Planet Weekend Picks, Dec. 21-23

polarSome readers have asked us where to find some good Christmas light displays in the Princeton area. The Cranbury Christmas Light Show runs through Dec. 31 at 128 North Main Street. More than 20,000 lights are controlled by 432 channels and 22,000 feet of extension cords includes a shooting fountain of light, a wall of snowflakes, and a mega tree. Lights coordinated to songs ranging from traditional to whimsical. Free will donations go to area food banks. Show coordinated to music runs between 6 and 9 p.m. nightly. Santa visits at 7 p.m.  The 50-minute show begins on the hour. Visitors may tune to the radio station posted to watch the lights dance to the music. For more info. visit CranburyChristmasLights.com.

Do you know of other nice Princeton area light displays? Let us know. Thanks.

Friday, Dec. 21

“The Polar Express”, Family Movie Night at the Princeton Public Library -In this computer-animated fantasy based on Chris Van Allsburg’s book, a doubting boy boards a magical train on Christmas Eve and takes a trip to the North Pole to meet Santa Claus. Hot chocolate and cookies will be served. 7 p.m. in the Community Room, free.

Longest Night Service at Princeton United Methodist Church – A service of worship and remembrance on the winter solstice. This year’s service offers an opportunity to join those who mourn with the people of Newtown, Conn. 7:30 p.m. in the church sanctuary at Nassau St.and Vandeventer Ave.

A Christmas Carol, McCarter Theatre – Holiday classic by Charles Dickens. Tickets $20 and up. Friday at 7:30 p.m., Saturday 2 p.m., 7:30 p.m.,  Sunday at 1 p.m.,  5:30 p.m.

End of the World Party at the Station Bar and Grill – DJ, dancing and more. Begins at 9 p.m. at 2625 Route 130 South in Cranbury.

Saturday, December 22

Story Time at the Princeton Public Library – Stories, songs and rhymes for children 2-8 years of age and their families. Adults must accompany their children. 10:30 a.m. in the Story Room, free.

Insight Meditation Open House at Princeton Center for Yoga & Health – Sitting and walking meditation and mindfulness with James Pritchett and Martha Elliot. Register. Free., www.princetonyoga.com, 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Center located in the Orchard Hill Center, 88 Orchard Road in Skillman.

Ice Skate with Santa at the Mercer County Park Ice Rink – Family skate session with Santa followed by visit with Santa, candy canes, and photographs. $7 general admission, $5 for children and seniors. Free skate rental. 5 to 7 p.m.

Cafe Improv at the Arts Council of Princeton – Music, poetry, comedy and more. Admission $2, $1 for arts council members, students & seniors. Runs from 7 to 10 p.m.

Princeton Men’s Basketball – The Tigers face Bucknell in Jadwin Gym at 7 p.m. Tickets $12.

Sunday, December 23

Salons Saving Our Shores – More than 30 salons will offer haircuts, styling, eyelash and eyebrow enhancement, chair massage, and clip in hair extensions to benefit the recovery and rebuilding of families and businesses devastated by Hurricane Sandy. Proceeds benefit One Simple Wish and Restore Our Shore. Walk-ins welcome. Runs from 1 to 5 p.m. at the Westin Hotel, Forrestal Village, 201 Village Boulevard in Plainsboro.

Princeton Brass Band Concert – The band performs in Richardson Auditorium at Princeton University, at 2 p.m. Tickets $10 at the door.

Sunday Stories at the Princeton Public Library – Stories, songs and rhymes for children 2-8 years of age and their families. Adults must accompany all children.  3:30 p.m. in the Story Room, free.