Napa author Tyler Oakes reads from her newly published novel, “Ruby Rest” at Copperfield’s on Saturday, Dec. 8 at 1 p.m. She’ll also be signing copies of “Ruby Rest” at the holiday cigar tasting party at Baker Street Downtown on Thursday, Dec. 13 from 6-9 p.m.

“Ruby Rest,” a romantic mystery set in Carmel, is available at Copperfields and Bookends in Napa.

The Nest, a new artists’ collective in Napa, holds a “Holiday Spirits” art and gift sale  Dec. 1 and 2, 11 a.m. to  6 p.m. Artist vendors, an eco-wrap workstation and hot chocolate are all part of the event. The Nest is behind Jessel Galley at 1019 Atlas Peak Road.

Napa Valley College presents a “Holiday Harmony” concert Saturday, Dec. 1 at 8 p.m. and Sunday, Dec, 2 at 3 p.m. in the college theater. The College Chorale, directed by Vaida Falconbridge, and the Women’s Chorale, directed by Dr. Eve-Anne Wilkes, will present traditional favorites. The College Chorale will be accompanied Lyn Walkenhorst, flute, and Marlene Smith, percussion, with Mark Osten accompanying both groups.

Tickets are $12 for adults; $10 for students and seniors. Tickets can be purchased at the Napa Valley College Cashier’s office or by calling 259-8077. Tickets will also be on sale one half hour before the performance. The theater is at 2277 Napa-Vallejo Highway, Building 1200, Napa. Call 259-8077 for more information.

Napa Valley College Division of Fine and Performing Arts holds auditions for “La Cage aux Folles” Dec. 5 and 6 at 7 p.m. in the college theater.

Director Jennifer King said, “Ideally, we would like those auditioning to sing a song from a musical so they must bring sheet music for the accompanist and wear clothes they can move in. If you have tap shoes, bring them along too.”

“La Cage aux Folles” is a musical based on the 1973 French play by Jean Poiret and subsequent 1978 French-Italian film. The musical focuses on a gay couple, Georges, the manager of a Saint-Tropez nightclub featuring drag entertainment, and Albin, his star attraction.

In 1996, Mike Nichols directed an American version, “The Birdcage.“

The Napa Valley College Theater is in building 1200 on the college campus, 2277 Napa-Vallejo Highway  For more information, contact King at 253-3209 or jking@napavalley.edu

Napa Valley Contra Dance’s next gathering is Dec. 1 at the Tucker Farm Center in Calistoga. All dances are taught and called — no partner or experience is necessary. Come at 7:15 p.m. for a beginner’s lesson. The dance starts promptly at 7:30 and runs till 10:30 p.m.

Live music provided for this dance by Judy Stavely on the fiddle and Dan Warrick on guitar. Dances will be called by Celia Ramsay. The cost is $10; supervised children are welcome ($5).

Contra dance is New England-style folk dancing, similar to square dancing. It is set partner dancing — not line dance. Wear comfy shoes and prepare to have fun.

For further information or directions, call. Ramsay at 963-5667.