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Arts & Entertainment

5 Things You Need To Know Today: Klezmer, The Nutcracker, and More

Area events and information you won't want to miss on Christmas Eve.

1. You need a good game of chess. Stop by the for a friendly game or a fierce competition. All levels are welcome. Chess boards and pieces will be provided. 10 Grand Army Plaza. 4pm. 

2. You need the kids to stop asking for presents. Gleaming lights of all colors shimmer in many homes during December, celebrating holidays that cherish joy, hope, and family. Explore the in the stories and traditions of Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa at the Brooklyn Children's Museum today at 1:30pm. You even get to decorate a holiday candle-holder to take home! 145 Brooklyn Ave. Free with $7.50 admission. Children under one year are admitted free of charge.

3. You still need the kids to stop asking for presents. Visit the Totally Tots Art Studio at the and see what activity is in store for your young Picasso. Art Works takes place every friday at 11:30am and 2:30pm. Suitable for ages five and under. 145 Brooklyn Ave. Free with $7.50 admission. Children under one year are admitted free of charge.

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4. You need to go somewhere festive this Christmas Eve. There are only nine performances of The Nutcracker at the . Performed with a live orchestra, together with extraordinary sets and costumes by Tony Award-winner Richard Hudson (The Lion King), this holiday tradition is right around the corner. 30 Layfayette Ave. $20-95

5. You need some Yiddish music. According to the folks at , "December 24th has proven to be an exceptionally lovely evening for klezmer, for no particular reason that we can ascertain, really." The evening features Ben Holmes (trumpet), Karen Waltuch (viola), Reuben Radding (bass), Uri Sha lin (accordion) and special guests. So skip the movie this year, and check out this klezmer show. Barbes, 376 9th St. 8pm.

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