Library offers warm winter activities during break

So, the weather outside is frightful, the kids are home on break and starting to climb the walls, and you are going a bit stir crazy.

If this is the scenario at your house in a week or so, the Palatine library is offering some winter break programs.

From Dec. 26 to Jan. 5, everyone can play a giant "I Spy a Winter Wonderland" game. Spy the answers and enter a drawing to win a prize. Then drop in the library anytime between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. Dec. 27 and create a winter craft.

Bring your teddy bear or other favorite stuffed toy to the library at 3 p.m. Jan. 2 for a Teddy Bear Tea Party. Parents and grandparents are welcome.

From 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Jan. 3, all ages can play classic board games and crossword puzzles. Finally, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Jan. 4 and 10:30 a.m. to noon Jan. 5, meet "Rotten Ralph." Watch Ralph's antics and listen to a few stories of his adventures.

The library is at 700 N. North Court. For details about programs, call (847) 358-5881 or visit www.palatinelibrary.org

Santa sightings: In all my talk about Santa coming to town in my column last week, I completely forgot to mention one unique Santa opportunity.

Theatre Nebula is presenting "The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus" at 7 p.m. today, Saturday, Dec. 21 and 22, and 3 p.m. Saturday, Sunday, Dec. 22 and 23, at Cutting Hall, 150 E. Wood St.

Tickets cost $12 for adults, $10 for seniors and students, and $8 for children younger than 12.

For details, visit www.theatrenebula.org.

Happy holidays: This column will be on hiatus for the next three weeks. You may, however, spot me madly running around town buying Christmas presents since I seem to be woefully behind. I wish everyone a wonderful holiday season and a happy new year. I thank you for reading my column. Please continue to send me your Palatine news in the coming year.