Holiday horns
Experience a holiday tradition for the whole family when the Illinois Brass Band, a 30-member brass ensemble, performs its “Holiday Classics” program, which will include a mix of traditional carols and jazzy updates of Christmas favorites. 2 p.m. Dec. 15. $12; $6 for students and children under 18. (There’s a $1 surcharge for tickets purchased at the box office; $1.50 online.) Cutting Hall, 150 E. Wood St., Palatine. 847-202-5222 or illinoisbrassband.org
Condensed “Carol”
More Top Picks Best Gifts For Toddlers
What happens when you perform only the best parts of a really long holiday play? You get “A Christmas Carol in 40 Minutes.” Ed Dzialo brings Dickens’ characters to life in this production that’s suitable for all ages. 2 p.m. Dec. 15 at the Wheaton Public Library. Free tickets at the checkout counter on a first-come, first-served basis. 225 N. Cross St., Wheaton. 630-868-7516 or wheatonlibrary.org
Hub for the holidays
If you haven’t had a chance You still have time to stop by the Holiday Hub. This cozy winter cottage at Block Thirty Seven offers a variety of free family-friendly events, including a story corner, arts and crafts, complimentary hot beverages and pop-up programs. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sundays through Dec. 24. Block Thirty Seven (Pedway level), 108 N. State St. 312-782-9160 or loopchicago.com/holidays
Twitter @jenweigel