Community Calendar

All aboard for a magical holiday journey! Experience The Polar Express on the big screen at the Flagstar Strand Theatre — the heartwarming film based on Chris Van Allsburg’s beloved children’s book.

Follow a young boy’s extraordinary train ride to the North Pole, where he learns that the spirit of Christmas never fades for those who truly believe. With stunning animation, an inspiring message, and holiday cheer for the whole family, this screening is the perfect way to kick off the season.

This family-friendly movie starts at 3:00 p.m. Guests under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Tickets: $5

Tickets can be purchased at the box office in person or by phone to avoid online fees.
Located in the heart of downtown Pontiac, the Flagstar Strand Theatre is more than just a historic stage—it’s a cornerstone of the community, surrounded by walkable dining, galleries, and shops. With additional spaces like the intimate Second @ Strand and elegant event rooms, it continues to shine as a hub for performances, celebrations, and cultural connection.

Charlene's Theatre Bar will be open for ticketholders to buy soft drinks and mocktails (or something more wicked for ages 21+)

For more information visit:
info@flagstarstrand.com
Box Office Regular Hours
Thurs, Fri: 12p - 5p
2 hours prior to events

Instagram @flagstarstrand
Facebook @FlagstarStrand
tiktok.com/@flagstarstrandtheatre
https://www.youtube.com/@flagstarstrandtheatre

12 N. Saginaw St, Pontiac, MI 48342
https://www.flagstarstrand.com/
248-309- 6445

boxoffice@flagstarstrand.com.
Box Office hours: M/W/F 12p-5p.

While the Carpenters are known for over a dozen chart-topping hits and memorable songs of the 70s, they also won over fans with their Christmas celebrations. Singer and playwright Lisa Rock and her six-piece band are dedicated to re-creating the true sound and unforgettable Christmas songs of the Carpenters in a holiday concert, A Carpenters' Christmas. Based on the music from the Carpenters' two holiday albums and Christmas variety shows, A Carpenters' Christmas will feature “Merry Christmas Darling” and the jazzy “Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town." It's a holiday concert that is sure to spread joy and cheer during the holiday season!

🎁 Join us for “The Gifts of Christmas!” 🎶
Celebrate the season with the Cereal City Concert Band on Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, at 3:00 PM at the Pennfield Performing Arts Center (8587 Pennfield Rd, Battle Creek).
Enjoy an afternoon of joyful music — from folk songs and festive favorites to holiday classics like Greensleeves, C’est Noël, and of course, Sleigh Ride! 🎄
🎟️ Tickets:
Adults $10 | Students/Seniors/Veterans $5 | Kids 5 & under free
Get tickets at the door, online at cerealcityconcertband.org/schedule, or here https://bit.ly/3WR4f3L

🎁 Bring a new, unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots and join in our 50/50 and poinsettia raffles!
Now in its 39th season, the Cereal City Concert Band welcomes Dr. Doris Doyon as our new conductor. Share the spirit of the season with us! ❤️

Spend some time with the family in this delightful ArtRat tradition ...
Celebrate the holidays with the Schrock Brothers (Americana roots/blues/folk/rock sweetened with three-part harmonies)!

Storytime with Programs Director, Janice Wilks! Every Wednesday from 10:30am – 11:30am Storytime will be followed by activities designed for children with developmental differences. We will never tell your child to hush or stop wiggling. Physically-distanced with stringent health and safety protocols being followed. Takes place at our office: 2505 Ardmore St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506. Every family leaves with a free book and a snack! If you plan on attending, please RSVP with the form below so we can make sure there’s enough goodies to go around.

In this colorful and comedic Youth Theatre play, two con artists arrive in town with a daring plan to swindle a vain Emperor who just can’t get enough of his own wardrobe. With a cast of hilariously over-the-top royal advisors and a fashion show for the ages, The Emperor’s New Clothes is a laugh-out-loud tale of vanity, honesty, and the courage to speak the truth.

Directed by Nick Pellegrino IV
By Greg Atkins

Celebrate the season with a magical Santa Visit before heading out to explore the enchanted trails of Aurora! Plus, enjoy delicious bites from D&W’s Street Eatery and The Little Donut Factory.

Available dates include December 12th, 14th, and 21st! Tickets are per person and include the trail walk. Limited availability, so be sure to reserve your spot soon at www.glenloretrails.com

THE VELVETEEN RABBIT live stage play, presented at The Stage at the Corner in Muskegon by the Actors Workshop of West Michigan. A 90 minute family friendly holiday production in downtown Muskegon (280 W Muskegon Avenue), with live music performed by the company and pre-show holiday carols by members of the Muskegon Chamber Choir. The love of a Boy and his Velveteen Rabbit becomes Real and ageless. Dec 12th, 13th, 19th and 20th at 7:00 pm, matinees Dec 13th and 14th at 1:00 pm. Adaptation by Scott Davidson, produced by special arrangement with Pioneer Drama Services, Englewood CO.

In this colorful and comedic Youth Theatre play, two con artists arrive in town with a daring plan to swindle a vain Emperor who just can’t get enough of his own wardrobe. With a cast of hilariously over-the-top royal advisors and a fashion show for the ages, The Emperor’s New Clothes is a laugh-out-loud tale of vanity, honesty, and the courage to speak the truth.

Directed by Nick Pellegrino IV
By Greg Atkins

Motawi Tileworks will host its third annual Winter Market event on Saturday, December 13 from 10 am to 5 pm. All events are drop in; no registration required.

Details:
Santa and Mrs. Claus will be here from 10 am - noon for photo ops.
Nawal Motawi will be signing tiles from 1 to 3 pm.
Quick 20-minute factory tours will take place at 10:30 am and 12:30 pm.
Motawi artisans will have their own work for sale and on display. Shop locally made ceramics, jewelry, crafts, and more.
Krampuslauf from 2:30 to 3 pm: Get creative and strut your stuff! Meet by the bonfire on the Motawi front lawn in your best Krampus costume. The 10 best costumes will win our 6x6 Krampus tile in a special colorway!