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Singer-songwriter John Legend will perform Jan. 12 at the Paramount Theatre in Oakland.

A note on prices: Ticketmaster will no longer provide ticket prices on all shows. Visit www.ticketmaster.com for ticket prices.

ON SALE TODAY

Disney's High School Musical-The Ice Tour, Feb. 4-8, Selland Arena, Fresno.

CONTINUING

Adele, Jan. 29, The Fillmore, San Francisco.

Avenged Sevenfold and Buckcherry, Feb. 3, Oracle Arena, Oakland.

Sandra Bernhard, Jan. 16-17, Herbst Theatre, San Francisco.

Andrew Bird, Feb. 19-20, The Fillmore, San Francisco.

Blondie, Feb. 25, The Fillmore, San Francisco.

Broadway Sacramento's 2008-09 season series, featuring "Stomp," ends today; Community Center Theater; $16.50-$69.

California Musical Theatre's "Forever Plaid," through Feb. 1, Cosmopolitan Cabaret, $32-$57.

Bill Cosby, Feb. 14, Paramount Theatre, Oakland.

Dame Edna, ends today, Post Street Theatre, San Francisco, $55-$100.

Disney's High School Musical – The Ice Tour, Feb. 11-16, Arco Arena.

Disturbed, Sevendust, Skindred, Jan. 26, Arco Arena.

Jeff Dunham, April 16, Arco Arena.

Eagles of Death Metal, Feb. 5, The Fillmore, San Francisco.

Bill Engvall, Jan. 23, Bob Hope Theatre, Stockton, $34.25, $49.25.

Harlem Globetrotters, Jan. 19, Arco Arena.

Indigenous, Feb. 13, Jackson Rancheria Casino and Hotel, Jackson.

Sharon Jones and the Dapkings, Jan. 28, The Warfield, San Francisco.

Mickey Joseph, Feb. 5, Jackson Rancheria Casino and Hotel, Jackson.

Femi Kuti, Jan. 22, The Fillmore, San Francisco.

Labelle, Jan. 30, Paramount Theatre, Oakland.

John Legend, Jan. 12, Paramount Theatre, Oakland.

Lykke Li, Feb. 15, The Fillmore, San Francisco.

Dropkick Murphys, Feb. 21, The Warfield, San Francisco.

Willie Nelson, Jan. 16-20, The Fillmore, San Francisco.

Oakland East Bay Symphony, through May 15, Paramount Theatre, Oakland.

Larry Omaha, Thursday, Jackson Rancheria Casino and Hotel, Jackson.

PBR: Professional Bull Riders, Jan. 17-18, Arco Arena.

Pepper, Jan. 23, The Warfield, San Francisco.

Katy Perry, Jan. 28, The Fillmore, San Francisco.

Tyler Perry's "The Marriage Counselor," Jan. 16-18, Paramount Theatre, Oakland.

"The Phantom of the Opera," ends today, Orpheum Theatre, San Francisco.

Pitbull, Jan. 22, The Warfield, San Francisco.

Playhouse Disney Live! On Tour, Friday, Paramount Theatre, Oakland; Saturday, San Jose Civic Auditorium, San Jose.

Rebelution, Jan. 23, San Francisco.

Andre Rieu, June 17, Arco Arena.

Smokey Robinson, Jan. 24, Paramount Theatre, Oakland.

Sacramento Opera's 2008-09 series, featuring "The Marriage of Figaro," Feb. 27, March 1, 3; "La Bohème," May 8, 10, 12; Community Center Theater, $15-$115.

Ron Shock, March 5, Jackson Rancheria Casino and Hotel, Jackson.

Slipknot, March 11, Arco Arena.

Smuckers Stars on Ice, Jan. 29, Arco Arena.

Britney Spears, April 11, Arco Arena.

Valentine's Super Love Jam, featuring Atlantic Starr, Zapp, Heatwave, the Delfonics, the Originals, others, Feb. 7, Arco Arena.

Voices of Latin Rock, Jan. 24, The Warfield, San Francisco.

The Walkmen, Jan. 21, The Fillmore, San Francisco.

FOR INFORMATION

Call tickets.com at (800) 225-2277 or Ticketmaster at (916) 649-8497. (Arco Arena tickets available only through Ticketmaster.) Community Center Theater at (916) 808-5181, or call individual venues. All tickets subject to service charge.

Singer-songwriter Peter Rowan will bring his musical mixture to The Palms in Winters on Friday.

Today

Comedy

Michael Loftus

WHAT: The stand-up comic, founder of the Midwest Comedy Tool & Die troupe and writer for the George Lopez TV series performs.

WHEN: 8 tonight

WHERE: Laughs Unlimited, 1207 Front St., Old Sacramento

COST: $10

INFORMATION: (916) 446-8128

– Jim Carnes

Thursday

Art exhibit

'Subject/verb/object'

WHAT: This exhibit of works by artist-designer Simon Johnston is an investigation of the role that typography and language play in art.

WHEN: Regular museum hours (noon- 4 p.m. Monday-Friday, 2-4 p.m. Sunday) through March 8. Free designer's talk with Johnston: 6:30 p.m. Jan. 29 at 176 Everson Hall (behind the Design Museum).

WHERE: Design Museum, 145 Walker Hall, UC Davis

COST: Free admission

INFORMATION: (530) 752-6150

– Jim Carnes

Friday

Live music

Peter Rowan Bluegrass Band

WHAT: A master of bluegrass, country and folk music, Peter Rowan is a great singer, a wonderful guitar and mandolin player, and a tremendously talented songwriter ("Panama Red"). His work extends and integrates the boundaries of country, bluegrass, folk, Tex Mex, hippie rock and more.

WHEN: 8:30 p.m.

WHERE: The Palms, 13 Main St., Winters

COST: $20

INFORMATION: (530) 795-1825

– Jim Carnes

Friday-next Sunday

Comedy

Bobby Lee from 'Mad TV'

WHAT: The actor and stand-up comic performs five shows this weekend.

WHEN: 8:30 and 10:30 p.m. today and Saturday, 8:30 p.m. Sunday

WHERE: Punch Line, 2400 Arden Way, Sacramento

COST: $18-$22

INFORMATION: (530) 795-1825

– Jim Carnes

Saturday

Family fun

'What's Opera, Doc?'

WHAT: The Crocker Art Museum's Second Saturday for Families features performers from the Sacramento Opera sharing classic pieces of classical music in Warner Bros. cartoons. (The exhibition "The Art of Warner Bros. Cartoons" continues at the Crocker through Jan. 18.)

WHEN: Noon and 2 p.m.

WHERE: Sierra 2 Center, 2791 24th St., Sacramento

COST: Free

INFORMATION: (916) 808-7000, www.crockerartmuseum.org

– Dixie Reid

Saturday

Lecture

'Red Lights and Sirens'

WHAT: Jim Richter leads a gallery walk through the museum's new exhibit of vintage emergency vehicles, which includes an 1894 horse-drawn wagon and a 1930 fire engine.

WHEN: 2:30-4 p.m.

WHERE: Towe Auto Museum, 2200 Front St.

COST: $7 general, $6 ages 65-plus, $3 students with ID

WHERE: Towe Auto Museum, 2200 Front St.

INFORMATION: (916) 442-6802, www.toweautomuseum.org

– Dixie Reid

Bobby Lee of "Mad TV" will perform five shows next weekend at Punch Line.

Don Rickles will perform at Harrah's South Shore Room Jan. 23-24.

"Of all the places we played, this was our first big deal," said Tom Smothers at Harrah's Tahoe recently, referring to the Smothers Brothers' debut in the South Shore Room in 1968. "We got fired elsewhere plenty of times, but Bill Harrah always hired us."

They had begun in lounges. At Harolds Club, Tom Smothers said, they did five shows a day, "but we had no material. Harold Smith said 'Never again, you stupid people.' "

They played Harveys, where they told everybody to stop gambling and sing "Happy Birthday" to a girl, and "heard about that for days." They paid their dues, and Bill Harrah brought them to one of the most desirable entertainment venues in the country.

The South Shore Room was a bold business experiment at its beginning. It was the late 1950s. Nevada casino gaming was becoming famous around the world, mostly due to such legendary Vegas clubs as the Sands and the Flamingo. But northern Nevada was being left behind and there were few places as sleepy, or as seasonal, as Stateline on the south Tahoe border of Nevada and California.

It was a risky place to build a major nightclub, but 1959 seemed the right time to do it. Harrah figured a major facility featuring major stars would draw the onslaught of visitors expected for the 1960 Winter Olympics in nearby Squaw Valley. He wanted a club that would feature only the best – and most famous – of performers, with state-of-the-art facilities and stage, serving dinners and cocktails for two shows a night "every night of the year."

The result was the South Shore Room, 850 seats, large for its day, opening in December 1959 with a show headlined by Red Skelton. Nobody was bigger than the star of a television series that ran for a total of 20 years without ever dropping out of the top 20.

The stars that followed in the next few months were no slouches, either – Patti Page, Fred Waring and the Pennsylvanians, Liberace, Victor Borge, Marlene Dietrich, Nat "King" Cole and Ray Bolger.

But the numbers were disappointing. It seems Olympic visitors were too tired after a day's events to travel to the South Shore for a show, regardless of who was scheduled.

But Harrah continued advertising and continued booking. The winter snows melted, May arrived, and his Tahoe operation became a destination. And even though a good deal of bloom is off the flower, the South Shore Room continues to operate, this year celebrating its 50 years with headline entertainment every weekend, a mix of the past and the present.

"Coming back here was like comfort food for entertainers," says Dick Smothers. "It was a treat not only to be performing in the main room, but also because Bill Harrah was legendarily generous to his entertainers. You could drive his classic cars, you could stay in a house on the lake, and you could have anything and as much as you wanted to eat. Mansions, cars, a Rolls, feasts."

"It was the place to play. And it made other entertainers jealous," says Tom Smothers. "I remember Jerry Van Dyke being in the lounge and saying, 'I'd be in the main room, too, if I worked with my brother.' "

That was typical Van Dyke humor, coming from a man who famously said, "I never wanted to be a really big star and so far it's working out pretty well."

Brother Dick Van Dyke never did play the South Shore Room, but just about everybody else did.

It was the location of the famous and surprising pairing of Frank Sinatra and John Denver in August 1975, Sinatra singing at the cocktail shows, Denver at the dinner shows. In September 1976, they performed together in both shows, Sinatra amazingly taking the opening spot.

There were many special events. The touring company of "Flower Drum Song" played the room in 1962 and Donald O'Connor starred in "Little Me" in 1968. Peggy Fleming, Scott Hamilton, Tai Babilonia, Randy Gardner and Dorothy Hamill skated there.

Major stars of television's "golden age" were often booked, many of them now with luster faded – Art Linkletter, Anna Maria Alberghetti, Ed Ames, Dennis Day, Ernie Kovacs, George Gobel, Giselle Mackenzie. The giants of that time whose luster never faded were there, too – Jack Benny, George Burns, Andy Williams, Dinah Shore, Carol Burnett and Perry Como.

Ella Fitzgerald sang in the room, with opening act Rowan and Martin. Judy Garland had one appearance in 1963; daughter Liza Minnelli appeared many times. Eleanor Powell danced. Guy Lombardo, Woody Herman, Herb Alpert, Count Basie, Xavier Cugat – all had their orchestras onstage. Kathryn Grayson dueted with Howard Keel, and Tony Martin performed with wife Cyd Charisse.

Jazz giants like Louis Jordan, Louis Armstrong and Louis Prima performed. The big sister acts, McGuire and Andrews, sang.

Polly Bergen, Nelson Eddy, Raquel Welch, Phil Harris, Robin Williams, Sarah Vaughn, Eddy Arnold, Sonny & Cher, Steve Lawrence and Eydie Gorme, Steve Martin, Spike Jones, Tony Bennett, Willie Nelson, Wayne Newton, Zsa Zsa Gabor – the list is nothing less than amazing.

Who played the room more than anybody else? Sammy Davis Jr., who racked up over 60 engagements, seconded closely by Bill Cosby, with more than 50.

"It was, quite simply, the place in the country to play," says Tom Smothers.

A note on prices: Ticketmaster will no longer provide ticket prices on all shows. Visit www.ticketmaster.com for ticket prices.

ON SALE TODAY

The Expendables and Less Than Jake, April 1; The Warfield, San Francisco.

United for a Change Barrack Obama Inauguration Viewing, Jan. 20, Oracle Arena, Oakland.

CONTINUING

Avenged Sevenfold and Buckcherry, Feb. 3, Oracle Arena, Oakland.

Sandra Bernhard, Jan. 16-17, Herbst Theatre, San Francisco.

Blondie, Feb. 25, The Fillmore, San Francisco.

Broadway Sacramento's 2008-09 season series, featuring "Stomp," through Sunday; Community Center Theater; $16.50-$69.

California Musical Theatre's "Forever Plaid," through Feb. 1, Cosmopolitan Cabaret, $32-$57.

Bill Cosby, Feb. 14, Paramount Theatre, Oakland.

Dame Edna, through Sunday, Post Street Theatre, San Francisco, $55-$100.

Disney's High School Musical – The Ice Tour, Feb. 11-16, Arco Arena.

Disturbed, Sevendust, Skindred, Jan. 26, Arco Arena.

Jeff Dunham, April 16, Arco Arena.

Eagles of Death Metal, Feb. 5, The Fillmore, San Francisco.

Eason's Moving Stage, March 22, Cow Palace, Daly City.

Bill Engvall, Jan. 23, Bob Hope Theatre, Stockton, $34.25, $49.25.

G Love and Special Sauce, March 13, The Warfield, San Francisco.

"Grease," March 24-April 19, Golden Gate Theatre, San Francisco.

Groundation: Annual Tribute to Bob Marley Tour, Feb. 7, The Mezzanine, San Francisco.

Harlem Globetrotters, Jan. 19, Arco Arena.

Indigenous, Feb. 13, Jackson Rancheria Casino and Hotel, Jackson.

Mickey Joseph, Feb. 5, Jackson Rancheria Casino and Hotel, Jackson.

Femi Kuti, Jan. 22, The Fillmore, San Francisco.

Labelle, Jan. 30, Paramount Theatre, Oakland.

Lykke Li, Feb. 15, The Fillmore, San Francisco.

Dropkick Murphys, Feb. 21, The Warfield, San Francisco.

Willie Nelson, Jan. 16-20, The Fillmore, San Francisco.

Larry Omaha, Thursday, Jackson Rancheria Casino and Hotel, Jackson.

PBR: Professional Bull Riders, Jan. 17-18, Arco Arena.

Pepper, Jan. 23, The Warfield, San Francisco.

Katy Perry, Jan. 28, The Fillmore, San Francisco.

"The Phantom of the Opera," through Sunday, Orpheum Theatre, San Francisco.

Pitbull, Jan. 22, The Warfield, San Francisco.

Pretenders, March 14, The Fillmore, San Francisco.

Primal Scream, March 17, The Fillmore, San Francisco.

Rebelution, Jan. 23, San Francisco.

Andre Rieu, June 17, Arco Arena.

Smokey Robinson, Jan. 24, Paramount Theatre, Oakland.

Sacramento Opera's 2008-09 series, featuring "The Marriage of Figaro," Feb. 27, March 1, 3; "La Bohème," May 8, 10, 12; Community Center Theater, $15-$115.

Ron Shock, March 5, Jackson Rancheria Casino and Hotel, Jackson.

Slipknot, March 11, Arco Arena.

Smuckers Stars on Ice, Jan. 29, Arco Arena.

Britney Spears, April 11, Arco Arena.

Valentine's Super Love Jam, featuring Atlantic Starr, Zapp, Heatwave, the Delfonics, the Originals, others, Feb. 7, Arco Arena.

Voices of Latin Rock, Jan. 24, The Warfield, San Francisco.

"Wicked," Jan. 27-June 27, Orpheum Theatre, San Francisco.

FOR INFORMATION

Call tickets.com at (800) 225-2277 or Ticketmaster at (916) 649-8497. (Arco Arena tickets available only through Ticketmaster.) Community Center Theater at (916) 808-5181, or call individual venues. All tickets subject to service charge.

The Rhythm Riders' Johnny Cash/Patsy Cline Tribute

ALL WEEKEND

Cultural exhibition

'Freedom's Sisters'

What: Be sure to catch this inspiring tribute to 20 extraordinary African American women before it's gone. The Sacramento Public Library's "Freedom's Sisters" is an interactive multimedia exhibit chronicling the lives of civil rights trailblazers such as Rosa Parks, Coretta Scott King and Ella J. Baker.

When: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. today, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, noon-5 p.m. Sunday

Where: Sacramento Central Library, 828 I St., Sacramento

Cost: Free admission

Information:

(916) 264-2920 or www.saclibrary.org

ALL WEEKEND

Musical theater

'Hello, Dolly!'

What: Escape to Broadway, if only for a few hours, while watching one of the most successful musical theater productions of all time. Davis Musical Theatre Company's "Hello, Dolly!" is sure to impart a dose of glamour and spirit to its audiences, who often leave humming. Through Jan. 25.

When: 8:15 p.m. today and Saturday, 2:15 p.m. Sunday

Where: Hoblit Performing Arts Center, 607 Peña Drive, Davis

Cost: $16-$18

Information: (530) 756-3682 or www.dmtc.org

ALL WEEKEND

Theater

'Macbeth'

What: Davis' Acme Theatre Company presents "The Scottish Play," referred to as such by those who believe the production's name is cursed by the spells of witches, which Shakespeare purportedly employed to compose his shortest tragedy. (Not recommended for children.)

When: 7:30 p.m. today and Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday

Where: Veterans Memorial Theatre, 203 E. 14th St., Davis

Cost: $12 general, $8 students and seniors

Information: (530) 758-3704

ALL WEEKEND

Exposition

California State Home & Garden Show

What: If you can't buy a new house, why not make the one you've got more livable? The three-day Home & Garden Show features hundreds of exhibitors and dozens of seminars covering every facet of home improvement imaginable, from green building to intelligent downsize planning.

When: Noon-7 p.m. today, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. Sunday

Where: Sacramento Convention Center, 1400 J St., Sacramento

Cost: $8 general, free for ages 16 and under, $4 seniors (today only)

Information: www.ascshows.com

SATURDAY

Teen culture

Calling All Teens!

What: Why rendezvous at the bowling alley when you could accrue valuable social time at a swanky art museum? This Crocker Art Museum event is planned for teens by teens, and suave sophisticates-in- training can look forward to dance contests, comedy and (duh) world-class art exhibits.

When: 1-4 p.m.

Where: Crocker Art Museum, 216 O St., Sacramento

Cost: Free admission (advance registration required)

Information: (916) 808-1182 or www.crockerart museum.org

SATURDAY

Trunk show

Indie Sacramento New Year's Celebration

What: Enjoy free admission to this monthly trunk show and craft bazaar, which features sundry handmade treasures – clothing, jewelry, artwork and more – from a broad range of distinct local crafters. Easy on the eyes, easier on the wallet.

When: Noon-4 p.m.

Where: 1616 I St., Sacramento

Cost: Free admission

Information: www. indiesacramento. com

SATURDAY

Musical tribute

The Rhythm Riders' Johnny Cash/Patsy Cline Tribute

What: This musical tribute at Marilyn's might be the closest you'll ever get (in terms of geography and sound quality) to "Folsom Prison Blues." Rumor has it that the "other" Johnny – Mr. Price, that is (at left, below) – bears a striking resemblance to the original Man in Black, and, channeling Patsy Cline, Dee Price's silvery voice will give everyone sweet dreams.

When: 8 p.m.

Where: Marilyn's on K, 908 K St., Sacramento

Cost: $12

Information: (916) 449-4361 or www.marilynsonk.com

What are you doing New Year's Eve?" It's the classic, end-of-the- holiday-season refrain that, over the years, has been crooned by everyone from Ella Fitzgerald and Mel Tormé to Diana Krall and Mary Margaret O'Hara.

So, while we may not be able to tell you whose arms will hold you tight on the last night of 2008, we can at least help you answer the jackpot question in advance.

Here are our top picks for the best way to say goodbye to the past 365 days.

Center for the Arts

314 W. Main St., Grass Valley

What: Roy Rogers & the Delta Rhythm Kings host the Center for the Arts' Blues Dance Party. Paul Emery and Eli Rush open.

Recommended for: Blues aficionados – Rogers is renowned as one of the best slide guitarists around.

The particulars: The 9 p.m. show costs $35.

Information: (530) 274-8384 or www.thecenterforthearts.org.

Empire

1417 R St., Sacramento

What: Glamorous White & Gold New Year's Eve Party complete with a "red carpet photo area" and "New York"-style decor. Hosted by Joe Breezy and 107.9 The End with DJ Element spinning tunes. Also: Cash prizes and gifts.

Recommended for: Peeps who want to party like P. Diddy but lack the appropriate cash flow, social circle or bling.

The particulars: The 18-and-over event starts at 7 p.m. and is $30 for those 21 and over and $40 for those ages 18-20. Get them via www.ticketweb.com. Information: www.empireventscenter.com.

Fire Escape Bar & Grill

7431 Madison Ave., Citrus Heights

What: San Francisco's quirky bluegrass band the Pine Box Boys joins Sac's classic country/rockabilly band KB & the Slingtones and the honkytonkers in Colonel Jimmy & the Blackfish. Special guest: Sac City Roller Girls.

Recommended for: Those who want to kick up their heels, kick up some dust and kick off the new year in a whoopin' good way.

The particulars: The 21-and-over show is $10 in advance, $12 at the door.

Information: (916) 967-5464 or myspace.com/thefireescapebar

Fox & Goose

1001 R St., Sacramento

What: This longtime downtown pub is one of the most relaxed places to grab an ale and catch a band – even when it's crowded. Come early to claim a booth to see local rock artists Not for Profit, the Inversions, the Polymers and Aimee Bord.

Recommended for: Those who don't feel the need to get too dolled up – or shell out too much cash. The atmosphere is casual and the cover charge is cheap.

The particulars: This 21-and-over show starts at 9 p.m. and is $5 at the door.

Information: (916) 443-8825 or www.foxandgoose.com.

Hilton Hotel

2200 Harvard St., Sacramento

What: The Professionals Guild 2008 New Year's Eve is a giant singles social mixer with DJs, food and plenty of room to dance.

Recommended for: Singles looking to mingle. (Couples also welcome.)

The particulars: The 21-and-over event starts at 8:30 p.m. and costs $65, or $50 if you're a Professionals Guild member. Hilton hotel room packages also are available.

Information: (916) 786-5858 or www.pguild.com/sacramento.

Hyatt Hotel

1209 L St., Sacramento

What: Salsa New Year's Gala Event with live music by Salsambo, Emilie Andagan and Salsa Onz. Formal attire required.

Recommended for: Those wanting to dance, dance, dance – there's a salsa dance contest with a $500 cash prize.

The particulars: Costs $35 in advance, $45 at the door.

Information: (916) 479-0198 www.salsacrazee.synthasite.com/

Marilyn's

908 K St., Sacramento

What: The Mother Hips ring in 2009 at this casually refined downtown bar.

Recommended for: Fans of the longtime rock 'n' jam band and anyone who wants to dance all night long.

The particulars: The 9 p.m. show is 21-and-over and costs $35.

Information: (916) 446-4361 or www.marilynsonk.com.

Old Ironsides

1901 10th St., Sacramento

What: It's a garage rock/punk/noisepop New Year with Th' Losin' Streaks, the Knockoffs and Pets.

Recommended for: Revelers looking for something with a hip edge, affordable cover charge and down-to-earth vibe.

The particulars: The 21-and-over show is $10 at the door.

Information: (916) 443-9751 or myspace.com/theoldironsides.

Sandbar

7942 Arcadia Drive, Citrus Heights

What: Hosted by 98 Rock, New Year's Eve '09 rings in the new year with DJ Rigatony and super-cheap drink specials.

Recommended for: Those looking for a chill, no-frills good time

The particulars: $20 before 8 p.m., $25 after.

Information: (916) 722-2400 or www.sacsandbar.com

Social

1000 K St., Sacramento

What: Sactown's newest nightclub – inside the Cosmopolitan restaurant – hosts a New Year's Eve bash with DJ dancing and a "New York"-style ball drop countdown.

Recommended for: Those who wish they could be in Times Square but can't afford the airfare. Also: Those who want to be seen hanging out at the latest It Spot.

The particulars: The 21-and-over-only event starts at 8 p.m. and costs $40.

Information: (916) 446-9800 or myspace.com/nightclubsocial.

The Torch Club

904 15th St., Sacramento.

What: Longtime Sacramento blues staples Stacie Eakes & the Superfreakes headline.

Recommended for: People who get the blues and know how to party to get rid of them.

The particular: The fun starts at 9 p.m. for this 21-and-over show. Admission is $20 at the door.

Information: (916) 443-2797 or www.torchclub.net.

Sacramento Bee file, 2002 Fireworks light up Tower Bridge as Sacramento welcomes in the new year on Dec. 31, 2002. This year, two fireworks shows, at 9 p.m. and midnight, will ring in 2009. And at midnight, a ball will drop in a specially built tower to illuminate a 22,000-watt LED sign at 930 K St.

If you were born after Dec. 31, 1987, you probably don't have anything too wild planned for this Wednesday night.

Why? Because New Year's Eve is just a crummy night to be a teenager.

It's a holiday usually made worthwhile by transportation, cash and a valid ID. And it is only the few and the lucky among teenagers who have access to the car and cash. If they have the ID, well, that's for the law to handle.

Then there are the parents. Parents inherently distrust their children on nights such as this.

Moms and dads fearing the worst will assume that every "friend's house" or "party" is really just a makeshift den of iniquity.

Really, teenagers these days.

So here's the game plan for the kids who might want to get out while their parents chill out.

In Sacramento's downtown-midtown area, there's plenty going on this New Year's Eve. These suggestions should help teens mix and match a plan for the last hours of 2008. Even available phone numbers will be included; the 'rents can call in if they want.

Where to be

As a note to teen readers, if you really want to get Mom and Dad's approval for your plans, the key is actually having a plan.

Know where you are going, when and with whom.

Two events will get you out on the midtown grid where nearly everything is in walking distance.

That means one dropoff and one pickup for family members who don't like acting as a shuttle service.

Old Sacramento's waterfront

6 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.

The waterfront is really cute but kitschy. If the romanticized Old West feel and salt-water taffy shops don't tell you that, the racks full of "Governator" T-shirts will. But really, don't fear the lame for this event.

First off, it's free, so teens won't have to blow all of Grandma's Christmas check in one spot. And given that the event is for all ages, it should probably be a pretty safe affair.

Two fireworks shows are scheduled, 9 p.m. and midnight. In between the fireworks, there are food, live music and street entertainment.

That just sounds pretty, doesn't it?

New Year's Eve ball drop, 930 K St.

11 p.m. start

You read it right, there's going to be a ball drop in downtown Sacramento.

It's been a long time since this has been attempted, if ever, and the group of downtown business leaders who hatched this idea expect (or at least hope for) big crowds.

There will be musical performances at the corner of 10th and K streets, but as the clock nears midnight, that's when things should get interesting.

A light show and a 22,000-watt LED sign just screams, "What's up? It's 2K9!"

Go ahead, kiss and hug in the new year under the lights. And by kiss, we're just talking pecks on the cheeks.

Places to hang out

The bars and clubs will be off-limits, except for some places that can allow 18-year-olds.

But even if they are old enough to get in, they'll likely be slapped with a fat cover charge, and they'll definitely be left out of any champagne toasts.

Luckily, the grid also has plenty of options for late-night dining this New Year's Eve.

So here are places to go where it's warm and where there are seats – and really, that's all anybody needs to have a good time with friends.

Rick's Dessert Diner, 2322 K St., Sacramento

Open until: 11 p.m.

If teens don't answer their cell phones, call: (916) 444-0969

Azul Mexican Food and Tequila Bar, 1050 20th St., Sacramento

Open until: 2 a.m.

If teens don't answer their cell phones, call: (916) 447-4040

Luigi's Slice, 1050 20th St., Sacramento

Open until: 2:30 a.m.

If teens don't answer their cell phones, call: (916) 447-1255

Ink Eats and Drinks, 2730 N St., Sacramento

Open until: 3 a.m.

If teens don't answer their cell phones, call: (916) 456-2800

Hot Rods Burgers, 2007 K St., Sacramento

Open until: 4 a.m.

If teens don't answer their cell phones, call: (916) 443-7637

Skatetown Ice Arena in Roseville will host a New Year's Eve party from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.

I tend to distrust people who regale me with extravagant tales of their New Year's Eve experiences. Perhaps this utterly unjustified vendetta is the result of my own failed attempts at NYE planning – a vicious cycle where, two days before the fact, I frenziedly attempt to divine the locations of the most illustrious parties with the most compelling guests.

But in past years, I've discovered that minuscule, silvery little slice of December to be, for the most part, overhyped and underwhelming.

And although it never fails that I hear about everyone else's seamless evenings the morning after, I know there are others who, like me, cringe with a too-personal pang of sympathy at the mere mention of Norma Desmond in "Sunset Blvd."

If you plan on staying in Sacramento this New Year's Eve and have even the slightest desire to celebrate in style, there is still hope. With a lineup of events that offers something stellar for every lifestyle and price range, New Year's Eve in the capital is no longer merely a backup plan when San Francisco doesn't pan out. In fact, it might be one of the year's best nights to stay local.

Below are some fantastic options for Sacramento-area NYE revelry, coded for your budgetary convenience with respectively priced champagnes. And remember: Sometimes the cheap stuff tastes the best. Cheers!

Martinelli's merrymaking: Free events

New Year's Eve Sky Spectacular

This annual Old Sacramento event is a tradition for many, and you can expect to find nothing less than an extremely large crowd composed of people ranging in age from 4 to 94. Food and drink vendors will be on hand, and the event features a full schedule of live music and street performances, ranging from the Radio Disney Rockin' Road Crew to Obsidian Butterfly fire dancers. Of course, it wouldn't be an Old Sac New Year's Eve without a fireworks display, but take heed, revelers: This party shuts down at 12:30 a.m.

New Year's Eve in the City

Witness Sacramento making history as it joins the elite ranks of just four U.S. cities that host a live ball drop. One minute before midnight, a lighted LED ball will descend, for the very first time, from a former bank building at 930 K St. downtown. And who's filling in for Dick Clark? Mayor Kevin Johnson will lead this year's ceremonies, which will shut down 10th Street between J and L streets. Pre-drop festivities include performances by the cast of Broadway Sacramento's "Stomp" and the Cosmopolitan Cabaret's "Forever Plaid."

Cook's celebrations: Events on the cheap

Indie Rock New Year's Eve

Sacramento resident DJs Shaun Slaughter, Roger Carpio and Jon Droll will be spinning the year's best indie and rock music at this dance-tastic NYE bash. For just 10 bucks, you can sweat out 2008's demons, see a live performance by the band 20,000 and usher in 2009 with a complimentary champagne toast. This fun boat is guaranteed to fill up fast, so get there early to avoid the dreaded line.

Where: Blue Lamp, 1400 Alhambra Blvd., Sacramento

Cost: $10

Time: 9 p.m.-2 a.m.

www.bluelamp.com

New Year's Eve Party at Skatetown Ice Arena

For those looking for an alternative to bars and nightclubs this year, consider putting your New Year's on ice. Skatetown Ice Arena is throwing a no-holds-barred soiree featuring ice skating, a live DJ, karaoke, a laser light show and a sparkling cider toast. (Yeah, you can purchase champagne and beer, but only if you're not skating.) Admission includes skate rental and party favors. For $20, this could be one of the coolest all-ages parties in town.

Where: Skatetown Ice Arena, 1009 Orlando Ave., Roseville

Cost: $20 advance, $25 at door

Time: 9 p.m.-1 a.m.

www.skatetown.biz

Dom Perignon parties: Events worth the cash

Greek New Year's Eve 2009

Honestly, when have you been to a Greek party that wasn't fun? This all-night event at the wonderful Lucca restaurant in midtown is destined to get rowdy, with a fine selection of wines and one of the most comfortable heated patios in Sacramento. Ring in the new year to the cheerful sounds of the bouzouki, thanks to a live performance by Fotia, a Greek band from the Bay Area. Chris Marcovici and DJ Somebody spin Greek, hip-hop and house tracks all night long.

Where: Lucca, 1615 J St., Sacramento

Cost: $40 presale

Time: 10 p.m.-2 a.m.

(916) 669-5300

NYEB 2008

The folks over at Sacramento's newest country nightclub, Stoney Inn, aren't wasting their time with any rookie NYE celebrations. Their action-packed schedule of fun begins at 5 p.m. and lasts until 2 a.m., and attendees get a prime rib dinner, dance lessons, karaoke, two DJs and multiple bars. Word to the wise: Get there early for those dance lessons because Stoney Inn bills itself as "the largest Two Steppin' nightclub in the region." For the cowboys and girls who aren't so keen on country music, dance to '70s and '80s hits on a second dance floor.

Where: Stoney Inn, 1320 Del Paso Blvd., Sacramento

Time: 5 p.m.-2 a.m.

Cost: $25-$75

www.stoneyinn.com

The Cosmopolitan Cabaret's "Forever Plaid" will join the festivities at Sacramento's New Year's Eve ball drop.

Fall Out Boy is on tour to promote the band's latest CD, "Folie à Deux," and will perform tonight in San Francisco.

Today

Music

Fall Out Boy

WHAT: Here's a chance to see the popular emo-pop band up close and personal in a much smaller setting than its usual arena shows.

WHEN: 7 p.m.

WHERE: Great American Music Hall, 859 O'Farrell St., San Francisco

COST: $20 at the door only. No advance tickets.

INFORMATION: (415) 885-0750 or www.gamh.com

– Rachel Leibrock

Today

Classical music

River City Renaissance Band and Mabs Merrie Minstrels

WHAT: Christmas music from the Renaissance period that calls for such era instruments as the recorder, sackbut, krumhorn and rebec.

WHEN: 7 p.m.

WHERE: Lutheran Church of Our Redeemer, 4641 Marconi Ave., Sacramento

COST: Donation

INFORMATION: (916) 451-7614

– Edward Ortiz

Today

Exhibit

'Dream of Speed'

WHAT: A rare chance to see, under one roof, three original, classic Cobras and the Genie MK 10/ Huffaker Can-Am racer once owned by "Bonanza" TV series star Dan Blocker.

WHEN: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. (last admission at 5 p.m.)

WHERE: Towe Auto Museum, 2200 Front St., Sacramento

COST: $7 general, $6 ages 65-plus, $3 students

INFORMATION: (916) 442-6802, www.toweautomuseum.org

– Dixie Reid

Saturday

Free clinic

Rose pruning

WHAT: The Historic Rose Garden in Sacramento's first public cemetery is the site of an hourlong rose-pruning lesson.

WHEN: 10 a.m.

WHERE: Sacramento Historic City Cemetery, Broadway and 10th Street (park in lot across Broadway from cemetery's main gate)

COST: Free (donations accepted)

INFORMATION: (916) 443-2146

– Dixie Reid

Saturday

Music

Jerry Perry's Birthday Bash

WHAT: Local show promoter Jerry Perry hosts his annual birthday shindig. Agent Ribbons and Ricky Berger help blow out the candles on the cake.

WHEN: 9 p.m.

WHERE: Old Ironsides, 1901 10th St., Sacramento

Cost: $5

INFORMATION: (916) 443-9751 or www.theoldironsides.com

– Rachel Leibrock

A note on prices: Ticketmaster will no longer provide ticket prices on all shows. Visit www.ticketmaster.com for ticket prices.

ON SALE TODAY

Eagles of Death Metal, Feb. 5, The Fillmore, San Francisco.

G Love and Special Sauce, March 13, The Warfield, San Francisco.

Pretenders, March 14, The Fillmore, San Francisco.

Primal Scream, March 17, The Fillmore, San Francisco.

Taste of Chaos (2009 Tour), featuring Thursday, Bring Me the Horizon, Four Year Strong, Pierce the Veil, Cancer Bats, Feb. 15, San Jose Civic Auditorium, San Jose.

CONTINUING

Broadway Sacramento's 2008-09 season series, featuring "Stomp," through Jan. 4; Community Center Theater; $16.50-$69.

Disney's High School Musical – The Ice Tour, Feb. 11-16, Arco Arena.

Disturbed, Sevendust, Skindred, Jan. 26, Arco Arena.

Harlem Globetrotters, Jan. 19, Arco Arena.

Mickey Joseph, Feb. 5, Jackson Rancheria Casino and Hotel, Jackson.

Larry Omaha, Jan. 8, Jackson Rancheria Casino and Hotel, Jackson.

PBR: Professional Bull Riders, Jan. 17-18, Arco Arena.

Andre Rieu, April 29, Arco Arena.

Sacramento Opera's 2008-09 series, featuring "The Marriage of Figaro," Feb. 27, March 1, 3; "La Bohème," May 8, 10, 12; Community Center Theater, $15-$115.

Ron Shock, March 5, Jackson Rancheria Casino and Hotel, Jackson.

Slipknot, March 11, Arco Arena.

Smuckers Stars on Ice, Jan. 29, Arco Arena.

Britney Spears, April 11, Arco Arena.

Valentine's Super Love Jam, featuring Atlantic Starr, Zapp, Heatwave, the Delfonics, the Originals, others, Feb. 7, Arco Arena.

V101.1 ninth New Year's Eve Jam, featuring Con Funk Shun, Roe Royce and DJ Gino, Dec. 31, Radisson Hotel.

FOR INFORMATION

Call tickets.com at (800) 225-2277 or Ticketmaster at (916) 649-8497. (Arco Arena tickets available only through Ticketmaster.) Community Center Theater at (916) 808-5181, or call individual venues. All tickets subject to service charge.

The San Francisco-based chorus Chanticleer will perform Sunday at the Mondavi Center.

ALL WEEKEND

Comedy

Ngaio Bealum with Jeff Short and Laura Rosenberg

What: With an arsenal of jokes as extensive as his collection of zany suits, comedian Ngaio Bealum has wowed audiences from coast to coast, scoring a runner-up nod in the San Francisco International Comedy Competition. Bealum has appeared on MTV, Comedy Central and, most recently, "The Sarah Silverman Show."

When: 10:30 p.m. today and Saturday, 8:30 p.m. Sunday

Where: Punch Line Comedy Club, 2100 Arden Way, Sacramento

Cost: $13-$19

Information:

(916) 925-5500 or www.livenation.com

TODAY

Holiday show

Cabaret Hedwig's Rawkin' Christmas

What: "Not your mamma's" average holiday show, Sacramento's Lambda Players present an evening of alternative Christmas entertainment, featuring Hedwig and Lucille Ball, among numerous, fabulous others. Guaranteed to put a smile on everyone's face, even the Christmas-phobic.

When: 8 p.m.

Where: Studio Theatre, 1028 R St., Sacramento

Cost: $13-$16.50

Information:

(916) 444-8229

or www.lambdaplayers.com

SATURDAY

Film screening

'A Christmas Story'

What: The Crest Theatre opens its doors for a special screening of the retro Christmas classic – a holiday parable that taught an entire generation of children not to stick their tongues against frozen metal. Santa Claus will appear at 1 p.m. for candy and photos.

When: 1:30 p.m.

Where: Crest Theatre, 1013 K St., Sacramento

Cost: $10

Information:

(800) 225-2277 or www.thecrest.com

SATURDAY

Holiday concert

'A Christmas To Remember'

What: For some Sacramentans, the Christmas season officially begins with the Sacramento Master Singers' annual holiday concert. The area's premier chamber choir has been captivating its audiences with classic and contemporary Christmas favorites since 1982.

When: 8 p.m.

Where: St. Francis of Assisi Church, 1112 26th St., Sacramento

Cost: $18

Information:

(916) 788-7464 or www.mastersingers.org

SATURDAY

Live music

Kate Gaffney and West of Next

What: With a part Americana, part jam-band sound and feel, Kate Gaffney's soulful music helps the whiskey go down smoother. Although she calls both coasts home, Gaffney discovered her musical roots in Sacramento, and she returns to the Blue Lamp on Saturday night to play alongside the band West of Next.

When: 9 p.m.

Where: Blue Lamp, 1400 Alhambra Blvd., Sacramento

Cost: $8

Information: www.bluelamp.com

SUNDAY

Classical music

Duo Concertante

What: Make Sunday a family affair and come enjoy this beautiful violin and piano duo, performed by pianist Wolfgang Fetsch and his daughter, violinist Anita Fetsch Felix. Featuring pieces by Rebecca Clarke, Andre Previn and more.

When: 3 p.m.

Where: Crocker Art Museum, 216 O St., Sacramento

Cost: $12

Information:

(916) 808-7000 or www.crockerartmuseum.org

SUNDAY

Classical music

A Chanticleer Christmas

What: Declared "the world's reigning male chorus" by the New Yorker magazine, San Francisco-based Chanticleer takes on the Christmas canon with medieval and Renaissance sacred works, traditional carols and spirituals. The Mondavi Center's acoustics alone should make for a heavenly experience.

When: 5 p.m.

Where: Mondavi Center, UC Davis

Cost: $25-$48

Information: (866) 754-2787 or www.chanticleer.org

The giraffes will be in their naturally colorful costumes during the Sacramento Zoo Pajama Party.

There are two popular excuses people draw upon to explain why they don't leave their homes the week before Christmas, and neither is sufficiently convincing.

The first: "Why would I leave when I could gaze at the tree and listen to David Hasselhoff's cover of 'Feliz Navidad' on repeat?" (Read: I spent my entire weekly income purchasing LED lights, and I'm now surviving on candy canes and the occasional corporate holiday gift goodie.)

Then there's my personal favorite: "I'm cold."

Fair enough. But what if I told you that, as long as you put in the effort to bundle up, Sacramento would return your Herculean exertions by showing you her sparkling Christmas personality for free (or, in some cases, almost free)?

Yes, the critic in me realizes that "free fun" sounds like an oxymoron, but during the most wonderful time of the year, all the ordinary rules (grammatical and otherwise) are off the table. If you're up for the challenge, check out these ideas. (For details on the offerings, see the bottom of his page and Page 9.)

Dovewood Court's Christmas light display

Residents of Dovewood Court in Orangevale have been decking their halls since 1982, when two neighbors began competing for the Christmas light heavyweight belt. The longstanding community tradition of friendly competition has illuminated the court as one of Sacramento's finest holiday spectacles, and since 1991, the neighborhood has collected canned and boxed food items to support Food for Families. Grab some hot cocoa and take an evening drive through the megawatt scene, but don't forget to turn off your headlights. (click here for other area light displays)

Baby Grand Xmas Party

There are dozens of world-class holiday music performances lined up this season, but even if you're too low on cash for the Mondavi Center, you're still in luck. Budget-friendly holiday music is everywhere you turn this week, and the annual Christmas Show at Old Ironsides is destined to rock. Hear renditions of your favorite Christmas songs performed by some of the area's best local bands, including the charming indie-pop outfit Baby Grand, the Poplollys and Sacramento's favorite crooning ukulelist, Ricky Berger.

Reindeer Day

Just how do reindeer fly if they don't have wings? Discover the answer to this and other pressing questions during Reindeer Day at the Discovery Museum Science and Space Center. This one-day workshop teaches about reindeer and their relatives, and it should be interesting for the whole family. After all, did you already know that there are nine subspecies of our horned friends? Kids ages 4-12 can make a free reindeer craft with admission.

Sacramento Zoo Pajama Party

No, unfortunately the animals will not be dressed up in nightgowns and stocking caps, although that's an idea for another year. Regardless, the Sacramento Zoo is opening its doors on Christmas Eve afternoon for an absolutely free day, and you don't even have to change out of your PJs. How's that for motivation? Come join the zoo crew from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., and bring along a canned food item to donate to the Sacramento Food Bank.

Christmas Eve Free Day

Feel like you're living in a budgetary fairyland for one entire day at Fairytale Town, which will offer free admission for imaginers young and old on Christmas Eve Day. (Just remember, you can't come inside without a child.) Explore more than 25 different play sets celebrating classic nursery rhymes and fairy tales, visit with the amusement park's resident animals, and make a visit to Mr. Humpty Dumpty while you're in the neighborhood.

The giraffes will be in their naturally colorful costumes during the Sacramento Zoo Pajama Party, top; Fairytale Town, above, is free on Christmas Eve.
Dovewood Court in Orangevale boasts one of the region's biggest neighborhood holiday light displays.
Singer-songwriter Ricky Berger will perform Saturday at Old Ironsides.

A note on prices: Ticketmaster will no longer provide ticket prices on all shows. Visit www.ticketmaster.com for ticket prices.

ON SALE TODAY

Avenged Sevenfold and Buckcherry, Feb. 3, Oracle Arena, Oakland.

Pitbull, Jan. 22, The Warfield, San Francisco.

ON SALE SATURDAY

Disturbed, Sevendust, Skindred, Jan. 26, Arco Arena.

ON SALE SUNDAY

Duncan Sheik, Feb. 21, Palace of Fine Arts, San Francisco.

Eagles of Death Metal, Feb. 5, The Fillmore, San Francisco.

G Love and Special Sauce, March 13, The Warfield, San Francisco.

Kid Sister, April 1, Rickshaw Stop, San Francisco.

Pretenders, March 14, The Fillmore, San Francisco.

Primal Scream, March 17, The Fillmore, San Francisco.

Take Action Tour, March 19, The Fillmore San Francisco.

Taste of Chaos (2009 Tour), featuring Thursday, Bring Me the Horizon, Four Year Strong, Pierce the Veil, Cancer Bats, Feb. 15, San Jose Civic Auditorium, San Jose.

CONTINUING

Adele, Jan. 29, The Fillmore, San Francisco.

Sandra Bernhard, Jan. 16-17, Herbst Theatre, San Francisco.

Andrew Bird, Feb. 19-20, The Fillmore, San Francisco.

Black Comedy Explosion 2008, featuring Mike Epps, Dec. 31, Paramount Theatre, Oakland.

The Black Crowes, through Saturday, The Fillmore, San Francisco, $49.50.

Blondie, Feb. 25, The Fillmore, San Francisco.

Brian Setzer Orchestra, Sunday, The Warfield, San Francisco.

Broadway Sacramento's 2008-09 season series, featuring "Stomp," next Friday-Jan. 4; Community Center Theater; $16.50-$69.

California Musical Theatre's "Forever Plaid," through Feb. 1, Cosmopolitan Cabaret, $32-$57.

Celtic Woman – Isle of Hope, May 5, Paramount Theatre, Oakland.

"Chicago The Musical," Jan. 14-18, San Jose Center for the Performing Arts, San Jose.

George Clinton and Parliament Funkadelic, Dec. 31, The Warfield, San Francisco.

Imogen Cooper, March 22, Le Petit Trianon Theatre, San Jose.

Cut Copy, March 12, The Fillmore, San Francisco.

Bill Cosby, Feb. 14, Paramount Theatre, Oakland.

Dame Edna, through Jan. 4, Post Street Theatre, San Francisco, $55-$100.

Brett Dennen, March 20-21, The Fillmore, San Francisco.

Disney's High School Musical – The Ice Tour, Feb. 11-16, Arco Arena.

Jeff Dunham, April 16, Arco Arena.

Bill Engvall, Jan. 23, Bob Hope Theatre, Stockton, $34.25, $49.25.

Gipsy Kings, Dec. 29, The Warfield, San Francisco.

Harlem Globetrotters, Jan. 19, Arco Arena.

"Grease," March 24-April 19, Golden Gate Theatre, San Francisco.

Jimmy Eat World, March 4, The Fillmore, San Francisco.

Sharon Jones and the Dapkings, Jan. 28, The Warfield, San Francisco.

Mickey Joseph, Feb. 5, Jackson Rancheria Casino and Hotel, Jackson.

Kinky, Feb. 21, The Grand Ballroom at the Regency Center, San Francisco.

Femi Kuti, Jan. 22, The Fillmore, San Francisco.

Labelle, Jan. 30, Paramount Theatre, Oakland.

John Legend, Jan. 12, Paramount Theatre, Oakland.

Phil Lesh and Friends, Bob Weir and Ratdog, Dec. 30-31, Bill Graham Civic Auditorium, San Francisco.

Lil Wayne, Tuesday, Oracle Arena, Oakland.

Lykke Li, Feb. 15, The Fillmore, San Francisco.

Carlos Mencia, Dec. 27, San Jose Civic Auditorium, San Jose.

Metallica, Saturday, Oracle Arena, Oakland.

Monster Jam Pit Pass 2009, Jan. 25, 2009, Arco Arena, $5.

Dropkick Murphys, Feb. 21, The Warfield, San Francisco.

Willie Nelson, Jan. 16-20, The Fillmore, San Francisco.

Oakland East Bay Symphony, through May 15, Paramount Theatre, Oakland.

Larry Omaha, Jan. 8, Jackson Rancheria Casino and Hotel, Jackson.

Joel Osteen, March 1, Arco Arena.

PBR: Professional Bull Riders, Jan. 17-18, Arco Arena.

Pepper, Jan. 23, The Warfield, San Francisco.

Katy Perry, Jan. 28, The Fillmore, San Francisco.

Tyler Perry's "The Marriage Counselor," Jan. 16-18, Paramount Theatre, Oakland.

"The Phantom of the Opera," through Jan. 4, Orpheum Theatre, San Francisco.

Rebelution, Jan. 23, San Francisco.

Andre Rieu, April 29, Arco Arena.

Smokey Robinson, Jan. 24, Paramount Theatre, Oakland.

Sacramento Opera's 2008-09 series, featuring "The Marriage of Figaro," Feb. 27, March 1, 3; "La Bohème," May 8, 10, 12; Community Center Theater, $15-$115.

Ron Shock, March 5, Jackson Rancheria Casino and Hotel, Jackson.

Slipknot, March 11, Arco Arena.

Smuckers Stars on Ice, Jan. 29, Arco Arena.

Britney Spears, April 11, Arco Arena.

Susan Tedeschi, James Hunter, Feb. 17, The Fillmore, San Francisco.

Chris Tomlin, March 5, San Jose State Event Center Arena, San Jose.

Valentine's Super Love Jam, featuring Atlantic Starr, Zapp, Heatwave, the Delfonics, the Originals, others, Feb. 7, Arco Arena.

Voices of Latin Rock, Jan. 24, The Warfield, San Francisco.

V101.1 ninth New Year's Eve Jam, featuring Con Funk Shun, Roe Royce and DJ Gino, Dec. 31, Radisson Hotel.

The Walkmen, Jan. 21, The Fillmore, San Francisco.

"Wicked," Jan. 27-June 27, Orpheum Theatre, San Francisco.

FOR INFORMATION

Call tickets.com at (800) 225-2277 or Ticketmaster at (916) 649-8497. (Arco Arena tickets available only through Ticketmaster.) Community Center Theater at (916) 808-5181, or call individual venues. All tickets subject to service charge.

Holly Cole performs Tuesday and Wednesday at Yoshi's in San Francisco.

Today and Wednesday-Friday

Music

'A Winter Spectacular'

What: The 60-voice Sierra Community Chorus presents a holiday concert, directed by Lorin Miller.

When: 2 p.m. today, 7:30 p.m. Wednesday-Friday

Where: Sierra College's Dietrich Theatre, 5000 Rocklin Road, Rocklin

Cost: $20 general, $16 students/seniors (premium seating $4 more)

Information: (800) 838-3006, www.sierrachorus.org

– Dixie Reid

Today

Music

Drastic Action, Cobra Skulls, Bastards of Young, No Goodniks

What: It's a noisy punk-rock show for your otherwise lazy Sunday

When: 6 p.m.

Where: The Fire Escape Bar & Grille, 7431 Madison Ave, Citrus Heights

Cost: $5 to $7

Information: (916) 967-5464 or www.myspace.com/thefireescapebar

– Rachel Leibrock

Tuesday-Saturday (ends March 7)

Photography

'Dorothea Lange'

What: Traveling retrospective of the work of Lange, the Depression-era documentary photographer.

When: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Where: University Library Gallery, Sacramento State, 6000 J St.

Cost: Free

Information: (916) 278-4189

– Dixie Reid

Tuesday-Wednesday

Music

Holly Cole

What: The Canadian chanteuse brings a special holiday show called "A Night Before Christmas" to Yoshi's in San Francisco. Cole's performance at the club last spring was one of the year's highlights, and this time around she'll include tunes from her great holiday record "Baby It's Cold Outside."

When: 8 and 10 p.m. both days

Where: Yoshi's Jazz Club, 1330 Fillmore St. San Francisco

Cost: $18

Information:(415) 655-5600 or www.yoshis.com

– Marcus Crowder

Saturday

Music

Second annual Best of the Stag Showcase

What: The Stag isn't just one of Woodland's most popular watering holes, it's a fun place to catch a show. This "best of" show features bands that've played the tiny bar over the last 12 months. Check out the Lemmies, Malcolm Bliss, Million Dollar Itch, Der Spazm and Boyfriendz.

When: 9:30 p.m.

Where: The Stag, 506 Main St., Woodland

Cost: $5

Inforamation: (530) 668-8373 or www.myspace.com/thestag

– Rachel Leibrock

Friday

Movies on a Big Screen

Santa Claus (a.k.a. Santa Vs. Satan)

What: A surreal and very low-budget Christmas travesty that – perhaps no surprise – did not receive a general release in the United States. The U.S. distributor booked the film as a special children's matinee attraction in which the film would be shown only once or twice and from which, it is reported, kids left in tears.

When: 7 and 9:30 p.m.

Where: The former ILWU Union Hall, 600 Fourth St., West Sacramento (corner of Fourth and F streets, with parking off of F between Fourth and Fifth streets)

Tickets: $5

Information: (916) 484-0747, www.shiny-object.com

– Jim Carnes

Saturday

Destination: Berkeley

Pomegranates & Figs: A Feast of Jewish Music

What: The exuberance of klezmer music combines with Yiddish folk songs and traditional Sephardic music in a holiday concert featuring the Teslim string duo, Kitka Women's Vocal Ensemble, violinist Kaila Flexer and multi-instrumentalist Gari Hegedus, among others

When: 8 p.m.

Where: Zellerbach Hall on the UC Berkeley campus, Bancroft Way at Telegraph Avenue, Berkeley

Tickets: $20-$32

Information: (510) 642-9988, www.calperformances.org

– Jim Carnes

"Migrant Mother" and a photograph of Texas refugees are among the works by Dorothea Lange on display at the CSUS University Library Gallery. Library of Congress

A note on prices: Ticketmaster will no longer provide ticket costs on all shows. Visit www.ticketmaster.com for ticket prices.

ON SALE TODAY

Voices of Latin Rock, Jan. 24, The Warfield, San Francisco.

ON SALE MONDAY

Celtic Woman – Isle of Hope, Paramount Theatre, Oakland.

ON SALE WEDNESDAY

"Grease," March 24-April 19, Golden Gate Theatre, San Francisco.

CONTINUING

Broadway Sacramento's 2008-09 season series, featuring "Stomp," Dec. 26-Jan. 4; Community Center Theater; $16.50-$69.

Disney's High School Musical – The Ice Tour, Feb. 11-16, Arco Arena.

Harlem Globetrotters, Jan. 19, Arco Arena.

Larry Omaha, Jan. 8, Jackson Rancheria Casino and Hotel, Jackson.

PBR: Professional Bull Riders, Jan. 17-18, Arco Arena.

Smuckers Stars on Ice, Jan. 29, Arco Arena.

Britney Spears, April 11, Arco Arena.

Valentine's Super Love Jam, featuring Atlantic Starr, Zapp, Heatwave, the Delfonics, the Originals, others, Feb. 7, Arco Arena.

V101.1 ninth New Year's Eve Jam, featuring Con Funk Shun, Roe Royce and DJ Gino, Dec. 31, Radisson Hotel.

FOR INFORMATION

Call tickets.com at (800) 225-2277 or Ticketmaster at (916) 649-8497. (Arco Arena tickets available only through Ticketmaster.) Community Center Theater at (916) 808-5181, or call individual venues. All tickets subject to service charge.

Holly Cole performs Tuesday and Wednesday at Yoshi's in San Francisco.

Today and Wednesday-Friday

Music

'A Winter Spectacular'

What: The 60-voice Sierra Community Chorus presents a holiday concert, directed by Lorin Miller.

When: 2 p.m. today, 7:30 p.m. Wednesday-Friday

Where: Sierra College's Dietrich Theatre, 5000 Rocklin Road, Rocklin

Cost: $20 general, $16 students/seniors (premium seating $4 more)

Information: (800) 838-3006, www.sierrachorus.org

– Dixie Reid

Today

Music

Drastic Action, Cobra Skulls, Bastards of Young, No Goodniks

What: It's a noisy punk-rock show for your otherwise lazy Sunday

When: 6 p.m.

Where: The Fire Escape Bar & Grille, 7431 Madison Ave, Citrus Heights

Cost: $5 to $7

Information: (916) 967-5464 or www.myspace.com/thefireescapebar

– Rachel Leibrock

Tuesday-Saturday (ends March 7)

Photography

'Dorothea Lange'

What: Traveling retrospective of the work of Lange, the Depression-era documentary photographer.

When: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Where: University Library Gallery, Sacramento State, 6000 J St.

Cost: Free

Information: (916) 278-4189

– Dixie Reid

Tuesday-Wednesday

Music

Holly Cole

What: The Canadian chanteuse brings a special holiday show called "A Night Before Christmas" to Yoshi's in San Francisco. Cole's performance at the club last spring was one of the year's highlights, and this time around she'll include tunes from her great holiday record "Baby It's Cold Outside."

When: 8 and 10 p.m. both days

Where: Yoshi's Jazz Club, 1330 Fillmore St. San Francisco

Cost: $18

Information:(415) 655-5600 or www.yoshis.com

– Marcus Crowder

Saturday

Music

Second annual Best of the Stag Showcase

What: The Stag isn't just one of Woodland's most popular watering holes, it's a fun place to catch a show. This "best of" show features bands that've played the tiny bar over the last 12 months. Check out the Lemmies, Malcolm Bliss, Million Dollar Itch, Der Spazm and Boyfriendz.

When: 9:30 p.m.

Where: The Stag, 506 Main St., Woodland

Cost: $5

Inforamation: (530) 668-8373 or www.myspace.com/thestag

– Rachel Leibrock

Friday

Movies on a Big Screen

Santa Claus (a.k.a. Santa Vs. Satan)

What: A surreal and very low-budget Christmas travesty that – perhaps no surprise – did not receive a general release in the United States. The U.S. distributor booked the film as a special children's matinee attraction in which the film would be shown only once or twice and from which, it is reported, kids left in tears.

When: 7 and 9:30 p.m.

Where: The former ILWU Union Hall, 600 Fourth St., West Sacramento (corner of Fourth and F streets, with parking off of F between Fourth and Fifth streets)

Tickets: $5

Information: (916) 484-0747, www.shiny-object.com

– Jim Carnes

Saturday

Destination: Berkeley

Pomegranates & Figs: A Feast of Jewish Music

What: The exuberance of klezmer music combines with Yiddish folk songs and traditional Sephardic music in a holiday concert featuring the Teslim string duo, Kitka Women's Vocal Ensemble, violinist Kaila Flexer and multi-instrumentalist Gari Hegedus, among others

When: 8 p.m.

Where: Zellerbach Hall on the UC Berkeley campus, Bancroft Way at Telegraph Avenue, Berkeley

Tickets: $20-$32

Information: (510) 642-9988, www.calperformances.org

– Jim Carnes

"Migrant Mother" and a photograph of Texas refugees are among the works by Dorothea Lange on display at the CSUS University Library Gallery. Library of Congress

A note on prices: Ticketmaster will no longer provide ticket costs on all shows. Visit www.ticketmaster.com for ticket prices.

ON SALE TODAY

Voices of Latin Rock, Jan. 24, The Warfield, San Francisco.

ON SALE MONDAY

Celtic Woman – Isle of Hope, Paramount Theatre, Oakland.

ON SALE WEDNESDAY

"Grease," March 24-April 19, Golden Gate Theatre, San Francisco.

CONTINUING

Broadway Sacramento's 2008-09 season series, featuring "Stomp," Dec. 26-Jan. 4; Community Center Theater; $16.50-$69.

Disney's High School Musical – The Ice Tour, Feb. 11-16, Arco Arena.

Harlem Globetrotters, Jan. 19, Arco Arena.

Larry Omaha, Jan. 8, Jackson Rancheria Casino and Hotel, Jackson.

PBR: Professional Bull Riders, Jan. 17-18, Arco Arena.

Smuckers Stars on Ice, Jan. 29, Arco Arena.

Britney Spears, April 11, Arco Arena.

Valentine's Super Love Jam, featuring Atlantic Starr, Zapp, Heatwave, the Delfonics, the Originals, others, Feb. 7, Arco Arena.

V101.1 ninth New Year's Eve Jam, featuring Con Funk Shun, Roe Royce and DJ Gino, Dec. 31, Radisson Hotel.

FOR INFORMATION

Call tickets.com at (800) 225-2277 or Ticketmaster at (916) 649-8497. (Arco Arena tickets available only through Ticketmaster.) Community Center Theater at (916) 808-5181, or call individual venues. All tickets subject to service charge.

Bill Cosby will perform Feb. 14 at the Paramount Theatre, Oakland. Tickets go on sale Saturday.

A note on prices: Ticketmaster will no longer provide ticket costs on all shows. Visit www.ticketmaster.com for ticket prices.

ON SALE TODAY

M. Ward, March 5, Palace of Fine Arts, San Francisco.

ON SALE SATURDAY

Bill Cosby, Feb. 14, Paramount Theatre, Oakland.

Andre Rieu, April 29, Arco Arena.

Valentine's Super Love Jam, featuring Atlantic Starr, Zapp, Heatwave, the Delfonics, the Originals, others, Feb. 7, Arco Arena.

ON SALE SUNDAY

Voices of Latin Rock, Jan. 24, The Warfield, San Francisco.

ON SALE MONDAY

Celtic Woman – Isle of Hope, Paramount Theatre, Oakland.

ON SALE WEDNESDAY

"Grease," March 24-April 19, Golden Gate Theatre, San Francisco.

CONTINUING

Sandra Bernhard, Jan. 16-17, Herbst Theatre, San Francisco.

Black Comedy Explosion 2008, featuring Mike Epps, Dec. 31, Paramount Theatre, Oakland.

The Black Crowes, Monday- Dec. 20, The Fillmore, San Francisco, $49.50.

Blondie, Feb. 25, The Fillmore, San Francisco.

Brian Setzer Orchestra, Dec. 21, The Warfield, San Francisco.

Sarah Brightman, Tuesday, Arco Arena, $47.75-$197.75.

Broadway Sacramento's 2008-09 season series, featuring "Stomp," Dec. 26-Jan. 4; Community Center Theater; $16.50-$69.

California Musical Theatre's "Forever Plaid," through Feb. 1, Cosmopolitan Cabaret, $32-$57.

The Cheetah Girls, Wednesday, Oracle Arena, Oakland.

George Clinton, Parliament, Dec. 31, The Warfield, San Francisco.

Disney's High School Musical – The Ice Tour, Feb. 11-16, Arco Arena.

Bill Engvall, Jan. 23, Bob Hope Theatre, Stockton, $34.25, $49.25.

Harlem Globetrotters, Jan. 19, Arco Arena.

Chelsea Handler, May 2, San Jose Center for the Performing Arts, San Jose.

Mickey Joseph, Feb. 5, Jackson Rancheria Casino and Hotel, Jackson.

Labelle, Jan. 30, Paramount Theatre, Oakland.

Lil Wayne, Dec. 23, Oracle Arena, Oakland.

Metallica, Dec. 20, Oracle Arena, Oakland.

Dropkick Murphys, Feb. 21, The Warfield, San Francisco.

Nine Inch Nails, today, Arco Arena.

Larry Omaha, Jan. 8, Jackson Rancheria Casino and Hotel, Jackson.

PBR: Professional Bull Riders, Jan. 17-18, Arco Arena.

"The Phantom of the Opera," through Jan. 4, Orpheum Theatre, San Francisco.

Smokey Robinson, Jan. 24, Paramount Theatre, Oakland.

Sacramento Opera's 2008-09 series, featuring "The Marriage of Figaro," Feb. 27, March 1, 3; "La Bohème," May 8, 10, 12; Community Center Theater, $15-$115.

Ron Shock, March 5, Jackson Rancheria Casino and Hotel, Jackson.

Slipknot, March 11, Arco Arena.

Smuckers Stars on Ice, Jan. 29, Arco Arena.

Britney Spears, April 11, Arco Arena.

V101.1 ninth New Year's Eve Jam, featuring Con Funk Shun, Roe Royce and DJ Gino, Dec. 31, Radisson Hotel.

"Wicked," Jan. 27-June 27, Orpheum Theatre, San Francisco.

FOR INFORMATION

Call tickets.com at (800) 225-2277 or Ticketmaster at (916) 649-8497. (Arco Arena tickets available only through Ticketmaster.) Community Center Theater at (916) 808-5181, or call individual venues. All tickets subject to service charge.

ALL WEEKEND

Holiday concert

A Winter Spectacular

What: The Sierra Community Chorus' annual concert series takes a fresh approach to such timeless holiday classics as "Silent Night" and "The First Noel." The chorus consists of 60 singers, led by director and tenor soloist Lorin Miller. Concerts continue through Dec. 19.

When: 7:30 tonight, 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday

Where: Dietrich Theatre, 5000 Rocklin Road, Rocklin

Cost: $16-$24

Information: (800) 838-3006 or www.sierrachorus.org

TODAY

Music fundraiser

Sixth annual Loaves & Fishes Holiday Show

What: This popular holiday benefit concert features more than seven local bands and musicians. Attendees can donate "wish list" items or make cash contributions, and proceeds directly support the Loaves & Fishes homeless shelter. The lineup includes Ross Hammond, the Inversions and more.

When: 7 p.m.

Where: The Fifth String, 930 Alhambra Blvd., Sacramento

Cost: $15 minimum donation or donated item from Loaves & Fishes "Wish List"

Information: (916) 442-8282

TODAY

Live music

Nine Inch Nails

What: The czar of modern industrial rock, Trent Reznor finally brings his otherworldly live act to Sacramento for one electric night of distortion, dissonance and the larger-than-life visual artistry that makes any NIN show a must-see performance.

When: 8 p.m.

Where: Arco Arena, Sacramento

Cost: $37.75-$57.75

Information: (916) 928-6900 or www.ticketmaster.com

TODAY

Comedy

Coexist? Comedy Tour

What: The Coexist? Comedy Tour has roots in Sacramento, and in one year, this motley crew of comedians has taken its hilarious approach to interfaith dialogue across the country. Come see for yourself what happens when an atheist, a Hindu, a Christian, a Muslim and a Buddhist walk into a bar …

When: 8 p.m.

Where: Crest Theatre, 1013 K St., Sacramento

Cost: $25 (ages 18 and over)

Information: (916) 442-7378 or www.thecrest.com

TODAY

Poetry

Second Friday Poetry Reading

What: Get a head start on the Second Saturday art blitz by reconnecting with your inner poet. The Sacramento Poetry Center presents this family-friendly reading of works by artists including Joyce Odam, Katy Brown and Pablo Neruda translator William O'Daly.

When: 7-9 p.m.

Where: Sacramento Poetry Center, 1719 25th St., Sacramento

Cost: Free

Information: (916) 979-9706 or www.sacramento poetrycenter.org

SATURDAY

Roller derby

Red Red Holiday III

What: Sacramento's own Sac City Rollers host skaters from 23 California roller derby leagues at this event, which benefits the Sacramento Food Bank and Family Services.

When: 5:30-9:30 p.m.

Where: Davis Indoor Sports Center, 2801 Second St., Davis

Cost: $15 advance, $20 at door; free for kids under 12

Information: www.saccityrollers.com

SATURDAY

Author lecture

Why Mars and Venus Collide

What: Still unsure as to what your wife's "I'm not mad" quip really meant? Dr. John Gray, author of "Men Are From Mars; Women Are From Venus," helps the communications- challenged understand how men and women deal with stress differently.

When: 2-4 p.m.

Where: El Dorado Physical Therapy and Folsom Wellness Center, 990 Riley St., Folsom

Cost: $45 (includes lecture, book and CD). It's intended for ages 18 and over.

Information: (916) 747-0806

Bill Cosby will perform Feb. 14 at the Paramount Theatre, Oakland. Tickets go on sale Saturday.

A note on prices: Ticketmaster will no longer provide ticket costs on all shows. Visit www.ticketmaster.com for ticket prices.

ON SALE TODAY

M. Ward, March 5, Palace of Fine Arts, San Francisco.

ON SALE SATURDAY

Bill Cosby, Feb. 14, Paramount Theatre, Oakland.

Andre Rieu, April 29, Arco Arena.

Valentine's Super Love Jam, featuring Atlantic Starr, Zapp, Heatwave, the Delfonics, the Originals, others, Feb. 7, Arco Arena.

ON SALE SUNDAY

Voices of Latin Rock, Jan. 24, The Warfield, San Francisco.

ON SALE MONDAY

Celtic Woman – Isle of Hope, Paramount Theatre, Oakland.

ON SALE WEDNESDAY

"Grease," March 24-April 19, Golden Gate Theatre, San Francisco.

CONTINUING

Sandra Bernhard, Jan. 16-17, Herbst Theatre, San Francisco.

Black Comedy Explosion 2008, featuring Mike Epps, Dec. 31, Paramount Theatre, Oakland.

The Black Crowes, Monday- Dec. 20, The Fillmore, San Francisco, $49.50.

Blondie, Feb. 25, The Fillmore, San Francisco.

Brian Setzer Orchestra, Dec. 21, The Warfield, San Francisco.

Sarah Brightman, Tuesday, Arco Arena, $47.75-$197.75.

Broadway Sacramento's 2008-09 season series, featuring "Stomp," Dec. 26-Jan. 4; Community Center Theater; $16.50-$69.

California Musical Theatre's "Forever Plaid," through Feb. 1, Cosmopolitan Cabaret, $32-$57.

The Cheetah Girls, Wednesday, Oracle Arena, Oakland.

George Clinton, Parliament, Dec. 31, The Warfield, San Francisco.

Disney's High School Musical – The Ice Tour, Feb. 11-16, Arco Arena.

Bill Engvall, Jan. 23, Bob Hope Theatre, Stockton, $34.25, $49.25.

Harlem Globetrotters, Jan. 19, Arco Arena.

Chelsea Handler, May 2, San Jose Center for the Performing Arts, San Jose.

Mickey Joseph, Feb. 5, Jackson Rancheria Casino and Hotel, Jackson.

Labelle, Jan. 30, Paramount Theatre, Oakland.

Lil Wayne, Dec. 23, Oracle Arena, Oakland.

Metallica, Dec. 20, Oracle Arena, Oakland.

Dropkick Murphys, Feb. 21, The Warfield, San Francisco.

Nine Inch Nails, today, Arco Arena.

Larry Omaha, Jan. 8, Jackson Rancheria Casino and Hotel, Jackson.

PBR: Professional Bull Riders, Jan. 17-18, Arco Arena.

"The Phantom of the Opera," through Jan. 4, Orpheum Theatre, San Francisco.

Smokey Robinson, Jan. 24, Paramount Theatre, Oakland.

Sacramento Opera's 2008-09 series, featuring "The Marriage of Figaro," Feb. 27, March 1, 3; "La Bohème," May 8, 10, 12; Community Center Theater, $15-$115.

Ron Shock, March 5, Jackson Rancheria Casino and Hotel, Jackson.

Slipknot, March 11, Arco Arena.

Smuckers Stars on Ice, Jan. 29, Arco Arena.

Britney Spears, April 11, Arco Arena.

V101.1 ninth New Year's Eve Jam, featuring Con Funk Shun, Roe Royce and DJ Gino, Dec. 31, Radisson Hotel.

"Wicked," Jan. 27-June 27, Orpheum Theatre, San Francisco.

FOR INFORMATION

Call tickets.com at (800) 225-2277 or Ticketmaster at (916) 649-8497. (Arco Arena tickets available only through Ticketmaster.) Community Center Theater at (916) 808-5181, or call individual venues. All tickets subject to service charge.