This particular weekend right before Christmas is always inevitably a busy one. I still have a few (okay, more than a few) presents to check off the list, meal preparations to make, decorations to be hung, preparations for house guests....oh and then the wrapping and hiding and the cookie baking and updating our holiday music playlist. Sigh...The list goes on for so many of us moms! The end goal for me is to stay calm with a smile on my face while creating happy memories for the kids. The trick is to break the work up with some fun activities. There are a few places to get that photo with Santa, see the Nutcracker, or even have the kids make a holiday craft. This week we covered places to visit with Santa in Hartford and Fairfield Counties. This weekend in particular the Vienna Boys Choir Holiday Concert is at the Bushnell. There is also a Chanuka Fever Concert in West Hartford. If, like me, you'd like to take a break and go out to dinner a night or two, check out our listing of great restaurant options in Litchfield County. Some schools finish up this Friday and some not until next. For those in Fairfield County we've rounded up fun activities for the kids over the holiday break. We love our Facebook and twitter friends and will be doing some give aways next week so please sign up to like us. Take a deep breathe and dive in. Make the most of this Merry Holiday season!

There are so many fun events happening in preparation to celebrate the holidays but probably the one most children are excited about (well other than getting presents of course) is the chance to meet Santa. They have their letters ready and can’t wait to meet the man in red to share their wish lists. We all know about the usual mall sightings but here is a list of other places you and your child can also visit with Santa Claus.

Besides attending one of the following events, this weekend is a good time to cut down your own Christmas tree. We have some great family options for you in Hartford, Fairfield and Litchfield Counties. The Nutcracker is a classic that we try not to miss each year. We've rounded up shows for you all over the area. Bergdorf's holiday windows in NYC can't be beat, however you don't have to drive into the city to get a visual thrill. Check out these Holiday Window Strolls in Fairfield County. If you are in Hartford County we've listed some great events over the next couple of weeks. Our post this week on dining options on 12/25 in Fairfield County reminds me of the hilarious Chinese restaurant scene in one of my all time favorite holiday movies 'A Christmas Story'. All of that being said, enjoy the weekend with the following great list of events we've compiled. Make a paracord bracelet, go on a family art adventure or family hike, ride a vintage train or attend a reindeer festival. Have fun making happy memories with your kids!

Remember to like us on Facebook, Twitter and Google Plus! Please share the love and tell your friends about us. We are currently compiling summer camps for our CT summer camp guide. Email me with recommendations or listings. Thanks!!