Art&Seek Jr: Events To Make Your Spirits Bright

The days are counting down quickly to C-Day. The rapidly approaching date can make some feel a little, well, anxious. There’s so much to do–decorating, shopping, baking and to top it off, we’re supposed to be jolly, because, you know– it’s the happiest time the year.

Don’t let the yuletide chaos get you down. Take a deep breath, relax, and leave those tangled lights in the garage. No one will think less of you if you. I promise. After you’ve freed yourself from all those things that make this time of the year such a chore, grab your kiddos and embrace the spirit of the season with some simple fun. And by simple I mean uncomplicated and memorable.

Here are a few events that will help you do just that.

Photo: Vetro Glass Blowing Studio & Fine Art Gallery

Still looking for the perfect gift for granny? Kids can help create a unique present at Vetro Glassblowing Studio’s Extreme Ornament event. Participants choose colors from a palette, apply the colors to the hot molten glass, and then watch a professional glassblower finish the one-of-a-kind ornament. Families and friends are encouraged to come watch and take photos in the stadium seating area of the studio. One last thing – because your ornament needs to cool down slowly, it won’t be available for pick-up until the following business day after 3 p.m. Reservations are required and slots fill up fast, so don’t wait.

Photo: Dr Pepper Star Center – Farmers Branch

What’s more quintessentially winter than ice skating on a frozen pond? You and the kiddos can practice those figure eights and skate under the stars at the new outdoor rink at Dr Pepper Star Center in Farmers Branch. The rink is open every day except Christmas Eve, Christmas Day & New Year’s Day through Jan. 6. You can rent skates or bring your own.

Photo: NorthPark Center/The Trains of NorthPark

You know you’re going to have to make a trip to the mall, so instead of being harried, slow down and enjoy your time there. If you’re at NorthPark mall take time for these simple holiday pleasures. There are The Trains at NorthPark, back for their 20th anniversary and more special than ever. The miniature display features more than 750 railcars rolling along 1800 feet of track and familiar U.S. landmarks like Times Square, the White House, and even the State Fair of Texas. Catch a show at Santa’s Toy Shoppe Puppet Theatre about how Santa’s gets all those toys to little girls and boys around the world. And don’t miss the Scrooge Puppet Theatre, a tradition going on four decades, where everyone’s favorite Christmas curmudgeon interacts with children from his cottage.

Photo: Frisco Square

Take a walk in a winter wonderland and experience over 175,000 lights and holiday music at Christmas in the Square in Frisco. If you don’t feel like walking you can drive through the square and listen to the music by tuning in to 107.3 FM. Other activities include a Christmas tree maze, visits with Santa, and trackless train rides. Enjoy the holiday lights and music daily 6-10 p.m. through Dec. 31.

Photo: Pinterest/April Cain Photography

Have you been wanting to see ‘The Nutcracker’ but are wondering if the kiddos have it in them to sit through a lengthy ballet? Woodrow Dance Theatre’s production of ‘Nutcracker Short ‘N Sweet’ might be just the ticket. The shortened adaptation of the classic features students from Long Middle School, Woodrow Wilson High School, and guest dancers from feeder elementary schools. Performances happen Thursday and Friday evening, and Saturday morning. To make the ballet even sweeter, the troupe is also presenting a Land of Sweets Breakfast before the Saturday morning performance. You and your little snowflakes can dine with the Sugarplum Fairy, the Nutcracker, and Santa for just $5.