Bloglander

That sound you heard Friday was thousands of school children rejoicing the start of Christmas break. You'll need ways to entertain the whole family the next couple weeks, or just get away from the family yourself, so take a virtual stroll through our event listings and Staff Picks to find some excellent entertainment options. 
Here are a few highlights for the week ahead: 

Monday, Dec. 21

WORDS | Drop by Auntie's for a reading of selected goodies from the second Inlander Histories tome, going down at 7 pm. 

Tuesday, Dec. 22

LIVE BANDS | The Big Dipper is hosting a CD release party by Jessika Smith; Tricks of Light is full of big-band arrangements sure to warm your cockles. 

Wednesday, Dec. 23

COMMUNITY | It's getting down to your last few chances to take part in Campbell House Holidays at the historic mansion on the grounds of the MAC. Why not hit it up before Christmas?

LIVE BANDS | Jones Radiator is hosting A Festivus Miracle featuring The Festivus Miracle Band, so I'm guessing feats of strength, airing of grievances and a lot of great tunes from members of The Tourist Union, Sidetrack, and Stella Jones. 

Thursday, Dec. 24

COMMUNITY | Before you start watching A Christmas Story on repeat, maybe take a few and hit Charpentier's Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve at the Cathedral of St. John Evangelist, the beautiful old spot on South Hill. The pre-mass music starts at 9:45 pm

Friday, Dec. 25

STAY HOME | It's Christmas, c'mon! Stay home with friends and family if you can, or hit a bar or movie if you can't. Creed is really good. 

Saturday, Dec. 26

LIVE BANDS | The Observatory is hosting a big night of free excellent local music, including Fun Ladies, The Smokes, the Holy Cow and Jordan Minnesota. 

LIVE BANDS | Get thee to the Fox to check out the Brian Setzer Orchestra doing a whole bunch of big-band, rockabilly and swing versions of holiday tunes new and old. Watch for a story in the next Inlander, and check out a clip of what to expect right here: