Celebrate TubaChristmas at E.J. Thomas Hall
Nothing says the holidays in Akron more than TubaChristmas. Our fair city hosts one of the largest in the country, with hundreds of festively decorated low brass instruments packing the stage at E.J. Thomas Hall, led by the impossibly appropriately named Tucker Jolly. Shows are at noon and 2:30 p.m.; get there early to make sure you nab a seat.
Get absurd questions answered
So what IS the airspeed velocity of an unladen swallow? And does it really matter if it’s African or European? You may find out as John Cleese himself hosts a screening of Monty Python and the Holy Grail and answers questions afterward (“Absurd and/or ridiculous questions only are requested, please”), at 7:30 p.m. at the Akron Civic Theatre, 182 S. Main St. Tickets are $79-$95 at www.akroncivic.com.
Check out Woodchoppers Ball
The Kent Stage’s annual ode to fingerstyle guitar, the Woodchoppers Ball, begins at 7 p.m. at 175 E. Main St., Kent. On the bill are Muriel Anderson, Mark Sganga, the Night Travelers, Helen Avakian & Dave Irwin, Michael Kelsey, Jack Wilson, Rolly Brown, Atom Lax and Brian Henke. Tickets are $34 at 330-677-5005, www.thekentstage.com.
Don an ugly sweater in Kent
Also in Kent, Santa’s Tavern Trek runs from 6 to 10 p.m. at 10 bars and restaurants around downtown. A pass is $10 at www.mainstreetkent.org/santas-tavern-trek/4580641525. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to Family & Community Services. There’s also an Ugly Sweater Contest for those so inclined.
Party at the Jingle Bell Bash
If you’d rather party in Akron, Lock 3’s Jingle Bell Bash starts at 6 p.m., benefiting Ronald McDonald House of Akron. Admission is $10 at the door and buys two raffle tickets, one drink ticket and food. There will be coffee, hot chocolate, Thirsty Dog’s Christmas Ale, soda, holiday cookies and hors d’oeuvres, and free skating and Polar Putt-Putt. www.lock3live.com.
Shop at the Akron Press Club
Do some Christmas shopping at the Akron Press Club Book Sale, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the second floor of the Akron General Health & Wellness Center, 4125 Medina Road in the Montrose area. And it’s not just books; CDs, DVDs and other items are also available. Proceeds benefit scholarships.