Weekend Planner: Santa, Twinkling Lights and the Ballet

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas and this week’s weekend event planner is no exception. We’ve got plenty here to ring in the holidays, plus a selection of non-holiday related events for those who aren’t quite ready for the ring-jing-jingling.

What: Bowie’s annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony

When/Where: 7 p.m. Sunday at Belair Mansion, 12207 Tulip Grove Drive, Bowie, MD

Why go: Family-oriented way to usher in the holiday season with outdoor caroling and the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Cost: Free

What: The National Ballet Company Presents 'The Nutcracker'

When/Where: 2:30 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday and 2:30 p.m. Sunday at the

Reception 6 p.m. Saturday

Why go: All proceeds support the charitable activities of T3 for Haiti, Disaster Aid USA, Breast Cancer Support and Friends of the National Ballet.

Cost: $25 for children, $30 for adults and $40 for the reception.

What:

When/Where: 5 p.m. Saturday at , 301 Watkins Park Drive, Upper Marlboro, MD

Why go: The 25th Annual Winter Festival of Lights runs through Jan. 1, 2012 and features more than a million twinkling lights. Quite the festive event.

Cost: $5 for cars and vans, $15 for mini-buses and limos, $25 for buses and $10 for multi-visit passes for cars and vans.

What:

When/Where: 10 a.m. Saturday at Arundel Mills mall food court

Why go: Kids 4-12 years old can create their own work of gingerbread art. Crafting experts will be on hand to offer tips and pointers, and a prize will be awarded for the "Most Creative Gingerbread Art." Creations will be displayed through Dec. 24 and can be picked up on Dec. 26, if desired. RSVPs are encouraged. Email rtoomey@simon.com or call 410-540-5114.

Cost: $5 for Kidgits members, $10 for the public.

What: Crofton Rotary Club Black and White Gala and Silent Auction

When/Where: 7 p.m. Saturday at , 1166 State Route 3 S, Gambrills, MD

Why go: There will be entertainment, an open bar and a sit down dinner.

Cost: $75

What: Celtic Christmas Concert

When/Where: 4 and 7 p.m. Sunday at Christ Church in West River, 220 Owensville Road, West River, MD

Why go: These concerts feature acclaimed artists Maggie Sansone (hammered dulcimer), Sue Richards (Celtic harp), Paul Oorts (mandolin, cittern, harp guitar, musette accordion), and Pat Egan (guitar and vocals) performing traditional carols, Scots-Irish favorites, Appalachian tunes and a sing-along, followed by refreshments and mulled cider.

Cost: $16

What: The Story of Buddha in Dance

When/Where: 2-3:30 p.m. Sunday at Robert E. Kauffman Theater in the Pascal Center for Performing Arts at Anne Arundel Community College

Why go: Students from the Kalairani Natya Salai dance school will perform the story of Buddha, following his life from childhood to enlightenment.

Cost: General admission is $10, AACC students pay $5

What:

When/Where: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday at 173 Jennifer Road, Annapolis, MD 21401

Why go: Peruse the work of 55 local artists and enjoy live performers all while benefitting the ALS Association.

Cost: Free