Weekend Planner: Holly Days, Nutcracker Ballet, and Live and Local Performers

The weekend is finally here, so it's time to get out and enjoy it. There's lots to do in the area now that the holiday season arrived. All week long, we have shared our daily picks for fun and interesting events happening in the area to help you plan your weekend adventures.

Here's a recap:

Where: 

When: Saturday at 6:30 p.m.

Why go: Farmington Hills Special Services and the Farmington Dance Company are bringing to you a night of dance, music and poetry as local talents shine. With a wide variety of over 80 performers, you are sure to enjoy the diversity of this event. Dinner is also included in the evening. Tickets are $13.

Where: 

When: Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Why go: Bundle up and enjoy strolling through Downtown Farmington as they bring the nostalgic feeling of the holidays to you with carolers singing, hot cocoa to sip on, and the Greens and Gifts market which will feature unique holiday gifts from local artisans and crafters and holiday greenery. On Saturday, you can watch an ice carving demonstration, see the Holiday Tree Lighting at the , watch the Salvation Army Band perform, or have a free family photo taken with Santa.  There will also be free holiday movies at the starting at 10 a.m. The festive event also features stories and cookies with Mrs. Claus, a kids holiday craft area, and free gift wrapping.

Where: 

When: Saturday at 11 a.m. and 3:30 p.m, Sunday at 3 p.m.

Why go: Experience the magic of the Michigan Classic Ballet Company as they transport you into the Land of Sweets in their 22nd annual full-length production of The Nutcracker this weekend.  This magical holiday adventure will transform snowflakes into dancing maidens, toys into whimsical beings,  and bring the Sugar Plump Fairy to life.  Performed in the  auditorium this classic holiday ballet will bring memories to your family to cherish this holiday season.

Where: 

When: Sunday at 3 p.m.

Why go: The Holocaust Memorial Center unveils its "The Last Goodbye" exhibit on Sunday. The exhibit displays panels that are adapted from the original exhibition at the Jewish Museum London. The panels highlight Kindertransport, which was the rescue of tens of thousands of children from Nazi Europe. The panels are displayed with the Kindertransport Quilts interactive exhibit. The Memorial Center will also be showing the gripping documentary film "Nicky's Family" which shares the story of Sir Nicholas Winton who helped organize the rescue of 669 Czech and Slovak children as part of Kindertransport. The film also shares the story of parents, who, concerned for their children's safety, were desperate enough to send them away before the outbreak of WWII.

Where: 

When: Saturday from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Sunday from 12 p.m. - 4 p.m.

Why go: The Farmington Garden Club presents its 10th Biennial Holiday Tables Exhibition at the Historic Spicer House this weekend. It's the perfect time to get ideas and inspiration on how to dress your own holiday table. Stroll through the Spicer House and view a dozen tables festively decorated celebrating the diverse cultures of Farmington and Farmington Hills. There will also be a small gift shop to check out plus complimentary light refreshments.