HOLIDAY TOUR OF THE LAURIER HOUSE
What better way to come in from the cold than on a tour of a national historic site? For an exclusive weekend, the building that was once the home of William Lyon Mackenzie King and Sir Wilfred Laurier is open for an intimate, Christmas candlelight tour. Tours are led by actors playing King’s domestic staff, all of whom are more than willing to share several secret stories about the historic dwelling. Thursday, Dec. 16 at 6 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 18 at 7 p.m. $9.80, seniors $8.40, youth $4.90. Laurier House, 355 Laurier Ave. E., www.pc.gc.ca/lhn-nhs/on/laurier/index.aspx.
CHRISTMAS MOVIES AT THE MAYFAIR
The Mayfair is known for screening an eclectic variety of films and its Christmas choices fit the bill. A fan of yuletide slasher films? Then “Silent Night, Deadly Night” on Friday is perfect for you. A little more family appropriate is the hilarious classic “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation,” which plays on Saturday and Sunday. Also playing Saturday night is “The Room,” which has gained a cult following for being the worst film in movie history. Friday, Dec. 17 to Sunday, Dec. 19, various times. $6 members, $10 non-members, $7 seniors, $5 children. The Mayfair Theatre, 1074 Bank St., www.mayfairtheatre.ca.
IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE, THE RADIO SHOW VERSION
This weekend is the last time to enjoy this adaptation of the Frank Capra classic. The show brings to life the tale of a frustrated businessman trying to rediscover the value of his own life. Appropriate for the entire family, this promises the audience a night of entertainment that will keep them smiling through the holiday season. Thursday, Dec. 16 to Saturday, Dec. 18 at 7 p.m., Saturday matinee at 2 p.m. $38, seniors $33, students $23. The Gladstone Theatre, 910 Gladstone Ave., www.thegladstone.ca.
BROKEN SOCIAL SCENE
Fans of indie music are in for a treat this weekend as this musical collective comes to Ottawa for two performances at the intimate Bronson Centre. Featuring the talents of a variety of Canadian artists, the show is sure to be popular among urban hipsters and those looking to expand their musical horizons. Get your tickets fast – the Thursday night show has already sold out! Friday, Dec. 17 at 7 p.m. $41. Bronson Centre, 211 Bronson Ave., www.brokensocialscene.ca.
HANDS DOWN YOUR PANTS VINTAGE CLOTHING AND STREETWEAR SALE (FREE!)
For those looking for cheap deals on last minute gifts, this sale will be a Christmas miracle. Attendees at this fifth annual sale can shop to the beats of Matt Tamblyn and bring in a non-perishable food item to receive a discount off their purchases. Friday, Dec. 17 from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. Babylon Nightclub, 317 Bank St., www.babylonclub.ca.
AB POETRY SERIES
This weekend’s readings showcase the work of Gregory Betts and Jeanette Lynes. Both Canadian poets have published several poetry collections and will provide an evening of experimental literary entertainment. The evening also includes a holiday party and the chance to win many great door prizes. Saturday, Dec. 18 from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. $7, students $5. Mercury Lounge, 56 ByWard Market Square, www.abseries.org.
STUART MCLEAN: A VINYL CAFÉ CHRISTMAS
Start a new holiday tradition with one of Canada’s most beloved storytellers. In an evening that combines storytelling and a showcasing of Canadian musical talent, McLean will tell two new tales about his character Dave’s life at the Vinyl Café. This year’s musical accompanists are East Coast Music Award winners Jill Barber and Matt Anderson. Saturday, Dec. 18 at 7:30 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 19 at 2:30 p.m. $32.69 to $52.69. Southam Hall, National Arts Centre, 53 Elgin St., www.nac-cna.ca.