December 2009

(Metropolitan Room, 34 West 22nd St, New York, NY 10010) (7:00 PM) It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Edd Clark and Sue Matsuki kick off the holiday season by bringing a new version of their annual sell-out Sue & Edd’s FABULOUS Christmas Show to the Metropolitan Room. She’s jazzy and he’s legit; she’s a multi-MAC Award winner and he’s a Bistro Award winner; together they’re returning with their annual show to ring in the holiday season! It’s time to break out the hot toddies, hot chocolate, and cookies! ($20 cover/2 drink minimum) (212-206-0440) eddny@yahoo.com Event Website

(St Augustine Church, 116 6th Avenue, Park Slope, Brooklyn, NY 11215) (7PM) Please join us for our World AIDS Day interfaith prayer servicet at St. Augustine's Roman Catholic Church in Park Slope. There will be music by the Gay Men's Chorus of Manhattan, an inspiring group of choral musicians dedicated to promoting social tolerance and acceptance. Also, on display will be a collection of paintings by Maureen Mullen. Entitled, “Preparation Series,” its a group of paintings created out of the artist’s response to and connection with a loved one as he was taking a spiritual and physical journey through AIDS. Reception to follow the service. (Free) (516 220-7299)

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(Carnegie Hall, 881 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10019) (7:00pm) The Collegiate Chorale, led by Maestro James Bagwell in his inaugural concert as The Chorale’s newly appointed Music Director, presents A JUBILANT SONG, a celebration of the organization’s remarkable history of exceptional conductors, noteworthy commissions and premieres, and multi-faceted choral programming. Tickets are available through CarnegieCharge at 212-247-7800, at the Carnegie Hall Box Office, or online at www.carnegiehall.org. ($25-$125) (646-202-9623) Event Website

(Walkerspace, 46 Walker St., New York, NY 10012) (Thu, Fri, Sat at 10:00pm | Sundays at 7:00pm | Sne) Marley was nude, to begin with. There is no doubt whatever about that. This must be distinctly understood, or nothing wonderful can come of the press release I am going to relate.FILTHY LUCRE: A Burlesque Christmas Carol, Charles Dickens’ immortal classic retold as only Pinchbottom can retell it. ($20) (866-811-4111) pinch@pinchbottom.com Event Website

(Highline Ballroom, 431 West 16th St, New York, NY 10011) (7:30 PM) Stonewall Honors promises to be exceptional event. Assembling a crowd of more than 400 friends, relatives and Foundation supporters to celebrate their achievements. The evening will begin with an elegant cocktail reception and recognition program emceed by Rosalyn Taylor-O’Neale, featuring Ann Northrop and The Honorable Christine Quinn, a past honoree. Then we invite you to join us in a night of dancing featuring the talented DJ Stacy. Stonewall Foundation ($95) Event Website

(Alvin Ailey Studios, 405 West 55th St at 9th Ave, New York, NY 10019) (12/3-5 8PM 12/6 3PM) TREADING PUDDLES explores the obstacles that emerge unexpectedly in life and translates those experiences into an evening of dances by Kathleen Dyer that emphasize the importance of resiliency, patience, and the desire for reinvention. While waiting, dreaming and mourning, we grow with everyday storms. The evening features original music composed by Juilliard Alumna, Cristina Spinei that will be performed live by the Voxare String Quartet. ($20) Event Website

(LGBT Community Center, 208 West 13th St, New York, NY 10011) (6:30pm) Everyone's talking about The High Cost of Being a Gay Couple, the shocking New York Times report that revealed just how much more same-sex partners pay for health, legal, and other costs. New York Times personal finance reporter Tara Siegel Bernard, who co-wrote the piece with Ron Lieber, will speak at a very special Out Professionals event. Gary Gates, Senior Research Fellow at The Williams Institute of the UCLA School of Law will moderate. Gary is the co-author of the Gay and Lesbian Atlas and is widely considered the leading demographer of lesbian/gay America. (OP Members: $10; Non-members: $20) Event Website

(Spirit of New York, Pier 62, Chelsea Piers, New York, NY 10011) (Board at midnight, and sail from 12:30 a.m. – 3 a.m) Head outside to party under the moonlight with Entertainment Cruises, the premier harbor cruise line in the New York and New Jersey area. When the clock strikes midnight, join a trendy gay crowd of all ages and hit the dance floors and move to the DJ’s hot beats on the Spirit of New York’s Men at Midnight Moonlight Cruises. ($26.90) (866.483.3866) Event Website

(The Producer's Club, 358 West 44th Street, New York, NY 10036, 212.315.4743) (Check website for performance time) About 3 generations of non conventional family with a conventional problem on their hands; witty, hilarious and touching comedy, staring MilDRED Gerestant, Nico, Sonya Hemphill, Derek Joyner, Kaz, Byanca Raye, Al-B Merles, and Ronne Hayne. Circle of Voices, Inc. and in celebration of Lavender Light Gospel Choir's 25th year ($34-40) (347-495-7597) mmpinfo@msmistahproductions.com Event Website

(Columbia University, Broadway & 116th St, New York, NY 10027) (6pm) The Obama Administration is committed to developing a National HIV/AIDS Strategy (NHAS) that reduces HIV incidence, increases access to care and improves health outcomes, and reduces HIV-related health disparities. The White House's Office of National AIDS Policy (ONAP), directed by Jeffrey Crowley, is committed to developing the NHAS through a process that includes a broad range of perspectives and stakeholders. To that end, ONAP announced plans to conduct a series of community discussions across the United States that began in August at the CDC HIV Prevention Conference. The final community discussion of 2009 will take place in New York City. Seating will be limited. Individuals interested in attending the community discussion may RSVP online. Event Website

(Christ & St.Stephen Church, 120 W. 69th St., New York, NY 10023) (8.00 PM) Concert Program: L.van Beethoven-The creatures of Prometheus Overture Cond. Stefano Mazzoleni D.Shostakovich-Piano Concerto no.2 Cond.Stefano Mazzoleni Piano Luigi Fracasso L.van Beethoven-Symphony no.6 Pastoral Cond.Giacomo Franci ($25;Students & Seniors $20;Children under 12 free) Event Website

(Julia Miles Theater, 424 West 55th St, New York, NY 10019) (8pm) Youth Pride Chorus engages the voices of LGBTQ, straight, allied youth ages 13-21 in the movement for social change. These fearless young LGBT artists rock the stage with electrifying dance, cutting-edge spoken word, and hit songs. ($20) (212.620.7310) Event Website

(Merkin Concert Hall, 129 West 67th Street, New York, NY 10023) (8PM) Say ¡Hola! to the Holidays, as the nation's first gay and lesbian chorus opens its 33rd season with a journey to Latin America. Sizzling hits, inc. Riu, Riu Chiu, Duerme Negrito, Conrad Susa's Carols & Lullabies, & Ladino Hanukkah favorite Ocho Kandelikas. Cynthia Powell, Artistic Director, with Elaine Christy, harp, Dan Lippel, guitar, Lindsay Haughton, marimba, Barbara Merjan, percussion, Allison Sniffin, keyboards and special guest Alfredo Villela, Aztec percussion ($25. Students/Seniors: $12) (212 501 3330) Event Website

An annual fund-raiser combining the forces of charity and creativity to benefit the national GLBT community known as the Ballroom scene. TGBOE 2 is modeled on Susanne Bartsch’s Love Balls – the Design Industry Foundation Fighting Aids fund-raisers in 1989 and 1991 that brought together the fashion and Ballroom worlds to raise millions for HIV/AIDS. Donations will be made to the House of Blahnik Scholarship Fund, a higher education assistance program for college-bound Ballroom participants. ($150+) (212-368-2470) Event Website

(LGBT Community Center, 208 West 13th St, New York, NY 10011) (8:00 PM) At this Speed-Dating event, meet lots of guys ages 20s & 30s one-on-one for a series of 3-minute dates, then get a free mingling period to meet anyone else in the room. Tell us which men you want a second date with, and minutes later you find out your matches. This is a great opportunity to meet guys for time-efficient face-to-face contact and see what kind of chemistry is there. It’s a lot of fun and could lead to meeting someone special! ($20) (212-971-1084) qwikdates@yahoo.com Event Website

(Trinity Episcopal Church Asbury Park, 503 Asbury Ave, Asbury Park, NJ 07712) (8:00 PM) The NJGMC turns back the dial to the golden days of radio as we present a live musical holiday celebration. ($20 in advance, $15 student/senior. $25 at the door) (609-396-7774) info@njgmc.org Event Website

(LGBT Community Center, 208 West 13th St, New York, NY 10011) (2 - 4pm) Come join us for readings, reflections and riffs on topics like butch women raising sons, queer youth as parents, trans experiences in fertility clinics, bisexuality and adoption, race relations in the family, heteronormativity in queer family kids' books, class issues within families, dealing with infertility, polyamory and parenting, developments in reproductive technologies, reflections on the meanings of biology and queer parenting - straight (!) from the mouths of experts and the experienced. (Free (donations accepted)) terry@gaycenter.org Event Website

(Stuart Thomas Manor, 2143 Boundary Ave, Farmingdale, NY 11735) (7pm - 1am) A Holiday Extravaganza Celebrating The Proud, Strong and United of the GLBT of Long Island. Cocktail Hour. Hors d'oeuvres. Full Sit-down Dinner. Top Shelf Open Bar. Dancing All Night. Dress to Impress. ($85 Advance Sale Only) (631-225-2726) Event Website

(Queens Pride House, 76-11 37th Ave Suite 206, Jackson Heights, NY 11372) (2:00 PM - 05:00 PM) The New York Bear Den was established to fulfill a void in the New York City Bear Community: Bears are social creatures... Therefore we have created "The New York Bear Den" a hate-free, alcohol-free, attitude-free space to socialize once a month where you can sit back, relax, chat and make friends with woofy guys of all ages, races, types and interests -- only 2 subway stops from Manhattan on the (E) train! Check our website for details! Not-for-profit, Queens Pride House ($5/Volunteers FREE! and a non-alcoholic beverage or snack to share) Event Website

(LGBT Community Center, 208 West 13th St, New York, NY 10011) (6pm Reception and 6:30pm Service begins) Celebrate the Life and Work of Eleanor Cooper, pioneering lesbian activist and leader. Eleanor, who died one year ago at the age of 68, was a founder of Lesbian Feminist Liberation in the early 1970s and of the Coalition for Lesbian and Gay Rights that guided the City’s gay and lesbian rights bill to victory in 1986, and a tireless worker in the women’s and disabled movements.. Come share stories about Eleanor and listen to remembrances of her movement friends and colleagues. Refreshments will be served. (Free) Event Website

(Princeton Unitarian Church, 50 Cherry Hill Road, Princeton, NJ 08540) (4:00PM) The NJGMC turns back the dial to the golden days of radio as we present a live musical holiday celebration. ($20 in advance, $15 student/senior. $25 at the door) (609-396-7774) info@njgmc.org Event Website

(LGBT Community Center, 208 West 13th St, New York, NY 10011) (7 - 10pm) Join over 150 friends both old and new, as we celebrate Chanukah with music, dancing, drinking and holiday treats! Light your inner menorah, be inspired, and make some new friends this holiday! This event is open to the entire LGBT Jewish community along with their friends. ($10) eharari2@gmail.com Event Website

(LGBT Community Center, 208 West 13th St, New York, NY 10011) (7:30 - 10pm) Before Harvey Milk... Before Stonewall... There was Harry Hay. Communist Party member... Mattachine Society founder... Defendant at the 1950's HUAC Trials… Harry Hay’s personal life was as explosive and passionate as the cause and community for which he fought. A brilliant yet troubled man plagued by fear but fearless in his dedication to the Gay Rights Movement. Reading of a new play by Rob Rosiello with Director Sharon Lennon featuring Jim Halloran as Harry Hay; discussion about Harry Hay to follow reading with special guest panelists. (FREE) HarryHay2010@gmail.com Event Website

(LGBT Community Center, 208 West 13th St, New York, NY 10011) (6:30pm) A film screening and discussion with Richard Berkowitz, who tells his harrowing story of the embattled early days of the AIDS epidemic. As a gay hustler-turned-AIDS activist, Berkowitz vividly recalls the fight to save the lives of gay men by conceptualizing the precautions that would later be named "safe sex." As common and accepted as these practices are today, the notion that gay sex was unsafe ignited a firestorm of controversy among gay men of the time who railed against the homophobia of such an argument. He persevered in his quest to raise public awareness and partnered with musician Michael Callen to write the first safe sex manual for gay men (How to Have Sex in an Epidemic), an effort that earned them scorn for its call for condom use and an end to the promiscuity that spread AIDS. ($10) Event Website

(Comix, 353 west 14th street, New York, NY 10014) (9 PM) Find out why Dykes on Mics was named one of the top lesbian theatre events in the country in the December 2009 issue of Curve Magazine! Dykes on Week has sold out shows across the Northeast and their NYC show has been billed as a “best bet” for comedy in Time Out New York. The show features two hilarious New York based comedians: Leah Dubie (HERE TV) and Amy Beckerman (MTV). The ladies have performed at Provincetown’s Women’s in Time Out New York. Recently, the group was featured in the LOGO documentary “Out In the City.” (1 item min) Event Website

(Duplex, 61 Christopher St, New York, NY 10014) (9:30pm) KeyMedia Public Relations and Amy Beckerman Productions are proud to present an intimate night of laughter and music featuring three generations of females who just happen to have been brought up Jewish. Standup comics Amy Beckerman (MTV, Soprano’s) and Robin Fox (WE, XM and Sirius Radio) will deliver the laughs, and rising pop vocalist Rachel Millman will bring the music. ($10 + 2 drink min) droyal@keymediapublicrelations.com Event Website

(LGBT Community Center, 208 West 13th St, New York, NY 10011) (6:30-9:00PM) Join the Census Bureau and Williams Institute Fellow Gary Gates, co-author of The Gay and Lesbian Atlas, for a presentation and discussion of the Census and the LGBT community. Dr. Gates is widely recognized as the nation’s leading expert on the demography and geography of the LGBT population. The discussion will explore why the upcoming Census is so important to the LGBT community, and how you can help make sure we get an accurate count. Dr. Gates, along with LGBT experts from the Census Bureau and community leaders, will answer your questions during a panel discussion following the presentation. (FREE) ((201) 927-0685) rebecca.a.palmer@census.gov Event Website

(Hunter College, Sportsplex B3 Gym, Lexington Ave & 68th St, New York, NY 10065) (See website for performance schedule) Students from: Ballet Academy East, Studio Maestro, The Ailey School and 92nd St Y Harkness Dance Center. The two-act ballet, has been choreographed by Artistic Director, Francis Patrelle. It has set design by Gillian Bradshaw-Smiths, costumes by Rita B. Watson, and lighting by David Grill. The cast will feature special guest artists to be announced later. ($40+) Event Website

(Astraea Foundation, 116 East 16th Street, 7th Floor, New York, NY 10003) (6:00 PM) If you’ll be in New York in December, cap off the year on a high note at the 2009 Holiday Appreciation Party. Hosted in our very own offices in New York City, it will be a fun and intimate evening with fabulous Astraea staff, board, supporters and grantee partners. To RSVP, click here: http://www.astraeafoundation.org/news/142/137/2009-Holiday-Appreciation-Party/d,events/ (None) (212-529-8021) events@astraeafoundation.org Event Website

(CBST, 296 9th Ave, at 28th St, New York, NY 10001) Event Website

(The Quad Cinema, 34 West 13th St, New York, NY 10011) (Daily: 1, 3, 5, 7 & 9pm) One-week run! Sharon Gless (Cagney & Lacey) stars in the passionate lesbian drama Hannah Free, a new film about a lifelong love affair between an independent spirit and the woman she calls home. Hannah and Rachel grew up as little girls in the same small Midwest town, where traditional gender expectations eventually challenge their deep love for one another. Hannah becomes an adventurous, unapologetic lesbian and Rachel a strong but quiet homemaker. Members of the cast, the director and writer are expected to attend the opening night film screenings at 5 & 7 pm, followed by Q&As. (212-255-8800) Event Website

(Astraea Foundation, 116 East 16th Street, 7th Floor, New York, NY 10003) (4:30pm) Meet leaders of Astraea International Fund grantee partners Minority Women in Action (MWA) in Kenya and Labrys in Kyrgyzstan for a roundtable discussion. Learn about the issues first-hand from two lesbian-led organizations working for justice for LGBTIQ communities in East Africa and Central Asia. Following the presentations, explore the issues in a Q&A session, enjoy wine and snacks and mingle with the activists. Speakers: Akinyi M. Ocholla, Chair, Minority Women in Action and Anna Kirey, Co-founder and Senior Advisor, Labrys. (FREE) Event Website

(Patchogue & Port Jefferson, NY) (Sat: 7:30pm; Sun: 4:30pm) This year's theme is “Of Life, Love and Wings”. ($25 advance; $30 at the door) Event Website

(The Duplex, 61 Christopher Street, NYC, NY 10014) (9:30 PM) The Meeting* is a monthly comedy/variety show for homosexuals and their friends. A "gay" romp through politics, sexual and otherwise, social news, music, skits, and other important life changing information. Produced by Adam J. Rosen & Rudy Scala, The Meeting* returns to The Duplex Cabaret Theatre with host Justin Sayre and special guest Molly Pope. ($5 cover plus a two drink minimum) Event Website

(LGBT Community Center, 208 West 13th St, New York, NY 10011) (6 - 10pm) There will be dancing, a dj and many friendly, queer boys and girls. If you’ve ever been curious about non-monogamy, this is a great way to meet new people and get involved. Proceeds benefit services provided by Polyamorous NYC in order to raise awareness about multiple partner relationships. (Admission price varies.) (212.543.9494) info@Poly-NYC.com Event Website

(Cathedral of St. John the Divine, 112th St & Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10025) (8PM) Celebrate the joy of the solstice with Paul Winter Consort, Dmitri Pokrovsky Ensemble, Forces of Nature Dance Theatre Ensemble & Special Guests. ($30, 50 & 80) Event Website

(Private Home in Manhattan) (8 - 11pm) Celebrate the Ali Forney Center Annual Holiday Benefit! Cocktails, hors d'oeuvres and performances! Hosted by Linda Simpson! To benefit Ali Forney Center. ($75+) Event Website

(LGBT Community Center, 208 West 13th St, New York, NY 10011) (6pm) Join Lesbian Cinema Arts for STEAM. This movie is sure to bring you warmth on a cold December night. This terrific new drama unfolds the stories of three amazing and very different women - a divorced Mom, an elderly widow and a young lesbian coming out and falling in love - whose paths cross in a steam room, where they're hoping to melt their troubles away. ($10 at the door; $8 online) Event Website

(LGBT Community Center, 208 West 13th St, New York, NY 10011) (7pm) Join the Center and Lady Clover Honey for Bingo! Jackpot prize $500. Don't let the cold keep you away. Lady Honey has cash with your name on it. (Advance: $12; Door: $15; Tables of 10 available for $100) Event Website

(Suffolk Community College & Adelphi University, Long Island, NY) (8pm) A wide variety of "night" themed material, including some fun numbers and, of course, holiday favorites. ($20) Event Website

(JCC in Manhattan, 334 Amsterdam Ave at 76th St, New York, NY 10023, 646-505-4444) (7PM) Join hundreds of GLBT Jews, partners, and allies for a community-wide Shabbat dinner, sponsored by Nehirim, Congregation Beth Simchat Torah, the JCC in Manhattan, He'Bro, and other cosponsoring organizations, coinciding with the 8th night of Chanukah. The dinner, strictly kosher and catered by the Village Crown, will bring 200 GLBT Jews, partners, and allies together for an evening of fun, food, and free drinks. ($25/45) Event Website

(The National Black Theatre, 2031-33 125th St & 5th Ave, Harlem, NY 10035) (7:30pm) 6 Friends, 30 Days, 1 Goal - to come out to their families! Easier said then done when dealing with homophobia, hate crimes, high profiles careers, religion and children within the African American/ POC community. See how this groundbreaking DRAMEDY Narrative Feature unfolds. ($10 adv; $12 door) Event Website

(Brooklyn Lyceum Theater, 227 4th Ave, New York, NY 11215) (11am - 7pm) Handcrafted merchandise to fit any budget, size and taste. Art, hats, tees, jewelry, soaps, pillows, plush toys, greeting cards, ceramics, sweet treats, stocking stuffers, clocks, household goods, and all manner of gadgets and gizmos from beautiful to whimsical. (FREE) Event Website

(West Chelsea Arts Building, 526 West 26th St. (10th & 11th Ave.), New York, NY 10001) (1:00 PM - 3:30 PM) Visit 7 exhibits of cutting-edge painting, sculpture, electronic media & photography, some by gay & lesbian artists and others of interest to a queer sensibility, led by a former gay studies professor and art critic for the New York Blade. While you’re there, socialize with arts-oriented gay men & lesbians! ($20) (212-946-1548) nygallerytours@yahoo.com Event Website

(Queens Theatre in the Park, Flushing Meadows Corona Park, Queens, NY 11368, 718-760-0064) (Sa 2 & 8PM, Su 3PM) This season the Company begins celebrating Paul Taylor’s 80th birthday. Bringing the celebration to Queens Theatre in the Park, PTDC invites you to join members of the Company for a post performance discussion to learn about the style, energy and technique behind the master himself. ($41-44) Event Website

(Alexander Gray Associates, 526 West 26 St, Suite 1019) (Art Preview: 12 - 1pm; General Entry: 1 - 4pm) Raffle of original artworks by more than 80 artists Every raffle ticket holder goes home with an original work of art. Emcees & Mistresses of Ceremonies are Moe Angelos & MilDred Come to view the art, drink bubbly, & have some holiday treats! Proceeds from the Art Benefit will go to the Archive's endowment fund helping to ensure the Archives' continued growth. (Raffle tickets: $100; Non-raffle holders asked to donate $25 at the door) Event Website

(LGBT Community Center, 208 West 13th St, New York, NY 10011) (1 - 4pm) Come celebrate the spirit of the holidays with our family community, as we have for 20 years, to reminisce and make more memories as we head into the next generation! Bring photos of your “babies” - even if they're 25 years old by now! Please take a minute and send a memory to be posted in the “Memory Lane” for others to see. Activities for the kids, as well as music and food of the season. (FREE; Registration encouraged) (212-620-7310) Event Website

(Church of St. Ann and the Holy Trinity, 157 Montague Street, Brooklyn, NY 11201) (4pm) Beautifully nuanced, uniquely American masterpieces, including one work that was commissioned especially for the Empire City Men’s Chorus, will be performed along with the beautiful Messe “Cum Jubilo” of Maurice Duruflé. The concert features organist Paolo Bordignon (Julliard) (www.paolobordignon.com), and award-winning mezzo soprano Rosalie Grace Sullivan. ($30 at door; $25 online; $15 Seniors-Students-Online) (212-545-4110) Event Website

(Banya, 602 Coney Island Ave bet Beverley Rd & Ave C, Brooklyn, NY 11218) (7pm-2am) Break out your bikini or swim trunks, and join 100 artsy, funky (and nearly naked) New Yorkers for a steamy dance night at a real Russian Banya. We'll have the newly remodeled & sparkling clean baths to ourselves, with every steam room and sauna ready to please, plus a few hand-picked professionals on hand for the optional platzas and massages. There will be live gypsy Balkan music & DJs, dancing, delicious Russian food, FREE homemade infused vodka and yummy pierogies for all. Plus: jacuzzi and cold plunge pool; poolside dance floor; rooftop smoking deck; hookah lounge, poker and chill out rooms. ($35-85) Event Website

(LGBT Community Center, 208 West 13th St, New York, NY 10011) (9pm - 1am) It’s the holiday season and this dance is gonna make you sparkle. DJ Robbie Leslie is going to get us to usher in the holidays with a fabulous dance party. Special guest performance by Chevonne! ($8 online; $10 at the door) Event Website

(Town Hall, 123 West 43rd, New York, NY 10036) (3 & 8pm) The award-winning New York City Gay Men's Chorus warmly invites you to join us for our festive Holiday show, 'Together at Town Hall.' They've hauled out the holly and the Chorus is in full voice celebrating our 30th year. Over 200 talented singers will be joined by a dazzling array of guest artists from Broadway and beyond. Whether the Chorus is singing the classics, grooving to contemporary pop, belting a show tune or crooning your Holiday favorites, this annual holiday show is always joyful, heartwarming, and full of surprises. Event Website

(Don't Tell Mama, 343 West 46th Street, New York, NY 10036) (5:30PM) "THIS IS A MUST-SEE SHOW!" - Cabaret Hotline "Hector Coris dares to sing about mortality, and easily travels from comedy to pathos, bringing the audience from laughter to tears within the breath of a moment. ‘Life is Wonderful.’ is actually a healing experience.”- Kevin Scott Hall, EDGE New York Through the songs of William Finn, Jason Mraz, My Chemical Romance, Kander & Ebb, Zoe Lewis, Christine Lavin and other contemporary songwriters, Hector explores the musicality of mortality. ($14 cover + 2 drink min.) (212 757 0788) Event Website

(Public Assembly, 70 N. 6th St., Brooklyn, NY 11211) (10 PM) Share the festivities as some of the best in Brooklyn burlesque invite you home for the holidays! Nestled snug in the middle of the holiday season, THE SECRET SANTA SHOW will feature performances by Sweet and Nasty favorites Anita Cookie, Gal Friday and more - all performing numbers chosen by the rest of the cast. "We'll put all the names in a hat, see?" explains host and producer Nasty Canasta. "And then we'll draw names, and tell each other what acts to do. It'll be just like those horrible office party Secret Santa things, except instead of TGI Friday's gift certificates, there'll be gorgeous and talented women getting naked in some truly amazing ways." ($10) Event Website

(LGBT Community Center, 208 West 13th St, New York, NY 10011) (7 - 10pm) Tis a benefit show with a cheeky spin on Dickens’ classic tale, starring Hector Lugo as the infamous La Contessa, dubbed “The Puerto Rican Dame Edna.” The show will feature from Broadway's West Side Story: Isaac Calpito, John Arthur Greene, Michael Rosen; from Mamma Mia!: Ian Paget, Jon-Erik Goldberg, Frankie James Grande; John Wasiniak of The Phantom of the Opera; Scott Westervelt the incomparable “Mitzi Gaymore” and other surprises. (General Admission $25; VIP Tickets $35 (includes Open Bar)) (212-620-7310) yhernandez@gaycenter.org Event Website

(LGBT Community Center, 208 West 13th St, New York, NY 10011) (6 - 9pm) As a thank you for being a Center Member, you are invited to a festive holiday evening including free admission to "La Contessa's Christmas Carol" with a reception beforehand featuring appearances from the show's Broadway cast members, an open bar and hors d'oeuvres! Seating is limited so you must RSVP. Limit two seats per person. (FREE) membership@gaycenter.org Event Website

(Hudson Terrace Rooftop Garden Lounge, 621 West 46th Street, Between 11th & 12th Avenues, New York, NY 10036) (9PM) While Santa is visiting our well-behaved gentile friends, put away the Chinese food, turn off that TV and join your fellow Hebrews for a night of celebration and dancing. Featuring DJ DAVID MARC!

(MCCNY, 446 West 36th St, New York, NY 10018) (7pm) Event Website

(Private home in Westchester, NY) An open invitation to the LGBTQ Community, 18 years and older to some celebrate the holidays with the community through the LPSS "Holiday Connections" Program. The "LGBTQ Family Events" are traditionally a potluck get-together, hosted at the home of a member of the community in Westchester, NY. Whether you come for the day or just for dessert, you are welcome to join in the fun that community can offer. All "Holiday Connections" Events are Multi-Denominational. (A dish and a $5 donation are requested.) (914-514-3220) lambdapeers@aol.com Event Website

(MCCNY, 446 West 36th St, New York, NY 10018) (11am) Event Website

(LGBT Community Center, 208 West 13th St, New York, NY 10011) (12 - 9pm) Kwanzaa is an African American and Pan-African holiday which celebrates family, community and culture from December 26th through January 1st. Come and celebrate the 22nd annual Kwanzaa Celebration with performing artists, drummers, poetry, dance and great food! Vendors fair begins at noon, community celebration from 5 to 7, and the community feast 7:30-9. (FREE) lgbt.kwanzaa.nyc@gmail.com Event Website

(American Museum of Natural History, 175 Central Park West, New York, NY 10023) (12 - 5pm) An all-day celebration honoring the seven African-based principles of Kwanzaa (called Nguzo Saba in Swahili) featuring an international marketplace and performances of song, dance, and spoken word. (Free with Museum admission) Event Website

(Kraine Theatre, 85 East 4th St, New York, NY 10003) (10:30 pm) When Nasty Canasta takes charge of the Holiday Pageant, she decides to celebrate with nudity, using burlesque stars for sexy tributes to the season. But the grinch-like (but legally distinct) "Pinch" (Jonny Porkpie) wants to keep Xmas clean and pure as the virgin snow, and so dresses up as Burlesque Santa and sets out to kidnap each and every performer in Nasty's show. Will The Pinch have a change of heart in time to save Nasty's pageant? Or will Xmas remain forever G-rated? A stocking-stuffer that takes on the holidays as only Pinchbottom can; from behind, "How the Pinch Stole Xmas" is holiday treat full of goodies for all the bad boys and girls. ($15) site@pinchbottom.com Event Website

(The Jewish Museum, 1109 Fifth Ave, New York, NY 10128) (12:30pm - 2:45pm) Metropolitan Klezmer returns to The Jewish Museum Family Day: Xmas for the Rest of Us! Kids enter FREE. Band sets featuring special guests...all included with museum admission (kids free; music with museum admission price) (212-423-3200) Event Website

(Times Square) Every year as the clock nears midnight on December 31st, the eyes of the world turn once more to the dazzling lights and bustling energy of Times Square. Anticipation runs high. New Year's Eve at the symbolic center of New York City has become more than just a celebration - it's a global tradition. The world holds its breath...and cheers as the clocks strike twelve. As the famous New Year's Eve Ball descends from the flagpole atop One Times Square, an estimated one million people in Times Square, millions nationwide and over a billion watching throughout the world are united in bidding a collective farewell to the departing year, and expressing our joy and hope for the year ahead. Event Website

(Central Park @ 72nd Street) (Midnight) Kickoff the New Year with a spectacular fireworks at the Emerald Nuts Midnight Run. With a costume parade, dancing, all the rest, this four-miler is more of a party than a race. Count down the minutes ’til midnight and then count down the miles ’til the finish line. Dancing and the costume contest are at the Central Park Bandshell, just south of the 72nd Street Transverse in Central Park, New York. The closest entrance is at Fifth Avenue and 72nd Street. Event Website

(Meeting at Washington Square Park, under the arch) (10:30PM) Start the year off right -- on your bike or skates! Come celebrate New Year's Eve in the great outdoors. We'll be riding up to Belvedere Castle in the middle of Central Park for the best (and free!) New Year's Eve dance party in town with great music and fireworks! Dress festive--don't forget your noisemakers and party favors--and bring food and drink to share! (FREE) Event Website

(LGBT Community Center, 208 West 13th St, New York, NY 10011) (8pm) Celebrate the fellowship of sober alcoholics as we pass from one year to the next. There will be a 3-speaker meeting followed by DJ Gerard M spinning on the dance floor. Hospitality lounge with a special show at 11pm. ($20) Event Website

(Joe's Pub, 425 Lafayette, New York, NY 10003) (12:30 - 4am) After the ball drops, kick off the new year with Broadway Impact and Joe’s Pub. Raffle of prizes and special guests. ($20) Event Website

(Coney Island Boardwalk, Surf Ave at 19th St, Coney Island, Brooklyn, NY 11229) (12pPM) Join the Coney Island Polar Club for the traditional New Year's Day celebration. Make a donation to Camp Sunshine and receive a free breakfast and all-day admission to the New York Aquarium. Special this year: Polar Bear Club member Strongman Steve Ekstance, who recently pulled a dumptruck by his teeth and dead lifted 1000 lbs. in support of Camp Sunshine, will be appearing on the boardwalk at noon performing similar feats. (Free) (718-356-7741) (FREE) Event Website

(Private home in Westchester, NY) An open invitation to the LGBTQ Community, 18 years and older to some celebrate the holidays with the community through the LPSS "Holiday Connections" Program. The "LGBTQ Family Events" are traditionally a potluck get-together, hosted at the home of a member of the community in Westchester, NY. Whether you come for the day or just for dessert, you are welcome to join in the fun that community can offer. All "Holiday Connections" Events are Multi-Denominational. (A dish and a $5 donation are requested.) (914-514-3220) lambdapeers@aol.com Event Website