Weekend Planner: Christmas Ships, Women's Annual Christmas Brunch, 12Ks of Christmas Run and More!

It’s Thursday, and you have no idea what you’ll do for the weekend. 

Mercer Island Patch is coming to the rescue. We have the best bets for your done-with-work-outta-here time. Check our picks for the activities to hit and new bars, restaurants and shops to explore.

Christmas Ships Return

• Where/When: , 7:55-8:20 p.m. on Fri., Dec. 16 
• Why Go: Join carolers on the Christmas Ships by singing from the beach in this long-running Puget Sound tradition.
• Cost: Free!

• Where/When: 9-11:30 p.m. on Sat, Dec. 17 at .
• Why Go: Make your reservations now for the annual Women's Christmas Brunch happening this Saturday at the Mercer island Covenant Church. After the brunch, enjoy a performance from the super popular singing group, The Three Wisemen.
• Pricing: $15 per person

• Where/When: 5:30-8:30 p.m. on Sat, Dec. 17 at .
• Why Go: Celebrate Hanukkah under the stars this Saturday with the Stroum Jewish Community Center. The event will feature the Seattle kids rock band, The Not Its as well as opening acts by PJ Library and The Sababas. Check out this music video by The Not Its to get an idea of what you're in for. Dinner will be available for purchase from Stopsky's Delicatessen, Island Crust Pizza or Kosher Chinese.
• Pricing: Free admission with donation of oil for the JFS Food Bank.

• Where/When: 12-6 p.m. on Fri, Dec. 16 at the .
• Why Go: Friday is your last chance to visit the Mercer Island Visual Arts League's Holiday show at the CCMV. Browse the wall art as well as the many one-of-a-kind holiday gift items including ornaments, jewelry, ceramics, glass, scarves, and more.  
• Pricing: Admission is free.
  

• Where/When: 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday at Carlson Theatre.
• Why Go: Cornerstone Studio presents its annual production of Tchaikovsky's The Nutcracker. With a cast of more than 60 dancers portraying the beloved characters of Clara, the Nutcracker Prince, playful mice, toy soldiers, the Sugar Plum Fairy, and more, this ballet is a favorite holiday tradition. Gorgeous costumes and sets make this timeless performance truly unforgettable. Great for the entire family!
• Pricing: Prices are $20 in advance or $22 at the door.

• Where/When: 1-4 p.m. on Sun, Dec. 18 at Beadmin Central located in the bottom of the , between Baskins Robbins and QFC.
• Why Go: Looking for a easy arts and craft project? Check out this free Wire Fairy Ornament Workshop on Sunday. Come enjoy treats and refreshments while creating with your hands. The workshop will be lead by Nannette Bassett of Beadmine Central.
• Pricing: Free.
  

• Where/When: 7 p.m. on Friday, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Saturday and 2 p.m. on Sunday at the .
• Why Go: KPC's annual sell-out variety show is a true holiday classic, featuring comedians, live music, choirs, specialty acts and surprise guest artists. A perfect dose of entertainment for visiting friends and family of all ages.
• Pricing: Tickets range between $15 and $27.

• Where/When: 9:30 a.m. on Sun, Dec. 18 at in Kirkland.
• Why Go: Join in on this holiday tradition as over 2,500 people take part in this Sunday’s 12K & 5K run/walk at Marina Park. The event includes a free kids dash and a post-race celebration area with exhibitor booths and free food. Holiday costumes are encouraged.
• Pricing: Registration fees range between $30 and $45.