Looking for holiday events? Check them out with other metro-east entertainment options
Noon Thursday, Dec. 5, is the deadline to appear in next week’s What’s Happening. We must receive your event in writing with a contact phone number for questions. Due to the large number of submissions, events may run only one time in print, will be edited and appear in the week before the event date.
Email: lifestyle@bnd.com. Mail to: Lifestyle, Belleville News-Democrat, P.O. Box 427, Belleville, IL 62222-0427. Questions, call Jennifer Green at 618-239-2643.
Holiday Festivities
▪ Polar Express Train Ride — 4:30, 6, 7:15 p.m. daily, and 8:30 p.m. on select dates, through Monday, Dec. 30. St. Louis Union Station, St. Louis. A very special chance for you and the entire family to experience the magic of “The Polar Express,” the classic children’s book by Chris Van Allsburg. The Polar Express comes to life on a journey to the enchanted beauty of “the North Pole” — where Santa Claus and his reindeer are waiting with a keepsake present for every good boy and girl. For tickets and information: stlthepolarexpressride.com
▪ 15th annual Snowflake Festival — 6-8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6. Robert E. Glazebrook Community Park, 1401 Stamper Lane, Godfrey. Family photos with Santa, roasted chestnuts, carriage rides, hot chocolate and cookies. The event is free but in honor of the giving season, toys will be collected for Toys for Tots. godfreyil.org
▪ 9th annual Mascoutah Lighted Christmas Parade — 6:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6. Mascoutah. Parade route begins at Second and Main streets then proceeds east on Main to north on Lebanon Street and then west on Church Street. There will be a tree lighting ceremony and sing-along at Haas Park (across from City Hall). Santa and Mrs. Claus will take up residence in their Mascoutah home located in the city hall parking lot. Entries in the inaugural Gingerbread Contest will be on display at the Mascoutah Visitor’s Center located at 200 E. Main. mascoutahchamber.com
▪ Breakfast with Santa — 9-11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 7. Zion Church, 117 W. White St., Millstadt. Visit with Santa, fun and games, crafts, hot breakfast. Tickets: adults $5, children $10, under 2 free. Tickets are available at the door or call 618-795-1518.
▪ 36th annual Country Christmas Stroll & House Tour — 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7 and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8. Heritage House Museum, 114 W. Walnut St., Okawville. Activities include a handcrafted craft fair, festival of trees, horse-drawn surrey rides. Heritage House Museum homes decorated in their era for Christmas. 618-243-5694.
▪ Tinsel Around Town — 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7. Downtown O’Fallon, 101 W. State St., O’Fallon. The fourth annual Tinsel Around Town downtown shopping event. Visit the Winter Market at O’Fallon Station, then visit the shops in the Downtown District while being serenaded by street musicians and holiday music. Enjoy lunch at any of the downtown restaurants. facebook.com/events/1157976961256965
▪ Winter Market — 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7. O’Fallon Station, 212 E. First St., O’Fallon. A one-day shopping event including baked goods, meats, produce and select artisan items. Includes 23 regular season vendors. facebook.com/events/727472124353213
▪ Pet Pictures with Santa — 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7. Creekwood Animal Hospital, 3818 Pontoon Road, Pontoon Beach. Pictures are $25, packages include one photo card and one print. Cash or check only please. All proceeds benefit Got Your Six PTSD Support Dogs. facebook.com/events/2408653215916623
▪ Happy Holidays with Gateway Classic Cars — 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7. Gateway Classic Cars, 1237 Central Park Drive, O’Fallon. Gateway’s annual holiday party. Bring a toy for the Fire Truck O’ Toys. Food, drinks and entertainment. Free admission with the donation of an unwrapped toy. Family-friendly event. facebook.com/events/2560897723990426
▪ Pére Noël (St. Nicholas) at the Jarrot Mansion — 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7. The Jarrot Mansion State Historic Site, 124 E. First St., Cahokia. Learn the story of St. Nicholas and tour the beautiful Jarrot Mansion. Free tours of the mansion from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The nearby Holy Family Log Church will also be open for tours. 618-332-1782.
▪ Santa’s Chocolate Express — 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7. Downtown Grafton, 100 W. Main St., Grafton. All aboard Santa’s Chocolate Express! Hop on the shuttle and travel down Grafton’s Main Street. Stop in to local shops to sample chocolatey holiday treats and shop the sales. Enjoy the sounds of carolers on the street and meet Santa Claus at The Grove Memorial Park. Tickets are required. Admission: $12 in advance, $15 day of event, $10 for children 12 and under. visitalton.com
▪ An Evening with Santa — 4:30-7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7. O’Fallon Station, 212 E. First St., O’Fallon. Spend the evening with Santa. Watch Santa arrive at the Station on a horse-drawn carriage. Enjoy an evening of hot chocolate, cookie and ornament decorating. Pre-registration required. ofallonstation.com
▪ Christmas at the Collins House and Light Up Parade — 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7. The Collins House, 703 W. Main St., Collinsville. Parade route starts on Main St. at Combs, goes to Center St. to Clay St. and then back to Collins House. Tree lighting ceremony, free hot chocolate and apple cider, free popcorn and cotton candy. Photo booth, crafts and other family-friendly activities. collinsvilleil.org
▪ Millstadt Weihnachtsfest — 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8. St. James Parish Center, 423 W. Madison St., Millstadt. Featuring holiday gifts, handcrafted jewelry, apparel, turned-wood bowls, pottery, decorative items, cookie walk, German food, Santa visit, entertainment and much more. Free admission. facebook.com/events/531993400890365
▪ Christmas at Willoughby Farm — 1-4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8. Willoughby Farm, 631 Willoughby Lane, Collinsville. Santa Photos to the first 200 children. Crafts, cookies and hot cocoa. Farmyard animals and activities all dependent on weather. Carolers and bell ringers and maybe even a few elves. collinsvilleil.org
▪ Bethalto Spirit Christmas Walk — 4-7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8. 213 N. Prairie St., Bethalto. Stroll through the downtown area, returning to a time in history when things moved at a much slower pace. Refreshment booths, carriage rides, costumed characters and more. 618-377-8051.
▪ Holiday Festival — 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8. Pere Marquette Lodge & Conference Center, 13653 Lodge Blvd., Grafton. Sip hot chocolate, gaze at our wondrous Christmas tree, introduce the kids to Santa, enjoy live music, sip locally made wines, and more. Get the chance to cross off that last-minute Christmas shopping with over 30 different vendor booths. Free and open to the public. facebook.com/events/429288377679557
Events
▪ Marine Toys for Tots — Now through Thursday, Dec. 19. Madison County is collaborating with local veteran service organizations and the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves to collect items for those in need this holiday season. Individuals are invited to donate new, unwrapped items at the Madison County Administration Building, 157 N. Main St., Edwardsville, and the Wood River Facility, 101 E. Edwardsville Road, Wood River. Items needed for veterans include socks, underwear, T-shirts, gloves, caps, slippers, throws and basic hygiene. 618-296-4554 or toysfortots.org
▪ Book Sale — 9 a.m. to noon Friday, Dec. 6. Tri-Township Library, 209 S. Main St., Troy. Books, magazines, puzzles, games, DVD and CD donations are accepted during regular library hours or on the day of the sale. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library. 618-667-2133.
▪ Friday at the Movies — 11 a.m. Friday, Dec. 6. Glen Carbon Centennial Library, 198 S. Main, Glen Carbon. A classic Christmas-themed comedy film (1947) starring Don DeFore and Ann Harding. Refreshments. 618-288-1212 or glencarbonlibrary.org
▪ Belleville Angel of Hope Memorial Service — 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6. Bellevue Park, 48 Bier St., Belleville. A candlelight memorial service at the Belleville Angel of Hope Monument for parents who have lost a child of any age, for any reason. Come together to remember and honor our children’s memories. 618-233-1416 or 618-830-7309.
▪ Metro East Model Railroad Club Holiday Open House — 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7. 180 Summit St., Glen Carbon. Visitors are welcome to view the club’s trains running on their 18x27-foot HO scale model railroad. Free admission. 618-476-9228, 618-531-1589 or trainweb.org/memrc
▪ Exhibit Opening: Wallace Herndon Smith: Portraits and Figurative Paintings — Noon to 5 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6. The Sheldon, 3648 Washington Blvd., St. Louis. St. Louis-born painter Wallace Herndon Smith traveled extensively in Europe and the United States, producing landscapes, still-lifes and portraits that have an affinity to the works of Henri Matisse and Edward Hopper. The exhibition is organized by the Sheldon Art Galleries and is drawn from the collection of the Bellwether Foundation and will feature Smith’s portraits and figurative paintings. Exhibit runs through Saturday, Jan. 25. For gallery hours and other information: TheSheldon.org
▪ 5th annual Old Belleville Historical Luminary Walk — 5-9 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7. Abend and Garfield streets, Belleville. The free, family-friendly event features the neighborhood with streets lined with candlelit luminaries. Includes neighborhood museums, a secret passage to the Emma Kunz house, decorated homes open for viewing, carolers singing, seasonal refreshments, and St. Nicholas might be seen. facebook.com/events/3175562935792992
▪ ‘Rocking Around the Christmas Tree’ — 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7. Christ United Church of Christ, 26 N. 14th St., Belleville. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Caroling led by John Nimo followed by James Rainey Trio and the Peyton Sisters. christ-ucc.com
▪ Good Samaritan House Open House — 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8. Good Samaritan House, 1825 Delmar Ave., Granite City. Donations welcome. Open to the public. 618-974-1901 or facebook.com/GoodSamaritanHouseGC
▪ Dance — 2-5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8. Lindendale Park Ballroom, 2005 Parkhill Drive, Highland. Music by the Rendition Band.
▪ Recycled Crafting Night — 6:30-7:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 9. Glen Carbon Centennial Library, 198 S. Main, Glen Carbon. Participants will upcycle old books to make a lovely ornament. 618-288-1212 or glencarbonlibrary.org
▪ Free Sunrise Yoga at the Gateway Arch — 7 a.m. Tuesdays. Gateway Arch Visitor Center, 11 N. Fourth St., St. Louis, located just inside the west entrance of the Arch facility. YogaBuzz instructors lead participants through a 45-minute class to relaxing music. All experience levels are welcome. Yoga is free and open to the public. No RSVP required.
▪ Mississippi Valley Regional Blood Center Blood Drive — 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 10. HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, SLU Conference Room, 3 St. Elizabeth’s Blvd., O’Fallon. bloodcenterimpact.org
▪ Mississippi Valley Regional Blood Center Blood Drive — 2-6 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 10. Father McGivney Catholic High School, 7190 Bouse Road, Glen Carbon. bloodcenterimpact.org
▪ Children’s Christmas Variety Show — 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 11. The Pentecostals of Troy, 8965 Route 162, Troy. 618-667-6054 or pentecostalsoftroy.org
▪ Queen of Hearts Fundraiser — 7 p.m. Wednesdays until the Queen of Hearts is drawn. Silver Creek Saloon, 2520 Mascoutah Ave., Belleville. Includes a 70/30 progressive raffle. Drawing time 7:30 p.m. Benefits Belleville East Lancer Bands.
▪ Mississippi Valley Regional Blood Center Blood Drive — 8-11 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 12. Madison County Administration Building, 157 N. Main St., Edwardsville. bloodcenterimpact.org
Games
▪ Bridge — 11:45 a.m. Thursdays. Collinsville Senior Center, 420 E. Main St., Collinsville. To participate, must have played bridge before. 618-310-1289.
▪ Euchre Tournament — 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6. Everyone welcome. Smithton Senior Center, 711 S. Main, Smithton. 618-233-3370.
▪ Holiday Festive Sweater Trivia Night — 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6. Bel-Air Bowl, 200 S. Belt W., Belleville. Doors open at 6 p.m. Silent auction, 50/50 raffle, “Sleigh of Spirits” raffle, $5 mystery gifts and tons of fun. Cost: $80 per table, no more than eight per table. Proceeds benefit the Signal Hill School PTO. For reservations or information, email kselliers@signalhill181.org. facebook.com/events/477331286183733
▪ MindsEye Trivia Night — 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7. Althoff Catholic HIgh School, 5401 W. Main St., Belleville. Doors open at 6 p.m. Ten rounds of trivia, silent auction, raffles and fun games. Prize for the most festive table decorations. Costumes and ugly holiday sweaters encouraged. Cost: $150 for a table of eight. Individual tickets for $20 at the door. To reserve a table or for more information: abanks@mindseyeradio.org or 618-394-6442. Proceeds to support MindsEye’s mission: Translating Vision into Audio.
▪ Indoor .22 Rifle Shoot — Noon Sunday, Dec. 8. Millstadt Sportsman’s Club, 4915 Schmidt Lane, Belleville. Iron sights only. Refreshments available.
▪ Sunday Night Trivia — 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8. Global Brew Tap House, 455 Regency Park-B, O’Fallon. You and up to five friends can come test your knowledge with new questions every week. facebook.com/GlobalBrewOFallonIL
▪ Bunko — 6:30-8:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 9. Eckert’s Country Restaurant, 951 S. Green Mount Road, Belleville. Cost: $5 per person, includes game, prizes, beverages and snacks. Open to the public. No reservation required. 618-233-0513, ext. 3.
▪ Althoff Catholic Fathers & Friends’ Bingo — 7-10 p.m. Mondays. CK & L of I Country Club, 2800 N. Illinois St., Swansea.
▪ Bridge — 11:45 a.m. Tuesdays. Senior Center, 10025 Bunkum Road, Fairview Heights. Sponsored by Caseyville Township. 618-310-1289.
▪ Cribbage Club — 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays. 1 Columbus Plaza, KC Club, Collinsville. Nine games played against nine different opponents. Yvonne Bright 618-344-1521 or John Bilski 618-398-1029.
▪ Euchre Tournament — 7 p.m. Wednesdays. Agriculture Building, Scheve Park, Sixth Street and Park Drive, Mascoutah. 618-401-8858.
Theater/Concerts
▪ Singer/Songwriter Thursday at The Abbey — 7-10 p.m. Thursdays. The Abbey, 5801 W. Main St., Belleville. Enjoy live music at The Abbey every Thursday night. thebellevilleabbey.com
▪ Christmas with the Collinsville Chorale: ‘Love’s Pure Light’ — 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8. Friday — Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 304 South St., Collinsville. Sunday — St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 519 E. Fourth St., Alton. singcc.org
▪ Faith Concert Series presents The Twilight Band — 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6. Faith Lutheran Church, 520 E. U.S. 50, O’Fallon. An evening of Christmas music by this five-piece group in classic rock, pop, jazz and country styles. Guests include Faith’s own Triumphant Brass and special guest Gary Dammer, USAF (ret.) on trumpet. Free will offering. Desserts following. 618-532-5562 or faith-online.org
▪ Tim Zimmerman & the King’s Brass — 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6. First Christian Church, 1200 W. Boone St., Salem. Doors open at 6 p.m. An evening of Christmas music featuring the award-winning instrumental group. Free admission. A love offering will be received. Sponsored by the Southern Illinois’ Homecoming Gospel Choir.
▪ ComedySportz Match — 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6, and 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7. CSz St. Louis, 524 S. Main St., St. Charles, Missouri. Outrageously funny improv played like a sport. A perfect combo of funny and sports creating an explosion of laughter and competition on stage. Tickets available at the door on online at cszstlouis.com/tickets. facebook.com/events/758721837932822
▪ ‘A Life in the Theater’ by David Mamet — 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6, Saturday, Dec. 7, and 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8. The Gaslight Theater, 358 N. Boyle Ave., St. Louis. The Pulitzer Prize-winning author of “Glengarry Glen Ross” and “Speed-The-Plow” takes us into the lives of two actors: John, young and rising into the first flush of his success; the other Robert, older, anxious, and beginning to wane. In a series of short, spare, and increasingly raw exchanges, we see the estrangement of youth from age and the wider, inevitable and endless cycle of life, in and out of the theater. For additional performance dates and ticket information: gaslighttheater.net
▪ George Portz’s 14th annual Winter Bluegrass Fan Appreciation Show — 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7. Mascoutah American Legion, 1414 W. Main St., Mascoutah. Doors open at 6 p.m. Featuring George Portz and His Friends of Bluegrass, Thunder and Lightning Cloggers, Lit’l Miss Country Ruby Pearson, and more. Food available for purchase, free snacks, attendance prizes. Admission: adults $7, children $3.50. Table reservations available. 618-632-1384.
▪ SWIC Concert Choir & Chamber Singers — 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7. Union United Methodist Church, 721 E. Main St., Belleville. Carols by Candlelight V featuring Allegra Lilly, principal harpist of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra. Free and open to the public. swic.edu/swicarts
▪ ‘A Twisted Christmas Carol’ — 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8. Alton Little Theater, 2450 N. Henry St., Alton. The most unusual Christmas Eve “barbecue” you’ll ever dream about. Even Charles Dickens would laugh. For additional performance dates and ticket information: altonlittletheater.org
▪ Christmas at the Cathedral — 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7. Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis, 4431 Lindell Blvd., St. Louis. Experience the joy of the music of Christmas with the St. Louis Archdiocesan Choirs and Orchestra. The program includes the Christmas portion of “The Messiah” and other Christmas classics old and new. Tickets: $19-$42. cathedralconcerts.org
▪ Christmas Musical: ‘Come Let Us Worship the King’ — 10:15 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 8. First Baptist Church of Fairview Heights, 10401 Lincoln Trail, Fairview Heights. Performed by the Amazing Grace Choir. Free and open to the public. 618-397-4720.
▪ Union United Methodist Church Fine Arts Series: ‘Bronze Expressions’ — 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8. Union United Methodist Church, 721 E. Main St., Belleville. The handbell ensemble from Centralia will present a concert of Christmas favorites. Freewill offering. Reception to follow.
▪ Couts Music Series: Advent Vespers — 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8. Second Presbyterian Church, 4501 Westminster Place, Central West End, St. Louis. Acclaimed St. Louis jazz pianist Carolbeth True and percussionist David True offer improvisations on a variety of Advent carols, including familiar favorites. Free and open to the public. secondchurch.net
▪ A Masterworks Christmas — 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8. St. Clare Catholic Church, 1411 Cross St., O’Fallon. The annual concert features a candlelight processional, new and traditional Christmas music, full orchestra and a sing-along. Pre- and post-concert receptions. Tickets: adults $25, seniors 65+ and military $20, students $10. 618-304-9094 or eventbrite.com
▪ Chamber Music Society of St. Louis: The British Are Coming — 7:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 9, and Tuesday, Dec. 10. The Sheldon, 3648 Washington Blvd., St. Louis. Enjoy some British charm, courtesy of Holst and Purcell, and a “London” trio by honorary Brit Franz Joseph Haydn. Reserved seating: $38. TheSheldon.org
▪ The Bach Society Chorus & Orchestra annual Christmas Candlelight Concert — 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 10. Powell Hall, 718 N. Grand Blvd., St. Louis. A St. Louis Christmas tradition, the Christmas Candlelight Concert is sure to leave you feeling merry and bright. Plan to join us for Poulenc’s Gloria with soprano soloist Michele Kennedy, the beloved candlelight processional, and even the “12 Days of Christmas” with a special appearance by The St. Louis Children’s Choirs and Webster University Chamber Singers. For tickets and information: powellhall.com
▪ Jazz at The Gaslight: Vincent Varvel Guitars with Ben Wheeler Bass — 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 10. The Gaslight Theater, 358 N. Boyle Ave., St. Louis. Tickets are $15 and available online at ticketmaster.com or by phone at 800-982-2787. gaslighttheater.net
▪ Holiday Instrumental Concert — 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 10. Jane Knight Auditorium, 27210 College Road, Centralia. Featuring the Kaskaskia College Concert and Jazz Bands under the direction of Professor Cliff Jourdan. Free and open to the public.
▪ The Hett and State Street Dance Company co-present ‘The Nutcracker’ — 6:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 13, and Saturday, Dec. 14. Russel E. and Fern M. Hettenhausen Center for the Arts, 400 N. Alton St., Lebanon. Tickets: $25 adult, $22 senior, $10 student/child, McKendree University students free. thehett.com
▪ USAF Band of Mid-America — 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 13. Scottish Rite Masonic Bodies, 1549 Frank Scott Parkway West, Belleville. Free but tickets are required. eventbrite.com
▪ The Lindenwood Theater Touring Series: The Saint Louis Ballet — 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15. The Lindenwood Theater, 2300 W. Clay St., St. Charles, Missouri. The Saint Louis Ballet presents the second act of “The Nutcracker” and other engaging pieces from its world-renowned repertoire. Tickets start at $29.50. https://www.lindenwood.edu/j-scheidegger-center-for-the-arts/
Club News
▪ Cook the Book: ‘Taste of Home Best Loved Cookies’ — 6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 5. New Athens District Library, 201 N. Van Buren St., New Athens. Browse this month’s cookbook, pick the recipe that speaks to you, then bring it to the library to share. Enjoy what other cooks have made while discussing the challenges and joys or the food’s preparation. Registration required. To register, please visit the library in person. newathenslibrary.org
▪ Belleville Chapter of PFLAG — 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 5. St. Paul United Church of Christ, 115 W. B St., Belleville. A support, education and advocacy group for the LGBTQ community, their families and allies. Annual Christmas potluck. If you plan to attend, please call or email the chapter. Meetings are free and open to the public. 618-977-5078, bellevilleilpflag@hotmail.com or pflagbelleville.org
▪ St. Clair County Genealogical Society — 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 5. St. Luke’s Parish Hall, 226 N. Church St., Belleville. Holiday party celebration. Members are asked to bring a treat and a story about their family research to share. stclair-ilgs.org or facebook.com/SCCGS
▪ Stitchin’ in the Stacks — 2-4 p.m. Fridays. Glen Carbon Centennial Library, 198 S. Main, Glen Carbon. If you like to knit, crochet or embroider, gather and socialize with others who share your interest and pick up a few tips and tricks as you work your own creations. Bring your supplies. Self-directed program; no instructor. 618-288-1212 or glencarbonlibrary.org
▪ Mid-Illinois Iris Society Christmas Party — 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7. Caseyville Township Hall, 10001 Bunkum Road, Fairview Heights. Turkey, dressing and gravy. Members bring sides and desserts. Bingo with prizes following lunch. Iris enthusiasts always welcome. 618-822-6584.
▪ Turkey Hill Grange Christmas Party — 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7. Corner of Illinois 15 and Green Mount Road, Belleville. Cookie exchange at 5:30 p.m. Party begins at 6 p.m. Everyone is asked to bring cookies or hors d’oeuvres to share. There will be a visit from Santa. Members and guests are invited to attend. 618-910-3454.
▪ St. Louis Jazz Club Christmas Party — 2-4:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8. Moolah Shrine Center, 12545 Fee Fee Road, St. Louis. Doors open at 1:15 p.m. Annual wine and cheese Christmas party with Cornet Chop Suey Jazz Band. Wine and cheese will be served at intermission. Beverages and snacks available. Admission: $15 members, $20 non-members. Students free with valid ID. 314-972-8298 or stlouisjazzclub.org
▪ M.U.S.I.C. Swing Dance Club — 5-9:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8. VFW Hall, 1234 Vandalia St., Collinsville. One-hour free lesson with paid admission. No partner needed. Doors open 5 p.m. Lessons start 5:30 p.m. Dance 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. musicswingdance.com
▪ St. Clair Women’s Club — Noon Tuesday, Dec. 10. Bellecourt Place, 120 N. Jackson St., Belleville. Noon luncheon.
▪ Collinsville Area Christian Women’s Connection — 12:15 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 10. Gateway Center, One Gateway Drive, Collinsville. Christmas luncheon. Nanette Norrenberns will sing carols. Joan Vidlak will speak on “Life … What an Adventure,” holding it all together through the adventures and misadventures of being a wife and mother of six daughters. Cost: $17, inclusive. Reservations necessary. 618-465-5485 or 618-307-9448.
▪ GriefShare Seminar/Support Group — 6-7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 10. Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Conference Room, Lower Level, 1300 Beltline Road, Collinsville. A helpful, encouraging seminar for people grieving the death of a loved one. Features practical suggestions and reassurance through video interviews with counselors, grief experts and others who have experienced the death of a loved one.
▪ Optimist Club of Belleville — 6 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 10. Bellecourt Place, 120 N. Jackson St., Belleville. Luncheon and program. Club Christmas Party. Entertainment: District 118 Jazz Band. Call 618-910-3454 to RSVP.
▪ Book Club: ‘A Caribbean Mystery’ by Agatha Christie — 6:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 10. Glen Carbon Centennial Library, 198 S. Main, Glen Carbon. Drop in and discover good books, good discussion, and great people the second Tuesday of every month. Copies of the book can be picked up at the Circulation Desk. The 2020 book club list is now online. 618-288-1212 or glencarbonlibrary.org
▪ O’Fallon Sunrise Rotary Meeting — 6:45 a.m. Wednesdays. O’Fallon Township Building, 801 E. State St., O’Fallon. ofallonsunriserotary.org
▪ Belleville Metro East Christian Women’s Club — 10 a.m. to noon Wednesday, Dec. 11. Bellecourt Place, 120 N. Jackson St., Belleville. Whimsical Stitch luncheon. Featuring Joan Vidlak, who will show how to repurpose clothing into hobo bags, aprons and hats and share “Life … What an Adventure.” Cost: $14, inclusive. Reservations and cancellations essential for luncheon. Call Sue at 618-567-3959.
Food
▪ Millstadt Fish Fry and Jam Session — 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4-8 p.m. Fridays, Millstadt VFW Post, 200 Veterans Drive, Millstadt. 618-476-1180.
▪ Waterloo VFW Fish Fry — 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Fridays. Metzger Crook Post 6504, 406 Veterans Drive, Waterloo. Sold by the pound, sandwich or plate. Cod, catfish, walleye, salmon and shrimp. Carry-outs. 618-939-7999.
▪ Swansea Fish Stand – 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. 216 Service St., Swansea. Cod, walleye, catfish, shrimp and more. Saturday: fried chicken. 618-222-7171.
▪ Collinsville Fish Fry — 3-8 p.m. Fridays, Collinsville American Legion, 1022 Vandalia St., Collinsville. North Atlantic cod, whole catfish, sides, desserts. 618-345-2508.
▪ Caseyville Fish Fry — 4-7 p.m. Fridays, Caseyville VFW Post 1117, 415 N. Long, Caseyville. Fish plates, desserts, sandwiches, burgers and more. Bingo at 7 p.m.
▪ St. Elizabeth Church Fish Fry — 4-7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6. St. Elizabeth Church, 2300 Pontoon Road, Granite City. Cod, catfish, pollock, jack salmon, shrimp. Eat-in or carry-out.
▪ Troy VFW Fish Fry — 4-7 p.m. Fridays. Troy VFW Post 976 and Auxiliary, 123-A W. Market St., Troy. Cod, catfish, jack salmon, baked fish, chicken strips, shrimp. Dine in or carry out. 618-667-8387.
▪ Collinsville Fish Fry — 4-7:30 p.m. Fridays. Knights of Columbus Hall, 1 Columbus Plaza, Collinsville. Eat in or carry out. Fried/baked cod, catfish, sides. 618-345-1492.
▪ Highland Fish Fry — 4-7:30 p.m. Fridays. VFW Post 5694, 1900 VFW Road, Highland. Eat in or carry out. 618-654-6367.
▪ O’Fallon Fish Fry — 4-8 p.m. Fridays. Knights of Columbus Hall, 402 E. U.S. 50, O’Fallon. Cod and tilapia, hamburgers, hot dogs, pork steaks, pizza and additional side dishes. Eat in or carry out. Now accepting credit cards. 618-632-6229.
▪ Aviston Legion Fish Fry — 4:30-7 p.m. Fridays. American Legion Post 1239, 601 S. Clinton, Aviston. Fried and baked cod, catfish, shrimp, chicken strips, sides. Eat in or carry out. 618-228-7311 or avistonlegion.com
▪ Mascoutah Fish Fry — 5-8 p.m. Fridays. Mascoutah VFW Post 7682, 620 Donaphan St., Mascoutah. Dine in or carry out. 618-566-2288.
▪ O’Fallon Fish and Chicken Fry — 5-8 p.m. Fridays. O’Fallon American Legion, 109 N. Penn, O’Fallon. Carry-outs available. 618-632-8879.
▪ Quail Club Fish Fry — 5-8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6. Quail Club, 8303 Concordia Church Road, Belleville. Cod, walleye, shrimp, wings and burgers. Sides and desserts available. Carry-out available. No phone orders.
▪ Shiloh Fish Fry — 5-8 p.m. Fridays. 100 Eagle Drive, Shiloh. Cod, walleye, catfish, shrimp, chicken wings. Eat in or carry out. Auxiliary bake sale for charity. 618-624-5412.
▪ Evening in Athens Greek Dinners — 4-8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7. Sts. Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church, 405 Huntwood Road, Swansea. Dinners featuring tasty home-baked Greek entrées, pastries served in the casual and friendly atmosphere of the church hall. Fasting fare entrée available during Orthodox fasts. Open to the public. Carry-out available. 618-277-0330.
Reservations Required
▪ Holiday Open House — 1-3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7. Glen Carbon Centennial Library, 198 S. Main, Glen Carbon. Bring your camera to this annual event and take a photo with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Will provide Annie’s Frozen Custard, sugar cookies to decorate and holiday crafts. Registration is required. 618-288-1212 or glencarbonlibrary.org
▪ 26th annual Festival of Trees Gala — 6 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 11. Gateway Convention Center, One Gateway Drive, Collinsville. Enjoy an evening filled with music, cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and desserts at this adults-only, semi-formal fundraising event. Tickets start at $35. For tickets and information, visit gatewayfestivaloftrees.eventbrite.com
▪ Breastfeeding Support Class — 6:30-9:15 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 11. Memorial Hospital East, 1404 Cross St., Shiloh. If you are considering breastfeeding or have chosen to breastfeed your baby, this class will provide information, encouragement and support for a successful breastfeeding experience. Both parents are encouraged to attend. Cost: $10 per couple. Advance registration required. 618-767-3627 or mymemorialnetwork.com/events
▪ State Rep. Katie Stuart Holiday Open House — 4:30-6:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 12. 2105 Vandalia St., Unit 16, Collinsville. Enjoy refreshments and share your thoughts on the state and local issues that matter most to you. Rep. Stuart will also be collecting items for her warm clothing drive. Donations for families in need are appreciated but not required to attend. To RSVP or for more information, call 618-365-6650.
▪ Wonders of Watercolor — 5-6:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 12. Glen Carbon Centennial Library, 198 S. Main, Glen Carbon. Artist Greta Pastorello will show you basic technical instructions before trying them on your own art piece. A simple subject (like a leaf, a bird, a flower image, etc.) will guide your creativity and inspire you to create your own little artwork. Limited to 12 participants, ages 14 and up. Registration required. 618-288-1212 or glencarbonlibrary.org
▪ Mentoring with Purpose: Holiday Outreach — Tuesday, Dec. 17. Shiloh A.M.E. Church Fellowship Annex, 815 S. 19th St., East St. Louis. In partnership with Burlington and Delivering Goods to provide free winter coats to needy families during the holiday season. By application only. Applications must be received by Friday, Dec. 6. Program notifications sent out by Dec. 9. Resources are limited. For applications or more information contact 618-434-9527, charlies.white@yahoo.com or greenleejanet@att.net.
Worth the Drive
▪ Olde Alton Art & Craft Fair — 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7, and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8. Alton High School, 4200 Humbert Road, Alton. Find all your Christmas goodies at the annual event featuring a variety of crafters from Illinois, Missouri, Indiana and Kentucky. Breakfast and lunch will be served. Admission: Saturday $2 per person, Sunday $1 per person. Children 12 and under are free. Proceeds benefit the Alton Band and Orchestra programs at Alton Community School District. visitalton.com
▪ Home for the Holidays Tour — Noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7. Will call ticket pickup site: Civic Center, 51 Mill St., Elsah. Tour selected private residences decorated for the holidays. Advance ticket price: $15. Day of event tickets: $18 (cash only). 314-308-0931 or historicelsah.org/tour
▪ Mississippi Valley Regional Blood Center Blood Drive — 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday, Dec. 9. OSF HealthCare Saint Clare’s Medical Office Building, Auditorium B, 815 E. Fifth St., Alton. bloodcenterimpact.org
▪ Mississippi Valley Regional Blood Center Blood Drive — 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 11. OSF Saint Anthony’s Health Center, Perpetual Health Center, #1 Saint Anthony’s Way, Alton. bloodcenterimpact.org