They don't call it Dyker Lights for nothing

By Meredith Deliso

Do they know it’s Christmas? They do in Dyker Heights.

Year in and year out, thousands flock to the neighborhood to see some of the best holiday decorations in the city, even earning it the nickname “Dyker Lights.”

This year isn’t any different, as the six-block area bounded by 83rd and 86th streets and 11th and 13th avenues is decked out in two-story Santas, 10-foot tall dancers that pirouette to the music of the “Nutcracker Suite,” and 29-foot-tall toy soldiers marching in place.

Our favorites include the Polizzottos (1145 84th St. between 11th and 12th avenues), who have an absolutely gigantic Santa greeting visitors, as well as galloping reindeer and a life-size merry-go-round. Across the street, the Spatas (1152 84th St., above) are not to be missed. The family started the tradition 25 years ago, after all, and has one of the largest displays in the city. This year, it grew by two 15-foot-tall nutcrackers.

The larger-than-life figures have become very popular this year, said Tony Muia, a Bensonhurst native who runs the “Slice of Brooklyn” pizza tours and, more recently, a Dyker Lights tour.

“People are getting really imaginative with their decorations. It’s amazing what people are coming up with,” said Muia. “We didn’t schlep all the way to Rockefeller Center for the lights. We went to see the lights of Dyker Heights. It’s a tradition.”

For info on the “Slice of Brooklyn” Christmas tours, visit www.asliceofbrooklyn.com/christmas.html.

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One last 'Nutcracker'

By Meredith Deliso

Not sick of “The Nutcracker” just yet?

Then check out the American Ballet Theatre’s full-length production of the holiday classic, as the world-class company comes to the Brooklyn Academy of Music just in the nick of time, in previews starting tonight and running to Jan. 2.

Don’t get this confused with “The Hard Nut,” a retro reimagining by Mark Morris of the eventful Christmas night that recently ran on stage at BAM. 

The American Ballet Theatre’s version, from choreographer Alexei Ratmansky, presents a more traditional retelling of the children’s story, complete with a live orchestra performing the full score, charming child dancers, and extraordinary Biedermeier-inspired sets and costumes by Tony Award-winner Richard Hudson (of “Lion King” fame) to help bring to life the toy soldiers, enchanting fairies, dancing snowflakes and mischievous mice.

The run, just the company’s third “Nutcracker” in its 70-year history, features several matinee performances throughout the week — perfect for families with children home from school — with 16 performances crammed into 10 days of performances, so you can enjoy “The Nutcracker” before it’s simply too late.

“The Nutcracker” at the Brooklyn Academy of Music [30 Lafayette Ave. between Ashland Place and St. Felix Street in Fort Greene,  (718) 646-4100], Dec. 22-Jan. 2. Tickets $20-$135. For info, visit www.abt.org.

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Label away

Looking for a way to spruce up your gifts this holiday?

The Local shares with us these easy-to-print gift tags, made by Brooklyn artist Julia Rothman, available to download over at Design Sponge. Choose from among illustrations of reindeer, nutcrackers, mittens and winter scenes, in pleasing teals and reds. They'll made an adorable to any gift!

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Eat right this Christmas Eve

This Christmas, leave the cooking up to the pros. Henry's End owner Mark Lahm shows off the Brooklyn Heights restaurant's stuffed quail with sour cherry reduction. Photo by Stefano Giovannini

By Michelle Manetti

Sure, Christmas Eve is one of the big “family nights” on the Gregorian calendar, but that doesn’t mean you can’t take the family out to a great meal at one of the few borough restaurants that are open. Here’s our guide to the best Christmas Eve dining options (minus Chinese restaurants, which never seem to close):

Fish

In Bay Ridge, the seafood-renowned Pearl Room will be serving up a Christmas Eve menu that will live up to its reputation.

Guests can enjoy appetizers like crab cakes, baked clams and a seafood salad and entrees including lobster ravioli, penne a la vodka with a choice of chicken or shrimp and hummus-crusted Atlantic salmon, in an atmosphere as good as the food.

“All ages come here to celebrate,” said waitress Donna Somma. “We have a lot of couples and big families but it’s great because it’s a very safe environment, not rowdy at all. It’s classy.”

In Coney Island, Gargiulo’s is also planning on a big fish feast. Along with the number of pastas being offered for $10-$15, there will also be entrees like fried calamari, broiled lobster tails and shrimp racanati, ranging from $17-$35.

The Pearl Room [8201 Third Ave. at 82nd Street in Bay Ridge, (718) 833-666]; $52 plus tax. Seatings begin at 4 pm on Dec. 24. Also open Dec. 25. Reservations required. Gargiulo’s [2911 W. 15th St. between Mermaid and Surf avenues in Coney Island, (718) 266-4891]. Reservations required, last seating at 8:30 pm. Closed Dec. 25.

Meat

If you’re more of the meat and potatoes kind of family, Henry’s End in Brooklyn Heights has just what you’re looking for. And it’s not just the hearty winter fare that creates the holiday mood.

“We have very festive decorations in the restaurant,” said owner Mark Lahm. “Families come here to enjoy themselves in a calm and comfortable place.”

For a pre-fixed price of $60, diners choose from appetizers including a shaved Brussels sprout salad or stuffed quail in a Pinot Noir reduction, and entrees such as duck with spicy orange glaze and Buffalo hanger steak. A glass of sparkling wine and dessert is included.

In Marine Park, Salvi Restaurant will also be big on the land, serving chicken, veal and lamb dishes at a variety of prices, and Buckley’s Restaurant iwill be serving Christmas Eve dinner with a choice of 12 entrees, including its famous roast prime rib for $29.95.

Henry’s End [44 Henry Street between Cranberry and Middagh Streets in Brooklyn Heights, (718) 834-1776]; $60 plus tax. Reservations required. Closed Dec. 25; Salvi Restaurant [4420 Quentin Road between Flatbush Avenue and Hendrickson Street in Marine Park, (718) 252-3030]. Seatings at 6 pm and 8:30 pm on Dec. 24. Reservations required. Closed Dec. 25; Buckley’s Restaurant [2926 Avenue S at Nostrand Avenue in Marine Park, (718) 998-4222]; Reservations required. Open Dec. 24 from 5-9 pm. Closed Dec. 25.

Vegetarian

If you’re looking to keep off the pounds this holiday season, the excellent Sun in Bloom in Park Slope wants to help.

“Raw living food and gluten free items are perfect for people who want to keep pounds off and feel light after their holiday meals,” said owner Aimee Follette. “Friends and family will be delighted by the pleasure of our dishes and feel lighter, energized, and healthy.”

This vegan restaurant is serving delicious treats like pumpkin-yam soup, three bean chili with gluten free corn bread, rosemary thyme stuffing and raw apple pie at a variety of prices. You won’t miss meat.

Sun in Bloom [460 Bergen St. between Fifth and Flatbush avenues in Park Slope, (718) 622-4303]. Open Dec. 24 from 8 am-3 pm. Reservations required. Take-out option is available. Closed Dec. 25.

All of the above

Can’t decide on what you want just yet? Two Williamsburg restaurants will be serving up a range of French and German holiday dishes for you to feast on.

Le Comptoir will be open on both Christmas Eve and Christmas, with specials including baked oysters with champagne sabayon, lobster salad, Beef Wellington, and even a foie gras tasting menu on both nights, as well as a lobster-heavy brunch on Christmas.

For more of a German spin, Loreley Williamsburg will be serving a special dinner on both Christmas Eve and Christmas. For $38, enjoy a three-course meal with a choice of grilled filet mignon or Eisbein (grilled pork shank) or Kartoffelgratin (vegetarian casserole), with a housemade apple strudel or traditional stollen cake for dessert. Drink it all down with a choice of beer or glass of mulled Glühwein. It’ll be the start of a new tradition.

Meanwhile, on Court Street in Carroll Gardens, Marco Polo is doing what it does best. Sticking with traditional Italian fish dishes, guests can enjoy appetizers like fried calamari for $13.95 and entrees such as “baccala alla livornese” which is dry codfish sautéed with potatoes, onions, capers and olives for $24.95.

Le Comptoir [251 Grand St. near Roebling Street in Williamsburg, (718) 486-3300], open Dec. 24 from 5-11 pm and Dec. 25 from noon-8 pm. Reservations recommended; Loreley Williamsburg [64 Frost St. near Meeker Avenue in Williamsburg, (718) 599-0025]. Open from 5 pm-midnight for dinner. Reservations recommended; Marco Polo [345 Court St. at Union Street in Carroll Gardens, (718) 852-5015]. Reservations required. 

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Have a holly jolly Christmas, thanks to this jamboree

By Meredith Deliso 

“This isn’t the kind of concert where we expect the audience to sit and politely clap.”

         

So warns Ethan Schlesser. For his annual Jingle Bell Jamboree, the PS 97 choir teacher pulls together some of the borough’s best performers to not only entertain you, but get you to your feet and belting out holiday classics and singalongs.

On Dec. 18, the Old First Reformed Church in Park Slope once again hosts the holiday show, a variety act now in its 10th year that will feature the Brooklyn Technical HS Choir, the “Old First” Family String Band, the St. Joseph’s HS Step team, the PS 97 Show Choir, and such regulars as the Brooklyn Community Chorus.

“The first year we did it, we had a singalong that was very low key. It was almost like you were at a friend’s house having a holiday gathering,” said Schlesser, who, in addition to manning the piano, will also perform a vaudeville-style opening number with the church’s pastor, Rev. Daniel Meeter (pictured above. The pastor's wearing the gloves). “For me, it’s important to keep that spirit. The audience is involved throughout the concert.”

That couldn’t be more true than in the big finale — a performance of “The 12 Days of Christmas,” where unsuspecting members of the audience are picked to act out the various “gifts.”

“If a group does poorly, we stop the singalong, point at them and say you have to do better again,” said Schlesser. “It’s pandemonium.”

Jingle Bell Jamboree at the Old First Reformed Church [Seventh Avenue at Carroll Street in Park Slope, (718) 638-8300], Dec. 18 at 7 pm. Suggested donation of $10, $5 for children.

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The gang's all there

By Meredith Deliso

It’s one thing to believe in the story of the Three Wise Men, Mary and Joseph, and the little baby that they birthed in a manger, but it’s another thing to see it live.

So as it has done for decades, the New Utrecht Reformed Church will mark the Christmas holiday this Saturday with its annual living nativity — a recreation of the manger scene using live actors and animals.

Save for the electric floodlights and a CD blaring holiday music, the tableau of the Virgin Mary, Joseph and the shepherds presents a peaceful Biblical scene — the only one of its kind.

“It’s a very nice gift to the community,” said Susan Hanyen, vice president of the church’s Consistory. “It’s really what Christmas is all about. It’s not about the shopping, but about what the gift was.”

For three hours that day, actors will be dressed in Biblical clothing to portray the scene ­— with baby Jesus “played” by a plastic doll (hey, it’s cold outside). Live animals — a cow, two sheep, and two goats — will also create a temporary petting zoo that’s sure to stand out on the church’s lawn.

“Eighteenth Avenue is a busy street, so people are sometimes taken aback to see this scene in the middle of a busy street,” said Hanyen.

Living nativity at New Utrecht Reformed Church [18th Avenue between 83rd and 84th streets in Bensonhurst, (718) 256-7173], Dec. 18 from 3-6 pm. Free. For info, visit www.historicnewutrecht.org.

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Theater review: A hot little 'Nutcracker' from Company XIV

By Meredith Deliso

’Tis the season for “Nutcrackers” of all stripes, be them faithful or irreverent. For a sexed-up retelling that’s full of eye candy, Company XIV’s reimagining, “Nutcracker Rouge,” doesn’t disappoint.

The Carroll Gardens-based dance-theater troupe has made a name for itself thanks to its sensual, over-the-top productions that are as much a celebration of the human body as the dance that it performs. And “Nutcracker Rouge,” the company’s vamped-up contribution to the holiday tradition, now through Jan. 9, turns the classic tale into a sumptuous treat that’s certainly not for kids.

At the helm of Company XIV’s version is Drosselmeyer, a dramatic narrator who demands as much attention as the characters he introduces — including his goddaughter, the virginal Marie Claire, upon whom he bestows one fateful Christmas a nutcracker who is actually the prince of the Kingdom of the Sweets whose past deeds includes fending off an army of mice but who is now miserably awaiting his queen.

The kingdom itself is the real sweet here, ripe as it is with half-naked dancers who represent chocolates, cherry truffles, licorice and macaroons. Oh, the macaroons.

The dances — set to a jazzy score based off the original Tchaikovsky music — feature a harem of “Turkish delights,” perfectly synchronized lap dances, and even a rousing can can number. The climax comes, of course, during the dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy, at which point Marie Claire sheds her girlish, stifling dress for a tiny burlesque number, complete with pasties, for the big reunion.

Choreographer Austin McCormick’s sensuous production is playful and cheeky at heart — bubbles descend like snow at the opening dance, sex acts are pantomimed to much laughs, and, in case you missed the cues, there’s even a laugh track and drum roll, however tacky.

As our Sugar Plum Fairy, Laura Careless is mesmerizing, her face appropriately angelic or cloying, and she deservedly owns the stage during her anticipated solo. The production also truly leans on our narrator, Jeff Takacs (who wrote the script, and clearly loves every word). He gamely dresses in S&M dungeon-esque duds, operatic drag and traditional Baroque fair, as is the company’s aesthetic. His theatricality lends itself well to the company’s over-the-top flair, but we were too distracted by the beautiful dancers.

Despite its charms, this “Nutcracker” is not without some sour moments. A big reveal of the Kingdom of the Sweets is underwhelming. Some of the otherwise engaging dancing falls flat; in particular, a Spanish flamenco number. Those eye-popping floor-dropping dances and stripper poles come at a price, and thanks to all that bared flesh, the evident bruises on our poor Careless are a tad distracting.

Still, this “Nutcracker” is a tasty holiday escape, favoring style over substance. And it’s nothing without style.

“Nutcracker Rouge” at Company XIV [303 Bond St. between Union and Sackett streets in Carroll Gardens, no phone), now through Jan. 9, with performances Friday through Sunday at 8 pm. No shows Dec. 24-26. Tickets $30, $25 for students and seniors. For info, visit www.companyxiv.com. 

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The must 'Nut'!

By Adam Warner

If there’s one “Nutcracker” production worth checking out this holiday season, this is it!

“The Hard Nut,” the Mark Morris Dance Group’s 1970s take on the Christmas classic, delivers E.T.A. Hoffmann’s timeless story, about a young girl who is taken to an enchanted kingdom on Christmas Eve by her beloved toy Nutcracker, and Tchaikovsky’s beloved musical score, but with angel flight suits, bell-bottoms, and go-go boots thrown in for good measure.

And after an eight-year absence from the Brooklyn Academy of Music, its return is long overdue. 

The swinging rendition comes back on Dec. 10 to dazzle audiences with whizzing toy mice, boogieing robots, battling G.I. Joe soldiers, groovy guitar players, and dancing Barbie dolls, Not to mention all the original characters like the Nutcracker, Mouse King, and Sugar Plum Fairy will make an appearance.

And, yes, there is disco.

“Hard Nut” at Brooklyn Academy of Music [30 Lafayette Ave. at Ashland Place in Fort Greene, (718) 636-4100], Dec. 10–11 and 15-18 at 7:30 pm, and Dec. 12 and 19 at 3 pm. Tickets $25-$70. For info, visit www.bam.org.

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No gelt, no glory

By Michelle Manetti

The biggest sporting event of the season is back. And no, it’s not hockey.

For the fourth year, Eric Harris Pavony (left) is putting a spin on a holiday classic with his Spin the Dreidel Tournament.  

On Dec. 9, the last night of Hanukkah, 124 competitors will battle at the Knitting Factory in Williamsburg for gelt and glory. And this year, the heat is on dreidel experts — yes, we’re talking Jews — to reclaim the title from last year’s winner, a gentile.

“I know the Jews are going to be back to reclaim the New York City title,” said Pavony, who runs Major League Dreidel.

Pavony’s contests are not typical dreidel play, where contestants try to guess the Hebrew letter on which the four-sided Hanukkah top will fall. Instead, six contestants at a time compete to see whose dreidel spins the longest.

Almost as important as your twirl technique is your fighting name, and past greats have included Spindiana Jones, The Gentile Giant and Spinglorious Bastard.

Even if you’re not into the game, you can still come out for the party and enjoy tunes by the likes of the Young New Yorkers’ Chorus and Category Sixx — the self-proclaimed world’s greatest air band.

“Whether you’re a devout Jew, or Jewish and don’t really participate, or never heard of a dreidel, it’s really a great holiday party,” said Pavony.

Spin the Dreidel tournament at the Knitting Factory [361 Metropolitan Ave. at Havemeyer Street in Williamsburg, (347) 529-6696], Dec. 9 at 7 pm. Tickets $10-$15. For info, visit www.majorleaguedreidel.com.

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It's the most wonderful time of the year

By Adam Warner

You’ll be running around these next few weeks, baking up a storm, decorating the house and crossing off everyone on your list. But don’t forget to take a step back and have fun with festivities that only come around once a year. Whether that means testing your dreidel skills, belting out a “Hallelujah” in Handel’s “Messiah,” or watching a scantily clad “Eve” perform some sacrilegious striptease, we’ve got you covered for the next month, thanks to our trusty holiday guide. Don’t leave home without it (and some mistletoe).

FUN AND GAMES

Don’t just sit there — get up, get in the game or simply shimmy off those sugar cookies at these holiday-themed parties, concerts and festivals.

Spin city: It’s not just football and basketball season — it’s dreidel season! Brooklyn’s top dreidelers will be descending on the Knitting Factory to spin their way to victory — and win Major League Dreidel’s coveted crystal trophy. There will be music, too, including holiday songs from the Young New Yorkers’ Chorus and serious face meling from Category Sixx, the “world’s greatest air band.”

Dreidel Tournament at the Knitting Factory [361 Metropolitan Ave. at Havemeyer Street in Williamsburg, (347) 529-6696], Dec. 9 at 7 pm. Tickets $10-$15. For info, visit www.majorleaguedreidel.com. 

Bowled over: ’Tis the season to give, but that doesn’t mean you can donate without a party. On Nov. 30, Brooklyn Bowl is hosting a fundraiser to support JDub records, a non-profit Jewish music label. Hosted by comedian Eugene Mirman, the show will feature JDub bands The Sway Machinery, DeLeon and Soulico. And there’s even a gift in store for you, if you’re early — first 150 people get a drink on the house.

“Festival of Strikes: A JDub Benefit Concert” at Brooklyn Bowl [61 Wythe Ave. between N. 11th and N. 12th streets in Williamsburg, (718) 963-3369], Nov. 30, 6 pm. $15. For info, visit www.brooklynbowl.com.   

Book ’em: If a sexy librarian is on your wish list this year, there’s no need to wait for old St. Nick. On Dec. 4, the Bell House hosts “Biblioball 2010: Spellbound,” a winter formal dance party to benefit the organization, Literacy for Incarcerated Teens, thrown by the ladies (and men) behind the library group, Desk Set. DJs will be spinning the beats of every decade, while bands like the Crazy Pills and Raindeer will get you rocking. And don’t forget your formal wear.

Biblioball 2010: Spellbound at the Bell House [149 Seventh St. between Second and Third avenues in Gowanus, (718) 643-6510], Dec. 4 at 8:30 pm. Tickets $20, or $45 with the 7:30 pm happy hour. For info, visit www.thebellhouseny.com.  

Festival of light: An avant-garde art rave and fashion show isn’t the traditional way to mark the first night of Hanukkah, but that’s what makes this event so enticing. On Dec. 1, a Sunset Park warehouse will welcome music, live interactive art, fashion show, and more for the first night of the sixth annual Sephardic Music Festival. Live models will present the latest apparel by Dveykus — the label behind the controversial Israeli Keffiyeh scarf — and, this being a music festival and all, DJs Y-Love, DeScribe, and Diwon will bring the beats.

Warehouse Art Rave and Fashion Show (226 36th St. near Second Avenue in Sunset Park, no phone), Dec. 1 at 7 pm. Tickest $8 in advance, $10 at the door. For info, visit shemspeed.com. 

Unorthodox reggae: It wouldn’t be Hanukkah in Brooklyn without Matisyahu’s “Festival of Light” tour, now in its fifth year. The Crown Heights–based Jewish reggae star presents eight shows, of course, this holiday, with four of them at Brooklyn Bowl and Music Hall of Williamsburg, where he’ll break out his custom-made dreidel disco ball and songs spanning his entire catalogue. That’s sure to include his new song, “Miracle,” his own answer to Adam Sandler’s unmatched “Hanukkah Song.”

Matisyahu at Brooklyn Bowl [61 Wythe Ave. between N. 11th and N. 12th streets in Williamsburg, (718) 963-3369], Nov. 29 at 9 pm. Tickets, $25; Music Hall of Williamsburg [66 N. Sixth St. between Kent and Wythe avenues, (718) 486-5400], Nov. 30 at 8:30 pm; Dec. 4 (sold out) at 9 pm; and Dec. 5 at 8:30 pm. Tickets, $35. For info, visit www.matisyahuworld.com.

CHRISTMAS SPECTACULARS  

Forget Radio City — the best theatrical spectacles this holiday season are in Brooklyn:

Bible burlesque: Storybook Burlesque’s new show covers — or uncovers — stories from the Good Book in “Bible Show.” On Dec. 3, the sacrilegious striptease comes to Coney Island, with tassel twirling, Japanese theater, and lyrical dance that you won’t remember from Sunday School. Then again, your teachers weren’t Cherry Magdalene, Rosey La Rouge, or Victoria Privates. 

Storybook Burlesque’s Bible Show at Sideshows by the Seashore [1208 Surf Ave. at W. 12th Street in Coney Island, (718) 372-5159], Dec. 3 at 9 pm. Tickets $15. For info, visit www.storybookburlesque.com. 

Swinging time: Talk about rockin’ around the Christmas tree. Aerial theater company Suspended Cirque is back for another dizzying holiday show, “Under the Tree” (pictured above), starting Dec. 22 at Galapagos Art Space in DUMBO. Christmas-themed “toys” like Barbie, a candy cane, and a tree angel come alive, swinging from chandeliers and art frames. Where else can you see circus, acrobatics, music, dance and theater in one place this season? 

“Under the Tree” at Galapagos Art Space [16 Main St. at Water Street in DUMBO, (718) 222-8500], Dec. 22 and 23 at 8 pm. Tickets $20. For info, visit www.suspendedcirque.com. 

Pirate shtick: Sick of the typical saccharine holiday fare? Then you’ll love “Dar and Matey’s ‘Christmas SpectaculARGH!’ ” Written by Robert Ross Parker of Vampire Cowboys, this new play at the Brick follows pirates Dar and Matey as they brave the North Pole, polar bears and Tiny Tim to rescue their from the torturous clutches of Old St. Nick, that fat bastard. It’s part of the theater’s “Fight Fest,” a celebration of stage combat, so you know punches will be thrown.

“Dar and Matey’s ‘Christmas SpectaculARGH!’ ” at the Brick Theater [575 Metropolitan Ave. near Lorimer Street in Williamsburg, (718) 907-6189], Dec. 4-22. Tickets $15. For info, visit www.bricktheater.com.

GOOD OL' FASHIONED HOLIDAY

Arty performances in warehouse spaces not your cup of tea? For more traditional holiday fare, look no further:

Narrow minded: Starting on Dec. 3, Narrows Community Theater presents its “Musical Christmas Ball,” a melodic extravaganza featuring more than 30 singers and dancers that brings together myriad seasonal tunes, including songs from “A Christmas Carol,” “Polar Express,” and “White Christmas.” There’s also a nativity scene accompanied by a five-part choral arrangement of “We Have Seen His Star.” And let us not forget the tap dancing battle between real and artificial Christmas trees.

NCT’s “Musical Christmas Ball” at St. Patrick’s Auditorium [9511 Fourth Ave. at 97th Street in Bay Ridge, (718) 482-3173], Dec. 3 and 4 at 8 pm, and Dec. 5 at 3 pm. Tickets $10 adults, $5 children. For info, visit www.narrowscommunitytheater.com. 

Old school: One of the biggest names in Christian vocal jazz will be singing in the holiday season on Dec. 11, as Grammy-winning Christian vocal jazz group Take 6 heads to Brooklyn College for its seasonal show, “We Wish You a Merry Christmas.” The program will feature some of the most beloved traditional and contemporary holiday songs, including many off the group’s numerous Christmas albums.

Take 6’s “We Wish You a Merry Christmas” at Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts at Brooklyn College [2900 Campus Rd. at Hillel Place in Flatbush, (718) 951-4500], Dec. 11 at 8 pm. Tickets, $35-$45 (at the door). For info, visit www.brooklyncenteronline.org.  

Capra nostra: The only thing wrong with Frank Capra’s 1946 classic, “It’s a Wonderful Life,” is that it’s the same old movie every year. But starting on Dec. 3, the Heights Players brings the heart-warming tale of George Bailey to the stage. We can already anticipate the standing ovation when he finds Zuzu’s petals in his pocket!

“It’s a Wonderful Life” at the Heights Players [26 Willow Pl. between Joralemon and State streets in Brooklyn Heights, (718) 237-2752], Dec. 3-19. Tickets, $20. For info, visit www.heightsplayers.org. 

Fa la la la la: It’s a giant Christmas sing-along — and you’re the chorus! Emerging Brooklyn vocalists will join musicians from Union Church and Brooklyn College to sing with audience members at the Union Church of Bay Ridge on Dec. 12. One lucky bidder will get the chance to conduct the Hallelujah Chorus as it performs Handel’s Christmas classic, “Messiah,” during the show. 

“Sing-It-Yourself Messiah” at Union Church of Bay Ridge [8101 Ridge Blvd. at 81st Street in Bay Ridge, (718) 745-0438], Dec. 12 at 4 pm. Tickets $15. For info, visit www.ucbr.org. 

A Yiddish Christmas: Join one of the world’s most acclaimed authorities of Yiddish song, as Zalmen Mlotek performs “100 Years of Yiddish Musical Theatre” at Kingsborough Community College. This elegant piece by the National Yiddish Theatre-Folksbiene’s artistic director celebrates the Jewish musical accent in American theater. Beginning with the origins of the Yiddish theater in the wine cellars of Romania, you will hear operetta arias, humorous vaudeville ballads, backstage renditions of Fiddler on the Roof, and more.

“Zalmen Mlotek’s 100 years of Yiddish Musical Theatre” at Kingsborough Community College [2001 Oriental Blvd. at Decatur Avenue in Manhattan Beach, (718) 368-5596], Dec. 12 at 3 pm. Tickets $25. For info, visit www.kcckpac.org.

A good man: No holiday season would be complete without Charlie Brown and the gang. Starting on Dec. 8, the Brooklyn Lyceum will present a live-action rendition of “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” featuring the familiar cast of characters — Lucy, Linus, Schroeder, Snoopy, and, of course, the football-missing Charlie. A live jazz trio plays Vince Guaraldi’s classic soundtrack.  

“A Charlie Brown Christmas” at the Brooklyn Lyceum [227 Fourth Ave. at President Street in Park Slope, (718) 857-4816], Dec. 9-19. Tickets $10. For info, visit www.brooklynlyceum.com.

LET THERE BE LIGHT

Baby it’s cold outside, but that shouldn’t stop you from checking out these annual lighting festivities:

• Borough President Markowitz will kick off the first night of Hanukkah by helping light a 29-foot menorah at Borough Hall [209 Joralemon St. at Court Street in Downtown, (718) 802-3700] on Dec. 2 at 5:30 pm.

• Half an hour later, the first candle is lit at Grand Army Plaza (Union Street between Flatbush Avenue and Prospect Park West). Hot latkes will be served.

• The borough’s “official” Christmas tree lighting — usually the best tree in town — is at Borough Hall [209 Joralemon St. at Court Street in Downtown, (718) 802-3700] on Dec. 8 at 5:30 pm.

— with Meredith Deliso and Michelle Manetti

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Your guide to a great holiday meal

The holidays are fast upon us, and we've got you covered for putting together a great feast:

Morton’s chef gives the recipe for a great holiday meal.

Brooklyn's best chefs share their tips for a great meal.

Recipes for a great pumpkin soup and brussels sprouts side.

A schedule of cooking classes to bone up on your skills.

What some of the best specialty stores in Brooklyn will provide.

What you can find at your local greenmarket.

The scoop on Baked's new cookbook, and a mouthwatering recipe pulled from its pages.

Or, if you're not in the mood to cook, Robicelli's cupcakes is a good way to go.

Dig in!

Photo by Stefano Giovannini

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Go 'Fourth'

By Ben Kochman

On July 4, the smart set stays right here in Brooklyn rather than rushing off to beaches (we’ve got those), parties (check) or hot concerts (um, this is music city, after all). Don’t believe us, here’s our full guide to this weekend (so full, in fact, that you’ll need to take Monday off).

Friday

Kicking off the holiday weekend, Prospect Park will be ablaze on Friday night, as Jamaican reggae veterans Fab 5 hit the Celebrate Brooklyn stage. The group will celebrate its 40 years on tour with an evening of lively grooves. Opening will be percussionist Junior Wedderburn’s band Uzalo, who will get the party hopping with a “cornucopia of rhythm.”

Afterwards, head down to Coney Island’s weekly Friday night fireworks over the Boardwalk. Shot from the beach, the bombs burst directly overhead, dazzling beach-front revelers. Deno’s Wonder Wheel, the Cyclone Roller Coaster and the Brooklyn Cyclones are some of the sponsors who make this festive tradition possible.

Fab 5 at the Prospect Park band shell [enter at Prospect Park West and Ninth Street, (718) 855-7882], 7:30 pm. Free; Fireworks (between W. 10th and W. 12th streets, no phone) begin at 9:30 pm. Free.

Saturday

The Brooklyn Cyclones offer fans a chance to pre-game the holiday on July 3 with fireworks display plus a BBQ tool set giveaway so you can grill in style this Fourth. Pepsi outfits the first 2,500 fans in attendance with free grilling paraphernalia before the Cyclones beat the despised Staten Island Yankees. The team celebrates Independence Day with post-game fireworks shot from the outfield. Sounds like a home run.

If you’d rather watch a film than baseball, head the Old American Can Factory, where Rooftop Films screens a selection of shorts that are sure to make foodies blush. In a collection from the Umami film festival, viewers will witness experimental interpretations of the complex power that food possesses. Umami is the Japanese word for “savory,” and these films hope to capture the elusive yet satisfying taste of a savory, earthy delight.

After stimulating your mind, quench your thirst at an after-party, where free Radeburger Pilsner will be on tap. That’s free, as in you can drink as much as you want.

Later, rewind back to 1980 at Brooklyn Bowl, where rockers Destroy Babylon will celebrate the 30th anniversary of the release of “London Calling” by performing The Clash’s famed album in its entirety.

Destroy Babylon describes its sound as “punky reggae,” which makes them a good fit to honor The Clash, who were known to experiment not only with various substances but with different musical styles.

Independence Day Celebration at MCU Park [1904 Surf Ave. at W. 17th Street in Coney Island, (718) 449-8497]. Game starts at 6 pm; Films at Old American Can Factory [232 Third St. between Sackett and Union streets in Gowanus, (718) 417-7362] begin at 8 pm. Tickets are $10; Destroy Babylon at Brooklyn Bowl [61 Wythe Ave. between 12th and 13th Street in Williamsburg, (718) 963-3369] starts at 8 pm. Tickets $5.

Sunday

It will be man-eat-dog mania when the Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest returns to Coney Island. Last year, Joey “Jaws” Chestnut set an all-time record of 68 hot dogs and buns in 10 minutes, and has apparently sent Takeru Kobayashi packing as he goes for his fourth consecutive title at the corner of Stillwell and Surf avenues. If Kobayashi doesn’t show, look out for “Notorious B.O.B” Bob Shoudt — who just recently surpassed Kobayashi for the No. 2 eater.

If you’re a betting man, head on over to Willie’s Dawgs instead and sign up for the Park Slope spot’s hot dog eating contest lottery pool, with the spoils (a $100 discount at Park Slope Veterinary Care) going to whoever correctly predicts the amount of hot dogs it will take to win Coney Island’s fabled event (last year it was 68, and everyone knows that Chestnut will eat 74 this year). The hot dog joint plans to donate all proceeds from the lottery to the Sean Casey Animal Rescue organization, which helps keep man’s best friends safe.

Later, head to Floyd Bennett Field for a Fabolous day. That’s no misprint: the Brooklyn MC will co-headline the third annual Brooklyn Music Festival at Aviator Sports. He’s joined by the infamous Shaggy, whose hit song “Wasn’t Me” lit up the charts in the late 1990s, and B.O.B, the young budding rap star from Atlanta who topped the charts in 2010 with his soulful ballad “Nothin’ on You.” Other acts include Tony Matterhorn and Lady Saw, two Jamaican dancehall deejays who plan to ignite the dance floor, and Jamaican crooner Barrington Levy.

For those looking to move, put on your Fourth of July dancing shoes and head out to Bushwick for a patriotic powwow of massive proportions. The Sunday Best crew is at it again with its self-proclaimed “best doggone backyard barbecue in Brooklyn,” at its new home at Brooklyn Fire Proof. Burgers, corn on the cob and, of course, hot dogs will be on the grill, while special DJ guest Rich Medina will keep the tunes pumping from 3 pm into the night — but ending early enough for you to catch some fireworks.

And for a good old-fashioned picnic, head to Bay Ridge for state Sen. Marty Golden’s third annual gathering. Blues Circus, the Groove, High Tides, Piranha Bros., The Ridge, and Frank Marra and His Band will provide the tunes, while hot dogs, hamburgers, sausage, drinks and ice cream will be available.

Hot Dog Eating Contest at Nathan’s Famous [between Surf and Stillwell avenues in Coney Island, (718) 946-2202], noon; Hot dog eating contest lottery at Willie’s Dawgs [351 Fifth Ave. between Fifth and Sixth streets in Park Slope, (718) 832-2941], noon. Enter for $5; Brooklyn Music Festival at Floyd Bennett Field [3159 Flatbush Ave. off the Belt Parkway in Marine Park, (718) 758-7556], noon to 10 pm. Tickets $59; Sunday Best at Brooklyn Fireproof [119 Ingraham St. at Porter Avenue in Bushwick, (718) 456-7570], 3-9 pm. Tickets $12. RSVP to rsvp@sundaybestnyc.com; Greater Bay Ridge Fourth of July Picnic [82nd Street and Shore Road, (718) 238-6044], 11 am to 9 pm. Free.

Monday

What better way to mark Independence Day than through an exhibit devoted to the Revolutionary War?

At the Harbor Defense Museum in Bay Ridge, you can explore artifacts from the period that were used to secure your freedom, including a three-pound cannon, Coehorn mortar and 18th-century Charleville musket at its permanent exhibition devoted to the war.

And if you’re looking to shake things up on your day off and throw in some variety, head on over to Galapagos Art Space in DUMBO for a night of tap-dancing bears, Kung Fu juggling, clown bands, sword swallowers, physical comedy and more. It’s all part of the Bindlestiff Open Stage Variety Show, so anything’s possible. Hope to one day be part of the act? Get a set of juggling balls and spend the day beforehand at Brooklyn Bridge Park’s Pier 1 and practice, practice, practice.

“Battle of Brooklyn, August 27, 1776” at the Harbor Defense Museum [230 Sheridan Loop at Sterling Drive in Bay Ridge, (718) 630-4349], 10 am-4 pm. Free; Bindlestiff Variety Show at Galapagos Art Space [16 Main St. at Water Street, (718) 222-8500], 8 pm. Tickets $5.

— with Stephen Goodstein and Damian Harris-Hernandez

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