5 Things You Need to Know Today: Dec. 6

Here is a list of 5 things you need to know today:

1. Showers: According to the National Weather Service, today will be filled with periods of rain and a high near 60 degrees. There will be a south wind around 11 mph. Tonight the rain will continue with a low around 51 degrees and a southwest wind around 8 mph.

2. Nutcracker: This weekend the Company of Dance Arts (CODA), enthusiastically returns to the stage to present their latest production of The Nutcracker at the Count Basie Theatre. This holiday classic has turned into a family tradition for the Laughinghouse family of Fair Haven! Three of the Laughinghouse sisters have been performing in CODA’s Nutcracker for many years. Click to see other local students who will be performing in the show and how to get tickets.

3. Tis the Season: Both Rumson and Fair Haven hosted their annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremonies this past weekend. Click to see photos from Fair Haven. Click to see photos from Rumson. Also, add photos of your own!

4. Deck the Halls: Upload a photo or video of your holiday lights and Patch could pay your electric bill or donate $100,000 to your schools. Between Dec. 8 and Dec. 26, residents of Patch towns are encouraged to post photos and videos of their “decked out” houses to our site as part of a national contest. Click for more details!

5. Book Signing: In honor of Jewish Book Month, author/dancer Leanore Friedland Ickstadt will speak about her new book "Dancing Out of Germany; A bicultural reflection." at Congregation B'nai Israel in Rumson. The author program will include a light lunch and book signing.