GET OUT: Weekend Events Preview, December 8-10

It's Thursday, and you've got no idea what you're doing this weekend.

Patch is coming to the rescue. We've got the best bets for entertainment and things to do around Bradenton. As always, you can also browse our Events Calendar, and if you spot something we missed, be sure to add it!

Be sure to check out for what's happening around Bradenton's bar scene this weekend.

When/Where: Saturday, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. downtown Bradenton.
Why go? Winter Wonderland proves that the holidays are magic. Bradenton suddenly grows a snow mountain as 15,000 gather for a taste of the holidays. Enjoy snow sledding, hayrides, food, games, and a lighted boat parade on the Manatee River. The Bradenton Fire Department's antique fire truck departs from the south end of Old Main Street around 6 p.m. to escort Mr. and Mrs. Claus to the entrance of Westminster Courtyard, 222 Old Main St., where they will meet with children until about 8:30 p.m.
Pricing: Free!

When/Where: Saturday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. .
Why go? Manatee Village Historical Park will be decked in holiday colors and Victorian-era decor for the holiday event. Artisans and skilled craftsmen will be on hand to demonstrate chair caning, basket making, carving and scrapbooking. As a special treat an N-Gauge railroad scene will be on exhibit complete with a scratch built Tropicana layout, a Publix and a Cracker Barrel shopping center boards and a special "Old Time" street scene with Carolers, Salvation Army kettle stand, horse and reindeer feeding area, a boy with his dog washing stand and of course Mrs. Santa and Santa.

Pricing: $5. Children 12 and under are free

THE NUTCRACKER BALLET

When/Where: Friday and Saturday, 7 p.m. Matinee Performance also presented on Saturday. Neel Performing Arts Center, , 5840 26th St W.
Why go? Enjoy the magic of the holiday season as you are swept away to the Land of Sweets by Clara and the Sugar Plum Fairy. This Christmas classic is sure to put everyone in the holiday spirit.
Pricing: $20. Get tickets here or call (941)345-7495.