• The Franklin Township Historical Society’s “Christmas at the Meeting House” will take place Sunday Dec. 14th at 6:00 PM in the historic 1871 building at 6510 S. Franklin Rd. Come hear the histories behind our Christmas traditions, sing carols with an antique pump organ, enjoy a reading of “The Night Before Christmas,” plus luminaria, punch and cookies, and more. The event lasts about one hour. Attendees should park next door at the paved lot belonging to The Creek (we have permission) so as to leave the Historical Society’s small lot available for those with mobility problems. FTHS.org.
• The Indianapolis Public Library Book Sale will be held Dec. 12-16 at the Library Services Center at 2450 N. Meridian St. Adult hardbacks are $3, softbacks $1. Juvenile books are $1. There will also be DVDs, CDs, Audio books, LPs, magazines and more to purchase. Bag Day is Tuesday, Dec. 16 from noon-7 p.m. for $10 a bag. Hours are 4-7 p.m. Dec, 12 for Friend’s Night, then Saturday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday (half-price day) from noon-7 p.m.
• Santa is coming to Broad Ripple on Sunday, Dec. 7 in Wonderland Village, Guilford Ave, & Westfield Blvd. from 3-5 p.m. There will be a twilight parade from 5-6 p.m. starting at the Monon Trail and going west on Broad Ripple Ave. and back east on Westfield Blvd. ending at the fire station. There will be a tree lighting ceremony at 6 p.m. at the fire station on Westfield. There will be music, interactive children’s activities and more in the Wonderland Village.
• First Friday on Dec. 5 will be epic, with several places open for holiday shopping. The Harrison Center, 1505 N. Delaware will have its annual Winter Artisan market, as well as featured exhibits. The Arts Council will open their doors for the Tiny XIV Show with original artworks at 924 N. Pennsylvania Ave. The Stutz, 1060 N. Capitol, will have open artist studios, music, and food for purchase. 1000 Words, 3328 E. 10th St. Suite C, will have a contemporary art exhibit. The Murphy Arts Center, 1043 Virginia Ave., will have open galleries from 6-10 p.m. The Factory Arts District, 1125 E. Brookside Ave., will have open studios, including Nancy Lee’s new jewelry work “Woodland Runes” inspired by her Lithuanian heritage.
• Winterfest in Lawrence is going on through Jan. 4. Enjoy the skating rink and hot chocolate chalet every Saturday and Sunday from 3-7 p.m. at the Lawrence Civic Plaza, 5710 Lawrence Village Parkway — just off 56th St. and Post Rd.
• This time of the year can be very stressful. If you or someone you care about is having mental health difficulties, please reach out for help. Indiana has a crisis hotline — 988 — that can help connect you with professional help and guidance.
We are still collecting gifts for Gaia Works, a nonprofit that donates them to Coburn Place. Please drop them off at the office, 195 N. Shortridge Rd., Suite D. Thank you to all who have already donated!