Things to Do Around Monroe

If you have finished digging out from yesterday's blizzard and can think ahead again, here is a look at what is happening in our area in the upcoming week:

~ On Friday evening, the Monroe Arts Center plays host to the Community Sing Along starting at 7 pm. Patrick Beckman will play the piano, and the audience will be directed by the Allen Redford, Director of Choral Music at Highland College. Songs will include traditional holiday fare such as Deck the Halls, Jingle Bells, White Christmas, Silent Night, and Joy to the World. Prior to the singing, there will be a reception from 6 until 7 to close the annual holiday Silent Auction. It will be your last chance to bid on great items in this annual fund-raising event.

~ Trolley Rides will leave from Monroe's Downtown Square this Friday evening to highlight the entrants in the annual Holiday Lighting Contest. The trolley stop is on the southeast corner by Das Baumhaus.

~ No time for holiday baking? Stop by St John's in Monroe for their annual holiday cookie and candy sale. A huge variety of goods will be available including traditional Swiss bratzeli and much more. All cookies are $6 per pound, stop in any time between 8 am and 1 pm.

~ Freeport Public Library has a children's book drive going on through December 15. Bring in a new or slightly used children's book for donation to local non-profits to distribute to children in need in the Freeport Area.

~ If the kids are looking to give their Santa lists to the big guy in person, he is making some local stops this weekend. He will be at the Monticello Fire Department from 11 am until 1 pm on Saturday, the Monroe Public Library from 10 am until noon and 1 until 3 pm, the Lena Fire Station from 8 until 11 am, the Freeport Public Library at 10 am for storytime and from 2 until 4 for visiting, McConnell Historical Society at 1 pm.

~ Monroe Lego Club meets this Saturday from 10 am until 1pm at the Monroe Public Library. This free event is open to Lego-lovers of all ages. Children under 10 must have an adult in the library. Bring your creations to share. Bricks are provided; please do not bring your own to prevent mix-ups.

~ Opening night for Monroe Theatre Guild's production of A Christmas Carol is Saturday evening. There will be a 7:30 show this Saturday, as well as Thursday, Friday and Saturday of next week along with 2 pm matinees on this Sunday and next. Tickets are available at the door, $12 for members and $15 for non-members.

~ After you warm up your singing voice at the MAC, switch gears and head over to Leisure Lanes in Monroe on Saturday evening. They are hosting a Karaoke night with DJ Jackie Lee in Spirits Bar and Grill.