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K is for Kwanzaa, a time for “first fruit” It may be educational, but it’s also a hoot Spend time with family, learn about the past And create new friendships destined to last Klezmer Nutcracker The Nutcracker: it’s not just for Christians anymore. Queensborough Community College Performing Arts Center introduces “A Klezmer Nutcracker,” a ballet blending the triumphant work of Tchaikovsky with the spirited Klezmer arrangement of Shirim. The performance weaves the story of Chanukah into a humorous, heart-warming adventure. Organizers describe it as a perfect opportunity to introduce children of all ages to the traditions and culture of the Jewish people. “Our community represents an extremely diverse population,” said Susan Agin, managing director. The event will take place Sunday, Nov. 27, at 2 p.m. on the college’s campus in Bayside. Tickets are $10. Call (718) 631-6311. Kwanzaa Celebrated from Dec. 26 to Jan. 1, Kwanzaa represents the first harvesting season in ancient Africa and translated from Swahili, means “first fruits.” The holiday, which is commemorated with a number of events scheduled throughout the borough, includes a pre-Kwanzaa showcase at the Central Library in Jamaica, at 89-11 Merrick Blvd. and will feature African culture and fashion Dec. 10 at 2 p.m. In addition, the 21st annual Kwanzaa celebration will take place at the Langston Hughes Library, Florence E. Smith Community Center at 102-19 34th Ave. in Corona Dec. 11 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. The free event includes crafts, folktales and live entertainment. At home, most African Americans who celebrate the holiday use it as a time to reaffirm friendships, to give thanks to God, to learn from the past and celebrate all of the good that exists in the world. Decorations for the holiday include the colors black, red and green and during the weeklong celebration, children receive gifts that include books about African values and ancient culture, as well as an African heritage symbol that is meant to reaffirm and reinforce the African commitment to tradition and history. King Manor Fun The Historic King Manor Museum in Jamaica is rekindling the spirit of Christmas past at its Holiday Shop. Until the end of December, the shop will feature reasonably priced, unique gifts for the family, friends, co-workers, children and the young at heart. Handmade wooden toys, old-fashioned games and puzzles, finger and hand puppets sit on shelves along with unusual ornaments, books and bookmarks, fine teas and needlework kits all waiting to be put under your Christmas tree. All purchases help support the museum’s history education programs. The Holiday Shop will be open during regular museum hours: Thursday and Friday noon to 2 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 1 to 5 p.m. For more information call (718) 206-0545 Knickknacks At Our Lady For 16 years Our Lady of Mercy Church’s annual Holiday Shoppe fundraiser has been providing gifts for Queens shoppers and will be coming back with more. On Dec.1, the church is offering a sneak peak at the gifts from 7-9 p.m. for a $5 admission charge. The church encourages shoppers to come browse the gifts and nosh on free cake and coffee. On Dec. 2 & 3, the real shopping begins at noon and ends at 8:30 p.m. Friday and 6 p.m. Saturday. Gifts galore will be present, as you pick and choose the perfect gift for family and friends from the vast selection. And if you happen to work up an appetite in the process, lunch, dinner and refreshments will be sold. The entrance to the lower church hall is located on Juno Street between 70th and 71st Avenues in Forest Hills. For more information go to www.mercyhills.org. Knitting For Fun Isn’t it just one of the most picturesque holiday images? A grandmother rocking back and forth in a chair with a pair of needles in her hand happily knitting away beside the fireplace as the snow falls outside. A handmade scarf, sweater or throw is a gift that can come with an exceptional amount of added value to someone special, as they see the time and work that you put in just to knit them something fuzzy and warm. |
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