Holidays bring The Nutcracker, Christmas concerts, and Pedal for Presents

Christmas is just weeks away and the Fort Smith region is gearing up for a slew of holiday festivities. The area will host the "The Nutcracker," the Fort Smith Public Library's Holiday Open House, a concert by the UAFS Academy of the Arts, An Olde Fashioned Christmas, and the inaugural "Pedal for Presents" fundraiser.

Western Arkansas Ballet presents "The Nutcracker"
No Christmas would be complete without "The Nutcracker." Western Arkansas Ballet will present a production of the timeless classic Dec. 13-14 at the ArcBest Performing Arts Center.

For the 29th year, WAB will showcase the talents of its local dancers in telling the story of Clara and her Nutcracker Prince. Audience members will enjoy the familiar sites of the enchanted Land of Snow, and dances by the Sugar Plum Fairy and Cavalier in the Kingdom of Sweets. This year's production will also feature two professional dancers from Ballet Arizona, including Arianni Martin, who will portray the Sugar Plum Fairy, and Nayon Rangel as the Cavalier.

The opening show will be held on Saturday (Dec. 13) at 7:30 p.m. A matinee performance will be held on Sunday (Dec. 14) at 2:30 p.m.

Admission is $25 for adults and $15 for children or students, with ID. For more information 785-0152.

Fort Smith Public Library Open House
The Fort Smith Public Library will host its 12th annual Holiday Open House on Dec. 14. Held at the Main Library on Rogers Avenue, the event will include  music, crafts, games, stories, refreshments, and other fun for visitors of all ages.

Musical performances will take place throughout the afternoon, including sets by the St. Boniface Rhythm Band, St. Boniface Christmas Spirit Squad, Marian Laird, Developmental Wings Hand Bell Choir, Riverblenders Barbershop Choir, and Bill and Nancy Carpenter.

Guests will be treated to light refreshments while browsing the Christmas displays throughout the building. Children will enjoy special story times, craft making, games, and other activities, as well.

The Open House will be held from 1 to 5 p.m. Admission is free, with guests encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item for the holiday food drive. For more information, call 783-0229.

Academy of the Arts Children's Choir Christmas Concert
Kids and carols will be at the heart of the Academy of the Arts Children's Choir Christmas Concert on Dec. 18.

Presented by the University of Arkansas at Fort Smith, the "Christmas Follies" event will feature the voices of 150 elementary-age students as they join in song.  The concert will include a mix of traditional tunes, carols, and popular contemporary songs. Visitors will also enjoy a visit from Santa Claus.

The choral event will be held at UAFS's Breedlove Auditorium beginning at 7 p.m. Admission is first come, first serve. For more information, call 788-7300.

An Olde Fashioned Christmas
Holiday lovers looking to reminisce will enjoy "An Olde Fashioned Christmas" on Dec. 20.

Held at the historic King Opera House in downtown Van Buren, the event will feature special performances by Jennifer Ford, Missy Beauchaine, Penny Short, members of the Lifesong Dance Studio, and other youth talent acts. Visitors will also be treated to candy canes and a visit from Santa Claus.

The show will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Admission is $15 for adults and $10 for ages 12 and under. A $5 discount will be given to guests who bring a new unwrapped toy. All proceeds will benefit the Marine Corp League Toys For Tots drive.

For more information, call 461-0126.

Pedal for Presents
Mountain bike enthusiasts and trail runners will have the chance to support the Fort Smith Salvation Army at the first ever Pedal For Presents Poker Run on Dec. 21.

Hosted at Springhill Park, the event will be open to cyclists and runners, with gift certificates from area restaurants awarded to participants with the best poker hand.  A bonfire complete with free dogs and drinks will be held following the race. Pedal for Presents will held from 3 to 6 p.m.

Entry fee is one wrapped gift or a monetary donation to the Salvation Army. Springhill Park is located at 1700 Lock and Dam Road in Barling.