Worcester Magazine's 2017 Holiday Handbook

Holiday Handbook

2017

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Holiday Hits for Everyone on Your List

featuring a full-size live orchestra and Ashley Ellis and Yuri Yanowsky, principal dancers of Boston Ballet

The Nutcracker • Nov 24-26 Presenting sponsor Commerce Bank • Production sponsor Price Chopper

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A Christmas Carol • Dec 15-23

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WM-Holiday handbook_2017.indd 1

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10/30/2017 4:13:30 PM

Kirk A. Davis President Kathleen Real-Benoit Publisher x331 Walter Bird Jr. Editor x322 Elizabeth Brooks x323 Photographer Joshua Lyford x325 Reporter Bill Shaner x324 Reporter Sarah Connell, Janice Harvey, Jim Keogh, Jim Perry, Jessica Picard, Corlyn Vooorhees, Contributing Writers Marissa Callender, Alexa Currier, Alex Polinksi Editorial Interns Donald Cloutier Director of Creative Services x141 Kimberly Vasseur Creative Director/Assistant Director of Creative Services x142 Becky Gill, Stephanie Mallard, Colleen Mulligan, David Rand, Wendy Watkins Creative Services Department Helen Linnehan Ad Director x333 Diane Galipeau x335, Sarah Perez x334, Cheryl Robinson x336, Media Consultants Kathryn Connolly Media Coordinator x332 Michelle Purdie Classified Sales Specialist x433

Table of Contents The rationale behind shopping local...................................... 6 Fighting words: What not to talk about at family gatherings...................... 9 Holiday Performances.......................................................... 12 Keeping the kids busy at holiday get-togethers.................. 15 Craft Fairs & Festivals........................................................... 17 Crowd-Pleasing Holiday Potluck Ideas................................. 22 Making the Perfect Holiday Drink........................................ 24 Advertiser Index................................................................... 30

Worcester Magazine is an independent news weekly covering Central Massachusetts. We accept no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts. The Publisher has the right to refuse any advertisement.

LEGALS/PUBLIC NOTICES: Please call 978.728.4302, email sales@centralmassclass.com, or mail to Central Mass Classifieds, P.O. Box 546, Holden, MA 01520

DISTRIBUTION: Worcester Magazine is available free of charge at more than 400 locations, limited to one copy per reader.

Additional copies may be purchased for $1 each at Worcester Magazine offices. Unauthorized bulk removal of Worcester Magazine from any public location, or any other tampering with Worcester Magazine’s distribution including unauthorized inserts, is a criminal offense and may be prosecuted under the law.

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Send orders and subscription correspondence to Holden Landmark Corporation, 22 West St., Suite 31, Millbury, MA 01527.

ADVERTISING: To place an order for display advertising or to inquire, please call 508.749.3166. Worcester Magazine (ISSN 0191-4960) is a weekly publication of The Holden Landmark Corporation. All contents copyright 2017 by The Holden Landmark Corporation. All rights reserved.

Worcester Magazine is not liable for typographical errors in advertisements.

EDITORIAL: 508.749.3166 SALES: 508.749.3166 E-MAIL: editor@worcestermagazine.com Worcester Magazine 72 Shrewsbury St. Worcester, MA 01604 worcestermagazine.com

On the cover: Cranberry Moscow Mule Photo by Elizabeth Brooks Design by Kimberly Vasseur

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ELIZABETH BROOKS

The rationale behind shopping local

Walter Bird Jr.

Joe Demers, owner of Joe’s Album’s on Main Street, Worcester

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ALEX POLINSKY

ou can find arguments on both sides. Buying local makes sense, some say. Money spent local stays local, they insist.

Then there’s the flip side. A buy-localonly mentality leads to decreased options for the consumer, some critics contend. If you buy local, it has been argued, you may be spending more, and thus have less to spend locally.

It is, the analysts say, a complicated issue. But the “buy local” movement has gained steam and as we head into the holidays, customers will be shopping.

Obviously, in and around Worcester, retailers and others would like you to spend with them. If you do, according to some studies, you’ll be supporting the local economy much more so than if you go bargain hunting at a Walmart or shop online at Amazon.

Statistically, according to a Civics Economics Study in Grand Rapids, Mich., if you spend $100 at a local business, roughly $68 stays in your local economy. The same amount spent at so-called big box stores results in just $43 going to the same place.

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It also may help feed your charitable side. According to the Seattle Good Business Network, small businesses donate 250 percent more than larger businesses to nonprofits and community causes.

There are other benefits as well. Joe Demers, for example, believes small businesses foster a community feel.

He runs Joe’s Albums on Main Street in Worcester, a location he moved to in September 2016. He has been in business seven years.

“The big ones are experience and interaction,” Demers said of the importance of shopping local.

“Especially in something like records.

You come in, people say, ‘Gee, I like this group and kind of want something similar to it.’ You get a more custom customer experience when you’re local.

You become kind of friends at times.

“I have an intern who actually said that earlier: ‘You have a lot of people who are friends, who like to come in and hang out for a while.’ That’s an important thing that I think we’re getting further away from.”

The other thing, Demers said, is

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when you shop local, when you need something right away or want it, it’s nice to have that ability to go pick it up and not wait for it to ship and arrive on your doorstep.

“If you don’t shop local,” he said, “everything disappears. Your only option will be to shop online. I don’t think anyone wants that. I don’t think they realize, every time they order online and it isn’t spent locally, that’s one step closer to a small business going out of business.”

Keeping money local is one reason to encourage a “buy local” mentality, according to Christina Andreoli, president of Discover Central Mass.

“It also helps to support entrepreneurs to kind of build their business in their hometown community,” she said. “It gives us an opportunity to help support them in that regard.”

Worcester has seen an uptick in small businesses recently, Andreoli said.

“It definitely appears that way,” she said. “That a lot more one-of-a-kind type retailers have decided to locate here.”

She cited Table Talk Pies’ retail store

on Green Street as an example.

“It shows the local marketplace is important,” Andreoli said.

The upcoming Black Friday (Nov. 24) and Small Business Saturday (Nov. 25) will offer shoppers a chance to visit local stores throughout Central Mass.

Check your local stores for any specials and hours of operation, and keep an eye out for Worcester Magazine’s Nov. 22 edition, which will include ideas for your Small Business Saturday shopping!

Walter Bird Jr. is editor of Worcester Magazine. Share story tips and comments at 508-749-3166, ext. 322, or by email at wbird@worcestermag. com. Follow Walter on Twitter @ walterbirdjr and on Facebook. Don’t miss Walter every week on WCCA TV 194 as a panelist on Rosen’s Roundtable.

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Fighting words: What not to talk about at family gatherings

Walter Bird Jr.

W

e’ve all been there. That holiday dinner when family you haven’t seen for years shows up to the home of whoever bravely volunteered to host that year. The food is great, catching up is fun. Then comes the real talk, when you start honing in on conversation of substance. And all hell breaks loose. Or does it?

What conversations should be avoided at all costs when the fam is gathered for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner? Here are some potentially prickly topics you may want to avoid, unless you either A) know it won’t start a fight or B) want to start a fight. I’ve

also included advice from some of us at Worcester Magazine and the Holden Landmark Corp., seasoned bickerers that we are.

Dating status can be a touchy subject, particularly if the guy or gal you brought with you the year before has long since been cast aside. “Whatever happened to [fill in the name]?” could lead to an uncomfortable conversation. “Oh, really? I really liked her!” “That guy was a real jerk, anyway.”

Although it seems rather innocuous at first blush, career talk could cause a divide. If you pull up in a Mercedes and walk in wearing the latest in high heel fashion, your relatives will figure out you’re obviously doing well. And

you may get jabs. Or, on the opposite end, if you are working as a waitress, even if you love it and it serves you well, the uncle you haven’t seen in over a year may say, “Hey, remember when you were working at that dive as a waitress? What are you doing now?”

“I’m working at that dive as a waitress, Uncle Al.” Yikes.

Politics or religion. It almost doesn’t need any explanation, but it’s safe to say, if you have a dozen or more family members gathered for the holidays, there are probably two dozen or more political or religious POVs on-hand.

I’ll go even further and say, don’t even bother mentioning Trump. The diehards will start bloviating and the critics may well walk out. It can get that

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nasty. And religion? Fuggedaboutit.

That almost never goes in a positive direction. It is also wise to consider the generation gaps in your family. If you start talking about being an atheist with your Irish-Catholic grandmother, well, it’s easy to see where that talk may be headed.

I’ve seen other suggestions of what not to talk about, like your own personal interests, but jeez, if we eliminate all of the above, what the hell left is there to talk about if not your own personal interests? I mean, if they include skinning cats as a hobby, maybe you should avoid that. So maybe you’ll spark some opposition if you say, “Hey, did anyone catch that show the other night?” “How can you watch that crap?” Or you could just shove another appetizer in your mouth.

Here is what some of our staff makes sure doesn’t come up at family holiday gatherings: Barbara Brown, general manager Community News Publishing, The Holden Landmark Corp: “Don’t talk politics. With millennial kids, you just stay away from it.”

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Josh Lyford, reporter, Worcester Magazine: “Politics, but my old man just can’t help but goad me.”

Helen Linnehan, advertising director, Worcester Magazine: “Someone who is not there. A brother or sister’s spouse. A child’s behavior, as in brat. Politics. There are Democrats and Republicans in my family. A few are very involved politically.”

Walter Bird Jr., editor, Worcester Magazine: “Politics always seems to lead to an argument in my family, probably because I’m always right. OK, maybe not. At holidays, I’m usually too busy eating, or taking a nap afterward, to engage in any serious conversation.

But politics and religion never seem to go over well. I tend to stick with my only really distinguishable talent outside of the newsroom: reciting quotes from movies.”

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Holiday Performances

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A CHRISTMAS STORY, THE MUSICAL Hanover Theatre, 2 Southbridge St., Worcester Thursday-Sunday, Nov. 9, 7:30 p.m.; Nov. 10, 8 p.m.; Nov. 11, 2 and 8 p.m.; Nov. 12, 1 and 6:30 p.m. thehanovertheatre.org This delightful musical follows Ralphie Parker through his hilarious journey to get the Christmas gift that he wants.

Ralphie schemes for the perfect gift, causing mayhem and mischief in this classic musical fit for the whole family.

Tickets range from $40-$75.

THE NUTCRACKER Hanover Theatre, 2 Southbridge St., Worcester Friday-Sunday, Nov. 24, 7 p.m.; Nov. 25, 2 and 7 p.m., Nov. 26, 1 and 5 p.m. thehanovertheatre.org The Nutcracker is Tchaikovsky’s classic Christmas ballet. It follows a young girl named Clara who receives a nutcracker doll as a Christmas gift and then enters a magical world where the nutcracker and other characters come to life.

Tickets are $28-$40.

TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA WINTER TOUR 2017 DCU Center, 50 Foster St., Worcester Friday, Nov. 24, 3 and 8 p.m.

Don’t miss the TSO’s “The Ghosts of Christmas Eve,” in two special performances during its only Massachusetts tour stop. Tickets range from $45.50-$85.50. Buy at ticketmaster.com.

ALL THAT (HOLIDAY) JAZZ! WITH WPI BIG BAND AND HOOK ORGAN Mechanics Hall, 321 Main St., Worcester Wednesday, Nov. 29, 12 p.m. mechanicshall.org The WPI Big Band, directed by Rich Falco, is joined by organ players for a smooth, jazzy ride into the holiday season. Admission is free.

CHRISTMAS DINNER AND CONCERT Old Sturbridge Village, 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road, Sturbridge Friday, Dec. 1, 6 p.m.

Old Sturbridge Village hosts an elegant dinner along with a classical music concert featuring the Worcester Chamber Society, a mixed classical chamber ensemble. Tickets are $35-$75.

HANDEL’S MESSIAH Mechanics Hall, 321 Main St., Worcester Saturday, Dec. 2, 8 p.m.

Under the direction of Chris Shepard, The Worcester Chorus of Music Worcester will return to historic Mechanics Hall to continue its great holiday tradition: a complete

performance of Handel’s greatest choral work, The Messiah. Apart from The Worcester Chorus, this performance will feature a full orchestra, acclaimed vocal soloists, and The Festival Singers: a group of Worcester-area vocal students coached by members of The Worcester Chorus leading up to the performance.

Tickets are $49 for adults, $17.50 for students, $7.50 for youth.

HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR 2017 The Hanover Theatre, 2 Southbridge St., Worcester Saturday, Dec. 2, 6 p.m. thehanovertheatre.org Diane Kelley and her performers sing and dance with Worcester County singers, dancers and actors of all ages.

Sure to become a family tradition, Holiday Spectacular has dancing snowmen, prancing reindeer, and singing elves! Tickets are $26-$32.

CHRISTMAS MEMORIES Salem Cross Inn, 260 West Main St., West Brookfield Saturday, Dec. 2, 2:15 p.m.; Sunday, Dec. 3, 12:15 and 3:45 p.m.; Saturday, Dec. 9, 2:15 p.m.; Sunday, Dec. 10,

Music of the Season!

DICKENS WEEKEND: A CHRISTMAS CAROL (AND MORE) WITH GERALD CHARLES DICKENS Vaillancourt Folk Art, 9 Main St., Sutton Saturday-Sunday Nov. 25-26 Charles Dickens’ masterpiece, “A Christmas Carol,” has thousands of versions, but only one of those many versions stars Gerald Charles Dickens himself, the great-great-grandson of the famous playwright. This one-man show features Mr. Dickens adopting different voices, expressions and mannerisms to portray all 26 characters of the acclaimed show. On Sunday is another performance by Gerald that follows Charles Dickens in 1868 as he meets a young girl on a train. After the performance, Gerald talks about his own journey and participate in a Q&A. Tickets are $20-$30.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2:00P.M. “Young at Heart,” Worcester Men of Song Annual Barbershop Harmony Concert

MONDAY, DECEMBER 11, 6:00P.M. Mechanics Hall presents Hops & Harmony!

Guest artist, Blue Light Bandits

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, NOON Brown Bag Concert: Sivan Arbel, Free Admission

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 16, 6:00P.M. A Legendary Evening with Tedy Bruschi, benefit for T&G Santa Fund

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, NOON Brown Bag Concert: All That (Holiday) Jazz! with WPI Big Band & Hook Organ, Free Admission SATURDAY, DECEMBER 2, 8:00P.M. The Worcester Chorus continues its 100+ year holiday tradition with a performance of Handel’s Messiah with orchestra. Presented by Music Worcester WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 6, NOON Brown Bag Concert: NEC Symphonic Winds & Chamber Singers with U.S. Navy Band Northeast, Free Admission

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 17, 4:00P.M. Worcester Youth Orchestras Annual Family Holiday Concert TUESDAY, DECEMBER 19, 7:00P.M. Winter Wonderland Gala! presented by Women of Worcester Productions FRIDAY, DECEMBER 29, 6:30P.M. Mechanics Hall Cinema presents “Little Women”

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 7, 8:00P.M. ‘XLO’s Acoustic Xmas’ starring Goo Goo Dolls with special guests The Rua and more!

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 9, 8:00P.M. Massachusetts Symphony Orchestra Holiday Pops Concert SUNDAY, DECEMBER 10, 1:00P.M. & 5:00P.M. The Nutcracker Ballet performed by Dance Prism

MECHANICS HALL WORCESTER, MA 1857 - 2017

Tickets & Information: Mechanics Hall Box Office 508-752-0888; www.mechanicshall.org

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12:15 and 3:45 p.m.; Saturday, Dec. 16, 12 and 3:30 p.m.

“Christmas Memories” features a play based on Dylan Thomas’ “A Child’s Christmas in Wales.” Christmas Memories also features the Cornely Productions performers, who dress in 19th-century costumes and sing over 20 carols. Christmas Memories starts with a classic New England turkey dinner and becomes a sing-a-long. This dinner is a joy for the whole family.

Tickets are $25 for children ages 10 and under, $57 for adults.

Worcester Friday, Dec. 8, 8 p.m.

The Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra and Conductor Keith Lockhart reunite for their beloved Holiday Pops concert.

They will perform “Sleigh Ride,” as well as other holiday classics and new arrangements of seasonal favorites.

Santa Claus himself will make a guest appearance during the concert’s finale, followed by the traditional Boston Pops Holiday sing-a-long. Tickets are $59$129.

WXLO’S ACOUSTIC XMAS Mechanics Hall, 321 Main St., Worcester Thursday, Dec. 7, 8 p.m.

WXLO’s Acoustic Christmas event stars the Goo Goo Dolls this year in an intimate acoustic event. They are bringing holiday cheer, along with special guest “The Rua,” a pop-rock band from England. Tickets are $45 to $65.

10TH ANNIVERSARY PRODUCTION OF A CHRISTMAS CAROL Hanover Theatre, 2 Southbridge St., Worcester Friday, Dec. 15, 7 p.m.; Saturday, Dec. 16, 2 and 7 p.m.; Sunday, Dec. 17, 4 p.m.; Wednesday, Dec. 20, 7 p.m.; Friday, Dec. 22, 7 p.m.; Saturday, Dec. 23, 2 and 7 p.m.

Hanover Theatre puts on New England’s largest production of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol.” “A Christmas Carol” is a classic story, but Hanover Theatre refines it every year with more magic and updated effects and stunts.

BOSTON POPS 2017 HOLIDAY POPS TOUR Hanover Theatre, 2 Southbridge St.,

The tale of the curmudgeonly Ebenezer Scrooge is brought to life onstage as Scrooge is visited by the ghosts of Christmases Past, Present and Future.

This brilliant musical follows Scrooge as he discovers the true spirit of the holiday season.

WGBH PRESENTS A CHRISTMAS CELTIC SOJOURN WITH BRIAN O’DONOVAN Hanover Theatre, 2 Southbridge St., Worcester Monday, Dec. 18, 7:30 p.m.

Brian O’Donovan’s “A Celtic Sojourn” has been a hit with radio audiences since 1986. For 15 years, the live version of the Christmas-time show has delighted audiences by drawing on Celtic, Pagan, and Christian holiday traditions. Tickets are $45-$59.

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Keeping the kids busy at holiday get-togethers Walter Bird Jr.

S

o your going to your brother’s house for holiday dinner. Or you have relatives coming over to your place. The adults will talk and eat – and talk some more.

What about the kids? If you have ever hosted or gone to a holiday dinner where there are children, you know how quickly they can become bored,

and how distracting it can be for the parent.

Here are some fun ways to keep the kids entertained and the adults from losing their minds.

KIDS-ONLY ROOM: Pick out a room that is off-limits to the adults. Kidproof as needed and put some kidfriendly crafts and games in there.

Have them make a sign that says “Kids

At Play: Keep Out!” Of course, you may want to check on them from time to time.

LET ’EM BAKE: This requires some adult supervision, of course, but kids love to create things – and they love to eat. Have them make a dessert while everyone else eats. Make it something fun and creative, like cupcakes with

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D

ance

The

P

KEEPING THE KIDS BUSY continued from page 15

rism— A magical professional performance!

Nutcracker

35 th Season —Share the joy!

Mechanics Hall Dec 10 only 1:00 & 5:00 Also Fall River Nov 26, Sudbury Dec 3, Littleton Dec 9, Andover Dec 16 & 17

Meet Clara & the Nutcracker Prince after perfs!

Rsvd: $20 Ch, Stu, Sr; $26 Ad • Group Rates | Special Programs for Youth Groups

508-752-0888 | All groups: danceprisminformation@gmail.com or 978-371-1038

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ENJOY THE HOLIDAY SEASON AT HEIFER FARM Celebrate the holidays at Heifer Farm with all of the animals that are changing lives around the world. Meet the cows, pigs, sheep, llamas, rabbits, chickens and other barnyard animals at our Living Gift Market. Children can meet with Santa and talk about the importance of giving.

You can also take a memorable holiday photo with a goat, enjoy a scenic hayride, warm up with homemade soup, hot cocoa and cider, roast chestnuts, decorate gingerbread cookies, make international crafts and shop at the Donation Station, Fair Trade gift shop, winter farm stand and bake sale.

HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE December 2, 3, 9 & 10, 2017 10:00 am - 4:00 pm Admission is free with a canned good donation!

Visit the Farm Gift Shop and Farm Café Open Daily 9-5

sprinkles or sundaes with different toppings.

DINNER IS SERVED: Tired of yelling at your husband or boyfriend to set out the right dishes? Have the kids set the table and serve dinner. They could dress up, if they’d like, and you could put name tags in front of each person at the table (Here’s an idea: Give them a bribe, like a small toy).

MOVIE TIME: OK, so in today’s world we’re trying to get our kids away from the TV. But on a night when you have the adults all together, some drinks flowing and a little mature conversation, set up a room like a movie theater and have the kids pick a couple films for a double feature.

Popcorn and juice are a must, of course.

PLAY TIME: Don’t want to go the movie route? How about a little preplanning and having the kids put on a production of their choosing – either for themselves or the adults? You can make up some costumes, write a script and let the kids do their thing.

THEY LOVE IT LOUD: That’s a little KISS reference for the older audience.

What do kids like besides — or in addition to — playing? Making noise, of course. Provide a space where volume isn’t a problem. Maybe set up a karaoke machine. The key point: Let them be loud. And let them play. It will pay off later when it’s time for bed.

SCAVENGER HUNT: Heck, the adults may want to get in on this one. Make up a list of things for the kids to find, spit them into teams, then send them on their way. You can limit it to a section of the house, or depending on the weather and time of day, maybe do it outside in the back yard. Kids are natural explorers – and you could hand out prizes to the team that finds the most items on the list.

(Some of these ideas were inspired or generated by parenting.com)

HEIFER FARM

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FILE PHOTO/STEVEN KING

Craft Fairs and Festivals

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crafts and so much more.

CRAFT FAIRS continued from page 17

SHEPHERD HILL’S FESTIVAL OF CRAFTS 68 Dudley Oxford Road, Dudley Saturday, Nov. 19, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Enjoy a fun and friendly atmosphere and over 150 craft booths. Admission is $5, 1$ off admission coupon in papers.

FRIENDS OF THE CONANT PUBLIC LIBRARY ARTS & CRAFTS SHOW First Church in Sterling, 6 Meetinghouse Hill Road, Sterling Saturday, Nov. 18, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

There will be 26 crafters exhibiting photographs, jewelry, knitted and crocheted items, children’s clothing and more. There will also be a café providing lunch and dessert items.

OUR LADY OF THE VALLEY 35TH ANNUAL HOLIDAY FAIR 75 Mendon St., Uxbridge Saturday, Nov. 18, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Kick off the holiday season with a day full of family, friends and fun.

The event includes Santa Claus, a live auction, vendor craft fair, wreaths, baked goods, kids activities, games,

HOLIDAY FESTIVAL OF CRAFTS 25 Sagamore Road, Worcester Friday–Sunday, Nov. 24–26, (Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.)

Every year the Worcester Center for Crafts transforms into a European-style holiday marketplace, complete with twinkly lights and the sweet smell of evergreens. The event brings together 60 craft artists for a unique holiday shopping opportunity. Includes free parking and an on-site café. $5 admission.

COUNTRY FOLK ART CRAFT SHOW Sturbridge Host Hotel and Conference Center, 366 Main St., Sturbridge Friday–Sunday, Nov. 24-26 (Friday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.)

HOUGHTON HOLIDAY FAIR 32 Boutelle Road, Houghton Elementary School, Sterling Saturday, Dec. 9, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

A festival for family and kids, including

We host functions for life’s memorable moments

fine art, fine crafts, concession, raffle, pictures with Santa and kid’s crafts.

FESTIVAL OF GIVING TREES St. John Paul II Parish, 446 Main St., Southbridge and La Salle Reception Center, 444 Main St. Southbridge Thursday-Sunday, Nov. 30-Dec. 3 (Thursday, opening day premiere tree viewing, noon to 4 p.m., La Salle; Thursday, choral premiere, 7-9 p.m., St. John Paul II Parish; Friday, tree viewing and senior citizens day, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., La Salle; Friday, “Friday Night Lights,” 6:30-11 p.m., La Salle; Saturday, children’s day, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, final day, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.)

This annual, four-day family event is a holiday activity and fundraiser that raises money to support the battle against breast cancer and helps fund cancer research. The event features more than 100 uniquely decorated trees that, in the end, will be taken home by lucky raffle winners. The proceeds go to the Silent Spring Institute, The Massachusetts Breast Cancer Coalition and The Cancer Center at Harrington continued on page 20

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PHOTO SUBMITTED

CRAFT FAIRS continued from page 18

Hospital. For more information, visit sparklingtrees.com.

HEIFER FARM HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE Heifer Farm, 216 Wachusett St., Rutland Saturday-Sunday, Dec. 2-3 Celebrate the holidays at Heifer Farm with all of the animals that are changing lives around the world. Meet the cows, pigs, sheep, llamas, rabbits, chickens and other barnyard animals at our Living Gift Market.

Children can meet with Santa and talk about the importance of giving. You can also take a memorable holiday photo with a goat, enjoy a scenic hayride, warm up with homemade soup, hot cocoa and cider, roast chestnuts, decorate gingerbread cookies, make international crafts and shop at the Donation Station, Fair Trade gift shop, winter farmstand and bake sale. For more information, visit heifer.org.

SUTTON CHAIN OF LIGHTS Saturday, Dec. 2, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Various shops and locations The annual Sutton Chain of Lights returns, a day-long celebration featuring family fun, shopping and more. Sutton shops, churches, farms, art galleries, schools and the

Regan, McKenna and Becky visit with Santa at Sleighbell Farms during last year’s Sutton Chain of Lights.

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Holiday Handbook

PRODUCT ADVERTORIALS

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Massachusetts Charms Hand stamped and carved Massachusetts charms with a heart over the Commonwealth. Available on necklaces and keychains.

KERRY GLASS is a beautiful collection of handmade glass created in County Kerry, Ireland.

Each piece is hand molded and many of the pieces are blown. No two pieces are identical, each is unique to itself.

Kerry Glass draws inspiration from the blue lakes, green pastures, and rolling mountains of Ireland. Candlesticks, various bowls and vases make up this artistic range.

Many have a shamrock stamped on the bottom.

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historical society will open their doors with locally-made products, food and entertainment. The event concludes at night with the lighting of Christmas trees and caroling on the town common. Vaillancourt Folk Art, 9 Main St., Sutton, will feature Rebekah, Sir Harry and Good News Gus singing in Braxton Hall at 11 a.m., noon, 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. Trolleys will be available from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., in 30-minute intervals. For more information on the festival, visit chainoflights.com. For more information on Vaillancourt Folk Art, visit valfa.com.

ST. CHRISTOPHER CHURCH CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL 950 West Boylston St., Worcester Saturday, Dec. 2, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

This Christmas Festival features raffles and activities for kids, as well as crafts, jewelry, a flea market, bake sale and more! Bring a “Toys for Tots” donation and enter to win a prize.

Lunch will be available. Admission is free. For more information, call 508853-1492.

19 Glennie St., Worcester 508-791-2211 sharfmansjewelers.com

stART AT THE STATION Union Station, 2 Washington Square, Worcester Sunday, Dec. 3, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The 12th annual stART at the Station brings the gifting themed arts and crafts festival to Worcester’s Union Station. The work of 100 artists and crafters are displayed in the Grand Hall and the wares of 35 artists and crafters will be sold in the Concourse.

Wares include textiles, pottery, stained glass, fine jewelry, photography, pet wares, holiday cards, ornaments and more. Union Station’s restaurants will offer a full bar and light menu during the event and Luciano’s Cotton Club inside the Grand Hall will host a football lounge, so shoppers will not have to fear missing the game.

Admission is 15$, free after 11 a.m.

WHITE CHRISTMAS IN WEST BROOKFIELD West Brookfield Sunday, Dec. 3, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The 25th annual White Christmas in West Brookfield. Local shops, organizations and others will offer fun during the day. At night, the common lights up with the lighting of the Christmas tree.

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Crowd-Pleasing Holiday Potluck Ideas (StatePoint)

I

ndulging in delicious food is one of the best parts of the holidays, and you’ll likely be in constant need of something tasty to take along to all those holiday potlucks.

To be ready for any invitation, keep ingredients for your favorite recipes on-hand and use multipurpose kitchen tools, like a high-performance blender, to expedite prep time, quickly chop veggies or cheese, and blend everything from dips and batters to dressings and sauces.

Not sure what to make for your next potluck? Here are some simple, crowdpleasing recipes.

veggies and protein (whatever you have on hand) will work. Bake or slow cook the frittata the night before and add a quick sprinkle of herbs or chives before packing it to go.

DESSERTS If you have a sweet tooth, it only makes sense to volunteer to bring your favorite dessert. Save time by using a high-performance blender like the

APPETIZERS Small-bite hors d’oeuvres are perfect potluck fare. Dips or spreads served with veggies and chips are quick to make and travel easily. Try a cashew French onion dip for a non-dairy version of the traditional favorite. Be sure to soak the cashews ahead of time to achieve a super-smooth texture. If you’re able to keep food warm, a hearty spinach artichoke dip with pita bread will satisfy guests’ cravings for comfort foods. Or, take a new twist on a conventional recipe with a cauliflower hummus. It’s extra creamy and has an added boost of veggies from the addition of roasted cauliflower.

SIDE DISHES Casseroles will feed a crowd and most can be served at room temperature. Made with russet potatoes and onions, a cheesy potato casserole with corn-flake topping won’t last long at any gathering. It’s a satisfying substitute for traditional hash browns at brunch, and is great for all ages.

Alternately, a vegetarian butternut squash casserole is a light, sweet complement to heavier potluck fare.

Or, if you’re short on ingredients or inspiration, a frittata filled with cheese,

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Holiday Handbook

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STATEPOINT.NET

Vitamix A2300 Ascent Series blender to mix batter in advance for a big batch of almond cookies or snickerdoodles. If baking for a cookie exchange or large gathering, start early and freeze the cookies until party day. Cakes, pumpkin and apple pies are also easy to make ahead and freeze. Simply wrap a freshly baked, cooled cake or pie in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. Before an event, defrost in the bag at room temperature.

If your dish has multiple components, separate warm and cold items during transport and use insulated carriers to maintain optimal temperatures. Make something that doesn’t require a ton of prep time and equipment once you arrive, unless you’ve asked the host in advance. Bring trivets or serving utensils, if needed, and don’t assume the host will have extras.

Don’t get caught unprepared this holiday party season. The right ingredients and tools will make you a hit at any potluck, even at a moment’s notice.

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ELIZABETH BROOKS

Making the perfect holiday drink

Alexa Currier

T

he most wonderful time of the year has come upon us. While celebrating with family and friends, a simple and easy-to-make drink is a must. Whether you are sitting beside the fire, snuggled up with a blanket and family, or enjoying a feast together at the table, here are a few DIY drinks to try this holiday season. Some, we found online. For others, we tapped some local drink specialists (your local bartenders) for their personal favorites. continued on page 26

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3:00 to 8:00 pm New England Holiday Traditions Sleigh Rides Decorated Historic Village Festive Foods Musical Performances Quilt Exhibition Gingerbread Contest

North Pole Village returns this year where families will find Santa and his elves, Mrs. Claus’ Bake Shop, a magical talking Christmas tree, a kids holiday craft workshop, and a new train display.

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ELIZABETH BROOKS

CRANBERRY MOSCOW MULE (From Brew City, 104 Shrewsbury St., Worcester) Ingredients: Tito’s Vodka Cranberry juice Lime juice Ginger beer 1. Fill copper mug with ice.

2. Combine liquid ingredients in mug and stir.

3. Garnish with whole cranberries.

HOLIDAY SANGRIA Ingredients: Two bottles Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay, 3/4 cup sparkling apple cider 1/4 cup sugar 1/4 cup halved cranberries 3/4 cup whole cranberries 1 chopped Granny Smith apple 3 rosemary springs.

1. Combine all ingredients in a large pitcher.

Stir until sugar is dissolved.

2. Refrigerate for a few hours before serving.

3. Serve chilled, or over ice.

PEPPERMINT PATTY (From Brew City) Ingredients: Hot chocolate

continued on page 28

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Holiday Handbook

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Dr. McGillicuddy’s Mentholmint Schnapps 1. Combine 1 part schnapps and 4 parts hot chocolate in a mug; stir.

2. Garnish with whipped cream and a candy cane. Serve hot.

RASPBERRY WHITE CHOCOLATE (From Brew City) Ingredients: Coffee Godiva White Chocolate Liqueur Razzmatazz 1. Pour the white chocolate liqueur into a glass, followed by the coffee, then the Razzmatazz.

2. Combine mixture, top with whipped cream.

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Holiday Handbook

EGGNOG (SPIKED) Ingredients: Eight separated eggs 1/3 cup sugar 1/2 teaspoon salt 4 cups whole milk 2 cups heavy whipping cream 1 tsp freshly grated nutmeg 1 tsp vanilla extract 1 cup bourbon 1/2 cup amaretto 1. Whisk egg yolks, sugar, and salt until mxture is smooth and light in color.

2. Add whole milk, whipping cream, nutmeg, vanilla, bourbon and amaretto. Whisk again until smooth.

3. Whip egg whites for about 4 minutes until soft peaks form.

4. Mix the whipped egg whites with the cream mixture until smooth.

5. Chill until ready to serve.

Serve cold.

6. Garnish with grated nutmeg on top.

PECAN PIE MARTINI (Inspired by The Fix restaurant,108 Grove St., Worcester) Ingredients: Maple Cream Liquor Amaretto White Crème de Cacao 1. In a shaker with ice, shake vigorously the combined ingredients. Strain into a martini glass.

2. For decoration, rim the martini glass with mix crushed pecans and brown sugar.

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Advertiser Index Beechwood Hotel - Sonoma........................ 3 Black & White Grille................................... 30 Dance Prism................................................. 16 D’Iorio’s....................................................5, 20 El Basha........................................................ 21 Hanover Theatre............................................ 4 Heifer Farm.................................................. 16 Julio’s Liquors............................................. 31 Leo’s Ristorante........................................... 28 Lock50...........................................................11 Mechanics Hall............................................ 13 Meze............................................................. 28 Museum of Russian Icons............................ 8 Niche Hospitality Group............................... 2

Old Sturbridge Village................................ 25 Olde New England Antiques and Art Center......................................... 23 Sharfmans.................................................... 21 308 Lakeside................................................ 18 Tower Hill Botanic Garden........................ 26 Truth. Organic Spa...................................... 32 Turn 4 HobbyTown..................................... 30 Ultimate Restaurant Deals......................... 27 Volturno....................................................... 14 Wexford House Irish Imports.............. 21, 22 Worcester Railers Hockey........................... 19 Worcester Wares.................................... 10, 20 Wonder Bar.................................................. 10

Casual Family Dining Full Bar Full Pizza Menu Daily Lunch Specials 7 Days a Week Gift Certificates Available • Holiday Catering

Have more fun than ever this Season!

We specialize in the beginner Radio Control Hobbyist!

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Fresh Fried & Baked Seafood Saute Specialties Fresh Prime Rib Every Friday & Saturday 206 N. Spencer Road, Route 31, Spencer 508-885-5018 • blackandwhitegrille.com

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Holiday Handbook

Mon-Wed: 10AM-6PM, Thurs/Fri: 10AM-7PM, Sat: 10AM-6pm, Sun: Noon-6PM

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Limit one coupon per customer per visit. Not valid with any other discount, coupons or on gift card purchases. Present coupon to recieve discount. Prior purchases will not be adjusted.

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Give the gift that always fits!

The gift of peace and relaxation from an award winning organic spa.

Visit our spa for these holiday specials Spend $125 in gift certificates or product and receive a certificate for a 30 minute Swedish massage.

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202 Worcester Street - N. Grafton, Ma - 508-839-6466 Gift Certificates Available Online www.truthorganicspa.com 32

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