From Kim Kraemer in Grand Rivers -  

Each year at Christmas I become a tourist in my own town as I take advantage of all of the holiday happenings. My favorite event is the Lighting Ceremony at Patti's.  This year the ceremony was held on November 9, and we enjoyed music by Eternal Vision and the spectacular lights of Patti's. I wish to recognize the Tullar Family and Patti's Settlement for the hard work and talent that goes into creating the Holiday Festival of Lights. Patti's makes the Holidays in Grand Rivers so special. Thank you to the Tullar Family for providing such a great evening.    Lights and enjoy shopping, shows and family time in Grand Rivers, you should make your plans now.  Find more information on our Holiday events and packages by visiting www.grandrivers.com. 

Variety! Music, Memories and More Christmas Spectacular   Friday and Saturday nights through December 22,  8:00 p.m. Badgett Playhouse grandriversvariety.com This Branson-style Christmas revue features Christmas Classics, old and new. Variety! is sure to become a new must-see holiday tradition. Box Office 888-362-4233.

Holiday Festival of Lights                                                            Now though January 5, Patti's 1880's Settlement and downtown Grand Rivers. The lights turn on every evening at dusk. The Holiday decorations include over 500,000 lights in Patti's Settlement and downtown Grand Rivers. Sponsored by Patti's, Jackson Purchase Electric Company and Grand Rivers Tourism.

Tuna Christmas   Thursday nights through December 20, 8:00 p.m. Badgett Playhouse grandriversvariety.comThe residents of Tuna, TX return!  The hilarious sequel to the down-home comedy "Greater Tuna".  Come celebrate Christmas "Tuna Style". Two actors playing 20 different parts.  Box Office 888-362-4223.

Its A Wonderful Life A Live Radio Play   Sunday afternoons through December 23, 3:00 p.m. Badgett Playhouse grandriversvariety.com An adaptation of the classic Frank Capra film presented live on stage, as if it were an actual 1940's radio show.  The actors will be dressed in 1940's era costumes, reading from scripts in front of period microphones, while an on-stage sound person provides sound effects.  Box Office 888-362-4233.

Santa Visits Patti's 1880's Settlement   Now through December 23 Patti's Gazebo Patti's 1880's Settlement Santa will be in the gazebo from 5:00 p.m. 'til  8:00 p.m. On Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. On Sunday he is there from 2:00 p.m. 'till 6:00 p.m. Bring your camera.  Children of all ages are welcome.

Land Between the Lakes Planetarium Christmas Shows     Saturday, December 1 through Friday, December 21          Golden Pond Planetarium   A Story of Christmas Monday - Friday, 1pm and Saturday - Sunday, 11:00 a.m. & 2:00 p.m. Explore the customs of Christmas and Hanukkah and see the skies as they looked in the Holy Lands at the time of Christ.   'Tis the Season Monday - Friday, 10:00 a.m. & 2:00 p.m. and Saturday - Sunday, 10am, 1pm, & 3pm Explore the seasonal and religious rituals from around the world, and how the stars and planets have played an important role in these celebrations throughout history. Call 270-924-2020 for more information.

Do You Hear What I Hear? Friday nights;December 7, and December 14, 6:00 p.m. Chamber office patio Local Choir groups perform holiday selections and hot cider will be served.  Free event - Everyone welcome.  Sponored by the Grand Rivers Chamber of Commerce.

Green Turtle Bay Holiday Gift Showcase   Saturday, December 8, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Sunday, December 9, 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. Green Turtle Bay Conference Center Avoid the hustle and bustle of the mall and shop for great holiday gifts at Green Turtle Bay Conference Center. Numerous vendors including The Candle Station, You Name it Printing, Arbonne International, The Perfect Day Florist, Kenfunky Tees, Gingko Gardens, Steve Estes Art Gallery, Wagner gourmet food items, and more. Let the kids visit with Santa and pick out gifts for mom and dad in our "kids only" secret shopping room. Try Dockers Bayside Grille for lunch.

Land Between the Lakes A Christmas Eve At The Homeplace    Saturday, December 8 & 15, 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.   LBL Homeplace  Join The Homeplace family as they prepare for an 1850's Christmas Eve by decorating a Christmas tree, enjoying favorite holiday treats, and singing traditional carols. Bring your family and help us celebrate this holly, jolly holiday! Doors open at 4:30 p.m. Limited registration. Reservations and full deposit required. Call 270-924-2020 to reserve your space.

1st Kentucky Bank Holiday Open House   December 10 through 14 Visit 1st Kentucky Bank and enjoy hot cider and refreshments.