At a glance: The stars are brightly shining

For everyone who likes Christmas light displays, the sky is putting on a spectacular display on Dec. 13 and 14 with the Geminid meteor shower. The Moon is in the new moon phase so it will not diminish the shower of an expected two meteors per minute. The peak shower period should be around 2 a.m. so get those Santa wishes ready. Set the alarm and bundle up for an enlightening night.

 

Happy Holly Hills

The residents of Holly Hills Lane in Cameron Park are putting on a wonderful display of decorations for all to enjoy. The neighborhood’s festival of lights is a treat and the best part is that the families on Holly Hills collect food for food baskets. On Friday, Dec. 14 the Cameron Park Santa Parade makes its annual visit to the lane and then on Saturday, Dec. 15 the lighting party is set for 6 p.m. When out and about drive by and enjoy this show of community spirit.

 

Take a tour

The Wakamatsu Historical Tours continue on Saturday, Dec. 15 from 10 a.m. to noon. Trained docents conduct a historical tour of the property recently acquired by American River Conservancy. The ranch has springs, streams, wetlands, blue and live oak forest, sweeping vistas and exceptional agricultural soil. The property is not only beautiful but rich in history. It was the Wakamatsu Tea and Silk Farm, the first Japanese Colony site established in America in 1869. The tour will showcase the Graner house, dairy, barn, property and gravesite. The tour is best suited for adults and children 12 and over. Call 530-621-1224 for the meeting location in the Gold Hill area. Cost is $5 for children and $10 for adults.

 

Art demonstration

Art on Divide Gallery, 6295 Main St. in Georgetown, is having artist demonstrations on Saturday, Dec. 15. from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Kay de Lange is showing her techniques on hand building her ceramic vessels using coils and a paddle. She is also showing her burnishing techniques. From 1 to 3 p.m. David Blonski is performing some of his music and explaining how he layers the many instruments he plays and makes. He will then talk about his fractal art, and show how it relates to his music. Stop by to see these talented individuals and see all the wonderful art at the co-op gallery. For more information call 530-333-2787 or visit artonthedivide.com .

 

Luncheon

The El Dorado County Historical Society Christmas luncheon is Saturday, Dec. 15 at noon at Cold Springs Country Club, 6500 Club House Drive in Placerville. Everyone is invited. Reservations are required and can be made by calling Kay Murdock at 530-626-7073. Cost is $20 per person. The speakers are Paul and Melanie Kramer on “Wagons Ho!” — What to take and not to take on a 2,000 mile trek in a covered wagon according to the Wagon Train Captains and rules.

 

Holiday fun

Chevalier Winery, 5720 French Creek Road in Shingle Springs, continues its holiday celebration on Sundays and Saturdays from noon to 5 p.m. before Christmas. There will be wine tasting and wine specials, plus exclusive gifts like high fashion T-shirts for women, fun T-shirts for men, candelabras, wine bags, hand-made, artsy holiday cards and more. For more information call 530 677-1676 or check out chevalierwinery.com.

 

Sweater time

Mount Aukum Winery, 6781 Tower Road, is honoring the holiday season with an Ugly Christmas Sweater Appreciation Month. Find that special sweater and e-mail a photo to the winery or better yet, stop by wearing the sweater. Sweater fashionistas will receive a discount on purchases through Dec. 31. For all the details call 530- 620-1675.

 

Show time

The El Dorado County Library, 345 Fair Lane in Placerville, is showing the film “Dark Knight Rises” at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 15. The free movie is a nice break from holiday shopping. For more information on this free public event, visit the Library Programs and Events calendar on the library’s Website eldoradolibrary.org or contact the library at 530-621-5540.

 

Christmas concert

The Cantare Chorale Winter Concert is Sunday, Dec 16 at 4 p.m. at the Placerville Church of the Nazarene, 6040 Mother Lode Drive in Placerville. Tickets for the wonderful concert of traditional and not-so-traditional are $12 for adults and $5 for students. For more information visit cantarechorale.com/.

 

See the lights

Mountain Democrat readers are invited to call Mimi Escabar at 530-344-5070 with tips about Christmas light displays.

 

Toy donations

Toys for Tots volunteers are still collecting toys. Many businesses have toy barrels and are accepting donations. Every toy donated stays in El Dorado County and goes to our children. For more information call 530-344-9384.