By Jim Knippenberg
The Cincinnati Enquirer
Going out
Hanukkah party: The Jewish Community Center raises awareness, takes in donations and throws a party with its "One Candle for Tzedaka," a Hanukkah fest with a magic show, menorah lighting, music, crafts, games and food. 6:30 p.m. today, 7420 Montgomery Road, Kenwood, free but donations of new, unwrapped toys or clothing for needy children are requested (items for older teens especially needed). 761-7500.
Blue Note: A fairly new West Side tradition unfolds today when the always lively Blue Note throws its annual Christmas party, a little deal that packs 'em in. This year you get to celebrate with Dos Locos at 7 p.m. and the Menus at 10 p.m. 4520 W. Eighth St., West Price Hill. 921-8898.
Arty shopping: Time is running out on the Queen City Art Club's annual Winter Exhibit and Sale. Known as a great shopping spot, it's work in a wide variety of styles by 36 local artists. 1 p.m. today, Sharon Woods Heritage Village and Museum, 11450 Lebanon Road, Sharonville. $7, $6 seniors, $5 ages 5-12, 4 and under free. 563-4513.
Holiday treats
Country Christmas: The funky little Rabbit Hash General Store plays up its folksy image with a Christmas party full of homespun events designed to celebrate the season. There's also music from the Side Cars and Cincinnati Dancing Pigs. 3 p.m. today, 10021 Lower River Road, Rabbit Hash, free. (859) 586-7744.
On the canal: The quaint and historic canal town of Metamora fluffs up for the season with its annual Christmas Walk. More than 50 shops - lots of crafty and one-of-a-kind items here - will be open for shoppers. There are also carolers, Santa, food, drink and, come nightfall, candlelit walkways. 10 a.m. today, streets of Metamora, free. (765) 647-2109.
See the sights: When it's too cold for the outdoor festivities, try staying in your car and driving through them. Hamilton County Park District and its annual Holliday in Lights are up and running at Sharon Woods - thousands of lights and sculpted displays you can see without leaving the comfort of your car's heater. 6 p.m. today and daily through Jan. 3, Sharon Woods, 11450 Lebanon Road, Sharonville. $10 per car, $45 per passenger van 15 seats or larger. 563-4513.
Planning ahead
24 hours out: Multiple Cammy winner Steve Schmidt and his Organ Trio - organ, drums, sax - throws the annual Christmas Spectacular, a venerable Cincinnati tradition full of jazzy Christmas music. Schmidt will also be selling - and autographing - his Merry Christmas Baby CD. This year's show features vocalist Bill Caffie, who used to sing with Count Basie. 9 p.m. Monday, The Comet, 4579 Hamilton Avenue, Northside, free. 541-8900.
48 hours out: Cincinnati favorites The Sonny Moorman Group, another multiple Cammy winner, take over the stage at Burbank's for a night full of bluesy rock sets. 8 p.m. Tuesday, Burbank's, 11167 Dowlin Drive, Sharonville, no cover. 771-1440.
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E-mail: jknippenberg@enquirer.com; fax 768-8330
