claus, made famous in Clement Moore’s beloved poem, is brought to life in a fun and enchanting musical perfect for even the littlest ones. Bring the whole family for this joyous Kelsey holiday tradition.  Stay and take a photo with Santa!

*Ticket Cost: $16/$14 

Dec. 9, 8 p.m.

A Very Kelsey Christmas Cabaret

Dec. 15, 7 p.m. | Dec. 16 & 17, 1 p.m. & 4 p.m. 

The Nutcracker 

Kelsey Theatre at Mercer County Community College, 1200 Old Trenton Rd, West Windsor Township | Kelsey Theatre     

(609) 570-3333 | kelsey.mccc.edu  

The adventurous Clara sneaks downstairs on Christmas Eve to play with her favorite present from Uncle Drosselmeyer – A Nutcracker, when a menacing Mouse King suddenly confronts her. Saved by her Nutcracker Prince, she is whisked away to the magical Land of The Sweets. Family and friends of all ages can celebrate the holiday season together at this enchanting show, and stay and meet the performers after the show.

*Ticket Cost: $16/$14 

Dec.16, 8 p.m.

White Christmas Sing-Along

Kelsey Theatre at Mercer County Community College, 1200 Old Trenton Rd, West Windsor Township | Kelsey Theatre     

(609) 570-3333 | kelsey.mccc.edu  

The perfect Holiday Event, as you watch this beloved movie musical on the big screen!  But Theater to Go adds an additional cast member – you!  In a blizzard of audience participation activities, you will be guided by our hosts to Sing Along and Play Along with the movie.  Come early for the Holiday Treats and our Ugly Christmas Sweater contest (of course). 

*Ticket Cost: $22/20 

McCarter Theatre Center

Dec. 1, 8 p.m. | Dec. 2, 2 p.m. & 8 p.m. | Dec. 3, 2 p.m. 

Princeton Dance Festival

The McCarter Theatre Center, 91 University Place, Princeton, Berlind Theater Venue

(609) 258-2787 | McCarter.org 

Dec. 6 - 24

A Christmas Carol

The McCarter Theatre Center, 91 University Place, Princeton, Matthews Theater Venue

(609) 258-2787 | McCarter.org

McCarter's annual holiday tradition returns with magic, music, and merriment for all. Follow Ebenezer Scrooge (Brooklyn Nine-Nine's Joel McKinnon Miller) on a fantastical journey through Christmases past, present and future and enjoy this classic story as it comes to life around you. Create magical memories with the ones you love as this festive spectacle ushers you into the spirit of the season with all the delight, wonder, and generosity that Scrooge himself discovers.

*Ticket Cost: $35 - $65

Dec. 14, 7:30 p.m.

The Ultimate Christmas Show (abridged)

The McCarter Theatre Center, 91 University Place, Princeton, Berlind Theater Venue

(609) 258-2787 | McCarter.org

A send-up of your average holiday production, the Ultimate Christmas Show (abridged) welcomes its audience to the Annual Holiday Variety Show and Christmas Pageant at St. Everybody's Non-Denominational Church of Acceptance (where all faiths are welcome because they'll believe anything). The only problem? None of the acts scheduled to perform have arrived, so three members attempt to perform the entire show themselves in a raucous display of physical comedy and absurdist humor. Irreverent yet heartwarming, the Ultimate Christmas Show (abridged) does feature comic depictions of violence, mild innuendo, bawdy language, and the occasional rude word, and therefore is not recommended for children under 12.

*Ticket Cost: $25 - $65

Dec. 16, 7 p.m.

Choir! Choir! Choir! Presents “Un-Silent Night”: An EPIC Holiday Sing- Along!

The McCarter Theatre Center, 91 University Place, Princeton, Berlind Theater Venue

(609) 258-2787 | McCarter.org

Choir! Choir! Choir! transforms traditional caroling into a rousing holiday sing-a-long experience. Gather your friends and loved ones to be part of the magic of this global phenomenon, where voices unite in harmony to create an unforgettable Yuletide celebration. Join the festivities and make this holiday season truly special with this one-of-a-kind holiday show.

*Ticket Cost: $25 - $45