sparkle in December

With Sparklefest already underway it is easy to see why Harvard Square literally shines this time of year. Sparklefest features so many activities that we couldn't possibly list them all, but have tried to highlight a few of our favorites. The month gets off to a running start on Sunday, December 2^nd with the Yulefest 5K taking place in and around Harvard Square. The following weekends, treat you taste buds to the multiple flavors of the season. On Saturday, December 8^th, celebrate the start of Hanukah with Everyone Loves Latkes. On Sunday, December 16^th get into the Christmas spirit by having Breakfast with Santa at the Inn at Harvard.

If you feel the need to burn off a few of those extra calories, on December 16^th, you may wish to head off to the Charles Hotel and open up the ice skating rink for the season.  The opening of the rink at the Charles Hotel is family friendly event that can truly be enjoyed by everyone.

Should you prefer to burn though that long list of gifts to buy, check out the Harvard Square Holiday Fair taking place on selective dates throughout December. You are sure to find just the right and unique gift for anyone on your list.

With all the hurrying around this time of the year, it can be nice to take the time to enjoy the season. The Choir of St. Paul’s will be celebrating the season with music on December 21^st, 23^rd, and 24^th.The December 23^rd performance features an organ recital.

The above events are just a few of the many, many events going on in the area this month. For more information about Sparklefest events please visit http://www.harvardsquare.com/Home/Articles/Sparklefest-2012-in-Harvard-Square!.aspx. Please keep in mind that while some of the events are free, some require an admission and some require advanced tickets.

Finally, at the end of the month (and year) comes one of Boston’s biggest celebrations of the year. First night has been a tradition in Boston for 35 years and each year it just keeps growing. With family friendly events throughout the city and two fireworks displays (an early smaller one for everyone who can’t stay up and a larger one at midnight to mark the new year), First night is the party of the year in Boston. First Night buttons are required for admission to most indoor performances, but outdoor activities, including the magnificent ice sculptures on Boston Common are free. First Night buttons may be purchased at many local businesses. Please visit http://www.firstnight.org/ for a schedule of events and First Night button details.

We at Harding House wish you all a wonderful holiday season and a joyful New Year!

November happenings...

Music, food and out of this world experiences are just a few of things Harvard Square has to offer this November.

The Fourth Annual Folk Music History Month in Harvard Square will feature live music, lectures and special movie events at various venues across Harvard Square all month long. This celebration of folk music in all its forms is sure to have something for everyone. For more information and to see the schedule of events please visit http://www.harvardsquare.com/Home/Articles/Forever-Young--The-4th-Annual-Folk-Music-History-M.aspx .

With all the weather changes this time of year, you might think that this planet is a little strange, however, the Harvard Smithsonian Center Astrophysics public event this month will make you feel like you live a perfectly normal planet, comparatively speaking. On Thursday, November 15th, "Strange planetary vistas from Kepler" will the topic of discussion at the Center. The focus of the discussion will be on the incredible diversity of planets observed of  NASA's Kepler mission. For more information please visit http://www.cfa.harvard.edu/events/mon.html . Just remember that as strange as things are around here, at least we are not orbiting two suns.

Not orbiting two suns is just one of things we can be thankful for around here. What are you thankful for this Thanksgiving? Well, for some of us, we can be thankful that we don't have to cook on Thanksgiving. For your convince and true treat for your taste palate, many of the restaurants in Harvard Square will not only be open on Thanksgiving Day (November 22nd), but many of them will be offer special  menus choice and selected wine pairings. Check out http://www.harvardsquare.com/Home/News/Come-Celebrate-Thanksgiving-in-Harvard-Square.aspx for more information and samples of the menu offerings at many of the restaurants serving up special menus. Please note that reservations are highly recommended.

We at Harding House wish you a wonderful November and hope that no matter where your plans take you, you remember to enjoy the ride as well as the destination. 

-Audra