5 things to do in Westmoreland: Dec. 13-15

It’s beginning to look a lot like … well, a holiday season in full swing.

From celebrations of historical traditions, to dance and music, to shopping and helping others, opportunities abound to enjoy oneself and reach out in the spirit of the season.

Christmas through the centuries

Historic Hanna’s Town, 809 Forbes Trail Road, Greensburg, will hold the program “Three Centuries of Christmas in America,” sharing how the nation’s traditions have evolved.

Tours are set for 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Dec. 14.

Costumed guides will lead guests through buildings from the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries adorned in period correct decorations and share stories of Christmases past.

Learn about the origins of the Christmas tree, the tradition of mailing greeting cards, the evolution of Santa Claus and more.

Tickets are $12 and reservations are required.

Details: 724-836-1800, ext. 210

Dance of the magical toys

The Westmoreland Symphony Orchestra and the Laurel Ballet Company will again take audiences on a magical, musical trip to the land of the Sugarplum Fairy, waltzing snowflakes and enchanted toys with “The Nutcracker Ballet.”

The full orchestra will perform Tchaikovsky’s score at The Palace Theatre, 21 W. Otterman St., Greensburg, as part of an event that has become tradition for many families as they celebrate Christmas.

Performances are at 2 and 7 p.m. Dec. 14 and 2 p.m. Dec. 15.

Tickets range from $14 to $39.

Details: 724-836-8000 or thepalacetheatre.org

Raise a glass of cheer

The Westmoreland Museum of American Art, 221 N. Main St., Greensburg, will hold Art on Tap: Holiday Cheer, from 5 to 8 p.m. Dec. 13.

Guests are invited to kick off the 12 days of Christmas with performances from the Westmoreland Ballet Company and Heavenly Biscuits.

Relax and enjoy a hot cider bar and holiday cookies, and don’t forget to don that ugly sweater for a chance to win a prize. Also “on tap” are an outdoor fire pit and lounge (weather permitting) and museum scavenger hunt.

Tickets are $15.

Details: 888-718-4253 or showclix.com

Sweet shopping Sunday

For more than half a century, Greensburg merchants have been holding an annual open house and customer appreciation event each holiday season.

This year’s event will be from noon to 5 p.m. on Dec. 15, with numerous shopkeepers opening on a day when their businesses typically are closed.

It’s one more opportunity for last minute Christmas shopping, and some merchants plan to offer free gift wrapping or refreshments. Lapels A Fine Men’s Clothier owner Kevin Miscik is chairing the event.

Details: 724-853-7145

The sounds of Christmas

The Jeannette Community Band will hold its 32nd annual Christmas Concert at 7 p.m. Dec. 15 at the Jeannette American Legion, 109 S. 5th St.

The free, family-friendly event will feature some traditional holiday music, and a special visitor is expected to attend.

Details: jcbweb.com