Art

“Madeleine de Sinety: Photographs,” Portland Museum of Art. 775-6148; portlandmuseum.org. Through Dec. 31.

“Gather Up the Fragments: The Andrews Shaker Collection,” Shaker furniture, art, tools, textiles and crafts, Portland Museum of Art. 775-6148; portlandmuseum.org. Through Feb. 5.

“Imagination Takes Shape: Canadian Inuit Art from the Robert and Judith Toll Collection,” Bowdoin College (Peary-MacMillan Arctic Museum), Brunswick. 725-3416; bowdoin.edu/arctic-museum.

“Paul Caponigro: The Hidden Presence of Places,” photography, Farnsworth Art Museum, Rockland. 596-6457; farnsworthmuseum.org. Through Jan. 5.

“Focus on India,” photos by Lawrence Elbroch, Red Door Pottery Studio and Gallery Shop, Kittery. 439-5671. Through Dec. 15.

“Courting the Muse,” watercolors by Ken Fellows, York Public Library. 363-2818. Through Dec. 30.

“Still/Moving,” performance, video, sculptural objects, printmaking and photography by Deborah Wing-Sproul, Center for Maine Contemporary Art, Rockport. cmcanow.org. Through Dec. 11.

“Sferics and Aural Ecosystem,” installation by Zach Poff and N.B. Aldrich, Center for Maine Contemporary Art, Rockport. cmcanow.org. Through Dec. 11.

“Pieced and Wired,” Gabriella D’Italia, George Mason and Ellen Wieske, Center for Maine Contemporary Art, Rockport. cmcanow.org. Through Dec. 11.

Dominic Chavez: “The Global Lens,” photography, University of Maine Museum of Art, Bangor. umma.umaine.edu. Through Dec. 30.

Carlo Pittore, “Studio Life,” University of Maine Museum of Art, Bangor. umma.umaine.edu. Through Dec. 30.

Abe Ajay, “Constructions, University of Maine Museum of Art, Bangor. umma.umaine.edu. Through Dec. 30.

“A Perpetual Present,” 2011 MECA Faculty Selects Exhibition, Maine College of Art (Institute of Contemporary Art), Portland. 699-5029. Through Dec. 23.

Holiday Extravaganza, 60-plus Maine artists, craftsmen, poets and musicians, Aarhus Gallery, Belfast. 338-0001. Through Dec. 24.

Dahlov Ipcar, paintings, Frost Gully Gallery, Thomaston. frostgullygallery.com. Ends Saturday.

“Precious Things,” multiple artists, small pieces, L/A Arts Gallery 5, Lewiston. 576-4805. Through Jan. 7.

“Objects of Affection,” still-life paintings by Liliana Thelander, Denise Rankin, Nancy O’Brien MacKinnon and Pamela Hansen, Damariscotta River Grill, Damariscotta. 563-2992. Through Dec. 12.

“Let Heaven and Nature Sing: Seventh Annual Festival of Trees,” Saco Museum. 283-3861; sacomuseum.org. Through Dec. 31.

J. Donna Asmussen, watercolors and printmaking, Finance Authority of Maine, Augusta. famemaine.com. Through Jan. 6.

“Many Hands: Wabanaki Paths of Learning,” University of Southern Maine (Woodbury Campus Center), Portland. usm.maine.edu/gallery. Through Dec. 16.

“Colors of Maine,” paintings by Neil Wyrick, Falmouth Memorial Library. 781-2351. Through Dec. 30.

Michele A. Caron, paintings, 317 Main Street Community Music Center, Yarmouth. 846-6264. Through Jan. 13.

Lori Ingraham’s “Foliage” and Harry Nadler’s “Sightings,” Elizabeth Moss Gallery, Falmouth. 781-2620. Ends today.

“All Things Bright and Beautiful,” four Maine artists, Archipelago, Rockland. 596-0701. Through Jan. 6.

Drawing the Line# 11, drawings large and small, June Fitzpatrick Gallery at MECA, Portland. 699-5083. Through Dec. 23.

Juried Student Exhibition, University of Southern Maine (Art Gallery), Gorham. usm.maine.edu/gallery. Ends Friday.

“Enter Night,” art with theme of “welcoming darkness and celebrating the coming of winter,” Rose Contemporary, Portland. rosecontemporary.com. Through Saturday, Dec. 31.

Artisans Collective Mixed Media Show and Sale, The Royal Bean, Yarmouth. 846-7967. Sunday, Dec. 4. Runs through Dec. 15.

“About Face,” photographic portraits of Maine people by James Allen Walker, Merrill Memorial Library, Yarmouth. yarmouthlibrary.org.

“Barry: The Art Exhibition,” Edith Cleaves Barry’s paintings, sculpture and pen-and-ink drawings, Brick Store Museum, Kennebunk. 985-4802. Through Jan. 9.

New paintings by Paul Black, Fore Street Gallery, Portland. 874-8084. Through Jan. 7.

“Peace 2011,” painting, drawing and sculpture, Greenhut Galleries, Portland. 772-2693. Through Dec. 31.

“A Tradition of Affordable Art,” Art Space Gallery, Rockland. artspacemaine.com. Through Dec. 31.

“Bringing Art Home for the Holidays,” four craft artists in fiber, metal, wood and clay, Harmon’s & Barton’s Gallery, Portland. 774-5948. Through Dec. 31.

Invitational Ornament Show, ornaments in glass, clay, wood, fiber and metals, Markings Gallery, Bath. 443-1499. Through Dec. 31.

“Beast in Show,” Susan Mathias and Nancy McGinnis, benefit for area animal organizations, Monkitree, Gardiner. 512-4679. Through Jan. 12.

“Gift Wrapped,” mixed-media collages by Noriko Sakanishi, Gold/Smith Gallery, Boothbay Harbor. 633-6252. Through Dec. 24.

“Port of Portland: A Ship-Shaped History,” presented by Maine Maritime Museum, Portland Public Library (Lewis Gallery). 443-1316. Through Jan. 3.

Multi-artist show and sale, Studio 53 Fine Art Gallery, Boothbay Harbor. 380-7554. Noon to 3 p.m. today; noon to 5 p.m. Saturday; noon to 3 p.m. Dec. 11.

Diane Hudson’s “My Chicago” and Jane Banquer’s “Vanishing Acts,” photography, woodblock prints and paintings, Addison Woolley Gallery, Portland. 450-8499. Through Dec. 22.

Charles Thompson, plein air paintings celebrating nature, University of New England Campus Center, Biddeford. une.edu. Through Jan. 15.

“In the Forest by the Sea,” paintings by Jada Fitch, The Green Hand Bookshop, Portland. 253-6808. Through Jan. 30.

Second annual holiday art show, Snug Harbor Farm, Kennebunk. 967-2414. Through Dec. 31.

New and recent photographs by Thomas Birtwistle, Cole Caswell and Bryan Graf, Zero Station Art, Design, Framing, Portland. Through Feb. 1.

Diane Bowie Zaitlin, encaustic paintings, Carver Hill Gallery, Rockland. carverhillgallery.com. Through Dec. 31.

Annual holiday exhibition , Caldbeck Gallery, Rockland. 594-5935. Reception today. Through Dec. 23.

“John Hultberg and Monhegan Island: The Man, The Place and his Dreams,” Fryeburg Academy (Palmina F. and Stephen S. Pace Galleries of Art), Fryeburg. 935-9232. Through Jan. 21.

“Maine Wood 2012,” biennial juried exhibition of Maine woodworkers, Center for Furniture Craftsmanship, Rockport. woodschool.org. Through Feb. 3.

“Through the Ages: 75 Years at the Brick Store Museum,” Brick Store Museum, Kennebunk. 985-4802.

“8 x 10 x 10,” group show in which all work is $80, benefits the gallery’s art programming, Harlow Gallery, Hallowell. harlowgallery.org.

Michael Kolster, photography, Harlow Gallery, Hallowell. harlowgallery.org. Presentation on “A River Lost and Found: The Androscoggin River in Time and Place,” 6:30 p.m. Thursday.

Kathleen Daughan Open Studio, Lucid Stage, Portland. kathleendaughan.com. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday.

Art Openings

“Small Works 2011,” Courthouse Gallery Fine Art, Ellsworth. 667-6611. Holiday open house, 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday.

“Something Blue,” multi-artist exhibit, Elizabeth Moss Gallery, Falmouth. elizabethmossgalleries.com. Opening reception, 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday.

Annual Small Works Show: painting and mixed media by 18 artists, Perimeter Gallery, Belfast. 338-0555. Opening reception, 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday.

Photo a Go Go, Bakery Photographic Collective, Westbrook. bakeryphoto.com. Silent auction and music, 6 to 8 p.m. Friday.

“Inside Stories,” oil paintings by Adria Moynihan, running with scissors, Portland. 978-394-6605. Opening reception, 5 to 8 p.m. Friday.

“Kitchen Americana,” paintings by Jean Kigel, The Bakery, Damariscotta. 563-2867. Artist reception, 4 to 6 p.m. Saturday.

“Eyecatchers,” wall carvings, paintings, woodblock prints and more, Gleason Fine Arts, Boothbay Harbor. 633-6849. Reception, 5 to 7 p.m. Saturday.

Benefits

Wildland Sundays, hayrides, bonfire, cocoa, cookies, cut your own tree, benefits Great Pond Mountain Conservation Trust, Great Pond Mountain Wildlands, Orland, $25, per tree. 469-2008. Noon to 3 p.m. today.

Dinner and Kirtan celebration, to benefit Hridaya Hermitage with Indian cuisine and traditional chanting performed by the ensemble Shiva Lila. The Jewel of India, South Portland, $25 advance, $30 door. 542-6606. hridayahermitage.com. 7 to 10 p.m. today.

Cut your own Christmas tree, wagon ride, drinks and treats, benefits Damariscotta Lake Watershed Association, West Branch Preserve, Somerville, $25 per tree. dlwa.org. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday.

2011 Dough Ball, prelude to the Gingerbread Spectacular, music by the Four Snowmen, silent auction, cash bar, hors d’oeuvres, Opera House at Boothbay Harbor, Boothbay Harbor, $20 advance, $30 door. 633-5159. 7 p.m. Friday.

Talent and variety show, benefits Bath Area Food Bank and the church, Congregational Church, Phippsburg, $10, $6 students and kids. 389-1770. 7 p.m. Friday.

Bead for Life bead party, jewelry, organic shea butter products and handmade cards, all made by women in Uganda. Sheepscot General, Whitefield. 323-2835. 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday.

Kittery Artwalk Fundraiser for Footprints Food Pantry, Red Door Pottery Studio and Gallery Shop, Kittery. reddoorpottery.com. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday.

Books and Authors

Spindleworks book signing and poetry reading, Gulf of Maine Books, Brunswick. spindleworks.org. 4 to 5:30 p.m. today.

Linda and Martha Greenlaw, authors of “The Maine Summers Cookbook,” Lisa-Marie’s Made in Maine, Bath. 443-2225. 1 to 3 p.m. today.

Neil Rolde, author of “Maine in the World,” Sherman’s Books and Stationery, Freeport. 869-9000. 2 to 4 p.m. today.

Feeding Creativity, FCA Conversation Series, “The Art and Craft of Publishing Online,” with Emma Bouthillette, Josh Christie and Mark Diehl, Freeport Community Center, $5. freeportcreativearts.org. 7 p.m. Monday.

Susan Conley, reading and signing, North Yarmouth Academy, Higgins Hall, Yarmouth, free/donation. nya.org. 7 to 8 p.m. Tuesday.

John Moon, author of “City by the Sea: A Photographic History of Portland Maine,” Portland Public Library (Lewis Gallery). 443-1316. Noon Tuesday.

Poet Arielle Greenberg, author of “My Kafka Century” and “Given,” University of Southern Maine (Wishcamper Center), Portland. 228-8393. 7 p.m. Tuesday.

Chats with Champions with Philip Conkling, author of “Islands in Time: A Natural and Cultural History of the Islands of Maine,” Skidompha Library, Damariscotta. 563-5513. 10 a.m. Tuesday.

Donn Fendler, author of “Lost Trail, Nine Days Alone in the Wilderness,” Maine Coast Book Shop and Cafe, Damariscotta. 563-3207. 5 p.m. Tuesday.

Brown Bag Lecture, Barbara Walsh, author of “August Gale: A Father and Daughter’s Journey Into the Storm,” one-hour program, bring your own lunch, Portland Public Library, free. 871-1710. Noon to 1 p.m. Wednesday.

David Smith, P.I., author of “Through My Private Eyes,” Rockland Library, Rockland. 594-0310. 6:30 p.m. Thursday.

Maine authors David Solmitz and Howard Waxman, Gulf of Maine Books, Brunswick. 729-5083. 7 p.m. Friday.

Jane Bregoli, author of the children’s book “The Goat Lady,” Sherman’s Books and Stationery, Freeport. 869-9000. 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Saturday.

Eva Murray, author of “Well Out To Sea: Year-Round on Matinicus Island,” Sherman’s Books and Stationery, Freeport. 869-9000. 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Saturday.

Stephne Hyde and Christoper Ayres, authors of “Between House and Barn, a Rural Interlude,” GoBerry, Portland. 671-9764. 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday.

Luann Yetter, author of “Portland’s Past; Stories from the City by the Sea,” Nonesuch Books, South Portland. 799-2659. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday.

Kapital Ink #5 Release Party with Crash Barry, author of “Sex, Drugs and Blueberries” and “Tough Island,” music from Sweetgrass, Low 90 and Hi Tige, Zero Station Art, Design, Framing, Portland. 347-7000. 6:30 p.m. Saturday.

Rebekah Raye, author of the children’s book “Bear-ly There,” Sherman’s Books and Stationery, Freeport. 869-9000. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec. 11.

W.H. Bunting, author of “Live Yankees: The Sewalls and Their Ships,” Sherman’s Books and Stationery, Freeport. 869-9000. 1 to 3 p.m. Dec. 11.

Classical Music

Graduate showcase, University of Southern Maine music students, Corthell Concert Hall, Gorham, free. usm.maine.edu/music. 5 p.m. today.

South Berwick Community Chorus, “Laud to the Nativity,” 16th- and-20th century works by Italian and Italian-American composers, Marshwood High School, South Berwick, $10 advance, $12 doors, $10 seniors and students. 384-7059. 3 p.m. today.

Bowdoin College Chamber Choir, works from the United States, Hungary and Austria, Bowdoin Chapel, Brunswick, free. 798-4141. 2:30 p.m. today.

CODA Chorus Annual Christmas Concert, sacred pieces including Beethoven’s “Hallelujah,” Hope Baptist Church, Manchester. 623-9433. 7 p.m. today.

DaPonte String Quartet, Haydn, Britten and Beethoven, Mid-Coast Presbyterian Church, Topsham, $18-$22, free for under 21. daponte.org. 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 4.

Pianist Jenny Cruz, University of Maine (Fox Auditorium), Fort Kent, 10. 834-7580. 2 p.m. today.

USM classical guitar recital, Mayo Street Arts, Portland, free. mayostreetarts.org. 8 p.m. Monday.

Bates Composers Society concert, Olin Concert Hall, Lewiston, free, tickets required. 786-6135. 8 p.m. Tuesday.

Winthrop Handbells perform holiday favorites, Lithgow Public Library, Augusta, free. lithgow.lib.me.us. 6:30 p.m. Wednesday.

Southern Maine Children’s Chorus, University of Southern Maine (Corthell Concert Hall), Gorham, donation. usm.maine.edu/music. 7 p.m. Thursday.

Portland Conservatory of Music Noonday Concerts, USM Chamber Singers and Robert Russell, First Parish Unitarian Universalist Church, Portland, free. 775-3356. 12:15 p.m. Thursday.

Bates Gamelan Orchestra, program inspired by classical Javanese percussion music, Bates College (Chapel), Lewiston, free, tickets required. 786-6135. 8 p.m. Thursday.

“Magic of Christmas,” annual holiday concert with the Portland Symphony Orchestra, Magic of Christmas Chorus and guests, Merrill Auditorium, Portland, $31-$61, senior and student discounts. 842-0800. 7:30 p.m. Friday; 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday; 1 and 5 p.m. Dec. 11.

Chamber ME Music Series, piano and violin music by Beethoven, Schumann and Bartok, State Street Church, Portland, free. 251-1953; tinyurl.com/chamberME. 5 p.m. Friday.

Chamber ME Music Series, piano and violin music by Beethoven, Schumann and Bartok, Freeport Community Center, free. tinyurl.com/chamberME. 11 a.m. Friday.

St. Petersburg Men’s Ensemble, from ancient Russian chants to Western European chorales to modern music, Christ Church, Kennebunk, $10, $7 students and seniors. 985-4494. 7 p.m. Friday.

Chamber ME Music Series, piano and violin music by Beethoven, Schumann and Bartok, River Tree Arts, Kennebunk, Free. 967-9120; tinyurl.com/chamberME. Noon Saturday.

St. Cecilia Chamber Choir: “A Ceremony of Lessons and Carols,” Bowdoin Chapel, Brunswick, $15, free for students. ceciliachoir.org. 3 p.m. Saturday.

DaPonte String Quartet, Christmas concert, Mid-Coast Presbyterian Church, Topsham, free. daponte.org. 7 p.m. Saturday.

Odeon Holiday Concert with Marc Johnson, all four Odeon ensembles; Junior, symphony, chamber and adult, Rockport Opera House, free. 236-2823. 2:30 p.m. Dec. 11.

Portland String Quartet: Bach’s “The Art of the Fugue,” Woodfords Congregational Church, Portland, $22, $20 seniors, 21 and under free. 761-1522. Concert followed by reception, 2 p.m. Dec. 11.

DaPonte String Quartet, Christmas concert, Second Congregational Church, Newcastle, free. daponte.org. 3 p.m. Dec. 11.

Dance

Maine State Ballet’s “The Nutcracker,” Merrill Auditorium, Portland, $20-$60. porttix.com. 2 p.m. today.

“Dance USM!” Annual dance concert, University of Southern Maine (Russell Hall), Gorham, $15, $11 seniors, $8 students. usm.maine.edu/theatre. 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday; 5 p.m. Dec. 11.

River Tree Arts Presents “A Very Cuban Christmas,” family dance with Latin dance band featuring March Chillemi and Duane Edwards from Primo Cubano, Franciscan Monastery Hall, Kennebunk, $15, $10 and under free. brownpapertickets.com. 7 to 9 p.m. Saturday.

Fairs/Festivals

Winter holiday show, handmade crafts, Blueberry Ridge Farm, Pownal. 688-4153. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. today.

Christmas craft fair, American Legion Hall, Gray. 576-3870. 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. today.

Festival of “Fostering” Trees, decorated Christmas trees, raffles and refreshments, benefits Southern Maine foster-care system, American Legion Post 56, York, free. 351-1988. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. today.

Bradbury Mountain Arts holiday show and sale, paintings, jewelry, crafts more, Mallett Hall, Pownal. 688-2272. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. today.

34th annual holiday arts and crafts show, handcrafted items from 95 Maine artisans, USM Sullivan Gym, Portland, $2. 621-2818. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. today.

Good Shepherd Parish Christmas Fair, Most Holy Trinity Church, Saco. 284-8035. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. today.

“HANDMADE” and craft show, over 40 indie crafters and artists, Waterfall Arts, Belfast. waterfallarts.org. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.

Maine Fiberarts holiday open house sale, handspun yarn, knitted goods, basketry, felted goods, hooked rugs, more, Red Studio, Topsham. mainefiberarts.org. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. today.

Holiday fair, Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, Windham. 892-3048. Noon to 3 p.m. today.

Christmas by the Sea, weekend celebration at various locations in the Rockport-Camden-Lincolnville area with many events including tree lighting, parade, singing and horse-drawn wagon rides. camdenme.org. Today.

SEA holiday sale, 80-plus artists and craftsmen, East End Community School, Portland. SEAportland.org. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. today.

Christmas Prelude, house tours, music, parades, walking tours, tree lighting, craft show, various locations, Kennebunkport. christmasprelude.com. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. today.

Annual Christmas open house and craft fair, Stone Mountain Arts Center, Brownfield. stonemountainartscenter.com. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. today.

Holiday art exhibit and sale, Lincoln Building, Brunswick. 798-6964. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. today.

Holiday Art Fest, paintings, photography, pottery, glass and jewelry, Art Guild Gallery, Freeport. 865-5413. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. today.

Festival of Trees, co-sponsored by the Buxton Garden Club; benefits Buxton “Keep the Heat On” fund, Bar Mills Community Church, Buxton, free. 929-8283. 1 to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

Art in the Hood holiday craft sale, 12 local artists, Townsend Real Estate & Art Gallery, Willard Square, South Portland, South Portland. 842-9200. 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday.

Festival of Wreaths, exhibit and silent auction of wreaths made by local artists, Penobscot Marine Museum, Searsport. 548-2529. Friday and Saturday.

Christkindlsmarkt, traditional European village market, live music, unique crafts, kids gift shop, German food, visit with Santa, St. Nicholas Episcopal Church, Scarborough. 756-9723. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday.

Maine Nordmenn Julefest, foods, St. Lucia procession, dancing, carol singing, silent auction and more, Sky-Hy Conference Center, Topsham, $15. 215-6186. Noon to 4 p.m. Saturday.

Maine Indian Basketmakers sale and demonstration, also features traditional foods and music, University of Maine (Collins Center for the Arts), Orono, free. 581-1904. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday.

Christmas Magic arts and crafts show, Westbrook Middle School, $2. 621-2818. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday.

Holiday art sale and celebration, paintings, prints and cards by Lea Peterson, Barbara Bean, Letty Husson and Susan Zimmerman, Old Post Office Gallery, Georgetown. leapetersonart.net. 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday.

Annual Christmas by the Sea arts and crafts fair, Ogunquit Fire Station. 646-4947. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday.

Artisan craft fair, benefits Animal Refuge League, Grapheteria Gallery, Portland, $2 or a can of pet food. 772-3709. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday.

Annual holiday art show, pottery by Elaine Fuller, jewelry by Ashley Heffron and Red Heel, more, Kittery Art Association, Kittery. 439-1290. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday; 1 to 6 p.m. Dec. 11.

Cookie Walk, fill a box with home-made cookies, St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, Waterboro, $8. 247-6244. 9 a.m. to Noon Saturday.

Haitian metal art holiday sale, flat sculptures from recycled oil drums made by Haitian artists, benefits Konbit Sante, St. Lawrence Arts Center, Portland. stlawrencearts.org. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday.

Christmas Market at the Garden, Maine wares in festive setting, Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, Boothbay, free. 633-4333. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday.

Designing Women fine art and craft show, 20 artists and craftswomen, Woodfords Congregational Church, Portland, $2, benefits Safe Passage. designingwomen.org. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday.

Picnic holiday sale, juried indie craft fair, photos with Yeti, live DJs, Portland Company Complex, Portland. picnicportland.com. 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Dec. 11.

Films

“Handmade Puppet Dreams Volume 3,” films by Genevieve Anderson, Jeanne Stern, Jason von Hinezmeyer and others, Mayo Street Arts, Portland, $7. mayostreetarts.org. 7 p.m. today.

Fall Film Series, “Of Gods and Men” (2010), York Public Library, free. 363-2818. 3 p.m. today.

“An Encounter with Simone Weil,” a USM Philosophy Symposium Film, Space, Portland, $7. space538.org. 7:30 p.m. Tuesday.

For Children

Santa’s workshop for kids, shopping, breakfast with Santa, photo, for kids under 12, Sebago Town Hall, Sebago. 787-2489. 8 to 11 a.m. today.

KinderKonzerts, Portland Symphony Orchestra, “Percussion: Sounds All Around,” for ages 3 to 7, Reiche School, Portland, $4. 773-6128. 1:15 p.m. Tuesday.

KinderKonzerts, Portland Symphony Orchestra, “Peter and the Wolf,” for ages 3 to 7, East End Community School, Portland, $4. 773-6128. 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. Tuesday.

KinderKonzerts, Portland Symphony Orchestra, “Peter and the Wolf,” for ages 3 to 7, Dyer Library, Saco, $4. 773-6128. 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. Wednesday.

Sesame Street Live, Cumberland County Civic Center, Portland, $10-$50. 775-3458. 10:30 a.m. and 7 p.m. Friday; 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturday; 2 p.m. Dec. 11.

“Santa’s Reindeer Revue,” talent show by band of renegade reindeer, Children’s Museum and Theatre of Maine, Portland, $8-$9. kitetails.org. 4 p.m. Friday.

Home & Garden

Bath Antiques Show, 55 dealers, Bath Middle School, $4. 443-8983. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 11.

Music

Anne Dodson and Friends, First Congregational Church, Camden, $13-$15, $6-$7 for children 6 to 12. 236-9576. 7 p.m. today.

Weekly music jam sessions, bring an instrument or just come to listen, Sail Power and Steam Museum, Rockland, free. 701-7627. 2 to 4 p.m. today and Dec. 11.

Shape note singing, participatory four-part singing tradition also known as sacred harp, The New Church, Portland, donation. 216-3890. 1 to 4 p.m. today.

Charlie Hunter and Tamango, jazz guitarist with tap dancer, Bates Dance Festival event, Olin Concert Hall, Lewiston, $15, $10 students and seniors. batestickets.com. 7:30 p.m. today.

Moira Smiley and VOCO, “A Winter Gust of Song,” women’s a cappella ensemble holiday and winter seasonal show, Johnson Hall, Gardiner, $16. 582-7144. 4 p.m. today.

Manners, Hersey State and Jason Nichols, The Oak and the Ax, Biddeford, $7. theoakandtheax.blogspot.com. 8 p.m. today.

Jazz breakfast, Portland Museum of Art, free, with museum admission. portlandmuseum.org. Bill Byrne Quartet with Tony Boffa, 10:30 a.m. to noon today; Port City Jazz, 10:30 a.m. to Dec. 11.

Charlie Hunter and Tamango, jazz guitarist and tap dancer, Bates College (Olin Arts Center), Lewiston, $15 advance, $20 door, $10 students and seniors. 786-6135. 7:30 p.m. today.

“The Barra MacNeils Cape Breton Christmas,” Skye Theatre Performing Arts Center, South Carthage, $25, $12.50 for 15 and under. 562-4445. 7 p.m. today.

Christmas at the Cathedral, Choral Art Society’s annual holiday concert, Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Portland, $10-$30, $5 kids. 828-0043. 2:30 and 7 p.m. today.

Jazz brunch, Richard Marsters, light jazz with trumpet, flute, guitar and piano, $12.95 buffet, Jumpin’ Jakes Seafood Cafe, Old Orchard Beach. 937-3250. 10 a.m. today and Dec. 11.

Castlebay, holiday Celtic harp concert with Julia Lane and the Auburn Harp Circle, St. Michael’s Episcopal Parish, Auburn, $10, $5 kids. 529-5438. 3 p.m. today.

Raul Malo Christmas Show, Mavericks lead singer with Latin and country influences, Stone Mountain Arts Center, Brownfield, $30. stonemountainartscenter.com. 7:30 p.m. today.

“Just Us Entertainers” Christmas show, holiday music from the 40’s through today, Franco-American Heritage Center, Lewiston, $10, 12 and under $5. francocenter.org. 2 p.m. today.

Christopher Pulsoni, slide guitar, Local Sprouts Cooperative, Portland, free/donation. localsproutscooperative.com. 11 a.m. today.

Edie Carey, Jennifer Kimball and Rose Polenzani, singer-songwriters, One Longfellow Square, Portland, $15 advance, $18 doors. onelongfellowsquare.com. 7 p.m. today.

Azita, The Oak and the Ax, Biddeford, $7. theoakandtheax.blogspot.com. Drag City, 8 p.m. Monday.

Justin Townes Earle, singer-songwriter, Tristen opens, Bates College (Olin Arts Center), Lewiston, $20 advance, $25 doors. 786-6135. 7:30 p.m. Monday.

Bates College Jazz Band, Olin Concert Hall, Lewiston, free, tickets required. 786-6135. 7 p.m. Wednesday.

Old-time music jam, Appalachian music, Local Sprouts Cooperative, Portland, free/donation. localsprouts.cooperative.com. 7 p.m. Wednesday.

A Rockapella Holiday, family-style show, The Landing at Pine Point, Scarborough, $30-$35, under 9 free. thelandingatpinepoint.com. 4 p.m. Thursday.

Down East Singers, “Noel Francais,” a musical tribute to Maine’s French cultural heritage with Christmas choral works, St. Patrick’s Church, Newcastle, $15, 18 and under free. 236-8328. 7:30 p.m. Thursday.

Pretty Girls Sing Soprano, duo, Local Sprouts Cooperative, Portland, free/donation. localsproutscooperative.com. 7 p.m. Thursday.

Lake Street Dive, pop ensemble. Darrell Foster opens, One Longfellow Square, Portland, $12 advance, $15 doors. onelongfellowsquare.com. 8 p.m. Thursday.

Open mic and poetry slam, First Universalist Church of Auburn, Auburn, free. auburnuu.org. 7:15 p.m. Friday.

Eileen Jewell and the Sweetback Sisters, traditional folk, jug band, country, gospel, blues, swing and honky tonk, Strand Theatre, Rockland, $12-$15. rocklandstrand.com. 8 p.m. Friday.

Tibetan singing bowl sound healing concert, with sound healer Lori LeBlanc, Belfast Yoga Studio, Belfast, $5-$15 suggested. 208-7492. 6:45 p.m. Friday.

St. Cecilia Chamber Choir, “A Ceremony of Lessons and Carols,” Second Congregational Church, Newcastle, $15, students free. ceciliachoir.org. 7:30 p.m. Friday.

“Swing Into the Holidays’ Concert, Edith Jones Project, Maine’s only all women big band, Orion Performing Arts Center, Topsham, $10, $5 student, $7 senior. 798-9201. 7 p.m. Friday.

Stone Mountain Live annual Christmas show, hosted by Carol Noonan and the Stone Mountain Boys with special guests The Gibson Brothers, Stone Mountain Arts Center, Brownfield, $49, $79 for dinner seating. stonemountainartscenter.com. 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 4 p.m. Dec. 11.

A Night before Christmas with Spyro Gyra, Jonathan’s Restaurant, Ogunquit, $44.50. 646-4777. 8 p.m. Friday.

The Alumni Band presents “Christmas in the City,” City Theater, Biddeford, $10 advance, $12 doors, bring a new toy to donate. citytheater.org. 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

Down East Singers, “Noel Francais,” a musical tribute to Maine’s French cultural heritage with Christmas choral works, Franco-American Heritage Center, Lewiston, $15, 18 and under free. 236-8328. 7:30 p.m. Friday.

Papadello, folk and pop, Local Sprouts Cooperative, Portland, free/donation. localsproutscooperative.com. 7 p.m. Friday.

Pitch Black Ribbons and Dark Hollow Bottling Co., blues and bluegrass, The Oak and the Ax, Biddeford, $5. theoakandtheax.blogspot.com. 8 p.m. Friday.

Dark Star Orchestra, State Theatre, Portland, $25-$30, all ages, general admission. statetheatreportland.com. 8 p.m. Saturday.

The Coloradas and Eric Bettencourt, The Oak and the Ax, Biddeford, $8. theoakandtheax.blogspot.com. 8 p.m. Saturday.

Jennifer Porter, array of musical styles and lively interplay with band, Saco River Grange Hall, Bar Mills, $14-$16. 929-5412. 7:30 p.m. Saturday.

Day for Night, classic country from Doug Hubley and Gretchen Schaefer, Cornish Inn, Cornish. 625-8501. 7 p.m. Saturday.

Wescustago Youth Chorale, 14th annual winter concert, Freeport Performing Arts Center, $10, $5 students and seniors. 846-0705. 3 p.m. Saturday.

Darol Anger’s Republic of Strings presents Yulegrass, featuring Lauren Rioux on five-string violin and Joe Walsh on mandolin, One Longfellow Square, Portland, $25 advance, $30 doors. onelongfellowsquare.com. 8 p.m. Saturday.

Musica de Filia Holiday Concert, holiday songs by five female choirs with piano, flute, violin and clarinet, South Portland High School auditorium, $10, students $5. 807-2158. musicadefilia.com. 2 p.m. Saturday.

Steve Jones Band, McSeagull’s, Boothbay Harbor. mcseagullsonline.com. 8 p.m. Saturday.

Renaissance Voices Christmas Concert, 21-member a cappella chorus, Sanford-Springvale Historical Museum, Sanford, $15-$10, under 12 free. 324-2797. 7:30 p.m. Saturday.

A John Waters Christmas, adult content not suitable for children, State Theatre, Portland, $31.50-$41.50, $66.50 with meet-and-greet. 7:30 p.m. Dec. 11.

Don Campbell Trio, Christmas concert, Jewett Auditorium, Augusta, $10, $5 students, 12 and under free. 621-3551. 2 p.m. Dec. 11.

Mark Tipton Jazz Concert, Mayo Street Arts, Portland, $8. mayostreetarts.org. 8 p.m. Dec. 11.

Holiday concert with composer Tim Janis, benefits Catherine McAuley High School and Mercy Hospital, Catherine McAuley High School, Portland, $25. 797-3802, ext. 2018. 2 p.m. Dec. 11.

Rock My Soul Rockin’ gospel holiday concert, 20-member secular choir, One Longfellow Square, Portland, $12 advance, $15 doors. onelongfellowsquare.com. 4 p.m. Dec. 11.

Bluegrass jam session, unplugged string instruments only, Roost Function Hall, Buxton, $5, kids with adult free. 799-1232. 1 to 6 p.m. Dec. 11.

Down East Singers, “Noel Francais,” a musical tribute to Maine’s French cultural heritage with Christmas choral works, Camden Opera House, $15, 18 and under free. 236-8328. 2:30 p.m. Dec. 11.

Sean Mencher, ’50s rockabilly music, Local Sprouts Cooperative, Portland, free/donation. localsproutscooperative.com. 11 a.m. Dec. 11.

Tibetan singing bowl sound healing concert, with Lori LeBlanc, musician and sound healer, Thomaston Yoga Studio, Thomaston, $5-$15, suggested. 208-7492. 4:30 p.m. Dec. 11.

Voice students of Michelle Snow, jazz and pop, Olin Concert Hall, Lewiston, free, tickets required. 786-6135. 3 p.m. Dec. 11.

Special Events

MERI Holidays, family party, Marine Environmental Research Institute, Blue Hill, free. 374-2135. 2 to 4 p.m. today.

National Theater in London: Live, “Collaborators,” encore matinee broadcast, Lincoln Theater, Damariscotta, $15. 563-3424. 1 p.m. today.

Gingerbread house competition, benefits Ronald McDonald House, Residence Inn by the Marriott, Portland. 761-1660. Ongoing; auction on December 16.

Seventh Annual Festival of Gingerbread Houses, York Public Library. 363-2818. Ongoing through Dec. 17.

“Polar Air Mail Express” and holiday concert, Santa arrives via plane, demo of Polar Air Mail Express and music from Mid-Coast Community Band, Owls Head Transportation Museum, free. ohtm.org. Today.

Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad “Polar Express” train rides, Ocean Gateway Terminal, Portland, $25-$40. porttix.com. Ongoing through Dec. 23.

Festival of Trees, benefits Westbrook charities, live entertainment. westbrookfestivaloftrees.com. Check website for times and locations.

25th Annual Harbor Lights Festival, various locations, Boothbay Harbor. boothbayharbor.com. Today.

Share the Wonder, seasonal celebration with the Wyeth family features an exhibit of holiday art and artifacts and a large model train set, Farnsworth Art Museum, Rockland. 596-6457. Penobscot Bay Ringers Bell Choir, 3 p.m. today; Camden Hills Regional High School Women’s Choir and Chamber Singers, 4 p.m. Thursday; Bay Chamber’s Odeon Quartet, 1 p.m. Saturday; “Patch Scratching” book signing with Steven Powell and Tom Block, 3:30 p.m. Saturday.

Sit with Santa, for dogs and their companions, Planet Dog Company Store, Portland, $10. planetdog.com. 10 a.m. to noon and 1 to 3 p.m. today.

“Season of Light” holiday show, history and astronomy of the solstice, New Year’s, Hanukkah and Christmas, University of Southern Maine (Southworth Planetarium), Portland, $4-$6. 3 p.m. today; 7 p.m. Friday.

“Deck the Halls: The Carols of Christmas,” Christmas at the Victoria Mansion, Portland, $15, seniors, $13.50, ages 6 to 17 $5. victoriamansion.org. Daily through Jan. 8.

“Celebrate the Season by the Sea,” Santa and Mrs. Claus, parade, musical performances, hay rides, treats, more, Old Orchard Beach. 934-2500. 1 p.m. today.

Handmade cards and reproduced packages, benefits Partners in Health in Haiti, Noteworthy Pop-Up Store, Camden. noteworthypih.org. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. today.

Ye Olde Sweet Shoppe, homemade candies and cookies sale, Alfred Shaker Museum. alfredshakermuseum.com. 1 to 4 p.m. today.

“A Red Hot Christmas,” trees decorated by 22 area businesses, Winter Street Center, Bath. 443-4112. Tuesday and Wednesday.

Port Veritas spoken-word night, weekly poetry reading, Local Sprouts Cooperative, Portland, free/donation. localsproutscooperative.com. 7 p.m. Tuesday.

Ten-Year Anniversary Celebration, live music from Local Circus (upbeat acoustic folk and bluegrass), Horny Toad, Freeport. 865-0082. 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesday.

Holiday Open House, Victorian Christmas tree, holiday goodies and holiday music by the Chopin Club, Walker Memorial Library, Westbrook. 854-0630. 3 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 8.

A Brief History of Porn with Sam Benjamin, multi-media lecture, Space, Portland, $5, 18-plus. space538.org. 7:30 p.m. Thursday.

“IBEX-Search for the Solar System’s Edge,” University of Southern Maine,Southworth Planetarium, Portland, $4-$6. usm.maine.edu/planet. 8:30 p.m. Friday.

“About Face,” session with professional portrait photographer, benefits the library, Merrill Memorial Library, Yarmouth. 846-1336. 6 p.m. Friday.

The Ugly Sweater Scavenger Hunt, hunt to find 12 hidden elves around the mall, $1,000 shopping spree and iPad prize, after party at Jimmy the Greek’s, Maine Mall, Center Court, South Portland, $10, per team of two, adults only. portsportsmaine.com. 7 p.m. Friday.

Yule Revel, tree lighting, book signings, crafts, photography exhibit, more, Penobscot Marine Museum, Searsport. penobscotmarinemuseum.org. 4:30 to 7:15 p.m. Friday.

Gingerbread Spectacular, Opera House at Boothbay Harbor, free. 633-5159. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Dec. 11.

The Metropolitan Opera: Live in HD, “Faust,” Lincoln Theater, Damariscotta, $23, seniors $21. atthelincoln.org. 12:55 p.m. Saturday.

East End Holiday Stroll, special store events and other activities happening in east Bayside. Shuttle available, East End, Portland. 253-8000. eastendshops.com. noon to 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 10.

North Pole Express Train Rides, steam-heated train ride with story-telling and Santa Claus, Boothbay Railway Village, Boothbay, $10. railwayvillage.org. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday.

Carolyn Currie, haunting, enchanting music, University of Southern Maine, Southworth Planetarium, Portland, $8, kids $6. usm.maine.edu/planet. 7 p.m. Saturday.

Longfellow Family Christmas, Wadsworth-Longfellow House, Portland, $8, ages 3 to 18 $7. 774-1822, ext. 212. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday.

The Metropolitan Opera: Live in HD, “Faust,” Fryeburg Academy (Leura Hill Eastman Performing Arts Center), Fryeburg, $23-$26, students $18. 935-9232. 1 p.m. Saturday.

Reading of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol,” Ten Bucks Theatre Company, Bangor Public Library, free. 947-8336. 2 p.m. Saturday.

Cheap art sale and variety show, locally made arts and crafts for sale with music from Meghan Yates, Local Sprouts Cooperative, Portland, free/donation. localsproutscooperative.com. 5 p.m. Saturday.

Tree lighting, Christmas carols, hot chocolate, Santa, Centennial Hall, Harpswell. 666-3247. 5 p.m. Saturday.

27th annual Christmas parade, “A Country Christmas” theme, Wells. southernmaineparade.com. 2 p.m. Dec. 11.

Brick Store Museum’s 8th Annual Holiday Tea, sip tea while learning about tea and its customs and history, sweet treats and tea sandwiches, Bourne Mansion, Kennebunk, $20, 14 and under $7.50. 985-4802. 3 to 5 p.m. Dec. 11.

Sports

Maine Red Claws, minor league basketball, Portland Exposition Building, Portland, $6-$30. 210-6655; nba.com/dleague. Vs. Fort Wayne, 5 p.m. today.

Theater

American Irish Repertory Ensemble presents “A Celtic Christmas,” holiday celebration of performance, song and dance, Lucid Stage, Portland, $18-$22, under 12 $12. 799-5327. 2 p.m. today; 7:30 p.m. Tuesday through Friday; 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday; 2 p.m. Dec. 11.

“The Best Christmas Pageant Ever,” Schoolhouse Arts Center, Standish, $12, seniors and students $8. 642-3743. 2 p.m. today.

“Meet Me in St. Louis,” Lyric Music Theater, South Portland, $21.99. lyricmusictheater.org. 2:30 p.m. today.

“Broadway at Good Theater,” St. Lawrence Arts Center, Portland, $25-$30. 885-5883. Broadway hits and holiday favorites, 2 p.m. today.

David Sedaris’ “Santaland Diaries,” funny one-man show, adult content, Portland Stage Company (Studio Theater), Portland, $20, students $17. portlandstage.org. 5:30 and 7:30 p.m. today; 7:30 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday; 2:30 and 7:30 p.m. Thursday; 7:30 p.m. Friday; 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday; 2:30 and 5:30 p.m. Dec. 11. Through Dec. 18.

Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol,” Nasson Community Center (Little Theatre), Springvale, $12, seniors and students $10. sanfordmainestage.com. 3 p.m. today; 10 a.m. Friday.

“A Holiday Visit with Ida,” one-woman show with Susan Poulin, Woodfords Congregational Church, Portland, $15. 774-7200. 2 p.m. today.

“The Wandering Beggar,” celebrating Jewish culture, Acorn Studios, Westbrook, $15, students and seniors $12. 854-0065. 2 p.m. today; 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 2 p.m. Dec. 11. Through Dec. 18.

Freeport Players presents “WFCP’s Home Time Radio Hour 2011,” live band with original jingles and comedy, Freeport Performing Arts Center, $10 advance, $15 doors. fcponline.org. 2 p.m. today.

Acorn Productions’ “Naked Shakespeare Performances,” The Wine Bar & Restaurant, Portland, $8 suggested. 854-0065. “Lovers and Cross Dressers,” 8 p.m. Monday.

Mark Ravenhill’s “Pool (No Water),” performance by voice and speech students, Bates College, Gannett Theater, Lewiston, free. 786-6135. 7 p.m. Wednesday.

“Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!), funny musical, Schoolhouse Arts Center, Standish, $14, students and seniors $12. 642-3743.

7:30 p.m. Thursday; 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 2 p.m. Dec. 11. Through Dec. 17.

Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol,” one-man show with minimal props, Freeport Factory Stage, $10-$12. freeportfactory.com. 7 p.m. Thursday through Saturday; 2 p.m. Dec. 11.

Gilbert and Sullivan’s “The Mikado,” joint production of the high school theater program and chorus, Falmouth High School, $7, $5. falmouththeatre.org. 7:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday; 3 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday.

Studio Theatre of Bath presents “The Greatest Christmas Pageant Ever,” Chocolate Church Arts Center, Bath, $13-$15. 442-8455. 7:30 p.m. Friday; 7:30 p.m. Saturday; 2 p.m. Dec. 11. Through Dec. 18.

“Miracles on School Street,” all-ages collaboration to celebrate the season, Theater Project, Brunswick, $12. theaterproject.com. 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 2 p.m. Dec. 11. Through Sunday, Dec. 18.

“Love’s Old Sweet Song,” actress and soprano Janet Lynch portrays Molly Bloom from Joyce’s “Ulysses,” Mayo Street Arts, Portland, $10. mayostreetarts.org. 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

Oscar Wilde’s “The Importance of Being Earnest,” presented by the Feeney Players, St. Joseph’s College (Viola George Auditorium), Standish, $10, 18 and under $5. 893-7723. 7 p.m. Friday; 2 and 7 p.m. Saturday; 2 p.m. Dec. 11.

Covelight Productions presents “The Gift of the Magi,” holiday musical adaptation set in 1940s Maine, Williston-Immanuel United Chruch, portland, $15, 17 and under $10. (603) 953-3640. 8 p.m. Friday; 2 and 8 p.m. Saturday.

Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol,” six actors and a fiddler, Public Theatre, Lewiston, $18, kids $5. thepublictheatre.org. 7 p.m. Friday; 2 and 7 p.m. Saturday; 2 p.m. Dec. 11.

“Seussical the Musical,” Midcoast Youth Theater family show, Midcoast Performing Arts Center, Brunswick, $10, seniors and students $8. youth-theater.org/index.html. 7 p.m. Friday; 7 p.m. Saturday; 2 p.m. Dec. 11. Through Dec. 17.

“Christmas With the Rat Pack,” Anthony’s Dinner Theater, Portland, $39.99, includes 5-course dinner. 221-2267. 7 p.m. Saturday.

“Pinocchio,” presented by Heartwood Theater, Lincoln Academy (Parker B. Poe Theater), Newcastle, $8, students $5. 563-1373. 4 and 7 p.m. Saturday.

Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol,” presented by New Surry Theater of Blue Hill and the opera house, Stonington Opera House, $12. 367-2788. 7 p.m. Saturday.