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VHS INSTRUMENTAL HOLIDAY CONCERT -- Featuring the Vintage High School Jazz Ensemble, Orchestra and Advanced Band. Concert begins at 7:30 p.m. at the District Auditorium, 2425 Jefferson St., Napa. $7 at the door or in advance at 299-2520.

CYBERMILL OPEN HOUSE -- CyberMill Technology Center, 3299 Claremont Way, Napa, the one and only cutting edge educational technology program in Napa, will be hosting a holiday open house from 3 to 6 p.m. Student members will be on hand to give tours; there will be exhibits of digital art, photography, flash animation and movies produced by members along with refreshments. Info, www.cybermill.org, or 258-8884.

DANCE LESSONS -- Come to DG's at 8 p.m. sharp as Angeline teaches Meringue, Cha-Chas, Salsas, West Coast Swing, Line dancing and many more. Lesson $10 additional cover may apply for live music.

'SKIN OF OUR TEETH' -- This apocalyptic comedy by Thornton Wilder delivers a hilarious dose of scrutiny into the human experience. Dec. 8 and 10 at 7 p.m. in Dauphinee Chapel on the Pacific Union College Campus. Tickets are available at the door and are $10. Info, 965-6303.

'GET SMART' -- Vintage High School presents this play based on the Mel Brooks comedy series, "Get Smart." As usual, the secret agents in this spoof of Cold War spies are out to save the world. Dec. 8, 9 and 10, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets available at the door, adults $7, students and children $5. $1 discount with canned food donation.

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'A CHRISTMAS CAROL' -- Napa Valley Repertory Theatre presents Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol," adapted by Domenique Lozano and directed by Jon Tracy, Dec. 9 through 24, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. Dec. 21 and 22 at 7:30 p.m. in the newly-renovated Napa Valley District Auditorium, 2475 Jefferson St., Napa. $15-$28, $10 for students and military with ID, $2 discount for senior citizens. Info, (800) 557-NVRT or www.naparep.com.

VICHY BOOK FAIR -- Vichy Elementary School will host a Scholastic book fair at the Vichy Library from Dec. 9 through 15. All are welcome to this medieval-themed fair. On Dec. 10 from noon to 4 p.m., every student who brings a grandparent or special relative to shop at the fair will receive a prize. Special guest will be Clifford the Big Red Dog. Refreshments and gift-wrapping will be complimentary. At 3261 Vichy Ave., Napa. Info, 253-3544.

LEVI LLOYD & THE 501 BLUES BAND -- Levi & the 501's always put on a great show providing blues and covers with '70s and '80s style R&B. At DG's, 530 Main St., Napa, 9 p.m., $5. No cover with donation of an unwrapped toy valued at $15.

IRISH MUSIC -- Suppertime in Napa will present live Irish music with John Kelly and "Green Grass," every Friday night from 6 to 8 p.m. Come by for a "large shot of Irish with a twist of Bluegrass." At Suppertime, 2977 Solano Ave., Napa. Info, 224-3097 or www.suppertimenapa.com.

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HOLIDAY CANDLELIGHT TOUR -- Enjoy period homes decorated for the holidays, music, food and wine and an antique car display at the Napa County Landmarks' 17th annual Holiday CandleLight Tour from 3 to 8 p.m. in Napa's historic St. John's District. $35 tickets available at Casey's Hallmark Shop in the Bel Aire Plaza; Napa Valley Emporium in the Napa Town Center; and Whiting Nursery at 738 Main St., St. Helena.

MUSIC IN THE GALLERY -- Enjoy fine art and memorable melodies performed by the Tarabinis, featuring Yancie Taylor on vibraphone and Terry Hilliard, just inducted into San Francisco's "Legends of Jazz," on bass. The Tarabinis bring back the classic jazz genre of George Shearing, Art Van Damme Quintets, Duke Ellington and Quincy Jones. Gloria Tarabini sings the songs of Ella Fitzgerald, June Christy and others from the 1940s, '50s and '60s. From 1 to 3 p.m. at the Napa Valley Museum, 55 Presidents Circle, Veterans Home, Yountville. Info, 944-0500.

WINTER FAIR -- Bring the kids to this fun event featuring handmade dolls, toys, jewelry, crafts, photos, baked goods and more. Marionette performance also. From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Barn, 4294 Big Ranch Road, Napa. Proceeds go towards local schools. Info, 258-9254.

PIONEER CHRISTMAS -- Visitors can gather around the woodstove to make holiday ornaments and wreaths, enjoy free refreshments and listen to old-time Christmas carols. Visitors can also write holiday greetings using quill pens and Bale Mill stationary. At the Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. $5 adults, $3 children, under 4 free. Info, 942-4575.

BOOK SIGNING -- Dona Bakker, author of "Run of the Mill, A True Life, Napa Valley Adventure," will be signing books at the Pioneer Christmas celebration at the Old Bale Mill from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. "Run of the Mill" is a poignant memoir of growing up at the Old Bale Mill in the 1960s.

CAROLYN PARR NATURE CENTER OPEN HOUSE -- Get in the holiday spirit, by making a fresh wreath or swag, ornaments from natural or recycled materials and outdoor decor for the birds. Enjoy hot apple cider and cookies. At Westwood Hills Park, Browns Valley Road, Napa. Free, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Info, 255-6465.

MODEL RAILROAD OPEN HOUSE -- The Napa Valley Model Railroaders will host a holiday train festival in conjunction with Santa's Helper Craft Faire at Napa Expo. Dec. 10, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Dec. 11, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Trains will be running on a 2000 square foot HO Gauge Layout. Info, www.nvmrc.org or 253-8428.

ALVON JOHNSON & THE ALLSTARS -- Winner of the 2005 West Coast Blues Hall of Fame Guitar Player of the Year Award, Alvon is a former member of the Rock and Roll Hall of fame vocal group, the Coasters. His rich voice helps recreate all of the wonderful and familiar songs like, "Charlie Brown," "Yakety Yak," and "Poison." At DG's, 530 Main St., Napa, 9 p.m., $7.

FAUX GINGERBREAD HOUSE WORKSHOP -- Create a faux gingerbread house using graham crackers, icing and candy decorations. Five sessions will be offered at the McPherson Elementary School cafeteria, 2670 Yajome St., from 9:30 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. For ages 4 and up accompanied by an adult. $5 includes all materials. Registration required, 253-0376, ext. 101.

CLINE CELLARS BOOK SIGNING -- Bob Cannard and author Tom Whitworth will be signing copies of Robert H. Cannard, Sonoma's "Last Pioneer," a memoir of one of Sonoma Valley's most colorful residents at this reception and book signing event at the California Missions Museum at Cline Cellars. Dec. 10 and 11, 1 to 4 p.m.

CHRISTMAS CONCERT -- From the stunning "Gloria" by John Rutter, featuring chorale, brass and organ, to sing-along carol favorites, the annual Christmas concert of the Pacific Union College musical ensembles promises to burst with holiday richness and variety. This free concert will take place in the PUC church in Angwin at 4 p.m. Info, 965-6201.

SIP, SHOP & SEE SANTA -- The St. Helena Chamber is teaming up with local merchants, restaurants, wineries and businesses in downtown St. Helena for the annual Hometown Holiday Celebration. Cameo Cinema will show two complimentary movies throughout the day, portraits will be available at Alan's Framing and Photography, face painting, carolers, hot chocolate and raffle prizes. Info, www.sthelena.com.

HOLIDAY OPEN STUDIO & PET EVENT -- This holiday open house featuring fine art gifts and pet photography will benefit Greyhound rescue awareness. At the M. Mitcavish Fine Art and Glass Studio, 68 Coombs St., Napa, Dec. 10 and 11 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Info, 226-3613.

GOSPEL CONCERT -- The Sonoma Community Center presents a concert of gospel music featuring the Wings of Glory Community Gospel Choir inside historic Andrews Hall at the Sonoma Community Center, 276 E. Napa St. in Sonoma at 6 p.m. Tickets at the door are $10.

OPERA PICCOLA CAROLERS -- Visit Napa Premium Outlets on Dec. 10 and 17 from 1 to 3 p.m. and enjoy the lively and familiar holiday music of the Opera Piccola Carolers. These professional singers stroll throughout the center in Dickens-style costumes. This is a project of Opera Piccola.

OPEN STUDIO & POTTERY SALE -- At Karen Winograde Pottery, Dec. 10 and 11, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., 2394 Big Ranch Road, Napa. Info, 255-5495.

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CLASSIC FAMILY HOLIDAY CONCERT -- Featured guest musicians at the Napa Valley Music Associates holiday concert will be lyric soprano Anna Combs with accompanist Michael McCarty, violinist Kineko Okumura Barbini and pianist Brenda Tom. At the Churchill Manor B&B, 485 Brown St., Napa at 3 p.m. Adults, $20, seniors $15, students 18 and under free. Info, 252-8671.

HANUKKAH CARNIVAL -- Temple Beth Sholom presents this carnival featuring games and prizes, crafts tables, featuring, menorah making and dreidel games. Children's author H.B. Homzie will be performing an original puppet show. Sandi Perlman, owner of the Napa Valley Emporium, will be selling Hanukkah gifts, such as unique menorahs and candles and tasty treats, like chocolate gelt. Noon to 2 p.m., at Congregation Beth Sholom. Info, 253-7305.

MAGICAL MOONSHINE THEATER -- Circus lovers need go no further than Yountville for their circus thrills. Magical Moonshine Theatre presents Cirque du Cafe, an original tabletop circus where salt shakers take to the trapeze, napkins high dive into latte bowls and wine bottle magicians perform feats of mystery. Steve Ventrello will play French musette accordion tunes during the acts. Performances will be at 5 p.m. at Wine Garden Restaurant, 6476 Washington St., Yountville. $20. Tickets, 945-1002, ext. 1, info, www.magicalmoonshine.org/blueinvite.htm.

GIFT SALE -- Shop locally among artisans and specialty vendors, make merry with festive eats and drinks and enjoy fabulous finds at friendly prices. The Welti Wellness House Holiday Gift Sale will Benefit the Napa Food Bank. Donate four canned goods for a chance to win great prizes. Noon to 6 p.m., sponsored by Amanda's Massage & Bodycare, Skin Solutions Napa Valley and Napa Valley Yoga. 1834 First St.

ALL-STARS -- This New Orleans style jazz ensemble is led by Clint Baker with Leon Oakley on trumpet, Robert Young (reeds) Jim Klippert (trombone) Montey Reyes (guitar/banjo) and Bill Reinhart on bass. At the Lodge, 2840 Soscol Ave., Napa, 1 to 5 p.m. Large dance floor, refreshments available. Presented by the Napa Valley Dixieland Jazz Society, $6 members, $10 general. Info, 226-5285.

SENIOR CITIZENS POTLUCK -- For those 50 and older who would like to dine with others. Families welcome. Bring either a starch, vegetable, salad, dessert or bread and your own table service. 1 p.m. at the Napa Senior Center, 1500 Jefferson St., Napa. RSVP, 226-6317.

CARILLON CHOIR & BELL ENSEMBLE -- Visit Napa Premium Outlets Courtyard Cafes at 1 p.m. and enjoy holiday compositions performed by the First Presbyterian Church Carillon Choir and Bell Ensemble conducted by Mark Osten.

HISTORICAL SOCIETY -- Napa County Historical Society's December program and holiday social will begin at 2:15 p.m. at the Napa City/Co. Library. Enjoy a presentation by Dona Stanley Bakker, writer of "Run of the Mill," about her childhood living at the Bale Mill. Publications relating to local history will be available for sale during the social hour which follows. Public welcome, no charge, call 224-1739 for more info.

HOLIDAY GALA -- Napa Valley supporters of congressman Mike Thompson will host their annual Napa holiday gala featuring a bountiful buffet, sweets, fine wines, live music and silent auction. At the Silverado Resort, 1600 Atlas Peak Road, Napa. From 5 to 7:30 p.m. $65 per person. Reservations and info, 226-8989.

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JAMMIN' AT JESSELS -- This unique event will feature a musical performance by Jennifer Youngdahl plus eight additional vocalists, musicians and poets. Spelletich Cellars will pour their wines. Dinner and wine tasting begin at 7, music begins at 7:30 p.m. Cost is $25. At Jessel Gallery, 1019 Atlas Peak Road in Napa. Info and reservations, 257-2350.

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VHS CHORAL CONCERT -- Featuring the Vintage High School Men's Choir, Concert Choir, Women's Ensemble, Chamber Singers and Treble Choir. Concert begins at 7 p.m. at the District Auditorium, 2425 Jefferson St., Napa. $10 at the door or in advance by calling 299-2520.

CHILDREN'S CHRISTMAS CONCERT -- Pacific Union College Elementary School's two children's choirs, the sixth- through eighth-grade Concert Band and the Beginning Band, will perform at this Christmas with the Children concert at 7 p.m. This free concert takes place in the Paulin Hall Auditorium on the PUC campus. Info, 965-2459.

IMPERIALISM EXHIBIT -- New Technology High School's World Studies class will hold a public exhibition on "Imperialism: An Unequal Exchange" in the conference room of the Napa Public Library from 6 to 8 p.m. The exhibition explores the effects of imperialism on individual countries throughout the world.

BALLROOM DANCING -- With music from the Manny Gutierrez Combo. Red, white and blue theme. Dances are held Tuesday nights from 7:30 to 10 p.m. at the Napa Senior Center, 1500 Jefferson St., Napa. $7. Info, 252-6258.

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DAN HICKS AND THE HOT LICKS -- The legendary Dan Hicks and the Hot Licks perform Holidaze in Hicksville for the first time at the Napa Valley Opera House. Experience an entertaining view of the season told through the group's original songs and dance, as well as Dan's signature eclecticism and humor. At the Napa Valley Opera House, 8 p.m., $30/$25. Info, www.nvoh.org or 226-7372.

NHS CHRISTMAS CONCERT -- Six Napa High choirs will present their annual Christmas concert on Dec. 14 at 7 p.m. and Dec. 15 at 4 and 7 p.m. in the District Auditorium, 2425 Jefferson St., Napa. $15 tickets are available at the NHS music office or by calling, 253-3705.

DG'S JAZZ NIGHT -- DG's features groups from the high school and college jazz ensemble, to some of the finest jazz musicians. At DG's, 530 Main St., Napa, 7 p.m.

DEMOCRATS HOLIDAY PARTY -- The Democrats of Napa Valley Club holiday party includes a tasty "savory and sweet" appetizer buffet and complimentary "progressive punch," holiday party favors, mini silent auction or raffle plus one of Dulce Farmer's rollicking inter-active games. Food and beverages available for purchase also. From 6 to 8:30 p.m., at Caffe Cicero -- An American Cafe, 1245 First St., Napa. Info, 257-1802.

SQUARE DANCING -- For fun, laughter, music, movement and making new friendships in a family atmosphere, bring a friend, acquaintance or family member to Boots and Belles Square Dancing with caller Scot Byars. $5 for ages 8 to 100 years young. At Grange Hall, 3275 Hagen Road, Napa. Info, Diana 252-3161 or JoAnn 255-3278.

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THE KINSEY SICKS -- The Kinsey Sicks: Oy Vey in a Manger. Returning to Copia for their third "straight" year The Kinsey Sicks -- America's Favorite Dragapella Beautyshop Quartet -- turn their considerable talents to revamping holiday cheer. Oy Vey combines their award-winning a cappella, biting wit and over-the-top drag in such soon-to-be-classics as Harried Little Christmas. At Copia, 8 p.m., $25 general/$22.50 member. Info, 259-1600.

DANCE LESSONS -- Come to DG's at 8 p.m. sharp as Angeline teaches Meringue, Cha-Chas, Salsas, West Coast Swing, Line dancing and many more. Lesson $10 additional cover may apply for live music.

MOVIE NIGHT -- The Napa Valley Center for Spiritual Living presents "Oh God!," with George Burns in the leading role of God. God approaches a non-religious man who is half nebbish, half all-knowing patriarch. God's mission is simple. He wants the man to tell people that He's still alive, still cares, but that it is up to humanity to change its course. God, you see, doesn't get involved in details. 7 p.m. at the center, 1249 Coombs Street at Pearl. $5 donation gratefully accepted.

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ST. HELENA HOSPITAL MEN'S CHORUS -- 'God's Gift of Love' is a Christmas performance by the St. Helena Hospital Men's Chorus, assisted by Children of the King with Bill and Ivy Clark as Joseph and Mary. Dec. 16 and 18 at 7:30 p.m., Dec. 17 at 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. At the Yountville Signs Memorial Seventh-day Adventist Church, 1920 Finnell Road, Yountville. Free.

THE PULSATORS -- Rooted in the fertile musical soil of the Sonoma County Wine Country, the Pulsators are a six-piece band that plays its own brand of music. With a get-up-and-dance kind of orchestration, their music has been defined as a spicy blend of driving blues, New Orleans-funky R&B, rock steady reggae and rock-and-roll. At DG's, 530 Main St., Napa, 9 p.m., $7. No cover with donation of an unwrapped toy valued at $15.

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SONOMA HOMETOWN BAND -- Directed by Richard Schneider, the Sonoma Hometown Band presents a Holiday Festival of Music at 1 p.m., at the Sebastiani Theater on the Plaza in Sonoma, 476 First St. East. Program includes highlights from "Carmen," "The Music Man" and "The Nutcracker," plus LeRoy Anderson's "Sleigh Ride," Leon Jessel's "Parade of the Wooden Soldiers," and band medleys of favorite holiday tunes. Free. Donations accepted.

EDLOS HOLIDAY SHOW -- Nicknamed "the bad boys of a cappella," the Edlos will the decking Copia's halls again with their wide-ranging variety of harmoniously spirited songs. Funny, irreverent, dynamic and inventive, the Edlos are crowd-pleasers wherever they go. At Copia, 8 p.m., $25 general/$22.50 member. Info, 259-1600.

JARVIS HOLIDAY CHORAL CONCERT -- The Napa Valley Chorale, under the direction of Jan Lanterman, artistic director and conductor and Mark Teeters, conductor, will be performing their annual Holiday Concert at the Jarvis Conservatory on Dec. 17 at 7 p.m. and Dec. 18 at 2 p.m. $35, proceeds go toward Napa Valley Chorale and Jarvis Conservatory programs. Info and tickets, 255-5445.

'THE NUTCRACKER' -- Come celebrate the season with Napa Regional Dance Company's fifth annual Nutcracker Production. Dec. 17 at 12:30 and 6 p.m. and Dec. 18 at 2 p.m. At the Lincoln Theater, Veterans Home of California, Yountville. $15 general, $20 preferred seating and $25 premier seating. Info, 944-1300, ext.1 or www.lincolntheater.org.

VIOLIN PERFORMANCE -- The Napa Community Seventh-day Adventist church invites you to a special musical presentation with internationally renowned recording artist Jamie George. Jamie studied under violinist Cyrus Forough and has traveled all over the world performing his music. 11:15 a.m. at the church, 1105 G St., Napa. Donations accepted. Info, 252-2444.

'CAROLS IN THE CAVES' -- The 20th annual "Carols in the Caves" and the first "Drums of Peace," an uplifting double-play of creative concerts in awesome acoustics will be performed by David Auerbach, "The Improvisator," a multi-instrumental mesmerizer on many ancient wind, stringed and percussion instruments from down through the ages and around the globe. "Carols in the Caves will be performed Dec. 17 and 18 at 2 p.m. at Hans Fahden Vineyards, 4855 Petrified Forest Road, Calistoga; and "Twelfth Night Carols" Jan. 7 at 7:30 p.m. and Jan. 8 at 7 p.m. at Clos Pegase Winery, 1060 Dunaweal Lane, Calistoga. $45. Not recommended for children under 10. Info, 224-4222.

CHILDREN'S HOLIDAY PARTY -- The American Legion Post is having their annual Children's Holiday Party on Dec. 17 at 1 p.m. For all children through 12 years of age and all active duty dependents. Please sign your children up in the American Legion Post Club Room at 1240 Pearl Street, Napa by Dec. 3. Call 252-0837 or Wava at 224-6641.

AUDUBON FIELD TRIP -- All levels of birding experience are welcome to the Benicia Christmas Bird Count. Meet at the Solano County Office of Education, 5100 Business Center Dr., Suisun City, at 8:30 a.m. Info, www.napasolanoaudubon.com

VISIT WITH SANTA -- Kris Kringle is taking time out of his busy schedule this holiday season to make a special guest appearance at to Napa Premium Outlets on Dec. 17 and 18 from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Enjoy a special holiday performance by the Sara Olson's Song & Dance Company on Dec. 17 at 2 p.m. and Dec. 18 at 1 p.m.

JOHNNY SMITH BAND -- The range of musical diversity that this group displays is evident by the sultry soulful voice of lead singer Johnny Smith as he conveys all the emotions of love lost or low down blues, to his unique renditions of jazz standards. 9 p.m. $7 cover. At DG's. 530 Main St., Napa in the historic mill. No cover with donation of an unwrapped toy valued at $15.

ROCKIN' TOY DRIVE -- Bring thy self and thy bountiful friends to this gathering at Caffe Cicero from 6 p.m. to midnight with a new unwrapped toy to benefit Toys for Tots. Feast on Cicero's Po' Boy sandwiches, jambalaya, seafood gumbo and more. Performances by the Napa Musicians Performance Guild.

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PIANO VIRTUOSO JOHN BAYLESS -- Lincoln Theater, in association with Peju Winery, is proud to present pianist John Bayless in a holiday concert featuring songs from his hit album, "Christmas Rhapsody" at 8 p.m. Bayless is world-renowned for his fabulous improvisational skills, playing Bach in the style of the Beatles, Mozart in the style of Scott Joplin as well as songs from a variety of movies, and improvisations of operatic arias. He is dedicating this performance to his friend, Chef Jacques Pepin, who will be celebrating his 70th birthday by attending this concert. Tickets are $25 to $55. For reservations call the Lincoln Theatre box office at 944-1300 or go to www.lincolntheatre.org.

POETRY SLAM --Local teens will have an opportunity to perform original poetry at an exciting poetry slam event. The Grand Slam winner from last year's series, Matt Rideout, will be the featured poet for the evening. His talent as well as dramatic and unique poetry style will surely motivate and delight all who attend. Open mic session begins at 5:30 p.m. followed by the slam session at 6. At the Napa Main Library, 580 Coombs St., Napa. Info, 253-4235.

CHRISTMAS RENAISSANCE TEA -- This elegant holiday event will have Old English ambiance complete with scones, Devonshire cream, tea sandwiches and delightful petit fours. Guests can enjoy an assortment of teas and the heavenly sounds of concert harpist Heather Pasqual. At Cedar Gables Inn, 486 Coombs St., Napa, 3 to 5:30 p.m. $35. Reservations required, 224-7969.