1. Swans, Strauss and silver bells
It will begin to sound a lot like Christmas during the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra’s annual Holiday Pops Celebration, with two performances at Skyview Concert Hall, 1300 N.E. 139th St., Vancouver, at 3 p.m. Dec. 8 and 7 p.m. Dec. 9. The stage will fill with Columbia Dance Company dancers twirling and leaping to selections from Tchaikovsky’s “Swan Lake,” and VSO will also perform a flurry of Vienna-style celebration waltzes, cheerful polkas and energetic Strauss marches. Tickets start at $34 or $10 for students with ID. 360-735-7278 or vancouversymphony.org
2. Light it up
The city of Camas is hosting its Hometown Holidays annual tree-lighting (with fireworks!) from 5 to 9 p.m. Dec. 7. The tree will be illuminated exactly at 6:30 p.m. in front of the Liberty Theatre, 315 N.E. Fourth Ave. The free First Friday event also includes photos with Santa, crafts, hay rides, art shows, festive food and live entertainment from choirs, bands and dancers. Shops will be open late with holiday sales, and restaurants, taprooms and cocktail lounges will offer seasonal specials. Parking with free shuttle service is available at several nearby lots. 360-834-6864 or cityofcamas.us
3. Expect the unexpected
The holidays can be stressful, but Magenta Theater’s improv troupe is here to help with a Christmas Improv Show at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 8. These seasoned improvisational artists can’t do your shopping or make Christmas dinner for your in-laws, but they can make you laugh until your troubles melt like peppermint drops. The family-friendly show, with sketches and games based on audience suggestions, is entirely G-rated — a jolly good time for kids and grandparents alike. Tickets are $10 in advance or $12 at the door, 1108 Main St., Vancouver. Come as early at 7 p.m. to get a good seat and grab some snacks from the lobby. 360-635-4358 or magentatheater.com
4. Santa pause
Santa and Mrs. Claus will make a stop in Battle Ground from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Dec. 7, where they’ll be guests of honor at the city’s Holiday Tree Lighting. They’ll roll into town on the District 3 fire engine, just in time for the celebration at Battle Ground Community Center, 912 E. Main St., Battle Ground. There will be caroling led by the Battle Ground High School Jazz Choir, free warm refreshments and a chance for kids to meet the Clauses, request presents and pose for pictures. Guests are encouraged to get into the Christmas spirit by bringing contributions for the North County Food Bank. 360-342-5380 or www.cityofbg.org
