The holidays are an exciting time in Danville. This weekend’s calendar continues to offer fun, holiday-related events. In addition, attend one of giant screen films at the Danville Science Center or visit the 1963 Danville Civil Rights exhibit at The Danvillian Gallery, 210 North Union St. Here is a list of what’s happening:
COMMUNITY HOLIDAY LIGHT SHOW
When: 6 p.m. daily
Where: Ballou Park, 760 West Main St., Danville, VA
Danville Parks and Recreation presents the third annual Community Holiday Light Show. The show is a drive-through event that is open nightly through Sunday, Dec. 25 (closed on Christmas Eve). On Sundays through Thursdays, the event opens at 6 p.m. and closes at 9 p.m. On Fridays through Saturdays, the show opens at 6 p.m. and closes at 10 p.m. Last year, more than 1,500 cars carrying an estimated 6,000 people visited the park for the light show. The show is made up entirely of displays created by the community. The event also includes the Children's Village, which is included in the price of admission, and will be open until 9 p.m. through December 23. Snacks and beverages and a visit with Santa Claus are part of the village. During the two-week event, the public will be given the opportunity to vote on their favorite display. A donation will be made to the winner’s choice of non-profit. The show itself is manned by volunteer groups, who earn a portion of the gate the night in which they work directing traffic through the park. Cost: $7 per car, $15 for buses and 15-passenger vans. Discount nights ($5 per car and $10 per bus and passenger van) will be held on Tuesday, Dec. 13, Monday, Dec. 19 and Tuesday, Dec. 20. For more information, call the Danville Welcome Center at 793-4636 or visit www.playdanvilleva.com.
CHRISMONS TREE VIEWING
When: 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. daily through Saturday, Dec. 24, also Sundays 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Ascension Lutheran Church, 314 West Main St., Danville, VA
Chrismons ornaments were originated and first made for use on the Christmas tree of Ascension Lutheran Church in Danville in 1957 by Mrs. Frances Kipps Spencer, a church member. Today, the tradition continues. See the 20-foot tree and hear the story of Christ as told through the uniquely beautiful ornaments. Groups may schedule day visits by calling 792-5795. Parking is available in the lot on the left side of the church at the back. Front entrance is accessible. Cost: Free. For more information, call 792-5795 or visit http://www.chrismon.org/
MOVIES IN THE DIGITAL DOME THEATER
When: Ongoing, with show times on Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Sundays from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: Danville Science Center, 677 Craghead St., Danville, VA
Danville Science Center's Digital Dome Theater presents breathtaking films on its gigantic 40-foot screen. Adventurers of all ages can voyage on a river and travel the cosmos without leaving their seats! Show times are 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. on Saturday, and 1 p.m., 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. on Sunday. The theater also is features afternoon shows on Tuesdays-Fridays. Cost: For adults, $6 for the movie only, $10 for movie and the exhibits. For youths 4-12, $5 for the movie only and $9 for the movie and exhibits. For more information, go online to www.dsc.smv.org/digitaldome or call the center at 791-5160
CIVIL RIGHTS EXHIBIT
When: Ongoing, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., Wednesdays through Saturdays
Where: The Danvillian Gallery, 210 North Union Street, Danville, VA
This exhibit features the 1963 Danville civil rights movement display of photos and written memories. Presented by the Danville Historical Society, the display — curated by Emma Edmund —is available for viewing by the public for free. For more information, call (434) 466.7981 or email Emma Edmunds at ee9b@virginia.edu.
MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS STAGE SPECTACULAR
When: 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 17
Where: The Historic North Theatre, 629 North Main St., Danville, VA
Be amazed by this live show as celebrity magician and world champion illusionist Wayne Alan presents an exciting yet heart-warming magic and illusion show themed around Christmas. This show is full of family fun, with not only amazing magic, but also great music that includes many of your favorite sacred and secular holiday songs. The show closes with the dramatic “One Solitary Man” on the big screen. Evening performances at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 17, and Friday, Dec. 23. Matinee at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 27. Cost: Adults $20 and $15, children 12 and under $10. For more information, call (434) 793-SHOW (7469) or visit www.TheNorthTheatre.com/
