We've all heard of Christmas and Hanukkah and Kwanzaa, and most of us remember that the Winter Solstice happens pretty soon (Dec. 22), too. Some may even observe Festivus [1], a more recently developed holiday noted for such rituals as the Airing of Grievances and Feats of Strength.
But what about all the holiday-themed events that fall through the cracks? The things you see listed and wonder about. "Who goes to these events?" you ask yourself. "I mean, really -- who? I'm actually curious!"
Well, dear reader, that "who?" could be you.
We think these events deserve to take their rightful place among such favorite holiday activities as caroling and kissing under the mistletoe. This year, surprise and delight yourself by wandering off the beaten holiday path... and into one of these intriguing scenarios.
Pet Holiday Photos with Elvis [1]: Santa is so passé. This year at Kirkland's Planet Poochie, Fido and Mitsy will learn that once you go King, you never go back. Best of all, the proceeds benefit animal charities.
Preparing for the Winter Solstice [1]: Get in touch with your inner pagan and release the burdens you've accumulated this year during an afternoon of "guided imagery and shamanic ceremony" at Capitol Hill's Theosophical Society.
Photos with the Santa Clam [1]: Who else but Ivar's would invite children to have their picture taken with giant shellfish? Okay, maybe the Flaming Lips, but in this case it's Ivar's.
A Very Elvis Christmas [1]: Yep, more Elvis, but we're not complaining. Kids can get photographed with the King at Roosevelt's Pop Tots children's boutique, as the singer's Yuletide tunes play in the background. There'll be prizes and treats, but probably not Elvis-shaped Christmas cookies. Sorry.
Winter Holidays Puppet Show [1]: Flesh-and-blood holiday performers getting you down? Trek out to Everett for an afternoon of festive puppet plays, including "It's December 24th!" and "The Hanukkah Guest." Kids and their parents will get plenty of time to meet the puppets after the show; no need to stand out in the alley in the cold rain hoping for an autograph.
Monorail Holiday Express [1]: Okay, okay. So sue us. This event does involve Santa, though he'll be visiting with children in an unusual place: the Monorail. Our advice: While you're chatting him up, ask him to pay a visit to the South Lake Union Streetcar [2] before the holiday season is over.
Copyright © 2008 The Seattle Times Company
