3. Louisville

Tried-and-True Tradition: A Christmas Carol
Actors Theatre, 316 West Main Street
This is the 34th year of this production. The script, slightly updating the classic Dickens, blesses us with 16 added songs, dancing, and actors who play instruments. December 8-27; from $27, kids ages 5-14 pay half-price December 8-16. actorstheatre.org

Becoming a Tradition: Make Your Own Ornament (pictured)
Glassworks, 815 West Market Street
Choose colors, learn the technique of glassblowing from an artisan, and watch molten glass morph into a treasure. Plan to circle back a day later to pick up your finished work. Ages 7 and up by appointment; $40. louisvilleglassworks.com