Hip Hop Nutcracker
You haven't seen The Nutcracker like this. The Hip Hop Nutcracker takes it back to 1980s Brooklyn by incorporating a genre of music consisting of stylized rhythm and a celebration of love, community and excitement. Enjoy an entertainment-filled evening accompanied by a thrilling cast of dancers, a DJ and violinists. $22-$50. Dec. 9 7:30 p.m., State Theatre, 1501 Euclid, Cleveland, 216-771-4444, playhousesquare.org
Wintertide
Bob Chilcott's “Wenceslas” will be the presented by the Western Reserve Chorale with artistic director David Gilson. This detailed, unique musical narrative tells the story of Good King Wenceslas on the Feast of Stephen and features the chorale, soloists and a brass ensemble in a colorful array of styles to recount this snow-bound story. There also will be selections by Warlock, Hassler, Handel plus arrangements of familiar carols by Jakobs, Chilcott, Ringwald and more. Free. Dec. 9 7 p.m., Church of the Gesu, 2470 Miramar Blvd., University Heights, 216-791-0061, westernreservechorale.org
Glow
Enjoy the holiday season at Cleveland Botanical Garden's winter spectacular. Take pleasure in the twinkling lights and illuminated garden pathways while listening to musicians and carolers. With activities including gingerbread house workshops, rides on the Garden Express, Affiliate Garden club trees and breakfast with Santa, Glow gives you more reason to fall in love with the holiday season. $12-$16. Dec 7 & 8 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Dec. 9 noon-6 p.m. Cleveland Botanical Garden, 11030 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, 216-721-1600, cbgarden.org
Best Party of the Year Benefit
Benefiting the Hunger Network of Greater Cleveland, this year’s gala includes a live and silent auction, 50/50 raffle and a wine pull. The 29th annual event raises funds to support services needed to feed hungry Cleveland families. This black-and-white attire event features food and drinks from local businesses such as Adega, Dewey’s Pizza, Barley House Cleveland and more. $109-$119. Dec. 7 7-11:30 p.m, Westin Cleveland, 777 St. Clair Ave., Cleveland, 216-771-7700, hungernetwork.org
Museo
Sick of the holiday films on Hallmark that all follow the same cheesy plot? Then check out Museo at the Cleveland Institute of Art Cinematheque. The comedy-thriller follows two veterinary students as they rob Mexico's National Museum of Anthropology on Christmas Eve. $11. Dec. 7 7 p.m., Dec. 8 9:20 p.m., Cleveland Institute of Art Cinematheque, 11610 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, 216-421-7450, cia.edu/cinematheque
5 Things To Do In Cleveland This Weekend: Dec. 7-9
Get in the holiday spirit with the Western Reserve Chorale, Botanical Gardens, hip-hop dancers and more.
